WO2015197913A1

WO2015197913A1 - Multi-compartment package and method for filing compartments of a multi-compartment package with components

Info

Publication number: WO2015197913A1
Application number: PCT/FI2015/050440
Authority: WO
Inventors: Markku Hokkanen
Original assignee: Markku Hokkanen
Priority date: 2014-06-24
Filing date: 2015-06-16
Publication date: 2015-12-30

Abstract

The present invention concerns a flexible multi-compartment package (1) comprising a main package inner cavity (2), which is divided into at least two separated compartments (3, 4) for storing at least a first component (5) and a second component (6), and wherein two adjacent compartments are separated by a first reclosable locking mechanism (7) and a second reclosable locking mechanism (8), and an interconnecting section (9) is arranged between the first and second reclosable locking mechanisms (7, 8). The invention further concerns a method for filling a compartment of a flexible multi-compartment package (1).

Description

MULTI-COMPARTMENT PACKAGE AND METHOD FOR FILLING COMPARTMENTS OF A MULTI-COMPARTMENT PACKAGE WITH

COMPONENTS

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

[0001] The present invention relates to a multi- compartment package. The invention in particular relates to a flexible multi-compartment package, wherein components in the compartments can be stored separately and can be mixed with each other at the time of use and before the package is opened. Additionally, the present invention relates to a method for filling compartments of a multi-compartment package with components.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:

[0002] Different multi-compartment packages are known by means of which components can be stored and/or transported separated from each other. Some multi-compartment packages also allow mixing of the components with each other at the time of use and before the package is opened or the mixture is dispensed. The packages typically include a breakable seal between two adjacent compartments. On the other side also different seals for plastic bags are known by means of which an open end of the bag can be releasably closed.

[0003] Document EP 1350739 A2, for example, discloses a package for storing and dispensing measured amounts of mixed fluid products. The package comprises a first section having at least one compartment with at least a first fluid product stored in said compartment and a second section separated from said first section by a breakable seal. Said second section is storing a second fluid product to be mixed with said first fluid product, wherein said fluid products can move through said breakable seal and mix upon compression of said first section. The package further comprises a sealed port defined in said package so that said mixed fluid products can be dispensed therefrom. [0004] Document US 2012/0006702 Al further describes a flexible package having a main package inner cavity compartment and a segregated secondary compartment. The main package generally includes a plurality of outer panel portions. These panel portions can include a front panel portion, a back panel portion, and a bottom panel portion. A frangible longitudinal seal portion is provided such that breaching of the frangible longitudinal seal portion facilitates communication between the inner cavity and the secondary compartment.

[0005] Furthermore, document EP 0594449 Al teaches a multicompartment flexible package for filling with products which are to be stored separately from each other. A multi-compartment package made from flexible thermoplastic material heat sealed at the peripheral edges is provided. The compartments are formed by rupturable partition strips heat sealed in place between the sheets of thermoplastic material forming the package. The partition strips are comprised of at least one layer of heat sealable material which is different from the thermoplastic material and which can be ruptured under pressure allowing the products in the compartments to mix.

[0006] Document US 3,416,199 discloses a seal for releasably closing an open end of a plastic bag. The seal includes elongated male and female elements formed along adjacent surfaces of the open end of the bag. The two elements may be pressed into engaging relation with one another along the lengths thereof to close the open end of the bag and then may be pulled apart to disengage the two elements to again open the end of the bag.

[0007] Additionally, document US 5,638,587 describes a string zipper for use in the manufacture of material for reclosable plastic bags. The string zipper includes a first profile and a complementary mating profile which, when interlocked and properly attached to the bag walls render the bag easy to open from the outside and hard to open from the inside.

[0008] Document US 2003/0103692 Al discloses a multi-compartment reclosable bag that includes closures that effectively separate the compartments' contents and reduces accidental mixing. The reclosable bag includes first and second panels joined along their side edges. An upper closure comprises a male profile having opposing first and second barbs. An intermediate closure is positioned between the upper closure and a bottom edge of the bag. The intermediate closure comprises a male profile having opposing third and fourth barbs. The first barb is oriented downwardly and the third barb is oriented upwardly for reducing accidental opening of the closures from within the compartment. Two adjacent compartments cannot be filled under high pressure with components due to the orientation of the barbs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

[0009] An object of certain embodiments of the present invention is to provide a multi-compartment package. A further object of certain embodiments of the present invention is to provide a multi-compartment package, wherein components can be stored separately in the compartments and can be mixed with each other at the time of use and before the package is opened or the mixed components are dispensed. Additionally, a further object of certain embodiments of the present invention is to provide a method for filling compartments of a multi-compartment package with components.

[0010] These and other objects are achieved by embodiments of the present invention, as hereinafter described and claimed. According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a flexible multi-compartment package comprising a main package inner cavity, which is divided into at least two separated compartments for storing at least a first component and a second component, and wherein two adjacent compartments are separated by a first reclosable locking mechanism and a second reclosable locking mechanism, and an interconnecting section is arranged between the first and second reclosable locking mechanisms.

[0011] The first reclosable locking mechanism is configured to seal a first compartment tightly. The first reclosable locking mechanism is further configured such that a greater force is required to open the first reclosable locking mechanism from within the first compartment than from without. The second reclosable locking mechanism is also configured to seal a second compartment tightly. The second reclosable locking mechanism is further also configured such that a greater force is required to open the second reclosable locking mechanism from within the second compartment than from without.

[0012] According to an embodiment, the multi-compartment package includes at least one nozzle or nipple through which flowable material can be dispensed. [0013] According to another embodiment, the flexible multi-compartment package is further comprising a first panel including an inner first panel surface, an outer first panel surface, first panel longitudinal edge portions, a first panel top portion, and a first panel bottom portion, and a second panel including an inner second panel surface, an outer second panel surface, second panel longitudinal edge portions, a second panel top portion, and a second panel bottom portion, and wherein the first panel and the second panel form the main package inner cavity.

[0014] According to an embodiment, an opening handle is attached to the outer first panel surface and another opening handle is attached to the outer second panel surface. The opening handles are preferably attached to the package between the first reclosable locking mechanism and the second reclosable locking mechanism.

[0015] According to an embodiment, at least one of the compartments is capable of holding a liquid and at least one of the compartments is capable of holding a powder or flour.

[0016] In an embodiment, the volume of at least one compartment, which is to be filled with a component, is depending on the volume of at least another compartment, which is to be filled with another component.

[0017] In another embodiment, the multi-compartment package is configured to be heated in boiling water, an oven, or an microwave stove. At least one of the compartments may be perforated. According to an embodiment, at least one of the first reclosable locking mechanism and the second reclosable locking mechanism is further configured to open at a predetermined temperature of a stored component. Furthermore, the package may include at least one folding which is configured to unfold with increasing pressure in a compartment. [0018] According to an embodiment, at least one of the first reclosable locking mechanism and the second reclosable locking mechanism includes elongated male and female profiles formed along adjacent inner panel surfaces of the package. According to another embodiment, at least one of the first reclosable locking mechanism and the second reclosable locking mechanism includes a zipper. According to a certain embodiment, at least one of the first reclosable locking mechanism and the second reclosable locking mechanism includes at least two closures.

[0019] According to an aspect of the invention, the invention also concerns a method for filling compartments of a multi-compartment package according to any one of claims 1-19, the method comprising the steps of:

- filling at least one compartment through at least one edge portion with a component and sealing the at least one edge portion subsequently, and/or

- filling at least one compartment with a component through a nozzle of the multicompartment package and sealing or closing the nozzle subsequently, and/or - filling at least one compartment with a component through a filling opening of the multi-compartment package and sealing or closing the filling opening subsequently.

[0020] According to an embodiment, the method is further comprising the steps:

- filling a first compartment through the at least one edge portion, the nozzle, or the filling opening,

- closing a first reclosable locking mechanism and a second reclosable locking mechanism,

- filling a second compartment through the at least one edge portion, the nozzle, or the filling opening, and - sealing or closing the at least one edge portion, the nozzle, or the filling opening.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the compartments of the multicompartment package are filled with respective components in a predetermined order. [0022] Considerable advantages are obtained by means of the embodiments of the present invention. It is often desirable to have products packaged in separate packages or containers for later mixing. It is also often desirable to measure specific amounts of components prior to mixing. A flexible multi-compartment package is provided, wherein components can be stored separately in the compartments and can be mixed with each other at the time of use and before the package is opened. Generally, the package can be used for storing of any components. According to certain embodiments, the package is useful for storing ingredients of food products, for example, such as baby food. Such packaging is for example advantageous where the several products have a short shelf life when mixed with each other. The shelf- life of the separately stored ingredients may differ from the shelf-life of the mixture, thus improving the shelf life of the final product. According to certain other embodiments, the package is also useful for storing a medicament which is to be activated in a liquid. Further, according to certain other embodiments the package is useful for storing components of chemical products.

[0023] Additionally, two adjacent compartments of the multicompartment package are separated by two reclosable locking mechanisms an interconnecting section. In case of a failure of one locking mechanism the components stored in the respective compartments will remain unmixed and separated. Further, the compartments are rendered relatively easy for the user to open while being capable of resisting internal forces when filled. In particular, two adjacent compartments can be filled under high pressure with components due to the interconnecting section between the compartments and reclosable locking mechanisms which are orientated into different directions. Mixing of components can take place without any other devices. The volume of the compartments may be depending on a predefined mixture ratio in order to avoid measurement of the components prior to use. According to certain embodiments, multiple empty packages can be rolled up in order to provide minimum storing volume, i.e. minimization of storage and transportation costs is possible. The packages may be rolled up in a row and connected to each other. Between two packages a perforation may be arranged in a line, which perforation can be ripped to divide one package from another package. If necessary, separate packages including only one compartment can be achieved by cutting a multi-compartment package between the reclosable locking mechanisms. The multi-compartment package is furthermore reliable, durable, economical, transportable and tamper-resistant.

[0024] According to certain embodiments, heating of the multicompartment package is possible. Heating of the package may, for example, take place with contaminated water. The package can be, for example, also used when emergency management is required. In case of emergency situations, such as earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, nuclear accidents, famine, or war, the package is easily transportable to any desired location. If required, packages according to certain embodiments may be even distributed by means of a flying plane or helicopter due to the enormous durability of the packages.

[0025] Furthermore, a method for filling compartments of a multicompartment package with components is provided which allows filling of compartments of a package, wherein the peripheral edges are sealed. According to certain embodiments, the package may include two, three or more compartments. According to certain other embodiments, the compartments of the multi-compartment package are filled with respective components in a predetermined order to allow preparation of a product according to a recipe by opening the reclosable locking mechanisms in a defined order.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS :

[0026] For a more complete understanding of particular embodiments of the present invention and their advantages, reference is now made to the following descriptions, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

[0027] Fig. 1 illustrates a schematic top view of an empty multi- compartment package according to a first embodiment of the present invention,

[0028] Fig. 2 illustrates a schematic top view of a multi-compartment package according to a second embodiment of the present invention, which is filled with two components, [0029] Fig. 3 illustrates a schematic top view of a multi-compartment package according to a third embodiment of the present invention during mixing of the components,

[0030] Fig. 4 illustrates a schematic longitudinal side view of a multicompartment package according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention,

[0031] Fig. 5 illustrates a schematic longitudinal side view of a multicompartment package according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention during mixing of the components,

[0032] Fig. 6 illustrates a schematic bottom side view of a multicompartment package according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention,

[0033] Fig. 7 illustrates a schematic top side view of a multi-compartment package according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention,

[0034] Fig. 8 illustrates a schematic top view of a multi-compartment package according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention,

[0035] Fig. 9 illustrates a schematic top view of a multi-compartment package with three compartments according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention,

[0036] Fig. 10 illustrates a schematic longitudinal side view of a multicompartment package with opening handles according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention,

[0037] Fig. 11 illustrates a schematic top view of an empty multicompartment package with four compartments according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention,

[0038] Fig. 12 illustrates a schematic top view of an empty multicompartment package with three compartments according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention, [0039] Fig. 13 illustrates a schematic cross sectional view of a compartment of a multi-compartment package according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention,

[0040] Fig. 14 illustrates a schematic cross sectional view of a first and second reclosable locking mechanism of a multi-compartment package according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention, and

[0041] Fig. 15 illustrates a schematic top view of a first and second reclosable locking mechanism of a multi-compartment package according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION:

[0042] In Fig. 1 a schematic top view of an empty multi- compartment package 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The multi-compartment package 1 is made from flexible plastic material and includes a main package inner cavity 2 which is divided into two separated compartments 3, 4 for storing a first component 5 and a second component 6. The adjacent compartments 3, 4 are separated by a first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and a second reclosable locking mechanism 8. An interconnecting section 9 is arranged between the first and second reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8. The first reclosable locking mechanism 7 is configured to seal a first compartment 3 tightly. Additionally, the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 is configured such that a greater force is required to open the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 from within the first compartment 3 than from without. The second reclosable locking mechanism 8 is configured to seal a second compartment 4 tightly. The second reclosable locking mechanism 8 is also configured such that a greater force is required to open the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 from within the second compartment 4 than from without. Each of the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 includes two different profiles 29, 30. On one package sidewall there is provided an extruded profile that is configured to interlock with a complementary mating profile on the opposite sidewall of the multi-compartment package 1. As a result, the first compartment 3 and the second compartment 4 are rendered relatively easy for the user to open while being capable of resisting internal forces when filled. In other words, the first compartment 3 and the second compartment 4 are easy to open from outside but hard to open from inside. The first component 5 and the second component 6 can be stored separately in the respective compartments 3, 4. At a later stage it is possible to open the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 in order to mix the first component 5 with the second component 6 prior to use of the product. The volume of a compartment is typically between 0.001 [1] and 5 [1], for instance, between 0.1 [1] and 1.5 [1]. According to other embodiments, the volume of a compartment may be also greater than 5 [1], for example 10 [1], 30 [1], or 50 [1].

[0043] In Fig. 2 a schematic top view of a multi-compartment package 1 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The first compartment 3 is filled with a first component 5. The first component 5 is flowable and may be, for example, water or milk. The first reclosable locking mechanism 7 is closed. The second compartment 4 is further filled with a second component 6. The second component 6 may be, for example, an ingredient for providing baby food. The second reclosable locking mechanism 8 is also closed. The components 5, 6 are stored separately from each other in the compartments 3, 4 and in the interconnecting section 9 there are no components stored. As long as the reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8 are closed, the shelf-life of the separated components 5, 6 may be different from the shelf- life of the components 5, 6 being mixed at the time of use. The shelf life of a single component may be, for example, a month, six months, a year, or more than a year. Instead, the shelf life of a mixture 24 including the aforementioned component may be, for example, a few hours, a day, or a week. In other words, the shelf life of the food product, for example a baby food product, can be improved by storing the components 5, 6 separately and mixing the components 5, 6 at a later stage directly before the time of use. In case of food products, the volume of a compartment is typically between 0.1 [1] and 1.5 [1].

[0044] In Fig. 3 a schematic top view of a multi-compartment package 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The multicompartment package 1 is shown during mixing of the components 5, 6. By opening the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 a main inner cavity 2 is formed and the first component 5 and the second component 6 can be mixed in the main inner cavity 2 in order to achieve a flowable mixture 24. Mixing may, for example, take place by shaking the package 1 manually. The main inner cavity 2 is formed by the first compartment 3, the second compartment 4 and the interconnecting section 9.

[0045] In Fig. 4 a schematic longitudinal side view of a multicompartment package 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The first compartment 3 is filled with a first component 5 and the second compartment 4 is filled with a second component 6. The first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 are shown in a closed position. The package 1 is formed of a first panel 11 including an inner first panel surface 12, an outer first panel surface 13, first panel longitudinal edge portions 14, a first panel top portion 15, and a first panel bottom portion 16, and a second panel 17 including an inner second panel surface 18, an outer second panel surface 19, second panel longitudinal edge portions 20, a second panel top portion 21, and a second panel bottom portion 22. The first panel 11 and the second panel 17 form the main package inner cavity 2. Typically thermoplastic material is used to form the package 1. The profiles of the reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8 are typically made of suitable plastic material. The thickness of the first panel 11 and the second panel 17 is typically less than 3.0 [mm], for instance, between 0.1 [mm] and 1.5 [mm]. The package 1 is typically formed by sealing the first panel 1 1 and the second panel 17 together by positioning the first panel 11 over the second panel 17 and forming a permanent heat seal around the peripheral edge using heat sealing techniques or otherwise bonding techniques. The profiles of the reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8 are attached to the panels 11, 17 before forming the permanent heat seal. The panel top portions 14, 20 and/or the panel bottom portions 16, 22 are typically sealed after filling the compartments 3, 4 with a respective component 5, 6. Otherwise, the compartments 3, 4 have to be filled through a reclosable nozzle 10 or an additional filling opening. According to another embodiment, of the invention a single sheet of thermoplastic material may be folded on itself and heat sealed on three of the sides. Of course, the reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8 have to be installed before completely sealing the sides. The thermoplastic film may be, for example, polyolefm films from polymers of olefins, such as ethylene, propylene, or butylene. According to other embodiments, the film will be a multi-layer film including, for example, a sealant layer, a barrier layer, and/or a strength layer. Further, according to other embodiments the package 1 may be made from other material than thermoplastic material. The package 1 may be, for example, made from or include aluminum foil, cardboard, other plastic material, other material, or combinations of different materials.

[0046] In Fig. 5 a schematic longitudinal side view of a multicompartment package 1 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Prior to use of the food product, the food product is prepared by manually opening the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8, thereby forming a main inner cavity 2 and providing fluid communication between the first compartment 3 and the second compartment 4 as well as mixing of the components 5, 6 in order to achieve a flowable mixture 24. According to other embodiments, at least one of the reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8 will open at a predetermined temperature of a stored component due to pressure increase in the respective compartment and/or expansion of the respective component. The package may be, for example, heated in water, a conventional oven, a microwave stove, or otherwise heated.

[0047] In Fig. 6 a schematic bottom side view of a multi-compartment package 1 according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The first panel 11 and the second panel 17 are sealed together by positioning the first panel 11 over the second panel 17 and forming a permanent heat seal around the peripheral edge. The first panel bottom portion 16 is sealed to the second panel bottom portion 22. Additionally, the first panel longitudinal edge portions 14 are sealed to the respective second panel longitudinal edge portions 20. According to certain embodiments, the outer first panel surface 13 and/or the outer second panel surface 19 may be printed with text and/or graphics. Otherwise, a label may be attached to the outer first panel surface 13 and/or the outer second panel surface 19.

[0048] In Fig. 7 a schematic top side view of a multi- compartment package according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The first panel 11 and the second panel 17 are sealed together by positioning the first panel 11 over the second panel 17 and forming a permanent heat seal around the peripheral edge. The first panel top portion 15 is sealed to the second panel bottom portion 21. Additionally, the first panel longitudinal edge portions 14 are sealed to the respective second panel longitudinal edge portions 20. [0049] In Fig. 8 a schematic top view of a multi-compartment package 1 according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The multicompartment package 1 is made from flexible plastic material and includes a main package inner cavity 2, which is divided into two separated compartments 3, 4 for storing a first component 5 and a second component 6. The adjacent compartments 3, 4 are separated by a first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and a second reclosable locking mechanism 8. An interconnecting section 9 is arranged between the first and second reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8. The first component 5 may be, for example, water and the second component 6 may be, for example, a medical powder. Prior to use of the activated medicament to the patient, the medicament is prepared by opening the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8, thereby forming a main inner cavity 2 and providing fluid communication between the first compartment 3 and the second compartment 4 as well as mixing of the components 5, 6. According to other embodiments, the medical powder or at least one pill may be dissolved in a liquid. The volume of the first compartment 3 is depending on the volume of the second compartment 4 in order to provide a standardized dose of the activated medicament. As the activated medicament may only have a finite life depending on the individual medicament, the components 5, 6 can be separately stored and transported due to the two compartments 3, 4. In case of medical products, the volume of a compartment is typically between 0.001 [1] and 0.2 [1]. According to other embodiments, the compartments 3, 4 may be filled with components 5, 6 of a chemical product, for example an adhesive and a hardener. The components 5, 6 have typically to be stored separately in order to avoid an undesired chemical reaction before use of the chemical product. Controlled chemical reaction of the reaction partners can be effected by opening the reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8. Additionally, the user of the product can easily measure a specified minimum or maximum reaction time starting from the opening of the reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8. The volume of the compartments 3, 4 is depending on the required mixture ratio of the components 5, 6. In case of chemical products, the volume of a compartment is typically between 0.01 [1] and 5 [1]. According to other embodiments, the components stored in the package do not include liquids, i.e. the components are provided as a powder, for example an explosive charge comprising two components. [0050] Fig. 9 illustrates a schematic top view of a multi-compartment package according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. The multicompartment package 1 is made from flexible plastic material and includes a main package inner cavity 2, which is divided into three separated compartments 3, 4, 25 for storing a first component 5, a second component 6, and a third component 26 as well as two interconnecting sections 9. Between the first compartment 3 and the second compartment 4 as well as the second compartment 4 and the third compartment 25 a first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and a second reclosable locking mechanism 8 are arranged. The multi-compartment package further includes a nozzle 10 through which flowable material 24 can be dispensed. The nozzle 10 is an integral part of the package 1 and made from the flexible plastic material. After mixing of the components 5, 6, 26 the nozzle 10 can be ripped and the flowable mixture 24 can be then dispensed through the opening of the nozzle 10. According to other embodiments, the nozzle 10 may be an extra part which is glued or otherwise fixed to the package 1. The nozzle 10 may further include a reclosable closure. A reclosable closure allows dispensing of a portion of the flowable mixture 24 and further storing of the remaining portion of the flowable mixture 24. According to other embodiments, the package 1 can also include a nipple for babies configured to dispense flowable material 24 under suction. Further, according to other embodiments the package 1 may include more than three compartments in a row, for example four or five compartments. According to certain embodiments, the compartments of the multi-compartment package 1 are filled with respective components in a predetermined order. A mixture 24, for example a food product, can be then prepared according to a recipe by opening the reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8 in a defined order.

[0051] In Fig. 10 a schematic longitudinal side view of a multi- compartment package 1 according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. An opening handle 23 is attached to the outer first panel surface 13 of the first panel 11 and to the outer second panel surface 19 of the second panel 17. The opening handles 23 are preferably attached to the first panel 1 1 and to the second panel 17 between the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8, i.e. in the region of the interconnecting section 9. The locking mechanisms 7, 8 can easily be opened by pulling the handles 23 with a pulling force F. According to other embodiments, the handles 23 may be made from the flexible material or any other material and pivotally attached to the first panel 11 and to the second panel 17.

[0052] In Fig. 11 a schematic top view of an empty multi-compartment package according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The main package inner cavity 2 is divided into four rectangular compartments 3, 4, 25, 27 for storing four components. Adjacent compartments 3, 4 , 25, 27 are separated by a first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and a second reclosable locking mechanism 8 and a single interconnecting section 9 is arranged between the first and second reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8. Adjacent compartments within the meaning of the detailed description of embodiments are defined as having an interconnecting section 9 between the reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8, i.e. compartments arranged on opposite sides of the interconnecting section 9, for example the first compartment 3 and the third compartment 25, as well as compartments arranged next to each other, for example the first compartment 3 and the second compartment 4, represent adjacent compartments. According to other embodiments, more or less than four compartments may be connected to a single interconnecting section, i.e. the plane form of the interconnecting section may be, for example, a hexagon or a triangle. According to further other embodiments, the plan form of at least one compartment may be triangular or of any other shape, for example a semicircle or a trapezoid. [0053] In Fig. 12 a schematic top view of an empty multi-compartment package according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Three compartments 3, 4, 25 and one interconnecting section 9 form the main package inner cavity 2. The volume of the compartments 3, 4, 25 is depending on specific components. According to certain embodiments, at least one of the compartments may be perforated, for example the first compartment 3. Such a perforation may be useful to prepare a specific ingredient by heating in water, for example rice. The second compartment 4 and the third compartment 25 may be unperforated and filled with other components, for example with fish and sauce.

[0054] In Fig. 13 a schematic cross sectional view of a compartment 3 of a multi-compartment package 1 according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The first panel 11 includes two foldings 28 which are configured to unfold with increasing pressure in the compartment 3 due to heating of the component 5 stored in the package 1. The foldings 28 prevent the compartment 3 of the package 1 from bursting open before the heated product can be used. In other words, by means of a folding 28 additional reserve volume is provided to the compartment 3. According to other embodiments, the second panel 17 or both panels 11, 17 may include at least one folding 28.

[0055] In Fig. 14 a schematic cross sectional view of a first and second reclosable locking mechanism 7, 8 of a multi-compartment package 1 according to a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Each of the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 includes an elongated male and female profile 29, 30. On the first inner panel surface 12 of the first panel 11 there is provided an extruded male profile 29 that is configured to interlock with a complementary mating profile 30 on the opposite second inner panel surface 18 of the second panel 17. The elongated profiles 29, 30 of the first and second reclosable locking mechanisms 7, 8 are formed along adjacent inner panel surfaces 12, 18 of the package 1. The two profiles 29, 30 may be pressed into engaging relation with one another along the lengths thereof to close the respective reclosable locking mechanism 7, 8 and then may be pulled apart to disengage the two profiles to again open the respective reclosable locking mechanism 7, 8. According to other embodiments, at least one of the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 includes a zipper. The zipper may include a first profile and a complementary mating profile which, when interlocked and properly attached to the package panels render the respective reclosable locking mechanism 7, 8 easy to open from the outside and hard to open from the inside. [0056] In Fig. 15 a schematic top view of a first and second reclosable locking mechanism 7, 8 of a multi-compartment package 1 according to a fifteenth embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The first reclosable locking mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 each comprise two different closures. At least one closure of the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 is configured such that a greater force is required to open the first reclosable locking mechanism 7 from within the first compartment 3 than from without. Further, at least one closure of the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 is configured such that a greater force is required to open the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 from within the second compartment 4 than from without. The closures are arranged substantially parallel to each other and each comprises a male and a female profile. Thus, the first reclosable mechanism 7 and the second reclosable locking mechanism 8 are configured such that a greater force is required to open the respective locking mechanism 7, 8 from within the respective compartment 3, 4 than from without. As a result, two adjacent compartments 3, 4 can be filled with components under high pressure due to the interconnecting section and the orientation of the closures. [0057] Although the present invention has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration, various changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the claims. In addition, it is to be understood that the present disclosure contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment may be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment. [0058] It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention disclosed are not limited to the particular structures, process steps, or materials disclosed herein, but are extended to equivalents thereof as would be recognized by those ordinarily skilled in the relevant arts. It should also be understood that terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. List of reference numbers:

1 multi-compartment package

2 main inner cavity

3 first compartment

4 second compartment

5 first component

6 second component

7 first reclosable locking mechanism 8 second reclosable locking mechanism

9 interconnecting section

10 nozzle

11 first panel

12 inner first panel surface

13 outer first panel surface

14 first panel longitudinal edge portion

15 first panel top portion

16 first panel bottom portion

17 second panel

18 inner second panel surface

19 outer second panel surface

20 second panel longitudinal edge portion

21 second panel top portion 22 second panel bottom portion

23 opening handle

24 flowable mixture

25 third compartment

26 third component

27 fourth compartment

28 folding

29 male profile

30 female profile

F force

a pivoting angle

Claims

Claims:

1. A flexible multi-compartment package (1) comprising:

- a main package inner cavity (2) which is divided into at least two separated compartments (3, 4) for storing at least a first component (5) and a second component

(6), and wherein

- two adjacent compartments (3, 4) are separated by a first reclosable locking mechanism (7) and a second reclosable locking mechanism (8), and

- an interconnecting section (9) is arranged between the first and second reclosable locking mechanisms (7, 8).

2. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first reclosable locking mechanism (7) is configured to seal a first compartment (3) tightly.

3. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to claim 2, wherein the first reclosable locking mechanism (7) is configured such that a greater force is required to open the first reclosable locking mechanism (7) from within the first compartment (3) than from without.

4. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second reclosable locking mechanism (8) is configured to seal a second compartment (4) tightly.

5. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to claim 4, wherein the second reclosable locking mechanism (8) is configured such that a greater force is required to open the second reclosable locking mechanism (8) from within the second compartment (4) than from without.

6. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the multi-compartment package (1) includes at least one nozzle (10) or nipple through which flowable material can be dispensed.

7. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 further comprising: - a first panel (11) including an inner first panel surface (12), an outer first panel surface (13), first panel longitudinal edge portions (14), a first panel top portion (15), and a first panel bottom portion (16), and

- a second panel (17) including an inner second panel surface (18), an outer second panel surface (19), second panel longitudinal edge portions (20), a second panel top portion (21), and a second panel bottom portion (22), and

- wherein the first panel (11) and the second panel (17) form the main package inner cavity (2).

8. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to claim 7, wherein an opening handle (23) is attached to the outer first panel surface (13) and an opening handle (23) is attached to the outer second panel surface (19).

9. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to claim 8, wherein the opening handles (23) are attached to the package (1) between the first reclosable locking mechanism (7) and the second reclosable locking mechanism (8).

10. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein at least one of the compartments (3, 4) is capable of holding a liquid.

11. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the compartments (3, 4) is capable of holding a powder or flour.

12. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 1 1, wherein the volume of at least one compartment (3, 4), which is to be filled with a component (5, 6), is depending on the volume of at least another compartment (3, 4), which is to be filled with another component (5, 6).

13. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the package (1) is configured to be heated in boiling water, an oven, or a microwave stove.

14. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein at least one of the compartments (3, 4, 25) is perforated.

15. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein at least one of the first reclosable locking mechanism (7) and the second reclosable locking mechanism (8) is configured to open at a predetermined temperature of a stored component.

16. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the package (1) includes at least one folding (28) which is configured to unfold with increasing pressure in a compartment (3, 4, 25).

17. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein at least one of the first reclosable locking mechanism (7) and the second reclosable locking mechanism (8) includes elongated male and female profiles (29, 30) formed along adjacent inner panel surfaces (12, 18) of the package (1).

18. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein at least one of the first reclosable locking mechanism (7) and the second reclosable locking mechanism (8) includes a zipper.

19. The flexible multi-compartment package (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein at least one of the first reclosable locking mechanism (7) and the second reclosable locking mechanism (8) includes at least two closures.

20. Method for filling a compartment of a flexible multi-compartment package according to any one of claims 1 - 19, the method comprising the steps of:

- filling at least one compartment with a component through a nozzle of the multicompartment package and sealing or closing the nozzle subsequently, and/or

- filling at least one compartment with a component through a filling opening of the multi-compartment package and sealing or closing the filling opening subsequently.

21. The method according to claim 20 further comprising:

- closing a first reclosable locking mechanism and a second reclosable locking mechanism, - filling a second compartment through the at least one edge portion, the nozzle, or the filling opening, and

- sealing or closing the at least one edge portion, the nozzle, or the filling opening.

22. The method according to claim 20 or 21 further comprising the step: - filling compartments of the multi-compartment package with respective components in a predetermined order.