Patent Description:
Conventional plastic bags of a wide variety of size and shape are used in various situations. Bulk materials, such as flour, sugar, rice, seed, animal feed, chemicals, powdered materials or the like, for example, typically have been packaged in woven plastic bags in the past. Pet food, bird seed and other products sold in retail stores typically have not been packaged in conventional woven plastic bags. Among other reasons for this, woven plastic bags were considered too rudimentary to be printed with high end graphics suitable for consumer type of packaging. In addition, the high speed requirements in the filling and packaging operations limited the use of the woven bags in these applications.

Laminated woven sacks (LWS) were developed using a woven polypropylene structure laminated to a bi-oriented polypropylene film (BOPP) that can be reverse printed with high end graphics suitable for consumer type of packaging. The LWS provides a stronger, more attractive bag than the more conventional multiwall bags used for that purpose over the last <NUM> years. Due to their tough strong structure, conventional LWS bags are typically sewn shut on both ends. These LWS recently met with success and have been successfully substituted for the conventional multiwall paper bags used in the pet food industry for many years.

One major drawback of the sewn LWS has been the closing of the bags at high speed filling lines, such as those for filling such bags with pet food. Experience has shown that sewing production lines are typically slower than the filling of the multiwall pinch bottom bags. Additionally, the sewn bags do not provide an aesthetically pleasing and useful clean display on the ends of the bags, thus making it difficult for consumers to identify or find a desired brand quickly when the bags are displayed on the shelves at the point of sale, such as when they are stacked on top of one another. In addition, the sewn ends required puncturing the plastic bags and thus result in a bag that is not sealed, leading to somewhat reduced shelf-life and possible infestation of the contents of the bag. Thus, there is a need for pinch laminated woven sacks that overcome these drawbacks in the filling and closing operations while allowing an attractive graphic display of the bags' ends at the retail outlet and also providing a strong, durable bag which remains sealed.

One major disadvantage of the newly developed pinch bottom laminated woven sack, however, is that it does not include an easy open feature that allows the consumer or purchaser to quickly and easily open the bag without the use of scissors or knives. There is a need for such a pinch bottom laminated woven sack which is easy to open without the use of scissors, knives or other such instruments, and also does not require the use of excessive force.

Woven plastic bags have been used and are conventional for certain applications. An example of a conventional woven plastic bag is provided in <CIT>. The '<NUM> patent describes the use of woven strips of highly longitudinally-oriented, high-density polyethylene or polypropylene in a bag construction in which the bag is formed from a seamed tube made of the woven plastic material. The seamed tube has gussets on either side and, when a portion is cut from the rest of the tube, a bag having two open, unsealed ends is provided. The '<NUM> patent describes the use of ultrasonic spot welds to seal portions of a bag made of such woven plastic strips, as opposed to sewing the seams of a bag or using a hot melt adhesive to seal the gusset forming pleat. The '<NUM> patent purports to be an improvement for sealing a plastic bag. As noted in the '<NUM> patent, sewing one end tends to take longer, thus adding time to the manufacturing process. In addition, the sewn ends in a conventional bag tend to be a weak portion of the bag, and a likely location for rips, tearing, and subsequent loss of contents during storing, shipping and handling. In addition, such bags may not provide sufficient protection from infestation from vermin and/or insects.

Another example of plastic bags is disclosed in <CIT>, which describes production of web sections from a flexible web material that is provided with tear-off lines produced by laser beam processing at the distance of the length of the web sections to be formed. The tear-off lines weaken the flexible web material, but do not result in complete separation of the web sections from the web material, which occurs upon tearing the flexible web material.

More recently, some types of plastic bags have provided improvements in sealing the ends of the bags. For example, in <CIT>, a process for sealing side fold sacks made of plastic film is described. According to the '<NUM> patent, a web of plastic tubular film is cut to provide a staggered detachment along a perforation so that one wall (e.g., the front wall) projects beyond the opposing wall (e.g., the back wall). The projecting portion of the first wall is then folded over and sealed to the opposing wall by means of a plastic adhesive such as a polyurethane adhesive or hot melt. However, such bags involve plastic films, not woven plastic materials, and therefore are unable to handle the weight loads of conventional bulk bags made of paper and other materials. Such bags are useful for only certain lightweight contents, such as bread.

There are a variety of conventional ways of providing for reusable openings in bags. For example, <CIT>, describes a peelable opening in a multiwall, pinched bottom open mouth bag construction. The '<NUM> patent also describes the use of an adhesive layer that can be used so that the bag opening is reclosable.

In other types of conventional plastic bags, such as those used in retail and grocery stores, the use of weakened portion provided by one or more perforations in the plastic bag wall is known. A number of approaches have been taken in connection with such bags, including those shown in <CIT>, as well as in <CIT>, <CIT>, and <CIT>. However, none of these bags are woven bags, let alone bags with multiple layers.

<CIT> discloses solvent-resistant and weather-resistant charcoal bags formed from a woven thermoplastic layer and optionally having a barrier film layer. The charcoal bags can also have a flat bottom.

<CIT> discloses a woven laminated plastic bag having an easy access or resealable feature and methods for making the same.

Typically woven and non-woven bags are sealed with a single or double fold at each end with tape over the single or double fold, stitching at both ends, or a zipper at one end and a single or double fold at the other end. However, opening woven and certain non-woven bags has proven difficult, due to the strength of the bag. Therefore, what is needed are woven and non-woven bags that are easier to open, that do not add much to the cost or time to manufacture, and are not susceptible to inadvertent tearing, punctures, breaking, or the like.

The present disclosure provides woven and non-woven plastic bags comprising an easy open feature, which makes the presently disclosed woven and non-woven plastic bags easier to open than conventional woven and non-woven plastic bags.

The present disclosure provides a bag comprising a front wall, a back wall, an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top end, a bottom end, a first layer and a second layer, each of the front wall and back wall having an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top end and a bottom end, wherein the first layer comprises a woven polymer and the second layer comprises a polymer film laminated to the first layer, and wherein the bag comprises an easy open feature having a weakened area, the weakened area comprising a plurality of perforations defining a line, wherein the plurality of perforations penetrate through at least a portion of the front wall of the bag, the back wall of the bag, or a combination thereof. The first layer comprises polypropylene, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polyester, or any combination thereof. The second layer comprises polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, or any combination thereof. The bag can be opened at the plurality of perforations with less force than required to open other portions of the bag.

In general the easy open feature comprises a weakened area. The weakened area comprises a plurality of perforations defining a line and that penetrate through at least a portion of the front wall of the bag, the back wall of the bag, or a combination thereof. The plurality of perforations can form a line that extends about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>% or about <NUM>% of a distance across the front wall of the bag, the back wall of the bag, or a combination thereof. The plurality of perforations can also form a shape, including, but not limited to, a circle, an oval, a triangle, a square or a rectangle. In other aspects, the plurality of perforations forms a first line and a second line, which can be about parallel and extend about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>%, about <NUM>% or about <NUM>% of a distance across the front wall of the bag, the back wall of the bag, or a combination thereof.

