The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Aug. 31, 2004
Filed:
Jun. 13, 2002
Zdenek Machacek, Nanuet, NY (US);
Steven Ausnit, New York, NY (US);
Illinois Tool Works Inc., Glenview, IL (US);
Abstract
A reclosable package has a slider-operated zipper and a flexible inner funnel bag that can be turned inside out to provide a spout for dispensing the package contents. Initially, the funnel bag is tucked inside the filled package in an unopened state. The funnel bag can be accessed by moving the slider in the opening direction to open the zipper and then reaching inside the funnel bag. The consumer then grasps a pull-out flap and pulls the funnel bag inside out. Then the tip of the funnel is snipped, cut or torn to provide a opening for dispensing product. The funnel directs the package contents, especially fine powders, away from the reclosable zipper profiles during dispensing so that one or both profiles do not become clogged with matter that might interfere with interlocking. The pull-out flap is formed by inverting and folding a distal portion of the funnel bag. The pull-out flap is preferably spot-sealed in position.