MXPA99007879A - Equipment and process for the manufacture of sujec tape - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fastener belt for transporting profile fasteners to be mounted in an opening in a sealable pouch having opposite sides, wherein the fastener tape comprises: an intermediate layer having opposite longitudinal edges, an elongated non-sealable barrier essentially coextensive longitudinally with the intermediate layer and laterally separated from the edges, and a removable interlacing profile fastener over the intermediate layer, where the profile fastener is essentially longitudinally coextensive with the intermediate layer and is laterally separated from the edges and the barrier does not seal.

Description

EQUIPMENT AND PROCESS FOR THE MANUFACTURE OF CLOSURE TAPE FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to "reclosable" plastic bags (ie they have the ability to close again). This invention more particularly pertains to the manufacture of a tape having reclosable fasteners therein and adapted to be mounted in the opening of a "reclosable" bag. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The reclosable plastic bags have profile fasteners that are pressure sealed and are well known and have a variety of useful applications such as the storage of goods for the home. The recent increase in consumer demands on reclosable bags has been coupled with the demand for fasteners with higher quality profiles on these bags. To meet these demands, manufacturers must develop methods that are profitable and reliable for the production of reclosable bags that are suitable for the particular purposes of the consumer.

Consumers prefer reclosable bags in which the reclosable opening is found through the top of the bag. However, until recently, almost all reclosable plastic bags were manufactured with the reclosable opening located along a vertical side of the bag instead of being through the top of the bag. Simply, it was easier for manufacturers to use conventional equipment and processes to attach fasteners along the side of the bag instead of fixing them through the top of the bag. Recent advances in manufacturing equipment and materials have allowed some manufacturers to produce reclosable bags with reclosable openings through the top of the bag. For example, this equipment is available with AMI / Rec-Pro, Inc., in Atlanta, Georgia, E.U.A. Typically, the reclosable plastic bags currently commercially available are formed of thermoplastic, such as those of polyethylene. An opening in the plastic bag is equipped with a plastic profile holder that allows the plastic bag to be opened and resealed when the contents of the plastic bag are accessed. These profiles include a male profile and a female profile configured to intercept and form a continuous closure when aligned and pressed together. The interconnection of male and female profiles are commonly referred to in the singular sense, as a profile fastener, a rack profile, or merely a profile. There is one type of extrusion process used to extrude materials to be used on the top of a bag that is known as a zipper flange process. In this process, the profile is extruded to form flange portions extending from a profile fastener. However, there are problems in sealing the extruded profile of the flange directly to the walls of the plastic bag (referred to as the walls of the bag) due to the thickness of the flanged portions. Specifically, the profile with extruded flange has its limitations in terms of the thinness of the flanges that can be integrally extruded. The extrusion process results in an area with flanges that have a significantly greater thickness than if a similar profile type were manufactured separately and fixed to an intermediate layer manufactured separately. As an alternative for fastening profiles with a zipper flange directly to the walls of the bag, the profile is only fixed to an intermediate layer or film. The intermediate layer with a fixed profile sticks to the walls of the bag. The combination of the profile and the intermediate layer is commonly referred to as "fastening tape". The fastening tape and the walls of the bag are properly interconnected by generally known elements, such as heat sealing, where the intermediate layer is sealed to the walls of the base of the material. The use of an intermediate layer allows the use of profiles that are made of a different material than the walls of the plastic bag. These different materials may be thermally incompatible. It is desirable to produce an intermediate layer in the thinnest manner possible in order to minimize the amount of heat necessary to fix the intermediate coa to the plastic bag. The intermediate layer is fixed more effectively to a plastic bag, with a minimum amount of heat, when the intermediate layer is in its thinnest form.

The excess heat in the manufacture of "reclosable" plastic bags promulgates defects. For example, if the intermediate layer or profile comes into contact with excessive heat, the seal between the walls of the plastic bag and the intermediate layer may be damaged or the profile may be deformed. This damage can be identified by an inoperable profile, wrinkles or creases in the walls of the plastic bag, or loops on the edges of the bag near the profile. Heat sealing is even more difficult when the walls of the bag are different from polyethylene, for example polypropylene. There are many problems associated with existing equipment to form a fastener tape. For example, existing machines can not set the profile to the intermediate layer with the precision required to form a commercially acceptable seal. Simply, the registration sale required to seal the profile to the intermediate layer is not consistently maintained when the fastener tape is formed because there is no mechanism to deliver the intermediate layer with constant tension to the fastener tape manufacturing equipment. The slack in the intermediate layer as it enters and passes through the manufacturing equipment prevents the intermediate layer from being properly handled within a configuration to receive the profile. In response to the inadequacies found in manufacturing equipment for known fastener tape, it is clear that there is a need to have an apparatus and method which aligns the profile with the intermediate layer with the precision required to form a commercially acceptable fastener tape. This new apparatus allows the intermediate layer to be delivered in a consistent manner or to be configured in a particular manner in order to receive the male with the profile. What is needed is an apparatus that is capable of maintaining a constant tension in the layer and in the intermediate profile, while precisely positioning the profile in the intermediate layer, while the profile and the intermediate layer are sealed together. Brief Coverage of the Invention The present invention alleviates or solves the problems described above in the prior art by providing an improved method and apparatus for manufacturing a fastener tape that will be used in the manufacture of reclosable plastic bags. The present method and apparatus satisfies the need for an efficient and accurate method for sealing the profile to the intermediate layer when the fastener tape is formed. According to the invention, this objective is achieved by providing delivery and applicator couplings. The delivery assembly includes a plurality of rollers configured to deliver the intermediate layer to the applicator assembly. The tension of the intermediate layer between the rollers is controlled by a motorized drive roller. At least one of the pluralities of the rollers is fixed at the distal end of a pivoted arm. The proximal end of the arm is fixed to an axle which passes through the delivery assembly to a cam. While the tension of the intermediate layer in the rollers increases and decreases, the arm and the cam rotate. The rotation of the cam is detected and a signal is sent to the motorized roller to change the speed rate of the intermediate layer through the rollers. Also in the delivery assembly is a V-shaped panel member to bend the intermediate layer. The intermediate layer passes over a declined surface of the V-shaped panel member and over a vertex to define a bent line in the intermediate layer. Before the intermediate layer is bent it is received by an applicator assembly, the profile fastener is inserted into the intermediate layer bent and oriented parallel to the machine direction of the intermediate layer. In the applicator assembly there are a plurality of wheels having circumferential grooves sized to receive the profile. The wheels align the profile with the intermediate layer while the intermediate layer and the profile are directed in two pairs of opposite sealing bars to form the fastening tape. The sealing bars of each set move relative to each other from a free spaced position within a clamped and seated position. In the position held with clamp and sealant, the first set of sealing bars seals the profile towards the intermediate layer and the second set of sealing bars seal a pair of adhesive surfaces together to form a contact seal. The sealing surfaces of each of the sets of the sealing bars are offset from each other. The equipment for manufacturing the fastener tape and the fastener tape formed in accordance with the present invention has a number of advantages. An important advantage of the innovative manufacturing equipment is the ability of the apparatus to manipulate the intermediate layer in a consistent manner and align the profile with the intermediate layer to form the fastener tape. Correspondingly, one of the objectives of the present invention is to provide equipment for the manufacture of the fastener tape that overcomes the aforementioned inadequacies of the prior art manufacturing equipment. Another objective of the present invention is to provide equipment for the manufacture of the fastener tape capable of reducing the amount of defects in the resulting fastener tape. It is still another object of the present invention to provide a structurally simple and inexpensive device for manufacturing a fastener tape for use in the assembly of "resealable" plastic bags. It is still another object of the present invention to continuously provide an intermediate layer and a profile with balanced voltages to seal with each other to achieve a finished fastener tape that is straight.

