EP0701953A1 - Packaging pouch and method of its manufacture - Google Patents

Abstract

The sachet (1) comprises two facing supple plastics sheets (2,2'), each defining an internal and external face of the sachet. There is a sealing border (3 - 6) along the sheet edges, with a volume (11) delimiting the internal faces from the borders containing the product. A space emerging from the volume allows introduction of the product, this space being sealed after introduction of the product. The sachet (1) has an intermediate flap (18) and a fastening flap (28), fixed by a border (6) to first (17) and second (27) folding zones, connecting the flaps to the volume (11) from an edge (10,7,9) of the corresponding border. The fastening flap is immobilised relative to the rest of the sachet by adhesive (25) so as to fix each flap to the corresponding external face and seal the sachet opening.

Description

The invention relates to a packaging bag which can be closed for example after partial use of its contents, and to its manufacturing process.

It is common to package products, especially pasty, fluid or powdery, in sachets intended to be discarded after the use of their contents.

This is the case for free samples of cosmetic products and individual doses of food products, especially condiments.

• deux feuilles souples mais déformables plastiquement par pliage, et agencées sensiblement face-à-face ;
• une marge de scellement des bords des feuilles et pourvue de moyens de rigidification ;
• un volume délimité par les faces internes en regard et par la marge, ainsi qu'apte à contenir le produit ;
• un espace d'introduction débouchant à l'intérieur du volume et permettant d'y introduire le produit ; et
• un système d'obturation sensiblement hermétique de cet espace, et donc du volume.

Sachets for packaging a product have been proposed in a substantially hermetic manner, and comprising at least:

• two flexible sheets but plastically deformable by folding, and arranged substantially face-to-face;
• a sealing margin for the edges of the sheets and provided with stiffening means;
• a volume delimited by the internal facing faces and by the margin, as well as suitable for containing the product;
• an introduction space opening into the interior of the volume and allowing the product to be introduced therein; and
• a substantially hermetic sealing system for this space, and therefore for the volume.

Often, each sheet includes a border opposite that of the other sheet, and projecting from an expected filling level of the volume. So the system closing the introduction space may include a sealing margin of these edges between them.

In the past, many sachets were distributed as such to the end consumer, after filling and sealing.

It was therefore necessary to use a sharp object to form an opening in the volume allowing the product to be discharged.

These sachets are increasingly replaced by others, provided with irreversible means for releasing an opening in the volume, at a predetermined location.

Such a product discharge opening can be formed, just before use of the latter, by pulling a tab formed on a margin, in the direction of a tearing primer provided in the sheets.

Another possibility consists in providing that a preformed opening opens into the volume and is temporarily closed by an attached sealing member, for example a stamp glued to an external face of the bag and covering the opening in a leaktight manner. The opening is then released by detachment from this member.

However, known sachets have drawbacks.

When opening, the product tends to suddenly escape out of the volume. So the product can spread on the hands of the user of the bag, or reach a nearby object and stain it.

On a flat surface like a table, these bags are only in balance when they are pressed against one of their faces. It is therefore most often horizontally that they rest. In this position, if the product is able to flow, it can spread through the gaping opening and damage the surface where it is placed.

In addition, during or after a first use of the product, the latter may deteriorate or be contaminated by external agents, for example water, dust.

Therefore, any further use of the product is often prohibited, even if the sachet still contains a sufficient quantity of this product. Similarly, transporting the open bag is tricky, if not impossible.

However, several uses spaced over time are sometimes necessary to fully appreciate a product.

Furthermore, it is difficult to measure the quantity of product leaving through the opening.

In fact, the consumer does not appreciate the fair value of the product packed in these sachets, because of these drawbacks, which mainly in the case of a sample offered for advertising, is undesirable.

The aims of the invention are to overcome these drawbacks, inter alia, using a sachet - and its manufacturing process - economically advantageous, solid and "clean" compared to competing products of the past.

To this end, the invention proposes, on the one hand, a sachet for packaging in a substantially hermetic manner of a product in particular pulverulent, pasty or fluid, and comprising at least: two flexible sheets but plastically deformable by folding and arranged approximately opposite one from the other, each sheet defining an internal face and an external face of the sachet; a sealing margin for the edges of the sheets and provided with stiffening means; a volume which delimits the internal faces of the sheets with the margin, and capable of containing the product; a space opening into the volume and making it possible to introduce the product therein, this space being closable after introduction of the product, for example using a sealing margin; and a predetermined location for unloading the packaged product and irreversible opening of the volume following closure of the introduction space;
characterized in that the bag comprises at least: an intermediate flap and an attachment flap, respectively secured to a margin; a first and a second folding zone, respectively connecting the intermediate and attachment flaps to the volume, from at least one edge of the corresponding margin; and anchoring means cooperating at least with the attachment flap in order to immobilize it relative to the rest of the bag; the intermediate flap and the attachment flap can be folded respectively against one or the other of the external faces of the bag, by folding along the first and second zones, in line with the predetermined clearance location, while the anchoring means are capable of making each flap fixedly integral with the external face corresponding, so that the unloading location is enclosed in a substantially sealed manner, even after its opening.

Preferably, the sachet is provided with irreversible means for releasing an opening at the predetermined location, such as for example an insert member for closing a preformed opening or a tear initiation.

