US20090313945A1 - Unit Package for Insulation Products - Google Patents
Unit Package for Insulation Products Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090313945A1 US20090313945A1 US12/549,429 US54942909A US2009313945A1 US 20090313945 A1 US20090313945 A1 US 20090313945A1 US 54942909 A US54942909 A US 54942909A US 2009313945 A1 US2009313945 A1 US 2009313945A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- sleeve
- handles
- wrapper
- flexible
- forming
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 52
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims abstract 2
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- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Chemical compound O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
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- XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N Iron Chemical compound [Fe] XEEYBQQBJWHFJM-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N acrylic acid group Chemical group C(C=C)(=O)O NIXOWILDQLNWCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
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- MWCLLHOVUTZFKS-UHFFFAOYSA-N Methyl cyanoacrylate Chemical compound COC(=O)C(=C)C#N MWCLLHOVUTZFKS-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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- LCDFWRDNEPDQBV-UHFFFAOYSA-N formaldehyde;phenol;urea Chemical compound O=C.NC(N)=O.OC1=CC=CC=C1 LCDFWRDNEPDQBV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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- ISWSIDIOOBJBQZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N phenol group Chemical group C1(=CC=CC=C1)O ISWSIDIOOBJBQZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D71/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material
- B65D71/06—Packaging elements holding or encircling completely or almost completely the bundle of articles, e.g. wrappers
- B65D71/063—Wrappers formed by one or more films or the like, e.g. nets
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
- B65D75/52—Details
- B65D75/54—Cards, coupons or other inserts or accessories
- B65D75/56—Handles or other suspension means
- B65D75/566—Hand holes or suspension apertures
Definitions
- the present invention is a Divisional application of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/610,532, filed Dec. 14, 2006 (Attorney docket D0932-00762).
- the present invention relates to unit packages for insulation products, wherein handles are incorporated into the unit packages.
- Canadian application 2,090,125 A1 discloses an unit package in the form of a sleeve around multiple units of bulky insulation. Extended ends of the plastic sheet are welded together along a side of the sleeve to form a carrying strap.
- the carrying strap extends along the side of the sleeve. Handle openings are punched into the carrying strap.
- the handles are located along the side of the sleeve.
- the sleeve is capable of lying on its side in a position that covers the handles.
- the sleeves lie on their sides, which covers the handles on the sides of the sleeves. Because the unit package is bulky and awkward to move, the handles must be uncovered for safe and convenient use. It would be advantageous for a unit package to have handles that are accessible for grasping when the side of the unit package is covered.
- the invention pertains to a unit package for multiple bags of insulation products, the unit package comprising, a flexible sleeve having opposite ends, and multiple handles, wherein the handles are directly in a corresponding end of the flexible sleeve, the corresponding end projects outwardly beyond the bags of insulation products in the sleeve, and the corresponding end is flexible to bend and move the handles away from the side of the sleeve, such that the handles become accessible for grasping when the side of the sleeve is covered.
- An embodiment of the unit package comprises the handles being spaced apart a distance to deter a worker from gripping more than one handle.
- Another embodiment of the unit package comprises a seamless sleeve.
- Another embodiment of the unit package comprises a longitudinal side seam along a side of the sleeve.
- FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a unit package for insulation products contained in multiple bags.
- FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a portion of a sleeve form wrapper prior to making into a unit package.
- FIG. 1 B is an isometric view of a unit bag made from the sleeve form wrapper of FIG. 1A .
- FIG. 2 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a unit package for insulation products contained in multiple bags.
- FIG. 2A is an isometric view of the unit package disclosed in FIG. 2 , with parts shown in exploded configuration.
- FIG. 2B is a fragmentary enlarged view of a portion of the unit package, as shown in FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 2C is a view similar to FIG. 2B , disclosing an alternative embodiment of the unit package, as shown in FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 3 is a fragmentary isometric view of a tool for cutting a handle opening.
- the present invention relates to a unit package 1 that contains individual units comprised of individual bags 2 of insulation products 3 inside the bags 2 .
- the insulation products 3 are in the form of, individual bags 2 of pre-unit packaged, loose fill insulation, batts or rolls, which bags 2 are cumbersome, due to having a relatively large bulk and weight.
- a unit package 1 may contain 3-8 bags of batts or 3-18 bags of rolls, and has a weight of about 50 pounds to about 250 pounds.
- a unit package 1 contains four bags 2 , as in each of the FIGS. 1 , 2 , 3 and 4 .
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,471,061 discloses a wrapping, in the form of a stretch wrap film that wraps spirally around an organized unit of insulation products to form a unit package.
- a portion of the wrapping film includes a band adjacent to the base of the package, which forms a loose-fitting loop adjacent to one side of the package, and which provides a loose handle for attaching a towing rope.
- the movement required to pull on the loose handle, to make the loop taut can be referred to as being, lost motion. Then, while keeping the loop taut, the towing rope can continue to be pulled to initiate movement of the unit package.
- each unit package typically has a cumbersome size and weight, which may suggest the use of a towing rope to slide or drag the unit package from the front of a transport truck or trailer to the back (open end), especially when no direct access dock is available for unloading with mechanical apparatus, such as, a fork truck.
- the unit packages After reaching a shipment destination, the unit packages are removed from the transport truck or trailer, and are moved to a warehouse where they are, again, arranged in a stack.
- the unit size is generally large and awkward to move, and lacks a manually graspable handle structure that is relatively safe and convenient to use, it is common to move unit packages of insulation by mechanical apparatus, such as a fork truck or similar vehicle, commonly referred to as a clamp truck.
- a fork truck or similar vehicle commonly referred to as a clamp truck.
- Such vehicles tend to damage the product in two ways. First, while sliding the fork underneath the unit package, the fork tends to tear the unit package and the insulation product. Second, the edges of clamps that vertically squeeze the unit package against the fork underneath, tend to penetrate into the insulation product, or over compress the insulation, which breaks the insulation fibers, to the extent that the fibers are incapable of full thickness recovery, by “fluffing up” to assume its R-rated thickness value, after being freed from the confines of a unit package.
- a towing rope could be attached to a unit package, to pull and free the unit package from a stack of tightly packed unit packages. After a single unit package was freed from a stack inside a truck, the unit package was dragged onto a lift gate or tail gate of the truck, or the unit package was allowed to fall to the ground, where the unit package could be engaged and moved by a fork truck or a clamp truck.
- the loose-fitting loop can be manually grasped by a worker, to move the unit package a short distance, or to maneuver the unit package to a slightly changed position.
- the worker must exert lost motion movement to pull the loop taut.
- the worker while the loop is taut, the worker must exert a force on the loop to move the unit package.
- Such an operation is difficult to perform manually.
- the loop is large enough to be manually grasped by one worker, using both hands. The worker using both hands could suffer an injury, especially a back or shoulder injury, due to overexertion, when attempting to move the unit package without seeking assistance from an additional worker.
- Each unit package 1 of the invention has a wrapper 4 made with a plurality of handles 5 , each of which a worker can grasp with one hand.
- the handles 5 are arranged on the unit package 1 , and are each sized to receive substantially only a single hand, which discourages a singular worker from using both hands to grip the same handle 5 , in an attempt to lift or move the unit package 1 .
- the handle 5 is cut into and through the wrapper 4 , by slitting, shearing, punching or die cut, for example.
