SEALABLE BAG ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRATED VENTING

A sealable bag assembly for food delivery including a first and second panel joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of side panels. The first and second panel each including a lip portion extending upwardly from adjacent upper edges of the side panels therebetween that terminate at respective upper edges thereof that are in the range of at least about ¼″ to about 1″ above the side panel upper edges. A single use closure adhesive strip is disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an interior surface the lip portion of the second panel. A top edge of the adhesive strip extends vertically proximate to the upper edge of the second panel lip portion, and extends downwardly at least about ¼″ to about 1″. Upon the lip portions being oriented in a closed condition, the adhesive strip on the second panel lip portion contacts an interior surface of the first panel lip portion, sealing the respective lip portions together as a unit.

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Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to paper bags, and more particularly, relates to single use, food service, sealable paper bags with integrated venting.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional lunch bag-shaped paper bags that have been in use in the food industry since at least the commencement of take-out fast food services. These upper open ended paper bags are easy to open, fill and close, providing simple access to its contents.

While the use of these conventional paper bags continues to proliferate in the food service industry, especially with the recent growth of third party food delivery services, the potential for food tampering also increases. Both the food preparer/provider and the consumer would like assurance the food prepared has not in any manner been touched or tampered prior to the delivery.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a single use, conventional paper bag that is capable of being sealed in a manner that enables the end consumer assurance that the paper bag has not been opened, and that the prepared food therein has not been tampered with.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a single use, sealable bag assembly for food delivery use is provided including a sheet-like first panel and a sheet-like second panel joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels. The first panel and the second panel each include a respective lip portion extending upwardly from adjacent respective upper edges of the opposed side panels therebetween. The respective lip portions terminate at respective upper edges of the respective lip portion in the range of at least about ¼″ to about 1″ above the side panel upper edges. The bag assembly further includes an upper portion which includes the lip portion upper edges and the side panel upper edges that collectively define a generally rectangular-shaped opening into a bag interior of the bag assembly when the bag opening is oriented in an opened condition. The respective upper lip portions, in opposed, adjacent, congruent relationship to one another, when in a closed condition. A single use closure adhesive strip is disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an interior surface the lip portion of the second panel. A top edge of the adhesive strip extends vertically proximate to the upper edge of the second panel lip portion, and extends downwardly from the top edge at least about ¼″ to about 1″. Upon the bag opening being oriented in the closed condition, the adhesive strip on the second panel lip portion contacts an interior surface of the first panel lip portion, sealing the respective lip portion together as a unit.

Accordingly, a bag assembly is provided that can be easily sealed to prevent tampering, yet provides venting of the contents. This bag assembly is particularly useful in the food delivery service industry.

In one specific embodiment, the bottom edge of the adhesive strip is in the range of about ¼″ to about ¾″ from the top edge thereof.

Another configuration provides the closure adhesive strip is continuous from one end portion to an opposite end portion thereof. In another, the closure adhesive strip is provided by a plurality of independent strips oriented generally end to end from one end portion of the adhesive strip to an opposite end portion thereof.

In yet another embodiment, the vent apertures are included in both the first panel and the second panel. Another embodiment, the vent apertures are provided by a first pair of spaced apart apertures in the first panel and a second pair of spaced apart apertures in the second panel.

Still another embodiment provides a first handle member coupled to the first panel, and a second handle member coupled to the second panel.

In one specific configuration, at least one of the first panel and the second panel includes a perforation oriented below the closure adhesive strip. The perforation extends generally from one side of the at least one side panel to an opposite side thereof.

In another aspect of the present invention, a single use, sealable paper bag assembly for food delivery use that exhibits visible signs of tampering in the event someone unauthorized access the delivery bag's contents. In one embodiment, the bag assembly includes a sheet-like first panel and a sheet-like second panel joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels. Each of the first panel, the second panel and the opposed side panels having respective upper portions having respective upper edges collectively defining a generally rectangular-shaped, flap-free, bag opening into a bag interior of the bag assembly when oriented in an opened condition, spacing the first panel and the second panel are spaced-apart in the opened condition. The respective upper edges of the first panel and second panel are oriented in opposed congruent relationship to one another, when in a closed condition. The bag assembly further includes vent apertures extending through at least one of the first panel and the second panel into the bag interior. In accordance with the present invention, a single use closure adhesive strip is disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an exterior surface of the first panel, a top edge of the adhesive strip extending vertically proximate to a respective upper edge of the first panel, and extending downwardly from the top edge at least about ⅛″ to about 1″.

When the bag opening is oriented in the closed condition, a respective upper portion of the second panel, as a unit with a respective upper portion of the first panel, can be creased and folded over a first time onto itself at a first interior crease on the second panel and a first exterior crease on the first panel. The first exterior crease is oriented below a bottom edge the adhesive strip. Furthermore, the respective upper portion of the first panel, as a unit with the respective upper portion of the second panel, can subsequently be creased and folded over a second time onto the second panel at a second interior crease at the second panel and a second exterior crease at the first panel. The second interior crease is oriented below the top edge of the adhesive strip such that the adhesive strip contacts an exterior surface of the second panel, sealing the respective upper portions of the bag assembly thereagainst.

In one specific embodiment, the bottom edge of the adhesive strip is in the range of about ¼″ to about ¾″ from the top edge thereof.

In another configuration, the bag assembly further includes a first handle member coupled to the first panel, and a second handle member coupled to the second panel.

In one specific configuration, at least one of the first panel and the second panel includes a perforation oriented below the closure adhesive strip. The perforation extends generally from one side of the at least one side panel to an opposite side thereof.

In another aspect of the present invention, a tamper proof method is provided for transporting one or more food containers including providing a sealable paper bag assembly having a sheet-like first panel and a sheet-like second panel joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels. Each of the first panel, the second panel and the opposed side panels having respective upper portions having respective upper edges collectively defining a generally rectangular-shaped, flap-free, bag opening into a bag interior of the bag assembly when oriented in the opened condition. In a closed condition, the respective upper edges of the first panel and second panel in opposed congruent relationship to one another. The assembly further includes a single use closure adhesive strip disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an exterior surface of the first panel. A top edge of the adhesive strip extends vertically proximate to a respective upper edge of the first panel, and extends downwardly from the top edge. The method includes reorienting the respective upper portions of the bag assembly from the closed condition to the opened condition, repositioning the bag assembly from a folded condition to an unfolded condition, and the bag interior to a receiving condition. The method next includes placing the one or more food containers into the bag interior in the receiving condition. To seal the bag opening, the method includes creating a first interior crease on the second panel and a first exterior crease on the first panel by folding a respective upper portion of the second panel, as a unit with a respective upper portion of the first panel, onto itself. The first exterior crease is oriented below a bottom edge the adhesive strip. Finally, the method includes creating a second interior crease at the second panel and a second exterior crease at the first panel by folding the respective upper portion of the first panel, as a unit with the respective upper portion of the second panel, onto the second panel. The second interior crease oriented below the top edge of the adhesive strip such that the exposed adhesive strip contacts an exterior surface of the second panel, sealing the respective upper portion of the bag assembly thereagainst.

In one configuration, the tamper proof method further includes prior to sealing the upper portion, peeling a protective cover from the closure adhesive strip.

Moreover, the method includes providing vent apertures extending through at least one of the first panel and the second panel into the bag interior.

In still another embodiment, the tamper proof method further includes, prior to creating a first interior crease, orienting the bag opening in the closed condition;

Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a tamper proof method for transporting one or more food containers including providing a sealable paper bag assembly having a sheet-like first panel and a sheet-like second panel joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels. The first panel and the second panel each includes a respective lip portion extending upwardly from adjacent respective upper edges of the opposed side panels therebetween and terminating at respective upper edges of the respective lip portion in the range of at least about ¼″ to about 1″ above the side panel upper edges. The bag assembly further includes a single use closure adhesive strip disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an interior surface the lip portion of the second panel. A top edge of the adhesive strip extending vertically proximate to the upper edge of the second panel lip portion, and extending downwardly from the top edge. The tamper proof method includes repositioning the bag assembly from the closed condition to the opened condition, reorienting the bag opening, the bag interior and first and second side panels to a receiving condition. The method further includes placing the one or more food containers into the bag interior in the receiving condition, and orienting the bag opening in the closed condition. Subsequently, the method includes sealing the bag assembly by contacting the adhesive strip on the second panel lip portion against an interior surface of the first panel lip portion, sealing the respective lip portion together as a unit.

In one specific embodiment, the method includes prior to sealing the bag assembly, peeling a protective cover from the closure adhesive strip.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The assembly of the present invention has other objects and features of advantage which will be more readily apparent from the following description of the best mode of carrying out the invention and the appended claims, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a sealable paper bag assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 1, with the paper bag assembly in a sealed condition.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 1, illustrating removal of a protective cover from an adhesive strip

FIG. 4 is a side elevation of the sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a folded state.

FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of the bag assembly of FIG. 1 shown with a handle member.

FIG. 6 is a side elevation view thereof.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment sealable paper bag assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of the alternative embodiment sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 7, with the paper bag assembly in a sealed condition.

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the alternative embodiment sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 7, illustrating a first step to seal the bag.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the alternative embodiment sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 7, illustrating a second step to seal the bag with a first fold.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged, fragmentary, rear perspective view of the alternative embodiment sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged, fragmentary, rear perspective view of the alternative embodiment sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 11, illustrating a third step to seal the bag with the removal of a protective cover of an adhesive strip.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged, fragmentary, front perspective view of the alternative embodiment sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 10, illustrating a fourth step to seal the bag with a second fold.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged, fragmentary, rear perspective view thereof.

FIGS. 15A-15E is a sequence of side elevation views of the alternative embodiment of the sealable paper bag assembly of FIG. 10, illustrating the procedure to seal the bag assembly.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the present invention will be described with reference to a few specific embodiments, the description is illustrative of the invention and is not to be construed as limiting the invention. Various modifications to the present invention can be made to the preferred embodiments by those skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It will be noted here that for a better understanding, like components are designated by like reference numerals throughout the various figures.

Turning now to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-6, a one-time sealable bag assembly 20 is provided that is designated for the food service industry. Such a one-time seal is paramount to providing a tamperproof bag that will exhibit visible signs of tampering and destruction should someone attempt to access its contents.

In accordance with the present invention, a single use, sealable bag assembly, generally designated 20, is provided for food delivery use. The bag assembly 20 includes a sheet-like first panel 21 and an opposed sheet-like second panel 22 joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels 23, 25. The first panel 21 and the second panel 22 each includes a respective lip portion 26, 27 that extends upwardly from adjacent respective upper edges 28, 30 of the opposed side panels 23, 25 therebetween and terminate at respective upper edges 32, 33 of the respective lip portion 26, 27 in the range of at least about ¼″ to about 1″ above the side panel upper edges 28, 30. The bag assembly further includes a collective upper portion 31 which includes the lip portion upper edges 32, 33 and the side panel upper edges 28, 30 that collectively define a generally rectangular-shaped bag opening 35 (FIGS. 1 and 3) into a bag interior of the bag assembly 20 when the bag opening 35 is oriented in an opened condition (FIGS. 1, 3 and 6). The respective lip portions 26, 27 are in opposed, adjacent, congruent relationship to one another, when the bag opening is in a closed condition (FIG. 2), such as when the entire bag assembly is in a collapsed or folded state (FIG. 4) or the upper portion 31 of the bag assembly is closed over the contained contents in the bag interior.

The present invention includes a single-use closure adhesive strip 36 disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an interior surface 37 of the lip portion 27 of the second panel 22. A top edge 38 of the adhesive strip extends vertically proximate to the upper edge of the second panel lip portion 27, and extends downwardly at least about ¼″ to about 1″. Upon the lip portions 26, 27 being oriented toward the closed condition (FIG. 2), the adhesive strip on the second panel lip portion 27 contacts an interior surface 37 of the first panel lip portion 26, sealing the respective lip portions 26, 27 together as a unit, in a sealed condition.

Accordingly, a bag assembly is provided having an adhesive strip that can be easily employed to seal the bag opening in a closed state to prevent tampering. This assembly is particularly useful in the food delivery service industry in order to prevent the delivery personal from tampering with the bag contents. Thus, any tampering will result in physical signs of entry (e.g., tearing or ripping of the bag and/or closure adhesive strip).

Moreover, in accordance with the present invention, the opposing and upstanding lip portions 26, 27 provide the primary means that enable simple and easy access to the adhesive strip, which normally includes a protective cover 39 (FIG. 3) that requires removal prior to use of the adhesive strip. Hence, the aligned lip portions 26, 27 not only provide superior access to the protective cover 39 but also enable simplified closure of the lip portions to the folded condition.

Referring back to FIGS. 1 and 4, the primary layout of the bag assembly is similar to a conventional paper bag designs currently supplied for food delivery. Hence, the bag assembly 20 is generally a rectangular prism-shaped, having the first and second sheet-like panels 21, 22 that are joined at the sides by the opposed side panels 23, 25. The side panels 23, 25 include vertical creases 40 that together with a joined bottom portion 41, can be moved between a folded state (FIG. 4), with the bag opening 35 in the closed condition, and an unfolded state (FIGS. 1, 3 and 6), with the bag opening in the opened condition (FIGS. 1, 3 and 6), ready for the bag interior to be filled with food content.

The material of the bag assembly is preferably comprised of conventional paper bag materials having a typical sheet weights in the range of between about 30 gsm to about 160 gsm. However, the bag assembly can be comprised of a common plastic bag material, such as polyethylene, in typical sheet thickness in the ranges of between about 0.00035 inch to about 0.035 inch. Moreover, any other conventional bag material can be employed as well.

In operation of the bag assembly 20, the lip portions 26, 27 can be manually manipulated to reorient the bag opening 35 from closed condition (FIG. 4) to the opened condition (FIGS. 1, 3 and 6), repositioning the bag interior, and bag assembly 20, from the folded state (FIG. 4) to the unfolded state (FIGS. 1, 3 and 6). Once the bag interior is opened up to a receiving condition (FIGS. 1, 3 and 6), one or more food items and/or containers can be placed therein.

Subsequently, the upper portion 31 of the bag assembly can be oriented toward the closed condition, folding the creased side panels 23, 25 together which align the lip portions 26, 27 with one another. Preferably, the adhesive strip 36 includes a protective cover 39 (FIG. 3) which can be removed either prior to manipulation of the upper portion of the bag assembly toward the closed condition or once the lip portions 26, 27 are nearly fully closed. In accordance with the present invention, the bag assembly 20 can then be sealed by contacting the exposed adhesive strip 36 on the second panel lip portion 27 against the interior surface 37 of the first panel lip portion 26, sealing the respective lip portion together as a unit (FIG. 2).

The respective lip portions 26, 27 are thus, adhered together, via the closure adhesive strip 36, temporarily closing the bag opening while retaining the container contents in the bag interior. The closure adhesive strip will maintain the closure of the bag assembly until forcibly opened and torn. Accordingly, a tamper proof seal is created, assuring all parties, including the food preparer/provider (the food delivery personnel) and the customer, that the content contained in the bag assembly 20 has not been tampered with.

The character and properties of the closure adhesive strip 36 is preferably similar to that of the relatively strong adhesives and adhesive tapes employed for those used on overnight delivery packages, for instance. That is, the adhesive strength must be sufficiently strong so that any attempt to open the sealed bag assembly would show visible signs of tampering (e.g., stretching, tearing, etc. of the bag material and/or closure adhesive strip). Suitable closure adhesive strip materials include, for example, 3M® 9086, 9888T, CT6348, 9088, 9088FL, and 55256 double-sided adhesive. One adhesive side of the closure adhesive strip 36, as mentioned, includes a manually removable protective cover 39 (FIG. 3) that protects the adhesive until utilized, as well as preventing inadvertent sealing of the lip portions 26, 27 together.

It will be appreciated that while the vertical width of the adhesive strip 36 is listed in the range of ¼″ to about 1″, the range is more preferably in the range of about ¼″ to about ¾″ in vertical width. The closure adhesive strip is also preferably provided by a single continuous strip generally spanning the horizontal distance from one side edge end of the lip portion 27 to the opposed upper side edge end thereof. It will be appreciated, however, that the closure adhesive strip 36 could be provided by a plurality of independent adhesive strip members (not shown) aligned end-to-end. Moreover, the opposed lip portion 26 could also include an opposed adhesive strip as well.

Once the lip portions 26, 27 have been seal together, to assure sufficient steam venting of the bag interior when hot food items are stored therein, at least one the first and second sheet-like panels 21, 22 includes at least one respective vent aperture 42 extending into the bag interior. Preferably there are at least two such apertures 42 on each sheet-like panel 21, 22 to assure sufficient venting. These vent apertures 42 are oriented a vertical distance sufficiently below the bag opening 35 when the upper portion of the bag assembly 20 is in the folded state. This will of course assure that the vent apertures will not be blocked when the upper portion is sealed, and folded over in the manner commonly carried. These vent apertures are preferably in the range of about ⅛″ in diameter to about ½″ in diameter, and more preferably about ¼″ in diameter.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the bag assembly may include respective perforations 43, 45 (FIGS. 1, 2, 5 and 6) extending across at least the first sheet-like panel 21 and/or the second sheet panel 22 to facilitate opening of the upper portion of the bag assembly after sealing to retrieve its contents, once sealed. Preferably each side panel 23, 25 also includes a respective perforation 43, 45 extending substantially laterally across each side panel 23, 25, and preferably each perforation 43, 45 is aligned and congruent to one another to promote tearing open the perforations in a manner similar to opening a bag of potato chips, for example (FIG. 2). It will be understood, however, that a single perforation is acceptable

More preferably, the side panels 23, 25 also include respective perforations 43, 45 that are laterally aligned with the respective perforations 43, 45 in the sheet-like panels 21, 22. Accordingly, when the lip portions 26, 27 are in the sealed condition, and the upper portion is in the folded state, the entire upper portion can be easily opened and torn together as a single unit.

The placement of these opposing perforations 43, 45 and 46, 47 must be oriented below the closure adhesive strip 36 of course. As best shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 5, in one embodiment, the perforations 43, 45 extend from one side edge of the corresponding side panel 23, 25 to the opposed side edge thereof. While the perforations 43, 45 are substantially linear and oriented substantially horizontal, it will be appreciated that the perforations can be non-linear, and can even be oriented vertically along the side panels 23, 25 (e.g., down at least one of the upper edges 28, 30, although not shown). Moreover, the perforations 43, 45 and 46, 47 can be created using conventional mechanical and/or laser cutting techniques, and can consist of a plurality of uniform dotted cuts, a plurality of longer linear cuts or a combination thereof.

A set of tabs or cutouts (not shown) may be included that are aligned with the terminating ends of the perforations 43, 45. These cutouts facilitate commencement of the perforation tear at the ends thereof.

FIGS. 5 and 6 best illustrate yet another embodiment of the present invention having conventional handles 48, 50 that are mounted to, or cooperated with, the first and second panels 21, 22 to facilitate carrying of the bag assembly 20. In one particular embodiment, the generally U-shaped handles 48, 50 are adhered or mounted to the outside surface of the sheet-like first and second panels 21, 22 as opposed to conventionally mounting them to the interior surface of the panels. This is due to the fact that if the handles were mounted to the interior surface of the first and second panels 21, 22, the handles would interfere with the sealed closure thereof.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-14, another single use, sealable bag assembly 20 embodiment of the present invention is provided for food delivery use having a sheet-like first panel 21 and an opposed sheet-like second panel 22 joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels 23, 25. Each of the first panel 21, the second panel 22 and the opposed side panels 23, 25 includes respective upper portions 31 having respective upper edges 51, 52, 28 and 30 that collectively define a generally rectangular-shaped, flap-free, bag opening 35 into a bag interior of the bag assembly 20 when the upper portions are oriented in an opened condition (FIG. 7). This opened condition orientation spaces the upper edges 51, 52 of the respective first panel 21 and the second panel 22 apart. When the respective upper portions of the first panel 21 and the second panel 22 are oriented in a closed condition (FIGS. 9 and 15A), the respective upper edges 51, 52 of the first panel and second panel are oriented in opposed congruent relationship to one another. The bag assembly 20 further includes vent apertures extending through at least one of the first panel 21 and the second panel 22 into the bag interior thereof.

In accordance with the present invention, the bag assembly further includes a single use closure adhesive strip 36 disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an exterior surface of the first panel 21. A top edge 38 of the adhesive strip 36 extends vertically proximate to a respective upper edge 52 of the second panel 22, and extends downwardly from the top edge 38 at least about ⅛″ to about 1″. When the respective upper portions of the bag assembly 20 are oriented in the closed condition (FIGS. 9 and 15A), closing the bag opening 35, the respective upper portions of the first pane 21 and second panel 22, as a unit, can be creased and folded over a first time onto itself at a first interior crease 55 on the second panel 22 and a first exterior crease 56 on the first panel 21 (FIGS. 10-12 and 15B). The first exterior crease 56 is oriented below a bottom edge 57 the adhesive strip 36 (albeit shown above the bottom edge 57 in FIGS. 11 and 12 when creased).

Subsequently, the respective upper portion of the first panel 21, as a unit with the respective upper portion of the second panel 22, can be creased and folded over a second time (FIGS. 13 and 15D) onto the second panel 22 at a second interior crease 58 at the second panel 22, and a second exterior crease 60 at the first panel 21. The second interior crease 58 is oriented below the top edge 38 of the adhesive strip 36 (albeit not, when creased) such that the adhesive strip contacts an exterior surface of the second panel 22, sealing the respective upper portion of the bag assembly thereagainst.

Accordingly, in this configuration of the present invention, the adhesive strip, being located and oriented on the exterior surface of the second panel 22, proximate to the flap-free bag opening, the seal is created by folding the upper portion onto itself, in a direction away from (or on the other side of) the adhesive strip 36, to seal the bag. Hence, no additional flap is needed to fold over the bag opening (i.e., flap-free).

Similar to the previous embodiment, it will be appreciated that the vertical width of the adhesive strip 36 is listed in the range of ¼″ to about 1″, and more preferably in the range of about ¼″ to about ¾″ in vertical width. Again, the closure adhesive strip is also preferably continuous from one end portion to an opposite end portion thereof. However, the closure adhesive strip 36 could also be provided by a plurality of independent strips oriented generally end to end from one end portion of the adhesive strip to an opposite end portion thereof (not shown).

The vertical width of the adhesive strip more or less somewhat determines the placement and orientation of the first interior crease 55 on the second panel 22 and the first exterior crease 56 on the first panel 21 (FIGS. 9, 11 and 12). That is, with a thinner width adhesive strip 36, the first creases could be shifted upward, closer to the upper edges.

Again, similar to the previous embodiment, the present bag assembly configuration includes substantially the same alternative embodiments. These include, for example, the size and positioning of the vent apertures 42, the handle members, the perforations, the composition of the panels 21, 22, 23 and 25.

To manually operate this embodiment (FIGS. 7-14) of the bag assembly 20, the bag assembly must first be unfolded from the folded state (similar to FIG. 4) to the unfolded state (FIG. 7). This is initially performed by manually manipulating upper edges 51, 52 of the corresponding first and second panels 21, 22 toward the opened condition (FIG. 7). Once the bag interior is opened up to a receiving condition (FIG. 7), one or more food items and/or containers can be placed therein.

Subsequently, the bag assembly upper portion 31 (i.e., which includes upper edges 51, 52) can be reoriented toward the closed condition, folding the creased side panels 23, 25 together which aligns the upper edges 51, 52 congruent to one another (FIG. 9)

To seal this embodiment of the bag assembly 20, referring primarily now to FIG. 15A-15E, the first interior crease 55 is created on the second panel 22, and the first exterior crease 56 is created on the first panel 21, by folding a respective upper portion of the second panel, as a unit with a respective upper portion of the first panel, onto itself, employing conventional hand folding techniques (FIG. 15B). Initially, this first exterior crease is to be created just below the bottom edge 57 of the adhesive strip 36. However, once the adhesive strip 36 is folded over, these first creases 55, 56 will then be oriented above the strip, and will be facing the same direction (i.e., on the same side) as the second panel 22.

At this point, as best shown in FIGS. 12 and 15C, the protective cover 39 can be peeled off. It will be understood, however, that this protective cover can be removed before the first creases are created, if desired, as well as after the second creases 58, 60 are created, as will be now described.

Turning now to FIGS. 13 and 15D, the next step is creating the second interior crease 58 at the second panel 22, and simultaneously, the second exterior crease 60 at the first panel 21 by again folding over this folded upper portion of the first panel 21 (a second time), as a unit with the folded upper portion of the second panel 22. This second interior crease 58 is again initially oriented just below the top edge 38 of the adhesive strip 36 or the upper edges. Similarly, however, once the adhesive strip 36 is folded over, these second creases 58, 60 will then be oriented above the strip, such that the now exposed adhesive of the adhesive strip contacts an exterior surface of the second panel 22, sealing the folded upper portions of the bag assembly 20 thereagainst. In this manner, the exposed adhesive of the adhesive strip is folded over, and onto the exterior surface of the second panel 22, adhering the double folded upper portions in place (FIGS. 8, 14 and 15E).

While the present invention has been described in connection with the preferred form of practicing it and modifications thereto, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that many other modifications can be made thereto within the scope of the claims that follow. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of the invention in any way be limited by the above description, but instead be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A single use, sealable bag assembly for food delivery use comprising:

a sheet-like first panel and a sheet-like second panel joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels, said first panel and said second panel each including a respective lip portion extending upwardly from adjacent respective upper edges of the opposed side panels therebetween and terminate at respective upper edges of the respective lip portion in the range of at least about ¼″ to about 1″ above the side panel upper edges, said bag assembly further includes an upper portion which includes the lip portion upper edges and the side panel upper edges that collectively define a generally rectangular-shaped bag opening into a bag interior of said bag assembly when said upper portion is oriented in an opened condition, and said respective upper lip portions, in opposed, adjacent, congruent relationship to one another, when said upper portion is oriented in a closed condition;
vent apertures extending through at least one of said first panel and said second panel into said bag interior; and
a single use closure adhesive strip disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an interior surface the lip portion of said second panel, a top edge of said adhesive strip extending vertically proximate to the upper edge of the second panel lip portion, and extending downwardly from said top edge at least about ¼″ to about 1″;
wherein, upon said lip portions being oriented in the closed condition, said adhesive strip on the second panel lip portion contacts an interior surface of the first panel lip portion, sealing the respective lip portions together as a unit.

2. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 1, wherein

the bottom edge of said adhesive strip is in the range of about ¼″ to about ¾″ from said top edge thereof.

3. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 2, wherein

said closure adhesive strip is continuous from one end portion to an opposite end portion thereof.

4. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 2, wherein

said closure adhesive strip is provided by a plurality of independent strips oriented generally end to end from one end portion of said adhesive strip to an opposite end portion thereof.

5. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 1, further including:

a first handle member coupled to said first panel, and a second handle member coupled to said second panel.

6. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 1, wherein

said vent apertures are included in both said first panel and said second panel.

7. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 6, wherein

said vent apertures are provided by a first pair of spaced apart apertures in said first panel and a second pair of spaced apart apertures in said second panel.

8. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 1, wherein

at least one of said first panel and said second panel includes a perforation oriented below said closure adhesive strip.

9. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 8, wherein

said perforation extends generally from one side of said at least one side panel to an opposite side thereof.

10. A single use, sealable bag assembly for food delivery use comprising:

a sheet-like first panel and a sheet-like second panel joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels, each said first panel, said second panel and the opposed side panels includes a respective upper portion having respective upper edges that collectively define a generally rectangular-shaped, flap-free, bag opening into a bag interior of said bag assembly when said upper portion is oriented in an opened condition, spacing the first panel and the second panel apart, and orienting the respective upper edges of said first panel and second panel in opposed congruent relationship to one another, when said upper portion is oriented in a closed condition;
vent apertures extending through at least one of said first panel and said second panel into said bag interior; and
a single use closure adhesive strip disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an exterior surface of said first panel, a top edge of said adhesive strip extending vertically proximate to a respective upper edge of said first panel, and extending downwardly from said top edge at least about ⅛″ to about 1″;
wherein, in the closed condition, the respective upper section of said second panel, as a unit with the respective upper portion of said first panel, can be creased and folded over a first time onto itself at a first interior crease on said second panel and a first exterior crease on said first panel, said first exterior crease being oriented below a bottom edge said adhesive strip,
and wherein, the respective upper portion of first panel, as a unit with the respective upper portion of said second panel, can subsequently be creased and folded over a second time onto said second panel at a second interior crease at said second panel and a second exterior crease at said first panel, said second interior crease oriented below said top edge of said adhesive strip such that said adhesive strip contacts an exterior surface of said second panel, sealing the upper portion of said bag assembly thereagainst.

11. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 10, wherein

the bottom edge of said adhesive strip is in the range of about ¼″ to about ¾″ from said top edge thereof.

12. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 11, wherein

said closure adhesive strip is continuous from one end portion to an opposite end portion thereof.

13. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 10, further including:

a first handle member coupled to said first panel, and a second handle member coupled to said second panel.

14. The sealable bag assembly according to claim 12, wherein

at least one of said first panel and said second panel includes a perforation oriented below said closure adhesive strip.

15. A tamper proof method for transporting one or more food containers comprising:

providing a sealable paper bag assembly having a sheet-like first panel and a sheet-like second panel joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels, each said first panel, said second panel and the opposed side panels having respective upper portions having respective upper edges collectively defining a generally rectangular-shaped, flap-free, bag opening into a bag interior of said bag assembly when said respective upper portions are oriented an opened condition, spacing the first panel and the second panel apart, and orienting the respective upper edges of said first panel and second panel in opposed congruent relationship to one another, when said respective upper portions are oriented in a closed condition, said bag assembly further including a single use closure adhesive strip disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an exterior surface of said first panel, a top edge of said adhesive strip extending vertically proximate to a respective upper edge of said first panel, and extending downwardly from said top edge;
reorienting the respective upper portions of said bag assembly from the closed condition to the opened condition, repositioning said bag assembly from a folded condition to an unfolded condition, and said bag interior to a receiving condition;
placing the one or more food containers into said bag interior in said receiving condition;
creating a first interior crease on said second panel and a first exterior crease on said first panel by folding the respective upper portion of said second panel, as a unit with the respective upper portion of said first panel, onto itself, said first exterior crease being oriented below a bottom edge said adhesive strip; and
creating a second interior crease at said second panel and a second exterior crease at said first panel by folding the respective upper portion of said first panel, as a unit with the respective upper portion of said second panel, onto said second panel, said second interior crease oriented below said top edge of said adhesive strip such that said adhesive strip contacts an exterior surface of said second panel, sealing the upper portion of said bag assembly thereagainst.

16. The tamper proof method according to claim 15, further including:

prior to sealing the upper portion, peeling a protective cover from said closure adhesive strip.

17. The tamper proof method according to claim 15, further including:

providing vent apertures extending through at least one of said first panel and said second panel into said bag interior.

18. The tamper proof method according to claim 15, further including:

prior to creating a first interior crease, orienting said bag opening in the closed condition.

19. A tamper proof method for transporting one or more food containers comprising:

providing a sealable paper bag assembly having a sheet-like first panel and a sheet-like second panel joined at respective sides by an opposed pair of sheet-like, vertically creased, side panels, said first panel and said second panel each including a respective lip portion extending upwardly from adjacent respective upper edges of the opposed side panels therebetween and terminate at respective upper edges of the respective lip portion in the range of at least about ¼″ to about 1″ above the side panel upper edges, said bag assembly further includes an upper portion which includes the lip portion upper edges and the side panel upper edges that collectively define a generally rectangular-shaped bag opening into a bag interior of said bag assembly when said upper portion is oriented in an opened condition, and said respective upper lip portions, in opposed, adjacent, congruent relationship to one another, when said upper portion is oriented in a closed condition, said bag assembly further including a single use closure adhesive strip disposed and oriented substantially laterally across an interior surface the lip portion of said second panel, a top edge of said adhesive strip extending vertically proximate to the upper edge of the second panel lip portion, and extending downwardly from said top edge;
reorienting said upper portion of said bag assembly from the closed condition to the opened condition, repositioning said bag assembly from a folded condition to an unfolded condition, and said bag interior to a receiving condition;
repositioning said bag assembly from said folded condition to said unfolded condition, reorienting said bag opening, said bag interior and first and second side panels to a receiving condition;
placing the one or more food containers into said bag interior in said receiving condition;
orienting said upper portion in the closed condition; and
sealing said bag assembly by contacting said adhesive strip on the second panel lip portion against an interior surface of the first panel lip portion, sealing the respective lip portion together as a unit.

20. The tamper proof method according to claim 19, further including:

prior to sealing said bag assembly, peeling a protective cover from said closure adhesive strip.
Patent History
Publication number: 20180334292
Type: Application
Filed: May 18, 2017
Publication Date: Nov 22, 2018
Inventor: Hin Siang Michael TAN (Danville, CA)
Application Number: 15/599,236
Classifications
International Classification: B65D 33/34 (20060101); B65B 7/08 (20060101); B65B 43/26 (20060101); B65D 33/01 (20060101); B65D 30/20 (20060101); B65D 33/18 (20060101); B65D 33/10 (20060101);