WO2019060630A1

WO2019060630A1 - Multipack packaging assemblies

Info

Publication number: WO2019060630A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/052075
Authority: WO
Inventors: Thomas R. Lee; Scott Douglas Howells; Jeffrey Graves
Original assignee: Coveris Holding Corp.
Priority date: 2017-09-22
Filing date: 2018-09-20
Publication date: 2019-03-28

Abstract

A packaging assembly can include a plurality of containers and a film. The packaging assembly can further include one or more tear lines disposed between adjacent containers, or between adjacent rows of containers. The tear lines can include scored tear lines or perforated tear lines. The scores or perforations can be formed by a laser, blade, or other implement. One or more containers can be removed from the packaging assembly by tearing the film along the tear line.

Description

MULTIPACK PACKAGING ASSEMBLIES

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to multipack packaging assemblies, and more particularly to packaging assemblies that include a plurality of containers retained by a film.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] The written disclosure herein describes illustrative embodiments that are non-limiting and non-exhaustive. Reference is made to certain of such illustrative embodiments that are depicted in the figures, in which:

[0003] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a packaging assembly;

[0004] FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the packaging assembly of FIG. 1 , depicting a plurality of containers in phantom;

[0005] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of the packaging assembly of FIG. 1 , depicting the packaging assembly after the removal of a plurality of containers and a segment or portion of the assembly;

[0006] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the packaging assembly of FIGS. 1 and 2;

[0007] FIG. 5 is cross-sectional view of the packaging assembly of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 5-5 in FIG. 4;

[0008] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the packaging assembly of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 6A-6A in FIG. 4;

[0009] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the packaging assembly of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 6A-6A in FIG. 4;

[0010] FIG. 7 is a plan view of another embodiment of a packaging assembly;

[0011] FIG. 8 is a plan view of another embodiment of a packaging assembly;

[0012] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a packaging assembly; and

[0013] FIG. 10 is a plan view of another embodiment of a packaging assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Embodiments may be best understood by reference to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated by like numerals throughout. It will be readily understood that the components of the present disclosure, as generally described and illustrated in the drawings herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of the embodiments of the apparatus is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, but is merely representative of possible embodiments of the disclosure. In some cases, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail. While the various aspects of the embodiments are presented in drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated.

[0015] FIGS. 1 -2 depict an embodiment of a packaging assembly 100, according to the present disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the packaging assembly 100; and FIG. 2 is another perspective view of the packaging assembly 100, depicting a plurality of containers 1 10 in phantom. As shown in FIGS. 1 -2, the packaging assembly 100 comprises a plurality of containers 1 10 and a film 120. The packaging assembly 100 further comprises one or more tear lines 130. In some embodiments, the packaging assembly 100 further comprises a handle 140. In other embodiments, no handle 140 is used.

[0016] As shown in FIGS. 1 -2, the film 120 is configured to retain the plurality of containers 1 10 within the packaging assembly 100. In some embodiments, the film 120 retains the plurality of containers 1 10 in a substantially fixed position within the packaging assembly 100. In other words, the plurality of containers 1 10 can be retained by the film 120 such that they are not free to move about or exit the interior region 122 of the packaging assembly 100. In some embodiments, the packaging assembly 100 can be referred to as a multipack packaging assembly 100.

[0017] The film 120 can retain the plurality of containers 1 10 in various ways. For example, in some embodiments, the film 120 is wrapped or otherwise disposed around the plurality of containers 1 10. In other embodiments, the film 120 is wrapped or otherwise disposed around at least a portion of the plurality of containers 1 10. Further, in some embodiments, the film 120 is shrink wrapped around the plurality of containers 1 10. For example, the film 120 can be wrapped or otherwise disposed around the plurality of containers 1 10, and then, using any suitable shrink wrap process and equipment, the film 120 can be made to shrink around the plurality of containers 1 10. In some embodiments, shrinking the film 120 around the plurality of containers 1 10 can cause the film 120 to substantially conform to the shape of the plurality of containers 1 10, minimizing the amount of excess space within the packaging assembly 100. [0018] Various types of films 120 can be used. For example, in some embodiments, the film 120 comprises plastic and/or other polymeric materials. Exemplary plastic and/or polymeric materials that can be used include, but are not limited to, polyolefin polymers and copolymers, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) polymers and copolymers, polyethylene polymers and copolymers, polypropylene polymers and copolymers, and mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, the film 120 comprises one or more thermoplastic materials or resins. In some embodiments, the film 120 comprises a shrinkable film.

[0019] Various thicknesses of films 120 can also be used. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness of the film 120 is between about 1 .5 mil and about 5 mil. In other embodiments, the thickness of the film is between about 2.0 mil and about 3.0 mil. Other thicknesses can also be used depending on the type of container 1 10 to be retained in the packaging assembly 100.

[0020] As can be appreciated, the use of a film 120 packaging material is advantageous in many ways. For example, film 120 packaging materials offer significant cost savings as compared to traditional paperboard packaging materials. In some instances, the cost of film 120 packaging materials can be up to 75% less than the cost of paperboard packaging materials.

[0021] Film 120 packaging materials are also advantageous when placing the packaging assembly 100 in a cooler or other environment with ice and/or water. For example, in contrast to traditional paperboard packaging materials, the film 120 disclosed herein is not substantially affected by ice or the water derived therefrom. Other advantages of using film 120 packaging materials are also contemplated.

[0022] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 -2, the packaging assembly 100 further comprises one or more tear lines 130. In some embodiments, the tear lines 130 are disposed in the machine direction of the film 120. Various types of tear lines 130 can be used, including, but not limited to, scored tear lines and perforated tear lines. For example, in some embodiments, the tear lines 130 can be laser scored or laser perforated tear lines. Other mechanical means can also be used to create the scored or perforated tear lines, including blades or other implements. Scored tear lines, including laser scored tear lines, can extend partially through the film 120. For example, a laser, blade, or other implement, can be used to create a taper, or channel, along a surface of the film 120. Perforated tear lines can extend completely through the film 120. For example, a laser, blade, or other implement can be used to create a series of perforations that extend completely through the film 120. Perforations can also be referred to as holes or apertures.

[0023] The tear lines 130 can be disposed on the film 120 in one or more locations. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, for example, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed between adjacent containers 1 10 (e.g., between a first container and a second container). In further embodiments, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed between adjacent rows of containers 1 10 (e.g., between a first row of containers and a second row of containers). In yet other embodiments, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed in-line with or otherwise planar with one or more containers (e.g., in-line with or planar with the center region of one or more containers), as shown in FIG. 10.

[0024] In some embodiments, the tear lines 130 are disposed around a perimeter of the film 120. For example, the tear lines 130 can substantially extend around a perimeter of the film 120 (i.e., about 360° around the perimeter). In other embodiments, the tear lines 130 can extend around a portion of the perimeter of the film 120. For example, the tear lines 130 can extend for about 120°, about 180°, about 240° (or more or less as desired) around a perimeter of the film 120. The tear lines 130 can also extend continuously or discontinuously. For example, discontinuous tear lines 130 can include one or more tear lines 130 that are spaced apart from each other along the perimeter of the film 120.

[0025] The tear lines 130 can facilitate removal of one or more containers 1 10 from the packaging assembly 100. For example, a user can puncture the film 120 (e.g., via insertion of one or more fingers) at a tear line 130. The user can then grasp the one or more containers 1 10 to be removed (including the portion of the film 120 disposed around them), and pull them away from the remainder of the packaging assembly 100. As the one or more containers 1 10 (including the portion of the film 120 disposed around them) are pulled away from the remainder of the packaging assembly 100, the film 120 is torn along the tear line 130 until the one or more containers 1 10 to be removed (including the portion of the film 120 disposed around them) are separated from the remainder of the packaging assembly 100. An illustrative packaging assembly 100 depicted after the removal of one or more containers (including the portion of the film 120 disposed around them) is depicted in FIG. 3 and further discussed below. [0026] FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view of a portion of the packaging assembly 100 of FIG. 1 , depicting the packaging assembly 100 after the removal of one or more of containers 1 10 therefrom. As shown in FIG. 3, the film 120 has been torn along a first tear line 130a and one or more containers 1 10 (including the portion of the film 120 disposed around them) have been removed from the packaging assembly 100. Further, the film 120 has been torn along a substantially controlled path located at the tear line 130a. The remainder of the film 120 and packaging assembly 100 is left substantially unaffected. Further, the remainder of the containers 100 is retained in the interior region 122 of the packaging assembly 100. At a later time (e.g., at the user's discretion), one or more additional containers 1 10 can be removed from the packaging assembly 100 by tearing the film 120 along another tear line 130, such as tear line 130b or 130c. For example, two containers 1 10 can be removed by grasping and tearing the film 120 at tear line 130b, while four containers 1 10 can be removed by grasping and tearing the film 120 at tear line 130c. The user can thus remove any number of containers 1 10 at their discretion by grasping and tearing the film 120 at a desired location. Further, in some embodiments, the film 120 can comprise printed indicia to indicate the location of the tear lines 130 if desired. It will also be appreciated that the removed containers 1 10 can also remain retained within the portion of the removed film 120. In such instances, the controlled tear along the tear line 130 does not substantially affect the removed film 120 or its ability to retain one or more containers 1 10.

[0027] As can be appreciated, the size or footprint of the packaging assembly 100 can be decreased by selectively removing the containers 1 10 from the packaging assembly 100 via tearing the film 120 along the tear lines 130. This is advantageous in many ways. For example, traditional paperboard packaging remains the same size regardless of how many containers have been removed from the packaging. This can be inconvenient when there are only a few containers remaining within the packaging. In contrast, the packaging assemblies 100 disclosed herein become smaller as the containers 1 10 are removed. For example, a portion of the film 120 of the packaging assembly 100 can be torn and removed from the packaging assembly 100 along with the containers 1 10. The size of the remaining portion of the packaging assembly 100 can thus correspond to the number of containers 1 10 being retained therein. [0028] Additionally, in some embodiments, the packaging assembly 100 can be divided along the tear lines 130 depending on the amount of containers 1 10 that are desired. For example, a packaging assembly 100 comprising six rows of containers 1 10 can be divided into halves or thirds, etc., as desired. For instance, three rows of containers 1 10 can be separated from a six row packaging assembly 100 at the user's discretion. In such instances, the three rows that have been removed and the three rows that remain each comprise containers 1 10 being retained within a portion of the film 120.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a plan view of the packaging assembly 100 of FIGS. 1 -2. As shown in FIG. 4, the packaging assembly 100 comprises a plurality of containers 1 10 and a film 120. The packaging assembly 100 further comprises one or more tear lines 130. The packaging assembly 100 further comprises a handle 140.

[0030] As shown in FIG. 4, the tear lines 130 are disposed between several of the containers 1 10. For example, a tear line 130d is disposed between a first container 1 10a and a second container 1 10b. As previously discussed, the first container 1 10a can be removed from the packaging assembly 100 by tearing the film 120 along the tear line 130d.

[0031] Any number of containers 1 10 can be retained within the packaging assembly 1 10. Further, in some embodiments, the containers 1 10 can be arranged within the packaging assembly 100 in a predetermined format. For example, the containers 1 10 can be arranged in row and column format. In some embodiments, the containers 1 10 within the packaging assembly 100 can be arranged to form two or more rows 1 14 and one or more columns 1 12a, 1 12b. As shown in FIG. 4, for example, the containers 1 10 are arranged to form six rows 1 14 and two columns 1 12a, 1 12b. Arrangements of more or less rows 1 14 and/or more or less columns 1 12a, 1 12b are also contemplated.

[0032] As further shown in FIG. 4, the tear lines 130 can be disposed between rows 1 14 of containers 1 10. For example, a tear line 130d is disposed between a first row 1 14a of containers 1 10 and a second row 1 14b of containers 1 10. The first row 1 14a of containers 1 10 can be removed from the packaging assembly 1 10 by tearing the film 120 along the tear line 130d. If desired, a plurality of rows 1 14 can be removed simultaneously from the packaging assembly 100 by tearing the film 120 along any desired tear line 130. For example, three rows 1 14 of containers 1 10 (six containers 1 10) can be removed simultaneously by tearing the film 120 along the tear line 130e. In further embodiments, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed between one or more columns of containers 1 10, such as columns 1 12a, 1 12b. In yet further embodiments, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed between one or more rows 1 14 of containers 1 10, and one or more columns of containers 1 10. In other embodiments, one or more tear lines 130 can be disposed in-line with or planar with one or more containers 1 10 (as shown in FIG. 10 below).

[0033] The containers 1 10 can also be arranged within the packaging assembly 100 such that they stand upright. As can be appreciated, arranging the containers 1 10 in an upright configuration can provide increased stability to the packaging assembly 100, for example, when it is placed on a shelf. In other embodiments, the containers 1 10 can be arranged within the packaging assembly 100 such that they are disposed on their sides, if desired.

[0034] As can be appreciated, various types of containers 1 10 can be packaged in the packaging assemblies 100 disclosed herein, including, but not limited to, beverage containers, food containers, and non-food containers. The containers 1 10 can also be made of various materials, including metals and/or non-metals. For example, in some embodiments, the containers 1 10 comprise one or more metals, including, but not limited to, steel, aluminum, tin, and combinations thereof. Non- metal materials can also be used. For example, in some embodiments, the containers 1 10 comprise one or more plastic and/or other polymeric materials. Further, in some embodiments, the containers 1 10 comprise glass materials. In certain embodiments, the containers 1 10 comprise one or more rigid materials.

[0035] The containers 1 10 can also be various shapes and/or sizes. For example, in some embodiments, the containers 1 10 are substantially cylindrical in shape. In some embodiments, the containers 1 10 are shaped like traditional cans (e.g., beverage cans such as 12 oz. beverage cans, canned food, etc.). In other embodiments, the containers 1 10 are shaped like traditional bottles (water bottles, beverage bottles, etc.). For example, the containers 1 10 can be 2-liter bottles, 1 .5 liter bottles, or 20 oz. bottles, which can be commonly employed as beverage containers. Other sizes of bottles can also be used and packaged with the films 120 disclosed herein. Other shaped containers 1 10, including both traditionally used shapes and non-traditionally used shapes, are also contemplated. It will thus be appreciated that various types of containers and/or bottles can be packaged with the films 120 disclosed herein. [0036] In some embodiments, the tear lines 130 comprise laser scored tear lines, as illustrated in FIG. 5. Specifically, FIG. 5 is cross-sectional view of the packaging assembly 100 of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 5-5 in FIG. 4. FIG. 5 depicts a portion of a tear line 130 disposed on the film 120. As shown in FIG. 5, the tear line 130 can comprise a laser scored tear line that extends through a first surface 124 (e.g., an exterior surface) of the film 120. In some embodiments, the tear line 130 can be described as a taper or a channel. Further, the tear line 130 extends only through a portion of the film 120 such that a second surface 126 (e.g., the interior surface) remains substantially unaffected. In other embodiments, the tear line 130 can extend all the way through the film 120. For example, as previously discussed, the tear line 130 can comprise a series of perforations that can extend through the film 120.

[0037] With reference to FIGS. 1 -2 and 4, the packaging assembly 100 can further comprise a handle 140. The handle 140 can facilitate carrying the packaging assembly 100. Further, in some embodiments, one or more additional handles (e.g., a second handle, etc.) can be used if desired. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the handle 140 can further include printed indicia 141 and can be used for labeling purposes.

[0038] The handle 140 can be coupled to the film 120. For example, a first portion 142 of the handle 140 is coupled to a surface of the film 120 at a first location, and a second portion 144 of the handle 140 is coupled to a surface of the film 120 at a second location. A third portion 146 of the handle 140 extends outwardly from the packaging assembly 100 to facilitate grasping and carrying the packaging assembly 100. The handle 140 can securely retain the packaging assembly 100 as it is being carried by the user.

[0039] The handle 140 can be coupled to the packaging assembly 100 at various locations. For example, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the handle 140 is coupled to a longitudinal end 101 of the packaging assembly 100. The handle 140 also extends from a side of the packaging assembly 100. The printed indicia 141 can thus be clearly viewed when the packaging assembly 100 is placed on a shelf. This can be advantageous when the packaging assembly 100 comprises a bulls-eye region (i.e., a region devoid of film 120) that may be formed during a shrink wrap process. For example, the absence of film 120 at the bulls-eye region can make it difficult to label the packaging assembly 100. However, these difficulties can be overcome by placing a handle 140 comprising printed indicia 141 over the bulls-eye region, as shown in the illustrated embodiment.

[0040] As discussed above, in some embodiments a second handle can also be used. For example, a second handle can be coupled to the longitudinal end of the packaging assembly 100 that is opposite the longitudinal end 101 wherein the first handle 140 is coupled. Coupling handles 140 to each longitudinal end of the packaging assembly 100 can be advantageous in many ways, including handling, packaging, or otherwise moving the packaging assembly 100. In yet further embodiments, a handle may optionally extend upward from the packaging assembly 100, for example, from a central region of the packaging assembly 100, if desired. Such a handle could be present alone or in combination with one or more handles placed at longitudinal ends of the packaging assembly 100.

[0041] FIGS. 6A and 6B depict cross-sectional views of various embodiments of the packaging assembly 100 of FIG. 4, taken along the view line 6A-6A in FIG. 4. As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the handle 140, 240 can be coupled to the packaging assembly in various ways. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment of FIG. 6A, the handle 140 is directly adhered to the film 120. For example, the handle 140 can be heat sealed, or melted to the film 120. In other embodiments, such as the embodiment of FIG. 6B, the handle 240 is coupled to the film 220 via an adhesive 241 . Any suitable adhesive can be used.

[0042] FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment of a packaging assembly 300 that can resemble the packaging assembly 100 described above in certain respects. Accordingly, like features are designated with like reference numerals, with the leading digits incremented to "3." Relevant disclosure set forth above regarding similarly identified features thus may not be repeated hereafter. Moreover, specific features of the packaging assembly 300 may not be shown or identified by a reference numeral in the drawings or specifically discussed in the written description that follows. However, such features may clearly be the same, or substantially the same, as features depicted in other embodiments and/or described with respect to such embodiments. Accordingly, the relevant descriptions of such features apply equally to the features of the packaging assembly 300. Any suitable combination of the features and variations of the same described with respect to the packaging assembly 100 can be employed with the packaging assembly 300, and vice versa. This pattern of disclosure applies equally to further embodiments depicted in subsequent figures and described hereafter, wherein the leading digits may be further incremented.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 7, the packaging assembly 300 comprises a plurality of containers 310 and a film 320. The packaging assembly 300 further comprises one or more tear lines 330. In the illustrated embodiment, the tear lines 330 are a series of discontinuous tear lines 330. The tear lines 330 can be scored tear lines, or perforated tear lines. The scores or perforations can be formed via a laser, or can be cut with a blade or other implement. Other suitable methods of forming scores or perforations can also be employed.

[0044] In certain embodiments, the packaging assembly 300 comprises tear lines 330 that exhibit a particular tensile strength. For example, the packaging assembly 300 can comprise tear lines 330 that exhibit a tensile strength of between about 2.5 lbs/in² and about 5.5 lbs/in², between about 3.0 lbs/in² and about 5.0 lbs/in², or between about 3.5 lbs/in² and about 4.5 lbs/in², as measured by ASTM D 882 when formed into 1 inch strips and pulled at 2 inches/minute. The tensile strengths disclosed herein are also measured and used to describe films 320 that have not yet been shrunk or otherwise subjected to a shrink wrap process.

[0045] In some of such embodiments, the tear lines 330 are configured such that they will not tear until a threshold force is applied. Configuring the packaging assembly 300 in this way is advantageous in many ways. For example, such a packaging assembly 300 can retain the containers 310 during movement, transport, or manipulation of the packaging assembly 300. Then, at the user's discretion, the film 320 can be easily torn at the tear lines 330 by the application of a force to open the packaging assembly 300 or otherwise remove one or more containers 310 therefrom.

[0046] Achieving a desired tensile strength can be accomplished in various ways. For example, in some embodiments, the perforation pattern and/or the perforation ratio can be varied to modify the tensile strength. For instance, the ratio between perforated and unperforated regions along the tear line 330 can be changed to modify the tensile strength. A higher ratio of perforated to unperforated regions can impart a lower tensile strength, and a lower ratio of perforated to unperforated regions can impart a higher tensile strength. Extending the length of the perforated regions can also impart a lower tensile strength as compared to shortening the length of perforated regions. With regards to scored tear lines, the depth of the score, width of the score, and/or length of the score can be varied to modify the tensile strength as desired.

[0047] In some embodiments, the tensile strength or force required to open the packaging assembly 300 at the tear lines 330 can also vary among the different tear lines 330. For example, the packaging assembly 300 can be configured such that the tensile strength of a first or outer tear line 330 is greater than the tensile strength of a second or inner tear line 330. In other embodiments, the packaging assembly 300 can be configured such that the tensile strength of the second or inner tear line 330 is greater than the tensile strength of the first or outer tear line 330. In yet other embodiments, the tensile strength of two or more tear lines 330 can vary independently of their location on the packaging assembly 300. Variation among the different tear lines 330 can impart different strength and structural integrity to the packaging assembly 300. For example, having a greater tensile strength among the inner tear lines 330 can impart a greater structural integrity to the inner region of the packaging assembly 300. And having a greater tensile strength among the outer tear lines 330 can impart a greater strength to the outer regions (or longitudinal ends) of the packaging assembly 300, which can be advantageous if the packaging assembly 300 is lifted from one or more longitudinal ends.

[0048] In yet further embodiments, the tensile strength or force required to open the packaging assembly 300 at the tear lines 330 can vary within one or more of the tear lines 330. For example, a tear line 330 can be configured such that the tensile strength of a first portion is greater than the tensile strength of a second portion of the tear line 330. For instance, the tensile strength of a side portion of a tear line 330 (or a portion that extends along a longitudinal side of a container) can be greater than the tensile strength of an upper portion of the tear line 330 (or a portion that extends laterally across the top of the container). Varying the tensile strength along the tear line 330 in such a way can impart greater strength to the packaging assembly 300 (e.g., along the sides) while also providing areas for easy opening (e.g., along the top).

[0049] FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of a packaging assembly 400 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 8, the packaging assembly 400 comprises a plurality of containers 410 and a film 420. The packaging assembly 400 further comprises one or more tear lines 430. As previously discussed, in certain embodiments, the tensile strength can vary among the different tear lines 430. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the tensile strength of the first and fifth tear lines 430a, 430e (the outer tear lines) is configured to be different than the tensile strength of the second, third and fourth tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d (the inner tear lines). As previously discussed, variation among the different tear lines 430 can impart different strength and structural integrity to the packaging assembly 400. For example, having a greater tensile strength among the inner tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d can impart a greater structural integrity to the inner region of the packaging assembly 400. And having a greater tensile strength among the outer tear lines 430a, 430e can impart a greater strength to the outer regions (or longitudinal ends) of the packaging assembly 400, which can be advantageous if the packaging assembly 400 is lifted from one or more longitudinal ends. As further discussed above, variation among the tear lines 430 can be done in many ways, including, but not limited to, variation of the perforation or score pattern.

[0050] In some embodiments, the outer tear lines 430a, 430e (e.g., the first and fifth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment) are configured such that their tensile strength is between about 1 % and about 30% less, between about 5% and about 25% less, or between about 10% and about 20% less than the tensile strength of the inner tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d (e.g., the second, third, and fourth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment). In other embodiments, the outer tear lines 430a, 430e (e.g., the first and fifth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment) are configured such that their tensile strength is at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% less than the tensile strength of the inner tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d (e.g., the second, third, and fourth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment).

[0051] In further embodiments, the outer tear lines 430a, 430e (e.g., the first and fifth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment) are configured such that their tensile strength is between about 1 % and about 30% greater, between about 5% and about 25% greater, or between about 10% and about 20% greater than the tensile strength of the inner tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d (e.g., the second, third, and fourth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment). In other embodiments, the outer tear lines 430a, 430e (e.g., the first and fifth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment) are configured such that their tensile strength is at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, or 30% greater than the tensile strength of the inner tear lines 430b, 430c, 430d (e.g., the second, third, and fourth tear lines of the illustrated embodiment). [0052] FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of a packaging assembly 500 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 9, the packaging assembly 500 comprises a plurality of containers 510 and a film 520. The packaging assembly 500 further comprises one or more tear lines 530. As previously discussed, in certain embodiments, the tensile strength can vary within one or more tear lines 530. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the tear lines 530 are configured such that the tensile strength of a first portion 532 is different than the tensile strength of a second portion 534. In certain embodiments, the first portion 532 (or upper portion extending laterally across the top of the containers 510 (and/or lower portion extending laterally across the bottom of the containers 510)) can be configured such that the tensile strength is less than the tensile strength of the second portion 534 (or the side portion(s) extending along a longitudinal side(s) of the containers 510). Configuring the tensile strength to be lower in the first portion 532 can increase the ease by which the packaging assembly 500 is opened by a user, while a higher tensile strength in the second portion 534 (or second portions 534) can provide increased strength and structural integrity to the packaging assembly 500. In other embodiments, the first portion 532 (or upper portion extending laterally across the top of the containers 510 (and/or lower portion extending laterally across the bottom of the containers 510)) can be configured such that the tensile strength is greater than the tensile strength of the second portion 534 (or the side portion(s) extending along a longitudinal side(s) of the containers 510) As further shown in FIG. 9, the packaging assembly 500 need not include a handle, as handles can be an optional feature of the design.

[0053] In some embodiments, one or more tear lines 530 are configured such that the tensile strength of the first portion 532 (e.g., an upper portion) is between about 5% to about 50%, between about 10% to about 45%, between about 10% to about 40%, between about 15% to about 35%, between about 15% to about 30%, between about 20% to about 30%, or between about 20% to about 25% less than the tensile strength of the second portion 534 (e.g., a side portion or side portions).

[0054] FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment of a packaging assembly 600 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 10, the packaging assembly 600 comprises a plurality of containers 610 and a film 620. The packaging assembly 600 further comprises one or more tear lines 630. As further shown in FIG. 10, in some embodiments, the tear lines 630 are disposed in-line with or along the same plane as the one or more containers 610 rather than between rows of containers 610. It will thus be appreciated that the tear lines 630 can be disposed at various locations along the length of the packaging assembly 600 as desired.

[0055] Methods of packaging a plurality of containers are also disclosed herein. For example, in one embodiment, the method comprises a step of applying tear lines to a film. Scored tear lines, or perforated tear lines can be used. The method can further comprise a step of disposing a film around a plurality of containers. The plurality of containers can be arranged in any desired format, including row and column formats. In some embodiments, the film is disposed around the plurality of containers such that the tear lines are disposed around a perimeter of the film. The method can further comprise a step of shrinking the film around the containers. Exemplary shrink film processes can include applying heat to the film which can cause the film to shrink around the containers.

[0056] The tear lines can be applied before or after disposing the film around the plurality of containers, and before or after the film has been shrunk. The method can further comprise a step of coupling a handle to the packaging assembly. For example, the handle can be coupled to a surface of the film. Additional method steps can be derived from the disclosure herein.

[0057] Examples:

[0058] Example 1 : A packaging film (a multi-layer polyolefin packaging film having a thickness of from about 2.25 mil to about 2.75 mil) was perforated using a laser to form a series of five tear lines. In forming the perforated tear lines, lasers were cycled between ON and OFF positions as the film was passed through the perforation system. Perforated regions formed by turning the laser ON for 1 .5 mm were separated by unperforated regions obtained by turning the laser OFF for 2.0 mm. A portion of the packaging film was divided into 10 samples (each sample containing a 1 -inch wide strip of material) and the tensile strength at a tear line of each sample was measured by pulling the film at 2 inches per minute in accordance with ASTM D 882. The average tensile strength at the tear line was measured to be between about 3.9 lbs/in² and about 4.1 lbs/in².

[0059] A second portion of the packaging film was shrink wrapped around six rows of beverage cans (two cans in each row) to form packaging assembly having tear lines centered between each row of cans. The packaging film performed well and the beverage cans were sufficiently retained by the packaging film as the packaging assembly was lifted and moved. Rows of cans were capable of being torn from the packaging assembly through the application of force at any of the tear lines. The remainder of the packaging assembly also retained its structure and strength after removal of one or more rows of cans.

[0060] Example 2: A packaging film (a multi-layer polyolefin packaging film having a thickness of from about 2.25 mil to about 2.75 mil) was perforated using a laser to form a series of five tear lines. In forming the perforated tear lines, lasers were cycled between ON and OFF positions as the film was passed through the perforation system. The perforated regions of the outer tear lines were formed by turning the laser ON for 1 .25 mm followed by turning the laser OFF for 2.0 mm to obtain unperforated regions. The perforated regions of the inner tear lines were formed by turning the laser ON for 1 .50 mm followed by turning the laser OFF for 2.0 mm to obtain unperforated regions. A portion of the packaging film was divided into 10 samples (each sample containing a 1 -inch wide strip of material) and the tensile strength at the outer tear lines was measured by pulling the film at 2 inches per minute in accordance with ASTM D 882. The average tensile strength at the outer tear lines was measured to be about 4.3 lbs/in².

[0061] A portion of the packaging film was shrink wrapped around six rows of beverage cans (two cans in each row) to form packaging assembly having tear lines centered between each row of cans. The packaging film performed well and the beverage cans were sufficiently retained by the packaging film as the packaging assembly was lifted and moved. Rows of cans were capable of being torn from the packaging assembly through the application of force at any of the tear lines. The remainder of the packaging assembly also retained its structure and strength after removal of one or more rows of cans. It was also observed that the outer tear lines were a little stronger than the inner tear lines, but each tear line was capable of being torn at the user's discretion.

[0062] Example 3: A packaging film (a multi-layer polyolefin packaging film having a thickness of from about 2.25 mil to about 2.75 mil) was perforated using a laser to form a series of five tear lines, each having the varied perforation pattern shown in Table 1 . A portion of the packaging film was divided into 5 samples (each sample containing a 1 -inch wide strip of material) and the tensile strength of each sample was measured by pulling the film at 12 inches per minute. The average tensile strength of the tear lines was measured and shown in Table 1 . [0063] Table 1 :

[0064] A second portion of the packaging film was shrink wrapped around six rows of beverage cans (two cans in each row) to form packaging assembly having tear lines centered between each row of cans. The narrow regions of the tear lines (regions 1 , 3, and 5) were centered laterally over the tops and bottoms of the cans, and the wider regions of the tear lines (regions 2 and 4) were centered along the longitudinal sides of the cans. The packaging film performed well and the beverage cans were sufficiently retained by the packaging film as the packaging assembly was lifted and moved. Rows of cans were capable of being torn from the packaging assembly through the application of force at any of the tear lines. The remainder of the packaging assembly also retained its structure and strength after removal of one or more rows of cans. It was also observed that the top regions (regions 1 , 3, and 5) were easier to break and tear (e.g., for the insertion of one or more fingers to initiate a tear in the film) as compared to the side regions, but both regions were capable of being torn at the user's discretion.

[0065] Example 4: A packaging film (a multi-layer polyolefin packaging film having a thickness of from about 2.25 mil to about 2.75 mil) was perforated using a laser to form a series of six tear lines. In forming the perforated tear lines, lasers were cycled between ON and OFF positions as the film was passed through the perforation system. Perforated regions formed by turning the laser ON for 1 .5 mm were separated by unperforated regions obtained by turning the laser OFF for 2.0 mm. A portion of the packaging film was shrink wrapped around six rows of beverage cans (two cans in each row) to form packaging assembly having tear lines in-line with the rows of the cans. The packaging film performed well and the beverage cans were sufficiently retained by the packaging film as the packaging assembly was lifted and moved. Rows of cans were capable of being torn from the packaging assembly through the application of force at any of the tear lines. The remainder of the packaging assembly also retained its structure and strength after removal of one or more rows of cans.

[0066] Any methods disclosed herein comprise one or more steps or actions for performing the described method. The method steps and/or actions may be interchanged with one another. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is required for proper operation of the embodiment, the order and/or use of specific steps and/or actions may be modified.

[0067] References to approximations are made throughout this specification, such as by use of one or more of the terms "about," "approximately," "substantially," and "generally." For each such reference, it is to be understood that, in some embodiments, the value, feature, or characteristic may be specified without approximation. For example, where such a qualifier is used, the term includes within its scope the qualified word in the absence of the qualifier.

[0068] Reference throughout this specification to "an embodiment" or "the embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the quoted phrases, or variations thereof, as recited throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the above description of embodiments, various features are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that any embodiment requires every feature shown in a particular drawing.

[0069] Unless otherwise noted, the terms "a" or "an" are to be construed as meaning "at least one of." In addition, for ease of use, the words "including" and "having" are interchangeable with and have the same meaning as the word "comprising." Recitation of the term "first" with respect to a feature or element does not necessarily imply the existence of a second or additional such feature or element.

[0070] The claims following this written disclosure are hereby expressly incorporated into the present written disclosure, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment. This disclosure includes all permutations of the independent claims with their dependent claims. Moreover, additional embodiments capable of derivation from the independent and dependent claims that follow are also expressly incorporated into the present written description.

[0071] Without further elaboration, it is believed that one skilled in the art can use the preceding description to utilize the invention to its fullest extent. The claims and embodiments disclosed herein are to be construed as merely illustrative and exemplary, and not a limitation of the scope of the present disclosure in any way. It will be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art, with the aid of the present disclosure, that changes may be made to the details of the above-described embodiments without departing from the underlying principles of the disclosure herein. In other words, various modifications and improvements of the embodiments specifically disclosed in the description above are within the scope of the appended claims. The scope of the invention is therefore defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1 . A packaging assembly, comprising:

a first container and a second container;

a film wrapped around a portion of each of the first and second containers such that the film is configured to retain each of the first and second containers in a substantially fixed position within the packaging assembly;

wherein the film comprises a first tear line disposed between the first and second container, wherein the first tear line extends around a perimeter of the film between the first and second container, wherein the first tear line comprises a tensile strength of between about 2.5 and about 5.5 lbs/in².

2. The packaging assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first tear line comprises a first region and a second region, wherein the tensile strength of the first region is less than the tensile strength of the second region.

3. The packaging assembly of claim 2, wherein the second region extends along a side of the packaging assembly.

4. The packaging assembly of claim 1 , further comprising a third container and a second tear line, wherein the second tear line is disposed between the second and third container, wherein the tensile strength of the second tear line differs from the tensile strength of the first tear line.

5. The packaging assembly of claim 4, wherein the tensile strength of the first tear line is less than the tensile strength of the second tear line.

6. The packaging assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first container is removed from the packaging assembly via tearing the film at the tear line.

7. The packaging assembly of claim 1 , wherein the film comprises a polymeric film.

8. The packaging assembly of claim 1 , wherein the film comprises a thermoplastic film.

9. The packaging assembly of claim 1 , wherein the film comprises a shrinkable film.

10. A packaging assembly, comprising:

a first row of containers, a second row of containers, and a third row of containers;

a film wrapped around a portion of the first, second, and third rows of containers such that the film is configured to retain each of the first, second, and third rows of containers in a substantially fixed position within the packaging assembly;

wherein the film comprises:

a first tear line disposed between the first and second rows of containers, wherein the first tear line extends around a perimeter of the film between the first and second rows of containers; and

a second tear line disposed between the second and third rows of containers, wherein the second tear line extends around a perimeter of the film between the second and third rows of containers

wherein the tensile strength of the first tear line differs from the tensile strength of the second tear line.

1 1 . The packaging assembly of claim 10, wherein the tensile strength of the first tear line is greater than the tensile strength of the second tear line.

12. The packaging assembly of claim 10, wherein the tensile strength of the first tear line is less than the tensile strength of the second tear line.

13. The packaging assembly of claim 10, wherein the first tear line comprises a first region and a second region, wherein the tensile strength of the first region is less than the tensile strength of the second region.

14. The packaging assembly of claim 13, wherein the second region extends along a side of the packaging assembly.

15. A method of packaging a plurality of containers, the method comprising:

applying a first tear line to a film, wherein the first tear line comprises a tensile strength of between about 2.5 and about 5.5 lbs/in²;

disposing a film around a plurality of containers such that the first tear line is disposed between a first and second container; and

shrinking the film around the plurality of containers.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first tear line comprises a first region and a second region, wherein the tensile strength of the first region is different than the tensile strength of the second region.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the second region extends along a side of the packaging assembly.

18. The method of claim 15, wherein the first tear line extends around a perimeter of the film between the first and second container.

19. The method of claim 15, further comprising:

applying a second tear line to the film, wherein the tensile strength of the second tear line is different than the tensile strength of the first tear line.

20. The method of claim 15, wherein the plurality of containers are arranged in two or more rows.