SEALABLE PLASTIC BAG ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A tamper evident plastic bag having a sheet folded to form opposing first and second panels and a bottom gusset. The bag includes a first seam and a second seam that cooperate with the panels and the gusset to form a content receiving region between the panels. A third seam secures the first panel to the second panel at a location between the first seam and the second seam forming two compartments of the content receiving region. An adhesive strip is disposed on an internal surface of the first panel, and the strip being positioned opposite an opposing portion of an internal surface of the second panel. When a protective strip is removed, and the adhesive strip is brought into contact with the opposing internal surface of the second panel, a seal is formed that closes the plastic bag, forming a vent between the first seam and the seal.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to wave top bags, and more particularly, relates to single use, food service, sealable wave top bags with integrated venting.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Plastic bags that have a bell-shaped upper portion and open extra wide at the top to enable quick and easy loading of take-out orders are commonly referred to as wave bags or wave-top bags. Wave bags typically include a folded bottom gusset portion having a wide, flat base that, when unfolded, enables the bag to stand on its own with its mouth wide open to allow for convenient and easy packaging. These bags, hence, are specifically engineered to enable stacking two or more carryout containers therein in a manner significantly preventing tipping and spilling of the container contents. Handles integrated with the wave top, together with low, medium, or high weight plastic material made sometimes with recycled plastic, further increase functionality and value of these bags.

While the use of these wave bags has begun to proliferate in the food service industry, especially with the recent growth of third party food delivery services, the potential for food tampering also increases. All parties including the food preparer/provider, the delivery driver/provider and the consumer would like assurance the food prepared has not in any manner been touched or tampered prior to the delivery.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a bell-shaped or wave type bag that is capable of being sealed in a manner that enables the end consumer assurance that the wave bag has not been opened, and that the prepared food therein has not been tampered with.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a tamper evident plastic bag including a plastic sheet folded to form opposing first and second panels of the plastic bag and a bottom gusset. Each panel having an internal surface that faces the opposing panel and an exterior surface. The plastic bag further includes a first seam secures the first panel to the second panel on a first side edge of the plastic bag, a second seam that secures the first panel to the second panel on a second side edge thereof. The first and second seams cooperating with the first and second panels and the bottom gusset to form a content receiving region of the plastic bag between the panels, and a top opening between the panels. In accordance with the present invention, an adhesive strip is included that is disposed on the internal surface of the first panel. The adhesive strip is positioned opposite an opposing portion of the internal surface of the second panel. A removeable protective strip is provided that covers the adhesive strip. The plastic bag is configured such that when the protective strip is removed, and the adhesive strip is brought into contact with the opposing portion of internal surface of the second panel, a seal is formed that closes the plastic bag and a vent is formed between the first seam and the seal.

Accordingly, a plastic bag is provided that can be easily sealed to prevent tampering, yet provide venting of the contents simply by the positioning of the adhesive strip in such a manner to create at least one vent passage. Moreover, the size of the vent passages, while providing venting of steam for example, is sufficiently small so that delivery personal cannot tamper with the bag contents without tearing of the bag or closure adhesive strip. This plastic bag is particularly useful in the food delivery service industry.

In one specific embodiment, the tamper evident plastic bag further includes a third seam that secures the first panel to the second panel at a location between the first seam and the second seam to form two compartments of the content receiving region of the plastic bag.

In another specific configuration, the third seam extends generally vertically.

In still another embodiment, the third seam is a thermal seal between the first panel and the second panel.

Yet another specific embodiment provides the third seam in the shape of an inverted V.

Another configuration provides that the location of the third seam is about midway between the first seam and the second seam.

In one specific embodiment, the location of the third seam is positioned proximate to the bottom gusset.

Still another embodiment provides that the vent is sufficiently large to enable the venting of steam therethrough while being sufficiently small to prevent the passage of a human hand therethrough.

A further specific configuration provides the adhesive strip is positioned at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than top ends of the first and second seams and the vent is formed between the top of the first seam and the seal.

Still another configuration provides a tamper evident plastic bag which is a wave top plastic bag.

Yet another specific embodiment, when the adhesive strip is brought into contact with the opposing portion of internal surface of the second panel, a second vent is also formed. The second vent being formed between the second seam and the seal. Further, the vents are located in an upper portion of the plastic bag and extend laterally inward from their associated seams.

Another configuration provides a tamper evident plastic bag which includes a handle. The handle is a die cut handle formed in the first and second panels at a location above the adhesive strip. Further, the die cut handle has a shape selected from the group consisting of a kidney shaped opening, a round opening and an oval opening.

In one specific configuration, the tamper evident plastic bag further includes a tear feature positioned at a level that is lower on the plastic bag than the adhesive strip, the tear feature being configured to facilitate opening the bag after it has been sealed, to thereby provide access to the content receiving region of the plastic bag.

In another embodiment, the tear feature includes a perforation formed in at least one of the panels. The perforation is oriented substantially in parallel with the adhesive strip below the adhesive strip and extends laterally across the plastic bag and is configured such that the plastic bag may be opened by tearing the perforation from either end of the perforation. Moreover, in another embodiment, each panel has a perforation

