KR20170128213A - Package - Google Patents

Abstract

A package comprising a container (10, 110) and a wrapper (20, 120) of flexible multi-layer laminate sheet material surrounding the container. The wrapper comprises a first layer and a second layer outside the first layer. The first cut line of the first layer defines a first region of the first layer above the lid (12, 112) of the vessel (10, 110). The second cut line of the second layer is offset from the first cut line. The second cut line defines a second region of the second layer. The second region is over the lid and the second layer includes a peripheral portion (21, 121) extending beyond the lid (12, 112). The peripheral portion 21, 121 of the second layer is detachable from the first layer and can be used to lift the lid 12, 112 to the open position and can be resealed against the first layer.

Description

Package {PACKAGE}

The packaged product is preferably kept as fresh as possible. One type of packaged product is a tobacco industry product, such as a cigarette.

A popular type of tobacco package includes a container with a box and a hinged cover. A plastic film wrapper is initially provided around the container. After the initial opening of the package, the plastic film is discarded. The disadvantage of this packaging is that when the package is first opened, it provides little protection against moisture.

Other known types of cigarette packages include a laminate wrapper around a container that does not have a cover. Access to cigarettes is obtained by a resealable label. The disadvantage of such a package is that a separate label is required in addition to the laminate wrapper. This requires additional processing steps.

There is a requirement for alternative packaging.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of the simplified forms of the concepts which are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

According to one aspect of the present invention,

A container-lid including a body and a lid is attached to the body by a hinge, the lid being movable between a closed position and an open position wherein the lid is in contact with the body along a contact line;

CLAIMS What is claimed is: 1. A package comprising a flexible multi-layer laminate sheet material wrapper surrounding the container,

A first layer;

A second layer outside the first layer;

The first cut line of the first layer not present in the second layer, the first cut line defining a first region of the first layer over the cover;

At least a portion of the second cut line-second cut line of the second layer not in the first layer is offset from the first cut line, the second cut line defines a second region of the second layer, And a second layer over the cover and extending beyond the cover;

A resealable adhesive between the perimeter portion of the second layer and the first layer;

The perimeter portion of the second layer is separable from the first layer and can be used to lift the lid to the open position and the perimeter portion can be resealed against the first layer.

The first cut line can be aligned with the contact line between the cover and the body.

The container may include a front, a back and two sides, the hinge is located on the back, and the contact line extends along the front and two sides of the container.

The first cut line may be offset from the second cut line by a smaller amount on the sides of the container than the front face of the container.

The first cut line may be positioned with the second cut line on the sides of the container.

The container may include a front, a back, two sides, and a top surface, and the lid is a flap that includes at least a portion of the front surface of the container and a frontal cut.

The flap may be attached to the first region of the wrapper and is movable with the flap portion when the peripheral portion of the second layer is lifted.

The hinge can be positioned on the edge of the container between the top and back surfaces.

The second cut line may be offset from the top surface of the container and the first cut line on the front surface to provide a perimeter area around the perimeter of the flap.

The contact line may be offset inward from the side edge of the top surface and the side edge of the front surface.

The wrapper may be attached to the lid of the container.

The wrapping paper may be attached to the body of the container.

The first cut line may be a fragile line requiring an opening force to separate the first layer along the fragile line.

The second cut line may be a fragile line requiring an opening force to separate the second layer along the fragile line.

The vulnerable line may be one of a perforation line, a score line, a scribe line, and a crenellated line.

Another aspect of the present invention provides a wrapper of a flexible multi-layer laminate sheet material for forming a package around a container of the type comprising a body and a lid, wherein the lid is attached to the body by a hinge, Wherein the wrapper comprises a flexible multi-layer laminate sheet material surrounding the container, the wrapper being movable between a closed position and an open position,

A first layer;

A second layer outside the first layer;

The first cut line of the first layer not present in the second layer, the first cut line defining a first region of the first layer so that the first cut line is above the cover;

At least a portion of the second cut line-second cut line of the second layer not in the first layer is offset from the first cut line, the second cut line defines a second region of the second layer, The second layer comprising a peripheral portion extending over the cover;

A resealable adhesive between the perimeter portion of the second layer and the first layer;

The perimeter portion of the second layer is separable from the first layer and can be used to lift the lid to the open position and the perimeter portion can be resealed against the first layer.

