Packaging material having an expansion layer and packaging enclosure formed therefrom

Abstract

A packaging material comprising one or more expandable layers that provide protection for the contents of a packaging enclosure formed from the packaging material. The packaging material includes at least a first layer and a second layer bonded together. The first layer is stretched or expanded in a first direction, effectively expanding the second layer in a second direction. The second layer is a cut pattern layer that provides structural strength to the packaging material when expanded.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to packaging materials. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a fully renewable packaging material comprising at least a first layer and a second layer operably engaged with each other. In this packaging material, expansion of the first layer in a first direction causes the second layer to expand in the first direction and in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. When the second layer expands in the second direction, the thickness of the second layer increases, opening multiple air pockets within the layer and providing increased structural strength to the packaging material. The present disclosure also relates to a packaging enclosure made from the expandable packaging material and a method for customizing the packaging enclosure based on the dimensions of an item to be transported therein. [Background technology]

[0002] Background technical information Online shopping has greatly increased the demand for packaging products and services that enable the safe transportation and delivery of goods and materials to consumers. However, many packaging materials are not recyclable, are bulky, and tend to end up in landfills after use.

[0003] Paper-based packaging products, such as rigid corrugated cardboard (e.g., corrugated cardboard), are recyclable and may be more environmentally friendly than other types of packaging. However, such corrugated cardboard packaging has limited ability to protect packaged items when folded because the strength of the cardboard is compromised by such folding and pre-assembly processes. Additionally, corrugated cardboard typically requires items to be placed in preformed box-shaped packages that do not match the shape or size of the items being shipped. While a corrugated cardboard package of the most suitable shape and size is typically selected, it is usually necessary to include additional packaging materials (e.g., foam pellets or plastic bladders) within this package to provide adequate protection for the items held therein. Many of these additional packaging materials are not renewable. As a result, transportation and environmental costs increase in order to adequately protect items during delivery and transportation. Furthermore, the need for these additional materials adds a degree of complexity to the packaging of items. Thus, current packaging products, systems, and methods are undesirable in terms of recyclability, environmental impact, flexibility, and cost. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure relates to devices, methods, and various implementations for implementing packaging materials having one or more expandable layers, as well as packaging enclosures formed therefrom. In various embodiments, packaging materials according to the present disclosure include at least two layers: a first layer, also referred to herein as a substrate layer, and a second layer, also referred to herein as a cut pattern layer. The first layer is stretched or expanded in at least a first direction, thereby effectively expanding the second layer of the packaging material. Upon expansion, the second layer advantageously provides structural strength to the packaging material. After operably engaging the first and second layers with each other, the packaging material can be formed into rolls, sheets, sleeves, and the like. Thus, the disclosed packaging materials with expandable layers are suitable for various levels of packaging automation, on-site packaging operations, or pre-forming into packaging enclosures of various customized sizes or shapes.

[0005] In one embodiment, a packaging enclosure formed from the disclosed packaging material closely conforms to the size of the packaged item, and the inherent structural strength of the packaging material eliminates the need for additional packaging filler to protect the product transported within the enclosure. In this manner, customized packaging requires less packaging material than examples of conventionally known packaging materials. As a result, customized packaging according to the present disclosure is less expensive to use and more environmentally friendly than conventionally known packaging materials, since there is less packaging to reuse or discard after the customer removes the transported item from the packaging envelope. Additionally, because the disclosed packaging material is made from fully renewable materials, the packaging enclosure can be reused rather than disposed of in landfills.

[0006] In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a packaging material comprising a first layer and a second layer operably engaged with the first layer, wherein the first layer is selectively expandable in at least a first direction, the second layer is expandable in at least the first direction in response to expansion of the first layer, and the second layer is further expandable in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0007] In one embodiment, the first layer is a renewable material. In one embodiment, the renewable material is a recyclable paper-based material. In one embodiment, the second layer is a renewable material. In one embodiment, the renewable material is a recyclable paper-based material. In one embodiment, the first layer is movable between a contracted state and an expanded state, the first layer including one or more pleats when in the contracted state, and the one or more pleats disappear when the first layer moves in a first direction to the expanded state. In one embodiment, the second layer is movable between a contracted state and an expanded state, the second layer including one or more pleats when in the contracted state, and the one or more pleats disappear when the second layer moves in a first direction to the expanded state.

[0008] In one embodiment, the second layer includes a plurality of slits extending between the upper and lower surfaces of the second layer. In one embodiment, the plurality of slits in the second layer are arranged in a pattern. In one embodiment, the pattern of the plurality of slits is uniform across the entire length and width of the second layer. In one embodiment, when the second layer is expanded in a first direction, the plurality of slits open, forming air pockets. In one embodiment, when the second layer is expanded in a second direction, the thickness of the second layer increases, the thickness being measured between the upper and lower surfaces of the second layer.

[0009] In one embodiment, the first and second layers expand in the X or Y plane when expanded in a first direction, and expand in the Z direction when expanded in a second direction. In one embodiment, the first and second layers are joined to one another to allow the first and second layers to expand in the first direction and the second layer to expand in the second direction. In one embodiment, the packaging material further comprises a third layer expandable in the first direction, the second layer sandwiched between the first and third layers. In one embodiment, the third layer is substantially identical to the first layer. In one embodiment, the third layer is substantially identical to the second layer.

[0010] In another aspect, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a packaging enclosure for an article, the packaging enclosure comprising: a length of packaging material configured to form a front and a rear of the packaging enclosure; and an internal cavity adapted to receive the article, the internal cavity being bounded and defined by the front and rear; the packaging material comprising a first layer and a second layer operably engaged with the first layer, the first layer expanding in a first direction, the second layer expanding in the first direction in response to the expansion of the first layer, and the second layer expanding in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; and side edges of the front and rear of the length of packaging material being joined to one another to prevent access to the internal cavity.

[0011] In one embodiment, the packaging material includes a third layer that expands in a first direction, and a second layer sandwiched between the first and third layers, the third layer comprising a liner that defines an internal cavity. In one embodiment, the second layer includes a plurality of slits formed therein, and when the second layer expands in the second direction, the slits open, forming air pockets in the second layer. In one embodiment, the second layer increases in thickness when expanded in the second direction. In one embodiment, one or both of the first and second layers include one or more pleats that unfold when the first and second layers or both are expanded.

[0012] In another aspect, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a method comprising receiving a sheet of packaging material having at least an expandable cut pattern layer, applying a force to the sheet of packaging material, and expanding the cut pattern layer in a direction generally perpendicular to the direction of the force.

[0013] In one embodiment, the method further comprises selecting a length of packaging material based on the dimensions of the item to be transported, and forming a packaging enclosure with the length of packaging material after the cut pattern layer is expanded.

[0014] The details of one or more implementations of the presently disclosed packaging materials and packaging enclosures formed therefrom are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] Example embodiments of the disclosure are described in the following description, shown in the drawings, and particularly and distinctly pointed out in the appended claims.

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top view of an expandable first layer of a portion of a packaging material according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first layer including one or more pleats and shown in an unexpanded state. [Figure 2]2 is a side perspective view of a first layer of the portion of the packaging material of FIG. 1, illustrating how the first layer of packaging material is expandable when one or more pleats are unfolded. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a top view of a first embodiment of a portion of a packaging material showing both an expandable first layer and an expandable second layer, with both the first layer and the second layer in an unexpanded state. [Figure 4] 4 is a top view of the portion of the packaging material of FIG. 3 shown in an expanded state, illustrating that upon expansion of the first layer, the width of the expanded second layer contracts slightly. [Figure 5] 4 is a side elevational view of a portion of the packaging material of FIG. 3 shown in an unexpanded state. [Figure 6] 5 is a side elevational view of a portion of the packaging material of FIG. 4 shown in an expanded state, illustrating how the second layer has expanded in the Z direction. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a top view of a second embodiment of a portion of packaging material similar to FIG. 3 , with both the expandable first layer and the expandable second layer shown in an unexpanded state, and with the second packaging layer including one or more pleats. [Figure 8] 8 is a top view of the portion of the packaging material of FIG. 7 shown in an expanded state, illustrating that upon expansion of the first layer, the width of the expanded second layer does not substantially change. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a top view of a third embodiment of a portion of packaging material similar to FIG. 3 , wherein both the expandable first layer and the expandable second layer include one or more pleats, and the one or more pleats of the second layer are oblique to the side edges of the first layer. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates an exemplary method for carrying out the manufacture of packaging materials according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 illustrates an exemplary manufacturing apparatus for packaging material according to an aspect of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1 illustrates an exemplary method for making a packaging housing with packaging material according to the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a packaging enclosure made from packaging material according to the present disclosure. [Figure 14A]14A is a vertical cross-section through the packaging housing shown along line 14A-14A in FIG. 13, where the packaging material is made from two expandable layers. [Figure 14B] 14B is a vertical cross-sectional view through the packaging housing shown along line 14B-14B of FIG. 13, where the packaging material is made from three expandable layers. Like numbers refer to like parts throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] 1-14B, there is shown a packaging material according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, generally designated 10, and a packaging enclosure 12, 112 formed therefrom (FIGS. 14A and 14B) that can be used to hold and protect an item 14 being transported to a remote location.

[0018] The packaging material 10 includes one or more expandable layers to provide protection for the contents of any packaging enclosure 12, 112 made from the packaging material 10. As shown in FIG. 3, the packaging material 10 includes at least two layers operably engaged with one another. The at least two layers are operably engaged by being glued or otherwise joined to one another. As shown in FIGS. 1-14A, the packaging material 10, 110, 210 includes at least an expandable first layer 100 and an expandable second layer 200. Each of these two layers 100, 200 is described in detail below.

[0019] 1 and 2 illustrate a portion of a typical first layer 100 used in the packaging material 10, 110, 210. The first layer 100 is also referred to herein as the "substrate layer 100" or the "carrier layer 100," and these terms may be used interchangeably herein. The first layer 100 is formed of a paper product and is substantially solid throughout its width, length, and thickness. In other words, the first layer 100 does not have any openings or slits. Because the first layer 100 is composed of a paper-based product, it can be recycled after use. As described below, the first layer 100 is initially solid and flat / smooth, but is folded during the initial stages of manufacturing the packaging material 10, 110, 210. FIG. 1 illustrates the first layer 100 after a plurality of pleats 102 have been formed. Once the first layer 100 is incorporated into the packaging material 10, 110, 210, the first layer 100 is unfolded to move the second layer 200. FIG. 2 shows the first layer 100 being stretched or unfolded, with the pleats 102 beginning to unfold. Once the packaging housing 14 is formed (as described later herein), the first layer 100 returns to its original state, i.e., unfolded and smooth, and the pleats 102 disappear. In this manner, the first layer 100 is suitable for forming the outer layer of the packaging housing 12 ( FIG. 13 ) that will be manufactured from the packaging material 10.

[0020] 1-6, the first layer 100 will be described in more detail. The first layer 100 includes an upper surface 100a, a lower surface 100b, a first end 100c, a second end 100d, a first side 100e, and a second side 100f. A longitudinal axis "Y" (FIG. 1) of the first layer 100 extends between the first end 100c and the second end 100d and defines a longitudinal direction. A left-right axis "X" of the first layer 100 extends between the first side 100e and the second side 100f and defines a left-right direction oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. A vertical axis "Z" (FIGS. 5 and 6) of the first layer 100 extends between the upper surface 100a and the lower surface 100b and defines a vertical direction oriented perpendicular to each of the longitudinal and left-right directions. The vertical direction (or Z direction) is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal and left-right directions, i.e., at right angles.

[0021] As described above in this specification, the first layer 100 is initially smooth and unpleated, but prior to forming the packaging material 10, a series of pleats are formed in the first layer 100 to shorten the overall length of the layer. In one embodiment, shown in FIG. 1, one or more Z-shaped pleats 102 are formed in the first layer 100 by creating a series of opposing folds 104, 106. FIG. 1 illustrates a typical configuration of the first layer 100, in which each fold 104, 106 is oriented generally parallel to the transverse axis "X" and therefore perpendicular to the longitudinal axis "Y." Fold 104 is visible when the first layer 100 is viewed from above, while fold 106 is hidden when the first layer 100 is viewed from above. When the first layer 100 is in this folded, contracted state, the first layer 100 has a length "L" measured between a first end 100c and a second end 100d. First layer 100 also has a width "W" measured between first side 100e and second side 100f. As shown in FIG. 5, first layer 100 also has a thickness "T" measured between upper surface 100a and lower surface 100b. As previously indicated herein, first layer 100 eventually returns to a deployed or expanded state by stretching or unfolding (or expanding) first layer 100 and deploying the various pleats 102. The arrangement of pleats 102 shown in FIG. 1 allows first layer 100, upon deployment, to also stretch, unfold, or expand in a first direction oriented parallel to longitudinal axis "Y" and return to its original smooth state and original deployed length.

[0022] It will be understood that in other embodiments (not shown herein), one or more Z-shaped pleats may be oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis "Y," in which case the first layer 100 is extensible in a second direction parallel to the left-right direction "X." In still other embodiments, the first layer may include one or more Z-shaped pleats oriented diagonally to the "Y" axis and / or diagonally to the "X" axis, thereby allowing extensibility in a direction diagonal to either or both the "Y" axis or the "X" axis. In still other embodiments, a plurality of differently oriented pleats may be formed in the first layer, allowing the first layer to extensible in one or more directions parallel to the longitudinal axis "Y," and / or parallel to the left-right direction "X," and / or parallel to an axis diagonal to the "Y" or "X" axis. It will be understood that the number, orientation, and placement of the pleats will be selected to suit the particular type of packaging enclosure to be manufactured using the packaging material and the particular packaging equipment utilized to form the packaging enclosure using the packaging material.

[0023] It is further understood that in other embodiments (not shown herein), pleat patterns different from the illustrated Z-shaped pleat pattern may be used to initially reduce the overall length and / or width of the first layer. Any suitable pleat pattern and orientation of differently configured pleats may be used to reduce the overall length and / or width of the first layer 10. It is further understood that in other embodiments (not shown herein), the first layer is configured to be expandable without one or more pleats.

[0024] 3 and 4, the second layer 200 is shown along with the unexpanded first layer 100. The second layer 200 may also be referred to herein as the "cut pattern layer 200" or the "core layer 200." These terms may be used interchangeably herein. Like the first layer 100, the second layer 200 is comprised of a paper-based product and is recyclable.

[0025] In some embodiments, as described above, the packaging material is paper-based. However, in other embodiments, materials other than paper are contemplated for use in packaging material 10. For example, materials such as poly film, polymer film, resin-based film, plastic, TYVEK®, metal fiber composites, etc. (TYVEK is a registered trademark of DUPONT SAFETY & CONSTRUCTION, INC., Wilmington, Delaware, USA) can be used in combination with paper-based materials and / or with each other to achieve packaging material 10 with desired characteristics or meeting specific specifications (e.g., related to manufacturing or assembly). In these other embodiments, one or both of first layer 100 and second layer 200 can be formed from a paper-based product or a material other than paper. To ensure that packaging material 10, 110, 210 and the resulting packaging enclosure are fully recyclable, it is preferred that paper-based materials be used for all of at least two layers of the packaging material of the present disclosure.

[0026] The second layer 200 has an upper surface 200a, a lower surface 200b (FIGS. 5 and 6), a first end 200c, a second end 200d, a first side 200e, and a second side 200f. FIG. 3 illustrates a configuration in which the first end 100c of the first layer 100 is aligned with the first end 200c of the second layer 200. Similarly, the second end 100d of the first layer 100 is aligned with the second end 200d of the second layer 200. FIG. 3 also illustrates a configuration in which the first side 100e of the first layer 100 is spaced outward from the first side 200e of the second layer 200f, and the second side 100f of the first layer 100 is spaced outward from the second side 200f of the second layer 200. It is understood that this configuration is merely exemplary, and that end portions 100c, 100d and side portions 100e, 100f of first layer 100 may be aligned with end portions 200c, 200d and side portions 200e, 200f of second layer 200. Although not shown herein, in other embodiments, one or more of end portions 200c, 200d and / or side portions 200e, 200f of second layer 200 may extend outward from the associated end and / or side of first layer 100. In other words, the length and width of first layer 100 and second layer 200 are selected based on the application for which packaging material 10 will be utilized and how packaging material 10 needs to be manufactured to produce the desired packaging enclosure.

[0027] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, a plurality of slits 200g are cut into the second layer 200. Each slit 200g extends between the top surface 200a and the bottom surface 200b. The plurality of slits 200g are arranged to form a pattern in the second layer 200. This pattern is a regular pattern that uniformly distributes the slits 200g across the entire length and width of the second layer 200b. In other embodiments, the slit pattern may not be regular or uniform across the entire length and width of the second layer 200, but may be located in specific areas where final structural strength is desired. Any suitable pattern of slits 200g may be used in the second layer 200 based on the end use of the packaging enclosure to be manufactured from the packaging material 10, 110, 210. The pattern of slits 200g shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 is exemplary of one possible pattern of slits 200g suitable for use in the packaging material 10, although other suitable slit or opening patterns may be employed instead.

[0028] 3 and 7 show the second layer 200 in an initial, unexpanded state. In this unexpanded state, the second layer 200 has a length "L" that is approximately the same as the length "L" of the first layer 100. The second layer 200 also has a width "W1." In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 3, the width "W1" is less than the width "W" of the first layer 100 such that a border region (unnumbered) of the first layer 100 extends laterally outward beyond the first and second side edges 200e, 200f of the second layer 200. In other embodiments, not shown herein, the width "W1" of the second layer 200 is equal to or greater than the width "W" of the first layer 100.

[0029] 5 shows the thickness (i.e., height) of the first layer, shown as thickness "T." The thickness of the unexpanded second layer 200 is shown as thickness "T1." In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 5, thicknesses "T" and "T1" are approximately equal in size, while in other embodiments not shown herein, thickness "T1" of second layer 200 may be less than or greater than thickness "T" of first layer 100.

[0030] The second layer 200 is bonded or adhered to the first layer 100 in any suitable manner that allows the first layer 100 to move the second layer 200, thereby allowing both the first layer 100 and the second layer 200 to go from an unstretched or unexpanded state to an expanded state. In particular, upon application of a force in direction "A" (FIGS. 1 and 2) to at least the first layer 100, the first layer 100 expands, stretches, or spreads longitudinally in direction "A" from a length "L" to a length "L1". It is understood that the first layer 100 stretches or expands in direction "A" in a plane (from the first side 100e to the second side 100f). The expansion of the first layer 100 moves the second layer 200, which likewise expands longitudinally in a plane in direction "A" from a length "L" to a length "L1".

[0031] Thus, the first layer 100 is a substrate or carrier layer to which one or more other layers (such as the second layer 200) are bonded or adhered, and this substrate or carrier layer has the ability to move and expand one or more other expansion layers.

[0032] As the second layer 200 expands in response to the force and stretches in direction "A," the plurality of slits 200g (FIG. 3) stretch longitudinally and open, creating air pockets 200g' (FIG. 4) in the second layer 200 where the slits 200g previously were. The second layer 200 not only expands in the Y direction along with the first layer 100, but also in the Z direction (FIG. 6). Each of the air pockets 200g' assumes a three-dimensional geometric shape as the second layer 200 expands in the Z direction. In other words, as the second layer 200 expands longitudinally, the height of the second layer 200 also increases, increasing its thickness from thickness "T" to thickness "T2" (FIGS. 5 and 6). During the longitudinal expansion of the first layer 100, the first layer 100 maintains a constant thickness "T." It will be appreciated that the geometric shape of the air pockets 200g' is determined by the original shape of the slits 200g cut in the second layer 200. For example, each air pocket 200g' may be hexagonal in shape when viewed from above, or may be oval, elliptical, diamond-shaped, octagonal, rectangular, or any other desired configuration.

[0033] The second layer 200, i.e., the cut pattern layer 200, is suitable for forming the inner layer (FIG. 14A) of the packaging housing 12 manufactured from the packaging material 10. The second layer 200 provides protection for the contents of the packaging housing, as well as compressive strength and torsional flexibility or cushioning to the packaging housing. The expanded second layer 200 also conforms to the perimeter of an object held within the packaging housing 12, as described later in this specification.

[0034] 1 and 4, as described above, the first layer 100 is configured to be pulled or elongated in at least a first direction (e.g., in two planes, such as X, Y, or X and Y) upon application of a tensile force. Upon application of a tensile force in direction "A" to at least the first layer 100, the first layer 100 expands longitudinally in direction "A" parallel to the longitudinal axis "Y." The Z-shaped pleats 102 in the first layer 100 unfold and the folds 104, 106 flatten. Approximately simultaneously, the second layer 200 is moved, expanding longitudinally in direction "A," opening the plurality of slits 200g and further expanding perpendicularly in the Z direction. As shown in Figure 4, when the first layer 100 is in a fully deployed or expanded state, the first layer 100 has the same width "W" as in the collapsed or unexpanded state (Figure 1), but the length of the first layer 100 has increased from length "L" to length "L1." As shown in Figure 4, the fully deployed or expanded first layer 100 does not have any folds 104, 106, or pleats 102.

[0035] The second layer 200 also has a length "L1" when fully expanded, but the width of the second layer 200 contracts to a width "W2" (FIG. 4). In other words, the cut pattern layer 200 substantially contracts in width upon expansion of the packaging material 10, thereby creating a width mismatch between the cut pattern layer 200 and the substrate layer 100 to which the second layer 200 is adhered or bonded. Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, to compensate for the reduced width of the second layer 200 upon expansion, the cut pattern layer 200 is formed and / or cut so that excess material is available in that width. In other words, the cut pattern layer 200 is provided with a width greater than the width "W" of the substrate layer 100 so that, as the packaging material 110 is stretched or expanded, the cut pattern layer 200 maintains a width "W1" that approximates the apparent width "W1" of the second layer 200 before expansion. 7 and 8 show a second layer 200 of packaging material 110 provided with a width greater than the width "W" of first layer 100. The additional width is initially accommodated by forming one or more pleats 202 in second layer 200. FIG. 7 shows one pleat 202 formed in second layer 200. Each of the one or more pleats 202 is substantially identical to the one or more pleats 102 formed in first layer 100 (see FIGS. 1 and 2). As such, each pleat 202 is a Z-shaped pleat formed by making two opposing folds in second layer 200, the two folds being substantially identical to folds 104 and 106 shown in FIG. 2. In other embodiments, one or more pleats 202 (similar to fold 102) may be configured differently from a Z-shape. To overcome the width shrinkage problem, the second layer 200 is provided with multiple pleats 202 .

[0036] 7, the single pleat 202 formed in the second layer 200 is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis "Y" and thus perpendicular to the transverse axis "X." The pleat 202 is therefore oriented perpendicular to the pleats 102 of the first layer 100. In particular, the pleat 202 is oriented parallel to the direction in which the first layer 100 and the second layer 200 extend. In other embodiments, one or more pleats 202 may be oriented in the same or a different direction as the pleats 102 of the first layer 100.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 7 , the initial width of the second layer 200 in the unexpanded packaging material is width “W1.” The pleats 202 provide enough excess material for the second layer 200 during the expansion of the packaging material 110 that the final width of the second layer 200 is maintained at width “W1.” As the second layer 200 expands longitudinally and vertically in response to the first layer 100 being pulled in direction “A,” the pleats 202 unfold and flatten while the second layer 200 contracts laterally. As a result of the pleats 202 unfolding and flattening, the second layer 200 maintains width “W1” while its thickness increases to “T2” ( FIG. 8 ). It can thus be seen that the second layer 200 originally had width “W1” only in appearance. The second layer 200 is actually wider than width “W1.” It will be understood that, except for the provision of one or more pleats 202 and the increase in original width, all other structural and functional aspects of the second layer 200 in the packaging material 110 are identical to the second layer 200 described above with respect to Figures 1-4 and packaging material 10. The first layer 100 shown in Figures 7 and 8 is structurally and functionally identical to the first layer 100 shown in Figures 1-4 described hereinabove.

