NZ714305A - Improved shrink wrap packaging 2 - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention provides improved shrink wrapped films.

Description

IMPROVED SHRINK WRAP PACKAGING 2 FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to the shrink wrapping of multiple items to allow for unitized handling. More particularly, the invention relates to shrink wrap sleeves that facilitate unitized handling of the items and are also more economical to produce.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION Shrink wrapping is a familiar method of packaging goods that has been well used for decades. Generally, a polymer film is arranged about the product(s) to be packaged, and heat applied subsequently by a heat gun or passing through a shrink tunnel or oven.

Application of heat causes the film to constrict around the product(s).

Shrink wrap can be supplied in several forms. Flat rollstock can be wrapped around a product, often with heat sealing to tack the film together. Centerfolded film is supplied on a roll with the plastic is folded in half: product is placed in the center portion, the remaining three edges are sealed to form a bag, and the package then heated which causes the bag to shrink and conform to the product placed in the bag. Pre-formed shrink bags plastic bags are used with one end open: the product is placed in the bag, sealed, and sent for heat shrinking.

Shrink wrap is commonly used as an overwrap on many types of packaging, including cartons, boxes, beverage cans and pallet loads. A variety of products may be enclosed in shrink wrap to stabilize the products, unitize them, maintain cleanliness or add tamper resistance. It can be the primary covering for some foods such as cheese, meats, vegetables and plants.

Shrink wrapping is commonly used to unitize multiple containers for beverages such as bottled water, soft drink, milk and the like. A problem arises when the individual containers must be removed, as required when stocking a supermarket shelf, for example. It is a problem that when unwrapping products unitized by shrink wrapping, it is necessary to cut the wrapping with a knife (or similar instrument) or to tear the film to release the individual items. This adds time, and slows the throughput of supermarket shelf stocking personnel.

The use of a knife also provides an occupational health and safety hazard.

Unitized shrink wrapped products may also be difficult to lift and carry, especially where multiple beverage products are involved. It is typically necessary for the handler to lean 40 forward, insert the fingers under the package and elevate it to waist height by straightening the back. This leads to significant strain on the back, and may lead to a work place injury.

For example, where 6 x 2 litre milk containers are unitized, the package weight is 12 kg.

A further problem is the cost of shrink wrapping. While convenient (there is no need to 45 incorporate crates into the supply chain, for example) it is a costly method. This is especially the case for large items of relatively low value (such as beverages) where the cost of shrink wrapping is ideally minimised to maintain or increase profit.

It is an aspect of the present invention to overcome of ameliorate a problem of the prior art 50 by providing improved shrink wrap packaging, and also methods for applying shrink wrap film.

It is a further aspect to provide an alternative to prior art shrink wrap packaging and methods for application.

The discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles and the like is included in this specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all of these matters formed part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention as it existed 60 before the priority date of each claim of this application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 65 In a first aspect, the present invention provides a shrink wrap sleeve for unitizing two or more items, the sleeve comprising a first film region and a second film region, the first film region having an area less than that of the second film region.

In one embodiment, the area of the first film region is less than about 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 70 50%, 40%, 30%, 20% or 10% of that of the second film region.

In one embodiment the area is of the first film region is less than about 60% of that of the second film region. In another embodiment the area is of the first film region is about 50% of that of the second film region.

In one embodiment the first and second film regions are discrete films bonded along at least one edge. In another embodiment the first and second film regions are discrete films bonded along two edges. A further embodiment provides that the two edges are opposite each other and/or substantially parallel to each other.

In one embodiment, the length of the first film region substantially identical to that of the second film region In one embodiment a dimension of the first film region is less than that of the second film 85 region.

In one embodiment the width of the first film region is less than about 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20% or 10% of that of the second film region. In another embodiment the width of the first film region is less than about 60% of that of the second film region. A 90 further embodiment provides that the width of the first film region is about 50% of that of the second film region.

In one embodiment, the first film region is longer than the second film region such that when the sleeve is laid flat, the first film region does not lay flush against the first film region.

In one embodiment, the first film region is at least about 110% the length of the second film region.

In one embodiment when superimposed, the first film region is substantially central with 100 respect to the second film region.