Advantageously, the folding zone of a flap, and preferably that of the hooking flap, extends to a location close to but offset towards the inside of the bag with respect to the predetermined unloading location, so as to form by folding the sheets a sealing reverse, when this flap is folded down.

Here, the intermediate flap and / or the fastening flap came integrally with the corresponding margin (s).

The intermediate and attachment flaps can be secured by the same margin.

Then, the attachment flap can be at least partially connected to the margin by the second folding zone, the flaps having to be folded successively in this case.

The first and second folding zones can be intersecting, and / or substantially perpendicular.

In projection on a plane parallel to the general plane of a sealing margin, the sachet of the invention in its initial state can be approximately polygonal in shape, and preferably rectangle.

The anchoring means comprise an adhesive interposed between an external face of the bag and a corresponding face of one and / or the other of the flaps, in the folded position.

The anchoring means may comprise means for stiffening one or more sealing margin (s), which allow, by plastic deformation of part of this margin, to oppose the unfolding of at least one flap, a connection by obstacle or stop formed by this part.

Preferably, the anchoring means comprise on the one hand an end part of a flap and on the other hand a housing opening out from at least one external face of the bag and extending relative to the predetermined location unloading in an initial state of the bag, opposite the corresponding folding zone of this flap, the end part of the flap can be immobilized by insertion into the housing from the external face where the latter opens.

According to one embodiment, the housing has a slot passing right through the bag, perpendicular to its general plane.

Advantageously, the anchoring means are at least partially arranged on a margin, near the opening location.

According to one embodiment, at least one of the sheets comprises a synthetic material, and preferably a film with multiple layers or "complex".

Advantageously, at least one of the sheets comprises a layer of ductile material, such as soft metal, and for example aluminum.

At least one sealing margin includes an edge for bonding, heat-sealing or the like of the sheets.

The tearing initiation and / or at least one of the folding zones comprise an alternating line of cuts and frangible sections of the sheets.

Between its ends, the tearing primer has at least one bend.

The volume comprises a spout projecting into at least one margin adjacent to the unloading location and towards an external edge of the bag.

A grip tab on the one hand of the primer and a volume limit on the other hand, have parts that are substantially rectilinear and parallel to a connected part of an edge of the bag where an end bend of the primer opens .

A margin provided with the predetermined location and at least one margin comprising the flap (s), are connected to each other, and are preferably connected.

A tangent to the end of the leader, opposite the edge where it opens, intersects at least one folding zone, and is advantageously perpendicular to the latter at their intersection.

At at least one of its ends, at least one folding zone extends towards an opposite edge of the bag in a direction forming an angle different from 90 ° relative to this edge.

At least one folding zone of a flap comprises an elbow between its two ends, a section of this zone which extends between the elbow and the edge of the bag closest to the folding zone of the other flap, is precut and / or frangible.

At least one of the flaps comprises a product receiving member, capable of coming to the right of the location of the opening, after this flap has been folded down according to a folding zone.

An accessory such as a brush and / or application pad can be immobilized on the sachet preferably at the level of a flap, by means of detachable fixing means.

These means include an adhesive and / or an elastic clip called a "clip".

• agencer approximativement en regard l'une de l'autre deux feuilles souples mais déformables plastiquement par pliage, chaque feuille définissant une face interne et une face externe du sachet ;
• sceller les bords des feuilles par une marge, et prévoir des moyens de rigidification coopérant avec la marge ;
• délimiter avec la marge et entre les faces internes des feuilles, un volume apte à contenir le produit ;
• ménager un espace débouchant dans le volume et permettant d'y introduire le produit, cet espace étant obturable après introduction du produit, par exemple à l'aide d'une marge de scellement ; et
• prévoir un emplacement prédéterminé de déchargement du produit emballé et d'ouverture irréversible du volume suite à l'obturation de l'espace d'introduction ;
• caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte en outre les étapes suivantes consistant à :
• rendre un volet intermédiaire et un volet d'accrochage respectivement solidaires d'une marge ;
• ménager une première et une seconde zone de pliage reliant respectivement les volets intermédiaires et d'accrochage au volume, depuis au moins un bord de la marge corespondante ; et
• prévoir des moyens d'ancrage coopérant au moins avec le volet d'accrochage afin de l'immobiliser par rapport au reste du sachet ;
• le volet intermédiaire et le volet d'accrochage pouvant être rabattus respectivement contre l'une ou l'autre des faces externes du sachet par pliage suivant la première et la seconde zones, au droit de l'emplacement prédéterminé de déchargement, tandis que les moyens d'ancrage sont à-même de rendre chaque volet fixement solidaire de la face externe correspondante, de sorte que l'emplacement de déchargement se trouve enfermé de façon sensiblement étanche, même suite à son ouverture.

On the other hand, the invention provides a method of manufacturing a substantially hermetic packaging bag for a product in particular pulverulent, pasty or fluid, and comprising the steps consisting in:

• arranging approximately opposite one another two flexible sheets but plastically deformable by folding, each sheet defining an internal face and an external face of the sachet;
• seal the edges of the sheets with a margin, and provide stiffening means cooperating with the margin;
• delimit with the margin and between the internal faces of the leaves, a volume capable of containing the product;
• provide a space opening into the volume and allowing the product to be introduced therein, this space being closable after introduction of the product, for example using a sealing margin; and
• provide a predetermined location for unloading the packaged product and irreversible opening of the volume after the obturation of the introduction space;
• characterized in that it further comprises the following steps consisting in:
• making an intermediate flap and an attachment flap respectively secured to a margin;
• providing a first and a second folding zone respectively connecting the intermediate flaps and hooking to the volume, from at least one edge of the corresponding margin; and
• provide anchoring means cooperating at least with the attachment flap in order to immobilize it relative to the rest of the bag;
• the intermediate flap and the attachment flap which can be folded respectively against one or the other of the external faces of the bag by folding along the first and second zones, in line with the predetermined unloading location, while the means anchors are able to fix each flap integral with the corresponding external face, so that the unloading location is enclosed in a substantially sealed manner, even after it has been opened.

This process makes it possible to obtain a sachet as mentioned above.

• la figure 1 est une vue en plan d'un sachet pouvant être refermé, conforme à l'invention et dans son état initial ;
• la figure 2 est une vue partielle en plan du sachet de la figure 1, dans son état ouvert ;
• la figure 3 est une vue similaire à la figure 2, montrant l'état de pliage intermédiaire du sachet ; et
• la figure 4 est une vue similaire à la figure 2 ou 3 montrant l'état refermé du sachet.

The invention will be clearly understood on reading the detailed description which follows and refers to the appended drawings, in which:

• Figure 1 is a plan view of a sachet which can be closed, according to the invention and in its initial state;
• Figure 2 is a partial plan view of the bag of Figure 1, in its open state;
• Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 2 showing the intermediate folding state of the bag; and
• Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 2 or 3 showing the closed state of the bag.

In order to simplify the description, the illustrated bags are considered to extend along the plane of the sheet exclusively. This plan is confused with their general median plan.

Similarly, it is considered that the part of a bag illustrated closest to the top of the corresponding figure constitutes the top, while its part closest to the bottom of this figure forms the base. Thus, the direction connecting the top and bottom of a figure is considered to define a longitudinal direction of each bag shown. Any direction intersecting this longitudinal direction is said to be transverse.

In the plane to which each of the illustrated sachets is assimilated, the interior corresponds to the surface delimited by the edges of this sachet, while the exterior corresponds to what surrounds these edges. The term "external" applies to a part or element of the bag accessible or visible from the outside thereof, and the term "internal" applies to what is not accessible or visible from the outside.

These purely didactic simplifications do not exclude that the bags of the invention can be arranged in any way in space, or that they have a dimension or thickness along a perpendicular to the plane of the sheet. Conversely, the product to be packaged is introduced and enclosed in a systematically three-dimensional envelope, that is to say having a thickness.

Likewise, sachets having more than two sheets and whose receptacle volume is inevitably three-dimensional, are included in the scope of the invention, notwithstanding this simplification.

The general reference 1 designates in the figures a container. The container 1 here has the appearance of a sachet.

The illustrated examples show a container or sachet 1 as supplied to an end consumer. But the term sachet must be understood in the broad sense, and include a container as obtained at an intermediate phase of its manufacturing process, that is to say provided with a volume opening out through a space towards the outside, and not hermetically sealed. The product to be packaged is therefore not yet introduced into this intermediate container, no more than its space for introducing the product into the volume is not yet sealed. The invention is aimed equally at such a container or the sachet obtained from it.

The bag 1 comprises at least two sheets 2 and 2 '. Each sheet has an internal face and an external face. The sheets 2, 2 ′ of a bag 1 are arranged substantially opposite one another or face-to-face.

The periphery of the sheet 2 projected onto the plane of FIG. 1 being identical to that of the sheet 2 ', only the sheet 2 is visible in FIGS. 1 and 2. In the examples, this periphery is approximately polygonal, and more specially rectangular.

At least one of the sheets of the bag 1 comprises a synthetic material. For example, a sheet 2 or 2 ′ can be produced from a multilayer or "complex" film.

Each layer of complex assumes a specific function. Thus, a layer based on P.E.T. strengthens the stress resistance of the sheet. Another layer defining an internal face of the sachet comprises a polyethylene and ensures the sealing of the sheet, and therefore of the volume. Layers can also be provided for thermal insulation and / or against light of the product to be packaged.

At least one of the sheets may comprise a layer of ductile material, such as soft metal, for example aluminum.

The purpose of such a layer is to allow the corresponding sheet to undergo and keep plastic deformation, in particular by folding. Such a material constitutes at least partially means of stiffening the sachet, capable of giving it a hold, that is to say to make it substantially retains the shape which has been given to it, except to subject it to deformation. plastics.

Other materials can also enter into the composition of one or other of the sheets 2, 2 '. A sheet may comprise a cellulosic material such as paper, possibly combined with a product such as a fatty substance, dye or ink. Mesh fibers of carbonaceous materials can also be used in the composition of the sheets 2, 2 '.

The bag 1 comprises at least one edge-to-edge sealing margin of the sheets between them. The quadrangular bag 1 of Figures 1 to 4 has four margins 3 to 6. The margins 3 and 5 are substantially parallel, and extend in the longitudinal direction of the bag 1. A sealing margin 4 extends transversely to the base of the bag 1, between the base ends of the longitudinal margins 3 and 5. A second transverse sealing margin 6 is provided opposite the margin 4, in the longitudinal direction, and constitutes the top of the bag 1 as illustrated.

