NL2017135B1

NL2017135B1 - Aroma smelling pouch

Info

Publication number: NL2017135B1
Application number: NL2017135A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Willem Klaassen Dave
Original assignee: Daklapack Europe B V
Priority date: 2016-07-08
Filing date: 2016-07-08
Publication date: 2018-01-15

Abstract

The invention relates to a hand held aroma smelling pouch, for dispensing an aromatic scent from a sample product, such as a batch of coffee beans, scented granules, tealeaves, etc. The smelling pouch comprises a flexible front panel and a flexible rear panel, said panels defining between them a sample product chamber and an air chamber, which chambers are separated by a barrier, said barrier defining one or more air passages that allow air to flow from one chamber to the other chamber. The air chamber holds a resilient member, such that the resilient member in combination with the front panel and rear panel forms an air pump, which air pump allows for urging air from the air chamber into the product chamber via the one or more air passages and out of the product chamber via an air inlet/outlet, by manually squeezing the air chamber.

Description

OctrooicentrumPatent center

NederlandThe Netherlands

BI OCTROOI @ Int. CL:BI PATENT @ Int. CL:

A61L9/12 (2017.01)A61L9 / 12 (2017.01)

(Tl) Aanvraag ingeschreven: (Tl) Application registered: (73) Octrooihouder(s): (73) Patent holder (s): 15/01/2018 15/01/2018 Daklapack Europe B.V. te Lelystad. Daklapack Europe B.V. in Lelystad. (43) Aanvraag gepubliceerd: (43) Application published: - - (72) Uitvinder(s): (72) Inventor (s): Dave Willem Klaassen te Ermelo. Dave Willem Klaassen in Ermelo. Octrooi verleend: Patent granted: 15/01/2018 15/01/2018 (74) Gemachtigde: (74) Agent: (45) Octrooischrift uitgegeven: (45) Patent issued: ir. H.V. Mertens c.s. te Rijswijk. ir. H.V. Mertens et al. In Rijswijk. 31/01/2018 31/01/2018

© Aroma smelling pouch © The invention relates to a hand held aroma smelling pouch, for dispensing an aromatic scent from a sample product, such as a batch of coffee beans, scented granules, tealeaves, etc. The smelling pouch comprises a flexible front panel and a flexible rear panel, said panels defining between them a sample product chamber and an air chamber, which chambers are separated by a barrier, said barrier defining one or more air passages that allow air to flow from one chamber to the other chamber. The air chamber holds a resilient member, such that the resilient member in combination with the front panel and rear panel forms an air pump, which air pump allows for urging air from the air chamber into the product chamber via the one or more air passages and out of the product chamber via an air inlet/outlet, by manually squeezing the air chamber.© Aroma smelling pouch © The invention relates to a hand held aroma smelling pouch, for dispensing an aromatic scent from a sample product, such as a batch of coffee beans, scented granules, tealeaves, etc. The smelling pouch comprises a flexible front panel and a flexible rear panel, said panels defining between them a sample product chamber and an air chamber, which chambers are separated by a barrier, said barrier defining one or more air passages that allow air to flow from one chamber to the other chamber. The air chamber holds a resilient member, such that the resilient member in combination with the front panel and rear panel forms an air pump, which air pump allows for urgent air from the air chamber into the product chamber via the one or more air passages and out of the product chamber through an air inlet / outlet, by manually squeezing the air chamber.

NL BI 2017135NL BI 2017135

Dit octrooi is verleend ongeacht het bijgevoegde resultaat van het onderzoek naar de stand van de techniek en schriftelijke opinie. Het octrooischrift komt overeen met de oorspronkelijk ingediende stukken.This patent has been granted regardless of the attached result of the research into the state of the art and written opinion. The patent corresponds to the documents originally submitted.

P32822NL00P32822NL00

Short title: Aroma smelling pouchShort title: Aroma smelling pouch

This invention relates generally to dispensing an aroma of a solid sample product, and more particularly, to an aroma dispensing device for presenting a person with an aroma of a solid sample product, for example of a granular product such as coffee beans, tea, tobacco, scented granules or a pulverized product.This invention relates generally to dispensing an aroma or a solid sample product, and more particularly, to an aroma dispensing device for presenting a person with an aroma or a solid sample product, for example or a granular product such as coffee beans, tea, tobacco , scented granules or a pulverized product.

Samples of for example tea and coffee beans are often presented to potential buyers, who by way of the aroma of said samples decide on buying or not buying the product. And/or by way of comparing aromas of different products decide on which product to buy. Typically, a sample of the particular product is presented in a cup or on a dish, while the rest of the product is stored in a bin or other type of storage device, to present the potential buyer the aroma of the sample product.Samples of for example tea and coffee beans are often presented to potential buyers, who by the way of the aroma or said samples decide on buying or not buying the product. And / or by way of comparing aromas or different products decide on which product to buy. Typically, a sample of the particular product is presented in a cup or on a dish, while the rest of the product is stored in a bin or other type of storage device, to present the potential buyer the aroma or the sample product.

Due to the open top of the dish or cup, the product sample is not shielded. Thus it is open for contamination with foreign products, for example samples of different product may by accident get mixed, thus contaminating the aroma of the sample product with the smell of other products, for example the aroma of other sample products. Also, presenting the sample product in a cup or dish keeps the aroma close to the product, preventing the potential buyer from obtaining a good impression of the aroma of the sample product.Due to the open top of the dish or cup, the product sample is not shielded. Thus it is open for contamination with foreign products, for example samples of different products may be accidentally mixed, thus contaminating the aroma of the sample product with the smell of other products, for example the aroma of other sample products. Also, presenting the sample product in a cup or dish keeps the aroma close to the product, preventing the potential buyer from receiving a good impression or the aroma of the sample product.

It is an object of the invention to obviate, or at least greatly reduce, the problems described hereinabove and in particular to provide a pouch for dispensing an aroma of a sample product, more particularly, to provide an aroma dispensing pouch for housing a solid product and for controlled dispensing of an aroma of that solid product, for example of a granular product such as coffee beans, tea, tobacco, scented granules or a pulverized product.It is an object of the invention to obviate, or at least greatly reduce, the problems described belowabove and in particular to provide a pouch for dispensing an aroma or a sample product, more particularly, to provide an aroma dispensing pouch for housing a solid product and for controlled dispensing of an aroma or that solid product, for example of a granular product such as coffee beans, tea, tobacco, scented granules or a pulverized product.

