BENDABLE DISPENSING SACHET AND METHOD OF SACHET MANUFACTURE

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a sachet of the type which forms both a container for and dispenser of selected items as well as predetermined quantities of flowable substances such as liquids, powders and pastes and, more particularly, to such a sachet and a method of manufacture thereof.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The concept of a sachet for storing and dispensing of a single serve of a condiment such as tomato sauce or the like is known. See, for example, a selection of patents to Sanford Redmond including US 4, 493, 574 and US4,611,715 which show a sachet arrangement having a ridge portion through which condiment is expressed.

[0003] European Patent EP0909248 discloses an alternative arrangement which utilizes a flat rather than a ridge like dispenser arrangement.

[0004] US 5,494,192 discloses a pouch according to the preamble of claim 1, comprising a relatively stiff flat sheet having a barrier bonded to the inner surface of the relatively stiff sheet. The pouch is opened by bending by squeezing the relatively flat sheet which retracts upon release, thereby covering an enclosed flowable substance, albeit not necessarily resealing it.

[0005] Sachets have also been used to store and protect specific items prior to use. Such items can include but are by no means limited to liquid impregnated articles such as tissues and swabs of various kinds. In this context the aperture for expression of the stored article will often need to be larger than in the case where a flowable substance such as a paste or cream is to be expressed.

[0006] A problem with both the raised and non-raised arrangements referred to above relates to the sealing of the dispenser aperture during the period when the sachet is being used for storage and, in conjunction with this, the manner of opening or rupturing of the aperture at the time of first use of the sachet to dispense its contents. Particularly where the sachet is not disposed of after initial expulsion of its contents but, rather, is retained for further or subsequent expulsion of contents at a later time problems occur with interaction between the remaining contents of the sachet and the ruptured opening, including in sone instances, the degradation of portions of the sachet.

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to address or ameliorate one or more of the abovementioned problems or at least provide a useful choice.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

[0008] Accordingly, in one form of the invention there is provided a sachet comprising a tray portion to which is non-releasably affixed a composite re-sealable structure; said composite re-sealable structure comprising at least a first layer overlaying a second layer; said first layer comprising a semi-rigid member; said second layer comprising a rupturable film component; said composite re-sealable structure including an aperture region therein;
characterised in that said aperture region comprises a first sub-aperture region in said first layer in communication with a second sub-aperture region located in said second layer; said second sub-aperture region including a groove or a weakened circular path at a location which corresponds to being proximate or overlapping a score line formed laterally across the semi-rigid member, and wherein flexing of said aperture region exposes a sealable channel therethrough; a ceasing of flexing action tending to return said composite re-sealable structure to a re-sealed state.

[0009] Preferably said first layer is sealed to said second layer at said aperture region. Further advantageous modifications of the subject matter of the invention are defined in the appended dependent claims.

[0010] In yet a further form of the invention there is provided a method of forming a sachet, said sachet comprising a tray portion to which is non-releasably affixed a composite re-sealable structure; said composite re-sealable structure comprising at least a first layer overlaying a second layer; said first layer comprising a semi-rigid member; said composite re-sealable structure including an aperture region therein; said aperture region comprising a first sub-aperture region in said first layer in communication with a second sub-aperture region located in said second layer; said second sub-aperture region including a groove or a weakened circular path at a location which corresponds to being proximate or overlapping a score line (120) formed laterally across the semi-rigid member; said method comprising the steps of:

(a) forming an array of indentations in a film layer, each indentation corresponding to said tray portion;

(b) injecting a flowable substance into said indentations;

(c) placing an upper sheet assembly corresponding to said composite re-sealable stricture over said array of indentations;

(d) non-releasably sealing peripheral portions of said indentations to said upper sheet assembly thereby to form an array of sachets
and wherein flexing of said aperture region (15) exposes a sealable channel therethrough; a ceasing of flexing action tending to return said composite re-sealable structure (13) to a re-sealed state.

[0011] Preferably said steps are performed in a batch mode.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein;

Fig. 1 is a side section view of a sachet according to a generalized first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a side section view of a sachet according to a second generalized embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 3 comprises views of a sachet according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4 comprises views of a sachet according to an embodiment not forming part of the present invention;

Fig. 5 illustrates a manner of assembly of a sachet of the type illustrated in either Fig. 3 or Fig. 4;

Fig. 6 illustrates a machinery arrangement suitable for the construction and filling of sachets according to various embodiments of the invention on a commercial basis;

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of a sachet according to a further specific embodiment of the present invention particularly suited for the storage and expulsion of items;

Fig. 8 is a side section view of the sachet of Fig. 7;

Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the sachet of Fig. 7 in a release or expulsion position;

Fig. 10 is a diagrammatic view of an alternative machinery arrangement suitable for the construction and filling of sachets according to various embodiments of the invention on a commercial basis; and

Fig. 11 is a side section view of a typical film structure usable as at least one of the layers in one or more of the above mentioned embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] With reference to Fig. 1 there is illustrated in side section view a sachet 10 in generalized form. The sachet 10 comprises a tray portion 11 defining a storage volume 12 therein. The storage volume 12 is releasably sealed by composite re-sealable structure 13 which, as illustrated in Fig. 1, overlays the storage volume 12 defined by tray portion 11.

[0014] The composite re-sealable structure 13 is non-releasably sealed to tray portion 11 at peripheral portions 14 thereof.

[0015] The sachet 10 includes an aperture region 15 in and forming part of composite re-sealable structure 13. The aperture region 15 is adapted, following an initial rupture process, to conduct in a re-sealable manner an item or a flowable substance 16 stored within storage volume 12 to exterior region 17.

[0016] In this embodiment composite re-sealable structure 13 comprises a semi-rigid member 18 overlaying a second upper film layer 19.

[0017] Aperture region 15 extends through both semi-rigid member 18 and second upper film layer 19 and comprises, in this instance, a first sub-aperture region 20 in semi-rigid member 18 and a second sub-aperture region 21 in second upper film layer 19. The first region 20 and second region 21 co-act to form aperture region 15 which, in conjunction with semi-rigid member 18 and second upper film layer 19 and characteristics thereof form a re-sealable aperture in composite re-sealable structure 13.

[0018] With reference to Fig. 2 where like components are numbered as for Fig. 1 sachet 22 according to a second generalized embodiment of the invention includes an overlay layer 23 which overlays at least aperture region 15 and is releasably sealable thereto. Hence, in this arrangement, composite releasably sealable structure 24 comprises 3, in this instance substantially co-extensive, layers being second upper film layer 19, semi-rigid member 18 and overlay layer 23.

[0019] In the case of the embodiments of both Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 the arrangement is such that the sachets 10, 22 are filled, as part of the manufacture process to be described later in this specification, with an item or a flowable substance 16 placed in storage volume 12. At the time of manufacture the aperture region 15 is sealed thereby ensuring that storage volume 12 is a sealed volume up until the time it is desired by a user (not shown) to release at least a portion of the flowable substance 16 from storage volume 12.

[0020] At the time of intended first release of an item or flowable substance 16 through aperture region 15 a user causes aperture region 15 to be flexed sufficiently to cause rupture thereof so as to expose a re-sealable channel therethrough and through which flowable substance 16 is urged by deformation of tray portion 11.

[0021] In a particularly preferred form the appropriate flexing of aperture region 15 together with sufficient deformation of tray portion 11 is performed in one movement by a user flexing downwardly peripheral portions 14 downwardly with respect to aperture region 15.

[0022] Upon ceasing of the flexing action the structure of the composite releasably sealable structure 13, 24 in conjunction with tray portion 11 is such that there is a natural tendency to return to the un-flexed state illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. The arrangement can be such that some assistance will be required from the user to cause the structure to return completely to the state illustrated in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Said arrangement, however, does not form part of the present invention. Once returned to this state aperture region 15 is re-sealed. In some embodiments the extent of sealing will be of less integrity than prior to first rupture but sufficient, from a practical point of view, to allow retention of at least a portion of the item or flowable substance 16 within storage volume 12 for subsequent release at a later time.

[0023] Overlay layer 23 can be utilized to reseal the aperture region 15 by drawing the overlay layer 23 thereover after use.

[0024] In various forms of alternative embodiments to be later described second sub-aperture region 21 can take the form of a passage in a central portion of second upper film layer 19. In alternative forms second sub-aperture region 21 can take the form of a rupturable seal located in a central portion of and formed from the same material as second upper film layer 19.

[0025] In further forms aperture region 15 can include a seal region 33 between semi-rigid member 18 and second upper film layer 19 extending at least entirely around and otherwise surrounding in sealable manner that portion of aperture region 15 which is subsequently ruptured so as to permit passage of flowable substance 16 therethrough.

[0026] The seal region 33 in its simplest form extends entirely around aperture region 15. It can be formed from an adhesive or can be formed by a heat seal between semi-rigid member 18 and second upper film layer 19.

[0027] In a further form seal region 33 can extend entirely through the region which is co-extensive between semi-regid member 18 and second upper film layer 19.

