KR20230169083A - Storage and dispensing containers for products with orifices - Google Patents

Abstract

A container including a lid for storing a product is disclosed. The flexible pouch has a bottom, top, and side portions and includes a plurality of sheets, the sheets being stacked and connected to each other through connections and connections connecting the tissues on only one side of the stack, most of the connections being disposed on the same side of the laminate, wherein the orifice in the upper portion has a width extending between the first side edge and the second side edge and the length dimension defines the longest dimension of the orifice, where the second side edge extends between the first side edge and the second side edge. Closer to the right end of the stack than the edge, the portion of the second side edge disposed closest to the right end of the stack is located 30 to 50 mm from the connection on the right side of the stack.

Description

Storage and dispensing containers for products with orifices

The present invention relates to storage and dispensing containers for products having an orifice.

Consumer products, such as disposable wipes, are often sold in packages designed to store and dispense the product. Tissues have been made from a variety of materials that can be dry or wet in use. Wet wipes can be moistened with a variety of suitable wiping solutions. Disposable wet wipes are often sold in rigid canisters or flexible pouches that include a dispensing orifice for pulling the tissue from the interior of the canister or pouch. These packages typically provide a sealed environment for the wet wipes to ensure that they do not become dirty or overdry. A removable and resealable flap or lid typically covers the dispensing orifice so that when tissues are not being dispensed, the canister or pouch is sealed to the outside environment to prevent moisture loss from the plurality of wet tissues contained therein.

Mechanisms for opening the flap or lid vary. In a typical "push button" design, the lid is closed via a latching mechanism. In the closed position, the compressed spring is under tension against the underside of the lid. When the open button is pressed, a latch mechanism releases the lid and a compressed spring releases its tension to lower the lid to the open position. Other mechanisms include simple hinge designs without such compressed springs. These lids may require the user to unlatch the lid and fully open it.

Typically, wet wipes are stacked within a container in a folded or non-folded configuration. For example, as is well known to those skilled in the art, each wet tissue stacked in the container is arranged in a folded configuration such as a c-fold, z-fold, or quarter-fold configuration. Sometimes, each folded wet tissue is interfolded with the wipes immediately above and below it in a stack of tissues. In an alternative configuration, the wet wipes were disposed within the container in the form of a continuous web of material comprising perforations suitable to enable individual wet wipes to be separated from the continuous web of material upon application of a pulling force. These wipes were used in baby tissues, hand tissues, personal hygiene tissues, household cleaning tissues, and industrial tissues.

Some of the conventional packages are also configured to dispense each wipe "one at a time", which can be accomplished using one hand after the package has been opened. This dispensing of one sheet at a time by one hand is particularly desirable because the remaining hands of the user or caregiver typically have to be used simultaneously for other functions.

The “pop-up” configuration of the wet tissue dispenser may advantageously provide for dispensing one at a time by one hand as mentioned above. In a "pop-up" configuration, when removing a tissue from the dispenser, the tissue is in operative contact with the preceding tissue in the package, either through abutment, adhesive bonding, or integral connection along a line of weakness. , pull along the leading edge of the trailing tissue. Preferably, as the leading tissue is pulled outward from the package, the trailing end of the leading tissue separates from the leading end of the trailing tissue, leaving the trailing end of the trailing tissue protruding from the package. In this way, the leading edge of the trailing tissue is immediately and automatically positioned for subsequent withdrawal from the package, with the previously trailing tissue now becoming the leading tissue.

Further advancements in this area of technology represent an ongoing need to provide a more user-friendly dispensing experience, especially for one-at-a-time and single-handed dispensing.

In a first embodiment, a flexible pouch for storing and dispensing a plurality of product sheets has a bottom portion, wherein a side portion is adjacent to the bottom portion and each side portion is adjacent to an adjacent side portion and the side portion extends away from the bottom portion, wherein the side portion is adjacent to the bottom portion. is also adjacent to the upper end, the upper end overlying the lower end and generally parallel to the lower end, wherein the plurality of product sheets are positioned within the pouch, wherein the pouch has a pouch transverse dimension extending along a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction. The pouch has a longitudinal dimension extending along the pouch, the transverse dimension of the pouch being greater than the longitudinal dimension of the pouch, and disposed in a folded stacked state within the pouch, extending longitudinally and having a transverse right end and a transverse left end of the stack. a plurality of sheets of product collectively defining a stack having a stack transverse right end and a stack transverse left end with a stack longitudinal centerline located midway between the ends, the stack comprising: The body further defines a right side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate and a left side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse left end of the laminate, each sheet connected to at least one other sheet of the stack via a connector, the majority of the connector connecting successive tissues being disposed entirely on only one of the right and left sides of the stack, and connecting the successive tissues to the right and left sides of the stack. The majority of the joints connecting entirely on only one of the left sides of the sieve include a dispensing orifice in the lower end and an upper end disposed on the right side of the laminate, wherein the dispensing orifice is disposed in the transverse dimension between the orifice first side edge and the orifice first side edge. an orifice width dimension extending between two side edges, wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge and extend in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction. wherein the orifice length dimension defines the longest dimension of the dispensing orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge is located closer to the transverse right end of the stack than the orifice first side edge, The portion of the orifice second side edge disposed closest to the transverse right end of the laminate is located 30 mm to 50 mm from the majority of the connections disposed on the right side of the laminate.

In a second embodiment, a flexible pouch for storing and dispensing a plurality of sheets of a product has a lower end, wherein a side portion is adjacent to the lower portion and each side portion is adjacent to an adjacent side portion and the side portion extends away from the lower portion, The side portions are also adjacent the top portion and the top portion overlies and is generally parallel to the bottom portion, wherein the plurality of product sheets are positioned within the pouch, wherein the pouch has a pouch transverse dimension and length extending along a transverse direction. having a pouch longitudinal dimension extending along a direction, wherein the pouch transverse dimension is greater than the pouch longitudinal dimension, and disposed in a folded stacked state within the pouch, extending longitudinally and having a transverse right end and a transverse right end of the stack transversely. a plurality of sheets of product collectively defining a stack having a stack transverse right end and a stack transverse left end with a laminate longitudinal centerline positioned midway between the directional left ends; The laminate further defines a right side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate and a left side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse left end of the laminate, each A sheet is connected to at least one other sheet of the stack via a connector, wherein the majority of the connector connecting successive tissues is disposed entirely on either the right side of the stack or the left side of the stack, and connects the successive tissues to the right side of the stack. and a dispensing orifice in the lower portion, and the upper portion, wherein the majority of the joints connecting entirely on only one of the left sides of the stack are disposed on the right side of the stack, wherein the dispensing orifices are: from the orifice first side edge to the orifice second side. an orifice width dimension extending transversely to an edge, wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge, and wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge. At least one of the side edges includes a convex shape; an orifice length dimension extending along the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, wherein the orifice length dimension defines the longest dimension of the dispensing orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge is further than the orifice first side edge. disposed closer to the transverse right end of the laminate, and a portion of the second side edge of the orifice disposed closest to the transverse right end of the laminate is disposed 30 mm to 50 mm from the connection portion disposed on the right side of the laminate. .

In a third embodiment, a flexible pouch for storing and dispensing a plurality of sheets of a product is provided, comprising: a lower portion, a side portion adjacent to the lower portion, each side portion adjacent to an adjacent side portion and the side portion extending away from the lower portion; The side portions are also adjacent the top portion and the top portion overlies and is generally parallel to the bottom portion, wherein the plurality of product sheets are positioned within the pouch, wherein the pouch has a pouch transverse dimension and length extending along a transverse direction. having a pouch longitudinal dimension extending along a direction, wherein the pouch transverse dimension is greater than the pouch longitudinal dimension, and disposed in a folded stacked state within the pouch, extending longitudinally and having a transverse right end and a transverse right end of the stack transversely. a plurality of sheets of product collectively defining a stack having a stack transverse right end and a stack transverse left end with a laminate longitudinal centerline positioned midway between the directional left ends; The laminate further defines a right side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate and a left side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse left end of the laminate, each A sheet is connected to at least one other sheet of the stack via a connector, wherein the majority of the connector connecting successive tissues is disposed entirely on either the right side of the stack or the left side of the stack, and connects the successive tissues to the right side of the stack. and a dispensing orifice in the lower portion, and the upper portion, wherein the majority of the joints connecting entirely on only one of the left sides of the stack are disposed on the right side of the stack, wherein the dispensing orifices are: from the orifice first side edge to the orifice second side. an orifice width dimension extending transversely to an edge, wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge, and wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge. At least one of the side edges includes a convex shape; an orifice length dimension extending in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, the orifice length dimension defining the longest dimension of the dispensing orifice, a flange connected to the pouch and disposed about the orifice, and a lid. A lid assembly may include a lid coupled to the flange via a hinge that rotates from a closed position to an open position, the flange comprising an interior wall defining an aperture and extending from a second side edge of the orifice in a transverse direction. The distance between the longitudinal midpoint and the inner wall of the flange is less than 10 mm.

