With Sliding Element Patents (Class 383/64)
-
Publication number: 20020034343Abstract: The present invention provides a bag comprising two generally parallel sheets (16, 18) forming the main walls of the bag, complementary closure strips (20, 22) fixed to respective ones of the sheets, and a cursor (50) for actuating the strips (20, 22) for closing and opening purposes, the bag being characterized in that it further comprises, parallel to the closure strips (20, 22), between said sheets (16, 18), and level with the mouth (12) of the bag, additional means in relief (100) disposed on the insides of the closure strips (20, 22), designed to provide sealing by forming a barrier between the sheets (16, 18) in the closed position of the bag, said additional means in relief (100) being placed facing the flanks (52, 54) of the cursor (50) to be urged towards their sealing position by the cursor (50) when the cursor is moved towards the sealing position.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2001Publication date: March 21, 2002Inventor: Henri Bois
-
Patent number: 6357914Abstract: A flexible package is provided with a slider fastener closure. A side seal forming the package is enlarged at its upper end to provide a smooth transition of product dispensed from the package, and to shield the slider during dispensing. The enlarged side seal portion is spaced from the fastener tracks. The fastener tracks are deformed to provide a stop, spaced from the side seals, to limit slider movement. A stop of reduced area, enlarging the package opening, is made possible.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Kraft Foods Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Panagiotis Kinigakis, Steven C. Lee
-
Patent number: 6354738Abstract: A reclosable package is provided having a front wall and a rear wall joined at the bottom and sides and an open top containing a zipper. The zipper has a first profile and a second profile, each including interlocking members adapted to mate with each other. One profile has a flange secured to its associated wall at a location proximal a top end of that wall. The second profile has a flange portion secured to the other wall proximal a top end of that wall and to the first wall at a location below the location at which the first flange is secured to the first wall. A line of weakness extends along the second flange portion parallel to the profile interlocking member and between the two securing points.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2000Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Thomas W. Buckman, John H. Schneider, Steven Ausnit
-
Patent number: 6347885Abstract: A flexible, reclosable package having a reclosable zipper construction openable and closeable by a slider device, and a tamper-evident structure disposed over the zipper construction to provide indication whether access has been gained to the interior of the package. A second tamper-evident structure may be disposed between the zipper construction and the package interior. This second structure may be a web or a peel seal.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: February 19, 2002Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: James E. Buchman
-
Publication number: 20020015537Abstract: A reclosable bag for filling with at least one food product. The reclosable bag generally includes at least one sheet of web material having at least two areas of structural weakness. At least one fold structure is located between and defined by the two areas of structural weakness. An opening is located generally opposite the fold structure. The reclosable bag further includes a reclosable fastener structure having an integral skirt structure of skirt web material extending therefrom. The integral skirt structure includes a distal margin. The distal margin is coupled to the web material at, at least one location between the areas of structural weakness and the opening. The reclosable fastener structure extends past the areas of structural weakness and into the fold structure. The reclosable bag capable of being filled with at least one food product through the opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2001Publication date: February 7, 2002Applicant: Sargento Foods Inc.Inventors: Aaron Strand, Karl L. Linck, Judy Fischer, Thomas J. Spaeth, Jerry D. Kolbe
-
Publication number: 20020012479Abstract: A slider device for use with a resealable package includes a top wall with first and second ends, a spreader depending from the top wall, a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first hook construction extending from the first sidewall, a second hook construction extending from the second sidewall, and a guide construction. The first and second hook constructions have sloped or tapered surfaces that facilitate mounting of the slider device on a reclosable closure construction, such as a zipper arrangement. Methods of assembling and operation are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2001Publication date: January 31, 2002Inventor: Mladomir Tomic
-
Publication number: 20020009239Abstract: A plastic bag comprises opposing body panels fixedly connected to each other along a pair of sides and a bottom bridging the pair of sides. A reclosable zipper extending along a mouth portion formed opposite the sealed bottom of the plastic bag. The zipper is preferably free of graspable upper pull flanges in order to best accommodate a slider and inhibit operation of the zipper without the slider. The slider is mounted to the zipper for movement between a closed position and an open position. The zipper is closed while the slider is in the closed position. The zipper is opened in response to movement of the slider to the open position. To inhibit tampering with the contents of the bag, the bag includes a tamper-evident feature. In one set of embodiments, the tamper-evident feature initially maintains the slider in the closed position and allows the slider to move away from the closed position toward the open position in response to removing or breaking the tamper-evident feature.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2001Publication date: January 24, 2002Inventors: Craig E. Cappel, Vernon C. Catchman, David V. Dobreski, David J. Thomas, Toby R. Thomas, Michael W. McManus
