US20230399157A1 - Biodegradable Bottle For Liquids - Google Patents
Biodegradable Bottle For Liquids Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230399157A1 US20230399157A1 US18/239,173 US202318239173A US2023399157A1 US 20230399157 A1 US20230399157 A1 US 20230399157A1 US 202318239173 A US202318239173 A US 202318239173A US 2023399157 A1 US2023399157 A1 US 2023399157A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- pulp
- liquid containing
- bottle
- pulp body
- containing apparatus
- Prior art date
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- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 41
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims description 17
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims description 17
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 13
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 13
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 claims description 9
- 229920002451 polyvinyl alcohol Polymers 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000005728 strengthening Methods 0.000 claims 6
- 229920000704 biodegradable plastic Polymers 0.000 abstract description 39
- 239000013501 sustainable material Substances 0.000 abstract description 4
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 16
- 239000000123 paper Substances 0.000 description 8
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 7
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 7
- 239000003208 petroleum Substances 0.000 description 6
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 6
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 6
- 235000013361 beverage Nutrition 0.000 description 5
- 239000000835 fiber Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000004626 polylactic acid Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000003856 thermoforming Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000004372 Polyvinyl alcohol Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 description 4
- 229920000139 polyethylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 description 4
- 239000005020 polyethylene terephthalate Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 4
- 239000000565 sealant Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 description 4
- 229920001131 Pulp (paper) Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 229920000747 poly(lactic acid) Polymers 0.000 description 3
- -1 polyethylene terephthalate Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000009825 accumulation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000996 additive effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229920006025 bioresin Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012856 packing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000013055 pulp slurry Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920005989 resin Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000011347 resin Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 2
- 208000016261 weight loss Diseases 0.000 description 2
- RSWGJHLUYNHPMX-UHFFFAOYSA-N Abietic-Saeure Natural products C12CCC(C(C)C)=CC2=CCC2C1(C)CCCC2(C)C(O)=O RSWGJHLUYNHPMX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- VEXZGXHMUGYJMC-UHFFFAOYSA-M Chloride anion Chemical compound [Cl-] VEXZGXHMUGYJMC-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- 241000920471 Lucilia caesar Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- KHPCPRHQVVSZAH-HUOMCSJISA-N Rosin Natural products O(C/C=C/c1ccccc1)[C@H]1[C@H](O)[C@@H](O)[C@@H](O)[C@@H](CO)O1 KHPCPRHQVVSZAH-HUOMCSJISA-N 0.000 description 1
- DIZPMCHEQGEION-UHFFFAOYSA-H aluminium sulfate (anhydrous) Chemical compound [Al+3].[Al+3].[O-]S([O-])(=O)=O.[O-]S([O-])(=O)=O.[O-]S([O-])(=O)=O DIZPMCHEQGEION-UHFFFAOYSA-H 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011230 binding agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000004568 cement Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000021270 cold food Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 230000001010 compromised effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003599 detergent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000007598 dipping method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000839 emulsion Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000013410 fast food Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000016615 flocculation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005189 flocculation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 235000011389 fruit/vegetable juice Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 235000021268 hot food Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005304 joining Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000002372 labelling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000014759 maintenance of location Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000003921 oil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000000630 rising effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004513 sizing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000243 solution Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002904 solvent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000015481 sports and energy drink Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 238000005507 spraying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003746 surface roughness Effects 0.000 description 1
- KHPCPRHQVVSZAH-UHFFFAOYSA-N trans-cinnamyl beta-D-glucopyranoside Natural products OC1C(O)C(O)C(CO)OC1OCC=CC1=CC=CC=C1 KHPCPRHQVVSZAH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007704 transition Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D65/00—Wrappers or flexible covers; Packaging materials of special type or form
- B65D65/38—Packaging materials of special type or form
- B65D65/46—Applications of disintegrable, dissolvable or edible materials
- B65D65/466—Bio- or photodegradable packaging materials
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C45/00—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor
- B29C45/0053—Injection moulding, i.e. forcing the required volume of moulding material through a nozzle into a closed mould; Apparatus therefor combined with a final operation, e.g. shaping
-
- 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
- B65D11/00—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of plastics material
- B65D11/02—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of plastics material of curved cross-section
- B65D11/04—Bottles or similar containers with necks or like restricted apertures designed for pouring 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
- B65D11/00—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, components made wholly or mainly of plastics material
- B65D11/20—Details of walls made of plastics material
- B65D11/22—Reinforcing for strengthening parts of members
- B65D11/24—Corrugations
-
- 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
- B65D15/00—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials
- B65D15/02—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials of curved, or partially curved, cross-section, e.g. cans, drums
-
- 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
- B65D15/00—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials
- B65D15/02—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials of curved, or partially curved, cross-section, e.g. cans, drums
- B65D15/16—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials of curved, or partially curved, cross-section, e.g. cans, drums with curved, or partially curved, walls made of plastics material
- B65D15/20—Containers having bodies formed by interconnecting or uniting two or more rigid, or substantially rigid, sections made of different materials of curved, or partially curved, cross-section, e.g. cans, drums with curved, or partially curved, walls made of plastics material with end walls made of paper
-
- 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
- B65D41/00—Caps, e.g. crown caps or crown seals, i.e. members having parts arranged for engagement with the external periphery of a neck or wall defining a pouring opening or discharge aperture; Protective cap-like covers for closure members, e.g. decorative covers of metal foil or paper
- B65D41/02—Caps or cap-like covers without lines of weakness, tearing strips, tags, or like opening or removal devices
- B65D41/04—Threaded or like caps or cap-like covers secured by rotation
-
- D—TEXTILES; PAPER
- D21—PAPER-MAKING; PRODUCTION OF CELLULOSE
- D21J—FIBREBOARD; MANUFACTURE OF ARTICLES FROM CELLULOSIC FIBROUS SUSPENSIONS OR FROM PAPIER-MACHE
- D21J1/00—Fibreboard
- D21J1/04—Pressing
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
- Y02W90/00—Enabling technologies or technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to greenhouse gas [GHG] emissions mitigation
- Y02W90/10—Bio-packaging, e.g. packing containers made from renewable resources or bio-plastics
Definitions
- the present invention relates to an apparatus for storing liquids and, more specifically, to a bottle for liquids, which bottle is biodegradable and manufactured from environmentally sustainable materials.
