WO2019060630A1 - Ensemble de conditionnement de paquets multiples - Google Patents

Ensemble de conditionnement de paquets multiples Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019060630A1
WO2019060630A1 PCT/US2018/052075 US2018052075W WO2019060630A1 WO 2019060630 A1 WO2019060630 A1 WO 2019060630A1 US 2018052075 W US2018052075 W US 2018052075W WO 2019060630 A1 WO2019060630 A1 WO 2019060630A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
film
packaging assembly
containers
tensile strength
tear line
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2018/052075
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Thomas R. Lee
Scott Douglas Howells
Jeffrey Graves
Original Assignee
Coveris Holding Corp.
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Coveris Holding Corp. filed Critical Coveris Holding Corp.
Publication of WO2019060630A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019060630A1/fr

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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
    • B65D71/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material
    • B65D71/06—Packaging elements holding or encircling completely or almost completely the bundle of articles, e.g. wrappers
    • B65D71/08—Wrappers shrunk by heat or under tension, e.g. stretch films or films tensioned by compressed articles
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/527—Tear-lines for separating a package into individual packages
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/54—Cards, coupons, or other inserts or accessories
    • B65D75/56—Handles or other suspension means
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
    • B65D75/5827—Tear-lines provided in a wall portion

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates generally to multipack packaging assemblies, and more particularly to packaging assemblies that include a plurality of containers retained by a film.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a packaging assembly
  • FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the packaging assembly of FIG. 1 , depicting a plurality of containers in phantom;
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the packaging assembly of FIG. 1 , depicting the packaging assembly after the removal of a plurality of containers and a segment or portion of the assembly;
  • FIG. 4 is a plan view of the packaging assembly of FIGS. 1 and 2;
  • FIG. 5 is cross-sectional view of the packaging assembly of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 5-5 in FIG. 4;
  • FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the packaging assembly of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 6A-6A in FIG. 4;
  • FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the packaging assembly of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 6A-6A in FIG. 4;
  • FIG. 7 is a plan view of another embodiment of a packaging assembly
  • FIG. 8 is a plan view of another embodiment of a packaging assembly
  • FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a packaging assembly.
  • FIG. 10 is a plan view of another embodiment of a packaging assembly.
  • FIGS. 1 -2 depict an embodiment of a packaging assembly 100, according to the present disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the packaging assembly 100; and FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the packaging assembly 100, depicting a plurality of containers 1 10 in phantom. As shown in FIGS. 1 -2, the packaging assembly 100 comprises a plurality of containers 1 10 and a film 120. The packaging assembly 100 further comprises one or more tear lines 130. In some embodiments, the packaging assembly 100 further comprises a handle 140. In other embodiments, no handle 140 is used.
  • the film 120 is configured to retain the plurality of containers 1 10 within the packaging assembly 100.
  • the film 120 retains the plurality of containers 1 10 in a substantially fixed position within the packaging assembly 100.
  • the plurality of containers 1 10 can be retained by the film 120 such that they are not free to move about or exit the interior region 122 of the packaging assembly 100.
  • the packaging assembly 100 can be referred to as a multipack packaging assembly 100.
  • the film 120 can retain the plurality of containers 1 10 in various ways. For example, in some embodiments, the film 120 is wrapped or otherwise disposed around the plurality of containers 1 10. In other embodiments, the film 120 is wrapped or otherwise disposed around at least a portion of the plurality of containers 1 10. Further, in some embodiments, the film 120 is shrink wrapped around the plurality of containers 1 10. For example, the film 120 can be wrapped or otherwise disposed around the plurality of containers 1 10, and then, using any suitable shrink wrap process and equipment, the film 120 can be made to shrink around the plurality of containers 1 10.
  • shrinking the film 120 around the plurality of containers 1 10 can cause the film 120 to substantially conform to the shape of the plurality of containers 1 10, minimizing the amount of excess space within the packaging assembly 100.
  • the film 120 comprises plastic and/or other polymeric materials.
  • Exemplary plastic and/or polymeric materials that can be used include, but are not limited to, polyolefin polymers and copolymers, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymers and copolymers, polyethylene polymers and copolymers, polypropylene polymers and copolymers, and mixtures thereof.