Finally, a tamper evident plastic bag is provided where the tear feature includes a tear notch formed on the first side edge of the plastic bag at a position lower on the bag than the adhesive strip.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a top opening, tamper evident plastic bag is provided including a plastic sheet folded to form opposing first and second panels of the plastic bag and a bottom gusset. Each panel includes an internal surface that faces the opposing panel and an exterior surface. The plastic bag further includes a first seam that secures the first panel to the second panel on a first side edge of the plastic bag, and a second seam that secures the first panel to the second panel on a second side edge of the plastic bag. the first and second seams cooperating with the first and second panels and the bottom gusset to form the top opening bag with a content receiving region between the panels. In accordance with the present invention, the plastic bag further includes a laterally extending single use closure adhesive strip disposed on the internal surface of the first panel. The adhesive strip is positioned opposite an opposing portion of the internal surface of the second panel. The adhesive strip is positioned at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than top ends of the first and second seams. A removeable protective strip is provided that covers the adhesive strip. The plastic bag is configured such that when the protective strip is removed, and the adhesive strip is brought into contact with the opposing portion of internal surface of the second panel, a seal is formed that closes the plastic bag and a first vent is formed between the top of the first seam and the seal and a second vent is formed between the top of the second seam and the seal. The vents are sufficiently large to enable the venting of steam therethrough while being sufficiently small to prevent the passage of a human hand therethrough. Lastly, a tear feature is provided which is positioned at a level that is lower on the plastic bag than the adhesive strip. The feature is configured to facilitate opening the bag after it has been sealed to thereby provide access to the content receiving region of the plastic bag.

In one specific embodiment, the plastic bag is a wave top plastic bag and each panel has a wave upper portion at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than the top ends of the seams. The adhesive strip is disposed on the wave upper portion of the first panel; and the vents extend laterally inward from their associated seams along a top edge of the wave upper portions of the panels.

In another specific configuration, the tear feature is positioned in the wave upper portions of the panels at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than the top ends of the seams.

Still another embodiment provides a tamper evident plastic bag that includes a die cut handle formed in the wave upper portions of the first and second panels at a location above the adhesive strip.

In yet another embodiment, the tear feature includes at least one of a perforation and a tear notch.

In one specific embodiment, a third seam is included that secures the first panel to the second panel at a vertical location below the tear feature, and a horizontal location between the first seam and the second seam to form two compartments of the content receiving region of the plastic bag.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of packaging items in a tamper evident plastic bag is included comprising opening the bag, inserting one or more items into the bag, and folding upper portions of the panels downwardly outward such that the upper portion of each panel extends over the exterior surface of a second portion of such panel that is lower than the upper portion of such panel. In the folded over position, the adhesive strip does not face the second panel. The method further includes removing the protective strip while the upper portions of the panels are in the folded over position. After the upper portions of the panels have been folded downwardly and the protective strip has been removed, pressing the adhesive strip into contact with the opposing portion of the internal surface of the second panel to thereby form a tamper evident seal that closes the plastic bag with the one or more items stored therein. Moreover, the method includes forming a vent between the first seam and the seal. The vent is sufficiently small to prevent the passage of a human hand therethrough.

In one specific embodiment, after the folding of the upper portions and prior to the pressing of the adhesive strip into contact with the opposing portion of the internal surface of the second panel, the method include extending top ends of the side seams away from each other to thereby better even up the panels at a level corresponding to upper portions of the side seams.

In another configuration, the adhesive strip is positioned at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than top ends of the first and second seams and folds formed by the folding of the upper portions of the panels downwardly are located at least as high on the plastic bag as the top ends of the first and second seams.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The assembly of the present invention has other objects and features of advantage which will be more readily apparent from the following description of the best mode of carrying out the invention and the appended claims, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a wave bag assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the wave bag assembly with a closure adhesive strip oriented at an alternative position.

FIG. 3 is a side elevation of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 1 with the upper sections thereof in an opened condition.

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 4 with the first and second side panel thereof in a receiving condition.

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 5 with one or more containers placed in a bag interior thereof.

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 6 with commencement of the upper sections of the side panels moved toward a closed condition.

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 7, showing removal of a protective strip over the closure adhesive strip.

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 8, showing adherence of the upper sections together, in a closed condition, and formation of the vent passages.

FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 9, showing the upper sections in the closed condition, while the remaining portions of the side panels maintain the contents of the bag assembly in the receiving condition.

FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of alternative embodiment of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 1 with a horizontal apex portion of the upper section thereof.

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of another alternative embodiment of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 1 with a more vertically oriented vent passages.

FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of alternative embodiment of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 1 with a parabolically shaped adhesive strip.

FIG. 14 is a front elevation view of alternative embodiment of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 1 with a horizontal apex portion of the upper section thereof, and with an additional single use or multiple use alignment adhesive strip

FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of alternative embodiment wave bag assembly of FIG. 14 with the upper sections thereof in an opened condition.

FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of alternative embodiment wave bag assembly of FIG. 15 with one or more containers placed in a bag interior thereof.

FIG. 17 is another top perspective view of alternative embodiment wave bag assembly of FIG. 15 with one or more containers placed in a bag interior thereof.

FIG. 18 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 16, showing removal of a protective strip over the single use or multiple use alignment adhesive strip and the closure adhesive strip.

FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 18, showing alignment and adherence of the apex portions of the upper sections together, in an aligned condition, with the single use or multiple use alignment adhesive strip.

FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 19, showing adherence of the upper sections together, in a closed condition, with the closure adhesive strip and formation of the vent passages.

FIG. 21 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 1 with a perforation and notch cut out for easy tearing.

FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 21 with an alternative position of the perforation.

FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 21.

FIG. 24 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 23, illustrating opening of a closed bag assembly.

FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment perforation for the wave bag assembly of FIG. 21.

FIG. 26 is a top perspective view of alternative embodiment of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 1 with a central third seam.

FIG. 27 is a front elevation view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a side elevation of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 26.

FIG. 29 is a front elevation view, in cross-section, of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 26, taken along the plane of the line 29-29 in FIG. 28.

FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 26, illustrating the upper portions of the panels in a folded over position to receive beverage containers in the associated bag compartments.

FIG. 31 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 26, showing removal of a protective strip over the closure adhesive strip.

FIG. 32 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 31, showing adherence of the upper sections together, in a closed condition, and formation of the vent passages.

