A SINGLE-DOSE PACKAGE FOR LIQUID, SEMI-LIQUID, GRANULAR OR POWDER PRODUCTS

Technical field

This invention relates to a single-dose package for liquid or semi-liquid products, a method for making a single-dose package and a packaging machine for making a single-dose package.

Background art

The single-dose packages are commonly known as“bags” and are formed by at least one walls delimiting at least partly an internal space, in which the dose of product is contained. They may be formed by two sheets of flexible or semi-rigid material juxtaposed and sealed at the margins, to delimit the internal space, designed to contain the dose of product. The product may be liquid, semi-liquid, granular or powder. The product may belong to a wide range of categories, which comprise foodstuffs (liquid or semi-liquid, such as, for example, oil, mayonnaise, ketchup, vinegar, cacao, honey, tomato concentrate and lemon juice, and granular, such as, for example, salt, pepper and sugar), personal hygiene products (such as, for example, shampoo, shower gel, disinfectant), cosmetics (such as, for example, creams and perfumes), medicines and food supplements.

The single-dose packages are designed to be opened manually by a user and have facilitated opening systems. For example, patent document EP2628691 provides a package having a first sheet of semi-rigid material and a second sheet of flexible material, wherein the first sheet is notched to form a main pre-weakened tear line and weakened to form two pre weakened areas, designed to act as a guide for a facilitated opening. The opening is actuated starting from one or more additional lateral notches and propagates along the areas of weakness and the main pre-weakened line. Other examples of single-dose packages are described in the following patent documents: US5997177A, WO01/17875A1 , EP2371737A1 ,

JP2017132517A.

In the prior art solutions there is the problem of controlling the escape of the product during the opening of the package, to avoid splashing in undesired directions. A further problem of the prior art solutions is linked to the need to use both hands to open the package, which makes the operation not very easy.

Disclosure of the invention

The aim of this invention is to provide a single-dose package for liquid or semi-liquid products, a method for packaging and a packaging machine which overcome the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art.

The package according to the invention a single-dose package for liquid, semi-liquid, granular or powder products.

The packaging comprises an internal space. The internal space is designed to contain a dose of product. The dose of product is contained in the internal space.

The package comprises a wall. The wall in an embodiment is flexible. The wall in another embodiment is semi-rigid.

The wall delimits at least a part of the internal space. The wall in an embodiment delimits entirely the internal space. The wall in an embodiment delimits a part of the internal space.

The wall in an embodiment has a scored zone.

The package in an embodiment comprises a membrane. The membrane in an embodiment can be torn by means of a pressure of the product on the membrane. The pressure of the product on the membrane can be imparted by means of a compression of the package by a user.

In an embodiment, the membrane is configured for tearing in response to a pressure applied by the product on the membrane. For example, the membrane has a thickness such that it can tear (that is, it is sufficiently thin) under the effect of the pressure exerted by the product on the membrane. In an embodiment, the membrane is configured for tearing in response to a pressure imparted by a person who squeezes (squashes) the package between the fingers (of a single hand).

The membrane is positioned in the internal space.

The membrane is connected to the wall for isolating the dose of product from the scored zone. The wall has an inside surface, facing towards the internal space. The membrane is connected to the inside surface of the wall to isolate the dose of product from the scored zone. In this way, when the user imparts a pressure on the package, the membrane, which can be torn, is torn, and the dose of product may escape through the torn membrane and the scored zone of the wall.

In an embodiment, the membrane is connected to the wall in a sealing zone. In an embodiment, (at least a part of) the sealing zone is superposed on at least a part of the scored zone. In an embodiment, (at least a part of) the sealing zone is in the immediate vicinity of at least a part of the scored zone. In an embodiment, (at least a part of) the sealing zone surrounds at least a part of the scored zone.

In an embodiment, the sealing zone is positioned at the scored zone. Preferably, the sealing zone is positioned at a part of the scored zone in which the wall is particularly weakened, that is, the part in which the probability that there is a tear and consequent escape of product is at its maximum.

In this way, the pressure imparted by the user on the internal space tends to concentrate in the sealing point, from which extends a tear of the membrane, and a controlled escape of the dose of product through the membrane torn and the scored zone of the wall.

In an embodiment, the membrane is configured for tearing due to the pressure applied by the product on the sealing membrane, in the sealing zone.

