Patent Publication Number: US-6669804-B2

Title: Label having tab member and methods for forming, applying and using the same

Description:
CLAIM FOR PRIORITY AND CROSS-REFERENCE TO OTHER APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to and is a divisional of parent application Ser. No. 09/232,553 filed Jan. 18, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,329,324, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to labels, and, more particularly, to self-adhesive labels and methods for forming, applying and using the same. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     In the packaging of certain chemicals and pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer often is required or desires to provide a considerable amount of information concerning the chemical or pharmaceutical. In the case of pharmaceuticals, this is required by government regulations, however, the occasion may also arise, either separate from or in conjunction with government regulations, to provide the doctor, pharmacist or user with instructions on how the product should be used, what the product is, and safety precautions which should be followed in the use of the product. Sometimes the literature, which is generally in the form of folded leaflets, is placed within a box along with the container carrying the chemical or pharmaceutical (referred to as “inserts”). The placement of leaflets within the box is expensive and a cumbersome operation to perform. Also, it is difficult to insure by later inspection that the proper literature has been inserted in the proper package. Almost all products are packaged in outer cartons and many are not compatible with inserts. Further, the use of folded cartons is under scrutiny by environmental groups as involving excessive packaging. In an effort to meet this challenge, many companies are seeking ways to eliminate folding cartons that carry containers inside. 
     A different approach to solving this problem has developed over the last several years in which the folded literature is releasably attached to the face of the container (referred to as “outserts”), either directly to the container itself, or to a base label which, in turn, is secured to the container. The literature may then be removed by the customer. In such cases, the portion of the label remaining must carry both an “identification” of the product (for example, information such as trademark or manufacturer) as well as certain “statutory information” (for example, lot number and expiration date). 
     Thus, in order to meet the objectives of such labeling techniques, certain criteria must be met. First of all, the portion of the label which remains after the folded literature product is removed should contain both the identification of the product and the statutory information concerning the lot number and expiration date. Further, after the literature leaflet is assembled or affixed to the base label, the indicated area for statutory information concerning lot number and expiration date should be accessible for stamping or printing by the pharmaceutical company and visible to the consumer. The folded leaflet portion remains affixed to the label portion until the customer (doctor, pharmacist, consumer) desires its removal. It is critical that the proper literature must be affixed to the proper base label. Finally, all of the above criteria must be accomplished in a manufacturing technique that insures quality and is cost-effective. 
     Examples of labels designed to eliminate the separate base panel are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,207,746 and 5,263,743, each to Jones, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,738,382 to Grosskopf et al., the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. While these labels and similar known label constructions are well suited for many applications, they suffer from certain significant drawbacks and limitations in manufacture, application, use and functionality. 
     Grosskopf et al. &#39;382 discloses a label including a multiple panel leaflet and a laminate cover coextensive with the label. The leaflet includes an extended flap over which indicia such as the lot and expiration date of an associated product may be printed. A tear strip is positioned opposite the extended flap and a tear line is formed in the laminate cover adjacent the extended flap. It has been found that, when the user opens the label by means of the tear strip and pulls the laminate cover and title panel of the leaflet toward the extended flap, there is a tendency for portions of the laminate cover overlying the extended flap and portions of the extended flap to be torn away with the portion of the laminate cover which is intended to be removed. In doing so, critical indicia printed on or over the extended flap may be removed from the product or product packaging. 
     Self-adhesive labels are commonly applied to curved substrates (e.g., bottles) by applying a first end and continuously wiping on, rolling on or otherwise applying the remainder of the label until the opposite end is secured. Often, there is a tendency for the adhesive to be “squeezed” toward the second end. This results in an excessive, localized collection of adhesive which, when the label is fully applied, tends to ooze out from beneath the label. The oozed adhesive may degrade the functionality or aesthetics of the label and the associated product or packaging. 
     Thus, there exists a need for a label which provides for the securement of important indicia to an object such that removal of a portion of the label, for example portions of a leaflet or a laminate cover, will not tend to result in the removal of the important indicia. There also exists a need for an adhesive-type label which minimizes the tendency for the adhesive to ooze from beneath the label when the label is applied to a curved substrate such as a bottle. There exists an additional need for such labels which include multiple panel, extended text leaflets and protective laminate covers. Furthermore, there exists a need for methods for forming such labels which satisfy the regulations and safety concerns associated with the manufacture of labels for pharmaceuticals, chemicals and the like. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide a self-adhesive label which provides for the securement of important indicia to an object such that removal of a portion of the label will not cause removal of the important indicia. 
     It is also an object of the present invention to provide such a label which may include a protective laminate cover. 
     Moreover, it is an object of the present invention to provide such a label which may include a multi-panel leaflet. 
     It is a further object of the present invention to provide a self-adhesive label which minimizes the tendency for adhesive buildup and ooze when the label is applied to a curved substrate such as a bottle. 
     It is yet another object of the present invention to provide methods for forming such labels which satisfy the regulations and safety concerns associated with the manufacture of labels for pharmaceuticals, chemicals and the like. 
     In order to satisfy the foregoing and other objects, the present invention is directed to a self-adhesive label for displaying information. The label includes a leaflet, a tab member, an adhesive layer and a laminate cover. The leaflet has a lower surface and an end edge. The tab member is separately formed from the leaflet. An exposed portion of the tab member is disposed alongside the leaflet adjacent the end edge. The tab member has a lower surface. The adhesive layer includes a first adhesive portion engaging the lower surface of the leaflet and a second adhesive portion engaging the lower surface of the tab member. The laminate cover overlies the upper surface of the leaflet and includes a laminate tab portion overlying the exposed portion of the tab member. The laminate cover is secured to the leaflet and the exposed portion by a laminate adhesive. At least a portion of the leaflet does not overlie the tab member. 
     According to certain preferred embodiments, the leaflet includes a top panel overlying and connected to the bottom panel along a fold, the fold forming the end edge. Preferably, an access tear line is formed in the laminate cover adjacent the fold. The label may further include a removal tear line formed in the laminate cover adjacent an end of the label opposite the access tear line. Preferably, indicia overlies the exposed portion of the tab member. 
     The tab member may include an underlap portion underlying a first portion of the leaflet such that the underlap portion is interposed between the adhesive layer and the first portion and a second portion of the leaflet does not overlie the tab member and engages the adhesive layer. Preferably, the exposed portion of the tab member has a length of at least {fraction (3/16)} inch. Preferably, the underlap portion of the tab member has a length of between about {fraction (1/16)} and ¼ inch. 
     Alternatively, the tab member may have an inner edge positioned substantially immediately adjacent the end edge. Preferably, the exposed portion of the tab member has a length of at least {fraction (3/16)} inch. 
     As a further alternative, the tab member may have an inner edge spaced apart from the end edge, the inner edge and the end edge defining a gap therebetween. A portion of the laminate cover overlies the gap. Preferably, the gap has a length of between about {fraction (1/32)} and ¼ inch. 
     The present invention is further directed to a method for forming self-adhesive labels using a web, first and second unitary leaflets, each of the leaflets including a bottom panel and an extended flap, and an adhesive. The leaflets are placed onto the web in successive relation such that the leaflets are secured to the web by the adhesive layer. A laminate web and a laminate adhesive are applied over the leaflets and the release liner such that the laminate web is secured to the leaflets by the laminate adhesive. The laminate web and the leaflets are cut to form the labels. The cutting step includes cutting through the laminate web to form a laminate cover overlying each label. The cutting step also includes cutting through the extended flap of the first leaflet such that a first portion of the extended flap thereof remains with the first leaflet and forms a part of a first label and a second portion of the first leaflet extended flap is severed from the first leaflet extended flap and forms a tab member forming a part of a second adjacent label. An exposed portion of the tab member is disposed alongside the second leaflet. 
     The leaflets may be placed in imbricated relation such that a first portion of the extended flap of the first leaflet is interposed between an underlap portion of the bottom panel of the second leaflet and the adhesive layer. The extended flap of the first leaflet is cut at a location spaced apart from the bottom panel of the second leaflet, whereby the tab member forming a part of the second label includes an underlap portion interposed between the bottom panel thereof and the adhesive layer, the second leaflet including a second portion engaging the adhesive layer and not overlying the tab member. 
     Alternatively, the leaflets may be placed such that an end edge of the extended flap of the first leaflet is disposed substantially immediately adjacent an end edge of the second leaflet. 
     Alternatively, the leaflets may be placed such that an end edge of the extended flap of the first leaflet is spaced apart from an adjacent end edge of the second leaflet. The end edges define a gap therebetween. A gap portion of the laminate cover overlies the gap. 
     The method may further include printing indicia on a tab portion of the laminate cover overlying the exposed portion of the tab member. 
     The method may further include forming an access tear line in the laminate cover of the first label adjacent the tab member thereof. A removal tear line may be formed in the laminate cover of the first label adjacent the extended flap of the first label. 
     The present invention is further directed to a method of applying a label as described above of the type having an underlap portion to a curved substrate. Starting with the end of the label opposite the tab member, the label is applied to the substrate in the direction of the end of the label adjacent the tab member. A portion of the adhesive layer is displaced and collects along the inner edge of the tab member and/or between the underlap portion and the leaflet. 
     The present invention is further directed to a method of using a label as described above of the type wherein the leaflet includes a top panel overlying and connected to the bottom panel along a fold line and an access tear line formed in the laminate cover. The label is applied and secured to a substrate by means of the adhesive layer. The laminate cover and the top panel are torn along the access tear line and portions of the laminate cover and the top panel are pulled in the direction of the extended flap and away from the remainder of the label to remove the portions of the laminate cover and the top panel from the label. The tab member is retained with the remainder of the label. 
     The method may further include tearing the laminate cover along a removal tear line formed therein adjacent the extended flap following tearing the laminate cover. Indicia may be printed on the laminate tab portion. The indicia may include a lot identifier and/or an expiration date. 
     The present invention is further directed to a self-adhesive label for displaying information including a leaflet having an end edge, a first portion and a second portion, each of the first and second portions having a respective lower surface. A tab member is separately formed from the leaflet and has a lower surface. The tab member includes an exposed portion disposed alongside the leaflet adjacent the end edge and an underlap portion underlying the first leaflet portion. The underlap portion has an upper surface facing the lower surface of the first leaflet portion. The second leaflet portion does not overlie the tab member. A first adhesive layer is interposed between and secures the upper surface of the underlap portion and the lower surface of the first leaflet portion. A second adhesive layer is provided including a first adhesive portion engaging the lower surface of the tab member and a second adhesive portion engaging the lower surface of the second leaflet portion. 
     The present invention is further directed to a method for forming self-adhesive labels using a web, first and second unitary leaflets, each of the leaflets including a bottom panel and an extended flap, and a base adhesive layer. The leaflets are placed onto the web in successive, imbricated relation such that an underlap portion of the extended flap of the first leaflet is interposed between a first portion of the bottom panel of the second leaflet and the base adhesive layer, whereby the leaflets are secured to the web by the base adhesive layer. The leaflets are cut to form the labels. The cutting step includes cutting through the first leaflet extended flap at a location spaced apart from the bottom panel of the second leaflet such that a first portion of the first leaflet extended flap remains with the first leaflet and forms a part of a first label and a second portion of the first leaflet extended flap is severed from the first leaflet and forms a tab member forming a part of a second, adjacent label, at least an exposed portion of the tab member disposed alongside the second leaflet. The method may further include the step of applying a securing adhesive to at least one of the leaflets such that the underlap portion of the first leaflet extended flap is secured to the first portion of the bottom panel of the second leaflet by the securing adhesive. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a label according to a first embodiment of the present invention disposed on a release liner; 
     FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the label of FIG. 1 secured to a container, a tear strip thereof being partially removed; 
     FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the label of FIG. 1 secured to a container, the tear strip being completely removed and the top panel, a portion of the laminate cover and the first interior panel thereof being partially removed; 
     FIG. 4 is a diagram of an apparatus for forming labels as shown in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, top plan view of the release liner and multiple-up leaflets used to form labels as shown in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 6 is a schematic, side view of the release liner and multiple-up leaflets of FIG. 5, wherein the leaflets and release liner are covered by a laminate web and a cut line is indicated; 
     FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a label according to a second embodiment disposed on a release liner; 
     FIG. 8 is a fragmentary, top plan view of the release liner and multiple-up leaflets used to form labels as shown in FIG. 7; 
     FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a label according to a third embodiment disposed on a release liner; 
     FIG. 10 is a fragmentary, top plan view of the release liner and multiple-up leaflets used to form labels as shown in FIG. 9; 
     FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a label according to a fourth embodiment disposed on a release liner; 
     FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the label of FIG. 11 secured to a container, the top panel, a portion of the laminate cover, and the first interior panel each being partially removed; 
     FIG. 13 is a fragmentary, top plan view of the release liner and multiple-up leaflets used to form labels as shown in FIG. 11; 
     FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a label according to a fifth embodiment disposed on a release liner; 
     FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a label according to a sixth embodiment disposed on a release liner; and 
     FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a label according to a seventh embodiment disposed on a release liner. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout. It will be understood that when an element such as a layer, region or substrate is referred to as being “on” another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on” another element, there are no intervening elements present. 
     With reference to FIGS. 1-3, a label according to a first embodiment of the present invention, generally denoted by the numeral  100 , is shown therein. The label  100  includes a leaflet  101  and a laminate cover  150 . The label  100  is releasably secured to a release liner  102  by a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer  104 . The adhesive layer  104  remains with the label  100  when it is removed from the release liner  102  and serves to secure the label  100  to a container  5  (FIGS.  2  and  3 ). The label  100  includes a discrete, adhesive backed tab member  170  formed separately from and partly underlapping the leaflet  101 , as discussed in more detail below. 
     The leaflet  101  includes a bottom panel  120 , a top panel  130 , a first interior panel  140 , and additional interior panels  142 . The top panel  130  and the bottom panel  120  are joined along a fold  166 . The top panel  130  and the first interior panel  140  are joined along a fold  165 . The top panel  130  includes parallel, spaced apart tear lines  135 A and  135 B formed therein. A tear line  164  is formed along the fold  165  or, alternatively, in the panel  140  adjacent the fold  165 . The top panel  130  includes a marginal portion  132  extending between the fold  166  and adjacent the edge  168  of the interior panel  140 . The bottom panel  120  includes a marginal portion  122  extending between the fold  166  and adjacent the edge  168 . The bottom panel  130  further includes a marginal extended flap  124  extending outwardly beyond the top panel  130 . Suitable title indicia  133  is printed on the upper surface of the top panel  130 . Indicia  127  such as a product description or the like may be printed on the upper surface of the marginal extended flap  124 . As discussed below, the information represented by the indicia  127  preferably is not of the type which must remain with the label following removal of the laminate cover  150 . Indicia  123 , preferably substantially identical to the title indicia  133 , is disposed on the upper surface of the bottom panel  120 . Other suitable indicia  143 , for example, instructions and warnings, are printed on the panels  140 ,  142 . 
     The leaflet  101  is preferably formed from a unitary blank of 60 lbs. coated paper or litho stock. Methods and apparatus for forming the leaflets  101  will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art upon a reading of the foregoing and the following. 
     The tab member  170  is secured to the release liner  102  by a portion of the adhesive  104 . The tab member  170  partly underlaps the leaflet  101 . More particularly, a first portion  176  of the tab member  170  extends from a first end  172  to the end fold  166  of the leaflet  101 . Accordingly, the first portion  176  underlaps a portion  120 A of the bottom panel  120  of the leaflet  101 . A second, exposed portion  178  of the tab member  170  extends outwardly from the leaflet  101  from the fold  166  to a second end  174 . By “exposed”, it is meant that the portion  178  of the tab member  170  is not covered by the leaflet  101  but may be covered by the laminated cover  150 . Notably, the underlapping portion  176  is not adhered to the leaflet  101  and separates the overlying portion  120 A of the leaflet  101  from the adhesive  104 . A remaining portion  120 B of the leaflet  101  does not overlie the tab member  170  and directly engages the adhesive  104 . Suitable indicia  177  such as prompts “LOT:” and “EXP:” for product lot number and expiration date, respectively, may be printed on the tab member exposed portion  178 . 
     The tab member  170  is preferably formed of the same material as the leaflet  101 . Preferably, the tab member  170  is formed of an opaque material. Preferably, the tab member portion  176  has a length U (see FIG. 1) of between about {fraction (1/16)} and ¼ inch, and, more preferably, of between about ⅛ and ¼ inch. Preferably, the portion  178  has a length T of at least {fraction (3/16)} inch, more preferably, of at least ⅜ inch, and, more preferably, of between about ⅜ and ¾ inch. The underlapping portion  176  of the tab member  170  may extend farther beneath the bottom panel  120  than shown in the Figures. Preferably, however, the leaflet portion  120 A which overlies the tab member portion  176  is smaller than the portion  120 B of the leaflet which directly engages the adhesive  104 . 
     The laminate cover  150  overlies the leaflet  101  and the tab member  170  and is secured thereto by a laminate adhesive  152 . More particularly, a laminate portion  154  is secured to the upper surface of the marginal extended flap  124 , a laminate tab portion  156  is secured to the upper surface of the exposed portion  178  of the tab member  170 , and the remainder of the laminate cover  150  is secured to the upper surface of the top panel  130 . Tear lines  155 A and  155 B are formed in the laminate cover  150  overlying the tear lines  135 A and  135 B, respectively, of the top panel  130 . A tear line  158  is formed in the laminate cover  150 , preferably adjacent the fold  165 . Preferably, the laminate cover  150  is coextensive with the label  100 , as shown. 
     The laminate cover  150  is preferably formed from transparent or translucent material such as polypropylene. Suitable laminate materials include, for example, 2 mil polypropylene Product No. 04324 available from Madico, Incorporated of Woburn, Mass. 
     The portion of the laminate cover  150  defined between the tear lines  155 A and  155 B and the portion of the top panel  130  defined between the tear lines  135 A and  135 B together form a tear strip  160 . Preferably, the label  100  is formed such that the tear strip  160  includes a tab  162  to facilitate manipulation of the tear strip. The tear strip  160  lies entirely in a marginal portion  132  and overlies only a marginal portion  122  of the bottom panel  120 . The marginal portions  122 ,  132  are preferably from about 0.1875 to about 0.25 inches wide each. Further, the tear line  135 B is formed from about 0.3125 to about 0.625 inches laterally away from the adjacent edge  168 . 
     With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the label  100  is shown therein secured to a suitable container  5  by the adhesive layer  104 . Prior to manipulation by the end user, the label  100  is positioned in the closed and sealed position of FIG.  1 . In this position, the indicia  127 ,  133  and  177  are visible. If desired, a manufacturer or packager, for example, may print suitable indicia  105  on the upper surface of the laminate cover portion  156 . For example, the manufacturer may, before or at the time of packaging, print the actual lot number and expiration date where prompted by the indicia  177 . 
     When the end user wishes to open the label  100  to inspect the indicia  123  and/or the indicia  143 , he or she may do so by grabbing the tab  162  and pulling the tear strip  160  upwardly and outwardly (as shown in FIG.  2 ), thereby severing the top panel  130  along the tear lines  135 A,  135 B,  155 A, and  155 B. Thereafter, the end user may fold the top panel  130  outwardly as shown in FIG.  3 . Once the label  100  has been opened as described above, the end user may remove the top panel  130  (and the portion of laminate cover  150  adhered thereto) and the interior panels  140 ,  142  by tearing along the tear line  158  of the laminate cover  150 . Alternatively, the end user may remove the interior panels  140 ,  143  by tearing along the tear line  164 , leaving the top panel  130  and the attached portion of the laminate cover  150  with the container  5 . 
     As the user attempts to tear the portion of the laminate cover  150  between the tear lines  155 B and  158  by pulling the laminate cover in a left-to-right direction (as shown in FIGS.  2  and  3 ), the user may inadvertently pull away a portion of the laminate cover portion  154  therewith. That is, the user may pull the laminate cover away with such vigor that the tear line  158  is defeated. In doing so, the user may remove a portion of the indicia  127  (or other indicia printed on the laminate portion  154  or the underlying extended flap  124 ) from the label  100  and the associated product. Accordingly, it is preferred that the indicia provided in these areas be of a type which may be removed from the label without significant adverse consequences, for example, without undermining safety precautions associated with a pharmaceutical product. 
     Information of a more important or critical nature should instead be printed on the tab member portion  178  or the laminate cover portion  156  as appropriate. Notably, and with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, these elements of the label do not face significant risk of inadvertent removal. The removal of the tear strip  160 , in contrast to the removal of the laminate cover, is accomplished by tearing the laminate cover along a direction perpendicular to the length of the label. Accordingly, the tear stresses do not tend to be directed into the laminate cover tab portion  156 . Thus, placement of the indicia  177 ,  105  or other indicia on the tab member portion  178  or the laminate tab portion  156  insures that the indicia will remain with the label and the associated product. 
     A further benefit of the label  100  is that the tab member  170 , which is preferably opaque, provides a consistent backing for printed indicia. In this way, the printable, exposed area of the label  100  is increased. In the absence of the tab member  170 , the visibility of the indicia may depend on the color of the substrate if the laminate cover is transparent or translucent. 
     Yet another benefit of the label  100  relates to the application of the label  100  to a curved substrate such as the bottle  5 . Preferably, the label is applied to the bottle  5  by first applying the end adjacent the extended flap  124  and continuing to roll or wipe the label onto the bottle until the end of the label adjacent the tab member  170  is adhered to the bottle  5 . At least a portion of the adhesive  104  which tends to be squeezed forward during this process is captured along the end edge  172  of the tab member  170  or between the underlapping portion  176  and the bottom panel portion  120 A of the leaflet. By providing a location for the adhesive  104  to accumulate, the tendency for sideward adhesive ooze may be reduced or eliminated. 
     With reference to FIG. 4, an apparatus for forming the labels  100  according to a preferred method of the present invention is shown therein. First, a suitable web  14  is supplied from an unwind station  12 . The web  14  may be a transfer tape such as 3M Product No. 9447, 1 mil High Tenacity Tape with 320 Adhesive. The transfer tape preferably includes the release liner  102  having an adhesive layer of pressure sensitive adhesive on the upper surface thereof. Transfer tapes having a second release liner layer located on the adhesive layer may also be used. Alternatively, the web  14  may be a release liner to which pressure sensitive adhesive is applied, either as patches of adhesive or as a continuous adhesive layer, to the upper surface thereof by an adhesive applicator. The adhesive application step may occur just prior to the application of each leaflet  180  to the web  14 . Alternatively, the adhesive may be applied to the lower surfaces of the leaflets  180 . 
     Alternatively, the web  14  may be a double coated tape consisting of the release liner  102 , a first adhesive layer coating the upper surface of the release liner, a carrier preferably formed from a polymeric material such as polypropylene substrate overlying the first adhesive layer, and a second adhesive layer overlying the carrier. Double coated tape as described may be formed by applying a pressure sensitive adhesive coating to the upper surface of a self adhesive polypropylene substrate disposed on a release liner, such as 3M Scotch Brand Tape Product No. 7214FL 2 mil polypropylene. Double coated tapes having a second release liner layer located on the second adhesive layer may also be used. Double coated tapes having carriers formed from polyester, polystyrene, polyethylene or other polyolefins may be used as well. A suitable product having a polyester carrier is Flexcon Flexmark Product No. DFM-100-Clear V-23/70 D/FK. Notably, if labels are formed from double coated tape as just described, the resulting labels would not be constructed as described in the first embodiment and the further embodiments as discussed below, but rather would include an additional adhesive layer and a carrier interposed between the label as shown and the release liner. 
     As a further alternative, the web  14  may be a pressure-sensitive face stock consisting of a release liner, an adhesive layer coating the upper surface of the release liner, and a web of paper or the like releasably secured to the release liner by the adhesive. Suitable pressure-sensitive face stocks include semi-gloss face stock with S746 adhesive available from Fasson Incorporated of Painesville, Ohio. Pressure-sensitive adhesive corresponding to the adhesive  104  is applied, either as patches of adhesive or as a continuous adhesive layer, to the upper surface of the face stock. Notably, if labels are formed from pressure-sensitive face stock as just described, the resulting labels would not be constructed as described in the first embodiment and further embodiments as discussed below, but rather would include an additional adhesive layer and a base face stock portion interposed between the label as shown and the release liner. 
     With reference to FIG. 5, the leaflets  180  (two of which are designated in FIG. 5 as leaflets  180 A and  180 B) are preferably provided as “multiple-up” leaflets; however, it will be appreciated by the skilled artisan that individual leaflets may be used as well. By “multiple-up leaflet” it is meant a unitary leaflet which is suitably printed with indicia corresponding to multiple individual leaflets such that, when the multiple-up leaflet is properly cut, the multiple up leaflet is severed into multiple, discrete individual leaflets each bearing the desired respective indicia. As shown, each multiple-up leaflet  180 A,  180 B includes three leaflet portions  182 A,  182 B corresponding to individual leaflets  101  and waste strips  184  interposed between the leaflet portions  182 A,  182 B. The leaflets  180  are applied to the web  14  by a leaflet application station  16 . 
     The leaflets  180 A,  180 B are applied consecutively to the web  102  which is conveyed in the direction as indicated by the arrow in FIGS. 5 and 6. Generally, each leaflet  180  has an extended flap (for example, extended flap  186 A of the leaflet  180 A) which is ultimately cut and separated to form the extended flap  124  of one label  100  and the tab member  170  of the following (i.e., downstream), adjacent label  100 . For purposes of explanation, the relative placement of the leaflets  180 A,  180 B will be discussed hereafter; however, each of the adjacent leaflets  180  may be similarly placed, handled and processed. 
     The leaflet  180 A has portions or elements  124 A,  127 A,  130 A, and  165 A which correspond to elements  124 ,  127 ,  130  and  165 , respectively, of a first row (traversing the web  14 ) of labels  100  to be formed. The leaflet  180 A also has elements  170 A,  177 A and  172 A which correspond to elements  170 ,  177  and  172  of the next following row of labels  100  to be formed. The leaflet  180 B also includes elements  130 B and  166 B corresponding to elements  130  and  166  of this next row of labels. 
     The leaflet  180 A is first laid on the release liner  102  and the leaflet  180 B is thereafter laid on the release liner and partly over the leaflet  180 A. In this way, the leaflets  180 A and  180 B are seriated and imbricated such that a portion of the extended flap  186 A of the leaflet  180 A underlaps the leaflet  180 B, including the end fold  166 B thereof. 
     With reference to FIGS. 4 and 6, a self adhesive laminate web  24  is supplied by an unwind station  22  and adhered by a nip roller  26  and the adhesive thereof over the leaflets  180  and the web  14 . A die cut station  30  cuts through the laminate web  24  thereby forming the laminate covers  150 , the leaflets  101  and the tab members  170 . More particularly, the diecut forms cut lines coextensive with the labels  100 . These cut lines include a pair of cut lines C—C (see FIGS. 5 and 6) extending transverse to the length of the web and down to the release liner  102 . While the cut lines C—C are shown as extending fully across the web  14  for clarity, the cut lines preferably do not extend across the entire width of the web  14  or of the laminate web  24 . Rather, the cut lines C—C should stop short of one or both side edges of the laminate web  24  so that the waste matrix as discussed below may be removed as a continuous web. The cut lines C—C separate the extended flap  186 A of the multiple-up leaflet  180 A into the extended flap  124  of a first label  100  and the tab member  170  of the next, downstream label  100 , and form a waste portion  187 A (which includes portions of the leaflet  180 A and the laminate web  24 ) between the cut lines C—C. 
     Each of the tear lines  135 A,  135 B,  155 A,  155 B, and  158  and the tab  162  may be formed by the die cut station  30  or a further die cut station. The tear lines  135 A,  135 B, and  164  may be formed in the leaflet  20  prior to application to the web. Tear lines (not shown) may be formed in the bottom panel underlying the tear lines  135 A and  135 B if desired or to facilitate manufacture. 
     A waste matrix  33  including the portions of the laminate web  24  outside the laminate covers  150 , the waste strips  184 , the waste portions  187 A, and the underlying adhesive  104  are removed by a winding station  32 . The web  14  may be slit into a plurality of release liners  102  and the resulting labels  100  carried on the release liners  102  may then be collected on a roll by a winding station  34  or sheeted and stacked. 
     The method of forming the label  100  as just described provides a substantial benefit in meeting regulatory and safety concerns in the manufacture of certain types of labels, for example, pharmaceutical labels. Because each printed component (the tab member  170  and the leaflet  101 ) are formed from the unitary leaflets  180  which may all be printed in the same manner and as a common batch, there is no risk of inadvertently mismatching dissimilar printed components such as separately printed base portions and leaflets. 
     With reference to FIG. 7, a label  200  according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown therein. The label  200  is releasably adhered to a release liner  202  by a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer  204  and includes a leaflet  201  which is identical to the leaflet  101 . A laminate cover  250  corresponding to the laminate cover  150  is secured to the leaflet and a tab member  270  by means of a laminate adhesive  252 . The tab member  270  has indicia  277  printed on the upper surface thereof. The label  200  differs from the label  100  in that the entirety of the tab member  270  (extending between opposed ends  272  and  274 ) extends outwardly beyond the leaflet  201 . Thus, in this embodiment none of the leaflet  201  overlies the tab member  270 . The end  272  of the tab member  270  is positioned substantially flush with the end fold  266  of the leaflet  201 . The tab member  270  is covered by a laminate portion  256 . The length T of the tab member  270  is preferably the same as discussed above with regard to the length T of the tab member  170 . 
     It will be appreciated that the label  200  may be used in the same manner as the label  100  and will provide similar advantages. 
     The manufacture of the labels  200  may be accomplished in substantially the same manner and using substantially the same apparatus as described above with respect to the labels  100 . The preferred method of manufacturing differs only in the relative placement of the leaflets and the lengths of the extended tabs of the multiple-up leaflets. With reference to FIG. 8, multiple-up leaflets  280 A and  280 B corresponding substantially to the leaflets  180 A and  180 B, respectively, are provided. The leaflets  280 A,  280 B include individual leaflet portions  282 A,  282 B and waste portions  284 . 
     The leaflets are laid on the web  14  in seriatim and end to end. For example, the edge  272 A which forms a part of the extended flap  286 A of the leaflet  280 A and which corresponds to the tab member end  272  of the label  200 , is positioned immediately adjacent the end fold  266 B of the leaflet  280 B, which corresponds to the end fold  266  of the label  200 . In the die cutting step, the extended flap  286 A and the laminate web are cut along the lines C—C of FIG.  8 . The formation of the labels  200  is otherwise the same as described above with respect to the labels  100 . 
     With reference to FIG. 9, a label  300  according to a third embodiment is shown therein. The label  300  is releasably adhered to a release liner  302  by a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive  304 . The label  300  includes a leaflet  301  identical to the leaflet  101  and a laminate cover  350  adhered to each of the leaflet  301 , a tab member  370  and a portion of the adhesive  304  by a laminate adhesive  352 . The tab member  370  is preferably formed of the same materials as described above with regard to the tab member  170 . The tab member  370  has indicia  377  printed on the upper surface thereof. The label  300  differs from the label  100  in that a gap  373  is defined between the edge  372  of the tab member  370  and the end fold  366  of the leaflet  301 . Thus, the tab member is disposed adjacent and spaced apart from the end fold  366 . As a result, a portion  356 A of the laminate tab portion  356  is directly adhered to a portion  304 A of the adhesive  304 . None of the leaflet  301  overlies the tab member  370 . 
     Preferably, the gap length G extending between the end edge  372  and the fold  366  is between about {fraction (1/32)} and ¼ inch and, more preferably, between about ⅛ and ¼ inch. Preferably, the length S of the tab member  370  extending between the first edge  372  and the opposed edge  374  is at least {fraction (3/16)} inch, and more preferably, between about ⅜ and ¾ inch. 
     Label  300  may be advantageous if, on the one hand, it is desired to not have an underlap portion which may add to the thickness of the label adjacent the fold  366 , and, on the other hand, it is desired to provide substantial manufacturing tolerances for placement of the leaflets. The gap may be provided to be sensed by a photosensor for assisting in control of the manufacturing apparatus. The gap may also be provided in order to allow a portion of the container to be visible through the label. 
     With reference to FIG. 10, the labels  300  may be formed in similar fashion to the labels  100 ,  200 . Multiple-up leaflets  380 A and  380 B are provided including individual leaflet portions  382 A and  382 B and waste portions  384 . In this case, the leaflets  380 A,  380 B are applied to the web  14  in seriatim such that the end edge  372 A (which corresponds to the end  372  of the tab member  370 ) of an extended flap  386 A of the leaflet  380 A is spaced from the end fold  366 B (which corresponds to the fold  366  of the label  300 ) of the leaflet  380 B by the gap dimension G. After the laminate web is applied, the laminate web and leaflets are cut to form the labels  300 . The cutting step includes cutting along the lines C—C as shown in FIG.  10 . 
     With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, a label according to a fourth embodiment, generally denoted by the numeral  400  is shown therein. The label  400  includes a leaflet  401  and an overlying laminate cover  450 . The label  400  is releasably secured to a release liner  402  by a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer  404 . Elements  422 ,  423 ,  433 ,  435 A,  435 B,  442 ,  443 ,  450 ,  452 ,  454 ,  455 A,  455 B,  456 ,  460 ,  462 , and  466  of the label  400  correspond to elements  122 ,  123 ,  133 ,  135 A,  135 B,  142 ,  143 ,  150 ,  152 ,  154 ,  155 A,  155 B,  156 ,  160 ,  162 , and  166 , respectively. The label  400  differs from the label  100  as follows. 
     A bottom panel  420  is joined to a first interior panel  440  along a fold  465 . A tear line  464  is formed along a fold  465  or, alternatively, in a first interior panel  440  adjacent the fold  465 . The top panel  430  includes a marginal extended flap  434  which extends outwardly beyond the fold  465  and is coated on its under surface with the adhesive  404 . A tear line  436  is formed in the top panel  430  adjacent the fold  465 . A tear line  458  is formed in the laminate cover  450  and overlies the tear line  436 . Indicia  427  is disposed on the upper surface of the marginal extended flap  434 . Marginal portions  422 ,  432  are defined between the fold  466  and the adjacent edge  468  of the interior panel  440 . 
     A tab member  470  is positioned beneath the laminate cover  450  and opposite the extended flap  434 . The tab member  470  includes elements  472 ,  474 ,  476 ,  477  and  478  corresponding to elements  172 ,  174 ,  176 ,  177  and  178  of the label  100 . The tab member portion  476  underlies a portion  420 A of the bottom panel  420  and a remaining portion  420 B of the bottom panel directly engages the adhesive  404 . As discussed above with regard to the label  100 , the relative sizes of the bottom panel portions and the extent of the underlap may differ from that shown; however, the portion  420 B is preferably greater than the portion  420 A. Preferably, the tab member  470  has dimensions U and T (see FIG. 11) the same as those discussed above with regard to dimensions U and T of the label  100 . 
     With reference to FIG. 12, the label  400  is shown therein secured to a suitable container  5 . As shown in the figure, the tear strip  460  has been removed as discussed above with respect to the label  100 . The top panel  430  (as well as the overlying portion of the laminate cover  450 ) and the first interior panel  440  are shown partially removed. It will be appreciated that the end user is presented with the options of removing the top panel  430  by tearing along the tear line  436  and the tear line  458 , removing the interior panels  440  and  442  by tearing along the tear line  464 , or both. 
     It will be appreciated that the label  400  provides the same advantages as the label  100 . Namely, the tab member  470  provides a location for indicia  477  which is secure from removal, in contrast to the laminate portion  454 , the extended flap  434 , and the indicia  427  thereon. Additionally, the label  400  provides a similar resistance to adhesive ooze and an increased opaque, printable area. 
     The labels  400  may be formed using a method and apparatus similar to those described above with regard to the label  100 . With reference to FIG. 13, multiple-up leaflets  480 A and  480 B are provided including individual leaflet portions  482 A,  482 B and waste strips  484 . The leaflet  480 A has elements or portions  427 A,  430 A,  434 A and  465 A corresponding to elements  427 ,  430 ,  434 , and  465  of a first row of labels  400 . The leaflet  480 A also has elements  472 A and  477 A corresponding to elements  472  and  477  of the next downstream row of labels  400 . The leaflet  480 B includes a fold  466 B corresponding to the fold  466  of the second row of labels  400  to be formed. 
     The leaflets  480 A,  480 B are laid on the web in the same manner as the leaflets  180 A,  180 B except that the extended flap  486 A forms a part of the top panel of the leaflet  480 A rather than a part of the bottom panel. The extended flap  486 A and the laminate web (not shown) are cut along the lines C—C as shown in FIG.  13 . The leaflets  480 A,  480 B and the laminate web are also cut as described above to form the label  400  and waste portions  484  and  487 A which are thereafter removed. 
     The labels  400  may be formed using the same materials as discussed above with respect to the labels  100 . Suitable modifications to the above described apparatus and method for making the labels  100  in order to form the labels  400  will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. 
     With reference to FIG. 14, a label  500  according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is shown therein. The label  500  is releasably adhered to a release liner  502  by a pressure-sensitive adhesive layer  504  and includes a leaflet  501  which is identical to the leaflet  401 . A laminate cover  550  corresponding to the laminate cover  450  is secured to the leaflet and a tab member  570  by means of a laminate adhesive  552 . The tab member  570  has indicia  577  printed on the upper surface thereof. The label  500  differs from the label  400  in that the entirety of the tab member  570  (extending between opposed ends  572  and  574 ) extends outwardly beyond the leaflet  501 . The end  572  of the tab member  570  is positioned substantially flush with the end fold  566  of the leaflet  501 . The tab member  570  is covered by a laminate cover portion  556 . The length T of the tab member  570  is preferably the same as discussed above with regard to the length T of the tab member  470 . 
     The labels  500  may be manufactured in substantially the same manner as described above for the manufacture of the labels  200 . The method for forming the labels  500  differs only in that the multiple-up leaflets are configured and placed on the web such that the extended flaps thereof extend from the top panels instead of the bottom panels. 
     With reference to FIG. 15, a label  600  according to a sixth embodiment is shown therein. The label  600  is releasably adhered to a release liner  602  by a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive  604 . The label  600  includes a leaflet  601  identical to the leaflet  401  and a laminate cover  650  adhered to each of the leaflet  601 , a tab member  670  and a portion of the adhesive  604  by a laminate adhesive  652 . The tab member  670  is preferably formed of the same materials as described above with regard to the tab member  170 . The tab member  670  has indicia  677  printed on the upper surface thereof. The label  600  differs from the label  400  in that a gap  673  is defined between the edge  672  of the tab member  670  and the end fold  666  of the leaflet  601 . As a result, a portion  656 A of the laminate cover portion  656  is directly adhered to a portion  604 A of the adhesive  604 . 
     Preferably, the gap G (see FIG. 14) extending between the end edge  672  and the fold  666  is at least ⅛ inch and, more preferably, between about ⅛ and ¼ inch. Preferably, the length S of the tab member  670  extending between the first edge  672  and the opposed edge  674  is at least ⅜ inch, and more preferably, between about ⅜ and ¾ inch. 
     The labels  600  may be manufactured in substantially the same manner as described above for the manufacture of the labels  300 . The method for forming the labels  600  differs only in that the multiple-up leaflets are configured and placed on the web such that the extended flaps thereof extend from the top panels instead of the bottom panels. 
     While, in the foregoing methods for forming the labels  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500 ,  600 , the tab members are severed from the extended flaps by a pair of cut lines formed through the extended flap transverse to the web length, it is also contemplated that a single cut line may be formed in the extended flap of the leaflet. However, the provision of a waste portion (defined between the cut lines C—C) is desirable to increase the margin of error for cutting the extended flap and to provide a desired spacing between the labels on the release liner. 
     While the labels of the present invention incorporating tab members have been described and shown incorporating leaflets of certain preferred designs, it is contemplated and will be appreciated that various other leaflet designs may be employed. For example, the extended flaps from which the tab members are severed may form a part of and extend from an interior panel rather than one of the top and bottom panels as described above. In this case the extended flap of the formed label would extend from an interior panel as well. Additionally, the laminate covers and the leaflets may be provided with different configurations of tear lines than those described herein. The laminate covers may be provided with only a single or no tear lines and may be releasably secured at one or both ends. 
     Labels (not shown) according to the present invention may be formed using labels which have only a single panel or sheet. The label may be formed substantially the same as any of the aforedescribed labels with the sheet corresponding to the bottom panel  120 ,  220 ,  320 ,  420 ,  520 ,  620 , the top and interior panels being omitted. The term “leaflet” as used in the claims which follow is defined broadly and includes leaflets formed of a single, unfolded panel or sheet. If desired, a portion or portions of the laminate cover may be removable and suitable tear lines may be provided. 
     With reference to FIG. 16, a label  700  according to a seventh embodiment is shown therein disposed on a release liner  702 . The label  700  includes a leaflet  701  corresponding to the leaflet  401  and a tab member  770  corresponding to the tab member  470 , the tab member  770  having an exposed portion  778  and an underlapping portion  776 . The label  700  is similar to the label  400  except that no laminate cover is provided corresponding to the laminate cover  450 , the tab member  770  is secured to the leaflet  701  by an adhesive layer  751 , and an adhesivefree gap  705  is provided adjacent the removal tear line  736 . 
     The adhesive  751  is interposed between and directly adheres the upper surface of the underlapping portion  776  of the tab member  770  and the overlying portion  720 A of leaflet bottom panel  720 . Preferably, the adhesive  751  is a pressure-sensitive adhesive operative to substantially permanently secure the portions  776 ,  720 A together. Suitable adhesives include S3727 available from H. B. Fuller of Minneapolis, Minn. Preferably, the label  700  has dimensions T, U substantially the same as those described above with regard to the label  400 . The label  700  will provide the same benefits as discussed with regard to the foregoing embodiments with the exception of the benefits attributable to the laminate covers. 
     With the exception of the portion  720 A, the bottom panel  720  is releasably adhered to the release liner  702  by a discrete adhesive patch  704 A and the extended flap is releasably adhered to the release liner by a second discrete adhesive patch  734 . The adhesive-free gap  705  is defined between the opposing edges of adhesive patches  704 A and  704 B, which are preferably located adjacent, and more preferably immediately below (as shown), the fold  765  and the removal tear line  736 , respectively. The gap  705  serves to prevent adherence of the top panel  730  to the article, which adherence might otherwise interfere with opening of the leaflet  701  and removal of the top panel  730 . 
     The labels  700  may be formed by the method and apparatus described above with regard to the labels  400 , except as follows. Rather than providing a continuous coating of adhesive on the release liner, adhesive patches are applied to the release liner with gaps corresponding to the gaps  705  therebetween. Preferably, the adhesive is applied as discrete, spaced apart patches, the spaces between respective patches corresponding to the gaps  705 . The leaflets are placed on the adhesive patches such that they span the gaps. Prior to placing each leaflet in overlapping relation with the preceding leaflet, a strip of adhesive corresponding to the adhesive  751  is applied to the upper surface of the leaflet portion corresponding to the portion  776  of the preceding leaflet and/or the bottom panel lower surface  720 A of the succeeding leaflet. Appropriate placement of the leaflets and the adhesives will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon a reading of the description herein. 
     A label (not shown) similar to the label  700  and also not having a laminate cover may be formed using a leaflet corresponding to the leaflet  101 , a tab member corresponding to the tab member  770  and an adhesive strip corresponding to the adhesive strip  751 . The construction and methods for forming such a label will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon a reading of the description herein. 
     The adhesive free gap  705  may be omitted from the label  700  or may be incorporated into any of the labels  400 ,  500 ,  600 . Moreover, the label  700  and the method for forming the same may be modified to include any of the alternatives and variations as described above. For example, the web used to form the labels  700  may be any of the various webs  14  described above. 
     As discussed above, it is contemplated that labels similar to labels  400 ,  500 ,  600  may be formed using a self-adhesive face stock web so that the labels include a base portion and a second layer of adhesive interposed between the leaflet and tab member and the release liner. It is further contemplated that any of these labels may be provided with an adhesive-free gap on the upper surface of the base portion corresponding to the adhesive free gap  705 . Such adhesive-free gaps may be formed by applying adhesive patches as described above. 
     The leaflets  101 ,  201 ,  301 ,  401 ,  501 ,  601 ,  701  may be formed and printed in any suitable manner, such methods and apparatus being known to those of ordinary skill in the art. In particular, both the upper and lower surfaces of each panel may be printed on, including the lower (ultimately adhesive coated) surfaces of the bottom panels. Preferably the adhesive layers are clear adhesives so that any indicia disposed on the lower surface of a bottom panel may be viewed through the substrate, for example, the clear glass or plastic of the container to which the label is affixed. 
     The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as limiting thereof. Although a few exemplary embodiments of this invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the claims. In the claims, means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Therefore, it is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to be construed as limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications to the disclosed embodiments, as well as other embodiments, are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. The invention is defined by the following claims, with equivalents of the claims to be included therein.