EP2117990B1 - Container arrangement - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a container arrangement for gaseous liquids, preferably for drinks, comprising a casing or casing and a method for transporting and dispensing gas-containing liquids into and out of the pressure-resistant collapsible casing and a casing.

Soft-walled liquid containers made of different materials and in different forms are widely used. The term soft-walled is to be understood as meaning all container materials by which no rigidly defined shape is predetermined, such as, for example, plastic films, flexible composite materials or fabrics. Compared to hard-walled containers, they have the advantage that they are intended for single use only and are disposed of or recycled after use. This eliminates the cost of repatriation and cleaning of the containers.

However, the widely spread flexible plastic bags for the packaging of liquids and other products have the disadvantage that they are for the storage and transport of pressurized products, such as liquids containing C02, such as beer or mineral water, are not suitable. Even a slight internal pressure expands the bag or even lets it burst.

Further, a container in which the internal pressure is lost by yielding its flexible outer wall upon removal of the product, in particular for gas-containing liquids unsuitable, as for uniform output and full emptying of the container, a constant internal pressure is needed.

For the storage and transport of liquids containing a gas such as CO ₂ , such as beer or mineral water, hitherto preferably hard-walled containers in use. In particular, for large quantities are in beverage suppliers the usual, with the term "keg" or "keg barrel" designated container made of stainless steel or plastic, such as PET, in use.

Stainless steel drums are used, in particular, for their mechanical robustness, since the pressure built up in the container by the CO ₂ content of the product can exceed 6 bar and must be absorbed by the container. The amount of pressure build-up depends on the CO ₂ content itself, the temperature and the agitation (shaking) of the product. The inclusion of such a high pressure is not guaranteed in the known soft-walled containers. On the other hand, the internal pressure for the tapping of individual amounts of the liquid is necessary and is usually kept constant by additional pressurization, high.

Another disadvantage of the "keg drums" is that, for example, the prices of steel have risen enormously in recent years, which of course also reflected in the prices for a "keg barrel". In addition, steel is relatively heavy, especially in comparison to plastic, so that, for example, an empty 20 liter "keg barrel" already has about 5kg dead weight.

Furthermore, since the drinks are conveyed from a "keg keg" by means of carbon dioxide, the CO ₂ as the pumped medium in direct contact with the drink, which leads to a few days to a carbonization of the drink and thus adversely affect the quality of the drink particularly negative.

Since the "keg barrels" in the full and deflated state have the same external dimensions, they take an unnecessarily large volume, especially for the return transport for recycling, which is why the storage and transport of the barrels is very complicated and expensive.

Furthermore, a high level of chemicals and energy is required to clean and reuse the "keg barrels" used for reuse.

The publication US-B-6,375,048 discloses a container arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1.

Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to provide a container assembly for gaseous liquids which is simple in construction and manufacture as well as easy to fill, transport, empty and dispose of or recycle.

This object is protected by the features of the independent claims. The dependent claims further form the central idea of the invention in a particularly advantageous manner.

According to the invention, the container arrangement for gaseous liquids on an enclosure of a pressure-resistant collapsible material. The enclosure encloses at least two chambers, wherein the first chamber is used for receiving and dispensing the gas-containing liquid via a first port, and the second chamber is a pressure chamber, which is provided with a second connection for pressurizing. Between the first chamber and the second chamber, a flexible wall is arranged. The first chamber and the second chamber are arranged side by side in the enclosure. The first chamber and the second chamber are formed from a single bag or container, the wall being integral with the bag between the chambers. The flameproof enclosure completely surrounds the bag or container. The wall is disposed in the enclosure such that it separates the enclosure into the first chamber and the second chamber.

The fact that the two chambers are enclosed by a pressure-resistant collapsible sheath, no or only a small volume expansion of, for example, 1 to 3% is given overall. By pressurizing the second chamber via the second port, the first chamber is placed under a pressure required for the pin or emptying of the gaseous liquid from the first port due to the flexible wall disposed between the chambers and the volume of the first chamber thus diminished entieerungsbedingl running , Since the pressure generated in the second chamber is absorbed by the pressure-resistant envelope, it is inevitably passed over the flexible wall to the first container and sets the liquid therein under the required output pressure, so that the gas-containing liquid with the first open Connection with constant pressure due to the pressurization and volume expansion of the second chamber and the consequent volume reduction of the first chamber can be removed.

It is thus possible to fill gaseous liquids, such as in particular carbon dioxide-containing beverages, in a flexible pressure-resistant and collapsible disposable packaging. Due to the construction of the container assembly, it is also possible to empty them almost without residue, as by the second chamber with sustained pressurization continuously over the wall a pressure on the first chamber is applied until the second chamber occupies the total volume of the envelope and thus the the first chamber reduced to a minimum. Thus, no or, compared to known container arrangements, only little product loss takes place during emptying of the container arrangement.

The container assembly also has a much lower weight than barrels (eg, about 90% lighter than comparable "keg barrels" or wooden barrels), which are used for comparable amounts of liquid. In addition, there are no cleaning, repatriation and additional storage costs, since the container assembly can be easily disposed of or recycled. Thus, the container assembly is also environmentally friendly, because it requires neither the use of chemical cleaning agents, nor energy has to be spent on transport and storage and also this bag can be recycled in an ecological way or disposed of in another environmentally friendly way, for example, be incinerated environmentally friendly , Furthermore, the container arrangement dispenses with the use of steel, so that it can also be produced relatively inexpensively and with low energy at least partially by means of methods already known and on already existing machines.

In addition, such a container arrangement is very flat and space-saving, especially in the empty state, especially in comparison to barrels that occupy the same volume of space both in the full and in the empty state. The storage volume can thus be reduced by about twenty times, for example, so that further storage costs can be saved considerably. In addition, the container assembly of the present invention, being relatively light and small, is also much easier to handle.

It is also advantageous that no demands, in particular with regard to hygiene, are placed on the conveying medium which is directed to pressurize the second chamber, since the conveying medium is spatially separated into one of the gas-containing liquid (by means of the wall or a membrane) Chamber is introduced. Thus, for example, in addition to CO ₂ and compressed air or (line) water can be used to pressurize. However, the use of a food-safe pumped medium is not required.

But even when using CO ₂ as a pumped medium, since it does not come into direct contact with the gas-containing liquid, this also does not lead to a carburization of the liquid, which in turn has a positive effect on the quality of the product and its durability. The natural gas content (for example CO ₂ content) of the product is retained even after the first removal of the product from the container arrangement, whereby the product properties, such as the taste, remain unchanged.

The wall is advantageously formed from the adjacent wall portions of the first and second chambers.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the container arrangement preferably has a pillow shape and further preferably handles. The container assembly may also have any other shape, such as a cylindrical shape or cubic shape.

The configuration of the container arrangement as a bag, in particular in pillow form, makes it possible to handle the container arrangement easily. Furthermore, it is thus possible to easily transport the container assembly, as it can be loaded in pillow form, for example, simply on Euro pallets, either with appropriate frames or by means of a packaging, such as a lightweight cardboard packaging, which can be stacked well.

An important aspect of the invention is the pressure-resistant, flexible, or only slightly expandable sheathing or sheathing which is used in the container arrangement according to the invention. The sheath, in one embodiment, consists of a foil reinforced by mineral or synthetic fibers in the longitudinal or transverse direction or in the longitudinal and transverse directions, or consists of a fabric made of or reinforced by synthetic or mineral fibers.

In principle, this pressure-resistant, flexible, or only slightly stretchable casing can in principle surround all soft-walled, non-pressure-resistant bags or containers, such as the product bags or pressure bags according to the invention, such that they become pressure-resistant.

This has the advantage that these soft-walled bags or containers, for example, for the storage and transport of gaseous liquids that contain, for example, CO ₂ , such as beer or mineral water, and therefore must be pressure-resistant, can be used.

Further, as already explained above, the sheath may preferably be a separate or integral part of the bag or container thus made pressure-tight.

Particularly preferably, the sheath is joined together by means of self-adhesive film or self-adhesive fabric or by gluing or welding.

It is also preferably possible to optimize the fiber reinforcement of the film or the construction or reinforcement of the fabric by specifically locally adjusting the fiber density per unit area. In this way, further, the cost and weight of the container assembly can be reduced.

It is possible with such a sheath formed to receive the high tensile forces generated by the internal pressure of a gas-containing liquid. Furthermore, the sheath is also flexible to the geometric shape of the inner bag or to adjust product and / or pressure bag.

Fig. 1

eine schematische Darstellung einer leeren Behälteranordnung gemäß einer bekannten Anordnung,

Fig. 2

die Behälteranordnung gemäß Fig. 1 während der Befüllung,

Fig. 3

die Behälteranordnung gemäß Fig. 1 im vollen Zustand,

Fig. 4

die Behälteranordnung gemäß Fig. 1 während der Entleerung,

Fig. 5-7

schematische Darstellungen von verschiedenen Ausgestaltungsformen einer Behälteranordnung gemäß einer Ausführungsform,

Fig. 8-12

schematische Darstellungen verschiedener Behälter- und Anschlussformen,

Fig. 13

eine Anordnung von mehreren parallel geschalteten Behälteranordnungen,

Fig. 14a-14c

eine schematische Darstellung einer Ummantelung aus isotroper, faserverstärkter Kunststofffolie mit selbstklebender Verbindung oder Verbindung durch Leim,

Fig. 15a-15b

eine schematische Darstellung einer Ummantelung bestehend aus zwei einzelnen, rohrförmigen Teilen aus isotoper Kunststofffolie umgeben mit einer Schrumpffolie oder einer verschweißten Schutzfolie,

Fig. 16a-16d

eine schematische Darstellung einer Ummantelung aus Fasergewebe,

Fig. 17a-17b

Darstellung verschiedener Möglichkeiten des Zusammenfügens der Ummantelung mittels selbstklebender faserverstärktter Folie oder Fasergewebe oder mittels an den Klebestellen aufgetragenen Leims oder Schweißung,

Fig. 18a-18b

Darstellung verschiedener Möglichkeiten des Zusammenfügens der Ummantelung mittels Klebstoff oder Schweißung,

Fig. 19a-19o

Verfahren zum Zusammenfügen eines erfindungsgemäßen Beutels.

Further features, advantages and features of the invention will now be explained with reference to embodiments and the figures of the accompanying drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

a schematic representation of an empty container assembly according to a known arrangement,

Fig. 2

the container assembly according to Fig. 1 during filling,

Fig. 3

the container assembly according to Fig. 1 in full condition,

Fig. 4

the container assembly according to Fig. 1 during emptying,

Fig. 5-7

schematic representations of various embodiments of a container assembly according to an embodiment,

Fig. 8-12

schematic representations of various container and connection forms,

Fig. 13

an arrangement of a plurality of container arrangements connected in parallel,

Fig. 14a-14c

a schematic representation of a jacket of isotropic, fiber-reinforced plastic film with self-adhesive compound or compound by glue,

Fig. 15a-15b

a schematic representation of a casing consisting of two individual, tubular parts of isotopic plastic film surrounded with a shrink film or a welded protective film,

Fig. 16a-16d

a schematic representation of a sheath made of fiber fabric,

Fig. 17a-17b

Presentation of various possibilities of assembling the sheathing by means of self-adhesive fiber-reinforced foil or fiber fabric or by means of glue or welding applied to the splices,

Fig. 18a-18b

Presentation of various possibilities of joining the sheathing by means of adhesive or welding,

Fig. 19a-19o

Method for assembling a bag according to the invention.

Fig. 1 shows a known container assembly 1. This container assembly 1 is preferably the receptacle, the Transport and dispensing of liquids, in particular gaseous liquids. The liquids or the product are particularly preferably drinks, for example beer, mineral water or even sparkling wine.

It should be noted at this point that the recording and output of all other conceivable liquids is covered by the invention. These include in particular, but not exclusively, also known as viscous media, such as glue, paint, sauces or the like.

The container arrangement has a casing 2, hereinafter also referred to as casing, which preferably consists of a pressure-resistant collapsible material. The envelope 2 is thus flexible on the one hand, but on the other hand also not or only slightly stretchable, so that they can absorb large pressures from inside between 2 and 10 bar, preferably at least up to 6 bar. With the term pressure-resistant, flexible or only slightly stretchable for the purpose of this description, all sheaths 2 are designated by which no rigidly defined shape is given, ie from tissue, plastic films, flexible composite materials, composite films, self-adhesive films, fiber-reinforced films or other, in particular the materials mentioned in the description with the properties mentioned.

The sheath 2 preferably encloses at least two chambers 3, 4.

The first chamber 3 serves to receive the product to be stored or transported, ie preferably the gas-containing liquid. The chamber 3 is connected by means of a first connection 5, also referred to below as the product connection, to the environment of the container arrangement. The product connection 5 is preferably formed with a check valve or other, for example, in dispensing valves usual. By means of the connection 5, it is possible to fill the product into the first chamber, and the product can also be discharged from the first chamber 3 again via the product connection 5.

The second chamber 4 is a pressure chamber, which is preferably provided with a second connection 6 for pressurizing. The second chamber 4 serves to receive a pressurized pumped medium via a connection 6, also referred to below as the pressure connection. In principle, any fluid is suitable as the medium, for example CO ₂ , compressed air or water. The terminal 6 may be formed, for example, as the first terminal 5.

Between the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4, a flexible wall 7 is preferably arranged.

Like the arrangement in Fig. 1 can be seen, the wall 7 of the container assembly 1 may consist of the shell of an inner product bag 8, wherein the product bag 8 surrounds the first chamber 3. The product bag 8 thus receives the product via the first connection 5, which extends through the enclosure 2. The product bag 8 is preferably flexible and made of a food grade plastic. He does not have to be pressure resistant.

In this example, the envelope 2 is particularly preferably formed of a pressure-resistant outer wall of the second chamber 4 and thus constitutes an outer pressure bag 9. The pressure bag 9 completely surrounds the product bag 8 and encloses it airtight, so that the second chamber 4, the first Chamber 3 completely surrounds. This pressure bag 9 is preferably made of a gas-tight film, which can also absorb the mechanical stress due to the pressure. However, the cover or sheath 2 can also, as is shown in further embodiments, as a separate part surrounding the non-pressure-resistant inner bag or container or may be an integral part of the same. Construction and production of such a film or bag will be described in more detail later in the description.

The advantages of this design are in their simple production, especially the bag, with today usual bag making without major modifications. It is also inexpensive, since only two bags must be made, and in the form of "endless bags" for the currently used bottling plants easily possible. The bags are also preferably made of recyclable and / or environmentally friendly materials so that they can be easily recycled, recycled or disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.

Furthermore, significant cost savings can be achieved in the logistics, since no return transport container arrangements is necessary, since these can be disposed of easily and compactly after use due to their collapsible structure and thus eliminates the need to clean the emptied container.

Another essential advantage of the invention is that there is no contact of the pumped medium with the product, so that the demands on the hygiene of the pumped medium are very low, which allows the use of numerous, even less expensive pumped media, such as water or compressed air. But even with the use of CO ₂ as a pumped medium can not come to a carbonization due to lack of contact with the product. In this way, for example, the natural gas content (for example, CO ₂ content) of the product is maintained even after the first removal of the product from the container arrangement, consequently, as well as the taste and also the quality of the product. In addition, the product, especially in the "pierced" state, thus longer lasting.

In particular, viscous media such as glue, paint or sauce are usually filled into rigid containers and then need to be pumped out of the container for use. This is especially difficult with viscous media or even impossible with media that cure. With the container arrangement according to the invention, the product can be forced out of the container arrangement with any desired delivery medium, for example compressed air be, can be dispensed with the aforementioned pump. On the other hand, since the fluid does not come into contact with the product and also no air or the like. can penetrate the product bag, the product can not cure.

Based on Fig. 1 to 4 will be described below a filling and emptying process of the container assembly 1.

As already described in detail, the container arrangement according to Behälteranordung preferably consists of independent bags 8, 9 or chambers 3, 4. Here, the serves in Fig. 1 still empty product bag 2 receiving the product to be stored or transported via the product connection 5. The pressure bag 1 serves to receive the pressurized fluid through the pressure port 6. For filling the terminals 5, 6 of the container assembly 1 preferably to a corresponding Pressure line or product line connected to a bottling plant.

In order to fully utilize the volume of the first chamber 3 for filling the product, the product bag 8 is preferably vacuum-sealed prior to the filling process. In this way, the residual oxygen present in the product bag 8 can be removed from it completely. The vacuuming can be done on the one hand by sucking the air from the first chamber 3 via the product connection 5. Preferably, the same effect, ie the elimination of the residual oxygen in the product bag 8, also by pressurizing the pressure chamber 4 can be achieved with a defined form. As a result of the overpressure thus achieved in the pressure chamber 4, the product bag 8 is compressed and the remaining residual oxygen is thus pressed out of it. Then you can start with the filling process described below.

In Fig. 2 a filling operation of the container assembly 1 is shown. The container assembly 1 can be filled with conventional filling systems. This as well as the preceding and subsequent steps can preferably also be partially or fully automated in order to be able to provide numerous container arrangements 1 in a short time.

During the illustrated filling process, the product bag 8 is filled with the product via the product connection 5 and thus expands within the pressure-resistant casing 2. Due to the volume expansion of the product bag 8 or the first chamber 3, an existing gas volume or fluid volume in the pressure bag 1 due to the reduction in volume in the second chamber 4 is vented or vented via the pressure port 6.

Advantageously, the filling of the container assembly 1, that is, the filling of the product bag 8 against a certain back pressure, which is preferably caused by pressurization in the pressure bag 9. In this way, foaming during the filling process can be prevented. The pressure required for this is preferably about 2.5bar, but is not limited to this.

After the product bag 8, as in Fig. 3 shown, is completely filled with the product, the terminals 5, 6 are preferably separated from the lines of the filling system and at least the product bag 8 sealed at the product connection 5. This can preferably be done by an existing check valve or by using a simple pin, a pin with permanently connected hose, a tap or other valve or closure. The filled container arrangement can then be stored and transported with or without outer packaging. An overpressure, possibly caused by the gas-containing product during storage and transport, is absorbed by the construction of the container arrangement 1. In this case, the outer pressure bag 9, which is formed by the sheath 2, acts as a pressure jacket.

In Fig. 4 the emptying of the container assembly 1 is shown. Thereafter, the product connection 5 of the first chamber 3 is connected to a product line of a dispensing system or dispensing system. The pressure port 6 of the second chamber 4 is connected to a pressure system, such as a compressor, a gas cylinder or a water pipe. The container assembly can be connected, for example, existing dispensing systems without further or significant modifications, whereby the container assembly 1 almost unlimited in the catering industry, but also in private use, can be used in a conventional manner.

In order to ensure sufficient cooling of the product, the container assembly 1 may preferably be placed in a cold room or in a special cool box. This can in turn be done with or without repackaging. It is also conceivable that the container assembly 1 is connected to a flow cooler in a known manner. After the product connection 5 and the pressure connection 6 are therefore connected to a dispensing system as described above (optionally in a cold room / box or with an intermediate throughflow cooler), the container arrangement 1 is ready for emptying.

For this purpose, the pressure bag 9 is acted upon by a pressure, the so-called delivery pressure, via the second port 6. This can be generated by a fluid medium, such as a gas, for example CO ₂ or compressed air, or a liquid, for example water. Due to this pressurization, a pressure on the product bag 2 via the wall 7, so the shell of the product bag 8, exerted. The product bag 8 consequently empties through the product connection 5. It is likewise possible to apply a mechanical pressure to the product bag 8 for emptying.

The delivery pressure is in dispensing systems, for example, about 2 to 3bar, which in the container assembly 1 by a special pressure jacket or -umhüllung the or the inner bag (s) erect. The special film used for this, which is also pressure-resistant, has a minimum or no elongation and in addition flexible and collapsible, and their preparation will be described in detail later in the description.

After the container assembly 1 is empty, it is replaced, crumpled up and disposed of or recycled. This is possible because the container arrangement has a significantly lower weight than comparable conventional barrels. Due to the possibility of disposing of the container arrangement in a space-saving manner on site, costs for the return transport of a container arrangement and possibly further unnecessary storage costs are also avoided. In addition, cleaning costs and the use of chemical cleaning agents are avoided, so that the container assembly, even by the lower transport and thus energy consumption, much more environmentally friendly than the previously known barrels or container assemblies. This is further promoted by the fact that in the manufacture of the container assembly 1 is largely or completely dispensed steel. The container assembly 1 is thus cheaper and less expensive to produce and also by their lower weight compared to conventional barrels, also easier to handle. Moreover, the container assembly can also be easily recycled.

In the Fig. 5 to 7 are further shown various embodiments of a container assembly according to an embodiment in which the chambers 13, 14 do not enclose, but are preferably arranged side by side.

At the in Fig. 5 As shown in the first embodiment, the chambers 13, 14 of the container assembly 10 are formed of two independent bags 18, 19, which are surrounded by a pressure-resistant casing or sheath 12. The bags 18, 19 are disposed in the enclosure such that the wall 17 is formed of adjacent wall portions of the first chamber 13 and the second chamber 14. The product bag 18 has a product port 15 and the pressure bag 19 has a pressure port 16, like the ports 5, 6 of the first embodiment.

In this construction, two common, preferably identical, bags can be used as product bag 18 and pressure bag 19. The bags 18, 19 are preferably flexible and at least the product bag 18 is made of a food grade plastic. The bags 18, 19 need not be pressure resistant.

Preferably, the bags 18, 19 in the filled state in each case completely fill the inner volume of the envelope 12. In this way it is ensured that, on the one hand, the product container 18 can receive the maximum volume of the container arrangement 10 during filling. On the other hand, the pressure bag 19 during emptying also fill the maximum internal volume of the envelope, so that a complete emptying of the product bag 18 and the product chamber 13 can be ensured.

The surrounding pressure jacket 12 may preferably consist of a plastic film, flexible composite film, fabric, or the like. Particularly preferably, the pressure jacket has fiber-reinforced films in order to absorb and absorb the mechanical pressure load particularly effectively. The pressure jacket 12 may also be gas-tight. On the materials of both the Druckummantelung and the bag will be discussed below the description.

At the in Fig. 6 shown second embodiment of a container assembly 20, the product bag 28 and the pressure bag 29 are preferably formed from a single, soft-walled pressure vessel or bag 21, or combined into a single bag 21 with two chambers 23, 24. The wall 27 is formed integrally with the bag 21 between the chambers 23, 24 and represents the separation area between the two chambers 23, 24. The bag 21 is surrounded by a pressure-resistant envelope or sheath 22. Pouches 28, 29 and sheath 22 have the same materials and properties as the pouches 18, 19 and sheath 12 of the first embodiment. Likewise, they each have a corresponding connection 25, 26.

Preferably, the chambers 23, 24 each have at least the same internal volume as the casing 22, on the one hand, as already explained above, to make maximum use of the filling volume of the container assembly 20 and on the other hand to ensure complete emptying of the product bag 28 and the product chamber 23. It is also conceivable that the chambers 23, 24 in the empty state is slightly smaller than the sheath 22 are formed, and the chambers 23, 24 expand in the filled state so that they each adapt to the casing 22 in shape and size.

An in Fig. 7 shown embodiment of a container assembly 30 consists of a in the middle by a wall or film 37 into two chambers 33, 34 divided bag 31. The bag 31 thus forms the pressure-resistant enclosure 32, so that consequently the wall 37 is arranged in the enclosure 32 in that it separates the enclosure 32 into the first chamber 33 and the second chamber 34. The bag 31, or the envelope 32, on the outside consists of a gas-tight, pressure-resistant film, as well as the envelope 2 of the first embodiment, and is therefore pressure-resistant in itself. The film 37 is preferably flexible and made of a food safe plastic. It does not have to be pressure-resistant, but preferably gas-tight.

This bag 32 can be made easily and inexpensively, for example, in one operation of three film layers. This can be done, at least in part, preferably even by means of already known methods and on already existing machines. The production of endless bags for today common filling systems is easily possible. This will be described in more detail below.

In the FIGS. 8 to 11 Various preferred container shapes and various preferred connection forms of a container arrangement according to the invention are shown. In the figures are always shown: above a plan view of the container assembly, including a frontal view of this and left next to it a side view of the container assembly. Identical features are provided in the figures with the same reference numerals, and reference is made to the above statements with respect to these features. The shape of the bag is, beyond the preferred examples shown, largely freely selectable.

Fig. 8 shows a container assembly 40 according to the third embodiment of the second embodiment, which has a cushion shape. Such a container shape makes it easy to store and transport the container assembly, as it can be loaded in pillow form, for example, simply on Euro pallets, either with appropriate frames or by means of a lightweight outer packaging, such as a carton box that can be stacked well can be.

• Fig. 9 zeigt eine Behälteranordnung 50 ebenfalls in Kissenform gemäß der zweiten Ausgestaltungsform der ersten Ausführungsform.
• Fig. 10 zeigt eine Behälteranordnung 60 gemäß der ersten Ausführungsform, welche ebenfalls eine Kissenform mit Handgriffen H aufweist.
• Fig. 11 zeigt eine Behälteranordnung 70 gemäß der ersten Ausführungsform, welche eine Zylinderform und ebenfalls Handgriffe H aufweist.

The container arrangement in the form of a pillow can thus also be handled well, which can be further improved by handles H that are preferably integrally formed in the container arrangement. For example, a container assembly which holds 20 liters, weighs about 5 kg less in the filled or filled state, as a comparable "keg barrel" and also has a, in comparison to steel, soft body, so that the handling and the Comfort of handling is significantly improved. It is also conceivable, for example, that the outer packaging is designed such that the handles H are tangible from the outside to improve the handling of packaged container arrangements yet.

• Fig. 9 shows a container assembly 50 also in pillow form according to the second embodiment of the first embodiment.
• Fig. 10 shows a container assembly 60 according to the first embodiment, which also has a pillow shape with handles H.
• Fig. 11 shows a container assembly 70 according to the first embodiment, which has a cylindrical shape and also handles H.

In Fig. 12 a container assembly 80 is also shown according to the first embodiment, which has a cubic shape.

For these embodiments, the ports, that is, the product port and the pressure port, may be for product chamber and pressure chamber, respectively, as in FIG Fig. 8 or 9 shown, separate (product port 45, 55, pressure port 46, 56) or, as in Fig. 10 shown to be formed in a combined form as a combination port 61 with integrated product port 65 and pressure port 66.

In addition, the container assembly according to the invention can be made in different sizes. For example, with a content of 5 liters for the private Use be carried out instead of the known so-called party tins, or else in the usual for "keg barrels" sizes of 15, 20, 25, 30 or 50 liters. However, the invention is not limited to the above sizes, so that the content can be fixed.

On the one hand, however, to improve the handling, transport and storage of the container assembly or simplify and on the other hand to increase the amount of available product as desired, for example, a plurality of container assemblies can be interconnected, ie connected in parallel. This is schematically in Fig. 13 shown. For this purpose, the pressure connections of the container arrangements 90 to be switched in parallel are connected to a pressure line 91. On the other hand, the product ports of said container assemblies 90 are connected to a product line 92. In this way any number of container arrangements can be connected in parallel.

Moreover, it is also conceivable that a plurality of container arrangements are each connected independently to a separate pressure line, but to the same product line. Furthermore, it is also possible for a plurality of container arrangements to be connected to a pressure line but in each case individually or in groups to a plurality of product lines. The connection options are not limited according to the invention.

In order to obtain at all a pressure-resistant collapsible container arrangement 1, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 or sheathing or casing 2, 12, 22, 32, it requires certain Materials and methods of preparation, which are described below.

In the Fig. 14a The arrangement shown preferably consists of at least two substantially rectangular fiber-reinforced, isotropic films 101, 102, from which the sheath 100 is formed. The films 101, 102 are preferably self-adhesive films on one side or films which are glued by applying glue. The films 101, 102 are preferably arranged at a cross, particularly preferably at a substantially right angle to one another, so that the two films 101, 102 form an overlapping region 103. In this case, the fiber direction of the films 101, 102 preferably likewise runs at a right angle to one another in order to achieve a particularly high fiber reinforcement of the finished casing 100.

The regions 104, 105, 106, 107 of the films 101, 102 projecting upwards and downwards and to the right and left of the overlapping region 103 are preferably designed such that the at least one projecting region 104, 106 of each film has the shape and surface dimensions of the overlapping region 103 has.

On the overlapping region 103 of the product bag 108 is placed with connection 109, which preferably represents a non-pressure-resistant inner bag, as described in detail in the above embodiments. Moreover, when using a product bag 108 with combined port 109, there is no need for another port for the pressure bag, in this case the wrapping will be used. Otherwise, at least one of the films may also have a corresponding pressure connection.

In order to achieve a securely sealed enclosure 100, as shown in FIG Fig. 14b illustrated, first the overhanging portions 104, 105 of a film 101 so folded over the overlapping region 103 that the product bag 108 is surrounded by the film 101. At first, the overhanging portion 104 having the shape and surface area of the overlapping portion 103 is folded, and the second overlapping portion 105 of the same sheet 101 is then laid on the already folded portion 104. The same procedure is followed with the other film 102. Due to the self-adhesive properties of the films 101, 102 or of the glue used, the respectively overlapping regions of the films 101, 102 adhere securely to each other, so that a pressure-resistant collapsible casing 100 (such as, for example, the aforementioned casings 2, 12, 22, 32) arises, in which the product bag 108 is securely arranged. Due to the fact that one film 101 encloses the non-pressure-resistant inner bag 108 in the longitudinal direction and the other film 102 encloses the non-pressure-resistant inner bag 108 in the transverse direction, the resulting casing 100 has a particularly high resistance to pressure, so that it is in the container arrangement according to the invention can safely absorb occurring pressures.

In order to ensure beyond a certain movement and expansion of the inner bag 108 or product bag, can the areas or regions 103, 104 of the films 101, 102, with which the product bag 108 is in contact, are not self-adhesive or not provided with glue.

In order for the connection 109 of the product bag 108 to be accessible from outside, openings 110, 111 for passing through the connection 109 are preferably provided at corresponding locations in the films 101, 102 of the casing 100.

As Fig. 14c shows, the sheath 100 may optionally be surrounded on the outside with a film 112, such as a shrink film or a welded at the edges of protective film. As a result, the friction is increased at the self-adhesive or glued joints and thus achieved a higher strength of the compound.

Figs. 15a and 15b show a second embodiment of a sheath 200. The sheath 200 here preferably consists of two independent tubes 201, 202. The tubes are preferably made of fiber-reinforced, isotropic films.

First, a first tube piece 201 is preferably slipped longitudinally over a non-pressure-resistant inner bag 208 or product bag with connection 209 ( Fig. 15a ). Thereafter, a second tube piece 202 is preferably slipped over the non-pressure-resistant inner bag 208 and the first tube piece 202 ( Fig. 15b ). By preferably substantially perpendicularly interleaved pipe sections 201, 202, these close themselves, and the inner bag 208 is also made pressure resistant. The Compressive strength is thus given both in the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction.

In order for the connection 209 of the product bag 208 to be accessible from the outside, openings 210 for carrying out the connection 209 are preferably provided at corresponding locations in the tube sections 201, 202 of the casing 200.

The construction may also preferably be provided with a foil 212, such as a shrink film or a protective foil welded to the edges, that is to be enveloped, in order to achieve a certain dimensional stability of the bag. Also, this increases the friction at the joints of the pipe sections and thus achieves a higher strength of the connection.

Fig. 16a to 16d show a sheath 300 of fiber fabric. The casing 300 preferably consists of two individual partial surfaces, a rear-side part 301 and the front-side part 302. The front-side part 302 preferably has essentially a base area which corresponds to that of a product bag 308 ( Fig. 16b ). The rear part 301 preferably has at least the base area of the product bag 308 and, in addition, still on the side edges projecting portions 304, 305, 306, 307 on ( Fig. 16a ).

As Fig. 16c can be seen, the non-pressure-resistant inner bag 308 or product bag is preferably from the back Part 301 and the front part 302 of the casing 300 enclosed. The front-side part 302 and the rear-side part 301 of the woven sheath 300 are preferably placed on top of each other in such a way that they enclose the product bag 308 between them (FIG. Fig. 16c ). Subsequently, the protruding areas 304, 305, 306, 307 of the rear part 301, which preferably form splices, are folded over onto the front-side part 302 and adhesively bonded thereto (FIG. Fig. 16d ). This can be done by welding, by applying glue or by means of self-adhesive tissue.

At least one of the parts 302 of the casing 300 preferably has an opening 310 for passing through the connection 309 of the product bag 308, as already described above.

Preferably, the areas of the sheath 300 that are in contact with the product bag 308 are not provided with glue or have self-adhesive properties to ensure some movement and expansion of the product bag 308.

In the following, principal possibilities of assembling the sheath are shown. In Figs. 17a and 17b Examples of the assembly by means of self-adhesive films are shown while in the Figures 18a and 18b Examples of the assembly of films by means of glue or welding are shown.

Fig. 17a shows the joining by means of self-adhesive, fiber-reinforced film or self-adhesive fabric 401. For this purpose, the film 401, as well as in Figs. 14a and 14b shown, preferably each turned over from two sides, so that the turned-over portions 401a, 401b overlap. Due to the self-adhesive properties of the film 401, a splice 402 is inevitably formed at the overlapping regions 401a, 401b, so that the casing is securely joined together. The surface of the splice 402 depends on the occurring maximum tensile forces.

Fig. 17b shows the assembly of the sheath by means of a self-adhesive fiber-reinforced film or a fabric 411 and another self-adhesive film piece or piece of fabric 412. This piece of film or fabric piece 412 is arranged so that its self-adhesive point is joined to the self-adhesive portion of the film 411. For this purpose, the film pieces 412 with its self-adhesive point is preferably arranged away from the film 411, and the self-adhesive sites of the film 411 are folded so that they come into contact with the self-adhesive sites of the film piece 412 and each form a splice 413a, 413b. This gives the advantage of a solid better adhesive bond at the splice 413a, 413b.

Fig. 18a shows the joining of a fiber-reinforced film or the fabric 501 by means of an adhesive or a weld at the splice 502. The structure is with the Fig. 17a comparable, except that instead of self-adhesive A glue or adhesive is used or the overlapping areas 501 a, 501 b of the film 501 are welded.

Fig. 18b shows the connection of the sheath consisting of two pieces of foil or two pieces of fabric 511, 512. The structure of the sheath substantially corresponds to that Fig. 17b , with the difference that the fiber-reinforced film piece or piece of fabric 511 is connected to the second piece of film or fabric 512 by means of an adhesive or a weld at the splice 513a, 513b.

The connection of the surfaces is thus preferably done by wide-area bonding by means of glue or self-adhesive surface or by welding. However, the required minimum adhesive surface or welding surface depends on the desired compressive strength and the associated maximum tensile forces and the position of the joint and the quality of the connection.

The following will, with reference to the Fig. 19a to 19o , a method for assembling a container assembly according to the invention will be described.

For the production of the pressure bag, so the sheathing or casing, any pressure-resistant film can be used, which will be described in more detail below. As in Fig. 19a Thus, for example, a self-adhesive film 600 consisting of a fiber-reinforced film 601 and an adhesive layer 602, which is preferably shown is arranged on only one side of the fiber-reinforced film 601, for the production of the pressure bag, so the sheath used.

In a first step, this film 600, with the adhesive layer 602 preferably directed outwards, is preferably applied to a drum-shaped body 610 (FIG. Fig. 19a ). In this case, the film 600 is held, for example, on a holding region 611 of the drum 610, preferably by means of vacuum. But it is also any other form of support, for example, a mechanical support, conceivable.

By rotating the drum 610, the film is then wrapped longitudinally around the drum-shaped body 610 with the adhesive layer 602 facing outward ( Fig. 19b ). The self-adhesive sheet 600 is wound around the drum-shaped body 610 so far that the end portions of the sheet 601 at least partially overlap. Due to the adhesive layer 602, the overlapping regions of the film 601 thus adhere to each other, so that the self-adhesive film 600 is tubular ( Fig. 19c ).

In a second step, with reference to Fig. 19c and 19d , the drum-shaped body 610 removed, so for example pulled out of the tubular film 600. Since the adhesive layer 602 of the film 600 is preferably directed outwardly only, the film 600 does not adhere to the drum-shaped body 610.

A rectangular body 620 is then inserted into the hollow body of the film 600, for example, so that the rectangular body 620 is preferably arranged over at least the entire length of the tubular self-adhesive film 600 ( Fig. 19d ). If the rectangular body 620 is arranged in the film 600, it is preferably expanded in width ( Fig. 19e ) that the film 600 is made into a rectangular shape by the tube shape ( Fig. 19f ). It should be noted at this point that the body 620 can also have any other, arbitrary shape, depending on which shape the pressure bag or the sheath should have. For this purpose, corresponding differently shaped body must then be used for forming the film 600.

For example, to create a rectangular pressure bag 600, as an alternative to the steps in FIGS Fig. 19a to 19f also the following steps in the Fig. 19g to 19i be performed.

For this purpose, instead of a drum-shaped body, a rectangular body 630 is used. The film 600, with the adhesive layer 602 preferably directed outwards, is applied to the latter, likewise being held by vacuum for example on a holding region 631 of the body 630 (FIG. Fig. 19g ).

By rotating the rectangular body 630, the film 600 is then wrapped longitudinally around the rectangular body 630 with the adhesive layer 602 facing outward ( Fig. 19h ). The self-adhesive film 600 is as comparable already described above, wrapped around the rectangular body 630 that the end portions of the film 601 at least partially overlap, so that due to the adhesive layer 602, the overlapping portions of the film 601 to each other. In this way, without further intermediate steps, the desired rectangular shape of the pressure bag ( Fig. 19i ). It should also be noted here that the body 630 may have any other arbitrary shape, depending on which shape of the pressure-resistant jacket of the container assembly is desired.

Regardless of which of the aforementioned method steps has been carried out, the film according to the example shown now has a rectangular shape. For stabilization and shaping, the rectangular body 620, 630 preferably remains arranged in the foil 600.

According to Fig. 19j In a next step, a further self-adhesive film 605, also comprising a fiber-reinforced film 606 and an adhesive layer 607, is attached with the adhesive layer 606 or adhesive side up on one side, for example a bottom side of the film 600 in the transverse direction. In this way, the fibers of the fiber-reinforced films 601, 606 are preferably aligned substantially perpendicular to each other, so that the compressive strength of the container assembly in all directions is substantially uniformly distributed and as large as possible.

Fig. 19k shows a rotated by 90 ° horizontally view of the arrangement described above. It can be seen that the In the course of the process, regions 608, 609 of the second film 605 still to be folded over project beyond the underside of the rectangularly shaped first film 600 on both sides. On the upper side, that is to say the side of the first film 600 opposite the second film 605, a connecting piece 603 is also preferably made of self-adhesive film with the adhesive side facing upwards, ie away from the first film 600.

Furthermore, the adhesive layer 607 of a first fold-over region 608 of the second film 605 is covered by a non-adhesive cover 604, for example a non-adhesive film or paper. Also, with a non-adhesive cover 604, an upper portion of the first sheet 600 and the connector 603 is covered toward a side of the first foldable portion 608. In this way, inadvertent adhesion and soiling of the adhesive layers 602, 607 in the further steps, in which these areas are exposed to the outside, prevented.

Furthermore, how Fig. 19l shows, the second fold over area 609, which is not provided with a non-adhesive film, folded over so that the second film 605, or the second portions 609, with its / its adhesive layer 607 on the adhesive layer 602 of the first film 600 on the Top and the connector 603, which are not provided with the non-adhesive cover 604, is arranged. In this way, a first open end of the first film 600 is simultaneously closed.

In this arrangement or sheathing 640 then preferably holes, so bushings 641, 642 for connections of an inner bag, punched into the films 600, 605 accordingly. The rectangular body 620, 630 can simultaneously serve as a die for the punching tools S. It should be noted that the holes can also be punched in another method step or even the films 600, 605 are provided with holes during their production.

After the holes, that is, the passages 641, 642, are punched, the rectangular body 620, 630 is removed from the pressure jacket 640 (FIG. Fig. 19m ). For this purpose, it is preferably pulled out of the remaining second opening of the casing 640. Since the first area 608 of the second film 605 is provided with the non-adhesive cover 604, adhesion of the rectangular body 620, 630 to the first area 608 is avoided in this step.

Into the hollow and to one side open pressure jacket 640 is or are then preferably introduced through the opening of the inner bag or 650 (depending on the embodiment). According to Fig. 19n For example, such an inner bag 650 has a product bag 651 and a pressure bag 652. The product bag 651 further preferably has a product port 653, whereas the pressure bag 652 preferably has a pressure port 654.

The bags 651, 652 are preferably connected to one another by a connecting region 655 on each side. This connecting region 655 preferably serves as an insertion aid for an insertion tool W for inserting the inner bag 650. For this purpose, the tool W preferably engages behind the connecting region 655 and pushes it into the casing. In this case, the product bag 651 and the pressure bag 652 preferably fold against the tool W counter to the direction of insertion and can thus be easily inserted into the casing 640. Subsequently, the tool W moves out of the casing 640 again.

As Fig. 19o 2, the inner bag 650 is inserted into the pressure jacket 640 such that the terminals 653, 654 of the bags 651, 652 are inserted through and protrude from the bushings 641, 642 punched in the foils 600, 605 so that they protrude from are accessible outside.

In a final step will be, as well Fig. 19o shows the non-adhesive covers 604 from the films 600, 605 and the connector 603. Then, the first region 608 of the second film 605 is folded over in such a way that its adhesive layer 607 is arranged on the not yet covered adhesive layer 602 of the first film 600 on its upper side and the connecting piece 603. In this way, the pressure jacket 640 is completely closed and completely surrounds the inner bag 650. By the adhesive layers 602, 607 adhering to one another and the fibers of the fiber-reinforced films 600, 605 arranged transversely to each other, a pressure-resistant sheath which is highly resilient is produced 640 for the non-pressure-resistant inner bag 650 of the container arrangement according to the invention.

The advantages of the aforementioned method for producing a container arrangement according to the invention are firstly that the pressure envelope or pressure jacket is assembled so that the entire outer skin adhesive layer is joined together on adhesive layer. In all places where large tensile forces occur, adhesive surface are thus joined together on adhesive surface and / or there is a good connection due to high friction. As a result, a high pressure resistance of the container arrangement is ensured in order to securely absorb the pressures occurring in the container arrangement. This is further promoted by the transversely aligned fibers of the fiber reinforced films.

On the other hand, a bag made in this way is dimensionally stable and does not have to be surrounded by an additional protective film, such as a shrink film.

Furthermore, since the inside of the pressure jacket does not have an adhesive, ie no adhesive layer or the like, therefore, it is not necessary to additionally cover it with a non-adhesive film.

It is therefore also possible that the entire process, ie the production of the pressure envelope and the insertion of the inner bag, can be fully automatic. In this way, the bags can be made very quickly and inexpensively in large quantities. This can Furthermore, in particular the inner bag are also made entirely on today usual bag machines.

The invention is not limited to the above limitations. It should again be noted that, for example, the casing both as a separate part surrounding the non-pressure-resistant inner bag or container or may be an integral part of the same. In addition, the container assembly is not limited in shape or size by the embodiments. The production of the pouch or pressure jacket is not limited to the aforementioned exemplary methods. Furthermore, all conceivable materials for wrapping and bags can be used. Particularly preferred materials are described below.

For outside and intermediate walls which are not or have to be resistant to pressure, preference is given to films of polyethylene (PE) in its various forms, for example low density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), medium density (MDPE) and High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) as well as ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVA or EVOH), nylon, PP, PET or PVC films. These may be simple films or composite films, laminated films, coextruded films or metallized films. The structure of the film depends on the properties of the product and is chosen so that, for example, an optimal quality and shelf life of the product is guaranteed. In beer, for example, a film is selected that is food safe and has a maximum barrier function against gases, in particular CO ₂ and O ₂ , and against light.

As a pressure jacket or as an independent pressure bag are preferably gas-tight and pressure-resistant films, e.g. stretched plastic films, composite films, laminated or coextruded films, e.g. the above non-pressure-resistant films, which are additionally reinforced by fabrics made of plastic, synthetic fibers, glass fibers, carbon fibers or natural fibers.

For non-gastight pressure jackets, films, tapes, coated or uncoated fabrics made of mineral or synthetic fibers, such as e.g. Glass fibers, carbon fibers, etc., consist of or are reinforced by such are used.

In order to save costs and weight, furthermore, the fiber density (number of fibers / cm ² ) can be arranged in such a way that the tensile forces occurring at different points at different levels are optimally absorbed.

As conditionally pressure-resistant and conditionally gas-tight films are preferably plastic fabric or lattice (for example, PVC, PET) or fabric made of natural fibers.

As a pressure-resistant, non-gas-tight sheath are preferably tissues such as plastic fibers, natural fibers, carbon fibers or glass fibers.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1, 10, 20, 30 .....

A container assembly

2, 12, 22, 32 .....

Serving, casing

3, 13, 23, 33 .....

first chamber, product chamber

4, 14, 24, 34 .....

second chamber, pressure chamber

5, 15, 25, 35 .....

first connection, product connection

6, 16, 26, 36 .....

second connection, pressure connection

7, 17, 27, 37 .....

wall

8, 18, 28, 38 .....

Product bag or container

9, 19, 29, 39 .....

Pressure bag or container

21, 31 ............

bag

40, 50, 60 ........

Container arrangement in pillow form

61 ................

combo port

45, 55, 65 ........

product connection

46, 56, 66 ........

pressure connection

70 ................

Container arrangement in cylindrical form

80 ................

Container arrangement in cubic form

90 ................

parallel connected container arrangement

91 ................

pressure line

92 ................

product line

100 ...............

Sheathing or wrapping

101 ...............

first slide

102 ...............

second slide

103 ...............

overlapping area

104,105,106,107 ...

projecting area

108 ...............

Product bag or container

109 ...............

connection

110 ...............

first opening

111 ...............

second opening

112 ...............

Container arrangement surrounding film

200 ...............

Sheathing or wrapping

201 ...............

first stirrer

202 ...............

second piece of pipe

208 ...............

Product bag or container

209 ...............

connection

210 ...............

opening

212 ...............

Container arrangement surrounding film

300 ...............

Sheathing or wrapping

301 ...............

back part

302 ...............

front part

304,305,306,307 ...

protruding areas

308 ...............

Product bag or container

309 ...............

connection

310 ...............

opening

401 ...............

self-adhesive film or fabric

401a, 401b ........

handled areas

402 ...............

splice

411 ...............

self-adhesive film or fabric

412 ...............

self-adhesive films or fabric pieces

413a, 413b ........

splice

501 ...............

Foil or tissue

501a, 501b ........

overlapping areas

502 ...............

splice

511 ...............

first piece of foil or fabric

512 ...............

second piece of foil or fabric

513a, 513b ........

splice

600, 605 ..........

self-adhesive film

601, 606 ..........

fiber reinforced film

602, 607 ..........

Adhesive layer, adhesive side

603 ...............

connector

604 ...............

non-adhesive cover

608, 609 ..........

area to be folded

610 ...............

drum-shaped body

611, 631 ..........

holding area

620, 630 ..........

rectangular body

640 ...............

pressure jacket

641, 642 ..........

bushings

650 ................

inner bag

651 ...............

product bag

652 ...............

pressure bag

653 ...............

product connection

654 ...............

pressure connection

655 ...............

connecting area

H .................

handle

S .................

punching tool

W .................

insertion tool

Claims (3)

1. A container arrangement for gas-containing liquids, including an enclosure (22), wherein
   the enclosure consists of a pressure-resistant material and
   the enclosure surrounds at least two chambers, wherein the first chamber (23) serves to receive and dispense the gas-containing liquid via a first connector (25),
   the second chamber (24) is a pressure chamber, which is provided with a second connector (26) for the application of pressure and
   a flexible wall is arranged between the first chamber (23) and the second chamber (24),
   the first chamber (23) and the second chamber (24) are arranged next to one another in the enclosure (22),
   the first chamber (23) and the second chamber (24) are constituted by a bag (21), wherein the wall (27) is formed integrally with the bag (21) between the chambers (23), (24), characterised in that
   the pressure-resistant enclosure (22) consists of a collapsible material and completely surrounds the bag (21).
2. A container arrangement as claimed in claim 1, characterised in that the container arrangement (50) has a pillow shape, a cylindrical shape or a cuboidal shape.
3. A container arrangement as claimed in claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the container arrangement has handles (H).

Images