FIELD OF INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to paper bags, and more specifically, to paper bags configured for use with conventional plastic bag holders.
BACKGROUND
Disposable bags are often used in retail setting to assist consumers in carrying multiple products from a shop to the consumer's end destination. Disposable bags are most often made from different types of paper and plastic materials. However, current paper and plastic bags have several disadvantages.
Plastic bags are the most common type of disposable bag and are typically arranged on a bag holder for easy manipulation and convenience. However, plastic bags are known to contribute to environmental issues. For example, animals may eat plastic bags, which can cause health problems and may leads to death. Further, because plastic bags are generally not biodegradable, they often become litter if they are not properly recycled.
Some paper bags are biodegradable or compostable and have a smaller environmental impact relative to plastic bags. However, paper bags tend to be less convenient for consumers and retailers. Typically, paper bags are folded and stacked on a surface near a checkout station. Paper bags typically require more space for storage and/or an employee must replenish paper bags at a checkout station frequently (e.g., more frequently than plastic bags). Further, most paper bags need to be manipulated with both hands to be able to receive objects. This can be burdensome and time consuming for both consumers and employees handling multiple items or performing more than one task. Paper bags are typically also inelastic and/or susceptible to tearing when carrying heavy items and/or items with rigid corners or edges.
SUMMARY
There is a need for disposable bags which are convenient to use and have a smaller environmental impact. Some configurations of the present paper bags can address these needs by being made from paper, rather than plastic, and being usable with existing bag holders.
Some of the present configurations include a paper bag having a body, a first attachment portion configured to engage with a first arm of a bag holder, and a second attachment portion configured to engage with a second arm of the bag holder. In some configurations, the body defines defining an opening configured to receive objects. The body may include opposing first and second sides, a first section disposed between the first side and the second side, and a second section disposed between the first and second sides, the second section moveable relative to the first section to define a cavity that is in communication with the opening. In some aspects, the first attachment portion is closer to the first side of the body than the second side, the second attachment portion is closer to the second side of the body than the first side, or both. In some configurations, the paper includes kraft paper, such as an extensible or semi-extensible kraft paper.
Some of the present bags include a first handle coupled to the body and a second handle coupled to the body. Additionally, or alternatively, the body may define a first aperture and a second aperture that is aligned with the first aperture. First and second apertures may be defined by first and second sections, respectively. In some configurations, at least a majority of the first and second sections are interposed between the first attachment portion and the second attachment portion. In some aspects, the first and second attachment portions are unitary with the body. Additionally, or alternatively, at least one of the first and second attachment portions are disposed laterally outward from the body. In some configurations, a width of the paper bag is greater than a width of the body.
In some of the present configurations, the paper bag includes a perimeter and the first attachment portion includes a first notch extending inward from the perimeter. As an example, the first notch may extend vertically upward from the perimeter. In some of the present configurations, the first notch includes a first region having a first transverse dimension and a second region having a second transverse dimension that is greater than the first transverse dimension. The first transverse dimension may be less than a dimension of the first arm of the bag holder and the second transverse dimension may be greater than the dimension of the first arm such that the first attachment portion is configured to slide along the first arm. In some aspects, the first notch is positioned vertically below the opening. The second attachment portion may include a second notch extending inward from the perimeter.
Some aspects of the present disclosure include a method of forming a paper bag. The method may include folding a paper sheet to form one of the present bags. Some methods include forming a first attachment portion, forming a second attachment portion, or both. In some aspects, the method can include cutting a first notch in the bag or cutting a second notch in the bag. The first and second notch extend from a perimeter of the bag. Some methods can include attaching a portion of the first section to a portion of the second section. Additionally, or alternatively, some methods include cutting a portion of the sheet to form an opening of the bag.
The term “coupled” is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically; two items that are “coupled” may be unitary with each other. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless this disclosure explicitly requires otherwise. The term “substantially” is defined as largely but not necessarily wholly what is specified (and includes what is specified; e.g., substantially 90 degrees includes 90 degrees and substantially parallel includes parallel), as understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art. In any disclosed configuration, the term “substantially” may be substituted with “within [a percentage] of” what is specified, where the percentage includes 0.1, 1, 5, and 10 percent.
Further, an apparatus or system that is configured in a certain way is configured in at least that way, but it can also be configured in other ways than those specifically described.
The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), and “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, an apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those elements. Likewise, a method that “comprises,” “has,” or “includes” one or more steps possesses those one or more steps, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more steps.
Any configuration of any of the apparatuses, systems, and methods can consist of or consist essentially of—rather than comprise/include/have—any of the described steps, elements, and/or features. Thus, in any of the claims, the term “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of” can be substituted for any of the open-ended linking verbs recited above, in order to change the scope of a given claim from what it would otherwise be using the open-ended linking verb.
The feature or features of one configuration may be applied to other configurations, even though not described or illustrated, unless expressly prohibited by this disclosure or the nature of the configurations.
