EP2709910A1 - Emballage souple pouvant être refermé et procédés pour sa fabrication - Google Patents

Emballage souple pouvant être refermé et procédés pour sa fabrication

Info

Publication number
EP2709910A1
EP2709910A1 EP12724478.8A EP12724478A EP2709910A1 EP 2709910 A1 EP2709910 A1 EP 2709910A1 EP 12724478 A EP12724478 A EP 12724478A EP 2709910 A1 EP2709910 A1 EP 2709910A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
package
score
flexible film
film
seal
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP12724478.8A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP2709910B1 (fr
Inventor
Deborah A. Lyzenga
Jeffrey Thomas Weber
Louis Peter FENECH III
Leonard Scarola
Rachel Leichte
Marty Golden
Paul E. Doll
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Intercontinental Great Brands LLC
Original Assignee
Intercontinental Great Brands LLC
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Family has litigation
First worldwide family litigation filed litigation Critical https://patents.darts-ip.com/?family=49582476&utm_source=google_patent&utm_medium=platform_link&utm_campaign=public_patent_search&patent=EP2709910(A1) "Global patent litigation dataset” by Darts-ip is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Priority claimed from PCT/US2011/037054 external-priority patent/WO2011146658A1/fr
Priority claimed from US13/300,317 external-priority patent/US9656783B2/en
Application filed by Intercontinental Great Brands LLC filed Critical Intercontinental Great Brands LLC
Priority to PL12724478T priority Critical patent/PL2709910T3/pl
Publication of EP2709910A1 publication Critical patent/EP2709910A1/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2709910B1 publication Critical patent/EP2709910B1/fr
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

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
    • B65D33/00—Details of, or accessories for, sacks or bags
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B23/00—Packaging fragile or shock-sensitive articles other than bottles; Unpacking eggs
    • B65B23/10—Packaging biscuits
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B31—MAKING ARTICLES OF PAPER, CARDBOARD OR MATERIAL WORKED IN A MANNER ANALOGOUS TO PAPER; WORKING PAPER, CARDBOARD OR MATERIAL WORKED IN A MANNER ANALOGOUS TO PAPER
    • B31B—MAKING CONTAINERS OF PAPER, CARDBOARD OR MATERIAL WORKED IN A MANNER ANALOGOUS TO PAPER
    • B31B70/00—Making flexible containers, e.g. envelopes or bags
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B5/00—Packaging individual articles in containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, jars
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B51/00—Devices for, or methods of, sealing or securing package folds or closures; Devices for gathering or twisting wrappers, or necks of bags
    • B65B51/04—Applying separate sealing or securing members, e.g. clips
    • B65B51/06—Applying adhesive tape
    • B65B51/062—Applying adhesive tape to the mouths of bags
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
    • B65B61/02—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for perforating, scoring, slitting, or applying code or date marks on material prior to packaging
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
    • B65B61/18—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for making package-opening or unpacking elements
    • B65B61/182—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for making package-opening or unpacking elements by applying tear-strips or tear-tapes
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
    • B65B61/18—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for making package-opening or unpacking elements
    • B65B61/184—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for making package-opening or unpacking elements by applying tabs over discharge openings, e.g. over discharge openings defined by tear or score lines
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B9/00—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, e.g. liquids or semiliquids, in flat, folded, or tubular webs of flexible sheet material; Subdividing filled flexible tubes to form packages
    • B65B9/06—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, in a longitudinally-folded web, or in a web folded into a tube about the articles or quantities of material placed upon it
    • B65B9/067—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, in a longitudinally-folded web, or in a web folded into a tube about the articles or quantities of material placed upon it the web advancing continuously
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B9/00—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, e.g. liquids or semiliquids, in flat, folded, or tubular webs of flexible sheet material; Subdividing filled flexible tubes to form packages
    • B65B9/06—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, in a longitudinally-folded web, or in a web folded into a tube about the articles or quantities of material placed upon it
    • B65B9/08—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, in a longitudinally-folded web, or in a web folded into a tube about the articles or quantities of material placed upon it in a web folded and sealed transversely to form pockets which are subsequently filled and then closed by sealing
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B9/00—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, e.g. liquids or semiliquids, in flat, folded, or tubular webs of flexible sheet material; Subdividing filled flexible tubes to form packages
    • B65B9/10—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, in preformed tubular webs, or in webs formed into tubes around filling nozzles, e.g. extruded tubular webs
    • B65B9/20—Enclosing successive articles, or quantities of material, in preformed tubular webs, or in webs formed into tubes around filling nozzles, e.g. extruded tubular webs the webs being formed into tubes in situ around the filling nozzles
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
    • B65D75/5827—Tear-lines provided in a wall portion
    • B65D75/5833—Tear-lines provided in a wall portion for tearing out a portion of the wall
    • B65D75/5838—Tear-lines provided in a wall portion for tearing out a portion of the wall combined with separate fixed tearing means, e.g. tabs
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B31—MAKING ARTICLES OF PAPER, CARDBOARD OR MATERIAL WORKED IN A MANNER ANALOGOUS TO PAPER; WORKING PAPER, CARDBOARD OR MATERIAL WORKED IN A MANNER ANALOGOUS TO PAPER
    • B31B—MAKING CONTAINERS OF PAPER, CARDBOARD OR MATERIAL WORKED IN A MANNER ANALOGOUS TO PAPER
    • B31B2160/00—Shape of flexible containers
    • B31B2160/30—Shape of flexible containers pointed or tapered
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00—Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/15—Sheet, web, or layer weakened to permit separation through thickness

Definitions

  • This disclosure relates generally to flexible packaging and, in particular, to flexible packaging having a reclosable opening
  • Flexible films can provide a lightweight package with a substantially hermetic seal for shipping and storage of a variety of food products, including, for example, crackers, chewing gum, chocolate, cookies, cheese, sandwiches, biscuits, candy, meat products, and dried fruits and vegetables. Some of these flexible film packages also may contain structural supports, such as a frame or tray.
  • Flow-wrap packages may employ a continuous film or web to envelop a product during assembly or formation of the package.
  • Flow-wrap packages may include, for example, horizontal or vertical fin seal or lap seal packages, end seal wrap, horizontal bagging and pillow-pouch packaging.
  • flow- wrap packaging positions a flexible film (such as polyethylene, polyethylene terephihalate (PET) or polypropylene), adjacent a product, wraps the film around the product, forms a seal from the ends or edges of the film, and then forms seals at either end of die product.
  • PET polyethylene terephihalate
  • These seals may be permanent and also may provide some structural integrity.
  • Flexible film packages have other advantages. For example, they can be manufactured at substantially lower cost than rigid containers, are lightweight (resulting in lower transportation costs), and can reduce space required for storage.
  • a reclose feature may be included to provide users with an easy, efficient manner of preserving some of the food product for a later time.
  • the reclose feature may provide a partial barrier to moisture and gas resulting in a pariially hermetic seal, though it may not provide a complete hermetic seal, and may help to retain the shelf-life or freshness of a food product contained within the package.
  • manufacture of some flexible packages is the common requirement of precisely calibrated manufacturing equipment.
  • packages and processes that employ a pattern-applied adhesive may require specialized equipment that may need to be properly calibrated.
  • some laminate structures may employ partial depth die cuts from both the interior and exterior surface of the laminate structure, which increases the complexity of the equipment, These processes also may require very precise registration of the package elements to ensure the consumer is able to easily and reliably open the package and also to ensure proper closure or sealing of the flexible package.
  • FIG. 1 is a plan view of a section of a series of flexible, film package blanks
  • FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the laminate structure of the flexible film package blanks of FIG. 1 along line 2-2;
  • FIG, 3 is another configuration of the laminate structure
  • FIG. 4 is a flexible film package formed of one of the flexible film package blanks of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 5 is the flexible film package of FIG. 4 in a partially open configuration
  • FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the flexible film package of FIG. 4 along line 6-6;
  • FIG, 7 is a cross sectional view of the flexible film package of FIG. 4 along line 7-7;
  • FIG, 8 is a plan view of a section of another series of flexible film package blanks
  • FIG. 9 is a plan view of another flexible film package
  • FIG. 10A is a plan view of a section of another series of flexible film package blanks
  • FIG. 10B is a plan view of a section of another series of flexible film package blanks
  • FIG. 11 is a plan view of a section of another series of flexible film package blanks
  • FIG, 12 is a flexible film package formed of one of the flexible film package blanks of FIG. I I ;
  • FIG. 13 is the flexible film package of FIG. 12 in a partially open configuration
  • FIG. 14 is a side view of another flexible film package
  • FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of the package of FIG. 14 in a closed configuration
  • FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view of the package of FIG, 14 in an open configuration
  • FIG. 17 is a schematic illustration of a manner of forming the package of FIG. 14;
  • FIG. 18 is a plan view of a section of another series of flexible film package blanks
  • FIG. 19 is a flexible film package formed of one of the flexible film package blanks of FIG. 18;
  • FIG. 20 is a portion of the flexible film package of FIG. 1 in a partially open configuration
  • FIG. 21 is a plan view of another flexible film package blank;
  • FIG. 22A is a plan view of another flexible film package blank;
  • FIG. 22B is a side view of a flexible film package;
  • FIG. 22C is a side view of d e flexible film package of FIG. 22B in an open configuration
  • FIG. 22D is a plan view of another flexible film package blank;
  • FIG. 23 is a schematic view of a process of applying a closure layer to a flexible film;
  • FIG. 24 is a cross sectional view of the laminate structure of the flexible film of FIG. 23;
  • FIG. 25 is a cross sectional view of another laminate structure
  • FIG. 26 is a schematic view of another process of applying a closure layer to a flexible film
  • FIG. 27 is a schematic side view of an off-line process of forming a series of flexible film package blanks
  • FIG. 28 is a schematic side view of an in-line process of forming a series of flexible film packages
  • FIG. 29 is a side view of another configuration of a flexible film package
  • F!G. 30 is the flexible film package of FIG. 29 in a partially open configuration
  • FIG. 31 is a perspective view of another flexible film package
  • FIG. 32 is a perspective view of another flexible film package
  • FIG. 33 is a perspective view of another flexible film package
  • FIG. 34 is a perspective view of another flexible film package
  • FIGS, 35 to 38 are perspective views of the flexible film packages of FIGS. 31 to 34, respectively, in open configurations;
  • FIGS. 39 and 40 are perspective views of die flexible film packages of FIGS. 3 and 32 in a continuous flow-wrap configuration illustrated without the label applied and prior to separation into individual packages;
  • FIGS. 41 and 42 are perspective views of the flexible film packages of FIGS. 31 and 32 irs a continuous flow-wrap configuration after formation of end seals and application of the label;
  • FIG, 43 is a plan view of a series of scored film packages subsequent to formation of end seals with a seal jaw;
  • FIG. 44 is a schematic side view of a process for forming flexible film packages with a continuous closure label;
  • FiG. 45 is a schematic cross sectional view of a seal jaw taken along section line A-A of FIG. 44;
  • FiG, 46 is a top view of another flexible film package
  • FIGS. 47 to 49 are perspective views of flexible film packages
  • FIG. 50 is a top view of another flexible film package:
  • FIG. 51 is a perspective view of anotlier flexible film package
  • FIGS. 52 to 56 are film score patterns for flexible film packages
  • FIG. 57 is a perspective view of a flexible film package in an unopened configuration
  • FIG, 58 is a perspective view of the flexible film package of FIG, 57 in an opened configuration
  • FIG. 59 is a perspective view of anotlier flexible film package in a resealed or reclosed configuration
  • FIG, 60 is a schematic side view of a process for forming flexible film packages with a scored flexible film and a continuous label
  • FIG. 61 is a schematic cross section of a fin seal jaw
  • FIG. 62 is a perspective view of another flexible film package in a partially open configuration
  • FIGS. 63 to 68 are perspective views of flexible film packages i closed configurations
  • FIG. 69 is a perspective view of a flexible film package in a partially open
  • FIGS. 70 to 79 are additional exemplary tab portion configurations (package separation cut) for flexible film packages
  • FIGS. 80 to 98 are exemplary film perimeter score patterns for flexible film packages;
  • FIGS. 99 to 144 are exemplary film lines of weakness score patterns (e.g., trailing end of the tab) for flexible film packages;
  • FIGS. 145 to 151 are plan views of exemplary flexible film package with perimeter and lines of weakness score pattern combinations
  • FIGS. 152 to 160 are plan views of a series of front pane! sections for flexible film packages
  • FIGS. 161 to 189 are additional film score patterns for flexible film packages
  • FIGS. 190 is a perspective view of an exemplary gusseted vertical formed flexible film package
  • FIG. 191 is a plan view of an exemplary vertical formed flexible film package
  • FIG. 192 is a plan view of another exemplary gusseted vertical formed flexible film package
  • FIG. 193 is a plan view of another exemplary vertical formed flexible film package
  • FIG. 194 is a plan view of another exemplary gusseted vertical formed flexible film package
  • FIG. 195 is a plan view of another exemplary vertical formed flexible film package.
