Reclosable, E.g., Ziplock (tm) Or With Valve Patents (Class 53/139.2)
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Patent number: 11731387Abstract: The present invention is a bag making machine (20, 30). The bag making machine (20, 30) includes: a conveying unit (37) which conveys a multi-layer film (S) in which films (13a, 13b) are overlapped; a side edge sealing device (27) which thermally fuses the films (13a, 13b) to each other; and an ultrasonic device (26) which crushes a part of a zipper member (14) disposed between films (13a, 13b). The side edge sealing device (27) includes: a platform (44); and a heat-generating head (45). The ultrasonic device (26) includes: an anvil (41); and an ultrasonic horn head (42). The heating-generating head (45) and the ultrasonic horn head (42) reciprocate at a same cycle via a link member (51).Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2020Date of Patent: August 22, 2023Assignee: HOSOKAWA YOKO CO., LTD.Inventors: Shintaro Nobe, Kazuhiro Umenaka
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Patent number: 11572212Abstract: A packing machine includes a guide configured to guide a sheet of packaging material formed in a tubular shape, a sealing device configured to fuse an overlapping portion of the packaging material, a detection element pivotally attached to the guide and arranged downstream of the sealing device along a welded portion of the packaging material, a biasing member configured to bias the detection element outwardly from the guide, and a detector configured to detect the detection element that is pushed out from the welded portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2021Date of Patent: February 7, 2023Assignee: SHIBUYA PACKAGING SYSTEM CORPORATIONInventor: Tomohiro Takemoto
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Patent number: 9016036Abstract: A closure having two profile strips for an at least partially flexible container for connecting a first container to a second container in a manner sealed against the environment in a such a way that a closed docking position can be obtained. Further the closure provides for conducting a flow in a sealed manner against the environment in a flow direction through the closure from the first container into the second container in such a way that an open docking position can be obtained. According to the described system, the second container facing the first container is designed with an identical closure that engages in the closure of the first container in the open docking position and forms a channel for the flow in the flow direction together with the closure.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2010Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: Flecotec AGInventor: Günter Untch
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Easy open and reclosable package with discrete laminate, with die-cut, anchored to second side panel
Patent number: 8800250Abstract: An easy-open and reclosable package includes a pouch including a discrete laminate including a tape including a base strip coated with a pressure sensitive adhesive, and a panel section having a die cut defining a die cut segment, the panel section adhered by the PSA to the base strip; the panel section anchored to a first side panel; the second surface of the base strip anchored to the inner surface of a second side panel; and a product in the pouch. The die cut segment is so arranged with respect to the pressure sensitive adhesive that when the package is opened, the package can be reclosed by adhering the pressure sensitive adhesive to the first side panel.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2011Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Cryovac, Inc.Inventor: Andrew W. Moehlenbrock -
Patent number: 8752356Abstract: A method of forming a reclosable fastener track having a slider. The process provides a reclosable fastener track, forms a slit in the fastener track, attaches a slider to the fastener track, seals the slit in the fastener track after the slider attaches, and creates a first and a second end stop on the track.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2009Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Assignee: Reynolds Presto Products LLCInventors: Michael Bohn, Roger E. Dowler, Matthew Oswald
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Patent number: 8484934Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a high burst slider zipper which allows for bottom filling of reclosable packages, such as large bags, and further provides increased resistance to damage from the dropping or shock loading of the filled package. This is achieved by providing a peel seal or other frangible or separable connection between the zipper profiles, and by sealing a portion of one of the flanges to itself by a hard seal above the peel seal. This causes the external forces on a bag from bottom filling or shock loading to be directed toward the hard seal and further directed so as to cause a shear force against the peel seal, thereby increasing the resistance of the package to external forces.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2009Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: David J. Anzini, Rusty Koenigkramer
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Patent number: 8397474Abstract: Methods of making slide-zippered reclosable packages are provided. In one embodiment, a pair of opposing film extensions are provided on each package between which a zipper and slider are attached. In another embodiment, sliders are inserted on to zippered packages output from a form-fill-seal machine or the like. In yet another embodiment, during package formation a reclosable zipper is sealed to each package and then a slider is inserted on to the zipper. In yet another embodiment, during package formation a reclosable zipper is sealed to each package and a slider is inserted on to each zipper, either before or after zipper sealing.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2004Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Michael J. McMahon, Art Malin, Steve Ausnit, Donald L. Crevier, Joel Johnson, David J. Matthews
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Patent number: 8371093Abstract: An air packaging device includes two layers of thermoplastic films, which form a sealable space where air is filled after first and second steps of heat-sealing process. The sealable space includes a number of independent sealed air chambers and a main air passage channel. The main channel has an air inlet. Each sealed air chamber is connected with the main channel by at least one one-way valve each including at least two layers of plastic films. At least two one-way valves are installed inside of the air chambers. This air packaging device increases the cushioning protection where the protection is most needed, but can reduce air chamber dimension at less important locations in order to reduce the volumetric size and, hence, reduce the shipping cost.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2011Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Inventors: Jiaying Zhang, Yaopeng Zhang
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Publication number: 20120285122Abstract: An apparatus including a feeding device configured feed a profile in a longitudinal direction, a cutting device configured to cut the profile to form a cut profile section, a gripping device configured to grip and transport the cut profile section, the gripping device being displaceable between a gripping position and a position for introducing the cut profile section into a bag, the gripping device comprising, a pair of grippers to hold the cut profile section, an actuator to move the gripping device in the vertical direction from a position above the bag to a lower position for introducing the cut profile section inside the bag, a moveable guide configured to guide the cut profile section inside the bag, the moveable guide being moveable in the vertical direction between a position above the bag and a position for insertion inside the bag.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2012Publication date: November 15, 2012Applicant: CONCETTI S.P.A.Inventor: Teodoro Concetti
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Patent number: 8141328Abstract: A system and method for free-standing hermetic storage of bulk, boxed or bagged commodities including the use of a thin, lightweight ultra low permeability loadable sleeve, and optionally a UV-, wind- and rodent-resistant cover on top of the sleeve. For bagged or boxed commodities, loading may be done manually or with a forklift while the sleeve and/or cover is held open. For bulk commodities, the cover is used to prevent tearing of the sleeve during loading and as such, is placed over the sleeve prior to loading of the sleeve via a pneumatic grain conveyor or similar device.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2009Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: GrainPro, Inc.Inventors: Philippe Villers, Tom De Bruin, Shlomo Navarro
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Patent number: 8127517Abstract: Apparatus and methods for forming, filling, and sealing a flexible recloseable container. Both vertical and horizontal methods for placing product within the container are disclosed. The invention includes guiding a web of film which has interlocking fastener strips sealed to the web. A slider for locking and unlocking the fastener strips is placed in the correct orientation, spread apart at a pair of inner feet, and inserted over the fastener strips. The slider is positioned to close a substantial portion of the strips, and then an end stop, docking station, and corner seal are formed against a sealing plate. The slider is then repositioned, and a tamper evident seal may be placed over the fastener strip. Apparatus and methods for placing a product in a flexible recloseable container, and also for manufacturing an empty, flexible recloseable container.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2005Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Ronald G. Thieman
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Patent number: 8122687Abstract: Horizontal form fill seal apparatus for making flexible packages with slider fastener closures is provided. Various types of fastener tracks are applied in-line with a plastic web and are bonded thereto. All package components are brought together at the point of fill. Flexible packages are provided with shrouded and unshrouded slide fastener closures.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Kraft Foods Global Brands LLCInventors: Panagiotis Kinigakis, Kenneth C. Pokusa, Kelly E. Arnold, Harold Marvin Howell, III, Kenneth Radakovits
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Patent number: 8117804Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for producing a high burst slider zipper which allows for bottom filling of reclosable packages, such as large bags, and further provides increased resistance to damage from the dropping or shock loading of the filled package. This is achieved by providing a peel seal or other frangible or separable connection between the zipper profiles, and by sealing a portion of one of the flanges to itself by a hard seal above the peel seal. This causes the external forces on a bag from bottom filling or shock loading to be directed toward the hard seal and further directed so as to cause a shear force against the peel seal, thereby increasing the resistance of the package to external forces.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2009Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: David J. Anzini, Rusty Koenigkramer, Clifton R. Howell, Steven Ausnit
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Patent number: 8070662Abstract: A tape 3, 4 with a zipper member and a bag film 5, 6 are continuously moved by rotation of a rotary drum 32 while being overlaid with each other such that the tape 3, 4 travels in a tape introducing groove 33 for a tape with a zipper member, the groove formed along a circumferential direction of the rotary drum 32. The tape 3, 4 with the zipper member is continuously welded to the bag film 5, 6 on a circumferential surface of the rotary drum 32 by a seal bar 35 that has a welding surface 34 in a curved shape corresponding to a circumferential surface shape of the rotary drum 32. The whole tape 3, 4 with the zipper member is accommodated in the tape introducing groove 33 for the tape with the zipper member and a seal surface of a tape body 31, 41 is adapted to be substantially flush with the circumferential surface of the rotary drum 32, so that heat applied from the seal bar 35 to the tape 3, 4 with the zipper member is restrained from transferring to the rotary drum 32.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2010Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Idemitsu Unitech Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shuichi Goto, Kenichi Tanaka
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Patent number: 8033974Abstract: A package having a recloseable pour spout is disclosed, with the package including front and rear package panels which may be joined at respective side edges thereof by inwardly extending side gussets. An upper edge portion of the package is removable, including one of the side gussets, to form a pour spout for dispensing the contents of the package. A fastener strip, which can be detachably connected to itself, extends between confronting inside surfaces of the front and rear package panels, adjacent to the pour spout, whereby the pour spout can be conveniently closed after the package is initially opened. A method of forming the present package is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2009Date of Patent: October 11, 2011Assignee: Innoflex IncorporatedInventor: James W. Yeager
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Patent number: 7937908Abstract: The present disclosure relates to the use of first and second adhesives for the attachment of zipper flanges to reclosable packages. A first adhesive is typically a reactive, cross-linkable hot melt adhesive while the second adhesive is typically non-cross-linkable hot melt adhesive, typically, but not limited to, either EVA-based or polyamide-based. Alternatively, the second adhesive can be a coextrusion layer including a resin that is typically used as a sealant layer in zipper extrusion, such as metallocene type linear low density polyethylene.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: David J. Anzini, Rusty Koenigkramer, Glyn Russell, Ernesto L. Pitargue, Arthur A. Bucci
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Patent number: 7882684Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for producing a high burst slider zipper which allows for bottom filling of reclosable packages, such as large bags, and further provides increased resistance to damage from the dropping or shock loading of the filled package. This is achieved by providing a peel seal or other frangible or separable connection between the zipper profiles, and by sealing a portion of one of the flanges to itself by a hard seal above the peel seal. This causes the external forces on a bag from bottom filling or shock loading to be directed toward the hard seal and further directed so as to cause a shear force against the peel seal, thereby increasing the resistance of the package to external forces.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2009Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: David J. Anzini, Rusty Koenigkramer, Clifton R. Howell, Steven Ausnit
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Publication number: 20100281830Abstract: The invention concerns a machine (1) for automatic placement of sliders, including in particular: a first supplier (100) for supplying closure profiles (20), said closure profiles (20) being provided with complementary means (22) allowing the progression of the closure profiles (20) in said machine (1); a second supplier (200) for supplying sliders (10); a device (400) for placing sliders (10); and a separator guide (300), situated opposite the device (400) for placing sliders, said guide (300) comprising a guide channel (310a, 310b) in which the closure profiles (20) progress, the width of said channel (310a, 310b) being smaller than the thickness of the closure means (22), such that when the profiles (20) are brought by the supply means (100) into the separator guide (300), the closure means (22) do not penetrate the guide channel (310a, 310b) while the portion (23) underlying said closure means (22) is squeezed by the walls of the guide channel (310a, 310b), in order to separate the respective free endsType: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2010Publication date: November 11, 2010Inventor: Michel Barreaux
