IL316625B2 - A sachet opener and methods of fabricating and using same - Google Patents

Description

A SACHET OPENER AND METHODS OF FABRICATING AND USING SAME FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a sachet opener and methods of fabricating same and using same. Opening sachets can be challenging due to poorly designed tear mechanisms, often resulting in spills, product waste, or contamination. Many users, particularly those with reduced dexterity, struggle to open sachets cleanly and efficiently, leading to frustration and a diminished user experience. The difficulty in achieving a precise tear without damaging the contents highlights the need for a specialized sachet opener that provides a clean, effortless, and reliable way to open sachets while maintaining the integrity of the packaging. Additional background art includes: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0083794; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/064503; U.S. Patent No. 4,570,339; U.S. Patent No. 6,263,772; U.S. Patent No. 9,914,227; FR Patent No. 2819797; DE Patent No. 202022105720; PCT Publication No. WO2016128963. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention there is provided a sachet opener, comprising a body, the body having an upper end, a lower end, a distal end and a distal end portion annexed thereto and a proximal end and a proximal end portion annexed thereto, the upper end comprises a first member and a second member, the first member and the second member are connected to or integrally formed with the proximal end, the lower end comprises a third member and a fourth member, the third member and the forth member are connected to or integrally formed with the proximal end, the first member and the third member are paired to form a first element, the second member and the forth member are paired to form a second element, such that both the first element and the second element are connected or integrally formed with the proximal end, and further such that a slit is formed between the first element and the second element, the slit extending from the distal end in a direction of the proximal end, the upper end and the lower end are designed to engage a sachet therebetween close to the distal end such that moving the first element and the second element in opposing directions along the slit applies shearing forces onto the sachet. According to some embodiments of the invention, the first member, second member, third member and fourth member are integrally formed with the proximal end, wherein the moving comprises flexing, whereby flexing the first element and the second element in opposing directions along the slit applies shearing forces onto the sachet. According to some embodiments of the invention, the moving comprises pivoting effected by a pivot positioned at the proximal end portion. According to some embodiments of the invention, wherein: (i) the upper end and the lower end are connected at each of the first element and the second element at the distal end, thereby allowing the moving; (ii) the proximal end comprises an upper proximal end portion and a lower proximal end portion; and (iii) the upper proximal end portion is integrally formed with the upper end and share a common first plane therewith and the lower proximal end portion is integrally formed with the lower end and share a common second plane therewith, wherein the proximal end allows the sachet to be accepted into the sachet opener via the proximal end and engaged between the upper end and the lower end close to the distal end. According to some embodiments of the invention, the sachet opener has an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereas: the upper end and the lower end are hingedly connected at each of the first element and the second element at the distal end, each via a hinge, thereby allowing the moving and further allowing transforming the sachet opener from the open configuration to the closed configuration and further wherein, during the transforming, engaging the sachet to be engaged between the upper end and the lower end close to the distal end. According to some embodiments of the invention, the upper end and the lower end are connected at each of the first element and the second element at the proximal end.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the sachet opener has an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereas: the upper end and the lower end are hingedly connected via a hinge at the proximal end thereby allowing the moving and further allowing transforming the sachet opener from the open configuration to the closed configuration and further wherein, during the transforming, engaging the sachet to be engaged between the upper end and the lower end close to the proximal end. According to some embodiments of the invention, the hinge is selected from the group consisting of a snap hinge, an integral hinge, a friction hinge and a spring hinge. According to some embodiments of the invention, at least a portion of an interior surface of the upper end or the lower end at a region of the elements comprises at least one gripping surface. According to some embodiments of the invention, the sachet opener further comprises a lip structure in continuation with at least one upper end and/or lower end, the lip structure for facilitating separation between the upper end and the lower end and for accepting between the upper end and the lower end and thereafter engaging the sachet closer to the distal end. According to some embodiments of the invention, the sachet opener further comprises a lip structure in continuation with at least one upper end and/or lower end, the lip structure for facilitating separation between the upper end and the lower end and for accepting between the upper end and the lower end and thereafter engaging the sachet closer to the distal end. According to some embodiments of the invention, the sachet opener further comprises a groove formed at a distal end of the each of the first element and the second element, each the groove being in communication with the slit for facilitating initiation of the moving by a user. According to some embodiments of the invention, the sachet opener further comprises at least one blade connected to or integrally formed with the first member, second member, third member and/or the fourth member along at least a portion of the slit such that when the sachet is engaged between the upper end and the lower end and shearing forces are applied, the sachet is at least partially cut by the at least one blade. According to some embodiments of the invention, the blade is serrated. According to some embodiments of the invention, the blade is plain.

