US20050194429A1 - Self sealing letter sheets - Google Patents

Self sealing letter sheets Download PDF

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Publication number
US20050194429A1
US20050194429A1 US09/978,215 US97821501A US2005194429A1 US 20050194429 A1 US20050194429 A1 US 20050194429A1 US 97821501 A US97821501 A US 97821501A US 2005194429 A1 US2005194429 A1 US 2005194429A1
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Prior art keywords
self sealing
adhesive
letter sheet
sheet
layer
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Abandoned
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US09/978,215
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Luis Rodriguez
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Individual
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Individual
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Priority to US09/978,215 priority Critical patent/US20050194429A1/en
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    • CCHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C09DYES; PAINTS; POLISHES; NATURAL RESINS; ADHESIVES; COMPOSITIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; APPLICATIONS OF MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • C09JADHESIVES; NON-MECHANICAL ASPECTS OF ADHESIVE PROCESSES IN GENERAL; ADHESIVE PROCESSES NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE; USE OF MATERIALS AS ADHESIVES
    • C09J5/00Adhesive processes in general; Adhesive processes not provided for elsewhere, e.g. relating to primers
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10TTECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T156/00Adhesive bonding and miscellaneous chemical manufacture
    • Y10T156/10Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor
    • Y10T156/1002Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina
    • Y10T156/1051Methods of surface bonding and/or assembly therefor with permanent bending or reshaping or surface deformation of self sustaining lamina by folding

Definitions

  • This invention relates to letter sheets particularly to such letter sheets that can be self sealed, obviating thereby the need for an envelope.
  • the term “letter” in this application relates to a blank of a sheet material susceptible of bearing text and/or graphics whether manually, mechanically or otherwise created. Accordingly, the term “self sealing letter” relates to a letter sheet so defined, and which additionally does not require an envelope to cover it to provide privacy, as the letter sheet of the present invention can readily cover itself.
  • the word “letter” in the term “letter sheet” does not have a size restricting connotation; i.e., it should not be construed to indicate a “letter size” sheet, but instead it applies to any dimensions which enable the embodiment of the disclosed invention.
  • Another significant disadvantage resulting from this system is the inability to feed the piece through any sheet fed printer and especially a desktop printer for personalized imprinting.
  • a self sealing letter sheet that is suitable for feeding into any type of printer is obtained from a flat, flexible material and comprises a body, one or more flaps, one or more layers of an adhesive substance and one or more layers of a release substance, that are arranged so when the flap(s) are bent towards the body, the adhesive substance layer(s) face the release substance layer(s), preventing a permanent connection, and which defines the final product, i.e. the way it is offered to the public.
  • the user can seal the letter by positioning another section of the sheet material between the adhesive and release substance layer(s).
  • FIG. 1 is a plan view of layers of adhesive, lower strength adhesive and adhesive inhibitor, as respective examples of a fastener, a lower strength fastener and a fastener inhibitor.
  • FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 2A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 3A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 4A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 5A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 6A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 7A is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 7B is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7A , having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 7C is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7B , after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 7D is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7C , having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 7E is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7D , being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 7F is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7E , fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 8 is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, having pre-printed indicia.
  • FIG. 9A is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 9B is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9A , having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 9C is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9B , after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 9D is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9C , having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 9E is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9D , being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 9F is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9E , fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 10A is a plan view of a letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 10B is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10A , having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 10C is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10B , after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 10D is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10C , having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 10E is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10D , being folded.
  • FIG. 10F is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10E , fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 11 is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet after printing occurred, and having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 12A is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 12B is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12A , having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 12C is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12B , after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 12D is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12C , having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 12E is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12D , being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 12F is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12E , fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 13 is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, after printing occurred, having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 14A is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 14B is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 14A , having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 14C is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 14B , after printing occurred, being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 14D is a plan frontal view of the letter sheet of FIG. 14C , fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 14E is a plan rear view of the letter sheet of FIG. 14D .
  • FIG. 15A is a partial plan view of a web of self sealing letter sheets, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 15B is a perspective view of the web of FIG. 15A , illustrating a sequence of letter sheets in assembled and folded condition.
  • FIG. 16 is a partial plan view of a web of self sealing letter sheets, having preprinted indicia.
  • FIG. 17A is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 17B is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17A , having the flaps bent and after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 17C is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17B , being folded.
  • FIG. 17D is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17C , in a later stage of its folding.
  • FIG. 17E is a plan rear view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17D .
  • FIG. 17E is a plan front view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17E .
  • FIG. 18 is a partial plan view of a web of self sealing letter sheets, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 19A is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 19B is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 19A , having the flap bent, and after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 19C is a perspective rear view of the letter sheet of FIG. 19C , being folded.
  • FIG. 19D is a front plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 19C fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 20A is a plan partial view of a web of letter sheets, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 20B is a plan partial view of the web of letter sheets of FIG. 20A , having its flap bent, and after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 20C is a plan view of a letter sheets detached from the web of FIG. 20B .
  • FIG. 20D is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 20C , being folded.
  • FIG. 20E is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 20D folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 21 is a plan partial view of a web of letter sheets, further illustrating traction holes.
  • FIG. 22A is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 22B is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 22A , having its flap bent, and after printing has occurred.
  • FIG. 22C is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 22B , being folded.
  • FIG. 22D is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 22C , folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 23A is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 23B is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 23A , having its flap bent, and after printing has occurred.
  • FIG. 23C is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 23B , being folded.
  • FIG. 23D is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 23C , folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 24A is a plan view of a dual self sealing letter sheet, containing a response self sealing letter sheet section, and illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 24B is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24A , having the flaps bent, and after printing has occurred.
  • FIG. 24C is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24B , having its flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 24D is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24C , being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 24E is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24D fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 24F is a perspective view of the first step of opening the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24E .
  • FIG. 24G is a perspective view of the second step of opening the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24F .
  • FIG. 24H is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24G , opened and unfolded.
  • FIG. 24I is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24H , illustrating the detachment of the reply section.
  • FIG. 24J is a plan view of the reply section of FIG. 241 .
  • FIG. 24K is a plan view of the reply section of FIG. 24J , having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 24L is a perspective view of the reply section of FIG. 24K , being folded.
  • FIG. 24M is a plan front view of the reply section of FIG. 24L , fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 24N is a plan rear view of the reply section of FIG. 24M , fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 25A is a plan view of a dual self sealing letter sheet containing a response self sealing letter sheet section, and illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 25B is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25A , having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 25C is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25B , after printing has occurred.
  • FIG. 25D is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25C , having its flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 25E is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25D , being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 25F is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25E , in a later stage of fanfolding.
  • FIG. 25G is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25D fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 25H is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25G , opened and unfolded.
  • FIG. 25I is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25H , illustrating the first step to produce the reply section.
  • FIG. 25J is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 251 , illustrating the second step to produce the reply section.
  • FIG. 25K is a plan view of the reply section of FIG. 25J .
  • FIG. 25L is a plan view of the reply section of FIG. 25K , having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 25M is a perspective view of the reply section of FIG. 25L , being folded.
  • FIG. 25N is a plan front view of the reply section of FIG. 25M , fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 25O is a plan rear view of the reply section of FIG. 25N , fully folded and sealed.
  • FIGS. 1 through 6 B are submitted in abstract form since they apply to all embodiments and combination of embodiments of this invention. These figures illustrate the different layers and different pattern arrangements of the layers that can be implemented to achieve the different fastening effects that enable the production of the multiple embodiments of this invention.
  • FIG. 1 It shows in plan view a fastener layer 202 , which as an example could be a pressure sensitive adhesive; a lower strength fastener layer 204 , which as an example could be a low tack pressure sensitive adhesive; and a fastener inhibitor layer 206 , which as an example could be a release substance.
  • a fastener layer 202 and fastener inhibitor layers 206 may vary to suit different purposes, including the purpose of removably connecting a fastener layer 202 to a fastener inhibitor layer 206 .
  • FIG. 2A It shows in perspective view a singular fastener layer 202 on plane 201 , facing a singular fastener inhibitor layer 206 on plane 203 .
  • planes 201 and 203 represent each a face or surface.
  • FIG. 2B It shows in perspective view the layers of FIG. 2A , now having a two sided plane 205 free of any layers positioned between planes 201 and 203 , that will connect to fastener layer 202 when in contact with it.
  • each side of plane 205 represents a face or surface.
  • planes 201 , 203 and 205 can respectively correspond to 3 different plies of a folded piece of a sheet material.
  • FIG. 3A It shows in perspective view a fastener layer 202 alternated with a fastener inhibitor layer 206 on plane 201 , facing another fastener layer 202 alternated with a fastener inhibitor layer 206 on plane 203 , arranged so the fastener layer of one plane face the fastener inhibitor layer of the other plane and vice versa.
  • FIG. 3B It shows in perspective view the layers of FIG. 3A , now having a two sided plane 205 free of any layers between planes 201 and 203 , that will connect to fastener layers 202 when in contact with them.
  • FIG. 4A It shows in perspective view a sequence of fastener layers 202 alternated with fastener inhibitor layers 206 on plane 201 , facing another sequence of fastener layers 202 alternated with fastener inhibitor layers 206 on plane 203 , arranged so the fastener layers of one plane face the fastener inhibitor layers of the other plane and vice versa.
  • FIG. 4B It shows in perspective view the layers of FIG. 3A , now having a two sided plane 205 free of any layers positioned between planes 201 and 203 , that will connect to fastener layers 202 when in contact with them.
  • FIG. 5A It shows in perspective view a sequence of fastener layers 202 , alternated with fastener inhibitor layers 206 , lower strength fastener layers 204 , and a blank space (area with no layer) on plane 201 facing another sequence of fastener layers 202 , alternated with fastener inhibitor layers 206 , lower strength fastener layers 204 and blank spaces (areas with no layers) on plane 203 , arranged so the fastener layers of one plane face the fastener inhibitor layers of the other and vice versa and the lower strength fastener layers of one plane face the blank space(s) of the other and vice versa.
  • a temporary fastening is allowed by the contact of the lower strength fastener layers 204 with the blank spaces.
  • FIG. 5B It shows in perspective view the layers of FIG. 5A , now having a two sided plane 205 free of any layers positioned between planes 201 and 203 , that will connect to fastener layers 202 when in contact with them.
  • FIG. 6A It shows in perspective view a lower strength fastener layer 204 on plane 201 ; facing plane 203 , with no layer.
  • FIG. 6B It shows in perspective view the lower strength fastener layer 204 on plane 201 and no layer on plane 203 , and having between them a two sided plane 205 that will temporarily connect to the lower strength fastener layer 204 , when in contact with it.
  • the preceding figures are only some illustrative examples.
  • the layers described can have any form, as for instance, curvilinear, zig-zag, etc. and a combination of any forms. Can be related to any geometrical shape, as for instance, rectangle, triangle, polygon, circle, ellipse, etc, and any combination thereof. Likewise, the layers may be in the periphery of such geometrical shape, and/or the entire area of said geometrical shape.
  • “score” or “score lines” are illustrative examples of any means of weakening a sheet material for subsequent folding; “die cut” is an illustrative example of cutting a sheet material into a shape or to remove a shape out of a sheet material; “perforation lines” is an illustrative example of any means of weakening a sheet material for subsequent detachment of a portion thereof. Score or folding lines may also be substituted by printed guides, or may simply be omitted.
  • a fastener is exemplified by an adhesive and a fastener inhibitor is exemplified by an adhesive inhibitor (e.g. a release substance).
  • an adhesive inhibitor e.g. a release substance
  • Sheet material is any flexible flat material, and includes but is not limited to: paper, cardboard, film, acetate, and the like. A particular mention is made of a product known in the market as “TyvekTM” by Dupont Corp. of Wilmington, Del.; and of another product being commercialized in conventional paper sizes by Xerox Corp. of Rochester, N.Y. under the commercial name “Never Tear PaperTM” that may be used whenever suitable or desirable.
  • all embodiments may incorporate a) detachment means (e.g. perforation lines) to enable the instant production of separate pieces; b) openings that enable the creation of windows, that may have or may not have a translucent cover; c) traction holes, to enable the feeding of the forms through traction printers; as well as any other features established in the industry.
  • detachment means e.g. perforation lines
  • openings that enable the creation of windows, that may have or may not have a translucent cover
  • traction holes to enable the feeding of the forms through traction printers; as well as any other features established in the industry.
  • FIGS. 7A and 7B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers. This and other examples are for illustration purposes, to show some preferred embodiments. Some shown elements, like score lines may be desirable in certain instances but are not an indispensable aspect of the invention, as indicated above.
  • a previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208 , 210 and 212 separating the body 214 from flaps 216 , 218 and 220 , respectively.
  • Adhesive layers 202 were applied to the flaps.
  • An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body.
  • Score lines 222 and 224 were applied to the body.
  • FIG. 7B Flaps are bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it is offered for sale to the public. The finished self sealing letter sheet is now ready to be fed through a printer by the user.
  • FIGS. 7C through 7F further demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 7C shows the self sealing letter sheet after it was printed.
  • FIG. 7D shows the self sealing letter sheet after flaps were unfolded.
  • FIG. 7E shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded, so the private message will be covered and the addressing information will be readily visible.
  • FIG. 7F shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information.
  • FIG. 8 An alternate of this embodiment is illustrated with FIG. 8 , where the letter sheet has pre-printed a blank check indicia, has perforation lines 226 and 228 , for the subsequent detachment of the check and other sections, after personalized imprinting takes place.
  • Another alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 1st and any subsequent embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layer 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202 , that is activated by its moistening.
  • a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • FIGS. 9A and 9B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • a previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208 , 210 and 212 separating the body 214 from flaps 216 , 218 and 220 , respectively.
  • Adhesive layers 202 were applied to the flaps.
  • An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body.
  • Score lines 222 and 224 were applied to the body.
  • FIG. 9B Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it is offered for sale. The finished self sealing letter sheet is now ready to be fed through a printer by the user.
  • FIGS. 9C through 9F further demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 9C shows the self sealing letter sheet after it was printed.
  • FIG. 9D shows the self sealing letter sheet after flaps were unfolded.
  • FIG. 9E shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded, so the private message will be covered and the addressing information will be readily visible.
  • FIG. 9F shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information.
  • FIGS. 10A and 10B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • a previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208 , 210 and 212 separating the body 214 from flaps 216 , 218 and 220 respectively.
  • Adhesive layers 202 were applied to the flaps.
  • An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body.
  • Score line 222 was applied to the body. Windows 230 and 232 were obtained from original cut.
  • FIG. 10B Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product.
  • the self sealing letter sheet is now ready to be fed through a printer by the user.
  • FIGS. 10C through 10F further demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 10C shows the self sealing letter sheet after it was printed.
  • FIG. 10D shows the self sealing letter sheet after flaps were unfolded.
  • FIG. 10E shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded, so the private message will be covered and the addressing information will be readily visible through the windows.
  • FIG. 10F shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information.
  • FIG. 11 An alternate of this embodiment is illustrated with FIG. 11 , where the letter sheet is used to produce a personalized official message.
  • Another alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 3rd embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layer 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202 , that is activated by its moistening.
  • a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • FIGS. 12A and 12B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • a previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208 , 210 and 212 separating the body 214 from flaps 216 , 218 and 220 respectively.
  • Adhesive layers 202 were applied to the flaps.
  • An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body.
  • Score line 222 was applied to the body.
  • FIG. 12B Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product.
  • the self sealing letter sheet is now ready to be fed through a printer by the user.
  • FIGS. 12C through 12F further demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 12C shows the self sealing letter sheet after it was printed.
  • FIG. 12D shows the self sealing letter sheet after flaps were unfolded.
  • FIG. 12E shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded.
  • FIG. 12F shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information.
  • FIG. 13 An alternate of this embodiment is illustrated with FIG. 13 , where the letter sheet is used to produce a personalized tax form, having perforation lines 226 , 227 and 228 to produce detachable sections.
  • Another alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 4th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layer 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202 , that is activated by its moistening.
  • a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • FIGS. 14A and 14B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • a previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208 and 210 separating the body 214 from flaps 216 , and 218 respectively.