  • the film 120 comprises one or more thermoplastic materials or resins.
  • the film 120 comprises a shrinkable film.
  • Various thicknesses of films 120 can also be used.
  • the thickness of the film 120 is between about 1 .5 mil and about 5 mil. In other embodiments, the thickness of the film is between about 2.0 mil and about 3.0 mil. Other thicknesses can also be used depending on the type of container 1 10 to be retained in the packaging assembly 100.
  • film 120 packaging material offers significant cost savings as compared to traditional paperboard packaging materials.
  • the cost of film 120 packaging materials can be up to 75% less than the cost of paperboard packaging materials.
  • Film 120 packaging materials are also advantageous when placing the packaging assembly 100 in a cooler or other environment with ice and/or water.
  • the film 120 disclosed herein is not substantially affected by ice or the water derived therefrom.
  • Other advantages of using film 120 packaging materials are also contemplated.
  • the packaging assembly 100 further comprises one or more tear lines 130.
  • the tear lines 130 are disposed in the machine direction of the film 120.
  • Various types of tear lines 130 can be used, including, but not limited to, scored tear lines and perforated tear lines.
  • the tear lines 130 can be laser scored or laser perforated tear lines.
  • Other mechanical means can also be used to create the scored or perforated tear lines, including blades or other implements.
  • Scored tear lines, including laser scored tear lines can extend partially through the film 120.
  • a laser, blade, or other implement can be used to create a taper, or channel, along a surface of the film 120.
  • Perforated tear lines can extend completely through the film 120.
  • a laser, blade, or other implement can be used to create a series of perforations that extend completely through the film 120. Perforations can also be referred to as holes or apertures.
  • the tear lines 130 can be disposed on the film 120 in one or more locations. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, for example, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed between adjacent containers 1 10 (e.g., between a first container and a second container). In further embodiments, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed between adjacent rows of containers 1 10 (e.g., between a first row of containers and a second row of containers). In yet other embodiments, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed in-line with or otherwise planar with one or more containers (e.g., in-line with or planar with the center region of one or more containers), as shown in FIG. 10.
  • the tear lines 130 are disposed around a perimeter of the film 120.
  • the tear lines 130 can substantially extend around a perimeter of the film 120 (i.e., about 360° around the perimeter).
  • the tear lines 130 can extend around a portion of the perimeter of the film 120.
  • the tear lines 130 can extend for about 120°, about 180°, about 240° (or more or less as desired) around a perimeter of the film 120.
  • the tear lines 130 can also extend continuously or discontinuously.
  • discontinuous tear lines 130 can include one or more tear lines 130 that are spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the film 120.
  • the tear lines 130 can facilitate removal of one or more containers 1 10 from the packaging assembly 100.
  • a user can puncture the film 120 (e.g., via insertion of one or more fingers) at a tear line 130.
  • the user can then grasp the one or more containers 1 10 to be removed (including the portion of the film 120 disposed around them), and pull them away from the remainder of the packaging assembly 100.
  • the film 120 is torn along the tear line 130 until the one or more containers 1 10 to be removed (including the portion of the film 120 disposed around them) are separated from the remainder of the packaging assembly 100.
  • FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of a portion of the packaging assembly 100 of FIG. 1 , depicting the packaging assembly 100 after the removal of one or more of containers 1 10 therefrom.
  • the film 120 has been torn along a first tear line 130a and one or more containers 1 10 (including the portion of the film 120 disposed around them) have been removed from the packaging assembly 100. Further, the film 120 has been torn along a substantially controlled path located at the tear line 130a. The remainder of the film 120 and packaging assembly 100 is left substantially unaffected.
  • one or more additional containers 1 10 can be removed from the packaging assembly 100 by tearing the film 120 along another tear line 130, such as tear line 130b or 130c.
  • tear line 130b or 130c another tear line 130
  • two containers 1 10 can be removed by grasping and tearing the film 120 at tear line 130b, while four containers 1 10 can be removed by grasping and tearing the film 120 at tear line 130c.
  • the user can thus remove any number of containers 1 10 at their discretion by grasping and tearing the film 120 at a desired location.
