REUSABLE TAMPER-EVIDENT BAG

Abstract

In variations of embodiments, a tamper-evident bag includes multiple side walls, a closed bottom, and an opening defined by a top edge of the multiple side walls; a handle feature is disposed on two side walls; a pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is disposed proximate to the top edge of a first side wall; and/or a perforation line of uniform height is disposed in the multiple side walls above the handle feature and below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip. In variations of embodiments, methods for using and manufacturing a reusable tamper-evident bag are also disclosed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of International PCT Application No. PCT/US2017/057060 filed 17 Oct. 2017, which is herein incorporated in its entirety by this reference.

This application is additionally a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/770,941 filed 25 Apr. 2018, which is herein incorporated in its entirety by this reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The disclosure generally relates to bags.

BACKGROUND

Drug stores, bakeries, restaurants, and other retailers may utilize in-house or 3rd-party services to deliver pharmaceuticals, foods, or other sensitive goods to consumers. One challenge such businesses face is how to maintain consumer confidence that the delivered product has not been tampered with during transport. Known delivery bags have many shortcomings. For instance, bags can lack tamper-evident features. New innovations are needed in this underserved market space.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 1B includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 1C includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 2A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 2B includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 2C includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 3A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 3B includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 3C includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of a third embodiment;

FIG. 4A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 4B includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 4C includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 5 includes a flow diagram of using a tamper-evident bag, according to a variation of an embodiment of a method;

FIG. 6 includes a flow diagram of manufacturing a tamper-evident bag, according to a variation of an embodiment of a method; and

FIG. 7 includes a flow diagram of manufacturing a tamper-evident bag, according to a variation of an embodiment of a method.

FIG. 8A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 8B includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 8C includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 8D includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 9A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 9B includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 9C includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 9D includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 10A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 10B includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment;

FIG. 11 includes a flow diagram of manufacturing a tamper-evident bag, according to a variation of an embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The following description of the embodiments is not intended to limit the embodiments, but rather to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use.

1. Overview

In embodiments, a tamper-evident bag (e.g., reusable tamper-evident bag, etc.) can include a plurality of side walls; a pressure-sensitive adhesive strip positioned at a first side wall of the plurality of side walls; a perforation line positioned at the first side wall below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip; and a handle positioned at the first side wall.

In variations (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, 8A, 9A, and 10A), the handle is positioned at the first side wall below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and the perforation line, where the handle is positioned proximal the perforation line, and where the handle remains intact after the perforation line is torn to remove the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip. In specific examples (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, 8A, 9A, and 10A), the perforation line extends parallel a length of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip, and where the handle is positioned at the first side wall below a middle region of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and below a middle region of the perforation line. However, a tamper-evident bag can include any suitable number and type of handles configured in any suitable manner.

In variations (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1A, 2A, 9A, and 10A), the handle can include a soft loop handle. In specific examples (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1A, 2A, 9A, and 10A), the soft loop handle can be coupled to an exterior surface of the first side wall at a weld area positioned below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and the perforation line, where the weld area is positioned proximal the perforation line, and where the soft loop handle remains intact after the perforation line is torn to remove the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip. In specific examples (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1A, 2A, 9A, and 10A), the top of the soft loop handle is positioned above a first bag opening formed by the plurality of side walls before the perforation line is torn, and where the top of the soft loop handle is positioned above a second bag opening formed by the plurality of side walls after the perforation line is torn.

In variations (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3A, 4A, and 8A), the handle can include a die cut handle. In specific examples (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3A, 4A, and 8A), the die cut handle can be disposed in the first side wall below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and the perforation line, where the die cut handle is positioned proximal the perforation line, and where the die cut handle remains intact after the perforation line is torn to remove the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip.

In variations, the plurality of side walls form a first bag opening, where the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is configured to facilitate closure of the first bag opening in response to adherence of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip to a second side wall opposing the first side wall of the plurality of side walls, where the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is removed after the perforation line is torn to form a second bag opening.

In embodiments, a tamper-evident bag (e.g., reusable tamper-evident bag, etc.) can include multiple side walls, a closed bottom, and an opening defined by a top edge of the multiple side walls; a handle feature is disposed on two side walls; a pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is disposed proximate to the top edge of a first side wall; and/or a perforation line of uniform height is disposed in the multiple side walls above the handle feature and below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip. In variations of embodiments, methods for using and manufacturing a reusable tamper-evident bag are also disclosed. Various alternative embodiments, other variants, and advantages are described herein.

In specific examples, tamper-evident bags (e.g., described herein; bags manufactured using processes described herein; etc.) can be used for delivery services (e.g., home delivery, workplace delivery, delivery of goods purchased online or through delivery services, etc.) associated with foods, medication, tangible goods, and/or other suitable goods.

2. Embodiments of a Tamper-Evident Bag.

Embodiments of tamper-evident bags described herein can be constructed from various flexible materials, from a combination of materials, and/or any suitable materials, such as where materials used for construction can be determined based on application needs (e.g., based on type of goods to be used with the tamper-evident bags). For example, bags (e.g., tamper-evident bags, etc.) can be constructed using plastics, such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), recyclable materials, composite materials, adhesive materials (e.g., adhesive regions, such as single- or double-sided adhesive regions of any suitable size and shape, adhesive strips, etc.), ink (e.g., of any suitable color, etc.) and/or any suitable materials. In variations, the bags could be constructed partially, or completely, from paper. Plastics and/or other suitable materials used for construction can be of any suitable density (e.g., low density, medium density, high density, etc.).