  • Adhesive layers 202 were applied to the flaps.
  • Adhesive inhibitor layers 206 were applied to the body.
  • Score lines 222 , 223 and 224 were applied to the body. Windows 230 and 232 were obtained from original cut.
  • FIG. 14B Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter.
  • FIGS. 14C through 14E demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 14C shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded.
  • FIG. 14D shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information, in a front view.
  • FIG. 14E shows the back view of the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 5th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202 , that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet.
  • a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B illustrate a variation of the fifth embodiment example, to produce a continuous letter sheet, suitable for web presses and any other friction continuous printers.
  • FIG. 15A A web of a sheet material 209 having detachment lines 234 and 236 , defining the limits of an individual letter sheet 207 having all the parts of letter sheet of FIG. 13A .
  • FIG. 15B An assembly of letter sheets is shown.
  • a variation of this letter sheet is obtained by adding traction holes 211 to the web 209 , as shown in FIG. 16 .
  • FIGS. 17A and 17B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • a previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208 and 210 separating the body 214 from flaps 216 , and 218 respectively.
  • Adhesive layers 202 were applied to the flaps.
  • Adhesive inhibitor layers 206 were applied to the body.
  • Score lines 222 , 223 and 224 were applied to the body. Windows 230 and 232 were obtained on second panel from original cut.
  • FIG. 17B Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter sheet.
  • FIGS. 17C through 17F demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 17C shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded.
  • FIG. 17D shows a later stage of the folding of the letter sheet.
  • FIG. 17E shows the back view of the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed.
  • FIG. 17F shows the front of the letter sheet fully sealed, and having addressing information readily visible.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 7th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202 , that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet.
  • a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • FIG. 18 is a web of a sheet material 209 having detachment lines 234 and 236 , defining the limits of an individual letter sheet 207 having all the parts of letter sheet of FIG. 16A .
  • the letter sheets are suitable for feeding into a traction printer.
  • the letter sheet is suitable for feeding into a friction printer.
  • these embodiment examples describe a letter sheet that while offering limited privacy, obviates the need of an envelope; and can be readily sealed after entering indicia, in accordance to postal and courier established practices.
  • the letter sheet also makes unnecessary the use of removable release strips and the use of dry adhesive coatings that need to be moistened for sealing.
  • FIGS. 19A and 19B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • a sheet 207 has score line 208 separating the body 214 from flap 216 .
  • An adhesive layer 202 was applied to the flap.
  • An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body.
  • Score line 222 was applied to the body.
  • Flap was bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter.
  • FIGS. 19C through 19D demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 19C shows in rear view the self sealing letter sheet being folded.
  • FIG. 19D shows in front view the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 9th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202 , that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet.
  • a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • FIGS. 20A and 20B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into continuous printers.
  • a web 209 has detachment lines 234 and 236 , that define individual form 207 .
  • Score line 208 separates the body 214 from flap 216 .
  • An adhesive layer 202 was applied to the flap.
  • An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body.
  • Score/perforation line 222 was applied to the body.
  • Perforated (detachment) lines 213 were applied.
  • Flap was bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it is sold. User already printed the letters.
  • FIGS. 20C through 20D demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 20C shows an individual letter sheet detached from the web.
  • FIG. 20D shows the flap unfolded and letter sheet being sealed.
  • FIG. 20E shows the letter sheet fully sealed.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 10th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202 , that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet.
  • a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • FIG. 21 A variation of the 10th embodiment letter sheet with all its parts and ramifications, is illustrated by FIG. 21 further incorporating holes 211 for use with a tractor printer.
  • FIGS. 22A and 22B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • a sheet 207 has score line 208 separating the body 214 from flap 216 .
  • An adhesive layer 202 was applied to the flap.
  • An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body.
  • Score lines 222 and 224 were applied to the body.
  • Flap was bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter.
  • FIGS. 22C through 22D demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 22C shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded.
  • FIG. 22D shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 11th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202 , that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet.
  • a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • FIGS. 23A and 23B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • a sheet 207 has score line 208 separating the body 214 from flap 216 .
  • An adhesive layer 202 was applied to the flap.
  • An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body.
  • Score lines 222 and 224 were applied to the body. Window 230 was cut out.
  • Flap was bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter.
  • FIGS. 23C through 23D demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 22C shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded.
  • FIG. 23D shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed, and displaying the addressing information.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 12th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202 , that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet.
  • a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • a reply card which may be detached from the original piece may suffice in certain cases. In others where privacy is desirable, this card is not viable.
  • a solution is provided by the following 13th and 14th embodiment examples, which disclose “two-way” self sealing letter sheets, built out of one blank of a flat, flexible material, and readily sealable, obviating thereby the use of two envelopes.
  • a letter sheet is sent to the recipient, who opens it, detaches a portion of it, fills it out, seals it as another letter and sends it back to original remittent.
  • FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate in a progressive manner the application of this invention to build a two-way self sealing letter sheet.
  • a sheet material blank 207 has a first letter section 238 with main flaps 216 , 218 and 220 , and adhesive layers 202 and a release layer 206 .
  • First letter section is to be separated from second letter section 244 by detachment line 234 .
  • Second letter section 244 has flaps 246 , 248 and 250 ; and adhesive layers 202 and release layers 206 .
  • Inner score lines 252 and 254 are applied.
  • Outer score lines 256 and 258 are applied.
  • Perforation lines 260 and 262 are applied across entire two-way letter sheet.
  • FIG. 24B All flaps were bent. (Flaps of second letter section 244 were bent about inner score lines.) Adhesive layers connected in a removable fashion to release layers. Two-way letter sheet is shown after it was printed by the user bearing a message on the first letter section and a reply form for that message on the second letter section. Addressing information appears on the back side of flap 216 .
  • FIGS. 24C through 24N demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 24C shows the flaps of the first letter section unfolded.
  • FIG. 24D shows the letter sheet being fanfolded for sealing.
  • FIG. 24E shows the letter sealed, further displaying the addressing information.
  • FIG. 24F shows the tearing along perforated lines of one side as the first step of opening the letter sheet.
  • FIG. 24G shows the tearing along perforated lines of the other side as the second step of opening the letter sheet.
  • FIG. 24H shows the letter opened and unfolded by recipient, and having its flaps removed.
  • FIG. 241 shows the second (reply) letter section obtained by removing remnant of first letter section.
  • FIG. 24J shows the second letter section fully detached.
  • FIG. 24K shows the side flaps of the second letter section unbent and the second letter section filled out.
  • FIG. 24L shows the second letter section being folded.
  • FIG. 24M shows the flaps folded by outer score lines, and the second letter section sealed in front view, further displaying addressing indicia.
  • FIG. 25A and FIG. 25B illustrate in a progressive manner the application of this invention to build another two-way self sealing letter sheet.
  • a die-cut sheet 207 has a message panel 264 , with flaps 216 , 218 and 220 , and adhesive layers 202 and release layer 206 ; a reply mailer 244 , whose limits are defined by detachment lines 234 and 236 , and with flaps 246 and 248 ; and adhesive layers 202 and release layers 206 ; and an addressing panel 266 .
  • FIGS. 25C through 25O demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 25C shows the letter sheet after it was printed by the user.
  • FIG. 25D shows the flaps of the message panel unfolded.
  • FIG. 25E shows the letter sheet being fan-folded for sealing.
  • FIG. 25F shows a more advanced stage of the folding.
  • FIG. 25G shows the letter sheet sealed and displaying addressing information.
  • FIG. 25H shows the letter sheet after it was opened, unfolded and some flaps were removed by recipient.
  • FIG. 251 shows the message panel being removed by recipient.
  • FIG. 25J shows the addressing panel being removed.
  • FIG. 25K shows the reply portion, ready to be used.
  • FIG. 25L shows the reply portion after it was filled out, and having its flaps unfolded.
  • FIG. 25M shows the reply panel being folded.
  • FIG. 25N shows the reply panel sealed (rear view).
  • FIG. 250 shows the reply portion sealed, and displaying pre-printed indicia (back view)

Abstract

A self sealing letter sheet that obviates the need for an envelope, and that is suitable for feeding into any type of printer. Thus, different embodiments are possible for continuous and non-continuous fed printers, which can be efficiently processed, as the message and addressing information are readily printed in one single step, and requiring only one trip across the printer, which is achieved by one single computer command by the user. In general terms, different facing sections of the letter sheet have layers of adhesive and layers of a release substance arranged in such a manner that when they are in contact with one another, the layers of adhesive face the layers of release, allowing a temporary sealing, and then the positioning of another section of the letter sheet between the facing sections, enables the sealing of the letter sheet. Discretionarily, the letter sheet can also be processed manually.

Description

    CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
  • This is a division of Ser. No. 09/130,534 filed Aug. 4, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,406,586, which is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 09/093,301 filed Jun. 8, 1998, now abandoned, which is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 08/986,394, filed Dec. 8, 1997, now abandoned.
  • BACKGROUND
  • 1. Field of the Invention
  • This invention relates to letter sheets particularly to such letter sheets that can be self sealed, obviating thereby the need for an envelope. The term “letter” in this application relates to a blank of a sheet material susceptible of bearing text and/or graphics whether manually, mechanically or otherwise created. Accordingly, the term “self sealing letter” relates to a letter sheet so defined, and which additionally does not require an envelope to cover it to provide privacy, as the letter sheet of the present invention can readily cover itself. For the purpose of this disclosure, the word “letter” in the term “letter sheet” does not have a size restricting connotation; i.e., it should not be construed to indicate a “letter size” sheet, but instead it applies to any dimensions which enable the embodiment of the disclosed invention.
  • 2. Description of Prior Art
  • Whether it is one individual piece or a massive list of pieces, personalization is a ruling constant in any mailing project in today's private and public sectors. Hence, functionality, economy and versatility are very desirable qualities associated with these projects. Many attempts have been made to achieve these qualities, aimed at designing mailing products that do not require an envelope, or that produce the message and a cover for it in one single step, and most of these efforts have been restricted to continues feeding systems (e.g. web presses and friction printers) as opposed to non-continuous or sheet fed printers (e.g. laser, inkjet, thermal and litho printers.)
  • The following are notable exponents of the known art:
    • U.S. Pat. No. 4,586,651 to Bradley, assigned to Bedford Engineering Co. of Armonk, N.Y.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,125,562 to Bendel; U.S. Pat. No. 5,398,867 to Murphy; U.S. Pat. No. 5,553,774 to Goodno, assigned to Moore Business Forms, Inc. of Grand Island, N.Y.; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,640,835 to Muscoplat.
  • These are specific shortcomings of these exponents of the known art:
    • 1) No product addresses both, continuous and non continues feeding printing needs,
    • 2) Some of these products require the forming of enclosure and envelope separately, utilizing thereby additional materials and assembly time, also increasing the postage cost due to its higher weight,
    • 3) Some of these products require double sided printing of the piece, increasing the costs and also increasing the risk of mismatch due to human error,
    • 4) Some of these products require a complex industrial set-up, limiting thereby the options of the end user, and preventing the on-location final output by the end user,
    • 5) Some of these products use unprotected and exposed coatings of adhesive, during the preparation, printing and forming of the piece, compromising thereby the effectiveness of the adhesive, the appearance of the finished piece, the privacy of the message, and the good flow of the overall project,
    • 6) Some of these products require adhesive coatings to be moistened to promote adhesion, and some require the production, mounting and then the peeling of a liner to expose the adhesive, incurring thereby in additional steps and costs.
  • Also, related to these self contained letter sheets, the USPS (United States Postal Service) sells some non-continuous pieces that don't require an envelope for mailing.
  • One version is sold under the name “Aerogramme”, which appears to be intended mainly for letters and similar correspondence.
  • Another version is sold under the name “Bright Eyes Stamps”, (product # 9840020) made of a card stock and, with decorative imprinting on it, which appears to be intended for greetings and similar correspondence.
  • Both products require layers of dry adhesive to be moistened for sealing of the piece which constitutes its first disadvantage.
  • Another significant disadvantage resulting from this system is the inability to feed the piece through any sheet fed printer and especially a desktop printer for personalized imprinting.
  • And yet another disadvantage is the need to enter the addressing information on the outside of the piece, as an additional step.
  • There is also a self seal mailer in the marketplace by Avery Dennison Corp. of Pasadena, Calif., (Product # 8325) bearing a patent pending notice, which is an 8½×11″ rectangular sheet with two score lines, dividing the rectangle in three panels, and having a narrow extension of about ⅝″ (For a total length of 11⅝″) that carries a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive and which needs to be protected by a removable strip carrying a release substance. This self seal mailer has the following disadvantages:
    • 1) It is necessary to separately produce and then affix this strip liner, which represents additional manufacturing costs that obviously translate into a higher retail price.
    • 2) It is necessary to remove and then discard this strip liner to seal the mailer.
    • 3) It is necessary to install and use customizing software prior to printing of the form via a computer, due to the extension that causes the form to have a non standard size, as those pre-formatted by most word processing, desktop publishing, accounting and other computer programs.
    • 4) The additional costs associated with this software.
    • 5) The need to print separately the message and the addressing information.
    • 6) Due to its open side panels, the contents of the message can be easily seen by anyone with just a minimal effort. Hence, the mailer can not be used when privacy and confidentiality are desirable.
    • 7) This product is only suitable for non-continuos printers.
  • Also, at a very massive level, there are some mailing products that provide a message and means to reply, for the recipient to fill-out an enclosed form, in certain cases or a detachable portion in other cases. They appear more expensive and complicated than the “two-way” self sealing letter sheets of the present invention.
  • One of the most common systems of the prior art requires the use of multiple layers of paper treated with carbon on its back, which suggests a high cost of production, and in the second aspect (the reply piece), the recipient must either peel off and discard a release bearing strip or moisten a dry adhesive coating.
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • In accordance with the present invention, a self sealing letter sheet that is suitable for feeding into any type of printer is obtained from a flat, flexible material and comprises a body, one or more flaps, one or more layers of an adhesive substance and one or more layers of a release substance, that are arranged so when the flap(s) are bent towards the body, the adhesive substance layer(s) face the release substance layer(s), preventing a permanent connection, and which defines the final product, i.e. the way it is offered to the public.
  • Subsequently, the user can seal the letter by positioning another section of the sheet material between the adhesive and release substance layer(s).
  • The following are objects and advantages of this invention:
    • a) to provide a letter sheet that can wrap itself;
    • b) to provide a letter sheet that can as a result obviate the need of an envelope;
    • c) to provide a letter sheet that can as a result obviate the need to insert a message bearing piece into an envelope;
    • d) to provide a system that permits the practical and economical production of self contained letter sheets such as missives, business and legal forms, accounting and legal correspondence, advertising messages, etc. for the personalized printing of both, a private message and the address and return information as well as any other information, with one single printing command, and one single trip of said letter sheet across the printer;
    • e) to provide a letter sheet that as a result can save paper, thanks to its letter plus envelope dual function;
    • f) to provide a letter sheet that can be customized to suit continues and non continues feeding systems, making possible its use with virtually any industrial, commercial and personal printers, and the handling of long runs, short runs or individual printing assignments;
    • g) to provide a letter sheet that can increase the efficiency of personalized printing by including additional areas that can become separate personalized documents as cards, stubs, etc., after they are detached, which in combination with an enclosure, as a return envelope, for example, can maximize the results of a personalized mailing project;
    • h) to provide a letter sheet which can further provide nesting capabilities that enable the insertion of enclosures;
    • i) to provide a letter sheet that can satisfy a diversity of personalized mailing specifications, by working in conjunction with software customized to said specifications, creating additionally other marketing opportunities;
    • j) to provide a letter sheet which can be readily sealed, and which does not require moistening of dry adhesive layers;
    • k) to provide a letter sheet which can be readily sealed, and which does not require the production, affixing and subsequent removal of a release liner to protect adhesive coatings;
    • l) to provide a letter sheet which can be readily sealed, and which does not require the use of adhesive tapes, staples or any other fastening means;
    • m) to provide a letter sheet that can offer absolute privacy and confidentiality, by requiring the absolute and deliberate opening of it to expose its message;
    • n) to provide a letter sheet that offers flexibility for full compliance with private and public mailing/courier system requirements;
    • o) to provide a self sealing letter sheet which can further include attached thereto another self sealing letter sheet that may serve as a reply piece;
    • p) to provide a self sealing letter sheet that can discretionarily be processed by hand.
    REFERENCE NUMERALS
    • 202 fastener layer
    • 204 optional and alternative lower strength fastener layer
    • 206 fastener inhibitor layer
    BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1: is a plan view of layers of adhesive, lower strength adhesive and adhesive inhibitor, as respective examples of a fastener, a lower strength fastener and a fastener inhibitor.
  • FIG. 2A: is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 2B: is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 2A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 3A: is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 3B: is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 3A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 4A: is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 4B: is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 4A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 5A: is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 5B: is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 5A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 6A: is a perspective view of a pattern arrangement of layers on two opposite planes.
  • FIG. 6B: is a perspective view of the pattern arrangement of FIG. 6A now having another plane between them.
  • FIG. 7A: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 7B: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7A, having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 7C: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7B, after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 7D: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7C, having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 7E: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7D, being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 7F: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 7E, fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 8: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, having pre-printed indicia.
  • FIG. 9A: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 9B: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9A, having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 9C: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9B, after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 9D: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9C, having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 9E: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9D, being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 9F: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 9E, fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 10A: is a plan view of a letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 10B: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10A, having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 10C: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10B, after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 10D: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10C, having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 10E: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10D, being folded.
  • FIG. 10F: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 10E, fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 11: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet after printing occurred, and having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 12A: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 12B: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12A, having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 12C: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12B, after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 12D: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12C, having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 12E: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12D, being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 12F: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 12E, fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 13: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, after printing occurred, having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 14A: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 14B: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 14A, having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 14C: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 14B, after printing occurred, being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 14D: is a plan frontal view of the letter sheet of FIG. 14C, fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 14E: is a plan rear view of the letter sheet of FIG. 14D.
  • FIG. 15A: is a partial plan view of a web of self sealing letter sheets, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 15B: is a perspective view of the web of FIG. 15A, illustrating a sequence of letter sheets in assembled and folded condition.
  • FIG. 16: is a partial plan view of a web of self sealing letter sheets, having preprinted indicia.
  • FIG. 17A: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 17B: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17A, having the flaps bent and after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 17C: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17B, being folded.
  • FIG. 17D: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17C, in a later stage of its folding.
  • FIG. 17E: is a plan rear view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17D.
  • FIG. 17E: is a plan front view of the letter sheet of FIG. 17E.
  • FIG. 18: is a partial plan view of a web of self sealing letter sheets, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 19A: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 19B: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 19A, having the flap bent, and after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 19C: is a perspective rear view of the letter sheet of FIG. 19C, being folded.
  • FIG. 19D: is a front plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 19C fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 20A: is a plan partial view of a web of letter sheets, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 20B: is a plan partial view of the web of letter sheets of FIG. 20A, having its flap bent, and after printing occurred.
  • FIG. 20C: is a plan view of a letter sheets detached from the web of FIG. 20B.
  • FIG. 20D: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 20C, being folded.
  • FIG. 20E: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 20D folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 21: is a plan partial view of a web of letter sheets, further illustrating traction holes.
  • FIG. 22A: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 22B: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 22A, having its flap bent, and after printing has occurred.
  • FIG. 22C: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 22B, being folded.
  • FIG. 22D: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 22C, folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 23A: is a plan view of a self sealing letter sheet, illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 23B: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 23A, having its flap bent, and after printing has occurred.
  • FIG. 23C: is a perspective view of the letter sheet of FIG. 23B, being folded.
  • FIG. 23D: is a plan view of the letter sheet of FIG. 23C, folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 24A: is a plan view of a dual self sealing letter sheet, containing a response self sealing letter sheet section, and illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 24B: is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24A, having the flaps bent, and after printing has occurred.
  • FIG. 24C: is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24B, having its flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 24D: is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24C, being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 24E: is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24D fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 24F: is a perspective view of the first step of opening the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24E.
  • FIG. 24G: is a perspective view of the second step of opening the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24F.
  • FIG. 24H: is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24G, opened and unfolded.
  • FIG. 24I: is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 24H, illustrating the detachment of the reply section.
  • FIG. 24J: is a plan view of the reply section of FIG. 241.
  • FIG. 24K: is a plan view of the reply section of FIG. 24J, having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 24L: is a perspective view of the reply section of FIG. 24K, being folded.
  • FIG. 24M: is a plan front view of the reply section of FIG. 24L, fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 24N: is a plan rear view of the reply section of FIG. 24M, fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 25A: is a plan view of a dual self sealing letter sheet containing a response self sealing letter sheet section, and illustrating the layers used.
  • FIG. 25B: is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25A, having the flaps bent.
  • FIG. 25C: is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25B, after printing has occurred.
  • FIG. 25D: is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25C, having its flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 25E: is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25D, being fanfolded.
  • FIG. 25F: is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25E, in a later stage of fanfolding.
  • FIG. 25G: is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25D fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 25H: is a plan view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25G, opened and unfolded.
  • FIG. 25I: is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 25H, illustrating the first step to produce the reply section.
  • FIG. 25J: is a perspective view of the dual letter sheet of FIG. 251, illustrating the second step to produce the reply section.
  • FIG. 25K: is a plan view of the reply section of FIG. 25J.
  • FIG. 25L: is a plan view of the reply section of FIG. 25K, having the flaps unbent.
  • FIG. 25M: is a perspective view of the reply section of FIG. 25L, being folded.
  • FIG. 25N: is a plan front view of the reply section of FIG. 25M, fully folded and sealed.
  • FIG. 25O: is a plan rear view of the reply section of FIG. 25N, fully folded and sealed.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIGS. 1 through 6B are submitted in abstract form since they apply to all embodiments and combination of embodiments of this invention. These figures illustrate the different layers and different pattern arrangements of the layers that can be implemented to achieve the different fastening effects that enable the production of the multiple embodiments of this invention.
  • It is to be clearly understood that these pattern arrangements merely represent some examples. Different needs may require different patterns, and accordingly, a specific pattern or combinations of patterns will result obvious within the scope of this invention.
  • As stated before, it is an express and explicit aspect of this application that all the pattern arrangements of FIGS. 2A through 6B and any combination thereof apply to all embodiments of this application, and this is the purpose of their discussion in this specification.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 1: It shows in plan view a fastener layer 202, which as an example could be a pressure sensitive adhesive; a lower strength fastener layer 204, which as an example could be a low tack pressure sensitive adhesive; and a fastener inhibitor layer 206, which as an example could be a release substance. Properties of fastener layers 202 and fastener inhibitor layers 206 may vary to suit different purposes, including the purpose of removably connecting a fastener layer 202 to a fastener inhibitor layer 206.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 2A: It shows in perspective view a singular fastener layer 202 on plane 201, facing a singular fastener inhibitor layer 206 on plane 203. In this and subsequent references, planes 201 and 203 represent each a face or surface.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 2B: It shows in perspective view the layers of FIG. 2A, now having a two sided plane 205 free of any layers positioned between planes 201 and 203, that will connect to fastener layer 202 when in contact with it. In this and all subsequent references, each side of plane 205 represents a face or surface.
  • In these FIGS. 2A and 2B as well as in all subsequent references, planes 201, 203 and 205 can respectively correspond to 3 different plies of a folded piece of a sheet material.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 3A: It shows in perspective view a fastener layer 202 alternated with a fastener inhibitor layer 206 on plane 201, facing another fastener layer 202 alternated with a fastener inhibitor layer 206 on plane 203, arranged so the fastener layer of one plane face the fastener inhibitor layer of the other plane and vice versa.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 3B: It shows in perspective view the layers of FIG. 3A, now having a two sided plane 205 free of any layers between planes 201 and 203, that will connect to fastener layers 202 when in contact with them.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 4A: It shows in perspective view a sequence of fastener layers 202 alternated with fastener inhibitor layers 206 on plane 201, facing another sequence of fastener layers 202 alternated with fastener inhibitor layers 206 on plane 203, arranged so the fastener layers of one plane face the fastener inhibitor layers of the other plane and vice versa.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 4B: It shows in perspective view the layers of FIG. 3A, now having a two sided plane 205 free of any layers positioned between planes 201 and 203, that will connect to fastener layers 202 when in contact with them.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 5A: It shows in perspective view a sequence of fastener layers 202, alternated with fastener inhibitor layers 206, lower strength fastener layers 204, and a blank space (area with no layer) on plane 201 facing another sequence of fastener layers 202, alternated with fastener inhibitor layers 206, lower strength fastener layers 204 and blank spaces (areas with no layers) on plane 203, arranged so the fastener layers of one plane face the fastener inhibitor layers of the other and vice versa and the lower strength fastener layers of one plane face the blank space(s) of the other and vice versa. A temporary fastening is allowed by the contact of the lower strength fastener layers 204 with the blank spaces.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 5B: It shows in perspective view the layers of FIG. 5A, now having a two sided plane 205 free of any layers positioned between planes 201 and 203, that will connect to fastener layers 202 when in contact with them.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 6A: It shows in perspective view a lower strength fastener layer 204 on plane 201; facing plane 203, with no layer.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 6B: It shows in perspective view the lower strength fastener layer 204 on plane 201 and no layer on plane 203, and having between them a two sided plane 205 that will temporarily connect to the lower strength fastener layer 204, when in contact with it.
  • The preceding figures are only some illustrative examples. The layers described can have any form, as for instance, curvilinear, zig-zag, etc. and a combination of any forms. Can be related to any geometrical shape, as for instance, rectangle, triangle, polygon, circle, ellipse, etc, and any combination thereof. Likewise, the layers may be in the periphery of such geometrical shape, and/or the entire area of said geometrical shape.
  • It is further explicitly disclosed as an aspect of this specification that the pattern arrangements illustrated by these figures and corresponding text apply to all the embodiments of this invention.
  • EMBODIMENT EXAMPLES
  • It is to be understood that the described and illustrated embodiments merely represent some examples. After applying the principles described, and in combination with the multiple pattern arrangements of layers possible, illustrated with examples of preceding FIGS. 2A-6B, and any combination thereof, other embodiments and combination of embodiments will result obvious within the scope of this invention. Also, the position of the adhesive layers and adhesive inhibitor layers may be in inverse order in all embodiments. Attributes of adhesive and adhesive inhibitor (e.g. release) substances may vary to suit different fastening needs, as for instance: the need to temporarily connect a coating of adhesive to a coating of adhesive inhibitor.
  • Closely related embodiment figures have the same number but different alphabetic suffixes.
  • The terms used in the description of embodiments are intended to be exemplifying, and by no means to be restrictively construed, as obvious equivalents may be applied and substitutions may take place within the scope of the invention.
  • For instance: “score” or “score lines” are illustrative examples of any means of weakening a sheet material for subsequent folding; “die cut” is an illustrative example of cutting a sheet material into a shape or to remove a shape out of a sheet material; “perforation lines” is an illustrative example of any means of weakening a sheet material for subsequent detachment of a portion thereof. Score or folding lines may also be substituted by printed guides, or may simply be omitted.
  • Also, a fastener is exemplified by an adhesive and a fastener inhibitor is exemplified by an adhesive inhibitor (e.g. a release substance).
  • “Sheet material” is any flexible flat material, and includes but is not limited to: paper, cardboard, film, acetate, and the like. A particular mention is made of a product known in the market as “Tyvek™” by Dupont Corp. of Wilmington, Del.; and of another product being commercialized in conventional paper sizes by Xerox Corp. of Rochester, N.Y. under the commercial name “Never Tear Paper™” that may be used whenever suitable or desirable.
  • Indicia shown in all embodiments is only for purposes of illustration. It is to be understood that any type of indicia may be inscribed on the forms, within the scope of the invention.
  • Also, whether it is shown or not, all embodiments may incorporate a) detachment means (e.g. perforation lines) to enable the instant production of separate pieces; b) openings that enable the creation of windows, that may have or may not have a translucent cover; c) traction holes, to enable the feeding of the forms through traction printers; as well as any other features established in the industry.
  • 1st Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 7A and 7B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers. This and other examples are for illustration purposes, to show some preferred embodiments. Some shown elements, like score lines may be desirable in certain instances but are not an indispensable aspect of the invention, as indicated above.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 7A: A previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208, 210 and 212 separating the body 214 from flaps 216, 218 and 220, respectively. Adhesive layers 202, were applied to the flaps. An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body. Score lines 222 and 224 were applied to the body.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 7B: Flaps are bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it is offered for sale to the public. The finished self sealing letter sheet is now ready to be fed through a printer by the user.
  • FIGS. 7C through 7F further demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 7C shows the self sealing letter sheet after it was printed. FIG. 7D shows the self sealing letter sheet after flaps were unfolded. FIG. 7E shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded, so the private message will be covered and the addressing information will be readily visible. FIG. 7F shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information.
  • An alternate of this embodiment is illustrated with FIG. 8, where the letter sheet has pre-printed a blank check indicia, has perforation lines 226 and 228, for the subsequent detachment of the check and other sections, after personalized imprinting takes place.
  • Another alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 1st and any subsequent embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layer 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202, that is activated by its moistening. For the temporary connection of the flaps to the body, a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • 2nd Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 9A and 9B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 9A: A previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208, 210 and 212 separating the body 214 from flaps 216, 218 and 220, respectively. Adhesive layers 202, were applied to the flaps. An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body. Score lines 222 and 224 were applied to the body.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 9B: Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it is offered for sale. The finished self sealing letter sheet is now ready to be fed through a printer by the user.
  • FIGS. 9C through 9F further demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 9C shows the self sealing letter sheet after it was printed. FIG. 9D shows the self sealing letter sheet after flaps were unfolded. FIG. 9E shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded, so the private message will be covered and the addressing information will be readily visible. FIG. 9F shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information.
  • 3rd Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 10A and 10B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 10A: A previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208, 210 and 212 separating the body 214 from flaps 216, 218 and 220 respectively. Adhesive layers 202, were applied to the flaps. An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body. Score line 222 was applied to the body. Windows 230 and 232 were obtained from original cut.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 10B: Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product. The self sealing letter sheet is now ready to be fed through a printer by the user.
  • FIGS. 10C through 10F further demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 10C shows the self sealing letter sheet after it was printed. FIG. 10D shows the self sealing letter sheet after flaps were unfolded. FIG. 10E shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded, so the private message will be covered and the addressing information will be readily visible through the windows. FIG. 10F shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information.
  • An alternate of this embodiment is illustrated with FIG. 11, where the letter sheet is used to produce a personalized official message.
  • Another alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 3rd embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layer 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202, that is activated by its moistening. For the temporary connection of the flaps to the body, a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • 4th Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 12A and 12B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 12A: A previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208, 210 and 212 separating the body 214 from flaps 216, 218 and 220 respectively. Adhesive layers 202, were applied to the flaps. An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body. Score line 222 was applied to the body.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 12B: Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product. The self sealing letter sheet is now ready to be fed through a printer by the user.
  • FIGS. 12C through 12F further demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 12C shows the self sealing letter sheet after it was printed. FIG. 12D shows the self sealing letter sheet after flaps were unfolded. FIG. 12E shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded. FIG. 12F shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information.
  • An alternate of this embodiment is illustrated with FIG. 13, where the letter sheet is used to produce a personalized tax form, having perforation lines 226, 227 and 228 to produce detachable sections.
  • Another alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 4th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layer 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202, that is activated by its moistening. For the temporary connection of the flaps to the body, a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • 5th Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 14A and 14B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 14A: A previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208 and 210 separating the body 214 from flaps 216, and 218 respectively. Adhesive layers 202, were applied to the flaps. Adhesive inhibitor layers 206 were applied to the body. Score lines 222, 223 and 224 were applied to the body. Windows 230 and 232 were obtained from original cut.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 14B: Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter.
  • FIGS. 14C through 14E demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user. FIG. 14C shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded. FIG. 14D shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed and displaying the addressing information, in a front view. FIG. 14E shows the back view of the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 5th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202, that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet. For the temporary connection of the flaps to the body, a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • 6th Embodiment Example
  • FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B illustrate a variation of the fifth embodiment example, to produce a continuous letter sheet, suitable for web presses and any other friction continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 15A: A web of a sheet material 209 having detachment lines 234 and 236, defining the limits of an individual letter sheet 207 having all the parts of letter sheet of FIG. 13A.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 15B: An assembly of letter sheets is shown.
  • A variation of this letter sheet is obtained by adding traction holes 211 to the web 209, as shown in FIG. 16.
  • 7th Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 17A and 17B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 17A: A previously die or otherwise cut sheet 207 has score lines 208 and 210 separating the body 214 from flaps 216, and 218 respectively. Adhesive layers 202, were applied to the flaps. Adhesive inhibitor layers 206 were applied to the body. Score lines 222, 223 and 224 were applied to the body. Windows 230 and 232 were obtained on second panel from original cut.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 17B: Flaps were bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter sheet.
  • FIGS. 17C through 17F demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 17C shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded. FIG. 17D shows a later stage of the folding of the letter sheet. FIG. 17E shows the back view of the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed. FIG. 17F shows the front of the letter sheet fully sealed, and having addressing information readily visible.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 7th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202, that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet. For the temporary connection of the flaps to the body, a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • 8th Embodiment Example
  • FIG. 18 is a web of a sheet material 209 having detachment lines 234 and 236, defining the limits of an individual letter sheet 207 having all the parts of letter sheet of FIG. 16A. With traction holes 211, the letter sheets are suitable for feeding into a traction printer. With, or without the traction holes, the letter sheet is suitable for feeding into a friction printer.
  • In certain instances, as in the following 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th embodiment examples, privacy is not a critical aspect in a mailing project. Yet, it is desirable that the pieces have a certain size and or shape, for better handling and to conform to postal guidelines or regulations.
  • Thus, these embodiment examples describe a letter sheet that while offering limited privacy, obviates the need of an envelope; and can be readily sealed after entering indicia, in accordance to postal and courier established practices. The letter sheet also makes unnecessary the use of removable release strips and the use of dry adhesive coatings that need to be moistened for sealing.
  • Further customized advantages may be obtained by the use of “windows”, perforations that enable the instant production of detachable pieces, etc.
  • 9th Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 19A and 19B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 19A: A sheet 207 has score line 208 separating the body 214 from flap 216. An adhesive layer 202, was applied to the flap. An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body. Score line 222 was applied to the body.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 19B: Flap was bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter.
  • FIGS. 19C through 19D demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 19C shows in rear view the self sealing letter sheet being folded. FIG. 19D shows in front view the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 9th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202, that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet. For the temporary connection of the flaps to the body, a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • 10th Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 20A and 20B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 20A: A web 209 has detachment lines 234 and 236, that define individual form 207. Score line 208 separates the body 214 from flap 216. An adhesive layer 202, was applied to the flap. An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body. Score/perforation line 222 was applied to the body. Perforated (detachment) lines 213 were applied.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 20B: Flap was bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it is sold. User already printed the letters.
  • FIGS. 20C through 20D demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 20C shows an individual letter sheet detached from the web. FIG. 20D shows the flap unfolded and letter sheet being sealed. FIG. 20E shows the letter sheet fully sealed.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 10th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202, that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet. For the temporary connection of the flaps to the body, a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • A variation of the 10th embodiment letter sheet with all its parts and ramifications, is illustrated by FIG. 21 further incorporating holes 211 for use with a tractor printer.
  • 11th Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 22A and 22B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 22A: A sheet 207 has score line 208 separating the body 214 from flap 216. An adhesive layer 202, was applied to the flap. An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body. Score lines 222 and 224 were applied to the body.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 22B: Flap was bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter.
  • FIGS. 22C through 22D demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 22C shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded. FIG. 22D shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 11th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202, that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet. For the temporary connection of the flaps to the body, a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • 12th Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 23A and 23B progressively illustrate the application of this invention to produce a self sealing letter sheet suitable for feeding into laser printers and other non continuous printers.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 23A: A sheet 207 has score line 208 separating the body 214 from flap 216. An adhesive layer 202, was applied to the flap. An adhesive inhibitor layer 206 was applied to the body. Score lines 222 and 224 were applied to the body. Window 230 was cut out.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 23B: Flap was bent towards the body, connecting temporarily to it, defining the finished product, as it was sold. User already printed the letter.
  • FIGS. 23C through 23D demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 22C shows the self sealing letter sheet being folded. FIG. 23D shows the self sealing letter sheet fully sealed, and displaying the addressing information.
  • An alternate letter sheet (not shown) of this 12th embodiment is obtained by omitting the adhesive inhibitor layers 206 and using a dry adhesive substance as the adhesive layers 202, that is activated by its moistening, prior to permanently sealing the letter sheet. For the temporary connection of the flaps to the body, a low tack adhesive 204 is used, interacting with a facing space that has no layer of any substance.
  • Other Embodiments
  • There are mailing assignments that require a reply from the recipient of the piece. In these cases, it may be desirable to include means for instant reply, so this convenience maximizes the effectiveness of the assignment. A reply card, which may be detached from the original piece may suffice in certain cases. In others where privacy is desirable, this card is not viable.
  • A solution is provided by the following 13th and 14th embodiment examples, which disclose “two-way” self sealing letter sheets, built out of one blank of a flat, flexible material, and readily sealable, obviating thereby the use of two envelopes. In other words, a letter sheet is sent to the recipient, who opens it, detaches a portion of it, fills it out, seals it as another letter and sends it back to original remittent.
  • 13th Embodiment Example
  • FIGS. 24A and 24B illustrate in a progressive manner the application of this invention to build a two-way self sealing letter sheet.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 24A: A sheet material blank 207 has a first letter section 238 with main flaps 216, 218 and 220, and adhesive layers 202 and a release layer 206. First letter section is to be separated from second letter section 244 by detachment line 234. Second letter section 244 has flaps 246, 248 and 250; and adhesive layers 202 and release layers 206. Inner score lines 252 and 254 are applied. Outer score lines 256 and 258 are applied. Perforation lines 260 and 262 are applied across entire two-way letter sheet.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 24B: All flaps were bent. (Flaps of second letter section 244 were bent about inner score lines.) Adhesive layers connected in a removable fashion to release layers. Two-way letter sheet is shown after it was printed by the user bearing a message on the first letter section and a reply form for that message on the second letter section. Addressing information appears on the back side of flap 216.
  • FIGS. 24C through 24N demonstrate the utilization of this product by the user.
  • FIG. 24C shows the flaps of the first letter section unfolded. FIG. 24D shows the letter sheet being fanfolded for sealing. FIG. 24E shows the letter sealed, further displaying the addressing information. FIG. 24F shows the tearing along perforated lines of one side as the first step of opening the letter sheet. FIG. 24G shows the tearing along perforated lines of the other side as the second step of opening the letter sheet. FIG. 24H shows the letter opened and unfolded by recipient, and having its flaps removed. FIG. 241 shows the second (reply) letter section obtained by removing remnant of first letter section. FIG. 24J shows the second letter section fully detached. FIG. 24K shows the side flaps of the second letter section unbent and the second letter section filled out. FIG. 24L shows the second letter section being folded. FIG. 24M shows the flaps folded by outer score lines, and the second letter section sealed in front view, further displaying addressing indicia. FIG. 24N shows the sealed second letter section in rear view.
  • 14th Embodiment Example
  • FIG. 25A and FIG. 25B illustrate in a progressive manner the application of this invention to build another two-way self sealing letter sheet.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 25A: A die-cut sheet 207 has a message panel 264, with flaps 216, 218 and 220, and adhesive layers 202 and release layer 206; a reply mailer 244, whose limits are defined by detachment lines 234 and 236, and with flaps 246 and 248; and adhesive layers 202 and release layers 206; and an addressing panel 266.
  • REFERRING TO FIG. 25B: All flaps are now bent. Letter sheet is shown as it is marketed.
  • FIGS. 25C through 25O demonstrate subsequent steps taken by the user.
  • FIG. 25C shows the letter sheet after it was printed by the user. FIG. 25D shows the flaps of the message panel unfolded. FIG. 25E shows the letter sheet being fan-folded for sealing. FIG. 25F shows a more advanced stage of the folding. FIG. 25G shows the letter sheet sealed and displaying addressing information. FIG. 25H shows the letter sheet after it was opened, unfolded and some flaps were removed by recipient. FIG. 251 shows the message panel being removed by recipient. FIG. 25J shows the addressing panel being removed. FIG. 25K shows the reply portion, ready to be used. FIG. 25L shows the reply portion after it was filled out, and having its flaps unfolded. FIG. 25M shows the reply panel being folded. FIG. 25N shows the reply panel sealed (rear view). FIG. 250 shows the reply portion sealed, and displaying pre-printed indicia (back view)

Claims (27)

1-44. (canceled)
45) A self sealing letter sheet, so structured as to enable:
1) a private message and
2) a discretionary non-private message,
so the need for an envelope is eliminated,
said self sealing letter sheet comprising:
a) a blank of a sheet material, further comprising:
b) at least one mono-sectional flap,
c) at least one mono-sectional body,
d) at least one layer of adhesive, and at least one layer of adhesive inhibitor applied to said blank of a sheet material, in such a manner that when said at least one mono-sectional flap is in contact with said at least one mono-sectional body, said at least one layer of adhesive faces said at least one layer of adhesive inhibitor, whereby said at least one mono-sectional flap and said at least one mono-sectional body can be removably fastened to one another,
whereby said self sealing letter sheet is manufactured,
and whereby the user can input said private message and said discretionary non-private message, and subsequently fold and seal said self sealing letter sheet.
46) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 45), wherein said body further comprises at least one score line to aid the user to fold said body.
47) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 45), wherein said sheet material is paper, said adhesive is pressure sensitive and said adhesive inhibitor is a release substance.
48) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 45), wherein said self sealing letter sheet is one of a continuous assembly of detachable self sealing letter sheets.
49) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 45) wherein said self sealing letter sheet further comprises means for detachment of a section of said self sealing letter sheet, and said section further comprises:
e) at least one mono-sectional flap,
f) at least one mono-sectional body,
g) at least one layer of adhesive, and at least one layer of adhesive inhibitor applied to said section, in such a manner that when said at least one mono-sectional flap is in contact with said at least one mono-sectional body, said at least one layer of adhesive faces said at least one layer of adhesive inhibitor, whereby said at least one mono-sectional flap and said at least one mono-sectional body can be removably fastened to one another,
whereby a detachable subordinate self sealing letter sheet is produced.
50) A self sealing letter sheet, comprising:
a) at least one flap,
b) a rectangular body,
c) at least one layer of an adhesive substance applied to said at least one flap,
d) at least one layer of an adhesive inhibitor substance applied to said rectangular body,
so when said at least one flap is placed in contact with said at least one body,
said self sealing letter sheet is manufactured.
51) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 50), wherein said rectangular body further comprises at least one score line to aid the user to fold said rectangular body.
52) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 50), wherein said self sealing letter sheet is one of a continuous assembly of detachable self sealing letter sheets.
53) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 50) wherein said self sealing letter sheet further comprises means for detachment of a section of said rectangular body, and said section further comprises:
e) at least one flap,
f) a rectangular subordinate body,
g) at least one layer of an adhesive substance applied to said at least one flap,
h) at least one layer of an adhesive inhibitor substance applied to said rectangular subordinate body,
so when said at least one flap is placed in contact with said rectangular subordinate body,
a detachable subordinate self sealing letter sheet is produced.
54) A self sealing letter sheet, folded so it comprises:
1) a first ply and
2) a second ply,
wherein said first ply is a body,
and said second ply is at least one flap, overlapping said first ply,
further comprising:
a) at least one layer of adhesive on said second ply, and
b) at least one layer of adhesive inhibitor on said first ply,
arranged so when said at least one layer of adhesive faces said at least one layer of adhesive inhibitor, said second ply is temporarily fastened to said first ply, whereby said self sealing letter sheet is produced.
55) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 54), wherein said body further comprises at least one score line to aid the user to fold said body.
56) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 54), wherein said self sealing letter sheet is one of a continuous assembly of detachable self sealing letter sheets.
57) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 54), wherein said self sealing letter sheet further comprises means for detachment of a section of said self sealing letter sheet, and said section is folded so it further comprises:
1a) a first ply and
2a) a second ply,
wherein said first ply is a body,
and said second ply is at least one flap, overlapping said first ply, further comprising:
c) at least one layer of adhesive on said second ply,
d) and at least one layer of adhesive inhibitor on said first ply,
arranged so when said at least one layer of adhesive on said second ply faces said at least one layer of adhesive inhibitor on said first ply; said second ply is temporarily fastened to said first ply, whereby a detachable subordinate self sealing letter sheet is produced.
58) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 57), wherein said body further comprises at least one score line to aid the user to fold said body.
59) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 54), wherein said self sealing letter sheet further comprises a third ply, wherein said third ply is at least one flap partially overlapping said second ply and partially overlapping said first ply.
60) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 59), wherein said self sealing letter sheet is one of a continuous assembly of detachable letter sheets.
61) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 59), wherein said body further comprises at least one score line to aid the user to fold said body.
62) A self sealing form, comprising:
a) a sheet material cut into such a shape that a body and at least one flap are obtained,
b) at least one coating of a fastener and at least one coating of a fastener inhibitor, applied to said sheet material, in such a manner that when said at least one flap overlaps said body, said at least one layer of a fastener faces said at least one layer of a fastener inhibitor,
whereby said at least one flap fastens to said body in a temporarily fashion, and
whereby said self sealing form is manufactured, and is ready to be used.
63) The self sealing formt of claim 62), wherein said sheet material is paper, said fastener is an adhesive substance and said fastener inhibitor is an adhesive inhibitor substance.
64) The self sealing form of claim 63), wherein said adhesive substance is a pressure sensitive adhesive substance, and said adhesive inhibitor substance is a release substance.
65) The self sealing form of claim 62), wherein said self sealing form is one of a continuous assembly of detachable forms.
66) The self sealing form of claim 62), wherein said body further comprises at least one score line to aid the user to fold said body.
67) The self sealing form of claim 62) wherein said self sealing form further comprises means for detachment of a section of said self sealing form, and said section further comprises:
c) a body and at least one flap,
d) at least one coating of a fastener and at least one coating of a fastener inhibitor, applied to said section of said self sealing form, in such a manner that when said at least one flap overlaps said body, said at least one layer of a fastener faces said at least one layer of a fastener inhibitor,
whereby said at least one flap fastens to said body in a temporarily fashion,
whereby a detachable subordinate form is produced.
68) A self sealing letter sheet folded so it comprises:
a) a body and
b) at least one flap,
at least one layer of a repositionable adhesive and at least one layer of a dry adhesive, wherein said dry adhesive is susceptible to become active upon being moistened,
and wherein said at least one layer of a repositionable adhesive and said at least one layer of a dry adhesive are disposed so when said at least one flap and said body are in contact to one another, said repositionable adhesive and said dry adhesive avoid facing one another, and said at least one flap and said body are fastened to one another in a temporary fashion by the action of said repositionable adhesive,
whereby said self sealing letter sheet is produced and is now ready to be used.
69) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 68), wherein said self sealing letter sheet is one of a continuous assembly of detachable letter sheets.
70) The self sealing letter sheet of claim 68), wherein said body further comprises at least one score line to aid the user to fold said body.
US09/978,215 1997-12-08 2001-10-15 Self sealing letter sheets Abandoned US20050194429A1 (en)

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US98639497A 1997-12-08 1997-12-08
US9330198A 1998-06-08 1998-06-08
US09/130,534 US6406586B1 (en) 1997-12-08 1998-08-04 Fastening method and stationery articles produced thereby
US09/978,215 US20050194429A1 (en) 1997-12-08 2001-10-15 Self sealing letter sheets

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US09/978,215 Abandoned US20050194429A1 (en) 1997-12-08 2001-10-15 Self sealing letter sheets

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