WO1990014283A1 - Fermeture ou vanne a obturation automatique pour recipients tridimensionnels - Google Patents

Fermeture ou vanne a obturation automatique pour recipients tridimensionnels Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1990014283A1
WO1990014283A1 PCT/US1990/002862 US9002862W WO9014283A1 WO 1990014283 A1 WO1990014283 A1 WO 1990014283A1 US 9002862 W US9002862 W US 9002862W WO 9014283 A1 WO9014283 A1 WO 9014283A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
container
fluid
exit flow
flow channel
channel
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1990/002862
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
James Patrick Hawkins
Original Assignee
James Patrick Hawkins
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 James Patrick Hawkins filed Critical James Patrick Hawkins
Publication of WO1990014283A1 publication Critical patent/WO1990014283A1/fr

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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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/40—Packages formed by enclosing successive articles, or increments of material, in webs, e.g. folded or tubular webs, or by subdividing tubes filled with liquid, semi-liquid, or plastic materials
    • B65D75/44—Individual packages cut from webs or tubes
    • B65D75/48—Individual packages cut from webs or tubes containing liquids, semiliquids, or pastes, e.g. cushion-shaped packages
    • B65D75/50—Tetrahedral packages
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
    • B65D75/5805—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture for tearing a side strip parallel and next to the edge, e.g. by means of a line of weakness
    • B65D75/5811—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture for tearing a side strip parallel and next to the edge, e.g. by means of a line of weakness and defining, after tearing, a small dispensing spout, a small orifice or the like
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/52—Details
    • B65D75/58—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture
    • B65D75/5816—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture for tearing a corner or other small portion next to the edge, e.g. a U-shaped portion
    • B65D75/5822—Opening or contents-removing devices added or incorporated during package manufacture for tearing a corner or other small portion next to the edge, e.g. a U-shaped portion and defining, after tearing, a small dispensing spout, a small orifice or the like
    • 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
    • B65D75/00—Packages comprising articles or materials partially or wholly enclosed in strips, sheets, blanks, tubes, or webs of flexible sheet material, e.g. in folded wrappers
    • B65D75/28—Articles or materials wholly enclosed in composite wrappers, i.e. wrappers formed by associating or interconnecting two or more sheets or blanks
    • B65D75/30—Articles or materials enclosed between two opposed sheets or blanks having their margins united, e.g. by pressure-sensitive adhesive, crimping, heat-sealing, or welding

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to self-sealing closures, which can also serve as valves, for use in connection with larger volume, three-dimensional containers or conduits. More particularly, the invention relates to an essentially two-dimensional exit channel with automatic self-sealing capabilities used in connection with a three-dimensional container.
  • Such packaging is comprised primarily of two flexible sheets of material (typically plastic or some other form of polymer) which are formed together around their periphery to form a pouch-like container.
  • the pouch is much like a pocket, and is essentially two dimensional in terms of its fluid containing capabilities.
  • the user of the pouch simply tears or cuts one side of the pouch to access an exit flow channel, and the fluid contents are expelled by manual or mechanical pressure.
  • Such flexible-sided pouches are commonly used for single-serving fluids, such as condiments.
  • the utility of such flexible-sided packaging can be greatly increased by providing an exit flow channel which is automatically self- sealing.
  • the package is comprised of an essentially two-dimensional fluid containing element, as described above, and a flat exit flow area which contains a channel for permitting the egress of fluid from the package.
  • the exit flow channel will automatically self-seal in order to prevent further fluid flow out of the package.
  • leakage, spills or spoilage of the package contents can be avoided.
  • This automatic self-sealing feature is obviously a significant advantage in both single use and multiple use packages.
  • a flexible-sided package When coupled with this self-sealing closure, a flexible-sided package can be very practical and yet inexpensive to manufacture. Nevertheless, certain limitations in this type of packaging have been identified. First, since the package is essentially two dimensional, the total volume of fluid which the package can contain is somewhat limited, depending, of course, on the overall dimensions of the package. Secondly, under certain conditions (for example, when the volume of its contents is relatively large) , there is a tendency of the flexible sided package to crease in or near the flattened exit flow channel area, thus disturbing the fluid flow and self- sealing characteristics. Therefore, there is a need for the flexible-sided packaging technology to address these limitations.
  • the present invention advantageously couples the use of a three-dimensional, flexible-sided package with a two- dimensional exit flow channel area in order to provide a larger volume container and to avoid creasing in the exit flow area.
  • the exit flow area of the package is also provided with a self-sealing closure which functions just as well, if not better, with a three-dimensional container, as with essentially two-dimensional pouches.
  • a tetrahedral package can be combined with a flat, relatively small exit flow area at one vertex.
  • the tetrahedral shape of the package provides a three-dimensional container for maximizing the volume of fluid contents.
  • the flat exit flow channel area is provided with a relatively short, straight exit flow channel with self- sealing characteristics, as described below.
  • a tetrahedral package inhibits the tendency of the flexible material to crease in the exit flow area. This is because of the larger material surface area which is available near the exit flow channel.
  • One of the more important advantages of the present invention is the use of a tapered transition area for channeling fluid from the three-dimensional container to the flattened two-dimensional exit flow area.
  • This tapered transition smoothes the exit flow of the fluid and prevents the creasing of the flexible side walls of the package, which may disrupt the flow or cause unpredictable results in the self-sealing characteristics of the exit flow channel.
  • the tapered fluid transition area enhances the performance of the self-sealing closure technology, whether used in connection with a two- dimensional pouch-like container or a three-dimensional container.
  • the transition area permits the use of a relatively short, straight exit flow channel.
  • Another aspect of the present invention is the strength of the resulting three-dimensional package. This is accomplished by minimizing the seams of the package which may burst when expulsion pressure is applied thereto. Because of the flexible sides, which are not as inherently strong as rigid walled packaging, it is important that the package withstand a reasonable range of pressure in order to prevent breakage and leakage.
  • seamless co-extruded or laminated sleeve material can be utilized to optimize the strength characteristics of the package.
  • the entire exit flow channel area can be preformed (by the use, for example, of nesting dies) so that when expulsion pressure is applied to the package, the exit flow channel will take on the desired pre-designed form that facilitates the operation of the self-sealing closure.
  • the package embodying the principles of the present invention can be utilized in connection with fluids of all types, whether for human consumption, medical use, industrial use, etc.
  • the principles of the present invention are also applicable in a wide variety of fluid flow control systems.
  • the self-sealing closure can be utilized as a valve when situated between two conduits.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a three-dimensional package, in this case having an essentially tetrahedral configuration, combined with a self-sealing closure situated at one vertex;
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a three-dimensional package, in this case having an essentially cylindrical configuration;
  • Figure 3 is a side view of the cylindrical package shown in Figure 2;
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view of the self-sealing technology of the present invention utilized in fluid connection between two conduits such that the closure acts as a fluid control valve;
  • Figure 5 is a plan view of the container of the present invention, illustrating the fluid reservoir and the exit flow channel;
  • Figure 6 is a side, cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of Figure 5, showing the pouch-like shape of the fluid reservoir
  • Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the exit flow channel taken along line 7-7 of Figure 5, illustrating the essentially flat, laminate construction of the exit flow channel;
  • Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the exit flow channel similar to Figure 7, illustrating its essentially elliptical shape when pressure is applied to the container and fluid is forced out through the channel;
  • Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of the cross- section of the exit flow channel, illustrating the elasticity of the container material surrounding the channel.
  • Figures 10-12 are illustrations of containers similar to Figure 5, showing just a few exemplary exit flow channel designs from the wide variety of designs capable with the principles of the present invention. Detailed Description of the Invention
  • FIG. 1 there is shown a flexible sided container 10 embodying the principles of the present invention.
  • the container 10 includes a fluid reservoir 12, a tapered fluid flow transition area 14, a flattened exit flow area 16, and an exit flow channel 18 formed within said area 16.
  • the tetrahedral container of Figure 1 illustrates only a single three-dimensional container design, and that virtually an infinite number of larger volume, three-dimensional containers and channel designs are possible under the present invention.
  • the container 10 of Figure 1 is constructed from flexible material, such as plastic or other suitable polymers, which are formed together along several seams 20 to provide a fluid container.
  • the seals at each seam 20 may be accomplished in any suitable fashion, for example, by heat sealing.
  • a single sheet of material may be folded to form several of the boundaries, thereby reducing the number of seams in the package and enhancing its overall strength characteristics, as explained in more detail below.
  • the exit flow area 16 is comprised of two sheets of flexible material sealed together to form a flat, upper boundary for the package. Although the exit flow area 16 of the package 10 is shown at the upper vertex in Figure 1, it may be formed at any of the other vertices, or even between vertices, in order to take advantage of the principles of the present invention.
  • an exit flow channel 18 Formed in the exit flow boundary is an exit flow channel 18 which terminates at a distal end 22 near the outer edge of the exit flow channel area 16.
  • the user simply tears or cuts the boundary seal of the package near the distal end 22 of the exit flow channel 18, as indicated by the dotted line 24, in order to form an exit orifice.
  • Manual or mechanical pressure is then applied to the container. Under pressure, the fluid contents of the container are forced out of the reservoir 12, into the fluid transition area 14, and out of the exit flow channel 18. Under pressure conditions, the channel 18 enlarges to take on an approximately elliptical cross-section.
  • the exit flow channel 18 automatically self-seals in order to prevent any further fluid flow. Sealing is accomplished because the sides of the channel 18 are drawn together again in the essentially flat condition shown in Figure 1.
  • the three-dimensional package 10 is capable of containing a relatively larger volume of fluid.
  • the tapered transition area 14, situated between the reservoir 12 and the exit flow channel area 16, accomplishes at least two important objectives. First, it channels the fluid as it exits the package in order to avoid air pockets and other turbulence. Secondly, the transition area 14 avoids the sharp juxtaposition of a large volume area represented by the reservoir 12 and the two-dimensional exit flow area 16, which juxtaposition has been partially shown to cause undesirable creasing of the package sides in the exit flow area when the package is under expulsion pressure.
  • transition area 14 helps to maintain the integrity of the three- dimensional package configuration during exit flow conditions, thereby avoiding one-dimensional creasing in the critical exit flow area.
  • the tapered transition area 14 and the exit flow area 16 can be preformed by the use of nesting dies so that these areas will take on a predesigned configuration when the package is under expulsion pressure. For the same reasons discussed above, these actions will eliminate creasing and improve the performance of the self seal.
  • Figure 2 illustrates a second embodiment of the present package 10 having a three-dimensional fluid reservoir, in this case, an essentially cylindrical configuration.
  • the cylindrical reservoir 26 is also provided with an upper tapered transition area 28 for channeling fluid flow into the exit flow channel 30.
  • the exit flow channel 30 is also formed within a flattened, two-dimensional exit flow area 32, which can be cut in order to access the exit flow channel 30.
  • Figure 3 is a side view of the essentially cylindrical package of Figure 2, illustrating the flattened exit flow area 32.
  • the package of Figures 2 and 3 is its ability to be formed it without vertical seams.
  • the package 10 of Figure 2 can be formed by the use of only two seals, one at the bottom (represented by bottom seal 34) and one at the top (represented by the exit flow area 32) .
  • the overall strength of the package can be greatly enhanced.
  • the tetrahedral package of Figure 1. Using seamless sleeve technology, one of the three seals 20 can be eliminated, thus avoid the need to form a seam across, or essentially perpendicular to another heat-sealed seam. In other words, an essentially tetrahedral package can be formed from a seamless cylindrical sleeve.
  • Figure 4 illustrates another application of the self- sealing closure of the present invention.
  • the closure can be used as a valve 36 to connect two adjacent reservoirs or conduits 38, 40 as shown in Figure 4.
  • a fluid channel 42 is formed in a flattened valve area 36 by the use of two deformable sheets sealed together in the flattened valve area 36.
  • the self-sealing valve 36 will open and permit the continued flow of the fluid from conduit 38, through the channel 42 and into the conduit 40. If the pressure of the fluid drops below a predetermined level, the closure 36 will automatically self-seal, thus preventing further fluid flow.
  • the application discloses an automatically self-sealing, flexible-sided container by providing an exit flow channel which is independent of the path of the channel. Rather, the ability of the channel to self-seal, after achieving the desired fluid flow rate for a specified applied pressure range, depends solely upon the width and length dimensions of the channel and the relationship between those dimensions and certain parameters specific to the container material, the fluid contained therein, and the desired pressure flow rate conditions to which the container is subjected.
  • the container is comprised of a pouch-like reservoir of fluid which is expelled through an exit flow channel when pressure is applied to the container.
  • the overall shape (i.e. f the path) of the exit flow channel of the present invention can vary widely according to the intended application or use of the contents, and the channel will still self-seal so long as its width and length are proportional to certain parametrical relationships exhibited by the material from which the container is formed and its fluid contents. Such self-sealing will be accomplished when the pressure applied to the container is below a certain, predetermined critical pressure.
  • the ability of the exit flow channel of the invention to self-seal is independent of the path of the channel, except to the extent that the channel's path determines its length.
  • the present invention takes a global approach in that it considers all relevant parameters associated with self-sealing. In order to facilitate the analysis of many parameters, they have been combined into three "multiparameters," which are simply ratios and relationships of groups of parameters. These multiparameters are dimensionless, i.e. , their value is independent of the units of the individual parameters of which they are comprised. By the use of these dimensionless multiparameters, the essentials of the design of the container of the present invention and its performance under scaling are revealed in a particularly clear and transparent form. The prior art is not based upon this global understanding.
  • the present invention also comprises a unique method for determining the width and length of an exit flow channel which will achieve self- sealing according to the desired application for the contents of the container.
  • the container of the present invention is comprised of two flexible sheets of material of suitable strength which are superimposed one upon the other and mechanically sealed along all four edges to form a fluid reservoir.
  • the mechanical sealing can be accomplished by any suitable means, such as heat sealing, etc.
  • Leading from the reservoir is an exit flow channel which terminates at the boundary seal, very near to the outer edge of the container.
  • the contents of the container can be expelled by cutting or tearing the boundary seal to expose an orifice of the exit flow channel to ambient air and pressure. Pressure is then applied, either manually or mechanically, to the sides of the container to force its contents out through the exit flow channel.
  • the exit flow channel is also essentially flat in its relaxed state.
  • fluid is forced through the channel which enlarges to take on a cross-sectional shape which is approximately that of an ellipse.
  • the shape and size of the ellipse is proportional to the amount of pressure being applied to the container, and the elliptical cross- section becomes more and more circular with increasing pressure.
  • the exit flow channel is itself a deformable boundary which will vary in a manner proportional to many other fluid and material parameters. By carefully considering these parameters, the exit flow channel self- seals automatically upon release or decrease in the applied pressure, so that the pressure differential between the exit orifice and the ambient air is below a predetermined level.
  • This self-sealing is accomplished in the present invention by the construction of an exit flow channel having a width and length in accordance with the parametrical relationships exhibited by the fluid, the material from which the container is constructed (and particularly the elasticity of the section of the container which is adjacent the exit flow channel) , the desired exit flow rate of the contents, and the applied pressure differential.
  • the width and length of the channel there are many trade-offs involved in these parametrical relationships. For example, if the container material is very stiff and tends to maintain its elliptical shape, it will be very difficult to accomplish self- sealing. Likewise, if the contents are to be expelled at very low applied pressures, then the pressure at which self-sealing will be accomplished will likewise be low, thus making it more likely to leak.
  • the fluid parameters are very important in the self-sealing analysis.
  • the surface tension ( ⁇ ), the wetting angle ( ⁇ ) , and the viscosity ( ⁇ ) are all important fluid-related parameters.
  • the material from which the container is constructed also introduces an important parameter, which is the elasticity along the exit flow channel (k) . This elasticity is demonstrated by the material's tendency to restore its relaxed, essentially flat shape. Also, the length (L) and width (W) of the exit flow channel are important parameters, as discussed above.
  • the eccentricity of the ellipse becomes a key parameter in terms of which the flow behavior of the exit flow channel may be parametrized.
  • the applied pressure differential ( ⁇ p) between the exit orifice and the outside, ambient pressure is an essential parameter, together with the critical pressure differential ( ⁇ p c ) below which the channel accomplishes self-sealing.
  • the desired flow rate (Q) is an important parameter which must be considered in the design of the container and, in particular, its exit flow channel. Although other parameters may affect self-sealing, it is believed that the above parameters are most important in designing the width and length of a functioning self-seal. These parameters have not been adequately considered in previous flexible containers.
  • Embodied in the container of the present invention is the discovery that there are certain definite relationships exhibited by these specific parameters, which relationships themselves can be parametrized to facilitate the design of the exit flow channel, at least to the extent of its length and width. These relationships comprise ratios or combinations of the above parameters which simplify the design for the length and width of the exit flow channel. These combinations of parameters or "multiparameters" are briefly described below.
  • a “sealing parameter” involves the relationship between the specific fluid parameters and the deformable boundary (i.e.. the exit flow channel) in which it flows.
  • the sealing parameter also expresses, in one sense, the capillarity of the fluid in the exit flow channel and is most critical in determining the "crossover" point of the differential pressure where the channel ceases permitting fluid flow and seals itself.
  • the second multiparameter is the "pressure parameter,” which expresses the relationship between the critical pressure below which self-sealing occurs, and the elasticity of the material surrounding the exit flow channel (k) .
  • This parameter is typically given by the design or application for the container and is used to directly determine the width (W) .
  • the third multiparameter is the "flow rate parameter,” which expresses the desired flow rate in terms of several other parameters.
  • the method of the present invention involves the process of determining channel width and length, given specific data on critical pressure differential, package material and desired flow rate.
  • the mathematical relationships between the three multiparameters discussed above can be tabulated for easy reference.
  • the pressure parameter can be determined by the application for the container.
  • the channel width can be calculated using the sealing parameter, and the channel length can be calculated using the flow rate parameter.
  • the channel is the width and length of the channel which is relevant to its ability to self-seal, rather than the path that the channel follows.
  • the channel may be straight, or may have bends or curves, and self-sealing will still be achieved so long as the requisite length is present in the design.
  • Small, and rather standard, empirical corrections may be employed to take into consideration the effects of bends in the channel, but these are not considered essential to the mechanisms described herein.
  • FIG. 5 and 6 there is shown a flexible-sided container 10' embodying the principles of the present invention.
  • the container includes a fluid reservoir 12' and an exit flow channel 14' comprising an upwardly extending member 16' and a horizontally extending member 18'.
  • an exit flow channel 14' comprising an upwardly extending member 16' and a horizontally extending member 18'.
  • the container 10' is constructed from two flexible, deformable sheets 20',22' which are sealed together on all four sides to form a boundary seal 24'.
  • the sheets 20',22' may be comprised of a wide variety of materials, such as a low density polyethylene, or a foil laminate having aluminum vacuum deposited onto polyester.
  • a specific material is 12 ⁇ m PETP/metallic/70 ⁇ PE; however, the principles of the present invention will apply to many flexible materials.
  • the boundary seal 24' of the container may be accomplished in any suitable fashion; for example, by heat sealing. In an alternate embodiment, a single sheet of material may be folded to form one boundary at the fold.
  • the boundary seal 24' forms a reservoir 12' for containing fluids, which reservoir is pouch-shaped, as best illustrated in Figure 6.
  • the upper boundary seal 26' is wider than the side boundary seals 24' in order to accommodate the exit flow channel 14'.
  • the exit flow channel as shown in Figure 5, is for illustration purposes only, that the channel could be formed along the sides or bottom of the container, and that the container may take on various orientations in use. This is an important advantage of the present invention, which permits a wide flexibility in the design of the exit flow channel.
  • the exit flow channel 14' terminates at a distal end 28' in the boundary seal 24' of the container 10' near its outer edge.
  • the width (W) of the exit flow channel 10' is shown in the cross-sectional illustration of Figure 7. In its relaxed condition, the channel 14' is essentially that; although, it has been enlarged slightly in Figure 7 for illustration.
  • the length (L) of the channel 14' comprises the sum of the lengths of the vertical portion 16' and the horizontal portion 18', as shown in Figure 5.
  • the user simply tears or cuts the boundary seal 24' of the container 10' near the distal end 28' of the exit flow channel 14', as indicated by the dotted line 30', in order to form an exit orifice.
  • Manual or mechanical pressure is then applied to the container. Under pressure, the fluid is forced out of the reservoir 12' and through the exit flow channel 14', causing the channel 14' to enlarge and take on an approximately elliptical cross-section, as shown in Figure 8.
  • the applied pressure is released or reduced sufficiently below a given critical pressure ( ⁇ p c ) , the exit flow channel 14' automatically self-seals in order to prevent any further fluid flow.
  • the value of the sealing parameter (R) depends heavily on the characteristics of the fluid and its behavior in the exit flow channel 14'. This parameter is critical because it influences the crossover point along the pressure differential curve between sealing and fluid flow.
  • the fluid parameters encompassed within the sealing parameters are its surface tension ( ⁇ ) , and the wetting angle ( «) between the fluid and the innermost surface of the side of the container. It is often the surface tension which significantly affects the ability of the channel to self- seal. As pointed out above, the fluid should "wet" the surface such that « should be less than 90*.
  • Another component of the sealing parameter is the elasticity (k) of the material from which the container is constructed.
  • the exit flow channel 14' takes on an essentially elliptical cross-section, wherein the ellipse has a semi- major axis "a" and a semi-minor axis "b." Because of the fluid pressure in the channel 14', the channel 14' forms an ellipse by opening vertically, thus shortening its width horizontally by a small distance ⁇ x on each side, as illustrated in Figure 9. Thus, the new width W' of the exit flow channel equals 2a.
  • the purely geometrical relation between a, the shortening of the channel with ⁇ X, and the manufactured width of the channel (W) is:
  • the elasticity (or springiness) of the material is trying to restore the channel to its original width (W) .
  • This spring constant or elasticity parameter (k) governing this restoring force will generally be determined by measurement of specific materials in a given context.
  • the key sealing parameter (R) is given by the following dimensionless combination:
  • R can be determined because of the interrelationships between the dimensionless multiparameters disclosed herein and as discussed in more detail below. If R is known, and if ⁇ and « are a function of the fluid characteristics, and if k can be measured, then the desired width (W) of the channel can be determined.
  • the value of the wetting angle may be obtainable from published sources; although, depending upon the fluid and the material lining the reservoir of the container, the wetting angle may have to be measured. Although the wetting angle plays a limited role in determining the sealing parameter (R) (unless it is close to 0 • ) , it is essential that the fluid wets the liner of the pouch (i.e.. « is less than 90°). Pressure Parameter ( ⁇ p/k >
  • the pressure differential ( ⁇ p) for purposes of the present invention, is the difference between the pressure applied to the container (either manually or mechanically) in order to expel its contents and the ambient pressure surrounding the container (usually atmospheric pressure) . More specifically, this pressure differential is the difference between ambient pressure and the pressure at the inlet orifice where the reservoir 12' joins the channel 14'. Under some circumstances (for example, where the container is inverted) , the applied pressure may include a pressure head generated by the column of fluid above the exit flow channel. In other situations, the applied pressure may also include an internal pressure caused, for example, by a carbonated beverage. In either case, the principles of the present invention accommodate such additional pressures since the pressure parameter focuses on the pressure differential. In the case of a carbonated beverage, most of the increased pressure applied during filling may be equilibrated by airflow upon initial opening of the exit orifice 28'. The flow and sealing behavior of the container then follows the general outline for ordinary fluids as discussed herein.
  • the applied pressure will generally be known, since it is specified by the intended use of the container and its contents. For example, if the applied pressure is to be manually exerted, then it should fall within a convenient range which is suitable for human muscular ability. On the other hand, if the container and its contents are to be used in an industrial setting, a mechanical pressure much higher than manual pressure may be applied.
  • the specified pressure range should include maximum and average pressure differentials.
  • ⁇ p c critical sealing pressure
  • ⁇ p c Pave i- 3 an average anticipated usage pressure differential
  • ⁇ pmax the maximum pressure to which the pouch is subjected (for example, dictated by the pressure at which the boundary seals 24' would rupture).
  • the pressure differential ( ⁇ p) is a component of Poiseuille's Law, which is expressed as follows:
  • This equation expresses the flow rate (Q) in terms of various parameters, including ⁇ p and a and b, which are directly proportional to the cross-sectional area and circumference of the pressurized, elliptical exit flow channel.
  • This relationship suggests that the flow rate can be expressed in terms of the width (W) of the exit flow channel, thereby permitting the introduction of the relationship between the pressure differential, the width 5 (W) and the elasticity parameter (k) .
  • W can be expressed as a function of the perimeter of an ellipse as follows:
  • Equation (2) Solving Equation (8) for the critical value of m, where sealing occurs, yields a value for the final unknown parameter. This value for m, 5 when used in Equation (6) for ⁇ p/k, yields a specific value of ⁇ pc/k, which is the critical sealing pressure scaled by k.
  • Equation (6) and (P) The relationship expressed in this equation, (or, equivalently. Equations (6) and (P)) is, in turn, used to
  • ⁇ pc/k will usually be determined by the application. Because it is a ratio of specific parameters, there is built into this relationship quite a
  • a desirable flow rate can be specified as follows:
  • a desirable flow rate or a range of flow rates
  • the application will typically determine an average or optimal value for the flow rate, Q a ve and a maximum flow rate Q m a ⁇ «
  • This flow rate parameter can also accommodate a wide range of fluid viscosities, which may range from 0.01 poise for water (at 20 ⁇ C) to 15 poise for glycerin (again at 20 ⁇ C) .
  • the dimensionless flow rate parameter (q) can be expressed in terms of the cross-sectional geometry of the exit flow channel as follows:
  • Equation (10) can then be solved for the desired length (L) of the exit flow channel, at which the desired flow rate can be achieved.
  • Equations (6) , (8) and (12) express the three dimensionless factors (R, ⁇ p/k, and q) in terms of the modulus m of the elliptical approximation of the cross-section of the exit flow channel, and, more particularly, the convenient expression for m, m- ⁇ .
  • the corresponding flow rate parameter (q) is 0.0233. From these values of R and q, the width and length of the exit flow channel can be readily determined in accordance with Equations (2) and (10) , respectively.
  • Table 1 and the relationships for the sealing, pressure and flow rate parameters expressed above provide a unique process for determining the width and length of an exit flow channel which will automatically achieve self- sealing.
  • the first step of that process is to determine the context in which the container and its fluid contents will be utilized.
  • information on the viscosity ( ⁇ ) and surface tension ( ⁇ ) of the fluid at temperatures for which the container will be utilized should be gathered.
  • changes in temperature while the container is in use should not have a significant affect on the ability of the container to self- seal, since the relationships expressed above are not highly temperature dependent.
  • information on the desired material, design of the container, the intended audience, serving size and desired dispensing rate should be gathered.
  • Equation (2) all variables are now known except the width (W) for which the equation can be easily solved. This value thus yields the desirable width of the exit flow channel at which self- sealing is accomplished.
  • a new pressure parameter is now calculated, this time using ⁇ p ave , rather than ⁇ p c .
  • ⁇ p a ve/k yields a corresponding value of q a ve? where q a ve i- 3 the dimensionless average flow rate for the optimal container. This q a ve i- 3 determined by the table.
  • Solving Equation (10) for L yields:
  • width and length of the exit flow channel which are sufficient to accomplish self-sealing, can then be embodied in any conceptual design of the container and in any container or flow channel orientation.
  • width and length are independent of the path of the exit flow channel and other complex channel geometry.
  • Figures 10-12 depict just a few of the almost infinite number of container designs and exit flow channel paths that are possible. Many other designs are possible, depending upon the application.
  • Equation (2) the sealing parameter (R) is proportional to the width (W) of the exit flow channel, and is not related to the length (L) .
  • this concept and the specific relationship expressed in Equation (2) represents a significant advancement over the pouches of the prior art, which taught that the exit flow channel must follow a specific, usually circuitous path in order to self-seal.
  • Equation (13) the length of the exit flow channel of the present container cannot be independently designed, since the length is proportional to the width of the channel to the fourth power.
  • the length of the channel might be unreasonably short or long.
  • the length and width of the channel are dependent upon one another if both optimal conditions of the container of the present invention are to be met: (i) the desired average flow rate is achieved for the specified pressure range, and (ii) the exit flow channel self-seals automatically when the applied pressure falls below the specified pressure range.
  • the prior art has not considered both of these conditions simultaneously, as in the present analysis. It should be pointed out, in developing the present container design, that two states of fluid flow have been considered, i.e.. no flow, which occurs after self-sealing, and steady flow, when the fluid flow is fully developed.
  • the flexible container of the present invention presents a significant advancement over the prior art.
  • the present invention permits almost infinite flexibility in container orientation and exit flow channel path, while maintaining extremely low manufacturing costs.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Bag Frames (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un récipient à parois souples comportant une ouverture de distribution à ouverture par déchirure. Le problème associé à ces types de récipients, est que de la matière peut fuir dudit récipient, ou le contenu de ce dernier peut s'altérer. Un récipient tridimensionnel (10) définit un réservoir (12) de fluide. Une zone de transition conique (14) conduit à un canal d'écoulement de sortie (18), à travers une zone d'écoulement de sortie aplatie (16). Le canal d'écoulement de sortie (18) s'ouvre sous l'effet de la pression régnant dans ledit récipient, lorsque celui-ci est serré, et se ferme automatiquement du fait de la zone d'écoulement de sortie aplatie (16), lorsque les forces de serrage sont relâchées.
PCT/US1990/002862 1989-05-22 1990-05-22 Fermeture ou vanne a obturation automatique pour recipients tridimensionnels WO1990014283A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US35517689A 1989-05-22 1989-05-22
US355,176 1989-05-22

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO1990014283A1 true WO1990014283A1 (fr) 1990-11-29

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1990/002862 WO1990014283A1 (fr) 1989-05-22 1990-05-22 Fermeture ou vanne a obturation automatique pour recipients tridimensionnels

Country Status (2)

Country Link
AU (1) AU5734090A (fr)
WO (1) WO1990014283A1 (fr)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2371791A (en) * 2001-01-26 2002-08-07 Pige Sa A self-sealing sachet for packaging and dispensing liquid, gel or paste like products
US20140319174A1 (en) * 2004-02-19 2014-10-30 Pinar Holdings Llc Easy-to-use container

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3184121A (en) * 1963-08-01 1965-05-18 Ivers Lee Co Package with self sealing closure
US3791570A (en) * 1972-09-15 1974-02-12 A Hopkins Opening means for containers
US3825157A (en) * 1973-08-10 1974-07-23 A Herzig Automatic closure for containers

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3184121A (en) * 1963-08-01 1965-05-18 Ivers Lee Co Package with self sealing closure
US3791570A (en) * 1972-09-15 1974-02-12 A Hopkins Opening means for containers
US3825157A (en) * 1973-08-10 1974-07-23 A Herzig Automatic closure for containers

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2371791A (en) * 2001-01-26 2002-08-07 Pige Sa A self-sealing sachet for packaging and dispensing liquid, gel or paste like products
US20140319174A1 (en) * 2004-02-19 2014-10-30 Pinar Holdings Llc Easy-to-use container
US9527636B2 (en) * 2004-02-19 2016-12-27 Pinar Holdings Llc Easy-to-use container
US9914571B2 (en) 2004-02-19 2018-03-13 Pinar Holdings Llc Easy-to-use container

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU5734090A (en) 1990-12-18

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