Flexible container with handle

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a flexible container (10). In one embodiment, the flexible container includes a front panel (22), a rear panel (24), a first gusseted side panel (18), and a second gusseted side panel (20). The gusseted side panels join the front and rear panels along a perimeter seal (41) to form a chamber. The panels form (i) a top portion, (ii) a body portion, and (iii) a bottom portion. The top portion includes a neck (27) and an appendage (30) within the neck. The front panel includes a front handle (82) extending therefrom, and the rear panel includes a rear handle (84) extending therefrom. The front and rear handles are inverse to each other, and the front and rear handles extend over the first gusseted side panel.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Flexible containers are known that are used to store, transport, and dispense flowable materials. Large gusseted flexible containers with handles on the top and bottom of the container are increasingly available. Dual-handled containers that require two-handed operation have several drawbacks. The non-rigid and pliable nature of flexible containers requires two-handed operation to avoid spills during dispensing. Operator care and attention is further required throughout the dispensing sequence to ensure that the handle of the container does not interfere with the dispense flow and cause spills. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0002] The art recognizes a need for flexible containers with improved handling and dispensing control.

[0003] Disclosed herein is a flexible container. In one embodiment, the flexible container includes a front panel, a rear panel, a first gusseted side panel, and a second gusseted side panel. The gusseted side panels join the front panel and the rear panel along a perimeter seal to form a chamber. The panels form (i) a top portion, (ii) a body portion, and (iii) a bottom portion. The top portion includes a neck and an appendage within the neck. The front panel includes a front pattern extending therefrom, and the rear panel includes a rear pattern extending therefrom. The front and rear patterns are in inverse relationship to one another, and the front and rear patterns extend over the first gusseted side panel.

[0004] Processes are also disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the process includes providing a flexible container comprising a front panel, a rear panel, a first gusseted side panel, and a second gusseted side panel. The gusseted side panels join the front panel and the rear panel along a perimeter seal to form a chamber. The panels form (i) a top portion comprising a neck and an appendage therein, (ii) a body portion, and (iii) a bottom portion. The top portion comprises a neck and an appendage therein. The front panel comprises a front handle extending therefrom, and the rear panel comprises a rear handle extending therefrom. The front handle and the rear handle are in inverse relation to one another, and the front handle and the rear handle extend over the first gusseted side panel. The process includes gripping the front handle and the rear handle and lifting the flexible container with the handle. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flexible container with a front panel having a front pattern and a rear panel having a rear pattern, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the clamped panels. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the flexible container of FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the flexible container of FIG. 1 being gripped by a front handle and a back handle according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the flexible container of FIG. 4 being elevated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the flexible container of FIG. 5A with a closure removed for opening, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the open container of FIG. 5B being elevated according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5D]FIG. 5D is a perspective view of the open container of FIG. 5B dispensing a flowable material according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5E] FIG. 5E is a perspective view of a closure replacement for closing the flexible container of FIG. 5B according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a flexible container with a tap for dispensing flowable material according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] definition All references herein to the Periodic Table of the Elements shall refer to the Periodic Table of the Elements, published and copyrighted in 2003 by CRC Press, Inc., and any references to a Group(s) shall be to the Group(s) reflected in this Periodic Table of the Elements, using the IUPAC system for numbering the Groups.

[0007] For purposes of United States patent practice, the contents of any referenced patent, patent application, or publication are incorporated by reference in their entirety (or the equivalent United States version thereof is so incorporated by reference), particularly with respect to the disclosure of definitions (to the extent not inconsistent with any definitions provided in this disclosure) and general knowledge in the art.

[0008] Numerical ranges disclosed herein include all values ​​from and including the lower and upper limit values. In the case of ranges containing explicit values ​​(e.g., ranges from 1, or 2, or 3-5, or 6, or 7), any subranges between any two explicit values ​​are included (e.g., the above range of 1-7 includes subranges such as 1-2, 2-6, 5-7, 3-7, 5-6, etc.).

[0009] Unless stated to the contrary, implicit from the context, or customary in the art, all parts and percentages are by weight and all testing methods are as of the filing date of this disclosure.

[0010] As used herein, the term "composition" refers to a mixture of materials that comprise the composition, as well as reaction products and decomposition products formed from the materials of the composition.

[0011] The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and their derivatives are not intended to exclude the presence of any additional components, steps, or procedures, whether or not they are specifically disclosed. To avoid ambiguity, all compositions claimed through the use of the term "comprising" may include any additional additives, adjuvants, or compounds, whether polymeric compounds, unless stated to the contrary. In contrast, the term "consisting essentially of" excludes from the scope of any ensuing description any other component, step, or procedure, except those that are not essential to operability. The term "consisting of" excludes any component, step, or procedure not specifically delineated or listed.

[0012] As used herein, an "ethylene-based polymer" is a polymer that contains greater than 50 weight percent polymerized ethylene monomer (based on the total amount of polymerizable monomers) and, optionally, may include at least one comonomer.

[0013] As used herein, an "olefin-based polymer" is a polymer that contains greater than 50 weight percent polymerized olefin monomers (based on the total amount of polymerizable monomers) and may optionally contain at least one comonomer. Non-limiting examples of olefin-based polymers include ethylene-based polymers and propylene-based polymers.

[0014] A "polymer" is a compound prepared by polymerizing monomers, whether of the same or different types, which, in polymerized form, result in a plurality and / or repeating "units" or "mer units" that make up the polymer. Thus, the general term polymer encompasses the term homopolymer, which is typically used to refer to a polymer prepared from only one type of monomer, and the term copolymer, which is typically used to refer to a polymer prepared from at least two types of monomers. It also encompasses all forms of copolymers, e.g., random, block, etc. The terms "ethylene / α-olefin polymer" and "propylene / α-olefin polymer" refer to the above-mentioned copolymers prepared by polymerizing ethylene or propylene, respectively, and one or more additional polymerizable α-olefin monomers. It should be noted that while polymers are often referred to as "made from" one or more particular monomers, such as "based on" a particular monomer or type of monomer, "containing" a particular monomer content, in this context, it is understood that the term "monomer" refers to the polymerized residue of a particular monomer and not to the unpolymerized species. Generally, polymers herein are referred to in terms of "units" that are the polymerized form of the corresponding monomers.

[0015] A "propylene-based polymer" is a polymer that contains more than 50 weight percent polymerized propylene monomer (based on the total amount of polymerizable monomers) and, optionally, can contain at least one comonomer.

[0016] Test Method Density is measured by ASTM D792 and results are reported in grams per cubic centimeter (g / cc).

[0017] Melt index (MI) was measured by ASTM D1238, condition 190° C. / 2.16 kg, and the results are reported in grams per 10 minutes (g / 10 min).

[0018] As used herein, Tm or "melting point" (also referred to as melting peak in reference to the shape of the plotted DSC curve) is typically measured by DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) techniques for measuring polyolefin melting points or peaks, as described in USP 5,783,638. It should be noted that many blends containing two or more polyolefins have more than one melting point or peak, and many individual polyolefins contain only one melting point or peak.

[0019] Detailed Description The present disclosure provides a flexible container. The flexible container includes a front panel, a rear panel, a first gusseted side panel, and a second gusseted side panel. The gusseted side panels join the front panel and the rear panel along a perimeter seal to form a chamber. The panels form (i) a top portion, (ii) a body portion, and (iii) a bottom portion. The top portion includes a neck and an appendage within the neck. The front panel includes a front pattern extending from the front panel. The rear panel includes a rear pattern extending from the rear panel. The front and rear patterns are in inverse relationship to one another. The front and rear patterns extend over the first gusseted side panel.

[0020] Figures 1 and 3-6 show a flexible container 10. The flexible container 10 has an expanded configuration (shown in Figures 1 and 4-6) and a collapsed configuration (shown in Figure 3). The flexible container 10 has a top portion I, a body portion II, and a bottom portion III, as shown in Figure 3.

[0021] The flexible container 10 has four panels. During the fabrication process, the panels are formed when one or more webs of film material are sealed together. In one embodiment, four webs of film material are sealed together to form the four panels. The webs may be separate pieces of film material, but it will be understood that any number of seams between the webs can be "pre-made," such as by folding one or more original webs to produce the effect of one or more seams. For example, if it is desired to fabricate the flexible container from two webs instead of four, the bottom, left center, and right center webs can be a single folded web, rather than three separate webs. Similarly, one, two, or more webs may be used to produce each respective panel (i.e., a bag-in-bag or inner bag configuration).

[0022] FIG. 2 shows the relative positions of the four webs (in a "one-up" configuration) as they pass through the fabrication process to form the four panels. For clarity, the webs are shown as four individual panels, with the panels separated and unsealed. The constituent webs form a first gusseted side panel 18, a second gusseted side panel 20, a front panel 22, and a back panel 24. Gusset fold lines 60 and 62 are shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0023] As shown in Figure 2, the folded gusseted side panels 18, 20 are placed between the back panel 24 and the front panel 22 to form a "panel sandwich." The gusseted side panel 18 is opposite the gusseted side panel 20. When the flexible container 10 is in the collapsed configuration, the flexible container is in a flat or otherwise evacuated state. The gusseted side panels 18, 20 are folded inward (dotted gusseted fold lines 60, 62 in Figure 3) and are sandwiched by the front panel 22 and the back panel 24.

[0024] Each of the four panels 18, 20, 22, and 24 may be constructed from a separate web of multilayer film. The composition and structure of each web of multilayer film may be the same or different. Alternatively, one web of multilayer film may also be used to make all four panels. In further embodiments, two or more webs of multilayer film may be used to make each panel.

[0025] Multilayer Film The flexible multi-layer film used in the construction of each panel of the flexible container 10 can include food grade plastics. For example, nylon, polypropylene, polyethylene (such as high density polyethylene (HDPE) and / or low density polyethylene (LDPE)) may be used, as discussed below. The flexible multi-layer film may have a thickness sufficient to maintain flowable materials and package integrity during manufacturing, distribution, product shelf life, and customer use. The film material may also be such that the film material provides adequate air pressure within the flexible container 10 to maintain a product shelf life of at least about 180 days. The flexible multi-layer film may be rated as "cc / m 2 The flexible multilayer film may comprise an oxygen barrier film having an oxygen transmission rate (OTR) reported in units of "air per 24 hours / atmosphere" and measured at 23° C. and 80% relative humidity (RH). In one embodiment, the flexible multilayer film may comprise an oxygen barrier film having an oxygen transmission rate (OTR) of 0, or 0.2 to 0.4, or 1 cc / m 2 In further embodiments, the flexible multilayer film has an OTR value of 0 to 1, or 0.2 to 0.4 cc / m 2 1. The flexible multilayer film also has an OTR value of "g / m 2 The flexible multilayer film may comprise a water vapor barrier film having a water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) reported in units of "water vapor transmission rate" (WVTR) per 24 hours and measured at 38° C. and 90% RH. In one embodiment, the flexible multilayer film may comprise a water vapor barrier film having a water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of 0, or 0.2, or 1 to 5, or 10, or 15 g / m 2 In further embodiments, the flexible multilayer film has a WVTR value of 0 to 15, or 0.2 to 10, or 1 to 5 g / m2 10. The flexible multilayer film may have a WVTR value of 10 / 24 hours. Additionally, it may be desirable to use materials of construction that are oil and / or chemical resistant, particularly in the sealing layer, but not limited to the sealing layer. The flexible multilayer film may be either printable or compatible to receive a pressure sensitive label or other type of label for displaying indicia on the flexible container 10.

[0026] In one embodiment, each panel 18, 20, 22, 24 is made from a flexible multi-layer film having at least one, at least two, or at least three layers. The flexible multi-layer film is resilient, flexible, deformable, and pliable. The flexible multi-layer film structure and composition for each panel may be the same or different. For example, each of the four panels may be made from a separate web, with each web having a unique structure and / or unique composition, finish, or print. Alternatively, each of the four panels may be of the same structure and the same composition.

[0027] In one embodiment, each panel 18, 20, 22, 24 is a flexible multi-layer film having the same structure and the same composition.

[0028] The flexible multilayer film may be (i) a coextruded multilayer structure, or (ii) a laminate, or a combination of (i) and (ii). In an embodiment, the flexible multilayer film has at least three layers: a sealing layer, an outer layer, and a bonding layer therebetween. The bonding layer adjoins the sealing layer to the outer layer. The flexible multilayer film may also include one or more optional inner layers disposed between the sealing layer and the outer layer.

[0029] In one embodiment, the flexible multilayer film is a coextruded film having at least two, or three, or four, or five, or six, or seven layers. For example, some methods used to construct the film are cast or blown coextrusion, adhesive lamination, extrusion lamination, thermal lamination, and coating such as vapor deposition. Combinations of these methods are also possible. In addition to the polymeric material, the film layer may contain additives such as stabilizers, slip additives, anti-blocking additives, processing aids, clarifiers, nucleating agents, pigments or colorants, fillers and reinforcing agents commonly used in the packaging industry. It is particularly useful to select additives and polymeric materials with suitable organoleptic and / or optical properties.

[0030] Non-limiting examples of suitable polymeric materials for the sealing layer include olefin-based polymers (any ethylene / C, linear or branched). 3 -C 10 Examples of suitable polymers include α-olefin copolymers), propylene-based polymers (including plastomers and elastomers, random propylene copolymers, propylene homopolymers, and propylene impact copolymers), ethylene-based polymers (including plastomers and elastomers, high density polyethylene ("HDPE"), low density polyethylene ("LDPE"), linear low density polyethylene ("LLDPE"), medium density polyethylene ("MDPE"), ethylene-acrylic acid or ethylene-methacrylic acid and their ionomers with zinc, sodium, lithium, potassium, magnesium salts, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers, and hybrids thereof.

[0031] In one embodiment, the sealing layer is a blend of an olefin-based polymer and a slip agent.

[0032] Non-limiting examples of olefin-based polymers suitable for use in the seal layer blend include LLDPE (sold under the trade name DOWLEX™ (The Dow Chemical Company)), single-site LLDPE, (substantially linear or linear olefin polymers, including polymers sold under the trade name AFFINITY™ or ELITE™ (The Dow Chemical Company)), propylene-based plastomers or elastomers such as VERSIFY™ (The Dow Chemical Company), and blends thereof.

[0033] Non-limiting examples of slip agents suitable for use in the seal layer blend include fatty acid derivatives. In one embodiment, the slip agent is an amide of a C18-C24 fatty acid. In a further embodiment, the slip agent is an amide of a C22 monounsaturated fatty acid (e.g., erucamide).

[0034] Non-limiting examples of polymeric materials suitable for the outer layer include those used to make biaxially or uniaxially oriented films for lamination and coextrusion films. Some non-limiting examples of polymeric materials are biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BOPET), uniaxially oriented nylon (MON), biaxially oriented nylon (BON), and biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP). Other polymeric materials useful in constructing the film layers for structural benefits are polypropylene (such as propylene homopolymer, random propylene copolymer, propylene impact copolymer, and thermoplastic polypropylene (TPO), propylene-based plastomers (e.g., VERSIFY™ or VISTAMAX™), polyamides (such as nylon 6, nylon 6,6, nylon 6,66, nylon 6,12, nylon 12, etc.), polyethylene norbornene, cyclic olefin copolymers, polyacrylonitrile, polyesters, copolyesters (such as PETG), cellulose esters, LLDPE based on ethylene octene copolymers such as copolymers of polyethylene and ethylene (e.g., DOWLEX™), hybrids thereof, and multilayer combinations thereof.

[0035] Non-limiting examples of suitable polymeric materials for the tie layer include functionalized ethylene-based polymers such as ethylene vinyl acetate ("EVA"); polymers having maleic anhydride grafted to any polyethylene, ethylene copolymer, or polyolefin such as polypropylene; and ethylene acrylate copolymers such as ethylene methyl acrylate ("EMA"); glycidyl-containing ethylene copolymers; propylene and ethylene-based olefin block copolymers (OBCs) such as INTUNE™ (PP-OBC) and INFUSE™ (PE-OBC), both available from The Dow Chemical Company; and hybrids thereof.

[0036] The flexible multilayer film may include additional layers that may contribute to structural integrity or provide specific properties. Additional layers may be added by direct means or by using appropriate tie layers to adjacent polymer layers. Polymers that may provide additional mechanical performance, such as stiffness or opacity, and polymers that may provide gas barrier properties or chemical resistance may be added to the structure.

[0037] Non-limiting examples of suitable materials for the optional barrier layer include copolymers of vinylidene chloride with methyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, or vinyl chloride (e.g., SARAN resins available from The Dow Chemical Company), vinyl ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), metal foils (such as aluminum foil), etc. Alternatively, when used in laminate multilayer films, modified polymer films such as vapor-deposited aluminum or silicon oxide on films such as BON, BOPET, or OPP can be used to provide barrier properties.

[0038] In one embodiment, the flexible multilayer film has a thickness of 100 micrometers (μm), or 200 μm, or 250 μm to 300 μm, or 350 μm, or 400 μm. In further embodiments, the flexible multilayer film has a thickness of 100 to 400 μm, or 200 to 350 μm, or 250 to 300 μm.

[0039] In one embodiment, panels 18, 20, 22, and 24 are made from the same seven-layer film, the structure and composition of which is set forth in Table 1 below. [Table 1]

[0040] In one embodiment, panels 18, 20, 22, and 24 are made from the same seven-layer film, the structure and composition of which is set forth in Table 2 below. [Table 2]

[0041] In one embodiment, panels 18, 20, 22, and 24 are made from the same seven-layer film, the structure and composition of which is set forth in Table 3 below. [Table 3]

[0042] In one embodiment, panels 18, 20, 22, and 24 are made from the same seven-layer film, the structure and composition of which is set forth in Table 4 below. [Table 4]

[0043] 1, 4 and 6 show the flexible container 10 in an expanded configuration. The flexible container 10 has four panels 18, 20, 22, and 24. In one embodiment, the flexible container 10 includes one web of multilayer film for each respective panel 18, 20, 22, and 24. The gusseted side panels 18, 20 join the front panel 22 and the rear panel 24 along a perimeter seal 41 to form a body portion II, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3. The perimeter seal 41 is located at the side edges of the flexible container 10. As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, four perimeter tapered seals 40 are located at the bottom portion III. As shown in FIG. 3, an overseal 11 is formed where the four perimeter tapered seals 40 converge at a bottom end 46. Overseal 11 includes the area where a portion of each panel (18, 20, 22, 24) is sealed to a portion of every other panel to form a four-ply seal. Overseal 11 also includes the area where two panels (front panel 22 and back panel 24) are sealed together. As used herein, the term "overseal" is the area where the peripheral tapered seal 40 converges and is subjected to at least two sealing steps as described herein.

[0044] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the four panels 18, 20, 22, 24 extend toward a top end 44 to form a top portion I of the flexible container 10 and extend toward a bottom end 46 to form a bottom portion III of the flexible container 10. As shown in Figure 1, the top portion I forms the top section 28 and the bottom portion III forms the bottom section 26. To form the top and bottom portions I and III, the four webs of film are converged together at their respective ends and sealed together. For example, the top section 28 is an extended portion of the panels 18, 20, 22, 24 and can be defined by the four top panels that are sealed together at the top end 44. The bottom section 26 is also an extended portion of the panels 18, 20, 22, 24 and can be defined by the four bottom panels that are sealed together at the bottom end 46. Non-limiting examples of suitable methods for sealing the four webs of film together include ultrasonic sealing, heat sealing, impulse sealing, radio frequency sealing, and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the seal between the four webs of film is formed by a heat sealing procedure. As used herein, the term "heat sealing procedure" includes placing two or more films of polymeric material between opposing heat sealing bars, moving the heat sealing bars toward each other, pinching the films, and applying heat and pressure to the films so that the opposing surfaces (sealing layers) of the films come into contact, melt, and form a heat seal or weld to attach the films to each other. Heat sealing includes structures and mechanisms suitable for moving the seal bars toward and away from each other to perform the heat sealing procedure.

[0045] top part The top portion I includes a neck. In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, a portion of each of the four panels 18, 20, 22, 24 forms a top section 28 and terminates at a neck 27. Thus, each panel extends from the bottom section 26 to the neck 27. The neck 27 includes an appendage 30, as shown in Figures 1, 3-5. At the neck 27, a portion of the top end section of each of the four panels 18, 20, 22, 24 is sealed or otherwise welded to the appendage 30 to form a strong seal. In one embodiment, the appendage 30 is sealed to the neck 27 with a heat sealing procedure as described herein. The base of the appendage 30 has a circular cross-sectional shape, although it is understood that the base of the appendage 30 may have other cross-sectional shapes, such as, for example, a polygonal cross-sectional shape. The base having a circular cross-sectional shape differs from the canoe-shaped base appendages used in conventional two panel flexible pouches.

[0046] In one embodiment, the exterior surface of the base of the appendage 30 has a surface texture. The surface texture may include embossments and a plurality of radial ridges to facilitate sealing to the interior surface of the top section 28.

[0047] The appendages 30 can generally be located anywhere on the top section 28 of the flexible container 10. In one embodiment, the appendages 30 can be positioned at the midpoint of the top section 28 and sized smaller than the width of the flexible container 10 such that the appendages 30 can have an area that is less than the total area of ​​the top section 28. In a further embodiment, the area of ​​the appendages is 20% or less of the total area of ​​the top section. This can ensure that the appendages 30 are not large enough to insert a hand through them, thus avoiding any unintentional contact with the flowable material 48 stored therein, as shown in FIGS. 1, 4, and 6.

[0048] In one embodiment, the attachment 30 is a spout. In a further embodiment, the attachment 30 is a threaded spout, as shown in Figures 5B-5E.

[0049] In one embodiment, the attachment 30 includes a closure. The closure covers the attachment 30 and prevents the flowable material 48 from spilling out of the flexible container 10. The closure can be a removable closure. Non-limiting examples of removable closures include threaded caps and flip-top caps. In one embodiment, the removable closure is a threaded cap 32, as shown in Figures 1, 4, and 5A-5E.

[0050] In some embodiments, the closure is a dispensing closure. Non-limiting examples of dispensing closures suitable for use include a faucet. In one embodiment, the dispensing closure is a faucet 52, as shown in FIG. 6.

[0051] The attachment 30, threaded cap 32, and faucet 52 may be made of rigid construction and may be formed from any suitable plastic, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), and combinations thereof.

[0052] Main body part Body portion II of flexible container 10 includes a chamber. As shown in Figures 1, 4, and 6, a flowable material 48 is stored inside the chamber. The flowable material is a material that can be transferred to and from flexible container 10. As used herein, the term "flowable material" is a liquid or particulate solid material that can be poured from the chamber, through attachment 30, and out of flexible container 10.

[0053] In one embodiment, the flowable material 48 is a food product. Non-limiting examples of food products suitable for storage within the chamber of the flexible container 10 include beverages such as water, juice, milk, syrup, carbonated drinks (beer, soft drinks) and fermented drinks (wine, scotch), salad dressings, sauces, dairy products, condiments (e.g., mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup), animal feed, and the like.

[0054] In one embodiment, the flowable material 48 is an industrial product. Non-limiting examples of industrial products suitable for storage within the chamber of the flexible container 10 include oils, paints, greases, chemicals, cleaning solutions, washing fluids, suspensions of solids in liquids, and solid particulate matter (powders, particles, granular solids).

[0055] In one embodiment, the flowable material 48 is a squeezable product. As used herein, the term "squeezable product" refers to a flowable material that (i) has a viscosity greater than that of water and (ii) requires the application of a squeezing force to the flexible container 10 in order to expel the material from the chamber. Non-limiting examples of squeezable products suitable for storage in the chamber of the flexible container 10 include grease, butter, margarine, soap, shampoo, animal feed, sauces, baby food, and the like.

[0056] The chamber of the flexible container 10 has a volume. In one embodiment, the volume of the chamber of the flexible container 10 is 0.25 liters (L), or 0.5 L, or 0.75 L, or 1 L, or 1.5 L, or 2.5 L, or 3 L, or 3.5 L, or 4 L, or 4.5 L, or 5 L to 6 L, or 7 L, or 8 L, or 9 L, or 10 L, or 20 L, or 30 L. In further embodiments, the volume of the chamber of the flexible container 10 is 0.25 to 30 L, or 0.5 to 10 L, or 3 to 8 L. bottom part

[0057] Bottom portion III includes bottom handle 14, as shown in Figures 1, 4-6. Bottom handle 14 extends vertically or substantially vertically from bottom section 26, and in particular can extend from the four bottom panels that make up bottom section 26. All four bottom top panels of film extending into bottom handle 14 are sealed together to form multi-layered bottom handle 14. In one embodiment, the four bottom panels come together at the midpoint of bottom section 26 and are sealed together by a heat sealing procedure, as described herein. Bottom handle 14 can comprise up to four layers of film (one layer for each panel 18, 20, 22, 24) sealed together when a web of four films is used to make flexible container 10. Any portions of bottom handle 14 where all four layers are not completely sealed together by the heat sealing procedure can be adhered together in any suitable manner, such as by tack sealing, to form a completely sealed multi-layered bottom handle 14. The bottom handle 14 may have any suitable shape and will generally take the shape of the film edge. Often, a web of film will have a rectangular shape when unrolled such that its ends have straight edges. Thus, the bottom handle 14 will also have a rectangular shape.

[0058] The bottom handle 14 includes a bottom handle opening 16. The bottom handle opening 16 can be any shape that is convenient to fit in the hand, and in one aspect, the bottom handle opening 16 can have a generally rectangular shape. In another embodiment, the bottom handle opening 16 can have a generally oval shape. Additionally, the bottom handle opening 16 can include a flap 38, as shown in Figures 1, 3-6. The flap 38 includes material that is cut from the bottom handle 14 to form the bottom handle opening 16. To define the bottom handle opening 16, the bottom handle 14 can have a section cut out along three sides or portions while remaining attached at a fourth side or portion. In one embodiment, the underside or portion of the flap 38 can remain attached to the bottom handle 14, as shown in Figure 1. This provides a flap 38 that can be pushed through the bottom handle opening 16 by a user and folded over the edge of the bottom handle opening 16. In one embodiment, the flap 38 is folded downward and away from the flexible container 10 to create a smooth gripping surface on the bottom handle 14 so that the handle material is not sharp and can prevent a user's hands from being cut by any sharp edges of the bottom handle 14.

[0059] In one embodiment, the bottom handle 14 can be a "punch-out handle," which is a handle formed by a process of cutting or otherwise "punching" film material from the bottom 14, thereby removing the film material from the flexible container 10. A punch-out handle does not have or is otherwise devoid of a flap.

[0060] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, the portion of the bottom handle 14 attached to the bottom section 26 includes a machine crease 42 (or score line) that provides the bottom handle 14 with a continuous, same-fold fold. The machine crease 42 can provide a fold line that facilitates folding toward the rear panel 24 and limits folding toward the front panel 22. The machine crease 42 can allow the bottom handle 14 to be inclined to be continuously folded or bent toward the rear panel 24, as shown in FIG. 5B and FIG. 5E. The machine crease 42 can allow the bottom handle 14 to be continuously folded toward the rear panel 24 because the machine crease 42 provides a substantially permanent fold line in the bottom handle 14 that facilitates folding toward the rear panel 24, but not toward the front panel 22. The machine crease 42 can be positioned below the bottom section 26 of the flexible container 10 at where the seal begins, as shown in FIG. 1. The bottom handle 14 can be glued together with a tack adhesive or the like, beginning with the area of ​​the bottom handle 14 that includes the machine crease 42. When the flexible container 10 is stored in an upright position, the machine crease 42 urges the bottom handle 14 to fold along the machine crease 42 so that the bottom handle 14 can be folded under the flexible container 10, as shown in Figures 5B, 5E. The weight of the flowable material 48 can also apply a force to the bottom handle 14, such that the weight of the flowable material 48 can further push the bottom handle 14 and maintain the bottom handle 14 in a folded position in a first direction.

[0061] The bottom handle 14 is disposed in certain positions. The positions of the bottom handle 14 include a storage position and an open position. As shown in Figures 5B and 5E, the bottom handle 14 has a storage position when the flexible container 10 is stored in an upright position on the bottom section 26. The bottom handle 14 has a storage position, for example, when the flexible container 10 is displayed for shipping, storage, and sale. As shown in Figures 1, 4, 5A, 5C, 5D, and 6, the bottom handle 14 has an open position, for example, when the flexible container 10 is lifted, transported, and dispenses the flowable material 48.

[0062] Front and rear patterns The flexible container 10 includes a front pattern 82 and a rear pattern 84, as shown in Figures 1, 3-6. The front pattern 82 extends horizontally or substantially horizontally from the front panel 22, and in particular may extend from the body portion II of the flexible container 10. As shown in Figure 1, the multilayer film providing the front panel 22 extends into the front pattern 82 and extends through the perimeter seal 41. In one embodiment, the front pattern 82 is integral with the front panel 22. The term "integral" as used herein indicates that the front pattern 82 and the front panel 22 are sub-components of a single integral component and are constructed from the same multilayer film.

[0063] In one embodiment, the rear pattern 84 is integral with the rear panel 24. The rear pattern 84 can extend horizontally or substantially horizontally from the rear panel 24, and in particular from the body portion II of the flexible container 10. As shown in FIG. 1 , the multilayer film that provides the rear panel 24 extends into the rear pattern 84 and through the peripheral seal 41.

[0064] 1, the front and rear handles 82, 84 are inverse to one another. In one embodiment, the front and rear handles 82, 84 overlap one another and are mirror images of one another.

[0065] As shown in Figures 1, 4, and 6, the front pattern 82 and the back pattern 84 extend over the first gusseted side panel 18. The extensions of the front pattern 82 and the back pattern 84 are contained on the first gusseted side panel 18. The front pattern 82 and the back pattern 84 of the flexible container 10 do not extend beyond one or any of the second gusseted side panel 20, the top section 28, and the bottom section 26. The front pattern 82 and the back pattern 84 extend over the first gusseted side panel 18, excluding the front pattern 82 and the back pattern 84 which extend over the appendage 30. Although Figures 1 and 4-6 show the front and back patterns 82, 84 extending over the first gusseted side panel 18, it is understood that the flexible container 10 can be configured and manufactured such that the front and back patterns 82, 84 extend over the second gusseted side panel 20.

[0066] The front stalk 82 includes a front flange 83 and an outer front stalk 82a, as shown in Figures 1 and 3. The outer front stalk 82a may have a D-shape or an inverted D-shape and includes a pair of spaced apart front arms 86a, 86b extending therefrom. The front arms 86a, 86b extend horizontally or substantially horizontally from the front flange 83. In one embodiment, each of the outer front stalk 82a, the front arms 86a, 86b, and the front flange 83 are integral with one another, i.e., the components 82a, 86a, 86b, and 83 are subcomponents of a single integral component and are constructed from the same multilayer film.

[0067] The rear handle 84 includes a rear flange 85 and an outer rear handle 84a, as shown in FIG. 1. The outer rear handle 84a may have a D-shape or an inverted D-shape and includes a pair of spaced apart rear arms 88a, 88b extending therefrom. The rear arms 88a, 88b extend horizontally or substantially horizontally from the rear flange 85. In one embodiment, each of the outer rear handle 84a, the rear arms 88a, 88b, and the rear flange 85 are integral with one another, i.e., the components 84a, 88a, 88b, and 85 are subcomponents of a single integral component and are constructed from the same multilayer film.

[0068] The flexible container 10 includes a front handle opening 87 and a rear handle opening 89, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3. The front handle opening 87 and the rear handle opening 89 are surrounded by the outer front handle 82a and the outer rear handle 84a, respectively. As used herein, the term "opening" refers to the pair of the front handle opening 87 and the rear handle opening 89. Each opening is sized to fit into a user's hand. The openings can have any shape that is convenient to fit into the hand. In one embodiment, the openings have a generally oval shape, as shown in FIG. 1. In a further embodiment, the openings have a generally rectangular shape. In one embodiment, either the front handle 82 or the rear handle 84 is a "punch-out handle," which is an opening formed by a process of cutting or otherwise "punching" the film material from the front handle 82 or the rear handle 84, thereby removing the film material from the flexible container 10. The punch-out handle does not have a flap or is otherwise flapless. The outer perimeter edges of the opening in the punch-out pattern are smooth and free of sharp edges that could puncture or otherwise injure a user's hand.

[0069] In one embodiment, any of the openings are cut out sections and include a flap that includes cut material to form each opening. For example, front handle 82 includes flap 39 as shown in FIG.

[0070] In one embodiment, the front and rear handles 82 and 84 are sealed together, as shown in Figure 6. The front and rear handles 82 and 84 can be sealed together using a heat sealing procedure described herein. In one embodiment, the seal between the front and rear handles 82 and 84 forms a common edge around the outer edges of the front and rear handles 82 and 84, as shown in Figures 1, 4 and 6. The seal between the front and rear handles 82 and 84 positions the front and rear handles 82 and 84 in a lateral position on the flexible container 10.

[0071] In one embodiment, the seal between the front and rear handles 82, 84 encompasses the entire D-shaped area of ​​the outer front handle 82a and the outer rear handle 84a. In a further embodiment, the seal between the front and rear handles 82, 84 is formed only between the distal end of the outer front handle 82a and the distal end of the outer rear handle 84a.

[0072] The front handle 82 includes a height H, as shown in Figure 3. The height H has a length that is 1.0 to 1.2 times the length of the body section II, as shown in Figure 3. In one embodiment, the height H of the front handle 82 is 4 centimeters (cm), or 6 cm, or 8 cm, or 10 cm, or 12 cm to 14 cm, or 16 cm, or 18 cm, or 20 cm. In further embodiments, the height H of the front handle 82 is 4 to 20 cm, or 8 to 18 cm, or 10 to 16 cm.

[0073] In the same manner as the front handle 82, the rear handle 84 has a height not shown. The height of the rear handle 84 is 1.0 to 1.2 times the length of the main body section II as shown in FIG. 3. In one embodiment, the height of the rear handle 84 is 4 cm, or 6 cm, or 8 cm, or 10 cm, or 12 cm to 14 cm, or 16 cm, or 18 cm, or 20 cm. In further embodiments, the height of the rear handle 84 is 4 to 20 cm, or 8 to 18 cm, or 10 to 16 cm.

[0074] The front handle 82 has a width W, as shown in Figure 3. The width W has a length of 0.5 to 1.0 times the length of the body section II, as shown in Figure 3. In one embodiment, the width W of the front handle 82 is 4 centimeters (cm), or 6 cm, or 8 cm to 10 cm, or 12 cm, or 14 cm, or 16 cm, or 18 cm, or 20 cm. In further embodiments, the width W of the front handle 82 is 4 to 20 cm, or 6 to 16 cm, or 6 to 10 cm.

[0075] In the same manner as the front handle 82, the rear handle 84 has a width not shown. The width of the rear handle 84 has a length that is 0.5 to 1.0 times the length of the body section II, as shown in FIG. 3. In one embodiment, the width of the rear handle 84 is 4 cm, or 6 cm, or 8 cm to 10 cm, or 12 cm, or 14 cm, or 16 cm, or 18 cm, or 20 cm. In further embodiments, the width of the rear handle 84 is 4 to 20 cm, or 6 to 16 cm, or 6 to 10 cm. tab

[0076] The front panel 22 includes one or more front tabs, and the rear panel 24 includes one or more rear tabs. In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 1, 3-6, the front panel 22 includes front tabs 13a and 15a, and the rear panel 24 includes rear tabs 13b and 15b. The front tabs 13a, 15a and the rear tabs 13b, 15b extend vertically or substantially vertically from the top section 28 of the flexible container 10, and in particular may extend from the panels 18, 20, 22, 24 that are sealed together to form the top section 28. The panels (18, 20, 22, 24) that extend to the front tabs 13a, 15a and the rear tabs 13b, 15b are sealed together to form the front tabs 13a, 15a and the rear tabs 13b, 15b. In one embodiment, two, three, or four of the panels 18, 20, 22, 24 are sealed together to form front tabs 13a, 15a and rear tabs 13b, 15b.

[0077] Each of the front tabs 13a, 15a and the rear tabs 13b, 15b includes a respective proximal end and a respective distal end. As shown in FIG. 1, the proximal end of the front tabs 13a, 15a and the proximal end of the rear tabs 13b, 15b are adjacent the top section 28. The distal end of the front tabs 13a, 15a and the distal end of the rear tabs 13b, 15b are located at the ends of the tabs opposite their respective proximal ends. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the front tabs 13a, 15a and the rear tabs 13b, 15b are adjacent the neck 27. The distal end of the front tabs 13a, 15a and the distal end of the rear tabs 13b, 15b are below the top edge of the appendage 30. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the distal ends of the front tabs 13a, 15a and the distal ends of the rear tabs 13b, 15b do not extend beyond the top edge of the appendage 30. As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the top edge of the appendage 30 extends beyond or otherwise exceeds the length of the distal ends of the front tabs 13a, 15a and the distal ends of the rear tabs 13b, 15b.

[0078] Together, front tab 13a and rear tab 13b form tab pair 13. Each tab of tab pair 13 is inverse to one another as shown in Figures 1, 4-6. Similarly, front tab 15a and rear tab 15b form tab pair 15, and each tab of tab pair 15 is inverse to one another. In one embodiment, each tab of tab pair 13 can be nested on top of the other and each tab of tab pair 15 can be nested on top of the other.

[0079] In one embodiment, front tab 13a and rear tab 13b can be sealed together to form tab pair 13, and front tab 15a and rear tab 15b can be sealed together to form tab pair 15, as shown in Figures 4-6. Tab pair 13 and tab pair 15 each include a tab seal 29, as shown in Figure 3. Tab seal 29 can be formed using a heat sealing procedure, as described herein. In one embodiment, tab seal 29 forms a common edge around the outer edges of tab pair 13 and tab pair 15, as shown in Figures 4-6.

[0080] In one embodiment, tabs 13a-15b have a square shape, as shown in Figures 1, 3-6. In a further embodiment, the distal ends of tabs 13a-15b have a rounded or circular shape. Tabs 13a-15b are sized to fit between the thumb and index finger of a user's hand, as shown in Figures 5A, 5C, and 5D.

[0081] process The present disclosure provides a process. The process includes providing a flexible container. The flexible container includes a front panel, a rear panel, a first gusseted side panel, and a second gusseted side panel. The gusseted side panels join the front panel and the rear panel along a perimeter seal to form a chamber. The panels form (i) a top portion, (ii) a body portion, and (iii) a bottom portion. The top portion includes a neck and an appendage within the neck. The front panel includes a front pattern extending from the front panel. The rear panel includes a rear pattern extending from the rear panel. The front pattern and the rear pattern are in inverse relationship to each other. The front pattern and the rear pattern extend over the first gusseted side panel.

[0082] The process includes gripping the flexible container 10. The flexible container 10 is gripped by a front handle 82 and a rear handle 84, as shown in Figures 4, 5A, and 5C. As used herein, the term "handle" refers to the front handle 82 and the rear handle 84. In one embodiment, the flexible container 10 can be gripped by the handle and by the bottom handle 14 simultaneously. In a further embodiment, the flexible container 10 can be gripped only by the bottom handle 14.

[0083] The process includes lifting the flexible container 10. The flexible container 10 is lifted by a handle. In one embodiment, the tab pair 13 can be grasped as the flexible container 10 is lifted by the handle, as shown in FIG. 5A. The proximity of the handle to the tab pair 13 provides for convenient lifting of the flexible container 10. In one embodiment, the tab pair 15, or the bottom handle 14, can be grasped as the flexible container 10 is lifted by the handle.

[0084] The process includes transporting the flexible container 10. The flexible container 10 is transported on a handle, as shown in FIG. 4. A user can walk between two or more locations while transporting the flexible container 10 on the handle. In one embodiment, the tab pair 13 can be grasped as the flexible container 10 is transported on the handle. In one embodiment, the tab pair 15 or the bottom handle 14 can be grasped as the flexible container 10 is transported on the handle. The flexible container 10 can be lowered onto a support surface as the flexible container 10 is grasped on the handle. As shown in FIG. 5B, the flexible container 10 rests in an upright position. The machine creases 42 encourage the bottom handle 14 to fold toward the rear panel 24 as it folds under the flexible container 10. When the flexible container 10 is in an upright position, the threaded cap 32 is removed to place the flexible container 10 in a dispensing position, as shown in Figure 5B. As used herein, the term "open flexible container" is a flexible container 10 with the threaded cap 32 removed from the attachment 30.

[0085] The process includes dispensing a flowable material. The open flexible container 12 can be lifted by a handle, as shown in FIG. 5C. In one embodiment, the tab pair 13 can be gripped as the open flexible container 12 is lifted by the handle. While gripping the handle of the open flexible container 12, the flowable material 48 is dispensed, as shown in FIG. 5D. The flowable material 48 is dispensed from the chamber of the open flexible container 12 through the attachment 30 as the flowable material 9. In one embodiment, the tab pair 13 is gripped during dispensing to provide control of the flowable material 9. In this manner, leakage of the flowable material 9 is avoided as the flowable material 9 enters the container 58.

[0086] In one embodiment, the container 58 is a container, such as, for example, glass.

[0087] As shown in Figure 5E, the open flexible container 12 is lowered onto a support surface and returned to an upright position. As used herein, the term "upright position" is an orientation in which the appendage / closure is the topmost component of the flexible container 10. In other words, when the flexible container 10 is in the upright position, the flexible container 10 rests on the bottom end 46 (and bottom handle 14) when resting on a support surface. The threaded cap 32 is secured onto the appendage 30 of the open flexible container 12.

[0088] In one embodiment, the attachment of the flexible container 10 includes a tap 52, as shown in FIG. 6. The process involves lowering the flexible container 10 onto a support surface 50 while gripping the handle. The second gusseted side panel 20 of the flexible container 10 rests on the support surface 50, as shown in FIG. 6. The user operates the tap 52 while holding the container 58 to capture the flowable material 9. The tap 52 extends horizontally beyond the distal end of the tab pair 15, as shown in FIG. 6. In this manner, the tab pair 15 does not impede the dispensing of the flowable material 9 from the chamber.

[0089] By way of example, and not by way of limitation, certain disclosed embodiments will now be described in detail in the following Examples. EXAMPLES

[0090] The raw materials used to prepare the individual film layers of the multilayer film are provided in Table 5 below. [Table 5]

[0091] The structure of Film 1 used in the manufacture of flexible containers is provided in Table 6 below. [Table 6]

[0092] The multi-layer film was produced using a 7-layer Alpine blown film line and has an A / B / C / D / E / F / G structure, where layer "A" is the outer (i.e. skin) layer and layer "G" is the seal layer.

[0093] The "Layer %" values ​​in Table 6 are the percentage of each layer in the multilayer film. The thickness of each layer is determined by multiplying the "Layer %" value by the total thickness of the multilayer film.

[0094] The total thickness of the multilayer film is 200 micrometers.

[0095] The seven layer film of Table 6 is used to manufacture a four panel flexible container 10 with a front and back pattern as shown in Figures 1, 4-6.

[0096] The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and figures contained herein, but is specifically intended to include modifications of these embodiments, including portions of the embodiments and combinations of elements of different embodiments that fall within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A flexible container comprising: a front panel, a rear panel, a first gusseted side panel, and a second gusseted side panel; the gusseted side panels join the front and rear panels along a perimeter seal to form a chamber; The panel comprises: (i) a top portion having a neck and an appendage within the neck; (ii) a body portion; and (iii) a bottom portion; and Forming the front panel including a front pattern extending therefrom and a front tab adjacent the neck; the rear panel including a rear pattern extending therefrom and a rear tab adjacent the neck; the front and rear patterns are in inverse relation to one another, the front and rear patterns extending over the first gusseted side panel; the front handle extends from the body portion and has a front flange, a pair of spaced apart front arms extending from the front flange, and a front handle opening; the rear handle extending from the body portion and having a rear flange, a pair of spaced apart rear arms extending from the rear flange, and a rear handle opening; The front handle and the rear handle each have a height H and a width W, the height H having a length that is 1.0 to 1.2 times the length of the main body portion, and the width W having a length that is 0.5 to 1.0 times the length of the main body portion; the front and rear tabs are in opposing relation to one another and extend from the top portion, each having a distal end adjacent the neck and extending to the appendage, but not extending beyond a top edge of the appendage, the appendage being a spout; the front and rear patterns extend over the first gusseted side panel, except for the front and rear patterns which extend over the appendage; A heat seal joins the front and rear tabs to form a tab seal, the tab seal forming a common edge around the entire periphery of the front and rear tabs.

2. 2. The flexible container of claim 1, wherein the front and rear stems each have a vertical stem portion, and the front stem is sealed to the rear stem along each of the vertical stem portions.

3. The flexible container of claim 1 , wherein the bottom portion comprises a bottom handle.

4. 10. The flexible container of claim 1, wherein each panel is a flexible multi-layer film.

5. A process comprising: A flexible container is provided, the flexible container comprising a front panel, a rear panel, a first gusseted side panel, and a second gusseted side panel, the gusseted side panels join the front and rear panels along a perimeter seal to form a chamber; The panel comprises: (i) a top portion having a neck and an appendage within the neck; (ii) a body portion; and (iii) a bottom portion; and Forming the front panel includes a front pattern extending therefrom and a front tab adjacent the neck, the back panel includes a rear pattern extending therefrom and a rear tab adjacent the neck, the front and rear patterns are in opposition to one another, the front and rear patterns extend onto the first gusseted side panel, the front and rear tabs are in opposition to one another and extend from the top portion, each tab has a distal end adjacent the neck and extends to the appendage, but the distal end does not extend beyond a top edge of the appendage, the appendage is a spout, and a heat seal joins the front and rear tabs; the front panel includes a front tab adjacent the neck and the rear panel includes a rear tab adjacent the neck, the front and rear tabs being in inverse relationship to one another to form a tab pair; a heat seal joins the front and rear tabs to form a tab seal, the tab seal forming a common edge around the entire periphery of the front and rear tabs; the front handle extends from the body portion and has a front flange, a pair of spaced apart front arms extending from the front flange, and a front handle opening; the rear handle extending from the body portion and having a rear flange, a pair of spaced apart rear arms extending from the rear flange, and a rear handle opening; The front handle and the rear handle each have a height H and a width W, the height H having a length that is 1.0 to 1.2 times the length of the main body portion, and the width W having a length that is 0.5 to 1.0 times the length of the main body portion; providing said front and rear patterns extending over said first gusseted side panel, with the exception of said front and rear patterns extending over said appendage; Gripping the front handle and the rear handle; Lifting the flexible container with the handle; The process includes:

6. The process of claim 5 , further comprising carrying the flexible container on the handle.

7. the body portion comprises a chamber, a flowable material is in the chamber, and the process comprises: The process of claim 5 including dispensing the flowable material from the chamber through an attachment.

8. the front tab and the rear tab form a tab pair, and the process comprises: The process of claim 7 including gripping the pair of tabs during the dispensing.

9. The process of claim 8 , further comprising: said gripping said pair of tabs to control said dispensing of said flowable material.

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