According to another aspect of the present invention,

The lid being attached to the body by a hinge, the lid being movable between a closed position and an open position wherein the lid is placed against the body along a contact line;

There is provided a package comprising fitting a wrapper of a flexible multi-layer laminate sheet material surrounding the container,

A first layer;

A second layer outside the first layer;

The first cut line of the first layer not present in the second layer, the first cut line defining a first region of the first layer over the cover;

At least a portion of the second cut line-second cut line of the second layer not in the first layer is offset from the first cut line, the second cut line defines a second region of the second layer, And a second layer over the cover and extending beyond the cover;

A resealable adhesive between the perimeter portion of the second layer and the first layer;

The perimeter portion of the second layer is separable from the first layer and can be used to lift the lid to the open position and the perimeter portion can be resealed against the first layer.

As used herein, the term "resealable adhesive" means an adhesive that allows two surfaces to adhere to each other and also allows the surfaces to be non-destructively separated from each other and reattached to each other. An example of a resealable adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), such as a peelable PSA, in which adhesive bonding is achieved by applying pressure to the adhesive.

As used herein, the term "resealed" means that two surfaces can be refastenable to each other. The degree of sealing can be achieved between the two surfaces when they are re-fastened to each other. However, the term "resealed" does not require that the two surfaces form a complete airtight seal during subsequent fastening of the surface.

The preferred features may be suitably combined and combined with any aspect of the invention as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the following drawings.
Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a first example of a container (with the cover open) that can form the interior of the package.
FIG. 3 shows a package including a laminate wrapper around the container of FIGS. 1 and 2, wherein the package is shown in an unopened state.
Figure 4 shows the package of Figure 3 in an open state.
Figure 5A shows the package of Figure 4 in a resealed state.
Figure 5b shows a cross-sectional view of Figure 5a.
Figures 6 and 7 illustrate a second example of a (open) container that is capable of forming the interior of the package.
Figure 8 shows a package comprising a laminate wrapper around the containers of Figures 7 and 8, and the package is shown in an unopened state.
Figure 9 shows the package of Figure 8 in an open state.
Fig. 10 shows the package of Fig. 9 in a resealed state.
11A shows an example of a two-layer laminate wrapper.
Figs. 11B and 11C show cut lines in the layers of the laminate wrapping paper of Fig. 11A.
12A shows an example of a three-layer laminate wrapper.
Figures 12b and 12c illustrate fragile lines in the layers of the laminate wrapping paper of Figure 12a.
Figure 13 shows a web of laminate material.
14 shows a method of forming a package.
The common reference numerals are used to denote similar features throughout the figures.

Embodiments of the present invention are described below by way of example only. These embodiments represent best practices for practicing the present invention as is currently known to the Applicant, but such schemes are not the only ways in which the present invention may be achieved. The description describes exemplary functions and a sequence of steps for configuring and operating the example. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be achieved by different examples.

Figs. 1 to 5B show a first example of a package. 1 shows a container 10 capable of forming the interior of a package. The container 10 is shaped as a rectangular parallelepiped having a front face 1, a rear face 2, side faces 3, a base 4 and a top face 5. The container 10 includes a first container portion (body) 11 and a second container portion (lid) 12. The second container portion 12 is hingedly connected to the first container portion 11 about the hinge line 13 located at the lower portion of the rear surface 2. [ In use, articles (e.g., cigarettes) are held in the first container portion 11. The second container portion (12) forms a hinged lid for the first container portion (11). In this example, the lid 12 is in the form of a hood-shaped portion of the container. Figure 1 shows a hinged lid 12 in an open position. Figure 2 shows a hinged lid in the closed position. The frame 8 is fixed to the first container portion 11. The frame (8) defines an access opening (9). The frame 8 retains the contents of the container and also allows access to the contents. The frame 8 functions to provide frictional resistance when the lid 12 is closed and functions to prevent accidental opening of the lid. The frame 8 can be fixed to the inner area of the front face 1 (for example, by an adhesive). The lid 12 contacts the first container portion along the contact lines 14A, 14B. In the closed position, the lid 12 abuts the body 11 along the contact lines 14A, 14B. A portion of the contact line 14A extends along the front face 1. Other portions of the contact line 14B extend diagonally along the sides 3 from the 14A to the hinge line 13.

The package may be for a tobacco industry product such as a cigarette. More generally, the package may be provided for any type of packaged goods.

Figs. 3-5B illustrate a package 30 including a laminate wrapping paper 20 fitted around the container 10 shown in Figs. 1 and 2. Fig. 3 shows the package 30 in an initial unopened state. Fig. 4 shows a package 30 in an open state. 5A and 5B show a package 30 in a resealed state.