- a unit package 1 of the invention has at least, first and second handles 5 , thereby comprising multiple handles 5 , which are spaced apart a sufficient distance that makes it awkward and unlikely for a worker to extend his or her arms to grasp two handles 5 .
- the handles 5 are spaced apart, preferably at least 36 inches, and, more preferably, a range of about 36 inches to 48 inches, and even more preferably, a range of about 42 inches to 48 inches. The spaced apart handles 5 thereby discourage a worker from an attempt to move the unit package with both hands, and, further, encourage the worker to seek the assistance of a tow rope or the assistance of an additional worker or other workers to assist in moving or lifting the unit package.
- the handles 5 further reduce the likelihood that mechanical equipment will be called upon to move the unit package and cause damage to the unit package.
- the distance between the spaced apart handles 5 will encourage a worker to seek the assistance of a tow rope, another worker, or other workers, to lift or move the unit package 1 .
- the handles 5 according to the invention differ from a known shopping bag, according to which, two handle holes near the top of the bag are held by a shopper's hand, to facilitate carrying of the bag, and to facilitate holding the top of the bag closed while carrying the bag.
- the handles 5 according to the invention do not facilitate holding the unit package 1 closed while grasping the handles 5 .
- a unit package 1 of the invention has a plurality of handles 5 for grasping by multiple workers, to drag and move the unit package 1 , and even, perhaps, to lift the unit package 1 .
- Typical insulation products 3 comprise, loose blown insulation product, standard duct wrap (SDW), and Residential and Commercial batts and/or rolls, which are preferably formed from organic fibers, such as, polymeric fibers, alternatively, inorganic fibers, such as, rotary spun glass fibers, textile fibers, stonewool, also known as, rockwool, or a combination thereof.
- organic fibers such as, polymeric fibers
- inorganic fibers such as, rotary spun glass fibers, textile fibers, stonewool, also known as, rockwool, or a combination thereof.
- a loose blown insulation product 3 refers to loose pieces of insulation which are installed by being dispensed from a hose, having a diameter typically in the range of 2 inches to 4 inches, and using compressed air to transport the insulation material through the hose, and to impel the insulation into hollow cavities in buildings.
- the loose blown insulation product 3 is compacted, and is packaged in bags 2 for shipment and storage.
- Standard duct wrap (SDW) insulation product 3 further can comprise one or more rolls of SDW that is precut to have a predetermined width.
- the SDW is rolled up into a compact, generally cylindrical roll, which is then pre-unit packaged in a loose fitting tubular bag 2 , and tied with a plastic twist tie.
- the bag 2 is typically manufactured with printed markings 6 .
- Insulation products 3 known as Residential Batts and/or rolls are standard lengths of a mat of insulation material.
- the mat is manufactured in continuous lengths, and has standard widths, typically in the single width range of about 11 inches to about 24 inches.
- the fibers are often bound together with a thermoplastic or heat cured binder, such as, nylon and known resinous phenolic materials, for example, phenol formaldehyde resins or phenol urea formaldehyde (PUFA), melamine formaldehyde.
- PUFA phenol formaldehyde
- Acrylic, polyester, nylon, urethane and furan binder may also be used in some applications.
- a vapor retarding facing in the form of a flexible film of water vapor retarding material, can be applied on the continuous length insulation.
- the facing comprises a kraft paper layer, which may be coated with a bituminous adhesive material, such as, asphalt, or, a water based adhesive, such as, acrylic or polyvinyl acetate, or a hot-melt adhesive.
- a bituminous adhesive material such as, asphalt, or, a water based adhesive, such as, acrylic or polyvinyl acetate, or a hot-melt adhesive.
- the continuous length insulation mat can be manufactured, either with the facing, or without the facing.
- the facing can be repeatedly marked with information, which can describe an R-Value of the insulation product, as well as, a brand name and other useful information.
- the continuous insulation mat is divided into standard lengths corresponding to batts or rolls.
- Batts are insulation pieces, preferably, about 42 inches to about 105 inches in standard lengths. Relatively long batts are doubled back and folded to fit in shorter bags 2 .
- Residential and Commercial batts are essentially the same products, with perhaps some minor physical characteristic product and packaging variations.
- Residential rolls are insulation pieces, having standard single widths, from about 11 inches to about 25 inches, and which have standard lengths, preferably, about 18 feet to about 71 feet, and further, which are rolled up to form spiral rolls of such standard lengths.
- the diameter D of a roll of insulation is typically between 1.5 feet and 3 feet, more typically about 20 inches to 30 inches, with a width W typically about 23 inches.
- Commercial rolls are insulation pieces, having standard single widths, from about 30 inches to about 96 inches, and which have standard lengths, preferably about 50 feet to about 200 feet, and further, which are rolled up to form spiral rolls.
- the diameter D of a commercial roll is typically between 1.5 feet and 2.5 feet, more typically, about 20 inches to about 24 inches, with a width typically about 48 inches.
- Such rolls may be compacted by applying a predetermined compression while being tightly rolled up and prepackaged in a loose fitting plastic bag 2 , such that the bag 2 and its contents undergo further compaction by packaging the bag in a unit package 1 .
- Such rolls may be rolled up first, and then compacted while being prepackaged in heavy duty bags 2 .
- the heavy duty bags 2 are typically grouped together, generally in units of four, using stretch wrap film to hold the group together. A unit of four heavy duty bags 2 can be packaged in a unit package 1 according to the invention.
- Insulation material intended for thermally insulating buildings typically has a low glass fiber density, such as from about 0.4 to 1.5 pounds per cubic foot (6.4 ⁇ kg/m 3 to 24 ⁇ kg/m 3 ), which has a prescribed R-value thickness at such fiber density.
- Batts and rolls of such insulation are compressed and compacted to expel air. While in a compressed or compacted state, the batts and rolls are unit packaged as the insulation products 3 in corresponding bags 2 .
- the length of a typical bag 2 is about 52 inches, which contains batts or rolls of insulation products 3 that have been compacted in thickness, and/or folded or rolled, so as to fit in a bag 2 of such length.
- a single bag 2 may contain one roll, or multiple batts stacked one on another.
- the bag 3 and other packaging materials Prior to installation of the insulation in a building, the bag 3 and other packaging materials are removed, which allows the compacted fibers of the insulation products 3 to expand or “fluff up” to their prescribed R-value rated thickness
- a sleeve form wrapper 4 is adapted to contain one or a plurality of bags 2 , in turn, containing one or more insulation products 3 .
- the bags 2 are placed side to side, and/or in a stack one on another, to form at least one row of bags 2 .
- shorter bags 2 can be placed in multiple rows of bags 2 , one row behind another, such that the bags 2 in one row are end to end with the bags in another row.
- the bottoms of the bags 2 can be either open or closed, and can face perpendicular to the row thereof.
- a wrapper 4 is tightly wrapped around the bags 2 to comprise a flexible sleeve form, unit package 1 .
- the wrapper 4 comprises a flexible film of polymeric material.
- FIGS. 1-3 disclose the insulation products 3 as being unit packaged in four compacted bags 2 in a wrapper 4 .
- three to eight bags 2 containing compacted batts, rolls or loose insulation products 3 can be combined in a single wrapper 4 .
- 3-18 bags 2 containing compacted rolls can be combined in a single wrapper 4 .
- FIGS. 1 and 1A disclose a wrapper 4 in the form of a seamless flexible sleeve, wherein the sleeve is formed by extruding fluent hot polymeric material in a continuous sleeve configuration, and cooling the hot polymeric material to ambient temperature to a solidified state.
- the material is extruded with a rough surface in the sleeve interior, rather than a smooth surface, and with a coefficient of sliding friction to prevent sliding of the bags 2 out from the sleeve.
- the wrapper 4 comprises a flexible film made by yarns or strands that are either woven, or non-woven and joined to one another to form a flexible film.
- the strands are joined to one another by being interlaced, or by a water-resistant binder or by being partially melted by heat and solvent, followed by fusing to one another by solidification after being partially melted.
- the roughness of the film surface topography contributes to an elevated coefficient of friction.
- a woven film has a roughness of surface topography provided by having a surface of interlaced strands of such a woven film.
- An extruded film is formed with a rough surface topography by passing through an extrusion die that that forms the polymeric material into a film or sheet.
- the film surface is roughened while the surface remains heated to at least at its heat deflection temperature, such that the rough surface topography is formed on the film by brushing the surface or by rolling the surface with a rough surface roller.
- the continuous sleeve configuration is folded along multiple folds 8 , which allows the sleeve configuration to collapse and fold flat, followed by rolling up the flat film to provide a roll of continuous sleeve form material. Later, the continuous sleeve form material is unrolled, cut to a desired length, and unfolded to provide a wrapper 4 of desired length, in the form of a sleeve having two open ends.
- the sleeve is assembled over the bags 2 to form a unit package 1 , which tightly envelops the bags 2 , while the bags 2 , and the insulation products 3 in the bags 2 , are compressed to a compacted, lesser volume than before being enveloped.
- the unit package 1 made from the wrapper 4 of FIG. 1A comprises an open ended sleeve that retains the bags 2 therein by compaction and friction.
- the unit package 1 made by the wrapper 4 of FIG. 1A comprises a unit bag having one closed end, FIG. 1B . The closed end is made by gathering together portions of an overhang portion 9 of the wrapper 4 , and joining the gathered portions of the overhang portion 9 , for example, by heat sealing or by the use of an adhesive.
- FIG. 2 discloses another embodiment of a wrapper 4 in the form of a flexible sleeve.
- the wrapper 4 is constructed with two sheets 4 a and 4 b of a flexible film, joined together and forming a sleeve, which tightly envelops the bags 2 , while the bags 2 , and the insulation products 3 in the bags 2 , are compressed and held in compression to assume a compacted, lesser volume than before being enveloped.
- the two sheets 4 a and 4 b meet and partially overlap each other lengthwise along overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d .
- the overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d are joined together to form a closed longitudinal side seam on each opposite side of the wrapper 4 and extending to opposite ends 7 of the sleeve form wrapper 4 , for example, by, an adhesive bond, ultrasonic weld, a heat seal, or a sewn side seam.
- the seams extend through the ends 7 of the sleeves.
- the polymer material of the wrapper 4 determines its chemical compatibility with an adhesive, including, but not limited to, epoxy, urethane, cyanoacrylate, anaerobic, hot melt and silicone. According to an exemplary process step, the adhesive is applied to overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d to form a closed side seam.
- an adhesive including, but not limited to, epoxy, urethane, cyanoacrylate, anaerobic, hot melt and silicone.
- the polymer material of the wrapper 4 is a self-fusing polymer material, such as, polyethylene.
- a heat seal or ultrasonic bond is formed, according to exemplary process steps, for example, by applying heat or ultrasonic energy, while holding the overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d against each other under pressure, causing the self-fusing polymer material to melt and become fusible.
- the melted polymer material fuses the two overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d against each other.
- the overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d become permanently fused together to form a closed side seam.
- a hand held, heated implement for example, a hot iron shaped in a bar or rod, not shown, applies heat and pressure on the overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d to melt and fuse the polymer material of the overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d .
- a commercially available machine the MultipackTM machine, supplied by SEELEN A/S, Denmark, can be adapted to form the closed side seam.
- a commercially available ultrasonic generator is used to apply ultrasonic energy on the overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d to melt and fuse the polymer material thereof.
- FIG. 2 discloses that the overlapping film sections 4 c and 4 d of the sleeve extend lengthwise along the side of the sleeve.
- FIG. 2B discloses the overlapping film section 4 c can be sufficiently large and wide to form a projecting flange 4 e extending lengthwise along the side of the sleeve.
- Each flange 4 e is formed by an edge section 4 c , for example, of one of the sheets 4 a and 4 b , which extends outwardly beyond the film sections 4 a and 4 b that are joined together to form a closed side seam.
- FIG. 2C discloses a respective alternative embodiment wherein, a second flange 4 f extends unitary with the film section 4 d .
- the second flange 4 f extends beside, and coextensively with the flange 4 e.
- the wrapper 4 in the form of a sleeve, as disclosed by FIGS. 1 and 2 has either one or two open ends 7 , and further, comprises a unit package 1 containing the bags 2 .
- the bag surfaces Preferably, have a corresponding coefficient of friction in the range of about 0.35 to about 0.5, which avoids slipping of the bags 2 over one another within the unit package 1 , and which avoids slipping of the bags 2 out of the open end or two open ends 7 of the sleeve.
- the film material of the unit package 1 has a similar coefficient of friction.
- FIG. 1B discloses an opposite end 7 of the sleeve, which is closed to form a unit bag.
- the opposite end 7 of the sleeve is open to provide a sleeve with two open ends 7 as disclosed by FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- the bottoms of the bags 2 are exposed at an open end 7 of the wrapper 4 in the form of a sleeve.
- the markings 6 on the bottoms of the bags 2 are visible at the open end 7 of the sleeve or the open end of the unit bag of FIG. 1B to identify the insulation products 3 in the unit package 1 .
- the bags 2 are stacked in the unit package 1 with the bottoms facing in the same direction toward the one open end 7 .
- the markings 6 on bottoms of the bags 2 are visible to assist in identifying the insulation products 3 .
- the bags 2 are visible through a preferred transparent polymer film material of the unit package 1 . Markings 6 on the bags, when present, are also visible through the transparent film material covering the markings 6 .
- a unit package 1 in the form of, a sleeve or a unit bag having at least one open end 7 comprising at least one overhang portion 9 projecting outwardly beyond the bags 2 containing the insulation product 3 .
- an overhang 9 is at each open end 7 the sleeve, FIGS. 1 and 2 and at the open end of the unit bag, FIG. 1B .
- a plurality of handles 5 are cut into one or more overhang portions 9 at the open ends 7 , and the handles 5 are spaced apart a distance that makes it awkward for a single worker to grip more than one handle, while attempting to lift or move the package 1 .
- the handles 5 are preferably spaced apart at least 36 inches, and, more preferably, a range of about 36 inches to 48 inches, and even more preferably, a range of about 42 inches to 48 inches.
- the spaced apart handles 5 thereby discourage a worker from an attempt to move the package 1 with both hands, and, further, encourage the worker to seek the assistance of a tow rope or the assistance of an additional worker or other workers to assist in moving or lifting the package 1 .
- the handles 5 are present to reduce the likelihood that mechanical equipment will be called upon to move the package 1 and cause damage to the package.
- the wrapper 4 has spaced apart handles 5 cut into the wrapper 4 to form respective handle openings.
- the wrapper 4 is cut by performing a process including, but not limited to, slitting, punching, slicing, perforating and tearing. Slitting is preferred.
- at least one handle 5 is cut by slitting through at least one film thickness of an overhang portion 9 to form a corresponding handle opening in the form of a slit. More specifically, FIG. 2 discloses two overhang portions 5 . Two spaced apart handles 5 are cut into each overhang portion 9 .
- the wrapper 4 is preferably cut by slitting to provide an elongated slit, for the handle opening in an arc shape, or arcuate shape, at opposite ends of an oblong section, which avoids potential tearing of the film due to excessive stress concentration, when the handle 5 is grasped and pulled.
- a handle 5 is formed by cutting an elongated C-shaped slit having a rounded shape without sharp intersecting corners that would concentrate stress when the handle 5 is being pulled.
- the handle 5 can be formed by cutting an elongated straight slit without the rounded shape.
- the orientation of the elongated slit can vary. For example, each of FIGS. 1 and 2 discloses a vertically oriented slit for each handle 5 .
- the handle 5 is cut through a single thickness layer of the wrapper 4 .
- the wrapper 4 or sleeve is formed of two or more layers one inside another.
- the handle 5 is cut through each of the multiple layers, with such layers surrounding the opening of the handle 5 to provide strength.
- one of the multiple layers surrounding the opening of the handle 5 comprises a reinforcement layer, such as, by laminating or adhering a fiberglass reinforcing tape or by laminating of adhering a layer of melt bonded material, such as, a 5-10 mil thickness layer of polyethylene film.
- the reinforcement layer prevents material necking, caused by stretching of the material.
- FIG. 3 discloses a cutting die 12 having a thin, elongated, C-shaped, punch blade 13 that can form the handle opening 5 with the desired rounded shape without sharp intersecting corners.
- the ends 13 a and 13 b of the C-shaped, punch blade curl, and point away from each other, which stress relieves the ends of the slit formed by the ends 13 a and 13 b , to avoid a stress concentration that would tend to tear the wrapper 4 .
- FIG. 1A discloses handles 5 that preferably, are manufactured by being cut into a precursor of material from which the wrapper 4 is made. Alternatively, the wrapper 4 can be cut by the cutting die 12 after the wrapper 4 has been made and wrapped over the bags 2 . As shown in FIG. 3B , the handle opening 5 is cut through two layers of the wrapper 4 .
- each handle 5 is sized with a width, preferably about 1.5 inches, and height, preferably about 5 inches, to receive the fingers on a single hand of a worker who manually grasps the handle 5 .
- a tow rope (not shown) can be attached to the handle 5 , for example, by the tow rope being looped through the handle opening and tied.
- the tow rope comprises a disconnect coupling member (not shown) that can be attached to the handle 5 .
- each handle 5 is sized with a width and height that is less than the space for receiving two hands of the worker who can use but one hand to grasp the handle 5 . By discouraging the use of two hands, the worker will resort to use of the tow rope, and thereby will avert overexertion and worker injury.
- an embodiment of the invention has a plurality of two or more handles 5 cut into the wrapper 4 .
- the handles 5 are in one or more overhang portions 9 .
- the handles 5 are spaced apart by a span that is more lengthy than can be reached by two outstretched hands of a worker.
- the handles 5 are spaced apart, preferably, a distance greater than the width between shoulders of a worker, and preferably, a distance of at least about 36 inches, and a range preferably about 36 inches to about 48 inches, and more preferably, about 42 inches to about 48 inches, which will require that a worker spread apart his or her arms to span the distance awkwardly, in an attempt to grasp two handles 5 .
- the awkwardness required to grip two handles 5 will discourage a single worker from attempting to use two hands for lifting or moving the unit package 1 .
- the worker using one hand will be limited in the amount of worker exertion that can be expended.
- the worker will resort to seek the assistance of a tow rope, or will be required to seek the assistance of an additional worker or workers who can grasp respective handles and lift or move the unit package 1 .
- the invention will avert overexertion and worker injury.
- the wrapper 4 has a unitary flap 14 for each layer of the wrapper 14 that is cut to make a handle 5 .
- Each flap 14 extends along an uncut edge of each opening defining a corresponding handle 5 .
- Each flap 14 results from cutting the wrapper 4 with the C-shaped, punch blade 13 .
- the punch blade 13 punches through each thickness of the wrapper 4 , and produces a C-shaped cut. Further, the C-shaped, punch blade 13 produces an uncut flap 14 that remains attached along an uncut edge of the C-shaped cut.
- Each flap 14 can be pushed out of the thickness plane of the cut wrapper 4 , for example, when a worker inserts the fingers on one hand through the opening of the handle 5 .
- each flap 14 is capable of being doubled back along the uncut edge of the handle 5 to form a doubled back section of the wrapper 4 that resists a pulling force applied to the handle 5 by the worker's hand. Further, each flap 14 is capable of being folded where it is doubled back, although a fold is not required. Doubling back or folding the wrapper material in the direction of the applied force increases the strength of the handle 5 to resist tearing of the wrapper 4 .
- Each sleeve is capable of lying on its side in a position that covers the handles 5 . Moreover, when a number of sleeves are stacked together for storage in a truck or in a warehouse, the sleeves lie on their sides, which covers the handles 5 . Because the unit package 1 is bulky and awkward to move, the handles 5 must be uncovered for safe and convenient use. According to embodiments of the invention, the ends 7 of the sleeve comprising the overhang portions 9 extend beyond the bags 3 that are encircled by the sleeve.
- the overhang portions 9 are flexible to bend away from the side of the sleeve to move the handles 5 in the overhang portions 9 away from the side of the sleeve and accessible for grasping when the side of the sleeve is covered, either by the sleeve lying on its side or by a number of sleeves stacked together.
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Abstract
The invention pertains to a method of making a unit package. The unit package includes, a flexible sleeve having opposite ends, and multiple handles, wherein the handles are directly in a corresponding end of the flexible sleeve, the corresponding end projects outwardly beyond the bags of insulation products in the sleeve, and the corresponding end is flexible to bend and move the handles away from the side of the sleeve, such that the handles are accessible for grasping when the side of the sleeve is covered.
Description
- The present invention is a Divisional application of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/610,532, filed Dec. 14, 2006 (Attorney docket D0932-00762).
- The present invention relates to unit packages for insulation products, wherein handles are incorporated into the unit packages.
- Canadian application 2,090,125 A1 discloses an unit package in the form of a sleeve around multiple units of bulky insulation. Extended ends of the plastic sheet are welded together along a side of the sleeve to form a carrying strap. The carrying strap extends along the side of the sleeve. Handle openings are punched into the carrying strap. The handles are located along the side of the sleeve. The sleeve is capable of lying on its side in a position that covers the handles. Moreover, when a number of sleeves are stacked together for storage in a truck or in a warehouse, the sleeves lie on their sides, which covers the handles on the sides of the sleeves. Because the unit package is bulky and awkward to move, the handles must be uncovered for safe and convenient use. It would be advantageous for a unit package to have handles that are accessible for grasping when the side of the unit package is covered.
- The invention pertains to a unit package for multiple bags of insulation products, the unit package comprising, a flexible sleeve having opposite ends, and multiple handles, wherein the handles are directly in a corresponding end of the flexible sleeve, the corresponding end projects outwardly beyond the bags of insulation products in the sleeve, and the corresponding end is flexible to bend and move the handles away from the side of the sleeve, such that the handles become accessible for grasping when the side of the sleeve is covered.
- An embodiment of the unit package comprises the handles being spaced apart a distance to deter a worker from gripping more than one handle.
- Another embodiment of the unit package comprises a seamless sleeve.
- Another embodiment of the unit package comprises a longitudinal side seam along a side of the sleeve.
- The above features, and other features of embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, by way of example, taken in conjunction with accompanying drawings.
- The accompanying drawings disclose by way of example, preferred embodiments of the invention, and other information pertinent to a disclosure of the invention, in which;
-
FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a unit package for insulation products contained in multiple bags. -
FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a portion of a sleeve form wrapper prior to making into a unit package. -
FIG. 1 B is an isometric view of a unit bag made from the sleeve form wrapper ofFIG. 1A . -
FIG. 2 is an isometric view of another embodiment of a unit package for insulation products contained in multiple bags. -
FIG. 2A is an isometric view of the unit package disclosed inFIG. 2 , with parts shown in exploded configuration. -
FIG. 2B is a fragmentary enlarged view of a portion of the unit package, as shown inFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 2C is a view similar toFIG. 2B , disclosing an alternative embodiment of the unit package, as shown inFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 3 is a fragmentary isometric view of a tool for cutting a handle opening. - As disclosed by
FIG. 1 , the present invention relates to aunit package 1 that contains individual units comprised ofindividual bags 2 ofinsulation products 3 inside thebags 2. Theinsulation products 3 are in the form of,individual bags 2 of pre-unit packaged, loose fill insulation, batts or rolls, whichbags 2 are cumbersome, due to having a relatively large bulk and weight. Preferably, aunit package 1 may contain 3-8 bags of batts or 3-18 bags of rolls, and has a weight of about 50 pounds to about 250 pounds. Typically, aunit package 1 contains fourbags 2, as in each of theFIGS. 1 , 2, 3 and 4. - U.S. Pat. No. 6,471,061 discloses a wrapping, in the form of a stretch wrap film that wraps spirally around an organized unit of insulation products to form a unit package. A portion of the wrapping film includes a band adjacent to the base of the package, which forms a loose-fitting loop adjacent to one side of the package, and which provides a loose handle for attaching a towing rope. The movement required to pull on the loose handle, to make the loop taut, can be referred to as being, lost motion. Then, while keeping the loop taut, the towing rope can continue to be pulled to initiate movement of the unit package.
- Typically, many unit packages are densely packed inside a transport truck or trailer for shipment. Further, each unit package has a cumbersome size and weight, which may suggest the use of a towing rope to slide or drag the unit package from the front of a transport truck or trailer to the back (open end), especially when no direct access dock is available for unloading with mechanical apparatus, such as, a fork truck. After reaching a shipment destination, the unit packages are removed from the transport truck or trailer, and are moved to a warehouse where they are, again, arranged in a stack.
- Because the unit size is generally large and awkward to move, and lacks a manually graspable handle structure that is relatively safe and convenient to use, it is common to move unit packages of insulation by mechanical apparatus, such as a fork truck or similar vehicle, commonly referred to as a clamp truck. Such vehicles tend to damage the product in two ways. First, while sliding the fork underneath the unit package, the fork tends to tear the unit package and the insulation product. Second, the edges of clamps that vertically squeeze the unit package against the fork underneath, tend to penetrate into the insulation product, or over compress the insulation, which breaks the insulation fibers, to the extent that the fibers are incapable of full thickness recovery, by “fluffing up” to assume its R-rated thickness value, after being freed from the confines of a unit package.
- Prior to the invention, a towing rope could be attached to a unit package, to pull and free the unit package from a stack of tightly packed unit packages. After a single unit package was freed from a stack inside a truck, the unit package was dragged onto a lift gate or tail gate of the truck, or the unit package was allowed to fall to the ground, where the unit package could be engaged and moved by a fork truck or a clamp truck.
- The loose-fitting loop can be manually grasped by a worker, to move the unit package a short distance, or to maneuver the unit package to a slightly changed position. First, the worker must exert lost motion movement to pull the loop taut. Then, while the loop is taut, the worker must exert a force on the loop to move the unit package. Such an operation is difficult to perform manually. Further, the loop is large enough to be manually grasped by one worker, using both hands. The worker using both hands could suffer an injury, especially a back or shoulder injury, due to overexertion, when attempting to move the unit package without seeking assistance from an additional worker.
- It would be desirable to provide a unit package for insulation products with handles that eliminate the lost motion associated with a loose-fitting loop on the unit package. Further, it would be desirable to provide handles that discourage an attempt to move a unit package by one worker without assistance from another worker. Further still, it would be desirable to provide a unit package for insulation products, which incorporates a relatively safe to use, manually grasped handle structure, to avoid handling by mechanized equipment and consequent damage to the unit package or to the insulation product.
- Each
unit package 1 of the invention has awrapper 4 made with a plurality ofhandles 5, each of which a worker can grasp with one hand. Thehandles 5 are arranged on theunit package 1, and are each sized to receive substantially only a single hand, which discourages a singular worker from using both hands to grip thesame handle 5, in an attempt to lift or move theunit package 1. According to an embodiment of the invention, thehandle 5 is cut into and through thewrapper 4, by slitting, shearing, punching or die cut, for example. - According to a further embodiment of the invention, a
unit package 1 of the invention has at least, first andsecond handles 5, thereby comprisingmultiple handles 5, which are spaced apart a sufficient distance that makes it awkward and unlikely for a worker to extend his or her arms to grasp twohandles 5. In a preferred embodiment, thehandles 5 are spaced apart, preferably at least 36 inches, and, more preferably, a range of about 36 inches to 48 inches, and even more preferably, a range of about 42 inches to 48 inches. The spaced apart handles 5 thereby discourage a worker from an attempt to move the unit package with both hands, and, further, encourage the worker to seek the assistance of a tow rope or the assistance of an additional worker or other workers to assist in moving or lifting the unit package. Thehandles 5 further reduce the likelihood that mechanical equipment will be called upon to move the unit package and cause damage to the unit package. The distance between the spaced apart handles 5 will encourage a worker to seek the assistance of a tow rope, another worker, or other workers, to lift or move theunit package 1. Thehandles 5 according to the invention differ from a known shopping bag, according to which, two handle holes near the top of the bag are held by a shopper's hand, to facilitate carrying of the bag, and to facilitate holding the top of the bag closed while carrying the bag. Thehandles 5 according to the invention do not facilitate holding theunit package 1 closed while grasping thehandles 5. - Further, preferably, a
unit package 1 of the invention has a plurality ofhandles 5 for grasping by multiple workers, to drag and move theunit package 1, and even, perhaps, to lift theunit package 1. -
Typical insulation products 3 comprise, loose blown insulation product, standard duct wrap (SDW), and Residential and Commercial batts and/or rolls, which are preferably formed from organic fibers, such as, polymeric fibers, alternatively, inorganic fibers, such as, rotary spun glass fibers, textile fibers, stonewool, also known as, rockwool, or a combination thereof. - A loose blown
