WO2007060450A2

WO2007060450A2 - Bag in shell apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2007060450A2
Application number: PCT/GB2006/004401
Authority: WO
Inventors: John Stephenson
Original assignee: John Stephenson
Priority date: 2005-11-24
Filing date: 2006-11-24
Publication date: 2007-05-31
Also published as: GB0523904D0; WO2007060450A3

Abstract

A bag in shell apparatus comprising an outer shell (12) and a flexible liner. The outer shell (12) includes a plurality of case segments (20) and an attachment member (22) coupling the case segments together. The outer shell defines a cavity, and has at least one flexible liner assembly attachment member (29) . The flexible liner assembly comprises a cartridge assembly (40) having a collar (42) with an aperture (46) and a shell attachment assembly (48) . A bag assembly (50) has a liner and a spout (54) providing ingress to the liner. The spout (54) extends through the aperture of the collar (42) . The bag assembly is collapsed and positioned in abutment with the collar and retained by the tie member. The spout of the flexible liner is coupled to the flexible liner assembly attachment member. The collar and tie member are eliminated in certain embodiments.

Description

TITLE: BAG IN SHELL APPARATUS

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority from UK Application Number 0523904.1,

entitled "Bag-in-Shell (BIS)₅" filed November 24, 2005, the entire specification of which is

incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE [0002] 1. Field of the Disclosure

[0003 ] The disclosure relates in general to a container for holding flowable materials, and more particularly, to a bag in shell apparatus for holding flowable materials. Such

flowable materials may comprise materials, including, but not limited to liquids, gels, granules, pellets, capsules, sachets, chunks, crystals, flakes or powders. [0004] 2. Background Art

[0005] The use of bag in box packaging has been known in the art. Typically such bag in box packaging relies upon a rigid outer container and a flexible inner liner. The rigid outer

container typically comprises a corrugated container or a paperboard container of common multi-panel construction. The inner liner is placed within this rigid container, and flowable material is dispensed from within the liner through the outer rigid container. [0006] Certain advancements have been made to traditional bag in box containers and is embodied in a plurality of co-pending applications with common inventorsliip. Specifically, included is UK patent application number 0523232.7 entitled "Multiple (Double) Sleeve (Hybrid) Box or Carton for Bag-in-Box (BIB) Container," UK patent application number 0524286.2, entitled "BIB Assembly + Erection Machine," PCT/GB04/002609 entitled "Bag inBox," PCT/GB05/00570 entitled "Automatic Bag in Box Assembly and Contents Fill," PCT/GB2005/004313 entitled "Bag Cartridge + Anti Torque." The entire specification of each of the foregoing are incorporated by reference herein in their

entirety. These advancements have enhanced the operation of traditional bag in box

packaging.

[0007] It is an object to provide a bag in shell apparatus which includes certain advancements from bag in box packaging.

[0008] It is another obj ect to provide a bag in shell apparatus as an alternative to rigid

packaging and/or bag in box packaging, wherein benefits of rigid packaging can be combined

with advantages of bag in box packaging.

[0009] These objects as well as other objects of the present invention will become apparent in light of the present specification, claims, and drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0010] In one aspect, a bag in shell apparatus is disclosed as comprising an outer shell

and a flexible liner assembly. The outer shell has a plurality of case segments and an attachment member coupling the case segments together. The outer shell defines a cavity, and

has at least one flexible liner assembly attachment member. The flexible liner assembly

comprises a bag assembly having a liner and a spout providing ingress to the liner. The spout of the flexible liner is coupled to the flexible liner assembly attachment member.

[0011] hi one embodiment, the flexible liner assembly attachment member is formed from the cooperative operation of at least two of the plurality of case segments. [0012] hi another embodiment, the attachment member comprises a living hinge. The outer shell maybe articulated from a collapsed, and stackable configuration, to an articulated configuration with the cavity defined.

[0013] In yet another embodiment, the bag in shell apparatus comprises a plurality of flexible liner assembly attachment members. A flexible liner assembly corresponds to each of the plurality of flexible liner assembly attachment members.

[0014] In one such embodiment, each of the flexible liner assembly attachment members are formed through the cooperative operation of at least two of the plurality of case segments.

[0015] Bi one such embodiment, a plurality of flexible liner assembly attachment members are provided on a single case segment.

[0016] Preferably, an interface region is provided between case segments. The interface region provides at least a partial seal between the case segments.

[0017] In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus further comprises an access opening spaced apart from the flexible liner assembly attachment member. The access opening provides ingress to the cavity.

[0018] In another preferred embodiment, the outer shell further includes a handle

assembly. In one such embodiment, the outer shell is formed from cooperative association of

handle portions from at least two of the plurality of case segments.

[0019] In another preferred embodiment, the outer shell comprises a hemispherical configuration. Each of the plurality of case segments have a wedge shaped configuration. [0020] In another embodiment the bag in shell apparatus further includes at least one

of an ice pack and a hot pack positioned within the cavity of the outer shell. [0021 ] In another aspect, a bag in shell apparatus is disclosed as comprising an outer shell and a flexible liner. The outer shell includes a plurality of case segments and an attachment member coupling the case segments together. The outer shell defines a cavity, and has at least one flexible liner assembly attachment member. The flexible liner assembly comprises a cartridge assembly having a collar with an aperture and a shell attachment assembly. A bag assembly has a liner and a spout providing ingress to the liner. The spout extends through the aperture of the collar. The bag assembly is collapsed and positioned in abutment with the collar and retained by the tie member. The spout of the flexible liner is coupled to the flexible liner assembly attachment member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The invention will now be described with reference to the drawings wherein:

[0023] Figure 1 of the drawings is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the

bag in shell assembly;

[0024] Figure 2 of the drawings is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the bag

in shell assembly, showing, in particular, a plurality of outer shells in a stacked configuration, and showing, in particular, the method of assembly of a cartridge assembly with a case segment;

[0025] Figure 3 of the drawings is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, a cartridge assembly coupled with a case segment;

[0026] Figure 4 of the drawings is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the bag in shell assembly;

[0027] Figure 5 of the drawings is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, the attachment of a bag assembly to the outer shell;

[0028] Figure 6 of the drawings is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, the attachment of an alternate bag assembly to the outer shell;

[0029] Figure 7 of the drawings is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the bag in shell assembly;

[0030] Figure 8 of the drawings is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly;

[0031] Figure 9 of the drawings is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, an open outer shell;

[0032] Figure 10 of the drawings is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the

bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, the flexible liner assembly at the top of the

container; [0033] Figure 11 of the drawings is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the

bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, the flexible liner assembly at the bottom of the container with a dispensing hose;

[0034] Figure 12 of the drawings is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, the flexible liner assembly at the bottom of the container with a dispensing spigot;

[0035] Figure 13 of the drawings is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly;

[0036] Figure 14 of the drawings is aperspective view of a sixth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, schematically, the assembly of the bag assembly with the outer shell;

[0037] Figure 15 of the drawings is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, schematically, the insertion of a freezer pack;

[0038] Figure 16 of the drawings is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, schematically, the assembly thereof from a web of bag assemblies;

[0039] Figure 17 of the drawings is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, an open outer shell;

[0040] Figure 18 of the drawings is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, the outer shell upon closing thereof;

[0041 ] Figure 19 of the drawings is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of

the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, a plurality of outer shells, in a stacked and

open orientation; [0042] Figure 20 of the drawings is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, a schematic representation of the assembly of the outer shell thereof;

[0043] Figure 21 of the drawings is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of

the bag in shell assembly in an assembled and articulated configuration; [0044] Figure 22 of the drawings is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, a plurality of stacked assemblies;

[0045] Figure 23 of the drawings is aperspective view of aninth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, a plurality of outer shells and flexible liner

assemblies; and [0046] Figure 24 of the drawings is aperspective view of aninth embodiment of the bag in shell assembly, showing, in particular, the disassembly of one of the plurality of outer shells.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0047] While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms,

there is shown in the drawings and described herein in detail a specific embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the

principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiment illustrated.

[0048] It will be understood that like or analogous elements and/or components,

referred to herein, may be identified throughout the drawings by like reference characters. In addition, it will be understood that the drawings are merely schematic representations of the invention, and some of the components may have been distorted from actual scale for purposes of pictorial clarity.

[0049] Referring now to the drawings and in particular to Figure 1, bag in shell apparatus is shown at 10. The bag in shell apparatus comprises outer shell 12 and flexible liner assembly 14. The outer shell comprises a rigid member, such as a rigid plastic or composite material including case segments 20, attachment member 22, interface region 24 and handle assembly 26. While plastic or composite materials are contemplated, it is likewise contemplated that the outer shell may comprise a paperboard material which is molded or a fiber reinforced material (i.e., fiberglass), or a stamped metal material. Any number of different materials are contemplated for use. [0050] The case segments are shown in Figure 2 and 3 as comprising first case segment 30a and second case segment 30b. The two case segments are held together by attachment member 22 which, in the embodiment shown, comprises living hinge 32. In other embodiments, the attachment member may comprise a hinge member, adhesive tape, straps, rubber elements, hook and loop fasteners, slots and tabs, amongst others.

[0051 ] In the embodiment shown, the living hinge 32 extends along the entire bottom edge of the case segments. In the embodiment of Figures 4 through 6, the living hinge may

extend about an upstanding side edge. In other embodiments, such as shown in Figure 16, 17

and 20, the attachment member may comprise two discrete hinges in a spaced apart

configuration.

[0052] The case segments, when coupled form the outer shell and define cavity 33.

Various locking mechanism can be employed to facilitate the retention of the case segments in the articulated configuration, including hook and loop fasteners, locking assemblies, slot and tab devise, among others. Ingress to the cavity 33 is provided through flexible liner assembly attachment member 29. The case segments may include an interface region 24 extending therealong which includes seal 34. Seal 34 may provide a fluid tight barrier in certain embodiments. Ih other embodiments, the connection may be resistant to fluid and dust passage, but not a fluid tight barrier (i.e., the inner liner may be protected, without being fluid tight).

[0053] In certain embodiments, such as is shown in Figure 23 and 24, the case segments 20 may comprise six case segments each of which is an arcuate segments which

cooperate to form a hemispherical configuration. Each of the case segments are coupled to adjoining segments and have interfacing regions extending on either side thereof. [0054] In other embodiments, such as is shown in Figure 7, an access opening 28 may be provided which provides an alternate communication with at least aportion of cavity 33. In the embodiment of Figure 7, access opening 28 can provide ingress into cavity 33 for the insertion of, for example, ice 87. Of course, the size, shape and placement of the access opening can be varied without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0055] Flexible liner assembly attachment member 29 is configured on one of the

case segments so as to provide an opening to the cavity 33 for coupling of the flexible liner

assembly 14 thereto. The flexible liner assembly attachment member 29 includes features

which, as will be explained, engage and retain (releasably or otherwise) the flexible liner assembly 14. In certain embodiments, such as Figure 4 through 6, multiple flexible liner assembly attachment members 29 can be provided on a single case segment 20. [0056] In the embodiment of Figures 7 through 9, and 13 through 15, the flexible liner assembly attachment member 29 is shown as being formed in part by each of the case segments. In other embodiments, the entire flexible liner assembly attachment member may be contained on a single case segment, hi yet other embodiments, such as those of Figures 10 through 12, the position of the flexible liner assembly attachment member 29 can be varied along case segments. [0057] Flexible liner assembly 14 is shown in Figures 13 through 15 as comprising bag assembly 50. Bag assembly 50 includes liner 52, spout 54 and cap 56. Liner 52 may comprise a single or multiple ply polymer liner. The liner may comprise a unitary material, a

laminate or a co-extrusion. Additionally, metallic coatings, or other layers of material are contemplated for use in addition to polymer based materials. Spout 54 comprises a polymer material which is coupled to the liner and which provide fluid communication with the liner. The spout is preferably sealed to the liner through heat sealing, RF sealing, microwave sealing or some type of adhesive. The spout may include a plurality of flanges and/or threads. As such, a cap 56 may be provided. The cap 56 may include threads for engaging threads of the spout, or may comprise a press fit cap applied to the spout. [0058] In one embodiment, such as is shown in Figures 2 and 3, the flexible liner

assembly may comprise cartridge assembly 40. Cartridge assembly 40 includes collar 42, bag

assembly 50 and tie member 58. The bag assembly 50 is described above with respect to the embodiment of Figure 13-15. The collar 42 includes aperture 46 and shell attachment

assembly 48. The shell attachment assembly 48 is configured to engage (releasably or

permanently) the flexible liner assembly attachment member 29, through, for example, cooperative engagement, snaps, tabs and slots, other mating structures, fasteners, adhesives, etc. [0059] In such an embodiment, the liner is folded and collapsed so as to fit, generally within the footprint of the collar, although variations are contemplated. Tie member 58 can be used to maintain the liner in such a configuration. One such cartridge system is disclosed in co-pending, and above-described patent application entitled "Bag Cartridge + Aiiti Torque." The release of such a liner and the preparation of such a liner for filling is disclosed

in co-pending, and above-described patent application entitled "BIB Assembly + Erection Machine," as well as in the remaining above-identified applications.

[0060] In operation, the present bag in shell configuration is provided which enhances the storage and transport of rigid containers over the conventional rigid containers. For example, and with reference to Figure 2, a plurality of outer shells 12 can be provided in a fully collapsed and open configuration. Cartridge assemblies 40 can be provided and

sequentially inserted into the flexible liner assembly attachment member 29 so as to be secured to the outer shell.

[0061] Once assembled, the case segments can be articulated by rotating the segments about the attachment member. Additionally, the interface regions can be placed into an abutting relationship. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the handle 26 is formed when

the case segments are joined. Additional structures to retain the articulated configuration may

be positioned on either case segment or handle member, or elsewhere.

[0062] With specific reference to Figure 22, the assembled outer shells can be

configured so as to be stackable relative to each other. In the embodiment of Figures 19 through 22, the flexible liner assembly attachment member can be recessed so as to provide

access thereto even when the separate outer shells are stacked vertically. [0063] In the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5, bag assemblies are provided in lieu of collars. The spouts of the bag assembly are joined to the flexible liner assembly attachment member 29. With specific reference to Figure 6, a flexible liner having a plurality of separate compartments (defining separate cavities) can be formed and each of the plurality of spouts can be coupled to distinct flexible liner assembly attachment members 29. It is contemplated

that each of the liners may comprise a differently shaped and sized configuration.

Additionally, each liner may be coupled to other liners through adhesion, welding, etc. [0064] In the embodiment of Figures 8 and 9, a plurality of bag assemblies can be attached to a single outer shell. The bag assemblies can be positioned in a desired orientation on one of the case segments, and the second case segment can be articulated to form the flexible liner assembly attachment member 29 and to capture the spout 54. [0065] In the embodiment of Figures 10 through 12, the bag in shell apparatus can be coupled to a pair of straps 93 and worn in a manner wherein the bag in shell apparatus forms a backpack. With particular reference to Figure 11 , a dispensing tube 95 may be provided to provide access to the contents of the liner while the outer shell is on a user's back. [0066] In Hie embodiment of Figures 13 through 15, the outer shell can be configured into any number of different outer shapes, such as a flask, wherein the bag assembly is coupled thereto. Additionally, a provision can be made for the insertion of a freezer pack (or

hot pack) 62.

[0067] In the embodiment of Figures 16 through 18, a web of bag assemblies can be provided. Each bag assembly is sequentially separated from the web and sequentially coupled

to an outer shell 12.

[0068] with the embodiment of Figures 23 and 24, a plurality of arcuate outer shells are provided each having a separate flexible liner assembly attachment member and a separate bag assembly coupled thereto. The separate outer shell segments are shown as slices or wedges of a hemispherical outer shell. While each of the segments are shown to be

substantially uniform, it is contemplated that the various segments may each comprise a distinct and different shape.

[0069] Again, certain features and configurations shown in the Figures can be substituted in various of the embodiments. Additionally, various combinations of the foregoing features of separate figures and embodiments can be provided without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0070] The foregoing description merely explains and illustrates the invention and the invention is not limited thereto except insofar as the appended claims are so limited, as those skilled in the art who have the disclosure before them will be able to make modifications without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1 A bag in shell apparatus comprising:

- an outer shell having a plurality of case segments and an attachment member

coupling the case segments together, the outer shell defining a cavity, and having at least one

flexible liner assembly attachment member; and

- at least one flexible liner assembly comprising a bag assembly having a liner and a spout providing ingress to the liner,

- wherein the spout of the flexible liner is coupled to the flexible liner assembly attachment member.

2 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 1 wherein the flexible liner assembly attachment member is formed from the cooperative operation of at least two of the plurality of case

segments.

3 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 1 wherein the attachment member comprises a living hinge, and the outer shell may be articulated from a collapsed, and stackable configuration, to an articulated configuration with the cavity defined.

4 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 1 wherein the bag in shell apparatus comprises a plurality of flexible liner assembly attachment members, and a flexible liner assembly corresponding to each of the plurality of flexible liner assembly attachment members.

5 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 4 wherein each of the flexible liner assembly attachment members are formed through the cooperative operation of at least two of the

plurality of case segments.

6 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 4 wherein a plurality of flexible liner assembly attachment members are provided on a single case segment.

7 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an interface region between case segments, the interface region providing at least a partial seal between the case

segments.

8 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an access opening spaced apart from the flexible liner assembly attachment member, the access opening providing ingress to the cavity.

9 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 1 wherein the outer shell further includes ahandle assembly.

10 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 9 wherein the outer shell is formed from cooperative association of handle portions from at least two of the plurality of case segments.

11 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 1 wherein the outer shell comprises a hemispherical configuration and wherein each of the plurality of case segments have a wedge shaped configuration. 12 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 1 further including at least one of an ice pack and a hot pack positioned within the cavity of the outer shell.

13 A bag in shell apparatus comprising:

- an outer shell having a plurality of case segments and an attachment member coupling the case segments together, the outer shell defining a cavity, and having at least one flexible liner assembly attachment member;

- at least one flexible liner assembly comprising a cartridge assembly having a collar with an aperture and a shell attachment assembly, a bag assembly having a liner and a spout providing ingress to the liner, wherein the spout extends through the aperture of the collar, and wherein the bag assembly is collapsed and positioned in abutment with the collar and retained by the tie member; and

14 The bag in shell app aratus of claim 13 wherein the flexible liner assembly attachment member is formed from the cooperative operation of at least two of the plurality of case segments.

15 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 13 wherein the attachment member comprises a living hinge and the outer shell may be articulated from a collapsed, and stackable configuration, to an articulated configuration with the cavity defined. 16 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 13 wherein the bag in shell apparatus comprises a

plurality of flexible liner assembly attachment members, and a flexible liner assembly

corresponding to each of the plurality of flexible liner assembly attachment members.

17 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 16 wherein each of the flexible liner assembly attachment members are formed through the cooperative operation of at least two of the plurality of case segments.

18 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 16 wherein a plurality of flexible liner assembly attachment members are provided on a single case segment.

19 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 13 further comprising an interface region between case segments, the interface region providing at least a partial seal between the case segments.

20 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 13 further comprising an access opening spaced apart from the flexible liner assembly attachment member, the access opening providing ingress to the cavity.

21 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 13 wherein the outer shell further includes a handle assembly. 22 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 21 wherein the outer shell is formed from cooperative association of handle portions from at least two of the plurality of case segments.

23 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 13 wherein the outer shell comprises a hemispherical configuration and wherein each of the plurality of case segments have a wedge

shaped configuration.

24 The bag in shell apparatus of claim 1 further including at least one of an ice pack and a hot pack positioned within the cavity of the outer shell.