The laminate wrapper 20 comprises two or more layers of flexible sheet material laminated together. The laminate wrapping paper 20 is secured around the container 10, and is advantageously sealed along all free edges. For example, an edge located along a longitudinal side (e.g., side 3 or back 2) is sealed. The edges (26) of the wrapper positioned on the top and bottom surfaces (4, 5) of the package are sealed. Advantageously, the wrapper 20 is sealed in an airtight manner (i.e., a full seal) around the container 10. The wrapper 20 is intended to be held around the container after the package is first opened. The wrapper 20 has a flap 21 that can be opened by the user.

The wrapper 20 has cut lines defined in the layers of the laminate. In use, the wrapper can be separated along the cut lines to allow a portion of the outer layer of the wrapper to function as the flap 21. The flap 21 may be lifted to open the lid 12 of the package. The flap 21 can be resealed against the inner layer of the wrapper to close the package. In the simplest case of a two-ply laminate wrapper 20, the flap 21 comprises a portion of the outer layer of the laminate wrapper 20. [ The remaining inner layer of the laminate wrapper 20 is positioned and held along the front face 1 of the container 10. The resealable adhesive 23 may be provided on all or a portion of the region 23. [ The resealable adhesive in the region 23 allows the outer layer of the laminate wrapper 20 to be separated from the inner layer to form the flap 21. The adhesive in the area 23 allows the flap 21 to reseal against the inner layer of the laminate when the package is closed.

The laminate wrapper 20 has two cut lines. A first cut line that is not present in the second (outer) layer of the laminate wrapper 20 is present in the first (inner) layer of the laminate wrapper 20. Advantageously, the first cut line is defined along or adjacent to the contact lines 14A, 14B between the body 11 of the container and the lid 12. This allows the inner layer of the laminate wrapping paper 20 to be separated along the contact lines 14A, 14B. A portion of the inner layer of the laminate wrapper 20 is held around the body 11 of the container. A portion of the inner layer of the laminate wrapper 20 is over the lid 12 of the container and moves with the lid 12 when the lid is open. A second cut line that is not present in the first layer of the laminate wrapper 20 is present in the second layer of the laminate wrapper 20. This allows the outer layer of the laminate wrapper 20 to be separated along the second cut line when the lid is opened. A portion of the outer layer of the laminate wrapper 20 is held around the body 11 of the container. A portion of the outer layer of the laminate wrapper 20 is over the lid 12 of the container and moves with the lid 12 when the lid is open. The second cut line is offset from a portion 14A of the contact line between the body 11 of the container and the lid 12. A portion of the second (outer) layer over the lid 12 includes a circumferential portion 21 that extends beyond the lid 12. This allows the circumferential portion 21 of the second (outer) layer of the wrapper 20 to function as the flap 21. The flap 21 may be resealed with respect to the first layer of the region 23 as shown in Fig. 5A. In the hatched regions shown in Figure 4, there is only one of the layers of the laminate wrapper. There are both layers of the laminate wrapping paper in a location where the wrapper surrounds the lid 12 and at all other places where the wrapper surrounds the body away from the area 23. [ The second cut line may be positioned with the first cut line on the sides of the container. Alternatively, the second cut line may be offset from the first cut line on the sides of the container.

The rigid fitting of the wrapper 20 around the container can hold the wrapper around the lid 12 when the flap 21 is lifted. Advantageously, the wrapper 20 is secured to the lid 12 in all or part of the area 28 shown in Figs. 3 and 5. This improves the grip between the portions of wrapping paper 20 around the lid 12 and allows the wrapping paper 20 to remain fixed around the lid 12 when the flap 21 is lifted. This prevents the wrapper 20 from sliding off the lid 12 when the flap 21 is lifted. Health and safety regulations within the area may also require that any wrapping paper be secured to the container.

Advantageously, flap 21 is an area suitable for providing reliable reclosing. Referring to Fig. 5A, the flap 21 has a height 32. Fig. The front face of the package has a height (31). In a non-limiting example, the flap may have a maximum height of about 25% of the height of the front surface. In other examples, the flap may have a maximum height that is greater than or less than 25% of the height of the front surface.

