US20170137196A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20170137196A1
Application number: US14/939,630
Authority: US
Inventors: Juan Carlos Tinoco; Scott Hellquist
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-11-12
Filing date: 2015-11-12
Publication date: 2017-05-18

Abstract

Peel-Reclose packaging material formed using an adhesive label in combination with laser scoring technology. The adhesive label is applied over laser scored material before or after the laser score forms a pattern smaller than the adhesive label. The adhesive label and laser scored packaging material can then be opened and resealed. In one embodiment the adhesive label in combination with the packaging material has tamper resistant features.

Description

This is a divisional of Ser. No. 13/899,387, filed May 21, 2013, the entire contents of which are herewith incorporated by reference.
This application claims priority from provisional application No. 61/650,012, filed May 22, 2012, the entire contents of which are herewith incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

In recent years several companies have supplied a variety of peel-reclose packages. Prior technology used mechanical die cutting of films in combination with pressure sensitive adhesive or PSA labels, or scoring of built-in PSA packaging films (PSA layers integrated into the packaging film structure). Mechanical die cutting is not a flexible or accurate process for controlled depth scoring. It requires the need for storing tooling and replacing tooling when worn or trying different patterns, materials, etc. Die cutting is not a clean process thus risking contamination of the product. Die cutting is not reliable due to inconsistency of the score depth, which could compromise the integrity of the package barrier or functionality of the opening feature. Puncture or sharp cuts can occur when die cutting that could result in package propagating in the wrong direction or opening involuntarily.

Integrated PSA into the structure of the packaging film is very expensive to manufacture and requires special machines to both laminate the PSA layer within the film structure and complex laser or mechanical cutting of the score pattern.

SUMMARY

The inventors conceived of a process to manufacture packaging material or film to produce Peel-Reclose packaging using laser scoring technology to form a laser scored pattern in the film in combination with an adhesive label.

One embodiment describes using laser scoring to create an easy open and tamper evident feature in combination with a Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) label to open and reclose the package.

The laser scored pattern can be of different shapes and sizes as described herein as different embodiments.

The laser score can be done before or after applying the PSA label to the packaging material or film, in different embodiments. The PSA label can be applied before or after the laser score is done.

Single or multiple PSA labels and scored patterns up can be done simultaneously within the web width of the packaging material or film.

The laser score can be done from either side of the packaging material or film, from the top or bottom layers.

The laser pattern can be set to cut thru certain targeted layers of the packaging film or material, or cut completely thru the entire structure of the packaging material or film, or both. The laser pattern can also be set to have different characteristics at different sections of the laser scored pattern or shape, having sections where the laser cuts partially thru the packaging film and other sections within the same pattern, where the laser cuts completely thru the packaging material or film.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an in-line label applicator and laser system;

FIG. 2 shows a label with pressure sensitive labels oriented in a transverse direction across the web of material;

FIG. 3 shows a PSA label oriented in the machine direction;

FIG. 4 shows a PSA label on a plastic tray or package;

FIG. 5 shows a 3 across PSA label;

FIG. 6 shows a 2 across PSA label;

FIG. 7 shows a laser score within intermittent cut that provides tamper evident;

FIGS. 8 A-8 C show a tamper evident intricate layer;

FIG. 9 shows a tamper evident alternative pattern;

FIG. 10 shows a pillow pouch with the PSA label;

FIG. 11 shows an alternative embodiment of the pillow pouch with the PSA label;

FIGS. 12 and 13 show a standup pouch with a PSA label;

FIG. 14 shows a vertical pouch with a PSA label;

FIG. 15 shows a box or folding carton with the PSA label;

FIG. 16 A-16 D show different alternatives of ways to apply the label before and after laser scoring.

FIG. 17 shows PSA label being pulled opened and shows laser score opening area, edge or flap of packaging film where PSA label adhesive sticks and shows exposed PSA label area where adhesive is exposed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention generally relates to the field of reclosable packaging for a variety of products, such as perishable food, snack products, cleaning products, medical products, industrial goods, and other packaged items. A preferred embodiment describes a new way to manufacture packaging film for a reclosable package that includes a precision laser scored pattern or shape to create an easy open and tamper evidence feature in combination with an adhesive label. In embodiments, the adhesive label is a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) label for reclosable purposes, however other adhesive labels can be used. Embodiments facilitate the way that the consumer opens and recloses the package. Embodiments describe tamper evident packaging that allows users to inspect the package integrity prior to purchase.

The inventors recognized that use of lasers create the following advantages, described relative to the different embodiments.

- accurately control the depth of cutting in order to protect packaging material barriers.
- varying the depth of cut within the pattern (combine thru with partial-depth cutting or scoring in the pattern)
- integrate tamper-proof features in the pattern or separate feature formed by the combination of the laser, packaging material, and adhesive label.
- create a high-performance hinge design (complex pattern to improve hinge strength when pulled open)
- score from top-side of packaging material with label applied (when label material is transmissive to laser beam)

A laser is used to form a laser scored pattern or shape, which is normally slightly smaller in size than the reclosable PSA label. This typically leaves one edge without a score to form a hinged flap of label and film material with the outer perimeter of the flap having label adhesive exposed. The laser scored shape cuts the inner surface of the packaging film or targeted inside layers so as to form a weakened area. The end user can open the package by grasping the pull tab and peeling back the PSA label allowing easy open of the package along the laser scored pattern or shape. Once the package opens, the section of the film that was laser scored will remain attached to the PSA label. Since the laser scored pattern is smaller than the label, there is exposed adhesive between the perimeter of the PSA label and the scored shape. This exposed adhesive allows the consumer to stick the label back to the outside of the packaging film using that adhesive, thus reclosing the package and sealing the contents after opening.

Preferably, first a PSA label is applied to the outer surface or skin layer of the packaging film, then a pattern or shape is scored by a laser. The laser power is controlled such that the scoring is carried out to a certain depth on the inner surface of the packaging film. Depending on the material or structure of the packaging film, the preferred first step may require the laser to cut completely thru the entire film structure or target specific layers within it.

The PSA label includes a pull tab and is normally larger than the laser scored pattern or shape. Normally there is no adhesive applied to the pull tab, but there is adhesive applied to the rest of the label.

The laminated PSA label on the scored packaging film becomes a complete Peel-Reclose packaging material that can then be applied to various packages.

An embodiment for forming the assemblies to be put on the packages is shown inFIG. 1. The first step is to apply a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) label to the outer surface of a packaging film. Thepackaging film100 is shown initially wound around on ashaft110, and unwinds in themachine direction115. Thepackaging film100 may include printed graphics such as117, and the pressuresensitive label120 may be applied at locations relative to these printedgraphics117. ThePSA label120 can be applied anywhere on thepackaging film web100, not limited by machine direction or cross web direction position location.

In the embodiment ofFIG. 1, the pressure sensitive adhesive (“PSA”) label is applied while the web of packaging film is moving. ThePSA label120 is packaged in a roll format shown as125 with silicon coated carrier liner protecting the adhesive. The PSA label is also oriented to align with the packaging film in the web travel direction. Inline label application is done using alabel applicator130, which controls the rate of the unwinding of thelabel stock120 from the label stock roll125 aprint registration sensor135, label dispensing mechanism140,pressure roller145,application roller154 andliner rewind150. The roll of PSA label runs through the label applicator, causing the PSA label to be released and applied to the outer surface of thepackaging film100 at the desired area relative to the marks orprint117 within thepackaging film110. After thelabel120 is applied, the label carrier liner is rewound and to therewind wheel150.

Once thePSA label120 is applied, the moving web of packaging film is then turned on a pair of

idlers

152,153. After rotating, theouter surface100 of the packaging film faces down, and theinner surface102 of the packaging film faces up. Alaser system160 is located near the moving web, facing towards theinner surface102 of the packaging film. Aphoto sensor165 detects the printed registration marks or print on the packaging film or detects the pre applied label, and allows to triggers thelaser system160 to score a desired pattern or shape into thepackaging film100 in registration with thePSA label120. A key advantage of using laser technology is having the ability to control the energy being delivered into the material to ensure consistent score depths to create an easy open feature without compromising film barriers, in this case the laser score can be designed to prevent cutting into barriers or the PSA label. This can for example, set the power of the laser appropriately. It should be understood, however, that, the PSA label can be applied after the packaging film is being laser scored, also that the packaging film can be laser scored from either side of the packaging film, whether the PSA label is pre applied or not. Also, both sides of the packaging film could be laser scored simultaneously.

