KR20050006152A - Method and device for holding reclosable thermoplastic slider bags - Google Patents

Abstract

The holding device 20 for the thermoplastic bag 50 according to the invention comprises a side panel 52, a reclosable seal at one end and comprising a pair of opposed interlocking closure strips 56, and a closure. A bag having a slider 58 for opening and closing the strip 56 is used. Such a retaining device 20 has a support surface and a pair of elongated retaining members each having a proximal portion 33 and a distal portion 34 adjacent to the support surface, defining a channel 36 therebetween. 23, 24). The channel 36 has a first section 25 that encloses and encloses a portion of the slider and a second section 26 which receives only the closing strip 56, not the slider 58. The channel 36 further comprises a slot 30 formed by the distal portions 34 of the retaining members 23, 24, wherein the slot 30 has a side panel 52 of the thermoplastic bag 50. It may enter the slot 30 but has a width sufficient to prevent the closing strip 56 from passing through the slot 30.

Description

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR HOLDING RECLOSABLE THERMOPLASTIC SLIDER BAGS}

It is well known to use thermoplastic bags to store articles. Such bags are used to store a variety of items, ranging from food to crafts and children's toys, to general household items. In general, such bags can be characterized by with or without an integral resealing device. Bags that do not include any integral resealing devices typically require a separate sealing member, such as a wire twist-tie, to seal the bag. Such separate sealing members are often lost or not readily available to the user, so that sometimes the bags are folded and overlapped or the walls of the bags are knotted. In the former case, the bag is not normally sealed properly, while in the latter case it may be problematic or virtually impossible to untie the bag later. Bags comprising an integral resealing device overcome such problems, but bags which in particular require the user to move their fingers and thumbs over the bag's closure strips carry other potential drawbacks. In particular, the user may not be able to easily determine whether the bag is completely closed when sealing such a bag.

Slider bags have been developed that allow the user to more easily close the thermoplastic storage bag with an integral resealing device. Such a bag includes a slider mounted to be moved on the closing strip, which includes a member that closes the bag when the slider is moved toward the first position and opens the bag when the slider is moved toward the second position. Such arrangement allows the user to easily determine the open / closed state of the bag.

Regardless of the type of bag, a bag that is not easily sealed may spill out the contents of the bag if not carefully handled. In addition, many different types and shapes of articles are apt to be stored in such bags, resulting in irregular and / or different shapes of bags. If such bags are placed together in confined spaces, such as cupboards, cabinets, drawers, shelves, refrigerators, etc., a confusing situation can develop and prevent the user from easily placing a particular bag. In addition, when the user attempts to place a particular bag, the bags may be pushed together, causing one or more bags to fall off the support surface and to the floor, resulting in damage to the bag and / or items stored therein and / or leakage of contents. This will occur. In addition, the bags are usually placed on top of each other, resulting in inefficient use of space. In addition, when the bags are stacked on top of each other in a non-limiting place, the bags tend to slip away from the stacked arrangement. Bags stacked on top tend to hide the contents of the bags underneath, which obscures the advantages of transparent plastic used to easily identify the contents of the bags.

Attempts have been made to address the above-mentioned problems through the use of a rack system in which one or more storage bags are each suspended from its open end so that the remainder of each bag can be hooked under the rack irrespective of the contents of the bag.

US Patent No. 5,467,949 to Lemke discloses a clamping hanger for food bags. Such hangers are used with snack bags, such as potato chip bags, where one end of the bag is open and does not have an integral closing device. Such a clamping hanger includes a clamping member that defines a slit narrower than the combined thickness of the walls of the snack bag. The user slides the open end of the bag into the slit to keep the bag in the slit by friction.

No. 4,787,522 to Nocek et al. Discloses a bag storage device. Such bag storage devices are designed for use with a non slider type reclosable bag having an interlocking profile having a thickness thicker than the combined thickness of the side panels of the bag. Such storage devices include members that are narrower than the thickness of the interlocking profile but are wide enough to accommodate the combined thickness of the side panels of the bag freely. In addition, the slot has a length as long as one hundred. When the bag is inserted into the slot and the profile is positioned beyond the slot, the profile engages with the portion of the member forming the slot to support the bag.

Similarly, US Pat. No. 4,854,530 to Baglio discloses a non-slider type reclosable back hanger system that includes a retaining device having a plurality of pairs of spaced rails or fingers. Each pair of rails or fingers are spaced apart from each other to define slots that are smaller than the thickness of the bag's interlocking profile but larger than the combined thickness of the side panels of the bag. A number of bags slide over the slot into the slot as a profile of the bag such that the profile contacts and is supported by the rail or finger. A single bag or multiple bags are thus supported.

Johnson's US Pat. No. 5,960,957 discloses a non-slider type reclosable backing storage system. The patent discloses a variety of rack systems for use with a reclosable plastic bag that includes an interlocking profile that exhibits a thickness greater than the combined thickness of the side panels of the bag. All rack storage systems disclosed in the patent use slots that are smaller than the thickness of the interlocking profile but larger than the combined thickness of the side panels of the bag. Such rack systems disclosed are cylindrical, vertical, and horizontal systems, all of which include multiple slots for holding several bags.

The present invention relates to a reclosable thermoplastic slider bag, and more particularly to a method and apparatus for holding a reclosable thermoplastic slider bag.

In view of the following detailed description, further aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent. Among the accompanying drawings,

1 is an isometric view of a bidirectional retaining device with a slider bag inserted therein and the bag closed;

FIG. 2 is a bottom elevation view of the retaining device of FIG. 1; FIG.

3 is an end elevation of the retaining device of FIG. 1;

3A is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device of FIG. 1 taken along line 3a-3a as a whole;

3B is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device of FIG. 1 taken along line 3b-3b throughout;

4 is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device of FIG. 1 taken along line 4-4 as a whole;

5 is an isometric view of the unidirectional holding device with the slider bag inserted therein and the bag closed;

5A is an isometric view of another embodiment according to the invention similar to FIG. 5 taken from the bottom and left rear side of the holding device;

5B is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 5A taken from its upper and right rear side;

5C is a top view of the holding device of FIGS. 5A and 5B;

5D is a bottom elevation view of the retaining device of FIGS. 5A and 5B;

5E is an end elevation of the retaining device of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5F is an elevation view of the end of the retaining device opposite to the view shown in FIG. 5E;

FIG. 5G is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device taken along line 5g-5g of FIG. 5 as a whole;

FIG. 6 is a view similar to that of FIG. 4 but without a retaining member; FIG.

7 is an end elevation of the retaining device of FIG. 6;

8 is an end elevation of the retaining device of FIG. 6 with a slider bag inserted;

9 is a view similar to that of FIG. 4 with the slider bag partially inserted;

10 is a bottom elevation view of another embodiment of the present invention;

11 is an end elevation of the retaining device of FIG. 10;

12 is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device of FIG. 10 taken along line 12-12 as a whole;

FIG. 12A is a view similar to the view of FIG. 12 showing an alternative embodiment of the retaining device; FIG.

FIG. 12B is a view similar to the view of FIG. 12 showing an alternative embodiment of the retaining device; FIG.

12C is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device taken along the line 12c-12c as a whole;

FIG. 12D is a view similar to that of FIG. 12, showing an optionally formed interference member; FIG.

13 is a plan view of another embodiment of a retaining device;

FIG. 14 is a bottom elevation view of the retaining device of FIG. 13; FIG.

15 is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device of FIG. 14 taken along line 15-15 as a whole;

FIG. 16 is a triaxial projection of the retaining device of FIG. 13 in a rack storage system; FIG.

FIG. 17 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the retaining device of FIG. 7 in which the first section is shorter than the slider; FIG.

17A is an end elevation view of the retaining device of FIG. 17 including a detent;

FIG. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device of FIG. 17 taken along line 17b-17b as a whole;

18 is a top view of another embodiment of the present invention;

18A is a bottom elevation view of the retaining device of claim 18;

18B is an end elevation of the retaining device of claim 18;

19 is an isometric view of the holding device of the present invention with the hanger clip attached to the support member;

20 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention;

21 is an end elevation of the retaining device of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a side elevation view of the retaining device of FIG. 20 showing the slider bag inserted into the retaining device; FIG.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23-23 of FIG. 22 as a whole;

24 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention showing the slider bag is about to be inserted into the retaining device;

25 is an isometric view of the retaining device of FIG. 24 showing that the slider bag has been inserted into the retaining device and partially closed;

FIG. 26 is a partial enlarged view of FIG. 25 showing details of the slider bag inserted into the retaining device and partially closed;

FIG. 27 is a simplified cross sectional view taken generally along line 23-23 of FIG. 25;

28 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention;

29 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention;

30 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 31 is a bottom elevation view of the retaining device of FIG. 30; FIG.

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device of FIG. 31 taken along line 32-32 of FIG. 31 as a whole;

33 is a view similar to that of FIG. 31 showing that the slider bag is supported;

34 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device of FIG. 34 taken along line 35-35 of FIG. 34 to show that the slider bag is supported;

36 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention showing that the slider bag is supported;

FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the retaining device of FIG. 36 taken along line 37-37 of FIG. 36 as a whole;

38 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of the present invention;

39 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 40 is an elevation view of the retaining device of FIG. 39 taken in partial section along the line 40-40 of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a view similar to the view of FIG. 35 showing an alternative embodiment;

42 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention;

43-46 are isometric views of the embodiment of FIGS. 24-27 associated with slider type bags manufactured and / or sold by various companies;

47 is an elevational view of a number of retaining devices according to the present invention disposed in a horizontal orientation on a vertical support surface;

48 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention with the support surface consisting of a refrigerator shelf;

49 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 49A is an end elevation of the retaining device of FIG. 49; FIG.

FIG. 50 is a side elevation view of the retaining device taken along line 50-50 of FIG. 49 as a whole; FIG.

FIG. 51 is an isometric view of a retaining device similar to the retaining device shown in FIG. 40 but with screw holes for attachment to a surface;

52 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the present invention;

52A is a side elevation view of the retaining device of FIG. 52;

53 is an elevation view of another embodiment of the present invention.

According to one aspect of the invention, a retaining device for a thermoplastic bag having a side panel, a reclosable seal at one end, and a slider for opening and closing the reclosable seal comprises a support surface and a support surface adjacent to the support surface. A pair of elongated retaining members, each having a proximal portion and a distal portion, defining a channel. The channel has a first section for receiving the slider and a second section for receiving a portion of the bag. The channel further includes a slot formed by the distal portion of the retaining member, wherein the slot has a width sufficient to prevent the side panel of the thermoplastic bag from entering the slot but preventing the portion of the bag from passing through the slot.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a retaining device for a thermoplastic bag includes a support surface and a pair of elongated retaining members each having a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent to the support surface and defining a channel. The channel has a first section for receiving and enclosing a portion of the slider of the thermoplastic bag and a second section for receiving only the closure strip of the bag, not the slider. The channel is through a slot formed by the distal portion of the retaining member, the slot having a width sufficient to prevent the closing strip from passing through the slot, although the side panel of the thermoplastic bag can enter the slot.

According to another aspect of the invention, the retaining device comprises a pair of elongated retaining members each having a support surface and a distal portion, defining a channel. At least one of the retaining members is disposed adjacent to the support surface. The channel includes first and second sections, the first section being sized to receive at least a portion of the slider of the thermoplastic bag and wider than the second section. The channel further comprises a slot formed by the distal portion of the retaining member, the width of the slot being narrower than the width of the second section of the channel.

According to another aspect of the invention, a retaining device for a reclosable thermoplastic slider bag comprises a support surface and a pair of elongated retaining members approximately parallel to one another and integrally attached to the support surface. The retaining member defines a channel having a length and two ends, each end of the channel being opened by an open slot extending along the length of the channel between the retaining members, wherein the slot is narrower than the channel. An interference member interfering with the slider of the bag is disposed adjacent to the channel while allowing the closing strip of the thermoplastic slider bag to pass through it.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for storing an article includes a step of placing an article in a storage bag comprising a closure strip and a slider mounted to slide on the closure strip and defining a channel supported by a support surface. Providing a retaining member. The channel further comprises a slot having a width wider than the first thickness in the first portion of the bag and smaller than the first thickness but larger than the second thickness in the second portion of the bag. Such an article storage method includes sliding the first portion of the storage bag into a channel such that the slider is in contact with it and moved by the retaining member toward the closed position, while the first portion of the storage bag is in interference with the retaining member. Additionally included.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a retaining device for a thermoplastic bag includes a support surface and a pair of elongated retaining members each having a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent to the support surface and defining a channel. The channel has a slot formed by a first section enclosing and enclosing a portion of the slider and the distal portion of the retaining member, wherein the slot indicates that the end stripper is passed through the slot although the closing strip of the thermoplastic bag can enter the slot. Have a sufficient width to prevent.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a rower having a retractable seal at one end of a side panel and a bag, wherein the reclosable seal comprises a pair of opposed interlocking closure strips and a slider for opening the closure strip; The holding device for the workpiece bag includes a support surface and a pair of elongated retaining members each having a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent to the support surface. The retaining member defines a channel having a slot formed by a first portion that receives and encloses a portion of the slider and a distal portion of the retaining member. The slot has a width sufficient to prevent the closure strip of the thermoplastic bag from entering the slot but passing the slider through the slot.

Another aspect of the invention is a method of supporting a thermoplastic storage bag comprising a closure strip, an end stopper at one end of the closure strip, a slider disposed on the closure strip, and a rail for retaining the slider on the closure strip. It is done. Such a support method includes a support member and a pair of walls coupled to and defining a channel between the support members, the holder comprising one or more walls comprising an interference portion, the bag being inserted into the channel Causing the slider to be partially in contact with the holder and moved from its initial position, and releasing the bag to support the bag in the holder such that at least one of the closure strip, rail, end stopper, and slider interferes with the interfering portion.

According to another aspect of the invention, a method of supporting a thermoplastic bag comprises providing a support member and a holder having a pair of walls coupled to the support member and defining a channel therebetween, reclosable Inserting the thermoplastic bag into the holder such that the slider of the bag is received in the channel and the bag is supported by the holder, and the bag is held in a nearly fixed position by applying force to the bag to move the bag relative to the slider and the closing strip moves the slider. Passing through.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of moving a thermoplastic bag includes contacting a slider with a retaining device, applying a first force to the thermoplastic bag in a first position, and placing the thermoplastic bag in a second position. Applying a force to cause the thermoplastic bag to move relative to the holding device and the holder.

According to another aspect of the invention, a method of moving a slider of a thermoplastic bag comprises contacting the slider to a holding device, securing the holding device, holding the bag, and moving the captured bag relative to the holding device and the slider. It comprises the step of.

In the following description, different reference numerals designate only similar structures or elements in various embodiments in only 100 digits.

1 to 4, the holding device 20 includes a support member 21 with a first side 22. The holding device 20 is intended for use with a reclosable thermoplastic slider bag 50 as shown in FIG. Such slider bag 50 has a side panel 52 defining a bag with one end 54 openable with a bottom and side seal. The openable end 54 has a pair of closure strips 56, which are opened by a user sliding the slider 58 from one end of the closure strip 56 to the other end, It is closed again by sliding the slider 58 to one end of the road.

Two elongated opposing walls or retaining members 23, 24 extend from the first side 22 of the support member 21. Such retaining members 23, 24 are preferably (but not necessarily required to be) face symmetric with each other and have a proximal portion 33, a distal portion 34, and two ends 35. Retaining members 23 and 24 define a channel 36 therebetween.

In a preferred embodiment the channel 36 is narrower than the first section 25 and the first section 25 at each end 35 of the retaining members 23, 24 and between the first sections 25. The retaining member is formed to include the second section 26 which is positioned. The size of the first section 25 is sufficient to allow a slider 58 of the type typically used for the slider bag to be inserted into either of the first sections 25 as shown in FIGS. 3A and 8. It becomes size. The first section 25 and the second section 26 are connected by a neck 27 tapered from the first section 25 to the second section 26. Each neck 27 prevents the slider from passing through the second section 26 but the one or more surfaces of the retaining members 23, 24 that do not prevent the closing strip from passing through the second section 26. Defined by 40 (hereinafter, such surface 40 may be considered to form part of the interference member). Optionally, the wall defines one or more recesses 29 in the distal portion of the one or more first sections 25. The purpose of such a recess 29 is to reduce or eliminate any potential stress that may be exerted by a heavy object that can be placed in the slider bag 50. In a preferred embodiment, the first section 25 is as long as the length of the slider 58 so that the slider 58 can be placed completely inside either side of the first section 25. The second section 26 preferably has a width that is greater than the width of the closing strip 56 of the slider bag 50 and is also smaller than the comparable size (s) of the slider 58 to the desired interference relationship. It is desirable to have a size (height or width or a combination of both) to obtain. For example, because the slider 58 has a height slightly larger than the height of the closing strip 56 in the illustrated embodiment, the second section 26 of the illustrated embodiment is designed to be narrower than the width of the slider 56. The desired interference relationship is obtained. However, in other embodiments, the interference member may take a wide variety of forms, as shown in FIGS. 12C and 12D. 1 to 4 show that both the outer surface and the inner surface of the wall or retaining members 23 and 24 are tapered, but the outer surface is not critical to the functioning of the retaining device, and thus may be of any desired shape. Can be.

As shown in FIGS. 1-4, each distal portion 34 of the retaining members 23, 24 further defines a slot 30 directly through the channel 36. Such a slot 30 is narrower than the second section 26 of the channel 36 but wider than the combined thickness of the side panels 52 of the slider bag 50. At least a portion of the slot 30 is preferably narrower than the width of a portion of the closure strip or of a portion of other protruding structures such as rails, ribs, and end stoppers of a typical slider bag on the market. An example of a commercial slider bag that can be used with any of the embodiments disclosed herein is shown in detail in Ziploc®with Easy Zipper (FIG. 9 and schematically shown in FIGS. 17, 17B and 23-26). Hefty OneZip® (shown in Figures 33, 35, 40, 41, and 43), Glad®Clicklock (shown in Figure 44), Presto®SureSeal (shown in Figure 45) Present), a slider bag (shown in FIG. 46) manufactured by Pliant Corporation and others.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, each retaining member 23, 24 defining the first section 25 adds a tapered surface defining one or more retaining members 28 and an angled mouse 32. It includes. Angled mouse 32 provides a large area that facilitates the user to slide slider bag 50 into slot 30. Each retaining member 28 preferably has a protrusion extending from each distal portion 34 to the first section 25. The spacing between the top of the retaining member 28 and the first side 22 is greater than the height of the slider 28.

The holding device 20 also includes a double sided adhesive tape strip 38 located on the side 42 of the support member 21 opposite the first side 22. Such a double-sided adhesive tape strip 38 allows the retaining device 20 to be adhered to a vertical wall or below a horizontal surface such as a shelf (not shown), thereby filling the slider bag 50 filled by the user of the retaining device. ) Can be attached to the holding device 20. As mentioned above, in certain other embodiments, an adhesive strip may be placed on the other surface of the retaining device 20, such as a flat surface on one of the retaining members 23 or 24. Suitable adhesive strips are Removable Foam Tape 4658F or 4492W available from 3M Corporation.

As shown in FIGS. 1-4, an optional method of attaching the retaining device 20 to a surface is a fixed slot 37. Such fixing slot 37 is included in each end of the support member 21. The user may attach the shank of the nail or screw (not shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 but shown by reference numeral 39 in the embodiment of FIG. 6) to the retaining device 20 through the fixing slot 37. Can be driven into the surface. Alternatively, other types of adhesives or other fixing devices, such as silicone adhesives, epoxy adhesives, or the like, may be used to secure the retaining device 20 to the surface.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-9, the user mounts one end of the slider bag 50 on which the slider 58 is located after mounting the retaining device 20 on a surface (not shown). 25) into one of them. It is typically done with the slider 58 in a fully open position on the closure strip, but the user opens or closes the slider bag 50 with the slider 58 at the leading or rear end of the closure strip 56 ( It is also very generally possible to insert into the retaining device 20 in a position in any intermediate position). In the illustrated embodiment, as the opened slider bag 50 is inserted into the recess 32, the slider 58 is simultaneously inserted into the first section 25 and passed through the retaining member 28, after which In contact with the surface defining the neck 27. Then, the user grasps the side panel 52 of the slider bag 50 under the holding device 20 so that the slider bag 50 ends at the end of the holding device 20 opposite to where the slider bag 50 is inserted. Push it, pull it or move it to another type. It allows the closing strip 56 to pass through the neck 27 to the second section 26. Since the neck 27 is narrower than the width of the slider 58, the slider 58 can not be moved past the neck 27, and the closing strip 56 responds to the force that the user exerts on the side panel 52. It is closed by sliding through the slider 58. As the user continues to move the bag 50 through the retaining device 20, the slider 58 eventually reaches the rear end of the closing strip 56 to completely close the slider bag 50. Since at least a portion of the slot 30 is narrower than the thickness of the closure strip 56, a portion of the closure strip 56 is supported by the surface defining the slot 30.

In the case of the slider bag 50 longer than the retaining device 20, a part of the closing strip 56 is not supported by the retaining device 20. In that case, the interfering contact between the slot 30 and the portion of the closing strip 56 that is in direct contact with the slot 30 should be sufficient to fully support the slider bag 50. In any case, as shown in FIG. 8, the slider 58 and the closing strip 56 are supported by the distal portion 34 of the retaining device 20, while the side panel 52 opens the slot 30. Hang freely through As also shown in FIG. 8, the support member 21 lies in the first plane 67. The wall 52 of the bag 50 lies in a second plane 69 perpendicular to the first plane 67.

To open the slider bag 50 and remove it from the retaining device 20, the user grasps the side panel 52 of the slider bag 50 on the side of the slider bag 50 close to the slider 58 and the slider bag 50. ) Is moved in the direction opposite to the above-described insertion direction. Then, the end of the slider 58 opposite the end disposed in the neck portion 27 is in contact with the retaining member 28 so that the retaining member 28 prevents the continuous movement of the slider 58. It becomes. As the user exerts additional force, the closing strip 56 is passed through the slider 58 which is now fixed and opened. Once the closing strip 56 is fully open, but at any time or even before the opening of the bag, the slider bag 50 can be lifted so that the slider 58 is free from interfering contact with the retaining member 28. It is desirable to move out so that the entire bag 50 can be easily removed from the retaining device 20 no matter where the slider 58 is located.

An advantage of the bidirectional device as shown in FIG. 1 is that the user can achieve the same functionality by inserting the slider bag 50 at either end.

As shown in FIG. 5, another embodiment of the present invention has one first section 25 located at one end 35a of the retaining device 200, whereby the user only has its end 35a. Is unidirectional in that it only encourages the insertion of the slider bag 50. However, a user inserting the opened slider bag 50 into the end opposite the first section 25 still closes the slider bag 50. In that case, the slider 58 blocked by the end 35b0 opposite the end 35a will eventually be placed in a position completely outside of the holding device 20.

5a to 5f show another embodiment of the retaining device 20 according to the invention similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5. Such a holding device 20 comprises a supporting member 21 with a first side 22. Two elongated opposing walls or retaining members 23, 24 extend from the first side 22 of the support member 21. Such retaining members 23, 24 are preferably (but not necessarily required to be) face symmetric with each other, and have a proximal portion 33, a distal portion 34, and two ends 35a, 35b. Retaining members 23 and 24 define a channel 36 therebetween.

In the illustrated embodiment, the channel 36 is narrower than the first section 25 and the first section 25 at the ends 35a of the retaining members 23 and 24 and from the end section (1) to the first section 25. Retaining members 23 and 24 are formed to include a second section 26 extending to 35b). The size of the first section 25 is large enough to allow the slider 58 to be inserted into the first section 25 as in the above-described embodiment. The first section 25 and the second section 26 are connected by a neck 27 tapered from the first section 25 to the second section 26. The neck 27 is one or more of the retaining members 23, 24 that prevents the slider 58 from passing through the second section 26 but does not prevent the closing strip from passing through the second section 26. Defined by surface 40 (hereinafter such surface 40 may be considered to form part of an interference member). Optionally, the wall defines one or more recesses 29 in the distal portion of the one or more first sections 25. As in the embodiment described above, the purpose of such a recess 29 is to reduce or eliminate any potential stress that may be exerted by a heavy object encased in the slider bag 50. As also described above, the first section 25 is preferably as long as the length of the slider 58 so that the slider 58 can be completely placed inside the first section 25. The second section 26 preferably has a width that is greater than the width of the closing strip 56 of the slider bag 50, and may also be comparable to that of the slider 58, as described above in connection with the preceding embodiments. It is desirable to have a size (height or width or a combination of both) that is smaller than the size (s) being present to achieve the desired interference relationship. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 5A-5F, the desired interference relationship is obtained by making the second section 26 narrower than the width of the slider 56.

As shown in FIGS. 5, 5A, and 5D-5F, each distal portion 34 of the retaining members 23, 24 further defines a slot 30 directly through the channel 36. do. Such a slot 30 is narrower than the second section 26 of the channel 36 but wider than the combined thickness of the side panels 52 of the slider bag 50. At least a portion of the slot 30 is preferably narrower than the width of a portion of the closure strip or of a portion of other protruding structures such as rails, ribs, and end stoppers of a typical slider bag on the market.

Referring now to FIGS. 5A, 5D, and 5E, each retaining member 23, 24 defining the first section 25 further includes one or more platforms 62. Angled mouse 32 provides a large area that facilitates the user to slide slider bag 50 into slot 30. Each platform 62 preferably has protrusions extending from each distal portion 34 to the first section 25. The spacing between the top of the platform 62 and the first side 22 is greater than the height of the slider 28. Each platform 62 includes a retaining member 28 as shown in FIG. 5A.

Referring now to FIGS. 5C, 5D, 5E, and 5G, the retention device 20 further includes a lamp 45 disposed in the first section 25 of the channel 36. Such a ramp 45 extends from the support member 21 into the first section 25 and partially blocks the first section 25. The lamp is bent from a point in the first section 25 to a point close to the second section 26 where the lamp ends. That is, the ramp 45 directs the inserted edge of the slider bag 50 toward the distal end 34 of the retaining members 23, 24 when the slider bag 50 is inserted.

Such holding device 20 may be mounted to any surface described in connection with any embodiment disclosed herein. For example, a double-sided adhesive tape strip 38 may be disposed on the side 42 of the support member 21 opposite the first side 22. Such a double-sided adhesive tape strip 38 allows the retaining device 20 to be adhered to a vertical wall or below a horizontal surface such as a shelf (not shown), thereby filling the slider bag 50 filled by the user of the retaining device. ) Can be attached to the holding device 20. As mentioned above, the adhesive strip may consist of Removable Foam Tape 4658F or 4492W, available from 3M Corporation.

As shown in FIGS. 5A-5D, an optional method of attaching the retaining device 20 to a surface is a fixing hole 64. Such fixing holes 64 are included in each end of the support member 21. The user may drive a shank of nails or screws (not shown in FIGS. 5A-5D) through the fixing holes 64 into the surface to which the retaining device 20 will be attached. Optionally, as described above, other types of adhesives or other fixing devices, such as silicone adhesives, epoxy adhesives, or the like, may be used to secure the retaining device 20 to the surface.

The support member 21 has downward edge flanges 66a, 66b that form side retainers or clips 68a, 68b that can be used to support the retaining device 20 in the form described below in connection with the embodiment of FIG. Include.

After mounting the retaining device 20 on the surface, the user inserts one end of the slider bag 50 in which the slider 58 is positioned into the first section 25. It is typically done with the slider 58 in a fully open position on the closure strip, but the user opens or closes the slider bag 50 with the slider 58 at the leading or rear end of the closure strip 56 ( It is also very generally possible to insert into the retaining device 20 in a position in any intermediate position). In the embodiment of FIGS. 5A-5F, as the opened slider bag 50 is inserted into the recess 32, the slider 58 is simultaneously inserted into the first section 25 and passed through the platform 62, After that, it comes into contact with the surface defining the neck 27. Optionally, as the opened slider bag is inserted into the first section 25, the edge of the slider bag 950 inserted into the retaining device 20 comes into contact with the ramp 45 to end 34 of the retaining members 23, 24. Headed to). The slider then comes into contact with the surface defining the neck 27.

Then, the user grasps the side panel 52 of the slider bag 50 under the holding device 20 so that the slider bag 50 ends at the end of the holding device 20 opposite to where the slider bag 50 is inserted. Push it, pull it or move it to another type. It allows the closing strip 56 to pass through the neck 27 to the second section 26. Since the neck 27 is narrower than the width of the slider 58, the slider 58 can not be moved past the neck 27, and the closing strip 56 responds to the force that the user exerts on the side panel 52. It is closed by sliding through the slider 58. As the user continues to move the bag 50 through the retaining device 20, the slider 58 eventually reaches the rear end of the closing strip 56 to completely close the slider bag 50. Since at least a portion of the slot 30 is narrower than the thickness of the closure strip 56, a portion of the closure strip 56 is supported by the surface defining the slot 30.

In the case of the slider bag 50 longer than the retaining device 20, a part of the closing strip 56 is not supported by the retaining device 20. In that case, the interfering contact between the slot 30 and the portion of the closing strip 56 that is in direct contact with the slot 30 should be sufficient to fully support the slider bag 50. In any case, the slider 58 and the closing strip 56 are supported by the distal portion 34 of the retaining device 20, while the side panel 52 is freely hung through the slot 30.

To open the slider bag 50 and remove it from the retaining device 20, the user grasps the side panel 52 of the slider bag 50 on the side of the slider bag 50 close to the slider 58 and the slider bag 50. ) Is moved in the direction opposite to the above-described insertion direction. Then, the end of the slider 58 opposite the end disposed in the neck portion 27 is in contact with the retaining member 28 of the platform 62, so that the retaining member 28 of the slider 58 is in contact with the end of the slider 58. This keeps you from moving continuously. As the user exerts additional force, the closing strip 56 is passed through the slider 58 which is now fixed and opened. Once the closing strip 56 is fully open, but at any time or even before the opening of the bag, the slider bag 50 can be lifted so that the slider 58 is free from interfering contact with the retaining member 28. It is desirable to move away so that the entire slider bag 50 can be easily removed from the retaining device 20 no matter where the slider 58 is located. The platform 62 supports one end of the bag 50 via the slider 58, so that the user has an empty hand to easily access the contents of the bag 50 without spilling the contents.

6 and 7 show another embodiment of the present invention without retaining member 28. The retaining device 20 of the present embodiment includes all the other points of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 to enable the retaining device 20 to support closing and supporting the slider bag 50, but the present embodiment includes a slider bag ( It does not support opening the slider bag 50 when removing 50 from the retaining device 20. The user closes the slider bag 50 by inserting the slider bag 50 into the retaining device 20 in the exact same manner as described above with reference to the apparatus of FIG. 1. However, when the slider bag 50 is removed from the retaining device 20, the user simply removes the bag from the retaining device 20 in the opposite direction of the insertion direction without any relative movement of the slider 58 and the closing strip 56. Just pull straight.

Referring now to FIGS. 10-12, another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The retaining device 120 includes a support member 121, face symmetric retaining members 123, 124, and one or more slider interference members in the form of vertically extending blocks or walls 131, respectively. Each retaining member 123, 124 has a proximal portion 133, a distal portion 134, and two ends 135, and the retaining members 123, 124 have an overall oval formed between them. 136). The proximal portion 133 of the retaining members 123 and 124 is attached to the support member 121 and defines a slot 130 that is in communication with the channel 136 between the distal portions 134. Slot 130 is wider than the combined thickness of side panel 52 but narrower than closure strip 56. Channel 136 has two first sections 125 and a second section 126 in between, which second section 126 is partly defined by slider block or wall 131.

The slider block or wall 131 in the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 12 is located in the center of the channel 136. Since channel 136 is large enough to accommodate slider 58, slider 58 may be moved into channel 136 until its slider 58 contacts the slider block or wall 131. At the point when the slider 58 contacts the slider block or wall 131, the slider is prevented from moving further in the channel 136. In another embodiment shown in FIG. 12A, the slider block or wall 131 spans most of the channel 136, and may be positioned off the center of the channel as shown, or similar to the slider block or wall 131. It may be centrally located. As in the case of the slider block or wall 131, the slider block or wall 171 is large enough to pass through the closing strip 56 but small enough to not pass through the slider 58. .

12B and 12C, another embodiment of a retaining device is shown. In this embodiment, except for the presence of one or more slider interference members in the form of blocks or walls 131 extending vertically, the width of the channel 136 is constant over the entire length of the retaining device. Such an interference member 160 prevents the slider 58 from passing into the channel 136 farther than the interference member, but at the same time prevents the closing strip 56 from passing through the entire length of the channel 136. Allow.

12D shows an optional interference member 162 that differs from the interference member 160 only in form. If desired, a single pair of interference members 162 as opposed to the spacing pairs shown in FIGS. 12B and 12C may be used.

13 to 16, another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The holding device 220 includes a supporting member 221 and face symmetric holding members 223 and 224. The support member 221 includes a side edge 240 and an end edge 242. As shown in FIG. 16, the support member 221 has a side clip 244 and an end clip 246 projecting from the side edge 240 and the end edge 242 in the same direction as the retaining members 223 and 224, respectively. It further comprises a support means or a support member in the form of). Side clips and end clips 244, 246 are used to support the holding device 220 to the wire rack system 300 for use in a refrigerator or closed shelf system. The embodiments of FIGS. 13-15 are almost identical to the embodiment of FIG. 16 except that optional means for supporting the retaining device 220 are used. In this embodiment, the support surface includes a screw hole 260 that attaches the retaining device 220 to the surface using screws or similar fasteners (not shown).

In the embodiment of FIGS. 13-16 the retaining member is functionally identical to the configuration shown and described with respect to FIG. 1 with the exception of some additional features. In particular, as in the embodiment of FIG. 1, two face symmetric retaining members 223, 224 define a channel 236, and distal portions of the retaining members 223, 224 define a slot 230. Slot 230 is disposed directly below screw hole 260 such that a wood screw or similar fastener (not shown) passes between retaining members 223 and 224, thereby turning or walling (not shown). Two threaded apertures 262 that allow them to pass into a support surface, such as: Bridge portion 266 extends from support member 221 into channel 236 while in contact with retaining members 223 and 224. Such bridge portion 266 reinforces the retaining device 220. In addition, retaining members 223 and 224 include outer support ribs 264 that further reinforce retaining device 220. The first section 225, the second section 226, and the neck 227 perform the same functions as shown in FIG. 1.

Side clip 244 in the embodiment of FIG. 16 may be continuous or discontinuous. The side clip 244 may also have a series of inwardly directed lip or other retaining devices 280. Such a lip or other retaining device 280 is clipped over a rod in a wire rack to secure the retaining device to the rack. The retaining device 220 is sized so that the clip 244 fits over two adjacent rods of the wire rack with the maximum predetermined spacing between adjacent rods, and the ribs 280 on both sides of the retaining device 220. By interfering with this rod, it is held in a predetermined position. In a narrower rack system where the rods 290 are closer together, one of the rods 290 is engaged by one of the ribs 280 on one side of the retaining device, and the adjacent rod 290 is retained. May be engaged by a wall defining one or more notches 278 in sidewall 279 of the distal portion of 224. One of the end clips 246 is also clipped over the end rod 292 as also shown to allow the retaining device 50 to slide along the rod 290 when the user inserts the slider bag 50 into the retaining device. The holding device 50 is firmly held.

In another embodiment of the retaining device 320 as shown in FIG. 17, the length of the first section 325 may be shorter than the length of the slider 58. During the use of such an embodiment, the slider 58 is not fully contained within the first section 325, but is still held in a predetermined position by the retaining members 323, 325 defining the first section 325, and the slider ( 58 is prevented from passing into the second section at the neck 327. That is, the holding device 320 supports closing the inserted slider bag 50. All other features of this embodiment are similar to those shown in FIG.

A variant of this embodiment shown in FIG. 17A includes one or more bosses or detents 370 extending from the retaining members 223, 224 to the recesses 332. The boss or detent 370 is an alternative to the retaining member 28 as shown in FIG. 1. In particular, the detent 370 provides sufficient frictional resistance to the movement of the slider after allowing the slider 58 to be moved into the space therebetween when pulling the slider 58 out of the retaining device 320. They are spaced apart from each other by an interval sufficient to keep the slider 58 in a predetermined position. Referring next to FIG. 17B, a slider 58 that may be used with the present embodiment rather than the slider disclosed in the preceding figures may partially vary the width of the slider 58 along a portion of the length of the slider 58. Or a groove 59 that narrows completely. When the user inserts the slider 58 into the recess 332, the user must apply pressure to push the front edge of the slider 58 past the detent 370. Once past detent 370, the front edge of slider 58 contacts the surface of neck 327 to stop. As the slider bag 50 continues to be pulled by the user, the closing strip 56 passes through the slider 58 until the bag reaches the closed position. In that case, the grooves 59 of the slider 58 are preferably arranged (but not necessarily) such that the detent 370 does not frictionally contact the slider 58. To remove the slider bag 50 from the holding device 320, the user may pull the slider bag 50 in the direction opposite to the insertion direction. Then, the contact with the detent 370 is stopped. If the user continues to pull the bag in the same direction, the closing strip 56 is passed through the slider 58 until the bag reaches the open position. The user then pulls the slider 58 past the detent 370 to completely remove the slider bag 50 from the retaining device 370.

As will be apparent from the foregoing, the pawl 370 may have a shape complementary to one or more portions of the slider, or the configuration of one of the pawl 370 and slider 58 may depend on the shape of the other. Can be selected, thereby allowing the pawls 370 and the slider 58 to advantageously cooperate with each other.

Referring now to FIGS. 18, 18A, and 18B, another embodiment of the present invention is shown. Such retaining device 420 includes a supporting member 421 and retaining members 423, 424. Retaining members 423 and 424 further have proximal and distal portions 433 and 434, and are attached to support member 421 at proximal portion 433, forming a channel 436 therebetween. Channel 436 is open at one or more ends and has a larger size than slider 58 of slider bag 50. Channel 436 further includes a slot 430 formed by distal portion 434 of retaining members 423, 424, which slot 430 is narrower than slider 58 but with side panel 52. Has a wider width than the combined thickness of. Retaining members 423 and 424 also include one or more blocking members or walls 468. A blocking member or wall 468 is disposed in the channel 436 and sized to block the passage of the slider 58 while allowing the closing strip 56 to pass through or between the blocking members 468. While this embodiment illustrates two blocking members 468 located one at each end of the retaining device, another embodiment includes only one blocking member 468 located at a suitable point in the channel 436. You may.

20 to 23 show another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the open or closed slider bag 50 is slid into the retaining device 520 attached to the shelf or other suitable surface 502 by the double-sided adhesive tape 538. Such retaining device 520 has retaining members 523, 524 suspended from support member 521. Retaining members 523 and 524 define a recess 525 that houses slider 580. In this embodiment, retaining device 520 is supported by one or both of retaining members 523 and 524 so that the slider It also includes an interference member in the form of one or more flanges 568 that hold 58 and again support the slider bag 50. In order to better hold the slider bag in the desired position, the retaining device is flanged. It may also include one or more retaining members 528 held at one or both ends of 568. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining member 528 is a slider 58 of the slider bag 50 closed. Is provided with an upstanding protrusion having a size and a spaced gap to allow insertion into the recess 525 past the retaining member 528. The retaining member 528 is retained between the upstanding protrusions. Inning Until the lift up member 528 to prevent the slider 58 is removed from the recess 525.

If desired, an optional end wall (not shown) may be provided at one end of the retaining device 520 to prevent the slider 58 from being removed through one end when or after the slider 58 is inserted. . Since the sole purpose of the rear wall is to prevent the slider 58 from exiting at one end, any blocking or barrier member that blocks the passage of the slider can be used. As is apparent from the foregoing, the embodiment of FIGS. 20-23 supports the slider 58 again supporting the slider bag 50.

39 and 40 show an embodiment similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 20 to 23. In this embodiment a series of channels 552, preferably (but not necessarily) parallel to each other, are passed through the retaining device 550 angled to the horizontal. Each channel 552 has a first section 525 and a second section 526. The first section 525 is large enough to accommodate the slider 58. In one embodiment, the second section 526 is smaller than the first section 525 such that the slider 58 is retained within the first section 525. Optionally, an interference member similar to that shown in other embodiments may divide the first section and the second section. Retention device 550 may include any number of parallel channels 552. In addition, the retaining device 550 may be attached to the shelf 560 by inserting the end of the shelf 560 into the slot 558 as shown, or by any of the attachment methods disclosed herein. Such a retaining device 550 can be used to close and support the slider bag 50 via the slider 58 as described in connection with other embodiments disclosed herein.

39 and 40 have the advantage that the weight of the article stored in the bag tends to support the closure of the bag. It makes the bag easy to use for both those who are not affected by physical disabilities and those with limited manual skills. Another advantage is that if the bag is released before full closure, the bag has a tendency to close itself. That is, the user is somewhat certain that the bag is completely closed when in doubt as to whether he has moved the slider to the fully closed position.

24 to 29 show another three embodiments of the retaining device of the present invention. The retaining device in those embodiments can be used to close and support the slider bag but is only a closing device in that it cannot be used to support opening the slider bag. Each device shown in FIGS. 24-29 has a support member 621 and suspended retaining members 623, 624. In the apparatus shown in FIGS. 24-27, the channel 636 formed by the retaining members 623, 624 has a uniform cross section along the entire length of the channel 636. The distal portion 634 of the retaining members 623 and 624 defines a slot 630 having the same size and features as the slot in another retaining device as described above. At each end of the channel 636 is one or more interference members 627. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 24-27, the interference member 627 consists of the ends of the retaining members 623 and 624. As shown in the previous embodiments, the interference member may optionally take many different shapes and / or may have protrusions that narrow the channel 636 only at the end of the retaining device. Similar to the previous embodiment, the interference member 627 prevents the slider 58 from passing along the device while at the same time allowing the closing strip 56 to be moved or passed through the retaining device.

In both FIGS. 28 and 29, the retaining device has a first section 625. However, the first section 625 of FIG. 28 is bounded by a single surface 688 closest to the slot 630. In FIG. 29, the first section 625 is bounded by surfaces 688 and 689 on both sides. Surface 688 may be reinforced by an optional reinforcement member in the form of a reinforcement plate or web 690.

30-33 illustrate a retainer for a slider bag that supports a particular slider bag that includes one or more protruding end stoppers in the form of clips or modified ends 760. Such retaining devices include retaining members 723, 724 defining recesses 794 and support members 721 secured to any desired support surface by an adhesive strip 738. The recess 794 is sized to accommodate the projecting end stopper 760 and is also through the slot 792. The width of the slot 792 is sized such that both the closing strip 56 and the back side panel 52 can pass through the slot 792 but the protruding end stopper 760 cannot. Each distal portion 734 of the retaining members 723, 724 has an interference member in the form of a shelf or flange 796 that supports the projecting end stopper 760, and each shelf 796 has a retaining device. At an open end of the upright protrusion or protrusion. The protrusion 798 is sized such that the end stopper 760 can be inserted beyond the protrusion 798 into the recess 794 but the end stopper 760 is held in a predetermined position so that it is not accidentally removed from the holding device. It becomes The retaining device includes a protruding end stopper 760 and a rear wall 770 that prevents the bag from exiting the retaining device in the rearward direction. As is apparent from the foregoing, the apparatus shown in FIGS. 30-33 supports the bag via the end stopper 760.

34 and 35 show a retaining device similar to that shown in FIGS. 24 to 29. In this embodiment, the channel 636 is formed to a size such that the projecting end stopper 660 can pass through the retaining device but not the slider 58. 34 also shows a hanger 699 as an alternative attachment to the retaining device. 35 shows an apparatus for holding the slider bag by the closing strip 56 with the slider 58 in the closed position.

38 shows another embodiment of the present invention in which three support rods 950 are attached to the support member 921. The rod 950 is cylindrical in shape and has a semicircular cross section with flat sides. The spacing of the rods 950 forms a slot 930 into which the slider bag 50 can be inserted such that the slider 58 and / or the closing strip 56 are flush with the flat surfaces of the two neighboring rods 950. It is disposed below the slot 930 adjacently. The wall of the bag 50 passes through the slot 930 between the next pair of rods 950 across one of the rods 952, except for the end rod 952 without other rods adjacent thereto. Exception. That is, the article stored in the bag 50 is conveniently located under the rod 950. The bag 50 containing the article is easily removed by pulling the bag 50 in the axial direction of the rod 950.

Referring now to FIG. 19, another embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this embodiment, the means for supporting the retaining device 1020 includes two hanging clips 1072 that allow the retaining device 1020 to be suspended from a support structure such as a wire rack, coat hanger, or the like (not shown). It is done. Such a hanging clip 1072 is shown molded at the top of the retaining device 1020, but an optional crimping device known to those skilled in the art replaces the clip 1072 and in any suitable form the top of the retaining device 1020. Or fixed to another surface. Such optional clip may be fixedly attached or rotatably attached to the retaining device 1020. In addition, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 19, the distal portion 1033 of the retaining members 1023, 1024 lies coplanar with the edge of the support member 1021. The flat lateral surface of the retaining members 1023, 1024 allows for an alternative location of the adhesive strip that can be used to mount the retaining device 1020 to a support surface, such as a vertical wall.

FIG. 42 illustrates multiple holding devices according to another embodiment of the present invention, which are formed integrally or fixed to each other to obtain an integral structure. According to this embodiment, the holding device 1120 includes three holding substructures 1144 supported by a single support member 1121. The holding devices 1120 may have any one of the shapes described or shown herein, but each holding infrastructure 1144 has the same shape as that described with reference to FIGS. . Each substructure 1144 has mirror image holding members 1123 and 1124 formed on one side 1122 of the support member 1121. Each of the holding members 1123, 1124 has a proximity 1133, a remote 1134, and two ends 1135. A channel is formed between the pair of holding members 1123 and 1124. Each channel 1136 includes a slot 1130 formed by the remote portion 1134 of the holding members 1123 and 1124. Further, each channel 1136 is one second section (not shown, but not shown) separated from the first section 1125 by two first sections 1125 and a neck 1127. The same shape as the section 1126). In addition, each of the substructures 1144 has two retaining members 1128 at each end 1135. The support member 1121 includes a multiple fastening hole 1137, and a user uses the fastening device such as a screw or a nail (not shown) to open the holding device 1120 through the multiple fastening hole 1137. Can be attached to the desired position.

In operation, the user inserts one or more slider-type bags into the one or more channels 1136, in the form as mentioned above, so that the bags are supported by the holding device 1120. Thereafter, the slider of the bag is in contact with the holding member 1128 and its movement is suppressed. Accordingly, the bag can be easily opened by simply moving the bag with respect to the holding device 1120. After opening the bag and using the article therein, the user closes the bag by moving the bag in an opposite direction relative to holding device 1120 to engage the slider with one of the ends 1135.

43-46 is a Hefty OneZip bag 1200, Glad Clicklock, manufactured by Pliant Corporation and associated with the holding device 621 shown in FIGS. 24-27 above. ) Bag 1202, Presto Sureseal bag 1204, and slider-type bag 1206 are shown. As already mentioned, all of the bags may optionally be used in connection with the embodiments described herein, and various elements of the holding device may be associated with one or more bag structures used to support the bag. And its dimensions are determined.

Also, depending on the exact scope and shape of the articles held by the slider bag, one or more single or integral holding devices may optionally be attached onto a wall or other vertical surface. Each holding device is then arranged on a horizontal or non-horizontal plane. For example, as shown in FIG. 47, a number of holding devices 1210a, 1210b, 1210c of similar or identical type as described in the embodiments herein are applied to the vertical support surface 1212 by suitable means, such as a double-sided tape. It can be mounted in a form arranged horizontally on the top. In this case, the slider bag 1214 is supported by the holding device 1210a in the same manner as mentioned above. However, the slider bag 1214 is not in the form of being suspended vertically downward of the holding device, and the side panels of the slider bag are seated on or folded over one of the remote portions of the holding member. Other bags (eg, bag 1216 shown in dashed lines) are also supported by holding devices 1210b and 1210c in a similar manner, so that the bags overlap in shingled configuration.

Figure 48 shows another embodiment of the present invention. According to the present embodiment, the support member 1321 is a refrigerator shelf, and the holding device 1320 is integrally formed with the support member 1321. The holding members 1323 and 1324 extend from the first side 1322 of the support member 1321, or the operation and shape thereof are the same as those of the holding members described with reference to FIG. Of course, this illustrates one type of shelf that can be provided according to the present invention. This embodiment may be implemented in the same form as mentioned above, in the form of the lower surface of the cupboard, closet, cabinet shelf, and storage.

49-52, yet another embodiment of the present invention is shown. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, but according to this embodiment the first section 1425 is large enough to fully house or surround the slider 58 of the bag 50. Has a size. In addition, the first and second holding members 1423 and 1424 have a retaining member 1428 in a similar shape to the retaining member shown in FIG. 4 at its inlet 1432. 49 to 51, the holding device 1420 is parallel to the first and second holding members 1423 and 1424 and is attached to the first holding member 1423. It includes. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 49, the attachment of the first holding member 1423 is made by a first bridge member 1447 which connects the support member 1421 to the first holding member 1423. . It can be seen that such attachment is possible at any point of the first holding member 1423. According to another embodiment as shown in FIG. 51, the support member 1421 may be integrally formed with the second holding member 1423. In this case, the first and second holding members are connected by the second bridge member 1449 as shown in FIG. In addition, as shown in FIG. 52, the attachment may also be made to the first and second holding members 1423 and 1424 described with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 49, retaining device 1420 includes magnet 1451 attached by adhesive or other known attachment means to side 1442 of support member 1421 opposite retaining members 1423 and 1424. do. The magnet 1451 may be attached to a refrigerator or other metal surface. The embodiment shown in FIG. 51 uses fixing holes or slots 1437a and 1437b in the support member 1421. The user may secure the retainer 1420 by inserting the shank of the fixture 1439 through the fixing holes or slots 1437a and 1437b into the surface. Each retainer 1423, 1424 has a cutout portion 1453, which allows the user to reach the fixing hole or slot 1437a. Preferably, although not indispensable, in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 49 and 50, once the retaining device 1420 is secured, each of the magnets 1451 or the fastener 1539 can be used as a bag (not shown). Is inserted into the device 1520 so that the walls of the bag are suspended parallel to the surface to which the retainer 1420 is secured. Once the bag (not shown) is inserted into and supported by the device 1420, the walls of the bag lie in a second plane 1469 parallel to the first plane 1467. In other words, the second plane 1469 is provided by the channel 1434 and the slot 1430 of the device 1430 and is parallel to the first plane 1467.

FIG. 52 shows a retainer 1420 that can hold three bags while having three pairs of retaining members 1423, 1424 similar to the pairs shown in FIGS. 49 and 51. Retention device 1420 is secured by fixtures 1439 that are driven into the surface through fixing slots or holes 1435 in support member 1421. Similar to the retaining device described in connection with FIG. 1, each of the retaining members 1423, 1424 has a distal end 1434 that provides a slot 1430. As shown in FIG. 52, the slot has a longitudinal size that provides a line 1473. The support member 1421 provides a plane 1467 that traverses the line 1473.

49-52 show that the bag is retained in the first section 1425 by the slider 58 of the bag 50 by its interference with the interference member 1428. When moved in the direction, it provides the advantages of the embodiments of FIGS. 39 and 40 and the additional benefit of helping to open the bag 50 by the user. Thus, greater help is provided to those who are not very dexterous.

53 shows yet another embodiment of the present invention. The retainer 1520 is similar to the retainer 20 of FIG. 1 except that the support member 1521 is adapted to be suspended from one side of a shelf 1555 such as a refrigerator, cabinet, pantry, closet, or the like. Do. The support member 1521 includes a first portion 1557 and a second portion 1559. Retainers 1523, 1524 extend from the first side 1522 of the first portion 1557 at or near one end of the first portion 1557. The second portion 1559 also extends from the first side 1522 of the first portion 1557 at or near the end of the first portion 1557 opposite the retaining members 1523, 1524. do. In operation, the second portion 1559 is seated on the shelf 1555, and the first portion 1557 and the retaining members 1523, 1524 extend below the shelf 1555. The side surface 1542 of the first portion 1557 opposite the retaining members 1523, 1524 is in contact with sidewalls 1561 of the refrigerator, cabinet, pantry, closet, and the like. Bag 50 is suspended from members 1523 and 1524 in a manner described in connection with certain embodiments described above, down from retainer 1520 and along sidewall 156. This embodiment allows for the effective use of the space underneath the past refrigerators, cabinets, pantry, cupboards and the like.

In each of the embodiments described herein, a method for moving a slider of a thermoplastic bag includes contacting a slider with a retainer, applying a first force to the thermoplastic bag in a first direction, and in a second direction. Applying a second force to the retainer to cause the thermoplastic bag to move relative to the retainer and slider. The first force may be applied by a user's hand or other force transmission element. The second force may be imparted by a user's hand or the retainer may be secured to a fixed or movable object and the force may consist of a resistance or access force imparted by the object.

Clearly, single or ganged multiple retainers are used that are secured to a vertical support surface, a horizontal support surface, or a non-horizontal or non-vertical support surface in a particular shape and / or orientation required by the user. Can be maintained in the required arrangement, including side to side, overlap (ie, overlapping arrangement) and cascading (ie, arrangement where one is placed on top of the other without the bags touching). .

The retainer of the present invention can be made mostly of certain rigid materials such as plastic, glass, metal, wood and similar materials. Only important features of the constituent materials are that they are relatively rigid, inexpensive and can be reliably molded into the required shape. Suitable plastic materials include polypropylene, polyethylene, styrene, nylon, and various other similar homopolymer and copolymer materials. Typically, the retainer is shaped as a single piece, but multi-component constructions can also be used without departing from the invention. Certain suitable molding techniques, such as injection molding and thermoforming, can be used to form the devices. Additionally, the retainers can be formed of multiple parts that can be snapped or compressed together during manufacture and assembly. Another known manufacturing method utilizes the flexible features of thin regions of molded parts to fold or snap a single flat molded (molded) part into three-dimensional retaining rods as shown.

Although the present invention has been described as supporting the bag via closure strips, end stops or sliders, instead, slider bags 56 that are wider than the combined thicknesses of slider bag walls or side panels 52. It will be appreciated that the bag may be supported via other parts of the. These portions include various types of ribs or rails that may be added to one or more of the extensions of the closure strips or the side panels 52 of the slider bag. One example of such a structure includes the rails 660 shown in FIG. 27, which keep the slider 58 on the closure strips 56. In general, these structures may be disposed between the closure strips and the top of the bag, but are disposed between the closure strips and the bottom of the slider bag. In addition, instead of being supported by one of the closure strips, end stops, sliders or other portions, the bag may be supported by a combination of these structures, if desired. That is, the holder may comprise multiple interference portions; These multiple interference portions simultaneously interfere with the multiple bag portions such that the multiple bag portions are seated on them and the bag is supported.

The above embodiments enable the user to solve various home storage problems. Firstly, the retainers allow the user to store and organize the reclosable bags to make the best use of the available storage space. For example, in refrigerators, cabinets, pantrys, cupboards, etc., the present invention allows the user to suspend the bag from the bottom of the shelf, thereby increasing the likelihood that it will be used before the decay of certain perishable foods.

Another advantage of the present invention is to ensure complete sealing of the bags used. In certain embodiments, the slider is held in place and the bag slides into the device to enable the user to ensure that the bag is completely sealed and the contents remain securely and securely within the bag. These advantages are particularly useful with regard to food storage because food in the bag will remain fresh for longer periods of time if it is sealed from the surrounding environment. This type of use also provides the advantage that a very inexperienced user can more easily use reclosable bags.

It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be variously modified from the above description. Accordingly, it is to be understood that the above descriptions are exemplary only, and are intended to provide the best mode for those skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The exclusive rights of the present invention are provided by the following claims.

Claims (96)

A retaining device for a thermoplastic bag having a side panel, a reclosable seal at one end, and a slider for opening and closing a reclosable seal, Support surface; And A pair of elongated retaining members each having a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent the support surface and defining a channel, The channel has a first section for accommodating the slider and a second section for accommodating a portion of the bag, the channel further comprising a slot defined by the distal portion of the retaining member, wherein the slot comprises a side panel of the thermoplastic bag in the slot. A retaining device for a thermoplastic bag, which can enter but has a width sufficient to prevent a portion of the bag from passing through the slot. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the bag portion comprises a closing strip. 2. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the bag portion comprises a rail. 2. A retaining device according to claim 1, wherein the bag portion includes an end stopper. 2. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the first section has a portion that obstructs the slider. 2. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the first section includes a recessed portion in which the slider is disposed. 2. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the recessed portion is defined by an upright retaining member that prevents the slider from exiting the recessed portion. 2. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the retaining members includes a portion that interferes with the bag portion. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein each retaining member includes a portion that interferes with the bag portion. 2. A retaining device according to claim 1, wherein the retaining member comprises a recessed portion for receiving the slider at its opposite end. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the first section further comprises a ramp extending from the support surface toward the distal end of the retaining member and partially blocking the first section. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the support surface defines a first plane and the slots and channels define a second plane perpendicular to the first plane. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the support surface defines a first plane and the slots and channels define a second plane parallel to the first plane. The method of claim 1, wherein the support surface further comprises a first section and a second section, the first section having first and second ends, the retaining member adjacent the first end, and the second section being And a retention device extending perpendicularly from the first end to the first section. 2. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the slot has a longitudinal extension forming a line, and the support surface defines a plane across the line. A retaining device for a thermoplastic bag having a side panel, at one end, a reclosable seal comprising a pair of opposed interlocking closing strips, and a slider for opening and closing the reclosable seal, Support surface; And A pair of elongated retaining members each having a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent the support surface and defining a channel, The channel has a first section for receiving and enclosing a portion of the slider of the thermoplastic bag and a second section for receiving only the closure strip of the bag, not the slider, the channel being through a slot formed by the distal portion of the retaining member, the slot being A holding device for a thermoplastic bag, wherein the side panel of the thermoplastic bag can enter the slot but has a width sufficient to prevent the closure strip from passing through the slot. 17. The retaining device of claim 16, wherein there are first sections at both ends of the channel. 17. The retaining device of claim 16, wherein the first section is at only one end of the channel. 17. The retaining device of claim 16, wherein the first section comprises one or more retaining members. 17. The retaining device of claim 16, wherein the first section does not include a retaining member. 17. The retaining device of claim 16, wherein the length of the first section is shorter than the length of the slider. The retaining device of claim 16, wherein the support surface comprises means for supporting the retaining device. 23. The holding device according to claim 22, wherein the supporting means is an adhesive strip attached to a side of the support surface opposite the holding member. 23. The retaining device of claim 22, wherein the support means is a clip. 17. The retaining device of claim 16, wherein the support surface is a peripheral clip. 26. The retaining device of claim 25, wherein the clips are spaced to fit each other on two parallel rods of the rack. 17. The retaining device of claim 16, wherein the first section of the channel has one or more open sides. 17. The retaining device of claim 16, wherein an interference member is disposed between the first and second sections of the channel. A retaining device for a thermoplastic bag having a side panel, a reclosable seal at one end, and a slider for opening and closing a reclosable seal, Support surface; And A pair of elongated retaining members, each having a distal portion, defining a channel, at least one of which is disposed adjacent the support surface, The channel comprises first and second sections, wherein the first section is sized to receive at least a portion of the slider of the thermoplastic bag and is wider than the second section, the channel being defined by the distal portion of the retaining member. And a slot, wherein the width of the slot is narrower than the width of the second section of the channel. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein there are first sections at both ends of the channel. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein there is a first section only at one end of the channel. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein the first section comprises one or more retaining members. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein the first section does not include a retaining member. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein the length of the first section is shorter than the length of the slider. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein the support surface comprises means for supporting the retaining device. 36. The retaining device of claim 35, wherein the support means is an adhesive strip attached to a side of the support surface opposite the retaining member. 36. A retaining device according to claim 35, wherein the support means is a clip. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein the support surface is a peripheral clip. 39. The retaining device of claim 38, wherein the clips are spaced to fit each other on two parallel rods of the rack. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein the first section of the channel has one or more open sides. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein an interference member is disposed between the first and second sections of the channel. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein both retaining members are positioned adjacent to the support surface. 30. The retaining device of claim 29, wherein only one of the retaining members is positioned adjacent to the support surface and the retaining device further comprises a bridge connecting the retaining member. A closure strip comprising a sealable end, the closure strip sealing the sealable end being disposed at the end, and further comprising a slider for closing the closure strip, the width of the slider being wider than the width of the closure strip. A retainer for a closed thermoplastic slider bag, Support surface; Approximately parallel to one another, integrally attached to the support surface, defining a channel having a length and two ends, each end of the channel being opened as an open slot extending along the length of the channel between the retaining members, the slot being A pair of elongated retaining members narrower than this channel; And A retaining device for a recloseable thermoplastic slider bag, the interference member interposing the channel of the bag while allowing the closing strip of the thermoplastic slider bag to pass therethrough. 45. The retaining device of claim 44, wherein the interference member defines an opening that is wider than the closure strip of the slider bag and narrower than the slider of the slider bag. 45. The retaining device of claim 44, wherein the interference member has one or more protrusions extending into the channel at a distance sufficient to prevent passage of the slider but to allow passage of the closing strip. A method of storing an article, Placing an article in a storage bag comprising a closure strip and a slider mounted to slide on the closure strip; Providing a retaining member that defines the channel while being supported by the support surface, wherein the channel has a width wider than the first thickness in the first portion of the bag and is smaller than the first thickness, Further including a slot having a greater width; And Sliding the first portion of the storage bag into the channel such that the slider is in contact with and moved by the retaining member toward the closed position, while the first portion of the storage bag is in an interfering relationship with the retaining member. The storage method of the article to make. 48. The method of claim 47, wherein sliding the first portion of the storage bag into the channel comprises inserting a slider into the recess of the retaining member. 49. The recess of claim 48, wherein the recess includes a first recess portion that receives the slider when the slider is first inserted into the recess and a slider disposed below the first recess portion and initially inserted into the recess. And a second recess portion for receiving. 50. The method of claim 49, wherein the second recessed portion is disposed adjacent the locking member that prevents the slider from being removed from the recess when the slider is disposed in the second recessed portion. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the support surface consists of a horizontal surface. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the support surface consists of a vertical surface. 49. The method of claim 48, further comprising securing the retaining member to a support surface. 54. The method of claim 53, wherein securing the retaining member to the support surface comprises adhering the retaining member to the support surface. 54. The method of claim 53, wherein securing the retaining member to the support surface comprises fastening the retaining member to the support surface. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the support surface consists of a wire rack. 59. The method of claim 56, further comprising securing the retaining member to a wire rack. 58. The method of claim 57, wherein the retaining member comprises a support member and the step of securing the mounting member consists of fitting portions of the wire rack to the support member. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the support surface consists of a shelf surface. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the closing strip is disposed in a horizontal orientation as the first portion of the bag slides into the channel. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the closing strip is disposed in a vertical orientation as the first portion of the bag slides into the channel. 49. The method of claim 48, wherein the closing strip is disposed in a clove different from vertical and horizontal clove as the first portion of the bag slides into the channel. 49. The method of claim 48, further comprising placing another article in an additional storage bag that is approximately equal to a designated storage bag, providing an additional retaining member that is substantially identical to and adjacent to the initially designated retaining member; The first portion of the bag is slid into the channel of the additional retaining member such that the slider of the additional storage bag is brought into contact with and moved by the additional retaining member toward the closed position, while the first portion of the additional storage bag is moved further. And in an interfering relationship with the storage method. 64. The method of claim 63, wherein the initially designated storage bag is placed in a relationship that lies on top of the additional storage bag. 66. The method of claim 63, wherein the initially designated storage bag is placed in a side-by-side relationship after the additional mortgage bag. A retaining device for a thermoplastic bag having a side panel, a reclosable seal at one end and comprising a pair of opposed interlocking closing strips, a slider for opening and closing the reclosable seal, and a projecting end stopper, comprising: Support surface; And A proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent to the support surface, respectively, defining a channel, the channel having a slot formed by the distal portion of the retaining member and a first section enclosing and enclosing a portion of the slider; And a pair of elongated retaining members having a width sufficient to prevent an end stopper from passing through the slot, although the closing strip of the thermoplastic bag can enter the slot. 67. The retaining device of claim 66, wherein at least one of the retaining members includes a portion that interferes with the end stopper. 67. The retaining device of claim 66, wherein each retaining member comprises a portion that interferes with the end stopper. A retaining device for a thermoplastic bag comprising a side panel, a reclosable seal at one end of the bag, the reclosable seal comprising a pair of opposed interlocking closure strips, and a slider for opening and closing the closure strip, Support surface; And A channel having a proximal portion and a distal portion adjacent to its support surface, each having a slot formed by a distal end of the retaining member and a first portion that receives and encloses a portion of the slider, wherein the slot is formed of a thermoplastic bag. And a pair of elongated retaining members, wherein the closure strip can enter the slot but has a width sufficient to prevent the slider from passing through the slot. 70. The retaining device of claim 69, wherein at least one of the retaining members includes a portion that interferes with the end stopper. 70. The retaining device of claim 69, wherein each retaining member includes a portion that interferes with the end stopper. A method of supporting a thermoplastic storage bag comprising a closure strip, an end stopper at one end of the closure strip, a slider disposed on the closure strip, and a rail for retaining the slider on the closure strip, comprising: Providing a support member and a holder coupled to the support member and defining a channel therebetween, wherein the at least one wall comprises an interference portion; Inserting the bag into the channel such that the slider is partially in contact with the holder and moved from its initial position; And And supporting the bag in a holder by releasing the bag such that at least one of the closure strip, rail, end stopper, and slider interferes with the interfering portion. 73. The method of claim 72, wherein the closure strip comprises a rail, and wherein emitting the bag comprises allowing the rail to lean against the interference portion. 73. The method of claim 72, wherein discharging the bag comprises causing the end stopper to lean against the interfering portion. 73. The method of claim 72, wherein discharging the bag comprises causing the slider to lean against the interference portion. 73. The method of claim 72, wherein the interfering portion includes one or more members supported by one or more walls. 77. The method of claim 76, wherein the wall includes a portion defining a recess for receiving the slider. 77. The method of claim 76, wherein each wall supports the interference portion. A method of supporting a thermoplastic bag having a closure strip and a slider disposed on and closing the closure strip, the method comprising: Providing a holder having a support member and a pair of walls coupled to the support member and defining a channel therebetween; Inserting a reclosable thermoplastic bag into the holder such that the slider of the bag is received in the channel and the bag is supported by the holder; And And applying a force to the bag to move the bag relative to the slider to maintain the bag in a substantially fixed position and allow the closing strip to pass through the slider. 80. The method of claim 79, wherein applying force to the bag causes the bag to open. 80. The method of claim 79, wherein applying force to the bag causes the bag to close. 80. The thermoplastic bag of claim 79, wherein the thermoplastic bag comprises a slider type bag selected from the group consisting of Ziploc® with Easy Zipper bags, Hefty OneZip® bags, Glad®Clicklock bags, Presto®SureSeal bags, and bags made by Pliant Corporation. Support method characterized in that. As a method of moving the thermoplastic bag, Contacting the slider with the retaining device; Applying a first force to the thermoplastic bag in a first position; And Applying a second force to the retaining device in a second position such that the thermoplastic bag is moved relative to the retaining device and the holder. 84. The method of claim 83, wherein a first force is applied by the user's hand. 86. The method of claim 84, wherein the holding device is attached to the surface by supporting means. 86. The method of claim 85, wherein the support means consists of an adhesive strip. 86. The method of claim 85, wherein the support means consists of screws. 84. The method of claim 83, wherein a second force is applied by the user's hand. As a method of moving the slider of the thermoplastic bag, Contacting the slider with the retaining device; Securing the retaining device; Catching the bag; And Moving the captured bag relative to the retaining device and the slider. 90. The method of claim 89, wherein the slider is moved to an open position. 90. The method of claim 89, wherein the slider is moved to a closing reason. 93. A method according to claim 89, wherein the step of securing the retaining device is implemented by attaching the retaining device to the surface by means of the supporting means. 95. A method according to claim 92, wherein the support means consists of an adhesive strip. 95. A method according to claim 92, wherein the support means consists of screws. 97. The method of claim 92, wherein moving the bag is implemented by applying force by a user's hand. 93. A method according to claim 92, wherein the step of securing the retaining device is implemented by applying a force by the user's hand.