Figure 5b shows a cross section along line A-A 'of Figure 5a. This shows the details of the wrapper 20 and the container 10 in the region where the flap 21 is formed. The wrapper 20 includes a first (inner) layer 201 and a second (outer) layer 202. The first cut line 206 passes through the first layer 201 but does not pass through the second layer 202. The second cut line 208 passes through the second layer 202 but does not pass through the first layer 201. The cut lines 206 and 208 are offset to form the flap 21. A resealable adhesive 204 is present between the first layer 201 and the second layer 202 in the region where the flap 21 is formed. In this example, the first cut line 206 is aligned with the contact line 14A between the body 11 of the container and the lid 12. The flap 21 of the second layer 202 is separated from the first layer 201 due to the resealable adhesive 204 and the cut line 208 between the layers 201 and 202. [ This allows the user to lift the flap 21. Due to the cut line 206, the layers 201, 202 of the wrapper of the area 36 beyond the cut line 206 are adhered to and held together. Also, due to the adhesive 35 and / or due to the rigid fitting of the wrapper around the lid 12, lifting the flap 21 opens the lid 12. The flaps 21 of the second layer 202 may be resealed with respect to the first layer 201. [

Figure 5b illustrates optional features of the adhesive-free region 209 adjacent the second cut line 208 that allows the flap 21 to be more easily gripped by the user. Figure 5b shows the adhesive 35 between the first (inner) layer 201 and the lid 12. Adhesive 35 may also be present between the first (internal) layer 201 of the container and the body 11 (as shown), or may be omitted. Figure 5b is not drawn to scale to improve clarity. For example, the layers may have relative thicknesses different from those shown in FIG. 5B.

6 to 10 show a second example of the package. Figure 6 shows a container 110 capable of forming the interior of the package. The container 110 is shaped as a rectangular parallelepiped having a front face 101, a rear face 102, side faces 103, a base 104 and a top face 105. The container 110 includes a first container portion (body) 111 and a second container portion (lid) 112. The lid 112 is a different configuration in this example and is in the form of a flap. The second container portion 112 is hingedly connected to the first container portion 111 about the hinge line 113 located along the edge of the container 110 between the top surface 105 and the rear surface 102. [ do. In use, articles (e.g., cigarettes) are held in the first container portion 111. The second container portion 112 forms a hinged lid for the first container portion 111. The lid 112 is a flap that includes at least a portion of the top surface 105 and a cut in the front surface 101 of the container. Figure 6 shows the hinged lid 112 in the open position. Figure 7 shows the hinged lid 112 in the closed position. The access opening 109 is defined in the front face 101 of the container. The perimeter of the access opening 109 is set inward from the outer edge of the container. The front face 101 of the container has a shoulder portion 128 between the side edge of the front face 101 and the perimeter of the access opening 109. Similarly, the top 105 of the container has a shoulder portion 129 between the side edge of the top 105 and the perimeter of the access opening 109. These shoulder portions 128 and 129 are present on both sides of the container. In use, the shoulder portions 128, 129 provide a support surface when resealing the wrapper 120. The lid 112 contacts the first container portion along the contact lines 114A, 114B, and 114C. In the closed position, the lid 112 abuts the body 111 along the contact lines 114A, 114B, and 114C. The portions 114A, 114B of the contact line extend along the front face 101. [ Another portion of the contact line 114C extends from the front face 101 to the hinge line 113 along the top 105. [

Figs. 8-10 illustrate a package 130 that includes a laminate wrapping paper 120 fitted around the container 10 shown in Figs. 6 and 7. Fig. 8 shows the package 130 in an initial unopened state. FIG. 9 shows a package 130 in an open state. Fig. 10 shows a package 130 in a resealed state.

The laminate wrapper 120 comprises two or more layers of flexible sheet material laminated together. The laminate wrapper 120 is secured around the container 110 and is advantageously sealed along all free edges. The wrapper 120 has a portion 121 that can be opened and resealed by a user.

The wrapper 120 has cut lines defined in the layers of the laminate. In the simplest case of a two-ply laminate wrapper 120, the flap 121 includes a portion of the outer layer of the laminate wrapper 120. [ The remaining inner layer of the laminate wrapper 120 is positioned and held along the front face 101 of the container 110. A resealable adhesive may be provided on all or a portion of the area 123. The adhesive in the area 123 allows the outer layer of the laminate wrapper 120 to be separated from the inner layer to form the flap 121. The adhesive in region 123 allows the outer layer of the laminate to reseal against the inner layer of the laminate when the package is reclosed.

The laminate wrapper 120 has two cut lines. A first cut line that is not present in the second (outer) layer of the laminate wrapper 120 is present in the first (inner) layer of the wrapper 120. Advantageously, the first cut line is defined along or adjacent to the contact lines 114A, 114B, 114C between the body 111 of the container and the lid 112. This allows the inner layers of the laminate wrapper 120 to be separated along the contact lines 114A, 114B, and 114C. A portion of the inner layer of the laminate wrapper 120 is held around the body 111 of the container. A portion of the inner layer of the laminate wrapper 120 is over the lid 112 of the container and moves with the lid 112 when the lid is open. A second cut line that is not present in the first (inner) layer of the laminate wrapper 120 is present in the second (outer) layer of the laminate wrapper 120. A portion of the outer layer of the laminate wrapper 120 is held around the body 111 of the container. A portion of the outer layer of the laminate wrapper 120 is over the lid 112 of the container and moves with the lid 112 when the lid is open. The second cut line is offset from the contact lines 114A, 114B, and 114C. This provides a circumferential portion of the wrapper when the second (outer) layer of wrapper 120 extends beyond the lid 112. The peripheral portion 121 is separable from the first (inner) layer. In the hatched areas shown in Figure 9, there is only one of the layers of the laminate wrapper. The perimeter portion can be resealed with respect to the first layer of regions 123A, 123B, and 123C: region 123A is below the front lip of access opening 109; The region 123B is parallel to the access opening 109 in the front view, and the region 123C is aligned with the access opening 109 in the upper surface. These areas completely surround the perimeter of access opening 109, thus providing more effective resealing of the wrapper. The cross section of the wrapper of Fig. 10 is not shown, but it has the same characteristics as those shown in Fig. 5B.

Advantageously, the wrapper 120 is secured to the lid 112 in the area where the wrapper is above the lid 112. This allows the wrapper 120 to remain connected to the lid 112 when the peripheral portion is lifted. Health and safety regulations within the area may also require that any wrapping paper be secured to the container.

In any of the examples described above, the container may be formed from a card, a polymeric material, or any other suitable material. The material may be biodegradable and / or compostable.

In any of the examples described above, the package may be for a tobacco industry product, such as a cigarette. More generally, the package may be provided for any type of packaged goods.

In any of the examples described above, the first cut line and / or the second cut line may be a cut line formed by a laser-formed cut line, or another type of cutting machine such as a die cutter.

In any of the examples described above, the first cut line may be a cut line that extends completely through the inner layer of the wrapper. Alternatively, the first cut line may be a fragile line, such as a perforation line, a score line, or a ruled line. The opening force is required to completely separate or cut the inner layer along the vulnerable line. This can provide a sign of tampering. In a perforated cut line, the cut line includes perforated portions where the cut line extends completely through the layer and uncut portions that are intact. In a score or scribe line, the cut line extends partially through the layer. In the ruled line, the cut line alternates between the first cut depth and the second cut depth. The first depth may be zero such that the line has some portions that are not cut at all and some that the cut line extends partially through the layer.

The second cut line may be a cut line that extends completely through the outer layer of the wrapper. Alternatively, the second cut line may be a fragile line such as a perforation line, a score line, or a ruled line. If the flap is lifted for the first time, an opening force is required to completely cut the outer layer along the vulnerable line. This provides a trace of the occurrence of any tampering.

An advantage of this package is that it can help keep the product fresh after the package is first opened, as the outer wrapper 20, 120 and the flaps 21, 121 continue to provide protection for the contents. The advantage of providing the wrapping paper 20, 120 around the containers 10, 110 is that the container can be simpler and cheaper since the container no longer forms the exterior of the package. For example, the outer finish of the container may be a simpler and less expensive finish (e.g., matte instead of glossy) and need not be printed.

An example of a two layer laminate comprising a first (inner) layer 201 and a second (outer) layer 202 is shown in FIG. The first layer (201) is bonded to the second layer (202) by an adhesive (204). The first layer 201 may be formed of a polymeric material, such as, for example, aromatic polypropylene (OPP), a foil or a metallized polymer. The second layer 202 may be formed of a material similar to or different from the first layer. The metal layer is particularly advantageous in providing a moisture barrier to maintain freshness. A resealable flap 21 is attached to the laminate package by using a resealable adhesive such as a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) to bond the second layer 202 at least in the region 21 to the first layer 201. [ Sensitive adhesive may be used or may be commonly used between such layers 201 and 202 locally in the region 23 where the flap 21 is above the first layer 202 .