In an embodiment, the membrane is configured for tearing in response to a pressure imparted by a person who squeezes (that is, squashes) the package with a hand.

In an embodiment, the sealing zone is entirely superposed on at least one part of the scored zone, so that the sealing zone is surrounded by a portion of the scored zone.

In an embodiment, the scored zone is defined by a plurality of cuts (or scores or weaknesses) in the wall. In an embodiment, the cuts cross (at least) a point of intersection. For example, the scored zone may be defined by two cuts arranged in the form of an“X”, or four cuts forming a cross, or five cuts arranged in the form of an asterisk, defining a star with five points.

In an embodiment, the scored zone has the shape of a star with three points. In an embodiment, the scored zone has the shape of a star with four points. In an embodiment, the scored zone has the shape of a star with six points. In an embodiment, the scored zone has the shape of a star with seven points. In an embodiment, the scored zone has the shape of a star with eight points. In an embodiment, the scored zone has the shape of a star with nine points. In an embodiment, the scored zone is a segment. In an embodiment, the scored zone is a broken line. Preferably, the scored zone has the shape of a star with four (or five, or more) points.

In an embodiment, the point of intersection (of the scores) is superposed on at least a part of the sealing zone.

In an embodiment, the scored zone is defined by a score (or a plurality of scores) in the top sheet, defining the wall.

In an embodiment, the ends of the cuts opposite the point of intersection of the cuts define a polygon, to which can be circumscribed a circle, the diameter of which is defined as the extension of the scored zone.

In an embodiment, the sealing zone is shaped like a circle having a diameter which is less than the extension of the scored zone. Preferably, the sealing zone is shaped like a point (that is to say, a circle of reduced size) at the intersection point of the cuts defining the scored zone. In other embodiments, the sealing zone has an irregular shape (for example, it may be a polygon), having a smaller surface than the surface of the polygon defined by the cuts of the scored zone.

In an embodiment, the package comprises a bottom sheet. In an embodiment, the bottom sheet is made of flexible material. In an embodiment, the bottom sheet is made of semi-rigid material. In an embodiment, the bottom sheet is made of sealable material. In an embodiment, the bottom sheet is made of impermeable material, that is to say, it does not allow the escape of the dose of product. In an embodiment, the top sheet has oxygen barrier properties. In an embodiment, the bottom sheet comprises one or more layers. In an embodiment, the one or more layers of the bottom sheets comprise a metallic layer. The metallic layer in an embodiment contains aluminium. In an embodiment, the one or more layers of the bottom sheets comprise a polyester layer. In an embodiment, the one or more layers of the bottom sheets comprise a polyethylene layer.

In an embodiment, the package comprises a top sheet. In an embodiment, the top sheet is made of flexible material. In an embodiment, the top sheet is made of semi-rigid material. In an embodiment, the top sheet is made of sealable material. In an embodiment, the top sheet is made of impermeable material, that is to say, it does not allow the escape of the dose of product. In an embodiment, the bottom sheet has oxygen barrier properties. In an embodiment, the top sheet comprises one or more layers. In an embodiment, the one or more layers of the top sheets comprise a metallic layer. The metallic layer in an embodiment contains aluminium. In an embodiment, the one or more layers of the top sheets comprise a polyester layer. In an embodiment, the one or more layers of the top sheets comprise a polyethylene layer.

In an embodiment, the bottom sheet and the top sheet are made of the same material. In an embodiment, the top sheet and the bottom sheet are made of flexible material. The wall has an outer margin and a central zone, delimited on the perimeter by the outer margin.

The top sheet has an outer margin and a central zone, delimited on the perimeter by the outer margin.

The bottom sheet has an outer margin and a central zone, delimited on the perimeter by the outer margin.

The wall, in an embodiment, is constituted by the top sheet. The top sheet greater, in an embodiment, delimits a first part of the internal space. The bottom sheet, in an embodiment, delimits a second, remaining part of the internal space. The first part, together with the second part, delimit entirely the internal space. The bottom sheet in an embodiment is stably joined to the top sheet. The bottom sheet in an embodiment is sealed to the top sheet. The bottom sheet in an embodiment is glued to the top sheet.

In an embodiment, the top sheet in the respective outer margin is sealed to the bottom sheet in the respective outer margin; the internal space is enclosed between the central zone of the top sheet and the central zone of the bottom sheet and is delimited by the outer margins of the top sheet and of the bottom sheet, sealed to each other. In an embodiment, the top sheet in the respective outer margin is sealed to the bottom sheet in the respective outer margin. In an embodiment, the top sheet in the respective outer margin is glued to the bottom sheet in the respective outer margin.

In an embodiment, the wall is constituted by the bottom sheet.

In an embodiment, the wall comprises two flaps of the same folded sheet, to define the internal space. In this embodiment, the two folded flaps are sealed to each other in the respective outer margins. In an embodiment, the two flaps of the folded wall are sealed to each other in the respective outer margins. In an embodiment, the membrane is interposed between the two flaps of the folded wall and connected to (at least) a flap of the wall.

The scored zone in an embodiment extends on an portion of the top sheet. The scored zone in an embodiment extends on the central zone of the top sheet. In an embodiment, the scored zone extends on the central zone of the top sheet, at the dose of product. The scored zone in an embodiment extends on the outer margin of the top sheet. The scored zone in an embodiment extends on the central zone of the bottom sheet. The scored zone in an embodiment extends on the outer margin of the bottom sheet. The membrane in an embodiment is interposed between the bottom sheet and the top sheet. The membrane in an embodiment is sealed to the top sheet. The membrane in an embodiment is sealed to the top sheet in the outer margin of the top sheet. The membrane in an embodiment is sealed to the top sheet in the central zone of the top sheet.

In an embodiment the internal space is between the bottom sheet and the membrane. In an embodiment the internal space has two inner faces, of which one is defined by the top sheet and the membrane, the other is defined by the bottom sheet. In an embodiment the internal space has two inner faces, of which one is defined by the bottom sheet and the membrane, the other is defined by the top sheet.

In at least an embodiment, the package comprises the wall (defining the top sheet), the bottom sheet, sealed to the wall to define the internal space, and the membrane, interposed between the top sheet and the bottom sheet, inside the internal space, and connected to the top sheet. In another embodiment, the package comprises the wall, folded back on itself to define the internal space, and the membrane, interposed between two flaps of the wall folded in contact to define the internal space, and connected to the wall.

In an embodiment, the membrane is made of flexible material. In an embodiment, the membrane is made of sealable material. In an embodiment, the membrane impermeable, that is to say, it does not allow the escape of the dose of product. In an embodiment, the membrane is made of a material containing a polyamide. In an embodiment, the membrane has oxygen barrier properties; thus preventing the oxidising of the dose of product. In an embodiment, the membrane is connected to the wall in a perimeter sealing line. In an embodiment, the membrane is sealed to the top sheet along the perimeter sealing line. In an embodiment, the membrane is sealed to the bottom sheet along the perimeter sealing line.

The perimeter sealing line in an embodiment is closed and surrounds the scored zone.

The perimeter sealing line in an embodiment extends in the proximity of the outer margin of the wall. The perimeter sealing line in an embodiment extends in the proximity of the outer margin of the top sheet. The perimeter sealing line in an embodiment extends in the proximity of the outer margin of the bottom sheet.

The perimeter sealing line in an embodiment extends in the proximity of the central zone of the wall. The perimeter sealing line in an embodiment extends in the proximity of the central zone of the top sheet. The perimeter sealing line in an embodiment extends in the proximity of the central zone of the bottom sheet.

In an embodiment, the wall is multi-layer. In an embodiment, the wall contains an inside layer, facing towards the membrane. The inside layer in an embodiment is made of the same material as the membrane. This makes it possible to obtain a uniform sealing of the membrane to the wall. In an embodiment, the top sheet contains an inside layer, facing towards the membrane, made of the same material of the membrane. In an embodiment, the bottom sheet contains an inside layer, facing towards the membrane, made of the same material of the membrane.

The top sheet and the bottom sheet have good mechanical properties and allow the dose of product to be kept inside an internal space which is sealed, less than in the scored zone. In fact, in the scored zone, one or more cuts result in a facilitated opening zone of the package. The membrane, having oxygen barrier properties and being sealed to the wall (in an embodiment to the top sheet) at the scored zone, acts as an obstacle to the entrance of oxygen (which would lead to a rapid ageing of the product) through the scored zone. The sealing at the scored zone also ensures that upon the manual compression of the package by a user, an increase in the pressure which is determined in the internal space results in a breakage of the sealing of the membrane with the wall (in an embodiment of the membrane with the top sheet), that is, at the scored zone. The shape of the scored zone with 5 points has been designed to optimise the breaking of the membrane and the controlled escape of the product. Other embodiments of the solution comprise different shapes of the scored zone. Thanks to this system, the user can press the package with a single hand and induce the controlled escape of the product through the scored zone.

