DESC:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[001] The present invention relates to the field of flexible packaging, specifically to a tamper-evident, re-closeable package for bulk products. More particularly, the invention addresses the need for a secure packaging solution that offers both tamper-evidence and barrier protection for the contents till unopened, especially for sensitive products like food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other industrial goods that require protection from environmental factors such as moisture and gases.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Tamper-evident flexible packages are commonly used in packaging industries to meet the demands of consumers. More often, in view of providing tamper-evidence to the re-closable flexible packages, tamper-evident diaphragms are configured to re-closable flexible packages with re-closable means such as zipper with or without slider, in several ways. The tamper-evident diaphragm generally has a scoring which gets torn away from the middle on applying force to access the content inside the re-closable flexible packages.
[003] Packaging systems have long been used to contain products, protect them during transportation, and ensure their integrity until use. However, conventional packaging systems, especially those with re-closable zippers, often lack effective tamper-evident features or fail to provide adequate protection against contamination, moisture, or oxygen infiltration. This problem is especially acute in bulk packaging, where product integrity must be maintained for prolonged periods of time, often under conditions of heavy handling or exposure to environmental factors during transportation and storage.
[004] The present invention provides a cost-effective, tamper-evident, and re-closeable package that integrates an innovative design. The invention improves upon prior art by incorporating a tamper-evident diaphragm that provides enhanced barrier protection to the contents of the package, offering a visible sign of tampering while offering the ease of reclosing with enhanced locking of zipper chain.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[005] The main object of the present invention is to provide a re-closeable flexible packaging system that incorporates both tamper-evident and barrier protection features to secure sensitive products such as food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, fertilizers and industrial goods, ensuring that the integrity of the contents is maintained throughout the life cycle of the package before opening.
[006] Another object of the present invention is to offer a tamper-evident packaging solution providing a visible sign of any tampering while making it easy for consumers to detect if the package has been previously opened or compromised and allows easy access to the contents after first opening.
[007] Another object of the present invention is to improve upon traditional re-closable means on flexible packages having polymeric extruded zipper with or without slider, by incorporating a much stronger zipper chain with a tamper-evident diaphragm that is securely positioned inside the package between the zipper chain tapes and the front and back panels.
[008] Another object of the present invention is to provide enhanced barrier protection against environmental factors such as moisture, gases, and contaminants, which could degrade the quality of the packaged product, by integrating a tamper-evident diaphragm made from films / laminates with superior barrier properties matching with the barrier properties of the package panels.
[009] Another object of the present invention is to enable cost-effective and efficient manufacturing of tamper-evident re-closable packages by integrating the tamper-evident diaphragm directly into the package design, eliminating the need for additional complex or costly sealing mechanisms.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to ensure durability and ease of opening of the tamper-evident diaphragm by using polymeric films, metalized substrates, or multi-layer laminates that are securely configured with the zipper chain assembly and the front and back panels through various techniques like stitching, adhesive bonding, heat sealing or ultrasonic sealing or a combination thereof.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide an intuitive and user-friendly design that maintains the convenience of re-closure through a zipper chain assembly while ensuring that any tampering with the package is at once visible to the user.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to offer flexibility in packaging applications by allowing customization of the diaphragm's structure based on specific product needs for barrier properties such as MVTR (Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate) and OTR (Oxygen Transmission Rate) for sensitive products and contamination prevention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention provides a flexible re-closeable package designed to offer tamper-evidence and enhanced barrier protection for the contents. The package includes a front panel and a back panel made from a flexible substrate, which are joined together to form an enclosure for the product.
[0014] A zipper chain assembly is secured along the top portion of the enclosure, enabling the package to be opened and reclosed. The zipper chain assembly includes two mating zipper chain tapes, which extend parallel to the front and back panels, and a slider that engages and disengages the zipper locking elements to allow for easy opening and closing of the package by sliding the slider.
[0015] A key feature of the invention is the incorporation of a tamper-evident diaphragm with enhanced barrier protection to the package contents, positioned inside the package, with the zipper chain tapes and the front and back panels. The diaphragm is secured to both the zipper chain tapes and the panels. This diaphragm prevents access to the packaged product without tearing the diaphragm even if the zipper chain is opened, leaving a visible sign of tampering, ensuring that the integrity of the package is maintained.
[0016] This design ensures that the package remains secure and tamper-evident, while also offering protection against environmental factors, such as moisture or gases permeability, which could spoil the product inside. The tamper-evident diaphragm provides a visible rupture upon the first opening of the package, allowing consumers to easily detect whether the package has been tampered with.
