BR102016024067A2 - FLEXIBLE PACKAGING WITH A CROSS ACCESS PANEL DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

flexible package with a transverse access panel device a flexible package, generally including a front portion of the panel, a rear panel portion, a first side panel portion, and at least one access device. the flexible package may further include a second side panel portion, a lower panel portion, and an upper panel portion. furthermore, one or more of the portions may be molded and / or manufactured substantially as a reinforcement. each of the panel portions comprises two longitudinal sides or edges. the device access may be attached to at least one surface of at least one of the side panel portions such that the device is in orientation transverse to the longitudinal sides. The device may be manually connected to the side portions, or connected with existing and / or specially designed manufacturing machinery. Attachment of the access device to one side of the package is accomplished using bonding techniques, adhesives, heat and the like.

Description

(54) Title: FLEXIBLE PACKAGING WITH A TRANSVERSE ACCESS PANEL DEVICE (51) Int. Cl .: B65D 33/20 (73) Owner (s): ITW DO BRASIL INDL E COML LTDA - ZIPPAK BRASIL (72) Inventor ( es): NEWTON AKIRA ISAWA (74) Attorney (s): DANIEL ADVOGADOS (57) Summary: FLEXIBLE PACKAGING WITH A TRANSVERSE ACCESS PANEL DEVICE A flexible packaging, usually including a front portion of the panel, a portion of the rear panel, a first side panel portion, and at least one access device. The flexible package may further include a second side panel portion, a lower panel portion, and an upper panel portion. In addition, one or more of the portions can be shaped and / or manufactured substantially as a reinforcement. Each of the panel portions comprises two longitudinal sides or edges. The device access can be connected to at least one surface of at least one of the side panel portions so that the device is in transverse orientation to the longitudinal sides. The device can be connected manually to the side portions, or connected with the existing manufacturing machinery and / or specially designed. The fixing of the access device to a lateral part of the packaging is achieved using techniques of

1/30 “FLEXIBLE PACKAGING WITH A TRANSVERSE ACCESS PANEL DEVICE”

RELATED APPLICATIONS [001] The claimant here claims the benefit of content and filing date granted to the provisional patent application filed on March 26, 2002, entitled Flexible Package With A Transverse Refeasable Device and assigned Series No. 60 / 368.121 and application for US provisional patent filed April 11, 2002, entitled Flexible Package With A Transverse Re-Closable Device and assigned Series No. 60 / 372,709, with both said applications being incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF INVENTION [002] The present invention relates generally to flexible packaging and, more particularly, to flexible packaging, and methods for the manufacture and use of packaging, with a device for accessing the side panel integrated in, and in a transversal to the longitudinal axis, a side panel of the packaging.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [003] Reinforcement type packaging made of sheet materials is commonly used in many fields to store food, chemicals, liquids, and a multitude of other materials. In addition, the junction elements are used in side portions and / or at the end of the packaging to provide spatial flexibility on the packaging surface, thus facilitating the expansion and contraction of the internal volume of the packaging. When the packages are empty they occupy a minimum volume, and as they are filled the internal volume expands to a maximum volume level, depending on the size of the packages and the corresponding flap (s). Consequently, reinforcement packages are able to maximize material storage and handling in a complete state, while still having beneficial contraction properties that facilitate storage,

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2/30 handling, transport and disposal in a substantially empty state.

[004] Conventional reinforcement packs use side portions and / or bottom end portions of the package so that the openings, such as a resealable device, can be integrated into the top end portion of the package. This configuration allows the benefits of the flap features and provides an access opening for filling and emptying material contents. Pat USA. We. 4,913,561, 5,692,837 and 6,186,663 disclose such packaging. The innate disadvantage of this type of packaging lies in the measurable reduction in material participation resulting from the place of creation and the opening of resealable access. The zipper-type openings only serve to close the top of the package, pulling together the top portions of the front and rear panels. This closure technique significantly reduces the internal retention volume of the package since, in a closed position, the side reinforcements are forced to contact at the end close to the access opening.

[005] U.S. Pat. No. 5,788,378 discloses an attempt to accommodate for this reduction in internal volume by adding a relatively rigid triangular fin assembly that extends upwardly away from the packaging panels and the integrated ribs. This fin mount includes a resealable zipper opening. Such a configuration allows full use of the internal volume provided by the packaging reinforcement parts. However, this type of reinforcement packaging only introduces different problems. First, the fin assembly introduces complexity in the manufacture and use of the product. Second, the fin assembly adds considerable mass to the packaging that is detrimental to storage, handling, transportation and disposal.

[006] Pat USA. No. 5,461,845, 5,782,733, and 5,954,433 reveal attempts to reduce the reduction in internal volume discussed, which occurs when an open 7/61

3/30 resealable ra is achieved by joining at least two flexible packaging panels. These patents are directed to resealable access openings that allow access inside and outside the internal cavity of the package through the unreinforced front or rear panels. As a result, the capacity of the internal volume of the package is not substantially reduced by joining two panels, thus avoiding many of the problems associated with the resulting measurable collapse of the side reinforcements. However, these patents are limited to the use of these single panel access devices in front or rear panel portions. When access devices are limited to front and rear panel portions of packaging, manufacturing flexibility and convenience of use are greatly sacrificed. The location for the handles, the size of the resealable device, and a multitude of other packaging characteristics, designs and methods are negatively affected by the limited integration options of the resealable devices.

[007] In addition, spill efficiency and convenience is sacrificed. Typically, the front and rear panels are understood to be larger than the side panels, with most resealable devices being some measurably smaller in size than the width of these front and rear panels. As a result, there are generally significant spaces between the edges of these front and rear panels and the ends of the resealable device. This wasted space is the main cause of leakage inefficiency. It is difficult to guide the content material efficiently through the resealable device. Inevitably, the contents will be channeled to the inner packaging area from above, below and to the sides of the resealable device that such vigorous and tilting agitation are necessary to obtain the flow of material correctly directed through the resealable device.

[008] As a result, there is a need for flexible packaging

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4/30 that substantially solves the problems mentioned above present themselves with conventional packaging models, configurations and manufacturing methods.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [009] The present invention solves many of the problems that plague conventional flexible packaging and packaging methods. Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a flexible package that can include a front panel portion, a rear panel portion, a first side panel portion, and at least the access device. The flexible package may further include a second side panel, a lower panel portion, and an upper panel portion. In addition, one or more of the portions can be shaped and / or manufactured substantially as a reinforcement. Each of the panel portions comprises two longitudinal sides or edges. These reinforcement panels that incorporate features even include a line of longitudinal reinforcement for expansion and selective measurable retraction of the longitudinal sides in relation to each other. This expansion / selective collection allows the adjustment of the flap surface area and, consequently, a corresponding change in the internal volume of the internal cavity of the flexible packaging.

[010] The access device can be integrated along the surface of at least one of the side panel portions so that the device is in the transverse orientation to the longitudinal sides. Preferably, the access device is a retractable access device, but can include a single use access device. In a vertical package, side panels are generally defined as panels with a distance measure B between the longitudinal sides being some distance shorter than the distance a between the longitudinal sides on adjacent front / integrated and / or panels rear. It should be noted that any of the panels can be marked with graphic marks, but this is not necessary. Brands can also be used

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5/30 in the alignment of the various panels of the registration package during manufacturing and / or training.

[011] The refillable device can be connected manually or through the sides, or connected with the existing manufacturing machinery and / or specially designed. Attachment or integration of the retractable access device for at least a side portion of the package can be achieved using heat sealing / bonding techniques, adhesives, and other known techniques. In addition, the present invention can be directed towards the integration of a transversal reclosable device for the manufacturing / machining direction or longitudinal side edges of a side panel, reinforced or not reinforced.

[012] Various embodiments of the present invention substantially eliminate limitations of conventional flexible packaging on options for fixing and using internal volume. The present invention allows for the manufacture of a package in which a resealable access opening is integrated into the package, without significantly reducing the capacity for fixing available packaging material. The present invention does not require the opening and closing of the terminal portions of the packaging panels which will limit the volumetric capacity. Instead, a reclosable access opening can be integrated into at least one of the side panels, reinforced or non-reinforced. The access opening is attached / integrated to the panel, consequently, transforming said panel into an access panel, where the opening may be some measurable size smaller in length than the distance a between the longitudinal edges of the access panel, and in perpendicular / orientation in the direction transversal to the edges. The sizing option for the access opening reduces material and manufacturing costs. Resealable access devices in accordance with the present access allow in and out of the internal cavity of the package through the access panel, thus avoiding the inherent problems associated with these packages

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Conventional 6/30 that require the adhesion or interlocking of two or more panel portions, that is, the front and rear panels.

[013] In addition, the resealable access device can serve as an efficient and preferred pouring nozzle for conveniently discharging material from the package without changing the volumetric capacity of the package. The access device can be positioned in a predetermined location on the access panel portion according to the particular needs of the manufacturer and / or the end user. This positioning flexibility in turn increases the configuration and design options for the packaging. For example, the handles and features can be attached or integrated into the packaging without interfering with the function and use of the retractable access device. In addition, a resealable device selectively located on one or both side panel portions substantially increases the efficiency of pouring or discharging material out of the package. With such an integrated access device, the material is channeled to the side access panel, instead of the traditionally larger front or rear panel portions. This provides much better control over the direction and speed of the material coming out, as well as significant control over the amount of material to be poured. In addition, since the resealable device is generally a substantial expense in the manufacture of flexible packaging, the integration of a measurably smaller device into the typically smaller side panel increases convenience, efficiency, and saves costs.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible package that has a resealable device and integrated detachable transverse seal in accordance with the present invention.

[015] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pack11 / 61

7/30 flexible seal which has a transverse integrated open reusable device according to the present invention.

[016] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible package that has an integrated transverse resealable device and tear notches in accordance with the present invention.

[017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible package that has a retractable, open, transverse integrated device in accordance with the present invention.

[018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible package that has an open, resealable integrated transverse device in accordance with the present invention.

[019] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible package that has an open, resealable integrated transverse device in accordance with the present invention.

[020] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible package that has a retractable, open, integrated transverse device according to the present invention.

[021] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a flexible package having an unsealed top opening according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[022] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a flexible package having an unsealed top opening according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[023] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible package that has an open, resealable integrated transverse device in accordance with the present invention.

[024] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an em12 / 61 modality

8/30 flexible baggage which has an integrated open cross-sectionable device according to the present invention.

[025] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible package that has a retractable open transverse integrated device in accordance with the present invention.

[026] FIG. 13 shows in particular manufacturing steps to form a flexible package according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[027] FIG. 14 is a sectional view A-A of FIG. 13.

[028] FIG. 15 is a view of the section B-B of FIG. 13.

[029] FIG. 16 shows in particular manufacturing steps to form a flexible package according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[030] FIG. 17 is a sectional view BB-BB from FIG. 16.

[031] FIG. 18 is a sectional view C-C of FIG. 16.

[032] FIG. 19 shows in particular manufacturing steps to form a flexible package according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[033] FIG. 20 is a front view of a retractable access device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[034] FIG. 21 is a side view of a retractable access device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[035] FIG. 22 is a side view of a retractable access device being connected / integrated to a side panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[036] FIG. 23 is a side view of a retractable access device being connected / integrated to a side panel, the rear panel, and the front panel according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[037] FIG. 24 is a side view of a retractable access device with an intermediate barrier being connected / integrated to a side panel according

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9/30 with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [038] Referring to Figs. 1-24, a flexible package 10 and the components and configurations in accordance with embodiments of the present invention are shown. Package 10 generally includes a front panel portion 12, a rear panel portion 14, a first side panel portion 16, and an access device 24. In addition, package 10 may include a second side panel portion 18, an upper panel portion 20, and a lower panel portion 22. The joining and / or elaboration of the above-mentioned panels (as will be discussed in more detail in this document) defines the package 10 with an internal cavity 25, which has an adjustable internal volume capacity. Panels 12-22 are often referred to as nets. Each panel can be formed from a particular network or, alternatively, each of the panels can be portions of a single larger network, where the large network is folded, cut and / or shaped to define the individual portions of the panel and, ultimately, the shape and size of the package 10. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the top 20 and bottom 22 panels can be formed by the selective adhesion of the respective end portions of the panels 12, 14 of some shape sizes measurably longer than panels 16, 18 to provide the material necessary to bend to form said panel 20, 22. Regardless of forming techniques or the use of separate mesh panels, a designated panel portion is defined for each panel .

