Thermoplastic films and bags with dual fragrance odor control and methods of making the same

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a thermoplastic film comprising dual fragrance odor control. For example, the thermoplastic film may include a first fragrance component, such as a pure oil applied directly to the thermoplastic film. The thermoplastic film may also include an encapsulated fragrance component applied to the thermoplastic film. The encapsulated fragrance component may include a fragrance encapsulated within a plurality of encapsulants and may be configured to delay the release of the fragrance, for example, until a physical interaction is applied to the thermoplastic film.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 136,300, filed January 12, 2021, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. background

[0003] Thermoplastic films are a common component in a wide variety of commercial and consumer products. For example, grocery bags, garbage bags, sacks, and packaging materials are products commonly made from thermoplastic films. Additionally, feminine hygiene products, baby diapers, adult incontinence products, and many other products incorporate thermoplastic films to some extent.

[0004] Regarding garbage bags made of thermoplastic film, malodor from the material placed inside (e.g., garbage) is a significant issue. Specifically, each piece of garbage placed in the bag can potentially be a source of malodor, and many pieces can produce a detectable, strong odor. This strong odor can spread within the garbage bag and throughout the surrounding area, making people unwilling to approach it. In some cases, the odor emanating from the garbage inside the bag becomes offensive enough that users take compensatory actions, such as changing the garbage bag before it becomes full. Therefore, users do not fully benefit from the garbage bag (e.g., they cannot fill it completely).

[0005] Some garbage bag manufacturers apply fragrances to their bags to help control (e.g., mask) odors from the garbage inside. However, these bags typically have a limited supply of fragrance. Furthermore, the fragrance applied to the garbage bags usually runs out before the user finishes using them. For example, a manufacturer might apply a fragrance as a clarifying oil to the garbage bags, which evaporates within a day or two after use. Therefore, while the garbage bag may initially be able to control odors with the fragrance, its effectiveness will diminish over time, allowing the odor to gain influence and eventually overwhelm the fragrance. In some cases, the clarifying oil begins to evaporate shortly after manufacturing and / or within the packaging material, leaving less usable fragrance when the user purchases or uses the garbage bag.

[0006] Furthermore, after a certain period of time, garbage bags with fragrance applied to them typically fail to convey the effectiveness of the fragrance in controlling any current odor. For example, when users become accustomed to the scent associated with the fragrance, the garbage bag cannot indicate that the fragrance is effective in controlling any present odor. Therefore, the garbage bag may fail to instill the belief that it will function as intended.

[0007] Therefore, many factors need to be considered when dealing with thermoplastic films and controlling the odor emitted by materials placed in them.

[0008] Overview

[0009] One or more embodiments of this disclosure utilize thermoplastic films and bags that provide dual fragrance odor control to offer benefits and / or solve one or more of the foregoing or other problems in the art. For example, in one or more embodiments, the thermoplastic film includes a first fragrance component and an encapsulated fragrance component applied to a layer of thermoplastic material. The encapsulated fragrance component may include fragrances encapsulated within a plurality of encapsulants that may delay the release of the fragrance. The fragrances of the encapsulated fragrance component may include the same fragrance as the fragrance of the first fragrance component, different but related fragrances (e.g., within the same fragrance family), or different and unrelated fragrances. When the encapsulated fragrance component is activated to release the fragrance, the thermoplastic film provides enhanced fragrance, demonstrating the performance of the thermoplastic film in controlling odors.

[0010] One or more embodiments include a film comprising a first layer of thermoplastic material, a first fragrance component applied to the first layer of thermoplastic material, and an encapsulating fragrance component applied to the first layer of thermoplastic material. The encapsulating fragrance component comprises fragrance encapsulated within a plurality of encapsulants and is configured to delay the release of the fragrance.

[0011] One or more additional embodiments include a thermoplastic bag comprising a first sidewall and a second sidewall opposite to the first sidewall, the second sidewall being connected to the first sidewall along a first side edge, an opposing second side edge, and a bottom edge. The thermoplastic bag also includes a first fragrance component applied to at least one of the first or second sidewalls and an encapsulating fragrance component applied to at least one of the first or second sidewalls. The encapsulating fragrance component comprises a fragrance encapsulated within a plurality of encapsulants and is configured to delay fragrance release.

[0012] Additionally, one or more embodiments include a method of manufacturing a thermoplastic bag with dual fragrance odor control. The method includes providing a thermoplastic film, applying a first fragrance component to the thermoplastic film, and applying an encapsulating fragrance component to the thermoplastic film. The encapsulating fragrance component comprises a fragrance encapsulated within a plurality of encapsulants and is configured to delay fragrance release. The method further includes forming the thermoplastic film into a bag.

[0013] Additional features and advantages of exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be set forth in the following description, and will be apparent in part from the description, or may be learned by practice of such exemplary embodiments. The features and advantages of such embodiments may be realized and obtained by means of the tools and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by practice of such exemplary embodiments set forth below. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0014] To illustrate how the above and other advantages and features of this disclosure can be obtained, a more specific description of the disclosure briefly described above will be given by reference to specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are not drawn to scale, and for illustrative purposes, elements of similar structure or function are generally represented by the same reference numerals throughout the drawings. It should be understood that these drawings depict only conventional embodiments of the disclosure and therefore are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The disclosure will be described and explained using additional specific features and details, as illustrated in the drawings:

[0015] Figures 1A-1C A partial side sectional view of a thermoplastic film with multiple layers is shown;

[0016] Figure 2 A side sectional view of a thermoplastic bag with dual fragrance odor control according to one or more embodiments is shown;

[0017] Figures 3A-3D The encapsulated fragrance component disposed on a thermoplastic bag according to one or more embodiments is shown to be activated in response to physical interactions;

[0018] Figure 4 A side sectional view of a thermoplastic bag with dual fragrance odor control according to one or more embodiments is shown;

[0019] Figure 5 A side sectional view of another thermoplastic bag with dual fragrance odor control according to one or more embodiments is shown;

[0020] Figure 6A A side sectional view of yet another thermoplastic bag with dual fragrance odor control according to one or more embodiments is shown;

[0021] Figure 6B It shows Figure 6A Enlarged partial side sectional view of the sidewall of a thermoplastic bag;

[0022] Figure 7A schematic diagram of a set of intermeshing rollers according to one or more embodiments is shown, the set of intermeshing rollers being used to form a structurally elastic membrane (SELF) by imparting strainable networks to the membrane while slightly laminating adjacent layers of the membrane.

[0023] Figure 8A This illustrates the method of passing a thermoplastic film through one or more embodiments. Figure 7 A side view of a thermoplastic film produced by intermeshing rollers and applying an encapsulating fragrance component thereon;

[0024] Figure 8B Illustrations are shown according to one or more embodiments Figure 8A A side view of a thermoplastic film with a strain applied to it.

[0025] Figure 8C Illustrations are shown according to one or more embodiments Figure 8B A side view of a thermoplastic film, the thermoplastic film having additional tension applied to it;

[0026] Figure 8D This illustrates the method of passing a multilayer thermoplastic film through one or more embodiments. Figure 7 A structure of thermoplastic film produced by intermeshing rollers and applying encapsulating fragrance components thereon;

[0027] Figure 9 A perspective view of a patterned thermoplastic bag according to one or more embodiments is shown;

[0028] Figures 10A-10B A front view of a thermoplastic bag having another pattern according to one or more embodiments is shown;

[0029] Figures 11A-11B A graph is shown reflecting experimental results reflecting the effectiveness of a thermoplastic bag having an encapsulated fragrance component disposed thereon, according to one or more embodiments;

[0030] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a method for producing a thermoplastic bag with dual fragrance odor control, according to one or more embodiments, is shown; and

[0031] Figure 13 A schematic diagram of another manufacturing method for producing thermoplastic bags with dual fragrance odor control, according to one or more embodiments, is shown. Detailed description

[0032] One or more embodiments of this disclosure include dual fragrance odor control based on fragrance encapsulation. For example, in one or more embodiments, a thermoplastic film or bag includes multiple fragrance components disposed thereon. For example, in some embodiments, the thermoplastic film or bag includes a first fragrance component (such as a pure oil having a fragrance) and an encapsulating fragrance component applied thereon. The encapsulating fragrance component can encapsulate a fragrance (having the same scent, a different scent, or a related scent as the first fragrance component) within multiple encapsulants. The encapsulating fragrance component can also be configured to delay the release of the fragrance from the encapsulant, such that little or no fragrance is released before the encapsulating fragrance component is activated.

[0033] As described above, the thermoplastic film or bag may include a first fragrance component disposed thereon. In one or more embodiments, the first fragrance component includes an unencapsulated fragrance. For example, the first fragrance component may include a pure oil applied directly to the thermoplastic film or bag.

[0034] As otherwise mentioned, the thermoplastic film or bag may include an encapsulating fragrance component different from the first fragrance component. Specifically, the encapsulating fragrance component may include fragrances within a plurality of encapsulants. As described above, the fragrance may include the same fragrance as, related to, or unrelated to the fragrance associated with the first fragrance component. When the encapsulating fragrance component includes a fragrance having the same fragrance as that associated with the first fragrance component, the thermoplastic film or bag provides an enhanced fragrance. When the encapsulating fragrance component includes fragrances with different fragrances, the thermoplastic film or bag also provides a varied fragrance experience. In some embodiments, the first fragrance component includes an additional encapsulating fragrance component, such that the thermoplastic film or bag includes multiple encapsulating fragrance components.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component is co-extruded with the thermoplastic material of the thermoplastic film or bag, such that the encapsulating fragrance component is embedded in the material itself. In some embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component is applied to the thermoplastic material after extrusion (e.g., using a liquid or powder). For example, the encapsulating fragrance component may be disposed on the surface of the thermoplastic material (e.g., in a pattern—such as stripes, a series of dots, or other predetermined patterns—or as a complete layer partially or completely covering the surface), within the folds of the thermoplastic material, or between the first and second layers of the thermoplastic material.

[0036] Furthermore, as described above, in one or more embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance components are configured to delay the release of the fragrance. Specifically, in some embodiments, multiple encapsulants are configured to delay the release of the fragrance until activated. For example, in some embodiments, multiple encapsulants are configured to retain the fragrance until activated by physical interaction applied to the thermoplastic film. In response to the physical interaction, the multiple encapsulants can release the fragrance, thereby providing odor control. Thus, the thermoplastic film or bag is able to retain the fragrance until, for example, a consumer interacts with the thermoplastic film or bag (e.g., placing a garbage bag in a garbage bin or throwing away garbage items into a garbage bag). In some cases, multiple encapsulants are configured to retain the fragrance until activated by contact with moisture (e.g., water vapor particles). In still other embodiments, multiple encapsulants are configured to release the fragrance by diffusion. For example, multiple encapsulants can gradually release the fragrance over time, which will be discussed in more detail below. Thus, the thermoplastic film or bag reduces the amount of fragrance depleted after manufacturing and before purchase. Furthermore, the thermoplastic film or bag expands the availability of the encapsulating fragrance components when odor control is required. Upon activation, the encapsulating fragrance component also provides enhanced fragrance, demonstrating the performance of the thermoplastic film or bag in controlling odors.

[0037] Therefore, the first fragrance component provides a primary or first fragrance experience. When the primary fragrance experience fades or in response to an activation trigger, the encapsulated fragrance experience provides a second or additional fragrance experience. This dual fragrance experience helps ensure that the fragrance remains detectable for a longer period than conventional fragrance technologies. Furthermore, the second fragrance experience can be activated in response to consumer interaction points, exposure to moisture (e.g., water vapor particles), or exposure to particles at specific pH levels or within specific pH ranges (e.g., odor particles emitted from litter). Thus, the second fragrance experience can signal to the user that the bag is eliminating odor as needed. Along the related route, when the encapsulated fragrance differs from the primary fragrance, the release of the encapsulated fragrance can provide increased salience if the user is already accustomed to the primary fragrance or if it otherwise provides a surprising experience.

[0038] As discussed above, this disclosure utilizes various terms to describe the features and benefits of one or more embodiments. Additional details regarding the meaning of these terms are now provided. As used herein, the term "odor" refers to any substance that can stimulate a human olfactory response (i.e., the sense of smell). As used herein, the term "stench" and any derivative thereof refer to odors that are generally considered unpleasant, offensive, or nauseating by the general population, such as broad-spectrum odors associated with household waste, including odors associated with stale urine, feces, vomit, and decaying organic matter (e.g., food waste) in common household waste. As used herein, the term "odor particles" refers to particles or molecules carrying odors. Although it will be understood that odor particles include any particles or molecules carrying odors, examples of odor particles include those derived from sulfide chemicals (e.g., dipropyl trisulfide, propyl mercaptan, dimethyl sulfide, dimethyl trisulfide, methanethiol, hydrogen sulfide, etc.), nitrogen chemicals (e.g., trimethylamine, etc.), or fatty acids, aldehydes, ketones, and / or esters (e.g., demasenone, nonenal, pentanal, methylthion, amyl acetate, etc.).

[0039] In contrast to odor as used herein, the term "fragrance" refers to any mixture or composition comprising one or more fragrance raw materials, which may or may not have one or more carrier solvents configured to emit a pleasant odor. Specifically, a fragrance can refer to a mixture or composition having an odor generally considered fresh, inviting, aromatic, or desirable. For example, a fragrance can include, but is not limited to, substances having odors associated with fruits, flowers, other plants, or baked goods. A fragrance can include one or more gaseous, liquid, colloidal suspensions, and / or solid substances. In one or more embodiments, a fragrance includes volatile fragrance materials (i.e., fragrance materials capable of being delivered to the olfactory system). For example, a fragrance can include top, middle, and / or bottom features consisting of aromatic materials and other functional groups (e.g., ketones, aldehydes, alcohols, etc.). In some embodiments, a fragrance includes functional fragrance raw materials (e.g., neutralizing chemicals such as reactive aldehydes) or sensory modifiers (e.g., receptor blockers). As used herein, the term "fragrance" refers to a compound utilized for its appealing odor. In the context of this disclosure, a compound may have a pleasant odor without being used as a fragrance.

[0040] Relatedly, as used herein, the term "fragrance" refers to an odor. For example, fragrance can refer to an odor associated with a flavoring agent. For instance, a flavoring agent that smells like a particular fruit can be described as having the fragrance of that fruit or smelling "fragrant" like that fruit. Flavoring agents can be derived directly from sources associated with the fragrance of the flavoring agent (e.g., by including particles from that source in the substance) or manufactured from other sources (natural or synthetic).

[0041] Furthermore, as used herein, the term "fragrance component" refers to a structure or compound that contains a fragrance. For example, a fragrance component may include encapsulated fragrance components or absolutes or other non-encapsulated compounds that contain fragrances. As used herein, the terms "encapsulated fragrance component" or "encapsulated fragrance" more specifically refer to a structure or compound that includes one or more encapsulants and a fragrance encapsulated within one or more encapsulants.

[0042] As used herein, the term "encapsulant" refers to a composition capable of at least partially encapsulating another composition, such as a fragrance (or other odor-controlling active substance). Specifically, an encapsulant may be incorporated into or encapsulate a fragrance (or other odor-controlling active substance). For example, an encapsulant may comprise a shell or matrix composition surrounding a fragrance. In one or more embodiments, the encapsulant is configured to release a fragrance in response to activation triggering. For example, an encapsulant may be configured to release a fragrance in response to physical interactions (such as physical tension or friction applied to a thermoplastic film or bag to which the encapsulant is disposed) applied. For illustration, encapsulants may include, but are not limited to, compositions made from melamine-formaldehyde, polyurethane, polyacrylates, starch, polysaccharides, β-cyclodextrin / cyclodextrin or other polymers, waxes, etc. As a non-limiting example, an encapsulant may comprise a formaldehyde-based shell that is flexible in liquid form (e.g., for applying the encapsulant to a thermoplastic film or bag) and becomes brittle as it dries. Therefore, the physical interactions applied to the thermoplastic film can cause multiple encapsulants to crack during drying.

[0043] In some embodiments, the encapsulant is configured to release an aroma agent in response to the presence of odor particles. For example, the encapsulant may be configured to release an aroma agent in response to the presence of particles / materials containing sulfide chemicals, nitrogenous chemicals, fatty acids, aldehydes, ketones, esters, or other odor particles. As a non-limiting example, the encapsulant may comprise a lattice of a basic material that decomposes in the presence of volatile fatty acids (or other low-pH odors) due to an acid-base reaction, releasing an aroma agent. As another non-limiting example, the encapsulant may comprise a flexible matrix (e.g., a matrix generated from polymer chains) encapsulating an aroma agent and another material (such as transition metal particles). When present, the other material may react with the odor (e.g., thiols or mercaptans), relaxing the walls of the matrix and allowing the release of the aroma agent.

[0044] Furthermore, the encapsulant can be configured to release a fragrance in response to gaseous contact with odor particles (i.e., the encapsulant does not need to contact the odor source). In an alternative embodiment, the encapsulant can be configured to release a fragrance in response to direct physical contact with the odor source.

[0045] In some embodiments, the encapsulant comprises a gel / polymer film configured to delay the release of an encapsulated fragrance (or other odor-controlling active substance). In some embodiments, the encapsulant comprises a water-soluble material or other water-triggered material. In other embodiments, the encapsulant may include a material that releases the encapsulated fragrance (or other odor-controlling active substance) in response to a chemical reaction or the presence of oxygen.

[0046] In one or more embodiments, the encapsulated fragrance component is configured to have porosity characteristics. As used herein, the term "porosity characteristics" refers to the characteristic of the encapsulated fragrance component to release at least a portion of the fragrance (e.g., fragrance encapsulated within one or more encapsulants) over time. Specifically, porosity characteristics may refer to the characteristic of the encapsulant to release at least a portion of the fragrance over time.

[0047] As used herein, the term "physical interaction" refers to a physical force applied to a thermoplastic film or bag. Specifically, a physical interaction can refer to the physical manipulation of a thermoplastic film or bag (or a portion thereof), or physical contact between a physical object and a thermoplastic film or bag. For example, a physical interaction can include, but is not limited to, physical tension applied to a thermoplastic film or bag (or a portion thereof), friction applied to a thermoplastic film or bag, or touching a thermoplastic film or bag (e.g., by a user or a waste item).

[0048] As used herein, the terms “laminate,” “laminate,” and “laminate film” refer to the process and final product made by bonding two or more layers of film or other materials together. When used in reference to the bonding of multiple layers of a multilayer film, the term “bond” may be used interchangeably with “laminate” of the layers. According to the method of this disclosure, adjacent layers of a multilayer film are laminated or bonded to each other. This bonding intentionally creates relatively weak bonds between the layers, having a bond strength less than that of the weakest layer of the film. This allows the laminated bond to fail before the film layer and therefore the bond fail.

[0049] The term "laminated product" also includes co-extruded multilayer films comprising one or more tie layers. As a verb, "laminated" means to attach or adhere two or more separately made film articles to each other (e.g., by means of adhesive bonding, pressure bonding, ultrasonic bonding, corona lamination, etc.) to form a multilayer structure. As a noun, "laminated product" refers to a product produced by the attachment or adhesion described above.

[0050] As used herein, the terms "partially discontinuous bonding" or "partially discontinuous lamination" refer to lamination of two or more layers in which the lamination is substantially continuous in the machine direction or transverse direction, but discontinuous in the other direction. Alternatively, partially discontinuous lamination refers to lamination of two or more layers in which the lamination is substantially continuous in the width of the article but discontinuous in the height of the article, or substantially continuous in the height of the article but discontinuous in the width of the article. More specifically, partially discontinuous lamination refers to lamination of two or more layers in which the repeating bonding pattern is interrupted by repeating boundless areas in the machine direction or transverse direction, or simultaneously in both the machine direction and transverse direction. Both partially discontinuous and discontinuous are types of discontinuous bonding (i.e., an incomplete and discontinuous bond between two surfaces).

[0051] In addition to discontinuous bonding, one or more embodiments include incrementally stretching the thermoplastic film. For example, one or more embodiments include incrementally stretching the thermoplastic film using MD ring rolling, TD ring rolling, DD ring rolling, the formation of a stretchable network, or a combination thereof. Incrementally stretching the thermoplastic film using the methods described herein can impart ribs or other structures to the film and increase or otherwise alter one or more of the film's tensile strength, tear resistance, impact resistance, or elasticity. Furthermore, one or more embodiments include a stretching process under ambient or cold (unheated) conditions. This differs significantly from most conventional processes that stretch films under heated conditions. According to one or more embodiments, stretching under ambient or cold conditions can constrain the molecules in the thermoplastic film, making them less easily oriented than under heated conditions. This cold incremental stretching can help provide unexpected results in maintaining or increasing the strength of the thermoplastic film, despite a reduction in dimensions.

[0052] Relatively weak bonding and stretching can be achieved simultaneously using one or more suitable techniques. For example, bonding and stretching can be achieved by pressure (e.g., MD ring rolling, TD ring rolling, spiral or DD ring rolling, stretchable network lamination, or embossing) or by a combination of heat and pressure. Alternatively, the manufacturer can first stretch the film and then bond it using one or more bonding techniques. For example, one or more embodiments may include ultrasonic bonding for light lamination of the film. Alternatively or additionally, an adhesive may be used to laminate the film. Treatment with corona discharge can enhance any of the above methods. In one or more embodiments, the contact surfaces / layers may include an adhesive material to facilitate lamination. Prior to lamination, the separated film may undergo individual processes such as stretching, slitting, coating and printing, and corona treatment, or it may not undergo any individual process.

[0053] As used herein, the term "substantially" in relation to a given parameter, characteristic, or condition means, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, the degree to which a given parameter, characteristic, or condition is satisfied within a range of variation (such as within acceptable manufacturing tolerances). For example, depending on whether a particular parameter, characteristic, or condition is substantially satisfied, it may be satisfied at least 90.0%, at least 95.0%, at least 99.0%, or even at least 99.9%.

[0054] As used herein, the term "flexible" refers to a material capable of flexing or bending (particularly repeatedly flexing or bending), such that these materials are pliable and yieldable in response to externally applied forces. Thus, "flexible" is essentially the opposite in meaning to the terms inflexible, rigid, or unyieldable. Therefore, flexible materials and structures can be modified in shape and structure to adapt to external forces and conform to the shape of objects in contact with them without losing their integrity. According to further prior art materials, webmaterials exhibiting "quasi-elastic" behavior in the direction of applied tension are provided without the use of added conventional elastic materials. As used herein, the term "quasi-elastic" describes the behavior of webmaterials that, when subjected to applied tension, extend in the direction of applied tension and, when the applied tension is released, partially return to their pre-tensioned state.

[0055] As used herein, any relational terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third,” “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” “lower,” “side,” “top,” “bottom,” etc., are for clarity and convenience in understanding this disclosure and the accompanying drawings and do not imply or rely on any particular preference, orientation, or order unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, relational terms may refer to the orientation of multi-layered bags when arranged within a container (e.g., a trash can) for use.

[0056] Membrane material

[0057] First, the thermoplastic material of the film in one or more embodiments may include, but is not limited to, thermoplastic polyolefins, including polyethylene and its copolymers and polypropylene and its copolymers. Olefin-based polymers may include the most common ethylene or propylene-based polymers, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and copolymers such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), ethylene methyl acrylate (EMA), and ethylene acrylic acid (EAA), or blends of such polyolefins.

[0058] Other examples of polymers suitable for use as membranes according to this disclosure may include elastomeric polymers. Suitable elastomeric polymers may also be biodegradable or environmentally degradable. Suitable elastomeric polymers for use in membranes include poly(ethylene-butene), poly(ethylene-hexene), poly(ethylene-octene), poly(ethylene-propylene), poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene), poly(styrene-isoprene-styrene), poly(styrene-ethylene-butene-styrene), poly(ester-ether), poly(ether-amide), poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate), poly(ethylene-methacrylate), poly(ethylene-acrylic acid), oriented poly(ethylene-terephthalate), poly(ethylene-butyl acrylate), polyurethane, poly(ethylene-propylene-diene), ethylene-propylene rubber, nylon, etc.

[0059] Some examples and descriptions below relate to films formed from linear low-density polyethylene. As used herein, the term "linear low-density polyethylene" (LLDPE) is defined as a copolymer of ethylene and a small amount of an olefin containing 4 to 10 carbon atoms, having a density from about 0.910 to about 0.926 and a melt index (MI) from about 0.5 to about 10. For example, some examples herein use octene comonomers, solution-phase LLDPE (MI = 1.1; ρ = 0.920). Other examples use fumed LLDPE, which is hexene fumed LLDPE formulated with slip / AB (MI = 1.0; ρ = 0.920). Still other examples use fumed LLDPE, which is hexene fumed LLDPE formulated with slip / AB (MI = 1.0; ρ = 0.926). It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to LLDPE and may include "high-density polyethylene" (HDPE), "low-density polyethylene" (LDPE), and "very low-density polyethylene" (VLDPE). In fact, films made from any of the aforementioned thermoplastic materials or combinations thereof may be suitable for use with this disclosure.

[0060] Some embodiments of this disclosure may include any flexible or bendable thermoplastic material that can be formed or drawn into a web or film. Furthermore, each thermoplastic film may include a single layer or multiple layers of thermoplastic material, as described below. Figures 1A-1C To describe in more detail: Thermoplastic materials can be opaque, transparent, translucent, or colored. Furthermore, thermoplastic materials can be breathable or impermeable.

[0061] Additional additives that may be included in one or more embodiments include slip agents, anti-blocking agents, voiding agents, or tackifiers. Additionally, one or more embodiments of this disclosure include membranes without voiding agents. Some examples of inorganic voiding agents that can further provide odor control include, but are not limited to, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, barium carbonate, calcium sulfate, magnesium sulfate, barium sulfate, calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, titanium oxide, zinc oxide, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, talc, clay, silica, alumina, mica, glass powder, starch, charcoal, zeolite, and any combination thereof. Organic voiding agents, i.e., polymers immiscible in the main polymer matrix, may also be used. For example, polystyrene can be used as a voiding agent in polyethylene and polypropylene membranes.

[0062] Other additives that may be included in one or more embodiments include natural oils. For example, additives may include thyme oil, peppermint oil, lemongrass oil, tea tree oil, cinnamon bark oil, methyl jasmonate, etc. Other additives may include zinc pyrithione (“ZPT”) and copper pyrithione (“CPT”), which inhibit microbial growth.

[0063] In view of this disclosure, those skilled in the art will understand that manufacturers can use a variety of techniques to form the films or webs used in this disclosure. For example, a manufacturer can form a precursor mixture of a thermoplastic material and one or more additives. The manufacturer can then use conventional planar or casting extrusion or co-extrusion to form a film from the precursor mixture to produce a single-layer, double-layer, or multi-layer film. Alternatively, the manufacturer can use a suitable process, such as a blown film process, to form the film to produce a single-layer, double-layer, or multi-layer film. If required for a given end use, the manufacturer can orient the film by trapping bubbles, using a tenter frame, or other suitable processes. Additionally, the manufacturer may optionally anneal the film thereafter.

[0064] An optional part of the membrane fabrication process is a procedure known as "orientation." The orientation of a polymer refers to its molecular organization, that is, the orientation of molecules relative to each other. Similarly, the orientation process is the process of applying directionality (orientation) to the arrangement of polymers in a membrane. Orientation is used to impart desired properties to the membrane, including making extruded membranes more robust (higher tensile strength). Depending on whether the membrane is made by extrusion into a planar membrane or by blown into a tubular membrane, the orientation process may require different procedures. This is related to the different physical properties of membranes produced by the two conventional membrane fabrication processes (extrusion and blown). Generally, blown membranes tend to have greater stiffness and toughness. In contrast, extruded membranes typically offer the advantages of greater membrane transparency and uniformity of thickness and flatness, generally allowing for the use of a wider range of polymers and the production of higher quality membranes.

[0065] When a membrane is stretched in a single direction (uniaxial orientation), the resulting membrane may exhibit strength and stiffness along the stretching direction, but may be weaker in the other direction (i.e., across the stretching direction), often cracking when flexed or stretched. To overcome this limitation, biaxial or two-way orientation can be used to distribute the membrane's strength mass more evenly in both directions. Most biaxial orientation processes use equipment that stretches the membrane sequentially, first in one direction and then in the other.

[0066] In one or more embodiments, the film of this disclosure is a blown film or an extruded film. Blown and extruded films are formed by extrusion. The extruder used can be a conventional extruder using a die, which will provide the desired specifications. Several useful extruders are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,814,135, 4,857,600, 5,076,988, and 5,153,382; each of these U.S. Patents is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Examples of various extruders that can be used to produce the films used in this disclosure may be a single-screw type improved with blown film dies, air rings, and continuous take-off equipment.

[0067] In one or more embodiments, the manufacturer can use multiple extruders to supply different melt streams, and a feed block can sequentially place these melt streams into different channels of a multichannel die. Multiple extruders can allow the manufacturer to form multilayer films with multiple layers of different compositions. Such multilayer films can then be laminated discontinuously with another film.

[0068] In the blown film process, the die can be an upright cylinder with a circular opening. Rollers pull the molten plastic upwards away from the die. As the film travels upwards, an air ring cools it. An air outlet forces compressed air into the center of the extruded circular profile, creating air bubbles. The air can cause the extruded circular cross-section to expand by a multiple of the die diameter. This ratio is called the "blow-up ratio." When using the blown film process, manufacturers can fold the film into a double layer. Alternatively, manufacturers can cut and fold the film, or cut and leave it undone.

[0069] In any case, in one or more embodiments, the extrusion process may orient the polymer chains of the blown film. Specifically, the extrusion process may orient the polymer chains of the blown film primarily along the machine direction. Orientation of the polymer chains can result in increased strength in the oriented direction. As used herein, primarily oriented along a particular direction means that the polymer chains are oriented more along that particular direction than another direction. However, it should be understood that a film primarily oriented along a particular direction can still include polymer chains oriented in directions other than the particular direction. Therefore, in one or more embodiments, the initial film or starting film (the film prior to being stretched, bonded, or laminated according to the principles described herein) may include a blown film primarily oriented along the machine direction.

[0070] The process of inflating tubular feedstock or bubbles can further orient the polymer chains of the blown film. In particular, the inflating process can result in biaxial orientation of the polymer chains of the blown film. Although biaxially oriented, in one or more embodiments, the polymer chains of the blown film are oriented primarily along the machine direction (i.e., more oriented along the machine direction than in the transverse direction).

[0071] The membranes of one or more embodiments of this disclosure may have an initial specification between about 0.1 mil and about 20 mils, suitably from about 0.2 mils to about 4 mils, suitably in the range of about 0.3 mils to about 2 mils, suitably from about 0.6 mils to about 1.25 mils, suitably from about 0.9 mils to about 1.1 mils, suitably from about 0.3 mils to about 0.7 mils, and suitably from about 0.3 mils to about 0.5 mils. Furthermore, the initial specifications of the membranes of one or more embodiments of this disclosure may be inconsistent. Therefore, the initial specifications of the membranes of one or more embodiments of this disclosure may vary along the length and / or width of the membrane.

[0072] First, the one or more layers of film described herein can comprise any flexible or bendable material, including thermoplastic materials, and can be formed or drawn into webs or films. As mentioned above, the film includes multilayer thermoplastic films. Each individual film layer can itself comprise a single layer or multiple layers. In other words, each individual layer of a multilayer film can each comprise multiple laminated layers. Such layers can be bonded together significantly more tightly than the bond provided by intentionally weak discontinuous bonding in the final multilayer film. Both tight and relatively weak lamination can be achieved by mechanically pressure-bonded layers, adhesive-bonded layers, thermal and pressure bonding, coating, extrusion coating, and combinations thereof. Adjacent sublayers of individual layers can be co-extruded. Co-extrusion results in a tight bond such that the bond strength is greater than the tear resistance of the resulting laminate (i.e., instead of allowing adjacent layers to peel apart through the breakage of the laminated joint, the film will tear).

[0073] The following discussion, with reference to the accompanying drawings, provides further details regarding one or more embodiments. One or more embodiments of this disclosure include products made of or having a thermoplastic film and including encapsulated fragrance components. Such products include, for example, grocery bags, garbage bags, packaging bags and packaging materials, feminine hygiene products, baby diapers, adult incontinence products, or other products. However, for ease of description, the drawings and much of the following disclosure focus on films and bags. It will be further understood that the teachings and disclosure are equally applicable to other products. For example, some embodiments of this disclosure include nonwoven fabrics instead of the films described herein. Additional embodiments of this disclosure include other materials that replace the films described herein.

[0074] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figures 1A-1C This is a partial cross-sectional view of a thermoplastic film that can be used in one or more embodiments. For example, Figure 1A A thermoplastic film 100a having a single first layer 110a is shown. In other embodiments, such as Figure 1B As illustrated, the thermoplastic film 100b may have two layers (i.e., a double-layer film). Specifically, the thermoplastic film 100b may include a first layer 110a and a second layer 110b. In this embodiment, the first layer 110a and the second layer 110b may optionally include different grades of thermoplastic materials and / or include different additives (including polymer additives). In other embodiments, such as... Figure 1C As shown, the thermoplastic film 100c may include three layers (i.e., a three-layer film). Specifically, the thermoplastic film 100c may include a first layer 110a, a second layer 110b, and a third layer 110c. In other embodiments, the thermoplastic film may include more than three layers. In one or more embodiments, the layers of the thermoplastic film (e.g., one of the thermoplastic films 100a-100c) are co-extruded.

[0075] Figure 2 A side sectional view of a thermoplastic bag 200 with dual fragrance odor control based on fragrance encapsulation, according to one or more embodiments, is shown. Figure 2 As shown, each of the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204 of the thermoplastic bag 200 includes a single layer of thermoplastic film 206. The thermoplastic film 206 of the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204 may include any of the thermoplastic films described above. In one or more embodiments, each of the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204 of the thermoplastic bag 200 includes a multilayer thermoplastic film, which will be referred to Figures 6A-6B Let's discuss this in more detail.

[0076] In addition, such as Figure 2As shown, the thermoplastic bag 200 includes a first fragrance component disposed as a first strip 208 on a first sidewall 202 and a second sidewall 204. As described above, in one or more embodiments, the first fragrance component of the first strip 208 includes a pure oil (or other non-encapsulated compound) applied directly to the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204. Furthermore, the first fragrance component includes a scented fragrance. Although not shown, some embodiments include co-extruding the first fragrance component with the first sidewall 202 as described above (i.e., embedding the fragrance control component as an additive into the thermoplastic film forming the first sidewall 202 during extrusion).

[0077] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the thermoplastic bag 200 includes a second fragrance component—encapsulated fragrance component 212—disposed as a second strip 210 on the first and second sidewalls 204. Encapsulated fragrance component 212 includes fragrances encapsulated within a plurality of encapsulants, such as fragrance 216 encapsulated within encapsulant 214 (or more specifically, a portion of the fragrance—e.g., one or more molecules or particles). Although not shown, some embodiments include co-extruding the encapsulated fragrance component 212 with the first and second sidewalls 202 and 204 as described above (i.e., embedding the encapsulated fragrance component 212 as an additive into the thermoplastic film forming the second sidewall 204 during extrusion).

[0078] As described above, in one or more embodiments, the fragrance encapsulating fragrance component 212 includes the same fragrance as the fragrance associated with the first fragrance component. In some embodiments, the fragrance encapsulating fragrance component 212 includes a fragrance that is different from but related to the fragrance associated with the first fragrance component (e.g., both include different fragrances within the same scent family or group). In still other embodiments, the fragrance encapsulating fragrance component 212 includes fragrances that are different from and unrelated to the fragrance associated with the first fragrance component (e.g., they include different fragrances that are part of different scent families or groups).

[0079] Furthermore, as described above, in one or more embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component 212 is configured to delay the release of the fragrance from the plurality of encapsulants. For example, in one or more embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component 212 retains the fragrance within the plurality of encapsulants until activated to release the fragrance in response to a physical interaction applied to the thermoplastic bag 200. More specifically, the encapsulating fragrance component 212 may retain the fragrance within the plurality of encapsulants until activated to release the fragrance in response to a physical interaction applied to the first sidewall 202 or the second sidewall 204 or a portion of the first sidewall 202 or the second sidewall 204 adjacent to or contacting the second strip 210. For example, in some embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component 212 may be activated to release the fragrance in response to physical tension or friction applied to the thermoplastic bag 200 (or more specifically, to the first sidewall 202 or the second sidewall 204 or a portion of the first sidewall 202 or the second sidewall 204 adjacent to or contacting the second strip 210).

[0080] Therefore, in one or more embodiments, the thermoplastic bag 200 is configured to provide extended odor control. For example, in some embodiments, a first fragrance component provided as a first strip 208 begins to evaporate before the encapsulated fragrance component 212 is activated to release its respective fragrance. In fact, the first fragrance component (e.g., as a neutral oil) may begin to evaporate after being applied to the thermoplastic bag 200 (e.g., immediately after application or when the thermoplastic bag 200 is opened for use). Thus, the first fragrance component (including its respective fragrance) may be depleted before any odor source deposits into the thermoplastic bag 200 or otherwise in the early stages of using the thermoplastic bag 200. By including the encapsulated fragrance component 212, the thermoplastic bag 200 can be configured to provide additional odor control after the strength of the first fragrance component weakens or becomes ineffective. In fact, by retaining its respective fragrance until activation, the encapsulated fragrance component 212 can provide additional fragrance for odor control after the first fragrance component is depleted.

[0081] As briefly described above, the first fragrance component is disposed as a first strip 208 on the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204, and the encapsulated fragrance component 212 is disposed as a second strip 210 on the first sidewall 202 and the second sidewall 204. Figure 2 As shown, the first strip 208 and the second strip 210 can be disposed on the inner surface of the respective sidewall (i.e., the surface of the sidewall facing the opening 218 of the thermoplastic bag 200). However, in some embodiments, the first strip 208 and / or the second strip 210 are disposed on the outer surface of the respective sidewall. Furthermore, although... Figure 2A first strip 208 and a second strip 210 are shown located near the top of the respective sidewalls, but in one or more embodiments, the strips may be located at a lower position.

[0082] although Figure 2 The first fragrance component and encapsulated fragrance component 212 are shown in strip form, but in other embodiments, the first fragrance component and / or encapsulated fragrance component may be applied to the thermoplastic bag 200 in other forms. For example, the first fragrance component and / or encapsulated fragrance component may be applied in dots, stripes, or full-surface application.

[0083] Furthermore, although the first fragrance component has been discussed above as a pure oil or other unencapsulated compound, in one or more embodiments, the first fragrance component includes an additional encapsulated fragrance component. Specifically, the first fragrance component may include an additional encapsulated fragrance component having fragrance encapsulated within an additional plurality of encapsulants. The additional encapsulated fragrance component may be configured to delay the release of its respective fragrance.

[0084] In some embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component 212 (or the first fragrance component, when including additional encapsulating fragrance components) is configured to have porosity characteristics. In other words, the encapsulating fragrance component 212 can be configured for time-based activation, such that multiple encapsulants release fragrance over time without any other trigger causing fragrance release. For example, in some embodiments, the multiple encapsulants are highly porous, such that a large amount of fragrance is released within a short period of time (e.g., the multiple encapsulants release fragrance relatively rapidly). In other embodiments, the multiple encapsulants are not highly porous, such that a small amount of fragrance is released within a short period of time (e.g., the multiple encapsulants release fragrance relatively slowly). In some embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component 212 is configured for time-based activation and activation in response to another trigger. Thus, for example, the multiple encapsulants can be configured to release fragrance over time and then release the remainder of the fragrance in response to a physical interaction applied to the thermoplastic bag 200. In some embodiments, the multiple encapsulants are impermeable (i.e., non-porous), such that the multiple encapsulants retain all encapsulated fragrance until otherwise activated.

[0085] As described above, in one or more embodiments, the encapsulated fragrance component is configured to delay the release of the fragrance. For example, a plurality of encapsulants sealing the fragrance component may be configured to retain the fragrance until activated in response to physical interactions applied to a thermoplastic film or bag on which the encapsulated fragrance component is disposed, thereby releasing the fragrance. Figures 3A-3DThe activation of encapsulated fragrance components in response to physical interactions according to one or more embodiments is illustrated (i.e., activation of multiple encapsulants). Although Figures 3A-3D The activation of the fragrance component encapsulated in the case of a thermoplastic bag is illustrated; however, it should be understood that the activation of the fragrance component encapsulated can be carried out in a manner similar to that of a general thermoplastic film (including other products made of or having a thermoplastic film).

[0086] Figure 3A A thermoplastic bag 300 encapsulating fragrance components is shown. For example, Figure 3A A portion of the encapsulating fragrance component 302 disposed on a segment 304 of a thermoplastic bag 300 is shown (e.g., segment 304 includes a portion of the inner surface of the thermoplastic bag 300). See above reference. Figure 2 The portion of the encapsulated fragrance component 302 discussed originally included multiple encapsulating agents for encapsulating the fragrance.

[0087] Specifically, Figure 3A The illustration shows a scenario where a thermoplastic bag 300 is placed inside a waste container 310. When the thermoplastic bag 300 is placed in the waste container 310, a portion 304 of the thermoplastic bag 300 can be tightened (e.g., to make the opening of the thermoplastic bag 300 fit around the edge of the waste container 310). Figure 3A As shown, in response to the tension, the encapsulant (e.g., encapsulant 312) from the portion encapsulating fragrance component 302 can be activated to release the fragrance. As will be discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, one or more encapsulants from the portion encapsulating fragrance component 302 can remain unactivated, thereby retaining the fragrance.

[0088] Figure 3B A thermoplastic bag 300 is shown inside a waste container 310. Specifically, Figure 3B The thermoplastic bag 300 is shown when an object 320 (e.g., trash) is placed inside it. Figure 3B As shown, the object 320 comes into contact with (e.g., by collision, friction, or other means) the portion 322 of the thermoplastic bag 300 when it is placed inside.

[0089] In response to contact between the object 320 and a segment 322 of the thermoplastic bag 300, an encapsulant (e.g., encapsulant 326) from a portion of the encapsulating fragrance control component 324 disposed on the segment 322 can be activated to release the fragrance. Specifically, by contacting the segment 322 of the thermoplastic bag 300, the object 320 can apply a frictional or other force to the segment 322, which causes the encapsulant to be activated.

[0090] In fact, in one or more embodiments, friction is sufficient to activate the encapsulant to release the fragrance. For example, as described above, in one or more embodiments, the encapsulant encapsulating the fragrance components is brittle when dry. Therefore, the encapsulant is configured to activate (e.g., rupture) to release the fragrance when friction is applied (e.g., by contact with a portion of a thermoplastic bag on which the encapsulant is disposed).

[0091] Figure 3C Thermoplastic bag 300 in waste container 310 is also shown. Specifically, Figure 3C The thermoplastic bag 300 is shown in the following configuration: multiple objects 330 (e.g., trash) within the thermoplastic bag 300 are pushed downwards (e.g., when a user pushes downwards to make more space in the thermoplastic bag 300). When the multiple objects 330 are pushed downwards, a segment 332 of the thermoplastic bag 300 can be tightened. In response to the tightening applied to the segment 332 of the thermoplastic bag 300, an encapsulant (e.g., encapsulant 336) from a portion of the encapsulating fragrance component 334 disposed on the segment 332 can be activated to release the fragrance.

[0092] In addition to being activated in response to tension applied to the segment 332 of the thermoplastic bag 300, the encapsulant disposed thereon can also be activated in response to friction applied to the segment 332 due to a downward force applied to the plurality of objects 330. Specifically, when pushed downward, the plurality of objects 330 may contact (e.g., rub or slide) the segment 332 of the thermoplastic bag 300, resulting in a frictional force being applied to the segment 332. Therefore, the encapsulant from the portion of the encapsulating fragrance component 334 disposed on the segment 332 can be activated to release the fragrance.

[0093] Figure 3D Thermoplastic bag 300 in waste container 310 is also shown. Specifically, Figure 3D The illustration shows a thermoplastic bag 300 being lifted from a waste container 310 for disposal (e.g., when the thermoplastic bag 300 is full and ready to be replaced). When the thermoplastic bag 300 is lifted from the waste container 310, a segment 340 of the thermoplastic bag 300 can be tightened. In response to the tightening applied to the segment 340 of the thermoplastic bag 300, an encapsulant (e.g., encapsulant 344) from a portion of the encapsulating fragrance component 342 disposed on the segment 340 can be activated to release the fragrance.

[0094] In addition to being activated in response to tension applied to the segment 340 of the thermoplastic bag 300, the encapsulant disposed thereon can also be activated in response to friction applied to the segment 340 due to lifting from the waste container 310. Specifically, when the thermoplastic bag 300 is lifted out of the waste container 310, the segment 340 of the thermoplastic bag 300 may rub against the waste container 310 or against the waste inside the thermoplastic bag 300, resulting in a frictional force applied to the segment 340. Therefore, the encapsulant from the portion of the encapsulating fragrance component 342 disposed on the segment 340 can be activated to release the fragrance.

[0095] although Figures 3A-3D The specific physical interactions that cause the encapsulant disposed on the thermoplastic bag to activate in order to release the fragrance are illustrated; however, it should be understood that the encapsulant may be activated in response to various additional physical interactions. For example, in some embodiments, the thermoplastic bag 300 is configured such that the encapsulant disposed thereon is activated in response to opening the bag for use (e.g., placing it in the waste container 310) or closing the bag for replacement. For illustration, in some embodiments, a portion of the encapsulating fragrance component may be disposed on various creases created due to folding the thermoplastic bag 300 for placement in packaging. Thus, in response to tension or other physical interactions applied when the thermoplastic bag 300 is unfolded, at least some of the encapsulant on the portion encapsulating the fragrance component may be activated to release the fragrance.

[0096] also, Figures 3A-3D An example is shown in which an encapsulant disposed on a segment of a thermoplastic bag 300 is activated to release a fragrance. However, it should be understood that the thermoplastic bag 300 can be configured such that the encapsulant disposed on a given segment is activated under multiple conditions (e.g., a first set of encapsulants is activated at a first time, and a second set of encapsulants is activated at a second time). In fact, in one or more embodiments, the thermoplastic bag 300 is configured such that the encapsulant disposed on a given segment can be activated at different points throughout the use of the thermoplastic bag 300. However, in some embodiments (e.g., as...), Figures 3A-3D As shown, the thermoplastic bag 300 is configured such that the encapsulants disposed on the various sections are activated at various points throughout the use of the thermoplastic bag 300. Therefore, the thermoplastic bag 300 can be configured such that at least some of the encapsulants disposed on some sections are activated throughout the use of the thermoplastic bag 300, enabling the thermoplastic bag 300 to provide improved (e.g., more durable) odor control.

[0097] Despite Figures 3A-3DNot shown, but the thermoplastic bag 300 also includes a first fragrance component disposed thereon. Therefore, the thermoplastic bag 300 provides dual fragrance odor control. As described above, the first fragrance component may include absolute oils or other unencapsulated compounds, allowing the encapsulated fragrance component to provide additional odor control when the strength of the first fragrance component weakens. Before the first fragrance component is depleted, if the encapsulated fragrance component is activated, the fragrances of the two related fragrances can be mixed to produce a new fragrance, until the first fragrance component is depleted.

[0098] However, in some embodiments, the first fragrance component includes an additional encapsulating fragrance component. Therefore, the encapsulating fragrance component and the additional encapsulating fragrance component can work synergistically to provide odor control in response to different activation triggers (e.g., in response to physical interactions with different segments of the thermoplastic bag 300).

[0099] Configuring an encapsulating agent that encapsulates fragrance components to release the fragrance in response to physical interactions applied to a thermoplastic film allows for release in a variety of ways (in addition to the above references). Figure 2 (Outside of the strips discussed) the encapsulating fragrance components are arranged on a thermoplastic film. Figures 4-6B Exemplary arrangements of encapsulated fragrance components according to one or more embodiments are shown. Figures 3A-3D Same, Figures 4-6B The illustration shows the encapsulation of fragrance components arranged on a thermoplastic bag, although the encapsulation of fragrance components can be similarly arranged on a thermoplastic film or other products made of or having a thermoplastic film.

[0100] Figure 4 A side sectional view of a thermoplastic bag 400 having a first fragrance component and an encapsulating fragrance component disposed thereon, according to one or more embodiments, is shown. Figure 4 As shown, each of the first sidewall 402 and the second sidewall 404 of the thermoplastic bag 400 includes a single layer of thermoplastic film 406. The thermoplastic film 406 of the first sidewall 402 and the second sidewall 404 may include any of the thermoplastic films described above. In one or more embodiments, each of the first sidewall 402 and the second sidewall 404 of the thermoplastic bag 400 includes a multilayer thermoplastic film, which will be referred to Figures 6A-6B Let's discuss this in more detail.

[0101] In addition, such as Figure 4As shown, the thermoplastic bag 400 includes a first fragrance component 408 disposed to cover the inner surface of the folded edge of the bag 400 and an encapsulating fragrance component 410 disposed to cover the inner surfaces of the first sidewall 402 and the second sidewall 404. However, in one or more embodiments, the first fragrance component 408 and / or the encapsulating fragrance component 410 are disposed on the outer surface of the respective sidewalls. Furthermore, some embodiments include co-extruding the first fragrance component 408 with the first sidewall 402 and the second sidewall 404 as described above and / or co-extruding the encapsulating fragrance component 410 with the first sidewall 402 and the second sidewall 404 (i.e., embedding the first fragrance component 408 and / or the encapsulating fragrance component 410 into the thermoplastic film forming the first sidewall 402 and the second sidewall 404 during extrusion). By arranging the first fragrance component 408 and the encapsulating fragrance component 410 to cover the entire usable inner surface, the thermoplastic bag 400 provides a more uniform distribution of the first fragrance component and the encapsulating fragrance component to provide more significant odor control. In some implementations, covering the entire available surface allows a larger amount of encapsulated fragrance components to be applied to the thermoplastic bag 400.

[0102] In some embodiments, the first fragrance component 408 and / or the encapsulating fragrance component 410 are configured to cover the entire inner surface (or outer surface) smaller than the respective sidewall, as referenced above. Figure 2 As suggested. Figure 4 In one embodiment, the first fragrance component 408 is disposed near the opening of the bag 400 so that the user will notice the first fragrance when initially opening the bag 400. The encapsulated fragrance component 410 is disposed along the interior of the side wall of the bag so that the encapsulated fragrance component 410 will be activated when the waste enters the inner side wall of the bag 400 and interacts with the inner side wall of the bag 400.

[0103] Furthermore, despite Figure 4 A thermoplastic bag 400 is shown having a first fragrance component 408 disposed on the sidewalls and an encapsulating fragrance component 410. However, the thermoplastic bag 400 may have the first fragrance component 408 and / or the encapsulating fragrance component 410 applied in various other ways. For example, in some embodiments, the thermoplastic bag 400 has the first fragrance component 408 applied to the upper portion of the thermoplastic bag 400 (e.g., on the upper portion of one or both of the first sidewall 402 and the second sidewall 404). Furthermore, the thermoplastic bag 400 has the encapsulating fragrance component 410 applied to the lower portion of the thermoplastic bag 400 (e.g., on the lower portion of one or both of the first sidewall 402 and the second sidewall 404).

[0104] Figure 5A side sectional view is shown of a thermoplastic bag 500 having a first fragrance component and an encapsulating fragrance component disposed thereon, according to one or more embodiments. Figure 5 As shown, the thermoplastic bag 500 includes a first fragrance component 508 disposed directly below a first fold 502 and a second fold 504, and an encapsulated fragrance component 510 disposed within the first fold 502 and the second fold 504 of the thermoplastic bag 500. In one or more embodiments, the first fold 502 and / or the second fold 504 are configured to be impermeable. Optionally, the encapsulated fragrance component 510 can exit through drawstring holes in the folds 502, 504.

[0105] By providing encapsulated fragrance component 510 within the first fold 502 and the second fold 504, as referenced Figures 6A-6B To discuss in more detail, the thermoplastic bag 500 may include fragrance components that are unfriendly to consumers (e.g., visually unappealing, sticky, oily, powdery, etc.). Specifically, positioning the first fragrance component or the encapsulated fragrance component within the folded edge helps ensure that the user does not come into direct contact with the first fragrance component or the encapsulated fragrance component.

[0106] Furthermore, by providing the encapsulating fragrance component 510, the thermoplastic bag 500 can be configured to activate the encapsulating agent in response to various physical interactions to release the encapsulated fragrance. For example, as... Figure 5 As shown, the thermoplastic bag 500 includes a drawstring 506 located within a first fold 502 and a second fold 504. Therefore, the encapsulant encapsulating the fragrance component 510 can be configured to delay the release of the fragrance until activated through physical interaction with the drawstring 506. For example, as the drawstring 506 moves through the folds 502 and 504, the drawstring 506 can induce friction within the folds 502 and 504. In response to this friction, the encapsulant encapsulating the fragrance component 510 can be activated to release the fragrance.

[0107] Furthermore, while many embodiments described herein include a first unencapsulated fragrance and a second encapsulated fragrance, the invention is not limited thereto. In fact, one or more embodiments include more than two different fragrance components, each configured to provide fragrance at different times or in response to different triggers or activations. For example, Figure 5The thermoplastic bag 500 is shown to include an additional encapsulating fragrance component 512 located at the bottom of the bag. As described above, when the thermoplastic bag 500 is opened, the first fragrance component 508 can provide fragrance / odor reduction, when activated in response to pulling the drawstring (i.e., during removal and disposal of the thermoplastic bag 200), the encapsulating fragrance component 510 can provide fragrance / odor, and when activated in response to waste being placed in the thermoplastic bag 500, the additional encapsulating fragrance component 512 can provide fragrance / odor.

[0108] Furthermore, each fragrance component (508, 510, 512) can be combined to provide a varied fragrance experience. For example, the first fragrance component 508 may include lemon absolute, the encapsulated fragrance component 510 may include a fully encapsulated peppermint fragrance, and the additional encapsulated fragrance component 512 may include an encapsulated fragrance triggered by eucalyptus water. Thus, each fragrance component (508, 510, 512) can provide a different scent in response to different actions (opening of the bag, the force generated by activation of the drawstring, water entering the bottom of the bag in relation to trash placed inside).

[0109] Figure 6A This is a side sectional view of thermoplastic bag 600. Figure 6B yes Figure 6A An enlarged side sectional view of thermoplastic bag 600. See also... Figure 6A and Figure 6B Each of the first sidewall 602 and the second sidewall 604 of the thermoplastic bag 600 includes multiple layers of thermoplastic film. Specifically, each of the first sidewall 602 and the second sidewall 604 includes a first film 606 and a second film 608. The thermoplastic bag 600 also includes a first fragrance component 610 disposed on one or more second inner films 608 and an encapsulating fragrance component 612 disposed between the first film 606 and the second film 608. When disposed within a container (e.g., a trash can), the first film 606 (collectively referred to herein as “first film 606”) of each of the first sidewall 602 and the second sidewall 604 of the thermoplastic bag 600 may face (e.g., be oriented adjacent to and close to) the container, and the second film 608 (collectively referred to herein as “second film 608”) of each of the first sidewall 602 and the second sidewall 604 may face (e.g., at least partially define) the interior of the thermoplastic bag 600.

[0110] The first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608 may comprise membranes such as any of the membranes described above. As briefly described above, the first fragrance component 610 and the encapsulated fragrance component 612 may be disposed on one or more of the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608 on their respective sidewalls. Specifically, the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608 may be partially supplied with the first fragrance component 610 and partially supplied with the encapsulated fragrance component 612. As shown, the encapsulated fragrance component 612 is disposed between the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608. As used herein, when referring to the encapsulated fragrance component 612 and the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608, the term "between" means that the encapsulated fragrance component 612 is at least partially disposed within the space separating at least a portion of the first membrane 606 and at least a portion of the second membrane 608. Therefore, the encapsulated fragrance component 612 may be disposed on one or more of the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608 (e.g., on the side of the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608 facing the space separating the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608 from each other). Furthermore, the encapsulating fragrance component 612 may be at least partially disposed in (e.g., at least partially embedded in) one or more of the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608.

[0111] In some embodiments, the first fragrance component 610 and / or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 may at least substantially completely span the region between the first film 606 and the second film 608. In other words, the first fragrance component 610 and / or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 may at least substantially completely span the length and width of the first film 606 and the second film 608. In other embodiments, the first fragrance component 610 and / or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 may be disposed only along a portion of the first film 606 and the second film 608. In other words, the first fragrance component 610 and / or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 may not be continuous and may only span a portion of the region between the first film 606 and the second film 608. In yet another embodiment, in addition to being disposed between the first film 606 and the second film 608, the first fragrance component 610 or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 is also included in the first film 606 and the second film 608 (by being included in the master batch used to form the first film 606 and the second film 608).

[0112] In some embodiments, the first sidewall 602 and the second sidewall 604 include an air gap 614 between the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608, which works in conjunction with encapsulating the fragrance component 612. In one or more embodiments, the air gap 614 provides a means of capturing odors. For example, odors can enter the air gap 614 and be at least partially captured within it. Thus, the air gap 614 can reduce or prevent odors from penetrating the outer membrane (i.e., the first membrane 606) of the thermoplastic bag 600. Furthermore, one or more embodiments include encapsulating the fragrance component 612 within the air gap 614. Since the fragrance must first penetrate the inner membrane (i.e., the second membrane 608), having the fragrance component 612 encapsulated within the air gap 614 can allow for a further delay in odor control. Additionally, one or more embodiments involve using the air gap 614 to alter the pH of odorous substances and mitigate the formation of odor-causing agents. In some embodiments, for example when the encapsulated fragrance component 612 is activated by moisture, moisture (e.g., water vapor particles) can enter the air gap 614 to activate the encapsulated fragrance component 612.

[0113] Air gap 614 provides an area for placing encapsulated fragrance component 612, which conceals the encapsulated fragrance component 612. Therefore, one or more embodiments include encapsulated fragrance components that are unsuitable for use in the unconcealed portion of the bag. For example, the encapsulated fragrance component 612 between the first film 606 and the second film 608 may include a fragrance component lacking aesthetically pleasing features typically expected by consumers. In another embodiment, the encapsulated fragrance component 612 includes negative effects on the consumer, such as skin irritation, dust inhalation problems, or other negative effects when combined with consumer interaction. In yet another embodiment, the encapsulated fragrance component 612 is disposed in a wet (i.e., liquid) application, which could have negative effects on the user of the bag. Air gap 614 can prevent the user from touching or approaching such a wet fragrance component.

[0114] Additionally, the ability to place fragrance components between layers helps maintain synergy. For example, the ability to place the first fragrance component and / or encapsulated fragrance component in the air gap 614 between the first membrane 606 and the second membrane 608 can facilitate higher levels of fragrance component dosage without exposing the user to an oily (or other undesirable) sensation inside the bag.

[0115] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the placement of the first fragrance component 610 and / or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 can be selected based on the position of the odor particles relative to the thermoplastic bag 600. For example, the first fragrance component 610 and / or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 can be disposed on the first film 606 and the second film 608 in the bottom region of the thermoplastic bag 600 (e.g., the portion of the bag most likely to be exposed to odor molecules). Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more substances of the first fragrance component 610 and / or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 can be selected based on the position of the first fragrance component 610 and / or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 relative to the thermoplastic bag 600.

[0116] like Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the inner surface 616d of the thermoplastic bag 600 may have a first surface area. In some embodiments, the inner surface 616d is the only surface on which the first fragrance component is applied. Based on the disclosure herein, it will be understood that the thermoplastic bag 600 includes additional surfaces 616b and 616c (i.e., the surfaces of the first film 606 and the second film 608 facing each other and forming an air gap 614). Therefore, in one or more embodiments, the thermoplastic bag 600 may have a first fragrance component 610 and / or an encapsulated fragrance component 612 applied to a surface area greater than the total surface area of ​​the inner layer of the thermoplastic bag 600 (i.e., by applying the first fragrance component 610 and / or the encapsulated fragrance component 612 to surfaces 616a, 616b, and / or 616c).

[0117] In one or more embodiments, the encapsulated fragrance component 612 may include a bonding layer. In other words, the encapsulated fragrance component 612 may at least partially bond the first film 606 to the second film 608. For example, the encapsulated fragrance component 612 or the carrier used for encapsulating the fragrance component 612 may include one or more of adhesives, glues, tackifiers, tapes, or any other known materials for bonding films together.

[0118] Despite Figures 6A-6B Not specifically shown, but in one or more embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component 612 is disposed at specific locations between the thermoplastic film layers of the thermoplastic bag 600 (e.g., between the first film 606 and the second film 608). For example, in some embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component 612 is disposed between the thermoplastic film layers in one or more folds of the thermoplastic bag 600. Therefore, the thermoplastic bag 600 can provide additional odor control near the top of the thermoplastic bag 600, for example, when the thermoplastic bag 600 is stretched at the top to be placed in a waste container, or when the thermoplastic bag 600 is closed for disposal.

[0119] While the above discussion has discussed thermoplastic films and bags having a first fragrance component and a second encapsulating fragrance component disposed thereon, in some embodiments, the thermoplastic film and bag may have one or more additional fragrance components disposed thereon. For example, in some embodiments, the thermoplastic film or bag includes a third fragrance component disposed thereon—an additional encapsulating fragrance component. The additional encapsulating fragrance component may include additional encapsulants for encapsulating the fragrance. The fragrance of the additional encapsulating fragrance component may include the same fragrance, a different but related fragrance, or a different and unrelated fragrance compared to the fragrance of the first fragrance component and / or the encapsulating fragrance component. In embodiments where the fragrance of the additional encapsulating fragrance component includes a fragrance different from that of the first fragrance component and / or the encapsulating fragrance component, the thermoplastic film or bag provides a multi-fragrance experience, wherein the fragrance provided by the thermoplastic film or bag changes over time and / or with the user's interaction with the thermoplastic film or bag.

[0120] In some embodiments, in addition to the first fragrance component and the encapsulating fragrance component, the thermoplastic film or bag may also include one or more other forms of encapsulated odor control components. As used herein, the terms "encapsulated odor control component" and "odor control component" refer to a structure or compound comprising one or more encapsulants and an odor-controlling active substance encapsulated within said one or more encapsulants. As used herein, the term "odor-controlling active substance" refers to a composition that affects (e.g., alters and / or masks) odors in at least one manner. For example, an odor-controlling active substance may absorb (e.g., odorous odors), adsorb, and / or may include fragrance materials. Furthermore, an odor-controlling active substance may mask (e.g., mask) and / or neutralize odors. In other words, the term "odor-controlling active substance" may refer to a broader class of compositions that can be used for odor control, including fragrances. As used herein, the term "neutralize" or any derivative thereof refers to the ability of a compound or product to reduce or eliminate odor compounds. Odor neutralization may be partial, affecting only some odor compounds in a given environment, or affecting only a portion of the odor compounds. Odor compounds can be neutralized by chemical reactions that produce new chemical entities, by multivalent chelation, by chelation, by association, or by any other interaction that makes the odor compound less odorous or odorless. For example, in some embodiments, odor-controlling active substances include oxidizing chemicals (e.g., peroxides, hypochlorous acid, chlorine, ozone, sodium perborate, etc.). In some embodiments, odor-controlling active substances include antimicrobial agents. For example, odor-controlling active substances may include zinc pyrithione (“ZPT”) and / or copper pyrithione (“CPT”). In some embodiments, odor-controlling active substances include gas-phase antimicrobial agents. For example, odor-controlling active substances may contain essential oils (e.g., thymol, lemongrass, tea tree, etc.), chlorine dioxide, and / or ethylene oxide. Furthermore, odor-controlling active materials may include one or more desiccant materials (e.g., hygroscopic substances such as calcium oxide or silica gel, which have a high affinity for water and are used as desiccants), deodorants (i.e., deodorizing compositions that deodorize unpleasant odors such as those associated with activated nitrogen compounds, activated sulfur compounds, etc.), and functional nanoparticles. In yet another embodiment, odor-controlling active materials may include trapping agents or adsorbents / sorbents (e.g., zeolites, activated carbon, etc.).

[0121] In one or more embodiments, the additional encapsulated fragrance component or encapsulated odor control component is configured to activate in response to an activation trigger different from that of the encapsulated fragrance component (e.g., such that they do not release their respective fragrance or odor control active substances simultaneously). For example, the additional encapsulated fragrance component or encapsulated odor control component may be configured to activate in response to additional physical interactions applied to the thermoplastic film or bag (e.g., additional tension or friction applied to the thermoplastic film or bag). In other words, the encapsulated fragrance component and the additional encapsulated fragrance component or encapsulated odor control component may be configured to have different encapsulant strengths, such that they are activated in stages.

[0122] According to one embodiment, a structurally elastic membrane (SELF) process can be used to produce a thermoplastic film having a stretchable network. In fact, any thermoplastic film or bag mentioned above can include a thermoplastic film manufactured using the SELF process. In some embodiments (e.g., the thermoplastic film comprises multiple layers), the SELF process results in discontinuous bonding between adjacent layers. Indeed, the stretchable network can include adjacent bonded and unbonded areas. U.S. Patent Nos. 5,518,801, 6,139,185, 6,150,647, 6,394,651, 6,394,652, 6,513,975, 6,695,476, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0134923, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006 / 0093766 each disclose processes for forming stretchable networks or patterns of stretchable networks suitable for embodiments of this disclosure. The contents of each of the aforementioned patents and publications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. As used herein, the term “stretchable network” refers to a set of interconnected and related zones that are capable of extending to a useful extent in a predetermined direction, thereby providing a web material with elastic-like behavior in response to applied and subsequently released elongation.

[0123] Figure 7 A pair of self-interlocking rollers 702, 704 for forming a stretchable network in a thermoplastic film are shown. The first self-interlocking roller 702 may include a plurality of ridges 706 and grooves 708 extending generally radially outward in a direction orthogonal to the axis of rotation 710. The second self-interlocking roller 704 may also include a plurality of ridges 712 and grooves 714 extending generally radially outward in a direction orthogonal to the axis of rotation 716. However, as Figure 7 As shown, the ridge 712 of the second SELF intermeshing roller 704 may include a plurality of notches 718 defining a plurality of spaced-apart teeth 720.

[0124] Now refer to Figure 8A The diagram illustrates a thermoplastic film 800 formed using separate intermeshing rollers 702 and 704. Specifically, as the thermoplastic film 800 passes through the separate intermeshing rollers 702 and 704, teeth 720 can press a portion of the thermoplastic film 800 out of the plane to cause permanent deformation of that portion in the Z-direction. The portion of the thermoplastic film 800 passing through the notched areas (i.e., notches 718) of the teeth 720 will be substantially unformed in the Z-direction, resulting in a plurality of deformed, raised rib-like elements 802. The length and width of the rib-like elements 802 depend on the length and width of the teeth 720.

[0125] like Figure 8A As shown, the stretchable network of the thermoplastic film 800 may include a first thicker region 804, a second thicker region 806, and a stretched, thinner transition region 808 connecting the first thicker region 804 and the second thicker region 806. The first thicker region 804 and the stretched, thinner transition region 808 may form raised rib-like elements 802 of the stretchable network. Furthermore, the second thicker region 806 may form the web region of the thermoplastic film 800. Specifically, the second thicker region 806 may form a web region that is not on the same plane as the raised rib-like elements 802, so as to create recesses between adjacent rib-like elements.

[0126] like Figure 8A As shown, the thermoplastic film 800 also includes an encapsulating fragrance component. Specifically, the encapsulating fragrance component includes a fragrance (not shown) encapsulated within a plurality of encapsulants 810. As shown, the encapsulants 810 can be applied to the raised ribbed elements 802 and the web region corresponding to the second thicker region 806. For example, as Figure 8A As shown, a first set of encapsulants 810 may be disposed on the surface of the raised rib-shaped element 802 (e.g., on the first thicker region 804), and a second set of encapsulants 810 may be disposed on the surface of the web region (e.g., on the second thicker region 806), such that at least some of the encapsulants from the second set of encapsulants 810 (e.g., encapsulant 812) are located within the recesses between adjacent ribs. Although Figure 8A Only the first set of encapsulant 810 on the first thicker region 804 corresponding to the raised rib element 802 is shown, but in some embodiments, the encapsulant may additionally or alternatively be disposed on the stretched thinner region 808. In other words, the surface of the raised rib element 802 may include the first thicker region 804 and the stretched thinner region 808.

[0127] In one or more embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component is applied to the thermoplastic film 800 after it has passed through the SELF-interlocked rollers 702, 704. However, in some embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component is applied before the thermoplastic film 800 passes through the SELF-interlocked rollers 702, 704. In this case, the flexibility of the encapsulant 810 (e.g., before the encapsulant 810 has dried) allows the encapsulant 810 to pass completely through the SELF-interlocked rollers 702, 704.

[0128] In some embodiments, as described above, the encapsulant 810 is configured to delay the release of the fragrance until it is activated (e.g., triggered). In other words, the encapsulant 810 may retain the encapsulated fragrance until it is activated to release the fragrance. For example, in one or more embodiments, the encapsulant 810 retains the fragrance until it is activated to release the fragrance in response to a physical interaction applied to the thermoplastic film 800 (e.g., applied to the raised ribs 802 corresponding to the first thicker region 804 and the web region corresponding to the second thicker region 806). For illustration, the encapsulant 810 may be configured to be activated to release the fragrance in response to physical tension applied to the thermoplastic film 800.

[0129] The rib-shaped element 802 allows the thermoplastic film 800 to undergo substantial "geometric deformation" prior to "molecular-level deformation." As used herein, the term "molecular-level deformation" refers to deformation that occurs at the molecular level and is not perceptible to the normal naked eye. That is, even if one could discern the effects of molecular-level deformation (such as elongation or tearing of the film), one could not discern the deformation that allows or causes it to occur. This contrasts with the term "geometric deformation," which refers to deformation of the thermoplastic film, or an article containing the thermoplastic film, that is normally perceptible to the normal naked eye when subjected to applied tension. Types of geometric deformation include, but are not limited to, bending, unfolding, and rotation.

[0130] Therefore, as Figure 8B As shown, when physical tension is applied (e.g., in the TD direction indicated by arrows 820a-820b), the raised rib element 802 can undergo geometric deformation before the raised rib element 802 or the flat area corresponding to the web region undergoes molecular-level deformation. For example, before any molecular-level deformation of the thermoplastic film 800, the applied physical tension can pull the raised rib element 802 back into the plane where the flat area corresponding to the web region is located. Geometric deformation can produce much less resistance to the applied tension compared to the resistance presented by molecular-level deformation.

[0131] like Figure 8B As further shown, a portion of the encapsulant 810 can be activated in response to applied physical tension to release the fragrance. Specifically, as Figure 8B As shown, the first set of encapsulants 810 on the surface of the raised rib-shaped element 802 (e.g., on the first thicker region 804) has been activated, while the second set of encapsulants 810 on the surface of the web region (e.g., on the second thicker region 806) has not yet been activated in response to the applied physical tension.

[0132] In fact, in one or more embodiments, the raised rib-like elements 802 and the web region are configured to activate the encapsulant 810 in stages. For example, the positioning of the first set of encapsulant 810 relative to the second set of encapsulant 810 (e.g., a set of encapsulant disposed on the second thicker region 806, including encapsulant 812) can cause the first set of encapsulant 810 to be activated in a first stage in response to physical tension applied to the thermoplastic film 800. Furthermore, relative positioning can cause the second set of encapsulant 810 to be activated in a subsequent stage in response to additional physical tension applied to the thermoplastic film 800.

[0133] For illustration, in one or more embodiments, when physical tension is applied to the thermoplastic film 800 and the raised ribs 802 are pulled back into a plane having a flat area corresponding to the web region, the surface of the raised ribs 802 flattens, stretches, or otherwise moves, causing the first set of encapsulants 810 to activate and release the fragrance. For example, physical tension can sufficiently stretch the surface of the raised ribs 802 to overcome the structural integrity (e.g., tensile strength) of the first set of encapsulants 810. In other words, in one or more embodiments, the geometric deformation of the raised ribs 802 in response to physical tension is sufficient to cause the first set of encapsulants 810 to activate and release the fragrance. For further illustration, the web region may be unaffected by the (initial) physical tension applied to the thermoplastic film 800 (because the raised ribs 802 undergoes geometric deformation before the web region undergoes deformation, as described above). Therefore, the positioning of the second set of encapsulants 810 on the surface of the web area is configured such that the second set of encapsulants 810 can retain the fragrance until they are activated by additional tension applied to the thermoplastic film 800, which causes the web area to undergo some deformation.

[0134] In fact, Figure 8C This illustrates the application of additional physical tension to the thermoplastic film 800 (e.g., in the TD direction indicated by arrows 820a-820b). Figure 8C As shown, when additional physical tension is applied to the thermoplastic film 800, the second group of encapsulants 810 (e.g., the encapsulant group disposed on the second thicker region 806, including encapsulant 812) can be activated to release fragrance. For example, when additional physical tension is applied, the web region can undergo some deformation, resulting in the activation of the second group of encapsulants 810.

[0135] In one or more embodiments, the encapsulant 810 is configured to be activated in response to various additional or alternative physical interactions. For example, as described above, the encapsulant 810 may be configured to be activated in response to applied friction or pressure.

[0136] Furthermore, while much of this disclosure discusses activation of the encapsulant 810 through physical interaction with the thermoplastic film 800, in other embodiments, the encapsulant 810 may be configured to be activated based on a variety of other triggers. For example, in some embodiments, the encapsulant 810 is configured to be activated based on pH exposure to release an aroma. For example, the encapsulant 810 may be configured to be activated based on exposure to (e.g., contact with) odor particles from an odor source having a specific pH level or a pH level within a range of pH levels to release an aroma. In some embodiments, the encapsulant 810 is configured to be activated based on exposure to water, water vapor, or some other liquid to release an aroma. In some embodiments, the encapsulant 810 is configured to release an aroma over time (e.g., is configured to have porosity characteristics).

[0137] Now for reference Figure 8D The diagram illustrates the structure of a thermoplastic film 850 produced using mutually meshing SELF-forming rollers 702, 704. In fact, in one or more embodiments, in addition to their ability to deform geometry, the mutually meshing SELF-forming rollers 702, 704 can also laminate multiple layers of thermoplastic film. For example, in one or more embodiments, the SELF-forming process discontinuously and slightly laminates adjacent thermoplastic film layers. Specifically, thermoplastic films 852a-852b may be slightly laminated in some areas but not bonded in other areas, such as area 854. However, in some embodiments, the SELF-forming process fully laminates adjacent layers of the thermoplastic film, such that thermoplastic films 852a-852b are fully laminated in all areas.

[0138] like Figure 8D As further shown, the structure of the thermoplastic film 850 may include an encapsulated fragrance component. Specifically, the structure of the thermoplastic film 850 includes a plurality of encapsulants 860 coated on the raised rib-like elements 856 and the web region 858 of the thermoplastic film 852a to encapsulate the fragrance component. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, the structure of the thermoplastic film 850 includes the encapsulated fragrance component between the thermoplastic films 852a-852b (e.g., within the unbonded areas of the structure of the thermoplastic film 850).

[0139] although Figures 7-8DThe SELF process and the thermoplastic films and bags manufactured by the SELF process have been discussed, but it should be noted that the thermoplastic films and bags described herein can be manufactured by a variety of alternative processes. For example, thermoplastic films and bags can be manufactured using a ring rolling process to include multiple ribs and multiple web regions, as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 967,238, filed April 30, 2018, entitled “NON-CONTINUOUSLY LAMINATED STRUCTURES OF THEHERMOPLASTIC FILMS WITH DIFFERING MATERIAL COMPOSITIONS AND FUNCTIONAL MATERIAL PROPERTIES,” and published as U.S. Patent No. 10,293,981, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0140] Figure 9 A thermoplastic bag 900 with self-leaned sidewalls is shown. The thermoplastic bag 900 may include the same structure as one of the thermoplastic bags discussed above, although with a different pattern of discontinuous bonding and a thinner web and thicker ribs. Specifically, the thermoplastic bag 900 may include a single pattern of raised elements arranged in a checkerboard pattern. This pattern may include a micro pattern of raised rib-like elements 952 and a macro pattern of raised rib-like elements 950. In one or more embodiments, the encapsulated fragrance component is positioned on the macro pattern. In alternative embodiments, the encapsulated fragrance component is positioned on the micro pattern. In still some embodiments, the encapsulated fragrance component is positioned on both the micro and macro patterns.

[0141] Figure 10A Another thermoplastic bag 1000 similar to the thermoplastic bag described above is shown. Figure 10B This is an enlarged view of a portion of thermoplastic bag 1000. (See also: [link to reference]). Figure 10A and Figure 10BOne or more sidewalls of the thermoplastic bag 1000 have a first plurality of raised rib-like elements 1082 in a macroscopic pattern (e.g., a spherical pattern) and a second plurality of raised rib-like elements 1080a in a microscopic pattern (e.g., four rhombuses). As shown, the second plurality of raised rib-like elements 1080a in the microscopic pattern are nested within the macroscopic pattern. Furthermore, the thermoplastic bag 1000 includes web regions 1080, 1082b. Web regions 1080, 1082b may surround the microscopic and macroscopic patterns of the raised rib-like elements. The plurality of web regions 1080, 1082b include areas in which a first layer and a second layer are separated to form a discontinuous bond between the layers (i.e., an inner bag and an outer bag). Furthermore, as... Figure 10A and Figure 10B As shown, the web region 1082b is arranged in a sinusoidal pattern. In one or more embodiments, the encapsulated fragrance component is located on the web region 1082b. In some embodiments, the encapsulated fragrance component is additionally or optionally positioned on a first plurality of raised rib elements 1082 in a macroscopic pattern and / or a second plurality of raised rib elements 1080a in a microscopic pattern. Thus, the thermoplastic bag 1000 can provide a staged release of fragrance from the encapsulated fragrance component in response to different activation triggers, such as different levels of tension applied to the thermoplastic bag 1000.

[0142] in addition, Figure 10A and Figure 10B The thermoplastic bag described herein is shown to include areas with different patterns. Specifically, Figure 10A The upper portion 1061 of a thermoplastic bag 1000 comprising a fence-like diamond pattern is shown. The fence-like diamond pattern may include raised rib-like elements arranged in a diamond pattern, wherein the intersections of the diamond sides are rounded rather than ending at corners. The fence-like diamond pattern may also include areas in which a first layer and a second layer are separated to form a discontinuous bond between the layers (i.e., an inner bag and an outer bag). In one or more embodiments, an encapsulated fragrance component is positioned on the upper portion 1061.

[0143] As mentioned above, the application of encapsulated fragrance components allows thermoplastic bags to provide improved odor control. Researchers conducted studies to evaluate the effectiveness of thermoplastic bags with encapsulated fragrance components (or other encapsulated odor components) applied on them. Figures 11A-11B A graph is shown reflecting experimental results reflecting the effectiveness of thermoplastic bags in providing odor control using encapsulated fragrance components (or other encapsulated odor control components) according to one or more embodiments.

[0144] Researchers compared the performance of thermoplastic bags utilizing various embodiments (labeled "Technology 1", "Technology 2", and "Technology 3") of encapsulating odor-controlling components applied thereto. Specifically, the various embodiments of the encapsulating odor-controlling components included encapsulants with varying porosity levels, which configured the encapsulant to release a portion of the odor-controlling active material over time. For example, the encapsulant of "Technology 1" was configured to have a medium level of porosity.

[0145] Researchers further compared the performance of thermoplastic bags containing encapsulated odor-controlling components with those using purified oil applied thereto for odor control. It should be noted that, although... Figures 10A-10B The figures illustrate thermoplastic bags with an odor control component (e.g., a neutralizing oil or an encapsulating odor control component) disposed thereon, but they provide an indication of how dual fragrance odor control using at least one encapsulating fragrance component improves the odor control performance of the thermoplastic bag over time.

[0146] Researchers added a combination (the same combination) of odor sources to each thermoplastic bag and measured the reduction in odor provided by each thermoplastic bag by a specialized team. Specifically, at a given time period, team members measured the odor within each thermoplastic bag, activated (e.g., by applying tension to the thermoplastic bag) an odor control application within the thermoplastic bag (e.g., an encapsulated odor control component or clean oil application), and then remeasured the odor (e.g., to determine the reduction in odor present due to activation).

[0147] exist Figure 10A The thermoplastic bags shown in the image have corresponding odor control applications, with separation layers positioned between the layers of the thermoplastic bag. Figure 10B The thermoplastic bags indicated in the text have corresponding odor control applications, which are disposed inside the bag (i.e., on the inner surface). For example... Figure 10A and Figure 10B As shown in both examples, a thermoplastic bag with encapsulated odor control components provides improved odor control compared to a thermoplastic bag with an oil-removing application. Specifically, the thermoplastic bag with encapsulated odor control components provides significantly improved odor reduction. Furthermore, after the encapsulant is activated to release the odor-controlling active material (e.g., fragrance), the thermoplastic bag with encapsulated odor control components provides a significant reduction in odor at a given point in time. It should be noted that any reduction in odor after the oil-removing application is "activated" can be attributed to the odor-controlling active material located at the bottom of the thermoplastic bag rising to the top space after the thermoplastic bag is pushed down to "activate" the odor control. In other words, the oil-removing application is not activated because the odor-controlling active material is already exposed at the time of application.

[0148] One or more embodiments of the present invention may also include a method of forming a thermoplastic bag. Figures 12-13 The accompanying description describes such a method. Of course, as a preamble, those skilled in the art will recognize that the method explained in detail herein can be modified. For example, various actions of the described method can be omitted or expanded, additional actions can be included, and the order of various actions of the described method can be changed as needed.

[0149] Reference Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a high-speed automated manufacturing process 1200 for bags is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, process 1200 can be initiated by unwinding a web 1202 of thermoplastic sheet material from a roll 1204 and advancing the web along a machine direction 1206. The unwound web 1202 may have a rectangular profile comprising a width perpendicular to the machine direction 1206, measured between a first edge 1210 and an opposing second edge 1212. In other manufacturing environments, the process may involve extruding the web 1202 using a thermoplastic production process.

[0150] After unfolding the web 1202, process 1200 may include dispensing a substance 1228a containing a first fragrance component using dispenser 1226a, and further dispensing a substance 1228b containing an encapsulated fragrance component using dispenser 1226b. In one or more embodiments, dispensers 1226a-1226b apply substances 1228a-1228b as a series of droplets. However, in some embodiments, dispensers 1226a and / or dispenser 1226b spray the corresponding substances, atomizing the first fragrance component and / or the encapsulated fragrance component for application. Thus, dispensers 1226a-1226b can increase the surface area covered by substances 1228a-1228b. Furthermore, when using an aqueous carrier, dispensers 1226a-1226b can apply a thinner layer of the first fragrance component and / or the encapsulated fragrance component by spraying, thereby drying the aqueous carrier more quickly and increasing the chances of the first fragrance component and / or the encapsulated fragrance component drying when the resulting thermoplastic bag is recycled for use. In some embodiments, dispensers 1226a-1226b spray substances 1228a-1228b intermittently to avoid applying substances 1228a-1228b where a side seal is required (i.e., for better adhesion of the side seal). In one or more embodiments, substances 1228a and / or 1228b are applied additionally or alternatively using rollers or channel castings. It should be noted that the positioning of substances 1228a-1228b on the web 1202 is for illustrative purposes. In fact, dispensers 1226a-1226b can be configured to position material 1228a-1228b at various locations on web 1202.

[0151] In some embodiments, process 1200 utilizes alternative methods to apply substance 1228a containing the first fragrance component and / or substance 1228b containing the encapsulated fragrance component. For example, process 1200 may apply substance 1228a and / or substance 1228b by particulation, agglomeration / emulsification, dripping / gelling, or coating.

[0152] In one or more embodiments, substance 1228a and / or substance 1228b includes liquid applications (e.g., aqueous carriers), powder applications, or any other applications described above. In one or more embodiments, substance 1228a and / or substance 1228b is applied with a deposition aid (e.g., methylcellulose) to improve the adhesion of the substance without making the bag sticky when a consumer attempts to open it. For illustration, the deposition aid may include water-soluble resins / adhesives such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, polyvinylpyrrolidone, alginate, polyvinyl alcohol, cellulose (e.g., hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), or prolactan. In some cases, the deposition aid includes water-insoluble resins / adhesives (e.g., nitrocellulose, CAB, acrylates, polyurethanes, etc.). Such deposition aids may be used, for example, in combination with encapsulants that are triggered to release their odor-controlling active substances in response to contact with water. In some embodiments, the deposition aid includes one or more hot melts or acrylates.

[0153] In some embodiments, substances 1228a and / or 1228b are provided with ultraviolet (UV) indicators to provide visual evidence of the spray pattern (e.g., under black light) or to help identify clogged nozzles during manufacturing. In some embodiments, substances 1228a and / or 1228b are provided with color indicators so that consumers can visually identify the location of the first fragrance component and / or the encapsulated fragrance component, respectively. For example, the color indicator may include an oil-soluble dye encapsulated within an encapsulant of the encapsulated fragrance component, allowing consumers to see where activation occurs. In some embodiments, the color indicator includes a water-soluble dye mixed into the aqueous phase of the first fragrance component and / or the encapsulated fragrance component to indicate to consumers where the first fragrance component and / or the encapsulated fragrance component have been applied, respectively.

[0154] As described above, process 1200 can be modified so that the action of applying the substance containing the first fragrance component and the encapsulating fragrance component can be more efficient than... Figure 12 The earlier or later occurrence shown. For example, in one or more embodiments, the substance 1228a containing the first fragrance component and / or the substance 1228b containing the encapsulating fragrance component (or the encapsulating fragrance component itself) can be co-extruded with the web 1202 using a thermoplastic production process.

[0155] Subsequently, process 1200 may include a folding process 1230, which includes folding the web 1202 around its width and in a straight line with the machine direction 1206 to provide adjacent first folded halves 1232 and second folded halves 1234. Folding the web 1202 may move the second edge 1212 adjacent to the first edge 1210, such that the two edges correspond to the open top edge of the finished bag. The middle width portion of the web 1202 may correspond to the reinforced bottom edge portion of the finished bag, which may be moved parallel to the machine direction 1206. Additionally, the folded halves 1232, 1234 of the web 1202 correspond to the first and second sidewalls of the finished bag. As described above, the application of a substance containing a first fragrance component and / or encapsulating the fragrance component may be performed after the folding process 1230. For example, in some embodiments, process 1200 utilizes one or more dispensers inserted into the open portion of the folded bag and applying the substance accordingly.

[0156] Additional process steps can be applied to produce the finished bag. Specifically, process 1200 may include a drawstring insertion process 1244, which involves inserting a drawstring into a first edge 1210 and a second edge 1212 of the web 1202.

[0157] Optionally, to combine (and optionally stretch) the halves of the web, the processing equipment may include a pair of intermeshing rollers 1246, such as those described above. The folded halves 1232, 1234 may advance between the intermeshing rollers 1246 along the machine direction 1206, the intermeshing rollers 1246 being configured to rotate in opposite directions of rotation to impart the resulting combined pattern 1250. To facilitate the patterning of the folded halves 1232, 1234, the intermeshing rollers 1246 may be forced or guided against each other by, for example, a hydraulic actuator. The pressure at which the rollers are pressed together may be in a first range of 30 PSI (2.04 atm) to 100 PSI (6.8 atm), a second range of 60 PSI (4.08 atm) to 90 PSI (6.12 atm), and a third range of 75 PSI (5.10 atm) to 85 PSI (5.78 atm). In one or more embodiments, the pressure may be approximately 80 PSI (5.44 atm).

[0158] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermeshing rollers 1246 can be arranged such that they extend in conjunction with or are wider than the widths of the folded halves 1232, 1234. In one or more embodiments, the engagement pattern 1250 created by the intermeshing rollers 1246 can extend from near the folded edge to adjacent edges 1210, 1212. To avoid applying the engagement pattern 1250 to the portion of the folded halves 1232, 1234 that includes the drawstring, the respective ends of the intermeshing rollers 1246 can be smooth and without ridges or grooves. Therefore, the adjacent edges 1210, 1212 and the corresponding portions of the folded halves 1232, 1234 near those edges may not be endowed with the engagement pattern 1250, those edges being between the smooth ends of the intermeshing rollers 1246.

[0159] The processing equipment may include pinch rollers 1248 to accommodate the width of the folded halves 1232, 1234. To produce finished bags, the processing equipment may further process the folded halves 1232, 1234. For example, to form parallel side edges of the finished bags, the folded halves 1232, 1234 may be processed by a sealing operation 1252, wherein a heat seal 1254 may be formed between the folded edge and adjacent edges 1210, 1212. The heat seal may fuse adjacent folded halves 1232, 1234 together. The heat seal 1254 may be spaced along the folded halves 1232, 1234 and, together with the outer edges of the fold, may define individual bags. The heat seal 1254 may be made by a heating device (e.g., a heating knife or sealing strip), as described in more detail below. A perforation operation 1256 may perforate the heat seal 1254 with a perforation device (such as a perforating knife) so that individual bags 1258 may be separated from the web 1202. In one or more embodiments, the folded halves 1232, 1234 may be folded once or more before being guided through the perforation operation. The folded halves 1232, 1234 embodying a single bag 1258 may be wound into a roll 1260 for packaging and distribution. For example, the roll 1260 may be placed in a box or bag for sale to a customer.

[0160] In one or more embodiments of process 1200, a cutting operation may replace the perforation operation 1256. The web is guided through a cutting operation that cuts the folded halves 1232, 1234 into individual bags 1258 at that location before winding them onto roll 1260 for packaging and distribution. For example, roll 1260 may be placed in a box or bag for sale to a customer. The bags may be staggered before being wound into roll 1260. In one or more embodiments, the folded halves 1232, 1234 may be folded one or more times before the folded web is cut into individual bags. In one or more embodiments, individual bags 1258 may be placed in a box or bag instead of onto roll 1260.

[0161] Despite Figure 12 Not shown, but in one or more embodiments, process 1200 includes packaging a plurality of bags into a box, bag, or other container, wherein at least one bag has a fragrance different from that associated with the other bags. In fact, process 1200 may include positioning a plurality of bags with different fragrances within the same packaging material. In some embodiments, process 1200 may include placing a plurality of bags with different fragrances within the same packaging material without separating the bags with different fragrances. For example, process 1200 may include including a plurality of bags with different fragrances in a single bag roll, and then placing the single bag roll in a box, bag, or other container.

[0162] In one or more embodiments, process 1200 packages multiple bags of different fragrances together using multiple encapsulated fragrance components of fragrances with different scents. For example, process 1200 may include dispensing a substance containing an additional encapsulated fragrance component onto one or more bags using an additional dispenser. The additional encapsulated fragrance component may encapsulate a fragrance having a scent different from that associated with the fragrance component contained in substance 1228b. For example, process 1200 may include alternating (e.g., every other bag) dispensing substance 1228b containing the encapsulated fragrance component using dispenser 1226b and dispensing substance containing the additional encapsulated fragrance component using an additional dispenser. As another example, the process may use dispenser 1226b to dispense substance 1228b containing the encapsulated fragrance component onto bags of an initial group to be packaged into a container, and further use an additional dispenser to dispense substance containing the additional encapsulated fragrance component onto bags of a subsequent group to be packaged into the same container.

[0163] By utilizing encapsulated fragrance components, multiple sachets of fragrances with different scents can be included in the same packaging (e.g., without separation) and the different fragrances are prevented from mixing. In fact, because the encapsulated fragrance components retain their individual fragrances until activation, the different fragrances are protected from release and mixing. Therefore, process 1200 can facilitate a multi-fragrance experience within the same sachet packaging using sachets of different scents.

[0164] Figure 13 An exemplary embodiment of a manufacturing process for producing a multilayer thermoplastic film (e.g., a first film 1340 and a second film 1342) is shown. The multilayer thermoplastic film has an encapsulating fragrance component 1344 (e.g., a substance containing the encapsulating fragrance component 1344) and a first fragrance component (not shown) disposed therein, thereby producing a multilayer thermoplastic bag. According to process 1300, the first film 1340 and the second film 1342 can be unwound from a feed roll 1302 and oriented along the machine direction MD, respectively. Alternatively, the first film 1340 and the second film 1342 can be extruded directly from one or more extrusion towers instead of the feed roll 1302.

[0165] Before bonding the first film 1340 and the second film 1342, an encapsulating fragrance component 1344 (e.g., one or more substances containing encapsulating fragrance component 1344) may be applied to the inner side of the first film 1340 and the second film 1342 (e.g., the side of the first film 1340 and the second film 1342 that will be bonded together). The encapsulating fragrance component 1344 may be applied by one or more of lamination, dust removal, spraying, rolling, and any other method known in the art for applying substances to films. In one or more embodiments, the encapsulating fragrance component 1344 (or a substance containing encapsulating fragrance component 1344) is co-extruded with the first film 1340 and the second film 1342. Similarly, before bonding the first membrane 1340 and the second membrane 1342, a first fragrance component (not shown) or a substance containing the first fragrance component may be applied to the inside of the first membrane 1340 and the second membrane 1342 onto one or more of the first membrane 1340 and the second membrane 1342.

[0166] After the encapsulating fragrance component 1344 and the first fragrance component have been applied to one or more of the first film 1340 and the second film 1342, the first film 1340 and the second film 1342 may pass between a pair of cylindrical intermeshing rollers 1306, 1308 to progressively stretch and lightly laminate the initially separated first film 1340 and the second film 1342, thereby creating unbonded areas and bonded areas in at least one segment of the multilayer film (i.e., the final sidewall of the multilayer bag). Figure 13The intermeshing rollers 1306 and 1308 shown may have a structure similar to any intermeshing roller described in U.S. Patent No. 8,603,609, or as referenced above. Figure 7 The structure of the intermeshing rollers is shown. Rollers 1306 and 1308 may be oriented such that their longitudinal axes are perpendicular to the machine direction. Additionally, rollers 1306 and 1308 may rotate about their longitudinal axes in opposite directions of rotation. In some embodiments, a motor may be provided to drive the rotation of rollers 1306 and 1308 in a controlled manner. As the first film 1340 and the second film 1342 pass between a pair of rollers 1306 and 1308, the ridges and / or teeth of rollers 1306 and 1308 may form a multilayer film (i.e., the final sidewall of a multilayer bag).

[0167] During the manufacturing process 1300, the multilayer film can also pass through a pair of pinch rollers 1310, 1312. The pinch rollers 1310, 1312 can be appropriately arranged to grip the multilayer film.

[0168] Folding operation 1314 can fold the multilayer film to create the sidewalls of the finished bag. Folding operation 1314 can fold the multilayer film in half along the transverse direction. Specifically, folding operation 1314 can move the first edge 1316 adjacent to the second edge 1318, thereby creating a folded edge 1320. For example, this process can include the folding operation described in U.S. Patent No. 8,568,283, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Additionally, folding operation 1314 can form a folded edge at the final top portion of the thermoplastic film.

[0169] To produce the finished bag, the processing equipment can further process the folded multilayer film. Specifically, the pull-tab operation 1322 inserts a pull-tab 1346 into the first edge 1316 and the second edge 1318 of the multilayer film. Furthermore, the sealing operation 1324 forms parallel side edges of the finished bag by creating a heat seal 1326 between adjacent portions of the folded multilayer lightweight laminated film. Additionally, the sealing operation 1324 seals the folded edges to the sidewalls of the final thermoplastic bag. The heat seal 1326 firmly bonds adjacent layers together at the location of the heat seal 1326 to tightly seal the edges of the finished bag (e.g., creating a seal that is at least substantially waterproof). The heat seals 1326 can be spaced along the folded multilayer film to provide the desired width to the finished bag. The sealing operation 1324 can use a heating device such as a heated knife to form the heat seal 1326.

[0170] The perforation operation 1328 can use a perforation device such as a perforation knife to form a perforation 1330 in the heat seal 1326. The perforation 1330, together with the folded outer edge 1320, can define a single bag 1348 that can be separated from the multilayer film. A roll 1332 can be wound around the multilayer lightly laminated film containing the finished single bag 1348 for packaging and distribution. For example, the roll 1332 can be placed in a box or bag for sale to a customer.

[0171] In some embodiments, the folded multilayer lightweight laminated film can be cut into individual bags along the heat seal 1326 by a cutting operation. In another embodiment, the folded multilayer lightweight laminated film can be folded once or more before the cutting operation. In yet another embodiment, the side sealing operation 1324 can be combined with the cutting and / or perforation operation 1328.

[0172] In other embodiments, the folds of the thermoplastic bag may be rolled and / or self-leaned to form a pattern in the folds. Furthermore, the folds of the thermoplastic bag may be rolled and / or self-leaned before and / or after folding into the folded shape.

[0173] Given the openness here, people will understand that, relative to Figure 13 The described process 1300 can be modified to omit or extend actions, or to change the order of various actions as needed. Specifically, process 1300 may include placing or applying the packaged odor control component such that the packaged odor control component is located within or around the fold as described below.

[0174] This disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of this disclosure. For example, the illustrated and described embodiments include discontinuous (i.e., discontinuous or partially discontinuous lamination) lamination to provide weak bonding. In alternative embodiments, lamination may be continuous. For example, multilayer films may be co-extruded such that these layers have bonding strength that provides delamination before film failure, thereby providing benefits similar to those described above. Therefore, the described embodiments should be considered in all respects as merely illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of this disclosure is therefore indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All variations falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims will be included within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A bag comprising: A first sidewall, the first sidewall comprising a first layer of thermoplastic material; The second sidewall is opposite to the first sidewall and is connected to the first sidewall along the first side edge, the opposite second side edge, and the bottom edge; A first unencapsulated fragrance component is applied to a first layer of the thermoplastic material on the inner surface of the first sidewall; as well as An encapsulated fragrance component is applied to a first layer of the thermoplastic material on the inner surface of the first sidewall, wherein the encapsulated fragrance component comprises a fragrance encapsulated within a plurality of encapsulants configured to become brittle upon drying such that the plurality of encapsulants can rupture and release the fragrance in response to physical interactions with the surface applied to the first layer of the thermoplastic material.

2. The bag according to claim 1, wherein: The first unencapsulated fragrance component includes an additional fragrance having a first fragrance; and The fragrance component of the encapsulated fragrance includes a second fragrance that is different from the first fragrance.

3. The bag according to claim 1, wherein, The first unencapsulated fragrance component includes a pure oil.

4. The bag of claim 1, further comprising an additional encapsulating fragrance component applied to a first layer of the thermoplastic material, wherein the additional encapsulating fragrance component comprises additional fragrance encapsulated within an additional plurality of encapsulants and is configured to delay the release of the additional fragrance.

5. The bag according to claim 4, wherein: The plurality of encapsulants of the encapsulating fragrance components are disposed on a first portion of the first layer of the thermoplastic material; The additional encapsulating agents of the additional encapsulating fragrance component are disposed on the second portion of the first layer of the thermoplastic material; and The positions of the plurality of encapsulants are configured such that, relative to the positions of the additional encapsulants: The plurality of encapsulants are activated in response to a first trigger applied to the first layer of the thermoplastic material to release fragrances; as well as The additional encapsulants are activated in response to a second trigger applied to the first layer of the thermoplastic material to release the additional fragrance.

6. The bag according to claim 1, wherein, The encapsulating fragrance component is configured to delay the release of the fragrance by retaining the fragrance within the plurality of encapsulants until activated in response to a physical interaction applied to a first layer of the thermoplastic material, including at least one of physical tension or friction, to release the fragrance.

7. The bag according to claim 6, wherein, The plurality of encapsulants of the encapsulating fragrance components adhere to the inner surface of the first layer of the thermoplastic material.

8. The bag according to claim 1, wherein, The encapsulated fragrance component is configured to have porosity characteristics to release at least a portion of the fragrance over time.

9. The bag according to claim 1, further comprising a second layer of thermoplastic material adjacent to the first layer of thermoplastic material, wherein, The encapsulating fragrance component is also disposed between the first layer and the second layer of the thermoplastic material.

10. A thermoplastic bag, comprising: First sidewall; The second sidewall is opposite to the first sidewall and is connected to the first sidewall along the first side edge, the opposite second side edge, and the bottom edge; A first fragrance component, wherein the first fragrance component is applied to at least one of the first sidewall or the second sidewall; as well as An encapsulated fragrance component is applied to at least one of a first sidewall or a second sidewall, wherein the encapsulated fragrance component comprises a fragrance encapsulated within a plurality of encapsulants and is configured to delay the release of the fragrance; in: At least the first sidewall or the second sidewall includes: Multiple ribs; and Multiple web regions, which are separated from and connected to the ribs of the multiple ribs, wherein the multiple web regions are not on the plane where the ribs of the multiple ribs are located, so as to form a recess between adjacent ribs of the multiple ribs; The encapsulated fragrance component is disposed on the ribs and the plurality of web areas; and The ribs and the plurality of web regions are configured to activate the plurality of encapsulants to release the fragrance in stages.

11. The thermoplastic bag according to claim 10, wherein: The plurality of encapsulants are configured to become brittle when dry, such that the plurality of encapsulants can rupture and release the fragrance in response to physical interaction applied to the surface of the first sidewall or the surface of the second sidewall.

12. The thermoplastic bag of claim 10, further comprising an encapsulation odor control component applied to at least one of the first sidewall or the second sidewall, wherein, The encapsulated odor control component includes odor control active substances encapsulated within additional encapsulants and is configured to delay the release of the odor control active substances.

13. The thermoplastic bag according to claim 10, wherein: The fragrance component of the encapsulated fragrance agent comprises a first fragrance; and The first fragrance component includes an additional fragrance having a second fragrance that belongs to the same fragrance family as the first fragrance.

14. The thermoplastic bag according to claim 10, wherein: The fragrance component of the encapsulated fragrance agent comprises a first fragrance; and The first fragrance component includes an additional fragrance having a second fragrance associated with a second fragrance family, which is different from the first fragrance family associated with the first fragrance.

15. The thermoplastic bag according to claim 10, wherein, The encapsulated fragrance component is configured to delay the release of the fragrance by retaining the fragrance within the plurality of encapsulants until activated in response to a physical interaction, including at least one of physical tension or friction, applied to at least one of the first or second sidewalls to release the fragrance.

16. The thermoplastic bag according to claim 10, wherein, The encapsulated fragrance component is configured to have porosity characteristics and to delay the release of the fragrance by releasing at least a portion of the fragrance over time based on the porosity characteristics.

17. The thermoplastic bag according to claim 10, wherein: At least one of the first sidewall or the second sidewall comprises a first film of thermoplastic material and a second film of thermoplastic material; and The encapsulating fragrance component is disposed between the first film of the thermoplastic material and the second film of the thermoplastic material.

18. The bag of claim 1, wherein the plurality of encapsulants comprises a formaldehyde-based shell, the formaldehyde-based shell being flexible in liquid form to allow the encapsulating fragrance component to be applied to a first layer of the thermoplastic material, and the formaldehyde-based shell becoming brittle when dry to allow the plurality of encapsulants to rupture and release the fragrance in response to the physical interaction.

19. The bag of claim 1, wherein the encapsulating fragrance component applied to the inner surface of the first sidewall to the first layer of thermoplastic material comprises the encapsulating fragrance component disposed within the fold of the bag.

20. The bag of claim 19, wherein the plurality of encapsulants are configured to rupture and release the fragrance in response to the physical interaction of a drawstring disposed within the fold moving through the fold.

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