Some details associated with the configurations described above and others are described below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The following drawings illustrate by way of example and not limitation. For the sake of brevity and clarity, every feature of a given structure is not always labeled in every figure in which that structure appears. Identical reference numbers do not necessarily indicate an identical structure. Rather, the same reference number may be used to indicate a similar feature or a feature with similar functionality, as may non-identical reference numbers. The figures are drawn to scale (unless otherwise noted), meaning the sizes of the depicted elements are accurate relative to each other for at least the configuration depicted in the figures.
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an example of a paper bag of the present disclosure with a bag holder.
FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic views of the paper bag of the present disclosure engaged with the bag holder in a first and second position, respectively.
FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an example of a second configuration of the present paper bags.
FIGS. 3B and 3C are front and back views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 3A.
FIGS. 3D and 3E are left and right side views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 3A.
FIGS. 3F and 3G are top and bottom views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 3A.
FIG. 3H is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 3A in a first position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIG. 3I is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 3A in a second position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIGS. 4A-4D show a process of forming the paper bag of FIG. 3A.
FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an example of a third configuration of the present paper bags.
FIGS. 5B and 5C are front and back views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 5A.
FIGS. 5D and 5E are left and right side views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 5A.
FIGS. 5F and 5G are top and bottom views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 5A.
FIG. 5H is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 5A in a first position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIG. 5I is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 5A in a second position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIGS. 6A-6D show a process of forming the paper bag of FIG. 5A.
FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an example of a fourth configuration of the present paper bags.
FIGS. 7B and 7C are front and back views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 7A.
FIGS. 7D and 7E are left and right side views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 7A.
FIGS. 7F and 7G are top and bottom views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 7A.
FIG. 7H is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 7A in a first position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIG. 7I is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 7A in a second position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIGS. 8A and 8B show a process of forming the paper bag of FIG. 7A.
FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an example of a fifth configuration of the present paper bags.
FIG. 9B is a perspective view of another example of a fifth configuration of the present paper bags.
FIGS. 9C and 9D are front and back views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 9A.
FIGS. 9E and 9F are left and right side views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 9A.
FIGS. 9G and 9H are top and bottom views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 9A.
FIG. 9I is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 9A in a first position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIG. 9IJ is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 9A in a second position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIGS. 10A-10C show a process of forming the paper bag of FIG. 9A.
FIG. 11A is a perspective view of an example of a sixth configuration of the present paper bags.
FIGS. 11B and 11C are front and back views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 11A.
FIGS. 11D and 11E are left and right side views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 11A.
FIGS. 11F and 11G are top and bottom views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 11A.
FIG. 11H is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 11A in a first position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIG. 11I is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 11A in a second position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIGS. 12A-12E show a process of forming the paper bag of FIG. 11A.
FIG. 13A is a perspective view of an example of a seventh configuration of the present paper bags.
FIGS. 13B and 13C are front and back views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 13A.
FIGS. 13D and 13E are left and right side views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 13A.
FIGS. 13F and 13G are top and bottom views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 13A.
FIG. 13H is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 13A in a first position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIG. 13I is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 13A in a second position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIGS. 14A-14D show a process of forming the paper bag of FIG. 13A.
FIG. 15A is a perspective view of an example of an eighth configuration of the present paper bags.
FIGS. 15B and 15C are front and back views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 15A.
FIGS. 15D and 15E are left and right side views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 15A.
FIGS. 15F and 15G are top and bottom views, respectively, of the paper bag of FIG. 15A.
FIG. 15H is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 15A in a first position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIG. 15I is a perspective view of the paper bag of FIG. 15A in a second position while engaged with a bag holder system.
FIGS. 16A-16C show a process of forming the paper bag of FIG. 15A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIG. 1, shown therein and designated by the reference numeral 10 is one configuration of the present paper bags. Bag 10 is configured to engage with a bag holder 14 such that the bag can be stored in an upright position. As shown, bag holder 14 includes an arm length D1 that is a distance between two ends of an arm 18, an arm width D2 that is a distance between two different arms 18 measured orthogonal to the length of the arms, and an arm height D3 that is a distance from a base of the bag holder to an arm 18. In some configurations, bag 10 can slidably engage with arms 18 of bag holder 14. For example, bag 10 can be sized to correspond to arm width D2 of bag holder 14, such as an existing plastic bag holder. Additionally, or alternatively, bag 10 may be sized to one or more other dimensions of bag holder such as, for example, arm length D1 or arm height D3. In this way and others, bag 10 may engage with pre-existing bag holders to limit structural changes required for a retailer to use both paper and plastic bags. Accordingly, as described herein, bag 10 provides an eco-friendly bag that is more convenient for consumers than a conventional bag and is able to operate with existing retailer equipment.
As shown in FIG. 1, bag 10 includes a body 22, a first attachment portion 24 configured to engage with a first arm 18 of bag holder 14, and a second attachment portion 28 configured to engage with a second arm 18 of the bag holder. First attachment portion 24 and second attachment portion 28 can be coupled to body 22 in any suitable manner. For example, attachment portions 24, 28 can be unitary with body 22 or, in other configurations, the attachment portions can be separate from the body and attached to the body. To illustrate, FIG. 1 shows the first and second attachment portions 24, 28 being disposed laterally outward from body; however, in some configurations, first attachment portion 24 and second attachment portion 28 can be included in, or be a section of, body 22.
