U.S. patent application number 13/648258 was filed with the patent office on 2013-06-20 for dispenser system for flexible bags.
This patent application is currently assigned to CLEAR LAM PACKAGING, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is CLEAR LAM PACKAGING, INC.. Invention is credited to John E. SANFILIPPO, Javier SORIA.
Application Number | 20130153600 13/648258 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48609097 |
Filed Date | 2013-06-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130153600 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
SANFILIPPO; John E. ; et
al. |
June 20, 2013 |
DISPENSER SYSTEM FOR FLEXIBLE BAGS
Abstract
Embodiments relate to a dispenser including a container
including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle
portion containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a
pump; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the
chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the
first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a
first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a
second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness
characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic.
Inventors: |
SANFILIPPO; John E.;
(Barrington Hills, IL) ; SORIA; Javier; (West
Chicago, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CLEAR LAM PACKAGING, INC.; |
Elk Grove Village |
IL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
CLEAR LAM PACKAGING, INC.
Elk Grove Village
IL
|
Family ID: |
48609097 |
Appl. No.: |
13/648258 |
Filed: |
October 9, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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61544247 |
Oct 6, 2011 |
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|
61545990 |
Oct 11, 2011 |
|
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61556763 |
Nov 7, 2011 |
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61709018 |
Oct 2, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
222/95 ;
222/105 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B05C 17/00576 20130101;
B65D 75/5811 20130101; B05C 17/01 20130101; B05C 17/0126 20130101;
B05C 17/00583 20130101; B65D 35/30 20130101; B65D 75/5877 20130101;
B05C 17/00503 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/95 ;
222/105 |
International
Class: |
B65D 35/30 20060101
B65D035/30 |
Claims
1. A dispenser comprising: a container including a containment
portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an
actuating device to selectively actuate a pump, the containment
portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at
least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side
comprises at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness
characteristic and a second zone comprising a second tackiness
characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic
exceeds the second tackiness characteristic.
2. The dispenser of claim 1 further comprising a valve separate
from the pump, wherein the valve comprises one of the group
consisting of a flexible seal, a foam, an open cell foam and a
closed cell foam.
3. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the valve comprises a
mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive
to actuation of the pump.
4. The dispenser of claim 1 further comprising a barrier configured
to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation
of the pump.
5. The dispenser of claim 4 wherein the barrier comprises one of
the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a
flexible seal.
6. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first zone
and second zone may include an adhesive.
7. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first zone
and second zone may include a tacky polymer.
8. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first zone
and second zone may include tape.
9. The dispenser of claim 8 wherein the tape is a double sided
tape.
10. The dispenser of claim 1 further comprising at least one of a
flexible bag, a flexible package and a flexible container along at
least the first zone.
11. The dispenser of claim 10 wherein the at least one of the
flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container
having an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than
about 0.5.
12. The dispenser of claim 10 further comprising the at least one
flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container
having an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between
about 0.2 and 0.5.
13. The dispenser of claim 10 further comprising the flexible bag,
the flexible package and the flexible container having an inner
surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and
1.0.
14. The dispenser of claim 10 further comprising the at least one
flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container
having an inner and outer surface, the outer surface having a
higher coefficient of friction than the inner surface.
15. The dispenser of claim 10 further comprising the at least one
flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container
having an inner and outer surface, the outer surface in combination
with at least the first interior side having a lower coefficient of
friction than the inner surface.
16. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the pump comprises at least
one of a group consisting of a piston, a mechanical drive member, a
pneumatic drive member and an electrical drive member.
18. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the actuating device
incrementally actuates the pump.
19. The device of claim 18 wherein the pump is incrementally
advanced a predetermined amount.
20. The device of claim 18 wherein the pump is incrementally
reversed a predetermined amount.
21. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the first tackiness
characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist
a flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the
second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the
flexible bag slipping along the second zone.
22. A dispensing system comprising: a container including a
containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion
containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a pump; the
containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may
include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first
interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first
tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second
tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness
characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic; and at
least one of a flexible bag, a flexible package and a flexable
container sized to fit within the containment portion.
23. A dispensing system comprising: a container including a
containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion
containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump that
comprises at least one of a group consisting of a piston,
mechanical drive device, pneumatic drive device and electrical
drive device; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein
the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein
the first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising
a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a
second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness
characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic; and at
least one of a flexible bag, a flexible package and a flexible
container sized to fit within the containment portion, wherein
first zone partially holds to the flexible bag and wherein the
piston translates axially through the chamber and everts the
flexible bag.
24. A dispenser comprising: a container including a containment
portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an
actuation device to selectively actuate a pump, the containment
portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at
least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic
sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible
bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone.
25. The dispenser of claim 24 wherein the first tackiness
characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist
a flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone, and wherein
the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist a
flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone.
26. The dispenser of claim 24 further comprising a valve separate
from the pump.
27. The dispenser of claim 24 wherein the valve comprises at least
one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell
foam and a flexible seal.
28. The dispenser of claim 26 wherein the valve comprises a
mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive
to actuation of the pump.
29. The dispenser of claim 24 wherein the first zone comprises at
least one of a tacky polymer, an adhesive, tape, a high friction
material having a coefficient of friction greater than about
0.5.
30. The dispenser of claim 24 further comprising at least one
barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure
resulting from actuation of the pump.
31. The dispenser of claim 24 wherein the barrier comprises at
least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed
cell foam and a flexible seal.
32. A dispenser comprising: a container including a containment
portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an
actuation device to selectively actuate a pump, a flexible bag; and
wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone
comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to
the flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by
pulling away from the first zone.
33. A method of dispensing product comprising: receiving a flexible
bag containing product into a dispenser, the dispenser including a
containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion
containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump
including a piston, wherein the containment portion may include at
least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic
sufficient to hold to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible
bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone; bringing a
portion of the flexible bag into contact with the first zone;
translating the piston axially; pushing the piston against the
flexible bag; and everting the flexible bag responsive to the
pushing, wherein the everting comprises separating a portion of the
held flexible bag from the first zone and allowing at least a
portion of the detached flexible bag to be inserted into
itself.
34. A dispenser comprising: a container including a containment
portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an
actuator device to selectively actuate a pump, the containment
portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at
least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side
comprises a tackiness characteristic.
35. A dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a
product, the dispenser comprising: a housing having a first wall
and a second wall hingedly connected to the first wall and defining
a chamber having a first end and a second end enabling the flexible
bag to firmly adhere to a portion of at least one of the first wall
and second wall and loosely adhere to a portion of at least one
second wall and the first wall; a handle located proximate the
chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biased
actuating device; a piston positioned in the chamber and actionably
coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap adapted to
be removably, rotatably received by the housing proximate the
second end, the end cap defining at least one opening adapted to
allow flow in only one direction.
36. The dispenser of claim 35 wherein the piston is a segmented
piston.
37. The dispenser of claim 35 wherein the at least one outlet
having a valve fitment that allows product to flow there through in
only one direction.
38. The dispenser of claim 35 further comprising the outlet having
a predetermined shape allowing product to flow there though in only
one direction.
39. The dispenser of claim 35 further comprising a tacky portion
mounted to at least one of the first wall and the second wall.
40. The dispenser of claim 35 further comprising the end cap
rotatably connected to the housing.
41. The dispenser of claim 35 further comprising a lock securing
the first wall and the second wall.
42. A dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a
product contained in the flexible bag, the dispenser comprising: a
housing having a first wall and a second wall movably connected to
the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a
second end; a tacky portion contacting the housing enabling the
flexible bag to firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky
portion and loosely adhere to a second portion of the tacky
portion; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and
having a reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented piston
positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the
actuating device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a
reversible manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and
dispense the product; and an end cap adapted to be removably
received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap
defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one
direction, wherein the handle and segmented piston act in concert,
such that upon applying pressure to the flexible bag, everting the
flexible bag and dispensing a predetermined amount of the product,
and upon completion of dispensing a predetermined amount of the
product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag,
preventing the product from weeping.
43. A dispenser adapted to dispense a product, the dispenser
comprising: a housing having a first wall and a second wall movably
connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first
end and a second end; a flexible bag received in the chamber and
adapted to dispense a product upon application of pressure thereto;
a tacky portion mounted to the housing enabling the flexible bag to
firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky portion and loosely
adhere to a second portion of the tacky portion; a handle located
proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a
reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented piston positioned
in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating
device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a reversible
manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and dispense the
product; and an end cap adapted to be removably received by the
housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one
outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction, wherein the
handle and segmented piston act in concert, such that upon applying
pressure to the flexible bag that flexible bag everts dispensing a
predetermined amount of the product, and upon completion of
dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, relieves any
residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing the product
weeping.
44. A method for dispensing a product using a dispenser adapted to
receive a flexible bag comprising: the dispenser comprising: a
housing having a first wall and a second wall hingedly connected to
the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a
second end; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and
having a trigger and a reversely biased actuating device; a tacky
portion mounted to the housing having a first portion and a second
portion; a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and
actionably coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap
adapted to be removably, rotatably received by the housing
proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet
adapted to allow flow in only one direction; the flexible bag
formed from a film comprising: a first edge; a first surface, the
first surface having a first static coefficient; a second surface
opposite the first surface, the second surface having a static
coefficient of friction greater than the first static coefficient;
the second surface firmly adhering to the first portion of the
tacky portion and loosely adhering to the second portion of the
tacky portion; and wherein the at least one layer is joined along
at least the first edge and defining a tearing direction that
allows the flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing
direction; the method comprising: removing the end cap; moving the
first wall away from the secong wall, opening the dispenser and
exposing at least the chamber; positioning the flexible bag in the
chamber such that at least the tear strip extends from the
dispenser; moving the first wall towards the second wall, closing
the dispenser; opening the tear strip in the tearing direction;
placing the end cap on the dispenser; and actuating the actuating
device.
Description
CLAIM FOR PRIORITY
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 61/544,247 filed Oct. 6, 2011 titled
"Dispensing System for Flexible Bags": U.S. Provisional Application
Ser. No. 61/545,990 filed Oct. 11, 2011 titled "Dispensing System
for Flexible Bags": U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.
61/556,763 filed Nov. 7, 2011 titled "Film for Flexible Bags"; and
U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/709,018 filed Oct. 2, 2012
titled "Film for Flexible Bags" the complete subject matter of each
of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention generally relates dispensers. More
particularly, embodiments relate to a dispenser that uses flexible
bags and containers containing product that prevent weeping of the
product.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The ability to dispense a controlled quantity of a
condiment, such as ketchup, mustard, relish, salad dressings, hot
wings sauce, spaghetti sauce, tartar sauce or other sauces, in an
efficient manner has been important in the food service industry
for many years. This is especially true for large volume food
handling operations such as fast food restaurants, where employees
and customers desire the ability to dispense condiments quickly and
conveniently, and where even a marginal reduction in the waste of,
or time required to dispense, condiments leads to significant
savings in cost. Additionally, use of substantially all the
condiment in a bag can lead to reduced costs and reduced waste.
[0004] Dispensing condiments from large, flexible plastic bags is
advantageous. Condiments can be easily packaged in flexible bags at
a central facility and shipped to the point of sale. Bulk plastic
containers can incorporate gas barriers that allow condiments to be
packaged so that they can be stored at room temperature, which
makes the packages more convenient to ship and store. Storing the
condiments at room temperature saves time when it is desirable that
the condiment be served at room temperature by eliminating the
requirement that the condiment be allowed to warm from a
refrigerated temperature before use. Flexible plastic bags are a
common form of packaging for food and thus are readily handled by
employees without special training. Further, storing the condiments
at room temperature reduces the expense of refrigeration. In
addition, bags are often more cost effective, easier to dispose of,
occupy less storage space if desired or needed and can still be
refrigerated.
[0005] Historically, many products and condiments have been shipped
and stored in tin cans, often #10 tin cans. While tin cans offer
good shelf life performance, tin cans contribute to waste of
product that clings to the side of cans. Further, tin cans are
heavy to ship, store, and are heavy and voluminous for disposal.
Additionally, tin cans require can openers to open--retrieving the
opener reduces operational speed, and the opener may be difficult
to locate, further reducing efficiency. Opening tin cans may also
result in sharp edges that may tear garbage bags and pose a
laceration risk.
[0006] Other historical containers may include gallon jugs and
caulk cartridge type cans. However, gallon jugs contribute to waste
in the same fashion as tin cans, and share many of the negative
attributes of tin cans. Caulk cartridge type cans leave less
product in the canister, but require priming of each can and may
also generate significant wasted product. For example, a 25-ounce
cartridge delivering a one-ounce payload may waste 4% of the
product due to priming. However, caulk cartridge type cans may not
be hermetically sealed, may be more expensive and may take up more
room in a landfill.
[0007] Devices attempting to efficiently dispense condiments from
bulk flexible plastic bags exist, including devices that use
rollers advanced by gravity, by gears or rack and pinion means to
squeeze condiment out of the plastic bags, but these devices have
several disadvantages. Devices that use gravity actuated rollers or
gears are complicated to manufacture and may involve manipulating
the rollers in non-intuitive ways. Other devices that utilize more
complex means for releasing condiment from the bags require that
the bags incorporate specially designed fittings, including tubes
and couplings, which increase the cost and complexity of the
packaging and add to product waste during cleanup. Yet other
devices use motorized pumps that require electricity and possibly
pressurized gases to operate, which adds to the cost and size of
the dispensers, increasing manufacturing costs and adding
complexity during cleaning. Further, pumps may result in undesired
splatter, which both wastes product, as well as work effort to
clean the splatter. If a pump in the front of the store splatters,
customers may become unhappy. Motorized devices often require long
tubes that contribute to waste of the condiment and complicate
clean up. Furthermore, existing types of dispensers have a single
outlet for the condiment, which reduces efficiency at workstations
where multiple outlets can be accommodated. Additionally, tubes
reduce the range of movement and freedom of motion of the
applicator device. Additionally, devices using pressurized gas rely
on the gas, and in event of gas malfunction, or lack of gas supply,
the device is non-functional.
[0008] Other devices utilize fitments that require significant
expense, and contribute to waste if the fitment is improperly
fitted. For example, a plastic fitment is used to provide a valve
to a flexible bag. For use, the fitment must be separately
manufactured, and heat sealed to a flexible bag.
[0009] The ability to reduce waste by reducing the amount of
material left on the inside of the container is desirable.
[0010] The present invention advances the art.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] In at least one embodiment the open dispenser 500 is
configured to receive a flexible container (such as flexible bag
400 for example) such that the valve is positioned extending
between two opposing ends of the dispenser 500 using one or more
positioning devices. The door is closed, such that only the
weakened portion and tear strip of the flexible bag extends
thereform.
[0012] In at least one embodiment, the flexible bag includes a
weakened area formed using a perforation a laser score on one or
more side, forming a tear strip having a tearing direction. The
flexible bag is opened along the tear strip in the tearing
direction. The end cap is then secured to the dispenser, enabling
dispensing of the product and preventing the product from leaking
into the chamber (i.e., backflow).
[0013] One embodiment, relates to a dispenser including a container
having a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle
portion containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a
pump. The containment portion defines a chamber, wherein the
chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the
first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a
first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a
second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness
characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The
dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump, wherein the
valve comprises one of the group consisting of a flexible seal, a
foam, an open cell foam and a closed cell foam. The valve may
comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve
responsive to actuation of the pump. The dispenser may include a
barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure
resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises
one of the group consisting of open cell foam, closed cell foam and
a flexible seal. At least one of the first zone and second zone may
include an adhesive, a tacky polymer, tape and/or double sided
tape. The dispenser may include at least one of a flexible bag, a
flexible package and a flexible container along at least the first
zone, where the at least of the flexible bag, the flexible package
and the flexible container have an inner surface with a coefficient
of friction less than about 0.5, a coefficient of friction between
about 0.2 and 0.5 or a coefficient of friction between about 0.1
and 1.0. Additionally the at least one flexible bag, the flexible
package and the flexible container have an inner and outer surface,
the outer surface having a higher coefficient of friction than the
inner surface or the outer surface in combination with the first
interior side having a lower coefficient of friction than the inner
surface. The dispenser may include the pump having at least one of
a group consisting of a piston, a mechanical drive member, a
pneumatic drive member and an electrical drive member. The
actuating device incrementally actuates the pump advancing the
actuating device a predetermined amount and/or incrementally
reversing a predetermined amount. The first tackiness
characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist
a flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the
second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the
flexible bag slipping along the second zone.
[0014] Still another embodiment relates to a dispensing system
including a container including a containment portion and a handle
portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to
selectively actuate a pump that includes at least one of a group
consisting of a piston, mechanical drive device, pneumatic drive
device and electrical drive device; the containment portion
defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a
first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises
at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic and
a second zone includes a second tackiness characteristic, such that
the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness
characteristic; and a flexible bag sized to substantially fit
within the containment portion, wherein first zone partially holds
to the flexible bag and wherein the piston translates axially
through the chamber and everts the flexible bag. The first
tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient
to resist the flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone,
and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient
to resist the flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone.
The system further includes a valve separate from the pump, where
the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open
cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may
include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve
responsive to actuation of the pump. The system includes at least
one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure
resulting from actuation of the pump, where the barrier comprises
at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed
cell foam and a flexible seal. The flexible bag may include an
inner surface with a coefficient less than about 0.5, an inner
surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5 or
an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2
and 0.5. DD One other embodiment relates to a dispenser including a
container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the
handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively
actuate a pump, the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein
the chamber may include at least a first zone includes a first
tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag
while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the
first zone. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of
tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at
least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness
characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping
along at least the second zone. The dispenser includes a valve
separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least one of
the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a
flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for
selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the
pump. The first zone comprises at least one of a tacky polymer, an
adhesive, tape, a high friction material having a coefficient of
friction greater than about 0.5. The dispenser includes at least
one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure
resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises
at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed
cell foam and a flexible seal.
