JP6610966B2 - Storage bag with dimple characteristics - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a storage bag. More particularly, the present invention relates to a storage bag having properties that facilitate sealing and unsealing of the bag, as well as a storage bag that includes properties for distinguishing the bag from other storage bags.

  Storage bags made of flexible plastic materials are well known. Such storage bags are made in a variety of sizes and can be used to house a variety of items including food, utensils, clothing, tools, and the like. Such storage bags often include some type of zipper-like closure mechanism for removably sealing the interior of the bag. Plastic storage bags with a closure mechanism are sold under the trademark ZIPLOC® by the assignee of the present application.

  Plastic storage bag closure mechanisms often include two interlocking structures provided on or near the top lip of the bag. To seal the closure mechanism, the user moves his / her finger along the closure mechanism to squeeze the interlock members together. When operating in a particular manner, it is easier to fully engage the interlock members over their entire length, but the user does not necessarily know the proper technique for performing this operation. Absent.

  To open the bag, the user grips the lip and pulls the interlock structure apart. However, plastic storage bags usually have a smooth surface that is difficult to grasp. Furthermore, when gripping a bag in a specific area, it is often easier to pull the interlock structure apart and a specific movement is applied to the interlock member. However, as in the case of sealing a bag, the user does not necessarily know the proper technique for opening the bag.

  Storage bags are often placed in place with other storage bags due to their vast functionality. For example, storage bags containing different products are often stored in a refrigerator or freezer. In such cases, it may be difficult to quickly or easily distinguish the contents of one bag from the contents of another bag. Therefore, it would be beneficial to provide a storage bag with properties to make it easier to seal and open the storage bag. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to provide a storage bag that can be easily distinguished from each other.

US Pat. No. 5,070,584 US Pat. No. 7,784,160 US Pat. No. 7,946,766 US Pat. No. 8,061,898 US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0324141 US Pat. No. 5,140,727 US Pat. No. 6,983,845 US Pat. No. 8,096,329 US Pat. No. 8,197,138 US Pat. No. 8,179,139 US Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0099806

  According to one aspect of the invention, a storage bag is provided. The storage bag includes a first side surface and a second side surface connected to the first side surface so as to form an interior with an opening to the interior of the bag. A first closure profile is connected to the first side surface and disposed adjacent to the opening of the bag, the first closure profile extending along the length of the first closure profile An interlock member extending between the first side of the closure profile and the second side of the first closure profile. The first closure profile also includes a plurality of dimples provided adjacent to the interlock member, the dimples having a concave surface on the first closure profile side facing the interior of the bag and a first dimple on the outside of the bag. 1 is formed as a convex surface on the closed profile side. The bag also includes a second closure profile connected to the second side surface and disposed adjacent to the opening of the bag. The second closure profile includes an interlock member extending between at least a length of the second closure profile between the first side of the second closure profile and the second side of the second closure profile. The interlock member is configured to interlock with the interlock member of the first closure profile so as to form a seal for the bag opening. The second closure profile also includes a plurality of dimples provided adjacent to the interlock member, the dimples having a convex surface on the first closure profile side facing the interior of the bag and a first dimple on the outside of the bag. 2 formed as a concave surface on the closed profile side. Each dimple on the first closure profile is aligned opposite to a corresponding dimple on the second closure profile, and the concave surface of the dimple of the first closure profile has an interlock member of the first closure profile. When interlocked with the interlocking member of the second closure profile, it is received at least partially within the space defined by the convex surface of the dimples of the second closure profile.

  According to another aspect of the invention, the storage bag has a first side surface and a second side connected to the first side surface so as to form an interior with an opening to the interior of the bag. A side surface. A first closure profile is connected to the first side surface and disposed adjacent to the opening of the bag, the first closure profile extending along the length of the first closure profile An interlock member extending between the first side of the closure profile and the second side of the first closure profile. The first closure profile includes a plurality of alignment structures provided adjacent to the interlock member, the plurality of alignment structures including a ridge surface on the first closure profile side facing the interior of the bag, and the bag Formed as a groove surface on the outer side of the first closing profile. The bag also includes a second closure profile connected to the second side surface and disposed adjacent to the opening of the bag, wherein the second closure profile is at least the length of the second closure profile. Along the length, includes an interlock member extending between the first side of the second closure profile and the second side of the second closure profile. The interlock member is configured to interlock with the interlock member of the first closure profile so as to form a seal for the bag opening, the second closure profile being adjacent to the interlock member. And a plurality of alignment structures provided. The plurality of alignment structures are formed as a groove surface on the second closure profile side facing the interior of the bag and a ridge surface on the second closure profile side outside the bag. Each alignment structure on the first closure profile is aligned opposite the alignment structure on the second closure profile, and the ridge surface of the alignment structure of the first closure profile is Received at least partially within the space defined by the groove surface of the alignment structure.

  According to another aspect of the invention, a first side surface and a second side surface connected to the first side surface so as to form an interior with an opening to the interior of the bag; A storage bag is provided. The first closure profile is connected to the first side surface and is positioned adjacent to the opening of the bag. The first closure profile includes an interlock member extending along a length of the first closure profile between the first side of the first closure profile and the second side of the first closure profile. The first closure profile also includes a plurality of dimples provided adjacent to the interlock member. The dimples are formed as a concave surface on the first closing profile side facing the interior of the bag and a convex surface on the first closing profile side outside the bag. The bag further includes a second closure profile disposed on the second side surface and disposed adjacent to the opening of the bag. The second closure profile includes an interlock member extending between at least a length of the second closure profile between the first side of the second closure profile and the second side of the second closure profile. The interlock member is configured to interlock with the interlock member of the first closure profile so as to form a seal for the bag opening. The second closure profile also includes a plurality of dimples provided adjacent to the interlock member. The dimples are formed as a convex surface on the first closing profile side facing the interior of the bag and a concave surface on the second closing profile side outside the bag. The dimples on the first closure profile are offset from the dimples on the second closure profile.

It is a side view of the bag by one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the top end of the bag shown in FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2. It is a figure of the top end part of the bag shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a view showing a state in which the bag shown in FIG. 1 is gripped and opened. FIG. 6 is a side view of a bag according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a side view of a bag according to another embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure of the top end part of the bag shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a view of a bag according to another embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure of the top end part of the bag shown in FIG. It is a side view of the bag by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a side view of the bag by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a side view of the bag by one Embodiment of this invention. 1 is a side view of a bag having a colored lip according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a side view of the bag shown in FIG. 1 with a colored lip; FIG. FIG. 7 is a side view of the bag shown in FIG. 6 with a colored lip. FIG. 6 is a side view of a bag according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a detailed view of section A shown in FIG. 14. It is a figure of the top end part of the bag shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a side view of a bag according to a further embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the top end of the bag shown in FIG. 17 taken along line 18-18. FIG. 6 is a side view of a bag according to a further embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the top end of the bag shown in FIG. 19 taken along line 20-20. FIG. 6 is a side view of a bag according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the top end of the bag shown in FIG. 21 taken along line 22-22. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the top end of the bag shown in FIG. 21 taken along line 23-23. FIG. 6 is a side view of a bag according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a side view of a bag according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a side view of a bag according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

  The present invention relates to a plastic storage bag that includes properties that facilitate sealing and opening of the bag. The present invention also relates to a storage bag that includes characteristics for distinguishing the bag from other storage bags. Thereby, the characteristics of the present invention provide a plastic storage bag that is easy to use and easily distinguishable.

  As is apparent from the description herein, the term “bag” encompasses a wide range of structures designed to accommodate articles such as pouches, envelopes, wraps and the like. In general, the term “bag” as used herein simply means a somewhat flexible container with an opening, and the bag can carry any number of items.

  1-5 are views of a bag 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The bag 100 includes a first side surface 102 and a second side surface 104. The first side surface 102 and the second side surface 104 are connected along edges 106 and 108, and the first side surface 102 and the second side surface 104 are bags. The bottom edge 110 of 100 is also connected. An opening 103 into the interior of the bag 100 is formed adjacent to the edges 112 and 113 defined by the closure profiles 107 and 109, as described below. The first side surface 102 and the second side surface 104 can be made of a substantially transparent plastic, such as the plastic discussed below, thereby simplifying the contents inside the bag. It becomes possible to judge. Alternatively, the first side surface 102 and the second side surface 104 can be made of a substantially opaque material or a completely opaque material.

  In some embodiments, the side surface 102 and the side surface 104 are connected together directly at the edges 106, 108 and 110. Side surface 102 and side surface 104 can be laminated together, for example, at edges 106, 108 and 110. However, in other embodiments, additional surfaces may be provided to connect the first side surface 102 and the second side surface 104. For example, a gusset-type connection can be formed between the first side surface 102 and the second side surface 104 at the edges 106, 108 and 110, so that the first side surface 102. And the second side surface 104 can be separated to form a deployment bag configuration. In accordance with these contexts, the term “connected” as used herein refers to two structures attached directly to each other, but connected through an intermediate structure. Note that this is a general term that also includes

  The first closure profile 107 and the second closure profile 109 define the top edges 112 and 113, and the first closure profile 107 and the second closure profile 109 form the top portion of the bag 100. The closure profiles 107 and 109 include interlocking members 114, 116, 118 and 120 for sealing the opening 103 of the bag 100. As shown in FIG. 2, the interlock member 114 extends from the first closure profile 107, and the interlock member 118 extends from the second closure profile 109 in a position opposite the interlock member 114. The interlock member 114 and the interlock member 118 can be interlocked and unlocked, and the interlock member 114 is a convex profile received by the concave interlock member 118. Herein, such an interlock between the interlock member 114 and the interlock member 118 is also referred to as “occlusion”. The interlock member 116 extends from the first closure profile 107 and the interlock member 120 extends from the second closure profile 109. The interlock members 116 and 120 can be engaged in the same manner as the interlock members 114 and 118. An interlock member such as that shown in FIG. 2 is often referred to as a zipper, as is known in the art. Examples of various shapes and configurations of such interlock members that can be used with the storage bags disclosed herein are disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,070,584, US Pat. No. 7,784,160, US Pat. No. 7,946,766, US Pat. No. 8,061,898, and US Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0324141, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

  The bag 100 is sealed by the user pressing the interlock members 114 and 116 against the interlock members 118 and 120. It is known that starting from the end of the interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120, the user can most easily perform this process by moving his finger over the entire length of the bag. When opening the bag 100, the user pulls the interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120 apart by gripping the bag lips 126 and 128 and releasing the closure profiles 107 and 109. As described below, generally, when the lips 126 and 128 are gripped toward the center of the length of the closure profiles 107 and 109, the closure profiles 107 and 109 are released and the interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120 are opened. It is easier for the user to do.

  The interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120 can be configured to provide an audible sound and / or haptic sensation when engaged with each other. Various techniques are known for providing such audible and tactile characteristics, one example being intermittent notches along the profile length of the interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120. Providing, or more generally, not interlocking members 114, 116, 118, and 120 continuous along their length. Due to the indentation or discontinuous structure, the interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120 are closed together with a vibration or sensation, or with an audible click sound, or with both a sensation and audible click sound. An example of providing audible or tactile properties to a bag interlock member can be found in US Pat. No. 5,140,727, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

  While the bag 100 described herein includes two pairs of interlock members 114 and 118 and interlock members 116 and 120, other embodiments of the bag include only a pair of interlock members. It is noted that a single interlocking member extending from the first closure profile of the bag can be included that can be connected to an interlocking member extending from the second closure profile of the bag. I want. Still other embodiments can include more than two pairs of interlock members. It should also be noted that the interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120 do not necessarily extend completely to the edge of the bag 100. For example, in some embodiments, the bag 100 may include an unfolded sealing section at the edges 106 and 108 of the bag 100, and the interlock members 114, 116, 118, and 120 are simply one seal. It is configured such that it extends from the stop section to the other sealing section and does not extend all the way to the edges 106 and 108 of the bag 100. In this regard, references herein that the interlock members 114, 116, 118, and 120 "extend" between the closure profile 107 side and the closure profile 109 side are not necessarily the interlock members 114, 116, 118, and It does not necessarily indicate that 120 extends all the way to the edges of the closure profiles 107 and 109.

  The first side surface 102 and the second side surface 104 and the first closure profile 107 and the second closure profile 109 are made of thermoplastic material by known processes well known in the art. Can be formed. For example, the side surfaces 102 and 104 can be independently extruded from a thermoplastic material as a single continuous web or multi-layer web, and the closure profiles 107 and 109 are separately elongated or strands. Can be extruded from the same or different thermoplastic materials. The first closure profile 107 and the second closure profile 109 may be integrally formed (and thus “connected”) to the side surfaces 102 and 104 of the bag 100. Alternatively, the first closure profile 107 and the second closure profile 109 may, for example, replace the first closure profile 107 and the second closure profile 109 with the first side surface 102 and the second side surface. By laminating to 104, it can be formed as separate structures that are attached (and thus “connected”) to the first side surface 102 and the second side surface 104.

  Exemplary thermoplastic materials that can be used to form the bag 100 include, for example, among polypropylene plastomers, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), metallocene polyethylene (mPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), Examples include linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), ultra low density polyethylene (ULDPE), biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BPET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and combinations and mixtures thereof. Still other materials that can be used include styrene block copolymers, polyolefin blends, elastomeric alloys, thermoplastic polyurethanes, thermoplastic copolyesters, thermoplastic polyamides, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymers and copolymers, polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), Examples include Saran polymer, ethylene / vinyl acetate copolymer, cellulose acetate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), ionomer, polystyrene, polycarbonate, styrene acrylonitrile, aromatic polyester, chain polyester, and thermoplastic polyvinyl alcohol. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that a wide variety of other materials can be used to form the bag 100.

  FIG. 3 shows a detailed view of the top end of bag 100 of closure profiles 107 and 109 having edges 112 and 113. Bag 100 includes offset first lip 126 and second lip 128 extending from interlocking members 114 and 118 to top edges 112 and 113. Lips 126 and 128 are configured such that a characteristic notch 130 is formed in region X of top edges 112 and 113 of bag 100.

  To form the notch 130, the first lip 126 includes a first portion (right side of FIG. 3) that extends a distance H1 from the interlock member 114 to the top edge 112 along the length of a portion of the bag. . The first lip 126 also includes a second portion (left side of FIG. 3) that extends a second distance H2 from the interlock member 114 to the top edge 112 along another portion of the length of the bag 100. . The distance H1 is greater than the distance H2, and thus the first lip 126 includes in the region X a third portion in which the distance from the interlock member 114 to the top edge 112 varies from H1 to H2.

  The second lip 128 is configured similarly to the first lip 126 except that portions of the second lip 128 are reversed from the first lip 126. The second lip 128 includes a first portion (left side in FIG. 3) extending from the interlock member 118 to the top edge 113 by a distance H3, and a second portion extending from the interlock member 118 to the top edge 113 by a distance H4. And the distance H3 is larger than the distance H2. Accordingly, the second lip 128 includes, in the region X, a third portion in which the distance from the interlock member 118 to the top edge 113 varies from H3 to H4.

  A first portion of the first lip 126 that extends a distance H1 is disposed adjacent to a second portion of the second lip 128 that extends a distance H4 and a second portion of the first lip 126 that extends a distance H2. The portion is disposed adjacent to the first portion of the second lip 128 that extends a distance H3. The third portions of the first lip 126 and the second lip 128, which vary in distance from the corresponding interlocking members 114 and 118 to the edges 112 and 113, respectively, are disposed adjacent to each other. Thus, the top edges 112 and 113 form a characteristic notch 130 in region X.

  The offset between the lips 126 and 128, and the notch 130 formed accordingly, makes it easier for the user to grip the lips 126 and 128 and open the interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120. As shown in FIG. 4, the notch 130 provides a visual cue that guides the user to grip the first lip 126 and the second lip 128 in the region X of the top edges 112 and 113 of the bag 100. And because of their configuration, the lips 126 and 128 can be easily gripped in region X. Further, when gripping lips 126 and 128 in region X, the user achieves an outward rolling motion of first closure profile 107 and second closure profile 109 as indicated by arrow Y in FIG. can do. This rolling movement of the lips 126 and 128 away from each other greatly facilitates the separation of the first closure profile 107 and the second closure profile 109, and therefore the opening of the interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120. It becomes easier.

  Region X provided with notch 130 is in the center of the length of bag 100 shown in FIGS. 1-5, but in other embodiments, region X and notch 130 are offset from the center of length of bag 100. Please note that you may. That is, the length of each portion of the first lip 126 and the second lip 128 can be adjusted to provide regions X and notches 130 at various locations along the top end of the bag 100. Also, in FIG. 3, the distance H1 is shown as being approximately equal to the distance H3, and in FIG. 3, the distance H2 is shown as being approximately equal to the distance H4, but in other embodiments these distances are equal. Note that it is not necessary. Instead, H1 and H3 may be different, and H2 and H4 may be different. Indeed, such differences can provide additional visual cues for the different lips 126 and 128, making it easier for the user to determine where to grip the lips 126 and 128.

  To make it easier to grip the lips 126 and 128, grip ridges 122, 124 and 125 are provided on the surfaces of the first lip 126 and the second lip 128, as shown in FIGS. The Such grip ridges 122, 124, and 125 may be provided on both the inner and outer surfaces of the first lip 126 and the second lip 128, while the inner sides of the first lip 126 and the second lip 128. Provided only on the surface, or only on the outer surface, or a combination of the inner and outer surfaces of the first lip 126 and the second lip 128, for example, the outer surface of the lip 126 and the inner side of the lip 128 May be provided on the surface. Further, any number of grip ridges can be added to the inner and outer surfaces of lips 126 and 128. However, in yet other embodiments, no grip ridge is provided on the bag 100.

  In addition to or instead of the grip ridges 122 and 124, the surfaces of the lips 126 and 128 may also include a texture 127 as shown in the bag 100 'shown in FIG. The texture 127 makes it easier to grip the lips 126 and 128, thus making it easier to open the bag 100 '. Such a texture 127 can be easily formed on the lips 126 and 128 using various techniques, one example being embossing. Other techniques include sonication and blasting using sand or water jets to abrade the surface. Regardless of the technique, when adding texture 127 to lips 126 and 128, maintaining the integrity of grip ridges 122, 123, 124, and 125 by not forming texture 127 on grip ridges 122, 123, 124, and 125 can do. That is, the grip ridges 122, 123, 124, and 125 are not substantially damaged by the pattern of the texture 127, so the grip ridges 122, 123, 124, and 125 are substantially continuous along the top end of the bag 100. Extend. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the texture 127 can be formed by a variety of techniques, one example being ultrasonic embossing.

  By combining two different grip-promoting properties, namely grip ridges 122, 123, 124 and 125, and texture 127, the user can easily grip when opening interlock members 114, 116, 118 and 120. Provides a particularly effective grip surface that can. In addition, texture 127 provides another visual cue for placing lips 126 and 128.

  6 and 7 show a bag 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The bag 200 is configured in the same manner as the bag 100 described above except for the configuration of the first closing profile 207 and the second closing profile 209. In the bag 200, the first lip 226 extends from the interlock member 214 to the top edge 212 of the first closure profile 207 by a substantially constant distance H1. On the other hand, the second lip 228 of the second closure profile 209 extends from the interlock member 218 to the top edge 213 by a distance H2 and from the interlock member 218 to the top edge 213 by a distance H3. A second portion and a third portion extending a distance H4 from the interlock member 218 to the top edge 213; Second lip 228 also includes a portion that varies from distance H2 to H4 and a portion that varies from distance H3 to H4. However, it should be noted that in alternative embodiments, the portion of the second lip 228 where the distance from the interlock member 218 to the top edge 213 varies may be omitted. That is, the bag 200 can be provided such that the first portion of the distance H2 transitions directly to the second portion of the distance H3 and the second portion of the distance H3 transitions directly to the third portion of the distance H4. . Also, in the present embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the distance H2 and the distance H3 are shown as being substantially equal, but in other embodiments, the distance H2 and the distance H3 are different. .

  The bag 200 is configured such that the distance H1 is greater than the distances H2 and H3, but the distance H1 is less than the distance H4. Accordingly, a portion of the lip 228 formed by the second closure profile 209 extends above the top edge 212 formed by the first closure profile 207. Thus, the first lip 226 and the second lip 228 are easily distinguishable, and the user can place the lips 226 and 228 where to open the interlock members 214, 216, 218, and 220. A visual cue about what to grip is provided. Further, the user is guided to grip the lips 226 and 228 in the central region of the bag 200 with the second lip 228 extending above the first lip 226. By gripping the lips 226 and 228 in the central region, the user can easily separate the first closure profile 207 and the second closure profile 209 as described above in connection with FIG. The lip can be imparted with a rolling motion that facilitates opening of the members 214, 216, 218 and 220.

  8 and 9 show a bag 300 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The bag 300 is configured in the same manner as the bags 100 and 200 described above, except for the first closure profile 307 and the second closure profile 309. In this embodiment, the first lip 326 includes a first portion that extends a distance H 1 from the interlock member 314 to the edge 312 of the first closure profile 307. The first lip 326 also includes a second portion that extends a distance H2 from the interlock member 314 to the edge 312 and a third portion that extends a distance H3 from the interlock member 314 to the edge 312. The second lip 328 also includes three portions, the first portion extending from the interlock member 318 to the edge 313 of the second closure profile 309 by a distance H4, and the second portion is the interlock member 318. The third portion extends from the interlock member 318 to the edge 313 by a distance H6. Each portion of the first lip 326 and the second lip 328 is configured to form two notches 330 and 332 at the top end of the bag 300. Also, each portion of the lips 326 and 328 is configured to form a tab, and the portion extending by the distance H5 of the second lip 328 is above the portion extending by the distance H2 of the first lip 326. Notches 330 and 332 allow the user to easily distinguish between the first lip 326 and the second lip 328 and that the lip 326 and 328 should be gripped in the central region of the bag 300. Provide visual cues to show. In accordance with these contexts, gripping the lips 326 and 328 in the central region near the notches 330 and 332 allows the user to open the interlock members 314, 316, 318 and 320 as described above to facilitate opening. A rolling motion in the direction can be achieved.

  The bag 200 is configured such that the distance H1 is greater than the distances H2 and H3, but the distance H1 is less than the distance H4. Accordingly, a portion of the lip 228 formed by the second closure profile 209 extends above the top edge 212 formed by the first closure profile 207. Thus, the first lip 226 and the second lip 228 are easily distinguishable, and the user can find out which of the lips 226 and 228 to open the interlock members 214, 216, 218, and 220. A visual cue is provided as to whether or not to hold. Further, the user is guided to grip the lips 226 and 228 in the central region of the bag 200 with the second lip 228 extending above the first lip 226. By gripping the lips 226 and 228 in the central region, the user facilitates the separation of the first closure profile 207 and the second closure profile 209 as described above in connection with FIG. The lip can be imparted with a rolling motion that facilitates opening of the members 214, 216, 218 and 220.

  10A, 10B, and 10C show bags 300A, 300B, and 300C according to further embodiments of the present invention. In these embodiments, lips 326A, 326B, and 326C are at least partially offset from lips 328A, 328B, and 328C, respectively. As shown in FIGS. 10B and 10C, a plurality of tabs are formed in the bags 300B and 300C as a result of the offset between the lips 326B and 326C and the lips 328B and 328C. These multiple tabs provide additional visual cues for locations where bags 300B and 300C can be gripped when opening the opening.

  FIG. 11 shows a bag 400 according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the lip 426 of the first closure profile 407 extends from the interlock member 414 by a distance H1, and the lip 428 of the second closure profile 409 extends from the interlock member 418 by a distance H2. The distance H2 is greater than the distance H1, so that over the entire length of the bag 400, the edge 413 formed by the second closure profile 409 is more interlocked than the edge 412 formed by the first closure profile 407. Separated from members 414 and 418.

  To help distinguish between the first lip 426 and the second lip 428, the lips 426 and 428 are colored. In fact, when looking at the bag 400 with attention to the first side surface 402 or the second side surface 404, the area where the first lip 426 overlaps the second lip 428 is the second lip 428. Compared to the area where the first lip 426 does not overlap, it appears as a significantly darker color or as a significantly darker shade. Thus, the user can easily distinguish between the first lip 426 and the second lip 428 and where the user should grasp the bag 400 when opening the interlock members 414, 416, 418 and 420. Is easier to judge.

  As is clear from the discussion herein, the reference to “darker colors” and the reference to “darker shades” have different meanings. The CIELAB color space is a common technique for quantifying color and hue. In this color space, L * represents the lightness or darkness of the color, and a * and b * represent the opposite color dimension based on non-linearly compressed CIE XYZ color space coordinates. The L * value, a * value and b * value for a particular sample color can be easily determined, for example, by using a spectrophotometer. As used herein, considering two color samples, a darker color sample is a sample whose a * and b * values show a darker color than the other samples, for example, an a * value that indicates yellow. And b * values are a * and b * values indicating a darker blue color. On the other hand, darker shades indicate two samples with substantially the same a * and b * values but different L * values, and samples with higher L * values are lighter shades. It is. In this regard, it should be noted that the term “color” as used herein encompasses black, white and gray tints. It should also be noted that substantially transparent plastic storage bags can be considered to have a particular “color” as discussed above and known in the art. When referring to the first and second colors or shades, as used herein, one of the first and second colors or shades is the rest of the bag, including the substantially transparent portion of the bag. Can be the same as part.

  The visual effect of the first lip 426 and the second lip 428 described herein could be achieved using different colors, where the a * value of the lips 426 and 428 and / or Or b * values are different. Qualitatively, the first lip 426 may appear green and the second lip 428 appears red. In such an embodiment, the two lips 426 and 428 may have the same L * value or different L * values. In other embodiments, the first lip 426 and the second lip 428 are provided as substantially the same color, i.e., the a * and b * values are substantially the same, but the L * values are different. In this case, the first lip 426 and the second lip 428 have different colors. In yet other embodiments, the first lip 426 and the second lip 428 are formed with the same color and shade. Moreover, when the bag is viewed from the first side surface 402 or the second side surface 404 due to the first lip 426 overlapping a portion of the second lip 428, the overlapping area is Of course, it appears darker than the portion of the second lip 428 where the first lip 426 does not overlap. Such an effect can be achieved, for example, by using larger thickness lips 426 and 428. In still other embodiments, the first lip 426 and the second lip 428 can be formed in different colors so that the overlapping portions of the lips 426 and 428 overlap the second lip 428. The color is different from the part that is not. For example, the second lip 428 is blue and the first lip 426 is yellow so that when the bag is viewed toward the first side surface 402 or the second side surface 404, the first lip 426 is yellow. The area where one lip 426 overlaps the second lip 428 is green.

  In certain embodiments, the L * values of the two lips 426 and 428 are approximately 30 different. As an example, the L * value of the darker first lip 426 is about 50 to about 70, more specifically, the L * value is about 55 to about 65, and even more particularly, the L * value is About 55 to about 60. The brighter second lip 428 has an L * value of about 60 to about 80, more particularly an L * value of about 65 to about 75, and even more particularly an L * value of about 70 to about 75. 75. In all of these configurations, the first lip 426 appears substantially darker than the second lip 428. Thus, the user can easily distinguish between the two lips 426 and lip 428 so that when opening the interlock members 414, 416, 418 and 420, the user knows where the bag 400 should be gripped. Makes it easier to judge.

  Various techniques can be used to color the lips 426 and 428. As an example, a liquid or solid colorant can be mixed with the resin prior to the extrusion operation to form the bag closure profiles 407 and 409. As a similar example, colors can be introduced by adding color resin pellets or liquid colorants to the pellet stream, during the extrusion process to form bag films and / or closure profiles 407 and 409 in the pellet stream. The color is homogenized throughout the plastic. In such a configuration, the coloring agent may be introduced through a separate extruder that is added to the entire extrusion process, for example by extruding the color layer onto the already formed closure profiles 407 and 409. it can. As another example, the color can be painted by painting or printing on the closure profiles 407 and 409. Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of other techniques can be used to color or shade the lips 426 and 428 of the bag 400.

  The bag 400 shown in FIG. 11 is formed such that the shorter first lip 426 has a darker or darker shade than the longer second lip 428, but in other embodiments, The coloring may be reversed. That is, the shorter first lip 426 can be lighter or lighter than the longer lip 428. The color contrast in such an embodiment can be further enhanced by simply providing a darker or darker shade in the portion of the second lip 428 where the first lip 426 does not overlap. Further, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the entire distances H1 and H2 between the interlock members 414 and 418 and the edges 412 and 413 are colored, while in other embodiments the distance H1 and There is no need to spread the color throughout H2. Alternatively, the color may be spread over a portion of the distances H1 and H2 of the lips 426 and 428.

In other embodiments, the color is not a solid block of lips 426 and 428.
Instead, the color can be applied, for example, in a continuous or intermittent pattern or shape. Examples of such patterns and shapes include hearts, flowers, trees and the like. In line with these contexts, the coloring of lip 426 or lip 428 may include multiple colors. Still further, as described above, one of the colors or shades of the first lip 426 and the second lip 428 may be the same as the rest of the bag. Thus, in one embodiment, the color of the first lip 426 is the same as the color of the substantially transparent side surface 402, but the lip 428 has two different colors. Those skilled in the art will recognize a wide range of coloring options for the lips 426 and 428 of the bag 400.

  The interlock members 414, 416, 418, and 420 can also be colored, and thus the lips 426 and 428 can be provided in the same or different colors. When colored, the interlock members 414, 416, 418 and 420 can be easily distinguished, thus making it easier for the user to seal and open the bag. Thus, by providing bag 400 with colored lips 426 and 428 and colored interlock members 414, 416, 418 and 420, the user can select the portion used to seal and open bag 400. Easy to identify.

  FIG. 12 shows a bag 500 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Bag 500 is configured similarly to bag 100 described above, except that lips 526 and 528 are colored. The first lip 526 is darker or darker than the second lip 528. Thus, the user can easily distinguish between the two lips 526 and 528. Further, the bag 500 is viewed toward the first side surface 504 or the second side surface 502 due to the overlap of the first lip 526 and the second lip 528 in the region immediately below the notch 530. Then, a darker part 532 can be seen. This provides an additional visual cue that guides the user to grip the lips 526 and 528 in the region of the bag 500 adjacent to the notch 530. As discussed above, interlock members 514, 516, 518 and 520 can be most easily opened when gripping bag 500 near notch 530.

  FIG. 13 shows a bag 600 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Bag 600 is configured similarly to bag 200 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, except that lips 626 and 628 of bag 600 are colored. The second lip 628, which includes a portion extending above the first lip 626, is darker or darker than the first lip 626. As with the other colored lip examples described above, the user can easily distinguish between the two lips 626 and 628.

  Also, the coloring of the lips 426, 428, 526, 528, 626 and 628 of the bags 400, 500 and 600 may allow the bags 400, 500 and 600 to be easily distinguished from other storage bags. That is, the coloring of the lips 426, 428, 526, 528, 626 and 628 provides a visual indication to the user of a particular bag, and such characteristics provide an explicit or implicit indication of the bag contents. Can be provided. For example, a blue colored lip can be used to indicate a freezing bag, a magenta colored lip can be used to indicate a refrigerated bag, and a green colored lip can be used as a general purpose Can be used to indicate a storage bag. In addition, colored lips 426, 428, 526, 528, 626 and 628 may allow a particular bag to stand out from other bags, for example, a magenta bag from a green bag. Of course, only the lips 426, 428, 526, 528, 626 and 628 can be colored so that the first and second side surfaces 402, 404, 502, 504, 602 of the bags 400, 500 and 600 And 604 can still be transparent or substantially transparent. Thus, while the lips 426, 428, 526, 528, 626 and 628 give the display colors to the bags 400, 500 and 600, the contents of the bags 400, 500 and 600 are nevertheless easily seen.

  Further, to distinguish bag 600 from other bags, bag 600 may include an area 601 that allows easy writing on bag 600, ie, area 601 includes a label for bag 600. Form. Often, plastic bags have labels printed on the surface. Typically, such labels are printed on the bag by applying ink, for example by a flexographic printer. In some embodiments of the present invention, the area 601 of the bag 600 can be such an ink label.

  However, in other embodiments, area 601 is formed as an etched portion of the bag surface rather than using ink. Various techniques can be used to form the etched areas. As one example, the zone 601 can be formed by sandblasting. As another example, the area 601 can be formed by an ultrasonic scuffing process in which a roughened or embossed surface of a vibrating horn or anvil is brought into contact with the surface of the bag 600. It has been found that performing such an etching technique on the surface of a bag composed of a plastic material, such as the plastic described above, provides an etched area that can be easily written with a standard ink pen. Although the etching technique for forming the area 601 is advantageous over the ink printing technique for forming the area 601, it can be less expensive to etch than the ink used to form the area 601. Because. Further, forming the area 601 by etching provides a more environmentally friendly bag 600 by eliminating the use of printing ink. Note that regardless of the technique used to form the area 601, the area 601 can be formed on any surface of the bag 600, and the area 601 can be formed in any shape.

  14-16 illustrate a bag 700 according to another embodiment of the present invention. So long as the bag 700 includes a first side surface 702 and a second side surface 704 connected by edges 706, 708 and 710, the bag 700 is generally configured similarly to the bag described above. . The bag 700 also includes a first closure profile 707 and a second closure profile 709, which include interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720. The first closure profile 707 and the second closure profile 709 also include a first lip 726 and a second lip 728 that define edges 712 and 713. The first lip 726 and the second lip 728 are offset in the same manner as the lips 426 and 428 of the bag 400 described above.

  In the bag 700, a first closure profile 707 and a second closure profile 709 are disposed adjacent to the edges 706 and 708 and adjacent to the interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720. 736, 738 and 740. Texture areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 provide a significantly different texture compared to other surfaces of bag 700, thereby adjacent areas of texture profile 734, 736, 738 and 740 of closure profile 707 and 709. From the above, it is possible to visually distinguish the texture areas 734, 736, 738 and 740. However, the texture areas 734 and 736 extend only a fraction of the length of the closure profiles 707 and 709 and in particular, extend to the area adjacent to the ends of the interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720. That is, the first closure profile 707 and the second closure profile 709 include texture areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 adjacent to portions of the interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720, but the closure profiles 707 and 709 The non-textured area is formed adjacent to most of the length of the interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720. Note that the term “non-textured” as used herein refers to a relatively smooth surface as is generally known in the art.

  15 and 16 show details of the texture area 734 of the bag 700. FIG. The texture area 734 includes a section 740 disposed above the interlock member 714, a section 742 disposed between the interlock members 714 and 716, and a section 744 disposed below the interlock member 716. Including. Also, the other textured areas 736, 738 and 740 of the bag 700 include three sections that are similarly arranged with respect to the interlock members 714 and 716 or the interlock members 718 and 720.

  When the user initiates a sealing operation at the end of the interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720, a zipper-type closure structure, such as the closure structure formed by the interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720, It has been found that it is easier to seal and often more fully sealed. Texture areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 allow the user to grip closure profiles 707 and 709 at locations adjacent to the ends of interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720 when initiating the process of sealing the bag. Provide visual cues to do. Thus, the user is more likely to properly and completely seal the bag 700 having the guidance provided by the textured areas 734, 736, 738 and 740.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the textured areas 734 and 736 extend over a portion of the length of the interlock members 716, 718, 720 and 722, which interlock or unlock each other. be able to. However, to facilitate interlocking, the interlock members 716, 718, 720 and 722 themselves are substantially free of textured areas 734 and 736. That is, the generation of the textured areas 734 and 736 does not substantially affect the shape of the interlock members 716, 718, 720 and 722, thereby still making the interlock members 716, 718, 720 and 722 effective. And thus the opening of the bag 700 can be sealed.

  Texture areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 can be formed by a variety of techniques and processes. As one example, textured areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 can be formed by embossing closure profiles 707 and 709 using a die press. As another example, textured areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 can be formed by ultrasonic embossing. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, die press or ultrasonic embossing techniques are not embossed on the interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720, ie, the interlock members 714, 716, 718, and Allows the formation of textured areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 of specific sections 740, 742 and 744 without crushing or deforming 720. Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize that there are a variety of other techniques that can form textured areas 734, 736, 738 and 740. For example, as an alternative to embossing, textured areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 can be formed by micro-molding operations on the closure profiles 707 and 709.

  The texture areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 of the bag 700 are formed in the upper, middle and lower sections of the interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720, although in other embodiments, of these sections Note that texture regions 734, 736, 738, and 740 can be formed in only one or two of them. For example, textured areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 can be formed only in the area between interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720, not above and below interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720. . In practice, textured areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 may be formed in only one section adjacent to interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720. In yet another embodiment, the textured areas 734, 736, 738 and 740 are formed only on one side of the bag 700 or only on one end of the interlock members 714, 716, 718 and 720. be able to. For example, in one embodiment, only the texture area 734 may be formed and the other texture areas 736, 738 and 740 may be omitted.

  A bag 800 according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. The bag 800 includes a first side surface 802 and a second side surface 804 connected at edges 806, 808 and 810. The bag 800 also includes a first closure profile 807 and a second closure profile 809 extending adjacent to an opening 803 into the interior of the bag 800. Closure profiles 807 and 809 include interlocking members 814, 816, 818 and 820. Interlock members 814, 816, 818 and 820 are configured to seal the opening of bag 800, similar to the interlock members of the embodiments described above. The closure profiles 807 and 809 also include a first lip 826 and a second lip 828 that define the edges 812 and 813 of the bag 800.

  The first closure profile 807 and the second closure profile 809 also include a plurality of dimples 852 and 854. As shown in FIG. 18, the dimples 852 of the first closure profile 807 include an outer concave surface 856 of the first closure profile 807 and a convex surface on the first closure profile 807 side facing the interior of the bag 800. 858. On the other hand, the dimples 854 of the second closure profile 809 are formed as a convex surface 860 on the outer surface of the second closure profile 809 and a concave surface 862 on the second closure profile 809 side facing the inside of the bag 800. The

  The dimples 852 of the first closure profile 807 are arranged and configured to engage the opposed dimples 854 of the second closure profile 809. More specifically, when the interlock members 814, 816, 818, and 820 are combined to seal the opening 803 of the bag 800, the convex surface 858 of the dimple 852 is received into the concave surface 862 of the dimple 854. Can do. Thus, the dimples 852 and 854 provide alignment characteristics for the closure profiles 807 and 809. Further, the alignment and engagement of the dimples 852 and 854 is a visual indication to the user that the interlock members 814, 816, 818 and 820 are engaged when the user seals the bag 800. Provide both display and tactile sensation to the user. That is, the user visually identifies the dimples 852 and 854 and moves his finger along the interlock members 814, 816, 818 and 820 to seal the bag 800, while the concave surface 862 of the dimple 854 is used. Is engaged with the convex surface 858 of the dimple 852.

  In addition to the configuration of the concave surface 856 and convex surface 858 of the dimple 852 and the convex surface 860 and concave surface 862 of the dimple 854 shown in FIG. 17, the closing profiles 807 and 809 are reversed from those shown in FIG. Note that dimples having the configuration described above may be included. That is, the dimple 852 of the first closure profile 807 can be formed of a convex surface on the outside of the first closure profile 807 and a concave surface on the side of the first closure profile 807 facing the inside of the bag 800. These “inverted” dimples of the second closure profile 809 having a concave surface on the outside of the second closure profile 809 and a convex surface on the surface of the second closure profile 809 facing the interior of the bag 800. Corresponds to dimples. In practice, as long as the dimple types shown in FIG. 18 are aligned with each other and the inverted dimples are aligned with each other, the embodiment of the bag 800 has both the dimple configuration shown in FIG. 18 as well as the inverted dimple configuration. May be included.

  In still other embodiments, the dimples 852 and 854 can be flexible so that the concave and convex surfaces of the dimples 852 and 854 can change shape when pressed by the user. For example, the convex surface 860 can be flattened toward the closure profile 809 when the user presses the convex surface 860 of the dimple 854. Further, the dimple 854 can be configured such that the convex surface 860 is concave with respect to the outer surface of the closure profile 809, and the concave surface 862 is against the surface of the closure profile 809 facing the interior of the bag 800. Convex, that is, reverse to the configuration shown in FIG. Also, the dimple 85 can be flexible, so in some embodiments, the deformation of the dimple 852 operates in conjunction with the deformation of the dimple 854. For example, when the concave surface 862 of the dimple 854 is inverted to the convex surface, the corresponding convex surface 858 of the dimple 852 is inverted to the concave surface.

  Since the dimples 852 and 854 do not include interlocking characteristics that significantly assist in sealing the opening 803 of the bag 800, the dimples 852 and 854 are of a type that is significantly different from the interlock members 814, 816, 818, and 820. Note that there are. Instead, the dimple 852 and the dimple 854 simply fit together. The dimples 852 and 854 slide together more easily than the interlock members 814, 816, 818, and 820 so that the dimples 852 and 854 can interlock the interlock members 814, 816, 818, and 820. Provides an effective guide for aligning the closure profiles 807 and 809 in a manner such as

  The dimples 852 and 854 can be particularly effective when combined with characteristics that provide audible feedback indicating that the interlock members 852 and 854 are engaged. As discussed above, the interlock members can be configured to provide an audible sound and / or tactile sensation when engaged with each other. In addition to or in place of interlocking members 814, 816, 818, and 820 having sound generating properties, dimples 852 and 854 may provide sound when aligned, for example, dimples 852 and 854. Can be configured to provide a “pop” sound when combined. That is, the dimples 852 and 854 can be nested to amplify other sounds that indicate that the interlock members 814, 816, 818 and 820 are engaged. Regardless of the sound source, when providing sound in combination with the feel provided by dimples 852 and 854 when aligned, interlock members 814, 816, 818, and 820 interlock together and bag 800 is sealed. A clear indication is provided to the user. The instruction to the user may be more effective when the sound corresponds to the alignment of the dimples 852 and 854. That is, the user is provided with excellent tactile and audio feedback when the bag 800 is configured to generate sound at approximately the same time as the dimples 852 and 854 are nested together.

  As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, various techniques can be used to form the dimples 852 and 854 in the closure profiles 807 and 809. As one example, dimples 852 and 854 can be formed using mechanical operations such as pressing with a die. Also, in such a pressing operation, heat can be applied to the closure profiles 807 and 809 to promote deformation of the closure profiles 807 and 809 forming the dimples 852 and 854. Alternatively, the dimples 852 and 854 can be formed using an ultrasonic forming operation. As yet another variation, the dimples 852 and 854 can be formed by a micro-molding process or as part of a vacuum extrusion operation in the process of forming the closure profiles 807 and 809. For all of these techniques, the dimples 852 and 854 are formed in a manner that prevents the closure profiles 807 and 809 from breaking or weakening.

  In the bag 800 shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, dimples 852 and 854 having substantially spherical sections having a substantially circular cross section are formed. In certain embodiments, the dimples 852 and 854 have a diameter of about 0.125 inches (0.3175 cm). Over the entire length of the closure profiles 807 and 809, substantially spherical dimples 852 and 854 are evenly provided. In some embodiments, the dimples 852 on the first closure profile 807 are spaced apart from each other by about 0.0625 inches (0.1588 cm) to about 0.75 inches (1.91 cm), or more specifically The dimples 852 are spaced apart from each other by about 0.125 inches (0.3175 cm) to about 0.5 inches (1.27 cm), and even more particularly, the dimples 852 are about 0.25 inches ( 0.635 cm) to about 0.375 inches (0.9525 cm) apart. The dimples 854 on the second closure profile 809 have a similar spacing. The depth of the dimples 852 and 854 is about 5 mils to about 40 mils (0.127 to 1.02 mm), or more specifically about 10 mils to about 30 mils (0.254 to 0.762 mm), Or even more specifically, from about 15 mils to about 25 mils (0.381 to 0.635 mm). In certain embodiments, the depth of the dimples 852 and 853 is about 20 mils (0.51 mm). Of course, those skilled in the art will recognize that these dimples can be modified if desired.

  The dimples 852 and 854 are substantially spherical sections having a substantially circular cross section, and the dimples 852 and 854 of FIG. 17 are evenly spaced along the closure profiles 807 and 809, while the dimples 852 And 854, there are many alternative shapes and configurations. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 19 and 20 illustrates two such shapes and configurations. In this embodiment, dimples 852, 852 ′, 854 and 854 ′ are provided at irregular points along the closure profiles 807 and 809. The dimples 852 and 854 are formed as described above, but the dimples 852 ′ and 854 ′ have a rectangular cross section, the dimple 852 ′ forms a ridge 859, and the ridge 859 has a groove formed by the dimple 854 ′. 861. In addition to the shapes and configurations shown in FIGS. 17-20, those skilled in the art will appreciate that dimples having cross-sectional shapes such as oval, triangular, X, S, star, heart, arrow, and Christmas tree shapes. It will be appreciated that a wide variety of alternative shaped dimples 852, 852 ′, 854 and 854 ′ can be formed.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 17-20, dimples 852, 852 ′, 854 and 854 ′ are provided between interlock members 814 and 818 and 816 and 820.
However, in other embodiments, the dimples 852, 852 ′, 854 and 854 ′ can be provided at various positions, such as below the interlock members 816 and 820 or above the interlock members 814 and 818. In addition, dimples 852, 852 ′, 854 and 854 ′ provide for two different areas of closure profiles 807 and 809, such as both above interlock members 814 and 818 and below interlock members 816 and 820. be able to. In line with these contexts, as discussed above, the embodiment of the bag 800 may include only one pair of interlock members on the closure profiles 807 and 809. In such an embodiment, dimples 852 and 854 can be disposed above and below the interlock member.

  FIGS. 21-23 illustrate another embodiment of a bag 1000 that includes dimples 1057 and 1059. In this embodiment, the dimple 1057 on the first closure profile 1007 is offset from the dimple 1059 on the second closure profile 1009. As shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the dimple 1057 is formed as a convex surface on the outer surface of the first closure profile 1007, and the dimple 1059 is formed as a convex surface on the outer surface of the second closure profile 1009. . However, in other embodiments, one or both of the dimples 1057 and 1059 can be formed as concave surfaces on their respective closure profiles 1007 and 1009. The dimples 1057 and 1059 can be formed using the techniques described above. As a specific example, a dimple 1057 can be formed by embossing a closure profile 1007 between a pair of rollers, and a dimple 1059 can be formed by embossing a closure profile 1009 between another pair of rollers. can do. For such a process, the closure profiles 1007 and 1009 are combined into a final bag structure 1000 after the dimples 1057 and 1059 are separately formed using the pair of rollers.

  Unlike the embodiments described above, the dimples 1057 do not nest with the dimples 1059, and thus the dimples 1057 and 1059 do not provide a substantial guide for aligning the closure profiles 1007 and 1009. . Nevertheless, the dimples 1057 and 1059 advantageously provide visual cues and tactile feedback that indicate to the user where to place their fingers when sealing the interlock members 1014, 1016, 1018 and 1020. Provide both. Therefore, the user can clearly see that the bag 1000 is sealed.

  In the various embodiments described above, the specific characteristics of the storage bag of the present application have been described above, but many of the characteristics of these various embodiments will vary to different embodiments, as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Can be incorporated. For example, the dimple characteristics described with respect to bag 800 may comprise different lip configurations of bags 100, 100 ′, 200 and 300. In addition or alternatively, the textured areas described with respect to bag 700 may be used with bags 100, 100 ′, 200 and 300. Further, the colored lip described in connection with bags 400, 500 and 600 may comprise any embodiment of the storage bag of the present application. Similarly, a label area 601 shown on the bag 600 may be provided on any embodiment of the storage bag of the present application. Further, the grip ridges 122, 123, 124 and 125 and / or texture 127 described above in connection with the bags 100 and 100 ′ may be provided in any embodiment of the bag of the present application. Also, as described above, the grip ridges 122, 123, 124 and 125 and the texture 127 can be provided on the inner surface of the bag lip, on the outer surface of the lip, or on both the inner and outer surfaces of the lip.

  FIGS. 24 and 25 show bags 1100 and 1200 in an embodiment that includes a combination of the characteristics described above. The bag 1100 of FIG. 24 includes lips 1126 and 1128 on the closure profiles 1107 and 1104, the lips 1126 and 1128 having the same shape as the lips 126 and 128 of the bag 100 described above. Accordingly, a notch 1130 is formed in the central region of the lips 1126 and 1128. Lips 1126 and 1128 also include grip ridges 1122 and 1125, and grip ridges (not shown) on opposite faces of lips 1126 and 1128, as described above in connection with FIG. Lips 1126 and 1128 further include a texture 1127 similar to texture 127 on lips 126 and 128 of bag 100 ′ described above. The lip 1126 is formed as a different color from the lip 1128 or as a different shade in the manner described above with respect to the lips 526 and 528. Thus, bag 1100 also includes a darkened portion 1132 that is visible when looking at bag 1100 toward its side surface. When combined with such characteristics, the lips 1126 and 1128 are easy for the user to identify and the user is instructed to grip the area of the top end of the bag 1100, thereby interlocking members 1114, 1116, 1118 and 1120 can be easily opened.