A sealing margin is defined by at least one outer edge of the container 1. The longitudinal outer edges 7 and 9 are partially defined by the margins 3 and 5, respectively. The sealing margin 4 totally defines a basic transverse edge 8 of the bag 1. A transverse top edge 10 is defined by the margin 6. The latter is also delimited externally, in the longitudinal direction of the bag, by top portions of the edges 7 and 9.

The margins 3 and 6 delimit, inwardly and jointly with the internal faces of the sheets 2 and 2 ', a volume 11 capable of containing any product, in the manner of a container.

Note that in the case of an intermediate container as mentioned above, a test passage space provided in one of the sealing margins, so that the volume 11 opens or is connected to the outside, to allow introduce the product. Any of the margins of the bag can be provided with this insertion space.

The volume 11 may comprise several compartments which are sealed relative to each other, and which are each capable of receiving a dose of a product, possibly different from the other products packed in the same bag 1. As for example in the case where the bag 1 is used packaging to a nonwoven paper towel soaked in perfume, the product includes a solid.

As the final aim of the sachet is to allow a substantially or totally hermetic packaging of a product, it is clear that the passageway or space for introducing the product into the volume can be sealed off after the product has been introduced. This closure can be obtained by making a sealing margin, or part of such a margin. This particularly economical solution is not imperative, and can be replaced by adding a closure member to the insertion space.

A predetermined location for irreversible opening and unloading from the volume 11 of the packaged product is to be provided on the bag 1.

By "irreversible" is meant that once the opening formed or provided at this location has been released, it can be closed using the means which initially kept it closed is ineffective or even impossible. This is the case of torn sheets or an adhesive member stuck to the sachet.

Indeed, an unloading orifice can be produced in one of the sheets 2, 2 ′, for example at the level of a margin of the bag 1. Such an orifice needs to be closed by a member after filling of the volume.

Such an orifice made in advance is only one possible type of means for opening the volume.

In the examples, the means for opening the volume 11 comprise at least one tearing primer 12 on one of the margins of the bag 1. Here, the primer 12 is formed on the longitudinal margin 5 and extends along a line discontinuous on which alternate cuttings and frangible bridges or breakable sections of the sealed sheets 2, 2 '.

One end of the line defined by the tearing primer 12 opens to the outside of the bag 1 at the longitudinal edge 9. At its other end, the primer line 12 has a tangent T.

The tangent T (fig. 1) intersects the volume 11. More precisely, the tangent T intersects at least two limits 13 and 14 between on the one hand the volume 11, and on the other hand the sealing margins 6 and 5, respectively.

One or more gripping tabs 15 (absent following their tearing in FIGS. 2 to 4) also form part of the bag 1. The tab 15 has come in one piece with the sealing margin 5. It extends between the primer 12 and the longitudinal edge 9 of the bag.

By pulling on the tongue 15 from the end of the primer 12 opening at the edge 9 and towards the other end of this primer, the sheets 2, 2 ′ making up the margin 5 tear. Initially, the tearing is carried out according to the cuttings and breakable sections of the primer 12. Next, the sheets of the margin 5 tear from the limit 14 to the limit 13 of the volume 11.

This last phase of tearing is easier than the previous one since it is carried out by means of the tongue, the transverse dimension of which increases near the limit 14.

It is at a predetermined location between the limits 13 and 14, and close to the tangent T, that the tearing of the sheets 2 and 2 'forms in the volume 11 hitherto closed, an opening 16 (Figures 2 and 3) . The margin 6 also undergoes a tearing, after the opening 16 has been formed. Preferably, this tearing makes it possible to detach the tongue 15 from the bag 1.

After tearing and clearing of the opening 16 at the predetermined location close to T, the packaged product can be extracted or discharged from the bag 1, by pressure on the latter, in particular.

• un volet intermédiaire 18 et un volet d'accrochage 28, respectivement solidaires d'une marge ;
• une première (17) et une seconde (27) zones de pliage, reliant respectivement les volets intermédiaire 18 et d'accrochage 28 au volume 11, depuis au moins un bord de la marge correspondante ; et
• des moyens d'ancrage 25 coopérant au moins avec le volet d'accrochage 28 afin de l'immobiliser par rapport au reste du sachet 1.

According to the invention, the bag 1 also comprises at least:

• an intermediate flap 18 and an attachment flap 28, respectively integral with a margin;
• a first (17) and a second (27) folding zones, respectively connecting the intermediate flaps 18 and attachment 28 to the volume 11, from at least one edge of the corresponding margin; and
• anchoring means 25 cooperating at least with the attachment flap 28 in order to immobilize it relative to the rest of the bag 1.

This arrangement makes it possible to connect the flaps 18, 28 and the rest of the bag 1 in a flexible and folding manner. For this purpose, the folding zones 17, 27 each have a discontinuous line of structure similar to the primer 12.

From the initial state of the bag (FIG. 1), the flaps 18, 28 can therefore be folded against one or the other of the external faces of the sheets 2, 2 ′ at the level of the volume 11, and this by folding according to the line defined by the corresponding zone.

Once folded against the volume 11, each flap 18, 28 (cf. FIGS. 3 and 4) comes to the right of the location of the opening 16.

According to the example illustrated, the intermediate flaps 18 and attachment 28 are integral with the same margin 6.

In fact, these components came from scratch with margin 6.

In addition, the intermediate flap 18 and the attachment flap 28 are connected to each other by the folding zone 27, so that the attachment flap 28 is at least partially connected to the margin 6 by the second folding zone 27 as well as through the flap 18.

In this case, the flaps must be folded down successively.

According to the example illustrated, the first and second folding zones are intersecting, and extend substantially at right angles, to define on the margin 6, an inverted "T".

The assembly constituted by the flaps 18, 28 has here the shape of a pan which extends projecting towards the top of the bag 1, opposite the volume 11 relative to the limit 13.

Here, the assembly comprising the flaps 18, 28 extends along an approximately parallel plane and coincides with the general median plane of the bag.

Consider that the bag 1 in its initial state is horizontal, and fold the assembly formed by the flaps 18, 28, according to the zone 17 by making it perform a movement towards the external face of the sheet 2 '. At this assembly, an external face (cf. fig. 3 - ref. 2 ′) is therefore oriented at an angle of 180 ° relative to its initial position.

This state of the bag 1 illustrated in FIG. 3 is said to be an intermediate folding state.

FIG. 2 represents an open state, in general preceding the intermediate folding state, and obtained by tearing the tongue 15, according to a normal user manual for the bag 1.

In Figure 4, we see a closed state of the bag 1. This state is subsequent to that of Figure 3 since after having folded down the assembly formed by the flaps 18, 28, it is the flap 28 which is folded in isolation according to its folding zone 27. This folding is carried out, in the hypothesis defined above, so that at the level of the flap 28, the face made of material with the sheet 2 ′ is pressed against the sheet 2, at the level of the volume 11 and more particularly to the right of the predetermined unloading location.

This position is maintained by the anchoring means 25, which are provided to make each flap fixedly secured to the corresponding external face.

Thus, the unloading location is enclosed in a substantially sealed manner, even after the opening of its opening 16.

It appears from FIG. 3 that the folding zone of a flap, and preferably that of the attachment flap 28, extends to a location close but offset towards the inside of the bag 1, relative to the predetermined unloading location.

In this way, the sheets are formed by folding at the level of this flap 28, a sealing reverse, when this flap is folded down. In other words, an area 29 defined by the limit 13, the folding area 27 and the opening 16 is provided to form a cuff. Now, in the state of intermediate folding, a corresponding part of the flap 28 is in line with this cuff 29. When passing to the closed state, the folding of the flap 28 also causes that of the cuff 29.

To ensure the bag in an effective closed state, the flaps 18, 28, the folding zones 17, 27 and the predetermined location of the opening 16 of the volume, must meet certain geometric conditions.

Considering that the location of the opening 16 and the tangent T are substantially coincident, the dimension relative to the location, of each flap 18, 28 between its folding zone and the opposite edge of the bag, must be at least equal to the distance between the zone and the limit of the volume 11 cut by the tangent as well as the most distant from the zone, here the limit 14.

This first condition allows the two flaps to come to the right of the location of the opening 16, when they are folded down, and this over a distance from T, greater than the distance separating it from this tangent T. This distance defines the value whose flap 28 exceeds the opening.

In addition, the dimension of each flap 18, 28 in the intermediate folding position, at right and projecting from the location of the opening 16, in the direction of the tangent, is designed to be at least equal to the corresponding dimension of the opening. This allows the flap 28 to be as "wide" as the opening to the right of which it can be placed. Thus, the opening can be completely wrapped.

Various locations of the shutters and their folding zone are possible. These locations can be chosen at one of the sealing margins 3, 4 or 5, if the conditions mentioned above are met.

The margins 3 to 6 each define, outside the volume 11, a border for securing the two sheets 2, 2 'for example by gluing, heat welding or the like.

This type of assembly of the sheets 2 and 2 'gives the sealing margins, and in particular the margin 6 with which the flaps have come in one piece, a certain rigidity. This rigidity is sufficient for the bag 1 to keep its appearance while it is being handled under normal conditions, and also allows the flaps 18, 28 to better cooperate with the means 25 and therefore to ensure that they are kept in the closed position.

The arrangement of the illustrated bag 1 makes it possible to limit the amount of material necessary for the implementation of the invention.

For this purpose, the margin 5 provided with the tearing primer 12 and the margin 6 with which the assembly is integral 18, 28 are connected to each other, and are preferably connected.

If the opening means are different, it is the margins provided with the opening location and the product receptacle that should be brought together inside the structure of the bag.

Like the tear-off starter 12, the folding zone 17 has between its ends (between the edges 7 and 9) a bend 19.

The section of the zone 17 which opens at the edge 7, can extend thanks to the presence of the elbow 19, towards the edge 9 opposite this end, in a direction not perpendicular to the edge 7, that is to say forming an acute or obtuse angle with the latter, and therefore different from 90 °.

The section of the folding zone 17 which extends between the elbow 19 and the edge 9 closest to the location of the opening 16, is precut and / or frangible. This allows its separation from the sealing margin 5, and the joint flap to be folded along the section of the area 17 between the elbow 19 and the edge 7. This section only has surface cutouts, in order to preserve the solidity of the junction between the receptacle and the bag 1 proper.