FIG. 33 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 32, illustrating opening of a closed bag assembly.

FIG. 34 is a top perspective view of the wave bag assembly of FIG. 7, illustrating alignment of the upper portions for closure of the bag assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the present invention will be described with reference to a few specific embodiments, the description is illustrative of the invention and is not to be construed as limiting the invention. Various modifications to the present invention can be made to the preferred embodiments by those skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It will be noted here that for a better understanding, like components are designated by like reference numerals throughout the various figures.

Turning now to FIGS. 1-9, a tamper evident plastic bag, generally designated 20, is provided including a plastic sheet folded to form a first panel 21 and an opposing second panel 21′ of the plastic bag and a bottom gusset 47. Each panel 21, 21′ includes an internal surface 41, 41′ that faces the opposing panel and an exterior surface. The plastic bag 20 further includes a first seam 24 secures the first panel 21 to the second panel 21′ on a first side edge 22 of the plastic bag. Similarly, an opposed second seam 29 is provided that secures the first panel 21 to the second panel 21′ on a second side edge 23 thereof. The first and second seams 24, 29 cooperate with the first and second panels 21, 21′ and the bottom gusset 47 to form a content receiving region 38 of the plastic bag between the panels, and a top opening between the panels.

In accordance with the present invention, an adhesive strip 40 is included that is disposed on the internal surface 41 of the first panel 21. The adhesive strip 40 is positioned opposite an opposing portion 25′ of the internal surface 41′ of the second panel 21′. The plastic bag 20 further includes a removeable protective strip 54 that covers the adhesive strip 40. The plastic bag 20 is configured such that when the protective strip 54 is removed, and the adhesive strip 40 is brought into contact with the opposing portion 25′ of internal surface 41′ of the second panel 21′, a seal 34 is formed that closes the plastic bag 20 and a vent 45 (FIG. 9) is formed between the first seam 24 and the seal 34.

Accordingly, a plastic bag assembly is provided that can be easily sealed to prevent visible tampering, yet provides venting of the contents simply by the positioning of the closure adhesive strip and seal in such a manner to create the vent. This assembly is particularly useful in the food delivery service industry since the size of the vent, while providing venting of steam for example, is sufficiently small so that delivery personal cannot tamper with the bag contents without tearing of the bag or seal.

In one specific embodiment, the plastic bag 20 is in the form of a plastic wave bag assembly with the sheet-like first and second side panels 21, 21′ oriented in opposed congruent relationship to one another when in a folded condition (FIG. 1-3). Each side panel 21, 21′ is integrally joined together at common opposing side edges 22, 23 thereof, forming seams 24, 29. Further, each side panel includes respective upper panel sections 25, 25′ that are defined by respective convexly contoured, parabolically shaped top edges 26, 26′. Further, each upper panel section 25, 25′ includes a handle 39 to facilitate carrying the plastic bag. Briefly, the handle 39 can be comprised of a soft loop style handle or a die cut style handle, for instance. In one configuration of a die cut style handle for a wave bag, the upper panel sections 25, 25′define congruently located handle apertures 27, 27′ positioned proximate to a respective apex portion 28, 28′ of the respective parabolically shaped top edge 26, 26′. These die cut style handles can be in the shape of a round opening, and oval opening or a kidney-shaped opening, for example.

Each parabolically shaped top edge 26, 26′ includes a respective pair of opposed shoulder end portions 30, 31 and 30′, 31′ that terminate and intersect with respective upper side edge end portions 32, 33 of the common opposed side edges 22, 23 of the joined first and second side panel 21, 21′ at respective corner intersections 35, 36 thereof. Essentially, these corner intersections 35, 36, correspond to the top ends of the first and second seams 24, 29. Each of the first and second side panel 21, 21′ further includes a respective opposed bottom edge 37, 37′ oriented in congruent, adjacent relationship to one another, in the folded condition (FIG. 1-3), and are cooperatively joined such that the content receiving region 38 (FIG. 5) is formed when the parabolically shaped top edges 26, 26′ are generally spaced apart to an opened condition (FIGS. 5 and 6), reorienting the remaining portions of the side panels 21, 21′ to a receiving condition (FIGS. 6-10).

In accordance with the present invention and as set forth above, the wave bag assembly 20 further includes the single use closure adhesive strip 40 disposed and oriented primarily laterally across the internal surface 41 of the upper panel section 25 first panel 21 at a level below the corresponding handle aperture 27. The closure adhesive strip 40 is configured to selectively be brought into contact with the opposing portion of internal surface 41′ of the upper panel section 25′ of the second panel 21′ when the protective strip 54 is removed. This contact forms the seal 34 that closes and maintains the upper panel sections 25, 25′ generally in a sealed or closed condition (FIGS. 9 and 10) while the remaining portions of the first and second panels 21, 21′ are maintained in the receiving condition (FIGS. 9 and 10) to hold content within the content receiving region 38. The closure adhesive strip 40 includes a pair of opposed adhesive strip distal ends 42, 43 formed and dimensioned to terminate proximate to a respective corner intersection 35, 36 (corresponding to the respective top ends of the first and second seams) of the bag assembly 20 such that when the seal 34 is formed, the seal ends (corresponding to the adhesive strip distal ends 42, 43) cooperate with the corresponding top ends of the first and second seams 24, 29 to form respective vents 45, 46, in the closed condition. Each vent 45, 46 is of a lateral dimension sufficiently large to enable the venting of steam therethrough while being sufficiently small to prevent the passage of a human hand therethrough.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 and 5, each panel 21, 21′ is preferably identical in size and shape to one another such that when placed atop one another, in the folded condition, the panel integral side edges 22, 23, the opposed parabolically shaped top edges 26, 26′, and the respective opposed bottom edges 37, 37′ are congruent. It will be appreciated, however, that while the opposed parabolically shaped top edges 26, 26′ are preferably congruent, this is not a requisite. Furthermore, each plastic panel is composed of a common plastic bag material, such as polyethylene, in typical sheet thickness in the ranges of between about 0.00035 inch to about 0.035 inch.