1A representatively illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a container and a push-button lid, with the push-button lid shown in a closed configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present invention;
Figure 1B representatively illustrates a perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1A, wherein the push button lid is shown in an open configuration, further showing the orifice of the container, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;
Figure 2 is a representative top plan view of the embodiment of Figure 1A, wherein the push button lid is shown in an open configuration, showing the orifice of the container, in accordance with an aspect of the invention;
3A representatively illustrates a perspective view of a further embodiment of a container and an alternative flip lid, with the flip lid shown in a closed configuration, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
Figure 3B representatively shows a perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 3A, with the flip lid shown in an open configuration, further showing the orifice of the container, in accordance with aspects of the invention;
Figure 4 representatively shows a top plan view of the embodiment of Figure 3A, with the flip lid shown in an open configuration, showing the orifice of the container, in accordance with aspects of the invention;
Figure 5 representatively illustrates a top plan view of an exemplary orifice of the invention, shown in isolation, in accordance with aspects of the invention.
Figure 6 representatively shows a plurality of integrally interconnected tissues according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 7 representatively shows a plurality of integrally interconnected tissues according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 8A representatively shows a front view of a stack of folded, interconnected tissues such as those shown in any of Figures 6 and 7;
Figure 8B representatively shows a top view of a stack of folded, interconnected tissues such as those shown in any of Figures 6 and 7;
Figure 8C representatively shows a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stack of tissues as seen along line XX-XX in Figure 8B, wherein the tissue-to-tissue connections alternate on the sides of the stack;
Figure 8D representatively shows a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a stack of tissues taken along line XX-XX in Figure 8B, wherein the tissue-tissue connections are all on the same side of the stack;
Figure 9 representatively shows a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a container holding a stack of tissues as seen along line XX in Figure 2, showing the sides of the tissue-to-tissue connection to the orifice;
Figure 10 is a representative cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a container holding a stack of tissues as seen along line XX in Figure 2, showing a side view of the stack of tissues associated with the container.
Repeated use of reference characters throughout the specification and drawings is intended to indicate the same or similar features or elements of the invention.

The present invention will be more fully understood and further features will become apparent upon reference to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. The drawings are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Similar parts of the package shown in the drawings are referred to by the same reference numerals.

In certain embodiments, container 20 is suitable for storing and dispensing a product, such as a stack of wet wipes 22 or a sheet from a roll. Other examples of products suitable for use with container 20 include beauty tissues, disinfecting towels, paper towels, feminine hygiene products, etc. Container 20 includes a housing 14. Housing 14 may be rigid, such as a plastic container (not shown). Alternatively, housing 14 may be flexible, such as a flexible pouch 24, for storing a stack or roll of tissue 22. Flexible pouch 24 may be made from any suitable flexible substrate, including polymer films, non-woven fabrics, fabrics, rubbers, foils, etc. Housing 14 or flexible pouch 24 defines an interior space 26 and an exterior surface 29 generally facing away from interior space 26. The housing 14 or pouch 24 defines a dispensing orifice 27 through which tissues 22 can be individually extracted from the interior space 26 . In certain embodiments, housing 14 or pouch 24 is substantially impermeable to moisture, such as when used to receive pre-moistened tissue.

The container may also include a rigid flip top assembly 30. Assembly 30 includes a lid 50 connected to a flange 60 via a hinge 52 . Lid 50 is configured to move about a hinge 52 from a closed configuration (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1A or FIG. 3A for assembly 30') to an open configuration (e.g., for assembly 30'). It can be rotated as shown in Figure 1b or Figure 3b). The flange 60 is disposed on the outer surface 29 of the housing 14, for example by being attached to the outer surface 29 of the pouch 24, for example via an adhesive. Alternatively, the flange may be formed integrally with the housing 14.

The lid 50 covers the dispensing orifice 27 when the lid 50 is in the closed position, and the lid 50 exposes the dispensing orifice 27 when the lid 50 is in the open position. Lid 50 may optionally include a lid moisture retention ridge (35). The flange component 60 may also optionally include a flange moisture retention ridge 65 suitable for sealing against the lid moisture retention ridge 35 when the lid 50 is in the closed position, which Helps seal (26). Such a seal may be desirable to help prevent the wipes 22 from drying out over time.

Typically, assembly 30 may define an interior region 54 bounded by the interior wall of flange 60 . Interior region 54 may represent an aperture passing through flange 60 . The interior wall of flange 60 may, but need not, be defined by flange moisture retention ridges 65 in all embodiments. The inner region 54 of the flange 60 may overlap the orifice 27 such that the orifice 27 is disposed within the inner region 54, such that the inner wall of the flange 60 surrounds the orifice 27. You can. In this configuration, the entirety of the rigid flip top assembly 30 is disposed outside of the dispensing orifice 27 from which product can be drawn from the interior space 26. The rigid flip top assembly 30 may be considered to be “disposed outside of the dispensing orifice” with the assembly 30 being disposed above the dispensing orifice 27 . In this way, by aligning the orifice 27 and the inner region 54, the tissue 22 within the housing 14 can be distributed through both the orifice 27 and the inner region 54 of the flange 60. and tissues may be dispensed through housing 14 and lid assembly 30 (or 30').

In some embodiments, assembly 30 is a “push button” lid that provides automatic opening by pressing a button or similar feature, as shown in Figures 1A-2. Such an assembly 30 may include, for example, a spring component or lever configuration as in US20200260922A1 to Rolfs et al. entitled “Container having a push-button activated, pop-open lid”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The element may be included to provide energy for automatic opening of the lid 50. In another embodiment, the flip top assembly may be a conventional flip top that requires effort from the user to open and rotate the lid 50 to the open position. 3A-4 illustrate this exemplary assembly 30'.

The housing 14 extends in the transverse direction 11 and the longitudinal direction 13. The housing includes an upper part 71 and a lower part 73 connected through side parts 75a, 75b and 77a, 77b. The side portions 75a, 75b and 77a, 77b are all adjacent to the bottom portion 73, and each side portion is adjacent to the adjacent side portion. The side portions 75a, 75b and 77a, 77b extend further from the lower portion 73 and are all adjacent to the upper portion 71, with the upper portion covering the lower portion 73. In at least some embodiments, the top portion 71, bottom portion 73, and side portions 75a, 75b and 77a, 77b may all be integrally connected together. As particularly shown in FIGS. 1A and 3A , the pouch 24 is rectangular in certain embodiments, but may be of various shapes as long as it has a bottom 73 adjacent at least one side (e.g., the side is cylindrical). It could be a different shape. Advantageously, the top portion 71 may be generally parallel to the bottom portion 73, although this need not be the case in all embodiments.

Housing 14 has a longitudinal dimension 74 extending between side portions 75a, 75b as well as a transverse width dimension 72 extending between transverse side ends 79a, 79b. The housing 14 has a longitudinal center line 76 dividing the housing 14 into a left transverse side disposed between the left transverse side end 79a and the longitudinal center line 76 and a right transverse side end 79b. ) and a right transverse side disposed between the longitudinal center line 76.