In addition, another object of the present invention is to more precisely control the fastening of the profile fastener to the intermediate layer. Still another object of the present invention is to reactivate a heat reactivated adhesive contact seal in a manufacturing operation of the fastener tape. The foregoing has broadly pointed out some of the most pertinent objects and characteristics of the present invention. These should be construed as illustrative only of some of the most prominent features and applications of the projected invention. Many other beneficial results can be obtained by applying the disclosed invention in a different manner or by modifying the disclosed embodiments. Correspondingly, other objects and a broader understanding of the invention can be obtained by referring to the detailed description of the preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in addition to the scope of the invention defined by the claims. For a clearer understanding of the nature and objectives of the present invention, reference should be made to the following detailed description in relation to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of the equipment for manufacturing the fastener tape of the present invention. Figure 2 is a front perspective view of a continuous roll of an intermediate layer. Figure 3 is a side front view of a plurality of dancer rollers, a pivoting arm and a drive roller for balancing the tension of the intermediate layer in Figure 2 while the intermediate layer is unwound. Figure 4 is a side rear view of Figure 3 illustrating a roll of the profile fastener that is dispensed and a cam opposite the pivot arm and the rollers in Figure 3. Figure 5 is a side front view of a fastener of profile that is unrolled and passes over the top of the profile assembly without rolling. Figure 6 is a top view of an unrolled profile assembly taken along line 6-6 of Figure 5.

Figure 7 illustrates the side rear view of the unrolled profile assembly shown in Figures 5 and 6. Figure 8 illustrates a generally V-shaped panel member and a guide roller for folding the intermediate layer, and a guide for placing the profile in the middle layer folded. Figure 9 illustrates an embodiment of the applicator assembly of the present invention having sealing bars, wheels and a pair of driving bands for sealing the profile to the intermediate layer. Figure 10 illustrates a modification of the applicator assembly of Figure 9 having an additional set of sealing bars and wheels. Figure 11 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a wheel capable of moving in the vertical direction. Figure 12 is a side view of the wheels of Figures 9-11. Figures 13 and 14 are perspective front views of the sealing bars having different sealing surfaces. Figure 15 is a partial front perspective view of the profile positioned within the fold of the intermediate layer and oriented between a pair of wheels which are displaced in some way from the profile and the intermediate layer for the purpose of illustration. Figure 16 is a side front view of one of the embodiments of the cooling blocks of the present invention. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of one of the embodiments of a fastener tape formed in accordance with the present invention. Figure 18 is a partial view of one of the embodiments of the fastener tape described in this document. Figure 19 is a perspective view of the right side of a collection assembly for collecting the fastener tape. Figure 20 is a diagram of one of the embodiments of the present invention for forming the fastener tape described in this document. Figure 21 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a "reclosable" plastic bag having the fastener tape of Figure 17.

Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a modification of the embodiment of a "reclosable" bag shown in Figure 21. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DETAILED EMBODIMENT With reference now to the drawings in which similar numbers indicate similar elements Through several views, Figure 1 depicts an embodiment of equipment for the manufacture of a fastener tape generally designated with the number 30 comprising a delivery assembly 32, an applicator assembly 34, a tape gathering assembly. 36 and an unrolled profile assembly 38. The delivery assembly 32 is illustrated in greater detail in Figures 3 and 4 and the unrolled profile assembly 38 is illustrated in greater detail in Figures 5-7. Figure 8 illustrates the characteristics of the delivery assembly 32 and the transition to the applicator assembly 34.