According to some embodiments of the invention, the sachet opener comprises a weakening disconnecting region partially disconnecting a portion of each of the first element and second element from the proximal end. According to some embodiments of the invention, the weakening disconnecting region is a notch positioned perpendicularly to and in communication with the slit. According to some embodiments of the invention, the first element and second element comprise an enlarged area for facilitating holding the sachet opener by a user. According to some embodiments of the invention, the upper end and the lower end are connected via a snap mechanism. According to some embodiments of the invention, the upper end and the lower end are glued, adhered, bonded and/or soldered. According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention there is provided a method of opening a sachet, the method comprising: (a) placing the sachet between the upper end and lower end of the sachet opener as described herein, such that two layers of the sachet are between the upper end and lower end; (b) moving the first element and the second element in opposing directions along the slit to apply shearing forces onto the sachet to thereby open the sachet.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S) Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced. In the drawings: FIG. 1 shows different views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention; FIG. 2 shows different views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention; FIG. 3 shows a view of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention and engaging a sachet in a position which allows applying shearing forces by a user; FIG. 4 shows different views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention; FIG. 5 shows different views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention; FIG. 6 shows different views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention; FIG. 7 shows enlarged views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention as illustrated in FIG. 6; FIG. 8 shows different views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention; and FIG. 9 shows an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention and engaging a sachet in a position which allows applying shearing forces by a user; FIG. 10 shows different views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention; FIG. 11 shows different views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention; FIG. 12 shows different views of an exemplary sachet opener in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION The present invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a sachet opener and methods of fabricating same and using same.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and/or methods set forth in the following description and/or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. The terms of "up", "upper", "low", "lower", are used throughout the description for the sake of brevity alone and are relative terms only and not intended to require a particular component orientation. According to an aspect of the invention, there is disclosed or provided a sachet opener 10 . For purposes of better understanding some embodiments of the present invention, reference is now made to FIGs. 1-12 showing various views of an exemplary sachet opener according to embodiments of the present invention. As used herein, in the specification and claims section that follows, the term "sachet" refers to a sealed, flexible package typically made from plastic, paper, foil, or a combination of these materials . The content of the sachet is contained between two layers of said material. Sachets are commonly used for liquid, gel, powder, or granular products, such as condiments, personal care items, pharmaceuticals, food/feed and food/feed supplements. According to a specific embodiment, the sachet is typically designed to hold a single-use portion of a product. In other embodiments, the sachet, once opened, can be secured using an external closure tool, such as a clip, twist tie, or similar accessory, to preserve the remaining contents for future use. The structure of a sachet is intended to maintain the freshness, hygiene, and portability of its contents until the point of use. In some embodiments, the sachet is rectangular or square in shape. In some embodiments, the sachet comprises a tear line or a tear notch. The phrase "tear notch" refers to a small indentation or cut on the edge of the sachet, providing a weak point where the user can easily begin tearing to open the package.