11B and 11C show cut lines formed in layers 201 and 202, respectively. The first layer 201 will form the interior of the wrapper 20 and the second layer 202 will form the exterior of the wrapper 20. Solid lines indicate cut lines formed in the layer. The dashed lines indicate cut lines formed in the other layer. The first cut lines 205 and 206 are formed in the first layer 201. The portions 205 of the cut line will align with the portions 14B of the contact line between the lid 12 of the container and the body 11 in the assembled package. The portion 206 of the fragile line will align with the portion 14A of the contact line between the lid 12 of the container and the body 11 in the assembled package. The first cut line defines a first region 231 over the cover in the assembled package. The second cut lines 207 and 208 are formed in the second layer 202. The portions 207 of the second cut line will be aligned with or slightly offset from portions 14B of the contact line between the lid 12 of the container and the main body 11 and parallel thereto. The second cut lines 207 and 208 define a first region 232 in the assembled package that includes a peripheral portion (flap) 21 over the cover and extending beyond the cover. The portion 208 of the second cut line will be offset from the portions 14A of the contact line between the lid 12 of the container and the body 11 in the assembled package. This offset of the second cut line 208 from the first cut line 206 defines the flap 21 of the second layer 202. The cuts 206 and 208 form a flap 21 of laminate material that is integral with the remainder of the sheet 202 along the top edge of the flap 21. The resealable adhesive in the region 23 between the layers 201, 202 provides a resealable seal to the flap 21. [

The cut lines 205, 207 may be slightly offset from each other to maintain the seal integrity of the package prior to the initial opening of the package. The offset of the cut lines provides a circumferential portion where the second layer 202 is above the first layer 201 and resealable with respect to the first layer 201. The cut lines 205, 207 on the sides of the container are offset by a much smaller amount than the cut lines 206, 208 on the front side of the container. The cut lines 20 and 207 may be vulnerable lines that are not completely cut through their respective layers (or layers). This may additionally help to maintain the seal integrity of the package prior to the initial opening of the package.

In an alternative arrangement, the cut lines 205 and 207 can be aligned, and no circumferential portion is present. The cut lines 205 and 207 are vulnerable lines that are not completely cut through their respective layers, thus maintaining the seal integrity of the package prior to the initial opening of the package. The cut lines 205 and 207 may be formed as friable lines on only the sides of the container or on the sides and front.

It will be appreciated that the same principles apply to obtain the wrapper 120 for the packages of FIGS. 6-10. Offsetting the cut lines provides a circumferential portion 121 on the second layer of wrapping paper that extends beyond the cover.

12A-12C illustrate a three layer laminate wrapper comprising a first (inner) layer 301, a second (middle) layer 302 and a third (outer) layer 303. Similar to FIG. 11A, the first layer 301 is bonded to the second layer 302 by an adhesive 304. The second layer (302) is bonded to the third layer (303) by an adhesive (305). One or more of the layers may be a metal foil or a metallized polymer layer.

Figs. 12B and 12C show cut lines formed in layers 301 to 303. Fig. Two of the three layers have the same cut line. The layer 301 will form the interior of the wrapper 20 and the layer 303 will form the exterior of the wrapper 20. The cut lines 205, 206 are formed at least in the layer 301. The cut lines 207 and 208 are formed at least on the layer 303.

The intermediate layer 302 may have the same cut lines as the layer 301 or the layer 303. In the first example, the layer 301 has the cut lines 205 and 206 shown in FIG. 12B and the pair of layers 302 and 303 has the cut lines 207 and 208 shown in FIG. 12C . A resealable adhesive is provided in the region 23 between the layers 301 and 302 having different cut lines to provide a resealable seal to the flap 21. [ In the second example, the layers 301 and 302 have the same cut lines 205 and 206 shown in FIG. 12B, and the layer 303 has the cut lines 207 and 208 shown in FIG. 12C. A resealable adhesive is provided in the region 23 between the layers 302 and 303 with different cut lines to provide a resealable seal to the flap 21. [ The first example provides a flap 21 having an additional thickness because the flap 21 comprises a pair of layers 302 and 303. [

Adhesive (e.g., pressure sensitive adhesive) applied to area 23 of any of the embodiments can be patterned to leave a region free of any adhesive so that the flap can be easily opened. In Fig. 11B, area 209 may remain without adhesive. This allows the layer 202 to be easily lifted and used to pull open the flaps 21. Similarly, in FIG. 12B, the area 209 may remain without the adhesive. This allows the flaps including the layers 302 and 303 or the layer 203 to be easily lifted and allowed to be used to pull open the flaps 21. In the three-layer example, a permanent adhesive may be used between the layers that are not required to be separated.

As will be appreciated, the shape and design of the cuts can be varied according to the aesthetic and functional requirements of each design. For example, different shapes may be utilized depending on the design, or the curvature and shape of the cuts may be selected to avoid breakage of the materials when the flaps are opened. As the cut designs become more complex and / or as the dimensions of the cut lines increase, the time required to form the openings may increase.

While the above embodiments have been described for two-layer and three-layer laminates, as will be appreciated, any number of layers may be utilized. Layers of laminate material may be selected to provide the desired mechanical and tactile function. For example, a thicker material may provide a better feel to the user opening the flap. Different aspects of the package require different properties and may require design compromise to select the appropriate material. For example, the body of the package may preferably have a thicker material to provide a more rigid package, while the flap may preferably use a thinner material to make it more comfortable to open the closure . The relative thicknesses of the materials may also affect the performance of the product. For example, thickening the metallization layer will have a different effect than thickening the plastic layer.

The PSA is selected such that sufficient engagement is provided to maintain the flap 21 in the closed position while also opening the flap by application of an appropriate force. The PSA can be used to join the layers 201 and 202 in other areas remote from the area 23 holding the flap 21. [ The strength of the PSA bond in the other regions can be modified relative to the strength of the bond used for the flap region 23. [ Advantageously, in order to prevent delamination during use, the bonding of the other regions may be of higher strength than the bonding of the regions 23. [ The required bond can be achieved by selection of an appropriate adhesive and / or by the amount by which the adhesive is utilized.

Although the illustrated example is a standard size and shape of a cigarette box, the package may be designed for any quantity of product and is not limited to the size and / or shape shown in the illustrated example. The size of the cover for the body of the container can be modified as needed. The package is not limited to packages for tobacco products, and may be applied to packages for other types of products, for example confectionery or food.

Figure 13 shows a web 70 of laminate material for forming the wrappers described above. The web 70 comprises a continuous length of laminate material. The web 70 can be divided into pieces 71 by cutting along the lines 72. [ Each piece 71 is used to form the wrapping paper 20. The web has cut lines 205, 206, 207, 208 for defining the flap 21. Typically, the outer surface of the web is printed with labeling marks.

Now, a method of packaging the product will be described with reference to Fig. At block 401, a container is provided. The container has a body and a cover. The container has a contact line between the body and the lid. At block 402, the container is filled with a product such as a tobacco industry product (e.g., cigarette) or food. At block 403, the laminate wrapper is fitted around the container. The wrapper is fitted so that the fragile lines of the wrapper coincide with the contact line between the body of the container and the cover. The edges of the wrapping paper 20 are sealed. At block 403, the wrapper 20 is sealed to the container 10. This can be accomplished in a variety of ways. In the first mode, an adhesive is applied to the outer surface of the container 10 (e.g., to the front surface 1 of the lid), and the wrapper is attached to the container when fitted. In the second mode, an adhesive is applied to the inner surface of the wrapping paper 20 before the wrapping paper is fitted around the container 10, and the wrapping paper is attached to the container when it is fitted. In the third method, a wrapping paper 20 having an adhesive layer is provided in advance. The adhesive layer may be covered by the cover sheet during storage of the wrapper. When the wrapping paper is fitted to the container, the cover sheet is removed to expose the adhesive, and the wrapping paper is attached to the container when it is fitted around the container.

It will be appreciated that the benefits and advantages described above may be related to one embodiment or may relate to some embodiments. Embodiments are not limited to solving any or all of the problems mentioned or solving any or all of the benefits and advantages mentioned.

Reference to an "an" item refers to one or more of the items. The term 'comprising' is intended to include the identified method blocks or elements, but such blocks or elements do not include an exclusive list, and the method or apparatus may include additional blocks or elements.

The steps of the methods described herein may be performed in any suitable order or, if appropriate, simultaneously. In addition, individual blocks may be deleted from any method without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. The aspects of any of the embodiments described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form additional examples without losing the desired effect.

It will be appreciated that the above description of the preferred embodiment is given by way of example only and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. While the various embodiments have been described above with reference to a certain degree or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art will be able to make many modifications to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

Claims (17)

As a package,
A container comprising a body and a lid, said lid being attached to the body by a hinge, the lid being movable between a closed position and an open position wherein the lid is in contact with the body along a contact line;
A wrapper of flexible multi-layer laminate sheet material surrounding said container,
Wherein,
A first layer;
A second layer outside the first layer;
A first cut line of the first layer not present in the second layer, the first cut line defining a first region of the first layer over the cover;
Wherein at least a portion of the second cut line of the second layer not in the first layer is offset from the first cut line and the second cut line defines a second region of the second layer The second region on the lid and the second layer including a peripheral portion extending beyond the lid;
A resealable adhesive between the perimeter portion of the second layer and the first layer;
Wherein the peripheral portion of the second layer is detachable from the first layer and can be used to lift the lid to the open position and wherein the peripheral portion is resiliently sealed to the first layer,
package. The method according to claim 1,
Wherein the first cut line is aligned with the contact line between the cover and the body,
package. 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2,
Wherein the container comprises a front, a rear and two sides, the hinge being located on the rear surface, the contact line extending along the front and the two sides of the container,
package. The method of claim 3,
Wherein the first cut line is offset from the second cut line by a smaller amount on the sides of the container relative to the front side of the container,
package. The method of claim 3,
Wherein the first cut line is located with the second cut line on the sides of the container,
package. 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2,
Wherein the container includes a front, a rear, two side surfaces and a top surface, the lid being a flap comprising at least a portion of the top surface of the container and a cut at the front surface.
package. The method according to claim 6,
Wherein the flap is attached to the first region of the wrapper and is movable with the flap portion when the peripheral portion of the second layer is lifted,
package. 8. The method according to claim 6 or 7,
The hinge being located on an edge of the container between the top surface and the back surface,
package. 9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8,
Wherein the second cut line is offset from the top surface of the container and the first cut line on the front surface to provide a perimeter area around the perimeter of the flap,
package. 10. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 9,
The contact line being offset inwardly from a side edge of the top surface and a side edge of the front surface,
package. 11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
Wherein the wrapper is attached to the cover of the container,
package. 12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
The wrapper being attached to the body of the container,
package. 13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
The first cut line being a fragile line requiring an opening force to separate the first layer along the fragile line,
package. 14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
Said second cut line being a fragile line requiring an opening force to separate said second layer along a fragile line,
package. The method according to claim 13 or 14,
Wherein the fragile line is one of a perforation line, a score line, a scribe line, and a crenellated line,
package. CLAIMS What is claimed is: 1. A wrapper for a flexible multi-layer laminate sheet material for forming a package around a container of the type comprising a body and a cover,
Wherein the cover is attached to the body by a hinge, the cover being movable between a closed position and an open position in which the cover is placed against the body along a contact line, the wrapper comprising a flexible multi- A laminate sheet material, comprising:
A first layer;
A second layer outside the first layer;
A first cut line of the first layer not present in the second layer, the first cut line defining a first region of the first layer such that the first cut line is above the cover;
Wherein at least a portion of the second cut line of the second layer not in the first layer is offset from the first cut line and the second cut line defines a second region of the second layer The second region being configured to rest on the lid and the second layer including a peripheral portion extending beyond the lid;
A resealable adhesive between the perimeter portion of the second layer and the first layer;
Wherein the peripheral portion of the second layer is detachable from the first layer and can be used to lift the lid to the open position and wherein the peripheral portion is resiliently sealed to the first layer,
wrapping paper. A method of forming a package,
Providing a container comprising a body and a lid, the lid being attached to the body by a hinge, the lid being movable between a closed position and an open position wherein the lid is placed against the body along a contact line;
Comprising the steps of: fitting a package of flexible multi-layer laminate sheet material surrounding said container,
The wrapping paper,
A first layer;
A second layer outside the first layer;
A first cut line of the first layer not present in the second layer, the first cut line defining a first region of the first layer over the cover;
Wherein at least a portion of the second cut line of the second layer not in the first layer is offset from the first cut line and the second cut line defines a second region of the second layer The second region on the lid and the second layer including a peripheral portion extending beyond the lid;
A resealable adhesive between the perimeter portion of the second layer and the first layer;
Wherein the peripheral portion of the second layer is detachable from the first layer and can be used to lift the lid to the open position and wherein the peripheral portion is resiliently sealed to the first layer,
A method of forming a package.

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