The applicator assembly 34 is illustrated in greater detail in Figures 9-10. Figure 10 is a modification of Figure 9. Figures 11-16 illustrate features of the applicator assembly 34. Figures 2, 17 and 18 are detailed illustrations of the fastener tape 40 and the intermediate layer 42. Figure 19 is an illustration detail of the tape collection assembly 36. Figure 20 is a general diagram of the process of the present invention and Figures 21 and 22 are cross-sectional views of the exemplified embodiments of a plastic bag having a fastener tape 40 of the present invention. For the fastener tape 40 to be manufactured in an efficient and economical manner, the delivery assembly 32 and the assembly 34 must be in close proximity to each other and oriented in a manner to be easily configured in a continuous strip of the intermediate layer 42 for receiving a continuous strip of the interclose fastener of the zipper profile 44. As best shown in Figure 1, the assemblies 32 and 34 should be oriented substantially at a right angle to each other to facilitate bending of the intermediate layer (Fig. 8). ). The manner in which the intermediate layer 42 is bent is described in more detail below. The delivery assembly 32 provides a bent intermediate layer 42 with a balanced tension towards the applicator assembly 34. The intermediate layer 42 then progresses continuously through the applicator assembly 34. The assembly of the uncoiled profile 38 must then be oriented substantially in a right angle to the delivery assembly 32 as best shown in Figure 1. The unrolled profile assembly 38 provides the profile holder 44 with a balanced tension towards the applicator assembly 34 as described below in greater detail. In general, the continuous profile strip 44 is provided toward the applicator assembly 34 by inserting the profile 44 into the fold of the intermediate layer 42. The applicator assembly 34 seals the profile 44 toward the intermediate layer 42 to form the belt. fastener 40, which is described in greater detail below, and discharges the fastener tape 40 from the applicator assembly 34 to be collected by the tape pickup assembly 36. The picker assembly 36 is aligned with the machine in the direction of the tape fastener 40 exiting the applicator assembly 34. The fastener tape 40 is wound by the collector assembly 36 (Fig. 19). Figure 2 illustrates one of the embodiments of a roll of the intermediate layer 42 of the present invention. For the purpose of describing the present invention, the term "continuous" means an intermediate layer roll or rack fastener, when used by the manufacturing equipment 30 of the present invention, which allows the equipment to operate substantially in a manner Continues to replace an exhausted roll with another roll of an equal material without substantially disrupting operations. The intermediate layer 42 is made of any material known in the industry suitable for being fixed with the rack fastener. The intermediate layer 42 is preferably made of a very thin material, flexible, substantially flat woven about 0.008 in. (0.003 in.) thick. It is also possible to use an intermediate layer with a thickness as thin as 0.0025 in. (0.001 in.). The profile 44 is made of any material known in the industry and has a known configuration which is suitable for attaching to the intermediate layer. As shown in Figure 2, the intermediate layer 42 is comprised of longitudinal opposite edges 46 and 48, with opposite outer surfaces, and a non-sealable barrier 50 which extends together with the intermediate layer 42. The non-sealable barrier 50 is located slightly outside the center on one of the outer surfaces of the intermediate layer 42 and laterally spaced from the edges 46, 48. The intermediate layer 42 is preferably treated with a layer of food-grade printed nitro cellulose to form the non-sealable barrier. The placement of the non-sealable barrier 50 depends on where the intermediate layer 42 will be folded. The intermediate layer 42 is folded downwardly from the center of the non-sealable barrier 50 to form a fold 51 (Figures 8, 15 and 17) and the upper and lower flanges 52 and 54 respectively (Figures 8, 15, 17 and 18). It is preferable that the flanges 52 and 54 have different widths since this will be apparent when the fastener tape 40 is sealed to a "reclosable" plastic bag 58 (Figures 21 and 22). The flanges 52, 54 of different width are formed by compensating the barrier 50 in the intermediate layer 42 and folding the intermediate layer 42 towards the center of the barrier 50; instead of the center of the intermediate layer 42 by itself. The intermediate layer 42 shown in the Figure 2, further comprises a first adhesive elongate surface and a second adhesive elongate surface 60 and 62. The adhesive surfaces 60 and 62 seal the opposite sides of the "reclosable" bag by forming an elongated seal barrier releasable in the bag 58 as will be described in greater detail below. The adhesive surfaces 60, 62 are substantially extending together and are laterally spaced from the edges 46, 48 and the barrier 50. As best shown in Figure 2, the barrier 50 is substantially oriented between the adhesive surfaces 60, 62 and one of the adhesive surfaces 62 is preferably nearer in proximity to one of the edges 46 instead of what the other adhesive surface 60 is of the other edge 48. Alternatively, a single adhesive surface on one of the walls of the adhesive 48 The plastic bag can be used to form a seal barrier with the opposite wall of the plastic bag. Preferably, an adhesive such as a water-based ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA) is used to form the adhesive surfaces 60, 62. Preferably, each of the adhesive surfaces is printed on the intermediate layer 42 and has a lateral width of about to 3/8 of an inch Collectively, the adhesive surfaces 60, 62 should have an adhesion strength in the range of about 600 to 800 grams. More preferably, the adhesive surfaces 60, 62 should have an adhesion strength of approximately 700 grams. In other words, in the preferred embodiment, this should take approximately 700 grams of force to separate the seal barrier formed by the adhesive surfaces 60, 62. Figures 3 and 4 illustrate the. front and rear side views respectively, of the delivery assembly 32. The intermediate layer 42 is provided in an unwound roll 64. The roll 64 of the intermediate layer 42 is rotatably mounted at one end of the delivery assembly 32 and provides the intermediate layer towards the delivery assembly 32 with a speed of approximately 21.3 to 25.9 meters (75 to 85 feet). Preferably, the intermediate layer is delivered at 24.38 meters (80 feet) per minute. The unrolled roll is laterally adjustable relative to the direction in which the intermediate layer 42 is unwound from the roll.

The roll 64 includes an alignment mechanism having a screw adjustment which adjusts the position of the intermediate layer 42 on the delivery assembly 32. A sensor roller 66 and a roller mount with sensor 68 are mounted to the delivery assembly 32 to make contact with the outer periphery of the roll of the intermediate layer 42. The sensor roller 66 'is used to determine the amount of the intermediate layer 42 remaining in the roller when measuring the radius of the roll of the intermediate layer 42 while the intermediate layer is dispatched. The delivery assembly 32 is further comprised of a delivery system for delivering the intermediate layer 42 to the applicator assembly 34 (Figures 9 and 10). The delivery system is comprised of a motorized drive roller 72 and a plurality of dancer rollers 76, 78 and 80 which are described below. The intermediate layer 42 is fed into the motorized drive roller 72 which is fixed about the rotating shaft towards the delivery assembly 32 and onto an axially mounted roller 74 positioned adjacently to the drive roller 72. The intermediate layer 42 then proceeds through the stationary mounted dancer rollers 76, the dancer rollers 78, the guide rollers 80. The stationary mounted upper dancer rollers 76 and the guide rollers 80 are mounted axially directly towards the delivery assembly 32.

The delivery assembly 32 is further comprised of an adjustment system for balancing the tension of the intermediate layer 42 through the rollers 76, 78 and 80. The adjustment system is comprised of a pivoting arm 82. The dancing rollers lower 78 are operatively coupled to the distal end of the arm 82. The arm 82 is pivotally coupled to the delivery assembly 32 on an axle 84 and pivots between a first position and a second position in response to the tension of the intermediate layer 42 engaged by the dancer rollers 76, 78. The arm 82 is lowered to the first position and raised to the second position. The lower dancer rollers 78 are displaced from the shaft 84. As shown in Figure 4, the adjustment system is further comprised of a second arm 86 coupled with pivoting to the rear side of the delivery assembly 32 on the shaft 84. The arm 84 It is rigid with respect to the arm 82 in the front of the delivery. A weight 88 is fixed to the distal end of the arm 86 and a cam 90 is thin at the proximal end of the arm 86. The weight 88 on the arm 86 is adjusted along the length of the arm 86 to assist in the balancing of the arm. tension of the intermediate layer 42 between the first position and the second position. The cam 90 is rigid with respect to the arms 82 and 86 and rotates with the arms 82, 86. The cam 90 has a cam surface defined about the axis 84 with an eccentric portion 92 and a radius that varies continuously relative to the axis 84 between a first radius longer rx and a second radius shorter r2. The first radius and the second radius ri and r2 correspond substantially to the first portion and to the second portion of the arm 82 respectively. The tension on the intermediate layer 42 can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the speed of the motorized roller 72 in response to the movement of the cam 90. The cam 90 rotates at the same time that the arm 82 moves between the first position and the second position . A proximity sensing device 96 is fixed to the delivery assembly and directed to the eccentric portion 92 of the cam 90, which measures the distance from the cam 90. The distance from the cam 90 changes while the cam rotates about the axis 84. The longest radio on the cam 90, for example rl r at the point where the proximity sensor device is directed, the closer the cam 90 will be the proximity of the proximity sensor device 96. The proximity of the cam 90 to the sensor device 96 is used to indicate whether the motorized roller 72 must be accelerated or decelerated in order to decrease or increase the tension of the intermediate layer 42 between the rollers 76, 78. Proximity sensing devices 96 are available from Truck, Inc. of Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, and are referred to with Model Number N18-M18-LU. When too much slackness occurs between the rollers 76, 78 and consequently in the assembly of the applicator 34, the rollers 78 come down and the spleen 82 falls into the first position due to the weight 88 of the arm 86. To increase the tension, the sensing device 96 feels that the cam 90 has rotated towards ri, the arm 82 moving toward the first position, and the motorized roller 72 decreases the speed to decrease the amount dispensed from the intermediate layer 42 from the unrolled roller 64. On the other hand, for decreasing the tension, the sensor device 96 feels that the cam has rotated towards r2, indicating that the arm 82 has moved to the second position, and the motorized roller 72 accelerates to dispense more of the intermediate layer 42 from the unrolled roller 64 When the intermediate layer 42 is too tight on the rollers 76, 78, the arm 86 with the weight 88 rises. Figure 4 also illustrates an unrolled motorized roll 100 of the profile fastener 44 which is axially mounted to the unrolled profile assembly 38. Figures 5-7 better illustrate the assembly of the uncoiled profile 38. An engine 102 drives the roll without winding 100 which varies the rate of speed at which the fastener of the profile 44 is unwound from the unrolled roll 100. As shown in Figure 5, the profile 44 is unwound from the roll 100 and passes over the top of the profile assembly without winding 38 with the assistance of a pair of guide rolls 104. The guide rolls 104 are suspended by cantilever members 105 and 106 which they are best shown in Figure 4. The guide roller suspended in the cantilever 105 receives the profile holder 44 from the unrolled roll 100. The profile holder 44 then proceeds on the roller is guided 104 supported on the cantilever 106. The profile holder then proceeds towards a roller 108 supported on a pivoting arm 110 mounted on the profile assembly without winding 38 on an axle 112. The arm pivots between the first position and the second position on. response to the tension of the fastener of the profile 44 in a manner similar to that of the intermediate layer 42 in the delivery assembly 32. A second pivoting arm 114 engages the shaft 112 on the opposite side of the profile assembly 38 having the arm 110. Arms 110 and 114 are rigid with respect to each other. A weight 116 is fixed to the distal end of the arm 114 as shown in Figure 5. The weight 116 is adjusted along the length of the arm 114 to balance the tension of the fastener of the profile 44. A cam 117 engages the end next to the arm 110 as shown in Figures 6 and 7. While the arm pivots 110, a second proximity device 96, fixed to the assembly of the unrolled profile 38, measures the distance from the cam 117. While the cam rotates in response At the change of tension of the profile clamp 44 and the pivoting of the arm 110, the distance between the proximity sensor device 96 and the cam 117 changes. The motor 102 accelerates or decelerates in order to decrease or increase the tension of the fastener of the profile 44 which is delivered to the assembly of the applicator 34. Once the profile 44 leaves the roller 108, the profile 44 proceeds towards the roller 118 which redirects the profile towards the applicator assembly 34. The assembly of the unrolled profile 38 preferably provides the profile 44 towards the applicator assembly at approximately 24.38 meters (80 feet) per minute. The delivery speed of the intermediate layer 42 and the fastener of the profile 44 should be approximately the same. Figures 3 and 8 illustrate a panel member 120 having a generally V-shaped configuration defined by an upper surface 122 and the first converging edge and the second converging edge 124 and 126 respectively. The converging edges 124, 126 converge towards the apex 128 at the rear end of the V-shaped panel member 120. The V-shaped panel member 120 is adjustably mounted to the delivery assembly 32 through a frame 130. in such a way that the upper surface 122 is declined. The intermediate layer 42 passes over the upper surface 122 and the converging edges to define the fold 51 and a bent line 132 at the apex 128. While the intermediate layer 42 passes over the apex 128, the intermediate layer 42 changes the relative directions to the direction of the intermediate layer 42 on the upper surface 122. As best shown in Figure 5, the intermediate layer 42 then passes under a guide roll 140 to bend the intermediate layer 42 on itself in the fold line 132. The fold line 132 divides the middle layer, lengthwise, into two separate continuous strips generally referred to as flanges 52, 54. The guide roll 140 and the V-shaped panel member 120 are spaced apart at a fixed angular relationship. as shown best in Figure 3. The intermediate layer 42 can be offset towards one of the sides of the V-shaped panel member 120 while passing over the upper surface 122 in order to control the l width of each of the flanges. The position of the intermediate layer on the V-shaped panel member 120 is controlled by altering the roll alignment mechanism 64. For example, if the intermediate layer 42 is compensated 1.27 cm (0.5 in) on each side, one of the flanges will be 2.54 cm (1.0 in) wider from the fold line 132 than the other. In one embodiment, the lower flange is 1.90 cm (0.75 in) wider than the upper flange. Furthermore, if the intermediate layer 42 includes adhesive surfaces 60 and 62, the position of the intermediate layer 42 on the V-shaped panel member 120 is critical in the alignment and equalization of the adhesive surface 60 with the adhesive surface 62. Figure 8 also illustrates the profile 44 which is inserted between the upper flange and the lower flange 52, 54 of the intermediate layer 42. A substantially horizontal oriented flat member generally referred to as a profile insert assembly 142 is mounted to the applicator assembly 34 with a bracket. The profile insert assembly 142 has a channel 146 for receiving the profile 44. The channel 146 directs the profile 44 between the upper flange and the lower flange 52, 54. The insertion assembly of the profile 142 further includes a passage 148 for receiving the profile 44 which intersects the channel 146 preferably at a 90 degree angle. A ball bearing (not shown) is located at the point of intersection to reduce friction between the profile 44 and the intersection assembly of the profile 142. The step 148 redirects the profile 44 from the channel 146 within the machine direction of the intermediate layer 42 and places the profile 44 substantially parallel with a predetermined distance and at a predetermined distance from the fold line 132. Preferably, the profile 44 is laterally offset from the fold line 132 after leaving the passage 148 at approximately 3.17 cm (1.25 in). Figure 9 illustrates one of the embodiments of the applicator assembly 34 of the present invention. Figure '9 shows a pair of vertically opposed elongated sealing bars 152 supported on the applicator assembly 34 which is movable with respect to the other. The sealing bars are elongated portions preferably 15.24 cm (6 in.) Of ductile machined iron with a finished layer called "agnalaminate". The sealing rods 152 are heated in order to thermally seal the fastener of the profile 44 towards the intermediate layer 42. The sealing rods 152 are heated to a temperature in the range of about 260 ° C to 315 ° C (500 ° F to 600 ° C). ° F) when the profile is thermally sealed 44 towards the intermediate layer. The sealing rods 152 are movable with respect to each other from the free spaced position within a clamped and sealing position relative to the intermediate layer 42 and in between.

While in the sealing position and clamped, there is preferably a gap of approximately 0.145 cm (0.057 in) between the opposing sealing bars when heated to operating temperatures. The profile 44 is secured to the intermediate layer 42 when the sealing rods 152 are in the clamped and sealant position. The securing of the profile 44 to the intermediate layer 42 forms the fastening tape 40 (Figures 17 and 18). As shown in Figure 9, the applicator assembly 34 is further comprised of a plurality of upper and lower rotating wheels 154 and 156, respectively, supported on the applicator assembly 34. The upper wheels 154 are opposite the lower wheels 156. The wheels 154, 156 are unique in that they each include a circumferential groove 158 dimensioned to receive the profile 44 therein when the wheels 154 and 156 are pressed against the profile 44 and the intermediate layer 42. A pair of bands 160, described in more detail below, are also placed between the wheels 154, 156 and the profile 44. In this way, the wheels 154, 156 do not make real contact with the intermediate layer 42 or the profile 44.

Figures 11 and 12 illustrate one of the embodiments of wheels 154, 156 of the present invention. The lower wheels 156 are axially mounted to a generally flat member 162. The flat members 162 are mounted with fasteners 166 to the applicator assembly 34. The upper wheels 154 are movably coupled to the flat member 162 and the applicator assembly 34. As shown in Figure 11, a spring or a lever-loaded two-position handle assembly 168 is mounted to the top of the flat member 170 which extends outwardly from the applicator assembly 34. The handle assembly 168 is fixed at one end of an axis 172 which extends through member 170. The other end of shaft 172 is fixed to a flanged bearing member 174 which slides between a pair of rails 176 and is held between same. A shaft 164 of the wheel 154 is rotatably fixed to the bearing flange member 154 within the free spaced position and the position clamped and sealable respectively.

Alternatively, the lower wheels 156 may be coupled in a similar manner to the applicator assembly 34. However, if the wheels 154 can be sufficiently displaced from the intermediate layer 42 and the profile 44 through raising the wheels 154, it is preferable to mount the wheels 156 directly to their respective flat members 162. Conventional air cylinders are used 180 are used to move the sealing bars 152 between the free spaced position and the clamping position and the sealing position. The air cylinders 180 are mounted on the cylinder mounts 182. It is preferable that each of the air cylinders 180 operate outside of a separate regulator (not shown). It is also preferable that each of the pairs of air cylinders operate a pair of opposite sealing bars, collectively provided with pressure in the range of about 6.81 kg. 9.08 kg per 16.38 cm3 (15 to 20 pounds per square inch). The cylinder mount 182 is mounted directly to the applicator assembly 34. The slide plates 184 are slidably mounted to the applicator assembly 34 such that each of the air cylinders 180 can slide each of the slide plates 184 up and down in the applicator assembly 34. Sliding plates 184 are available with W.M. Berg, Inc., in East Rocka ay, New York, E.U.A. and refer to Model Number LBSD-20. A sealing bar frame 186 extends outward from each of the slidable plates 184. From each of the frames of the sealing bars 186 an assembly extends vertically. of yoke 190 for attaching the sealing bar 152 to the mount of the sealing rod 186. The yoke assembly 190 allows the sealing bar 152 to pivot in the machine direction such that an equal amount of pressure is exerted on the layer intermediate 42 along the length of the sealing rod 152. A threaded shaft 192 extends vertically from the assembly of the jute 190 passing through the mount of the sealing rod 186 and is threadably secured with an adjusting screw 194 and a nut 196 to the floating plate 200. Passing through the opposite ends of the floating plate 200 and fixed to the opposite ends of the mount of the sealing rod 186 are the guide shafts 202.

Each of the axes 202 has a compression spring 204. The floating plate 200, in conjunction with the springs 204 and the guide axes 202, force the sealing bars 152 towards the intermediate layer 42 during the operation.

Figure 10 is a modification of the applicator assembly 34 of Figure 9. As shown in Figure 10, the applicator assembly 34 may include a second set of sealing bars 152. However, the second set of sealing bars 152 may serve for the same purpose as the sealing bars 152 or for a different purpose, as described above. When they serve the same purpose, the sealing operation can be performed with a higher rate of speed. When serving a different purpose, the second set of the sealing bars 152 must have a different raised sealing surface. An applicator assembly 34, which has only a single set of sealing bars, uses the solitary set of sealing bars to seal the profile fastener 44 to the intermediate layer 42. On the other hand, a second set of sealing bars 152 can be used. to seal alternative materials, such as an adhesive to the intermediate layer. For example, there are two sets of sealing bars 152 illustrated in Figure 10. The second set of sealing bars illustrated in Figure 10 are used to seal the adhesive surface 60 to the adhesive surface 62 to form an elongated seal barrier ( Figures 17 and 18). The sealing rods 152 should have a sealing surface configured for the particular material that is intended to be sealed to the intermediate layer. The sealing surface of the second set of sealing bars 152 is offset from the sealing surface of the first set of sealing bars 152. It is necessary to misalign the sealing surfaces relative to each other because each of the sets of sealing bars 152 seal along the length of the sealing bars 152. different side distances of the intermediate layer 42. The sealing bar 152 illustrated in Figure 13 has a sealing surface 206 and the sealing bar 152 illustrated in Figure 14 has a sealing surface 208. The sealing surfaces 206, 208 extend substantially along the entire length of the sealing bars 152. The sealing surface 206 is substantially narrower in length than the sealing surface 208-. Preferably, the sealing surface 206 should have a width of approximately 0.23 cm (0.09 in). The sealing surface 208 should have a width of approximately 0.63 cm (0.25 in). The sealing surface 206 is configured to seal the profile 44 to the intermediate layer 42 and the sealing surface 208 is configured to seal the adhesive surfaces such as the adhesive surface 60 to the adhesive surface 62. The temperature of the sealing bars 152 for the surfaces Adhesives can be reduced compared to the temperature required to seal the profile to the intermediate layer. In order to seal the adhesive surfaces, the sealing plates must have a temperature in the range of 118 ° C to 149 ° C (245 ° F to 300 ° F). As best shown in Figure 8 and Figures 9 and 10, the applicator assembly 34 is further comprised of a pair of strips 160 rotating on a plurality of rollers 212. The strips 160 are preferably Teflon-coated cloth strips. As shown in any of Figures 9 or 10, a length of each of the universal strips 160 abuts each other. The intermediate layer 42, the profile 44 and the bands 16o come between the wheels 154, 156 and the sealing bars 152. The webs 160 are required to have a greater width when used in conjunction with two sets of sealing bars 152 because the first set of sealing bars 152 is often compensated from the second set of the sealing bars 152 as described above. The rollers 212 extend axially from the applicator assembly 34 and move from one another. For each of the bands 160 there is a tension arm 214 and a roller 216. The rollers 216 extend axially from the distal end of the tension arms 214. The proximal ends of the tension arms 214 are pivotally mounted to the applicator assembly 34. The tension arms 214 are spring loaded so that the tension of each of the bands is automatically maintained by the tension arms 214 while the bands wear. Figure 15 illustrates a profile 44 which is aligned between the upper flange and the lower flange 52, 54 of the intermediate layer 42. During the operation of the applicator assembly 34, the bent intermediate layer 42, with the profile 44 between the flanges 52, 54 of the intermediate layer 42, is provided to the sealing bars 152 through the rotation of the bands 160 around the rollers 212, 216.

The grooves 158 of the wheels 154, 156 capture the profile 44 and correctly align the profile 44 to engage it with the sealing surface 206. As mentioned above, the sealing bars 152 seal the profile 44 to the intermediate layer 42 without actually touching the intermediate layer 42 or the profile 44 because the bands 160 are placed between the sealing bars 152 and the intermediate layer 42 and the profile 44 In Figure 15, wheels 154, 156 and bands 160 are offset from bent intermediate layer 42 for purposes of illustration. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, once the profile 44 has been sealed to the intermediate layer 42 and the adhesive surfaces 60, 62 have been sealed together to form the fastener tape 40, the fastener tape 40 proceeds to a pair of cooling blocks 220. The cooling blocks 220 prevent the fastener tape 40 from being deformed due to prolonged exposure to heat. Figure 16 illustrates the cooling blocks 220 with the fastener tape 40 between the gripper while this tape 40 leaves the applicator assembly 34. The cooling blocks 220 are mounted to the applicator assembly 34 via the mounting plates 222. The compressed air is provided at about 45.4 kg per 2.54 cm3 (100 psi) through air lines 224 block higher cooling block lower cooling 220 in order to cool the fastener tape 40 after passed through the sealing processes. Preferably, the cold air must be at least cooler than the ambient air. More preferably, the temperature of the cold air should approach approximately -17.8 ° C (0 ° F). The cold air is directed downward into the fastener tape 40. The chill blocks 220 are available with I.T.W. Vortex, Cincinnati, Ohio. An alternative for the cooling blocks 220 of the present invention may be to route the fastener tape 40 through cooled rollers (not shown) to dissipate the heat. In the preferred embodiment, while a fastener tape 40 proceeds from the chill blocks 220, a sharp blade (not shown), aligned parallel to the machine direction of the fastener tape 40, contacts and cuts the layer. intermediate 42 in the fold line 132 and divide the portion of the intermediate layer treated with the non-sealable barrier 50 into two separate continuous portions generally referred to as tabs 236 and the opposite wall 238. the tab 236 and the opposite wall 238 shown in Figures 17 and 18. The sharp blade removes the fold 51 created by the fold line 132 from the fastener tape 40. Once the intermediate layer 42 has cut along the fold line 132, the middle layer 42 becomes two separate continuous portions joined together by the continuous profile 44. Figure 17 illustrates the fastener tape 40 having the fold 51 and Figure 18 illustrates the fastener tape 40 free fold 51 shown in Figure 17. The fastener tape made 40 proceeds from the cooling bars 220 and the applicator assembly 34 to the collector assembly belt shown in Figure 19. The fastener tape 40 is collected on a roll energized winding 240. The plurality of rollers 242 axially extended from the face of a base 244 of the belt gathering assembly 36. The placement of the rollers 242 in the base 244 are automatically aligned. The rollers 242 can slide along their axis. Figure 20 illustrates a simplified and general diagram of one of the embodiments of the present invention 30. The use of the fastener tape manufacturing equipment to manufacture fastener tape to be fixed in the opening of a "reclosable" bag constitutes a method inventive of the present invention additionally of the manufacturing equipment itself. In the practice of one of the embodiments of the method of manufacturing the fastener tape as described above, the steps include the dispatch of a continuous strip of intermediate layer 42. The method then includes the step of delivering the intermediate layer to the applicator assembly 34, as described above. The invention also includes the step of folding the intermediate layer 42 to obtain a fold 51 as described above. After the bend step, the method includes the step of inserting the profile 44 into the fold 51 as described above. The method then includes the step of attaching the fastener of the profile 44 to the intermediate layer 42. As described above, the step for attaching the profile 44 to the intermediate layer 42 is carried out by aligning the fastener of the profile 44 with the layer intermediate 42 and sealing the fastener of the profile 44 with the intermediate layer 42 and sealing the fastener of the profile 44 with the intermediate layer 42 to form a continuous strip of fastener tape 40.

The method also includes the steps for adjusting the tension of the intermediate layer and / or the profile fastener that is delivered to the applicator assembly 34 as described above. The method may also include the step of cooling the fastener tape 40 in response to sealing the profile 44 towards the intermediate layer 42. Also, the method may include the step of making a slit to the intermediate layer 42 along the line of bending 132 to form two separate portions of the intermediate layer 42. The method of the present invention may also include the step of collecting a continuous strip of the fastener tape 40 in response to the formation of the fastener tape 40 as described above. The fastener tape 40 of the present invention, which is made in accordance with the apparatus and process identified above, can be used in the manufacture of plastic bags by fixing the fastener tape 40 to form the plastic bag 58 as shown in FIG. Figures 21 and 22.

The process and the apparatus for fixing the fastening tape to make a plastic bag "reclosable" is described in greater detail in the U.S. Patent Application. co-pending with Serial Number E.U. 08 / 899,434 filed July 24, 1997, and entitled "Material for Fastening Tape, Bag Material Using a Fastening Tape and Method of Manufacture of This", the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety for reference. As shown in Figures 21 and 22, to form a "reclosable" plastic bag 58, the fastening tape 40 is fixed to a base material 258. The fastening tape 40 which is fixed to the base material 258 through sealing the flange bottom 54, tongue 236 and opposite wall 238 to base material 258. Seals between base material 258 and lower flange 54, tongue 236 and opposite wall 238 are generally designated with reference number 250. Seals 250 are made in accordance with the disclosure contained within the reference identified above. However, it should be noted, that the flange 52 is not sealed to the base material 258. Therefore, the flange 52 is not required to be as wide as the flange 54. When sealed, the adhesive surfaces 60, 62 form a elongated seal barrier removable above profile 44 to seal opposite sides of the plastic bag as shown in Figures 21 and 22. The seal barrier is commonly referred to as a contact seal and is intended primarily as an additional barrier against contaminants when the bag also includes a frangible strip 260 which is formed by a row of perforations 262 along the top of the plastic bag 58. The product in the bag 58 determines whether the bag 58 should have a frangible strip 260 or do not. The contact seal of the plastic bag 58 seals the contents of the bag until the consumer opens the plastic bag 58 from the top. The perforations 262 must be displaced laterally above the contact seal and the profile 44. The consumer simply breaks the frangible tape 260 along the row of the perforations 262 and separates the contact seal and the profile to gain access to the bag. of plastic 58. Figure 22 illustrates a modification to the bag 58 shown in Figure 21. In Figure 22, a portion of the fold 51 is configured to be included in the seal 270 on the top of the bag 58 to facilitate the opening of the bag 58.

Alternatively, a fastener tape 40, which has been cut along the fold line 132, can also be included in the seal 270. The perforations can be included in the fold 51 such that the portion of the fastener tape included in the fold the seal 270 breaks when the frangible strip 260 is removed. In Figure 22, both the tab 236 and the opposite wall 238 include a row of perforations 272 which they were aligned in parallel with the perforations 263. The breakable tape 260 can be removed from the bag 58 by breaking along the perforations 262 and 272. The present invention has been illustrated in more detail by the specific examples above. It should be understood that these examples are illustrative embodiments and that this invention is not limited by any of the examples or details in the description. Those skilled in the art can recognize that the present invention has the ability to go through many modifications and variations without departing from the scope of the invention. Correspondingly, the detailed description and the examples are intended to be illustrative and do not represent limitations in any way to the scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims. On the contrary, the claims appended hereto should be broadly construed within the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims (8)

1. CLAIMS 1. A fastener tape for loading profile fasteners that will be mounted in an opening in a "reclosable" bag having opposite sides, the fastener tape comprising: an intermediate layer having opposite longitudinal edges; an elongate non-sealable barrier extending substantially together and laterally spaced from the edges; and an interclose profile fastener over the intermediate layer, wherein the profile fastener substantially jointly extends and is laterally spaced from the edges and from the non-sealable barrier.
2. 2. The fastener tape of Claim 1 further comprises an elongated seal barrier detachable in the intermediate layer for sealing the opposite sides of the "reclosable" bag, the seal barrier being substantially co-spaced and laterally spaced from the edges of the bag. intermediate layer and profile bra.
3. 3. The fastener tape of Claim 1 where the non-sealable barrier is printed on the intermediate layer.
4. 4. The fastener tape of claim 1 wherein the non-sealable barrier is laminated on the intermediate layer.
5. 5. The fastener tape of Claim 1 wherein the non-sealable barrier is extruded together with the intermediate layer.
6. 6. The fastener tape of the Claim 1 where the non-sealable barrier is nitro cellulose. The fastening tape of Claim 1 wherein the intermediate layer is defined by a tongue, a fold connected to this tongue, an opposite wall connected to this fold and a lower flange connected to the opposite wall, and the tongue, the opposite wall and the lower flange have an outer surface with the ability to be sealed to the bag. 8. The fastener tape of Claim 7 wherein a portion of the fold is engaged between opposite sides of the "reclosable" bag when it is formed. 10. The fastener tape of Claim 7 is free of this fold. 11. The fastener tape of Claim 7 wherein the fastener of the profile is connected to the intermediate layer between an inner surface of the tongue and the opposite wall. 12. The fastening tape of Claim and further defined by an upper flange connected to the tongue. 13. The tape holder of the Claim 12 where the seal barrier is connected to the intermediate layer between the upper flange and the lower flange. The fastener tape of Claim 12 wherein the release seal barrier comprises a first adhesive elongate surface and a second adhesive elongate surface on the bottom flange and the top flange respectively, wherein the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface are opposite each other and couple the opposite sides of the "reclosable" bag to any of these when the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface are aligned and sealed together. 15. The fastener tape of Claim 12 wherein the seal barrier comprises an adhesive elongate surface on one of any of the lower and upper surfaces, wherein the adhesive surface couples the opposite sides of the "reclosable" bag to each other. 16. The fastener tape of Claim 14 wherein the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface have a combined adhesion strength in the range of about 600 to 800 grams in order to attach opposite sides of the "reclosable" bag to each other. . 17. The fastener tape of Claim 16 wherein the adhesive surface has an adhesive force in the range of about 600 to 700 grams in order to attach the opposite sides of the "reclosable" bag to each other. 18. The fastener tape of Claim 14 wherein the side width of the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface is approximately 0.95 cm (3/8 inch). 19. The fastener tape of Claim 16 wherein the side width of the adhesive surface is approximately 0.925 cm (3/8 inch). 20. An intermediate layer for loading profile fasteners having opposite exterior surfaces and opposite longitudinal edges, wherein the intermediate layer is comprised of an elongated non-sealable barrier on one of the outer surfaces, and where the non-sealable barrier is spread together and is laterally spaced from the edges. 21. The intermediate layer of Claim 20 further comprises: a first adhesive elongate surface on one of the outer surfaces, wherein the first adhesive surface substantially extends jointly and is laterally spaced from the edges; and a second adhesive elongate surface that substantially extends together and is laterally spaced from the edges and from the first adhesive surface, and wherein the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface couple together the opposite sides of the bag. "reclosable", wherein the first adhesive surface is closer in proximity to one of the edges than the second adhesive surface is toward the other edge, and where the non-sealable barrier is substantially between the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface . 22. An apparatus for manufacturing a fastener tape for use in the manufacture of bags "reclosable" which is comprised of: a continuous strip of intermediate layer having longitudinal edges; an applicator assembly; elements for delivering the intermediate layer to the applicator assembly in a substantially continuous manner; elements for folding the intermediate layer to obtain a fold; and elements for inserting a continuous strip of the profile fastener into the fold; the applicator assembly is comprised of: elements for aligning the profile holder within the fold with the intermediate layer; and elements for sealing the profile fastener to the intermediate layer to form a continuous strip of the fastener tape. 23. The apparatus of Claim 22 further comprises elements for adjusting the tension of the intermediate layer in the delivery elements. 24. The apparatus of Claim 22 further comprises elements for adjusting the tension of the profile fastener before inserting the profile fastener into the fold. The apparatus of Claim 24 wherein the elements for adjusting the tension of the profile fastener is comprised of a roll without motorized winding to unwind the profile fastener therefrom, an arm pivoting between the first position and the second position in response to the tension in the profile holder, the unrolled roll varies the speed at which the profile holder is unrolled from there in response to the pivoting of the arm. 26. The apparatus of Claim 22 further is comprised of elements for cooling the fastener tape in response to sealing the profile fastener to the intermediate layer. 27. The apparatus of Claim 22 further is comprised of elements for grooving the fold to form two continuous spaced portions of the intermediate layer coupled by the continuous strip of the profile fastener. 28. The apparatus of Claim 22 is further comprised of elements for collecting the fastener tape in response to the formation of the fastener tape. 29. The apparatus of Claim 22, wherein the delivery elements are comprised of the intermediate layer wound on an unrolled roll, the unwinding roll is laterally adjustable relative to the folding elements. 30. The apparatus of Claim 29 wherein the delivery elements further comprise a motorized drive roller for dispensing the intermediate layer from the unrolled roll. The apparatus of Claim 23 wherein the delivery elements are comprised of a motorized driving roller and a plurality of dancing rollers, and wherein the adjustment elements are comprised of an arm pivoting about an axis between the first position and the second position in response to the tension in the intermediate layer engaged by the dancer rollers, at least one of the dancer rollers is operatively coupled to the arm and which is displaced from the axis, where a cam rigid with respect to the arm and which rotates from there it has a cam surface defined about the axis with an eccentric portion and a radius that varies continuously with respect to the axis between a first longer radius and a second shorter radius, where the first radius and the second radius correspond substantially to the first radius position and to the second position respectively, where the drive roller adjusts the tension on the fabric of the base on the rollers As a result of the rotation of the cam around the axis while the arm swings from the first portion towards the second portion and vice versa, where the intermediate layer inside the dancer rollers are kept under a constant tension. 