US20100098814A1 - Flexible Package With Stress Riser Opening - Google Patents
Flexible Package With Stress Riser Opening Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100098814A1 US20100098814A1 US12/346,204 US34620408A US2010098814A1 US 20100098814 A1 US20100098814 A1 US 20100098814A1 US 34620408 A US34620408 A US 34620408A US 2010098814 A1 US2010098814 A1 US 2010098814A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- product
- heat
- heat seal
- package
- stress
- 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
- 239000002648 laminated material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 41
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 20
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 claims description 24
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 20
- -1 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 7
- 229920001222 biopolymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000098 polyolefin Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920002678 cellulose Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000001913 cellulose Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920000139 polyethylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000005020 polyethylene terephthalate Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000000630 rising effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000013311 vegetables Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 claims 1
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 238000013022 venting Methods 0.000 description 20
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 7
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000032798 delamination Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000002360 preparation method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 238000010411 cooking Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000005520 cutting process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000005022 packaging material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000004806 packaging method and process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920000747 poly(lactic acid) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004626 polylactic acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920006264 polyurethane film Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000010025 steaming Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
- B29C65/18—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tools
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
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- B29C65/76—Making non-permanent or releasable joints
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- B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
- B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
- B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
- B29C66/11—Joint cross-sections comprising a single joint-segment, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising a single joint-segment in the joint cross-section
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- B29C66/1122—Single lap to lap joints, i.e. overlap joints
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- B29C66/232—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint lines, e.g. of the weld lines said joint lines being multiple and parallel or being in the form of tessellations said joint lines being multiple and parallel, i.e. the joint being formed by several parallel joint lines
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- B29C66/8141—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined
- B29C66/81433—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined being toothed, i.e. comprising several teeth or pins, or being patterned
- B29C66/81435—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the design of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the surface geometry of the part of the pressing elements, e.g. welding jaws or clamps, coming into contact with the parts to be joined being toothed, i.e. comprising several teeth or pins, or being patterned comprising several parallel ridges, e.g. for crimping
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- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
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- B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
- B29C65/74—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by welding and severing, or by joining and severing, the severing being performed in the area to be joined, next to the area to be joined, in the joint area or next to the joint area
- B29C65/745—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by welding and severing, or by joining and severing, the severing being performed in the area to be joined, next to the area to be joined, in the joint area or next to the joint area using a single unit having both a severing tool and a welding tool
- B29C65/7451—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by welding and severing, or by joining and severing, the severing being performed in the area to be joined, next to the area to be joined, in the joint area or next to the joint area using a single unit having both a severing tool and a welding tool the severing tool and the welding tool being movable with respect to one-another
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- B29C66/40—General aspects of joining substantially flat articles, e.g. plates, sheets or web-like materials; Making flat seams in tubular or hollow articles; Joining single elements to substantially flat surfaces
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
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- B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
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- B29C66/735—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined
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Definitions
- the present application relates to flexible food packages and more particularly relates to openings for flexible food packages that vent during food preparation.
- packages for both storing and preparing food desirably seal the food during storage and a vent during preparation.
- packages used to store and then cook vegetables in microwave ovens may need to vent to release steam.
- these packages may vent in an unpredictable location and manner, which may interfere with the cooking process.
- the package may seal the food during storage, and may provide easy access to the food after cooking.
- the present application provides a sealed package.
- the package includes a first side and a second side, wherein the first side and the second side each comprise a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer, the product-side layers of the first and second sides at least partially heat sealed together to form a heat seal between the first and second sides such that the heat seal comprises a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material.
- the present invention also provides a method for making a sealed package.
- the method includes: (a) providing a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer; and (b) heat sealing the product-side layer of a first portion of the laminate material and the product-side layer of a second portion of the laminate material to form a heat seal comprising a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material.
- the present invention also provides a method for preparing food.
- the method includes: (a) providing a sealed package comprising a first side and a second side, wherein the first side and the second side each comprise a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer, the product-side layers of the first and second sides at least partially heat sealed together to form a heat seal between the first and second sides such that the heat seal comprises a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material, and wherein the sealed package further comprises a food on the inside of the sealed package; and (b) microwaving the sealed package to heat the food and generate steam; wherein the pressure of the steam forms a break in the product-side layer at the location of the stress riser, and wherein the pressure of the steam delaminates the product-side layer and the film layer at the location of the break.
- the present invention also provides a heat sealing die for heat sealing a package.
- the heat sealing die includes a first heat seal jaw having a first primary seal face with a first periphery and a first stress-riser seal face extending outwardly away from the first periphery; and a second heat seal jaw having a second primary seal face with a second periphery and a second stress-riser seal face extending outwardly away from the second periphery.
- the heat sealing die is adapted to compress the first heat seal jaw and the second heat seal jaw about the package to produce a primary heat seal where the first primary seal face and the second primary seal face contact the package and a stress riser adjacent to the primary heat seal where the first stress-riser seal face and the second stress-riser seal face contact the package.
- the present invention also provides a system for producing a heat-sealed package.
- the system includes a heat sealing die with a first and a second heat seal jaw and a feeder adapted to feed the package between the first and second heat seal jaws.
- the first heat seal jaw includes a first primary seal face with a first periphery and a first stress-riser seal face extending outwardly away from the first periphery.
- the second heat seal jaw includes a second primary seal face with a second periphery and a second stress-riser seal face extending outwardly away from the second periphery.
- the heat sealing die is adapted to compress the first heat seal jaw and the second heat seal jaw about the package to produce a primary heat seal where the first primary seal face and the second primary seal face contact the package and a stress riser adjacent to the primary heat seal where the first stress-riser seal face and the second stress-riser seal face contact the package.
- FIG. 1 shows an end view of a laminate material suitable for use in a sealed package in accordance with an embodiment of this invention.
- FIG. 2 shows a side elevation view of a sealed package made in accordance with an embodiment of this invention.
- FIG. 3A shows a partial side elevation view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 featuring a stress riser.
- FIG. 3B shows the progression of tearing of the product-side layer and the delamination of the product-side layer and film layer when a steam vent is formed.
- FIG. 4 shows an end view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 featuring a heat seal.
- FIG. 5 shows an end view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 featuring a heat seal vent.
- FIG. 6 also shows an end view of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 featuring a heat seal vent.
- FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of heat seal dies in accordance with an embodiment of this invention.
- FIG. 8 shows a part of a system for producing a heat sealed package having a stress riser.
- Methods have been developed according to aspects of this invention for making a sealed package by providing a laminate material and forming a heat seal between the laminate material.
- the instant heat seals include a stress riser so that they may reliably vent from a predictable location.
- the package may vent steam between the layers of the laminate material.
- the present application provides improved sealed packages and methods for making sealed packages. According to a particular embodiment, the present application provides sealed packages suitable for preparing food in a microwave oven.
- the packages and methods described herein may be useful for packaging essentially any product.
- the materials and methods especially may be useful for packaging products that are prepared by steaming.
- the packaging materials may comprise a heat seal between two portions of a laminate material, wherein the heat seal is stronger that the bond between the layers of the laminate material.
- the package described herein also may include a stress riser in the heat seal. As a result of the stress riser, the laminate packaging material may automatically vent in a predictable manner and location.
- FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a suitable laminate material 100 .
- the laminate material 100 may include a film layer 102 and an product-side layer 104 .
- the film layer 102 may comprise essentially any type of flexible web.
- suitable film layers include olefin polymer films and biopolymer films.
- the film layer 102 comprises an olefin polymer such polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, or combinations thereof.
- the film layer 102 comprises a biopolymer such as cellulose or polylactic acid.
- the film layer 102 may comprise an oriented film, and in particular embodiments may comprise a biaxially oriented film.
- the film layer 102 may comprise multiple layers, such as, for example, a multiple layer coextruded film.
- the film layer 102 has a thickness 106 in the range from about 0.25 millimeters to about 3 millimeters. More desirably, the film layer 102 has a thickness 106 in the range from about 0.5 millimeters to about 1 millimeters, and, even more desirably, about 0.75 millimeters.
- the product-side layer 104 may comprise essentially any type of flexible web suitable for forming a heat seal.
- suitable product-side layers include polyurethane film and polyethylene film.
- the product-side layer 104 has a thickness 108 in the range from about 0.5 millimeters to about 3 millimeters. More desirably, the product-side layer 104 has a thickness 108 in the range from about 1 millimeters to about 2.5 millimeters, and, even more desirably, about 0.75 millimeters. It has been discovered that the thickness 108 of the product-side layer 104 may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if the thickness 108 is increased, then the venting may occur at a later time, and if the thickness 108 is decreased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time.
- FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a sealed package 110 .
- the sealed package 110 may comprise a first side 112 and a second side 114 , each comprising the laminate material 100 .
- the sealed package 110 also may include first and second heat seals 116 and 118 at respective ends 120 and 122 of the sealed package 110 .
- the heat seals 116 and 118 may be formed by heat sealing the product-side layers 104 of the first and second sides 112 and 114 together.
- the first and second sides 112 and 114 and the heat seals 116 and 118 form the boundaries of an interior space (not shown) for holding a package material such as food.
- the first and second sides 112 and 114 are arranged such that the product-side layers 104 face inwardly toward the interior space of the sealed package 110 and the film layers 102 face outwardly.
- the heat seals 116 and 118 have a width 123 in the range from about 0.1 centimeters to about 2 centimeters, and preferably about 0.5 centimeters. It has been discovered that the width 123 of heat seal 116 may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if the width 123 is increased, then the venting may occur at a later time, and if the width 123 is decreased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time. In some embodiments, the width 123 of heat seal 116 is narrower than the width of heat seal 118 as well as any other heat seal on the sealed package 110 .
- At least one of the heat seals 116 and 118 may have an interior boundary 124 facing the interior space of the sealed package 110 .
- the interior boundary 124 of the top heat seal 116 may include a first portion 126 and a second portion 128 , referred to here as a stress riser, that extends beyond the first portion 126 toward the interior of the sealed package 110 (as shown in FIG. 3A ).
- the first portion 126 of the heat seal interior boundary 124 is substantially linear.
- the stress riser 128 may have essentially any shape. Non-limited examples of suitable shapes include a “V” shape, a “U” shape, or a square shape.
- the stress riser 128 may have a length 132 and a width 134 . It has been discovered that the length 132 of the stress riser 128 may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if the length 132 is increased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time, and if the length 132 is decreased, then the venting may occur at a later time. In a particular embodiment, the stress riser 128 has a length 132 in the range from about 0.1 centimeters to about 2 centimeters.
- the stress riser 128 has a length 132 in the range from about 0.25 millimeters to about 1 centimeters, and, even more desirably, about 0.5 centimeters. It also has been discovered that the width 134 of the stress riser 128 may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if the width 134 is increased, then the venting may occur at a later time, and if the width 134 is decreased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time. In a particular embodiment, the stress riser 128 has a width 134 in the range from about 0.1 centimeters to about 2 centimeters.
- the stress riser 128 has a width 134 in the range from about 0.25 millimeters to about 1 centimeters, and, even more desirably, about 0.5 centimeters.
- the stress riser 128 comprises a “V” shape. It has been discovered that the angle between the “V” may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if the angle is increased, then the venting may occur at a later time, and if the angle is decreased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time.
- the stress riser 128 may cause the package 110 to form a break in a predictable location.
- the force of the pressure on the laminate material 100 may be greatest in the area of the stress riser 128 .
- the laminate material 100 may break at the location of the s stress riser 128 .
- the package 110 may be constructed so that the venting always occurs near the top of the package, which may prevent the package 110 from leaking moisture into a microwave.
- FIG. 3B illustrates the progression of tearing of the product-side layer 104 and the delamination of the film layer 102 from the product-side layer 104 when a steam vent is formed.
- the product-side layer 104 initially tears at the stress focal point 170 .
- the tear quickly continues along the interior boundary 124 first along the edges of the stress riser 128 and then continuing along a portion of the interior boundary 124 of the heat seal 116 as shown by the arrows originating at the stress focal point 170 .
- steam intrudes between the product-side layer 104 and the film layer 102 causing the two layers to delaminate.
- the concentric arcs in FIG. 3B illustrate the progression of the delamination as the steam peels the layers apart across the top of heat seal 116 . Once the steam crosses the width of the heat seal 116 , the steam vents out of the package.
- FIG. 4 shows an end view of one embodiment of the top heat seal 116 .
- the heat seal 116 may be between the product-side layer 104 of a portion of the first side 112 of the laminate material 100 and the product-side layer 104 of a portion of the second side 112 of the laminate material 100 .
- heat seal 116 between the product-side layers 104 may be stronger than the bond between the product-side layer 104 and the film layer 102 .
- the package 110 may vent steam in a very predictable manner.
- the stress riser 128 may cause the laminate material 100 to form a break at the location of the stress riser 128 .
- the break may not extend through both the product-side layer 104 and the film layer 102 of the laminate material 100 , and the package 110 may not vent steam through a path between the product-side layers 104 . Rather, the break only may extend through the product-side layer 104 , and the steam may vent through a path that extends through the break in the product-side layer 104 and then between the product-side layer 104 and the film layer 102 .
- FIGS. 5 and 6 show an end view of one embodiment venting through the heat seal 116 .
- the stress riser 128 may cause a break (not shown) through the product-side layer 104 through which the steam may travel.
- the steam may then travel through a vent 140 between the film layer 102 and the product-side layer 104 .
- Venting in this manner may provide significant advantages over venting through either (1) a break that extends directly through both the product-side layer 104 and the film layer 102 of the laminate material 100 or (2) a path between the product-side layers 104 . Because the venting may occur through the relatively longer path between the layers of the laminate material 100 , the package may maintain steam pressure and avoid a complete loss of steam that could detrimentally interfere with the food preparation process.
- the heat and moisture in the steam may cause the film layer 102 and the product-side layer 104 to gradually delaminate during the food preparation.
- This delamination may create a larger vent 142 .
- the larger vent 142 may allow a greater quantity of steam to escape during the later stages of the food preparation.
- the bond between the product-side layer 104 and film layer 102 is heat and moisture sensitive.
- the heat and moisture of the steam acts to loosen the bond between the product-side layer 104 and film layer 102 to improve the delamination.
- the package 110 may further comprise additional heat seals.
- the package 110 may include a side seals and/or a back seal.
- the method comprises the steps of (a) providing a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer; and (b) heat sealing the product-side layer of a first portion of the laminate material and the product-side layer of a second portion of the laminate material to form a heat seal comprising a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material.
- the heat seal may be formed using essentially any method known in the art.
- the forming step comprises contacting the first portion of the laminate and the second portion of the laminate and applying heat.
- the forming step may form a stress riser of essentially any shape.
- suitable shapes include a “V” shape, a “U” shape, or a square shape.
- the forming step comprises pressing the first portion and second portion together between two heated jaws comprising stress rising faces.
- FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of heat seal jaws 150 and 152 .
- the heat seal jaw 150 may include grooves 154 , and the heat seal jaw 152 may include lands 156 .
- the grooves 154 may be adapted to receive the lands 156 so as to create a heat seal.
- the heat seal jaw 150 may further include a stress riser face 158
- the heat seal jaw 152 may further include a stress riser face 160 .
- the stress riser faces 158 and 160 may create a stress riser.
- the stress riser faces 158 and 160 may have essentially any shape. Non-limited examples of suitable shapes include a “V” shape, a “U” shape, or a square shape.
- the heat seal jaws 150 and 152 may also include a blade slot 172 for receiving a cutting blade.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a part of a system for producing a heat sealed package.
- a feeder feeds the package material 174 through a heat-sealing die between the heat seal jaw 150 and the heat seal jaw 152 (not shown here) along a direction of travel as indicated by the arrow. Once the package material 174 has traveled a predesignated distance, the heat seal jaws 150 and 152 compress around the package material 174 and form a heat seal. A cutting blade then passes through slot 172 to cut the package material 174 within heat-sealed region.
- the package material 174 may be filled with product before passing between the heat seal jaws 152 .
- the heat seal jaws 150 and 152 have primary heat seal faces 176 for forming the primary heat seal on the package.
- the heat seal jaws 150 and 152 also include stress-riser seal faces 178 which are adjacent to and extend outwardly away from the periphery 180 of the primary heat seal faces 176 .
- the reader will appreciate that such an arrangement will produce the heat seal 116 having the stress riser 128 of FIG. 3A .
- the method comprises (a) providing a sealed package comprising a first side and a second side, wherein the first side and the second side each comprise a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer, the product-side layers of the first and second sides at least partially heat sealed together to form a heat seal between the first and second sides such that the heat seal comprises a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material, and wherein the sealed package further comprises a food on the inside of the sealed package; and (b) microwaving the sealed package to heat the food and generate steam, wherein the pressure of the steam forms a break in the product-side layer at the location of the stress riser, wherein the pressure of the steam delaminates the product-side layer and the film layer at the location of the break.
Abstract
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/018,050 filed on Dec. 31, 2007.
- The present application relates to flexible food packages and more particularly relates to openings for flexible food packages that vent during food preparation.
- Generally described, packages for both storing and preparing food desirably seal the food during storage and a vent during preparation. For example, packages used to store and then cook vegetables in microwave ovens may need to vent to release steam. Unfortunately, these packages may vent in an unpredictable location and manner, which may interfere with the cooking process.
- What is desired, therefore, is a package that can automatically vent steam during cooking from a predictable location. The package may seal the food during storage, and may provide easy access to the food after cooking.
- The present application provides a sealed package. In one exemplary embodiment, the package includes a first side and a second side, wherein the first side and the second side each comprise a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer, the product-side layers of the first and second sides at least partially heat sealed together to form a heat seal between the first and second sides such that the heat seal comprises a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material.
- The present invention also provides a method for making a sealed package. In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes: (a) providing a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer; and (b) heat sealing the product-side layer of a first portion of the laminate material and the product-side layer of a second portion of the laminate material to form a heat seal comprising a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material.
- The present invention also provides a method for preparing food. In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes: (a) providing a sealed package comprising a first side and a second side, wherein the first side and the second side each comprise a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer, the product-side layers of the first and second sides at least partially heat sealed together to form a heat seal between the first and second sides such that the heat seal comprises a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material, and wherein the sealed package further comprises a food on the inside of the sealed package; and (b) microwaving the sealed package to heat the food and generate steam; wherein the pressure of the steam forms a break in the product-side layer at the location of the stress riser, and wherein the pressure of the steam delaminates the product-side layer and the film layer at the location of the break.
- The present invention also provides a heat sealing die for heat sealing a package. In an exemplary embodiment, the heat sealing die includes a first heat seal jaw having a first primary seal face with a first periphery and a first stress-riser seal face extending outwardly away from the first periphery; and a second heat seal jaw having a second primary seal face with a second periphery and a second stress-riser seal face extending outwardly away from the second periphery. The heat sealing die is adapted to compress the first heat seal jaw and the second heat seal jaw about the package to produce a primary heat seal where the first primary seal face and the second primary seal face contact the package and a stress riser adjacent to the primary heat seal where the first stress-riser seal face and the second stress-riser seal face contact the package.
- The present invention also provides a system for producing a heat-sealed package. In an exemplary embodiment, the system includes a heat sealing die with a first and a second heat seal jaw and a feeder adapted to feed the package between the first and second heat seal jaws. The first heat seal jaw includes a first primary seal face with a first periphery and a first stress-riser seal face extending outwardly away from the first periphery. The second heat seal jaw includes a second primary seal face with a second periphery and a second stress-riser seal face extending outwardly away from the second periphery. The heat sealing die is adapted to compress the first heat seal jaw and the second heat seal jaw about the package to produce a primary heat seal where the first primary seal face and the second primary seal face contact the package and a stress riser adjacent to the primary heat seal where the first stress-riser seal face and the second stress-riser seal face contact the package.
- These and other features of the present application will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the appended claims.
-
FIG. 1 shows an end view of a laminate material suitable for use in a sealed package in accordance with an embodiment of this invention. -
FIG. 2 shows a side elevation view of a sealed package made in accordance with an embodiment of this invention. -
FIG. 3A shows a partial side elevation view of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2 featuring a stress riser. -
FIG. 3B shows the progression of tearing of the product-side layer and the delamination of the product-side layer and film layer when a steam vent is formed. -
FIG. 4 shows an end view of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2 featuring a heat seal. -
FIG. 5 shows an end view of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2 featuring a heat seal vent. -
FIG. 6 also shows an end view of the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 2 featuring a heat seal vent. -
FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of heat seal dies in accordance with an embodiment of this invention. -
FIG. 8 shows a part of a system for producing a heat sealed package having a stress riser. - Reference now will be made in detail to various aspects of this invention, including the presently preferred embodiments. Each example is provided by way of explanation of embodiments of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used on another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover such modifications and variations within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
- Methods have been developed according to aspects of this invention for making a sealed package by providing a laminate material and forming a heat seal between the laminate material. Unlike conventional heat seals, which may vent in an unpredictable manner and location, the instant heat seals include a stress riser so that they may reliably vent from a predictable location. Furthermore, because the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the layers of the laminate, the package may vent steam between the layers of the laminate material.
- As used herein, the terms “comprise,” “comprising,” “include,” and “including” are intended to be open, non-limiting terms, unless the contrary is expressly indicated.
- The present application provides improved sealed packages and methods for making sealed packages. According to a particular embodiment, the present application provides sealed packages suitable for preparing food in a microwave oven.
- The packages and methods described herein may be useful for packaging essentially any product. The materials and methods especially may be useful for packaging products that are prepared by steaming. Advantageously, the packaging materials may comprise a heat seal between two portions of a laminate material, wherein the heat seal is stronger that the bond between the layers of the laminate material. The package described herein also may include a stress riser in the heat seal. As a result of the stress riser, the laminate packaging material may automatically vent in a predictable manner and location.
- Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals indicate like elements throughout separate views,
FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of asuitable laminate material 100. Thelaminate material 100 may include afilm layer 102 and an product-side layer 104. - The
film layer 102 may comprise essentially any type of flexible web. Non-limiting examples of suitable film layers include olefin polymer films and biopolymer films. In one embodiment, thefilm layer 102 comprises an olefin polymer such polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, or combinations thereof. In another embodiment, thefilm layer 102 comprises a biopolymer such as cellulose or polylactic acid. Thefilm layer 102 may comprise an oriented film, and in particular embodiments may comprise a biaxially oriented film. Furthermore, thefilm layer 102 may comprise multiple layers, such as, for example, a multiple layer coextruded film. In a particular embodiment, thefilm layer 102 has athickness 106 in the range from about 0.25 millimeters to about 3 millimeters. More desirably, thefilm layer 102 has athickness 106 in the range from about 0.5 millimeters to about 1 millimeters, and, even more desirably, about 0.75 millimeters. - The product-
side layer 104 may comprise essentially any type of flexible web suitable for forming a heat seal. Non-limiting examples of suitable product-side layers include polyurethane film and polyethylene film. In a particular embodiment, the product-side layer 104 has athickness 108 in the range from about 0.5 millimeters to about 3 millimeters. More desirably, the product-side layer 104 has athickness 108 in the range from about 1 millimeters to about 2.5 millimeters, and, even more desirably, about 0.75 millimeters. It has been discovered that thethickness 108 of the product-side layer 104 may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if thethickness 108 is increased, then the venting may occur at a later time, and if thethickness 108 is decreased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time. - Referring again to the drawings,
FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a sealedpackage 110. The sealedpackage 110 may comprise afirst side 112 and asecond side 114, each comprising thelaminate material 100. The sealedpackage 110 also may include first and second heat seals 116 and 118 at respective ends 120 and 122 of the sealedpackage 110. The heat seals 116 and 118 may be formed by heat sealing the product-side layers 104 of the first andsecond sides - The first and
second sides second sides side layers 104 face inwardly toward the interior space of the sealedpackage 110 and the film layers 102 face outwardly. - In a particular embodiment, the heat seals 116 and 118 have a
width 123 in the range from about 0.1 centimeters to about 2 centimeters, and preferably about 0.5 centimeters. It has been discovered that thewidth 123 ofheat seal 116 may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if thewidth 123 is increased, then the venting may occur at a later time, and if thewidth 123 is decreased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time. In some embodiments, thewidth 123 ofheat seal 116 is narrower than the width ofheat seal 118 as well as any other heat seal on the sealedpackage 110. - In one embodiment, at least one of the heat seals 116 and 118 may have an
interior boundary 124 facing the interior space of the sealedpackage 110. According to a certain embodiment, theinterior boundary 124 of thetop heat seal 116 may include afirst portion 126 and asecond portion 128, referred to here as a stress riser, that extends beyond thefirst portion 126 toward the interior of the sealed package 110 (as shown inFIG. 3A ). In a certain embodiment, thefirst portion 126 of the heat sealinterior boundary 124 is substantially linear. Thestress riser 128 may have essentially any shape. Non-limited examples of suitable shapes include a “V” shape, a “U” shape, or a square shape. - As illustrated in
FIG. 3A , thestress riser 128 may have alength 132 and awidth 134. It has been discovered that thelength 132 of thestress riser 128 may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if thelength 132 is increased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time, and if thelength 132 is decreased, then the venting may occur at a later time. In a particular embodiment, thestress riser 128 has alength 132 in the range from about 0.1 centimeters to about 2 centimeters. More desirably, thestress riser 128 has alength 132 in the range from about 0.25 millimeters to about 1 centimeters, and, even more desirably, about 0.5 centimeters. It also has been discovered that thewidth 134 of thestress riser 128 may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if thewidth 134 is increased, then the venting may occur at a later time, and if thewidth 134 is decreased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time. In a particular embodiment, thestress riser 128 has awidth 134 in the range from about 0.1 centimeters to about 2 centimeters. More desirably, thestress riser 128 has awidth 134 in the range from about 0.25 millimeters to about 1 centimeters, and, even more desirably, about 0.5 centimeters. In a preferred embodiment, thestress riser 128 comprises a “V” shape. It has been discovered that the angle between the “V” may be adjusted to control when the venting occurs. Specifically, if the angle is increased, then the venting may occur at a later time, and if the angle is decreased, then the venting may occur at an earlier time. - Importantly, the
stress riser 128 may cause thepackage 110 to form a break in a predictable location. As pressure in the package 200 builds, the force of the pressure on thelaminate material 100 may be greatest in the area of thestress riser 128. As a result, thelaminate material 100 may break at the location of thes stress riser 128. Because the vent may predictably form at thestress riser 128, thepackage 110 may be constructed so that the venting always occurs near the top of the package, which may prevent thepackage 110 from leaking moisture into a microwave. -
FIG. 3B illustrates the progression of tearing of the product-side layer 104 and the delamination of thefilm layer 102 from the product-side layer 104 when a steam vent is formed. When steam is produced in the package, the product-side layer 104 initially tears at the stressfocal point 170. The tear quickly continues along theinterior boundary 124 first along the edges of thestress riser 128 and then continuing along a portion of theinterior boundary 124 of theheat seal 116 as shown by the arrows originating at the stressfocal point 170. As the product-side layer 104 tears, steam intrudes between the product-side layer 104 and thefilm layer 102 causing the two layers to delaminate. The concentric arcs inFIG. 3B illustrate the progression of the delamination as the steam peels the layers apart across the top ofheat seal 116. Once the steam crosses the width of theheat seal 116, the steam vents out of the package. -
FIG. 4 shows an end view of one embodiment of thetop heat seal 116. Theheat seal 116 may be between the product-side layer 104 of a portion of thefirst side 112 of thelaminate material 100 and the product-side layer 104 of a portion of thesecond side 112 of thelaminate material 100. - Importantly,
heat seal 116 between the product-side layers 104 may be stronger than the bond between the product-side layer 104 and thefilm layer 102. As a result, thepackage 110 may vent steam in a very predictable manner. As described above, thestress riser 128 may cause thelaminate material 100 to form a break at the location of thestress riser 128. Because theheat seal 116 between the product-side layers 104 may be stronger than the bond between the product-side layer 104 and thefilm layer 102, the break may not extend through both the product-side layer 104 and thefilm layer 102 of thelaminate material 100, and thepackage 110 may not vent steam through a path between the product-side layers 104. Rather, the break only may extend through the product-side layer 104, and the steam may vent through a path that extends through the break in the product-side layer 104 and then between the product-side layer 104 and thefilm layer 102. -
FIGS. 5 and 6 show an end view of one embodiment venting through theheat seal 116. Thestress riser 128 may cause a break (not shown) through the product-side layer 104 through which the steam may travel. The steam may then travel through avent 140 between thefilm layer 102 and the product-side layer 104. Venting in this manner may provide significant advantages over venting through either (1) a break that extends directly through both the product-side layer 104 and thefilm layer 102 of thelaminate material 100 or (2) a path between the product-side layers 104. Because the venting may occur through the relatively longer path between the layers of thelaminate material 100, the package may maintain steam pressure and avoid a complete loss of steam that could detrimentally interfere with the food preparation process. Further, the heat and moisture in the steam may cause thefilm layer 102 and the product-side layer 104 to gradually delaminate during the food preparation. This delamination may create alarger vent 142. Thelarger vent 142 may allow a greater quantity of steam to escape during the later stages of the food preparation. In some embodiments, the bond between the product-side layer 104 andfilm layer 102 is heat and moisture sensitive. In these embodiments, the heat and moisture of the steam acts to loosen the bond between the product-side layer 104 andfilm layer 102 to improve the delamination. - The
package 110 may further comprise additional heat seals. For example, thepackage 110 may include a side seals and/or a back seal. - Also embodied in this invention are methods of making a package. In one embodiment, the method comprises the steps of (a) providing a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer; and (b) heat sealing the product-side layer of a first portion of the laminate material and the product-side layer of a second portion of the laminate material to form a heat seal comprising a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material.
- The heat seal may be formed using essentially any method known in the art. In one embodiment, the forming step comprises contacting the first portion of the laminate and the second portion of the laminate and applying heat. The forming step may form a stress riser of essentially any shape. Non-limited examples of suitable shapes include a “V” shape, a “U” shape, or a square shape.
- In a preferred embodiment, the forming step comprises pressing the first portion and second portion together between two heated jaws comprising stress rising faces.
FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of one embodiment ofheat seal jaws heat seal jaw 150 may includegrooves 154, and theheat seal jaw 152 may include lands 156. Thegrooves 154 may be adapted to receive thelands 156 so as to create a heat seal. Theheat seal jaw 150 may further include astress riser face 158, and theheat seal jaw 152 may further include astress riser face 160. The stress riser faces 158 and 160 may create a stress riser. The stress riser faces 158 and 160 may have essentially any shape. Non-limited examples of suitable shapes include a “V” shape, a “U” shape, or a square shape. Theheat seal jaws blade slot 172 for receiving a cutting blade. -
FIG. 8 illustrates a part of a system for producing a heat sealed package. A feeder feeds thepackage material 174 through a heat-sealing die between theheat seal jaw 150 and the heat seal jaw 152 (not shown here) along a direction of travel as indicated by the arrow. Once thepackage material 174 has traveled a predesignated distance, theheat seal jaws package material 174 and form a heat seal. A cutting blade then passes throughslot 172 to cut thepackage material 174 within heat-sealed region. In an exemplary embodiment, thepackage material 174 may be filled with product before passing between theheat seal jaws 152. - As can be seen most clearly in
FIG. 8 , theheat seal jaws heat seal jaws periphery 180 of the primary heat seal faces 176. The reader will appreciate that such an arrangement will produce theheat seal 116 having thestress riser 128 ofFIG. 3A . - Preparing Food with the Package
- Also embodied in this invention are methods of preparing food. In one embodiment, the method comprises (a) providing a sealed package comprising a first side and a second side, wherein the first side and the second side each comprise a laminate material including an product-side layer and a film layer, the product-side layers of the first and second sides at least partially heat sealed together to form a heat seal between the first and second sides such that the heat seal comprises a stress riser, wherein the heat seal is stronger than the bond between the product-side layer and the film layer of the laminate material, and wherein the sealed package further comprises a food on the inside of the sealed package; and (b) microwaving the sealed package to heat the food and generate steam, wherein the pressure of the steam forms a break in the product-side layer at the location of the stress riser, wherein the pressure of the steam delaminates the product-side layer and the film layer at the location of the break.
- It should be understood that the foregoing relates only to the preferred embodiments of the present application and that numerous changes and modifications may be made herein without departing from the general spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following claims and the equivalents thereof.
Claims (21)
Priority Applications (1)
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US12/346,204 US20100098814A1 (en) | 2007-12-31 | 2008-12-30 | Flexible Package With Stress Riser Opening |
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US12/346,204 US20100098814A1 (en) | 2007-12-31 | 2008-12-30 | Flexible Package With Stress Riser Opening |
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US20100098814A1 true US20100098814A1 (en) | 2010-04-22 |
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US12/346,204 Abandoned US20100098814A1 (en) | 2007-12-31 | 2008-12-30 | Flexible Package With Stress Riser Opening |
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US9193515B2 (en) | 2012-09-06 | 2015-11-24 | Frito-Lay North America, Inc. | Package for microwaving dry foods |
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9193515B2 (en) | 2012-09-06 | 2015-11-24 | Frito-Lay North America, Inc. | Package for microwaving dry foods |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2009086546A1 (en) | 2009-07-09 |
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