Body 22 defines an opening 30 and a cavity 32 configured to receive and accommodate a plurality of objects. Body 22 has a first side 34 and a second side 38 that is opposite the first side. A first section 42 and a second section 46 of body 22 are disposed between the first side and the second side and are moveable relative to one another to define cavity 32, as further described herein with reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B. Body 22 includes a paper material such as kraft paper, white paper, paperboard, recycled paper, or other suitable paper material for use as a bag. In some configurations, the paper material is extensible or semi-extensible paper. In at least some configurations, the paper material is flexible with a stretch capacity between 30 and 50 percent in the machine direction, such as a 40 percent stretch capacity.
Each of first and second attachment portions 24, 28 are configured to engage a respective arm 18 of bag holder 14. First attachment portion 24 may be closer to first side 34 of body 22 than to second side 38. Second attachment portion 28 may be closer to second side 38 of body 22 than to first side 34. For example, a majority of, up to and including all of, first and second sections 42, 46 are interposed between first and second attachment portions 24, 28. In this way and others, bag 10 first and second attachment portions 24, 28 can engage different arms 18 of bag holder 14. In some configurations, bag 10 can be sized such that a distance between a part of first attachment portion 24 and a part of second attachment portion 28 is substantially equal to arm width D2 of bag holder 14. In some configurations, a distance between a part of first attachment portion 24 and a part of second attachment portion 28 can, but need not, be greater than a width of body 22. Each of first and second attachment portions 24, 28 include a paper material as described above with respect to body 22. In some configurations, bag 10—including body 22 and first and second attachment portions 24, 28—consist of paper material and do not include other materials, such as plastic.
In some configurations, first attachment portion 24 can define one or more notch 50 that is shaped to engage arm 18 and second attachment portion 28 can define one or more notch 52 that is shaped to engage arm 18 to support body 22 in an upright position. Notch 50 may be sized in any suitable manner to engage arm 18. For example, notches 50, 52 can include an indentation that extends from an edge of bag 10, such as the perimeter edge of the bag. In some such configurations, notches 50, 52 may extend in a vertical direction from a bottom edge of bag 10, or may extend in a lateral direction from a side edge of bag 10, or combination thereof. Notches 50, 52 can be shaped in any suitable manner to engage arms and, in some configurations, the notches can include different regions with varying dimensions that allow the notches to slide along arms while still supporting bag 10. Additionally, or alternatively, notches 50, 52 can include one or more aperture in an interior of first attachment portion 24. In other configurations, first and second attachment portions 24, 28 can include a slit or loop that is configured to surround arm 18. In yet other configurations, first and second attachment portions 24, 28 can slidably engage arm 18 in another suitable manner as known in the art.
In some configurations, first attachment portion 24 can include a handle portion 54 and second attachment portion 28 can include a handle portion 56. Handle portions 54, 56 can be utilized by a user to lift bag 10, can be utilized to engage arm 18, or both. In some configurations, handle portions 54, 56 includes a strip of paper material that is attached at its ends to form a loop. Handle portions 54, 56 can be unitary or separate from body 22. For example, in some configurations, handle portions 54, 56 can extend from first section 42, second section 46, or both. In other configurations, handle portions 54, 56 can include a separate paper material that is attached to body 22 in a suitable manner, such as via an adhesive.
In some configurations, bag 10 can include a means for carrying the bag. For example, bag 10 may define one or more aperture 58 configured to receive a user's hand. Aperture 58 may be rounded or arched at one end to minimize stress points when lifting bag 10. As shown, each of first section 42 and a second section 46 can define aperture 58 that are aligned with one another. Additionally, or alternatively, bag 10 can include one or more handles 62. In some configurations, handle 62 can extend from body 22. Handle 62 can be unitary with, or separate from, body 22. In other configurations, alternative carrying means known in the art can be utilized for handling bag 10.
Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2B, an example of bag 10 is shown engaged with bag holder 14. FIG. 2A shows body 22 in a first, closed position and FIG. 2B shows the body in a second, open position in which opening 30 is larger than when the body is in the first position. As shown, second section 46 is moveable relative to first section 42 to define cavity 32 that is in communication with opening 30. In this way, a user may manipulate body 22 to move first and second sections 42, 46 away from each other to expand cavity 32 and move the first and second sections toward each other to decrease the size of the cavity. First and second attachment portions 24, 28 can engage bag holder 14 while body 22 moves between the open and closed positions. Further, first and second attachment portions 24, 28 can also slide along arm 18 of bag holder 14 to position bag 10 laterally along the bag holder.
FIGS. 3A-16C display some possible configurations of paper bags, but the present bags are not limited to the configurations shown in the figures. In these configurations, components that are similar, such as in structure or function, to components discussed with reference to FIGS. 1, 2A, and 2B are labeled with the same reference numerals and a new numeral suffix, for example “a.” The described bags may be suitable for use alone or with existing bag holders to provide a more convenient, environmentally friendly bag.