In an embodiment, the outer dimensions of the laser pattern or shape are slightly smaller than the PSA label outer dimensions. There are no limitations on the shape or size of neither the PSA label nor the laser scored feature. However, it is preferred to maintain the size of the scored feature smaller than the PSA label. The objective is to create a hinged flap within the PSA label that is not pulling the film with it when lifted and will have adhesive exposed that will be used to reclose the package.

FIG. 17 Illustrates the PSA label1700 and packaging film1705 once the package is opened1715, where the laser scored film1710 is adhered to the PSA label1700. Outline perimeter1720 between PSA label and film shows adhesive exposed that will be used to reclose the package. The packaging film edge or flap1725 is where the PSA label1720 adhesive exposed will be applied back to when packaged is resealed.

After assembling, e.g., using the device ofFIG. 1, the peel-reclose packaging solution (packaging film, PSA label applied, and laser score pattern) is finished. This is then rewound onto a second finished shaft, where the outer surface of the packaging film faces out. The finished roll is shipped to the customer's packaging line where usually the customer will form a pouch or bag and fill it with product, or the product is placed in a preformed tray or container and the peel-reclose packaging solution is applied to seal the top of the tray or container.

FIG. 4 illustrates the peel-reclose packaging solution being heat sealed to the top of a preformed tray orcontainer package400. The PSA label which can be any of the labels shown in any of the figures of this application shown simply generically as410, having thepull tab401 and a laser scoredfeature411. Thepull tab401 may have no adhesive applied to allow the consumer to easily lift and grasp the tab. The consumer opens the peel-reclose package by pulling up ontab portion401 of the label to lift the label. The laser scored pattern on theinner surface411 causes the opening to occur on the laser scored pattern. The curved shape or hooks412,413 at the back end of the laser scored pattern, allows the propagation to stop and prevent the consumer for opening the package beyond the laser scored opening area. The laser scored packaging film is adhered to the label using the adhesive. The laser scored pattern is slightly smaller than the label, which creates a perimeter between the PSA label and the scored shape, thus allowing the consumer to reclose the package by resealing the exposed adhesive to the packaging film.

The pull tab of the PSA label has a bottom surface under which no, same, or different adhesive is used which is optimized for peel and reclose.

Tamper evident features can be included within the laser scored pattern in some embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, tamper evidence is a part of the scored pattern where once the package is open, the film or label will break apart from the score pattern and will not be able to line up within the score pattern when reclosed. The tamper evident feature is to ensure product safety for the consumer in the market place. Examples of tamper evident features can be observed in the embodiments ofFIGS. 7, 8, and 9. The laser scored pattern can be done in registration with the PSA label or the PSA label can be applied in registration with the scored pattern.

The PSA label can be oriented in multiple different directions on the packaging film.FIG. 1 shows the label oriented such that thetab121 of the PSA label is oriented in the direction of movement across the machine.FIG. 2 shows an alternative embodiment, where there is aPSA label200 having atab201. In this embodiment, thetab201 faces towards the edge of thepackaging film205 and the PSA label is oriented across the web within the packaging film. Thelaser score210 is shown being formed on the inner layer of the packaging film. While the label itself is applied on the outer surface of the packaging film.

FIG. 3 shows an alternative embodiment, where thetab301 of thelabel300 faces in the direction of the machine, as shown inFIG. 1. It should be understood, however, that the label and the scored pattern can be formed in any desired direction, and at any location relative to the print or eye mark or randomly placed within the packaging film. InFIG. 3, thePSA label300 is centered with the eye mark. InFIG. 2, thePSA label200 is placed between eye marks. Alternative configurations can also be used.

FIG. 5 shows a 3 across configuration, where 3

PSA labels

500,510 and520 are located 3 across on the surface of thepackaging film530. In registration with the printed eye marks. As in the other embodiments, the PSA label is on theouter surface531 of thepackaging film530, and the laser scores502 are located on eachinner surface532 matching the location inside the body of the label.

In this embodiment, each label such as500 has around portion501, and in the center of the round portion is formed thelaser score502. Thepull tab503 is attached to the edge of the round portion.

FIG. 6 shows an alternative embodiment, with the two across configuration, where the label is in the shape of a triangle with a pull tab. This shows twolabels600,610 on thepackaging film620. Each label such as600 includes atriangular portion601 with apull tab portion602. This forms generally an arrow shaped label. The laser score scores out the inner surface in ashape603, that covers a portion of the triangle.

FIG. 7 shows an alternative embodiment in which the laser score forms an partial score opening. The PSA label701 with thelaser score700, which can be used with any of the embodiments disclosed herein, has first andsecond portions705,706 in which the laser score is not complete or intermittent, where there is a portion of laser score next to a portion of non-laser score. In this way, the system is tamper evident, since the material is not completely scored, and will make a sound and feeling when it is opened for the first time. The curved shape or hooks710,711 at the back end of the laser scored pattern, allows the propagation to stop and prevent the consumer for opening the package beyond the laser scored opening area. Pull tab is shown as715.

Another tamper evident embodiment shown inFIG. 8.FIG. 8 creates an intricate pattern which cannot fit back together after separation. Note the patterns such asFIG. 2 have a laser scoredpattern210 which is formed of simple geometric shapes such as curves. In theFIG. 8 embodiment, thepattern800 includes straight and curved portions, and includes apull tab821, and ashape805 that will facilitate the propagation of the scored pattern or initiation of the opening. The curved shape or hooks815,816 at the back end of the laser scored pattern, allows the propagation to stop and prevent the consumer for opening the package beyond the laser scored opening area. In addition, thePSA label820 is pulled back for easy open there is an intricate tamper

evident pattern

810,811 which is sufficiently small and long such that the pattern part, once removed, will not fit back automatically. Tamper evident allows for product safety.

FIG. 8A shows the top version showing the laser score.FIG. 8B shows a side version, showing how the laser score is seated after the score is made. Thepackaging film850 is scored. However, once the scored area852 is removed, the

intricate portions

810,811 will no longer fit back into the package. Accordingly, after the package has been opened, the

portions

810,811 will extend outside the plane of the package as shown inFIG. 8C.

FIG. 9 shows another tamper evident package, which includes thePSA label920 with apull tab921 and alaser score900 that includes

zigzag patterns

902,904 which again cannot fit back into the packaging, once removed, thus being tamper evident once package is opened.

Other embodiments show other packages on which the Peel-Reclose packaging solution can be used.FIG. 10 shows the PSA label being used on apillow pouch1000. In this embodiment, thePSA label1010 is oval in shape, and the laser scoredfeature1020 is also oval in shape and contains

hooks

1021,1022 at the back end that will stop the propagation. Apull tab1025 is formed on thelabel1010, at one edge of the label in an area where there is no adhesive on the label.

FIG. 11 shows an alternative embodiment, in which apillow pouch1100 is formed with a PSA label of the type shown inFIG. 1. The label is shown as1110, as rectangular with rounded edges, and apull tab1112 at one edge, where the pull tab has an area that extends from the label, but has no adhesive on it. Thelaser score1120 is a rounded score area, with

hooks

1101,1102 at the back end that will stop the propagation, forming an outline of a size smaller than the outer area of the PSA labels.

FIG. 12 shows another embodiment, where astandup pouch1200 is used with aPSA label1210 applied to the front or back of the pouch. ThePSA label1210 is rectangular with rounded edges, and apull tab1212. Thelaser score opening1220 is formed with

anti-counterfeit features

1222 and1224 at opposite edges, forming a unique shape which may be difficult to duplicate or unable align back once package is opened. There are also hooks1226,1228 at the back end that will stop the propagation.

FIG. 13 shows an alternative embodiment, in which thestandup package1300 includes thePSA label1310, withpull tab1330 applied to the top surface with an laser scoredopening1320 in inner surface of the packaging film.

FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment, where there is avertical pouch1400, that has thelabel assembly1410 applied to one edge thereof, withpull tab1430, with thelaser score1420 on that ledge. This unique feature will allow the consumer to pour the contain of the package

FIG. 15 shows an alternative embodiment, in which thelabel1510 is applied to a box orfolding carton1500, with the laser scoring the folding carton to createpattern1520 therein. Thepull tab1530 allows for easy start to opening the package and1550 and1540 show laser scored hooks at the back end that will stop the propagation.

FIGS. 16A thru16D show cross-sections of operations where the label is applied before laser scoring. It is understood, however, that the PSA label can be applied after the laser score is being done. According toFIG. 16 A, aPSA label1600 is applied to the packaging film ormaterial1610. In the embodiments16A,16B, thelaser1620, which can be the same laser shown as160 inFIG. 1, is applied from outside the PSA label into the packaging film. APSA label1600 is formed of a material which is transmissive to the laser beam. An example of low absorption or transmissive material is polyethylene (PE). There are other substrates or packaging films such as, polypropylene (PP) and nylon (PA) that could be transmissive to the laser beam, if used in combination with the proper wavelength laser type. Thus the laser beam travels through the PSA layer, and cuts the first layer of the packaging film generally shown as1635, for example could be a polyester (PET) layer. In this embodiment, abarrier layer1640, for example polyethylene (PE) is provided which also may be either immune to laser, or may be harder to cut so that only the first layer is actually penetrated. Typical laminations include polyester (PET), polypropylene (PP), and PLA, within the first layer of the structure.

FIG. 16 B shows an alternative embodiment, It might be necessary to cut deeper into the film structure to create an easy open feature, so that the power of the laser beam is increased to cut the entire structure of the packaging film both the first1660 and the barrier or sealant layers1665. It might be necessary to have barrier properties within the PSA label to preserve the product.

FIG. 16 C,16D show another embodiment of applying the laser score after the PSA label has already been applied to the top of the packaging film. In this embodiment, the laser score is applied from the sealant side of the packaging film, usinglaser1620.FIG. 16C. In this embodiment, thebarrier layer1650 is transmissive to the laser beam, thus cutting thefirst layer1670 of the packaging film this way, without cutting the PSA label.FIG. 16 D shows alternative embodiment in which the laser score is applied from the sealant side through both thebarrier layer1680 and thefirst layer1690 of the packaging film, while stopping the laser beam at the bottom of the PSA label. Same asFIG. 16B, It might be necessary to have barrier properties within the PSA label to preserve the product.

Our invention is flexible and allows for quick change of scoring patterns and shapes, tamper evidence and security features can be added or modified at any time, and lower cost of manufacture. The laser system and label applicator are readily available equipment and can be integrated into existing packaging film processes without added time or costs. The laser never wears out and is a non-contact process which guarantees a clean process. Laser scoring produces a very consistent score depth, which results in a reliable package that will always open and the reliability of keeping the products protected within the package. PSA labels are mass produced, low cost, and can be customized according to the unique application. Label material substrate, size, shape, and adhesive type can easily be selected to any type of packaging film, material, or particular application. Specific adhesives, including pressure sensitive, can be selected to complaint with FDA regulations regarding food grade & medical products as to not contaminate the product itself in the case the adhesive migrates or get in touch with the product.

Those of skill in the art would further appreciate that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and algorithm steps described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. Note that many of the embodiments require controlling, and the controllers may be electronic or computer systems as explained herein.

There are no limitations regarding the packaging film or material used, it can be single polymer, multi-polymer, paper, folding carton, multi-laminate structures, etc.

As described on previous embodiments, our preferred method is to use Pressure sensitive adhesives, that are food safe, However, this invention is not limited to any specific label material, adhesives type, or carrier liner or linerless label. The PSA label material can be designed to be laser transmissive, meaning the laser beam won't cut thru it, and have barrier properties built in. Examples are shown in drawing16.

The PSA label may be applied to the packaging film, randomly at any location, within a fixed repeat, or orientation or in registration within the print or package type.

The PSA label and laser score process can be completed in continuous or indexing mode.

The PSA label(s) can be oriented in either ways machine direction or transverse direction related to the film

The PSA labels can be pre-applied off line or in line with the laser system and then laser scored, or at the contrary the packaging film or material can be laser scored first, then apply the PSA label. Examples of Different approaches are shown inFIG. 16.

The laser score can be done either from the inner or outer layer of the film, weather the PSA label is applied before or after the laser score is done. Examples of Different approaches when pre-applied PSA labels are shown inFIG. 16

The Laser score depth can be adjusted accordingly, and depending of the structure of the packaging film or material, it may be required to laser cut completely thru the entire film or material structure. Also, the laser pattern could be done so that sections have the laser scored pattern or shape, where the laser cuts partially thru the packaging film and other sections within the same pattern, where the laser cuts completely thru the packaging material or film.

The PSA label could be cut either mechanically or using laser technology, normally it is laminated to a carrier liner and provided in roll stock. The PSA label could be linerless also. The PSA label could be clear or printed, made of a variety of substrates such as PP, BOPP, PET, PE, etc. The size, thickness or shape of the PSA label is not limited; it is normally customized to fit a particular package type and application. The PSA label stock can be discrete or continuous. PSA label contains a pull tab or addendum with no adhesive under that is used to peel or lift the PSA label by the consumer. The adhesive used is pressure sensitive, or not, and could be designed with different bond strengths and or types of adhesives types, such as solvent free, water base, etc. Depending upon the application the adhesive could be also designed to be food safe and approved by FDA to be in contact with food or product.

The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein, may be implemented or performed with a general purpose processor, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor can be part of a computer system that also has a user interface port that communicates with a user interface, and which receives commands entered by a user, has at least one memory (e.g., hard drive or other comparable storage, and random access memory) that stores electronic information including a program that operates under control of the processor and with communication via the user interface port, and a video output that produces its output via any kind of video output format, e.g., VGA, DVI, HDMI, display port, or any other form. This may include laptop or desktop computers, and may also include portable computers, including cell phones, tablets such as the IPAD™, and all other kinds of computers and computing platforms.

A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. These devices may also be used to select values for devices as described herein.

The steps of a method or algorithm described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, using cloud computing, or in combinations. A software module may reside in Random Access Memory (RAM), flash memory, Read Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Programmable ROM (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM (EEPROM), registers, hard disk, a removable disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of tangible storage medium that stores tangible, non transitory computer based instructions. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor such that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. In the alternative, the storage medium may be integral to the processor. The processor and the storage medium may reside in reconfigurable logic of any type.

In one or more exemplary embodiments, the functions described may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions may be stored on or transmitted over as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media and communication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of a computer program from one place to another. A storage media may be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer.

The memory storage can also be rotating magnetic hard disk drives, optical disk drives, or flash memory based storage drives or other such solid state, magnetic, or optical storage devices. Also, any connection is properly termed a computer-readable medium. For example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and blu-ray disc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media. The computer readable media can be an article comprising a machine-readable non-transitory tangible medium embodying information indicative of instructions that when performed by one or more machines result in computer implemented operations comprising the actions described throughout this specification.

Operations as described herein can be carried out on or over a website. The website can be operated on a server computer or operated locally, e.g., by being downloaded to the client computer, or operated via a server farm. The website can be accessed over a mobile phone or a PDA, or on any other client. The website can use HTML code in any form, e.g., MHTML, or XML, and via any form such as cascading style sheets (“CSS”) or other.

Also, the inventor(s) intend that only those claims which use the words “means for” are intended to be interpreted under 35 USC 112, sixth paragraph. Moreover, no limitations from the specification are intended to be read into any claims, unless those limitations are expressly included in the claims. The computers described herein may be any kind of computer, either general purpose, or some specific purpose computer such as a workstation. The programs may be written in C, or Java, Brew or any other programming language. The programs may be resident on a storage medium, e.g., magnetic or optical, e.g. the computer hard drive, a removable disk or media such as a memory stick or SD media, or other removable medium. The programs may also be run over a network, for example, with a server or other machine sending signals to the local machine, which allows the local machine to carry out the operations described herein.

Where a specific numerical value is mentioned herein, it should be considered that the value may be increased or decreased by 20%, while still staying within the teachings of the present application, unless some different range is specifically mentioned. Where a specified logical sense is used, the opposite logical sense is also intended to be encompassed.

The previous description of the disclosed exemplary embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to these exemplary embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.