US20030192893A1 - Product package having multi-layer labeling cover assembly - Google Patents
Product package having multi-layer labeling cover assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20030192893A1 US20030192893A1 US10/123,276 US12327602A US2003192893A1 US 20030192893 A1 US20030192893 A1 US 20030192893A1 US 12327602 A US12327602 A US 12327602A US 2003192893 A1 US2003192893 A1 US 2003192893A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- layer
- label
- display
- container base
- protective layer
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
- B65D77/10—Container closures formed after filling
- B65D77/20—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers
- B65D77/2024—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers the cover being welded or adhered to the container
- B65D77/2028—Means for opening the cover other than, or in addition to, a pull tab
- B65D77/2032—Means for opening the cover other than, or in addition to, a pull tab by peeling or tearing the cover from the container
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/18—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient
- B65D81/20—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas
- B65D81/2069—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas in a special atmosphere
- B65D81/2076—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas in a special atmosphere in an at least partially rigid container
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/24—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants
- B65D81/26—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators
- B65D81/266—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators for absorbing gases, e.g. oxygen absorbers or desiccants
- B65D81/268—Adaptations for preventing deterioration or decay of contents; Applications to the container or packaging material of food preservatives, fungicides, pesticides or animal repellants with provision for draining away, or absorbing, or removing by ventilation, fluids, e.g. exuded by contents; Applications of corrosion inhibitors or desiccators for absorbing gases, e.g. oxygen absorbers or desiccants the absorber being enclosed in a small pack, e.g. bag, included in the package
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B25/00—Packaging other articles presenting special problems
- B65B25/06—Packaging slices or specially-shaped pieces of meat, cheese, or other plastic or tacky products
- B65B25/065—Packaging slices or specially-shaped pieces of meat, cheese, or other plastic or tacky products of meat
- B65B25/067—Packaging slices or specially-shaped pieces of meat, cheese, or other plastic or tacky products of meat combined with its conservation
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2203/00—Decoration means, markings, information elements, contents indicators
- B65D2203/02—Labels
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D2565/00—Wrappers or flexible covers; Packaging materials of special type or form
- B65D2565/38—Packaging materials of special type or form
- B65D2565/381—Details of packaging materials of special type or form
- B65D2565/388—Materials used for their gas-permeability
Definitions
- the invention relates to vacuum sealed packaging using film layers of differing gas permeabilities to control the internal gas composition of the package.
- the invention includes both a new product package and a new packaging method. This invention is applicable in all packaging situations, but is most applicable to packaging perishable items, such as meat.
- Vacuum sealed packaging is known in the industry as a superior method for preserving items during shipping and display. Vacuum sealed packaging allows a supplier to control the internal gas composition of the package and stabilize the item during shipping. These advantages protect and preserve an item, increasing the items' shelf life and eye-appeal to consumers.
- the dual-layer laminate had a gas impermeable top layer that prevented oxygen from entering the packaging during shipment. Once the vacuum sealed meat reached the retailer, the top layer was peeled off to expose the gas permeable bottom layer. This bottom layer allowed air to pass through, thereby exposing the meat to oxygen and turning the meat red.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a product package according to the present invention
- FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the product package of FIG. 1 with a cover assembly exploded from a container base;
- FIG. 3 is a top view of an alternative product package according to the present invention and utilizing a labeling laminate cover;
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the product package of FIG. 3 taken along line 4 - 4 ;
- FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the product package of FIG. 3 taken along line 5 - 5 ;
- FIG. 6 is a fragmentary, exploded, cross-sectional view of the laminate of FIG. 3.
- the cover assembly includes a bottom film layer and a top film layer positioned over the bottom film layer.
- a label is positioned between the top and bottom film layers.
- the bottom film layer is gas permeable
- the top film layer is gas impermeable.
- the packaged item is protected during shipment from decay by the top film layer, but during display and after removal of the top film layer, the label is exposed to the consumer. Further, the packaged item is exposed to desirable gases transmitted through the bottom layer to enhance the packaged item's color for display. To further protect the packaged item during shipment by removing any oxygen left after packaging, an oxygen absorber is adhered to the inner side of the top layer and rests on the display layer.
- the labeling cover assembly is used to complete a package according to the present invention.
- the cover assembly is used to cover and close the open top of a container base containing a packaged item.
- the container base is made from an insulated material, and the top layer extends beyond the perimeter of the container base, so that the top layer can be easily peeled from the display layer, label, and container.
- the labeling cover assembly according to the present invention is also used in methods for packaging and displaying items.
- the method includes introduction of a packaged item into the container base, closing the container base with the bottom film layer, positioning a label on the display layer, and placing the protective top film layer over the label and display layer.
