US20090001150A1 - Reusable Envelope - Google Patents
Reusable Envelope Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090001150A1 US20090001150A1 US12/160,236 US16023607A US2009001150A1 US 20090001150 A1 US20090001150 A1 US 20090001150A1 US 16023607 A US16023607 A US 16023607A US 2009001150 A1 US2009001150 A1 US 2009001150A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- envelope
- closure member
- reusable
- apertures
- planar
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D27/00—Envelopes or like essentially-rectangular containers for postal or other purposes having no structural provision for thickness of contents
- B65D27/06—Envelopes or like essentially-rectangular containers for postal or other purposes having no structural provision for thickness of contents with provisions for repeated re-use
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D27/00—Envelopes or like essentially-rectangular containers for postal or other purposes having no structural provision for thickness of contents
- B65D27/12—Closures
- B65D27/28—Applications of separate closing elements
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
- Y02W30/00—Technologies for solid waste management
- Y02W30/50—Reuse, recycling or recovery technologies
- Y02W30/80—Packaging reuse or recycling, e.g. of multilayer packaging
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a reusable envelope and in particular, a reusable envelope in which tampering with the contents prior to delivery to the intended recipient is apparent.
- Multi-use envelopes exist, for example for use to carry internal post from one part of an office-based organisation to another.
- multi-use envelopes are generally not suitable for external use and the envelopes cannot be sealed to secure the contents therein. This carries the additional disadvantage that it is often impossible to tell if the contents of an envelope have been tampered with prior to delivery of the envelope to the intended recipient, as opening of the envelope to tamper with the contents and then re-closing of the envelope prior to delivery cannot be detected by the intended recipient on receipt.
- a first aspect of the present invention provides a reusable packaging system comprising an envelope having first and second substantially planar sides which are secured to one another so as to define a container having an open end, the first and second sides defining respective apertures there through in the vicinity of the open end of the envelope, the apertures being substantially aligned with one another and a closure member which is substantially planar, flexible and has opposing surfaces at least a portion of one of which carries an adhesive coating, the closure member being located adjacent the open end of the envelope such that the surface carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself through the apertures in the first and second sides of the envelope.
- envelope is intended to cover all container-types having at least two substantially planar sides and is to be understood to include pouches, parcels and packages of a substantially planar cross-section as well as a substantially square or rectangular cross-section.
- One or more aligned apertures may be provided in the planar sides and each aperture may be of any desired size or shape.
- the surface of the closure member carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself the closure member becomes irreversibly bonded to itself.
- at least a portion of both opposing surfaces of the closure member carries an adhesive coating. In either case, any attempt to remove the closure member to access the contents of the envelope will result in destruction of or damage to the closure member.
- any contact between the surface of the closure member carrying the adhesive coating and a surface of the envelope results in non-permanent adhesion between the two surfaces.
- the envelope can still be reusable if a slit is made in the closure member at the point where the two planar sides meet at what was the open end of the envelope prior to application of the closure member. In this way, the contents of the envelope may be accessed and the closure member simply remains attached to the surfaces of the planar sides of the envelope.
- the envelope can then be reused by placing a document or the like within the container of the envelope and the open end closed by applying a further closure member in the same manner as the first closure member was applied.
- the closure member contacts the outer surface of the underlying closure member. It will be appreciated that in such an arrangement, adhesive would need to be provided on at least a portion of each of the opposing surfaces of the closure member being applied over an existing closure member.
- the closure member may be dimensioned to receive information thereon relating, for example, to identification of the contents of the envelope or a reference relating to the contents of the envelope, or address or identification information relating to the intended destination or recipient of the envelope.
- advertising information or instructions may be provided on the closure member.
- an identification or authentication stamp or mark or seal of the sender may be provided on the closure member such that tampering of the envelope contents in transit can be detected by the recipient if the closure member is either damaged or has been remove and replaced with another closure member lacking the necessary identification or authentication information of the sender.
- the closure member may be dimensioned to receive time/date stamp information or to receive a franking stamp for postage purposes.
- the closure member may be provided with nicks or other cuts or tears along a portion of at least on of its edges such that the closure member could not be removed without causing tearing of the closure member at such a nick, cut or tear along an edge of the closure member.
- the reusable packaging system further comprises an insert located within the envelope and extending across at least a portion of the substantially aligned apertures such that the surface of the closure member contacts the insert and adheres reversibly thereto.
- the closure member cannot adhere to any documents contained within the envelope and which extend within the envelope across the apertures provided in the planar sides of the envelope.
- the envelope would need to be of dimensions which are significantly larger than the document being contained therein so that the document contained therein did not extend across the apertures in the planar sides.
- the closure member may be adhered to the surface of the documents. This will not result in damage to the documents provided the adhesive used does not bond irreversibly to the documents, as the closure member may be simply removed from the documents and envelope by the recipient, and the closure member discarded.
- the insert may be a separate insert or may be provided integrally with one or both of the planar sides of the envelope.
- the insert may be the full dimensions of the planar side or sides or may be of lesser diameter such that the insert extends across the apertures in the planar sides of the envelope, but does not extend the full length and/or width of the planar side, but is instead held in place by attachment to a respective planar member.
- the envelope is composed of a suitably durable material such that the envelope can withstand being used a plurality of times without becoming damage.
- All or part of the envelope may comprise a waterproof or water-resistant material such as a plastics or rubber material or any other suitable waterproof or water-resistant material known to the skilled person.
- all or part of the envelope may comprise a fire-resistant material to protect the contents of the envelope from extreme temperatures or fire damage during transit.
- the envelope may comprise any suitable material such as, but not limited to, any one or more of paper, card, laminated card, plastics material, rubber material, durable synthetic material. It will be appreciated that this list is not exhaustive and any other suitable material known to the skilled person may be used as an alternative to or in addition to any of the aforementioned materials.
- All or part of the envelope may be provided with a coating which resists permanent bonding to the adhesive used on the closure member.
- Any suitable release substance may be used, such as silicone or any suitable silicone based material or any other suitable release material known to the skilled person.
- All or part of the material from which the envelope is composed may be opaque and comprise and desired colour or pattern.
- all or part of the material form which the envelope is composed may be translucent or transparent.
- the whole of the envelope may be translucent or transparent, or alternatively, a translucent or transparent window may be provided in one or both planar sides to allow address or identification information provided on the contents of the envelope to be visible at the exterior of the envelope.
- the envelope further comprises a protective layer located between the two opposing planar sides of the envelope and adjacent at least one of the planar members.