When the housing 14 is a flexible pouch 24, the housing 14 is sealed at least at the transverse side ends 79a, 79b to prevent moisture, for example, when the product includes a wet tissue 22. can be maintained. According to some embodiments, the flexible pouch 24 may further include a transversely extending sealing portion (not shown) extending over the entire transverse width 72 of the flexible pouch 24. Such a seal is typical when flexible pouch 24 is formed from a single, continuous piece of material.

As most clearly shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 , the assembly 30 (or 30') is open transversely 11 toward, for example, one of the transverse side ends 79a, 79b. It can be sorted as much as possible. Accordingly, the hinge 52 may be oriented generally perpendicular to the transverse direction 11 . However, the hinges 52 of the assembly 30 (or 30') need not be oriented exactly in the transverse direction 11. For example, the hinge 52 may be oriented so that the axis of rotation about which the lid 50 rotates forms an angle of less than 10 degrees, or less than 5 degrees, with respect to the longitudinal direction 13.

2 is a top plan view of the housing 14 of FIGS. 1A and 1B including longitudinal centerline 76. In some embodiments, flip top assembly 30 may be oriented off-center with respect to longitudinal centerline 76. For example, flip top assembly 30 may be positioned closer to one of the transverse side ends 79a and 79b. Additionally, the lid 50 may be configured to open toward the transverse side ends 79a and 79b to which the assembly 30 is closest. In the example of FIG. 2 , the assembly 30 is positioned proximate the first transverse side end 79a and the lid 50 is configured to open towards the first transverse side end 79a. This offset nature of assembly 30 may provide advantages with respect to distribution of tissue 22 within housing 14.

As can be seen in Figure 2, it may be the case that the orifice 27 is oriented off-center with respect to the longitudinal center line 76. In at least some of these embodiments, assembly 30 may be centered about longitudinal centerline 76, but orifice 27 is off-center about longitudinal centerline. In some of these embodiments, the orifice first side edge 81 may be disposed entirely on one side of the longitudinal centerline 76. However, in other embodiments, most of the periphery of the orifice first side edge 81 may be disposed closer to one of the ends 79a, 79b, while a portion of the orifice first side edge 81 may be positioned longitudinally. It may intersect with the center line 76. In another embodiment, longitudinal centerline 76 may extend exactly through orifice top edge 82 and orifice bottom edge 84. Certain preferred locations of orifices 27 are described in greater detail below.

Figure 5 is a top plan view of the separated orifice 27. According to aspects of the invention, as described herein, the specific shape of orifice 27 is an important contributor to low failure rates and successful dispensing. As used herein, successful dispensing generally means that when the tissue is separated from the dispenser, the trailing tissue is in operative contact with the preceding tissue, such as by interfolding along a perforation line, adhesive bonding, or integral connection. , means the tissue is pulled along the leading edge of the trailing tissue of the package. Preferably, as the leading tissue is pulled outward from the package, the trailing end of the leading tissue separates from the leading end of the trailing tissue, leaving the trailing end of the trailing tissue protruding from the package. In this way, the leading edge of the trailing tissue is immediately and automatically positioned for subsequent withdrawal from the package, with the previously trailing tissue now becoming the leading tissue.

Historically, two types of malfunctions or failures can occur during the operations just described: In one scenario, as the leading tissue is withdrawn, it may not properly release from the trailing tissue, resulting in the trailing tissue being pulled too far or even completely out of the package. A situation in which more than one trailing tissue is withdrawn from the package in a single pulling motion by actuating contact with the preceding tissue is referred to herein as a "multiples". Multiples may be caused by excessively strong or geometrically inefficient connections between subsequent tissues (e.g., too much glue or insufficient web perforation), or by not holding the trailing tissue in place sufficiently to allow the leading tissue to break away. This can be caused by a dispensing orifice (e.g., a dispensing orifice that is too large).

In other scenarios, as the leading tissue is withdrawn, the trailing tissue may not be easily accessible for subsequent distribution after being separated from the leading tissue. For example, although the leading edge of the trailing tissue may momentarily protrude from the package as it follows the leading tissue during withdrawal of the leading tissue, the leading edge of the trailing tissue often later retracts through the dispensing orifice and into the dispensing container, as defined herein in " It's called "fallback." Fallback may be caused by an insufficiently strong or geometrically inefficient connection between trailing tissues (e.g., insufficient adhesive or too weak a weak line), or by not sufficiently holding the leading edge of the trailing tissue protruding outward. This can be caused by a dispensing orifice (e.g., a dispensing orifice that is too large). Occasionally, for example, when the connection between the leading and trailing tissues is broken prematurely (i.e., before the leading tissue is fully withdrawn), the trailing tissue may not be fully released from the package as the leading tissue is withdrawn.

As can be seen, orifice 27 includes an orifice first side edge 81 and an orifice second side edge 83 extending between orifice top edge 82 and orifice bottom edge 84. Orifice top edge 82 and orifice bottom edge 84 may each be the point where orifice first side edge 81 joins orifice second side edge 83. Orifice top edge 82 and orifice bottom edge 84 may be located at the uppermost and lowermost points of orifice 27, respectively. That is, the orifice 27 may extend in the longitudinal direction 13 and have a length dimension 85 measured between a point having the same longitudinal position as the orifice top edge 82 and the orifice bottom edge 84. According to some embodiments, length dimension 85 defines both the longest dimension in the longitudinal direction 13 and the largest dimension of orifice 27 . For example, the orifice 27 may be longer (in the longitudinal direction 13) than the orifice 27 is wider (in the transverse direction 11). Orifice 27 may further include a width dimension 87 . In these embodiments, the width dimension 87 may be determined as the maximum dimension of the orifice 26 in the transverse direction 11. According to some embodiments of the invention, the maximum transverse dimension of orifice 27 is between orifice top edge 82 and orifice bottom edge 84, for example, as defined by mid-transverse axis 86. It is located at the midpoint between

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the orifice 27, the length dimension 85 can be between 44 mm and 60 mm. A length of 44 to 60 mm is advantageous in that it provides a sufficiently large opening in the longitudinal direction 13 into which the user can fit two fingers to grip the edge of the sheet of product 22, which is typically It may be oriented in the transverse direction (11) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (13). The width dimension 87 may preferably be between 20 mm and 40 mm, more preferably between 25 mm and 35 mm. This width dimension 87 similarly allows for a comfortable dispensing experience for the user by providing sufficient space to grip the edges of a sheet of product 22 placed within the housing 14. This width dimension 87 is also important to provide desirable pop-up dispensing functionality with minimal failure, as described in more detail below.

Another important aspect of the orifice 27 is the shape of the orifice first side edge 81 and the orifice second side edge 83. According to aspects of the invention, it has been found advantageous if at least one of the orifice first side edge 81 and the orifice second side edge 83 has a convex shape. For example, as can be seen in Figure 5, the first orifice side edge 81 has a curved shape, where the orifice first side edge 81 is adjacent to the orifice top edge 82 and the orifice bottom edge 84. extends outward from In further embodiments, the orifice second side edge 83 may alternatively include a convex shape. Again in the example of FIG. 5 , the orifice second side edge 83 has a curved shape, extending outwardly from the orifice top edge 82 and the orifice bottom edge 84 and away from the orifice first side edge 81. An orifice second side edge 83 can be seen. Of course, as in the example of Figure 5, both the orifice first side edge 81 and the orifice second side edge 83 may include a convex shape.

In at least some of these embodiments, as in the embodiment of FIG. 5 , the orifice first side edge 81 extends further from the orifice top edge 82 and the orifice bottom edge 84 than the orifice second side edge 83. Can extend far. In this way, the orifice first side edge 81 may have a greater overall degree of curvature than the orifice second side edge 83. As will be explained in more detail, it may be desirable for the second side edge 83 to have a relatively flat shape. Accordingly, to provide the desired width dimension 87 of orifice 27, in this embodiment, orifice first side edge 81 is required to have a greater degree of curvature than orifice second side edge 83.