- biodegradable bottles having potential to address problems relating to the cost, performance, and environmental impact of conventional bottles.
- bioplastics particularly polylactic acid (PLA).
- PLA polylactic acid
- U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,385,764 and 5,705,237 relate to a container incorporating a hydraulically settable structural matrix including a hydraulically settable binder such as cement for use in the storing, dispensing, and/or packing of food and beverage products.
- Disposable containers and cups are those that are particularly useful for dispensing hot and cold food and beverages in a fast food restaurant industry.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,899,793 relates to a method of manufacturing a pulp mold formed body.
- the method feeds a pulp slurry to a cavity of a paper making mold having a prescribed cavity shape to form a pulp pre-form including a main part having an opening and a separate part having a flange and connected to an edge of the opening.
- a pressing member is inserted into the pre-form; the pressing member is expanded to press the pre-form toward the paper making surface; the pre-form is removed from the paper making mold; and then the preform is cut at a joint between the separable part and the main part.
- a bottle that is biodegradable and that is made from sustainable materials.
- the bottle comprises three parts: a neck section, a shoulder section, and a body section.
- the bottle may be made for a single use.
- the bottle may be used for the storage and consumption of beverages including water, juices, sports and energy drinks.
- the bottle may be a container of a size to hold twelve ounces of liquid, or any other convenient volume of liquid.
- the bottle may include an adhesive that may be FDA approved for use in connection with human consumption.
- the bottle may be used for inedible products such as detergents, solvents, and oil-based products.
- the adhesive and the lining inside the bottle may vary as appropriate for the particular liquid contained within the bottle.
- the bottle may have the look of conventional plastic bottles that are currently on the market today.
- the bottle may have an area to be used as a label area for attaching a label.
- the bottle may have a similar neck design to existing beverage bottles, including a neck with a flange below the threads where a top is screwed on.
- the bottling environment may rely on holding and controlling the bottle by the neck flange beneath the cap.
- the bottle may rest on this flange as it is transported through the various processes of bottling which include initial cleaning/rinsing, labeling, filling and capping.
- the bottle may be inverted to drain after rinsing or clamped to prevent rotation as the cap and seal are twisted on; both are done by manipulating the flange.
- the bottle of the present invention exceeds the strength and capabilities of the latest PET(polyethylene)/PLA (poly lactic acid) bottles.
- PET(polyethylene)/PLA poly lactic acid
- Recently other bottles made of petroleum-based plastic have had several weight reductions over time to reduce cost and address environmental concerns. These weight reductions have made the bottles quite weak.
- the bottles of the current invention may be placed on a pallet in layers.
- a pallet may be loaded six layers high. Each layer may be separated by a corrugated cardboard separator sheet, and the complete cube may then be shrink-wrapped.
- the palletized bottles may then be double stacked on a trailer.
- the maximum static load on a bottle is 11 bottles plus the proportional weight of the upper pallet; this is a bottle on the bottom layer of the lower pallet.
- the pulp hybrid by virtue of being stronger, is able to endure the same or harsher environment than its plastic counterparts.
- FIG. 1 is a side plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a perspective skeleton view of the bottle illustrated in FIG. 1 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 5 is a side plan view of a top of the bottle illustrated in FIG. 4 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 9 is another view of cross section of a top of another embodiment of a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 A is a sectional view of a top of the bottle of FIG. 10 taken along lines B-B illustrated in FIG. 10 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of still another exemplary embodiment of a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the present invention relates to a bottle which can be used in the storage, transportation, and consumption or use of liquids, said bottle being biodegradable and manufactured from environmentally sustainable materials.
- FIG. 1 there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus, generally designated as 100 , for storing liquids, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the apparatus 100 is a bottle. It is to be understood that the apparatus 100 may be any apparatus or container for storing liquids.
- the bottle 100 comprises a body 110 , a shoulder 120 , a neck 130 , and a cap 140 .
- the cap 140 of the bottle 100 assists in sealing the contents of the bottle 100 until the bottle 100 is opened.
- the neck 130 includes exterior threading 132 on its upper portion 134 for receiving the cap 140 . It is to be understood that the bottle 100 is not limited to including exterior threading 132 and that the cap 140 of the bottle 100 can also be secured through other means known to one skilled in the art.
- FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective skeleton view of the bottle 100
- FIG. 3 illustrates a plan skeleton view of a bottom of the bottle 100 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the body 110 of the bottle 100 may comprise a smooth surface area 114 (best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2 ) for applying a label. It is to be understood that although FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate that the surface area 114 is smooth, other embodiments in which the surface area 114 is not smooth are contemplated.
- the body 110 and shoulder 120 are constructed of pulp, and the neck 130 and cap 140 are formed from bioplastic.
- Illustrated in FIG. 4 is such an exemplary embodiment of the bottle 100 , generally designated as 400 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the bottle 400 . Illustrated in FIG. 5 is a side plan view of a top portion of the bottle 400 , and illustrated in FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the bottle 400 .
- the bottle 200 comprises a pulp body 410 , a pulp shoulder 420 , a bioplastic neck portion 430 , and a bioplastic cap 440 .
- the pulp body 410 can be of any shape known to one skilled in the art to be suitable for storing liquid contents.
- the pulp body 410 is generally tapered, as shown in the figure, to facilitate removal during a molding process, and its base may have the shape of a rounded square to provide strength.
- the pulp shoulder 420 comprises an opening 422 at its top and a vertical lip 424 at its bottom.
- the pulp shoulder has a generally dome-like shape.
- the bioplastic neck portion 430 includes a neck 432 attached to a bottom portion 434 .
- the neck 432 includes a neck flange 438 .
- the bottom portion 434 comprises a ridge 436 and has a dome-like, or conical or square, shape.
- the portion of the dome-like shape of the neck portion 430 below the ridge 436 generally matches the dome-like shape of the pulp shoulder 420 .
- the pulp shoulder 420 comprises an inner surface 421 and an outer surface 423
- the bioplastic neck portion 430 comprises an inner surface 431 and an outer surface 433 .
- the outer surface 433 of the portion of the neck portion 430 below the ridge 436 matches the outer surface 423 of the pulp shoulder 420 adjacent to the opening 422 so that the top edge of the opening 422 of the pulp shoulder abuts against the ridge 436 of the neck portion 430 .
- the matching in shapes of the outer surfaces 433 , 423 of the respective portions of the neck portion 430 below the ridge 436 and of the pulp shoulder 420 provides for a smooth exterior surface of the bottle 400 in the area about the ridge 436 upon joining the bioplastic neck portion 430 and pulp shoulder 420 , as the outer surfaces 433 , 423 of the respective bioplastic neck portion 430 and pulp shoulder 420 on either side of the ridge 436 smoothly transitions from one to another.
- the bioplastic neck flange 438 is cylindrical and extends radially from the top portion of the bioplastic neck portion 430 .
- FIGS. 4 - 6 and in further detail in FIG. 7 which illustrates a portion of a cross section of the bottle 400 taken along a line A-A illustrated in FIG. 4
- the pulp shoulder 420 is placed over the bioplastic neck portion 430
- the neck 432 extends through the opening 422 of the pulp shoulder 420 .
- the neck 432 has exterior threading 439 along the top portion of its circumference for receiving the cap 440 .
- the body 410 of the bottle 400 may also includes a smooth surface 414 onto which a label may be placed.
- the pulp shoulder 420 further comprises a substantially vertical (in cross section) lip 424 at its bottom, as well as a nearly horizontal (in cross section) shelf 426 between the lip 424 and the adjacent portion of the pulp shoulder 420 .
- the lip 424 has a larger circumference that the adjacent portion of the pulp shoulder 420 and creates a flanged mating section.
- the shelf 426 is defined by the difference in circumference between the lip 424 and the adjacent portion of the pulp shoulder 420 .
- the inner circumference of the pulp shoulder 420 at the lip 426 fits over the outer surface of the top 412 of the pulp body 410 , such that the outer surface of the pulp body 410 is adjacent to, and in contact with, the inner surface of the lip 424 .
- the pulp body 410 therefore, abuts the horizontal shelf 426 .
- the pulp body 410 and pulp shoulder 420 are attached using an adhesive 428 , such as known to one skilled in the art. In another exemplary embodiment, they are attached using a heat sealing technique described herein.
- the adhesive is desirable a polymer that is not soluble in water but is biodegradable and repulpable, thereby allowing the bottle to be recycled in the paper stream.
- the fill line of liquid contents may be above the bonding line, the point at which the pulp shoulder 36 is bonded to the pulp body 32 .
- a label may be placed over the mating of the pulp shoulder 420 with the pulp body 410 around a complete circumference of the bottle 400 or 400 ′.
- FIG. 8 there is illustrated yet another exemplary embodiment of a bottle, generally designated as 400 ′, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the bottle 400 ′ includes many of the same elements of features of the bottle 400 but differs in a few respects.
- the neck portion, generally designated as 430 of the bottle 400 ′ differs from the neck portion 430 of the bottle 400 in that the lower dome-like portion, generally designated as 434 ′ lacks the ridge 436 .
- the lack of the ridge 436 is the result of the fact that the neck portion 430 ′ is fitted over the top of the outside surface of the shoulder 420 , as shown in FIG. 8 .
- FIG. 12 illustrates exemplary steps 1210 through 1260 of a method 1200 for manufacturing the bottle 400 or 400 ′, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the method begins with forming the pulp body 410 and pulp shoulder 420 by thermoforming a paper pulp slurry, Step 1210 . After the pulp body 410 and pulp shoulder 420 are thermoformed, they are conveyed to a coating machine that sprays a sealant onto the cavity side (inner surfaces) of the pulp sections, Step 1220 .
- the purpose of this coating is to create a barrier between the liquid and the pulp.
- This sealant could be from the family of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymers, or a bioplastic (that can be sprayed), or any other interior sealing coating known to one skilled in the art.
- the spray coating is then dried in the Step 1220 .
- the pulp sections may be trimmed at their perimeter in an option Step 1230 .
- the method 1200 then proceeds to a Step 1240 . If the Step 1230 is bypassed, the method 1200 passes directly from the Step 1220 to the Step 1240 .
- the bioplastic neck portion 430 or 430 ′ is injection molded from a bioresin material known to one skilled in the art, Step 1240 .
- the bioresin is polylactic acid (PLA).
- the bioplastic neck portion 430 or 430 ′ is then attached to the pulp shoulder 420 , Step 1250 .
- the bioplastic neck portion 430 or 430 ′ is bonded to the pulp shoulder 420 using an adhesive 429 known to one skilled in the art.
- the adhesive 429 is desirably a polymer that is not soluble in water, but is biodegradable and repulpable, allowing the bottle to be recycled in the paper stream.
- the adhesive material 429 (illustrated in FIG. 7 ) is applied to the outer surface of the bioplastic neck portion 430 and the neck portion 430 is then joined together with the inner surface of the pulp shoulder 420 .
- the adhesive material 429 (illustrated in FIG. 8 ) may be applied to the inner surface of the bioplastic neck portion 430 ′ and then joined together with the outer surface of the pulp shoulder 420 .
- the bioplastic neck portion 430 or 430 ′ is secured to the pulp shoulder 420 through a heat sealing process.
- the bioplastic neck portion 430 or 430 ′ and the pulp shoulder 420 are inserted into a purpose-built jig. Heated press tools are then closed on the mating surfaces, and, through pressure and heat, the bioplastic neck portion 430 or 430 ′ is adhered to the pulp shoulder 420 .
- a heat activated adhesive may be introduced on one of the mating surfaces before pressing.
- the pulp shoulder 420 is attached and secured to the pulp body 410 , Step 1260 .
- the pulp shoulder 420 may be attached to the pulp body by an adhesive 428 .
- FIG. 12 illustrates that the Step 1250 is performed after the Step 1240 , it is to be understood that the order of these two steps may be switched in alternative exemplary embodiments.
- FIG. 12 illustrates that the Step 1220 is performed before the Steps 1240 through 1260
- alternative exemplary embodiments of the method 1200 in which the Step 1220 is performed after the Steps 1240 through 1260 are contemplated.
- the inner surface of the assembled bottle 400 or 400 ′ is spray coated with a sealant.
- This sealant could be from the family of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymers, or a bioplastic (that can be sprayed), or any other interior sealing coating known to one skilled in the art.
- the method 1200 of thermoforming involves creating a suspension of paper pulp fibers in water, Step 1310 , and dipping a tool covered in stainless steel gauze into the suspension of paper pulp fibers, Step 1320 .
- a vacuum is applied to the tool and the gauze begins to develop an accumulation of paper fibers while the water passes through the gauze, Step 1330 .
- the tool is removed from the suspension, Step 1340 .
- the vacuum is again applied to the tool causing the accumulation to dewater and compress, thereby creating a wet felt of paper fibers on the tool, Step 1350 .
- the suspension of pulp fibers comprises paper, a sizing agent and/or a wet strength agent that could be any combination of, or exclusively a rosin of, a wax emulsion, alkyl ketene dimer (AKD), or polyamide-epichlorohydrin (PAE).
- a sizing agent and/or a wet strength agent that could be any combination of, or exclusively a rosin of, a wax emulsion, alkyl ketene dimer (AKD), or polyamide-epichlorohydrin (PAE).
- aluminum sulfate, polyaluminum chloride (PAC), or a polymer based additive may be used for flocculation, drainage and in the instance of PAC and the polymer based additive, retention.
- the felt is then transferred using a transfer tool (which is the inverse shape of the molding tool) to a heated press tool, desirably heated to 160-210 degrees Celsius, Step 1360 .
- This press tool then closes on another heated press tool effectively squeezing the felt, Step 1370 . Due to the pressure of the press tools and the heat being applied, the felt dries into a pulp form approximately 1 mm thick that is high in tolerance and has a smooth surface texture.
- the upper press tool then discharges the form from the thermoforming machine, Step 1380 .
- FIG. 9 shows yet another exemplary alternative embodiment of the bottle 400 , generally designated as 400 ′′, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the pulp shoulder of the bottle 400 ′′ generally designated as 420 ′′, differs from the pulp shoulder 420 of the bottle 400 in how it is attached to the pulp body 410 .
- the bottom of pulp shoulder 420 ′′ comprises an S-shaped (in cross section) portion 910 that forms a channel 912 for receiving the top 412 of the pulp body 410 .
- the top 412 of the pulp body 412 may include a channel, similar to the channel 912 , for receiving the bottom of the pulp shoulder 420 .
- the pulp body 410 would be inserted into the pulp shoulder channel 412 , causing the top edge of the pulp body 410 to positively locate in the pulp shoulder channel 412 and thus bond the sections together.
- FIG. 10 shows yet another exemplary embodiment of a bottle, generally designated as 1000 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the bottle 1000 is constructed in two pieces, a pulp body 1010 and a bioplastic top 1030 , instead of three pieces, as previously described herein.
- FIG. 10 A illustrates a section of the bottle 1000 taken at lines B-B illustrated in FIG. 10 .
- the body of the bottle or portions of the body of the bottle may also be made of a bioplastic material, as opposed to a pulp material. Further, the neck portion or portions of the neck portion may be made of pulp.
- FIG. 11 there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of a bottle, generally designated as 1100 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- the bottle 1100 comprises a body 1110 that is formed from a bioplastic material. Otherwise, the bottle 1100 may be constructed similarly to the bottles 400 , 400 ′, or 400 ′′, with additional features as described below. It is to be understood that, in exemplary alternative embodiments, portions of the body 1110 may be made from pulp, for example the bottom of the body 1110 .
Abstract
A bottle for holding liquids that is biodegradable and that is made from environmentally sustainable materials. The bottle includes a body, a shoulder, a neck portion, and a cap. According to one aspect, the neck portion of the bottle is made of bioplastic, and the shoulder and body of the bottle are made from thermoformed pulp. The bioplastic neck can mate with, and be adhered to, the shoulder, and the shoulder can mate with, and be adhered to, the pulp body.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/733,683, filed Jan. 3, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/340,283, filed Nov. 1, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,526,120, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/553,474, filed Jul. 19, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,505,521, which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 61/509,482, entitled “Biodegradable Bottle for Liquids”, filed Jul. 19, 2011, and U.S. provisional application No. 61/509,858, entitled “Biodegradable Bottle for Liquids”, filed Jul. 20, 2011, the contents of which applications are incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention relates to an apparatus for storing liquids and, more specifically, to a bottle for liquids, which bottle is biodegradable and manufactured from environmentally sustainable materials.
- Conventional bottles for liquids are typically made of petroleum-based plastics. Reacting to the rising cost of petroleum-based plastics, manufacturers of conventional plastic bottles have been making bottles thinner in recent years. This trend is predicted to continue for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the price of pulp products having certain strength and performance attributes has stayed relatively stable. As conventional petroleum-based plastic bottles have been made thinner, their performance as measured by static load and compressive strength has often been compromised. Petroleum-based plastics also have a larger carbon footprint than pulp and bioplastics, as petroleum-based plastics typically do not biodegrade, while both pulp and bioplastics do. Further, pulp and bioplastics are made from environmentally sustainable resources, and the former can be recycled easily.
- There have been many recent efforts to develop biodegradable bottles having potential to address problems relating to the cost, performance, and environmental impact of conventional bottles. The most common biodegradable bottles are made from bioplastics, particularly polylactic acid (PLA). These bottles are relatively expensive, and in some respects, PLA bottles do not perform as well as pulp-based bottles.
- U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,385,764 and 5,705,237 relate to a container incorporating a hydraulically settable structural matrix including a hydraulically settable binder such as cement for use in the storing, dispensing, and/or packing of food and beverage products. Disposable containers and cups are those that are particularly useful for dispensing hot and cold food and beverages in a fast food restaurant industry.
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,899,793 relates to a method of manufacturing a pulp mold formed body. The method feeds a pulp slurry to a cavity of a paper making mold having a prescribed cavity shape to form a pulp pre-form including a main part having an opening and a separate part having a flange and connected to an edge of the opening. A pressing member is inserted into the pre-form; the pressing member is expanded to press the pre-form toward the paper making surface; the pre-form is removed from the paper making mold; and then the preform is cut at a joint between the separable part and the main part.
