CN117836213A

CN117836213A - Book type open packing box

Info

Publication number: CN117836213A
Application number: CN202280052609.6A
Authority: CN
Inventors: M·麦耶斯考夫
Original assignee: Split Park Ltd
Current assignee: Split Park Ltd
Priority date: 2021-07-27
Filing date: 2022-07-26
Publication date: 2024-04-05
Also published as: EP4377215A1; CN117836212A; EP4377216A1; GB202110800D0; GB2609401A; WO2023007148A1; WO2023007150A1; WO2023007149A1

Abstract

A package blank, a package blank roll, and a method for manufacturing a package blank or a package blank roll. The package blank is for use in a vertical form fill sealer to form a package. The package blank includes a cardboard outer portion and a liner. The card outer portion is perforated to define tear lines. The tear line extends from at or adjacent the top edge of the exterior of the card to at or adjacent the bottom edge of the exterior of the card. The liner is attached to the outside of the card by an adhesive disposed around the perimeter of the liner.

Description

Book type open packing box

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a recyclable carton for liquids, including a carton blank, a roll of carton blanks, and a method of manufacturing a carton blank.

Background

Packages for liquids, such as fruit juices, are typically made from a laminate formed from a cardboard (card) layer and a polymeric inner layer laminated to the cardboard to provide a sealed inner surface and to prevent the liquid contents from contacting the cardboard.

In such packages, it is not possible to easily separate the cardboard layer of the laminate from the polymer inner layer. The laminate cannot be easily recycled because the polymer layer prevents the card recycling process (typically mixing the card with water) from being performed on the card member. Because conventional packages are generally not recyclable, it is common practice for Material Recycling Facilities (MRFs) to reject any such packages when sorting and disposing of waste. Sorting is typically done by visual inspection of the material, so the MRF will typically reject any item that looks like a traditional laminated package.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a package blank for use in a vertical form-fill-seal machine, the package blank comprising: a card board exterior having: a top edge, a bottom edge opposite the top edge, and two opposite side edges; a tear line defined by a perforation line (a line of perforations, a series of perforations) extending from at or adjacent the top edge to at or adjacent the bottom edge; and a liner attached to the cardboard exterior by an adhesive disposed around the perimeter of the liner; wherein at least a portion of the perforation line is not perpendicular to either or both of the top and bottom edges.

By providing the package blank with a tear line, the package formed from the package blank can be easily retrieved. The user can open the package via the tear line in a book-like manner and easily remove the liner from the opened package, whereby both the cardboard exterior and the liner can be recovered.

Arranging the perforation lines such that at least a portion of the perforation lines is not perpendicular to either or both of the top and bottom edges is advantageous because it can prevent kinking of the package blank along the perforation lines when the package blank is rolled into a tube during a subsequent forming and filling process, which kinking may be detrimental to the forming and filling process.

In one example, the perforation line is not a single straight perforation line.

Providing the perforation line as not a single straight perforation line is advantageous in that it further reduces the chance of the package blank kinking when it is formed into a tube during the subsequent forming and filling process.

In one example, the top edge is arranged to form a top seam of the package, the bottom edge is arranged to form a bottom seam of the package, and the two opposing side edges are arranged to be joined together to form a side seam of the package extending between the top seam and the bottom seam.

In one example, the perforation line is a single continuous (perforation line).

Providing the perforation line as a single continuous perforation line is advantageous because it allows the package to be easily opened from the top seam to the bottom seam in a "book-like" manner, which makes it easier for a user to separate the cardboard exterior from the liner.

In one example, the perforation line comprises a plurality of sections, wherein one section thereof is a straight line, the plurality of sections being joined to form a continuous perforation line.

It is advantageous to provide a perforation line comprising a plurality of sections and one of the plurality of sections comprises a straight perforation line, as the straight perforation line is more easily torn by the user. A tightly curved perforation line may make it more difficult to tear the liner, as the tear will tend to preferentially continue straight through the cardboard outer material rather than following a tightly curved perforation line.

In one example, the perforation line includes a plurality of sections, wherein each section is a straight line, the plurality of sections joined to form a continuous perforation line.

In one example, the perforation line includes a first section and a second section, wherein the first section and the second section are straight perforation lines and the first section and the second section are not oriented parallel to each other.

In one example, the perforation line forms a rounded v-shape extending from at or adjacent the top edge to at or adjacent the bottom edge.

Providing the perforation line as a rounded v-shape may be advantageous, as it may make it easier for the user to open the package. The rounded tip of the v-shaped perforation line may provide a convenient starting point for the user to start opening the perforation line.

In one example, the adhesive is disposed around the entire perimeter of the liner.

In one example, the adhesive is disposed only around the perimeter of the liner.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a roll of package blanks for use in a vertical form-fill-seal machine, the roll of package blanks comprising a plurality of package blanks according to the present invention.

In one example, a roll includes a web of package blanks having a plurality of package blanks arranged longitudinally along the web and a plurality of package blanks arranged laterally across the web.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a package comprising a cardboard outer portion and a liner, the package being formed from a package blank according to any embodiment of the present invention.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pack comprising: a card outer portion including a perforation line defining a tear line; a liner adhered to the inside of the outside of the card; and a top seam, a bottom seam, and side seams extending between the top seam and the bottom seam; wherein the perforation line extends from or adjacent to the top seam to or adjacent to the bottom seam and at least a portion of the perforation line is not perpendicular to either or both of the top edge and the bottom edge.

In one example, the perforation line is not a single straight perforation line.

In one example, the perforation line is a single continuous perforation line.

In one example, the perforation line includes a plurality of sections, wherein each section thereof is a straight line, the plurality of sections being joined to form a continuous perforation line.

In one example, the tear line extends through a side of the package opposite the side seam.

In one example, the liner extends into one or more of the top seam, bottom seam, and side seam.

In one example, the liner extends into all seams of the package.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a package according to the present invention using a package blank according to the present invention, the method comprising: adhering two opposing side edges together to form a side seam; adhering the top edge to itself to form a top seam; adhering the bottom edge to itself to form a bottom seam; the package blank is folded along the crease lines to shape the package.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of handling a package according to the present invention, the method comprising: tearing the outside of the card along a tear line defined by the perforation line; opening the top and bottom seams; and separating the liner from the cardboard exterior.

The present invention relates to a package blank that can be formed into a returnable package. The package blank includes a cardboard outer layer and a liner attached to an interior of the cardboard outer layer. The cardboard exterior provides mainly the structural rigidity and strength of the package, while the inner liner contains the liquid inside and can provide a barrier to bacteria and contaminants. The package blank according to the invention comprises a tear line. When the package is disposed of after use, the user can open the package via the tear line, whereby the package is opened in a "book-like" manner. Peeling open the cardboard outer layer exposes the inner liner, which can then be easily separated from the cardboard outer. The cardboard outer and inner liners can be disposed and recycled separately. Advantageously, after the package of the present invention is opened via the tear line and separated from the liner, both components are no longer similar to conventional laminated packages and are not rejected by the MRF.

Drawings

The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1 shows a package.

Fig. 2 shows a rotated view of the package of fig. 1.

Figure 3 shows another rotated view of the package of figure 1.

Figures 4A, 4B and 4C illustrate the package of figure 1 being unfolded, opened along a tear line, and the liner removed.

Fig. 5 shows a cardboard outer blank for the pack blank of the pack of fig. 1-4C.

Fig. 6 shows a pack blank for the pack of fig. 1 to 4C.

Figure 7 shows a web of the package blank of figure 6.

Fig. 8 shows a schematic view of a vertical form-fill-seal apparatus.

Figure 9 shows a cross section A-A of a web of package blank during a portion of the vertical form fill seal apparatus of figure 8.

Fig. 10 shows the reverse (outer) side of the package blank of fig. 6.

Fig. 11 shows a package according to an alternative embodiment of the invention.

Figure 12 shows a cardboard outer blank for the package blank of the package of figure 11.

Fig. 13 shows a package according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14 shows a cardboard outer blank for the package blank of the package of figure 13.

Fig. 15 shows a package according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 16 shows a cardboard outer blank for the package blank of the package of figure 15.

Fig. 17 shows a package according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 18 shows a cardboard outer blank for the package blank of the package of figure 17.

Fig. 19 shows a package according to another alternative embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 20 shows a cardboard outer blank for the package blank of the package of figure 19.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a package 1 for a liquid, such as juice. The package 1 is a brick-type package having a cubic shape. The package 1 is formed by a card outer portion 2 and a liner 17 (not visible in fig. 1). A liner 17 is located within the cardboard outer portion 2 and contains the contents of the package, such as a liquid.

As shown, the card outer 2 has an opening 3. In some examples, the opening 3 is an insert, such as a plastic insert comprising a reclosable flap or screw cap. In other examples, the opening may have a pierceable membrane that may be pierced to provide access to the package. In other examples, the opening may have a peelable film adhered to the opening 3, which can be peeled away to expose the opening 3.

The package 1 shown in fig. 1 is cubical in shape having a top end 4 and a bottom end 5, opposite major side portions 6, 7 and opposite minor side portions 8, 9, the major side portions 6, 7 being larger in area than the minor side portions 8, 9. However, it will be appreciated that in alternative arrangements the minor side portions 8, 9 may have the same dimensions as the major side portions 6, 7, thereby providing a package having a square cross-section. In various examples, the relative dimensions of the major side portions 6, 7 and the minor side portions 8, 9 may be varied to provide packages of any size or shape. Other sizes and shapes of the package will be described with reference to fig. 11-20.

The opening 3 is formed in the top end 4 of the package 1, but the opening 3 may be formed in the bottom end 5 or on one side of the package 1. The package 1 is formed from a package blank (10, see fig. 6) which is folded and sealed to form the package 1 having three seams: a top seam 11 provided on the top end 4 of the package 1, a bottom seam 110 (shown in fig. 3) provided on the bottom end 5 of the package 1, and a side seam 12 (shown in fig. 1) extending between the top seam 11 and the bottom seam 110 through one of the major sides 6, 7 or minor sides 8, 9 (through the major side 7 in this example). The formation of the top seam 11 creates a pair of top flaps 13 on the top end 4 of the package 1, one of which is visible in fig. 1. As shown, the top flaps 13 are folded over the opposite major side portions 6, 7 or minor side portions 8, 9. Similarly, the formation of the bottom seam 110 creates a pair of bottom flaps 130 on the bottom end 5 of the package. The bottom flap 130 is folded over the bottom end 5 of the package 1. The top flap 13 and the bottom flap 130 are glued or otherwise attached to their folded positions.

As described above, the package blank 10 includes the cardboard outer portion 2 and the liner 17. To form the package blank 10, an adhesive is used to attach the liner 17 to the package blank 10. The liner 17 covers most of the surface of the cardboard outer portion 2. In a preferred embodiment, a plurality of edges of the liner 17 are aligned with corresponding edges of the card outer 2 and the remaining edges of the liner 17 are spaced from the corresponding edges of the card outer 2 to allow these edges of the card outer 2 to be glued when forming the package. Preferably, the liner 17 is attached to the cardboard outer 2 using an adhesive disposed around the entire perimeter of the liner 17. By adhering the liner 17 to the cardboard outer portion 2 around the entire periphery, the space between the liner 17 and the cardboard outer portion 2 is sealed against ingress of fluids (such as sterilizing fluids) in which the package blank 10 is immersed prior to forming, filling and sealing. By adhering the liner 17 to the cardboard outer portion 2 around the periphery of the liner 17, the liner 17 is secured within the resulting package 1 within the top and bottom seams 11, 110, although this is only the case in embodiments in which the corresponding edges of the liner 17 are aligned with the edges of the cardboard outer portion 2 used to form the top and bottom seams 11, 110. Thus, it should be appreciated that both the top and bottom seams have a sandwich structure that includes a cardboard exterior sandwiching two layers of liner material.

As shown in fig. 1, 2 and 3, the outside of the card includes a tear line 14. The tear line 14 is defined by a perforation line 15 in the card outer portion 2, which can be broken by a user. In the package formed from the blank, the perforation lines extend from at or adjacent the top seam 11, across one or more sides, and to at or adjacent the bottom seam 110. In one example, in a package formed from a blank, perforation line 15 extends from or adjacent top seam 11, across major side 6, and extends to or adjacent bottom seam 110. In a package formed from the blank, the tear line 14 thereby defines a line extending substantially along the length of the package along which the outside of the card may be ruptured by a user and the package opened. In alternative embodiments, the tear line may extend from at or adjacent the top seam 11, across either of the minor side portions 8, 9, and at or adjacent the bottom seam 110. The perforation lines 15 may extend from or adjacent the top seam across multiple sides of the exterior of the card panel before extending at or adjacent the bottom seam 110. As discussed in some embodiments, the perforation line 15 may extend from a point adjacent the top seam 11 to a point adjacent the bottom seam 110. In such embodiments, the perforation lines do not extend into either the top seam 11 or the bottom seam 110. When opening package 1, a user may tear the package blank along perforation line 15 and then open top seam 11 and bottom seam 110 to remove the liner. In some alternative embodiments, perforation line 15 may extend from a point spaced apart from top seam 11 to a point spaced apart from bottom seam 110. In such embodiments, when opening package 1, the user may tear package blank 10 along perforation line 15 and then be able to tear the remainder of the package blank to top seam 11 or bottom seam 110, which may then be peeled apart to open the package and allow the user to remove liner 17.

Perforation line 15 may include one or more sections. Each section is preferably a straight perforation line. When forming the perforation lines in the exterior of the card, it is preferable to form the perforation lines of each section as straight perforation lines may be more easily torn by the user, while closely curved or angled perforation lines may be more difficult to tear, as the tear in the card material will preferentially continue in a straight line rather than following perforation line 15. Thus, preferably, the perforation line 15 comprises a straight perforation line. The perforation lines of each section may extend in a different direction than the perforation lines in the adjacent sections. The perforation line may comprise a plurality of perforation sections. For example, the perforation line may comprise a first section and a second section, wherein both the first section and the second section are straight perforation lines. The first section may be parallel to and offset from the second section and joined to the second section by a third section. In some examples, the third section joining the first section and the second section may be formed as a curved perforation line. In this case, the curve is preferably relatively short compared to the section to minimize the adverse effect on tearing of the perforation line 15. In other examples, the two sections may be arranged at an angle relative to each other. The segments may be joined end-to-end.

The inventors have recognized that providing the perforation line 15 as a single straight perforation line may be problematic if the single straight perforation line is arranged longitudinally or substantially longitudinally (i.e., parallel or substantially parallel to the direction of the side seam 12). During the forming and filling process, the package blank forming the package is rolled into a cylinder. If the perforation line 15 is formed as a single straight perforation line arranged longitudinally along the package blank, this may cause the cylinder to become kinked along the perforation line 15, which may cause problems during the forming and filling process. In view of this, the inventors have realized that if a single straight perforation line is used, it should be oriented at an angle to the length direction such that the perforation line 15 extends diagonally across one or more of the major and minor sides of the package. As mentioned above, this problem may also be overcome by providing a perforation line comprising two or more sections, wherein the sections are arranged at an angle or offset with respect to each other.

In some embodiments, perforation line 15 defining tear line 14 forms a rounded V-shape along the length of the package, as shown in fig. 2. The V-shaped perforation line is formed by a first section and a second section, each formed as a straight perforation line. The first section and the second section may be joined end-to-end or may be joined by a third curved section. In some embodiments, the third curved section is oriented in the same direction as the V-shaped arrangement of the first section and the second section. In other embodiments, such as those shown in fig. 11-19, the third section may be oriented in a direction opposite the V-shaped arrangement of the first section and the second section. The V-shaped configuration is particularly advantageous as it can be formed using straight line sections and enables the perforation lines to be formed as continuous lines in the cardboard outer blank roll. Further, during the process of forming and filling the package, the continuous roll of package blanks is formed into a smooth tube, as will be described in more detail below. By forming the perforations in a V-shape, a continuous roll of packages is allowed to form into a smooth tube without deformation. Other arrangements of perforation lines comprising one or more straight sections may also provide these same advantages. It will be appreciated that the perforation line 15 may form any other suitable shape in the exterior of the card and extend from at or adjacent the top seam to at or adjacent the bottom seam 110 such that when the perforation line 15 is broken and the top seam 11 and bottom seam 110 are peeled apart, the user is able to open the package 1. It should be appreciated that in some alternative embodiments, the perforation lines may not extend all the way to one or both of the top edge 22 or bottom edge 23, enabling a user to tear the package blank 10 along perforation lines 15 and then peel top seam 11 and bottom seam 110 to open package 1 and remove liner 17.

In addition, the perforation lines may be arranged such that the starting point of the perforation line (e.g. on the top or bottom edge) and the ending point of the perforation line (e.g. on the bottom or top edge) are the same distance from the side edges of the package blank. By arranging the perforation lines in this way, the manufacturing process of the package blank can be simplified. As an example, when the package blank is formed into a continuous roll of package blank, the apparatus for perforating the exterior of the card to form the perforation lines may form the perforation lines into a single line that extends continuously along the card exterior roll.

The perforations forming the perforation line 15 may be defined by a perforation length, a perforation width, and a perforation spacing. The inventors have realized that if the length or width of the perforations is too large, liquid may enter through the perforations. If the perforations are sized so that liquid can enter through the perforations, additional adhesive may be used to seal the perforations to prevent this from occurring. However, this may make it more difficult for the liner 17 to separate from the card outer 2. Thus, the inventors have determined that in a preferred embodiment, the perforations should have a perforation width of 0.6mm, a perforation length in the range of 1mm to 1.5mm, and a perforation spacing in the range of 1mm to 1.5 mm. It should be understood that this is only an exemplary configuration and that other configurations of perforations that prevent liquid ingress may also be used. Alternatively, a configuration of perforations that do allow liquid ingress may be used, and in such examples, the perforations are sealed using an adhesive or other suitable means.

After the package 1 has been used (i.e. liquid is emptied from the package 1), the user may open the package 1 and separate the card outer 2 from the liner 17. Examples of processes by which a user may separate the cardboard outer 2 and the liner 17 are shown in fig. 4A, 4B and 4C. First, the user can break the glue holding the top flap 13 and bottom flap 130 in place. The user can then deploy the top flap 13 and the bottom flap 130 as shown in fig. 4A. The user may then compress the package slightly to expand the top and bottom seams 11, 110. The user may then destroy the perforation line 15. This can be achieved starting at the center point. In embodiments where perforation line 15 is formed in a V-shape, the center point may be the center of the V-shape. Forming the perforation lines in this manner may assist the user in breaking the perforation lines. The user may initiate tearing the perforation line at the center of the V-shape and then tear the perforation line in a straight line toward either seam. The user can break the perforation line 15 and open the package at the tear line 14. When opening the package, the user may peel the top seam 11 and the bottom seam 110 apart. In a preferred example, the liner 17 may be peeled off the associated surface of the cardboard outer portion 2 to open the seam. By peeling the seam, the liner is released from the card outer 2 along the top and bottom edges of the card outer 2 or can be easily peeled off the card outer 2. Thus, there is no need to provide a perforation line across the seam. Once the perforation lines have been broken and the top and bottom seams 11, 110 are peeled apart, the package may be opened in a book-like manner. The liner 17 remains secured to the card outer 2 along the side seams 12. The user may pull the liner to separate it from the cardboard outer portion 2. The two components can then be separately processed for recycling.

It will be appreciated that the cardboard exterior and liner may be separated by performing some of the steps of the method described above in a different order, or by omitting one or more of the steps described above and/or replacing one or more alternative steps.

As explained below, when the package 1 is formed by folding and sealing a package blank (10, see fig. 6), the edges of the liner 17 are incorporated into the sealing seams 11, 12 of the package exterior 2.

As a result, as shown in fig. 2, the liner 17 includes a sealing seam corresponding to the sealing seam of the card board outer 2. In particular, liner 17 includes top seam 11, bottom seam 110, and side seams 12, with side seams 12 extending between top seam 11 and bottom seam 110.

As will be further explained below, the liner 17 is adhered to the cardboard exterior 2 only in certain locations so that a user can separate the liner 17 from the cardboard exterior 2 after use. In one alternative, the liner 17 is adhered to the card outer 2 by a glue (glue) that is weaker and/or applied in a low weight (i.e., only a thin layer) so that the user can separate the liner 17 from the card outer 2 after use.

Fig. 5 shows a cardboard outer blank 21 for manufacturing a pack blank (10, see fig. 5) of the pack 1 described with reference to fig. 1 to 4C. The cardboard outer blank 21 is rectangular and has a top edge 22, a bottom edge 23 and opposite side edges 24, 25. Top edge 22 and bottom edge 23 are arranged to form top seam 11 and bottom seam 110, respectively, of the package. The opposite side edges 24, 25 are arranged to form side seams 12 of the package, which extend between the top seam 11 and the bottom seam 110.

As shown, the cardboard outer blank 21 includes a major side panel 26 corresponding to the major side 6 of the package 1 of fig. 1-4C. The cardboard outer blank 21 further comprises a first side panel 27 and a second side panel 28 corresponding to the opposite minor side portions 8, 9 of the package 1 of fig. 1. The cardboard outer blank 2 also has two main sub-panels 29, 30 adjacent opposite side edges 24, 25 which are then joined together at side seams (12, see fig. 1) to form the main side panel 7 of the package 1 of fig. 1.

The cardboard outer blank 21 further comprises a main top panel 31 and top sub-panels 32, 33, 34, 35 which provide the top 4 of the package of fig. 1 after the package 1 has been formed. The cardboard outer blank 2 further comprises main bottom end panels 36 and bottom end sub-panels 37, 38, 39, 40 which provide the bottom end 5 of the package of fig. 1 after the package 1 has been formed. In forming the package of fig. 1, the top end sub-panels 34, 35 and bottom end sub-panels 39, 40 are folded diagonally to provide a top flap (13, see fig. 1) 5 and a bottom flap 130.

As previously mentioned, the cardboard outer blank 21 also includes the opening 3. The opening 3 in this example is a through hole in the cardboard outer blank 21. The opening 21 is formed in the top sub-panel 33 such that the opening 3 is formed in the position shown in fig. 1 to 4C.

As shown, the cardboard outer blank 21 includes a plurality of crease lines 41 along the edge of each panel and along other fold lines (i.e., diagonally across the top and bottom end panels 34, 35, 39, 40 forming the top and bottom flaps 130 of the package 1). These crease lines 41 are preferably embossed lines formed by pressing the cardboard material to form creases to facilitate folding of the cardboard outer blank 21 along these lines during assembly of the package 1. However, the crease line 41 may alternatively be other lines of weakness or material changes to allow folding of the cardboard outer blank 21.

Crease lines 42 are also provided adjacent to the top edge 22 and bottom edge 23 of the cardboard outer blank 21, where a top seam (11, see fig. 1) and a bottom seam 110 are formed when the package 1 is assembled.

The cardboard outer blank comprises perforation lines 15. The perforation lines define the tear line 14 shown in fig. 1-4C.

In this example, the perforation line 15 extends from the top edge 22 of the cardboard outer blank 21, across the intersection of the main side panel 26 and the main top end panel 31, and into the main side panel 26, in the region of the main top end panel 31 proximate the intersection of the main top end panel 31 and the top end sub-panel 35. From there, the perforation line 15 defines a v-shape in the major side panel 26 with the center point located at the midline of the cardboard outer blank 25. The perforation line 15 then extends to the intersection of the major side panel 26 and the major bottom end panel 36. The perforation line 15 then extends into the main bottom end panel 36 and then to the bottom edge 23 of the cardboard outer blank 21 in the region of the main bottom end panel 36 proximate the intersection between the main bottom end panel 36 and the bottom end sub-panel 40.

It should be appreciated that the configuration of tear line 14 defined by perforation line 15 shown in fig. 5 is one preferred example. In other embodiments, tear line 14 may be defined by alternative means other than a perforation line, such as by a material, a change in material thickness, or by a score line. The tear line 14 may be configured in other shapes. In some alternative embodiments, the tear line 14 may be provided with a section for assisting the user in opening the tear line. The additional section may be provided as a "pull tab" or any other suitable means for assisting the user in opening the tear line 14.

The tear line 14 as shown in fig. 1-6 is shown extending into the main side panel 26. It should be appreciated that tear line 14 may be configured to extend into other panels of package 1. In some embodiments, the tear line may extend from the top edge through either the first or second sub-panel 27, 28 and/or either of the main sub-panels 29, 30.

The perforation lines preferably do not extend across the major sub-panels 29, 30 of the cardboard outer blank 21, which are then joined to form side seams of the assembled package.

Preferably, the perforation line 15 defining the tear line 14 extends from the top edge 22 at a point remote from the midpoint of the top sub-panel 35 or the midpoint of the top sub-panel 34. When the top end sub-panels 34, 35 are folded to provide the top flap 13, the stiffness and rigidity of the resulting package in this area increases. Ensuring that the perforation line 15 is remote from this area can assist the user in breaking the perforation line 15 when opening the package 1.

In the preferred embodiment, the top edge 22 and bottom edge 23 of the cardboard outer blank 21 are parallel. The perforation line 15 defining the tear line 14 extends from the top edge 22 to the bottom edge 23. In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of perforation line 15 is not perpendicular to top edge 22 or bottom edge 23. For example, at least a portion of the perforation line 15 may be oriented at an acute or obtuse angle relative to the top edge 22 and the bottom edge 23. As discussed above, the present inventors have realized that by providing perforation lines 15, at least one portion of which is arranged non-perpendicular to the top edge 22 or the bottom edge 23, this prevents any kinks from forming in the resulting package blank (formed from the cardboard outer blank 21) when the resulting package blank is formed into a tube (side edges 24 joined to side edges 25) during the subsequent forming and filling process. In some examples, only a portion of perforation line 15 defining tear line 14 may be oriented non-perpendicular to top edge 22 and bottom edge 23. In other embodiments, portions of perforation line 15 may be oriented other than perpendicular to top and bottom edges 23.

In some embodiments, the perforation line 15 defining the tear line 14 may be formed as a single straight perforation line oriented non-perpendicular to the top edge 22 and the bottom edge 23.

In embodiments in which at least a portion of one or both of the opposing side edges 24, 25 is perpendicular to the top edge 22 and/or the bottom edge 23, the perforation line 15 defining the tear line 14 may be arranged such that at least a portion of the perforation line is not parallel to the portion of one or both of the opposing side edges 24, 25 that is perpendicular to the top edge 22 and/or the bottom edge 23. Similarly, where one or more crease lines 41 are arranged perpendicular to the top and/or bottom edges, perforation lines 15 may be configured such that at least a portion of perforation lines 15 are not parallel to one or more crease lines 41 perpendicular to top and/or bottom edges 22, 23.

In some embodiments, the orientation of the perforation lines 15 defining the tear lines may be defined by reference to an axial direction, wherein the axial direction is aligned with the central axis of the resulting package blank when the resulting package blank is subsequently rolled into a tube during the forming and filling process. Thus, the perforation line 15 defining the tear line 14 is preferably arranged such that it is not parallel to the axial direction of the cardboard outer blank 21.

It will be appreciated that the perforation lines 15 defining the tear lines 14 may be arranged in any suitable manner so as not to kink or bend when the resulting package blank formed from the cardboard outer blank 21 is formed into a tube during subsequent forming and filling.

In a preferred embodiment, the perforation line 15 defining the tear line 14 extends through a panel (such as the main side panel 26) that is not adjacent to either of the opposite side edges 24, 25. In the embodiment of the cardboard outer blank 21 shown in fig. 5, the main sub-panel 30, the bottom sub-panel 38 and the top sub-panel 33 are adjacent to the side edges 25. Similarly, the main sub-panel 29, the bottom sub-panel 37 and the top sub-panel 32 are adjacent to the side edges 24. The perforation line 15 defining the tear line 14 preferably does not extend through any panel adjacent either side edge 25 or 24. The inventors have appreciated that providing a perforation line 15 defining a tear line 14 such that it does not extend through any panel adjacent either side edge 24 or side edge 25 provides a resulting package that is easier for a user to open to separate liner 17 from card panel exterior 2. This is because the adhesive in the side seam 12 causes the card board outer 2 and the liner 17 to adhere firmly in the area near the side seam 12, making it more difficult to begin separating the liner 17 and the card board outer 2 in this area. Thus, arranging the perforation line 15, and thus the tear line 14, so that it is spaced apart from the side seams 12 of the resulting package means that the user can open the package and begin to separate the card outer portion 2 from the liner 17 in an area having less adhesive holding the liner 17 and card outer portion 2 together.

In some embodiments, perforation line 15 extends from a point midway along or adjacent top seam 11 of the resulting package to a point midway along or adjacent bottom seam 110 of the resulting package.

In some alternative embodiments, the perforation line 15 defining the tear line 14 may extend from a point at or adjacent to one end of the top seam 11 of the resulting package to a point at or adjacent to one end of the bottom seam 110 of the resulting package. The inventors have realized that such an arrangement can allow a user to begin peeling apart the top seam 11 and/or the bottom seam 110 to separate the liner 17 from the cardboard outer portion 2 from one side of the respective seam, thereby making it easier and simpler to peel the seam and separate the liner 17 from the cardboard outer portion 2.

Wherein the resulting package has a non-square cross-section such as the brick-type package 1 shown in fig. 1. The brick package 1 has broad major sides 6, 7 and narrower minor sides 8, 9. Preferably, a perforation line 15 defining a tear line 14 extends through the main side portion. It will be appreciated that providing a perforation line 15 defining a tear line 14 extending through the major side of the package 1 makes it easier for a user to open the package 1 and separate the liner 17 from the cardboard outer 2.

In a preferred embodiment, the perforation line 15 defining the tear line 14 is arranged such that it extends through the side of the package 1 opposite the side seam 12. As discussed above, it may be more difficult to separate the liner 17 from the cardboard outer portion 2 when opening the package 1 in the region proximate the side seam. Thus, providing a perforation line 15 extending through the side of the package 1 opposite the side seam 12 ensures that the tear line 14 is properly remote from the side seam 12. In the preferred example, the card material of the card outer blank 21 is uncoated on its inner surface to allow for conventional recycling of the card outer 2. In particular, the cardboard outer blank 21 preferably comprises a liquid packaging panel. The liquid encapsulated panel preferably comprises a multi-ply paperboard with a strong wet sizing. Preferably, one or more edges of the cardboard outer blank 21 are resistant to wicking of water or other liquids.

Fig. 6 shows a package blank 43 formed by attaching the liner 17 to the cardboard outer blank 21 of fig. 5. The liner 17 is adhered to the cardboard outer blank 21 to form the package blank 43. As shown, the opening 3 is shown as hidden detail, as it is located below the liner 17.

In a preferred example, the liner 17 is a film material having a polymer composition. More preferably, the liner 17 is a laminate film material having a polymer layer and a metal layer (e.g., foil). However, in other examples, the liner may be made of other materials, for example the metal layer may be replaced by an ethylene vinyl alcohol (ethylene vinyl alcohol, ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, EVOH) film, which provides similar barrier properties. If EVOH is used as the barrier layer, a heat sealing system may be used to seal the liner, as described further below.

As shown in fig. 4, in this example, the liner 17 is rectangular and has a top edge 44 and a bottom edge 45 that coincide, i.e., are in line with, with the top edge 22 and bottom edge 23, respectively, of the cardboard outer blank 2. The liner 17 also has a first side edge 46 that coincides with the side edge 25 of the cardboard outer blank 21. Liner 17 also has a second side edge 47. In the preferred example, the second side edge 47 is spaced from the corresponding side edge 24 of the cardboard outer blank 21 as shown. The liner 17 covers a majority of the surface area of the cardboard outer blank 21.

The liner 17 is attached to the cardboard outer blank 21 by an adhesive around the perimeter of the liner 17. As shown, adhesive strips 48 are disposed along the first side edge 46 and the second side edge 47 of the liner 17, and adhesive strips 49 are disposed along the top edge 44 and the bottom edge 45 of the liner 17. In this example, the adhesive strips 48, 49 extend around the entire perimeter of the liner 17.

As shown in fig. 6, a region of adhesive 50 is also provided on the region surrounding the opening 3.

By arranging the adhesives 48, 49 in this manner, the area of the cardboard covered by the liner 17 is sealed when the liner 17 is attached to the cardboard outer blank 21. The adhesive strips 48, 49 around the perimeter of the liner 17 provide a seal to prevent liquid from entering between the liner 17 and the cardboard outer blank 21 at the edges 44, 45, 46, 47 of the liner 17. Without a seal between the liner 17 and the cardboard outer blank 21, liquid may penetrate the cardboard outer blank 21 during sterilization in which the combined liner 17 and cardboard outer blank 21 is submerged in a reservoir of sterilizing fluid. The inventors have determined that no adhesive needs to be applied to cover the perforation lines 15 defining the tear lines 14. The particular configuration of perforations used does not allow any significant ingress of sterilizing fluid during the sterilization process. Thus, it is only necessary to apply adhesive around the periphery of the liner 17 and around the opening 3.

As also shown in fig. 4, an adhesive strip 52 is provided along the side edges 24 of the cardboard outer blank 21. The adhesive may be a heat-activated glue (heat-activated glue) that can be applied to the cardboard outer blank. When the heat-reactivating glue is applied, the glue is absorbed into the cardboard material. When the two opposing side edges 24, 25 are brought together and the glue is subsequently heated, this causes the glue to activate and adhere to the cardboard outer material to form the side seams 12. The adhesive is preferably applied after the liner 17 is adhered to the card. Preferably, the adhesive strip 52 overlaps the side edges 47 of the liner 17 such that none of the material of the cardboard exterior 2 is exposed between the liner 17 and the adhesive 52. In an alternative example, the adhesive strip 52 is positioned adjacent to the side edge 47 of the liner 17. The adhesive 52 covers this area of the cardboard outer blank 21, thereby protecting this portion 11 of the cardboard outer blank 21 from contact with liquids or contaminants. An adhesive 52 is provided to form the side seams (12, see fig. 1) of the package (1, see fig. 1).

The inventors have recognized that in embodiments in which the adhesive 52 is a heat-reactivating glue, the glue should preferably be applied along both the side edges 24 and 25. The heat-reactivating glue applied along the side edges 25 should be applied on the opposite surface of the cardboard outer blank from the heat-reactivating glue applied along the side edges 24 so that when the cardboard outer blank is subsequently formed into a tube, the surfaces with glue meet. The inventors have recognized that if heat-activatable glue is applied to only one of the side seams, then the heat-activatable glue 52 may not have enough time to reflow (re-flow) and adhere to the side seams 12 when the package is subsequently formed on a high-speed form-fill machine.

In a preferred embodiment, no adhesive is provided between the liner 17 and the cardboard outer blank 21 over an area 53 covering a majority of their overlapping surface area, only in the bands 48, 49 extending around the periphery of the liner 17. In this way, the liner 17 can be separated from the cardboard outer blank 21 with a controlled pulling force when the package is opened via the tear line 14.

As described above, once the liner 17 is adhered to the cardboard outer blank 21, the adhesive 48, 49 provides a seal between the liner 17 and the side of the cardboard outer blank 21 to which the liner 17 is attached. The package blank 43 may then be sterilized, for example, in a peroxide bath (peroxide bath), without allowing sterilizing substances to enter between the liner 17 and the cardboard outer blank 21, as it is difficult to remove sterilizing substances therefrom before forming the package 1. If the sterilizing fluid reaches below the liner 17, the sterilizing fluid may also damage the cardboard outer blank 21.

It will be appreciated that by providing the package 1 with a tear line 14 allowing a user to open the package in a "book-like" manner, there is no need to form weak points in the liner 17 along the top edge 22 or the bottom edge 23 for ensuring that the liner 17 breaks at these points, for example if a user tries to remove the liner 17 from the package 1 through the opening 3 without opening the package 1.

As further explained below, and as shown in fig. 1-4C, the package 1 is formed by folding the package blank 43 and forming the sealing seams 11, 12 between the edges of the package blank 43. In particular, the heat-activatable glue 52 on the cardboard outer blank 21 is joined to the heat-activatable glue 52 on the opposite side edge 25 of the cardboard outer blank 21 to form the side seams 12. Thereafter, the top edges 22, 44 of the cardboard outer blank 21 and liner 17 are sealed to themselves to form the top sealing seam 11, and the bottom edges 23, 45 of the cardboard outer blank 21 and liner 17 are sealed to themselves to form the bottom sealing seam. When forming the top and bottom sealing seams, the liner 17 is clamped between the cardboard outer blanks 21, so that the edges 44, 45 of the liner 17 are joined into the top and bottom seams. Forming the top and bottom seams 11 creates top and bottom flaps 13, which top and bottom flaps 13 are then folded as shown in fig. 1. In this way, the weight of the liquid contained in the container is supported by the top seam. The increased thickness of the cardboard material and the adhesive present in the top and bottom seams (and side seams) provide the majority of the structural rigidity of the resulting package.

In an alternative example, the liner 17 also extends to the side edge 24 of the cardboard outer blank 21 or towards this side edge 24, so that the edge 47 of the liner 17 is also caught in the side seams 12 of the package 1. In this example, an additional line of weakness may be provided in the liner 17 adjacent the side edges 47.

In some embodiments, the thin strip of sealing material may be positioned to cover the edge 47 of the liner 17, the side edges 24 of the cardboard outer blank 21, or both, prior to forming the package 1. Preferably, the thin strip of sealing material is positioned such that about half of the strip overlaps the side edge 24 of the cardboard outer blank 21, the edge 47 of the liner, or both. During the process of forming package 1, when package blank 43 is formed into a tube, the depending sheets of sealing material overlap the opposite edges of package blank 43 and are secured using an adhesive. Thus, a sealing material can be used to seal the side seams 12. The sealing material may be a Polyethylene (PE) material or any other suitable alternative material. It should be appreciated that the sealing material can be initially secured to either side of the package blank 43.

As shown in fig. 7, when the package blanks 43 are produced, they are joined end-to-end in a web 57, which can be rolled into a roll. Specifically, in web 57 of package blanks 43 shown in fig. 7, individual blanks 43 are joined to one another along their top and bottom edges. In particular, the cardboard outer blank 21 is joined along its top and bottom edges 22, 23, and the liner 17 of each package blank 43 is joined along its top and bottom edges 44, 45. This is achieved by manufacturing web 57 from a cardboard web and a liner web that are joined together by an adhesive, as explained further below. The adhesive tape 52 (which forms the side seam 12) extends constantly along the edges of the web 57. The adhesive is disposed in web 57, extending in the tape:

In a constant band 58 adjacent, abutting or overlapping the adhesive tape 52. The constant strip 58 forms an adhesive strip 48 adjacent to the adhesive 52 on each package blank 43.

In a constant belt 59 extending along opposite side edges of the web. The constant strip 59 forms an adhesive strip 48 along the opposite side edges 52, 46 of each package blank 43.

In a transversely extending band 60 across the web 57 at the boundary between the two package blanks 43. These transversely extending strips 60 form adhesive strips 49 at the top edges 22, 44 and at the bottom edges 23, 45 of the package blank 43.

The laterally extending adhesive strips 60 are arranged such that a portion of each laterally extending adhesive strip 60 is applied to the top edge 22, 44 of one package blank 43 and the remaining portion of the adhesive strip 60 is applied to the bottom edge 23, 45 of an adjacent package blank 43.

Fig. 8 shows a schematic view of a vertical form fill seal apparatus 74. The vertical form fill seal apparatus 74 receives the above-described package blank web 57 and forms and fills it to produce packages, such as package 1 described with reference to fig. 1-4C.

As shown, the package blank web 57 is provided to a vertical form fill seal apparatus 74 and the package blank web 57 is initially formed into a vertically moving tube 75 by deforming the package blank web 57 until the opposite side edges 24, 25 of the exterior of the card overlap (with one or more adhesive strips 52 disposed between the opposite side edges 24, 25), as shown in fig. 9. The package blank web 57 is formed into a tube by using guides and/or guide rollers.

Heat and pressure rollers (not shown) act on the overlapping side edges 24, 25 of the package blank web 57 to activate the adhesive 52, thereby joining the opposite side edges 24, 25 together to form the side seams 12 of the package 1 (see fig. 1-4C).

A filling tube (not shown) extends into the vertical web tube 75 from above and the contents of the package (e.g. juice) are dosed into the vertical web tube 75 through the filling tube. The liquids are metered (closed) sequentially with an end seal assembly 77 described below.

As shown in fig. 8, the end seal assembly 77 simultaneously forms the top seam 11 of the first package 1a and the bottom seam 110 of the second package 1b, while sequentially dosing the contents into the second package 1 b.

Preferably, the end seal assembly 77 includes an induction sealer 78 that induces heat in the metal components of the liner 17 to fuse the opposing portions of the liner 17 together to create the seam 11. The induction sealing machine comprises an induction sealing strip 79 which is wide enough to simultaneously produce a top seam 11 of the first package 1a and a bottom seam 110 of the second package 1 b. Several stages of induction sealing may be provided to ensure an intact seal. As shown in fig. 8, the apparatus 74 has a two-stage induction sealer 78.

In other examples, liner 17 may not include a metal component, in which case end seal assembly 77 may include a heat seal strip for heating the liner material to form the seam. Alternatively, the package blank 43 of web 57 is manufactured using an adhesive for the top and bottom seams that can be heated and cured via induction. In such examples, the sealing assembly 77 comprises an induction sealing strip that heats and cures the adhesive to form a seam.

In other examples, different types of sealing machines may be used to form the sealing seams 11, 12. In particular, the sealer may be a heat sealer, an induction sealer, an ultrasonic sealer, or other type of sealer, depending on the materials of the cardboard web 63 and the liner web 68. In some examples, the sealer may apply adhesive to the package blank web 57 to form the seams 11, 12.

The formed package 1a is then individually cut through the sealing seam 11. Preferably, one of the sealing strips 79 (e.g. sealing strip 79 of the last induction sealer 78) comprises a cutting blade separating the packages 1a, 1 b. The formed package 1 then enters a folder (not shown) which folds the top and bottom end flaps (13, see fig. 1) into position to provide a formed package 1 such as that shown in fig. 1.

Advantageously, the vertical form fill seal apparatus 74 is prior art for laminating packages, which may also be used to produce packages 1 of fig. 1-4C from the package blank web 57 described with reference to fig. 7. Even more advantageously, the package blank web 57 is configured such that the package blank web 57 can be spliced into a vertical form fill seal device 74 that is currently producing other laminated packages, without the need to pause the vertical form fill seal device 74 to adjust one or more settings of the device 74 to produce new packages according to fig. 1-4C.

Fig. 10 shows the outer surface of the package blank 43, which is the opposite side as shown in fig. 3-6. As shown, an area of adhesive 80 may be provided to each package blank 43 on the opposite side of liner 17 (i.e., on the outside of package 1). The adhesive 80 may be a heat-reactivating glue. These areas of adhesive 80 are provided for securing the top and bottom end flaps (13, see fig. 1) in place on the erected package 1. An adhesive 80 is provided at each end of both minor side panels 27, 28 and on the sub-panels 34, 35, 39, 40 adjacent to the ends of the minor side panels 27, 28. After folding the end flaps (13, see fig. 1), the areas of adhesive 80 may be heated to activate them and adhere the end flaps (13, see fig. 1) in place on the package 1.

Fig. 11 shows a package 1101 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The package 1101 is formed by a card outer 112 and a liner 1117 (not shown). The liner 1117 is positioned within the cardboard exterior 112 and contains the contents of the package.

The package shown in fig. 11 is wedge-shaped having top and bottom ends 114 and 115 and opposite major sides 116 and 117.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the card outer 112 does not include an opening. To open the package 1101 to extract the contents, the user may cut, puncture, or tear the package 1101. For example, a user may use scissors to cut a corner on tip 114.

Package 1101 has three seams: top seam 1111, which forms top end 114 of package 1101; a bottom seam (not shown) disposed on the bottom end 115 of the package 1101; and side seams 1112 (not shown) extending through one of the main sides 116, 117 (in this example through the main side 117) between the top seam 1111 and the bottom seam. The formation of top seam 1111 forms top end 114 of the package. The bottom seam is formed similarly to the brick package 1 and a pair of bottom flaps are formed on the bottom end of the package 1101. The bottom flap is folded onto the bottom end 115 of the package 1101 and glued into its folded position.

The package 1101 includes a tear line 1114 defined by a perforation line 1115 in the card outer 112 that corresponds to the tear line 14 of the brick-type package 1. Perforation line 1115 extends from top seam 1111 to bottom seam across one or both of major sides 116, 117.

Figure 12 shows a cardboard outer blank 1221 for use in manufacturing a package blank 1110 of the package 1101 shown in figure 11. The cardboard outer blank 1221 is rectangular and has a top edge 1222, a bottom edge 1223, and opposite side edges 1224, 1225.

As shown, the cardboard outer blank 1221 includes a major side panel 1226. The major side panels 1226 form the two major sides 116 and 117 of the package 1101. The opposite side edges 1224, 1225 are then joined together to form the side seam 1112. The cardboard outer blank 1221 also includes a main bottom end panel 1236 and bottom end sub-panels 1237, 1238, 1239, 1240 that provide the bottom end 115 of the package 1101 of fig. 11 after the package 1101 has been formed. In forming the package 1101 of fig. 11, the bottom end sub-panels 1239, 1240 are folded diagonally to provide a bottom flap.

The package 1101 of fig. 11 is formed by attaching a liner 1117 to the cardboard outer blank 1221 of fig. 12 to form a package blank, and then folding and adhering seams to form a package.

Fig. 13 shows another alternative embodiment of a package 131. The package 131 is tetrahedral (tetrahedron) shaped having top and bottom ends and a main side 137. Similar to the package 1101 of fig. 11, the card outer 132 does not include an opening.

Package 131 has three seams: a top seam 1311 forming the top end 134 of the package; a bottom seam 13110 forming a bottom end 135 of the package 131; and side seams (not shown) extending through the main side 137 between the top seam 1311 and the bottom seam 13110. The formation of top seam 1311 and bottom seam 13110 form top end 134 and bottom end 135, respectively, of package 131. As shown in fig. 13, the top and bottom seams are arranged substantially perpendicular to each other to form a tetrahedrally shaped package 131. The package 131 includes a tear line 1314 defined by a perforation line 1315 in the card outer 132. A perforation line 1315 extends from the top seam 1311 to the bottom seam 13110 across the major side 137.

Fig. 14 shows a cardboard outer blank 1421 of a package blank 1310 for manufacturing the package 131 shown in fig. 13. The cardboard outer blank 1421 is rectangular and has a top edge 1422, a bottom edge 1423, and opposite side edges 1424, 1425. In some alternative embodiments, the cardboard outer blank 1421 may be square. As shown, the cardboard outer blank 1421 does not include panels or crease lines, such as the cardboard outer blank 21 of the brick package 1 or the panels or crease lines of the cardboard outer blank 1321 of the wedge package 131.

To form the package 141, the liner is adhered to the cardboard outer blank 1421, and then the opposite sides are joined to form the side seams 1412. Top edge 1422 and bottom edge 1423 are then used to form top seam 1411 and bottom seam.

Fig. 15 shows another alternative embodiment of a package 151. The package 151 is an asymmetric brick package having a top end 154, a bottom end 155, and major side portions 156, 157, 158, 159. The four major side portions 156, 157, 158, 159 have equal widths. The length of the major side 156 is less than the length of the opposite major side 157. Thus, the top 154 of the pack 151 is inclined toward the main side 156. The package 151 has an opening 153. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, package 151 may not include opening 153, and in such embodiments, a user may open package 151 by cutting, puncturing or tearing the package or by opening one of the sealed seams.

Fig. 16 shows a cardboard outer blank 1621 for manufacturing a package blank 1510 of the package 151 shown in fig. 15. The cardboard outer blank is rectangular and has a top edge 1622, a bottom edge 1623, and opposite side edges 1624, 1625.

The configuration of the cardboard outer blank 1621 substantially corresponds to the cardboard outer blank 21 of fig. 5. The cardboard outer blank 1621 includes a major side panel 1626 corresponding to the major side 6 of the package 151 of fig. 15. The cardboard outer blank 1621 also includes a first side panel 1627 and a second side panel 1628 that correspond to the opposing major sides 158, 159 of the package 151 of fig. 15. The cardboard outer blank 1621 also has two major sub-panels 1629, 1630 which are then joined together at side seams 1512 to form the major side 157 of the package 151.

The cardboard outer blank also includes a main top panel 1631 and top sub-panels 1632, 1633, 1634, 1635 that provide the top 154 of the package 151 of fig. 15 after the package 151 has been formed. The major top end panel 1631 extends between a top edge 1622 and a major side panel 1626. As shown in fig. 16, the primary top end panel is larger than the primary sub-panels 1629, 1630 in size parallel to the side edges 1624, 1625. The top sub-panels 1634, 1635 are shaped such that where they adjoin the main top panel 1631 and the top sub-panels 1632, 1633, their dimensions match the dimensions of the panels adjacent to them.

As previously described, the cardboard outer blank 1621 also includes an opening 163. An opening 163 is formed in the main top panel 1631 such that the opening is formed in the position shown in fig. 15.

As shown, the cardboard outer blank 1621 includes a plurality of crease lines 1641 along the edges of each panel and along other fold lines, as described with respect to other embodiments.

The cardboard outer blank 1621 includes a perforation line 1615 defining a tear line 1614 shown in fig. 15. In this embodiment, the perforation lines extend from the top edge 1622 along crease lines 1641 formed in the top sub-panel 1635 and into the major side panel 1626. From there, the perforation line 1615 forms a V-shape with a central tab section. The perforation lines 1615 then extend to the intersection of the major side panels 1626, and along crease lines 1641 formed in the bottom end sub-panel 1640 to the bottom edge 1623.

The package 151 of fig. 15 is formed by attaching a liner to the cardboard outer blank 1621 of fig. 16 to form a package blank and then folding and adhering seams to form a package.

Fig. 17 shows another alternative embodiment of a package 171. The package is a pillow pack having a top end 174, a bottom end 175 and opposite major side portions 176, 177. Similar to the package 1101 of fig. 11 and the package 131 of fig. 13, the card outer 172 does not include an opening. The arrangement of the seams 1711, 1712, 17110 and the tear line 1714 of the package 171 is the same as the arrangement of the package 131. However, when forming the package 171 of fig. 17, the top seam 1711 and the bottom seam 17110 are formed parallel to each other.

Fig. 18 shows a cardboard outer blank 1821 for manufacturing a package blank 1710 for the package 171 shown in fig. 17. The configuration of the cardboard outer blank 1621 is substantially the same as the configuration of the cardboard outer blank 1421 of fig. 14.

Fig. 19 shows another alternative embodiment of a package 191. Package 191 is an octagonal brick package having a top end 194, a bottom end 195, major sides 196, 197, 198, 199, and chamfer faces (chamfered corner face) 1916a, 1916b, 1916c, 1916d. As shown, the package 191 does not include an opening, however, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the package 191 may include an opening. The package includes a tear line 1914 defined by a perforation line 1915. The configuration of package 191 including seam and tear line 1914 is similar to that of the other package embodiments described above.

Fig. 20 shows a cardboard outer blank 2021 of a package blank 2010 for making the package 191 shown in fig. 19. The configuration of the cardboard outer blank 2021 is the same as the cardboard outer blank 21 shown in fig. 5 except for the shape of the side panels. As shown in fig. 20, the major side panels 2026, side panels 2027, 2028, and major sub-panels 2029, 2030 include thinned sections to accommodate inclusion of minor chamfer panels 2043a, 2043b, 2043c, 2043d.

The package 191 of fig. 19 is formed by attaching a liner to the cardboard outer blank 1921 of fig. 16 to form a package blank and then folding and adhering seams to form the package 191.

In this specification, reference is made to "adhesives", "low tack gums" and "heat-reactivating gums". It will be appreciated that the "adhesive" joining the liner 17 to the cardboard outer blank 21 around its periphery is a strong adhesive intended to provide a strong bond that is not destroyed by the user during normal use of the package 1. In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive is intended to be stronger than the cardboard material to which the adhesive is applied, such that when a user tears the top and bottom seams 110 to separate the liner 17, the adhesive will also pull the top layer of cardboard material away. Furthermore, the heat-reactivating adhesive is intended to provide a strong bond along the side seams 12 of the package 1, which bond is not broken by the user during normal use. The low tack adhesive may have a low bond strength, it may be applied to a small area of the liner 17/cardboard outer blank 21, or it may be a peelable or non-permanent adhesive. Similarly, a "low weight" adhesive is a thinner adhesive layer applied, for example, by a gravure roll that is recessed. Those skilled in the art will be familiar with suitable adhesives, but preferred examples are acrylic latex or vinyl acetate adhesives. Preferably, the adhesive is heat activated.

It should be understood that the package 1 described herein may be used to contain any liquid, including but not limited to juice, milk, water, and other food products.

To solve various problems and advance the art, the present disclosure generally illustrates by way of illustration various embodiments in which the claimed invention may be practiced and provides superior packages, package blanks, and associated methods of manufacture. The advantages and features of the present disclosure are merely representative samples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. They are only used to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. It is to be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures and/or other aspects of the present disclosure are not to be considered limitations of the present disclosure as defined by the claims or limitations of equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and/or spirit of the present disclosure. Various embodiments may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, and the like. In addition, the present disclosure includes other inventions not presently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. A package blank for use in a vertical form-fill-seal machine, the package blank comprising:

a card board exterior having:

a top edge, a bottom edge opposite the top edge, and two opposite side edges;

a tear line defined by a perforation line extending from at or adjacent the top edge to at or adjacent the bottom edge; and

a liner attached to the cardboard exterior by an adhesive disposed around a perimeter of the liner;

wherein at least a portion of the perforation line is not perpendicular to either or both of the top edge or the bottom edge.

2. A package blank according to claim 1, wherein the perforation line is not a single straight perforation line.

3. A package blank according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the top edge is arranged to form a top seam of a package, the bottom edge is arranged to form a bottom seam of the package, and the two opposing side edges are arranged to be joined together to form a side seam of the package extending between the top seam and the bottom seam.

4. A pack blank according to any preceding claim wherein the perforation line is a single continuous perforation line.

5. A pack blank according to any preceding claim wherein the perforation line comprises a plurality of sections, wherein one of the sections is a straight line, the plurality of sections being joined to form a continuous perforation line.

6. A pack blank according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the perforation line comprises a plurality of sections, wherein each section is a straight line, the plurality of sections being joined to form a continuous perforation line.

7. A package blank according to any preceding claim, wherein the perforation line comprises a first section and a second section, wherein the first section and the second section are straight perforation lines and the first section and the second section are not oriented parallel to each other.

8. A pack blank according to any preceding claim wherein the perforation line forms a rounded v-shape extending from at or adjacent the top edge to at or adjacent the bottom edge.

9. A pack blank according to any preceding claim wherein the adhesive is provided around the entire periphery of the liner.

10. A pack blank according to any preceding claim wherein the adhesive is provided only around the periphery of the liner.

11. A roll of package blanks for use in a vertical form-fill-seal machine, the roll of package blanks comprising a plurality of package blanks according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A roll of package blanks as recited in claim 11, wherein the roll comprises a web of package blanks having a plurality of package blanks arranged longitudinally along the web and a plurality of package blanks arranged laterally across the web.

13. A package comprising a cardboard outer portion and a liner, the package being formed from the package blank of any one of claims 1 to 10.

14. A package, comprising:

a card outer portion including a perforation line defining a tear line;

a liner adhered to the inside of the card exterior; and

a top seam, a bottom seam, and side seams extending between the top seam and the bottom seam; wherein,

the perforation line extends from or adjacent to the top seam to or adjacent to the bottom seam, and at least a portion of the perforation line is not perpendicular to either or both of the top seam or the bottom seam.

15. The package of claim 14, wherein the perforation line is not a single straight perforation line.

16. A pack according to claim 14 or 15 wherein the perforation line is a single continuous perforation line.

17. A pack according to any one of claims 14 to 16 wherein the perforation line comprises a plurality of sections, wherein one of the sections is a straight line, the plurality of sections being joined to form a continuous perforation line.

18. A pack according to any one of claims 14 to 17 wherein the perforation line comprises a plurality of sections, wherein each section is a straight line, the plurality of sections being joined to form a continuous perforation line.

19. A pack according to any one of claims 13 to 18 wherein the tear line extends through a side of the pack opposite the side seam.

20. The package of any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the liner extends into one or more of the top seam, the bottom seam and the side seam.

21. A pack according to any one of claims 13 to 20 wherein the liner extends into all seams of the pack.

22. A method of manufacturing a package according to any one of claims 13 to 21 using a package blank according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the method comprising:

adhering the two opposing side edges together to form the side seam;

adhering the top edge to itself to form the top seam;

adhering the bottom edge to itself to form the bottom seam;

folding the package blank along the crease line to form the package.

23. A method of handling a package according to any one of claims 14 to 21, the method comprising:

tearing the cardboard exterior along the tear line defined by the perforation line;

opening the top seam and the bottom seam; and

the liner is separated from the exterior of the card.