Patent Description:
Flexible pouches made of polymeric film and filled with a consumable product are commonly produced on equipment having an array of pouch forming, mold configurations. These pouch forming mold configurations are often incorporated into a rotating drum, or axially movable platen. Examples of such forming, filling and sealing systems include <CIT>, and <CIT>. Other examples include <CIT> and <CIT>.

Machines or systems are known for forming flexible sealed pouches or packages containing a consumable product. Such pouches may be made from two continuous films in which a first or base film is vacuum formed to define a pocket to be filled with one or more products or materials and subsequently closed by a second or lid film. Some more recent configurations include multiple compartment pouches and pouches in which more than two films are employed. Particularly suitable applications for flexible packages from water soluble film, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) involve manufacture of individual dosage pouches of laundry detergent and/or dish washing detergent, though other commercial applications are also known.

The nature of the forming process, heating a polymeric film and drawing the film into mold configurations defining cavities or depressions in the film support surface necessarily stretches the film in certain areas to conform with the mold cavity profile. This reduces the original thickness in areas of stretch with a resultant film weakening. It is therefore common practice to design the mold configurations with smooth transition sections having large radii corners between adjoining wall portions to minimize excessive localized stretch and consequent strength reduction.

Moreover, the accepted processing limitation established by film suppliers and followed by pouch manufacturers is that a given film typically should not be stretched to more than twice its pre-forming area. That is, the surface area of unformed film overlying a mold configuration cavity should not be expanded to more than twice this original area.

Heretofore, efforts to provide sharp corner profiles in flexible pouches have been limited to low volume profiles utilizing gradually sloped mold surfaces. This approach has had limited application because it limits the internal volume of the pouch, or increases its overall size, leading to increased cost in film material and processing complexity. Such profiles have heretofore been limited to secondary or ancillary pockets affixed to a main pouch made under traditional forming guidelines. Moreover, these secondary or ancillary pockets require an additional film layer further increasing overall material cost and processing complexity.

Thus, with known systems, it was not possible to produce pouches from two film layers with sharp definition corner profiles and adequate volume capacity in an acceptable pouch size. The present disclosure provides apparatus, mold configurations and methodology to produce pouches with sharp corner definition, which will satisfy the previously unfilled need in the industry. It also provides a simplified approach to forming and filling any shape pouch of polymeric material.

Document <CIT> relates to a method and an apparatus for thermoforming bodies in plastic material by means of a mold. In particular, <CIT> discloses a method and an apparatus for thermoforming bodies in plastic material by means of a mold. A sheet of thermoformable plastic material is heated to a plasticization temperature, supporting it along its peripheral edges. The heated sheet is pre-shaped to create an enrichment of material, performing a sag by relative movements for approaching, raising and/or rotating its peripheral edges, maintaining the plastic sheet in a suspended condition. The pre-shaped sheet is then brought into close contact with the mold and vacuum-formed making it adhere to the shaping surface of the mold.

Document <CIT> provides a pouch for containing a food product such as shredded cheese, and a method and apparatus for forming, filling and sealing the pouch. Specifically, <CIT> discloses a pouch for containing a food product such as shredded cheese, and a method and apparatus for forming, filling and sealing the pouch. The method involves providing one or more webs of material to define a pair of walls for the pouch, orienting the web material so that the walls are substantially vertical, with the web having a horizontal longitudinal axis; providing interengageable strips of reclosable fastener material along the web adjacent the lower edges of the walls; forming vertical side seals; filling the pouches through their open bottoms while in inverted orientation; and sealing the bottoms of the pouches. Each of the strips of reclosable fastener material has one or more fastener members thereon. A peelable seal is provided between the product contained in the interior of the pouch and the reclosable fastener members. The peelable seal is preferably formed on the fastener strip material. The peelable seal is sealed prior to filling of the pouches so that product cannot contact the fastener members, and the fastener members are outside of the hermetic seal area. The pouch is preferably provided with a hole above the fastener members to receive a display hanger, and has a line of perforation above the fastener members and above the hole to facilitate removal of the upper portion of the pouch.

Document <CIT> relates to a method of packaging and a machine capable of forming packages having a casing and a covering film. In particular, <CIT> discloses a capsule for beverages comprising a casing in turn comprising a base wall and a side wall defining a cavity suitable for containing an initial product to be combined with a fluid to obtain an end product, and further an edge extending from the side wall. The capsule further comprises a covering element fixed to the edge to close the cavity hermetically, which is pierceable by extracting means of a dispensing machine wherein said capsule is usable. The casing is made by forming a sheet of thermoformable plastics and the edge comprises a sealing element comprising at least one protrusion facing the base wall that is also obtainable by said sheet forming that defines at least one further cavity suitable for containing a fluid, for example air or inert gas. The covering element is fixed to seal hermetically also the further cavity so as to create a cushion that is deformable between the edge and the covering element that defines the sealing element arranged for sealingly engaging, when compressed, with abutting means of a dispensing machine.

Document <CIT> provides a machine for forming packages from a pair of continuous webs and a respective production apparatus and method. Specifically, <CIT> discloses a method of packaging and machine capable of continuously forming an array of packages from a double web film. A first web is fed over a rotating thermoforming drum which vacuum forms a plurality of pouches for receiving a product to be packaged, and a second web, maintained under constant pressure, is progressively disposed in sealing relation to the peripheral edges of the formed pouches in the first web as the pouches approach a vertical position while the product is simultaneously introduced into the progressively formed package at a rate not exceeding the volume of the package as it is formed.

Document <CIT> relates to an antipilferage package and a method for making the same. In particular, <CIT> discloses a package for holding an article having a front portion with a sheet generally defining a plane and having an outer rim. The package also has a back portion with an area and an outer periphery. The back portion is configured to be secured to said front portion. An inner opening is defined by the back portion so that the inner opening has an area substantially smaller than the area of the back portion. A separately formed first blister is shaped for defining a first pocket configured for receiving at least a portion of the article. The first blister also has a peripheral edge configured for attachment to the back portion in a region of the inner opening of the back portion.

Document <CIT> discloses a process and a plant for manufacturing double-pouch containers. Specifically, <CIT> discloses a process and a plant for forming double-pouch containers, wherein two continuous external ribbons, facing one another, are fed in an advancement direction to an infeeding zone where a third, central ribbons is inserted between the external ribbons. The pouches are formed by injecting a forming fluid between the external ribbons in order to determine an expansion thereof against compartments of two half-moulds having a shape which corresponds to a final pouch shape. Each container has two similar pouches, one facing another, which are defined by a pair of external walls and by a central wall coupled along a perimeter thereof to the external walls. The process enables rapid and economical formation of double-pouch containers.

Document <CIT> describes a lid film for food packaging. In particular, <CIT> discloses a lid film for packaging of e.g. human or pet food. The lid film has a multi-layer structure and comprises a sealing layer, a barrier layer, a print primer layer, a print layer, an optional print protection layer, and a relief layer. The sealing layer, the barrier layer, the print primer layer, the print layer and the optional print protection layer are essentially flat. The relief layer is arranged at least on a part of the print layer and comprises at least n three dimensional structures per cm2 projecting at an essentially right angle from a surface of the adjacent print layer or the optional print protection layer and said three dimensional structures forming an non-continuous elevated surface, whereby the total of said elevated surface area formed by the three dimensional structures equals at least m% of a total surface area of the lid film and whereby the three dimensional structures have a minimal height of 5pm.

