FLEXIBLE PACKAGE AND METHOD OF FORMING A CUFF
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A method of providing a flexible package as a bowl-like or cup-like container, comprising:
- providing a flexible package having at least first and second panels defining an inner cavity, the first and second panels each having respective interior and exterior surfaces, with a first cuff region defined along a portion of the interior surface of the first panel proximate a first edge portion;
providing a folding strip to the cuff region adjacent the respective inner surfaces, the folding strip comprising an upper and a lower strengthened portion with a region of weakness defined therebetween; and
manipulating the flexible package proximate the region of weakness to form a generally rounded access opening by folding a portion of the cuff region extending above the region of weakness until the portion of the cuff region extending above the region of weakness is inverted adjacent the exterior surfaces of the first and second panels.
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Abstract
A package having a foldable top region is provided. The package generally includes panel portions that at least partially define an interior cavity therebetween and accessible through an access opening. The top portion can provide a cuff member or cuff region that can be folded and unfolded to facilitate use of the package as a bowl or other cuffed container for material contents. The package can be adapted to hold its shape as a bowl or cuffed container. A reclosure member can be provided to facilitate re-sealing of the package. A folding strip, edge contours and stiffening members can also be provided.
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Citations
11 Claims
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1. A method of providing a flexible package as a bowl-like or cup-like container, comprising:
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providing a flexible package having at least first and second panels defining an inner cavity, the first and second panels each having respective interior and exterior surfaces, with a first cuff region defined along a portion of the interior surface of the first panel proximate a first edge portion; providing a folding strip to the cuff region adjacent the respective inner surfaces, the folding strip comprising an upper and a lower strengthened portion with a region of weakness defined therebetween; and manipulating the flexible package proximate the region of weakness to form a generally rounded access opening by folding a portion of the cuff region extending above the region of weakness until the portion of the cuff region extending above the region of weakness is inverted adjacent the exterior surfaces of the first and second panels. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11)
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5. The method of claim 5, further comprising notching the contour region.
Specification