In the examples, the tangent T intersects the folding region 17. Preferably, at the intersection of the tangent T and the region 17, the latter are substantially perpendicular to each other.

In addition, the volume 11 comprises a spout 20, between the limits 13 and 14. The spout 20 projects from the margin 5 adjacent to the opening location 16 and towards the outer edge 9 thereof. This spout has moderate dimensions and makes it possible to limit the extent of the opening 16 in the volume 11, to a predetermined value.

The dimension of the spout 20 along T is of the order of a few millimeters, and approximately 15 mm. It is designed to allow an almost constant flow of the product contained in the volume 11, during its unloading. In addition, this dimension corresponds to the tearing length, which by virtue of its reduced amplitude, is carried out easily and without significant risk of deviation from the intended location. The spout 20 therefore allows easier opening of the bag 1, as well as an easy and clean metering of its content.

Furthermore, the tongue 15 on the one hand of the primer 12, and a limit 21 of the volume 11 on the other hand, have parts that are substantially rectilinear and parallel to a contiguous part of the edge 9. It is on this edge that opens an end bend 22 from the primer 12.

This arrangement makes it possible, by arranging the rectilinear parts parallel to a longitudinal edge of the bag 1, to give the tongue 15 a dimension which allows it to be easily taken between the fingers, without, however, this making the corresponding margin too bulky. The rectilinear parts have in the direction of the edge which is contiguous to them, a length greater than the corresponding dimension of the spout 20 delimiting the opening 16.

In addition, the primer 12 has a bend 23 oriented towards the inside of the bag 1, at its end opposite the opening bend 22. The bend 23 widens the tongue 15 near the location of the opening 16, which gives this tongue increased solidity. This occurs favorably during the tearing of the opening 16, by facilitating the obtaining of a more rectilinear lip.

Furthermore, various means for anchoring the flaps against the bag itself can be provided.

The anchoring means 25 can thus comprise an adhesive interposed between an external face of the bag 1 and a corresponding face of one and / or the other of the flaps, in the folded position.

Otherwise, the anchoring means 25 may comprise the means for stiffening one or more sealing margins. This type of means allows plastic deformation of at least part of the margin in question, to oppose the unfolding of a flap at least, a connection by obstacle or stop formed by this part.

According to the example illustrated, the anchoring means 25 comprise on the one hand an end portion 30 of a flap, here the flap 28, and on the other hand a housing 31, opening at least on an external face of the bag 1 and extending relative to the predetermined unloading location (16) opposite the corresponding folding zone 17 of this flap.

Here, the part 30 defines a substantially right angle, between on the one hand the edge 9 of the flap 28 and on the other hand the pre-cut section of the area 17 between the elbow 19 and the edge 9. The corner part 30 is therefore arranged opposite the predetermined unloading location 16, with respect to the corresponding folding zone 17, in the initial and open state of the bag.

In fact, by first folding in relation to zone 17, then in relation to zone 27, the flap 28, its corner part 30 can penetrate and get caught in the housing 31.

The housing 31 here has the form of a slot passing right through the bag, perpendicular to its general plane. The slot is oriented transversely relative to the bag, that is to say approximately parallel to the edge 4.

It is formed on the margin 5 near the limit 21, and therefore at a level located between the elbows 22 and 23 of the tear initiator, in the longitudinal direction of the sachet.

In this direction, the dimension or height of the slot 31 is slightly greater than the thickness of the sheets 2, 2 'at the part 30, where they are sealed.

Perpendicularly, the dimension or width of the slot 31 is of the order of a few millimeters. Preferably, the slot 31 measures, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction in which the part 30 is inserted and immobilized in this housing 31 from the external face where the latter opens, between 5 and 15 mm.

Furthermore, a device for receiving the product discharged from the volume 11 can be provided on the flap 28, and arranged to come to the right of the location of the opening 16, in the intermediate folding state of the bag.

Similarly, an accessory such as a brush or applicator pad can be made integral with the bag 1. Due to their rigidity, one of the flaps 18, 28 constitutes a practical support for such accessories. The applicators are held on the sachet by means of detachable fixing means. These detachable means which cooperate with the bag 1 may include an adhesive and / or an elastic clip called a "clip".

Such accessories can therefore be detached from the bag 1, after which the latter can be opened. In the case where the content of the volume 11 is a fluid or pulverulent product, it is then possible to dip the applicator end of the accessories in the product, or to soak them.

The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a bag such as the one just described.

The technology allowing the implementation of the invention has its roots in documents such as FR-A-2 641 518 or in specialized literature, for example "modern packaging", vol. 35, n ° 5, January 1962, pages 90 to 92; Thierems.

• agencer approximativement en regard l'une de l'autre deux feuilles souples mais déformables plastiquement par pliage, chaque feuille définissant une face interne et une face externe du sachet ;
• sceller les bords des feuilles par une marge, et prévoir des moyens de rigidification coopérant avec la marge ;
• délimiter avec la marge et entre les faces internes des feuilles, un volume apte à contenir le produit ;
• ménager un espace débouchant dans le volume et permettant d'y introduire le produit, cet espace étant obturable après introduction du produit, par exemple à l'aide d'une marge de scellement ; et
• prévoir un emplacement prédéterminé de déchargement du produit emballé et d'ouverture irréversible du volume suite à l'obturation de l'espace d'introduction ;
     caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte en outre les étapes suivantes consistant à :
• rendre un volet intermédiaire et un volet d'accrochage respectivement solidaires d'une marge ;
• ménager une première et une seconde zones de pliage reliant respectivement les volets intermédiaires et d'accrochage au volume, depuis au moins un bord de la marge corespondante ; et
• prévoir des moyens d'ancrage coopérant au moins avec le volet d'accrochage afin de l'immobiliser par rapport au reste du sachet ;
• le volet intermédiaire et le volet d'accrochage pouvant être rabattus respectivement contre l'une ou l'autre des faces externes du sachet par pliage suivant la première et la seconde zones, au droit de l'emplacement prédéterminé de déchargement, tandis que les moyens d'ancrage sont à même de rendre chaque volet fixement solidaire de la face externe correspondante, de sorte que l'emplacement de déchargement se trouve enfermé de façon sensiblement étanche, même suite à son ouverture.

The method based on the teaching of these documents in particular, aims at the manufacture of a substantially hermetic packaging sachet of a product in particular pulverulent, pasty or fluid, and comprising the steps consisting in:

• arranging approximately opposite one another two flexible sheets but plastically deformable by folding, each sheet defining an internal face and an external face of the sachet;
• seal the edges of the sheets with a margin, and provide stiffening means cooperating with the margin;
• delimit with the margin and between the internal faces of the leaves, a volume capable of containing the product;
• provide a space opening into the volume and allowing the product to be introduced therein, this space being closable after introduction of the product, for example using a sealing margin; and
• provide a predetermined location for unloading the packaged product and irreversible opening of the volume after the obturation of the introduction space;
  characterized in that it further comprises the following steps consisting in:
• making an intermediate flap and an attachment flap respectively secured to a margin;
• providing first and second folding zones respectively connecting the intermediate flaps and hooking to the volume, from at least one edge of the corresponding margin; and
• provide anchoring means cooperating at least with the attachment flap in order to immobilize it relative to the rest of the bag;
• the intermediate flap and the attachment flap which can be folded respectively against one or the other of the external faces of the bag by folding along the first and second zones, in line with the predetermined unloading location, while the means anchors are able to make each flap fixedly integral with the corresponding external face, so that the unloading location is enclosed in a substantially sealed manner, even after it has been opened.

The method of the invention has the particularity that at least two flaps are arranged on one or more margins of the bag 1, while folding zones are formed between the volume 11 and the corresponding outer edge of the bag.

It should be noted that the sachet obtained according to this process does not alter the compressive strength of the sachet, compared to that which an equivalent sachet would have but lacking means allowing it to be closed.

The flaps can be formed during a sealing step. On the other hand, the precut as well as the punching are preferably carried out at a later stage, and on a special machine, to avoid having to increase the technical complexity of the machines responsible for the preceding stages of the process, and in particular of the assembly of the product sheets and packaging.

For the rest, the sachet as described above can be obtained simply using tools and equipment such as stamping dies, sealing punches, heat-sealing irons and the like, depending on the shape of the sachet that one wishes to obtain.

Consequently, since the sachet according to the invention can be obtained with equipment close to those which are used for the production of sachets of the prior art, the industrialization of this product proves to be inexpensive, and of a competitive economy.

Claims (30)

Sachet for packaging, in a substantially hermetic manner, of a product in particular pulverulent, pasty or fluid, and comprising at least: two sheets (2, 2 ') flexible but plastically deformable by folding and arranged approximately opposite one another , each sheet defining an internal face and an external face of the sachet (1); a margin (3-6) for sealing the edges of the sheets and provided with stiffening means; a volume (11) which delimits the internal faces of the sheets with the margin, and capable of containing the product; a space opening into the volume and making it possible to introduce the product therein, this space being closable after introduction of the product, for example using a sealing margin; and a predetermined location for discharging the packaged product and for irreversible opening (16) of the volume (11) following closure of the insertion space;
characterized in that the bag (1) comprises at least: an intermediate flap (18) and an attachment flap (28), respectively integral with a margin (6) a first (17) and a second (27) zone folding, connecting respectively the flaps (18, 28) intermediate and hooking to the volume (11), from at least one edge (10, 7, 9) of the corresponding margin (6); and anchoring means (25) cooperating at least with the attachment flap in order to immobilize it relative to the rest of the bag (1); the intermediate flap (18) and the attachment flap (28) which can be folded respectively against one or the other of the external faces of the bag, by folding according to the first (17) and the second (27) zones, at right of the predetermined clearance location, while the anchoring means (25) are capable of rendering each flap (18, 28) fixedly secured to the corresponding external face, so that the unloading location is enclosed in a substantially sealed manner, even after it has been opened. Bag according to claim 1, characterized in that it is provided with irreversible means (12, 15) for releasing an opening (16) at the predetermined location, such as for example an insert member for closing an opening. preformed or initiation of tearing. Bag according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the folding zone (27) of a flap, and preferably that of the catching flap (28), extends to a location close but offset inwards of the bag (1) relative to the predetermined unloading location, so as to form by folding the sheets (2, 2 ′) a sealing cuff (29), when this flap is folded down. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the intermediate flap (18) and / or the fastening flap (28) have come integrally with the corresponding (6) or margin (s) ). Bag according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the intermediate and attachment flaps (18, 28) are integral with the same margin (6). Bag according to claim 5, characterized in that the hooking flap is at least partially connected to the margin (6) by the second folding zone (27), the flaps (18, 28) to be folded successively in this case. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the first and second folding zones (17, 27) are intersecting. Bag according to claim 7, characterized in that the folding zones (17, 27) are substantially perpendicular. Bag according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, when projected onto a plane parallel to the general plane of a sealing margin, the bag of the invention in its initial state, is approximately in polygonal shape, and preferably rectangle. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the anchoring means (25) comprise an adhesive interposed between an external face of the bag (1) and a corresponding face of one and / or the other flaps, in the folded position. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the anchoring means (25) comprise means for stiffening one or more sealing margins (3-6), which allow by plastic deformation of part of this margin, to oppose the unfolding of a flap (18, 28) at least, a connection by obstacle or stop formed by this part. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the anchoring means (25) comprise on the one hand an end part (30) of a flap (28) and on the other hand, a housing (31) emerging from at least one external face of the bag (1) and extending relative to the predetermined unloading location, opposite the corresponding folding zone (17), the end part (30) of the flap can be immobilized by insertion into the housing (31) from the external face where the latter opens. Bag according to claim 12, characterized in that the housing (31) has a slot passing right through the bag (1), perpendicular to its general plane. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the anchoring means (25) are at least partially arranged on a margin (5), near the opening location. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that at least one of the sheets (2, 2 ') comprises a synthetic material, and preferably a film with multiple layers or "complex". Bag according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that at least one of the sheets (2, 2 ') comprises a layer of ductile material, such as soft metal, for example aluminum. Bag according to one of Claims 1 to 16, characterized in that at least one sealing margin (3-6) comprises a border for bonding, heat-sealing or the like of the sheets. Bag according to one of claims 2 to 17, characterized in that the tear-off primer (12) and / or at least one of the folding zones (17, 27) comprises a discontinuous line of cuts and frangible sections leaves, alternately. Bag according to one of claims 2 to 18, characterized in that between its ends, the tearing primer (12) comprises at least one bend (22, 23). Bag according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the volume (11) comprises a spout (20) projecting into at least one margin close to the unloading location and towards an external edge (9) of the bag (1). Bag according to one of claims 2 to 20, characterized in that a tongue (15) for gripping on the one hand the primer (12) and a limit (21) in the volume (11) on the other hand, have parts that are substantially rectilinear and parallel to a connected part of an edge (9) of the bag (1) where an elbow (22) at the end of the primer opens. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that a margin (5) provided with the predetermined location (16) and at least one margin (6) comprising the flap (s), are connected l 'to each other, and are preferably related. Bag according to one of claims 2 to 22, characterized in that a tangent (T) at one end of the primer (12), opposite an edge (9) where it opens, is intersecting at at least one folding area (17), and is advantageously perpendicular to the latter at their intersection. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that at least at one of its ends opening onto an edge, at least one folding zone (17, 27) extends towards an opposite edge of the bag in a direction forming an angle different from 90 ° relative to this edge. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that at least one folding zone (17) of a flap comprises a bend (19) between its two ends, a section of this zone which extends between the elbow and the edge (9) of the bag closest to the folding zone of the other flap, is precut and / or frangible. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 25, characterized in that at least one of the flaps (18, 23) comprises a product receiving member, capable of coming into line with the location of the opening, after this flap has been folded down according to a folding zone. Bag according to one of claims 1 to 26, characterized in that an accessory such as a brush and / or application pad can be immobilized on the bag (1) preferably at the level of a flap (18, 28) , by means of detachable fixing means. Bag according to claim 27, characterized in that these means comprise an adhesive and / or an elastic clip called a "clip". Method for manufacturing a substantially hermetic packaging sachet of a product in particular pulverulent, pasty or fluid, and comprising the steps consisting in: - Arranging approximately opposite one another two sheets (2, 2 ') flexible but plastically deformable by folding, each sheet defining an internal face and an external face of the sachet (1); - seal the edges of the sheets with a margin (3-6), and provide stiffening means cooperating with the margin; - delimit with the margin and between the internal faces of the sheets, a volume (11) capable of containing the product; - Provide a space opening into the volume (11) and allowing the product to be introduced therein, this space being closable after introduction of the product, for example using a sealing margin; and - Provide a predetermined location for unloading the packaged product and irreversible opening (16) of the volume following the closure of the introduction space; characterized in that it further comprises the following steps consisting in: - Making an intermediate flap (18) and a fastening flap (28) respectively secured to a margin (6); - Provide first and second folding zones (17, 27) respectively connecting the intermediate flaps and attachment to the volume (11), from at least one edge of the corresponding margin; and - Provide anchoring means (25) cooperating at least with the attachment flap to immobilize it relative to the rest of the bag; - the intermediate flap and the attachment flap which can be folded respectively against one or the other of the external faces of the bag (1) by folding along the first (17) and the second (27) zones, in line with the predetermined unloading location, while the anchoring means are capable of making each shutter fixedly secured to the corresponding external face, so that the unloading location is enclosed in a substantially sealed manner, even after it has been opened. Method for manufacturing a substantially hermetic packaging sachet (1) for a product in particular powdery, pasty or fluid, characterized in that the sachet (1) obtained conforms to one of claims 1 to 28.

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