Abstract: An apparatus for forming a flexible package can include a forming box having a first, second, and third portions that cooperate to define first, second, third, and fourth walls of the forming box, and one or more forming box actuators operatively coupled to the forming box to actuate the forming box between a first position for receiving a package, a second position for retaining a package, and a third position for releasing the package. The apparatus can also include a first flap folding bar disposed upstream and adjacent a first end of the forming box, and one or more first flap folding bar actuators operatively coupled to the first flap folding bar to actuate the first flap folding bar in a direction substantially transverse to a transport path of a flexible material.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming a flexible package can include a forming box having a first, second, and third portions that cooperate to define first, second, third, and fourth walls of the forming box, and one or more forming box actuators operatively coupled to the forming box to actuate the forming box between a first position for receiving a package, a second position for retaining a package, and a third position for releasing the package. The apparatus can also include a first flap folding bar disposed upstream and adjacent a first end of the forming box, and one or more first flap folding bar actuators operatively coupled to the first flap folding bar to actuate the first flap folding bar in a direction substantially transverse to a transport path of a flexible material.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to a tamper evident lid formed of a thermoformed material for use with a container. The lid includes a round, substantially planar surface having a periphery defining a surface circumference. The lid further includes an engagement portion surrounding the periphery and extending there from. The engagement portion includes a friction fit portion extending generally upward from the planar surface; and a tear away portion removably connected to the friction fit portion and being generally parallel to the friction fit portion.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to a tamper evident lid formed of a thermoformed material for use with a container. The lid includes a round, substantially planar surface having a periphery defining a surface circumference. The lid further includes an engagement portion surrounding the periphery and extending there from. The engagement portion includes a friction fit portion extending generally upward from the planar surface; and a tear away portion removably connected to the friction fit portion and being generally parallel to the friction fit portion.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to a reinforced nestable container and a method of forming a reinforced nestable container able to withstand a high pressure processing. The container has an open end, a closed end, and a sidewall extending between the open end and the closed end and defines an interior. The closed end has a cone bottom including a first step that steps towards the closed end and forms a flexible point such that the base can flex and return to its original position and shape; a generally flat portion that extends towards the center of the closed end; a second step that steps towards the open end and in to an inner-profile having a first radius in one direction and a second radius in an opposite direction, forming an s-curve; at least one strengthening fillet; and a base plateau, whereby at least the s-curve formed by the first step, the flat portion and the second step spread tension such that the container can withstand pressure therein.

Abstract: A tamper evident container includes a storage element having a flange extending outwardly from a top edge, and a lid having top and outer walls configured to fit over the flange of the storage element with the outer wall extending below a bottom edge of the flange. The outer wall may include an inwardly extending locking indentation engaging the bottom edge of the flange of the storage element to retain the lid on the storage element and prevent it from being removed without permanently deforming at least one of the lid and the storage element, The lid further includes a line of reduced strength extending along a portion of the top wall and/or outer wall to detach a portion of the outer wall and disengage the locking indentation from the flange to allow the lid to be disengaged from the flange without further permanent deformation of the lid or the storage element.