In order to simplify the opening of their meat packaging, Bell AG
modified their production process in cooperation with the
Fraunhofer AVV. The adaptations, explained below, were based on
the guidelines of Schreib and Liebmann (2011) and Marks et al.
(2012), as well as on the technical know-how of Fraunhofer AVV.
The main objective was to reduce the opening force required. The
opening force depends on various criteria that must be considered
for optimization. First, Bell AG replaced their sealing tools to give a
sealing contour with a constant peeleline profile. This profile ensures
an optimal distribution of force during opening and minimizes
the risk of the plastic cover rupturing. Secondly, the force required to open a peelable package had to be within a defined
range, as determined in a series of technical tests and based on the
findings of the two consumer tests with healthy people and people
with hand disorders, performed by Schreib and Liebmann (2011)
and Marks et al. (2012), respectively. Bell AG obtained this
optimal range by adjusting the parameters of temperature, pressure,
and dwell time of the sealing process for each packaging
machine, in such away that the packages were easier to open while
still ensuring that the contents remained safely wrapped. The
sealing seam and its tear contour were also changed in order to
provide an optimal and jerk-free force distribution during the
opening process. A forward tear contour has a favorable effect on
the peeleline profile. Thirdly, the size of the tear tab exceeded the
threshold of 10 mm in length, providing as large a contact surface
between the fingers and tab material as possible and allowing the
use of the key grip to exert greater force (Fig. 2). Quality management
procedures have been introduced to ensure that daily production
complies with the new specifications. For example, the
force required to open the packaging is tested periodically using a
specifically designed device.