  • FIG. 196 is a plan view of a section of a flexible vertical formed film package blanks.
  • the flexible film packages may have at least a partial, initial seal against ambient atmosphere and are easily openabie and reclosable. More particularly, the initial seal, which is present prior to initial opening of the flexible film package, may provide at least a partial barrier against ambient atmosphere, including gas and moisture, for an extended period of time.
  • the initial seal of the flexible film package may provide a light barrier and also a gas and moisture barrier for at least 6 to 8 months prior to initial opening. In some applications, a gas and moisture barrier may be desired for even longer periods of time prior to initial opening.
  • the flexible film packages are generally reseaiable such that the shelf-life of food products contained therein is not unnecessarily shortened due to exposure to the ambient atmosphere once the flexible film package is initially opened.
  • the flexible film packages may have a resea! feature that provides a reseaiable seal that is present subsequent to initial opening of the package. While the present disclosure is described for food product applications, it also can be applied to non-food, medical,
  • the flexible film package is generally configured to accommodate multiple servings of a food product.
  • the resealing characteristics of the flexible film package help retain freshness or shell-life of the food product remaining within the package subsequent to initial opening.
  • the seals of the flexible film package such as any longitudinal seals including, for example, a fin or lap seal, and any ends seals may be hermetic (and also may have varying degrees of hermeticity, such as partial or substantial hermetic seals) to help retain the shelf-life of any food products contained therein.
  • the seals may be formed by a variety of process such as, for example, hot seal, cold seal, low tack seal such as that employing a low tack adhesive or fastener, sonic waves, and combinations tliereof.
  • Any reseaiable seals of the flexible package, such as that formed around the package opening, may be formed, in part, by a pressure sensitive adhesive located between the flexible film and an the elongated closure layer. This reseaiable seal feature may be formed by a variety of manufacturing processes.
  • the flexible film packages may have a variety of configurations, including, for example, a bag, a pouch, or other shapes such as a cylindrical-shape, a column-shape, or a rectilinear-shape, among others.
  • the flexible film package may have squared edges such as that found on a primarily rectilinear-shaped package, or may have more curvilinear- shaped edges, such as that found on more circular or ovoid-shaped packages.
  • the flexible film package may be formed around the food product, such as a package having a sleeve configuration that is wrapped around a discrete stack or stacks of food products.
  • the flexible film packages may be fully or partially formed and then filled with the food products, which may be helpful for various discrete food products.
  • the various configurations may be easily opened and resealed while maintaining package integrity,
  • the flexible film has two opposing edge portions that meet to form a longitudinal seal extending from a first end seal to a second end seal.
  • the flexible film may have a score that defines a package opening upon initial rupture or initial opening, in one illustrative embodiment, an elongated closure layer extends over the score and extends from the first end seal (or to the first package end) to the second end seal (or second package end) and within the opposing edge portions that meet to form the longitudinal seal.
  • a pressure sensitive adhesive may be located between the flexible film and the elongated closure layer.
  • the elongated closure layer may have a tack-free gripping portion used to release at least a portion of the elongated closure from the flexible film to form the package opening.
  • the package configuration and shape may be primarily influenced by the products contained within the package, in pan, due to the flexibility of the laminate film, in another configuration, the flexible film may he configured as a flow-wrap or overwrap around a support structure, such as an internal rigid support or product tray.
  • the method for producing the flexible film packages provided herein may include forming a score in a portion of a continuous web of flexible film having a longitudinal axis and applying a continuous closure layer along the longitudinal axis with a pressure sensitive adhesive.
  • the continuous closure layer may be applied over a partial width of the continuous web of flexible film.
  • the method also may include forming a continuous longitudinal seal from two opposing edges of the continuous web of flexible material and forming a first end seal and a second end seal, in one approach, an adhesive-free grasping portion may be formed at a first end of the flexible package.
  • the flexible package material may be converted into one package blank off-line or in-line with the packaging processes and also may be formed in both horizontal and vertical form-fill-seal operations, among others.
  • a method of packaging products in a series of packages may include feeding a continuous film web having longitudinal edges and a predetermined width between the longitudinal edges.
  • the method also may include merging a continuous substrate with the continuous film web across less than die entire predetermined width,
  • die continuous film web is scored to define an opening in the film web upon initial opening once the substrate is removed from the continuous film web and an adhesive, such as a pressure sensitive adhesive that provides a degree of releaseability and resealablity, is provided between the continuous substrate and the continuous film web.
  • an adhesive such as a pressure sensitive adhesive that provides a degree of releaseability and resealablity
  • the mediod may provide products in a series for packaging, and the continuous film web and substrate may be wrapped around the products.
  • a longitudinal seal such as a fin or lap seal, may be provided along the longitudinal edges of the continuous film web, and leading and trailing end seals may be provided between adjacent packages of the series of packages.
  • the method of manufacturing resealabie flexible film packages includes scoring a continuous film to define an opening in a subsequently formed individual package; applying a continuous pressure sensitive adhesive label or closure layer to at least cover the score: feeding the film/label combination around the product to envelop the product; forming a longitudinal seal by joining the opposite edges of the film together; forming two substantially transverse end seals; and scoring peel tabs in a unsealed film area distal to an end seals.
  • the series of flexible packages may be formed in-line just before the film is being wrapped around a product or may be formed off-line well before the products are packaged.
  • a laminate structure may be prepared prior to being brought to the packaging line to fill the packages with products.
  • the laminate may be formed in-line with the packaging operation such that the laminate is formed around or just before the product is packaged.
  • the flexible film may be a formed of a thin polymer material.
  • the flexible film may be a flexible sheet of material in a roll or as individual blanks.
  • the flexible film may be, for example, laminated, extruded, cast, blown, or a combination thereof.
  • the flexible film may include a laminate having several thin layers of material
  • the laminate structure may include a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) layer and/or an oriented polypropylene (OPP) layer.
  • PET polyethylene terephthalate
  • OPP oriented polypropylene
  • the flexible film may be a combination of several of the above-mentioned film structures.
  • the flexible film may include a single layer (mono-web) polymer, if a single layer polymer is employed, the film may include, for example, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, nylon, or oriented polypropylene.
  • the flexible film also may include a mono- web with a sealant thereon.
  • the components of the flexible film laminate may be joined by adhesives or by extrusion processes.
  • the PET layer may impact the rigidity of the laminate. More particularly, the PET layer may have different degrees of stiffness from flexible to semi-rigid, depending on the thickness of the PET layer.
  • a PET layer may be incorporated into the laminate because it is relatively lightweight and strong and can have a high transparency if desired.
  • the PET layer also may be useful as an oxygen (gas) and moisture barrier.
  • an OPP layer also may further strengthen the flexible film and also provide a useful barrier to permeability.
  • the flexible film package may include a score that defines a package opening upon initial rupture or initial opening.
  • the term "score” as used herein may describe any type of mechanically-formed or cut score line, a laser-formed score, or any other scoring means that would compromise the integrity of the film (i.e., a line or area of weakness).
  • a score may be disposed partially through the depth of the flexible film, or it may be a die cut through the entire depth of the film. The score also may be formed on either side of the flexible film such that the score may be cut into the exterior or interior surface of the flexible film.
  • the score is made into the flexible film from the interior surface of the flexible film and extends through the flexible film and substantially through the pressure sensitive adhesive, in addition, the score also may be a discontinuous line such as a set of perforations, which also may be either partially through the depth of the flexible film or completely through the entire depth of the flexible film,
  • the elongated closure layer is disposed or continuously applied upon the flexible film over the score such that there are generally no disruptions in the elongated closure layer or portions where the flexible film lacks the elongated closure layer along one axis of the film.
  • the elongated closure layer may comprise a label such as a label with a backing, a release liner or a linerless label.
  • the elongated closure layer may include a second flexible film with pressure sensitive adhesive disposed between the ilexible film and the second flexible film.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may be an interstitial layer to a laminated film structure such that the pressure sensitive adhesive is laminated between the flexible film and the second flexible film layers.
  • the elongated closure layer may comprise a tape that is continuously applied over the flexible film along its longitudinal axis.
  • a linerless label may be similar to tape, a linerless label oftentimes requires additional printing, including, for example, for registration purposes.
  • the elongated closure layer may be applied on both horizontal and vertically formed packages.
  • the continuous closure layer may be transparent, opaque, or optionally printed.
  • the continuous closure layer may include any of a variety of ilexible or semi-rigid polymers, such as, for example, an oriented polypropylene (OPP), including a bi-axial OPP, and a polyethylene terephtha!ate (PET) layer .
  • OPP oriented polypropylene
  • PET polyethylene terephtha!ate
  • the continuous closure layer may have a thickness of about 0.5 to 5.0 mil (50 to 500 gauge; 0.0127 to 0.127 mm).
  • tire continuous closure layer may be about 1.0 to 3.0 mil (100 to 300 gauge; 0.0254 to 0.0762 ram) in thickness.
  • the continuous closure layer may have a thickness of about 2.5 mil. (250 gauge; 0.0635 mm).
  • PET may be desirable because of its thermal resistance in creating non-peelable seals.
  • the elongated closure layer may be a continuous strip of material continuously applied to the flexible film without disruption, it is noted that in some configurations, the label may be more of a discrete-type label, as described below in other embodiments.
  • the continuous closure layer may be applied to cover at least the score line. Further, the continuous closure layer preferably extends beyond the score line to provide sufficient marginal region around Che score to effectively reseal the package opening once the score has been initially opened or raptured.
  • the package opening is preferably resealable such that at least a partial hermetic seal is obtained around the opening (in some configurations the resealable opening is substantially hermetic).
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive between the flexible film and the elongated closure layer helps produce the reseaiing characteristics of the package opening.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive is preferably neutral or non-reactive to the product to be packaged.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may include, for example, a cold formed adhesive, a hot melt adhesive, a cold seal adhesive, a natural or synthetic latex adhesive, a low tack adhesive, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), an acrylic adhesive (such as a water-based or solvent acrylic adhesive), a styrene block copolymer adhesive, a butyl rubber adhesive, a silicone rubber adhesive, a natural rubber adhesive, a nitriles adhesive, an acrylic emulsion adhesive, and combinations thereof.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may be extruded, coextruded, printed, or combinations thereof.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive is an acrylic water-based adhesive.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may be a variety of thicknesses.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may be about 0,5 to 1.5 mil (50 to 150 gauge; 0,0127 to 0.0381 mm) in thickness.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may be suitable for reseahng in a variety of conditions, such as ambient and refrigerated conditions, to note but a few.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may provide a substantially hermetic seal even under refrigerated conditions (i.e., the pressure sensitive adhesive can be operable in a temperature range of about -10 to 90 degrees Celsius; and preferably in the range of about 2 to 7 degrees Celsius).
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may be applied directly to the film but also may be applied to ink or another coating on the film. By one approach, the pressure sensitive adhesive remains attached to the continuous closure layer, even after the closure layer is repeatedly opened and reclosed.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive is a low tack adhesive or fastener. Optional low tack adhesives or fasteners are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No.
  • the low tack adhesive may include a variety of suitable materials exhibiting a relatively low tack to undesired surfaces but, at the same time, still exhibits a good bond strengdi to desired surfaces (such as not delaminating from the flexible film), and a relatively good cohesive or self adhesive bond strength to like surfaces to hold a flexible package or pouch closed, but still permit the package to be openable or peelabie by hand.
  • a low tack adhesive is employed with the package, it is anticipated that the pressure sensitive adhesive may be adhered to either the closure layer, the film, or both, once the closure layer is pulled upward or away from the film and the package is open, In one illustrative embodiment, a portion of the low tack adhesive (PSA) remains adhered to the film and another portion of the low tack adhesive (PSA) remains adhered to the continuous closure layer during opening of the package.
  • PSA low tack adhesive
  • the initial seal of the package (prior to opening) also may be substantially hermetic (e.g., provide a gas and moisture barrier) for extended periods of time.
