US20060272288A1 - Small box shipper with internal inflatable bag - Google Patents
Small box shipper with internal inflatable bag Download PDFInfo
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- US20060272288A1 US20060272288A1 US11/145,311 US14531105A US2006272288A1 US 20060272288 A1 US20060272288 A1 US 20060272288A1 US 14531105 A US14531105 A US 14531105A US 2006272288 A1 US2006272288 A1 US 2006272288A1
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- Prior art keywords
- bag
- inflatable
- panel
- inflatable bag
- flat blank
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
- B65D81/02—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents specially adapted to protect contents from mechanical damage
- B65D81/05—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents specially adapted to protect contents from mechanical damage maintaining contents at spaced relation from package walls, or from other contents
- B65D81/051—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents specially adapted to protect contents from mechanical damage maintaining contents at spaced relation from package walls, or from other contents using pillow-like elements filled with cushioning material, e.g. elastic foam, fabric
- B65D81/052—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents specially adapted to protect contents from mechanical damage maintaining contents at spaced relation from package walls, or from other contents using pillow-like elements filled with cushioning material, e.g. elastic foam, fabric filled with fluid, e.g. inflatable elements
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a box shipper with an internal inflatable bag.
- the corrugated boxes are supplied to the shipper in a collapsed condition so that the boxes occupy less space. Each box must then be erected and taped before use by the shipper which may result in additional labor costs for shipping.
- the shipper typically maintains a supply of collapsed boxes for subsequent use.
- a packaging system comprises an inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and two heat seals each extending from the second side of the bag, the two heat seals spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart from the first side, the first end, and the second end of the bag, the two heat seals each bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel; and a flat blank to which the inflatable bag is adhered; the system adapted upon inflation of the bag to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
- an inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, comprises a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and two heat seals each extending from the second side of the bag, the two heat seals spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart from the first side, the first end, and the second end of the bag, the two heat seals each bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag; the bag adapted, upon inflation of the bag, to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
- a method of preparing a package comprises providing a flat blank having a first wall; and adhering an inflatable bag to the first wall of the flat blank, the inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and two heat seals each extending from the second side of the bag, the two heat seals spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart from the first side, the first end, and the second end of the bag, the two heat seals each bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag.
- a packaging system comprises an inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and a heat seal extending along the second side of the bag, the heat seal bonding an edge portion of the first inflatable panel to a corresponding edge portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag; and a flat blank to which the inflatable bag is adhered; the system adapted upon inflation of the bag to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
- an inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, comprises a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and a heat seal extending along the second side of the bag, the heat seal bonding an edge portion of the first inflatable panel to a corresponding edge portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag; the bag adapted, upon inflation of the bag, to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
- a method of preparing a package comprises providing a flat blank having a first wall; and adhering an inflatable bag to the first wall of the flat blank, the inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and a heat seal extending along the second side of the bag, the heat seal bonding an edge portion of the first inflatable panel to a corresponding edge portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a flat blank of the prior art
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the flat blank of FIG. 1 , after construction of the box;
- FIG. 2 a is a perspective view of another embodiment of the flat blank of FIG. 1 , after construction of the box;
- FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of the prior art
- FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag of FIG. 3 , taken along line 44 of FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag of FIG. 3 , taken along line 5 - 5 of FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of a folded inflatable bag
- FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag of FIG. 6 , taken along line 7 - 7 of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag of FIG. 6 , taken along line 8 - 8 of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of one embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 12 is a schematic cross sectional view of a portion of the bag of FIG. 11 , taken along line 12 - 12 of FIG. 11 ;
- FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of a portion of a side seal of a bag of the invention.
- FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 15 is an elevational view of an embodiment of an inflatable bag of the invention in an inflated state
- FIG. 16 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of another embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatable bag of the invention in an inflated state.
- “Inflatable bag” herein refers to a bag, pouch, or similar product, including one made from a single tubular web or two webs that have been sealed together, the bag capable of being inflated by mechanical means.
- the bag can be made by a C-fold arrangement, in which a single web of material is folded on itself to create a folded bottom (second end), and the two sides and top (first end) of the thus folded bag are sealed together at or near their respective edges.
- an inflatable bag will include a valve or other suitable means to inflate the bag when desired.
- “Flat blank” herein refers to a flat piece of material die cut or otherwise prepared such that it can be constructed into a container such as a conventional shipping box.
- the flat blank can have any suitable size, geometry, and composition, with suitable score lines and cuts as needed to facilitate subsequent construction into a container.
- the flat blank can be made from any suitable material, including paperboard, polymeric foam, corrugated board, rigid plastic, etc.
- the flat blank can be monolayer or multilayer in composition, and can be made from more than one of the above-stated materials.
- Heat seal herein refers to conventional impulse or constant heat sealing techniques, as well as alternative bonding processes, including without limitation RF (radio frequency) or ultrasonic sealing. Both continuous and discontinuous seals are included herein.
- Polymer and the like herein refers to homopolymer, copolymer, terpolymer, etc.
- FIG. 1 discloses a schematic plan view of a flat blank 20 of the prior art.
- Flat blank 20 includes a top box panel 22 , a bottom box panel 24 , side box panels 26 , 28 and 30 , end box panels 32 and 34 , and 36 and 38 , intermediate box panels 40 and 42 , cuts 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 , and score lines 52 , 53 , 54 , 55 , 56 and 58 .
- cuts 44 , 46 , 48 , and 50 are shown as having some dimension, i.e. having some gap between adjacent panels, those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that these are typically simple cuts in the paperboard or other stock that are very narrow in one dimension.
- Flat blank 20 is shown for illustrative purposes only, and it will be understood that the invention can be beneficially used in combination with a wide variety of containers made from paperboard, rigid foam, or other suitable materials die cut or otherwise prepared such that they can be constructed into a container such as a conventional shipping box.
- the flat blank can have any suitable size, geometry, and composition, with suitable score lines and cuts to facilitate subsequent construction into a container.
- alternative flat blanks can be constructed into boxes having a round or triangular cross section.
- FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a completed box 60 made from the flat blank 20 of FIG. 1 .
- box 60 includes top box panel 22 , side box panel 30 , and end box panel 36 .
- FIG. 2 a shows a perspective view of a completed box 62 that is similar in all respects to box 60 of FIG. 2 , but additionally includes a slot 37 adapted to accommodate the terminal portion of a flexible valve.
- FIG. 3 shows a schematic plan view of a conventional inflatable bag 70 .
- a commercial example of such a bag is a RAPID FILL® bag available from Sealed Air Corporation.
- Inflatable bags of this type, including a flexible valve, are disclosed e.g. in U.S. Pat. No. 6,561,236 (Sperry et al.), incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- the conventional bag is typically made with a monolayer, polyethylene construction.
- the bag can alternatively be made with a multilayer construction, and can optionally include one or more layers comprising a polymer that provides an oxygen barrier, such as polyamide.
- the material can be produced by known coextrusion processes, or alternatively by any other suitable process, including known lamination techniques.
- Bag 70 includes a first wall 72 and a second wall 74 (see also FIG. 4 ). These walls are joined by a fold located at a second end 76 of bag 70 .
- a heat seal 77 typically a trim seal, is disposed at or near a first side edge 78 of bag 70
- another heat seal 79 is disposed at or near a second side edge 80 of bag 70 .
- Bag 70 is thus made from a single ply of material that is folded on itself to create the first and second walls 72 and 74 , and sealed along its edges 78 and 80 .
- a valve 82 is disposed between walls 72 and 74 and projects from the first end 88 of the inflatable bag 70 . This valve 82 is conventional and well known in the packaging art.
- Bag 70 , and inflation valve 82 are further described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,561,236 (Sperry et al.). Any suitable valve can be employed in connection with the present invention.
- a heat seal 90 is disposed at or near the first end 88 of bag 70 .
- Segment 84 of first wall 72 , and segment 86 (see FIG. 4 ) of second wall 74 are defined by the material between seal 90 and edge 88 .
- Segments 84 and 86 are not typically sealed together. It will be understood to those of skill in the art that alternatively a bag useful in connection with the present invention can be made from two discrete plies of material that are sealed together along all four edges of the respective plies.
- FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag 70 of FIG. 3 , taken along line 4 - 4 of FIG. 3 .
- First wall 72 and second wall 74 are connected at second bag end 76 by a fold.
- Seal 90 joins together the first and second wall 72 and 74 respectively near the first end 88 of the bag 70 .
- Segments 84 and 86 form the extremity of walls 72 and 74 respectively at the first end 88 of the bag.
- first wall 72 is separated by a space from second wall 74 .
- FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a portion of bag 70 of FIG. 3 , taken along line 5 - 5 of FIG. 3 .
- First wall 72 is sealed to second wall 74 in the heat seal 79 located at or near the second side edge 80 of bag 70 .
- FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag 71 like that of FIG. 3 , but in which the bag has been folded on itself, along fold 92 , such that the first side edge 78 now overlays the second side edge 80 .
- Bag 71 is otherwise in all relevant particulars like bag 70 , but with the features described below with respect to FIGS. 7 and 8 .
- FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag of FIG. 6 , taken along line 7 - 7 of FIG. 6 . It can be seen that because of the folding over on itself of a portion of bag 70 to produce bag 71 , second wall 74 now forms essentially the entire exterior surface of bag 71 .
- FIG. 7 shows a first inflatable panel 73 overlying a second inflatable panel 75 . Panels 73 and 75 form between them a mouth 94 that is shown with some separation between wall 72 of first inflatable panel 73 , and wall 72 of second inflatable panel 75 . It will be understood that walls 72 may tend to remain together across much or most of their congruent contact before inflation of the bag.
- Mouth 94 provides an access area for insertion of an article to be packaged. An unsealed area is thus provided between first and second panels 73 and 75 .
- FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag 71 of FIG. 6 , taken along line 8 - 8 of FIG. 6 .
- Heat seal 77 as shown overlies heat seal region 79 .
- mouth 94 is shown with some separation between walls 72 , but walls 72 may tend to remain together across much or most of their congruent contact before inflation of the bag.
- FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag 95 of another embodiment of the invention.
- the inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag of FIG. 6 , but in which two heat seals 96 and 98 seal a portion of the first inflatable panel 73 to a portion of the second inflatable panel 75 .
- seals 96 and 98 each bond the two inflatable panels together in the respective heat seal areas, and do not simply seal the two walls of the first panel together, or the two walls of the second panel together.