FIGS. 3A-3I show a second configuration 10a of the present bags. Bag 10a includes a body 22a, a first attachment portion 24a configured to engage with an arm 18 of bag holder 14, and a second attachment portion 28a configured to engage with another arm 18 of the bag holder. Body 22a includes a first side 34a, a second side 38a opposing the first side, and a first section 42a and a second section 46a disposed between the first side and the second side. As shown, first attachment portion 24a and second attachment portion 28a are unitary with body 22a. For example, first and second attachment portions 24a, 28a are continuous with first and second sections 42a, 46a.
First attachment portion 24a includes a plurality of notches 50a and a handle portion 54a. In the depicted configuration, each notch 50a extends inward from a perimeter 66a of bag 10a. Both notches 50a are aligned with one another in a horizontal plane to simultaneously engage portions of arm 18. As best shown in FIG. 3B, each notch 50a includes a first region 72a having a first transverse dimension D3 and a second region 76a having a second transverse dimension D4 that is greater than the first transverse dimension. In some configurations, such as that shown in FIGS. 3H and 3I, first transverse dimension D3 is less than a height D5 of arm 18 of bag holder 14. Additionally, or alternatively, second transverse dimension D4 of notch 50a can be greater than height D5 of arm 18. In some configurations, edges of notches 50a are rounded, while in other configurations the notches can be shaped differently, such as for example, rectangular or acutely angled. As describe herein, first attachment portion 24a can be configured to slide along arm 18 while supporting bag 10a.
Handle portion 54a cooperates with body 20a, for example, first side 34a to define a loop for a user to grasp while carrying bag 10a. As shown, handle portion 54a can extend above opening 30 of bag 10a. Although, notches 50a are shown as being defined by handle portion 54a, in other configurations, the notches can be positioned in other positions. For conciseness, only the features of first attachment portion 24 are described above, however, it should be understood that the description of notches 50a and handle portion 54a apply similarly to notches 52a and handle portion 56a, respectively, of second attachment portion 28. For example, each of notch 52a can include first region 72a and second region 76a.
Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4D, shown is a process for making bag 10a from a sheet 80a of paper material. As shown in FIG. 4A, sheet 80a can be a pre-fabricated sheet, for example a rectangular sheet, that is sized and shaped based on the target dimensions of bag 10a. Some of the present methods may include cutting, or otherwise making sheet 80a from a larger roll of paper material. In some configurations, Sheet 80a can have an adhesive material 84 applied to one or more sides of the sheet. In the configuration depicted in FIG. 4A, adhesive 84 is positioned at six locations of sheet 80a. Each location can include the same, or a different, adhesive depending on the stresses experienced at each location. In some configurations, the process can include applying adhesive 84 to different portions of sheet 80. However, in other configurations, sheet 80 may come pre-fabricated with adhesive 84 already applied to the sheet. In such configurations, one or more other steps may be necessary, such as removing a covering from adhesive 84, or the like.
As shown in FIGS. 4B and 4C, the method of forming bag 10a can include folding sheet 80a. For example, as shown in FIG. 4B, sheet 80a can be folded inward on both lateral sides and on both ends. In some such configurations, partial folding of the sides can be used to increase the layers of a section of bag 10a, such as handle portions 54a, 56a to increase the strength of the bags. As depicted in FIG. 4C, such folding may reveal additional portions of adhesive 84 located on an opposing side of sheet 80a. In other configurations, additional adhesive 84 may be applied after sheet 80a is folded. Some methods include folding sheet 80a multiple times. For example, as shown in FIG. 4C, sheet 80a—including the previously folded portions—is folded in half. This folding step may keep stretch direction uniform while increasing strength. In other configurations, sheet 80a can be folded any number of times to form bag 10a.
Referring now to FIG. 4D, sheet 80a can be cut to form one or more features of bag 10a. For example, FIG. 4D shows multiple cutting portions 88 that are to be cut from sheet 80a to form bag 10a. To further illustrate, a first cutting portion 88 can be cut out of sheet 80a at a first location—first attachment portion 24a to form notch 50a and a second cutting portion 88 can be cut out of the sheet at a second location—second attachment portion 28a—to form notch 52a. Because sheet 80a is folded during the cutting step, a single cut can go through multiple layers to form multiple notches that are aligned with each other. As depicted in FIG. 4D, some methods include a step of cutting an opening of bag 30a. In such configurations, removal of a cutting portion 88 can reveal opening 30a and cavity 32 of bag 10a. The cutting steps may enable bag 10a to be specifically tailored to an existing bag holder.
FIGS. 5A-5I show a third configuration 10b of the present bags. Bag 10b includes a body 22b, a first attachment portion 24b configured to engage with arm 18 of bag holder 14, and a second attachment portion 28b configured to engage with another arm 18 of the bag holder. Body 22b includes a first side 34b, a second side 38b opposing the first side, and a first section 42b and a second section 46b disposed between the first side and the second side. One of first section 42b or second section 46b may include a notch 92 at a top end-defining opening 30b. Notch 92 can allow a user to easily identify each bag 10b while a plurality of the bags are stacked together or arranged on bag holder 14. Additionally, or alternatively, first and second sections 42b, 46b can define one or more apertures for carrying bag 10b.
First attachment portion 24b may be positioned closer to first side 34b of body 22b than to second side 38b. Similarly, second attachment portion 28b may be positioned closer to second side 38b of body 22b than to first side 34b. As shown, first attachment portion 24b and second attachment portion 28b are unitary with body 22b. For example, first and second attachment portions 24b, 28b are continuous with first and second sections 42b, 46b.
First attachment portion 24b includes a notch 50b and second attachment portion 28b includes a notch 52b that extends inward from a perimeter 66b of bag 10b. As depicted, notches 50b, 52b extend orthogonally from perimeter 66b. As best shown in FIG. 5B, notches 50b, 52b include a first region 72b having a first transverse dimension D3 and a second region 76b having a second transverse dimension D4 that is greater than the first transverse dimension. In some configurations, such as that shown in FIGS. 5H and 5I, first transverse dimension D3 is less than a height D5 of arm 18 of bag holder 14. Additionally, or alternatively, second transverse dimension D4 of notch 50b can be greater than height D5 of arm 18. In some configurations, edges of notches 50b are rounded, while in other configurations the notches can be shaped differently, such as for example, rectangular or acutely angled. As describe herein, first attachment portion 24b and second attachment portion 28b can be configured to slide along arm 18 while supporting bag 10b.
Referring now to FIGS. 6A-4D, shown is a process for making bag 10b from a sheet 80b of paper material. As shown in FIG. 6A, sheet 80b can be a pre-fabricated sheet that is sized and shaped based on the target dimensions of bag 10b or can be cut from a larger area of paper material to form sheet 80b. In some configurations, Sheet 80b includes adhesive material 84 applied to one or more sides of the sheet. In some configurations, the process can include applying adhesive 84 to different portions of sheet 80b. However, in other configurations, sheet 80b may come pre-fabricated with adhesive 84 already applied to the sheet. In such configurations, one or more other steps may be necessary, such as removing a covering from adhesive 84, or the like.
As shown, the method of forming bag 10b can include folding sheet 80b. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, a portion of sheet 80b corresponding to second section 46b and second attachment portion 28b can be rotated relative to the rest of the sheet. Sheet 80b can then be folded, as shown in FIGS. 6B-6D, to create additional supportive layers to strengthen second section 46b. As shown, each additional layer can have features matching that of second section 46b, such as an aperture 58b. Further, sheet 80b can include one or more hanging portions 96, such as overhangs or corners, which strengthen specific portions of bag 10b. As shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, hanging portions may fold in while forming bag 10b to strengthen a bottom of the back at a front and back side of the bag. In this way and others, bag 10b can add additional strength at known stress locations to prevent the bag from breaking during use. Although not shown, a portion of sheet 80b corresponding to first section 42b and first attachment portion 24b may be folded in a manner similar to that shown in FIGS. 6B-6D to form bag 10b.
FIGS. 7A-7I show a fourth configuration 10c of the present bags. Bag 10c includes a body 22c, a first attachment portion 24c configured to engage with an arm 18 of bag holder 14, and a second attachment portion 28c configured to engage with another arm 18 of the bag holder. Body 22c includes a first side 34c, a second side 38c opposing the first side, and a first section 42c and a second section 46c disposed between the first side and the second side.
As shown, first attachment portion 24c and second attachment portion 28c are separate from body 22c. First attachment portion 24c may be positioned closer to first side 34c of body 22c than to second side 38c. Similarly, second attachment portion 28c may be positioned closer to second side 38c of body 22c than to first side 34c. For example, second attachment portion 28c may extend away from second side 38c, for example in a lateral direction, of bag 10c.
First attachment portion 24c includes a notch 50c and a handle portion 54c and second attachment portion 28c includes a notch 52b and a handle portion 56c. As depicted, notches 50c, 52c extends inward from a perimeter 66c of bag 10c, such as for example in an orthogonal direction from the perimeter. As best shown in FIG. 5B, notches 50c, 52c include a first region 72c having a first transverse dimension D3 and a second region 76c having a second transverse dimension D4 that is greater than the first transverse dimension. In some configurations, such as that shown in FIGS. 7H and 7I, first transverse dimension D3 is less than a height D5 of arm 18 of bag holder 14. Additionally, or alternatively, second transverse dimension D4 of notch 50c can be greater than height D5 of arm 18. As describe herein, first attachment portion 24c and second attachment portion 28c can be configured to slide along arm 18 while supporting bag 10c.
As shown, handle portion 54c extends vertically above opening 30c on first side 34c of body 22c and handle portion 56c extends vertically above the opening on second side 38c of the body. Handle portions 54c, 56c can include a strip of paper material that is folded back on itself to define a loop that can be used to carry bag 10c. In some configurations, first attachment portion 24c is disposed below opening 30c and at least part of handle portion 54c, such as a majority thereof, is disposed above opening. In this way and others, users may manipulate handle portions 54c, 56c while notches 50c, 52c are engaged with bag holder 14.
Referring now to FIGS. 8A and 8B, shown is a process for making bag 10c from a sheet 80c of paper material. As shown in FIG. 8A, sheet 80c can be a pre-fabricated sheet, such as a rectangular sheet of paper, that is sized and shaped based on the target dimensions of bag 10c or can be cut from a larger area of paper material to form sheet 80c. In some configurations, Sheet 80c includes adhesive material 84 applied to one or more sides of the sheet. In some configurations, the process can include applying adhesive 84 to different portions of sheet 80c. However, in other configurations, sheet 80c may come pre-fabricated with adhesive 84 already applied to the sheet. In such configurations, one or more other steps may be necessary, such as removing a covering from adhesive 84, or the like.
As shown, the method of forming bag 10c can include folding sheet 80c. For example, as shown in FIGS. 8A, a portion of sheet 80c, such as a side portion, can be folded multiple times. To further illustrate, sheet 80c can be folded to make corners which fold in while bag 10c forms to strengthen a bottom of the bag at each side. In some configurations, first and second attachment portions 24c, 28c can be coupled to sheet 80c during the folding process. For example, as shown in FIG. 8B, first attachment portion 24c may be disposed between two sections of sheet 80c corresponding to first side 34c of body 22c and adhered to the sheet 80c. First attachment portion 24c can be positioned relative to sheet such that handle portion 54c extends upwards to a target height and notch 50c extends outwards to a target width. Second attachment portion 28c can be attached in a similar manner as first attachment portion 24c. In this way and others, bag 10c can be adjusted to fit a particular bag holder, such as a pre-existing bag holder for plastic bags.
FIGS. 9A-9J show a fifth configuration 10d of the present bags. Bag 10d includes a body 22d, a first attachment portion 24d configured to engage with an arm 18 of bag holder 14, and a second attachment portion 28d configured to engage with another arm 18 of the bag holder. Body 22d includes a first side 34d, a second side 38d opposing the first side, and a first section 42d and a second section 46d disposed between the first side and the second side. In some configurations, first and second sections 42d, 46d can define an aperture 58d for carrying bag 10d; however, in other configurations, such as that shown in FIG. 9B, a handle 62d can be coupled to the first and second sections. Handle 62d can have flaps or gussets that can bolster the handle to provide additional strength.
First attachment portion 24d may be positioned closer to first side 34d of body 22d than to second side 38d. Similarly, second attachment portion 28d may be positioned closer to second side 38d of body 22d than to first side 34d. As shown, first attachment portion 24d and second attachment portion 28d are unitary with body 22d. For example, first and second attachment portions 24d, 28d may be continuous with first and second sides 34d, 38d, respectively.
First attachment portion 24d can include a notch 50d and second attachment portion 28d can include a notch 52d, each of which extends inward from a perimeter 66d of bag 10d. As depicted, notches 50d, 52d extend away from perimeter 66d at an angle. In some configurations, notches 50d, 52d can extend away from perimeter by a distance that is greater than a height D5 of arm 18. Notches 50d, 52d can be uniform and shape and extend substantially in a vertical plane. In this way and others, notches 50d, 52d can hang over arms 18 and slide along the arms while supporting bag 10d. In some configurations, edges of notches 50d, 52d are rounded, while in other configurations the notches can be shaped differently, such as for example, rectangular or angled. As describe herein, first attachment portion 24d and second attachment portion 28d can be configured to slide along arm 18 while supporting bag 10d.
Referring now to FIGS. 10A-10C, shown is a process for making bag 10d from a sheet 80d of paper material. As shown in FIG. 8A, sheet 80d can be a pre-fabricated sheet that is sized and shaped based on the target dimensions of bag 10d or can be cut from a larger area of paper material to form sheet 80d. In some configurations, sheet 80d includes adhesive material 84 applied to one or more sides of the sheet. In some configurations, the process can include applying adhesive 84 to different portions of sheet 80d. However, in other configurations, sheet 80d may come pre-fabricated with adhesive 84 already applied to the sheet. In such configurations, one or more other steps may be necessary, such as removing a covering from adhesive 84, or the like.
As shown in FIGS. 10A-10B, the method of forming bag 10d can include folding sheet 80d. For example, sheet 80d can be folded inward on both lateral sides. In some such configurations, partial folding of the sides can be used to create gussets and increase the strength of a section of bag 10d. As depicted in FIG. 10B, sheet 80d can be folded multiple times, such as by folding the previously folded portions in half. In other configurations, sheet 80d can be folded any number of times to form bag 10d. Referring now to FIG. 10D, sheet 80d can be cut to form one or more features of bag 10d. For example, notches 50d, 52d and aperture 58d can be cut from sheet 80d to form bag 10d. The cutting steps may enable bag 10d to be specifically tailored to an existing bag holder.
FIGS. 11A-11I show a sixth configuration 10e of the present bags. Bag 10e includes a body 22e, a first attachment portion 24e configured to engage with an arm 18 of bag holder 14, and a second attachment portion 28e configured to engage with another arm 18 of the bag holder. Body 22e includes a first side 34e, a second side 38e opposing the first side, and a first section 42e and a second section 46e disposed between the first side and the second side. In some configurations, first and second sections 42e, 46e can define an aperture 58e for carrying bag 10e.
First attachment portion 24e may be positioned closer to first side 34e of body 22e than to second side 38e. Similarly, second attachment portion 28e may be positioned closer to second side 38e of body 22e than to first side 34e. As shown, first attachment portion 24e and second attachment portion 28e are unitary with body 22e. For example, first and second attachment portions 24e, 28e may be continuous with a portion of first and second sides 34e, 38e, respectively. As best shown in FIGS. 11H and 11I, first and second attachment portions 24e, 28e may be moveable relative to body 22e. For example, first and second attachment portions 24e, 28e can rotate relative to first side 34e and second side 38e, respectively.
First attachment portion 24e can include a notch 50e and second attachment portion 28e can include a notch 52e, each of which extends inward from a perimeter 66e of bag 10e. As depicted, notches 50e, 52e extend orthogonally away from perimeter 66e. In some configurations, notches 50e, 52e can extend away from perimeter by a distance that is greater than a height D5 of arm 18. Notches 50e, 52e can be uniform and shape and extend substantially in a vertical plane. In this way and others, notches 50e, 52e can hang over arms 18 and slide along the arms while supporting bag 10e. In some configurations, edges of notches 50e, 52e are rounded, while in other configurations the notches can be shaped differently, such as for example, rectangular or angled. As describe herein, first attachment portion 24e and second attachment portion 28e can be configured to slide along arm 18 while supporting bag 10e.
Referring now to FIGS. 12A-12E, shown is a process for making bag 10e from a sheet 80e of paper material. As shown in FIG. 12A, sheet 80e can be a pre-fabricated sheet, that is sized and shaped based on the target dimensions of bag 10e or can be cut from a larger area of paper material to form sheet 80e. In some configurations, sheet 80e includes adhesive material 84 applied to one or more sides of the sheet. In some configurations, the process can include applying adhesive 84 to different portions of sheet 80e. However, in other configurations, sheet 80e may come pre-fabricated with adhesive 84 already applied to the sheet. In such configurations, one or more other steps may be necessary, such as removing a covering from adhesive 84, or the like.
As shown in FIGS. 12A-12D, the method of forming bag 10e can include folding sheet 80e. For example, sheet 80e can be folded in half along a lateral axis. In some configurations, a portion of sheet 80e corresponding to a bottom of bag may be folded inward while the remainder of sheet is folded in half. As shown in FIG. 12B, sheet 80e, after being folded in half, can be partially folded inward on one side to reveal a strip of adhesive 48. Referring now to FIGS. 12B-12D, an end portion of sheet 80e can be folded inward and the portion of sheet with the strip of adhesive 48 can be folded on tip of the end portion to form a side, such as for example first side 34e and first attachment portion 24e. This step can be repeated at an opposite side of sheet 80e to form another side, such as, for example, second side 38e and first attachment portion 28e. Once formed these sides can be folded back together to form bag 10e. Some methods of forming bag 10e can include the steps of cutting one or more features of the bag, such as for example, apertures 58e or notches 50e, 52e. The cutting step can occur prior to or after folding.
FIGS. 13A-13I show a seventh configuration 10f of the present bags. Bag 10f includes a body 22f, a first attachment portion 24f configured to engage with an arm 18 of bag holder 14, and a second attachment portion 28f configured to engage with another arm 18 of the bag holder. Body 22f includes a first side 34f, a second side 38f opposing the first side, and a first section 42f and a second section 46f disposed between the first side and the second side. In some configurations, first and second sections 42f, 46f can define an aperture 58f for carrying bag 10f.
First attachment portion 24f may be positioned closer to first side 34f of body 22f than to second side 38f. Similarly, second attachment portion 28f may be positioned closer to second side 38f of body 22f than to first side 34f. As shown, first attachment portion 24f and second attachment portion 28f are unitary with body 22f. First attachment portion 24f can include a notch 50f and second attachment portion 28f can include a notch 52f. Notches 50f, 52f can be defined by an inner portion of the respective attachment portion. For example, notches 50f, 52f can correspond to an aperture defined by first and second attachment portions 24f, 28f, respectively. In some configurations, notches 50f, 52f can be elliptical, however, in other configurations, the notches can be rectangular, polygonal, angled, or otherwise rounded. A height of each notch 50f, 52f can be greater than a height D5 of arm 18. As describe herein, first attachment portion 24f and second attachment portion 28f can be configured to slide along arm 18 while supporting bag 10f.
Referring now to FIGS. 14A-14D, shown is a process for making bag 10f from a sheet 80f of paper material. As shown in FIG. 14A, sheet 80f can be a pre-fabricated sheet, that is sized and shaped based on the target dimensions of bag 10f or can be cut from a larger area of paper material to form sheet 80f. In some configurations, sheet 80f includes adhesive material 84 applied to one or more sides of the sheet. In some configurations, the process can include applying adhesive 84 to different portions of sheet 80f. However, in other configurations, sheet 80f may come pre-fabricated with adhesive 84 already applied to the sheet. In such configurations, one or more other steps may be necessary, such as removing a covering from adhesive 84, or the like.
