Reusable Envelope

Abstract

The present invention provides a reusable packaging system comprising an envelope having first and second substantially planar sides which are secured to one another so as to define a container having an open end, the first and second sides defining respective apertures there through in the vicinity of the open end of the envelope, the apertures being substantially aligned with one another and a closure member which is substantially planar, flexible and has opposing surfaces at least a portion of one of which carries an adhesive coating, the closure member being located adjacent the open end of the envelope such that the surface carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself through the apertures in the first end and second sides of the envelope. Also provided is a reusable envelope and a closure member for use in such a reusable packaging system.

1 . A reusable packaging system comprising:
 a. an envelope having first and second substantially planar sides which are secured to one another so as to define a container having an open end, the first and second sides defining respective apertures there through in the vicinity of the open end of the envelope, the apertures being substantially aligned with one another; and   b. a closure member which is substantially planar, flexible and has opposing surfaces at least a portion of one of which carries an adhesive coating, the closure member being located adjacent the open end of the envelope such that the surface carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself through the apertures in the first and second sides of the envelope.   
   
   
       2 . A reusable packaging system according to  claim 1 , wherein the surface of the closure member carrying the adhesive coating contacts itself and the closure member is thereby irreversibly bonded to itself. 
   
   
       3 . A reusable packaging system according to  claim 1 , further comprising the surface of the closure member carrying the adhesive coating contacting a surface of a side of the envelope, whereby the two surfaces are non-permanently adhered to each other. 
   
   
       4 . A reusable packaging system according to  claim 3 , wherein the closure member comprises a tamper indicator whereby after adhesion between the two surfaces, removal of the closure member from the envelope will result in damage to the closure member. 
   
   
       5 . A reusable packaging system according to  claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of both opposing surfaces of the closure member carries an adhesive coating. 
   
   
       6 . A reusable packaging system according to  claim 1 , further comprising an insert located within the envelope and extending across at least a portion of the substantially aligned apertures such that the surface of the closure member contacts the insert and adheres reversibly thereto. 
   
   
       7 . A reusable envelope according to  claim 1 , wherein the envelope comprises a waterproof material. 
   
   
       8 . A reusable envelope according to  claim 1 , wherein the envelope comprises a translucent material. 
   
   
       9 . A reusable envelope according to  claim 1 , wherein the envelope further comprises a protective layer located between the two opposing planar sides of the envelope. 
   
   
       10 . A reusable envelope according to  claim 1 , wherein the envelope further comprises a securing apparatus to close the open end of the envelope. 
   
   
       11 . A reusable envelope according to  claim 10 , wherein the securing apparatus comprises a flap extending from one of the planar sides of the envelope such that the flap can be folded over the open end of the envelope and make contact with the opposing planar side. 
   
   
       12 . A reusable envelope according to  claim 10 , wherein the securing apparatus comprises a non-permanent adhesive along at least a portion of at least one planar side in the region of the open end of the envelope on the surface of the at least one planar side opposing the other planar side. 
   
   
       13 - 17 . (canceled)