The invention also provides a method for making a single-dose package for liquid, semi-liquid, granular or powder products.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a wall. The wall is flexible. The wall is provided with a scored zone. The method in an embodiment comprises a step of scoring the wall to define the scored zone. The score in an embodiment comprises a cut. The cut in an embodiment is performed using a cutting tool having a shaped cutting edge (for example, a blade). The scoring in an embodiment is performed by cutting with laser rays.

The scored zone in an embodiment is defined by a plurality of cuts in the wall. The plurality of cuts in an embodiment cross at an intersection point of the cuts. The plurality of cuts in an embodiment defines a scored zone having the form of a star with five points.

In an embodiment, the ends of the cuts opposite the point of intersection of the cuts define a polygon, to which can be circumscribed a circle, the diameter of which is defined as the extension of the scored zone.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a dose of product. The product may be liquid, semi-liquid or granular.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of making an internal space. The internal space is designed to contain the dose of product. The internal space contains the dose of product. The internal space is delimited at least partly by an inside surface of the wall. The inside surface of the wall faces towards the dose of product.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a membrane. The membrane in an embodiment is made of a material containing a polyamide. The membrane in an embodiment has oxygen barrier properties. The membrane in an embodiment can be torn by means of a pressure applied by the product to the membrane. The membrane in an embodiment can be torn by means of a compression of the package, caused by the user (with one hand or two).

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of positioning the membrane in the internal space. The method in an embodiment comprises a step of positioning the membrane in the internal space, alongside the wall.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of connecting the membrane to the inside surface of the wall. The method in an embodiment comprises a step of connecting the membrane to the wall, to isolate the dose of product from the scored zone.

The membrane is connected to the wall (that is to say, to the relative inside surface) for covering the scored zone. The membrane is connected to the wall for isolating the scored zone from the dose of product. The membrane can be torn by means of a pressure of the product on the membrane (imparted, for example, by a compression of the package by a user).

The connection of the membrane to the wall in an embodiment comprises a sealing of the membrane to the wall.

The sealing in an embodiment is performed in a sealing zone. In an embodiment, the sealing is performed at the scored zone. In an embodiment, the sealing zone superposes the scored zone. In an embodiment, the sealing zone is located at the scored zone. In an embodiment, the scored zone is superposed on the sealing zone. In an embodiment, the point of intersection of the scores is superposed on at least a part of the sealing zone.

In an embodiment, the sealing is performed by means of a sealing punch. The sealing punch in an embodiment comprises a sealing profile, defining the sealing zone. The sealing profile of the sealing punch, in an embodiment, is a circular profile. The sealing profile of the sealing punch can be smooth (continuous) or notched. In an embodiment, the sealing punch has a diameter less the extension of the scored zone. In an embodiment, the sealing punch defines a sealing zone having a circular shape, the diameter of which is less than the extension of the scored zone. In an embodiment, the sealing is performed by pressing the sealing punch at the point of intersection of the cuts, in such a way that the sealing zone of the wall to the membrane is at the point of intersection of the cuts in the wall.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a top sheet. The top sheet in an embodiment is made of semi-rigid material. The top sheet in an embodiment is made of flexible material. The top sheet is impermeable. The top sheet has oxygen barrier properties. The top sheet in an embodiment has an outer margin. The top sheet in an embodiment has central zone. The top sheet in an embodiment defines the wall. The wall is constituted by the top sheet.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a bottom sheet. The bottom sheet in an embodiment is made of semi-rigid material. The bottom sheet in an embodiment is made of flexible material. The bottom sheet impermeable. The bottom sheet has oxygen barrier properties. The bottom sheet in an embodiment has an outer margin. The bottom sheet in an embodiment has central zone.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of superposing the top sheet on the bottom sheet.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of sealing of the outer margin of the top sheet to outer margin of the bottom sheet. The sealing of the outer margin of the top sheet to the outer margin of the bottom sheet in a preferred embodiment is a sealing. The sealing of the outer margin of the top sheet to the outer margin of the bottom sheet in another embodiment is a gluing.