- U.S. Pat. No. 7,048,975 relates to a pulp molded container comprising a pulp molded article having, on the inner surface and/or the outer surface, a resin with the thickness of 5-300 μm formed by applying a coating. The thickness ratio of the resin layer to the molded article is 1/2 to 1/100, and the surface roughness profile of the outer or inner surface of the pulp molded article is such that a center line average roughness is 0.5 to 20 μm.
- U.S. Patent App. Pub. No. US 2010/0200591 (published Aug. 12, 2010), and a product manufactured by the assignee of such patent application (Greenbottle), provide a composite of pulp and a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bladder, where the end user separates the bladder from the pulp at end of use and recycles them in their respective streams. However, if a user left the whole bottle to biodegrade it would not do so due to its PET bladder.
- While there have been attempts in the prior art to address the problems relating to cost, performance, and environmental impact of bottles, there remains a need for new solutions to address these issues with greater efficacy.
- According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a bottle that is biodegradable and that is made from sustainable materials. In one embodiment, the bottle comprises three parts: a neck section, a shoulder section, and a body section. The bottle may be made for a single use.
- In an exemplary embodiment, the neck section, which contains a flange and threads for sealing, is made from a biodegradable bioplastic. A bioplastic neck allows for better performance by the flange and threads than typical pulp-formed versions of the neck; however the neck section could be made from thermoformed pulp. The shoulder and body sections are made from thermoformed pulp. The bottle may be molded in multiple parts and joined at one or more seams with an adhesive. The strength of the bond may be smooth and non porous as bioplastic. The adhesive may be a water-based, food safe compound.
- According to another aspect of the present invention, the bottle has a biodegradable lining. The neck section may have a cap closure at its top. The cap may be made from the same material as the bottle neck. The cap may screw onto the top of the container.
- According to another aspect of the present invention, the bottle may be used for the storage and consumption of beverages including water, juices, sports and energy drinks. As such, the bottle may be a container of a size to hold twelve ounces of liquid, or any other convenient volume of liquid. In certain embodiments, the bottle may include an adhesive that may be FDA approved for use in connection with human consumption. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the bottle may be used for inedible products such as detergents, solvents, and oil-based products. The adhesive and the lining inside the bottle may vary as appropriate for the particular liquid contained within the bottle.
- In an embodiment, the bottle may have the look of conventional plastic bottles that are currently on the market today. As such, the bottle may have an area to be used as a label area for attaching a label. When used as a bottle for beverages, the bottle may have a similar neck design to existing beverage bottles, including a neck with a flange below the threads where a top is screwed on.
- The bottle may have similar overall look or dimensions as conventional plastic bottles for ease in utilizing existing manufacturing, distribution, and retail channels, as well as to appeal to consumers, but the bottle may have certain distinguishing features that set it apart from conventional plastic bottles. The bottle may be designed to be filled on a standard production line so that it can be integrated into an existing production line.
- The bottling environment may rely on holding and controlling the bottle by the neck flange beneath the cap. The bottle may rest on this flange as it is transported through the various processes of bottling which include initial cleaning/rinsing, labeling, filling and capping. The bottle may be inverted to drain after rinsing or clamped to prevent rotation as the cap and seal are twisted on; both are done by manipulating the flange.
- The bottle of the present invention exceeds the strength and capabilities of the latest PET(polyethylene)/PLA (poly lactic acid) bottles. Recently other bottles made of petroleum-based plastic have had several weight reductions over time to reduce cost and address environmental concerns. These weight reductions have made the bottles quite weak. In the packing stage of the bottling process, the bottles of the current invention may be placed on a pallet in layers. A pallet may be loaded six layers high. Each layer may be separated by a corrugated cardboard separator sheet, and the complete cube may then be shrink-wrapped. The palletized bottles may then be double stacked on a trailer. The maximum static load on a bottle is 11 bottles plus the proportional weight of the upper pallet; this is a bottle on the bottom layer of the lower pallet.
- Thus, the pulp hybrid, by virtue of being stronger, is able to endure the same or harsher environment than its plastic counterparts.
- For the purpose of illustration, there are shown in the drawings certain embodiments of the present invention. In the drawings, like numerals indicate like elements throughout. It should be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements, dimensions, and instruments shown. In the drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a side plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective skeleton view of the bottle illustrated inFIG. 1 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 is a plan skeleton view of a bottom of the bottle illustrated inFIG. 1 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a side plan view of a top of the bottle illustrated inFIG. 4 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the bottle illustrated inFIG. 4 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7 is a view of half of a cross section of the top of the bottle ofFIG. 4 taken along a line A-A illustrated inFIG. 4 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is view of a cross section of a top of another embodiment of a bottle taken along a line similar to the line A-A illustrated inFIG. 4 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 9 is another view of cross section of a top of another embodiment of a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 10A is a sectional view of a top of the bottle ofFIG. 10 taken along lines B-B illustrated inFIG. 10 , in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of still another exemplary embodiment of a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 12 illustrates exemplary steps of a method of manufacturing a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and -
FIG. 13 illustrates exemplary steps of a method of thermoforming a bottle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. - The present invention relates to a bottle which can be used in the storage, transportation, and consumption or use of liquids, said bottle being biodegradable and manufactured from environmentally sustainable materials.
- Referring now to
FIG. 1 , there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus, generally designated as 100, for storing liquids, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated, theapparatus 100 is a bottle. It is to be understood that theapparatus 100 may be any apparatus or container for storing liquids. - The
bottle 100 comprises abody 110, ashoulder 120, aneck 130, and acap 140. Thecap 140 of thebottle 100 assists in sealing the contents of thebottle 100 until thebottle 100 is opened. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated inFIG. 1 , theneck 130 includes exterior threading 132 on itsupper portion 134 for receiving thecap 140. It is to be understood that thebottle 100 is not limited to including exterior threading 132 and that thecap 140 of thebottle 100 can also be secured through other means known to one skilled in the art. -
FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective skeleton view of thebottle 100, andFIG. 3 illustrates a plan skeleton view of a bottom of thebottle 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Thebody 110 of thebottle 100 may comprise a smooth surface area 114 (best seen inFIGS. 1 and 2 ) for applying a label. It is to be understood that althoughFIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate that thesurface area 114 is smooth, other embodiments in which thesurface area 114 is not smooth are contemplated. - In an exemplary embodiment of the
bottle 100, thebody 110 andshoulder 120 are constructed of pulp, and theneck 130 andcap 140 are formed from bioplastic. Illustrated inFIG. 4 is such an exemplary embodiment of thebottle 100, generally designated as 400, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Specifically,FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of thebottle 400. Illustrated inFIG. 5 is a side plan view of a top portion of thebottle 400, and illustrated inFIG. 6 is an exploded view of thebottle 400. - Referring to
FIGS. 4-6 together, the bottle 200 comprises apulp body 410, apulp shoulder 420, abioplastic neck portion 430, and abioplastic cap 440. Thepulp body 410 can be of any shape known to one skilled in the art to be suitable for storing liquid contents. Thepulp body 410 is generally tapered, as shown in the figure, to facilitate removal during a molding process, and its base may have the shape of a rounded square to provide strength. - The
pulp shoulder 420 comprises anopening 422 at its top and avertical lip 424 at its bottom. The pulp shoulder has a generally dome-like shape. Thebioplastic neck portion 430 includes aneck 432 attached to abottom portion 434. Theneck 432 includes aneck flange 438. Thebottom portion 434 comprises aridge 436 and has a dome-like, or conical or square, shape. The portion of the dome-like shape of theneck portion 430 below theridge 436 generally matches the dome-like shape of thepulp shoulder 420. Thepulp shoulder 420 comprises aninner surface 421 and anouter surface 423, and thebioplastic neck portion 430 comprises aninner surface 431 and an outer surface 433. Thus, the outer surface 433 of the portion of theneck portion 430 below theridge 436 matches theouter surface 423 of thepulp shoulder 420 adjacent to theopening 422 so that the top edge of theopening 422 of the pulp shoulder abuts against theridge 436 of theneck portion 430. The matching in shapes of theouter surfaces 433, 423 of the respective portions of theneck portion 430 below theridge 436 and of thepulp shoulder 420 provides for a smooth exterior surface of thebottle 400 in the area about theridge 436 upon joining thebioplastic neck portion 430 andpulp shoulder 420, as theouter surfaces 433, 423 of the respectivebioplastic neck portion 430 andpulp shoulder 420 on either side of theridge 436 smoothly transitions from one to another. - The
bioplastic neck flange 438 is cylindrical and extends radially from the top portion of thebioplastic neck portion 430. In one embodiment, illustrated inFIGS. 4-6 and in further detail inFIG. 7 , which illustrates a portion of a cross section of thebottle 400 taken along a line A-A illustrated inFIG. 4 , thepulp shoulder 420 is placed over thebioplastic neck portion 430, and theneck 432 extends through theopening 422 of thepulp shoulder 420. Theneck 432 has exterior threading 439 along the top portion of its circumference for receiving thecap 440. It is to be understood that thecap 440 of thebottle 400 can also be secured through other means known to one skilled in the art. Thebody 410 of thebottle 400 may also includes asmooth surface 414 onto which a label may be placed. - As seen in
FIG. 7 , thepulp shoulder 420 further comprises a substantially vertical (in cross section)lip 424 at its bottom, as well as a nearly horizontal (in cross section)shelf 426 between thelip 424 and the adjacent portion of thepulp shoulder 420. Thelip 424 has a larger circumference that the adjacent portion of thepulp shoulder 420 and creates a flanged mating section. Theshelf 426 is defined by the difference in circumference between thelip 424 and the adjacent portion of thepulp shoulder 420. The inner circumference of thepulp shoulder 420 at thelip 426 fits over the outer surface of the top 412 of thepulp body 410, such that the outer surface of thepulp body 410 is adjacent to, and in contact with, the inner surface of thelip 424. Thepulp body 410, therefore, abuts thehorizontal shelf 426. - In one exemplary embodiment of the
bottle 400, thepulp body 410 andpulp shoulder 420 are attached using an adhesive 428, such as known to one skilled in the art. In another exemplary embodiment, they are attached using a heat sealing technique described herein. As set forth below, the adhesive is desirable a polymer that is not soluble in water but is biodegradable and repulpable, thereby allowing the bottle to be recycled in the paper stream. In such an embodiment, the fill line of liquid contents may be above the bonding line, the point at which the pulp shoulder 36 is bonded to the pulp body 32. A label may be placed over the mating of thepulp shoulder 420 with thepulp body 410 around a complete circumference of thebottle - Referring now to
FIG. 8 , there is illustrated yet another exemplary embodiment of a bottle, generally designated as 400′, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Thebottle 400′ includes many of the same elements of features of thebottle 400 but differs in a few respects. The neck portion, generally designated as 430, of thebottle 400′ differs from theneck portion 430 of thebottle 400 in that the lower dome-like portion, generally designated as 434′ lacks theridge 436. The lack of theridge 436 is the result of the fact that theneck portion 430′ is fitted over the top of the outside surface of theshoulder 420, as shown inFIG. 8 . - A method of manufacturing the
bottle FIG. 12 illustratesexemplary steps 1210 through 1260 of amethod 1200 for manufacturing thebottle pulp body 410 andpulp shoulder 420 by thermoforming a paper pulp slurry,Step 1210. After thepulp body 410 andpulp shoulder 420 are thermoformed, they are conveyed to a coating machine that sprays a sealant onto the cavity side (inner surfaces) of the pulp sections,Step 1220. The purpose of this coating is to create a barrier between the liquid and the pulp. This sealant could be from the family of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymers, or a bioplastic (that can be sprayed), or any other interior sealing coating known to one skilled in the art. The spray coating is then dried in theStep 1220. In an exemplary embodiment of themethod 1200, after thepulp body 410 andpulp shoulder 420 are spray coated and dried in theStep 1220, the pulp sections may be trimmed at their perimeter in anoption Step 1230. Themethod 1200 then proceeds to aStep 1240. If theStep 1230 is bypassed, themethod 1200 passes directly from theStep 1220 to theStep 1240. - The
bioplastic neck portion Step 1240. In an exemplary embodiment, the bioresin is polylactic acid (PLA). Thebioplastic neck portion pulp shoulder 420,Step 1250. In an exemplary embodiment of theStep 1250, thebioplastic neck portion pulp shoulder 420 using an adhesive 429 known to one skilled in the art. The adhesive 429 is desirably a polymer that is not soluble in water, but is biodegradable and repulpable, allowing the bottle to be recycled in the paper stream. With respect to thebottle 400, the adhesive material 429 (illustrated inFIG. 7 ) is applied to the outer surface of thebioplastic neck portion 430 and theneck portion 430 is then joined together with the inner surface of thepulp shoulder 420. With respect to thebottle 400′, the adhesive material 429 (illustrated inFIG. 8 ) may be applied to the inner surface of thebioplastic neck portion 430′ and then joined together with the outer surface of thepulp shoulder 420. - In another exemplary embodiment of the
Step 1250, thebioplastic neck portion pulp shoulder 420 through a heat sealing process. Thebioplastic neck portion pulp shoulder 420 are inserted into a purpose-built jig. Heated press tools are then closed on the mating surfaces, and, through pressure and heat, thebioplastic neck portion pulp shoulder 420. Alternatively, if thebioplastic neck portion - Following the
Step 1250, thepulp shoulder 420 is attached and secured to thepulp body 410,Step 1260. In theStep 1260, thepulp shoulder 420 may be attached to the pulp body by an adhesive 428. AlthoughFIG. 12 illustrates that theStep 1250 is performed after theStep 1240, it is to be understood that the order of these two steps may be switched in alternative exemplary embodiments. Additionally, althoughFIG. 12 illustrates that theStep 1220 is performed before theSteps 1240 through 1260, alternative exemplary embodiments of themethod 1200 in which theStep 1220 is performed after theSteps 1240 through 1260 are contemplated. In such an embodiment, the inner surface of the assembledbottle - Referring now to
FIG. 13 , there are illustratedexemplary Steps 1310 though 1380 of amethod 1300 of thermoforming performed in theStep 1210 of themethod 1200, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Themethod 1200 of thermoforming involves creating a suspension of paper pulp fibers in water,Step 1310, and dipping a tool covered in stainless steel gauze into the suspension of paper pulp fibers,Step 1320. A vacuum is applied to the tool and the gauze begins to develop an accumulation of paper fibers while the water passes through the gauze,Step 1330. Once the desired level of pulp is achieved on the gauze, the tool is removed from the suspension,Step 1340. The vacuum is again applied to the tool causing the accumulation to dewater and compress, thereby creating a wet felt of paper fibers on the tool,Step 1350. The suspension of pulp fibers comprises paper, a sizing agent and/or a wet strength agent that could be any combination of, or exclusively a rosin of, a wax emulsion, alkyl ketene dimer (AKD), or polyamide-epichlorohydrin (PAE). Additionally, aluminum sulfate, polyaluminum chloride (PAC), or a polymer based additive may be used for flocculation, drainage and in the instance of PAC and the polymer based additive, retention. - The felt is then transferred using a transfer tool (which is the inverse shape of the molding tool) to a heated press tool, desirably heated to 160-210 degrees Celsius,
Step 1360. This press tool then closes on another heated press tool effectively squeezing the felt,Step 1370. Due to the pressure of the press tools and the heat being applied, the felt dries into a pulp form approximately 1 mm thick that is high in tolerance and has a smooth surface texture. The upper press tool then discharges the form from the thermoforming machine,Step 1380. -
FIG. 9 shows yet another exemplary alternative embodiment of thebottle 400, generally designated as 400″, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The pulp shoulder of thebottle 400″, generally designated as 420″, differs from thepulp shoulder 420 of thebottle 400 in how it is attached to thepulp body 410. The bottom ofpulp shoulder 420″ comprises an S-shaped (in cross section)portion 910 that forms achannel 912 for receiving the top 412 of thepulp body 410. In another exemplary embodiment, the top 412 of thepulp body 412 may include a channel, similar to thechannel 912, for receiving the bottom of thepulp shoulder 420. In such an embodiment, once the adhesive is applied inside thepulp shoulder channel 412, thepulp body 410 would be inserted into thepulp shoulder channel 412, causing the top edge of thepulp body 410 to positively locate in thepulp shoulder channel 412 and thus bond the sections together. -
FIG. 10 shows yet another exemplary embodiment of a bottle, generally designated as 1000, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Thebottle 1000 is constructed in two pieces, apulp body 1010 and abioplastic top 1030, instead of three pieces, as previously described herein.FIG. 10A illustrates a section of thebottle 1000 taken at lines B-B illustrated inFIG. 10 . - Referring to
FIGS. 10 and 10A , thepulp body 1010 may be similar to thepulp body 410 of thebottle 400, and the top 1030 may be similar to theshoulder 420 and theneck portion 430 if they were to be formed from one piece in a bioplastic. In a first exemplary embodiment, the tall, outwardly draftedpulp body 1010 is directly bonded to thebioplastic top 1030 by an adhesive 1038. Thebioplastic top 1030 is one piece and functions as theshoulder 420 andneck portion 430. - As shown in
FIG. 10A , abottom circumference 1032 of thebioplastic top 1030 splits into two vertically alignededges channel 1035. To assemble, the adhesive 1038 may be applied in thechannel 1035, so that upon insertion of thetop edge 1012 of thepulp body 1010 into thechannel 1035, thebioplastic top 1030 and thepulp body 1010 will be joined. The vertically alignededges pulp body 1010. The fill line of thebottle 1000 for liquid contents may be above the bonding line of thebottle 1000, which line is at which thebioplastic top 1030 and thepulp body 1010 are joined. Additionally, thepulp body 1010 may comprise a smoothouter surface 1014 for applying a label. - In any of the foregoing embodiments, the body of the bottle or portions of the body of the bottle may also be made of a bioplastic material, as opposed to a pulp material. Further, the neck portion or portions of the neck portion may be made of pulp. Referring now to
FIG. 11 , there is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of a bottle, generally designated as 1100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Thebottle 1100 comprises abody 1110 that is formed from a bioplastic material. Otherwise, thebottle 1100 may be constructed similarly to thebottles body 1110 may be made from pulp, for example the bottom of thebody 1110. - The
body 1110 comprises a plurality of vertically alignedbase creases 1167 that provide additional structural support to thebody 1110. Thebody 1110 may have asurface area 1169 to apply a label, which may serve to conceal any visible lines where the pieces of the bottle are joined. It is to be understood that other embodiments of thebottle 1110 in which thecreases 1167 are ridges are contemplated or that any of thecreases 1167 orridges 1167 may be horizontal or circumferentially disposed about thebody 1110. Further, it is contemplated that radial or concentric creases or grooves may be disposed on ashoulder 1120 of thebottle 1100, whichshoulder 1120 corresponds to thepulp shoulder 420 of thebottle 400. - These and other advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing specification. Accordingly, it is to be recognized by those skilled in the art that changes or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the broad inventive concepts of the invention. It is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described herein, but is intended to include all changes and modifications that are within the scope and spirit of the invention.
Claims (24)
1. A liquid containing apparatus, comprising:
a pulp body; and
a top portion comprising a shoulder portion;
wherein the top portion mates with the pulp body and is directly bonded to the pulp body;
wherein the shoulder portion comprises two vertically aligned edges forming a channel;
wherein an upper periphery of the pulp body resides within and is bonded to the top portion.
2. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the top portion is bonded to the pulp body by way of a heat seal formed between the vertically aligned edges of the top portion and the pulp body.
3. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the top portion is bonded to the pulp body by way of an adhesive applied between the vertically aligned edges of the top portion and the pulp body.
4. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the top portion comprising a neck portion conjoined with the shoulder portion.
5. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the shoulder portion is formed from plastic.
6. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the shoulder portion is formed from pulp.
7. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a label applied at least over a portion of the top portion and a portion of the pulp body where the top portion and the pulp body are bonded together.
8. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the pulp body includes one or more vertical strengthening creases.
9. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the pulp body further comprises one or more vertical strengthening ribs.
10. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the shoulder portion further comprises one or more radial strengthening creases.
11. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the pulp body further comprises an interior sealing coating.
12. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 11 , wherein the interior sealing coating is formed from a polyvinyl alcohol polymer.
13. A liquid containing apparatus, comprising:
a pulp body; and
a top portion comprising a shoulder portion;
wherein the top portion mates with the pulp body and is directly bonded to the pulp body;
wherein the shoulder portion comprises a lower edge;
wherein an upper periphery of the pulp body comprising a channel
wherein the lower edge of the shoulder portion resides within and is bonded to the channel.
14. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the top portion is bonded to the pulp body by way of a heat seal formed between the lower edge of the shoulder portion and the pulp body.
15. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the top portion is bonded to the pulp body by way of an adhesive applied between the lower edge of the shoulder portion and the pulp body.
16. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the top portion comprising a neck portion conjoined with the shoulder portion.
17. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the shoulder portion is formed from plastic.
18. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the shoulder portion is formed from pulp.
19. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , further comprising a label applied at least over a portion of the top portion and a portion of the pulp body where the top portion and the pulp body are bonded together.
20. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the pulp body includes one or more vertical strengthening creases.
21. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the pulp body further comprises one or more vertical strengthening ribs.
22. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the shoulder portion further comprises one or more radial strengthening creases.
23. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the pulp body further comprises an interior sealing coating.
24. The liquid containing apparatus of claim 23 , wherein the interior sealing coating is formed from a polyvinyl alcohol polymer.
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US18/239,173 US20230399157A1 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2023-08-29 | Biodegradable Bottle For Liquids |
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US16/733,683 Active 2034-03-19 US11753223B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2020-01-03 | Biodegradable bottle for liquids |
US18/239,173 Pending US20230399157A1 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2023-08-29 | Biodegradable Bottle For Liquids |
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US13/553,474 Active 2033-01-02 US9505521B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2012-07-19 | Biodegradable bottle for liquids |
US15/340,283 Active US10526120B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2016-11-01 | Biodegradable bottle for liquids |
US16/733,683 Active 2034-03-19 US11753223B2 (en) | 2011-07-19 | 2020-01-03 | Biodegradable bottle for liquids |
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EP (2) | EP3181471B8 (en) |
CN (1) | CN103874636B (en) |
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DE (1) | DE202012013166U1 (en) |
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US20220081846A1 (en) * | 2019-01-03 | 2022-03-17 | Celwise Ab | A pick-up press device and method of producing a 3d-molded product from a pulp slurry |
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CN112173399A (en) * | 2019-07-03 | 2021-01-05 | 许喻婷 | Paper-base composite structure of beverage bottle |
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2012
- 2012-07-19 ES ES17153828T patent/ES2728755T3/en active Active
- 2012-07-19 CA CA2842319A patent/CA2842319C/en active Active
- 2012-07-19 CN CN201280036021.8A patent/CN103874636B/en active Active
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- 2012-07-19 EP EP17153828.3A patent/EP3181471B8/en active Active
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2016
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2020
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2023
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Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20220081846A1 (en) * | 2019-01-03 | 2022-03-17 | Celwise Ab | A pick-up press device and method of producing a 3d-molded product from a pulp slurry |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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EP3181471B1 (en) | 2019-05-08 |
US20130020277A1 (en) | 2013-01-24 |
US11753223B2 (en) | 2023-09-12 |
US10526120B2 (en) | 2020-01-07 |
EP2734451A4 (en) | 2015-08-26 |
ES2621486T3 (en) | 2017-07-04 |
EP3181471B8 (en) | 2019-06-26 |
CA2842319C (en) | 2022-07-05 |
CN103874636A (en) | 2014-06-18 |
EP3181471A1 (en) | 2017-06-21 |
WO2013013065A1 (en) | 2013-01-24 |
EP2734451A1 (en) | 2014-05-28 |
ES2728755T3 (en) | 2019-10-28 |
US9505521B2 (en) | 2016-11-29 |
DE202012013166U1 (en) | 2015-03-20 |
CA2842319A1 (en) | 2013-01-24 |
US20200140166A1 (en) | 2020-05-07 |
US20170121081A1 (en) | 2017-05-04 |
EP2734451B1 (en) | 2017-02-22 |
CN103874636B (en) | 2016-04-13 |
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