Document <CIT> discloses a child resistant tablet package. Specifically, <CIT> discloses a child resistant package for tablets. The package includes an outer sleeve and a blister package. The blister package is designed to fit within the outer sleeve, and is capable of being slid from a closed position to an open position. The blister package includes a blister sheet and a lidding material sheet that is peeled from the blister sheet to access the tablets.

Document <CIT> relates to a packaging method and apparatus. In particular, <CIT> discloses a packaging machine for sealing product in a film, said machine including: a carrier trained for movement along a given path, said carrier having a line of cavities in said path, each of said cavities having a vacuum port therein, said carrier having a relatively smooth peripheral surface surrounding each cavity; means connected to said carrier to move said carrier in a given direction along said path; means to supply a first continuous ribbon of said film to be drawn over the carrier and to apply it over each cavity and the surface thereabout at a point along said path; means connected to said ports to apply a vacuum to the port of each cavity after the cavity passes said point to draw the film into the cavity and define a pocket in the film; means to fill said pockets with product; means beyond said filling means in said direction to lay a second ribbon of film over the pockets and portions of the first ribbon about the pockets and to press the two films together to enclose the product in each pocket in film to form a package, the last means including a device to apply a liquid to the face of the second film, at least in the areas which will contact the first film, in a quantity sufficient to render the second film tacky without destroying the film; and means to remove each package from its cavity. <CIT> also discloses a method of filling with particulate material the pockets of a packaging machine having a drum with peripheral cavities over which a ribbon of film is laid by a roller about a portion of which the film travels with the film being drawn into the cavities by vacuum to define pockets to receive the product, said method comprising the steps of: as each pocket is in the vicinity of the top of the drum forming a mound of material in each pocket of a given height greater than the top of the pocket but of a total volume less than the volume of the pocket; thereafter projecting a blade member into said pocket to flatten the top of the mound to a level below the top of the pocket with at least a portion of the excess material filling any voids about the sides of the pocket; and thereafter wiping the film surrounding the pocket and leveling off the material in the pocket to the level of the top of the pocket.

Documents <CIT>; <CIT> and <CIT> essentially disclose mold configurations in accordance with the preamble of claim <NUM> and corresponding methods of forming containment pouches.

It is disclosed, a mold configuration for forming a pocket in a film comprising: a film support surface; a perimeter edge at the film support surface; wall surfaces inward of the perimeter edge defining a mold cavity; the wall surfaces including transition wall surfaces extending to a bottom wall surface; and a plateau surface inward of the perimeter edge. In one form the perimeter edge includes sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions defining at least one sharp corner profile.

In accordance with the disclosure, said perimeter edge may include sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions defining at least one sharp corner profile; and said inward edge surfaces may extend between said sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions and said plateau surface of said at least one sharp corner profile.

In accordance with the disclosure, one of said transition wall surfaces may extend between said bottom wall surface and said plateau surface of said at least one sharp corner profile.

In accordance with the disclosure, said transition wall surfaces may extend between said bottom wall surface and the plateau surfaces of the sharp corner profiles.

In accordance with the disclosure, said sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions defining said at least one sharp corner profile may be straight or slightly curved, and may meet at an intersection or vertex having a radius of between about <NUM> and about <NUM>.

In accordance with the disclosure, said perimeter edge may include plural sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions defining plural sharp corner profiles, each said sharp corner profile including a plateau surface inward of said sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions.

In accordance with the disclosure, inward edge surfaces may extend between said sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions and said plateau surfaces of each said sharp corner profiles.

In accordance with the disclosure, a transition wall surface may extend between said bottom wall surface and said plateau surface of each said sharp corner profiles.

In accordance with the disclosure, said wall surfaces may further include side wall surfaces extending inward from said perimeter edge and merging with said transition wall surfaces, and said side wall surfaces, transition wall surfaces and bottom wall surface defining a fill volume sized to receive a delivered product component.

In accordance with the disclosure, said plateau surfaces may be spaced inward of said film support surface a distance only sufficient to prevent adherence of a lid film to a base film overlying said plateau surfaces while limiting deformation or stretch of the film into the mold configuration from the film support surface.

In accordance with the disclosure, said sharp corner profiles may include sharp corner edge portions defining acute and obtuse angles.

In accordance with the disclosure, said plateau surface may be continuous about said perimeter edge.

In accordance with the disclosure, said inward edge surfaces of each sharp corner profile may be disposed at ninety degrees (<NUM>°) to each other.

In particular, a mold configuration for forming a pocket in a film in accordance with the present invention is defined by the features of claim <NUM>.

It is further disclosed a method of forming a pouch having at least one sharp corner profile, using a mold configuration for forming a pocket in a film comprising: a film support surface; a perimeter edge at the film support surface; wall surfaces extending inward of the perimeter edge defining a mold cavity; the wall surfaces including transition wall surfaces extending to a bottom wall surface, the perimeter edge includes sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions defining at least one sharp corner profile; and a plateau surface inward of the sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions; the steps comprising: supporting a base film on the film support surface overlying the mold configuration; applying a vacuum to the mold configuration to cause the base film to form a pocket conforming to the shape of the mold configuration; filling the pocket with at least one product component; adhering a lid film to the base film laterally of the perimeter edge of the mold configuration.

In accordance with the disclosure, wherein said perimeter edge may include plural sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions defining plural sharp corner profiles, each said sharp corner profile including a plateau surface inward of said sharp corner profile perimeter edge portions; wherein said plateau surfaces may be spaced inward of said film support surface a distance only sufficient to prevent adherence of a lid film to a base film overlying said plateau surfaces.

In accordance with the disclosure, during said forming step said film overlying said plateau surfaces may be stretched less than twice its original area.

In particular, a method for forming a pouch in accordance with the present invention is defined by the features of claim <NUM>.

It is further disclosed a pressurized product containment pouch of polymeric film, comprising: a base film defining a pocket portion, a lid film defining a lid portion, the films joined about a perimeter seal seam defining a hollow containment chamber containing a product under pressure, the pouch perimeter seal seam including: at least one sharp corner profile comprising straight or slightly curved seal seam portions meeting at an intersection or vertex to form an angle.

In accordance with the disclosure, said straight or slightly curved seal seam portions may meet at an intersection or vertex having a radius of between about <NUM> and about <NUM>.

In accordance with the disclosure, said peripheral seal seam of said pouch may include multiple sharp corner profiles.

In accordance with the disclosure, said pouch may be generally rectangular.

In accordance with the disclosure, said pouch may be generally star shaped.

In accordance with the disclosure, said sharp corner profiles may define acute and obtuse angles.

In accordance with the disclosure, said pouch may include multiple compartments containing a product component.

Turning now to the drawings, <FIG> are illustrative of a known flexible containment pouch <NUM> formed by joinder of two polymeric films. <FIG> is illustrative of a conventional mold configuration <NUM> for producing the pouch of <FIG>.

The films could be water soluble polyvinyl alcohol, though other films could be used. The films used are "soft" and form "soft" blisters once thermoformed from PVA, polyethylene, or other suitable polymeric film. For such soft types of film, this disclosure provides the means to form pouches with sharp corner profiles, without undo thinning of the film that could compromise strength of the pouch film, possibly causing leakage.

Typical film thicknesses for soft blister pouches are <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM>" to <NUM>") thick. The formed stock, sometimes called the base film is typically around <NUM> (<NUM>" ) thick and the lid stock or lid film is typically thinner, usually around <NUM> (<NUM>") thick, though these thicknesses not requisite for the principles of this disclosure. It should be understood that the pouch and apparatus of <FIG> are merely exemplary of known technology and are not limiting of the disclosure.

Referring to <FIG>, pouch <NUM> includes a base film <NUM> and a lid film <NUM> joined along a sealed interface <NUM>. It defines a hollow interior volume containing a product component <NUM>, in this illustration, a liquid composition. The pouch <NUM> is generally rectangular with a hollow volume defined by a sealed perimeter seal seam <NUM>. Perimeter seal seam <NUM> includes, generally, straight perimeter side seal seam portions <NUM> joined by corner seal seam portions <NUM> defined by a generous radius, for example, <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM>" (inch)).

<FIG> is a schematic representation of a rotary pouch forming apparatus or system suitable for forming a plurality of the pouches <NUM> depicted in <FIG>, pouches <NUM> depicted in <FIG>, or pouches depicted in <FIG> or <FIG>, all as discussed further below. The pouch forming apparatus is generally similar to that disclosed in aforementioned <CIT>. Pouches <NUM> could, however, also be produced on a moveable platen, or other suitable machine.

A base forming drum <NUM> includes multiple rows of mold configurations <NUM> to produce multiple pouches simultaneously. Typically, the rotary drum <NUM> is formed of a plurality of long bars <NUM> supported on a wheel and defining an outer smooth film support surface <NUM>. Each bar <NUM> includes multiple mold configurations <NUM>, one of which is seen in <FIG>, extending inward of the drum from smooth film support surface <NUM> along a perimeter edge <NUM>. "Mold configuration" referred to herein, is a configuration of surfaces forming a void or cavity to receive the vacuum formed base stock film.

In this disclosure, for ease of description, the term "inward" means from the drum smooth film support surface <NUM> toward a bottom surface of the cavity of a mold configuration. "Outward" means in the opposite direction. "Laterally" means along the smooth film support surface <NUM>, away from the perimeter edge of a mold configuration in that surface. Also, in reference to the film or web, "longitudinally" means along the length of the web material. "Transversely" means across the web or film from edge-to-edge.

The pouch forming apparatus additionally includes a vacuum system <NUM>, a heater system <NUM>, a product feed mechanism <NUM>, a wetting system <NUM>, a sealing system <NUM>, a cutting system <NUM>, and rolls of material that supply base film <NUM>, and lid film <NUM>.

Vacuum system indicated generally at <NUM> in <FIG>, includes conduits <NUM>, operatively connected to each mold configuration <NUM> to create a vacuum to draw a portion of the base film <NUM> into the mold cavities to form pockets <NUM>, seen in <FIG>, in base film <NUM>. Such a vacuum system is well known in the art. A drive system (not shown) is operatively connected to the base forming drum <NUM> to rotate the drum continuously in direction "A.

The heater system <NUM> is depicted as a rotatable base film heater roller <NUM> positioned adjacent the base forming drum <NUM>. It includes an internal element to heat the base film <NUM> prior to it contacting the smooth film support surface <NUM> of base forming drum <NUM> or being drawn into mold configurations <NUM> to form pockets <NUM>. The heater system <NUM> may be configured as a cartridge-type heater within the base film heater roller <NUM> but other types of heaters, either internal or external to a roller, may be used if desired. In a typical method of thermoforming, for example, PVA or similar film, on a rotary drum form fill and seal pouch machine, the film is heated to a range of <NUM>° C to <NUM>° C (<NUM>° F to <NUM>° F) depending on film thickness, type of film and other well-known operational parameters.

A product feed mechanism <NUM> is positioned generally adjacent the base forming drum <NUM> to supply one or more product components into each pocket <NUM> as the pockets, together with base film <NUM>, move along with the outer smooth film support surface <NUM>. Product feed mechanisms <NUM> are well known in the art and may take any known form. Such mechanisms may be configured to feed any desired type of composition, number or combination of individual products and/or materials including a liquid, a gel, a solid, a powder, a paste or wax-type products, pills, tablets, or even other pouched products.

A supply roll of continuous film material provides the lid film <NUM>. The lid film <NUM> is aligned with the base film <NUM> so as to come into overlying contact with the base film <NUM> after the filling of the pockets <NUM> in the base film. The illustrated lid wetting system <NUM> helps create a strong seal between the base film and lid film. It is positioned adjacent the lid film <NUM> at a position upstream of where the lid film <NUM> seals the base film <NUM> at the base forming drum <NUM>. The lid wetting system <NUM> may apply a solvent to the lid film <NUM> to increase its tackiness to assist in adhering the lid film <NUM> to the base film <NUM>. To do so, the solvent may be provided through a wetting reservoir <NUM> to a wetting roller <NUM> that engages the lid film <NUM>. In instances where the base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> are formed of a polyvinyl alcohol material, the solvent for the lid wetting system <NUM> may be water.

A sealing system <NUM> having a sealing roller <NUM> is positioned in close contacting relation to the smooth film support surface <NUM> of base forming drum <NUM>. Lid film <NUM> passes around sealing roller <NUM> and is urged into sealing contact with base film <NUM> to urge the contacting surfaces of base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> into adhering, sealed relation. In this regard, the sealing roller <NUM> is mounted such that it applies pressure to the overlying films to perfect the sealing relationship. Sealing roller <NUM> may include an outer layer <NUM> formed of material that is deformable, such as a rubber or similar material, though this is not essential. Typically, this material has a thickness of about <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM>") and a durometer of about <NUM>, though these values may vary. The material, and the pressure exerted on the overlying films, assures affective contact of base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> along the sealed interface <NUM>. Of course, depending on the film material, it is also known to use heat, for example, ultrasonic welding or other similar process to seal the lid film and base film together to form a completed pouch.

A cutting system <NUM> may be positioned after, or downstream from the location at which the base film <NUM> and the lid film <NUM> are secured together. Cutting system <NUM> includes a series of transversely spaced apart slitting knives <NUM> that engage the combined films <NUM> and <NUM> to slit the films in a longitudinal direction along the outer surface of base forming drum <NUM> to create a plurality of longitudinal strips that each include a plurality of pouches <NUM>. A rotary knife <NUM> may be positioned after, or downstream from the slitting knife <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, in operation, a base film <NUM> such as a polyvinyl alcohol film is fed from its supply roll and passes around rotatable base heater roller <NUM> and is heated to a temperature sufficient to allow thermoforming. In one example, the temperature may be approximately <NUM>° C (<NUM>° F) but other temperatures may be utilized depending upon the material of the base film <NUM>, its thickness, and other manufacturing characteristics.

The heated base film <NUM> is routed over the smooth film support surface <NUM> of long bars <NUM> of base forming drum <NUM>. A vacuum applied to each mold configuration <NUM> deforms or stretches the base film <NUM> and pulls a portion of the heated film <NUM> into the mold cavity of each mold configuration to form base pockets <NUM> of the pouches <NUM>. Pockets <NUM> define a fill volume to receive the product component. As the base forming drum <NUM> is rotated and the base film advanced, the product feed mechanism <NUM> operates to fill each base pocket <NUM> to a desired level with one or more product components such as a liquid, a gel, or powdered detergent or other material. Traditionally, the size of the fill volume defined by the base pocket exceeds the volume of the delivered product component by about ten (<NUM>) percent.

As the pockets <NUM> in the base film <NUM> are being formed and filled, the lid film <NUM> is fed from its supply roll and passes around lid film sealing roller <NUM>. The lid film <NUM> is wetted by the lid wetting system <NUM>. In doing so, water or another solvent may be applied to the lid film <NUM> and the film becomes sufficiently tacky to ensure securing the lid film <NUM> to the base film <NUM> along the overlying portions of the film to form sealed interface <NUM>.

The film sealing roller <NUM> applies pressure and forces the base film <NUM> and the lid film <NUM> into contact with sufficient pressure to cause the two films to bond together at the seal interface <NUM> and seal the pockets <NUM> and form the pouches <NUM>. The lid film <NUM>, positioned in overlying relation to the base film <NUM> containing base pockets <NUM> filled with a desired composition or product. The lid film <NUM> is forcibly engaged with the base film <NUM> by sealing roller <NUM> acting against smooth surface <NUM> surrounding each mold configuration <NUM> to seal the films together along perimeter seal seam <NUM> and form completed containment pouches <NUM>. The films adhere to each other in areas where they are in contact at seal interface <NUM>. Consequently, the perimeter seal seam <NUM> of the sealed pouch replicates the shape of the perimeter edge <NUM> of mold configuration <NUM>.

The combined base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> continues to advance around the base forming drum <NUM> until reaching the cutting system <NUM>. Slitting knives <NUM> and rotary knife <NUM> cut the combined films into the individual pouches <NUM>, having a surrounding rectangular flange <NUM>. The individual pouches <NUM> are discharged onto conveyor <NUM> for further processing.

<FIG> illustrates the shape of pouch <NUM> of <FIG> after filling with product and sealing of base pocket <NUM> with lid film <NUM>, but before it is removed from the mold cavity <NUM>. As is well known, after release of the completed pouch from the mold cavity, internal pressure and the memory of the formed film causes it to try to return to its unstretched state and the pouch assumes the bulbous or "blister" shape seen in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a single mold configuration <NUM> that defines a mold cavity to form pocket <NUM> of base film <NUM>. The mold configuration illustrated in <FIG> is approximately <NUM> mmm (<NUM>-<NUM>/<NUM> inches) long (transversely), <NUM> (<NUM>-<NUM>/<NUM> inches) wide (longitudinally) and <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inches) deep. As explained, multiples of such mold configurations <NUM> are formed into the smooth film support surface <NUM> defined by long bars <NUM> of base forming drum <NUM>. In this way multiple pouches are formed simultaneously. Mold configuration <NUM> is generally rectangular to produce the pouch <NUM> of <FIG>. Of course, the shape is merely illustrative. Numerous other pouch shapes are known, and produced.

The mold configuration <NUM> defines a void or cavity extending inward from a perimeter edge <NUM> at smooth film support surface <NUM> of the base forming drum <NUM>. The maximum depth of the cavity is defined by a bottom wall surface <NUM>. Bottom wall surface <NUM> includes a number of vacuum ports <NUM> in communication with conduits <NUM> to create the vacuum or negative pressure within the mold configuration <NUM>.

The illustrated mold configuration <NUM> includes four straight side wall surfaces <NUM> joined by curved transition wall surfaces <NUM> extending to bottom wall surface <NUM> from perimeter edge <NUM>. The side wall surfaces <NUM> and transition wall surfaces <NUM> extend inward of perimeter edge <NUM> perpendicular to, or at a slight relief angle to, smooth film support surface <NUM>.

The perimeter edge <NUM> is comprised of side edge portions <NUM> and transition edge portion 126T. The perimeter edge side edge portions <NUM> represent the intersection of side wall surfaces <NUM> with smooth film support surface <NUM> and, in this conventional mold configuration, the perimeter edge transition edge portions 126T represent the intersection of transition wall surfaces <NUM> with smooth film support surface <NUM>. The transition wall surfaces <NUM> are typically formed on a relatively large radius, about <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inch) or more. The side wall surfaces <NUM> and transition wall surfaces <NUM> join bottom wall surface <NUM> at a radius fillet <NUM>, generally about <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inch), to define a fill volume for base pocket <NUM> sufficient to receive product component <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, perimeter seal seam <NUM> of pouch <NUM> includes side seal seam portions <NUM> and corner seal seam portions <NUM> having a radius defined by the shape of transition edge portion 126T. The pouch shape thus replicates the relatively large radii of transition wall surfaces <NUM> of mold configuration <NUM> at transition edge portions 126T.

In <FIG>, the imaginary lines "ST" indicate the demarcation between side wall surfaces <NUM> and transition wall surfaces <NUM> and, coincidentally, side edge portions <NUM> and transition edge portions 126T of perimeter edge <NUM>. At lines ST, transition wall surfaces <NUM> tangentially merge with side wall surfaces <NUM>. It is, of course, understood that this marking is for ease of understanding and that perimeter edge <NUM> is continuous and represents the perimeter definition of mold configuration <NUM> at smooth film support surface <NUM>.

The films <NUM> and <NUM> form a sealed interface <NUM> that extends laterally from perimeter seam <NUM> of each completed pouch <NUM>. That is, no adherence between films occurs over the void area where film <NUM> overlies base film <NUM> over pocket <NUM> represented by the cavity of mold configuration <NUM> within perimeter edge <NUM>.

Pouches formed of polymeric material such as polyvinyl alcohol are prone to shrinkage and distortion after forming, filling and sealing. When located in mold cavity <NUM>, the applied vacuum through ports <NUM> retains the shape illustrated in <FIG>. Once released, however, the pouch base pocket <NUM> shrinks to a smaller volume, sometimes up to twenty or more percent (<NUM> %) smaller. Because the pouch <NUM> is sealed, the shrinkage is accommodated with stretching of lid film <NUM> to form the shape shown in <FIG>. Often lid film <NUM> is a thinner material than base film <NUM> to augment the expansion characteristic of lid film.

In the thermoforming process, the film <NUM> is drawn into the mold cavity of the mold configuration. The film in the center of the pouch form is drawn down into contact with the bottom wall surface <NUM> of the mold configuration <NUM>. When the film contacts bottom surface <NUM>, heat dissipates and the film essentially ceases to stretch further. After the first contact of the film to the bottom wall surface <NUM> of the mold cavity, the film continues to be drawn into contact with the other surfaces of the mold configuration. Only the film that has not yet contacted the bottom surface of the mold configuration <NUM> continues to stretch spreading out over the bottom surface <NUM> until it is in contact with the entire cavity defining surfaces, including side wall surfaces <NUM> and transition wall surfaces <NUM>. The film that contacts the mold configuration last is the film that has been stretched the most and is the thinnest film. It is the film at the radius fillet <NUM> overlying the junction of the bottom wall surface <NUM> of the mold cavity with the four side wall surfaces <NUM> and the four transition wall surfaces <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>.

The shape of the mold configuration <NUM>, particularly the transition edge portions 126T of perimeter edge <NUM> and the relatively large radius of transition wall surfaces <NUM>, is intended to provide for uniform deformation or stretch of the base film <NUM> during vacuum forming. Optimally, film stretch is maintained within the established guidelines of no greater than two times the pre-stretched area of film overlying the mold configuration cavity. Excessive stretching or thinning of the deformed film that causes weak areas in the formed pouch, which could result in failure and/or leakage, is avoided.

All of the above-described machinery and processing steps are well known in the art. The purpose here was to explain the limitations inherent in manufacturing that have heretofore dictated the shape of the formed pouches. It has, and continues to be necessary, to avoid undue stretching or thinning of the polymeric films as it is processed. Mold configurations, such as mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG>, require relatively large radii along perimeter edge <NUM> to form the transition between film support surface <NUM> and the mold cavity defined by side wall surfaces <NUM> and transition wall surfaces <NUM> to control film deformation or stretch during forming.

The remainder of this description is directed to the concepts of this disclosure, which overcome the above-described limitations as well as obviating the need for long tapering transitions with low volume capacity. In accordance with this disclosure, pouches can be formed with sharp definition, i.e., sharp corner profiles, without sacrifice of strength of the film, or integrity of the formed pouches. Moreover, it is contemplated that the approach of this disclosure greatly simplifies the design and manufacture of mold configurations to create sharply defined shapes for polymeric pouches formed by vacuum forming.

Application of the principles of this disclosure provides the capability to form flexible, sealed pouches of consumable product configured to present a sharp corner profile. The term "sharp corner profile" is used here with reference to the shape of the mold configuration perimeter edge, and the shape of the resultant pouch seal seam. A sharp corner profile is defined by lines or surfaces, generally straight or slightly curved, that meet at an intersection or vertex to form an angle. The principles disclosed herein are considered beneficial to corner profiles having a radius as large as about <NUM> (<NUM>"). In employing such principles, corner profiles having a radius as small as about <NUM> (<NUM>") can be achieved. Accordingly, the term sharp corner profile is intended to embrace this entire spectrum. As will be described below, there may be more than four sharp corner profiles defined by a mold configuration perimeter edge or the seal seam of a resultant pouch.

An exemplary flexible product containing pouch with sharp corner profiles, designated <NUM>, is illustrated in <FIG>. It is but one such pouch embodiment. The specific shape is not a limitation on application of these principles. Numerous and varied shapes and configurations of pouches may be created which embody the concepts disclosed.

Pouch <NUM> includes a base film <NUM> defining base pocket <NUM> and a lid film <NUM> joined along a seal interface <NUM>, forming surrounding flange <NUM>. It includes a hollow interior volume defined by perimeter seal seam <NUM> containing a product component <NUM>, in this illustration, a liquid. Of course, any other desired product component is suitable to the pouch produced in accordance herewith.

The perimeter seal seam <NUM> includes generally straight perimeter side seal seam portions <NUM> joined by corner seal seam portions <NUM> that, in accordance with this disclosure, define a sharp corner profile.

<FIG> illustrate a mold configuration <NUM> for producing the pouch <NUM> of <FIG>. Mold configuration <NUM> defines a mold cavity extending inward from smooth film support surface <NUM> of a long bar <NUM>, multiples of which form a base forming drum similar to the drum <NUM> of <FIG>.

The mold cavity of mold configuration <NUM> extends inward of smooth film support surface <NUM> from perimeter edge <NUM>. It includes four side wall surfaces <NUM> joined by four transition wall surfaces <NUM> that extend to a bottom wall surface <NUM> at a generous radius fillet <NUM>, about <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inches). The bottom wall surface <NUM> includes a number of vacuum ports <NUM> in communication with conduits within the rotary drum to create a vacuum or negative pressure within the mold configuration <NUM>. In general, these features of the mold configuration parallel the mold configuration <NUM> of known design, seen in <FIG>.

In accordance with this disclosure and as seen in <FIG>, the perimeter edge <NUM> of the mold configuration differs significantly from perimeter edge <NUM> of the conventional mold configuration <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. Here, perimeter edge <NUM> includes side edge portions <NUM> joined by sharp corner edge portions 226C.

Sharp corner edge portions 226C are defined by the intersection of inward edge surfaces <NUM> with smooth film support surface <NUM>. Inward edge surfaces <NUM> are disposed in a sharp corner profile and extend inward from perimeter edge <NUM> of the mold cavity perpendicular, or at a slight relief angle, to smooth film support surface <NUM> to plateau surfaces <NUM>. In this regard, inward edge surfaces <NUM>, at perimeter edge <NUM> of mold configuration <NUM> define lines (sharp corner edge portions 226C) that are generally straight and meet at an intersection or vertex to form an angle within the sharp corner profile definition previously set forth.

It should be understood that the inward edge surfaces <NUM> need not be perpendicular to smooth film support surface <NUM>. It is only necessary that the inward depressions to plateau surfaces <NUM> be such that during deformation of the base film, no excessive or uneven stretching or thinning occur.

In particular reference to <FIG>, the plateau surfaces <NUM> present relieved areas in each corner of the mold configuration <NUM>, adjacent sharp corner perimeter edge portions 226C, but spaced inwardly from the smooth film support surface <NUM>. The inward spacing of the plateau surfaces <NUM> relative to the smooth film support surface <NUM> of the drum, represents the inward length of inward edge surfaces <NUM>. The inward spacing of the plateau surfaces <NUM> relative to the smooth film support surface <NUM> forming relieved areas is limited to permit the base film at those areas to be deformed or stretched only a relatively small amount below or inward from the smooth film support surface <NUM> during vacuum forming of the base film into the cavity of the mold configuration <NUM>. This minimal stretching or deformation ensures the integrity of the base film <NUM>, even though that stretching or deformation occurs in a sharp corner profile represented by sharp corner edge portions 226C. Importantly, the inward length of inward edge surfaces <NUM> should also be adequate to ensure that the lid film <NUM> and base film <NUM> do not adhere together in the areas overlying the plateau surfaces <NUM>. It, for example, may be approximately <NUM> (<NUM>"). In general, the plateau surfaces <NUM> at the four corners of the mold configuration <NUM> may be from <NUM> to <NUM> (<NUM>" to <NUM>") inward or below the smooth surface film support surface <NUM>.

The plateau surfaces <NUM> need not be planar or parallel to the smooth film support surface <NUM> of the drum or to each other. They could be formed, for example, at an angle extending inwardly from the inward edge surfaces <NUM>. It is only necessary that the plateau surfaces <NUM> be spaced inward of the smooth film support surface <NUM> so as to ensure minimal deformation or stretching of base film in these locations during vacuum forming and also provide sufficient spacing between base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> during pouch closure such that the lid film <NUM> does not adhere to the base film <NUM> at these locations.

As best seen in <FIG>, mold configuration <NUM> includes, as in the instance of mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG>, curved transition wall surfaces <NUM> that join generally straight side wall surfaces <NUM>. However, in this embodiment, transition wall surfaces <NUM> define transition edge portions 226T at the juncture of transition wall surfaces <NUM> with plateau surfaces <NUM>.

The mold configuration <NUM> side wall surfaces <NUM> and transition wall surfaces <NUM>, along with bottom wall surface <NUM> and radius fillet <NUM>, define a fill volume for base pocket <NUM> to receive the product component. Hence, this fill volume is inward of plateau surfaces <NUM>, though that is not essential. As in the conventional mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG>, the fill volume may exceed the volume of the product component <NUM> by about ten percent (<NUM>%). Notably, the configuration of the side wall surfaces <NUM>, transition wall surfaces <NUM> bottom wall surface <NUM> and radius fillet <NUM> represent a mold cavity configuration designed to ensure proper film stretch or deformation in accordance with conventional forming principles.

In <FIG>, the imaginary lines "ST" indicate the demarcation between side edge portions <NUM> and sharp corner edge portions 226C of perimeter edge <NUM> of mold configuration <NUM>, seen in <FIG>. Also, at lines ST, curved transition wall surfaces <NUM> tangentially merge with side wall portions <NUM>. Notably, each inward edge surface <NUM> extends along perimeter edge <NUM> from the corner intersection (vertex) with its associated inward edge surface <NUM> to the transition between associated side wall surfaces <NUM> and transition wall surfaces <NUM>. As seen in <FIG>, inward edge surfaces <NUM> merge or seamlessly blend into side wall surfaces <NUM> at imaginary lines ST.

Perimeter edge <NUM> is continuous and represents the perimeter definition of mold configuration <NUM>, in accordance with this disclosure. As in the known mold configuration of <FIG>, the perimeter edge <NUM> of the mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG>, defines the shape of the formed pouch. As in the known pouch of <FIG>, the perimeter edge <NUM> of the mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG> defines the perimeter seal seam <NUM> between the base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> on formation of a completed pouch <NUM>. Since the perimeter edge <NUM> sharp corner edge portions 226T present a sharp corner profile, the resultant pouch <NUM> presents that same shape, as illustrated in <FIG>.

In accordance with the disclosure, the pouch forming mold configuration <NUM> in the base film smooth support surface <NUM> has a generally rectangular perimeter edge <NUM>. That is, as seen in <FIG>, all corners of the mold configuration <NUM> are formed with sharp corner profiles. These corner profiles are defined by the intersection of the inward edge surfaces <NUM> defining the mold cavity and the smooth film support surface <NUM> of the drum surrounding the mold cavity. Here, straight lines defined by inward edge surfaces <NUM> intersect at a vertex and define corners having an angle of <NUM>° (degrees). This angle is not, however, essential. The lines defining the sharp corner profile may intersect at angles greater, or smaller, than <NUM>°, as illustrated in further embodiments described below and shown in <FIG>.

Manufacture of pouches such as illustrated in <FIG>, proceeds as in the manufacture of pouches illustrated in <FIG>. However, the rotary drum or platen of the form, fill and seal machine is provided with mold configurations <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. When the base film is drawn into the mold cavity of a mold configuration <NUM> and forms base pocket <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the base film overlying the relieved areas at plateau surfaces <NUM> is drawn inward and below the smooth film support <NUM> surface of the drum only to a level of plateau surfaces <NUM>. This depth is shallow enough to prevent any excessive stretching or thinning of the film in this area. While not considered essential to the process, the plateau surfaces <NUM> may also have vacuum ports <NUM> to ensure contact of base film with these surfaces. This option is illustrated in <FIG>.

The balance of the base pocket <NUM> is drawn into the mold cavity defined by side wall surfaces <NUM>, transition wall surfaces <NUM>, radius fillet <NUM> and bottom wall surface <NUM> in accordance with known methods. The base film remains at an adequate thickness to form a functional base pocket <NUM> defining a fill volume that is adequately sized, durable and does not leak from over-stretching of the film.

On filling, the formed base film pocket shape receives about <NUM>% of its capacity. As depicted in <FIG>, the consumable product material may reside only in the fill volume of the pocket defined by side wall surfaces <NUM>, transition wall surfaces <NUM>, the bottom wall surface <NUM> and radius fillet <NUM>, but not the plateau surfaces <NUM>, though this is not essential. That is, some amount of the product component <NUM> may initially be disposed on film <NUM> at plateau surfaces <NUM>. Importantly, the film in the relieved areas overlying plateau surfaces <NUM> is below the smooth film support surface <NUM> of the drum. On completion of a pouch, the base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> are not adhered together in the relieved areas.

When the pouch <NUM> is filled and sealed with an overlying lid film <NUM>, the pouch <NUM> will take on the shape dictated by the cavity perimeter edge <NUM> at the surface <NUM> of the mold configuration <NUM>. Pouch <NUM> will thus present sharp corner profiles defined by perimeter edge <NUM>. In this regard, the seal seam <NUM> sharp corner seal seam portions <NUM> form right angles (<NUM>°). Imaginary indicator lines designated I, are shown in <FIG> to indicate the demarcation of sharp corner seal seam portions <NUM>.

As previously explained with regard to the pouch <NUM> of <FIG>, on release from the mold configuration, the pouch conforms to the shape illustrated in <FIG> as a result of the well-known shrinkage of the base film and complementary stretch or expansion of the lid film. The films <NUM> and <NUM> used to produce pouches <NUM> may be similar in composition and thickness to those used to produce pouches <NUM>.

The result of the above- described modification to the mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG> as compared to the mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG>, is evidenced by comparison of the pouch <NUM> of <FIG> and the pouch <NUM> of <FIG>. Importantly, the perimeter seam seal <NUM> between the base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> defines sharp corner profiles. This shape derives from the spacing or separation between the films where they overlie the plateau surfaces <NUM> during the compression pressured sealing of the films. The films do not contact each other sufficiently to adhere at the portions of the pouch films overlying the plateau surfaces <NUM>. Consequently, the films form additional internal pouch volume, extending to the perimeter seal seam <NUM>.

The embodiment of <FIG> illustrates a mold configuration and pouch with four corners presenting sharp corner profiles. The embodiments of <FIG> and <FIG> are illustrative of mold configurations and pouches with numerous sharp corner profiles, each with sharp definition.

<FIG> illustrates a star shaped pouch <NUM> formed using conventional mold configuration principles, that is, without sharp corner profiles formed in the perimeter edge of the mold configuration. The pouch consequently has a perimeter seal seam <NUM> with rounded corners <NUM> that replicate the perimeter edge of the mold configuration used to produce the pouch.

<FIG> illustrates a mold configuration <NUM>, in accordance with the disclosure, for making a star-shaped pouch <NUM> having sharp corner profiles as seen in <FIG>. Pouch <NUM> has a base film formed by vacuum forming into a base pocket to which is sealed a lid film <NUM> to form flange <NUM> of adhered films. The pouch configuration is defined by perimeter seal seam <NUM> and contains a product component <NUM>. It includes multiple star point shaped facets <NUM> defined by sharp corner profiles.

Perimeter seal seam <NUM> includes corner seal seam portions 314A and 314B, respectively, defining acute and obtuse angles (as viewed from within pouch <NUM>) all presenting sharp corner profiles. Indicator lines perpendicular to seal seam <NUM> (designated I) are present in <FIG> to show the demarcation between these elements of the seal seam. Each associated pair of corner seal seam portions 314A meet at an intersection or vertex defining an acute angle. These corner seal seam portions form the points of the star shaped pouch <NUM>. Similarly, each associated pair of corner seal seam portions 314B meet at an intersection or vertex to form an obtuse angle at the base of each star point facet. The slightly convex seal seam portion 314A and slightly convex seal seam portion 314B tangentially merge into each other midway between the sharp corner profiles (at imaginary lines I) to define the complete perimeter seal seam <NUM>. These slightly curved lines, some convex (314A), some concave (314B) when viewed from inside pouch <NUM> are intended to improve the aesthetic qualities of pouch <NUM>.

The mold configuration illustrated in <FIG>, defines a mold cavity extending inward from a smooth film support surface <NUM> of a rotary drum or movable platen. It includes transition wall surfaces <NUM>, joined to a bottom surface <NUM> by a relatively generous radius fillet <NUM>, illustrated as about <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inch). These surfaces define a fill volume to receive the pouch product content. This structure of mold configuration <NUM> is consistent with conventional mold configuration practices to avoid undesirable stretching or thinning of the pouch film during forming.

Mold configuration <NUM> extends inwardly of smooth film support surface <NUM> from perimeter edge <NUM>, which includes a plurality of sharp corner profiles defined by corner edge portions 326A and 326B. The demarcation between edge portions 326A and 326B is identified in <FIG> by imaginary lines designated I.

Sharp corner edge portions 326A and 326B are defined by the intersection of inward edge surfaces <NUM> with smooth film support surface <NUM>. These edge portions extend inwardly perpendicular to smooth film support surface <NUM> to plateau surface <NUM>. They define sharp corner edge portions 326A, which meet at an intersection or vertex to form an acute angle. They also define sharp corner edge portions 326B, which meet at an intersection or vertex to form an obtuse angle. Both these angles are within the sharp corner profile definition previously set forth.

As illustrated in connection with the mold configuration illustrated in <FIG>, sharp corner edge portions 326A and 326B are formed by inward edge surfaces <NUM>. Inward edge portions <NUM> extend between perimeter edge <NUM> at smooth film support surface <NUM> and plateau surfaces <NUM>, which are disposed inward of film support surface <NUM> only an amount sufficient to avoid adherence of the lid film <NUM> and base film on closure of the pouch.

The mold configuration <NUM> includes relieved areas at plateau surfaces <NUM> associated with each sharp corner profile to reduce film stretching and stress on the film during forming. Notably, in this embodiment, the plateau surface <NUM> at each sharp corner profile merges with the plateau surface of adjacent sharp corner profiles thereby forming a continuous plateau surface <NUM> coextensive with the perimeter edge <NUM>.

The plateau surface <NUM> meets the smooth radius transition wall surfaces <NUM> of the mold configuration <NUM> at transition edge portions 326T (see <FIG>). Plateau surface <NUM> is only spaced from the smooth film support surface <NUM> an amount sufficient to permit deformation of the base film inward of the mold cavity within the accepted guidelines of film deformation. Such spacing may usually be from about <NUM> (<NUM>") to about <NUM> (<NUM>") depending on film thickness, pouch size and other factors.

Moreover, on application of the lid film, which for PVA films normally has been wetted or otherwise made "sticky," the resultant spacing between films avoids contact in the relieved areas associated with the plateau surfaces <NUM>. The perimeter edge <NUM> at the smooth film support surface <NUM> defines the perimeter seam of the two films creating a pouch with sharp corner profiles as illustrated in <FIG>. This sharp corner profile pouch represents a striking enhancement over a star shaped pouch as illustrated in <FIG>. There, because the rounded transition wall surfaces of the mold configuration extend to the perimeter edge, the star pouch perimeter seal seam <NUM> is also rounded.

It is also important to note that a mold configuration with sharp corner profiles but without plateau surfaces <NUM> disposed inward of the perimeter edges <NUM> to limit film stretch at those areas would result in excessive stretching or thinning of the base film in the sharp corners and lead to tears and/or leakage. This consequence is avoided by the principles of this disclosure.

It is contemplated that as disclosed herein, a wide variety of desired pouch shapes can be created employing relieved areas adjacent the perimeter edge of a mold configuration with sharp corner profiles. That is, the shape of the perimeter edge for a mold configuration may include sharp corner profiles, so long as there is also provided a plateau surface associated with the sharp corner profiles that; <NUM>) limits deformation or stretch of the base film on application of vacuum to draw it into the mold cavity and <NUM>) is sufficiently spaced from the smooth film support surface of the base forming drum to avoid adherence between the base film and lid film at these locations. Such relieved areas are accomplished by providing inward edge surfaces that extend to plateau surfaces within a cavity defined by a mold configuration, as described.

The plateau surfaces adjoin a central product fill volume or cavity defined by a bottom wall surface <NUM> with a radius fillet <NUM> to large radius transition wall surfaces <NUM>, within which the base film is formed to conventional stretch guidelines. The fill volume or cavity has sufficient capacity to receive the desired quantity of product component to be packaged. The relieved areas at the plateaus provide spacing between the base film and lid film to ensure minimal stretch during forming and insufficient contact in those areas to prevent adherence between the films on sealing of the pouches being formed.

A further example of the versatility of the principles disclosed herein is illustrated by the mold configuration and resultant pouch of <FIG>. In accordance with the disclosure, a multi-chamber pouch <NUM> having sharp corner profiles is shown in <FIG>. The mold configuration for creating pouch <NUM> is shown in <FIG>.

Pouch <NUM> has a base film <NUM> formed by vacuum forming into a base pocket <NUM> to which is sealed a lid film <NUM> to form flange <NUM>. It has multiple chambers, separated along a central web <NUM> best seen in <FIG>. Base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> are adhered together at central divider <NUM> as in flange <NUM>. The pouch shape is defined by perimeter seal seam <NUM> about each chamber defining sharp corner profiles and contains a product component <NUM> within the formed pouch chambers.

Perimeter seal seam <NUM> includes corner seal seam portions 414A and 414B, formed of slightly curved lines, respectively, defining acute and obtuse angles (as viewed from within pouch <NUM>) all presenting sharp corner profiles. Imaginary indicator lines (designated I) perpendicular to seal seam <NUM> are seen in <FIG>, that show the demarcation between these elements of the seal seam. Of course, corner seal seam portions 414A and 414B could be formed by straight lines.

Corner seal seam portions 414A and 414B merge together at imaginary indicator lines I. In this embodiment, each associated pair of corner seal seam portions 414A or 414B meet at an intersection or vertex to form an angle. The combined corner portions 414A and 414B of seal seam <NUM> present the multiple chamber pouch configuration with multiple sharp corner profiles.

Mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG> is illustrative of plateau surfaces, designated <NUM>, disposed inward of smooth film support surface <NUM>, defining relieved areas employed in a multi-chamber mold configuration. Mold configuration <NUM> defines separate voids or cavities 420A and 420B extending from a perimeter edge <NUM> at smooth outer film support surface <NUM> of a long bar <NUM>, as explained, a part of a base forming drum such as seen in <FIG>. In this instance, the mold configuration includes a central divider 422C defined by smooth film support surface <NUM> of base forming drum long bar <NUM>. This divider could be formed with straight line edges as has been the case in prior multi-chamber pouches, or it could be scalloped or some other desired shape.

Each separate chamber 420A and 420B of mold cavity of mold configuration <NUM> extends inward of smooth film support surface <NUM>. It includes side wall surfaces <NUM> joined by transition wall surfaces <NUM> that extend to a bottom wall surface <NUM> at a generous radius fillet <NUM>, about <NUM> (<NUM>/<NUM> inches). The bottom wall surface <NUM> includes a number of vacuum ports <NUM> in communication with conduits within the rotary drum to create a vacuum or negative pressure within the mold configuration <NUM>. In general, these features of the mold configuration parallel the mold configuration <NUM> of known design, seen in <FIG>.

As in the embodiment of the mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG>, and the mold configuration <NUM> of <FIG>, the perimeter edge <NUM> of mold configuration <NUM> defines the perimeter seal seam <NUM> joining the base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> to complete a multi-chamber pouch <NUM>. Here, the multiple compartments of a single pouch <NUM> are created by adherence of the lid and base films along central divider 422C.

Chambers 420A and 420B of mold configuration <NUM> extend inwardly of smooth film support surface <NUM> from perimeter edge <NUM>, which includes a plurality of sharp edge profiles defined by corner edge portions indicated generally as 426A and 426B in <FIG>. Sharp corner edge portions 426A and 426B are defined by the intersection of inward edge surfaces <NUM> with smooth film support surface <NUM>. These edge portions extend inwardly perpendicular to smooth film support surface <NUM> to plateau surface <NUM> and are slightly curved, though they could be straight.

Sharp corner edge portions 426A meet at an intersection or vertex defining an acute angle and sharp corner edge portions 426B meet at an intersection or vertex defining an obtuse angle, each within the sharp corner profile definition previously set forth. The sharp corner edge portions 426A and 426B merge to define continuous perimeter edge <NUM> around each separate cavity 420A and 420B.

Relieved areas within mold configuration <NUM> are defined by plateau surface <NUM> inward of the smooth film support surface <NUM>. In this embodiment, plateau surface <NUM> is continuous about the perimeter edge <NUM>. It is spaced inward of smooth film support surface <NUM> only a distance sufficient to permit minimal deformation or stretching of the base film <NUM> at these areas. It is also spaced inward sufficiently to avoid adherence of the base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> on pouch formation.

The remainder of the mold configuration cavity is defined by side wall surfaces <NUM> and transition wall surfaces <NUM> joined to a bottom wall surface <NUM> by a generous radius fillet <NUM>. These surfaces extend from transition edge portions 426T at the juncture with plateau surface <NUM>. They define the fill cavity inward from plateau surface <NUM>, though it is not essential that the fill volume be completely below the plateau surfaces.

Utilization of the plateau surface <NUM> adjacent, but spaced inwardly from smooth film support surface <NUM> at the perimeter edge <NUM> of the mold configuration <NUM> provides the capability to create complex perimeter seams and consequently complex pouch shapes without excessive stretch or thinning of the pouch forming base film overlying the plateau surface during forming. The plateau surface provides relieved areas with sufficient spacing between the facing surfaces of the base film <NUM> and lid film <NUM> to prevent adherence where the films overlie the relieved areas. Hence, the perimeter seal seam <NUM> follows the perimeter edge <NUM> of the mold configuration <NUM>, as has been explained.

Understandably, as illustrated by the embodiment of <FIG>, the principles disclosed herein apply to creation of pouches having more than one product compartment. The important feature is the interposition of plateau surfaces <NUM> within the mold cavity adjacent the perimeter edge <NUM> of the mold configuration <NUM> to provide relieved areas adjacent the sharp corner profiles. The remainder of the mold configuration portions define the fill chamber in accordance with conventional mold design principles to receive the product component to be packaged.

The inwardly spaced plateau surfaces <NUM> ensure minimal deformation of the film during base pocket formation and prevents undue stretching or weakening of the film. The plateau surface <NUM> is also significant in the pouch forming process in that they represent relieved areas where the base film and overlying lid film will not adhere together during pouch completion. The pouch internal volume is thus defined by the perimeter edge of the mold configuration <NUM> at the smooth outer film support surface <NUM>, with the separated films overlying the plateau surfaces adding or contributing to the overall internal pouch volume.

The foregoing embodiment is another example of the versatility of the mechanisms and methods disclosed herein. The principles disclosed provide for manufacture of new and aesthetically pleasing pouch shapes without sacrifice in pouch strength. Moreover, it is contemplated that this capability will lead to pouch shapes not previously possible.

It is contemplated that the principles disclosed here are not limited to forming pouches with sharp corner profiles. Relieved areas in the mold configuration adjacent the perimeter edge, defined by inwardly disposed plateau surfaces can be employed to form any shape pouch perimeter. The perimeter edge of the mold configuration defines the perimeter seam between joined films and consequently the pouch shape. Inwardly disposed plateau surfaces forming relieved areas adjacent these perimeter edges, surrounding, or partially surrounding, a central fill cavity of the mold configuration may be employed to minimize film deformation, stretch or weakening in any pouch configuration by limiting film stretch, while also permitting film spacing sufficient to avoid adherence between the films in these areas during closure or completion of the formed pouch.

Claim 1:
A mold configuration (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for forming a pocket in a film of a pressurized product containment pouch (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) having a base film (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a lid film (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) adhered about a perimeter seal seam, the mold configuration (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a film support surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
a perimeter edge (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) at said film support surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
wall surfaces inward of said perimeter edge (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) defining a mold cavity, said wall surfaces including a bottom wall surface (<NUM>), transition wall surfaces (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extending to said bottom wall surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>); and
a plateau surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) inward of said perimeter edge (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), the mold configuration (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) being characterized in that,
said plateau surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is spaced inward of said film support surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) a distance sufficient to prevent adherence of the lid film (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to the base film (<NUM>, <NUM>) overlying said plateau surfaces (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) while limiting deformation or stretch of the film into the mold configuration (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) from the film support surface (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).