Packaging serration system and method

Abstract

A packaging (200) includes a first side (202) and a second side opposite (204) the first side in a first direction, and a third side (220) and a fourth side (222) opposite the third side in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The first side forms serrations (214) along the first direction between the third side and the fourth side, where the serrations form acute interior angles in the packaging.

Description

Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020PACKAGING SERRATION SYSTEM AND METHODCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 733,642, titled “PACKAGING SERRATION SYSTEM AND METHOD. " filed on December 13, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] The present technology' relates to packaging. In particular, the present technology relates to packaging configured to facilitate tearing of the package to open the package and access the contents. The configuration of the package is particularly suitable for facilitating opening of the package for packaging formed from materials having high tear resistance.BACKGROUND

[0003] Recyclable film and flexible laminates available on the market today are often limited to paper and polyethylene (PE). Paper as packaging material poses several significant market challenges that have yet to be solved, including insufficient barrier and manufacturing line rates. As such, most recyclable packaging solutions being commercialized today are PE. Existing PE films and laminated PE material structures often produce packaging with high tear resistance, typically in a machine direction, and are difficult for consumers to open when formed into a finished package.

[0004] To remedy these shortcomings, traditional PE packaging designs often include serration designs that form mechanical weak points with respect to shear forces imposed by a user. In this regard, for example, FIG. 1 depicts a container 100 that features traditional serration design in the machine direction. As shown in FIG. 1 , the container 100 includes tear notches 102 at a first side 104 and a second side 110 opposite the first side 104 in the machine direction. In a process of manufacturing the container 100, the first side 104 and the second side 110 are sealed along the machine direction to close the container 100 around an object such as a snack bar, and then cut with a knife to form the tear notches 102.

[0005] The tear notches 102 form a regular zig-zag pattern entirely along the first side 104 and the second side 110. With this construction, a same sufficient shear force from a user at any location along the first side 104 or the second side 110 would transfer directly into the tear notches 102 where the shear force is generated. Consequently, if the shear force is generated137212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 too close to a side 112 of the container 100. or deviates too far from the machine direction, a user may damage the container 100 without effectively opening the container 100 for removing the object. In this manner traditional packaging such as the container 100 lacks features that reliably direct a shear force to effectively open the container 100.

[0006] Further, as shown in FIG. 2, traditional serrations such as the tear notches 102 are often too obtuse to properly concentrate a shear force from a user into the film forming the container 100 for tearing the first packaging and accessing contents in the container 100. As such, users often find difficulty in opening packages with traditional serration design.

[0007] Further, excessive serrations in traditional packaging cause excessive wear in the knife used to cut the serrations. Consequently, traditional serration designs often increase maintenance cost and complexity of associated production machines, and cause additional downtime for the associated production machines.SUMMARY

[0008] The following summary of this disclosure provides a basic understanding of aspects of the instant packaging film and packaging method. This summary is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor define any claim limitations or limitations to embodiments. Furthermore, this summary may provide a simplified overview of some aspects that may be described in greater detail in other portions of this disclosure.

[0009] Provided is a packaging for storing contents such as, but not limited to, foodstuffs, wherein the packaging is configured to facilitate tearing of the package to open the package and access the contents. The configuration of the package is particularly suitable for facilitating opening of the package for packaging formed from materials having high tear resistance.

[0010] According to one aspect, a packaging includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side in a first direction, and a third side and a fourth side opposite the third side in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The first side forms serrations along the first direction between the third side and the fourth side, where the serrations form acute interior angles in the packaging.

[0011] According to another aspect, a packaging includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side in a first direction, and a third side and a fourth side opposite the third side in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. The first side forms a first set of serrations offset from the third side and the fourth side, and the first side forms a second set of serrations that is interposed betw een and separates the first set of serrations and the third side or the fourth side. The first set of serrations define first interior angles, the second set of237212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 serrations define second interior angles, and each of the first interior angles has a smaller angular magnitude than each of the second interior angles, or the first side forms a straight edge that is interposed between and separates the first set of serrations and the third side or the fourth side.

[0012] In accordance with aspects and embodiments, the packaging is provided with serrations having cutouts that define acute angles (i.e., angles less than 90 degrees).

[0013] In one aspect, provided is a packaging comprising: a first side and a second side opposite the first side in a first direction; and a third side and a fourth side opposite the third side in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, wherein the first side forms serrations along the first direction between the third side and the fourth side, where the serrations form acute interior angles in the packaging.

[0014] In one embodiment, each of the serrations defines at least one of the interior angles with an angular magnitude less than 80 degrees.

[0015] In one embodiment, each of the serrations defines at least one of the interior angles with an angular magnitude less than 70 degrees.

[0016] In one embodiment, each of the serrations defines at least one of the interior angles with an angular magnitude of from about 20 degrees to about 85 degrees.

[0017] In one embodiment, each of the serrations defines at least one of the interior angles with an angular magnitude of from about 20 degrees to about 85 degrees.

[0018] In one embodiment, the serrations are each offset from a comer of the packaging defined by two of the first side, the second side, the third side, and the fourth side.

[0019] In one embodiment, the serrations are a first set of serrations, and the packaging further comprises a second set of serrations or a straight edge that is interposed between and separates the first set of serrations from the comer, along the first side in the second direction.

[0020] In one embodiment, the packaging comprises the second set of serrations, wherein the interior angles are first interior angles, and each serration in the second set of serrations defines at least one of second interior angles, each of the second interior angles having a greater angular magnitude than each of the first interior angles, and the second set of serrations has a shorter maximum length in the first direction and a shorter maximum width in the second direction than the first set of serrations.

