PRODUCT PACKAGE

INTRODUCTION TO THE INVENTION

The present disclosure is directed to product packaging and includes product packaging allowing for opening of a sealed product by individuals having limited appendage dexterity. The present disclosure includes product packaging that may be used to house medical equipment a quadriplegic or other disabled person may gain access to without requiring finger gripping of the product packaging or features of the product package.

It is a first aspect of the present invention to provide a product package comprising: (a) an enclosure having at least one tear strip defining an intended opening; and, (b) a loop operatively coupled to the tear strip, where the loop has an available circumference between twelve and twenty-four inches.

In a more detailed embodiment of the first aspect, the enclosure embodies a cuboid shape, and the enclosure houses a sterilized product. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the enclosure embodies an envelope shape, and the enclosure houses a sterilized product. In a further detailed embodiment, the enclosure embodies a cylindrical shape, and the enclosure houses a sterilized product. In still a further detailed embodiment, the tear strip extends across multiple sides of the cuboid shape. In a more detailed embodiment, the tear strip extends along a perimeter of at least one of the sides of the cuboid shape. In a more detailed embodiment, at least a portion of the tear strip is straight. In another more detailed embodiment, at least a portion of the tear strip is arcuate. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the loop is a continuation of the tear strip that is separable from the enclosure without compromising the integrity of the enclosure. In still another more detailed embodiment, the tear strip comprises at least one of a scored band, a ribbon, and a fiber.

In yet another more detailed embodiment of the first aspect, the tear strip comprises a fiber adhered to the exterior of the enclosure, where an adherence between the fiber and the enclosure is greater than an adherence between the enclosure itself. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the tear strip comprises a plastic ribbon adhered to the exterior of the enclosure, where an adherence between the plastic ribbon and the enclosure is greater than an adherence between the enclosure itself. In a further detailed embodiment, the enclosure is fabricated from at least one of a metal foil, a polymer, and a paper.

It is a second aspect of the present invention to provide a method of manufacturing a product package comprising forming a blank that may be reconfigured into an enclosure, the blank including at least one tear strip defining an intended opening of the enclosure, where the tear strip is coupled to a loop having a circumference between twelve and twenty-four inches.

In a more detailed embodiment of the second aspect, the enclosure comprises at least one of a cuboid shape, an envelope shape, and a cylindrical shape, and the enclosure is configured to house a sterilized product. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the method further includes mounting a tear strip to the blank so that the tear strip extends across multiple sides of the enclosure. In a further detailed embodiment, the method further includes mounting a tear strip to the blank so that the tear strip extends along a perimeter of at least one side of the enclosure. In still a further detailed embodiment, the tear strip includes at least one of a straight section and an arcuate section. In a more detailed embodiment, the tear strip comprises at least one of a scored band, a ribbon, and a fiber. In a more detailed embodiment, the blank comprises at least one of a metal foil, a polymer, and a paper.

It is a third aspect of the present invention to provide a product package comprising: (a) an enclosure having a reinforcing strip, and (b) a loop operatively coupled to the reinforcing strip, where the loop has an available circumference between twelve and twenty-four inches, where the reinforcing strip is configured to cause separation between walls of the enclosure prior to disengagement between the reinforcing strip and one of the walls.

In a more detailed embodiment of the third aspect, the enclosure embodies a pouch shape, and the enclosure houses a sterilized product. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the enclosure embodies an envelope shape, and the enclosure houses a sterilized product. In a further detailed embodiment, the enclosure embodies a cylindrical shape, and the enclosure houses a sterilized product. In still a further detailed embodiment, the reinforcing strip extends across multiple walls. In a more detailed embodiment, the reinforcing strip extends along a perimeter of at least one of the walls. In a more detailed embodiment, at least a portion of the reinforcing strip is straight. In another more detailed embodiment, at least a portion of the reinforcing strip is arcuate. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the loop and the reinforcing strip are not separable from the enclosure without compromising the integrity of the enclosure. In still another more detailed embodiment, the reinforcing strip comprises at least one of a band, a ribbon, and a fiber.

In yet another more detailed embodiment of the third aspect, the reinforcing strip comprises a fiber adhered to the exterior of the enclosure, where an adherence between the fiber and the enclosure is greater than an adherence between the enclosure itself. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the reinforcing strip comprises a plastic ribbon adhered to the exterior of the enclosure, where an adherence between the plastic ribbon and the enclosure is greater than an adherence between the enclosure itself. In a further detailed embodiment, the enclosure is fabricated from at least one of a metal foil, a polymer, and a paper.

It is a fourth aspect of the present invention to provide a method of manufacturing a product package comprising: (a) forming a blank that may be reconfigured into an enclosure, the blank including a reinforcing strip, where the reinforcing strip is coupled to a loop having a circumference between twelve and twenty four inches; and, (b) mounting walls of the blank to one another to form the enclosure, where the walls are mounted to one another and configured to be separable from one another prior to separation of the reinforcing strip from the enclosure.

In a more detailed embodiment of the fourth aspect, the enclosure comprises at least one of a pouch shape, an envelope shape, and a cylindrical shape, and the enclosure is configured to house a sterilized product. In yet another more detailed embodiment, the method further includes mounting the reinforcing strip to the blank so that the reinforcing strip extends across multiple walls of the enclosure. In a further detailed embodiment, the method further includes mounting the reinforcing strip to the blank so that the reinforcing strip extends along a perimeter of at least one side of the enclosure. In still a further detailed embodiment, the reinforcing strip includes at least one of a straight section and an arcuate section. In a more detailed embodiment, the reinforcing strip comprises at least one of a band, a ribbon, and a fiber. In a more detailed embodiment, the blank comprises at least one of a metal foil, a polymer, and a paper.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is an elevated perspective view of a first exemplary product package shown with a loop in an expanded orientation.

FIG. 1B is an elevated perspective view of the first exemplary product package of FIG. 1A shown with the loop mounted to the exterior of the package.

FIG. 2 is an elevated perspective view of a flat form precursor to the exemplary product package of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an elevated perspective view of the first exemplary product package of FIG. 1 and folded open post removal of the tear strip to access a product housed therein.

FIG. 4 is an elevated perspective view of a second exemplary product package in accordance with the instant disclosure shown with the loop in an expanded orientation.

FIG. 5 is an elevated perspective view of a flat form precursor to the exemplary product package of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is an elevated perspective view of the second exemplary product package of FIG. 4 post removal of the tear strip to access a product housed therein.

FIG. 7 is an elevated perspective view of a third exemplary product package in accordance with the instant disclosure shown with a loop in a shipping, stowed position.

FIG. 8 is an elevated perspective view of the third exemplary product package of FIG. 7 shown with the loop in an expanded orientation.

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the third exemplary product package of FIG. 7.

FIG. 10 is a profile view of the third exemplary product package of FIG. 7 just prior to opening via insertion of appendages through respective loops of the product package and movement of the appendages away from one another.

FIG. 11 is an elevated perspective view of the third exemplary product package of FIG. 10, shown post tensioning of the loops to cause at least one of the tear strips to tear and provide access to a device housed within the package.

FIG. 12 is an elevated perspective view of a third alternate exemplary product package in accordance with the instant disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a top view of an exemplary product blank used to fabricate the product package of FIG. 12, having been sealed at one longitudinal end and providing a second, opposite longitudinal end open for product loading.

FIG. 14 is an elevated perspective view of the third alternate exemplary product package of FIG. 12, shown post insertion of appendages through respective loops of the product package and post movement of the appendages away from one another to open a longitudinal end of the third alternate exemplary product package.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are described and illustrated below to encompass exemplary product packages (for sterile and non-sterile products) and include product packages that allow for opening of a sealed product by individuals having limited appendage dexterity. Of course, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the method and embodiments discussed below are exemplary in nature and may be reconfigured without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. However, for clarity and precision, the exemplary embodiments as discussed below may include optional steps, methods, and features that one of ordinary skill should recognize as not being a requisite to fall within the scope of the present invention.

Referencing FIGS. 1A-2, a first exemplary product package 100 comprises a cuboid enclosure 108 that includes six external sides 110a-110f, with four of the sides comprising rectangular planar surfaces 110a-110d connected to one another and oriented at consecutive right angles. The two other sides 110e, 110f may be characterized as ends and comprise rectangular planar surfaces perpendicular to each of the other four sides 110a-110d. The sides 110a-110f, when assembled into a cuboid shape, demarcate an interior region or cavity 112 that may be occupied by a medical device 114 (see FIG. 3). In exemplary form, the medical device 114 may comprise a catheter, such as the Foley catheter available from C. R. Bard, Inc. Suitable non-limiting examples of catheters, and coatings therefor, can be found in Provisional Patent Application No. 62/042,125 and PCT Publication No. WO 2016/033234, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Nevertheless, those skilled in the art will understand that other medical devices besides catheters may be housed within the exemplary product package 100 including, without limitation, medical devices within home care settings (e.g., intermittent catheters, feedings tubes, diabetes supplies, ostomy supplies, etc.) and hospital or nursing home settings (e.g., intravenous preparation kits, urinary drainage systems, nasogastric tubes, surgical trays, etc.) for ease of opening by caregivers (trained medical or untrained) optionally using gloves or other personal protective equipment.

In addition to the six sides/panels 110a-110f, the exemplary product package 100 includes one or more tear strips 120 to facilitate easy opening of the product package and access to the medical device 114 housed therein. By way of example, an exemplary tear strip 120 may extend across an entire lengthwise dimension of both ends 110e, 110f and across an entire lengthwise dimension of one or more of the adjoining rectangular sides 110d (see FIG. 2). Alternatively, a tear strip 120 may extend in a continuous loop across one or more sides 110a-110f or may comprise a discontinuous shape that travels across one or more of the sides 110a-110f. Regardless of the shape and orientation of the tear strip 120, a loop 122 or other partially circumscribing shape may be coupled to the tear strip to allow a limited dexterity user to place his/her hand or appendage stub through the loop (or other shape) and pull against the loop as a means to tension the tear strip 120, thereby causing the tear strip to separate from one or more of the sides 110a-110f to create an opening or divide in the package 100 providing access to the interior region or cavity 112. Exemplary loop 122 sizes may be reconfigurable or may vary depending upon the size of a user's hands or appendage stub circumference, but generally include circumferences ranging between twelve and twenty-four inches. In exemplary form, the loop 122 may be configured to lie flat on one or more sides of the product package 100 (see FIG. 1B).

The exemplary product package 100 may be fabricated from various materials and take on various shapes and sizes. For example, the sides 110a-110f may be fabricated from various materials using single or multiple plies including, without limitation, paper, reinforced cardboard, corrugated materials, polymers (such as high and low density polyethylene), and metals (such as aluminum foil). For purposes of explanation only, the product package sides 110a-110f may be fabricated from Tyvek (high density polyethylene), which allow the product 114 to be sterilized post product enclosure inside the package 100 via passage of ethylene oxide throught the product package. Those skilled in the art are familiar with Tyvek's material properties that, among other features, prohibit transmission of germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) and allow transmission of ethylene oxide. Alternatively, some or all sides 110a-110f may include a foil sheet that likewise prohibits transmission of germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) and allows for sterilization of the medical device 114 using gamma radiation. In addition to the sides 110a-110f potentially being fabricated from numerous materials, the tear strip 120 may be fabricated from numerous materials.

By way of example, each tear strip 120 may comprise a material separate from the sides 110a-110f, or may comprise the same or a similar material as the sides. In exemplary form, to the extent the tear strip 120 is fabricated from the same material(s) as the enclosure 108, the tear strip 120 may comprise a section of the enclosure 108 that is scored or otherwise formed to facilitate a tear in a predetermined direction. Alternatively, or in addition, the tear strip 120 may comprise an additional component of the enclosure material comprising the sides 110a-110f to facilitate a tear in the enclosure 108 in a predetermined direction or along a predetermined path. Alternatively, or in addition, the tear strip 120 may comprise a material different from the enclosure material, which is mounted or otherwise bonded to the enclosure 108 to facilitate a tear in a predetermined direction or along a predetermined path. Examples of tear strips 120 include, without limitation, ribbons and filaments fabricated from polymers, animals, and plants. By way of further example, in the context of the tear strip 120 comprising a ribbon, the ribbon may comprise a narrow plastic band. In the context of the tear strip 120 comprising a filament, the filament may comprise a braided fiber. In either instance, the plastic band or fiber may be adhered to the enclosure material(s). Those skilled in the art will readily understand the obvious configurations and materials that may be used as the tear strip 120 in view of the foregoing. As one might imagine, the shape of the product package 100 may be dictated by the product to be housed therein.

Exemplary shapes of the product package 100 are virtually unbounded. While the foregoing enclosure 108 embodies a cuboid shape, alternative shapes may be readily utilized such as, without limitation, cylindrical, triangular, pyramidal, spherical, envelope, and pouch.

In exemplary form, the loop 122 may be fabricated from the same or similar material as the tear strip 120, or may be fabricated from a dissimilar material to the tear strip. Regardless of the material chosen for the loop 122, the loop is mounted to the tear strip 120 so that tension on the loop will result in separation of the tear strip from the enclosure 108 prior to separation between the loop and the tear strip. By way of example, the loop 122 may be fabricated from the same material as the tear strip 120 so that a previously free end of the tear strip, which comprises the loop, is coupled to the remaining portion of the tear strip. In this fashion, the loop 122 is deformable and may be laid flat and applied temporarily to an exterior of one or more of the panels 110a-110f for compact shipping of the product package 100. Examples include applying an organopolysiloxane adhesive to at least one of the loop 122 and the exterior panels 110a-110f to temporarily retain the loop against the enclosure 108 just prior to a user dislodging the loop as a predicate to accessing an interior of the package 100.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, an exemplary method of fabricating and utilizing the exemplary product package 100 is described. By way of example, a person with limited dexterity or other physical limitation may find it difficult or nearly impossible to open conventional product packaging. Consequently, the exemplary product package 100 addresses a need in the art for a product package that is significantly easier to open by nearly all persons, regardless of any afflicting physical limitations.

As depicted in FIG. 2, the product package 100 may start out as a flat blank 150 comprising one or more layers. The layers may be scored or otherwise physically processed to facilitate folding of the blank 150 along dedicated fold lines 152. By way of example, the dedicated fold lines 152 allow the blank 150 to be folded so that the each of four rectangular panels 110a-110d comprising the exterior sides may be folded perpendicular to an adjacent side, where the last rectangular panel 110z is overlapped by the first panel 110a and mounted thereto using any number of mounting techniques such as, without limitation, heat sealing, adhesives, and welding. Not only are the panels 110a-110d, 110z folded, but so too are the panels 110e, 110f that comprise the ends so that each of the panels 110e, 110f is oriented perpendicular to the fourth panel 110d.

In exemplary form, tabs 154 are associated with the first, second, and third panels 110a-110c. These tabs 154 are connected to each of the panels 110a-110c when in a flat blank form. But, when the sides 110a-110d are folded along the fold lines 152, the tabs 154 are also folded inward at right angles along corresponding fold lines 152 so that the folded tabs 154 can contact one another and are secured to one another to delineate and retain an enclosure shape. By way of example, the folded tabs 154 may be mounted to one another using any number of mounting techniques such as, without limitation, heat sealing, adhesives, and welding.

In this exemplary embodiment, when in the flat blank 150 form, the tear strip 120 may be mounted to exterior surfaces of the panels 110d-110f and oriented linearly across an entire dimension of the two end panels 110e, 110f and across an entire dimension of one of the side panels 110d. In this fashion, when the panels 110a-110z are folded and mounted to one another, the tear strip 120 extends across three sides of the package 100. Exemplary mounting techniques include, without limitation, heat sealing, adhesives, welding, and intervening layering.

Turning to FIGS. 1A-3, a product 114 is loaded into the interior of the product package 100 prior to sealing or otherwise mounting all of the panels together to create the enclosure 108. In exemplary form, prior to or post introduction of the product 114 into the package 100, the product may be sealed or otherwise prepared to exclude contaminants from accessing the product. By way of example, the product 114 and/or package 100 may be subjected to one or more finishing processes that may include, without limitation, sterilization (internal and external) and nitrogen flushing. In any event, post introduction of the product 114 into the package 100, the package is closed to inhibit unintended access to the product from outside the product package 100. Post closure, the product package 100 is ready to be opened using the following method, for example.

As discussed previously, the product 114 may comprise a medical device such as a one-time use or disposable catheter. In circumstances where the intended user of the product 114 may have compromised dexterity or may otherwise benefit from the ease of accessing the product from the exemplary product package 100, the user may dislodge the loop 122 from the exterior of the enclosure 108 by overcoming the attachment of a temporary adhesive. Upon dislodgment of the loop from the enclosure, the loop 122 may be take on an expanded shape (see FIG. 1A) to allow a user to insert his hand or appendage through the loop. It is also within the scope of the disclosure that the loop 122 includes a cinch or other structure to vary the diameter of the loop to create a custom fit. Though a cinch is not required, the user only needs to pass an appendage or other object through the loop 122 and tension the loop to correspondingly tension the tear strip 120. Upon securing the product package 100 (such as placing the package 100 between the user's legs) and creating a predetermined tension on the tear strip 120 via tensioning of the loop 122, the tear strip 120 tears away from the enclosure to create a divide or opening between previously adjacent sections of the enclosure 108. In exemplary form, the tear strip 120 initially causes separation between adjacent components of the end panel 110e. Continued tensioning of the tear strip 120 post removal of the tear strip 120 from the end panel 110e is operative to create separation between adjacent components of the side panel 110d. Continued tensioning of the tear strip 120 post removal of the tear strip 120 from the side panel 110d is operative to create separation between adjacent components of the second end panel 110f. Eventually, if continued tension is high enough and lasts long enough, the tear strip 120 may be completely separated from the enclosure 108 and discarded. Upon partial or complete removal of the tear strip 120 from the enclosure 108, the remaining product package 100 may be laid open (see FIG. 3) by folding the package along the fold lines 152 in between the panels 110a-110c to expose the contents, in this case the product 114. The product 114 may then be accessed directly by the user (without requiring removal of additional product packaging) and utilized without requiring the user to perform any complicated opening steps.

Referencing FIGS. 4-6, a second exemplary product package 200 comprises a cuboid enclosure 208 that includes six external sides 210a-210f, with four of the sides comprising rectangular planar surfaces 210a-210d connected to one another and oriented at consecutive right angles. The two other sides 210e, 210f may be characterized as ends and comprise rectangular planar surfaces perpendicular to each of the other four sides 210a-210d. The sides 210a-210f, when assembled into a cuboid shape, demarcate an interior region or cavity 212 that may be occupied by a medical device 214. In exemplary form, the medical device 214 may comprise a catheter, such as the Foley catheter available from C. R. Bard, Inc. Suitable non-limiting examples of catheters, and coatings therefor, can be found in Provisional Patent Application No. 62/042,125 and PCT Publication No. WO 2016/033234, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Nevertheless, those skilled in the art will understand that other medical devices besides catheters may be housed within the exemplary product package 200 including, without limitation, medical devices within home care settings (e.g., intermittent catheters, feedings tubes, diabetes supplies, ostomy supplies, etc.) and hospital or nursing home settings (e.g., intravenous preparation kits, urinary drainage systems, nasogastric tubes, surgical trays, etc.) for ease of opening by caregivers (trained medical or untrained) optionally wearing gloves or other personal protective equipment.

In addition to the six sides/panels 210a-210f, the exemplary product package 200 includes one or more tear strips 220 to facilitate easy opening of the product package and access to the medical device 214 housed therein. By way of example, an exemplary tear strip 220 may extend along almost the entire perimeter of one or more of the sides 210d (see FIG. 5). Alternatively, the tear strip 220 may extend in a continuous loop along the entire perimeter of one of the sides 210d. Regardless of the shape and orientation of the tear strip 220, a loop 222 or other partially circumscribing shape may be coupled to the tear strip to allow a limited dexterity user to place his/her hand or appendage stub through the loop (or other shape) and pull against the loop as a means to tension the tear strip 220, thereby causing the tear strip to separate from one or more of the sides to create an opening or divide in the package 200 providing access to the interior region or cavity 212. Exemplary loop 222 sizes may be reconfigurable or may vary depending upon the size of a user's hands or appendage stub circumference, but generally include circumferences ranging between twelve and twenty-four inches. In exemplary form, the loop 222 may be configured to lie flat on one or more sides of the product package 200.

The exemplary product package 200 may be fabricated from various materials and take on various shapes and sizes. For example, the sides 210a-210f may be fabricated from various materials in single or multiple plies including, without limitation, paper, reinforced cardboard, corrugated materials, polymers (such as high and low-density polyethylene), and metals (such as aluminum foil). For purposes of explanation only, the product packaging sides 210a-210f may be fabricated from Tyvek (high density polyethylene), which allow the product 214 to be sterilized via passage of ethylene oxide into the interior of the product package. Those skilled in the art are familiar with Tyvek's material properties that, among other features, prohibit transmission of germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) and allow transmission of ethylene oxide. Alternatively, some or all sides 210a-210f may include a foil sheet that likewise prohibits transmission of germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) and allows for sterilization of the medical device 214 using gamma radiation. In addition to the sides 210a-210f potentially being fabricated from numerous materials, the tear strip 220 may be fabricated from numerous materials.

By way of example, each tear strip 220 may comprise a material separate from the sides 210a-210f, or may comprise the same or a similar material as the sides. In exemplary form, to the extent the tear strip 220 is fabricated from the same material(s) as the enclosure 208, the tear strip 220 may comprise a section of the enclosure 208 that is scored or otherwise formed to facilitate a tear in a predetermined direction. Alternatively, or in addition, the tear strip 220 may comprise an additional component of the enclosure material comprising a side 210d to facilitate a tear in the enclosure 208 in a predetermined direction or along a predetermined path. Alternatively, or in addition, the tear strip 220 may comprise a material different from the enclosure material, which is mounted or otherwise bonded to the enclosure 208 to facilitate a tear in a predetermined direction or along a predetermined path. Examples of tear strips 220 include, without limitation, ribbons and filaments fabricated from polymers, animals, and plants. By way of further example, in the context of the tear strip 220 comprising a ribbon, the ribbon may comprise a narrow plastic band. In the context of the tear strip 120 comprising a filament, the filament may comprise a braided fiber. In either instance, the plastic band or fiber may be adhered to the enclosure material(s). Those skilled in the art will readily understand the obvious configurations and materials that may be used as the tear strip 220 in view of the foregoing. As one might imagine, the shape of the product package 200 may be dictated by the product to be housed therein.

Exemplary shapes of the product package are virtually unbounded. While the foregoing enclosure 208 embodies a cuboid shape, alternative shapes may be readily utilized such as, without limitation, cylindrical, triangular, pyramidal, spherical, envelope, and pouch.

In exemplary form, the loop 222 may be fabricated from the same or similar material as the tear strip 220, or may be fabricated from a dissimilar material to the tear strip. Regardless of the material chosen for the loop 222, the loop is mounted to the tear strip 220 so that tension on the loop will result in separation of the tear strip from the enclosure 208 prior to separation between the loop and the tear strip. By way of example, the loop 222 may be fabricated from the same material as the tear strip 220 so that a previously free end of the tear strip is coupled to the remaining portion of the tear strip. In this fashion, the loop 222 may be deformable and may be laid flat and applied temporarily to an exterior of one of the panels 210a-210f for compact shipping of the product package 200. Examples include applying an organopolysiloxane adhesive to at least one of the loop 222 and the exterior panels 210a-210f to temporarily retain the loop against the enclosure 208.

Referring to FIGS. 4-6, an exemplary method of fabricating and utilizing the exemplary product package 200 is described. By way of example, a person with limited dexterity or other physical limitations may find it difficult or nearly impossible to open conventional product packaging. Consequently, the exemplary product package 200 addresses a need in the art for a product package that is significantly easier to open by nearly all persons, regardless of any afflicting physical limitations.

As depicted in FIG. 5, the product package 200 may start out as a flat blank 250 comprising one or more layers. The layers may be scored or otherwise physically processed to facilitate folding of the blank 250 along dedicated fold lines 252. By way of example, the dedicated fold lines 252 are operative to allow the blank 250 to be folded so that the each of four rectangular panels 210a-210d comprising the sides may be folded perpendicular to an adjacent side, where the last rectangular panel 210z is overlapped by the first panel 210a and mounted thereto using any number of mounting techniques such as, without limitation, heat sealing, adhesives, and welding. Not only are the panels 210a-210d, 210z folded, but so too are the panels 210e, 210f that comprise the ends so that each of the panels 210e, 210f is oriented perpendicular to the fourth panel 210d.

In exemplary form, tabs 254 are associated with the first, second, and third panels 210a-210c. These tabs 254 are connected to each of the panels 210a-210c when in a flat blank form. But, when the sides 210a-210d are folded along the fold lines 252, the tabs 254 are also folded inward at right angles along corresponding fold lines 252 so that the folded tabs 254 can contact one another and be secured to one another to delineate and retain an enclosure shape. By way of example, the folded tabs 254 may be mounted to one another using any number of mounting techniques such as, without limitation, heat sealing, adhesives, and welding.

In this exemplary embodiment, when in the flat blank 250 form, the tear strip 220 may be mounted to the fourth panel 210d. In this fashion, when the panels 210a-210z are folded and mounted to one another, the tear strip 220 extends along the perimeter of the fourth panel 210d. Exemplary mounting techniques to secure the tear strip 220 to the fourth panel 210d include, without limitation, heat sealing, adhesives, welding, and intervening layering.

Turning back to FIGS. 4-6, a product 214 is loaded into the interior of the product package 200 prior to sealing or otherwise mounting all of the panels together to create the enclosure 208. In exemplary form, prior to or post introduction of the product 214 into the package 200, the product may be sealed or otherwise prepared to exclude contaminants from accessing the product. By way of example, the product 214 and/or packaging 200 may be subjected to one or more finishing processes that may include, without limitation, sterilization (internal and external), and nitrogen flushing. In any event, post introduction of the product 214 into the package 200, the package is closed to inhibit unintended access to the product from outside the product package 200. Post closure, the product package 200 is ready to be opened using the following exemplary method, for example.

As discussed previously, the product 214 may comprise a medical device such as a one-time use or disposable catheter. In circumstances where the intended user of the product may have compromised dexterity or may otherwise benefit from the ease of accessing the product 214 from the exemplary product package 200, the user would dislodge the loop 222 from the exterior of the enclosure 208 by overcoming the force of a temporary adhesive attaching the loop flat to the enclosure. Upon dislodgment from the enclosure, the loop 222 may take on an expanded shape to allow a user to insert his hand or appendage through the loop. It is also within the scope of the disclosure that the loop 222 includes a cinch or other structure to vary the diameter of the loop to create a custom fit. Though a cinch is not required, the user only needs to pass an appendage or other object through the loop 222 and correspondingly tension the loop to tension the tear strip 220. Upon securing the product package 200 (such as placing the package 200 between the user's legs) and creating a predetermined tension on the tear strip 220 via tensioning of the loop 222, the tear strip 220 tears away from the enclosure to create a divide or opening between previously adjacent sections of the enclosure 208. In exemplary form, the tear strip 220 initially causes separation between the fourth panel 210d and the end panel 210e. Continued tensioning of the tear strip 220 post removal of the tear strip 220 between the panels 210d, 210e is operative to create separation between these panels. Continued tensioning of the tear strip 220 post removal of the tear strip 220 from between the panels 210d, 210e is operative to create separation between adjacent panels 210d, 210a. Eventually, if continued tension is high enough and lasts long enough, the tear strip 220 can be completely separated from between the panels 210d, 210a. Post removal of the tear strip 220 between the panels 210d, 210a, continued tensioning of the tear strip 220 causes removal of the tear strip 220 from between the panels 210d, 210f and creates separation between these panels 210d, 210f. Eventually, if continued tension is high enough and lasts long enough, the tear strip 220 can be completely separated from between the panels 210d, 210f Post removal of the tear strip 220 between the panels 210d, 210f, continued tensioning of the tear strip 220 causes removal of the tear strip 220 from between the panels 210d, 210c and creates separation between these panels 210d, 210c. Eventually, if continued tension is high enough and lasts long enough, the tear strip 220 can be completely separated from between the panels 210d, 210c so that the panel 210d can be completely removed from the enclosure 208 and discarded. Upon partial or complete removal of the tear strip 220 from the enclosure 208, an opening is created in the enclosure 208 to access the product 214 housed therein. In this fashion, the product 214 may then be accessed directly by the user (without requiring removal of additional product packaging) and utilized without requiring the user to perform any complicated opening steps.

Referencing FIGS. 7-11, a third exemplary product package 300A comprises a pouch enclosure 308 that includes two external sides 310a, 310b, that may each comprise a rectangular shape, connected to one another to delineate an enclosed space 312 to be occupied by a medical device 314. In exemplary form, the medical device 314 may comprise a catheter, such as the Foley catheter available from C. R. Bard, Inc. Suitable non-limiting examples of catheters, and coatings therefor, can be found in Provisional Patent Application No. 62/042,125 and PCT Publication No. WO 2016/033234, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Nevertheless, those skilled in the art will understand that other medical devices besides catheters may be housed within the exemplary product package 300A including, without limitation, medical devices within home care settings (e.g., intermittent catheters, feedings tubes, diabetes supplies, ostomy supplies, etc.) and hospital or nursing home settings (e.g., intravenous preparation kits, urinary drainage systems, nasogastric tubes, surgical trays, etc.) for ease of opening by caregivers (trained medical or untrained) optionally wearing gloves or other personal protective equipment.

In addition to the two sides/panels 310a, 310b, the exemplary product package 300A may include one or more tear strips 320 to facilitate easy opening of the product package and access to the medical device 314 housed therein. By way of example, an exemplary tear strip 320 may extend along almost the entire perimeter of one of the sides 310a (see FIGS. 7 & 8). Alternatively, a tear strip 320 may extend as a continuous loop on either side 310a, 310b or may extend as a discontinuous length. Regardless of the shape and orientation of the tear strip 320, a loop 322 or other partially circumscribing shape may be coupled to the tear strip to allow a limited dexterity user to place his/her hand or appendage stub through the loop (or other shape) and pull against the loop as a means to tension the tear strip 320, thereby causing the tear strip to separate from one or more of the sides to create an opening or divide in the package 300A providing access to the interior region or cavity 312. Moreover, alternatively or in addition, one or both sides/panels 310a, 310b may include a loop 322 mounted thereto to facilitate grasping of either or both panels (see FIGS. 10 & 11). Exemplary loop 322 sizes can be reconfigurable or vary depending upon the size of a user's hands or appendage stub circumference, but generally include circumferences ranging between twelve and twenty-four inches. In exemplary form, each loop 322 may be configured to lie flat on one or more sides/panels 310a, 310b of the product package 300A.

The exemplary product package 300A may be fabricated from various materials and take on various shapes and sizes. For example, the sides 310a, 310b may be fabricated from various materials having single or multiple plies including, without limitation, paper, reinforced cardboard, corrugated materials, polymers (such as high and low density polyethylene), and metals (such as aluminum foil). For purposes of explanation only, the product package sides 310a, 310b may be fabricated from Tyvek (high density polyethylene), which allows the product 314 to be sterilized via passage of ethylene oxide therethrough. Those skilled in the art are familiar with Tyvek's material properties that, among other features, prohibit transmission of germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) and allow transmission of ethylene oxide. Alternatively, each or both sides 310a, 310b may include a foil sheet that likewise prohibits transmission of germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) and allows for sterilization of the medical device 314 using gamma radiation. In addition to the sides 310a, 310b potentially being fabricated from numerous materials, the tear strip 320 may be fabricated from numerous materials.

By way of example, the tear strip 320 may comprise a material separate from the sides 310a, 310b, or may comprise the same or a similar material as the sides. In exemplary form, to the extent the tear strip 320 is fabricated from the same materials as the enclosure 308, the tear strip 320 may comprise a section of the enclosure 308 that is scored or otherwise formed to facilitate a tear in a predetermined direction. Alternatively, or in addition, the tear strip 320 may comprise an additional component of the enclosure material comprising the side 310a, 310b to facilitate a tear in the enclosure 308 in a predetermined direction or along a predetermined path. Alternatively, or in addition, the tear strip 320 may comprise a material different from the enclosure material, which is mounted or otherwise bonded to the enclosure 308 to facilitate a tear in a predetermined direction or along a predetermined path. Examples of tear strips 320 include, without limitation, ribbons and filaments, either or which may be fabricated from polymers, animals, and plants. By way of further example, the ribbon may comprise a narrow plastic band and the filament may comprise a braided fiber, where the plastic band or fiber is adhered to the enclosure material(s). Those skilled in the art will readily understand the obvious configurations and materials that may be used as the tear strip 320 in view of the foregoing. As one might imagine, the shape of the product package 300A may be dictated by the product to be housed therein.

Exemplary shapes of the product package 300A are virtually unbounded. While the foregoing enclosure 308 embodies a pouch shape, alternative shapes may be readily utilized such as, without limitation, cylindrical, triangular, pyramidal, spherical, envelope, and cuboid.

In exemplary form, the loop 322 may be fabricated from the same or similar material as the tear strip 320, or may be fabricated from a dissimilar material to the tear strip. Regardless of the material chosen for the loop 322, the loop may be mounted to the tear strip 320 so that tension on the loop will result in separation of the tear strip from the enclosure 308 prior to separation between the loop and the tear strip. By way of example, the loop 322 may be fabricated from the same material as the tear strip 320 so that a previously free end of the tear strip is coupled to another portion of the tear strip. In this fashion, the loop is deformable and may be laid flat and applied temporarily to an exterior of one of the panels 310a, 310b for compact shipping of the product package 300A. Examples include applying an organopolysiloxane adhesive to at least one of the loop 322 and the exterior panels 310a, 310b to retain the loop against the enclosure 308 just prior to a user desiring to open the enclosure.

Referring to FIG. 9, an exemplary method of fabricating and utilizing the exemplary product package 300A is described. By way of example, a person with limited dexterity or other physical limitations may find it difficult or nearly impossible to open conventional product packaging. Consequently, the exemplary product package 300A addresses a need in the art for a product package that is significantly easier to open by nearly all persons, regardless of any afflicting physical limitations.

The foregoing exemplary product package 300A may start out as a continuous sheet comprising one or more layers of material that is successively cut to create product blanks 350, which are utilized to form the package 300A. In exemplary form, each blank 350 may include a tear strip 320 and loop 322 that are configured so that tearing the strip 320 provides access to the interior of the enclosure 308 and access to the medical device 314. Specifically, the tear strip 320 may be mounted and accessible from an exterior of the blank 350 to facilitate intended opening of the product package 300A. Exemplary techniques for mounting the tear strip 320 to a blank 350 include, without limitation, heat sealing, adhesives, welding, and intervening layering. In exemplary form, the tear strip 320 may be oriented as a continuous loop circumscribing a portion of the blank 350 (e.g., the perimeter) or may be oriented in a straight line or non-linear configuration. Those skilled in the art would be familiar with the alternative shapes and configurations in view of the foregoing exemplary teachings.

In this exemplary embodiment, a medical device 314 may be positioned to interpose a pair of flat blanks 350, which are aligned over one another so that the perimeters of the blanks are aligned. Post interposing of the medical device 314 and alignment of the blank 350 perimeters, a sealing operation is carried out to seal a peripheral area of the blanks 350 to one another. Exemplary sealing operations include, without limitation, adhesive sealing, vibration welding, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, and equivalent forms of sealing or welding. In any event, post introduction of the product 314, the sealing operation inhibits unintended access to the product from outside the product package 300A.

In exemplary form, prior to or post introduction of the product 314 into the enclosure 308, the product may be sealed or otherwise prepared to exclude contaminants from accessing the product. By way of example, the product 314 and/or package 300A may be subjected to one or more finishing processes that may include, without limitation, sterilization (internal and external), and nitrogen flushing.

As discussed previously, the product 314 may comprise a medical device such as a one-time use or disposable catheter. In circumstances where the intended user of the product may have compromised dexterity or may otherwise benefit from the ease of accessing the product 314 from the exemplary product package 300A, the user would dislodge the loop 322 from the exterior of the enclosure 308 by overcoming the attachment of a temporary adhesive. Upon dislodgment from the enclosure, the loop 322 may take on an expanded shape to allow a user to insert his hand or appendage through the loop. It is also within the scope of the disclosure that the loop 322 includes a cinch or other structure to vary the diameter of the loop to create a custom fit. Though a cinch is not required, the user only needs to pass an appendage or other object through the loop 322 and correspondingly tension the loop to tension the tear strip 320.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, upon securing the product package 300A (such as by pulling apart loops 322) and creating a predetermined tension on at least one of the tear strips 320 via tensioning of the loops 322, at least one of the tear strips 320 tears away from the enclosure 308 to create a divide or opening between previously adjacent sections of the enclosure 308. Eventually, if continued tension is high enough and lasts long enough, the tear strip 320 can be completely separated from the enclosure 308. Upon partial or complete removal of the tear strip 320 from the enclosure 308, an opening is created in the enclosure 308 to allow a user to access the product 314 housed therein and remove the product therefrom. In this fashion, the product 314 may then be accessed directly by the user (without requiring removal of additional product packaging) and utilized without requiring the user to perform any complicated opening steps.

Referring to FIGS. 12-14, an alternate exemplary embodiment 300B to the third exemplary product package 300A comprises a cylinder wall 364 having axial ends that are sealed to one another to delineate an enclosed space 312B to be occupied by a medical device 314. In exemplary form, the medical device 314 may comprise a catheter, such as the Foley catheter available from C. R. Bard, Inc. Suitable non-limiting examples of catheters, and coatings therefor, can be found in Provisional Patent Application No. 62/042,125 and PCT Publication No. WO 2016/033234, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Nevertheless, those skilled in the art will understand that other medical devices besides catheters may be housed within the exemplary product package 300B including, without limitation, medical devices within home care settings (e.g., intermittent catheters, feedings tubes, diabetes supplies, ostomy supplies, etc.) and hospital or nursing home settings (e.g., intravenous preparation kits, urinary drainage systems, nasogastric tubes, surgical trays, etc.) for ease of opening by caregivers (trained medical or untrained) optionally wearing gloves or other personal protective equipment.

In addition to the cylindrical wall 364, the product package 300B may include one or more reinforcing/retaining strips 362 to facilitate easy opening of the product package and access to the medical device 314 housed therein. By way of example, an exemplary retaining strip 362 may extend in proximity to and parallel to a seal 380 at an axial end of the product package 300B (see FIG. 12). Alternatively, a retaining strip 362 may extend as a continuous loop on the cylindrical wall 364 or may extend as a discontinuous length on the cylindrical wall 364. Regardless of the shape and orientation of the retaining strip 362, a loop 322 or other partially circumscribing shape may be coupled to the retaining strip 362 to allow a limited dexterity user to place his/her hand or appendage stub through the loop (or other shape) and pull against the loop as a means to pull on the retaining strip 362, thereby causing a seal 380 of the cylindrical wall 364 to be breached and creating an opening or divide in the package 300B providing access to the interior region or cavity 312B. Moreover, alternatively or in addition, opposite sides of the cylindrical wall 364 may include separate loops 322 (not part of a dedicated retaining strip) mounted to separate retaining strips 360 to facilitate opening of the package 300B (see FIG. 14). Exemplary loop 322 sizes can be reconfigurable or vary depending upon the size of a user's hands or appendage stub circumference, but generally include circumferences ranging between twelve and twenty-four inches. In exemplary form, each loop 322 may be configured to lie flat on one or more sides of the product package 300B.

The exemplary product package 300B may be fabricated from various materials and take on various shapes and sizes. For example, the cylindrical wall 364 may be fabricated from various materials having single or multiple plies including, without limitation, paper, reinforced cardboard, corrugated materials, polymers (such as high and low density polyethylene), and metals (such as aluminum foil). For purposes of explanation only, the cylindrical wall 364 may be fabricated from Tyvek (high density polyethylene), which allows the product 314 to be sterilized via passage of ethylene oxide into the interior of the product package 300B. Those skilled in the art are familiar with Tyvek's material properties that, among other features, prohibit transmission of germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) and allow transmission of ethylene oxide. Alternatively, the cylindrical wall 364 may include a foil sheet that likewise prohibits transmission of germs (bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa) and allows for sterilization of the medical device 314 using gamma radiation. In addition to the cylindrical wall 364 potentially being fabricated from numerous materials, the retaining strip 362 may be fabricated from numerous materials.

By way of example, the retaining strip 362 may comprise a material separate from the cylindrical wall 364, or may comprise the same or a similar material as the cylindrical wall. In exemplary form, to the extent the retaining strip 362 is fabricated from the same materials as the cylindrical wall 364, the retaining strip 362 may comprise a section of the enclosure 308 that is secured to the loop 322 so that the retaining strip 362 will not disengage from the loop before one or more seals of the cylindrical wall 364 are breached. Examples of a retaining strip 362 include, without limitation, ribbons and filaments, either of which may be fabricated from polymers, animals, and plants. By way of further example, the ribbon may comprise a narrow plastic band and the filament may comprise a braided fiber, where the plastic band or fiber is adhered to the enclosure material(s). Those skilled in the art will readily understand the obvious configurations and materials that may be used as the retaining strip 362 in view of the foregoing. As one might imagine, the shape of the product package 300B may be dictated by the product 314 to be housed therein.

Exemplary shapes of the product package 300B are virtually unbounded. While the foregoing enclosure 308B embodies a pouch shape, alternative shapes may be readily utilized such as, without limitation, cylindrical, triangular, pyramidal, spherical, envelope, and cuboid.

In exemplary form, the loop 322 may be fabricated from the same or similar material as the retaining strip 362, or may be fabricated from a dissimilar material to the retaining strip. Regardless of the material chosen for the loop 322, the loop may be mounted to the retaining strip 362 so that tension on the loop will result in tension on the retaining strip 362. By way of example, the loop 322 may be fabricated from the same material as the retaining strip 362 and may be laid flat and applied temporarily to an exterior of the cylindrical wall 364 for compact shipping of the product package 300B. Examples include applying an organopolysiloxane adhesive to at least one of the loop 322 and the cylindrical wall 364 to retain the loop against the enclosure 308B just prior to a user desiring to open the enclosure.

Referring back to FIGS. 12 and 13, an exemplary method of fabricating and utilizing the exemplary product package 300B is described. By way of example, a person with limited dexterity or other physical limitations may find it difficult or nearly impossible to open conventional product packaging. Consequently, the exemplary product package 300B address a need in the art for a product package that is significantly easier to open by nearly all persons, regardless of any afflicting physical limitations.

As depicted in FIG. 13, the foregoing exemplary product package 300B may start out as a continuous cylinder comprising one or more layers of material that is successively cut to create individual product blanks 370, which are utilized to form the package 300B. In exemplary form, each blank 370 may include one or more retaining strips 362 and loops 322 that are configured so that pulling on each loop pulls on a respective retaining strip 362 to provide eventual access to the interior of the package 300B by breaching an axial seal. Specifically, the retaining strip 362 may be mounted and accessible from an exterior of the blank 370 to facilitate intended opening of the product package 300B. Exemplary techniques for mounting the retaining strip 362 to a blank 370 include, without limitation, heat sealing, adhesives, welding, and intervening layering. In exemplary form, each retaining strip 362 may be oriented as a continuous loop circumscribing a portion of the blank 370 (e.g., the perimeter) or may be oriented in a straight or non-linear line. Those skilled in the art would be familiar with the alternative shapes and configurations in view of the foregoing exemplary teachings.

In this exemplary embodiment, a medical device 314 may be positioned within the partially enclosed space 312B. Post positioning of the medical device 314 within the space 312B, a sealing operation is carried out to seal 380 the previously open axial end of the blank 370. Exemplary sealing operations include, without limitation, adhesive sealing, vibration welding, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, and equivalent forms of sealing or welding. In any event, post introduction of the product 314, the sealing operation inhibits unintended access to the product from outside the product package 300B.

In exemplary form, prior to or post introduction of the product 314 into the space 312B, the product may be sealed or otherwise prepared to exclude contaminants from accessing the product. By way of example, the product 314 and/or package 300B may be subjected to one or more finishing processes that may include, without limitation, sterilization (internal and external), and nitrogen flushing.

Referring to FIG. 14, as discussed previously, the product 314 may comprise a medical device such as a one-time use or disposable catheter. In circumstances where the intended user of the product may have compromised dexterity or may otherwise benefit from the ease of accessing the product 314 from the exemplary product package 300B, the user would dislodge the loops 322 from the exterior of the package by overcoming the attachment of a temporary adhesive. Upon dislodgment of each loop 322, the loop 322 may be take on an expanded shape to allow a user to insert his hand or appendage through the loop. It is also within the scope of the disclosure that the loop 322 includes a cinch or other structure to vary the diameter of the loop to create a custom fit. Though a cinch is not required, the user only needs to pass an appendage or other object through the loop 322 and correspondingly tension the loop to place tension on the corresponding retaining strip 362.

Upon securing the product packaging 300B (such as by pulling apart loops 322) and creating a predetermined tension on the retaining strips 362 via tensioning of the loops 322, at least one of the seals 380 is breached to create an opening in the package 300B to access the product 314 housed therein and removal of the product therefrom. In this fashion, the product 314 may then be accessed directly by the user (without requiring removal of additional product packaging) and utilized without requiring the user to perform any complicated opening steps. It should be noted that in this third alternate exemplary embodiment, the retaining strips 362 are not configured to separate from the product package 300B in contrast to the tear strips previously described herein.

Following from the above description, it should be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that, while the methods and apparatuses herein described constitute exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the invention described herein is not limited to any precise embodiment and that changes may be made to such embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Additionally, it is to be understood that the invention is defined by the claims and it is not intended that any limitations or elements describing the exemplary embodiments set forth herein are to be incorporated into the interpretation of any claim element unless such limitation or element is explicitly stated. Likewise, it is to be understood that it is not necessary to meet any or all of the identified advantages or objects of the invention disclosed herein in order to fall within the scope of any claims, since the invention is defined by the claims and since inherent and/or unforeseen advantages of the present invention may exist even though they may not have been explicitly discussed herein.

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