Patent Publication Number: US-2019177042-A1

Title: Bottom-gusseted package and method

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of, and claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 61/734,114, filed Dec. 6, 2012; U.S. Ser. No. 14/034,154, filed Sep. 23, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,272,481, issued Mar. 1, 2016; U.S. Ser. No. 14/266,477, filed Apr. 30, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,126,383, issued Sep. 8, 2015; and Ser. No. 15/815,610, filed Jul. 31, 2015, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention relates generally to packages formed from polymeric film webs, and more particularly to a bottom-gusseted package including a bottom gusset positioned transversely of a longitudinal axis of the package, with the configuration of the package, and its method of formation, permitting use with associated form, fill, and seal equipment. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Packages formed from plastic, polymeric film material have found widespread application in the market place for convenient and efficient packaging of all manner of food and non-food products. Packages of this nature typically are formed by folding and sealing a web of polymeric material to form a package body having front and rear package panels, with the package panels joined to each other at margins thereof. Depending upon the method of formation, the front and rear package panels may be joined to each other either by folded portions of the package body, or at seals (typically heat seals) joining the package panels to each other. 
     Non-gusseted packages of this type are sometimes referred to as “pillow packs”, and do not include either side gussets or top or bottom gussets. However, for many applications it is desirable to form a gusseted package that is, providing the package with inwardly-extended, pleat-like gussets at one or more margins of the package body. For example, side-gusseted packages include inwardly extending side gussets at opposite lateral sides of the package body, which side gussets join respect lateral edges of the front and rear package panels to each other. 
     For some applications, it is especially desirable to provide a bottom-gusseted package, that is, a package having an inwardly extending gusset at the bottom of the package body. By virtue of the breadth and stability provided by the bottom gusset, packages of this nature can frequently be configured to be self-standing, promoting efficient display for consumer selection. 
     Heretofore, bottom-gusseted packages have typically been formed by pleating a web of polymeric material in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the web. Suitable ploughs and forming guides shape and configure the polymeric web as it moves longitudinally, including formation of a continuous, inwardly extending bottom gusset in the web material. Subsequently, suitable seals are formed transversely of the web to define individual package bodies, each including front and rear package panels, with each including a bottom gusset. Individual package bodies are formed by cutting the web of material at the transversely extending seals, with the contents of each package deposited therein either before or after cutting of the web into individual packages. Formation of an upper seal, at the margin of the folded polymeric web opposite the bottom gusset, closes and seals each package body. By this formation technique, the bottom gusset has a width that corresponds to and is the same as the width of the front and rear package panels. 
     As will be appreciated by this typical formation technique, the height or vertical dimension of each package body is approximately equal to one-half of the width of the polymeric web, less the dimension of the bottom gusset. As a consequence, the maximum height of any package being formed is essentially limited by the maximum width of the web of polymeric material which the forming equipment is capable of handling. 
     The present invention contemplates a bottom-gusseted package, and a method of formation, which addresses the shortcomings in the conventional forming of bottom-gusseted package. In essence, this is achieved by forming each package with a bottom gusset positioned transversely of the longitudinal axes of the polymeric film web and each package. The bottom-gusseted packages of any selected height can be readily and efficiently formed. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A bottom-gusseted package embodying the principles of the present invention comprises a package body formed from a flexible web having a longitudinal axis. The flexible web is folded to define a front package panel and a rear package of the package body. The front and rear package panels are joined to each other at respective lateral side margins of the package body, with the flexible web being joined to itself along a seam which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the flexible web. 
     Notably, a package formed in accordance with the present invention includes a bottom gusset positioned between the front and rear package panels, with the bottom gusset extending upwardly and inwardly from the lower edges of the front and rear package panels. By formation of the present package in accordance with the present invention, the bottom gusset is positioned within the package body transversely of the longitudinal axis of the package body, and transversely of the longitudinal axis of the flexible web from which the package body is formed. As a consequence, a package body can be very efficiently formed at any selected height, without necessarily being limited by the width of the flexible web from which the package is formed. 
     Notably, the versatility of the method of package formation in accordance with the present invention permits formation of a bottom-gusseted package in different configurations. In one illustrated embodiment, a bottom-gusseted package is formed which includes a recloseable fastener assembly at the upper portion of the package. In alternative embodiments, a bottom-gusseted package is formed with a top sleeve portion generally opposite the bottom gusset, wherein the top sleeve portion can be configured to include a dispensing feature, or an upper package seal. However, it is within the purview of the present invention that the invention be practiced for forming packages with a bottom gusset only, without a top sleeve portion. 
     The present bottom-gusseted package can be formed by folding the flexible web of material generally at the longitudinal axis thereof, and joined lateral margins of the flexible web providing a seam at one side edge of the package. The bottom gusset of the package thus extends generally between the longitudinal axis of the web of material and the package seam. In alternative embodiment, a bottom-gusseted package is formed with the seam at which the web material is joined to itself is positioned in the rear package panel. By virtue of the formation technique, the bottom gusset of the package extends less than the width of the front and rear package panels. 
     The method of formation of a bottom-gusseted package in accordance with the present invention comprises the steps of providing flexible web of material having a longitudinal axis. Suitable polymeric material can be employed by virtue of its liquid-impermeable characteristics, and heat-sealing capabilities. 
     Together with a flexible web of material, the present method contemplates that a flexible, sleeve-forming web is provided. The sleeve-forming web is folded and generally tubular, and can be configured to include a series of recloseable fastener assemblies, a series of upper package seal, or other features. It is presently preferred that an inside surface of the folded, sleeve-forming web does not heat-seal to itself, thus facilitating formation of a bottom gusset which spreads or opens to permit the packages being formed to be generally self-standing. The specific composition of the materials from which the package body and bottom gusset are formed can be selected as appropriate for specific applications. For example, the sleeve-forming web, which forms the bottom gussets, can be made from a material which is different than the flexible web which forms the package body. 
     The present method further comprises the step of cutting the flexible, sleeve-forming web into a plurality of individual sleeves, each having a folded, generally tubular configuration. The individual sleeves are next joined to the flexible web in spaced apart relationship longitudinally of the flexible web, transversely of the longitudinal axis of the flexible web. The spacing between individual sleeves corresponds to the length of each of the bottom-gusseted packages being formed. Notably, as will be further described, in some of illustrated embodiments each individual sleeve eventually forms the bottom gusset of one package, and the top sleeve portion of an adjacent one of the packages being formed. In other embodiments, packages are formed such that each individual sleeve is positioned within a respective package, and does not span or extend between adjacent packages. Efficient formation is thus promoted. 
     After the individual sleeves are joined to the flexible web, the flexible web is folded and joined along lateral margins thereof to form a generally tubular, folded flexible web. The individual sleeves are positioned generally within the folded flexible web, in spaced apart relationship. Folding of the flexible web material forms a package body for each of the bottom-gusseted packages, with each package body including a front package panel and a rear package panel joined at opposite side margins thereof. 
     Next, the folded flexible web is cut at intervals each corresponding in length to the length of each of the bottom-gusseted packages being formed. By this cutting step individual packages are formed so that each individual sleeve provides a bottom gusset for each one of the packages. 
     In some of the illustrated embodiments, the cutting step includes cutting through each of the individual sleeves positioned within the folded flexible said cutting step includes cutting through each of said individual sleeves so that a portion of each individual sleeve provides: (1) the bottom gusset for one of the packages being formed, and (2) a top sleeve portion for an adjacent one of said packages being formed. Alternatively, the individual sleeves are positioned generally within the folded, flexible web, with the individual sleeves providing the bottom gusset for a respective one of the packages being formed. 
     Efficient package formation is promoted by configuring each of the individual sleeves to have a length which is less than the width of the folded web of flexible material. This facilitates formation of the bottom gusset with a width less than the width of the package, which desirably permits formation of side seals between the front and read package panels of each package at opposite side edges of the bottom gusset of the package. Each of these side seals overlaps a respective end of the bottom gusset of the package. Such side seals can be formed of a sufficient width to permit the package to be readily self-standing and stable. 
     In accordance with the illustrated embodiments, the present method includes joining each of the individual sleeves to the folded flexible web prior to the step of cutting the folded flexible web. 
     In accordance with one illustrated embodiment, each top sleeve portion is provided with a recloseable fastener positioned within the respective top sleeve portion. Each recloseable fastener comprises a pair of fastening elements respectively joined to confronting inside surfaces of each top sleeve portion. The fastener elements may comprise profile fastener elements, adhesive fastener components, hook-and-loop style fastener components, “unisex” self-engaging fastener components, and other releasable fastener arrangements as are known in the art. 
     In another embodiment, each top sleeve portion is provided with an upper seal for closing a respective one of the packages being formed. In the presently preferred practice of this embodiment, the upper seal is formed between inturned edges of the respective top sleeve portion. 
     As noted, the present method can be practiced such the step of folding the flexible web of material which forms the packages includes folding the flexible web generally at the longitudinal axis thereof, so that each of the individual sleeves extends generally between the longitudinal axis and the joined lateral margins of the flexible web of material. The resultant bottom gusset for each package thus extends generally between the longitudinal axis and the joined lateral margins at the seam at which the web of material is joined to itself, and the side edge of the package. Alternatively, the web of material can be folded and joined to itself such the package seam is positioned in the rear package panel. 
     An important aspect of the preferred practice of the invention promotes efficient, high-speed formation. Specifically, the present method includes intermittently advancing flexible web of material after the individual sleeves have been joined thereto, wherein the flexible web of material is advanced with a tolerance range of dimension T LD . This tolerance range is dependent upon the specific operational parameters of the forming apparatus, such as the associated form, fill, and seal machine. Notably, the present method includes forming top and bottom end seals in adjacent ones of the packages being formed by operation of a pair of heat sealing jaws, wherein the spacing between the end seals of adjacent ones of the packages is at least two times T LD . This ensures proper sealing of the ends of each package, with each bottom gusset properly sealed and configured to open or splay for providing the desired interior volume to the package, and desired self-standing characteristics. This spacing can further be selected to accommodate the range in variation of the longitudinal positioning of each of the individual sleeves on the flexible web of material. 