  • the film 120 can comprise printed indicia to indicate the location of the tear lines 130 if desired. It will also be appreciated that the removed containers 1 10 can also remain retained within the portion of the removed film 120. In such instances, the controlled tear along the tear line 130 does not substantially affect the removed film 120 or its ability to retain one or more containers 1 10.
  • the size or footprint of the packaging assembly 100 can be decreased by selectively removing the containers 1 10 from the packaging assembly 100 via tearing the film 120 along the tear lines 130.
  • This is advantageous in many ways.
  • traditional paperboard packaging remains the same size regardless of how many containers have been removed from the packaging. This can be inconvenient when there are only a few containers remaining within the packaging.
  • the packaging assemblies 100 disclosed herein become smaller as the containers 1 10 are removed.
  • a portion of the film 120 of the packaging assembly 100 can be torn and removed from the packaging assembly 100 along with the containers 1 10. The size of the remaining portion of the packaging assembly 100 can thus correspond to the number of containers 1 10 being retained therein.
  • the packaging assembly 100 can be divided along the tear lines 130 depending on the amount of containers 1 10 that are desired.
  • a packaging assembly 100 comprising six rows of containers 1 10 can be divided into halves or thirds, etc., as desired.
  • three rows of containers 1 10 can be separated from a six row packaging assembly 100 at the user's discretion. In such instances, the three rows that have been removed and the three rows that remain each comprise containers 1 10 being retained within a portion of the film 120.
  • FIG. 4 is a plan view of the packaging assembly 100 of FIGS. 1 -2.
  • the packaging assembly 100 comprises a plurality of containers 1 10 and a film 120.
  • the packaging assembly 100 further comprises one or more tear lines 130.
  • the packaging assembly 100 further comprises a handle 140.
  • the tear lines 130 are disposed between several of the containers 1 10.
  • a tear line 130d is disposed between a first container 1 10a and a second container 1 10b.
  • the first container 1 10a can be removed from the packaging assembly 100 by tearing the film 120 along the tear line 130d.
  • any number of containers 1 10 can be retained within the packaging assembly 1 10. Further, in some embodiments, the containers 1 10 can be arranged within the packaging assembly 100 in a predetermined format. For example, the containers 1 10 can be arranged in row and column format. In some embodiments, the containers 1 10 within the packaging assembly 100 can be arranged to form two or more rows 1 14 and one or more columns 1 12a, 1 12b. As shown in FIG. 4, for example, the containers 1 10 are arranged to form six rows 1 14 and two columns 1 12a, 1 12b. Arrangements of more or less rows 1 14 and/or more or less columns 1 12a, 1 12b are also contemplated.
  • the tear lines 130 can be disposed between rows 1 14 of containers 1 10.
  • a tear line 130d is disposed between a first row 1 14a of containers 1 10 and a second row 1 14b of containers 1 10.
  • the first row 1 14a of containers 1 10 can be removed from the packaging assembly 1 10 by tearing the film 120 along the tear line 130d.
  • a plurality of rows 1 14 can be removed simultaneously from the packaging assembly 100 by tearing the film 120 along any desired tear line 130.
  • three rows 1 14 of containers 1 10 (six containers 1 10) can be removed simultaneously by tearing the film 120 along the tear line 130e.
  • one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed between one or more columns of containers 1 10, such as columns 1 12a, 1 12b. In yet further embodiments, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed between one or more rows 1 14 of containers 1 10, and one or more columns of containers 1 10. In other embodiments, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed in-line with or planar with one or more containers 1 10 (as shown in FIG. 10 below).
  • the containers 1 10 can also be arranged within the packaging assembly 100 such that they stand upright. As can be appreciated, arranging the containers 1 10 in an upright configuration can provide increased stability to the packaging assembly 100, for example, when it is placed on a shelf. In other embodiments, the containers 1 10 can be arranged within the packaging assembly 100 such that they are disposed on their sides, if desired.
  • containers 1 10 can be packaged in the packaging assemblies 100 disclosed herein, including, but not limited to, beverage containers, food containers, and non-food containers.
  • the containers 1 10 can also be made of various materials, including metals and/or non-metals.
  • the containers 1 10 comprise one or more metals, including, but not limited to, steel, aluminum, tin, and combinations thereof.
  • Non- metal materials can also be used.
  • the containers 1 10 comprise one or more plastic and/or other polymeric materials.
  • the containers 1 10 comprise glass materials.
  • the containers 1 10 comprise one or more rigid materials.
  • the containers 1 10 can also be various shapes and/or sizes.
  • the containers 1 10 are substantially cylindrical in shape.
  • the containers 1 10 are shaped like traditional cans (e.g., beverage cans such as 12 oz. beverage cans, canned food, etc.).
  • the containers 1 10 are shaped like traditional bottles (water bottles, beverage bottles, etc.).
  • the containers 1 10 can be 2-liter bottles, 1 .5 liter bottles, or 20 oz. bottles, which can be commonly employed as beverage containers. Other sizes of bottles can also be used and packaged with the films 120 disclosed herein.
  • Other shaped containers 1 10, including both traditionally used shapes and non-traditionally used shapes, are also contemplated.
  • the tear lines 130 comprise laser scored tear lines, as illustrated in FIG. 5.
  • FIG. 5 is cross-sectional view of the packaging assembly 100 of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 5-5 in FIG. 4.
  • FIG. 5 depicts a portion of a tear line 130 disposed on the film 120.
  • the tear line 130 can comprise a laser scored tear line that extends through a first surface 124 (e.g., an exterior surface) of the film 120.
  • the tear line 130 can be described as a taper or a channel.
  • the tear line 130 extends only through a portion of the film 120 such that a second surface 126 (e.g., the interior surface) remains substantially unaffected.
  • the tear line 130 can extend all the way through the film 120.
  • the tear line 130 can comprise a series of perforations that can extend through the film 120.
  • the packaging assembly 100 can further comprise a handle 140.
  • the handle 140 can facilitate carrying the packaging assembly 100. Further, in some embodiments, one or more additional handles (e.g., a second handle, etc.) can be used if desired. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the handle 140 can further include printed indicia 141 and can be used for labeling purposes.
  • the handle 140 can be coupled to the film 120.
  • a first portion 142 of the handle 140 is coupled to a surface of the film 120 at a first location
  • a second portion 144 of the handle 140 is coupled to a surface of the film 120 at a second location.
  • a third portion 146 of the handle 140 extends outwardly from the packaging assembly 100 to facilitate grasping and carrying the packaging assembly 100.
  • the handle 140 can securely retain the packaging assembly 100 as it is being carried by the user.
  • the handle 140 can be coupled to the packaging assembly 100 at various locations.
  • the handle 140 is coupled to a longitudinal end 101 of the packaging assembly 100.
  • the handle 140 also extends from a side of the packaging assembly 100.
  • the printed indicia 141 can thus be clearly viewed when the packaging assembly 100 is placed on a shelf.
  • the packaging assembly 100 comprises a bulls-eye region (i.e., a region devoid of film 120) that may be formed during a shrink wrap process.
  • the absence of film 120 at the bulls-eye region can make it difficult to label the packaging assembly 100.
  • these difficulties can be overcome by placing a handle 140 comprising printed indicia 141 over the bulls-eye region, as shown in the illustrated embodiment.
  • a second handle can also be used.
  • a second handle can be coupled to the longitudinal end of the packaging assembly 100 that is opposite the longitudinal end 101 wherein the first handle 140 is coupled.
  • Coupling handles 140 to each longitudinal end of the packaging assembly 100 can be advantageous in many ways, including handling, packaging, or otherwise moving the packaging assembly 100.
  • a handle may optionally extend upward from the packaging assembly 100, for example, from a central region of the packaging assembly 100, if desired. Such a handle could be present alone or in combination with one or more handles placed at longitudinal ends of the packaging assembly 100.
  • FIGS. 6A and 6B depict cross-sectional views of various embodiments of the packaging assembly 100 of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 6A-6A in FIG. 4.
  • the handle 140, 240 can be coupled to the packaging assembly in various ways.
  • the handle 140 is directly adhered to the film 120.
  • the handle 140 can be heat sealed, or melted to the film 120.
