Integrated Handle on Flexible Package Side Gusset
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible bulk packages often lack ergonomic and strong handles, making them difficult to carry and handle, as existing handles are typically positioned at the top and detach easily.
Innovation Solution
A method for manufacturing an integrated handle on the side gusset of flexible packages, involving sealing a handle patch on the side gusset laminate, creating parallel openings, and covering it with a patch that leaves an area unsealed, allowing the handle to form a continuous tube for enhanced strength and ergonomic positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If handles are positioned at the top as a patch, then the package structure is simple, but the handle strength is insufficient and it gets detached easily
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is merged with the side gusset to form an integrated structure. The handle patch is sealed to the side gusset laminate, and the cover patch is sealed over the handle patch while simultaneously sealing with the side gusset laminate, creating a unified structure that prevents detachment and enhances strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle position is moved from the top of the package to the side gusset, changing the spatial dimension of handle placement. This dimensional change allows the handle to be positioned at a different location on the package structure, providing both strength and ergonomic benefits.
2Ease of operation
If handles are positioned at the top, then manufacturing is simple, but the handle is not ergonomically designed for easy carrying and dispensing
Solution Approach 1:
The handle is repositioned from the top to the side gusset, changing the spatial arrangement to achieve ergonomic positioning. This allows consumers to carry the package at a more convenient height and position, improving ease of operation despite increased manufacturing steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle patch is sealed to the side gusset laminate before the final package assembly. The cover patch is then sealed over the handle patch, preliminarily forming the integrated handle structure before the package is completely assembled, which facilitates the ergonomic design.
3Ease of operation
If a cover patch is sealed over the handle patch completely, then the sealing is complete, but the handle loses flexibility and ergonomic comfort
Solution Approach 1:
The cover patch is sealed over the handle patch except for a predefined area between the two parallel openings, which is left unsealed. This local exception in the sealing creates a flexible region that maintains ergonomic comfort while the rest of the structure remains securely sealed.
Solution Approach 2:
The handle patch is divided into two sections by two parallel openings, creating a segmented structure. The unsealed area between these openings allows the handle to flex and conform to the user's hand, providing ergonomic comfort while maintaining structural integrity in other areas.
Data Source
AI summary
A method (100) of making an integrated handle (304) on at least one side gusset (308) of a flexible package (300) is provided. The method (100) includes steps of sealing a handle patch (222) on at least one half width of the side gusset laminate (218). Further, the method (100) provides parallel openings on the handle patch (222) such that a centre line of the two parallel openings coincides with centre lines of each half of the side gusset laminate (218). A cover patch (226) is sealed over the handle patch (222) overlapping the edges of the handle patch (222) and simultaneously with the side gusset laminate (218) all around, such that a predefined area is left unsealed between the two parallel openings. The longitudinal edges of the side gusset laminate (218) are folded such that the handle patch (222) comes on the outer surface of the continuous open tube (242) being formed. The continuous open tube (242) is thereby used for manufacturing the flexible package (300).