- an oxygen absorber is positioned between the bottom layer and the top layer.
- the protective layer and oxygen absorber are removed from the package.
- the container base is closed with a tri-layer laminate, which includes the bottom film layer, label positioned on the bottom film layer, and a top film layer covering the label and bottom film layer.
- the constructed laminate is then used to close the container base.
- the tri-layer laminate or the cover assembly is closed over an item placed on a plastic substrate.
- the tri-layer laminate includes the bottom film layer, a label positioned on the bottom film layer, and a top film layer covering the label and bottom film layer.
- the tri-layer laminate is used to cover and enclose a packaged item positioned on the plastic substrate.
- FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a product package 10 assembled according to an embodiment of the present invention.
- the product package 10 includes a container base 20 and a labeling cover assembly 26 .
- the cover assembly is attached to the base 20 to seal and protect a perishable item 36 in the package.
- the container base 20 is generally rigid and is made from insulating materials, including Styrofoam, Polyethylene, PVC and other formable materials.
- the container base is generally rigid in that it substantially holds its shape under the application of minimal external forces.
- the container base is flexible.
- the container base 20 has a rectangular shape with a generally flat bottom 11 (FIG. 2), a plurality of sidewalls 13 , four sidewalls in one embodiment, extending up from the bottom, and a top perimeter lip 18 extending outwardly from the upper perimeter of the four sidewalls 13 .
- the four sidewalls 13 extend up from the bottom of the container base 20 at a slight outward angle.
- the container lip 18 has a depressed outer ridge 16 formed by dropping down the outermost portion of the container lip 18 .
- the corners of the container lip 18 are rounded and the interior of the container base 20 is hollow for receiving the packaged item 36 .
- the cover assembly 26 is comprised of a bottom display layer 34 , a label 32 , an oxygen absorber 30 , and a top protective layer 28 .
- the bottom display layer 34 is a transparent, gas permeable film layer.
- the display layer is flexible in that it easily deforms under the application of minimal external forces, and it is gas permeable in that it permits the transmission of oxygen.
- the label 32 which is adhered to an outer side of the top layer, can include marketing and scale information about the perishable item 36 and can include freshness and pricing details if desired.
- the oxygen absorber 30 or oxygen scavenger is adhered to an inner side of the protective layer 28 .
- the oxygen absorber 30 is a small packet enclosing a material that absorbs oxygen.
- the protective layer 28 is a transparent, gas impermeable film layer.
- the protective layer is flexible and is gas impermeable in that it inhibits the transmission of oxygen and microbes. In one embodiment, the protective layer substantially prohibits the transmission of oxygen, and if desired, the protective layer is opaque.
- the cover assembly 26 is constructed, as shown in FIG. 2, by placing the display layer 34 on the container lip 18 .
- the label 32 is placed onto the display layer 34 and the oxygen absorber 30 is spaced from the label 32 on the display layer 34 .
- the top protective layer 28 is positioned over the oxygen absorber 30 , the label 32 , and the display layer 34 . When the top protective layer 28 is positioned over the label and oxygen absorber, it may or may not contact the display layer 34 .
- the display layer can be attached to the container lip, the interior face of the sidewalls 13 , or both.
- the display layer is made of a shrink material that reduces in size when heated and attached to the container base 20 .
- the display layer shrinks so that it does not extend to the edge of the container lip 18 .
- the shrinking process also pulls the display layer taut over the top of the container base 20 .
- the top layer can be attached to the container either on top of the display layer on the container lip 18 or attached directly to the container lip, without contacting the display layer.
- the top layer 28 extends beyond the container lip over at least part of its perimeter. In another embodiment, the top layer 28 extends beyond the container lip 18 around its entire top layer perimeter.
- the bottom layer is heat sealed onto the container's lip 18 , and the protective layer 28 is attached at the perimeter lip 18 with an adhesive strong enough to keep the protective layer 28 on the package during shipping but weak enough to allow the protective layer 28 to be peeled off the package 10 without removing the display layer 34 or the label 32 .
- the display layer and the top layer have space between them that is filled with gas which is atmospheric gas or air in one embodiment.
- the gas is an inert preservative gas.
- the label is attached to the bottom layer, so that it stays attached to the bottom layer when the top layer is removed.
- the label is attached with an adhesive. Because the oxygen absorber is adhered to the protective layer 28 , the oxygen absorber 30 will be automatically discarded when the protective layer 28 is removed.
- the perishable item 36 is placed inside the container base 20 , and the bottom layer 34 is heat sealed to the lip 18 .
- the container is then weighed, and the label is printed.
- the printed label 32 is then attached to the bottom layer 34 , and the top layer, which is slightly longer and wider than the lip 18 is attached to the bottom layer at least at the container's lip 18 .
