US20130098785A1 - Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco - Google Patents

Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US20130098785A1
US20130098785A1 US13/441,373 US201213441373A US2013098785A1 US 20130098785 A1 US20130098785 A1 US 20130098785A1 US 201213441373 A US201213441373 A US 201213441373A US 2013098785 A1 US2013098785 A1 US 2013098785A1
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
bag
tobacco
microns
present
bar
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
US13/441,373
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Marcos Andre Steffens
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Alliance One International Inc
Original Assignee
Individual
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 Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US13/441,373 priority Critical patent/US20130098785A1/en
Priority to PL12841786T priority patent/PL2768737T3/pl
Priority to ES12841786.2T priority patent/ES2651241T3/es
Priority to EP12841786.2A priority patent/EP2768737B1/en
Priority to BR112014009329-6A priority patent/BR112014009329B1/pt
Priority to CN201280063319.8A priority patent/CN104159824B/zh
Priority to PCT/US2012/032718 priority patent/WO2013058823A2/en
Assigned to ALLIANCE ONE INTERNATIONAL, INC. reassignment ALLIANCE ONE INTERNATIONAL, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: STEFFENS, Marcos Andre
Priority to US13/758,399 priority patent/US10065752B2/en
Publication of US20130098785A1 publication Critical patent/US20130098785A1/en
Priority to HK15101270.2A priority patent/HK1200784A1/zh
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B1/00—Packaging fluent solid material, e.g. powders, granular or loose fibrous material, loose masses of small articles, in individual containers or receptacles, e.g. bags, sacks, boxes, cartons, cans, or jars
    • B65B1/20—Reducing volume of filled material
    • B65B1/26—Reducing volume of filled material by pneumatic means, e.g. suction
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F23/00—Cases for tobacco, snuff, or chewing tobacco
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B29/00—Packaging of materials presenting special problems
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B31/00—Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditions; Adding propellants to aerosol containers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B31/00—Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditions; Adding propellants to aerosol containers
    • B65B31/04—Evacuating, pressurising or gasifying filled containers or wrappers by means of nozzles through which air or other gas, e.g. an inert gas, is withdrawn or supplied
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
    • B65B61/00—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages
    • B65B61/20—Auxiliary devices, not otherwise provided for, for operating on sheets, blanks, webs, binding material, containers or packages for adding cards, coupons or other inserts to package contents
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
    • B65D77/04—Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another
    • B65D77/06—Liquids or semi-liquids or other materials or articles enclosed in flexible containers disposed within rigid containers
    • B65D77/062—Flexible containers disposed within polygonal containers formed by folding a carton blank
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D81/18—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient
    • B65D81/20—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas
    • B65D81/2007—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas under vacuum
    • B65D81/2023—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas under vacuum in a flexible container
    • B65D81/203—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas under vacuum in a flexible container with one or several rigid inserts
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D81/00—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents
    • B65D81/18—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient
    • B65D81/20—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas
    • B65D81/2007—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas under vacuum
    • B65D81/2038—Containers, packaging elements, or packages, for contents presenting particular transport or storage problems, or adapted to be used for non-packaging purposes after removal of contents providing specific environment for contents, e.g. temperature above or below ambient under vacuum or superatmospheric pressure, or in a special atmosphere, e.g. of inert gas under vacuum with means for establishing or improving vacuum
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
    • B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
    • B65D85/07—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles
    • B65D85/08—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles rod-shaped or tubular
    • B65D85/10—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for compressible or flexible articles rod-shaped or tubular for cigarettes
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N31/00—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods
    • G01N31/22—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
    • G01N31/229—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators for investigating time/temperature history
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01N—INVESTIGATING OR ANALYSING MATERIALS BY DETERMINING THEIR CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
    • G01N31/00—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods
    • G01N31/22—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators
    • G01N31/222—Investigating or analysing non-biological materials by the use of the chemical methods specified in the subgroup; Apparatus specially adapted for such methods using chemical indicators for investigating moisture content

