EP4363337A1 - Dispositif d'expansion pour maintenir une ouverture dans un emballage d'aliments ouverte - Google Patents

Dispositif d'expansion pour maintenir une ouverture dans un emballage d'aliments ouverte

Info

Publication number
EP4363337A1
EP4363337A1 EP22741492.7A EP22741492A EP4363337A1 EP 4363337 A1 EP4363337 A1 EP 4363337A1 EP 22741492 A EP22741492 A EP 22741492A EP 4363337 A1 EP4363337 A1 EP 4363337A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
section
pouch
expander device
opening
ring member
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP22741492.7A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Cristiane LOPES OLIVEIRA
Zlatomira CIRHANOVA
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Societe des Produits Nestle SA
Nestle SA
Original Assignee
Societe des Produits Nestle SA
Nestle SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Societe des Produits Nestle SA, Nestle SA filed Critical Societe des Produits Nestle SA
Publication of EP4363337A1 publication Critical patent/EP4363337A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D43/00—Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D43/02—Removable lids or covers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D33/00—Details of, or accessories for, sacks or bags
    • B65D33/007—Details of, or accessories for, sacks or bags for facilitating the separation of the two walls, e.g. walls of inequal height, tabs; for maintaining the mouth of the sack or bag open
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D33/00—Details of, or accessories for, sacks or bags
    • B65D33/02—Local reinforcements or stiffening inserts, e.g. wires, strings, strips or frames
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
    • B65D77/04—Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another
    • B65D77/06—Liquids or semi-liquids or other materials or articles enclosed in flexible containers disposed within rigid containers

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an expander device for keeping an opening in a pouch open.
  • the present invention also relates to a package system, which comprises the expander device, and to a method of using said package system.
  • Consumer products such as food, cosmetics, cleaning supplies or medicine, are often filled and packaged in bags or pouches large enough to provide consumers with multiple servings.
  • the consumer opens the packaging along a tearing line or by cutting an opening in the packaging to access the contents of the packaging. If not all the product is used at once, the consumer is confronted with the problem of storing the remaining content for later use.
  • the consumer may choose to empty the product from the packaging into a storage box.
  • the consumer may decide to leave the product inside the packaging and close the opened packaging with a clip, adhesive tape or rubber band that are often supplied with the packaging.
  • a known disadvantage of using a storage box is that there is a risk that substances or microorganisms left inside the storage box may contaminate or damage the product and thus, reduce product integrity and safety. This is particularly problematic for products that demand a high level of hygiene and product integrity and safety, such as food products for infants or vulnerable persons.
  • a first aspect of the invention relates to an expander device for keeping a pouch opening of a pouch open.
  • the expander device comprises two elements. Each of the two elements comprises an inner ring section and an outer section.
  • the two elements are rotatably connected to each other about a rotation axis.
  • the two elements are rotatably connected to each other in a scissor-like manner so that the inner ring sections together form a ring member.
  • the ring member at least partially surrounds a central opening.
  • the two elements are rotatably connected to each other in a scissor-like manner so that, when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening, the outer sections of the elements at least partially surround the inner ring sections of the other element, respectively.
  • the ring member comprises an outer circumferential fitment section.
  • the outer circumferential fitment section at least partially surrounds the central opening and faces away from the central opening for being fitted against an inner side surface of a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening.
  • an expander device is provided that is suitable for keeping an opening (e.g. an aperture, orifice, perforation) in a pouch open.
  • the expander device comprises two elements that are rotatably connected to each other like a pair of scissors.
  • the two elements may be connected to each other such that the rotation axis penetrates each of the elements at a portion or (pivot) point within their respective body boundaries.
  • the rotation axis may act as a fulcrum for the two elements.
  • the expander device may be configured such (or the elements may be connected to each other such) that the two elements may function as first-class levers.
  • first-class levers have the fulcrum placed between the load and the effort.
  • Each of the elements comprises an inner ring section.
  • the two elements are relatively rotatable (pivotable) to each other.
  • the inner ring section may comprise a (not necessarily (semi-)circular) body that at least partially surrounds an opening or that may be open on one side.
  • each of the elements comprises an outer section.
  • the inner ring section and the outer section together form the element.
  • the two elements are connected to each other (and/or preferably configured) such that the inner ring sections together can form a ring member with a central opening.
  • the ring member may comprise a (not necessarily circular) body with an opening that may be arranged centrally.
  • the ring member may at least partially surround (encircle) a central opening that is formed (or delimited) by the two inner ring sections.
  • the central opening may be defined by outer edges of the two inner ring sections.
  • the two inner ring sections may complement each other to form the ring member with the central opening.
  • the ring member comprises an outer circumferential fitment section that faces away from the central opening and that is suitable (or configured) for being fitted inside the pouch opening.
  • the circumferential fitment section may be formed by at least one of the two inner ring sections. Fitment of the fitment section against the inner side surface of the pouch opening may be achieved, for example, by the circumferential fitment section being engaged with or applying contact pressure to the inner side surface of the pouch opening.
  • the two elements are connected to each other (and/or preferably configured) so that, when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening, the outer sections of the elements at least partially surround (an external side, i.e. a side facing away from the central opening, of) the inner ring sections of the other element, respectively.
  • the outer sections may surround (encircle) the circumferential fitment section.
  • a projected area of the central opening delimited by the inner ring sections may be used to determine the (normal) viewing direction.
  • the viewing direction may be perpendicular to the rotation axis.
  • the ring member is preferably reversibly convertible between two positions, namely, a collapsed position and an expanded position.
  • the collapsed position may be configured for inserting the expander device at least with the outer circumferential fitment section into the pouch via the pouch opening.
  • the expanded position may be configured to provide the central opening as an access opening to the pouch when the outer circumferential fitment section is (circumferentially) fitted against the rim section to keep the pouch opening (by compressive force) open.