[0038] Although the second layer 200 is disclosed herein as including one or more pleats 202, in other embodiments (not shown herein), the second layer 200 may be made of an expandable material without the need for any pleats to be formed.

[0039] It should be noted that the first layer 100, i.e., substrate layer 100, is preferably kept wider than the effective width of the second layer 200 before and after expansion of the packaging material 10 in order to maintain a boundary on either side of the second layer 200. The boundary regions extend between the first side 100e and the second side 200e of the first and second layers 100, 200, and between the second side 100f and the second side 200f of the first and second layers 100, 200. These boundary regions are utilized to form the packaging enclosure, as described later in this specification.

[0040] Although not shown herein, in some embodiments, a line of weakness may be formed in the border region of one or both of packaging materials 10, 110, and 210. The line of weakness is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis "Y" and provides an area on the final packaging housing 12 where a user can tear open the sealed packaging housing to access the contents.

[0041] Referring now to FIG. 9, a third embodiment of a packaging material according to the present disclosure, generally designated packaging material 210, is shown. Packaging material 210 comprises a first layer 100 identical in structure and function to first layer 100 shown in FIGS. 1-6. Second layer 200 differs from second layer 200 shown in FIGS. 1-4 in that, in this third embodiment, second layer 200 initially has a length "L" greater than the length "L" of first layer 100 and second layer 200, and a width "W1" greater than the width "W1" of second layer 200. The excess length and width of second layer 200 are accommodated in one or more pleats 202' formed in second layer 200. Pleats 202', similar to pleats 202, are Z-shaped and formed in the same manner as pleats 202. However, the pleats 202' are oriented differently than the pleats 202 formed in the second layer 200 shown in Figures 7 and 8. As discussed above, the pleats 202 are oriented generally parallel to the longitudinal axis "Y" of the piece of packaging material 110. However, in packaging material 210, the pleats 202' are oriented obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis "Y" (and therefore also obliquely relative to the transverse axis "X").

[0042] As the first layer 100 of the packaging material 210 expands in direction "A," the one or more pleats 102 of the first layer 100 and the one or more pleats 202' of the second layer 200 unfold and flatten. As the packaging material 210 expands in the Z direction, the width "W1" and length "L1" of the second layer 200 remain nominally unchanged because the excess material in the pleats 202' compensates for the contraction of the second layer 200 as it expands vertically. Thus, the configuration of the second layer 200 in the packaging material 200 compensates for the contraction of the second layer 200 in the longitudinal and side-to-side directions as the second layer 200 expands longitudinally in the Y direction and vertically in the Z direction.

[0043] It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the pleats 202' are not Z-shaped and, like the pleats 102, may be configured differently and have a different orientation than that shown in FIG.

[0044] It is further understood that the location of one or more pleats 102, 202, and 202' in the associated first layer 100 and second layer 200 may differ from the locations shown in Figures 1-9. It is understood that any desired number of pleats 102, 202, and 202' may be formed in any desired location and / or orientation and / or arrangement to suit the application of the packaging method and apparatus in which the packaging material 10, 110, 210 is fabricated into a packaging enclosure.

[0045] 1-9, the second layer 200 is adhered or bonded to the first layer 100 in each of the packaging materials 10, 110, and 210. The second layer 200 may be attached to the first layer 100 adjacent to the periphery of the second layer 200. The adhesion may be completed so as not to hinder the unfolding of the pleats 102 in the first layer 100. Adhesion adjacent to the periphery of the second layer allows the pleats 102 of the substrate and any pleats 202, 202' of the cut pattern layer to easily unfold as the packaging material is stretched, and further allows the second layer 200 to expand vertically as shown in FIG. 8. The adhesion between the first layer 100 and the second layer 200 may be achieved by an adhesive, a coating, mechanical means, pressure and / or heat, or any combination thereof.

[0046] 10 and 11 illustrate an exemplary method and an exemplary apparatus for carrying out the production of rolled packaging material 10, 110, 210 according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The method and apparatus combine a first layer 100 and a second layer 200 to form the rolled packaging material 10, 110, 210. The exemplary method is shown in FIG. 10 and generally designated as method 300. An exemplary apparatus for carrying out method 300 is shown in FIG. 11 and generally designated as apparatus 400.

[0047] 10 and 11, a product is received that is configured to include a substrate layer (i.e., first layer 100) of packaging material 10, 110, and 210. This substrate layer 100, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, is a paper-based product. In one embodiment, the first layer may be, for example, kraft paper.

[0048] At 304, a product configured to include a cut pattern layer (i.e., second layer 200) of packaging material 10, 110, and 210 is received. This second layer 200, in one embodiment of the present disclosure, is a paper-based product. In one embodiment, the second layer may be, for example, kraft paper or corrugated paper.

[0049] At 306, the exemplary apparatus forms slits 200g (FIG. 3) in the second layer 200. The slits 200g are not shown in FIG. 11 for clarity of depiction. In other embodiments, the second layer 200 is pre-treated by cutting slits 200g into kraft paper or corrugated paper, after which the pre-treated second layer 200 is introduced into the exemplary apparatus to bond the second layer 200 to the first layer 100.

[0050] 11 shows that the second layer 200 is cut longitudinally into narrower strips oriented parallel to the feed direction "B" of the second layer 200, such that gaps 200h are defined between adjacent strips. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the second layer 200 may not be cut into narrower strips.

[0051] At 308, one or more pleats 202 are formed in the second layer 200, i.e., the cut pattern layer. The one or more pleats are Z-shaped pleats or other configurations of pleats that allow the second layer 200 to be fed into and moved through a typical apparatus. The Z-shaped pleats may be positioned at various locations along the length of the second layer 200, for example, to move back and forth across the width of the second layer 200. The one or more pleats 202 are positioned parallel to the longitudinal axis "Y" of the second layer 200, and thus parallel to the feed direction "B" of the second layer 200.

[0052] In other embodiments, instead of pleats 202 formed in the second layer 200, one or more pleats 202' may be formed in the second layer 200, with the pleats 202' oriented obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis "Y" and thus obliquely relative to the feed direction "B." In yet other embodiments (not shown herein), one or more pleats may be formed in the second layer 200 that are oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis "Y" and thus perpendicular to the feed direction "B." As discussed above herein, the second layer 200 is capable of expanding in the Z direction in response to tension, i.e., stretching, thereby increasing in thickness.

[0053] At 310, the substrate layer 100 is folded into one or more pleats 102. The pleats 102 may be Z-pleats or other configurations of pleats that allow the first layer 100 to be fed into and moved through a typical apparatus. The Z-pleats 102 may be positioned at various locations along the length of the first layer 100. The pleats 102 may be positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis "Y" of the first layer 100, and thus perpendicular to the feed direction "B" (FIG. 11). The feed direction "B" is the same as the direction "A" in which the packaging material 10, 110, 210 will ultimately be expanded, as shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 5, and 9.

[0054] As described above, the substrate layer 100 is a stock material, such as kraft paper, that is folded by the exemplary apparatus 400. In other embodiments, the substrate layer 100 may be pre-treated by forming pleats 102 and then fed into the exemplary apparatus for bonding with the second layer 200.

[0055] At 312, the first layer 100 and the second layer 200 are bonded to one another. In one embodiment, the first layer 100 and the second layer 200 may be bonded near the first and second sides 200e, 200f of the second layer 200. In one embodiment, the bonding is not located along the Z-folds 102, 202, 202', thereby allowing these areas of the first layer 100 and / or second layer 200 to easily unfold as the packaging material 10, 110, 210 is stretched.

[0056] At 314, the first layer 100 and second layer 200, now bonded and joined to one another, are wound onto a roll core "C." Multiple strips of bonding material, i.e., packaging material 10, 110, and 210, may be wound onto the core "C." The wound-up rolls of packaging material 10, 110, 210 may be further processed, such as being cut into individual rolls each containing a single smaller strip. In other embodiments, instead of being wound onto a core "C," the packaging material may be formed into a sheet or sleeve or otherwise configured.

[0057] FIG. 11 illustrates an apparatus 400 capable of performing the method 300 shown in FIG. 10 . The second layer 200 is introduced into the apparatus 400 and passes through a cutting mechanism 402, which cuts out a pattern of slits 200g, as described herein above. At this point, the second layer 200 is not expanded, so the slits 200g are “at rest” and have not opened to form air pockets, i.e., openings 200g′. After passing through the cutting mechanism 402, the second layer 200 may also be referred to as a cut pattern layer 200. The cutting mechanism 402 may remove portions of the cut pattern layer 200, leaving gaps 200h between elongated strips of the cut pattern layer 200. While four portions of the layer 200 are shown removed, it is understood that in other embodiments, fewer or more than four portions of the layer 200 may be removed. As noted herein above, in some embodiments, no portion of the cut pattern layer 200 may be removed; in these instances, the cutting mechanism 404 only cuts slits 200g in the second layer 200.

[0058] 11 , the pieces of cut pattern layer 200 are fed through a folding mechanism 406 that imparts one or more pleats 202 to each elongated strip of second material 200. The pleats 202 are oriented parallel to the feeding or moving direction "B." The substrate layer 100 is fed through a second folding mechanism 406 that imparts one or more pleats 102 to the substrate layer 100. As shown, the pleats 102 are oriented generally perpendicular to the feeding or moving direction "B."

[0059] The cut pattern layer 200 and the substrate layer 100 are fed into a bonding mechanism 408 that bonds the two layers together. The bonding between the two layers 100, 200 may be achieved by the application of adhesive, heat, and / or pressure, or by utilizing any other mechanism or substance. The bonded layers 100, 200 (whether cut into strips or manufactured without strips) may then be assembled into a roll or core "C." In some embodiments, smaller strips may be wound onto another smaller roll (not shown). In other examples, as described herein above, the packaging material may be cut into sheets.

[0060] It will be appreciated that the various steps 302-312 of the method 300 may be performed in a different order, and accordingly the various features 402, 404, 406, 408 of the apparatus 400 will be arranged differently to accommodate the order of the steps 302-312.

[0061] 12-14 illustrate the fabrication of an exemplary packaging housing 12 having one or more expandable layers using an exemplary method designated 500. In some embodiments, method 500 is performed by an apparatus (not shown) that provides customized sizing of the packaging housing 12. In these embodiments, the packaging housing 12 is customized in shape and size to hold and protect an article, object, or item within the interior cavity of the packaging housing 12, as described later herein. The article, object, or item 14 may also be referred to herein as the contents of the packaging housing.

[0062] In method 500, at step 502, packaging material 10, 110, 210 having one or more expandable layers 100, 200 therein is received. The packaging material 10, 110, 210 may be provided as a roll of material wrapped around a core "C" as shown in FIG. 11. The roll of packaging material 10, 110, 210 wrapped around a core "C" may be provided to a packaging apparatus configured to, among other things, use the length of packaging material to expand the one or more expandable layers 100, 200 and thereafter use it to form a packaging housing 12 (FIG. 14A).

[0063] After the packaging material 10, 110, 210 is received at 502 of the method 500, the substrate layer 100 (i.e., the first layer 100) is stretched or expanded longitudinally in direction "A" (FIGS. 1-6) at 504 to unfold one or more pleats 102 formed therein. The stretching or expansion of the first layer 100 or substrate layer 100 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0064] At 506, the cut pattern layer 200 (i.e., the second layer 200) transitions from an unexpanded state to an expanded state (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, or as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 if pleats 202 are present). The cut pattern layer 200 expands as a result of the expansion of the first layer 100. As the cut pattern layer 200 expands longitudinally, it also expands in the Z-direction, thereby increasing its height or thickness (as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8). The expansion of the cut pattern layer 200 opens slits 200g, forming air pockets 200g'. The cut pattern layer 200 expands longitudinally with the substrate layer 100 as it expands. If pleats 202 are present in the cut pattern layer 200, the pleats 202 unfold as the cut pattern layer 200 expands, providing additional width to the cut pattern layer 200. The expansion of the second layer 200 provides structural strength to the packaging materials 10, 110, and 210.

[0065] At 508, a length of packaging material 10, 110, 210 is determined for packaging a particular item, object, or item 14. The length may be determined automatically by a machine or manually by a human. The length may be customizable based on the dimensions of the item, object, or item 14 to be enclosed within the packaging enclosure 12. In other embodiments, the length of packaging material 10, 110, 210 may be a standard length used for all packaging enclosures. The standard length is used regardless of the item, object, or item 14 being packaged.

[0066] The length of packaging material is folded approximately in half to form front and back portions 12a, 12b (FIG. 14A) of what will ultimately become packaging housing 12. Front and back portions 12a, 12b are folded about pleats 12c (FIG. 14A). Front portion 12a terminates at a free end 12a' remote from pleats 12c. Similarly, back portion 12b terminates at a free end 12b' remote from pleats 12c.

[0067] At 510 of method 500 (FIG. 12), an adhesive is applied to the inner surfaces of the front and back portions 12a, 12b of the length of packaging material used to manufacture the packaging housing 12. The first layer 100 in some embodiments 10, 110, 210 may include an adhesive (e.g., a coating or adhesive) to enable closure of the packaging housing 12 formed from the packaging material 10, 110, 210. By way of example, a coating may be present on the top surface 100a of the first layer 100, particularly in the boundary areas extending outward from the first and second sides 200e, 200f of the second layer 200. The coating may adhere in response to heat, pressure, and / or moisture, or a combination thereof. In various embodiments, the heat-sensitive coating may effect sealing through a process performed manually, using equipment designed for this purpose, or any combination thereof. The joined front and rear portions 12a, 12b of the packaging housing 12 delimit and define an interior cavity in which an article, object, or item 14 is received.

[0068] When the side edges of the packaging housing 12 are joined together, an article, object, or item 14 is received within the interior cavity 12d, and the upper regions of the front and rear portions 12a, 12b are joined together to block access to the interior cavity 12d.

[0069] In other embodiments, not shown herein, two separate lengths of packaging material may be cut to fit the dimensions of the goods, objects, or items 14 to be contained within the packaging housing 12. The two cut lengths are then joined along their bottom edges and along opposing side edges (i.e., the border regions of the first layer 100), thereby forming an interior cavity 12d into which the goods, objects, or items 14 are inserted. Finally, the two lengths of packaging material are sealed together along their top edges to enclose the goods, objects, or items 14 within the interior cavity of the packaging housing.

[0070] As is evident from FIG. 14A, the extended second layer 200 contacts the article, object or item 14 and protects it from impact during transport.

[0071] 14B, an alternative packaging housing 12 is shown formed from a packaging material comprised of three layers: a first layer 100, a second layer 200, and a third layer 600. The third layer 600 is substantially identical in structure and function to the first layer 100, and is positioned so that the first layer 100, the second layer 200, and the third layer 600 are bonded or adhered to the surface of the second layer 200 opposite the first layer 100 so as to be easily expandable. When the three-layer packaging material is expanded and formed into the packaging housing 112, a first region of the packaging material forms the front portion 112a of the packaging housing 112. A second region of the expanded packaging material forms the rear portion 112b of the packaging housing 112b. Preferably, the length of packaging material is folded along pleats 112c to form front and back portions 112a and 112b, although in other embodiments, two separate pieces of packaging material may be joined along their bottom edges along opposing boundary regions near the side edges of first layer 100. The two separate pieces of packaging material are ultimately joined or glued together along their top edges. First layer 100 provides the outer surface of packaging housing 112 to which a mailing label (shown in FIG. 13 but unnumbered) is affixed. Third layer 600 provides an inner liner that defines interior cavity 112d of packaging housing 112. Second layer 200 is a protective layer with high structural strength that helps protect article, object, or item 14 during transport.

[0072] It is understood that in other embodiments, more than three layers may be provided in the packaging material, ultimately forming a customized package. In such packaging materials, multiple layers may be used that are the same as or similar to the first layer 100. Also, in such packaging materials, multiple layers may be used that are the same as or similar to the second layer.

[0073] In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a paper-based packaging system that enables a packaging device, machine, or person to form a customized package (e.g., a packet) that is customized for an item, object, or good to be shipped to a consumer.

[0074] The second layer 200 of the packaging material 10, 110, 210 used in the packaging system according to embodiments of the present disclosure comprises a filler material that expands longitudinally (and / or laterally) when stretched or pulled. This filler material also expands vertically, increasing in height or thickness, but may stretch longitudinally or laterally as it expands vertically. The filler material includes a plurality of slits that open to form air pockets as the filler material expands vertically. The filler material, i.e., the second layer 200, may initially be cut to a length and / or width greater than the substrate layer 100 to which the second layer 200 is adhered or bonded. One or more pleats formed in the second layer 200 may accommodate the additional length and / or width. As the second layer 200 expands in the longitudinal or laterally and vertical directions, the pleats of the second layer 200 unfold, causing the layer 200 to appear non-stretchable as the packaging material expands.

[0075] In one embodiment, the paper-based packaging material includes at least two layers. In some examples, the packaging material may include a substrate layer 100 that is stretched or unrolled in at least a first direction (X or Y direction), effectively causing a second layer 200 of the packaging material to expand in at least a third direction (i.e., Z direction). In such examples, the second layer of material may contract in a second direction (X or Y direction), which may include a direction perpendicular (i.e., orthogonal) to the first direction in which at least the first layer 100 is stretched.

[0076] For example, a paper-based packaging material may include two layers, with a liner (e.g., an extension layer) and an outer cardboard layer, such that when the packaging housing 12 is formed, the outer layer is smooth paper and the inner layer is the second layer 200.

[0077] In some embodiments, the paper-based packaging material may include at least three layers 100, 200, and 600 (FIG. 14B). The at least three layers may include an inner cardboard layer 100, an outer cardboard layer 600, and an expanding core layer 200 disposed between the inner and outer cardboard layers. Alternatively or additionally, the paper-based packaging material 10, 110, 210 may include one or more expanding core layers 200 (e.g., of the same or different types of expansion coefficients oriented in the same or different directions). In other words, some of the one or more core layers may have different patterns of slits 200g cut therein, resulting in air pockets 200g' of different shapes and sizes, or may expand to various different thicknesses based on the pattern of the slits formed. The inner and outer layers 100, 600 may be made of similar types or weights of paper, or may be made of different types or weights of paper. Using different types or weights of paper for the inner and outer layers 100, 600 may provide different levels of packaging protection, durability, etc.

[0078] In various embodiments, the packaging equipment may process the paper-based packaging material 10, 110, 210 in various combinations in one or more directions to increase the thickness or Z-height of the second layer 200 and other similar core layers.

[0079] In some instances, the substrate layer 100 (or 600) is stretched in one direction to expand the thickness of the liner 100 (or 600) and / or core layer 200.

[0080] In some embodiments, the direction in which the substrate layer 100 (or 600) is pulled to expand the core layer 200 may be east or west or north or south, or a combination thereof may occur simultaneously or sequentially. In other words, the directions of pleating of the substrate layer 100 and the liner layer 600 relative to the core layer 200 may be the same direction as each other, or may be different directions.

[0081] Some example embodiments of paper-based packaging materials according to aspects of the present disclosure include: a) a substrate layer (e.g., a solid and / or folded inner, middle, or outer paper-based layer) and an extension layer 200 that may form a liner of a packaging housing; b) a first substrate layer, a first extension liner, and a second extension layer (in any order); c) a first substrate layer, a first extension liner, a second extension layer, and a second substrate layer (in any order); d) a first substrate layer, a first extension liner, a second substrate layer, a second extension layer, and a third substrate layer (in any order); and e) a first substrate layer (inner), a first extension liner, a second substrate layer (middle), a second extension layer, and a third substrate layer (outer), where the layers may be folded or oriented in the same or different directions.

[0082] In some embodiments, the paper-based packaging material 10, 110, 210 can be formed in a roll (as shown in FIG. 11 ), a sheet, or the like. In this manner, the packaging material 10, 110, 210 is suitable for various levels of packaging automation or pre-forming into enclosures or packets of any size or shape. For example, a retailer may receive the paper-based packaging material 10, 110, 210 in a roll, which can be formed on-site into envelopes of any suitable shape and size for the products the retailer sells.

[0083] In some embodiments, the filler or core material, i.e., second layer 200, may stretch longitudinally but contract laterally, or may stretch laterally and contract longitudinally. In some embodiments, the length and / or width of second layer 200 may increase, and second layer 200 may be folded appropriately to compensate for the laterally or longitudinal contraction of layer 200 when stretched.

[0084] In some embodiments, the paper-based packaging material is formed so that the material can be fed into a machine with a minimal amount of air.

[0085] In some embodiments, the inner or outer layer (100 or 600) is folded such that the layer is expandable when stretched or pulled in the X or Y direction.

[0086] In some embodiments, the core layer or inner layer 200 is formed and / or cut so that excess material is available in width (or length) depending on the direction in which the substrate layer 100 is pulled. In other words, the inner or core layer 200 may have a larger dimension than the substrate layer 100 or liner 600 so that when the core layer 200 is stretched, i.e., expanded in the Z direction, to increase its height (or thickness), the excess width (or length) of the core layer 200 maintains the approximate width of the substrate layer 10 when pulled or unfolded from one end.

[0087] In some embodiments, the filler layer, core layer, or inner layer 200 is layered or placed on top of a liner layer 100, 600 that is a folded solid paper. In some embodiments, the filler layer 200 is attached at points along the edge of the inner layer 100, 600, allowing the inner layer 100, 600 to be tensioned in the X or Y direction.

[0088] When the liner layer 100, 600 is tensioned or expanded, the filler or core layer 200 expands across the liner layer 100, 600, effectively expanding the filler or core layer 200 in the Z direction. In some embodiments, the filler layer 200 may be folded differently (e.g., diagonally) than the inner layer 100, 600. This configuration results in the expansion of the filler layer 200 when the liner layer 100, 600 expands in the X or Y directions.

[0089] As discussed above, the terms "substrate layer" and "carrier layer" as used herein refer to a layer to which one or more other layers are adhered or bonded and which has the ability to move and expand at least one of those other layers. It should be understood that although the first layer 100 (or substrate or carrier layer 100) is shown herein as including one or more pleats that allow the first layer to be selectively expanded or unfolded, in other embodiments the first layer is gathered, wrinkled, or includes tabs and nodes that allow the paper to expand in one or more directions without pleating.

[0090] It is further understood that packaging material 10 may be tensioned in a combination of different directions simultaneously or sequentially, rather than being tensioned solely in a first direction "A" (as shown in FIG. 1). To allow packaging material 10 to expand in a combination of different directions, at least a first layer is provided with a combination of pleats that are oriented and arranged to allow expansion of at least the first layer in these various directions.

[0091] The second layer 200 is a product that stretches when stretched. In one aspect, the second layer 200 stretches in the longitudinal direction. In one embodiment, the second layer 200 has a cut pattern formed therein (i.e., a cut pattern layer). The cut pattern layer 200 stretches when stretched (i.e., expanded), but may simultaneously contract in width as it stretches. The cut pattern layer 200 is adhered to the substrate layer 100. The dimensions of the cut pattern layer are longer, equal to, or smaller than the dimensions of the substrate layer 100.

[0092] The first layer 100 is configured to be stretched or expanded in at least a first direction (e.g., in two planes, such as X, Y, or X and Y), thereby effectively expanding the second layer 200, or cut pattern layer, of the packaging material 10 in at least one plane (e.g., the Z direction). The cut pattern layer 200 has the advantage of providing structural strength to the packaging material 10 as the packaging material 10 changes from an unexpanded state to an expanded state. The cut pattern layer 200 may contract in a second direction (X or Y), which may include a direction perpendicular to the first direction in which the substrate layer 100 is stretched or expanded. To compensate for such contraction, the cut pattern layer 200 may include excess material that expands when the cut pattern layer 200 is stretched into the expanded configuration. In other embodiments (not shown herein), the second layer 200 may be configured or manufactured to allow the second layer 200 to expand in the Z direction without undergoing contraction in the X and / or Y directions.

[0093] In some embodiments, packaging material 10 comprises two layers adhered together.

[0094] Packaging material 10 can be configured to allow flexibility for package size and to facilitate transportation of packaging material 10 as a rolled mass when in an unexpanded state. Preferably, packaging material 10 is formed from renewable materials. In one embodiment, each of one or more layers of packaging material 10 is made entirely from renewable materials. One suitable material for use as each of one or more layers is paper.

[0095] Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, examples of which are provided. The actions performed as part of a method may be ordered in any suitable manner. Thus, while shown as sequential actions in the exemplary embodiments, embodiments may be constructed in which actions are performed in an order different from that illustrated, which may include performing some actions simultaneously.

[0096] While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those skilled in the art will readily envision various other means and / or structures for performing the functions described herein and / or obtaining one or more of the results and / or advantages described herein, and each of such variations and / or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are intended to be typical, and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend on the specific application or applications in which the teachings of the present invention are employed. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain, using no more than routine experimentation, numerous equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. Accordingly, the above-described embodiments are presented by way of example only, and it will be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents, the inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. Additionally, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods is within the inventive scope of the present disclosure, provided that such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods are not mutually inconsistent.

[0097] All definitions defined and used herein should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0098] The articles "a" and "an," as used herein in the specification and claims, should be understood to mean "at least one," unless expressly stated otherwise. The phrase "and / or," as used herein (if any) in the specification and claims, should be understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so connected, i.e., elements that are present conjunctively in some instances and disjunctively in other instances. Multiple elements listed with "and / or" should be construed in the same manner, i.e., "one or more" of the elements so connected. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified in the "and / or" phrase, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising," a reference to "A and / or B" may refer in one embodiment to only A (optionally including elements other than B), in another embodiment to only B (optionally including elements other than A), and in another embodiment to both A and B (optionally including additional elements), etc. As used herein in the specification and claims, "or" should be understood to have the same meaning as "and / or" as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or "and / or" shall be interpreted as inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one of a plurality of elements or a list of elements, but also including a plurality, and optionally including additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicating otherwise, such as "only one of" or "exactly one of," or, when used in the claims, "consisting of," shall refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a plurality of elements or a list of elements. In general, the term "or" as used herein shall be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e., "either / or," "one of," "only one of," or "exactly one of,") only when accompanied by exclusive terms, such as "either," "one of," "only one of," or "exactly one of."As used in the claims, "consisting essentially of" shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

[0099] As used herein in the specification and claims, the phrase "at least one" with respect to one or more elements should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more elements in the list of elements, and does not necessarily mean the inclusion of at least one of each and every element specifically listed in the list of elements or the exclusion of any combination of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows for the optional presence of elements other than those specifically identified in the list of elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related or unrelated to those specifically identified elements. Thus, as a non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently, "at least one of A or B," or, equivalently, "at least one of A and / or B") can refer in one embodiment to at least one A, optionally including more than one, and no B (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment to at least one B, optionally including more than one, and no A (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment to at least one A, optionally including more than one, and at least one B (optionally including other elements), optionally including more than one.

[0100] When a feature or element is referred to herein as being "on" another feature or element, it may be directly on the other feature or element, or intervening features and / or elements may be present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly on" another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Also, when a feature or element is referred to as being "connected," "attached," or "coupled" to another feature or element, it is understood that it may be directly connected, attached, or coupled to the other feature or element, or there may be intervening features or elements present. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly connected," "directly attached," or "directly coupled" to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements present. Even when described or illustrated with respect to one embodiment, the feature or element so described or illustrated is applicable to other embodiments. It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that references to structures or features being positioned "adjacent" to other features may have an overlapping or underlying position on the adjacent feature.

[0101] Spatially relative terms, such as "below," "lower," "bottom," "upper," "above," "rear," "forward," and the like, may be used herein to facilitate description of the relationship of one element or feature to another element(s) or feature(s) as shown in the figures. It is understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is inverted, an element described as being "below" or "below" the other element or feature would then be oriented "above" the other element or feature. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both an up and down orientation. The device may be oriented otherwise (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptive terms used herein will be interpreted accordingly. Similarly, terms such as "upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," "side-to-side," "lateral," "longitudinal," and the like are used herein for descriptive purposes only, unless otherwise indicated.

[0102] The terms "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various features / elements, but these features / elements are not limited by these terms unless the context indicates otherwise. These terms may be used to distinguish one feature / element from another. Thus, a first feature / element described herein may be referred to as a second feature / element, and similarly, a second feature / element described herein may be referred to as a first feature / element, without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

[0103] An embodiment is an implementation or example of the present disclosure. References herein to "an embodiment," "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "one particular embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," or "other embodiments" or the like mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least some, but not necessarily all, embodiments of the invention. The various appearances of "an embodiment," "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "one particular embodiment," "exemplary embodiment," or "other embodiments," etc., do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment.

[0104] When this specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic "may," "may," or "could" be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic need not necessarily be included. When an element is referred to in this specification or claims with "a" or "an," this does not mean that there is only one of the element. When this specification or claims refers to an "additional" element, this does not exclude the presence of multiple additional elements.

[0105] When used in this specification or claims, including when used as examples, unless otherwise specified, all numerical values ​​may be read as being "about" or "approximately" unless expressly indicated. When describing a size and / or location, the term "about" or "approximately" may be used to indicate that the described value and / or location is within a range of reasonably expected values ​​and / or locations. For example, a numerical value may have a value of + / -0.1% of the stated value (or value range), + / -1% of the stated value (or value range), + / -2% of the stated value (or value range), + / -5% of the stated value (or value range), + / -10% of the stated value (or value range), etc. Any numerical range described herein is intended to include all subranges subsumed therein.

[0106] Also, methods of carrying out the present disclosure may occur in different orders than those described herein. Thus, unless expressly stated, the order of the methods should not be read as a limitation. It is recognized that similar results may be achieved by performing some of the method steps in a different order.

[0107] In the claims, as well as in the above specification, all transitional expressions, such as "comprises," "includes," "carries," "has," "includes," "involves," "holds," "consisting of," etc., are to be understood as open-ended, i.e., inclusive of but not limited to. Only the transitional expressions "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of" are intended to be closed or semi-closed, respectively.

[0108] In the foregoing description, specific terms have been employed for brevity, clarity, and understanding. Such terms are used for purposes of description and are intended to be broadly interpreted, so that no unnecessary limitations are to be implied beyond the requirements of the prior art.

[0109] Moreover, the description and illustration of the various embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the exact details shown or described. The claims of this application as originally filed are set forth below. [1] a first layer; a second layer operably engaged with the first layer; and Equipped with the first layer being selectively expandable in at least a first direction; the second layer is expandable in at least the first direction in response to the expansion of the first layer; The packaging material, wherein the second layer is further extensible in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. [2] The packaging material according to [1], wherein the first layer is made of a renewable material. [3] The packaging material according to [1], wherein the second layer is made of a renewable material. [4] the first layer is movable between a contracted state and an expanded state; the first layer includes one or more pleats when in the contracted state; The packaging material according to [1], wherein when the first layer moves in the first direction to reach the expanded state, the one or more pleats disappear from the first layer. [5] the second layer is movable between a contracted state and an expanded state; the second layer includes one or more pleats when in the contracted state; The packaging material according to [1], wherein when the second layer moves in the first direction to reach the expanded state, the one or more pleats disappear from the second layer. [6] The packaging material according to [1], wherein the second layer includes a plurality of slits extending between the upper and lower surfaces of the second layer. [7] The packaging material according to [6], wherein the plurality of slits in the second layer are arranged in a pattern. [8] [7] The packaging material according to [7], wherein the pattern of the plurality of slits is uniform across the entire length and width of the second layer. [9] [6] The packaging material according to [6], wherein when the second layer is expanded in the first direction, the plurality of slits open and form air pockets.

[10] [9] The packaging material according to [9], wherein when the second layer is expanded in the second direction, the thickness of the second layer increases, the thickness being measured between the top and bottom surfaces of the second layer.

[11] The packaging material according to [1], wherein the first layer and the second layer expand in the X plane or the Y plane when expanded in the first direction, and the second layer expands in the Z direction when expanded in the second direction.

[12] The packaging material described in [1], wherein the first layer and the second layer are joined to each other so as to allow the first layer and the second layer to expand in the first direction and to allow the second layer to expand in the second direction.

[13] The packaging material described in [1], further comprising a third layer expandable in the first direction, the second layer being sandwiched between the first layer and the third layer.

[14] A packaging enclosure for an article, said packaging enclosure comprising: a length of packaging material configured to form a front and a rear of the packaging housing; an interior cavity bounded and defined by said front and rear portions, said interior cavity adapted to receive said item; The packaging material comprises: a first layer; a second layer operably engaged with the first layer; and Equipped with the first layer is expanded in a first direction; the second layer expands in the first direction in response to the expansion of the first layer; the second layer extends in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction; The front and rear side edges of the length of packaging material are joined together to prevent access to the interior cavity.

[15] The packaging material according to

[14] , further comprising a third layer extending in the first direction, the second layer being sandwiched between the first layer and the third layer, the third layer comprising a liner that defines the internal cavity.

[16] The packaging casing described in

[14] , wherein the second layer includes a plurality of slits formed therein, and when the second layer is expanded in the second direction, the plurality of slits open to form air pockets in the second layer.

[17] The packaging housing according to

[16] , wherein the second layer increases in thickness when expanded in the second direction.

[18]

[14] The packaging enclosure described in

[14] , wherein one or both of the first layer and the second layer include one or more pleats that unfold when one or both of the first layer and the second layer are expanded.

[19] receiving a sheet of packaging material having at least an expandable cut pattern layer; applying a force to the sheet-like packaging material; expanding the cut pattern layer in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of the force; A method for providing

[20] selecting a length of the packaging material based on the size of the item to be shipped; forming a packaging enclosure with the length of packaging material after the cut pattern layer is expanded; The method according to

[19] , further comprising:

Claims

1. A first layer including a first end and a second end spaced apart in a Y direction, and a first side portion and a second side portion spaced apart in an X direction perpendicular to the Y direction; a second layer operably engaged with the first layer and having a plurality of slits or a plurality of openings formed therein; Equipped with the first layer is selectively expandable in the Y direction, the first layer and the second layer have a first layer width and a second layer width in the X direction, respectively, and are configured such that the first layer widths are maintained equal when the first layer is expanded in the Y direction; the second layer is expandable in at least the Y direction in response to the expansion of the first layer; The second layer is further expandable in a Z direction perpendicular to the Y direction and the X direction, and the second layer is configured to expand in the Z direction when expanded in the Y direction, and the width of the second layer is configured to contract when the first layer expands in the Y direction.

2. The packaging material of claim 1 , wherein the first layer is a renewable material.

3. The packaging material of claim 1 , wherein the second layer is a renewable material.

4. the first layer is movable between a contracted state and an expanded state; the first layer includes one or more pleats when in the contracted state; The packaging material of claim 1 , wherein the one or more pleats disappear from the first layer when the first layer is moved in the Y direction to the expanded state.

5. the second layer is movable between a contracted state and an expanded state; the second layer includes one or more pleats when in the contracted state; The packaging material of claim 1 , wherein the one or more pleats disappear from the second layer when the second layer moves in the Y direction to the expanded state.

6. The packaging material of claim 1 , wherein the second layer includes a plurality of slits in the second layer extending between the top and bottom surfaces of the second layer.

7. The packaging material of claim 6 , wherein the plurality of slits in the second layer are arranged to form a pattern.

8. 8. The packaging material of claim 7, wherein the pattern of the plurality of slits is uniform across the entire length and width of the second layer.

9. The packaging material of claim 6 , wherein when the second layer is expanded in the Y direction, the plurality of slits open to form air pockets.

10. 10. The packaging material of claim 9, wherein as the second layer is expanded in the Z direction, the thickness of the second layer increases, the thickness being measured between the top and bottom surfaces of the second layer.

11. 2. The packaging material of claim 1, wherein the first layer and the second layer are joined to one another such that the first layer and the second layer are capable of expanding in the Y direction and the second layer is capable of expanding in the Z direction.

12. The packaging material of claim 1 , further comprising a third layer expandable in the Y direction, the second layer being sandwiched between the first layer and the third layer.

13. A packaging enclosure for an article, said packaging enclosure comprising: a length of packaging material configured to form a front and a rear of the packaging housing; an interior cavity bounded and defined by said front and rear portions, said interior cavity adapted to receive said item; The packaging material comprises: a first layer including a first end and a second end spaced apart in a Y direction and a first side and a second side spaced apart in an X direction perpendicular to the Y direction; a second layer operably engaged with the first layer and having a plurality of slits or a plurality of openings formed therein; Equipped with the first layer is configured to be selectively expandable in the Y direction, the first layer and the second layer have a first layer width and a second layer width in the X direction, respectively, and are configured such that the first layer width is maintained equal when the first layer is expanded in the Y direction; the second layer expands in the Y direction in response to the expansion of the first layer; the second layer is expandable in a Z direction perpendicular to the Y direction and the X direction, and the second layer is configured to expand in the Z direction when expanded in the Y direction, and the second layer width is configured to contract when the first layer is expanded in the Y direction; The front and rear side edges of the length of packaging material are joined together to prevent access to the interior cavity.

14. 14. The packaging enclosure of claim 13, wherein the packaging material includes a third layer extending in the X-direction, the second layer being sandwiched between the first layer and the third layer, the third layer comprising a liner that bounds and defines the interior cavity.

15. 14. The packaging enclosure of claim 13, wherein the second layer includes a plurality of slits formed therein, and when the second layer is expanded in the Z direction, the plurality of slits open to form air pockets in the second layer.

16. 16. The packaging enclosure of claim 15, wherein the second layer increases in thickness when expanded in the Z direction.

17. A packaging enclosure as described in claim 13, wherein the first layer or both the first layer and the second layer include one or more pleats.

18. receiving a sheet-like packaging material having at least an expandable cut pattern layer, the packaging material comprising a first layer and a second layer, the first layer including a first end and a second end spaced apart in a Y direction and a first side and a second side spaced apart in an X direction perpendicular to the Y direction, the second layer having a plurality of slits or a plurality of openings that provide corresponding cut pattern layers; applying a force in the Y direction to the sheet-like packaging material, wherein the first layer and the second layer have a first layer width and a second layer width in the X direction, respectively; When the force is applied in the Y direction, the first layer width is maintained at the same level while the second layer width is reduced, and the cut pattern layer expands in a Z direction substantially perpendicular to the Y direction and the X direction. A method for providing

19. selecting a length of the packaging material based on the size of the item to be shipped; forming a packaging enclosure with the length of packaging material after the cut pattern layer is expanded; 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

20. A plurality of air pockets are formed in the second layer when the second layer is expanded in the Z direction.

20. The method of claim 18.

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