  • the initial seal may be created by the package end seals or longitudinal seal, along with the continuous closure layer and pressure sensitive adhesive laminated above the score, which subsequently defines a package opening.
  • a resealable flexible film package includes a scored film with edges that are longitudinally sealed to form a sleeve.
  • a first package or sleeve end seal is disposed substantially transverse io the longitudinal seal at a first package end.
  • a second package or sleeve end seal is disposed substantially transverse to the longitudinal seal at a second package end.
  • the first and second end seals can be optionally peelable or non-peelable.
  • a peelable seal is one where the sealant layers may separate from one another, and a non-peelable seal includes a sealant that bonds such that the sealant layers do not separate, i.e., a destructive seal.
  • the film between the first and second end seals defines a package interior.
  • the flexible film has a label or other continuous closure layer continuously disposed over the score of the film and along a longitudinal axis of the package with a pressure sensitive adhesive.
  • the label can be employed to reclose or reseal the package as contents are removed from the package.
  • the film may be roiled or twisted to compress the package, and then, the label may be applied thereover to reclose or reseal the package.
  • the package size may then be roiled or twisted to reduce the packag size to the amount of content remaining in the package.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive has a peel strength between the film and the label that is greater than a force required to separate sides of the score.
  • the label may extend beyond the score line sufficiently enough to reseal the package with the pressure sensitive adhesive disposed between the label and the film.
  • a score may be disposed generally longitudinally from the first package end to the second package end.
  • the score may be straight, arcuate, or a combination thereof.
  • the score may include shapes such as a "T" shape, a teardrop, and a circle, to note but a few.
  • th score may define an opening at or near the first package end.
  • the score line forms a loop between the end seals.
  • die score may begin at an outer edge of Che first end seal and extend rearward, joining to form a single score line, in one configuration, the score line does not extend past the second end seal.
  • the score may extend into and/or through the end seals. Since the seal area may be formed by heat seal bars, the heat employed to form an end or longitudinal seal in the package, also may melt the polymers sufficiently to inhibit any tearing of the score past the heat seal, even if the score extends into the heat seal area prior to forming of the seal.
  • the terminus of the score line adjacen the second package end may be configured to inhibit or prevent further tearing of the film beyond the score line.
  • the end of the score line adjacent the second package end may include configurations having a "J" hook, a double "J” hook, a smile, a shepherd's hook, a teardrop, and a double teardrop (providing a relatively large package opening at either end of the package), among others.
  • the score line includes an opening, such as a teardrop-shaped opening, adjacent the first package end that extends to a single score line running generally longitudinally toward the second package end, which provides an opening to the package interior
  • the score includes an opening, such as a teardrop-shaped opening, adjacent the first package end and two generally straight portions extending therefrom and extending longitudinally down the package.
  • the generally straight portions may be parallel and may be spaced about 5mm or less apart.
  • the score also may include a narrow arcuate section joining the two generally straight portions adjacent the second end.
  • the label extends beyond the first end seal and at least to the leading edge of the package,
  • a second score line or area such as a tab score may be added to the package to define a tab portion such as a tab in the film/label laminate.
  • This second score line or area may be disposed distal and adjacent to the first sleeve end seal
  • multiple second score lines or a score area can be added to assist with proper functioning of the tab portion. The multiple score lines can be added to assist with concerns regarding variations in the registration of the elements.
  • a continuous flexible film web 12 has a width and a longitudinal axis along the length of the packages formed therefrom,
  • An elongated or continuous closure layer 14 is continuously applied along the longitudinal length of the package blanks to a portion of the width of the continuous flexible film web 12.
  • the continuous closure layer 14 may be applied substantially along the entire longitudinal axis of the continuous flexible film web 12.
  • a pressure sensitive adhesive 18 (FIG. 2) is disposed between the continuous flexible film web 12 and the continuous closure layer 14.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive 18, like the continuous closure layer 14, is continuously applied between the continuous flexible film web 12 and the continuous closure layer 14 so that there are no areas between the two layers without the pressure sensitive adhesive.
  • a score 16 is formed in the continuous flexible film web 12 and will subsequently form a package opening when the continuous closure layer 14 is pulled away from the continuous flexible film web .12.
  • the score 16 is formed into the flexible film 12 and may define the package opening 36 once the flexible film package 5 (FIG. 5) is initially opened.
  • the package opening allows a consumer to easily access the product within the package 5.
  • the score 16 may be formed in a variety of operations, including, for example,
  • the score 16 may be formed on the interior or exterior surface of the flexible film. In addition, the score 16 may be disposed partially through the thickness of the flexible film (a partial depth score line) or through the entire flexible film thickness (a full depth score line). In addition, the score 16 may be a variety of widths, as well as depths. The score 16 may be formed before the continuous closure layer 14 is applied to or merged with the flexible film 12 or after the elongated, continuous closure layer 14 is applied to the flexible film 12.
  • the score 16 may be formed through the flexible film 12 (from the interior surface) and into the pressure sensitive adhesive 18. In one approach, the score 16 may be formed through the flexible film 12, the pressure sensitive adhesive 18 and partially into the continuous closure layer 14.
  • the continuous flexible film web 12 also may have a tab score 15 (FIG. 1 ) formed therein, The tab score 15 may be formed similar to the score 16, The tab score 15 may be disposed on the continuous flexible film 12 in an area where the continuous closure layer 14 is applied thereon. As discussed in more detail below, the tab score 15 permits a portion 38 of the flexible film to separate from the remainder of the continuous flexible film web 12 to form a tab portion 40 at an end of the film package with the continuous closure layer 14.
  • the tab score 15 includes a series of arcuate die cuts that result in an arcuate portion of the flexible film 38 separating from the remainder of the continuous flexible web 12.
  • the tab score 15 includes a series of score lines so that the longitudinal registration of the continuous flexible film web does not need to be precisely calibrated with the seal bars and separation or knife cuts thai form or separate the individual film packages 5 from the series of flexible packages 10.
  • the tab score 15 is formed to intersect with the knife or separation cut 44 subsequently made into the laminate when the individual packages are formed.
  • the score 16 and the tab score 15 are formed after the continuous closure layer 14 is applied to the flexible film web 12.
  • the score 16 may extend through the entire depth of the flexible film 2 and possibly through portions of the pressure sensitive adliesive 18. It also is anticipated that the score 16 may extend slightly into the continuous closure layer 14; however, the score 16 does not extend into the continuous closure layer 14 sufficiently enough to compromise the integrity of the barrier properties of the continuous closure layer 14. A variety of different score depths also are anticipated for tab score 15 as well.
  • a pre-scored film (or one scored prior application of the closure layer) also can define tear lines to create an opening on the flow-wrap package as die label is pulled back.
  • the score 16 may maintain the seal of the flexible film package prior to opening, such that die flexible film 12 is not completely scored through the entire depth.
  • the score 16 may extend through the flexible film 12 such that the continuous closure layer 14 substantially provides the seal prior to initial opening of the flexible package.
  • the score 16 defines a packag opening that permits access to at least 70 percent of the products within the flexible film package upon initial opening of the package. More particularly, when the elongated closure layer 14 is peeled to the end of the score 1.6 to expose the entire score 16, it is anticipated that a user may access (i.e., remove from the package) any of at least 70% of the product within the package. This gives the consumer access to a substantial portion of the products within the flexible film package just after initial opening.
  • the score 16 defines a package opening that, permits access to at least 90% of the product within the package. In another configuration, the score 16 defines a package opening permitting access to at least 50% of the product within the package.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the score line 16 having a bulbous or arcuate section 30 extending into two generally elongated, straight sections 32 that terminate at ends 34, which have hooks in the illustrated configuration.
  • the hooks or J -shaped ends help prevent the score 16 from
  • the arcuate section 30 of the score 16 permits the package openiiig to be sufficiently large enough to easily serve and access a substantial portion of the product contained therein,
  • FIG. 8 another series of flexible package blanks 110 is shown.
  • the series of flexible package blanks 110 is similar to the series of flexible package blanks 10 and has a continuous flexible film web 1 12 with an elongated or continuous closure layer 114.
  • the primary differences with the series of flexible packages 110 are the score 116 and the tab score 115.
  • the score 116 includes a bulbous or arcuate portion 130 that is slightly narrower than portion 30 and also includes two generally elongated, straight sections 132 that angle inward toward one another and to ends 134 that include hooks extending away from the center of the package.
  • the package opening created with score 116 may be slightly more narrow than the package opening created with score 16,
  • the tab score 115 includes a series of straight score lines that are configured to intersect the knife cut 144 subsequently made when individual packages are formed
  • FIG. 8 also illustrates an opening or peg hole 154 that may be formed through the closure layer 114 and the flexible film 12 to allow the individual packages to be hung, for example, for display purposes.
  • Flexible film web 12, 112 may be a laminate with several layers of material, including, for example, a PET layer, an OPP layer, a PE layer, a MET OPP layer, a PP layer, and/or a PLA layer, to note a few options.
  • the flexible film web 12 may be a single layer polymer or mono-web. Since the flexible film package is at least partially hermetically sealed, the flexible film web preferably provides a gas and moisture barrier.
  • the flexible film may be about 1 mil to about 5 mil (100 to 500 gauge; 0.0254 to 0.127 mm) in thickness.
  • the flexible film web 12 may be about 0.47 mil to about 0.98 mil (47 to 98 gauge; 0,012 mm to 0.025 mm) in diickness.
  • the flexible film web 12 may be about 0.67 mil to about 0.71 mil (67 to 71 gauge; 0.017 mm to 0.018 mm) in thickness.
  • the extradate also will add about 0.4 mil to about 1.2 mil (40 to 120 gauge; 0.01 to 0.03mm) of additional thickness to the flexible film.
  • the thickness of the film may be a function of the desired barrier to gas, moisture, and light, along with die level of desired structural integrity, the desired depth of score line, and the available manufacturing equipment,
  • Flexible film web 12, 112 may be a heat scalable copolymer, in some configurations, the heat scalable polymer forms a seal between, for example, 50 and 300 degrees Celsius.
  • Flexible film web 12 also may be a pressure sealing film.
  • the film web 12, 112 may be a pressure sealing film.
  • the pressure sealing film may form a seal between, for example, a pressure of about 0.7 to 7.0 kg/cm.
  • the pressure sealing film forms a seal at about 5,6 kg/cm,
  • sealants such as sealants, stiffeners, ink, release layers
  • additional laminate layers such as sealants, stiffeners, ink, release layers
  • a sealant layer can be added to facilitate the formation of seals that enclose the product.
  • the sealant layer may be oriented on the film surface directed to the interior of the package (interior-facing surface).
  • the sealant layer may be a variety of polymer sealants, such as a heat activated polymer sealant layer like ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ionomer plastic (such as that sold under the trade name SU LYN by DuPont), metallocene, and organoclay, among others, in one example, seals, such as fin seals, can be formed using a heal activated sealant layer.
  • cold sealant and pressure sealants also may be used with the configurations disclosed herein. If the products widiin the flexible film package are food products, then it is noted thai food grade sealants would be employed.
  • stiffeners are added to flexible film 12, .1 12 to increase the stiffness of the film. These stiffeners may be in addition to the stiffness adjustments that can be made by changing the thicknesses or densities of the previously mentioned laminate layers. These stiffeners can be added as a component of the extruded film or as a separate layer.
  • a laminate, layer such as a polyamide polymer (e.g., nylon) may be included in the laminate film structure of flexible film web 12.
  • nylon may be added as a laminate layer that is held to the remainder of the film structure by an adhesive.
  • the nylon layer may be positioned in between other layers such that the other flexible film layers are attached on each side of the nylon layer (i.e., a tie layer).
  • a film structure such as a 2 mil structure, may include a nylon layer of about 6-10 % of die film thickness or about 0.003 to 0.005 mm.
  • the nylon layer coxnprises about 8% of the film thickness.
  • the nylon layer may comprise about 0.004mm.
  • an ink layer may be formed into the laminate as an additional laminate layer.
  • one specific laminate can include ink and a primer disposed between other film layers uch as a PET layer and an OPP layer.
  • the ink may be a surface printed layer with a release over-lacquer such as that used for a mono-web.
  • Other additional layers may include a metaiized layer, as noted above.
  • a release layer may be incorporated in some configurations to provide more flexibility in the laminate structure and also may increase the numbers options for pressure sensitive adhesives. For example, if a release layer is incorporated, the pressure sensitive adhesive used in the packager may have a lower peel force.
  • the release layer may be a homo-polymer such as an OPP.
  • a release layer also may be an over-lacquer that is printed or extruded onto the film thereby providing a barrier between die pressure sensitive adhesive and the flexible film to provide consistent opening characteristics.
  • the elongated closure layer 14 is continuously applied along the flexible film 12 such that the continuous closure layer 14 extends from one end seal to another end seal once the flexible film package 5 is formed.
  • the continuous closure layer 14 extends from a first end seal 26 to a second end seal 28, Furthermore, the closure layer 14 extends only partially over the width of the flexible film 12 that forms the film package 5. it is also contemplated, however, that the continuous closure layer 14 may extend the entire width of the package but only be partiall disposed over the length of the flexible film 12. More particularly, the continuous closure layer 14 preferably does not extend both the entire width and the entire length of the package.
  • the continuous closure layer 14 is partially disposed in either direction (i.e., the length or width) and continuously disposed in the other of the directions. In one approach, the continuous closure layer 14 is continuously applied along one axis of the flexible film and is only partially applied along the axis normal to the continuously applied axis.
  • the flexible film packages 10 may have an elongated closure 14 that runs the entire length of the package and over only a portion of the width or an elongated closure 14 that runs the entire width of the package and over only a portion of the length of the package.
  • FIG. 2 which shows a cross section of the flexible film along line 2-2, illustrates a pressure sensitive adhesive between the flexible film 12 and the elongated closure layer 14, Though the elongated closure layer 14 is disposed in a generally centered position in FIGS. 1-2, it is also anticipated that the elongated closure layer 14 may be off-center or offset on the width or length of the package, FIG. 3 illustrates how the elongated closure layer 14 may be disposed along an edge of the flexible film 12.
  • the elongaied closure layer 14. which is adhered to the flexible film 12 and covers score 16, permits easy manual opening of the flexible package 5.
  • the elongated closure layer 14 can be formed such that the flexible package 5 has a tab portion 40. More particularly, a tab portion 40 (FIG. 5) may be formed by the elongated closure layer 14 and a portion of the flexible film in an unsealed area of the flexible film extending distal to an end seal such as end seal 26, allowing a user to grasp and peel open the upper layer of the peelable seal, i.e., the elongated closure layer 14.
  • flexible film 12 has a first edge portion 20 and a second edge portion 22.
  • the edge portions 20, 22 may be brought together and formed into a longitudinal seal, such as, fin seal 24 extending from a first end seal 26 to a second end seal 28, as shown in FIGS, 4-6.
  • T he longitudinal seal also may include a lap seal.
  • the longitudinal seal may run the length of the package, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. However, the package may be configured such d at the longitudinal seal runs along the width of the package as well.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates one approach to creating the end seals 26, 28.
  • FIG. 1 generally illustrates how the seal bar areas 42 (illustrated in dashed lines) create the first and second end seals 26, 28 of the packages (shown in FIGS. 4 and 5).
  • the continuous flexible film web 12 is wrapped around a forming device such as a forming tube, forming collar or in another manner and the edge portions 20, 22 are brought together for sealing.
  • the ends seals 26, 28 also may he formed on the package.
  • the end seals 26. 28 may include an upper and lower film portion 48, 50, as shown in FIG. 7, or also may include a front and back portion, depending on the configuration of the flexible film package.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates where the separation cut 44 may be formed between the end seals 26, 28, also illustrated in dashed lines.
  • the separation cut 44 separates die individual packages 5 from the series of flexible film packages 10 and cuts through the flexible film web 12, the continuous closure layer 14, and the pressure sensitive adhesive 18, In one example, this separation point occurs between the second end seal 28 of a leading package and the first end seal 26 of a trailing package.
  • die end portions of the flexible film of two packages disposed adjacent the first and second end seals 26, 28 are not sealed together.
  • the free ends 46 since they are not sealed together, may be graspable by a user.
  • a user may grasp the free ends of the flexible film that are adjacent the upper and lower portions of the end seal and pull apart the end seal. More particularly, in some packages, the free end portions are the pulled apart by consumers to rupture the substantially hermetic film-to-film seal d at forms the end seal, sometimes referred to as a destructive seal.
  • a user may elect to pull the front and back panels (or the upper and lower panels) away from one another, adjacent the seal, to rapture the end seal. Both of these manners of opening a package, rupture the permanent or primary seal and are oftentimes not resealable.
  • the end seals 26, 28 and the longitudinal seal 24 are film-to-film seals and may be considered primary seals and are oftentimes permanent or destructive seals.
  • the closure layer 14 also forms a seal with the flexible package 5 and may be considered a secondary seal, The secondary seal is resealable and generally is not destructive.
  • the peel force required to separate the primary seals (primary peel force) is higher than the peel force required to separate the secondary seals (secondary peel force).
  • the flexible film package 5 has primary seals, including end seals 26, 28 and longitudinal seal 24, along with a secondary seal formed by the closure layer 14 over the length of the flexible film package 5.
  • the secondary seal is formed, in part, by the pressure sensitive adhesive 18 disposed between the continuous closure layer 14 and the flexible film 12.
  • FIG. 7, which is a cross section taken along line 7-7 of FIG, 4, shows the flexible film 12 at the first end seal 26.
  • the continuous closure layer 14 and pressure sensitive adhesive 18 also are disposed adjacent the first end seal 26. Near or at this point, the user will grasp the tab portion 40 (FIG. 5) and pull upward to separate the continuous closure layer 14 from the flexible film 12 to expose package opening 36. So that the continuous closure layer 14 is peeled away from the flexible film 12 without disturbing d e primary seal between the upper and lower portions 48, 50 of the first end seal 26, the primary peel force therebetween is larger than the secondary peel force required to separate the continuous closure layer 14 from the flexible film 12.
  • the primary and secondary peel forces are equal the user may disturb or negatively impact the primary seals, which may not be resealable.
  • the primary seal has a peel force that is 200-300 grams/in. 2 higher than the peel force of the secondary seal
  • the difference in peel forces may be between 25-400 grams/in A
  • the flexible film package 5 is configured to permit the user to pull the continuous closure layer 14, which is adjacent the end seal, upward from the end seal 26 without rapturing the end seal 26.
  • die flexible film 12 has a tab score 15 formed therein such that the user can grasp the continuous closure layer 14 without contacting the pressure sensitive adhesive 18.
  • the primary and secondary seals may have peel forces configured to permit a user to easily open the package without disturbing the primary seals.
  • the flexible package 5 may have a tab portion 40 that permits easy opening of the package.
  • the free ends 46 of the package are adjacent the end seals but are generally not sealed together. More particularly, the free ends 46 of the package may be found in an unsealed area of the film laminate and, by one approach, are distal to the end seal of the package thereby allowing a user to grasp and peel open a portion 38 of the upper layer or portion 48 of the film and the continuous closure layer 14.
  • the tab portion 40 may be formed by the combination of the tab score 15 and the separation cut 44.
  • the leading end of the flexible film package 5 may be defined by the separation cut 44, which also may be adjacent the location of the tab portion 40.
  • a user may grasp at. that end to begin opening the package. Specifically, a consumer may grasp the free end 46 of the upper portion 48 of ihe flexible film 12 and also the portion of the continuous closure layer 14 adjacent the leading end.
  • one of the free ends 46 adjacent the upper portion 48 of die end seal 26 may have tab score 15 formed therein.
  • a portion of the flexible film 38 may separate from th remainder of the flexible film 12 at one of the tab scores 15.
  • the portion 38 may cover the pressure sensitive adhesive 18 disposed underneath the continuous closure layer 14 and provide the user with a tack free gripping or tab portion 40. More particularly, the portion 38 is provided by having the tab score 15 separate d e flexible film portion 38 from the remainder of the flexible film 12,
  • a cut-out 52 shown in FIG. 5, illustrates where the portion 38 of the flexible film 12 is removed from the remainder of the flexible film to cover the pressure sensitive adhesive 18 on the tab portion 40.
  • the tab score 15 may be disposed partially into the leading end seal 26 of the package 10, the tab score 15 may extend just along the leading end seal of the package 10, or may be disposed just outside the leading end seal 26. In addition, if a series of tab scores 15 are employed, the tab scores 15 may have lines disposed in all three locations.
  • the tab score 15 extends just slightly into the leading end seal 26, a slight portion of the end seal 26 may be included in the portion 38 removed from the flexible film 12; however, if the tab score 15 extends significantly into the leading end seal 26, the forces within the seal will likely not permit much of the leading end seal 26 to separate therefrom to form the portion 38 of flexible film 12.
  • the configuration of the portion 38 that is removed from flexible film 12 may depend on the configuration of the separation cut, the tab scores 15, the relative placement of the tab scores 15, and also may depend on the strength of the leading end seal 26.
  • the middle arcuate score line of tab score 15 will typically define the trailing, perimeter edge of the tab portion 44.
  • the separation cut 44 which defines the leading edge of the tab portion 40 and d e leading edge of the flexible film package 5, also defines the trailing edge of another flexible film package 5,
  • a leading flexible film package 5 is provided a trailing edge by a die or knife cutting assembly
  • a trailing flexible film package 5 is provided a leading edge.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive 18, which is disposed or applied between the flexible film 12 and the elongated closure layer 14, may have a variety of strengths and compositions.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may include, for example, a cold formed adhesive, a hot melt adhesive, a cold seal adhesive, a natural or synthetic latex adhesive, a low tack adhesive, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), an acrylic adhesive (such as a water-based or solvent acrylic adhesive), a styrene block copolymer adhesive, a butyl rubber adhesive, a silicone rubber adhesive, a natural rubber adhesive, a nitriles adhesive, an acrylic emulsion adhesive, and combinations thereof.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive may be extruded, eoextruded, printed, or combinations thereof. By one approach, the pressure sensitive adhesive has a higher bonding strength than the strength required to tear or separate the score 15. in such a
  • a flexible film package 205 includes a flexible film 212 having a continuous closure layer 214 disposed thereon.
  • the flexible film package. 205 includes a score 216 and a tab score 215 disposed adjacent a first end seal 226.
  • the score 216 includes a generally U-shaped configuration that has an arcuate portion 230 and two generally elongated straigh portions 232 that terminate at end portions 234 adjacent end seal 228.
  • Tab portion 240 is adjacent end seal 226 and is defined, in part, by the score 215, which include a plurality of repeating straight score lines through the flexible film 212.
  • the leading and trailing edges of the flexible film package 205 are straight and do not have arcuate sections as with the package of FIGS. 4-5.
  • a die cu 260 is illustrated through, at least, the continuous closure layer 214.
  • the die cut 260 is formed through the continuous closure layer 214, the pressure sensitive adhesive 218, and the flexible film 212.
  • a tab portion 240 is created adjacent the first end seal 226 having an arcuate leading edge defined by the die cut 260 through the continuous closure layer 214 and die score 216 through the flexible film layer 312.
  • pair of cross-hatched score areas 256 may be provided adjacent the outside portions of the tab 240.
  • die die cut 260 extends into the cross-hatched score areas 256.
  • the cross-hatched score areas 256 permit easier separation of the continuous closure layer 214 from the flexible film 212 at the trailing edge of the fab portion 240.
  • a series 310a of flexible film packages, illustrated in FIG. I0A, is similar to the flexible film package blank 205, however, the series of flexible film packages 310a lacks a tab portion with an arcuate leading edge but includes a straight leading edge.
  • the series of flexible film packages 310a includes a flexible film 312a with a continuous closure layer 314a disposed thereon.
  • the flexible film 312a has a score 316a that becomes the package opening and a tab score 3I5a that helps form a tab portion 340a.
  • the arcuate shaped tab score 3I5a extends into the free ends of the leading and trailing packages to permit variation in the registration of the package elements with the separation cut 344a.
  • tab score 315a does not require that the longitudinal registration of the continuous flexible film web be precisely calibrated with the separation cut 344a that is employed between the end seals of leading and trailing packages, in addition to having the arcuate tab score 315a formed by a score forming mechanism similar to that which forms score 316a, the arcuate cuts also may be formed by the separation cut.
  • a series 310b of flexible film packages which will subsequently look identical to the series 310a of packages, may be formed by having a separation or knife cut 344b configured to create arcuate cuts 345b in the film in the unsealed areas distal to the leading end seal.
  • the configurations of FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B both provide a tab portion 340a, 340b diat is relatively wide.
  • the tab portion 340a, 340b may have arcuate sides and straight leading and trailing edges.
  • FIG. 11 Another illustrative series of flexible film package blanks 410 is shown in FIG. 11.
  • the series of flexible film package blanks 410 includes a continuous flexible film 412, a continuous closure layer 414, and a score 416 (illustrated in FIG. 12 in dashed lines) that provides for a package opening 436 once the continuous closure layer 414 is at least partially lifted from the subsequently formed package 405 (FIG. 13).
  • the continuous closure layer 414 similar to the previously described configurations, covers a portion of the width of the flexible film 412.
  • the series of flexible film package blanks 410 also includes a closure layer score 456 disposed in the closure layer 414.
  • the closure layer score 456 extends from a tab portion '440 (near- the leading edge of the package) and is directed inward toward the package body and terminates at edges 458 of the continuous closure layer 414.
  • the closure layer score 456 may be disposed through the full depth of the closure layer 414, and the score 456 also may extend into the pressure sensitive adhesive 418 disposed between die continuous closure layer 414 and the flexible film 412,
  • the closure layer score 456 assists the user with peeling the continuous closure layer 414 from the flexible film 412, which cart become difficult for packages with a relatively wide continuous closure layer 414 that covers more area of the flexible film 412.
  • the closure layer score 456 forms cut-outs 459 in the continuous closure layer 414 once the tab portion 440 and a portion of d e continuous closure layer 4.1.4 it is lifted from the film 412.
  • the portions 461 of the continuous closure layer 414 that are cut-out from the remainder of die continuous closure layer 414 remain adhered to the flexible film 412 disposed adjacent the leading edge of the package 460.
  • the closure layer score 456 reduces the peel force required to lift the continuous closure layer 414 from the flexible film 412.
  • a tab score 415 is formed in flexible film 412.
  • the tab score 415 (illustrated in FIGS. 12 in dashed lines) may extend from a trailing seal area 442 (which forms a trailing end seal) of one package to die leading seal area 442 (which forms a leading end seal) of another package.
  • the tab score 415 extends at least partially into the free ends of the package lhat are positioned between the two seal areas 442 prior to separation of the packages.
  • free ends 446 are adjacent both a leading edge 460 and a trailing edge 462.
  • the leading edge 460 is adjacent die tab portion 440 and forms the leading edge of the tab portion 440.
  • the leading edge 460 is formed by the separation cut 444, which is straight in this example.
  • the tab portion 440 has a straight leading edge as well.
  • the straight separation cut 444 also provides a straight trailing edge 462 of the packages as well.
  • the tab portion 440 also has a removed portion 438 from the flexible film 412 that covers the pressure sensitive adhesive 418 disposed on the continuous closure layer 414.
  • the tab score 415 includes arcuate lines that intersect the sea! area 442 that becomes the leading end seal 426.
  • the flexible film package may have three side seals.
  • such a package may have a dead fold
  • FIG. 14 shows another flexible film package 500.
  • the flexible film package 500 includes a front and a back film panel 520, 522, first and second end seals 502 and 504, along with a top seal 506 extending from the first end seal 502 to the second end seal 504, which is a longitudinal seal, and a dead fold 508,
  • Flexible film 512 includes an elongated closure layer 514 disposed from the first end seal 502 to the second end seal 504.
  • flexible film package 500 includes a pressure sensitive adhesive 518 disposed between the flexible film 512 and the elongated closure layer 514.
  • a score may be disposed between one of either the front or back film panels 520, 522.
  • a score 516 is disposed through the front panel 520, and the elongated closure layer 514 and the pressure sensitive adhesive 518 are disposed thereon.
  • a cut away portion 525 defined by the score 516 is separated from the front panel 520 and adheres to the back panel 522, More particularly, the top seal 506 is formed between the front and back panels 520, 522 and portions of the score 516 may be disposed above and below the top seal 506.
  • a cut-out portion 525 of the front panel 520 that is sealed (via top seal 506) to the back panel 522 remains adhered thereto.
  • a user may access the product within the flexible film package 505, and then, a user may reseal the package 505 by pressing the pressure sensitive adhesive 518 underneath the closure layer 514 into contact with the back panel 522 and the cut away portion 525.
  • FIG. 17 schematically illustrates one method of manufacturing die flexible film package 505.
  • the continuous closure layer 514 may be continuously disposed upon flexible film web 512.
  • a forming or folding mechanism 578 may be used to form the film into the package shape for filling with product and forming die 582 may be used to create the seals and the separation cut between packages,
  • FIG. 29 another illustrative package 1305 is shown with three side seals.
  • a flexible film 1312 has a continuous closure layer 1314 from one of the side seals 1302 to the other side seal 1304, Indeed, the continuous closure layer 1314 extends from a first edge 1360 to a second edge 1362 of the package 1305.
  • a score line 1316 is disposed in the flexible film 1312 underneath the continuous closure layer 1314, and the score line 1316 subsequently forms the package opening 1336 (FIG. 30).
  • the package 1305 further includes notches 1386 through the flexible film 1312 adjacent a tab portion 1340 that is adjacent the first edge 1360.
  • the notches 1386 help remove a portion 1338 of the flexible film 1312 from the remainder of the film.
  • the cut-out 1352 is found where the portion 1338 has been removed from die flexible film 1312.
  • the portion 1338 covers the pressure sensitive adhesive 1316 on the continuous closure layer 1314 to provide a tab portion 1340 for grasping.
  • a tab score 1315 similar to previously described tab scores, may be formed adjacent or at die side seal 1304 to assist with removal of the portion 1338, which may remain adhered to the continuous closure layer 1314.
  • FIG. 22A shows a package blank 810 that may be formed into package 805 (FIG. 22B).
  • the package blank 810 includes a flexible film 812 with a continuous closure layer 814 and an arcuate score line 816 disposed thereunder, as shown in FIG. 22A.
  • FIG. 22A also illustrates tab score 815 disposed near tab score 840.
  • the package blank 810 of FIG. 22A also illustrates where the fold lines 812, 823 will be disposed and where the seal areas 844a will form a lap seal 824 and where the seal areas 844b will form side seals 802, 804 to form a package 805.
  • the formed package 805 illustrated in FIG. 22B includes two side seals 802, 804 and a fin or lap seal 824.
  • F G. 22B also shows tab score 815 and opening score 816 (in dashed lines).
  • the package 805 shown in FIG. 22B may be formal from two different package blanks.
  • FIG. 22A shows package blank 810 that may be formed into package 805 having a lap seal 824.
  • FIG. 22D shows package blank 810 that may be formed into a package 805 similar to that shown in FIG. 22B with a fin seal 24, as opposed to a lap seal.
  • the free end 846 is disposed only adjacent the first end 860 of the flexible film 812, as shown in FIG. 22A.
  • a fin seal is desired for the package 805
  • a free end 846 is disposed adjacent the first end 860 and the second end 862 of the flexible film 812, as shown in FIG. 22D.
  • the package 805 includes a top fold 821 and bottom fold 823.
  • the top fold 821 may he formed in the flexible film 12 and the continuous closure layer 814.
  • a score 816 is formed in the flexible film 812 to create a package opening 836 (FIG. 22C) once the continuous closure layer 814 is lifted from the flexible film 812.
  • the score 816 that forms the package opening may be disposed adjacent the top fold 821 such that the fold 821 and the continuous closure layer 814 help avoid additional tearing of the flexible film 812 beyond the score line 816.
  • the ends of score 816 are disposed at or near the fold line 821.
  • the continuous closure layer 814 is disposed near free end 846 that may partly form the tab portion 840.
  • a series of tab scores 815 may be disposed in flexible film 812 near the tab portion 840, Further, one of the tab score 815 may form a portion 836 of the flexible film 812 that is removed from the remainder of the film to cover a portion of the pressure sensitive adhesive 818 that is disposed on the tab portion 840.
  • the tab portion 840 includes a free end 846 of the flexible film 812 and a portion 838 of the flexible film 812 that is removed from the remainder of the film 812 (and remains adhered to the pressure sensitive adhesive disposed on the underside of the continuous closure layer 814).
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive 818 (FIG, 22C) disposed between the continuous closure layer 814 and the flexible film 812 may reseal the continuous closure layer 814 to the flexible film 812 around the score 816 that forms the package opening 836.
  • FIG. 18 Another illustrative series of flexible film package blanks 6 0 is shown in FIG, 18, The series of flexible film package blanks 6.10 are formed into individual flexible film packages 605 (FIG. 19).
  • the series of package blanks 610 includes a continuous flexible film 612, a continuous closure layer 614, a score 616, and a tab score 615.
  • the score 616 includes an arcuate portion that connects two generally elongated straight portions. Unlike other examples, the score 616 does not terminate at tear-inhibiting portions, i.e., hooks or J-shaped ends, that are configured to inhibit or prevent the score 616 from tearing beyond the formed scored.
  • ends 664 of the score 616 will continue to tear the flexible film 612 past the initially formed score 616 such that the ends 664 of the score 616 eventually come together.
  • a closed-shape portion of the flexible film 612 will be fanned by the tear lines or the score 616, and this closed-shape portion may be lifted from the flexible film 612 during package opening.
  • the series of flexible film package blanks 610 which has a continuous flexible film 612 and a continuous closure layer 614, is formed into individual packages 605 having an elongated closure layer 614 over the flexible film 6.12.
  • the elongated closure layer 614 extends from the leading edge 660 to the trailing edge 662 of the package 605.
  • the separation cut 644 is a straight cut in the illustrative example of FIG. 18.
  • a tab score 615 having an arcuate configuration is disposed adjacent the leading edge 660 of the package 605.
  • the tab score 615 includes a series of spaced, arcuate scores.
  • the tab score 615 intersects with the seal area 642 that forms the first end seal 626.
  • FIG. 21 An additional flexible film package blank 705 is shown in FIG. 21.
  • the blank 705 includes a flexible film 712 having a score 716 with a continuous, elongated closure layer 714 disposed thereover.
  • Score ends 764 have a wavy, arcuate score 766 (similar to two adjacent "smile” scores) located near the ends 764 that inhibit or prevent further tearing of the score 716 beyond the wavy, arcuate score 766.
  • a further arcuate score 734 is positioned on the other side of the wavy, arcuate score 766, and provides additional resistance to further tearing of the score 716.
  • a tab score 715 is formed in the flexible film 712 near the leading edge 760 and includes a series of repeating straight lines.
  • a tab cut 768 is formed through the flexible film 715 and the continuous closure layer 714. The tab cut 768 is positioned in between the leading edge 760 of the package and the tab score 715.
  • a consumer can grasp a tab portion 740, having a tab leading edge that is formed by the tab cut 768 and a tab trailing edge diat is formed by one of the lines of tab score 715 that intersect with the first end seal area 742.
  • a portion of the flexible film 712 is removed from a remainder of the flexible film to cover the pressure sensitive adhesive disposed on the surface of the elongated closure layer 714 that faces the film 712.
  • the packages described herein may be formed in a variety of manners.
  • the packages may be formed in-line j st prior to forming a package around a product or may be formed just prior to filling a package with product.
  • the packages may be formed off-line well before the products are packaged. If the packages are formed off-line, the packages may be formed in a remote location away from the location where the packages are filled with product.
  • a continuous closure layer 914 may be applied to a flexible film web 12.
  • a continuous closure layer 914 having a pressure sensitive adhesive disposed on one side is applied to the flexible film web 12.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive is disposed on the side of the closure layer 914 that contacts die flexible film 912, hi one configuration, the continuous closure layer 914 is wound on a roll (such as a roll of tape), that is unwound and then applied to the flexible film web 912, To aid release of the pressure sensitive adhesive from the opposing side of the continuous closure layer 914 » a release layer may be deposited onto the opposing surface of the closure layer 914, It also is anticipated that a backing layer could be disposed between the pressure sensitive adhesive and the opposing side of the continuous closure layer 914,
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive 1018 is applied separately from the continuous closure layer 1014. More particularly, instead of having the pressure sensitive adhesive previously applied to the closure layer (or previously applied to the film) before applying the closure layer to the film, the pressure sensitive adhesive 10.18 may be applied around the time that the closure layer is applied to the film and in a separate application process. Thus, once the pressure sensitive adhesive 1018 is applied to the flexible film .1.012. the continuous closure layer 1014 may be applied thereon, in another configuration, the pressure sensitive adhesive 1018 may be applied to the continuous closure layer 1014 just before application of the closure layer 1014 to the film 1012,
  • FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate exemplary cross sections of F G. 23, As noted above, the packages may have a release ink 970 incorporated therein.
  • the release ink 970 as illustrated, may be disposed between the pressure sensitive adhesive 918 and the flexible film 912.
  • the release ink 970 may be disposed just underneath the continuous closure layer 914.
  • the release ink 970 may be disposed beyond the width of the continuous closure layer 914 and, in some
  • FIG. 27 illustrates one exemplary process 100 for producing a series of flexible film package blanks in an off-line manner
  • a continuous closure layer 1 1 14 (which may be narrower than the width of the roll of flexible film web 1 1 12) may be applied over a portion of the flexible film web 1112.
  • a score may be formed into at least the flexible film 11 12 by a score forming mechanism 1 172.
  • the score may be formed on the interior surface of the package, i.e., on a side of the flexible film opposite the closure layer.
  • score is formed into the continuous closure layer 11 14 (either partially or completely through the closure layer), such as shown in configuration of FIG.
  • score forming mechanism 1 174 may be employed.
  • a single score forming mechanism 1172 is illustrated and may form both the score that, provides a package opening and a score that partially forms the tab portion, these scores also may be formed by two separate score forming mechanisms.
  • the laminate including the scored flexible film web 1112 and the continuous closure layer 1 14 then may be wound on a laminate roll 1184.
  • This laminate roll 1 184 may be subsequently brought to a packaging line for use in forming individual package filled with product
  • the packaging line may be within the same facility as the laminate forming equipment illustrated in FIG. 27, or alternatively, the laminate forming equipment may he remote from the packaging facility.
  • FIG. 28 One exemplary in-line process 1200 for producing flexible film packages is shown in FIG. 28.
  • a continuous closure layer 1214 is applied to a continuous flexible film 1212.
  • a score forming mechanisms 1272 may form the scores on the interior surface of the package.
  • a score forming mechanisms 1274 may be positioned adjacent the continuous closure layer 1214.
  • a package forming or folding mechanism 1278 such a forming collar, may be employed to wrap the flexible film 1212 and closure layer 1214 around a product or in a configuration that can retain subsequently filled product.
  • a filling mechanism 1277 may he employed to fill product 1280 into the partially formed web of film.
  • another package forming or folding mechanism 1279 may be positioned just upstream of package die 1282 (both of these functions may also be performed by a combined forming mechanism and package die).
  • the package die 1282 may- include the knife that forms the separation cut between packages and also may include the seal bars that form the end seals of the package.
  • the package die 1282 also may form the longitudinal seal, though the longitudinal seal may also be independently formed.
  • FIG, 28 illustrates a horizontal forming configuration, the processes described herein also may be performed in a vertical configuration.
  • FIGS. 31-34 various configurations of a flow- wrap package generally indicated at 10' are illustrated therein.
  • FIGS, 35-38 illustrate the packages 10' of FIGS. 31-34 respectively in open configurations.
  • FIGS. 39-43 Further, additional configurations of the labels and score lines are illustrated in FIGS. 46 to 50.
  • the various configurations of package 10' can be formed by joining opposing sides of tlie flexible film 12' together to form a seal 14'.
  • the flexible film 12' preferably has a sealant layer on an interior surface thereof.
  • End seals such as trailing and leading end seals 18', 20' also may be provided.
  • die leading end seal 20' may be non-peelable seals, i.e., a destructive seal where the sealant layers are considered to have bonded and do not separate from one another when pulled apart, such as that found in FIGS. 32, 34, 46-47.
  • leading end seal 20' is a peelable seal, i.e., a seal having sealant layers that may be pulled apart or separated from one another, such as that found in FIGS. 31 and 33.
  • at least one of the packages end seals may be a non-peelable heat seal, such as trailing end seal IS' .
  • the tabs 22' provide a finger grip to initiate opening of the package
  • a trailing package edge 24' shows a concave radial shape corresponding to the shape of the tab 22 * adjacent the leading edge.
  • the reciprocal shape of the leading and trailing edges are formed when the flow-wrap package 10' is formed or separated from a roll of film or when the packages are separated from one another.
  • the leading end seal 20' can be peelable. Peelability may be achieved by using a sealant layer on the interior surface of the film 12',
  • the peelable end seal can be formed by heating the seal area to between about 85 to 205 degrees Celsius, though the peelability of the seal is dependent on the range of heat used for the seal, line speed, and film thickness. Generally, the higher the temperature, the lower the peelability and the stronger the seal.
  • the peelability and strength of the seal can be adjusted through the use of patterns or knurls, For example, if the pressure sensitive adhesive is not completely disposed to cover the entire surface area of the label 40. In such a configuration, the pressure sensitive adhesive may be provided in a patterned configuration, such as a cross-hatched pattern.
  • the sealing jaws that create the heat seals may include a knurl pattern thereon.
  • laser-formed scores or mechanically-formed or rotary die cuts may be formed into the flexible film 12' and may define a package opening and/or the tab portion.
  • the score may be added to the film surface that becomes the interior of the package, in addition, the die cutting or laser scoring of the film 12' is not limited to a particular gaug of material or composition.
  • the tear strength of the score 42' may be at least weaker than the adhesive strength of the pressure sensitive adhesive 30' to permit a portion of film X T to peel back with ihe label 40' .
  • the score 42' only extends through a portion of the package to avoid negatively affecting the barrier properties of the package 10'. If the score 42' is a partial depth score line, the label 40' may not need to provide the initial hermetic barrier, though optionally it can. By yet another approach, the score 42' extends through the entire depth of the package film, The optional barrier properties of the label 40' may result from an inherent characteristic of the label material, or through an added barrier layer to label 40' (not shown). Further, in
  • die label 40' may be configured to compensate for the compromised barrier properties.
  • FIGS. 31 to 34 and 46 illustrate several possible configurations. l ' 00163 ' l
  • a score line 42a' begins at the leading edge of the package (near the end seal 20') with two score lines that extend rearwardly, angling inward and merging to form a single tear line before terminating at an arcuate "smile" portion 56' discussed below.
  • a consumer may grasp an unsealed lower layer of tab 22' with one hand and the laminate of label 40' and tab 22' from the upper film .12' with the other, The upper portion of tab 22' can be peeled back, rearwardly, to expose opening 44'. Once the opening 44' is exposed, the label 44' may be used to reclose the package 10'. As shown in FIG. 35, the label 40' may be pulled off the package 10' to expose product 46'; however, the label 40' is preferably not pulled entirely off the package 10' during use. To prevent removal of the label 40' from the package 10', the trailing end seal 18', may include a permanent, non-peelable seal adhering label 40' to film 12'.
  • FIGS. 32-34 illustrate additional score configurations 42b', 42c', 42e ⁇ These lines may be straight, arcuate, or a combination of both. While the score 42a' extends into the leading end seal 20', scores 42b', 42c', 42e' are disposed between the end seals 18', 20' of one package 10'.
  • the score lines, such as 42c' and 42e ⁇ may be used to provide a portion or cut-out of film 12' that is completely removed from the remainder of the film 12' (See FIGS. 37 and 38).
  • the score lines, such as 42a', 42b', 42d' may include a terminus designed to prevent or inhibit further propagation of the score line past the score provided in the film during
  • the label 40' may include an adhesive free area 50'. While some previously described configurations disclosed a portion 38 of the flexible film 12 peeling upward from the remainder of the package, other configurations (such as FIG. 33) may include packages where there is no tab score to form a portion 38 for separation from the flexible film. If only the closure layer or label is pulled upward from the film at die end seal, the grasping, tab portion is formed in another manner.
  • the tab 22' may be formed without any pressure sensitive adhesive disposed thereon. As illustrated in FIG. 37, a tack free or adhesive free area 50' can be employed to form tab 22'.
  • a deadening agent may ⁇ be used to deaden the adhesive applied thereto.
  • a coating process such as that employing an ink or varnish, may be used to deaden the adhesive on the tab 22',
  • the continuous closure layer or label 40' may be folded over upon itself to form a tack free area that may form tab 22 ⁇ If only the label 40' is lifted from the package to expose the package opening (i.e., a portion is not removed from the remainder of the film), then the leading end seal adjacent the tab 22' can extend to the leading edge of the package or the separation cut that forms the package.
  • the tack-free tab may be formed by having a portion of film cover the adhesive.
  • a portion of film 12' may separate from the remainder of the film 12' to cover the adhesive.
  • a score line 42d such as a crescent shaped score, may be added into the film 12' at the top layer of the end seal 20' to permit a portion of the film 12' to separate therealong.
  • the leading end seal 20' is preferably a non-peelabie, permanent seal that retains its integrity even after the label 40' has been pulled and the package opened and closed. Further, the package 10' may be opened by peeling the resealable label 40' upward from the non-peelable seal between the film layers without disturbing the end seal 20'.
  • FIG. 46 A similar package configuration is illustrated in FIG. 46.
  • FIGS. 31 and 34 illustrate an arcuate "smile" portion 56' at an end or terminus of score line 42a'.
  • FIG. 32 illustrates a "shepherd's hook” or J-shaped hook at the terminus of the score line 42b'.
  • FIG. 33 illustrates a score line 42c' having a closed shaped loop, which also helps prevent undirected tearing of film 12',
  • FIG. 46 illustrates a score line 42f extending into permanent, trailing end seal 18 * .
  • score line 42a' in addition to the "smile" portion 56', score line 42a' also includes a single, straight portion that separates into two portions that angle outward before becoming parallel to one another closer to the leading end seal.
  • the score line 42a' extends to the leading edge of the package 10'.
  • FIG, 34 includes a score line 42e' similar to that found in FIG. 31, except prior to reaching the leading end seal 20', the score line 42e' angles inward and becomes a closed shaped loop. As illustrated in FIG. 38, the package 10' of FIG. 34 includes a portion of film 12' that is removed from the remainder of film 1.2'.
  • a continuous closure layer or label 40' may be applied to the exterior side of film 12' that is directed to the outside of package .10', preferably using a pressure sensitive adhesive.
  • the label 40' preferably covers at least the score lines 42'.
  • the peel strength between the surface of the package 10' and the label 40' is greater than the force required to separate sides of the score line 42'.
  • label 40' is peelable with respect to package 10'.
  • FIGS. 36 and 37 illustrate a portion of film 12' adhering to label 40' and die pressure sensitive adhesive disposed thereon to expose package opening 44'. Thus, continued pulling on tab 22' initiates rupture or separation of the score line 42'.
  • the pressure sensitive adhesive can be configuration, for example, to have an opening (separating) force of about 350 grams/inch and a closing (adhering) force of about 200 grams/inch.
  • opening and closing force ranges are considered to fall within the scope of the present embodiments.
  • the label 40' may be any film with an adhesive coving such as, for example, a flexible film with pressure sensitive adhesive, a tape, label, or iinerless label thai is continuously applied longitudinally to the flow of film, unlfke discrete labels known in the art.
  • a Iinerless label may be a facestock having a pressure sensitive adhesive coating on one side and can be roiled onto a spool without a liner.
  • a release coating may be applied to the side of die label opposite the side with pressure sensitive adhesive.
  • Facestocks may include, for example, standard paper, film, plastic, fabric, foil, direct thermal, and the like.
  • Iinerless labels are available with removable and repositionable adhesives,
  • the package 10' may be formed with a continuously disposed label 40', the package 10' may also be formed with a discrete label 40b', 40c', 40d' as shown in FIGS. 47-49.
  • score 42d can be added to package 10' to assist in the rupture of film 12' by forming a separable portion that can adhere to tab 22'.
  • FIGS, 36 and 38 also show thai a user can pinch and pull the laminate ⁇ including upper film 12' and label 40') rearward to open package 10'. As it is pulled, score 42d' separates or ruptures such that a portion of film 12' separates from the remainder of the film and pressure sensitive adhesive 30 is exposed on the underside of label 40'.
  • FIG. 50 Another configuration, illustrated in FIG. 50, includes a score line 42g' that is disposed within ends seals 18', 20' and score line 421' that is disposed at end seal 20'.
  • score line 42g' is formed in film 12 * and includes a slightly arcuate portion connecting two parallel portions.
  • the slightly arcuate portion of the score line 421' is disposed near end seal 20', and the parallel portions extend to end seal 18'.
  • the score line 42F includes a series of straight parallel, lines formed in film 12' , Having muliiple lines helps ensure that, at least one of the multiple lines is disposed distal and adjacent, to the end seal 20'.
  • one of the multiple score lines 42i' will permit a portion of die film 12' to be removed from the remainder of the film 12' to cover the pressure sensitive adhesive on the label 40', Further, to permit removal of a portion of the film 12' for a tab, at least a portion of the score line 42i' is preferably positioned on film 12' outside of the interior space of the package 10', i.e,, not between the end seals 18', 20'. In short, having multiple score lines adjacent the end seal and distal thereto allows a tab to be created even if, during production, the registration of the package elements is misaligned,
  • Flexible film packages 10' may be formed and assembled in a variety of manners.
  • An exemplary process 60' for forming flexible film packages is schematically illustrated in FIGS. 44-45.
  • opposite sides of the film 12' may be joined to form a fin seal 14', and a package height and interior space may be defined.
  • fin seal 14' may be formed as two film edges are brought together and sealed by heated wheels.
  • a sealant layer may be disposed or applied to the film 12', While the sealant or internal adhesive may be applied such that it covers the entire interior surface of the film 12 ⁇ it also may be applied only where it is needed to provide a seal, i.e., near the end and fin seals,
  • the end seals 18', 20' may be formed once product 46' has been placed in the interior space of package 10', End seals 18 ⁇ 20' also can define package 10' width or length.
  • the seals 14', 18', 20' are preferably hermetic seals that form a gas and moisture barrier. Similar to other seals discussed herein, die seals 14', 8', 20' can be thermoformed (i.e., heat welded) or fomied through other welding means. For configurations where the end seal 20' is peelable, a low tack adhesive or a cold seal and processes for forming such seals may be used, in addition, the end seals 18', 20' may employ patterns, crimps, or knurls.
  • the label 40' can be applied continuously along the longitudinal length of the flow or web of the film 12'.
  • the film and label laminate may be cut into individual packages.
  • FIGS, 41 and 42 illustrate a series of formed packages that have not been separated from one another.
  • the tabs 22' xnay be fomied, in part, by an arcuate score 42d' formed, in part, on a roll of film, and disposed at least partially at leading end seal 20'.
  • a leading edge or profile of the tab 22' may be formed.
  • the leading seal on a first package has a profile matching a trailing seal on a second package.
  • the tab 22' may have a front edge that is arcuate and defined, in part, by the leading edge of the package and may have a rear, trailing edge that is arcuate and defined, in part, by the arcuate score line 42d'.
  • the method of manufacturing and assembling the packages can employ heat seal mechanisms, cold seal mechanisms, extrusion and adhesive lamination mechanisms, and co-extrusion mechanisms.
  • the equipment employed may depend on the desired package configuration. For example, if tab 22' includes a cut-out portion of film 12' adhered to the label 40', the tab 22' may be created by adhering or applying the label 40' to the film 12' and scoring and/or cutting the tab 22'.
  • various score configurations may be employed, and the equipment for forming the score line may depend on the score configuration thereof.
  • film 44 may include a package apparatus thai positions the film above or adjacent the product, men wraps the film partially around the product to form a fin seal on one side of the product.
  • film 12' and label 40' (which may be transparent) are joined or merged form their respective feed rolls.
  • film 12' Prior to merging label 40', film 12' may be scored at 52' on the film surface directed to the interior of the package, though the top surface also could be scored.
  • the label 40' is preferably merged to the film 12' prior to the score station 52'.
  • the score may be formed in a variety of manners.
  • the fin seal 14' may be formed as the film 12' and label 40 ! laminate form a container or box 34' around the product 46' (see, also, FIG. 45). Though fin seal 14' is oriented on the bottom of package 10' in FIGS. 44 to 45, it may be oriented on any side of package 10' .
  • heated wheels may be pressed together to form the package seals.
  • the heat may activate the heat sealant layer on the interior surface of the package.
  • an EVA sealant layer is disposed on the film 12', and the heated wheels may be heated to between about 85 and 205 degrees Celsius.
  • line speed, film thickness, and other factors may affect formation of the seals, including a seal's peelability and hermeticity.
  • FIG. 44 illustrates that, once the film 12' has at least partially enveloped product 46', end seals 18', 20' can be formed by adjacent upper and lower seal jaws 62', as discussed below.
  • the seal jaws 62' may form end seals of the package (such as heat seals) and also may form or define the tabs 22', such as, for example, the tab portion between the end seals 18', 20'.
  • seal jaws 62' may be warmed by a heater element (not shown).
  • separate heating elements are possible where different levels of peelability are desired between trailing end seal 18' and leading end seal 20'.
  • a knife assembly may be used to fully separate individual packages or, alternatively, partially cut or perforate a portion between the packages to hold them together while providing a convenient manner of separating the packages when desired.
  • the fin seal 14' and end seals 18', 20' optionally may be formed from patterns imprinted on heated wheels 38' or seal jaws 62', which may emboss the film 12' as it is pulled through the manufacturing process.
  • the seal jaws 62' may rotate with the film web 12' as it moves through the production line and the seal jaws 62' may meet to form end seals 8', 20' and the seal jaws 62' also may form the tab 22' and/or separate the packages from the film.
  • the film 12' may be cut with a tab cutter die.
  • the seal jaw 62' forms a leading end seal 20' on one package
  • the seal jaw 62' may form a trailing end seal 18' on another package.
  • a space will be provided in the die where the film 12' is not sealed together. This space corresponds to the. space 42' between the seals of adjacent packages.
  • the free, unsealed portions of the packages .10' between the end seals 18' 20' of adjacent packages may have a dimension 64' that is about 6 to 12 mm,
  • the tab 22' is primarily formed in this portion of the package 10', though the rear, trailing edge may extend partially into the leading end seal 20'.
  • the dimension 64' is defined by the distance between the end seal areas on the die.
  • the two end seals 18', 20' could be formed by two separate dies (as opposed to a single die with two separate sealing areas for the two end seals) or a single sealing die that is repeatedly applied to the film to form the two end seals.
  • Optional or alternative features also may be incorporated into the packages described herein.
  • an optional frame 32' as shown in FIG, 37, may be added to the package.
  • the film 2' may be wrapped around the frame 32' to provide protection to tlie product 44'.
  • Additional configurations such as a vertical bag package, also may use the seal and reseal features described, especially for use with particular products, such as coffee.
  • FIG. 37 shows a package 10' having a discrete label 54' that may be applied between tlie end seals 20' and 18'. An unsealed area can extend past leading end seal 20.
  • FIG. 38 illustrates another package 10' having a discrete label 54' applied to film 12' so that one end of the label 54' can be sealed to the trailing end seal 18' of the package 10' such that tlie discrete label may not be easily removed from the package 10'.
  • a lap seal can be formed by first, overlapping a first and second surface of the film (typically adjacent the edges of the film) to form a sleeve (as opposed to overlapping in the same surface for a fin seal).
  • FIG. 51 illustrates another flow-wrap package 10" .
  • Package 10" is formed by joining opposite sides of the film to form a seal (shown as a fin seal 14").
  • the film 12" preferably has a sealant layer on an interior surface thereof.
  • a trailing end seal 18" and a leading end seal 20" are also provided.
  • the leading end seal 20" is non-peelable.
  • Package 10" may be formed in a continuous application operation, such as those described above with respect to FIG. 1, or may be formed in a process employing inner and outer die cuts (see, e.g., FIG. 69), or also may be formed in a discrete. label application (see, e.g., FIG. 68).
  • score lines tend to propagate a tear being formed in the film, and thus, the score may be configured to inhibit or prevent unintended tearing of the film.
  • the score 42" may have a pattern to reduce this tendency including, for example, a double "J" hook (FIG. 53), a "smile” (FIG. 54), or a “tear- drop” (FIG. 56).
  • a shepherd's hook and a single "J" hook may be employed.
  • FIGS. 52 to 56 illustrate various film score patterns 42" that may be incorporated into the film packages disclosed herein.
  • FIG. 52 for example, illustrates a "T” shaped score 42" having a straight portion 42a" along with shaped opening portions 28a".
  • FIG. 53 illustrates a "J" hook-shaped score that has an arcuate portion 42b" and a shepherd's hook configuration 28b" at one end and two "smile” portions or "J” hooks at the other end.
  • FIG. 54 illustrates a score 42" having a circular-shape or loop opening 28c" and a generally straight section 42a” that terminates at a "smile” portion.
  • FIG. 55 illustrates a score 42" with a spoon-shaped configuration 28d" that reduces to two generally straight and substantially parallel score lines 42c" that terminate in a "smile" configuration.
  • the parallel score Sines are preferably not. more than 5mm apart from one another.
  • FIG. 56 illustrates a score 42" having a shepherd's hook configuration 28e" at each end and an arcuate portion 42b" therebetween. Additional film score patterns and configurations can be found in Figs. 161-189 and are described below.
  • the opening created by the score 42" may permit the package opening to be sufficiently large enough to easily serve and access a substantial portion of the product contained therein, Fuitlier, in some configurations, the tendency of the flexible film to create a significant opening is, in part, due to the tendency of the fle ible film to revert back to its flat sheet form. This tendency may be especially evident for discrete stacks of generally round or oval-shaped products, such as a sleeve of round cookies, crackers, or biscuits, to note but a few. This occurs primarily when no frame is used within the flexible film of the package.
  • the score 42" may include a straight line extending longitudinally completely or partially along the length of the package, as shown in FIG. 63.
  • the score 42" may be continuously formed in the package film 12", and at the point where the end seals 18", 20" are formed, the sealant in the films 12" may be melted at the heat seal, which may then render the score 42" non-functional at the end seals 18", 20" to prevent unintended opening of the package at the seals.
  • leading end seal 20 may have a tab 22" formed distal thereto.
  • the tab 22" can be a "v" shaped tab, though other configurations, such as a square shaped or radial shaped tab, are possible.
  • the tab 22" provides a finger grip to initiate opening of the package 10".
  • a trailing package edge may include a concave shape corresponding to the shape of the leading edge tab 22".
  • the leading end seal 20" may be peel able, i.e., have sealant layers that are separable from one another.
  • the label 40" may be grasped and pulled upward from the package 10" to expose score line 42a' ' and package opening 44" .
  • a pressure sensitive adhesive 30" is positioned between the label 40" and the film 12".
  • a score may be provided through the film 12" at the tab 22" such that a portion of the flexible film 12" may separate from the remainder of the film to provide an adhesive-free grasping portion.
  • the adhesive-free grasping portion may be formed by deadening the adhesive disposed upon the tab 22" or pattern applying the adhesive on the label 40" or film 12" such that no adhesive is disposed on the portion of label 40" that becomes tab 22".
  • FIG. 57 illustrates another package 10" having an unsealed inner surface 50" of the tab, which can be grasped by a consumer with one hand, while the package may grasped with the other.
  • the label 40" may then be pulled backward to expose opening 44", as shown in FIG. 51.
  • the label 40" is preferably not pulled entirely off package 10" during use, and therefore, the trailing end seal 18" may be form a non-peelable or permanent seal between the label 40' ' and the film 12".
  • both ends of the package 10" will be able to have label 40" peeled upwards, and thus, both end seals may be peelable.
  • the score 42" illustrated in FIG. 6 may be used along with a label 40" and two tabs at both ends of the package 10' ' . This permits a user to open the package 10' ' at either end with reseaiable seals provided for both openings.
  • package 10" may be formed in a variety of processes.
  • a laminated film 12" has at least two polymer film layers 12a" and 12b" attached with, a pressure sensitive adhesive 30".
  • the film layer 12a" may have a score 58" formed therein to create a label 40".
  • Be film layer 12b” may have a score 42" formed therein to define opening 44".
  • the score formation may occur before or after lamination of the film layers 12a, 12b, but preferably after lamination, In this configuration, the film thickness may be in the rage of about 1.8 to 3.0 mils. By one approach, the film may be about 2.1 mils for this type of configuration.
  • FIG. 60 One exemplary manner of forming film packages 10" is illustrated as 60" in FIG. 60.
  • Process 60" is similar to that discussed above and illustrated in FIG. 44.
  • FIG. 61 illustrates a schematic cross section of the seal jaws that may be employed with process 60".
  • the various configurations of the flexible film package disclosed herein may be provided a package integrity feature that, would indicate to a consumer whether or not the package has been previously opened.
  • the flexible film may be rolled, folded, or otherwise flattened to evacuate air from inside of the package. Then, the elongated closure layer 14 may be wrapped over the rolled film and the product within the package making the package smaller, with less air space and, thus, may improve shelf-life of the product (see, e.g., FIG. 59),
  • Such configurations are generally employed for packages without a structural support, such as a frame or tray; however, it is also anticipated that such a configuration may be employed with certain structural snpports, depending on the configuration of the structural support and the flexible film.