As shown in FIGS. 14A-14D, the method of forming bag 10f can include folding sheet 80f. For example, each edge of sheet 80f can be folded inward toward the center in an accordion like manner. As shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C, side portions of sheet 80f corresponding to first and second sides can fold laterally inwards while other panels of the sheet overlie each other to form the remainder of bag 10f. Some methods of forming bag 10e can include the steps of cutting one or more features of the bag, such as for example, apertures 58f or notches 50f, 52f. The cutting step can occur prior to or after folding.
FIGS. 15A-15I show an eighth configuration 10g of the present bags. Bag 10g includes a body 22g, a first attachment portion 24g configured to engage with an arm 18 of bag holder 14, and a second attachment portion 28g configured to engage with another arm 18 of the bag holder. Body 22g includes a first side 34g, a second side 38g opposing the first side, and a first section 42g and a second section 46g disposed between the first side and the second side.
As shown, first attachment portion 24g and second attachment portion 28g are separate from body 22g. First attachment portion 24g may be positioned closer to first side 34g of body 22g than to second side 38g. Similarly, second attachment portion 28g may be positioned closer to second side 38g of body 22g than to first side 34g. For example, second attachment portion 28g may extend away from second side 38g, for example in a vertical direction, of bag 10g.
First attachment portion 24g a handle portion 54g and second attachment portion 28g includes a handle portion 56g. As shown, handle portion 54g extends vertically above opening 30g on first side 34g of body 22g and handle portion 56g extends vertically above the opening on second side 38g of the body. Handle portions 54g, 56g can include a strip of paper material that extends from first section 42g to second section 46g to define a loop that can be used to carry bag 10g. As best shown in FIGS. 15H and 15I, handle portions 54g, 56g may be moveable between an engaged position, as shown in FIG. 15H, and a carrying position, as shown in FIG. 15A. In the engage position, handle portions 54g, 56g can fold over itself to engage arm 18. Each of handle portions 54g, 56fg can be sufficiently stiff to support the weight of bag 10g in both the open and closed positions.
Referring now to FIGS. 16A-16C, shown is a process for making bag 10g from a sheet 80g of paper material. As shown in FIG. 16A, two sheets 80g can be used to form bag 10g. Sheets 80g can be pre-fabricated sheet or can be cut from a larger area of paper material to form the sheets. In some configurations, sheets 80g includes adhesive material 84 applied to one or more sides of the sheet. In some configurations, the process can include applying adhesive 84 to different portions of sheet 80g. However, in other configurations, sheet 80g may come pre-fabricated with adhesive 84 already applied to the sheet. In such configurations, one or more other steps may be necessary, such as removing a covering from adhesive 84, or the like.
Some methods of forming bag 10g may include the steps of attaching first attachment portion 24g or second attachment portion 28g to sheets 80g. For example, a first end of first and second attachment portions 24g, 28g can be attached to one sheet 80g and a second end of the first and second attachment portions can be attached to another sheet 80g. As shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B, some methods of forming bag 10g can include folding sheets 80g. For example, each sheet 80g can be folded inward from a lateral edge of the sheet to overlie an end of first and second attachment portions 24g, 28g. Adhesive 84 can be used on both sides of the attachment portions to securely bond the attachment portions to sheets 80g. In some methods, first and second attachment portions 24g, 28g can be folded, such as for example folding in half, to attach the sheets 80g together as shown in FIG. 16B. Additional folds can be made to form bag 10g and, in some configurations, one or more cutting steps may be performed to create different features as described herein.
The above specification and examples provide a complete description of the structure and use of illustrative configurations. Although certain configurations have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual configurations, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed configurations without departing from the scope of this invention. For example, certain features of one configuration can be replaced or added to other configurations. To illustrate, a configuration having a handle can be also include an aperture in addition to or in place of the handle. The modifications are not limited to these two features and a skilled person would understand multiple aspects of the described configurations can be utilized in other configurations.
As such, the various illustrative configurations of the methods and systems are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims, and configurations other than the one shown may include some or all of the features of the depicted configurations. For example, elements may be omitted or combined as a unitary structure, connections may be substituted, or both. Further, where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples having comparable or different properties and/or functions, and addressing the same or different problems. Similarly, it will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one configuration or may relate to several configurations. Accordingly, no single implementation described herein should be construed as limiting and implementations of the disclosure may be suitably combined without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.
The previous description of the disclosed implementations is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosed implementations. Various modifications to these implementations will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope possible consistent with the principles and novel features as defined by the following claims. The claims are not intended to include, and should not be interpreted to include, means-plus- or step-plus-function limitations, unless such a limitation is explicitly recited in a given claim using the phrase(s) “means for” or “step for,” respectively.
Patent Application
20240010392