The phrase "tear line" refers to a pre-scored or perforated line along the sachet’s surface that guides the user in tearing the package along a specific path for easy access to the contents. However, oftentimes these are insufficient to allow ease of opening sachets without the need for additional tools. In other embodiments, the sachet is devoid of a tear notch or a tear line. As used herein, in the specification and claims section that follows, the phrase "sachet opener" refers to a device designed specifically to facilitate the controlled opening of a sachet. Sachet opener 10 comprises body 12. As used herein, in the specification and claims section that follows, the term "body" refers to the main structural component of the sachet opener, which houses or supports the functional elements of the device, as described herein. As specifically shown in FIGs. 1, 2 and 4-8, 10 and 11, body 12 has upper end 14 , lower end 16 , distal end 18 and distal end portion 20 annexed thereto and proximal end 22 and proximal end portion 24 annexed thereto. Upper end 14 comprises first member 26 and second member 28 , first member 26 and second member 28 are connected to or integrally formed with proximal end 22 , lower end 16 comprises third member 30 and a fourth member 32 , third member 30 and forth member 32 are connected to or integrally formed with proximal end 22 , first member 26 and third member 30 are paired to form first element 34 , second member 28 and fourth member 32 are paired to form second element 36 , such that both first element 34 and second element 36 are connected or integrally formed with proximal end 22 , and further such that slit 38 is formed between first element 34 and second element 36 , slit 38 extending from distal end 18 in a direction of proximal end 22 , upper end 14 and lower end 16 are designed to engage a sachet therebetween close to distal end 18 such that moving first element 34 and second element 36 in opposing directions along slit 38 applies shearing forces onto the sachet. As used herein, in the specification and claims section that follows, the phrase "connected to or integrally formed" means that the elements are either connected through a fixed attachment mechanism, such as fastening, bonding, or other joining methods, or integrally formed as a single, continuous structure without the need for additional connections. In the case of integral formation, the elements may be molded, cast, or manufactured as one unitary piece, eliminating the need for separate assembly and ensuring structural continuity and strength. As used herein, in the specification and claims section that follows, the term "slit" refers to a narrow, elongated opening formed between two elements (in this case first element 34 and second element 26 ) that are positioned in close proximity. The elements are configured to move in opposite directions, creating a shearing force along the length of the slit. The width and shape of the slit may change dynamically in response to the movement of the elements, enabling precise shearing action. As mentioned, slit 38 extends from distal end 18 in a direction of proximal end 22 , such that the highest shearing force is applied at distal end 18 and decreases when moving progresses towards proximal end 22 . Thus, "distal end" is defined as the end of body 12 which is subject to the highest shearing forces as a result of moving. As used herein, in the specification and claims section that follows, the term "moving" relates to a hand-made action applied by a user. Moving involves the application of opposing forces in parallel but opposite directions along slit 38 , generating shearing forces that cause the sachet engaged between upper end 14 and lower end 16 to tear the sachet. A specific embodiment of moving is illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5 and FIG. 6. Thus, according to a specific embodiment, first member 26 , second member 28 , third member 30 and fourth member 32 are integrally formed with proximal end 22 , wherein moving comprises flexing, whereby flexing first element 34 and second element 36 in opposing directions along slit 38 applies shearing forces onto the sachet. Such a configuration is illustrated in FIG. 1. As used herein, in the specification and claims section that follows, the term "flexing" refers to the bending or deformation of an element or material in response to an applied force, allowing it to temporarily change shape without breaking. This action typically occurs in flexible or semi-rigid materials and allows the element to return to its original form once the force is removed. According to another embodiment, moving comprises pivoting effected by pivot 42 positioned at proximal end 22 . FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary moving mechanism which is based on a pivot.

As used herein, in the specification and claims section that follows, the term "pivoting" refers to the rotational movement of one element relative to another around a fixed point or axis. This movement allows the element to rotate, swing, or turn in a controlled manner, typically within a limited range. Pivoting is commonly used in mechanisms involving hinges or joints, where one part rotates relative to another to facilitate the desired motion. Materials for pivot 42 or for flexing can be made of a variety of materials depending on the design, durability requirements, and functionality. Common materials include plastic, metal, rubber and composite materials. High-strength plastics such as polypropylene are commonly used because they provide durability, flexibility, and resistance to wear and tear. Metal such as stainless steel or aluminum, offer higher durability and strength compared to plastic. Composite materials such as plastic reinforced with fiberglass can also be used. Elastomeric materials are used at times. Any of these can be considered as individual embodiments or combination of embodiments. Flexing sachet opener 10 is typically fabricated from a material which allows flexing. According to a specific embodiment, where there is pivot 42 there is no flexing. As specifically shown in FIG. 5, sachet opener 10 further comprises a weakening disconnecting region 60 partially disconnecting a portion of each of first element 34 and second element 36 from proximal end 22 . According to a specific embodiment, weakening disconnecting region is a notch positioned perpendicularly to and in communication with slit 38 . Weakening disconnecting region 60 is designed to allow controlled flexing of first element 34 and second element 36 relative to proximal end 22 , thereby enabling a more effective application of shearing forces during moving. In a specific embodiment, weakening disconnecting region 60 is a notch positioned perpendicularly to and in communication with slit 38 . This creates a localized reduction in material thickness or strength, allowing for increased flexibility at that specific point. This controlled flexing enables the upper and lower ends of the opener to move in opposite directions while maintaining alignment and precision during moving. Weakening disconnecting region 60 may vary in shape, depth, and width depending on the required flexing characteristics, ensuring a balance between flexibility and structural integrity.

As specifically shown in FIG. 4, the sachet can be accepted into sachet opener 10 via proximal end 22 . Thus, according to an embodiment of the invention: (i) upper end 14 and lower end 16 are connected at each of first element 34 and second element 36 at distal end 18 , thereby allowing moving; (ii) proximal end 22 comprises upper proximal end portion 44 and lower proximal end portion 46 ; and (iii) upper proximal end portion 44 is integrally formed with upper end 14 and share a common first plane therewith and lower proximal end portion 46 is integrally formed with lower end 16 and share a common second plane therewith, wherein proximal end 22 allows the sachet to be accepted into sachet opener 10 via proximal end 22 and engaged between upper end 14 and lower end 16 close to distal end 18 . It will be appreciated that sachet opener 10 can be in a closed configuration as shown in FIGs. 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8. According to other embodiments, the sachet is transformable from an open to closed configurations, in a reversible or non-reversible manner. The open configuration can be advantageous especially in storing large amounts of sachet opener 10 . As specifically shown in FIG. 5, sachet opener 10 has an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereas: upper end 14 and lower end 16 are hingedly connected at each of first element 34 and second element 36 at distal end 18 , each via hinge 48 , thereby allowing said moving and further allowing transforming sachet opener 10 from open configuration (right drawing in FIG. 5) to closed configuration (middle and left drawings of FIG. 5) and further wherein, during said transforming, engaging the sachet to be engaged between upper end 14 and lower end 16 close to distal end 18 . Alternatively and as specifically shown in FIG. 1 and 2, the sachet can be accepted into sachet opener 10 via distal end 18 . Thus, according to an embodiment of the invention, upper end 14 and lower end 16 are connected at each of first element 34 and second element 36 at proximal end 22 . According to another embodiment and as illustrated in FIG. 10, sachet opener 10 has an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereas: upper end 14 and lower end 16 are hingedly connected via hinge 48 at proximal end 22 , thereby allowing moving and further allowing transforming sachet opener 10 from said open configuration to closed configuration and further wherein, during transforming, engaging the sachet to be engaged between upper end 14 and lower end 16 close to proximal end 22 . According to a specific embodiment, hinge 48 is selected from group consisting of a snap hinge, an integral hinge, a friction hinge and a spring hinge. In the case of the snap hinge, the hinge is configured to securely hold sachet opener 10 in a closed or open position through a snapping action. The integral hinge is a living hinge formed as a single, continuous part of the material of sachet opener 10 , allowing flexing without additional components. The friction hinge allows for adjustable movement between upper end 14 and lower end 16, holding sachet opener 10 in various positions without snapping. The spring hinge provides automatic return of sachet opener 10 to a default closed or open configuration by a spring mechanism integrated into the hinge structure. As is illustrated in FIGs. 1 and 7, at least a portion of an interior surface of upper end 14 or lower end 16 at a region of elements 34 and 36 comprises at least one gripping surface 50 . As used herein, in the specification and claims section that follows, the phrase "gripping surface" refers to a textured or structured area on at least a portion of the interior surface of upper end 14 or lower end 16 of sachet opener 10 , designed to enhance friction and secure retention of a sachet engaged therein. Gripping surface 50 may be formed by various structures, such as raised patterns, ridges, grooves, or soft materials, that increase the contact and resistance between sachet opener 10 and the sachet, ensuring a firm hold during use. Examples of gripping surfaces include: Ridges or Grooves: Raised linear or geometric patterns that provide additional surface area and friction, improving the grip on objects. Rib and groove or male and female interlocking pattern. This design allows two surfaces to interlock securely when pressed together, providing both a gripping function and the ability to close or seal the surfaces Rubber or Elastomer Inserts: Soft, high-friction materials like rubber or silicone embedded on the gripping surface, offering enhanced grip and cushioning for more delicate objects.

Knurled or Textured Surfaces: Fine, cross-hatched or irregular surface patterns that increase friction between the sachet opener and the sachet, preventing slippage. Tapered Ribs: Gradually increasing or decreasing ridges that provide varying degrees of pressure across the surface for secure gripping. Serrated Edges: Small, tooth-like structures along the gripping surface to "bite" into or hold onto materials like paper without damaging them. These gripping surface structures are designed to ensure that the sachet opener holds objects securely, while being versatile enough to handle a wide range of materials. In order to facilitate separating upper end 14 from lower 16, sachet opener may comprise lip(s) at an end which is designed to accept the sachet (see FIG. 4 and FIG. 11). Thus, according to an embodiment of the invention which is exemplified in FIG. 4, sachet opener 10 further comprises lip structure 52 in continuation with at least one upper end 14 and/or lower end 16 , lip structure 52 for facilitating separation between upper end 14 and lower end 16 and for accepting between upper end 14 and lower end 16 and thereafter engaging the sachet closer to distal end 18 . According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, which is exemplified in FIG. 11 sachet opener 10 comprises lip structure 52 in continuation with at least one upper end 14 and/or lower end 16 , lip structure 52 for facilitating separation between upper end 14 and lower end 16 and for accepting between upper end 14 and lower end and 16 thereafter engaging the sachet closer to distal end 18 . Lip structure 52provides a grip point for the user’s fingers or thumb to easily separate upper end 14 from lower end 16 and engage the sachet. Lip structure 52 may have a slightly curved or angled surface, with an incline typically ranging between 5 and 30 degrees, to allow for easy finger placement and leverage. The inner surface of the lip may include a textured or roughened finish, such as a series of fine ridges, bumps, or knurling, to enhance grip and prevent slippage during use. The degree of roughness on lip structure 52 can vary, with an average surface roughness (Ra) between 20 and 100 micrometers, depending on the application and the material of sachet opener 10 . The shape of lip structure 52 can vary, from a rounded or chamfered edge for comfort to a more pronounced rectangular or angled protrusion for stronger leverage. The lip structure is positioned such that it provides ergonomic access, allowing for the easy application of force to open sachet opener 10 without requiring excessive effort from the user. According to an embodiment of the invention which is exemplified in FIG. 5, sachet opener 10 further comprises groove 54 formed at distal end 18 of each of first element 34 and second element 36 , each groove 54 being in communication with slit 38 for facilitating initiation of said moving by a user. Groove 54 can be of any shape such as a V shape or a U shape, when sachet opener 10 is in a closed configuration or a diamond or circle/oval shape when sachet opener 10 is in an open configuration (in essence completing a symmetric shape). In order to ensure opening the sachet, sachet opener 10 may further include at least one cutting element. As specifically exemplified in FIG. 7, and according to some embodiments of the invention, sachet opener 10 further comprises at least one blade 58(1, 2, 3, 4 blades) connected to or integrally formed with first member 26 , second member 28 , third member 30 and/or fourth member 32 along at least a portion of slit 38 such that when the sachet is engaged between upper end 14 and lower end 16 and shearing forces are applied, the sachet is at least partially cut by at least one blade 58 . Blade 58 may be either a separate component connected to first member 26 , second member 28 , third member 30 , and/or fourth member 32 via adhesive, fasteners, or other securing mechanisms, or it may be integrally formed as part of one or more of these members during manufacturing. Blade 58 is characterized by a plain (sharp) or serrated edge, designed to initiate and guide the cutting of the sachet as shearing forces are applied while moving. Blade 58 may extend partially or fully along the length of slit 38 , ensuring that the sachet is at least partially cut as the upper and lower ends are moved in opposite directions. In some embodiments, blade 58 may feature multiple cutting surfaces, such as serrations, notches, or angled edges, to enhance cutting efficiency depending on the type of sachet material. Blade 58 may be made from materials such as stainless steel, hardened plastic, or other durable cutting materials. The blade’s thickness and sharpness are optimized to allow for controlled and precise cutting, while minimizing the risk of accidental injury to the user. The blade's profile may be straight, curved, or angled, depending on the intended cutting motion and sachet design.

According to a specific embodiment and as is illustrated in an exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8, first element 34 and second element 36 comprise enlarged area 62 for facilitating holding the sachet opener by a user. Enlarged area 62 is typically an integral extension of upper end 14 and lower end 16 and typically made of the same material. However, connected configurations are also contemplated herewith. It will be appreciated that the size of enlarged area 62 allows for secure and ergonomic handling during use. The dimensions and shape is selected such that is allows gripping by a holder typically by the use of opposing thumbs. Sachet opener 10 may further comprise a promotional branding or a design element. Such advertising or artwork can be cast into sachet opener 10 , or applied using techniques such as pad printing or dye sublimation heat transfers, thus making the advertising available in color. Sachet opener 10 may be fabricated using materials and methods which are well known in the art. Fabrication options include but are not limited to injection molding (particularly for plastic), die casting (primarily for metal), injection molding such as 3D printing (typically used for both plastic and metal), stamping and forming, laser cutting and machining (both plastic and metal) and thermoforming (typically used for plastic). Connecting the upper end 14and lower end 16 can be done by hinges, fastener, screws or rivets, adhesive bonding ,ultrasonic welding , s nap-fit connection and pin- and-hole assembly According to a specific embodiment, upper end 14 and lower end 16 are connected via a snap mechanism. According to a specific embodiment, upper end 14 and lower end 16 are glued, adhered, bonded and/or soldered. Materials which can be used for sachet opener 10 include plastic and metal, combinations of same as well as other materials. Examples of suitable plastics include polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), and biodegradable plastics such as polylactic acid (PLA). For metals in reusable or premium versions, suitable options include aluminum, stainless steel, and zinc alloy. According to embodiments of the invention, sachet opener 10 may have a length ranging from approximately 40 mm to 120 mm (in closed configuration or twice as much in open configuration), a width ranging from approximately 10 mm to 40 mm, and a thickness ranging from approximately 3 mm to 15 mm. Also contemplated herewith is a method of using sachet opener 10 , as illustrated in exemplary embodiments of FIG. 3 and FIG. 9. Thus, according to an aspect of the invention there is provided a method of opening a sachet, the method comprising: (a) placing sachet 64 between upper end 14 and lower end 16 of sachet opener 10 , such that two layers of sachet 64 are between upper end 14 and lower end 16 ; (b) moving first element 34 and second element 36 in opposing directions along slit 38 to apply shearing forces onto sachet 64 to thereby open the sachet. Embodiments of the method are illustrated in FIGs. 3 and 9, where sachet opener 10 is used to open sachet 64 by user 68 . Sachet opener 10can also be used for squeezing out the sachet content as shown in one embodiment of FIG. 12. This is done by placing in slit 38 and applying a gentle pressure by the user. Hence sachet opener 10 has at least dual functions. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", "having" and their conjugates mean "including but not limited to". The term "consisting of" means "including and limited to". The term "consisting essentially of" means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and/or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and/or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure. As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term "a compound" or "at least one compound" may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof. Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range. Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases "ranging/ranges between" a first indicate number and a second indicate number and "ranging/ranges from" a first indicate number "to" a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween. It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

Claims (21)

1. WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A sachet opener, comprising a body, said body having an upper end, a lower end, a distal end and a distal end portion annexed thereto and a proximal end and a proximal end portion annexed thereto, said upper end comprises a first member and a second member, said first member and said second member are connected to or integrally formed with said proximal end, said lower end comprises a third member and a fourth member, said third member and said forth member are connected to or integrally formed with said proximal end, said first member and said third member are paired to form a first element, said second member and said forth member are paired to form a second element, such that both said first element and said second element are connected or integrally formed with said proximal end, and further such that a slit is formed between said first element and said second element, said slit extending from said distal end in a direction of said proximal end, said upper end and said lower end are designed to engage a sachet therebetween close to said distal end such that moving said first element and said second element in opposing directions along said slit applies shearing forces onto said sachet.

2. The sachet opener of claim 1, wherein said first member, second member, third member and fourth member are integrally formed with said proximal end, wherein said moving comprises flexing, whereby flexing said first element and said second element in opposing directions along said slit applies shearing forces onto said sachet.

3. The sachet opener of claim 1, wherein said moving comprises pivoting effected by a pivot positioned at said proximal end portion.

4. The sachet opener of any one of claims 1-2, wherein: (i) said upper end and said lower end are connected at each of said first element and said second element at said distal end, thereby allowing said moving; (ii) said proximal end comprises an upper proximal end portion and a lower proximal end portion; and (iii) said upper proximal end portion is integrally formed with said upper end and share a common first plane therewith and said lower proximal end portion is integrally formed with said lower end and share a common second plane therewith, wherein said proximal end allows the sachet to be accepted into said sachet opener via said proximal end and engaged between said upper end and said lower end close to said distal end.

5. The sachet opener of claim 4, wherein said sachet opener has an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereas: said upper end and said lower end are hingedly connected at each of said first element and said second element at said distal end, each via a hinge, thereby allowing said moving and further allowing transforming the sachet opener from said open configuration to said closed configuration and further wherein, during said transforming, engaging said sachet to be engaged between said upper end and said lower end close to said distal end.

6. The sachet opener of any one of claims 1-2, wherein said upper end and said lower end are connected at each of said first element and said second element at said proximal end.

7. The sachet opener of claim 6, wherein said sachet opener has an open configuration and a closed configuration, whereas: said upper end and said lower end are hingedly connected via a hinge at said proximal end thereby allowing said moving and further allowing transforming the sachet opener from said open configuration to said closed configuration and further wherein, during said transforming, engaging said sachet to be engaged between said upper end and said lower end close to said proximal end.

8. The sachet opener of any one of claims 5-7, wherein said hinge is selected from the group consisting of a snap hinge, an integral hinge, a friction hinge and a spring hinge.

9. The sachet opener of any one of claims 1-8, wherein at least a portion of an interior surface of said upper end or said lower end at a region of said elements comprises at least one gripping surface.

10. The sachet opener of any one of claims 4-5, 8 and 9, further comprises a lip structure in continuation with at least one upper end and/or lower end, said lip structure for facilitating separation between said upper end and said lower end and for accepting between said upper end and said lower end and thereafter engaging the sachet closer to said distal end.

11. The sachet opener of any one of claims 6-8 and 9, further comprises a lip structure in continuation with at least one upper end and/or lower end, said lip structure for facilitating separation between said upper end and said lower end and for accepting between said upper end and said lower end and thereafter engaging the sachet closer to said distal end.

12. The sachet opener of any one of claims 1-11, further comprising a groove formed at a distal end of said each of said first element and said second element, each said groove being in communication with said slit for facilitating initiation of said moving by a user.

13. The sachet opener of any one of claims 1-12, further comprising at least one blade connected to or integrally formed with said first member, second member, third member and/or said fourth member along at least a portion of said slit such that when said sachet is engaged between said upper end and said lower end and shearing forces are applied, said sachet is at least partially cut by said at least one blade.

14. The sachet opener of claim 13, wherein said blade is serrated.

15. The sachet opener of claim 13, wherein said blade is plain.

16. The sachet opener of any one of claims 1-15, comprising a weakening disconnecting region partially disconnecting a portion of each of said first element and second element from said proximal end.

17. The sachet opener of claim 16, wherein said weakening disconnecting region is a notch positioned perpendicularly to and in communication with said slit.

18. The sachet opener of any one of claims 1-17, wherein said first element and second element comprise an enlarged area for facilitating holding the sachet opener by a user.

19. The sachet opener of any one of claims 1-18, wherein said upper end and said lower end are connected via a snap mechanism.

20. The sachet opener of any one of claims 1-19, wherein said upper end and said lower end are glued, adhered, bonded and/or soldered.

21. A method of opening a sachet, the method comprising: (a) placing said sachet between said upper end and lower end of the sachet opener of any one of claims 1-20, such that two layers of said sachet are between said upper end and lower end; (b) moving said first element and said second element in opposing directions along said slit to apply shearing forces onto the sachet to thereby open the sachet. Dr. Hadassa Waterman Patent Attorney G.E. Ehrlich (1995) Ltd. 35 HaMasger Street Sky Tower, 13th Floor Tel Aviv 6721407