- the heat seals 96 and 98 each extend from the second side of the inflatable bag, and extend toward the first side of the folded inflatable bag defined by fold 92 . However, the terminus of each of seals 96 and 98 will be spaced from fold 92 . This allows inflation of the bag to be accomplished in the inflatable regions 100 , 102 , and 104 of the bag 95 . The advantage of this is described further below.
- FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag 106 of another embodiment of the invention.
- the inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag of FIG. 9 , but additionally including heat seal 101 .
- heat seal 101 bonds the two inflatable panels together in the region of heat seal 101 , and does not simply seal the two walls of the first panel together, or the two walls of the second panel together.
- heat seal 101 extends substantially parallel to fold 92 and side edge 78 .
- the panels are not sealed together, however, along the entire extent of the distance from the terminus of seal 96 to the terminus of seal 98 . This permits an inflation medium such as air to circulate through the bag.
- An additional inflatable region 108 is defined by fold 92 and seal 101 .
- FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag 110 of another embodiment of the invention.
- the inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag of FIG. 10 , but additionally including heat seal 112 .
- heat seal 112 does not bond the two inflatable panels together in the region of heat seal 112 , but simply seals the two walls of the first panel 73 together.
- a similar seal 114 (see FIG. 12 ) seals the two walls of the second panel 75 together. Seals 112 and 114 are in the portion of the inflatable bag where the article to be packaged can be inserted into the uninflated bag. The first and second panels 73 and 75 are therefore not sealed together here.
- an alternative is to hot glue the relevant walls together, or use a double sided tape.
- Another alternative is to apply a non-sealable print surface to the facing surfaces of wall 72 in the region of the bag where the heat seals 112 and 114 are to be located.
- a seal bar or the like Upon application of a seal bar or the like to the bag, the two walls of the first panel 73 are sealed together, and the two walls of the second panel 75 are sealed together.
- the first and second panel 73 and 75 will not seal to each other.
- the glue, tape, or non-sealable print would require the application of the bonding medium to appropriate portions of the bag material at the time the bag is produced.
- FIG. 12 shows in cross section a portion of the bag of FIG. 11 , with seals 112 and 114 , and seal 96 .
- FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag of FIG. 11 , taken along line 12 - 12 of FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of a portion of a side seal 140 of another embodiment of an inflatable bag 142 of the invention.
- the inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag of FIG. 6 , but in which a heat seal 140 at or near the side edge 78 of the folded bag seals the second side of the first inflatable panel 73 to the second side of the second inflatable panel 75 (see also FIG. 16 ). Seal 140 bonds the two inflatable panels together in the heat seal area.
- FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag 115 of another embodiment of the invention.
- the inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag of FIG. 11 , but the heat seals that seal panels 73 and 75 together in selected regions of the bag are discontinuous in nature.
- discontinuous heat seal 126 is like seal 96 , but is shown as a series of localized heat seals, of any suitable shape, number and dimension, extending from the second side of the inflatable bag, and extending toward but spaced from the first side of the folded inflatable bag defined by fold 92 .
- discontinuous heat seal 130 is like seal 98 , but is shown as a series of localized heat seals, of any suitable shape, number and dimension, extending from the second side of the inflatable bag, and extending toward but spaced from the first side of the folded inflatable bag defined by fold 92 .
- Discontinuous heat seal 128 is like seal 101 of FIGS. 10 and 11 , but is shown as a series of localized heat seals, of any suitable shape, number and dimension, extending substantially parallel to fold 92 and side edge 78 .
- Discontinuous heat seal 132 is like seal 112 of FIG. 11 , but is shown as a series of localized heat seals, of any suitable shape, number and dimension.
- one localized heat seal can be disposed in each of four locations on the bag, such that the four localized seals together define the corners of a rectangle or square.
- two of the four corner locations can be the seals marked 126 and 130 .
- FIG. 14 also discloses in another embodiment an optional closure flap 120 which can be formed either integrally as an extension of wall 74 , or as a discrete member that is separately made and then adhered, e.g. by a suitable adhesive, heat sealing, etc., to the wall 74 .
- the closure flap 120 includes a base member 122 , the base member being longitudinally coextensive with bag 115 . At least a portion of base member 122 can be coated with an adhesive 123 .
- the adhesive used is e.g. a pressure sensitive adhesive, but can be any suitable adhesive, such as an adhesive activated by moisture or saliva.
- Suitable adhesives include thermoplastic hot melt adhesives, silicone adhesives, acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives, solvent cast adhesives, UV (ultraviolet) or EB (electron beam) cured acrylic adhesives, and the like.
- the adhesive can be covered with an optional but highly desirable release tape 124 .
- closure flap 120 is shown in a flat, open position.
- the bag When the bag is to be used to ship an article such as pharmaceuticals, books, medical supplies, electronic parts, and the like, the article is placed in the interior of the bag, and the release tape 124 is peeled from the closure flap 120 . This action exposes the adhesive 123 .
- the closure flap 120 With the adhesive layer thus exposed, is then folded towards the first wall 72 of the bag, and the closure flap 120 is then pressed against the first wall 72 to close the bag.
- FIG. 15 is an elevational view of an embodiment of an inflatable bag 106 of the invention in an inflated state.
- This bag is substantially an inflated version of the uninflated bag 106 of FIG. 9 .
- An article 130 is held or encapsulated within the inflated bag.
- the article may be completely encapsulated by the bag; in others, a portion of the article may be accessible from or exposed to the outside environment at the second side of the bag (in the case of FIG. 15 , the side of the bag facing the viewer).
- a feature of the inflated bag is that the seals 96 and 98 result, when the bag is inflated, in inflated terminal portions of the bag. These terminal portions, the result of the inflation of regions 102 and 104 of the bag 95 of FIG. 9 , offer additional protection for the contents of the bag during shipping and storage.
- FIG. 16 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag 142 of another embodiment of the invention.
- Bag 142 is like bag 71 of FIG. 6 , but includes a side seal 140 that is disposed parallel to side seal 77 .
- bag 142 When inflated, bag 142 forms a substantially tubular sleeve or cylindrical member.
- the interior of the bag can be accessed through either the opening 145 at the first end of the bag, or the opening 146 at the second end of the bag.
- bag 142 can optionally include a double sided tape 148 adhering relevant portions of interior facing walls 72 of bag 142 , such that an article that is inserted through opening 145 will be guided by the inverted U-shape configuration of the double sided tape, and thus be beneficially located generally in the central area of the bag.
- a double sided tape 148 adhering relevant portions of interior facing walls 72 of bag 142 , such that an article that is inserted through opening 145 will be guided by the inverted U-shape configuration of the double sided tape, and thus be beneficially located generally in the central area of the bag.
- the double sided tape can be configured as a U shape (as viewed in FIG. 16 ), so that an article that is inserted through opening 146 will be guided by the U-shape configuration of the double sided tape, and thus be beneficially located generally in the central area of the bag.
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an inflated bag 150 .
- Bag 150 before inflation is similar in construction and features to bag 95 .
- the inflatable bag can be used in a number of alternative ways in connection with a flat blank.
- the bag of the invention e.g. the bag of FIG. 9
- the bag of FIG. 9 in its uninflated state, can be adhered by glue, pressure sensitive adhesive, or any other suitable means, to a portion of a flat blank.
- a bag can be adhered to the bottom box panel 24 of FIG. 1 . This can be done at a manufacturing site, or at the site where the packaging of articles will typically take place.
- An article to be packaged can then be inserted into the mouth of the bag. Thereafter the bag can be inflated, and the box then closed. Alternatively, the box can be closed or nearly closed, and the bag then inflated.
- a slot 37 can be included in the flat blank that can accommodate the valve 82 . The box can be closed, with the valve 82 fed through the slot to provide access to the valve from outside the box, and the bag then inflated. Thereafter, if desired, the valve can be fed back through the slot, and if desired the slot can be covered.
- an article can be inserted into an uninflated bag of the invention. Thereafter, at the same location or a separate location, the bag can be inflated, and the inflated bag with the article disposed therein can be placed in a shipper box or other suitable container, and the box or container closed.
- the panels of the bag can be pre-printed with a graphic that visually guides the user in placing an article in the uninflated bag.
Abstract
An inflatable bag, folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, includes a first and second side, a first and second end, a valve, and two heat seals, each extending from the second side of the bag, spaced apart from each other and the first side and first and second end of the bag, and bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel, the bag adapted upon inflation of the bag, to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag. The inflatable bag can be adhered to a flat blank, or otherwise disposed in a box or on a box component. Upon inflation of the bag, an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag can be encapsulated by the bag. Alternative embodiments are also disclosed.
Description
- The present invention relates to a box shipper with an internal inflatable bag.
- Consumers frequently purchase goods from mail order or internet retailers. Many of these packages include small items such as pharmaceuticals, books, medical supplies, electronic parts, and the like. These items are normally packaged in small containers such as a box or envelope. To protect the items during shipment, they are typically packaged with some form of protective dunnage that may be wrapped around the item or stuffed into the container to prevent movement of the item and to protect against shock. One common packaging method uses corrugated boxes to hold the items to be shipped. The void spaces between the items and the inside walls of the box are filled with void-filling dunnage such as foam “peanuts,” air cellular cushioning materials, crumpled or shredded paper, and other air filled packaging materials. Typically, the corrugated boxes are supplied to the shipper in a collapsed condition so that the boxes occupy less space. Each box must then be erected and taped before use by the shipper which may result in additional labor costs for shipping. The shipper typically maintains a supply of collapsed boxes for subsequent use.
- In a first aspect, a packaging system comprises an inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and two heat seals each extending from the second side of the bag, the two heat seals spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart from the first side, the first end, and the second end of the bag, the two heat seals each bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel; and a flat blank to which the inflatable bag is adhered; the system adapted upon inflation of the bag to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
- In a second aspect, an inflatable bag, folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, comprises a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and two heat seals each extending from the second side of the bag, the two heat seals spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart from the first side, the first end, and the second end of the bag, the two heat seals each bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag; the bag adapted, upon inflation of the bag, to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
- In a third aspect, a method of preparing a package comprises providing a flat blank having a first wall; and adhering an inflatable bag to the first wall of the flat blank, the inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and two heat seals each extending from the second side of the bag, the two heat seals spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart from the first side, the first end, and the second end of the bag, the two heat seals each bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag.
- In a fourth aspect, a packaging system comprises an inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and a heat seal extending along the second side of the bag, the heat seal bonding an edge portion of the first inflatable panel to a corresponding edge portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag; and a flat blank to which the inflatable bag is adhered; the system adapted upon inflation of the bag to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
- In a fifth aspect, an inflatable bag, folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, comprises a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and a heat seal extending along the second side of the bag, the heat seal bonding an edge portion of the first inflatable panel to a corresponding edge portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag; the bag adapted, upon inflation of the bag, to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
- In a sixth aspect, a method of preparing a package comprises providing a flat blank having a first wall; and adhering an inflatable bag to the first wall of the flat blank, the inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and a heat seal extending along the second side of the bag, the heat seal bonding an edge portion of the first inflatable panel to a corresponding edge portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag.
- A detailed description of embodiments of the invention follows, with reference to the attached drawings, wherein:
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FIG. 1 is a schematic plan view of a flat blank of the prior art; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the flat blank ofFIG. 1 , after construction of the box; -
FIG. 2 a is a perspective view of another embodiment of the flat blank ofFIG. 1 , after construction of the box; -
FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of the prior art; -
FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag ofFIG. 3 , taken alongline 44 ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag ofFIG. 3 , taken along line 5-5 ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of a folded inflatable bag; -
FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag ofFIG. 6 , taken along line 7-7 ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag ofFIG. 6 , taken along line 8-8 ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of one embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 12 is a schematic cross sectional view of a portion of the bag ofFIG. 11 , taken along line 12-12 ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of a portion of a side seal of a bag of the invention; -
FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of another embodiment of the invention; -
FIG. 15 is an elevational view of an embodiment of an inflatable bag of the invention in an inflated state; -
FIG. 16 is a schematic plan view of an inflatable bag of another embodiment of the invention; and -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an inflatable bag of the invention in an inflated state. - “Inflatable bag” herein refers to a bag, pouch, or similar product, including one made from a single tubular web or two webs that have been sealed together, the bag capable of being inflated by mechanical means. In one embodiment, the bag can be made by a C-fold arrangement, in which a single web of material is folded on itself to create a folded bottom (second end), and the two sides and top (first end) of the thus folded bag are sealed together at or near their respective edges. Typically, an inflatable bag will include a valve or other suitable means to inflate the bag when desired.
- “Flat blank” herein refers to a flat piece of material die cut or otherwise prepared such that it can be constructed into a container such as a conventional shipping box. The flat blank can have any suitable size, geometry, and composition, with suitable score lines and cuts as needed to facilitate subsequent construction into a container. The flat blank can be made from any suitable material, including paperboard, polymeric foam, corrugated board, rigid plastic, etc. The flat blank can be monolayer or multilayer in composition, and can be made from more than one of the above-stated materials.
- “Heat seal” herein refers to conventional impulse or constant heat sealing techniques, as well as alternative bonding processes, including without limitation RF (radio frequency) or ultrasonic sealing. Both continuous and discontinuous seals are included herein.
- “Polymer” and the like herein refers to homopolymer, copolymer, terpolymer, etc.
-
FIG. 1 discloses a schematic plan view of a flat blank 20 of the prior art. Flat blank 20 includes atop box panel 22, abottom box panel 24,side box panels end box panels intermediate box panels cuts score lines cuts Score lines -
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a completedbox 60 made from the flat blank 20 ofFIG. 1 . As shown,box 60 includestop box panel 22,side box panel 30, andend box panel 36. -
FIG. 2 a shows a perspective view of a completedbox 62 that is similar in all respects tobox 60 ofFIG. 2 , but additionally includes aslot 37 adapted to accommodate the terminal portion of a flexible valve. -
FIG. 3 shows a schematic plan view of a conventionalinflatable bag 70. A commercial example of such a bag is a RAPID FILL® bag available from Sealed Air Corporation. Inflatable bags of this type, including a flexible valve, are disclosed e.g. in U.S. Pat. No. 6,561,236 (Sperry et al.), incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. - The conventional bag is typically made with a monolayer, polyethylene construction. The bag can alternatively be made with a multilayer construction, and can optionally include one or more layers comprising a polymer that provides an oxygen barrier, such as polyamide. In multilayer embodiments of the bag, the material can be produced by known coextrusion processes, or alternatively by any other suitable process, including known lamination techniques.
-
Bag 70 includes afirst wall 72 and a second wall 74 (see alsoFIG. 4 ). These walls are joined by a fold located at asecond end 76 ofbag 70. Aheat seal 77, typically a trim seal, is disposed at or near afirst side edge 78 ofbag 70, and anotherheat seal 79, also typically a trim seal, is disposed at or near asecond side edge 80 ofbag 70.Bag 70 is thus made from a single ply of material that is folded on itself to create the first andsecond walls edges valve 82 is disposed betweenwalls first end 88 of theinflatable bag 70. Thisvalve 82 is conventional and well known in the packaging art.Bag 70, andinflation valve 82, are further described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,561,236 (Sperry et al.). Any suitable valve can be employed in connection with the present invention. Aheat seal 90 is disposed at or near thefirst end 88 ofbag 70.Segment 84 offirst wall 72, and segment 86 (seeFIG. 4 ) ofsecond wall 74, are defined by the material betweenseal 90 andedge 88.Segments -
FIG. 4 shows a cross sectional view of a portion of thebag 70 ofFIG. 3 , taken along line 4-4 ofFIG. 3 .First wall 72 andsecond wall 74 are connected atsecond bag end 76 by a fold.Seal 90, as described above, joins together the first andsecond wall first end 88 of thebag 70.Segments walls first end 88 of the bag. As shown inFIG. 4 , for the sake of clarity,first wall 72 is separated by a space fromsecond wall 74. Although conventionallywalls valve 82 to expand thebag 70. -
FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a portion ofbag 70 ofFIG. 3 , taken along line 5-5 ofFIG. 3 .First wall 72 is sealed tosecond wall 74 in theheat seal 79 located at or near thesecond side edge 80 ofbag 70. -
FIG. 6 is a schematic plan view of aninflatable bag 71 like that ofFIG. 3 , but in which the bag has been folded on itself, alongfold 92, such that thefirst side edge 78 now overlays thesecond side edge 80.Bag 71 is otherwise in all relevant particulars likebag 70, but with the features described below with respect toFIGS. 7 and 8 . -
FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag ofFIG. 6 , taken along line 7-7 ofFIG. 6 . It can be seen that because of the folding over on itself of a portion ofbag 70 to producebag 71,second wall 74 now forms essentially the entire exterior surface ofbag 71.FIG. 7 shows a firstinflatable panel 73 overlying a secondinflatable panel 75.Panels mouth 94 that is shown with some separation betweenwall 72 of firstinflatable panel 73, andwall 72 of secondinflatable panel 75. It will be understood thatwalls 72 may tend to remain together across much or most of their congruent contact before inflation of the bag. Likewise, some space is shown betweenwalls first panel 73, and betweenwalls second panel 75, but in practice the respective walls may be in contact.Mouth 94 provides an access area for insertion of an article to be packaged. An unsealed area is thus provided between first andsecond panels -
FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of a portion of thebag 71 ofFIG. 6 , taken along line 8-8 ofFIG. 6 .Heat seal 77 as shown overliesheat seal region 79. Again,mouth 94 is shown with some separation betweenwalls 72, butwalls 72 may tend to remain together across much or most of their congruent contact before inflation of the bag. -
FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view of aninflatable bag 95 of another embodiment of the invention. The inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag ofFIG. 6 , but in which twoheat seals inflatable panel 73 to a portion of the secondinflatable panel 75. It should be noted (see alsoFIG. 12 ) that seals 96 and 98 each bond the two inflatable panels together in the respective heat seal areas, and do not simply seal the two walls of the first panel together, or the two walls of the second panel together. In the embodiment ofFIG. 9 , the heat seals 96 and 98 each extend from the second side of the inflatable bag, and extend toward the first side of the folded inflatable bag defined byfold 92. However, the terminus of each ofseals fold 92. This allows inflation of the bag to be accomplished in theinflatable regions bag 95. The advantage of this is described further below. -
FIG. 10 is a schematic plan view of aninflatable bag 106 of another embodiment of the invention. The inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag ofFIG. 9 , but additionally includingheat seal 101. Likeseals heat seal 101 bonds the two inflatable panels together in the region ofheat seal 101, and does not simply seal the two walls of the first panel together, or the two walls of the second panel together. - In the embodiment of
FIG. 10 ,heat seal 101 extends substantially parallel to fold 92 andside edge 78. The panels are not sealed together, however, along the entire extent of the distance from the terminus ofseal 96 to the terminus ofseal 98. This permits an inflation medium such as air to circulate through the bag. An additionalinflatable region 108 is defined byfold 92 andseal 101. -
FIG. 11 is a schematic plan view of aninflatable bag 110 of another embodiment of the invention. The inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag ofFIG. 10 , but additionally includingheat seal 112. Unlikeseals heat seal 112 does not bond the two inflatable panels together in the region ofheat seal 112, but simply seals the two walls of thefirst panel 73 together. A similar seal 114 (seeFIG. 12 ) seals the two walls of thesecond panel 75 together.Seals second panels - Another alternative is to apply a non-sealable print surface to the facing surfaces of
wall 72 in the region of the bag where the heat seals 112 and 114 are to be located. Upon application of a seal bar or the like to the bag, the two walls of thefirst panel 73 are sealed together, and the two walls of thesecond panel 75 are sealed together. However, because of the presence of the non-sealable print surface on the relevant portions ofwalls 72, the first andsecond panel -
FIG. 12 shows in cross section a portion of the bag ofFIG. 11 , withseals seal 96.FIG. 12 is a cross sectional view of a portion of the bag ofFIG. 11 , taken along line 12-12 ofFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of a portion of aside seal 140 of another embodiment of aninflatable bag 142 of the invention. The inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag ofFIG. 6 , but in which aheat seal 140 at or near theside edge 78 of the folded bag seals the second side of the firstinflatable panel 73 to the second side of the second inflatable panel 75 (see alsoFIG. 16 ).Seal 140 bonds the two inflatable panels together in the heat seal area. -
FIG. 14 is a schematic plan view of aninflatable bag 115 of another embodiment of the invention. The inflatable bag is like the folded inflatable bag ofFIG. 11 , but the heat seals that sealpanels discontinuous heat seal 126 is likeseal 96, but is shown as a series of localized heat seals, of any suitable shape, number and dimension, extending from the second side of the inflatable bag, and extending toward but spaced from the first side of the folded inflatable bag defined byfold 92. - Likewise,
discontinuous heat seal 130 is likeseal 98, but is shown as a series of localized heat seals, of any suitable shape, number and dimension, extending from the second side of the inflatable bag, and extending toward but spaced from the first side of the folded inflatable bag defined byfold 92. -
Discontinuous heat seal 128 is likeseal 101 ofFIGS. 10 and 11 , but is shown as a series of localized heat seals, of any suitable shape, number and dimension, extending substantially parallel to fold 92 andside edge 78.Discontinuous heat seal 132 is likeseal 112 ofFIG. 11 , but is shown as a series of localized heat seals, of any suitable shape, number and dimension. - In one variation of this embodiment, one localized heat seal can be disposed in each of four locations on the bag, such that the four localized seals together define the corners of a rectangle or square. For example, in the drawing of
FIG. 14 , two of the four corner locations can be the seals marked 126 and 130. -
FIG. 14 also discloses in another embodiment anoptional closure flap 120 which can be formed either integrally as an extension ofwall 74, or as a discrete member that is separately made and then adhered, e.g. by a suitable adhesive, heat sealing, etc., to thewall 74. Theclosure flap 120 includes abase member 122, the base member being longitudinally coextensive withbag 115. At least a portion ofbase member 122 can be coated with an adhesive 123. The adhesive used is e.g. a pressure sensitive adhesive, but can be any suitable adhesive, such as an adhesive activated by moisture or saliva. Suitable adhesives include thermoplastic hot melt adhesives, silicone adhesives, acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives, solvent cast adhesives, UV (ultraviolet) or EB (electron beam) cured acrylic adhesives, and the like. The adhesive can be covered with an optional but highlydesirable release tape 124. - In
FIG. 14 , theclosure flap 120 is shown in a flat, open position. - When the bag is to be used to ship an article such as pharmaceuticals, books, medical supplies, electronic parts, and the like, the article is placed in the interior of the bag, and the
release tape 124 is peeled from theclosure flap 120. This action exposes the adhesive 123. Theclosure flap 120, with the adhesive layer thus exposed, is then folded towards thefirst wall 72 of the bag, and theclosure flap 120 is then pressed against thefirst wall 72 to close the bag. -
FIG. 15 is an elevational view of an embodiment of aninflatable bag 106 of the invention in an inflated state. This bag is substantially an inflated version of theuninflated bag 106 ofFIG. 9 . Anarticle 130 is held or encapsulated within the inflated bag. In some embodiments, the article may be completely encapsulated by the bag; in others, a portion of the article may be accessible from or exposed to the outside environment at the second side of the bag (in the case ofFIG. 15 , the side of the bag facing the viewer). - A feature of the inflated bag is that the
seals regions bag 95 ofFIG. 9 , offer additional protection for the contents of the bag during shipping and storage. -
FIG. 16 is a schematic plan view of aninflatable bag 142 of another embodiment of the invention.Bag 142 is likebag 71 ofFIG. 6 , but includes aside seal 140 that is disposed parallel toside seal 77. When inflated,bag 142 forms a substantially tubular sleeve or cylindrical member. In this embodiment, the interior of the bag can be accessed through either theopening 145 at the first end of the bag, or theopening 146 at the second end of the bag. - In one embodiment,
bag 142 can optionally include a doublesided tape 148 adhering relevant portions of interior facingwalls 72 ofbag 142, such that an article that is inserted throughopening 145 will be guided by the inverted U-shape configuration of the double sided tape, and thus be beneficially located generally in the central area of the bag. - Centralized location of the article will generally maximize the cushioning protection afforded the article by the invention.
- In an alternative embodiment, the double sided tape can be configured as a U shape (as viewed in
FIG. 16 ), so that an article that is inserted throughopening 146 will be guided by the U-shape configuration of the double sided tape, and thus be beneficially located generally in the central area of the bag. -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of an embodiment of aninflated bag 150.Bag 150 before inflation is similar in construction and features to bag 95. - The inflatable bag can be used in a number of alternative ways in connection with a flat blank. In one method, the bag of the invention, e.g. the bag of
FIG. 9 , in its uninflated state, can be adhered by glue, pressure sensitive adhesive, or any other suitable means, to a portion of a flat blank. As an example, a bag can be adhered to thebottom box panel 24 ofFIG. 1 . This can be done at a manufacturing site, or at the site where the packaging of articles will typically take place. - An article to be packaged can then be inserted into the mouth of the bag. Thereafter the bag can be inflated, and the box then closed. Alternatively, the box can be closed or nearly closed, and the bag then inflated. In one embodiment, a
slot 37 can be included in the flat blank that can accommodate thevalve 82. The box can be closed, with thevalve 82 fed through the slot to provide access to the valve from outside the box, and the bag then inflated. Thereafter, if desired, the valve can be fed back through the slot, and if desired the slot can be covered. - Alternatively, an article can be inserted into an uninflated bag of the invention. Thereafter, at the same location or a separate location, the bag can be inflated, and the inflated bag with the article disposed therein can be placed in a shipper box or other suitable container, and the box or container closed.
- Those skilled in the art will understand that modifications in the invention can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed in the claims that follow. For example, in addition to the heat seals disclosed herein, the panels of the bag can be pre-printed with a graphic that visually guides the user in placing an article in the uninflated bag.
Claims (23)
1. A packaging system comprising:
a) an inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising
i) a first side,
ii) a second side,
iii) a first end,
iv) a second end,
v) a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and
vi) two heat seals each extending from the second side of the bag, the two heat seals spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart from the first side, the first end, and the second end of the bag, the two heat seals each bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel; and
b) a flat blank to which the inflatable bag is adhered;
the system adapted upon inflation of the bag to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
2. The packaging system of claim 1 wherein the two heat seals are parallel to one another.
3. The packaging system of claim 1 wherein the inflatable bag is a thermoplastic bag.
4. The packaging system of claim 1 wherein the box comprises a paperboard material.
5. The packaging system of claim 1 wherein the second inflatable panel comprises a closure flap, the flap adapted to fold over the second side of the inflatable bag, and adhere to an outer surface of the first inflatable panel.
6. An inflatable bag, folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, comprising:
a) a first side,
b) a second side,
b) a first end,
c) a second end,
d) a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and
e) two heat seals each extending from the second side of the bag, the two heat seals spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart from the first side, the first end, and the second end of the bag, the two heat seals each bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag;
the bag adapted, upon inflation of the bag, to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
7. The inflatable bag of claim 6 wherein the two heat seals are parallel to one another.
8. The inflatable bag of claim 6 wherein the inflatable bag is a thermoplastic bag.
9. The inflatable bag of claim 6 wherein the second inflatable panel comprises a closure flap, the flap adapted to fold over the second side of the inflatable bag, and adhere to an outer surface of the first inflatable panel.
10. The inflatable bag of claim 7 wherein the first side and the second end of the bag each comprise a fold.
11. A method of preparing a package comprising:
a) providing a flat blank having a first wall; and
b) adhering an inflatable bag to the first wall of the flat blank, the inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising
i) a first side,
ii) a second side,
iii) a first end,
iv) a second end,
v) a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and
c) two heat seals each extending from the second side of the bag, the two heat seals spaced apart from each other, and spaced apart from the first side, the first end, and the second end of the bag, the two heat seals each bonding a portion of the first inflatable panel to a portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag.
12. The method of claim 11 wherein the two heat seals are parallel to one another.
13. The method of claim 11 wherein the inflatable bag is a thermoplastic bag.
14. The method of claim 11 wherein the flat blank comprises a paperboard material.
15. The method of claim 11 wherein the second inflatable panel comprises a closure flap, the flap adapted to fold over the second side of the inflatable bag, and adhere to an outer surface of the first inflatable panel.
16. A packaging system comprising:
a) an inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising
i) a first side,
ii) a second side,
iii) a first end,
iv) a second end,
v) a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and
vi) a heat seal extending along the second side of the bag, the heat seal bonding an edge portion of the first inflatable panel to a corresponding edge portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag; and
b) a flat blank to which the inflatable bag is adhered;
the system adapted upon inflation of the bag to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
17. The packaging system of claim 16 wherein the inflatable bag is a thermoplastic bag.
18. The packaging system of claim 16 wherein the flat blank comprises a paperboard material.
19. An inflatable bag, folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, comprising:
a) a first side,
b) a second side,
c) a first end,
d) a second end,
e) a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and
f) a heat seal extending along the second side of the bag, the heat seal bonding an edge portion of the first inflatable panel to a corresponding edge portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag;
the bag adapted, upon inflation of the bag, to hold an article disposed between the first and second panels of the bag.
20. The inflatable bag of claim 19 wherein the inflatable bag is a thermoplastic bag.
21. A method of preparing a package comprising:
a) providing a flat blank having a first wall; and
b) adhering an inflatable bag to the first wall of the flat blank, the inflatable bag folded on itself to form a first inflatable panel and a second inflatable panel, the inflatable bag comprising
i) a first side,
ii) a second side,
iii) a first end,
iv) a second end,
v) a valve secured to the first end of the inflatable bag, and
c) a heat seal extending along the second side of the bag, the heat seal bonding an edge portion of the first inflatable panel to a corresponding edge portion of the second inflatable panel of the inflatable bag.
22. The method of claim 21 wherein the inflatable bag is a thermoplastic bag.
23. The method of claim 21 wherein the flat blank comprises a paperboard material.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/145,311 US20060272288A1 (en) | 2005-06-03 | 2005-06-03 | Small box shipper with internal inflatable bag |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/145,311 US20060272288A1 (en) | 2005-06-03 | 2005-06-03 | Small box shipper with internal inflatable bag |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060272288A1 true US20060272288A1 (en) | 2006-12-07 |
Family
ID=37492742
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/145,311 Abandoned US20060272288A1 (en) | 2005-06-03 | 2005-06-03 | Small box shipper with internal inflatable bag |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20060272288A1 (en) |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: SEALED AIR CORPORATION (US), NEW JERSEY Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KANNANKERIL, CHARLES;REEL/FRAME:016679/0831 Effective date: 20050426 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: EXPRESSLY ABANDONED -- DURING EXAMINATION |