In an embodiment the step of connecting the membrane to the wall comprises a sealing of the membrane to the top sheet, in a perimeter sealing line. The perimeter sealing line in an embodiment is a closed line, surrounding the scored zone (and therefore the sealing zone, defined by the circular punch). The perimeter line sealing in an embodiment runs along an outer margin of the wall. The perimeter sealing line in an embodiment is situated in a central zone of the wall.

The sealing in an embodiment comprises a surface melting of the membrane and of the wall. The surface melting in an embodiment is performed with a hot blade, interposed between the wall and the membrane, in contact with them. The surface melting in an embodiment is performed by means of ultrasound emissions. The surface melting in an embodiment is performed with a hot plate, interposed between the wall and the membrane, in contact with them. The surface melting surface in an embodiment is performed by irradiation and/or convection in hot air. The surface melting in an embodiment is performed by friction of the membrane on the wall. The surface melting in an embodiment is performed by friction of the wall on the membrane. The surface melting in an embodiment is performed by vibration of the membrane. The surface melting in an embodiment is performed by vibration of the wall. The surface melting in an embodiment is performed by emission of laser beams. The sealing in an embodiment comprises a melting of the membrane and of the wall. The melting is performed by chemical solvents which are able to react with the wall and with the membrane.

The sealing in an embodiment comprises a step for keeping the membrane and the wall under pressure. The step of keeping under pressure leads to a mutual penetration of the partially melted parts of membrane and wall. The step of keeping under pressure in an embodiment occurs simultaneously with a cooling of the partly melted parts.

An entrance of oxygen from an outside environment to the internal space through the scored zone is opposed by the membrane. A point is created in the sealing zone from which extends a tear of the membrane, to ensure the escape of the product in a controlled manner.

In another embodiment the step of connecting the membrane to the wall comprises a gluing of the membrane to the top sheet, around the scored zone. The gluing comprises depositing liquid glue on the membrane and on the wall and a compression of the wall against the membrane.

The invention provides a packaging machine for making a single-dose package for liquid, semi-liquid, granular or powder products.

In an embodiment the packaging machine comprises a roll. The roll in an embodiment contains a web (or film). The roll is a reservoir of the web (or film).

In an embodiment the packaging machine comprises a cutting unit. The cutting unit is configured for making a piece from the web. The cutting unit in an embodiment comprises a blade tool. The cutting unit is configured to cut the web in order to isolate a portion, constituting the piece. The piece will define a wall (or top sheet) of the package.

In an embodiment the packaging machine comprises a scoring device. The scoring device is configured to define a scored zone in the piece. The scoring device in an embodiment is a cutting tool. The cutting unit in an embodiment comprises a blade. The scoring device in an embodiment is an intermittent cutting tool. The cutting tool in an embodiment comprises an intermittent blade. The scoring device in an embodiment is a laser beam emitter. The scored zone in an embodiment is defined by one or more cuts in the wall, which cross in a point of intersection of the cuts. In an embodiment, the ends of the cuts opposite the point of intersection of the cuts define a polygon, to which can be circumscribed a circle, the diameter of which is defined as the extension of the scored zone. The scored zone in an embodiment has the shape of a star with five points. The scored zone in an embodiment has the shape of a star with four points. The scored zone in an embodiment is a segment.

In an embodiment the machine comprises a dosing device. The dosing device is configured to provide a dose of product. The dosing device in an embodiment is configured for releasing the dose of product above the piece. The dosing device in an embodiment comprises a nozzle. The nozzle includes and annular conduit, which has an inlet and an outlet and, at the outlet, has an annular orifice.

The packaging machine in an embodiment includes a closing unit. The closing unit in an embodiment is configured to form a closed internal space. The internal space contains the dose of product. The internal space is delimited at least partly by a surface of the piece, designed to form an inside surface of the wall.

The packaging machine in an embodiment includes an additional roll. The additional roll contains an additional web. The additional web in an embodiment is made of a flexible material. The machine in an embodiment includes an additional cutting unit. The additional cutting unit in an embodiment is configured for making an additional piece from the additional web. The cutting unit is configured to cut the additional web in order to isolate a portion, constituting the additional piece. In an embodiment the cutting unit and the additional cutting unit coincide. The cutting unit in an embodiment is configured to make an additional piece from the additional web. The additional piece will to form a bottom sheet of the package.

In an embodiment the closing unit is configured to juxtapose the piece with the additional piece (thereby defining the internal space, between the top sheet, defined by the piece, and bottom sheet, defined by the additional piece). In an embodiment the closing unit is configured for sealing the piece to the additional piece (isolating the internal space). The closing unit in an embodiment includes a sealer, designed to seal the piece to the additional piece. The closing unit in an embodiment includes a gluing unit, configured for gluing the piece to the additional piece. The internal space in an embodiment is delimited by the piece (designed to form the wall) and by the additional piece (designed to form a bottom sheet).

In an embodiment the closing group is configured to fold the piece along its centre line and seal externally the margins (by gluing or, preferably, sealing). In an embodiment the piece (designed to form the wall) delimits entirely the internal space.

The packaging machine in an embodiment includes an additional roll. The additional the roll in an embodiment contains an additional web. The additional web in an embodiment is made of a material which can be torn by means of a pressure applied thereto.

The packaging machine in an embodiment includes a further cutting unit. The additional cutting unit is configured to obtain a membrane from the additional web. The additional cutting unit is configured to cut the additional web in order to isolate a portion, constituting the membrane.

The packaging machine in an embodiment includes an applicator. The applicator is configured for connecting the membrane to the piece to cover the scored zone on the surface which will form the inside surface of the wall.

The applicator in an embodiment comprises a sealing device. The sealing device is configured for sealing the membrane to the surface intended to form the inside surface of the wall. The sealing device is configured for sealing the membrane to the surface intended to form the inside surface of the wall in a sealing zone. In an embodiment, the sealing zone is located at the scored zone. In an embodiment, the sealing zone superposes the scored zone. In an embodiment, the scored zone is superposed on the scored zone.

The sealing device, in an embodiment, is a sealing punch, having a sealing profile. The sealing profile defines the sealing zone. The sealing profile in an embodiment is circular (continuous or notched). The sealing zone is a circle, which in an embodiment has a diameter less than the extension of the scored zone. The sealing zone defined by sealing punch in an embodiment is a sealing point, located at the point of intersection of the cuts of the wall.

The applicator in an embodiment comprises a gluing device. The gluing device is configured for sealing the membrane to the surface designed to form the inside surface of the wall along a closed line and surrounding the scored zone. The applicator in an embodiment comprises a device for releasing glue in a liquid form.

The sealing device in an embodiment is an ultrasonic sealer. The ultrasonic sealer, includes a sonotrode. The ultrasonic sealer includes in an embodiment a contact surface.

The sealing device in an embodiment is a hot blade sealer. The hot blade sealer includes a hot blade configured to be interposed between the wall and the membrane, in contact with them, and generate a surface melting. The sealing device in an embodiment is a hot plate sealer. The hot sealer plate includes a hot plate configured to be interposed between the wall and the membrane, in contact with them, and generate a surface melting. The sealing device in an embodiment is a device for contactless heat sealing. The device for contactless heat sealing is configured to exchange heat by convection and/or irradiation.

The sealing device in an embodiment is a rubbing device. The friction device is configured to vibrate the membrane and the wall, rubbing them together and inducing a surface melting.

The sealing device in an embodiment is a laser sealer. The laser sealer includes a laser ray emitter.

The sealing device in an embodiment is configured to induce a chemical melting of the wall and of the membrane, by means of chemical solvents. The sealing device in an embodiment comprises an element for keeping under pressure. In an embodiment the element for keeping under pressure is a clamp. The element for keeping under pressure is configured or keeping in contact the wall and the membrane partially melted.

Brief description of the drawings

This and other features will become more apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying tables of drawings, in which:

- Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view from above of a single-dose package according to the invention;

- Figure 1 A illustrates a detail of the package of Figure 1 ;

- Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view from below of the package of Figure 1 ;

- Figures 3A and 3B illustrate a lateral longitudinal cross section of two corresponding embodiments of the package of Figure 1 ;

- Figure 3C illustrates a detail of the package of Figure 3B;

- Figure 4 illustrates the package of Figure 1 during its opening by a user.

Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention

In this description, the numeral 1 denotes a single-dose package for liquid, semi-liquid, granular or powder products.

The package 1 , in an embodiment, comprises an internal space 2. The internal space 2, in an embodiment, contains a dose of product 3.

The package 1 in an embodiment comprises a wall 4. The wall 4 in an embodiment is flexible. The wall 4 in an embodiment has an outer margin 4B. The wall 4 in an embodiment has a central zone 4A.

The wall 4 in an embodiment delimits at least a part of the internal space 2. The wall 4 in an embodiment has a scored zone 5. The scored zone 5 in an embodiment is defined by a plurality of cuts in the wall. The cuts of the plurality cross (that is, intersect) at an intersection point P of the cuts. The scored zone 5 in an embodiment has the shape of a star with five points (having as the centre the intersection point P of the cuts). The ends of the star form a polygon, to which can be circumscribed a circumference, whose diameter is defined as an extension of the scored zone I.

The package 1 in an embodiment comprises a membrane 6. The membrane 6 in an embodiment is flexible. The membrane 6 in an embodiment is made of polyamide. The membrane 6 in an embodiment has oxygen barrier properties. In an embodiment the membrane 6 is sealable.

The membrane 6 in an embodiment is positioned in the internal space 2. The membrane 6 in an embodiment is connected to the wall 4 to isolate the dose of product 3 from the scored zone 5. The membrane 6 in an embodiment can be torn by means of a pressure applied by the dose of product to the membrane 6. The pressure is applicable by a user during an opening of the package. The pressure is applicable with a hand.

The wall 4 in an embodiment is multi-layer. The wall 4 in an embodiment comprises a plurality of layers. A layer of the plurality of layers of the wall 4 in an embodiment comprises aluminium. A layer of the plurality of layers of the wall 4 in an embodiment comprises polyester. A layer of the plurality of layers of the wall 4 in an embodiment comprises polyethylene. The plurality of layers of the wall 4 in an embodiment comprises an inside layer. The inside layer faces towards the membrane. The inside layer in an embodiment is in contact with the membrane. The inside layer in an embodiment faces towards the internal space. The inside layer in an embodiment is made of the same material as the membrane. The inside layer defines an inner wall of the wall, facing towards the dose of product 3.

The package 1 in an embodiment extends mainly on a plane identified by the longitudinal direction L and a transversal direction T, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. The package 1 in an embodiment has a depth along a vertical direction V, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and to the transversal direction T. The package 1 in an embodiment comprises a bottom sheet 7. The bottom sheet 7 in an embodiment extends on a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the transversal direction T.

The package 1 in an embodiment comprises a top sheet 8. The top sheet 8 in an embodiment extends on a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the transversal direction T. The top sheet 8 in an embodiment defines the wall 4.

The membrane 6 in an embodiment extends on a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the transversal direction T.

The scored zone 5 in an embodiment has the shape of a star with five points. The star with five points in an embodiment belongs to a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction L and the transversal direction T. The extension of the scored zone I is defined in the plane identified by the longitudinal direction L and by the transversal direction T.

In an embodiment the membrane 6 is sealed to the top sheet 4A in a sealing zone 9. The sealing zone 9, in an embodiment, is located in the proximity of (or at) the scored zone 5. The scored zone 5 is thus superposed on the sealing zone 9 (or, in other words, the sealing zone 9 is superposed on the scored zone 5).

The sealing zone 9, in an embodiment, is circular in shape, with a diameter D. The diameter D of the sealing zone is less than the extension of the scored zone I. In an embodiment, the cuts the scored zone 5 define a polygon having a surface (in a plane L-T) less than the surface of the sealing zone 9 (in the same plane L-T).

In an embodiment, the intersection point P of the cuts coincides with the centre of the sealing zone 9. In an embodiment, the membrane 6 is sealed to the wall 4 at the intersection point P of the cuts.

In an embodiment the membrane 6 is sealed to the wall 4 also along a perimeter sealing line 10. In an embodiment the membrane 6 is sealed to the top sheet 8 also along the perimeter sealing line 10. The perimeter sealing line 10 in an embodiment extends in the vicinity of an outer margin 4B of the wall 4. The perimeter sealing line 10, in an embodiment, belongs to a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction L and to the transversal direction T. The perimeter sealing line 10, in an embodiment, surrounds the scored zone 5. The perimeter sealing line 10, in an embodiment, surrounds the sealing zone 9.

In an embodiment, due to the sealing, the membrane 6 at the sealing zone 9 is thinned: this creates a facilitated tear point of the membrane 6.

The invention also provides a method for packaging a single-dose package 1 for liquid, semi-liquid, granular or powder products.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a wall 4. The wall 4 in an embodiment is flexible. The wall 4 in an embodiment delimits at least a part of the internal space 2. The wall 4 has an outer margin 4B. The wall 4 in an embodiment has a central zone 4A.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step for cutting a portion of the flexible wall 4 to define a scored zone 5. In an embodiment, the scoring step comprises a step of applying a plurality of cuts with a point in common, the intersection point P of the cuts.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a dose of product 3 in an internal space 2.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a membrane 6. The membrane 6 can be torn by means of a pressure applied to the membrane 6.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of positioning the membrane 6 in the internal space 2. In an embodiment the membrane 6 is positioned in the internal space 2 alongside the wall 4.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of connecting the membrane 6 to the wall 4, to isolate the dose of product 3 from the scored zone 5.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a bottom sheet 7. The bottom sheet 7 in an embodiment has an outer margin 7B. The bottom sheet 7 in an embodiment has a central zone 7A.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of preparing a top sheet 8. The top sheet 8 in an embodiment has an outer margin 8B. The top sheet 8 in an embodiment has a central zone 8A. The top sheet 8 in an embodiment defines the wall 4. The outer margin 8B of the top sheet 8 in an embodiment defines the outer margin 4B of the wall 4. The central zone 8A of the top sheet 8 in an embodiment defines the central zone 4A of the wall.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of superposing the top sheet 8 on the bottom sheet 7.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of sealing of the outer margin 8B of the top sheet 8 to the outer margin 7B of the bottom sheet 7. The step of sealing of the outer margin 8B of the top sheet 8 to the outer margin 7B of the bottom sheet 7 defines the internal space.

The method in an embodiment comprises a step of sealing of the outer margin 8B of the top sheet 8 to the outer margin 7B of the bottom sheet 7. The step of connecting the membrane 6 to the wall 4 in an embodiment comprises a sealing of the membrane 6 to the top sheet 8, in a sealing zone 9. The sealing zone 9 is located at the scored zone 5. The scored zone 5 is superposed on the sealing zone 9 (or, in other words, the sealing zone 9 is superposed on the scored zone 5). The sealing zone 9 is superposed on the intersection point P of the cuts, defining the scored zone 5.

In an embodiment, the sealing zone 9 is a circle, having the centre coinciding with the point of intersection P of the cuts. In an embodiment, the sealing zone 9 has a diameter D, which is less than the extension of the scored zone I.

The invention also provides a packaging machine for packaging a single dose package 1 for liquid, semi-liquid, granular or powder products.

The packaging machine in an embodiment comprises a roll. The roll contains a web. The web is designed to form a wall 4 of the package 1.

The packaging machine in an embodiment includes a cutting unit. The cutting unit is configured for forming a piece from the web. The packaging machine in an embodiment comprises an additional roll. The additional roll is configured for forming a bottom sheet 7.

The packaging machine in an embodiment comprises a scoring device. The scoring device in an embodiment comprises a blade. The scoring device in an embodiment comprises a cutting element having the shape of a star with five points. The scoring device is configured to form in the wall 4 a scored zone 5.

The packaging machine in an embodiment comprises a dosing device. The dosing device is configured to deliver a dose of product 3.

The packaging machine in an embodiment comprises a closing unit. The closing unit is configured to form an internal space 2. The internal space 2 contains the dose of product 3 and is delimited at least partly by a surface of the piece, which will form an inside surface of the wall 4.

The packaging machine in an embodiment additional comprises an additional roll. The additional roll comprises an additional web. The additional web is made of a material which is tearable by the effect of pressure applied thereon.

The machine in an embodiment comprises a further cutting unit. The further cutting unit is configured to obtain a membrane 6 from the additional web.

The machine in an embodiment includes an applicator. The applicator is configured for connecting the membrane to the piece to cover the scored zone on the surface which will form the inside surface of the wall.

The applicator in an embodiment comprises a sealing device. The sealing device is configured for sealing the membrane 6 to the surface intended to form the inside surface of the wall 4 in a sealing zone 9. The sealing zone 9 in an embodiment is circular, with a diameter D which is less than an extension I of the scored zone 5. The sealing zone 9 in an embodiment is beneath the scored zone 5, at an intersection point P of the cuts defining the scored zone 5, to create a point of facilitated tearing of the membrane 6.