- a protective layer may comprise a layer of padded material or a layer of strengthened material such as card or the like to provide an additional layer of protection for the contents of the envelope. This may be particularly useful if, for example, the envelope is used to carry fragile items such as compact discs or photographs or the like which may become damaged if transported in a non-protective envelope in the normal way.
- the protective layer may be provided as an integral part of the envelope or may be provided as an insert which is inserted into the envelope when required.
- the additional advantage provided by having the protective layer as a separate insert is that the envelope may be used with the protective layer either present or absent depending on the contents of the envelope being transported.
- the protective layer insert used may be selected from a range of inserts, each providing a different level of protection, the protective layer being selected in dependence upon the fragility of the contents of the envelope and therefore the protection level required to ensure that the contents reach their destination undamaged.
- the envelope may further comprise securing means to close the open end of the envelope.
- securing means to close the open end of the envelope.
- Such a closure means may be used where the closure member is not large enough to hold the open end of the envelope in a closed position to secure the contents of the envelope within.
- Such a securing means may include, but is not restricted to, a zip-lock type fastener or string pull.
- the securing means may comprise a non-permanent adhesive along at least a portion of at least one planar side in the region of the open end of the envelope on the surface of the at least one planar side opposing the other planar side.
- the securing means may comprise a flap extending from one of the planar sides of the envelope such that the flap can be folded over the open end of the envelope and make contact with the opposing planar side.
- a flap may be folded such that it overlaps with a portion of the exterior surface of the opposing planar member.
- the flap may be folded such that it is tucked inside the open end of the envelope and makes contact with the inner surface of the opposing planar member.
- the flap may align with the aligned apertures in the planar sides such that the closure member reversibly adheres to the flap in addition to, or as an alternative to, the closure member adhering to itself through the apertures in the planar sides.
- a flap may be particularly useful where the envelope has a square or rectangular cross-section as the flap will allow the planar sides of the envelope to meet and be secured together by means of the closure member.
- any other suitable securing means known to the skilled person may be used in addition to or as an alternative to any one or more of the aforementioned securing means.
- a further aspect of the present invention provides an envelope for use in a reusable packaging system according to a first aspect of the present invention, the envelope comprising first and second substantially planar sides which are secured to one another so as to define a container having an open end, the first and second sides defining respective apertures there through in the vicinity pf the open end of the envelope, the apertures being substantially aligned with one another.
- a further aspect of the present invention provides a closure member for use in a reusable packaging system according to a first aspect of the present invention, wherein the closure member is substantially planar, flexible and has opposing surface at least a portion of one of which carries and adhesive coating, the closure member being located adjacent the open end of the envelope such that the surface carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself through the apertures in the first and second sides of the envelope.
- a reusable packaging system and reusable envelopes minimises the waste materials associated with the mailing process.
- such reusable envelopes may be used repeatedly for greetings cards.
- the envelope and greetings card may be supplied separately such that when a greetings card is sent, the envelope is kept by the recipient rather than being discarded as is the case with conventional greetings card envelopes.
- a greetings card can be purchased (without the need to purchase a corresponding envelope) and the reusable envelope can be simply reused to send the new greetings card.
- the reusable envelopes are used for bank and postal account communications, the reusable envelopes can be simply re-circulated on an ongoing basis.
- FIG. 1 is a front view of a first embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a further front view of the reusable envelope of FIG. 1 (closure member shown);
- FIG. 3 is a plan cross sectional view of the reusable envelope of FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a further front view of the reusable envelope of FIG. 4 (closure member shown);
- FIG. 6 is a plan cross sectional view of the reusable envelope of FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 7 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a plan cross sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 8 ;
- FIG. 10 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 11 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope and closure member in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 12 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the reusable envelope of FIG. 12 , with the closure member shown;
- FIG. 14 is a front view of a further embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 15A is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 15B is a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 15A ;
- FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 15A with the closure member shown.
- Envelope 1 comprises two planar sides 10 connected along three sides 12 , 14 , 16 such that the fourth side 18 of each planar side define an open end of the envelope 1 there between.
- the two planar sides 10 define aligned apertures 20 therein, such that the aligned apertures 20 extend through both planar sides 10 of the envelope 1 .
- documents or the like are inserted into envelope 1 and a closure member 30 applied to the outer surface of planar sides 10 of envelope 1 as shown in FIG. 2 , such that the closure member 30 obscures the apertures 20 provided in planar sides 10 .
- Closure member 20 comprises a sticker or label which takes the form of a blank label with an adhesive back that sticks to any paper or card form, or in this case, envelope 1 .
- the adhesive will not stick to the envelope 1 , but will only stick to itself at the points at which the adhesively coated sides of the closure member make contact with one another through the aligned apertures 20 in planar sides 10 of envelope 1 .
- FIG. 3 shows the envelope 1 in cross-section with the closure member 30 in position over apertures 20 in planar sides 10 of envelope 1 .
- the position of the closure member 30 relative to the planar sides 10 in FIG. 3 shows that on one planar side 10 , a large expanse of surface area of closure member 30 is provided to receive any desired information, for example, relating to the sender identity and/or address, the recipient identity and/or address, the contents of the envelope, the date/time of sending of the envelope, franking information, instructions relating to the envelope or contents, or any combination of any of the aforementioned.
- FIGS. 4 to 6 show a further embodiment of an envelope 1 and closure member 30 in accordance with the present invention in which the apertures 20 are shown as having different dimensions and location to the apertures 20 of the envelope 1 of FIGS. 1 to 3 .
- the closure member 30 is arranged such that the opposing adhesive-coated surfaces of closure member 30 which contact one another through the apertures 20 become irreversibly bonded to one another and not to the surface of planar sides 20 of envelope 1 .
- any signs of the envelope 1 having been opened or tampered with will immediately be visible because the areas where a secure bonding has occurred between the closure member 30 adhesively coated surfaces will incur damage if forced apart. Access to the contents of the envelope 1 is only possible if the seal between the rear and the front of the closure member 30 is broken.
- the closure member 30 is simply peeled away from the surface of the envelope 1 thereby allowing the permanently bonded region of the closure member 30 (where it has adhered to itself through apertures 20 ) to tear away from the aperture 20 in the planar sides of envelope 1 .
- the remainder of the closure member 30 is simply peeled away and the contents of the envelope 1 accessed.
- the envelope 1 may be re-used simply by inserting the desired contents and applying a new closure member 30 across the apertures 20 in the planar sides 10 of the envelope 1 . This process may be repeated indefinitely.
- the postage stamp may be applied to the closure member 30 , and thus any time & date stamp or franking marks will be removed along with the said label or labels on removal of the closure member 30 on receipt of the envelope 1 by the intended recipient.
- FIG. 7 shows a further embodiment of an envelope in accordance with the present invention in which envelope 1 is provided with a flap 40 extending from one of the planar sides 20 .
- Flap 40 can be simply folded over to either contact the outer surface of the opposing planar member 10 , or folded over and inside the envelope so as to contact the inner surface of opposing planar member 10 , and is dimensioned so as not to obscure the apertures 20 in planar sides 10 of envelope 1 .
- Closure member 30 can then be simple placed over the planar sides 10 as previously described.
- FIGS. 8 and 9 show a further embodiment of an envelope in accordance with the present invention in which envelope 1 is provided with a flap 40 extending from one of the planar sides 20 , flap 40 being provided with a flap aperture 45 there through.
- Flap 40 can be simply folded over to either contact the outer surface of the opposing planar member 10 , or folded over and inside the envelope so as to contact the inner surface of opposing planar member 10 , and is dimensioned such that the aperture 45 in flap 40 aligns with the apertures 20 in planar sides 20 .
- Closure member 30 can then be simple placed over the planar sides 10 as previously described, and as shown in FIG. 9 .
- FIG. 10 shows the envelope 1 and flap 40 in its open form ready for a letter or document to be inserted.
- Envelope 1 is provided with a plurality of small apertures 20 and a slot 50 dimensioned to receive a portion of flap 40 there through.
- flap 40 can be simply folded over to either contact the outer surface of the opposing planar member 10 , or alternatively, flap 40 may be folded over the outer surface of envelope 1 and through slot 50 .
- a cut-out portion 45 is provided in flap 40 such that flap 40 does not obscure apertures 20 in planar sides 10 of envelope 1 .
- the aperture or apertures 45 in flap 40 do not have to be the same shape or dimension as apertures 20 in planar sides 30 of envelope 1 . This is also true for the apertures 20 in each of the planar sides 30 —the dimension and shape of the apertures does not have to be identical, only that the apertures may be aligned so that the aperture or apertures extends through both planar sides 20 so that closure member 30 can make contact with itself through the aligned aperture or apertures 20 .
- FIG. 11 shows the envelope 1 with the flap 40 tucked into envelope 1 through slot 50 (not shown).
- a document 60 is enclosed within envelope 1 and is located between flap 50 and aperture 20 in planar member 30 of envelope 1 .
- the closure member 30 is then positioned over apertures 20 in planar side 10 of envelope 1 in the direction shown by arrow A in FIG. 11 and is pressed into place, thereby causing closure member 30 to reversibly bond onto the surface of document 60 through the apertures 30 in planar side 10 and through aperture 45 in flap 40 .
- FIGS. 12 and 13 show the envelope 1 of FIG. 10 further provided with a slot 50 located in one surface of the envelope 1 and dimensioned to receive at least a portion of flap 40 there through.
- a document or insert would be inserted into envelope 1 , and flap 40 folded over and inserted through slot 50 , such that the aperture 45 in flap 40 and the apertures 20 in planar side 10 of envelope 1 overlap.
- Closure member 30 is then positioned over apertures 20 in planar side 10 of envelope 1 and pressed into place, thereby causing closure member 30 to reversibly bond onto the surface of the document or insert.
- FIGS. 11 to 13 although the document e.g. letter may be bonded directly to the closure member, to avoid tearing of the document on removal of the closure member, an insert or blank page may be included at the front of the document to which the closure member is bonded in use, thereby providing the same tamper indication advantages, but avoiding damage to the document.
- FIG. 14 shows a further embodiment of an envelope 1 which is similar to that of FIG. 10 , rather than being provided with the multiple apertures 20 in planar side 10 , planar side 10 is provided with a cut-out portion 20 ′.
- This has the advantage of providing additional security as a larger continuous area is provided through which permanent bonding of the closure member to either itself or an inserted document may occur.
- apertures/cut-outs may be used in either or both of the planar side 10 and flap 40 of envelope 1 , provided that at least a portion of the apertures/cut-outs provided overlap, as discussed with respect to the embodiments of the invention previously described.
- FIGS. 15A to C show a further embodiment of an envelope with planar sides 10 , 10 ′ provided with respective aligned apertures 20 , 20 ′.
- Planar side 10 ′ defining aperture 20 ′ is provided with a flap 70 which folds about fold-line 75 .
- flap 70 is folded about fold-line 75 through apertures 20 ′ and 20 and folded downwards adjacent planar side 10 .
- Label 30 is then applied to envelope 1 as previously described such that the label 30 adheres to itself through aligned apertures 20 , 20 ′.
- flap 70 prevents any contents of the envelope being able to slip upwards towards the location of adhesive label 30 and becoming adhered to label 30 during application of label 30 and/or during transit of envelope 1 .
- closure member(s) will hold the flap in a closed position.
- the flap may only be lifted when the permanent bond(s) between the closure member(s) though the aperture(s) in the planar sides of the envelope are broken.
- the aperture(s) in the planar sides of the envelope is/are arranged in such a way that a stamp or the like applied to a closure member will be damaged when the closure member is removed from the envelope, therefore rendering the said stamp and/or the like void for multiple use.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Credit Cards Or The Like (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention provides a reusable packaging system comprising an envelope having first and second substantially planar sides which are secured to one another so as to define a container having an open end, the first and second sides defining respective apertures there through in the vicinity of the open end of the envelope, the apertures being substantially aligned with one another and a closure member which is substantially planar, flexible and has opposing surfaces at least a portion of one of which carries an adhesive coating, the closure member being located adjacent the open end of the envelope such that the surface carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself through the apertures in the first end and second sides of the envelope. Also provided is a reusable envelope and a closure member for use in such a reusable packaging system.
Description
- The present invention relates to a reusable envelope and in particular, a reusable envelope in which tampering with the contents prior to delivery to the intended recipient is apparent.
- Currently, there exists a mailing system that makes use of placing written or printed information or letters into a paper envelope, sealing the envelope, then placing a stamp onto the envelope and posting to its destination. Once received, the envelope is opened, the contents removed and the envelope is discarded as rubbish or sometimes returned for recycling. However, both outcomes incur waste either in energy or in resources.
- Multi-use envelopes exist, for example for use to carry internal post from one part of an office-based organisation to another. However, such multi-use envelopes are generally not suitable for external use and the envelopes cannot be sealed to secure the contents therein. This carries the additional disadvantage that it is often impossible to tell if the contents of an envelope have been tampered with prior to delivery of the envelope to the intended recipient, as opening of the envelope to tamper with the contents and then re-closing of the envelope prior to delivery cannot be detected by the intended recipient on receipt.