According to the present invention, this object is achieved by a smelling pouch according to claim 1. Such a smelling pouch is adapted for holding a solid sample product and allows for presenting a person with an aroma of that sample product in a simple and efficient way. Furthermore, since the sample product is stored in the product chamber of the pouch, it is shielded from contact with the person while obtaining the product. Also, spillage of the sample product and/or accidental mixture of the sample product with other products is prevented.According to the present invention, this object is achieved by a smelling pouch according to claim 1. Such a smelling pouch is adapted for holding a solid sample product and allows for presenting a person with an aroma or that sample product in a simple and efficient way . Furthermore, since the sample product is stored in the product chamber of the pouch, it is shielded from contact with the person while receiving the product. Also, spillage of the sample product and / or accidental mixture of the sample product with other products is prevented.

Thus the invention allows for providing an aroma of a solid sample product without the problems of the prior art solutions.Thus the invention allows for providing an aroma or a solid sample product without the problems of the prior art solutions.

-2According to the invention, a hand held aroma smelling pouch, for dispensing an aromatic scent from a sample product, such as a batch of coffee beans, scented granules, tealeaves, tobacco, etc., held in the pouch, comprises a flexible front panel, a flexible rear panel, and a resilient member, wherein the flexible front panel and the flexible rear panel are sealed to each other such that the front panel and the rear panel delimit between them a product chamber, holding the sample product therein, and an air chamber, holding the resilient member therein, which product chamber and air chamber are located adjacent each other and are separated by a barrier, which barrier preferably is formed by sealing the front panel to the rear panel, and which barrier forms one or more air passages between the product chamber and the air chamber, which one or more air passages are dimensioned such that they allow for air to freely pass from the product chamber to the air chamber and from the air chamber to the product chamber, while they preferably are dimensioned such that they prevent sample product to pass from the product chamber to the air chamber, wherein the product chamber is provided with an air inlet/outlet, preferably provided in the front and/or rear panel, for allowing air to flow into the product chamber and out of the product chamber, wherein the resilient member is provided in the air chamber in which it pushes the front panel away from the rear panel, such that the resilient member in combination with the front panel and rear panel forms an air pump, which air pump allows for urging air from the air chamber into the product chamber via the one or more air passages and out of the product chamber via the air inlet/outlet, by manually squeezing the air chamber, and thus compressing the resilient member, and for subsequently drawing air into the product chamber via the air inlet/outlet and via the one or more air passages into the air chamber by releasing the resilient member, and thus allowing the resilient member to return to its original shape.-2According to the invention, a hand held aroma melting pouch, for dispensing an aromatic scent from a sample product, such as a batch of coffee beans, scented granules, tealeaves, tobacco, etc., hero in the pouch, comprises a flexible front panel, a flexible rear panel, and a resilient member, holding the flexible front panel and the flexible rear panel are sealed to each other such that the front panel and the rear panel delimit between them a product chamber, holding the sample product therein, and an air chamber, holding the resilient member therein, which product chamber and air chamber are located adjacent each other and are separated by a barrier, which barrier is preferably formed by sealing the front panel to the rear panel, and which barrier forms one or more air passages between the product chamber and the air chamber, which one or more air passages are dimensioned such that they allow for air to freely pass from the product chamber to the air chamber and from the air chamb there to the product chamber, while they are preferably dimensioned such that they prevent sample product to pass from the product chamber to the air chamber, the product chamber is provided with an air inlet / outlet, preferably provided in the front and / or rear panel, for allowing air to flow into the product chamber and out of the product chamber, in which the resilient member is provided in the air chamber in which it pushes the front panel away from the rear panel, such that the resilient member in combination with the front panel and rear panel forms an air pump, which air pump allows for urgent air from the air chamber into the product chamber via the one or more air passages and out of the product chamber via the air inlet / outlet, by manually squeezing the air chamber, and thus compressing the resilient member, and drawing air into the product chamber through the air inlet / outlet and through the one or more air passages into the air chamber by releasing the resilient member, and thus allowing the resilient member to return to its original shape.

A smelling pouch according to the invention can be made out of flexible sheet material. Also, the resilient member can be of a simple design. The invention thus allows for a simple production process and for a low cost aroma smelling pouch.A smelling pouch according to the invention can be made out of flexible sheet material. Also, the resilient member can be a simple design. The invention thus allows for a simple production process and for a low-cost aroma smelling pouch.

The smelling pouch according to the invention thus allows for presenting a person with an aroma of a sample product in a simple, hygienic and efficient way.The smelling pouch according to the invention thus allows for presenting a person with an aroma or a sample product in a simple, hygienic and efficient way.

-3A hand held aroma smelling pouch is adapted to dispensing an aromatic scent from a sample product, in particular a sample product of a solid material, held in the pouch. Examples of product materials that can be used with the aroma smelling pouch are a batch of coffee beans, scented granules, tealeaves, tobacco, etc. The sample product granules or other components of the product material and the air passages provided by the barrier preferably are dimensioned such that the product material cannot enter into the air chamber, more in particular cannot enter into the air chamber to such an extent that it blocks the function of the resilient member. Also it is preferred that the air chamber remains free of product material to enable it to optimally function as a bellow, i.e. to hold air that can be urged into the product chamber to drive an aroma out of set product chamber via the air inlet/outlet.-3A hand held aroma smelling pouch is adapted to dispensing an aromatic scent from a sample product, in particular a sample product or a solid material, held in the pouch. Examples of product materials that can be used with the aroma melting pouch are a batch of coffee beans, scented granules, tealeaves, tobacco, etc. The sample product granules or other components of the product material and the air passages provided by the barrier preferably are dimensioned such that the product material cannot enter into the air chamber, more in particular cannot enter into the air chamber to such an extent that it blocks the function of the resilient member. Also it is preferred that the air chamber remains free of product material to enable it to optimally function as a bellow, ie to hold air that can be urged into the product chamber to drive an aroma out or set of product chamber via the air inlet / outlet .

The flexible front panel and flexible rear panel are plastic sheet materials, which are fixed to each other by way of the heat sealing technique. This allows for a simple and low-cost production process, and provides a light and product.The flexible front panel and flexible rear panel are plastic sheet materials, which are fixed to each other by the way of the heat sealing technique. This allows for a simple and low-cost production process, and provides a light and product.

The flexible front panel and the flexible rear panel are preferably heat sealed to each other along the sides of the panels and across the panels, such that the front panel and the rear panel delimit between them the product chamber and the air chamber, separated from each other by the barrier, and each chamber having an open side for inserting a simple material or the resilient member.The flexible front panel and the flexible rear panel are preferably heat sealed to each other along the sides of the panels and across the panels, such that the front panel and the rear panel delimit between them the product chamber and the air chamber, separated from each other by the barrier, and each chamber having an open side for inserting a simple material or the resilient member.

This configuration furthermore allows for the production process in which strips of sheet material are sealed together to form a row of aroma smelling pouches which can subsequently be cut from each other, provided with a sample product and a resilient member, after which the air chamber and product chamber are closed by heat sealing.This configuration furthermore allows for the production process in which strips or sheet material are sealed together to form a row of aroma melting pouches which can be cut from each other, provided with a sample product and a resilient member, after which the air chamber and product chamber are closed by heat sealing.

The aroma smelling pouch according to the invention thus comprises a pouch that is subdivided into a product chamber and a chamber, or, in other words, the smelling pouch according to the invention is a combination of a pouch forming the product chamber and a pouch forming the air chamber, which pouches are connected via air passages.The aroma smelling pouch according to the invention thus comprises a pouch that is subdivided into a product chamber and a chamber, or, in other words, the smelling pouch according to the invention is a combination of a pouch forming the product chamber and a pouch forming the air chamber, which pouches are connected via air passages.

In an embodiment, the barrier that separates the product chamber from the air chamber is formed by a heat seal, i.e. the front panel and the rear panel being sealed to each other. Thus, the heat seal is provided with interruptions, which interruptions or openings form the one or more air passages that connect the air chamber with the product chamber, and allow air to travel between said chambers.In an embodiment, the barrier that separates the product chamber from the air chamber is formed by a heat seal, i.e. the front panel and the rear panel being sealed to each other. Thus, the heat seal is provided with interruptions, which interruptions or opening form the one or more air passages that connect the air chamber with the product chamber, and allow air to travel between said chambers.

In an embodiment, the one or more air passages are dimensioned such that they allow for air to freely pass from the product chamber to the air chamber and from the air chamber to theIn an embodiment, the one or more air passages are dimensioned such that they allow for air to freely pass from the product chamber to the air chamber and from the air chamber to the

-4product chamber, while they prevent sample product to pass from the product chamber to the air chamber. In an alternative embodiment, the sample product is for example provided in a bag, the bag having a net type structure or is made out of a porous membrane material, which bag holds the batch of sample product together, and allows for aroma to dispense through the product chamber while preventing sample product to enter the air passages.-4product chamber, while they prevent sample product to pass from the product chamber to the air chamber. In an alternative embodiment, the sample product is for example provided in a bag, the bag having a net type structure or is made out of a porous membrane material, which bag holds the batch or sample product together, and allows for aroma to dispense through the product chamber while preventing sample product to enter the air passages.

In an embodiment according to the invention, tube shaped reinforcements and/or a filter material, for example a porous body can be sealed into the air passages provided by the barrier to provide said air passages with restrictions defining openings that allow air to travel between the two chambers while preventing sample product material to do the same. Also, a membrane or filter can be applied in front of entry openings of the air passages.In an embodiment according to the invention, tube shaped reinforcements and / or a filter material, for example a porous body can be sealed into the air passages provided by the barrier to provide said air passages with restrictions defining opening that allow air to travel between the two chambers while preventing sample product material to do the same. Also, a membrane or filter can be applied in front of entry or opening of the air passages.

In another embodiment, the barrier is provided in the form of a body that is sealed between the front and rear panel and between the product chamber and the air chamber. The body can for example be an injection moulded body, defining one or more air passages, a porous body, for example a rigid body having a foam like structure, etc.In another embodiment, the barrier is provided in the form of a body that is sealed between the front and rear panel and between the product chamber and the air chamber. The body can for example be an injection molded body, defining one or more air passages, a porous body, for example a rigid body having a foam like structure, etc.

In an embodiment, the barrier is provided in the form of an injection moulded body and is combined with the resilient member. For example the resilient member can be provided in the form of a leaf spring which is fixed to an injection moulded body that form the barrier. Thus, the barrier and resilient body can be inserted between the front panel and the rear panel in a single step during the production process. In a further embodiment, barrier body and resilient member form a single, integral injection moulded body.In an embodiment, the barrier is provided in the form of an injection molded body and is combined with the resilient member. For example the resilient member can be provided in the form of a leaf spring which is fixed to an injection molded body that form the barrier. Thus, the barrier and resilient body can be inserted between the front panel and the rear panel in a single step during the production process. In a further embodiment, barrier body and resilient member form a single, integral injection molded body.

The product chamber is provided with an air inlet/outlet in the front and/or rear panel, for allowing air to flow into the product chamber and out of the product chamber. In a preferred embodiment only the France panel is provided with an air inlet outlet, such that the aroma is dispensed at the front side of the aroma smelling pouch only. When a user holds the aroma smelling pouch in one and with the air inlet/outlet located near his/her nose, compressing the air chamber generates a flow of aroma from the air inlet/outlet at the nose of the user. In an embodiment provided with a single air inlet/outlet, the full aroma is dispensed at the nose of the user.The product chamber is provided with an air inlet / outlet in the front and / or rear panel, for allowing air to flow into the product chamber and out of the product chamber. In a preferred embodiment only the France panel is provided with an air inlet outlet, such that the aroma is dispensed on the front side of the aroma smelling pouch only. When a user holds the aroma smelling pouch in one and with the air inlet / outlet located near his / her nose, compressing the air chamber generates a flow of aroma from the air inlet / outlet at the nose of the user. In an embodiment provided with a single air inlet / outlet, the full aroma is dispensed at the nose of the user.

In an alternative embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, a double air inlet/outlet can be provided in the product chamber, for example one air inlet/outlet in the front panel and one air inlet/outlet in the rear panel. Thus the aroma is dispensed at both the front and the back of the aroma smelling pouch.In an alternative embodiment or aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, a double air inlet / outlet can be provided in the product chamber, for example one air inlet / outlet in the front panel and one air inlet / outlet in the rear panel. Thus the aroma is dispensed at both the front and the back of the aroma smelling pouch.

In an embodiment the aroma smelling pouch is provided with an air inlet and an air outlet, both provided in the form of a one-way valve. In such an embodiment the inflow of air into theIn an embodiment the aroma melting pouch is provided with an air inlet and an air outlet, both provided in the form of a one-way valve. In such an embodiment the inflow or air into the

-5aroma smelling pouch takes place at one location while the outflow of air and aroma takes place at another location. For example the air inlet valve can be provided in the rear panel of the aroma smelling pouch while the air outlet valve is provided in the front panel of the aroma smelling pouch. In another embodiment, the air inlet valve can be located in the air chamber while the air outlet valve is located at the product chamber. In a preferred embodiment, air flows into the aroma smelling pouch via the product chamber and from there into the air chamber, and vice versa when the air chamber is compressed. In such a configuration the air flows along the sample product both when it enters the aroma smelling pouch and when it is expelled from the aroma smelling pouch, enabling it to mix optimally with the aroma dispensed by the sample products.-5aroma smelling pouch takes place at one location while the outflow of air and aroma takes place at another location. For example the air inlet valve can be provided in the rear panel of the aroma smelling pouch while the air outlet valve is provided in the front panel of the aroma smelling pouch. In another embodiment, the air inlet valve can be located in the air chamber while the air outlet valve is located at the product chamber. In a preferred embodiment, air flows into the aroma melt pouch via the product chamber and from there into the air chamber, and vice versa when the air chamber is compressed. In such a configuration the air flows along the sample product both when it enters the aroma melting pouch and when it is expelled from the aroma melting pouch, enabling it to mix optimally with the aroma dispensed by the sample products.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the air inlet/outlet comprises one or more openings located in a small area, for example in the form of a cluster of perforations in the front or rear panel which perforations are provided within a square centimetre, to provide a concentrated flow of aroma. In an alternative embodiment the air inlet/outlet comprises multiple openings located over a large area, for example over an area of 3 x 3 cm, or all over the front panel, to provide a wide flow of aroma. The latter configuration is more adapted to provide a cloud of aroma, which allows a user to fully immerse in said aroma, while the former configuration is more adapted to provide a concentrated flow, which allows experiencing a concentrated aroma. The configuration of the air inlet/outlet preferably is adapted to fit a particular sample product, since some sample products are best served by a more deluded and wide flow of aroma, while other sample products require a concentrated flow to enable a user to experience the aroma.In an embodiment of an aroma melting pouch according to the invention, the air inlet / outlet comprises one or more opening located in a small area, for example in the form of a cluster of perforations in the front or rear panel which perforations are provided within a square centimeter, to provide a concentrated flow or aroma. In an alternative embodiment the air inlet / outlet comprises multiple opening located over a large area, for example over an area or 3 x 3 cm, or all over the front panel, to provide a wide flow of aroma. The latter configuration is more adapted to provide a cloud of aroma, which allows a user to fully immerse in said aroma, while the former configuration is more adapted to provide a concentrated flow, which allows experiencing a concentrated aroma. The configuration of the air inlet / outlet preferably is adapted to fit a particular sample product, since some sample products are best served by a more deluded and wide flow of aroma, while other sample products require a concentrated flow to enable a user to experience the aroma.

The resilient member is provided in the air chamber. The function of the resilient member is to transform the air chamber into a bellow, which enables manual dispensing of the aroma of the sample product located in the product chamber. Thus, the resilient member is configured to push the front panel away from the rear panel, while it allows the user to push the front panel towards the rear panel by compressing the resilient member. Preferably the resilient member takes up a minimum of volume in the air chamber, such that a maximum volume of air can be held in the air chamber. Thus, the resilient member can be embodied in the form of a spring element, for example a helical spring, a bent spring blade, a sponge type resilient body, et cetera.The resilient member is provided in the air chamber. The function of the resilient member is to transform the air chamber into a bellow, which allows manual dispensing of the aroma or sample product located in the product chamber. Thus, the resilient member is configured to push the front panel away from the rear panel, while it allows the user to push the front panel away from the rear panel by compressing the resilient member. Preferably the resilient member takes up a minimum or volume in the air chamber, such that a maximum volume or air can be held in the air chamber. Thus, the resilient member can be embodied in the form of a spring element, for example a helical spring, a spring blade, a sponge-type resilient body, and so on.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the product chamber and/or the air chamber are/is provided with a zip lock closure, to enable access to the product chamber and/or air chamber. Thus, the sample product and/or/ sample product can be replaced, for example when the spring element has broken, or when the ampleIn an embodiment or aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the product chamber and / or the air chamber are provided with a zip lock closure, to enable access to the product chamber and / or air chamber. Thus, the sample product and / or / sample product can be replaced, for example when the spring element has broken, or when the ample

-6product has lost is aroma and needs to be replaced with a fresh sample. Furthermore, a product chamber that can be opened and closed again allows for the aroma smelling pouch to be stored without the sample product, and the sample product to be inserted into the product chamber just prior to use, thus ensuring the sample product is fresh and still has its full aroma, when the aroma smelling pouch is used to dispense the aroma of the sample product.-6product has lost is aroma and needs to be replaced with a fresh sample. Furthermore, a product chamber that can be opened and closed again allows for the aroma melting pouch to be stored without the sample product, and the sample product to be inserted into the product chamber just prior to use, thus ensuring the sample product is fresh and still has its full aroma, when the aroma melting pouch is used to dispense the aroma or the sample product.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the front panel and the rear panel are sealed to each other along their entire outer circumference. In such an embodiment, spring element and sample product can not be replaced. Such an aroma smelling pouch for example prevents unwanted tampering with the sample product by a third person.In an embodiment or an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the front panel and the rear panel are sealed to each other along their entire outer circumference. In such an embodiment, spring element and sample product can not be replaced. Such an aroma smelling pouch for example prevents unwanted tampering with the sample product by a third person.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the aroma smelling pouch furthermore comprises an air inlet/outlet closure, preferably in the form of a seal that is removable attached to the panel in which the air inlet/outlet is provided, to seal off the air inlet/outlet. For example a sticker can be attached to the front panel to cover an air inlet/outlet, to thus seal off the air inlet and allow for example for storage of the aroma smelling pouch without the aroma of the sample product being dispensed. In a preferred embodiment, air is removed from the air chamber and the product chamber prior to the air inlet/outlet being sealed off.In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the aroma smelling pouch furthermore comprises an air inlet / outlet closure, preferably in the form of a seal that is removable attached to the panel in which the air inlet / outlet is provided, to seal off the air inlet / outlet. For example a sticker can be attached to the front panel to cover an air inlet / outlet, to thus seal off the air inlet and allow for example for storage of the aroma melting pouch without the aroma or the sample product being dispensed. In a preferred embodiment, air is removed from the air chamber and the product chamber prior to the air inlet / outlet being sealed off.

In a further embodiment, the air inlet/outlet is provided in the form of a cluster of perforations in the front or rear panel, to provide a concentrated flow of aroma.In a further embodiment, the air inlet / outlet is provided in the form of a cluster or perforations in the front or rear panel, to provide a concentrated flow or aroma.

In a further embodiment, the multiple perforations are micro-perforations which are dimensioned such that they only allow air to pass in case of a pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the product chamber, said pressure difference being generated by the air pump of the aroma smelling pouch. Thus, no aroma leaks out of the product chamber when the smelling pouch is not used to dispense aroma. In an alternative embodiment, a valve is used, for example provided in the form of an insert sealed in an aperture in the front panel of the aroma smelling pouch, which valve only opens in case of a certain pressure difference between the product chamber and the surroundings of the aroma smelling pouch.In a further embodiment, the multiple perforations are micro-perforations which are dimensioned such that they only allow air to pass in case of a pressure difference between the inside and the outside of the product chamber, said pressure difference being generated by the air pump of the aroma smelling pouch. Thus, no aroma leaks out of the product chamber when the smelling pouch is not used to dispense aroma. In an alternative embodiment, a valve is used, for example provided in the form of an insert sealed in an aperture in the front panel of the aroma melting pouch, which valve only opens in a case of a certain pressure difference between the product chamber and the surroundings of the aroma smelling pouch.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the smelling pouch is a self-standing smelling pouch, such that the smelling pouch is self-supporting and can maintain a stable vertical standing position, preferably with the product chamber and the airIn an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the smelling pouch is a self-standing smelling pouch, such that the smelling pouch is self-supporting and can maintain a stable vertical standing position, preferably with the product chamber and the air

-7chamber located one above the other, when resting on a substantially horizontal support surface.-7chamber located one above the other, when resting on a substantially horizontal support surface.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the smelling pouch is provided with one or more reinforcement members, which one or more reinforcement members extend from one side of the barrier to the opposite sides of the barrier to such an extent that they prevent folding of the smelling pouch at the barrier when the smelling pouch is held at the air chamber with the product chamber above the air chamber. In an embodiment, the smelling pouch is provided with a frame, for example the circumferential heat seals of the pouch being held between a cardboard front panel frame and a cardboard rear panel frame, to prevent folding of the pouch during use.In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the smelling pouch is provided with one or more reinforcement members, which one or more reinforcement members extend from one side of the barrier to the opposite sides of the barrier to such an extent that they prevent folding of the smelling pouch at the barrier when the smelling pouch is a hero at the air chamber with the product chamber above the air chamber. In an embodiment, the smelling pouch is provided with a frame, for example the circumferential heat seals of the pouch being a hero between a cardboard front panel and a cardboard rear panel, to prevent folding or the pouch during use.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the resilient member is a bent flexible strip, preferably a bent strip of plastic material. In an alternative embodiment, the resilient member can be an injection moulded product. In a further embodiment, the barrier and the resilient member are combined into a single injection moulded product.In an embodiment or an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the resilient member is a flexible strip, preferably a plastic strip. In an alternative embodiment, the resilient member can be an injection molded product. In a further embodiment, the barrier and the resilient member are combined into a single injection molded product.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the aroma smelling pouch is provided with a mounting aperture, for suspending the aroma smelling pouch from a support, e.g. a hook or nail, which mounting aperture is provided in an area wherein the front panel is sealed to the rear panel, such that the mounting aperture is not connected with the product chamber and/or the air chamber.In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the aroma smelling pouch is provided with a mounting aperture, for suspending the aroma smelling pouch from a support, eg a hook or nail, which mounting aperture is provided in an area provided the front panel is sealed to the rear panel, such that the mounting aperture is not connected to the product chamber and / or the air chamber.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the air chamber has a volume similar to, or smaller than, the volume of the product chamber, for example has a volume half the size of the volume of the product chamber. Thus, the main volume of the air dispensed has been kept in the product chamber, to thus mix with the aroma of the sample product.In an embodiment or aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the air chamber has a volume similar to, or narrower than, the volume of the product chamber, for example has a volume half the size of the volume of the product chamber. Thus, the main volume of the air dispensed has been kept in the product chamber, to mix with the aroma or the sample product.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the product chamber is provided with a transparent window that enables visual inspection of the contents of the product chamber.In an embodiment or aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the product chamber is provided with a transparent window that allows visual inspection of the contents of the product chamber.

In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the smelling pouch is provided with a print on those portions of the front panel and of the rear panel that limit the air chamber between them, which print prevents visual inspection of the inside of the air chamber.In an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the smelling pouch is provided with a print on those portions of the front panel and of the rear panel that limit the air chamber between them, which print prevents visual inspection of the inside of the air chamber.

-8ln an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the smelling pouch is provided with printed instructions, for example with a press here” instruction printed on the smelling pouch at the air chamber and/or a “smell here” instruction printed on the smelling pouch at the air inlet/outlet. The print can be provided on the sheets of flexible plastic material that are to be used to form the front panel and the rear panel. This allows for a simple production process.-8ln an embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the smelling pouch is provided with printed instructions, for example with a press here on the smelling pouch at the air inlet / outlet. The print can be provided on the sheets or flexible plastic material that are used to form the front panel and the rear panel. This allows for a simple production process.

The invention furthermore provides a method for providing an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention, the method comprising the steps:The invention furthermore provides a method for providing an aroma melting pouch according to the invention, the method including the steps:

providing a front panel and a rear panel for forming the aroma smelling pouch;providing a front panel and a rear panel for forming the aroma melting pouch;

providing the front panel and/or the rear panel with an air inlet/outlet in an area of the front and/or rear panel that will delimit the product chamber;providing the front panel and / or the rear panel with an air inlet / outlet in an area of the front and / or rear panel that will delimit the product chamber;

sealing the front panel to the rear panel along opposite sides of those panels, thus providing an air tight seal between those panels along the opposite sides, and partially sealing the front panel to the rear panel from one side to the other, thus providing a barrier that extends between the opposite sides of the panels, and thus defining an product chamber at one side of the barrier and an air chamber at an opposite side of the barrier, said product chamber and said air chamber each having one open side, and one or more air passages extending between the product chamber and the air chamber, providing the product chamber with a sample product and closing the product chamber, preferably by sealing the front panel to the rear panel along the open side of the product chamber;sealing the front panel to the rear panel along opposite sides of those panels, thus providing an air tight seal between those panels along the opposite sides, and partially sealing the front panel to the rear panel from one side to the other, thus providing a barrier that extends between the opposite sides of the panels, and thus defining a product chamber at one side of the barrier and an air chamber at an opposite side of the barrier, said product chamber and said air chamber each having one open side, and one or more air passages extending between the product chamber and the air chamber, providing the product chamber with a sample product and closing the product chamber, preferably by sealing the front panel to the rear panel along the open side of the product chamber;

providing the air chamber with a resilient member and closing the air chamber, preferably by sealing the front panel to the rear panel along the open side of the air chamber.providing the air chamber with a resilient member and closing the air chamber, preferably by sealing the front panel to the rear panel along the open side of the air chamber.

A further method according to the invention comprises the additional step: applying an air inlet/outlet closure to the air inlet/outlet or air inlet/outlet closures , preferably by attaching a removable seal or removable seals to an outside surface of the front panel and/or the rear panel in which the respective air inlet/outlet is provided.A further method according to the invention comprises the additional step: applying an air inlet / outlet closure to the air inlet / outlet or air inlet / outlet closures, preferably by attaching a removable seal or removable seals to an outside surface of the front panel and / or the rear panel in which the respective air inlet / outlet is provided.

The invention furthermore provides a method for providing a person with an aromatic scent of a sample product by providing a hand held smelling pouch according to the invention.The invention furthermore provides a method for providing a person with an aromatic scent or a sample product by providing a hand held smelling pouch according to the invention.

Advantageous embodiments of the aroma smelling pouch according to the invention and the method according to the invention are disclosed in the subclaims and in the description, inAdvantageous expo of the aroma pouch according to the invention and the method according to the invention are disclosed in the subclaims and in the description, in

-9which the invention is further illustrated and elucidated on the basis of a number of exemplary embodiments, of which some are shown in the schematic drawing.-9which the invention is further illustrated and elucidated on the basis of a number or exemplary embodiment, or which are shown in the schematic drawing.

In the drawings:In the drawings:

Fig. 1 shows a perspective front view of an exemplary embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention;FIG. 1 shows a perspective front view or an exemplary embodiment or an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention;

Fig. 2 shows a perspective front view of a second exemplary embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention;FIG. 2 shows a perspective front view or a second example of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention;

Fig. 3 shows a perspective front view of a third exemplary embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention; andFIG. 3 shows a perspective front view or a third exemplary embodiment or an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention; and

Fig. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention.FIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective view or a fourth exemplary embodiment or an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention.

Fig. 1 shows a hand held aroma smelling pouch 1, for dispensing an aromatic scent from a sample product 2 held in the smelling pouch. In the exemplary embodiment shown the sample product is a batch of coffee beans. It is noted that an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention can be used with sample products of many types of solid materials, for example, scented granules, tealeaves, tobacco, etc.FIG. 1 shows a hand-held aroma smelling pouch 1, for dispensing an aromatic scent from a sample product 2 hero in the smelling pouch. In the exemplary embodiment the sample product shown is a batch of coffee beans. It is noted that an aroma melting pouch according to the invention can be used with sample products or many types of solid materials, for example, scented granules, tealeaves, tobacco, etc.

The smelling pouch 1 comprises a flexible front panel 3, a flexible rear panel 4, and a resilient member 5. In the embodiment shown in fig. 1, the flexible front panel 2 is a fully transparent sheet material while the rear panel 3 is of a whit sheet material. Thus, the resilient member 5 and the sample product 2 are visible. In the figure the resilient member 5 is drawn with dotted lines to indicate that it is located behind the flexible front panel 3.The smelling pouch 1 comprises a flexible front panel 3, a flexible rear panel 4, and a resilient member 5. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the flexible front panel 2 is a fully transparent sheet material while the rear panel 3 is or a whit sheet material. Thus, the resilient member 5 and the sample product 2 are visible. In the figure the resilient member 5 is drawn with dotted lines to indicate that it is located behind the flexible front panel 3.

The flexible front panel 3 and the flexible rear panel 4 are sealed to each other such that the front panel and the rear panel delimit between them a product chamber 6, holding the sample product 2, and an air chamber 7, holding the resilient member 5.The flexible front panel 3 and the flexible rear panel 4 are sealed to each other such that the front panel and the rear panel delimit between them a product chamber 6, holding the sample product 2, and an air chamber 7, holding the resilient member 5 .

The product chamber 6 and air chamber 5 are located adjacent each other and are separated by a barrier 8, which barrier 8 is formed by sealing the front panel 3 to the rear panel 4. The barrier forms multiple air passages 9 between the product chamber 6 and the air chamber 5.The product chamber 6 and air chamber 5 are located adjacent to each other and are separated by a barrier 8, which barrier 8 is formed by sealing the front panel 3 to the rear panel 4. The barrier forms multiple air passages 9 between the product chamber 6 and the air chamber 5.

The air passages 9 are dimensioned such that they allow air to freely pass from the product chamber 6 to the air chamber 5, and from the air chamber 5 to the product chamber 6, while they prevent sample product to pass from the product chamber to the air chamber.The air passages 9 are dimensioned such that they allow air to freely pass from the product chamber 6, and from the air chamber 5 to the product chamber 6, while they prevent sample product to pass from the product chamber to the air chamber.

- 10ln the exemplary embodiment shown, the product chamber is provided with an air inlet/outlet 10, in the form of a cluster of multiple perforations, in the front panel 3, for allowing air to flow into the product chamber 6 and out of the product chamber 6.- 10ln the exemplary embodiment shown, the product chamber is provided with an air inlet / outlet 10, in the form of a cluster of multiple perforations, in the front panel 3, for allowing air to flow into the product chamber 6 and out of the product chamber 6.

The resilient member 5 is located in the air chamber 5. The resilient member 5 is provided in the form of a folded strip of plastic material, which folded strip functions as a spring. The resilient member 5 pushes the front panel 3 away from the rear panel 4, such that the resilient member 5 in combination with the front panel 3 and rear panel forms 4 an air pump or bellow.The resilient member 5 is located in the air chamber 5. The resilient member 5 is provided in the form of a folded strip or plastic material, which folded strip functions as a spring. The resilient member 5 pushes the front panel 3 away from the rear panel 4, such that the resilient member 5 in combination with the front panel 3 and rear panel forms 4 an air pump or bellow.

A user can hold the aroma dispensing pouch 1 at the air chamber 7, compress the resilient member 5 by manually squeezing the air chamber 7 to thus urge air from the air chamber 7 into the product chamber 6 via the air passages 9 and out of the product chamber 6 via the air inlet/outlet 10. The flow of air passes along the sample product 2 in the product chamber an thus mixes with the aroma of the sample product, which aroma is carried by the flow of ait out of the product chamber, and is thus present to the user holding the aroma smelling pouch.A user can hold the aroma dispensing pouch 1 at the air chamber 7, compress the resilient member 5 by manually squeezing the air chamber 7 to thus urge air from the air chamber 7 into the product chamber 6 via the air passages 9 and out of the product chamber 6 via the air inlet / outlet 10. The flow of air passes along the sample product 2 in the product chamber and thus mixes with the aroma or the sample product, which aroma is carried by the flow or out of the product chamber , and is thus present to the user holding the aroma smelling pouch.

