Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
1
Folded Sheet Product
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to folded sheet products,
whether in a folded or unfolded condition.
Backgrbund of the Invention
It is known from European Patent No. EP-A-288 472 to
provide a folded sheet product comprising folded sheet
with a first and second set of concertina folds, which
sets of folds are transverse to one another. Provision of
such folded sheets with stiff portions at segments of the
z5 sheet ~in the region of diagonally opposite corners of the
sheet provides a means of easily unfolding and refolding
the sheet material.
Manufacturers of pharmaceuticals must supply product
2o information with the products they sell, in particular
with pre-packaged products that are sold without
prescription. This product information is important so
that the purchaser is aware of the manner in which the
product should be used, the dosage, any possible side
' 25 effects of taking the product and what to do in an
emergency.
This type of product information is generally enclosed in
the packaging of the product in the form of a leaflet . A
30' problem associated with such products, is that consumers
rarely read the product information set out on the
leaflet. Also, the leaflet often remains wedged in the
packaging and is disposed of with the packaging once the
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
2
product has been removed therefrom. Furthermore, as a
result of automated and high speed packaging processes the
wrong leaflet can be supplied with a product.
Manufacturers of other products such as shampoos, moisture
creams, cosmetics, instant coffee, artificial sweeteners,
seeds for gardening etc, often use blister strips to
distribute samples of their products for advertising
purposes. A disadvantage of this arrangement is that only
a limited amount of product information, if any at all,
can be displayed on blister strips.
It is an aim of preferred embodiments of the present
invention to overcome problems associated with the prior
art, whether mentioned herein or otherwise.
Summary of the Invention.
Generally, unless otherwise stated herein, the phrase
"sheet" is hereby defined as a material that takes folds
at which is can be unfolded without the~folds disappearing
and refolded. It may be paper, or a paper-like material
such as plastics sheet on which books are commonly
printed, or may be very thin card or any other suitable
material. It is conceivable that the sheet material may
be stiff card except at the folds, e.g. very thin stiff
cards interconnected by paper or cloth, but this is
deprecated as not allowing full realisation of the
advantages of the invention.
The present invention provides a folded sheet product
comprising a folded sheet having a first set of folds and
a blister strip attached to a segment of said sheet.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
3
Unless otherwise stated herein, the phrase "blister strip"
means a packaging arrangement comprising a cover sheet and
a substrate. The cover sheet comprises one or more
indentations in which a product can be contained. The
substrate is. attached to the cover sheet so as to cover
the openings of the indentations and thereby seal the
product therein. The substrate usually comprises a foil
or film material that can be easily ruptured or pierced to
1o release the product by pushing the exterior surface of the
indentation inwards. However, the substrate may be such
that it ~is less easily ruptured. In this case, the
substrate and or the cover sheet must be cut or torn in
the region of the indentation to release the product.
The blister strip may be attached directly or indirectly
to the folded sheet.
Suitably, the blister strip is located at or near a corner
2o segment of the sheet. If the sheet comprises a single row
of segments, the blister strip is suitably located at an
end segment of the row.
The blister strip may be attached to a segment of the
sheet by any suitable means, for example, by an adhesive.
Heat sealing techniques may be used to attach the blister
strip to a segment of the sheet.
The substrate of the blister strip may be attached to the
3o folded sheet. Alternatively, the substrate of the blister
strip may be provided by a segment of the sheet.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
4
Suitably, the segment of the sheet to which the blister
strip is attached comprises perforations. The
perforations are arranged to facilitate removal of the
product from the blister strip. Suitably, the
perforations correspond in location with the openings) of
the indentations) of the cover sheet of the blister
strip. The perforations may be substantially X shaped.
Alternatively, or in addition, the segment of the sheet to
1o which the blister strip is attached may comprise one or
more cut out sections, which one or more cut out sections
suitably correspond in location with the openings) of the
indentations) of the cover sheet of the blister strip.
The one or more perforations and/or cut out sections may
define an opening in the sheet having any suitable shape
for example, circular or rectangular. Suitably, the one
or more openings defined by the one or more perforations
and/or cut out sections has or have dimensions which
2o correspond substantially with the dimensions of the one or
more openings of the indentations of the blister strip. A
single cut out section and/or perforated region may be
provided for each indentation of the blister strip.
Alternatively, a single cut out section and/or perforated
region may be provided for a plurality of indentations of
the blister strip.
Suitably, a folded sheet product in accordance with the
present invention further comprises a stiff portion.
3o Suitably, the stiff portion is attached to a segment of
the folded sheet. The stiff portion may be provided by
the blister strip.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
Alternatively, the stiff portion may be separate from the
blister strip. If the stiff portion is separate from the
blister strip, the stiff portion may be attached to the
blister strip or the stiff portion may be at a separate
5 segment of the sheet.
The substrate of the blister strip may be attached to the
stiff portion. Alternatively, an edge of the stiff
portion may be attached to an edge of the blister strip.
to
Suitably, the stiff portion is substantially the same size
and/or shape as the blister strip.