[0028] Two specific examples of the arrangements of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 will now be described in detail followed by a particularly preferred method of filling and manufacture thereof.

First Detailed Embodiment

[0029] With reference to Figs. 3:

Fig. 3.1 is a sectional side elevation view of a sachet according to a detailed first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Fig 3.2 is a view similar to Fig 1 but of the sachet in exploded form;

Fig 3.3 is a sectional side elevation view of the sachet of Fig 1 when bent sufficiently so as to fracture the semi-rigid member and expose the aperture for dispensing of the substance, and

Fig 3.4 is a top view of the sachet of Fig 1 with the first flexible film layer and flowable substance removed so as to show the aperture and the sealed region thereabout.

[0030] The sachet 110 shown in Figs. 3.1 to 3.4 has a semi-rigid member 112 and a reservoir means 114 formed by overlaid flexible film layers 116, 118.

[0031] The semi-rigid member 112 is, in this embodiment, fabricated of polystyrene, and has formed substantially midway across its elongate structure a weakened region comprising a score line 120, although the weakening may alternatively be due to perforations or narrowing of the structure or the like.

[0032] In addition or as an alternative to polystyrene, certain grades of PVC can be utilized for the semi-rigid member. Where PVC is utilized it may be necessary to include a scoreline on both sides of the semi-rigid member.

[0033] The weakened region 120 is such that upon bending thereacross, the semi-rigid member 112 will fracture or snap along the weakened region 120.

[0034] The overlaid flexible film layers 116, 118 are, in this embodiment, fabricated of polyester or, alternatively, plastic polymers or plastic laminates and comprise separate film members affixed together at their respective peripheral regions 122, 124, the film member 118 being first affixed upon the semi-rigid member 112. The film member 116 is so processed that, upon affixing on the film member 118, the film member 116 forms a loose pocket that co-operates with the film member 118 to form a flexible bag defining the reservoir means 114. A flexible bag defining the reservoir means 114 may alternatively be preformed utilizing a single film member that is folded over so as to form overlaid first and second flexible film layers that are then affixed together at their respective peripheral regions before the second flexible film layer is affixed upon the semi-rigid member 112.

[0035] In alternative particular forms the film can be a composite material comprising, for example, three layers including a seal layer, a barrier film and a printable polyester or nylon outer layer. Particular forms of film can include polymerised plastics such as LLDP, LDP, barrier films such as EVOH or PVdC coated PVC. In an alternative form aluminium foil film can be used as a barrier.

[0036] In further alternative forms, the film may comprise more generally plastic polymers or plastic laminates.

[0037] The reservoir means 114 contains a flowable substance 125, such as a liquid, powder or paste, in a measured quantity determined by the volume capacity of the flexible bag formed by the film layers 116, 118.

[0038] The peripheral regions 122, 124 of film layers 116, 118 respectively are affixed together by means of heat, heat activated glue or other sealing means. Similar sealing means may be used to affix at least the peripheral regions 124 of the film layer 118 upon the semi-rigid member 112.

[0039] The film layer 118 has an aperture region including a rupturable seal 126 comprised in this instance of a circular region of film layer 118 defined by a groove 25 or weakened circular path within the layer and at a location which corresponds to being proximate or overlapping the score line 120 formed laterally across the semi-rigid member 112 when affixed thereto. The aperture 126 is of such dimension as to allow the flowable substance 125 to flow controllably therethrough and is preferably circular.

[0040] An annular region 128 of the film layer 118 immediately surrounding the aperture region is bonded, or otherwise securely sealed, say, by a suitable heat activated glue that is inert to the effects of the flowable substance 125 contained in the reservoir means 114, to the adjacent region of the semi-rigid member 112 so as to prevent leakage or migration of the flowable substance 125 from within the reservoir means 114. In this manner, the flowable substance 125 is prevented from leaking to the peripheral regions of the semi-rigid member 112 where, as in the prior art, it may undermine the bond between the semi-rigid member 112 and the film layer 118 causing delamination thereof.

[0041] In alternative embodiments the region 128 may take other shapes including, for example, the shape of a cross.

[0042] The score line 120 is shown fractured in Fig 3.3, such as by gripping each of the opposed shorter ends 130, 132 and bending the sachet 110 as shown until the semi-rigid member 112 snaps apart. The rupturable seal 126 is also ruptured by this action so that, in conjunction with the ruptured semi-rigid member, a re-sealable channel in the aperture region is formed whereby flowable substance 125 may then be dispensed by squeezing the opposed shorter ends 130, 132 together with the thumb and forefinger of one hand.

[0043] The sachet of the present invention, as exemplified by reference to the preferred embodiment shown in Figs 3.1 to 3.4, therefore provides a user friendly means of packaging and dispensing measured quantities of flowable substances, particularly those with aggressive properties, such as solvent-like or volatile substances.

Second Detailed Embodiment

[0044] With reference to Figs. 4, an embodiment which does not form part of the present invention will be described.

Fig 4.1 is a sectional side elevation view of a sachet according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Fig 4.2 is a view similar to Fig 1 but of the sachet in exploded form;

Fig 4.3 is a sectional side elevation view of the sachet of Fig 1 when bent sufficiently so as to fracture the semi-rigid member and expose the aperture for dispensing of the substance; and

Fig 4.4 is a top view of the sachet of Fig 1 with the first flexible film layer and flowable substance removed so as to show the aperture and the sealed region thereabout.

[0045] The sachet 210 shown in Figs. 4.1 to 4.4 has a semi-rigid member 212 and a reservoir means 214 formed by overlaid flexible film layers 216, 218.

[0046] The semi-rigid member 212 is, in this embodiment, fabricated of polystyrene, and has formed substantially midway across its elongate structure a weakened region comprising a score line 220, although the weakening may alternatively be due to perforations or narrowing of the structure or the like.

[0047] The weakened region 220 is such that upon bending thereacross, the semi-rigid member 212 will fracture or snap along the weakened region 220.

[0048] The overlaid flexible film layers 216, 218 are, in this embodiment, fabricated of polyester and comprise separate film members affixed together at their respective peripheral regions 222, 224, the film member 218 being first affixed upon the semi-rigid member 212. The film member 216 is so processed that, upon affixing on the film member 218, the film member 216 forms a loose pocket that co-operates with the film member 218 to form a flexible bag defining the reservoir means 214. A flexible bag defining the reservoir means 214 may alternatively be preformed utilizing a single film member that is folded over so as to form overlaid first and second flexible film layers that are then affixed together at their respective peripheral regions before the second flexible film layer is affixed upon the semi-rigid member 212.

[0049] The reservoir means 214 contains a flowable substance 225, such as a liquid, powder or paste, in a measured quantity determined by the volume capacity of the flexible bag formed by the film layers 216, 218.

[0050] The peripheral regions 222, 224 of film layers 216, 218 respectively are affixed together by means of heat, heat activated glue or other sealing means. Similar sealing means may be used to affix at least the peripheral regions 224 of the film layer 18 upon the semi-rigid member 212.

[0051] The film layer 218 has an aperture region including, in this instance an aperture 226 preformed therethrough at a location which corresponds to being proximate or overlapping the score line 220 formed laterally across the semi-rigid member 212 when affixed thereto. The aperture 226 is of such dimension as to allow the flowable substance 225 to flow controllably therethrough and is preferably circular.

[0052] An annular region 228 of the film layer 218 immediately surrounding the aperture 226 is bonded, or otherwise securely sealed, say, by a suitable heat activated glue that is inert to the effects of the flowable substance 225 contained in the reservoir means 214, to the adjacent region of the semi-rigid member 212 so as to prevent leakage or migration of the flowable substance 225 from within the reservoir means 214. In this manner, the flowable substance 225 is prevented from leaking to the peripheral regions of the semi-rigid member 212 where, as in the prior art, it may undermine the bond between the semi-rigid member 212 and the film layer 218 causing delamination thereof.

[0053] The score line 220 is shown fractured in Fig 4.3, such as by gripping each of the opposed shorter ends 230, 232 and bending the sachet 210 as shown until the semi-rigid member 212 snaps apart. The aperture 226 is thus exposed and the flowable substance 225 may then be dispensed by squeezing the opposed shorter ends 230, 232 together with the thumb and forefinger of one hand.

[0054] The sachet of the embodiment shown in Figs 4.1 to 4.4, therefore provides a user friendly, means of packaging and dispensing measured quantities of flowable substances, particularly those with aggressive properties, such as solvent-like or volatile substances.

METHOD OF MANUFACTURE

[0055] With reference to Figs. 5 and 6 a preferred method of manufacture of the sachets 10, 22 of various embodiments of the invention will now be described.

[0056] Fig. 5 illustrates the manner of interconnection of a lower sheet assembly 310 with an upper sheet assembly 311. In this instance each sheet assembly comprises an array 5 wide by 3 deep of what will become individual sachets.

[0057] Lower sheet assembly 310 commences as a plain sheet into which an array of indentations 312 are formed, which indentations will subsequently become tray portions 11 of the finished product.

[0058] Upper sheet assembly 311 comprises a corresponding array of cover portions 313 which are adapted to overlay and subsequently be attached to peripheral portions 314 of indentations 312.

[0059] Upper sheet assembly 311 comprises a 5 x 3 array of cover portions 313 formed contiguously within contiguous second upper film 315 which, in turn, overlays and is attached to contiguous semi-rigid material sheet layer 316. For display purposes a contiguous indicia layer 317 overlays and is attached to the contiguous semi-rigid material sheet layer as illustrated in Fig. 5. In the alternative or in addition a contiguous layer corresponding to overlay layer 23 of the second generalized embodiment previously described can overlay contiguous indicia layer 317.

[0060] In this instance the cover portions 313 include second sub-aperture region 21 within and forming part of contiguous second upper film layer 315.

[0061] In production lower sheet assembly 310 has formed within it by vacuum forming process or otherwise indentations 312 which are then filled with a flowable substance by filling means (not shown in Fig. 5). Following filling upper sheet assembly 311 is overlaid over lower sheet assembly 310 such that corresponding cover portions 313 are aligned with and cover squarely corresponding indentations 312 of lower sheet assembly 310.

[0062] The overlaid and juxtaposed lower sheet assembly 310 together with upper sheet assembly 311 are then passed to a sealing station wherein peripheral portions 314 of the indentations 312 are non-releasably sealed to corresponding peripheral portions 318 of the respective cover portions 313 thereby to form an array of sachets 10, 22 each having a sealed storage volume 12 therein releasably sealed by composite releasably sealed structures 13, 24.

[0063] The individual sachets can then be separated by cutting means (not shown).

[0064] It will be appreciated that the production process thus described is a step-wise process rather than a continuous process. Alternatively it can be viewed as a batch process wherein batches of sachets are formed, in this instance in arrays of 15 sachets at a time.

[0065] With reference to Fig. 6 a specific machinery layout to give effect to the general process described with respect to Fig. 5 will now be described.

[0066] Batch forming machine 410 comprises a plurality of serially aligned stations through which work in progress moves from an input end 411 to an output end 412 from which emerges separated arrays 413 of filled sachets 414.

[0067] Construction and operation of the machine 410 is as follows:

Film which is to form the first lower film layer 405 is taken from film roll 416 and fed into forming station 417 which, in this instance, is a vacuum forming station which forms 5 x 3 arrays of indentations 312 as described with reference to Fig. 5.

Each array thus formed is passed to a dispense fill station 418 where an injector array 419 (refer inset) is caused to place an injector nozzle above each indentation 312 of the array and to simultaneously inject into each indentation 312 a predetermined portion of flowable product.
Each injector nozzle 420 includes a feed aperture 421 which is shaped so as to optimize flow characteristics for the selected flowable material. In the case of semi-viscous materials such as creams it has been found advantageous to have feed aperture 421 narrowed at its center as illustrated in cross-section in the inset of Fig. 6.

[0068] Once the array of indentations 312 has been filled with flowable material the array passes to a pick and place station 422 where upper sheet assembly 311 (refer Fig. 5) is placed over the top of and down onto the array of indentations 312 in first lower film layer 415. A preliminary join of at least part of upper sheet assembly 311 to lower film layer 415 can be made at this time to ensure alignment between the upper sheet assembly 311 and lower sheet assembly 310 is not dislodged during subsequent movement.

[0069] The assembled upper sheet assembly 311 and lower sheet assembly 310 then pass to sealing station 423 where, in this instance, peripheral portions 314 of lower sheet assembly 310 are contiguously heat sealed to peripheral portions 318 of upper sheet assembly 311 so as to form a non-releasably sealable join of the type described in relation to peripheral portions 14 of Figs. 1 and 2 thereby to seal storage volume 12 complete with its flowable substance 16 therein.

[0070] A flying knife 424 is then utilized to separate the completed array 413 from the array still under formation.

Third Detailed Embodiment

[0071] With reference to Fig. 7 there is illustrated a sachet 510. In this arrangement the structure is the same as that described with reference to Fig. 1 and wherein like components are numbered as for Fig. 1 except in the 500 series. So, for example, tray portion 11 of Fig. 1 becomes tray portion 511 in this embodiment.

[0072] In the specific arrangement of Fig. 7 the sachet 510 includes an aperture region 515 in the form of an elongate slot which extends substantially the entire width of the composite releasably sealable structure 513. This arrangement permits the expulsion of stored items as well as flowable substances. So, for example, the sachet 510 can be utilized to store impregnated tissues or swabs which can be released by the same action as described with reference to the first and second preferred embodiments but which allows for a much larger aperture for the removal of items from the sachet 510.

[0073] Fig. 8 is a side section view of the sachet 510 of Fig. 7 and showing the storage therein of a semi-rigid applicator 26 such as a cotton bud or the like. The composite releasably sealable structure 513 comprises semi-rigid member 518 in the form of high impact polystyrene with a printed layer on top and a score line 27 therein extending substantially the entire width of the semi-rigid member 518 and forming part of the aperture region 515.

[0074] Second upper film layer 519 comprises a heat bonded film and includes a rupturable aperture 28 therein also forming part of the aperture region 515.

[0075] The tray portion 511 is formed from a vacuum formed film 29.

[0076] As illustrated in Fig. 9 the aperture region 515 is ruptured by a bending of opposed ends of the sachet 510 as illustrated and allowing, in this instance, the item comprising semi-rigid applicator 26 to extend therefrom for easy removal. An advantage of this particular arrangement is that the semi-rigid applicator 26 can be removed for use or, alternatively, can be left with a portion of it remaining in the pack and held by the sachet 510.

ALTERNATIVE METHOD OF MANUFACTURE

[0077] Fig. 10 illustrates a forming machine 610 suitable for the manufacture of sachets in accordance with the various embodiments of the invention previously described. In Fig. 10 like components are numbered as for the forming machine of Fig. 6 but in the 600 series. So, for example, the forming machine 410 of Fig. 6 is designated as a forming machine 610 in accordance with the second embodiment in Fig. 10.

[0078] The arrangement of Fig. 10 operates in the same manner as the arrangement of Fig. 6 except for the following:

In place of the pick and place station 422 the upper sheet assemblies 311 (refer Fig. 5) are fed as a continuous roll 30 thereby obviating the requirement for a pick and place mechanism. In each batch cycle of the machine the roll 30 simply unrolls sufficiently to allow an array of cover portions 313 to be placed over a corresponding array of indentations 312 in lower sheet assembly 310 for passing to sealing station 623 where sealing is performed as for the first embodiment described with reference to Fig. 6.

[0079] The array is then passed to a die cutting station 31 wherein the individual sachets are severed one from the other prior to deposit onto off feed conveyor 32.

[0080] A particular form of film structure which can be utilized to form one or more of the film layers of the sachet and which can be utilized in conjunction with the methods of manufacture described thus far is illustrated in Fig. 11 in cross section. In this instance the film structure comprises a sealing layer 33 which can comprise, for example, LLDPE or can be comprised of LDPE or a co-extrusion thereof. Above sealing layer 33 is barrier film layer 34 which can be comprised of, for example, EVOH or PVdC coated PVC or metalised PE or aluminium foil.

[0081] Above the barrier film layer 34 can be an adhesive layer 35 comprised, for example, of LLDPE to which is adhered a top (usually printable) layer 36 which can comprise, for example, polyester or nylon.

[0082] The above describes only some embodiments of the present invention and modifications, obvious to those skilled in the art, can be made thereto without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0083] For example it will be understood that the nozzle arrangement utilized for injecting flowable material into the sachets during manufacture may take other forms depending on the material and nature and direction of injection.

[0084] Similarly whilst the batch process is described with reference to a 3 x 5 array, other array sizes can be utilized.

[0085] Similarly, other forming methods may be utilized including press forming depending on the sachet materials utilized.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0086] The sachet and its method of construction are applicable to the storage and subsequent selective release of selected items and various flowable materials including, but not limited to, single serves or portions of condiments, cosmetics, creams and the like.

Claims

1. A sachet (10, 210) comprising a tray portion (11) to which is non-releasably affixed a composite re-sealable structure (13); said composite re-sealable structure comprising at least a first layer overlaying a second layer (19); said first layer comprising a semi-rigid member (18); said second layer (19) comprising a rupturable film component; said composite re-sealable structure (13) including an aperture region (15) therein;
characterised in that said aperture region (15) comprises a first sub-aperture region (20) in said first layer in communication with a second sub-aperture region (21) located in said second layer (19); said second sub-aperture region (21) including a groove (25) or a weakened circular path at a location which corresponds to being either proximate a weakened region in the semi-rigid member (18), weakened so that upon bending across said weakened region said semi-rigid member (18) will fracture along said weakened region, or proximate or overlapping a score line (120) formed laterally across the semi-rigid member (18, 112), and wherein flexing of said aperture region (15) exposes a sealable channel therethrough; a ceasing of flexing action tending to return said composite re-sealable structure (13) to a re-sealed state.

2. The sachet of claim 1 wherein said first layer is sealed to said second layer (19) at said aperture region (15).

3. The sachet of any preceding claim wherein a region of said second layer (19) immediately surrounding said aperture region (15) is sealed to an adjacent region of said semi-rigid member (18) so as to prevent leakage of a flowable substance from within said tray portion (11).

4. A method of forming a sachet (10), said sachet comprising a tray portion (11) to which is non-releasably affixed a composite re-sealable structure (13); said composite re-sealable structure comprising at least a first layer overlaying a second layer (19); said first layer comprising a semi-rigid member (18); said composite re-sealable structure including an aperture region (15) therein; said aperture region comprising a first sub-aperture region (20) in said first layer in communication with a second sub-aperture region (21) located in said second layer (19); said second sub-aperture region including a groove (25) or a weakened circular path at a location which corresponds to being proximate or overlapping a score line (120) formed laterally across the semi-rigid member; said method comprising the steps of:

(a) forming an array of indentations in a film layer, each indentation corresponding to said tray portion (11);

(b) injecting a flowable substance into said indentations;

(c) placing an upper sheet assembly corresponding to said composite re-sealable structure over said array of indentations;

(d) non-releasably sealing peripheral portions of said indentations to said upper sheet assembly
thereby to form an array of sachets and wherein flexing of said aperture region (15) exposes a sealable channel therethrough; a ceasing of flexing action tending to return said composite re-sealable structure (13) to a re-sealed state.

5. The method of Claim 4 wherein said steps are performed in a batch mode.

Ansprüche

1. Beutel (10, 210) mit einem Schalenteil (11), an welchem eine wiederverschließbare Verbundstruktur (13) unlösbar angebracht ist; wobei die wiederverschließbare Verbundstruktur mindestens eine erste Schicht aufweist, welche über einer zweiten Schicht (19) liegt; wobei die erste Schicht ein halbstarres Element (18) aufweist; wobei die zweite Schicht (19) einen zerreißbaren Folienbestandteil aufweist; wobei in der wiederverschließbaren Verbundstruktur (13) ein Öffnungsbereich (15) vorgesehen ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Öffnungsbereich (15) einen ersten Unter-Öffnungsbereich (20) in der ersten Schicht aufweist, welcher in Verbindung mit einem zweiten Unter-Öffnungsbereich (21) in der zweiten Schicht (19) steht; wobei der zweite Unter-Öffnungsbereich (21) eine Nut (25) oder eine geschwächte umöaufende Bahn an einer Stelle aufweist, welche entweder nahe einem Schwächungsbereich in dem halbstarren Element (18) liegt, der solchermaßen geschwächt ist, dass das halbstarre Element (18) beim Biegen entlang dieses Schwächungsbereichs entlang dieses Schwächungsbereichs (18) bricht, oder nahe oder überlappend zu einer seitlich über das halbstarre Element (18, 112) ausgebildeten Kerblinie (120) liegt, und wobei das Biegen des Öffnungsbereichs (15) einen durch diesen hindurchgehenden verschließbaren Kanal freilegt; wobei das Beenden des Biegens das Rückstellen der wiederverschließbaren Verbundstruktur (13) in einen wiederverschlossenen Zustand bewirkt.

2. Beutel nach Anspruch 1, bei welchem die erste Schicht am Öffnungsbereich (15) an die zweite Schicht (19) angesiegelt ist.

3. Beutel nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, bei welchem ein den Öffnungsbereich (15) unmittelbar umgebender Bereich der zweiten Schicht (19) an einen benachbarten Bereich des halbstarren Elements (18) angesiegelt ist, um das Austreten einer fließfähigen Substanz aus dem Schalenteil (11) zu verhindern.

4. Verfahren zur Herstellung eines Beutels (10), wobei der Beutel ein Schalenteil (11) aufweist, an welchem eine wiederverschließbare Verbundstruktur (13) unlösbar angebracht ist; wobei die wiederverschließbare Verbundstruktur mindestens eine erste Schicht aufweist, welche über einer zweiten Schicht (19) liegt; wobei die erste Schicht ein halbstarres Element (18) aufweist; wobei in der wiederverschließbaren Verbundstruktur ein Öffnungsbereich (15) vorgesehen ist; wobei der Öffnungsbereich einen ersten Unter-Öffnungsbereich (20) in der ersten Schicht aufweist, welcher in Verbindung mit einem zweiten Unter-Öffnungsbereich (21) in der zweiten Schicht (19) steht; wobei der zweite Unter-Öffnungsbereich (21) eine Nut (25) oder eine geschwächte umlaufende Bahn an einer Stelle aufweist, welche entweder nahe oder überlappend zu einer seitlich über das halbstarre Element ausgebildeten Kerblinie (120) liegt; wobei das Verfahren die folgenden Schritte aufweist:

(a) Bilden einer Anordnung von Vertiefungen in einer Folienschicht, wobei jede Vertiefung einem Schalenteil (11) entspricht;

(b) Spritzen einer fließfähigen Substanz in die Vertiefungen;

(c) Platzieren einer oberen Bahnanordnung, welche der wiederverschließbaren Verbundstruktur entspricht, über der Anordnung von Vertiefungen;

(d) unlösbares Siegeln von Randbereichen der Vertiefungen mit der oberen Bahnanordnung, um so eine Anordnung von Beuteln zu bilden,
und wobei das Biegen des Öffnungsbereichs (15) einen hindurchgehenden wiederverschließbaren Kanal freigibt; wobei das Beenden des Biegens das Rückstellen der wiederverschließbaren Verbundstruktur (13) in einen wiederverschlossenen Zustand bewirkt.

5. Verfahren nach Anspruch 4, bei welchem die Schritte im Batchbetrieb durchgeführt werden.

Revendications

1. Sachet (10, 210) comprenant une partie barquette (11) à laquelle est fixée, de manière non amovible, une structure composite refermable (13), ladite structure composite refermable comprenant au moins une première couche recouvrant une seconde couche (19) ; ladite première couche comprenant un élément semi-rigide (18) ; ladite seconde couche (19) comprenant un composant film déchirable, une région d'ouverture (15) étant prévue à l'intérieur de ladite structure composite refermable (13); caractérisé en ce que ladite région d'ouverture (15) comprend une première région de sous-ouverture (20) dans ladite première couche en communication avec une seconde région de sous-ouverture (21) située dans ladite seconde couche (19) ; ladite seconde région de sous-ouverture (21) comprenant une rainure (25) ou une trajectoire circulaire affaiblie à un emplacement qui correspond à une position qui est soit proche d'une région affaiblie dans l'élément semi-rigide (18), affaiblie de façon qu'au moment du pliage à travers ladite région affaiblie, ledit élément semi-rigide (18) se fracture le long de ladite région affaiblie, soit proche ou chevauchant une ligne de pliure (120) formée latéralement à travers l'élément semi-rigide (18, 112), et la flexion de ladite région d'ouverture (15) découvrant un canal obturable au travers de celle-ci ; la cessation de l'action de flexion tendant à opérer le retour de ladite structure composite refermable (13) à un état refermé.

2. Sachet selon la revendication 1, dans lequel ladite première couche est scellée à ladite seconde couche (19) au niveau de ladite région d'ouverture (15).

3. Sachet selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans lequel une région de ladite seconde couche (19) entourant immédiatement ladite région d'ouverture (15) est scellée à une région adjacente dudit élément semi-rigide (18) de façon à empêcher une fuite de substance fluide de l'intérieur de ladite partie barquette (11).

4. Procédé de formation d'un sachet (10), ledit sachet comprenant une partie barquette (11) à laquelle est fixée, de manière non amovible, une structure composite refermable (13), ladite structure composite refermable comprenant au moins une première couche recouvrant une seconde couche (19) ; ladite première couche comprenant un élément semi-rigide (18) ; une région d'ouverture (15) étant prévue à l'intérieur de ladite structure composite refermable (13); ladite région d'ouverture comprenant une première région de sous-ouverture (20) dans ladite première couche en communication avec une seconde région de sous-ouverture (21) située dans ladite seconde couche (19) ; ladite seconde région de sous-ouverture comprenant une rainure (25) ou une trajectoire circulaire affaiblie à un emplacement qui correspond à une position proche de ou chevauchant une ligne de pliure (120) formée latéralement à travers l'élément semi-rigide, ledit procédé comprenant les étapes suivantes :

(a) former un ensemble d'alvéoles dans une couche film, chaque alvéole correspondant à ladite partie barquette (11) ;

(b) injecter une substance fluide dans lesdites alvéoles ;

(c) placer un ensemble feuille supérieur correspondant à ladite structure composite refermable par dessus ledit ensemble d'alvéoles ;

(d) sceller de manière non amovible des parties périphériques desdites alvéoles audit ensemble feuille supérieur pour ainsi former un ensemble de sachets ;
et la flexion de ladite région d'ouverture (15) découvrant un canal obturable au travers de celle-ci ; la cessation de l'action de flexion tendant à opérer un retour de ladite structure composite refermable (13) à un état refermé.

5. Procédé selon la revendication 4, dans lequel lesdites étapes sont réalisées en mode de traitement par lots.

Drawing