     As noted, it is presently contemplated that the folded sleeve-forming web from which the bottom gussets are formed has an inside surface of which does not heat-seal to itself. Since package formation, and advancement through the form, fill and seal machine can sometimes orient the bottom gusset in the “leading” direction, in can be desirable to close the individual sleeves against opening during such advancement. This can be achieved by closing each of the individual sleeves prior to joining the individual sleeves to the flexible web of material by temporarily joining an inside surface of each of individual sleeves. 
     Thus, a recloseable package configured in accordance with the present comprises a package body formed from a flexible web having a longitudinal axis, with the flexible web being folded to define a front package panel and a rear package panel of said package body. The front and rear package panels are joined to each other at respective lateral side margins of the package body, with the flexible web being joined to itself along a seam which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the flexible web. 
     The present package further includes a bottom gusset positioned between the front and rear package panels, with the bottom gusset extending less than the width of the front and rear package panels. Laterally opposite side seals, that join the front and read package panels to each other at the respective lateral side margins of said package body, each overlap a respective end of said bottom gusset. 
     In one embodiment, the flexible web from which the package body is formed is folded generally at the longitudinal axis thereof, with bottom gusset extending generally between the longitudinal axis, and the joined lateral margins at the package seam at which web of material is joined to itself. Alternatively, the seam at which the web of material is joined to itself is positioned in the rear package panel. 
     Other features and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a bottom-gusseted package, configured as a recloseable package, embodying the principles of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view similar to  FIG. 1 , with portions of the package cut away to illustrate the bottom gusset and recloseable fastener of the package; 
         FIG. 3  is a diagrammatic view illustrating formation of the package shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view taken generally along lines  4 - 4  of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a diagrammatic view further illustrating formation of a recloseable, bottom-gusseted package; 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view taken generally along lines  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 6 a    is a cross-sectional view taken generally along lines  6   a - 6   a  of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 6 b    is a cross-sectional view taken generally along lines  6   b - 6   b  of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 6 c    is a cross-sectional view similar to  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a diagrammatic view further illustrating formation of the present package, including cutting into individual packages; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a bottom-gusseted package, including an upper package seal, configured in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view, partially cut away, of the embodiment of the bottom-gusseted package shown in  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a bottom-gusseted package, including an upper package seal, configured in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view, partially cut away, of the embodiment of the bottom-gusseted package shown in  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a bottom-gusseted package, embodying the principles of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view similar to  FIG. 12 , with portions of the package cut away to illustrate the bottom gusset of the package; 
         FIG. 14  is a diagrammatic view illustrating formation of the package shown in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , in accordance with the present invention; 
         FIG. 15  is a diagrammatic view further illustrating formation of a recloseable, bottom-gusseted package; and 
         FIG. 16  is a view illustrating features for facilitating formation and filling of packages made in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described the presently preferred embodiments, with the understanding that the present disclosure should be considered as an exemplification of the invention, and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated. 
     U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,909,017, 4,617,683, 5,902,047, 6,971,794, and 8,182,407, illustrate various package constructions and formation methods, and are all hereby incorporated by reference. 
     With reference first to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , therein is illustrated a bottom-gusseted package  10  embodying the principles of the present invention. As will be further described, bottom-gusseted package  10  is configured to facilitate formation and filling on an associated, so-called form, fill and seal packaging machine, as is known in the art. Typically, the present invention can be practiced by partial formation of the present package as a rolled web of flexible, polymeric film material, with individual sleeves positioned thereon, which is supplied to the form, fill and seal apparatus. The formation of each package is completed attendant to filling of each of the packages with the desired quantity of product. 
     In this embodiment, bottom-gusseted package  10  is configured as a recloseable package, and includes a recloseable fastener at an upper portion of the package. Notably, and as will be further described, package  10  is formed by joining a plurality of individual sleeves to an associated web of flexible material, in spaced apart relationship along the longitudinal axis of the flexible web. Attendant to package formation, each individual sleeve can be cut as individual packages are formed, with each individual sleeve providing a bottom gusset in one package, and a top sleeve portion, including a recloseable fastener, and/or other package features, in an adjacent one of the packages being formed. However, as will be further described, the present invention can be practiced without cutting of the individual sleeves, which are configured to provide a bottom gusset for each package being formed. 
     With further reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the bottom-gusseted package  10  illustrated therein includes a package body  12  formed from a flexible film web having a longitudinal axis, wherein the flexible web has been folded to define a front package panel  14  (shown facing rearwardly in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ) and a rear package panel  16  of the package body  12 . The front and rear package panels  14  and  16  are joined to each other at respective lateral side margins of the package body  12 . In the illustrated embodiment, the front and rear package panels are joined to each other where the flexible film web from which the body is formed has been folded. The flexible film web from which the package body  12  is formed is joined to itself along a longitudinal seam  18  which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the flexible web. While seam  18  has been illustrated generally at the middle of rear package panel  16 , the flexible web can otherwise be joined to itself, such as at along one of the lateral side margins of the package body. 
     In accordance with the present invention, package  10  includes a bottom gusset  20  which is positioned between the front and rear package panels  14  and  16 , and which extends upwardly and inwardly from lower edges of the front and rear package panels. As will be further described, the pleat-like bottom gusset  20  is formed from a sleeve of material which is positioned within the flexible web from which the package body is formed, with the sleeve of material cut attendant to formation of individual packages. 
     The bottom gusset  20  is joined to and integrated with the package body by a pair of side seals  22  at opposite lateral margins of the package body, and a pair of end seals  23  which respectively join the edges of the bottom gusset  20  to the front and rear package panels  14  and  16 . It is presently contemplated that the bottom gusset  20  be configured to have a width less than that of the package  10 , which permits the formation of side seals to join the front and rear package panels to each other. This permits the formation of a stable and self-standing package, by closing the opposite ends of the bottom gusset. This can be desirable if the inwardly facing surfaces of the bottom gusset do not heat-seal to each other. In previous bottom gusseted packages, the bottom gusset typically extends the full width of the package, so that the length of the gusset is same as the width of the front and rear package panels. 
     In accordance with this illustrated embodiment, the bottom-gusseted package  10  is configured for recloseable use. To this end, the package  10  includes a top sleeve portion  24  positioned between the front and rear package panels  14  and  16 , at the upper end of the package body  12 . The top sleeve portion  24  preferably includes a sleeve seal  26 , which may be configured as a so-called “peel seal”, or otherwise configured for separation attendant to initial opening of the package. The top sleeve portion  24  can be otherwise configured to permit access to the contents of the package through the top sleeve portion, such as by the provision of a preferentially weakened region. The top sleeve portion  24  is joined to and integrated with the package body  12  by side seals  28  joining respective opposite ends of the sleeve portion  24  to the package body generally at opposite, lateral side margins thereof. A pair of top seals  30 , respectively join the pair of legs or flanges of the top sleeve portion  24  to the front and rear package panels  14 ,  16 . 
     In this embodiment, the top sleeve portion  24  includes a recloseable fastener  32 . The recloseable fastener includes first and second fastener elements configured for releasable securement to each other, with the fastener elements respectively joined to the legs or flanges of the top sleeve portion  24 . Thus, the sleeve portion  24  provides first and second mounting flanges for the first and second fastener elements, with the flanges respectively positioned inwardly of and joined to the front and rear package panels. 
     As will be appreciated, access to the contents of the package  10  is provided via the top sleeve portion  24  and recloseable fastener  32 . For opening, the legs or flanges of the top sleeve portion  24  are separated, and the first and second fastener elements of the recloseable fastener  32  separated. For initial opening of the package, the sleeve seal  26  is opened and separated, with access to the interior of the package  10  thus provided. By merely pressing the sleeve portion  24  together, and urging the components of the recloseable fastener  32  together, the package  10  can be easily reclosed. As illustrated in  FIGS. 6 a   - 6   c,  for some applications in can be desirable to provide and an additional sleeve seal  27 , positioned on the side of the fastener  32  generally opposite sleeve seal  26 . Sleeve seal may also comprise a so-called “peal seal”, and is eventually positioned between the mounting flanges for the fastener  32  provided by the opposite legs of the legs of the sleeve portion  24 . Sleeve seal  27  can provide tamper-evidence to provide visually discernible evidence of the initial opening to the recloseable package  10 . 
     Recloseable fastener  32  preferably comprises a pair of interlocking profile fastener elements. Such fastener elements may be identically configured, or complementary. Adhesive fastener components, hook-and-loop fastener components, “unisex” self-engaging fastener components, or like recloseable fastening arrangements can be employed for the recloseable fastener  32 . 
     For package formation, a flexible web  40  preferably comprising heat-sealable polymeric material is provided, with a flexible web typically advanced in a direction along its longitudinal axis web  40 . Formation of the present bottom-gusseted package is further effected by providing a flexible, sleeve-forming web  42 , also preferably comprising suitable polymeric, heat-sealable material. The composition of the sleeve-forming web can differ from the flexible web  40  for forming the package of the body, as may be desired. By way of example, the sleeve-forming material can be selected to exhibit certain gas permeability characteristics, or even be perforated, which can be desirable for some types of packaging. Perforated plastics allow gas exchange and prevent excess humidity, while solid plastics create a better product seal for modifying atmosphere and reducing available oxygen respiration and ripening, thus extending product shelf life. 
     It is presently contemplated that only one side of the sleeve-forming web be heat-sealable, so that the inside surface of the folded, sleeve-forming web does not heat seal to itself. This permits the eventual opening and spreading of the legs of the bottom gusset  20  so that the package  10  can assume a generally self-standing orientation. 
     As shown on  FIG. 4 , the sleeve-forming web  42  may be provided with a tubular configuration, including the sleeve seal  26  releasably joining lateral edges of the sleeve-forming web. In this embodiment, the sleeve-forming web is provided with recloseable fasteners  32 , which may be provided in either continuous form, or as segmented, pre-cut lengths. As illustrated, the recloseable fastener elements are positioned generally within the sleeve-forming web  42 , preferably in interconnected relationship. 
     As further illustrated, individual sleeves  44  are cut from the sleeve-forming web  42 , and are positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis of the flexible web  40  from which the package body is formed. For some applications, it can be desirable to seal the ends of each individual sleeve  44 , such as with suitable adhesive. The individual sleeves  44  are joined to the flexible web  40  in spaced apart relationship longitudinally of the web  40 . The spacing between the individual sleeves  44  corresponds to the length of each of the bottom-gusseted packages  10  being formed. The ends of each sleeve  44  are joined, such as by heat-sealing, to the web  40 , by end seals  43  ( FIG. 6 a   .) Transverse seals  45  can also be formed between the web  40  and the sleeve  44  extending generally parallel to fastener  32  along opposite side margins thereof ( FIG. 6 b   .) 
     After each of the individual sleeves  44  is joined to the flexible web  40 , the flexible web is folded and the lateral margins thereof joined together to form a folded flexible web (see  FIGS. 5 and 6 ). In this way, a package body is formed for each of the bottom-gusseted packages. By folding of the flexible web  40 , the front and rear package panels  14  and  16  of each package are formed. The folded flexible web  40  can be joined to itself so as to form bag seam  18 , with the front and rear package panels joined to each other at the folded, lateral margins of the folded web. As illustrated, the individual sleeves  44  are positioned within the folded flexible web  40 . 
     Notably, the present invention contemplates that in this embodiment, each individual sleeve  44  spans and extends between two adjacent ones of the packages being formed, with subsequent cutting of the flexible web into individual packages resulting in each individual sleeve  44  providing a bottom gusset  20  for one package, and a top sleeve portion  24  for an adjacent one of the packages.  FIG. 6  illustrates the manner in which each individual sleeve  44  extends between adjacent ones of the packages, with  FIG. 7  illustrating cutting of the folded flexible web  40  transversely of its longitudinal axis to form individual packages, including cutting through each sleeve portion  44  to form a bottom gusset  20  for one package, and a top sleeve portion  24  for an adjacent package, It is presently contemplated that formation in this manner can be effected, if desired, during packaging on a form, fill, and seal machine, or that individual packages can be formed for subsequent filling. Depending upon the specific formation technique, side seals  22  and  28  are typically formed prior to filling, with one of end seals  23 ,  30  formed after the contents of each package have been positioned therein. 
       FIG. 6 c    illustrates an example of dimensioning of the bottom gusset of the present package, and the manner in which it is configured to accommodate the typical operating parameters of a vertical form, fill and seal machine. As will be recognized by those familiar with the art, this type of machine intermittently advances packaging material through the machine, with typical variation with respect to the web-cutting apparatus being plus/minus 0.25 inches, Thus, as shown in  FIG. 6 a   , a typical sleeve portion  44  can be provided with a folded width of approximately 3 inches, with seals formed joining each sleeve portion  44  to the web  40 . These seals would typically each have a 1.0 inch dimension. When the web is cut, the cut can be formed at the center of this 1.0 inch seal, so that seals each having a width of 0.5 inches are formed. However, because of the typical variation in the operation of the apparatus, i.e. plus/minus 0.25 inches, the exact dimensions of the bottom gusset  20  and top sleeve portion  24  can vary from one package to another. As will be appreciated, this dimensioning is meant to be illustrative, but it will be recognized that the present invention can readily be practiced to accommodate this typical cutting position variation of a vertical form, fill and seal machine. 
     With reference now to  FIG. 8-11 , therein is illustrated a further alternate embodiment of the present bottom-gusseted package, designated  110 . In most respects, bottom-gusseted package  110  is like the previously-described package  10 , with the exception that the top sleeve portion  124  of each package is configured to provide an upper package seal instead of a recloseable fastener assembly. In this embodiment, elements corresponding to the previously described package  10  are designated by like reference numerals in the 100-series. 
     With reference now to  FIG. 8-11 , the bottom-gusseted package  110  illustrated therein includes a package body  112  formed from a flexible film web having a longitudinal axis, wherein the flexible web has been folded to define a front package panel  114  (shown facing rearwardly in  FIGS. 12 and 13 ) and a rear package panel  116  of the package body  112 . The front and rear package panels  114  and  116  are joined to each other at respective lateral side margins of the package body  112 . In the illustrated embodiment, the front and rear package panels are joined to each other where the flexible film web from which the body is formed has been folded. The flexible film web from which the package body  112  is formed is joined to itself along a longitudinal seam  118  which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the flexible web. While seam  118  has been illustrated generally at the middle of rear package panel  116 , the flexible web can otherwise be joined to itself, such as at along one of the lateral side margins of the package body. 
     In accordance with the present invention, package  110  includes a bottom gusset  120  which is positioned between the front and rear package panels  114  and  116 , and which extends upwardly and inwardly from lower edges of the front and rear package panels. As previously described, the pleat-like bottom gusset  120  is formed from a sleeve of material which is positioned within the flexible web from which the package body is formed, with the sleeve of material cut attendant to formation of individual packages. 
     The bottom gusset  120  is joined to and integrated with the package body by a pair of side seals  122  at opposite lateral margins of the package body, and a pair of end seals  123  which respectively join the edges of the bottom gusset  20  to the front and rear package panels  114  and  116 . 
     The package  110  further includes a top sleeve portion  124  positioned between the front and rear package panels  114  and  116 , at the upper end of the package body  112 . The top sleeve portion  124  preferably is provided with an upper seal  125 , preferably formed between inturned edges of the upper sleeve portion  124 . This seal  125 , may be configured as a so-called “peel seal”, or otherwise configured for separation attendant to initial opening of the package. The top sleeve portion  124  can be otherwise configured to permit access to the contents of the package through the top sleeve portion, such as by the provision of a preferentially weakened region. The top sleeve portion  124  is joined to and integrated with the package body  112  by side seals  128  joining respective opposite ends of the sleeve portion  124  to the package body generally at opposite, lateral side margins thereof. A pair of top seals  130 , respectively join the pair of legs or flanges of the top sleeve portion  124  to the front and rear package panels  114 ,  116 . 
       FIGS. 14 and 15  illustrate a modified form of the embodiment of the present bottom-gusseted package illustrated in  FIGS. 12 and 13 . In this modified form of the package  110 , the package includes a bottom gusset  120 , but includes a modified top sleeve portion  124 ′ which is positioned above an end seal  125 ′ of the package formed by joining the front and rear package panels  114 ,  116  to each other. By virtue of the top sleeve portion having a width less than the width of the package, side seals  128  are provided at respective opposite ends of the sleeve portion  124 ′. 
     This form of the present package can be formed attendant to formation of a package having a bottom gusset, without the need to form a top gusset or other structure at the top of the package. Given the normal manufacturing variations noted above on a vertical form, fill and seal apparatus, formation of a packages with bottom gussets only could in some instances result in packages have a sleeve portion  124 ′ such as illustrated in  FIGS. 14 and 15 . Specifically, in some instances, the individual sleeve forming the bottom gusset of the package would be positioned so that the sleeve would not be cut, and no portion of the sleeve would extend from the bottom gusset of one package to provide a sleeve portion of an adjacent package after cutting of individual packages. In other instances, the individual sleeve would be positioned so that cutting results in formation of the desired bottom gusset for one package, with a top sleeve portion such as  124 ′ formed in an adjacent package. The top sleeve portion  124 ′ is confined generally within the end seal formed by side seals  128 , and end seal  125 ′ joining the front and rear package panels below the end of sleeve material that is in the top seal of the package. 
     By way of example, using the typical +/−¼″ variation of the typical vertical form, fill and seal (VFFS) machine, if each package end seal is ¾″, one extreme case would be that the gusset is only in the bottom of one package and no sleeve material in the top of the adjacent package. The other extreme would be having ½″ of sleeve material, i.e., top sleeve portion  124 ′, in the top of the adjacent package, but there still would be a ¼″ end seal  125 ′ below the sleeve material to seal off the top of the package. The effect is that the top of the package would appear to not have any sleeve material in the top of any of the packages because the end seal would hide it. 
     With reference now to  FIG. 12-15 , therein is illustrated a further embodiment of the present bottom-gusseted package, designated  210 . In many respects, bottom-gusseted package  210  is like the previously-described package  10 . However, package  210  differs in that the package is provided with a bottom gusset but without a top sleeve portion, since formation is preferably effected without cutting the individual sleeves which respectively form the bottom gusset of each package. In this embodiment, elements corresponding to the previously described package  10  are designated by like reference numerals in the 200-series. 
     With further reference to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , the bottom-gusseted package  210  illustrated therein includes a package body  212  formed from a flexible film web having a longitudinal axis, wherein the flexible web has been folded to define a front package panel  214  and a rear package panel  216  of the package body  212 . The front and rear package panels  214  and  216  are joined to each other at respective lateral side margins of the package body  212 . In the illustrated embodiment, the front and rear package panels are joined to each other where the flexible film web from which the body is formed has been folded generally at its longitudinal axis, at one side edge of the package. The flexible film web from which the package body  212  is formed is joined to itself along a longitudinal seam  18  which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the flexible web, While seam  218  has been illustrated generally at the lateral, side edge of the package, opposite the fold formed along the longitudinal axis, the flexible web can otherwise be joined to itself, such as along a longitudinal seam  218 ′ positioned in the rear package panel  216 , as shown in phantom line in  FIG. 13 . 
     In accordance with the present invention, package  210  includes a bottom gusset  220  which is positioned between the front and rear package panels  214  and  216 , and which extends upwardly and inwardly from lower edges of the front and rear package panels. As will be further described, the pleat-like bottom gusset  220  is formed from a sleeve of material which is positioned within the flexible web from which the package body is formed. 
     The bottom gusset  220  is joined to and integrated with the package body by a pair of side seals  222  at opposite lateral margins of the package body. In the illustrated embodiment, one of the side seals  222  coincides with, and can be provided by, the longitudinal seam  218  of the package  210 . For some applications, it may be desirable to form side seals  222 , adjacent bottom gusset  220 , which do not extend the full length of the package. A pair of bottom end seals  223  respectively join the edges of the bottom gusset  220  to the front and rear package panels  214  and  216 , to provide a bottom seal for the package, with the upper edge portions of the front and rear package panels joined at a heat-sealed top end seal  230 . By virtue of the formation technique, the bottom gusset  220 , including those portions of the gusset sealed at the side seals  222 , extends less than the width of the front and rear package panels  214 ,  216 . 
     As will be appreciated, access to the contents of the package  210  can be provided configuring the package to include a suitable preferentially weakened region, such as a score line or the like. For some applications, it can be desirable to provide the front panel of the package with a recloseable fastener assembly, such as disclosed in the afore-mentioned patents. Other suitable opening arrangements can be provided as may be desired. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 14 and 15 , formation of the bottom-gusseted package  210  will be described. For package formation, a flexible web  240  preferably comprising heat-sealable polymeric material is provided, with a flexible web typically advanced in a direction along its longitudinal axis. Formation of the present bottom-gusseted package is further effected by providing a flexible, sleeve-forming web  242 , also preferably comprising suitable polymeric, heat-sealable material. The composition of the sleeve-forming web can differ from the flexible web  240  for forming the package of the body, as may be desired. It is presently contemplated that only one side of the sleeve-forming web be heat-sealable, so that the inside surface of the folded, sleeve-forming web does not heat seal to itself. This permits the eventual opening and spreading of the legs of the bottom gusset  220  so that the package  210  can assume a generally self-standing orientation. 
     As shown on  FIG. 14 , the sleeve-forming web  242  may be provided with a tubular configuration. Individual sleeves  244  are cut from the sleeve-forming web  242 , and are positioned transversely of the longitudinal axis of the flexible web  240  from which the package body is formed, For some applications, it can be desirable to close or seal each individual sleeve  244 , such as with suitable adhesive. This can be desirable to maintain the sleeves in a generally closed, flattened configuration, as packages are being formed, including during advancement through the associated form, fill and seal apparatus. 
       FIG. 16  diagrammatically illustrates various contemplated arrangements for closing each of the sleeves  244 , For example, at least one of the ends each sleeve  244  can be closed by suitable adhesive at the inside surface thereof, such as by a bead of adhesive  245 , and a plurality of adhesive dots  245 ′. Alternatively, a central portion of each of the sleeve can be provided with a temporary seal or adhesive  246 . Instead of adhesive, pin-holes seals can be provided to provide the desired closing of each sleeve, with any closing or seal provided at the central portion of each sleeve being temporary in nature so that the resultant gusset can open and splay at intended subsequent to product filling. Other suitable arrangements for closing the sleeves  244  can be employed. 
     The individual sleeves  244  are joined to the flexible web  240  in spaced apart relationship longitudinally of the web  240 . The spacing between the individual sleeves  244  corresponds to the length of each of the bottom-gusseted packages  210  being formed. Each of the sleeves  244  is joined, such as by heat-sealing, to the web  240 , such as by seals provided at the ends of each sleeve. The sleeves  244  can otherwise be joined to the web  240 , with the understanding that the sleeves are to be joined in a manner which does not inhibit the eventual opening and splaying of each sleeve as it becomes the bottom gusset of a resultant package. 
     After each of the individual sleeves  244  is joined to the flexible web  240 , the flexible web is folded and the lateral margins thereof joined together to form a folded flexible web. In this way, a package body is formed for each of the bottom-gusseted packages. By folding of the flexible web  240 , the front and rear package panels  214  and  216  of each package are formed. The folded flexible web  240  can be joined to itself so as to form longitudinal seam  218 , with the front and rear package panels joined to each other at the lateral margins of the folded web. As illustrated, the individual sleeves  244  are positioned within the folded flexible web  240 . 
     It is presently contemplated that formation in this manner can be effected, if desired, during packaging on a form, fill, and seal machine, or that individual packages can be formed for subsequent filling. Depending upon the specific formation technique, side seals  222  are typically formed prior to filling, with each of the side seals overlapping the respective end of the bottom gusset  220 , with one of end seals  223  formed after the contents of each package have been positioned therein. 
     In connection with formation of the bottom end seals  223 , an important aspect of the preferred practice of the invention promotes efficient, high-speed formation. Specifically, the present method includes intermittently advancing the flexible web of material  240  after the individual sleeves  244  have been joined thereto, such as during advancement through the associated form, fill and seal machine. During this process, the flexible web of material is advanced with a longitudinal tolerance range of dimension T LD , that is, is advanced with a precision that varies, plus or minus, by a generally known amount. This specific tolerance range is typically dependent upon the specific operational parameters of the forming apparatus, such as the associated form, fill, and seal machine, with the tolerance range typically increasing at increasing operating speeds. Additionally, it will be appreciated that there can be some inaccuracy in the longitudinal positioning of the individual sleeves  244  on the flexible web of material  240 , with this range of longitudinal variation, which may be zero, designated C LD . 
     Notably, the present method includes forming top and bottom seals end  230 ,  223  in adjacent ones of the packages being formed by operation of a pair of heat sealing jaws  250 , wherein the spacing between the top and bottom end seals of adjacent ones of the packages is equal to or greater than the sum of: (1) two times the tolerance range with which the flexible  240  is advanced (e.g., 2×T LD ), and (2) the range of variation of the longitudinal placement of each sleeve  244  (e.g., C LD .) This is diagrammatically illustrated in  FIG. 15 , which shows the two pairs of heat sealing jaws  250 ,  250  are positioned to provide a dimension D between the end seals  223 ,  230  of adjacent packages, which is equal to or greater this sum. This ensures proper sealing of the ends of each package, with each bottom gusset properly sealed and configured to open or splay for providing the desired interior volume to the package, and desired self-standing characteristics. Thus, the spacing between the top and bottom end seals of adjacent ones of the packages is equal to or greater than two rimes T LD  plus C LD . 
     As will be recognized by those familiar with the art, this type of machine intermittently advances packaging material through the machine, with typical variation with respect to the web-cutting apparatus being plus/minus 0.25 inches. Thus, a typical sleeve portion  244  can be provided with a folded width of approximately 3 inches, with seals formed joining each sleeve portion  244  to the web  240  being of sufficient length and width to accommodate this variation, while still ensuring that a sufficiently large portion of each seal remains, after cutting of the web, to form the bottom end seals  223  and the top seals  230  of the necessary size to ensure package integrity. As will be appreciated, this dimensioning is meant to be illustrative, but it will be recognized that the present invention can readily be practiced to accommodate this typical cutting position variation of a typical forming apparatus. 
     Efficient package formation is promoted by configuring each of said individual sleeves to have a length which is less than the width of the folded web of flexible material. This provides formation of the bottom gusset with a width less than the width of the package, to permit formation of side seals  222  between the front and rear package panels  214 ,  216  of each said package at opposite side edges of the bottom gusset  220  of the package. As noted, each of these sides seals  222  overlaps a respective end of the bottom gusset  220  of the package  210 . 
     The preferred dimensioning of the individual sleeves  244  for formation of respective bottom gussets  220 , and the preferred dimensioning of the side seals  223  joining the front and rear package panels  214 ,  216  is illustrated in  FIG. 14 . As discussed above in connection with end seals of the packages, this preferred dimensioning accommodates manufacturing variations and tolerances. 
     As will be appreciated, the flexible web of material  240  can exhibit some transverse variation in its positioning as it is intermittently advanced, with this transverse tolerance range being designated T TD . Additionally, each of the individual sleeves  244  being positioned transversely of said flexible web of material may exhibit some variation in the positioning transversely of the web of material  240 , with this transverse tolerance range being designated C TD . 
     Given these inevitable minor variations in the manufacturing process, it is contemplated that the width of the package gusset, designated G w , which corresponds to the length of each individual sleeve  244 , be selected to correspond to the width of the front and rear package panels, designated BP w . As shown, this relationship can be stated as the gusset width G w  is less than or equal to: (1) the package panel width BP w , (2) less two times the tolerance range T TD , and (3) less the tolerance range C TD . 
     In turn, the side seals  222  which are formed in each package joining the front and rear package panels  214 ,  216  at opposite side edges of the bottom gusset of the package are dimensioned to ensure the preferred overlapping of the side seals with the opposite ends of the respective bottom gusset. As shown, the width dimension of each side seal, designated G ss , is equal to or greater than: two times the transverse tolerance range T TD , plus the transverse tolerance range C TD . Again, this ensures the preferred overlapping of the side seals with the associated gussets, notwithstanding the normal manufacturing tolerances exhibited by the equipment employed for practicing the present invention. 
     From the foregoing, it will be observed that numerous modifications and variations can be effected without departing from the true spirit and scope of the novel concept of the present invention. It is to be understood that no limitation with respect to the specific embodiments illustrated herein is intended or should be inferred. The disclosure is intended to cover, by the appended claims, all such modifications as fall within the scope of the claims.