Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming specially-configured handles in a plurality of interconnected plastic bags traveling in a longitudinal direction. The plastic bags are interconnected along transverse lines of weakness spaced at bag-length distances apart. The apparatus and method comprise using a rotary anvil and a rotary cutting die. The rotary anvil has a first axis of rotation. The rotary cutting die is disposed adjacent to the rotary anvil and has a second axis of rotation substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation. The rotary cutting die includes a rotatable cylindrical shaft, a blade shell mounted on the shaft, and a generally W-shaped blade formed on the blade shell. The blade has a base portion and a pair of substantially linear opposing legs, and the base portion has an inverted, V-shaped configuration. The opposing legs extend upwardly relative to the base portion and outwardly relative to each other.

Abstract: A grocery bag or the like having a closure member which securely closes the mouth of the bag so as to prevent items contained therein from falling out when the bag is tipped over. Closure is accomplished by a thin flexible strap attached to the front wall of the bag just below the bag mouth defining an opening between the strap and bag wall. The user may close the bag by inserting the hand through the opening defined by the strap and the bag front wall, grasping the bag handles and pulling the handles through the opening.

Abstract: An apparatus and process to permit high speed continuous motion heat sealing in the transverse direction of a moving, multiple layer web of polyethylene film. The apparatus includes a circular drum with a heated seal bar mounted flush with its cylindrical surface. The web of film wraps around the cylindrical surface of the drum and moves at the same speed. The web is pressed against the cylindrical surface by a least one rubber nip roll and is heat sealed in the area of the seal bar. The invention is particularly adapted for presealing the ends of the drawtape in the manufacture of drawtape bags.