insulation product 3 refers to loose pieces of insulation which are installed by being dispensed from a hose, having a diameter typically in the range of 2 inches to 4 inches, and using compressed air to transport the insulation material through the hose, and to impel the insulation into hollow cavities in buildings. The looseblown insulation product 3 is compacted, and is packaged inbags 2 for shipment and storage. - Standard duct wrap (SDW)
insulation product 3 further can comprise one or more rolls of SDW that is precut to have a predetermined width. The SDW is rolled up into a compact, generally cylindrical roll, which is then pre-unit packaged in a loose fittingtubular bag 2, and tied with a plastic twist tie. Thebag 2 is typically manufactured with printedmarkings 6. -
Insulation products 3 known as Residential Batts and/or rolls are standard lengths of a mat of insulation material. First, the mat is manufactured in continuous lengths, and has standard widths, typically in the single width range of about 11 inches to about 24 inches. The fibers are often bound together with a thermoplastic or heat cured binder, such as, nylon and known resinous phenolic materials, for example, phenol formaldehyde resins or phenol urea formaldehyde (PUFA), melamine formaldehyde. Acrylic, polyester, nylon, urethane and furan binder may also be used in some applications. A vapor retarding facing, in the form of a flexible film of water vapor retarding material, can be applied on the continuous length insulation. In one embodiment, the facing comprises a kraft paper layer, which may be coated with a bituminous adhesive material, such as, asphalt, or, a water based adhesive, such as, acrylic or polyvinyl acetate, or a hot-melt adhesive. The continuous length insulation mat can be manufactured, either with the facing, or without the facing. The facing can be repeatedly marked with information, which can describe an R-Value of the insulation product, as well as, a brand name and other useful information. - The continuous insulation mat is divided into standard lengths corresponding to batts or rolls. Batts are insulation pieces, preferably, about 42 inches to about 105 inches in standard lengths. Relatively long batts are doubled back and folded to fit in
shorter bags 2. Residential and Commercial batts are essentially the same products, with perhaps some minor physical characteristic product and packaging variations. - Residential rolls are insulation pieces, having standard single widths, from about 11 inches to about 25 inches, and which have standard lengths, preferably, about 18 feet to about 71 feet, and further, which are rolled up to form spiral rolls of such standard lengths. The diameter D of a roll of insulation is typically between 1.5 feet and 3 feet, more typically about 20 inches to 30 inches, with a width W typically about 23 inches. Commercial rolls are insulation pieces, having standard single widths, from about 30 inches to about 96 inches, and which have standard lengths, preferably about 50 feet to about 200 feet, and further, which are rolled up to form spiral rolls. The diameter D of a commercial roll is typically between 1.5 feet and 2.5 feet, more typically, about 20 inches to about 24 inches, with a width typically about 48 inches. Such rolls may be compacted by applying a predetermined compression while being tightly rolled up and prepackaged in a loose fitting
plastic bag 2, such that thebag 2 and its contents undergo further compaction by packaging the bag in aunit package 1. Alternatively, such rolls may be rolled up first, and then compacted while being prepackaged inheavy duty bags 2. Theheavy duty bags 2 are typically grouped together, generally in units of four, using stretch wrap film to hold the group together. A unit of fourheavy duty bags 2 can be packaged in aunit package 1 according to the invention. - Insulation material intended for thermally insulating buildings typically has a low glass fiber density, such as from about 0.4 to 1.5 pounds per cubic foot (6.4×kg/m3 to 24×kg/m3), which has a prescribed R-value thickness at such fiber density. Batts and rolls of such insulation are compressed and compacted to expel air. While in a compressed or compacted state, the batts and rolls are unit packaged as the
insulation products 3 in correspondingbags 2. For example, the length of atypical bag 2 is about 52 inches, which contains batts or rolls ofinsulation products 3 that have been compacted in thickness, and/or folded or rolled, so as to fit in abag 2 of such length. Asingle bag 2 may contain one roll, or multiple batts stacked one on another. Prior to installation of the insulation in a building, thebag 3 and other packaging materials are removed, which allows the compacted fibers of theinsulation products 3 to expand or “fluff up” to their prescribed R-value rated thickness. - According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, a
sleeve form wrapper 4 is adapted to contain one or a plurality ofbags 2, in turn, containing one ormore insulation products 3. In thewrapper 4, thebags 2 are placed side to side, and/or in a stack one on another, to form at least one row ofbags 2. Alternatively,shorter bags 2 can be placed in multiple rows ofbags 2, one row behind another, such that thebags 2 in one row are end to end with the bags in another row. The bottoms of thebags 2 can be either open or closed, and can face perpendicular to the row thereof. - A
wrapper 4 is tightly wrapped around thebags 2 to comprise a flexible sleeve form,unit package 1. Thewrapper 4 comprises a flexible film of polymeric material. For example,FIGS. 1-3 disclose theinsulation products 3 as being unit packaged in fourcompacted bags 2 in awrapper 4. Further, preferably, three to eightbags 2 containing compacted batts, rolls orloose insulation products 3 can be combined in asingle wrapper 4. Further, preferably, 3-18bags 2 containing compacted rolls can be combined in asingle wrapper 4. -
FIGS. 1 and 1A disclose awrapper 4 in the form of a seamless flexible sleeve, wherein the sleeve is formed by extruding fluent hot polymeric material in a continuous sleeve configuration, and cooling the hot polymeric material to ambient temperature to a solidified state. Preferably, the material is extruded with a rough surface in the sleeve interior, rather than a smooth surface, and with a coefficient of sliding friction to prevent sliding of thebags 2 out from the sleeve. Alternatively, thewrapper 4 comprises a flexible film made by yarns or strands that are either woven, or non-woven and joined to one another to form a flexible film. The strands are joined to one another by being interlaced, or by a water-resistant binder or by being partially melted by heat and solvent, followed by fusing to one another by solidification after being partially melted. The roughness of the film surface topography contributes to an elevated coefficient of friction. Especially a woven film has a roughness of surface topography provided by having a surface of interlaced strands of such a woven film. An extruded film is formed with a rough surface topography by passing through an extrusion die that that forms the polymeric material into a film or sheet. Alternatively, after extrusion the film surface is roughened while the surface remains heated to at least at its heat deflection temperature, such that the rough surface topography is formed on the film by brushing the surface or by rolling the surface with a rough surface roller. Further, for example, the continuous sleeve configuration is folded alongmultiple folds 8, which allows the sleeve configuration to collapse and fold flat, followed by rolling up the flat film to provide a roll of continuous sleeve form material. Later, the continuous sleeve form material is unrolled, cut to a desired length, and unfolded to provide awrapper 4 of desired length, in the form of a sleeve having two open ends. - The sleeve is assembled over the
bags 2 to form aunit package 1, which tightly envelops thebags 2, while thebags 2, and theinsulation products 3 in thebags 2, are compressed to a compacted, lesser volume than before being enveloped. In one preferred embodiment, disclosed inFIG. 1 , theunit package 1 made from thewrapper 4 ofFIG. 1A , comprises an open ended sleeve that retains thebags 2 therein by compaction and friction. In another preferred embodiment, disclosed byFIG. 1B , theunit package 1 made by thewrapper 4 ofFIG. 1A , comprises a unit bag having one closed end,FIG. 1B . The closed end is made by gathering together portions of anoverhang portion 9 of thewrapper 4, and joining the gathered portions of theoverhang portion 9, for example, by heat sealing or by the use of an adhesive. -
FIG. 2 discloses another embodiment of awrapper 4 in the form of a flexible sleeve. As disclosed inFIG. 2A thewrapper 4 is constructed with twosheets bags 2, while thebags 2, and theinsulation products 3 in thebags 2, are compressed and held in compression to assume a compacted, lesser volume than before being enveloped. - Further, as disclosed by
FIGS. 2B and 2C , the twosheets film sections film sections wrapper 4 and extending toopposite ends 7 of thesleeve form wrapper 4, for example, by, an adhesive bond, ultrasonic weld, a heat seal, or a sewn side seam. The seams extend through theends 7 of the sleeves. - The polymer material of the
wrapper 4 determines its chemical compatibility with an adhesive, including, but not limited to, epoxy, urethane, cyanoacrylate, anaerobic, hot melt and silicone. According to an exemplary process step, the adhesive is applied to overlappingfilm sections - According to a further embodiment of the invention, preferably, the polymer material of the
wrapper 4 is a self-fusing polymer material, such as, polyethylene. A heat seal or ultrasonic bond is formed, according to exemplary process steps, for example, by applying heat or ultrasonic energy, while holding the overlappingfilm sections film sections film sections - A hand held, heated implement, for example, a hot iron shaped in a bar or rod, not shown, applies heat and pressure on the overlapping
film sections film sections film sections -
FIG. 2 discloses that the overlappingfilm sections FIG. 2B discloses the overlappingfilm section 4 c can be sufficiently large and wide to form a projectingflange 4 e extending lengthwise along the side of the sleeve. Eachflange 4 e is formed by anedge section 4 c, for example, of one of thesheets film sections - Further,
FIG. 2C discloses a respective alternative embodiment wherein, asecond flange 4 f extends unitary with thefilm section 4 d. Thesecond flange 4 f extends beside, and coextensively with theflange 4 e. - The
wrapper 4 in the form of a sleeve, as disclosed byFIGS. 1 and 2 , has either one or twoopen ends 7, and further, comprises aunit package 1 containing thebags 2. Preferably, the bag surfaces, have a corresponding coefficient of friction in the range of about 0.35 to about 0.5, which avoids slipping of thebags 2 over one another within theunit package 1, and which avoids slipping of thebags 2 out of the open end or twoopen ends 7 of the sleeve. The film material of theunit package 1 has a similar coefficient of friction. -
FIG. 1B discloses anopposite end 7 of the sleeve, which is closed to form a unit bag. In an alternative embodiment theopposite end 7 of the sleeve is open to provide a sleeve with twoopen ends 7 as disclosed byFIGS. 1 and 2 . InFIGS. 1 and 2 , the bottoms of thebags 2 are exposed at anopen end 7 of thewrapper 4 in the form of a sleeve. Further, themarkings 6 on the bottoms of thebags 2 are visible at theopen end 7 of the sleeve or the open end of the unit bag ofFIG. 1B to identify theinsulation products 3 in theunit package 1. Preferably, thebags 2 are stacked in theunit package 1 with the bottoms facing in the same direction toward the oneopen end 7. When theunit package 1 is stacked with othersuch unit packages 1 in a truck or in a warehouse, themarkings 6 on bottoms of thebags 2 are visible to assist in identifying theinsulation products 3. - The
bags 2 are visible through a preferred transparent polymer film material of theunit package 1.Markings 6 on the bags, when present, are also visible through the transparent film material covering themarkings 6. - Preferably, a
unit package 1 in the form of, a sleeve or a unit bag having at least oneopen end 7 comprising at least oneoverhang portion 9 projecting outwardly beyond thebags 2 containing theinsulation product 3. According to a preferred embodiment, anoverhang 9 is at eachopen end 7 the sleeve,FIGS. 1 and 2 and at the open end of the unit bag,FIG. 1B . - According to an embodiment of the invention, a plurality of
handles 5 are cut into one ormore overhang portions 9 at the open ends 7, and thehandles 5 are spaced apart a distance that makes it awkward for a single worker to grip more than one handle, while attempting to lift or move thepackage 1. For example, according to and embodiment of the invention, when a pair ofhandles 5 is employed, they are preferably spaced apart at least 36 inches, and, more preferably, a range of about 36 inches to 48 inches, and even more preferably, a range of about 42 inches to 48 inches. The spaced apart handles 5 thereby discourage a worker from an attempt to move thepackage 1 with both hands, and, further, encourage the worker to seek the assistance of a tow rope or the assistance of an additional worker or other workers to assist in moving or lifting thepackage 1. Thehandles 5 are present to reduce the likelihood that mechanical equipment will be called upon to move thepackage 1 and cause damage to the package. - According to an embodiment of the invention, the
wrapper 4 has spaced apart handles 5 cut into thewrapper 4 to form respective handle openings. For example, thewrapper 4 is cut by performing a process including, but not limited to, slitting, punching, slicing, perforating and tearing. Slitting is preferred. For example, in each ofFIGS. 2 and 2A , at least onehandle 5 is cut by slitting through at least one film thickness of anoverhang portion 9 to form a corresponding handle opening in the form of a slit. More specifically,FIG. 2 discloses twooverhang portions 5. Two spaced apart handles 5 are cut into eachoverhang portion 9. Thewrapper 4 is preferably cut by slitting to provide an elongated slit, for the handle opening in an arc shape, or arcuate shape, at opposite ends of an oblong section, which avoids potential tearing of the film due to excessive stress concentration, when thehandle 5 is grasped and pulled. For example, ahandle 5 is formed by cutting an elongated C-shaped slit having a rounded shape without sharp intersecting corners that would concentrate stress when thehandle 5 is being pulled. In an alternative embodiment, thehandle 5 can be formed by cutting an elongated straight slit without the rounded shape. The orientation of the elongated slit can vary. For example, each ofFIGS. 1 and 2 discloses a vertically oriented slit for eachhandle 5. - The
handle 5 is cut through a single thickness layer of thewrapper 4. Alternatively thewrapper 4 or sleeve is formed of two or more layers one inside another. Thehandle 5 is cut through each of the multiple layers, with such layers surrounding the opening of thehandle 5 to provide strength. In addition, one of the multiple layers surrounding the opening of thehandle 5 comprises a reinforcement layer, such as, by laminating or adhering a fiberglass reinforcing tape or by laminating of adhering a layer of melt bonded material, such as, a 5-10 mil thickness layer of polyethylene film. The reinforcement layer prevents material necking, caused by stretching of the material. -
FIG. 3 discloses a cutting die 12 having a thin, elongated, C-shaped,punch blade 13 that can form thehandle opening 5 with the desired rounded shape without sharp intersecting corners. The ends 13 a and 13 b of the C-shaped, punch blade curl, and point away from each other, which stress relieves the ends of the slit formed by theends wrapper 4.FIG. 1A discloseshandles 5 that preferably, are manufactured by being cut into a precursor of material from which thewrapper 4 is made. Alternatively, thewrapper 4 can be cut by the cutting die 12 after thewrapper 4 has been made and wrapped over thebags 2. As shown inFIG. 3B , thehandle opening 5 is cut through two layers of thewrapper 4. - The handle opening of each
handle 5 is sized with a width, preferably about 1.5 inches, and height, preferably about 5 inches, to receive the fingers on a single hand of a worker who manually grasps thehandle 5. Alternatively, a tow rope (not shown) can be attached to thehandle 5, for example, by the tow rope being looped through the handle opening and tied. Alternatively, the tow rope comprises a disconnect coupling member (not shown) that can be attached to thehandle 5. Further, eachhandle 5 is sized with a width and height that is less than the space for receiving two hands of the worker who can use but one hand to grasp thehandle 5. By discouraging the use of two hands, the worker will resort to use of the tow rope, and thereby will avert overexertion and worker injury. - Preferably, an embodiment of the invention has a plurality of two or