32. The apparatus of Claim 31 further comprises elements for sensing movement of the cam in the eccentric portion from the first radius and the second radius relative to the sensor element., and where the drive roller operates in response to the sensor movement of the cam. 33. The apparatus of Claim 22 wherein the sealing element is comprised of a first pair of vertically opposed elongated sealing bars that move relative to each other from a free spaced position within a clamped and sealable position relative to the other. the intermediate layer and the profile fastener, wherein the profile fastener is secured to the intermediate layer when the first pair of sealing bars are in the clamped and sealant position to thereby form the fastener tape. 34. The apparatus of Claim 33 wherein the first pair of sealing bars is heated. 35. The apparatus of Claim 33 wherein the sealing elements further comprises a second pair of vertically opposed elongated sealing bars that move relative to each other from the free spaced position within a clamped and seated position relative to the intermediate layer, the second pair of sealing bars is compensated from the first pair of sealing bars related to contact with the intermediate layer and wherein the intermediate layer comprises at least one adhesive elongate surface that substantially extends together and is laterally spaced of the edge of the intermediate layer, where the adhesive surface seals the intermediate layer to itself when the intermediate layer is bent and when the second stop of sealing bars are in the position held by clamp and sealant. 36. The apparatus of Claim 33 wherein the sealing elements are comprised of a pair of vertically opposed elongated sealing bars that are movable with respect to each other from a free spaced position within the clamped and sealant position relative to the intermediate layer , wherein the second pair of the sealing bars are offset from the first pair of the sealing bars when they make contact with the intermediate layer while they are in the clamped and sealing position, and where the intermediate layer is comprised of a first adhesive surface elongated and a second elongated adhesive surface spaced laterally between each other. { and that substantially extend together and are spaced laterally from the edges of the intermediate layer, where the second pair of sealing bars engages the intermediate layer such that the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface seal the intermediate layer to itself when the intermediate layer is bent and the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface are aligned with each other. 37. The apparatus of Claim 36 wherein the second pair of sealing bars are heated. 381 The apparatus of Claim 22 wherein the alignment elements are comprised of a rotating wheel, wherein the wheel includes an outer peripheral surface which forces the profile against the intermediate layer and a circumferential groove in the external surface sized to receive the fastener profile and retain the profile holder in alignment with the intermediate layer. 39. The apparatus of Claim 22 wherein each alignment element is comprised of a pair of opposed wheels, each of the wheels of the pair of wheels has a circumferential groove in the outer surface, and where the pair of wheels cooperates in such a manner which allow the profile clamp and intermediate layer to pass between them and align the profile clamp with the intermediate layer. 40. The apparatus of Claim 22 wherein the bending elements comprise a panel member having a generally V-shaped configuration defined by an upper surface and a first converging edge and a second converging edge, wherein said edges converge towards a vertex at a rear end of the V-shaped panel member, and a guide roller positioned adjacent the apex in a fixed angular relationship and spaced apart from the panel member, where the intermediate layer passes over the upper surface and edges convergent to define the line of doubles in the vertex and pass over the guide roll to fold the intermediate layer in the fold line. 41. A method for manufacturing a fastener tape for attaching to an opening of a "reclosable" bag, wherein the method is comprised of the steps of: dispensing a continuous strip of the intermediate layer; delivering the intermediate layer to an applicator assembly in a substantially continuous manner: folding the intermediate layer to obtain a fold; insert a continuous strip of profile fastener into the fold; and fixing the profile fastener to the intermediate layer, where these fixing steps are comprised of the steps of: aligning the fastener of the profile with the base material; and sealing the profile fastener to the base material to form a continuous strip of the fastener tape. 42. The method of Claim 41 further is comprised of the step of adjusting the tension of the intermediate layer that is delivered within the applicator assembly. 43. The method of Claim 41 further is comprised of the step of adjusting the tension of the profile fastener before inserting the profile fastener into the fold. 44. The method of Claim 41 further is comprised of the step of cooling the fastener tape in response to sealing the profile fastener to the intermediate layer. 45. The method of Claim 41 further comprises the step of making a slit in the intermediate layer along the fold line defined by the bend to form two separate portions of the intermediate layer. 46. The method of Claim 41 further is comprised of the step of collecting the continuous strip of the fastener tape in response to the formation of the fastener tape. 47. A fastener tape that is produced according to the process of Claim 41. 48. An apparatus for manufacturing a fastener tape for use in the manufacture of "reclosable" bags comprising: a delivery assembly; an applicator assembly, wherein the applicator assembly provides an intermediate layer in a substantially continuous manner and with a substantially constant tension to the applicator assembly: wherein a generally V-shaped member and a guide roller in a fixed and spaced angular relationship apart between s. { i, where the intermediate layer passes over the upper surface and towards a vertex of the V-shaped member, where the intermediate layer changes direction, relative to the direction of the intermediate layer passing over the upper surface, where when it passes over the apex and the intermediate layer passes over the guide roller to form a fold of the intermediate layer; and a sealing assembly which is comprised of a first pair of vertically opposed elongated sealing rods which are movable with respect to each other from the free spaced position within the clamped and sealant position relative to the intermediate layer and a fastener profile, wherein the profile fastener is secured to the intermediate layer when the first pair of sealing bars are in the clamped position and the sealing position to thereby form the fastening tape. 49. The apparatus of Claim 48 further is comprised of an unrolled profile assembly for providing the profile fastener to the applicator assembly. 50. The apparatus of Claim 49 wherein the unrolled profile assembly provides the profile fastener in a substantially constant manner and with a substantially constant tension. 51. The apparatus of Claim 50 wherein the delivery assembly adjusts the tension of the intermediate layer delivered to the applicator assembly by varying the speed at which the intermediate layer is unwound. 52. The apparatus of Claim 48 is further comprised of a pair of opposed wheels, each of the wheels of each pair of wheels has a circumferential groove in the outer peripheral surface and where the pair of wheels and grooves cooperate in such a way as to allow that the profile clamp and the intermediate layer pass between this and align the profile clamp with the intermediate layer. 53. The apparatus of Claim 58 is further comprised of a second pair of elongated, vertically opposed elongated sealing bars which movably with respect to each other from a free spaced position within a clamped and seated position relative to the intermediate layer. , wherein the second pair of sealing bars are offset from the first pair of sealing bars when they come into contact with the intermediate layer while in the clamped and sealant position, and where the intermediate layer is comprised of a first elongated adhesive surface. and a second laterally elongated adhesive surface spaced apart from each other which extend together and are laterally spaced from the edges of the intermediate layer, where the second pair of sealing bars engage the intermediate layer while in the clamped position and sealing position so that the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface seals the intermediate layer to itself when the intermediate layer is bent and the first adhesive surface and the second adhesive surface align with each other. 54. A reclosable pouch having an opening and opposing sides, the reclosable pouch is comprised of: a fastening tape comprising a profile fastener that is loaded by an intermediate layer, the fastener tape is assembled and extended together with the fastener opening. the "reclosable" bag, where the intermediate layer defines a fold, a portion of the fold is configured to be sealed to the "reclosable" bag when the opposite sides of the reclosable bag are sealed together and removed from the reclosable bag when they have access to the contents of the bag reclosable through the opening of said reclosable bag. 55. The reclosable bag of Claim 54 wherein the intermediate layer is defined by a tongue, where the fold connected to the tongue, an opposite wall connected to the fold, a portion of the tongue and the opposite wall are configured to be sealed to the tongue. reclosable bag when the opposite sides of the reclosable bag are sealed together and removed from the reclosable bag when the contents of the reclosable bag are accessed through the opening of the reclosable bag 56 The reclosable bag of the bag Claim 54 where the fastener tape is free of this fold.