Using any conventional extrusion techniques, a single cylindrical unit can be extruded, folded, and stamped or die cut, for instance, forming the congruent first and second panels 21, 21′ of FIGS. 1-3. It will be appreciated, however, that using conventional adhesive or heat seal techniques, or any other common edge joining method, the opposed side edges 22, 23 can be integrally joined, substantially forming the content receiving region 38, forming seams 24, 29.

With respect to the formation of the bottom portion of the wave bag assembly 20, the rectangular shaped bottom gusset 47 is disposed between the bottom edges 37, 37′ of the respective panels 21, 21′. This bottom gusset 47 facilitates the ability of the upper panel sections 25, 25′ to stay in the opened condition (FIG. 5) while the remaining portions of the side panels are maintained in the receiving condition (FIGS. 5-10). Moreover, the bottom gusset provides a flatter bottom support when the food containers 49 are positioned therein.

The respective gusset side edges 48, 48′ (FIGS. 1 and 4) are integrally joined with the respective adjacent panel bottom edges 37, 37′ in the same or similar manner as the adjacent side panel side edges 22, 23. As best viewed in FIG. 4, the bottom gusset 47 includes a longitudinally extending central fold line 50 that is centrally disposed between the lower portions of the first and second side panels 21, 21′. Moreover, the opposed, folded gusset end edges 51, 51′ are integrally joined together at the center fold line 50, and with the lower side edge portions 52, 53 of panel side edges 22, 23. Accordingly, when the bag assembly 20 is in the folded condition (FIGS. 1-5), the gusset portion 47 is completely folded. When the panels 21, 21′ are separated to the receiving condition (FIGS. 4 and 5, at least the central portions of the center fold line 50 are moved to an unfolded condition, while the integrally joined gusset end edges 51, 51′ remain folded.

Once the upper panel sections 25, 25′ of the wave bag assembly 20 are moved to the opened condition (FIGS. 4 and 5) and the panels 21, 21′ are moved to the receiving condition (FIG. 5), the one or more containers or cartons 49 can be stacked and/or placed side-by-side therein. In accordance with the present invention, and as mentioned above, the upper panel sections 25, 25′ can then be repositioned to the closed position, and adhered together, via the closure adhesive strip 40 contacting the opposed internal surface 41′ of the second panel 21′, temporarily closing the upper panel sections together, via seal 34, while retaining the container contents in the bag interior. The closure adhesive strip 40 and the seal 34 will maintain the closure of the bag assembly until forcibly opened and torn. Accordingly, a tamper proof seal is created, assuring all parties including the food preparer/provider, the delivery driver/provider and the customer that content contained in the wave bag assembly 20 has not been tampered with.

The character and properties of the closure adhesive strip 40 is preferably similar to that of the relatively strong adhesives and adhesive tapes employed for those used on overnight delivery packages, for instance. That is, the adhesive strength must be sufficiently strong so that any attempt to open the sealed wave bag assembly would show visible signs of tampering (e.g., stretching, tearing, etc. of the bag material and/or closure adhesive strip). Suitable closure adhesive strip materials include, for example, 3M® 9086, 9888T, CT6348, 9088, 9088FL, and 55256 double-sided adhesive. One adhesive side of the closure adhesive strip 40 bearing the manually removable protective strip 54 (FIG. 8) that protects the adhesive until needed, as well as preventing inadvertent sealing of the upper panel sections 25, 25′.

Also in accordance with the present invention, at least one vent 45 is created between the seal 34, via the closure adhesive strip 40 itself, and the corresponding upper side edge end portion 32, 33 (most likely the corner intersection 35, 36 or the seam top ends) of the joined adjacent, respective first and second seams 24, 29. This vent 45 enables the passage of steam, for example, emitted from the hot food contained in the containers 49 stored in the content receiving region 38. However, the vent 45 must also not be too wide so as to permit the passage of a human hand therethrough.

For example, the vent 45 is created between the at least one distal end portion of the closure adhesive strip 40 and seal 34 and the corresponding upper side edge end portion 32 at first seam 24, in the sealed, closed condition. However, the width of a flattened vent 45, when the bag assembly 20 is in the relaxed position, is significantly longer than a diameter of the vent passage, when generally circular, as when the bag assembly is in the receiving condition, and one tries to pass their hand therethrough. Accordingly, the range of permissible vent diameters is preferably in the range of about ½ inch to about 2½ inches in diameter, so a flattened Length (L_v) of the vent 45 (FIGS. 1, 2 and 12), when the bag assembly is in the folded condition, would translate to ½ of the vent circumference (i.e., when folded flat or ½ πD) or about 0.785 inch to 3.925 inches.

Turning now to FIG. 10, although only one vent 45 has been described, preferably a pair of opposed vents 45, 46 are formed by the opposite adhesive strip distal ends 42, 43, forming seal 34 when contacting the internal surface 41′ of the upper section 25′ of the second panel 21′, in the closed condition. More preferably, each vent 45, 46 is formed between a corresponding seal ends created by the adhesive strip distal end 42, 43 and the adjacent upper side edge end portion 32, 33, (i.e., the top ends of the first and second seams 24, 29) and more likely the corresponding corner intersection 35, 36.

Preferably, the closure adhesive strip is provided by a single continuous strip generally spanning the horizontal distance from one upper side edge end portion 32 to the opposed upper side edge end portion 33 of the panels 21, 21′. It will be appreciated, however, that the closure adhesive strip 40 could be provided by a plurality of aligned independent adhesive strip members (not shown) where the spacing therebetween complies with that of the vents 45, 46.

As best viewed in FIGS. 1, 2, 12 and 13, the shape of the closure adhesive strip 40 and/or the position of the opposed adhesive strip distal ends 42, 43 the top ends of the first and second seams 24, 29, alters the ability close and seal the upper panel sections 25, 25′ while maintaining the containers in the bag assembly 20 in the receiving condition. FIGS. 1 and 2 best represents the simplest closure adhesive strip 40 form and position extending horizontally near the intersection (i.e., an imaginary intersection line 55) between the upper panel section 25 and the middle panel section 56 of the first panel 21 (FIG. 2), Since this positions the adhesive strip distal ends 42, 43, and thus the corresponding ends of the seal 34, horizontally at the respective top ends of the first and second seams 24, 29 (i.e., the corner intersections 35, 36), the distal ends thereof must terminate within the flattened distances or Length (L_v) mentioned so as to create the proper sized vents 45, 46.

In the preferred embodiment, the closure adhesive strip 40 is positioned vertically above the imaginary intersection line 55, and thus the top ends of the first and second seams 24, 29, as best shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 11, 12 and 14. In this manner, the closure adhesive strip 40 could extend horizontally and substantially all the way across the upper panel section 25, 25′ with the opposed adhesive strip distal ends terminating at, or substantially at, the parabolic top edge 26, albeit at a vertical distance above the imaginary line 55 wherein the resulting hypotenuse length between the adhesive strip distal ends 42, 43 and the corner intersections. This length, of course should be no greater than the maximum flattened Length (L_v) mentioned above to create the vents 45, 46. Accordingly, the vents extend laterally inward from the associated seams.

In still another configuration, as best shown in FIGS. 11 and 14, the apex portions 28, 28′ of the parabolically-shaped top edges 26, 26′ can extend generally horizontally and linearly across the respective upper panel sections 25, 25′. This flattened apex portion 28, 28′ is of course oriented above the respective handle apertures 27, 27′. Such a configuration also facilitates alignment of the apex portions 28, 28′ for initial closure. Accordingly, this configuration is particularly useful when employed in conjunction with the upper single use or multiple use alignment adhesive strip embodiment to be described below.

Yet another specific embodiment provides a wave bag assembly 20 with vertically oriented vent passages, 45, 46, as best illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 14, defined by vertical cutouts 60, 61 which are cut out of the upper portions of the side edges 22, 23, as well as the opposed shoulder end portions of the parabolically shaped top edges 26, 26′of the upper panel sections 25, 25′. By orienting the vents 45, 46 more vertically, the steam vented can be direct out of the sides of the bag assembly rather than upwardly near the handles.

Referring now to FIG. 13, the closure adhesive strip 40 could be shaped generally similar to the parabolic curve of the top edge 26. This shape enables the middle section 56, 56′ of the panels 21, 21′ to remain in a more open orientation when supporting the containers 49 therein, while the upper panel section 25, 25′ remains sealed closed, via the closure adhesive strip 40. Accordingly, from the opposed adhesive strip distal ends 42, 43′, the respective closure adhesive strip 40 tapers upwardly therefrom toward the apex portion 28, 28′ of the top edge 26, 26′. It will be appreciated, however, that the apex of the closure adhesive strip 40 is positioned under the handle apertures 27, 27′, of course.

In one configuration, the shape of the closure adhesive strip 40 is an inverted V-shape (not shown), while in another configuration, the shape of the closure adhesive strip 40 generally conforms to the parabolic shaped of the top edges 26, 26′ (FIG. 13). Such an upwardly tapered closure adhesive strip 40 from the strip distal ends 42, 43 thereof, this design not only enables termination of the strip distal ends 42, 43 above the imaginary intersection line 55 (not shown), termination of distal ends of the seal 34 at the imaginary intersection line 55, but also enables termination of distal ends of the seal 34 below the imaginary intersection line 55 (FIG. 13), as well, to create the corresponding vents 45, 46.

Turning now to FIGS. 14-20, another embodiment is illustrated that includes an independent alignment adhesive strip 62 disposed and oriented laterally across the internal surfaces 41 of the upper panel section 25 of the first panel 21. This alignment adhesive strip 62 is oriented above the handle aperture 27, and is configured to initially align the apex portions 28, 28′ of the top edges 26, 26′ for mounting together. Subsequently, this eases and simplifies the alignment and closure procedure of the closure adhesive strip 40, in the closed condition.

Similar to the closure adhesive strip 40, the alignment adhesive strip can be provided by single use or multiple use double sided tape, or other forms of adhesives commonly employed for these purposes. Typically, for instance, the protective strip 63 from over the alignment adhesive strip can be removed (FIG. 18), and then the apex portions 28, 28′ of the upper panel sections 25, 25′ can be initially aligned. However, if initially not aligned straight, the realignment can be achieved from the multiple use alignment adhesive strip. Once aligned, the alignment adhesive strip 62 can be pressed against the opposing internal surfaces 41′ of the upper panel section 25′ of the second panel 21′ (FIG. 19). The adhered alignment strip 62 subsequently facilitates the alignment and closure of the closure adhesive strip 40 to the opposed internal surfaces 41′ of the second panel 21′ (FIG. 20).

FIGS. 21-24 best illustrate another sealable wave bag assembly embodiment having a tear feature 59 configured to promote opening of the sealed plastic bag 20 when oriented in the closed condition to provide access to the content receiving region 38. The tear feature 59 is positioned at a level that is lower on the plastic bag 20 than the adhesive strip 40.

The tear feature is preferably in the form of a perforation 65 (and/or 65′) extending substantially across at least one of the first and second panels 21, 21′ to facilitate opening of the wave bag assembly 20 to retrieve its contents, once sealed. Preferably each side panel 21, 21′ includes a perforation 65, 65′ extending substantially across each side panel 21, 21, and preferably each perforation 65, 65′ is congruent to one another to promote tearing open the perforations in a manner similar to opening a bag of potato chip for example (FIG. 24). It will be understood, however, that a single perforation 65 (FIG. 25) is acceptable.

The placement of these opposing perforations 65, 65′ must be oriented below, or at a level lower than, the closure adhesive strip 40 of course. As best shown in FIG. 21, in one embodiment, the perforations 65, 65′ extend from the first seam 24 of the corresponding panel 21, 21′ to the opposed second seam 29 thereof. In another embodiment, the perforations 65, 65′ extend substantially across the corresponding upper panel sections 25, 25′ from one side of the respective parabolic top edge 26, 26′ to an opposite side of the top edge thereof (FIG. 22).

The perforations 65, 65′ can be created using conventional mechanical and/or laser cutting techniques. Moreover, while the perforations 65, 65′ are substantially linear and oriented substantially horizontal, substantially in parallel with the adhesive strip 40 above, it will be appreciated that the perforations can be non-linear, and can even be oriented vertically along the panels 21, 21′ (e.g., down at least one of the side edge 22, 23, although not shown).

In accordance with this aspect of the present invention, to open the wave bag assembly 20 when the closure adhesive strip 40 is selectively maintaining the upper panel sections 25, 25′ generally in the closed condition (FIGS. 9 and 10), the perforations can be compromised by forcibly tearing open one side of the panels (FIG. 25). When there is a set of congruent, opposed perforations 65, 65′, tearing of the panels may be performed more easily together and simultaneously (FIG. 24).

As best illustrated in FIG. 21, in one embodiment, the tear feature 59 is provided by a notch or cutout 66 on the first side edge 22 of the plastic bag 20 at a position lower on the bag than the adhesive strip 40. The notch 66 may further be aligned with the terminating ends of the perforations 65, 65′. The tear feature may further include a second notch 67 on the second side edge 23, opposite the first named notch 66. These cutouts 66, 67 facilitate commencement of the tear at the ends thereof with or without the perforations.

Referring now to FIGS. 26-33, another aspect of the present invention is provided wherein the tamper evident plastic bag 20 further includes a third seam, generally designated 68, that secures the first panel 21 to the second panel 21′ at a location between the first seam 24 and the second seam 29 to form two compartments 70 and 71 within the content receiving region 38. The third seam 68 extends generally vertically, forming the two compartments 70, 71 which are elongated vertically, and are particularly suitable to seat beverage style or beverage-shaped container 72 therein in an upright manner.

Accordingly, beverage style containers 72, such as conventional soda cups, can be stored and sealed there with the reduced fear of spillage and/or tampering. Similar to the previous embodiment plastic bag described above, once the top opening is moved from the folded condition (FIGS. 26-28) to the opened condition (FIGS. 30-31), opening access to the compartments 70, 71 of the content receiving region, beverage containers can then be placed therein in a side-by-side manner. Subsequently, again similar to the previous embodiments described above, the protective strip 54 can be removed to expose the adhesive of the adhesive strip 40. By placing the adhesive strip into contact with the opposing internal surface 41′ of the second panel, a seal 34 is formed to between the panels to the plastic bag 20 in the closed condition (FIG. 32).

The third seam 68 essentially joins the internal surface 41 of the first panel 21 to the internal surface 41′ of the second panel 21′. It will be appreciated, however, that the third seam 68 is formed using conventional adhesive or heat seal techniques, or any other common plastic sheet joining techniques. This seam does not need to be particularly wide, although it should be sufficiently wide to provide sufficient structural integrity thereat when stressed during normal use. Preferably, the width of the thermal seam is in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 5.0 mm. Moreover, the elongated third seam 68 need not be a continuous seam, but may be composed of a plurality of segments that collectively separate the compartments 70, 71.

To create two similarly sized compartments 70, 71, the third seam 68 is centrally located at a horizontal position midway between the first seam 24 and the second seam 29. It will be appreciated, however, that the third seam can be offset more toward the first seam 24 or the second seam 29 to differ the relative size of the compartments 70, 71.

In general, the third seam 68 extends vertically, but need not extend continuously from the perforation 65 to the bottom gusset 47. The height of the third seam 68 only extends a portion of the vertical distance, VD_PG, between the perforations to the bottom gusset (FIG. 27). In particular, the height of the third seam is in the range of about 10% of the VD_PG to about 60% of the VD_PG, and more particularly, in the range of about 20% of the VD_PG to 40% of the VD_PG. Moreover, as best shown in FIG. 29, the third seam 68 is positioned near the bottom of the first and second panels, just above the folded bottom gusset 47. This is advantageous in that the contents (beverage containers) can stand upright evenly and easily on a flat surface. Also due to the placement of the third seam 68, there is a little slack between the two loaded beverage containers. Therefore, when placed in an automobile's two drink cup holder, for instance, the beverage containers can easily seated snugly into the automobile's cup holder.

In accordance with this embodiment of the present invention, the two compartments 70, 71 of the content receiving region 38 formed by the third seam 68 are sized and dimensioned to carry beverage containers 72 which are generally taller in height as compared to their width. Often beverage containers or cups, which are sized to be held of a person's hand, taper outwardly from the bottom of the container to the top such that the diameter of the top of the container is much larger than that of the bottom of the container. Accordingly, in one particular embodiment, the third seam 68 is generally in the shape of an inverted V, as best illustrated in FIGS. 26, 27 and 29. Such inward taper of the third seam 68 from the bottom sides thereof to the apex of the inverted V third seam 68 will somewhat conform to the outward taper of the average beverage containers.

Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a method of packaging items 49 in a tamper evident plastic bag 20 that includes opening the bag 20, and inserting one or more items 49 into the bag. The method next includes folding upper portions 25, 25′of the panels 21, 21′ downwardly outward such that the upper portion of each panel extends over the exterior surface of a second portion of such panel that is lower than the upper portion of such panel. In this folded over position (FIG. 30), the adhesive strip 40 does not face the second panel 21′. The method further includes pulling on each respective corner intersection 35, 36 or top ends of the side seam 24, 29 in opposite directions (arrows 73 and 75 in FIG. 34) away from one another to prepare and align the adhesive strip with the opposed internal surface for sealing. The method includes removing the protective strip 54 while the upper portions 25, 25′ of the panels 21, 21′ are in the folded over position. After the upper portions 25, 25′ of the panels 21, 21′ have been folded downwardly, the side seams have been pulled away from each other to prepare for sealing, and the protective strip has been removed, the method next includes pressing the adhesive strip 40 into contact with the opposing portion of the internal surface 41′ of the second panel 21′ to thereby form a tamper evident seal 34 that closes the plastic bag 20 with the one or more items 49 stored therein. In accordance with the present invention, formation of the seal 34 simultaneously forms a vent 45 between the first seam 24, 29 and the seal 34. The vent 45 is sufficiently small to prevent the passage of a human hand therethrough.

In one embodiment, the method further includes, after the folding of the upper portions 25, 25′and prior to the pressing of the adhesive strip 40 into contact with the opposing portion of the internal surface 41′ of the second panel 21′, extending top ends of the side seams 24, 29 away from each other to thereby better even (align) up the panels 21, 21′ at a level corresponding to upper portions of the side seams.

Another embodiment provides a tamper proof method for transporting one or more food containers 49 which includes is providing a plastic material wave bag assembly 20 as described above, having a sheet-like first panel 21 and a sheet-like second panel 21′ oriented in opposed congruent relationship to one another when in a folded condition (FIGS. 1-3), and repositioning the wave bag assembly 20 from the folded condition to the opened condition (FIGS. 4 and 5), reorienting the first and second side panels 21, 21′ to the receiving condition (FIG. 5). The method further includes placing the one or more food containers 49 into the content receiving region 38 in the receiving condition (FIGS. 6 and 7). The next step includes single-use, substantially sealing the opposed upper panel sections 25, 25′ together to a closed condition (FIGS. 9 and 10), toward the folded condition, while the one or more food containers are maintained in the content receiving region 38 in the receiving condition by contacting a single use closure adhesive strip 40 into contact with the opposed internal surfaces 41′ of the opposed upper panel section 25′.

Similarly, the closure adhesive strip is formed and dimensioned to facilitate the creation of at least one vent passage. The opposed upper panel sections are maintained in the closed condition, and the vent is of a lateral dimension sufficiently large to enable the venting of steam therethrough from the bag interior while being sufficiently small to prevent the passage of a human hand therethrough.

In another specific embodiment, before forming the pair of opposed vents 45, 46, aligning the respective apex portions 28, 28′ of the upper panel sections 25, 25′together. Next, the method includes contacting a single use or multiple use alignment adhesive strip 62, disposed on the internal surface 41 of the upper section 25 of the first panel 21, oriented above the handle apertures 27, and into contact with the opposed internal surface 41′ of the second panel 21′.

While the present invention has been described in connection with the preferred form of practicing it and modifications thereto, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that many other modifications can be made thereto within the scope of the claims that follow. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of the invention in any way be limited by the above description, but instead be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.

Claims

1. A tamper evident plastic bag comprising: a plastic sheet folded to form opposing first and second panels of the plastic bag and a bottom gusset, each panel having an internal surface that faces the opposing panel and an exterior surface;a first seam that secures the first panel to the second panel on a first side edge of the plastic bag;a second seam that secures the first panel to the second panel on a second side edge of the plastic bag, the first and second seams cooperating with the first and second panels and the bottom gusset to form a content receiving region of the plastic bag between the panels, and a top opening between the panels;an adhesive strip disposed on the internal surface of the first panel, the adhesive strip being positioned opposite an opposing portion of the internal surface of the second panel; anda removable protective strip that covers the adhesive strip, the plastic bag being configured such that when the protective strip is removed, and the adhesive strip is brought into contact with the opposing portion of internal surface of the second panel, a seal is formed that closes the plastic bag and a vent is formed between the first seam and the seal; anda handle arranged to be gripped by a user at a location above the adhesive strip after the seal is formed to facilitate carrying the plastic bag, wherein the handle does not provide access to the content receiving region of the sealed plastic bag.

2. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 1 further comprising a third seam that secures the first panel to the second panel at a location between the first seam and the second seam to form two compartments of the content receiving region of the plastic bag.

3. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 2 wherein the third seam extends generally vertically.

4. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 3 wherein the third seam is a thermal seal between the first panel and the second panel.

5. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 3 wherein a general shape of the third seam is an inverted V.

6. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 5 wherein the horizontal location of the third seam is about midway between the first seam and the second seam.

7. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 1 wherein the vent is sufficiently large to enable the venting of steam therethrough while being sufficiently small to prevent the passage of a human hand therethrough.

8. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 1 wherein the adhesive strip is positioned at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than top ends of the first and second seams and the vent is formed between the top of the first seam and the seal.

9. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 1 wherein when the adhesive strip is brought into contact with the opposing portion of internal surface of the second panel a second vent is also formed, the second vent being formed between the second seam and the seal.

10. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 1 wherein the vents are located in an upper portion of the plastic bag and extend laterally inward from their associated seams.

11. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 1 wherein the tamper evident plastic bag is a food or beverage carrier

12. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 1 wherein the handle is a die cut handle formed in the first and second panels at a location above the adhesive strip.

13. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 1 further comprising a tear feature positioned at a level that is lower on the plastic bag than the adhesive strip, the tear feature being configured to facilitate opening the bag after it has been sealed, to thereby provide access to the content receiving region of the plastic bag.

14. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 13 wherein the tear feature includes a perforation formed in at least one of the panels.

15. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 14 wherein the perforation is oriented substantially in parallel with the adhesive strip, below the adhesive strip and extends laterally across the plastic bag ,and is configured such that the plastic bag may be opened by tearing the perforation from either end of the perforation.

16. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 14 wherein each panel has a perforation.

17. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 13 wherein the tear feature includes a tear notch formed on the first side edge of the plastic bag at a position lower on the bag than the adhesive strip.

18. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 1 wherein the adhesive strip is a single use closure adhesive strip.

19. A top opening, tamper evident plastic bag comprising: a plastic sheet folded to form opposing first and second panels of the plastic bag and a bottom gusset, each panel having an internal surface that faces the opposing panel and an exterior surface;a first seam that secures the first panel to the second panel on a first side edge of the plastic bag;a second seam that secures the first panel to the second panel on a second side edge of the plastic bag, the first and second seams cooperating with the first and second panels and the bottom gusset to form the top opening bag with a content receiving region between the panels;a laterally extending single use closure adhesive strip disposed on the internal surface of the first panel, the adhesive strip being positioned opposite an opposing portion of the internal surface of the second panel and wherein the adhesive strip is positioned at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than top ends of the first and second seams;a removable protective strip that covers the adhesive strip, the plastic bag being configured such that when the protective strip is removed, and the adhesive strip is brought into contact with the opposing portion of internal surface of the second panel a seal is formed that closes the plastic bag and a first vent is formed between the top of the first seam and the seal and a second vent is formed between the top of the second seam and the seal, wherein the vents are sufficiently large to enable the venting of steam therethrough while being sufficiently small to prevent the passage of a human hand therethrough; anda tear feature positioned at a level that is lower on the plastic bag than the adhesive strip, the tear feature being configured to facilitate opening the bag after it has been sealed to thereby provide access to the content receiving region of the plastic bag; anda handle formed as cut-outs in upper portions of the first and second panels at a location above the adhesive strip.

20. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 19 further comprising a third seam that secures the first panel to the second panel at a vertical location below the tear feature, and a horizontal location between the first seam and the second seam to form two compartments of the content receiving region of the plastic bag.

21. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 19 wherein: the plastic bag is a wave top plastic bag and each panel has a wave upper portion at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than the top ends of the seams;the adhesive strip is disposed on the wave upper portion of the first panel; andthe vents extend laterally inward from their associated seams along a top edge of the wave upper portions of the panels.

22. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 21 wherein the tear feature is positioned in the wave upper portions of the panels at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than the top ends of the seams.

23. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 21 wherein the tear feature is at a level that is lower on the plastic bag than the top ends of the seams.

24. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 21 further comprising a die cut handle formed in the wave upper portions of the first and second panels at a location above the adhesive strip.

25. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 21 wherein the tear feature includes at least one of a perforation and a tear notch.

26-30. (canceled)

31. A top opening, tamper evident, plastic food or beverage carrier bag comprising: a plastic sheet folded to form opposing first and second panels of the plastic bag and a bottom gusset, each panel having an internal surface that faces the opposing panel, an exterior surface, and a wave top upper portion, the first and second panels having substantially identical footprints;a first seam that secures the first panel to the second panel on a first side edge of the plastic bag;a second seam that secures the first panel to the second panel on a second side edge of the plastic bag, the first and second seams cooperating with the first and second panels and the bottom gusset to form the top opening bag with a content receiving region between the panels, and wherein the wave top upper portions of the first and second panels are at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than the top ends of the first and second seams and all regions of the first and second panels above the first and second seams are narrower in width than a width between the first and second seams;a laterally extending single use closure adhesive strip disposed on the internal surface of the wave top upper portion of the first panel, the adhesive strip being positioned opposite an opposing portion of the internal surface of the wave top upper portion of the second panel, wherein the adhesive strip extends continuously across the wave top upper portion of the first panel between opposite edges of the wave top upper portion of the first panel;a removable protective strip that covers the adhesive strip, the plastic bag being configured such that when the protective strip is removed, and the adhesive strip is brought into contact with the opposing portion of internal surface of the second panel a seal is formed that closes the plastic bag and a first vent is formed between the top of the first seam and the seal and a second vent is formed between the top of the second seam and the seal, the vents extending laterally inward from their associated seams along a top edge of the wave top upper portions of the panels, wherein the vents are sufficiently large to enable the venting of steam therethrough while being sufficiently small to prevent the passage of a human hand therethrough; anda tear feature positioned at a level that is lower on the plastic bag than the adhesive strip, the tear feature being configured to facilitate opening the bag after it has been sealed to thereby provide access to the content receiving region of the plastic bag; anda handle formed as cut-outs in upper portions of the first and second panels at a location above the adhesive strip.

32. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 19 wherein: all upper portions of the first and second panels that are at a level that is higher on the plastic bag than the top ends of the first and second seams, including the portions of the internal surface of the first panel that underlie the adhesive strip, are narrower in width than a width between the first and second seams; andthe adhesive strip and the removable protective strip each extend continuously across the first panel between opposite edges of the first panel; andwhereby no portion of the adhesive strip or the removable protective strip are positioned directly above the top end of either of the first and second seams.

33. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 19 wherein the first and second panels have substantially identical footprints and no portion of the removable protective strip extends beyond the footprint of the first and second panels.

34. The tamper evident plastic bag as recited in claim 19 wherein the tamper evident plastic bag is a food or beverage carrier bag.