-
Patent number: 6334709Abstract: A set of at least three consecutive bags in a succession, each bag having two closure strips and a cursor situated at a respective distance (d1, d2) from one end of the strips, the strips and the cursor being identical between the bags. Between the bags in each pair of adjacent bags, the distances (d1, d2) are different.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2000Date of Patent: January 1, 2002Assignee: Flexico-FranceInventor: Henri Georges Bois
-
Patent number: 6332712Abstract: A pressure sealed bag made of a strong flexible plastic that has the structural integrity to remain upright when placed on its bottom surface while the upper portion of the bag has the flexibility to fold neatly over onto itself so that the bag can be readily grasped by the hand. An innovative dual locking mechanism ensures the contents of the bag are secure. The pressure sealed bag has a label area where information can be readily displayed.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2000Date of Patent: December 25, 2001Inventor: Eva L. Headley
-
Publication number: 20010053253Abstract: A method of making packages having a reclosable zipper construction openable and closable by a slider device, and the packages made thereby. An extended length of zipper closure construction is used. The zipper closure construction consists of a zipper closure having first and second mating profiles, a first tamper evident-structure encasing the slider device and the zipper closure, and a second tamper evident-structure. Together, the first and second tamper evident-structure envelop the mating profiles and slider device. When incorporated into a package, the first tamper-evident structure encases the slider device and zipper closure, and the second tamper evident-structure is positioned between the mating profiles and the package interior.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2001Publication date: December 20, 2001Applicant: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventors: James E. Buchman, Paul A. Tilman
-
Patent number: 6328469Abstract: Disclosed are plastic storage bags for storing clothing, linens and other items. The storage bag has sidewalls defining a cavity having a mouth opening at the top. A closure mechanism extends along the mouth for opening and closing the bag. A thin, side panel or flap is joined to one of the sidewalls along its top and sides to define an inverted pocket sized to contain a clothes hanger. The inverted pocket has a bottom opening for inserting the clothes hanger into the pocket and a top opening sized of lesser extent for receiving a hook of the clothes hanger without allowing the clothes hanger to pass through the top opening.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1999Date of Patent: December 11, 2001Assignee: S. C. Johnson Home Storage, Inc.Inventor: Michael J. Banco
-
Patent number: 6325239Abstract: The present invention provides a container comprising: (a) a semi-enclosed container body including a tubular structure having two open ends and a bottom panel enclosing one end of the container body, the other end of the tubular structure opposite from the bottom panel forming a substantially continuous outwardly-extending peripheral flange; (b) a lid for selectively converting the semi-enclosed container to a closed container; and (c) a closure for sealing the lid to the container body, the closure comprising a mechanical interlocking seal and a slideable mechanical closure for sealing the mechanical interlocking seal. The container is preferably stackable and self-supporting, and the mechanical interlocking seal includes at least one interlocking bead and groove pair located on the lid and flange. The container may also be collapsible via folding of the tubular structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1999Date of Patent: December 4, 2001Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Catherine Jean Randall, Matthew Todd Hupp, Jennifer Kay Kerfoot
-
Publication number: 20010043762Abstract: A plastic bag comprises opposing body panels fixedly connected to each other along a pair of sides and a bottom bridging the pair of sides. A reclosable zipper extending along a mouth portion formed opposite the sealed bottom of the plastic bag. The zipper is preferably free of graspable upper pull flanges in order to best accommodate a slider and inhibit operation of the zipper without the slider. The slider is mounted to the zipper for movement between a closed position and an open position. The zipper is closed while the slider is in the closed position. The zipper is opened in response to movement of the slider to the open position. To inhibit tampering with the contents of the bag, the bag includes a tamper-evident feature. In one set of embodiments, the tamper-evident feature initially maintains the slider in the closed position and allows the slider to move away from the closed position toward the open position in response to removing or breaking the tamper-evident feature.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2001Publication date: November 22, 2001Inventors: Craig E. Cappel, Vernon C. Catchman, David V. Dobreski, David J. Thomas, Toby R. Thomas, Michael W. McManus
-
Publication number: 20010038721Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of manufacturing packaging bags having lateral bellows, the method being characterized by the fact that it comprises the stepsof forming respective cutouts (150, 160) in each of the two lateral, bellows-forming zones of a packaging bag sheet (100) so that the bag has only two thicknesses superposed at the mouth of said bellows, at least over a portion of its width; and heat-sealing (184, 186) the adjacent edges of the sheet to the peripheries of the cutouts (150, 160) to close the bag. The invention also provides apparatus for implementing the method and bags obtained thereby.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2001Publication date: November 8, 2001Applicant: FLEXICO-FRANCEInventor: Henri Georges Bois
-
Publication number: 20010035423Abstract: The present invention provides a container comprising: (a) a semi-enclosed container body including a tubular structure having two open ends and a bottom panel enclosing one end of the container body, the other end of the tubular structure opposite from the bottom panel forming a substantially continuous outwardly-extending peripheral flange; (b) a lid for selectively converting the semi-enclosed container to a closed container; and (c) a closure means for sealing the lid to the container body, the closure means comprising a mechanical interlocking seal and a slideable mechanical closure for sealing the mechanical interlocking seal. The container is preferably stackable and self-supporting, and the mechanical interlocking seal includes at least one interlocking bead and groove pair located on the lid and flange. The container may also be collapsible via folding of the tubular structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 1999Publication date: November 1, 2001Inventors: CATHERINE JEAN RANDALL, MATTHEW TODD HUPP, JENNIFER KAY KERFOOT
-
Patent number: 6305844Abstract: The present invention provides a bag comprising two generally parallel sheets forming the main walls of the bag, complementary closure strips fixed to respective ones of said sheets in the vicinity of the mouth of the bag, and a cursor having two side flanges interconnected by a web, the flanges being placed on the outsides of the sheets at the mouth of the bag and co-operating with a central elongate tongue to define two converging passages for the complementary closure strips, wherein the tongue is interrupted so as to be set back from the longitudinal end of the cursor, in particular at the wider end of the cursor corresponding to the diverging ends of the passages, and wherein side flanges are provided in the vicinity of their free edges remote from the web with urging means for urging the sheets of the bag towards each other, said means occupying the entire longitudinal extent of the tongue and extending longitudinally beyond each end thereof so as to ensure that the bag is leakproof when it is in its clType: GrantFiled: November 1, 1999Date of Patent: October 23, 2001Assignee: Flexico-FranceInventor: Henri Bois
-
Publication number: 20010026649Abstract: A plastic bag comprises opposing body panels fixedly connected to each other along a pair of sides and a bottom bridging the pair of sides. A reclosable zipper extending along a mouth portion formed opposite the sealed bottom of the plastic bag. The zipper is preferably free of graspable upper pull flanges in order to best accommodate a slider and inhibit operation of the zipper without the slider. The slider is mounted to the zipper for movement between a closed position and an open position. The zipper is closed while the slider is in the closed position. The zipper is opened in response to movement of the slider to the open position. To inhibit tampering with the contents of the bag, the bag includes a tamper-evident feature. In one set of embodiments, the tamper-evident feature initially maintains the slider in the closed position and allows the slider to move away from the closed position toward the open position in response to removing or breaking the tamper-evident feature.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2001Publication date: October 4, 2001Inventor: Vernon C. Catchman
-
Patent number: 6293701Abstract: A slider device for use with a resealable package includes a top wall with first and second ends, a spreader depending from the top wall, a first sidewall, a second sidewall, a first hook construction extending from the first sidewall, a second hook construction extending from the second sidewall, and a guide construction. Preferably, the slider device includes a pair of drag-reducing standoffs in projection from the sidewalls. In preferred embodiments, the guide construction includes first and second fingers projecting beyond at least one end of one of the sidewalls. The slider device is usable with a reclosable zipper arrangement defining a pair of shoulders for engaging with the hook constructions of the slider device. Certain embodiments may include ridge structure on the slider and zipper for providing tactile feedback to the user. In another embodiment, there may be a color change as the zipper changes condition from an open position to a closed, interlocked position.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1999Date of Patent: September 25, 2001Inventor: Mladomir Tomic
-
Patent number: 6290390Abstract: A flexible, reclosable package having a reclosable zipper construction openable and closeable by a slider device, and a tamper-evident structure disposed over the zipper construction to provide indication whether access has been gained to the interior of the package. A second tamper-evident structure may be disposed between the zipper construction and the package interior. This second structure may be a web or a peel seal.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: James E. Buchman
-
Patent number: 6290393Abstract: A package, such as a flexible bag, having a resealable, reclosable zipper closure mechanism, opening and closing of which is accomplished by a slider device mounted on the zipper mechanism. A tamper-evident structure, such as a peel seal, is provided on the interior of the package between the zipper closure and the product retention volume. A second peel seal is provided between the zipper closure and environment surrounding the flexible package. Methods for making and using the dual peel seal zipper closure are described.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: Mladomir Tomic
-
Patent number: 6290391Abstract: A flexible, reclosable package having a reclosable zipper construction openable and closeable by a slider device, and a tamper-evident structure disposed over the zipper construction to provide indication whether access has been gained to the interior of the package. A second tamper-evident structure may be disposed between the zipper construction and the package interior. This second structure may be a web or a peel seal.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: James E. Buchman
-
Publication number: 20010021280Abstract: A plastic bag comprises opposing body panels fixedly connected to each other along a pair of sides and a bottom bridging the pair of sides. A reclosable zipper extending along a mouth portion formed opposite the sealed bottom of the plastic bag. The zipper is preferably free of graspable upper pull flanges in order to best accommodate a slider and inhibit operation of the zipper without the slider. The slider is mounted to the zipper for movement between a closed position and an open position. The zipper is closed while the slider is in the closed position. The zipper is opened in response to movement of the slider to the open position. To inhibit tampering with the contents of the bag, the bag includes a tamper-evident feature. In one set of embodiments, the tamper-evident feature initially maintains the slider in the closed position and allows the slider to move away from the closed position toward the open position in response to removing or breaking the tamper-evident feature.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2001Publication date: September 13, 2001Inventor: Toby R. Thomas
-
Patent number: 6286999Abstract: A plastic bag comprises opposing body panels fixedly connected to each other along a pair of sides and a bottom bridging the pair of sides. A reclosable zipper extending along a mouth portion formed opposite the sealed bottom of the plastic bag. The zipper is preferably free of graspable upper pull flanges in order to best accommodate a slider and inhibit operation of the zipper without the slider. The slider is mounted to the zipper for movement between a closed position and an open position. The zipper is closed while the slider is in the closed position. The zipper is opened in response to movement of the slider to the open position. To inhibit tampering with the contents of the bag, the bag includes a tamper-evident feature. In one set of embodiments, the tamper-evident feature initially maintains the slider in the closed position and allows the slider to move away from the closed position toward the open position in response to removing or breaking the tamper-evident feature.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 1999Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignee: Pactiv CorporationInventors: Craig E. Cappel, David J. Thomas, Toby R. Thomas
-
Patent number: 6287001Abstract: A flexible package includes a package surrounding wall having a side edge and a mouth. A recloseable zipper is provided along the mouth for selective opening and closing of the mouth. The zipper includes first and second closure profiles. The first closure profile has a first closure member and a first flange. The second closure profile has a second closure member and a second flange. The first and second closure members are constructed and arranged to selectively interlock. A slider device is constructed and arranged to selectively open and close the mouth. A first seal region and a second seal region are provided. The first seal region permanently secures together the first and second flanges of the first and second closure profiles. The first seal region has a first length extending from the side edge. The second seal region permanently secures together the first and second closure members of the first and second closure profiles.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2000Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: James E. Buchman
-
Patent number: 6287000Abstract: A flexible package includes a recloseable zipper along the mouth of the package for selective opening and closing of the mouth. The zipper includes first and second closure profiles, which are configured and constructed to selectively interlock. A tamper evident seal is provided, attached to both the first and second closure members to indicate whether or not the seal on the package has been damaged. A slider device is configured and constructed to facilitate the mating (closing) and unmating (opening) of the zipper, and to open the tamper evident seal to provide access to the package interior.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2000Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: James E. Buchman
-
Publication number: 20010014186Abstract: The present invention provides a flexible storage bag having an opening, a mechanical interlocking seal for closing the opening, and a slider for sealing the mechanical interlocking seal. The slider includes a mechanical manually-releasable locking element for preventing accidental movement of the slider. The locking element may comprise a pivotally releasable locking element, such as a pivotally mounted loop of material, or a button which when depressed releases an internal locking mechanism within the slider, or an internal locking mechanism within the slider which is released by manually compressing the slider. Locking elements in accordance with the present invention may be automatically engaged and manually released by the consumer, or may be manually engaged and released. Locking elements may also secure the slider in other positions, such as opened and intermediate/partially opened positions, in addition to or instead of the closed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 1999Publication date: August 16, 2001Inventor: CATHERINE JEAN RANDALL
-
Patent number: 6273607Abstract: A flexible, reclosable package having a reclosable zipper construction openable and closeable by a slider device, and a tamper-evident structure disposed over the zipper construction to provide indication whether access has been gained to the interior of the package. A second tamper-evident structure may be disposed between the zipper construction and the package interior. This second structure may be a web or a peel seal.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2000Date of Patent: August 14, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: James E. Buchman
-
Patent number: 6264366Abstract: Reclosable closure arrangements suitable for use with packages, such as food and non-food packages, include a zipper closure having mating closure profiles that are releasably engageable with each other, a slider device to open and close the profiles, and a tamper evident-structure. In some embodiments, the tamper evident-structure is positioned between the zipper closure and the slider device. In other embodiments, the tamper evident-structure is positioned over the zipper closure and the slider device. The tamper evident-structure may be a variety of constructions, such as an encapsulating layer. The tamper-evident structures may include structures such as peel seals, areas of weakness, and solid folds.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2000Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: Richard G. Custer
-
Patent number: 6257763Abstract: A plastic film bag includes a reclosable closure which is opened and closed by a slider. The bag includes a tamper evident sheet closing off the bag mouth. Alternatively the tamper evident means consists of a hood which encloses the slider and reclosable closure.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1998Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Assignee: Huntsman KCL CorporationInventors: Robert C. Stolmeier, Ronald G. Thieman, James W. Burke, Thomas P. O'Connor
-
Publication number: 20010005973Abstract: A method of making reclosable packaging utilizes a longitudinally extending web of film material having cutouts therein. A length of zipper strip substantially half the width of the web and having an attached slider is applied transversely across the web of film material with the slider positioned in the cut out. The web is folded longitudinally with the zipper attached to the web and the slider positioned in the cut out. The edges of the web are brought together longitudinally and seamed to form a tube. The opposite ends of the tube are sealed to form the package. The resultant bag has the slider seated in the cut-out where it is readily visible to a consumer.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2001Publication date: July 5, 2001Inventors: John H. Schneider, Steven Ausnit, Donald L. Crevier, Joel Johnson, Stanley Piotrowski
-
Patent number: 6247844Abstract: A resealable slider closure mechanism includes a first closure profile, a second closure profile, a slider, and a plow. The plow is a separate piece that is attached to the slider at a later time. The plow has an attachment peg extending from it, while the slider has a cavity adapted to receive the attachment peg. The attachment peg is press-fitted, snap-fitted, or welded into the cavity. Alternatively, the plow has a tongue instead of an attachment peg while the slider has a groove instead of a cavity adapted to receive the tongue. The tongue is press-fitted, snap-fitted, or welded into the groove. The slider and the plow are designed to receive the first and second closure profiles, to slide along the first and second closure profiles in a first direction to cause the first and second closure profiles to engage, and to slide along the first and second closure profiles in a second direction to cause the first and second closure profiles to disengage.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1998Date of Patent: June 19, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventors: Mladomir Tomic, Gregory L. Petkovsek
-
Patent number: 6247843Abstract: A flexible package includes a recloseable zipper along the mouth of the package for selective opening and closing of the mouth. The zipper includes first and second closure profiles, which are configured and constructed to selectively interlock. A tamper evident seal is provided, attached to both the first and second closure members to indicate whether or not the seal on the package has been damaged. The tamper evident seal extends along a side of at least one of the first and second closure profiles. A slider device is configured and constructed to facilitate the mating (closing) and unmating (opening) of the zipper, and to open the tamper evident seal to provide access to the package interior.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2000Date of Patent: June 19, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: James E. Buchman
-
Patent number: 6220754Abstract: A closure device with interlocking fastening strips and a slider which establishes a leak proof seal. The closure device comprises first and second interlocking fastening strips arranged to be interlocked over a predetermined length and a slider with a separator finger which slidably engages said first and second fastening strips. The first fastening strip includes a first closure element and the second fastening strip includes a second closure element. The slider facilitates the occlusion of the closure elements when moved towards a first end of the fastening strips. The separator finger extends into the closure elements without extending completely through the closure elements. The portion of the closure elements below the separator finger are occluded when the slider is at the first end of the fastening strips.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1998Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: The Glad Products CompanyInventors: Jeffrey S. Stiglic, Michael G. Borchardt
-
Patent number: 6213641Abstract: A reclosable thermoplastic bag having an offset fastener. The bag includes first and second sidewalls, each having a top, a bottom and two opposing side edges, the first and second sidewalls being attached together along the respective bottom and side edges; an inwardly folded top pleat positioned across the first sidewall; a reclosable fastener having at least two cooperating closure members, one closure member being positioned proximate to the top of the first sidewall above the pleat, the other closure member being positioned proximate to the top of the second sidewall, such that when the bag is filled and closed, the reclosable fastener is offset.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1997Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: S. C. Johnson Home Storage, Inc.Inventor: William D. Price
-
Patent number: 6199256Abstract: Methods for mounting a slider device on a recloseable package include mounting the slider device by expanding the leg construction of the slider device with an expanding track to allow mounting of the slider on a recloseable zipper construction. A particular method includes providing a slider device to a slider positioner, such as a carousel, moving the slider along an expanding track, and mounting the expanded slider device onto the recloseable mechanism at the end of the track.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 1999Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventors: Michael D. Revnew, Andrew J. Gulotta, Lawrence W. Wirth
-
Patent number: 6200027Abstract: A bag formed of flexible thinwall sheet material for washing and/or dewatering comestibles having an upper compartment and a lower compartment connected by at least one opening. The bottom of the lower compartment is formed by a zipper-type closure. The members of the closure resist separation under elevated hydrostatic pressure generated in the lower compartment by centrifugal force. The closure may include a slider for providing controlled engagement and disengagement of the members, to permit use of the bag both for washing and dewatering.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2000Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Inventor: Darlene N. Jones
-
Patent number: 6186663Abstract: A gusseted package having a reclosable zipper is provided. The package includes opposing first and second walls extending from a package bottom and joined together by a pair of opposing expanding side gussets. The package further includes a reclosable zipper attached to the package walls. The reclosable zipper includes a carrier web having opposing first and second walls joined at their ends by opposing first and second gussets and a pair of interlocking fastener profiles attached to the opposing walls. When the fastener profiles are interlocked, the first and second gussets are captured between the profiles.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 1999Date of Patent: February 13, 2001Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Steve Ausnit
-
Patent number: 6183134Abstract: A zipper assembly is provided having first and second interlocking members respectively on first and second base strips. A first connect strip is secured to the first base strip and a second connect strip is secured to the second base strip. An extension of the second connect strip extends beyond the first connect strip when the interlocking members are engaged and a peel-sealable material is provided on the extension. A bag incorporating the zipper has the first connect strip attached to a first bag wall, the second connect strip attached to an opposite bag wall and the peels sealable material sealed to the first bag wall. A slider may be provided about the interlocking members.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2000Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.Inventor: Art Malin
-
Patent number: 6161271Abstract: A method for mounting a slider device on a recloseable package includes mounting the slider device by intersecting the slider device with a zipper arrangement so that at least one of the slider device and the zipper arrangement is distorted to allow mounting. A particular method includes mounting the slider device includes intersecting the slider device with the zipper arrangement at an angle between about 20 to 60.degree., preferably about 45.degree.. In another method, the zipper arrangement is distorted to facilitate mounting of the slider device thereon, and in yet another method, the slider device is distorted to facilitate mounting.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1999Date of Patent: December 19, 2000Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: Michael E. Schreiter
-
Patent number: 6135636Abstract: The present invention provides a flexible storage bag having an opening and a color indicating element adjacent to the opening, a mechanical interlocking seal for closing the opening, and a slider for sealing the mechanical interlocking seal. The slider includes an aperture, and the color indicating element is viewable through the aperture when the slider reaches a position along the mechanical interlocking seal to register the aperture with the color indicating element. The color indicating element is preferably positioned adjacent to an end of the mechanical interlocking seal, preferably positioned so as to indicate that the mechanical interlocking seal has been fully closed. The color indicating element may be a plastic insert of a different color than its surroundings or may be printed or painted in place.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 1999Date of Patent: October 24, 2000Assignee: Procter & Gamble CompanyInventor: Catherine Jean Randall
-
Patent number: 6071011Abstract: A fill-through-the-top reclosable package includes first and second opposing body panels joined to each other along a pair of sides and a bottom bridging the pair of sides. The package is provided with a reclosable fastener extending along a package top disposed opposite the bottom. The fastener includes first and second opposing tracks. The first track includes a male profile, while the second track includes a female profile adapted to releasably interlock with the male profile. To provide tamper evidence, the first and second tracks may be joined to each other along an area of weakness. When making the package, the first track is first attached to the first panel, the package is filled with a product via a fill opening between the second track and the second panel, and then the second track is attached to the second panel.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 1999Date of Patent: June 6, 2000Assignee: Tenneco Packaging, Inc.Inventors: Toby R. Thomas, Samuel D. Aversa, John D. Athans
-
Patent number: 6059456Abstract: A closure arrangement for a flexible package includes two base strips having channels and film-attachment portions, and a closure strip inserted within and slidably engaging the channels of the base strips. The closure arrangement includes shoulders on the channels configured to engage and retain the outer portions of the closure strip. The closure strip slides within the channels of the base strips to open and close the closure arrangement. A package and method of constructing a package are also described.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 1997Date of Patent: May 9, 2000Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: Timothy J. May
-
Patent number: 6036364Abstract: A fastener arrangement for use with a container having a reclosable profile includes a slider having walls forming a cavity for receiving an edge of the container. The walls are shaped to close the reclosable profile when the slider is slid in one direction. A retainer holds the walls together and also serves to open the reclosable profile when the slider is slid in the other direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1998Date of Patent: March 14, 2000Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: Gregory Vanden Heuvel
-
Patent number: 5964532Abstract: A reclosable package comprises opposing wall panels and a reclosable seal. The opposing wall panels are joined on three sides such as to create a receptacle space having a mouth at one end. The reclosable seal extends along the one end and including a first track and a second track. The first track includes a first reclosable element and a first fin portion extending downward from the first reclosable element toward the receptacle space. The first track is joined to one of the wall panels. The second track includes a second reclosable element and a second fin portion extending downward from the second reclosable element toward the receptacle space. The second track is joined to the other of the wall panels. The first and second reclosable elements are releasably engageable to each other. In one embodiment, the first and second fin portions are joined to each other along a one-time breakable preferential area of weakness to prevent tampering with the package prior to being opened.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1997Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignee: Tenneco Packaging Inc.Inventors: Eric A. St. Phillips, Toby R. Thomas, Alex R. Provan
-
Patent number: 5947603Abstract: A closure arrangement includes a first closure profile, a second closure profile, a slider device, and a slider housing. The slider device is designed to open the package when slid in one direction and to seal the package when slid in the opposite direction. The slider housing extends from a side of the package. The slider housing is designed to receive the slider device. When the package is opened and the slider device is slid into the slider housing, access to the contents of the package is provided across the entire width of the mouth of the package.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1998Date of Patent: September 7, 1999Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: Paul A. Tilman
-
Patent number: 5938337Abstract: A bottom-fillable, bottom-gusseted bag including a bag-forming structure having first and second opposing body panels joined along a pair of opposing transverse seals and an offset bottom-gusset extending between the transverse seals. The bag-forming structure includes an open end opposite the offset gusset. The offset gusset includes first and second gusset panels foldably connected to each other and foldably connected to the respective first and second body panels. The second gusset panel extends beyond the first gusset panel to provide a protruding trim portion. A zipper is attached between the first and second body panels along the open end. A slider is slidably mounted to the zipper for opening and closing the zipper. A transverse slit is disposed proximate to a fold line foldably connecting the second gusset panel to the second body panel and provides a fill opening through which a product can be inserted into the bag-forming structure.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1998Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: Tenneco Packaging Inc.Inventors: Alexander R. Provan, Toby R. Thomas
-
Patent number: 5919535Abstract: A plastic bag comprises first and second panels each having a top, a bottom, and first and second opposing sides. The first and second panels are joined to each other along their respective bottoms, their respective first opposing sides, and their respective second opposing sides. The plastic bag includes a zipper having a male and female track. The male track includes a male profile and a first fin, in which the first fin is affixed to the first panel in proximity to the top of said first panel. The female track includes a female profile and a second fin, in which the second fin being is affixed to the second panel in proximity to the top of said second panel. The male and female profiles having complementary cross-sections. The inventive fins comprises a first resin and optionally a second resin which along with the fins seals are able to withstand greater forces and more adverse conditions.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 1996Date of Patent: July 6, 1999Assignee: Tenneco PackagingInventors: David V. Dobreski, Steve P. Long
-
Patent number: 5911508Abstract: A reclosable bag comprises a pair of opposing wall panels, a reclosable seal, and an optional tamper-evident partition. The pair of opposing wall panels are joined along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the opposing sides to create a receptacle space having a mouth end opposite the bottom. The reclosable seal extends along the mouth end, and includes first and second opposing reclosable elements and first and second fins extending downward from the respective reclosable elements. The reclosable elements are releasably engageable to each other. The first and second fins are connected to the respective opposing wall panels. The tamper-evident partition is located below the reclosable elements and forms a one-time breakable preferential area of weakness. The tamper-evident partition separates an interior of the bag from a first area bounded in cross-section by the tamper-evident partition, the fins, and the engaged reclosable elements.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1997Date of Patent: June 15, 1999Inventors: David V. Dobreski, Charles D. Keyser, Toby R. Thomas
-
Patent number: 5871281Abstract: A plastic bag closer slider has a separator normally resting in notches in the tops of slider track strips, when the slider is at a bag-closed stop. As the slider is moved in the bag-opening direction, the separator is cammed downward by ends of the notches to disengage interlocking profile features and open the tag. In another embodiment, notches are omitted. The separator is manufactured with a normally down position but is resiliently biased upward when the bag is closed. As the slider is moved in the bag-opening direction, the pointed end of the separator wedge descends between the strips to open the bag. When the slider is moved in the bag-closing direction, the separator is cammed upward by the drag of the strip tops and the tapering walls of the slider squeeze interlocking profile features together, closing the bag.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 1996Date of Patent: February 16, 1999Assignee: KCL CorporationInventors: Robert C. Stolmeier, Thomas P. O'Connor
-
Patent number: 5788378Abstract: A reclosable standup bag and a method for manufacturing the bag. The bag includes opposing top and bottom panel assemblies. The top panel assembly includes first and second opposing fins having upper edge portions that define a mouth opening. Opposing front and back wall panels extend between the top and bottom panel assemblies. First and second opposing gusseted side wall panels couple and bridge the side edges of the front and back wall panels, defining four wall corners. A resealable closing assembly is coupled to the upper edge portion of the fins. The method for manufacturing the bag includes providing a lay flat web of a flexible packaging material and cutting comer reliefs at the location of the upper side corners of the bag. The lay flat web is run over a forming tube to create a duct-shaped cylinder with overlapping side edges. The side edges are joined and are fin sealed to form a tube having a bottom opening and a top opening.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 1996Date of Patent: August 4, 1998Assignee: Tenneco Packaging Specialty and Consumer Products Inc.Inventor: Toby R. Thomas