U.S. patent application number 13/371324 was filed with the patent office on 2012-11-29 for odor containment bag.
Invention is credited to Brandon Conant, Brian Conant, Frank Morosky.
Application Number | 20120301057 13/371324 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47219267 |
Filed Date | 2012-11-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120301057 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Conant; Brian ; et
al. |
November 29, 2012 |
Odor Containment Bag
Abstract
Provided herein are odor containment bags useful for containing
odorous materials. An odor containment bag comprises an envelope
having an opening, wherein the envelope wall comprises a first
layer, a second layer, and a third layer. The first and second
layers are each a layer of activated charcoal cloth. The third
layer is a non-porous material. The bag further comprises a closure
mechanism for closing the envelope about the opening.
Inventors: |
Conant; Brian; (Mililani,
HI) ; Morosky; Frank; (Cedar Rapids, IA) ;
Conant; Brandon; (Mililani, HI) |
Family ID: |
47219267 |
Appl. No.: |
13/371324 |
Filed: |
February 10, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61490048 |
May 25, 2011 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
383/64 ; 383/42;
383/84 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 2313/02 20130101;
B65F 2210/1026 20130101; B65D 31/04 20130101; B65F 1/002 20130101;
B65D 81/267 20130101; B65D 33/25 20130101; B65F 1/0026 20130101;
B65D 33/24 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
383/64 ; 383/42;
383/84 |
International
Class: |
B65D 30/08 20060101
B65D030/08; B65D 33/16 20060101 B65D033/16 |
Claims
1. A containment bag comprising an envelope having an opening,
wherein: a. the envelope wall comprises a first layer, a second
layer, and a third layer; b. the first and second layers are each a
layer of activated charcoal cloth; c. the third layer is a
non-porous material; d. the third layer is between the first and
second layers; e. the envelope wall comprises a closure mechanism
for closing the envelope about the opening.
2. The containment bag of claim 1, wherein the envelope wall
comprises a flap configured for covering the closure mechanism.
3. The containment bag of claim 2, further comprising a holding
mechanism configured to hold the flap in position for said covering
the closure mechanism.
4. The containment bag of claim 3, wherein the holding mechanism is
a hook and loop mechanism.
5. The containment bag of claim 1, wherein the closure mechanism is
a hook and loop closure mechanism.
6. The containment bag of claim 2, wherein the closure mechanism is
a hook and loop closure mechanism.
7. The containment bag of claim 3, wherein the closure mechanism is
a hook and loop closure mechanism.
8. The containment bag of claim 4, wherein the closure mechanism is
a hook and loop closure mechanism.
9. The containment bag of claim 1, wherein the non-porous material
is a polymer, optionally, wherein the polymer is a plastic, a
thermoplastic, or a polypropylene.
10. The containment bag of claim 2, wherein the non-porous material
is a polymer, optionally, wherein the polymer is a plastic, a
thermoplastic, or a polypropylene.
11. The containment bag of claim 3, wherein the non-porous material
is a polymer, optionally, wherein the polymer is a plastic, a
thermoplastic, or a polypropylene.
12. The containment bag of claim 4, wherein the non-porous material
is a polymer, optionally, wherein the polymer is a plastic, a
thermoplastic, or a polypropylene.
13. The containment bag of claim 5, wherein the non-porous material
is a polymer, optionally, wherein the polymer is a plastic, a
thermoplastic, or a polypropylene.
14. The containment bag of claim 6, wherein the non-porous material
is a polymer, optionally, wherein the polymer is a plastic, a
thermoplastic, or a polypropylene.
15. The containment bag of claim 7, wherein the non-porous material
is a polymer, optionally, wherein the polymer is a plastic, a
thermoplastic, or a polypropylene.
16. The containment bag of claim 8, wherein the non-porous material
is a polymer, optionally, wherein the polymer is a plastic, a
thermoplastic, or a polypropylene.
17. A containment bag comprising an envelope having an opening,
wherein: a. the envelope wall comprises a layer of activated
charcoal cloth; b. the envelope wall comprises a closure mechanism
for closing the envelope about the opening, wherein the closure
mechanism comprises a non-track type closure mechanism with
interlocking members; c. the envelope wall comprises a track-type
alignment mechanism configured to align the interlocking members
when engaged.
18. The containment bag of claim 17, wherein the track-type
alignment mechanism is a zipper or a tongue and groove
mechanism.
19. The containment bag of claim 17, wherein then envelope
comprises a flap configured for covering the closure mechanism,
optionally, wherein the bag further comprises a holding mechanism
configured to hold the flap in position for said covering the
closure mechanism.
20. The containment bag of claim 17, wherein the opening is greater
than any of: about 6 inches, about 10 inches, or about 15 inches.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional
application Ser. No. 61/490,048 filed on 25 May 2011, which is
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to containment bags.
BACKGROUND
[0003] There are many situations in which an odorous material must
be stored or transported. In these situations, it is sometimes
desirable to provide an odor-containing receptacle, for example,
when the odor is unpleasant, pungent, or when the odor causes
embarrassment to the user.
[0004] Activated charcoal (i.e. activated carbon) is carbon that
has been treated to impart porosity, increasing the surface area to
several hundred or even several thousand square meters per gram.
Such activation typically involves oxidizing (e.g. using steam
and/or oxygen) charcoal under high temperatures. Activated charcoal
is widely used as an adsorbent catalyst in chemical reactions and a
filter for removing impurities substances from water. The increased
surface area of activated charcoal provides numerous bonding sites
to preferentially adsorb organic molecules as they come in
proximity to the surface.
[0005] Activated charcoal has also found use in filtering odorous
molecules from the air. For example, Conant et al. (U.S. Pat. No.
6,313,371) teach the use of an activated charcoal cloth pad for use
as a flatulence deodorizer.
[0006] Activated charcoal has also found use in odor-controlling
disposal containers. Tepper et al. (WO 2002/098765) describe an
odor-controlling container for use in disposing of wastes having an
associated malodor. The container can comprise activated charcoal
cloth for adsorbing odor molecules. However, Tepper et al. fall
short in a number of features now provided by various embodiments
of the present invention. For example, Tepper et al. do not each a
bag comprising a non-porous layer sandwiched between two layers of
activated charcoal cloth. Further, Tepper et al. do not teach a bag
comprising a double closure system. Although the containers of
Tepper et al. were shown to reduce odor intensity, even the top
performing examples did not provide complete or near complete
inhibition of odor escape.
[0007] What is needed in the art is a reusable container for
storing odorous materials that provides complete or near complete
inhibition of odor escape.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The invention provides an odor containment bag. The bag
comprises an envelope having an opening, wherein the envelope wall
comprises three layers or "plies". The first and second plies are
each a layer of activated charcoal cloth. The third ply is a
non-porous material positioned between the layers of activated
charcoal cloth. The bag comprises a closure mechanism for closing
the envelope about the opening.
[0009] In one embodiment, the bag has a double closure system. The
envelope comprises a flap configured for covering the closure
mechanism (`closure`) and a holding mechanism configured for
holding the flap in position for said covering the closure.
Optionally, the holding mechanism is of the hook and loop type.
[0010] In one embodiment, the closure is a hook and loop closure.
Optionally, the envelope further comprises a flap configured for
covering the closure. Optionally, the bag comprises a holding
mechanism configured to hold the flap in position for said covering
the closure. Optionally, the holding mechanism is of the hook and
loop type.
[0011] In one embodiment, the non-porous material is a polymer such
as a plastic, e.g. a thermoplastic such as polypropylene.
[0012] In one embodiment, the non-porous material is a polymer
(e.g. thermoplastic) and the closure mechanism is a hook and loop
closure mechanism. Optionally, the envelope further comprises a
flap configured for covering the closure mechanism. Optionally, the
bag comprises a holding mechanism configured to hold the flap in
position for said covering the closure mechanism. Optionally, the
holding mechanism is a hook and loop holding mechanism.
[0013] In one embodiment, the bag is pocket sized, duffel bag
sized, or from pocket sized to duffel bag sized.
[0014] The invention also provides a method of containing a
material comprising placing the material in the odor containment
bag. Optionally, the material is an odorous material, an allergen,
or an oxidation-prone material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 depicts a containment bag of the present
invention.
[0016] FIG. 2 depicts a three-ply envelope useful in a bag of a
containment bag of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 3 depicts a containment bag of the present
invention.
[0018] FIG. 4 depicts a containment bag of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] As used here, the following definitions and abbreviations
apply.
[0020] "Examplary" (or "e.g." or "by example" or "such as" or
"can") means a non-limiting example.
Envelope
[0021] Envelope Overview
[0022] A bag of the present invention comprises an envelope having
an opening and a closure mechanism. The envelope wall comprises at
least three layers or "plies": a middle ply positioned between an
inner ply and an outer ply. The inner and outer plies each comprise
a layer of activated charcoal cloth. The middle ply is a non-porous
layer, for example, a polymer film. The envelope further comprises
a closure mechanism (e.g. hook and loop mechanism) for sealing the
envelope. Optionally, the envelope comprises a double closure
system.
[0023] Activated Charcoal Cloth
[0024] According to the present invention, a bag comprises two
layers of activated charcoal cloth for adsorbing odor molecules
from an odorous item contained in the bag.
[0025] Activated charcoal cloth is a porous and gas-permeable
fabric comprising activated charcoal. Activated charcoal, also
known as activated carbon, is a broad-spectrum adsorbent. The
activated charcoal traps odor molecules as gas (i.e. air) passes
there through the fabric. Activated charcoal cloth can be obtained,
for example, by weaving activated carbon fibers into a fabric.
Other methods of obtaining activated charcoal cloth are known in
the art, for example, dispersing activated charcoal granules
between laminated sheets of a porous material (e.g. nonwoven
polymer fabric).
[0026] Any activated charcoal cloth is useful in the present
invention. Examples of useful activated charcoal cloth include
those distributed by Calgon Carbon Corporation, such as Zorflex.
Optionally, the layer of activated charcoal cloth is sandwiched or
laminated between layers of a porous material such as a nonwoven
fabric (e.g. Daltex polypropylene nonwoven). This provides a
protective layer of porous material to the activated charcoal
layer. Optionally, the inner and outer layers of activated charcoal
cloth are made of different cloths. For example, the outer cloth
can be made from activated charcoal cloth material from granulated
charcoal dispersed on a porous layer(s) (e.g. Freudenberg Non-Woven
Group) (Model 9003) while the inner layer is made of farbric woven
from activated charcoal fibers (e.g. Zorflex).
[0027] One method of forming an activated charcoal layer of the
envelope comprises a) providing a sheet of activated charcoal
cloth, b) off-center-folding the sheet upon itself such that an
overhang remains (flap region), and c) sewing (e.g. stitching or
bonding) the folded lateral sides together, leaving an opening at
the base of the flap region. In one example, each of the layers of
activated charcoal are independently formed as such, and then
combined with the non-porous layer to provide the envelope (e.g. as
depicted in FIG. 2c).
[0028] Non-Porous Layer
[0029] According to the present invention, a bag comprises a
non-porous layer between the inner and outer layers of activated
charcoal cloth.
[0030] Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the
middle non-porous layer stops (or impedes) the movement of odor
molecules from the inner layer of activated charcoal to the outer
layer of activated charcoal, thereby providing a partition and to
regulate the load to the outer layer of active charcoal.
Additionally, the non-porous layer ensures that air is not
inadvertently forced through the layers activated charcoal cloth
layers due to environmental conditions (e.g. wind or movement of
the bag relative to ambient air, e.g. due to transport of the bag).
Although the non-porous layer stops the movement of odor molecules,
it is believed that passage of an odor molecule through a
non-porous layer still occurs, for example, by migration through
molecular gaps in the non-porous layer. This process begins with
adsorption of the molecule on the layer surface, diffusion of the
odor molecule through the layer, and desorption of the odor
molecule from the opposite surface.
[0031] In one embodiment, the non-porous layer comprises a layer of
metal (e.g. aluminum), for example, a layer of foil.
[0032] In one embodiment, the non-porous layer comprises a polymer
layer, e.g. a polymer film. Optionally, the polymer is a
thermoplastic resin (e.g. polypropylene film). Thermoplastic films
can be produced, for example, by melting and extruding the
thermoplastic. Any production process is useful so long as it
produces a non-porous layer, e.g. blown film and slit-die
extrusion. Not included in this embodiment are many non-woven
fabrics (sometimes referred to as "nonwovens"), e.g. those produced
by bonding plastic fibers, unless they are laminated or otherwise
sealed to produce a non-porous layer. These non-wovens have macro-
or micro-scopic pores that are much longer than intermolecular gaps
through which diffusion is the only means of transport.
[0033] In one embodiment, the non-porous layer comprises a polymer
selected from any of the following types: polyolefin, polyalkylene,
Polypropylene (PP), Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene (BOPP), Low
Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear low-density polyethylene
(LLDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), PolyVinyl Chloride
(PVC), Cellophane, vinylidene chloride (e.g. PVDC), PCTFE,
polyamide (nylons), and Nylon-MXD6.
[0034] The non-porous layer can be of any thickness or flexibility.
Optionally, the non-porous layer is flexible. Optionally, the
non-porous layer is rigid. The skilled artisan will recognize that,
for certain materials, flexibility is dependent on thickness of the
material. For example, a 1.5 mil layer of polypropylene can be used
to provide a flexible non-porous layer.
[0035] In one embodiment, the non-porous layer comprises a
laminated, coextruded, or coated polymer film.
[0036] In one embodiment, the non-porous layer is a co-extruded
film. Optionally, the co-extruded film is EVOH/LLDPE.
[0037] In one embodiment, the non-porous layer is a polymer film
comprising a coating to enhance barrier properties. Optionally, the
coating is selected from acrylic, PVC, PVDC, nitrocellulose,
aluminum, and inorganic oxide. Other examples are known in the
art.
[0038] In one embodiment, the non-porous layer is any layer that
provides a gas- or odor-barrier. Useful examples of such non-porous
layers are described by Hilton et al. ("Permeability of Organic
Vapor through Packaging Films."; Ind. Eng. Chem. Prod. Res. Dev.,
1978, 17 (1), pp 80-85), "PACKAGING MATERIALS FOR FOODS" (Practical
Action; Retrieved from the internet URL:
http://web.archive.org/web/20100923054354/http://practicalaction.org/docs-
/technical_information_service/packaging_materials.pdf),
"Permeability and Other Film Properties of Plastics and Elastomers"
(Plastics Design Library Staff (1995). William Andrew
Publishing/Plastics Design Library), "Plastics in Packaging"
(Chapter 11 in Handbook of Plastics, Elastomers, and Composites;
Hernandez, Retrieved from the internet URL:
http://www.accessengineeringlibrary.com/mghpdf/0071449493_ar011.pdf),
Cooskey ("IMPORTANT FACTORS FOR SELECTING FOOD PACKAGING MATERIALS
BASED ON PERMEABILITY"; Flexible Packaging Conference 2004;
Obtained from the URL:
http://www.burchamintl.com/papers/petpapers/62.pdf), Feldman
(Journal of Polymers and the Environment, Volume 9, Number 2,
49-55, Polymer Barrier Films), Massey, L.K. ((2003). Permeability
Properties of Plastics and Elastomers--A Guide to Packaging and
Barrier Materials (2nd Edition). William Andrew Publishing/Plastics
Design Library.), each of which is hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0039] The non-porous layer is not limited to any particular
structure, as long as it is non-porous with respect to gaseous odor
molecules. The skilled artisan will recognize that even so-called
"gas-impermeable" polymer films have some degree of permeability,
for example, due to diffusion through amorphous portions of the
polymer. The non-porous layer can be tailored by modifying various
parameters known in the art, e.g by modifying crosslinking,
orientation, crystallinity, and/or thickness of the film.
[0040] One method of forming the non-porous layer of the envelope
comprises a) providing a sheet of thermoplastic film (e.g.
polypropylene), b) off-center-folding the sheet upon itself such
that an overhang remains (flap region), and c) using a cut seal on
the lateral sides, leaving an opening at the base of the flap. In
one example, the gas impermeable layer is formed as such, then
placed inside the outer layer of activated charcoal cloth, then
opened to place the inner layer of activate charcoal cloth inside
the gas impermeable layer (e.g. as depicted in FIG. 2c).
[0041] Form
[0042] A bag of the present invention is any container or
"envelope" having an opening. Bags of the present invention can be
formed from envelopes of any size, shape, or configuration.
[0043] The envelope can be of any container type. For example, the
envelope can be in the form of a pouch, backpack, duffel bag,
chest, briefcase, storage box, a locker, and the like.
[0044] In one embodiment, the envelope is pocket sized. In one
embodiment, the envelope is duffle bag sized. In one embodiment,
the envelope has a size ranging from pocket size to duffle bag
size. In one embodiment, the envelope has a volume of about any of:
10-40000, 10-20000, 10-5,000, 5-500, 5-300, 5-100, 1000-20000, and
500-10000 in.sup.3.
[0045] In one embodiment, the envelope is flexible. In one
embodiment, the bag is rigid. Although flexible non-porous layers
allow the construction of a flexible bag, the present invention
also contemplates the use of rigid or hard-shell bags. Such a rigid
or hard-shell bags can be provided by including one or more rigid
layers. For example, the non-porous layer may be provided as a
rigid layer. Alternatively, the rigid bag can be formed by
inserting the envelope into a hard-shelled case, for example, a
hard-shelled case having a lid or top having an seal (e.g. o-ring)
and/or a pressure valve, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No.
6,164,505, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
[0046] The envelope, and each layer thereof, can be assembled in
any manner. In one embodiment, the envelope made by sewing, e.g. as
is known for assembling purses and clothing items. For example, the
envelope components can be formed or combined by stitching,
stapling, bonding (e.g. adhesive), molding, or heat-sealing.
Details of such methods are well known in the art. Optionally, the
layers of activated charcoal cloth are stitched together without
piercing the gas impermeable layer. For example, each envelope
layer can be independently formed and then inserted into one
another, as detailed in FIG. 2c.
Closure Mechanism
[0047] According to the present invention, a bag comprises a
closure mechanism for closing the bag about the opening. The
closure mechanism can be any mechanism that seals or otherwise
interlocks two segments of the envelope wall together to close the
bag about the opening.
[0048] Useful closure mechanisms include, for example, those having
components that interact to form a closure mechanism, e.g. hook and
loop closure, tongue and groove (e.g. ZIP LOK.TM.) closure,
zipper-type closures, track-type closures, non-track type closures,
contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and the like.
[0049] In one embodiment, the closure mechanism interlocks two
opposing segments of the envelope wall into contact with each
other, for example, as depicted in FIG. 1.
[0050] In one embodiment, the bag comprises a double closure
system. A double closure system comprises a closure mechanism (e.g.
interlocking segments of the envelope wall at the opening) and a
flap of envelope wall configured for covering the closure
mechanism, e.g. as detailed in Example 1. The flap can be, for
example, an extension of one of the container walls configured to
be folded over the closure mechanism. The bag further comprises
either a second closure mechanism or flap "holding mechanism"
configured to hold the flap in position for covering the closure
mechanism. Optionally, the holding mechanism provides a seal as in
a closure mechanism. Optionally, the holding mechanism is a hook
and loop holding mechanism. Alternatively, the holding mechanism
can be any known holding or closure mechanism, e.g. any closure
mechanisms described herein. Although a single closure mechanism
provides a seal or barrier to the exit of odor molecules, the
double closure mechanism is surprisingly effective at containing
odorous materials, ensuring that any odor molecules that pass
through the closure mechanism become adsorbed by the flap.
[0051] In one embodiment, the holding mechanism forms a seal (e.g.
hook and loop) between the flap and the envelope. In such a
configuration, the flap isn't necessarily positioned snugly against
the opening or closure mechanism. Instead, the sealed flap forms a
second compartment for containment and filtering of any molecules
that escape the first closure mechanism. However, the present
double closure systems are not limited to systems having a holding
mechanism that form an interlocking seal. For example, in one
embodiment, the holding mechanism is configured to position the
flap over and flushly in contact with the opening and/or closure
mechanism, e.g. as depicted in FIG. 1b. In such a configuration,
any odor molecules escaping the closure mechanism are directed
through a snugly wrapped flap.
[0052] In one embodiment, the bag comprises a double hook and loop
closure system. In such an embodiment, the bag comprises a hook and
loop closure mechanism, a flap of envelope wall configured for
covering the closure mechanism, and a hook and loop holding
mechanism for holding the flap in position for covering the closure
mechanism, e.g. as detailed in Example 1.
[0053] In one embodiment, the bag comprises a triple closure
mechanism. Such a bag comprises a double closure mechanism, wherein
at least one closure mechanism is a non-sliding or non-track type
closure mechanism (e.g. hook and loop), and the bag further
comprises a sliding- or track-type alignment tool (e.g. zipper or
tongue and groove mechanism) for aligning the closure mechanism, as
detailed in Example 2. The alignment tool can be, for example, any
sliding or track type mechanism placed alongside and parallel to
the non-sliding or track type closure mechanism such that operation
of the sliding or track type mechanism aligns the interlocking
components of the non-sliding/track type closure mechanism.
Although the triple closure mechanism is useful in combination with
the three-ply envelopes taught herein, the invention also
contemplates the use of a triple closure mechanism outside the use
of the three-ply envelope design. For example, one embodiment
provides a bag having a triple closure mechanism and any envelope
comprising activated charcoal cloth (e.g. single ply activated
charcoal cloth or a two-ply envelope comprising a layer of
activated charcoal cloth and a non-porous layer).
[0054] FIG. 4 depicts one embodiment of the present invention. The
bag comprises an envelope 17 having an opening with closure 21
(e.g. hook and loop) and outer flap 18 configured to cover the
closure 21. The bag further comprises an inner flap 20 with
optional holding mechanism 21 (e.g. hook and loop). Optionally, the
bag comprises a holding mechanism 19 (e.g. hook and loop) for
holding the outer flap 18 over the closure 21. In one embodiment,
the inner flap 20 is made from the envelope wall material or is
alternatively any activated charcoal cloth material. Although this
embodiment is useful in combination with the use of three-ply
envelopes, as taught herein, the invention also contemplates its
use outside of the three-ply envelope design taught herein.
Accordingly, the invention provides a bag having a closure and an
inner and outer flaps with optional holding mechanisms, wherein the
envelope wall is made from any activated charcoal cloth (e.g. a
single layer of activated charcoal cloth or a layer of activated
charcoal cloth and a non-porous layer).
Utility
[0055] A bag of the present invention can be used to contain any
material. Accordingly, the invention provides a method of
containing a material comprising placing the material in an odor
containment bag taught herein. Optionally, the material is an
odorous material or an oxidation-prone material.
[0056] In one embodiment, the contained material is an odorous
material. According to the present invention, odorous materials
include materials that emit any of: odors, allergens, and volatile
organic compounds. Examples of materials which can be contained by
a bag of the invention include animal products, plant products,
wastes, clothing, biological specimens, and hazardous
materials.
[0057] Surprisingly, examplary bags of the present invention are so
effective at containing odors, that specially trained canines are
unable to identify odorous materials when placed inside the bag.
Accordingly, a bag of the present invention provides superior odor
containment.
[0058] In one embodiment, the material is a plant product. Examples
of plant products that release odors include compost, vegetables,
fruits, spices, and herbs (e.g. culinary, medicinal, prescription,
or holistic).
[0059] In one embodiment, the material is an animal product.
Examples of animal products include food products such as meats,
cheese (e.g. limburger), animal wastes, animal carcasses, and
animal specimens.
[0060] The superior filtering capacity of bags of the present
invention can be utilized to contain materials that release
allergens or volatile organic compounds.
[0061] In one embodiment, the material is or emits an allergen.
Examples of such materials include peanuts, tree nuts, peanut
butter, animal hair or animal grooming products, and the like.
[0062] In one embodiment, the material emits a volatile organic
compound (VOC). Optionally, the material is a liquid or solid. VOCs
often have adverse effects on health after short or long term
exposure. Optionally, the material is any of: organic solvents,
paint, cleaning supplies, pesticides, adhesives, permanent markers,
photographic solutions and the like. Optionally, the material
releases any of: benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, hexane,
cyclohexane, trimethylbenzene, acetone, ethyl alcohol, isopropyl
alcohol, methacrylates, ethyl acetate, tetrachloroethene, limonene,
a-pinene, isoprene, tetrahydrofuran, cyclohexane, methyl ethyl,
methylene chloride, butane, pentane, and formaldehyde.
[0063] In one embodiment, the material is an oxidation-prone
material. Wet activated charcoal preferentially removes oxygen from
the environment. Accordingly, a bag of the present invention can be
used to contain an oxidation-prone material. Oxidation-prone
materials include, for example, silver, silverware, metals,
electronics, mechanical devices, hardware, and oxidation-prone
chemicals. Other oxidation-prone materials are well known.
[0064] In one embodiment, the bag is reactivatable. Reactivation is
the desorption or elution of adsorbed odor molecules from the
activated charcoal. In one embodiment, the bag is configured as a
reactivatable bag and the method of using the bag comprises
periodically reactivating the activated charcoal. A reactivatable
bag is provided by providing bag layers, specifically the
non-porous layer, that are able to withstand reactivation
conditions, i.e. are heat-stable. Heat-resistant materials useful
for a non-porous layer are well known in the art (e.g.
polypropylene, nylon, PVC). A reactivatable bag can be reactivated,
for example by washing, heating, and/or steaming. Optionally the
bag is reactivatable by washing and then heating. For example, one
method of reactivating a reactivatable bag comprises a) washing the
bag with minimal water (e.g. dampening with a wet cloth; and b)
heating the bag (e.g. with forced hot air such as an electric blow
dryer). Optionally, washing comprises applying detergent (e.g.
using a damp cloth optionally with a very small amount of
detergent) and rinsing (e.g. applying water using a wet cloth).
Optionally, the bag is patted dry (e.g. with a dry cloth) before
heating. Although heat-resistant polymer films such as nylon or
polypropylene are able to withstand heating for a short time, they
may still be susceptible to deformation or damage if excessive heat
is applied. Accordingly, one method of heating comprises applying
forced hot air for a period of time only until cloth is dry to the
touch.
EXAMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0065] Among the various embodiments disclosed herein are the
examplary embodiments (EEs) provided below. [0066] 1. A containment
bag comprising an envelope having an opening, wherein: [0067] a.
the envelope wall comprises one or more layers of activated
charcoal cloth; [0068] b. the envelope wall comprises a closure
mechanism for closing the envelope about the opening. [0069] c.
optionally, the envelope wall comprises a non-porous layer. [0070]
2. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein the envelope wall comprises
two layers of activated charcoal cloth and a non-porous layer
positioned between the layers of activated charcoal cloth. [0071]
3. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein the envelope wall comprises
a flap configured for covering the closure mechanism. [0072] 4. The
containment bag of EE 3, wherein the bag comprises a holding
mechanism configured to hold the flap in position for said covering
the opening. [0073] 5. The containment bag of EE 4, wherein the
holding mechanism is selected from: a hook and loop mechanism, a
tongue and groove mechanism, a zipper, a track-type mechanism, a
non-track type mechanism, contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and a
magnet. [0074] 6. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein the closure
mechanism is selected from: a hook and loop closure, a tongue and
groove closure, a zipper, a track-type closures, non-track type
closures, contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and interacting magnetic
strips. [0075] 7. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein the bag is
rigid or flexible. [0076] 8. The containment bag of EE 1, wherein
the bag is provided as a liner for a rigid container. [0077] 9. The
containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the closure mechanism is
selected from: a hook and loop closure, a tongue and groove
closure, a zipper, a track-type closures, non-track type closures,
contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and interacting magnetic strips.
[0078] 10. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the
closure mechanism is selected from: a hook and loop closure, a
tongue and groove closure, a zipper, a track-type closures,
non-track type closures, contact adhesive, adhesive tape, and
interacting magnetic strips. [0079] 11. The containment bag of any
of EEs 1-8, wherein the closure mechanism comprises interacting
components positioned on opposing walls of the envelope and the
envelope further comprises a track type alignment tool configured
to position the interacting components in proximity to each other.
[0080] 12. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, further
comprising an inner flap of activated charcoal cloth, wherein the
inner flap is: [0081] a. in the lumen of envelope; [0082] b.
configured to cover the luminal side of the closure mechanism.
[0083] 13. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-6 and 8, wherein the
bag is rigid or flexible. [0084] 14. The containment bag of any of
EEs 1-7, wherein the bag is provided as a liner for a rigid
container. [0085] 15. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8,
wherein the bag comprises a non-porous layer made from a material
selected from: a polymer, a plastic, a thermoplastic, a metal, and
a non-porous film. [0086] 16. The containment bag of any of EEs
1-8, wherein the bag is reactivatable. [0087] 17. The containment
bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the envelope comprises a layer of
non porous material selected from: a polyolefin, polyalkylene, a
polyethylene, Polypropylene (PP), Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene
(BOPP), Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear low-density
polyethylene (LLDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), PolyVinyl
Chloride (PVC), Cellophane, vinylidene chloride (e.g. PVDC), PCTFE,
polyamide (nylons), a metal, and a coated polymer. [0088] 18. The
containment bag of any of EEs 9-12, wherein the envelope comprises
a layer of non porous material selected from: a polyolefin,
polyalkylene, Polypropylene (PP), Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene
(BOPP), a polyethylene, Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Linear
low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE),
PolyVinyl Chloride (PVC), Cellophane, vinylidene chloride (e.g.
PVDC), PCTFE, polyamide (nylons), a metal, and a coated polymer.
[0089] 19. The containment bag of any of EEs 9-12, wherein the bag
is reactivatable. [0090] 20. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8,
wherein the envelope is a sewn envelope. [0091] 21. The containment
bag of any of EEs 9-16 wherein the envelope is a sewn envelope.
[0092] 22. The containment bag of any of EEs 1-8, wherein the bag
is any size selected from the group consisting of: pocket size,
duffle bag size, and from pocket size to duffle bag size. [0093]
23. The containment bag of any of EEs 9-16, wherein the bag is any
size selected from the group consisting of: pocket size, duffle bag
size, and from pocket size to duffle bag size.
[0094] The citations provided herein are hereby incorporated by
reference for the cited subject matter.
EXAMPLES
Example 1
Containment Bag
[0095] FIG. 1 depicts a containment bag of the present invention
with a three-ply envelope and a double hook and loop closure
system. The open position is depicted in FIG. 1a. The closed
position is depicted in FIG. 1b
[0096] The bag comprises an envelope 1 having an opening 10 to
allow an odorous material (not shown) to be placed in the envelope
1. As a closure mechanism, the bag comprises a strip of hook 2 and
a strip of loop 3 on opposing segments of the envelope wall that
are joined together by the user to seal the envelope 1 about the
opening 10. The bag further comprises a flap 4 configured for
covering the opening and closure mechanism when the flap 4 is
folded over, as depicted in FIG. 1
[0097] When folded over, the flap is held in place snugly across
the opening 10 by a flap-holding mechanism such as a hook and loop
mechanism comprising a strip of hook 5 and a strip of loop 6.
[0098] The envelope 1 comprises a three-ply configuration, as
depicted in FIG. 2. FIG. 2a and FIG. 2b depict the top view and
side view, respectively, of the three-ply envelope 1. FIG. 2c
depicts an exploded view of the three-ply envelope 1.
[0099] The inner ply 7 and the outer ply 9 are each a layer of
activated charcoal. The inner ply 7 is Zorflex.TM.. The outer ply 9
is model #9003 from Freudenberg Non-Woven Group. A layer of
non-porous 1.5 mil polypropylene film is provided as middle ply 8,
sandwiched between the inner ply 7 and the outer ply 9. The use of
a thin 1.5 mil film produced a flexible envelope.
[0100] As depicted in FIG. 2c, the envelope 1 can be produced, for
example, by independently constructing the three plies 7, 8, 9,
then placing the middle ply 8 in the outer ply 9 and placing the
inner ply 7 in the middle ply 8. The inner ply 7 and outer ply 9
can then be sewn together. If stitching or stapling is used to sew
plies together, the inner and outer plies can be sewn together at
one or more edges without piercing the gas impermeable layer 8, for
example, the edges of the flap 4 and the edge at opening 10. This
insures that no passageways are formed in the non-porous layer that
might allow passage of odor molecules.
[0101] This bag provides superior odor-containment of an odorous
material placed inside the bag. This configuration provides several
superior properties: [0102] a. The three-ply configuration of the
envelope wall provides three independent stages of protection from
the escape of odor; [0103] b. The double hook and loop closure
system provides a closure mechanism to seal the envelope as well as
a flap of envelope wall to impart the three-stages of filtering
protection to the envelope seal.
Example 2
Duffel Bag
[0104] FIG. 3 depicts a containment bag of the present invention
with a three-ply envelope and a double closure system.
Specifically, the bag is a duffel bag with dimensions
12''.times.12''.times.24'' (when expanded). FIG. 3a depicts the
perspective view. FIG. 3b depicts the side view. FIG. 3c depicts a
magnified side view of bag portion at opening 12.
[0105] The envelope 11 is made from the same three-ply material
used in the bag detailed in Example 1. The bag comprises an opening
12 to allow an odorous material (not shown) to be placed inside. As
a closure mechanism 14, the bag comprises a strip of hook and a
strip of loop on opposing segments of the envelope 11. The bag
further comprises a flap 13 configured for covering the opening and
closure mechanism when the flap 4 is folded over, as depicted in
the figure. When folded over, the flap is held in place by a
flap-holding mechanism 15 such as a hook and loop mechanism
comprising a strip of hook and a strip of loop.
[0106] As an optional feature, the bag comprises a zipper 16 or
other sliding or track type alignment tool. The zipper is placed
alongside or parallel to the closure mechanism 14. Such a zipper
(or other slidable closure mechanism) can be used to ensure proper
alignment of interacting components (e.g. hook and loop) on
opposing segments of the envelope wall 11, which are manually
interlocked. Surprisingly, when combined with a closure mechanism
of the non-sliding or non-track type (e.g. hook and loop), this
sliding- or track-type alignment tool substantially reduces the
time required by the user to properly close the closure mechanism
14. Further, this tool substantially reduces user error when
closing the closure mechanism, ensuring proper containment of
odors. Such an alignment tool is especially useful when the opening
is larger, e.g. as common on duffel bags.
[0107] This bag provides superior odor-containment of an odorous
material placed inside the bag. This configuration provides several
superior properties: [0108] a. The three-ply configuration of the
envelope wall provides three independent stages of protection from
the escape of odor; [0109] b. The double hook and loop closure
system provides a closure mechanism to seal the envelope as well as
a flap of envelope wall to impart the three-stages of protection to
the envelope seal.
Example 3
Odor Containment--Human Smell Test
[0110] Human Smell Test 1.
[0111] Several bag designs were tested for their ability to contain
odors of odorous materials. Each of the bags comprised an envelope
having two opposing 6''.times.6'' walls attached at three of the
four edges, leaving an opening at one edge. A hook and loop closure
mechanism was provided along the inner edge at the opening. The bag
designs were as follows: [0112] A1. An envelope made from a single
layer of AC cloth. [0113] A2. A two-ply envelope made from two
layers of AC cloth. The bag included a double closure mechanism by
providing a flap formed by an extension of one of the envelope
walls at the edge having the opening, and providing a second hook
and loop mechanism on the flap portion to secure the flap tightly
over the opening. [0114] A3. A three-ply envelope, with the inner
and outer plies each made from a layer of activated charcoal cloth
and the intermediate ply made from a non-porous layer of 1.5 mil
polypropylene. [0115] A4. A bag according to Example 1. This bag
combined the double closure mechanism of the A2 bag with the
three-ply configuration of the A3 bag.
[0116] Each bag was filled with odorous materials having a sharp or
pungent smell and human participants attempted to detect any smell
originating from the bags. The bags were smelled by the
participants at two independent distances with respect to the
participant's nose: about six inches at less than 1 inch.
[0117] The results were as follows:
[0118] Each participant was able to detect and recognize smells
from Bags A1 and A2 when placed about 6 inches away. Participants
noted that the smells from bag A1 were stronger than from A2.
[0119] Surprisingly, participants could not detect any smells from
bags A3 or A4 when placed at 6 inches from their nose. This finding
indicates that a three-ply configuration comprising a non-porous
material such as polypropylene provides a superior bag.
[0120] Further surprising, however, is that when held at close
range (less than an inch) participants were able to detect smells
from bag A3 but not A4. This finding indicates that odors are able
to escape a single closure mechanism and that a double-closure
mechanism can be used to contain escaping odors.
[0121] Unexpectedly, only bag A4 was able to completely contain the
smell of all odorous materials at any distance. No participant
could detect an odor from bag A4 when any odorous material was
placed in the bag, even when the participants placed their noses
directly against the bag. This finding indicates that a superior
bag is obtained by providing a three-ply configuration, as taught
herein, with a double closure mechanism.
[0122] Human Smell Test 2.
[0123] Several 4''.times.6'' bags according to Example 1 were
independently filled with limburger cheese, a mixture of ripe
fruit, cinnamon, herbs, or canine feces. These test materials were
chosen because they are very odorous, having a sharp or pungent
smell and are known to be extremely unpleasant or otherwise easily
recognizable to humans. For the limburger cheese experiment, the
bag was filled with cheese and stored at room temperature for two
months in an attempt to increase the aroma and saturate the
filtering potential of the bag. Surprisingly, human participants
could not detect any smell from any bags of the present invention
when smelled from any distance. This data indicates that the bags
were able to contain the most pungent odors, even over a prolonged
period of storage.
Example 4
Odor Containment--Canine Smell Tests
[0124] Due to the availability of fruit-sniffing canines, ripe
fruits (mangos) were selected as a test odorous material in
canine-based smell tests.
[0125] Canine Experiment 1:
[0126] The following test envelopes were provided:
[0127] B1. A sandwich-sized polyethylene ZIP LOK.TM. baggie was
provided as a non-porous layer and filled with slices of mangos as
an odorous material. The ZIP LOK.TM. baggie was placed in a small
VHS-sized cardboard box. A layer of activated charcoal cloth was
wrapped around the small box and the cloth edges were sealed
together with strips of adhesive tape to provide a first closure
mechanism. A flap of the activated charcoal cloth was laid over the
first closure and sealed again with adhesive tape, thereby
providing a double closure mechanism.
[0128] B2. The testant was the same as B1 except that it included a
second layer of activated charcoal cloth.
[0129] B3. The testant was the same as B1 except that the activated
charcoal layer was washed and heat dried 10 times as 10 independent
reactivating procedures.
[0130] B4. The testant was the same as B1 except that it lacked the
layer of activated charcoal cloth.
[0131] All testants contained the same amount of sliced mango. To
insure that all testants were indistinguishable by sight, each
testant was placed in an identical medium sized cardboard box.
[0132] As negative controls, the following three testants were
provided: B5 included only the medium sized box. B6 included a
medium sized box filled with Styrofoam packing peanuts. B7 included
the medium sized box with a small VHS-sized cardboard box
inside.
[0133] Testants B1-B7 were filled with the odorous material and
stored for 24 hours at room temperature before testing. The
experiment was conducted as follows:
[0134] Testants B1-B7 were placed randomly on the floor with each
other, spaced apart enough that the participant could walk around
and inspect each box. The participant was a canine professionally
trained and used to sniff out and identify packages containing
fruit. The canine was allowed to inspect each testant in an attempt
to identify the boxes containing the fruit.
[0135] As expected, the canine did not identify the negative
controls. Surprisingly, the canine was not able to identify any of
testants B1-B3 but did identify testant B4 (by sitting down next to
the testant, as trained).
[0136] Canine Experiment 2:
[0137] A second fruit sniffing canine was used in this experiment.
A 6''.times.6'' bag according Example 1 was filled with slices of
apples and stored at room temperature for 24 hours. The bag was
placed on the floor in a confined area among other items which did
not contain fruit. The canine was allowed to search the area in an
attempt to identify fruit. The canine was allowed to inspect the
bag containing the fruit but, surprisingly, did not identify the
bag as containing fruit (did not sit down next to the bag). The bag
was opened and the test was repeated. The canine immediately
identified the open bag containing the fruit.
[0138] Canine Experiment 3
[0139] Third and fourth sniffing canines were used in this
experiment. A gallon sized non-porous polyethylene ZIP LOK.TM. bag
was filled with a mixture of fruit (sliced mango, sliced passion
fruit, sliced oranges, sliced apples, banana peels, sliced avocado
and sliced lemons) and placed in a 12''.times.12''.times.24''
duffel bag according to Example 2. The ZIP LOK bag was easily
identified as containing fruit by a human smell test before placing
the bag in the duffel bag. The duffel bag containing the fruit was
then stored at room temperature for 1 week prior to testing. This
storage period was performed to allow the fruit to gain aroma. The
storage period was also used in an attempt to saturate the
filtering capacity of the bag. After the storage period, the duffel
bag was smelled by a human tester, who could not detect any smell
from the bag, and then placed on the floor in a confined area among
other items which did not contain fruit. The canine was allowed to
search the area in an attempt to identify fruit. The canine
specifically inspected the duffel bag containing the fruit but,
surprisingly, did not react to the bag containing fruit (did not
sit down next to the bag). The bag was opened and the test was
repeated. The canine immediately reacted to the open bag containing
the fruit.
[0140] The results of the canine tests are indeed unexpected.
Canines have a sense of smell far superior to that of humans, able
to detect odor molecules on the order of 10 parts per billion to 10
parts per trillion. Canines have such an extraordinary sense of
smell, it is known to be nearly impossible, if not impossible, to
mask or hide odorous materials from these animals. Attempts to do
so typically involve serially vacuum sealing an odorous material a
number of times and masking scent using various methods. These
attempts have found limited success. Accordingly, it is quite
remarkable that reusable bags of the present invention, with
simple, resealable closures, were able to effectively contain the
smell of an odorous material from a canine trained to identify the
odorous material, even after prolonged storage.
* * * * *
References