MX2009002164A - Package for wipes. - Google Patents

Abstract

A package for carrying and dispensing wipes is described. The package has a wallet-like configuration and includes a first compartment (12) separated from a second compartment (14) along a foldable seam. The package can be configured to carry any suitable wipes including facial tissue, bath tissue, and any suitable pre- moistened wipes.

Description

CONTAINER FOR CLEANING CLOTHS RELATED REQUESTS The present application is a continuation in part and claims the priority of the patent application of the United States of America series No. 11 / 513,498 filed on August 31, 2006.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Several types of disposable cleaning cloth products are currently available in the market. Such cleaning cloth products may include, for example, facial tissues, bath tissues, paper towels, napkins, and the like. In addition to dry products, saturated or pre-moistened cleaning products have also gained popularity in the recent past.

Saturated or pre-moistened cleaning cloth products are used in a variety of different cleaning and polishing applications. For example, pre-moistened cleaning cloths are commonly sold in a stack of individual folded sheets packed in a plastic container for use as baby wipes. In other applications, the cleaning cloths are treated with a antibacterial agent and packed as a sanitary cleaning cloth.

The previously moistened cleaning cloths are also produced containing a disinfectant and / or a cleaning composition. In these applications, pre-moistened wipes are used to clean and disinfect adjacent surfaces, such as countertops, floors, and bathroom surfaces.

Products previously wetted are also built to disintegrate when placed in the water over a period of time. These products are marketed as being disposable with water discharge "in a standard toilet." Such previously moistened wipes are gaining popularity as a replacement for dry bathroom tissue.

Cleaning cloth products, such as those described above, are packaged in several different formats. For example, cleaning cloth products can be packaged in containers made of plastic or cardboard. The package or package can be configured to contain a relatively large number of wiping cloths, or for some wipes moistened previously, configured to maintain only a single cleaning cloth. When required, however, it is a container to carry a relatively small amount of cleaning cloths for individual use. For example, in some applications, there is a need for a package for pre-moistened wipes which can be discreetly worn by an individual. Such a container, for example, can be particularly well suited to contain previously moistened cleaning cloths that can be discarded with flushing water in a toilet.

SYNTHESIS OF THE INVENTION In general, the present description is directed to a package for carrying the cleaning cloths. In one embodiment, for example, the package includes a first compartment containing a first product and a second compartment containing a second product. The second compartment can have a length and width that are essentially similar to the length and width of the first compartment.

The first compartment is connected to the second compartment along a seam that can be bent. In particular, the first compartment is folded over the second compartment around the seam. When in a bent configuration, an interior surface of the first compartment is facing an interior surface of the second compartment.

A first opening is located on the inner surface of the first compartment for removing the products therethrough and a second opening is located on the inner surface of the second compartment for removing the products therethrough.

In one embodiment, the package may have a portfolio type configuration. Even though the size and shape of the package may vary depending on the particular application, in one embodiment, the length and width of each compartment may be from about 2 inches to about 6 inches.

In general, any suitable product may be contained in the first and second compartments. In this aspect, the opening associated with each compartment may vary depending on the type of particular product contained within the compartment. In one embodiment, for example, the first product and the second product may comprise at least one cleaning cloth, such as a stack of cleaning cloths. The product of wiping cloths can be, for example, a facial tissue, a tissue for bathroom and the like. The product that is contained in the first compartment can be the same or different from the product that is contained in the second compartment. In a particular embodiment, the first compartment and the second compartment both contain moistened cleaning cloths previously. In an alternate embodiment, the first compartment may contain dry cleaning cloths, such as the facial tissue, while the second compartment may contain previously moistened cleaning cloths, such as pre-wetted bath tissue.

When designated to carry cleaning cloths, each compartment may contain from a cleaning cloth to about 25 cleaning cloths, such as from about 5 cleaning cloths to about 20 cleaning cloths.

It should be understood, however, that the various other products that may be consumed may be contained within the first and second compartments. Other products may be contained in compartments including, for example, liquid or semi-solid products, such as skin care compositions, cleaning agents including disinfectants, insect repellents and the like. Still other products that may be contained within the compartments include fragrance products, medicated pads, cosmetic products, non-woven pads, rubber gloves, finger gloves, condoms and the like. In a particular embodiment, the first product contained within the first compartment may comprise a product different from the second product contained in the second compartment. The first product and the second product, without However, they can be selected so that they are used together. For example, in one embodiment, the first compartment may contain a liquid or semi-solid product while the second compartment may comprise an applicator for the first product.

If desired, the opening defined by the first compartment and the opening defined by the second compartment can be sealed again. For example, in an embodiment, the openings may be covered by an adhesive label that can be peeled and resealed. The adhesive label can comprise a film defining a member that can be peeled or surrounded by a frame part. The member that can be peeled can be attached to the frame part along a fold line. In a particular embodiment, the member that can be peeled can include an appendage portion that extends beyond the perimeter of the frame portion.

In an alternate embodiment, each opening can be covered by a polymeric member defining a slit. The polymeric member can be constructed so that the slit forms an opening when the polymeric member is compressed in a direction generally parallel to the slit.

In yet another embodiment, each opening may include a first side and a second side. The first side may be surrounded by a slot, while the second side may be surrounded by an edge. The slot and the edge can form an interlock setting. In this embodiment, the closure member may be present in order to facilitate mechanical interlocking between the slot and the edge. In particular, the closure member can function as a ziper or closure in which the zipper can slide along the slot and the edge forcing the two structures together. Alternatively, the slot and the edge can be closed by sliding a finger along the opening.

In yet another embodiment, the first and second openings may be located on the first and second compartments so as to overlap when the container is folded. The package can include a sealing member that seals the first opening to the second opening when the package is folded. For example, the sealing member may comprise a female part positioned on one side of the first opening and a male part which is placed on one side of the second opening. The female part can form an interlocking notch with the male part when the package is bent. For example, the female part may comprise a groove, while the male part comprises an edge that fits within the groove.

In another embodiment, at least one of the openings may comprise an open end of the compartment for removing the products therethrough. For example, the open end may be accessed from the interior surface of the compartment and may face the seam. The compartments within an open end are particularly well suited to contain, for example, dry wiping cloths, such as facial tissues and the like.

In yet another embodiment, one of the openings in the compartments may initially be closed by a frangible seal. The frangible seal can be configured to be opened by a user to expose the product inside. Examples of the frangible seals that may be used in the present description are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,616,337, and 6,705,541 and in the publication of the Patent Cooperation Treaty No. WO02 / 42176 , all of which are incorporated here by reference. A frangible seal usually refers to a seal that once opened by a user can not be resealed. The compartments having a frangible seal are particularly well suited to contain wetted products, liquid products and semi-solid products.

It should be understood that the different types of openings described above can be used in conjunction with others as desired. For example, in a incorporation, the first compartment may have an opening while the second compartment may have a re-sealable opening or a closed opening by a frangible seal.

In yet another embodiment, the package may include a third compartment. The third compartment, for example, can be imposed on the interior surface of the first compartment or the second compartment. The third compartment may be configured to contain a third product and may have any suitable opening as described above. For example, in one embodiment, the third compartment may have an open end.

The package can generally be made of any suitable material. In one embodiment, for example, the package can be made of a polymer film material. The polymer film material may comprise a multilayer polymer film. For example, the polymer film may include a sealing layer that faces the cleaning cloths within the compartments and an opposing outer layer. Optionally, a core layer may also be present which is placed between the sealable layer and the outer layer. The core layer may be stiffer than the sealable layer and the outer layer to provide support for the product.

The sealing layer can be made of any suitable thermoplastic polymer that is capable of fusing when subjected to, for example, heat or ultrasonic energy. The sealable layer, for example, can be made of a polyolefin polymer, a polyolefin copolymer, or an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer. The outer layer, on the other hand, may comprise a polyolefin polymer or a copolymer thereof. The outer layer may be printed with graphics and may also be engraved.

The present disclosure is also directed to a process for producing a package for products that can be consumed. The process may include the steps of placing a first product, such as a stack of wipers on a first part of a stretch and placing a second product, such as a second stack of wipers on a second part of the stretch. The section may include a first end, a second end, and a middle part. The middle part can be located between the first part and the second part. The section may comprise a polymer film material.

The first end of the section can be folded over the first stack of wiping cloths and the free edges of the first end can be fastened to the section. For example, once folded over the stack of wipers, the free edges of the first end can be thermally or ultrasonically bonded to the stretch. In a similar way, the second extreme of the section can be folded over the second pile of cleaning cloths and fastened to the section.

A first opening can be formed at the first end of the section to remove the first stack of wipers from the first compartment and a second opening can be formed at the second end of the section for removal of the second stack of wipers from the second compartment.

If desired, a second line can be formed along the middle part of the section as to facilitate folding of the first compartment over the second compartment. In addition, the middle part can also be perforated to separate the first compartment of the second compartment if a consumer wishes to do this.

Other features and aspects of the present disclosure are discussed in more detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A complete and enabling description of the present invention, including the best mode thereof for an expert in the art, is more particularly set forth in the remainder of the description, including reference to the accompanying figures, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a package for carrying wiping cloths according to the present disclosure.

Figure 2 is another perspective view of the package illustrated in Figure 1.

Figures 3A to 3C are perspective views illustrating an embodiment of the process for forming the package illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.

Figure 4A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 4B is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 4C is a perspective view of another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 4D is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 4E is a perspective view of another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 4F is a cross-sectional view of the package illustrated in Figure 4E.

Figure 4G is a perspective view of another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 4H is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 6 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 7 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; Y Figure 9 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure.

The repeated use of the reference characters in the present description and in the drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION It should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present discussion is a description of the example embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the present invention.

In general, the present disclosure is directed to a package for carrying products that can be consumed, such as cleaning cloths. The package may contain, for example, two compartments that each carry a different product, such as a stack of separate cleaning cloths. The Cleaning cloths contained in the package can be, for example, the facial tissues, napkins, paper towels and moistened cleaning cloths including the previously moistened bathroom tissue.

In addition to cleaning cloths, the container of the present description may also contain various other products that may be consumed. For example, the package may also contain liquid products and / or semi-solid products. Examples of such products include skin care compositions, cleaning agents including disinfectants, insect repellents, cosmetic products and the like. Other possible products that may be contained within the package include fragrance products, medicated pads, various non-woven pads, rubber gloves, finger gloves, condoms and the like.

In one embodiment, the compartment can be fastened to the second compartment along a seam that can be folded. Therefore, when folded, the container has a portfolio type style and shape.

Of particular advantage, the package is not only configured to contain two different products, but also to carry the products in a relatively discreet manner. For example, the container can be made to be relatively compact and can be provided with different textures and graphics that if desired can have a general view that is very different from conventional facial tissue containers, packaging for baby wipes and the like.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, for example, an embodiment of a package 10 made in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated. As shown, the package 10 includes a first compartment 12 attached to a second compartment 14 along a seam 16. The seam 16 is configured to be folded. In this aspect, the seam 16 can be made of a flexible material and / or can include a marked line to facilitate folding of the package. In one embodiment, the seam 16 can define a perforation line that not only facilitates bending but allows the user to separate the first compartment 12 from the second compartment 14.

As shown in Figure 1, the first compartment 12 includes an exterior surface 18, while the second compartment 14 includes an exterior surface 20. When the container 10 is opened as shown in Figure 2, the first compartment 12 defines a inner surface 22 facing an inner surface 24 of the second compartment 14. The inner surface 22 of the first compartment 12 defines a first opening 26, while the inner surface 24 of the second compartment 14 defines a second opening 28. The first and second openings 26 and 28 are for supplying cleaning wipes from the container 10.

As shown in Figure 2, the openings 26 and 28 are generally in the form of slits. It should be understood, however, that the openings can have any configuration depending on the particular application. For example, in other embodiments, the openings may have an oval shape, a round shape, a rectangular shape, or the like.

When dry cleaning cloths are supplied, the package 10 may not require additional structures in addition to the openings 26 and 28. In some applications, especially when at least one of the compartments contains pre-moistened cleaning cloths, however, the openings 26 and 28 may be sealed again. For example, as shown in Figure 2, in one embodiment, an adhesive label 30 is placed over each of the openings 26 and 28 that can be peeled and resealed. In the particular embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the adhesive label 30 includes a peelable member 32 surrounded by a frame portion 34. At least the frame portion 34 is securely fastened to the interior surface of the container. In addition, the material that can be peeled 32 can also include an adhesive that can be peeled outward and resuscitated to the interior surface.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, in order to access one of the openings 26 and 28, an appendage portion 36 on one of the peelable members 32 can be grasped by a user in order to bend the member that It can be peeled back and expose the underlying opening. Once a cleaning cloth is removed from the opening, the peelable member 32 can then be folded back into a closed position to reseal the container.

The adhesive label 30 as shown in Figure 2 can be made of any suitable material. For example, the adhesive label 30 may be made of a plastic film, a multilayer film, a coated paper or cardboard, and the like. In one embodiment, the adhesive label 30 is made of a relatively rigid plastic film. The film, for example, can be made of a polymer having a density of at least 1.2 g / cc, such as more than about 1.3 g / cc. The polymer used to form the adhesive layer can be, for example, a polyolefin, a polyester or any other suitable material.

In one embodiment, the adhesive label 30 may be transparent or translucent. If desired, several graphics can be printed on the label. For example, the label can be printed with instructions or with aesthetic designs. In a particular embodiment, for example, the Label 30 can be printed with designs that can match the outer surface of the container.

Examples of labels that can be used with the package of the present disclosure are included, for example, in US Pat. Nos. 6,428,867 and 6,589,622, which are both incorporated herein by reference. Such labels, for example, can be obtained commercially from Prime Label and Screen, Inc., of Pewaukee, Wisconsin.

Referring to Figures 3A to 3C, an embodiment of a process for producing the package 10 is shown as indicated in Figures 1 and 2. For example, as shown in Figure 3A, the package 10 can be made from a stretch of a single piece 40. In one embodiment, for example, the length of a piece 40 can be made of a polymer film. The polymer film can be rolled from a parent roll and cut to a desired length. In addition, the openings 26 and 28 can be formed in the section.

As shown in Figure 3A, a first stack of wiping cloths 62 and a second stack of wiping cloths 64 are placed on the wipe 40. Wiping cloths 42 and 44 can comprise any suitable cleaning product, such as facial tissues, napkins, tissue for bathroom, baby wipes, cloths disinfectant cleaners, industrial cleaning cloths and the like. As described above, in one embodiment, the first stack of wiping cloths 42 and the second stack of wiping cloths 44 comprise wipers previously wetted. In addition, it should be understood that the first stack of wipers 42 and the second stack of wipers 44 can be the same product or they can be different products. For example, in one embodiment, the first row of wiping cloths 42 may comprise the pre-wetted bathroom tissue, while the second stack of wiping cloths 44 may comprise pre-wetted antimicrobial cleaning wipes. In another embodiment, the first stack of cleaning wipes may comprise prewet cleaning wipes while the second stack of wiping wipes may comprise an essentially dry product such as facial tissues or bath tissues.

Each stack of wiping cloths may comprise separate sheets or may comprise a continuous length of material in which each sheet is separated by perforations.

When stacked as separate sheets, the individual sheets can be folded separately and stacked one on top of the other. Alternatively, the sheets may be interfolded.

The number of sheets contained in the first stack 42 and / or in the second stack 44 can vary dramatically depending on the particular application. For the purposes of example only, each battery may contain only a single cleaning cloth or may contain more than 30 cleaning cloths. In one embodiment, for example, each row may contain from about 4 cleaning wipes to about 25 wiping cloths, such as from about 8 wiping cloths to about 20 wiping cloths. In a particular application, for example, each stack can contain from about 10 cleaning wipes to about 15 cleaning wipes, such as about 12 cleaning wipes.

The number of cleaning cloths in each pile may vary depending on the particular application of the product. For example, when a lower amount of cleaning cloths is contained, the package can become relatively compact. In this embodiment, the dimensions of the package can be relatively small and can be used as a package for the bag, a pocket package and the like for convenience in use. When forming in a portfolio type size, for example, the length and width of the container, for example, can range from about 2 inches to about 6 inches.

In other embodiments, however, the container can be configured to contain relatively large amounts. large of cleaning cloths. In this embodiment, the package may be for carrying relatively large amount of baby wipes or larger accounts for other types of similar wiping products.

As shown in Figure 3A, each stack of wipers 42 and 44 are placed on the section 40 towards the middle part of the section. The section 40 includes a first end wall 46 and a second end part 48. As shown in Figure 3B, after the stacks of wipers are placed on the section each end part is then folded over the top of the stacks of cleaning cloths. In this manner, the opening 26 is placed on top of the stack 44, while the opening 28 is placed on the top of the stack 42.

After the end portions 46 and 48 are bent over the stacks of wipers 42 and 44, the free edges of the end portions are then fastened to the section to create the two separate compartments. In the manner in which the edges of the end portions are attached to the section may vary depending on the types of material used to form the section. For example, in an embodiment, an adhesive can be used to secure the edges to the section. Alternatively, the free edges of the end portions may be thermally or umosonically joined to the section. Even more particularly, as shown in Figure 3C, the edges 50, 52A, and 54A of the first end portion 46 are sealed to the section to form a sealed compartment. Similarly, the edges 50B, 52B and 54B of the second end portion 48 are also sealed to the section to form another sealed compartment.

Of a particular advantage, by bending the end portion 46 on the section, a folded edge 56 is formed. Similarly, the second end portion 48 forms a second folded edge 58. The folded edges 56 and 58 are relatively soft to the touch and increase not only the comfort but the aesthetics of the resulting container.

As shown in Figure 3C, a seam 16 is formed between the first compartment and the second compartment. In an incorporation, the first and second end portions can be bent so that no end part overlaps the seam 16. In this way, the seam is made only of one layer of material and can therefore be easily folded. If desired, the seam 16 may include a marking line to facilitate bending and / or may also include a perforation line. By adding a perforation line, the first compartment can be detached from the second compartment if desired by a user.

As shown in Figure 3C, once the sealed compartments in the package are formed, a resealable device can be placed over each of the openings 26 and 28. For example, in the example shown in the figure 3C, an adhesive label 30 is placed over each opening.

In the embodiments shown in Figures 3A to 3C, the package 10 is made of a single section 40. It should be understood, however, that in other embodiments the container can be made of two different sections. For example, the two separate sections can be used to form two separate compartments. The two compartments can be joined together to form a seam.

The one or more stretches used for the container 10 can be made of any suitable material. For example, the section may be made of a single layer of material or multiple material layers. The materials that can be used to form the stretch include woven materials, woven materials, non-woven materials such as meltblown fabrics or spunbond fabrics, plastic films, laminates thereof and the like.

In one embodiment, for example, the section 40 can be made of a multi-layer polymer film. The film may include, for example, a layer that can be sealed which is placed in contact with the stack of cleaning cloths and is particularly suitable for thermally or ultrasonically bonding itself. In addition, the multi-layer plastic film may also include an outer layer that may have particular characteristics that improve the aesthetics of the package. Optionally, the multilayer film may also include a core layer that is positioned between the sealable layer and the outer layer.

The layer that can be sealed, for example, can be made of a polyolefin, such as a polyethylene or a low density polypropylene. The layer that can be sealed can also be made of an ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer or any other suitable thermoplastic polymer.

The core layer when present, on the other hand, can comprise any material capable of providing some rigidity to the product. The core layer, for example, may comprise a paper layer, a sheet, or a layer of polymer, such as polyester polypropylene. When a sheet layer such as a core layer is used, the sheet can have a thickness of from about 25 in thickness to about 48 in thickness.

The outer layer, on the other hand, can comprise any suitable polymer film, such as polyethylene or a polypropylene. The outer layer may contain several softening additives and anti-slip agents, such as a diene that softens the polymer to give it a patina-like feel. In one embodiment, the outer layer can be made of a polymer film that is capable of accepting an ink. Alternatively, the outer layer can be covered with an adherent ink coating. In this way, several aesthetically pleasing graphics can be applied to the package as desired.

In another embodiment, the outer layer can be engraved in order to further soften the layer and to provide the package with some texture.

As described above, the stack of wipers 42 and 44 that may be contained within the package may vary depending on the particular application. For example, the package may be configured to contain facial tissues, napkins, paper towels and the like. The package is also particularly suitable for containing moistened cleaning cloths. Pre-moistened wiping cloths may comprise, for example, pre-moistened wipes which can be discharged with water discharge, baby wipes, disinfecting wipes and the like.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the openings 27 and 28 are made to reseal by the Place a resealable device over the openings. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, for example, an adhesive label is placed on each opening that includes a frame part and a member that can be peeled. It should be understood, however, that several other devices that can be sealed can be incorporated into the package.

For example, referring to Figures 4A to 4H, various other embodiments of the sealable devices that can be used in accordance with the present disclosure are illustrated. The similar reference numbers. they have been used to indicate the same or similar elements.

Referring to Figure 4A, for example, the package 10 includes the adhesive labels 30 similar to the adhesive labels illustrated in Figure 2. For example, as shown in Figure 4 ?, the adhesive labels 30 include a frame part 34 surrounding a member that can be peeled 32. In this embodiment, however, the members that can be peeled include the appendage portions 36 that extend beyond a perimeter of the frame part 34. In this manner, the parts of appendix 36 can be easy to grasp to open the device that can be sealed again.

Referring to Figure 4B, there is shown yet another embodiment of a device that can be sealed and that can be placed over the openings contained in the container. In this embodiment, the device that can be re-sealed includes a polymeric member 60 that defines a slit 62. The polymeric member 60 may be composed of a somewhat rigid polymer. For example, in one embodiment, the polymeric member 60 can be formed through injection molding. When the polymeric member is compressed in a direction generally parallel to the slit 62, the slit forms an opening as shown on the second compartment 14 to supply the cleaning cloths therethrough. Once the compressive force is released, the opening returns to the shape of a slit and reseals itself.

If desired, a reinforcement rib can be formed in the polymeric member 60 along its perimeter. The rib can further facilitate the opening of the slit when a compressive force is applied to the polymeric member.

In one embodiment, the polymer member 60 can be formed from a rubber type sheet. The rubber type sheet can have material properties that can be described in terms of hardness, stiffness, thickness, elasticity, specific gravity, settled compression and any combinations thereof.

More specifically, the Shore A hardness (as measured by ASTM D2240) of the flexible rubber type material or sheet may be around 100 or less, more specifically from about 20 to about 90, and even more specifically from around 40 to around 80, and even more specifically from around 60 to around 70.

A Gurley stiffness of flexible rubber type material or sheet (as measured by ASTM D6125-97 Standard Test Method for Paper and Cardboard Bending Strength) may be around 10,000 milligrams of force (mgf) or less, more specifically from about 100 to about 8,000 milligrams of force, more specifically from about 200 to about 6,500 milligrams of force, and even more specifically from about 300 to about 1,500 milligrams of force.

The thickness of the flexible rubber type sheet can be about 10 mils or more, more specifically from about 10 mils to about 110 mils and even more specifically from about 35 mils. inch to about 60 thousandths of an inch.

The elasticity of the flexible rubber or sheet type material, as characterized by tensile strength at 100% elongation and was measured in accordance with ASTM D 12"Standard Test Methods for Vulcanized Rubber and Thermoplastic Elastomers", can be be about 10 megapascals (Mpa) or less, more specifically from about 0.1 to about 7 megapascals and more specifically from about 0.5 to about 2.5 megapascals.

The flexible rubber type sheet can have a specific gravity (per ASTM D792) of around 0.80 to 1.21, more specifically from 0.88 to about 1.10, and more specifically from about 0.90 to about 1.0. The flexible rubber type sheet can have a seated compression (by ASTM 395B) of around (at room temperature / at 70 ° C) from 8/30 to 40/120 more specifically from 15/45 to around 28/100 An example of such flexible sheet type materials include thermoplastic elastomeric materials (TPE) that can be used to provide the acceptable assortment. Materials which may be employed include (but are not limited to): any of the family of styrenically based thermoplastic elastomeric materials (e.g. styrenic block copolymer compounds); thermoplastic elastomeric materials containing rubber modifiers such as Kratonmarca, Santoprenemarca, or other rubber modifiers; the specialty copolymers Kratonmarca, Santoprenemarca, such as the ethylene-methyl acrylate copolymers (for example EMAC brand of the Eastman Chemical Company); thermosetted rubbers; polyurethane; alloys; amides; thermoplastic engineering elastomeric materials; olefinic base, olefinic vulcanizates; based on polyester; based on polyurethane; One such flexible rubber sheet material can be manufactured by GLS-Corporation of McHenry, Illinois, United States of America and is known as resin # G2701. The material G2701 is one of the resins in the product family of thermoplastic elastomeric materials. G2701 is a styrenic base material and is in the family of styrenic block copolymer compounds. Some particular properties of G2701 can be: specific gravity of 0.090 g / cc (ASTM D792); Shore A durometer hardness of 68 (ASTM D2240); and seated 24% compression at room temperature, 96% at 70 ° C (by ASTM 395B). Another similar material is known as G2755 and is also sold by GLS Corporation. In addition, a lubricant (eg wax) can be added to lower the coefficient of friction of the continuous slit which can benefit injection molding, the assortment of wet wiping cloths and the physical handling of the flexible orifice. The resin of thermoplastic elastomeric material G2701 with 1/4% wax additive sold by GLS Corporation and known as # LC217-189 can be used.

Referring to Figure 4C, yet another embodiment of a sealing device that can be used in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated. In this embodiment, the resealing device comprises adhesive labels that can be peeled and resealed. The adhesive labels can be formed from any suitable polymeric material or can be formed from a coated paper. As shown in this embodiment, the openings 26 and 28 have a generally rectangular shape located below each of the adhesive labels.

Referring to Figure 4D, yet another embodiment of a sealing member that may be incorporated in the package of the present disclosure is illustrated. As shown, in this embodiment, the openings 26 and 28 are surrounded by a structure of a slot and a spine of interlock. In particular, the sealing member includes a spine 66 positioned on one side of the opening and a slot 68 positioned on the opposite side of the opening. When pressed together the slot fits within the spine to form a recess connection that can be waterproof. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 4D, a zipper element 70 can be included to facilitate closing the opening.

Referring to Figures 4E and 4F, another embodiment of a sealing device that can be used with the package of the present disclosure is illustrated. In this embodiment, the first and second openings 26 and 28 generally align with each other when the package 10 is folded. The sealing member, in this embodiment, seals the first opening to the second opening when the package is bent.

For example, the sealing member may include a female part 80 surrounding the opening 26. The sealing member may further include a male part 82 surrounding the opening 28. As shown in Figure 4F, when the package 10 is folded , the female part 80 forms an interlocking fit with the male part 82.

In general, any suitable mechanical interlocking seal can be used to close the two openings. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4E and 4F, for example, the female part comprises a groove, while the male part comprises a spine or edge. The spine of the male part fits into the groove of the female part to close the openings.

In addition to the mechanical seal as shown in the figures, in other embodiments, other sealing type arrangements may be used. For example, in a Upon incorporation, each of the openings may be surrounded by a pressure sensitive adhesive that seals the openings together when the package is bent.

It should also be understood that the shape of the openings may vary and is generally not critical. For example, in the figures, the openings 26 and 28 may have an oval shape. In other embodiments, however, the openings may be rectangular, square, circular, or in any other suitable form as may be desired.

Referring to Figure 4G, there is illustrated yet another embodiment of a pointing device that can be used with the package of the present disclosure. As shown, the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4G is similar in construction to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 4E and 4F. Similar to the embodiments shown in Figures 4E and 4F, for example, the sealing member seals the first opening to the second opening when the container is bent. In this embodiment, however, each opening is surrounded by both a male part and a female part. For example, as shown, the opening 26 is surrounded by a first male part 90 and a first one. female part 92. The opening 28, on the other hand is surrounded by a second male part 94 and the second female part 96.

When the package illustrated in Figure 4G is bent together, the first male part 90 is received within the second female part 96, while the second male part 94 is received within the first female part 92. In this manner, the first opening 26 is sealed to the second opening 28 when the product is bent.

The embodiment illustrated in Figure 4G can provide various benefits and advantages during manufacture. For example, by having each opening surrounded by a male part and a female part, each structure surrounding the opening is identical. In other words, you only need to manufacture a single sealing structure. When the product is assembled, a first sealing structure surrounds the first opening 26, while an identical sealing structure is placed around the opening 28, only the second structure is rotated 180 degrees in relation to the first sealing structure.

Referring to Figure 4H, still another embodiment of a package made according to the present disclosure is illustrated. Again, the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4H is very similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 4E and 4F. In particular, the package shown in Figure 4H contains a sealing member that includes a female part 80 that surrounds the opening 26 and a male part 82 that surrounds the opening 28. When the package 10 is bent, the female part 80 In this embodiment, however, the package 10 further includes a strap 98 connecting the female part 80 with the male part 82. The strap 98 is provided in order to keep the part female and the male part in alignment when the package is folded. The belt 98 can also be used to hold the female part and the male part in alignment when the package is manufactured. In general, the belt 98 can be made of any suitable material. For example, in one embodiment, the belt 98 can be made of a plastic film that is at least semi-rigid but can be bent with the seam.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 4H, only a single belt 98 is shown. It should be understood, however, that in other embodiments the package may include more than one belt. For example, in an alternate embodiment to a first strap, the upper part of the female part can be connected to the upper part of the male part and a second strap can connect the bottom of the male part to the bottom of the female part.

Referring to Figure 5, another embodiment of a package 10 made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. As illustrated, the package 10 includes a first compartment 12 and a second compartment 14 separated by a seam 16. In this embodiment, the first compartment 12 has an open free end defining a first opening 26. Similarly, the second compartment 14 includes an open free end defining a second opening 28. As shown, the openings 26 and 28 are formed by heat sealing together the top and bottom of the interior surfaces and of the exterior surfaces. Both openings 26 and 28 face the seam 16.

The first compartment 12 of the container 10 contains a first product, such as a first stack of wipers 42, while the second compartment 14 contains a second stack of wipers 44. The products 42 and 44 can be the same or different. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, compartments 12 and 14 are particularly well suited for storing and conveniently dispensing dry products, such as facial tissues, napkins and other wipes.

Referring to Figure 6, there is shown yet another embodiment of a package 10 made in accordance with the present disclosure. The package illustrated in Figure 6 is a combination of the package illustrated in Figure 5 and the package illustrated in Figure 4D. In particular, the first compartment 12 is similar to the first compartment shown in Figure 5. The first compartment 12 includes an open free end 26 for dispensing a first product 42, such as a stack of wiping cloths.

The second compartment 14 in Figure 6, on the other hand, includes a resealable opening 28. As shown, the second compartment 14 includes a ridge or spine 66 that can be inserted and sealed within the slot 68. Slot and interlock spine structure can be opened by a user and subsequently closed when desired.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 6, the first compartment 12 is particularly suitable for containing dry products, such as dry cleaning cloths. The second compartment 14, however, can be sealed again and therefore contain a pre-moistened product, such as pre-moistened wipes. For example, the first compartment 12 may contain the napkins, facial tissue, or bath tissue, while the second compartment 14 may contain a pre-moistened bath tissue, pre-moistened wiping cloths, pre-moistened antimicrobial cleaning wipes or wiping cloths. which can be saturated with a lotion or other solvent. In addition to the cleaning cloths, the second compartment 14 can contain any suitable consumable product that contains liquids and must be stored in a sealed environment.

In one embodiment, compartments 12 and 14 may contain products that are to be used together. By For example, the second compartment 14 may contain a pre-moistened cleaning cloth which applies a cleaning agent, while the first compartment 12 may contain a dry cleaning cloth for drying a surface after it has been treated with the previously moistened cleaning cloths. Alternatively, the second compartment 14 may contain antiseptic wipes while the first compartment 12 may contain gauze pads, bandages or other medical aids.

Referring to Figure 7, still another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. Figure 7 represents a combination of the package illustrated in Figure 5 and the package illustrated in Figure 2. In particular, the first compartment 12 of the package 10 includes an open free end 26 for the containment of a first product 42, such as a pile of cleaning cloths.

The second compartment 14 of the container 10, on the other hand, includes a re-sealable opening 28. In particular, the opening 28 is covered by an adhesive label 30. The adhesive label 30 includes a peelable member 32 having a part of appendix 36. In order to supply a second product of second compartment 14, a user can pull on appendix part 36 to open the adhesive label 30 and dispensing a product through the opening 28.

Similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 6, the package 10 shown in Figure 7 is well suited to contain a dry product 42 in the first compartment 12 in conjunction with a pre-moistened product contained within the second compartment 14.

The compartments 12 and 14, however, may contain several other products in addition to the cleaning cloths. Other products that may be contained in the compartments include, for example, medicated pads, cosmetics, applicators for cosmetics, aroma products and / or fragrances, rubber gloves, finger gloves, polishing pads, condoms and the like.

Referring to Figure 8, there is shown yet another embodiment of a package 10 made in accordance with the present disclosure. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8 is similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figure 6, as shown, the package 10 includes a first compartment 12 separated from a second compartment 14 by a seam. The first compartment 10 includes an open free end 26 that faces the seam. The second compartment 14, on the other hand, includes a re-sealable opening 28.

In particular, the opening 28 is surrounded by a groove and interlock spine that can be opened and closed by a user.

In Figure 8, the package 10 further includes a third compartment 100. The third compartment 100 is super imposed on the inner surface 24 of the second compartment 14. The third compartment 100 includes an open free end 102 that faces the seam 16 The third compartment 100 is configured to contain a third product. The third product contained in the third compartment 100 may be related to the products contained in the other compartments or may be unrelated. The third product contained within the third compartment 100 can be, for example, any of the products that can be consumed described above. Alternatively, the third product may comprise a business card or the like.

In some embodiment illustrated in Figure 8, the third compartment 100 includes the open free end 102. It should be understood, however, that the third compartment 100 may include a resealable opening or any other suitable opening means as shown in FIG. describe here Referring to Figure 9, another embodiment of a package 10 made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. As shown, the package 10 includes a first compartment 12 and a second compartment 14. The first compartment 12 is essentially similar to the first compartment illustrated in Figure 5. As shown the first compartment 12 includes an open free end 26 for containing and stock a product 42.

The second compartment 14, on the other hand, in this embodiment comprises a sealing compartment. In particular, the second compartment 14 defines an opening 28 that remains closed until use by a frangible seal 110. Therefore, the second compartment 14 is well adapted for a single use means of assortment of a product.

In general, any suitable frangible seal 110 can be used for the compartment 14. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 9, for example, the frangible seal 110 includes an appendix that a user pulls to open the compartment. In other embodiments, however, any suitable frangible seal may be included with the package. For example, in an alternate embodiment, the container can be configured to be peeled or torn and opened to remove the contents. For example, a notch can be formed in the compartment where the container will be torn and opened.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 9 the compartment 14 is particularly well suited to contain a liquid product or a semi-solid product. For example, the product contained within the compartment 14 can be a skin care composition such as a lotion, an aromatic product, a cleaning agent, such as a disinfectant, an insect repellent or any other similar product. In one embodiment, the first compartment 12 can be configured to contain a cleaning cloth 42 that can be used to apply the product contained in the second compartment 14. In addition to the cleaning cloths, however, any suitable applicator can be contained in the first compartment. For example, in other embodiments, a cotton swab or any other suitable applicator may be contained in the first compartment 12.

These and other modifications and variations of the present invention may be practiced by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, which is more particularly set forth in the appended claims. In addition, it should be understood that the aspects of the various incorporations can be exchanged in whole or in part. In addition, those with ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the above description is by way of example only and is not intended to limit the invention thus described in such appended claims.

Claims (20)

R E I V I N D I C A C I O N S

1. A container for carrying products that can be consumed, comprising: a first compartment containing a first product, the first compartment having a length and a width and defining an interior surface and an exterior surface; a second compartment containing a second product, the second compartment having a length and a width that are essentially similar to the length and width of the first compartment, the second compartment also defines an interior surface and an exterior surface; wherein the first compartment is connected to the second compartment along a seam and can be folded over the second compartment around the seam, and where when in a bent configuration, the interior surface of the first compartment faces the surface inside of the second compartment; Y wherein at least one compartment includes an open end for removing products therethrough, the open end being accessed on the inner surface, the open end facing the seam.

2. A package as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that both compartments each include an open end for removing products therethrough, both open ends facing the seam.

3. A package as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the first compartment has an open end and the second compartment defines an opening located on the inner surface of the second compartment to withdraw the products therethrough, the opening being resealable.

4. A package as claimed in clauses 1 and 3, characterized in that the opening defined by the second compartment is covered by an adhesive label that is peeled and resealable.

5. A package as claimed in clauses 1 and 3, characterized in that the re-sealable opening on the second compartment includes a first side and a second side, the first side being bordered by a spine, while the second side side being bordered by a slot that interlocks with the spine.

6. A package as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the first compartment defines the open end and wherein the second compartment includes a frangible seal located on the inner surface of the second compartment, the frangible seal is configured to be opened by a user to remove the second product therethrough.

7. A package as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, characterized in that the first product contained in the first compartment is different from the second product contained in the second product contained in the second compartment.

8. A package as claimed in any of clauses 1-6, characterized in that the first product contained in the first compartment is the same as the second product contained in the second compartment.

9. A package as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, characterized in that the first product and the second product both comprise at least one cleaning cloth.

10. A package as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, characterized in that the cleaning cloth comprises a facial tissue, a bath tissue or a napkin.

11. A package as claimed in any of Clauses 1-7 and 9-10, characterized in that the first product contained in the first compartment comprises dry cleaning cloths while the second product contained in the second compartment comprises cleaning cloths moistened previously.

12. A package as claimed in clauses 1-7, characterized in that the second product contained within the second compartment comprises a liquid or a semi-solid.

13. A package as claimed in clauses 1-7 and 12, characterized in that the second product contained within the second compartment comprises a liquid or a semi-solid product and the first product contained within the first compartment comprises an applicator for the second product.

14. A package as claimed in clauses 1-7 and 12, characterized in that the first product contained within the first compartment comprises at least one cleaning cloth and wherein the second product contained within the second compartment comprises a composition for the care of the skin, a cleaning agent, an insect repellent, a fragrance product, a medicated pad, a cosmetic product, rubber gloves, a finger glove, a condom or mixtures thereof.

15. A container as claimed in any of Clauses 1-9, characterized in that the first compartment contains only one dry product.

16. A package as claimed in the preceding clauses 1-9, characterized in that the second compartment contains only one wet product.

17. A package as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, characterized in that the first and second openings differ from one another.

18. A package as claimed in any of clauses 1-16, characterized in that the first and second openings are the same.

19. A package as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, characterized in that the package further includes a third compartment superimposed on the inner surface of the first or second compartments.

20. A container as claimed in any one of the preceding clauses, characterized in that the container further includes a third compartment superimposed on the interior surface of both compartments first and second. R E S U E A container for carrying and supplying cleaning cloths is described. The package has a wallet-type configuration and includes a first compartment separated from a second compartment along a seam that can be folded. The package can be configured to carry any suitable wiping cloths including facial tissue, bathroom tissue, and any suitable pre-moistened wipes.