[0017] In summary, the invention offers a cost-effective, re-closeable packaging solution that integrates protection of the contents from environmental influences by offering enhanced barrier properties and a tamper-evident diaphragm for enhanced product security and tamper prevention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The advantages and features of the invention shall be better understood with reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, wherein like elements are identified with like symbols and in which:
[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a package, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the zipper Chain & Diaphragm assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-section view from gusset side of the package, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-section view from gusset side of the package, in accordance with another embodiment of the invention; and
[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates a flattened and unfilled package, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0024] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the description of several views of the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0025] For a thorough understanding of the invention, reference is to be made to the following detailed description in connection with the above-mentioned drawings. Although the invention is described in connection with invention, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific forms set forth herein. It is understood that various omissions and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstances may suggest or render expedient, but these are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Further, it will nevertheless be understood that no limitation in the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the figures and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated, therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Further, reference herein to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, characteristic, or function described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Furthermore, the appearances of such phrases at various places herein are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items.
[0026] The flexible tamper-evident re-closeable package described in the present invention incorporates a diaphragm that offers both tamper-evidence and enhanced barrier protection for products meant to be stored in the package. The detailed structure and operation of the package are described below.
[0027] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a package (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The package (100) is configured from a web forming a tube by sealing overlapped transverse edges (138), (140) of the web. The tube is flattened to provide a front panel (102) and a back panel (104), the tube’s substrate having an inner surface (102i, 104i) and an outer surface (102o, 104o). The package (100) may be provided with two side gussets (106) by folding the left and right edges of the tube inwards in vee shape which expand when the package (100) is filled with product. The package (100) further defines a top portion (105) and a bottom portion (107). The side gussets (106), the top portion (105), and the bottom portion (107) define an enclosure therebetween. The package (100) is generally manufactured in a flattened state with the top portion (105) being closed and the bottom portion (107) remaining open (See FIG. 5) to provide an opening to fill the package (100) that is closed after the package (100) is filled.
[0028] In another embodiment, the front panel (102) and the back panel (104) may be provided as separate webs and two separate side gussets (106) are configured with the front panel edges (102-2) and the back panel edges (104-2) to form the enclosure with top portion (105) and the bottom portion (107). In an alternate embodiment, the front panel edges (102-2) and the corresponding back panel edges (104-2) may be sealed to form an enclosure with the top portion (105) and the bottom portion (107). The enclosure is configured to contain products like food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other industrial goods that require protection from tampering and environmental factors. In an embodiment, the side gussets (106) may be transparent or transparent window(s) may be provided on the front panel (102), the back panel (104) or the side gussets (106) or combination thereof, for viewing the contents of the package (100).
[0029] In an embodiment, the front panel (102) and the back panel (104) are made of a flexible substrate. The panels (102), (104) may be made of polymeric film, laminate, or woven fabrics, depending upon the specific requirements for strength, flexibility, and barrier properties. The panels (102), (104) can be made from a variety of polymers including but not limited to, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), PA nylon (Polyamide), Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene (PE), Ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH), Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), Bio-degradable polymers such as Polylactic acid (PLA), Polycaprolactone (PCL), Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), Poly (butylene succinate) (PBS), Polyglycolic Acid (PGA), Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), Polyanhydrides, Polyurethanes etc. or combination thereof, depending on the application. In an example, the front panel (102), the back panel (104), and the side gussets (106) are made of a flexible substrate of woven fabrics including at least one or in combinations with Woven Polypropylene (WPP), Woven Polyethylene (WPE) fabric with or without extrusion lamination / coating of Polypropylene or Polyethylene or Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) or Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), wherein provision of extrusion coating of Polypropylene or Polyethylene on the inner surface (102i, 104i) of the substrate enhances sealing and barrier properties, and wherein provision of extrusion lamination of Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) or Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) film on the outer surface (102o, 104o) of the substrate for reverse printing and / or surface printing . However, the substrate web may be single layer or multilayer film or laminate having compatible polymers on the inner surface (102i, 104i) and outer surface (102o, 104o) for overlap sealing. In certain embodiments, the front and the back panels (102), (104) may be printed with product graphics, logos, or other consumer information and may be configured with aesthetic and security elements like holograms, optical patterns, pictures, Fresnel lens, bar codes, QR codes, RF id’s, magnetic markers, , text, logo, images. Additionally, Taggants or tracers may be provided in any layer of the substrate for covert unique identification and anti-counterfeit protection.
[0030] According to an exemplary embodiment, the flexible package (100) is made of flexible substrates of suitable thickness having good burst strength, such as single or multilayer polymeric film or a laminate with or without a metal foil or metallization, and a fibrous substrate or combination thereof. The fibrous substrate can be at least one of a natural fibre substrate like paper (coated or uncoated), paperboard, non-woven, woven substrate of synthetic fibres.
[0031] The single or multilayer polymeric films can be at least one or in combinations with Polyethylene (PE), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) film, Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) film, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) film, Poly Carbonate (PC), Cast Polypropylene (CPP) film, Mylar, Polyamide (PA), Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH) and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate or any other polymer or Biodegradable polymer such as Polylactic acid (PLA), Polycaprolactone (PCL), Poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), Poly (butylene succinate) (PBS), Polyglycolic Acid (PGA), Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), Polyanhydrides, Polyurethanes etc. or combination thereof.
[0032] In another example, the front panel (102), the back panel (104), and the side gussets (106) are made of a flexible substrate of a laminate, with or without metallization or metal foil, including at least one or in combinations with Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyamide (PA ), Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene (PE), Ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH), Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), Bio-degradable polymers.
[0033] The metal foil can be at least one of Aluminium, Copper, Silver, any other metal or metal alloy or metalized layer of Aluminium, Aluminium Oxide, Zinc Sulphide, Silicon Oxide, Silver, Gold, Copper, Chrome, Silicon monoxide, Silicon dioxide, Magnesium fluoride, Titanium dioxide, Tin- Tungsten oxide and Indium- Tin oxide or any other suitable metal.
[0034] The substrate can be surface or reverse printed. The printed content (not shown) may be in the form of logo, trademark, picture, graphics or text or any other information as desired. The printed content may be one of text or images printed with ink, hot foil printed or stamped text or images. The substrate may also be surface treated with corona or any other suitable method or coated to increase surface energy or untreated as per the requirement of the manufacturing processes. In an embodiment, a bottom portion of the side gussets (106) is unprinted.
[0035] In an embodiment, the package (100) being configured as a tube after folding the web, transverse edges (138), (140) are overlapped and sealed by means of ultrasonic welding, high frequency welding, adhesive bonding, hot melt bonding, hot air sealing or by other suitable means known in the art. In another embodiment, the front panel edges (102-2) and the back panel edges (104-2) may be sealed together such that front and back panels form an enclosure, using aforementioned sealing means.
[0036] In yet another embodiment, the side gussets (106) as separate webs may be secured to the front panel edges (102-2) and the back panel edges (104-2) using afore mentioned sealing means.
[0037] In an embodiment, the package (100) includes at least one handle (110) configured to be fixed on the side gusset (106) or with the side edges (not shown). The handle (110) may be configured for easy carrying of the package (100) and pouring the contents of the package (100). In an alternate embodiment, a pair of handles (111) may be provided on the front panel (102) and the back panel (104) proximal to the top portion (105) of the package (100). In yet another alternate embodiment, the package (100) may be provided with both the handles (110) and (111). However, in another embodiment, the package (100) may not include any handle.
[0038] Referring to FIGs 1 and 2, in an embodiment, the package (100) further includes a zipper chain assembly (112) provided with the top portion (105). Fig. 2 illustrates a top view of the zipper chain assembly (112) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the zipper chain assembly (112) is positioned and configured to be secured along the top portion (105) of the package (100) to enable opening and closing the top portion (105) of the package (100) to access the contents packaged in the package (100).
[0039] The zipper chain assembly (112) includes a slider (114) configured with two opposing zipper chain tapes (116). The zipper chain tapes (116), on opposing edges, are provided with locking elements (118). In an embodiment, the slider (114) locks or separates the locking elements (118) placed opposite to each other on zipper chain tapes (116), when the zipper chain assembly (112) is closed or opened respectively. In an embodiment, the locking elements are the parts on each side of the zipper chain tapes (116) that mesh, or engage, with each other when the slider (114) moves in one direction, and separate when the slider (114) moves in the other direction. In an embodiment, the slider (114) is formed from polymer such as Polypropylene (PP), Acrylic, Polyamide (PA), High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polystyrene (PS), Poly carbonate (PC), Polyester, Bio-degradable polymers such as Polylactic acid (PLA), Polycaprolactone (PCL), Poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), Poly (butylene succinate) (PBS), Polyglycolic Acid (PGA), Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), Polyanhydrides, Polyurethanes etc. or metal such as brass, steel, Aluminum etc. In an embodiment, the zipper chain tapes (116) are formed from a cloth of natural or synthetic fibers / yarn, polymeric tape, or the like material. The zipper chain assembly (112) provides a means of opening and securely closing the package (100). This re-closeable feature is critical for the convenience of consumers for storage and multiple access to the package (100) where content is used multiple times and need to be kept safely over long time.