[039] In a flexible packaging in the vertical position 10, the side panels

16, 18 are generally defined as panels with a distance measure B between the longitudinal sides being some distance shorter than the distance a between the longitudinal sides in adjacent front 12 and / or rear panels 14. As such, these panels sides 16, 18 are comparatively smaller in width

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10/30 than panels 12, 14 to provide for the narrowest and most efficient channel for routing outgoing material carried out within the internal cavity 25, as described herein.

[040] With reference mainly to FIGS. 1-12, packaging panel portions 12-22 are generally constructed of flexible sheet material, such as polyethylene, polyester, sheet metal, polypropylene, polyethylene or laminated with other materials, such as nylon, polyester, and as movies. In order to provide better barrier properties, modalities may use composite layers of said materials and the like material. Generally, in such mixed embodiments, a material having preferred sealing characteristics can be joined, bonded or laminated to a material with a different characteristic (i.e., beneficial oxygen barrier properties). Regardless, loose sheets, composites / laminates, and a multitude of other materials and know-how techniques for a person skilled in the art can be implemented based on certain needs of use and manufacturing without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[041] The first side panel 16, second side panel 18, top panel 20, and bottom 22 can be reinforced. Likewise, the package 10 can be formed from unreinforced panels, or selective reinforcement. A reinforced portion is generally indicated by a subscript g. For example, a first side reinforcement portion will be indicated by 16g, a second side reinforcement portion will be indicated by 18g, and so on, to define reinforcement panels Ng, where N is the reference number assigned to a portion of particular panel of the package 10. Each center reinforcement panel portion generally includes a center line 26 (FIG. 1), where the center line 26 is generally a longitudinal reference line, and not necessarily, which denotes a line of real fold over the panels (ie imaginary).

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11/30 [042] It is possible that in alternative modalities to provide for a central fold line 26 on the panels, which would provide for a collapsible expansion and reinforcement line, as best shown in Figs. 8, 16 and 19, or a reinforcement line folded in proximity to one side, as best shown in FIG. 8. The center line 26 runs substantially parallel to the two sides or edges of the panels, where the side panels 16, 18 include the longitudinal edges of the side panel 30 and the front and rear panels 12, 14 include longitudinal edges of the front panel / rear 32. After manufacturing achievements with the folding centerline 26, the centerline 26 will typically be the point or line at which the reinforcement panels will contract or expand, facilitating efficient storage, transportation and handling. As the material content is added to the inner cavity 25 of the package 10, the reinforcement panel (s) expands outwardly away from the center line 26 at a maximum volume level corresponding to the cavity 25. This maximum volume capacity is dependent on the size of the package 10, the flexibility of the panel materials, the size of the corresponding flap, and similar factors.

[043] The access device 24 is preferably a retractable device that is arranged on or integrated with at least one of the side panel portions, reinforced or not reinforced, and capable of multiple retractable uses. Alternative embodiment of the access device 24 can be a single use or minimal access device. For example, a detachable seal, as described herein, can be included without such a zipper engagement part, where refurbishment is not desirable or necessary.

[044] FIGS. 20-24 show several exemplary resealable zipper devices 24. In general, these zipper devices 24 include a first interlocking portion 44 and a second interlocking portion 45. Each latching portion 44, 45 may further include fixing tabs corresponding to a

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12/30 selected portion of the inner wall of the flexible package 10. The first interlocking part 44 may include a front flange 46 and the second engaging part 45 may include a rear flange 47. In one embodiment, the front flange 46 is sealed to the interior wall of at least one of the side panels 16, 18 and the rear flange 47 extends beyond that sealable location for sealed connection to the same side panel some higher distance, as shown in FIGS. 23-24.

[045] The integration of the access device 24 in a side panel provides a substantial advantage over conventional packaging since a device 24 can be connected in a transverse relationship to the longitudinal edges (and the general machining line / center 26) of the panel. Refillable devices 24 are devices known to a person skilled in the art to provide entry into flexible foil packs. Although sealing devices are often described here for demonstrative purposes, resealable adhesives / tapes, pressure or screw of the buffer device, hook fixing fitting, and the locking latch (Velcro ®), an articulated mouthpiece, and the other as techniques and devices known to a person skilled in the art can be employed for use as the retractable access device 24. For example, Pat. No. 4,909,017, 5,972,396, 5,461,845, 5,672,009, 5,782,733, 5,902,047, 5,954,433, and 6,177,172 are aimed at exemplary devices, some resealable, and other flexible packaging features and techniques, and are therefore incorporated herein by reference. Conventional release seals known to a person skilled in the art can also be implemented in conjunction with access devices 24. Release seals can provide oxygen, moisture, and as a protective barrier, providing joining of the measurable inner surface of the flaps 46, 47 such that moving away from the access panel, that is, to a pull tab 27, separates the flanges 46, 47 to expose the device, that is, the locking portions

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13/30

44.45. This can be guaranteed, especially if the flanges 46, 47 are made of a flexible packaging material, which does not innate promote such protective barrier properties. Alternatively, or in addition to a peelable seal, flanges 46, 47 and other components of device 24 can be constructed of various materials or laminates of materials that guarantee high barrier power protection. For example, polyvinylidene chloride, ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, and films or laminates, as can be used in the formation of these device components 24, as such, the materials that provide greater barrier protection. It is preferred that the access device 24 is connected in such a way that the device 24 is perpendicular / transversal to the direction of the central line 26. With respect to the zipper devices 24, in particular, modalities may use pressure sealing, sealing by slide, and similar devices. An example of a slidable sealable closure device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,327,837, and is hereby incorporated by reference. The retractable access device 24 can have a distance length less than the width of the side panel to which it is attached, or it can substantially run the entire distance between the edge panel 30 (as preferred in those devices 24 to be integrated into the panels) side reinforcement).

[046] In preferred embodiments, the retractable access device 24 is connected to at least one of the side panels 16, 18 (reinforced or unreinforced) such that the device 24 serves as a pouring nozzle out of the side panel relatively smaller compared to the front 12 and rear 14 panels. It should be noted that panels 16 and 18 are both adaptable for transformation into an access panel and, consequently, are alternately referred to as such in this document. The fixing / integration position of the device 24 on the side panels can be achieved manually or by production to any predetermined location on a panel. One modality will integrate the device

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14/30 of access 24 to the region 16.16g of the side panels, 18.18g close to the top panel 20, as shown in FIGS. 1-12. Other embodiments will integrate the device 24 over a portion of the panel in the vicinity of the bottom of the panel 22. Furthermore, it is envisaged that any of the panels of N, Ng, or a plurality thereof, may be equipped with the retractable device transverse 24. This flexibility in positioning the device 24 on a side panel 16, 18, and even along the surface of said particular panel, is made substantially possible by the single panel access feature of the device 24. That is, the access to cavity 25 is allowed through side access panel 16, 18 instead of releasing and joining two adjacent panels under conventional practice. In addition, flexibility is promoted by the inherent adaptability derived from the transverse positioning of the device 24 in relation to the longitudinal edges 30 of the access panel 16, 18.

[047] There are several methods for making a package 10 according to the present invention. In one method, a predetermined length of device 24 is connected transversely / integrated to the network or panel portion of heat sealing material, adhesive glue, and the like. Device 24 can be sealed to the panel. The zipper can be placed in a predetermined position as described. This can be done manually or with the aid of a system, such as the machines and apparatus and methods described and incorporated herein.

Connection / Integration Access Device [048] Regarding the manufacture of the fixture or the machine, the access device 24 can be connected within a process other than a multi-use “bag” machine on a separate machine, or in a phase or modified reconfigured within any of these machines. A commonly known machine manufactured by Hudson the Sharp Machine Company to integrate technology

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15/30 patented Inno-Lok, incorporated here, can be used. The apparatus and methods disclosed in the U.S. Patent. No. 6,019,512 and 6,516,850, therefore, are incorporated herein by reference. In addition, other machines consistent with what is described here, and technologies for fixing such resealable devices to flexible packaging sheets or blankets are also envisaged. For example, methods for connecting and employing resealable devices and detachable sealing technologies are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,050,736, 5,806,984, 5,829,884, 6,019,512, 6,044,621,6,115,892, 6,224,262, and 6,270,257, and are accordingly hereby incorporated by reference.

[049] It should be noted that the device 24 can be integrated with a network to be used in a single network 60 manufacturing process of packaging 10 (as processed in the manufacture of FIGS. 13-19), or in one or more nets to be used in a multi-network process (ie, 2 or more distinct networks joined together to form a single package 10). Although the processes of the specifics are described in the incorporated references, in general, the material band is placed on an unrolling section of a machine and pulled through the machine by a series of stretch rollers along the machine to perform the following general steps .

[050] A region of mesh material 60 is perforated in a shape and size to allow further access to access device 24, perforation 49. A coil or series of devices 24 is placed in a separate unwinding section of the machine and are preferably pre-crushed in the crush region 48 (FIG. 20), where the zipper will later be cut. Premium is made to close the opening of the zipper, in order to avoid the unwanted rupture of the connected film, when the user then pulls open the device 24 during ordinary use.

[051] After device 24 has been pre-ground, it is then fed

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16/30 into the machine, perpendicularly / transverse to the direction of the net or longitudinal axis of the edges of the net and central 26, for the web of material 60. The device 24 can then be fed into a vacuum station where the desired closing length can be cut from the continuous coil. The vacuum station will then rotate (usually about ninety degrees in increments) so that device 24 is placed directly under the web of material 60, where it will be applied or integrated into a pre-defined region of the web material. network 60, that is, the portion that will later be shaped to define the side access panel 16.

[052] Next, a sealing head / device will generally be lowered and sealing the panel / mesh region in the vicinity of the perforation 49 to the device 24. The mesh material 60, with the integrated locking device 24 in the predefined locations of the The panel is then pulled through the rest of the machine and rolled back on itself with the zippers preferably attached to each perforated section 49 of the material. The perforation 49 provides easy access to the product through the internal cavity 25 of the package 10. As described in the incorporated references, previous processes may have included a shell seal to keep moisture and oxygen from reaching the product through the perforation sections 49 of the mesh material, and through the zipper profile. The roll of mesh material 60 with the integrated device series 24 can then be placed in an initial feeding section of a packaging machine for further fabrication and packaging 10.

Formation of Packages with transversal access device on the side panel [053] The formation of packaging 10 can be obtained by means of selective folding and molding of a single large network or the connection or union of up to six individual networks (one for each of the six parts of the panel). In addition, a combi21 / 61

17/30 nation of them is envisioned. For example, a side panel 16.16g, 18.18g can be bands or individual sheets, while the other panels 12-22g can be in the form of a net or larger sheet. These examples are illustrative only and various combinations can be implemented without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[054] In a preferred embodiment, a package 10 is constructed or in the form of a single network 60 of flexible material wrapped in a roll, wherein a plurality of access devices 24 are spaced and integrated along the predefined part of the network 60, with the variety of processing steps being represented in FIGS. 13-19. It should be noted that the various rollers and other feeding mechanisms and processing devices / techniques commonly known to a person skilled in the art are not necessarily shown in the figures, to allow the Applicant to better show the specific manufacturing processes performed for create the transversely integrated devices 24 and packaging according to the modalities of the present invention.

[055] As shown in FIG. 13, flap 60 is attached to the back of a packaging machine or packaging in an initial input roller station 64. The single flap 60 is pulled through a machine and the panels of N, Ng are formed as passes through an arrangement or series of plates, rollers and other manufacturing stations and devices. The shapes and sizes of the desired panels are determined by these specifically configured stations. Various packaging machines or flexible bags known to a person skilled in the art can be used and / or modified to create the package 10 with the resealable access device of the lateral side panel 24. For example, one embodiment can use a filling and sealing form of the machine (FFS). Examples of FFS machines known to a person skilled in the art are horizontal FFS, vertical FFS, and the like. The advantage of FFS machines for particular applications is that the

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18/30 packaging or bag 10 is formed, filled with the material content inside the cavity 25, and sealed in one system. The use of another bag, non-FFS, machines or systems are also employed for forming packaging 10 of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope described herein.

[056] First, the main single mesh material 60 is unwound from the input station roller 64 and fed along a general direction of the mesh / machining for communication with a bending station 66, as shown in FIG. 13. The folding station 66 is generally designed to bring the sealing layers (i.e., an interior laminate surface) of the fabric 60 in contact with each other for forming and sealing at the end of the forming process. The folding station 66 may include angled supports 68 positioned to initiate a major fold 61 of the mesh material 60 back on itself at a timid distance from a complete overlapping fold such that an unfolded region defining the side access 16 (with integrated device 24) is exposed. Various folding devices, techniques and processes known to a person skilled in the art are envisaged for use in this initial folding stage 66. In one embodiment, material 60 can be cut or cut along fold 61 so that material 60 is divided in two distinct band portions that lay on top of each other during the remaining manufacturing / forming processes.

[057] Next, the folded web material 60 continues to an edge fold station 70. The edge fold station 70 can include a first parallel support 72 and a second parallel support 74, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 15. Each of the supports 72, 74 are perpendicularly aligned with the plane of the net material 60 and machining or direction of execution of the net. As the relatively large bent portion of the material 60, as defined and divided by main fold 61 reaches the fold edge station 70, the first bracket 72 initiates a small fold edge 62 (i.e., about ^1/2 distance B) of the material

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19/30 back on itself, where the edge fold 62 is formed and maintained by the second support 74. This edge formation is made possible by the spacing of the second support plate 74 at a measurable distance from above and laterally to the first support 72 , as best shown in FIG. 15. It should be noted that spatial exaggerations are provided in the figures for illustrative purposes, which includes figs. 15 and 22-24. As the fold edge 62 crosses the space defined by the opposing supports 72, 74, the material 60 proceeds to a separation phase 76. The small fold edge 62 is provided to selectively position or orient the sealing layer of the mesh again where a further sealing step can be carried out to join the panel portions and / or form the package 10. In at least one embodiment, the small edge fold 62 and corresponding process form a reinforced line 28 in the material network 60, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 18. Unlike a side panel reinforcement, this flap line will be formed on any of the panels 12, 14, depending on the orientation of the mesh 60 inside the machine. As such, a 12g or 14g reinforcement panel can be included, as shown in FIG. 8. This alternative reinforced line 18 is close to the edge 32 of the front or rear panel (14g rear panel in FIG. 8) which is in turn, in the vicinity of the access panel with the integrated device 24. Again, such a reinforcement panel 12g or 14g can provide expansion options for packaging 10 are not available with conventional packaging.

[058] In the separation phase 76, as shown in FIG. 16, a cutting / splicing device 78, such as a razor blade, is positioned to contact and cut the side unfolded access panel 16 from the main mesh 60. At this point in the forming process, the access panel separate side 16 is directed away from the main network material 60 and into a turning station 80. The turn station 80 is usually adapted and positioned to turn side panel 16 (with integrated device 24) from above or upside down in

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20/30 with respect to its original operating position in the vertical position to reposition the sealing surface or panel layer 16 on its edges 30 of posterior sealing processes. In addition, the turn station 80 is positionally adapted and shaped to direct the side panel now 16 back to the machining direction of the main material of the network 60 after the turning step is completed. If signs are used to register or align the panels, an adjustable roller and registration system known to a person skilled in the art can be employed so that timing adjustment and travel distance to the side panel turned 16 back to the Main web 60 is related to corresponding and alignable signs on the web page 60. Separating and transforming the access panel 16 allows for the proper formation of a lateral dispensing package 10 without the need for often unwanted folding of the access panel 16. This , in turn, protects the reclosable device 24, in which the conventional folding of side panels during formation would be problematic for the reclosable transversal side panel device of the present invention.

[059] Although the side panel 16 is being delivered to the turning station 80, the main network material 60 can be directed through a reinforcement station 82, as shown in FIGS. 16-18. First, a part of the main web 60 in the vicinity of the main fold 61 can be drilled by the drilling device 63 to create a plurality of spaced holes 65 along the end of the main web. These holes 65 bring the inner sealing materials / layers of the front 12 and the rear 14 panels in contact in such a way that the material in contact with the holes 65 can then be sealed together by a heated sealing bar, usually the seal the application of one, handle by the accessory station 100. Such a drilling process will keep the portion folded around the holes 65 together, preferably near the top of the package 10, for a sealing station later . As modalida25 / 61

21/30 des that do not implement the punching process to include the orifices 65 are provided when the upper portions of the panels 12, 14 are not being joined for a loop or other reasons.

[060] After such a puncture process, in the flap station 82, a main portion of the mesh material 60 which define the second side panel 18 can be reinforced to form panel 18g. This reinforcement feature is generally achieved using an opening bracket 84 and a compression device 88. The opening of the holder 84 can include a v-shaped end portion 86. The compression device 88 can include a generally conical shaped portion 90 and sized to engage by inserting the 86 shaped end portion of the opening bracket 84.

[061] Referring first to fig. 17, the opening support 84 is generally inserted into the folded tissue material 60 from the distal accessible portion of the main fold 61 such that the V-shaped end portion 86 is brought into support contact with the inner portion of the fold 61. At this point, the compression device 88 can be brought into engagement with the v-shaped end portion 86. Since the end portion 86 is positioned within the mesh material 60 and the snugging device 88 is out of bend 61, coupling the tapered portion inward 90 creates the reinforcement and reinforcement line 28 in accordance with the shape and size of the v-shaped end portion 86. This addition of flap to the side panel 18g will also generally bring the holes 65 inwardly towards the flap line 28, thus allowing for the concealment of the holes 65, when the corresponding surfaces of the panels 12, 14 in the vicinity of holes 65 are then sealed.

[062] Then, the edges of the mesh material 60 and the respective edges of the side panel 16 are joined and joined to a sealing station 92. Once again, hot sealing, adhesive bonding, and how to join techniques and med26 / 61

22/30 all are predicted. For example, FIG. 19 demonstrates several longitudinal hot-sealing bars 94 in alignment and positioning to seal the side panel 16 to the main mesh 60 and / or to seal the corners of the side reinforcement panel 18g. The longitudinal sealing bars 94 are in line with the machining / network direction of the system. In low contact of the bars 94 against the respective portion of the net 60 or on the side of the panel 16 a, designating longitudinal loops and seams are created. In addition, station 92 may include devices such as known or conventional cutters or blades for trimming excess material from the edge panels of the package 10. This cutout is often used by those skilled in the art to accommodate inaccuracies in trimming alignment panel portions were joined during the formation of flexible packaging. To adhere and seal the bottom of the package 10 and to finish other transverse seals, after the use of the longitudinal sealing bars 94, a transverse bottom sealing station 96 is implemented.

[063] The transverse sealing station 96 generally includes at least one transverse sealing bar 98 perpendicularly aligned with respect to the machining direction and longitudinal plane of the network 60. The transverse bars 98 and techniques known to those skilled in the art to provide k-seals sealing lines, straight seals, and other connection configurations such as for flexible packaging can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, intermediate connection techniques, heat plates / protective materials, and other known methods can be implemented, as well as during the connection and joining of the various N, Ng panels. After the completion of sealing or connection of the acceptable bottom portion of the package 10, a cooling bar 113 can be placed in contact with the regions previously heated to decrease the temperature in said connections. After cooling a designated part of the fabric 60, the design stations for additional accessories and packaging, such as

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23/30 notch stations 114, ventilation stations, bore valve stations, and other stations known to a person skilled in the art can be employed.

[064] As shown in Figs. 1-5, an identifier can be included which provides greater stability and strength to a portion of the distal package 10 of the access panel 16 with the access device 24. In an embodiment with the handle integrated in the top portion of the package 10 distal access panel 16, the area around the handle 34 provides sealing of four layers of bonded flexible material. Specifically, side panel 18g and front panel 12 and rear panel 14 around handle opening 34 are joined. Fold into the upper portion of the side panel 18 g in the reinforcement line 28, as shown in FIG. 8, provides two attachable sections of panel 18g. An interior surface of the rear panel 14 is attachable to an interior surface of a proximal section of the side panel 18 g, while an internal surface of the other section of the 18g panel is attachable to an interior surface close to the front panel 12. Joining these surfaces of the described strip provides a 4-layer bonding material in which it will integrate the opening handle 34. This process significantly meets the needs of the industry, reducing material and manufacturing costs. Costs are reduced as the conventional method is avoided. The conventional method of reinforcing the space around the handles is selectively to form the package with at least one additional layer of material around the area designated for the identifier. Such a technique is laborious and requires additional fabrication to access the material for such a limited purpose. The present invention innately provides for this reinforced region around the handle 34 in the reinforcement panel 18g distal from the access panel 16.

[065] In these modalities, including a valve system, a one-way valve can be integrated that allows the evacuation of gases, without leaving the air potentially harmful to the package 10. Various valve devices and

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24/30 methods understood by a person skilled in the art for controlling air and gas flow in and out of the flexible package can be employed. For example, Pat USA. No. 5,059,036, 5,147,272, 6,023,914, and 6,021,624 describe various packaging valves and, consequently, are incorporated herein by reference. In addition, there are several other methods known to a person skilled in the art for integrating a valve into a package that can also be employed. In addition, several other air elimination or evacuation techniques, that is, using the channels and / or bags specifically configured and sized inside the package 10 to control the fluid communication between the inner cavity 25 and the outside environment, can be implemented without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[066] Since the package is sealed and formed by the steps and stations of a particular manufacturing step, a cutting section 110 is generally required. At the cutting station 110, a cutting device 112, such as a blade or knife, cuts the now formed (but retracted) package 10 of the larger network of 60. Various techniques for packaging in flexible sheet and reinforcing materials, devices, and methods understood by a person skilled in the art can be employed to form the package 10 from a large single network of material without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. A key feature of this preferred single network process is that the package can be manufactured without bending the side panel 16, or 18, designed to integrate the resealable device 24. It should also be noted that this unique web process can easily be modified in one shaping process that joins two distinct bands. In such an alternative embodiment, the side access panel 16 is fed into the machine separately instead of being cut from the larger web 60 at the separation station 76.

[067] In another modality and the process, a plurality of networks

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25/30 are used to define panels 12-22, and finally packaging 10. For example, separate networks of material can be fed through the machine to the front panel 12 and the rear panel 14. In addition, two individual bands of material can be fed through the machine to the side panels, 16g reinforcement, 18g or not reinforced 16,18. In addition, other separate networks can be used to form lower panel 22 and upper panel 20, and even top panel 20g and bottom 22g of reinforcement.

[068] When using a plurality of bands of material, each of the panels 12, 14, 20, 22 (either as one or multiple nets) will generally be fed directly to the machine from an unwinding section of the machine, and the side panels 16, 16g, 18.18g will come from another point of unwinding, where they can be folded longitudinally in half and placed between the front and rear panels 14. However, if a fold is not desired, the station the folding edge described herein can be implemented to join the panels N, Ng having the device 24. Once again, the access device 24 has already been integrated into at least one of the panels 16, 18.

[069] Next, each of the plurality of networks will typically be sealed together by at least two sets of positioned sealing mechanisms, such as lock bars. These sealing mechanisms can heat sealing all the corners / edges of the package together. For example, side panel 16 edges 30 can be sealed to the adjacent aligned edges 32 of rear panel 14 and front panel 12, and similarly with side panel 18, 18g. Again, as indicated with the unique web method, additional features can be added to package 10 via other manufacturing steps. Various flexible sheet and reinforcement packaging techniques, apparatus, and methods understood by a person skilled in the art can be used to form the package 10 of a plurality of strips of material without deviating from the spirit and spirit.

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26/30 scope of the present invention.

[070] In addition to fixing the device 24 to form a specific access panel 16,18,16g, 18G, and forming the package 10 using various described techniques, alternative modalities can implement a bag-top configuration of, as shown in FIGS. 3-4. With such an order, the device 24, in general, a resealable closure device 24 is connected to the material network 60 in a method as described herein. However, the front flange 46 of the zipper is usually the only part of the zipper permanently sealed to the side access panel 16, 18 during the initial stages of packaging formation. The rear flange 47 of the zipper, not necessarily sealed to the side panel 16, 18, can be joined to or made in conjunction with the front flange 46, as described below.

[071] The significant difference from the bag-top modality of the present invention is that the front flange 46 of the closure device 24 can be connected to the side panels 16, 18 and the rear flange 47 can be partially connected to the front panel 12, and partially attached to the rear panel 14, as shown in FIG. 23. With this fixation of the rear flange 47 for both panels 12, 14 of the device 24, the upper part of the package 10 is in an untouchable proximity and the device 24 is anchored in a sealed way to three panel portions (that is, 12, 14 , 16). As such, a user can exclusively open the top of the pack of 10 via the side access panel 16, 18, (including the wrapping of several tear notches or slots described here) instead of the conventional top access bag method through large front and rear panels. An upper bag opening through the side panel provides a beneficial efficacy of pouring as the side panel is measurably smaller in size than the front and rear panels, thus creating an ideal pouring channel. In one embodiment, the initial fixation or integration of device 24 for flap panel 60 or side en31 / 61

27/30 will initially only seal the front flange 46 of the device 24 to the side access panel 16, 18. The only connection point initially for the rear flange 47 is the selective coupling of the first coupling part 44 and the second coupling part. engagement 45. As such, the rear flange 47 is still free of a fastening seal for the front 12 and rear panels 14. When the material band 60, and the defined side panel 16, 18, is formed on the machine (ie , prefabricated packaging machine, FES machine, and the like) a sealing bar will then seal the rear flange 47 of the zipper device 24 to the panels 12, 14. This can be done at the transverse sealing station 96 described herein. In other embodiments of the top-bag configuration, the rear flange 47 can simply be sealed to the panels 12, 14 in such a way that this limited seal is subsequently pulled off by the user over the slot notch 40 inward and over the opening of the device 24 .

[072] In these modalities with this upper bag configuration, as shown in Figs. 3-4, at least one notch in the slot 40, and preferably two, extends into the longitudinal edges 30 in the vicinity of the upper portion of the side panel 16, 18 that serves as the access panel. This at least one notch of the slot 40 facilitates the tearing of the upper portion of the side panel, thereby exposing the integrated resealable device 24, as shown in FIG. 4. By tearing out the slot notch 40, you can also tear a back flange part 47 above the seal and secure the flange 47 back to panels 12, 14. In addition, a tear slot or top notch 42 can be included in the vicinity of the top portion of package 10, as shown in FIG. 3. Slit top 42 prevents tearing from any connected or adjacent panel parts by generally insulating the spout device 24 and the pressures placed on it during use. In addition, various embodiments of the upper bag configuration may employ a separable seal similar to that described herein.

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28/30 [073] In some embodiments the bag top of the present invention in which the user will cut or tear out of the top seal 40 of the package 10, the closing flanges 46, 47 may include a heat resistant coating, lamination , ribbon, and the like. For example, a barrier layer or film 50 can be positioned between the flanges, on each or both flanges, to prevent the sealing flanges together during any adhesive or heat sealing processes carried out on the corresponding panel and / or resealable device 24. FIG. 24 shows an embodiment with such a barrier layer 50. The inclusion of the intermediate barrier 50 between the front flange 46 and the rear flange 47 can prevent the connection of the two or sealing together, when a sealing bar is used on the outside from the side panel 16 connecting the front flange 46 to the inner surface of the side panel 16. As such, the intermediate barrier 50 will prevent heat transfer through connection to the rear flange 47. It will be understood by a person skilled in the art that a resistant material to heat, and the process can be applied to other portions of panel, packaging materials, and attachments of devices of the present invention, in order to eliminate or minimize the sticking of two materials, devices, or portions of the packaging due to adhesives, heat and the like substantially. Various heat-resistant protection methods and techniques are disclosed in Pat USA. No. 6,350,058 and 6,065,873, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[074] Various figures and descriptions disclose handles and other accessories. However, it should be noted that these features are merely illustrative in nature and can be placed in different locations and in different configurations, and still being in accordance with the present invention. In addition, the shape and configuration for the top portions are also illustrative and can be changed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Any of the panel portions, or selected regions thereof, can include multiple

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29/30 aesthetic and functional illustrations, such as logos, instructions, advertisement, barcode and the like. These graphics can be executed crosswise, parallel, or even with a diagonal orientation of the longitudinal panel edges discussed here.

[075] In both embodiments of the single or multi-net of the present invention, it is envisaged that at least one of the potential sealing tasks described for joining portions of band or edges can be left either unsealed or only partially sealed to ease of filling by the packer or end user. This provides the packaging with a convenient filling area and means. For example, the top region joining the rear 14 and front 12 panels (Figs. 8-9), or side panel edges 30 of one of the side panels 16, 18, reinforced or unreinforced, can be left unsealed for then filling by packaging. After filling, the unsealed ends can be sealed easily and selectively.

[076] In addition to being initially sealed to allow filling by a packer later, the unsealed panels N, Ng can be manufactured, cut, or formed in such a way that the unsealed end 30, 32 extends a certain measurable distance to allow operable engagement with a wicket hook device or machine. This extended material or area of the panel may include at least one, and typically two, drilled holes for hanging from the filling wicket. Hanging the package 10 over the wicket by the unsealed panel portion extension allows the filling of the inner cavity 25. After filling and sealing, the length of the extension of the relevant panel portion can be cut or pulled out. Such an extension can be provided by any of the ends of the packaging panel 10, including the edge panel 30 of the side panels 16, 18. This is an improvement over known packaging techniques and devices provided that the flared end material

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30/30 can be included with a side panel 16, 18, reinforced or not reinforced, to implement a side wicket system. Likewise, such specialized seals (for example, K seals) often employed to seal portion 22 of the top 10 packaging 20 or less can be applied by the flexible packaging manufacturer, thus leaving only the relatively simple edge seal of the panels sides 16, 18 for the final wicket packer to be completed.

[077] The present invention can be modeled in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or the essential attributes of it, and it is, therefore, intended that the present modality being considered in all aspects as illustrative and not restrictive. In addition, it is anticipated that the various steps described can be carried out in different sequential and substantive orders.

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1/5

Claims (17)

1. Flexible packaging formed by a plurality of portions of flexible panels joined together forming an internal cavity capable of retaining the material content, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: a part of the front panel with an upper edge of the front panel; a portion of the rear panel with an upper edge of the rear panel, front and upper edges of the rear panel operably linked to define a narrow upper sealing edge; a side portion of the with longitudinal edges, the upper edge seal operatively attached to an upper end of the prism side portion a midpoint between the longitudinal edges of the side portion such that an upper portion of the side portion extends generally transverse from the front and rear portions on the top edge seal; and at least one reclosable access means connected to the side portion and adapted to provide selective access to the internal cavity, in which the reclosable access means is operatively arranged along, and in a substantially transversal relationship to the longitudinal edges of the side part . 2. Flexible packaging, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the resealable access means is a resealable closure means. 3. Flexible packaging CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: a plurality of flexible panel portions that form an internal cavity capable of retaining the material content, the plurality of flexible panel portions, including: a portion of the front panel having a front upper edge portion; a back panel portion having a back top edge portion of each of the front and back panels, with longitudinal edges, with the back and front top edge portions operably linked in con36 / 61 2/5 together to define a narrow upper end seal; at least a portion of the side panel having generally longitudinal edges and an upper portion of the side panel, the upper edge seal operatively connected to the upper portion of the side panel close to a midpoint between the generally longitudinal edges of the panel portion, at least one side such that the upper side panel generally extends across the front and rear panel portions of the upper edge seal; and at least one access device arranged to the panel portion on at least one side to provide access inside and outside the internal cavity through at least one side panel portion, wherein the fixation of the device is substantially transversal to the generally longitudinal edges of the at least panel portion on one side. 4. Flexible packaging, according to claim 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the device is a resealable closure device. 5. Flexible packaging according to claim 4, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the resealable closing device includes a front flange and a rear flange for fixing the resealable closing device to the flexible packaging. 6. Flexible packaging according to claim 5, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the front flange and the rear flap are both connected to an interior surface of the portion of at least one side panel. 7. Flexible packaging according to claim 5, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the internal surfaces of the front flange and the rear flap are joined to create a detachable sealing barrier, and in which the panel beyond at least one access includes a guide close to the device with at least one access such that pulling the tab will separate the front and rear flanges on the release seal for access to at least one access device. 37/61 3/5 8. Flexible packaging, according to claim 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it includes a main net, in which the main forms of net, at least the front part of the panel, the back panel portion, and the part of at least one side panel having at least one transversely integrated access device. 9. Flexible packaging, according to claim 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that each of the plurality of flexible panel portions is formed from different belts. 10. Flexible packaging, according to claim 3, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also includes a handle opening defined in the flexible packaging. 11. Flexible packaging formed by a plurality of flexible panel portions, FEATURED by the fact that it comprises: a first panel portion having two longitudinal edges in general and a first upper panel edge, wherein the space between the first panel portion edges is a distance A; a second panel portion substantially parallel to the first panel portion, the second panel portion having two longitudinal edges and generally a top edge of the second panel, wherein the space between the edges of the second panel portion is approximately equal to said distance A; the first and second top edges of the panel operatively linked together to define a narrow upper end seal; at least a portion of the access panel having two generally longitudinal edges and a top portion of the access panel, wherein the space between the ends of the access panel at least one is shorter than said distance A edges and the access panel is operationally connected to the next parallel longitudinal edges of the first and second panel portions, the 38/61 4/5 upper edge seal operatively connected to the upper portion of the access panel close to a midpoint between the two generally longitudinal ends of the panel of at least one access such that the upper portion of the access panel extends to generally transverse from the first and second portions of the top edge seal panel; and at least one reclosable device arranged to at least a portion of the access panel generally transverse to the longitudinal edges of the access panel to at least one, and the first and second panel portions, to provide a reclosable access opening within a cavity inside of the flexible packaging. 12. Flexible packaging, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the resealable device is a resealable closure device. 13. Flexible packaging according to claim 12, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the resealable closing device includes a front flange and a rear flange for fixing the resealable closing device to the flexible packaging. 14. Flexible packaging according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the internal surfaces of the front flange and the rear flap are joined to create a detachable sealing barrier, and in which the access panel is at least a guide it also includes a device in the vicinity of at least one such shape that the access by pulling the tab will separate the front and rear flanges in the release seal for access to at least one resealable device. 15. Flexible packaging, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it includes a main net, in which the main forms of belts, at least the first portion of the panel, the second portion of 39/61 5/5 panel, and the panel portion at least one having access to transversely integrated at least one resealable device. 16. Flexible packaging, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that each of the panel portions is formed from different belts. 17. Flexible packaging, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it also includes a handle opening defined in the flexible packaging. 40/61 1/18 41/61 2/18 C4