Flat Bottom Pillow Pouch Stability via Side Folding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Pillow-pouch packages have a narrow, single-edge base that makes them unstable and unable to stand independently, and existing solutions to address pinhole leaks and moisture penetration require film modifications or additional layers, increasing material thickness and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A method for making a flat bottom pillow pouch using a modified vertical form fill and seal machine with an extendable and retractable extension, folding device, and side folding members to create a package with defined edges and flaps that can stand on the bottom transverse seal without gussets, using the same film thickness as standard pillow pouches.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a narrow single-edge base is used for pillow pouch packages, then the package structure is simple, but the package becomes unstable and unable to stand independently
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a narrow single-edge base to a flat bottom structure by creating defined edges and flaps that extend in multiple directions. This dimensional change from a line-based support to a面-based support provides stability while maintaining structural simplicity through the folding mechanism
2Reliability
If film modifications or additional layers are added to address pinhole leaks and moisture penetration, then barrier properties improve, but material thickness and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates overlapping flaps that form multiple seal layers before the packaging process completes. These pre-formed overlapping structures provide enhanced barrier properties against pinhole leaks and moisture penetration through multiple sealing surfaces, eliminating the need for additional film layers or modifications
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution allows for a stable, hermetically sealed package that can stand upright, reduces film usage by 33%, and maintains consistent shelf-life with fewer pinhole leaks, using the same film thickness and material as standard pillow pouches without the need for crease lines.
Implementation Method 1
The machine applies a pair of heat-sealing jaws against the tube to form a transverse seal
Implementation Method 2
The metalized film layer, which is usually metalized with a thin layer of aluminum, provides excellent barrier properties
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a flat bottom pillow pouch that can stand upright on its bottom transverse seal. The flat bottom pillow bag can be made from the same film as a standard pillow pouch and requires less film than prior art stand up packages. The flat bottom pillow pouch disclosed herein has no gussets.