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Patent number: 7827765Abstract: A method of forming a reclosable fastener track having a slider. The process provides a reclosable fastener track, forms a slit in the fastener track, attaches a slider to the fastener track, seals the slit in the fastener track after the slider attaches, and creates a first and a second end stop on the track.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2007Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Pactiv CorporationInventors: Michael Bohn, Roger E. Dowler, Matthew Oswald
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Patent number: 7779605Abstract: A unit operation station for use in a web processing machine comprising: a shuttle system including an input roller for receiving a web and an attached zipper, an output roller and a the connecting element for maintaining the input roller and the output roller in a fixed position relative to each other; a plurality of stations performing distinct operations for mechanically altering the attached zipper, one of the plurality of stations including a slider-insertion mechanism for placing a slider onto the zipper; a web path located beyond the input roller and including the plurality of stations; a driver for providing reciprocating movement to the shuttle system to cause intermittent movement of the web and the attached zipper along the web path; wherein the output roller releases the web and the attached zipper at a rate substantially equal to a continuous input feed rate of the web and the attached zipper, and wherein the shuttle system moves at a speed substantially equal to the continuous input/output feedType: GrantFiled: January 21, 2009Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Assignee: Pactiv CorporationInventors: Toby R. Thomas, Alexander R. Provan, Craig E. Cappel, Larry E. Benedict, Gerald R. Winiecki
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Patent number: 7757460Abstract: A vertical form fill and seal continuous pouch machine includes a forming tube having a cross section area of CA is disclosed. A film tube is continuously formed about the forming tube and fed downward. A horizontal sealing assembly includes at least one pair of opposing sealing bars that make horizontal seals on the film, thereby forming pouches. The horizontal seals are formed in a horizontal sealing zone, and the vertical distance from a lower end of the forming tube to the center of the horizontal sealing zone is a transition distance that is (in inches) preferably no more than 0.5 multiplied by the cross-section area (in sq inches).Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2008Date of Patent: July 20, 2010Assignee: CMD CorporationInventors: Curt Frievalt, Brian E. Kettner
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Patent number: 7748200Abstract: A reclosable, tamper-proof, fillable package includes a first side panel and a second side panel joined to each other along a pair of spaced side seals. A bottom wall extends between the first and second side panels with the bottom wall and the first and second side panels defining a package interior. A tamper-evident structure having opposite sides connected to each other extends above a combined zipper closure and slider device, and is connected to the zipper closure. Only one side of the tamper-evident structure is initially connected to one of the first and second side panels so that a fill opening adapted to receive a product is created between the other side of the tamper-evident structure and the other of the first and second side panels.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: James E. Buchman
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Patent number: 7731646Abstract: A reclosable fastener (10) comprising a two-part body and a single flange (16) is located between two webs (34) of material from which a bag is to be made on a form-fill-seal machine. The fastener is attached initially to the inside of one web (34) by the flange (16). The combination passes between sealing jaws (44) to seal the webs to the fastener at thickened zones (30) at the margins of the body By making the body compact, and by using sealing jaws (44) which are longer than the body, the webs (34) form around the ends of the fastener body.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2001Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Murray Edward Bruce Leighton
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Patent number: 7673437Abstract: A reclosable package having a slider-operated zipper wherein the contents of the package are accessed through the front wall of the package, not through the top of the package. The reclosable package comprises: a bag body comprising front and rear walls of bag making material; a flexible zipper joined to the front wall and not joined to the rear wall; and a slider mounted to the zipper, the slider being movable in a first direction along the zipper for opening the zipper and movable in a second direction along the zipper for closing the zipper. Alternatively, the flexible zipper is joined to the front wall along first and second zones of joinder disposed at different heights on the front wall, and is joined to the rear wall only in zones of joinder where the zipper is joined to both of the front and rear walls.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2005Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: John H. Schneider, Steven Ausnit
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Patent number: 7637297Abstract: An apparatus, device and method for producing end seals on a continuous supply of fastener strip having first and second interlocked profiles before the fastener strip is attached to a supply of thermoplastic film used to make a reclosable bag. The fastener strip is advanced through a guide. A first section is identified and fused thereby providing a first end seal. A second end section is identified with the identification based on the first end seal. The second section is fused, thereby providing a second end seal with the result of a length of fastener strip including a pair of end seals. A device is provided to simultaneously fuse and cut the fastener strip at the exiting end of the fastener guide.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2004Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Eric P. Plourde
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Patent number: 7621105Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for producing a high burst slider zipper which allows for bottom filling of reclosable packages, such as large bags, and further provides increased resistance to damage from the dropping or shock loading of the filled package. This is achieved by providing a peel seal or other frangible or separable connection between the zipper profiles, and by sealing a portion of one of the flanges to itself by a hard seal above the peel seal. This causes the external forces on a bag from bottom filling or shock loading to be directed toward the hard seal and further directed so as to cause a shear force against the peel seal, thereby increasing the resistance of the package to external forces.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2007Date of Patent: November 24, 2009Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: David J. Anzini, Rusty Koenigkramer, Clifton R. Howell, Steven Ausnit
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Patent number: 7614203Abstract: A valve assembly for use with a self-sealing collapsible storage bag, the valve assembly having a first portion comprising a housing that has a sealing surface and contains a valve mechanism. A second portion has a sealing surface that is configured to mate with the sealing surface of the first portion. A snap mechanism is configured to allow the first and second portions to be snapped together with their respective sealing surfaces facing each other to form a substantially airtight seal. In operation, the first and second portions are positioned on opposing sides of a panel of a plastic storage bag, and snapped together so as to sandwich the panel between the first and second portions of the valve assembly. The plastic bag is pierced in the area of the valve assembly either during installation of the valve assembly, or later by insertion of a nozzle. Gas or fluid such as air may be selectively removed from or added to the interior of the storage bag through the valve mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2005Date of Patent: November 10, 2009Assignee: Safety Solutions, Inc.Inventor: John P. Oltrogge
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Patent number: 7597657Abstract: A package having a recloseable pour spout is disclosed, with the package including front and rear package panels which may be joined at respective side edges thereof by inwardly extending side gussets. An upper edge portion of the package is removable, including one of the side gussets, to form a pour spout for dispensing the contents of the package. A fastener strip, which can be detachably connected to itself, extends between confronting inside surfaces of the front and rear package panels, adjacent to the pour spout, whereby the pour spout can be conveniently closed after the package is initially opened. A method of forming the present package is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2008Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Inventor: James W. Yeager
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Patent number: 7563219Abstract: A drum configuration uses first and second rotary drums to apply alternate zipper segments in a transverse direction to a sheet of moving web or film. This allows the web to maintain a constant speed without the intermittent pausing while the zipper segments are sealed to the web.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2007Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Kevin Owen, David C. Wallace
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Patent number: 7552572Abstract: A packaging method includes the providing of a bag. A mouth of the bag may include an opening/closing for multiple successive openings and closings and a cleavable linking veil, located at a distance therefrom inside the bag in relation to the opening/closing. The method may also include introduction of contents to be wrapped in the bag and tightening of said bag in order to close it, with tension being applied to the contents. A veil may enter into contact with the contents to avoid the application of stress on the opening/closing, and guarantee free access to the contents via said opening/closing after tearing the cleavable linking veil. In one embodiment, free access to bag contents enables the bag to be relaxed in a closed state as a result of the distance (D) separating the veil and the opening/closing. The invention also relates to a packaging device and to bags thus obtained.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Assignee: S2F FlexicoInventor: Henri Bois
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Patent number: 7552573Abstract: An invention for forming, filling, and sealing a flexible recloseable container. Both vertical and horizontal methods for placing product within the container are disclosed. The invention includes guiding a web of film which has interlocking fastener strips sealed to the web. A slider for locking and unlocking the fastener strips is placed in the correct orientation, spread apart at a pair of inner feet, and inserted over the fastener strips. The slider is positioned to close a substantial portion of the strips, and then an end stop, docking station, and corner seal are formed against a sealing plate. The slider is then repositioned, and a tamper evident seal may be placed over the fastener strips.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2005Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Assignee: Illinois Tool Works, Inc.Inventor: Ronald G. Thieman
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Patent number: 7549269Abstract: A bag having a reclosable sealer and methods of forming and using the same are provided. The bag, for example, can include a tube body having a plurality of laminated layers. A reclosable sealer can be attached to a first wall of the tube body. When the bag is in an open bag position, a first portion of the reclosable sealer is separated from a second portion of the reclosable sealer. When the reclosable sealer is in the closed seal position, the first portion of the reclosable sealer contacts the second portion of the reclosable sealer forming a seal to thereby allow the bag to be readily opened and closed. Peripheral portions of the bag can remain unsealed after initial opening when the reclosable sealer is in the closed seal position to indicate that initial opening has occurred and that tampering with the bag may have occurred.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2005Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Assignee: Exopack LLCInventors: L. Roseann Woodham, Alfred A. McLellan, Debra L. Sullivan, George Solomon
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Patent number: 7540662Abstract: Apparatus and methods for forming, filling, and sealing a flexible recloseable container. Both vertical and horizontal methods for placing product within the container are disclosed. The invention includes guiding a web of film which has interlocking fastener strips sealed to the web. A slider for locking and unlocking the fastener strips is placed in the correct orientation, spread apart at a pair of inner feet, and inserted over the fastener strips. The slider is positioned to close a substantial portion of the strips, and then an end stop, docking station, and corner seal are formed against a sealing plate. The slider is then repositioned, and a tamper evident seal may be placed over the fastener strip. Apparatus and methods for placing a product in a flexible recloseable container, and also for manufacturing an empty, flexible recloseable container.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2003Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Ronald G. Thieman
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Patent number: 7506487Abstract: A bag is has an opening defined by a pair of walls and a pair of gussets. The walls are joined by the gussets. The bag has two slits. Each of the two slits is formed adjacent a wall and a gusset. Each of the two slits is adjacent the opening. A zipper comprises a pair of interlocking sections. The zipper is inserted through the slits. The interlocking sections are secured to at least a portion of each of the walls.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2005Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: Zip Pack IP AGInventors: Claude Alan Eads, Rainer M. Garger, Thomas P. O'Connor
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Publication number: 20090044492Abstract: A device is provided for feeding horizontally oriented packages or bags at a regular interval to a zipper profile attaching device. The loose packages or bags are placed onto a servo-driven lugged chain conveyor wherein the lugs are evenly spaced at the nominal desired center-to-center spacing of the packages or bags. The servo-driven lugged chain conveyor feeds the packages or bags to be captured between upper and lower secondary constant velocity conveyors. The lower secondary constant velocity conveyor includes an encoder which is used to slave the servo of the servo-driven lugged chain conveyor, with an adjustable programmable ratio. This achieves a consistent center-to-center distance of the horizontally oriented packages or bags which are then fed to a zipper profile attaching device.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2007Publication date: February 19, 2009Inventors: Clifton R. Howell, David C. Wallace, Adam N. Caplan
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Patent number: 7490451Abstract: Methods and apparatus for automated manufacture of block bottom pillow top bags.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2005Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: David J. Matthews
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Patent number: 7458925Abstract: A method of and apparatus for producing plastic bags are disclosed. A web of plastic is folded to form an elongate folded web having free ends and closer tape is secured to the free ends of the elongate folded web. End stops are formed in the closer tape at spaced locations thereof and an indicia is formed in the end stops. The elongate folded web is simultaneously severed and sealed at the spaced locations to produce individual bags.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2001Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: S.C. Johnson Home Storage, Inc.Inventor: Robert R. Turvey
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Patent number: 7455636Abstract: An apparatus for application of zippers to film material 10 comprises an applicator bar 22 for presenting pre-cut lengths of zipper 26 to the film and a heated sealing bar 34 for sealing the pre-cut lengths to the film. The applicator bar, the sealing bar, feed rollers 30a, 30b and a zipper cutter 32 are mounted for movement with the film on a linear motor 14. A pneumatic cylinder 18 raised the application bar towards the film 10. The applicator bar moves in direction C to apply the zipper to the film 10 moving in direction A, then moves with the sealing bar and the film in direction B, away from the film in direction C?, back to its starting position in direction B?, then towards the film again in direction C. A further length of zipper may be fed to the applicator bar at any time after the bar has moved away from the film in direction C? and therefore during an end portion of the forward stroke of the motor, or during its return stroke.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2005Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Murray Edward Bruce Leighton
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Patent number: 7430844Abstract: A method of making and filling reclosable packages using a duplex machine includes the steps of providing a zipper profile, package film and a plurality of sliders; feeding the zipper profile; applying the sliders to the zipper profile; coupling the zipper profile to the folded web; sealing two edges of the folded web to form adjacent pouches; filling the pouches; sealing the pouches proximate a third edge thereof; and separating the pouches in order to form individual packages. The method employs a single rotating slider applicator having a programmable servo motor which is programmed in order to synchronize the application of the sliders to the moving zipper profile with the two at a time form, fill, seal and separate packaging operations of the duplex machine. A duplex machine is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2007Date of Patent: October 7, 2008Assignee: Alcoa, Inc.Inventors: James E. Buchman, Paul A. Tilman
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Patent number: 7415810Abstract: A method of manufacturing a reclosable package having a hooded slider-operated zipper, comprising the following steps: (a) interlocking profiled closure members of first and second flanged zipper strips; (b) inserting a slider on the zipper strips; (c) folding zipper flanges of the first and second flanged zipper strips so that respective portions of the zipper flanges confront each other at a position above the profiled closure members; (d) joining the mutually confronting portions of the zipper flanges to each other to form a hood over the profiled closure members; (e) guiding first and second portions of web material into mutual confrontation; (f) guiding the mutually interlocked first and second zipper strips to positions whereat a portion of one zipper flange confronts the first portion of web material and a portion of the other zipper flange confronts the second portion of web material; and (g) joining respective portions of the zipper flanges to the first and second portions of web material respectivelType: GrantFiled: September 22, 2004Date of Patent: August 26, 2008Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Eric Paul Plourde, Timothy S. McLaren
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Patent number: 7410453Abstract: The present invention includes a method and apparatus wherein webless zipper is provided with concave seal bridges. These concave seal bridges are complementary in shape to convex sealing bars. This captures or positions the seal bridges of the zipper profiles resulting in improved alignment of the profiles and improved performance of the manufacturing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2006Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Eric Fenzl, Gregory Crunkleton
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Patent number: 7409810Abstract: A vertical form fill and seal continuous pouch machine includes a forming tube having a cross section area of CA is disclosed. A film tube is continuously formed about the forming tube and fed downward. A horizontal sealing assembly includes at least one pair of opposing sealing bars that make horizontal seals on the film, thereby forming pouches. The horizontal seals are formed in a horizontal sealing zone, and the vertical distance from a lower end of the forming tube to the center of the horizontal sealing zone is a transition distance that is (in inches) preferably no more than 0.5 multiplied by the cross-section area (in sq inches).Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2006Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Assignee: CMD CorporationInventors: Curt Frievalt, Brian E. Kettner
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Patent number: 7406810Abstract: A method of fabricating reclosable bags comprising: disposing a releasably engaged closure between a first and a second bag film portions, the closure including a loop-engageable fastener strip comprising an array of loop-engageable fastener elements integrally molded with a sheet-form resin substrate, and a loop strip comprising a plurality of loops carried on a sheet-form resin base; and applying energy to bond the resin substrate of the loop-engageable fastener strip to the first bag film portion and to bond the resin base of the loop strip to the second bag film portion; wherein the loop-engageable fastener strip is not bonded to the loop strip when the energy is applied.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2005Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: Velcro Industries B.V.Inventors: William P. Clune, William H. Shepard, George A. Provost
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Patent number: 7399262Abstract: A method for the manufacture of packaging bags, which includes a step of forming at least one bag in a scrolling film, welding opening and closing zippers that include a series of operating sliders onto the scrolling film, and effecting at least one cut in the zippers, where the length of the cut is greater than the length of each slider.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2006Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: S2F FlexicoInventor: Antony Roger
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Patent number: 7351188Abstract: A reclosable package comprising a hooded zipper with a pair of off-center lines of perforations that are hermetically sealed by a layer of material. The lines of perforations facilitate tearing off the hood to gain access to the zipper. One method of manufacture involves joining the hooded zipper to respective web portions formed by folding a web and then slitting the folded web in two. Another method of manufacture involves joining the hooded zipper to respective web portions formed by slitting a web in two and then orienting the two web portions into mutually confronting positions. The package may be constructed to have a wicket flap.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2004Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventors: Stephen P. Schaller, Eric Paul Plourde
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Patent number: 7340870Abstract: A method for manufacturing double ply packaging bags includes feeding a first packaging web, the first packaging web including a window patch that is cut out or pre-cut, feeding a second packaging web, the second packaging web including another window patch that is cut out or pre-cut, applying a fastener assembly to a fed-through packaging web, perpendicular to a window patch, attaching the fastener assembly to the packaging web, attaching the two packaging webs to each other to form a double ply web, and forming a double ply packaging bag with the double ply web. The double ply packaging bag has a front wall and a back wall, where the front wall and the back wall are each formed by the double ply web.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2003Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Assignee: S2F FlexicoInventor: Anthony Roger
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Patent number: 7341085Abstract: A station for the application of segments of openable/reclosable strip on a plastic film web destined to form bags, includes a device for sealing segments of strip at intervals on the film and a device for punching predefined zones of film. The punching device and the sealing device are positioned in the station along the film path to act in sequence in the same zone for punching the film and sealing the segments in the predefined points of the film keeping the film stationary between the film punching operation and the corresponding operation for sealing a segment on the film.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2005Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Assignee: Ilapak Research & Development S.A.Inventor: Valter Tinivella
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Patent number: 7338424Abstract: A horizontal packaging machine (10) for making fluid-tight packages (11) equipped with zip closure (15) comprises: at least one unit (12) for unwinding a film (13) of synthetic material for packaging a series of products (18); at least one unit (14) for unreeling a pair of tapes (15) to form a zip closure; a shaping tunnel (16) located downstream of the film (13) unreeling unit (12); a sealing unit (20) located downstream of the shaping tunnel (16); Downstream of the sealing unit (20), the machine comprises a power-driven film feed roller (21) designed to apply a uniform pulling force on the film (13) which is unwound and fed into the sealing unit (20).Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2003Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: BG Pack S.p.a.Inventor: Mario Latronico
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Patent number: 7331160Abstract: A method of forming and sealing a flexible, reclosable package having a zipper closure and a slider mounted thereon. The reclosable package is initially formed having a pair of opposing side panels and a zipper closure extending between the pair of side panels. The zipper closure is initially attached to the side panels only along a pair of spaced side seals. The reclosable package is filled with product through a fill opening created between the zipper closure and either one of the side panels. Once the package is filled with product, the attachment flanges of the zipper closure are sealed to both of the side panels. Thus, the zipper closure is sealed to the side panels only after product has been inserted into the product package.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2004Date of Patent: February 19, 2008Assignee: Reynolds Consumer Products, Inc.Inventor: Greg W. Melchoir
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Patent number: RE40284Abstract: 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: November 1, 2006Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: Pactiv CorporationInventors: Toby R. Thomas, Samuel D. Aversa, John D. Athans