When the user subsequently releases the compressed resilient member, allowing it to return to its original shape and thus push the front and rear panel away from each other, air is drawn into the product chamber 6 via the air inlet/outlet 10 and from there, via the one or more air passages 9, into the air chamber 7. Thus the aroma dispensing pouch is again ready for dispensing aroma of the sample product held in the product chamber.When the user successively releases the compressed resilient member, allowing it to return to its original shape and thus push the front and rear panel away from each other, air is drawn into the product chamber 6 via the air inlet / outlet 10 and from there, via the one or more air passages 9, into the air chamber 7. Thus the aroma dispensing pouch is again ready for dispensing aroma or the sample product hero in the product chamber.

Fig. 2 shows a perspective front view of a second exemplary embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch 21 according to the invention. The smelling pouch 21 according to the invention comprises a flexible front panel 23 and a flexible rear panel 24, which front panel and rear panel are sealed onto each other such that they define a product chamber 26 and an air chamber 27 separated by a barrier 28. An air inlet/outlet 11 is provided in the font panel, in the form of a cluster of perforations of the front panel.FIG. 2 shows a perspective front view or a second example of an aroma smelling pouch 21 according to the invention. The smelling pouch 21 according to the invention comprises a flexible front panel 23 and a flexible rear panel 24, which front panel and rear panel are sealed onto each other such that they define a product chamber 26 and an air chamber 27 separated by a barrier 28 An air inlet / outlet 11 is provided in the font panel, in the form of a cluster or perforations of the front panel.

The product chamber 26 holds a sample product 22, in the exemplary embodiment shown coffee beans, and the air chamber 27 holds a resilient member 5. In contrast with the aroma smelling pouch 1 shown in Fig.1, the flexible front panel 23 is provided with a print that covers the air chamber 27 and part of the product chamber 26, providing the product chamber with a window 31 at its top end, which window 31 provides a view of the sample product, and thus allows for visual inspection of the sample product. In an alternative embodiment, the flexible front panel and the flexible rear panel may be opaque and/or beThe product chamber 26 holds a sample product 22, in the exemplary embodiment shown coffee beans, and the air chamber 27 holds a resilient member 5. In contrast to the aroma melting pouch 1 shown in Fig. 1, the flexible front panel 23 is provided with a print that covers the air chamber 27 and part of the product chamber 26, providing the product chamber with a window 31 at its top end, which window 31 provides a view of the sample product, and thus allows for visual inspection of the sample product. In an alternative embodiment, the flexible front panel and the flexible rear panel may be opaque and / or be

-11provided with a print that blocks visual inspection of both the air chamber and the product chamber entirely.-11provided with a print that blocks visual inspection of both the air chamber and the product chamber entirely.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the print on the front panel 23 is provided with a mark 32 that indicates where to press the resilient member held in the air chamber 27.In the exemplary embodiment shown, the print on the front panel 23 is provided with a mark 32 that indicates where to press the resilient member hero in the air chamber 27.

Furthermore, the aroma smelling pouch 31 shown in fig. 2 is provided with an additional panel 33 between the front panel and the rear panel, forming a wall of the air chamber 27, and providing a self-standing smelling pouch that is self-supporting and can maintain a stable vertical standing position with the product chamber and the air chamber located one above the other, when standing on a substantially horizontal support surface. In a preferred alternative embodiment of such a self standing pouch, the product chamber is provided below the air chamber, to provide a more stable configuration. In such an embodiment, the extra panel is part of the product chamber. In such an embodiment, the air inlet/outlet can be provided in the extra panel.Furthermore, the aroma smelling pouch 31 shown in Fig. 2 is provided with an additional panel 33 between the front panel and the rear panel, forming a wall of the air chamber 27, and providing a self-standing smelling pouch that is self-supporting and can maintain a stable vertical standing position with the product chamber and the air chamber located above the other, when standing on a substantial horizontal support surface. In a preferred alternative version or such a self-standing pouch, the product chamber is provided below the air chamber, to provide a more stable configuration. In such an embodiment, the additional panel is part of the product chamber. In such an embodiment, the air inlet / outlet can be provided in the extra panel.

Fig. 3 shows a perspective front view of a third exemplary embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention.FIG. 3 shows a perspective front view or a third exemplary embodiment or an aroma smelling pouch according to the invention.

Fig. 3 shows a perspective front view of a third exemplary embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch 41 according to the invention. The smelling pouch 41 according to the invention comprises a flexible front panel 43 and a flexible rear panel 44, which front panel and rear panel are sealed onto each other such that they define a product chamber 46 and an air chamber 47 separated by a barrier 48.FIG. 3 shows a perspective front view or a third exemplary embodiment or an aroma smelling pouch 41 according to the invention. The smelling pouch 41 according to the invention comprises a flexible front panel 43 and a flexible rear panel 44, which front panel and rear panel are sealed onto each other such that they define a product chamber 46 and an air chamber 47 separated by a barrier 48 .

An air inlet/outlet 51 is provided in the font panel 43. In the embodiment shown, the air inlet/outlet 51 is provided in the form of an insert comprising a porous membrane, which insert has been sealed into an opening in the front panel.An air inlet / outlet 51 is provided in the font panel 43. In the embodiment shown, the air inlet / outlet 51 is provided in the form of an insert including a porous membrane, which insert has been sealed into an opening in the front panel .

The product chamber 46 holds a sample product 42, in the exemplary embodiment shown coffee beans, and the air chamber 47 holds a resilient member. The flexible front panel 43 is provided with a print that covers the air chamber 47 and part of the product chamber 46, providing the product chamber with a central window 51, which window 51 provides a view of the sample product, and thus allows for visual inspection of the sample product.The product chamber 46 holds a sample product 42, in the exemplary embodiment shown coffee beans, and the air chamber 47 holds a resilient member. The flexible front panel 43 is provided with a print that covers the air chamber 47 and part of the product chamber 46, providing the product chamber with a central window 51, which window 51 provides a view of the sample product, and thus allows for visual inspection of the sample product.

The aroma smelling pouch 41 is provided with a mounting aperture 54, for suspending the aroma smelling pouch 41 from a support, e.g. a hook or nail. The mounting aperture 54 is provided in an area wherein the front panel 43 is sealed to the rear panel 44, such that the mounting aperture 54 is not connected with the air chamber 47.The aroma smelling pouch 41 is provided with a mounting aperture 54, for suspending the aroma smelling pouch 41 from a support, e.g. a hook or nail. The mounting aperture 54 is provided in an area in front of the front panel 43 is sealed to the rear panel 44, such that the mounting aperture 54 is not connected to the air chamber 47.

-12Fig. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of an aroma smelling pouch 61 according to the invention. In the embodiment shown, the product chamber 56 is provided with a zip lock closure 66, to enable access to the product chamber 56.-12fig. 4 shows an exploded perspective view or a fourth exemplary embodiment or an aroma smelling pouch 61 according to the invention. Shown in the embodiment, the product chamber 56 is provided with a zip lock closure 66, to enable access to the product chamber 56.

Furthermore, the barrier 58 and the resilient member 55 are provided in an integral, injection moulded body 67, to be sealed between the front panel 53 and the rear panel 54. The barrier member is provided with multiple air passages 59 dimensioned such that they allow for air to freely pass from the product chamber to the air chamber and from the air chamber to the product chamber.Furthermore, the barrier 58 and the resilient member 55 are provided in an integral, injection molded body 67, to be sealed between the front panel 53 and the rear panel 54. The barrier member is provided with multiple air passages 59 dimensioned such that they allow for air to freely pass from the product chamber to the air chamber and from the air chamber to the product chamber.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the sample product 52 is provided in a bag 66 made out of a knitted, net like material, which bag holds the batch of sample product together, and allows for aroma to dispense through the product chamber while preventing sample product to enter the air passages.In the exemplary embodiment shown, the sample product 52 is provided in a bag 66 made out of a knitted, just like material, which bag holds the batch or sample product together, and allows for aroma to dispense through the product chamber while preventing sample product to enter the air passages.

Claims

CONCLUSIONS

A hand-held aroma-smelling pouch, for spreading an aromatic odor of a product sample, such as a quantity of coffee beans, scent granules, tea leaves, tobacco, etc, held in the smelling pouch, said smelling pouch having a flexible front panel, a flexible rear panel and comprises a resilient body, wherein the flexible front panel and the flexible rear panel are sealed together such that the front panel and the rear panel define a product chamber containing both the product sample and an air chamber containing the resilient body, which product chamber and air chamber are positioned apart and separated from each other by a barrier, which barrier is preferably formed by sealing the front panel to the rear panel, and which barrier forms one or more air passages between the product chamber and the air chamber, which one or more air passages are such dimensioned that they are the free flow of air from onion t enable the product chamber to the air chamber and from the air chamber to the product chamber, while they are preferably dimensioned such that they simultaneously prevent the passage of product sample from the product chamber to the air chamber, wherein the product chamber is provided with an air inlet / outlet, preferably in the front and / or rear panel, to allow the flow of air into and out of the product chamber, the resilient body being provided in the air chamber in which it pushes the front panel away from the rear panel such that the resilient member combination with the front panel and rear panel forms an air pump, which air pump makes it possible to push air from the air chamber into the product chamber via the one or more air passages and out of the product chamber via the air inlet / outlet, when manually squeezing the air chamber, and thus compressing the resilient body, and then air to enter the product chamber stretch through the air inlet / outlet and through the one or more air passages into the air chamber by releasing the resilient member, thus returning it to its original shape.

- 14

Aroma-smelling pouch according to claim 1, wherein the product chamber and / or the air chamber are / are provided with a zip-lock closure, to provide access to the product chamber and / or air chamber.

The aroma-scrubbing bag of claim 1, wherein the front panel and the rear panel are sealed together along their entire circumference.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the aroma-smelling pouch furthermore comprises an air inlet / outlet seal, preferably in the form of a seal which is removably attached to the panel in which the air inlet / outlet is provided, to seal the air inlet / outlet.

The aroma-smelling pouch according to claim 4, wherein the air inlet / outlet is provided in the form of a set of perforations in the front panel or rear panel.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of perforations are microperforations which are dimensioned such that they only allow air to pass in the event of a pressure difference between the inside and outside of the product chamber, said pressure difference being brought about by the air pump of the aroma-smell pouch.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to claim 4, wherein the air inlet / outlet is provided in the form of a valve, which valve is sealed in an opening in the front panel or the rear panel.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the smelling pouch is a self-standing smelling pouch, such that the smelling pouch is self-supporting and can maintain a stable vertical standing position, preferably with the product chamber and air chamber positioned one above the other when rests on a substantially horizontal supporting surface.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the smelling pouch is provided with one or more reinforcement parts, which one or more reinforcement parts extend from one side of the barrier to the opposite sides of the barrier to such an extent that they avoid double folding of the smelling pouch at the barrier when the smelling pouch is held at the air chamber with the product chamber above the air chamber.

- Ιδ

Aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the resilient member is a curved flexible strip, preferably a curved flexible strip of plastic material.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the aroma-smelling pouch is provided with a suspension opening for suspending the aroma-smelling pouch from a support, e.g. a hook or nail, which mounting opening is provided in an area wherein the front panel is sealed to the rear panel so that the suspension opening is not connected to the product chamber and / or the air chamber.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the air chamber has a volume that is comparable or smaller than the volume of the product chamber, for example a volume with half the volume of the volume of the product chamber.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the product chamber is provided with a transparent window that allows visual inspection of the contents of the product chamber.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the smelling pouch is provided with an imprint on those parts of the front panel and of the rear panel which bound the air chamber, which prevent visual inspection of the interior of the air chamber.

Aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the smelling pouch is provided with printed instructions, for example with an "press here" instruction printed on the smelling pouch at the location of the air chamber and / or an "smell here" instruction printed on the bag at the location of the air inlet / outlet.

A method for providing an aroma-smelling pouch according to one or more of the preceding claims, which method comprises the following steps:

providing a front panel and a rear panel for forming the aroma-smell pouch;

the front panel and / or the back panel provided with an air inlet / outlet in a surface of the front and / or rear panel that will define the product chamber;

sealing the front panel to the rear panel along opposite sides of these panels, thereby providing an airtight seal between these panels along the

16 opposite sides, and partially sealing the front panel at the rear panel from one side to the other, thereby providing a barrier extending between the opposite sides of the panels, thus providing a product chamber on one side of the barrier and an air chamber on an opposite side of the

Barrier, said product chamber and said air chamber each having an open side, and one or more air passages extending between the product chamber and the air chamber;

providing the product chamber with a product sample and closing the product chamber, preferably by sealing the front panel to the rear panel along the open side of the product chamber;

providing the air chamber with a resilient body and closing the air chamber, preferably by sealing the front panel to the rear panel along the open side of the air chamber.

A method according to claim 16, which method comprises the further step of: applying an air inlet / outlet valve to the air inlet / outlet or air inlet / outlet valves, preferably by a removable seal or removable seals on an outer surface of the front panel and / or the rear panel in which the respective

20 air inlet / outlet is provided for attaching.

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