The easy open feature can be comprised within the first layer or the second layer of the bag, or within the first layer and the second layer of the bag. The bag can further comprise an adhesive pull tab covering at least a portion of the easy open feature or the entire easy open feature. The adhesive pull tab can comprise a piece of tape, and can also comprise printing, for example directions for opening the easy open feature or a promotional coupon.

In certain embodiments the bottom end of the bag is sealed using conventional means. For example, at least a portion of a single fold of the bottom end of the front wall and the rear wall of the bag can be sealed to the outer surface of the front wall or rear wall of the bag, using an adhesive sealing, heat sealing, adhesive lamination, extrusion lamination, stitching, ultrasonic energy, pressure, tape, or any combination thereof. Alternatively at least a portion of a double fold of the bottom end of the front wall and the rear wall of the bag can be sealed to the outer surface of the front wall or rear wall of the bag. However, in certain aspects at least a portion of the bottom end of the rear wall, or the entire bottom end of the rear wall, projects further than the bottom end of the front wall. Thus, the portion of the bottom end of the rear wall that projects further than the bottom end of the front wall can be sealed to the outer surface of the bottom end of the front wall. Additionally, the top end of the bag can be sealed using conventional means. For example, at least a portion of a single fold of the top end of the front wall and the rear wall of the bag can be sealed to the outer surface of the front wall or rear wall of the bag, using an adhesive sealing, heat sealing, adhesive lamination, extrusion lamination, stitching, ultrasonic energy, pressure, tape, or any combination thereof. Alternatively at least a portion of a double fold of the top end of the front wall and the rear wall of the bag can be sealed to the outer surface of the front wall or the rear wall of the bag. However, in certain aspects at least a portion of the top end of the rear wall, or the entire top end of the rear wall, projects further than the top end of the front wall. Thus, the portion of the top end of the rear wall that projects further than the top end of the front wall can be sealed to the outer surface of the bottom end of the front wall. The top end and/or the bottom end of the bag can also comprise stitching there through.

In certain embodiments the bag further comprises a first side wall having an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top end and a bottom end, and a second side wall having an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top end and a bottom end. The first side wall and/or the second side wall can comprise gussets. In certain aspects at least a portion of the bottom end of the rear wall projects further than the bottom end of the first side wall, the bottom end of the second side wall, and the bottom end of the front wall. In an exemplary way to seal the bottom end of such bags, the portion of the bottom end of the rear wall that projects further than the bottom end of the first side wall, the bottom end of the second side wall, and the bottom end of the front wall can be sealed to the outer surface of the bottom end of the front wall. In additional aspects at least a portion of the top end of the front wall projects further than the top end of the first side wall, the top end of the second side wall and the top end of the rear wall. In these aspects the portion of the top end of the bag that projects further than the top end of the first side wall, the top end of the second side wall and the top end of the rear wall can be sealed to the outer surface of the top end of the rear wall.

Alternatively a portion of the bottom end of the rear wall can project further than the bottom end of the first side wall and the bottom end of the second side wall, and a portion of the bottom end of the first side wall and the bottom end of the second side wall can project further than the bottom end of the front wall. In an exemplary way to seal the bottom end of such bags, the portion of the bottom end of the rear wall that projects further than the bottom end of the first side wall and the bottom end of the second side wall, and the portion of the bottom end of the first side wall and the bottom end of the second side wall that projects further than the bottom end of the front wall can be sealed to the outer surface of the bottom end of the front wall. In further aspects at least a portion of the top end of the front wall projects further that the top end of the first side wall and the top end of the second side wall, and the top end of the first side wall and the top end of the second side wall project further than the top end of the rear wall. In these aspects the portion of the front wall that projects further than the top end of the first side wall and the top end of the second side wall, and the portion of the top end of the first side wall and the top end of the second side wall that projects further than the top end of the rear wall can be sealed to the outer surface of the top end of the rear wall. In particular embodiments the top end and the bottom end of the bag are sealed, as set forth above, and the bag comprises at least <NUM> (ten pounds) by weight of a bulk item. In certain aspects such sealed bags can comprise six printable surfaces.

Additionally the bag can further comprise a third layer comprising a polymer positioned between the first layer and the second layer. The third layer can comprise a woven polymer, including, but not limited to, polypropylene, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polyester, or any combination thereof. The third layer can alternatively comprise a polymeric film, including, but not limited to, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, or any combination thereof. The third layer can further comprises an oriented polymeric film, including, but not limited to, oriented polypropylene, biaxially-oriented polypropylene, oriented polyethylene, biaxially-oriented polyethylene, oriented polyethylene terephthalate, biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate, oriented polyamide, biaxially-oriented polyamide, or any combination thereof.

In yet further embodiments the second layer comprises oriented polypropylene, biaxially-oriented polypropylene, oriented polyethylene, biaxially-oriented polyethylene, oriented polyethylene terephthalate, biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate, oriented polyamide, biaxially-oriented polyamide, coated paper or any combination thereof. In additional embodiments the bags further comprise a third layer between said first layer and said second layer. In particular embodiments the third layer is an adhesive. In yet other embodiments the first layer and second layer are laminated together. In still other embodiments the first layer, second layer and third layer are laminated together.

In certain embodiments the easy open feature further comprises a cover having a first surface and a second surface and an adhesive on at least a portion of the first surface, the second surface, or both. In some embodiments the weakened area further comprises a cut having a first end and a second end, wherein the cut penetrates through at least a portion of the bag or cover. In particular embodiments the cut comprises a carat, a semi-circle, an open square, or an open rectangle. In further embodiments the weakened area further comprises a second cut having a first end and a second end. In other embodiments the first cut and the second cut intersect. In yet other embodiments the first cut and the second cut comprise an "X" shape. In yet further embodiments the first cut and the second cut comprise parallel lines. In still further embodiments the weakened area further comprises a third cut. In some embodiments the first cut, the second cut and the third cut comprises an "H" shape.

In additional embodiments the cover comprises a polymer, a film, an adhesive, a paper, or any combination thereof. In certain embodiments the bags further comprise a second cover covering at least a portion of the weakened area of the cover. In particular embodiments the second cover covers the entire weakened area of the cover. In further embodiments the second cover comprises a polymer, a film, an adhesive, a paper, or any combination thereof. In other embodiments the cover and the second cover comprise the same material, width, color, transparency or strength as the second cover, while in yet other embodiments the cover and the second cover comprise a different material, width, color, transparency or strength as the second cover. In some embodiments the second cover comprises a piece of tape. In additional embodiments the second cover comprises printing, such as when the second cover comprises a coupon.

In certain embodiments a single fold of the bottom end of the front wall and the rear wall of the bag is sealed to the outer surface of the front wall of the bag. In other embodiments the bottom end of the bag is sealed using an adhesive sealing, heat sealing, adhesive lamination, extrusion lamination, stitching, ultrasonic energy, pressure, tape, or any combination thereof. In further embodiments a double fold of the bottom end of the front wall and the rear wall of the bag is sealed to the outer surface of the front wall of the bag. In additional embodiments at least a portion of the bottom end of the rear wall projects further than the bottom end of the front wall. In such embodiments the portion of the bottom end of the rear wall that projects further than the bottom end of the front wall can be sealed to the outer surface of the bottom end of the front wall.

In additional embodiments the bags further comprise a first side wall having an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top end and a bottom end, and a second side wall having an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top end and a bottom end, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall further comprise gussets. In further embodiments at least a portion of the bottom end of the rear wall projects further than the bottom end of the first side wall, the bottom end of the second side wall, and the bottom end of the front wall. In yet further embodiments the portion of the bottom end of the rear wall that projects further than the bottom end of the first side wall, the bottom end of the second side wall, and the bottom end of the front wall is sealed to the outer surface of the bottom end of the front wall. In other embodiments at least a portion of the bottom end of the rear wall projects further than the bottom end of the first side wall and the bottom end of the second side wall, and the bottom end of the first side wall and the bottom end of the second side wall project further than the bottom end of the front wall, and wherein the portion of the bottom end of the rear wall that projects further than the bottom end of the first side wall and the bottom end of the second side wall, and the portion of the bottom end of the first side wall and the bottom end of the second side wall that project further than the bottom end of the front wall are sealed to the outer surface of the bottom end of the front wall. In still other embodiments at least a portion of the top end of the front wall projects further than the top end of the first side wall and the top end of the second side wall, and the top end of the first side wall and the top end of the second side wall project further than the top end of the rear wall.

In particular embodiments the top end and the bottom end of the bag are sealed, and the bag comprises at least <NUM> (ten pounds) by weight of a filling material. In further embodiments the bags further comprise a fourth layer comprising a polymer between the first layer and the second layer. In certain embodiments the fourth layer comprises a woven polymer, including, but not limited to, polypropylene, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polyester, or any combination thereof. In other embodiments the fourth layer comprises a polymeric film, including, but not limited to, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, or any combination thereof. In additional embodiments at least portions of the exterior surfaces of each of the front wall and the back wall comprise a plurality of discrete areas further comprising printing thereon. In certain other embodiments a portion of the front wall and a portion of the back wall combine to form a discrete portion of the bag located at or near either the top end or the bottom end, wherein the discrete portion of the bag comprises printing thereon. In yet other embodiments at least a portion of the front wall or the back wall projects beyond a corresponding portion of the other, thereby defining a pinch bottom bag at the top end or the bottom end of the bag.

The present disclosure further provides methods of making a woven polymer bag with an easyopen feature, the bag comprising a front wall, a back wall, an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top end, a bottom end, a first layer and a second layer, each of the front wall and back wall having an interior surface and an exterior surface, wherein the first layer comprises a woven polymer, and the second layer comprises a polymer film laminated to the first layer, and the easy open feature comprises a plurality of perforations defining a line on the front wall of the bag, the back wall of the bag, or a combination thereof, wherein the first layer comprises polypropylene, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polyester, or any combination thereof, the second layer comprises polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, or any combination thereof, the method comprising creating the plurality of perforations in the bag, wherein each of the plurality of perforations extends at least partially through the front bag wall, the back bag wall, or a combination thereof.

It is an object of the invention to provide a woven plastic bag that is stronger than bags made of plastic films, and yet easier to open than conventional woven bags.

It is another object of the invention to provide a woven plastic bag that includes an easy open feature and still provides strength and durability, reducing the potential for tearing, damage, infestation, and loss of contents.

It is still another object of the invention to provide a woven bag that can be manufactured more quickly and therefore is less costly than conventional bags, and that has an easy open feature that makes opening the woven bag easier than opening conventional woven bags.

It is still another object of the invention to provide a woven polymeric bag that provides an attractive high end graphic display on at least one end of the bags when are displayed or presented at the point of sale.

These and other objects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description.

Referring first to <FIG>, the front side view of an embodiment of a bag 1a is shown. Bag 1a has a front wall <NUM>, a back wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM>, a second side wall <NUM>, a top end <NUM>, and a bottom end <NUM>. It will be apparent, however, that the orientation of the bag ends <NUM> and <NUM> is unimportant and the "top" and "bottom" references are useful but may change depending on the orientation one views the bag. As shown in <FIG> the top end <NUM> is considered a "flush cut" because the top ends of the front wall <NUM> and the back wall <NUM> are cut so that the top ends of the front wall <NUM> and the back wall <NUM> are essentially "flush" with one another; they have substantially the same length. Additionally, as shown in <FIG> the bottom end <NUM> is considered a "pinch cut" because the bottom end of the front wall <NUM> is longer than the bottom end of the back wall <NUM>. Bag 1a also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> near the top end <NUM> of the bag 1a, which in this embodiment comprises a full cut <NUM> in a rectangular shape having a first end 21a and a second end 21b through the front wall <NUM> of bag 1a, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 21a of the cut <NUM>, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 21b of the cut <NUM>, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, a cover <NUM> over the cut <NUM> and the rows of perforations <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, and a pull tab <NUM> attached to the cover <NUM>. Although in this embodiment the easy open feature <NUM> is located near the top end <NUM> of the bag 1a and the pull tab is located close to the second side wall <NUM>, the skilled artisan will realize that the easy open feature <NUM> could also be in the opposite orientation, with the pull tab located closer to the first side wall <NUM>, reside in either orientation near the bottom end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of bag 1a, or reside in either orientation near the top end <NUM> or bottom end <NUM> on the back wall <NUM> of the bag 1a. The full cut <NUM> can be formed by punching, cutting, or through the use of a laser, or by any other technique known to those skilled in the art. The easy open feature <NUM> (in this embodiment the cut <NUM> and/or first <NUM> or second <NUM> row of perforations) provides a portion of bag 1a that is weakened. This weakened portion can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the bag 1a.

Bag 1a can be opened by pulling the pull tab <NUM>, which removes the cover <NUM> and the portion of bag 1a defined by the cut <NUM> and the first, second, and third row of perforations <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively. Although not shown in this embodiment, it will be understood that the full cut <NUM> can be larger or smaller, and can extend to a greater or lesser extent, and the first and second rows of perforations <NUM> and <NUM>, respectfully, can extend any distance from the first end and second end, respectively, of the cut toward the opposite side wall of the bag, for example <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% or about <NUM>% of the distance from the ends of the cut to the opposite side of the bag. In addition, although not shown in this embodiment, the cover <NUM> can cover less than the full extent of the first and second rows of perforations, whatever distance the rows of perforations extend across the front wall of the bag, and in certain embodiments covers only the full cut portion of the easy open feature <NUM>. The cover can comprise a polymer, a film, an adhesive, paper, or any combination thereof. Although not shown in <FIG>, the cut <NUM> and the first, second, and third row of perforations <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> can comprise a first cover and a second cover, or a plurality of covers. Additionally, the pull tab <NUM> can comprise black and white and/or color printing (not shown), for example a coupon (not shown), and can also be used to reclose the bag.

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of another embodiment of a bag 1b is shown. Bag 1b also has a front wall <NUM>, a back wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM>, a second side wall <NUM>, a flush cut top end <NUM>, and a pinch cut bottom end <NUM>. Bag 1b also comprises an easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1b and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a triangular or carat shape having a first end 21a and a second end 21b through the front wall <NUM> of bag 1b, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 21a of the cut <NUM>, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 21b of the cut <NUM>, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, a cover <NUM> over the cut and the rows of perforations, and a pull tab <NUM> attached to the cover <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of yet another embodiment of a bag 1c is shown. Bag 1c also has a front wall <NUM>, a back wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM>, a second side wall <NUM>, a flush cut top end <NUM>, and a pinch cut bottom end <NUM>. Bag 1c also comprises an easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the top end <NUM> of the bag 1c and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a semi-circular shape having a first end 21a and a second end 21b through the front wall <NUM> of bag 1c, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 21a of the cut <NUM>, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 21b of the cut <NUM>, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, a cover <NUM> over the cut and the rows of perforations, and a pull tab <NUM> attached to the cover <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an alternate embodiment of a cover <NUM> and pull tab <NUM> is shown, where the cover <NUM> is over the full cut <NUM> in a semi-circular shape having a first end 21a and a second end 21b, but does not cover the full extent of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, and does not cover the third row of perforations <NUM>. In this embodiment, the pull tab <NUM> includes instructions to open the bag, but can also comprise black and white and/or color printing (not shown), for example a promotional coupon (not shown).

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of still another embodiment of a bag 1d is shown. Bag 1d also has a front wall <NUM>, a back wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM>, a second side wall <NUM>, a flush cut top end <NUM>, and a pinch cut bottom end <NUM>. Bag 1d also comprises an easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1d and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a rectangular shape having a first end 21a and a second end 21b through the front wall <NUM> of bag 1d, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 21a of the cut <NUM>, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 21b of the cut <NUM>, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, a cover <NUM> over the cut and the rows of perforations, and a pull tab <NUM> attached to the cover <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of one embodiment of a "pinch cut" bag 100a is shown. As shown in <FIG>, the bag 100a has a pinch cut first or top end <NUM> and a pinch cut second or bottom end <NUM>. Once again, it will be apparent, however, that the orientation of the bag ends <NUM> and <NUM> is unimportant and the "top" and "bottom" references are useful but may change depending on the orientation one views the bag. The bag 100a has a front wall or surface <NUM> with top end <NUM>, a rear wall or surface <NUM>, and two side walls <NUM> and <NUM>. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that conventional techniques can be used to provide side gussets in the bag 100a for each of sides <NUM> and <NUM> during this forming process. The first end <NUM> of bag 100a has portions 112a and 112b of the rear wall or surface 108of the bag that extend further from the body of the bag 100a than do portions 114a and 114b of the material of bag 100a forming the side gussets for sides <NUM> and <NUM>. In addition, the portions 114a and 114b of the side gussets extend further from the body of the bag 100a than the top end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of the bag 100a. As shown in <FIG>, the front wall <NUM> of the bag 100a has an end portion <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the bag that does not extend as far from the body of the bag 100a as the end portions 114a and 114b of the side gussets or the end portions 112a and 112b of the rear wall of the first end <NUM> of the bag 100a. Bag 100a also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> near the top end <NUM> of the bag 100a, which in this embodiment comprises a full cut <NUM> in a rectangular shape having a first end 121a and a second end 121b through the front wall <NUM> of bag 100a, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 121a of the cut <NUM>, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 121b of the cut <NUM>, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, a cover <NUM> over the cut and the rows of perforations, and a pull tab <NUM> attached to the cover <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of another embodiment of a "pinch cut" bag 100b is shown. As shown in <FIG>, the bag 100b has a pinch cut first or top end <NUM> and a pinch cut second or bottom end <NUM>. The bag 100b has a front wall or surface <NUM> with top end <NUM>, a rear wall or surface <NUM>, and two side walls <NUM> and <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of bag 100b has portions 112a and 112b of the rear wall or surface <NUM> of the bag that extend further from the body of the bag 100b than do portions 114a and 114b of the material of bag <NUM> forming the side gussets for sides <NUM> and <NUM>. In addition, the portions 114a and 114b of the side gussets extend further from the body of the bag 100b than the top end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of the bag 100b. As shown in <FIG>, the front wall <NUM> of the bag 100b has an end portion <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the bag that does not extend as far from the body of the bag 100b as the end portions 114a and 114b of the side gussets or the end portions 112a and 112b of the rear wall of the first end <NUM> of the bag 100b. Bag 100b also comprises an easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 100b and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a rectangular shape having a first end 121a and a second end 121b through the front wall <NUM> of bag 100b, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 121a of the cut <NUM>, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 121b of the cut <NUM>, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, a cover <NUM> over the cut and the rows of perforations, and a pull tab <NUM> attached to the cover <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a planar view of an embodiment of a substantially flat sheet of material from which a "pinch cut" bag 100c is to be formed is shown. Shown on the sheet are front wall <NUM>, rear wall <NUM>, first side <NUM> having gusset portion 114a, second side <NUM> having gusset portion 114b, seam <NUM>, top end <NUM> and bottom end <NUM>. Also shown is easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the bottom end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of the bag 100c and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a rectangular shape having a first end 121a and a second end 121b through the front wall <NUM> of bag 100c, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 121a of the cut <NUM> across the front wall <NUM> of bag 100a, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 121b of the cut <NUM> across the front wall <NUM> of bag 100c, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, a cover <NUM> over the cut <NUM> and the rows of perforations, and a pull tab <NUM> attached to the cover <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a planar view of another embodiment of a substantially flat sheet of material from which a "pinch cut" bag 100d is to be formed is shown. Shown on the sheet are front wall <NUM>, rear wall <NUM>, first side <NUM> having gusset portion 114a, second side <NUM> having gusset portion 114b, seam <NUM>, top end <NUM> and bottom end <NUM>. Also shown is easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the top end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of the bag 100d and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a rectangular shape having a first end 121a and a second end 121b through the front wall <NUM> of bag 100d, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 121a of the cut <NUM> across the front wall <NUM> of bag 100d, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 121b of the cut <NUM> across the front wall <NUM> of bag 100d, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, a cover <NUM> over the cut <NUM> and the rows of perforations, and a pull tab <NUM> attached to the cover <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a planar view of another embodiment of a substantially flat sheet of material from which a "pinch cut' bag 100e is to be formed is shown. Shown on the sheet are front wall <NUM>, rear wall <NUM>, first side <NUM> having gusset portion 114a, second side <NUM> having gusset portion 114b, seam <NUM>, top end <NUM> and bottom end <NUM>. Also shown is easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the top end <NUM> of the second side <NUM> of the bag 100e and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a carat shape having a first end 121a and a second end 121b through the second side <NUM> of bag 100e, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 121a of the cut <NUM> across the second side <NUM> of bag 100e, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 121b of the cut <NUM> across the second side <NUM> of bag 100e, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, and a cover <NUM> over the cut <NUM> and a small portion of the first row of perforations <NUM> and second row of perforations <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a planar view of another embodiment of a substantially flat sheet of material from which a "pinch cut" bag 100f is to be formed is shown. Shown on the sheet are front wall <NUM>, rear wall <NUM>, first side <NUM> having gusset portion 114a, second side <NUM> having gusset portion 114b, seam <NUM>, top end <NUM> and bottom end <NUM>. Also shown is easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the top end <NUM> of the second side <NUM> of the bag 100f and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a carat shape having a first end 121a and a second end 121b through the second side <NUM> of bag 100f, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 121a of the cut <NUM> across the second side <NUM>, front wall <NUM>, first side <NUM> and rear wall <NUM> of bag 100f, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 121b of the cut <NUM> across the second side <NUM>, front wall <NUM>, first side <NUM> and rear wall <NUM> of bag 100f, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, and a cover <NUM> over the cut <NUM> and a small portion of the first row of perforations <NUM> and second row of perforations <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a planar view of another embodiment of a substantially flat sheet of material from which a "pinch cut" bag <NUM> is to be formed is shown. Shown on the sheet are front wall <NUM>, rear wall <NUM>, first side <NUM> having gusset portion 114a, second side <NUM> having gusset portion 114b, seam <NUM>, top end <NUM> and bottom end <NUM>. Also shown is easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the top end <NUM> of the second side <NUM> of the bag <NUM> and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a carat shape having a first end 121a and a second end 121b through the second side <NUM> of bag <NUM>, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 121a of the cut <NUM> across the second side <NUM>, front wall <NUM> and into the first side <NUM> of bag <NUM>, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 121b of the cut <NUM> across the second side <NUM>, front wall <NUM> and into the first side <NUM> of bag <NUM>, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, and a cover <NUM> over the cut <NUM> and a small portion of the first row of perforations <NUM> and second row of perforations <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a planar view of another embodiment of a substantially flat sheet of material from which a "pinch cut" bag <NUM> is to be formed is shown. Shown on the sheet are front wall <NUM>, rear wall <NUM>, first side <NUM> having gusset portion 114a, second side <NUM> having gusset portion 114b, seam <NUM>, top end <NUM> and bottom end <NUM>. Also shown is easy open feature <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the top end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of the bag <NUM> and comprises a bidirectional full cut <NUM> in a square shape having a first end 121a, a second end 121b, a third end 121c and a fourth end 121d through the front wall <NUM> of bag <NUM>, a first row of perforations <NUM> extending from the first end 121a of the cut <NUM> across the front wall <NUM> and into the first side <NUM> of bag <NUM>, a second row of perforations <NUM> extending from the second end 121b of the cut <NUM> across the front wall <NUM> and into the first side <NUM> of bag <NUM>, an optional third row of perforations <NUM> connecting the end of the first row of perforations <NUM> and the second row of perforations <NUM>, a fourth row of perforations 122a extending from the third end 121c of the cut <NUM> across the front wall <NUM> and into the second side <NUM> of bag <NUM>, a fifth row of perforations 123a extending from the fourth end 121d of the cut <NUM> across the front wall <NUM> and into the second side <NUM> of bag <NUM>, an optional sixth row of perforations 124a connecting the end of the fourth row of perforations 122a and the fifth row of perforations 123a, and a cover <NUM> over the cut <NUM> and a small portion of the first row of perforations <NUM>, second row of perforations <NUM>, fourth row of perforations 122a and fifth row of perforations 123a.

Referring to <FIG>, the back side view of yet another embodiment of a "pinch cut" bag 100j according to the enclosed claims is shown. As shown in <FIG>, the bag 100j has a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. It is useful to think of first and second ends <NUM> and <NUM> as the top and bottom ends of the bag 100j, respectively. The bag 100j has a front wall or surface <NUM>, a rear wall or surface <NUM>, and two side walls <NUM> and <NUM>. The bag 100j also has a seam <NUM> on the back side, or rear wall or surface. The seam <NUM> is made when the bag <NUM> is formed using conventional methods known to those skilled in the art. Using such conventional methods, a material from which a bag 100j is to be formed (such materials are discussed in detail below) is provided in a substantially flat sheet (see <FIG>). The sheet is then directed and formed so that a portion of one side of the sheet is disposed on top of the other side of the sheet, such as in forming a tube. The overlapping portion is then secured and sealed together, forming the seam <NUM>. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that conventional techniques can be used to provide side gussets in the bag 100j for each of sides <NUM> and <NUM> during this forming process.

The bottom (as shown in <FIG>) of the first end <NUM> of bag 100j has portions 112a and 112b of the front wall <NUM> or surface of the bag that extend further from the body of the bag 100j than do portions 114a and 114b of the material of bag 100j forming the side gussets for sides <NUM> and <NUM>. In addition, the portions 114a and 114b of the side gussets extend further from the body of the bag 100j than the top end <NUM> of the rear wall <NUM> of the bag 100j. As shown in <FIG>, the rear wall of the bag 100j has a top end <NUM> that does not extend as far from the body of the bag 100j as the end portions 114a and 114b of the side gussets or the end portions 112a and 112b of the front wall <NUM> of the bag 100j.

Now referring to <FIG>, a top side view of a "pinch cut" bag <NUM> according to the enclosed claims is provided. For ease of reference, the same numerals are used in the Figures to denote the same features of bag <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the bag <NUM> comprises multiple layers of materials <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>. The first layer <NUM> is preferably a woven polymeric material, such as polypropylene, polyester, high-density polyethylene, or polyethylene. The woven plastic layer <NUM> can be made of woven strips of plastic made of film to provide great strength from relatively lightweight materials, and can also be stretched to provide greater strength. For example, cross-laminated, woven plastic film strips, like XF films, are useful and are commercially available from Valeron. Similarly, a biaxially oriented polypropylene plastic material is commercially available from the AmTopp Division of Inteplast Group, Ltd. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other materials, including various blends of polypropylene and polyethylene can be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

Still referring to <FIG>, the layer <NUM> is a coating or a lamination, preferably a polypropylene film. Layer <NUM> is preferably an oriented polypropylene film with reverse printing. The layer <NUM> can comprise reverse printing of various labels, advertising, warnings, and other information as may be desired, such as the cover <NUM> shown in <FIG>. Although not shown, those skilled in the art will appreciated that the top side, back side, and sides <NUM> and <NUM> of the bag <NUM> may all contain such pictures, patterns, or information as may be desired. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the reverse printing of layer <NUM> can be achieved with conventional techniques, and with various conventional plastic films. An advantage of printing the bottom portion of the front and/or back panels is the provision of information that remains visible when the bag is on a display shelf in a store.

Still referring to <FIG>, the bottom side (as shown in <FIG>) of the bag <NUM> extends outward from the body of the bag <NUM> at the second end <NUM> of the bag <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the top side of the bag <NUM> has an end portion <NUM> extending along the width of the bag <NUM>. The side gussets of the sides <NUM> and <NUM> of the bag <NUM> each have portions 142a and 142b which extend further towards the second end <NUM> of the bag <NUM> than the end portion <NUM> of the top side of bag <NUM>. In addition, the bottom side of the bag <NUM> has an end portion <NUM> that extends further from the end portions 142a and 142b of the side gussets. The end portion <NUM> of the bag <NUM> includes portions 144a and 144b. As shown in <FIG>, the second end portion of the bottom side of the bag <NUM> extends along the entire width of the bag <NUM>. Also shown is seam <NUM>.

Still referring to <FIG>, the exposed end portions 144a and 144b of the bottom side of the bag <NUM> can be coated with a durable adhesive. The adhesive can be applied to selective surface areas, such as portions 144a and 144b, or can be applied in a line extending across the bottom side of the bag <NUM> along the second end portion <NUM>, including portions 144a and 144b. After the adhesive is applied, preferably the sides <NUM> and <NUM> of the bag <NUM>, together with the bottom side of the bag <NUM> are folded so that at least a portion of the interior surface of the bottom side of the bag <NUM> extends over the top surface of the top side of the bag <NUM>. Preferably, the portions 142a and 142b of the side gussets will be folded over and attached to the top surface of the top side of the bag <NUM>, as well as portions 144a and 144b of the second end <NUM> of the bottom side of the bag <NUM>. The coating then seals the second end <NUM> of the bag <NUM> together. The first end <NUM> of the bag <NUM> can be sealed in a similar fashion if desired. Alternatively, the first end <NUM> or second end <NUM> of the bag <NUM> can be sealed using a hot melt technique or any other technique well-known to those skilled in the art.

Referring now to <FIG>, a detailed cross-sectional view of an end portion of the bag <NUM> is provided. As shown in <FIG>, at least a portion of the front side <NUM> of bag <NUM> is now covered by the lowest edge portion <NUM> of the back side of bag <NUM>, the extending portions 142a, 142b of side <NUM> of the bag <NUM>, as well as a portion of the front side <NUM> of bag <NUM> including end portion <NUM>. Once these portions are folded over, heat and pressure can be applied as appropriate to obtain and ensure that the bottom end <NUM> of bag <NUM> is durably sealed, such as with a conventional heat sealable adhesive.

Once the bag <NUM> is sealed at one end, it can be filled with the desired materials. It has been found that a bag <NUM> with a height of <NUM> (<NUM> inches) and a width of <NUM> (<NUM> inches) can durably hold at least about <NUM> (fifty (<NUM>) pounds) of material without showing undue stress, tearing, breakage or the like. It is believed that any bulk material can be contained by bag <NUM>, and the contents can weigh up to <NUM> (<NUM> pounds) or so without undue risk of tearing or damage to bag <NUM>. Once the bag <NUM> is filled, the second end typically needs to be sealed. The second end of the bag <NUM> can be sealed in a similar manner as that described above for the bottom end <NUM>. Alternatively, the bag <NUM> can have its second end sealed by conventional means such as sewing. Still another approach is to seal the second end in a manner like that described for the bottom end <NUM> of the bag <NUM>, and then stitching one of the two ends (not shown). Although not shown, those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that a second end of bag <NUM> can be sealed with conventional techniques once bag <NUM> has been filled with the selected amount of the desired material.

Referring now to <FIG>, an isometric view of bag <NUM> according to the enclosed claims is provided. As shown in <FIG>, the bag <NUM> includes a front panel <NUM>, a first side panel with gussets <NUM>, a second side panel with gussets (not visible in <FIG>), a top end <NUM>, and a bottom end <NUM>. The bag <NUM> is a pinch cut bag like those described previously, with both a pinch cut top end <NUM> and a pinch cut bottom end <NUM>. The bag <NUM> preferably has a weakened area (not shown in <FIG>) or other easy open feature on at least one surface (not shown in <FIG>). As shown in <FIG>, the bag <NUM> has been filled and sealed and contains one or more materials. Although the contents of the bag <NUM> may be food, animal food, other bulk items, the contents may also contain liquids or mixtures. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the bag <NUM>, once formed in accordance with the present disclosure, may be filled and then either the top end <NUM> or the bottom end <NUM> or both may be sealed as described previously. As shown in <FIG>, the bag <NUM>, once filled, presents a bottom panel <NUM> on the bottom end <NUM> thereof and a top panel on the top end thereof (not visible in <FIG>). The bag <NUM> may be stacked on top of similar or different bags, such as at a grocery store, pet store, or other display location, such that panel <NUM> is easily visible to a consumer. As shown in <FIG> the front panel <NUM>, the first side panel <NUM> and the bottom panel <NUM> includes printing (and can also include graphics), and it will be appreciated by the skilled artisan that the top panel, the rear panel, and the second side panel of bag <NUM>, which are not visible in <FIG>, can also include graphics and/or printing. Thus bag <NUM> has six discrete areas for printing and/or graphics, each formed by a discrete surface area of the bag <NUM>. Additionally, the printing and/or graphics can extend across more than one panel, or any combination of the six panels (not shown). The panel <NUM> may include graphics and/or printing so that a consumer is able to quickly, readily and easily identify the brand of the contents in the bag, such as the brand name for the pet food therein if the bag <NUM> contains pet food. Alternatively, or in addition, the printing or graphics on the panel <NUM> may contain information such as price, composition, expiration date, and the like. In another embodiment, the panel <NUM> may contain printing or graphics that provide a coupon or other price discount or other offer, either on the contents of the bag <NUM> or some other product.

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of an embodiment of a "flush cut" bag 1001a according to the enclosed claims is shown. Bag 1001a has a front wall <NUM>, a back wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM>, a second side wall <NUM>, a top end <NUM>, and a bottom end <NUM>. It will be apparent, however, that the orientation of the bag ends <NUM> and <NUM> is unimportant and the "top" and "bottom" references are useful but may change depending on the orientation one views the bag. Bag 1001a is considered a "flush cut" bag because the front wall <NUM> and the back wall <NUM> are cut so that the ends of the front wall <NUM> and the back wall <NUM> are essentially "flush" with one another; they have substantially the same length. Bag 1001a also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> comprising a cover <NUM> proximal to the sealed single fold <NUM> (in other embodiments this could be a double fold) at the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1001a. In this embodiment the cover <NUM> comprises a first cut <NUM> through the cover <NUM> having a first end 1031a and a second end 1031b, a second cut <NUM> through the cover <NUM> having a first end 1032a and a second end 1032b, and a third cut <NUM> through the cover <NUM> extending from the first cut <NUM> to the second cut <NUM>. This particular orientation of cuts is also referred to as an "H" cut. Although in this embodiment the "H" cut is located near the center of the cover <NUM>, the skilled artisan will realize that the "H" cut could be in any location along the cover, for example closer to the first side wall <NUM> or the second side wall <NUM>. The "H" cut can be formed by punching, cutting, or through the use of a laser, or by any other technique known to those skilled in the art. The "H" cut provides a portion of the cover <NUM> that is weakened. This weakened portion can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the cover <NUM>.

Bag 1001a can be opened by pulling the portion of the cover <NUM> on either (or both) end of the third cut <NUM>, which exposes a weakened area comprising a series of perforations defining a line on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1001a proximal to the single <NUM> (or double) fold at the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1001a. This weakened portion can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the bag 1001a, including, but not limited to, the sealed single <NUM> (or double) fold. Although not shown in this embodiment, it will be understood that the first cut <NUM> and/or second cut <NUM> can be larger or smaller, and can extend any distance from the first ends 1031a and 1032a and second ends 1031b and 1032b, respectively, of the first <NUM> and second <NUM> cut toward the opposite side walls of the bag, for example covering <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>% or about <NUM>% of the distance from the third cut to the opposite sides of the bag.

Referring to <FIG>, a front side view of another embodiment of a bag 1001b is shown. Bag 1001b also has a front wall <NUM>, a back wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM>, a second side wall <NUM>, a flush cut top end <NUM>, and a pinch cut bottom end <NUM>. Bag 1001b also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> comprising a cover <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1001b and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a triangular or carat shape having a first end 1021a and a second end 1021b through the cover <NUM>. Bag 1001b can be opened by pulling the full cut <NUM> across the cover <NUM>, exposing a weakened area comprising a plurality of perforations defining a line on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1001b. The weakened area of the bag 1001b can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the bag 1001b.

Referring to <FIG>, a front side view of another embodiment of a flush cut bag 1001c is shown. Bag 1001c also has a front wall <NUM>, a back wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM>, a second side wall <NUM>, a top end <NUM>, and a bottom end <NUM>. Bag 1001c also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> comprising a first cover <NUM> that covers a weakened portion of the bag 1001c proximal to the sealed single fold <NUM> (in other embodiments this could be a double fold) at the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1001a. In this embodiment the first cover <NUM> comprises a first cut <NUM> through the first cover <NUM> having a first end 1031a and a second end 1031b, a second cut <NUM> through the first cover <NUM> having a first end 1032a and a second end 1032b, and a third cut <NUM> through the first cover <NUM> extending from the first cut <NUM> to the second cut <NUM>. Once again, this particular orientation of cuts is also referred to as an "H" cut. In this embodiment the "H" cut is covered by a second cover <NUM> having a pull tab <NUM>. Bag 1001c can be opened by pulling the pull tab <NUM>, thus removing the second cover <NUM> from the "H" cut, and then pulling the portion of the first cover <NUM> on either (or both) end of the third cut <NUM>, which exposes a weakened area comprising a plurality of perforations defining a line on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1001c near the sealed single <NUM> (or double) fold at the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1001c. This weakened area can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the bag 1001c, including, but not limited to, the sealed single <NUM> (or double) fold.

Referring to <FIG>, a front side view of another embodiment of a bag 1001d is shown. Bag 1001d also has a front wall <NUM>, a back wall <NUM>, a first side wall <NUM>, a second side wall <NUM>, a flush cut top end <NUM>, and a pinch cut bottom end <NUM>. Bag 1001d also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> comprising a first cover <NUM>, which in this embodiment is near the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1001d and comprises a full cut <NUM> in a triangular or carat shape having a first end 1021a and a second end 1021b through the first cover <NUM>. In this embodiment the full cut <NUM> is covered by a second cover <NUM> having a pull tab <NUM>. Bag 1001d can be opened by pulling the pull tab <NUM>, thus removing the second cover <NUM> from the full cut <NUM>, and then pulling the full cut <NUM> across the first cover <NUM>, exposing a weakened area comprising a plurality of perforations defining a line on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1001d. The weakened area of the bag 1001d can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the bag 1001d.

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of one embodiment of a "pinch cut" bag 1100a is shown. As shown in <FIG>, the bag 1100a has a first or top end <NUM> and a second or bottom end <NUM>. Once again, it will be apparent, however, that the orientation of the bag ends <NUM> and <NUM> is unimportant and the "top" and "bottom" references are useful but may change depending on the orientation one views the bag. In the embodiment shown in <FIG> both of the ends of the bag 1100a have a "pinch cut. " The bag 1100a has a front wall or surface <NUM> with top end <NUM>, a rear wall or surface <NUM>, and two side walls <NUM> and <NUM>. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that conventional techniques can be used to provide side gussets in the bag 1100a for each of sides <NUM> and <NUM> during this forming process. The first end <NUM> of bag 1100a has portions 1112a and 1112b of the rear wall or surface <NUM> of the bag that extend further from the body of the bag 1100a than do portions 1114a and 1114b of the material of bag 1100a forming the side gussets for sides <NUM> and <NUM>. In addition, the portions 1114a and 1114b of the side gussets extend further from the body of the bag 1100a than the top end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100a. As shown in <FIG>, the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100a has an end portion <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the bag that does not extend as far from the body of the bag 1100a as the end portions 1114a and 1114b of the side gussets or the end portions 1112a and 1112b of the rear wall of the first end <NUM> of the bag 1100a. Bag 1100a also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> comprising a cover <NUM> near the bottom end <NUM> of the bag <NUM>100a. In this embodiment the cover <NUM> comprises a full cut <NUM> in a rectangular shape having a first end 1121a and a second end 1121b through the cover <NUM>. Bag 1100a can be opened by pulling the full cut <NUM> across the cover <NUM>, exposing a weakened area comprising a plurality of perforations defining a line on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100a. The weakened area on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100a can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the bag 1100a.

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of another embodiment of a bag 1100b is shown. As shown in <FIG>, the bag 1100b has a pinch cut first or top end <NUM> and a flush cut second or bottom end <NUM>. The bag 1100b has a front wall or surface <NUM> with top end <NUM>, a rear wall or surface <NUM>, and two side walls <NUM> and <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of bag 1100b has portions 1112a and 1112b of the rear wall or surface <NUM> of the bag that extend further from the body of the bag 1100b than do portions 1114a and 1114b of the material of bag 1100b forming the side gussets for sides <NUM> and <NUM>. In addition, the portions 1114a and 1114b of the side gussets extend further from the body of the bag 1100b than the top end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100b. As shown in <FIG>, the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100b has an end portion <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the bag that does not extend as far from the body of the bag 1100b as the end portions 1114a and 1114b of the side gussets or the end portions 1112a and 1112b of the rear wall of the first end <NUM> of the bag 1100b. In addition, the bottom end <NUM> of bag 1100b is sealed using a single fold <NUM> (in other embodiments this can be a double fold). Bag 1100b also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> comprising a cover <NUM>, proximal to the sealed single <NUM> (or double) fold at the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1100b. The cover <NUM> comprises a first cut <NUM> through the cover <NUM> having a first end 1031a and a second end 1031b, a second cut <NUM> through the cover <NUM> having a first end 1032a and a second end 1032b, and a third cut <NUM> through the cover <NUM> extending from the first cut <NUM> to the second cut <NUM>. Once again, this particular orientation of cuts is also referred to as an "H" cut. Bag 1100b can be opened by pulling the portion of the cover <NUM> on either (or both) end of the third cut <NUM>, which exposes a weakened area comprising a plurality of perforations defining a line on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100b. The weakened area on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100b can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the bag 1100b, including, but not limited to, the sealed single <NUM> (or double) fold.

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of one embodiment of a "pinch cut" bag 1100c is shown. As shown in <FIG>, the bag 1100c has a first or top end <NUM> and a second or bottom end <NUM>. Once again, it will be apparent, however, that the orientation of the bag ends <NUM> and <NUM> is unimportant and the "top" and "bottom" references are useful but may change depending on the orientation one views the bag. In the embodiment shown in <FIG> both of the ends of the bag 1100c have a "pinch cut. " The bag 1100c has a front wall or surface <NUM> with top end <NUM>, a rear wall or surface <NUM>, and two side walls <NUM> and <NUM>. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that conventional techniques can be used to provide side gussets in the bag 1100c for each of sides <NUM> and <NUM> during this forming process. The first end <NUM> of bag 1100c has portions 1112a and 1112b of the rear wall or surface <NUM> of the bag that extend further from the body of the bag 1100c than do portions 1114a and 1114b of the material of bag 1100c forming the side gussets for sides <NUM> and <NUM>. In addition, the portions 1114a and 1114b of the side gussets extend further from the body of the bag 1100c than the top end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100c. As shown in <FIG>, the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100c has an end portion <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the bag that does not extend as far from the body of the bag 1100c as the end portions 1114a and 1114b of the side gussets or the end portions 1112a and 1112b of the rear wall of the first end <NUM> of the bag 1100c. Bag 1100c also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> comprising a first cover <NUM> near the bottom end <NUM> of the bag <NUM>100c. In this embodiment the first cover <NUM> comprises a full cut <NUM> in a rectangular shape having a first end 1121a and a second end 1121b through the first cover <NUM>, and a second cover <NUM> having a pull tab <NUM> covering the full cut <NUM> in the first cover <NUM>. Bag 1100c can be opened by pulling the pull tab <NUM>, thus removing the second cover <NUM> from the full cut <NUM>, and then pulling the full cut <NUM> across the first cover <NUM>, exposing a weakened area comprising a plurality of perforations defining a line on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100c. The weakened area on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100c can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the bag 1100c.

Referring to <FIG>, the front side view of another embodiment of a bag 1100d is shown. As shown in <FIG>, the bag 1100d has a pinch cut first or top end <NUM> and a flush cut second or bottom end <NUM>. The bag 1100d has a front wall or surface <NUM> with top end <NUM>, a rear wall or surface <NUM>, and two side walls <NUM> and <NUM>. The first end <NUM> of bag 1100d has portions 1112a and 1112b of the rear wall or surface <NUM> of the bag that extend further from the body of the bag 1100d than do portions 1114a and 1114b of the material of bag 1100d forming the side gussets for sides <NUM> and <NUM>. In addition, the portions 1114a and 1114b of the side gussets extend further from the body of the bag 1100d than the top end <NUM> of the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100d. As shown in <FIG>, the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100d has an end portion <NUM> at the first end <NUM> of the bag that does not extend as far from the body of the bag 1100d as the end portions 1114a and 1114b of the side gussets or the end portions 1112a and 1112b of the rear wall of the first end <NUM> of the bag 1100d. In addition, the bottom end <NUM> of bag 1100d is sealed using a single fold <NUM> (in other embodiments this can be a double fold). Bag 1100d also comprises an easy open feature <NUM> comprising a first cover <NUM>, which in this embodiment is proximal to the sealed single <NUM> (or double) fold at the bottom end <NUM> of the bag 1100b. The first cover <NUM> comprises a first cut <NUM> through the first cover <NUM> having a first end 1031a and a second end 1031b, a second cut <NUM> through the first cover <NUM> having a first end 1032a and a second end 1032b, and a third cut <NUM> through the first cover <NUM> extending from the first cut <NUM> to the second cut <NUM>. Once again, this particular orientation of cuts is also referred to as an "H" cut. Bag 1100d also has a second cover <NUM> having a pull tab <NUM> that covers the "H" cut. Bag 1100d can be opened by pulling the pull tab <NUM> thus removing the second cover <NUM> from the "H" cut, and pulling the portion of the first cover <NUM> on either (or both) end of the third cut <NUM>, which exposes a weakened area comprising a plurality of perforations defining a line on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100c. The weakened area on the front wall <NUM> of the bag 1100c can be opened with less force than required to open or tear other portions of the bag 1100c, including, but not limited to, the sealed single <NUM> (or double) fold.

Claim 1:
A bag comprising a front wall, a back wall, an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top end, a bottom end, a first layer and a second layer, each of the front wall and back wall having an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top end and a bottom end, wherein the first layer comprises a woven polymer, and the second layer comprises a polymer film laminated to the first layer, and wherein the bag comprises an easy open feature having a weakened area, the weakened area comprising a plurality of perforations defining a line, wherein the plurality of perforations penetrate through at least a portion of the front wall, the back wall, or a combination thereof, and wherein the first layer comprises polypropylene, high density polyethylene, low density polyethylene, polyester, or any combination thereof, the second layer comprises polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, or any combination thereof, and wherein the bag can be opened at the plurality of perforations with less force than required to open other portions of the bag.