Abstract
A method for making a tamper-resistant container, comprising depositing a first adhesive on a container, wherein the container includes a closed lower portion, a middle portion adapted for storing contents, and a closeable upper portion, wherein the first adhesive is deposited at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a first panel of the container; folding the closeable upper portion a first time; and subsequent to folding the closeable upper portion the first time, folding the closeable upper portion at least a second time such that the first adhesive contacts a second panel of the container, thereby securely sealing the container in a tamper-resistant manner.
Claims
1. A method for making a tamper-resistant container, comprising: (a) depositing a first adhesive on a container, wherein the container includes a closed lower portion, a middle portion adapted for storing contents, and a closeable upper portion, wherein the first adhesive is deposited at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a first panel of the container; (b) folding the closeable upper portion a first time; and (c) subsequent to folding the closeable upper portion the first time, folding the closeable upper portion at least a second time such that the first adhesive contacts a second panel of the container to securely seal the container in a tamper-resistant manner.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: (a) depositing a second adhesive at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of the second panel, wherein the first panel is opposite the second panel; and (b) folding the closeable upper portion the at least second time until the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive.
3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: (a) prior to folding the closeable upper portion the first time, joining together an upper area of the first panel and an upper area of the second panel such that the closeable upper portion of the container is closed; (b) folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels the first time until the first adhesive is adjacent to the second adhesive; (c) folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels the at least second time until the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive; and (d) subsequent to the first adhesive contacting the second adhesive, applying compressive mechanical pressure by way of a mechanical embosser to securely seal the container.
4. The method of claim 2, further comprising: (a) forming a first fold line in the first panel and a first fold line in the second panel, wherein the first fold line formed in the first panel is horizontally aligned with the first fold line formed in the second panel; and (b) forming a second fold line in the second panel at a predetermined distance below the first fold line formed in the second panel.
5. The method of claim 4, further comprising: (a) folding the closeable upper portion the first time about the first fold lines of the first and second panels; and (b) folding the closeable upper portion the at least second time about the second fold line.
6. The method of claim 4, wherein: (a) the first adhesive is deposited above the first fold line formed in the first panel; (b) the second adhesive is deposited below the second fold line formed in the second panel.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising: (a) forming a first slot in the first panel of the container; and (b) forming a second slot in the second panel of the container that opposes the first slot, wherein the first and second slots are configured as a handle when the container is sealed in the tamper-resistant manner.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the first and second adhesives are cold seal adhesives, permanent pressure-sensitive adhesives, cohesives, remoistenable adhesives, repositionable adhesives, or combinations thereof.
9. The method of claim 1, wherein the container is a paper or plastic bag.
10. A method for making a tamper-resistant container, comprising: (a) depositing a first adhesive on a container, wherein the container includes a closed lower portion, a middle portion adapted for storing contents, and a closeable upper portion, wherein the first adhesive is deposited at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a first panel of the container; (b) depositing a second adhesive at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a second panel of the container, wherein the first panel is opposite the second panel; (c) folding the closeable upper portion a first time; and (d) subsequent to folding the closeable upper portion the first time, folding the closeable upper portion at least a second time until the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive to securely seal the container in a tamper-resistant manner, wherein separating the first and second adhesives damages the container and provides evidence of tampering.
11. The method of claim 10, further comprising, subsequent to the first adhesive contacting the second adhesive, applying hand pressure to securely seal the container, or applying compressive mechanical pressure by way of a mechanical embosser to securely seal the container.
12. The method of claim 10, further comprising, prior to folding the closeable upper portion the first time, joining together an upper area of the first panel and an upper area of the second panel such that the closeable upper portion of the container is closed.
13. The method of claim 10, further comprising: (a) forming a first fold line in the first panel and a first fold line in the second panel, wherein the first fold line formed in the first panel is horizontally aligned with the first fold line formed in the second panel; and (b) forming a second fold line in the second panel at a predetermined distance below the first fold line formed in the second panel.
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: (a) folding the closeable upper portion the first time about the first fold lines of the first and second panels; and (b) folding the closeable upper portion the at least second time about the second fold line.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein: (a) the first adhesive is deposited above the first fold line formed in the first panel; and (b) the second adhesive is deposited below the second fold line formed in the second panel.
16. The method of claim 10, further comprising: (a) forming a first slot in the first panel of the container; and (b) forming a second slot in the second panel of the container that opposes the first slot, wherein the first and second slots are configured as a handle when the container is sealed in the tamper-resistant manner.
17. The method of claim 10, wherein the first and second adhesives are cold seal adhesives, permanent pressure-sensitive adhesives, cohesives, remoistenable adhesives, repositionable adhesives, or combinations thereof.
18. The method of claim 10, wherein the container is a paper or plastic bag.
19. A method for making a tamper-resistant container, comprising: (a) depositing a first adhesive on a container, wherein the container includes a closed lower portion, a middle portion adapted for storing contents, and a closeable upper portion, wherein the first adhesive is deposited at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a first panel of the container, and wherein the container is a paper or plastic bag; (b) depositing a second adhesive at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a second panel of the container, wherein the first panel is opposite the second panel; (c) joining together an upper area of the first panel and an upper area of the second panel such that the closeable upper portion of the container is closed; (d) folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels a first time such that the first adhesive is adjacent to the second adhesive; and (e) folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels at least a second time until the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive to securely seal the container in a tamper-resistant manner, wherein separating the first and second adhesives damages the container and provides evidence of tampering.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: (a) forming a first fold line in the first panel and a first fold line in the second panel, wherein the first fold line formed in the first panel is horizontally aligned with the first fold line formed in the second panel; (b) forming a second fold line in the second panel at a predetermined distance below the first fold line formed in the second panel; (c) folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels the first time about the first fold lines of the first and second panels; and (d) folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels the at least second time about the second fold line.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and form a part of the specification, schematically illustrate one or more example implementations of the disclosed technology and together with the general description given above and detailed description given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed subject matter, and wherein:
[0021] FIGS. 1A-1F depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system, wherein strips of a predetermined type of cold seal adhesive have been deposited on both an upper flap portion of a paper bag and a top portion of the bag that is configured to receive the upper flap portion thereon; and wherein FIG. 1A depicts the bag in an open configuration with the adhesive portions being shown in their respective positions; FIG. 1B depicts front and back portions of the bag being brought together; FIG. 1C depicts the upper flap being folded down onto the adhesive-bearing top portion to close the bag; FIG. 1D depicts a compression device being used to apply compressive pressure to the adhesive-bearing portions of the bag;
[0022] FIG. 2A depicts an example compression device, which in this implementation is a commercially available embosser; and FIG. 2B depicts an example pattern or logo that is created on the sealed portion of a bag by the embosser when the embosser is used to seal a bag as shown in FIG. 1D (above) and FIG. 3F (below);
[0023] FIGS. 3A-3F depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein strips of a predetermined type of cold seal adhesive have been deposited on various inner surfaces of a paper bag near a closeable top portion thereof; and wherein FIG. 3A depicts the locations within the top portion of the bag where the adhesive has been deposited; FIG. 3B depicts the side portions of the bag being pushed outward; FIG. 3C depicts the side portions of the bag being further extended outward; FIG. 3D depicts the top edges of the bag being brought together to allow the strips of adhesive contact one another; FIG. 3E depicts the bag in a closed configuration; and FIG. 3F depicts an embosser being used to apply compressive pressure to the adhesive-bearing portions of the bag to seal the bag;
[0024] FIG. 4 depicts part of an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system that utilizes a piece of material separate from the container to seal the container, wherein the separate piece of material is a label having a front side and a back side, and wherein either a self-seal cohesive material is deposited in strips along the length of the back side of the label; or a pressure-seal cohesive material is deposited in strips along the length of the back side of the label;
[0025] FIGS. 5A-5C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as fold and seal wherein the label of FIG. 4 is used to seal a paper bag in a tamper-resistant manner; and wherein FIG. 5A depicts a paper bag having a foldable upper portion, wherein a slot has been formed in and through the material of the bag just below the foldable upper portion; FIG. 5B depicts the label of FIG. 4 inserted through the slot such that the adhesive deposited on back side of the label contacts itself and seals the bag; and FIG. 5C depicts an embosser being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of the label that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal;
[0026] FIGS. 6A-6C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as loop and seal wherein the label of FIG. 4 is used to seal a paper bag in a tamper-resistant manner; and wherein FIG. 6A depicts a paper bag having a foldable upper portion, wherein a circular aperture has been formed in and through the material of the bag just below the foldable upper portion; FIG. 6B depicts the label of FIG. 4 looped over the aperture such that the adhesive deposited on back side of the label contacts itself and seals the bag; and FIG. 6C depicts an embosser being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of the label that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal;
[0027] FIGS. 7A-7G depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein the label of FIG. 4 has been modified to act both as a device to seal the bag and as a handle to carry the bag; and wherein FIG. 7A depicts a label having two square apertures formed at opposite ends of the label and two strips of a predetermined type of cold seal adhesive deposited on either side of each aperture four a total of four parallel strips; FIG. 7B depicts a paper bag having a foldable upper portion and a slot formed in and through the material of the bag just below the foldable upper portion; FIG. 7C depicts the label/handle being inserted though the slot with the adhesive side facing upward; FIG. 7D depicts the label/handle being folded onto itself to bring the strips of adhesive into contact with one another; FIG. 7E depicts the application of hand pressure to the label/handle; FIG. 7F depicts an embosser being used to apply compressive pressure to the label/handle; and FIG. 7G depicts the bag being carried using the label/handle as a handle;
[0028] FIGS. 8A-8E depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein the container is a plastic bag that includes two integrated handles formed from the material of the bag at the open end thereof; and wherein FIG. 8A depicts the handles being tied together to form a knot and two loops that also act as handles; FIG. 8B depicts the label of FIG. 4 being inserted through the loops; FIG. 8C depicts the adhesive-bearing side of the label being adhered to itself; FIG. 8D depicts the bag in a closed configuration with the label sealing the bag in a tamper-resistant manner; and FIG. 8E depicts an embosser being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of the label that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal;
[0029] FIGS. 9A-9C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system, wherein the container is a piece of material configured as a drink carrier; and wherein FIG. 9A depicts the drink carrier in an open configuration showing the location of adhesive-bearing handle portions and a centrally placed aperture for receiving a cup; FIG. 9B depicts the drink carrier in a closed position with a cup placed within the aperture; and FIG. 9C depicts the label of FIG. 4 inserted through the handle portions and adhered to itself to seal the drink carrier in a tamper-resistant manner;
[0030] FIG. 10 depicts part of an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system that utilizes a piece of material separate from the container to seal the container, wherein the separate piece of material is a receipt having a front side and a back side, and wherein a broken strip of a first type of adhesive has been deposited along the length of the receipt on a middle portion of the back side thereof, and wherein two broken strips of a second type of adhesive have been deposited along the length of the receipt on the back side thereof on either side of the broken strip of the first type of adhesive; and wherein the first type of adhesive is either a repositionable adhesive or a permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive; and the second type of adhesive is either a self-seal cohesive material or a pressure-seal cohesive material;
[0031] FIGS. 11A-11C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as fold and seal wherein the receipt of FIG. 10 is used to seal a paper bag in a tamper-resistant manner; and wherein FIG. 11A depicts a paper bag having a foldable upper portion, wherein a slot has been formed in and through the material of the bag just below the foldable upper portion, and wherein the receipt is temporarily adhered to the front of the bag using the first type of adhesive; FIG. 11B depicts the receipt of FIG. 10 inserted through the slot such that the second type of adhesive deposited on back side of the receipt contacts itself and seals the bag; and FIG. 11C depicts an embosser being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of the receipt that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal;
[0032] FIGS. 12A-12C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as loop and seal wherein the receipt of FIG. 10 is used to seal a paper bag in a tamper-resistant manner; and wherein FIG. 12A depicts a paper bag having a foldable upper portion, wherein a circular aperture has been formed in and through the material of the bag just below the foldable upper portion; FIG. 12B depicts the receipt of FIG. 10 looped over the aperture such that the adhesive deposited on back side of the receipt contacts itself and seals the bag; and FIG. 12C depicts an embosser being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of the receipt that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal;
[0033] FIGS. 13A-13C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein the container is a plastic bag that includes two integrated handles formed from the material of the bag at the open end thereof; and wherein FIG. 13A depicts the receipt of FIG. 10 temporarily adhered to the front of the bag using the first type of adhesive; FIG. 13B depicts the handles of the bag being tied together to form a knot and two loops that also act as handles and the receipt inserted through the loops and adhered to itself to seal the bag; and FIG. 13C depicts an embosser being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of the receipt that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal;
[0034] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of another example embodiment of the disclosed tamper-resistant container shown in an open configuration, wherein a first adhesive has been deposited on a front panel of the container;
[0035] FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view of the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 14, wherein a second adhesive has been deposited on a rear panel of the container;
[0036] FIG. 16 is a rear view of the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 14 shown in a fully closed and sealed configuration;
[0037] FIGS. 17A-17D depict exemplary steps of sealing the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 14, wherein FIG. 17A depicts a user gripping the upper areas of the first and second panels; FIG. 17B depicts the upper areas of the first and second panels being folded together a first time such that the first adhesive is adjacent to the second adhesive; FIG. 17C depicts the upper areas of the first and second panels being folded a second time such that the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive; and FIG. 17D depicts applying pressure to the portions adhered together to seal the container in a tamper-resistant manner;
[0038] FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of yet another example embodiment of the disclosed tamper-resistant container shown in an open configuration, wherein a first adhesive has been deposited on a front panel of the container;
[0039] FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 18, wherein a second adhesive has been deposited on a rear panel of the container;
[0040] FIG. 20 is a rear view of the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 18 shown in a fully closed and sealed configuration;
[0041] FIGS. 21A-21D depict exemplary steps of sealing the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 18, wherein FIG. 21A depicts a user gripping the top edges of the first and second panels; FIG. 21B depicts the top edges of the first and second panels being folded a first time such that the first adhesive is adjacent to the second adhesive; FIG. 21C depicts the top edges of the first and second panels being folded a second time such that the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive; and FIG. 21D depicts applying pressure to the portions adhered together to seal the container in a tamper-resistant manner;
[0042] FIGS. 22A-22C depict still another example embodiment of the disclosed tamper-resistant container, wherein FIG. 22A is a front perspective view of the disclosed tamper-resistant container shown in an open configuration, wherein FIG. 22B is a rear perspective view of the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 22A, and wherein FIG. 22C is a rear view of the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 22A shown in a fully closed and sealed configuration;
[0043] FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of yet another example embodiment of the disclosed tamper-resistant container shown in an open configuration, wherein the tamper-resistant container comprises a first adhesive deposited on a front panel, and a first slot formed in the front panel;
[0044] FIG. 24 is a rear perspective view of the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 23, wherein the tamper-resistant container further comprises a second adhesive deposited on a rear panel, and a second slot formed in the rear panel;
[0045] FIGS. 25A-25E depict exemplary steps of sealing the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 23, wherein FIG. 25A depicts top edges of the first and second panels being folded a first time, wherein FIG. 25B depicts the top edges of the first and second panels being folded a second time such that the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive, wherein FIG. 25C depicts an exemplary label/receipt being inserted through first and second slots with an adhesive side facing upwards, wherein FIG. 25D depicts the label/receipt being folded onto itself such that the adhesive side comes into contact with itself, and wherein FIG. 25E depicts the sealed tamper-resistant container being carried using first and second handle members;
[0046] FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of yet another example embodiment of the disclosed tamper-resistant container shown in an open configuration, wherein the tamper-resistant container comprises a first slot formed in a front panel;
[0047] FIG. 27 is a rear perspective view the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 26, wherein the tamper-resistant container further comprises a second slot formed in a rear panel; and
[0048] FIGS. 28A-28D depict exemplary steps of sealing the tamper-resistant container of FIG. 26, wherein FIG. 28A depicts top edges of the first and second panels being folded a first time, wherein FIG. 28B depicts the top edges of the first and second panels being folded a second time, wherein FIG. 28C depicts an exemplary label/receipt being inserted through first and second slots with an adhesive side facing upwards, and FIG. 28D depicts the label/receipt adhered to itself thereby sealing the container in a tamper-resistant manner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0049] Example implementations are now described with reference to the Figures. Reference numerals are used throughout the detailed description to refer to the various elements and structures. Although the following detailed description contains many specifics for the purposes of illustration, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and alterations to the following details are within the scope of the disclosed technology. Accordingly, the following implementations are set forth without any loss of generality to, and without imposing limitations upon, the claimed subject matter.
[0050] The examples discussed herein are examples only and are provided to assist in the explanation of the apparatuses, devices, systems, and methods described herein. None of the features or components shown in the drawings or discussed below should be taken as required for any specific implementation of any of these the apparatuses, devices, systems or methods unless specifically designated as such. For ease of reading and clarity, certain components, modules, or methods may be described solely in connection with a specific Figure. Any failure to specifically describe a combination or sub-combination of components should not be understood as an indication that any combination or sub-combination is not possible. Also, for any methods described, regardless of whether the method is described in conjunction with a flow diagram, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified or required by context, any explicit or implicit ordering of steps performed in the execution of a method does not imply that those steps must be performed in the order presented but instead may be performed in a different order or in parallel.
[0051] The disclosed systems, devices, and methods are used to seal containers in a manner that provides visual evidence of tampering. One general embodiment of the disclosed technology includes a paper bag, portions of which include one or more adhesives deposited thereon, that is sealable by applying pressure to the adhesive after the portions of the bag that include the adhesive are brought together. The paper bag can be folded one or a plurality of times when sealing the bag in a tamper-resistant manner. Any attempt to unseal or otherwise open the bag will tear the material of the bag, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering with the container. Some embodiments of the disclosed technology includes containers that are sealed using either labels or receipts that include one or more types of adhesive deposited on one side thereof. These labels or receipts are applied using one of the disclosed methods. Any attempt to remove the labels or receipts will significantly damage or completely destroy the labels and receipts, thereby providing visual proof of tampering with the container. The containers that may be used with the disclosed systems and methods include paper and plastic bags, paper and plastic foldable drink holders, and many other types of containers that are used to store and transport food and other items. In general, the disclosed labels and receipts are used in an example process that includes the following steps: (1) an item is ordered; (2) a label or receipt having the materials and adhesive characteristics described herein is generated at the point of purchase; (3) the label or receipt is temporarily stuck to the exterior of the bag (in certain implementations); (4) the bag is filled and the contents are verified using information appearing on the label or receipt; (5) the bag is closed using one of the disclosed methods; (6) the label or receipt is used to further close and seal the bag; and (7) either hand pressure or a force multiplying compression device such as an embosser is used to close or lock the receipt or label in a manner that applies consistent and non-variable pressure to the adhesive on the label or receipt. Use of the embosser or similar compression device with the disclosed containers and receipts provides consistent pressure at all times and increases bond strength between the container, the receipt or label, or both the container and the receipt or label. Following compression, the fibers of the paper material of the disclosed labels and receipts will tear in a visible manner if an attempt is made to remove the locked label or receipt.
[0052] With reference to FIGS. 1A-1D, an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system includes a container such as, for example, a paper bag of the type used to store and transport fast food items and the like. Bag 100 includes closed bottom portion 102 and closeable top portion 104. Closeable top portion 104 includes flap of material 106 that may be folded over onto one side of the bag to close the top portion. Strip of adhesive 108 is deposited on an inner surface of flap 106 and strip of adhesive 110 is deposited on a portion of the bag onto which the flap is folded. In one implementation, the adhesive is a self-seal cohesive material that forms a bond between flap 106 and the portion of bag 100 onto which flap 106 is folded using normal or hand pressure. Once this bond is formed, the top portion of the bag cannot be reopened without damaging the paper of the bag itself. Therefore, disrupting this bond provides visual evidence of tampering with the bag or the contents thereof. Examples of suitable self-seal cohesive materials include rubber latex adhesives having no residual tack. In another implementation, the adhesive is a pressure-seal cohesive material that forms a bond between flap 106 and the portion of the bag onto which flap 106 is folded using increased or enhanced force such as the type of force provided by an embossing tool (200) or similar device. Once this bond is formed, the top portion of the bag cannot be reopened without damaging the paper of the bag itself. Therefore, disrupting this bond provides visual evidence of tampering with the bag or the contents thereof. Examples of suitable pressure-seal cohesive materials include rubber latex adhesives that are not shear sensitive and non-rubber latex (e.g. acrylic and vinyl acetate) adhesives. FIGS. 1A-1D depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system, wherein strips of a predetermined type of adhesive have been deposited on both an upper flap portion (106) of a paper bag (100) and a top portion of the bag that is configured to receive the upper flap portion (106) thereon. FIG. 1A depicts bag 100 in an open configuration with the adhesive portions being shown in their respective positions; FIG. 1B depicts front and back portions of bag 100 being brought together; FIG. 1C depicts upper flap 106 being folded down onto the adhesive-bearing top portion of bag 100 to close the bag; and FIG. 1D depicts a compression device (200) being used to apply compressive pressure to the adhesive-bearing portions of bag 100.
[0053] FIG. 2A depicts example compression device 200, which in this implementation is a commercially available embosser; and FIG. 2B depicts example pattern or logo 250 that is created on the sealed portion of a bag by the embosser when the embosser is used to seal the bag. The embosser applies greater, more consistent, and more uniform pressure to the adhesive labels and receipts, thereby creating an effective and reliable closure. The embosser may be configured to create various embossed patterns that may include warnings such as do not tamper or tamper proof label. The patterns created by the embosser may include corporate logos, advertisements, or other graphics or subject matter.
[0054] With reference to FIGS. 3A-3F, a second embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system includes a container such as, for example, a paper bag of the type used to store and transport fast food items and the like. Bag 300 includes closed bottom portion 302 and closeable top portion 304. Strips of adhesive 306, 308, 310, 312 are deposited on the inside surfaces of the bag near closeable top portion 304. Bag 300 is sealed by pushing the sides of the bag outward (see FIG. 3C) such that the strips of adhesive contact one another and form a bond along the top portion of the bag. In one implementation, the adhesive is a self-seal cohesive material that forms a bond between the adhesive strips using normal or hand pressure. Once this bond is formed, the top portion of the bag cannot be reopened without damaging the paper of the bag itself. Therefore, disrupting this bond provides visual evidence of tampering. Examples of suitable self-seal cohesive materials include rubber latex adhesives having no residual tack. In another implementation, the adhesive is a pressure-seal cohesive material that forms a bond between the adhesive strips using increased or enhanced force such as the type of force provided by an embossing tool or similar device. Once this bond is formed, the top portion of the bag cannot be reopened without damaging the paper of the bag itself. Therefore, disrupting this bond provides visual evidence of tampering with the bag or the contents thereof. Examples of suitable pressure-seal cohesive materials include rubber latex adhesives that are not shear sensitive and non-rubber latex (e.g. acrylic and vinyl acetate) adhesives. FIGS. 3A-3F depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein strips of a predetermined type of adhesive (306, 308, 310, 312) have been deposited on various inner surfaces of a paper bag (300) near a closeable top portion thereof (304). FIG. 3A depicts the locations within top portion 304 where adhesive has been deposited; FIG. 3B depicts the side portions of bag 300 being pushed outward; FIG. 3C depicts the side portions of the bag being further extended outward; FIG. 3D depicts the top edges of bag 300 being brought together to allow the strips of adhesive contact one another; FIG. 3E depicts bag 300 in a closed configuration; and FIG. 3F depicts an embosser (200) being used to apply compressive pressure to the adhesive-bearing portions of bag 300 to seal the bag.
[0055] With reference to FIG. 4, embodiments of the disclosed container sealing system include a label (e.g., linerless, regular paper, thermal paper, etc.) having a front side and a back side wherein (i) a self-seal cohesive material is deposited in strips along the length of the back side of the label; or (ii) a pressure-seal cohesive material deposited in strips along the length of the back side of the label. The strips of adhesive are typically oriented parallel to one another and perpendicular to the length of the label material. This label, the front side of which is configured to include information about the items purchased in a particular transaction, may be printed at the point of sale for food and other items and may then be used to seal bags or other containers in a tamper-resistant manner. FIG. 4 depicts label 400 having a front side and a back side, wherein a self-seal cohesive material is deposited in strips 402 along the length of the back side of label 400 or a pressure-seal cohesive material is deposited in strips 402 along the length of the back side of label 400.
[0056] In another example embodiment (see FIGS. 5A-5C), the container is paper bag 500 that includes slot 502 formed through the top, closeable portion 504 of the bag. The top of bag 500 is folded over onto itself as shown in the Figures, and label 400 is inserted through slot 502 such that the adhesive deposited on back side of the label contacts itself (i.e., two portions of the back side of the label contact each other) and seals bag 500. When hand pressure is applied to the implementation of label 400 that includes the self-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of the label that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of the label causes the fiber of label 400 to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing tool 200 or similar device is used to apply force to the implementation of label 400 that includes the pressure-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of the label that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of the label causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. FIGS. 5A-5C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as fold and seal wherein label 400 (see FIG. 4) is used to seal paper bag 500 in a tamper-resistant manner. FIG. 5A depicts paper bag 500 having foldable upper portion 504, wherein slot 502 has been formed in and through the material of bag 500 just below foldable upper portion 504; FIG. 5B depicts label 400 inserted through slot 502 such that the adhesive deposited on back side of label 400 contacts itself and seals the bag; and FIG. 5C depicts embosser 200 being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of label 400 that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.
[0057] In another example embodiment (see FIGS. 6A-6C), aperture 602 is formed in container or bag 600 near closeable portion 604, and label 400 is looped over closeable portion 604 such that the adhesive deposited on the rear side of label 400 contacts itself through aperture 602, thereby sealing bag 600. FIGS. 6A-6C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as loop and seal wherein label 400 (see FIG. 4) is used to seal paper bag 600 in a tamper-resistant manner. FIG. 6A depicts paper bag 600, having a foldable upper portion 604, wherein circular aperture 602 has been formed in and through the material of bag 600 just below foldable upper portion 604; FIG. 6B depicts the label 400 looped over aperture 602 such that the adhesive deposited on back side of label 400 contacts itself and seals bag 600; and FIG. 6C depicts embosser 200 being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of label 400 that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.
[0058] In another example embodiment (see FIGS. 7A-7G), the label component of the system is modified to act both as a device to seal the bag and as a handle to carry the bag. FIGS. 7A-7G depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein label 452 seals the bag in a tamper-resistant manner and provides a carrying handle bag. FIG. 7A depicts a label (452) having two square apertures 452, 454 formed at opposite ends of the label and two strips of a predetermined type of adhesive deposited on either side of each aperture four a total of four parallel strips 460, 462, 464, 466; FIG. 7B depicts paper bag 700 having foldable upper portion 704 and slot 702 formed in and through the material of the bag just below foldable upper portion 704; FIG. 7C depicts label/handle 450 being inserted though slot 702 with the adhesive side facing upward; FIG. 7D depicts label/handle 450 being folded onto itself to bring the strips of adhesive into contact with one another; FIG. 7E depicts the application of hand pressure to label/handle 450; FIG. 7F depicts embosser 200 being used to apply compressive pressure to the label/handle 450; and FIG. 7G depicts bag 700 being carried using label/handle 450 a carrying handle. In various embodiments and implementations, handle 450 includes a thick paper (e.g., from Convertible Solutions: https://convertiblesolutions.com/) or a sheet of biodegradable film (e.g., from https://www.orangebio.com/).
[0059] In another example embodiment (see FIGS. 8A-8E), the container is a plastic bag (800) that includes two integrated handles formed from the material of the bag at an open end thereof. The handles are tied together to form a knot (802) and two loops that also act as handles (804, 806). Label 400 is looped through the two looped handles (804, 806) such that the adhesive deposited on back side of the label contacts itself and seals the bag by making it impossible to untie the knot without destroying label 400. When hand pressure is applied to the implementation that includes the self-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of label 400 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of label 400 causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing tool 200 or similar device is used to apply force to the implementation that includes the pressure-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of label 400 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of label 400 causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. In an alternate variation of this implementation, the plastic bag (800) is a clear material through which the contents of the bag are visible. The information appearing on the label can be used to verify the contents of the bag after bag 800 has been sealed. The plastic bags used in this implementation may be regular or common plastic bags, biodegradable plastic bags, or compostable plastic bags. FIGS. 8A-8E depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein container 800 is a plastic bag that includes two integrated handles formed from the material of the bag at the open end thereof. FIG. 8A depicts the handles being tied together to form knot 802 and two loops that also act as handles (804, 806); FIG. 8B depicts label 400 (see FIG. 4) being inserted through loops 804 and 806; FIG. 8C depicts the adhesive-bearing side of label 400 being adhered to itself; FIG. 8D depicts bag 800 in a closed configuration with label 400 sealing the bag in a tamper-resistant manner; and FIG. 8E depicts embosser 200 being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of label 400 that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.
[0060] Another example embodiment (see FIGS. 9A-9C), includes a detachable or separable handle component configured to securely hold or enclose a liquid-holding container and provide a carrying handle. Handle component 900 further includes foldable body 902 having a centrally placed aperture 904 configured to receive cup 920, and first and second slots (906, 908) formed in opposing ends of body 902, wherein when body 902 is folded, slots 906 and 908 cooperate with one another to form carrying handle 912. Label 400 is looped through slots 906 and 908 such that the adhesive deposited on back side of label 400 contacts itself (i.e., two portions of the back side of the label contact each other) and seals carrying handle 912 in a closed configuration. When hand pressure is applied to the implementation that includes the self-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of label 400 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of label 400 causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing tool 200 or similar device is used to apply force to the implementation that includes the pressure-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of label 400 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of label 400 causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. FIGS. 9A-9C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system, wherein the container is a piece of material configured as a drink carrier. FIG. 9A depicts drink carrier 900 in an open configuration showing the location of adhesive-bearing handle portions (905, 907) and centrally placed aperture 904 for receiving cup 920; FIG. 9B depicts drink carrier 900 in a closed position with cup 920 placed within aperture 904; and FIG. 9C depicts label 400 inserted through handle portions 905 and 907 and adhered to itself to seal drink carrier 900 in a tamper-resistant manner.
[0061] With reference to FIG. 10, embodiments of the disclosed container sealing system include receipt 1000 (e.g., linerless, regular paper, thermal paper, etc.) having a front side and a back side, wherein a broken strip of a first type of adhesive 1010 has been deposited along the length of the receipt on a middle portion of the back side thereof, and wherein two broken strips of a second type of adhesive (1020, 1030) have been deposited along the length of the receipt on the back side thereof on either side of the broken strip of the first type of adhesive. The first type of adhesive is either a repositionable adhesive or a permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive; and the second type of adhesive is either a self-seal cohesive material or a pressure-seal cohesive material. This receipt, the front side of which is configured to include information about a particular transaction, may be printed at the point of sale for food and other items. Information about the contents of a bag or container may be printed on the receipt and the receipt may be temporarily attached to the front of a bag or container while the bag or container is being filled. Once the contents of the bag or container have been verified using the information printed on the receipt, the receipt may be used to seal the bag or containers in a tamper-resistant manner. FIG. 10 depicts receipt 1000 having a front side and a back side, wherein a broken strip of a first type of adhesive 1010 has been deposited along the length of receipt 1000 on a middle portion of the back side thereof; wherein two broken strips of a second type of adhesive (1020, 1030) have been deposited along the length of receipt 1000 on the back side thereof on either side of the broken strip of the first type of adhesive (1010); and wherein the first type of adhesive is either a repositionable adhesive or a permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive and the second type of adhesive is either a self-seal cohesive material or a pressure-seal cohesive material. Some implementations of this receipt are referred to as a dual-functionality sticky thermal receipt.
[0062] In another example embodiment (see FIGS. 11A-11C), the container is paper bag 1100 that includes slot 1102 formed through the top, closeable portion of the bag (1104). The top of the bag is folded over onto itself as shown in the Figures, and receipt 1000 is inserted through the slot such that the adhesive deposited on back side of receipt 1000 contacts itself (i.e., two portions of the back side of the receipt contact each other) and seals bag 1100. When hand pressure is applied to the implementation that includes the self-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of receipt 1000 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of receipt 1000 causes the fiber of the receipt to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing tool 200 or similar device is used to apply force to the implementation that includes the pressure-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of receipt 1000 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of receipt 1000 causes the fiber of the receipt to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. FIGS. 11A-11C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as fold and seal wherein receipt 1000 is used to seal a paper bag in a tamper-resistant manner. FIG. 11A depicts paper bag 1100 having foldable upper portion 1104, wherein slot 1102 has been formed in and through the material of the bag just below foldable upper portion 1104, and wherein receipt 1000 is temporarily adhered to the front of the bag using the first type of adhesive; FIG. 11B depicts receipt 1000 inserted through slot 1102 such that the second type of adhesive deposited on back side of receipt 1000 contacts itself and seals bag 1100; and FIG. 11C depicts embosser 200 being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of receipt 1000 that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.
[0063] In another example embodiment (see FIGS. 12A-12C), aperture 1202 is formed in container or bag 1200 near the closeable end thereof, and receipt 1000 is looped over the top portion of bag 1200 such that the adhesive deposited on the rear side of receipt 1000 contacts itself through aperture 1202 thereby sealing bag 1200. FIGS. 12A-12C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as loop and seal wherein receipt 1000 is used to seal a paper bag (1200) in a tamper-resistant manner. FIG. 12A depicts paper bag 1200 having foldable upper portion 1204, wherein circular aperture 1202 has been formed in and through the material of bag 1200 just below foldable upper portion 1204; FIG. 12B depicts receipt 1000 looped over aperture 1202 such that the adhesive deposited on back side of the receipt contacts itself and seals the bag; and FIG. 12C depicts embosser 200 being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of receipt 1000 that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.
[0064] In another example embodiment (see FIGS. 13A-13C), the container is plastic bag 1300 that includes two integrated handles formed from the material of the bag at the open end thereof. The handles are tied together to form knot 1302 and two loops that act as handles (1304, 1306). Receipt 1000 is looped through the two looped handles (1304, 1306) such that the adhesive deposited on back side of receipt 1000 contacts itself and seals bag 1300 by making it impossible to untie the knot without destroying receipt 1000. FIGS. 13A-13C depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein the container is the described plastic bag. FIG. 13A depicts receipt 1000 (see FIG. 10) temporarily adhered to the front of bag 1300 using the first type of adhesive; FIG. 13B depicts the handles of the bag being tied together to form knot 1302 and two loops (1304, 1306) that also act as handles and receipt 1000 inserted through the loops and adhered to itself to seal the bag; and FIG. 13C depicts embosser 200 being used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of receipt 1000 that has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.
[0065] Now referring to FIGS. 14-16, tamper-resistant container 2000 is a paper bag having closed bottom portion 2010, middle portion 2020 configured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion 2030. Container 2000 further comprises front panel 2100, rear panel 2200, first side panel 2300, and second side panel 2400. First strip of adhesive 2130 is deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surface 2110 of front panel 2100. First strip of adhesive 2130 is deposited on upper area 2120 of front panel 2100. Fold line 2140 is formed in upper area 2120 of front panel 2100 at a predetermined location below strip of adhesive 2130. Second strip of adhesive 2230 is deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surface 2210 of rear panel 2200. Second strip of adhesive 2230 is deposited on upper area 2220 of rear panel 2200. First fold line 2240 is formed in upper area 2220 of rear panel 2200 at a predetermined location that is horizontally aligned with fold line 2140 formed in front panel 2100. Second fold line 2250 is formed in upper area 2220 of rear panel 2200 at a predetermined location below first fold line 2240 but above strip of adhesive 2230. Strips of adhesive 2130, 2230 and fold lines 2140, 2240, 2250 are each contained in closeable top portion 2030 of container 2000.
[0066] Now referring to FIGS. 14-16 and 17A-17D, to form and/or seal tamper-resistant container 2000, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) joining together upper areas 2120, 2220 of front and rear panels 2100, 2200, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion 2030; (ii) folding a section of top portion 2030 a first time about fold lines 2140, 2240 until first strip of adhesive 2130 is adjacent to second strip of adhesive 2230; (iii) folding the section of top portion 2030 at least a second time about second fold line 2250 until first strip of adhesive 2130 contacts second strip of adhesive 2230; and (iv) applying pressure to seal container 2000 in a tamper-resistant manner such that top portion 2030 cannot be re-opened without damaging the material (e.g. paper, plastic, cardboard, cardstock, etc.) of container 2000 itself. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds can be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device (200) is used to apply compressive pressure to seal container 2000 in a tamper-resistant manner.
[0067] Now referring to FIGS. 18-20, tamper-resistant container 3000 is a paper bag having closed bottom portion 3010, middle portion 3020 configured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion 3030. Container 3000 further comprises front panel 3100 in which first slot 3150 is formed, rear panel 3200 in which second slot 3260 is formed, first side panel 3300, and second side panel 3400. First slot 3150 is opposite second slot 3260. When container 3000 is fully closed, first and second slots 3150, 3260 form a handle that allows a user to carry container 3000. First strip of adhesive 3130 is deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surface 3110 of front panel 3100. First strip of adhesive 3130 is deposited on upper area 3120 of front panel 3100. Fold line 3140 is formed in upper area 3120 of front panel 3100 at a predetermined location below strip of adhesive 3130. Second strip of adhesive 3230 is deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surface 3210 of rear panel 3200. Second strip of adhesive 3230 is deposited on upper area 3220 of rear panel 3200. First fold line 3240 is formed in upper area 3220 of rear panel 3200 at a predetermined location that is horizontally aligned with fold line 3140 formed in front panel 3100. Second fold line 3250 is formed in upper area 3220 of rear panel 3200 at a predetermined location below first fold line 3240 but above strip of adhesive 3230. Strips of adhesive 3130, 3230 and fold lines 3140, 3240, 3250 are each contained in closeable top portion 3030 of container 3000.
[0068] Now referring to FIGS. 18-20 and 21A-21D, to form and/or seal tamper-resistant container 3000, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) forming first slot 3150 in front panel 3100, and forming second slot 3260 in rear panel 3200; (ii) joining together upper areas 3120, 3220 of front and rear panels 3100, 3200, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion 3030; (iii) folding a section of top portion 3030 a first time about fold lines 3140, 3240 until first strip of adhesive 3130 is adjacent to second strip of adhesive 3230; (iv) folding the section of top portion 3030 at least a second time about second fold line 3250 until first strip of adhesive 3130 contacts second strip of adhesive 3230; and (v) applying pressure to seal container 3000 in a tamper-resistant manner such that top portion 3030 cannot be re-opened without damaging the material (e.g. paper, plastic, cardboard, cardstock, etc.) of container 3000 itself. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds can be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device (200) is used to apply compressive pressure to seal container 3000 in a tamper-resistant manner.
[0069] Now referring to FIGS. 22A-22C, tamper-resistant container 4000 includes similar components, functions similarly, and is closeable similar to that of tamper-resistant container 2000, the difference being that tamper-resistant container 4000 includes first handle member 4500a and second handle member 4500b that are configured to allow for carrying of container 4000. Tamper-resistant container 4000 is a paper bag having closed bottom portion 4010, middle portion 4020 configured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion 4030. Container 4000 further comprises front panel 4100, rear panel 4200, first side panel 4300, and second side panel 4400. First handle member 4500a is coupled to front panel 4100, and second handle member 4500b is coupled to rear panel 4200. First strip of adhesive 4130 is deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surface 4110 of front panel 4100. First strip of adhesive 4130 is deposited on upper area 4120 of front panel 4100. Fold line 4140 is formed in upper area 4120 of front panel 4100 at a predetermined location below strip of adhesive 4130. Second strip of adhesive 4230 is deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surface 4210 of rear panel 4200. Second strip of adhesive 4230 is deposited on upper area 4220 of rear panel 4200. First fold line 4240 is formed in upper area 4220 of rear panel 4200 at a predetermined location that is horizontally aligned with fold line 4140 formed in front panel 4100. Second fold line 4250 is formed in upper area 4220 of rear panel 4200 at a predetermined location below first fold line 4240 but above strip of adhesive 4230. Strips of adhesive 4130, 4230 and fold lines 4140, 4240, 4250 are each contained in closeable top portion 4030 of container 4000.
[0070] Still referring to FIGS. 22A-22C, to form and/or seal tamper-resistant container 4000, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) joining together upper areas 4120, 4220 of front and rear panels 4100, 4200, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion 4030; (ii) folding a section of top portion 4030 a first time about fold lines 4140, 4240 until first strip of adhesive 4130 is adjacent to second strip of adhesive 4230; (iii) folding the section of top portion 4030 at least a second time about second fold line 4250 until first strip of adhesive 4130 contacts second strip of adhesive 4230; and (iv) applying pressure to seal container 4000 in a tamper-resistant manner such that top portion 4030 cannot be re-opened without damaging the material (e.g. paper, plastic, cardboard, cardstock, etc.) of container 4000 itself. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds can be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device (200) is used to apply compressive pressure to seal container 4000 in a tamper-resistant manner.
[0071] With reference to FIGS. 23-24 and 25A-25E, tamper-resistant container 5000 is a paper bag having closed bottom portion 5010, middle portion 5020 configured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion 5030. Container 5000 further comprises front panel 5100 in which first slot 5150 is formed, rear panel 5200 in which second slot 5260 is formed, first side panel 5300, and second side panel 5400. First slot 5150 is opposite second slot 5260. First handle member 5500a is coupled to front panel 5100, and second handle member 5500b is coupled to rear panel 5200. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first and second handle members 5500a, 5500b extend through first and second slots 5150, 5260, respectively. First strip of adhesive 5130 is deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surface 5110 of front panel 5100. First strip of adhesive 5130 is deposited on upper area 5120 of front panel 5100. Fold line 5140 is formed in upper area 5120 of front panel 5100 at a predetermined location below strip of adhesive 5130. Second strip of adhesive 5230 is deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surface 5210 of rear panel 5200. Second strip of adhesive 5230 is deposited on upper area 5220 of rear panel 5200. First fold line 5240 is formed in upper area 5220 of rear panel 5200 at a predetermined location that is horizontally aligned with fold line 5140 formed in front panel 5100. Second fold line 5250 is formed in upper area 5220 of rear panel 5200 at a predetermined location below first fold line 5240 but above strip of adhesive 5230. Strips of adhesive 5130, 5230 and fold lines 5140, 5240, 5250 are each contained in closeable top portion 5030 of container 5000.
[0072] Still referring to FIGS. 23-24 and 25A-25E, receipt or label 5600 is looped through first and second slots 5150, 5260 such that adhesive 5610 deposited on receipt or label 5600 contacts itself and further seals container 5000 by making it impossible to re-open container 5000 without destroying label 5600, container 5000, or both. When hand pressure is applied, a bond is formed between the two portions of label 5600 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of label 5600 causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing tool 200 or similar device is used to apply force, a bond is formed between the two portions of label 5600 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of label 5600 causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. In some non-limiting implementations, receipt or label 5600 is similar to receipt/label 400 disclosed herein. In some non-limiting implementations, receipt or label 5600 is similar to receipt/label 1000 disclosed herein.
[0073] Still referring to FIGS. 23-24 and 25A-25E, to form and/or seal tamper-resistant container 5000, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) forming first slot 5150 in front panel 5100, and forming second slot 5260 in rear panel 5200; (ii) joining together upper areas 5120, 5220 of front and rear panels 5100, 5200, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion 5030; (iii) folding a section of top portion 5030 a first time about fold lines 5140, 5240 until first strip of adhesive 5130 is adjacent to second strip of adhesive 5230; (iv) folding the section of top portion 5030 at least a second time about second fold line 5250 until first strip of adhesive 5130 contacts second strip of adhesive 5230; (v) applying pressure to seal container 5000; (vi) looping receipt/label 5600 through first and second slots 5150, 5260 such that adhesive 5610 is facing upwards; (vii) joining adhesive 5610 to itself, and applying pressure to receipt/label 5600 to further seal container 5000 in a tamper-resistant manner such that top portion 5030 cannot be re-opened without damaging container 5000, receipt/label 5600, or both. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds and pressure to receipt/label 5600 can be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device (200) is used to apply compressive pressure to container 5000 and/or label 5600.
[0074] Now referring to FIGS. 26-27, container 6000 is a paper bag having closed bottom portion 6010, middle portion 6020 configured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion 6030. Container 6000 further comprises front panel 6100 in which first slot 6150 is formed, rear panel 6200 in which second slot 6260 is formed, first side panel 6300, and second side panel 6400. First slot 6150 is opposite second slot 6260. When container 6000 is fully closed, first and second slots 6150, 6260 form a handle that allows a user to carry container 6000. First fold line 6140 and second fold line 6145 are formed in upper area 6120 of front panel 3100. First fold line 6240 and second fold line 6245 are formed in upper area 6220 of rear panel 6200. First fold line 6240 is horizontally aligned with first fold line 6140, and second fold line 6245 is horizontally aligned with first fold line 6145.
[0075] Now referring to FIGS. 26-27 and 28A-28D, receipt or label 6500 is looped through first and second slots 6150, 6260 such that adhesive 6510 deposited on receipt or label 6500 contacts itself and further seals container 6000 by making it impossible to re-open container 5000 without destroying label 5600, container 5000, or both. When hand pressure is applied, a bond is formed between the two portions of label 6500 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of label 6500 causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing tool 200 or similar device is used to apply force, a bond is formed between the two portions of label 6500 that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of label 6500 causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. In some non-limiting implementations, receipt or label 6500 is similar to receipt/label 400 disclosed herein. In some non-limiting implementations, receipt or label 6500 is similar to receipt/label 1000 disclosed herein.
[0076] Still referring to FIGS. 26-27 and 28A-28D, to form and/or seal container 6000, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) forming first slot 6150 in front panel 6100, and forming second slot 6260 in rear panel 6200; (ii) joining together upper areas 6120, 6220 of front and rear panels 6100, 6200, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion 6030; (iii) folding a section of top portion 6030 a first time about first fold lines 6140, 6240; (iv) folding the section of top portion 6030 at least a second time about second fold lines 6145, 6245; (v) looping receipt/label 6500 through first and second slots 6150, 6260 such that adhesive 6610 is facing upwards; and (vi) joining adhesive 6510 to itself, and applying pressure to receipt/label 6500 to seal container 6000 in a tamper-resistant manner such that top portion 6030 cannot be re-opened without damaging container 6000, receipt/label 6500, or both. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds and pressure to receipt/label 6500 can be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device (200) is used to apply compressive pressure to container 6000 and/or label 6500.
[0077] In various embodiments and implementations, the strips of adhesive 2130, 2230, 3130, 3230, 4130, 4230, 5130, 5230 can include any of the adhesive materials disclosed herein. In one non-limiting implementation, adhesives 2130, 2230, 3130, 3230, 4130, 4230, 5130, 5230 can be predetermined types of cold seal adhesives. In some additional or alternative implementations, adhesive 2130, 2230, 3130, 3230, 4130, 4230, 5130, 5230 may be permanent a pressure-sensitive adhesives (e.g., acrylic-based or rubber-based), cohesives (e.g., natural rubber or synthetic rubber), remoistenable adhesives (e.g., polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, or dextrin), or repositionable adhesives (e.g., acrylic microspheres or cross-linked acrylic).
[0078] In various embodiments and implementations, the label is either coated, matte, or offset paper. In various embodiments and implementations, the receipt is regular paper or thermal paper. Suitable self-seal cohesive and pressure-seal cohesive materials may be obtained from A1 Chemicals (https://a1chemicalsllc.com/), including A1Bond 15-701, which is a self-seal natural rubber latex adhesive; A1Prime 11-446, which is a pressure seal adhesive natural rubber latex; and A1Bond 15-321, which is a pressure seal, non-rubber latex pressure seal adhesive that includes Vinnapas 920 (99%) as a primary ingredient. A suitable repositionable adhesive is CraigStik 3991B1 (acylic microsphere at an average of 25 to 35 micron) from H.B. Fuller: https://www.hbfuller.com/en, which requires a release coat (e.g., Omnova: https://www.omnova.com/) and a primer such as Craigcoat 3991PMR (H.B. Fuller: https://www.hbfuller.com/en). Natural rubbers with acrylic are suitable for some implementations.
[0079] The following patent applications are relevant to the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein and are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety for all purposes: U.S. application Ser. Nos. 17/073,969; 17/199,054; 17/495,918; 17/825,115; 17/825,341; 17/941,138; 17/947,086; 17/947,089; and 18/142,239.
[0080] All literature and similar material cited in this application, including, but not limited to, patents, patent applications, articles, books, treatises, and web pages, regardless of the format of such literature and similar materials, are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety. Should one or more of the incorporated references and similar materials differ from or contradict this application, including but not limited to defined terms, term usage, described techniques, or the like, this application controls.
[0081] As previously stated and as used herein, the singular forms a, an, and the, refer to both the singular as well as plural, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term comprising as used herein is synonymous with including, containing, or characterized by, and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. Although many methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used, particular suitable methods and materials are described herein. Unless context indicates otherwise, the recitations of numerical ranges by endpoints include all numbers subsumed within that range. Furthermore, references to one implementation are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional implementations that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, implementations comprising or having an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional elements whether or not they have that property.
[0082] The terms substantially and about, if or when used throughout this specification describe and account for small fluctuations, such as due to variations in processing. For example, these terms can refer to less than or equal to 5%, such as less than or equal to 2%, such as less than or equal to 1%, such as less than or equal to 0.5%, such as less than or equal to 0.2%, such as less than or equal to 0.1%, such as less than or equal to 0.05%, and/or 0%.
[0083] Underlined and/or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit the disclosed subject matter, and are not referred to in connection with the interpretation of the description of the disclosed subject matter. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various implementations described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be encompassed by the disclosed subject matter. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the above description.
[0084] There may be many alternate ways to implement the disclosed technology. Various functions and elements described herein may be partitioned differently from those shown without departing from the scope of the disclosed technology. Generic principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations. Different numbers of a given module or unit may be employed, a different type or types of a given module or unit may be employed, a given module or unit may be added, or a given module or unit may be omitted.
[0085] Regarding this disclosure, the term a plurality of refers to two or more than two. Unless otherwise clearly defined, orientation or positional relations indicated by terms such as upper and lower are based on the orientation or positional relations as shown in the Figures, only for facilitating description of the disclosed technology and simplifying the description, rather than indicating or implying that the referred devices or elements must be in a particular orientation or constructed or operated in the particular orientation, and therefore they should not be construed as limiting the disclosed technology. The terms connected, mounted, fixed, etc. should be understood in a broad sense. For example, connected may be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection, a direct connection, or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. For one of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the disclosed technology may be understood according to specific circumstances.
[0086] It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in greater detail herein (provided such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being part of the disclosed technology. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are contemplated as being part of the technology disclosed herein. While the disclosed technology has been illustrated by the description of example implementations, and while the example implementations have been described in certain detail, there is no intention to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the disclosed technology in its broader aspects is not limited to any of the specific details, representative devices and methods, and/or illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept.