  • the inner ring sections are angled to each other to span an angle a.
  • the angle a is the angle spanned between the inner ring sections when viewed along the rotational axis.
  • the angle a in the collapsed position is smaller than the angle a in the expanded position so that
  • a device by which the pouch opening can be expanded so that, for example, the pouch opening (or pouch material defining the pouch opening) is straightened out, spread out, unfolded, and/ or increased in its extension (e.g. diameter, width).
  • the expander device capable of being convertible between the following two positions:
  • a first position (the collapsed position) exists for inserting the expander device in the pouch opening.
  • the outer sections can be used for (manually) holding the expander device and to arrange and align the inner ring sections within the pouch opening in this position.
  • the angle a e.g. folding or moving the elements together
  • the expander device can be adapted to access smaller pouch openings or openings that are crumpled or partially obstructed by flexible pouch material.
  • the inner ring sections can be used conveniently as guiding means for inserting the expander device in the pouch opening.
  • hygiene can be improved.
  • a second position (ii) exists, where the expander device is securely held in place with respect to the pouch opening.
  • the circumference and/or the outer circumferential fitment section expands (increases in size) so that through engagement (e.g. pressurizing) of the outer circumferential fitment section against the inner side surface of the pouch opening a holding force can be generated.
  • the expander device can be secured by being fitted against the inner side surface.
  • the inner ring sections that engage with the pouch material
  • the operator may merely press (flatten) the two outer sections towards the pouch, for example, by pressing the flat hand against the outer sections.
  • the outer sections may increase the strength of the attachment between the pouch and the expander device by enclosing the pouch from the outside.
  • the pouch by providing the pouch with the central opening as a suitable access opening, it is possible to access the entire content of the packaging more easily.
  • the expander device allows to overcome the drawbacks of known packaging solutions.
  • the expander device may be configured such that in operation, it is (preferably only) arrangeable on the pouch such that one side of the central opening faces upwards (i.e. away from the pouch opening), and/or such that it is on the same side with respect to the pouch opening as it is with respect to the central opening.
  • the rotation axis may penetrate an upper rim portion of the expander device or of the ring member in the expanded position. Alternatively or additionally, in the expanded position, the rotation axis may penetrate the expander device adjacent (close/in immediate proximity) to the fitment section.
  • the expander device can be placed deeper inside the pouch opening without colliding with the pouch material.
  • the expander device can be secured more safely inside the pouch.
  • structures connecting the inner ring section with the corresponding outer section may extend transversely from the inner circumferential fitment section and thereby, block relative movement of the expander device to the pouch along a direction normal to the pouch opening. By placing these structures further outside the pouch opening, the insertion depth can be increased.
  • the two elements may be biased relative to each other towards the expanded position when being converted from the expanded position to the collapsed position.
  • the ring member in the expanded position, may extend substantially within a plane.
  • the expanded position exp anded maybe i8o°.
  • the inner ring sections may be angled to each other with a large (maximum) angle a.
  • the applicable contact pressure can be maximized with this configuration and thereby, the expander device can be secured more safely in the pouch opening.
  • the ring member (or the outer circumferential fitment section) may extend in a circumferentially closed manner.
  • the closed profile of the ring member facilitates that pressure is exerted equally along the circumference of the circumferential rim section onto the pouch opening. Thereby, the expander device can be secured more safely in the pouch opening.
  • the outer sections may form together an outer ring member that at least partially surrounds the ring member and its central opening when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening and/or the rotational axis.
  • the outer sections may form together an outer ring member that at least partially surrounds the ring member and its central opening in the expanded position.
  • a gap for receiving the rim section preferably in a squeezed or clamping manner may be formed between the ring member or its fitment section on the one hand and the outer sections on the other hand.
  • the outer ring member may allow carrying the pouch with the expander device inserted. Also, the expander device may be stopped by the outer ring member from falling into the pouch opening. Thereby, the risk of contaminating the product inside the pouch can be reduced.
  • the inner ring section and the outer section of each element may form together a circumferentially closed profile.
  • the fitment section may at least partially comprise an inhibiting feature, like a structured surface (e.g. comprising a rib and/or dot structure), and/or like an outer inhibiting layer (e.g. a coating, a laminate, a sticker).
  • an inhibiting feature may be made of an anti-skid material like rubber.
  • the inner ring section and the outer section of each element may be formed separately or integrally with each other.
  • the inner ring section and the outer section maybe formed by separate brackets.
  • the expander device preferably at least its ring member, may have a round, circular, oval, square, rectangular, or polygonal shape.
  • the expander device (or at least or only the ring member) may be made of metal, plastic material or bioplastics, and/ or a fiber-based material, such as paper, cardboard, pulp or molded fiber.
  • recyclable and/or biodegradable materials may be used.
  • an antibacterial material or coating may be used.
  • a synthetic or natural resin maybe used.
  • the expander device may be made from a combination of such materials, such as a combination of polyethylene (PE) and fibre (molded) based materials, or PE and silicon, or PE and a thermoplastic. Also, a combination between metal and plastics may be used as materials for the expander device. However, these are only examples and do not represent a complete enumeration.
  • PE polyethylene
  • molded molded
  • metal and plastics may be used as materials for the expander device.
  • the expander device can be simplified. Also, the expander device can be used in a multitude of different applications.
  • each element may be connected to each other via a connection section.
  • the rotation axis may cross the connection section.
  • each element may comprise two connection sections that may be provided on opposite sides with respect to the central opening.
  • the inner ring section of at least one, preferably of each element may widen at the connection section. Preferably, they may widen in a gradual or stepwise manner.
  • the respective elements, preferably their respective connection sections may comprise a pivot structure to cooperate with a pivot structure of the other element to rotatably connect the two elements.
  • the expander device may comprise a(n upper) circumferential device rim section for supporting the expander device on a container rim section of a storage container for receiving the pouch with the expander device when being in the expanded position.
  • the device rim section may protrude from the inner ring sections in a direction away from the central opening.
  • the device rim section may protrude from the outer sections in a direction towards and/ or away from the central opening.
  • the expander device for example, with a flange-like structure facing towards and/or away from the central opening.
  • This facilitates, for example, exact positioning of the expander device on the pouch and/or the storage container.
  • hygiene and product integrity can be improved as product cannot fall between container wall and the pouch when being retrieved from the pouch.
  • Such configuration may allow to avoid rotating the two elements beyond a maximum angle.
  • the expander device preferably the outer sections, may comprise gripping sections for receiving fingers of a user for gripping.
  • the gripping sections may be provided by dents in the expander device or outer sections that project toward the central opening when viewed in the expanded position in a direction perpendicular to the central opening or to the rotation axis.
  • the expander device may comprise a lid for closing the central opening at least in the expanded position.
  • the lid may be separately provided or integrally formed with the expander device or the ring member.
  • the expander device may comprise (at least one or multiple) support elements for receiving a dosing device at or within the ring member.
  • the dosing device may be a spoon or scoop. Thereby, it is possible to place and store a dosing device at or preferably even within the expander device.
  • the support elements may be provided on each of the two elements, preferably on each of the respective inner ring sections. At least one of the support elements may protrude laterally inward from the ring member (into the central opening). Preferably, the support elements may be arranged opposite to each other (e.g. with respect to the central opening) and/or facing each other. The support elements may be arranged equally distanced from each other along the perimeter (circumference) of the ring member. The support elements may project into the central opening. Preferably, the support elements may be arranged at one of the two opposite ends of the ring member. Preferably, the support elements may (at least) partially cover the central opening. Preferably, the support elements may have a (hollow) semicircle or arc shape. lO
  • the support elements may be integral with the ring member. However, it is also conceivable that the support elements may be removable or detachable. Preferably, the support elements may extend within the same plane as the ring member.
  • the support elements may comprise surface features for securing (attaching/holding) a dosing device to the ring member.
  • the surface features may be fasteners, protruding structures, clips, latches or spring locks, and/ or a surface for increasing friction or adhesive forces between the ring member and a dosing device.
  • a further aspect of the present invention relates to a package system.
  • the package system comprises a pouch carrying a food product.
  • the package system comprises an expander device as described above.
  • the expander device is to be inserted, in the collapsed position of the ring member, at least with the fitment section into a pouch opening of the pouch to keep the pouch opening open by fitment of the fitment section against an inner side surface of a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening when the ring member is converted in the expanded position.
  • the expander device can also be achieved with the package system. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a package system with an expander device that is easy to clean and reusable so that packaging material can be reduced. In particular, the provision of separate elements for retrieving product from the pouch, such as a spout, can be avoided. Therein, it can be achieved that instead of having to provide each pouch with a separate opening means, the expander device only needs to be provided once for the consumer and can be reused subsequently.
  • the package system may further comprise a storage container.
  • the storage container may have a container opening for receiving the pouch and the expander device.
  • the expander device in the expanded position, may press the rim section towards or against a circumferential inner wall section of the storage container, preferably at or adjacent to the container opening.
  • the rim section may be squeezed or clamped between the ring member and the outer sections.
  • the pouch opening can be kept safely in place inside the storage container. Moreover, with this configuration, it can be ensured that the space inside the storage container is used and that no gaps exist between the storage container and the pouch at least near (adjoining) the container opening. Thus, hygiene can be improved.
  • the package system may further comprise a dosing device.
  • the dosing device may be configured to be arrangeable within the central opening such that the dosing device is (entirely enclosed) within the ring member.
  • the expander device may be arranged inside the pouch opening such that the dosing device may be received by the support elements at a lower end of the ring member (preferably, the lower end being the end facing towards a substance contained inside the pouch when the expander device is inserted in the pouch opening).
  • the dosing device may be a spoon or scoop.
  • the dosing device may comprise a handle and a bowl preferably having a defined volume with an opening. The handle maybe adjustable in length (e.g.
  • the handle may comprise structures, such as ribs, for improving the bending stiffness and rigidity of the handle.
  • dosing (scooping) of substances can be facilitated that require a certain amount of force to be retrieved. For example, if powdery substances clump together it can be difficult to retrieve the substance without putting some strain on the dosing device.
  • the dosing device (e.g. the handle and the bowl) may extend within a single plane.
  • the handle may extend laterally away from the opening of the bowl.
  • the bowl may have a similar (or maximum) height to the height of ring member.
  • the dosing accuracy can be improved as excess powder can be removed easily from the bowl.
  • the dosing device may be made from any material, such as plastic (e.g. PE), metal, and / or a fiber-based material, such as paper, cardboard or pulp.
  • plastic e.g. PE
  • metal e.g. aluminum
  • fiber-based material such as paper, cardboard or pulp.
  • the handle and/or the bowl may be provided with locking structures that may be configured to correspond with the aforementioned surface features provided on the support elements.
  • a further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for use of a package system.
  • a package system as described above is provided.
  • the ring member is converted from the expanded position to the collapsed position.
  • the expander device is inserted into the pouch opening at least with the fitment section.
  • the ring member is converted from the collapsed position to the expanded position so that the fitment section fits against the inner side surface of the rim section to keep the pouch opening open.
  • the pouch may be opened, for example with an opening device, to provide a pouch opening.
  • the pouch may be closed with a lid suitable for closing the central opening.
  • the lid may be preferably attached to the expander device.
  • the method allows for leaving the product inside its packaging.
  • the packaging commonly already supplies the properties required for safely storing the product.
  • the method allows for a hygienic and safe use of the package system and improves the utilisation of product contained inside the pouch. Filling the product in a separate storage container is not required so that the risk of contaminating the product with external substances or bacteria can be reduced.
  • a storage container of the package system may be provided.
  • the pouch may be received inside the storage container.
  • the rim section may be pressed at least with the ring member towards or against a circumferential inner wall section of the storage container.
  • the rim section may be preferably pressed at least with the ring member towards or against a circumferential inner wall section of the storage container at or adjacent to the container opening.
  • the expander device once being connected to the pouch, may be attached to (e.g. hung into) the storage container, preferably at the container opening.
  • the dosing device may be placed (and secured) inside the expander device.
  • the storage container may be closed with a container lid.
  • Figure l shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an expander device according to the invention in an expanded position.
  • Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the expander device of Figure l in a collapsed position.
  • Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the expanded position.
  • Figure 4 shows a simplified further perspective view of the expander device of Figure 3 in the expanded position.
  • Figure 5 shows a simplified perspective view of the expander device of Figure 3 in the collapsed position.
  • Figure 6A shows a schematic side and top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the collapsed position.
  • Figure 6B shows a schematic side and top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the collapsed position.
  • Figure 7 shows an embodiment of a package system of the invention with a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention.
  • Figure 8 shows steps of an embodiment of a method for use of a package system according to the invention with the package system of Figure 7.
  • Figure 9 shows steps of a further embodiment of a method for use of a package system according to the invention with the expander device of Figure 1.
  • Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the expanded position from above.
  • Figure 11 shows a bottom perspective view of the expander device of Figure 10.
  • Figure 12 shows a perspective view of the expander device of Figure 10 with a dosing device from above in the expanded position.
  • Figure 13 shows a top perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 12. - Detailed description
  • a first aspect of the present invention relates to an expander device too for keeping a pouch opening 411 of a pouch 400 open.
  • Figures 1 to 12 show exemplarily different views and aspects of different embodiments of the expander device too.
  • the pouch 400 may be suitable to carry food products and/or it may carry food products, for example. Preferably, it may carry granular or powdery food products, such as milk powder or coffee beans. However, it is also conceivable that the pouch 400 may carry different food products or non-food products, such as washing powder.
  • the pouch 400 may be provided, for example, as stand-up packaging, sachet, or bag, such as a gusseted bag.
  • the pouch 400 may be made of a paper, cardboard, metallic, metallized and/or plastic material.
  • the pouch 400 may be made of a material that comprises at least sufficient rigidity to stand upright on its own.
  • the pouch 400 may be made of a stretchable material.
  • the pouch 400 may be circumferentially sealed by heat sealing and/or may comprise tearing lines for opening the pouch 400 along one of its edges to provide an opening therein.
  • the pouch 400 may comprise a volume between 200 ml and 10 litres. More preferred, the pouch 400 may comprise a volume between 200 ml and 3.5 litres. However, this is not a complete enumeration and other configurations of the pouch 400 are conceivable.
  • the pouch 400 may comprise an opening, such as the pouch opening 411, preferably on an upper end or an upper side portion of the pouch 400.
  • Figures 8 and 9 show this exemplarily.
  • the pouch opening 411 maybe provided by cutting an opening in the pouch 400 or by opening the pouch 400 along one of its edges or sealing lines.
  • the pouch opening 411 may comprise a circumferential rim section 412.
  • the circumferential rim section 412 may define the pouch opening 411.
  • the pouch opening 411 maybe formed by an inner side surface 413.
  • the inner side surface 413 may comprise the rim section 412.
  • Figures 8 and 9 show this exemplarily.
  • the pouch opening 411 may have any shape or form.
  • the pouch opening 411 may be round or rectangular.
  • the expander device too may have a shape, layout or form that may correspond with the shape of the pouch opening 411.
  • the size of the expander device too may correspond with or may match the size of the pouch 400 or pouch opening 411.
  • the expander device too may be designed such that it can be handled by an operator with one or two hands.
  • Figures 8 and 9 show this exemplarily.
  • a maximum size (diameter or width) of the expander device too may be delimited by an average human hand span width.
  • the expander device too may have a preferred operational orientation with respect to the pouch 400.
  • the expander device too may be preferably configured such that in operation, it is arrangeable on the pouch 400 such that one of the expander device’s too two opposite ends (sides) faces upwards (away) from the pouch opening 411 (thus, being an upper end of the expander device too) while the respective other end (side) faces towards the pouch opening 411 (thus, being a lower end of the expander device too).
  • Figures 8 to 10, 12 and 13 show such an operational orientation exemplarily.
  • the Figures are only examples and the expander i6 device 100 may take other orientations in operation or may be used independently from its orientation.
  • the expander device loo comprises two elements no, 120, which are exemplarily shown in all Figures.
  • the two elements no, 120 may be identical or similar (e.g. Figure 6B) to each other, or they may be different from each other (e.g. Figure 6A).
  • at least one of the elements no, 120 may have a closed profile or may be circumferentially closed.
  • at least one of the two elements no, 120 may have a circular (e.g. Figures 7 and 8) or rectangular or quadratic (e.g. Figures 1-6, 9) profile.
  • at least one of the elements no, 120 may have at least one convex profile portion.
  • the expander device too or the two elements no, 120 may be made of metal, plastic material or bioplastics, and/or a fiber-based material, such as paper, cardboard, pulp or molded fiber.
  • a fiber-based material such as paper, cardboard, pulp or molded fiber.
  • sustainable, recyclable and/or biodegradable materials may be used.
  • the expander device too may be made from pulp or (synthetic or natural) resin.
  • an antibacterial material or coating may be used.
  • the expander device too may be made from a combination of such materials, such as a combination of polyethylene (PE) and fibre-based materials, or PE and silicon, or PE and a thermoplastic.
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • PE polyethylene
  • Each of the two elements 110, 120 comprises an inner ring section 111, 121 and an outer section 112, 122. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.
  • the inner ring section 111, 121 and/or the outer section 112, 122 may have any shape or form of a section of a ring-shaped body.
  • the inner ring section(s) 111, 121 and/or the outer section 112, 122 may have a semi-circular layout as exemplarily illustrated in Figures 7, 8 and 10-13, or it may be semi-rectangular or semi-quadratic as exemplarily illustrated in Figures 1 to 6 and 9.
  • the inner ring section 111, 121 and/or the outer section 112, 122 may comprise a shape with at least one convex side.
  • the inner ring section 111, 121 and/or the outer section 112, 122 may have a U-shape such as exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. Together, the inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122 of each element 110, 120 may form a circumferentially closed profile. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.
  • the inner ring section 111, 121 may be smaller or larger than the respective outer section 112, 122.
  • the inner ring section m, 121 and the outer section 112, 122 of each of the two elements 110, 120 maybe formed separately or integrally with each other.
  • each element 110, 120 may be formed as a unit or single piece by forming the inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122 integrally.
  • the inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122 of each element 110, 120 maybe formed individually by separate brackets.
  • the individual sections 111, 112, 121, 122 or the individual elements 110, 120 may be formed by injection molding or pulp molding. Alternatively or additionally, metallurgic processes may be used to produce the individual elements 110, 120.
  • each element 110, 120 may be connected to each other via at least one connection section 113, 123.
  • connection section 113, 123 may form a transitioning portion between the inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.
  • the inner ring section 111, 121 may expand laterally (widen) towards the outer section 112,
  • connection section 113, 123 may be formed as a pin or axle and/or a corresponding pin opening or sleeve. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 7, 8 and 10 to 13.
  • the connection section(s) 113, 123 may preferably be integral with the elements 110, 120 such as exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. However, it is also conceivable that the connection section(s) 113, 123 may be components separate from the elements 110, 120.
  • the elements 110, 120 are rotatably connected to each other about a rotation axis RA.
  • the expander device too maybe symmetrical, preferably mirror symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis RA.
  • the rotation axis RA may be defined by pivot structures 151, 152, by which the two elements 110, 120 maybe rotatably connected to each other.
  • Each of the elements 110, 120 may comprise at least one, preferably two, of the pivot structures 151, 152.
  • the pivot structures 151, 152 may be provided to cooperate with each other.
  • the pivot structures 151, 152 maybe provided as pin 151 and a corresponding opening 152.
  • the pivot structures 151, 152 may be formed by an open cylinder shell and a pin being arranged rotatably therein.
  • the two elements 110, 120 may be connected by magnets or otherwise.
  • the rotation axis RA may cross the connection section 113, 123.
  • the respective connection sections 113, 123 may comprise the pivot structure 151, 152.
  • the connection sections 113, 123 may be formed as the pivot structures 151, 152.
  • the pivot structures 151, 152 may be provided as separate elements.
  • the two elements 110, 120 are connected to each other rotatably about the rotation axis
  • the ring member 130 may take different shapes and forms depending on a rotational arrangement the two elements 110, 120 may have relatively to each other. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.
  • the ring member 130 may be made of the same or a different material than the expander device too or the elements 110, 120.
  • the central opening 131 is exemplarily illustrated as being completely surrounded by the inner ring sections 111, 121. However, this is not to be considered delimiting.
  • the shape of the central opening 131 maybe defined by the shape of the inner ring sections 111, 121.
  • the central opening 131 may completely penetrate the ring member 130 and/or the expander device too.
  • the central opening no may form a passage between opposite ends (e.g. the upper end and the lower end) or sides of the expander device too.
  • the ring member 130 comprises an outer circumferential fitment section 132 for being fitted against the inner side surface 412 of the circumferential rim section 413 of the pouch opening 411.
  • the outer circumferential fitment section 132 surrounds at least partially the central opening 131 and faces away from the central opening 131. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.
  • the outer fitment section 132 may taper with increased distance from one side of the central opening 131 to the other side of the central opening 131. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 1 to 3.
  • the outer fitment section 132 may at least partially comprise an inhibiting feature (not illustrated).
  • the inhibiting feature maybe a structured surface or an outer layer for inhibiting relative movement between the outer fitment section 132 and the inner side surface 412, for example.
  • the inhibiting structure may be a rib structure or a dot structure.
  • the inhibiting structure may be a coating, a laminate or a sticker.
  • the inhibiting structure may be made of an anti-skid material like rubber.
  • the two elements 110, 120 are connected to each other rotatably about the rotation axis RA in a scissor-like manner so that - in a viewing direction perpendicular onto the central opening 131 - the outer sections 112, 122 of the elements 110, 120 at least partially surround the inner ring sections 111, 121 of the (respective) other element 120, 110, respectively.
  • This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.
  • the illustrations on the right side of Figures 6A and 6B show exemplarily a view of the central opening 131 along a direction perpendicular to the central opening 131.
  • the outer sections 112, 122 may form together an outer ring member 140.
  • the outer ring member 140 may at least partially surround the ring member 130 and its central opening 131 when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening 131.
  • Figures 1, 3, 6A, 6B and 10 to 13 illustrate this exemplarily.
  • the ring member 130 is smaller than the outer ring member 140.
  • the outer ring member 140 may be configured and/ or may be large enough for placing the expander device 100 over the pouch 400.
  • the two elements 110, 120 may be pivotably connected to each other such that the inner ring section 111, 121 of one of the elements 110, 120 can pass below the outer section 112, 122 and/or the inner ring section 111, 121 of the respective other element 120, 110.
  • the two elements 110, 120 may be pivotably connected to each other such that the outer section 112, 122 of one of the elements 110, 120 may not pass underneath the outer section 122, 112 of the other element 120, 110.
  • the two elements no, 120 maybe arranged symmetrically to each other with respect to the rotation axis RA, such as illustrated exemplarily in Figure 6B.
  • At least one of the elements no, 120 may be arranged offset from the rotation axis RA. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figure 6A, where one of the elements, namely element no, is arranged offset from the centre of the other element, namely element 120.
  • the ring member 130 is convertible between at least two positions, in which the inner ring sections 111, 121 span an angle a, respectively:
  • One of the positions is a collapsed position for inserting the expander device too at least with the fitment section 132 into the pouch 400 via the pouch opening 411.
  • Another position is an expanded position to provide the central opening 131 as an access opening to the pouch 400 when the fitment section 132 is (circumferentially) fitted against the rim section 413 to keep the pouch opening 411 (e.g. by compressive force) open.
  • the ring member 130 is exemplarily illustrated in this position in Figures 1, 3, 4, and 8 to 13.
  • the ring member 130 may extend substantially within a plane and/ or exp anded may be 180 0 .
  • This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 1, 3, 4, and 8 to 13.
  • the angle a maybe different in the expanded position.
  • a blocking portion may be provided on at least one of the elements 110, 120 (preferably the outer sections 112, 122) for stopping relative rotation of the two elements 110, 120 beyond a certain angle.
  • the blocking portion is exemplarily illustrated as a step 170 that extends laterally from the outer section 112 (along the rotation axis RA) so that the inner ring section 121 of the respective other element 120 cannot be relatively turned beyond a certain angle.
  • Figures illustrate exemplarily that, at least in the expanded position, the ring member 130 or the outer circumferential fitment section 132 may extend in a circumferentially closed manner.
  • Figures 6A and 6B show that such configuration may be found also in a position, where exp anded maybe smaller than i8o°.
  • the rotation axis RA may penetrate an upper rim portion 135 of the ring member 130 preferably adjacent (e.g. within 1 mm to 20 mm) to the fitment section 132.
  • a gap for receiving the rim section 413 preferably in a squeezed or clamping manner may be formed between the ring member 130 or its fitment section 132 on the one hand, and the outer sections 112, 122 on the other hand.
  • the expander device 100 (or at least its ring member 130), may have a round, circular, oval, square, rectangular, or polygonal shape. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.
  • the central opening 131 may have any shape and form.
  • the central opening 131 may have a round, circular, oval, square, rectangular, or polygonal shape. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.
  • the central opening 131 may have dimensions, such as width or diameter, that may be sufficient for accessing the inside of the pouch 400 with a dosing device, like a spoon or cup.
  • the central opening 131 may have a diameter within the range of 1 cm to 30 cm.
  • the central opening 131 may be centred with respect to the ring member 130 at least in the expanded position.
  • the ring member 130 may have a lateral extension (i.e. length and/or width, for example) in one extension direction (within the plane) of 3 cm to 90 cm, more preferred of 3 cm to 35 cm.
  • the Figures may show only individual examples for the respective two positions of the ring member 130, it may be still possible to arrange the ring member 130 in different positions that may still fall within the specifics of the configurations of a “collapsed position” or of an “expanded position” as defined above.
  • the pouch material cannot be compressed or expanded by the ring member 130 in the manner illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, the ring member 130 may take a position different from the illustrated positions, which, however, could still be compliant with the definition of the expanded position.
  • the two elements 110, 120 may be biased relative to each other towards the expanded position when being converted from the expanded position to the collapsed position.
  • the expander device too may comprise a lid for closing the central opening 131 at least in the expanded position (not illustrated).
  • the lid may be provided separately or it may be integrally formed with the expander device too or the ring member 130.
  • the lid may be connected to the expander device too via a hinge.
  • the expander device too may comprise (preferably at the outer sections 112, 122) gripping sections for receiving fingers 700 of a user for gripping the outer sections 112,
  • the gripping sections may be provided by dents in the expander device too or the outer sections 112, 122.
  • the dents may project toward the central opening 131 when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening 131.
  • the expander device too may comprise at least one support element 191, 192 for receiving a dosing device (such as the below described dosing device 300) within (and/ or inside) the ring member 130 (in the expanded position).
  • a dosing device such as the below described dosing device 300
  • two or more support elements 191, 192 maybe provided. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 10 to 13 ⁇
  • the support elements 191, 192 may have any configuration (shape, size, and/or their respective arrangement within the ring member 130) that is suitable for blocking a dosing device from falling through the central opening 131 at least when the expander device too is in the expanded position.
  • the support elements 191, 192 may be configured such that a dosing device is storable inside the ring member 130.
  • the support elements 191, 192 may be a platform or a ledge protruding laterally inward from the inner ring sections 111, 121, respectively. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 10 to 13.
  • At least one of the support elements 191, 192 may protrude laterally inward from the ring member 130 (into the central opening 131). Thereby, the support elements 191, 192 may (at least) partially cover the central opening 131.
  • the support elements 191, 192 maybe arranged opposite to each other with respect to (the center of) the central opening 131.
  • the support elements 191, 192 may be arranged at a (lower or upper) rim section the ring member 130.
  • the support elements 191, 192 may at least partially extend in an extension direction of the central opening 131.
  • the support elements 191, 192 may be provided integral with the ring member 130, preferably integral with the inner ring sections 111, 121. This is exemplarily shown in Figures 10-13.
  • the support elements 191, 192 may be arranged and/or distributed along an inner edge of the ring member 130 (perimeter of the central opening 131).
  • the support elements 191, 192 may be arranged mirror symmetrically with respect to the rotation axis RA. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 10 to 13.
  • the support elements 191, 192 may have the same shape and size, or they may be configured to be different from each other.
  • the support elements 191, 192 may have a (hollow) semicircle, arc or bow shape. This is exemplarily shown in Figures 10 to 13.
  • a first support element 191 is exemplarily shown with a semicircle shape.
  • a second support element 192 has the shape of a segment of a semicircle. These are only examples and other shapes are conceivable.
  • the support elements 191, 192 may comprise surface features for securing (attaching/holding) a dosing device to (inside) the ring member 130 at least in the expanded position.
  • the surface features may be fasteners, protruding structures, clips, latches or spring locks, and/or a surface layer for increasing friction and/or adhesive forces between the ring member 130 (or the support elements 191, 192) and a dosing device.
  • a further aspect of the invention relates to a package system 200.
  • Figures 7 to 9 show different embodiments of the package system 200.
  • the package system 200 comprises at least one pouch 400 containing a food product.
  • the pouch 400 may be the same, similar or different from the pouch 400 described before.
  • the package system 200 further comprises the expander device too as described above. Therein, the expander device too is to be inserted at least with the fitment section 132 into the pouch opening 411 in the collapsed position of the ring member 130 so to keep the pouch opening 411 open by fitment of the fitment section 132 against the inner side surface 412 of the pouch opening 411 by converting the ring member 130 in the expanded position.
  • the package system 200 may further comprise a storage container 500 with a container opening 511, which may be suitable for receiving the pouch 400 and the expander device too.
  • the storage container 500 is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 7 to 9.
  • the storage container 500 may have any shape or form.
  • the storage container 500 may be suitable for receiving the pouch 400 and the expander device too.
  • the storage container 500 may have a volume between 200 ml and 10I.
  • the storage container 500 may be made of a glass, metal, plastic and/or paper material.
  • the storage container 500 may have an opening, such as the container opening 511, on one (an upper) end.
  • the container opening 511 may comprise a container rim section 513.
  • the container opening 511 may be defined (on the inside) by the container rim section 513.
  • a circumferential inner wall of the storage container 500 may define the inside of the storage container 500.
  • a circumferential inner wall section 512 may be adjacent to the container opening 511. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figure 7.
  • the expander device too may be configured to sit on or be fitted onto the storage container 500.
  • the shape of the expander device too may correspond with the shape of the container opening 511.
  • the expander device too may be fitted with the ring member 130 into the container opening 511 and to surround the container opening 511 from the outside with the outer ring member 140. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 8 and 9.
  • the expander device too may comprise a circumferential device rim section protruding away from the central opening 131 when being in the expanded position.
  • the device rim section may function, for example, as a collar, by which relative movement of the expander device too with respect to the storage container 500 and/ or the pouch 400 may be restricted in at least one, preferably at least two directions.
  • the expander device too (the ring member 130) may be configured to press the rim section 413 of the pouch opening 411 towards or against the circumferential inner wall section 512, which may preferably at or adjacent to the container opening 511.
  • the inner wall section 512 may be at a distance of up to 5 cm from the container opening 511, more preferred within 0,2 cm to 5 cm from the container opening 511.
  • the rim section 413 of the pouch 400 maybe squeezed or clamped between the ring member 130 and the outer sections 112, 122 of the expander device 100.
  • the package system 200 may also comprise a container lid 550 for closing the storage container 500.
  • the container lid 550 may be a snap on lid, for example. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 7 to 9.
  • the container lid 550 may be connected to the container 500 via a hinge.
  • the container lid 550 maybe a twist-off lid.
  • the package system 200 may further comprise a dosing device 300 for measuring and dispensing a suitable amount of product contained inside the pouch 400.
  • the dosing device 300 maybe a scoop, spoon or measuring cup.
  • Figures 8, 9 and 12 to 13 show the dosing device 300 exemplarily.
  • the dosing device 300 may comprise a handle 310 for being gripped and a bowl 320 for retrieving a defined amount of product from the pouch 400.
  • the bowl 320 may have a defined volume that may be open towards one side in a filling direction.
  • the bowl 320 may comprise a defined surface structure.
  • slits penetrating a portion of the bowl 320 or ribs protruding therefrom may be provided as such surface structure.
  • the ribs maybe used to indicate a defined filling level.
  • the bowl 320 may have a similar height as the ring member 130 in the expanded position so that the dosing device 300 can fit inside (within) the expander device too (being in the expanded position). Thereby, the dosing device 300 can be stored inside the expander device too.
  • the handle 310 may extend along a longitudinal direction.
  • the filling direction of the bowl 320 may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the handle 310.
  • the handle 310 may comprise structures, such as ribs, for improving the bending stiffness and/or rigidity of the dosing device 300 in order to reduce the risk of the dosing device 300 breaking during scooping.
  • the handle 310 may be adjustable in length.
  • the handle 310 may comprise a telescopic mechanism.
  • the handle 310 may be extendable in size through a spring mechanism (biased towards maximum length) or by attaching extension elements. Such configurations may be advantageous if the package system 200 is used with pouches 400 of different sizes.
  • the handle 310 may be attached to the bowl 320.
  • the handle 310 may be integral with the bowl 320.
  • the handle 310 may extend laterally away from the bowl 320 with respect to its opening.
  • the dosing device 300 (preferably the handle 310 and the bowl 320) may extend within a single plane.
  • the dosing device 300 may be made from any (food safe) material, such as plastic (e.g. PE), metal, and/or a fiber-based material, such as cardboard or pulp.
  • the dosing device 300 may extend longitudinally with a length that corresponds with the diameter of the central opening 110.
  • the dosing device 300 may have a length that is smaller than the central opening 110 (at the lower end, for example).
  • the handle 310 and/or the bowl 320 may be provided with locking structures that may be configured to correspond with the surface features provided on the support elements 191, 192.
  • the dosing device 300 may have a length that is larger than the distance (gap) between the two opposite support elements 191, 192. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 12 and 13.
  • the expander device too may be arranged inside the pouch opening 411 such that - in the connected state of the pouch 400 and the expander device too - the support elements 191, 192 are at the lower end of the expander device too.
  • Figures 10, 12 and 13 illustrate this orientation of the expander device too exemplarily.
  • the dosing device 300 and the expander device too maybe configured such that the dosing device 300 may be placeable onto the support elements 191, 192 such that the opening of the volume of the bowl 320 faces towards the lower end of the expander device too (and thus, towards the substance contained inside the pouch 400). Thereby, substances from a previous dosing process can fall back into the pouch 400 so that an accumulation and waste of substance can be reduced.
  • the dosing device 300 may be placed and/ or stored inside the expander device too in the expanded position.
  • the package system 200 may also comprise an opening device 600 for opening the pouch 400.
  • the opening device 600 maybe scissors.
  • Figures 7 to 9 show this exemplarily.
  • a further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for use of the package system 200.
  • Figures 8 and 9 show exemplarily various steps of different embodiments of a method for use of the package system 200.
  • the method comprises the step of providing the package system 200 as described above.
  • the package system 200 may be provided with the storage container 500.
  • the pouch 400 may be placed inside the storage container 500.
  • the pouch 400 may be opened, e.g. by hand 700 tearing a tearing line or with the opening device 600, to provide the pouch with an opening, such as the pouch opening 411. This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 8 and 9.
  • the package system 200 is provided such that the ring member 130 is already in the collapsed position.
  • the expander device 100 is provided in the expanded position and the ring member 130 is converted to the collapsed position.
  • the hand 700 may be used to push together the inner ring sections 111, 121 along the directions AD indicated by arrows in Figure 8.
  • the expander device 100 is inserted at least with the fitment section 132 into the pouch opening 411.
  • the ring member 130 is converted from the collapsed position to the expanded position so that the fitment section 132 fits against the inner side surface 412 of the rim section 413 to keep the pouch opening 411 open.
  • the rim section 413 of the pouch 400 may be pressed at least with the ring member 130 towards or against a circumferential inner wall section 512 of the storage container 500 (preferably at or adjacent to the container opening 511). This is exemplarily illustrated in Figures 8 and 9.
  • the pouch opening 411 may be converted from a folded configuration that is less accessible to an unfolded configuration that allows easy access to the product inside the pouch 400.
  • This is exemplarily indicated by gussets blocking the available space in the pouch opening 411 in Figures 8 and 9.
  • the dosing device 300 maybe placed and stored on the support elements 191, 192 inside the expander device 100 preferably in its expanded position.
  • the dosing device 300 may be placed inside the expander device 100 with the opening of the bowl 320 facing towards the inside of the pouch 400.
  • the dosing device 300 may be fastened to the support elements 191, 192 inside the ring member 130 by interlocking structures provided on the support elements 191, 192 and the dosing device 300.
  • the storage container 500 (or the container opening 511) may be closed with the container lid 550. It is also conceivable that the expander device too being already connected to the pouch 400 may be attached (e.g. hung) to the storage container 500 preferably at the container opening 511.
  • the pouch opening 411 may then be closed by the container lid 550 and/or the lid attached to the expander device too.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Bag Frames (AREA)
  • Supplying Of Containers To The Packaging Station (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un dispositif d'expansion (100) destiné à maintenir une ouverture de poche (411) d'une poche (400) ouverte. Le dispositif d'expansion (100) comprend deux éléments (110, 120), dont chacun comprend une section de bague intérieure (111, 121) et une section extérieure (112, 122). Les deux éléments (110, 120) sont reliés rotatifs l'un à l'autre autour d'un axe de rotation (RA) à la manière de ciseaux de telle sorte que les sections de bague intérieure (111, 121) forment ensemble un élément annulaire (130) avec une ouverture centrale (131), et de telle sorte que, vu perpendiculairement à l'ouverture centrale (131), les sections extérieures (112, 122) des éléments (110, 120) entourent les sections annulaires internes (111, 121) de l'autre élément (120, 110), respectivement. L'élément annulaire (130) comprend une section d'ajustement circonférentiel externe (132) qui entoure l'ouverture centrale (131) et est tournée à l'opposé de l'ouverture centrale (131) de façon à être ajustée contre une surface latérale interne (412) de l'ouverture de poche (411). L'élément annulaire (130) est convertible entre une position repliée, dans laquelle les sections de bague intérieure (111, 121) sont inclinées l'une par rapport à l'autre pour s'étendre sur un angle α=αreplié, et une position déployée, dans laquelle les sections de bague interne (111, 121) s'étendent sur un angle α=αdéployé avec αreplié<αdéployé. L'invention concerne en outre un système d'emballage (200) comprenant le dispositif d'expansion (100) et une poche (400), ainsi qu'un procédé d'utilisation dudit système d'emballage (200).
EP22741492.7A 2021-07-01 2022-07-01 Dispositif d'expansion pour maintenir une ouverture dans un emballage d'aliments ouverte Pending EP4363337A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP21183119 2021-07-01
PCT/EP2022/068271 WO2023275360A1 (fr) 2021-07-01 2022-07-01 Dispositif d'expansion pour maintenir une ouverture dans un emballage d'aliments ouverte

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP4363337A1 true EP4363337A1 (fr) 2024-05-08

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP22741492.7A Pending EP4363337A1 (fr) 2021-07-01 2022-07-01 Dispositif d'expansion pour maintenir une ouverture dans un emballage d'aliments ouverte

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Country Link
EP (1) EP4363337A1 (fr)
CN (1) CN117545702A (fr)
AU (1) AU2022303116A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2023275360A1 (fr)

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2693212A (en) * 1954-01-08 1954-11-02 Emanuel Stein Closure for receptacles
BR112013015466A2 (pt) * 2010-12-21 2016-09-27 Nestec Sa recipiente e bolsa
WO2017006149A1 (fr) * 2015-07-09 2017-01-12 Compagnie Gervais Danone Emballage alimentaire contenant un sac intérieur

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AU2022303116A1 (en) 2023-11-30
CN117545702A (zh) 2024-02-09
WO2023275360A1 (fr) 2023-01-05

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