- the container base 20 is closed with the cover assembly 26 , so that the top layer extends slightly beyond the container lip 18 perimeter on all four sides.
- a preserving gas or a refrigerant gas is introduced into the base 20 .
- the oxygen absorber removes any oxygen remaining in the package after the protective layer is adhered to the display layer.
- the oxygen absorber provides extra protection from decay for perishable items such as meat including beef and poultry.
- the container base 20 and the cover assembly 26 are used in a packaging and display method.
- a perishable item 36 beef in one embodiment, is introduced into a container base 20 .
- the cover assembly 26 is heat sealed onto the container lip 18 while the air around the perishable item 36 inside the container base 20 is evacuated.
- the container base 20 is back-filled with an inert gas, preferably Nitrogen, as a preservative.
- the cover assembly is heat sealed to the container lip 18 around the entire perimeter of the container base 20 . In the absence of 02 the beef turns blue.
- the product package 10 After the product package 10 is shipped to its intended destination, it is prepared for display.
- the top protective layer 28 of the cover assembly 26 is removed by peeling from the rest of the cover assembly 26 , namely the label 32 and the bottom display layer 34 .
- the oxygen absorber 30 is discarded.
- the removal of the gas impermeable protective layer 28 and the oxygen absorber 30 allows oxygen to reach the display layer 34 .
- the display layer 34 permits the newly present oxygen to pass through and enter the space in the container base 20 .
- the oxygen infuses into the beef, causing the meat tissue to take up the oxygen and change from a bluish color to a more consumer-friendly red color.
- the present invention places the label, either a marketing label or a scale label, between the display and protective layers during packaging.
- the label contains information including weight, price, advertising, promotions, and freshness dates. If desired, other information is added to the label.
- An alternative product package 12 including a substrate layer 38 and a laminate 40 as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4.
- the substrate layer 38 can be made from any type of plastic.
- the laminate as shown in FIG. 6 comprises a bottom, gas permeable film layer 46 , a middle label layer 44 , and a top, gas impermeable film layer 42 .
- the label layer 44 is adhered to the bottom film layer 46 .
- the perimeter of the top film layer 42 is adhered over the label layer 44 to the bottom film layer 46 .
- the top film layer 42 is adhered strong enough to remain on the bottom film layer 46 during shipping, but weak enough that it can be removed by peeling from the bottom layer 46 .
- the oxygen absorber 30 (FIG. 5) is also positioned between the top and bottom layers, and the absorber 30 is adhered to the top layer 46 .
- a method for creating product package 12 includes forming a substrate layer 38 and a laminate 40 .
- the item 36 is placed in the middle of a rectangular piece of the substrate layer 38 .
- a piece of laminate 40 slightly larger than the substrate layer 38 piece, is draped over the item 36 and the substrate layer 38 .
- the edges of the substrate layer 38 and the laminate 40 are heat sealed together on all four sides, as the air around the item 36 is evacuated.
- the top, gas impermeable layer is peeled off the product package 12 , leaving the middle label layer and the bottom gas permeable layer remaining on the product package 12 .
- the laminate is used to form a bag, which is vacuum heat sealed along its open side with product inside. Further, the laminate 40 is used with the container base 20 if desired.
- the packaged items are weighed and the labels printed. The printed labels are then formed into the laminate. The printed labels are then applied to the corresponding item.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Food Science & Technology (AREA)
- Packages (AREA)
Abstract
A product package (10) having multi-layer labeling cover assembly (26), having a container base (20), a display layer (34), a label (32), an oxygen absorber (30) and a protective layer (28), is utilized to provide a product package that can have the top protective layer of the cover assembly removed for display purposes without requiring the package to be relabeled. The container base has a plurality of sidewalls (13) extending upwards from the container base, ending in a perimeter lip (18) around the top of the sidewalls. The display film layer is attached to the perimeter lip to close the container. The label and oxygen absorber are positioned on the display layer. A protective film layer is placed over the label and oxygen absorber and adhered to the display layer around the perimeter of the container.
Description
- The invention relates to vacuum sealed packaging using film layers of differing gas permeabilities to control the internal gas composition of the package. The invention includes both a new product package and a new packaging method. This invention is applicable in all packaging situations, but is most applicable to packaging perishable items, such as meat.
- Vacuum sealed packaging is known in the industry as a superior method for preserving items during shipping and display. Vacuum sealed packaging allows a supplier to control the internal gas composition of the package and stabilize the item during shipping. These advantages protect and preserve an item, increasing the items' shelf life and eye-appeal to consumers.
- There are various forms of vacuum sealed packaging, and vacuum sealing is particularly popular for packaging perishable items. Previous packages used a rigid, preformed base for holding meat, fish or produce, with a plastic layer closing the top of the container base. While the layer was heat sealed onto the container, gas could be evacuated from the container around the perishable item. In some instances, the evacuated gas would be replaced with a more preferable inert gas, for example Nitrogen, which helped preserve the perishable item.
- For some items, packagers needed a preservative gas in the packaging during shipment and a different gas when the package was on display. For example, when packaging red meat, the presence of oxygen during shipping would spoil the meat, but the absence of oxygen during presentation would make the meat appear blue and unappetizing to consumers. The oxygen content of the packaging had to be manipulated to provide both a long shelf life and a consumer preferred presentation. The answer to this oxygen dilemma was a dual-layer laminate with differing gas permeabilities.
- The dual-layer laminate had a gas impermeable top layer that prevented oxygen from entering the packaging during shipment. Once the vacuum sealed meat reached the retailer, the top layer was peeled off to expose the gas permeable bottom layer. This bottom layer allowed air to pass through, thereby exposing the meat to oxygen and turning the meat red.
- While the dual film layer laminate is a definite advantage and improvement over previous perishable item containers, it has a significant drawback for retailers. Labels for the item are placed on the packages' top layers when they leave the supplier's packaging plant. When the retailer removes the top layer to expose the meat to oxygen, the label is also removed. The packages must be re-labeled before they can be set out for consumers. Re-labeling requires extra expense and extra time on the part of the retailer.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a product package according to the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the product package of FIG. 1 with a cover assembly exploded from a container base;
- FIG. 3 is a top view of an alternative product package according to the present invention and utilizing a labeling laminate cover;
- FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the product package of FIG. 3 taken along line4-4;
- FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view of the product package of FIG. 3 taken along line5-5; and
- FIG. 6 is a fragmentary, exploded, cross-sectional view of the laminate of FIG. 3.
- There is, therefore, provided in the practice of the invention a novel labeling cover assembly, which reduces re-labeling by retailers while protecting a packaged product from decay and other damage. The cover assembly includes a bottom film layer and a top film layer positioned over the bottom film layer. A label is positioned between the top and bottom film layers.
- In one embodiment, the bottom film layer is gas permeable, and the top film layer is gas impermeable. Thus, the packaged item is protected during shipment from decay by the top film layer, but during display and after removal of the top film layer, the label is exposed to the consumer. Further, the packaged item is exposed to desirable gases transmitted through the bottom layer to enhance the packaged item's color for display. To further protect the packaged item during shipment by removing any oxygen left after packaging, an oxygen absorber is adhered to the inner side of the top layer and rests on the display layer.
- The labeling cover assembly is used to complete a package according to the present invention. The cover assembly is used to cover and close the open top of a container base containing a packaged item.
- In one embodiment, the container base is made from an insulated material, and the top layer extends beyond the perimeter of the container base, so that the top layer can be easily peeled from the display layer, label, and container.
- The labeling cover assembly according to the present invention is also used in methods for packaging and displaying items. The method includes introduction of a packaged item into the container base, closing the container base with the bottom film layer, positioning a label on the display layer, and placing the protective top film layer over the label and display layer.
- In one embodiment, an oxygen absorber is positioned between the bottom layer and the top layer. For display, the protective layer and oxygen absorber are removed from the package.
- In an alternate embodiment, the container base is closed with a tri-layer laminate, which includes the bottom film layer, label positioned on the bottom film layer, and a top film layer covering the label and bottom film layer. In the method of assembly, the constructed laminate is then used to close the container base.
- In another embodiment, the tri-layer laminate or the cover assembly is closed over an item placed on a plastic substrate. Again, the tri-layer laminate includes the bottom film layer, a label positioned on the bottom film layer, and a top film layer covering the label and bottom film layer. In the method of assembly, the tri-layer laminate is used to cover and enclose a packaged item positioned on the plastic substrate.
- Accordingly, it is as an object of the present invention to provide an improved cover assembly for packaging items.
- It is a further object of the present invention to provide an improved laminate for packaging items.
- It is still a further object of the present invention to provide improved methods for packaging and displaying items.
- Referring to the drawings in greater detail, FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a
product package 10 assembled according to an embodiment of the present invention. Theproduct package 10 includes acontainer base 20 and alabeling cover assembly 26. The cover assembly is attached to thebase 20 to seal and protect aperishable item 36 in the package. - The
container base 20 is generally rigid and is made from insulating materials, including Styrofoam, Polyethylene, PVC and other formable materials. The container base is generally rigid in that it substantially holds its shape under the application of minimal external forces. In another embodiment, the container base is flexible. Thecontainer base 20 has a rectangular shape with a generally flat bottom 11 (FIG. 2), a plurality ofsidewalls 13, four sidewalls in one embodiment, extending up from the bottom, and atop perimeter lip 18 extending outwardly from the upper perimeter of the foursidewalls 13. The foursidewalls 13 extend up from the bottom of thecontainer base 20 at a slight outward angle. Thecontainer lip 18 has a depressedouter ridge 16 formed by dropping down the outermost portion of thecontainer lip 18. The corners of thecontainer lip 18 are rounded and the interior of thecontainer base 20 is hollow for receiving the packageditem 36. - In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the
cover assembly 26 is comprised of abottom display layer 34, alabel 32, an oxygen absorber 30, and a topprotective layer 28. Thebottom display layer 34 is a transparent, gas permeable film layer. The display layer is flexible in that it easily deforms under the application of minimal external forces, and it is gas permeable in that it permits the transmission of oxygen. Thelabel 32, which is adhered to an outer side of the top layer, can include marketing and scale information about theperishable item 36 and can include freshness and pricing details if desired. In one embodiment, theoxygen absorber 30 or oxygen scavenger is adhered to an inner side of theprotective layer 28. Theoxygen absorber 30 is a small packet enclosing a material that absorbs oxygen. Theprotective layer 28 is a transparent, gas impermeable film layer. The protective layer is flexible and is gas impermeable in that it inhibits the transmission of oxygen and microbes. In one embodiment, the protective layer substantially prohibits the transmission of oxygen, and if desired, the protective layer is opaque. - The
cover assembly 26 is constructed, as shown in FIG. 2, by placing thedisplay layer 34 on thecontainer lip 18. Thelabel 32 is placed onto thedisplay layer 34 and theoxygen absorber 30 is spaced from thelabel 32 on thedisplay layer 34. The topprotective layer 28 is positioned over theoxygen absorber 30, thelabel 32, and thedisplay layer 34. When the topprotective layer 28 is positioned over the label and oxygen absorber, it may or may not contact thedisplay layer 34. - The display layer can be attached to the container lip, the interior face of the
sidewalls 13, or both. The display layer is made of a shrink material that reduces in size when heated and attached to thecontainer base 20. In one embodiment, the display layer shrinks so that it does not extend to the edge of thecontainer lip 18. The shrinking process also pulls the display layer taut over the top of thecontainer base 20. The top layer can be attached to the container either on top of the display layer on thecontainer lip 18 or attached directly to the container lip, without contacting the display layer. In one embodiment, thetop layer 28 extends beyond the container lip over at least part of its perimeter. In another embodiment, thetop layer 28 extends beyond thecontainer lip 18 around its entire top layer perimeter. The bottom layer is heat sealed onto the container'slip 18, and theprotective layer 28 is attached at theperimeter lip 18 with an adhesive strong enough to keep theprotective layer 28 on the package during shipping but weak enough to allow theprotective layer 28 to be peeled off thepackage 10 without removing thedisplay layer 34 or thelabel 32. In one embodiment, the display layer and the top layer have space between them that is filled with gas which is atmospheric gas or air in one embodiment. In another embodiment, the gas is an inert preservative gas. The label is attached to the bottom layer, so that it stays attached to the bottom layer when the top layer is removed. In one embodiment, the label is attached with an adhesive. Because the oxygen absorber is adhered to theprotective layer 28, theoxygen absorber 30 will be automatically discarded when theprotective layer 28 is removed. - To complete a
package 10, theperishable item 36 is placed inside thecontainer base 20, and thebottom layer 34 is heat sealed to thelip 18. The container is then weighed, and the label is printed. The printedlabel 32 is then attached to thebottom layer 34, and the top layer, which is slightly longer and wider than thelip 18 is attached to the bottom layer at least at the container'slip 18. Thus, thecontainer base 20 is closed with thecover assembly 26, so that the top layer extends slightly beyond thecontainer lip 18 perimeter on all four sides. If desired air is removed from thecontainer base 20 as the display layer is heat sealed, and in one embodiment, a preserving gas or a refrigerant gas is introduced into thebase 20. The oxygen absorber removes any oxygen remaining in the package after the protective layer is adhered to the display layer. Thus, the oxygen absorber provides extra protection from decay for perishable items such as meat including beef and poultry. - The
container base 20 and thecover assembly 26 are used in a packaging and display method. Aperishable item 36, beef in one embodiment, is introduced into acontainer base 20. Thecover assembly 26 is heat sealed onto thecontainer lip 18 while the air around theperishable item 36 inside thecontainer base 20 is evacuated. Thecontainer base 20 is back-filled with an inert gas, preferably Nitrogen, as a preservative. The cover assembly is heat sealed to thecontainer lip 18 around the entire perimeter of thecontainer base 20. In the absence of 02 the beef turns blue. - After the
product package 10 is shipped to its intended destination, it is prepared for display. The topprotective layer 28 of thecover assembly 26 is removed by peeling from the rest of thecover assembly 26, namely thelabel 32 and thebottom display layer 34. Theoxygen absorber 30 is discarded. The removal of the gas impermeableprotective layer 28 and theoxygen absorber 30 allows oxygen to reach thedisplay layer 34. Thedisplay layer 34 permits the newly present oxygen to pass through and enter the space in thecontainer base 20. The oxygen infuses into the beef, causing the meat tissue to take up the oxygen and change from a bluish color to a more consumer-friendly red color. - When the consumer purchases the packaged meat, and wishes to take the meat out of the package, the remaining portion of the
cover assembly 26 is removed by removing thedisplay layer 34 from thecontainer base 20. Thebottom display layer 34 and thelabel 32 are removed when the consumer peels off thebottom display layer 34. Thus, the present invention places the label, either a marketing label or a scale label, between the display and protective layers during packaging. The label contains information including weight, price, advertising, promotions, and freshness dates. If desired, other information is added to the label. This innovation eliminates the need for a re-labeling step when the retailer removes the protective layer before displaying the product. - An
alternative product package 12 including asubstrate layer 38 and a laminate 40 as illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4. Thesubstrate layer 38 can be made from any type of plastic. The laminate as shown in FIG. 6 comprises a bottom, gaspermeable film layer 46, amiddle label layer 44, and a top, gasimpermeable film layer 42. As in the cover assembly, thelabel layer 44 is adhered to thebottom film layer 46. The perimeter of thetop film layer 42 is adhered over thelabel layer 44 to thebottom film layer 46. Thetop film layer 42 is adhered strong enough to remain on thebottom film layer 46 during shipping, but weak enough that it can be removed by peeling from thebottom layer 46. In one embodiment, the oxygen absorber 30 (FIG. 5) is also positioned between the top and bottom layers, and theabsorber 30 is adhered to thetop layer 46. - A method for creating
product package 12 includes forming asubstrate layer 38 and a laminate 40. Theitem 36 is placed in the middle of a rectangular piece of thesubstrate layer 38. A piece oflaminate 40, slightly larger than thesubstrate layer 38 piece, is draped over theitem 36 and thesubstrate layer 38. The edges of thesubstrate layer 38 and the laminate 40 are heat sealed together on all four sides, as the air around theitem 36 is evacuated. - Once the
product package 12 is shipped to its intended destination, the top, gas impermeable layer is peeled off theproduct package 12, leaving the middle label layer and the bottom gas permeable layer remaining on theproduct package 12. If desired, the laminate is used to form a bag, which is vacuum heat sealed along its open side with product inside. Further, the laminate 40 is used with thecontainer base 20 if desired. When forming the laminate, the packaged items are weighed and the labels printed. The printed labels are then formed into the laminate. The printed labels are then applied to the corresponding item. - Thus, a product package is disclosed which utilizes a multi-layer labeling cover assembly to vacuum seal packages with a label that does not have to be replaced for display purposes. While preferred embodiments and particular applications of this invention have been shown and described, it is apparent to those skilled in the art that many other modifications and applications of this invention are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, this invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described, and the invention is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims. Though some of the features of the invention may be claimed in dependency, each feature has merit if used independently.
Claims (28)
1. A labeling cover assembly, comprising:
a bottom film layer,
a label located on top of the bottom film layer, and
a top film layer positioned over the label.
2. The device according to claim 1 wherein the bottom film layer comprises a gas permeable bottom film layer.
3. The device according to claim 1 wherein the top film layer is attached to the bottom film layer.
4. The device according to claim 1 wherein the top film layer comprises a gas impermeable top film layer.
5. The device according to claim 1 wherein the top film layer comprises a top film layer removable by peeling from the bottom layer and label.
6. The device according to claim 1 wherein the label is adhered to the outer side of the bottom film layer.
7. A package comprising:
a container base;
a cover assembly operable to close the container base, the cover base including:
a display layer,
a label placed on top of the display layer, and
a protective layer placed on top of the label.
8. The device according to claim 7 wherein the display layer comprises a gas permeable display layer.
9. The device according to claim 7 wherein the protective layer comprises a gas impermeable protective layer.
10. The device according to claim 7 wherein the protective layer comprises a protective layer removable by peeling from the display layer and label.
11. The device according to claim 7 wherein an oxygen absorber is placed above the display layer and label.
12. The device according to claim 11 wherein the oxygen absorber is adhered to the inner side of the protective layer.
13. A method for packaging items, including:
introducing an item into a container base,
closing the container base with a tri-layer labeling laminate.
14. The method according to claim 13 wherein closing the container base comprises heat sealing the laminate to the top of the container.
15. The method according to claim 13 wherein the tri-layer laminate comprises:
a bottom film layer,
a top film layer; and
a middle label positioned between the top and bottom film layers
16. The method according to claim 13 wherein an inert gas is back filled into the container after the air is evacuated.
17. The method according to claim 13 wherein the tri-layer laminate comprises:
a top layer that is gas impermeable, and
a bottom layer that is gas permeable.
18. A method for packaging items using vacuum sealing, including:
introducing an item into a container base,
closing the container base with a display layer,
positioning a label on the display layer,
placing a protective layer over the label.
19. The method according to claim 18 wherein closing the container base comprises heat sealing the display layer to the top of the container.
20. The method according to claim 18 wherein the display layer comprises a gas permeable display layer.
21. The method according to claim 18 wherein the protective layer comprises a gas impermeable protective layer.
22. The method according to claim 18 further comprising the protective layer for display.
23. The method according to claim 18 wherein positioning the label on the display layer comprises printing the label.
24. The method according to claim 18 further comprising positioning an oxygen absorber between the display layer and the protective layer, and removing the protective layer and the oxygen absorber for display.
25. A multi-layer laminate comprising:
a display layer;
a label positioned on the display layer; and
a protective layer covering the label.
26. The laminate according to claim 25 further comprising an oxygen absorber positioned between the display layer and the protective layer.
27. A package comprising:
a container base having a bottom, a plurality of side walls, and a perimeter;
a cover assembly operable to close the container base, the cover assembly including:
a gas permeable display layer,
a label positioned on top of the display layer,
an oxygen absorber positioned on the display layer, and
a gas impermeable protective layer adhered to the outer side of the display layer around the perimeter of the container base, and wherein the protective layer is removable by peeling from the display layer and label.
28. A method for packaging items using vacuum sealing, including:
closing the container base with a gas permeable display layer by heat sealing,
printing a label,
placing the label on the display layer,
placing an oxygen absorber on the display layer next to the label,
placing a gas impermeable protective layer over the label and oxygen absorber,
removing the protective layer by peeling for display, and
removing the oxygen absorber for display.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/123,276 US20030192893A1 (en) | 2002-04-15 | 2002-04-15 | Product package having multi-layer labeling cover assembly |
AU2003218391A AU2003218391A1 (en) | 2002-04-15 | 2003-03-25 | Package with multi-layer labeling cover |
PCT/US2003/009120 WO2003089307A1 (en) | 2002-04-15 | 2003-03-25 | Package with multi-layer labeling cover |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/123,276 US20030192893A1 (en) | 2002-04-15 | 2002-04-15 | Product package having multi-layer labeling cover assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20030192893A1 true US20030192893A1 (en) | 2003-10-16 |
Family
ID=28790689
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/123,276 Abandoned US20030192893A1 (en) | 2002-04-15 | 2002-04-15 | Product package having multi-layer labeling cover assembly |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20030192893A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003218391A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2003089307A1 (en) |
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070256945A1 (en) * | 2003-07-18 | 2007-11-08 | John Kennedy | Suture packaging |
US20080135608A1 (en) * | 2001-11-23 | 2008-06-12 | De La Rue International Limited | Depositing items of value |
US20110240641A1 (en) * | 2010-04-01 | 2011-10-06 | Edward Huels | Heat Sealing Thru Food Contaminants |
US8136656B2 (en) | 2003-07-18 | 2012-03-20 | Tyco Healthcare Group Lp | Suture packaging |
WO2013121176A1 (en) * | 2012-02-17 | 2013-08-22 | Hh Associates Limited | Packaging container |
USD896634S1 (en) | 2019-01-29 | 2020-09-22 | Golden State Foods Corp. | Container |
USD896633S1 (en) | 2019-01-29 | 2020-09-22 | Golden State Foods Corp. | Container |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
KR101936851B1 (en) * | 2012-07-16 | 2019-01-11 | 한국과학기술연구원 | Pyrazolopyridine or indazole derivatives as protein kinase inhibitors |
JP5752311B1 (en) * | 2014-11-18 | 2015-07-22 | ユニ・チャーム株式会社 | Pet food packaging |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4055672A (en) * | 1972-04-10 | 1977-10-25 | Standard Packaging Corporation | Controlled atmosphere package |
US5759650A (en) * | 1994-12-22 | 1998-06-02 | Plicon | Bloomin lid controlled atmosphere package |
US5979653A (en) * | 1997-12-24 | 1999-11-09 | Cryovac, Inc. | Peel mechanism for peelable barrier film for vacuum skin packages and the like |
US6627273B2 (en) * | 2001-03-13 | 2003-09-30 | Cryovac, Inc. | Lidstock laminate |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5241149A (en) * | 1990-10-15 | 1993-08-31 | Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc. | Food packing body for heat and microwave treatment |
US5686126A (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 1997-11-11 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Dual web package having improved gaseous exchange |
US5919547A (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 1999-07-06 | Cryovac, Inc. | Laminate having a coextruded, multilayer film which delaminates and package made therefrom |
US5718101A (en) * | 1996-06-04 | 1998-02-17 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Method and apparatus for packaging a product in a dual-lid package |
US5916615A (en) * | 1997-06-18 | 1999-06-29 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Case-ready packages having smooth, gas-permeable substrates on the bottoms thereof to reduce or prevent discoloration when placed in a stack |
US6032800A (en) * | 1998-05-14 | 2000-03-07 | Cryovac, Inc. | Laminate and package made therefrom |
-
2002
- 2002-04-15 US US10/123,276 patent/US20030192893A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2003
- 2003-03-25 WO PCT/US2003/009120 patent/WO2003089307A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2003-03-25 AU AU2003218391A patent/AU2003218391A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4055672A (en) * | 1972-04-10 | 1977-10-25 | Standard Packaging Corporation | Controlled atmosphere package |
US5759650A (en) * | 1994-12-22 | 1998-06-02 | Plicon | Bloomin lid controlled atmosphere package |
US5979653A (en) * | 1997-12-24 | 1999-11-09 | Cryovac, Inc. | Peel mechanism for peelable barrier film for vacuum skin packages and the like |
US6627273B2 (en) * | 2001-03-13 | 2003-09-30 | Cryovac, Inc. | Lidstock laminate |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080135608A1 (en) * | 2001-11-23 | 2008-06-12 | De La Rue International Limited | Depositing items of value |
US7677443B2 (en) * | 2001-11-23 | 2010-03-16 | De La Rue International Limited | Depositing items of value |
US20070256945A1 (en) * | 2003-07-18 | 2007-11-08 | John Kennedy | Suture packaging |
US8136656B2 (en) | 2003-07-18 | 2012-03-20 | Tyco Healthcare Group Lp | Suture packaging |
US8746445B2 (en) | 2003-07-18 | 2014-06-10 | Covidien Lp | Suture packaging |
US20110240641A1 (en) * | 2010-04-01 | 2011-10-06 | Edward Huels | Heat Sealing Thru Food Contaminants |
US9073681B2 (en) * | 2010-04-01 | 2015-07-07 | Silgan Plastic Food Containers Corporation | Heat sealing thru food contaminants |
US9764863B2 (en) | 2010-04-01 | 2017-09-19 | Silgan Plastic Food Containers Corporation | Heat sealing thru food contaminants |
WO2013121176A1 (en) * | 2012-02-17 | 2013-08-22 | Hh Associates Limited | Packaging container |
USD896634S1 (en) | 2019-01-29 | 2020-09-22 | Golden State Foods Corp. | Container |
USD896633S1 (en) | 2019-01-29 | 2020-09-22 | Golden State Foods Corp. | Container |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU2003218391A1 (en) | 2003-11-03 |
WO2003089307A1 (en) | 2003-10-30 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US5334405A (en) | Method of packaging food product | |
EP0316329B1 (en) | Packaging | |
CA2230007C (en) | Fresh meat packaging | |
CA1307495C (en) | Sealed internal package label | |
EP0899209B1 (en) | Package for food product and method for packaging it | |
US5591468A (en) | Method of shrinking film to apply lidstock and package made therefrom | |
US4840271A (en) | Improved thermoplastic skin packing means | |
EP0830297B1 (en) | Controlled atmosphere package with double cover | |
US6051263A (en) | Ventable food package | |
JPH05500197A (en) | Methods and equipment for packaging perishable products | |
US20030192893A1 (en) | Product package having multi-layer labeling cover assembly | |
US5217117A (en) | Plant packing container for retaining plant freshness | |
US6015583A (en) | Dual web package having labeling means | |
US20150056342A1 (en) | Package With Ridged Dome And Methods Of Making And Using The Same | |
CA2047087A1 (en) | Modified atmosphere pack | |
AU693103B2 (en) | Peelable barrier overwrap package | |
MXPA96002197A (en) | Double tray pack, double track that has better gaseous exchange | |
JPH0418271A (en) | Raw meat packaged body and raw meat packaging material to be used for packaged body and color tone control method for raw meat | |
MXPA97009230A (en) | Method to pick a film to apply a cover and empa | |
CA2291604A1 (en) | Display packaging for fruits or vegetables | |
CA2229768A1 (en) | Skin package and method of production |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: VC999 PACKAGING SYSTEMS, INC., MISSOURI Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:WEDER, SILVIO;REEL/FRAME:012823/0108 Effective date: 20020415 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |