Resealable flow-wrap pack for wet wipes

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing flow-wrap packs for wet wipes require complex removal systems involving die cuts and labels, making it difficult for users to remove single items conveniently and reclose the pack effectively, especially when multiple items are packaged.

Innovation Solution

A flow-wrap pack design featuring an extended fin seal that serves as a protective flap for a scored tear line, allowing single-handed operation, and a resealable strip with adhesive means, such as Velcro or pressure-sensitive adhesive, to facilitate easy opening and reclosing without the need for die cuts or labels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a complex removal system with die cuts and labels is used, then the pack can be reclosed after removing an item, but the operation becomes difficult and requires two hands

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereclosing functionVSAvoidsingle-handed operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fin seal is segmented into a scored portion and an extended portion, where the scored portion allows easy tearing for opening while the extended portion provides a flap for reclosing. This segmentation enables both reliable reclosing and simple single-handed operation by separating the opening and reclosing functions into distinct structural zones.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The extended fin seal flap serves dual purposes: it protects the tear line when closed and acts as a handle for reclosing after opening. The structure is self-sufficient, requiring no additional labels or complex mechanisms, and can be operated with one hand by simply folding the extended flap back into place.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If die cut operation and label application are implemented, then reclosing is enabled, but the manufacturing process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereclosing functionVSAvoidpackaging process simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The fin seal structure merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: sealing, protection of the tear line, and reclosing capability. By combining these functions into the extended fin seal itself, the patent eliminates the need for separate die cut operations and label applications, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining reliable reclosing functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The extended fin seal serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a seal, a protective cover for the tear line, and a reclosing mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and operations needed, making the packaging process simpler and more efficient while ensuring reliable reclosing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If the fin seal is extended to cover the tear line, then the tear line is protected and single-handed operation is enabled, but the seal length increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesingle-handed operationVSAvoidfin seal length
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The fin seal is pre-scored at a specific location during manufacturing, creating a predetermined tear line. This preliminary scoring allows the seal to be easily torn open by hand without requiring excessive force or complex mechanisms. The extended portion beyond the score provides the necessary flap for protection and reclosing, balancing the increased length with functional benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables convenient single-handed removal and reclosure of wet wipes, reducing moisture exposure and eliminating the need for die cuts and labels, thus enhancing user experience and packaging efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The resealable strip comprises means allowing the reclosing of the flow wrap pack. Said means may be a Velcro®, a fracture hot melt, a pressure sensitive adhesive or glue dots.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP3152125B1Resealable flow-wrap pack for wet wipes
Publication Date: 2020.09.23 AMCOR FLEXIBLES UK
  • EP3152125B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3152125B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3152125B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

The present invention relates to a flow-wrap pack (1) for wet wipes. The flow-wrap pack (1) has a film (3) defining a front wall (5) and a back wall (7), a longitudinal sealed seam in the form of a fin seal (9) and two transverse sealed seams (11) defining a product space. The fin seal (9) has an extended length and lies essentially flat against the back wall (7) of the wrap pack, thereby covering a scored tear line (13) and a resealable strip (15), said strip (15) extending between the transverse sealed seams (11) at an essentially right angle to the transverse sealed seams (11).