[0015] One other embodiment relates to a dispenser including a
container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the
handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively
actuate a pump, the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein
the chamber may include at least a first zone includes a first
tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag
while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the
first zone. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of
tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at
least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness
characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping
along at least the second zone. The dispenser includes a valve
separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least one of
the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a
flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for
selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the
pump. The first zone comprises at least one of a tacky polymer, an
adhesive, tape, a high friction material having a coefficient of
friction greater than about 0.5. The dispenser includes at least
one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure
resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises
at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed
cell foam and a flexible seal.
[0016] A dispenser includes a container including a containment
portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an
actuation device to selectively actuate a pump; a flexible bag; and
wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone
includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to
the flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by
pulling away from the first zone. The dispenser further includes a
valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least
one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell
foam and a flexible seal. The valve may include a mechanical device
for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the
pump. The dispenser further includes at least one barrier
configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from
actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises at least one
of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam
and a flexible seal. The may include an inner surface with a
coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, an inner surface with
a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5, or an inner
surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. A
method of dispensing product includes receiving a flexible bag
containing product into a dispenser, the dispenser including a
containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion
containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump
including a piston, wherein the containment portion may include at
least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic
sufficient to hold to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible
bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone; bringing a
portion of the flexible bag into contact with the first zone;
translating the piston axially; pushing the piston against the
flexible bag; and everting the flexible bag responsive to the
pushing, wherein the everting comprises separating a portion of the
held flexible bag from the first zone and allowing at least a
portion of the detached flexible bag to be inserted into itself.
The method includes dispensing product through a valve, wherein the
everting comprises translating a piston axially such that the
piston presses into the flexible bag such that an outer surface of
the flexible bag detaches from the first zone responsive to the
translation and enters an interior of the bag such that a first
area of an inner surface of the flexible bag is brought into
proximity with a second area of the inner surface, and wherein at
least a portion of the flexible bag translates responsive to
translation of the piston. A dispensing system includes a container
including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle
portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a
pump; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the
chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the
first interior side comprises at least a first zone includes a
first tackiness characteristic; a flexible bag sized to
substantially fit within the containment portion, and wherein the
flexible bag may include an inner and outer wall, the outer wall
includes a third tackiness characteristic, wherein the inner
surface has a coefficient of friction less than about 0.2 and
0.5.
[0017] A dispenser includes a container including a containment
portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an
actuator device to selectively actuate a pump; the containment
portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at
least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side
comprises a tackiness characteristic. The tackiness characteristic
provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag
slipping along at least one portion of the first interior side and
not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along another
portion of the first interior side. The flexible bag has an inner
surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, an
inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and
0.5, or a coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and 1.0. The
flexible bag may include at least a first zone including a first
tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag
while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the
first zone. The flexible bag may include a second zone includes a
second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness
characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The
flexible bag has opposing first and second ends, wherein the
tackiness characteristic is spaced from at least one of the first
and second ends.
[0018] A dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a
product, the dispenser includes a housing having a first wall and a
second wall hingedly connected to the first wall and defining a
chamber having a first end and a second end enabling the flexible
bag to firmly adhere to a portion of at least one of the first wall
and second wall and loosely adhere to a portion of at least one
first wall and the second wall; a handle located proximate the
chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biased
actuating device; a piston positioned in the chamber and actionably
coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap adapted to
be removably, rotatably received by the housing proximate the
second end, the end cap defining at least one opening adapted to
allow flow in only one direction. The piston is a segmented piston.
The dispenser includes at least one outlet having a valve fitment
that allows product to flow there through in only one direction
and/or having a predetermined shape allowing product to flow there
though in only one direction. The dispenser may include a tacky
portion mounted to at least one of the first wall and the second
wall.
[0019] Another embodiment includes a dispenser adapted to receive a
flexible bag and dispense a product contained in the flexible bag,
the dispenser including a housing having a first wall and a second
wall movably connected to the first wall and defining a chamber
having a first end and a second end; a tacky portion contacting the
housing enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a first
portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhere to a second portion
of the tacky portion; a handle located proximate the chamber first
end and having a reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented
piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least
the actuating device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a
reversible manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and
dispense the product; and an end cap adapted to be removably
received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap
defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one
direction, wherein the handle and segmented piston act in concert,
such that upon applying pressure to the flexible bag, everting the
flexible bag and dispensing a predetermined amount of the product,
and upon completion of dispensing a predetermined amount of the
product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag,
preventing the product from weeping. The at least one outlet has a
valve fitment that allows product to flow there through in only one
direction and/or includes the outlet having a predetermined shape
allowing product to flow there though in only one direction. The
tacky portion is mounted to at least one of the first wall and the
second wall. An end cap is rotatably connected to the housing. The
second wall is moveably connected to the first wall via at least
one hinge. The dispenser includes a lock securing the first wall
and the second wall. The handle further includes a trigger.
[0020] A dispenser adapted to dispense a product, the dispenser
includes a housing having a first wall and a second d wall movably
connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first
end and a second end; a flexible bag received in the chamber and
adapted to dispense a product upon application of pressure thereto;
a tacky portion mounted to the housing enabling the flexible bag to
firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky portion and loosely
adhere to a second portion of the tacky portion; a handle located
proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a
reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented piston positioned
in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating
device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a reversible
manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and dispense the
product; and an end cap adapted to be removably received by the
housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one
outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction, wherein the
handle and segmented piston act in concert, such that upon applying
pressure to the flexible bag that flexible bag everts dispensing a
predetermined amount of the product, and upon completion of
dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, relieves any
residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing the product
weeping.
[0021] One other embodiment relates to a method for dispensing a
product using a dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag
includes a housing having a first wall and a second wall hingedly
connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first
end and a second end; a handle located proximate the chamber first
end and having a trigger and a reversely biased actuating device; a
tacky portion mounted to the housing having a first portion and a
second portion; a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and
actionably coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap
adapted to be removably, rotatably received by the housing
proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet
adapted to allow flow in only one direction; the flexible bag
formed from a film includes: a first edge; a first surface, the
first surface having a first static coefficient; a second surface
opposite the first surface, the second surface having a static
coefficient of friction greater than the first static coefficient;
the second surface firmly adhering to the first portion of the
tacky portion and loosely adhering to the second portion of the
tacky portion; and wherein the at least one layer is joined along
at least the first edge and defining a tearing direction that
allows the flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing
direction; the method includes removing the end cap; moving the
first wall away from the secong wall, opening the dispenser and
exposing at least the chamber; positioning the flexible bag in the
chamber such that at least the tear strip extends from the
dispenser; moving the first wall towards the second wall, closing
the dispenser; opening the tear strip in the tearing direction;
placing the end cap on the dispenser; and actuating the actuating
device.
[0022] Still another embodiment relates to a film used to form a
flexible bag including at least one layer adapted to be folded over
on itself without cracking, the at least one layer includes at
least one edge; a first surface; a second surface opposite the
first surface, at least one of the first or second surface having a
coefficient of friction less than 0.5; and wherein the at least one
layer is adapted to be joined along the at least one edge, forming
the flexible bag and scored, forming a weakened portion. At least
one of the first and second surfaces has a coefficient of friction
between about 0.2 and 0.5. 93.
[0023] The first surface has a static coefficient of friction less
than 0.5 and the second surface has a static coefficient of
friction greater than 0.5.
[0024] The flexible bag formed from a film comprising includes at
least one layer adapted to be folded upon itself without cracking,
the at least one layer includes a first edge and a second edge; a
first surface, the first surface having a static coefficient of
friction less than 0.5; a second surface opposite the first
surface, the second surface having a static coefficient of friction
greater than 0.5; and wherein the at least one layer is joined
along at least the first edge, forming the flexible bag and the
second end is scored defining a tearing direction that allows the
flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing direction. The
first surface has a static coefficient of friction between about
0.2 and 0.5. The flexible bag includes at least a first zone of at
least the first surface resists the film slipping along the first
zone and a second zone of the second surface does not resist the
film slipping along the second zone. The flexible bag further
includes at least one location device, comprises at least one hole
and/or at least one location device comprises at least one marking
on the bag.
[0025] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the
invention will become further apparent from the following detailed
description of the presently preferred embodiments, read in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The detailed
description and drawings are merely illustrative of the invention
rather than limiting, the scope of the invention can be defined by
the appended the claims and equivalents thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 2 is top view of the dispenser of FIG. 1;
[0028] FIG. 3 is side view of the dispenser of FIG. 1;
[0029] FIG. 4 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 1;
[0030] FIG. 5 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 1;
[0031] FIG. 6 is a perspective view in accordance with another
embodiment of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a dispenser of FIG. 6;
[0033] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a dispenser of FIG. 6;
[0034] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a dispenser of FIG. 6;
[0035] FIG. 10 is top view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;
[0036] FIG. 11 is bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;
[0037] FIG. 12 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;
[0038] FIG. 13 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;
[0039] FIG. 14 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;
[0040] FIG. 15 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention;
[0041] FIG. 16 is side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 15;
[0042] FIG. 17 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 15;
[0043] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible bag taken
along line A-A of FIG. 17;
[0044] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG.