In one embodiment the first film region (when shrunk) has a greater resistance to mechanical deformation than the second film region (when shrunk). In another embodiment the first film region has a thickness greater than that of the second film region. The first film 105 region may have a thickness at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, or 50% greater than the second film region.

In one embodiment the first film region has a thickness of greater than about 60 µm and/or the second film region has a thickness of less than about 60 µm. In another embodiment the 110 first film region has a thickness of between about 60 µm to 80 µm, and the second film region has a thickness of between about 40 µm to 60 µm. Yet a further provides that the first film region has a thickness of greater than about 80 µm and/or the second film region has a thickness of less than about 80 µm. Still a further embodiment provides that the first film region has a thickness of between about 80 µm to 100 µm, and the second film region has a 115 thickness of between about 60 µm to 80 µm.

In one embodiment of the shrink wrap sleeve, the first and second film regions are shaped, dimensioned or otherwise configured so as to form a basket-like arrangement upon shrinking around two or more products.

In a second aspect the present invention provides a method for unitizing two or more products, the method comprising the steps of: providing two or more products; providing a first length of film; providing a second length of film, the second length of film being wider than the first length of film; disposing the two or more products between the first and 125 second lengths of film; bonding the edges of the first and second lengths of film to form a sleeve; and heating the first and second lengths of film such that the lengths of film contract about the two or more products.

In one embodiment of the method, the two or more products are disposed between the first 130 and second lengths of film before the step of bonding.

In one embodiment of the method, the two or more products are beverage containers.

In one embodiment of the method, each of the beverage containers is capable of containing 135 at least about 1 litre, or at least about 2 litres.

In one embodiment the method comprises the step of cutting the first and second lengths of film to form an isolated sleeve, the cutting step being performed before, or contemporaneously with, the heating step.

In one embodiment of the method, the first length of film and/or second length of film has a characteristic as described herein.

In a third aspect the present invention provides a shrink wrapped product produced the 145 method as described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Fig. 1A shows diagrammatically a prior art shrink wrap sleeve having two open ends and first and second regions of film. The first and second regions are of equal area.

Fig. 4B shows the same sleeve of Panel A after the application of heat.

Fig. 1C shows diagrammatically a shrink wrap sleeve of the present invention having two open ends and first and second regions of film. The first region has an area which is less than that of the second region. Fig. 1D D shows the same sleeve of Fig. 1C after the application of heat.

Fig. 2 is a drawing of unitized packages holding beverage containers, produced using the sleeveshown in Figs. 1C, 1D and 3.. Rigid carry handles are inserted beneath the first film region. 165 Fig. 3 is a diagram (in plan view) of a sleeve of the present invention, laid flat and devoid of product.

Fig. 4A shows diagrammatically a prior art shrink wrap sleeve having two open ends and first and second regions of film. The first and second regions are of equal area.

Fig. 4B shows the same sleeve of Fig. 4A after the application of heat.

Fig. 4C shows diagrammatically a shrink wrap sleeve of the present invention having two open ends and first and second regions of film. The first region has an area which is less 175 than that of the second region.

Fig. 4D shows the same sleeve of Panel 4C after the application of heat.

Fig. 5 is a drawing of unitized packages holding beverage containers, produced using a 180 sleeve shown in Figs. 4C, 4D and 6. Rigid carry handles are inserted beneath the first film region.

Fig. 6 is a diagram (in plan view) of a sleeve of the present invention, laid flat and devoid of product, where the first film region is longer than the second film region.

Fig. 7 is a diagram (in plan view) of a sleeve of the present invention, laid flat and devoid of product, where the first film region is longer than the second film region. The first film region is longer than the first film region of the embodiment of Fig. 6, with the dimensions of second film region being identical to those of the second film region of the embodiment of Fig. 6.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION After considering this description it will be apparent to one skilled in the art how the invention 195 is implemented in various alternative embodiments and alternative applications. However, although various embodiments of the present invention will be described herein, it is understood that these embodiments are presented by way of example only, and not limitation. As such, this description of various alternative embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope or breadth of the present invention. Furthermore, statements of 200 advantages or other aspects apply to specific exemplary embodiments, and not necessarily to all embodiments covered by the claims.

Throughout the description and the claims of this specification the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises” is not intended to exclude other 205 additives, components, integers or steps.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the 210 phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may.

In a first aspect the present invention provides a shrink wrap sleeve for unitizing two or more items, the sleeve comprising a first film region and a second film region, the first film region 215 having an area less than that of the second film region. The present invention is a significant departure from prior art shrink wrap sleeves in which the upper and lower film layers are substantially the same size.

As used herein, the term “sleeve” (and variations thereof) is intended to include any tube-like 220 form. The film forming the sleeve may be formed without joins, have two joins, or even multiple joins. Typically, the sleeve is formed by joining together two sheets of film: a first piece of film disposed above a second piece of film with the two sheets bonded along two sides (often by a welding method) to form a structure having two open ends. 225 In one embodiment, a join between the two sheets of film may be configured to facilitate opening the shrink wrapped products. This may be achieved by the join being discontinuous, such that a space is left allowing a finger (or other implement) to be inserted between the two sheets to facilitate tearing of the film along or about the join. Alternatively, the join many be configured to be frangible or otherwise easily breakable at one or more 230 points along the join.

As used herein, the term “unitizing” (and variations thereof) includes any method for bringing together two or more items, such that the items may be handled as one. The unitization may further result in a protective function, but this function is not necessary in the context of the 235 invention.

The term “film region” (and variations thereof) is intended to be constructed broadly, and not limited to a situation where a clear demarcation exists between two or more regions of film.

A precise demarcation line is not required in the context of the present invention, with some 240 embodiments having a graduation between the film regions.

The implementation of two regions of different size is in direct contrast to the prior art, and provides significant advantage. In particular, the use of a region having a relatively small area on an uppermost region of the sleeve provides for each of the unitized items to be 245 easily released from the shrink wrapping, and without the need to tear or cut the sleeve.

This ease of release is afforded by the formation of a larger end hole, compared with the prior art. The larger end hole requires, in some embodiments, only gentle stretching of the sleeve film or the manipulation of the product in order for the top of the product to clear the edge of the end hole. Reference is made to Fig. 1 which shows a comparison of end holes 250 formed by the shrink wrapping of consumer milk containers using a prior art sleeve (Panel A: before heat application; Panel B: after heat application), and using a sleeve of the present invention (Panel C: before heat application; Panel D after heat application).

It will be noted that the end hole of the prior art package is relatively small, with the vast 255 majority of the external surfaces of the containers enclosed being covered by the film. It will be clear that the area about the end hole must be cut or torn to release any one of the enclosed containers.

By contrast, the end hole formed when a sleeve of the present invention is used is relatively 260 large with a much smaller proportion of the external surfaces of the milk containers being covered the film. It will be appreciated that the lid region of a container is easily released by slightly stretching the film about the container lids and angling the container so that the lid region passes under an upper edge of the end hole. Once the first container is released in this way, any subsequent containers may be released without any stretching of the film (or 265 minimal stretching) given the extra room made by the removal of the first container.

The provision of a relatively large end hole affords a further advantage in that a great volume air is allowed to circulate between the individual beverage containers. Where the beverage is refrigerated (such as is the case with milk) the greater opportunity for refrigerated air to 270 contact the external surfaces of the containers allows for more rapid and/or more complete cooling of the contents.

In one embodiment, the sleeve (when shrunk about a number of products to form a package) is configured to provide an end hole having an area of greater than about 10%, 275 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% the total surface area of the package.

Preferably, the end hole has an area of greater than about 50% the total surface area of the package. Where two or more end holes result from the shrink wrapping process the combined surface are of the end holes is greater than about 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% the total surface area of the package. Preferably, the end holes 280 have a combined area of greater than about 50% the total surface area of the package.

It is a requirement of the present invention that the area of the first film region is less than that of the second film region. In some embodiments, the first film region has an area of less than about 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20% or 10% the area of the second film 285 region.

In one exemplary embodiment, the second film region is a film of dimension 500 mm x 500 mm. The first film region is a film of dimension of 500 mm x 250 mm, and is overlaid on the second film region. Thus the first and second regions may be considered to have the same 290 length, but different width. The first and second regions are welded together along two edges to form a sleeve. This embodiment is illustrated in Fig. 1C. Based on the aforementioned dimensions, it will be apparent that a 25% saving of film use is provided, as compared to a prior art sleeve where the first and second film regions are both 500 mm x 500 mm. Based on the amounts of shrink wrap film used by large scale beverage producers 295 for packaging, the monetary savings provided by the present invention are substantial.

Moreover, environmental advantages are provided by the use of 25% less film. While many types of shrink wrapping film a recyclable, much is never recycled. In any event, the recycling process itself utilizes energy and resources and is therefore preferably avoided 300 where at all possible.

Upon a consideration of width, the first film region may have a width of less than about 100% 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20% or 10% of the width of the second film region.

Preferably, the first film region has a width of less than about 50%, of the width of the second 305 film region.

Upon a consideration of length, the first film region may have a length which is greater than that of the second film region such that when the sleeve is laid flat, the first film region does not lay flush against the first film region. Exemplary embodiments are shown in Figs. 6 and 310 7. By lengthening the first film region, a taller handle-like arrangement is formed, and a more shallow bowl-like arrangement is formed.

Embodiments where, the first film region has a length which is greater than that of the second film region provide additional savings in shrink film usage (i.e. additional to the 315 savings provided by reducing the width of the first film region). Such savings therefore providing even further advantage over the prior art where the first and second film regions are of equal width and length.

With reference to the terms “width” and “length”, it will be understood these terms apply to an 320 elongate film region. Square film regions are contemplated to be useful, and where a film region is square, it will be understood that the terms “width” and “length” are interchangeable.

In some embodiments, the first film region has a length of greater than about 100%, 110%, 325 120%, 130%, 140%, 150%, 160%, 170%, 180%, 190% or 200% the length of the second film region. Preferably, the first film region has a length of greater than about 10%, of the width of the second film region.

It will be understood that in embodiments where the second film region is longer than the 330 first film region, some adjustment may be made to the second film region to improve strength of the bowl-like arrangement formed. At for some product types, a more shallow bowl-like region may require some fortification to prevent the loss of product from the unitized package during transport or handling. Thus, in some embodiments, the second film region is comprised of a film which is more resistant to mechanical deformation than the first film 335 region. For example, the second film region may be comprised of a thicker film, or a film fabricated from an inherently stronger material.

In any event, the skilled person has detailed knowledge of shrink wrap films and testing procedures allowing for the routine selection of a material suitable for the second film region 340 in circumstances where the first film region is longer than the second film region.

The ability to easily release products unitized by shrink wrapping allows to efficiency increases in handling goods in a supply chain. In particular, a significant amount of time is wasted in stocking supermarket shelves with products received in shrink wrap.

There is also time wasted by the consumer dealing with shrink wrapped items. For example, children’s single serve milk drinks (typically of volume 200 ml) are often sold in shrink wrapped packages of 6 rectangular boxes. The unitized package may have a small end hole (or in some cases no end hole), forcing the consumer to resort to the use of scissors or 350 a kitchen knife to release individual containers. The use of sleeves of the present invention will be of advantage in these situations as well allowing consumers to more easily release individual drink boxes. This advantage is amplified in embodiments where the second film region is longer than the first film region, given that the larger end hole facilitates removal of product from the unitized package.

An economic advantage is gained for the packager, given that significantly less shrink wrap film is used to achieve the same end. Applicant has found that individual products can be maintained as a unitized package without the need to virtually encase the products in shrink wrap film. It is only necessary to bind a portion of the products, such as the lower half, third, 360 quarter, eighth or sixteenth the total height of the products.

The provision of relatively large end holes provides for easier handling of the unitized package. In particular, a larger end hole allows for the insertion of a carry handle which may extend from a first end hole to a second end hole (typically opposite each other) such that 365 the load of the package is assumed mainly by the first film region.

Thus, a package handler simply inserts the rigid carry handle underneath the first film region.

The handler positions himself lateral to the package, bends his knees to lower the hands to a point whereby the handle may be gripped and then extends his knees to lift the package. 370 Ergonomically, this approach to lifting is superior to lifting prior art shrink wrapped packages which require the handler to bend forward at the waist (because the package is to his front), insert the fingers between the base of the package and the ground, and then straighten the waist. It is impossible for the handler to keep the back completely straight when lifting prior art packages. By contrast, lifting packages of the present invention using a handle as 375 described herein allows the handler to maintain his back completely straight and lift from the knees only because of the ability to grip the handle.

Reference is made to Fig. 2 showing the use of rigid carry handles for carrying large beverage containers unitized with a shrink wrap sleeve of the present invention. It will be 380 appreciated that packages weighing more than 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 or 20 kg may be safely lifted with each hand.

The use of handles further provides for significantly less strain on the body when moving heavy packages by hand. It will be appreciated from Fig. 2 that the ability to carry packages 385 at the side of the handler allows for the packages to comfortably remain in that position for some time with little strain on the back. Thus, a package can be carried a considerable difference before fatigue sets in.

Further disclosure relating to preferred embodiments that particularly facilitate the use of 390 carry handles are provided herein infra.

It will be understood that the absolute or proportional difference in surface area of the first region compared with the second region may change according to the size, shape, weight, or number of the products being packaged. For example, where the products are shaped to 395 facilitate close packing (such as rectangular juice cartons) the first region may need to only extend downwardly along the side face of the cartons for a small distance (for example 1, 2 or several centimetres).

However products which are less regularly shaped may not be capable of close packing, and 400 empty space remains between the products (at least at some levels). In those circumstances, the products have greater scope to move relative to each other, and possibly leading to inadvertent release from the package. It will be appreciated that irregularly shaped products may need to be in contact with a greater area of film to prevent accidental dislodgement. An example is found in soft drink bottles that have a broad base with a more 405 slender neck region.

Typically the sleeve is shaped and/or dimensioned to form a basket-like arrangement when shrunk about multiple products. For example, the first film region forms a handle-like arrangement which extends over an upper region of the packaged products, while the 410 second film region forms a bowl-like arrangement which cradles the lower region of the packaged products. Thus, the first film region in these embodiments is more narrow than the second film region, and the first film region is disposed centrally with respect to the second film region. 415 In addition to the first film region being more narrow, the first film region may be longer that the first film region. In this embodiment, a taller handle-like arrangement is formed.

Optionally, a more shallow basket-like arrangement may also be formed.

Irrespective of the relative dimensions of the first and second film regions, the bowl-like 420 arrangement has the advantage of catching and retaining any spillage of liquid which inadvertently leaks from any packaged container.

During heating to shrink the film, the film of the second region (which typically underlies the products to be unitized) contracts upwardly and around the lower regions of the products. 425 This upward movement is assisted in some embodiments where the heat is provided by heated air blown from underneath the second film region.

The first and/or second film regions may be fabricated from any material known to be useful for the purpose of shrink wrapping multiple products to provide unitization. Known shrink 430 wrap films are synthetic polymers, with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) being commonly used. This type of film is commonly used in packaging boxes, CD and DVD packaging, software, small canisters, and other non-edible items. PVC film also works very well with automated machines. The skilled person is familiar with some drawbacks of PVC shrink wrapping including insufficient strength for some applications. Moreover, the plasticizer in PVC films 435 hardens in cold conditions and softens under warmer conditions, therefore compromising the strength of the seal and the plastic.

Polyolefin films are more typically, having become the preferred choice for packaging products both edible and non-edible products. Polyolefin film is preferred for a variety of 440 reasons including: fewer odours when sealed, stronger seal, and more flexible storage.

Polyolefin shrink films do not have any chlorine; therefore they do not produce hydrogen chloride gas. Polyolefin film does not include any plasticizer, so temperature is not an issue.

Polyolefin can be stored in a wide range of temperatures and does not harden and soften in different environments like PVC shrink film. Polyolefin films are commonly used for almost 445 every kind of application including: toys, sporting goods, printed wrap, foods. Drawbacks of polyolefin film includes machine compatibility are the two major drawbacks of polyolefin shrink film. Polyolefin is also commonly more expensive than PVC shrink wrap.

In some embodiments, the first and/or second film region comprises or consists of a 450 polyethylene (particularly low density, linear low density, or high density) or a polypropylene.

The first and second film regions may be composed of identical film types, or may be composed of different film types. Moreover, different film thickness may be used. In particular, the film thickness in the first film region may be thicker than that of the second film 455 region. This embodiment may assist in providing advantage described supra with regard to the insertion of a carry handle under the first film region.

Having the benefit of the present specification the skilled person is capable of selecting a film type for the first and second film regions having regard to a number of factors including 460 strength, temperature issues, product size, product weight, product shape, etc.

For example, where it is desired to unitize a number of products having a combined weight of up to about 8 kg the second film region may comprise film of thickness between about 40 µm to about 60 µm, and a first film region of between about 60 µm to about 80 µm. In those 465 embodiments, the ratio of first to second film thickness ranges from 1:1 to 2:1.

For example, where it is desired to unitize a number of products having a combined weight of greater than about 8 kg the second film region may comprise film of thickness between about 60 µm to about 80 µm, and a first film region of between about 80 µm to about 100 470 µm. In those embodiments, the ratio of first to second film thickness ranges from 1:1 to 10:6.

It is contemplated that other embodiments may have a ratio of first film thickness to second film thickness of at least about 1.1:1, 1.2:1, 1.3:1, 1.4:1, 1.5:1, 1.6:1, 1.7:1, 1.8:1, 1.9:1, 2:1, 2.1:1, 2.2:1, 2.3:1, 2.4:1, 2.5:1, 2.6:1, 2.7:`, 2.8:1, 2.9:1, or 3:1.

It will be appreciated that shrink wrapping is often performed with the assistance of dedicated machines. Typically, the machine holds two rolls of shrink wrap film. The products to be shrink wrapped are disposed between the films of the first and second rolls, with two edges of the films being welded (or bonded in some other way) to form a sleeve surrounding 480 the products. The films are then cut to release the sleeve (with enclosed products), before being exposed to heat to shrink the films. The heat may be applied by passing the products through a shrink tunnel, or by simply directing a heat gun about the products.

For high throughput applications, the process may be automated (or at least partially 485 automated) with conveyors used to position the products to be wrapped between the two films, the films cut, and the products passed through a shrink tunnel by way of conveyor.

Accordingly, it will be apparent that the present invention may be incorporated into the aforementioned methods by providing a first film roll and a second film roll, the first film roll 490 having a width less than the second film roll. Thus, when film from the first and second rolls are disposed about products, and the cut ends of the films are joined, an arrangement such as that shown in Fig. 1C results. That arrangement is then conveyed into a shrink tunnel where heat is applied, leading to the unitized package shown in Fig 1D. 495 In light of the above it will be appreciated that in a further aspect the present invention provides a method for unitizing two or more products, the method comprising the steps of: providing two or more products; providing a first length of film; 500 providing a second length of film, the second length of film being wider than the first length of film; disposing the two or more products between the first and second lengths of film; bonding the edges of the first and second lengths of film to form a sleeve; and heating the first and second lengths of film such that the lengths of film contract 505 about the two or more products.

It is contemplated that the present methods may be executed on existing shrink wrapping machines by simply altering the widths of the film rolls to provide the required differences in area or width of the first and second films. Where required, rolls having film of differential 510 thicknesses may be used in the machine.

Where the first film region is longer than the second film region (such as shown in Figs. 6 and 7) a differential feeding method may be applied to the two films. For example, the 515 longer first film may be fed at a higher rate than the shorter second film region. This may be accomplished by a braking method (such as a pressure pad) being applied to the second film region so as to retard feeding of the second film region compared with the first.

The film used in the methods of the present invention may have any characteristic, any 520 combination of characteristics, or all characteristics described as useful in the sleeves of the present invention, including any composition, shape, width, or thickness as recited herein.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a shrink wrapped product produced by a method described herein.

It will be appreciated that the present invention is disclosed mainly by reference to the unitization of products such as beverages which are typically provided in the form of tetra pak cartons and polyethylene vessels. It will appreciated that the invention is applicable to other products such as dry foods (such as flour and rice, which may be provided in the form 530 of cardboard cartons, sealed plastic bags, or paper wraps), and hardware (such as light globes and toys, which may be provided in the form of cardboard boxes, or rigid plastic shell packaging). However, usage in beverages is particularly advantageous because of the large amounts of films used in that industry, and also because the significant weights of larger beverage containers.

It should be appreciated that in the above description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof, for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of 540 disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as 545 a separate embodiment of this invention.

Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be 550 understood by those skilled in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific 555 details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may 560 be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as falling within the scope of the invention.

The present invention will now be more fully described by reference to the following non- limiting preferred embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFFERED EMBODIMENTS Turning firstly to Fig. 1, a comparison between prior art (Panels A and B) and the shrink 570 wrap sleeves of the present invention (Panels C and D) is shown. The prior art sleeve (shown generally as 10) has a first film region 12, and a second film region 14; each region formed from separate sheets of shrink wrap film of identical size, thickness and composition.

The regions 12 and 14 are welded together along the edges 16 and 18 to form an opening toward the front 20, and an opening at the rear (not shown). Disposed within the sleeve are 575 a number of milk containers (two of which are shown as 22 and 24).

Reference is made to Fig. 1B which shows the sleeve 10 and containers 22 and 24 after application of heat. The films (12 and 14, now shown as shaded) contract about the containers 22 and 24 to form an end hole 26.

Reference is made to Fig. 1C showing a preferred sleeve of the present invention (shown generally as 40) has a first film region 42, and a second film region 44; the first film region 42 formed from a sheet of shrink wrap film which is of narrower dimension than that of the second film region 44. The regions 42 and 44 are welded together along the edges 46 and 585 48 to form the precursor of a basket-like arrangement. The basket-like arrangement is formed by (i) the handle-like arrangement formed by the first film region 42 and (ii) the bowl- like arrangement formed by the second film region 44. Disposed within the sleeve are a number of milk containers (two of which are shown as 50 and 52). 590 Reference is made to Fig. 1D which shows the sleeve 40 and containers 50 and 52 after application of heat. The films (22 and 44, now shown as shaded) contract about the containers 42 and 44 to form an end hole, the edge of which is indicated at 54.

It will be noted that the end hole of the prior art 26 is significantly smaller than that of the 595 present invention 54. It will be further noted that the sleeve of the present invention (when shrunk) is capable or retaining the containers 50 and 52, however to remove a container only the film about the upper region of the end hole 54 need be stretched a small amount to allow a container to be pulled outward (i.e. out of the page as drawn).

The space 56 allows for the insertion of a carry handle (not shown). The use of the carry 600 handle is shown in Fig. 2.

Fig. 3 shows a sleeve of the present invention when laid flat and devoid of product. The lower region (second region) 100 is a film sheet having a first edge dimension 102 and a second edge dimension 104. The upper region (first region) 106 is a film sheet disposed over the lower region 100. The upper region 106 has a first edge dimension 108 and a 605 second edge dimension 110. The upper region 106 and lower region 100 are welded together along the edges 112 and 114. It will be noted that the upper region 106 is disposed centrally over the lower region 100.

Figs. 4 to 7 relate to preferred embodiments providing for the use of lower amounts of film sheet as compared with the embodiments of Fig. 1 to 3. 610 It will be noted from Figs. 4C and 4D (which are directly comparable with Figs 1C and 1D) that a basket-like arrangement is provided. However the handle-like arrangement (formed by the first film region 42 and 44) in the embodiment of Figs 4C and 4D is longer than that of the embodiment of Figs 1C and 1D. By this, a taller handle-like arrangement of the basket is provided, with the bowl-like arrangement of the basket (being formed from the second film 615 region 44) being more shallow as compared with the embodiment of Figs. 1C and 1D.

It will be further noted that heat shrinking the film shown in Fig. 4C about the containers 50 and 52 forms a larger end hole 54 (as shown in Fig. 4D) as compared with the end hole of Fig. 1D.

The formation of a larger end hole 54 is the direct result of the utilization of an overall lower 620 area of shrink film in the embodiment of Figs. 1 to 3 as compared with the embodiment of Figs. 4 to 7.

It has been found that embodiments having a first film region that is longer than the second film region (and therefore having a taller handle-like arrangement and more shallow bowl-like arrangement) are nonetheless capable of securely unitizing containers. Furthermore, the 625 containers may be carried, as shown in Fig. 5.

The sleeve shown in Fig 4C (but devoid of containers) is shown in Fig. 6. In particular, it will be noted that the first film region 106 is longer than the second film region 100 (i.e. dimension 110 is longer than dimension 104) such that when the sleeve is laid flat (as shown in Fig. 6) the first film region 106 is unable to lay flush with the second film region 100. 630 Fig. 7 shows yet a further embodiment of the sleeve with the first film region 106 being even longer than that of the first film region of Fig. 6. In this embodiment, a larger end hole would formed upon shrink wrapping the sleeve about containers than for the embodiment shown in Fig. 6. Accordingly, the embodiment of Fig. 7 uses even less shrink film that the embodiment of Fig. 6.

Claims (30)

CLAIMS 1.:

1. A shrink wrap sleeve for unitizing two or more items, the sleeve comprising a first film region and a second film region, the first film region having an area less than that of the second film region. 645

2. The shrink wrap sleeve of claim 1 wherein the area of the first film region is less than about 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20% or 10% of that of the second film region.

3. The shrink wrap sleeve of claim 1 wherein the area is of the first film region is less than about 60% of that of the second film region.

4. The shrink wrap sleeve of claim 1 wherein the area is of the first film region is about 50% of that of the second film region.

5. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the first and second film 655 regions are discrete films bonded along at least one edge.

6. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the first and second film regions are discrete films bonded along two edges. 660

7. The shrink wrap sleeve of claim 6 wherein the two edges are opposite each other and/or substantially parallel to each other.

8. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the length of the first film region substantially identical to that of the second film region 665 .

9. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein a dimension of the first film region is less than that of the second film region.

10 . The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the width of the 670 first film region is less than about 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, 20% or 10% of that of the second film region.

11. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the width of the first film region is less than about 60% of that of the second film region.

12. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 9 wherein the width of the first film region is about 50% of that of the second film region.

13. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein the first film region is 680 longer than the second film region such that when the sleeve is laid flat, the first film region does not lay flush against the first film region.

14. The shrink wrap sleeve of claim 5 wherein the first film region is at least about 110% the length of the second film region.

15. The shrink wrap sleeve of claim of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein when superimposed, the first film region is substantially central with respect to the second film region.

16. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 15 wherein the first film region (when shrunk) has a greater resistance to mechanical deformation than the second film region (when shrunk). 695

17. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 16 wherein the first film region has a thickness greater than that of the second film region.

18. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 17 wherein the first film region has a thickness at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, or 50% greater than 700 the second film region.

19. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 18 wherein the first film region has a thickness of greater than about 60 µm and/or the second film region has a thickness of less than about 60 µm.

20. The shrink wrap sleeve of claim 18 wherein the first film region has a thickness of between about 60 µm to 80 µm, and the second film region has a thickness of between about 40 µm to 60 µm. 710

21. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 17 wherein the first film region has a thickness of greater than about 80 µm and/or the second film region has a thickness of less than about 80 µm.

22. The shrink wrap sleeve of claim 18 wherein the first film region has a thickness of 715 between about 80 µm to 100 µm, and the second film region has a thickness of between about 60 µm to 80 µm.

23. The shrink wrap sleeve of any one of claims 1 to 22 wherein the first and second film regions are shaped, dimensioned or otherwise configured so as to form a basket-like 720 arrangement upon shrinking around two or more products.

24. A method for unitizing two or more products, the method comprising the steps of: providing two or more products; 725 providing a first length of film; providing a second length of film, the second length of film being wider than the first length of film; disposing the two or more products between the first and second lengths of film; bonding the edges of the first and second lengths of film to form a sleeve; and 730 heating the first and second lengths of film such that the lengths of film contract about the two or more products.

25. The method of claim 24 wherein the two or more products are disposed between the first and second lengths of film before the step of bonding.

26. The method of claim 24 or claim 25 wherein the two or more products are beverage containers.

27. The method of any one of claims 24 to 26 wherein each of the beverage containers is 740 capable of containing at least about 1 litre, or at least about 2 litres.

28. The method of any one of claims 24 to 27 comprising the step of cutting the first and second lengths of film to form an isolated sleeve, the cutting step being performed before, or contemporaneously with, the heating step.

29. The method of any one of claims 24 to 28 wherein the first length of film and/or second length of film has a characteristic as described in any one of claims 1 to 19.

30. A shrink wrapped product produced the method of any one of claims 24 to 29. DATED: 18 November 2014 By: CHURCHILL ATTORNEYS Patent Attorneys for: 755 LACTOTE PTY LTD Unit 201, 55 Cumberland Drive MARIBYRNONG, Victoria 3032 Australia 104 112 FIG. 3