An edge of the stiff portion may be attached to an edge of
the blister strip by any suitable means. For example, the
stiff portion and/or the blister strip may have a marginal
flange extending along a portion of the edge for
attachment therebetween. The marginal flange may extend
along a major portion or substantially the full length of
2o the edge.
If the marginal flange extends from the stiff portion it
may be attached directly to the blister strip.
Alternatively, the marginal flange of the stiff portion
may be attached indirectly to the blister strip. The
blister strip may also comprise a marginal flange, to
which the marginal flange of the stiff portion is either
directly or indirectly attached.
3o If the marginal flange extends from the blister strip it
may be attached directly to the stiff portion.
Alternatively, the marginal flange of the blister strip
may be attached indirectly to the stiff portion.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
6
The marginal flange may be attached to the stiff portion
and/or the blister strip be any suitably means, for
example, by means of an adhesive.
The marginal flange may comprise a line of weakness, e.g.
a perforated tear line, extending along the length thereof
to facilitate removal of the blister strip from the stiff
portion.
Suitably, a fold line is provided between the marginal
flange and the edge of the stiff portion and/or the edge
of the blister strip from which it extends.
Suitably, the blister strip can be arranged to lie flat
against the stiff portion.
The marginal flange may be an extension of the stiff
portion and/or the blister strip, which may form another
2o stiff portion. Alternatively, the marginal flange may be
provided by a tab which is attached to the edge of the
stiff portion and/or the blister strip.
Once an edge of the blister strip has been attached to an
edge of the stiff portion, one or more of the free edges
of the blister strip may be fastened to a corresponding
edge of the stiff 'portion by fastening means in order to
maintain the blister strip folded against the stiff
portion. Suitably, the fastening means temporarily fasten
the one or more free edges of the blister strip against
the stiff portion. The fastening means may be re-usable,
so that the blister strip may be unfastened and then
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
7
refastened in its folded condition against the stiff
portion.
Suitable fastening means are disclosed in GB 2263885 as
referred to below.
The blister strip may be attached to the stiff portion at
a plurality of edges. Suitably, opposing edges of the
blister strip are. attached to corresponding opposing edges
of the stiff portion. Suitably, one or both of the
marginal flanges comprises a line of weakness to
facilitate separation of an edge of the blister strip from
the corresponding edge of the stiff portion.
The blister strip may be arranged relative to the stiff
portion such that the cover sheet is adjacent the stiff
portion or such that the substrate is adjacent the stiff
portion.
2o Suitably, the stiff portion is located at or near a corner
segment of the sheet. If the sheet comprises a single row
of segments, the stiff portion is suitably located at an
end segment of the row.
Suitably, a stiff portion and a separate blister strip are
located at substantially diagonally opposite corners of
the sheet.
The stiff portion may comprise one or more folds dividing
the stiff portion into separate stiff portion segments.
Suitably, the one or more folds is or are parallel to an
edge of the stiff portion. If the stiff portion comprises
a plurality of folds, the plurality are suitably parallel
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
8
to one another. Suitably the plurality of folds form a
spine when folded.
A folded sheet in accordance with the present invention
may comprise a second stiff portion. Suitably, the second
stiff portion is located at or near a corner segment of
the sheet. Preferably, the second stiff portion is
located at a segment of the sheet, which is diagonally
opposite the segment at which the first stiff portion is
to located.
The second stiff portion may be provided by a second
blister strip.
A stiff portion may be provided by a segment of the sheet
that has been treated to make it stiffer than the rest of
the sheet. For example, a segment may be soaked in a W
curable resin and then cured to provide the stiff portion.
2o Suitably, the blister strip provides an outside cover of
the sheet when the sheet is in a folded condition. If the
folded sheet material comprises a stiff portion, the stiff
portion suitably provides an outside cover of the sheet
when the sheet is in a folded condition.
If a folded sheet in accordance with the present invention
comprises two stiff portions, both of the stiff portions
suitably provide a cover of the sheet when the sheet is in
a folded condition.
A stiff portion (like a book-cover) may comprise a fold
such that a flap-over cover is provided for the folded
sheet when in a folded condition. The fold may be
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
9
provided by two stiff portions connected together along
corresponding edges to provide a flap-over cover. As a
further alternative a flap-over cover may be provided by
two connected blister strips or a blister strip and a
stiff portion.
If a flap-over cover i.s provided, the cover suitably
comprises closure means to maintain the sheet folded.
Suitable closure means are disclosed in United Kingdom
patent specification number 2 263 885, the disclosure of
which is incorporated herein by reference.
Suitably, the first set of folds is a set of concertina
folds .
The first set of folds may form the folded sheet into a
single row of segments.
The folded sheet material may further comprise a second
2o set of folds, which second set of folds are transverse to
said first set of folds when said sheet is in a folded
condition. Suitably, said second set of folds comprises a
set of concertina folds.