15;
[0045] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG.
15;
[0046] FIG. 21 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 15;
[0047] FIG. 22 is an top view of the flexible bag and dispenser in
accordance with one embodiment;
[0048] FIG. 23 is a side view of the flexible bag and dispenser of
FIG. 22;
[0049] FIG. 24 is an end view of the flexible bag and
dispenser;
[0050] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the end view of the
flexible bag and dispenser of FIG. 24 taken along line A-A;
[0051] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the flexible bag and
dispenser of FIG. 22;
[0052] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the flexible bag and
dispenser of FIG. 22;
[0053] FIG. 28 is an end view of the flexible bag and dispenser of
FIG. 22;
[0054] FIG. 29 is an oblique view of the chamber in accordance with
one embodiment;
[0055] FIG. 30 is a sectional view of the dispenser in accordance
with the embodiment;
[0056] FIG. 31 is an oblique view of the chamber in accordance with
one embodiment;
[0057] FIG. 32 is an oblique view of the chamber and flexible bag
in accordance with one embodiment;
[0058] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the chamber and flexible
bag in accordance with one embodiment;
[0059] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a barrier in accordance
with one embodiment;
[0060] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a barrier in accordance
with one embodiment;
[0061] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of another flexible bag in
accordance with one embodiment;
[0062] FIG. 37 is an oblique view of the dispenser similar to that
of FIG. 22 having the flexible bag of FIG. 36 positioned
therein;
[0063] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a flexible bag in
accordance with another embodiment;
[0064] FIG. 39 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 38;
[0065] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a flexible bag in
accordance with yet another embodiment;
[0066] FIG. 41 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG.
40;
[0067] FIG. 42 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 40;
[0068] FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a flexible bag in
accordance with still another embodiment;
[0069] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a flexible bag in
accordance with still yet another embodiment;
[0070] FIG. 45 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 44;
[0071] FIG. 46 is an opposing end view of the flexible bag of FIG.
45;
[0072] FIG. 47 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with
one other embodiment;
[0073] FIG. 48 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 47;
[0074] FIG. 49 is an oblique view of the flexible bag of FIG.
47;
[0075] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the dispenser similar to
that of FIG. 6 having the flexible bag of FIG. 47 positioned
therein;
[0076] FIG. 51 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with
another embodiment;
[0077] FIG. 52 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with
some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0078] FIG. 53 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with
the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0079] FIG. 54 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with
the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0080] FIG. 55 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG.
51 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0081] FIG. 56 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with
some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0082] FIG. 57 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG.
51 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0083] FIG. 58 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51
with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0084] FIG. 59 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51
with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0085] FIG. 60 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51
with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0086] FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51
with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0087] FIG. 62 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with
another embodiment;
[0088] FIG. 63 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with
some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0089] FIG. 64 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with
the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0090] FIG. 65 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with
the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0091] FIG. 66 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG.
62 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0092] FIG. 67 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with
some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0093] FIG. 68 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG.
62 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0094] FIG. 69 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62
with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0095] FIG. 70 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62
with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0096] FIG. 71 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62
with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0097] FIG. 72 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62
with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0098] FIG. 73 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with
another embodiment;
[0099] FIG. 74 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with
some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0100] FIG. 75 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with
the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0101] FIG. 76 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with
the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0102] FIG. 77 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG.
73 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0103] FIG. 78 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with
some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0104] FIG. 79 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG.
73 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
[0105] FIG. 80 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73
with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0106] FIG. 81 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73
with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;
[0107] FIG. 82 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73
with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;
and
[0108] FIG. 83 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73
with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines.
[0109] FIG. 84 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention with some of the fold
lines illustrated;
[0110] FIG. 85 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some
of the fold lines illustrated;
[0111] FIG. 86 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.
84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0112] FIG. 87 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some
of the fold lines illustrated;
[0113] FIG. 88 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some
of the fold lines illustrated;
[0114] FIG. 89 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0115] FIG. 90 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.
84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0116] FIG. 91 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.
84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0117] FIG. 92 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0118] FIG. 93 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.
84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0119] FIG. 94 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.
84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0120] FIG. 95 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention without some of the
fold lines illustrated;
[0121] FIG. 96 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0122] FIG. 97 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG.
95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0123] FIG. 98 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0124] FIG. 99 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0125] FIG. 100 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 95
without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0126] FIG. 101 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0127] FIG. 102 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0128] FIG. 103 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 95
without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0129] FIG. 104 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0130] FIG. 105 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0131] FIG. 106 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention with some of the fold
lines illustrated;
[0132] FIG. 107 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0133] FIG. 108 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0134] FIG. 109 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0135] FIG. 110 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0136] FIG. 111 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0137] FIG. 112 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0138] FIG. 113 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0139] FIG. 114 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 106
with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0140] FIG. 115 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0141] FIG. 116 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0142] FIG. 117 is a perspective view of an open dispenser in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention with some
of the fold lines illustrated;
[0143] FIG. 118 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0144] FIG. 119 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0145] FIG. 120 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0146] FIG. 121 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0147] FIG. 122 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0148] FIG. 123 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0149] FIG. 124 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0150] FIG. 125 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 117
with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0151] FIG. 126 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0152] FIG. 127 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0153] FIG. 128 is a perspective view of an open dispenser in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention without
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0154] FIG. 129 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0155] FIG. 130 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0156] FIG. 131 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0157] FIG. 132 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0158] FIG. 133 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 128
without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0159] FIG. 134 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0160] FIG. 135 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0161] FIG. 136 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 128
without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0162] FIG. 137 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0163] FIG. 138 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0164] FIG. 139 is a perspective view of an open dispenser in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention with some
of the fold lines illustrated;
[0165] FIG. 140 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0166] FIG. 141 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0167] FIG. 142 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0168] FIG. 143 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0169] FIG. 144 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with
some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0170] FIG. 145 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0171] FIG. 146 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0172] FIG. 147 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 139
with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0173] FIG. 148 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0174] FIG. 149 is another perspective view of the dispenser of
FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;
[0175] Throughout the various figures, like reference numbers refer
to like elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0176] FIGS. 1-6 depict one embodiment of a dispenser in accordance
with the present invention; while FIGS. 7-14 depict another
embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with another embodiment of
the present invention.
[0177] FIGS. 1-14 illustrate a dispenser 100 that may include a
container 110 including a containment portion 105 and a handle
portion 115. Handle portion 115 may include a trigger or actuating
device 116 to selectively actuate a pump. Alternative embodiments
of dispensers in accordance with the invention are illustrated in
FIGS. 6-13, and other arrangements and shapes are possible. As
illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6, dispenser 100 may include a first
wall 120 and a second wall 125 that are hingedly connected. In one
embodiment, dispenser 100 further comprising a valve 450 separate
from the pump, as seen in FIGS. 5-7 and 14. Although FIGS. 5-7 and
14 illustrate valve 450 as including a plurality of outlets 455
arranged substantially circularly, any number of outlets 455, and
any number of geometric configurations of the outlets 455 can be
used. In one such embodiment, a single outlet 455 is positioned at
a center of a circle defined by the container 110.
[0178] FIGS. 1-14 illustrate the dispenser 100 of FIG. 1 in a
closed configuration including container 110 including a
containment portion 105 and a handle portion 115. Handle portion
115 may include an actuating device 116 to selectively actuate a
pump. While an actuating device 116 is depicted and means for
selectively actuating the pump is contemplated including any
mechanical, pneumatic or electrical drive device is contemplated.
FIGS. 5-7 and 14 illustrate valve 450 including a plurality of
outlets 455.
[0179] FIGS. 29-31 illustrate the dispenser 100 of FIGS. 1-14 in an
open configuration. Containment portion 105 defines a chamber 309.
Chamber 309 may include at least a first interior side 311 that
comprises at least a first zone 312 comprising a first tackiness
characteristic (represented by T.sub.1) and a second zone 313
comprising a second tackiness characteristic (represented by
T.sub.2), such that the first tackiness characteristic is greater
than or exceeds the second tackiness characteristic, such that
T.sub.1>T.sub.2. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 29-30,
first zone 312 and second zone 313 are positioned on opposing ends
of chamber 309, but FIG. 31 illustrates at least one embodiment,
where first zone 312 and second zone 313 are located at one end of
chamber 309 and second zone 313 is positioned at the opposing end
thereof. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 31, a ring or seal
is positioned in the dispenser proximate the outlet and/or valve to
prevent backflow in to the chamber for example,
[0180] In at least one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15-21,
dispenser 100 is configured to receive a flexible container 315, a
pre-filled disposable flexible bag for example. Flexible container
315 may include a first end 320, a second end 325, and wall 330
extending there between, where at least wall 330 contacts or
engages first interior side 311 and/or first zone 312 and second
zone 313. First end 320, second end 325 and wall 330 define a pouch
adapted to be filled and the container 315 sealed. In at least one
embodiment, flexible container 315 is in fluid communication with
at least valve 450 and/or outlets 455. In one or more embodiments,
the flexible container 315 includes a connector or ring 322 which
acts as a fitment, creating a passage between the flexible bag 314
and valve 450 and/or outlets 455, sealing the passage thereby
preventing the product from leaking into the chamber 309 (i.e.,
backflow).
[0181] FIGS. 15-21 depict flexible bag 315 having tape 318, where
the tape 318 may include single-sided or double-sided tape or the
like, fixed to one or more portions of wall 330. As illustrated,
tape 318 includes double-sided tape fixed to opposing sides of wall
330 and adapted to contact the first zone 312 and/or second zone
313. However, different embodiments are contemplated. For example
the tape 318 may include double-sided tape to only one portion of
wall 330 or on three or more sides of wall 330. Additional
embodiments include tape 318 comprising a single-sided tape adapted
to be secured by the containment portion 105 for example.
[0182] In at least one embodiment, the first tackiness
characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist
the flexible container 315 slipping along the first zone, and
wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to
resist the flexible bag 315 slipping along the second zone.
[0183] FIGS. 5-7 and 14 illustrate valve 450 including a plurality
of outlets 45. In one embodiment, the valve 450 comprises a
mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive
to actuation of the pump.
[0184] FIGS. 15-21 depict an embodiment of the flexible bag in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; while
FIGS. 22-28 are views of the flexible bag and dispenser in
accordance with one embodiment. FIGS. 34 & 35 depict a barrier
in accordance with one embodiment.
[0185] One embodiment relates to a dispenser including a container.
The container may include a containment portion and a handle
portion, the handle portion containing an actuating device to
selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a
chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior
side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a
first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second
zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the
first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness
characteristic.
[0186] The dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump.
The valve may comprise a flexible seal, foam, open cell foam,
and/or closed cell foam. In at least one embodiment, the valve may
include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve
responsive to actuation of the pump.
[0187] The dispenser may include a barrier configured to open
responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the
pump. The barrier may include one of the group consisting of an
open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.
[0188] At least one of the first zone and second zone may include
an adhesive, a tacky polymer and/or a tape, a double sided tape for
example. The adhesive, tacky polymer and/or tape may be arranged
along the entire first and second zone or some portion thereof.
Further, the adhesive, tacky polymer and/or tape may be arranged in
a pattern along the first and second zone or some portion thereof,
including, for example, helical, longitudinal, horizontal and the
like.
[0189] The dispenser may further include a flexible bag along at
least the first zone, the flexible bag having an inner surface with
a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5 (either filled or
empty) but in one or more embodiments the coefficient of friction
for the inner surface of the bag may between about 0.2 and 0.5
(either filled or empty).
[0190] The dispenser may include the pump having at least one of
the group consisting of a piston, mechanical drive member,
pneumatic drive member and an electrical drive member. The
dispenser may include the actuating device incrementally actuating
the pump, where the pump is incrementally advanced and/or reversed
a predetermined amount. The predetermined amount may be preset or
selectable by the user.
[0191] The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of
tackiness sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the
first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not
sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the second
zone.
[0192] The actuating device may include one of a group consisting
of a actuating device, a button and a squeeze mechanism.
[0193] Yet another embodiment relates to a system including a
container having a containment portion and a handle portion, the
handle portion containing an actuating device to selectively
actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a chamber, wherein
the chamber may include at least a first interior side. The first
interior side may include at least a first zone having a first
tackiness characteristic and a second zone having a second
tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness
characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The
system further may include a flexible bag sized to substantially
fit within the containment portion, extending along the entire
length of the chamber or a portion thereof.
[0194] The pump may include at least one of the group of a piston,
mechanical drive member, pneumatic drive member and electrical
drive member.
[0195] The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of
tackiness sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the
first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not
sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the second
zone.
[0196] The system may include the valve separate from the pump,
where the valve may include at least one of the group consisting of
an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.
Alternatively the valve may include a mechanical device for
selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the
pump.
[0197] The system may include a barrier configured to open
responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the
pump. The barrier may include one of the group consisting of an
open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.
[0198] Still another embodiment relates to a system including a
container. The container may include a containment portion and a
handle portion. The handle portion contains an actuation device to
selectively actuate a pump that comprises at least one of a group
consisting of a piston, mechanical drive device, pneumatic drive
device and electrical drive device. The containment portion defines
a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first
interior side. The first interior side may include at least a first
zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone
comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first
tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness
characteristic. A flexible bag may be sized to substantially fit
within the containment portion, extending along the entire length
or a portion thereof, wherein the first zone partially adheres to
the flexible bag and wherein the piston translates axially through
the chamber and everts the flexible bag.
[0199] The first tackiness characteristic of the system provides a
degree of tackiness sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping
along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness
characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag
slipping along the second zone.
[0200] The valve of the system may include a valve separate from
the pump. The valve may comprise one of the group consisting of an
open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve
may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the
valve responsive to actuation of the pump.
[0201] The system may include a barrier configured to open
responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the
pump. The barrier may comprise one of the group consisting of an
open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The
flexible bag may include an inner surface with a coefficient of
friction less than about 0.5 but may be between about 0.2 and
0.5.
[0202] Still another embodiment may include a dispenser including a
container. The container may include a containment portion and a
handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device
to selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a
chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first zone
comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to
a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling
away from the first zone.
[0203] The first tackiness characteristic of the dispenser provides
a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping
along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness
characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping
along the second zone.
[0204] The dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump.
The valve may comprise at least one of the group consisting of an
open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve
may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the
valve responsive to actuation of the pump.
[0205] The first zone may include at least one of a tacky polymer,
an adhesive, tape, and a high friction material having a
coefficient of friction greater than about 0.5.
[0206] The dispenser may include a barrier configured to open
responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the
pump. The barrier may comprise one of the group consisting of an
open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.
[0207] Other embodiments relate to a dispenser including a
container and a flexible bag. The container may include a
containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion
containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump. The
container may include a containment portion having at least a first
zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to
adhere to the flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert
by pulling away from the first zone.
[0208] The dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump.
The valve may include one of the group consisting of an open cell
foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may include
a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive
to actuation of the pump. The barrier may be configured to open
responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the
pump. The barrier may comprise at least one of the group consisting
of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.
[0209] The flexible bag may include an inner surface with a
coefficient of friction less than about 0.5 but embodiments may
have the coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5.
[0210] Another embodiment may relate to a method of dispensing
product. The method may include receiving a flexible bag containing
product into a dispenser, the dispenser including a containment
portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an
actuator device to selectively actuate a pump including a piston,
wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone
comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to
a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling
away from the first zone. The method may further may include
adhering a portion of the flexible bag to the first zone;
translating the piston axially; pushing the piston against the
flexible bag; and everting the flexible bag responsive to the
pushing, wherein the everting comprises detaching a portion of the
adhered flexible bag from the first zone and allowing at least a
portion of the detached flexible bag to be inserted into the
flexible bag.
[0211] The method may further include dispensing product through a
valve.
[0212] Everting may include translating a piston axially such that
the piston presses into the flexible bag such that an outer surface
of the flexible bag detaches from the first zone responsive to the
translation and enters an interior of the bag such that a first
area of an inner surface of the flexible bag is brought
substantially into contact with a second area of the inner surface,
and wherein a greater length the flexible bag translates responsive
to greater translation of the piston.
[0213] Embodiments may include a system including a container and a
flexible bag. The container may include a containment portion and a
handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to
selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion may define a
chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior
side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a
first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic. The
flexible bag may be sized to substantially fit within the
containment portion, wherein the flexible bag may include an inner
and outer wall, the outer wall comprising a third tackiness
characteristic, wherein the inner surface of the bag has a
coefficient less than about 0.5 but embodiments include a
coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and 1, in one embodiment
between about 0.2 and 0.5.
[0214] Yet another embodiment relates to a dispenser including a
container. The container may include a containment portion and a
handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to
selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a
chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior
side, and wherein the first interior side comprises a tackiness
characteristic.
[0215] The tackiness characteristic of the dispenser provides a
degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping
along at least one portion of the first interior side and not
sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along another
portion of the first interior side.
[0216] The flexible bag has an inner surface with a coefficient of
friction less than about 0.5 but embodiments may have a coefficient
of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. The flexible bag may include
at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic
sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible
bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. Additionally, the
flexible bag may include a second zone comprising a second
tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness
characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The
flexible bag has opposing first and second ends, wherein at least
one of the first and second zones is spaced from at least one of
the first and second ends.
[0217] FIGS. 36-37 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance
with one embodiment. The flexible bag is designed as a basic
three-piece unit. The top piece may be made of a film or it may be
thermoformed. The middle piece may be made of film and may be
formed into a round shape of the desired diameter and length and
may include either a fin seal, a lap seal, or preferably may be a
tube with no seal. The middle piece is somewhat supple and/or
flexible so that it can fold inside of itself rather easily. The
bottom as considered here is treated as one piece of the three, but
it may be made as an assembly of several pieces. In this
embodiment, the bottom may be made of film with at least one
fitment attached thereto, or alternatively it may have several
fitments attached thereto, depending on the particular needs. The
bottom may alternatively be made from a thermoformed piece with at
least one fitment attached to it, or alternatively, it may have
several fitments attached to it depending on the particular needs.
The bottom may alternatively be made from a thermoformed piece with
at least one opening therein of a desired size, shape, style or
pattern, such as a slit, hole, stars with three or more sides,
slits with three or more slits, and the like. The three main
flexible bag pieces would be assembled together preferably into a
hermetic flexible bag, by heat sealing the components together for
example. A peelable or otherwise removeable film cover or other
closure may also be part of the bottom to effect a hermetic
flexible bag and adaptable to be removed prior to use. It is also
contemplated that other flexible bag designs besides round,
including for example square with rounded corners, rectangular with
rounded corners, triangular with rounded corners, polygonal with
rounded corners, oval, elliptical, and the like are
contemplated.
[0218] FIGS. 38-39 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance
with another embodiment. The flexible bag may be made of film that
is somewhat supple and/or flexible so that it can fold in on itself
rather easily. The flexible bag may be made so that it may be
formed into a substantially round shape of the desired diameter and
length. The fin seal or lap seal that connects the edges of the
film web may be positioned at the top of the flexible bag and may
preferably make up one of the four corner seals formed in the
corners of the bag. After forming a film sheet into the desired
shape, corner seals are formed at the corners and at the corner at
which the lateral edges meet. Folds are made in the top and bottom
sides of the film sheet inwardly from both corners to bring the
folded portions into contact with the inner surfaces of the
flexible bag. Once folded inwardly, the folded portions are welded,
adhered or otherwise sealed to the sides. As a result, the four
corner seals extend outwardly substantially perpendicular to the
top and bottom sides of the film sheet, defining an edge of the
flexible bag, thereby providing a predetermined shape and
structural strength.
[0219] Corner Seals may be formed on the top and bottom of the
flexible bag as illustrated in FIGS. 38-39. Two Cross Seals may be
tucked and formed in the flexible bag and run from the top to the
bottom of the flexible bag. The bottom of the flexible bag may have
at least one fitment attached to it, or alternatively, it may have
several fitments attached to it depending on particular needs. The
bottom may also have a flat fitment sealed to it with at least one
opening therein of a desired size, shape, style or pattern,
including for examples a slit, a hole, stars with three or more
sides, slits with three or more slits, and the like. The flexible
bag may be assembled preferably into a hermetic flexible bag, by
heat sealing for example. A peelable or otherwise removeable film
cover or other closure may also be part of the bottom, affecting a
hermetic flexible bag if desired and adapted to be removed prior to
use. It is also contemplated that the flexible bag may have shapes
besides round, such as for example, square with rounded corners,
rectangular with rounded corners, triangular with rounded corners,
polygonal with rounded corners, oval, elliptical, and the like.
[0220] FIGS. 40-42 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance
with yet another embodiment. The flexible bag is similar to the
flexible bag depicted in FIG. 38-39 except this embodiment may not
include Corner Seals on the top of the flexible bag. The top of the
flexible bag may include a fin seal or a lap seal (similar to a
cross seal). The Cross Seals may or may not be tucked on the top
depending on the desired top configuration, but they would still be
tucked on the bottom.
[0221] FIG. 43 depicts a perspective view of a flexible bag in
accordance with still another embodiment. The flexible bag of this
embodiment is similar to the flexible bag illustrated in FIGS.
40-42. Embodiments may or may not include Corner Seals.
[0222] FIGS. 44-46 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance
with yet another embodiment. The flexible bag is similar to the
flexible bag of FIG. 43 but filled with product. In at least one
embodiment a fin seal or a lap seal may be located in the center of
the top of the bag or near the top of the bag so that it has little
or no negative effect on how the film folds in on itself during
dispensing. The two Cross Seals extending from the top to the
bottom may or may not be tucked on the top depending on the desired
top configuration.
[0223] FIGS. 47-49 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance
with one other embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the
flexible bag has a spout creating a passage between the flexible
bag and the barrier, valve and/or outlets, thereby preventing the
product from leaking into the chamber (i.e., backflow). FIG. 50
depicts a perspective view of the dispenser similar to that of FIG.
1 having the flexible bag of FIGS. 47-49 positioned therein. In an
alternative embodiment, the flexible bag may include a weakened
area (best viewed in FIG. 47) formed using a perforation, a laser
score and the like, adapted to form a tear strip. FIG. 47
illustrates that the weakened portion passes through the spout. One
skilled in the art would recognize that the spout may be only
partly weakened or scored, such that the score only passes through
a portion of the spout layer using a laser for example, enabling
the spout to be easily opened while preventing leaking prior to
opening. Alternatively, the weakened area may only include the end
of the flexible bag and not the spout (see FIGS. 51, 62 and 73 for
example). This enables the flexible bag to be easily opened while
preventing spilling. It should be appreciated that, while FIG. 47
depicts dimensions and weights, such dimensions and weights are for
illustrative purposes only, and do not otherwise limit the scope of
the invention,
[0224] The flexible bag may be formed from a sheet of film having a
composition and structure appropriate for the product to be stored
therein, and that may be designed to exhibit desired
characteristics after disposal of the package or bag. The sheet of
film for the flexible bag may be formed from materials such as
polypropylene (PP), ethyl vinyl alcohol, polyethylene, EVA
co-polymers, foil (such as aluminum foil), paper, polyester (PE),
nylon (poly amide), and/or composites thereof. In other
embodiments, the sheet of film may be formed from metalized
oriented polypropylene (OPP) or metalized polyethylene
terephthalate (PET), or combinations of such materials. Still
further, the sheet of film may include or be infused with a
degradable or biodegradable component that may allow the container
to degrade in a relatively short amount of time after its useful
life; the film may include an outer ply of heat sealable oriented
polypropylene or other material suitable for heat sealing.
[0225] The fitment may be made from any appropriate material having
the necessary properties to be sealed to the flexible bag. For
example, the fitment may be made from a plastic material, such as
PE, polyethylene terephthalate (PETE), polyactic acid (PLA),
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), PP, and the like, by
means of an appropriate forming process, such as thermoforming,
injection molding, casting or blow molding. As with the sheet of
film, the fitment material may also include a degradable or
biodegradable component to facilitate the breakdown after disposal.
In alternative embodiments, the flexible bag may be constructed
with fitments having varying configurations, or without lid
fitments. Still further, the fitment may be eliminated completely
in favor of the recloseable flap, and the like.
[0226] FIGS. 36-39 and 44-46 depict the flexible bag having tape,
where the tape may include single-sided or double-sided tape or the
like, fixed to one or more portions of wall. As illustrated, the
tape includes double-sided tape fixed to opposing sides of wall and
adapted to contact the first zone and/or second zone. However,
different embodiments are contemplated. For example the tape may
include double-sided tape fixed to only one portion of wall or on
three or more sides of wall. Additional embodiments include tape
comprising a single-sided tape adapted to be secured by the
containment portion. One or more films may be formed having
peelable properties, where the films may be peeled or pulled apart.
Alternatively, the flexible bag may not include any tape but may
include an adhesive, a tacky polymer and the like as provided
herein.
[0227] One embodiment of the invention relates to a film used to
form a flexible bag for example. In at least one embodiment, the
film comprises one or more flexible or supple layers, where the
film is adapted to be folded over on itself, forming a fold with a
small or tight radius without cracking. In one or more embodiments,
the film comprises at least two layers, one layer comprising a
sealant, while one or more other layers may comprise a different
material, a polyester for example.
[0228] In at least one embodiment, the film includes one or more
edges and opposing first and second surfaces, where the two
surfaces have different coefficients of friction (static
coefficients of friction for example). For example, the first
surface may have a static coefficient of friction of 0.5 or less
(between 0.2 and 0.5, for example), while the second surface may
have a static coefficient of friction of 0.5 or more (0.6 and 1.0
for example).
[0229] In at least one embodiment, the film may include at least a
first zone of at least one of the first and second surfaces
resisting the film slipping along the first zone and a second zone
of the at least one of the first and second surfaces which does not
resist the film slipping along the second zone. At least one of the
first and second zones may include a tackiness characteristic,
including a tacky polymer, a tape (double-sided tape for example)
and the like.
[0230] The film may have a composition and structure appropriate
for the product to be stored therein, and that may be designed to
exhibit desired characteristics after disposal of the package or
bag. The film may be formed from materials such as polypropylene
(PP), ethyl vinyl alcohol, polyethylene, EVA co-polymers, foil
(such as aluminum foil), paper, polyester (PE), nylon (poly amide),
and/or composites thereof. In other embodiments, the sheet of film
may be formed from metalized oriented polypropylene (OPP) or
metalized polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or combinations of such
materials. Still further, the sheet of film may include or be
infused with a degradable or biodegradable component that may allow
the container to degrade in a relatively short amount of time after
its useful life; the film may include an outer ply of heat sealable
oriented polypropylene or other material suitable for heat
sealing.
[0231] FIGS. 51-61 depict views of a flexible bag 400 formed from a
film 410 similar to that provided previously, in accordance with
one other embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible
bag 400 illustrated in FIG. 51-61 has a spout 412 creating a
passage between the flexible bag 400 and the barrier, valve and/or
outlets, thereby preventing the product from leaking into the
chamber (i.e., backflow). In at least one embodiment, the flexible
bag 400 may include a weakened area 414 (best viewed in FIGS.
58-61) formed using perforations, laser perforations, laser scoring
and the like, on one or both sides of the flexible bag 400 and
adapted to form a tear strip 416. In one or more embodiments, the
weakened area 414 may be formed having a tearing direction, such
that the flexible bag 400 may be torn open only along the tearing
direction. Further, the flexible bag 400 may include a location
device. As illustrated in FIGS. 58-61, the location device may
comprise one or more holes 418 and alignment markings (not shown)
on one end for positioning the flexible bag 400 in a dispenser
(about lugs or pins therein for example) and/or one or more
alignment markings on an opposing end. It should be appreciated
that, while FIG. 51 depicts dimensions and weights, such dimensions
and weights are for illustrative purposes only, and do not
otherwise limit the scope of the invention.
[0232] As illustrated, flexible bag 400 may include a first end
420, a second end 422, and wall 424 extending there between, where
at least wall 424 (having first and second surfaces for example)
contacts or engages first interior side and/or first zone and
second zone. First end 420, second end 422 and wall 424 define a
pouch adapted to be filled and sealed.
[0233] FIGS. 62-73 depict views of a flexible bag 400 formed from a
film similar to that provided previously, in accordance with one
other embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible bag
400 illustrated in FIG. 62-73 has a spout 412 creating a passage
between the flexible bag 400 and the barrier, valve and/or outlets,
thereby preventing the product from leaking into the chamber (i.e.,
backflow). In at least one embodiment, the flexible bag 400 may be
include a weakened area 414 (best viewed in FIGS. 69-72) formed
using perforations, laser perforations, laser scoring and the like
on one or both sides, adapted to form a tear strip 416. In one or
more embodiments, the weakened area 414 may be formed having a
tearing direction, such that the flexible bag 400 may be torn open
only along the tearing direction. Further, the flexible bag 400 may
include one or more location devices. As illustrated in FIGS.
69-72, the location device may comprise one or more holes 418 and
alignment markings on one end for positioning the flexible bag 400
in a dispenser (about lugs or pins therein for example) and/or one
or more alignment markings on an opposing end. It should be
appreciated that, while FIG. 62 depicts dimensions and weights,
such dimensions and weights are for illustrative purposes only, and
do not otherwise limit the scope of the invention,
[0234] FIGS. 73-83 depict views of a flexible bag 400 formed from a
film similar to that provided previously, in accordance with one
other embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible bag
illustrated in FIG. 73-83 has a spout 412 creating a passage
between the flexible bag 400 and the barrier, valve and/or outlets,
thereby preventing the product from leaking into the chamber (i.e.,
backflow). In at least one embodiment, the flexible bag 400 may be
include a weakened area 414 (best viewed in FIGS. 80-83) formed
using perforations, laser perforations, laser scoring and the like
on one or both sides of the flexible bag, adapted to form a tear
strip 416. In one or more embodiments, the weakened area 414 may be
formed having a tearing direction, such that the flexible bag 400
to be torn open only along the tearing direction. Further, the
flexible bag 400 may include a location device. As illustrated in
FIGS. 80-83, the location device may comprise one or more holes 418
and alignment markings on one end for positioning the flexible bag
in a dispenser (about lugs or pins therein for example) and/or one
or more alignment markings on an opposing end. It should be
appreciated that, while FIG. 73 depicts dimensions and weights,
such dimensions and weights are for illustrative purposes only, and
do not otherwise limit the scope of the invention.
[0235] FIGS. 84-149 illustrate a dispenser 500 having a clam shell
arrangement for example including a containment portion 510, a
handle portion 512 and a lock 532. The handle portion 512 may
include a trigger or actuating device 516 (having one or more
springs or other biasing devices) to selectively actuate a pump or
piston a predetermined distance and dispense a predetermined amount
of product. FIGS. 84-116 depict the dispenser 500 in a closed
position, having an end cap 518 screwed to or rotatably received by
the dispenser 500 using reciprocal threads for example. In one
embodiment, the end cap 518 includes a plurality of outlets 520 (1,
3, 5, or more) arranged about at least one end. In the illustrated
embodiment, each outlet 520 has at least one valve fitment 522
positioned or secured therein, allowing product to flow there
though only when pressure is applied but not when the pressure is
relieved, preventing weeping or leakage. Alternatively, the at
least one outlet 520 has a predetermined shape (a plus or T for
example) which allows product to flow there though only when
pressure is applied but not when the pressure is relieved
[0236] FIGS. 117-149 illustrate the dispenser of FIGS. 84-116
having a first wall 524 and a second wall 526 connected via hinge
528 forming door 530 in an open configuration. Containment portion
510 defines a chamber 540 including at least a first interior side
542 that comprises at least one or more zones having one or more
tackiness characteristics. The at least one or more zones having
one or more tackiness characteristics may have a limited useful
life, allowing for a limited number of uses, or an extended useful
life (i.e., as long as the dispenser, allowing an almost unlimited
number of uses.
[0237] FIGS. 117-149 depict at least a segmented piston 544
positioned in the chamber 540, which enables emptying the flexible
bag positioned therein. Furthermore, the segmented piston 544 is
connected to the actuating device having one or more springs or
other biasing means, which, upon completion of the application or
dispensing a predetermined amount of product, relieves any residual
pressure on the flexible bag, preventing or reducing weeping by
movement of the segmented piston from a first forward position
towards a second rearward position.
[0238] In at least one embodiment the open dispenser 500 is
configured to receive a flexible container (such as flexible bag
400 for example) such that the valve is positioned extending
between two opposing ends of the dispenser 500 using one or more
positioning devices. The door is closed, such that only the
weakened portion and tear strip of the flexible bag extends
thereform. In at least one embodiment, the flexible bag includes a
weakened area formed using a perforation a laser score on one or
more side, forming a tear strip having a tearing direction. The
flexible bag is opened along the tear strip in the tearing
direction. The end cap is then secured to the dispenser, enabling
dispensing of the product and preventing the product from leaking
into the chamber (i.e., backflow).
One embodiment, relates to a dispenser including a container having
a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion
containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a pump. The
containment portion defines a chamber, wherein the chamber may
include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first
interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first
tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second
tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness
characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The
dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump, wherein the
valve comprises one of the group consisting of a flexible seal, a
foam, an open cell foam and a closed cell foam. The valve may
comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve
responsive to actuation of the pump. The dispenser may include a
barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure
resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises
one of the group consisting of open cell foam, closed cell foam and
a flexible seal. At least one of the first zone and second zone may
include an adhesive, a tacky polymer, tape and/or double sided
tape. The dispenser may include at least one of a flexible bag, a
flexible package and a flexible container along at least the first
zone, where the at least of the flexible bag, the flexible package
and the flexible container have an inner surface with a coefficient
of friction less than about 0.5, a coefficient of friction between
about 0.2 and 0.5 or a coefficient of friction between about 0.1
and 1.0. Additionally the at least one flexible bag, the flexible
package and the flexible container have an inner and outer surface,
the outer surface having a higher coefficient of friction than the
inner surface or the outer surface in combination with the first
interior side having a lower coefficient of friction than the inner
surface. The dispenser may include the pump having at least one of
a group consisting of a piston, a mechanical drive member, a
pneumatic drive member and an electrical drive member. The
actuating device incrementally actuates the pump advancing the
actuating device a predetermined amount and/or incrementally
reversing a predetermined amount. The first tackiness
characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist
a flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the
second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the
flexible bag slipping along the second zone.
[0239] Still another embodiment relates to a dispensing system
including a container including a containment portion and a handle
portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to
selectively actuate a pump that includes at least one of a group
consisting of a piston, mechanical drive device, pneumatic drive
device and electrical drive device; the containment portion
defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a
first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises
at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic and
a second zone includes a second tackiness characteristic, such that
the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness
characteristic; and a flexible bag sized to substantially fit
within the containment portion, wherein first zone partially holds
to the flexible bag and wherein the piston translates axially
through the chamber and everts the flexible bag. The first
tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient
to resist the flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone,
and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient
to resist the flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone.
The system further includes a valve separate from the pump, where
the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open
cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may
include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve
responsive to actuation of the pump. The system includes at least
one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure
resulting from actuation of the pump, where the barrier comprises
at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed
cell foam and a flexible seal. The flexible bag may include an
inner surface with a coefficient less than about 0.5, an inner
surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5 or
an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2
and 0.5. DD [0240] One other embodiment relates to a dispenser
including a container including a containment portion and a handle
portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to
selectively actuate a pump, the containment portion defining a
chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first zone
includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a
flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling
away from the first zone. The first tackiness characteristic
provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag
slipping along at least the first zone, and wherein the second
tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag
slipping along at least the second zone. The dispenser includes a
valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least
one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell
foam and a flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical
device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation
of the pump. The first zone comprises at least one of a tacky
polymer, an adhesive, tape, a high friction material having a
coefficient of friction greater than about 0.5. The dispenser
includes at least one barrier configured to open responsive to
increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein
the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an
open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.
[0241] One other embodiment relates to a dispenser including a
container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the
handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively
actuate a pump, the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein
the chamber may include at least a first zone includes a first
tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag
while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the
first zone. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of
tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at
least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness
characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping
along at least the second zone. The dispenser includes a valve
separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least one of
the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a
flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for
selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the
pump. The first zone comprises at least one of a tacky polymer, an
adhesive, tape, a high friction material having a coefficient of
friction greater than about 0.5. The dispenser includes at least
one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure
resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises
at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed
cell foam and a flexible seal.
[0242] A dispenser includes a container including a containment
portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an
actuation device to selectively actuate a pump; a flexible bag; and
wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone
includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to
the flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by
pulling away from the first zone. The dispenser further includes a
valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least
one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell
foam and a flexible seal. The valve may include a mechanical device
for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the
pump. The dispenser further includes at least one barrier
configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from
actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises at least one
of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam
and a flexible seal. The may include an inner surface with a
coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, an inner surface with
a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5, or an inner
surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. A
method of dispensing product includes receiving a flexible bag
containing product into a dispenser, the dispenser including a
containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion
containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump
including a piston, wherein the containment portion may include at
least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic
sufficient to hold to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible
bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone; bringing a
portion of the flexible bag into contact with the first zone;
translating the piston axially; pushing the piston against the
flexible bag; and everting the flexible bag responsive to the
pushing, wherein the everting comprises separating a portion of the
held flexible bag from the first zone and allowing at least a
portion of the detached flexible bag to be inserted into itself.
The method includes dispensing product through a valve, wherein the
everting comprises translating a piston axially such that the
piston presses into the flexible bag such that an outer surface of
the flexible bag detaches from the first zone responsive to the
translation and enters an interior of the bag such that a first
area of an inner surface of the flexible bag is brought into
proximity with a second area of the inner surface, and wherein at
least a portion of the flexible bag translates responsive to
translation of the piston. A dispensing system includes a container
including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle
portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a
pump; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the
chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the
first interior side comprises at least a first zone includes a
first tackiness characteristic; a flexible bag sized to
substantially fit within the containment portion, and wherein the
flexible bag may include an inner and outer wall, the outer wall
includes a third tackiness characteristic, wherein the inner
surface has a coefficient of friction less than about 0.2 and
0.5.
[0243] A dispenser includes a container including a containment
portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an
actuator device to selectively actuate a pump; the containment
portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at
least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side
comprises a tackiness characteristic. The tackiness characteristic
provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag
slipping along at least one portion of the first interior side and
not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along another
portion of the first interior side. The flexible bag has an inner
surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, an
inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and
0.5, or a coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and 1.0. The
flexible bag may include at least a first zone including a first
tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag
while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the
first zone. The flexible bag may include a second zone includes a
second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness
characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The
flexible bag has opposing first and second ends, wherein the
tackiness characteristic is spaced from at least one of the first
and second ends.
A dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a
product, the dispenser includes a housing having a first wall and a
second wall hingedly connected to the first wall and defining a
chamber having a first end and a second end enabling the flexible
bag to firmly adhere to a portion of at least one of the first wall
and second wall and loosely adhere to a portion of at least one
first wall and the second wall; a handle located proximate the
chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biased
actuating device; a piston positioned in the chamber and actionably
coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap adapted to
be removably, rotatably received by the housing proximate the
second end, the end cap defining at least one opening adapted to
allow flow in only one direction. The piston is a segmented piston.
The dispenser includes at least one outlet having a valve fitment
that allows product to flow there through in only one direction
and/or having a predetermined shape allowing product to flow there
though in only one direction. The dispenser may include a tacky
portion mounted to at least one of the first wall and the second
wall. The dispenser may further include the end cap rotatably
connected to the housing and/or a lock securing the first wall and
the second wall.
[0244] Another embodiment includes a dispenser adapted to receive a
flexible bag and dispense a product contained in the flexible bag,
the dispenser including a housing having a first wall and a second
wall movably connected to the first wall and defining a chamber
having a first end and a second end; a tacky portion contacting the
housing enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a first
portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhere to a second portion
of the tacky portion; a handle located proximate the chamber first
end and having a reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented
piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least
the actuating device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a
reversible manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and
dispense the product; and an end cap adapted to be removably
received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap
defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one
direction, wherein the handle and segmented piston act in concert,
such that upon applying pressure to the flexible bag, everting the
flexible bag and dispensing a predetermined amount of the product,
and upon completion of dispensing a predetermined amount of the
product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag,
preventing the product from weeping. The at least one outlet has a
valve fitment that allows product to flow there through in only one
direction and/or includes the outlet having a predetermined shape
allowing product to flow there though in only one direction. The
tacky portion is mounted to at least one of the first wall and the
second wall. An end cap is rotatably connected to the housing. The
second wall is moveably connected to the first wall via at least
one hinge. The dispenser includes a lock securing the first wall
and the second wall. The handle further includes a trigger.
[0245] A dispenser adapted to dispense a product, the dispenser
includes a housing having a first wall and a second d wall movably
connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first
end and a second end; a flexible bag received in the chamber and
adapted to dispense a product upon application of pressure thereto;
a tacky portion mounted to the housing enabling the flexible bag to
firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky portion and loosely
adhere to a second portion of the tacky portion; a handle located
proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a
reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented piston positioned
in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating
device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a reversible
manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and dispense the
product; and an end cap adapted to be removably received by the
housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one
outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction, wherein the
handle and segmented piston act in concert, such that upon applying
pressure to the flexible bag that flexible bag everts dispensing a
predetermined amount of the product, and upon completion of
dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, relieves any
residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing the product
weeping. The dispenser includes at least one outlet having a valve
fitment that allows product to flow there through in only one
direction. The dispenser further includes the outlet having a
predetermined shape allowing product to flow there thought in only
one direction. The dispenser includes the end cap rotatably
connected to the housing. The second wall is moveably connected to
the first wall via at least one hinge.
[0246] One other embodiment relates to a method for dispensing a
product using a dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag
includes a housing having a first wall and a second wall hingedly
connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first
end and a second end; a handle located proximate the chamber first
end and having a trigger and a reversely biased actuating device; a
tacky portion mounted to the housing having a first portion and a
second portion; a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and
actionably coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap
adapted to be removably, rotatably received by the housing
proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet
adapted to allow flow in only one direction; the flexible bag
formed from a film includes: a first edge; a first surface, the
first surface having a first static coefficient; a second surface
opposite the first surface, the second surface having a static
coefficient of friction greater than the first static coefficient;
the second surface firmly adhering to the first portion of the
tacky portion and loosely adhering to the second portion of the
tacky portion; and wherein the at least one layer is joined along
at least the first edge and defining a tearing direction that
allows the flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing
direction; the method includes removing the end cap; moving the
first wall away from the secong wall, opening the dispenser and
exposing at least the chamber; positioning the flexible bag in the
chamber such that at least the tear strip extends from the
dispenser; moving the first wall towards the second wall, closing
the dispenser; opening the tear strip in the tearing direction;
placing the end cap on the dispenser; and actuating the actuating
device.
[0247] Still another embodiment relates to a film used to form a
flexible bag including at least one layer adapted to be folded over
on itself without cracking, the at least one layer includes at
least one edge; a first surface; a second surface opposite the
first surface, at least one of the first or second surface having a
coefficient of friction less than 0.5; and wherein the at least one
layer is adapted to be joined along the at least one edge, forming
the flexible bag and scored, forming a weakened portion. At least
one of the first and second surfaces has a coefficient of friction
between about 0.2 and 0.5. 93.
[0248] The first surface has a static coefficient of friction less
than 0.5 and the second surface has a static coefficient of
friction greater than 0.5.
[0249] The flexible bag formed from a film comprising includes at
least one layer adapted to be folded upon itself without cracking,
the at least one layer includes a first edge and a second edge; a
first surface, the first surface having a static coefficient of
friction less than 0.5; a second surface opposite the first
surface, the second surface having a static coefficient of friction
greater than 0.5; and wherein the at least one layer is joined
along at least the first edge, forming the flexible bag and the
second end is scored defining a tearing direction that allows the
flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing direction. The
first surface has a static coefficient of friction between about
0.2 and 0.5. The flexible bag includes at least a first zone of at
least the first surface resists the film slipping along the first
zone and a second zone of the second surface does not resist the
film slipping along the second zone. The flexible bag further
includes at least one location device, comprises at least one hole
and/or at least one location device comprises at least one marking
on the bag.
[0250] While the embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are
presently considered to be preferred, various changes and
modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is indicated in
the appended claims, and all changes that come within the meaning
and range of equivalents are intended to be embraced therein.
* * * * *