Overwrapped package with tamper indicating means

• US 4,865,198 A
• Filed: 02/01/1988
• Issued: 09/12/1989
• Est. Priority Date: 02/01/1988
• Status: Expired due to Fees

• Current Assignee: R J Reynolds Tobacco Company (R. J. Reynolds Tobacco)
• Original Assignee: R J Reynolds Tobacco Company (R. J. Reynolds Tobacco)
• Inventors: Butler, John P.
• Primary Examiner(s): Price, William
• Application Number:
  US07/150,944
• Time in Patent Office: 589 Days
• Field of Search: 206/807, 206/459
• US Class Current: 206/459.1
• CPC Class Codes: B41M 3/14 Security printing securities B42D25/29
• CPC Class Codes: B41M 5/38207 characterised by aspects not provided for in groups B41M5/385 - B41M5/395
• CPC Class Codes: B65B 61/025 for applying, e.g. printing, code or date marks on material prior to packaging
• CPC Class Codes: B65D 2401/55 based on a change or a contrast in colour
• CPC Class Codes: B65D 65/22 Details
• CPC Class Codes: B65D 77/003 Articles enclosed in rigid or semi-rigid containers, the whole being wrapped
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 206/807 Tamper proof

Abstract

The instant invention relates to processes for producing tamper-evident overwrapped packages as well as the products which are produced. These processes utilize various energizing sources to create tamper-evident patterns between the package surface and the underside of the clear overwrap film closure. Tamper-evident patterns can also be created between heat-sealed overlapping sections of the overwrap film.

Claims

1. A tamper-evident overwrapped package comprising:

(a) a package,

(b) a transparent film closure overwrapping the package and having at least one heat-sealed overlapped joint, and

(c) disruptible indicia means between the overlapped layers of the joint for indication of tampering with the heatsealed joint.

2. The package as defined in claim 1 wherein the indicia means is an ink imbedded in the joint to provide tamper-evidence.

3. The package as defined in claim 2 wherein the ink is a heat-activated adhesive ink.

4. The package defined in claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein the transparent film closure comprises a tear strip for gaining access to the interior of the overwrap.

5. The package defined in claims 1, 2, or 3 wherein the overwrapped package is an overwrapped package of cigarettes.