Suitably, the first set of folds comprises an odd number
of folds. Suitably, the second set of folds comprises an
even number of folds.
Although one or both sets of folds may be non-parallel,
3o e.g. convergent, and/or one or both of the stiff portions
may, when the sheet is folded, not be outer portions, in a
preferred embodiment the sheet is rectangular, the sets of
folds being mutually perpendicular and parallel to the
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
respective edges of the sheet, and the stiff portions
being such as to be at the outside of the sheet when it
has been folded by the first and second set of folds and
being at least as large as the respective corner segments
5 of the sheet.
The indentations of the blister strip may be located on
the inside or the outside of the sheet when the sheet is
in a folded condition.
Tf the folded sheet comprises a row of segments the stiff
portion is suitably located at an end segment of the
folded sheet.
If the folded sheet comprises a first and second set of
folds, the stiff portion is suitably located at a corner
segment of the folded sheet.
Suitably, the stiff portion is located at the outside of
2o the sheet when it has been folded.
Suitably, a stiff portion comprises a first section and a
second section for at least partly sandwiching the blister
strip between the first section and the second section.
The folded sheet may be attached to the first and/or
second section of the stiff portion. Alternatively, or as
well, the folded sheet may be attached to a further
section of the stiff portion.
Suitably, the sections of the stiff portion are of
substantially the same size. However, the sections of the
stiff portions may be of different sizes.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
11
Suitably, the first section of the stiff portion is at
least as large as the segment of the sheet to which it is
attached.
Suitably, the second section of the stiff portion attaches
the blister strip to the first section of the stiff
portion.
lo' Although the first and second sections of the stiff
portion may be provided by separate elements, the first
and second sections are preferably provided by a single
element and are separated from one another by means of a
fold line.
The folded sheet may be attached to one surface of the
stiff portion and the blister strip is connected to
another surface of the stiff portion.
2o The stiff portion may comprise a second stiff portion to
which the folded sheet is attached. Preferably, the third
section is attached to the first section. Although, the
third section may be attached to the second section.
Suitably, the second stiff portion is separated from the
first stiff portion by a further fold line.
Suitably, a cover portion is provided to cover the blister
pack. Suitably, the cover portion comprises a further
stiff portion.
Suitably, the folded sheet is provided at a first stiff
portion, the blister pack is provided at a second stiff
portion and the cover portion is a third stiff portion.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
12
Suitably, the stiff portions are foldably connected.
Suitably, the first stiff portion is between the second
and third stiff portions whereby the second stiff portion
can fold over the folded sheet and the third stiff portion
can cover at least partly, the second stiff portion.
Suitably, part of the third stiff portion is attached to
the second portion. Suitably, the part of the third
portion attached to the second portion is releasably
to connected to another part of the third portion, preferably
by a perforation, whereby the blister pack can be accessed
by separating the attached part of the third stiff portion
from the rest of the third stiff portion.
A fastening means may be provided by a tongue and slot
(which term includes a slit) arrangement of the second and
third stiff portions. Suitably, the tongue' is on the
third stiff portion and the slot is on the second stiff
portion. Suitably, the tongue is provided by removing the
attached parts of third stiff portion from the rest.
Any of the sections of the stiff portion may be separated
from one another by means of a plurality of fold lines.
Suitably, the plurality of fold lines are substantially
parallel to one another.
A plurality of fold lines may be used to provide a spine
between one section of the stiff portion and another when
the stiff portion is folded about the fold lines. The
3o width of the spine may be used to take account of the
thickness of the blister strip attached to the article.
The width of the spine may be determined by the thickness
of the blister strip. Suitably, the width of the spine
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
13
between the outer most fold lines of the plurality of fold
lines corresponds substantially with the thickness of the
blister strip.
The second section of the stiff portion suitably comprises
one or more openings therein. The opening in the second
section of the stiff portion is suitably configured to
receive indentations of a blister strip, when a blister
strip is attached to the stiff portion.
The second section may comprise a plurality of openings
each of a size suitable to receive one indentation of a
blister strip.
The second section may comprise one or more openings of a
size suitable to receive a plurality of indentations of a
blister strip.
The openings in the second section of the stiff portion by
2o have a shape that corresponds to the shape of the
indentations of a blister strip. Alternatively, the
openings of the second section of the stiff portion may
have a novelty shape, for example, a star shape.
The second section may provide one or more separators
between the indentations of a blister strip. The or each
separator may be configured to separate rows and/or
columns of indentations of the blister strip.
3o Suitably, a stiff portion comprises perforations.
Suitably, the perforations correspond in location with the
opening of the indentations of the cover sheet of the
blister strip when attached thereto.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
14
The first section may comprise one or more cut out
sections, which sections correspond in location with the
openings of the indentations of the cover sheet of the
blister strip when attached thereto. The first section
may provide one or more separators between openings of the
indentations of the blister strip. The or each separator
may separate rows and/or columns of openings of the
indentations of the blister strip.
to
The perforations and/or cut out sections in the first
stiff portion are arranged to facilitate removal of the
product from the blister strip.
s5 The perforations and/or cut out sections may define an
opening in the stiff portion having any suitable shape,
for example, circular or rectangular. The perforations
may be substantially X-shapes. Suitably, the openings
defined by the perforations and/or cut out sections have
20 dimensions that correspond substantially with the
dimensions of the openings of the indentations.
A single perforated region and/or cut out section may be
provided for each indentation of the blister strip.
25 Alternatively, a single cut out section and/or perforated
region may be provided for a plurality of indentations of
the blister strip.
As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, the
30 openings in second section and/or the cut out sections or
perforated regions of the first section may have
dimensions slightly greater than the indentations or
openings of the indentations respectively to allow for
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
intolerances in locating the blister strip on the stiff
portion.
Suitably, in use of a preferred embodiment of the present
5 invention, a blister strip is located on a surface of the
first section of a stiff portion. The second section is
then folded over the first section, such that the
protrusions of the blister strip are received in the one
or more openings of the second section and the first and
1o second sections are then attached to one another.
The first and second sections may be attached to one
another by any suitable means, for example, by means of an
adhesive. A tamper-proof adhesive may be used, such as a
15 glue that changes colour on exposure to air. The first
and second sections may be attached to one another using a
heat sealing technique.
If the folded sheet is located on a third section of the
2o stiff portion, the third section is suitably folded over
the first and second sections. In this case, the
protrusions of the blister strip are suitably covered by
the third section of the stiff portion. The third section
would then provide a degree of protection for the blister
strip. The folded sheet may be located either inside or
outside of the article when the third section is folded
over the first and second sections.
The stiff portion may be provided with closure means,
3o arranged to fasten the second stiff portion in a position
wherein it is folded over the first stiff portion. Any
suitable closure means may be used, for example, as
described in GB 2 263 885 as referred to above.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
16
The stiff portion may by arrnaged to allow a plurality of
blister strips to be attached thereto.
The stiff portion may comprise more than three sections.
Suitably, the plurality of sections of the stiff portion
are arranged to longitudinally abut one another.
1o According to the present invention in a second aspect,
there is provided a folded sheet product comprising a
folded sheet having at least a first set of folds, and a
stiff portion at a segment of said sheet, in which the
stiff portion comprises a tongue portion formable by
removing at least one part of the stiff portion which part
is separated from the tongue portion by a frangible
region.
Suitably, the frangible region is formed by a weakening of
2o the stiff portion., which weakening is preferably formed by
perforations.
According to the present invention in a third aspect,
there is provided a folded sheet product comprising a
folded sheet having a first set of folds and a stiff
portion forming a sealable cover about the folded sheet,
which product further comprises a tamper evident feature.
Suitably, the tamper evident feature comprises the cover
3o being sealable whereby breaking the seal is visible.
Suitably, part of the cover is separable from another part
of the cover to open the product.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
17
Suitably, a cover portion is provided to cover the blister
pack. Suitably, the cover portion comprises a further
stiff portion.
Suitably, the folded sheet is provided at a first stiff
portion, the blister pack is provided at a second stiff
portion and the cover portion is a third stiff portion.
Suitably, the stiff portions are foldably connected.
Suitably, the first stiff portion is between the second
1o and third stiff portions whereby the second stiff portion
can fold over the folded sheet and the third stiff portion
can cover at least partly, the second stiff portion.
Suitably, part of the third portion is attached to the
second portion. Suitably, the part of the third portion
attached to the second portion is releasably connected to
another part of the third portion, preferably by a
perforation, whereby the blister pack can be accessed by
separating the attached part of the third stiff portion
from the rest of the third stiff portion.
A fastening means may be a tongue and groove arrangement
of the second and third stiff portions. Suitably, the
tongue is on the third stiff portion and the groove is on
the second stiff portion. Suitably, the tongue is
provided by removing the attached parts of third stiff
portion from the rest.
The present invention finds particular advantage in
3o respect of medical products in tablet form. However, the
present invention does not find its only application in
medical products and can be used in respect of any goods
that can suitably be stored in and dispensed from blister
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
18
strips, for example, product samples for advertising
purposes.
In order to ensure that the information leaflet
corresponds to the product in the blister strip, a
corresponding barcode may be applied to the sheet and the
blister strip. During assembly of the product a barcode
reader would then be used to check that the codes
correspond and only allow assembly of the product when
this is the case.
Another advantage of the present invention resides in the
fact that the information leaflet is part of or attached
to the blister strip and in some cases no additional
packaging is required. This means products or samples are
easier to manufacture and cheaper to manufacture.
However, once assembled the finished product may be
subjected to further packaging, such as shrink wrapping or
2o packaging in a box.
Brief Description of the Drawings
The present invention will now be described, by way of
example only, with reference to the following drawings, in
which:
Figure 1 shows a plan view of a first embodiment of a
folded sheet material in accordance with the present
3o invention in a folded condition:
Figure 2 shows a plan view of the sheet of figure 1 in a
partially unfolded condition.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
19
Figure 3 shows the sheet of figures 1 and 2 in an unfolded
condition.
Figure 4 shows a side view of the sheet of figures 1, 2
and 3 in a folded condition.
Figure 5 shows a front plan view of a second embodiment of
a folded sheet material in accordance with the present
invention in a substantially unfolded condition.
Figure 6 shows a rear plan view of the sheet of figure 5.
Figure 7 shows a side view of a third embodiment of a
folded sheet material in accordance with the present
invention, in a folded condition.
Figure 8 shows a side view of a fourth embodiment of the
present invention.
Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of
a sheet in accordance with the present invention in a
partially unfolded condition.
Figure 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the
folded sheet material of Figure 9.
Figure 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the
folded sheet material of Figure 10.
Figure 12 illustrates a variation of the embodiment of the
folded sheet of Figures 5 and 6.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
Figure 13 illustrates a perspective view of a sixth
embodiment of a folded sheet material in accordance with
the present invention, in a partially unfolded condition.
5 Figure 14 illustrates a seventh embodiment of a folded
sheet material in accordance with 'the present invention,
in a folded condition.
Figure 15 illustrates an eighth embodiment of a folded
2o sheet in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 16 shows the embodiment of Fig 15 with a blister
strip located thereon.
15 Figure 17 shows the embodiment of Fig 16 is a partially
folded condition.
Figure 18 shows an alternative arrangement of the
embodiment of Fig 15.
Figure 19 shows a ninth embodiment of the present
invention.
Figure 20 shows the embodiment of Figure 19 with a
plurality of blister strips located thereon.
Figure 21 shows a side view of tenth embodiment of the
present invention.
3o Figure 22 shows a plan view of part of the embodiment of
figure 21 in an unfolded condition.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
21
Figure 23 shows a plan view of Figure 22 in a folded
condition.
Figure 24 shows a plan view of the article of Figure 21.
Figure 25 shows a side view of an eleventh embodiment of
the present invention.
Figure 26 is a plan view of part of Figure 25 in an
to unfolded condition.
Figure 27 is a side view of a twelfth embodiment of the
present invention.
Figures 28A-28F are perspective views of a thirteenth
embodiment of the present invention.
Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments
2o Figures 1, 2, 3 and 4 show a first embodiment of a folded
sheet product 2 in accordance with the present invention.
The folded sheet product 2 of figures 1, 2, 3 and 4
comprises a folded sheet 3 blister strip 4; providing a
first stiff portion, a second stiff portion 6, a first set
of folds 10 (represented by broken lines in figure 3) and
a second set of folds 12 (represented by dotted lines in
ffigure 3).
3o The stiff portion is relatively stiffer than the material
at the folded sheet 3.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
22
Both the first set of folds 10 and the second set of folds
12 comprises a set of concertina folds.
The sheet 3 is a paper material.
The blister strip 4 is located at a corner segment 14 of
the sheet 3. The second stiff portion is located at a
corner segment 16 of the sheet 3. The corner segments 14
and 16 are at diagonally opposite corner segments of the
to sheet 3.
As can be more clearly seen from figure 4, the blister
strip 4 comprises a cover sheet 18 comprising a plurality
of indentations 20. The substrate of the blister strip 4,
which covers the openings in the indentations, is provided
by the segment 14 of the sheet 3 at which the blister
strip 4 is located. The dashed markings on figure 3
indicate the locations of the indentations 20. In this
case, the folded sheet material 3 should be such that it
2o is easily ruptured by pushing the indentations 20 inwards
to release the product (not shown) contained within the
indentations 20.
Figures 5 and 6 illustrate a second embodiment of the
invention.
The folded sheet product 30 illustrated in figures 5 and 6
comprises a folded sheet 31, a blister strip 32, providing
a stiff portion and a first set of folds 33 (represented
3o by broken lines).
The blister strip 32 comprises a cover sheet 34 comprising
a plurality of indentations 36, the substrate of the
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
23
blister strip 32 is again provided by the segment of the
sheet 38 at which the blister strip 32 is provided.
In this case, the sheet comprises perforations 40
(represented by broken lines), which perforations
correspond with the location of the openings in the
indentations 36 (indicated in figure 6 by dotted lines).
Therefore, when an indentation 36 is pushed inwards to
release the product contained therein (not shown), the
1o corresponding perforations 40 tear to release the product.
Figure 7 illustrates a third embodiment of a folded sheet
product 50 in accordance with the present invention.
l5 The folded sheet product 50 of figure 7 comprises a folded
sheet 51, a first stiff portion 52, a second~stiff portion
54 and a blister strip 56. The folded sheet 51 comprises .
at least a first set of folds 58 and may comprise a second
set of folds (not shown)..
The blister strip 56 comprises a cover sheet 60 comprising
a plurality of indentations 62 in which a product (not
shown) can be located. The blister strip 56 further
comprises a substrate 64 which is easily pierced or
ruptured by pushing an indentation 62 inwards to release
the product contained therein.
In this case, the first stiff portion 52 comprises a
material that is also easily pierced or ruptured when an
3o indentation 62 is pushed inwards to release the product
contained therein. Alternatively, the stiff portion
comprises perforations that correspond to the openings in
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
24
the indentations 62, as discussed in relation to the
embodiment shown in figure 6.
Figure 8 illustrates a folded sheet product 70 in
accordance with the present invention, comprising a folded
sheet 72, a blister strip 74 and a stiff portion 76.
When in a folded condition, the blister strip 74 of the
folded sheet product 70 is located on the inside of the
to sheet. The stiff portion 76 is located on the outside of
the folded sheet 72 and thereby provides a cover for said
sheet 72.
A folded sheet product 70 as illustrated in f figure 8 may
further comprise a second stiff portion 78 as denoted by
dashed lines in figure 8. The second stiff potion is
located on the outside of the sheet 72 when the folded
sheet product 70 is in a folded condition. The second
stiff portion 78 also provides a cover for the sheet 72
when the folded sheet product 70 is in a folded condition.
Figure 9 illustrates a folded sheet product 90 in
accordance with fifth embodiment of the present invention.
The folded sheet product 90 comprises a folded sheet 92,
comprising a first set of concertina folds, a first stiff
portion 94, a second stiff portion 95 and a blister strip
96.
3o The first stiff portion 94 is separated from second stiff
portion 95 by a fold 98. The blister strip comprises
indentations 100.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
In a folded condition, the stiff portions 94, 95 (forming
stiff portion segments) fold about fold line 98 to provide
a cover for the folded sheet 92. In this embodiment the
blister strip 96 is located on the inside surface of the
5 second stiff portion 95.
In an alternative embodiment (not shown), blister strip 96
is located on the outside surface of the stiff portion 95.
1o Figure 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the
folded sheet product 90 of Fig. 9. In this embodiment the
blister strip 96 is located on the outside surface of the
end segment 102 of the folded sheet 92. In an alternative
embodiment (not shown) the blister strip 96 may be located
15 on the inside surface of the end segment 102 of the folded
sheet 92.
Furthermore, the stiff portion 94 comprises two fold lines
98a and 98b defining a spine 99. The stiff portions 94,
20 95 provide a cover which folds about fold lines 98a and
98b to enclose the folded sheet 92 and the blister strip
96.
Figure 11 shows an alternative arrangement of the
25 embodiment of Figure 10, wherein like numerals refer to
like features. The embodiment of Figure 11 comprises
stiff portion 94, 95 which comprise fold lines 98a and 98b
parallel to the narrow edge of the folded sheet 92 and the
stiff portions 94, 95. The stiff portions 94, 95 again
3o providing a flap-over cover by means of folds 98a and 98b.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
26
Figure 12 shows a variation of the embodiments shown in
Figures 5 and 6, wherein like features are represented by
like reference numerals.
Like the embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6, the folded
sheet product 30 illustrated in Figure 12 comprises a
folded sheet 31, a blister strip 32, providing a stiff
portion and a first set of folds 33 (represented by dashed
1 roes ) .
The blister strip 32 comprises a cover sheet 34 comprising
a plurality of indentations 36 (represented by dotted
lines). The substrate of the blister strip is provided by
a foil sheet 37.
In place of perforations 40 of Figure 6, the sheet product
30 of Figure 12 comprises cut out sections 39, which
correspond with the location of the openings of the
indentations 36. The columns of indentations 36 are
2o separated by a separator 41. As the indentation 36 is
pushed inwards, the foil tears and the product passes out
of the opening, through the broken foil substrate 37 and
through the cut of section 39 of the sheet.
Figure 13, shows a sixth embodiment of a folded sheet
product 100 in accordance with the present invention.
The folded sheet product 100 comprises a folded sheet 101
within first set of concertina folds 102 and a second fold
104. The folded sheet product 100 further comprises a
first stiff portion 106 and a second stiff portion 107
foldably connected thereto by a fold line 108, which fold
line is around the centre of the stiff portions 106, 107
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
27
and is substantially parallel with the short edge of the
stiff portion 106 as illustrated in Figure 13. The folded
sheet product 100 further comprises a blister strip 110
attached to the outer surface of a segment 112 of the
stiff portion 107.
In a folded condition, the sheet 101 of the folded sheet
product 100 is folded by means of concertina folds 102 and
then folded in half along fold line 104. The adjacent end
1o segments of each row of the folded sheet 101 are attached
to each segment of. the respective stiff portions 106, 107.
Therefore, when the sheet 101 is folded in half along fold
line 104, the stiff portion is folded in half along fold
line 108.
When in a folded condition, the stiff portions 106, 107
provide a cover for the folded sheet 101. The folded
sheet product 100, may be provided with suitable closure
means to maintain the article in a folded condition.
In this embodiment, the blister strip 110 is located with
the indentations (not shown) on the external surface of
the second stiff portion 107. However, the blister strip
110 may be located in any other suitable location of the
folded sheet material 100.
To open the folded sheet, the stiff portions 106, 107 are
unfolded about fold line 108 which in turn causes sheet
101 to be unfolded about fold line 104. The sheet can
3o then be unfolded about concertina folds 102 by pulling the
free edge 116 of the sheet 101 in the direction
illustrated by arrow A.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
28
Figure 14 shows a folded sheet product 120, which
comprises a first stiff portion 122, a second stiff
portion 124, a folded sheet 126, a blister strip 128 and a
pocket 130.
The pocket 130 comprises a cover portion 132, which cover
portion 132 has a cut .out section 134. The pocket 130 may
also comprise a base portion (not shown), which base
portion would require a cut out section (not shown)
corresponding with cut out section 134.
The blister strip 128 comprises indentations 136, which
indentations 136 protrude through the cut out section 134
when the blister strip 128 is inserted in the pocket 130,
Z5 as illustrated.
In order to allow for removal of the product contained in
the indentations 136 whilst the blister strip 128 remains
in the pocket 130, a cut out section (not shown)
2o corresponding to cut out section 134 could be provided in
the second stiff portion 124. If the second stiff portion
124 is attached to a segment of the sheet 126 a
corresponding cut out section would need to be provided in
the sheet. Alternatively, the second stiff portion 124
25 and/or the sheet 126 may comprise perforated sections (not
shown) which correspond with the openings (not shown) of
the indentations 136.
The blister strip 128 is inserted into the pocket 130
3o through opening 138. Once all the product has been
removed from the indentations 136 of the blister strip
128, the blister strip 128 may be removed from the pocket
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
29
130 via opening 138 and a replacement strip 128 may be
inserted into the pocket 130.
The second stiff portion 124 may be omitted from the
folded sheet material 120. In which case, the pocket 130
or the folded sheet 126, or the blister strip 128 may
serve as a replacement therefor.
The cover portion 132, at least, of the pocket 130
1o comprises material which is sufficiently deformable~ to
allow for insertion and removal of the blister strip 128
whilst maintaining a grip on the blister strip 128 to
maintain it inside the pocket 130 during use.
The opening 138 of the pocket 130 may comprise closure
means (not shown) to prevent accidental removal of the
blister strip 128 from the pocket 130.
Figure 15 shows a folded sheet product 142 comprising a
2o folded sheet 140 attached to a first stiff portion 148,
which first stiff portion 148 is foldably connected to a
second stiff portion I43 made up of a first section 144
and a second section 146.
The second section 244 is suitable for receiving a blister
strip 150, as shown in Figure 16.
The second section 146 comprises a plurality of openings
152 suitable for receiving the indentations 154 of the
3o blister strip 150.
The first section 144 of the second stiff portion 143 is
separated from the second section 146 by means of a fold
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
line 156 (indicated by broken line). The first section
144 of the second stiff portion 143 is separated from the
first stiff portion 148 by two parallel fold lines 158 and
150 (also indicated by broken lines).
5
In use of the article of Figures 15, 16 and 17, a blister
strip' 154 is located on the first section 144 of the
second stiff portion 143. The second stiff portion 143 is
then assembled by being folded along fold line 156, so
1o that the second section 146 is superimposed over the first
section 144. The openings 152 of the second section 146
are arranged to receive .the indentations 154 of the
blister strip when the second section 146 is superimposed
on the first section 144. The first section is adhered to
15 the second section by heat-sealing techniques, thus
attaching the blister strip 150 on the second stiff
portion 143 and indirectly to the folded sheet 140.
The first stiff portion 148 is then folded over the first
2o and second sections 144, 146, now together second stiff
portion 143 as illustrated by arrow A in figure 17. The
pair of fold lines 158,160 provide a degree of spacing
between the third section 148 and the first and second
sections 144, 146 to form a spine 159, so that the third
25 section 148 lies flat over the indentations 154 when
folded. The spacing of the fold lines 158, 160
corresponds to the depth of the indentations 154 and
allows for the thickness of the folded sheet.
3o Figure 18 shows the article of figures 15-17, but the
stiff portion 148 and sections 144, 146 and '148 of the
stiff portion 142 are arranged differently relative to one
another. An article as shown in figure 18 can have
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
31
manufacturing advantages over the article of figures 15-
17, in that a narrower manufacturing conveyor can. be used.
Figures 19 and 20 show an alternative embodiment of the
invention, wherein the cover 170 comprises first, second
and third foldably connected stiff portions 172, 173 and
175 respectively. Second stiff portion 173 is made up
from first and second sections 174, 17&. Third stiff
portion 175 is made up from third and fourth sections 178,
180.
A folded sheet 182 is attached to the first stiff portion
172. The first 174 and third 178 sections are each
suitable for receiving a respective blister strip 184 and
186 as shown in figure 20.
The second 176 and fourth 180 sections each comprise an
opening 188 and 190 respectively for receiving the
indentations 192 and 194 of the blister strips 174 and 178
2o respectively.
In use, the blister strips 184 and 186 are located on the
first 174 and third 178 sections of the stiff portions
173, 175 respectively.
Z5
The stiff portion 170 is then folded about fold line 196
(indicated by broken line) to superimpose the second
portion 176 onto the first portion 174. The first 176 and
third 174 sections are then adhered to one another in
30 order to attach the blister strip 184 to the stiff portion
173.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
32
The fourth section 180 is attached to the third section
178 in the same manner, by folding about fold line 198.
The first/second sections and the third/fourth sections
may then be folded over the first stiff portion 172, by
folding about parallel pairs of fold lines 200 and 202
respectively.
Although, figures 19 and 20 illustrate an article wherein
1o the blister strips 184, 186 are located on the same side
of the respective stiff portions 173, 175, the blister
strips 184, 186 may be located on opposing surfaces of the
stiff portions 173, 175. The first/second sections 174,
176 and the third/fourth sections 178, 180 may also be
folded over opposing surfaces of the first stiff portion
172.
Figures 21 to 24 show a folded sheet product 209
comprising a folded sheet 210 having a first stiff portion
212 attached to a segment thereof and a second stiff
portion 214 attached to another segment thereof.
The second stiff portion 214 comprises a marginal flange
216 extending therefrom and separated therefrom by fold
line 218. An edge of a blister strip 220 is attached to
an edge of the second stiff portion 214 by means of the
marginal flange 216.
Figures 22 and 23 show a plan view of the article of
3o Figure 21 without the blister strip 220 attached thereto.
The fold line 218 is designated by the broken line in
Figure 22.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
33
Figure 25 shows an article having a folded sheet 230 with
a first stiff portion 232 attached to a segment thereof.
First stiff portion 232 is foldably connected to second
stiff portion 236 separated from each other by a spine 238
formed by two folds 240, 242.
Opposing edges of a blister strip 244 comprising a
substrate 246 and a cover 248 are attached to
corresponding edges of the second stiff portion 236 by
, means of marginal flanges 250, 252. The marginal flanges
250, 252 are extensions of the substrate 246 of the
blister strip 248 and are separated from the blister strip
by fold lines 254, 256.
Figure 26 shows a plan view of the blister strip 244 of
Figure 26 in an unfolded condition. Flange 250 comprises
a tear line 258 illustrated by a dashed line, to provide a
means of releasing one end of the blister strip 244 from
the stiff portion 232, 236.
Figure 27 shows an article comprising a first stiff
portion 260 attached to a segment of a folded sheet 262, a
second stiff portion 264 attached to another segment of
the folded sheet 262, a tab 266 and a blister strip 268.
The tab 266 is folded along fold line 270. A first
section is attached to the second stiff portion 264 and a
second section is attached to the blister strip. 268.
3o Figures 28A-28F show a folded sheet product 280 according
to a further embodiment of the present invention. The
product 280 comprises a first stiff portion 282 foldably
connected to a second stiff portion 284, foldably
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
34
connected to a third stiff portion 286. Fold lines
separate the respective stiff portions, with spacing
spines to provide for blister pack and folded sheet
thickness.
First stiff portion 282 comprises a first tear off part
288 and a second tear off part 290 forming part of first
stiff portion 282, but frangibly connected by perforations
292 to leave a tongue part 294 of first stiff portion,
1o having a tongue 296.
A double-concertina folded sheet 298 is attached to second
stiff portion 284.
l5 A blister pack 300 is attached to third stiff portion 286,
which is made up from two foldably connected sections as
described with reference to Figures 15-18 above. Third
stiff portion 286 also includes a slot or slit 302 for
receiving tongue 296.
In use, the perforated parts 288, 290 can be torn off to
reveal a tongue 296 that can be used to re-seal the
package in slot 302. The product can then be opened as
shown.
Alternatively, perforated parts 288, 290 can be affixed
(eg adhered) to third stiff portion 286 so that tongue
part 294 must be separated therefrom to open the product
and access the blister pack 300. This had the additional
3o advantages of providing a tamper evident seal over the
blister pack 300 and also protecting it from premature
rupture.
CA 02412539 2002-12-11
WO 02/04313 PCT/GBO1/03097
The reader's attention is directed to all papers and
documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to
this specification in connection with this application and
which axe open to public inspection with this
5 specification, and the contents of all such papers and
documents are incorporated herein by reference.
All of the features disclosed in this specification
(including any accompanying claims, abstract and
2o drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or
process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination,
except combinations where at least some of such features
and/or steps are mutually exclusive.
15 Each feature disclosed in this specification (including
any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), may be
replaced by alternative features serving the same,
equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated
otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each
2o feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series
of equivalent or similar features.
The invention is not restricted to the details of the
foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extend to any novel
25 one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed
in this specification (including any accompanying claims,
abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel
combination, of the steps of any method or process so
disclosed.
