Systems and Methods for Making Tamper-Resistant Containers

This patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 18/743,368 filed on Jun. 14, 2024 and entitled “Systems And Methods For Making Tamper-Resistant Containers”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety and make part of the present U.S. utility patent application for all purposes.

The disclosed inventive subject matter relates in general to a containers and packages used for food, perishable items, consumable liquids and other items, and more specifically to tamper-resistant containers for use with carry-out, pick-up, and delivery systems and services used for food, drinks, and other items.

Carry-out, pick-up, and delivery systems and services used for food and other items are commonplace in modern society. However, such systems and services necessarily involve multiple individuals handling, packaging, and in some circumstances delivering, the food or other items such as containers and cups used to hold liquids. Customers and consumers of such systems and services are often understandably concerned about the integrity of the packaging that the food or other items is stored in prior to pick-up or delivery and about the accuracy and contents of an order. A purchase receipt is often attached to or included with food packaging that is picked-up or delivered. However, this receipt may become lost, detached, or otherwise separated from the food packaging. Additionally, the food packaging may be opened, damaged, or otherwise tampered with prior to delivery, resulting in customer concern and/or dissatisfaction. Accordingly, a food and consumable liquid packaging system that utilizes or includes tamper-resistant features is highly desirable.

The following provides a summary of certain example implementations of the disclosed technology. This summary is not an extensive overview and is not intended to identify key or critical aspects or elements of the disclosed technology or to delineate its scope. However, it is to be understood that the use of indefinite articles in the language used to describe and claim the disclosed technology is not intended in any way to limit the described technology. Rather the use of “a” or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”.

A first embodiment of the disclosed tamper-resistant container sealing system comprises a container, wherein the container includes a closed lower portion and a closeable upper portion; and an adhesive deposited at predetermined locations on the upper portion of the container, wherein the adhesive is either a self-seal cohesive material or a pressure-seal cohesive material, and wherein the adhesive is positioned to adhere to itself when the upper portion of the container is closed, thereby forming a permanent seal that cannot be broken without damaging the container and creating visual evidence of tampering with the container.

The permanent seal is formed either by applying hand pressure to the self-seal cohesive material when the upper portion of the container is closed; or applying compressive mechanical pressure to the pressure-seal cohesive material when the upper portion of the container is closed. The compressive mechanical pressure may be provided by a mechanical embosser or the like. In one implementation, the container is a paper bag, wherein the closeable upper portion includes a flap extending above a top edge of the bag, and wherein the adhesive is deposited on an inner surface of the flap and an outer surface of the top edge. In another embodiment, the container is a paper bag, wherein the closeable upper portion is square or rectangular in shape and includes four corner regions, and wherein the adhesive is deposited on each of the four corner regions.

A second embodiment of the disclosed tamper-resistant container sealing system comprises a container, wherein the container includes a closure mechanism configured to close an open end of the container; a strip of adhesive-bearing material separate from the container configured to cooperate with the closure mechanism of the container, wherein the adhesive is deposited on only one side of the strip of material and positioned to bind to itself; and a permanent seal created by the cooperation of the closure mechanism of the container and the strip of adhesive-bearing material, wherein the permanent seal cannot be broken without damaging the container, the strip of adhesive-bearing material, or both, thereby creating visual evidence of tampering with the container.

In an alternate implementation, the strip of adhesive-bearing material is configured as a label having a front side and a back side opposite the front side, wherein a broken strip of adhesive has been deposited along the length of the label or receipt on the back side thereof, and wherein the adhesive is a self-seal cohesive material or a pressure-seal cohesive material. In various implementations the strip of adhesive-bearing material is configured as a handle for carrying the container.

In an alternate implementation, the container is a bag formed from paper or similar material, wherein the closure mechanism includes a foldable top edge and a slot formed in and through the bag below the top edge, wherein the slot is configured to receive the strip of adhesive-bearing material therein, wherein contacting the adhesive-bearing side of the strip of material with itself and applying pressure forms the permanent seal. The permanent seal is formed by applying hand pressure to the self-seal cohesive material, or wherein the permanent seal is formed by applying compressive mechanical pressure to the pressure-seal cohesive material.

In an alternate implementation, the container is a bag formed from paper or similar material, wherein the closure mechanism includes a foldable top edge and an aperture formed in and through the bag below the top edge, wherein the strip of adhesive-bearing material is looped over the aperture such that the adhesive sticks to itself through the aperture and the application of force to the strip of adhesive-bearing material through the aperture forms the permanent seal. The permanent seal is formed by applying hand pressure to the self-seal cohesive material, or wherein the permanent seal is formed by applying compressive mechanical pressure to the pressure-seal cohesive material.

In an alternate implementation, the container is a plastic bag having a closable end, wherein the closable end further includes handles that may be tied together to form a knot and a loop structure, wherein the knot and loop structure is configured to receive the strip of adhesive-bearing material therein, and wherein contacting the adhesive-bearing side of the strip of material with itself and applying pressure forms the permanent seal. The permanent seal is formed by applying hand pressure to the self-seal cohesive material, or wherein the permanent seal is formed by applying compressive mechanical pressure to the pressure-seal cohesive material.

In an alternate implementation, the container the container includes a detachable or separable handle component configured to securely hold or enclose a liquid-holding container and provide a carrying handle therefore, wherein the handle component further includes a foldable body having a centrally placed aperture configured to receive a cup, and first and second slots formed in opposing ends of the body, wherein when the body is folded, the slots cooperate to form a carrying handle configured to receive the strip of adhesive-bearing material therein, and wherein contacting the adhesive-bearing side of the strip of material with itself and applying pressure forms the permanent seal. The permanent seal is formed by applying hand pressure to the self-seal cohesive material, or wherein the permanent seal is formed by applying compressive mechanical pressure to the pressure-seal cohesive material.

In an alternate implementation, the strip of adhesive-bearing material is configured as a receipt having a front side and a back side opposite the front side, wherein a broken strip of a first type of adhesive has been deposited along the length of the receipt on a middle portion of the back side thereof, wherein two broken strips of a second type of adhesive have been deposited along the length of the receipt on the back side thereof on either side of the broken strip of the first type of adhesive, wherein the first type of adhesive is a repositionable adhesive or a permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive, and wherein the second type of adhesive is a self-seal cohesive material or a pressure-seal cohesive material. The container may be a bag formed from paper or similar material, wherein the closure mechanism includes a foldable top edge and a slot formed in and through the bag below the top edge, wherein the slot is configured to receive the strip of adhesive-bearing material therein, wherein contacting the adhesive-bearing side of the strip of material with itself and applying pressure forms the permanent seal. Alternately, the container may be a bag formed from paper or similar material, wherein the closure mechanism includes a foldable top edge and an aperture formed in and through the bag below the top edge, wherein the strip of adhesive-bearing material is looped over the aperture such that the adhesive sticks to itself through the aperture and the application of force to the strip of adhesive-bearing material through the aperture forms the permanent seal. Alternately, the container may be a plastic bag having a closable end, wherein the closable end further includes handles that may be tied together to form a knot and a loop structure, wherein the knot and loop structure is configured to receive the strip of adhesive-bearing material therein, and wherein contacting the adhesive-bearing side of the strip of material with itself and applying pressure forms the permanent seal.

Another embodiment provides a method for making a tamper-resistant container, comprising depositing a first adhesive on a container, wherein the container includes a closed lower portion, a middle portion adapted for storing contents, and a closeable upper portion, wherein the first adhesive is deposited at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a first panel of the container; folding the closeable upper portion a first time; and subsequent to folding the closeable upper portion the first time, folding the closeable upper portion at least a second time such that the first adhesive contacts a second panel of the container, thereby securely sealing the container in a tamper-resistant manner.

In some implementations, the method further comprises depositing a second adhesive at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of the second panel, wherein the first panel is opposite the second panel; and folding the closeable upper portion the at least second time until the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive. In still other implementations, the method further comprises prior to folding the closeable upper portion the first time, joining together an upper area of the first panel and an upper area of the second panel such that the closeable upper portion of the container is closed; folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels the first time until the first adhesive is adjacent to the second adhesive; folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels the at least second time until the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive; and subsequent to the first adhesive contacting the second adhesive, applying compressive mechanical pressure by way of a mechanical embosser to securely seal the container. In other implementations, the method further comprises forming a first fold line in the first panel and a first fold line in the second panel, wherein the first fold line formed in the first panel is horizontally aligned with the first fold line formed in the second panel; and forming a second fold line in the second panel at a predetermined distance below the first fold line formed in the second panel. In still other implementations, the method further comprises folding the closeable upper portion the first time about the first fold lines of the first and second panels; and folding the closeable upper portion the at least second time about the second fold line. In some implementations, the first adhesive is deposited above the first fold line formed in the first panel; and the second adhesive is deposited below the second fold line formed in the second panel. In still other implementations, the method further comprises forming a first slot in the first panel of the container; and forming a second slot in the second panel of the container that opposes the first slot, wherein the first and second slots are configured as a handle when the container is sealed in the tamper-resistant manner. In various implementations, the first and second adhesives are cold seal adhesives, permanent pressure-sensitive adhesives, cohesives, remoistenable adhesives, repositionable adhesives, or combinations thereof. In some implementations, the container is a paper or plastic bag.

Still another embodiment provides a method for making a tamper-resistant container, comprising depositing a first adhesive on a container, wherein the container includes a closed lower portion, a middle portion adapted for storing contents, and a closeable upper portion, wherein the first adhesive is deposited at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a first panel of the container; depositing a second adhesive at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a second panel of the container, wherein the first panel is opposite the second panel; folding the closeable upper portion a first time; and subsequent to folding the closeable upper portion the first time, folding the closeable upper portion at least a second time until the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive to securely seal the container in a tamper-resistant manner, wherein separating the first and second adhesives damages the container and provides evidence of tampering.

In some non-limiting implementations, then method further comprises subsequent to the first adhesive contacting the second adhesive, applying hand pressure to securely seal the container, or applying compressive mechanical pressure by way of a mechanical embosser to securely seal the container. In some implementations, the method further comprises prior to folding the closeable upper portion the first time, joining together an upper area of the first panel and an upper area of the second panel such that the closeable upper portion of the container is closed. In some implementations, the method further comprises forming a first fold line in the first panel and a first fold line in the second panel, wherein the first fold line formed in the first panel is horizontally aligned with the first fold line formed in the second panel; and forming a second fold line in the second panel at a predetermined distance below the first fold line formed in the second panel. In some implementations, the method further comprises folding the closeable upper portion the first time about the first fold lines of the first and second panels; and folding the closeable upper portion the at least second time about the second fold line. In various implementations, the first adhesive is deposited above the first fold line formed in the first panel; and the second adhesive is deposited below the second fold line formed in the second panel. In some implementations, the method further comprises forming a first slot in the first panel of the container; and forming a second slot in the second panel of the container that opposes the first slot, wherein the first and second slots are configured as a handle when the container is sealed in the tamper-resistant manner. In various implementations, the first and second adhesives are cold seal adhesives, permanent pressure-sensitive adhesives, cohesives, remoistenable adhesives, repositionable adhesives, or combinations thereof. In some implementations, the container is a paper or plastic bag.

Still another embodiment provides a method for making a tamper-resistant container, comprising depositing a first adhesive on a container, wherein the container includes a closed lower portion, a middle portion adapted for storing contents, and a closeable upper portion, wherein the first adhesive is deposited at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a first panel of the container, and wherein the container is a paper or plastic bag; depositing a second adhesive at a predetermined location on an exterior surface of a second panel of the container, wherein the first panel is opposite the second panel; joining together an upper area of the first panel and an upper area of the second panel such that the closeable upper portion of the container is closed; folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels a first time such that the first adhesive is adjacent to the second adhesive; and folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels at least a second time until the first adhesive contacts the second adhesive to securely seal the container in a tamper-resistant manner, wherein separating the first and second adhesives damages the container and provides evidence of tampering.

In some implementations, the method further comprises forming a first fold line in the first panel and a first fold line in the second panel, wherein the first fold line formed in the first panel is horizontally aligned with the first fold line formed in the second panel; forming a second fold line in the second panel at a predetermined distance below the first fold line formed in the second panel; folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels the first time about the first fold lines of the first and second panels; and folding the joined upper areas of the first and second panels the at least second time about the second fold line.

Example implementations are now described with reference to the Figures. Reference numerals are used throughout the detailed description to refer to the various elements and structures. Although the following detailed description contains many specifics for the purposes of illustration, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and alterations to the following details are within the scope of the disclosed technology. Accordingly, the following implementations are set forth without any loss of generality to, and without imposing limitations upon, the claimed subject matter.

The examples discussed herein are examples only and are provided to assist in the explanation of the apparatuses, devices, systems, and methods described herein. None of the features or components shown in the drawings or discussed below should be taken as required for any specific implementation of any of these the apparatuses, devices, systems or methods unless specifically designated as such. For ease of reading and clarity, certain components, modules, or methods may be described solely in connection with a specific Figure. Any failure to specifically describe a combination or sub-combination of components should not be understood as an indication that any combination or sub-combination is not possible. Also, for any methods described, regardless of whether the method is described in conjunction with a flow diagram, it should be understood that unless otherwise specified or required by context, any explicit or implicit ordering of steps performed in the execution of a method does not imply that those steps must be performed in the order presented but instead may be performed in a different order or in parallel.

The disclosed systems, devices, and methods are used to seal containers in a manner that provides visual evidence of tampering. One general embodiment of the disclosed technology includes a paper bag, portions of which include one or more adhesives deposited thereon, that is sealable by applying pressure to the adhesive after the portions of the bag that include the adhesive are brought together. The paper bag can be folded one or a plurality of times when sealing the bag in a tamper-resistant manner. Any attempt to unseal or otherwise open the bag will tear the material of the bag, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering with the container. Some embodiments of the disclosed technology includes containers that are sealed using either labels or receipts that include one or more types of adhesive deposited on one side thereof. These labels or receipts are applied using one of the disclosed methods. Any attempt to remove the labels or receipts will significantly damage or completely destroy the labels and receipts, thereby providing visual proof of tampering with the container. The containers that may be used with the disclosed systems and methods include paper and plastic bags, paper and plastic foldable drink holders, and many other types of containers that are used to store and transport food and other items. In general, the disclosed labels and receipts are used in an example process that includes the following steps: (1) an item is ordered; (2) a label or receipt having the materials and adhesive characteristics described herein is generated at the point of purchase; (3) the label or receipt is temporarily stuck to the exterior of the bag (in certain implementations); (4) the bag is filled and the contents are verified using information appearing on the label or receipt; (5) the bag is closed using one of the disclosed methods; (6) the label or receipt is used to further close and seal the bag; and (7) either hand pressure or a “force multiplying” compression device such as an embosser is used to close or “lock” the receipt or label in a manner that applies consistent and non-variable pressure to the adhesive on the label or receipt. Use of the embosser or similar compression device with the disclosed containers and receipts provides consistent pressure at all times and increases bond strength between the container, the receipt or label, or both the container and the receipt or label. Following compression, the fibers of the paper material of the disclosed labels and receipts will tear in a visible manner if an attempt is made to remove the “locked” label or receipt.

With reference to, an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system includes a container such as, for example, a paper bag of the type used to store and transport fast food items and the like. Bagincludes closed bottom portionand closeable top portion. Closeable top portionincludes flap of materialthat may be folded over onto one side of the bag to close the top portion. Strip of adhesiveis deposited on an inner surface of flapand strip of adhesiveis deposited on a portion of the bag onto which the flap is folded. In one implementation, the adhesive is a self-seal cohesive material that forms a bond between flapand the portion of bagonto which flapis folded using normal or hand pressure. Once this bond is formed, the top portion of the bag cannot be reopened without damaging the paper of the bag itself. Therefore, disrupting this bond provides visual evidence of tampering with the bag or the contents thereof. Examples of suitable self-seal cohesive materials include rubber latex adhesives having no residual tack. In another implementation, the adhesive is a pressure-seal cohesive material that forms a bond between flapand the portion of the bag onto which flapis folded using increased or enhanced force such as the type of force provided by an embossing tool () or similar device. Once this bond is formed, the top portion of the bag cannot be reopened without damaging the paper of the bag itself. Therefore, disrupting this bond provides visual evidence of tampering with the bag or the contents thereof. Examples of suitable pressure-seal cohesive materials include rubber latex adhesives that are not shear sensitive and non-rubber latex (e.g. acrylic and vinyl acetate) adhesives.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system, wherein strips of a predetermined type of adhesive have been deposited on both an upper flap portion () of a paper bag () and a top portion of the bag that is configured to receive the upper flap portion () thereon.depicts bagin an open configuration with the adhesive portions being shown in their respective positions;depicts front and back portions of bagbeing brought together;depicts upper flapbeing folded down onto the adhesive-bearing top portion of bagto close the bag; anddepicts a compression device () being used to apply compressive pressure to the adhesive-bearing portions of bag.

depicts example compression device, which in this implementation is a commercially available embosser; anddepicts example pattern or logothat is created on the sealed portion of a bag by the embosser when the embosser is used to seal the bag. The embosser applies greater, more consistent, and more uniform pressure to the adhesive labels and receipts, thereby creating an effective and reliable closure. The embosser may be configured to create various embossed patterns that may include warnings such as “do not tamper” or “tamper proof label”. The patterns created by the embosser may include corporate logos, advertisements, or other graphics or subject matter.

With reference to, a second embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system includes a container such as, for example, a paper bag of the type used to store and transport fast food items and the like. Bagincludes closed bottom portionand closeable top portion. Strips of adhesive,,,are deposited on the inside surfaces of the bag near closeable top portion. Bagis sealed by pushing the sides of the bag outward (see) such that the strips of adhesive contact one another and form a bond along the top portion of the bag. In one implementation, the adhesive is a self-seal cohesive material that forms a bond between the adhesive strips using normal or hand pressure. Once this bond is formed, the top portion of the bag cannot be reopened without damaging the paper of the bag itself. Therefore, disrupting this bond provides visual evidence of tampering. Examples of suitable self-seal cohesive materials include rubber latex adhesives having no residual tack. In another implementation, the adhesive is a pressure-seal cohesive material that forms a bond between the adhesive strips using increased or enhanced force such as the type of force provided by an embossing tool or similar device. Once this bond is formed, the top portion of the bag cannot be reopened without damaging the paper of the bag itself. Therefore, disrupting this bond provides visual evidence of tampering with the bag or the contents thereof. Examples of suitable pressure-seal cohesive materials include rubber latex adhesives that are not shear sensitive and non-rubber latex (e.g. acrylic and vinyl acetate) adhesives.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein strips of a predetermined type of adhesive (,,,) have been deposited on various inner surfaces of a paper bag () near a closeable top portion thereof ().depicts the locations within top portionwhere adhesive has been deposited;depicts the side portions of bagbeing pushed outward;depicts the side portions of the bag being further extended outward;depicts the top edges of bagbeing brought together to allow the strips of adhesive contact one another;depicts bagin a closed configuration; anddepicts an embosser () being used to apply compressive pressure to the adhesive-bearing portions of bagto seal the bag.

With reference to, embodiments of the disclosed container sealing system include a label (e.g., linerless, regular paper, thermal paper, etc.) having a front side and a back side wherein (i) a self-seal cohesive material is deposited in strips along the length of the back side of the label; or (ii) a pressure-seal cohesive material deposited in strips along the length of the back side of the label. The strips of adhesive are typically oriented parallel to one another and perpendicular to the length of the label material. This label, the front side of which is configured to include information about the items purchased in a particular transaction, may be printed at the point of sale for food and other items and may then be used to seal bags or other containers in a tamper-resistant manner.depicts labelhaving a front side and a back side, wherein a self-seal cohesive material is deposited in stripsalong the length of the back side of labelor a pressure-seal cohesive material is deposited in stripsalong the length of the back side of label.

In another example embodiment (see), the container is paper bagthat includes slotformed through the top, closeable portionof the bag. The top of bagis folded over onto itself as shown in the Figures, and labelis inserted through slotsuch that the adhesive deposited on back side of the label contacts itself (i.e., two portions of the back side of the label contact each other) and seals bag. When hand pressure is applied to the implementation of labelthat includes the self-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of the label that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of the label causes the fiber of labelto tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing toolor similar device is used to apply force to the implementation of labelthat includes the pressure-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of the label that are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of the label causes the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as “fold and seal” wherein label(see) is used to seal paper bagin a tamper-resistant manner.depicts paper baghaving foldable upper portion, wherein slothas been formed in and through the material of bagjust below foldable upper portion;depicts labelinserted through slotsuch that the adhesive deposited on back side of labelcontacts itself and seals the bag; anddepicts embosserbeing used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of labelthat has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.

In another example embodiment (see), apertureis formed in container or bagnear closeable portion, and labelis looped over closeable portionsuch that the adhesive deposited on the rear side of labelcontacts itself through aperture, thereby sealing bag.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as “loop and seal” wherein label(see) is used to seal paper bagin a tamper-resistant manner.depicts paper bag, having a foldable upper portion, wherein circular aperturehas been formed in and through the material of bagjust below foldable upper portion;depicts the label“looped” over aperturesuch that the adhesive deposited on back side of labelcontacts itself and seals bag; anddepicts embosserbeing used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of labelthat has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.

In another example embodiment (see), the label component of the system is modified to act both as a device to seal the bag and as a handle to carry the bag.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein labelseals the bag in a tamper-resistant manner and provides a carrying handle bag.depicts a label () having two square apertures,formed at opposite ends of the label and two strips of a predetermined type of adhesive deposited on either side of each aperture four a total of four parallel strips,,,;depicts paper baghaving foldable upper portionand slotformed in and through the material of the bag just below foldable upper portion;depicts label/handlebeing inserted though slotwith the adhesive side facing upward;depicts label/handlebeing folded onto itself to bring the strips of adhesive into contact with one another;depicts the application of hand pressure to label/handle;depicts embosserbeing used to apply compressive pressure to the label/handle; anddepicts bagbeing carried using label/handlea carrying handle. In various embodiments and implementations, handleincludes a thick paper (e.g., from Convertible Solutions: https://convertiblesolutions.com/) or a sheet of biodegradable film (e.g., from https://www.orangebio.com/).

In another example embodiment (see), the container is a plastic bag () that includes two integrated handles formed from the material of the bag at an open end thereof. The handles are tied together to form a knot () and two loops that also act as handles (,). Labelis looped through the two looped handles (,) such that the adhesive deposited on back side of the label contacts itself and seals the bag by making it impossible to untie the knot without destroying label. When hand pressure is applied to the implementation that includes the self-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of labelthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of labelcauses the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing toolor similar device is used to apply force to the implementation that includes the pressure-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of labelthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of labelcauses the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. In an alternate variation of this implementation, the plastic bag () is a clear material through which the contents of the bag are visible. The information appearing on the label can be used to verify the contents of the bag after baghas been sealed. The plastic bags used in this implementation may be regular or common plastic bags, biodegradable plastic bags, or compostable plastic bags.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein containeris a plastic bag that includes two integrated handles formed from the material of the bag at the open end thereof.depicts the handles being tied together to form knotand two loops that also act as handles (,);depicts label(see) being inserted through loopsand;depicts the adhesive-bearing side of labelbeing adhered to itself;depicts bagin a closed configuration with labelsealing the bag in a tamper-resistant manner; anddepicts embosserbeing used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of labelthat has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.

Another example embodiment (see), includes a detachable or separable handle component configured to securely hold or enclose a liquid-holding container and provide a carrying handle. Handle componentfurther includes foldable bodyhaving a centrally placed apertureconfigured to receive cup, and first and second slots (,) formed in opposing ends of body, wherein when bodyis folded, slotsandcooperate with one another to form carrying handle. Labelis looped through slotsandsuch that the adhesive deposited on back side of labelcontacts itself (i.e., two portions of the back side of the label contact each other) and seals carrying handlein a closed configuration. When hand pressure is applied to the implementation that includes the self-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of labelthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of labelcauses the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing toolor similar device is used to apply force to the implementation that includes the pressure-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of labelthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of labelcauses the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system, wherein the container is a piece of material configured as a drink carrier.depicts drink carrierin an open configuration showing the location of adhesive-bearing handle portions (,) and centrally placed aperturefor receiving cup;depicts drink carrierin a closed position with cupplaced within aperture; anddepicts labelinserted through handle portionsandand adhered to itself to seal drink carrierin a tamper-resistant manner.

With reference to, embodiments of the disclosed container sealing system include receipt(e.g., linerless, regular paper, thermal paper, etc.) having a front side and a back side, wherein a broken strip of a first type of adhesivehas been deposited along the length of the receipt on a middle portion of the back side thereof, and wherein two broken strips of a second type of adhesive (,) have been deposited along the length of the receipt on the back side thereof on either side of the broken strip of the first type of adhesive. The first type of adhesive is either a repositionable adhesive or a permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive; and the second type of adhesive is either a self-seal cohesive material or a pressure-seal cohesive material. This receipt, the front side of which is configured to include information about a particular transaction, may be printed at the point of sale for food and other items. Information about the contents of a bag or container may be printed on the receipt and the receipt may be temporarily attached to the front of a bag or container while the bag or container is being filled. Once the contents of the bag or container have been verified using the information printed on the receipt, the receipt may be used to seal the bag or containers in a tamper-resistant manner.depicts receipthaving a front side and a back side, wherein a broken strip of a first type of adhesivehas been deposited along the length of receipton a middle portion of the back side thereof; wherein two broken strips of a second type of adhesive (,) have been deposited along the length of receipton the back side thereof on either side of the broken strip of the first type of adhesive (); and wherein the first type of adhesive is either a repositionable adhesive or a permanent pressure-sensitive adhesive and the second type of adhesive is either a self-seal cohesive material or a pressure-seal cohesive material. Some implementations of this receipt are referred to as a “dual-functionality sticky thermal receipt”.

In another example embodiment (see), the container is paper bagthat includes slotformed through the top, closeable portion of the bag (). The top of the bag is folded over onto itself as shown in the Figures, and receiptis inserted through the slot such that the adhesive deposited on back side of receiptcontacts itself (i.e., two portions of the back side of the receipt contact each other) and seals bag. When hand pressure is applied to the implementation that includes the self-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of receiptthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of receiptcauses the fiber of the receipt to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing toolor similar device is used to apply force to the implementation that includes the pressure-seal cohesive material, a bond is formed between the two portions of receiptthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of receiptcauses the fiber of the receipt to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as “fold and seal” wherein receiptis used to seal a paper bag in a tamper-resistant manner.depicts paper baghaving foldable upper portion, wherein slothas been formed in and through the material of the bag just below foldable upper portion, and wherein receiptis temporarily adhered to the front of the bag using the first type of adhesive;depicts receiptinserted through slotsuch that the second type of adhesive deposited on back side of receiptcontacts itself and seals bag; anddepicts embosserbeing used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of receiptthat has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.

In another example embodiment (see), apertureis formed in container or bagnear the closeable end thereof, and receiptis “looped’ over the top portion of bagsuch that the adhesive deposited on the rear side of receiptcontacts itself through aperturethereby sealing bag.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system referred to as “loop and seal” wherein receiptis used to seal a paper bag () in a tamper-resistant manner.depicts paper baghaving foldable upper portion, wherein circular aperturehas been formed in and through the material of bagjust below foldable upper portion;depicts receiptlooped over aperturesuch that the adhesive deposited on back side of the receipt contacts itself and seals the bag; anddepicts embosserbeing used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of receiptthat has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.

In another example embodiment (see), the container is plastic bagthat includes two integrated handles formed from the material of the bag at the open end thereof. The handles are tied together to form knotand two loops that act as handles (,). Receiptis looped through the two looped handles (,) such that the adhesive deposited on back side of receiptcontacts itself and seals bagby making it impossible to untie the knot without destroying receipt.depict an example embodiment of the disclosed container sealing system wherein the container is the described plastic bag.depicts receipt(see) temporarily adhered to the front of bagusing the first type of adhesive;depicts the handles of the bag being tied together to form knotand two loops (,) that also act as handles and receiptinserted through the loops and adhered to itself to seal the bag; anddepicts embosserbeing used to apply compressive pressure to the portion of receiptthat has been adhered to itself for the purpose of creating a permanent, tamper-resistant seal.

Now referring to, tamper-resistant containeris a paper bag having closed bottom portion, middle portionconfigured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion. Containerfurther comprises front panel, rear panel, first side panel, and second side panel. First strip of adhesiveis deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surfaceof front panel. First strip of adhesiveis deposited on upper areaof front panel. Fold lineis formed in upper areaof front panelat a predetermined location below strip of adhesive. Second strip of adhesiveis deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surfaceof rear panel. Second strip of adhesiveis deposited on upper areaof rear panel. First fold lineis formed in upper areaof rear panelat a predetermined location that is horizontally aligned with fold lineformed in front panel. Second fold lineis formed in upper areaof rear panelat a predetermined location below first fold linebut above strip of adhesive. Strips of adhesive,and fold lines,,are each contained in closeable top portionof container.

Now referring to, to form and/or seal tamper-resistant container, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) joining together upper areas,of front and rear panels,, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion; (ii) folding a section of top portiona first time about fold lines,until first strip of adhesiveis adjacent to second strip of adhesive; (iii) folding the section of top portionat least a second time about second fold lineuntil first strip of adhesivecontacts second strip of adhesive; and (iv) applying pressure to seal containerin a tamper-resistant manner such that top portioncannot be re-opened without damaging the material (e.g. paper, plastic, cardboard, cardstock, etc.) of containeritself. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds can be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device () is used to apply compressive pressure to seal containerin a tamper-resistant manner.

Now referring to, tamper-resistant containeris a paper bag having closed bottom portion, middle portionconfigured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion. Containerfurther comprises front panelin which first slotis formed, rear panelin which second slotis formed, first side panel, and second side panel. First slotis opposite second slot. When containeris fully closed, first and second slots,form a handle that allows a user to carry container. First strip of adhesiveis deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surfaceof front panel. First strip of adhesiveis deposited on upper areaof front panel. Fold lineis formed in upper areaof front panelat a predetermined location below strip of adhesive. Second strip of adhesiveis deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surfaceof rear panel. Second strip of adhesiveis deposited on upper areaof rear panel. First fold lineis formed in upper areaof rear panelat a predetermined location that is horizontally aligned with fold lineformed in front panel. Second fold lineis formed in upper areaof rear panelat a predetermined location below first fold linebut above strip of adhesive. Strips of adhesive,and fold lines,,are each contained in closeable top portionof container.

Now referring to, to form and/or seal tamper-resistant container, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) forming first slotin front panel, and forming second slotin rear panel; (ii) joining together upper areas,of front and rear panels,, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion; (iii) folding a section of top portiona first time about fold lines,until first strip of adhesiveis adjacent to second strip of adhesive; (iv) folding the section of top portionat least a second time about second fold lineuntil first strip of adhesivecontacts second strip of adhesive; and (v) applying pressure to seal containerin a tamper-resistant manner such that top portioncannot be re-opened without damaging the material (e.g. paper, plastic, cardboard, cardstock, etc.) of containeritself. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds can be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device () is used to apply compressive pressure to seal containerin a tamper-resistant manner.

Now referring to, tamper-resistant containerincludes similar components, functions similarly, and is closeable similar to that of tamper-resistant container, the difference being that tamper-resistant containerincludes first handle memberand second handle memberthat are configured to allow for carrying of container. Tamper-resistant containeris a paper bag having closed bottom portion, middle portionconfigured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion. Containerfurther comprises front panel, rear panel, first side panel, and second side panel. First handle memberis coupled to front panel, and second handle memberis coupled to rear panel. First strip of adhesiveis deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surfaceof front panel. First strip of adhesiveis deposited on upper areaof front panel. Fold lineis formed in upper areaof front panelat a predetermined location below strip of adhesive. Second strip of adhesiveis deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surfaceof rear panel. Second strip of adhesiveis deposited on upper areaof rear panel. First fold lineis formed in upper areaof rear panelat a predetermined location that is horizontally aligned with fold lineformed in front panel. Second fold lineis formed in upper areaof rear panelat a predetermined location below first fold linebut above strip of adhesive. Strips of adhesive,and fold lines,,are each contained in closeable top portionof container.

Still referring to, to form and/or seal tamper-resistant container, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) joining together upper areas,of front and rear panels,, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion; (ii) folding a section of top portiona first time about fold lines,until first strip of adhesiveis adjacent to second strip of adhesive; (iii) folding the section of top portionat least a second time about second fold lineuntil first strip of adhesivecontacts second strip of adhesive; and (iv) applying pressure to seal containerin a tamper-resistant manner such that top portioncannot be re-opened without damaging the material (e.g. paper, plastic, cardboard, cardstock, etc.) of containeritself. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds can be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device () is used to apply compressive pressure to seal containerin a tamper-resistant manner.

With reference to, tamper-resistant containeris a paper bag having closed bottom portion, middle portionconfigured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion. Containerfurther comprises front panelin which first slotis formed, rear panelin which second slotis formed, first side panel, and second side panel. First slotis opposite second slot. First handle memberis coupled to front panel, and second handle memberis coupled to rear panel. In some non-limiting embodiments, the first and second handle membersextend through first and second slots,, respectively. First strip of adhesiveis deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surfaceof front panel. First strip of adhesiveis deposited on upper areaof front panel. Fold lineis formed in upper areaof front panelat a predetermined location below strip of adhesive. Second strip of adhesiveis deposited at a predetermined location on exterior surfaceof rear panel. Second strip of adhesiveis deposited on upper areaof rear panel. First fold lineis formed in upper areaof rear panelat a predetermined location that is horizontally aligned with fold lineformed in front panel. Second fold lineis formed in upper areaof rear panelat a predetermined location below first fold linebut above strip of adhesive. Strips of adhesive,and fold lines,,are each contained in closeable top portionof container.

Still referring to, receipt or labelis looped through first and second slots,such that adhesivedeposited on receipt or labelcontacts itself and further seals containerby making it impossible to re-open containerwithout destroying label, container, or both. When hand pressure is applied, a bond is formed between the two portions of labelthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of labelcauses the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing toolor similar device is used to apply force, a bond is formed between the two portions of labelthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of labelcauses the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. In some non-limiting implementations, receipt or labelis similar to receipt/labeldisclosed herein. In some non-limiting implementations, receipt or labelis similar to receipt/labeldisclosed herein.

Still referring to, to form and/or seal tamper-resistant container, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) forming first slotin front panel, and forming second slotin rear panel; (ii) joining together upper areas,of front and rear panels,, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion; (iii) folding a section of top portiona first time about fold lines,until first strip of adhesiveis adjacent to second strip of adhesive; (iv) folding the section of top portionat least a second time about second fold lineuntil first strip of adhesivecontacts second strip of adhesive; (v) applying pressure to seal container; (vi) looping receipt/labelthrough first and second slots,such that adhesiveis facing upwards; (vii) joining adhesiveto itself, and applying pressure to receipt/labelto further seal containerin a tamper-resistant manner such that top portioncannot be re-opened without damaging container, receipt/label, or both. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds and pressure to receipt/labelcan be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device () is used to apply compressive pressure to containerand/or label.

Now referring to, containeris a paper bag having closed bottom portion, middle portionconfigured to accommodate various items or contents (e.g. food, etc.) for storage, and closeable top portion. Containerfurther comprises front panelin which first slotis formed, rear panelin which second slotis formed, first side panel, and second side panel. First slotis opposite second slot. When containeris fully closed, first and second slots,form a handle that allows a user to carry container. First fold lineand second fold lineare formed in upper areaof front panel. First fold lineand second fold lineare formed in upper areaof rear panel. First fold lineis horizontally aligned with first fold line, and second fold lineis horizontally aligned with first fold line.

Now referring to, receipt or labelis looped through first and second slots,such that adhesivedeposited on receipt or labelcontacts itself and further seals containerby making it impossible to re-open containerwithout destroying label, container, or both. When hand pressure is applied, a bond is formed between the two portions of labelthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of labelcauses the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. When embossing toolor similar device is used to apply force, a bond is formed between the two portions of labelthat are in contact with one another. Attempting to separate the joined portions of labelcauses the fiber of the label to tear, thereby providing visual evidence of tampering. In some non-limiting implementations, receipt or labelis similar to receipt/labeldisclosed herein. In some non-limiting implementations, receipt or labelis similar to receipt/labeldisclosed herein.

Still referring to, to form and/or seal container, the following non-limiting steps are performed: (i) forming first slotin front panel, and forming second slotin rear panel; (ii) joining together upper areas,of front and rear panels,, respectively, to close (but still unsealed) top portion; (iii) folding a section of top portiona first time about first fold lines,; (iv) folding the section of top portionat least a second time about second fold lines,; (v) looping receipt/labelthrough first and second slots,such that adhesiveis facing upwards; and (vi) joining adhesiveto itself, and applying pressure to receipt/labelto seal containerin a tamper-resistant manner such that top portioncannot be re-opened without damaging container, receipt/label, or both. In some non-limiting embodiments, first and second folds and pressure to receipt/labelcan be performed using normal or hand pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, embosser or similar compression device () is used to apply compressive pressure to containerand/or label.

In various embodiments and implementations, the strips of adhesive,,,,,,,can include any of the adhesive materials disclosed herein. In one non-limiting implementation, adhesives,,,,,,,can be predetermined types of cold seal adhesives. In some additional or alternative implementations, adhesive,,,,,,,may be permanent a pressure-sensitive adhesives (e.g., acrylic-based or rubber-based), cohesives (e.g., natural rubber or synthetic rubber), remoistenable adhesives (e.g., polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, or dextrin), or repositionable adhesives (e.g., acrylic microspheres or cross-linked acrylic).

In various embodiments and implementations, the label is either coated, matte, or offset paper. In various embodiments and implementations, the receipt is regular paper or thermal paper. Suitable self-seal cohesive and pressure-seal cohesive materials may be obtained from A1 Chemicals (https://a1chemicalsllc.com/), including A1Bond 15-701, which is a self-seal natural rubber latex adhesive; A1Prime 11-446, which is a pressure seal adhesive natural rubber latex; and A1Bond 15-321, which is a pressure seal, non-rubber latex pressure seal adhesive that includes Vinnapas 920 (99%) as a primary ingredient. A suitable repositionable adhesive is CraigStik 3991B1 (acylic microsphere at an average of 25 to 35 micron) from H.B. Fuller: https://www.hbfuller.com/en, which requires a release coat (e.g., Omnova: https://www.omnova.com/) and a primer such as Craigcoat 3991PMR (H.B. Fuller: https://www.hbfuller.com/en). Natural rubbers with acrylic are suitable for some implementations.

The following patent applications are relevant to the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein and are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety for all purposes: U.S. application Ser. Nos. 17/073,969; 17/199,054; 17/495,918; 17/825,115; 17/825,341; 17/941,138; 17/947,086; 17/947,089; and 18/142,239.