  The bag 1100 also includes the characteristics described above that facilitate sealing of the interlock members 1114, 1116, 1118 and 1120. Specifically, the bag 1100 includes textured areas 1134 and 1136 at the ends of the interlock members 1114, 1116, 1118 and 1120 along with textured areas 1134 and 1136. Texture areas 1134 and 1136 provide visual cues that direct the user to initiate a sealing operation at the ends of interlock members 1114, 1116, 1118 and 1120, as described above with respect to bag 700. . It should be noted that the textures of the texture areas 1134 and 1136 can be visually distinct from the texture 1127 of the lips 1126 and 1128 shown in FIG. The bag 1100 also includes dimples 1052 on the first closure profile 1107 and corresponding dimples 1054 on the second closure profile 1109, where the dimples 1052 and 1054 are as described above with respect to the bag 800, as described above. Similar to the dimples 852 and 854. The dimples 1052 and 1054 provide alignment characteristics, visual display, and tactile sensation as described above. However, the dimples 1052 and 1054 in FIG. 24 are configured similarly to the dimples 852 and 854 of the bag 800, but in other embodiments, the dimples 1052 and 1054 are configured of the dimples 852 ′ and 854 ′ of the bag 800 ′. Note that it can also be formed in any of the other configurations described above, such as dimples 1057 and 1059 of bag 1000.

  In addition, as shown in FIG. 25, the bag 1200 includes characteristics that facilitate sealing and opening of the bag 1200. In this embodiment, the lips 1226 and 1228 have the same shape as the lips 226 and 228 described above with respect to the bag 200. Lips 1226 and 1128 include grip ridges 1222 and 1225 and corresponding grip ridges (not shown) on opposite faces of lips 1226 and 1128. A texture 1227 is formed on the lips 1226 and 1228, and the lips 1226 and 1228 are colored in a manner similar to the lips 426 and 428 of the bag 400 described above. Bag 1200 further includes texture areas 1234 and 1236 at the ends of interlock members 1214, 1216, 1218 and 1220 and dimples 1252 and 1254 disposed adjacent to interlock members 1214, 1216, 1218 and 1220. . Accordingly, the bag 1200 includes visual and haptic properties that facilitate sealing and opening of the interlock members 1214, 1216, 1218 and 1220, as described above.

  Also, the bags 1100 and 1200 can similarly include any of the other characteristics of the embodiments described above. For example, interlock members 1114, 1116, 1118, 1120, 1214, 1216, 1218 and 1220, and dimples 1052, 1054, 1252 and 1254 can be configured to generate audible feedback in the manner described above.

  All of the bags shown in FIGS. 1-25 have a substantially square configuration. However, any of the above-described bags can be provided in a non-square shape. The bag 1300 shown in FIG. 26 illustrates such a non-square shape. The bag 1300 includes edges 1306, 1308 and 1310. Between edges 1306 and 1310 and between edges 1308 and 1310 are curved edges 1303 and 1310. The radius of curvature of such a curved edge can be, for example, 0.75 inches or 1.5 inches. Those skilled in the art will recognize a number of other shapes in which the bags described herein can be formed.

  It is also contemplated that any of the bags described herein can be formed as a vacuum storage bag. In such embodiments, at least one vacuum check valve is provided on the surface of the bag, which allows fluid communication with the interior of the bag. A vacuum device, such as a manual or electric pump, or even a household vacuum cleaner can be placed over the valve to draw gas or other fluid from the interior of the bag. The vacuum bag configuration can also include a relief on or along the inner surface of the bag to provide an air flow channel when evacuated via a vacuum check valve. Examples of vacuum bags are sold under the trade name SPACE BAG® and examples of such vacuum bags are US Pat. No. 6,983,845, US Pat. No. 8,096,329, U.S. Patent No. 8,197,138, U.S. Patent No. 8,179,139, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0099806, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

  Although the present invention has been described with respect to particular specific exemplary embodiments, many additional modifications and variations will become apparent to those skilled in the art in light of this disclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that the invention may be practiced other than as specifically described. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the scope of the present invention is not limited to the above description, but is Should be determined by any claim that can be supported by and its equivalents.

  The invention described herein can be used in the commercial production of storage bags. Such storage bags have a wide variety of uses, such as use for storing food, drugs or other substances.

Claims (10)

A storage bag,
A first side surface;
A second side surface connected to the first side surface so as to form the interior with an opening to the interior of the bag;
A first closure profile connected to the first side surface and disposed adjacent to the opening of the bag, wherein the first closure profile is a length of the first closure profile. Along an interlock member extending between a first side of the first closure profile and a second side of the first closure profile, wherein the first closure profile is on the interlock member. A first closure profile further comprising a plurality of adjacently provided dimples, wherein the plurality of dimples provided on the first closure profile comprises a first shape;
A second closure profile connected to the second side surface and disposed adjacent to the opening of the bag, wherein the second closure profile is at least the length of the first closure profile. And an interlock member extending between a first side of the first closure profile and a second side of the first closure profile, the interlock member of the second closure profile comprising: And configured to interlock with the interlock member of the first closure profile to form a seal for the opening of the bag, wherein the second closure profile is configured to interact with the second closure profile. The plurality of dimples provided on the second closure profile further comprising a plurality of dimples provided adjacent to the interlock member of the profile There comprising a second shape, the second closure profile,
With
The first shape of the plurality of dimples on the first closure profile is different from the second shape of the plurality of dimples on the second closure profile;
Wherein a first of said plurality of dimples on the closure profile, and the plurality of dimples on the second closure profile, without interlock with each other,
At least one dimple of the plurality of dimples of the first closure profile and the plurality of dimples of the second closure profile is the first side surface and the second side surface. Convex or concave with respect to at least one of the corresponding,
The at least one dimple has flexibility, and when the user seals the storage bag while pressing the at least one dimple, the at least one dimple has a flat shape or an inverted shape. Deform,
storage bags.   (I) the first closure profile includes another interlock member extending substantially parallel to the interlock member of the first closure profile; (ii) the second closure profile , Another interlock member extending substantially parallel to the interlock member of the second closure profile, wherein the other interlock member of the second closure profile is the opening of the bag. The storage bag of claim 1, wherein the storage bag is configured to interlock with the other interlocking member of the first closure profile to form a seal for a portion.   The dimples on the first closure profile are (i) an area above the interlock member of the first closure profile; (ii) the interlock member of the first closure profile and the first Of the area between the other interlocking member of the closing profile and (iii) the area below the interlocking member of the first closing profile and the other interlocking member of the first closing profile The storage bag according to claim 2, which is arranged in one of the two.   The dimples on the second closure profile are (i) an area above the interlock member of the second closure profile; (ii) the interlock member of the second closure profile and the second Of the area between the other interlocking member of the closing profile and (iii) the area below the interlocking member of the second closing profile and the other interlocking member of the second closing profile The storage bag according to claim 2, wherein the storage bag is arranged in one of the two.   The interlock member of the first closure profile and the interlock member of the second closure profile comprise a plurality of indentations that generate sound when the interlock members are engaged with each other. 5. The storage bag according to any one of 4 above.   The storage bag according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the plurality of dimples of the first closure profile are provided evenly spaced from one another and over the entire length of the first closure profile.   The storage bag according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the plurality of dimples of the second closure profile are provided evenly spaced from one another and over the entire length of the second closure profile.   8. The plurality of dimples of the first closure profile are any one of claims 1 to 7 spaced from about 0.25 inch (0.635 cm) to about 0.375 inch (0.9525 cm) from each other. Storage bag.   9. The plurality of dimples of the second closure profile are any one of claims 1 to 8 spaced from about 0.25 inch (0.635 cm) to about 0.375 inch (0.9525 cm) from each other. Storage bag.   10. A storage bag according to any preceding claim, wherein the dimple depth on the first closure profile and the second closure profile is a maximum of about 20 mils (0.51 mm).

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