  • illustrative flexible packages can include variations and combinations of pull tabs, multiple lines of weakness formed in and beyond die end seals into end portions extending beyond the end seals between the trailing end seals and the leading end seals of packages formed in a series, a perimeter score formed around the end seals alone or in combination of the multiple lines of weakness, and various scoring patterns to add further variety and utility to hie package openings,
  • some embodiments may be formed from other materials including, but not limited to paper, paperboard (including poly- lined paperboard), rigid and semi-rigid polymers, metals, foils, composites, and the like.
  • Materials can be selected based on the need for package integrity, maintaining shape, maintaining a barrier (such as an oxygen or moisture barrier), light barrier, and the like.
  • the flexible film has two opposing edge portions that meet to form a longitudinal seal extending from a first end seal to a second end seal
  • the package material can be an extruded polypropylene resin to form a hollow tube.
  • Vertical form and fill packages as described above and shown in Figs. 190-196 can also be provided, including gusseted embodiments, such as shown in Fig. 190.
  • the flexible, film may have a "score" as described above that defines a package opening upon initial rupture or initial opening, hi addition to the score patterns described above, FIGS, .161 -189 show additional score pattern configurations. It is noted mat in some embodiments where the score line is enclosed (or partially enclosed), such as FIGS. 167, 170, 175, 1 80-183, 186 and 187.
  • the score may create a cut away portion (film portion surrounded by a score) that remains adhered to the closure layer via the pressure sensitive adhesive when the closure layer is lifted away from the package. The cut. away portion may create a larger opening into the package when the closure layer is lifted from the package.
  • die embodiments can also include tear propagation restrictions such as J -hooks (FIG. 161), Sheppard hooks (FIG. 169), or smile hooks (FIG. 188).
  • closure layer (label) which can be built into die film as a laminate, applied discreetly to a package surface (such as the surface that will become the interior or exterior surface of a flexible film), or applied continuously to the package material prior to forming the package (which can be applied as the interior or exterior surface of a flexible film).
  • Continuous closure layer applications such as shown, for example, in Fig.l and 18, can be formed from flexible film which has had a label pre-applied (see Fig. 23).
  • label 14 Exemplary variations of the elongated or continuous closure layer (label 14) are shown in Figs, 152-160, 185, 189-196, It is noted though that in continuous label embodiments the label can be applied to the longitudinal axis of the package (i.e., from one end seal to another) or even transverse to the longitudinal axis, such as shown in FIG. 191(frorn side to side), A closure layer score or top cut 13 (see FIG. 154) of label 14 provides a cut or separation of the label such that a narrower portion of the label is lifted from the package at that point such that the user has an easier time opening the package. Since pressure sensitive adhesive is disposed between the label 14 and the film 12, die area of label 14 between the edges of the label and the score opening 2200 facilitates resealing of the package after initial opening.
  • the elongated closure layer preferably extends over the score and extends from the first end seal (or to the first package end) to the second end seal (or second package end) and within the opposing edge portions that meet to form the longitudinal seal.
  • a pressure sensitive adhesive may be located between the flexible film and the elongated closure layer. It is also noted that in embodiments where film is removed from an enclosed score line, the label ' s exposed pressure sensitive adhesive directed to the package interior can be deadened prior to placement of the label onto the package.
  • the embodiments described herein can provide several types of lines of weakness 2400 (see e.g., tab scores 15 described above) to facilitate the separation of film from the closure layer.
  • Some illustrative examples can be found in FIGS, 99-144.
  • the lines of weakness 2400 are within the leading end seal region, but can also extend beyond die end seal in the direction away from the package interior and into die free ends between the end seals of adjacent packages.
  • the lines of weakness do not extend on the film towards the package interior. Otherwise, the lines of weakness could tear into the film.
  • the lines of weakness may be nested, such as shown in FIG. 12 L in some applications, the lines do not overlap at any point along the rise and fall of the line (see e.g., FIG 117).
  • the multiplicity of the lines of weakness allow for the reduction in accuracy of alignment of the score within the end seals, thus providing ease of alignment of the lines of weakness scoring device.
  • the lines of weakness 2400a in FIG. 99 provide reduced lateral force as the peel tab is pulled dow to open the score line defining the package interior.
  • the multiple sinusoidal ridges allow opening at several points along the length of the end seal. It is noted that angular and pointed multiple lines of weakness are preferably provided with at least a small radius in the range of about 0,1 mm to 25 mm (preferably in the range of about 0.25 mm to 2.5 mm) to reduce tear propagation.
  • FIGS. 80-98 illustrate some approaches.
  • Perimeter score 2300 is designed to catch the tear propagation across the lines of weakness 2400 as the package is opened such that at least one of the lines of weakness will tear and terminate at the perimeter score after opening.
  • the perimeter score 2300 preferably does not touch the lines of weakness 2400.
  • a perimeter score can be added to a package configuration without a line of weakness.
  • the perimeter score is oriented within the package end seal and extends distally from the package interior outward and, where present, upward around the multiple lines of weakness. In other words, the perimeter score extends distal to the package body and toward die free ends/edges of the package. The perimeter score can extend to the flexible film edge, even if the flexible film extends beyond end seal.
  • FIGS. 146-160 show a portion of a series of packages that axe ultimately cut along line 2100a (also, see separation line at 2102, FIGS, 152-153).
  • FIG. 152 shows a portion of a series of packages that axe ultimately cut along line 2100a (also, see separation line at 2102, FIGS, 152-153).
  • tab 2100a is formed in the gripping portion of the free end portions of the film between the packages that are not joined by end seals, in the free end portion of the flexible film front and rear package panels are not connected allowing a user to pull the tabs 2100a apart,
  • the top panel of the package is a film/label laminate. As a user pulls the film label/laminate away from the package, resistance is met when the end sea! 28 is reached.
  • the peel force of the pressure sensitive adhesive between the label and film is less than the pee! force of the end seal,
  • the label begins to delaminate from the flexible film as the peeling reaches a first line of weakness 2400 within the end seal
  • the first line of (weakness 2400a) is the point of delarninating of the label from the film.
  • Line of weakness 2400a is sinusoidal in shape and according can provide several points of delarnination evenly across the length of the line of weakness.
  • a perimeter score 2300f causes a label delarninating from the film without a line of weakness 2400.
  • FIGS. 190-196 a vertical formed and filled bag 2500 is shown in two configurations.
  • FIGS. 190, 192 and 194 show a package 2500a having a gusset 2508, while FIGS. 191, 193, 195-196 illustrate packages without a gusset, instead, packages 2500b have a longitudinal seal (not shown), in the package illustrated in FIG. 194, label 14 is a discrete label applied in the region of end seal 28 and covering a perimeter score 2502.
  • label 14 is applied continuously transversely to the longitudinal axis of the package.
  • label 14 is applied continuously along the longitudinal axis of the package.
  • a perimeter score 2502 is scored into film 12 beneath label 14 and end seal 28.
  • this enibodimeni there is no film score to provide a package opening. Accordingly, the package is opened similar to opening a conventional fin seal package. That is. to peel open the end a user grabs the package front and back film layers and pulls the end seal 28 apart to expose the interior of the package through the package end, hi this embodiment, a portion of the end seal remains intact as defined by the perimeter score. This portion is shown at 2504 in FIG. 190.
  • the end seal peel force being stronger than the peel force of the label PSA. Since a portion of the PSA is exposed, a nser can tack closed the opening at the end seal by pinching the film and label layers adjacent to the in tact end seal
  • Fig. 196 shows a blank of a package shown in FIG. 195 having first end seal area (leading seal area) 42a, second end seal area (trailing seal area) 42b, longitudinal seal area 42c and fold lines 2506.
  • a scoring pattern is possible to practice this embodiment.
  • a series of holes such as shown on Fig. 123 could also be used as well as any oilier lines of weakness that are enclosed (e.g., 120, 124, 125-128, 130, 133-135).
  • the present embodiments can also vary tab 2100 configurations as shown in FIGS. 70- 79.
  • the variations can be geometric such as round (FIG. 70), pyramid (FIG. 76), trapezoid (FIG. 72), horizontal (FIG. 74), square (FIG. 77), etc. Variations can also be positional, such as an offset (FIG. 73) or side pull (FIG. 70).
  • tab 2100 can be form by notches in the film to initiate tear propagation.
  • the end labs are form as the packages are cut apart to form package leading and trailing edges, such as shown at cut line 2102 in FIG. 152.
  • end seals 28 and 29 are shown as horizontal lines.
  • the lines of weakness 2400at are horizontal lines.
  • the end seals could be formed as sinusoidal wave patterns.
  • temper evidence features can also be added such as found in FIGS. 157-160.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Bag Frames (AREA)
  • Containers And Plastic Fillers For Packaging (AREA)
  • Auxiliary Devices For And Details Of Packaging Control (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention porte sur des emballages en film souple, lesquels emballages présentent une étanchéité initiale partielle vis-à-vis de l'atmosphère ambiante, et peuvent être facilement ouverts et refermés. Les emballages en film souple peuvent généralement être refermés de façon à prolonger la durée de vie en magasin ou la fraîcheur de produits contenus à l'intérieur de ceux-ci une fois que l'emballage est initialement ouvert. Selon une approche, le film souple presente deux parties de bord opposées qui se rencontrent de façon à former un joint d'étanchéité longitudinal s'étendant à partir d'un premier joint d'étanchéité d'extrémité jusqu'à un second joint d'étanchéité d'extrémité. Le film souple peut avoir une entaille (16) qui définit une ouverture d'emballage (36). Une couche de fermeture allongée (14) peut s'étendre sur l'entaille et peut s'étendre à partir d'un premier joint d'étanchéité d'extrémité (26) jusqu'à un second joint d'étanchéité d'extrémité (28) et à l'intérieur des parties de bord opposées qui forment le joint d'étanchéité longitudinal (24). La couche de fermeture allongée peut avoir une partie de saisie non collante utilisée pour libérer au moins une partie de la fermeture allongée à partir du film souple de façon à former l'ouverture d'emballage.
EP12724478.8A 2011-05-18 2012-05-17 Emballage souple refermable, laminé et procede de fabrication Active EP2709910B1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

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PL12724478T PL2709910T3 (pl) 2011-05-18 2012-05-17 Elastyczne opakowania z możliwością wielokrotnego zamykania oraz ich laminat i metoda wytwarzania

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/US2011/037054 WO2011146658A1 (fr) 2010-05-18 2011-05-18 Emballage flexible refermable et ses procédés de fabrication
US13/300,317 US9656783B2 (en) 2010-05-18 2011-11-18 Reclosable flexible packaging and methods for manufacturing same
PCT/US2012/038387 WO2012166381A1 (fr) 2011-05-18 2012-05-17 Emballage souple pouvant être refermé et procédés pour sa fabrication

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EP2709910A1 true EP2709910A1 (fr) 2014-03-26
EP2709910B1 EP2709910B1 (fr) 2015-07-08

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CN (1) CN103648913B (fr)
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BR (1) BR112013029447A2 (fr)
CA (1) CA2835900A1 (fr)
ES (1) ES2549555T3 (fr)
MX (1) MX2013013469A (fr)
PE (1) PE20141815A1 (fr)
PL (1) PL2709910T3 (fr)
RU (1) RU2013155237A (fr)
WO (1) WO2012166381A1 (fr)

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WO2016184818A1 (fr) 2015-05-15 2016-11-24 Nestec S.A. Emballage et son procédé de réalisation
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PL3159280T3 (pl) * 2016-01-14 2018-12-31 Amcor Flexibles Burgdorf Gmbh Opakowanie wielokrotnego zamykania oraz sposób jego wytwarzania
AR113136A1 (es) * 2017-09-22 2020-01-29 Dow Global Technologies Llc Envase recerrable que incluye una película recerrable
WO2020008102A1 (fr) * 2018-07-02 2020-01-09 Upm Raflatac Oy Emballage inviolable
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AR086499A1 (es) 2013-12-18
JP2014518817A (ja) 2014-08-07
BR112013029447A2 (pt) 2017-01-17
ES2549555T3 (es) 2015-10-29
CN103648913B (zh) 2016-09-14
RU2013155237A (ru) 2015-06-27
MX2013013469A (es) 2014-02-17
AU2012262847A1 (en) 2013-11-21
CN103648913A (zh) 2014-03-19
EP2709910B1 (fr) 2015-07-08
PE20141815A1 (es) 2014-11-19
JP6267113B2 (ja) 2018-01-24
CA2835900A1 (fr) 2012-12-06
PL2709910T3 (pl) 2015-12-31
WO2012166381A1 (fr) 2012-12-06

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