Definitions

  • the present invention relates generally to tobacco and, more particularly, to tobacco packing.
  • Leaf or “strip” tobacco as well as other types of tobacco, is conventionally packed in rectangular cartons for storage and shipping. These rectangular cartons are typically constructed of cardboard and have standardized sizes to reduce transportation and packing costs.
  • An exemplary cardboard carton 10 also known as a “C48” carton, is illustrated in FIG. 1 .
  • the “C48” designation is derived from the fact that 48 of these cartons can be placed within a standard 20 foot shipping container.
  • ⁇ packing presses are used to fill containers, such as C48 cartons, with tobacco.
  • containers such as C48 cartons
  • an open C48 carton communicates at its top with an elongated, hollow, upright charger.
  • the charger supports a column of tobacco extending upwardly from the carton.
  • a vertically acting press ram having a press head is aligned above the charger so that the ram can be operated to force the press head downwardly through the charger to, or into, the carton.
  • the tobacco packing press may press the tobacco into a compression chamber, from where it is further forced into the carton. With the press head raised, the tobacco is supplied into the top of the charger, for example by a conveyor positioned below the press head.
  • the tobacco is supplied until the charger contains a predetermined quantity of loose uncompacted tobacco (e.g., strip, loose leaf, bundle, butted loose leaf, cut rag, etc.).
  • the ram is then operated to force the press head downwardly through the charger and compress the entire quantity of tobacco into the carton.
  • Exemplary packing presses are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,641,734 and 4,457,125.
  • Apparatus and methods of packing leaf tobacco preserve the integrity of tobacco, help retain freshness and moisture content of tobacco, and also help eliminate insect infestation.
  • Embodiments of the present invention may be used with all types of tobacco including, but not limited to, Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco, Burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, Sun Cured tobacco, Dark Fired tobacco, etc.
  • FCV Flue Cured Virginia
  • Burley tobacco Oriental tobacco
  • Sun Cured tobacco Dark Fired tobacco
  • green tobacco may be packed in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
  • embodiments of the present invention may be used with tobacco in all forms including, but not limited to, strip, loose leaf, bundle, butted loose leaf, cut rag, etc.
  • a packing container for tobacco includes a carton, and a flexible, non-porous bag located within the carton.
  • the carton is a rectangular cardboard container, such as a standard C48 or A48 carton.
  • the bag includes a closeable opening through which the bag receives a quantity of tightly packed tobacco.
  • the bag is configured to have air extracted therefrom and to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein of, for example, between about 0.10 bar to about 0.80 bar.
  • a colorimetric detector is inserted within the bag before closing the opening of the bag.
  • the colorimetric detector is positioned so as to be viewable through the closed bag or through a portion of the closed bag.
  • the colorimetric detector is configured to change color when an environmental condition within the bag changes and/or when a chemical element associated with the tobacco within the bag changes.
  • the colorimetric detector may be configured to change color when a moisture level and/or temperature level within the bag is outside of a predetermined range.
  • the colorimetric detector may be configured to change color when an oxygen level, nitrogen level, and/or carbon-dioxide level, for example, within the bag is outside of a predetermined range.
  • the colorimetric detector may be configured to change color when a chemical element (e.g., nitrosamines, sugars, oils, etc.) level associated with the tobacco within the bag is outside of a predetermined range.
  • a chemical element e.g., nitrosamines, sugars, oils, etc.
  • the flexible, non-porous bag is formed from a multi-layered composite material with at least one of the layers being an aluminum layer.
  • the multi-layered composite includes an aluminum layer sandwiched between first and second polymeric layers.
  • the bag is formed from a multi-layered composite having a polystyrene inner layer, an aluminum middle layer, and a nylon outer layer.
  • the bag is formed from a semi-transparent or opaque material, or is formed from a multi-layered composite having at least one layer being a semi-transparent or opaque material.
  • a flexible, non-porous bag according to some embodiments of the present invention may have a wall thickness of at least about 100 microns. In other embodiments, wall thickness may be between about 100 microns and about 200 microns.
  • the bag opening is a re-sealable opening including a male zipper portion and a corresponding female zipper portion that is configured to matingly engage with the male zipper portion.
  • a slide mechanism is movably secured to the bag opening and is configured to slide along the opening and facilitate engagement of the male and female zipper portions to close the bag.
  • the bag includes a valve that is utilized for extracting air therefrom.
  • the valve may also be utilized to purge the bag, when closed, for example with an inert gas prior to extracting air from the bag.
  • a packing container for tobacco comprises a flexible, non-porous bag having a closeable opening through which the bag receives a quantity of tightly packed tobacco.
  • the bag is configured to have air extracted therefrom and to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein, for example, of between about 0.10 bar to about 0.80 bar.
  • the bag is formed from an opaque or semi-transparent material.
  • the bag is formed from a multi-layered composite material, and wherein at least one of the layers comprises aluminum.
  • the bag is formed from a multi-layered composite material, and wherein at least one of the layers is an opaque or semi-transparent material, or wherein at least one layer has a color that renders the layer opaque or semi-transparent.
  • the bag has a tubular shape. In other embodiments, the bag has a generally rectangular or cubic shape.
  • a colorimetric detector is inserted within the bag before closing the opening of the bag.
  • the colorimetric detector is positioned so as to be viewable through the closed bag or a portion of the bag.
  • the colorimetric detector is configured to change color when an environmental condition within the bag changes and/or when a chemical element associated with the tobacco within the bag changes.
  • the colorimetric detector may be configured to change color when a moisture level, oxygen level, nitrogen level and/or carbon-dioxide level within the bag is outside of a predetermined range, as described above.
  • the colorimetric detector may be configured to change color when a chemical element (e.g., nitrosamines, sugars, oils, etc.) level associated with the tobacco within the bag is outside of a predetermined range.
  • a chemical element e.g., nitrosamines, sugars, oils, etc.
  • a method of packing tobacco includes supplying a quantity of tightly packed tobacco into a flexible, non-porous bag through a closeable opening thereof, wherein the bag is positioned within an open container; closing the opening of the bag; extracting air from the bag so as to create a sub-atmospheric pressure therein; and closing the open container such that the bag resides within the closed container.
  • the step of supplying a quantity of tightly packed tobacco into the bag may include compressing the tobacco within the bag by forcing a press ram downwardly through the bag opening.
  • the closed bag is purged with an inert gas prior to extracting air from the bag.
  • a method of packing tobacco includes supplying a quantity of tightly packed tobacco into a flexible, non-porous bag through a closeable opening thereof; closing the opening of the bag; and extracting air from the bag so as to create a sub-atmospheric pressure therein.
  • the step of supplying a quantity of tightly packed tobacco into the bag may include compressing the tobacco within the bag by forcing a press ram downwardly through the bag opening.
  • the closed bag is purged with an inert gas prior to extracting air from the bag.
  • a method of packing tobacco includes supplying a quantity of tightly packed tobacco into a plurality of flexible, non-porous bags through a respective closeable opening of each, wherein each bag is positioned within a respective open rectangular carton; closing the openings of the bags; extracting air from the bags so as to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein; closing the open cartons such that each bag resides within a respective closed carton; and stacking the closed cartons.
  • the closed containers are stacked within a shipping container.
  • a method of packing tobacco includes supplying a quantity of tightly packed tobacco into a plurality of flexible, non-porous bags through a respective closeable opening of each; closing the openings of the bags; extracting air from the bags so as to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein; and stacking the closed bags.
  • the closed bags are stacked within a shipping container.
  • a packing container for leaf tobacco comprises a carton having a sealable opening through which the carton receives a quantity of tightly packed tobacco.
  • the carton is configured to have air extracted therefrom and to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein of, for example, between about 0.10 bar to about 0.80 bar.
  • the carton includes a valve through which air is extracted from the carton.
  • the valve is a two-way valve to permit the carton to be purged with an inert gas prior to extracting air from the carton.
  • the carton includes a colorimetric detector that is viewable through a window in the carton.
  • the colorimetric detector is configured to change color when an environmental condition within the carton changes and/or when a chemical element associated with the tobacco within the carton changes.
  • the colorimetric detector may be configured to change color when a moisture level within the carton is outside of a predetermined range.
  • the colorimetric detector may be configured to change color when an oxygen level, nitrogen level and/or carbon-dioxide level within the carton is outside of a predetermined range.
  • the colorimetric detector may be configured to change color when a chemical element (e.g., nitrosamines, sugars, oils, etc.) level associated with the tobacco within the carton is outside of a predetermined range.
  • a chemical element e.g., nitrosamines, sugars, oils, etc.
  • a method of packing tobacco includes supplying a quantity of tobacco into a plurality of open containers; closing the opening containers; inserting the closed containers within a flexible, non-porous bag having a closeable opening; closing the opening of the bag; and extracting air from the bag so as to create a sub-atmospheric pressure therein.
  • the bag is configured to hold one or more tobacco containers, such as C48 or A48 cartons. In some embodiments the bag may be configured to hold up to six containers, such as C48 or A48 cartons.
  • the bag is configured to have air extracted therefrom and to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein of, for example, between about 0.10 bar to about 0.80 bar.
  • the flexible, non-porous bag may be formed from a multi-layered composite material with at least one of the layers being an aluminum layer.
  • the multi-layered composite includes an aluminum layer sandwiched between first and second polymeric layers.
  • the bag is formed from a multi-layered composite having a polystyrene inner layer, an aluminum middle layer, and a nylon outer layer.
  • the bag is formed from a semi-transparent or opaque material, or is formed from a multi-layered composite having at least one layer being a semi-transparent or opaque material.
  • the flexible, non-porous bag may have a wall thickness of at least about 100 microns, and may have a wall thickness between about 100 microns and about 200 microns.
  • the bag opening is a re-sealable opening including a male zipper portion and a corresponding female zipper portion that is configured to matingly engage with the male zipper portion.
  • the bag includes a valve that is utilized for extracting air therefrom.
  • the valve may also be utilized to purge the bag, when closed, for example with an inert gas prior to extracting air from the bag.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a conventional carton for storing and shipping tobacco.
  • FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of a flexible, non-porous bag for receiving tobacco therein, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3A is an enlarged, exploded view of a multi-layered composite material out of which a flexible, non-porous bag for receiving tobacco therein is formed, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 3B is an enlarged, exploded view of a multi-layered composite material out of which a flexible, non-porous bag for receiving tobacco therein is formed, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates packing containers, according to some embodiments of the present invention, on a conveyor for receiving a quantity of tightly packed tobacco from a packing press.
  • FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a flexible, non-porous bag of one of the packing containers of FIG. 4 after receiving a quantity of tightly packed tobacco therewithin, after the bag opening has been closed, and with the filled bag removed from the carton.
  • the carton is not shown to illustrate that the tobacco is tightly packed.
  • FIG. 6 is a partial perspective view of the closeable opening of the bag in the packing containers of FIG. 4 and a sliding mechanism that slides along the opening to facilitate engagement of the female and male zipper portions, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7A is an enlarged perspective view of a valve for extracting air from the flexible, non-porous bag of FIG. 5 , according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7B is an enlarged perspective view of the valve of FIG. 7A with the cap thereof being moved to an open position.
  • FIG. 7C is an enlarged perspective view of the valve of FIG. 7A with the cap thereof in the open position.
  • FIG. 7D is an enlarged perspective view of a vacuum tube about to engage the valve of FIG. 7C for extracting air from the bag, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7E illustrates the vacuum tube of FIG. 7D in a seated position over the mouth of the open valve of FIG. 7C .
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a packing container that includes a carton and a flexible bag therein, according to embodiments of the present invention, with a quantity of tobacco within the bag, and after the bag opening has been closed.
  • FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a packing container that includes a carton and a flexible bag therein, according to other embodiments of the present invention, after the bag has received a quantity of tobacco therewithin, and after the bag opening has been closed.
  • FIG. 9B illustrates the packing container of FIG. 9A after air has been extracted from the bag such that the bag has a sub-atmospheric pressure therein, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a plurality of packing containers in a stacked configuration, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a flexible, non-porous bag for receiving tobacco therein, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the flexible, non-porous bag of FIG. 12 with a quantity of tobacco therewithin and with the bag opening closed.
  • FIG. 13 illustrates a plurality of the flexible, non-porous bags of FIG. 11 containing tobacco and in a stacked configuration, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an insertion frame that facilitates placement of a flexible, non-porous bag within a carton, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a carton receiving a flexible, non-porous bag with the assistance of the insertion frame of FIG. 14 .
  • FIG. 16 is a top perspective view of the carton of FIG. 15 with the flexible, non-porous bag received therein and with the insertion frame removed.
  • FIG. 17 is a top perspective view of a sealable carton receiving tobacco therein, according to other embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 18 illustrates the carton of FIG. 17 after receiving tobacco therein, and with the top portions of the carton being closed.
  • FIG. 19 is a top perspective view of a packing container having a sealed bag containing tobacco within a carton and illustrating a colorimetric detector within the sealed bag, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a sealable packing carton, according to some embodiments of the present invention, and including a window through which a colorimetric detector is visible.
  • FIGS. 21-25 illustrate operations for packing tobacco within tubular-shaped bags, according to other embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 26 illustrates a plurality of tubular-shaped bags containing tobacco and in a stacked configuration, according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • FIG. 27A illustrates a flexible, non-porous bag enclosing multiple cartons of tobacco, according to some embodiments of the present invention, and prior to extracting air therefrom.
  • FIG. 27B illustrates the flexible, non-porous bag of FIG. 27A after air has been extracted therefrom.
  • phrases such as “between X and Y” and “between about X and Y” should be interpreted to include X and Y.
  • phrases such as “between about X and Y” mean “between about X and about Y.”
  • phrases such as “from about X to Y” mean “from about X to about Y.”
  • spatially relative terms such as “under”, “below”, “lower”, “over”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the Figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the Figures. For example, if a device in the Figures is inverted, elements described as “under” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompass both an orientation of over and under.
  • the device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.
  • the terms “upwardly”, “downwardly”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and the like are used herein for the purpose of explanation only unless specifically indicated otherwise.
  • first and second are used herein to describe various features or elements, these features or elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one feature or element from another feature or element. Thus, a first feature or element discussed below could be termed a second feature or element, and similarly, a second feature or element discussed below could be termed a first feature or element without departing from the teachings of the present invention.
  • tobacco includes any and all types of tobacco including, but not limited to, Flue Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco, Burley tobacco, Oriental tobacco, Sun Cured tobacco, Dark Fired tobacco, green tobacco, and also includes tobacco in various forms including, but not limited to, strip, loose leaf, bundle, butted loose leaf, and cut rag.
  • FCV Flue Cured Virginia
  • Burley tobacco Burley tobacco
  • Oriental tobacco Sun Cured tobacco
  • Dark Fired tobacco green tobacco
  • tobacco includes any and all types of tobacco including, but not limited to, strip, loose leaf, bundle, butted loose leaf, and cut rag.
  • the illustrated packing container 20 includes a carton 10 , such as a C48 style carton, A48 style carton (both of which are available from Jayaraj Fortune Packaging Private Limited, Andhra Pradesh, India), or other standardized size carton used in the tobacco industry, and a flexible, non-porous bag 30 located within the carton 10 .
  • a carton 10 such as a C48 style carton, A48 style carton (both of which are available from Jayaraj Fortune Packaging Private Limited, Andhra Pradesh, India), or other standardized size carton used in the tobacco industry
  • a flexible, non-porous bag 30 located within the carton 10 .
  • Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to C48 or A48 cartons, or even to rectangular cartons.
  • Various types and shapes of cartons and containers may be utilized to contain a flexible, non-porous bag 30 according to embodiments of the present invention.
  • C48 and A48 cartons are typically cardboard cartons.
  • a packing container carton 10 according to embodiments of the present invention, can be formed from
  • the illustrated non-porous bag 30 includes a closeable opening 32 through which the bag 30 receives a quantity of tobacco, for example, tightly packed tobacco from a packing press ( 70 , FIG. 4 ).
  • the closeable opening 32 is large enough to allow tobacco packing press equipment to be inserted within a bag 30 to supply a quantity of tobacco.
  • the bag opening 32 is a re-sealable opening that includes a male zipper portion 34 and a corresponding female zipper portion 36 that is configured to matingly engage with the male zipper portion 34 ( FIG. 6 ).
  • the male zipper portion 34 includes a plurality of elongated ribs 34 a that are configured to releasably engage respective elongated channels 36 a in the female zipper portion 36 .
  • a slide mechanism 38 ( FIG. 6 ) is movably secured to the bag opening 32 and is configured to slide along the bag opening 32 to facilitate engagement of the male and female zipper portions 34 , 36 in order to close the bag opening 32 after the bag 30 has been supplied with a quantity of tobacco.
  • a user moves the slide mechanism 38 back and forth along the opening 32 one or more time to ensure that the elongated ribs 34 a are completely engaged within the elongated channels 36 a such that the bag 30 is sealed closed.
  • the bag opening 32 is configured to withstand numerous openings and closings without losing integrity.
  • Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the configuration of the illustrated bag opening 32 or to the illustrated configuration of the male and female zipper portions 34 , 36 . Moreover, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to zipper-type openings. Various types of re-sealable openings may be utilized in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, without limitation. In addition, non-resealable openings may be utilized. For example, in some embodiments of the present invention, a bag opening 32 may be heat sealed.
  • the illustrated bag 30 also includes a valve 40 ( FIG. 4 ) that is utilized for extracting air from the bag 30 after receiving tobacco therein and after the bag opening 32 is sealed closed.
  • the valve 40 may be a two-way valve to allow the bag 30 to be purged with an inert gas (e.g., nitrogen, etc.) prior to being used to extract air from the bag 30 .
  • an inert gas e.g., nitrogen, etc.
  • the illustrated valve 40 includes a cap 42 that is movable between closed ( FIG. 7A ) and open positions ( FIG. 7C ). When the cap 42 is in the open position, a vacuum tube 50 ( FIGS.
  • valve 40 is a one-way valve that only permits extraction of air from a bag 30 .
  • FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating various dimensions of an exemplary flexible, non-porous bag 30 for packing containers 20 , according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • the illustrated bag 30 has an internal length, indicated by “L-O”, and an internal width, indicated by “W-O”.
  • an exemplary dimension for “L-O” is about 130 cm and an exemplary dimension for “W-O” is about 200 cm.
  • the interior volume 30 a has a tapered bottom portion 30 b, as illustrated.
  • the tapered bottom portion 30 b has a length, indicated by “g-o”.
  • An exemplary dimension for “g-o” is about 74 cm.
  • other dimensions may be utilized for “W-O”, “L-O”, and “g-o”. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to these particular dimensions.
  • the valve 40 is located a distance “a” from the top of the bag, and is located a distance “b” from the side of the bag, as illustrated.
  • An exemplary dimension “a” is about 20 cm and an exemplary dimension “b” is about 100 cm.
  • other dimensions may be utilized for “a” and “b”. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to these particular dimensions.
  • Bags 30 (and 130 , FIGS. 11-13 ), according to embodiments of the present invention, are not limited to the illustrated configuration and dimensions of FIG. 2 . Bags of various external and internal shapes and configurations may be utilized, without limitation. For example, as described below with respect to FIGS. 21-26 , a bag may have a tubular shape. Moreover, a valve 40 may be located in various locations on a bag 30 , 130 , 330 ( FIG. 26 ).
  • Flexible, non-porous bags 30 (and 130 , FIGS. 11-13 , and 330 , FIGS. 21-26 ), according to embodiments of the present invention, are formed from material sufficient to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein of between about 0.10 bar to about 0.80 bar for an indefinite period time and to also support the weight of the tobacco therein.
  • Bags 30 , 130 , 330 may be configured to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein anywhere within the range of about 0.10 bar to about 0.80 bar (e.g., 0.10 bar, 0.11 bar, 0.12 bar, 0.13 bar, 0.14 bar, 0.15 bar, 0.16 bar, 0.17 bar, 0.18 bar, 0.19 bar, 0.20 bar, 0.21 bar, 0.22 bar, 0.23 bar, 0.24 bar, 0.25 bar, 0.26 bar, 0.27 bar, 0.28 bar, 0.29 bar, 0.30 bar, 0.31 bar, 0.32 bar, 0.33 bar, 0.34 bar, 0.35 bar, 0.36 bar, 0.37 bar, 0.38 bar, 0.39 bar, 0.40 bar, 0.41 bar, 0.42 bar, 0.43 bar, 0.44 bar, 0.45 bar, 0.46 bar, 0.47 bar, 0.48 bar, 0.49 bar, 0.50 bar, 0.51 bar, 0.52 bar, 0.53 bar, 0.54 bar, 0.55 bar, 0.56 bar, 0.57 bar, 0.58 bar, 0.59 bar,
  • 0.10 bar e
  • bags 30 (and 130 , FIGS. 11-13 , and 330 , FIGS. 21-26 ) according to embodiments of the present invention can be configured to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein in any range within the range of 0.10 bar to 0.80 bar (e.g., 0.10 bar to 0.20 bar; 0.20 bar to 0.30 bar; 0.30 bar to 0.40 bar; 0.40 bar to 0.50 bar; 0.50 bar to 0.60 bar; 0.60 bar to 0.70 bar; 0.70 bar to 0.80 bar; etc.).
  • 0.10 bar to 0.20 bar e.g., 0.10 bar to 0.20 bar; 0.20 bar to 0.30 bar; 0.30 bar to 0.40 bar; 0.40 bar to 0.50 bar; 0.50 bar to 0.60 bar; 0.60 bar to 0.70 bar; 0.70 bar to 0.80 bar; etc.
  • Sub-atmospheric pressure may be varied in order to control aging and/or fermentation of tobacco stored within bags 30 (and 130 , FIGS. 11-13 , and 330 , FIGS. 21-26 ), according to embodiments of the present invention.
  • some customers may desire a certain aging rate and/or fermentation of tobacco within a bag 30 , 130 , 330 which can be controlled via the sub-atmospheric pressure within the bag 30 , 130 , 330 .
  • a packing container 20 filled with tobacco in accordance with embodiments of the present invention may be stored for years.
  • the internal bag 30 is designed to maintain the desired sub-atmospheric pressure for the entire length of the storage.
