US20090057185A1 - Blister pack with integral access tool - Google Patents
Blister pack with integral access tool Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090057185A1 US20090057185A1 US12/293,036 US29303607A US2009057185A1 US 20090057185 A1 US20090057185 A1 US 20090057185A1 US 29303607 A US29303607 A US 29303607A US 2009057185 A1 US2009057185 A1 US 2009057185A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- blister
- tool
- blister pack
- flange
- segment
- 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
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61J—CONTAINERS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR MEDICAL OR PHARMACEUTICAL PURPOSES; DEVICES OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR BRINGING PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTS INTO PARTICULAR PHYSICAL OR ADMINISTERING FORMS; DEVICES FOR ADMINISTERING FOOD OR MEDICINES ORALLY; BABY COMFORTERS; DEVICES FOR RECEIVING SPITTLE
- A61J1/00—Containers specially adapted for medical or pharmaceutical purposes
- A61J1/03—Containers specially adapted for medical or pharmaceutical purposes for pills or tablets
- A61J1/035—Blister-type containers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
- B65D75/28—Articles or materials wholly enclosed in composite wrappers, i.e. wrappers formed by associating or interconnecting two or more sheets or blanks
- B65D75/30—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding
- B65D75/32—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents
- B65D75/325—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents one sheet being recessed, and the other being a flat not- rigid sheet, e.g. puncturable or peelable foil
- B65D75/327—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents one sheet being recessed, and the other being a flat not- rigid sheet, e.g. puncturable or peelable foil and forming several compartments
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- 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
- B65D2575/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
- B65D2575/28—Articles or materials wholly enclosed in composite wrappers, i.e. wrappers formed by association or interconnecting two or more sheets or blanks
- B65D2575/30—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding
- B65D2575/32—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding one or both sheets or blanks being recessed to accommodate contents
- B65D2575/3209—Details
- B65D2575/3218—Details with special means for gaining access to the contents
- B65D2575/3245—Details with special means for gaining access to the contents by peeling off the non-rigid sheet
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to blister packs and, more specifically, to blister packs including a tool for accessing an interior of a blister.
- a blister pack is a type of package that protects one or more items or articles, by sealing the articles between a substantially planar substrate and a concave compartment structure.
- the concave compartment structure is typically referred to as a blister or a bubble.
- Blisters are typically formed of a plastic or foil type material and the substrate is frequently paper, foil, plastic, paperboard or a laminate of one or more of these materials.
- the encased article is typically accessed by pushing the article, from the bubble side of the blister pack, until the article breaks through the substrate.
- the blister pack includes lines of demarcation that define each segment having an individual blister. Each line of demarcation may be a frangible line, such as a perforated line, that facilitates separation of a segment of a blister from the blister pack.
- a problem with blisters is that it is often difficult to push the product encased in the blister through the blister substrate. This problem can exist because the substrate is made particularly durable to maintain the freshness and efficacy of the encased product, or to inhibit removal of the encased product in order to increase the child-resistance rating. Thus, a need exists for a means for facilitating removal of an encased item or article from a blister.
- One solution has entailed using a tool, which is not packaged with the blister pack, to puncture or cut the substrate of a blister.
- a tool such as this is not always available in every environment. Further, the tool may have a cutting blade that is a hazard to users.
- Another solution is to include a cutting apparatus in, or as part of, the package that includes the blister pack. However, these cutting apparatuses are manufactured separately from the blister packs and the rest of the package, thereby adding to material and manufacturing costs.
- the present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a blister pack that includes at least one blister segment with substrate covering a blister bubble opening and at least one integral tool for penetrating the substrate of the blister segment.
- the tool is at least partially formed from a flanged portion of the blister pack.
- the blister pack includes a tray and a substrate.
- the flanged portion of the blister pack includes a substantially planar portion of the tray to which the substrate is attached. Lines of demarcation, including frangible lines and perforated lines, define the tool in the blister pack and facilitate detachment of the tool from the blister pack.
- the tool comprises a reinforced region and a blade region for cutting and/or puncturing substrate material.
- the reinforced region reinforces the blade region such that the blade region can penetrate, puncture or cut the substrate of a blister without undue deformation that might limit the tool's effectiveness.
- the reinforced region is in the form of a raised member.
- the raised member is offset from an edge of the tool.
- the raised member is proximate a cutting edge of the tool.
- the tool is at least partially formed from a flanged portion of the blister pack and reinforcement is provided by a folded-over tab structure.
- the reinforced region of the tool is formed by folding the tab structure of the flanged portion along a fold line.
- the tool includes a blister bubble that defines the reinforced region.
- a system including a blister pack and a package.
- the blister pack includes at least one blister.
- a tool for penetrating the substrate of a blister of the blister pack is integral to the package.
- a method for accessing an article in a blister in a blister pack includes at least one blister and at least one tool.
- the method includes detaching a tool from the blister pack and using the tool to penetrate the substrate of a blister.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of blister pack, according to the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the blister pack of FIG. 1 , according to the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the blister pack of FIG. 1 , wherein an exemplary embodiment of a blister segment is being detached from the blister pack, according to the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is an elevation view showing the blister pack of FIG. 1 , with an exemplary embodiment of a detached blister segment poised for use as an exemplary embodiment of a tool to puncture substrate over an opening of a selected blister bubble, according to the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is an elevation view similar to FIG. 4 , showing the exemplary embodiment of the tool being used to puncture substrate over an opening of a selected blister bubble, according to the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the blister pack of FIG. 1 and tool in use as shown in FIG. 5 , according to the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view that is essentially the same view as FIG. 6 but with a reinforcing tab corner folded in reverse of its position in FIG. 6 and disposed on the side of the blister segment opposite the blister bubble, according to the present invention.
- FIGS. 8 and 9 are related perspective views showing two steps (pre-puncturing and puncturing, respectively) in the use of an exemplary embodiment of a detached tool to open a detached blister segment, according to the present invention.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a tool disposed beside an opened blister segment, according to the present invention.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a tool using a blade portion that is proximate a reinforcing raised member to puncture substrate over a blister bubble opening of a blister segment, according to the present invention.
- FIG. 1 illustrates certain of the various aspects of exemplary embodiments of a blister pack that includes at least one blister and at least one tool for penetrating the substrate of a selected blister.
- the tool includes a strengthening element that provides structural rigidity to the tool in general and to a penetrating corner of the tool in particular.
- blister bubble will be used to refer to the cavity, blister, bubble or compartment to which access is sought through use of the tool.
- blister segment will be used to refer to the segment of the blister pack tray that may be separated from the tray itself.
- the blister segment comprises a blister bubble at least partially surrounded by a flange and having substrate covering the opening to the interior of the blister bubble.
- the blister pack 10 includes multiple individual blister segments 12 (best shown in FIG. 3 ).
- the blister pack 10 includes a tray Y that can be formed from a plastic type sheet to include cavities or bubbles 14 .
- the tray Y of the exemplary embodiment is a substantially planar structure having blister bubbles 14 .
- the size and shape of the bubbles 14 are design choices that are made such that one or more of an article can be disposed within a blister bubble 14 .
- the blister pack 10 also includes a planar substrate 16 (shown in FIG. 7 ) that is formed from one or more layers of material.
- the substrate 16 may be paper, foil, plastic, paperboard or a laminate of one or more of these materials.
- the substrate 16 is attached to a substantially planar portion of the tray Y to cover the openings of the blister bubbles 14 and thereby enclose or seal articles within the blister bubbles 14 .
- the planar portion of the tray Y and the corresponding attached portion of the substrate 16 define a flanged portion F of the blister pack 10 , and of each blister segment 12 .
- Each portion of the substrate 16 that is disposed over the open end of a blister bubble 14 defines a gate 18 (shown in FIG. 7 ).
- Each blister segment 12 is defined in the blister pack 10 by lines of demarcation 20 .
- the lines of demarcation 20 facilitate detachment of a single blister segment 12 from the blister pack 10 .
- the lines of demarcation 20 may be frangible lines or perforated lines.
- the lines of demarcation 20 may be typical weakened lines of severance.
- the flanged portion F of each blister segment 12 includes a penetrating corner 32 and a folding corner 34 .
- the folding corner 34 is a tab at a corner of the blister segment 12 that is defined in part by a fold line 30 .
- the penetrating corner 32 and the folding corner 34 are defined in part by a common first edge E 1 and are further defined by an opposite edge E 2 , E 3 , respectively.
- Opposite ends of the fold line 30 are offset a distance L 2 , L 3 from the edges E 3 , E 1 , respectively.
- the distances L 2 , L 3 are substantially the same.
- the folding corner 34 of the blister segment 12 is folded along fold line 30 and toward the blister bubble 14 .
- the folding corner 34 may be folded away from the blister bubble 14 , as shown in FIGS. 7-10 .
- the folded corner 34 and the flanged portion F, which the folding corner 34 substantially overlaps, define a reinforced region R 1 .
- a blade region B 1 of the flanged portion F is defined between the reinforced region R 1 and the edges E 1 , E 2 .
- the blade region B 1 includes the penetrating corner 32 .
- the reinforced region R 1 increases the structural rigidity of the adjacent blade region B 1 , including the penetrating corner 32 , such that the blade region B 1 can withstand an increased applied force before substantially bending, buckling or otherwise deforming.
- the exemplary blister segment 12 can be used as a tool T 1 for penetrating the gate 18 of a selected blister segment 12 ′.
- the selected blister segment 12 ′ to be opened may be attached to the blister pack 10 , as shown in FIGS. 4-7 , or may be detached from the blister pack 10 , as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 .
- the penetrating corner 32 of the tool T 1 is forced through the gate 18 of the selected blister segment 12 ′, as shown in FIG. 5 , thereby penetrating, or puncturing, the selected blister segment 12 ′.
- the edges E 1 , E 2 of the tool T 1 can be used to make and enlarge a cut C, as shown in FIG. 7 , in order to facilitate access to the article.
- the cut C may be made to facilitate tearing of the gate 18 as the article is pushed through it, to facilitate tearing gate 18 with a finger, or to create an opening that is large enough to allow a user to remove the article.
- each blister segment 12 (shown in FIG. 3 ) includes a reinforcing bubble 40 that is disposed in a penetrating corner 42 of the flanged portion F.
- reinforcing bubbles 40 are formed in the tray Y along with bubbles 14 .
- Each reinforcing bubble 40 can be any suitable size or shape such that it increases the effective thickness of the flanged portion F to provide a reinforced region.
- the reinforcing bubble 40 may be disposed such that it is offset from the edges E 2 , E 4 .
- a blade region B 2 (shown in FIG. 3 ) of the flanged portion F is defined between the reinforcing bubble 40 and edges E 2 , E 4 .
- the reinforcing bubble 40 increases the structural rigidity of the blade region B 2 , including the penetrating corner 42 , such that the blister segment 12 can be used as a tool T 2 for penetrating the gate 18 of a selected blister segment 12 ′.
- the penetrating corner 42 of the tool T 2 is forced through the gate 18 of a selected blister segment 12 ′ thereby penetrating the selected blister segment 12 ′.
- the tool T 2 can be used to propagate the cut C to facilitate access to the article.
- the reinforcing or structural element that provides the reinforced region is not limited to a reinforcing bubble 40 formed from the tray Y. Rather, the structural element may be a protuberance in the form of a rib, a raised element, or an element that is attached to the tray Y or substrate 16 to provide the same functionality.
- the tools T 1 , T 2 do not have to be integral to a blister segment 12 , as described above.
- the tool can be a flanged portion F of the blister pack 10 , defined by lines of demarcation 20 , or attached by a perforated edge.
- the blister pack 10 is packaged in a carton (not shown).
- the carton includes a flap with a reinforcing or structural element, such as a fold line, such that the flap can be used as a tool for accessing a selected blister segment 12 ′.
Abstract
A blister pack (10) includes a blister segment (12) and a tool (T1, T2), both integrally formed with a tray (Y). The blister segment (12) has a blister bubble (14) at least partially surrounded by a blister flange (F). Substrate (16) serving as a gate (18) covers the opening of the blister bubble (14). The tool (T1, T2) is adapted for puncturing the substrate gate (16/18) to gain access to the interior of the blister bubble (14). A blister segment (12) is configured and has reinforcing features (40, 34) so that it may serve as the tool (T1, T2).
Description
- This invention relates generally to blister packs and, more specifically, to blister packs including a tool for accessing an interior of a blister.
- A blister pack is a type of package that protects one or more items or articles, by sealing the articles between a substantially planar substrate and a concave compartment structure. The concave compartment structure is typically referred to as a blister or a bubble. Blisters are typically formed of a plastic or foil type material and the substrate is frequently paper, foil, plastic, paperboard or a laminate of one or more of these materials. The encased article is typically accessed by pushing the article, from the bubble side of the blister pack, until the article breaks through the substrate. Frequently, the blister pack includes lines of demarcation that define each segment having an individual blister. Each line of demarcation may be a frangible line, such as a perforated line, that facilitates separation of a segment of a blister from the blister pack.
- A problem with blisters is that it is often difficult to push the product encased in the blister through the blister substrate. This problem can exist because the substrate is made particularly durable to maintain the freshness and efficacy of the encased product, or to inhibit removal of the encased product in order to increase the child-resistance rating. Thus, a need exists for a means for facilitating removal of an encased item or article from a blister.
- One solution has entailed using a tool, which is not packaged with the blister pack, to puncture or cut the substrate of a blister. However, a tool such as this is not always available in every environment. Further, the tool may have a cutting blade that is a hazard to users. Another solution is to include a cutting apparatus in, or as part of, the package that includes the blister pack. However, these cutting apparatuses are manufactured separately from the blister packs and the rest of the package, thereby adding to material and manufacturing costs.
- Although prior attempts to solve the problem of removing an encased article from its protective seal are known, there remains a need for a convenient and cost effective means for safely and efficiently penetrating the substrate or protective seal of a blister.
- The present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art by providing a blister pack that includes at least one blister segment with substrate covering a blister bubble opening and at least one integral tool for penetrating the substrate of the blister segment.
- According to one aspect of the invention the tool is at least partially formed from a flanged portion of the blister pack. The blister pack includes a tray and a substrate. The flanged portion of the blister pack includes a substantially planar portion of the tray to which the substrate is attached. Lines of demarcation, including frangible lines and perforated lines, define the tool in the blister pack and facilitate detachment of the tool from the blister pack.
- According to another aspect of the invention, the tool comprises a reinforced region and a blade region for cutting and/or puncturing substrate material. The reinforced region reinforces the blade region such that the blade region can penetrate, puncture or cut the substrate of a blister without undue deformation that might limit the tool's effectiveness. In one facet of this aspect, the reinforced region is in the form of a raised member. In another facet of this aspect the raised member is offset from an edge of the tool. In an additional facet of this aspect, the raised member is proximate a cutting edge of the tool.
- According to still another aspect of the invention, the tool is at least partially formed from a flanged portion of the blister pack and reinforcement is provided by a folded-over tab structure. The reinforced region of the tool is formed by folding the tab structure of the flanged portion along a fold line.
- According to an additional aspect of the invention, the tool includes a blister bubble that defines the reinforced region.
- According to yet another aspect of the invention, a system is provided including a blister pack and a package. The blister pack includes at least one blister. A tool for penetrating the substrate of a blister of the blister pack is integral to the package.
- According to further aspect of the invention, a method for accessing an article in a blister in a blister pack is provided. The blister pack includes at least one blister and at least one tool. The method includes detaching a tool from the blister pack and using the tool to penetrate the substrate of a blister.
- Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present invention will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following drawings and detailed description. All such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are included within the scope of the present teaching and are protected by the accompanying claims.
- The foregoing has broadly outlined some of the aspects and features of the present invention, which should be construed to be merely illustrative of various potential applications of the invention. Other beneficial results can be obtained by applying the disclosed information in a different manner or by combining various aspects of the disclosed embodiments. Accordingly, other aspects and a more comprehensive understanding of the invention may be obtained by referring to the detailed description of the exemplary embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in addition to the scope of the invention defined by the claims.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of blister pack, according to the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a plan view showing the blister pack ofFIG. 1 , according to the present invention. -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the blister pack ofFIG. 1 , wherein an exemplary embodiment of a blister segment is being detached from the blister pack, according to the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is an elevation view showing the blister pack ofFIG. 1 , with an exemplary embodiment of a detached blister segment poised for use as an exemplary embodiment of a tool to puncture substrate over an opening of a selected blister bubble, according to the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is an elevation view similar toFIG. 4 , showing the exemplary embodiment of the tool being used to puncture substrate over an opening of a selected blister bubble, according to the present invention. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the blister pack ofFIG. 1 and tool in use as shown inFIG. 5 , according to the present invention. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view that is essentially the same view asFIG. 6 but with a reinforcing tab corner folded in reverse of its position inFIG. 6 and disposed on the side of the blister segment opposite the blister bubble, according to the present invention. -
FIGS. 8 and 9 , are related perspective views showing two steps (pre-puncturing and puncturing, respectively) in the use of an exemplary embodiment of a detached tool to open a detached blister segment, according to the present invention. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a tool disposed beside an opened blister segment, according to the present invention. -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a tool using a blade portion that is proximate a reinforcing raised member to puncture substrate over a blister bubble opening of a blister segment, according to the present invention. - As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein. It must be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms, and combinations thereof. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as an illustration, specimen, model, or pattern. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. In other instances, well-known components, systems, materials, or methods have not been described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present invention. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.
- Referring now to the drawings, wherein like numerals indicate like elements throughout the several views, the drawings illustrate certain of the various aspects of exemplary embodiments of a blister pack that includes at least one blister and at least one tool for penetrating the substrate of a selected blister. The tool includes a strengthening element that provides structural rigidity to the tool in general and to a penetrating corner of the tool in particular.
- To help distinguish the various elements of the invention, the term “blister bubble” will be used to refer to the cavity, blister, bubble or compartment to which access is sought through use of the tool. The term “blister segment” will be used to refer to the segment of the blister pack tray that may be separated from the tray itself. The blister segment comprises a blister bubble at least partially surrounded by a flange and having substrate covering the opening to the interior of the blister bubble.
- Referring first to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , anexemplary blister pack 10 is illustrated that includes multiple individual blister segments 12 (best shown inFIG. 3 ). Theblister pack 10 includes a tray Y that can be formed from a plastic type sheet to include cavities or bubbles 14. The tray Y of the exemplary embodiment is a substantially planar structure having blister bubbles 14. The size and shape of thebubbles 14 are design choices that are made such that one or more of an article can be disposed within ablister bubble 14. Theblister pack 10 also includes a planar substrate 16 (shown inFIG. 7 ) that is formed from one or more layers of material. Thesubstrate 16 may be paper, foil, plastic, paperboard or a laminate of one or more of these materials. Thesubstrate 16 is attached to a substantially planar portion of the tray Y to cover the openings of the blister bubbles 14 and thereby enclose or seal articles within the blister bubbles 14. - The planar portion of the tray Y and the corresponding attached portion of the
substrate 16 define a flanged portion F of theblister pack 10, and of eachblister segment 12. Each portion of thesubstrate 16 that is disposed over the open end of ablister bubble 14 defines a gate 18 (shown inFIG. 7 ). Eachblister segment 12 is defined in theblister pack 10 by lines ofdemarcation 20. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 , 2 and 3 simultaneously, the lines ofdemarcation 20 facilitate detachment of asingle blister segment 12 from theblister pack 10. For example, the lines ofdemarcation 20 may be frangible lines or perforated lines. In general, the lines ofdemarcation 20 may be typical weakened lines of severance. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , in an exemplary embodiment, the flanged portion F of eachblister segment 12 includes a penetratingcorner 32 and afolding corner 34. Thefolding corner 34 is a tab at a corner of theblister segment 12 that is defined in part by afold line 30. The penetratingcorner 32 and thefolding corner 34 are defined in part by a common first edge E1 and are further defined by an opposite edge E2, E3, respectively. - An end of the
fold line 30 that is adjacent to the penetratingcorner 32, or is otherwise adjacent to the first edge E1, is offset from the edge E2 by a distance L1. Opposite ends of thefold line 30 are offset a distance L2, L3 from the edges E3, E1, respectively. In the exemplary embodiment, the distances L2, L3 are substantially the same. - Referring to
FIGS. 5 and 6 , thefolding corner 34 of theblister segment 12 is folded alongfold line 30 and toward theblister bubble 14. Alternatively, thefolding corner 34 may be folded away from theblister bubble 14, as shown inFIGS. 7-10 . The foldedcorner 34 and the flanged portion F, which thefolding corner 34 substantially overlaps, define a reinforced region R1. A blade region B1 of the flanged portion F is defined between the reinforced region R1 and the edges E1, E2. The blade region B1 includes the penetratingcorner 32. - The reinforced region R1 increases the structural rigidity of the adjacent blade region B1, including the penetrating
corner 32, such that the blade region B1 can withstand an increased applied force before substantially bending, buckling or otherwise deforming. Accordingly, theexemplary blister segment 12 can be used as a tool T1 for penetrating thegate 18 of a selectedblister segment 12′. The selectedblister segment 12′ to be opened may be attached to theblister pack 10, as shown inFIGS. 4-7 , or may be detached from theblister pack 10, as shown inFIGS. 8 and 9 . - To access articles that are sealed in a selected
blister segment 12′, the penetratingcorner 32 of the tool T1 is forced through thegate 18 of the selectedblister segment 12′, as shown inFIG. 5 , thereby penetrating, or puncturing, the selectedblister segment 12′. The edges E1, E2 of the tool T1 can be used to make and enlarge a cut C, as shown inFIG. 7 , in order to facilitate access to the article. To access the encased article, the cut C may be made to facilitate tearing of thegate 18 as the article is pushed through it, to facilitate tearinggate 18 with a finger, or to create an opening that is large enough to allow a user to remove the article. - Referring again to
FIGS. 1-4 , in an exemplary embodiment, each blister segment 12 (shown inFIG. 3 ) includes a reinforcingbubble 40 that is disposed in a penetratingcorner 42 of the flanged portion F. In this embodiment, reinforcingbubbles 40 are formed in the tray Y along with bubbles 14. Each reinforcingbubble 40 can be any suitable size or shape such that it increases the effective thickness of the flanged portion F to provide a reinforced region. - The reinforcing
bubble 40 may be disposed such that it is offset from the edges E2, E4. A blade region B2 (shown inFIG. 3 ) of the flanged portion F is defined between the reinforcingbubble 40 and edges E2, E4. The reinforcingbubble 40 increases the structural rigidity of the blade region B2, including the penetratingcorner 42, such that theblister segment 12 can be used as a tool T2 for penetrating thegate 18 of a selectedblister segment 12′. - Referring to now
FIG. 11 , the penetratingcorner 42 of the tool T2 is forced through thegate 18 of a selectedblister segment 12′ thereby penetrating the selectedblister segment 12′. Once the tool T2 has punctured the blister to form a cut C, the tool T2 can be used to propagate the cut C to facilitate access to the article. - It should be noted that the reinforcing or structural element that provides the reinforced region is not limited to a reinforcing
bubble 40 formed from the tray Y. Rather, the structural element may be a protuberance in the form of a rib, a raised element, or an element that is attached to the tray Y orsubstrate 16 to provide the same functionality. - It should also be noted that the tools T1, T2 do not have to be integral to a
blister segment 12, as described above. For example, the tool can be a flanged portion F of theblister pack 10, defined by lines ofdemarcation 20, or attached by a perforated edge. - In additional alternative embodiments, the
blister pack 10 is packaged in a carton (not shown). The carton includes a flap with a reinforcing or structural element, such as a fold line, such that the flap can be used as a tool for accessing a selectedblister segment 12′. - The law does not require and it is economically prohibitive to illustrate and teach every possible embodiment of the present claims. Hence, the above-described embodiments are merely exemplary illustrations of implementations set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the invention. Variations, modifications, and combinations may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims. All such variations, modifications, and combinations are included herein by the scope of this disclosure and the following claims.
Claims (17)
1. A blister pack (10) comprising:
a tray (Y) comprising
at least one blister segment (12, 12′) integrally formed with said tray (Y), said blister segment (12, 12′) comprising a blister bubble (14) having an opening, and
at least one tool (T1, T2) integrally formed with said tray (Y); and
substrate (18) substantially covering said opening of said blister bubble (14);
wherein said at least one tool (T1, T2) is adapted for puncturing said substrate (18) to gain access to an interior of said bubble blister (14).
2. The blister pack of claim 1 , wherein said at least one tool (T1, T2) is adapted for separation from said tray (Y).
3. The blister pack of claim 2 , wherein said at least one tool (T1, T2) is adapted for separation from said tray (Y) by means of weakened lines of demarcation (20) that define a tool perimeter.
4. The blister pack of claim 1 , wherein said at least one tool (T1, T2) comprises a tool flange (F) having at least two perimeter edges (E2/E4, E1/E2) that intersect to form a puncturing member (32, 42) for puncturing said substrate (18).
5. The blister pack of claim 4 , wherein said tool flange (F) is adapted for withstanding deformation when a force is applied thereto.
6. The blister pack of claim 5 , wherein said tool flange (F) is adapted for withstanding deformation by said tool flange further comprising a reinforcement member (34, 40).
7. The blister pack of claim 6 , wherein said reinforcement member comprises a protuberance (40) extending outwardly of a plane of said tool flange (F).
8. The blister pack of claim 6 , wherein said reinforcement member (34, 40) is disposed proximate said puncturing member (32, 42).
9. The blister pack of claim 6 , wherein said reinforcement member (34, 40) comprises a tab (34) foldably adjoined to said tool flange (F).
10. The blister pack of claim 9 , wherein said tab (34) is adapted for being folded out of a plane of said tool flange (F).
11. The blister pack of claim 1 , wherein said at least one tool (T1, T2) comprises at least one of said at least one blister segment (12) adapted for withstanding deformation when a force is applied thereto.
12. The blister pack of claim 11 , wherein said at least one blister segment (12) adapted for withstanding deformation comprises a blister flange (F) extending from at least a portion of a perimeter of said opening of said blister bubble (14), said blister flange (F) having at least two perimeter edges (E2/E4, E1/E2) that intersect to form a puncturing member (32, 42) for puncturing said substrate (18) and wherein said blister flange (F) is adapted for withstanding deformation when a force is applied thereto.
13. The blister pack of claim 12 , wherein said blister flange (F) is adapted for withstanding deformation by said blister flange (F) further comprising a reinforcement member (34, 40).
14. The blister pack of claim 13 , wherein said reinforcement member comprises a protuberance (40) extending outwardly of a plane of said blister flange (F).
15. The blister pack of claim 13 , wherein said reinforcement member (34, 40) is disposed proximate said puncturing member (32, 42).
16. The blister pack of claim 17 , wherein said reinforcement member (34, 40) comprises a tab (34) foldably adjoined to said blister flange (F).
17. The blister pack of claim 16 , wherein said tab (34) is adapted for being folded out of a plane of said blister flange (F).
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/293,036 US20090057185A1 (en) | 2006-03-15 | 2007-03-15 | Blister pack with integral access tool |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US78313706P | 2006-03-15 | 2006-03-15 | |
PCT/US2007/064100 WO2007106901A1 (en) | 2006-03-15 | 2007-03-15 | Blister pack with integral access tool |
US12/293,036 US20090057185A1 (en) | 2006-03-15 | 2007-03-15 | Blister pack with integral access tool |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090057185A1 true US20090057185A1 (en) | 2009-03-05 |
Family
ID=38291231
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/293,036 Abandoned US20090057185A1 (en) | 2006-03-15 | 2007-03-15 | Blister pack with integral access tool |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20090057185A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1996483A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2007226508A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007106901A1 (en) |
Cited By (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060104765A1 (en) * | 2004-07-12 | 2006-05-18 | Shoji Yuyama | Medicine feeding device |
US20090057421A1 (en) * | 2007-09-04 | 2009-03-05 | Suorsa Peter A | Data management |
DE102009050123A1 (en) * | 2009-10-21 | 2010-10-14 | Siemens Medical Instruments Pte. Ltd. | Functional packaging for ear tip of hearing aid, comprises carrier and packaging film, where carrier has greater stiffness than packaging film, and recess is arranged in peripheral edge of carrier |
KR200475999Y1 (en) * | 2010-05-31 | 2015-01-19 | 한미사이언스 주식회사 | The PTP package comprising opening means |
US20160304260A1 (en) * | 2013-12-10 | 2016-10-20 | Blisspack Co., Ltd. | Blister packaging for simultaneously housing packaging container for refill- or cartridge-type content and case for accommodating same |
US20190037996A1 (en) * | 2016-02-12 | 2019-02-07 | Miho AZUMA | Nail art palette |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
ITMO20060407A1 (en) * | 2006-12-14 | 2008-06-15 | Emilplast S R L | REINFORCEMENT AND REINFORCEMENT PRODUCT METHOD WITH THE REINFORCEMENT METHOD |
GB2453588B (en) * | 2007-10-12 | 2012-03-28 | Protomed Ltd | A packaging system |
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KR200475999Y1 (en) * | 2010-05-31 | 2015-01-19 | 한미사이언스 주식회사 | The PTP package comprising opening means |
US20160304260A1 (en) * | 2013-12-10 | 2016-10-20 | Blisspack Co., Ltd. | Blister packaging for simultaneously housing packaging container for refill- or cartridge-type content and case for accommodating same |
US20190037996A1 (en) * | 2016-02-12 | 2019-02-07 | Miho AZUMA | Nail art palette |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2007106901A1 (en) | 2007-09-20 |
WO2007106901B1 (en) | 2007-12-13 |
EP1996483A1 (en) | 2008-12-03 |
AU2007226508A1 (en) | 2007-09-20 |
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Legal Events
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: MEADWESTVACO CORPORATION, VIRGINIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:GELARDI, JOHN;RIGBY, WILLIAM;REEL/FRAME:021540/0957 Effective date: 20080915 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |