Tamper-proof package with adhesive assist zip closure and method for using the same

Abstract

A one-use, tamper-evident and tamper-proof package with an adhesive, seal-assist zip closure. The zip closure with an adhesive seal assist is suitable for transporting valuable and / or important items in a secure manner. The subject zip closure is a pressure joined, interlocking assembly. The interlocking assembly also comprises an adhesive, such as a microencapsulated adhesive or other specialty adhesive, that is activated when the interlocking zip assembly is secured. The adhesive provides a seal assist that prevents the interlocking assembly from being opened without tampering with or otherwise opening the packaging in a non-reusable manner.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to one-use, tamper-evident and / or tamper-proof packaging and, more particularly, to packaging with an adhesive seal-assist zip locking closure. The subject apparatus provides a zip closure with an adhesive seal assist suitable for transporting valuable and / or important items in a secure manner. In one embodiment, the zip closure is a pressure joined, interlocking assembly. An adhesive, such as a microencapsulated adhesive or other specialty adhesive, is activated when the interlocking zip assembly is secured. The adhesive provides a seal assist that ensures the interlocking assembly is closed in a non-reusable manner.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Tamper evident, high security packaging is highly important for courier services, interbank transfers, or other services and uses where the security and integrity of the package contents is valued. However, current packaging offerings do not provide adequate security and...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0012]The subject package closure is a pressure zip type closure that comprises a female channel member and a corresponding male member. In one embodiment, a microencapsulated adhesive is placed in the female channel during manufacturing. In use, a user inserts the male member into the female channel. Opposing pressure to join the male member and female channel is placed along the length of the zipper closure. The pressure bursts or ruptures the microencapsulated adhesive system, which then activates an adhesive that cures to seal the male member to the female channel. In this manner, the package associated with the disclosed package closure cannot be reopened via the zip closure. As such, tampering with the package contents is prevented without disassembling or permanently damaging the package.

Problems solved by technology

However, current packaging offerings do not provide adequate security and tamper-evident solutions.

However, it is also possible to tamper with the adhesive to open and reseal the package.

Basically, while this type of packaging is commonly used, it does not provide proper security for a user's contents.

It is not tamper proof and does not provide evidence of tampering.

In addition, releasable liners, layers, or strips as commonly used to cover the adhesive are inconvenient and produce waste.

The release liners also add expense and difficulty in manufacturing, particularly when used with plastic bags.

These solutions have not been suitable for commercial use.

Overly, strong adhesives might adhere to a user or other items in a harmful manner or otherwise render the package inoperable.

This causes the male and female portions to lock where pressure has been applied.

This type packaging is not suitable for use with mailing, shipping, or secure courier operations.

The disclosed packaging is non-resealable and the zipper closure cannot be reopened once sealed.

The solvent is released upon rupture of the capsules, which then makes the adhesive tacky.

In any event, reopening the subject zip closure destroys the adhesive seal assist so that the zip closure cannot be resealed.

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