[0021] In one embodiment, the packaging is a sachet formed from a machine direction- oriented (MDO) material, a biaxially oriented (BIAX) material, a blown film, a cast film, or a337212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 combination of two or more thereof, and the packaging comprises a vertical seal extended in the machine direction from the first side to the second side.

[0022] In one embodiment, the packaging comprises a film selected from polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene vinyl alcohol, polylactic acid, paper In one embodiment, the packaging comprises a polyethylene film, and the serrations each have a minimum length of 1 mm and a maximum length of 7 mm in the first direction, a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 7 mm in the second direction, a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees.

[0023] In one embodiment, the serrations are first serrations, the interior angles are first interior angles, and the first side forms second serrations along the first side in the second direction, where the second serrations are interposed between and separate the first serrations from the third side or the fourth side, and define second interior angles, and the second serrations each have a minimum length of 1 mm and a maximum length of 4 mm in the first direction, a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 4 mm in the second direction, a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees.

[0024] In one embodiment, the serrations each have a minimum length of 1 mm and a maximum length of 7 mm in the first direction, a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 7 mm in the second direction, a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees.

[0025] In one embodiment, the serrations are first serrations, the interior angles are first interior angles, and the first side forms second serrations along the first side in the second direction, where the second serrations are interposed between and separate the first serrations from the third side or the fourth side, and define second interior angles, and the second serrations each have a minimum length of 1 mm and a maximum length of 4 mm in the first direction, a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 4 mm in the second direction, a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees.

[0026] In yet another aspect provided is a packaging comprising: a first side and a second side opposite the first side in a first direction; and a third side and a fourth side opposite the third side in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, wherein the first side forms a first set of serrations offset from the third side and the fourth side, and the first side forms a437212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 second set of serrations that is interposed between and separates the first set of serrations and the third side or the fourth side, the first set of serrations define first interior angles, the second set of serrations define second interior angles, and each of the first interior angles has a smaller angular magnitude than each of the second interior angles, or the first side forms a straight edge that is interposed between and separates the first set of serrations and the third side or the fourth side.

[0027] In one embodiment, the first side forms the second set of serrations, and each serration in the first set of serrations is longer in the first direction or wider in the second direction as compared to each serration in the second set of serrations.

[0028] In one embodiment, the first side forms a third set of serrations on a side of the first set of serrations opposite the second set of serrations in the second direction, such that the first set of serrations is interposed between and separates the second set of serrations and the third set of serrations in the second direction, and the third set of serrations defines third interior angles, each of the third interior angles having a greater angular magnitude than each of the first interior angles.

[0029] In one embodiment, the second interior angles and the third interior angles each have a same angular magnitude, and extend along the first side from the first set of serrations to the third side or the fourth side.

[0030] In one embodiment, the first set of serrations is interposed between and separates straight edges, including the straight edge, along the first side in the second direction.

[0031] In one embodiment, the packaging is formed from a machine direction-oriented (MDO) material, a biaxially oriented (BIAX) material, a blown film, a cast film, or a combination of two or more thereof.

[0032] In one embodiment, the packaging comprises a material selected from a polyolefin, a polyester, a polyamide, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene vinyl alcohol, polylactic acid, laminated paper packaging, or a combination of two or more thereof.

[0033] In one embodiment, the packaging comprises polyethylene.

[0034] In one embodiment, the material forming the package has an Elmendorf Machine-Direction Tear Force of at least 30 g.

[0035] In one embodiment, the material forming the package has an Elmendorf Machine- Direction Tear Force of at least 70 g.

[0036] In one embodiment, the material forming the package has an Elmendorf Machine- Direction Tear Force of from 30 g to 600 g.537212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020

[0037] In one embodiment, the package is formed from the MDO material, and the MDO material has Elmendorf Machine-Direction Tear Force of at least 30g.

[0038] In one embodiment, the first interior angles are each less than 90 degrees.

[0039] In one embodiment, the first set of serrations and the second set of serrations form a single row of triangular tabs extended from the first side in the first direction, consecutive tabs in the first set of serrations and the second set of serration are contiguous with each other along the single row, the consecutive tabs in the first set of serrations define the first interior angles, and the consecutive tabs in the second set of serrations define the second interior angles.

[0040] The following description and the drawings disclose various illustrative aspects. Some improvements and novel aspects may be expressly identified, while others may be apparent from the description and drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0041] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a known container.

[0042] FIG. 2 is a partial, enlarged top view of the container of FIG. 1.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a packaging, according to one aspect.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a partial, enlarged top view of the packaging of FIG. 3.

[0045] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a packaging, according to another aspect.

[0046] FIG. 6 is a partial, enlarged top view of the packaging of FIG. 5.

[0047] FIG. 7 is a partial, further enlarged view of the packaging of FIG. 5.

[0048] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a packaging, according to another aspect.

[0049] FIG. 9 is a partial, enlarged top view of the packaging of FIG. 8.

[0050] FIG. 10 is a diagram of an exemplary flow wrapper.

[0051] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of an exemplary knife included in the flow w rapper of FIG. 10.

[0052] FIG. 12 is a back perspective view of the packaging of FIG. 1.

