Abstract: A method of continuously forming a packaging sleeve of heat-shrinkable thermoplastic with an integral tear strip, the sleeve comprising a flattened tube having a first wall and second wall connected along parallel first and second lines of connection; lines of weakness formed in the first and second walls proximate to one of the lines of connection; the lines of weakness and the line of connection defining tear strip zones therebetween; a reinforcing-levering band in the tear strip zones formed by welding superimposed portions of the first and second walls; the reinforcing levering band being disposed parallel to the lines of weakness and in combination with the zones and lines of weakness establishing a tear strip for opening the sleeve.

Abstract: A packaging sleeve of heat-shrinkable thermoplastic comprising a flattened tube having a first wall and second wall connected along parallel first and second lines of connection; lines of weakness formed in said first and second walls proximate to one of said lines of connection; said lines of weakness and the line of connection defining tear strip zones therebetween; a reinforcing-levering band in said zones formed by welding superimposed portions of said first and second walls; said reinforcing levering band being disposed parallel to said lines of weakness and in combination with said zones and lines of weakness establishing a tear strip for opening the sleeve.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a new and improved method of continuously forming a heat shrinkable packaging medium from PVC tubing comprising the steps of supporting a roll of flat folded heat shrinkable seamless tubing material for controlled unwinding; directing a web of tubing drawn from said roll toward a sealing station; directing said unseamed tube to an ultrasonic welding station; applying ultrasonic welding energy exteriorly and transversely of said tube for less than the full width thereof while pinching the walls thereof between an ultrasonic horn means bearing against lower exterior surfaces of said tubing and a sealing bar means bearing against the upper surfaces of said tubing to weld said walls into a permanent joint and to form an air relief port; advancing the welded tube from said welding station to a severing station; severing said tubing downstream of said joint to separate an individual bag having an open end and closed end.

Abstract: A multiple compartment banding sleeve is proposed in the form of a cylindrical band of heat shrinkable material, e.g., PVC, which is divided into two or more envelopes by longitudinal seams. The sleeve may be used to wrap, protect and display a grouping of similar or dissimilar items.