By providing a convex shape to one or both of the orifice first side edge 81 and the orifice second side edge 83, the orifice 27, having its maximum dimension extending in the longitudinal direction 13, is configured to be positioned in the lid assembly 30. ), the stated dimensions can be achieved within the boundaries of the interior area of the lid assembly. For example, as can be seen in Figures 1-2, lid assembly 30 provides a relatively narrow interior area 54. In fact, as can be seen, the inner region 54 is close to the same shape and size as the orifice 27. Accordingly, to achieve dimensions of orifice 27 such that the user is comfortable gripping the edge of the sheet of product 22 through orifice 27, orifice first side edge 81 and/or orifice second side edge 81 It may be more important in some embodiments that the side edges 83 do not have any concave portions.

It has also been found that in order to provide the desired pop-up dispensing experience with minimal failure, the orifice second side edge 83 should have a relatively flat shape, as shown in Figure 5. Preferably, it has been found that a tangent drawn tangent to any point on the orifice second side edge 83 should form an angle of less than 20 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction 13. To illustrate this feature, in FIG. 5 an angle 91 can be seen forming an angle between the longitudinal direction 13 and an exemplary tangent 90 . It has been found that, in a more preferred embodiment, a tangent drawn tangent to any point on the orifice second side edge 83 should form an angle of less than 10 degrees, or less than 5 degrees, with respect to the longitudinal direction 13.

Another aspect of the shape of the orifice 27 may be most important, that the central portion of the orifice second side edge 83 has a relatively flat shape, which has It may be less important that the portion of the orifice second side edge 83 that is most closely disposed has a relatively flat shape. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a tangent drawn tangent to any point on orifice second side edge 83 within central portion 93 is less than 20 degrees, or less than 10 degrees, or less than 5 degrees relative to longitudinal direction 13. It is desirable to form an angle of According to some aspects of the invention, the central portion 93 of the orifice second side edge 83 extends longitudinally 13 from the orifice top edge 82 or the orifice bottom edge 84 of the orifice length dimension 85. It may be a portion of the orifice second side edge 83 spaced apart by a distance exceeding 5%. According to further aspects, the central portion 93 of the orifice second side edge 83 extends longitudinally 13 by a distance greater than 10%, greater than 15%, or greater than 20% of the orifice length dimension 85. It may be a portion of the orifice top edge 82 or the orifice second side edge 83 disposed spaced apart from the orifice bottom edge 84.

According to at least some embodiments of the invention, a relatively flat shape for the orifice second side edge 83 may be desirable, although the orifice second side edge 83 should not be parallel to the longitudinal direction 13. It may be possible. Orifices 27 with such parallel side edges can be difficult to machine in a repeatable manner. Accordingly, in some contemplated embodiments of the invention, a tangent drawn tangent to each point on the orifice second side edge 83 may form an angle greater than 0 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction 13. In a more preferred embodiment, a tangent drawn tangent to each point on the orifice second side edge 83 may form an angle greater than 2 degrees, or greater than 4 degrees, or greater than 5 degrees, with respect to the longitudinal direction 13. However, further embodiments of the orifice second side edge 83 may allow at least some portion or portions to be disposed parallel to the longitudinal direction 13, although such portion or portions generally are positioned parallel to the orifice second side edge 83. It may be less than 10% or less than 5% of the periphery.

In experiments to determine the preferred orientation of orifice 27, a number of different orifice 27 orientations were tested with respect to dispensing failure. For example, an orifice was tested with the orientation shown in Figure 2, rotated 90 degrees clockwise from the orientation shown in Figure 2, rotated 180 degrees clockwise from the orientation shown in Figure 2, and rotated 180 degrees clockwise from the orientation shown in Figure 2. It was rotated 270 degrees clockwise from the orientation. In each of these configurations, assembly 30 was also rotated the same amount. As shown in Figure 2, it was found that a particular orientation of the orifice second side edge 83 achieved an average dispense failure date of approximately 4.5%. In contrast, the same test gave an average failure rate of 10.5% with orifice 27 and assembly 30 rotated 180 degrees clockwise from the orientation shown in Figure 2. This experiment helped to understand the importance of the orientation of the orifice second side edge 83 and its greater relative flatness than the orifice first side edge 81. This specific orientation will be described in more detail below.

Another important feature of the orifice 27 and flange 60 for successful dispensing with low failure rates is the location of the orifice second side edge 83 and the inner wall of the flange 60. For example, as can be seen in Figures 2 and 4, distance 95 defines the minimum distance between the orifice second side edge 83 and the inner wall of flange 60, where distance 95 is It is measured at the midpoint of the orifice in the longitudinal direction (13). 2 and 4, the inner wall of flange 60 is shown as defined by moisture retention ridge 65, although this need not be the case in all embodiments. For example, moisture retention ridges 65 may be disposed on the outside of the inner wall of flange 60. Nonetheless, it can be important to achieve successful dispensing with low failure rates when the distance 95 is small, such as less than 10 mm, less than 7.5 mm, less than 5 mm, less than 3 mm, or less than 2 mm. This small value for the distance 95 ensures that the second side edge 83 of the orifice 27 is positioned close to the inner wall of the flange 60, thereby ensuring that at least the housing 14 is flexible packaging. The rigidity of the containing flange 60 may help ensure consistent separation of the tissue within the stack 22 . For example, if the distance 95 is too large, the tissue being dispensed from the orifice 27 will cause the second side edge 83 to bend and bend to a greater degree, causing the connected tissue of the stack 22 to be dispensed. reduces the power to and thus increases the 'multiple' distribution failure rate. Conversely, when the distance 95 is in the desired range, the stiffness of the flange 60 adjacent the second side edge 83 helps prevent the orifice second side edge 83 from bending and bending, thereby distributing This results in a relatively increased force on the tissues, helping to ensure separation of successive tissues as they are dispensed from the orifice 27.

Turning to the details of the product 22 within the housing 14 that contribute to a successful dispensing experience, there are important aspects related to the seating of the product 22. 6 and 7 each illustrate an exemplary plurality of integrally interconnected sheet products 110, collectively defining a web 112. 8A-8D illustrate an exemplary plurality of integrally interconnected sheet products 110 arranged in a laminate configuration 213. 6-8D, the plurality of integrally interconnected sheet products 110 may be wet tissues. However, it should be understood that this is only one exemplary product 22 according to the present invention.

8A-8D, the present invention contemplates a plurality of interconnected tissues 110 arranged in a stacked configuration and collectively defining a stack 213. The laminate 213 has a right end 214, a left end 216, a horizontal direction 222 extending between the right end 214 and the left end 216, and a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the horizontal direction 222 ( 220), and a longitudinal center line 221 extending in the longitudinal direction 220 and located midway between the right end 214 and the left end 216. The laminate 213 defines a right side 215 in the horizontal direction between the longitudinal center line 221 and the right end 214 and a left side 217 in the horizontal direction between the longitudinal center line 221 and the left end 216. ) is limited. In the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 8A-8D, each tissue is folded in half lengthwise 220. Figure 8b shows a top view of the stack of folded tissues of Figure 8a. The leading edge 229 of the tissue at the top of the stack 213 is visible in Figure 8B.

As representatively shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 8C and 8D, in certain embodiments, each tissue is connected to the right side of stack 213 via a connection (e.g., connection 142, 152). It is connected to at least one other tissue at only one of 215 and left 217. FIGS. 8C and 8D show cross-sectional views of an alternative embodiment of the stack 213 of FIG. 8B as seen along line XX-XX. In certain embodiments, such as those shown in FIGS. 6 and 8C , the connections 142 , 152 running adjacently in the stacking direction 219 are connected to the right and left sides 215 , 217 of the stack 213 . There are alternately. In other embodiments, such as those shown in FIGS. 7 and 8D , connections 142a, 142b that run adjacently in the stacking direction 219 are on the same side of the stack (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8D). It is on the right (215). Figure 6 shows several interconnected tissues from the stack shown in Figure 8c, and Figure 7 shows several interconnected tissues from the stack shown in Figure 8d, with a plurality of interconnected tissues in each case. Unfolded and fully extended, it displays a variety of features.

For example, referring to FIGS. 6 and 8C , in certain embodiments, the plurality of tissues 110 includes a first tissue 130, a second tissue 132, and a third tissue 134. . The right connecting portion 142 connects the first tissue 130 to the second tissue 132 on the right side 215 of the stack 213. The first tissue 130 is connected to the second tissue 132 only at the right side 215 of the stack 213 . Additionally, the left connecting portion 152 connects the second tissue 132 to the third tissue 134 on the left side 217 of the stack 213. The second tissue 132 is connected to the third tissue 134 only at the left side 217 of the stack 213 .

In another example, referring to FIGS. 7 and 8D , in certain embodiments, the plurality of tissues 110 includes a first tissue 130, a second tissue 132, and a third tissue 134. . The first right connecting portion 142a connects the first tissue 130 to the second tissue 132 on the right side 215 of the stack 213. The first tissue 130 is connected to the second tissue 132 only at the right side 215 of the stack 213 . Additionally, the second right connecting portion 142b connects the second tissue 132 to the third tissue 134 on the right side 215 of the stack 213. The second tissue 132 is connected to the third tissue 134 only at the right side 215 of the stack 213.

Of course, it is not necessarily the case that the connections 142, 152 alternate on sides 215, 217 or are always aligned on the same side 215, 217. For example, in further embodiments, most of the connections 142 and 152 may be located on one side 215 and 217 of the stack 213. In a more specific embodiment, more than 60% of the connections 142, 152 in the stack 213 may be disposed on one side 215, 217. In another embodiment, more than 75%, more than 85%, or more than 95% of the connections 142, 152 in stack 213 may be located on one side 215, 217, but still have ) has fewer than all of the connections (142, 152) arranged on the same side (215, 217). In either of these embodiments, a corresponding percentage of connections 142, 152 may be disposed on the left side 217 of stack 213. Additionally, in any of these embodiments, the connections 142, 152 may follow a more complex pattern than simply alternating, or in further embodiments the connections 142, 152 may be located along the sides of the stack 213 ( 215, 217), it is not necessary to follow any prescribed pattern.

In certain embodiments, such as those representatively shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 8C and 8D, most of the tissue-tissue connection in the stack of tissues 213 is formed integrally with the tissue. For example, the connecting portions 142 and 152 may each include three bridging strips 192. The bridging strips 192a, 192b, and 192c collectively define the right connecting portion 142, and the bridging strips 192d, 192e, and 192f collectively define the left connecting portion 152. The number of crosslinking strips may vary depending on the dispensing mechanism required by the tissues involved and the particular arrangement and configuration of the dispenser - and, in certain embodiments, the dispenser. In certain embodiments, each connection 142, 152 includes 2 to 10, more particularly 3 to 8 bridging strips. Preferably, in certain embodiments, each crosslinking strip has a transverse width of 1 to 5 mm, more preferably each crosslinking strip has a transverse width of 1.5 to 3 mm. In other embodiments, the tissue-tissue connection in the laminate is not formed integrally with the tissue. For example, the connections 142 and 152 may be achieved through energy coupling. Examples of suitable energy bonding included ultrasonic bonding, thermal bonding, or pressure bonding. Bonding can also be achieved through a bonding material such as an adhesive.

The laminate has a width 113 measured in the transverse direction 222. The right connection part 142 has an effective width 243 extending in the horizontal direction 222, and the left connection part 152 has an effective width 253 extending in the horizontal direction 222. The “effective width” is the transverse distance between the two furthest connecting points connecting adjacent running tissues in the stack within a single side 215, 217 of the stack 213. Therefore, in any case, the effective width of the connection portion cannot be greater than half of the horizontal width 113 of the laminate. Preferably, the effective width of the connection is significantly less than half the transverse width of the laminate. For example, in certain embodiments, referring to Figure 7, the right joint effective width 243 and the left joint effective width 253 are each at most 10% of the stack transverse width 113. In another example, referring to FIG. 7 , the first right connection portion effective width 243a and the second right connection portion effective width 243b are each at most 10% of the transverse width 213 of the laminate.

In certain embodiments, as representatively shown in FIGS. 6 and 8C, the entirety of each right connection portion 142 of stack 213 is positioned at a right end of the stack relative to the longitudinal centerline 221 of stack 213. Closer to 214 , the entirety of each left connection portion 152 of stack 213 is closer to the left end of the stack 216 than to the longitudinal centerline 221 of stack 213 . In other embodiments, as representatively shown in FIGS. 7 and 8D, the entirety of each connection portion of the stack 213 is positioned at a angle greater than the longitudinal centerline 221 of the stack—e.g., the right end of the stack 214. ) such as - closer to the end of a single laminate. As can be appreciated from FIGS. 6-8D, each connection 142, 152 is a connection (which may include multiple crosslinking strips) disposed closest to the longitudinal centerline 221 of the stack 213. The connection portion may include an inner edge that is an edge of (142, 152).

It has been discovered that certain features regarding the stack 213, housing 14, and orifice 27 of the tissue must be combined to achieve the lowest amount of failure and the most desirable dispensing experience. For example, FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of one example embodiment of a housing 14 including the stack 213 of FIG. 2 or 4 as shown along line X-X, with the stack 213 The general preferred position of the orifice 27 relative to and the specific position of the second side edge 83 of the orifice 27 relative to the connection 142 of the laminate 213 are described in greater detail. Although only connection 142 is shown in FIG. 9, it should be understood that additional embodiments may include both connection 142 and connection 152.

To achieve the most desirable dispensing experience, the connections 142 and/or 152 are primarily located within the stack 213 with a distance 245 from the edge of the orifice 27 located closest to the connections 142, 152. It turned out that it had to be. More specifically, the specific joint distribution distance 245 determined from the inner edge of the joint indicated at position 244 in FIG. 9 and the edge of the orifice 27 located closest to the connector 142, 152 indicated at position 242. It has been found that guaranteeing a portion helps ensure the most desirable distribution experience.

In certain embodiments, the connection distribution distance 245 should be greater than or equal to 30 mm and less than or equal to 50 mm, or greater than or equal to 35 mm and less than or equal to 45 mm. Of course, it is not necessary for every single connection 142, 152 to fall within this particular connection distribution distance 245. Accordingly, in some embodiments, it may be desirable for more than 60%, or more than 75%, or more than 90% of the connections 142, 152 to be located within the connection distribution distance 245 specified above. In an even more specific embodiment, it is most preferred for these connections 142 , 152 to have the described connection distribution distance 245 between the connections 142 , 152 , wherein the second side edge 83 of the orifice 27 ) was found to have a relatively flat shape as described herein. For example, as described above, the experiment was such that the orifice second side edge 83 was rotated so that the orifice first side edge 81 was positioned closest to the connection 142. When the orifice 27 and assembly 30 are arranged in the orientation shown in Figure 2 with a flat shape, a lower failure rate is shown, and the distribution distance is within the range described above.

To ensure that the joint distribution distance 245 is maintained during use, the dimensions of orifice 27, stack 213, and housing 14 can be configured together in a desirable manner. FIG. 10 shows a cross-section of one exemplary embodiment of the laminate 213 of the product 22 of FIG. 2 or FIG. 4 taken along line X-X showing the dimensions of the laminate 213 in relation to the housing 14. It shows.

For example, distribution experience has shown that best performance is achieved when the joint distribution distance 245 is greater than 30 mm and less than 50 mm. To ensure that this joint distribution distance 245 is maintained, the orifice width dimension 87 must be at least 20 mm and no more than 40 mm, and the laminate transverse width dimension 113 is defined by the distance 257 between the housings. It must be 15 mm or less smaller than the horizontal width of the laminate area in (14). In further embodiments, the stack transverse width dimension 113 should be no more than 10 mm less than the stack area transverse width 257. According to a further embodiment, the laminate transverse width dimension 113 should be at least 5 mm less than the laminate area transverse width 257 to allow for manufacturing and processing of the laminate 213 and housing 14.

The stack area of housing 14 is the portion of housing 14 where stack 213 resides and the portion of housing 14 where stack 213 can move within housing 14 . For example, the housing 14 may define an interior space that is larger than the stack 213 . However, a portion of the housing 14 may be narrowed closer to the transverse side ends (eg, along the side portions 77a and 77b relative to the transverse ends 79a and 79b). When stack 213 slides in the transverse direction 222 within housing 14, stack 213 will encounter narrow portions of housing 14 proximate transverse ends 79a, 79b, and Further movement in direction 222 will be prevented. If this 'gap' between the stack transverse width 213 of the housing 14 and the stack area transverse width 257 is too large, for example exceeding 10 mm, then the stack 213 will have a connection distribution distance. (245) can be moved out of the desired range. This distance 257 can be determined for stack 213 without any of the products 22 dispensed/separated from stack 213 .

Materials suitable for the tissues of the present invention are well known to those skilled in the art. Tissues, such as pre-wet tissues, may be made from combinations of these, for example, meltblown, coform, air-laid, bonded-carded or hydroentangled materials, high wet strength tissues, or laminated combinations thereof. You can. Tissues may include synthetic or natural fibers or combinations thereof. Tissues suitable for use with the present invention may contain a liquid, which may be any solution that can be absorbed into the tissue and render the tissue a “wet wipe.” The liquid contained within the wipes may include any suitable ingredients that provide the desired cleaning properties. For example, ingredients may include water, emollients, surfactants, preservatives, chelating agents, pH buffering agents, fragrances, or combinations thereof. Liquids may also include lotions, ointments, and/or medications. The amount of liquid contained within each wet wipe can vary depending on the type of material used to provide the wet wipe, the type of liquid used, the type of container used to store the stack of wet wipes, and the desired end use of the wet tissue. . Typically, each wet tissue may contain from about 150 to about 600 percent, preferably from about 200 to about 400 percent, liquid by weight, based on the dry weight of the tissue, for improved wiping. Examples of tissue substrates suitable for use with the present invention include those described in U.S. Pat. 5,508,102 A, U.S. 7,585,797 B2, and U.S. Includes 8,257,553 B2.

All documents cited in the detailed description are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference; Citing any literature should not be construed as an admission that this is prior art for the present invention. To the extent that any meaning or definition of a term within this specification is inconsistent with any meaning or definition of a term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to a term within this specification will apply.

Although specific embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the present invention.

Examples:

Example 1: A flexible pouch for storing and dispensing a plurality of sheets of a product has a bottom portion, a side portion adjacent to the bottom portion, each side portion adjacent to an adjacent side portion and the side portion extending away from the bottom portion, the side portion comprising: is also adjacent to the upper end, the upper end overlying the lower end and generally parallel to the lower end, wherein the plurality of product sheets are positioned within the pouch, wherein the pouch has a pouch transverse dimension extending along a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction. The pouch has a longitudinal dimension extending along the pouch, the transverse dimension of the pouch being greater than the longitudinal dimension of the pouch, and disposed in a folded stacked state within the pouch, extending longitudinally and having a transverse right end and a transverse left end of the stack. A plurality of sheets of product collectively defining a stack having a stack transverse right end and a stack transverse left end with a stack longitudinal centerline positioned midway between the ends, the stack comprising: Further defining a right side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate and a left side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse left end of the laminate, each sheet having a connection portion. connected to at least one other sheet of the stack through, and most of the connecting portions connecting successive tissues are disposed entirely on only one of the right side of the stack and the left side of the stack, and connect successive tissues to the right side of the stack and the left side of the stack. Most of the connecting portions that connect only one of the entire lower portion are disposed on the right side of the laminate; and a dispensing orifice in the upper portion, the dispensing orifice having: an orifice width dimension extending in the transverse dimension between an orifice first side edge and an orifice second side edge, the orifice first side edge and The orifice second side edges each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge and have an orifice length dimension extending in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, wherein the orifice length dimension is the longest dimension of the dispensing orifice. wherein the orifice second side edge is disposed closer to the transverse right end of the laminate than the orifice first side edge, and a portion of the orifice second side edge disposed closest to the transverse right end of the laminate. is arranged 30 mm to 50 mm from most of the connections arranged on the right side of the laminate.

Example 2: The flexible pouch according to Example 1, wherein the portion of the orifice second side edge disposed closest to the transverse right end of the laminate is disposed 35 mm to 45 mm from the connection portion disposed on the right side of the laminate. .

Example 3: The flexible material of any one of Examples 1 and 2, wherein the laminate has a transverse width extending from 100 mm to 300 mm between the transverse left end of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate. pouch.

Example 4: The flexible pouch according to Example 3, wherein the flexible pouch has a transverse width of the laminate region extending in the transverse direction, and the transverse width of the laminate is 10 mm or less less than the transverse width of the laminate region. Sex pouch.

Example 5: The flexible pouch according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the orifice width dimension is 20 mm to 40 mm.

Example 6: The flexible pouch of any of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the orifice width dimension includes the largest dimension of the orifice in the transverse direction.

Example 7: The flexible pouch of any of Examples 1-5, wherein the orifice width dimension is defined at the midpoint between the orifice top edge and the orifice bottom edge.

Example 8: The flexible fabric of any of Examples 1 to 7, wherein more than 80% of the connections connecting the continuous tissues as a whole only to one of the right side of the stack and the left side of the stack are disposed on the right side of the stack. Sex pouch.

Example 9: The flexible pouch according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein each connecting portion connecting continuous tissues as a whole only to one of the right side of the stack and the left side of the stack is disposed on the right side of the stack.

Example 10: The method of any of Examples 1-9, further comprising a flange connected to the housing, wherein the flange defines an aperture and includes an interior wall surrounding the orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge The transverse distance between the longitudinal midpoint of the flange and the inner wall of the flange is less than 10 mm.

Example 11: The method of any of Examples 1-9, further comprising a flange connected to the housing, wherein the flange defines an aperture and includes an interior wall surrounding the orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge The transverse distance between the longitudinal midpoint of the flange and the inner wall of the flange is less than 5 mm.

Example 12: The method of any of Examples 1-9, further comprising a flange connected to the housing, wherein the flange defines an aperture and includes an interior wall surrounding the orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge The transverse distance between the longitudinal midpoint of the flange and the inner wall of the flange is less than 3 mm.

Example 13: A flexible pouch for storing and dispensing a plurality of sheets of a product has a bottom portion, wherein a side portion is adjacent to the bottom portion and each side portion is adjacent to an adjacent side portion and the side portion extends away from the bottom portion, the side portion comprising: is also adjacent to the upper end, the upper end overlying the lower end and generally parallel to the lower end, wherein the plurality of product sheets are positioned within the pouch, wherein the pouch has a pouch transverse dimension extending along a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction. The pouch has a longitudinal dimension extending along the pouch, the transverse dimension of the pouch being greater than the longitudinal dimension of the pouch, and disposed in a folded stacked state within the pouch, extending longitudinally and having a transverse right end and a transverse left end of the stack. a plurality of sheets of product collectively defining a stack having a stack transverse right end and a stack transverse left end with a stack longitudinal centerline located midway between the ends, the stack comprising: The body further defines a right side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate and a left side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse left end of the laminate, each sheet connected to at least one other sheet of the stack via a connector, the majority of the connector connecting successive tissues being disposed entirely on only one of the right and left sides of the stack, and connecting the successive tissues to the right and left sides of the stack. The majority of the joints connecting entirely on only one of the left sides of the sieve may include a dispensing orifice in the lower portion and the upper portion disposed on the right side of the stack, the dispensing orifices being: from the orifice first side edge to the orifice second side an orifice width dimension extending transversely to an edge, wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge, and wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge. At least one of the side edges includes a convex shape; an orifice length dimension extending along the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, wherein the orifice length dimension defines the longest dimension of the dispensing orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge is further than the orifice first side edge. disposed closer to the transverse right end of the laminate, and a portion of the second side edge of the orifice disposed closest to the transverse right end of the laminate is disposed 30 mm to 50 mm from the connection portion disposed on the right side of the laminate. .

Example 14: The flexible pouch of Example 13, wherein the portion of the orifice second side edge disposed closest to the transverse right end of the laminate is disposed 35 mm to 45 mm from the connection portion disposed on the right side of the laminate. .

Example 15: The flexible pouch of any of Examples 13 and 14, wherein the orifice first side edge comprises a convex shape.

Example 16: The flexible pouch of any of Examples 13-15, wherein both the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge comprise a convex shape.

Example 17: The flexible pouch of any of Examples 13-16, wherein no portion of the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge comprise a concave shape.

Example 18: The method of any of Examples 13-17, wherein the orifice is positioned at any point on the orifice top edge or the orifice second side edge that is longitudinally farther than 10% of the orifice length dimension from the orifice bottom edge. A protruding line tangent to the orifice second side edge does not form an angle greater than 20 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction.

Example 19: The method of any of Examples 13-18, wherein the orifice top edge or any point on the orifice second side edge that is longitudinally farther than 20% of the orifice length dimension from the orifice bottom edge A protruding line tangent to the orifice second side edge does not form an angle greater than 20 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction.

Example 20: The method of any of Examples 13-18, wherein the orifice top edge or any point on the orifice second side edge is longitudinally farther than 10% of the orifice length dimension from the orifice bottom edge. A protruding line tangent to the orifice second side edge does not form an angle greater than 10 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction.

Example 21: The method of any of Examples 13-18, wherein the orifice is positioned at any point on the orifice top edge or the orifice second side edge that is longitudinally farther than 20% of the orifice length dimension from the orifice bottom edge. A protruding line tangent to the orifice second side edge does not form an angle greater than 10 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction.

Example 22: The method of any of Examples 13-21, wherein the orifice first at a point on the orifice top edge or a first side edge of the orifice that is longitudinally more than 10% of the orifice length dimension from the orifice bottom edge. 1 A flexible pouch, wherein at least one protruding line abutting the side edge forms an angle greater than 20 degrees.

Example 23: The method of any of Examples 13-22, wherein the orifice first at a point on the orifice top edge or a first side edge of the orifice that is longitudinally more than 10% of the orifice length dimension from the orifice bottom edge. 1 A flexible pouch, wherein at least one protruding line abutting the side edge forms an angle greater than 45 degrees.

Example 24: The flexible pouch of any of Examples 13-23, wherein greater than 90% of the perimeter of the orifice second side edge forms an angle greater than 0 degrees relative to the longitudinal direction.

Example 25: The flexible pouch of any of Examples 13-24, wherein greater than 90% of the perimeter of the orifice second side edge forms an angle greater than 2 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction.

Example 26: The flexible pouch of any of Examples 13-25, wherein at least 80% of the joints entirely connecting continuous tissues only on one of the right side of the stack and the left side of the stack are disposed on the right side of the stack.

Example 27: The flexible pouch according to any one of Examples 13 to 26, wherein each connecting portion that entirely connects continuous tissues only on one of the right side and the left side of the layer is disposed on the right side of the layer.

Embodiment 28: The method of any of Embodiments 13-27, further comprising a flange coupled to the housing, wherein the flange defines an aperture and includes an interior wall surrounding the orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge The transverse distance between the longitudinal midpoint of and the inner wall of the flange is less than 3 mm.

Example 29: The method of any of Examples 13-27, further comprising a flange coupled to the housing, wherein the flange defines an aperture and includes an interior wall surrounding the orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge The transverse distance between the longitudinal midpoint of the flange and the inner wall of the flange is less than 10 mm.

Embodiment 30: The method of any of embodiments 13-27, further comprising a flange connected to the housing, wherein the flange defines an aperture and includes an interior wall surrounding the orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge A flexible pouch, wherein the transverse distance between the longitudinal midpoint and the inner wall of the flange is less than 5 mm.

Embodiment 31: The method of any of embodiments 13-27, further comprising a flange connected to the housing, wherein the flange defines an aperture and includes an interior wall surrounding the orifice, wherein the orifice second side edge The transverse distance between the longitudinal midpoint of the flange and the inner wall of the flange is less than 3 mm.

Example 32: A flexible pouch for storing and dispensing a plurality of sheets of a product has a bottom portion, wherein a side portion is adjacent to the bottom portion and each side portion is adjacent to an adjacent side portion and the side portion extends away from the bottom portion, the side portion comprising: is also adjacent to the upper end, the upper end overlying the lower end and generally parallel to the lower end, wherein the plurality of product sheets are positioned within the pouch, the pouch having a pouch transverse dimension extending along a transverse direction and a longitudinal direction. The pouch has a longitudinal dimension extending along the pouch, the transverse dimension of the pouch being greater than the longitudinal dimension of the pouch, and disposed in a folded stacked state within the pouch, extending longitudinally and having a transverse right end and a transverse left end of the stack. A laminate comprising a plurality of sheets of product collectively defining a laminate having a laminate transverse right end and a laminate transverse left end with a laminate longitudinal centerline located midway between the ends, the laminate comprising: The body further defines a right side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate and a left side of the laminate between the longitudinal center line of the laminate and the transverse left end of the laminate, each sheet connected to at least one other sheet of the stack via a connector, the majority of the connector connecting successive tissues being disposed entirely on only one of the right and left sides of the stack, and connecting the successive tissues to the right and left sides of the stack. The majority of the joints connecting entirely on only one of the left sides of the sieve may include a dispensing orifice in the lower portion and the upper portion disposed on the right side of the stack, the dispensing orifices being: from the orifice first side edge to the orifice second side an orifice width dimension extending transversely to an edge, wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge, and wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge. At least one of the side edges includes a convex shape; an orifice length dimension extending in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, the orifice length dimension defining the longest dimension of the dispensing orifice, a flange connected to the pouch and disposed about the orifice, and a lid. A lid assembly may include a lid coupled to the flange via a hinge that rotates from a closed position to an open position, the flange comprising an interior wall defining an aperture and extending from a second side edge of the orifice in a transverse direction. The distance between the longitudinal midpoint and the inner wall of the flange is less than 10 mm.

Example 33: The flexible pouch of Example 32, wherein the transverse distance between the longitudinal midpoint of the second side edge of the orifice and the inner wall of the flange is less than 5 mm.

Example 34: The method of any of Examples 32 and 33, wherein the orifice second side edge is disposed closer to the transverse right end of the stack than the orifice first side edge, and is disposed closer to the transverse right end of the stack than the orifice first side edge. A portion of the second side edge of the orifice most closely disposed is disposed 30 mm to 50 mm from the connection portion disposed on the right side of the laminate.

Example 35: The flexible pouch of any of Examples 32-34, wherein both the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge comprise a convex shape.

Claims (25)

A flexible pouch for storing and distributing a plurality of product sheets, the pouch comprising:
A lower portion, wherein each side portion is adjacent to the lower portion and each side portion is adjacent to an adjacent side portion and the side portion extends away from the lower portion, and the side portion is also adjacent to the upper portion and the upper portion overlies the lower portion and is generally parallel to the lower portion. and the plurality of product sheets are located in the pouch;
the pouch has a pouch transverse dimension extending along a transverse direction and a pouch longitudinal dimension extending along a longitudinal direction, wherein the pouch transverse dimension is greater than the pouch longitudinal dimension;
disposed in a folded, stacked state within the pouch, extending longitudinally and having a longitudinal centerline of the stack located midway between the transverse right end and the transverse left end of the stack; A plurality of sheets of product collectively defining a laminate having a directional left end, the laminate comprising a right side of the laminate and a length of the laminate between a longitudinal centerline of the laminate and a transverse right end of the laminate. further defining the left side of the stack between the directional centerline and the transverse left end of the stack, wherein each sheet is connected to at least one other sheet of the stack through a connector, wherein a majority of the connector connecting successive tissues is , the lower portion disposed entirely on one of the right side of the stack and the left side of the stack, and the majority of the connecting portions that connect successive tissues entirely on only one of the right side and the left side of the stack are disposed on the right side of the stack; and
comprising a dispensing orifice in the upper portion, wherein the dispensing orifice:
an orifice width dimension extending in said transverse dimension between an orifice first side edge and an orifice second side edge, wherein said orifice first side edge and said orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge; , the orifice width dimension; and
an orifice length dimension extending in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, the orifice length dimension defining the longest dimension of the dispensing orifice,
Here, the orifice second side edge is disposed closer to the transverse right end of the laminate than the orifice first side edge, and a portion of the orifice second side edge disposed closest to the transverse right end of the laminate is, A flexible pouch disposed 30 mm to 50 mm from the majority of the connections disposed on the right side of the laminate. The flexible pouch according to claim 1, wherein the portion of the orifice second side edge disposed closest to the transverse right end of the laminate is disposed 35 mm to 45 mm from the connection portion disposed on the right side of the laminate. The flexible pouch according to claim 1, wherein the laminate has a transverse width extending between the transverse left end of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate of 100 mm to 300 mm. The flexible pouch according to claim 3, wherein the flexible pouch has a transverse width of the laminate region extending in the transverse direction, and the transverse width of the laminate region is 10 mm or less smaller than the transverse width of the laminate region. The flexible pouch according to claim 1, wherein the orifice width dimension is 20 mm to 40 mm. The flexible pouch of claim 1, wherein the orifice width dimension includes the largest dimension of the orifice in the transverse direction. The flexible pouch of claim 1, wherein more than 80% of the joints entirely connecting continuous tissues on only one of the right side of the stack and the left side of the stack are disposed on the right side of the stack. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising a flange coupled to the housing, the flange defining an aperture and including an interior wall surrounding the orifice, the longitudinal midpoint of the orifice second side edge and the flange A flexible pouch, wherein the transverse distance between the inner walls is less than 10 mm. 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising a flange coupled to the housing, the flange defining an aperture and including an interior wall surrounding the orifice, the longitudinal midpoint of the orifice second side edge and the flange A flexible pouch, wherein the transverse distance between the inner walls is less than 5 mm. A flexible pouch for storing and distributing a plurality of product sheets, the pouch comprising:
A lower portion, wherein each side portion is adjacent to the lower portion and each side portion is adjacent to an adjacent side portion and the side portion extends away from the lower portion, and the side portion is also adjacent to the upper portion and the upper portion overlies the lower portion and is generally parallel to the lower portion. and the plurality of product sheets are located in the pouch;
the pouch has a pouch transverse dimension extending along a transverse direction and a pouch longitudinal dimension extending along a longitudinal direction, wherein the pouch transverse dimension is greater than the pouch longitudinal dimension;
disposed in a folded, stacked state within the pouch, extending longitudinally and having a longitudinal centerline of the stack located midway between the transverse right end and the transverse left end of the stack; A plurality of sheets of product collectively defining a laminate having a directional left end, the laminate comprising a right side of the laminate and a length of the laminate between the longitudinal centerline of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate. further defining the left side of the stack between the directional centerline and the transverse left end of the stack, wherein each sheet is connected to at least one other sheet of the stack through a connector, wherein a majority of the connector connecting successive tissues is , the lower portion disposed entirely on only one of the right side of the stack and the left side of the stack, and the majority of the connecting portions that connect successive tissues entirely on only one of the right side and the left side of the stack are disposed on the right side of the stack; and
comprising a dispensing orifice in the upper portion, wherein the dispensing orifice:
An orifice width dimension extending transversely from an orifice first side edge to an orifice second side edge, wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge, and an orifice width dimension wherein at least one of a first side edge and a second side edge of the orifice comprises a convex shape; and
an orifice length dimension extending along the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, wherein the orifice length dimension defines the longest dimension of the dispensing orifice,
Here, the orifice second side edge is disposed closer to the transverse right end of the laminate than the orifice first side edge, and a portion of the orifice second side edge disposed closest to the transverse right end of the laminate is the A flexible pouch disposed 30 mm to 50 mm from a connection portion disposed on the right side of the laminate. 11. The flexible pouch of claim 10, wherein the orifice first side edge comprises a convex shape. 11. The flexible pouch of claim 10, wherein both the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge comprise a convex shape. 11. The flexible pouch of claim 10, wherein no portion of the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge comprise a concave shape. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein a projecting line tangent to the orifice second side edge at the orifice top edge or at any point on the orifice second side edge that is longitudinally farther than 10% of the orifice length dimension from the orifice bottom edge. A flexible pouch that does not form an angle greater than 20 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein a projecting line tangent to the orifice second side edge at the orifice top edge or at any point on the orifice second side edge farther than 20% of the orifice length dimension longitudinally from the orifice bottom edge. A flexible pouch that does not form an angle greater than 20 degrees with respect to the longitudinal direction. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one protrusion abuts the orifice first side edge at the orifice top edge or a point on the orifice first side edge longer than 10% of the orifice length dimension longitudinally from the orifice bottom edge. A flexible pouch, wherein the lines form an angle greater than 20 degrees. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one protrusion abuts the orifice first side edge at the orifice top edge or a point on the orifice first side edge longer than 10% of the orifice length dimension longitudinally from the orifice bottom edge. A flexible pouch, wherein the lines form an angle exceeding 45 degrees. The flexible pouch according to claim 10, wherein each connecting portion that entirely connects continuous tissues on only one of the right side and the left side of the layer is disposed on the right side of the layer. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising a flange coupled to the housing, the flange defining an aperture and including an interior wall surrounding the orifice, the longitudinal midpoint of the orifice second side edge and the flange A flexible pouch, wherein the transverse distance between the inner walls is less than 10 mm. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising a flange coupled to the housing, the flange defining an aperture and including an interior wall surrounding the orifice, the longitudinal midpoint of the orifice second side edge and the flange A flexible pouch, wherein the transverse distance between the inner walls is less than 5 mm. 11. The method of claim 10, further comprising a flange coupled to the housing, the flange defining an aperture and including an interior wall surrounding the orifice, the longitudinal midpoint of the orifice second side edge and the flange A flexible pouch, wherein the transverse distance between the inner walls is less than 3 mm. A flexible pouch for storing and distributing a plurality of product sheets, the pouch comprising:
A bottom portion, wherein each side portion is adjacent to the bottom portion and each side portion is adjacent to the adjacent side portion and the side portion extends away from the bottom portion, and the side portion is also adjacent to the top portion and the top portion overlies the bottom portion and is generally parallel to the bottom portion. and the plurality of product sheets are located in the pouch;
the pouch has a pouch transverse dimension extending along a transverse direction and a pouch longitudinal dimension extending along a longitudinal direction, wherein the pouch transverse dimension is greater than the pouch longitudinal dimension;
disposed in a folded, stacked state within the pouch, with a longitudinal centerline of the stack extending longitudinally and positioned midway between the transverse right end and the transverse left end of the stack; A plurality of sheets of product collectively defining a laminate having a directional left end, the laminate comprising a right side of the laminate and a length of the laminate between the longitudinal centerline of the laminate and the transverse right end of the laminate. further defining the left side of the stack between the directional centerline and the transverse left end of the stack, wherein each sheet is connected to at least one other sheet of the stack through a connector, wherein a majority of the connector connecting successive tissues is , the lower portion disposed entirely on only one of the right side of the stack and the left side of the stack, and the majority of the connecting portions that connect successive tissues entirely on only one of the right side and the left side of the stack are disposed on the right side of the stack;
A dispensing orifice within the upper portion, the dispensing orifice comprising:
An orifice width dimension extending transversely from an orifice first side edge to an orifice second side edge, wherein the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge each extend from an orifice top edge to an orifice bottom edge, and an orifice width dimension wherein at least one of a first side edge and a second side edge of the orifice comprises a convex shape;
the dispensing orifice having an orifice length dimension extending in the longitudinal direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, the orifice length dimension defining a longest dimension of the dispensing orifice; and
a lid assembly comprising a flange connected to the pouch and disposed about the orifice, and a lid connected to the flange via a hinge that rotates the lid from a closed position to an open position;
wherein the flange includes an inner wall defining an aperture and the distance between the longitudinal midpoint of the orifice second side edge in the transverse direction and the inner wall of the flange is less than 10 mm. 23. The flexible pouch of claim 22, wherein the distance between the longitudinal midpoint of the second side edge of the orifice in the transverse direction and the inner wall of the flange is less than 5 mm. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the orifice second side edge is disposed closer to the transverse right end of the stack than the orifice first side edge, and the orifice second side disposed closest to the transverse right end of the stack. A flexible pouch, wherein a portion of the edge is disposed 30 mm to 50 mm from the connection portion disposed on the right side of the laminate. 23. The flexible pouch of claim 22, wherein both the orifice first side edge and the orifice second side edge comprise a convex shape.