[0053] FIG. 13 is a top view of a packaging according to another aspect.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] It should, of course, be understood that the description and drawings herein are merely illustrative and that various modifications and changes can be made in the structures disclosed without departing from spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Referring now to the drawings, wherein like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, in accordance with an aspect of the innovation, FIG. 3 depicts a packaging 200 that is a horizontal637212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 flow wrapper formed from machine direction-oriented polyethylene (MDO PE). While as depicted the packaging 200 is a sachet formed from MDO PE, the packaging 200 may additionally or alternatively be formed from polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene vinyl alcohol, polylactic acid, laminated paper packaging, or a variety of other flexible pouch packaging materials. Also, while the depicted packaging 200 is a sachet forming a flexible sealed pouch or packet sized and shaped for being held in a palm of a user, and to contain unit portions of food snacks, condiments, powders, granulates, gels, or similar consumer products, the packaging 200 may alternatively be a flowwrapped pouch, tear-open packet, stick pack, pillow pack, overwrap, or other hand-openable flexible packaging that stores contents and provides user access to the contents by manual tearing without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0055] The packaging 200 includes a first side 202 and a second side 204 opposite the first side 202 in a first direction that is a machine direction of the MDO PE and a longitudinal direction of the packaging 200, indicated by an arrow 210. The packaging 200 encloses an object 212 (see FIG. 10) between the first side 202 and the second side 204. In this manner, the first side 202 and the second side 204 form longitudinal end seals of the packaging 200 at opposite sides of the object 212 in the machine direction.

[0056] While in the depicted embodiment the object 212 is a snack bar, the object 212 may be a variety’ of objects having a variety of shapes and sizes to be enclosed by the packaging 200. Further, while the packaging 200 is heated or crimped to seal the first side 202 and the second side 204, the first side 202 and the second side 204 may additionally or alternatively include a variety' of closing means, such as adhesive, for sealing the first side 202 and the second side 204 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0057] The first side 202 and the second side 204 of the packaging 200 each include serrations 214 arranged between a third side 220 and a fourth side 222 of the packaging 200 opposite the third side 220, in a second direction that is a lateral direction of the packaging 200 perpendicular to the machine direction, indicated by arrow 224. FIG. 4 depicts an enlarged view of the serrations 214 at a comer of the packaging 200 defined by the second side 204 and the third side 220. As shown in FIG. 4, the serrations 214 form cutouts 230 that define interior angles in the first side 202 and the second side 204 of the packaging 200. The interior angles defined by the cutouts 230 are each acute angles, i.e. less than 90 degrees, that are respectively pointed inward from the first side 202 and the second side 204 in the machine direction.737212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020

[0058] Referring back to FIG. 3, as depicted, each of the cutouts 230 at the first side 202 and the second side 204 define an acute exterior angle in the packaging 200 that is smaller than a right angle, i.e. less than 90 degrees. In embodiments, the cutouts 230 defined by the serrations 214 have an angular magnitude of 85 degrees or less, 80 degrees or less, 75 degrees or less, even 70 degrees or less, 65 degrees or less, 60 degrees or less, 55 degrees or less, 50 degrees or less. 45 degrees or less, 40 degrees or less, 35 degrees or less, 30 degrees or less. 25 degrees or less, or 25 degrees or less. In an embodiment, the cutouts 230 are each less than 70 degrees. In embodiments, the cutouts 230 can define an angle of from about 20 degrees to about 85 degrees, from about 25 degrees to about 80 degrees, from about 30 degrees to about 70 degrees, from about 35 degrees to about 65 degrees, from about 40 degrees to about 60 degrees, or from about 45 degrees to about 55 degrees. The angular magnitude of the cutouts 230 forms the interior angles in the first side 202 and the second side 204 of the packaging 200.

[0059] The cutouts 230 are spaced from each other along the first side 202 and the second side 204, and form a regular pattern of tabs 232 that point outward from the packaging 200 in the machine direction. The tabs 232 are configured for being gripped and tom by a user, where the user imparts a shear force onto the packaging 200 at the first side 202 or the second side 204. The tabs 232 are integrally formed with, and directly connected to the cutouts 230. With this construction, the shear force generated by the user at the tabs 232 is amplified at one or more of the cutouts 230. Because the cutouts 230 define acute exterior angles in the packaging 200, the cutouts 230 reliably collect and amplify the shear force generated by the user, and cause the packaging 200 to tear open under the shear force.

[0060] FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the packaging 200 of FIGS. 3 and 4. In the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 6, like elements with the packaging 200 of FIGS. 3 and 4 are denoted with the same reference numerals but followed by a primed suffix ('). FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of the packaging 200 where the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ form the serrations 214’ arranged between the third side 220’ and the fourth side 222’ in the lateral direction.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 5, the serrations 214’ include the cutouts 230’ and the tabs 232’ having larger sizes at inner portions of the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ in the lateral direction. More specifically, the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ of the packaging 200 each respectively form the serrations 214’ including a first set of serrations 312 offset from the third side 220' and the fourth side 222' of the packaging 200, and arranged across a middle point of the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ in the lateral direction. The first side 202’837212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 and the second side 204’ of the packaging 200 also each respectively form a second set of serrations 314 at the third side 220’, and form a third set of serrations 320 at the fourth side 222’.

[0062] The first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314, and the third set of serrations 320 are arranged along the first side 202’ and the second side 204’, betw een the third side 220’ and the fourth side 222’ in the lateral direction. The second set of serrations 314 extends from the first set of serrations 312 to the third side 220’, and the third set of serrations 320 extends from the first set of serrations 312 to the fourth side 222’. With this construction, the third set of serrations 320 are located at a side of the first set of serrations 312 opposite the second set of serrations 314 in the lateral direction, where the first set of serrations 312 is interposed between and separates the second set of serrations 314 and the third set of serrations 320 in the lateral direction.

[0063] As such, the first set of serrations 312 are interposed between and separate the second set of serrations 314 and the third set of serrations 320. Also, the second set of serrations 314 is interposed between and separates the first set of serrations 312 and the third side 220’ in the lateral direction. Also, the third set of serrations 320 is interposed between and separates the first set of serrations 312 and the fourth side 222’ in the lateral direction.