FIG. 1A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1B includes a sectional view of the variation at cutting line 140. As shown therein, a variation bag can include a pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 disposed on an inner portion of a side wall 155 (e.g., where the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 extends parallel to a top of a side wall 155 at the bag opening 155, etc.), such as near (e.g., proximal) bag opening 110 (e.g., at a top edge 205). The pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 preferably includes a release liner (not shown) to prevent adhesion when not intended. In use, in examples, the release liner is removed (e.g., by a user, such as after placement of one or more goods into the tamper-evident bag; etc.) and the bag opening 110 is sealed closed by forming a bond between the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 and an inside surface 150 of opposing wall 156. In examples, the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 has a relatively high level of adhesion such that any attempt to breach the seal formed by pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 would be evident (e.g., in relation to tamper-evident tearing of the bag, etc.). In specific examples, a pressure-sensitive adhesive strip refers to a strip containing a permanent adhesive (e.g., such that attempts to break and/or remove the adhesion facilitated by the adhesive strip would result in evident tampering of the bag, such as in relation to bag tearing, etc.). In variations, a tamper-evident bag can include any number of pressure-sensitive adhesive strips 105 and/or suitable adhesive regions (e.g., of same or different shapes, etc.) positioned at any suitable location (e.g., at one or more inner portions of one or more side walls 155, 156; etc.). However, adhesive strips 105 and/or suitable adhesive materials can be configured in any suitable manner.

In variations, tamper-evident bags can include one or more soft loop handles 115. Soft loop handles 115 may be, for example, strips of pliable plastic, but can additionally or alternatively be constructed of any suitable materials (e.g., described herein), such as with any suitable degree of softness, hardness, and/or flexibility. In specific examples, the soft loop handles 115 are disposed on exterior surfaces of sidewalls 155, 156, and attached at weld areas 117. In conventional bags, handles are bonded to interior surfaces. In specific examples, the weld areas 117 can be positioned at exterior surfaces of sidewalls 155, 156, such as at positions below perforation lines (e.g., enabling the soft loop handles 115 to stay intact after tearing of the perforation line, etc.). In specific examples, welding to exterior surfaces, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, is beneficial because doing so avoids interference with the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 (e.g., during use of the adhesive strip 105 in coupling interior portions of side walls 115, 116, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, weld areas 117 and/or portions of soft loop handles 115 can be positioned at any suitable location. However, soft loop handles 115 can be configured in any suitable manner.

Embodiments of a tamper-evident bag can include one or more perforation lines 120. A perforation line 120 can facilitate consumer access to bag contents after the bag opening 110 has been sealed (e.g., permanently sealed; sealed such that opening of the seal would require actions that would indicate tampering of the bag; etc.) by activation of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105, such that tearing of the perforation line 120 can enable a user (e.g., consumer) to access the inside of the bag (e.g., through a new bag opening). In a specific example, as illustrated in FIG. 1A, a perforation line 120 is disposed above the weld areas 117 and below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105. A new bag opening is formed at perforation line 120 upon separating the bag at perforation line 120. Advantageously, such separation leaves the handles 115 intact, increasing utility of the bag for post-delivery uses (e.g., reuses). Additionally or alternatively, one or more perforation lines 120 can be positioned at any suitable location. However, one or more perforation lines 120 can be configured in any suitable manner.

Embodiments of a tamper-evident bag can include a gusset 145 formed between a bottom edge 130 and a gusset fold 135 (and/or one or more gussets 145 formed at any suitable location). The gusset 145 can enable a substantially flat-bottom for bag contents (e.g., for bag contents to reside in an upright position, such as to not disturb the bag contents during delivery and/or use of the bag, etc.). In variations, optional corner welds 125 enhance strength at ends of the gusset 145.

FIG. 1C includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment. In FIG. 1C, side walls 155 and 156 are replaced with side walls 157 and 158, respectively. In a specific example, a difference includes that sidewalls 157 and 158 include folded-over portions 165, which can provide a folded edge at bag opening 110, and a 2-ply thickness in portions of each sidewall 157, 158, to include welds areas 117. In FIG. 1C, folded-over portions 165 are joined to sidewalls 157 and 158 at weld line 160.

Any suitable variations to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C and described herein are possible. For example, the handles 115 could be formed from alternative materials or presented in alternative shapes, such as where the handles 115 can be attached to an exterior surface of the sidewalls below the perforation line 120. In the case of paper construction, the weld areas 117 could instead be glue areas 117, optional corner welds 125 could instead be optional corner glue lines 125, and the weld line 160 could instead be a glue line 160. In examples, the gusset 145 may not be required. In the illustration of variations of the embodiment, sidewalls 155 and 156 (the variant in FIG. 1B), or 157 and 158 (the variant in FIG. 1C), can be joined at edges 100. But other features described herein can readily apply to a 4-sided bag and/or bag with any suitable number and/or type of sides.

FIG. 2A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment (e.g., second embodiments). FIG. 2B includes a sectional view of that same embodiment at cutting line 140. The second embodiment can include identical features as variations of a first embodiment (e.g., illustrated, in specific examples, in FIGS. 1A, 1B, IC, etc.) and/or suitable embodiments described herein, and vice versa, except as described below (e.g., in specific examples, etc.).

As illustrated in specific examples in FIGS. 2A and 2B, sidewall 221 includes a top edge 205, and sidewall 222 includes a top edge 210. Sidewall 222 is taller than sidewall 221, creating a flap 215. The pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 is disposed on an interior surface of the flap 215. In use, the release liner is removed from the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105, the flap 215 is folded over the top edge 205, and the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 is bonded to an exterior surface of the sidewall 221.

FIG. 2C includes a sectional view of a bag according to a variation of the second embodiment of the invention. In the illustrated variation, side walls 221 and 222 are replaced with side walls 223 and 224, respectively. The difference is that sidewalls 223 and 224 include folded-over portions 230. This provides a folded edge at bag opening top edges 205 and 210, and a 2-ply thickness in portions of sidewalls 223, 224, to include weld areas 117. In the illustrated variation of the embodiment, folded-over portions 230 are joined to sidewalls 223 and 224 at weld line 160.

Variations to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C and described herein are possible. For example, the handles 115 could be formed from alternative materials or presented in alternative shapes, so long as they are attached to an exterior surface of the sidewalls below the perforation line 120. In the case of paper construction, the weld areas 117 could instead be glue areas 117, optional corner welds 125 could instead be optional corner glue lines 125, and the weld line 160 could instead be a glue line 160. Moreover, in some applications, the gusset 145 may not be required. In addition, in an alternative embodiment, the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 could be disposed on an exterior surface of sidewall 221 or 223 adjacent to top edge 205 rather than on the flap 215 (as illustrated in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C). In the illustrated embodiment, sidewalls 221 and 222 (the variant in FIG. 2B), or 223 and 224 (the variant in FIG. 2C), are joined at edges 100. But other features described herein can readily apply to a 4-sided bag.

FIG. 3A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment (e.g., third embodiment; etc.); FIG. 3B includes a sectional view of that same embodiment at cutting line 140. The third embodiment can include identical features as any suitable variations of the first embodiment (e.g., illustrated, in specific examples, in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, etc.) and/or suitable embodiments described herein, and vice versa, except as described below (e.g., in specific examples, etc.).

As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B, a die cut handle 305 is disposed in sidewalls 311 and 312 below perforation line 120 (e.g., such as where the die cut handles can remain for reusability of the bag after tearing of the perforation line 120 by a user). In the variation illustrated in FIG. 3C, side walls 311 and 312 are replaced with side walls 313 and 314, respectively. The difference is that sidewalls 313 and 314 include folded-over portions 320. This provides a folded edge at bag opening 110, and a 2-ply thickness in portions of sidewalls 313, 314, to include the portion surrounding die cut handle 305. In the illustrated embodiment, folded-over portions 320 are joined to sidewalls 313 and 314 at weld line 160.

Variations to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C and described herein are possible. For example, die cut handles 305 could be shaped differently as any suitable shapes (e.g., where they can be disposed below the perforation line 120, etc.). In the case of paper construction, optional corner welds 125 could instead be optional corner glue lines 125, and the weld line 160 could instead be a glue line 160. Moreover, in some applications, the gusset 145 may not be required. In the illustrated embodiment, sidewalls 311 and 312 (the variant in FIG. 3B), or 313 and 314 (the variant in FIG. 3C), are joined at edges 100. But other features described herein can readily apply to a 4-sided bag.

FIG. 4A includes a side view of a bag according to a variation of an embodiment (e.g., a fourth embodiment, etc.); FIG. 4B includes a sectional view of that same embodiment at cutting line 140. The fourth embodiment can include identical features as variations of the second embodiment, and/or suitable embodiments described herein, and vice versa, except as described below (e.g., in specific examples, etc.).

As illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, a die cut handle 305 is disposed in sidewalls 411 and 412 below perforation line 120. In addition, the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 is disposed on an exterior surface of sidewall 105 adjacent to top edge 205. In the variation illustrated in FIG. 4C, side walls 411 and 412 are replaced with side walls 413 and 414, respectively. The difference is that sidewalls 413 and 414 include folded-over portions 420. This provides a folded edge at top edges 205 and 210, and a 2-ply thickness in portions of sidewalls 413, 414, to include the portion surrounding die cut handle 305. In the illustrated embodiment, folded-over portions 420 are joined to sidewalls 413 and 414 at weld line 160.

Variations to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C and described herein are possible. For example, die cut handles 305 could be shaped differently, so long as they are disposed below the perforation line 120. In the case of paper construction, optional corner welds 125 could instead be optional corner glue lines 125, and the weld line 160 could instead be a glue line 160. Moreover, in some applications, the gusset 145 may not be required. In addition, in an alternative embodiment, the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 could be disposed on an interior surface of the flap 215 rather than on an exterior surface of sidewall 411 or 413 adjacent to top edge 205 (as illustrated in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C). In the illustrated embodiment, sidewalls 411 and 412 (the variant in FIG. 4B), or 413 and 414 (the variant in FIG. 4C), are joined at edges 100. But other features described herein can readily apply to a 4-sided bag.

Embodiments of a tamper-evident bag can additionally or alternatively include one or more visual tamper-evident components 805 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8A-8D, 9A-9D, and 10A-10B), which can function to visually display tampering of a tamper-evident bag. A visual tamper-evident component 805 preferably includes one or more verbal tamper-evident components (e.g., a verbal tamper-evident component including one or more verbal words of any suitable language; etc.), but can additionally or alternatively include color-based tamper-evident components, graphic-based tamper-evident components, and/or any other suitable visual tamper-evident components 805. In a specific example, a verbal tamper-evident component can include a statement including and/or similar to “Do not accept the delivery if you cannot read the wording” and/or “DO NOT ACCEPT IF PRINT IS UNREADABLE”, such as where such a statement and/or component of a visual tamper-evident component 805 requires originality of the content to indicate the lack of tampering. In specific examples, verbal seals and/or suitable visual tamper-evident components 805 (and/or other components of embodiments of a tamper-evident bag) will be visually altered (e.g., impaired) in response to tampering of the tamper-evident bag (e.g., attempts to open the tamper-evident bag). Visual alteration of a visual tamper-evident component 805 is preferably irreversible, but can additionally or alternatively possess any suitable characteristics. In specific examples, manufacturing a visual tamper-evident component 805 (e.g., in embodiments of a method for manufacturing, etc.) can include printing a verbal component of a verbal seal such that the adhesive mechanism will alter the verbal component (e.g., verbal print; alteration to become illegible; etc.) in response to unauthorized tampering (e.g., unauthorized attempts to open the tamper-evident bag).

In a specific example, a tamper-evident bag can include a verbal tamper-evident component 805 positioned at a second side wall (e.g., such as side wall 221 or 411; such as at a visual tamper-evident sheet of a side wall), opposing the first side wall (e.g., such as 222 or 412) of the plurality of side walls, such as where the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 is configured for adherence to the verbal tamper-evident component 805, and where the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 is configured to visually alter the verbal tamper-evident component 805 when the adherence of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 to the verbal tamper-evident component 805 is tampered with.

In a variation (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8A-8D, 9A-9D, and 10A-10B), the visual tamper-evident component 805 (e.g., verbal tamper-evident component) can be positioned at one or more side walls (e.g., sidewalls described herein, such as 155, 156) and/or other suitable components described herein in embodiments of the tamper-evident bag. However, integration (e.g., positioning, manufacturing, etc.) one or more visual tamper-evident components 805 at one or more locations of one or more suitable components of embodiments of the tamper-evident bag can be configured in any suitable manner.

In a variation, the visual tamper-evident component 805 can be positioned in relation to one or more visual tamper-evident sheets 810 (e.g., positioned in relation to a visual tamper-evident sheet such that an adhesive strip 105 at the visual tamper-evident sheet 810 can be used to adhere to a location of the tamper-evident bag where the visual tamper-evident component 805 is located; positioned at one or more visual tamper-evident sheets 810; etc.) functioning to facilitate functionality of one or more visual tamper-evident components 805. In examples (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8A-8D, 9A-9D, and 10A-10B), one or more adhesive strips 105 and/or suitable adhesive regions (and/or associated release liners, etc.) can be positioned at one or more visual tamper-evident sheets 810, such as where the adhesive strip can enable closure of the bag (e.g., where the visual tamper-evident sheet 810 acts as a closable flap, etc.). In a specific example, the adhesive strip 105 can be positioned at a visual tamper-evident sheet 810 forming a closable flap that when closed (e.g., adhered to an exterior surface of a side wall described herein, such as side wall 155 or 156, etc.) can close the bag opening 110 and can place the adhesive portion of the adhesive strip 105 at the visual tamper-evident component, such as where attempts to tamper with the adhesive strip 105 (e.g., attempts to tear the bag at the bag opening; attempts to open the closed flap of a visual tamper-evident sheet 810; etc.) can visually alter (e.g., impair) the visual tamper-evident component (e.g., make a verbal component illegible; etc.). However, visual tamper-evident sheets 810 and/or other suitable components facilitating visual tamper-evident component functionality can be configured in any suitable manner.

In examples, one or more visual tamper-evident sheets 810 can be welded (and/or otherwise coupled) onto one or more edges (e.g., a top edge 205 and/or top edge 210; an edge of a bag opening 110; etc.) of the tamper-evident bag, such as where the welded visual tamper-evident sheet forms a closable flap (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8D and 9D). In examples, a visual tamper-evident sheet 810 can be integrated (e.g., without welding, etc.) with the main body (e.g., a side wall described herein, such as side wall 155 or 156; where integration can be with a side wall 155 of greater height than side wall 156, such as to enable formation of a closable flap region of the side wall 155, etc.) of a tamper-evident bag, such as through use of a hot melt glue pump.

In variations (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10A-10B), a visual tamper-evident sheet can include one or more segment cuts 815 functioning to facilitate non-interference with one or more handles (e.g., soft loop handles 115), such as when closing a visual tamper-evident sheet (e.g., forming a flap, etc.) to close a bag opening and/or to place the adhesive portion of an adhesive strip 105 at a visual tamper-evident component 805 (e.g., positioned at an external surface of a side wall described herein, such as side wall 155, etc.). In a specific example, as shown in FIG. 10A-10B, two segmented cuts 815 are made at two positions that enable closure of the visual tamper-evident sheet flap, where each cut is positioned and oriented such that the soft loop handles 115 pass through the visual tamper-evident sheet flap (e.g., at the cuts) as the tamper-evident sheet flap is closed (e.g., to close the bag opening, etc.). In a specific example, the handle includes a soft loop handle 115 coupled to an exterior surface of a side wall (e.g., a side wall described herein, such as side wall 155, etc.) at a weld area 117 positioned below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105, the perforation line 120, and the visual tamper-evident component 805, where the visual tamper-evident sheet 810 includes at least one segmented cut 815 for the soft loop handle 115 to pass through during closure of the flap to close the bag opening. In examples, performing the segmented cuts 815 can enable manufacturing of the visual tamper-evident sheets 810 and the visual tamper-evident components 805 using manufacturing processes and/or machines generally associated with soft loop handle bag manufacturing.

In variations tamper-evident bags including any suitable handle types (e.g., one or more soft loop handles 115; one or more die cut handles 305; etc.) can include one or more visual tamper evident components 805 and/or one or more visual tamper evident sheets 810 (e.g., visual tamper evident sheet regions 810 of one or more side walls described herein; etc.). In variations, one or more handles are positioned below a visual tamper-evident component 805 (e.g., verbal tamper-evident component, etc.), pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 (e.g., in an adhered and/or unadhered state), and/or perforation line 120. In a specific example (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8A-8D) a handle can include a die cut handle 305 disposed in the first side wall (e.g., such as side wall 412) and positioned below the verbal tamper-evident component 805. In a specific example (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8A-8D), the die cut handle 305 is positioned below the verbal tamper-evident component 805, the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105, and the perforation line 120, where the die cut handle 305 is positioned proximal the perforation line 120, and where the die cut handle 305 remains intact after the perforation line 120 is torn to remove the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 and the verbal tamper-evident component 805.

In specific examples (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 8C-8D and 9C-9D), the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 is positioned at an interior surface of a visual tamper-evident sheet of the first side wall (e.g., such as side wall 222 or 412), where the visual tamper-evident sheet forms a flap configured to close a bag opening and to position the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 proximal the visual tamper-evident component 805 positioned at the second side wall (e.g., such as side wall 221 or 411) opposing the first side wall (e.g., such as side wall 222 or 412). In a specific example (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10A-10B), the handle includes a soft loop handle 115 coupled to an exterior surface of the first side wall (e.g., such as side wall 222) at a weld area 117 positioned below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105, the perforation line 120, and the visual tamper-evident component 805, where the visual tamper-evident sheet 810 includes at least one segmented cut 815 for the soft loop handle 115 to pass through during closure of the flap to close the bag opening.

Additionally or alternatively, visual tamper-evident components 805, visual tamper-evident sheets 810, and/or segmented cuts 815 can be configured in any suitable manner (e.g., such as in relation to suitable components of embodiments of a tamper-evident bag, etc.).

However, components of embodiments of a tamper-evident bag can be configured in any suitable manner.

3. Embodiments of a Method for Using.

FIG. 5 includes a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for using a reusable tamper-evident bag. As shown therein, a process starts in step 505. A first user, for instance a retailer, opens the bag in step 510, places contents into the bag in step 515, peels a release liner from the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip 105 in step 520, and seals the bag in step 525. Step 525 may include closing the bag and applying pressure to activate the permanent adhesive. In bag embodiments having a flap 215, for instance as described with reference to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 4A, 4B, and 4C, step 525 may include folding the flap 215 prior to sealing.

A second user (e.g., deliverer) optionally uses handles (e.g. soft loop handles 115 or die cut handles 305) to transport the bag to a third user (e.g., consumer) in step 530. The third user tears the bag at perforation line 120 to remove the contents and produce a modified bag that retains the handles in step 535. Preferably, the third user (or perhaps a fourth user) reuses the modified bag in step 540. Step 540 is facilitated by the fact that handles (e.g., soft loop handles 115 or die cut handles 305) are intact on the bag after perforation line 120 has been torn.

Variations in the process illustrated in FIG. 5 and described herein are possible. In variations, any suitable portions of embodiments of a method for using the tamper-evident bag can be performed at any suitable time, order, and frequency. For example, in alternative embodiments, a different number of users could be associated with the embodiments of the method.

However, portions of embodiments of methods of use can be performed in any suitable manner.

3. Embodiments of a Method for Manufacturing.

Embodiments of methods can include any suitable combination of processes (e.g., omitting or including any suitable combination of steps; etc.) described in FIG. 6, 7, 11 and/or described herein, performable in any suitable order at any suitable time and frequency. In a specific example, a method for manufacturing a tamper-evident bag can include providing a film; providing a handle at the film; applying the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip; folding the film; and cutting the perforation line, where the perforation line is positioned below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip.

FIG. 6 includes a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a reusable tamper-evident bag. In specific examples, the process starts in step 605 and provides a flat plastic film in step 610. Step 610 could include, for instance, performing a bubble extrusion process, and slitting the bubble, as will be understood by persons skilled in the art.

In certain variations of embodiments, for instance those described with reference to FIGS. 1C and 2C, the process forms a 2-ply structure at a top end in step 615. Step 615 could include, for example, folding the film.

The process can include welding handles to the film (e.g., at eventual outside bag surfaces; such as soft loop handles; such as at weld areas; etc.) in step 620, and applies a pressure-sensitive adhesive strip (with release liner) at a top edge of the film in step 625. Various options exist for the location of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip, as described herein. The process can form a bottom gusset in the film in step 630. The process can additionally or alternatively include folding the film in step 635, temporarily folds the handles down in step 640, and cuts a perforation line below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and above handle welds in step 645. Folding step 635 can align top (opening) edges of the bag (e.g., but not completely in a flap embodiment). Folding step 640 can remove the handles from the cutting plane associated with step 645. The process heat seals the bag at the edges (e.g., at edges 100 to join sidewalls) in step 650. Step 650 may additionally or alternatively include forming gusset support structures before sealing the bag at the sides.

In a specific example, a method for manufacturing can include providing a handle at the film, which can include welding the soft loop handle to the film at a weld area step 620 (e.g., where the weld area is positioned below the perforation line and the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip; etc.)

Variations in the process illustrated in FIG. 6 and described herein are possible. In variations, any suitable portions of embodiments of a method for manufacturing can be performed at any suitable time, order (e.g., in relation to processes described in FIG. 6, 7, 11, and/or described herein, etc.), and frequency. In one respect, the manufacturing sequence could be varied. For instance the adhesive application step 625 could be earlier or later in the flow.

The process in FIG. 6 could also be modified, for example, by providing a plastic bubble in step 610, and then forming two opposing gussets in step 615. One of the gussets could be slit to provide the 2-ply structure, and the other could be the bottom gusset.

FIG. 7 includes a flow diagram of an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a reusable tamper-evident bag. The process starts in step 705 and provides a flat plastic film in step 710. Step 710 could include, for instance, performing a bubble extrusion process, and slitting the bubble, as will be understood by persons skilled in the art.

In certain embodiments, for instance those described with reference to FIGS. 3C, and 4C, the process forms a 2-ply structure at a top end in step 715. Step 715 could include, for example, folding the film.

The process can include die cutting handles in the film in step 720, and/or applying a pressure-sensitive adhesive strip (with release liner) at a top edge of the film in step 725. Various options exist for the location of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip, as described herein. The process can include forming a bottom gusset in the film in step 730. The process can include folding the film in step 735, and/or cuts a perforation line below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and above the die cut handles in step 740. Folding step 735 aligns top (opening) edges of the bag (but not completely in a flap embodiment). The process heat seals the bag at the edges (e.g. at edges 100 to join sidewalls) in step 745. Step 745 may also include forming gusset support structures before sealing the bag at the sides.

In a specific example, a method for manufacturing can include providing a handle at the film, which can include die cutting the die cut handle at the film step 720 (e.g., where the die cut handle is positioned below the perforation line and the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip; etc.)

Variations in the process illustrated in FIG. 7 and described herein are possible. In variations, any suitable portions of embodiments of a method for manufacturing can be performed at any suitable time, order (e.g., in relation to processes described in FIG. 6, 7, 11, and/or described herein, etc.), and frequency. In one respect, the manufacturing sequence could be varied. For instance the adhesive application step 725 could be earlier or later in the flow. Moreover, if may be advantageous to die cut the handles after folding the film in step 735.

The process in FIG. 7 could also be modified, for example, by providing a plastic bubble in step 710, and then forming two opposing gussets in step 715. One of the gussets could be slit to provide the 2-ply structure at the bag opening, and the other could be the bottom gusset.

In the case of paper construction, the manufacturing process could vary from what is illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 and described herein. For instance, such flow may involve cutting, folding, and gluing to achieve the same structure and arrangement of features illustrated in the various embodiments described herein.

In a specific example, a method for manufacturing can include forming a bottom gusset step 630 and/or step 730, such as for enabling a substantially flat-bottom for supporting uprightness of bag contents during tearing of the perforation line by a user.

In variations, as shown in FIG. 11, manufacturing a tamper-evident bag including one or more visual tamper-evident sheets (e.g., providing one or more visual tamper-evident sheets, step 940 etc.) and one or more visual tamper-evident components can include welding (e.g., using hot air and/or continuous sealer; etc.) and/or otherwise coupling one or more visual tamper-evident sheets) onto one or more edges (e.g., a top edge of a region of a side wall; an edge of a bag opening; etc.) and/or other suitable locations of the tamper-evident bag, such as where the welded (and/or otherwise coupled) visual tamper-evident sheet can form a closable flap (e.g., extendable over a bag opening). In specific examples, a visual tamper-evident sheet can be welded to a top edge of a region of a side wall, thereby extending the height of the side wall (e.g., where the visual tamper-evident sheet becomes a component of the side wall; etc.). In a specific example, a method of manufacturing can include welding a visual tamper-evident sheet to a region of the film (e.g., an eventual side wall region), where applying the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip step 950 can include applying the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip at an interior surface of the visual tamper-evident sheet, where the visual tamper-evident sheet can forms a flap configured to close a bag opening and to position the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip proximal the visual tamper-evident component. In specific examples, integration of visual tamper-evident sheets (e.g., with remaining components of the tamper-evident bag) can be performed during bag making processes at a continuous section, non-intermittent part before a first draw roller after unwinding.

In variations, as shown in FIG. 11, manufacturing a tamper-evident bag including one or more visual tamper-evident sheets integrated to a side wall of the tamper-evident bag (e.g., integrated into an initial film that eventually forms a side wall including a visual tamper-evident sheet, etc.) can include using a hot melt glue pump to inject a hot melt adhesive (e.g., permanent pressure sensitive adhesive, etc.) directly to the tamper-evident sheet (e.g., a top, flap region of a side wall of greater height than an opposing side wall; etc.). In a specific example, applying the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip step 950 can include injecting a hot melt adhesive (e.g., at a visual tamper-evident sheet integrated to a side wall, etc.), such as where the perforation line can be positioned below the hot melt adhesive.

Manufacturing a tamper-evident bag including one or more visual tamper-evident sheets and one or more visual tamper-evident components can be performed separately from processes described in FIG. 6 or FIG. 7, but can additionally or alternatively be performed in conjunction with any such processes. Manufacturing a tamper-evident bag including one or more visual tamper-evident sheets and one or more visual tamper-evident components, can be for tamper-evident bags including die cut handles and/or soft loops handles. In examples, the manufacturing can be performed at the conversion level. In examples, the manufacturing can be performed without an additional glue pump, but an additional glue pump can be used in variations.

In variations, manufacturing a tamper evident bag including soft loop handles can include performing segmented cuts at one or more positions of the visual tamper-evident sheets. In a specific example, as shown in FIG. 10A-10B, two segmented cuts are made at two positions that enable closure of the visual tamper-evident sheet flap, where each cut is positioned and oriented such that the visual tamper-evident sheet flap passes (e.g., at the cuts) through the soft loop handles as the tamper-evident sheet flap is closed (e.g., to close the bag opening, etc.). In examples, performing the segmented cuts can enable manufacturing of the visual tamper-evident sheets and the visual tamper-evident components using manufacturing processes and/or machines generally associated with soft loop handle bag manufacturing.

Manufacturing a visual tamper-evident component (e.g., verbal component, etc.) can include printing a verbal component step 910 (and/or suitable type of visual indicator) at a side wall and/or suitable component (e.g., at a surface without any print, etc.) of the tamper-evident bag; drying the print with a heater and/or air blow to remove suitable solvent step 920; and/or performing corona treatment step 930 (e.g., to reach a dyne maximum at the end of the printing line; etc.), such as after full evaporation of solvent. In specific examples, the corona treatment can enable an increase in surface tension outside of the printed region (e.g., outside of the printed verbal component, etc.), such as where the printed region can be unanchored to the original untreated film, enabling the lifting (e.g., tamper-evident altering, etc.) of the print (e.g., verbal component) upon unauthorized tampering (e.g., forceful opening of the bag after adhesion of the adhesive strip to the visual tamper-evident component, etc.), and where the area outside that has been treated will provide permanent adhesion to the glue. In a specific example, a method for manufacturing can include printing a verbal tamper-evident component at the film step 910, such as where the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is configured for adherence to the verbal tamper-evident component, and such as where where the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is configured to visually alter the verbal tamper-evident component when the adherence of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip to the verbal tamper-evident component is tampered with. In a specific example a method for manufacturing can include removing solvent associated with printing the verbal tamper-evident component step 920; and after removing the solvent, performing a corona treatment on the verbal tamper-evident component step 930.

Additionally or alternatively, manufacturing visual tamper-evident sheets and/or visual tamper-evident components can be performed in any suitable manner.

Variations in the process illustrated in FIG. 11 and described herein are possible. In variations, any suitable portions of embodiments of a method for manufacturing can be performed at any suitable time, order (e.g., in relation to processes described in FIG. 6, 7, 11, and/or described herein, etc.), and frequency. In one respect, the manufacturing sequence could be varied.

However, portions of embodiments of methods of manufacturing can be performed in any suitable manner.

4. Other

Those skilled in the art can readily recognize that numerous variations and substitutions may be made in the invention, its use and its configuration to achieve substantially the same results as achieved by the embodiments described herein. For example, features described with reference to different embodiments in this application can be combined in ways not expressly described. Accordingly, there is no intention to limit the invention to the disclosed exemplary forms. Many variations, modifications and alternative constructions fall within the scope and spirit of the disclosed invention.

Embodiments of the methods and/or tamper-evident bag can include every combination and permutation of the various system components and the various method processes, including any variants (e.g., embodiments, variations, examples, specific examples, figures, etc.), where portions of embodiments of the methods and/or processes described herein can be performed asynchronously (e.g., sequentially), concurrently (e.g., in parallel), or in any other suitable order by and/or using one or more instances, elements, components of, and/or other aspects of the tamper-evident bag and/or other entities described herein.

Any of the variants described herein (e.g., embodiments, variations, examples, specific examples, figures, etc.) and/or any portion of the variants described herein can be additionally or alternatively combined, aggregated, excluded, used, performed serially, performed in parallel, and/or otherwise applied.

As a person skilled in the art will recognize from the previous detailed description and from the figures and claims, modifications and changes can be made to embodiments of the methods, the tamper-evident bag, and/or variants without departing from the scope defined in the claims. Variants described herein not meant to be restrictive. Certain features included in the drawings may be exaggerated in size, and other features may be omitted for clarity and should not be restrictive. The figures are not necessarily to scale. Section titles herein are used for organizational convenience and are not meant to be restrictive. The description of any variant is not necessarily limited to any section of this specification.

Claims

1. A tamper-evident bag comprising:

a plurality of side walls;

a pressure-sensitive adhesive strip positioned at a first side wall of the plurality of side walls;

a perforation line positioned at the first side wall below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip; and

a handle positioned at the first side wall.

2. The tamper-evident bag of claim 1, wherein the handle is positioned at the first side wall below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and the perforation line, wherein the handle is positioned proximal the perforation line, and wherein the handle remains intact after the perforation line is torn to remove the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip.

3. The tamper-evident bag of claim 2, wherein the handle comprises a soft loop handle coupled to an exterior surface of the first side wall at a weld area positioned below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and the perforation line, wherein the weld area is positioned proximal the perforation line, and wherein the soft loop handle remains intact after the perforation line is torn to remove the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip.

4. The tamper-evident bag of claim 3, wherein the top of the soft loop handle is positioned above a first bag opening formed by the plurality of side walls before the perforation line is torn, and wherein the top of the soft loop handle is positioned above a second bag opening formed by the plurality of side walls after the perforation line is torn.

5. The tamper-evident bag of claim 2, wherein the handle comprises a die cut handle disposed in the first side wall below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and the perforation line, wherein the die cut handle is positioned proximal the perforation line, and wherein the die cut handle remains intact after the perforation line is torn to remove the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip.

6. The tamper-evident bag of claim 2, wherein the perforation line extends parallel a length of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip, and wherein the handle is positioned at the first side wall below a middle region of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and below a middle region of the perforation line.

7. The tamper-evident bag of claim 1, wherein the plurality of side walls form a first bag opening, wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is configured to facilitate closure of the first bag opening in response to adherence of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip to a second side wall opposing the first side wall of the plurality of side walls, wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is removed after the perforation line is torn to form a second bag opening.

8. The tamper-evident bag of claim 1, further comprising:

a verbal tamper-evident component positioned at a second side wall opposing the first side wall of the plurality of side walls,

wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is configured for adherence to the verbal tamper-evident component, and

wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is configured to visually alter the verbal tamper-evident component when the adherence of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip to the verbal tamper-evident component is tampered with.

9. The tamper-evident bag of claim 8, wherein the handle comprises a die cut handle disposed in the first side wall and positioned below the verbal tamper-evident component.

10. The tamper-evident bag of claim 9, wherein the die cut handle is positioned below the verbal tamper-evident component, the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip, and the perforation line, wherein the die cut handle is positioned proximal the perforation line, and wherein the die cut handle remains intact after the perforation line is torn to remove the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip and the verbal tamper-evident component.

11. The tamper-evident bag of claim 8, wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is positioned at an interior surface of a visual tamper-evident sheet of the first side wall, wherein the visual tamper-evident sheet forms a flap configured to close a bag opening and to position the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip proximal the visual tamper-evident component positioned at the second side wall opposing the first side wall.

12. The tamper-evident bag of claim 11, wherein the handle comprises a soft loop handle coupled to an exterior surface of the first side wall at a weld area positioned below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip, the perforation line, and the visual tamper-evident component, wherein the visual tamper-evident sheet comprises at least one segmented cut for the soft loop handle to pass through during closure of the flap to close the bag opening.

13. A method for manufacturing a tamper-evident bag, the method comprising:

providing a film;

providing a handle at the film;

applying the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip;

folding the film; and

cutting the perforation line, wherein the perforation line is positioned below the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the handle comprises a die cut handle, wherein providing the handle at the film comprises die cutting the die cut handle at the film, wherein the die cut handle is positioned below the perforation line and the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the handle comprises a soft loop handle, wherein providing the handle at the film comprises welding the soft loop handle to the film at a weld area positioned below the perforation line and the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising forming a bottom gusset enabling a substantially flat-bottom for supporting uprightness of bag contents during tearing of the perforation line by a user.

17. The method of claim 13, further comprising:

printing a verbal tamper-evident component at the film,

wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is configured for adherence to the verbal tamper-evident component, and

wherein the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip is configured to visually alter the verbal tamper-evident component when the adherence of the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip to the verbal tamper-evident component is tampered with.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising:

removing solvent associated with printing the verbal tamper-evident component; and

after removing the solvent, performing a corona treatment on the verbal tamper-evident component.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising welding a visual tamper-evident sheet to a region of the film, wherein applying the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip comprises applying the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip at an interior surface of the visual tamper-evident sheet, wherein the visual tamper-evident sheet forms a flap configured to close a bag opening and to position the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip proximal the visual tamper-evident component.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein applying the pressure-sensitive adhesive strip comprises injecting a hot melt adhesive, wherein the perforation line is positioned below the hot melt adhesive.