MX2008006227A - Container having internal reservoir - Google Patents

Container having internal reservoir

Info

Publication number
MX2008006227A
MX2008006227A MX/A/2008/006227A MX2008006227A MX2008006227A MX 2008006227 A MX2008006227 A MX 2008006227A MX 2008006227 A MX2008006227 A MX 2008006227A MX 2008006227 A MX2008006227 A MX 2008006227A
Authority
MX
Mexico
Prior art keywords
tray
opening
container
lower wall
container according
Prior art date
Application number
MX/A/2008/006227A
Other languages
Spanish (es)
Inventor
Jon Michael Larue
Craig Edward Cappel
Frank Andrew Petlak
Original Assignee
Craig Edward Cappel
Jon Michael Larue
Pactiv Corporation
Frank Andrew Petlak
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Craig Edward Cappel, Jon Michael Larue, Pactiv Corporation, Frank Andrew Petlak filed Critical Craig Edward Cappel
Publication of MX2008006227A publication Critical patent/MX2008006227A/en

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Abstract

A container (100) includes a first tray (220), and a second tray(110) disposed within the space of the first tray to define a reservoir therebetween. The first tray has a first bottom wall (325) and a surrounding first sidewall (321), which extends generally upwardly from the first bottom wall to define a space therein. The second tray has a second bottom wall (113) and a surrounding second sidewall (111), which also extends generally upwardly from the second bottom wall. The second bottom wall has at least one aperture (115) defined in a central region thereof, and also has an upper surface, which slopes downwardly toward the at least one aperture. The reservoir defined between the first and second trays (110, 220) is in fluid communication with the aperture (115).

Description

RECIPIENT THAT HAS INTERNAL DEPOSIT Background of the Invention Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a packaging container. In particular, the present invention is directed to a container for the packaging of products or other articles capable of exuding liguids, wherein the container has an internal reservoir for the collection of the liguids exuded therefrom.
Description of the Related Art The common containers for the packaging and display of meat, agricultural products and other products for consumers, are made of plastic foam, or cardboard and in general, are simple concave trays that have a film cover or overwrap. Consumers prefer to buy items such as meat products, poultry, seafood and products that release liguid, in dry packings. However, the amount of the liquid residing in the food container normally increases with the passage of time, as the product ages and exudes at a high rate. As a result, retailers often re-wrap the bundle, further reduce the sale price of the product, or remove the product from the bag due to the consumer's perception that the product could be spoiled. In addition, this liguid could escape the empague if the empague was not well sealed. To reduce the problems caused by the liguid exudates inside these containers, the absorbent pads are usually placed or glued on the bottom of the container, usually between the container and the contents of the package. While effective, these pads can be relatively expensive and have limited absorbency. Also, these pads can tear, tend to adhere to the contents of the container and freeze with the contents when they are frozen, all of which causes inconvenience to the consumer and an added cost. Absorbent pads tend to dry the product with which they are in contact when purging the product more evenly than if it were otherwise in a natural way. Also, the liquid held by the absorbent pad can be squeezed if the pad is pressed, which could occur as a result of handling or due to the force exerted by the overwrap of the film. These pads also tend to leak fluid when products are marketed on their side.
In addition, work is provided to insert the pads into the containers, sometimes with a hot melt adhesive and additional quality inspection is also required to ensure proper placement of the pads. A self-absorbing tray that uses an open cell foam structure is another solution used to absorb excess fluids. The material becomes absorbent when the holes are drilled through the surface of the tray. While it is effective to reduce the labor required for the insertion of the pads, the open cell tray structure is generally weaker, increasing the possibility of the trays being bent, cracked or broken during the wrapping and transport processes. of the product. Depending on the design of the tray, the open cell trays can purge moisture through the tray and transfer the liquid to the consumer's hands. Some open cell foam trays change color when they are saturated with fluid and therefore, are unpleasant for consumers. In addition, open cell trays offer a limited amount of absorption. Trays loaded with large amounts of meat can easily overwhelm the absorbent capacity of the tray, resulting in an unabsorbed collection of the lint in the bottom of the package. The double wall trays, which contain an absorbent pad between the outer tray and the inner tray are expensive and also have limited absorption. Moisture is introduced into the absorbent core through holes in the inner tray. In the same way that the open cell tray, the liguid within the pad has the propensity to be purged and to leak away from the upper edges of these types of trays. In addition, the process used for the manufacture of these trays originates a rough edge which tends to perforate the film wraps, which also causes the leakage of the liguid from the container. Packaging that contains an absorbent pad, either glued on the inside or interspersed between the inner and outer trays, generates a packaging container comprised of many different materials. The added work and the required cost to remove the absorbent materials from the pack prevent the recycling of this pack. The trays have also been designed to capture liguids without an absorbent padding allowing the fluids to fall by means of gravity in a space between the two sheets of plastic material, the liguid passes through the holes formed in the sheet on which it is placed the product. In these trays, drainage happens through many holes provided in a flat surface, on which the product is placed. Therefore, if the tray simply flipped over or was displayed on its side, the liguids would easily exit the containment area. Accordingly, these products can not be displayed on any of their sides or their ends without the leakage of liguids from the containment area. In addition, in this type of tray, the direct contact of the meat with the surface of the tray blogs many of the drainage holes, which prevents the passage of the lines towards the containment area. Accordingly, there remains a need to provide an effective and economical means for the containment of exuded liquids and the collection of exudates within the containers for the packing of products that exude a liquefied product, such as meat products, agricultural products and other products.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The purpose and advantages of the present invention will be pointed out and are apparent from the description which follows, as well as, they will be learned by practicing the invention. The additional advantages of the invention will be realized and achieved through the methods and systems indicated, in particular, in the written description and the claims thereof, as well as from the attached figures. Therefore, an object of the invention is to provide a baking tray for products that tend to release liguids, avoiding the drawbacks of the existing trays indicated above. In order to achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the invention, which are broadly included and described, the invention comprises in one aspect, a container having a first and second trays. The first tray has a first lower wall and a first surrounding side wall that extends, generally, upwards from the first lower wall to define a space therein. The second tray has a second lower wall and a second surrounding side wall which extends, generally, upwards from the second lower wall. The second lower wall has at least one opening located within a central drainage region thereof and an upper surface sloping downwardly in the direction of the opening. The central drainage region is close to the center or the center line of the upper surface, depending on the specific mode. The second tray is located within the space of the first tray to define a reservoir therebetween and the reservoir is in fluid communication with the opening. According to another aspect of the invention, the first and second trays are adhered to each other. While thermal sealing techniques are preferred for this purpose, adhesive, cohesive, lip-wrapping, mechanical bending, ultrasonic welding, vibration welding, guiding bonding, mechanical press fitting and induction welding or combinations of They can also be used to join the first and second trays. In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, a bottom wall and a side wall of the first tray may include elements cooperating with the second tray to assist in self-aligning the trays during assembly. According to another aspect of the invention, the first and second trays can be joined reciprocally along one edge during forming, so that the edge acts as a joint and a seal that lines the two trays and also for seal the edge of the container in order to avoid leakage or leaks. Alternatively, the union or coupling along the edge may be partial, being able to work only to align the trays but not to seal them.
According to another aspect of the invention, the second tray is located within the space of the first tray to define a reservoir therebetween which is in fluid communication with the opening (s), wherein at least one portion of the first and second side walls are separated from each other to define a chamber of the reservoir therebetween. According to another aspect of the invention, the chamber formed by the first and second side walls maintains the level of the fluid so that it is at or below the level of the opening (s) when the container is tilted over any from its sides. According to a further aspect of the invention, the upper surface of the second lower wall includes a configuration or elevated surface shape. In some embodiments, a second lower wall of the second tray, which slopes downward toward the center of the container, in combination with a first lower wall of the first tray which inclines upwards in the direction of the center of the container, generates a cross-section of approximately an hourglass shape which favors the movement of the liquid towards the tank, while also favoring the movement of the liguid in the deposit outside of a central drainage region. Advantageously, this shape also directs the liquid in the reservoir out of the opening when the container is tipped. In a preferred embodiment, the positioning of the opening (s), relative to the edges of the container and the container, is such that a first volume of liquid is capable of being retained within the container when the container is oriented. in a first position which is substantially equal to a second volume of the liquid capable of being retained within the reservoir when the container is oriented in a second position. The first and second positions can be any of the positioning of the tray, generally, in a horizontal position on the front or rear side, in general, in a vertical position on one end or an edge, or at any angle between them. . These guidelines are based on storage, transport and merchandise display regiments for the contents of the container. In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, the reservoir defined by the trays is ventilated using configurations or shapes of the first and / or second trays. Specifically, one or both of the trays can be formed, so that an air passage is generated in a side wall that releases air from the reservoir, in particular, the air that is displaced by the liquid entering the reservoir. Deposit. The first and second trays can be configured to create a ventilation chamber and a path that prevents the flow of the liquid, even allowing the free passage of air. The sintered materials can be advantageously used to ventilate the reservoir, also allowing the air to escape by preventing the leak from escaping. These materials prevent the leakage of august and allow the passage of gases. In accordance still with a further aspect of the invention, a one-way valve is provided in communication with the opening to prevent the flow of the tank liquid through the opening. According to another aspect of the invention, the first and second trays include bottom wall and side wall flanges. As such, the upper surface of the first lower tray or tray may include cooperating elements supporting the second tray, the cooperating elements extend from the first tray to the lower face of the lower wall of the second tray. The second tray can be provided with coupling depressions, which correspond in location with the cooperation elements of the first tray. The cooperating elements act to support the contents of the container by holding the second tray, thereby reducing the possibility that the contents of the tank will be crushed out of the tank under pressure.
In accordance with yet a further aspect of the present invention, each embodiment includes elements that facilitate the flow of the liquid below the contents of the tray, which prevent the contents from blogging the drainage openings of the second tray. The elements can be, for example, high surface shapes or shallow surface configurations. The raised surface protrusions may extend upwardly from the upper surface of the second lower wall, and may be of a round or elongated shape. The surface protrusions can be aligned in a radial or non-radial position with respect to the central drainage opening (s), they can be perpendicular to at least one edge of the second side wall and can be separated from the opening (s). (s) The surface protrusions may also be continuous upward of the side wall of the second tray to allow the fluid and released from the upper portion of the contents to have access to the drain opening (s) and the reservoir. If depressions were provided to facilitate the flow of the liquid, these depressions could be formed in the lower wall of the second tray and could for example have the form of grooves or channels. These depressions can also be radial or non-radial, in relation to the opening (s).
According to a further aspect of the invention, the depressions on the underside of the first tray correspond to the raised shapes of the upper face of the second tray. The raised shapes or features may be in the form of ridges or other shapes. The coupling nature of these configurations allows a reduced stacking height of the containers when they are stored or shipped, and they aid in the coupling of the stacking to cause a more stable stacking, while the raised forms also help to raise the contents of the tray. to avoid blogging the drainage opening (s). According to another embodiment of the invention, a container including a first and second trays is provided. The first tray is divided into a plurality of cells, each of which has a lower cell wall and a surrounding cell side wall. Each side wall extends, generally, upwards from the corresponding lower cell wall to define an individual cell space. The second tray has a plurality of drainage areas, each of which corresponds to one of the cells of the first tray. Each drainage area has a bottom wall with at least one opening in a central region of the wall. The bottom wall of each drainage area has an upper surface that slopes downward toward the opening (s) of the drainage area. The second tray further includes a surrounding sidewall which extends, generally, upwardly from the plurality of drainage areas. Each drainage area of the second tray is located within a respective cell space of the first tray, thus, each defines a corresponding reservoir therebetween. Each tank is in fluid communication with a respective opening. For each of the embodiments described in this document, the first and second trays may have any desired shape, for example, rectangular or circular. The first side wall can extend upwards and outwards from the first lower wall at a first angle approximately between 15 and 90 degrees, depending on the mode. The second side wall can extend upwards and outwards from the second lower wall at a second angle, which is equal to or less than the first angle in order to define a chamber between the first side wall and the second side wall . In some modalities, the first lower wall of the container has a central region aligned with the opening of the second tray and an upper surface of the first lower wall slopes away from the central region. The same principle can be applied to a container that has multiple cells. In addition, a valve can be incorporated in one or more openings. This valve can be a one-way valve such as a ball-type or sheet-type valve. A sheet-type valve (i.e., a valve formed by several flexible sheets that rest on a frame and allows passage in one direction) includes a membrane that extends through the opening (s) and is secured at the opposite ends thereof on the bottom surface of the second tray. Preferably, the membrane is adhered to the lower part of the first tray. Preferably, the reed valve has two parallel seals spaced the same distance from the central drain. Even a sticky amount of liquid passing from the second tray to the reservoir will cause the membrane to flex from the lower surface of the second tray and allow the liquid to enter the reservoir. Preferably, the membrane is longer than the drainage opening (s). When the container is tilted on an edge or flipped over, the pressure of the liquid on the underside of the reed valve improves the seal between the reed valve and the surface of the container, thus preventing the liquid from leaving the container. Deposit. As an alternative, ball valves, duckbill valves or umbrella valves can be used.
In any of the foregoing embodiments, the second lower wall may have a lower surface that slopes, generally, upwardly out of the opening. Also, in any of the foregoing embodiments, an edge of the aperture (s) may protrude downward in the direction of the reservoir space to help avoid leakage of the fluid through the aperture by providing a barrier to this leak. It will be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide a further explanation of the claimed invention. The accompanying figures, which are incorporated and constitute a part of this specification, are included to illustrate and provide additional understanding of the invention. Along with the description, the figures serve to explain the principles of the invention.
Brief Description of the Figures Figure 1 is a plan view of a container having an internal reservoir according to the invention. Figure 2 is an isometric view of the container having an internal reservoir shown in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional side view of the container having an internal reservoir shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a cross-sectional side view of an alternate embodiment of the container having an internal reservoir according to the invention, wherein a wall of the lower tray slopes out of the drain opening. Figures 5-7 are isometric views of the container having an internal reservoir shown in Figure 1, with variants of the drainage openings. Figures 8A-C illustrate an alternative container having an internal reservoir. Figures 9A and 9B illustrate a top view in isometric and a bottom isometric view, respectively, of a container tray having axial flanges according to the invention. Figures 10A-D illustrate an alternate embodiment of the container having an internal reservoir, according to the invention, wherein drainage channels are provided. Figures 11A-D illustrate a further alternate embodiment of the container having an internal reservoir according to the invention, wherein drainage channels are provided. Figure 12 illustrates a container having an internal reservoir, in accordance with the invention, wherein substantially radial support flanges are provided. Figures 13A-B and 14A-B illustrate a container having an internal reservoir, in accordance with the invention, wherein substantially radial support flanges and vents are provided. Figures 15A-F illustrate an alternate embodiment of a container having an internal reservoir, in accordance with the invention, wherein high transverse surface shapes are provided on the lower tray to support the upper tray. Figure 16 is a top view of another representative embodiment of a container having an internal reservoir, according to the invention. Figure 17A is an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a container having multiple drainage regions and separate internal reservoir cells, according to another aspect of the invention. Figure 17B is a cross-sectional view of the container of Figure 17A. Figures 18A-B illustrate an alternate embodiment of a container having an internal reservoir, according to the invention, which is particularly suitable for use with relatively large and heavy contents. Figures 19A-C and 20A-B illustrate alternate embodiments of a container having an internal reservoir, according to another aspect of the invention, wherein the liquid is drained along a circumferential edge of the inner tray. Figure 21 illustrates a sheet type valve for use with a container having an internal reservoir, according to the invention. Figure 22 illustrates a tray that has a ball valve and an internal reservoir, according to the invention. Figures 23A-B, 24A-C, 25A-B, 26A-D and 27A-C illustrate variants of the ball valves for use with a container having an internal reservoir, in accordance with the invention. Figure 28 illustrates an alternate embodiment of an inner tray for use with a container having an internal reservoir, according to the invention, wherein the upper tray is provided with drainage elements to guide the exudate of the upper surface of the containers. packaged contents Figures 29-31 and 32A-C illustrate a preferred embodiment of a container having an internal reservoir, according to another aspect of the invention. Figures 33-41, 42A-D and 43-46 illustrate alternate embodiments of a container having an internal reservoir, according to the invention. Figures 47 and 48 are schematic views illustrating the advantages of the particular tray geometry according to the invention. Figures 49 and 50 illustrate one embodiment of a container having an internal reservoir, according to another aspect of the invention, wherein the container has a structure that prevents clogging of the drain opening. Figures 51A and 51B illustrate one embodiment of a container having an internal reservoir, according to another aspect of the invention, wherein a joint is provided to connect the first and second trays. Figures 52A-D illustrate various embodiments of lip wrapping techniques for sealing together the first and second trays of a container having an internal reservoir, according to the invention. Figure 53 illustrates an embodiment of a container having an internal reservoir, according to another aspect of the invention, wherein the direct surface configurations extend up the side wall to a height below the flange.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Modality In the following, reference will be made in detail to the currently preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying figures. The apparatus and the related methods presented in this document can be used for the packaging of any product, particularly a product that exudes a high temperature. The present invention is particularly suitable for the packaging of meat products, agricultural products and other perishable products. According to the invention, a container comprising a first and second trays is provided. The first tray has a first lower wall and a first surrounding side wall that extends, generally, upwards from the first lower wall to define a space therein. The second tray has a second lower wall and a second surrounding side wall which extends, generally, upwards from the second lower wall. The second lower wall has at least one opening in a central region thereof, and an upper surface that slopes downward in the direction of the opening. The second tray is located within the space of the first tray to define a reservoir therebetween, and the reservoir is in fluid communication with the opening. For the purpose of explanation and illustration and not as a limitation, an example embodiment of the container according to the invention is shown in Figure 1 and is designated, generally, by reference character 100. As shown in FIGS. Figures 1-3, which illustrate top views, in isometric and lateral cross-section of the container 100, respectively, the container 100 generally includes a first tray 220 and a second tray 110. Preferably, the first "lower" tray or tray 220 is larger than second tray 110, with a side wall 321 and a lower wall 325 which define a recessed space. Preferably, the space is large enough to accommodate at least a portion of the second tray 110, but essentially the entirety of the second tray 110. The second tray or "upper" tray 110, which includes a lower wall 113 and a wall side 111 is supported or fitted within the first tray 220 as shown in Figure 3. As it is included herein, the outer edge 112 of the second tray 110 is supported and it is preferred that it be joined to the outer edge 327 of the first tray 220. The side wall 111 of the second tray 110 connects the edge region 112 with the bottom wall 113 of the second tray 110. In a preferred embodiment, a flange is provided on the edge of at least one of the regions edge 112, 327. Preferably, the joining of the two trays is effected through any suitable connection and preferably watertight, such as thermal or adhesive welding techniques, cohesive, ultrasonic or chemical welding. Other known types of bonding techniques can be used, such as mechanical interconnection or tightening techniques for joining the two trays. The union of the first tray 220 and the second tray 110 creates an enclosed volume or reservoir 330. At least one opening 115 is defined in the lower wall 113 of the second tray 110, so that it is in fluid communication with the reservoir . According to another aspect of the invention, the second tray 110 further includes one or more surface configurations 117, which extend above or below the upper surface of the lower wall 113 of the second tray 110. The shapes or configurations surface areas 117 include the high surface shapes, such as ridges or protrusions, or alternatively, depressions formed in the upper surface of the bottom wall 113. The surface configurations 117 may be formed in a variety of desired amounts or patterns. Preferably, the surface shapes 117 are formed to assist the flow of exudate liquid to be directed towards the opening 115, and thus the reservoir 330. The surface forms 117 further support the product which will be packaged above the upper surface of the lower wall. 113 to minimize contact with the exudate lug and prevent contents from clogging the opening 115. In the embodiment of Figure 3, the surface forms 117 are protrusions having a generally hemispherical shape, although they may be configured in a variety of ways and sizes, such as elongated ridges (see Figures 14A-14B) and / or may be located in a variety of patterns, such as a radial or substantially non-radial pattern, relative to the aperture 115. Additionally or alternately, the High surface shape can be defined by the recessed channels (see Figures 11A-11D). According to another aspect of the invention, at least one opening 115 is provided in or adjacent to the central region of the second tray 110. If desired or needed, depending on the contents of the container, a plurality of openings in the container may be provided. a central region of the second tray 110. The opening (s) are formed in the second tray 110 through any convenient process. However, it is preferred that the opening (s) be formed by the trimming process followed by another shaping process such as molding, if a polymeric foam material is used. Advantageously, the trimming process can be performed to produce a lip 319 around the circumference of the opening, which extends downward toward the reservoir 330. This lip 319 helps resist the flow of the liquid out of the reservoir, particular way, when the container is oriented in an inverted position. If desired, the lip 319 can be manufactured in an alternating manner, such as through the molding process of the tray. Additionally or alternatively, aperture (s) may be formed, so that at least a portion of the material that is trunked to form the aperture (s) remains attached to the second tray. For example, and according to one modality, the total limit of the biased cut is not separated from the second tray. Instead, the trog is configured to divide a biased cut around the edge that defines the opening (s) that extend a smaller distance than the total perimeter of the opening (s). Accordingly, a portion of the biased cut remains connected to the rest of the second tray. The biased cut can be pressed down in the direction of the first tray to allow the liquid to move towards the inner reservoir. This configuration is advantageous because it avoids the need to discard or otherwise secure the biased cut which is completely divided from the second tray.
Preferably, the top surface 113a of the bottom wall 113 of the second tray 110 tilts at least slightly toward the opening 115 to assist in the drainage of the lines through the opening 115 and into the reservoir 330. Alternatively, the bottom wall 113 is configured so that when a product is placed in the tray, the tray flexes to define a downward inclination in the direction of the opening 115. The bottom wall 113 may have a full uniform thickness or may be varied as desired. As such, the shapes or configurations of the upper surface 113a of the lower wall 113 need not control or limit the configuration of the lower surface of the lower wall 113. For example, the lower wall 113, as well as the lower wall 325 of the first tray 220, if desired, can increase or decrease its thickness with respect to the distance of the opening (s) 115. As such, the upper surface 113a of the lower wall 113 can be tilted upwards from the opening (s) 115, while the lower surface 113b slopes downwards. In use, the reservoir 330 captures the liquids that are exuded from the product maintained or located within the space of the second tray 110. The liquid passes from the product along the upper surface 113a of the lower wall 113 and into the opening 115. The liguid is collected in tank 330. Through the opening a valve can be placed, as described in more detail below, the geometry of the opening and the container is preferred to be self-sufficient to avoid backflow of the reservoir values 330. For example, and in addition according to another aspect of the invention, some embodiments include an approximately hourglass cross-sectional shape, which utilizes a lower wall 325 having an upper surface that slopes outside the opening 115 to direct the lines out of the opening 115. In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, it is preferred that the tank 330 include one or more chambers 335 defined between the side wall 111 of the second tray 110 and the side wall 321 of the first tray 220. The chambers can be relatively discrete, defined by a separation between the side walls or can be defined by an expanded region in one or both of the trays. The expanded region can be defined by an outer projection formed in the first tray 220 in the side wall 321, for example, or in the second tray 110 in the side wall 111. As illustrated in the container 100 of Figures 1-3 , the chamber is formed by a projection of the side walls 321, 111 of the first tray 220 and the second tray 110, respectively. When inclined towards or on an edge, the liquid collected in the reservoir 330 moves towards the edge and falls into the chamber 335. While providing an additional volume for the exudate when the container is oriented out of the horizontal plane, the Side cameras 335 provide additional benefits. For example, the cameras prevent inadvertent "splashing" of the liguids when the container is displaced or moved abruptly. The projection forming the chambers 335 of the container 100, may include the alignment of sidewalls 111 and 321 in parallel to each other separated from each other. Alternatively, the side walls can be aligned at different angles relative to their respective lower walls 113, 325. Preferably, the general angle of the side wall 111 of the second tray 110 is smaller or deeper relative to the wall lower than the angle of the side wall 321 of the first tray 220 relative to its lower wall 325. As such, the side walls 111, 321 diverge from each other, outside the edge portion 112, 327. Accordingly, it can get an increase in volume of the deposit. further, this manufactured increase in the width of the Chamber can allow the flexing of the second tray 110. In this way, when they are placed contained within the container 100, the chamber 335 is not compressed to a range in which the volume is reduced further beyond the tolerable degree and that the chamber 335 is not isolated from the remainder of the reservoir 330. Similarly, by providing the side walls at an angle, when the container 100 is returned to the horizontal position, the fluid flows smoothly downwardly from the container. the side wall 321 of the first tray 220. If necessary, the liguid can proceed upwards from the inclination of the opposite side wall, in this way, "oscillates" and maintains an eguilibrium condition. Figure 4 illustrates a container 400, in which the upper surface 413a of the lower wall 413 of the second tray 410 slopes downwards in the direction of the opening 415, and in which the upper surface 423a of the lower wall 423 of the first tray 420 slopes down out of the area of the opening 415. In cross section, this mode configures an approximately hourglass shape. The liquid entering the opening 415 falls on the central region 424 of the lower wall 423, and due to gravity, flows down towards the lower region 431 of the tank 430, outside the central region where the liquid is then retained . The purpose of this feature is to favor or direct the exudate liguids out of the aperture 415 to prevent the lines from inadvertently spilling or escaping through the opening 415. In this embodiment, the inclined bottom surface 413b of the bottom wall 413, in conjunction with the reservoir chambers 435, if provided, they similarly direct the trapped liquid within the chamber out of the opening when the container 400 is flipped. That is, the lower surface of the inclined lower wall 413 directs the outside the opening 415, whereby the release of the tank 430 is prevented. Figures 8a-8c illustrate an alternate embodiment of a container 800 according to the invention. The container 800 includes an inclined lower wall 813 of the second tray 810 guiding the liguids towards the opening 815 and in the direction of the reservoir 830. The reservoir is defined between the first tray 810 and the second tray 820. In this embodiment, they are not provided the superficial forms or the side chambers. Similarly, Figure 16 illustrates another embodiment of a container according to the invention. The container 1600 includes a first outer tray 1620 and a second inner tray 1610 having an opening located in the central position 1615. In this embodiment, the floor 1613 of the second tray 1610 includes a plurality of substantially flat slanted floor portions 1616 which are provided with intersect along substantially radial folds 1614 in each scout. In the same way as with the above embodiments, the exudate is guided down from the floor 1613 of the container 1600 to the opening 1615, and towards the reservoir. Additional features described herein, such as high surface shapes, chambers and valves, may be included. In addition, the deposit (not shown) may include any or all of the features described above. Likewise, alternative embodiments of the lower wall providing an inclination toward the opening, such as spoke, parabolic and conical configurations, are contemplated. In any of the above or following embodiments, at least one opening (e.g., central opening 115, 415) may be of any suitable shape or size and as noted above, may alternately include a plurality of openings within a central region. Figures 5-7 illustrate containers 500, 600 and 700, each with variations of the openings located in the central position. The container 500 includes an opening approximately in the shape of X 515, with the arms of the opening 515a located between the surface forms 117, and vice versa of the second tray. Accordingly, the opening 515 can be located between and very close to the surface shapes 117, thereby helping to ensure that the contents of the packet do not obscure the opening 515. Optionally, a channel 514 can be provided in the bottom wall 513 to aid in the drainage of exudate liguids towards the opening (s). Figure 6 illustrates a container 600 having a plurality of openings 615 defined in a central region of the lower wall 613 of the second tray. In the same way as with the embodiment of Figure 5, the openings 615 are configured adjacent the surface shapes 117 so as not to be obscured by the contents placed inside the container 600. Figure 7 illustrates a container 700 having a central opening. 715 that is elongated. It is conceived that the provision of a geometry different from the circular geometry facilitates the use of the central opening as a ventilation, in addition to the drainage opening. Generally, the size of the openings (e.g., openings 115, 415, 515, 615) can be sized in almost any size. However, it is preferred to use a suitable size that is large enough to allow drainage and ventilation, if necessary, yet sufficiently glued to prevent spillage. Therefore, the preferred opening size will be a function of the number of openings provided, if ventilation is required or provided by an alternative vent hole, by the characteristics of the fluid (eg, viscosity, surface tension). and by the expected speed of flow, among other factors. For example, by providing a plurality of openings, a more sticky opening size can be used to accommodate the same flow rate as a single opening of larger size. The total amount of the opening area can be calculated by adding up the total area of each individual opening. In this way, by providing a plurality of more sticky openings over a large area, the risk of spillage can be reduced, as well as, any compromise with the integrity of the lower wall of the second "upper" tray or tray is reduced. In contrast, it is nonetheless beneficial to guarantee a suitable opening area to accommodate the required functionality. Meanwhile, due to the above reasons, a more sticky opening may be desirable, there are additional considerations to be made when reducing the size of the opening. First, for very sticky openings, the surface tension of the liguid can provide a substantial obstacle to proper drainage. For these holes and even larger ones, if the opening is not large enough to allow the air from the tank to escape while entering the tank, then the drain will also be impeded. In this case, a separate ventilation arrangement may be provided, as described below. Also, if a valve is used, the opening must be large enough to accommodate the valve. Depending on the valve, ventilation may also be required. As an example, an opening having an approximate diameter of 0.47625 cm (3/16 inch) or larger, can normally accommodate the effluent of the contents of the tray while still allowing air to escape from the tank. Figures 9a and 9b illustrate an isometric top view and a bottom isometric view, respectively, of a variable configuration for a second "top" tray or tray 910. The second tray 910 includes longitudinal and width flanges, edges oriented in axial direction 914 which are placed in the inclined lower wall 913 thereof. These ridges help to reinforce the container and prevent the contents of the container from obscuring the central opening 915. Aungue the opening 915 can be configured in any way, as described above, the opening 915 illustrated has a circular body 915a with extensions axial 915b. These extensions may be aligned with one or more ridges to define a vent at the apex of each flange 914. As can be seen from the bottom view of Figure 9b, the flanges are formed in the bottom wall 913 so as to extend above the upper surface 913a of the lower wall 913, while maintaining a generally uniform wall thickness. Accordingly, material savings are achieved, while a more effective and stronger first tray 910 is obtained. Figures 10a-10d illustrate a further embodiment of a container 1000 according to the invention. The container 1000 includes a plurality of ridges 1016-1019 located in longitudinal and lateral position in the second tray 1010 of the container 1000. The ridges of Figures 10a-10d are wider and more contoured than those of Figures 9a and 9b. As for the container of Figures 9a and 9b, however, the ridges 1016-1019 define the raised surface elements supporting the contents above the lower wall, and the exudate channel exudates from the contents of the package towards the opening of the container. drain 1015 and reservoir 1030. As included herein, reservoir chambers 1035 are provided between the side walls of the first tray 1010 and the second tray 1020, although they are not necessarily for this embodiment. In addition to directing the lines towards the opening 1050, the ridges 1016-1019 create a space below the contents of the pack so that the lines pass into the opening 1015. In addition, the ridges 1016-1019 can help reinforce the second tray 1010 According to another aspect of the invention, Figures 11A-11D illustrate a container 1100 having a series of channels 111a provided in the bottom wall 1113 of the second tray 1110 of the container 1100. The function and advantages of these channels lllla-d are similar to agüellas of the rims of the container 1000 of Figure 10. That is, the channels define the high surface elements that support the contents of the bundle above the opening to avoid the blogging and define the flow paths to effect of directing the liguid towards the opening. Advantageously, the channels III-D represented in FIGS. 11A-11D are narrow, so that the contents placed in the packet can more easily join the channels III-D, in this way, the obstruction of the flow of water is avoided. liguid towards the opening 1115 of the reservoir 1130. Each of the Figures 12, 13a-13b and 14a-14b represents a container having a second tray with similar elongated and elevated surface shapes. In Figure 12, for example, the surface shapes 1217 are located in a generally radial position relative to the central opening 1215. As shown in Figures 13b and 14b, which illustrate a bottom view of the second tray 1310 and 1410, respectively, the surface shapes are formed in the lower wall of the second tray 1210, with a generally uniform wall thickness. Alternatively, the raised surface shapes 1217, 1317 can be created by means of a thick-walled area, wherein the lower surface of the lower wall would not have a recess corresponding to the raised area, but rather a generally flat array. As shown in Figure 12, the lower wall of each embodiment has an upper surface that slopes toward the central opening, while the upper surface of the surface forms is relatively flat. This aspect provides a decrease in the resistance to the liquid so that it flows below the contents of the pack 1200, by raising the contents outside the lower wall 1213 of the container 1200, more next to the opening 1215. The mode of the second "upper" tray or tray 1310 of Figures 13a and 13b is substantially similar to that of Figure 12, although it includes a vent 1370 for aerating the reservoir, which is below the surface of the lower wall 1313. While the it is not always essential for the proper operation, if the opening 1315 is glued, or if an unventilated valve is inserted in the opening, the ventilation could be desired and / or regulated to allow the gas to be inside the exhaust tank while the liguid is entering the deposit. Ventilation of the embodiment of Figures 13a and 13b is in a liquid communication with the reservoir and essentially extends to the upper edge of the rim or flange 1311 of the second tray 1310. A ventilation aperture 1374 can be placed in any one of the ports. Place along the vent 1370, preferably even in an upper end surface 1375 of the vent 1370. The vent opening can itself include a valve, or it can simply be an opening. The size of the ventilation opening can be previously selected so that it is sufficiently sticky, so that the gases can escape from the reservoir, while the surface tension of the liquid in the reservoir prevents the leakage of the liquid. For example, an opening in the shape of a "tiny hole" could be desirable. When the second tray 1310 is joined with the corresponding first tray, the main body of the ventilation 1370 guarantees the free passage of the gases out of the tank through a hole different from the central opening. In addition, the embodiment illustrated in Figures 13a and 13b allows ventilation of the reservoir even if the side walls of the first and second trays are in contact with each other. That is to say, the tray need not be provided with side reservoir chambers, such as chamber 1335 of Figure 3 to allow venting of the reservoir. Similarly, the portion of the second tray 1410 of Figures 14a and 14b includes an integral ventilation and surface configuration 1470. The integral ventilation and surface configuration 1470 extends along the bottom wall of the second tray and toward above the side wall of the second tray portion 1410. A vent hole 1473 is provided at the upper end of the surface form 1470. As seen from the isometric bottom view of Figure 12b, a panel 1476 may be to be applied to the undersurface of the second tray portion 1410 to form a substantially enclosed ventilation duct within the ventilation and surface configuration 1470. This duct allows for the easy passage of the gases even though it is an impediment or hindrance to the liquefied they may tend to flow into the vent opening 1473. For example, if a tray having the vent configuration As shown, it will turn on one end or turn, so that the portion 1470b is directed downward, the liquid in the container would be prevented from reaching the ventilation opening 1473 through the panel 1476, due to the the liquid would have to enter through hole 1470c. The panel 1476 may be of any suitable shape, which includes not limited to a self-adhesive plastic film. Figures 15a-15f illustrate another embodiment of a container according to the invention. The container 1500 includes a second tray 1510 having the high transverse surface shapes 1551a-1558a which define the raised surface shapes to elevate the contents of the tray above the lower drainage region 1517. The surface forms 1551a-1558a also create chambers deposit between the second tray 1510 and the first tray 1520. The reservoir 1535 is comprised, at least partially, of these chambers 1551c-1558c, which can best be observed in Figure 15e. These chambers correspond and are defined on the upper limit by the surface shapes 1551a-1558a, respectively and correspond to the configurations of the first tray 1520. The first tray can be free of any of the surface contours, or can be provided with surface contours aligned (e.g., 1582) or out of alignment (e.g., 1552b, 1553b, 1556b and 1557b) with the surface shapes of the second tray to adjust the volume of the chamber. The reservoir chambers (for example, chambers 1551c, 1552c, 1553c and 1554c, which are shown) retain the liquid, although advantageously, they prevent the stored liquid from moving freely within the reservoir 1530, and therefore, In addition, the recessed portions that are formed in the first tray 1520, such as the recessed portions 1581b and 1582b, define the cooperation elements supporting the second tray 1510, thereby reducing the probability of leakage of the reservoir 1530 through the opening 1515. and therefore, they also help to support the contents placed in the second tray 1510. The recessed portions (e.g., 1581b and 1582b) make contact with the bottom surface of the bottom wall 1513 of the second tray 1510 in the respective regions as it is indicated by reference numbers 1581a and 1582a, respectively. The central detents 1571 in the first tray 1520 can also be provided to support the second tray 1510. Therefore, the non-recessed portions of the first tray 1520 designated with reference numerals 1555b, 1556b, 1557b and 1558b cooperate with the respective transverse high surface shapes 1555a, 1556a, 1557a and 1558a to create a symmetrical set of 1551c chambers, 1552c, 1553c and 1554c. In the same way as with the modalities described above, the reservoir 1530 and the chambers (for example, the chambers 1551c, 1552c, 1553c and 1554c) can extend along the side walls of the first tray 1520 and the second tray 1510 to define the cameras between them.
Figures 17a and 17b illustrate a tray according to another aspect of the invention, wherein a plurality of drainage areas 1713a-c are provided. This feature is particularly useful in relatively large trays, although it can also be incorporated into tray trays. Each drainage area 1713a-c includes at least one respective opening 1715a-c in a central region thereof. The bottom wall of each drainage area 1713a-c of the second tray 1710 is preferably inclined to its respective opening (s). The raised surface shapes 1717 as described above can be provided on the second tray 1710. The first tray is divided into a plurality of cells, with each cell corresponding to a respective drainage area. The opening (s) 1715a-c of each drainage area are in fluid communication with a respective cell 1730a-c, so that a reservoir is defined therebetween. Each reservoir is defined between a lower surface of the second tray 1710 and the upper surface of the first tray 1720. The cells 1730a-c are divided by the walls 1721, 1722 formed in the first tray 1720. As included in FIG. present, the walls 1721 extend across the width of the tray, substantially perpendicular to the interception side wall. Figure 17b essentially shows the walls 1721 at the same distance from the openings (two of 1715a-c) associated with the respective adjacent drainage areas (eg, two of 1715a-c) are being separated. Walls 1721 may terminate at each side wall (e.g., side wall 1726) or may continue to the side wall if a chamber is provided between the first and second trays, such as chamber 1735c. The container 1700 is provided with the reservoir chambers 1735a and 1735c associated with the cells 1730a and 1730c, respectively. Preferably, the manufacture of the container 1700 includes the assembly and joining of at least two pieces (e.g., the first tray 1720 and the second tray 1710). If desired, the cells 1730a-c may additionally be sealed together by providing a sealing or adhesive line along the top of the walls 1721 and 1722. Alternatively, a forced fit may be sufficient, so The pressure in the joint prevents leakage of the liquid around the wall. Still in alternate form, a mechanical connection interface can be used. Finally, the flanges 1711 (Figure 17A) can be provided to improve the stiffness of the sidewalls of the container and further, help to maintain the contents of the tray out of the sidewall. This can facilitate the drainage of the upper part of the contents so that they drain between the contents and the side wall so that they flow into the reservoir cells 1730a-c. Figures 18a and 18b illustrate a further embodiment of a container according to the invention. The container 1800 is particularly suitable for use as a container for cooking, displaying and / or storing larger products, such as roasted chickens or a whole chicken. In a manner similar to the previous embodiments, the container is provided with a first outer tray 1821 second inner tray 1810, at least with a central opening 1815 that allows the lines to drain toward the reservoir 1830. Preferably, the materials of this embodiment they are selected to withstand the oven temperatures, so that the food can be cooked in the trays, or alternatively, which can be stored in a hot plate and / or under heat lamps without melting or becoming less stable. In the same way as with certain of the above embodiments, the first tray 1820 and the second tray 1810 cooperate to provide support to the second tray 1810 and the contents that rest on it. For example, a recess or spacer 1817 is provided in the second tray 1810, which is supported between two protrusions 1821 and 1822 that are provided in the first tray 1820. The additional cooperating spacers 1823, 1824 and 1825 are provided in the second tray 1810 As included herein, the spacers 1823 are conical, so that the weight of the contents on the bottom wall of the second tray 1810 flexes the bottom wall downward to allow the exudate to move toward the opening. Aungue is not shown in the embodiment of Figures 18a and 18b, the reservoir chambers can be defined between the side walls of the first and second containers, to additionally contain the exudates in the concealed reservoir. In addition, the first and second trays shown in this embodiment are sealed in some way along the edge region, designated by the reference number 1819. An "exact" fit could be sufficient to prevent the liguids from escaping from the reservoir 1830, however, a sealing lip or bonding process, such as thermal welding, may be used. Figures 19A-C and 20A-B illustrate alternate embodiments of the container according to a different aspect of the invention. In these embodiments, more to include a central opening for drainage of the exudate, a peripheral separation is provided along at least a portion of the bottom wall of the second tray for the purpose of allowing the liquid to drain out. of the edge of the second tray (inside) and in the direction of the tank 1930.
The first and second trays can be connected or joined in a variety of different ways. For example, containers 1900 and 2000 show two alternative ways in which the second trays (1910, 2010) can be connected with a respective first tray. When assembled, the two modalities appear similar, as represented in the assembled isometric view of Figure 19A. As seen in Figures 19A and 19C, the second tray 1910 has the support projections 1913, since it is substantially hollow below. Aungue is not essential, it provides an increase in the volume of the deposit. The liguid is exuded from the contents 1990 and drained along the upper surface 1911 towards the peripheral channel 1922. In the connection of Figures 19B and 19C, the second tray 1910 fits into the first tray 1920 and includes the slots. 1916 through which the liguid can pass to the deposit region. These trays can be joined, if desired, in any conventional manner, such as by adhesives or melting. In Figures 20A and 20B, the second tray 2010 is press-fitted onto the cooperating portion 2023 of the first tray 2020. In this embodiment, a longitudinal flange 2023 cooperates with the fastener 2013, which is immobilized around the flange 2023 and As such, the liguid only needs to pass under the second tray 2010 so that it is out of sight. A variety of alternatives for this construction can be used. Compared with the embodiments described above, containers 1900 and 2000 have the benefit that the contents of the containers would not normally be able to blog flow to the reservoir, because drainage essentially limits the container boundary. However, because the liquid drains through the edge of the containers 1900 and 2000, the containers can not be placed, without a valve, on the edge without the leaking leak from the container. Accordingly, a valve can be provided, as noted below. Figure 21 illustrates the use of a sheet-type valve 2140 which prevents the return of flow or counterflow of the liguid of any of the deposits described above. While this valve is shown positioned over an opening 2115 in a tray similar to that in Figure 1, the valve can be used in the same way with a tray having a plurality of openings as shown in Figure 6, or with multiple trays of drained region of Figures 17A and 17B. In general, the reed valve is a flexible core joined at least along one edge to the lower surface of the lower wall of the second tray. Preferably, the web is joined along the opposite edges to allow flexing thereof. As illustrated, the reed valve 2140 is applied to the lower surface of the lower wall of the second tray, in this case, the second tray 2110 shown without a first tray for the purpose of clarity. In the same way as in the above embodiments, the blank 2171 is drained downward through one or more openings, as indicated by dotted line 2115. The blank impinges with a portion of the sheet valve 2140 in the area of the blank. (s) aperture (s) 2115. The liquid deviates from the central region 2141 of the reed valve 2140, or is otherwise diverted by the capillary effect to the sides, then passes between the upper surface of the valve of sheets 2140 and the lower surface of the second tray 2110, exiting by means of one or both sides 2145 of the valve towards the respective reservoir or cell of the reservoir. The reed valve may be joined with the second tray 2110 in any suitable manner to allow the valve to flex sufficiently. As shown, an adhesive is applied in the end regions 2143a and 2143b, between the tray 2110 and the reed valve 2140. When a container having a reed-type valve 2140 is inverted, the reed valve prevents the rejection of the container. straight in the escape tank of the same.
The materials used for the reed valve should have adequate strength to the rigidity, so that the liquid can bypass the valve enough to allow the flow of the liquid and still to avoid the leakage of the liquid as described above. Preferably, a plastic material is used for the construction of the sheet valve 2140, such as a polystyrene, polyethylene (PE) film or an extruded polyethylene terephthalate (EPET) film. Preferably, the same material is used for the reed valve for the rest of the container in order to facilitate recycling. For example, a combination of an expanded polystyrene container with a foil valve of a polystyrene film would be advantageous. Any of a variety of alternative valve configurations can be used, depending on the need and costs. Figures 22-28 illustrate several ball type valves. In the same way as with the above embodiments, an outer tray 2220 and an inner tray 2210 are provided. In the embodiment of Figure 22, a valve 2280 is provided in the central portion of the second tray (e.g., in opening 115). ). Figures 23A and 23B illustrate views of a ball valve and the general principles with which the ball valve 2383 will operate in accordance with the invention. The ball 2381 is restricted within a ball cage 2380, which includes a lower limit 2383 and an upper limit 2382. The assembly 2383 is shown in a relative relationship with the first tray 2320, and the blank in the reservoir 2330 of the same As the liquid enters, the ball 2381, which is less dense than the liquid, floats above the liquid and allows the liquid to pass through assembly 2383. As the level of the liquid rises, as is the inclination of the container, the ball 2381 closes the opening 2387 which is provided in the assembly. In practice, the ball valve does not need to travel as far as illustrated in Figures 23A and 23B. In the embodiment of Figures 24A-C, the ball 2430 is strongly constrained between the side wall 2413, the top flange 2410 and the bottom flange 2420. The top flange 2410 includes the channels 2411 which guide the liquid toward the valve 2400. To assist in the assembly, this mode in the same way as the others, includes three parts that facilitate the assembly in an opening formed in a tray. The upper tab 2410 and the lower tab 2420 hold the valve assembly in the tray. Preferably, the lower flange is a separate part of the upper flange 2410 and the side wall 2413, joined thereto through any suitable means, such as by a screw type connection, an adhesive or a bonding process. The mode of the ball valve 2500 of Figures 25A-B includes an upper flange 2510, a ball 2530 and the drainage passages 2515. While the lower flange is not illustrated, it can be applied to one, or the valve 2500 can simply be inserted in a wall of the tray and can be secured in it. Figures 26A-D and 27A-C illustrate valves 2600 and 2700 that have integral vents that allow air and other gases to escape into the reservoir as the liquid enters. This would be beneficial if the space in the receptacle surrounding the ball (eg, space 2385) is not provided to allow the gases to escape as the liquid enters. In the same way as with the above embodiments, the upper flange 2610, 2710 and the lower flange 2620, 2710 are provided, as are the balls 2630, 2730. However, the ventilations 2640, 2740 are located in different locations in relation to the ball valve. In the valve 2600, the vent 2640 is in fluid communication with the space 2685 that surrounds the ball 2630. In the valve 2700, the vent 2740 is located adjacent the outer edge of the upper flange 2710, and is in fluid communication with the reservoir, separately from the space 2795 surrounding the ball 2730. Figure 28 illustrates another embodiment of the second tray or tray 2810 which has the drain recesses 2813a and 2813b in the side walls 2811 thereof to allow the liquid in the upper part of the contents of the container to drain into the reservoir. Aungue is illustrated on the opposite side walls, only a 2813a drain recess could be sufficient. Alternatively, more than two drainage recesses could be provided, if desired. As illustrated, the drainage recesses 2813a, b are associated with the floor channels 2811a, b, which lead the exudate to the drainage opening 2815. The characteristics of this mode, in the same way as other modalities, can be combined with the characteristics of any other modality. For example, the surface shapes 117 of Figure 1 can be used. Each drain recess 2813a, b intercepts the tray flange 2817 at its upper end. Therefore, flange 2817 can be made wider than otherwise required in order to accommodate drainage recess 2813a, b. This provides the necessary rigidity to the container, and also allows the coupling of the lower tray and a lid, if desired, as well as the handling of the container by the consumer.
Figures 29-31 and 32A-C illustrate a preferred embodiment of a container according to the present invention, as can be seen, a first tray 2920 and a second tray 2910 are joined along the interconnection 2925 by means of the tabs 2922, 2912. While thermal sealing techniques are preferred for this purpose, adhesion, cohesion, lip wrapping, mechanical bending, ultrasonic welding, vibration welding, guiding bonding, mechanical adjustment under pressure and induction welding or combinations thereof, can also be used to join the first and second trays. The second tray 2910 includes a plurality of raised surface shapes 2917, similar to the other embodiments, yet includes the surface shapes 2918 and 2919 that extend from the surface 2913 of the bottom wall 2936 of the second tray and continue upwards of the side walls 2921 of the second tray. The portion of the last type of raised surface shapes 2918, 2919 extending upwardly of the side walls 2911 creates channels 2929 therebetween which allow the leakage of the upper part of the packaged contents to reach the opening 2915 and the reservoir 3030. The surface shapes 2918 and 2919 further serve to provide rigidity to the side walls 2911 and the container 2900 as a whole, and as described above, serve to prevent excessive movement of the fluid within the reservoir 3030, in combination with the corresponding surface shapes 2928 of the first tray 2920. In a preferred embodiment, the surface shapes 2918 and 2919 only partially extend up the side wall to terminate at a position below the interconnection of the eyelashes of the skin. First and second trays, as illustrated in Figure 53. This configuration improves the structure integrity l of the side wall and provides improved crushing strength characteristics. In addition, the embodiment of Figure 29 and the related Figures includes a ventilation arrangement terminating at one end in the vent opening 2965. The intermediate elevated surface form 2967, which is otherwise similar to the other elevated surface shapes 2919 , acts as a channel or ventilation chamber. The vent channel is defined between the bottom surface of the second tray 2910 and another element, which could be the upper surface of the first tray 2920, or alternatively, an additional member, such as an adhesive strip or the like, as shown in FIG. described previously in connection with Figure 14b. As best seen in Figure 30, the reservoir 3030 is formed between the first and second trays 2920, 2910. The support of the elements 3023 in the first tray 2920 holds the second tray 2910, and prevents the weight of the contents in the tray excessively deforms the tray 2910 and thus prevents the storage volume change of the reservoir 3030. The second tray 2910 in this and any other mode may be of a smaller thickness than that of the first tray 2920. If the second tray 2910 will be manufactured as such, material savings can be realized, even more importantly, a thinner cross-section allows a more radical or abrupt geometry of the tray, specifically, of the high surface shapes. As such, the contents of the tray do not easily conform to the contours thereof, and therefore, do not easily obstruct the flow channels between them, as described below in connection with Figures 47 and 48 Also as can be seen in Figure 30, as well as in Figure 43, the raised surface shapes 3098, constituted in the first tray 2920, correspond to the surface shapes of the second tray, such as the surface shapes 2918. These further provide additional stiffness of the container 2900 as a whole, and prevent excessive movement of the liquid contained in the container 3030. Furthermore, these corresponding surface shapes facilitate stacking of the containers 2900 with each other and They save space when they are stacked for storage and transport. As can be seen in Figures 30 and 32A, for example, the surface shapes on the side walls of the first container 2920 can constitute the holder 3095 for the second container 2910. Figure 32A illustrates a cross section of the container 2900 cut along the length of the container 2900. line AA of Figure 31, which is illustrated with the line 3227 in the tank 3030, and with the surface of the upper flange 3912 resting on the bottom plane 3281. As can be seen, the line 3227 fills the chambers of reservoir side wall 3235 and inclination of inner face 3214 of the lower wall of second tray 2910 favors the flow of the fatigue 3227 out of opening 2915. In addition, a lip which is optionally provided on the underside of the lower wall of the second tray 2910, which surrounds the drain opening 2915, provides an additional obstruction to the liquid in the reservoir 3330 which could otherwise reach alir through the opening 2915. Figure 32B shows the container 2900 cut along the line AA of Figure 31, and also illustrates the sheet 3227 in the container 3030, with an edge of the upper flange 2912 being supported on the background plane 3282. Accordingly, the 3237 weight due to gravity is collected in what has become this orientation at the lower end of the reservoir 3030. Obviously, the last storage volume in this or any other position is limited by the position of the opening (s) 2915. The storage volume provided between the side walls of the first and second trays, through the reservoir chambers 3035, is particularly advantageous in this orientation, as it can be observed. Similarly, Figure 32C illustrates the container 2900 cut along the line BB of Figure 31, and also illustrates the sheet 3227 in the container 3030, with an edge of the side flange 2912 being supported on the plane of bottom 3283. The reservoir chamber 3035, defined by the side walls of the first and second trays, is substantially similar to the one illustrated in Figure 23B, even though the view has been taken through channel 2929 of the second tray 2910 (see Figure 31), camera 3250 appears to be more sticky in this figure, when it is simply a reduced width portion of side wall chamber 3035. Figures 33-41, 42A-D and 43- 46 illustrate yet another embodiment of a container 3300 according to the present invention, and variations thereof. In this embodiment, the raised surface shapes 3317 are distributed at regular intervals through the bottom wall 3313 of the second tray 3310 of the container 3300. Similar to the container 2900 of Figure 29, some raised surface shapes 2218, 2219 extend upward of the side walls 3311 of the second tray 3310. The first tray 3320 is joined to the second tray 3310 through the respective flanges 3312, 3322 in a common interconnect 3325. Any sealing method described herein, such as Adhesive, folded or rolled, can be used. As seen in Figure 34, a plurality of supports 3423 is provided in the first tray 3320 to hold the second tray 3310. While only two are illustrated in this embodiment, four supports are present although any number of supports could be provided, in function of the desired resistance of the container and the volume of the container. The high surface forms 3497, 3498 and 3499 are also provided for the reasons indicated above in connection with similar elements of container 2900 of Figure 29. As can be seen in Figures 33, 34 and 36, for example, a protrusion 3380 is provided in which A ventilation opening can be formed. As best seen in Figure 36, the vent can be formed in a recess 3383 in protrusion 3380. As such, any cap or overwrap material used on the tray will not blog the opening, and thus, will not It will prevent the air from escaping from the tank. Figures 36-41 are cross-sectional views of the container 3300 taken through the lines A-P shown in Figure 35, respectively. These cross-sectional views are shown by illustrating the manner in which the liguid 3327 in the reservoir 3330 is retained therein, even when the vessel 3300 is placed in different orientations relative to the bottom plane (3680, 3780, 3880). , 3980, 4080, 4180, respectively). The way in which the liguid 3327 fills the voids and chambers available from the reservoir 3330 can be observed, in the same way that volume storage can benefit from having the high surface shapes such as the surface forms 3317 shown, for example, in the Figures 37 and 40. Figures 42A-D illustrate the alternative shapes and configurations for the drainage opening (s). As shown, the opening may be circular 4215 or substantially rectangular 4216 as shown in Figures 42A and 42B, respectively. Alternatively, a plurality of openings 4217 may be provided between the raised surface shapes 3317. Other shapes, such as the approximately rounded X-shaped opening 4219 illustrated in Figure 42D for the opening (s) are also possible. . The cross-sectional view of Figure 43 illustrates the manner in which the raised surface shapes (e.g., 3317, 3318, 3319) of the second tray 3310 correspond to the high surface shapes (e.g., 3497, 3498) of the first tray 3320. Support elements 3423, which hold second tray 3310, can also be clearly observed in this figure. The opening (s) may be located adjacent to the raised surface shapes 3317, or they may be located at a predetermined distance therefrom. However, the elevated surface portion may be closer to the opening, whereby it is less likely that the opening will be blogged by the contents of the container. Other steps may be performed to prevent the blogging of the opening (s) by the contents of the container, such as increasing the height of the surface shape, providing a more radical geometry to the surface shapes and / or the application of a member to the raised surface shapes that surround one or more of the openings, as described in further detail below. Figure 44 illustrates a variation of the embodiment of Figure 33, in which a protection member 4416 is applied over a region of the second tray 3310 above the drainage opening. This protection member 4416 prevents the contents of the tray from blogging the drainage opening of the container 3300, although they still allow the liquid to pass below the contents, through the opening (s) and into the reservoir. The protection member 4416 can be relatively large or glued, in addition, it can cover one or multiple openings in one or multiple areas, it can also be impermeable or permeable and finally, it can be made from any suitable material. However, it is preferred that the protection member 4416 be made of the same material or a material that is compatible with the container material by itself in order to facilitate its recycling. For example, a polystyrene sheet material can be used in conjunction with expanded polystyrene trays. The protection member 4416 can be perforated or made from a permeable material that allows the liguids to pass through it., or can be substantially impermeable, only allowing the liguids to pass under the member and in the direction of the reservoir. If desired, the protection member 4416 can essentially cover the entire lower surface of the second tray 3310. As such, the guidewire can enter through the channels 3319 along the edges of the protection member, or through the protection member itself if it is permeable to the liquid. Figures 45 and 46 illustrate a top view and a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of Figure 45, respectively, of container 3300, where a reed valve (4518 or 4519) has been applied on the lower face 3313 of the second tray 3310. The reed valve can be square shaped, as indicated by line 4519. This reed valve operates as described above in connection with the reed valve 2140 of the Figure 21. Figures 47 and 48 illustrate the advantage of providing the second tray (eg, 4710, 4810) or any of the embodiments herein, with a relatively "sharp" or abrupt geometry. As shown in Figure 47, the shallow raised surface shapes 4717, which have relatively large radii and smooth contours, allow the contents 4770 of the tray to obscure the drainage passages 4719 and the drainage aperture 4715. In contrast, in FIG. the embodiment of Figure 48, the relatively sharp ridges of the raised surface shapes 4817 of Figure 48 help to prevent the contents 4870 from obscuring the drainage passages 4819 and the drainage opening 4815. Furthermore, since the height of the shapes Higher surface areas are increased with respect to the lower part of the drainage passages, the passages will be less likely to be blogged by the contents. Figures 49 and 50 illustrate an alternate mode for preventing clogging of drainage hole 4915. A protective structure 4960 is molded so that it extends above opening 4915. A biased cut 4961 is provided to allow the liquid to pass through. under the protection structure 4960 to reach opening 4915 and the reservoir. While this structure can be manufactured in a number of different ways, and could completely cover the opening 4915, this embodiment illustrates the 4960 structure having a 4965 spacing on its upper surface, although the width of the 4965 spacing is preferred. smaller than the diameter of the drain opening 4915. The separation 4965 also facilitates the manufacture of this structure by means of a movable mold. Figures 51A and 51B illustrate one embodiment of a container according to the present invention. The container 5100 includes a first tray 5120, a second tray 5110 and an intervention connection hinge 5130. Preferably, the first tray 5120, the second tray 5110 and the hinge 5130 are manufactured in one piece. The hinge 5130 includes reduced thickness portions 5131, 5133 on either side of the central portion 5137. The reduced thickness portions 5131, 5133 facilitate the bending of the hinge, while the central region 5137 provides strength and assistance in the alignment of the hinge. first and second trays. The joint makes a seal obvious in areas where the joint extends, for example, along an edge of the finished container 5100. Along the other edges, one of the sealing methods described above can be used. As can be seen, the second tray 5110 is thinner than the first tray 5120, and has steeper raised surface shapes, which are facilitated by the thickness of the second tray 5110. The relative thickness of the second tray transmits an increase in strength to vessel 5100. Figures 52A-C illustrate various embodiments of lip wrapping techniques for sealing the first and second trays together. Figure 52A illustrates a roll of lip 5267, where the surface of the lip has been struck (compressed) to facilitate rolling. In these lip-wrapping techniques, force is used to deform the individual elements, thereby creating a connection. The adhesive and / or heat can be applied to facilitate the bond, even if the adhesive or heat is not regulated. The lip rolls 5265 and 5263 are variations of the lip roll 5265. In addition, the lip roll 5261 includes a fold 5262 adjacent thereto to facilitate connection. Alternatively, adhesive, cohesive, thermal welding, ultrasonic welding or guiding bonding techniques or other techniques may be used to join the first and second trays together. The trays can be molded from a sheet material or can be emptied from the material of a powder, grain or granule. Both the first and the second trays can be of the same material, color and pattern, or alternatively, they can be manufactured from different materials, colors or with different patterns. The containers described in this document can be manufactured from any suitable material, for example, expanded polystyrene foam, thin sheet metal, such as a thin sheet of aluminum, oriented polystyrene (OPS), polypropylene, polypropylene filled with mineral, amorphous polyethylene terephthalate (APET), thermoplastics. It will be understood that the above list is not exhaustive and that the containers can be made from other materials. Normally, the above containers are manufactured in at least two parts. For example, the container 100 of Figures 1-3 can be made by forming the first tray 220 and the second tray 110, and subsequently, they can be joined together. If a valve is included, it would be manufactured separately, and subsequently, it would be placed in the container, or in a portion thereof. The containers described herein may be of any desired shape, such as, for example, circular, rectangular, oblong, oval or square. The containers can be used for the packaging of uncooked food, although they can also be used for cooking and / or maintaining the cooked food, such as cooked chicken. Advantageously, the present containers are capable of retaining the liquefied exudate during and after cooking, for example, of a roasted chicken. If they are used for cooking, the materials used for the container must be able to satisfactorily withstand the oven temperatures. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the method and system of the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the present invention include modifications and variations that are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims (37)

  1. CLAIMS 1. A container, characterized by comprises: a first tray having a first lower wall and a first surrounding side wall that extends, generally, upwards from the first lower wall to define a space therein; and a second tray having a second lower wall and a second surrounding lateral wall extending generally upwardly from the second lower wall, the second lower wall having at least one opening defined in a central region of the second wall. same, the second lower wall has an upper surface that slopes downwards in the direction of at least one opening; the second tray is located within the space of the first tray to define a deposit between them, the tank is in fluid communication with the opening.
  2. 2. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that the first tray has a substantially rectangular shape.
  3. 3. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that the first tray has a substantially circular shape.
  4. 4. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that the first side wall extends upwards and outwards from the first lower wall at a first angle approximately between 15 and 90 degrees.
  5. 5. The container according to claim 4, characterized in that the angle is approximately between 45 and 60 degrees.
  6. The container according to claim 4, characterized in that the second side wall extends upwards and outwards from the second lower wall at a second angle, and wherein the first angle is larger than the second angle for defining a chamber between the first side wall and the second side wall.
  7. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that the first lower wall has a central region aligned with the opening of the second tray, and an upper surface sloping downward, away from the central region.
  8. 8. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that the upper surface of the second lower wall includes a high surface shape.
  9. 9. The container according to claim 8, characterized in that the high surface shape is defined by at least one protrusion extending upwards from the upper surface of the second lower wall.
  10. 10. The container according to claim 9, characterized in that at least one protrusion has an elongated shape which is aligned in a non-radial orientation relative to at least one opening.
  11. The container according to claim 9, characterized in that at least one protrusion is substantially perpendicular to at least one edge of the second side wall.
  12. 12. The container according to claim 9, characterized in that at least one protrusion is separated from at least one opening.
  13. The container according to claim 8, characterized in that the high surface shape is defined at least through a depression formed in the second lower wall.
  14. 14. The container according to claim 13, characterized by at least one depression is a channel.
  15. 15. The container according to claim 14, characterized in that the channel is substantially radial, relative to at least one opening.
  16. 16. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that the upper surface of the first tray includes cooperating elements supporting the second tray.
  17. 17. The container according to claim 16, characterized in that the cooperating elements extend from the upper surface of the first tray and cooperate with the lower surface of the second tray.
  18. 18. The container according to claim 16, characterized in that the second tray has a lower surface with a plurality of depressions formed therein, the cooperating elements of the first tray correspond in location with the depressions formed in the second tray.
  19. 19. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that the opening is located relative to the reservoir, so that a first volume of liquid, capable of being retained within the reservoir when oriented in a first position, is substantially equal to the reservoir. second volume of the liquid capable of being retained within the reservoir when it is oriented in a second position.
  20. 20. The container according to claim 19, characterized in that the first position comprises the container oriented in a generally horizontal position, and the second position comprises the container oriented in a generally vertical position.
  21. 21. The container according to claim 19, characterized by the first position comprises the container which is oriented horizontally, with the lower surface of the lower wall of the first tray facing down, and the second position comprises the container which is oriented horizontally, the lower surface of the lower wall of the first tray is oriented upwards.
  22. 22. The container according to claim 1, further characterized by comprising a valve which controls the flow of the liquid at least through an opening.
  23. 23. The container according to claim 22, characterized in that the valve is a one-way valve.
  24. 24. The container according to claim 22, characterized in that the valve is a sheet-type valve.
  25. 25. The container according to claim 24, characterized in that the sheet-type valve includes a membrane that extends at least through an opening, the membrane is secured at the opposite ends thereof on the lower surface of the membrane. the second tray.
  26. 26. The container according to claim 1, characterized in that the second lower wall has a lower surface which slopes, generally, upwards out of the opening.
  27. 27. A container for a perishable product, characterized by comprising: a first tray having a first lower wall and a first surrounding side wall which extends, generally, upwards from the first lower wall to define a space in the same; and a second tray having a second lower wall and a second surrounding lateral wall extending generally upwardly from the second lower wall, the second lower wall having at least one opening defined in a central region of the same, the second lower wall has an upper surface that slopes downwards in the direction of at least one opening; the second tray is located within the space of the first tray to define a reservoir therebetween, at least a portion of the first side wall and at least a portion of the second side wall are separated from each other to define a chamber deposit between them, the tank is in fluid communication with the opening.
  28. 28. A container for a perishable product, characterized by comprising: a first tray having a first lower wall and a first surrounding side wall that extends, generally, upwards from the first lower wall to define a space in the same; and a second tray having a second lower wall and a second surrounding lateral wall extending generally upwardly from the second lower wall, the second lower wall having at least one opening defined in a central region of the same, the second lower wall has an upper surface that slopes downwards in the direction of at least one opening, the upper surface of the second lower wall further includes a high surface shape; the second tray is located within the space of the first tray to define a deposit between them, the tank is in fluid communication with the opening.
  29. 29. The container according to claim 28, characterized in that the high surface shape includes at least one protrusion.
  30. 30. The container according to claim 28, characterized in that the high surface shape includes at least one depression.
  31. 31. The container according to claim 28, characterized in that the high surface shape includes at least one protrusion and at least one depression.
  32. 32. A container for a perishable product, characterized by comprising: a first tray having a first lower wall and a first surrounding side wall that extends, generally, upwards from the first lower wall to define a space therein; a second tray having a second bottom wall and a second surrounding side wall extending generally upwardly from the second bottom wall, the second bottom wall having at least one opening defined in a central region of the second wall. same, the second lower wall has an upper surface that slopes downwards in the direction of at least one opening; the second tray is located within the space of the first tray to define a reservoir therebetween, the reservoir being in fluid communication with the opening; and a valve in fluid communication with the opening; and a valve in communication with the opening which prevents the flow of the tank from the tank through the opening.
  33. 33. The container according to claim 32, characterized in that the valve is a one-way valve.
  34. 34. The container according to claim 33, characterized by ventilation is provided between the tank and the environment outside the tank.
  35. 35. The container according to claim 32, characterized in that the valve is a ball-type valve.
  36. 36. The container according to claim 32, characterized by the valve is a sheet type valve.
  37. 37. A container for a perishable product, characterized by comprising: a first tray divided into a plurality of cells, each cell having a lower cell wall and a surrounding cell side wall extending, generally, upwards from of the corresponding lower cell wall to define individual cell spaces therein; and a second tray having a plurality of drainage areas, each of the drainage areas corresponds to one of the plurality of cells of the first tray, each drainage area has a lower wall with at least one opening defined in the region. At its center, the lower wall of each drainage area has an upper surface which slopes downwards in the direction of at least one opening of the drainage area, the second tray furthermore has a surrounding lateral wall which extends, so general, upwards from the plurality of drainage areas; each drainage area of the second tray is located within a respective cell space of the first tray to define the corresponding reservoirs therebetween, each reservoir being in fluid communication with a respective opening.
MX/A/2008/006227A 2005-11-14 2008-05-14 Container having internal reservoir MX2008006227A (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US60/737,023 2005-11-14

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
MX2008006227A true MX2008006227A (en) 2008-09-26

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