[0064] With this construction, the first set of serrations 312 is offset from the third side 220’ and the fourth side 222’ of the packaging 200 at both the first side 202’ and the second side 204’. More specifically, each serration in the first set of serrations 312 is offset from comers of the packaging 200 defined between the first side 202’, the second side 204’, the third side 220’, and the fourth side 222‘. The second set of serrations 314 and the third set of serrations 320 are interposed between and separate the first set of serrations 312 from the comers of the packaging 200 along the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ in the lateral direction, at the third side 220’, or the fourth side 222’.

[0065] The cutouts 230’ and the tabs 232’ forming the first set of serrations 312 have larger sizes than the second set of serrations 314 and the third set of serrations 320. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 6, the cutouts 230’ and the tabs 232’ forming the first set of serrations 312 have vertices that are spaced further apart from each other in the lateral direction as compared to the cutouts 230’ in the second set of serrations 314 and the third set of serrations 320. With this construction, each of the cutouts 230’ and the tabs 232’ forming the first set of serrations 312 are wider in the lateral direction and longer in the machine direction as compared to each of the cutouts 230’ and the tabs 232’ forming the second set of serrations 314 and the third set937212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 of serrations 320. As such, the second set of serrations 314 and the third set of serrations 320 each have a shorter maximum length in the lateral direction and a shorter maximum width in the longitudinal direction than the first set of serrations 312.

[0066] In embodiments, the cutouts 230’ and the tabs 232’ forming each of the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314, and the third set of serrations 320 form exterior angles and interior angles of a same size along the first side 202’ and the second side 204’. In this regard, as shown in FIG. 7, the cutouts 230’ and the tabs 232’ forming the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314, and the third set of serrations 320 respectively define first interior angles 322, second interior angles 324, and third interior angles 330 along the first side 202’ and the second side 204' in the lateral direction. Each of the first interior angles 322, the second interior angles 324, and the third interior angles 330 are defined between exterior edges of consecutive tabs 232’ along the first side 202’ in the lateral direction. As depicted, the exterior edges of the consecutive tabs 232’ extend straight to and between outer vertices 332 of the consecutive tabs 232’ and inner vertices 334 defined by the cutouts 230’ and directly connecting the consecutive tabs 232’.

[0067] With this construction, the first set of serrations 312 and the second set of serrations 314 form a single row of the tabs 232’ as triangular proj ections extended outward from the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ in the longitudinal direction, where the consecutive tabs 232’ in the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314. and the third set of serrations 320 in the lateral direction are contiguous with each other along the single row. The consecutive tabs 232’ in the first set of serrations 312 collectively define the first interior angles 322, and the consecutive tabs 232’ in the second set of serrations 314 collectively define the second interior angles 324, and the consecutive tabs 232’ in the third set of serrations 320 collectively define the third interior angles 330. In this manner, each of the serrations in the first set of serrations 312 defines at least one of the first interior angles 322, each of the serrations in the second set of serrations 314 defines at least one of the second interior angles 324, and each serration in the third set of serrations 320 defines at least one of the third interior angles 330.

[0068] As such, the cutouts 230’ in the first set of serrations 312 have a higher tendency to collect and amplify a shear force generated by a user, as compared to the cutouts 230’ in the second set of serrations 314 and the third set of serrations 320. Consequently, when a user generates a shear force along the first side 202’ or the second side 204' at a location that includes the first set of serrations 312, and includes the second set of serrations 314 or the third1037212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 set of serrations 320. the packaging 200 tears open at the first set of serrations 312 instead of the second set of serrations 314 or the third set of serrations 320. In this manner, the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314, and the third set of serrations 320 guide a shear force from a user toward a central portion of the packaging 200, sufficiently offset from the third side 220’ and the fourth side 222’ to avoid ineffectively opening the packaging 200 for completely removing the object 212.

[0069] In alternative embodiments, each of the first interior angles 322 has a smaller angular magnitude than each of the second interior angles 324 and the third interior angles 330. The second interior angles 324 and the third interior angles 330 have a same angular magnitude that is greater than the angular magnitude of each of the first interior angles 322.

[0070] Also, when a user generates a shear force at the second set of serrations 314 or the third set of serrations 320, but not at the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314 or the third set of serrations 320 may collect and amplify the shear force, tearing the packaging 200. In this manner, when a user generates a shear force at the first side 202’ or the second side 204’ that misses the first set of serrations 312, the user may still open the packaging 200 at the second set of serrations 314 or the third set of serrations 320.

[0071] While, in the depicted embodiment, the different sizes of the tabs 232’ are formed through a difference in spacing between the cutouts 230’, the different lengths of the tabs 232’ may additionally or alternatively be formed from different exterior angle sizes defined in the packaging 200 at the cutouts 230’. Also, while in the depicted embodiment the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314, and the third set of serrations 320 form the tabs 232’ in two distinct sizes, the tabs 232’ may be sized and shaped in a more varied or gradual pattern that features the largest cutouts 230’ or the largest tabs 232’ in the first set of serrations 312. Also, while in the depicted embodiment the first set of serrations 312 extends across the middle point of the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ of the packaging 200, the first set of serrations 312 may be located at any position along the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ for tearing the packaging 200 at that position without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0072] It will be appreciated that the first, second, and third sets of serrations 312, 314, 320 may each define the cutouts 230’ having the same or different angles to define desired points or locations to facilitate opening of the package. In embodiments, the cutouts 230’ defined by the first, second, and third set of serrations 312. 314, 320 each have the same angle, which is less than 90 degrees. In embodiments, the cutouts 230’ of the first set of serrations 312 have an1137212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 angle of less than 90 degrees, and the cutouts 230’ defined by the second and third sets of serrations 314. 320 each have an angle of 90 degrees or greater. In still other embodiments, the cutouts 230’ of the first set of serrations 312 may have an angle of 90 degrees or greater, and the cutouts 230’ of the second and third sets of serrations 314, 320 have an angle of less than 90 degrees.

[0073] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the packaging 200 of FIGS. 5 - 7. In the embodiment of FIGS. 8 and 9, like elements with the packaging 200 of FIGS. 5 - 7 are denoted with the same reference numerals but followed by a primed suffix ('). FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the packaging 200 where the first set of serrations 312’ is interposed between and separates straight edges 400 along the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ in the lateral direction. The straight edges 400 are respectively interposed between and separate the first set of serrations 312 and the third side 220’ or the fourth side 222’, along the first side 202’ and the second side 204’ in the lateral direction.

[0074] FIG. 9 depicts an enlarged view of the first set of serrations 312’ at the second side 204’ of the packaging 200. As shown in FIG. 9, the straight edges 400 extend flatly outward from the first set of serrations 312’ in the lateral direction.

[0075] Referring back to FIG. 8, the straight edges 400 lack serrations or other irregularities that would amplify a shear force generated by a user at the first side 202’ or the second side 204’. With this construction, when a user generates a shear force at the first side 202’ or the second side 204’, the straight edges 400 are less likely to tear as compared to the first set of serrations 312’.

[0076] As such, when a user generates a shear force at a location including the first set of serrations 312’ and at least one straight edge 400, the at least one straight edge 400 transfers the shear force from the user to the first set of serrations 312’. causing the packaging 200 to tear open at the first set of serrations 312’. Notably, the straight edges 400 are more resistant to tearing as compared to an edge having an interior comer or a curve. Thus, the straight edges 400 may transfer a greater amount of shear force, and more reliably focus a shear force from a user to the first set of serrations 312’ as compared to edges having an interior comer or a curve.

[0077] FIG. 10 depicts a diagram of an exemplary flow wrapper 500 that may produce the packaging 200 as depicted in any of FIGS. 1 - 9. The flow wrapper 500 is a horizontal formfill-seal (HFFS) machine that, in the depicted embodiment, produces MDO PE packaging such as the packaging 200. While this embodiment is shown with respect to a horizontal form-fill- seal machine, it will be appreciated that a package employing the present technology may be1237212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 formed by other suitable methods including, but not limited to, vertical form-fill-seal technology.

[0078] While in the depicted embodiment the flow wrapper 500 produces MDO PE packaging, the flow wrapper 500 may additionally or alternatively produce the packaging 200 from polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene vinyl alcohol, polylactic acid, laminated paper packaging, or a variety of other flexible pouch packaging materials without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the packaging material can be formed from one or more fdm layers, which may be the same or different from one another in terms of materials or composition of the film layer, the orientation of the film, and / or the manner in which the film is made. The packaging material can include a layer or layers that are selected from cast films or blown films. In embodiments, one or more of the layers comprises a film that is stretched in the machine direction (a machine-direction oriented “MDO” film). In embodiments, the packaging material comprises one or more layers formed from a blown film that is optionally machinedirection oriented. The packaging material may optionally include one or more layers that are biaxially oriented (BIAX) materials (i.e. , oriented in both the machine direction and in the lateral direction). Biaxially oriented film can be oriented in two different way s, sequentially and simultaneously. In the sequential orientation process, the film is first oriented in the machine direction. After the machine direction orientation, the film is stretched independently in the lateral direction. In the simultaneous orientation process, on the other hand, the film is stretched at the same time in both directions in a single step. Biaxially7films can be stretched to the same degree in each direction or may be stretched to different degrees. The degree of stretching, whether for uniaxially stretched films or for biaxially stretched films may be selected based on the polymers used and the desired properties of the film(s) / packaging material. Typical stretch ratios depend on the polymer being used, but ratios as high as 10-12 times are possible with some polymers.

[0079] The package may be formed from any suitable polymer material. Examples of suitable polymer materials include, but are not limited to, a polyolefin, a polyester, a polyamide, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene vinyl alcohol, polylactic acid, laminated paper packaging, and the like. Examples of suitable polyolefins include, but are not limited to polyethylene, polypropylene, polybutylene, and the like. In one embodiment, the polyolefin is selected from polyethylene. The polyethylene is not particularly limited and can be selected from various types of polyethylene include, for example, a high density polyethylene, a1337212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 medium density polyethylene, or a low density polyethylene. It will be appreciated that the polymer film layer can be formed from a blend of polymers, e.g., a blend of different polyolefins, a blend of a particular polyolefin (e.g., a blend of different polyethylenes), and the like.

[0080] Examples of suitable polyester materials include, but are not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene isophthalate (PEI), poly cycloterephthalate (PCT), polytriethylene terephthalate (PT), and the like.

[0081] In embodiments, the material used to form the package has an Elmendorf Machine- Direction Tear Force of at least 30 g, at least 35 g, at least 40 g, at least 45 g, at least 50 g, at least 60 g, at least 70 g, at least 80 g, at least 90 g, at least 100 g, at least 110 g, at least 120 g, at least 130 g, at least 140 g, at least 150 g, at least 160 g, at least 170 g, at least 180 g, at least 190 g, at least 200 g, at least 225 g, at least 250 g, at least 275 g, at least 300 g, at least 325 g, at least 350 g, at least 375 g at 400 g, at least 425 g, at least 450 g, at least 475 g, at least 500 g , at least 525 g, at least 550 g, at least 575 g, at least, or even at least 600 g. In embodiments, the material used to form the package has an Elmendorf Machine-Direction Tear Force of from 30 g to about 600 g, from about 40 g to about 550 g, from about 50 g to about 500 g, from about 75 g to about 450 g, from abut 100 g to about 400 g, from about 125 g to about 375 g, from about 150 g to about 350 g, from about 175 g to about 325 g, from about 200 g to about 300 g, or from about 225 g to about 275 g.

[0082] FIG. 11 depicts a knife 600 employed in the flow wrapper 500 to cut the first side 202 and the second side 204 of the packaging 200. In this regard, the knife 600 is a rotary reciprocating blade that separates individual packages from the packaging 200 by cutting through the first side 202 and the second side 204. The knife 600 includes a cutting edge 602 shaped to cut the first side 202 and the second side 204 with a desired shape. In this manner, the knife 600 press cuts the serrations 214’ or the straight edges 400 into the first side 202 and the second side 204 of the packaging 200. While, in the depicted embodiment, the cutting edge 602 is shaped to press cut the serrations 214 depicted in FIGS. 3 and 4, the cutting edge 602 may be formed into a variety of shapes, including the serrations 214’ or the straight edges 400 depicted at the first side 202 and the second side 204 of the packaging 200.

[0083] Notably, because the straight edges 400 lack serrations, curves, comers, or other deviations from a straight direction to the third side 220 or the fourth side 222, embodiments of the packaging 200 including the straight edges 400 reduce a wear rate of the knife 6001437212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 employed in the flow wrapper 500 to produce the packaging 200. As such, packaging designs including the straight edges 400 or the relatively smaller serrations 310 may extend a continuous use cycle of the knife 600 in packaging production by the flow wrapper 500.

[0084] FIG. 12 depicts a back perspective view of the packaging 200. As show n in FIG. 12, the packaging 200 is formed with a vertical seal 700 extended in the machine direction from the first side 202 to the second side 204. The vertical seal 700 of the packaging 200 is a hermetic seam formed in the flow wrapper 500 by overlapping and thermally or adhesively sealing portions of the packaging 200 along the machine direction. The vertical seal 700 is relatively resistant to shear forces in the packaging 200 as compared to adjacent material forming a wall 702 of the packaging 200 that encloses the object 212. As such, when a user tears the packaging 200 from the first side 202 or the second side 204 at the vertical seal 700, the vertical seal 700 may guide a tear line in the packaging 200 in the wall 702 along the vertical seal 700, in the adjacent material, offset from the third side 220 and the fourth side 222 of the packaging 200.

[0085] The first set of serrations 312 may be aligned with the vertical seal 700, and guide a shear force from the user to the vertical seal 700. In this regard, in an embodiment, the first set of serrations 312 is located at the vertical seal 700. In a further embodiment, the first set of serrations 312 extends across a same position of the vertical seal 700 in the lateral direction of the packaging 200. With this construction, the packaging 200 guides a shear force from the user at the first side 202 or the second side 204 to the vertical seal 700 through the serrations 214’.

[0086] The serration pattern can be provided to create desired locations on a package that allow for opening of the package. In embodiments, a package can be provided having a pattern of serrations to provide a tear point that can create a pouch or bag that can be eaten from or poured from. FIG. 13 depicts an embodiment of a package 800 having a sealed upper end 810, a sealed lower end 820, a first vertical side 830, and a second vertical side 840. The first and second vertical sides 830 and 840 are sealed and each define a serration pattern. Side 830 comprises a first set 832 of serrations 833, a second set 834 of serrations 835, and a third set 836 of serrations 837. Side 840 comprises a first set 842 of serrations 843, a second set 844 of serrations 845, and a third set 846 of serrations 847. The first and third sets of serrations on sides 830 and 840 are configured to have a shear force that is more difficult to tear such that the package will be difficult to open at those locations. This could be, for example by providing serrations oriented at 90 degrees or greater (including substantially flat or smooth edges). The1537212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 second sets (834. 844) of serrations (835, 845) are configured such that the shear force to tear the package is reduced and creates a location for opening the package. The serrations in the second sets (834, 844) may be configured to have cutouts defining acute angles (i.e., angles of less than 90 degrees). In FIG. 13, the serrations in the second sets (834, 844) are also longer than the serrations / cutouts in the first and third sets. In FIG. 13, the serrations in the second sets (834, 844) are also generally aligned in the horizontal plane. This creates a location whereby the package can be opened along the plane of the second sets of serrations to form an opening so as to define a pouch or bag when the package is opened from one vertical end to the other. Such a package configuration could be suitable for single serve snack packages (e.g, for nuts, fruit snacks, candy, and the like), or for other items such as, but not limited to, frozen vegetables, cereal, popcorn, chips, and the like.

[0087] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subj ect matter of the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example aspects. Various operations of aspects are provided herein. The order in which one or more or all of the operations are described should not be construed as to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. Alternative ordering will be appreciated based on this description. Further, not all operations may necessarily be present in each aspect provided herein.

[0088] As used in this application, "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or" rather than an exclusive "or". Further, an inclusive “or” may include any combination thereof (e.g., A, B, or any combination thereof). In addition, "a" and "an" as used in this application are generally construed to mean "one or more" unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Additionally, at least one of A and B and / or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. Further, to the extent that "includes", "having", "has", "with", or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising”.

[0089] Further, unless specified otherwise, “first”, “second”, or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first channel and a second channel generally correspond to channel A and channel B or two different or two identical channels or the same channel. Additionally, “comprising”, “comprises”, “including”, “includes”, or the like generally means comprising or including, but not limited to.1637212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020

[0090] EXAMPLES

[0091] The effect of different serration configurations on the ability to tear a packaging material was evaluated. Testing was conducted on two different packaging films (films A and B) that are recyclable polyethylene cold seal laminations containing a combination of oriented and / or unoriented PE films. For each film, granola bar pouches were prepared. For each film, one set of pouches was prepared with serrations having a 90 degree angle, and one set of pouches was prepared with serrations having a 70 degree angle (Examples 1 and 2). recyclable polyethylene cold seal laminations containing a combination of oriented and / or unoriented PE films

[0092] For evaluating effectiveness of the serration configuration, the force needed to initiate tear of the packaging material is evaluated. This was done as follows based on the Elmendorf Tear Test, which is modified to tear open a finished package. First, the total force needed to open a finished granola pouch was measured. One end of the granola pouch was cut open and the product emptied out. The remaining end with the serrations is situated in the Elmendorf aperture so that the valley of the serration is directly centered in the aperture. The serration chosen for the test is not located in the fin seal area of the pouch (where four layers of material would be present). The Elmendorf Tear Test is then conducted as normal in a machine direction of the finished package, measuring Elmendorf Machine-Direction Tear Force of the finished package, with the following results listed in gram-force (gf).

[0093] Table 1 shows the total tear force (Ftotai) for each of films A and B. 20 different packages were tested for each serration pattern. From this, the average tear force was determined.

[0094] Table 11737212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020

[0095] The force necessary to propagate a tear was also evaluated. This was done by emptying a granola bar pouch. A standard notch utilized for Elmendorf tear testing is provided in the un-opened end of the pouch. The notched pouch is placed in the Elmendorf aperture, and the test is conducted as normal. Table 2 shows the results for the evaluation of the propagation force (Fpropagation).

[0096] Table 21837212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020

[0097] The total tear force is the sum of the tear initiation force and the tear propagation force. The tear initiation force, therefore, is equal to the total tear force minus the tear propagation force. Table 3 shows the tear initiation force (Finitation) as determined by subtracting the tear propagation force from the total tear force.

[0098] Table 3

[0099] As shown in the results, providing a package with a serration configuration in accordance with aspects of the present technology provides for greater ease of opening of a package. More specifically, in embodiments of the packaging 200 formed from film A as the MDO material, the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314, and the third set of serrations 320 may each have a minimum length of 1 millimeter (mm) and a maximum length of 4 mm in the longitudinal direction, and a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 4 mm in the lateral direction, defining each of the first interior angles 322, the second interior angles 324, and the third interior angles 330 with a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees. In further embodiments that focus shear forces in the packaging 200 through the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314 and the third set of serrations 320, the second set of serrations 314, and the third set of serrations 320 may each alternatively have a minimum length of 2 mm and a maximum length of 7 mm in the longitudinal direction, and a minimum width of 2 mm and a maximum width of 7 mm in the lateral direction, defining each of the first interior angles 322. the second interior angles 324, and the third interior angles 330 with a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees.

[0100] Also, in embodiments of the packaging 200 formed from film B as the MDO material, the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314, and the third set of1937212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 serrations 320 may each have a minimum length of 1 mm and a maximum length of 4 mm in the longitudinal direction, and a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 4 mm in the lateral direction, defining each of the first interior angles 322, the second interior angles 324, and the third interior angles 330 with a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees. In further embodiments that focus shear forces in the packaging 200 through the first set of serrations 312, the second set of serrations 314 and the third set of serrations 320, the second set of serrations 314, and the third set of serrations 320 may each alternatively have a minimum length of 2 mm and a maximum length of 7 mm in the longitudinal direction, and a minimum width of 2 mm and a maximum width of 7 mm in the lateral direction, defining each of the first interior angles 322, the second interior angles 324, and the third interior angles 330 with a maximum angular magnitude of 20 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 80 degrees.

[0101] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subj ect matter of the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example aspects.

[0102] Various operations of aspects are provided herein. The order in which one or more or all of the operations are described should not be construed as to imply that these operations are necessarily order dependent. Alternative ordering will be appreciated based on this description. Further, not all operations may necessarily be present in each aspect provided herein.

[0103] As used in this application, “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. Further, an inclusive “or” may include any combination thereof (e.g., A, B, or any combination thereof). In addition, “a” and “an” as used in this application are generally construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form. Additionally, at least one of A and B and / or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. Further, to the extent that "includes", "having", "has", "with", or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising”.

[0104] Further, unless specified otherwise, “first”, “second”, or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first channel and a second channel generally correspond to channel A and channel B or two different or two2037212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 identical channels or the same channel. Additionally, "‘comprising”, “comprises”, “including”, “includes”, or the like generally means comprising or including, but not limited thereto.

[0105] Further, the term “in” as used to describe an object w ith respect to a given direction (e.g., an edge extended in a left-right direction) is intended to denote an orientation that is substantially parallel to the specified direction. In contrast, the term “along” as used to describe an object with respect to a given direction (e.g., an edge extended along a vertical direction) is intended to indicate that a feature or element possesses a common vector component in that direction, even if its overall alignment is not strictly parallel.

[0106] It will be appreciated that various embodiments of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives or varieties thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Also that various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.2137212014.137269075.1

Claims

Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020CLAIMS:

1. A packaging comprising: a first side and a second side opposite the first side in a first direction; and a third side and a fourth side opposite the third side in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, wherein the first side forms serrations along the first direction between the third side and the fourth side, where the serrations form acute interior angles in the packaging.

2. The packaging of claim 1, wherein each of the serrations defines at least one of the interior angles with an angular magnitude less than 80 degrees.

3. The packaging of claim 1, wherein each of the serrations defines at least one of the interior angles with an angular magnitude less than 70 degrees.

4. The packaging of claim 1, wherein each of the serrations defines at least one of the interior angles with an angular magnitude of from about 20 degrees to about 85 degrees.

5. The packaging of claim 1, wherein each of the serrations defines at least one of the interior angles with an angular magnitude of from about 20 degrees to about 85 degrees.

6. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the serrations are each offset from a comer of the packaging defined by two of the first side, the second side, the third side, and the fourth side.

7. The packaging of claim 6, wherein the serrations are a first set of serrations, and the packaging further comprises a second set of serrations or a straight edge that is interposed between and separates the first set of serrations from the comer, along the first side in the second direction.

8. The packaging of claim 7, comprising the second set of serrations, wherein the interior angles are first interior angles, and each serration in the second set of serrations defines at least one of second interior angles, each of the second interior angles having a greater angular magnitude than each of the first interior angles, and2237212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 the second set of serrations has a shorter maximum length in the first direction and a shorter maximum width in the second direction than the first set of serrations.

9. The packaging of any of claims 1-8, wherein the packaging is a sachet formed from a machine direction-oriented (MDO) material, a biaxially oriented (BIAX) material, a blown film, a cast film, or a combination of two or more thereof, and the packaging comprises a vertical seal extended in the machine direction from the first side to the second side.

10. The packaging of any of claims 1-9, wherein the packaging comprises a film selected from polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene vinyl alcohol, polylactic acid, paper, or a combination of two or more thereof.

11. The packaging of claim 1, wherein the packaging comprises a polyethylene film, and the serrations each have a minimum length of 1 mm and a maximum length of 7 mm in the first direction, a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 7 mm in the second direction, a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees.

12. The packaging of claim 11, wherein the serrations are first serrations, the interior angles are first interior angles, and the first side forms second serrations along the first side in the second direction, where the second serrations are interposed between and separate the first serrations from the third side or the fourth side, and define second interior angles, and the second serrations each have a minimum length of 1 mm and a maximum length of 4 mm in the first direction, a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 4 mm in the second direction, a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees.

13. The packaging of claim 11. wherein the serrations each have a minimum length of 1 mm and a maximum length of 7 mm in the first direction, a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 7 mm in the second direction, a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees.

14. The packaging of claim 13, wherein the serrations are first serrations, the2337212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 interior angles are first interior angles, and the first side forms second serrations along the first side in the second direction, where the second serrations are interposed between and separate the first serrations from the third side or the fourth side, and define second interior angles, and the second serrations each have a minimum length of 1 mm and a maximum length of 4 mm in the first direction, a minimum width of 1 mm and a maximum width of 4 mm in the second direction, a maximum angular magnitude of 80 degrees, and a minimum angular magnitude of 20 degrees.

15. A packaging comprising: a first side and a second side opposite the first side in a first direction; and a third side and a fourth side opposite the third side in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, wherein the first side forms a first set of serrations offset from the third side and the fourth side, and the first side forms a second set of serrations that is interposed between and separates the first set of serrations and the third side or the fourth side, the first set of serrations define first interior angles, the second set of serrations define second interior angles, and each of the first interior angles has a smaller angular magnitude than each of the second interior angles, or the first side forms a straight edge that is interposed between and separates the first set of serrations and the third side or the fourth side.

16. The packaging of claim 15, wherein the first side forms the second set of serrations, and each serration in the first set of serrations is longer in the first direction or wider in the second direction as compared to each serration in the second set of serrations.

17. The packaging of claim 15, wherein the first side forms a third set of serrations on a side of the first set of serrations opposite the second set of serrations in the second direction, such that the first set of serrations is interposed between and separates the second set of serrations and the third set of serrations in the second direction, and the third set of serrations defines third interior angles, each of the third interior angles having a greater angular magnitude than each of the first interior angles.

18. The packaging of claim 17, wherein the second interior angles and the third2437212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-956655334-00020 interior angles each have a same angular magnitude, and extend along the first side from the first set of serrations to the third side or the fourth side.

19. The packaging of claim 15, wherein the first set of serrations is interposed between and separates straight edges, including the straight edge, along the first side in the second direction.

20. The packaging of claim 15, wherein the packaging is formed from a machine direction-oriented (MDO) material, a biaxially oriented (BIAX) material, a blown film, a cast film, or a combination of two or more thereof.

21. The packaging of any of claims 15-20, wherein the packaging comprises a material selected from a polyolefin, a polyester, a polyamide, ethylene vinyl acetate, ethylene vinyl alcohol, polylactic acid, laminated paper packaging, or a combination of two or more thereof.

22. The packaging material of claim 20 or 21, wherein the packaging comprises polyethylene.

23. The packaging material of any of claims 20-22, wherein the material forming the package has an Elmendorf Machine-Direction Tear Force of at least 30 g.

24. The packaging material of any of claims 20-22, wherein the material forming the package has an Elmendorf Machine-Direction Tear Force of at least 70 g.

25. The packaging material of any of claims 20-22, wherein the material forming the package has an Elmendorf Machine-Direction Tear Force of from 30 g to 600 g.

26. The packaging material of any of claims 20-22, wherein the package is formed from the MDO material, and the MDO material has Elmendorf Machine-Direction Tear Force of at least 30g.2537212014.137269075.1Atty. Dkt. No. IR-9566 55334-0002027. The packaging of claim 15, wherein the first interior angles are each less than 90 degrees.

28. The packaging of claim 15, wherein the first set of serrations and the second set of serrations form a single row of triangular tabs extended from the first side in the first direction, consecutive tabs in the first set of serrations and the second set of serration are contiguous with each other along the single row, the consecutive tabs in the first set of serrations define the first interior angles, and the consecutive tabs in the second set of serrations define the second interior angles.2637212014.137269075.1

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