US20070180667A1 - Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding - Google Patents
Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070180667A1 US20070180667A1 US11/784,379 US78437907A US2007180667A1 US 20070180667 A1 US20070180667 A1 US 20070180667A1 US 78437907 A US78437907 A US 78437907A US 2007180667 A1 US2007180667 A1 US 2007180667A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- profile
- flanges
- web
- sealant layer
- flange
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A44—HABERDASHERY; JEWELLERY
- A44B—BUTTONS, PINS, BUCKLES, SLIDE FASTENERS, OR THE LIKE
- A44B19/00—Slide fasteners
- A44B19/10—Slide fasteners with a one-piece interlocking member on each stringer tape
- A44B19/16—Interlocking member having uniform section throughout the length of the stringer
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D33/00—Details of, or accessories for, sacks or bags
- B65D33/16—End- or aperture-closing arrangements or devices
- B65D33/25—Riveting; Dovetailing; Screwing; using press buttons or slide fasteners
- B65D33/2508—Riveting; Dovetailing; Screwing; using press buttons or slide fasteners using slide fasteners with interlocking members having a substantially uniform section throughout the length of the fastener; Sliders therefor
- B65D33/2541—Riveting; Dovetailing; Screwing; using press buttons or slide fasteners using slide fasteners with interlocking members having a substantially uniform section throughout the length of the fastener; Sliders therefor characterised by the slide fastener, e.g. adapted to interlock with a sheet between the interlocking members having sections of particular shape
-
- Y—GENERAL 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
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps
- Y10S24/30—Separable-fastener or required component thereof
- Y10S24/50—Separable-fastener or required component thereof including member having elongated, resilient, interlocking face with identical, parallel cross-sections throughout its length
-
- Y—GENERAL 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
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/25—Zipper or required component thereof
- Y10T24/2532—Zipper or required component thereof having interlocking surface with continuous cross section
-
- Y—GENERAL 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
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/25—Zipper or required component thereof
- Y10T24/2532—Zipper or required component thereof having interlocking surface with continuous cross section
- Y10T24/2534—Opposed interlocking surface having dissimilar cross section
-
- Y—GENERAL 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
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
- Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
- Y10T24/45—Separable-fastener or required component thereof [e.g., projection and cavity to complete interlock]
- Y10T24/45152—Each mating member having similarly shaped, sized, and operated interlocking or intermeshable face
- Y10T24/45157—Zipper-type [e.g., slider]
- Y10T24/45168—Zipper-type [e.g., slider] for container [e.g., bag]
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to the reclosable zipper for the application between a pair of side panels of a reclosable package. More particularly, the present invention relates to a reclosable zipper that includes a sealant layer on the flanges of both a first profile member and a second profile member to facilitate attachment of the reclosable zipper to the side panels of a reclosable package.
- the reclosable seal is often provided in the form of a continuous profile strip that may be manufactured independently from the package itself.
- the profile strip is typically wrapped onto a spool or reel for storage until it is needed to complete the packaging process.
- the profile strip When a product is packaged, the profile strip is unwound from its storage spool and attached to the packaging substrate during the packaging process. Typically, the profile strip is attached to each of the side panels of the product package by heating a flange on each of the pair of mating profile members and the side panels of the bag simultaneously. Because both the profile members and the bag material are typically formed from the same material, such as polyethylene, the two components melt together forming a sufficient seal.
- One disadvantage of the use of a heated sealing bar to attach the first and second profile members of a profile strip to the opposite panels of a reclosable bag is that during the heating process, the generally planar flanges of each of the first and second profile members can be distorted due to the heating process.
- Reclosable zippers having one or more fusible ribs for sealing the zippers to the package material are known in the reclosable packaging art. Such zippers are found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,673,383, 5,216,787 and 5,242,516.
- the present invention is directed to a zipper closure for use along a mouth of a flexible, reclosable package.
- the zipper closure is preferably formed as a continuous strip during an extrusion process and is subsequently applied between the first and second panels of a reclosable package, such as with a form, fill and seal (FFS) machine.
- FFS form, fill and seal
- the zipper closure of the present invention includes first and second mating profile members that each include a base and an interlocking closure element extending from the base.
- the first and second profile members are configured such that the interlocking closure elements of each engage each other to hold the first and second profile members in an engaged, closed position.
- Both the first profile member and the second profile member include a pair of flanges that each extend from the base of the respective profile member. The flanges are used to attach the respective profile member to opposite side panels of a flexible web used to create the product package.
- Each of the flanges includes an inner surface and an outer surface.
- the outer surface of each flange faces the web material used to form the product package.
- the outer surface of each flange includes a sealant layer formed near the outermost edge of the flange.
- the sealant layer has a generally teardrop shape and includes an outer surface that protrudes away from the generally planar outer surface of each flange.
- Each of the sealant layers can be extruded with the remaining portions of the first and second profile members.
- the sealant layers are preferably formed from a second material while the remaining portions of the first and second profile members are formed from a first material.
- the first material is a low density polyethylene
- the second material that forms the sealant layer is an EVA sealant layer that melts at a lower temperature than the low density polyethylene.
- Each of the first and second profile members includes at least one standoff area formed on the inner surface of each of the flanges of the profile members.
- Each standoff area extends away from the otherwise planar inner surface of the flange such that each of the standoff areas extends toward the opposing profile member.
- each of the standoff areas are formed near the outermost edge of the respective flange such that each of the standoff areas are generally aligned with one of the sealant layers.
- each of the standoff areas contacts a zipper guide plate to provide support for the sealant layer during the pressure application of a heated sealing bar. The interaction between the standoff areas and the guide plate prevents deflection of the flanges and aids in the attachment of the sealant layers to the web material.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a reclosable package incorporating the zipper closure of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a section view of the mated reclosable zipper of the present invention as extruded
- FIG. 3 is a section view of the reclosable zipper of the present invention prior to sealing to a web of film;
- FIG. 4 is a section view illustrating the positioning of the reclosable zipper relative to a pair of zipper guide plates prior to attachment of the reclosable zipper to the flexible web;
- FIG. 5 is a section view illustrating the application of a pair of heated sealing bars to the reclosable package during formation
- FIG. 6 is a section view illustrating the reclosable zipper as securely attached to the side panels of a reclosable package.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a flexible, reclosable package 10 .
- the flexible package 10 has a first and a second polymeric film side panels 12 , 14 defining an open interior.
- the flexible package includes a pair of side edges 18 , 20 and a bottom edge 22 .
- the pair of side panels 12 and 14 are connected to each other along the side edges 18 and 20 as well as the bottom edge 22 to form the open interior of the package 10 .
- the first side edge 18 and the second side edge 20 are seals created by the application of heat and pressure for a set period to the side panels 12 and 14 .
- a mouth 24 provides access to the interior of the package 10 along the top of the package.
- a zipper closure 26 is formed along the mouth 24 and extends from the first side edge 18 to the second side edge 20 .
- the zipper closure 26 can include a variety of configurations and structures.
- the zipper closure 26 generally includes a first profile member 30 attached to the side panel 12 and a second profile member 32 attached to the opposite side panel 14 .
- the first and second profile members 30 , 32 are configured and arranged to interlock with each other to provide a generally fluid type seal across the mouth 24 when the zipper closure 26 is in its fully mated, sealed position.
- the zipper closure 26 is formed using an extrusion process, as will be described in much greater detail below, and is provided as a continuous strip of material wound onto a roll or spool and is provided packaging facility. Once in the packaging facility, the continuous strip of the zipper closure 26 is applied between opposing sheets of a flexible web in a form, fill and seal (FFS) machine. While in the form, fill and seal machine, the first and second profile members 30 , 32 are attached to the opposing side panels 12 , 14 using a heat application process. During the same process, the side edges 18 , 20 are also formed through the application of heat.
- FFS form, fill and seal
- the zipper closure 26 in its mated condition prior to the application of the zipper closure 26 to the reclosable package.
- the zipper closure 26 includes the first profile member 30 and the second profile member 32 .
- the first profile member 30 includes a base 34 and an interlocking closure element 36 extending from the base 34 .
- the interlocking closure element 36 is a female closure element having a pair of spaced engagement posts 38 , 40 that define the receiving opening 42 .
- Each of the engagement posts 38 , 40 includes a protruding locking hook 44 that functions to engage the mating second profile member 32 , as will be described in greater detail below.
- the mating second profile member 32 also includes a base portion 46 having an interlocking closure element 48 extending therefrom.
- the interlocking closure element 48 is a male closure post having a pair of protruding locking ribs 50 .
- the locking ribs 50 engage the locking hooks 44 to secure the first and second profile members 30 , 32 in the engaged position shown in FIG. 2 .
- the first profile member 30 includes a pair of flanges 52 extending in opposite directions from the base 34 .
- Each of the flanges 52 includes an inner surface 54 and an outer surface 56 .
- the flanges 52 are integrally formed with the base 34 and the interlocking closure element 36 during an extrusion process.
- the outer surface 56 of each of the flanges 52 creates a generally planar surface area with the outer surface 58 of the base 34 .
- the second profile member 32 also includes a pair of flanges 58 integrally formed with the base 46 .
- Each of the flanges 58 includes an inner surface 60 and an outer surface 62 .
- the outer surface 62 of each flange is generally coplanar with an outer surface 64 of the base portion 46 .
- one of the flanges 58 of the second profile member 32 includes an upstanding sealing flange 66 that is typically positioned toward the open interior of the package and aids in providing a seal across the open mouth of the product package.
- the flanges and base portion of both the first and second profile members 30 , 32 are formed from the same material, such as a low density polyethylene. This type of material is typically used in the formation of an interlocking zipper closure 26 . Although low density polyethylene is shown and described in the preferred embodiment, other similar materials are contemplated.
- the first profile member 30 includes a pair of sealant layers 68 formed near the outermost edge 70 of each of the flanges 52 .
- each of the sealant layers 68 is generally teardrop shaped and includes an outer surface 72 that protrudes outwardly of the outer surface 56 of each of the flanges 52 and the outer surface 58 of the base 34 .
- the second profile member 32 also includes a pair of sealant layers 74 formed near the outermost edge 75 of each of the flanges 58 .
- Each of the sealant layers 74 is also teardrop shaped and includes an outer surface 76 that protrudes outwardly of the outer surface 62 of each of the flanges 58 and the outer surface 64 of the base 46 .
- the sealant layers 68 , 74 are formed from a material different from the material used to form the remaining portions of both of the first and second profile members 30 , 32 .
- each of the sealant layers 68 , 74 is formed from a material having a lower melting point than the low density polyethylene used to form the first and second profile members 30 , 32 .
- each of the sealant layers 68 , 74 is formed from an EVA material that melts at a lower temperature than the low density polyethylene, for the reasons to be set forth below.
- Other materials, such as metallocene, are also contemplated for use as the sealant layers 68 , 74 .
- the flanges 52 of the first profile member 30 each include at least one standoff area 78 formed at the outer edge 70 of the flanges 52 .
- the standoff areas 78 each extend away from the inner surface 54 of the flange and toward the second profile member 32 when the profile members are in the mated condition shown in FIG. 2 .
- the standoff areas 78 are each generally aligned with one of the sealant layers 68 formed on the outer surface 56 of the flanges 52 .
- the second profile member 32 also includes a pair of standoff areas 80 formed on each of the flanges 58 .
- Each of the standoff areas 80 protrude from the inner surface 60 of the flanges 58 and toward the mating first profile member 30 when the profile members are in the mated condition shown in FIG. 2 .
- the standoff areas 80 are each generally aligned with one of the sealant layers 74 formed on the outer surface 62 of the flanges 58 .
- FIG. 3 thereshown is the initial step in the application of the zipper closure 26 between a first layer of web material 100 and a second layer of web material 102 .
- the first and second layers of web material 100 , 102 may be joined to each other along a bottom fold or may be separate sections of polymeric film.
- the package side edges are formed such that the first and second layers of web material 100 , 102 become the opposing side panels of the product package.
- the inner surface 104 of the first web 100 contacts only the outer surface 72 of the sealant layers 68 .
- the inner surface 104 of the web material 100 is spaced from the outer surface 56 of the flanges 52 and the outer surface 58 of the base portion 34 .
- the inner surface 106 of the second web 102 contacts only the outer surface 76 of the sealant layers 74 formed on the flanges 58 of the second profile member 32 .
- the contact between the sealant layers 74 and the inner surface 106 provides a space between the inner surface 106 and the outer surface 62 of the flanges 58 and the outer surface 64 of the base portion 46 .
- the zipper guide plates 108 are preferably formed form a metallic material and are positioned between the flanges 52 of the first profile member 30 and the flanges 58 of the second profile member 32 .
- Each of the guide plates 108 extends inwardly from the outer edges 70 , 75 of the first and second profile members 30 , 32 to a location spaced from the interlocking closure elements 36 , 48 .
- the guide plates 108 provides support for the flanges of the first and second profile members and aid in preventing the profile members from becoming sealed to each other during the application of heat required to attached the zipper closure to the first and second webs 100 , 102 .
- the standoff areas of the first profile member 30 and the standoff areas 80 of the second profile member 32 each contact and engage an outer surface 110 of the guide plates 108 .
- the interaction between the standoff areas 78 , 80 and the guide plates 108 provides additional support for the outer edges of each of the flanges 52 , 58 . Since each of the standoff areas 78 , 80 is generally aligned with one of the sealant layers 68 , 74 , the support created by the standoff areas 78 , 80 is generally aligned with the sealant layers 68 , 74 .
- FIG. 5 thereshown is a pair of heated sealing bars 112 being brought into contact with the first and second webs 100 , 102 .
- the heat provided by the sealing bars 112 causes each of the sealant layers 68 and 74 to melt. Since each of the sealant layers 68 , 74 are formed from a different material than the flanges 52 , 58 and bases 34 , 46 of the first and second profile members 30 , 32 , the initial application of heat will cause only the sealant layers 68 , 74 to melt.
- each of the sealant layers 68 , 74 creates an open air gap 114 that prevents the web material 100 , 102 from sealing to the outer surface of the first and second profile members 30 , 32 .
- the heated sealing bars 112 exert an inward pressure between the layers of web material 100 , 102 and the respective profile member.
- the standoff areas 78 , 80 are generally aligned with the sealant layers 68 , 74 such that during the pressure applied by the sealing bars 112 , the standoff areas 78 , 80 provide additional support and increase the contact between the sealing layers 68 , 74 and the layers of web material 100 , 102 .
- each of the flanges 52 , 58 would deflect inward and thus reduce the pressure contact between the sealant layers 68 , 74 and the web material 100 , 102 .
- the standoff areas 78 , 80 aid in increasing the seal between the first and second profile members 30 , 32 and the layers of web material 100 , 102 .
Abstract
Description
- The present invention generally relates to the reclosable zipper for the application between a pair of side panels of a reclosable package. More particularly, the present invention relates to a reclosable zipper that includes a sealant layer on the flanges of both a first profile member and a second profile member to facilitate attachment of the reclosable zipper to the side panels of a reclosable package.
- In the field of packaging, particularly in the area of food packaging, it is often desirable to package items in a package that may be repeatedly opened and closed. For example, when dealing with packaged foods, the consumer may initially use only a portion of the food contained within one package. By providing a package that may be reclosed by the consumer, the consumer avoids having to locate a storage container for the unused portion of the food in the package. It will be appreciated that reclosable packaging enhances the marketability of such products.
- To facilitate the manufacturing of packages including a reclosable seal, the reclosable seal is often provided in the form of a continuous profile strip that may be manufactured independently from the package itself. The profile strip is typically wrapped onto a spool or reel for storage until it is needed to complete the packaging process.
- When a product is packaged, the profile strip is unwound from its storage spool and attached to the packaging substrate during the packaging process. Typically, the profile strip is attached to each of the side panels of the product package by heating a flange on each of the pair of mating profile members and the side panels of the bag simultaneously. Because both the profile members and the bag material are typically formed from the same material, such as polyethylene, the two components melt together forming a sufficient seal.
- One disadvantage of the use of a heated sealing bar to attach the first and second profile members of a profile strip to the opposite panels of a reclosable bag is that during the heating process, the generally planar flanges of each of the first and second profile members can be distorted due to the heating process.
- Reclosable zippers having one or more fusible ribs for sealing the zippers to the package material are known in the reclosable packaging art. Such zippers are found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,673,383, 5,216,787 and 5,242,516.
- Although the prior art shows examples of fusible ribs and sealant layers used to attach a profile strip to a reclosable package, the configuration and construction of the profile strip requires improvement.
- The present invention is directed to a zipper closure for use along a mouth of a flexible, reclosable package. The zipper closure is preferably formed as a continuous strip during an extrusion process and is subsequently applied between the first and second panels of a reclosable package, such as with a form, fill and seal (FFS) machine.
- The zipper closure of the present invention includes first and second mating profile members that each include a base and an interlocking closure element extending from the base. The first and second profile members are configured such that the interlocking closure elements of each engage each other to hold the first and second profile members in an engaged, closed position. Both the first profile member and the second profile member include a pair of flanges that each extend from the base of the respective profile member. The flanges are used to attach the respective profile member to opposite side panels of a flexible web used to create the product package.
- Each of the flanges includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The outer surface of each flange faces the web material used to form the product package. In accordance with the present invention, the outer surface of each flange includes a sealant layer formed near the outermost edge of the flange. The sealant layer has a generally teardrop shape and includes an outer surface that protrudes away from the generally planar outer surface of each flange. Thus, when the first and second profile members are brought into contact with a layer of web material, the outer surface of each of the sealant layers contacts the inner surface of the web material. In this manner, an open air gap is formed between the layer of web material and the outer surface of the base of each of the first and second profile members.
- Each of the sealant layers can be extruded with the remaining portions of the first and second profile members. The sealant layers are preferably formed from a second material while the remaining portions of the first and second profile members are formed from a first material. Preferably, the first material is a low density polyethylene, while the second material that forms the sealant layer is an EVA sealant layer that melts at a lower temperature than the low density polyethylene.
- Each of the first and second profile members includes at least one standoff area formed on the inner surface of each of the flanges of the profile members. Each standoff area extends away from the otherwise planar inner surface of the flange such that each of the standoff areas extends toward the opposing profile member. Preferably, each of the standoff areas are formed near the outermost edge of the respective flange such that each of the standoff areas are generally aligned with one of the sealant layers. During the application of the zipper closure to the web material, each of the standoff areas contacts a zipper guide plate to provide support for the sealant layer during the pressure application of a heated sealing bar. The interaction between the standoff areas and the guide plate prevents deflection of the flanges and aids in the attachment of the sealant layers to the web material.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a reclosable package incorporating the zipper closure of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a section view of the mated reclosable zipper of the present invention as extruded; -
FIG. 3 is a section view of the reclosable zipper of the present invention prior to sealing to a web of film; -
FIG. 4 is a section view illustrating the positioning of the reclosable zipper relative to a pair of zipper guide plates prior to attachment of the reclosable zipper to the flexible web; -
FIG. 5 is a section view illustrating the application of a pair of heated sealing bars to the reclosable package during formation; and -
FIG. 6 is a section view illustrating the reclosable zipper as securely attached to the side panels of a reclosable package. -
FIG. 1 illustrates a flexible,reclosable package 10. Theflexible package 10 has a first and a second polymericfilm side panels side edges bottom edge 22. The pair ofside panels side edges bottom edge 22 to form the open interior of thepackage 10. Thefirst side edge 18 and thesecond side edge 20 are seals created by the application of heat and pressure for a set period to theside panels - As shown in
FIG. 1 , amouth 24 provides access to the interior of thepackage 10 along the top of the package. Azipper closure 26 is formed along themouth 24 and extends from thefirst side edge 18 to thesecond side edge 20. Thezipper closure 26 can include a variety of configurations and structures. - As illustrated in
FIG. 1 , thezipper closure 26 generally includes afirst profile member 30 attached to theside panel 12 and asecond profile member 32 attached to theopposite side panel 14. The first andsecond profile members mouth 24 when thezipper closure 26 is in its fully mated, sealed position. - In many applications, the
zipper closure 26 is formed using an extrusion process, as will be described in much greater detail below, and is provided as a continuous strip of material wound onto a roll or spool and is provided packaging facility. Once in the packaging facility, the continuous strip of thezipper closure 26 is applied between opposing sheets of a flexible web in a form, fill and seal (FFS) machine. While in the form, fill and seal machine, the first andsecond profile members opposing side panels side edges - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , thereshown is thezipper closure 26 in its mated condition prior to the application of thezipper closure 26 to the reclosable package. Thezipper closure 26 includes thefirst profile member 30 and thesecond profile member 32. Thefirst profile member 30 includes abase 34 and aninterlocking closure element 36 extending from thebase 34. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2 , theinterlocking closure element 36 is a female closure element having a pair of spacedengagement posts hook 44 that functions to engage the matingsecond profile member 32, as will be described in greater detail below. - The mating
second profile member 32 also includes abase portion 46 having an interlockingclosure element 48 extending therefrom. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2 , theinterlocking closure element 48 is a male closure post having a pair of protruding lockingribs 50. The lockingribs 50 engage the locking hooks 44 to secure the first andsecond profile members FIG. 2 . - As illustrated in
FIG. 2 , thefirst profile member 30 includes a pair offlanges 52 extending in opposite directions from thebase 34. Each of theflanges 52 includes aninner surface 54 and anouter surface 56. Theflanges 52 are integrally formed with thebase 34 and theinterlocking closure element 36 during an extrusion process. As illustrated inFIG. 2 , theouter surface 56 of each of theflanges 52 creates a generally planar surface area with theouter surface 58 of thebase 34. - The
second profile member 32 also includes a pair offlanges 58 integrally formed with thebase 46. Each of theflanges 58 includes aninner surface 60 and anouter surface 62. Theouter surface 62 of each flange is generally coplanar with anouter surface 64 of thebase portion 46. In the embodiment of the invention illustrated, one of theflanges 58 of thesecond profile member 32 includes anupstanding sealing flange 66 that is typically positioned toward the open interior of the package and aids in providing a seal across the open mouth of the product package. - In the embodiment of the invention illustrated, the flanges and base portion of both the first and
second profile members zipper closure 26. Although low density polyethylene is shown and described in the preferred embodiment, other similar materials are contemplated. - As illustrated in
FIG. 2 , thefirst profile member 30 includes a pair of sealant layers 68 formed near theoutermost edge 70 of each of theflanges 52. As illustrated, each of the sealant layers 68 is generally teardrop shaped and includes anouter surface 72 that protrudes outwardly of theouter surface 56 of each of theflanges 52 and theouter surface 58 of thebase 34. - As illustrated, the
second profile member 32 also includes a pair of sealant layers 74 formed near theoutermost edge 75 of each of theflanges 58. Each of the sealant layers 74 is also teardrop shaped and includes anouter surface 76 that protrudes outwardly of theouter surface 62 of each of theflanges 58 and theouter surface 64 of thebase 46. - In the embodiment of the invention illustrated in
FIG. 2 , the sealant layers 68, 74 are formed from a material different from the material used to form the remaining portions of both of the first andsecond profile members second profile members - Referring back to
FIG. 2 , theflanges 52 of thefirst profile member 30 each include at least onestandoff area 78 formed at theouter edge 70 of theflanges 52. Thestandoff areas 78 each extend away from theinner surface 54 of the flange and toward thesecond profile member 32 when the profile members are in the mated condition shown inFIG. 2 . Thestandoff areas 78 are each generally aligned with one of the sealant layers 68 formed on theouter surface 56 of theflanges 52. - The
second profile member 32 also includes a pair ofstandoff areas 80 formed on each of theflanges 58. Each of thestandoff areas 80 protrude from theinner surface 60 of theflanges 58 and toward the matingfirst profile member 30 when the profile members are in the mated condition shown inFIG. 2 . Thestandoff areas 80 are each generally aligned with one of the sealant layers 74 formed on theouter surface 62 of theflanges 58. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , thereshown is the initial step in the application of thezipper closure 26 between a first layer ofweb material 100 and a second layer ofweb material 102. During the formation of a product package, the first and second layers ofweb material zipper closure 26 has been attached to both the first andsecond layers web material - As illustrated in
FIG. 3 , when theweb material zipper closure 26, theinner surface 104 of thefirst web 100 contacts only theouter surface 72 of the sealant layers 68. As illustrated, theinner surface 104 of theweb material 100 is spaced from theouter surface 56 of theflanges 52 and theouter surface 58 of thebase portion 34. - Likewise, the
inner surface 106 of thesecond web 102 contacts only theouter surface 76 of the sealant layers 74 formed on theflanges 58 of thesecond profile member 32. The contact between the sealant layers 74 and theinner surface 106 provides a space between theinner surface 106 and theouter surface 62 of theflanges 58 and theouter surface 64 of thebase portion 46. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 , once theweb material second profile members zipper guide plates 108. Thezipper guide plates 108 are preferably formed form a metallic material and are positioned between theflanges 52 of thefirst profile member 30 and theflanges 58 of thesecond profile member 32. Each of theguide plates 108 extends inwardly from theouter edges second profile members closure elements guide plates 108 provides support for the flanges of the first and second profile members and aid in preventing the profile members from becoming sealed to each other during the application of heat required to attached the zipper closure to the first andsecond webs - As illustrated in
FIG. 4 , the standoff areas of thefirst profile member 30 and thestandoff areas 80 of thesecond profile member 32 each contact and engage anouter surface 110 of theguide plates 108. The interaction between thestandoff areas guide plates 108 provides additional support for the outer edges of each of theflanges standoff areas standoff areas - Referring now to
FIG. 5 , thereshown is a pair of heated sealing bars 112 being brought into contact with the first andsecond webs webs flanges bases second profile members - As illustrated in
FIG. 6 , once the sealant layers 68, 74 have melted, the sealant layers form a bond between theflanges 52 and thefirst web 100 and between theflanges 58 and thesecond web 102. However, as can be understood inFIG. 5 , the teardrop shape of each of the sealant layers 68, 74 creates anopen air gap 114 that prevents theweb material second profile members - As illustrated in
FIG. 6 , once the sealant layer has been melted and thezipper closure 26 attached to the layers ofweb material base portion web material - Referring back to
FIG. 5 , during the application of the heated sealing bars 112, the heated sealing bars 112 exert an inward pressure between the layers ofweb material standoff areas standoff areas web material standoff areas flanges web material standoff areas second profile members web material - Having described the presently preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention may be otherwise embodied within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (10)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/784,379 US20070180667A1 (en) | 2004-03-25 | 2007-04-05 | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/810,747 US7216405B2 (en) | 2004-03-25 | 2004-03-25 | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
US11/784,379 US20070180667A1 (en) | 2004-03-25 | 2007-04-05 | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/810,747 Division US7216405B2 (en) | 2004-03-25 | 2004-03-25 | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20070180667A1 true US20070180667A1 (en) | 2007-08-09 |
Family
ID=34862113
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/810,747 Active 2024-07-01 US7216405B2 (en) | 2004-03-25 | 2004-03-25 | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
US11/784,379 Abandoned US20070180667A1 (en) | 2004-03-25 | 2007-04-05 | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/810,747 Active 2024-07-01 US7216405B2 (en) | 2004-03-25 | 2004-03-25 | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7216405B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1579780A3 (en) |
Families Citing this family (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7216405B2 (en) * | 2004-03-25 | 2007-05-15 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
JP4856853B2 (en) * | 2004-05-21 | 2012-01-18 | 出光ユニテック株式会社 | Zipper tape and packaging bag with zipper tape |
US7540072B2 (en) * | 2006-06-26 | 2009-06-02 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Zipper construction for enhanced sealing |
US8540428B2 (en) * | 2006-09-22 | 2013-09-24 | Idemitsu Unitech Co., Ltd. | Easily tearable fastener tape, method of producing the fastener tape, packaging bag with easily tearable fastener tape, and device and method for producing the packaging bag |
US8522406B2 (en) | 2009-11-10 | 2013-09-03 | Velcro Industries B.V. | Releasable fastening along a bead |
US20110293204A1 (en) * | 2010-01-28 | 2011-12-01 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Zipper profiles with foamed sealant |
FR2956858B1 (en) * | 2010-02-26 | 2013-12-13 | S2F Flexico | CLOSURE STRIP FOR A BAG AND ASSOCIATED BAG |
US10689161B1 (en) * | 2012-06-19 | 2020-06-23 | Wl Reclosables Llc | Fastener with guide posts and methods therefor |
JPWO2016159148A1 (en) * | 2015-03-31 | 2018-01-25 | 出光ユニテック株式会社 | Bag body with zipper tape and method for manufacturing the same |
US10336226B2 (en) | 2017-02-23 | 2019-07-02 | Velcro BVBA | Tool for fastening a listing bead to a fastener strip |
Citations (26)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4673383A (en) * | 1985-11-12 | 1987-06-16 | Minigrip, Incorporated | Fusible rib bonding of fasteners to substrate |
US4691373A (en) * | 1985-08-05 | 1987-09-01 | Minigrip, Incorporated | Zipper closure with unitary adhesive cover sheet |
US4817188A (en) * | 1988-03-07 | 1989-03-28 | Minigrip, Inc. | Bag with separate attached zipper and method of making |
US4835835A (en) * | 1986-08-08 | 1989-06-06 | Minigrip, Inc. | Method and apparatus for making extruded separable fastener with reactivatable adhesive |
US4964739A (en) * | 1989-04-06 | 1990-10-23 | Kcl Corp. | Flexible container having tamper evident closure |
US5063644A (en) * | 1991-03-22 | 1991-11-12 | Mobil Oil Corporation | Foldable zipper slider with compression-type latch |
US5216787A (en) * | 1990-10-22 | 1993-06-08 | Reynolds Consumer Products Inc. | Co-extruded profile strip containing lateral webs with adhesive subdivided into ribs |
US5242516A (en) * | 1990-10-22 | 1993-09-07 | Reynolds Consumer Products Inc. | Co-extruded profile strip containing lateral webs with adhesive subdivided into ribs |
US5301394A (en) * | 1993-07-29 | 1994-04-12 | Mobil Oil Corporation | Plastic reclosable fastener with slider detent lock for locking slider in closed position |
US5366294A (en) * | 1989-04-24 | 1994-11-22 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Recloseable package having recloseable profile strips with a heat barrier |
US5442837A (en) * | 1994-06-20 | 1995-08-22 | Mobil Oil Corporation | Integrated end stops for zipper slider |
US5628566A (en) * | 1996-01-29 | 1997-05-13 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Profile sealing flange |
US5638586A (en) * | 1996-05-13 | 1997-06-17 | Illinois Tool Works, Inc. | Transverse zipper system |
US5655273A (en) * | 1996-04-18 | 1997-08-12 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Minimal curl sealing flange |
US5660479A (en) * | 1996-02-16 | 1997-08-26 | Reynolds Consumer Products Inc. | Easy open package header |
US5664329A (en) * | 1995-11-30 | 1997-09-09 | Cosma International Inc. | Method for fabricating a one-piece metal vehicle wheel |
US5729876A (en) * | 1995-05-08 | 1998-03-24 | Ami/Recpro, Inc. | Fastener assembly |
US5747126A (en) * | 1995-11-06 | 1998-05-05 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Ultraviolet excited fusible ribs for plastic zipper profiles |
US5749658A (en) * | 1996-09-12 | 1998-05-12 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Closure arrangement for attachment to outside of bag |
US6074096A (en) * | 1998-02-03 | 2000-06-13 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Closure arrangement having improved thermal stability and methods thereof |
US6154934A (en) * | 1999-02-10 | 2000-12-05 | Illinois Tool Works, Inc. | Reclosable zipper with fusible rib layer |
US6290795B1 (en) * | 1997-09-10 | 2001-09-18 | Murray Edward Bruce Leighton | Splicing unit and method of splicing |
US20020162200A1 (en) * | 2000-07-11 | 2002-11-07 | Offa-Jones Martin John Charles | Reclosable fasteners for plastics bags and other containers |
US6481890B1 (en) * | 2001-07-16 | 2002-11-19 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Reclosable zipper having intermittent thickened flange; package; and methods |
US6691375B1 (en) * | 1999-06-10 | 2004-02-17 | The Glad Products Company | Closure device and method of assembly |
US7216405B2 (en) * | 2004-03-25 | 2007-05-15 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
Family Cites Families (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6088998A (en) | 1998-07-13 | 2000-07-18 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | High compression transverse zipper system |
WO2002062672A1 (en) | 2001-02-08 | 2002-08-15 | The Glad Products Company | Closure device |
GB0116194D0 (en) | 2001-07-03 | 2001-08-22 | Supreme Plastics Holdings Ltd | Reclosable fasteners for plastics bags and the like |
-
2004
- 2004-03-25 US US10/810,747 patent/US7216405B2/en active Active
-
2005
- 2005-03-29 EP EP05006784A patent/EP1579780A3/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2007
- 2007-04-05 US US11/784,379 patent/US20070180667A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (26)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4691373A (en) * | 1985-08-05 | 1987-09-01 | Minigrip, Incorporated | Zipper closure with unitary adhesive cover sheet |
US4673383A (en) * | 1985-11-12 | 1987-06-16 | Minigrip, Incorporated | Fusible rib bonding of fasteners to substrate |
US4835835A (en) * | 1986-08-08 | 1989-06-06 | Minigrip, Inc. | Method and apparatus for making extruded separable fastener with reactivatable adhesive |
US4817188A (en) * | 1988-03-07 | 1989-03-28 | Minigrip, Inc. | Bag with separate attached zipper and method of making |
US4964739A (en) * | 1989-04-06 | 1990-10-23 | Kcl Corp. | Flexible container having tamper evident closure |
US5366294A (en) * | 1989-04-24 | 1994-11-22 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Recloseable package having recloseable profile strips with a heat barrier |
US5216787A (en) * | 1990-10-22 | 1993-06-08 | Reynolds Consumer Products Inc. | Co-extruded profile strip containing lateral webs with adhesive subdivided into ribs |
US5242516A (en) * | 1990-10-22 | 1993-09-07 | Reynolds Consumer Products Inc. | Co-extruded profile strip containing lateral webs with adhesive subdivided into ribs |
US5063644A (en) * | 1991-03-22 | 1991-11-12 | Mobil Oil Corporation | Foldable zipper slider with compression-type latch |
US5301394A (en) * | 1993-07-29 | 1994-04-12 | Mobil Oil Corporation | Plastic reclosable fastener with slider detent lock for locking slider in closed position |
US5442837A (en) * | 1994-06-20 | 1995-08-22 | Mobil Oil Corporation | Integrated end stops for zipper slider |
US5729876A (en) * | 1995-05-08 | 1998-03-24 | Ami/Recpro, Inc. | Fastener assembly |
US5747126A (en) * | 1995-11-06 | 1998-05-05 | Illinois Tool Works Inc. | Ultraviolet excited fusible ribs for plastic zipper profiles |
US5664329A (en) * | 1995-11-30 | 1997-09-09 | Cosma International Inc. | Method for fabricating a one-piece metal vehicle wheel |
US5628566A (en) * | 1996-01-29 | 1997-05-13 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Profile sealing flange |
US5660479A (en) * | 1996-02-16 | 1997-08-26 | Reynolds Consumer Products Inc. | Easy open package header |
US5655273A (en) * | 1996-04-18 | 1997-08-12 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Minimal curl sealing flange |
US5638586A (en) * | 1996-05-13 | 1997-06-17 | Illinois Tool Works, Inc. | Transverse zipper system |
US5749658A (en) * | 1996-09-12 | 1998-05-12 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Closure arrangement for attachment to outside of bag |
US6290795B1 (en) * | 1997-09-10 | 2001-09-18 | Murray Edward Bruce Leighton | Splicing unit and method of splicing |
US6074096A (en) * | 1998-02-03 | 2000-06-13 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Closure arrangement having improved thermal stability and methods thereof |
US6154934A (en) * | 1999-02-10 | 2000-12-05 | Illinois Tool Works, Inc. | Reclosable zipper with fusible rib layer |
US6691375B1 (en) * | 1999-06-10 | 2004-02-17 | The Glad Products Company | Closure device and method of assembly |
US20020162200A1 (en) * | 2000-07-11 | 2002-11-07 | Offa-Jones Martin John Charles | Reclosable fasteners for plastics bags and other containers |
US6481890B1 (en) * | 2001-07-16 | 2002-11-19 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Reclosable zipper having intermittent thickened flange; package; and methods |
US7216405B2 (en) * | 2004-03-25 | 2007-05-15 | Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc. | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1579780A2 (en) | 2005-09-28 |
US7216405B2 (en) | 2007-05-15 |
US20050210638A1 (en) | 2005-09-29 |
EP1579780A3 (en) | 2006-11-02 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20070180667A1 (en) | Teardrop sealant layer for profile and spacer areas for improved sealing and guiding | |
US5827163A (en) | Method making a closure arrangement for attachment to outside of a bag | |
CA2308341C (en) | Reclosable closure arrangement having encapsulated zipper closure, reclosable profiles, and slider device; and methods | |
EP1289845B1 (en) | Slider reclosable bags with dual tamper-evident features | |
EP0657363B1 (en) | Reclosable zipper with tamper evident feature | |
US5794315A (en) | Non-reopening fastener for plastic packaging and method of forming same | |
US6327754B1 (en) | Fastener with slider thereon for use in manufacturing recloseable bags | |
CA2776965C (en) | Carton with plastic reclosable header | |
EP0982117B1 (en) | Intermediate Layer for Fastener Tape | |
US5063639A (en) | Zippered closure for packages | |
EP1344467B1 (en) | Webless zipper | |
US5875611A (en) | Offset sealing method for plastic films | |
US5609420A (en) | Reclosable bag closure with tear containing strips | |
US6993886B2 (en) | Method for sealing zipper assembly to bag making film at three or more points | |
AU2001275419A1 (en) | Slider reclosable bags with dual tamper-evident features | |
EP0834454B1 (en) | Bags with plastic fasteners and method of manufacturing the same | |
US6605026B1 (en) | Tamper-evident slider packages with multiple tear points | |
US20060030471A1 (en) | Hooded reclosable packages and related methods of manufacture | |
US6981936B2 (en) | Method for making slider end stops on zippers for reclosable packaging | |
EP0930241B1 (en) | Package comprising a closure mechanism with a heat-insulating filler | |
EP1053948A2 (en) | Package with a zipper closure arrangement operable by a slider device and having a peelable seal | |
EP1053947A1 (en) | Reclosable tamper-evident closure arrangement | |
CA2308363A1 (en) | Reclosable closure arrangement having peel seal, reclosable profiles, and slider device; and methods | |
CA2308518A1 (en) | Package with a zipper closure arangement operable by a slider device and having a peelable seal |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: CREDIT SUISSE, SYDNEY BRANCH, AUSTRALIA Free format text: NOTICE AND CONFIRMATION OF GRANT OF SECURITY INTEREST IN PATENTS;ASSIGNOR:REYNOLDS CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:020828/0496 Effective date: 20080229 Owner name: CREDIT SUISSE, SYDNEY BRANCH,AUSTRALIA Free format text: NOTICE AND CONFIRMATION OF GRANT OF SECURITY INTEREST IN PATENTS;ASSIGNOR:REYNOLDS CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:020828/0496 Effective date: 20080229 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: REYNOLDS CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC., VIRGINIA Free format text: TERMINATION AND RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CREDIT SUISSE, SYDNEY BRANCH;REEL/FRAME:023546/0309 Effective date: 20091105 Owner name: REYNOLDS CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.,VIRGINIA Free format text: TERMINATION AND RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CREDIT SUISSE, SYDNEY BRANCH;REEL/FRAME:023546/0309 Effective date: 20091105 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, NEW YORK Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNORS:CLOSURE SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL INC.;REYNOLDS CONSUMER PRODUCTS INC.;REYNOLDS FOIL INC.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:023574/0312 Effective date: 20091105 Owner name: THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON,NEW YORK Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNORS:CLOSURE SYSTEMS INTERNATIONAL INC.;REYNOLDS CONSUMER PRODUCTS INC.;REYNOLDS FOIL INC.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:023574/0312 Effective date: 20091105 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: REYNOLDS CONSUMER PRODUCTS LLC (F/K/A REYNOLDS FOIL INC.), ILLINOIS Free format text: RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST IN CERTAIN PATENT COLLATERAL;ASSIGNOR:THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, AS COLLATERAL AGENT;REEL/FRAME:051798/0051 Effective date: 20200204 Owner name: REYNOLDS PRESTO PRODUCTS INC. (F/K/A REYNOLDS CONSUMER PRODUCTS, INC.), ILLINOIS Free format text: RELEASE OF SECURITY INTEREST IN CERTAIN PATENT COLLATERAL;ASSIGNOR:THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, AS COLLATERAL AGENT;REEL/FRAME:051798/0051 Effective date: 20200204 |