  • the non-porous characteristic of the bag material prohibits insects and other pests from detecting the presence of tobacco within the bag 30 because no smell (e.g., tobacco odor) can escape from the bag 30 .
  • An exemplary wall thickness of flexible, non-porous material for use in bags 30 is about 100 microns. However, material with different wall thicknesses, higher or lower than 100 microns, may be utilized. In some embodiments, a wall thickness of flexible, non-porous material for use in bags 30 may be between about 100 microns and about 200 microns.
  • any size within this range may be utilized e.g., 101 microns, 102 microns, 103 microns, 104 microns, 105 microns, 106 microns, 107 microns, 108 microns, 109 microns, 110 microns, 111 microns, 112 microns, 113 microns, 114 microns, 115 microns, 116 microns, 117 microns, 118 microns, 119 microns, 120 microns, 121 microns, 122 microns, 123 microns, 124 microns, 125 microns, 126 microns, 127 microns, 128 microns, 129 microns, 130 microns, 131 microns, 132 microns, 133 microns, 134 microns, 135 microns, 136 microns, 137 microns, 138 microns, 139 microns, 140 microns, 141 microns
  • bags 30 may be formed from a single layer of material or from a multi-layered composite material (e.g., 3 layers, 4 layers, 5 layers, 7 layers or more).
  • FIG. 3A illustrates an exemplary three layer material 60 wherein the first layer 62 a is nylon, the middle layer 62 b is aluminum, and the third layer 62 c is polystyrene.
  • various polymeric materials may be utilized for the first and third layers 62 a, 62 c.
  • Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to multi-layered composites utilizing only nylon and polystyrene.
  • embodiments of the present invention are not limited to multi-layered composites utilizing an aluminum layer. Other layers of metallic, non transparent material may be utilized in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.
  • Bags 30 according to embodiments of the present invention do not require a metallic material.
  • an internal bag 30 may be formed from an opaque or semi-transparent material, or may be formed from a multi-layered composite having at least one layer being an opaque or semi-transparent material.
  • the layers 62 a, 62 b, 62 c of bag 30 in FIG. 3A can be formed from polymeric material with at least one of the layers being opaque or semi-transparent.
  • one of the layers can be formed from opaque or semi-transparent material or can have a color (e.g., blue, black, etc.) that renders the layer opaque or semi-transparent.
  • FIG. 3B illustrates an exemplary seven layer material 60 for an internal bag 30 having layers 62 a - 62 g.
  • Each of the layers i.e., 62 a, 62 b, 62 c , 62 d, 62 e, 62 f, 62 g
  • at least one of the layers is formed from an opaque or semi-transparent material.
  • at least one of the layers has a color that renders the layer opaque or semi-transparent.
  • the thickness of individual layers in a multi-layer composite may be different depending on the type of material used.
  • the nylon layer 62 a may have a thickness of about 15 microns
  • the aluminum layer 62 b may have a thickness of about 25 microns
  • the polystyrene layer 62 c may have a thickness of about 60 microns.
  • a packing container 20 is positioned beneath a tobacco packing press 70 for receiving a quantity of tightly packed tobacco 80 .
  • the packing container 20 is moved along a conveyor to a closing station (not shown) and the next packing container 20 is moved into position beneath the tobacco packing press 70 .
  • the closing station the bag opening 32 is closed and air is extracted from within the bag 30 , as described above.
  • the tobacco 80 may be subjected to a blanket of inert gas prior to evacuating the air therefrom.
  • the inert gas may help kill any pests or organisms (e.g., insects, bacteria, fungi, etc.) present in the tobacco 80 and may help reduce the oxygen concentration in any remaining air within the bag 30 after a sub-atmospheric pressure has been induced therewithin.
  • pests or organisms e.g., insects, bacteria, fungi, etc.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a closed bag 30 from a packing container 20 according to some embodiments of the present invention and having a quantity of tightly packed tobacco 80 disposed therewithin.
  • the carton 10 is not illustrated so that the amount of packing of the tobacco within the bag 30 can be observed.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates the closed bag 30 of FIG. 5 positioned within an open carton 10 .
  • FIGS. 9A-9B a packing container 20 , according to some embodiments of the present invention, is illustrated.
  • the illustrated bag 30 within the carton 10 is formed from a multi-layer composite having an aluminum layer 64 .
  • the aluminum layer completely surrounds the tobacco contents and prohibits any light from reaching the tobacco.
  • the aluminum layer also facilitates detection of the bag 30 within a closed and sealed carton 10 , for example, via metal detection equipment, etc.
  • FIG. 9A illustrates the bag 30 prior to having air extracted from the bag 30 .
  • FIG. 9B illustrates the bag 30 of FIG. 9A after air has been extracted from the bag 30 such that the bag 30 has a sub-atmospheric pressure therein.
  • an opaque or semi-transparent material other than aluminum may be utilized.
  • a polymeric layer having a color that inhibits light from passing therethrough may be utilized.
  • an insertion frame 90 may be utilized to facilitate insertion of flexible, non-porous bags 30 within cartons 10 , according to some embodiments of the present invention.
  • the insertion frame 90 allows a bag that is sized to conform with the interior of a carton 10 (thereby reducing extra, unneeded bag material) to be easily and quickly installed within a carton 10 .
  • a bag 30 is initially inserted over the insertion frame 90 .
  • the frame 90 and bag 30 assembly is then rotated and inserted within a carton 10 , as illustrated in FIG. 15 , with the open end of the bag 30 facing outwardly (e.g., upwardly).
  • the frame 90 is then removed from the bag ( FIG. 16 ) prior to tobacco being received within the bag 30 .
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a plurality of packing containers 20 , each of which contains a flexible, non-porous bag 30 with a quantity of tightly packed tobacco therewithin, according to embodiments of the present invention.
  • the packing containers 20 are in a stacked configuration.
  • the stacked configuration may be a stored configuration.
  • the stacked configuration may also be a preliminary step to placing the packing containers 20 in a shipping container.
  • tobacco may be packed, shipped, and/or stored within standalone flexible, non-porous bags 130 , as illustrated in FIGS. 11-13 , without the use of an external carton 10 or other container.
  • Bags 130 of various shapes and configurations may be utilized.
  • such bags 130 may be formed from material having a wall thickness greater than 200 microns in order to withstand potential damage from handling and shipping.
  • standalone bags 130 are capable of supporting at least between about 15 kilograms and about 240 kilograms of tobacco.
  • Standalone bags 130 may be formed from an opaque or semi-transparent material, or may be formed from a multi-layered composite material, wherein at least one of the layers is an opaque or semi-transparent material, as described above.
  • the illustrated standalone non-porous bag 130 includes a closeable opening 32 through which the bag 130 receives a quantity of tightly packed tobacco, as described above.
  • the closeable opening 32 is large enough to allow tobacco packing press equipment to be inserted within a bag 130 to supply a quantity of tobacco.
  • the bag opening 32 is a re-sealable opening that includes a male zipper portion 34 and a corresponding female zipper portion 36 that is configured to matingly engage with the male zipper portion 34 , as described above.
  • a slide mechanism e.g., 38 , FIG.
  • the illustrated standalone bag 130 also includes a valve 40 that is utilized for extracting air from the bag 30 after receiving tobacco therein and after the bag opening 32 is sealed closed, as described above.
  • the valve 40 may also be utilized to purge the bag 130 , when closed, with an inert gas (e.g., nitrogen, etc.) prior to extracting air from the bag 130 .
  • a standalone bag 130 may include a rigid member 140 disposed within the bag 130 that receives the tobacco thereon.
  • Rigid member 140 can facilitate stacking ( FIG. 13 ) of multiple standalone bags 130 by providing a generally flat surface at the bottom of each standalone bag 130 .
  • rigid member 140 can provide structural support for a bag 130 .
  • Rigid member 140 can have various shapes and configurations, and is not limited to the illustrated configuration.
  • Flexible non-porous bags 30 , 130 , 330 can be re-used and/or recycled. As such, embodiments of the present invention are environmentally friendly and may reduce costs associated with disposal.
  • the illustrated packing container 220 is a sealable carton that does not require the use of an internal bag (e.g., bag 30 , FIG. 5 ).
  • the container 220 includes a closeable opening 222 through which the container 220 receives a quantity of tightly packed tobacco.
  • the container 220 includes opposing upper wall members 224 , 226 that are configured to fold together, as illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 20 .
  • the edge portions 224 a, 226 a of respective wall members 224 , 226 are configured to be sealed together such that the interior of the container 220 is airtight and can maintain a vacuum therein.
  • the edge portions 224 a, 226 a can be sealed together in a fashion similar to that of an aseptic package, such as a milk carton, and such that, once opened after sealing, cannot be resealed together.
  • the edge portions 224 a, 226 a may be heat sealed together or may be adhesively sealed together.
  • the edge portions 24 a, 226 a can have a configuration that allows then to be resealable to facilitate multiple openings and closings thereof.
  • the packing container 220 is configured to have air extracted therefrom and to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein of, for example, between about 0.10 bar to about 0.70 bar.
  • the illustrated packing container 220 also includes a valve 40 , as described above, that is utilized for extracting air from the packing container 220 after receiving tobacco therein and after the packing container 220 is sealed closed.
  • the valve 40 may be a two-way valve to allow the packing container 220 to be purged with an inert gas (e.g., nitrogen, etc.) prior to extracting air from the packing container 220 .
  • an inert gas e.g., nitrogen, etc.
  • embodiments of the present invention are not limited to a particular type of valve 40 .
  • valve 40 can be a one-way valve in some embodiments and a two-way valve in other embodiments.
  • a packing container 20 may include a colorimetric detector 100 within an internal bag 30 that is visible upon opening the carton 10 .
  • the colorimetric detector 100 can be viewed through the bag 30 , as illustrated in FIG. 19 .
  • a transparent window may be provided in the bag 30 so as to view a colorimetric detector 100 within the bag 30 .
  • a colorimetric detector 100 includes one or more chemical reagents thereon (e.g., arranged within a display) that, when exposed to in particular environmental conditions and/or chemical elements, visually change color.
  • a chemical reagent may be configured to change color when moisture level (e.g., humidity level) within a sealed bag 30 falls below (or rises above) a predetermined level.
  • Another chemical reagent may be configured to change color when oxygen levels within a sealed bag 30 increase (e.g., indicative of a leak).
  • Chemical reagents may be utilized to measure changes (increases or decreases) in other environmental conditions within a sealed bag 30 including, but not limited to, nitrogen level, carbon-dioxide level, temperature etc.
  • Another chemical reagent may be configured to change color when a level of a chemical element associated with the tobacco within a sealed bag 30 changes. For example, changes in nitrosamine levels (increases or decreases) within the tobacco may be detected and thereby indicated by a change in reagent color. Changes in the level (increases or decreases) of other tobacco chemicals, such as tobacco leaf sugars and oils may also be detected. Chemical reagents and their use with colorimetric detection are well known and need not be described further herein.
  • a colorimetric detector 100 may be formed of virtually any material sufficient to retain one or more reagents.
  • a colorimetric detector 100 may be a piece of paper or other substrate containing one or more reagents.
  • a colorimetric detector 100 can have various shapes and sizes, without limitation. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the illustrated shape or size of the colorimetric detector 100 of FIG. 19 .
  • various indicia e.g., one or more numerical scales, etc.
  • a humidity level scale may be provided to indicate moisture levels (e.g., 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, etc.). Other similar scales may be provided for other conditions/elements.
  • colorimetric detectors may be utilized with the various embodiments of the present invention described herein.
  • colorimetric detectors may be utilized to monitor changes in more than one environmental condition and/or changes in more than one chemical element.
  • a sealable packing container 220 includes a transparent window 230 through which a colorimetric detector 100 within the sealed packing container 220 can be viewed, according to some embodiments of the present invention. As such, the conditions within the sealed packing container 220 can be viewed from the outside without requiring the sealed container 220 to be opened.
  • the colorimetric detector 100 can be utilized to detect changes in moisture level, oxygen level, nitrogen level, carbon-dioxide level, temperature, as well as changes in various tobacco leaf chemicals such as nitrosamines, oils and sugars.
  • tobacco may be packed, shipped, and/or stored within standalone flexible, non-porous bags 330 having a tubular shape, as illustrated in FIGS. 21-26 .
  • bags 330 may be formed from material having a wall thickness greater than 200 microns in order to withstand potential damage from handling and shipping.
  • standalone bags 330 are capable of supporting at least between about 15 kilograms and about 240 kilograms of tobacco.
  • Standalone bags 330 may be formed from an opaque or semi-transparent material, or may be formed from a multi-layered composite material, wherein at least one of the layers is an opaque or semi-transparent material, as described above.
  • the standalone non-porous bags 330 are produced by providing an elongated tube 300 having an open first end 300 a and an opposite closed end 300 b ( FIGS. 21-23 ).
  • the elongated tube 300 is provided with a plurality of valves 40 at predetermined intervals on the elongated tube 300 .
  • a valve 40 may be provided every three feet, four feet, or some other constant dimension.
  • a predetermined amount of tobacco is fed into the elongated tube 300 and the tube 300 is cut in multiple locations, as illustrated in FIG. 23 , to produce a plurality of separate tube-shaped bags 330 ( FIG. 24 ).
  • the open ends of the tube-shaped bags 330 are then sealed (e.g., heat sealed). Air is then extracted from each bag 330 via a respective valve 40 to create a sub-atmospheric pressure therein, as described above.
  • the tube-shaped bags 330 can be packed within cartons or may be stacked by themselves.
  • Tubular shaped bags 330 may be formed and packed with tobacco in various ways. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the operations illustrated in FIGS. 21-25 .
  • a colorimetric detector may be utilized with a standalone non-porous bags 330 , as described above, to monitor one or more conditions within the sealed bag 330 .
  • a colorimetric detector 100 can be utilized to detect changes in moisture level, oxygen level, nitrogen level, carbon-dioxide level, temperature, as well as changes in various tobacco leaf chemicals such as nitrosamines, oils and sugars.
  • a flexible, non-porous bag 430 according to other embodiments of the present invention is illustrated.
  • the bag 430 is configured to enclose multiple containers 10 (e.g., cartons, such as C48, A48 cartons, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, six (6) cartons 10 are enclosed in the bag 430 . However, any number of containers 10 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more) may be included within a bag 430 . Embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the illustrated six (6) containers 10 .
  • the illustrated bag 430 includes a closeable opening 32 and is configured to have air extracted therefrom and to maintain a sub-atmospheric pressure therein of, for example, between about 0.10 bar to about 0.80 bar.
  • FIG. 27A illustrates the flexible, non-porous bag 430 enclosing multiple cartons 10 of tobacco, with the opening 32 closed, and prior to extracting air from the bag 430 .
  • FIG. 27B illustrates the flexible, non-porous bag 430 of FIG. 27A after air has been extracted therefrom.
  • the bag opening 32 is a re-sealable opening including a male zipper portion and a corresponding female zipper portion that is configured to matingly engage with the male zipper portion, such as described above.
  • the flexible, non-porous bag 430 may be formed from a multi-layered composite material with at least one of the layers being an aluminum layer.
  • the multi-layered composite includes an aluminum layer sandwiched between first and second polymeric layers.
  • the bag 430 is formed from a multi-layered composite having a polystyrene inner layer, an aluminum middle layer, and a nylon outer layer.
  • the bag 430 is formed from a semi-transparent or opaque material, or is formed from a multi-layered composite having at least one layer being a semi-transparent or opaque material.
  • the flexible, non-porous bag 430 may have a wall thickness of at least about 100 microns, and may have a wall thickness between about 100 microns and about 200 microns.
  • the bag includes a valve 40 that is utilized for extracting air therefrom.
  • the valve 40 may also be utilized to purge the bag, when closed, for example with an inert gas prior to extracting air from the bag 430 .
  • a colorimetric detector may be utilized with a non-porous bags 430 , as described above, to monitor one or more conditions within the sealed bag 430 .
  • a colorimetric detector 100 can be utilized to detect changes in moisture level, oxygen level, nitrogen level, carbon-dioxide level, temperature, as well as changes in various tobacco leaf chemicals such as nitrosamines, oils and sugars.
  • the various bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 (as well as carton 220 ) described above can be formed from material having a color that facilitates identification of the type of tobacco therewithin. Color may also be utilized to indicate destination of the tobacco, origin of the tobacco, ownership of the tobacco, etc.
  • Packing containers 20 ( FIGS. 4-10 ), 130 ( FIGS. 11-13 ), 220 ( FIGS. 17-18 ), 330 ( FIGS. 21-26 ), 430 ( FIGS. 27A-27B ) according to embodiments of the present invention have numerous advantages over conventional tobacco shipping/storage cartons. For example, maintaining tobacco under vacuum helps retain the freshness and flavor of the tobacco up to 3 to 5 times longer than in conventional shipping/storage containers. Moreover, maintaining tobacco under vacuum helps prevent loss in moisture content of the tobacco (e.g., preserve the level of moisture of the tobacco at the time of packing) and also prevents mold formation. Because moisture content is maintained, the tobacco leaves retain their color (maintain their “color line”) and shape and are less likely to be susceptible to breakage. Thus, sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 according to embodiments of the present invention can preserve the particle size distribution (PSD) of the packed tobacco, thereby maintaining the quality and value of the tobacco.
  • PSD particle size distribution
  • a tobacco packed with a color line of “lemon” will retain its “lemon” color line and be “lemon” colored when the tobacco reaches its final destination and is opened for further processing.
  • a tobacco packed with a color line of, for example, “light orange,” “orange,” or “mahogany” will retain the respective color line throughout transport and storage in the sealed internal bags 30 according to embodiments of the present invention as compared to tobacco that is packed in a conventional manner.
  • Sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 (and sealed cartons 220 ) also protect tobacco against environmental exposure, including changes of weather conditions (e.g., changes in temperature, changes in humidity, etc.), which can harm tobacco quality.
  • Sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 (and sealed cartons 220 ) also protect tobacco against liquids and odors.
  • sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 (and sealed cartons 220 ) protect tobacco against sub-zero temperatures that may be encountered in some storage and/or transportation environments.
  • Another potential benefit resulting from the use of the sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and sealed cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention may be the reduction of tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs).
  • TSNAs tobacco-specific nitrosamines
  • the level of TSNAs in the tobacco leaves enclosed in the sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 according to embodiments of the present invention may be reduced as compared with tobacco leaves that are not so enclosed.
  • the sub-atmospheric pressure within a bag 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 (or carton 220 ) lowers the amount of oxygen within the bag which will kill any insects or other pests (e.g., tobacco beetles, tobacco moths, microorganisms, etc.) that may be present in the tobacco.
  • insects or other pests e.g., tobacco beetles, tobacco moths, microorganisms, etc.
  • the non-porous nature of the bag material also prevents insects and other pests from finding (i.e., smelling) tobacco therewithin.
  • the bag material of a bag 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 (and the material of a carton 220 ) according to embodiments of the present invention provides not only a barrier to insect/pest penetration but also reduces the escape of tobacco odors that attract insects/pests. Because there is reduced risk of insect infestation, there is less need for fumigation of tobacco prior to or during packing, which can result in cost savings.
  • a reduced need for fumigation may result from the use of sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention may also provide the benefit of reducing the level of resistance among the insects and pests that typically infest tobacco.
  • a further advantage resulting from the use of the sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention is the maintenance of the leaf chemistry.
  • the lower oxygen concentration reduces oxidation of tobacco, thereby preserving tobacco flavors and oils. Therefore, in some embodiments, the level of volatile oil(s) present in the tobacco at the time of packing is preserved.
  • the level of volatile oil(s) in tobacco packed using the sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention is about 100% to about 50% retained as compared to the level of retention of volatile oil(s) in the same tobacco but which has been packed in a conventional manner.
  • the level of volatile oil(s) in tobacco packed in the sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention is retained at about 100%, 99%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 95%, 94%, 93%, 92%, 91%, 90%, 89%, 88%, 87%, 86%, 85%, 84%, 83%, 82%, 81%, 80%,79%, 78%, 77%, 76%, 75%, 74%, 73%, 72%, 71%, 70%, 69%, 68%, 67%, 66%, 65%, 64%, 63%, 62%, 61%, 60%,59%, 58%, 57%, 56%, 55%, 54%, 53%, 52%, 51%, 50%, or any range therein, or any combination thereof, as compared to the level of retention of volatile oil(s) in the same tobacco but which has been packed in a conventional manner.
  • the level of sugars (e.g., reducing sugars) present in the tobacco at the time of packing can also be maintained or preserved through the use of the sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention.
  • sugars present in tobacco leaf include sucrose, fructose, glucose, galactose, arabinose, maltose, deoxyribose, mannose, pentose, raffinose, planteose, rhamnose, ribose, xylose, and the like.
  • the level of sugars in tobacco packed in the sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention is about 100% to about 50% as compared to the level of sugars in the same tobacco that has been packed in a conventional manner.
  • the level of sugars in tobacco packed in the sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 is about 100%, 99%, 98%, 97%, 96%, 95%, 94%, 93%, 92%, 91%, 90%, 89%, 88%, 87%, 86%, 85%, 84%, 83%, 82%, 81%, 80%,79%, 78%, 77%, 76%, 75%, 74%, 73%, 72%, 71%, 70%, 69%, 68%, 67%, 66%, 65%, 64%, 63%, 62%, 61%, 60%,59%, 58%, 57%, 56%, 55%, 54%, 53%, 52%, 51%, 50%, or any range therein, or any combination thereof, as compared to the level of sugars in the same tobacco but which has been packed in a conventional manner.
  • tobacco having total reducing sugars of about 20% when packed in sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention, would have total reducing sugars of about 20% when unpacked (i.e., 100% retention) as compared to the level of sugars in the same tobacco but which has been packed in a conventional manner.
  • tobacco having total reducing sugars of 20% when packed in sealed bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention, would have total reducing sugars of about 20% to about 10% when unpacked (i.e., about 100% to about 50% retention).
  • the sub-atmospheric pressure within bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 and cartons 220 according to embodiments of the present invention also increases, for example, by 20% to 40%, the amount of tobacco that can be packed within a container.
  • packing containers 20 , 220 and bags 30 , 130 , 330 , 430 according to embodiments of the present invention can save costs associated with storage and containers.
  • packing containers, according to embodiments of the present invention provide an opportunity to ship more tobacco by weight per carton (e.g., per C48 carton), thereby reducing overall freight costs.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Biochemistry (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Immunology (AREA)
  • Pathology (AREA)
  • Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
  • Molecular Biology (AREA)
  • Biophysics (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)
  • Bag Frames (AREA)
US13/441,373 2011-10-20 2012-04-06 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco Abandoned US20130098785A1 (en)

Priority Applications (9)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US13/441,373 US20130098785A1 (en) 2011-10-20 2012-04-06 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco
CN201280063319.8A CN104159824B (zh) 2011-10-20 2012-04-09 用于烟草的真空包装方法和装置
ES12841786.2T ES2651241T3 (es) 2011-10-20 2012-04-09 Métodos y aparatos de empaquetado en vacío para tabaco
EP12841786.2A EP2768737B1 (en) 2011-10-20 2012-04-09 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco
BR112014009329-6A BR112014009329B1 (pt) 2011-10-20 2012-04-09 Método para embalamento de tabaco, e recipiente de embalagem para tabaco
PL12841786T PL2768737T3 (pl) 2011-10-20 2012-04-09 Sposoby i urządzenie do próżniowego pakowania tytoniu
PCT/US2012/032718 WO2013058823A2 (en) 2011-10-20 2012-04-09 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco
US13/758,399 US10065752B2 (en) 2011-10-20 2013-02-04 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco
HK15101270.2A HK1200784A1 (zh) 2011-10-20 2015-02-05 用於烟草的真空包裝方法和裝置

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201161549549P 2011-10-20 2011-10-20
US13/441,373 US20130098785A1 (en) 2011-10-20 2012-04-06 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/758,399 Division US10065752B2 (en) 2011-10-20 2013-02-04 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20130098785A1 true US20130098785A1 (en) 2013-04-25

Family

ID=48135078

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/441,373 Abandoned US20130098785A1 (en) 2011-10-20 2012-04-06 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco
US13/758,399 Expired - Fee Related US10065752B2 (en) 2011-10-20 2013-02-04 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US13/758,399 Expired - Fee Related US10065752B2 (en) 2011-10-20 2013-02-04 Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco

Country Status (8)

Country Link
US (2) US20130098785A1 (zh)
EP (1) EP2768737B1 (zh)
CN (1) CN104159824B (zh)
BR (1) BR112014009329B1 (zh)
ES (1) ES2651241T3 (zh)
HK (1) HK1200784A1 (zh)
PL (1) PL2768737T3 (zh)
WO (1) WO2013058823A2 (zh)

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20130239523A1 (en) * 2011-02-07 2013-09-19 Erik D. Scudder Systems and methods for packaging and transporting bulk materials
EP2808268A1 (en) * 2013-05-30 2014-12-03 Carlos Aguilar Monforte Equipment to treat bulk products, flexible container or bag for bulk products and process for treating bulk products by such equipment
US20150375914A1 (en) * 2009-06-18 2015-12-31 Sartorius Stedim Fmt Sas Pouch with incorporated loss of integrity indicator, method for making such a bag, and method for using same
WO2016178558A1 (en) * 2015-05-01 2016-11-10 Vqm Packaging B.V. Valve for a flexible packaging with an aerating and/or venting opening and method for aerating and/or venting a flexible packaging
US9567157B2 (en) 2011-02-07 2017-02-14 Intermodal Sciences, Llc Systems and methods for packaging and transporting bulk materials
US20170233122A1 (en) * 2014-08-07 2017-08-17 Plank Road Technologies, Llc System and method for preventing and controlling combustion and flammability, or oxidation of materials during storage or transport
US20180127127A1 (en) * 2015-05-16 2018-05-10 Oxy-Low Systems Europe Bv A method and apparatus for packaging of one or more boxes filled with tobacco in a plastic bag
CN108967293A (zh) * 2018-07-20 2018-12-11 佛山市高明曦逻科技有限公司 能够在水体作业的自动投料装置
US10815051B2 (en) 2015-06-05 2020-10-27 Intermodal Sciences, Llc Container for transport of bulk liquids using dry trailers
WO2021097059A1 (en) * 2019-11-12 2021-05-20 Christopher Thomas Packaging system for storing agricultural biomass
WO2022139589A1 (en) * 2020-12-22 2022-06-30 Smartfoodpack As Packaging device

Families Citing this family (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US9968130B2 (en) * 2014-10-16 2018-05-15 R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Package for a tobacco-containing material with a valve assembly and related packaging method
CN105326187A (zh) * 2015-11-07 2016-02-17 中山市和鑫橡塑电子有限公司 一种真空包
US10836521B2 (en) * 2016-01-20 2020-11-17 Gea Food Solutions Weert B.V. Flow wrapper with leakage-control of the resulting packages
CN106617274A (zh) * 2016-10-28 2017-05-10 广东中烟工业有限责任公司 一种提升再造烟叶劲头的储存方法
CN106562463A (zh) * 2016-10-28 2017-04-19 广东中烟工业有限责任公司 基于储存条件的稳定再造烟叶水溶性糖含量的方法
CN106562470A (zh) * 2016-10-28 2017-04-19 广东中烟工业有限责任公司 一种提升再造烟叶致香成分含量的储存方法
CN106539123A (zh) * 2016-10-28 2017-03-29 广东中烟工业有限责任公司 基于储存条件稳定提升再造烟叶整体品质的方法
CN106542206A (zh) * 2016-10-28 2017-03-29 广东中烟工业有限责任公司 一种降低再造烟叶水分波动的储存方法
CN106333378A (zh) * 2016-10-28 2017-01-18 广东中烟工业有限责任公司 基于储存条件的稳定再造烟叶总植物碱含量的方法
CN106562468A (zh) * 2016-10-28 2017-04-19 广东中烟工业有限责任公司 基于储存条件的稳定再造烟叶总氮含量的方法
GB201701073D0 (en) * 2017-01-23 2017-03-08 British American Tobacco Investments Ltd Inner frame blank for a pack of tobacco industry products
CA3028781A1 (en) * 2018-01-08 2019-07-08 Gumpro Drilling Fluids Pvt. Ltd. Apparatus and method for vacuum packaging solid drilling fluid additives
CN108451006B (zh) * 2018-01-26 2021-03-16 云南中烟工业有限责任公司 一种用于白肋烟的复合糖及其制备和使用方法
DE102018110227A1 (de) 2018-04-27 2019-10-31 Multivac Sepp Haggenmüller Se & Co. Kg Verpackungsmaschine zum Verpacken von Produkten in Kunststoffverpackungen
CN111169792B (zh) * 2019-12-25 2022-02-15 山东泰安烟草有限公司 基于烟草袋装置的周转方法和烟草袋装置

Citations (15)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2071300A (en) * 1936-03-10 1937-02-16 Susan G Gammeter Method of preserving perishable food products
US2364012A (en) * 1941-05-17 1944-11-28 Container Corp Container
US3641734A (en) * 1970-05-15 1972-02-15 Francis B Fishburne Apparatus for packing loose compressible material in rectangular containers
US3834299A (en) * 1973-03-23 1974-09-10 Amana Refrigeration Inc Trash compactor with hold-down means for trash container and liner
US4457125A (en) * 1983-04-22 1984-07-03 Fishburne Francis B Press for packing compressible material having an air release sleeve
US5007233A (en) * 1989-08-31 1991-04-16 Union Camp Corporation Multiwall bag and method of packaging utilizing multiwall bags
US5369261A (en) * 1992-02-12 1994-11-29 Shamir; Harry Multi-color information encoding system
US5887409A (en) * 1994-06-20 1999-03-30 Van Leer South Africa (Proprietary) Limited Process for vacuum packaging of materials
US20050284775A1 (en) * 2003-02-14 2005-12-29 Mclaughlin Michael R Packages, packaging systems, methods for packaging, and apparatuses for packaging
US7325382B2 (en) * 2005-06-01 2008-02-05 R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Method and apparatus for loading finished cigarettes into package
US20080307755A1 (en) * 2004-10-01 2008-12-18 Stelliferi & Itavex S.P.A. Process for Good Packaging, Namely Food Stuffs, Packagings, and Kits for Their Realization
US20100083615A1 (en) * 2006-04-26 2010-04-08 Volker Till Method and device for printing images and/or text on packaging material and then forming packages for containing liquid beverage or other materials out of the printed packaging material
US7739857B2 (en) * 2003-02-14 2010-06-22 Eastman Chemical Company Packages, packaging systems, methods for packaging and apparatus for packaging
US20110197549A1 (en) * 2010-02-15 2011-08-18 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Method and apparatus for compressing and holding in compression woven fabric articles
US20110232232A1 (en) * 2010-03-26 2011-09-29 Philip Morris Usa Inc. Apparatus for use in the formation of a tobacco pouch product

Family Cites Families (21)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CA1177278A (en) * 1981-07-10 1984-11-06 Shrik K. Gandhi Compressed breathing air sampling device
US5295297B1 (en) * 1986-11-25 1996-11-26 Hitachi Ltd Method of producing semiconductor memory
US4934385A (en) * 1987-07-11 1990-06-19 Korber Ag Method of and apparatus for treating uncured tobacco
CA1340759C (en) * 1988-07-01 1999-09-21 James P. Albarella Isobenzothiazolone chromogenic thiol indicators and their derivatives
US6298858B1 (en) * 1998-11-18 2001-10-09 R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Tobacco flavoring components of enhanced aromatic content and method of providing same
US6428748B1 (en) * 2001-01-31 2002-08-06 Grouptek, Inc. Apparatus and method of monitoring an analyte
US6601705B2 (en) * 2001-12-07 2003-08-05 The Procter & Gamble Company Package containing a window and performance characteristic indicator
CN1748142A (zh) * 2003-02-07 2006-03-15 保德科技股份有限公司 物品的质量管理方法及其所使用的氧检测剂
US20100276325A1 (en) * 2003-03-20 2010-11-04 Kazuaki Sakurai Oxygen indicator and package
US20050043515A1 (en) * 2003-05-29 2005-02-24 Brown Michael Craig Tobacco-specific nitrosamine detection assays and reagents
US20050155891A1 (en) * 2004-01-16 2005-07-21 Shu-Ling Chen Combined storage apparatus
US20070172910A1 (en) * 2006-01-24 2007-07-26 Nolen Ann L Food freshness indicator and food storage systems same
MX2008015407A (es) * 2006-06-29 2008-12-18 Crown Packaging Technology Inc Paquete de indicador.
US7885521B2 (en) * 2007-03-01 2011-02-08 Restaurant Technology, Inc. Automated fryer filtration device and method
US7967166B2 (en) * 2007-03-26 2011-06-28 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Reclosable storage bag attached to container by removable retainer ring
GB0712844D0 (en) * 2007-07-02 2007-08-08 Univ Leuven Kath Colorimetric assay for the visual detection of primary and secondary amines
US8707766B2 (en) * 2010-04-21 2014-04-29 The Boeing Company Leak detection in vacuum bags
DE102007053854A1 (de) * 2007-11-09 2009-05-14 Focke & Co.(Gmbh & Co. Kg) Verfahren und Vorrichtung zum Füllen und Verschließen von Tabakbeuteln
US8512975B2 (en) * 2008-07-24 2013-08-20 Biomerieux, Inc. Method for detection and characterization of a microorganism in a sample using time dependent spectroscopic measurements
CN101769830A (zh) * 2008-12-30 2010-07-07 扬州市天宝科技有限公司 一种烟包取样机
US20120107191A1 (en) * 2010-10-12 2012-05-03 Strahle James R Food quality indicator

Patent Citations (17)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2071300A (en) * 1936-03-10 1937-02-16 Susan G Gammeter Method of preserving perishable food products
US2364012A (en) * 1941-05-17 1944-11-28 Container Corp Container
US3641734A (en) * 1970-05-15 1972-02-15 Francis B Fishburne Apparatus for packing loose compressible material in rectangular containers
US3834299A (en) * 1973-03-23 1974-09-10 Amana Refrigeration Inc Trash compactor with hold-down means for trash container and liner
US4457125A (en) * 1983-04-22 1984-07-03 Fishburne Francis B Press for packing compressible material having an air release sleeve
US5007233A (en) * 1989-08-31 1991-04-16 Union Camp Corporation Multiwall bag and method of packaging utilizing multiwall bags
US5369261A (en) * 1992-02-12 1994-11-29 Shamir; Harry Multi-color information encoding system
US5887409A (en) * 1994-06-20 1999-03-30 Van Leer South Africa (Proprietary) Limited Process for vacuum packaging of materials
US20050284775A1 (en) * 2003-02-14 2005-12-29 Mclaughlin Michael R Packages, packaging systems, methods for packaging, and apparatuses for packaging
US7739857B2 (en) * 2003-02-14 2010-06-22 Eastman Chemical Company Packages, packaging systems, methods for packaging and apparatus for packaging
US7958696B2 (en) * 2003-02-14 2011-06-14 Eastman Chemical Company Packages, packaging systems, methods for packaging and apparatus for packaging
US20110203228A1 (en) * 2003-02-14 2011-08-25 Eastman Chemical Company Packages, packaging systems, methods for packaging and apparatus for packaging
US20080307755A1 (en) * 2004-10-01 2008-12-18 Stelliferi & Itavex S.P.A. Process for Good Packaging, Namely Food Stuffs, Packagings, and Kits for Their Realization
US7325382B2 (en) * 2005-06-01 2008-02-05 R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company Method and apparatus for loading finished cigarettes into package
US20100083615A1 (en) * 2006-04-26 2010-04-08 Volker Till Method and device for printing images and/or text on packaging material and then forming packages for containing liquid beverage or other materials out of the printed packaging material
US20110197549A1 (en) * 2010-02-15 2011-08-18 Illinois Tool Works Inc. Method and apparatus for compressing and holding in compression woven fabric articles
US20110232232A1 (en) * 2010-03-26 2011-09-29 Philip Morris Usa Inc. Apparatus for use in the formation of a tobacco pouch product

Cited By (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20150375914A1 (en) * 2009-06-18 2015-12-31 Sartorius Stedim Fmt Sas Pouch with incorporated loss of integrity indicator, method for making such a bag, and method for using same
US10112764B2 (en) * 2009-06-18 2018-10-30 Sartorius Stedim Fmt Sas Pouch with incorporated loss of integrity indicator, method for making such a bag, and method for using same
US9567157B2 (en) 2011-02-07 2017-02-14 Intermodal Sciences, Llc Systems and methods for packaging and transporting bulk materials
US20130239523A1 (en) * 2011-02-07 2013-09-19 Erik D. Scudder Systems and methods for packaging and transporting bulk materials
EP2808268A1 (en) * 2013-05-30 2014-12-03 Carlos Aguilar Monforte Equipment to treat bulk products, flexible container or bag for bulk products and process for treating bulk products by such equipment
US20170233122A1 (en) * 2014-08-07 2017-08-17 Plank Road Technologies, Llc System and method for preventing and controlling combustion and flammability, or oxidation of materials during storage or transport
US11208251B2 (en) 2015-05-01 2021-12-28 Vqm Packaging B.V. Valve for a flexible packaging with an aerating and/or venting opening and method for aerating and/or venting a flexible packaging
WO2016178558A1 (en) * 2015-05-01 2016-11-10 Vqm Packaging B.V. Valve for a flexible packaging with an aerating and/or venting opening and method for aerating and/or venting a flexible packaging
US20180127127A1 (en) * 2015-05-16 2018-05-10 Oxy-Low Systems Europe Bv A method and apparatus for packaging of one or more boxes filled with tobacco in a plastic bag
US11186397B2 (en) * 2015-05-16 2021-11-30 Oxy-Low Systems Europe Bv Method and apparatus for packaging of one or more boxes filled with tobacco in a plastic bag
US10815051B2 (en) 2015-06-05 2020-10-27 Intermodal Sciences, Llc Container for transport of bulk liquids using dry trailers
CN108967293A (zh) * 2018-07-20 2018-12-11 佛山市高明曦逻科技有限公司 能够在水体作业的自动投料装置
WO2021097059A1 (en) * 2019-11-12 2021-05-20 Christopher Thomas Packaging system for storing agricultural biomass
WO2022139589A1 (en) * 2020-12-22 2022-06-30 Smartfoodpack As Packaging device

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2768737B1 (en) 2017-09-13
WO2013058823A3 (en) 2013-10-24
CN104159824A (zh) 2014-11-19
CN104159824B (zh) 2016-01-20
BR112014009329A2 (pt) 2017-04-11
EP2768737A2 (en) 2014-08-27
EP2768737A4 (en) 2015-10-28
US20130227915A1 (en) 2013-09-05
ES2651241T3 (es) 2018-01-25
US10065752B2 (en) 2018-09-04
WO2013058823A2 (en) 2013-04-25
BR112014009329B1 (pt) 2020-09-29
PL2768737T3 (pl) 2018-02-28
HK1200784A1 (zh) 2015-08-14

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US10065752B2 (en) Vacuum packing methods and apparatus for tobacco
US6023915A (en) Modified atmosphere packaging method
US7739857B2 (en) Packages, packaging systems, methods for packaging and apparatus for packaging
KR100310473B1 (ko) 곡물살충저장방법및곡물저장용기
CN105593356B (zh) 用于在酒精饮料的木桶陈化过程中减少乙醇损失同时形成希望的器官感觉的方法
US20060198861A1 (en) Flexible ultra-low permeability transport system and method
US20160304231A1 (en) Methods of manufacturing, compressing, rolling, folding and packaging mattresses
GB2513164A (en) Container
WO2002044058A2 (en) Method and system for transporting and storing commodities
EP1497186B1 (de) Hochverdichteter filter tow ballen und verfahren zu dessen herstellung
HUE032964T2 (en) A method for packaging a finished tobacco product into a master box
US20130139474A1 (en) Sampling bag and funnel for collection of soils, muds, or other solids or liquids for subsequent analysis of headspace gases and other content
DK2699491T3 (en) Improved flat packaging of petri dishes for long-term preservation and process for making the same.
US20130270146A1 (en) Collapsible article container
US20150251843A1 (en) Packages for bedding products including mattresses and mattress toppers
EP3017869A1 (en) Dried-Blood-Spot-card shipping and storage container
US20120141637A1 (en) Multiple Compartment Coffee Packaging System
JP5395356B2 (ja) 長方形物品用の鮮度保持パック
US20040173626A1 (en) Pressure vacuum release hermetic valve for rigid container packages
US20060172044A1 (en) Method for storing and shipping fruit and container for use with said method
US20070110852A1 (en) System and method for packaging coffee or tea
Navarro et al. Use of biogenerated atmospheres of stored commodities for quality preservation and insect control, with particular reference to cocoa beans
WO2009021855A1 (en) Tobacco product container
WO1999025625A1 (en) Odour-proof package
CN107848650A (zh) 用于对未包装的消耗品进行杀菌的方法以及存储容器及其外包装件

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: ALLIANCE ONE INTERNATIONAL, INC., NORTH CAROLINA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:STEFFENS, MARCOS ANDRE;REEL/FRAME:028216/0905

Effective date: 20120413

STCB Information on status: application discontinuation

Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION