Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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TITLE OF THE INVENTION
COLLAPSIBLE BAG FOR DISPENSING LIQUIDS AND METHOD
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is related to co-pending U.S. Application Serial No.
11 /197,236
entitled COLLAPSIBLE BAG FOR DISPENSING LIQUIDS AND METHOD filed July 27,
2005. This application is also related to co-pending U.S. Patent Application
Serial No.
11/048,622 entitled COLLAPSIBLE BAG FOR DISPENSING LIQUIDS AND METHOD filed
February 1, 2005, which is a continuation of U.S. Patent No. 6,851,579 B2
entitled
COLLAPSIBLE BAG FOR DISPENSING LIQUIDS AND METHOD which is a continuation of
U.S. Patent No. 6,607,097 B2 entitled COLLAPSIBLE BAG FOR DISPENSING LIQUIDS
AND METHOD which is a continuation of U.S. Patent Application Serial No.
09/709,144
entitled COLLAPSIBLE BAG FOR DISPENSING LIQUIDS AND METHOD filed November
10, 2000, now abandoned, which is a continuation of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Serial
No. 60/164,699 entitled COLLAPSIBLE BAG FOR DISPENSING LIQUIDS, filed November
10, 1999. The entire specification of each of the foregoing applications is
hereby incorporated by
reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to collapsible bags for dispensing liquid
products,
and more particularly to collapsible bags having a intemal surfaces which
provide passageways
for the removal of liquid.
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[0004] 2. Background Art
[0005] Various collapsible bags or containers are known in the prior art which
are
adapted to be filled with liquid contents and sealed and which allow their
liquid contents to be
suction withdrawn through their annular spouts or fitments. The walls of the
bag are typically
sheets of plastic, which are typically formed of polyethylene, polypropylene,
nylon, or polyester.
The liquid contents can be juices, milk, drink syrups or other liquids such as
photoprocessing
solutions, cleaning chemicals, or cocktail mixes. An example of these
collapsible bags is the so-
called "bag-in-box" commonly used in the soft drink industry to deliver the
drink syrup to the
dispensing machine. The bags are fed into filling machines which uncap them,
fill them with the
syrup (or other liquid), recap them and box them. The boxes structurally
support the bags during
storage, shipment, and as they are being emptied. The bags are emptied through
a spout in the
bag accessible through a hole in the box and using a pump.
[0006] A plastic dip tube or dip strip disposed in the bag and secured therein
so as to pass
over the spout opening or to be secured to the spout opening assists in the
withdrawal of the
syrup from the bag. The strip prevents the bag from collapsing on the opening
and closing it, and
also guides the remaining quantities of syrup in the bag to the opening as the
syrup continues to
be withdrawn. The strip can be attached to the spout and/or to the inside wall
of the plastic bag.
Alternatively, the dip tube or dip strip can be attached to the perimeter seat
of the bag. Examples
of dip tubes or dip strips and their collapsible bags are shown in U.S.
Patents 4,286,636 (Credle),
4,601,410 (Bond), 5,647,511 (Bond), 5,915,596 (Credle), and 5,941,421 (Overman
et at.) and in
WO 99/46,169 (Coca-Cola Company).
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[0007] In addition to the separate manufacturing step required to make the dip
tube or dip
strip and the attendant material required to make the dip tube or dip strip,
the application to the
bag of a dip tube or dip strip requires yet another separate manufacturing
step. Generally, after
the spout is secured to the bag, the dip tube or dip strip is disposed in the
bag by attachment to
the spout, the inside wall of the bag or to the perimeter seal of the bag, or
a combination of the
above. This adds to the manufacturing time and expense. A further disadvantage
of the strips, in
addition to the cost of manufacturing them, is that they may become dislodged
when the bag is
filled at high pressure. A still further disadvantage of the strips is th at
they may create a back
pressure and reduce fill rates.
[0008] Certain solutions have provided indentations within the walls of the
material.
While this has met with some success, there remain drawbacks. First, the
indentations or
passageways that are associated with the walls are often not suitable for the
evacuation of more
viscous liquids, such as.syrups. Moreover, other such solutions are generally
incapable of
withstanding the forces associated with the suction' evacuation process, such
that the
passageways generally collapse prior to evacuation.
[0009] It is an object of the invention to overcome shortcomings ofthe prior
art identified
above.
[0010] This and other objects of the invention will become apparent in light
of the
specification and claims appended hereto.
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SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The invention comprises a collapsible bag for dispensing liquids,
including
viscous liquids such as syrup and the like. The bag comprises a first wall and
a second wall, a
spout, a surface variation defining a minimum unstressed volume. The first
wall and the second
wall together to define a fluid chamber therebetween. The first wall and the
second wall each
have an inner surface facing the fluid chamber and an opposed outer surface.
The spout is
attached to one of the first and second walls and has an opening therethrough
having an axis
substantially perpendicular to the one of the first and second walls to which
it is attached. The
surface variation is molded into at least a portion of the first wall. The
surface variation limits
contact between the inner surfaces of the first wall and the second wall so as
to define a
minimum unstressed volume therebetween. At least a portion of the minimum
unstressed volume
is maintained substantially throughout evacuation of liquid therefrom by
suction.
[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the minimum unstressed volume between the
first and
second walls is at least.18 cubic centimeters per square inch of surface area
of each of the first
wall and the second wall.
[0013] In another preferred embodiment, the first wall and the second wall
each comprise
a plurality of layers, a first layer of which comprises a heat sealable
polymer material and a
second layer of which comprises a polymer material having a relative strength
greater than that of
the first layer.
[0014J In one such preferred embodiment, the first layer comprises a linear
low density
polyethylene and the second layer comprises=a high density polyethylene. In
another such
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embodiment, the second layer comprises one of the group selected from nylon,
high density
polyethylene, polypropylene and polyesters.
[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of each of the first and
second walls is
less than 10 mils.'More preferably, the thickness of each of the first and
second walls is less than
8 mils.
[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the first wall and the second wall each have
a strength
defined by a secant modulus of at least 30,000 psi. More preferably, the first
wall and the second
wall each have a strength defined by a secant modulus of at least 45,000 psi.
[0017] In another preferred embodiment, the surface variation defines a height
of the
inner surface of the first wall that is between 1.3 and 2.5 times that of the
thickness of the first
wall.
[0018] In another preferred embodiment, the surface variation comprises a
repeated
pattern of nested alternating elongated ridges defining a plurality of peaks
and valleys, wherein
adjoining ridges are disposed obliquely relative to each other.
[0019] In one such embodiment, the adjoining ridges are disposed perpendicular
to each
other.
[0020] In another preferred embodiment, the second wall is planar and the
spout is
attached to the second wall.
[0021] In one such preferred embodiment, each of the elongated ridges has a
substantially
hemispherical cross-section along at least a portion thereof.
[0022] In another such preferred embodiment, each of the elongated ridges has
a length
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of between .0625 inches and .1825 inches.
[0023] Preferably, the surface variation extends substantially along at least
85% of a
surface area of the first wall. In another preferred embodiment, the surface
variation extends
substantially along the entirety of the first wall.
[0024] In another preferred embodiment, the first and second walls further
comprise a
third layer positioned on the second layer opposite the first layer, the third
layer comprising a
polymer material. In one such embodiment, the third layer comprises a linear
low density
material of a lower strength than the second layer.
[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the collapsible bag further comprises an
outer first
wall and an outer second wall, the outer first wall being positioned on the
first wall and the outer
second wall positioned on the second wall generallyjoined at the seals, so as
to define a two-ply
collapsible bag.
[0026] In another embodiment, the collapsible bag further includes a spout,
wherein the
spout further comprises an elongated opening and a base flange. The base
flange extends about
the elongated opening. The flange has a bottom surface wherein the bottom
surface includes a
plurality of surface channels positioned thereon.
[0027] In one such preferred embodiment, the plurality of surface channels
comprise
radial grooves. In another such preferred embodiment, the plurality of surface
channels comprise
a combination of a plurality of concentric circular grooves and a plurality of
radial grooves. In
certain embodiments the bottom surface of the flange includes a plurality of
gussets.
[0028] In certain such embodiments, the gussets are positioned proximate the
elongated
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opening and a plurality of gussets extend between pairs of radial grooves. The
gussets preclude
the creation of a seal by the first wall about the base of the elongated
opening.
[0029] In another embodiment, a plurality of recesses are formed on opposing
sides of
ridges to preclude the formation of a seal by the first wall about the base of
the elongated
opening.
.'i
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] The invention will now be described with reference to the drawings
wherein:
[0031] Figure 1 of the drawings comprises a perspective view of an embodiment
of the
collapsible bag for evacuating liquids of the present invention;
[0032] Figure 2 of the drawings comprises a partial perspective view of the
collapsible
bag, showing, in particular, the unstressed minimum volume thereof;
[0033] Figure 3 of the drawings comprises a partial top plan view of the first
wall of the
collapsible bag of the present invention, showing, in particular, the surface
variation thereof;
[0034] Figure 4 of the drawings is a partial cross-section of the collapsible
bag of the
present invention, taken about lines 4-4 of Figure 10;
[0035] Figure 5a of the drawings comprises a side elevational view of the
spout of the
collapsible bag of the present invention;
[0036] Figure 5b of the drawings comprises a perspective view of a portion of
the
collapsible bag of the present invention, showing, in particular, the spout
thereof;
[0037] Figure 6a of the drawings comprises a perspective view of the spout of
the
collapsible bag of the present invention;
[0038] Figure 6b of the drawings comprises a bottom plan view of a the spout
of the
collapsible bag of the present invention;
[0039] Figure 7 of the drawings comprises a cross-sectional view of the
collapsible bag
of the present invention, taken generally about lines 7-7 of Figure 10,
showing, in particular, the
multi-layer structure of each of the first and second walls;
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[0040] Figure 8 of the drawings comprises a cross-sectional view of another
embodiment
of the flexible container of the present invention, showing, in particular, a
two ply configuiation
thereof;
[0041] Figure 9 of the drawings comprises a schematic representation of a
testing
procedure undertaken with an embodiment of the collapsible bag of the present
invention and a
comparative container;
[0042] Figure 10 of the drawings comprises a top plan view of the collapsible
bag of the
present invention, showing, in particular, the seals thereof, and
[0043] Figures 11 a and 11 b of the drawings comprise an embodiment of the
collapsible
bag of the present invention, showing, in particular, the seals thereof.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0044] While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different
forms, there
is shown in the drawings and described herein in detail several specific
embodiments with the
understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an
exemplification of the
principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the
embodiments
illustrated.
[0045] It will be understood that like or analogous elements and/or
components, referred
...;
to herein, may be identified throughout the drawings by like reference
characters. In addition, it
will be understood that the drawings are merely schematic representations of
the invention, and
some of the components may have been distorted from actual scale for purposes
of pictorial
clarity.
[0046) Referring now to the drawings and in particular to Figure 1, the
collapsible bag of
the present application is shown generally at 10. The collapsible bag includes
first wall 12,
second wall 14, seals 15, surface variation 16 and spout 18. The collapsible
bag may be
configured in any number of different sizes. Seals 15 join first wall 12 and
second wall 14 so as
to define a fluid chamber 56.
[0047] More specifically, with reference to Figure 10, the first wall and the
second wall
may comprise two separate sheets of material joined by top seal 15a, bottom
seal 15b, and
opposing side seals 15c and 15d. One such container is commonly referred to as
the pillow
container. Such containers may have alternative constructions, such as a three
seal pillow
container shown in Figure 1 I a, wherein a sheet.of material is used to form
the front wall and the
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back wall. In such an embodiment, vertical seal 15e joins the two ends of the
single sheet of
material along second wall 14, thereby forming the front and back walls.
Furthermore, top seal
15a and bottom seal 15b, along with side folds complete the fluid chamber. In
still other
embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Figure 11 b, a single sheet may
be folded about
one edge. In turn, top seal 15a (or bottom seal 15b) along with two side seals
15c and 15d along
with the fold at the other of the top and bottom seal togetherjoin the walls
to define cavity 56. Of
course, other constructions are likewise contemplated, including both
variations to the foregoing,
combinations of the foregoing and other constructions as well.
[0048] It is contemplated that the fluid chamber may comprise any number of
different
sizes and shapes. One common shape comprises a 2.5 gallon bag of a generally
rectangular shape
wherein the length of the bag is approximately 21 " and the width of the bag
is approximately 17".
Other common configurations comprise a 5 gallon bag having a generally
rectangular shape with
a length of 24" and a width of 18.75". Of course, the invention is not limited
to these
configurations. Preferably, spout 18 is located proximate one of the top seal
and the bottom seal
between the opposing side edges of the bag. Of course, other positions of the
seal are likewise
contemplated.
[0049] The invention is generally directed to the evacuation of liquids which
are
contained within the fluid chamber 56. Any number of liquids are contemplated
for use in
association with the collapsible bag of the present invention. One of the more
difficult classes of
liquids to be evacuated from a collapsible bag comprises liquids which are
generally viscous
such as syrups and pastes. Such liquids are typically more difficult to
evacuate due to their
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mechanical properties, and general resistance to flow.
[0050] With reference to Figure 4, first wall 12 is shown in outer surface 20;
inner
surface 22 and thickness 24. Inner surface 22 contacts the fluid within the
fluid chamber.
Thickness 24 is generally less than 10 mils and most preferably less than 8
mils. While greater
thicknesses have been contemplated, one advantage of the present invention is
that proper
evacuation can be achieved with a relatively thin film. The strength of the
material is such that
the secant modulus is between 30,000 psi and 80,000 psi, and most preferably
in excess of
45,000 psi. It will be understood that such a range provides the necessary
strength and rigidity
while maintaining a certain flexibility which permits filling, transport and
handling of the bag
without causing failure and leakage.
[00511 First wall 12 comprises a two layer film, and preferably a three layer
film. It will
be understood that such a film may be produced in any number of different
manufacturing
processes without departing from the scope of the invention. One such
manufacturing process
may comprise a lamination process. Another such manufacturing process may
comprise a co-
extrusion process. Other manufacturing processes are contemplated and
considered within the
scope of the invention. In certain embodiments, a single layer film is
contemplated for use.
[0052] One embodiment of the three layer film is shown in Figure 7 as
comprising first
layer 30, second layer 32 and third layer 34. The first layer is in contact
with the liquid positioned
within the fluid chamber 56. First layer 30 comprises a material which
facilitates sealing with the
corresponding layer of the second wall. In the present invention, first layer
30 comprises a linear
low density polyethylene (LLDPE). Such a layer may have a thickness of
approximately 3 mils
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and a density of approximately 0.922 grams per cubic centimeter. Of course,
materials having a
greater or a lesser thickness are contemplated for use. Additionally,
densities between
approximately 0.910 and 0.930 grams per cubic centimeter are contemplated for
such a layer.
[0053] Second layer 32 comprises a material which is typically more rigid
(i.e., stronger)
than the first layer. The second layer increases the ability of the overall
first wall to retain the
surface variations in both an'unstressed condition, and in a stressed
orientation as liquid is
withdrawn from the fluid chamber through suction. In the preferred embodiment
the second layer
comprises an HDPE which is capable of substantially plastic deformation while
retaining its
integrity. The thickness of the second layer is generally less than that of
the first layer in the
contemplated embodiment. In the present invention, the thickness of the second
layer is
approximately 1.2 mils, and the material has a density of approximately 0.960
grams per cubic
centimeter. Of course, materials having greater or a lesser thickness are
contemplated for use.
Additionally, densities between approximately 0.945 and 0.970 grams per cubic
centimeter are
contemplated for such a layer.
[0054] Third layer 34 comprises a material which typically exhibits improved
characteristics relative to heat sealing and/or stress cracks relative to the
second material. The
third layer preferably comprises a LLDPE material. The material has a
thickness of
approximately 1.5 mils in the present embodiment, and has a density of
approximately 0.930
grams per cubic centimeter in the present embodiment. Of course, materials
having a greater or a
lesser thickness are contemplated for use. Additionally, densities between
approximately 0.910
and 0.930 grams per cubic centimeter are contemplated for such a layer.
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[0055] In certain embodiments, the third layer may be omitted, leaving only
the first layer
and the second layer. In other embodiments, additional layers may be employed,
such as, for
example, an oxygen barrier layer, an outer layer having advantageous
mechanical properties
(such as wear characteristics, abrasion characteristics, creasing
characteristics, etc.). In still other
embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in Figure 8, a multi-ply collapsible
bag is
contemplated. In such an embodiment, in addition to the first wall and the
second wall, a separate
ply ofmaterial (connected to the respective wall at seals) may be positioned
so as to overlay
::j'
same, such as first ply 52 and second ply 54. In still other embodiments, the
collapsible bag may
comprise multiple separate layers of material. Finally, in other embodiments,
a single layer
having the properties identified above may be employed.
[0056] Second wall 14 is shown in Figure 7 as comprising outer surface 40,
inner surface
42 and thickness 44. It will be understood that the second wall may comprises
a film that is
similar to that identified above with respect to the first wa11. It will be
understood that for a given
embodiment, the properties of the first wall may be different than those of
the second wall. It is
contemplated that a portion of the second wall may include surface variations
(i.e., the area of the
opposing wall opposite the surface variations in a first wall is substantially
planar). In addition, it
is contemplated that portions of the first wall and portions of the second
wall may include
surface variations which do not contact each other. Opening 26 (Figure 1)
extends through the
second wall. The opening in the present invention is substantially circular
and substantially
uniform, while other configurations are likewise contemplated.
[0057] Surface variation 16 is shown in Figures 2 and 3 as comprising, in a
preferred
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embodiment, alternating nested elongated members, such as elongated members
60. The nested
elongated members may be positioned on one or both of the inner surfaces of
the first wall and
the second wall. Preferably, the elongated members are positioned on both of
the first wall and
the second wall. The elongated members are formed through plastic deformation
by pressing a
pattem onto the film (preferably heating the film prior to formation thereof,
and chilling during
and/or after the formation thereof).
[0058] A cross-sectional view of the surface variation is shown in Figure 4.
As can be
seen, the surface variation defines a height 62 differential between peaks and
valleys on the inner
surface of the first wall. The height exceeds the thickness 24 of the first
wall. While various
dimensions are contemplated, the height is between 1.3 and 2.5 times the
thickness of the first
wall. The disparity in the thickness of the first wall relative to the height
enhances resistance to
collapsing of the container. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the height
is approximately 2
times the thickness of the film. In such a configuration, the elongated member
includes a vertical
component which is quite resistant to collapsing.
[0059] With reference to Figure 3, each elongated member is positioned
obliquely
relative to any adjoining elongated member in such an embodiment (in this case
perpendicular).
Each of the alternating elongated members include length 64, width 66 and
cross sectional
configuration 68 (Figure 4). The combined elongated members define a plurality
of peaks and
valleys in the respective first wall and second wall. The spacing between
adjoining alternating
elongated members is shown at 74. The length of the elongated members can be
varied without
departing from the scope of the present invention. It is contemplated that the
length of the
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elongated members be approximately 0.0625 inches and 0.1875 inches and the
width of the
elongated members be approximately 0.030 inches to 0.070 inches. In the
embodiment shown,
the length of the elongated members is approximately 0.125 inches and the
width is
approximately 0.050 inches.
[0060] Such a surface variation as described provides a plurality of pathways
in various
directions. Moreover, the surface variations are such that they can cooperate
with each other so
that intimate contact between the inner surfaces of the first wall and second
wall is precluded
. ;~
proximate the surface variation. Specifically, when the first wall and the
second wall are
positioned in an abutting configuration, voids representing areas where
contact between the two
walls is not achieved, due to the configuration of the surface variation,
collectively define an
unstressed voluine 58 shown in Figure 4. Through maintenance of this
unstressed volume, fluid
can be evacuated from within the collapsible bag.
[0061] With reference to Figure 2, the minimum unstressed volume configured
for the
passage of fluid in the present invention comprises at least 0.18 cubic
centimeters per square inch
of wall having a surface variation. This minimum represents a condition
wherein a substantial
maximum contact between the opposing walls is realized, but wherein the two
opposing walls
are not drawn or otherwise pressed into each other by outside forces. In the
contemplated
embodiment, the second wall is substantially planar, but the configuration
(i.e., rigidity, strength
and flexibility) of the first wall and the second wall are such that the
minimum unstressed
volume is maintained during vacuum withdrawal of the fluid contents
therewithin. Indeed, the
unstressed volume is generally distributed along a large portion of the
surface area of the
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elongated member, even when the overlapping walls are at maximum contact.
[0062] Of course, other surface variations are contemplated for use, wherein
the patterns
in the first wall are such that a minimum unstressed volume can be maintained,
and wherein the
minimum unstre"ssed volume defines a path through the bag cavity toward, and,
to the spout.
Such a configuration may include members having a substantially different
shape than the
elongated members, and it will be understood that the invention is not limited
to the elongated
members 60.
.:;.
[0063] In addition to the unstressed volume, the material from which the first
wall and
the second wall is formed must be of adequate strength, surface configuration
(i.e., depth, height,
etc.) and/or thickness so that upon evacuation of the collapsible bag through
suction preserves at
least a portion of the minimum unstressed volume. The coordination of same
provides serves to
maintain a portion of the minirrium unstressed volume upon evacuation by way
of suction.
[0064] Spout 18 is shown in Figures 5a and 5b as comprising base flange 80 and
wall
member 82. The spout is generally positioned between opposing side seals
spaced apart the top
seal. The spout is generally closer to the top seal as compared to the bottom
seal. Of course,
variations in the positioning of the spout are likewise contemplated. It is
highly preferred,
although not required that the spout be positioned in the second wall,
opposite the first wall
having the surface configurations positioned thereupon. In such a
configuration, the bottom
surface of the flange is able to interface with the surface configurations of
the first wall greatly
enhancing the resistance to choking about the spout.
[0065] Base flange 80 includes top surface 86 and bottom surface 88. As is
shown in
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Figure 5A, top surface 88 includes sealing region 90. The sealing region
comprises the region
wherein the film is sealed to the flange. Bottom surface 88 includes channels
positioned on spout
18. In the embodiment shown, the spout includes concentric ridges 148, radial
grooves 152 and
gussets 154. The'gussets are positioned at the edge of the spout opening and
between pairs of
radial grooves. In the embodiment shown, multiple gussets are positioned
between each pair of
radial grooves. The gussets cooperate with the first wall surface
configurations to preclude the
creation of a seal between the first wall and the edge of the spout. In other
embodiments, as is
shown in Figures 6a and 6b, recesses such as recess 260 may be positioned
between ridges, such
as ridge 262, so as to preclude the creation of a seal between the first wall
and the edge of the
spout. In other embodiments, the channels may comprise any number of different
shapes and
configurations, inany of which are shown in the co-pending priority
application to which the
present application is a related application. The configuration of the spout
shown in the related
applications has been incorporated by reference herein.
[0066] The wall member 82 extends from the top surface of the base flange. The
wall
member includes an internal surface 94 and an external surface 96. The extemal
surface may
include additional flanges which facilitate the grasping and retaining thereof
by filling and
packaging equipment. The internal surface defines an elongated opening. Of
course, a number of
different sizes, shapes and configurations are contemplated for use in the
spout, and the invention
is not limited to a substantially circular spout having a particular length.
[0067] In operation, the collapsible container is generally filled by fil ling
equipment to a
desired weight or volume. Once filled, the collapsible bag is generally boxed
for shipment and
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dispensing. The collapsible bag may be transported varying distances prior to
evacuation. Once
the destination is reached, a withdrawing device is attached to the container.
The withdrawing
device generally operates through suction to remove the liquid within the
fluid chamber.
[0068] The box having the collapsible bag may be positioned in any number of
different
containers. For example, the collapsible bag can be predominantly lying on the
first wall or the
second wall, wherein the spout may be in a downward or upward direction.
Moreover, the
container may be canted toward the spout. In other coinfigurations, the
collapsible bag may be
resting predominantly on its side edges wherein the spout may be elevated.
Finally, the
collapsible bag may be positioned on the back seal such that the spout is
positioned near the top
of the container (Figure 9). Such a configuration is generally the most
difficult for suction
evacuation and generally presents problems during evacuation. In particular,
with prior art
containers, the flow from the bottom of the container is choked off from the
spout because a
portion of the container between the bottom region and the spout has
substantially fully collapsed
onto itself, thereby substantially precluding any flow of material.
[0069] In the present invention, the surface variations insure that in a
unstressed position,
a minimum volume is maintained between the first wall and the second wall
(Figure 9). By way
of the above defined construction, at least a portion of the minimum volume is
maintained
between the first wall and the second wall to preclude the collapsing of the
walls against each
other, which, in turn, chokes off the flow in the container as portions of the
container become
isolated from the spout. Thus, even through a suction evacuation process of
relatively thick
fluids, such as syrup and the like, virtually complete evacuation of the
container can be achieved
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- even when the spout is positioned proximate the top of the collapsible
container during
evacuation.
[0070] Certain testing was carried out relative to an embodiment of present
invention and
a container available commercially. The embodiment of the container of the
present application
comprised a 2.5 gallon container (21" by 17" rectangular pillow type
container). The first wall
and the second wall comprise a three layer film, wherein the first layer is a
LLDPE having a
thickness of approximately 3 mils; the second*layer comprises a HDPE having a
thickness of
;.,
approximately 1.2 mils; and the third layer comprises a LLDPE material having
a thickness of
approximately 1.5 mils, such that the film comprises a thickness of
approximately 5.7 mils. The
first wall included surface variations having a height of approximately 12
mils and comprise an
alternating set of nested elongated members (Figures 2 and 3). The second wall
was substantially
planar. The length of the elongated members is approximately 0.125 inches, and
the elongated
members have a semi-circular cross-section.
[0071] The test was carried out two times. First, a spout of the type shown in
Figures 6a
and 6b was attached to the container. In the second test, a flat bottom planar
spout was utilized.
In each case, the formed container was filled a conventional post mix syrup
having a specific
gravity of approximately 1.25. The weight of the filled container was measured
and recorded.
The container was then placed in an evacuation test in a vertical orientation
wherein the spout of
the container is positioned proximate the top in a substantially uppermost
orientation, as is
shown in Figure 9. The syrup was evacuated cyclically from the container. In
particular, one
cycle consists of suction of syrup at a flow rate of 7.5 ounces for ten
seconds, followed by a
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period of ten seconds in which the suction ceased. Such a process continued
for a period of
fifteen minutes. The process was stopped and the container was again measured
to detennine the
quantity of fluid that was, in fact, removed from the container during the
test. The measurements
were again recorded.
[0072] The same procedure was undertaken with respect to a commercially
available
container having relatively shallow pathways pressed into the inner surface of
each of the
respective walls, the pathways having an approximate depth of about 0.0018
inches. Such a
.:i
container includes a plurality of pathways pressed into the inner surfaces of
each of the first and
second walls. The pathways are in a waffle pattem so as to define a plurality
of square
protuberances. The spout of such a container is substantially planar.
[0073] The comparative results are identified in the chart below. In
particular, the chart
identifies the competitive bag, and the relative quantity of syrup remaining
in the bag after the
fifteen minute period of the test. The initial weight of the syrup was
approximately 25 pounds.
The final weight of the syrup after the fifteen minute test is tabulated
below.
Test Run Competitive Container Container Produced In Container Produced In
Number Weight After Test Accordance With The Accordance With The
Present Invention (Spout Present Invention
of Figure 6a) (Spout having a flat
planar bottom)
Test 1 6.44 pounds .10 pounds .08 pounds
Test 2 15.84 pounds .08 pounds .10 pounds
Test 3 4.62 pounds .10 pounds .10 pounds
Test 4 6.04 pounds .08 pounds .08 pounds
[0074] As can be seen from the data, the container of the present invention
consistently
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removed a substantially greater amount of fluid from within the container. In
particular, while
substantially all of the syrup was removed from the container made in
accordance with the
present invention, the flow was essentially choked off during evacuation of
the comparative
container. In many instances several pounds of the syrup remained in the
comparative container
after the fifteen minute time limit expired. The container produced in
accordance with the present
invention substantially consistently removed a vast majority of the syrup from
within the
container.
[0075] The foregoing description merely explains and illustrates the invention
and the
invention is not limited thereto except insofar as the appended claims are so
limited, as those
skilled in the art who have the disclosure before them will be able to make
modifications without
departing from the scope of the invention.
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