more handles 5 cut into thewrapper 4. Thehandles 5 are in one ormore overhang portions 9. Preferably, thehandles 5 are spaced apart by a span that is more lengthy than can be reached by two outstretched hands of a worker. According to an embodiment of the invention, thehandles 5 are spaced apart, preferably, a distance greater than the width between shoulders of a worker, and preferably, a distance of at least about 36 inches, and a range preferably about 36 inches to about 48 inches, and more preferably, about 42 inches to about 48 inches, which will require that a worker spread apart his or her arms to span the distance awkwardly, in an attempt to grasp twohandles 5. The awkwardness required to grip twohandles 5 will discourage a single worker from attempting to use two hands for lifting or moving theunit package 1. By discouraging the use of two hands, the worker using one hand will be limited in the amount of worker exertion that can be expended. Then the worker will resort to seek the assistance of a tow rope, or will be required to seek the assistance of an additional worker or workers who can grasp respective handles and lift or move theunit package 1. Thereby, the invention will avert overexertion and worker injury. - According to an embodiment of the invention, the
wrapper 4 has aunitary flap 14 for each layer of thewrapper 14 that is cut to make ahandle 5. Eachflap 14 extends along an uncut edge of each opening defining acorresponding handle 5. Eachflap 14 results from cutting thewrapper 4 with the C-shaped,punch blade 13. Thepunch blade 13 punches through each thickness of thewrapper 4, and produces a C-shaped cut. Further, the C-shaped,punch blade 13 produces anuncut flap 14 that remains attached along an uncut edge of the C-shaped cut. Eachflap 14 can be pushed out of the thickness plane of thecut wrapper 4, for example, when a worker inserts the fingers on one hand through the opening of thehandle 5. Further, eachflap 14 is capable of being doubled back along the uncut edge of thehandle 5 to form a doubled back section of thewrapper 4 that resists a pulling force applied to thehandle 5 by the worker's hand. Further, eachflap 14 is capable of being folded where it is doubled back, although a fold is not required. Doubling back or folding the wrapper material in the direction of the applied force increases the strength of thehandle 5 to resist tearing of thewrapper 4. - Each sleeve is capable of lying on its side in a position that covers the
handles 5. Moreover, when a number of sleeves are stacked together for storage in a truck or in a warehouse, the sleeves lie on their sides, which covers thehandles 5. Because theunit package 1 is bulky and awkward to move, thehandles 5 must be uncovered for safe and convenient use. According to embodiments of the invention, theends 7 of the sleeve comprising theoverhang portions 9 extend beyond thebags 3 that are encircled by the sleeve. Theoverhang portions 9 are flexible to bend away from the side of the sleeve to move thehandles 5 in theoverhang portions 9 away from the side of the sleeve and accessible for grasping when the side of the sleeve is covered, either by the sleeve lying on its side or by a number of sleeves stacked together. - This description of the exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description, relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,”, “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivative thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation. Terms concerning attachments, coupling and the like, such as “connected” and “interconnected,” refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise.
- Although the invention has been described in terms of exemplary embodiments, it is not limited thereto. Rather, the appended claims should be construed broadly, to include other variants and embodiments of the invention, which may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and range of equivalents of the invention.
Claims (9)
1. A method of making a unit package for multiple bags of insulation products, comprising:
forming a flexible film wrapper into a flexible sleeve having a side, and a corresponding end of the flexible sleeve projects outwardly beyond the bags of insulation products;
forming a pair of handles in the corresponding end of the sleeve, wherein the pair of handles are spaced apart a distance to deter a worker from using two hands to grasp both of said handles, and wherein the corresponding end is flexible to bend and move the handles away from the side of the flexible sleeve, such that the handles become accessible for grasping when the side of the sleeve is covered.
2. The method of claim 1 , comprising:
forming another end of the flexible sleeve, wherein each end of the flexible sleeve comprises an open end.
3. The method of claim 1 , comprising:
forming another end of the flexible sleeve and projecting said another end of the sleeve outwardly beyond the bags of insulation products to provide an overhang portion; and
gathering together the overhang portion to comprise a closed end of the wrapper.
4. The method of claim 1 , comprising:
forming the flexible sleeve with a longitudinal seam along the side of the sleeve.
5. The method of claim 1 , comprising:
forming flexible film wrapper into the flexible sleeve as a seamless unitary sleeve.
6. The method of claim 1 , comprising:
forming each said handle as a handle opening through the flexible film wrapper;
forming the flexible film wrapper with a flap along an uncut edge of each handle opening; and
doubling back the flap along the uncut edge of the handle opening.
7. The method of claim 1 , comprising:
forming the wrapper from sections of flexible film joined together along longitudinal side seams of the sleeve.
8. The method of claim 1 , comprising:
forming the flexible film wrapper with strands of a polymeric material, wherein the strands are woven in the flexible film wrapper.
9. The method of claim 1 , comprising:
forming the flexible film wrapper with strands of a polymeric material, wherein the strands are non-woven in the flexible film wrapper.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/549,429 US20090313945A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2009-08-28 | Unit Package for Insulation Products |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/610,532 US20080142380A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2006-12-14 | Unit package for insulation products |
US12/549,429 US20090313945A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2009-08-28 | Unit Package for Insulation Products |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/610,532 Division US20080142380A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2006-12-14 | Unit package for insulation products |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090313945A1 true US20090313945A1 (en) | 2009-12-24 |
Family
ID=39525834
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/610,532 Abandoned US20080142380A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2006-12-14 | Unit package for insulation products |
US12/549,429 Abandoned US20090313945A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2009-08-28 | Unit Package for Insulation Products |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/610,532 Abandoned US20080142380A1 (en) | 2006-12-14 | 2006-12-14 | Unit package for insulation products |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20080142380A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100062921A1 (en) * | 2008-09-11 | 2010-03-11 | Simple Container Solutions, Inc. | Expandable insulated packaging |
US10787303B2 (en) | 2016-05-29 | 2020-09-29 | Cellulose Material Solutions, LLC | Packaging insulation products and methods of making and using same |
US11078007B2 (en) | 2016-06-27 | 2021-08-03 | Cellulose Material Solutions, LLC | Thermoplastic packaging insulation products and methods of making and using same |
Families Citing this family (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US9739051B2 (en) * | 2009-06-30 | 2017-08-22 | Donald Leo Peek, JR. | Method to meter a thermal barrier upon a surface |
EP2540644B1 (en) * | 2011-06-30 | 2014-03-19 | The Procter and Gamble Company | Diaper package suitable as a changing mat |
US8978964B1 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2015-03-17 | Thomas S. Ruggiere, Sr. | Reinforced corrugated container with an exterior sleeve |
US10874263B2 (en) * | 2015-06-05 | 2020-12-29 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Package containing rolled products and process for making same |
IT201600106959A1 (en) * | 2016-10-24 | 2018-04-24 | Ica Spa | PACKAGES IN FLEXIBLE MATERIAL |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20080142380A1 (en) | 2008-06-19 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |