RECIPIENTE

Abstract

A container 10 for a product, the container formed of a laminate material 12 folded as a container body having a first end 16, a second end 18, and at least one side wall 20 connecting the first and second ends together, in which the first end, the second end and the at least one side wall define a chamber for holding the product, in which an aperture 14 is provided through the laminate material of the at least one side wall, a middle of the aperture being disposed on a first central plane of the container and also on a second central plane of the container, the second central plane being orthogonal to the first central plane, and the container body including a seal 30, 36 which is: a) on the at least one side wall and offset from the aperture, or b) disposed on the first end or the second end.

Description

1 / 37 CONTAINER

[0001] The present invention relates to a container made of folded laminated material for containing a product, such as food or beverage, particularly, but not exclusively, a bottle made of folded laminated material for containing the product. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Folded laminated packaging, such as Tetra Pak (RTM) cartons, offers many advantages. For example, the laminate can be constructed to form aseptic containers that allow food to stay fresh longer. The laminate is relatively lightweight, which minimizes transportation costs. Indications can be printed onto the laminated material using various printing processes.

[0003] A conventional Tetra Pak (RTM) carton is formed from a single sheet of laminated material, with two opposite edges connected. The adjacent edges of the laminated container are then sealed at the top and bottom of the container. This leaves a seal at the top of the container. The excess material at the top is normally folded towards the sides adjacent to the top face, while the excess material at the bottom is folded towards the bottom of the container. In some cases, a flat bottom seal may be used.

[0004] There is usually a small opening on the top face, offset from the top seal. This small opening is ideal for carefully pouring liquids such as milk and juices stored in the container.

[0005] However, this type of container is not suitable for storing solids, viscous liquids, or powders. This is because they cannot be easily removed from the box through the opening, which is why they are still sold in glass jars or plastic containers that can be opened at the top. Glass jars and plastic containers are typically shipped empty from the manufacturer for later filling, with a large volume per container, resulting in higher transport costs and a significant carbon footprint, which is not environmentally friendly. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 5 / 43 2 / 37 Sustainable. Glass jars, in particular, are relatively expensive to manufacture and heavy, which exacerbates transportation and environmental costs.

[0006] In the case of Tetra Pak (RTM), the carton material has six individual layers. The first layer is a polyethylene layer for sealing against water. The second layer is a second layer of polyethylene, which is used as an adhesive layer to bond the first layer to a third layer of aluminum foil to keep the contents fresh. The fourth layer is a third layer of polyethylene, used as an adhesive layer to bond the third layer to a fifth layer of cardboard, which may be used to display information about the product contents and / or the brand, for example. The sixth layer is a fourth layer of polyethylene that seals the material against water. Other manufacturers may supply different carton or laminate materials.

[0007] Although the laminated material structure provided by various manufacturers is generally effective in extending the shelf life of food in a matching laminated container, it tends to require specialized disposal as the separate layers of the laminated material are difficult to separate during the recycling process. Furthermore, some local recycling collection services in the UK do not accept various types of laminated material as part of paper recycling, requiring consumers to take containers made of this material to a recycling centre that accepts laminated containers for recycling. As there is a lack of convenient means to recycle laminated material through household recycling collection (i.e., without needing to leave home), some people may therefore dispose of laminated material as ordinary waste.Globally, in 2022, approximately 1.2 million tons of cardboard boxes were recycled, so even a relatively small fraction of boxes that are discarded instead of recycled constitutes a very large amount of material.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to substantially reduce or eliminate the aforementioned problems. DECLARATION OF INVENTION Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 6 / 43 3 / 37

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a container (or laminated bottle) is provided for a product, the container being formed from a laminated material folded as the body of the container, having: a first end wall provided by the laminated material, a second end wall provided by the laminated material, and at least one side wall provided by the laminated material connecting the first and second end walls, wherein the first end wall, the second end wall, and at least one side wall define a chamber to contain the product, an opening is provided substantially centrally through the laminated material of at least one side wall, the open side wall having an outer perimeter that defines an area of ​​the side wall, the opening covering an area that is at least 40% of the area of ​​the side wall, the opening spanning at least about 71% of a first distance through the open side wall in an orthogonal direction from the first fold in the first end wall to the second fold in the second end wall,and the opening spanning at least about 71% of a second distance through the open side wall, the second distance being orthogonal to the first distance, the opening having an opening perimeter that is closer to the outer perimeter of the open side wall than to a center of the opening at each of a first point on the perimeter of the opening, a second point on the perimeter of the opening, a third point on the perimeter of the opening, and a fourth point on the perimeter of the opening, the first and second points opposite each other across the opening, the third and fourth points opposite each other across the opening, and the first, second, third, and fourth points being equidistantly spaced around the perimeter of the opening, and the body of the container including at least one seal for sealing the folded laminated material in the shape of the folded container body, the at least one seal being: a) disposed on the first end wall or on the second end wall, Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, p. 7 / 43 4 / 37 end (being, therefore, on a different wall of the container than the opening), or b) on at least one side wall and offset from the opening.

[0010] Optional features are provided in dependent claims.

[0011] A container according to the invention offers a lightweight and low-logistical-cost alternative to glass and plastic bottles, jars, and containers. The container can advantageously be formed from a single piece of laminated material bent to form the various walls of the container (including the base of the container opposite the perforated side wall). It has the added advantage of not shattering on impact, unlike glass and some plastic containers.

[0012] The opening in the present invention is relatively wide to allow easier and / or faster passage of the product through the opening.

[0013] The existence of several equally spaced points on the perimeter of the opening, each closer to the perimeter of the side wall than to the center of the opening, provides a wide opening, both in length and width, relative to the length and width of the side wall. In preferred embodiments, all points on the perimeter of the opening (whether for a circular opening or another opening shape) may be arranged closer to the outer perimeter of the perforated side wall than to the center of the opening. For example, a central circular opening covering at least 40% of the area of ​​the perforated side wall would have its entire opening perimeter closer to the perimeter of the side wall than to the center of the opening.

[0014] An intermediate region (or center) of the opening may be disposed in the center of the side wall. The arrangement in which the intermediate region (or center) of the opening is disposed in the center of the side wall, with the seal offset or disposed on an adjacent end wall, may provide more space to accommodate a large or wide opening. This can maximize the size of the opening relative to the size of the container. This has particular application in the pre-molded packaging industry for bottles and jars, and the invention enables an important shift towards more useful and sustainable packaging. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, p. 8 / 43 5 / 37

[0015] In another aspect of the invention, at least one seal may be disposed on at least one side wall and offset from the opening, instead of being on a wall different from the opening.

[0016] The container may have a first and a second central plane that are orthogonal to each other. A central point of the opening may be placed on the side wall in a position where the first and second central planes intersect.

[0017] In other words, the container may have two orthogonal planes, where one plane is parallel to the end walls and the other plane is orthogonal to the end walls, and the middle of the opening may be located approximately where the planes intersect. The central planes may be longitudinal planes that pass through the centers of the opposite side walls.

[0018] In preferred embodiments, the opening is located substantially centrally in the perforated sidewall. However, it should be noted that the opening may be offset from the center of the perforated sidewall in other embodiments. For example, the opening may be located toward the middle of one of the edges of the perforated sidewall, or toward a corner of the perforated sidewall, or anywhere on the perforated sidewall that accommodates the entire opening within the perimeter of the perforated sidewall.

[0019] The term “folded” may be interpreted as meaning that the container is formed from a single piece of laminated material, which has one or more folds. The piece of laminated material may be supplied as a distinct piece or may be cut or isolated from a continuous piece of laminated material. The body of the container may comprise any suitable number of folds. A given fold may be disposed between two adjacent walls of the container body, such that these walls meet at a distinct angle.

[0020] The container may be considered a cardboard box or a laminated bottle, particularly a cardboard box or a laminated bottle that can be resealed.

[0021] The container can be used for one or more retort applications, aseptic, at room temperature or refrigerated. That is, for storage of Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 9 / 43 6 / 37 food in various scenarios. It is important to emphasize that the container is by no means limited to applications exclusively for food, and can be used for a variety of other purposes, as discussed further below.

[0022] The first end wall can be considered opposite the second end wall.

[0023] The opening has a diameter that extends substantially across most of the width of the host's side wall.

[0024] There may be no seal in the laminated material supplied over or across the perforated side wall. That is, there may be no joint between separate parts of the laminated material on the perforated side wall.

[0025] A flat wall may be provided at the base of the chamber. The flat wall may be opposite the opening or opposite the side wall with an opening. In other words, the base of the container may be substantially flat (either one or both of the inner or chamber-facing surfaces of the base and one outer surface of the base may be flat).

[0026] The flat wall and the opening may be arranged in respective planes that are substantially parallel to each other.

[0027] The inner surface of the flat base may be substantially flat throughout its area. The inner surface of the flat base may be free of protrusions or recesses. The flat wall may have no recesses or cavities.

[0028] This can facilitate simpler container manufacturing, as the laminated material may require fewer modifications in the folding / forming process of the container body using the laminate.

[0029] The flat wall may include a fence. This can help mitigate the risk of product leakage out of the chamber through the laminated material, for example, through the base.

[0030] The opening may be wide enough to accept a utensil, such as a spoon, that is narrower than the opening, in order to remove the product or products from the chamber by manually inserting and removing the utensil through the opening. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, p. 10 / 43 7 / 37

[0031] The opening may span up to about 90% or 95% of the distance through the open side wall in the orthogonal direction from the first end wall to the second end wall.

[0032] The opening can be considered a wide-necked opening. The opening may be able to receive or allow the entry of a utensil, such as a spoon, to remove the product(s). That is, the opening may be a wide-necked opening to accept a utensil, such as a spoon, that is narrower than the opening, to remove the product(s) from the chamber by manually inserting and removing the utensil(s) through the opening.

[0033] A wide neck opening may include a neck or portion of a neck to receive a closure. The neck may be glued or attached to the laminated material. The neck may extend away from the camera by a neck height. The neck height may be up to about 3 cm or 4 cm high, for example. The neck height may be about 1 cm or 2 cm high.

[0034] The neck may have a width that extends for at least about 71% of the first distance through the open side wall in the orthogonal direction from the first fold in the first end wall to the second fold in the second end wall. That is, the neck may be approximately the same width as the opening. The width of the neck may be at least three or at least four times greater than the height of the neck.

[0035] The bottleneck can be defined as a disc-shaped or cylindrical opening that has a diameter greater than its height.

[0036] The neck may include at least one flange or edge. At least one flange may be attached to the laminated material at the corners of one side of the side wall facing the chamber.

[0037] This maximizes the area of ​​the open side wall that can be occupied by the opening, while also allowing the neck to be properly secured to the laminated material at various corners of the side wall.

[0038] The seal between at least one flange and the side wall may be a circumferential seal around the opening. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 11 / 43 8 / 37

[0039] The neck can be glued to an inner or outer part of the container. If glued to an inner part, this must be done before forming the container by folding the laminate.

[0040] The opening may be at least 3 cm wide, or at least 4 cm, or at least 5 cm wide. In some embodiments, other diameter openings of any integer or half-integer value may be provided between 3 cm and 15 cm, for example, 8.5 cm wide.

[0041] The opening may be at least 3 cm long and wide (or in diameter), for example. In other examples, the opening may be about 4 cm or 5 cm long and wide (or in diameter). In other examples, the opening may be about 6 cm, 8 cm, or 10 cm long and wide (or in diameter).

[0042] The side wall with an opening may have an outer perimeter that defines a side wall area (or enclosed area). That is, folds at the boundaries of the side wall may define the side wall area.

[0043] The opening covers an area that corresponds to at least 40% (or more) of the area of ​​the side wall. For a circular opening in a square or rectangular side wall, the diameter of the opening, as a proportion of the length and / or width of the perforated side wall, is therefore about 71% or more.

[0044] In some embodiments, the opening area may be at least 45% or 50% (or more) of the side wall area. In another example, the opening area may be at least 55% or 60% (or more) of the side wall area. The opening area may be up to about 75% of the side wall area. That is, the area delimited by the perimeter of the side wall.

[0045] For a circular opening covering at least 50% of a square or rectangular side wall area, the diameter of the opening as a proportion of the length and / or width of the open side wall would be about 80% or more.

[0046] For a circular opening covering at least 60% of a square or rectangular side wall area, the diameter of the opening as a proportion of the length and / or width of the open side wall would be approximately 87% or more. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 12 / 43 9 / 37

[0047] It is important to emphasize that the % values ​​provided above in relation to the opening may vary according to the shape of the opening (which may be circular or another shape) and the shape of the side wall area (which may be rectangular or another shape), but the general principle is that the opening occupies a large proportion of the open side wall, both in length and width.

[0048] The opening may cover an area of ​​at least 40%, 50% or 60% of the area defined by the perimeter of the perforated side wall, and must have a diameter of at least: 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm, 7 cm, 8 cm, 9 cm or 10 cm. The opening may be up to approximately 15 cm, 20 cm or 25 cm in diameter.

[0049] The opening should preferably be as large as possible, provided it fits within the area of ​​the side wall, but without compromising the overall structure of the side wall.

[0050] In other words, the opening or neck may approximate an inscribed opening (e.g., an inscribed circle) in the perforated sidewall, except that the perimeter of the opening is slightly recessed relative to the perimeter of the sidewall to the extent necessary to maintain the structural integrity of the container body. For example, it may be recessed by a few millimeters or even about 1 cm or 2 cm (considering orthogonality to the edge of the sidewall perimeter). If a neck or receiving portion of the lid is attached to the container, the fitting may accommodate a proper connection of the neck or receiving portion of the lid to the laminated material.

[0051] The laminated container with a wide opening can be used as a replacement for glass jars and wide-necked glass bottles, for example. This allows the benefits of a laminated container to be leveraged for additional products, reducing logistics, transportation, and packaging storage costs.

[0052] A midpoint between the center of a first edge of the open side wall and the center of an opposite edge of the open side wall may be within the opening.

[0053] The side of the perforated side wall facing the chamber may have a smaller area than the area of ​​the opening. Most of the area of ​​the side of the perforated side wall facing the chamber may be located at or adjacent to the corners of the perforated side wall. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 13 / 43 10 / 37

[0054] The area of ​​the perforated side wall facing the chamber can be up to about 60% of the total area defined by the outer perimeter of the perforated side wall. The area of ​​the perforated side wall facing the chamber can be from about 22% to 50% of the total area enclosed by the outer perimeter of the perforated side wall. For example, about 25%, 30%, 35%, 40% or 45% of the total area may be formed by a side wall area instead of an opening area.

[0055] The first and second opposite points on the perimeter of the opening may be closer to the perimeter of the open side wall than to each other. The third and fourth opposite points on the perimeter of the opening may be closer to the perimeter of the open side wall than to each other. The first, second, third, and fourth points may be equidistant around the perimeter of the opening.

[0056] For a circular opening, for example, there may be two points offset around the perimeter of the opening by 90 degrees, and one or both points may be closer to the perimeter of the side wall than to the center of the opening.

[0057] A median distance (e.g., average distance) between the perimeter of the open side wall and the perimeter of the opening may be less than a median distance (e.g., average distance) between the perimeter of the opening and the center of the opening.

[0058] A first distance between a center of the open side wall and the center of the opening may be less than a second distance between the center of the opening and a point on the perimeter of the open side wall, when the point, the center of the opening, and the center of the open side wall are collinear.

[0059] The opening can be a circular opening.

[0060] The opening may be a single opening in the perforated side wall. That is, it may be the only opening through which the product can be removed from the container.

[0061] Laminated material can provide a barrier against odors, oxygen, UV light and moisture.

[0062] Laminated material may comprise any combination of: one or more layers of polymer or plastic, such as polyethylene; one or more layers of metal, such as aluminum layers; one or more layers of cardboard. Laminated material Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 14 / 43 11 / 37 could be, for example, a conventional Tetra Pak laminated material (RTM). The laminated material could, instead, be the material of the fifth aspect of the present invention.

[0063] At least one seal may be formed or provided in which different parts or edges of the laminated material are connected together (e.g., thermally sealed or glued with adhesive) to form the body of the container. At least one seal may include overlapping portions of the laminated material.

[0064] A first seal may be provided on or over the first end wall to seal the laminate folded at the first end wall. A second seal may be provided on or over the second end wall to seal the laminate folded at the second end wall.

[0065] The seal(s) may be placed on the faces of the container that are adjacent and / or on opposite sides of the open face.

[0066] One or more folded flaps (or flaps) may be installed or sealed on the first end wall. However, a flat seal may be used.

[0067] One or more folded flaps (or flaps) may be installed or sealed on the second end wall. However, a flat seal may be used.

[0068] Each tab may be substantially triangular in shape. However, it is possible that a tab with a different shape may be provided.

[0069] At least one portion of folded flap may be provided or sealed on both the walls of the first and second ends.

[0070] The folded flap portions may be formed from laminated material. The laminated material that forms the folded flap portions may be considered as excess laminated material not used to form the walls that define the chamber of the container body. The folded flap portions may be formed by folding a substantially rectangular piece of laminated material into the container body.

[0071] At least one edge fence may be formed substantially along the overlapping edges of the laminated material. The edge fence may extend along a direction perpendicular to the first and second fences. The edge fence may be arranged on at least one side wall. The edge fence may Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, p. 15 / 43 12 / 37 should be positioned substantially centrally on the side wall. The edge fence may be positioned offset from the center of the side wall.

[0072] A first seal may be provided on the first end wall and a second seal may be provided on the end wall of the seal. The seals may be arranged opposite each other around the perforated side wall. When one or more additional side walls are provided, the additional side wall(s) may not have seals. That is, the additional side wall(s) may be an uninterrupted wall or a wall that is not interrupted by a seal formed by gluing or fastening two different parts of the laminate, although the wall itself presents a barrier that resists or prevents leakage of the product from the container.

[0073] At least four side walls may be provided. The container may be substantially cubic or prismatic.

[0074] The container may be constructed using laminated material in the form of a net, that is, a shape that folds over the body of the desired container. The net may be a single net, foldable to cover all the side and end walls of the container. The net may have two or more pairs of edges, each with a first edge substantially parallel to a second opposite edge. For example, the container may be constructed with a substantially square or rectangular net.

[0075] The perforated side wall can be placed between the first end wall and the second end wall, connecting them. That is, the first and second end walls can be placed on opposite sides of the perforated side wall. The perforated side wall can be placed between these end walls and connect them as part of the network.

[0076] The open side wall can be connected to the first end wall by a bend and / or can be connected to the second end wall by a bend.

[0077] The body of the container may be a square-based container, substantially cubic, or a square prism container. The square base of the container may oppose the perforated side wall. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, p. 16 / 43 13 / 37

[0078] The open side wall can have a square or rectangular perimeter.

[0079] The body of the container may have a height / width ratio relative to the open side wall, with the height / width ratio being substantially in the range of 2:1 to 1:2.

[0080] The container may be at least half its height relative to its width. The container may be up to twice its height relative to its width. The height of the container may be measured along an axis parallel to the central axis of the opening. The width of the container may be measured along an axis orthogonal to the central axis of the opening.

[0081] This can result in a relatively short / stumpy container. In other words, the container may have a low center of mass and be at relatively less risk of accidentally tipping over if dropped.

[0082] The container may have a minimum chamber volume of approximately 25 ml. The container may have a maximum chamber volume of approximately 5000 ml.

[0083] The unit ml can instead be cm3. The chamber volume can have an integer value in the range of 25 ml to 5000 ml, such as 50 ml, 75 ml, 100 ml, 125 ml, 150 ml, 200 ml, 250 ml, 300 ml, 400 ml, 500 ml, 750 ml, 1000 ml, 1500 ml, 2000 ml, 2500 ml, 3000 ml, 3500 ml, 4000 ml or 4500 ml, for example. The range of chamber volumes can be selected to have lower and upper limits, each selected independently of any of the values ​​mentioned here.

[0084] The container may be substantially empty to receive the product. The container may receive a volume of product substantially equal to, or close to, the volume of the container chamber (optionally with a quantity of gas, such as nitrogen, filling the remaining volume).

[0085] The container may comprise a plurality of side walls of laminated material. That is, one or more additional side walls may be provided in addition to the side wall with an opening. Each of the side walls of the plurality may connect to the first and second end walls. Each of the side walls of the plurality may be connected, respectively, on each side to a different side wall. The opening may be provided through the laminated material of one of the side walls of the plurality. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 17 / 43 14 / 37

[0086] At least one side wall may be formed from a continuous, uninterrupted portion of the folded laminate. That is, the folded laminate material may extend continuously in a single plane, without interruption by at least one seal. The opening may be arranged through the continuous portion of the folded laminate of the side wall. The absence of a seal on this side wall may provide space to accommodate a larger opening, such as a wide-neck opening.

[0087] In other words, the open side of the container may not have a seal where two different portions of the laminated material are sealed to each other.

[0088] When at least four side walls are provided, at least two side walls or at least three side walls may not contain a seal. One side wall may contain a seal or edge seal. The edge seal may be formed along one longitudinal side of the container.

[0089] The opening can be arranged through a flat portion of the folded laminated material.

[0090] Indicators such as markings and / or images of the contents of the container / product (such as food or tablets) may be printed or otherwise provided on the laminated material. Markings may be provided on one or both of the first and second end walls. Markings may be provided on one, some, or all of the side walls. Markings may be provided on at least one folded flap, when present.

[0091] The indications provided on at least one portion of a folded flap may align with the corresponding indications provided on at least one of the respective end walls to provide any continuous image(s), logo(s) or letter(s), for example. When a folded flap is placed over indications on one of the first and second end walls, the indications on the folded flap may be substantially the same as the hidden or covered indications on the first or second end walls.

[0092] Aligning the marks provided on the folded flap(s) with the marks on the respective end walls allows the marks on the folded flap(s) and the respective end walls to form a substantially uniform appearance. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, p. 18 / 43 15 / 37 continuous in relation to the marks. This provides a more aesthetically pleasing container.

[0093] The opening can be sealed by a foil cap or foil laminate. For example, the foil can be aluminum. The foil cap may be preferred for aseptic packaging applications. The foil cap can prevent the entry of one or more of the following elements: moisture, light, oxygen, and bacteria.

[0094] The laminated lid seal may be made of laminated paper. A discreet closure may be provided over the lid seal to protect it before opening the chamber and to allow the opening to be closed after the lid seal has been breached.

[0095] The opening may be closed again or substantially closed again by means of a closure, cap or cover. For example, the closure may be a screw-on or snap-on cap. The closure or cap may be suitable for sealing the opening against product escaping from the chamber and / or sealing the opening against air entering from outside the chamber.

[0096] The latch, cap, or cover may include a top wall with a top wall area equal to or greater than the opening to cover the opening. The top wall may be a flat top wall. The latch, cap, or cover may include a circumferential rim on the wall. The latch, cap, or cover may include a thread around the circumferential rim to cooperate with a corresponding thread provided on the container. The corresponding thread may be provided on a neck fixed to the container body, for example.

[0097] The lock or lid may include marking(s) or image(s) corresponding to the product contained in the container. The marking(s) or image(s) may be applied to the top wall (preferably flat).

[0098] The closure may be positioned substantially above the opening. The closure may be positioned on an edge of the container. In other words, the closure may not penetrate substantially into the container. Positioning the closure on an edge or outside the container provides a substantially empty internal volume to receive the product. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 19 / 43 16 / 37

[0099] To dispense the product, the closure or lid can be detached or removed from the container. For example, a screw-on lid can be removed.

[0100] The container may not include a pump dispenser. That is, a pump dispenser cannot be part of the closure, lid, or other device used to close or seal the opening. A pump dispenser is particularly unsuitable when the product is solid or powdered, or when the product is viscous, for example.

[0101] Furthermore, it should be noted that a pump dispenser requires a small opening area to facilitate a comparatively large bonding area for the part of the pump dispenser bonded to the container. In addition to the small opening and large bonding area, a pump dispenser needs to be used in a relatively rigid container structure; otherwise, the pressure applied to the pump dispenser during use will excessively deform the container walls and may crack them, causing product leakage.

[0102] The closure can be made of metal, such as aluminum, or of plastic.

[0103] The metal foil closure and seal can be supplied as part of the container.

[0104] When a threaded cap is used, a portion of the neck or receiving portion of the cap may be secured or sealed to the side wall to screw the cap into place.

[0105] When a press-fit lid is used, the lid can form a substantial seal on the edge of the opening by virtue of the press-fit connection. The press-fit lid may extend into the chamber to some extent.

[0106] The closure or lid may have the same color, pattern, or color palette as the markings on the container. This can help to pair or match a correct lid with a container where there are several containers of similar size open at the same time, and can be useful if there are several containers of different sizes but with latches of the same size. This can prevent cross-contamination of the product between containers.

[0107] The locking mechanism may be a childproof cap. A childproof cap may be preferable when the container contains medicinal and / or medicinal products. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, p. 20 / 43 17 / 37 nutraceuticals. The closure may be provided in addition to the foil cap. The closure may allow the container to be substantially resealed to extend the shelf life of the product in the container, for example, after a metal seal has been broken (if present).

[0108] The container may contain or be used to contain products such as fast-moving consumer goods. The product may contain wet or dry products. The product may contain solid or semi-solid products (where a semi-solid product contains at least some solids or is a fluid solid, or contains some solid and some liquid portions). The product may contain liquids.

[0109] The container may contain or be suitable for containing viscous liquid products.

[0110] The container may contain liquid or product that cannot be easily poured out and / or pumped. For example, the product may contain a solid product stored in / under a liquid (e.g., pickled cucumbers in vinegar or brine).

[0111] Products may include one or more of the following: A food or drink, such as mayonnaise, peanut butter, chocolate spread, nuts, baby food, coffee beans or coffee granules / powder (or any other granules / powder), pasta sauce, mustard, jam, fresh cream, canned foods, flour, salt, microwaveable foods and confectionery; A health and beauty product (or cosmetic product), such as any infant formula, lotion, gel, cream, powder, or other solid; A medicinal product, such as a digestive aid (for digestive health), a plurality of capsules (or tablets / pills), oral medication, and ointment; A nutraceutical product, such as a variety of vitamin tablets, supplements, and protein powder.

[0112] The container can be used to package a product such as: pet food, oil and / or grease and industrial powder.

[0113] The container or laminated material may be suitable for microwave irradiation to heat the product contained therein (i.e., it may be a container suitable for Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 21 / 43 18 / 37 microwave). For example, if the container holds food or contents suitable for microwaves, the laminated material and the closure must be made of microwave-safe materials.

[0114] The container may be a chemical container for holding solid chemicals, such as laboratory chemicals. The chamber of the container (or the inward-facing surface(s) of the laminated material) may be coated with an inert or passivating layer, such as a polymer layer or a metallic layer, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or platinum, for example. It is important to note that other polymers or metals (or materials) may be used, provided they are compatible with the product in the chamber.

[0115] For example, the container may be suitable for holding a non-edible chemical or a household chemical. In some examples, the container may hold any of the following: washing powder, soap capsules, dishwasher capsules / tablets, or an industrial chemical. For example, soda crystals or another drain cleaner chemical may be supplied.

[0116] The container therefore offers a safer way to store household products, compared to simple cardboard boxes that can be opened relatively easily by a child, as well as being a more environmentally friendly option than conventional glass and plastic packaging.

[0117] The container is preferable for use where the chemical in question does not require specific protective packaging. For example, a spill absorbent or garden fertilizer can be supplied in the container.

[0118] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for manufacturing a folded laminated container. The method may comprise the steps of: i. folding a sheet of laminated material into a container body having a first end wall, a second end wall, and at least one side wall connecting the first and second end walls, a chamber in the container body being defined by the first end wall, the second end wall, and at least one side wall, and an opening. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 22 / 43 19 / 37 being provided through the laminated material of at least one side wall, the opening spanning at least about half a distance through the open side wall in a direction orthogonal from the first end wall to the second end wall; ii. seal the laminated material in the shape of the container body so that the chamber is suitable for containing a product, including at least one seal: a) on at least one side wall and offset from the opening, or b) located on the first end wall or the second end wall (but not on the side wall with the opening).

[0119] The advantages are similar to those discussed in relation to the first aspect of the invention.

[0120] Folding of laminated material sheet may include folding one or more portions of the sheet into a plurality of folded flaps.

[0121] The laminated material may be pre-creased, or the method may include the step of providing creases or pre-folds in the laminated material.

[0122] The opening can be provided or formed through the laminated material before the folding step.

[0123] The closure or neck portion can be applied to the rolled material before the folding step.

[0124] The laminated material can be initially bent into a tubular structure, followed by bending the respective portions of the material into the end walls. An edge seal can be formed longitudinally by overlapping the material and sealing along the overlap.

[0125] Sealing the laminated material in the shape of the container may include sealing the folded parts at the end walls to prevent spillage or leakage of the product.

[0126] Sealing the laminated material may include sealing some of the folded flaps on the container body at the first end wall. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 23 / 43 20 / 37

[0127] Sealing the laminated material may include sealing some of the folded flaps on the container body at the second end wall, opposite the first end wall.

[0128] It is not possible to provide a seal in the laminated material on or through the open side wall.

[0129] In another aspect of the method, at least one seal may be placed on at least one side wall and offset from the opening, instead of being on a different wall from the opening.

[0130] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a container is provided for a product, the container being formed of a laminated material folded as the container body, having a first end wall of the laminated material, a second end wall of the laminated material and at least one side wall of the laminated material connecting the first and second end walls together, wherein the first end wall, the second end wall and at least one side wall define a chamber for containing the product, in which an opening is provided through the laminated material of at least one side wall, a means of the opening being disposed in a first central plane of the container and also in a second central plane of the container, the second central plane being orthogonal to the first central plane, and the container body including at least one seal for sealing the laminated material folded as the container body,at least one seal being: a) located on the first end wall or the second end wall, or b) on at least one side wall and offset from the opening.

[0131] Any feature or combination of features independently selected and presented with respect to the first aspect of the invention may be provided in the third aspect of the invention.

[0132] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for manufacturing a folded laminated container. The method may comprise the steps of: Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 24 / 43 21 / 37 i. folding a sheet of laminated material into a container body having a first end wall, a second end wall, and at least one side wall connecting the first and second end walls, a chamber in the container body being defined by the first end wall, the second end wall, and at least one side wall, and an opening being provided through the laminated material of at least one side wall, in which a means of the opening is disposed in a first central plane of the container body and also in a second central plane of the container body that is orthogonal to the first central plane; ii. seal the laminated material in the shape of the container body so that the chamber is suitable for containing a product, including at least one seal: a) on at least one side wall and offset from the opening, or b) arranged on the first end wall or on the second end wall.

[0133] Any feature or combination of features independently selected and presented with respect to the second aspect of the invention may be provided in the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0134] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a laminated material is provided for aseptic or retort packaging, the laminated material comprising a first layer, an adhesive layer and a second layer for rigidity, the first and second layers being made of different materials, the first and second layers being substantially coextensive, and the first and second layers being releasable bonded, wherein: The first layer is made of a metal or metal alloy that encloses the chamber to prevent oxygen and / or light from passing through the laminated material into the chamber; and the second layer is made of a cellulosic material or cardboard.

[0135] Optional features are provided in dependent claims.

[0136] Advantageously, laminated material is easier to recycle than currently available laminated materials. The removable bonded layers can be separated to facilitate recycling. This can improve compliance rates. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 25 / 43 22 / 37 with recycling, allowing the user to choose to recycle the laminate (or its container) instead of disposing of it in a regular trash container.

[0137] Laminated material may not contain polyethylene or may not contain a polyethylene adhesive (or, in other words, may not contain a polyethylene-based or polyethylene-derived adhesive). Laminated materials constructed with a polyethylene adhesive are more difficult to recycle.

[0138] The laminated material can be supplied or folded into the form of a cardboard box, jar or bottle body.

[0139] The bottle body may be the container described in the first, second, third or fourth aspects of the present invention.

[0140] One or more markings may be provided on the outside of the laminated material. A cover or sticker with one or more markings may be provided over the laminated material.

[0141] The first layer may form an end layer. Metal or metal alloy may include one or more of the following: aluminum, stainless steel, copper, iron, brass, tin, silver, titanium, nickel, and bronze.

[0142] At least one of the first and second layers may include a tab to facilitate separation of the first and second layers.

[0143] The laminated material may comprise a third layer including glassine paper to form a glassine paper end layer. The third layer may be removablely attached to at least one of the first and second layers, for example, by a second adhesive layer or other means.

[0144] The laminated material may consist substantially of only the metal / alloy layer, the adhesive layer and the cellulose layer, optionally with another adhesive layer and the parchment paper layer.

[0145] In preferred embodiments, a portion of the first layer may provide (or may form) at least part of a flap that lies outside a perimeter of the second layer.

[0146] That is, most of the first layer may be within the perimeter of the second layer. However, a small portion of the first layer may be Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 26 / 43 23 / 37 extend beyond one side edge of the second layer. This creates an area to join the first layer to itself when folding the laminated material into a container.

[0147] A profile of the first layer may not be coextensive with a profile of the second layer. The laminated material may have a first edge. The laminated material may have a second edge opposite the first edge. The first and second layers may each have a first lateral extension on the first edge and a second lateral extension on the second edge. The lateral extension of the first layer on the first edge may be greater than the lateral extension of the second layer on the first edge. The lateral extension of the second layer on the second edge may be greater than the lateral extension of the first layer on the second edge.

[0148] When the container is folded, the different lateral extensions of the layers may allow a portion of one side of the first layer to connect to an opposite side of the first layer. A portion of one side of the second layer may connect to an opposite side of the second layer.

[0149] A portion of a first face of each layer can be connected to a portion of a second face of that layer.

[0150] An opening may or may not be provided through the laminated material. That is, the laminated material may be used to form a container according to the first aspect, for example, or it may be used to form a different container.

[0151] According to another aspect of the invention, a container is provided for a product, the container being formed of a folded laminated material as a container body, having a first end wall of the laminated material, a second end wall of the laminated material and at least one side wall of the laminated material connected to the first end wall in a first fold and connected to the second end wall in a second fold, to at least one side wall connecting the first and second end walls together, wherein the first end wall, the second end wall and the at least one side wall define a chamber for containing the product, in which an opening is provided through the laminated material of the at least one side wall, the opening spanning at least about half a distance through the Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 27 / 43 24 / 37 open side wall in an orthogonal direction from the first end wall to the second end wall, and the container body includes at least one seal to seal the folded laminated material as the container body, the at least one seal being disposed: a) at least on the first end wall or on the second end wall, but not on the open side wall, or b) on at least one side wall and offset from the opening.

[0152] According to another aspect of the invention, a method for manufacturing a folded laminated container is provided, comprising the steps of: i. folding a sheet of laminated material into a container body having a first end wall, a second end wall, and at least one side wall connected to the first end wall at a first fold and connected to the second end wall at a second fold, at least one side wall connecting the first and second end walls together, a chamber in the container body being defined by the first end wall, the second end wall, and at least one side wall, and an opening being provided through the laminated material of at least one side wall, the opening spanning at least about half a distance through the open side wall in a direction orthogonal from the first end wall to the second end wall; ii. seal the laminated material in the shape of the container body, so that the chamber is suitable for containing a product, including at least one seal arranged: a) at least on the first end wall or on the second end wall, but not on the open side wall, or b) on at least one side wall and offset from the opening.

[0153] Any aspect of the invention may include any feature or features presented in relation to any other aspect of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0154] For a better understanding of the present invention and to show more clearly how it can be put into practice, reference is now made, by way of example, only to the accompanying drawings, in which: Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, p. 28 / 43 25 / 37 Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a container according to the present invention; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a container according to the present invention; Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of a container according to the present invention; Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a container according to the present invention; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a container according to the present invention; Figure 6 shows a second perspective view of the fifth container from Figure 5, representing orthogonal central planes of the container; Figure 7 shows a top perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the container according to the present invention; Figure 8 shows a cross-section of a first embodiment of a laminated material; Figure 9 shows a plan view of the laminated material of Figure 8; Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a first edge of the laminated material from Figure 8 bonded to a second edge of the laminated material; Figure 11 shows a cross-section of the first edge of the laminated material from Figure 8 bonded to the second edge of the laminated material; Figure 12 shows a cross-section of a second embodiment of a laminated material; Figure 13 shows a plan view of the laminated material of Figure 12; and Figure 14 shows a perspective view of a first edge of the laminated material from Figure 12 bonded to a second edge of the laminated material. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED MODALITIES

[0155] Referring first to Figure 1, a container according to the present invention is generally indicated in 10. The container 10 can be used to contain a product, such as a viscous liquid or powder. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, page 29 / 43 26 / 37

[0156] The container is formed from a folded laminated material 12. The folded laminated material 12 defines a chamber to receive a product.

[0157] Although container 10 is shown in partial view, it can be observed that it has six main faces which provide a substantially cubic body. The laminated material 12 provides a barrier against the entry of oxygen, moisture and UV rays into container 10.

[0158] A wide opening (or wide-neck opening) 14 is provided. The wide-neck opening 14 is disposed through an upper face of the container 10 in the orientation shown, as described below. The opening 16 is substantially circular in this embodiment, although other opening shapes may be used in other embodiments.

[0159] A first face is provided on a first end wall 16. The first face can be considered a left-side face of the container. A second face is provided on a second end wall (18, see Figures 2 to 5). The second face can be considered a right-side face. The second end wall 18 is arranged opposite the first end wall 16. The second end wall 18 is substantially similar to the first end wall 16.

[0160] A third face of the container 10 is provided in a first side wall 20. The third face can be considered a top face. The first side wall 20 is arranged adjacent to the first end wall 16 and the second end wall 18. The first side wall 20 connects or extends between the first end wall 16 and the second end wall 18.

[0161] A fourth face of the container 10 is provided in a second side wall 22. The fourth face can be considered a bottom face. The second side wall 22 is arranged adjacent to the first end wall 16 and the second end wall 18. The second side wall 22 is arranged opposite the first side wall 20.

[0162] A fifth face of container 10 is arranged on a third side wall 24. The fifth face can be considered a front face. The third side wall 24 is Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pp. 30 / 43 27 / 37 is arranged adjacent to the first end wall 16 and the second end wall 18. The third side wall 24 is arranged adjacent to the first side wall 20 and the second side wall.

[0163] A sixth face of container 10 is arranged on a fourth side wall (not shown). The sixth face can be considered a back face. The fourth side wall is arranged adjacent to the first end wall 16 and the second end wall 18. The fourth side wall is arranged adjacent to the first side wall 20 and the second side wall 22. The fourth side wall is arranged opposite the third side wall 24.

[0164] In this embodiment, the container 10 can be constructed from a single sheet of the laminated material 12. During manufacturing, the first and second opposite edges of the laminated material sheet are joined. The first and second opposite edges are overlapped and sealed to form an overlapping seal. The laminated sheet, at this stage, forms a tubular structure with a substantially square cross-section.

[0165] The laminated material 12 can be bent and sealed at either end of the tube structure to form the first end wall 16 and the second end wall 18, respectively. The first end wall 16 has a first end wall seal 30. The second end wall 18 has a second end wall seal (36, see Figures 2 to 5).

[0166] Folded flap portions 32 are provided on the first end wall 16 and the second end wall 18. The folded flap portions 32 in this embodiment are formed from the excess material on the first and second end walls 18, as is conventional in the construction of cuboid containers from a substantially rectangular sheet of material. The folded flap portions 32 are folded over the first end wall 16 and the second end wall 18. The folded flap portions 32 are sealed to the first end wall 16 and the second end wall 18. That is, the flap portions Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pp. 31 / 43 28 / 37 folds for the first end wall are arranged opposite the second end wall and vice versa.

[0167] The container 10 has three faces that are substantially free of seals 30 or folded flap portions 32. In this embodiment, the first side wall 20 (i.e., top face), the second side wall 22 (i.e., bottom face) and the third side wall 24 (i.e., front face) are substantially free of seals 30 or folded flap portions 28. In other words, these faces are formed of continuous and uninterrupted portions of the laminated material 12.

[0168] Opening 14 is provided through the first side wall 20. In other words, opening 14 is provided through the top face of the container 10. It should be noted that in other embodiments, opening 14 may be arranged in one or both of the second side walls 22 and third side walls 24. Opening 14 is arranged in the center of the first side wall 20. In other embodiments, opening 14 may be arranged offset from the center of the first side wall 20.

[0169] In this embodiment, the opening 14 is not located on a face comprising the overlapping seal. Positioning the opening 14 on a side wall 20 substantially free of seals or folded flaps 32 allows the opening 14 to occupy a comparatively larger area of ​​the side of the container without crossing a seal 20, which could negatively affect the sealing and the closing mechanism. The opening 14 can be much larger than the opening provided in conventional cardboard boxes. In this embodiment, the opening 14 occupies approximately 50-60% of the total area of ​​the first side wall 20.

[0170] It will be appreciated that slightly smaller openings (e.g., around 40% of the side wall area) can be provided in other embodiments, or that relatively larger openings can be used in other embodiments.

[0171] The opening must be large enough to allow the use of a utensil to remove the product from the container with a spoon or scoop, rather than a pouring motion. Larger openings may be preferable to facilitate this process and to ensure that the occluded or suspended region of the chamber (in the upper corners of the chamber) is Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pp. 32 / 43 29 / 37 more easily accessible, for example, in some cases, to minimize the amount of product adhering to the corner(s) of the chamber.

[0172] The opening 14 is closed by a closure 34. In this embodiment, the closure 34 is a screw cap. In other embodiments, alternative closures 34 may be provided. The closure 34 provides a means of opening and substantially resealing or re-closing the opening 14.

[0173] Referring now to Figures 2 to 5, container 10 can be dimensioned to accommodate or provide chambers of different shapes or relative sizes. Identical reference numbers will be used to refer to equivalent features in all embodiments.

[0174] Referring to Figure 2, a second embodiment of the container according to the present invention is shown in general in 100. Container 100 is intended to replace a conventional pasta sauce jar. Therefore, the markings on the surface include images of tomatoes, which are substantially aligned between the flaps and the walls. The zipper is red to substantially match the markings.

[0175] In this embodiment, container 100 can be sized to accommodate approximately 300 ml to 5 liters of product, for example.

[0176] Referring to Figure 3, a third embodiment of the container according to the present invention is shown generically in 200. Container 200 is intended to replace a jam jar. Therefore, the markings on the surface include images of strawberries, which are substantially aligned between the flaps and the walls. The zipper is red to substantially match the markings.

[0177] In this configuration, the 200 container can be sized to hold approximately 100 ml to 700 ml of product.

[0178] Referring to Figure 4, a fourth embodiment of the container according to the present invention is shown in general in 300. Container 300 is intended to replace ground coffee packaging or containers for coffee granules / beans. Therefore, the markings on the surface include images of coffee beans, with the images substantially aligned between the flaps and the walls. The zipper is brown to substantially match the markings. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pp. 33 / 43 30 / 37

[0179] In this configuration, the 300 container can be sized to hold approximately 200 ml to 1000 ml of product.

[0180] Referring to Figure 5, a fifth embodiment of the container according to the present invention is generally shown in 400. Container 400 replaces a pharmaceutical or nutraceutical bottle / container. Therefore, the markings on the surface include images of tablets or capsules, the images being substantially aligned between the flaps and the walls. The zipper is beige or light brown to substantially match the markings. This container may also be suitable for storing chewing gum, for example.

[0181] In this configuration, the 400 container can be sized to hold approximately 25 ml to 150 ml of product.

[0182] In the embodiments of Figures 2 to 5, indications 40 are provided on the outer or outward-facing surfaces of the laminated material 12. The indications 40 provide an indication of the product stored in the container 100, 200, 300, 400. It should be noted that in other embodiments, the indications 40 may include branding material and / or textual information about the product, for example. The indications may partially cover the surface of the container or may completely cover the body of the container.

[0183] In these embodiments, each of the closures 36 is color-coded for the indications 40. This facilitates the identification of the product in the container 100, 200, 300, 400.

[0184] As can be clearly seen in Figure 2, the indications 40 are provided on the folded flaps 32 as well as on the main body of the container. The markings 40 on the folded flaps 32 align with the corresponding markings 40 located on the second end wall 18.The alignment of the indications 40 on the folded tabs 32 and on the second end wall 18 produces a consistent image on the right face of the container 100. In other words, a complete image can be displayed on the right face, even though the folded tabs 32 cover parts of the second end wall 18.

[0185] Referring also to Figure 6, a first plane 50 is shown. The first plane 50 passes through the center of the first end wall (on the left side of Figure 6) and the center of the second end wall 18. A second plane 52 is Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pages 34 / 43 31 / 37 shown passing through the center of the third side wall 24 and the fourth side wall (at the rear of the container seen in Figure 6). In other words, planes 50 and 52 each pass through an opposite pair of end / side walls. The second plane 52 is orthogonal to the first plane 50. The opening 14 is positioned so that it is centered on both the first plane 50 and the second plane 52. That is, the center of the opening 14 is located at a point where the first plane 50 intersects the second plane 52.

[0186] Referring to Figure 7, another embodiment of a container is usually indicated in 500. The 500 container is similar to the containers in the previous embodiments.

[0187] A large or wide neck opening 514 is provided, which, in this example, is almost as wide as the side wall through which the opening 514 is provided. The opening 514, in this embodiment, occupies most of the area of ​​the perforated side of the container 500. The diameter of the opening 514 for this container may be in the range of 7 cm to 14 cm, for example, although integer values ​​within and outside this range are also contemplated.

[0188] A flat wall 522 is provided at the base of the chamber, opposite the opening 514. The flat wall 522 is substantially flat or planar throughout its length and width. There is no recess or cavity in the flat wall 522.

[0189] A 535 seal on the laminated chamber side is visible through the base.

[0190] A neck or portion of a neck 534a is provided around the perimeter of the opening to receive a threaded closure or cap 534. A corresponding thread is provided around the outside of the neck 534a. Similar necks may be provided in other embodiments, or a snap-fit ​​closure may be used, or any other suitable seal or closure may be provided. That is, a threaded cap is not essential, although it may be preferable.

[0191] The screw-on cap 534 of this embodiment is shown unscrewed from the container in Figure 7. The cap 534 includes an upper wall (viewed from the front in Figure 7) which has an upper wall area approximately equal to or slightly larger than the opening 514. This area allows the upper wall to cover the entire opening 514. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pages 35 / 43 32 / 37 when cap 534 is connected to neck 534a. There is a rim around the top wall and a thread around the inside of the circumferential rim that cooperates with the thread of neck 534a.

[0192] The aerial view in Figure 7 shows that the bottleneck is much wider than it is tall (in the direction opposite the camera, defined by the laminated walls). For example, the bottleneck may be only about 2 to 3 cm high, but it may be 3 to 4 times wider than that.

[0193] An important advantage of the present invention is having an easily recyclable container with a large opening through which a specific quantity of product can be easily removed. Although each of the previous embodiments of the container is closed by a screw-on lid, it is important to note that other types of closure, lid or opening seal can be provided as needed. However, a pump dispenser type closure is not provided in any of the embodiments, as a pump dispenser is not suitable for removing a specific quantity of product, such as solid foods, viscous foods or other solids, from the container.

[0194] It will also be appreciated that various other embodiments of the container are possible, and features of these different embodiments can be provided in any combination. The shape of the opening is preferably circular, but may have another suitable shape if desired. Although cubic or cuboid containers have been described above, it will be appreciated that any suitable container shape can be provided by folding and sealing the laminated material appropriately.

[0195] Referring now to Figure 8, a laminated material is generally shown in 1010. The 1010 laminate can be used to form a container. The container can be a cardboard box or a bottle, for example. The container can be any of the 10, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 containers described above, provided that an opening is cut, stamped or otherwise provided in a suitable position in the laminate. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pages 36 / 43 33 / 37

[0196] In a preferred embodiment, the container is an aseptic container for holding food, beverages, health and beauty products, medicinal products, nutraceutical products, household products such as cleaning products and garden chemicals, or automotive products such as oils, lubricants and waxes.

[0197] Laminated material 1010 has two layers connected in a detachable manner by adhesive. This facilitates the separation of different layers of material for recycling. The relative thicknesses of the layers and the adhesive in Figure 7 are not necessarily shown to scale.

[0198] The laminated material comprises a first layer 1012 and a second layer 1016. The first layer 1012 and the second layer 1016 are bonded together by adhesive 1014. Adhesive 1014 provides a degree of adhesion. The degree of adhesion is sufficient to keep the first and second layers 1012 and 1016 bonded together during use. The degree of adhesion can be overcome by a person manually peeling the first layer 1012 from the second layer 1016, as described in more detail below.

[0199] The first layer 1012 is made of aluminum or aluminum foil. The first layer 1012 provides a barrier. When molded into a container, the first layer 1012 attenuates the entry of light, oxygen, moisture, and bacteria through the laminated material 1010.It should be noted that, in other embodiments, the first 1012 layer can be made of other suitable materials, such as another metal or a metal alloy (which can be selected from aluminum, stainless steel, copper, iron, brass, tin, silver, titanium, nickel, and bronze). In this embodiment, the aluminum / sheet has a thickness of 20 to 30 microns. The first 1012 layer is an end layer.

[0200] The second 1016 layer is made of cardboard. The second 1016 layer provides strength and / or rigidity to the laminate. When used to form the container, the second 1016 layer must provide structural integrity to the container.

[0201] Laminated material 1010 can be used to form a container. A plan view of laminated material 1010 used to form a container is shown in Figure 9. The first layer 1012 is shown laid over the second layer 1016. Laminated material 1010 is substantially rectangular. Laminated material 1010 has a first edge region 1018 and a second edge region 1020. The first and the Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pp. 37 / 43 34 / 37 second edges 1018 and 1020 are arranged opposite each other. The laminate has a third edge region 1022 and a fourth edge region 1024. The third and fourth edges 1022 and 1024 are arranged opposite each other. The third and fourth edges 1022 and 1024 are arranged adjacent to the first and second edges 1018 and 1020.

[0202] It can be observed that the laminated material 1010 in Figure 9 has a first rectangular layer that overlaps and is slightly offset from a second rectangular layer. This means that the second edge 1020 of the first layer does not overlap the second layer 1016 (for example, as seen in plan view), but the other three edges of the first layer overlap the second layer 1016. In this example, the first layer 1012 has approximately the same length as the second layer 1016, although offset from the second layer, and the first layer is also less wide than the second layer.

[0203] In other words, the second layer 1016 overlaps the first layer 1012 at the first edge 1018, and also at the two lateral edges, third and fourth. The first layer 1012 overlaps the second layer 1016 at the second edge 1020.

[0204] The difference in lateral extension on the first edge 1018 and the second edge 1020 facilitates the connection of the first edge 1018 to the second edge 1020, to form a seal 1030. As part of the seal 1030, part of the first layer 1012 connects to another part of the first layer 1012, and part of the second layer 1016 connects to another part of the second layer 1016.

[0205] Figures 10 and 11 illustrate the seal 1030 between the first and second edges 1018, 1020. The first layer 1012 on the second edge 1020 encloses or is folded over / around the second layer 1016. The second edge region 1020 is brought into contact with the first edge region 1018 when forming the seal 1030.

[0206] To form the seal 1030, a first face of the first layer 1012 on the first edge 1018 is placed in contact with a second face of the first layer 1012 on the second edge 1020. A first face of the second layer 1016 on the first edge 1018 is placed in contact with a second face of the second layer 1016 on the second edge 1020. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pages 38 / 43 35 / 37

[0207] In other words, a portion of the first layer 1012 on one edge joins an additional portion of the first layer 1012 on the opposite edge, usually indicated at 1042 in Figure 5. A portion of the second layer 1016 on one edge joins an additional portion of the second layer 1016 on the opposite edge, usually indicated at 1044 in Figure 5.

[0208] The connection between the first layer 1012 on the first edge 1018 and the first layer 1012 on the second edge 1020 may be stronger than the connection between the first layer 1012 and the second layer 1016. The connection between the second layer 1012 on the first edge 1018 and the second layer 1012 on the second edge 1020 may be stronger than the connection between the first layer 1012 and the second layer 1016.

[0209] In this embodiment, the 1042 bond between each face of the first layer 1012 is formed by heat sealing. The 1044 bond between each face of the second layer 1016 is formed by heat sealing. It is important to note that, in other embodiments, the 1042 and 1044 bonds may be formed by means of adhesive, for example.

[0210] The 1030 seal is airtight. It reduces the entry of moisture, air / oxygen and bacteria. The 1030 seal prevents the contents of the container from leaking.

[0211] Portions of folded tabs can be formed and sealed as needed to close the ends of the tube formed by the laminate.

[0212] Laminated material 1010 includes creases 1032, which may be pre-formed creases. In this embodiment, the creases 1032 allow the laminated material 1010 to be folded into the shape of a cardboard box. It is important to note that, in other embodiments, the laminated material 1010 may be formed with creases 1032 in any position necessary to allow the laminated material 1010 to be folded into the shape of a container with the desired shape and / or size.

[0213] Labeling and printing processes can be carried out before the container is constructed. That is, the laminate can be supplied with appropriate markings, such as label(s) and / or other printing, before it is folded / formed into a container. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pp. 39 / 43 36 / 37

[0214] Referring to Figure 12, a second embodiment of laminated material is generally shown in 1300. Laminated material 1300 is substantially similar to that of the first embodiment, except as described now.

[0215] The laminated material 1300 of the second embodiment includes a third layer 1302. The third layer 1302 includes or is made of glassine paper. The third layer 1302 is an end layer. The third layer 1302 is removablely connected to the second layer 1016 by a second adhesive layer 1304, providing a certain degree of adhesion. Alternatively, as shown in Figure 13, the third layer 1302 is removablely connected to the first layer 1012 by a second adhesive layer 1304, providing a certain degree of adhesion. The adhesive may be the same as the first adhesive or it may be a different adhesive. Similar to the layers of the first embodiment of the laminated material, the degree of adhesion between the second layer 1016 and the third layer 1302 (or the first layer 1012 and the third layer 1302) can be overcome by an individual manually peeling off these layers.

[0216] As shown in Figures 13 and 14, a container can be made from the second embodiment of laminated material 1300 in a manner similar to that described for the first embodiment of laminated material 1010.

[0217] It can be observed that the laminated material 1010 in Figure 13 has a first rectangular layer that overlaps and is slightly offset from a second rectangular layer, and a third rectangular layer that overlaps and is slightly offset from the first layer. This means that the second edge 1020 of the first layer does not overlap the second layer 1016, and the adjacent edge of the third layer does not overlap the first layer (for example, as seen in plan view). However, the other three edges of the first layer overlap the second layer 1016, and the other three corresponding edges of the third layer overlap the first layer. In this example, the first layer 1012 has approximately the same length as the second layer 1016, although offset from the second layer, and the first layer is also less wide than the second layer. Similarly, in this example, the third layer 1302 has approximately the same length as the first layer 1012, although Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pages 40 / 43 37 / 37 offset from the first layer, and the third layer 1302 is also narrower than the first layer.

[0218] In other words, the lateral extent of the first layer 1012 and the second layer 1016 is greater than that of the third layer 1302 in the first boundary region 1018. The lateral extent of the third layer 1302 is greater than the lateral extent of the first layer 1012 and the second layer 1016 in the second boundary region 1020.

[0219] The layers are connected in a manner similar to the previous embodiment of the laminated material 1010. In addition, a first face of the third layer 1302 bonds to a second face of the third layer 1302 at the second edge 1020. The bond between the two faces of the third layer 1302 can be stronger than the degree of adhesion provided by the second adhesive 1304.

[0220] When constructed or supplied as a container, the third layer 1302 can form a parchment paper pouch. The parchment paper pouch can be detached from the rest of the container. The parchment paper pouch is microwave safe. The parchment paper pouch can hold microwave safe food.

[0221] Laminated materials 1010, 1300 have the advantage of being more easily processed for recycling. Layers 1012, 1016, 1302 are removablely attached, allowing the layers to be easily separated into containers for recycling paper and metal, for example. In other embodiments, one or more layers may include one or more tabs to facilitate the separation of the various layers.

[0222] Note that laminated materials 1010 and 1300 do not contain polyethylene. This can further simplify the recycling process of laminated material 1010 and 1300.

[0223] The embodiments described above are provided by way of example only, and various alterations and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. Petition 870250097476, dated 10 / 24 / 2025, pages 41 / 43

Claims

1 / 7 CLAIMS 1. A container for a product, the container characterized in that it is formed of a folded laminated material as a container body, having a first end wall of the laminated material, a second end wall of the laminated material, and at least one side wall of the laminated material connected to the first end wall in a first fold and connected to the second end wall in a second fold, to at least one side wall connecting the first and second end walls together; wherein the first end wall, the second end wall and at least one side wall define a chamber for containing the product;An opening is provided substantially centrally through the laminated material of at least one side wall, the open side wall having an outer perimeter that defines an area of ​​the side wall, the opening covering an area that is at least 40% of the area of ​​the side wall, the opening spanning at least about 71% of a first distance through the open side wall in a direction orthogonal from the first fold in the first end wall to the second fold in the second end wall, and the opening spanning at least about 71% of a second distance through the open side wall, the second distance being orthogonal to the first distance;the opening having an opening perimeter that is closer to the outer perimeter of the open side wall than to the center of the opening at each of a first point on the perimeter of the opening, a second point on the perimeter of the opening, a third point on the perimeter of the opening, and a fourth point on the perimeter of the opening, the first and second points opposite each other across the opening, the third and fourth points opposite each other across the opening, and the first, second, third, and fourth points being equidistantly spaced around the perimeter of the opening; and Petition 870250098135, dated 10 / 27 / 2025, page 5 / 19 2 / 7 the body of the container includes at least one seal to seal the folded laminated material as the body of the container, the at least one seal being disposed: a) at least on the first end wall or on the second end wall, but not on the open side wall, or b) on at least one side wall and offset from the opening.

2. A container, according to claim 1, characterized in that the container has first and second central planes that are orthogonal to each other, and a means of the opening is disposed in the open side wall in a position where the first and second central planes intersect.

3. A container, according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the opening area is at least 50% of the side wall area, and the opening spans at least about 80% of the first distance through the open side wall and at least about 80% of the second distance through the open side wall.

4. A container, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the opening area is at least 60% of the side wall area, and the opening spans at least about 87% of the first distance through the open side wall and at least about 87% of the second distance through the open side wall.

5. A container, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a flat wall is provided at the base of the chamber, opposite the opening on a central axis of the opening, optionally wherein the flat wall does not have a recess or pit.

6. A container, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first pair of folded flap portions are provided or sealed to the first end wall, and a second pair of folded flap portions are provided or sealed to the second end wall, opposite the folded flap portions on the first end wall.

7. Container, according to any previous claim, characterized in that the body of the container has a height / width ratio with respect to the open side wall, the height / width ratio is substantially in the range of 2:1 to 1:2, and the chamber has a volume in the range of 750 ml to 5,000 ml.

8. A container, according to any previous claim, characterized in that the opening is a circular opening, and substantially all points on the perimeter of the opening, except for the first, second, third, and fourth points, are arranged closer to the outer perimeter of the open side wall than to the center of the opening.

9. A container, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening is a wide-necked opening for accepting a utensil, such as a spoon, which is narrower than the opening, for removing the product or products from the chamber by manually inserting and removing the utensil through the opening, the wide-necked opening including a neck for receiving a closure, the neck being glued or connected to the laminated material and extending away from the chamber by a neck height; the neck having a neck width that spans at least about 71% of the first distance through the open side wall in the orthogonal direction from the first fold in the first end wall to the second fold in the second end wall, and the neck width being at least four times greater than the neck height.

10. A container according to claim 9, characterized in that the neck includes at least one flange, and the at least one flange is bonded to the laminated material at least at the corners of one side facing the chamber of the side wall.

11. A container, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening is at least 5 cm wide.

12. A container, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the laminated material does not contain polyethylene and the laminated material includes: a first layer of metal or metal alloy to delimit the chamber and prevent oxygen and / or light from passing through the laminated material into the chamber, an adhesive layer that is not polyethylene, and Petition 870250098135, dated 10 / 27 / 2025, page 7 / 19 4 / 7 a second layer of cellulosic material or cardboard for rigidity, the second layer being substantially coextensive with the first layer, and the first and second layers being removablely fixed by the adhesive layer, one of the first and second layers forming an end layer of the laminated material, optionally wherein one or more indications are provided on the exterior of the laminated material and / or a cover or adhesive with one or more indications is provided over the laminated material.

13. A container according to claim 12, characterized in that the metal or metal alloy includes one or more of the following: aluminum, stainless steel, copper, iron, brass, tin, silver, titanium, nickel, and bronze.

14. Container, according to claim 12 or claim 13, characterized in that at least one of the first layer and the second layer comprises a flap to facilitate manual separation of the first and second layers.

15. A container, according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the laminated material comprises a third layer or third end layer including glassine paper, which is removablely attached to one of the first layer and one of the second layer.

16. A container, according to any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that part of a first side of the first layer is glued to part of an opposite second side of the first layer, and / or part of a first side of the second layer is glued to part of an opposite second side of the second layer.

17. A container, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more additional side walls of the laminated material connect the first and second end walls.

18. Container, according to any previous claim, characterized in that at least one seal includes a first seal for sealing the folded laminate that is provided in the first end wall and a second seal for sealing the folded laminate that is provided in the second end wall.

19. A container, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the body of the container is a substantially cubic container with a square base, or a square prism container, or a cubic container.

20. A container, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that four side walls are provided and at least three of these side walls do not comprise a seal.

21. A container, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening is sealed by a metal foil or aluminum foil lid or closed by a clasp or cap, but not by a pump dispenser.

22. A container, according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the opening is closed by a threaded cap, including an upper wall, having an upper wall area that is equal to or greater than the opening to cover the opening, a circumferential rim on the wall, and a screw thread around the circumferential rim to cooperate with a corresponding screw thread provided in the container.

23. Container, according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the opening is closed by a snap-on lid to seal the opening against the product escaping from the chamber.

24. Method of manufacturing a folded laminated container, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: i. folding a sheet of laminated material into a container body having a first end wall, a second end wall and at least one side wall connected to the first end wall in a first fold and connected to the second end wall in a second fold; at least one side wall connecting the first and second end walls together; a chamber in the container body being defined by the first end wall, the second end wall and at least one side wall; and an opening being provided substantially centrally through the laminated material of the Petition 870250098135, of 10 / 27 / 2025, p. 9 / 19 6 / 7 less a side wall; the open side wall,having an outer perimeter that defines an area of ​​the side wall; the opening covering an area that is at least 40% of the area of ​​the side wall, the opening spanning at least about 71% of a first distance through the open side wall in a direction orthogonal from the first fold in the first end wall to the second fold in the second end wall, and the opening spanning at least about 71% of a second distance through the open side wall, the second distance being orthogonal to the first distance, wherein the opening has an opening perimeter that is closer to the outer perimeter of the open side wall than to a center of the opening at each of a first point on the perimeter of the opening, a second point on the perimeter of the opening, a third point on the perimeter of the opening, and a fourth point on the perimeter of the opening, the first and second points opposite each other through the opening,the third and fourth points opposite each other through the opening, and the first, second, third, and fourth points being equidistantly spaced around the perimeter of the opening; ii. sealing the laminated material in the shape of the container body so that the chamber is suitable for containing a product, including at least one seal arranged: a) at least on the first end wall or on the second end wall, but not on the open side wall, or b) on at least one side wall and offset from the opening.

25. Laminated material for aseptic or retort packaging, characterized in that it includes a chamber, the laminated material without polyethylene, the laminated material including a first layer of metal or metal alloy to delimit the chamber and prevent oxygen and / or light from passing through the laminated material into the chamber; an adhesive layer; and a second layer of cellulosic material or cardboard for rigidity, the second layer being substantially coextensive with the first layer, and the first and second layers being removablely fixed by the adhesive layer. Petition 870250098135, dated 10 / 27 / 2025, page 10 / 19 7 / 7 26. Laminated material, according to claim 25, characterized in that a portion of the first layer provides at least part of a flap that extends beyond the perimeter of the second layer.

27. Laminated material, according to claim 25 or claim 26, characterized in that the adhesive layer does not contain polyethylene.

28. Laminated material, according to any one of claims 25 to 27, characterized in that: the first layer forms an end layer of the laminated material; or the second layer forms an end layer of the laminated material.

29. Laminated material, according to any one of claims 25 to 28, characterized in that at least one of the first layer and the second layer comprises a tab to facilitate manual separation of the first and second layers.

30. Laminated material, according to any one of claims 25 to 29, characterized in that the laminated material comprises a third layer or end-third layer including glassine paper, which is removablely attached by a second adhesive layer or other means to at least one of the first layer and the second layer.

31. Laminated material, according to any one of claims 25 to 29, characterized in that the laminated material consists substantially only of the first layer, the adhesive layer and the second layer.

32. Laminated material, according to claim 30, characterized in that the laminated material consists substantially only of the first layer, the adhesive layer, the second layer, the second adhesive layer or other means, and the third layer. Petition 870250098135, dated 10 / 27 / 2025, page 11 / 19

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