[0040] The zipper chain assembly (112) of the present invention offers much higher locking force and reliability in multiple usages compared to conventional extruded zipper sliders. The locking strength of conventional zipper sliders is not high and prone to failures in drop test stand handling in case of bulk packages.
[0041] In an embodiment, the package (100) further includes a tamper-evident diaphragm (120) with barrier properties.
[0042] Fig. 3 illustrates a cross-section view from gusset side of the package (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 3, the diaphragm (120) is configured inside the enclosure between the zipper chain tapes (116) and the front and back panels (102), (104). In an embodiment, the zipper chain tapes (116) fold downwards and extend parallel to the front panel and back panel (102), (104). Further in an embodiment, the diaphragm (120) includes a first end (122) of diaphragm and a second end (124) of diaphragm sandwiched between the zipper chain tapes (116) and the front and back panels (102), (104), respectively.
[0043] Fig. 4 illustrates a cross-section view from gusset side of the package (100) in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 4, the diaphragm (120) is configured inside the enclosure with the zipper chain tapes (116) and the front and back panels (102), (104). In this embodiment, the zipper chain tapes (116) are sandwiched between the first end (122) of diaphragm and the second end (124) of diaphragm and the front panel and the back panel (102), (104), respectively.
[0044] The diaphragm (120) is a critical feature of the invention. The diaphragm (120) provides enhanced barrier protection for the package (100) contents and ensures that the contents cannot be accessed without leaving visible signs of tampering even if zipper chain assembly (112) is opened. In an embodiment, the diaphragm (120) may be configured with security features like holograms, optical patterns, Fresnel lens, magnetic markers, or the like. Additionally, Taggants or tracers may be provided in any layer of the diaphragm’s (120) substrate for covert unique identification and anti-counterfeit protection. The diaphragm (120) may be made from polymeric mono layer film, multi-layer film, laminate with or without metallization or metal foil in a layer, depending on the desired barrier properties and durability. The film includes at least one or in combinations with Polyethylene (PE), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) film, Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) film, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) film, Poly Carbonate (PC), Cast Polypropylene (CPP) film, Mylar, Polyamide (PA), Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH), Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Biodegradable polymer. Furthermore, a polymeric diaphragm may include a layer of Ethylene-Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH) or Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVOH) for enhanced resistance to moisture and oxygen with restricted permeability for other gases, improving the shelf life and aroma of the packaged product. In alternative embodiments, the diaphragm (120) may be made from Woven Polypropylene (WPP) or Woven Polyethylene (WPE) fabric with extrusion coating or extrusion lamination with Polypropylene (PP) or Polyethylene (PE) or metalized Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or a combination thereof.
[0045] In preferred embodiments, the diaphragm (120) is designed to have different laminate layer structures such as, but not limited to, at least one or in combinations with Woven Polypropylene (WPP) or Woven Polyethylene (WPE) fabric with extrusion coating or extrusion lamination with Polypropylene (PP) or Polyethylene (PE) or Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Woven Polypropylene (WPP), Woven Polyethylene (WPE), Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP), Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP), combination of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP), or combination of Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) and Polyethylene (PE), with or without metallization or metal foil in a layer. In certain cases, the metallization may be replaced with a layer of metal foil such as Aluminum foil or foil of any other metal. The metal foil can be atleast one of Aluminium, Copper, Silver, any other metal or metal alloy or metalized layer of Aluminium, Aluminium Oxide, Zinc Sulphide, Silicon Oxide, Silver, Gold, Copper, Chrome, Silicon monoxide, Silicon dioxide, Magnesium fluoride, Titanium dioxide, Tin- Tungsten oxide and Indium- Tin oxide or any other suitable metal.
[0046] In another embodiment, the structure of the diaphragm (120) may be similar to the laminate structure of the front panel (102) and the back panel (104) offering similar barrier properties as the rest of the package (100).
[0047] In another embodiment, the diaphragm (120) may be configured as a multilayer film such as, but not limited to, combination of metalized Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP), or metalized Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) and Polyethylene (PE), etc. In certain cases, the metallization may be replaced with a layer of metal foil such as Aluminum foil or foil of any other metal.
[0048] The diaphragm (120) is securely attached to the zipper chain tapes (116) and the front and back panels (102), (104) through various methods, including stitching with natural or polymeric synthetic threads, adhesive bonding, or hot melt bonding, ultrasonic sealing, heat sealing, hot air sealing or any other suitable sealing method or combination thereof. In an embodiment, the first end (122) of diaphragm and the second end (124) of diaphragm may be secured to the zipper chain tapes (116) through stitching (130), wherein the stitching (130) is at least a single stitch line, and the zipper chain tapes (116) and the first end (122) of diaphragm and the second end (124) of diaphragm is secured with front and back panels (102), (104) through stitching (128), wherein the stitching (128) includes at least one stitch line along the zipper chain assembly (112). Referring to Figs. 3 and 4 together, the stitch line(s) of the stitching (128) jointly secures first end (122) of diaphragm, the zipper chain tapes (116), and the front (102) and similarly secures the second end (124) of diaphragm, the zipper chain tapes (116), and the back panel (104). In certain embodiments, the first end (122) of diaphragm and the second end (124) of diaphragm may be secured to the zipper chain tapes (116) through stitching (130), while the connection to the front and back panels (102), (104) can be made through hot melt bonding.
[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, the first end (122) of diaphragm and the second end (124) of diaphragm is secured to the zipper chain tapes (116) through stitching (130) and thereafter to the front panel (102) and back panel (104) through the stitching (128).
Further, in another exemplary embodiment, the first end (122) of diaphragm and the second end (124) of diaphragm are firstly secured to the zipper chain tapes (116) through the stitching (130) and subsequently to the front panel (102) and back panel (104) respectively, through hot melt bonding, the hot melt bond being provided in a sufficient width to provide desired bonding strength.
[0050] The diaphragm (120) extends along the entire length of the zipper chain assembly (112), ensuring that the contents of the package (100) are completely protected by the enhanced barrier properties of the diaphragm (120). The substrate structure and dimensions of the diaphragm (120) are designed to suit the size of the package (100) and the type of product being packaged. In an embodiment, as shown in Fig. 1, the package (100) includes edge covers (126). The ends of the top portion (105) of the enclosure are provided with edge covers (126) after configuring the zipper chain assembly (112).
The edge covers (126) being configured as stops for the sliders (114), and for further securing side edges of the gusset (106) with the zipper chain tapes (116), the diaphragm (120), and the front and back panels (102), (104). In an embodiment, the edge covers (126) may be secured to the ends of the top portion (105) of the enclosure by various methods such as stitching, adhesive bonding, hot melt bonding, heat sealing, high frequency sealing, or ultrasonic sealing. In an example, the stitching may include provision of a single stitch line or multiple stitch lines.
In order to access the content of the package (100) the slider (114) is moved such that the zipper chain assembly (112) opens and the diaphragm (120) underneath is required to be torn with a sharp object like knife or scissor. The zipper chain assembly (112) is reclosed after taking out the desired quantity of content, by moving the slider (114).
[0051] FIG. 5 shows a flattened and unfilled package (100) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The package (100) includes the front panel (102), the back panel (104), and the side gussets (106) to form the enclosure defined by the top portion (105) and the open bottom portion (107). The configuration of the package (100) is corresponding to Para [0027] – [0032], and the same is not repeated for the sake of brevity. As shown in FIG. 5, the open bottom portion (107) includes a bottom flap (132) of the back panel (104), a front panel side gusset flap (134), and a bottom panel side gusset flap (136) of the side gussets (106). Referring to Para [0027] – [0032], the web blank may be specifically dimensioned through tearing or cutting operation to define the front panel (102), the back panel (104), the side gussets (106), the front panel side gusset flap (134), and the bottom panel side gusset flap (136). In an example, the web blank can be supplied from a continuous roll stock which is finished with printing and other features on the web. Rotating drum knives or perforating punch-die arrangement or laser perforations provide perforations in stepped profile near gusset forming area across the width of the web, the roll stock remain connected as a series of connected web blanks for the package (100) that folds to obtain the front panel (102), the back panel (104), the side gussets (106). After folding and sealing overlapped transverse edges (138), (140), each connected blank will have bottom portion (107) having the front panel side gusset flap (134), the bottom panel side gusset flap (136), and bottom flap (132) which are eventually separated from one another as individual web blank.
[0052] The bottom portion (107) is configured through perforations such that one of the front or back panel (102, 104) is cut to length “a” to define a cut panel bottom edge (102-1 or 104-1), the next layer of the gusset (106) is cut to a length “b” starting from cut front panel bottom edge (102-1) and then the other layer of the gusset (106) is cut to a length “c” starting from cut front panel bottom edge (102-1). The portion “b” of the front panel side gusset flap (134) and portion “c” of the bottom panel side gusset flap (136) are sealed to each other by hot air sealing, ultrasonic welding, high frequency welding, adhesive bonding, hot melt bonding or by other suitable means in the form of one or more spot or band. The longer panel surface with front and back panel side gusset flaps (134), (136), is applied with adhesive in the band “d” and folded along the pinch bottom folding axis X - X’ overlapping the cut front panel (102). By securing portion “b” of the front panel side gusset flap (134) and portion “c” of the bottom panel side gusset flap (136) together, the side gussets (106) are effectively prevented from opening or expanding during the filling process, which ensures that the package (100) maintains its structural integrity. This precise sealing maintains the alignment of the bottom portion (107) components and also facilitates a more reliable folding and closure of the bottom portion (107) of the package (100). Furthermore, the extended surface of the gusset (106), when folded, ensures complete sealing of the edges. In this embodiment, the front panel side gusset flap (134) is smaller than the bottom panel side gusset flap (136), creating a stepped overlap with the bottom flap (132) that enhances the overall structural integrity of the package (100) by ensuring complete closure of gusset (106) near bottom portion (107) after folding and sealing, to avoid content leakage.
[0053] In an embodiment, the package (100) is configured for filling, sealing and storing with products through the open bottom portion (107). Further in an embodiment, the package (100) is held vertically with open bottom portion (107) upwards. The front and back panels (102), (104) near the open bottom portion (107) are pulled apart to wide open the package (100) and the desired quantity of the product is dropped into the package (100). After filling the package (100), adhesive or hot melt adhesive (109) is applied inline on the band “d” and the longer bottom flap (132) passes through a folder to fold along the pinch bottom folding axis X - X’ across the width of the package (100) overlapping the front panel (102), and is sealed with the front panel (102).
[0054] In another embodiment, the bottom flap (132), after filling the package (100) hot air is applied inline while the longer bottom flap (132) passes through a folder to fold along the pinch bottom folding axis X - X’ across the width of the package (100) overlapping the front panel (102), and is pinched and sealed with the front panel (102).
[0055] In an alternate embodiment after filling the package (100) the longer bottom flap (132) passes through a folder to fold along the pinch bottom folding axis X - X’ across the width of the package (100) overlapping the front panel (102) and is inline sealed with the front panel (102) using ultrasonic welding, high frequency welding, or by other suitable means known in the art.
[0056] The sealed arrangement of the bottom flap (132) with the front panel (102) and the front panel & bottom panel side gusset flaps (134), (136) is shown as a zoomed-out view “A” in FIG. 1.
[0057] The present invention addresses the deficiencies of traditional re-closable flexible packages, which may or may not have diaphragm. Even if they have diaphragm its structure often lacks effective barrier characteristics to external contaminants like moisture, oxygen and gases, etc. causing deterioration of product inside the package (100) and shelf life gets compromised. By integrating a diaphragm with well-designed structure offering desired barrier properties to the flexible package (100). The invention provides a novel solution to ensure that the contents remain secure and protected from moisture and oxygen and other gases with a clear, visible and irreversible sign of any tampering or unauthorized access. This enhanced barrier protection and tamper-evidence is achieved without compromising the ease of reclosure, ensuring that the package (100) remains convenient and functional for multiple usage.
[0058] One of the key benefits of the diaphragm’s (120) positioning is that its ends (122), (124) are placed parallel to the zipper chain tapes (116), with its ends (122), (124) secured with the zipper chain tapes (116) and the front and back panels (102), (104) of the package (100). This positioning ensures that the diaphragm (120) functions effectively as an internal barrier to external contaminants like moisture, dirt, gases, etc.
[0059] Additionally, the diaphragm (120) is securely attached to both the zipper chain tapes (116) and the front and back panels (102), (104) through various methods such as adhesive bonding, stitching, heat sealing, or ultrasonic sealing. This secure attachment ensures that the diaphragm (120) stays in place and performs its protective function till the first access of the package (100), even under conditions of heavy handling and environmental exposure. By fixing the diaphragm (120) firmly with the zipper chain assembly (112) and the package panels (102), (104), the invention ensures that the barrier protection and tamper-evident feature remains operational and does not become disengaged during use.
[0060] The integration of the diaphragm (120) with the zipper chain assembly (112) and flexible panels (102), (104) creates a cost-effective, streamlined solution for contamination free and tamper-proof packaging. The diaphragm (120) can be formed from various substrates, including polymeric films, laminates, or metalized materials, offering customization based on the specific barrier and strength requirements of the package (100). The configuration of the diaphragm (120) is corresponding to Para [0040] – [0043], and the same is not repeated for the sake of brevity.
[0061] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is understood that various omission and substitutions of equivalents are contemplated as circumstance may suggest or render expedient, but such are intended to cover the application or implementation without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention.

[0062] REFERENCE NUMERALS
100 Package
102 Front panel
102-1 Cut front panel bottom edge
102-2 Front panel edges
104 Back panel
104-2 Back panel edges
102i, 104i Inner surface
102o, 104o Outer surface
105 Top portion
106 Side gussets
107 Bottom portion
109 Hot melt adhesive
110 Handle on side gusset
111 Handles on panels
112 Zipper chain assembly
114 Slider
116 Zipper chain tapes
118 Locking elements
120 Tamper-evident diaphragm
122 First end of diaphragm
124 Second end of diaphragm
126 Edge covers
128 Stitching
130 Stitching
132 Bottom flap
134 Front panel side gusset flap
136 Bottom panel side gusset flap
138 Overlapped transverse edge
140 Overlapped transverse edge
X - X’ Pinch bottom folding axis

Dated this 24th day of March 2025.
,CLAIMS:We Claim:
1. A re-closable flexible package (100) with enhanced barrier protection, the package (100) comprising:
a front panel (102) and a back panel (104), joined together to define a top portion (105) and a bottom portion (107), wherein the top portion (105) and the bottom portion (107) define an enclosure therein between;
a zipper chain assembly (112) provided on the top portion (105), that includes a slider (114) configured with two opposing zipper chain tapes (116) having locking elements (118) disposed on the opposing edges of the zipper chain tapes (116), wherein the zipper chain tapes (116) fold downwards and extend parallel to the front panel (102) and the back panel (104),
a tamper-evident diaphragm (120) with barrier properties, hanging from the top portion (105) inside the enclosure and joined with the zipper chain tapes (116) and the front and back panels (102, 104), having a first end (122) and a second end (124), and
wherein the tamper-evident diaphragm (120) extends along an entire length of the zipper chain assembly (112).
2. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein side gussets (106) are configured between the front panel (102) and the back panel (104).
3. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the front panel (102), the back panel (104), and the side gussets (106) are made of a flexible substrate of a single layer or multilayer polymeric film including at least one or in combinations with Polyethylene (PE), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) film, Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) film, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) film, Poly Carbonate (PC), Cast Polypropylene (CPP) film, Mylar, Polyamide (PA), Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH), Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Biodegradable polymer.
4. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the front panel (102), the back panel (104), and the side gussets (106) are made of a flexible substrate of a laminate, with or without metallization or metal foil, including at least one or in combinations with Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyamide (PA ), Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene (PE), Ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH), Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), Bio-degradable polymers.
5. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the front panel (102), the back panel (104), and the side gussets (106) are made of a flexible substrate of woven fabrics including at least one or in combinations with Woven Polypropylene (WPP), Woven Polyethylene (WPE) fabric with or without extrusion coating of Polypropylene or Polyethylene on an inner surface (102i, 104i) of the substrate and / or lamination of Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) or Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) on an outer surface (102o, 104o) of the substrate.
6. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claims 3-5, wherein the flexible substrate is a fibrous substrate such as paper (coated or uncoated), paperboard, non-woven, woven substrate of synthetic fibres or combination thereof.
7. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the metal foil is at least one of Aluminium, Copper, Silver, any other metal or metal alloy or metalized layer of Aluminium, Aluminium Oxide, Zinc Sulphide, Silicon Oxide, Silver, Gold, Copper, Chrome, Silicon monoxide, Silicon dioxide, Magnesium fluoride, Titanium dioxide, Tin-Tungsten oxide and Indium-Tin oxide.
8. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the front and / or the back panel (102, 104) is surface or reverse printed.
9. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the front and / or the back panel (102, 104) is configured with one or more security elements such as holograms, optical patterns, pictures, Fresnel lens, bar codes, QR codes, RF id’s, magnetic markers, Tag ends, text, logo, image, or a combination thereof.
10. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the package (100) is configured from a tube, and wherein transverse edges (138), (140) are overlapped and sealed by means of ultrasonic welding, high frequency welding, adhesive bonding, hot melt bonding or hot air sealing.
11. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the front panel (102), the back panel (104), and the side gussets (106) are transparent or include transparent windows.
12. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a pair of handles (111) are provided on the front panel (102) and the back panel (104) proximal to the top portion (105).
13. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein at least one handle (110) is configured on at least one side gusset (106).
14. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the slider (114) is formed from polymer such as Polypropylene (PP), Acrylic, Polyamide (PA), High Density Poly Ethylene (HDPE), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polystyrene (PS), Poly carbonate (PC), Polyester, Bio-degradable polymers, or a metal such as Brass, Steel, Aluminum.
15. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the zipper chain tapes (116) are formed from a cloth of natural or synthetic fibers or yarn, polymeric tape or the like.
16. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first end (122) of diaphragm and the second end (124) of diaphragm are sandwiched between the zipper chain tapes (116) and the front panel (102) and the back panel (104), respectively.
17. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the zipper chain tapes (116) are sandwiched between the first end of diaphragm (122) and the second end of diaphragm (124), and the front panel (102) and the back panel (104), respectively.
18. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the diaphragm (120) is configured with security features such as holograms, optical patterns, pictures, Fresnel lens, magnetic markers, Taggants, or a combination thereof.
19. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the diaphragm (120) is made from one of polymeric mono layer film, multi-layer film or laminate, with or without metallization or metal foil in a layer.
20. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 19, wherein the film is at least one or in combinations with Polyethylene (PE), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) film, Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) film, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) film, Poly Carbonate (PC), Cast Polypropylene (CPP) film, Mylar, Polyamide (PA), Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol (EVOH), Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Biodegradable polymer.
21. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 19, wherein the laminate includes at least one or in combinations with Woven Polypropylene (WPP) or Woven Polyethylene (WPE) fabric with extrusion coating or extrusion lamination with Polypropylene (PP) or Polyethylene (PE) or Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Woven Polypropylene (WPP), Woven Polyethylene (WPE), Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP), Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP), combination of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and Polyethylene (PE) or Polypropylene (PP), or combination of Biaxially-Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP) and Polyethylene (PE), with or without metallization or metal foil in a layer.
22. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 19, wherein the metal foil is at least one of Aluminium, Copper, Silver, any other metal or metal alloy or metalized layer of Aluminium, Aluminium Oxide, Zinc sulphide, Silicon Oxide, Silver, Gold, Copper, Chrome, Silicon monoxide, Silicon dioxide, Magnesium fluoride, Titanium dioxide, Tin-Tungsten oxide and Indium-Tin oxide.
23. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the diaphragm (120) is securely attached to the zipper chain tapes (116) and the front and back panels (102), (104) through stitching with natural or polymeric synthetic threads, adhesive bonding, hot melt bonding, ultrasonic sealing, or combination thereof.
24. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 23, wherein the first end (122) of diaphragm and the second end (124) of diaphragm is secured to the zipper chain tapes (116), the front panel (102) and the back panel, (104) through stitching (130), wherein the stitching (130) is at least a single stitch line along the zipper chain assembly (112).
25. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 23, wherein the first end (122) of diaphragm and the second end (124) of diaphragm is secured to the zipper chain tapes (116) through stitching (130), and to the front and back panels (102), (104) through hot melt bonding.
26. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein ends of the top portion (105) of the enclosure are provided with edge covers (126) for securing side edges of the gusset (106) with the zipper chain tapes (116), the diaphragm (120), and the front and back panels (102), (104).
27. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 24, wherein the edge covers (126) are secured to the ends of the top portion (105) by stitching, adhesive bonding, hot melt bonding, heat sealing, high frequency sealing, or ultrasonic sealing.
28. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the bottom portion (107) of an unfilled package (100) is configured open.
29. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 27, wherein the package (100) is configured for filling with the product and sealing through the open bottom portion (107).
30. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 27, wherein the bottom portion (107) includes a bottom flap (132) of the back panel (104), a front panel side gusset flap (134), and a bottom panel side gusset flap (136) of the side gussets (106).
31. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 30, wherein the bottom portion (107) is configured on a web blank, wherein one of the front or back panel (102, 104) is cut to length “a” to define a cut panel bottom edge (102-1 or 104-1), the next layer of the gusset (106) is cut to a length “b” starting from cut front panel bottom edge (102-1) and then the other layer of the gusset (106) is cut to a length “c” starting from cut front panel bottom edge (102-1).
32. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 31, wherein the front panel side gusset flap (134) is smaller than the bottom panel side gusset flap (136), creating a stepped overlap with the bottom flap (132).
33. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 30, wherein portion “b” of the front panel side gusset flap (134) and portion “c” of the bottom panel side gusset flap (136) are sealed with each other by hot air sealing, ultrasonic welding, high frequency welding, adhesive bonding, hot melt bonding in the form of one or more spot or band.
34. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 32, wherein a band “d” including a longer panel surface of the bottom flap (132) with front and back panel side gusset flaps (134), (136) is applied with an adhesive (109).
35. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 33, wherein after filling with the product the longer panel surface of the bottom flap (132) is folded along a pinch bottom folding axis X - X’ across the width of the package (100) to overlap and seal with the front panel (102).
36. The flexible package (100) as claimed in claim 33, wherein, after filling the package (100) with the product, the longer bottom flap (132) is folded along a pinch bottom folding axis X - X’ across the width of the package (100) overlapping the front panel (102) and is inline sealed with the front panel (102) using ultrasonic welding, high frequency welding.

Dated this 24th day of March 2025.