- There is therefore a need in the art for an envelope which avoids becoming waste after a single use. Further, there is a need for an envelope which allows easy indication of whether the contents of the envelope have been accessed prior to delivery of the envelope to the intended recipient.
- The present invention seeks to address the problems of the prior art. Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention provides a reusable packaging system comprising an envelope having first and second substantially planar sides which are secured to one another so as to define a container having an open end, the first and second sides defining respective apertures there through in the vicinity of the open end of the envelope, the apertures being substantially aligned with one another and a closure member which is substantially planar, flexible and has opposing surfaces at least a portion of one of which carries an adhesive coating, the closure member being located adjacent the open end of the envelope such that the surface carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself through the apertures in the first and second sides of the envelope.
- The term ‘envelope’ is intended to cover all container-types having at least two substantially planar sides and is to be understood to include pouches, parcels and packages of a substantially planar cross-section as well as a substantially square or rectangular cross-section.
- One or more aligned apertures may be provided in the planar sides and each aperture may be of any desired size or shape.
- In one embodiment, the surface of the closure member carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself the closure member becomes irreversibly bonded to itself. Alternatively, at least a portion of both opposing surfaces of the closure member carries an adhesive coating. In either case, any attempt to remove the closure member to access the contents of the envelope will result in destruction of or damage to the closure member.
- In a further embodiment, any contact between the surface of the closure member carrying the adhesive coating and a surface of the envelope results in non-permanent adhesion between the two surfaces. Alternatively, there may be no adhesion between the adhesive coating on the closure member and the surface of the planar sides of the envelope.
- This allows the closure member to be removed completely from the envelope without damage to the envelope itself and so the envelope can be simply re-used by applying a new closure member to the envelope after placing further documents for transit within the envelope, such that the closure member contacts itself through the apertures in the first and second sides of the envelope.
- However, it will be appreciated that even if the closure member bonds irreversibly to the surface of the planar side of the envelope, the envelope can still be reusable if a slit is made in the closure member at the point where the two planar sides meet at what was the open end of the envelope prior to application of the closure member. In this way, the contents of the envelope may be accessed and the closure member simply remains attached to the surfaces of the planar sides of the envelope. The envelope can then be reused by placing a document or the like within the container of the envelope and the open end closed by applying a further closure member in the same manner as the first closure member was applied. However, rather than the closure member contacting itself through the aperture provided in the planar sides of the envelope, the closure member contacts the outer surface of the underlying closure member. It will be appreciated that in such an arrangement, adhesive would need to be provided on at least a portion of each of the opposing surfaces of the closure member being applied over an existing closure member.
- The closure member may be dimensioned to receive information thereon relating, for example, to identification of the contents of the envelope or a reference relating to the contents of the envelope, or address or identification information relating to the intended destination or recipient of the envelope. Alternatively, or in addition, advertising information or instructions may be provided on the closure member. Alternatively, or in addition, an identification or authentication stamp or mark or seal of the sender may be provided on the closure member such that tampering of the envelope contents in transit can be detected by the recipient if the closure member is either damaged or has been remove and replaced with another closure member lacking the necessary identification or authentication information of the sender. Alternatively, or in addition, the closure member may be dimensioned to receive time/date stamp information or to receive a franking stamp for postage purposes.
- The closure member may be provided with nicks or other cuts or tears along a portion of at least on of its edges such that the closure member could not be removed without causing tearing of the closure member at such a nick, cut or tear along an edge of the closure member. Thus, it would be readily apparent if tampering had been attempted, even if tampering had not successfully resulted in removal of the closure member from the envelope in order to gain access to the contents of the envelope.
- In one embodiment, the reusable packaging system further comprises an insert located within the envelope and extending across at least a portion of the substantially aligned apertures such that the surface of the closure member contacts the insert and adheres reversibly thereto. In this way, the closure member cannot adhere to any documents contained within the envelope and which extend within the envelope across the apertures provided in the planar sides of the envelope. This allows the envelope used to be just marginally bigger in dimensions than the dimensions of the document contained within. In the absence of such an insert, the envelope would need to be of dimensions which are significantly larger than the document being contained therein so that the document contained therein did not extend across the apertures in the planar sides.
- Alternatively, if the document contained within the envelope extends across the apertures in the planar sides, the closure member may be adhered to the surface of the documents. This will not result in damage to the documents provided the adhesive used does not bond irreversibly to the documents, as the closure member may be simply removed from the documents and envelope by the recipient, and the closure member discarded.
- The insert may be a separate insert or may be provided integrally with one or both of the planar sides of the envelope. The insert may be the full dimensions of the planar side or sides or may be of lesser diameter such that the insert extends across the apertures in the planar sides of the envelope, but does not extend the full length and/or width of the planar side, but is instead held in place by attachment to a respective planar member.
- Preferably, the envelope is composed of a suitably durable material such that the envelope can withstand being used a plurality of times without becoming damage.
- All or part of the envelope may comprise a waterproof or water-resistant material such as a plastics or rubber material or any other suitable waterproof or water-resistant material known to the skilled person. Alternatively, or in addition, all or part of the envelope may comprise a fire-resistant material to protect the contents of the envelope from extreme temperatures or fire damage during transit.
- The envelope may comprise any suitable material such as, but not limited to, any one or more of paper, card, laminated card, plastics material, rubber material, durable synthetic material. It will be appreciated that this list is not exhaustive and any other suitable material known to the skilled person may be used as an alternative to or in addition to any of the aforementioned materials.
- All or part of the envelope may be provided with a coating which resists permanent bonding to the adhesive used on the closure member. Any suitable release substance may be used, such as silicone or any suitable silicone based material or any other suitable release material known to the skilled person.
- All or part of the material from which the envelope is composed may be opaque and comprise and desired colour or pattern. Alternatively, all or part of the material form which the envelope is composed may be translucent or transparent. For example, the whole of the envelope may be translucent or transparent, or alternatively, a translucent or transparent window may be provided in one or both planar sides to allow address or identification information provided on the contents of the envelope to be visible at the exterior of the envelope.
- In one embodiment, the envelope further comprises a protective layer located between the two opposing planar sides of the envelope and adjacent at least one of the planar members. Such a protective layer may comprise a layer of padded material or a layer of strengthened material such as card or the like to provide an additional layer of protection for the contents of the envelope. This may be particularly useful if, for example, the envelope is used to carry fragile items such as compact discs or photographs or the like which may become damaged if transported in a non-protective envelope in the normal way.
- The protective layer may be provided as an integral part of the envelope or may be provided as an insert which is inserted into the envelope when required. The additional advantage provided by having the protective layer as a separate insert is that the envelope may be used with the protective layer either present or absent depending on the contents of the envelope being transported. In addition, the protective layer insert used may be selected from a range of inserts, each providing a different level of protection, the protective layer being selected in dependence upon the fragility of the contents of the envelope and therefore the protection level required to ensure that the contents reach their destination undamaged.
- The envelope may further comprise securing means to close the open end of the envelope. Such a closure means may be used where the closure member is not large enough to hold the open end of the envelope in a closed position to secure the contents of the envelope within.
- Such a securing means may include, but is not restricted to, a zip-lock type fastener or string pull.
- Alternatively, the securing means may comprise a non-permanent adhesive along at least a portion of at least one planar side in the region of the open end of the envelope on the surface of the at least one planar side opposing the other planar side.
- Alternatively, the securing means may comprise a flap extending from one of the planar sides of the envelope such that the flap can be folded over the open end of the envelope and make contact with the opposing planar side. Such a flap may be folded such that it overlaps with a portion of the exterior surface of the opposing planar member. Alternatively, the flap may be folded such that it is tucked inside the open end of the envelope and makes contact with the inner surface of the opposing planar member. In either case, the flap may align with the aligned apertures in the planar sides such that the closure member reversibly adheres to the flap in addition to, or as an alternative to, the closure member adhering to itself through the apertures in the planar sides.
- A flap may be particularly useful where the envelope has a square or rectangular cross-section as the flap will allow the planar sides of the envelope to meet and be secured together by means of the closure member.
- Alternatively, any other suitable securing means known to the skilled person may be used in addition to or as an alternative to any one or more of the aforementioned securing means.
- A further aspect of the present invention provides an envelope for use in a reusable packaging system according to a first aspect of the present invention, the envelope comprising first and second substantially planar sides which are secured to one another so as to define a container having an open end, the first and second sides defining respective apertures there through in the vicinity pf the open end of the envelope, the apertures being substantially aligned with one another.
- A further aspect of the present invention provides a closure member for use in a reusable packaging system according to a first aspect of the present invention, wherein the closure member is substantially planar, flexible and has opposing surface at least a portion of one of which carries and adhesive coating, the closure member being located adjacent the open end of the envelope such that the surface carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself through the apertures in the first and second sides of the envelope.
- A reusable packaging system and reusable envelopes according to the present invention minimises the waste materials associated with the mailing process. For example, such reusable envelopes may be used repeatedly for greetings cards. The envelope and greetings card may be supplied separately such that when a greetings card is sent, the envelope is kept by the recipient rather than being discarded as is the case with conventional greetings card envelopes. The next time that individual wishes to send a greetings card to another, a greetings card can be purchased (without the need to purchase a corresponding envelope) and the reusable envelope can be simply reused to send the new greetings card. Further, if the reusable envelopes are used for bank and postal account communications, the reusable envelopes can be simply re-circulated on an ongoing basis.
- An embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a front view of a first embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a further front view of the reusable envelope ofFIG. 1 (closure member shown); -
FIG. 3 is a plan cross sectional view of the reusable envelope ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a further front view of the reusable envelope ofFIG. 4 (closure member shown); -
FIG. 6 is a plan cross sectional view of the reusable envelope ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 9 is a plan cross sectional view of the embodiment ofFIG. 8 ; -
FIG. 10 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 11 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope and closure member in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 12 is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the reusable envelope ofFIG. 12 , with the closure member shown; -
FIG. 14 is a front view of a further embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 15A is a front view of a further embodiment of a reusable envelope (closure member not shown) in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 15B is a rear view of the embodiment ofFIG. 15A ; and -
FIG. 15C is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment ofFIG. 15A with the closure member shown. - A first embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to
FIGS. 1 to 3 in which show anenvelope 1.Envelope 1 comprises twoplanar sides 10 connected along threesides fourth side 18 of each planar side define an open end of theenvelope 1 there between. The twoplanar sides 10 define alignedapertures 20 therein, such that the alignedapertures 20 extend through bothplanar sides 10 of theenvelope 1. - In use, documents or the like are inserted into
envelope 1 and aclosure member 30 applied to the outer surface ofplanar sides 10 ofenvelope 1 as shown inFIG. 2 , such that theclosure member 30 obscures theapertures 20 provided inplanar sides 10. -
Closure member 20 comprises a sticker or label which takes the form of a blank label with an adhesive back that sticks to any paper or card form, or in this case,envelope 1. The adhesive will not stick to theenvelope 1, but will only stick to itself at the points at which the adhesively coated sides of the closure member make contact with one another through the alignedapertures 20 inplanar sides 10 ofenvelope 1. -
FIG. 3 shows theenvelope 1 in cross-section with theclosure member 30 in position overapertures 20 inplanar sides 10 ofenvelope 1. The position of theclosure member 30 relative to theplanar sides 10 inFIG. 3 shows that on oneplanar side 10, a large expanse of surface area ofclosure member 30 is provided to receive any desired information, for example, relating to the sender identity and/or address, the recipient identity and/or address, the contents of the envelope, the date/time of sending of the envelope, franking information, instructions relating to the envelope or contents, or any combination of any of the aforementioned. -
FIGS. 4 to 6 show a further embodiment of anenvelope 1 andclosure member 30 in accordance with the present invention in which theapertures 20 are shown as having different dimensions and location to theapertures 20 of theenvelope 1 ofFIGS. 1 to 3 . However, as inFIGS. 1 to 3 , theclosure member 30 is arranged such that the opposing adhesive-coated surfaces ofclosure member 30 which contact one another through theapertures 20 become irreversibly bonded to one another and not to the surface ofplanar sides 20 ofenvelope 1. - When the recipient receives the
envelope 1 any signs of theenvelope 1 having been opened or tampered with will immediately be visible because the areas where a secure bonding has occurred between theclosure member 30 adhesively coated surfaces will incur damage if forced apart. Access to the contents of theenvelope 1 is only possible if the seal between the rear and the front of theclosure member 30 is broken. When the intended recipient wishes to open theenvelope 1 theclosure member 30 is simply peeled away from the surface of theenvelope 1 thereby allowing the permanently bonded region of the closure member 30 (where it has adhered to itself through apertures 20) to tear away from theaperture 20 in the planar sides ofenvelope 1. The remainder of theclosure member 30 is simply peeled away and the contents of theenvelope 1 accessed. After the contents of theenvelope 1 have been removed, theenvelope 1 may be re-used simply by inserting the desired contents and applying anew closure member 30 across theapertures 20 in theplanar sides 10 of theenvelope 1. This process may be repeated indefinitely. - If at any stage the
envelope 1 is to be posted, the postage stamp may be applied to theclosure member 30, and thus any time & date stamp or franking marks will be removed along with the said label or labels on removal of theclosure member 30 on receipt of theenvelope 1 by the intended recipient. -
FIG. 7 shows a further embodiment of an envelope in accordance with the present invention in whichenvelope 1 is provided with aflap 40 extending from one of the planar sides 20.Flap 40 can be simply folded over to either contact the outer surface of the opposingplanar member 10, or folded over and inside the envelope so as to contact the inner surface of opposingplanar member 10, and is dimensioned so as not to obscure theapertures 20 inplanar sides 10 ofenvelope 1.Closure member 30 can then be simple placed over theplanar sides 10 as previously described. -
FIGS. 8 and 9 show a further embodiment of an envelope in accordance with the present invention in whichenvelope 1 is provided with aflap 40 extending from one of theplanar sides 20,flap 40 being provided with aflap aperture 45 there through.Flap 40 can be simply folded over to either contact the outer surface of the opposingplanar member 10, or folded over and inside the envelope so as to contact the inner surface of opposingplanar member 10, and is dimensioned such that theaperture 45 inflap 40 aligns with theapertures 20 inplanar sides 20.Closure member 30 can then be simple placed over theplanar sides 10 as previously described, and as shown inFIG. 9 . -
FIG. 10 shows theenvelope 1 andflap 40 in its open form ready for a letter or document to be inserted.Envelope 1 is provided with a plurality ofsmall apertures 20 and aslot 50 dimensioned to receive a portion offlap 40 there through. Thus, after insertion of a document intoenvelope 1,flap 40 can be simply folded over to either contact the outer surface of the opposingplanar member 10, or alternatively,flap 40 may be folded over the outer surface ofenvelope 1 and throughslot 50. As shown inFIG. 10 , a cut-outportion 45 is provided inflap 40 such thatflap 40 does not obscureapertures 20 inplanar sides 10 ofenvelope 1. As demonstrated inFIG. 10 , the aperture orapertures 45 inflap 40 do not have to be the same shape or dimension asapertures 20 inplanar sides 30 ofenvelope 1. This is also true for theapertures 20 in each of theplanar sides 30—the dimension and shape of the apertures does not have to be identical, only that the apertures may be aligned so that the aperture or apertures extends through bothplanar sides 20 so thatclosure member 30 can make contact with itself through the aligned aperture orapertures 20. -
FIG. 11 shows theenvelope 1 with theflap 40 tucked intoenvelope 1 through slot 50 (not shown). Adocument 60 is enclosed withinenvelope 1 and is located betweenflap 50 andaperture 20 inplanar member 30 ofenvelope 1. Theclosure member 30 is then positioned overapertures 20 inplanar side 10 ofenvelope 1 in the direction shown by arrow A inFIG. 11 and is pressed into place, thereby causingclosure member 30 to reversibly bond onto the surface ofdocument 60 through theapertures 30 inplanar side 10 and throughaperture 45 inflap 40. -
FIGS. 12 and 13 show theenvelope 1 ofFIG. 10 further provided with aslot 50 located in one surface of theenvelope 1 and dimensioned to receive at least a portion offlap 40 there through. In use, a document or insert would be inserted intoenvelope 1, andflap 40 folded over and inserted throughslot 50, such that theaperture 45 inflap 40 and theapertures 20 inplanar side 10 ofenvelope 1 overlap.Closure member 30 is then positioned overapertures 20 inplanar side 10 ofenvelope 1 and pressed into place, thereby causingclosure member 30 to reversibly bond onto the surface of the document or insert. - In the embodiments of
FIGS. 11 to 13 , if the bond between the closure member and the document or insert is broken and/or there are tear marks on the document or insert, this will be evidence that theenvelope 1 and its contents may have been tampered with during transit. It may also be apparent that tampering has taken place if the flap has been removed and/or there may be free movement of the document/insert enclosed withinenvelope 1. - In
FIGS. 11 to 13 , although the document e.g. letter may be bonded directly to the closure member, to avoid tearing of the document on removal of the closure member, an insert or blank page may be included at the front of the document to which the closure member is bonded in use, thereby providing the same tamper indication advantages, but avoiding damage to the document. -
FIG. 14 shows a further embodiment of anenvelope 1 which is similar to that ofFIG. 10 , rather than being provided with themultiple apertures 20 inplanar side 10,planar side 10 is provided with a cut-outportion 20′. This has the advantage of providing additional security as a larger continuous area is provided through which permanent bonding of the closure member to either itself or an inserted document may occur. - Thus, it will be appreciated that various arrangements of apertures/cut-outs may be used in either or both of the
planar side 10 andflap 40 ofenvelope 1, provided that at least a portion of the apertures/cut-outs provided overlap, as discussed with respect to the embodiments of the invention previously described. -
FIGS. 15A to C show a further embodiment of an envelope withplanar sides apertures Planar side 10′ definingaperture 20′ is provided with aflap 70 which folds about fold-line 75. In use, once contents have been inserted intoenvelope 1,flap 70 is folded about fold-line 75 throughapertures 20′ and 20 and folded downwards adjacentplanar side 10. -
Label 30 is then applied toenvelope 1 as previously described such that thelabel 30 adheres to itself through alignedapertures - The presence of
flap 70 prevents any contents of the envelope being able to slip upwards towards the location ofadhesive label 30 and becoming adhered to label 30 during application oflabel 30 and/or during transit ofenvelope 1. - Although aspects of the invention have been described with reference to the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiment shown and that various changes and modifications may be effected without further inventive skill and effort. For example, the present invention has been described in relation to envelopes, but the invention also extends to parcels and packages which can also use a reusable container with aligned apertures and a closure member as described above, such that the on receipt the closure member may be removed and the container reused.
- Further, more than one closure member may be used. For example, where an envelope having a flap is used, the closure member(s) will hold the flap in a closed position. The flap may only be lifted when the permanent bond(s) between the closure member(s) though the aperture(s) in the planar sides of the envelope are broken.
- Optionally, the aperture(s) in the planar sides of the envelope is/are arranged in such a way that a stamp or the like applied to a closure member will be damaged when the closure member is removed from the envelope, therefore rendering the said stamp and/or the like void for multiple use.
Claims (13)
1. A reusable packaging system comprising:
a. an envelope having first and second substantially planar sides which are secured to one another so as to define a container having an open end, the first and second sides defining respective apertures there through in the vicinity of the open end of the envelope, the apertures being substantially aligned with one another; and
b. a closure member which is substantially planar, flexible and has opposing surfaces at least a portion of one of which carries an adhesive coating, the closure member being located adjacent the open end of the envelope such that the surface carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself through the apertures in the first and second sides of the envelope.
2. A reusable packaging system according to claim 1 , wherein the surface of the closure member carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself and the closure member is thereby irreversibly bonded to itself.
3. A reusable packaging system according to claim 1 , further comprising the surface of the closure member carrying the adhesive coating contacting a surface of a side of the envelope, whereby the two surfaces are non-permanently adhered to each other.
4. A reusable packaging system according to claim 3 , wherein the closure member comprises a tamper indicator whereby after adhesion between the two surfaces, removal of the closure member from the envelope will result in damage to the closure member.
5. A reusable packaging system according to claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of both opposing surfaces of the closure member carries an adhesive coating.
6. A reusable packaging system according to claim 1 , further comprising an insert located within the envelope and extending across at least a portion of the substantially aligned apertures such that the surface of the closure member contacts the insert and adheres reversibly thereto.
7. A reusable envelope according to claim 1 , wherein the envelope comprises a waterproof material.
8. A reusable envelope according to claim 1 , wherein the envelope comprises a translucent material.
9. A reusable envelope according to claim 1 , wherein the envelope further comprises a protective layer located between the two opposing planar sides of the envelope.
10. A reusable envelope according to claim 1 , wherein the envelope further comprises a securing apparatus to close the open end of the envelope.
11. A reusable envelope according to claim 10 , wherein the securing apparatus comprises a flap extending from one of the planar sides of the envelope such that the flap can be folded over the open end of the envelope and make contact with the opposing planar side.
12. A reusable envelope according to claim 10 , wherein the securing apparatus comprises a non-permanent adhesive along at least a portion of at least one planar side in the region of the open end of the envelope on the surface of the at least one planar side opposing the other planar side.
13-17. (canceled)
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB0600459A GB0600459D0 (en) | 2006-01-11 | 2006-01-11 | Re-Usable Envelope |
GB0600459.2 | 2006-01-11 | ||
GB0611842A GB0611842D0 (en) | 2006-06-14 | 2006-06-14 | Re-usable envelope |
GB0611842.6 | 2006-06-14 | ||
PCT/GB2007/000052 WO2007080395A1 (en) | 2006-01-11 | 2007-01-10 | Reusable envelope |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090001150A1 true US20090001150A1 (en) | 2009-01-01 |
Family
ID=35997816
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/160,236 Abandoned US20090001150A1 (en) | 2006-01-11 | 2007-01-10 | Reusable Envelope |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20090001150A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1984269A1 (en) |
GB (2) | GB0600459D0 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007080395A1 (en) |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100102966A1 (en) * | 2008-10-27 | 2010-04-29 | First Data Corporation | Devices and Methods for Protecting a Packaged Radio Frequency Identification Device from Electronic Reading |
USD668716S1 (en) | 2010-10-01 | 2012-10-09 | Cenveo Corporation | Clear clasp reusable envelope |
US20130126598A1 (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2013-05-23 | Nicole Beadles | Reusable greeting card and envelope |
US8544719B2 (en) | 2010-10-01 | 2013-10-01 | Cenveo Corporation | Clear clasp reusable envelope |
US20140284389A1 (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2014-09-25 | Robert Beadles | Reusable envelope |
US9158770B1 (en) | 2012-10-09 | 2015-10-13 | Robert Beadles | Memorytag hybrid multidimensional bar text code |
US9286295B2 (en) | 2012-10-09 | 2016-03-15 | Robert Beadles | Apparatus and method for cloud based storage using a multi-layer scannable tag |
USD766363S1 (en) | 2013-09-18 | 2016-09-13 | Robert Beadles | Reusable envelope |
US9760575B2 (en) | 2012-10-09 | 2017-09-12 | Robert Dale Beadles | Scannable code tags for use in social networking and group invitation |
Families Citing this family (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7726548B2 (en) | 2004-02-25 | 2010-06-01 | Ecoenvelopes, Llc | Reusable envelope structures and methods |
US8763891B1 (en) | 2004-02-25 | 2014-07-01 | Carol A. DeLaVergne | Reusable envelope structures and methods |
US7815099B2 (en) | 2005-04-05 | 2010-10-19 | Ecoenvelopes, Llc | Reusable envelope structures and methods |
WO2008024250A2 (en) | 2006-08-18 | 2008-02-28 | Ecoenvelopes, Llc | Reusable envelopes |
US8875985B1 (en) | 2009-02-19 | 2014-11-04 | eco Envelopes, LLC. | Conversion envelopes |
US9878825B1 (en) | 2015-06-02 | 2018-01-30 | Ecoenvelopes, Llc | Reusable top flap envelope with dual opposing seal flaps |
Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2503592A (en) * | 1945-11-16 | 1950-04-11 | Charles A Pate | Envelope for filing purposes and the like |
US3256941A (en) * | 1964-09-23 | 1966-06-21 | Gulf Oil Corp | Bag closure |
US3963174A (en) * | 1973-05-05 | 1976-06-15 | Lyra Rose T De | Permanent envelope |
US5400954A (en) * | 1993-03-18 | 1995-03-28 | Pci Paper Conversions, Inc. | Reversible-returnable envelope blank |
US5492271A (en) * | 1993-09-16 | 1996-02-20 | Chereton; Richard | Reversible envelope |
US5620256A (en) * | 1995-08-22 | 1997-04-15 | Makrauer; George A. | Tamper evident security bag |
US5639523A (en) * | 1995-01-20 | 1997-06-17 | Ellis; Dana R. | Decorative sheet material |
US6722784B2 (en) * | 2002-01-22 | 2004-04-20 | Gary L. Breil, Jr. | Snap on envelope |
US6821018B1 (en) * | 1999-05-20 | 2004-11-23 | Jacques Denko | Flexible container with a sealable closure |
US6893387B1 (en) * | 2003-04-16 | 2005-05-17 | Sleepeck Printing Company | Mailing envelope assembly |
US20060202008A1 (en) * | 2005-03-11 | 2006-09-14 | Purcell Douglas K | Insert and envelope assembly |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2899347A (en) * | 1959-08-11 | Method of making bag closure | ||
GB855449A (en) * | 1957-10-18 | 1960-11-30 | Robinson E S & A Ltd | Improvements in containers made of paper, film or like material |
BE593839A (en) * | 1959-08-10 | 1960-12-01 | Hendrik Jan Bok | Flat bag with adhesive closure. |
US3163352A (en) * | 1962-05-07 | 1964-12-29 | Studley Paper Company Inc | Paper bags |
JPH0794258B2 (en) * | 1990-03-05 | 1995-10-11 | 株式会社生産日本社 | Bag body with a double-sealing function |
GB9202508D0 (en) * | 1992-02-06 | 1992-03-25 | Spillard Jack C | Packaging |
-
2006
- 2006-01-11 GB GB0600459A patent/GB0600459D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2007
- 2007-01-10 GB GB0700458A patent/GB2434142B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2007-01-10 US US12/160,236 patent/US20090001150A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-01-10 EP EP20070704887 patent/EP1984269A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2007-01-10 WO PCT/GB2007/000052 patent/WO2007080395A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2503592A (en) * | 1945-11-16 | 1950-04-11 | Charles A Pate | Envelope for filing purposes and the like |
US3256941A (en) * | 1964-09-23 | 1966-06-21 | Gulf Oil Corp | Bag closure |
US3963174A (en) * | 1973-05-05 | 1976-06-15 | Lyra Rose T De | Permanent envelope |
US5400954A (en) * | 1993-03-18 | 1995-03-28 | Pci Paper Conversions, Inc. | Reversible-returnable envelope blank |
US5492271A (en) * | 1993-09-16 | 1996-02-20 | Chereton; Richard | Reversible envelope |
US5639523A (en) * | 1995-01-20 | 1997-06-17 | Ellis; Dana R. | Decorative sheet material |
US5620256A (en) * | 1995-08-22 | 1997-04-15 | Makrauer; George A. | Tamper evident security bag |
US6821018B1 (en) * | 1999-05-20 | 2004-11-23 | Jacques Denko | Flexible container with a sealable closure |
US6722784B2 (en) * | 2002-01-22 | 2004-04-20 | Gary L. Breil, Jr. | Snap on envelope |
US6893387B1 (en) * | 2003-04-16 | 2005-05-17 | Sleepeck Printing Company | Mailing envelope assembly |
US20060202008A1 (en) * | 2005-03-11 | 2006-09-14 | Purcell Douglas K | Insert and envelope assembly |
Cited By (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100102966A1 (en) * | 2008-10-27 | 2010-04-29 | First Data Corporation | Devices and Methods for Protecting a Packaged Radio Frequency Identification Device from Electronic Reading |
US8537016B2 (en) * | 2008-10-27 | 2013-09-17 | First Data Corporation | Devices and methods for protecting a packaged radio frequency identification device from electronic reading |
US8544719B2 (en) | 2010-10-01 | 2013-10-01 | Cenveo Corporation | Clear clasp reusable envelope |
USD668716S1 (en) | 2010-10-01 | 2012-10-09 | Cenveo Corporation | Clear clasp reusable envelope |
US20150076233A1 (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2015-03-19 | Robert Dale Beadles | Reusable envelope |
US20140284389A1 (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2014-09-25 | Robert Beadles | Reusable envelope |
US8870061B2 (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2014-10-28 | Robert Beadles | Reusable envelope |
CN104334361A (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2015-02-04 | N·G·比德尔 | Reusable greeting card and envelope |
US20130126598A1 (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2013-05-23 | Nicole Beadles | Reusable greeting card and envelope |
US9302818B2 (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2016-04-05 | Robert Beadles | Reusable envelope |
US9359111B2 (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2016-06-07 | Robert Dale Beadles | Reusable envelope |
US9840352B2 (en) * | 2011-11-22 | 2017-12-12 | Robert Dale Beadles | Reusable envelope |
US9158770B1 (en) | 2012-10-09 | 2015-10-13 | Robert Beadles | Memorytag hybrid multidimensional bar text code |
US9286295B2 (en) | 2012-10-09 | 2016-03-15 | Robert Beadles | Apparatus and method for cloud based storage using a multi-layer scannable tag |
US9760575B2 (en) | 2012-10-09 | 2017-09-12 | Robert Dale Beadles | Scannable code tags for use in social networking and group invitation |
USD766363S1 (en) | 2013-09-18 | 2016-09-13 | Robert Beadles | Reusable envelope |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP1984269A1 (en) | 2008-10-29 |
WO2007080395A1 (en) | 2007-07-19 |
GB2434142A (en) | 2007-07-18 |
GB0700458D0 (en) | 2007-02-21 |
GB0600459D0 (en) | 2006-02-22 |
GB2434142B (en) | 2010-04-21 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20090001150A1 (en) | Reusable Envelope | |
US7726548B2 (en) | Reusable envelope structures and methods | |
CA2181392C (en) | A combined form and label construction | |
US4733817A (en) | Envelope system with multiple pockets | |
US20090302099A1 (en) | Environmentally friendly reusable envelope structures | |
US5044669A (en) | Stampable addressable self adhesive label | |
CA1063981A (en) | Envelope and form assembly | |
US9302817B2 (en) | Self-mailer and/or method for mailing correspondence and/or articles via a special service | |
EP1033316A2 (en) | Returnable mailer | |
US6435404B1 (en) | Return mailer | |
US20110204132A1 (en) | Tamper-Evident Reusable Mailing Envelope | |
US7350689B1 (en) | Reusable tamper evident envelope | |
EP0534893B1 (en) | An envelope | |
US8763891B1 (en) | Reusable envelope structures and methods | |
US4762271A (en) | Compartmented and separable mailing envelope | |
US20110153527A1 (en) | Reusable envelope with a pair of adhesive strips | |
US6481754B2 (en) | Machine sealable mailing form for non-impact printing | |
US5478010A (en) | Mailing envelope | |
US7213844B2 (en) | Envelope with integrated tracking labels | |
US7726550B2 (en) | Insert with a return mailer | |
JP4950173B2 (en) | Packaging method and packaging material | |
CA2470331C (en) | Envelope with integrated tracking labels | |
JP2006312473A (en) | Valuables envelope | |
US20020020735A1 (en) | Device for displaying and/or transporting an item | |
US20040118905A1 (en) | Apparatus and method for discretely and securely sending and receiving messages on post cards |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |