Impregnated wipe package with features improving handling and reducing transdermal migration

Abstract

A wipe package includes an impregnated wipe, a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe and having an exterior surface, and at least one receptacle on the exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe. The sealed package includes a front sheet, a first rear sheet having an interior surface and an exterior surface, and a second rear sheet. The impregnated wipe is secured to an interior surface of the first rear sheet, and at least the front sheet and the first rear sheet seal the impregnated wipe. The receptacle is formed between the exterior surface of the first rear sheet and the second rear sheet. The receptacle includes at least one of a pocket and a strap.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention generally relates to impregnated wipes and pads. More particularly, the present invention relates to materials and packaging for wipes and pads providing for improved performance and user protection.

[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0004] Various types of impregnated wipes and pads are available in the marketplace. Such wipes are used for the application of a variety of formularies, such as lotions, sunscreen, insect repellents and cleaning fluids. These wipes are typically marketed as an alternative means to distribute a formulary of the particular company marketing the wipe. For instance, an insect repellent company having a proprietary insect repellent may market an insect repellent wipe, a suntan lotion company may market a suntan lotion wipe, and a cleaning fluid company may market a cleaning fluid wipe.

[0005] For the purpose of applying a selected formulary to a surface, a material is impregnated with the selected formulary. The material impregnated with the formulary constitutes the wipe or pad. The wipe or pad is then packaged for user convenience and to protect the wipe, for example, from evaporation or contamination, or both.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] With the increasing popularity of the use of impregnated wipes for the convenient application of formularies, numerous products developed by companies have not been marketed for use as impregnated wipes. One reason for this unavailability of formularies in impregnated wipes appears to be the high probability of transdermal migration of the formulary contained in the impregnated wipe through the skin of the user's hand or body parts when in contact with the impregnated wipe. Certain formularies should not come in contact with the skin including products that are toxic, could discolor the skin, have undesirable odors or may leave the user's skin in a condition that the user may not like.

[0007] Additionally, some pharmaceutical products should only be applied to a limited area of the body and transdermal migration through the user's skin might constitute an overdose of the medication. Further, users of impregnated wipes may not want to receive any formulary on their skin when applying formulary to surfaces other than their own body.

[0008] Another reason for the lack of certain formularies in impregnated wipes appears to be because the processes for the packaging surrounding the impregnated wipe have not addressed the user's need for a secure way to grip or hold the impregnated wipe and additionally prevent transdermal migration.

[0009] There are many different impregnated wipes available. Typically, impregnated wipes are pulled out of a bulk container or removed from a single use package prior to usage. The user's skin (hand) will come in contact with the formulary impregnated into the wipe. Additionally, the way that impregnated wipes are delivered to consumers and businesses, in the marketplace, has limited their usage in conjunction with formularies that stain, have undesirable smell or texture, or might present toxic exposure. Examples of known formularies that user's may not want in contact with their skin include: shoe polish, stains, paints, solvents, lubricants, pharmaceuticals and any potential toxic substance.

[0010] Based on the foregoing, consumers and businesses are in need of a way to exploit the convenience and portability of impregnated wipes in accordance with formularies that are undesirable when in contact with the user's skin. Accordingly, one aspect involves an innovative approach to improving methods, systems and processes in packaging and impregnated wipe materials to prevent the unwanted migration of formulary from the impregnated wipe to the user's skin.

[0011] One aspect involves a wipe package having an impregnated wipe and a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe, wherein the sealed package has an exterior surface. Further, the wipe package includes at least one receptacle on the exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe.

[0012] Another aspect involves a wipe package having an impregnated wipe and a non-permeable layer on a rear surface of the impregnated wipe, wherein at least the non-permeable layer seals the impregnated wipe in a folded and closed condition.

[0013] A further aspect involves wipe package having an impregnated wipe, a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe and having an exterior surface, and at least one receptacle on the exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe. The sealed package includes a front sheet, a first rear sheet having an interior surface and an exterior surface, and a second rear sheet. The impregnated wipe is secured to an interior surface of the first rear sheet, and at least the front sheet and the first rear sheet seal the impregnated wipe. The receptacle is formed between the exterior surface of the first rear sheet and the second rear sheet.

[0014] Another aspect involves a wipe package having an impregnated wipe and a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe, wherein the sealed package has an exterior surface. Further, the wipe package has at least one receptacle on the exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe. The sealed package includes a front sheet, a rear sheet, and a non-permeable layer on a rear surface of the impregnated wipe. At least the front sheet and the non-permeable layer seal the impregnated wipe. The receptacle is formed between the rear sheet and the non-permeable layer of the impregnated wipe.

[0015] A still further aspect involves a wipe package having an impregnated wipe and a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe, wherein the sealed package has an exterior surface. The wipe package has further at least one receptacle on the exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe. The sealed package includes a front sheet and a rear sheet, which seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the rear sheet includes the receptacle.

[0016] Another aspect involves a wipe package having an impregnated wipe and a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe, wherein the sealed package has an exterior surface. The wipe package includes at least one receptacle on the exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe, wherein the sealed package includes a front sheet and a rear sheet, which seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the rear sheet includes the receptacle. An adhesive layer on an exterior surface of the rear sheet is configured to adhere to at least a part of the user's hand.

[0017] A further aspect involves a method of manufacturing a wipe package. A packaging material having an interior surface and an exterior surface is provided and a receptacle is formed on the exterior surface of the packaging material. An impregnated wipe is sealed with the packaging material so that the interior surface faces the impregnated wipe, wherein the receptacle is configured to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe.

[0018] Another aspect involves a wipe package having a rear sheet of packaging material and two impregnated wipes. A first impregnated wipe is attached to the rear sheet, and a second impregnated wipe is attached to the first impregnated wipes. The second impregnated wipe is removable from the first impregnated wipe to expose the first impregnated wipe for use.

[0019] A wipe or pad in accordance with certain embodiments significantly reduces and or eliminates the transdermal migration of unwanted formulary from the impregnated wipe to the user's skin. A non-permeable barrier exists between the user's skin and the impregnated wipe providing a new improved way to exploit the convenience of impregnated wipes for a greater variety of formularies. For example, the non-permeable barrier is a part of the impregnated wipe packaging or included on one side of the impregnated wipe material.

[0020] A wipe or pad in accordance with certain embodiments has the advantage of improving the ability of the packaging to stabilize the location or grip, in the user's hand, of the impregnated wipe while using it to apply the formulary.

[0021] Preferably, one layer of the packaging may be removed from the second layer to expose the impregnated wipe's surface for application of the formulary. The exposed impregnated wipe is attached to the second layer by a variety of techniques that are known in the art. The second layer acts as the non-permeable membrane between the impregnated wipe and the user's hand (skin). The third layer is attached to the second layer forming a pocket for the insertion of the user's finger(s) or hand.

[0022] Using any of the herein described methods to secure the finger(s) or hand to the impregnated wipe, the active formulary surface may be exposed by separating the edges of the impregnated wipe, maintaining the hand or fingers to the non-permeable coating of the impregnated wipe by die-cut hole, strap or adhesive and effectively applying the wipe formulary without causing transdermal migration.