  • the handle 240 is coupled to the film 220 via an adhesive 241 . Any suitable adhesive can be used.
  • FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment of a packaging assembly 300 that can resemble the packaging assembly 100 described above in certain respects. Accordingly, like features are designated with like reference numerals, with the leading digits incremented to "3." Relevant disclosure set forth above regarding similarly identified features thus may not be repeated hereafter. Moreover, specific features of the packaging assembly 300 may not be shown or identified by a reference numeral in the drawings or specifically discussed in the written description that follows. However, such features may clearly be the same, or substantially the same, as features depicted in other embodiments and/or described with respect to such embodiments. Accordingly, the relevant descriptions of such features apply equally to the features of the packaging assembly 300.
  • the packaging assembly 300 comprises a plurality of containers 310 and a film 320.
  • the packaging assembly 300 further comprises one or more tear lines 330.
  • the tear lines 330 are a series of discontinuous tear lines 330.
  • the tear lines 330 can be scored tear lines, or perforated tear lines.
  • the scores or perforations can be formed via a laser, or can be cut with a blade or other implement. Other suitable methods of forming scores or perforations can also be employed.
  • the packaging assembly 300 comprises tear lines 330 that exhibit a particular tensile strength.
  • the packaging assembly 300 can comprise tear lines 330 that exhibit a tensile strength of between about 2.5 lbs/in 2 and about 5.5 lbs/in 2 , between about 3.0 lbs/in 2 and about 5.0 lbs/in 2 , or between about 3.5 lbs/in 2 and about 4.5 lbs/in 2 , as measured by ASTM D 882 when formed into 1 inch strips and pulled at 2 inches/minute.
  • the tensile strengths disclosed herein are also measured and used to describe films 320 that have not yet been shrunk or otherwise subjected to a shrink wrap process.
  • the tear lines 330 are configured such that they will not tear until a threshold force is applied. Configuring the packaging assembly 300 in this way is advantageous in many ways. For example, such a packaging assembly 300 can retain the containers 310 during movement, transport, or manipulation of the packaging assembly 300. Then, at the user's discretion, the film 320 can be easily torn at the tear lines 330 by the application of a force to open the packaging assembly 300 or otherwise remove one or more containers 310 therefrom.
  • the perforation pattern and/or the perforation ratio can be varied to modify the tensile strength.
  • the ratio between perforated and unperforated regions along the tear line 330 can be changed to modify the tensile strength.
  • a higher ratio of perforated to unperforated regions can impart a lower tensile strength
  • a lower ratio of perforated to unperforated regions can impart a higher tensile strength.
  • Extending the length of the perforated regions can also impart a lower tensile strength as compared to shortening the length of perforated regions.
  • the depth of the score, width of the score, and/or length of the score can be varied to modify the tensile strength as desired.
  • the tensile strength or force required to open the packaging assembly 300 at the tear lines 330 can also vary among the different tear lines 330.
  • the packaging assembly 300 can be configured such that the tensile strength of a first or outer tear line 330 is greater than the tensile strength of a second or inner tear line 330.
  • the packaging assembly 300 can be configured such that the tensile strength of the second or inner tear line 330 is greater than the tensile strength of the first or outer tear line 330.
  • the tensile strength of two or more tear lines 330 can vary independently of their location on the packaging assembly 300. Variation among the different tear lines 330 can impart different strength and structural integrity to the packaging assembly 300.
  • having a greater tensile strength among the inner tear lines 330 can impart a greater structural integrity to the inner region of the packaging assembly 300.
  • having a greater tensile strength among the outer tear lines 330 can impart a greater strength to the outer regions (or longitudinal ends) of the packaging assembly 300, which can be advantageous if the packaging assembly 300 is lifted from one or more longitudinal ends.
  • the tensile strength or force required to open the packaging assembly 300 at the tear lines 330 can vary within one or more of the tear lines 330.
  • a tear line 330 can be configured such that the tensile strength of a first portion is greater than the tensile strength of a second portion of the tear line 330.
  • the tensile strength of a side portion of a tear line 330 (or a portion that extends along a longitudinal side of a container) can be greater than the tensile strength of an upper portion of the tear line 330 (or a portion that extends laterally across the top of the container). Varying the tensile strength along the tear line 330 in such a way can impart greater strength to the packaging assembly 300 (e.g., along the sides) while also providing areas for easy opening (e.g., along the top).
  • FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of a packaging assembly 400 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the packaging assembly 400 comprises a plurality of containers 410 and a film 420.
  • the packaging assembly 400 further comprises one or more tear lines 430.
  • the tensile strength can vary among the different tear lines 430.
  • the tensile strength of the first and fifth tear lines 430a, 430e (the outer tear lines) is configured to be different than the tensile strength of the second, third and fourth tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d (the inner tear lines).
  • variation among the different tear lines 430 can impart different strength and structural integrity to the packaging assembly 400.
  • having a greater tensile strength among the inner tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d can impart a greater structural integrity to the inner region of the packaging assembly 400.
  • having a greater tensile strength among the outer tear lines 430a, 430e can impart a greater strength to the outer regions (or longitudinal ends) of the packaging assembly 400, which can be advantageous if the packaging assembly 400 is lifted from one or more longitudinal ends.
  • variation among the tear lines 430 can be done in many ways, including, but not limited to, variation of the perforation or score pattern.
  • the outer tear lines 430a, 430e are configured such that their tensile strength is between about 1 % and about 30% less, between about 5% and about 25% less, or between about 10% and about 20% less than the tensile strength of the inner tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d (e.g., the second, third, and fourth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment).
  • the outer tear lines 430a, 430e are configured such that their tensile strength is at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% less than the tensile strength of the inner tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d (e.g., the second, third, and fourth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment).
  • the outer tear lines 430a, 430e are configured such that their tensile strength is between about 1 % and about 30% greater, between about 5% and about 25% greater, or between about 10% and about 20% greater than the tensile strength of the inner tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d (e.g., the second, third, and fourth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment).
  • FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of a packaging assembly 500 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the packaging assembly 500 comprises a plurality of containers 510 and a film 520.
  • the packaging assembly 500 further comprises one or more tear lines 530.
  • the tensile strength can vary within one or more tear lines 530.
  • the tear lines 530 are configured such that the tensile strength of a first portion 532 is different than the tensile strength of a second portion 534.
  • the first portion 532 (or upper portion extending laterally across the top of the containers 510 (and/or lower portion extending laterally across the bottom of the containers 510)) can be configured such that the tensile strength is less than the tensile strength of the second portion 534 (or the side portion(s) extending along a longitudinal side(s) of the containers 510).
  • Configuring the tensile strength to be lower in the first portion 532 can increase the ease by which the packaging assembly 500 is opened by a user, while a higher tensile strength in the second portion 534 (or second portions 534) can provide increased strength and structural integrity to the packaging assembly 500.
  • the first portion 532 (or upper portion extending laterally across the top of the containers 510 (and/or lower portion extending laterally across the bottom of the containers 510)) can be configured such that the tensile strength is greater than the tensile strength of the second portion 534 (or the side portion(s) extending along a longitudinal side(s) of the containers 510)
  • the packaging assembly 500 need not include a handle, as handles can be an optional feature of the design.
  • one or more tear lines 530 are configured such that the tensile strength of the first portion 532 (e.g., an upper portion) is between about 5% to about 50%, between about 10% to about 45%, between about 10% to about 40%, between about 15% to about 35%, between about 15% to about 30%, between about 20% to about 30%, or between about 20% to about 25% less than the tensile strength of the second portion 534 (e.g., a side portion or side portions).
  • FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment of a packaging assembly 600 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
  • the packaging assembly 600 comprises a plurality of containers 610 and a film 620.
  • the packaging assembly 600 further comprises one or more tear lines 630.
  • the tear lines 630 are disposed in-line with or along the same plane as the one or more containers 610 rather than between rows of containers 610. It will thus be appreciated that the tear lines 630 can be disposed at various locations along the length of the packaging assembly 600 as desired.
  • the method comprises a step of applying tear lines to a film. Scored tear lines, or perforated tear lines can be used.
  • the method can further comprise a step of disposing a film around a plurality of containers.
  • the plurality of containers can be arranged in any desired format, including row and column formats.
  • the film is disposed around the plurality of containers such that the tear lines are disposed around a perimeter of the film.
  • the method can further comprise a step of shrinking the film around the containers. Exemplary shrink film processes can include applying heat to the film which can cause the film to shrink around the containers.
  • the tear lines can be applied before or after disposing the film around the plurality of containers, and before or after the film has been shrunk.
  • the method can further comprise a step of coupling a handle to the packaging assembly.
  • the handle can be coupled to a surface of the film. Additional method steps can be derived from the disclosure herein.
  • Example 1 A packaging film (a multi-layer polyolefin packaging film having a thickness of from about 2.25 mil to about 2.75 mil) was perforated using a laser to form a series of five tear lines. In forming the perforated tear lines, lasers were cycled between ON and OFF positions as the film was passed through the perforation system. Perforated regions formed by turning the laser ON for 1 .5 mm were separated by unperforated regions obtained by turning the laser OFF for 2.0 mm. A portion of the packaging film was divided into 10 samples (each sample containing a 1 -inch wide strip of material) and the tensile strength at a tear line of each sample was measured by pulling the film at 2 inches per minute in accordance with ASTM D 882. The average tensile strength at the tear line was measured to be between about 3.9 lbs/in 2 and about 4.1 lbs/in 2 .
  • a second portion of the packaging film was shrink wrapped around six rows of beverage cans (two cans in each row) to form packaging assembly having tear lines centered between each row of cans.
  • the packaging film performed well and the beverage cans were sufficiently retained by the packaging film as the packaging assembly was lifted and moved. Rows of cans were capable of being torn from the packaging assembly through the application of force at any of the tear lines.
  • the remainder of the packaging assembly also retained its structure and strength after removal of one or more rows of cans.
  • Example 2 A packaging film (a multi-layer polyolefin packaging film having a thickness of from about 2.25 mil to about 2.75 mil) was perforated using a laser to form a series of five tear lines.
  • lasers were cycled between ON and OFF positions as the film was passed through the perforation system.
  • the perforated regions of the outer tear lines were formed by turning the laser ON for 1 .25 mm followed by turning the laser OFF for 2.0 mm to obtain unperforated regions.
  • the perforated regions of the inner tear lines were formed by turning the laser ON for 1 .50 mm followed by turning the laser OFF for 2.0 mm to obtain unperforated regions.
  • a portion of the packaging film was divided into 10 samples (each sample containing a 1 -inch wide strip of material) and the tensile strength at the outer tear lines was measured by pulling the film at 2 inches per minute in accordance with ASTM D 882. The average tensile strength at the outer tear lines was measured to be about 4.3 lbs/in 2 .
  • a portion of the packaging film was shrink wrapped around six rows of beverage cans (two cans in each row) to form packaging assembly having tear lines centered between each row of cans.
  • the packaging film performed well and the beverage cans were sufficiently retained by the packaging film as the packaging assembly was lifted and moved. Rows of cans were capable of being torn from the packaging assembly through the application of force at any of the tear lines.
  • the remainder of the packaging assembly also retained its structure and strength after removal of one or more rows of cans. It was also observed that the outer tear lines were a little stronger than the inner tear lines, but each tear line was capable of being torn at the user's discretion.
  • Example 3 A packaging film (a multi-layer polyolefin packaging film having a thickness of from about 2.25 mil to about 2.75 mil) was perforated using a laser to form a series of five tear lines, each having the varied perforation pattern shown in Table 1 .
  • a portion of the packaging film was divided into 5 samples (each sample containing a 1 -inch wide strip of material) and the tensile strength of each sample was measured by pulling the film at 12 inches per minute. The average tensile strength of the tear lines was measured and shown in Table 1 .
  • Table 1 Table 1 :
  • a second portion of the packaging film was shrink wrapped around six rows of beverage cans (two cans in each row) to form packaging assembly having tear lines centered between each row of cans.
  • the narrow regions of the tear lines (regions 1 , 3, and 5) were centered laterally over the tops and bottoms of the cans, and the wider regions of the tear lines (regions 2 and 4) were centered along the longitudinal sides of the cans.
  • the packaging film performed well and the beverage cans were sufficiently retained by the packaging film as the packaging assembly was lifted and moved. Rows of cans were capable of being torn from the packaging assembly through the application of force at any of the tear lines. The remainder of the packaging assembly also retained its structure and strength after removal of one or more rows of cans.
  • top regions regions 1 , 3, and 5 were easier to break and tear (e.g., for the insertion of one or more fingers to initiate a tear in the film) as compared to the side regions, but both regions were capable of being torn at the user's discretion.
  • Example 4 A packaging film (a multi-layer polyolefin packaging film having a thickness of from about 2.25 mil to about 2.75 mil) was perforated using a laser to form a series of six tear lines. In forming the perforated tear lines, lasers were cycled between ON and OFF positions as the film was passed through the perforation system. Perforated regions formed by turning the laser ON for 1 .5 mm were separated by unperforated regions obtained by turning the laser OFF for 2.0 mm. A portion of the packaging film was shrink wrapped around six rows of beverage cans (two cans in each row) to form packaging assembly having tear lines in-line with the rows of the cans.
  • the packaging film performed well and the beverage cans were sufficiently retained by the packaging film as the packaging assembly was lifted and moved. Rows of cans were capable of being torn from the packaging assembly through the application of force at any of the tear lines. The remainder of the packaging assembly also retained its structure and strength after removal of one or more rows of cans.
  • Any methods disclosed herein comprise one or more steps or actions for performing the described method.
  • the method steps and/or actions may be interchanged with one another.
  • the order and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may be modified.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un ensemble de conditionnement pouvant comprendre une pluralité de contenants et un film. L'ensemble de conditionnement peut en outre comprendre une ou plusieurs lignes de séparation disposées entre des contenants adjacents, ou entre des rangées adjacentes de contenants. Les lignes de séparation peuvent être constituées de lignes de séparation en pointillés ou de lignes de séparation perforées. Les entailles ou perforations peuvent être formées par un laser, une lame ou par tout autre moyen. Un ou plusieurs contenants peuvent être retirés de l'ensemble de conditionnement par déchirement du film le long de la ligne de séparation.
PCT/US2018/052075 2017-09-22 2018-09-20 Ensemble de conditionnement de paquets multiples WO2019060630A1 (fr)

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11565864B2 (en) 2018-08-17 2023-01-31 Niagara Bottling, Llc Perforated case pack top panel

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US4982845A (en) * 1989-06-19 1991-01-08 James River Corporation Resealable enclosure
US20080017531A1 (en) * 2005-01-14 2008-01-24 Japan Tobacco Inc. Cigarette parcel and sheet-like wrapping material therefor
US20120318703A1 (en) * 2008-12-18 2012-12-20 Innovia Films Limited Naked collation package with tube form
US20130206632A1 (en) * 2010-07-09 2013-08-15 Sonoco Development, Inc. Package for stacked product pieces having a pattern of severable locations
US20140096486A1 (en) * 2012-06-25 2014-04-10 Khs Gmbh Process for producing a packaing unit
WO2015127213A1 (fr) * 2014-02-21 2015-08-27 Exopack, Llc Ensemble de conditionnement de paquets multiples

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4982845A (en) * 1989-06-19 1991-01-08 James River Corporation Resealable enclosure
US20080017531A1 (en) * 2005-01-14 2008-01-24 Japan Tobacco Inc. Cigarette parcel and sheet-like wrapping material therefor
US20120318703A1 (en) * 2008-12-18 2012-12-20 Innovia Films Limited Naked collation package with tube form
US20130206632A1 (en) * 2010-07-09 2013-08-15 Sonoco Development, Inc. Package for stacked product pieces having a pattern of severable locations
US20140096486A1 (en) * 2012-06-25 2014-04-10 Khs Gmbh Process for producing a packaing unit
WO2015127213A1 (fr) * 2014-02-21 2015-08-27 Exopack, Llc Ensemble de conditionnement de paquets multiples

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11565864B2 (en) 2018-08-17 2023-01-31 Niagara Bottling, Llc Perforated case pack top panel

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