Patents by Inventor Wendy S. Nichols

Wendy S. Nichols has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 5931582
    Abstract: A flexible package includes a closure arrangement having first and second closure members. Each of the first and second closure members has a pull tab extending from a respective flange. The pull tabs are constructed and arranged to selectively disengage the first and second closure members and provide access to an interior of the flexible package. Each of the pull tabs is movable between a resting position, where the tab is lying against its respective flange, and a working position, where the tab is spaced from its respective flange. Methods for constructing and using a flexible package are provided herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Wendy S. Nichols
  • Patent number: 5660479
    Abstract: A package header arrangement includes a header with first and second opposing films, a tear bead and a support member. The support member is attached to the first film below the tear bead. The tear bead is disposed between the first and second films. When heat and pressure are applied to the first and second films in proximity to the tear bead, the tear bead scores the first and second films creating a breakable tear bead line. When heat and pressure are applied, the tear bead pushes aside the inner layer of the first and second films, weakening the film along the breakable tear bead line without harming the hermetic seal provided by the films. The breakable tear bead line tears easily because it does not have the tough, flexible inner layer of the films to aid in tear resistance. The breakable tear bead line also provides an even tear along a straight line. The support member provides support while tearing along the breakable tear bead line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy J. May, Richard G. Custer, Catherine E. Kettner, Wendy S. Nichols