巴西专利BR112013030954B1 PACKAGE CONTAINING AN OPENING FEATURE

专利PDF首页>>巴西专利

专利附录

专利说明

权利要求

类似技术

同族专利

引用文献

法律状态

优先权

专利摘要:
summary of the patent application for an opening feature for packaging with absorbent articles a package includes a set of disposable absorbent articles and a package that has a front panel, a rear panel, an upper panel, a lower panel and a pair of side panels. the panels together define an interior compartment. at least one of the side panels has a longitudinal central axis, a pair of lateral edges, a tongue adjacent to the upper panel, and a line of fragility that has a first portion disposed on one side of the central longitudinal axis, a second portion disposed on the opposite side of the central longitudinal axis and a third portion that spreads between and connecting the first and second part. the third part of the fragility line is spaced from the ends of the first and second part. the set of disposable absorbent articles is compressed inside the compartment and arranged in at least one line that extends between the side panels.
公开号:BR112013030954B1
申请号:R112013030954-7
申请日:2012-05-16
公开日:2020-12-15
发明作者:Stacy Evenson；David J. Schurr；Stephen Khen
申请人:Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The field of the invention relates generally to article packaging and, more particularly, to a package opening feature that has a set of disposable absorbent articles compressed within it. HISTORY OF THE INVENTION
[002] It is known that disposable absorbent articles can be conveniently and efficiently packaged in flexible packaging, such as polyethylene. Often disposable absorbent articles are compressed within the flexible package to produce a smaller volume package, compared to an arrangement in which disposable absorbent articles are not compressed within the flexible package. Disposable absorbent articles in a compressed configuration or condition within the packaging reduce material costs (that is, the packaging may be less) and distribution costs (for example, shipping, handling and storage costs).
[003] In addition, compressed disposable absorbent articles keep the packaging under tension, which makes the packaging surfaces generally flattened. In general, these planed surfaces make packaging more aesthetically pleasing. In addition, it is easier for consumers, users and / or caregivers to view the illustrations and read the writing printed on the flat surfaces of the package.
[004] Current compressed packaging of disposable absorbent articles has at least some disadvantages. On the one hand, the opening feature may not be easily noticeable and therefore the consumer may not be able to easily find the opening. Second, since the compressed disposable absorbent articles exert a force against the package, the opening feature must be strong enough to resist at least that force. Otherwise, the packaging would be prone to tearing during transportation and handling. As a result, the openings are often difficult to use for the package user. In addition, it may be difficult for the user to remove the first disposable absorbent articles from the packaging as a result of the pressure applied to the absorbent articles by the packaging configuration. This is especially true if the user is a geriatric or suffers from a medical condition (such as arthritis).
[005] Therefore, there is a need for a packaging with an opening feature that is relatively easy to use, while being able to withstand the forces applied to it by a set of compressed disposable absorbent articles. There is also a need for an opening feature for a package that allows the user, relatively easily, to remove the first absorbent articles from the package. RESUME
[006] In one configuration, a package generally comprises a set of disposable absorbent articles and a package. The package has a front panel, a rear panel, an upper panel, a lower panel and side panels. The panels together define an interior compartment of the package. At least one of the side panels has a central longitudinal axis, a pair of lateral edges, a tongue adjacent to the upper panel, and a line of fragility that has a first portion disposed on one side of the central longitudinal axis, a second portion disposed on the opposite side of the central longitudinal axis and a third portion that spreads between and connecting the first and second portion. The third portion of the fragility line is spaced from the ends of the first and second portions. Each of the fragility line portions extends through the tongue. The set of disposable absorbent articles is compressed inside the inner compartment of the package and arranged in at least one row that extends between the side panels.
[007] In another configuration, a package generally comprises a set of disposable absorbent articles and a package. The package has a front panel, a rear panel, an upper panel, a lower panel and side panels. The panels together define an interior compartment of the package. At least one of the panels has an opening feature configured to move the package from a closed, sealed configuration to an open configuration when at least a threshold force is applied to the opening feature. The set of disposable absorbent articles is compressed inside the inner compartment of the package and arranged in at least one row that extends between the side panels. The threshold force is between about 4.45 and 88.96 Newtons (1 and 20 pounds).
[008] In yet another configuration, a package generally comprises a set of disposable absorbent articles and a package. The package has a front panel, a rear panel, an upper panel, a lower panel and side panels. The panels together define an interior compartment of the package. The set of disposable absorbent articles is compressed inside the interior compartment. At least one of the side panels has an opening feature including a tongue and a line of fragility that extends through and is operably linked to the tongue. The tongue has an upper edge, an inner panel and an outer panel. The inner and outer panels define a pocket. The fragility line comprises a first portion, a second portion and a third portion that extends between and connects the first and second portions. The third portion of the fragility line is located, at least in part, on the inner panel and away from the upper edge of the tongue. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[009] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a package comprising a flexible package and a set of disposable absorbent articles compressed inside the package, the package has an embodiment with an opening feature.
[0010] Figure 2 is a front view of the package of Figure 1 with parts cut to show the set of disposable absorbent articles contained inside the package.
[0011] Figure 3 is a side view of the package, which illustrates a first side panel of the package, with the opening feature arranged on it.
[0012] Figure 4 is a side view of the package, which illustrates a second side panel of the package.
[0013] Figure 5 is a view of the bottom of the package, which illustrates a panel of the bottom of the package. Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the part of the package shown in Figure 1.
[0014] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the package in Figure 1, showing the opening feature to be used to move the package from a closed configuration to an open configuration.
[0015] Figure 8 is a perspective similar to Figure 7, but illustrating the package in the open configuration.
[0016] Figure 9 is a perspective of the package in which the first side panel of the package has another embodiment with an opening feature arranged on it.
[0017] Figure 10 is a perspective of the package in which the first side panel of the package has another embodiment with an opening feature arranged on it.
[0018] Figure 11 is a perspective of the package in which the first side panel of the package has another embodiment with an opening feature arranged on it.
[0019] Figure 12 is a perspective of the package in which the first side panel of the package has yet another embodiment with an opening feature arranged on it.
[0020] Figure 13 is a perspective of the package in which the first side panel of the package has yet another embodiment with an opening feature arranged on it.
[0021] The corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] Referring now to the drawings, Figures 1 to 8 illustrate an embodiment of a compressed package, generally indicated at 10, comprising flexible packaging, indicated at 11, and a variety of disposable absorbent articles, indicated at 26, received inside the package in a compressed configuration. By "compressed package" is intended to represent a package containing a variety of articles in which the variety of articles has a pre-insertion dimension, measured along at least one axis, which is greater in length than when the variety of articles items is contained in the packaging. For example, if fourteen articles are assembled in a row with a pre-insertion dimension, measured along an axis, for example, the 10-inch (254 mm) x-axis and the article row is then compressed by a force of at least 4.45 Newtons (1 pound) to a dimension less than 10 inches (254 mm), when they are contained in the package then, the articles are considered to be contained in a compressed package.
[0023] As seen in Figure 1, the illustrated package 11 has a front panel 12, a rear panel 14, a first side panel 16, a second side panel 18, an upper panel 20 and a lower panel 22. The packaging 11 defines an internal compartment 24, sized and shaped to receive the variety of articles 26 (Figure 2). In the illustrated embodiment, the package 10 has a generally cuboid shape, but it is understood that the package can have any suitable shape (for example, a cube).
[0024] Referring to Figure 2, the disposable absorbent articles 26 illustrated are garments for incontinent adults, but it is understood that other disposable absorbent articles, suitable incontinent clothing that may be contained within the package 11. Examples of other articles Suitable disposable pads 26 include, but are not limited to, baby diapers, transition diapers, swim pads, sanitary napkins and women's pads. As used herein, a disposable absorbent article is a product that is intended for a single use, before being discarded (ie, it is not intended to be washed and reused) and is made to absorb human exudates, such as urine, menstrual flow and / or fecal matter.
[0025] In an appropriate configuration, the disposable absorbent articles 26 are arranged in one or more lines 28 and 30 inside the internal compartment 24 of packaging 10, with each row being formed by a set of aligned articles. In a suitable arrangement, there are from about 5 to 100 disposable absorbent articles in each of rows 28 and 30. More suitably, there are between 10 to 50 disposable absorbent articles in a given row. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, each of rows 28 and 30 contains about 20 disposable absorbent articles. It is understood, however, that the number of articles 26 in each row 28 and 30 may be different.
[0026] As can be seen in Figure 2, the disposable absorbent articles 26 of the illustrated package 10 are arranged in two horizontal rows, where a row 28 (ie, a top row) is located above the other row 30 (ie a bottom row). It is contemplated, however, that rows 28 and 30 could be arranged side by side. It is further contemplated that the inner compartment 24 of package 11 may contain more than two rows of articles. In such a configuration, rows 28 and 30 of articles 26 can be stacked, arranged side by side, or both. For example, package 10 may contain two or more rows of articles 26 arranged side by side, adjacent to the bottom panel 22 of package 11, and two or more rows arranged side by side above the bottom rows and adjacent the panel higher than 20.
[0027] The illustrated disposable absorbent articles 26 are capable of being compacted. Appropriately, each of the articles 26 can be compressed by a percentage between about 10% and 50%. As a result, the volume of the inner compartment 24 of the package 11 can be reduced by between 10% and 50% when compared to an arrangement in which disposable absorbent articles 26 are placed in the package 11 in an uncompressed configuration.
[0028] In a suitable embodiment, articles 26 are compressed and then are inserted into package 11. After articles 26 are placed in package 11, the package is sealed. The compressed articles 26 attempt to expand from their compressed configuration to an uncompressed configuration within the sealed package 11. The cumulative expansion efforts of the articles 26 put the package 11 under tension, which causes at least some of the and, more appropriately , all panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 are generally tense.
[0029] Suitably, the compressed disposable absorbent articles 26 apply between 4.45 Newtons (1 pound) and about 88.96 Newtons (20 pounds) of force against the package 11 (i.e., a force in the package), and more between 31.14 Newtons (7 pounds) and about 53.38 Newtons (12 pounds). In a suitable embodiment, the absorbent articles 26 tablets apply about 40.03 Newtons (9 pounds) of force against the package 11. Since the illustrated articles 26 are arranged in horizontal rows 28 and 30, most of the force of the compressed articles trying to expand is applied to the first and second side panels 16 and 18. It is contemplated, however, that the articles 26 can be arranged in other suitable configurations so that most of the force is applied to other panels (for example , the top and bottom panels 20 and 22) of the package 11. It is understood that the force applied to the first and second side panels 16 and 18 by the compressed articles 26 trying to expand, may decrease over time. That is, the force inside the packaging caused by the compressed articles 26 can attenuate over time. A potential cause of this attenuation is the stretching of the flexible packaging 11.
[0030] Referring now to Figures 3 and 4, the illustrated package 11 includes a pair of seams 32 and 34. One of the seams 32 is arranged on the first side panel 16 and the other seam 34 is arranged on the second side panel 18 Each of the seams 32 and 34 illustrated are generally aligned with (ie, coaxial) the longitudinal central axis of the respective side panel 16 and 18. It is contemplated that the seams 32 and 34 can be displaced in relation to the respective central longitudinal axis of the side panel. It is also contemplated that the seams 32 and 34 can be arranged on other panels of the package 11, or can be omitted.
[0031] As can be seen in Figure 5, both seams 32 and 34 extend from the respective side panel 16 and 18 and through a portion of the lower panel 22. The distance that each of the seams 32 and 34 extend whether through a part of the bottom panel 22 it can vary. The seams 32 and 34 can be formed by heat and a pressure connection, through a thermal connection, by an ultrasonic connection, by means of adhesive or by another means known to those skilled in the art.
[0032] With reference also to Figure 5, a lower seal 36 is formed on the lower panel 22 of the package 11 after the variety of articles 26 is placed inside the internal compartment 24. As mentioned above, the disposable absorbent articles 26 are compressed before be placed inside the internal compartment 24 of the package 11. Once the compressed articles 26 are placed inside the package 11, the lower panel 22 is sealed in the bottom seal 36 to close the set of articles inside the package.
[0033] As illustrated in Figures 1 and 6, the package 11 has a tongue, indicated at 40, arranged on the first side panel 16 adjacent to the top panel 20. Suitably, the package 11 includes a pair of tongues - the tongue 40 arranged on the first side panel 16 and another tongue, indicated at 42, arranged on the second side panel 18 (Figure 4). In the illustrated embodiment, tongues 40 and 42 are integrally formed (i.e., formed of a single piece) with the other portions of package 11 (that is, all six panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22 ). In fact, the entire illustrated package 11 is formed from a single piece of material. It is contemplated, however, that the tongues 40, 42 and / or any of the panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22 can be formed from separate pieces of material and connected to other parts of the package 11.
[0034] In a suitable embodiment, the tongues 40 and 42 are located on the respective side panels 16 and 18, in a location adjacent to the upper panel 20 of the package 10. It is understood, however, that, in other embodiments, the tongues 40 and 42 can be located adjacent to the bottom panel 22, or be placed between and spaced from the top and bottom panels 20 and 22. It is also understood that the tabs 40 and 42 can be located on the top or bottom panels 20 and 22 instead of side panels 16 and 18.
[0035] Again with reference to figures 3 and 4, each of the illustrated tongues 40 and 42 has a generally triangular configuration. Therefore, each of the tongues 40 and 42 have three ends. More specifically, each of the tongues 40 and 42 has an upper end 44 and 44 ', which is generally aligned with the upper panel 20 (i.e., they are generally on the same plane as the upper panel), and two ends 46 and 46 'which extend diagonally downwards from the upper end and converge to a point 48 and 48'. In the illustrated embodiment, stitches 48 and 48 'are located along respective seams 32 and 34. It is understood that the tongues 40 and 42 can be formed in any suitable ways.
[0036] At least, the tongue 40 on the first side panel 16 is arranged to form a pocket 50 defined by an inner panel 52 and an outer panel 54 (Figure 6). In the illustrated embodiment, the tongue 42 on the second side panel 18 is also arranged to form a pocket, but it is contemplated that the tongue on the second side panel may be free of the tongue.
[0037] With reference also to Figure 6, pocket 50 on the tongue 40 on the first side panel 16 provides an enlarged area in which the user of the package can position one or more of his fingers (for example, two fingers), so to easily grab and open the package 10. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of finger openings 56 is formed through the outer panel 54 of at least one of the pockets 50. Each of the finger openings 56 is shaped and sized to receive at least one human finger. In this way, the outer panel 54 of the tongue 40 forms an element to hold and allow the user of the package 10 to hold the tongue with his hand. It is contemplated that the finger openings 56 can be omitted or have different configurations (for example, square, rectangular, oval, transverse slits, half moon). It is also contemplated that package 11 may include indications associated with pocket 50 and / or finger openings 56 to draw the user's attention.
[0038] An opening feature, usually indicated at 60, of the package 11 includes the tongue 40 and a line of fragility, indicated at 62, which extends through and is operatively linked to the tongue. The opening feature 60 facilitates the user to open the package 11 and have access to a set of disposable absorbent articles 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening feature 60 is formed only on the first side panel 16. In other words, the second side panel 18 of the illustrated package 11 is free of an opening feature. It is understood, however, that both side panels 16 and 18 can be formed with the opening means 60. When the opening resources 60 are formed on both side panels 16 and 18, the package 11 can be easily opened from from both sides of the package 10.
[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the line of weakness 62 includes a first portion 64, a second portion 66 and a third portion 68, which connects the first and second portion. As can be seen in Figure 3, the first and second portions 64 and 66 extend longitudinally along the first side panel 16 from the upper end 44 of the tongue 40 to a location away from the upper end. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second portions 64 and 66 extend about 75% of the length of the first side panel 16. It is contemplated that the first and second portions 64 and 66 can extend over the entire suitable length of the first side panel 16. For example, the first and second portions 64 and 66 can suitably extend between about 30% to 90%, and more appropriately, between about 50% to 80% of the length of the first panel side 16.
[0040] As shown in Figure 3, the first and second portions 64 and 66 of the fragility line 62 are spaced on opposite sides of the seam 32, which generally extends along the central longitudinal axis of the first side panel 16. In the form illustrated embodiment, for example, each of the first and second portions 64 and 66 are located approximately midway between the seam 32 and the respective side end of the first side panel 16. Suitably, each of the first and second portions 64 and 66 are spaced out from the seam a distance between about 2% and 100% of the distance from the seam to the respective side end of the first side panel 16. In another suitable embodiment, the first and second portions 64 and 66 are spaced out from the seam by a distance of about 3 millimeters or more. In an embodiment having the first and second portions 64 and 66 spaced out from the seam at a distance of about 3 millimeters, the distance between the first and the second portion would be about 6 millimeters.
[0041] As can be seen in Figure 6, the first and second portions 64 and 66 of the fragility line 62 extend generally parallel to each other and parallel to the seam 32. It is understood, however, that the first and second second portions 64 and 66 can be non-parallel to each other and / or to the seam 32. For example, Figure 9 illustrates an embodiment of package 10, wherein package 11 has a first and second portions 164 and 166 of a fragility line 162 that are not parallel to each other and with the seam 32. In this embodiment, the first and second portions 164 and 166 are non-linear (ie, not straight), and are generally mirror images one the other. For example, Figure 10 illustrates an embodiment of package 10, in which package 11 has first and second portions 264 and 266 of a line of fragility 262 that are not parallel to each other and with the seam 32. In this form of embodiment, the first and second portions 264 and 266 are linear, but converge towards or intersect at a common point. It is also understood that the first and second portions can be different from each other in shape and length, if desired.
[0042] With reference again to Figure 6, the third portion 68 of the fragility line 62 is located inside the pocket 50 formed by the inner and outer panels 52 and 54 of the tongue 40, and extends between and operatively links the first and second portion 64 and 66, which extend through the outer panel of the tongue. As can be seen in Figure 6, the third portion part 68, located on the inner panel 52 of the tongue 40 is spaced down from the upper end 44 of the tongue and thus spaced down from the upper panel 20. In a form of A suitable embodiment, the third portion 68 is arranged below the finger opening 56. It is contemplated, however, that the relative position of the third portion 68 in relation to the finger openings 56 may be different.
[0043] The line of weakness 62 and thus each of the three portions 58, 60 and 62 can be a perforated line (as illustrated in the accompanying figures), a line formed by a variety of openings, such as grooves, separated through a variety of footprint areas, a thin line of material, a line of fragility formed by joining two sections of material together, or in any other suitable configuration or combination of configurations. It is contemplated that the weakness line 62 or parts of it may include markings to draw the user's attention.
[0044] The opening feature 60 of the illustrated embodiment is configured to move the package 10 from a closed configuration, sealed with an open configuration when a sufficient amount of force (i.e., a threshold force) is applied. That is, the opening feature 60 can be used to move the package 10 from the closed configuration to the open configuration when the threshold force is reached or exceeded. Suitably, the threshold force to activate aperture feature 60 is between about 4.45 to 88.96 Newtons (1 to 20 pounds) and, more appropriately, between about 8.90 to 44.48 Newtons (2 to 10 pounds), and even more appropriately, between about 17.79 and 31.14 Newtons (4 and 7 pounds). For example, in a suitable embodiment of the package 10, the opening feature 60 has a threshold force of about 26.69 Newtons (6 pounds).
[0045] Opening feature 60 is configured to inhibit activation or movement during normal handling of package 10, having a relatively low threshold so that opening feature is easy for the user to use. In a particularly suitable embodiment, the threshold force for moving the opening resource 60 is less than the force applied to the package 11 by the variety of compressed disposable absorbent articles 26. As mentioned above, the compressed absorbent articles 26 apply between 31.14 and 53.38 Newtons (7 and 12 pounds) of force against package 11, and more appropriately 40.03 Newtons (9 pounds) of against package. Thus, in the embodiment of the package 10 having about 40.03 Newtons (9 pounds) of force applied by the absorbent articles compressed 26 against the package 11, the threshold for activating the opening function 60 can be less than 40.03 Newtons (9 pounds) (e.g. 35.59 Newtons (8 pounds)). It is contemplated that in other embodiments, the threshold for activating the opening feature 60 can generally be equal to or greater than the force applied to the package 11 by a variety of compressed disposable absorbent articles 26.
[0046] In a suitable embodiment, the package 11 can be formed from a polymeric material, such as polyethylene, polypropylene or a combination thereof. A suitable material for packaging 11 is a polymeric film. Suitably, the polymeric film has a thickness of less than about 5 thousandths of an inch, more appropriately, less than about 3 thousandths, and even more appropriately, less than about 1.5 thousandths. The film can be a monolayer, coextruded multilayer or a laminar structure. Other natural and synthetic materials, known to those skilled in the art, can also be used to make packaging 10. Such other materials include, but are not limited to, woven and non-woven materials.
[0047] In a suitable method of opening the package 10, the user places one of his hands firmly on the top panel 20 of the package 11 to keep the package in place. The user then grips the outer panel 54 of the tongue 40 with the other hand with the hands and places one of their fingers in each of the finger openings 56. The user then pulls down or down and out the outer panel 54. This action causes the first and second portions 64 and 66 of the fragility line 62 to begin to tear or break the outer panel 54 of the tongue 40.
[0048] The user continues to pull downward or downward and outward the outer panel 54 causing the first, second and third portions 64, 66 and 68 of the fragility line 62 to tear the first side panel 16, thus moving the its packaging for an open configuration. In Figure 7, for example, the third portion 68 of the brittleness line was completely torn, while the first and second portion 64, 66 had been partially torn along their respective lengths. Figure 8 illustrates the first and second portions 64 and 66 being torn along their entire length.
[0049] As can be seen in Figures 7 and 8, the portion of the inner panel 52 of the tongue 40 disposed above the third portion 68 of the fragility line moves upwards, to a position, in general, flat with the upper panel 20 the packaging. The portions of the first side panel 16 disposed adjacent the tongue 40 move outwardly to a position which is generally flat with respect to the respective front and rear panel 12 and 14. As a result, an opening 70 which is large enough to release some of the force exerted by the compressed articles 26 is formed. In a suitable embodiment, between about 25% and 75% of the force exerted by the compressed articles is released and, more suitably, about 50% of the force exerted by the compressed articles is released.
[0050] With the package 10 in its open configuration (Figure 8), the user can easily remove the outermost absorbent article 26 from the package 11. In a suitable embodiment, less than 31.14 Newtons (7 pounds) of force (for example , 22.24 Newtons (5 pounds) of force) it is necessary to remove the first absorbent article from the range of disposable absorbent articles 26 from package 11. It is understood, however, that the need for force to remove the first absorbent article may be different , with different levels of compression.
[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the package 11 also includes a line of fragility 72 that extends longitudinally through the total length of the top panel 20. This line of fragility 72 can be selectively torn or partially torn by the user to provide, further , a larger opening in the package 11. Such a configuration facilitates access to the articles 26 located far from the opening 70 of the first side panel 16. It is understood that the fragility line 72 may extend less than the entire length of the upper panel 20, may be located off-center and / or be non-linear. It is further contemplated that the line of weakness 72 on the top panel 20 can be omitted.
[0052] Figure 11 illustrates the package 10 of Figures 1 to 8 with stops 74 disposed adjacent to the bottom of the first and second portions 64 and 66 of the fragility line 62. Stops 74 inhibit the package 11 from tearing beyond the extension of the first and second portion 64 and 66 during opening of the package 10.
[0053] Figure 12 illustrates the package 10 of Figures 1 to 8, in which the fragility line 62 has a fourth portion 76 that extends between the bottom of the first and second portions 64 and 66. The fourth portion 76, which is torn when the opening feature 60 of the package 11 is used to open the package 10, facilitates the removal of the portion of the package that defines the opening 70. In other words, the portion of the package 11 from within the first, second, third and fourth portions 64, 66, 68 and 74 of fragility line 62 is removed from the remainder of the package during opening of the package 10 using the opening feature 60.
[0054] Figure 13 illustrates the package 10 of Figures 1 to 8, in which each of the first and second portions 64 and 66 and includes a segment 78, which is more easily torn than the rest of the first and second portions 64 and 66. In the illustrated embodiment, segments 78 extend downwardly, from the upper end 44 of the tongue 40 and through each of the respective converging ends 46 of the tongue. It is contemplated, however, that segments 78 may be of any suitable size. The illustrated segments 78 include a series of spaced holes, but it is understood that the segments can be formed in any suitable manner. Alternatively, segment 78 may be a perforation that is larger than the perforations below and provides a cutting edge at the top of the tongue to better allow the tear to begin. STRENGTH TEST INSIDE THE PACKAGE
[0055] A strength test inside the package was performed to measure the force acting on the package by the compressed absorbent articles. The test was performed first on a package containing 18 compressed incontinence articles and then again on another package containing 20 compressed incontinence articles. The products were arranged in a single row of 18 and 20 respectively between the side panels of the package. The size of the package and the specific type of incontinence parts were the same in both tests. The 18-item incontinence pack had a strength within the pack of about 40.03 Newtons (9 pounds) and having 20 incontinence items it had a strength within the pack of about 53.38 Newtons (12 pounds).
[0056] The strength within the package of these two packages was determined using the following steps.
[0057] A package measuring device has a structure with sides to hold a movable crossbar to measure the height of the package or the height of the product stack. The bar has a width of 5.40 cm (2 1/8 inches) and a length of 52.71 cm (20 3/4 inches).
[0058] 1. The package is centered below the bar of the package measuring device and the width of the package (i.e., the distance between the first and the second side panel of the package) was measured to provide a compressed height of the incontinence underwear pile.
[0059] 2. The packaging was removed and the incontinence articles were kept in their stacked arrangement thus releasing the compression and allowing the incontinence article pile to be decompressed.
[0060] 3. The uncompressed pile of products is centered below the crossbar of the package measuring device and the height of the uncompressed pile of incontinence articles has been measured.
[0061] 4. Weights were applied to the top of the bar above the stack of decompressed incontinence articles up to the height of the measured stack as when it was in the package. The weight required to reach the packed height provides the strength within the package. PACK OPENING STRENGTH TEST (OR THRESHOLD FORCE)
[0062] The opening force of the package (or threshold force) was measured to determine the pounds of peak force required to open the package using the opening feature. The tests were carried out in a conventional package (a package of Depend® incontinence underwear available from Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc., with offices in Neenah, WI, USA) and in several packages, with the packaging using the opening described above with respect to Figures 1 to 8. The pounds of force required to open the conventional package was about 62.29 Newtons (14 pounds). The pounds of force needed to open the packages illustrated in Figures 1 through 8 was about 33.36 and 40.03 Newtons (7.5 and 9 pounds). The conventional package had perforations on the top panel of the package, which extended into the inner panel on the tabs on the side panels of the package. In addition, the conventional package had perforations throughout the top panel that extended across the front and rear panels partially below the panels.
[0063] A suitable method for determining the opening force of the package is described using the following steps. It is understood, however, that an automated system such as an Instron test apparatus can be used.
[0064] A chatillon force gauge model DFIS100 made available by Ametek, with offices in Largo, Florida, was equipped with a fixation device. The length of the clamping jaws was within 75 to 100 percent of the brittleness line for the brittleness spacing line on the package to be measured. The width of the clamping jaws was 18 mm x 18 mm, 30 mm x 18 mm and 45 mm x 18 mm. The clamping jaws have been cushioned with a rubber sealing material in order to firmly secure the packaging material without damage. Alternatively, when the finger holes were tested, two hook-shaped accessories with a spacing of 17 mm were used to simulate fingers used inside the finger openings.
[0065] 1. The package was placed upside down with the upper panel on a flat surface and held in place.
[0066] 2. The fixing jaws of the chatillon force gauge were attached to the outer panel of the tongue of the opening feature of the package between the spacing of the fragility line.
[0067] 3. The chatillon force gauge was pulled upwards to initiate and propagate the tear of the opening feature's fragility line.
[0068] 4. The peak or maximum force required to tear the defragility line of the package opening feature was recorded as the package opening force or threshold force. PRODUCT EXTRACTION TEST
[0069] An extraction test of the products was carried out to determine the amount of force required to remove the first absorbent article from the package (for example, the absorbent article arranged closest to the opening feature on the side panel in comparison to a distant absorbent article the center of the package using an opening feature on the top panel of the package). The test was performed on packages containing 20 compressed incontinence articles. The extraction force for the first absorbent article closest to the opening feature on the side panel was 29.36 Newtons (6.6 pounds), while the removal of an absorbent article from the center of the bag using a feature opening on the top panel required 52.49 Newtons (11.8 pounds) of force.
[0070] The product extraction test was performed using the following steps. While a suitable method for manually determining the extraction force of the packaging is illustrated by the following steps, it is understood that an automated system can be used, for example, an Instron tester.
[0071] A chatillon force gauge model DFIS100 made available by Ametek, with offices in Largo, Florida, was equipped with a fixation device. The clamp dimension is an 18 mm circle. The fixture is a seam test jaw, item No. G201A22, available from SDL Atlas USA, with offices in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
[0072] 1. The package was placed on a flat surface, with the top panel of the package facing up.
[0073] 2.The package was opened using the opening feature placed on the first side panel for the lateral traction test. The package was opened using the fragility line on the top panel of the package for the central traction test. Different packages were used for each test.
[0074] 2. The fixation device equipped with the chatillon force gauge was attached to the first absorbent article (that is, the absorbent article placed closest to the opening), for the lateral pull test. The clamp was attached to an absorbent article in the center of the package for the central tensile test.
[0075] 3.While the package was being held firmly down, the absorbent article was removed from the package using the chatillon force gauge, pulling up on the meter.
[0076] 4. The peak force (or maximum) recorded by the chatillon force meter was recorded.
[0077] When introducing the elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiment (s), the articles "one", "one", "o" and "say" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising", "including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be elements other than those listed. In addition, “upper”, “lower”, “above”, “below” and variations of these terms are used for convenience, and no particular component orientation is required.
[0078] As several changes could be made to the schemes discussed above without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all the matter contained in the description above and shown in the attached drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

权利要求:
Claims (20)
[0001]
1.Packaging (10) containing an opening feature comprising: a plurality of disposable absorbent articles (26); and a package (11) having a front panel (12), a rear panel (14), an upper panel (20), a lower panel (22), and a pair of side panels (16, 18), the panels cooperatively defining an interior compartment (24) of the package (11), at least one of the side panels (16, 18) having a longitudinal central axis, a pair of lateral ends (46, 46 '), a tongue (40, 42) arranged adjacent to the top panel (20) and a line of weakness (62) having a first portion (64) disposed on one side of the central longitudinal axis, a second portion (66) disposed on the opposite side of the central longitudinal axis, and a third transversely extended portion (68) spanning between and connecting the first and second portions (64, 66), characterized by the fact that the third portion (68) of the fragility line (62) is spaced from and longitudinally between the ends of the first and the second portion (64, 66), each portion of the fragility line (62) is tends through the tongue (40, 42), the tongue (40, 42) is arranged to form a pocket (50), the third portion (68) of the fragility line (62) is arranged inside the pocket (50), the The plurality of disposable absorbent articles (26) is compressed within the inner compartment (24) of the package (11) and arranged in at least one line extending between the side panels (16, 18).
[0002]
2.Packaging (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second portions (64, 66) of the fragility line (62) are generally parallel to each other and to the longitudinal central axis of at least a panel.
[0003]
3.Packaging (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second portions (64, 66) of the fragility line (62) are not parallel with each other and with the central longitudinal axis of at least a panel.
[0004]
4. Packaging (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the first and second portions (64, 66) of the fragility line (62) are generally mirror images of each other.
[0005]
5.Packaging (10) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the first and second portions (64, 66) of the fragility line (62) are spaced out from the central longitudinal axis by a greater distance than than 3 mm.
[0006]
6.Packaging (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one side panel (16, 18) of the packaging (11) further comprises a seam (32, 34), the seam (32, 34) being coaxial with the longitudinal central axis.
[0007]
Packaging (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises at least one finger opening (56) extending through the tongue (40, 42), the third portion (68) of the line fragility (62) being arranged below the finger opening (56).
[0008]
8. Packaging (10) containing an opening feature comprises: a plurality of disposable absorbent articles (26); and a package (11) having a front panel (12), a rear panel (14), an upper panel (20), a lower panel (22), and a pair of side panels (16, 18), the panels cooperatively defining an interior compartment (24) of the package (11), at least one of the panels having an opening feature (60) configured to move the package (10) from a closed configuration, sealed to an open configuration when at least , a threshold force is applied to the opening feature (60), characterized by the fact that the plurality of disposable absorbent articles (26) is compressed inside the inner compartment (24) of the package (11), applying a force inside the package against the package (11) is arranged in at least one row that extends between the side panels (16, 18), the threshold being between 4.45 and 88.96 Newtons (1 and 20 pounds) and less than the force within the packing.
[0009]
9.Packaging (10) according to claim 8, characterized by the fact that the threshold force is between 8.90 and 44.48 Newtons (2 and 10 pounds).
[0010]
10.Packaging (10) according to claim 9, characterized by the fact that the threshold force is 35.59 Newtons (8 pounds).
[0011]
11.Packaging (10) according to claim 8, characterized by the fact that the force inside the packaging is between 31.14 and 53.38 Newtons (7 and 12 pounds).
[0012]
12. Packaging (10) according to claim 11, characterized by the fact that the force inside the packaging is 40.03 Newtons (9 pounds).
[0013]
13. Packaging (10) according to claim 8, characterized by the fact that the opening feature (60) is arranged on one of the side panels (16, 18).
[0014]
Packaging (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that the plurality of disposable absorbent articles (26) consists of one among a plurality of incontinence garments, a plurality of infant diapers, a plurality of diapers transition, a plurality of absorbent swimming pants, a plurality of hygienic napkins, a plurality of feminine pads.
[0015]
15.Packaging (10) containing an opening feature comprising: a plurality of disposable absorbent articles (26); and a package (11) that has a front panel (12), a rear panel (14), an upper panel (20), a lower panel (22), and a couple of side panels (16, 18), the panels defining cooperatively an inner compartment (24) of the package (11), the plurality of disposable absorbent articles (26) being compressed within the inner compartment (24), at least one of the side panels (16, 18) having an opening feature (60 ) including a tongue (40, 42) and a fragility line (62) that extends through and is operationally connected to the tongue (40, 42), the tongue (40, 42) having an upper edge (44), a panel inner (52) and an outer panel (54), the inner and outer panels (52, 54) defining a pocket (50), the fragility line (62) comprising a first portion (64), a second portion (66) and a third portion (68) that extends between and connects the first and second portions (64, 66), characterized by the fact that the third portion (68) of the brittleness (62) is located at least partly on the inner panel (52) and spaced from the top edge (44) of the tongue (40, 42), the tongue (40, 42) is generally triangular in shape and including the top edge (44) and two diagonal ends (46, 46 ') that extend downward from the top edge (44) and converge to a common point (48, 48'), the first and second portions (64, 66) of the fragility line (62) extends across the diagonal ends (48, 48 '), the third portion (68) of the fragility line (62) connects to the first and second portions (64, 66) at the location where the first and second portions (64, 66) extend through the respective diagonal end.
[0016]
Packaging (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that the part of the third portion (68) located on the inner panel (52) of the tongue (40, 42) is spaced from the point (48, 48 ') of the tongue (40, 42) at a distance of 25% to 75% of the distance from the point (48, 48 ') of the upper edge (44) of the tongue (40, 42).
[0017]
Packing (10) according to claim 16, characterized in that the part of the third portion (68) located on the inner panel (52) of the tongue (40, 42) is spaced from the point (48, 48 ') of the tongue (40, 42) at a distance of 66% of the distance from the point (48, 48 ') of the upper edge (44) of the tongue (40,42).
[0018]
18. Packaging (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that the tongue (40, 42) includes at least one finger opening (56) which extends through the outer panel (54) of the tongue (40) , 42), the third portion (68) of the fragility line (62) being arranged below at least one finger opening (56).
[0019]
19. Packaging (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that the plurality of disposable absorbent articles (26) consists of one among a plurality of incontinent garments, a plurality of infant diapers, a plurality of diapers transition, a plurality of absorbent swimming pants, a plurality of hygienic napkins, a plurality of feminine pads.
[0020]
Packaging (10) according to claim 15, characterized in that the upper panel (20) includes a longitudinally extending line of fragility.

类似技术:

公开号 | 公开日 | 专利标题

BR112013030954B1|2020-12-15|PACKAGE CONTAINING AN OPENING FEATURE

RU2347732C2|2009-02-27|Compressed package with opening mechanism and element of expansion

AU2005278110B2|2011-06-09|A flexible package having an easy opening feature

US7168563B2|2007-01-30|Dispensing aid for facilitating removal of individual products from a compressed package

BRPI0621276B1|2018-08-14|FLEXIBLE PACKING

KR20070085934A|2007-08-27|Shape retaining flexible package with easy access opening feature

EP1778567B1|2008-09-03|Arrangement for removal of an absorbent article from a stack of absorbent articles

KR20080045160A|2008-05-22|Individual, expandable wrapper for a hygiene product

SK278770B6|1998-02-04|The bag for packing having opening device

US20060096880A1|2006-05-11|Dispensing aid for facilitating removal of individual products from a compressed package

EP3012207B1|2018-07-25|Flexible package

AU2017203792B2|2018-08-30|An opening feature for packaging having absorbent articles contained therein

WO2013035280A1|2013-03-14|Packaging bag for absorbent articles

US10543134B2|2020-01-28|Band-fastened convenience-packaging for storing absorbent personal care articles

US20090050507A1|2009-02-26|Packages of absorbent articles with with premiums

JP6195289B2|2017-09-13|Packaging bag

WO2006052760A1|2006-05-18|Dispensing aid for facilitating removal of individual products from a compressed package

EP1786432A1|2007-05-23|Arrangement for the removal of an absorbent article from a stack of absorbent articles

JP3027184B2|2000-03-27|Side-open flexible bag with longitudinally oriented carrying handle secured to side panel

BR202016007039U2|2017-04-04|adjustable outer carton for storing packed absorbent items

同族专利:

公开号 | 公开日

US8490793B2|2013-07-23|

EP2723653A4|2015-03-25|

CN103635400B|2016-09-28|

RU2608279C2|2017-01-17|

KR101936452B1|2019-01-08|

BR112013030954A2|2016-12-06|

MX2013014238A|2014-02-17|

WO2012176078A1|2012-12-27|

US20120325716A1|2012-12-27|

RU2013157866A|2015-07-27|

KR20140040161A|2014-04-02|

CN103635400A|2014-03-12|

EP2723653A1|2014-04-30|

MX341233B|2016-08-09|

EP2723653B1|2018-02-28|

引用文献:

公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题

US2672233A|1949-11-30|1954-03-16|Continental Can Co|Package|

CA1308392C|1987-10-30|1992-10-06|Francis Robert Feaver|Plastic carrier bag with cut-out carry handle|

GB8815330D0|1988-06-28|1988-08-03|Procter & Gamble|Opening device for flexible bags filled with compressed flexible articles|

US4934535A|1989-04-04|1990-06-19|The Procter & Gamble Company|Easy open flexible bag filled with compressed flexible articles and method and apparatus for making same|

US5022216A|1989-04-04|1991-06-11|The Procter & Gamble Company|Method and apparatus for making easy open flexible bag filled with compressed flexible articles|

US4966286A|1989-06-26|1990-10-30|The Procter & Gamble Company|Easy open flexible bag|

US5054619A|1989-12-15|1991-10-08|The Procter & Gamble Company|Side opening flexible bag with longitudinally oriented carrying handle secured to side panels|

US5121995A|1990-08-27|1992-06-16|Kimberly-Clark Corporation|Loop-handle bag with improved accessibility feature|

DE4028508C2|1990-09-07|1994-01-20|Sengewald Karl H Gmbh|Pack, in particular for compressible packaged goods|

US5065868A|1990-10-23|1991-11-19|Cornelissen Roger E|Package consisting of a paper bag compactly packing compressed flexible articles|

US5050742A|1990-11-02|1991-09-24|The Procter & Gamble Company|Easy opening package containing compressed flexible articles|

DE9107954U1|1991-06-28|1991-08-14|M & W Verpackungen Mildenberger & Willing Gmbh, 4432 Gronau, De|

CA2131091C|1992-02-27|2005-07-05|Daniel J. Conrad|An easy opening flexible plastic bag and a method of making same|

US5282687A|1992-02-28|1994-02-01|Kimberly-Clark Corporation|Flexible packaging with compression release, top opening feature|

CA2084150A1|1992-08-06|1994-02-07|Douglas L. Miller|Flexible packaging bag with expansion force release, end opening feature|

DE4307842C2|1993-03-12|2000-01-20|Kobusch Folien Gmbh|Packaging bags|

AT159690T|1993-03-30|1997-11-15|Procter & Gamble|COMPACT PACKAGING CONSISTING OF A STACK OF FLEXIBLE ITEMS PACKED IN A PACKAGING|

EP0720574B1|1993-09-23|1998-06-10|The Procter & Gamble Company|Flexible bag for containing compressed articles having an improved opening feature|

US5380094A|1994-02-03|1995-01-10|The Procter & Gamble Company|Easy open feature for polymeric package with contents under high compression|

US5722773A|1994-11-29|1998-03-03|Bemis Company Inc.|Plastic bag having a handle integral with the gusset|

JP3724931B2|1997-09-16|2005-12-07|花王株式会社|Packing bag for compressed articles with opening|

JP3886226B2|1997-09-25|2007-02-28|大王製紙株式会社|Paper diaper packaging bag with unwrapped lead wire|

US20020112982A1|2001-02-21|2002-08-22|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Flexible package and handle and method of using same|

US6698928B2|2001-12-21|2004-03-02|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Flexible packages having reusable pull-tab openers|

US7866473B2|2004-07-29|2011-01-11|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Flexible package having an easy opening feature|

US20060124494A1|2004-12-09|2006-06-15|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Shape retaining flexible package with easy access opening feature|

US7780006B2|2005-12-30|2010-08-24|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Flexible package with opening feature|

RU69025U1|2007-07-06|2007-12-10|ООО "Марс"|BULK FOR BULK PRODUCT|

AT491651T|2008-04-14|2011-01-15|Procter & Gamble|FLEXIBLE PACKING WITH OPENING DEVICE|

EP2110338B1|2008-04-14|2010-08-04|The Procter and Gamble Company|Flexible Package with Tearing Means|

WO2010062231A1|2008-11-27|2010-06-03|Sca Hygiene Products Ab|A packaging bag for absorbent articles|CN103249646A|2010-08-11|2013-08-14|哈科安全设备股份有限公司|Safety equipment bag|

JP5791400B2|2011-07-08|2015-10-07|コスモテック株式会社|Absorbent packaging bag|

WO2013063304A1|2011-10-26|2013-05-02|Salus Corporation D B A Icp Medical|Gown dispensing systems and gown configurations therefor|

US8873350B2|2012-07-27|2014-10-28|Seagate Technology Llc|Heat assisted media recording apparatus with compensating heater|

US9889963B2|2012-12-20|2018-02-13|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Refillable dispensing container for stacked moist wipes|

US10435229B2|2012-12-20|2019-10-08|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Slip-resistant dispensing container for stacked moist wipes|

US9125532B2|2012-12-20|2015-09-08|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Storing and dispensing container for wipes|

US9932149B2|2013-05-22|2018-04-03|The Procter & Gamble Company|Package with integrally formed handle and method of making the same|

US20150144649A1|2013-11-25|2015-05-28|Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Wet Wipe Refill Container Indicator|

EP3119365B1|2014-03-20|2018-05-09|The Procter and Gamble Company|Humidity-stable package of disposable absorbent articles with wetness indicators|

US9771185B2|2014-06-18|2017-09-26|Georgia-Pacific Consumer Products Lp|Package with a multi-piece handle|

EP3012207B1|2014-10-21|2018-07-25|The Procter and Gamble Company|Flexible package|

JP6358169B2|2015-05-15|2018-07-18|王子ホールディングス株式会社|Packaging bags and packages|

AU2015101209A4|2015-08-31|2015-10-08|Kimberly Clark Worldwide, Inc.|Splittable outer packaging for absorbent personal care products.|

EP3315428B1|2016-10-28|2019-12-18|The Procter and Gamble Company|Reclosable package and a method of making the same|

CN109803904A|2016-10-28|2019-05-24|宝洁公司|Opening with enhancing and the package of absorbent articles for re-closing ability|

US20190047766A1|2017-08-12|2019-02-14|C. R. Bard, Inc.|Product package|

EP3632812A1|2018-10-01|2020-04-08|Grupo P.I. Mabe S.A. de C.V.|Absorbent article packaging with improved opening system|

DE102019135698A1|2019-12-23|2021-06-24|Paul Hartmann Ag|Cuboid pouch package comprising a pouch and a plurality of hygiene articles or medical documents or surgical articles received therein|

法律状态:
2018-03-27| B15K| Others concerning applications: alteration of classification|Ipc: B65D 75/58 (2006.01) |

2018-12-11| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|

2019-09-03| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|

2020-04-28| B07A| Technical examination (opinion): publication of technical examination (opinion) [chapter 7.1 patent gazette]|

2020-10-13| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|

2020-12-15| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 16/05/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

优先权:

申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

US13/166,490|2011-06-22|

US13/166,490|US8490793B2|2011-06-22|2011-06-22|Opening feature for packaging having absorbent articles contained therein|

PCT/IB2012/052478|WO2012176078A1|2011-06-22|2012-05-16|An opening feature for packaging having absorbent articles contained therein|

[返回顶部]