[0023] For summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the invention are described herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The present invention is described in more detail below in connection with the attached drawings, which are meant to illustrate and not limit the invention, and in which:

[0025] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package;

[0026] FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 1, taken along the line 2-2;

[0027] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 1, illustrating the peeling off of the rear side coupon of the package;

[0028] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a further embodiment of an impregnated wipe package;

[0029] FIG. 5 is a rear view of a coupon for an impregnated wipe package;

[0030] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a method of tracking the distribution of wipes and coupons;

[0031] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an alternative method of tracking the distribution of wipes and coupons;

[0032] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a method of tracking the redemption of coupons;

[0033] FIG. 9 is a rear view of the package of FIG. 1 with the rear side coupon peeled off;

[0034] FIG. 10 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe;

[0035] FIG. 11 illustrates a preferred method of use of an impregnated wipe;

[0036] FIG. 12 illustrates a further embodiment of an impregnated wipe sized and shaped for improved application of formulary to a person's skin.

[0037] FIG. 13A is a rear view of an alternative embodiment of the impregnated wipe of FIG. 10;

[0038] FIG. 13B is a rear view of another alternative embodiment of the impregnated wipe of FIG. 10;

[0039] FIG. 13C is a rear view of yet another alternative embodiment of the impregnated wipe of FIG. 10;

[0040] FIG. 14 is a rear view of a further embodiment of an impregnated wipe;

[0041] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of an impregnated wipe;

[0042] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of a further embodiment of an impregnated wipe package;

[0043] FIG. 17 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 16;

[0044] FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 16 illustrating the peeling off the packaging layer to expose the impregnated wipe and the placement of the hand or finger(s) in the pocket formed by the packaging;

[0045] FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of yet another embodiment of an impregnated wipe package;

[0046] FIG. 20 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 19;

[0047] FIG. 21 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 19 illustrating the peeling off the packaging layer to expose the impregnated wipe and the placement of the hand or finger(s) in the pocket formed by the packaging;

[0048] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of a further embodiment of an impregnated wipe package;

[0049] FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 22;

[0050] FIG. 24 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 22;

[0051] FIG. 25 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 22 illustrating the peeling off the packaging layer to expose the impregnated wipe and the placement of the hand or finger(s) under the strap produced by die cutting the packaging material or attaching a strap;

[0052] FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of an impregnated wipe package;

[0053] FIG. 27 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 26;

[0054] FIG. 28 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 26 illustrating the peeling off the packaging layer to expose the impregnated wipe and the placement of the hand or finger(s) against the adhesive applied to the packaging;

[0055] FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of an impregnated wipe package;

[0056] FIG. 30 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 29;

[0057] FIG. 31 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 29 illustrating the peeling off the packaging layer to expose the impregnated wipe and the placement of the hand or finger(s) against the adhesive layer on the surface of the non-permeable barrier of the impregnated wipe;

[0058] FIG. 32 is a front perspective view of a further embodiment of an impregnated wipe package showing a die cut hole through the packaging for placement of the hand or fingers;

[0059] FIG. 33 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 32;

[0060] FIG. 34 is a sectional view of FIG. 32 showing the peeling open of the packaging to reveal the impregnated wipe;

[0061] FIG. 35 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 32 illustrating the placement of the hand or finger(s) in the die cut hole of the packaging;

[0062] FIG. 36 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of an impregnated wipe package;

[0063] FIG. 37 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 36;

[0064] FIG. 38 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 36 illustrating the opening of the impregnated wipe that is coated with a non-permeable barrier;

[0065] FIGS. 39-50 show exemplary embodiments of an impregnated wipe package having various features to secure a wipe to the user's hand;

[0066] FIG. 51 is a sectional view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package having multiple layers of wipes;

[0067] FIGS. 52A and 52B show an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package having different sizes of wipe material; and

[0068] FIG. 53 shows an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package having a wipe material that unfolds.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0069] To facilitate a complete understanding of various embodiments of the invention, the remainder of the detailed description describes exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings, wherein like elements are referenced with like numerals throughout.

[0070] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a package 20 containing an impregnated wipe 22 in accordance with a first aspect of the present invention. The package 20 is preferably formed from thin compliant material, such as sealed paper, plastic or foil, as is well known in the art. It is important that the packaging material is sufficiently non-porous, to minimize or prevent absorption of substance on the wipe 22. In the present embodiment, the package 20 includes a front sheet 24 and a rear sheet 26. The edges 38 of sheets 24 and 26 are sealed together so that the rear sheet 26 can be peeled off of the package 20 if desired. Those in the art will understand that any of several well known sealing methods can be employed to achieve the purposes of this invention.

[0071] The front sheet 24 of package 20 may have printed on its exterior side 30 any materials relevant to the product, such as the product name, company name, logos, package ingredients, directions for use, promotional materials, etc. The rear sheet 26 is preferably a coupon or other advertising for another company's product(s) or service(s). In one embodiment, the coupon is adapted to be peeled from the front sheet, as shown in FIG. 3. The advertisement is preferably printed onto the exterior surface 32 of rear sheet 26, so that a purchaser may, in some packaging configurations, see the coupon advertisement before purchasing the package 20.

[0072] An alternative configuration of a wipe package 20 is illustrated in FIG. 4. In this configuration, an end 40 of the package 20 can simply be ripped off, as is typical with impregnated wipes, and the impregnated wipe 22 removed from the torn end 42 of the package, leaving the package edges still sealed together except where the wipe 22 has been removed. In this manner, the package 20 remains the coupon which can be saved for use.

[0073] As mentioned previously, impregnated wipes have typically been sold as a single formulary item such as a hand cleaner, a baby wipe, a suntan lotion, or an insect repellent. These wipes are typically sold by the company which also sells more bulk-related products of such formularies. The wipes are used by these companies to provide another marketing channel for the particular formulary. In one advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the impregnated wipes are packaged as kits or collections of various related types of wipes. The collection could be according to any number of criteria. For instance, a cosmetic package may consist of skin care items such as moisturizers, sunblocks, vitamin-enhanced formulas, eye makeup remover, and hand-cleaning or sanitation wipes. Another kit may comprise a camping kit which may contain suntan lotion or block, insect repellent, analgesic lotions or ointments, other first aid formularies, deodorant, foaming shave gel activated upon exposure to oxygen and antiperspirant wipes. Other kits are envisioned for particular applications. A kit would be formulated for particular sports such as fishing, boating, biking, skiing, and any other sport in which a formulary product or collection of such products is useful. Kits may also be formulated for beach outings, picnics, swimming, etc. By grouping the wipes in such configurations, the need to carry containers of the various lotions and other products during an outing is eliminated. For instance, during a camping trip a camper may desire to have on hand sunscreen, insect repellent, anti-itch lotion, sunburn treatment, deodorant and moisturizer. The camper could bring bottles of each of these fluids, but that would add significant unneeded weight and size to the camping gear. In addition, with common changes of altitudes for such camping activities, the bottles often leak due to pressure changes in the altitude. In comparison, it is less burdensome to carry a collection of impregnated wipes, and the risk of leakage is very small. Accordingly, the present invention includes the provision of kits or collections of related wipes.

[0074] As mentioned above, the wipe package 20 of the present invention includes a coupon 26 which forms a significant portion of the package 20. In the present embodiment, the back of the package comprises a coupon. There are numerous business advantages associated with including coupons as a part of the packaging of wipes. According to the business method of the present invention, the product marketer or manufacturer advantageously generates additional revenue and/or subsidizes some or all of the cost of packaging the wipes by including coupons or other advertisements for other companies' products as part of the packaging. The other companies would be charged a fee for placing an advertisement on a package 20 of a wipe 22. This advertising revenue offsets the cost of manufacturing and distributing the wipes 22. Preferably, these companies or coupon-advertisers provide camera-ready artwork for the rear sheet 26 according to the manufacturer's specifications. The manufacturer can also design and make the coupons 26 for a fee.

[0075] The provision of coupons or advertisements from companies which do not provide the wipes is not found in the impregnated wipes market. To the contrary, companies typically advertise or provide coupons for their own products only. By permitting other companies to advertise their related bulk products or to even sponsor the formulary in a particular line of the impregnated wipes brand, the advertiser or coupon provider will pay a fee which subsidizes the purchase price to the end-user. This would permit a substantial reduction in the purchase price which would bring the premium for impregnated wipes to a much lower level or equivalent to purchasing the bulk products. Alternatively, the additional revenue could be used to provide for increased margins for the maker.

[0076] Another advantage of including coupons or advertisements on wipe packages is that the coupon or ad has a longer “shelf life,” and thereby provides more advertising longevity. A wipe may be kept in the possession of the purchaser for a long time before being used. During that time, the purchaser may notice or be reminded of the coupon several times. As a result, the coupon or ad has a longer “shelf life” than a typical coupon or ad that is disposed of virtually immediately.

[0077] For example, a wipe may have a coupon offering a discount on the purchase of tennis balls. At the time the purchaser buys the wipe he or she may not have any need for tennis balls. However, the wipe may not be used for weeks or months, during which time the need for tennis balls may arise. Because the coupon is included within the package of an unused wipe, the purchaser will not dispose of the coupon or ad until the wipe is used. In other words, the coupon or ad forms the package and, therefore, the coupon or ad is functional and is not disposed of in the short term unlike traditional advertisements in newspapers and the like. Thus, there is a greater opportunity for the coupon to eventually be used, resulting in a sale by the advertiser.

[0078] Another advantage of including coupons on wipe packages is that coupons may be distributed directly to a general target market. For example, coupons for beach accessories could be included within packages for beach-related wipes, such as suntan lotion wipes. Furthermore, coupons may be distributed directly to a more specific target market, perhaps identified by the purchase orders received by the wipe manufacturer. According to the business method of this invention, the manufacturer gives coupon advertisers the option of combining their coupons with any specific purchase order(s) of wipes. For example, a wipe manufacturer may receive an order for 1000 wipes from Retailer X in City Y. Coupon Advertiser Z may wish to distribute coupons or ads directly to the customers of Retailer X. This provides for vast improvement in coupon placement and distribution over conventional advertising. Conventional advertisers guarantee a particular circulation, but it is difficult to isolate the types of customers who will receive the advertising. The more directly the advertisement can be traced to the consumer the advertisement is intended for, the more valuable the advertising. In one embodiment in accordance with the present invention, because the wipe manufacturer may solicit advertising for a particular known purchase order from a particular retailer or other customer, a prospective advertiser can be assured that the advertising coupons are being placed in the particular target market which is desired. Coupon Advertiser Z simply buys space for its coupons to be placed on packages of those wipes sent to the desired retailer and wipe.

[0079] Another important advantage of including coupons is that, by tracking the sales and shipments of wipes and coupons, a wipe manufacturer can provide valuable distribution and advertising information to retailers and coupon-advertisers. According to the business method of the present invention, the manufacturer maintains a world wide website wherein retailers and coupon-advertisers can access confidential records pertaining to the distribution of wipes and coupons. Individual passwords are provided to the retailers and coupon-advertisers to maintain confidentiality of their records.

[0080] According to this business method, retailers and coupon-advertisers may access valuable distribution information to aid them in making future orders and requests. In particular, a retailer can learn the quantities of each type of wipe and coupon that have been ordered in the past. Such information allows the retailer to more easily identify those wipes and coupons that are generating significant sales, as well as those that are not. The retailer can then change future orders to reflect which wipes/coupons are selling successfully. Similarly, the coupon-advertisers may receive direct data on how many of their coupons have been distributed to a given geographic location. They can also learn which coupon-wipe combinations sell most frequently. Also, by comparing the quantity of coupons shipped to the quantity eventually redeemed, a coupon-advertiser can determine the redemption rate for any given coupon in a particular geographic location or channel of trade. The coupon-advertiser may then direct the manufacturer as to how many and what types of coupons are to be sent to each geographic location or channel of trade, as well as which wipes the coupons are to be combined with.

[0081] In accordance with the present invention, this information can be provided on a worldwide website accessible by the various users and the advertisers with a given password, as will be understood by those of skill in the art. This reduces the overhead for the retailers and the advertisers, who would typically track such information on their own, often in a less reliable fashion.

[0082] FIG. 5 illustrates a coupon 26 of the present invention. According to the business method of this invention, each coupon 26 includes a bar code 36 for identification purposes. Each bar code 36 is scannable by well known methods, and when scanned is configured to reveal a coupon identification code. Advantageously, the bar code may also be configured to identify the particular wipe from which the coupon originated, by revealing a wipe identification code. These identification codes correspond to the particular coupon and the particular type of wipe included within the package, respectively. Further, the bar code of a coupon may be scanned at three separate stages. It may be scanned when the wipe manufacturer distributes the wipes to a retailer (distribution stage), when the retailer sells the wipe package (retail stage), or when the purchaser redeems the coupon (redemption stage).

[0083] According to one preferred business method of this invention, illustrated in FIG. 6, the regular practice of the wipe manufacturer is to scan the bar code 36 at the distribution stage, in order to keep track of the quantity of every type of wipe, coupon, and wipe-coupon combination sold and shipped to each retailer. As illustrated in FIG. 6, a system to implement this method utilizes the Internet 100. A manufacturer's local scan station 102 provides data via the Internet to the manufacturer's local server which maintains an Internet site to access relevant data. Alternatively, the manufacturer's local scan station 102 is coupled directly to the manufacturer's local server 104. However, use of the Internet 100 allows the manufacturer to have multiple local scan stations at different manufacturing points, and one server maintaining the Internet site. The retailers may access information about their own shipments from the manufacturer through their own browser 106. Similarly, advertisers may access the usage of their coupons, such as the numbers and locations of shipments via their browser 108. The retailers and advertisers, advantageously, access the manufacturer's Internet site through password protected access codes. Preferably, the manufacturer's Internet site is restricted to registered users, and furthermore, restricts each user to access to its own information. Each time the manufacturer receives an order for wipes of various types and quantities, the manufacturer scans the bar code 36 of each wipe package before packing and shipping it to the retailer. The manufacturer records the coupon identification code and wipe identification code of each coupon distributed, as well as the location of the retailer where the wipes will be sold. As indicated above, access to some or all of this information is provided to the ordering retailer and coupon advertiser via the Internet site controlled and maintained by the manufacturer.

[0084] The same benefits may be obtained if, instead, the regular practice is for the retailer to scan the bar code 36 at the retail stage, i.e., every time a wipe/coupon is sold. According to this model, illustrated in FIG. 7, the retailer is supplied with a middleware software program that tracks coupon identification codes, wipe identification codes, and location of sale. As illustrated in FIG. 7, again the manufacturer maintains a Internet site 104 accessible via the Internet 100. Information stored on the manufacturer's Internet website with a database is provided by the retailer's local scan station 120. For example, each time a retailer sells a package of wipes, the middleware software solution may automatically connect to the Internet and provide such information to the manufacturer's server 104. Alternatively, the retailer periodically uploads such information to the manufacturer's server 104. Similar to the embodiment of tracking at the distribution station of FIG. 6, the retailers may access their own usage and the advertisers may access the usage of their coupons by accessing the manufacturer's server 104 via the Internet 100. The middleware may be adapted to transmit information to the manufacturer's server on a scheduled basis. The manufacturer's server is equipped with software that updates the manufacturer's website to reflect the sale of each particular wipe/coupon. While scanning at the retail stage provides the same information as scanning during the distribution stage described above, the latter is preferred because it provides the manufacturer with greater control over the entire record-keeping process, resulting in a better and more accurate website for the retailer and advertiser.

[0085] Finally, scanning the bar code 36 at the redemption stage provides attractive benefits to coupon-advertisers. According to this model, illustrated in FIG. 8, retailers of all of the products and/or services advertised in the coupons are provided with middleware software that scans the bar code of a coupon and transmits the coupon identification code, wipe identification code, and location of redemption back to the manufacturer's server. The manufacturer's server 104 is equipped with software that updates the manufacturer's website to reflect the redemption of that particular coupon. The website provides this data to the coupon-advertisers. Preferably, the website also displays the redemption rates for each of the advertiser's coupon-types in each of the geographic locations and channels of trade to which the coupons were distributed. Thus, the advertiser can learn which coupons are being redeemed more frequently, and the location of most frequent redemption for any given coupon type. This, of course, allows both the wipe company and advertiser to more accurately value the advertising. In this embodiment, the system would comprise the Internet 100, the manufacturer's server 104 and the retailer Internet browser 106 and the advertiser Internet browser 108. In place of the wipe retailer's local scan station or manufacturer's local scan station a scan station 130 of the redeeming party is provided with a middleware solution which uploads data preferably on a automatically schedule periodic basis, to the manufacturer's server about coupon redemption.

[0086] FIG. 9 depicts an alternative embodiment of an advantageous package 20 for use with formularies which may be particularly bothersome when left on the hands. As depicted in FIG. 9, the package 20 is ready for use after the rear sheet coupon 26 (FIG. 2) has been peeled off. Wipe 22 is preferably secured to the interior surface 31 of front sheet 24 of the package 20. Preferably, wipe 22 is glued onto surface 31. Also, wipe 22 can be formed from any well-known material, as will be apparent to those in the art. Preferably, such material is significantly porous to promote the absorption of lotion or other fluids. A user can apply the impregnated formulary to his or her skin simply by positioning the wipe 22 onto the skin and wiping with one hand placed on the dry exterior surface 30 (FIG. 2) of front sheet 24. This embodiment is particularly useful for compounds which may be bothersome, such as a zinc oxide sunblock formulary to be placed on the user's nose or other sensitive sun exposed portions of the body without leaving the zinc oxide residue on the fingers of the user.

[0087] Another embodiment of the present invention is depicted in FIG. 10. As explained above, the advantage of having a wipe attached to the package 20 is that it allows the user to avoid leaving residue on his or her fingers after use. Accordingly, as depicted in FIG. 10, in order to allow for increased control during application, wipe 22 optionally includes a dry notch 28. This allows the user to place a finger on the interior surface 31 of front sheet 24, within the notch 28, without getting lotion or other fluids on the user's hand. Best results are achieved by placing one's thumb in the notch 28 and the other four fingers on the exterior surface 30 of sheet 24, as shown in FIG. 11. A plurality of notches 28 could also be provided.

[0088] The notch 28 may be any of a wide range of shapes. For example, referring to FIG. 13A, the wipe 22 is secured to the interior surface 31 of front sheet 24, as discussed above. However, the wipe 22 is smaller than the interior surface 31 of the front sheet 24 so that a user may place a thumb or other digit on a periphery 40 of the front sheet 24 without contacting the formulary in the wipe 22. This may be advantageous in application of the formulary.

[0089] FIG. 13B illustrates an alternative embodiment of the wipe 22 secured to the inner surface 31 of the front sheet 24. The wipe 22 in this embodiment is angled such that the notch 28 permits easy application of the formulary, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. As illustrated in FIG. 13C, the wipe 22 may be configured in any of a wide range of shapes to accommodate a notch 28 in the wipe 22 to permit application of the formulary in the wipe 22 without a user's thumb or other digit contacting the formulary in the wipe 22.

[0090] FIG. 14 illustrates a wipe 22 secured to the inner surface 31 of a front sheet 24 of the package 20. In this embodiment, an extra layer 42 of cellophane or other materials known to those of skill in the art is provided between the wipe 22 and the second or back sheet 26 (not shown). Once the back sheet is removed, the layer 42 may be peeled back to permit application of the formulary without contact therewith. For example, an individual may hold the outer surface of the front sheet 24 and the surface of the layer 42 away from the wipe 22 so as to prevent contact with the wipe 22. However, because the layer 42 is peeled back exposing a portion of the wipe 22, application of the formulary may be accomplished, as will be understood by those of skill in the art.

[0091] FIG. 12 illustrates another alternative embodiment of the present invention. Conventional wipes are typically rectangular or square which can be awkward to use. Accordingly, FIG. 12 illustrates an improved shape for an impregnated wipe. A wipe 34 is shaped and configured for improved manageability and easier application of the impregnated formulary. In particular, wipe 34 is adapted to prevent excessive folding or rolling during use. Wipe 34 has a substantially curvilinear shape, without any sharp corners that would normally promote folding or rolling of the wipe 34. In an embodiment where the curved shape wipe is attached to one side of the package as in the embodiment of FIG. 9, the wipe could have an oval shape as in FIG. 12, which is approximately sized to fit within a person's hand. In this embodiment, the wipe 34, front sheet 24, and rear sheet 26 may have substantially the same shape. Although shown in an oval shape, wipe 34 could be configured to have any of a variety of suitable shapes (such as circular) and sizes, giving due consideration to the goals of improved manageability, ease of use, and substantial prevention of rolling or folding of the edges of the wipe. Also, wipe 34 preferably includes a dry notch 28 as described above in the embodiment of FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0092] Moreover, the periphery of a package 20 need not correspond with the outer dimension of a wipe 22. For example, the package 20 may be square or rectangular and the wipe 22 could be oval or round, as will be readily understood by those of skill in the art. For example, FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate a wipe 22 having an outer periphery which does not correspond with the outer periphery of the package 20.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 15, another embodiment of the package 20 is shown. In this embodiment, the wipe 22 is secured between a front sheet 24 and a rear sheet 26, as described with respect to FIGS. 1-3 above; however, an additional second rear sheet 44 is secured to the rear sheet 26 by any method known to those of skill in the art. In this embodiment, a coupon may be printed on the second rear sheet 44. If an individual wishes to redeem the coupon, the individual may peel off the second rear sheet 44 and redeem the coupon without opening and exposing the wipe 22. That is, the wipe 22 would remain securely packaged between the front and rear sheets 24, 26. In this embodiment of the package 20, a second coupon may be printed on the rear sheet 26. Thus, the package 20 may contain a plurality of coupons on a plurality of sheets, as will be understood by those of skill in the art. Advantageously, this method permits consumers to redeem coupons immediately and use a wipe 22 at a later time.

[0094] FIGS. 16-38 show a variety of embodiments of wipes and wipe packages. The skilled artisan will appreciate that the inventive features of these embodiments may be implemented in or combined with the embodiments described above with reference to FIGS. 1-5 and 9-15. For example, certain embodiments may include one or more notches 28 shown in FIGS. 13B and 13C. Further, these embodiments may include a coupon in the various embodiments described above.

[0095] These embodiments significantly reduce the transdermal migration of unwanted formulary from the impregnated wipe to the user's skin. Further, these embodiments have the advantage of improving the ability of the packaging to stabilize the location or grip, in the user's hand, of the impregnated wipe while using it to apply the formulary.

[0096] Those of ordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that a variety of packaging materials exist that are suitable to encapsulate impregnated wipes. These packaging materials may be laminated materials or co-extruded materials. Depending on the intended use of the wipe, the packaging materials may be more or less flexible. Further, some materials may include a sealant at selected locations, or covering complete surfaces, so that heat or electronic welds create a seal between the materials at the locations where the heat is applied. Machines that produce the wipe packages can form, weld, seal, glue, shape and die-cut.

[0097] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20 configured to allow the user to securely hold the wipe package 20. Similar to the previous embodiments, the package 20 includes a wipe 22 and packaging material including a front sheet 24 and a rear sheet 26, which have properties as described above, for example, with respect to FIGS. 1-3. The impregnated wipe 22 is sealed between the front and rear sheets 24, 26 to maintain the integrity of the impregnated wipe's formulary. The package 20 includes further a second rear sheet 46 secured to the rear sheet 26. FIG. 17, which is a sectional view of the package 20 shown in FIG. 16, illustrates the three layer packaging structure of the wipe in a closed position.

[0098] FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the package 20 of FIG. 16 illustrating the peeling off the front sheet 24 of the packaging material to expose the impregnated wipe 22. FIG. 18 illustrates further a pocket 48 between the rear sheets 26, 46. The pocket 48 allows the user to insert a hand or one or more finger to hold the packaging material containing the impregnated wipe 22. A variety of packaging materials and sealing techniques are well known by those skilled in the art. For example, circumferential boundaries of the second rear sheet 46 may be secured to the rear sheet 26 leaving an opening for the user's hand or fingers. The sheets 26, 46 may be joined by gluing, welding or any other technique used to join sheets of packaging material.

[0099] In an alternative embodiment, the sheets 26, 46 may be joined along the complete circumference of the second rear sheet 46. When the desired side of the package 20 is opened at a perforation line or a tear strip, the pocket 48 can be opened. The use of perforations or tear strips for access through packaging is well known by the prior art.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 18, the front sheet 24 of the packaging may be removed from the rear sheet 26 to expose the impregnated wipe's surface for application of the formulary. The exposed impregnated wipe 22 is attached to the rear sheet 26 by a variety of techniques that are known by the prior art.

[0101] In one embodiment, the rear sheet 26 acts as a non-permeable membrane between the impregnated wipe 22 and the user's hand (skin). Thus, the non-permeable barrier exists between the user's skin and the impregnated wipe 22 providing a new improved way to exploit the convenience of impregnated wipes for a greater variety of formularies. For example, the non-permeable barrier is a part of the impregnated wipe packaging or included on one side of the impregnated wipe material.

[0102] FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of yet another embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes a wipe 22 and packaging material including a front sheet 24 and a rear sheet 26, which have properties as described above, for example, with respect to FIGS. 1-3. The impregnated wipe 22 is sealed between the front and rear sheets 24, 26 to maintain the integrity of the impregnated wipe's formulary. The package 20 includes further a non-permeable layer 50 between the wipe 22 and the rear sheet 26. FIG. 20, which is a sectional view of the package 20 shown in FIG. 19, illustrates the packaging structure of the wipe in a closed position.

[0103] In one embodiment, the non-permeable layer is formed by treating the rear surface of the impregnated wipe 22 with a compound so as to make the rear surface of the impregnated wipe 22 non-permeable to the formulary. The non-permeable layer is therefore implemented as a coating on the wipe 22. The treatment of surfaces to create non-permeable barriers is known to one of ordinary skill in the art. In an alternative embodiment, the non-permeable layer may be a separate layer of non-permeable material secured to the rear surface of the wipe 22.

[0104] FIG. 21 is a sectional view of the package 20 of FIG. 19 illustrating the peeling off the front sheet 24 of the packaging material to expose the impregnated wipe 22. FIG. 21 illustrates further the pocket 48 between the non-permeable layer 50 and the rear sheet 26. The pocket 48 for the user's hand or fingers may be formed by joining the sheets 24, 26 along their circumferences sealing the wipe 22. The sheets 26, 26 may be joined by gluing, welding or the like. When the user opens the desired side of the package 20 at a perforation line or a tear strip, the pocket 48 between the impregnated wipe 22 and the rear sheet 26 provides for the insertion of the user's finger(s) or hand. The use of perforations or tear strips for access through packaging is well known by the prior art. The front sheet 24 of the packaging 20 is removed to expose the surface of the impregnated wipe 22, as shown in FIG. 21.

[0105] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of a further embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes a wipe 22 and packaging material including a front sheet 24 and a rear sheet 26, which have properties as described above, for example, with respect to FIGS. 1-3. The impregnated wipe 22 is sealed between the front and rear sheets 24, 26 to maintain the integrity of the impregnated wipe's formulary. The rear sheet 26 layer acts as a non-permeable layer between the impregnated wipe 22 and the user's hand (skin). The package 20 includes further a strap 52 at the outer side of the rear sheet 26. FIGS. 23 and 24, which is are sectional views of the package 20 shown in FIG. 19, illustrates the location of the strap 52 on the rear sheet 26.

[0106] FIG. 25 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 22 illustrating the peeling off the packaging layer to expose the impregnated wipe 22 and the placement of the hand or finger(s) under the strap 52. In one embodiment, the strap 52 may be produced by die cutting the packaging material. In an alternative embodiment, the strap 52 may be produced by attaching (e.g., gluing) a strip of material, for example, foil material. The strap 52, formed by a die cut hole or a separate strap, provides for a secure grip for the insertion of the user's finger(s) or hand.

[0107] FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes a wipe 22 and packaging material including a front sheet 24 and a rear sheet 26, which have properties as described above, for example, with respect to FIGS. 1-3. The impregnated wipe 22 is sealed between the front and rear sheets 24, 26 to maintain the integrity of the impregnated wipe's formulary, as illustrated in FIG. 27. The rear sheet 26 layer acts as a non-permeable layer between the impregnated wipe 22 and the user's hand (skin). The package 20 includes further an adhesive surface 54 applied to the rear sheet 26 of the package 20. The application of adhesive materials to surfaces is known to those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the adhesive surface 54 may be similar to the surface of an adhesive tape.

[0108] FIG. 28 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 26 illustrating the peeling off the packaging layer to expose the impregnated wipe 22 and the placement of the hand or finger(s) on the adhesive surface 54. The user places his finger(s) or hand on the rear sheet 26 of the package 20 where his hand adheres to the applied adhesive layer 54.

[0109] FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes a wipe 22 and packaging material including a front sheet 24, which have properties as described above, for example, with respect to FIGS. 1-3. The package 20 includes further a non-permeable layer 50 on a rear surface of the wipe 22. The impregnated wipe 22 is sealed between the front sheet 24 and the non-permeable layer 50 to maintain the integrity of the impregnated wipe's formulary, as shown in FIG. 30. The non-permeable layer 50 separates the impregnated wipe 22 and the user's hand (skin).

[0110] FIG. 31 is a sectional view of the package of FIG. 29 illustrating the peeling off the packaging layer to expose the impregnated wipe 22 and the placement of the hand or finger(s) on the adhesive surface 54. The user places his finger(s) or hand on the rear sheet 26 of the package 20 where his hand adheres to the applied adhesive layer 54.

[0111] FIG. 32 is a front perspective view of a further embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20 having an opening 56 for placement of the user's hand or fingers. In one embodiment, the opening 56 is a die cut hole. The package 20 includes a wipe 22 secured to a packaging material 58. In a closed and folded position, the impregnated wipe 22 is sealed between the packaging material 58 to maintain the integrity of the impregnated wipe's formulary, as illustrated in FIG. 33. In one embodiment, the packaging material 58 acts as a non-permeable layer between the impregnated wipe 22 and the user's hand (skin).

[0112] FIG. 34 is a sectional view of FIG. 32 showing the peeling open of the package 20 to reveal the impregnated wipe 22. Folding the wipe 22 reduces the exterior size of the package 20. However, when the user opens the package 20 an impregnated wipe with a greater surface area is revealed. A sectional view of the opened package 20 with the placement of the hand or finger(s) in the opening 56 is shown in FIG. 35.

[0113] FIG. 36 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes an impregnated wipe 22 having a non-permeable layer 50 on a rear surface. In a closed and folded position, the impregnated wipe 22 is sealed between the non-permeable layer 50 to maintain the integrity of the impregnated wipe's formulary, as illustrated in FIG. 37. To open, the user removes or opens a sealed section 21. In one embodiment, the sealed section 21 may be re-sealable. Further, the sealed section may include a perforated section to be torn off by the user.

[0114] It is contemplated that opening of the package 20 can be accomplished by a tear seal (i.e., separating the layers), pulling a string, or by perforations. Further, it is contemplated that these opening mechanisms may be incorporated in any of the embodiments described herein.

[0115] The non-permeable layer 50 separates the impregnated wipe 22 and the user's hand (skin). The non-permeable layer 50 applied to the impregnated wipe 22 provides a barrier similar to the packaging material mentioned above. The use of non-permeable layers or coatings as vapor barriers is known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0116] FIG. 38 is a sectional view of FIG. 32 showing the peeling open of the package 20 to reveal the impregnated wipe 22. In the illustrated embodiment, no other packaging materials are required. The impregnated wipe 22 is folded and seemed to provide an airtight chamber for the impregnated wipe's formulary. The layer or coating applied to the impregnated wipe 22 not only provides a non-permeable barrier for the protection of the formulary impregnated within the wipe 22, but also is capable of being sealed or seemed in a variety of ways which are known in the art.

[0117] Now, using any of the previously described methods to secure the finger(s) or hand to the impregnated wipe, the active formulary surface may be exposed by separating the edges of the impregnated wipe, maintaining the hand or fingers to the non-permeable coating of the impregnated wipe by die-cut hole, strap or adhesive and effectively applying the wipe formulary without causing transdermal migration.

[0118] FIGS. 39-50 show exemplary embodiments of an impregnated wipe package 20 having various features to secure a wipe 22 to the user's hand. Although the following description of FIGS. 39-50 focuses on these features, it is contemplated that each impregnated wipe package 20 includes packaging material and an impregnated wipe 22 in accordance with the embodiments described above.

[0119] The illustrated wipes 22 and wipe packages 20 have a rectangular shape. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the wipes 22 and wipe packages 20 may be configured to have any of a variety of suitable shapes (such as circular or oval) and sizes, giving due consideration to the goals of improved manageability and ease of use. For example, the wipe or package, or both, may be in the shape of a hand. Generally, the wipe or package my have a variety of geometrical designs including rectangle, circle, curvilinear, shape of a hand or mitt, triangle and simicircle, or combinations of these designs.

[0120] FIG. 39 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes two features 60 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. The features 60 allow the user to hold the wipe 22 during use. In one embodiment, the features 60 are pockets formed by securing three boundaries of a sheet material to the rear side. The pockets may receive at least a part of the user's hand or one or more fingers. In the illustrated embodiment, the features 60 are positioned at opposite longitudinal ends of the package 20. However, it is contemplated that at least one of the features 60 may be offset from a longitudinal end of the package 20.

[0121] FIG. 40 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes two features 60 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the features 60 are triangular-shaped pockets. These pockets are formed similar to the pockets described with reference to FIG. 39.

[0122] FIG. 41 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes two features 60, 62 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the feature 60 is a pocket positioned at a longitudinal end of the package 20, and the feature 62 is a strap extending between longitudinal sides of the rear side at a distance from the feature 60.

[0123] FIG. 42 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes a feature 62 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the feature 62 is a strap positioned within the area of the rear side.

[0124] FIG. 43 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes two features 60, 62 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the feature 60 is a pocket positioned at a longitudinal end of the package 20, and the feature 62 is a strap positioned within the area of the rear side at a distance from the feature 60.

[0125] FIG. 44 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes two features 62 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the features 62 are spaced-apart straps extending between longitudinal sides of the rear side.

[0126] FIG. 45 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes two features 62 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the features 62 are straps. One strap extends between a longitudinal side and a longitudinal end of the package 20. The other strap is positioned within an area of the rear side at an angle with respect to the longitudinal end.

[0127] FIG. 46 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes two features 60, 64. In the illustrated embodiment, the feature 60 is a pocket secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. In one embodiment, the pocket is positioned at a longitudinal end of the package 20. The feature 64 is an opening configured to allow the user to pass through at least a part of the hand. For example, in use, the feature 64 secures the wipe 22 to the middle section of the hand, and the pocket (feature 60) receives parts of the fingers to secure the wipe 22 to the fingers.

[0128] FIG. 47 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes two features 64, 64A. In the illustrated embodiment, the features 64, 64A are openings configured to allow the user to pass through at least a part of the hand. For example, in use, the feature 64 secures the wipe 22 to the middle section of the hand, and the feature 64A receives parts of the fingers to secure the wipe 22 to the fingers.

[0129] FIG. 48 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes a feature 62 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. A feature 60 is secured to a front side of the wipe package 20, which is on the same side as the wipe 22 when in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the feature 62 is a rear strap positioned within an area of the package 20, and the feature 60 may be a front pocket or front strap. In one embodiment, the rear strap secures the wipe 22 to one or more fingers inserted through the strap on the rear side. The thumb could be placed into the front pocket or strap. If the package is made from one layer that is folded and sealed a pocket or strap could be placed on a front face adhesive layer in the same plane as the adhered wipe material.

[0130] FIG. 49 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes a feature 62 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the feature 62 is a strap extending between longitudinal sides of the rear side.

[0131] FIG. 50 is a rear view of an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20. The package 20 includes two features 60, 62 secured to a rear side of the wipe package 20, which is opposite the wipe 22 when in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the feature 60 is a pocket positioned at a longitudinal end of the package 20, and the feature 62 is a strap positioned within an area of the rear side at a distance from the feature 60. In use, the strap receives the thumb and the pocket receives one or more of the remaining fingers of the user's hand. Unlike the previous embodiments that have a rectangular shape, the embodiment of FIG. 50 has a rectangular shaped part and a curvilinear shaped part. The pocket is positioned within the curvilinear shaped part and the strap is positioned within the rectangular shaped part.

[0132] FIG. 51 is a sectional view of a further embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20 having several wipes 22A, 22B. The wipe 22A is attached to a rear sheet 26 of the package 20, and the wipe 22B is attached to the wipe 22A. For example, the wipe 22A may be attached to the rear sheet 26 using one of the techniques described above. The wipe 22B may stick to the wipe 22A, for example, because of the adhesion between the two wipe materials. In another embodiment, the wipes 22A, 22B may be separated by a separation layer secured to the wipe 22A and supporting the wipe 22B. In one embodiment, a front sheet (not shown) may seal the wipes 22A, 22B between the rear sheet 26 and the front sheet. Although FIG. 51 shows only two wipes 22A, 22B, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the wipe package 20 may include more than two wipes.

[0133] The package 20 having multiple wipes 22A, 22B provides more than one surface to wipe with. For example, if a user wants to remove a substance from a surface, the user uses the first and outer wipe 22B first, and when the wipe 22B is use up, the user peels off the wipe 22B and uses the second and inner wipe 22A. Similarly, if the user wants to apply a substance to a surface, the user uses the wipes 22A, 22B successively. It is contemplated that the wipes 22A, 22B may be impregnated with the same or different formularies. For example, the wipe 22B may be impregnated with a cleaning substance to clean the surface prior to applying a treatment substance with the wipe 22A.

[0134] The multiple-wipe package 20 may be combined with any of the previously described embodiments. For example, the multiple-wipe package 20 may have one or more pockets, or one or more straps, or a combination of pockets and straps.

[0135] FIGS. 52A and 52B show an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20 having different sizes of wipe material. In FIG. 52A, the wipe 22 covers the rear sheet. The rear sheet is, therefore, not visible in FIG. 52A. The wipe 22 may be sized to match the size of the rear sheet, or may be larger than the rear sheet. In FIG. 52B, the wipe 22 is larger than the rear sheet 26 and the wipe may wrap around the rear sheet 26 to the back side of the package 20. In one embodiment, wipe package 20 may be configured so that when a flexible packaging tear seal is removed, the seal rips away a portion of the rear sheet 26 so that only the wipe 22 is exposed to the surface to be wiped.

[0136] The embodiments shown in FIGS. 52A and 52B avoid that any rough edge of the rear sheet (packaging material) contacts, for example, the skin. Avoiding such contact may be important for medical or cosmetic applications for the skin.

[0137] It is contemplated that the embodiments of FIGS. 52A and 52B are sealed in one of the above described manners and may be combined with any of the previously described embodiments. For example, the embodiments may have one or more pockets, or one or more straps, or a combination of pockets and straps.

[0138] FIG. 53 shows an embodiment of an impregnated wipe package 20 having a wipe material that unfolds to provide a greater surface area than the face dimensions of the package 20. The package 20 includes a rear sheet 26 and a wipe 22, which is configured to unfold so that the wipe 22 is larger than the rear sheet 26. In FIG. 53, the wipe 22 is unfolded and has a middle section 66 and side sections 68, 70. When the package 20 is closed, the side sections 68, 70 are folded onto the middle section 66. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the wipe 22 may have other folding properties. For example, the wipe 22 may have more or less than two side section that fold onto the middle section 66. Further, the wipe 22 may unfold in other directions.

[0139] It is contemplated that the folded package 20 are sealed in a manner described above and may be combined with any of the previously described embodiments. For example, the folded package 20 may have one or more pockets, or one or more straps, or a combination of pockets and straps.

[0140] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many formularies perform superior at higher temperatures. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed herein may be configured for using heat to activate the impregnated wipe 22. The impregnated wipe package 20 may, therefore, be configured to withstand increased temperatures to activate the formulary. For example, an impregnated wipe package 20 may include a wipe 22 and packaging material configured for heating in a microwave oven. Further, the impregnated wipe package 20 may include packaging material that insulates a heated impregnated wipe 22 from the user's skin.

[0141] In another embodiment, the impregnated wipe packaging 20 may have more than one chamber available to provide formulary to impregnate the wipe at the time of application. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain formularies require mixing immediately prior to application.

[0142] In a further embodiment, the impregnated wipe 22 may be configured to be re-closable or re-sealable for multiple uses of the impregnated wipe. Techniques for reclosable packaging are known by those skilled in the art.

[0143] Further, it is contemplated that certain embodiments may be configured for carrying information. For example, the rear or front sheet of the packaging materials may be peeled away or separated by perforation and used as a coupon or additional written materials such as a warranty or instructions.

[0144] For summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the invention are described herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0145] Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope of the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A wipe package comprising:

an impregnated wipe;

a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe, the sealed package having an exterior surface; and

at least one receptacle on said exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe.

2. The package of claim 1, wherein the receptacle includes a pocket configured to receive at least a part of the user's hand.

3. The package of claim 2, wherein the package includes two receptacles, each receptacle including a pocket configured to receive at least a part of the user's hand.

4. The package of claim 3, wherein the receptacles are positioned on a surface of the package that is opposite the wipe when in use, and wherein the receptacles are spaced apart on said surface so that each receptacle receives at least a part of the user's hand.

5. The package of claim 4, wherein the receptacles are positioned substantially parallel to each other of said surface when the package is in use.

6. The package of claim 4, wherein the receptacles are positioned in opposite corners of said surface when the package is in use.

7. The package of claim 1, wherein the receptacle includes a strap configured to receive at least a part of the user's hand.

8. The package of claim 7, wherein the strap includes a strip of material secured to said exterior surface.

9. The package of claim 7, wherein the strap is formed by die cutting at least said exterior surface.

10. The package of claim 1, wherein the package includes two receptacles, a first receptacle including a pocket configured to receive at least a part of the user's hand, and a second receptacle including a strap configured to receive at least a part of the user's hand.

11. The package of claim 10, wherein the receptacles are positioned substantially parallel to each other on said surface when the package is in use.

12. The package of claim 1, wherein the package includes two receptacles, each receptacle including a strap configured to receive at least a part of the user's hand.

13. The package of claim 12, wherein the receptacles are positioned substantially parallel to each other on said surface when the package is in use.

14. The package of claim 12, wherein the receptacles are positioned at an angle with respect to each other on said surface when the package is in use.

15. The package of claim 1, wherein the receptacle includes an adhesive layer configured to adhere to at least a part of the user's hand.

16. The package of claim 1, wherein the receptacle includes an opening configured to receive at least a part of the user's hand.

17. The package of claim 1, wherein the impregnated wipe, in use, has a substantially rectangular shape.

18. The package of claim 1, wherein the impregnated wipe has a substantially rectangular shaped part and a curvilinear shaped part.

19. The package of claim 18, wherein the package includes two receptacles, a first receptacle including a pocket configured to receive at least a part of the user's hand and positioned within the curvilinear shaped part, and a second receptacle including a strap configured to receive at least a part of the user's hand and positioned within the rectangular shaped part.

20. The package of claim 1, wherein the sealed package includes a front sheet, a first rear sheet having an interior surface and an exterior surface, an a second rear sheet, wherein the impregnated wipe is secured to an interior surface of said first rear sheet, wherein at least the front sheet and the first rear sheet seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the receptacle is formed between the exterior surface of the first rear sheet and the second rear sheet.

21. The package of claim 20, wherein the receptacle includes a pocket formed between the first and second rear sheets.

22. The package of claim 21, wherein the pocket is formed by separating at least the first and rear sheets.

23. The package of claim 20, wherein the first rear sheet forms a non-permeable membrane between the impregnated wipe and the user's hand.

24. The package of claim 20, further comprising a non-permeable layer between the impregnated wipe and the first rear sheet.

25. The package of claim 24, wherein the non-permeable layer is formed by treating a rear surface of the impregnated wipe with a compound so as to make the rear surface non-permeable to formulary used to impregnate the wipe.

26. The package of claim 1, wherein the sealed package includes a front sheet, a rear sheet, and a non-permeable layer on a rear surface of the impregnated wipe, wherein at least the front sheet and the non-permeable layer seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the receptacle is formed between the rear sheet and the non-permeable layer of the impregnated wipe.

27. The package of claim 26, wherein the receptacle includes a pocket.

28. The package of claim 1, wherein the sealed package includes a front sheet and a rear sheet, which seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the rear sheet includes the receptacle.

29. The package of claim 28, wherein the receptacle is a strap.

30. The package of claim 29, wherein the strap is a strip of material secured to the rear sheet.

31. The package of claim 29, wherein the strap is formed by die cutting at least a part of the rear sheet.

32. The package of claim 28, wherein the rear sheet is non-permeable to formulary used to impregnate the wipe.

33. The package of claim 28, further comprising an adhesive layer on an exterior surface of the rear sheet, the adhesive layer configured to adhere to at least a part of the user's hand.

34. The package of claim 33, wherein the rear sheet is non-permeable to formulary used to impregnate the wipe.

35. The package of claim 1, wherein the package includes a front sheet, a non-permeable layer and an adhesive layer configured to adhere to at least a part of the user's hand, wherein at least the non-permeable layer and the front sheet seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the non-permeable layer exists between the adhesive layer and the impregnated wipe.

36. The package of claim 1, wherein the package includes a support sheet to which the impregnated wipe is secured, wherein the impregnated wipe is sealed by the support sheet in a folded condition, wherein the support sheet includes a strap as receptacle.

37. The package of claim 36, wherein the support sheet is non-permeable to formulary used to impregnate the wipe.

38. The package of claim 1, wherein the wipe is folded within the sealed package, and wherein the wipe is configured to be unfolded by the user to increase a usable wipe surface.

39. The package of claim 1, wherein the wipe is sized to substantially cover packaging material to avoid that the packaging material comes into contact with the user's skin.

40. A wipe package comprising:

an impregnated wipe;

a non-permeable layer on a rear surface of the impregnated wipe, wherein at least the non-permeable layer seals the impregnated wipe in a folded and closed condition.

41. The package of claim 40, further comprising a sealed section to open the package for using the wipe.

42. The package of claim 41, wherein the sealed section is re-sealable.

43. A wipe package comprising:

an impregnated wipe;

a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe, the sealed package having an exterior surface, and

at least one receptacle on said exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe, wherein the sealed package includes a front sheet, a first rear sheet having an interior surface and an exterior surface, and a second rear sheet, wherein the impregnated wipe is secured to an interior surface of said first rear sheet, wherein at least the front sheet and the first rear sheet seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the receptacle is formed between the exterior surface of the first rear sheet and the second rear sheet.

44. The package of claim 43, wherein the receptacle includes a pocket formed between the first and second rear sheets.

45. The package of claim 44, wherein the pocket is formed by separating at least the first and rear sheets.

46. The package of claim 43, wherein the first rear sheet forms a non-permeable membrane between the impregnated wipe and the user's hand.

47. The package of claim 43, further comprising a non-permeable layer between the impregnated wipe and the first rear sheet.

48. The package of claim 47, wherein the non-permeable layer is formed by treating a rear surface of the impregnated wipe with a compound so as to make the rear surface non-permeable to formulary used to impregnate the wipe.

49. A wipe package comprising:

an impregnated wipe;

a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe, the sealed package having an exterior surface, and

at least one receptacle on said exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe, wherein the sealed package includes a front sheet, a rear sheet, and a non-permeable layer on a rear surface of the impregnated wipe, wherein at least the front sheet and the non-permeable layer seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the receptacle is formed between the rear sheet and the non-permeable layer of the impregnated wipe.

50. The package of claim 49, wherein the receptacle includes a pocket.

51. A wipe package comprising:

an impregnated wipe;

a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe, the sealed package having an exterior surface, and

at least one receptacle on said exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe, wherein the sealed package includes a front sheet and a rear sheet, which seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the rear sheet includes the receptacle.

52. The package of claim 51, wherein the receptacle is a strap.

53. The package of claim 52, wherein the strap is a strip of material secured to the rear sheet.

54. The package of claim 52, wherein the strap is formed by die cutting at least a part of the rear sheet.

55. The package of claim 51, wherein the rear sheet is non-permeable to formulary used to impregnate the wipe.

56. A wipe package comprising:

an impregnated wipe;

a sealed package containing the impregnated wipe, the sealed package having an exterior surface;

at least one receptacle on said exterior surface to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe, wherein the sealed package includes a front sheet and a rear sheet, which seal the impregnated wipe, and wherein the rear sheet includes the receptacle; and

an adhesive layer on an exterior surface of the rear sheet, the adhesive layer configured to adhere to at least a part of the user's hand.

57. The package of claim 56, wherein the rear sheet is non-permeable to formulary used to impregnate the wipe.

58. A method of manufacturing a wipe package, comprising:

providing a packaging material having an interior surface and an exterior surface;

forming a receptacle on the exterior surface of the packaging material; and

sealing an impregnated wipe with the packaging material so that the interior surface faces the impregnated wipe, wherein the receptacle is configured to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the impregnated wipe.

59. The method of claim 58, wherein the receptacle includes at least one of a pocket and a strap.

60. A wipe package comprising:

a rear sheet of packaging material;

a first impregnated wipe attached to the rear sheet; and

a second impregnated wipe attached to the first impregnated wipes, wherein the second impregnated wipe is removable from the first impregnated wipe to expose the first impregnated wipe for use.

61. The wipe package of claim 60, wherein the first and second wipes are impregnated with the same formulary.

62. The wipe package of claim 60, wherein the first and second wipes are impregnated with different formularies.

63. The wipe package of claim 60, further comprising at least one receptacle on an exterior surface of the rear sheet to secure the package to a user's hand or finger when using the wipes.

64. The wipe package of claim 60, wherein the rear sheet is non-permeable to substances used to impregnate the wipes.