WO2012109693A1 - Transport de l'eau en vrac - Google Patents

Transport de l'eau en vrac Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2012109693A1
WO2012109693A1 PCT/AU2011/000170 AU2011000170W WO2012109693A1 WO 2012109693 A1 WO2012109693 A1 WO 2012109693A1 AU 2011000170 W AU2011000170 W AU 2011000170W WO 2012109693 A1 WO2012109693 A1 WO 2012109693A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
container
bladder
water
planar support
outlet
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2011/000170
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Martin ANTON
Original Assignee
Marmalo Pty Ltd
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 Marmalo Pty Ltd filed Critical Marmalo Pty Ltd
Priority to PCT/AU2011/000170 priority Critical patent/WO2012109693A1/fr
Publication of WO2012109693A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012109693A1/fr

Links

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
    • B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
    • B65D77/04—Articles or materials enclosed in two or more containers disposed one within another
    • B65D77/06—Liquids or semi-liquids or other materials or articles enclosed in flexible containers disposed within rigid containers
    • B65D77/061—Liquids or semi-liquids or other materials or articles enclosed in flexible containers disposed within rigid containers the containers being mounted on a pallet

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for transporting fluids in particularly but not only water.
  • bladder type containers are generally very large.
  • One particular system marketed under the trademark “Flexitank” involves the use of an extremely large bladder housed in a normal ISO shipping container. These containers hold twenty thousand litre of water and can be shipped via normal container handling facilities.
  • this system similarly requires large rigid structures to contain the large internal pressures produced by such quantities of water. Such a large volume of water can also cause difficulties in transportation and may require baffles or similar mechanisms to maintain stability during transport. Also, since the large bladder type containers are intended for rapid transfer at the destination, they are generally produced from structurally sound but oxygen permeable bladders. Storage should not be for more than a few days or weeks. Long term storage is simply not possible. Further, if a leak occurs in such large bladders, massive quantities of fluid can be lost
  • the present invention provides a container for water or a similar fluid, said container comprising a bladder for receiving water or the like, surrounded by a self-supporting frame, and adapted to be mounted on a planar support member, said container being sized such that when placed in multiple container array an array with said planar support elements being placed side by side, at least one wall of said container abuts adjacent container and wherein at least one wall of said container is recessed from the periphery of said planar support member such that when abutted against each other, a clearance exists between said wall and an adjacent container.
  • the present invention also provides a system and method of transporting water using the aforementioned container.
  • each container includes an outlet for dispensing the contents of the bladder, said outlet being recessed inwardly from the periphery of planar support element.
  • the self-supporting frame of the container comprises peripheral walls adapted to be substantially co -planar with the periphery of said planar support element, and at least one intermediate wall extending between and connecting adjacent peripheral walls, said intermediate wall being recessed inwardly from said periphery of the planar support member.
  • the container is substantially octagonal in cross section with four peripheral walls and four intermediate walls connecting the peripheral walls.
  • the outlet for dispensing the contents of the bladder is provided on one of the intermediate walls.
  • the arrangement and structure of the container and planar support member provides a safe and reliable mechanism for transporting and storing water.
  • the recessing or "offsetting" of the outlet device from the peripheral edges of the planar support member e.g. pallet protects and shields the outlet from any accidental damage. This allows for transport of multiple containers in a multiple container array since a clearance exists between the multiple containers, the outlet being positioned in such a clearance.
  • the outlet device is recessed inwardly from the peripheral edges of the planar support element thereby avoiding damage from lifting or moving equipment.
  • the prior art systems have an outlet on the outermost exterior side or periphery of the pallet since this allows easy and rapid evacuation of the contents. While such an conventional mechanism does have certain advantages, it is not ideal for transport in a multiple array system since, at least with bladders, the outlet is then likely to be damaged by abutting adjacent containers or transport apparatus. Further even in a single container having the outlet on the outer most side can lead to damage from lifting, knocking, etc.
  • the bladder of the container is produced from a triple oxygen barrier bag.
  • a particularly preferred bag is produced from "2-Pure” packaging produced by Scholle Packaging. This not only provides excellent protection during transport, it allows the container to be in a "ready to drink” format upon arrival at its destination with safe reliable hygienic storage of the potable water or other fluid in the container for extended periods of time e.g. up to several years.
  • the present invention provides a system for bulk transport of water which can be instantly used at its destination in a "ready to drink” format without the need for transfer to an additional storage vessel.
  • the water can be stored in the inventive container for several months or more without spoilage or contamination.
  • This "ready to drink” format is unlike conventional systems which generally require the addition of outlet devices, and transfer/use of the water within a short period of time.
  • the inventive arrangement provided by the present system allows safe and reliable bulk transfer of the water as well as storage thereby providing a significant advance over the prior art.
  • the present invention provide a system of bulk transport of water which involves a number of "compartments” or “units” which can be transported in a normal ISO transportable container but can be used and opened separately thereby avoiding contamination or spoilage of the water.
  • the outer framework or frame of the container only need be sufficiently strong to withstand stacking pressure and internal pressure from the water in conjunction with the bladder. It is not necessary for the outer container to be structurally rigid or be able to withstand the pressure of the contained liquid in the absence of the inner bladder.
  • each container/pallet system allows the connection to be already applied to each container with a clearance existing between abutting units to thereby avoid puncture or damage to the units.
  • the size of the container also allows rotation on the planar support element such that if necessary the outlet can be adjacent the peripheral edge of the pallet to thereby permit easy and rapid dumping of the components to a position below the container/pallet.
  • the present water transport system and apparatus provides significant advantages over the prior art both in a multiply unit/stacked arrangement that also in the single or naked arrangement. Additional advantages and features of the present invention will also be discussed below.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a container in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of containers for water transport in a side by side stacked array
  • Figure 3 is an exploded view of a planar support element for use with the present inventive container.
  • Figure 4 is an exploded view of the various components which make up the outer form work or frame of the container.
  • Figure 5 shows a partially constructed view of the container having a water proof sheet attached and placed on the planar support element
  • Figure 6 is a perspective view of a bladder or cassette and placement of the cassette in the partially constructed container in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 7 is a perspective view of the container strapped to the planar support element in its penultimate configuration prior to final packaging, in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention.
  • the present invention provides an innovative and cost effective way to supply bulk water e.g. drinking water to remote locations all over Australia and the world.
  • the transport system according to the present invention provides a container 10 shown in figure 1 adapted to be supported on a planar support element 20, in this case a timber frame or pallet
  • the container 10 is primarily octagonal shaped. It has four peripheral walls 30 which extend substantially co -planar with the peripheral edges of the planar support element 20. Connecting these peripheral walls are intermediate walls 35 which are at an angle to the peripheral walls 30 and are recessed from the periphery of planar support element 20. In essence the vertical wall of the container is made up by an alternating set of peripheral walls 30 and intermediate walls 35. Each intermediate wall extends from one side of the planar support element 20 to the adjacent side.
  • an outlet 70 is provided on one of the intermediate walls 35. It is this arrangement which provides significant advantages over the prior art. By placing the outlet 70 on the recessed intermediate wall 35 it is in a "protected” position. In this protected or “offset” position there is substantial reduction in exposure of the container and particularly its outlet to damage. For example, the aforementioned arrangement permits the container to be moved or lifted with a forklift or other lifting apparatus without fear of damaging the outlet and subsequent puncturing of the bladder and its contents.
  • the arrangement of the container on the planar support element allows transport of multiple containers in a side by side array 100.
  • Such an array 100 provides a clearance 80 between abutting containers with the outlet hose 70 safely contained therein.
  • the abutment of the containers 10 at their peripheral walls provides structural integrity and stability of the container array 100.
  • the containers may also be stacked one on top of another.
  • Figure 2 shows a typical array for shipping twenty containers, each having a volume of one thousand litres. Such an array is fitted within a normal shipping container for transport in Australia or overseas. This permits reliable and safe transportation of a total of twenty thousand litres of fluid e.g. drinking water.
  • each container 100 can be simply lifted with its pallet 20 from its array and immediately used.
  • the container is provided in a "ready to drink” format immediately upon reaching its final destination.
  • the bladder is preferably constructed from a triple oxygen barrier material which, in conjunction other elements of the container 10, serve to provide safe hygienic storage of the fluid e.g. water, in the container for at least 2 years.
  • the applicant has found to date that in fact drinking water may be stored in the aforementioned container without spoilage or tainting for up around 26 months. Further increases are expected as testing continues.
  • the present invention not only provides a transport container but also a storage and use container for drinking water or the like. Unlike conventional transport systems it is not necessary for the contents to be immediately transferred to a subsequent storage vessel for later use. Further details of the present invention will now be explained with reference to figures 3-7 which show how the container is constructed and filled. It will be understood that, however, this only a preferred embodiment and other materials, steps may be incorporated from this process.
  • the present invention provides a container, which in its broadest form comprises two components namely an inner water impermeable flexible bladder and a frame work to support the filled bladder.
  • the frame is a cardboard box however other material may be used.
  • the advantage of the cardboard material is firstly it is cheap, secondly it is light and easily transported in either flat pack or expanded arrangements and lastly it is recyclable.
  • additional water impermeable layers may be provided internally and externally of the container to increase its water impermeability and resistance to puncture.
  • transporting the water or similar fluid by way of a container array 100 reduces the possibility of significant fluid loss.
  • a protective layer 21 is applied to the top of the timber pallet.
  • a cardboard sheet forms such a protective layer.
  • a waterproofing membrane 22 is then provided over the cardboard sheet to assist in waterproofing both the cardboard sheet 21 and timber pallet 20.
  • Figure 4 shows the outer formwork or frame of the container.
  • the outer form or frame of the container 10 is provided by cardboard walls 30, 35 and two lids 36, 37 for the top and base respectively.
  • the base lid 37 is firstly placed over the wall structure 30, 35.
  • the container 10 is essentially octagonal in cross section.
  • the wall structure is provided by four peripheral walls 30 and four intermediate walls 35.
  • the base lid 37 is then attached to the walls structure.
  • UV- stabilised waterproof sheet 90 is then provided over the cardboard frame and the entire unit is inverted and then placed onto the timber pallet.
  • the waterproofing cover generally measures around 1850mm x 1245mm x 1095mm.
  • the open ends and edges of the waterproof sheet 90 are then folded into the walls 30, 35 of the cardboard frame and preferably glued to hold them in place.
  • An aperture 50 can be provided in the cardboard frame for an outlet or alternatively one can be cut into the cardboard frame at this time.
  • the outlet be positioned on the intermediate wall and the intermediate wall being positioned as shown in the figures. In this position the outlet is recessed from the periphery of the planar support element 20.
  • the width of the container matches almost perfectly the width of the planar support element such that the peripheral walls 20 extend upwardly from the edges of the planar support element 20. This permits the wall to wall contact of the containers when they are placed in the container array 100 shown in figure 2.
  • a bladder or cassette 60 is then placed in the cardboard frame.
  • the outlet or the bladder should of course be positioned to mate with the outlet 50 formed in the intermediate wall 35 as discussed above. It is extremely important at this time that the outlet hole should not be positioned in a way that directly faces any of the four peripheral edges of the pallet.
  • the outlet 50 should only be positioned in one of the offset or intermediate walls 35, of the container.
  • a specially customised octagonal shaped cassette 60 containing a triple oxygen barrier water bag or liner is then positioned into the container.
  • This cassette is essentially a planar support member or template 62 with the bladder 63 attached. This allows appropriate positioning of the bladder 63 in the container.
  • Use of the cassette 60 is not essential to the present invention and a simple bladder could be used. However as mentioned above the use of the cassette 60 allows easier positioning of the bladder inside the container.
  • the cassette may be marked such that there is easy alignment of the cassette and bladder outlet with the aperture 50 formed in the intermediate walls 35 of the cardboard container frame.
  • the internal bladder is preferably produced from Scholle Packaging "2-Pure" material which to date has shown excellent storage performance characteristics while preventing spoiling or tainting of water for at least up to two years.
  • the bladder is preferably provided with a reflective outer surface, eg. silver covering, which assists in keeping the internal contents cool.
  • the bladder cassette 60 Once the bladder cassette 60 is in position, its centrally located inlet port is connected with a fluid supply pipeline and filling of the bladder is commenced. As the bladder is filled, the bladder outlet will pass through the aperture 50 formed in the container frame. Once such an outlet passes through the container frame it should be connected to appropriate valve mechanisms. In a preferred embodiment, the applicants attach the outlet to a ball valve produced Hansen Products (New Zealand) Limited. It is preferred but not essential that the fitting of the outlet equipment such as the Hansen ball valve takes place simultaneously with filling of the bladder.
  • the inlet port to the bladder is closed and sealed the top lid 36 of the container placed in position over the bladder and pressed down securely to fit in place.
  • strapping 110 may now be applied to the container to hold the shape of the container and maintain its contact with the pallet.
  • four straps crossing over the top of the container are used, as shown in figure 7. These securely locate the container on the planar support element or pallet 20.
  • a further protective cardboard sheet may be placed on top of the strapped container.
  • a further plastic water proof hood (not shown) is then placed over the container if desired. This hood preferably terminates just short of the outlet 50 and may be held in place by additional waste band straps 120 which run horizontally around the container.
  • the additional waterproof or protective cover is placed over the container, and the horizontal strapping 120 is added, additional stretch wrapping or other material can be applied to the outer surface as desired.
  • the cardboard frame or container is covered with further plastic sheeting identifying the product and manufacturer and still a further clear protective plastic is provided over the entire unit, to give a smooth seamless appearance.
  • the resultant container unit as shown in Figure 1 provides a safe, reliable, robust and protective unit for transport of water.
  • a simple brightly coloured cable tie can be provided adjacent the ball valve outlet to prevent accidental opening in transit. This can simply be cut and used to meter out the contents of the container as required.
  • the small coil hose or hose 70 attached to the outlet may be secured against intermediate wall 35 by a cable tie or similar.
  • a stop cock may be positioned on the end of the hose to keep the free end clean from ingress of pests or the like.
  • the "transport” container of the present invention can also be used as a “storage” container at its destination.
  • the present inventive arrangement provides water in a "ready to drink” format unlike conventional systems.
  • the container already has a controllable outlet and does not require “spearing” or penetration of the bladder to gain access to the container's contents.
  • use of the intermediate recessed wall 35 or "offsetting" of the outlet equipment from the periphery of the supporting planar structure, eg. pallet prevents damage to the outlet equipment and the bladder and allows for easy transportation and stacking of the containers. Indeed, simple lifting by a normal forklift is much easier as there is no possibility of damage to the outlet since this does not extend past the periphery of the pallet.
  • Pre-existing rigid container systems have used outlets which are recessed into a wall, however this requires complex moulding equipment and are therefore not suitable for bladder systems, particularly those over 100 litres, preferably over 250 litres, more preferably over 500 litres, even more preferably over 750 litres and most preferably 1,000 litres or more.
  • the aforementioned wrapping of the container also serves as a tamper- evident/security feature.
  • the container itself can be collapsed thereby avoiding the need for large storage space in use.
  • the bladder should in no circumstances be re-used.
  • the device is produced such that 98% is recyclable and 2% is reusable.
  • the fittings etc from the outlet for example are perfectly reusable once they have been cleaned.
  • the cardboard frame can of course be recycled.
  • all plastic wraps used are UV stabilised and last for a minimum of 2 years before they begin to degrade or break down which equates with the prolonged storage ability of the inventive container.
  • the container can be used in a "one way" transportation arrangement. This permits the container to be destroyed or partially recycled at its destination thereby avoiding the need for return transport trucks, trains etc collect empty containers. Given the environmentally friendly nature of the packaging, the carbon footprint and disposal of the material is not great.
  • the present invention provides for safe and reliable fluids particular drinking water in containers well over a 100 litres and preferably over 250 litres, more preferably over 500 litres, even more preferably over 750 litres and most preferably 1000 litres or more.
  • the device can be used to provide storage and supply of drinking water unlike conventional bladder or rigid transport systems.
  • the present inventive container is entirely suitable for fluids other than potable drinking water. Milk and wine for instance are envisaged as suitable fluids for transportation.
  • the present inventive container has an inlet port and an outlet.
  • the inlet port is also the outlet.
  • pumping systems must be used to withdraw the liquid upwardly through the inlet which is positioned at the top of the bladder.
  • the supporting frame must be dismantled or cut as the bladder is emptied to allow the inlet port and piping to be constantly repositioned as the bladder is emptied. This is not only time consuming but quite costly.
  • the present invention overcomes these difficulties of the prior art by providing an outlet at the lower end of the container such that the contents of the container can be instantly dispensed without the need for reattachment to another inlet.
  • the reattachment of inlets brings about significant possibility of fluid contamination.
  • the container according to the present invention has an inlet which is immediately sealed after the bladder is filled. This not only provides a tamper evident measure but in most circumstances prevents any reuse of the bladder. As mentioned above, it is strongly recommended that the bladder not be reused due to hygiene and safety concerns.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Packages (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système de conteneur (10) et un procédé permettant le transport de l'eau ou analogue. Le conteneur comprend une structure autoportante (30, 35) conçue pour être portée sur un élément porteur planaire (20). Une poche est installée dans la structure autoportante destinée à contenir de l'eau ou analogue. Une sortie (70) est prévue sur une paroi intermédiaire (35) évidée vers l'intérieur à partir de la périphérie de l'élément porteur planaire. Cet évidement à partir de la périphérie de l'élément porteur planaire (20) réduit le risque d'endommagement de la sortie ou, lorsqu'il est aménagé dans un réseau de transport, prévoit un jeu entre conteneurs se jouxtant.
PCT/AU2011/000170 2011-02-17 2011-02-17 Transport de l'eau en vrac WO2012109693A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/AU2011/000170 WO2012109693A1 (fr) 2011-02-17 2011-02-17 Transport de l'eau en vrac

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
PCT/AU2011/000170 WO2012109693A1 (fr) 2011-02-17 2011-02-17 Transport de l'eau en vrac

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2012109693A1 true WO2012109693A1 (fr) 2012-08-23

Family

ID=46671859

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/AU2011/000170 WO2012109693A1 (fr) 2011-02-17 2011-02-17 Transport de l'eau en vrac

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2012109693A1 (fr)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160159503A1 (en) * 2014-12-09 2016-06-09 Smurfit Kappa Bates LLC Method of securing bulk flowable goods in paperboard container

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO1988010214A1 (fr) * 1987-06-24 1988-12-29 Transpak Pty. Ltd. Emballage ameliore
US4850506A (en) * 1986-12-17 1989-07-25 Connelly Containers, Inc. Container for fluent material
US5803346A (en) * 1996-05-15 1998-09-08 Longview Fibre Company Paperboard container for liquids including an improved structure to prevent fitment rotation
US6000549A (en) * 1998-08-11 1999-12-14 Paper Systems, Inc. Bulk container
US6834792B1 (en) * 2002-10-16 2004-12-28 Plastic Systems, Inc. Interlocking container
US20050196080A1 (en) * 1999-12-09 2005-09-08 Stone Michael G. Octagon shaped stackable flexible intermediate bulk container and method of manufacture
WO2006052817A2 (fr) * 2004-11-06 2006-05-18 Scholle Corporation Cubitainer impermeable a l'oxygene et procede de realisation

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4850506A (en) * 1986-12-17 1989-07-25 Connelly Containers, Inc. Container for fluent material
WO1988010214A1 (fr) * 1987-06-24 1988-12-29 Transpak Pty. Ltd. Emballage ameliore
US5803346A (en) * 1996-05-15 1998-09-08 Longview Fibre Company Paperboard container for liquids including an improved structure to prevent fitment rotation
US6000549A (en) * 1998-08-11 1999-12-14 Paper Systems, Inc. Bulk container
US20050196080A1 (en) * 1999-12-09 2005-09-08 Stone Michael G. Octagon shaped stackable flexible intermediate bulk container and method of manufacture
US6834792B1 (en) * 2002-10-16 2004-12-28 Plastic Systems, Inc. Interlocking container
WO2006052817A2 (fr) * 2004-11-06 2006-05-18 Scholle Corporation Cubitainer impermeable a l'oxygene et procede de realisation

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160159503A1 (en) * 2014-12-09 2016-06-09 Smurfit Kappa Bates LLC Method of securing bulk flowable goods in paperboard container

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US4491247A (en) System, apparatus, and method of dispensing a liquid from a semi-bulk disposable container
US7958995B2 (en) Bag-in-bag container for bulk handling of fluids
US7337908B2 (en) Container for bulk handling of fluids
US20110315689A1 (en) Bulk Packaging Container
AU655411B2 (en) Beverage containers and methods of dispensing beverages
RU2705614C1 (ru) Паллетный контейнер
JPS5830988A (ja) やや大形容器から液体を分配する方法及び装置
US11072490B2 (en) Packaging assembly for the transport and storing of roasted coffee and method for packaging roasted coffee beans
WO2007055692A1 (fr) Conteneur pour la manipulation en vrac de fluides
WO2007029011A1 (fr) Récipient à fluide
WO2012109693A1 (fr) Transport de l'eau en vrac
US11530081B2 (en) Plastic liner with inner lining
AU2011285472A1 (en) Bulk transportation of water
US8636453B2 (en) Inflatable dunnage
MX2013005190A (es) Método y aparato para el llenado aséptico del producto alimenticio.
MX2013005189A (es) Método y aparato para la manipulación de producto alimenticio esterilizado.
EA023438B1 (ru) Составной контейнер
GB2270124A (en) Beverage containers and methods of dispensing beverages
US20080110928A1 (en) Container for fluids, in particular liquids, and a method of making a container
US20100187141A1 (en) Bulk container
WO2006123698A1 (fr) Sac interne pour conteneur réservoir, procédé de fabrication idoine, et procédé d’installation dudit sac
JPH049353Y2 (fr)
CA2653873A1 (fr) Conteneur en vrac
CZ30618U1 (cs) Obal na nápoj
ITMI20091937A1 (it) Contenitore per il trasporto e la distribuzione all'ingrosso di bevande o altri liquidi

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 11858474

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 11858474

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1