U.S. patent application number 14/155136 was filed with the patent office on 2014-07-17 for vacuum sealer with a retractable heater bar.
This patent application is currently assigned to Sunbeam products, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Sunbeam products, Inc.. Invention is credited to Elif Caputa, David Owens.
Application Number | 20140196405 14/155136 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51164088 |
Filed Date | 2014-07-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140196405 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Owens; David ; et
al. |
July 17, 2014 |
Vacuum Sealer with a Retractable Heater Bar
Abstract
Systems (200) and methods (1300) for selectively retracting a
first component of a Vacuum Packaging Appliance ("VPA"). The method
comprises: causing the first component to normally be in an engaged
position in which the component facilitates a formation of a heat
seal along an open end of a container disposed within the VPA;
detecting an existence of at least one first condition associated
with the VPA; and applying a magnetic field in proximity to the
component when the first condition is detected, whereby the first
component is at least maintained in an unengaged position in which
the first component no longer facilitates the formation of the heat
seal.
Inventors: |
Owens; David; (Boynton
Beach, FL) ; Caputa; Elif; (Boca Raton, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sunbeam products, Inc. |
Boca Raton |
FL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Sunbeam products, Inc.
Boca Raton
FL
|
Family ID: |
51164088 |
Appl. No.: |
14/155136 |
Filed: |
January 14, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61752050 |
Jan 14, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
53/396 ;
53/557 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B29C 66/91212 20130101;
B65B 57/00 20130101; B29C 66/232 20130101; B29C 66/43121 20130101;
B29C 66/849 20130101; B29C 66/8324 20130101; B29C 66/1122 20130101;
B29C 66/961 20130101; B65B 51/146 20130101; B29C 66/87443 20130101;
B29C 65/224 20130101; B65B 31/048 20130101; B29L 2031/7128
20130101; B29C 65/223 20130101; B29C 66/872 20130101; B29C 66/00145
20130101; B29C 66/8161 20130101; B29C 66/91231 20130101; B29C
66/861 20130101; B29C 66/8618 20130101; B29C 66/919 20130101; B29C
66/91655 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
53/396 ;
53/557 |
International
Class: |
B65B 53/06 20060101
B65B053/06 |
Claims
1. A method for selectively retracting a first component of a
Vacuum Packaging Appliance ("VPA"), comprising: causing the first
component to normally be in an engaged position in which the first
component facilitates a formation of a heat seal along an open end
of a container disposed within the VPA; detecting an existence of
at least one first condition associated with the VPA; and applying
a magnetic field in proximity to the first component when the first
condition is detected, whereby the first component is at least
maintained in an unengaged position in which the first component no
longer facilitates the formation of the heat seal.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic field is
generated through a supply of current to at least one
electro-magnet disposed within a base or a pivoting lid of the
VPA.
3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first component is
formed of a ferrous material or has a ferrous material coupled
thereto such that the magnetic field causes the first component to
be transitioned from the engaged position to the unengaged
position.
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first component
comprises a support structure for a heat sealing strip configured
to apply heat to the open end of the container during heat sealing
operations of the VPA or a bumper configured to apply pressure to
the open end of the container during heat sealing operations of the
VPA.
5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising biasing the
first component into the engaged position using at least one
resilient member disposed within a base of the VPA.
6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the resilient member is
a spring normally in an uncompressed state and the magnetic field
causes the resilient member to transition from the uncompressed
state to a compressed state.
7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first condition
comprises at least one of the following: a locking a lid in a
closed position; expiration of a pre-defined period of time; a
start of a particular iteration of vacuum and sealing operations
performed by the VPA; an excessive temperature of a heat sealing
element; an excess of fluid in the container or a vacuum chamber of
the VPA; and an excess of liquid in a drip tray of the VPA.
8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising terminating
the application of the magnetic field in proximity to the first
component when the first condition no longer exists or a second
condition is detected.
9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the second condition
comprises at least one of the following: expiration of a
pre-defined period of time; a completion of a particular iteration
of vacuum operations performed by the VPA; a start of a particular
iteration of heat sealing operations performed by the VPA; a
reduction of a temperature of a heat sealing element to at least a
first threshold level; a reduction in a fluid pressure level within
the container or a vacuum chamber of the VPA to at least a second
threshold level; and a reduction of a liquid level in a drip tray
of the VPA to at least a third threshold level.
10. The method according to claim 1, further comprising moving the
first component into range of the magnetic field using a mechanical
retraction structure.
11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising manually
actuating the mechanical retraction structure by depressing a lever
of a latch mechanism configured to lock a lid of the VPA in a
closed position.
12. A Vacuum Packaging Appliance ("VPA"), comprising: a first
component configured to normally be in an engaged position in which
the first component facilitates a formation of a heat seal along an
open end of a container disposed within the VPA; at least one
sensor configured to detect an existence of at least one first
condition associated with the VPA; and at least one magnet
configured to apply a magnetic field in proximity to the first
component when the first condition is detected, whereby the first
component is at least maintained in an unengaged position in which
the first component no longer facilitates the formation of the heat
seal.
13. The system according to claim 12, wherein the magnetic field is
generated through a supply of current to at least one
electro-magnet disposed within a base or a pivoting lid of the
VPA.
14. The system according to claim 12, wherein the first component
is formed of a ferrous material or has a ferrous material coupled
thereto such that the magnetic field causes the first component to
be transitioned from the engaged position to the unengaged
position.
15. The system according to claim 12, wherein the first component
comprises a support structure for a heat sealing strip configured
to apply heat to the open end of the container during heat sealing
operations of the VPA or a bumper configured to apply pressure to
the open end of the container during heat sealing operations of the
VPA.
16. The system according to claim 12, further comprising a
resilient member disposed within a base of the VPA and configured
to bias the first component into the engaged position.
17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the resilient member
is a spring normally in an uncompressed state and the magnetic
field causes the resilient member to transition from the
uncompressed state to a compressed state.
18. The system according to claim 12, wherein the first condition
comprises at least one of the following: expiration of a
pre-defined period of time; a start of a particular iteration of
vacuum and sealing operations performed by the VPA; an excessive
temperature of a heat sealing element; an excess of fluid in the
container or a vacuum chamber of the VPA; and an excess of liquid
in a drip tray of the VPA.
19. The system according to claim 12, wherein application of the
magnetic field in proximity to the first component is terminated
when the first condition no longer exists or a second condition is
detected.
20. The system according to claim 19, wherein the second condition
comprises at least one of the following: expiration of a
pre-defined period of time; a completion of a particular iteration
of vacuum operations performed by the VPA; a start of a particular
iteration of heat sealing operations performed by the VPA; a
reduction of a temperature of a heat sealing element to at least a
first threshold level; a reduction in a fluid pressure level within
the container or a vacuum chamber of the VPA to at least a second
threshold level; and a reduction of a liquid level in a drip tray
of the VPA to at least a third threshold level.
21. The system according to claim 12, further comprising a
mechanical retraction structure configured to move the first
component into range of the magnetic field.
22. The system according to claim 21, further comprising a lever
configured to (a) actuate the mechanical retraction structure and
(b) lock a lid of the VPA in a closed position when depressed.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/752,050 filed on Jan. 14, 2013.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Statement of the Technical Field
[0003] The inventive arrangements relate to vacuum packaging and
sealing appliances. More particularly, the invention concerns
vacuum packaging and sealing appliances employing electromagnets
for transitioning heat sealing bars between engaged positions in
which heat seals are formed and unengaged positions in which no
heat seals are formed,
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Various appliances are used for vacuum packaging purposes to
protect perishables and other products against oxidation. Such
appliances typically use a heat scaling element to form a seal at
an open end of a container. The heat sealing element can include
two adjacent heat sealing bars between which the open end of the
container is placed. Prior to formation of the heat seal, the
container may be evacuated of excess moisture and air through the
use of at least one vacuum pump. The evacuation of moisture and air
from the container minimizes the spoiling effects of oxygen on
perishables and other products.
[0006] Despite the advantages of these appliances, they suffer from
certain drawbacks. For example, such appliances may be used in
repetitive vacuum and heat sealing operations, such as in hunting
applications in which a relatively large amount of game needs to be
stored in containers within a short a period of time. During such
repetitive vacuum and heat sealing operations, these conventional
appliances do not meet the performance requirements since pre-seals
are formed on the containers before a sufficient amount of fluid is
evacuated therefrom. The pre-seals are created by the heat sealing
strip(s) which do not have a sufficient amount of time to cool down
prior to a next iteration of the vacuum and sealing operations.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention concerns apparatus and methods for
selectively retracting a first component of a Vacuum Packaging
Appliance ("VPA"). The methods comprise causing the first component
to normally be in an engaged position in which the first component
facilitates a formation of a heat seal along an open end of a
container disposed within the VPA. The first component can include,
but is not limited to, a support structure for a heat sealing strip
configured to apply heat to the open end of the container during
heat sealing operations of the VPA or a bumper configured to apply
pressure to the open end of the container during heat sealing
operations of the VPA. In some scenarios, the first component is
biased into the engaged position using at least one resilient
member (e.g., a spring) disposed within a base of the VPA.
[0008] Thereafter, an existence of at least one first condition
associated with the VPA is detected. In some scenarios, the first
condition comprises, but is not limited to, at least one of the
following: a locking of a lid in a closed position; an expiration
of a predefined period of time; a start of a particular iteration
of vacuum and sealing operations performed by the VPA; an excessive
temperature of a heat sealing element; an excess of fluid in the
container or a vacuum Chamber of the VPA; and an excess of liquid
in a drip tray of the VPA.
[0009] When the first condition is detected, a magnetic field is
applied in proximity to the component. The magnetic field can be
generated through a supply of current to at least one
electro-magnet disposed within a base or a pivoting lid of the VPA.
As a result the application of the magnetic field, the first
component is at least maintained in an unengaged position in which
the first component no longer facilitates the formation of the heat
seal.
[0010] In some scenarios, the first component is formed of a
ferrous material or has a ferrous material coupled thereto such
that the magnetic field causes the first component to be
transitioned from the engaged position to the unengaged position.
Additionally or alternatively, the resilient member is normally in
an uncompressed state and the magnetic field causes the resilient
member to transition from the uncompressed state to a compressed
state. In other scenarios, the first component is moved into range
of the magnetic field using a mechanical retraction structure,
mechanical retraction structure can be manually actuated by
depressing a lever of a latch mechanism configured to look a lid of
the VPA in a closed position.
[0011] The application of the magnetic field can be terminated when
the first condition no longer exists or a second condition is
detected. The second condition can include, but is not limited to,
at least one of the following: an unlocking of the lid from its
closed position; expiration of a pre-defined period of time; a
completion of a particular iteration of vacuum operations performed
by the VPA; a start of a particular iteration of heat sealing
operations performed by the VPA; a reduction of a temperature of a
heat sealing element to at least a first threshold level; a
reduction in a fluid pressure level within the container or a
vacuum chamber of the VPA to at least a second threshold level; and
a reduction of a liquid level in a drip tray of the VPA to at least
a third threshold level.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] Embodiments will be described with reference to the
following drawing figures, in which like numerals represent like
items throughout the figures, and in which:
[0013] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary container
that is useful for understanding the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary VPA that is
useful for understanding the present invention,
[0015] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the exemplary VPA of FIG. 2
with a lid in an open position.
[0016] FIG. 4 is a top view of the VPA of FIGS. 2-3 with the lid
removed and a portion of a base cutaway.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a cross-section of the VPA of FIGS. 2-4.
[0018] FIG. 6 is a rear view of the VPA of FIGS. 2-5,
[0019] FIGS. 7-8 collectively provide schematic illustrations of a
first exemplary architecture for a retractable component of a
sealing mechanism of a VPA.
[0020] FIGS. 9-10 collectively provide schematic illustrations of a
second exemplary architecture for a retractable component of a
sealing mechanism of a VPA.
[0021] FIGS. 11-12 collectively provide schematic illustrations of
a third exemplary architecture for a retractable component of a
sealing mechanism of a VPA.
[0022] FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method for
selectively retracting a first component of a VPA.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0023] It will be readily understood that the components of the
embodiments as generally described herein and illustrated in the
appended figures could be arranged and designed in a wide variety
of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed
description of various embodiments, as represented in the figures,
is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but
is merely representative of various embodiments. While the various
aspects of the embodiments are presented in drawings, the drawings
are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically
indicated.
[0024] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects as illustrative. The scope of the invention is,
therefore, indicated by the appended claims. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
[0025] Reference throughout this specification to features,
advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the
features and advantages that may be realized with the present
invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the
invention. Rather, language referring to the features and
advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature,
advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present
invention. Thus, discussions of the features and advantages, and
similar language, throughout the specification may, but do not
necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.
[0026] Furthermore, the described features, advantages and
characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable
manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art
will recognize, in light of the description herein, that the
invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific
features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other
instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in
certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of
the invention.
[0027] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment",
"an embodiment", or similar language means that a particular
feature, structure, or Characteristic described in connection with
the indicated embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of
the present invention. Thus, the phrases "in one embodiment", "in
an embodiment", and similar language throughout this specification
may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0028] As used in this document, the singular form "a", "an", and
"the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific
terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by
one of ordinary skill in the art. As used in this document, the
term "comprising" means "including, but not limited to".
[0029] The present invention generally concerns systems and methods
for selectively retracting a first component of a Vacuum Packaging
Appliance ("VPA"), such as a heat sealing strip or a bumper. The
methods generally involve: causing the first component to normally
be in an engaged position in which the component facilitates a
formation of a heat seal along an open end of a container disposed
within the VPA; detecting an existence of at least one first
condition associated with the VPA; and applying a magnetic field in
proximity to the component when the first condition is detected. As
a result of the magnetic field, the first component is at least
maintained in an unengaged position in which the first component no
longer facilitates the formation of the heat seal.
[0030] Notably, the present invention overcomes various drawbacks
of conventional VPAs. For example, VPAs may be used in repetitive
vacuum and heat sealing operations, such as in hunting applications
in which a relatively large amount of game needs to be stored in
containers within a short a period of time. During such repetitive
vacuum and heat sealing operations, conventional VPAs do not meet
the performance requirements since pre-seals are formed on the
containers before a sufficient amount of fluid is evacuated
therefrom. The pre-seals are created by the heat sealing strip(s)
which do not have a sufficient amount of time to cool down prior to
a next iteration of the VPA vacuum and sealing operations. As such,
the pre-seals occur before a vacuum pump has a sufficient amount of
time to remove all of the air in the container.
[0031] Notably, the retractable first component(s) of the present
invention eliminate the formation of such pre-seals. As such, the
VPAs of the present invention have an improved overall performance
as compared to that of conventional VPAs. Generally, the first
component(s) of the present invention are retracted from an engaged
position in which a heat seal can be Rimed along an open end of a
container to an unengaged position in which said heat seal cannot
be formed. This retraction prevents a heat sealing strip(s) from
pre-sealing the container when it is still too hot from the
previous heat sealing operation. The manner in which the first
component(s) is(are) retracted will become evident as the
discussion progresses. Notably, the first component(s) need(s) only
be retracted by a relatively small distance (e.g., <0.5 inches)
in order to prevent pre-sealing of a container.
[0032] Embodiments will now be described with respect to FIGS.
1-13. Embodiments generally relate to VPAs configured to seal
perishables or other products within a container. An example
container 100 comprising at least one seal formed along an edge
thereof is provided in FIG. 1. The container can include, but is
not limited to, a plastic bag 102 with one or more seals 104, 106,
108, 110 formed on edges thereof. At least one of the seals 110 is
formed by a VPA. If less than all of the seals are formed by the
VPA, then the remaining seals may have been pre-formed at a
factory. In all cases, perishables 112 or other products may be
disposed in the container 100 for protection against oxidation.
[0033] An exemplary architecture 200 for a. VPA is provided in
FIGS. 2-6. VPA 200 is generally configured to evacuate and seal a
container (e.g., container 100 of FIG. 1). VPA 200 may also be
configured to dispense a material that can be used to form the
container. In this case, VPA 200 comprises a base 210 with a
storage compartment 302 formed therein. The storage compartment 302
is provided for at least partially housing a roll 304 of flexible
container material. In some scenarios, the flexible container
material comprises a multi-layer plastic material with at least two
edges having pre-formed seals therealong (e.g., seals 106 and 108
of FIG. 1). The roll 304 may be stored in the storage compartment
302 with or without any support mechanisms. In both cases, the roll
304 is free to at least rotate within compartment 302.
[0034] A pivoting lid 202 is hingedly coupled to the base 210 of
the VPA 200. In this regard, the pivoting lid 202 can be
transitioned between a closed position shown in FIG. 2 and an open
position shown in FIG. 3. A user may manually cause such a
transition using a lip 212 formed on an exterior front edge of the
lid 202. The lip 212 allows the user to easily grasp and pivot the
lid 202 about its pivot point for transitioning the lid to and from
its closed position or its open position. The pivot point is
defined by the hinge(s) not shown) pivotally coupling a rear bottom
edge 314 of the lid 202 to the base 210.
[0035] The lid 202 may be locked into the closed position via a
latch mechanism 316, 318, 320. The latch mechanism comprises a
depressible lever 316 and two hooks 318, 320 configured to engage
latch cams (not shown) disposed in the base 210. In this regard,
the latch cams are accessible to the hooks 318, 320 via apertures
322, 342 formed in the base 210. Notably, the hooks 318, 320 are
sized and shaped to pass through respective apertures 322, 342 when
the lid 202 is pivoted in the direction of arrow 324 into the
closed position. The lever 316 allows a user to cause the hooks
318, 320 to lockingly engage the latch cams so that the lid 202 is
locked into its closed position. The hooks can be disengaged, from
the latch cams automatically by the VPA 200 or manually by the user
via the lever 316. In the manual scenario, the lever locks the
latch mechanism when moved in a downward direction and unlocks the
latch mechanism when moved in an upward direction.
[0036] When the pivoting lid 202 is in its closed position, it
encloses the roll 304 within the storage compartment 302, as shown
in FIG. 2. The pivoting lid 202 also allows a section of container
material to be dispensed from the storage compartment 302 when it
is in its open position, as shown in FIG. 3. Once at least a
portion of the container material is dispensed from the storage
compartment 302, the pivoting lid 202 can be returned to its locked
closed position.
[0037] Thereafter, the section of container material is cut from
the roll 304. The cutting is achieved using a cutting device 204
integrated within the VPA 200. Such cutting device arrangements are
well known in the art, and therefore will not be described in
detail herein. Still, it should be understood that the cutting
device 204 is moveably disposed within a track 206 formed in the
pivoting lid 202 of the VPA 200. Any container material disposed
below the cutting device 204 can be cut simply by sliding the
cutting device 204 back and forth (or right and left) as shown by
arrow 208 within the track 206.
[0038] Notably, the cutting device 204 is provided as a separate
and distinct component from any VPA element configured to
facilitate the formation of a heat seal. In this regard, the
present invention overcomes various drawbacks of conventional VPAs
in which the cutting device is integrated or combined with a
heating element. For example, pre-seals can be formed in such
conventional VPA systems when the cutting devices are used to cut
container material from rolls and the heating element is still hot
from a previous iteration of VPA operations.
[0039] Next, the cut section of container material is used to form
a partially sealed container into which perishables or other
products (e.g., items 112 of FIG. 1) can be disposed. In this
regard, the VPA 200 is used to form a seal (e.g., seal 104 of FIG.
1) in an open end of the cut section of container material.
[0040] The seal is formed using a sealing mechanism of the VPA 200.
The sealing mechanism comprises a bumper 334 and at least one heat
sealing strip 336, 338. At least one of the components 334-338 of
the sealing mechanism is retractable for various reasons, as will
be described below. Still, at this time it should be understood
that the bumper 334 is disposed on the pivoting lid 202 and the
heat sealing strip 336, 338 is disposed on the base 210 of the VPA
200. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this
regard. For example, the bumper 334 can alternatively be disposed
on/in the base, while the heat sealing strip 336, 338 is disposed
on/in the pivoting lid 202. In all cases, the bumper 334 and heat
sealing strip 336, 338 are arranged to mate against each other when
the lid 202 is in its closed position and a heat seal is to be
formed. In effect, the open end of the container material can be
sandwiched between elements 334, 336, 338 of the sealing mechanism.
Thereafter, heat can be applied to the open end of the container
material via the heat sealing strip 336, 338 so as to form a heat
seal (e.g., seal 104 of FIG. 1) thereon.
[0041] After the perishables or other products have been disposed
within the partially sealed container, the remaining open end of
the partially sealed container is placed within the VPA 200. Next,
the lid 202 is once again transitioned into its locked closed
position. Thereafter, vacuum operations are performed by the VPA
200 to evacuate excess moisture and air from the interior of the
partially sealed container. The evacuation of excess moisture and
air is achieved using at least one vacuum pump 340 and a sealed
vacuum chamber. The evacuation of moisture and air from the
container minimizes the spoiling effects of oxygen on perishables
and other products. Once a predetermined pressure is reached in the
vacuum chamber as measured by a pressure sensor 506, a seal (e.g.,
seal 110 of FIG. 1) is formed along the remaining open end of the
partially sealed container inserted into the VPA 200, whereby a
hermetically sealed container is provided which retains the
freshness of the contents thereof.
[0042] The sealed vacuum chamber is formed by elements of the base
210 and lid 202. More specifically, the base 210 comprises a lower
vacuum trough 306 and a gasket 308. Similarly, the pivoting lid 202
comprises an upper vacuum trough 310 and a gasket 312. The troughs
306, 310 and gaskets 308, 312 are arranged to be respectively
vertically and horizontally aligned with each other when the lid
202 is in its closed position so as to form a composite sealed
vacuum chamber.
[0043] A Vacuum Motor Assembly ("VMA") 340 is disposed in the base
210 behind the lower vacuum trough 306 for providing evacuating
suction within the sealed vacuum chamber. Once a predetermined
pressure is reached in the vacuum chamber as measured by a pressure
sensor 506, current can be applied to the heat sealing strip(s)
336, 338 for heating the same to a specified temperature (e.g.,
160.degree. C. to 200.degree. C.). Notably, in some scenarios, the
vacuum operations are not completed until some specified time after
formation of the seal. This ensures that any additional food or
moisture between the two film layers between the newly formed seal
and respective open end of the container are removed.
[0044] The forgoing vacuum and sealing operations are controlled by
the user through use of a control panel 326. In some scenarios, the
control panel 326 is only operative when the lid 202 is in its
locked closed position. The control panel 326 is disposed on the
base 210 so as to be directly adjacent to the lid 202 when it is in
the closed position, as shown in FIG. 2. The control panel 326
comprises electronic control circuitry 504. The electronic control
circuitry 504 may be at least partially disposed on a circuit board
328. The circuit board 328 is located directly beneath the user
interface 330 of tae control panel 326.
[0045] The electronic control circuitry 504 is electrically
connected to the VMA 340, sealing mechanism 334-338, and/or power
circuit of the VPA 200. Operations of some or all of these
components 332-340 are controlled by the electronic control
circuitry 504. In this regard, the electronic control circuitry 504
can include, but is not limited to, a microprocessor 502, a system
bus, a memory, a system interface and/or other hardware/software
elements. The memory can comprise volatile memory and non-volatile
memory. Various types of information can be stored in the memory.
Such information includes, but is not limited to, processing
results, control programs, parameter values, and/or measurement
values.
[0046] The other hardware elements may comprise, but are not
limited to, temperature sensors 424, 426. The temperature sensors
424, 426 are disposed adjacent to or in proximity to the heat
sealing strip(s) 336, 338, respectively. In some scenarios, the
temperature sensors 424, 426 are located at various locations along
the entire length of the heat sealing strip 336, 338. In other
scenarios, the temperature sensors can alternatively or
additionally be disposed on the length of the bumper 334.
[0047] The temperature sensors 424, 426 are provided to
continuously or periodically measure the temperature of the heat
sealing strip(s) 336, 338. Such temperature detection can be used
to ensure that the proper sealing temperature is being applied
along the entire width of the container during the heat sealing
process, as well as other purposes as described below. In this
regard, measurement values output from the temperature sensors 424,
426 are communicated to the electronic control circuitry 504 for
further processing. For example, the microprocessor 502 may be
configured to determine a mean average temperature of the heat
sealing strip(s) 336, 338 and adjust current output thereto
accordingly. Current can be applied to the heat sealing strip(s)
336, 338 for a predetermined period of time such that the
temperature thereof is sufficient for forming a seal on an open end
of a container.
[0048] The other hardware elements may also comprise a liquid level
sensor 510. The liquid level sensor 510 is configured to detect an
amount of accumulated liquid in a drip tray 350 of the VPA 200. The
drip tray 350 rests in the lower vacuum trough 306 during operation
of the VPA 200 for collecting excess liquids evacuated from the
container (e.g., container 100 of FIG. 1). The drip tray 350 can be
removed from the lower vacuum trough 306 so that the evacuated
liquid can be discarded. The liquid level sensor 510 facilitates a
determination by the electronic control circuitry 504 as to when
the excess liquid should be removed. In this regard, the output of
the liquid level sensor 510 is communicated to the electronic
control circuitry 504 for further processing. This processing
involves analyzing the output of the liquid level sensor 510 to
detect when the liquid in the drip tray 350 exceeds a particular
threshold level. When this condition exists, the electronic control
circuitry 504 may perform operations to temporarily disable the VMA
340 and heat sealing elements 336, 338, as well as indicate to the
user that the excess liquid should be removed from the drip tray
350. Once the excess liquid is removed, the VMA 340 and heat
sealing elements 336, 338 are once again enabled.
[0049] The user interface 330 can include, but is not limited to,
switches 402-406, Light Emitting Diodes ("LEDs") 408-422, and/or a
display screen (not shown). One or more of the switches can be a
power switch configured to enable the turning on and/or off of the
VPA 200. When the power switch is in its "turned on" position,
power is supplied to the electronic control circuitry 504 from a
power circuit of the VPA 200 (e.g., transformer 332 and/or a
battery). The power circuit can include an internal power source
(e.g., a battery) or a plug 508 for connecting the VPA 200 to an
external power source (e.g., a wall mount socket).
[0050] One or more of the switches 402-406 can be configured to
enable a user to control the heat sealing operations. The same or
different switch 402-406 can be configured to control the vacuum
operations. For example, in some scenarios, it may be desirable to
commence only the heat sealing operations for sealing an open end
of the container material after being cut and prior to being filled
with perishables or other products. Additionally, it may be
desirable to commence: the vacuum operations once the perishables
or other products have been inserted into the partially sealed
container; and the heat sealing operations subsequent to the
evacuation of at least some fluid from the interior of the
container during the vacuum operations. One or more of the LEDs
408-422 or other indicia of the control panel 326 can be used to
indicate to the user when the heat sealing operations and/or the
vacuum operations are being performed and/or have been completed.
For example, an LED may emit red light when the heat sealing
operations are being performed. Once the heat sealing operations
are completed, the LED can cease emitting light.
[0051] As noted above, the heat sealing operations are achieved
using the sealing mechanism of the VPA 200. The sealing mechanism
comprises one or more retractable components. In some scenarios,
only one of the bumper 334 and heat scaling strip(s) 336, 338 is
retractable. In other scenarios, both the bumper 334 and heat
sealing strip(s) 336, 338 are retractable. Retraction of the
component(s) 334-338 can be initiated manually by the user via the
depressible lever 316 of the latch mechanism or automatically via
the electronic control circuitry 504 based on the existence of at
least one condition. For example, an automatic retraction of
component(s) 334-338 can be performed when: a pre-defined period of
time expires; a particular iteration of the vacuum and sealing
operations of the VPA are to begin; the temperature of the heat
sealing element exceeds a particular threshold value during a given
period of time; the pressure of the vacuum chamber is not at a
particular level; and/or a certain amount of liquid is detected in
a drip tray 350 of the VPA. When the particular condition no longer
exists, the component(s) 334-338 can be returned to its(their)
engaged position(s). This will become more evident as the
discussion progresses.
[0052] Referring now to FIGS. 7-12, there are provided schematic
illustrations that are useful for understanding various
architectures facilitating the retraction of the component(s)
334-338. Prior to discussing these schematic illustrations, it
should be understood that the VIA 200 overcomes various drawbacks
of conventional VPAs. For example, VPAs may be used in repetitive
vacuum and heat sealing operations, such as in hunting applications
in which a relatively large amount of game needs to be stored in
containers (e.g., container 100 of FIG. 1) within a short a period
of time. During such repetitive vacuum and heat sealing operations,
conventional VPAs do not meet the performance requirements since
pre-seals are formed on the containers before a sufficient amount
of fluid is evacuated therefrom. The pre-seals are created by the
heat sealing strip(s) 336, 338 which do not have a sufficient
amount of time to cool down prior to a next iteration of the VPA
vacuum and sealing operations.
[0053] Notably, the retractable component(s) 334-338 of the present
invention eliminate the formation of such pre-seals. As such, the
VPA 200 has an improved overall performance as compared to that of
conventional VPAs. Generally, the component(s) 334-338 of the
present invention are retracted from an engaged position in which a
heat seal can be formed along an open end of a container to an
unengaged position in which said heat seal cannot be formed. This
retraction prevents a heat sealing strip 336, 338 from pre-sealing
the container when it is still too hot from the previous heat
sealing operation. The manner in which the component(s) 334-338
is(are) retracted will become evident as the discussion progresses.
Notably, components 334-338 needs only be retracted by a relatively
small distance (e.g., <0.5 inches) in order to prevent
pre-sealing of a container.
[0054] Referring now to FIGS. 7-8, there are provided schematic
illustrations of a first exemplary architecture for a retractable
component 700 of a sealing mechanism of a VPA (e.g., VPA 200 of
FIG. 2). The retractable component 700 is shown as comprising a
heat element. However, the present invention is not limited in this
regard. Alternatively, the retractable component 700 may include a
bumper (e.g., bumper 334 of FIG. 3). In either case, at least a
portion of the retractable component 700 can be disposed in the
base 706 (e.g., base 210 of FIG. 2) of the VPA.
[0055] The retractable component 700 comprises a heat sealing strip
702 (e.g., heat sealing strip 336 or 338 of FIG. 3) and a support
structure 704 mechanically supporting the heat sealing strip. In
some scenarios, the support structure 704 comprises a rigid member
and a dielectric material. The rigid member can be configured to
act as a heat sink and have any suitable shape, such as a bar shape
or a planar shape. The dielectric material is disposed between the
rigid member and the heat sealing strip 702.
[0056] The heat sealing strip 702 is biased to an engaged position
via the support structure 704 and at least one resilient member
712, 714, 716. The resilient member 712, 714, 716 can comprise, but
is not limited to, a spring which is normally in its uncompressed
state. In the engaged position, the heat sealing strip can cause a
heat seal (e.g., seal 104, 106, 108 or 110 of FIG. 1) to be formed
on a container (e.g., container 100 of FIG. 1).
[0057] As shown in FIG. 8, the heat sealing strip 702 can be
retracted from the engaged position to an unengaged position. In
the unengaged position, the heat sealing strip cannot cause a seal
to be formed on a container. The retraction of the heat sealing
strip 702 can be achieved using the support structure 704, at least
one optional mechanic al retraction structure 718, 720 and/or at
least one electro-magnet 802, 804.
[0058] If the mechanical retraction structures 718, 720 are not
employed, then the electro-magnets 802, 804 cause the support
structure 704 to move in the direction of arrow 800 when current is
applied thereto. In effect, the heat sealing strip 702 is
transitioned from its engaged position shown in FIG. 7 to its
unengaged position shown in FIG. 8. Electro-magnets are well known
in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Still, it
should be understood that current can be applied to the
electro-magnets 802, 804 for applying a magnetic field to the
support structure 704. In some scenarios, the support structure is
formed of a ferrous material, and therefore can magnetically
interact with the electro-magnets 802, 804. In other scenarios, the
support structure is formed of a non-ferrous material. In this
case, a magnetic material (not shown) can be coupled to the support
structure for magnetically interacting With the electro-magnet.
When current is no longer applied to the electro-magnets 802, 804,
the heat sealing strip 702 returns to its engaged position shown in
FIG. 7.
[0059] The current can be applied to the electro-magnets 802, 804
by the electronic control circuitry (e.g., electronic control
circuitry 504 of FIG. 5) of the VPA upon the detection of the
existence of a particular condition. For example, current can be
applied to the electro-magnets 802, 804 when: a pre-defined period
of time expires; the Nth iteration of the vacuum and sealing
operations of a VPA are to begin; the temperature of the heat
sealing element 702 exceeds a particular threshold value during a
given period of time; the pressure of a vacuum chamber is not at a
particular level; and/or a level of liquid in a drip tray is above
a threshold level.
[0060] If the mechanical retraction structures 718, 720 are
employed, then the mechanical retraction structures 718, 720 move
the support structure 704 into and/or out of range of the magnetic
field created by the electro-magnets 802, 804. Accordingly, in some
scenarios, each mechanical retraction structure 718, 720 comprises
at least one component 722 which is movable in the two directions
shown by arrow 724. As shown in FIGS. 7-8, the component 722
resides above the support structure 704. Embodiments of the present
invention are not limited in this regard. For example, the
component 722 may additionally or alternatively reside below the
support structure 704. In these cases, a person skilled in the art
would readily appreciate that the following discussion can be
amended accordingly.
[0061] When moved in the downward direction, component 722 applies
a downward pushing force on the support structure 704 so as to move
it into range of the magnetic field. In effect, the support
structure magnetically interacts with the electro-magnet, thereby
causing the resilient members 712-716 to be retained in their
compressed state and the heat sealing strip 702 to be retained in
its unengaged position. In contrast, when current is no longer
supplied to the electro-magnets 802, 804 and/or the component 722
is moved in the upward direction, the resilient members 714-716
bias the support structure in an upwards direction. More
particularly, the resilient members 712-716 return to their
uncompressed states. Consequently, the heat sealing strip 702 is
returned to its engaged position shown in FIG.
[0062] In some scenarios, component 722 can be manually caused to
move downward by actuation of the depressible lever (e.g., lever
316 of FIG. 3) of the VPA, latch mechanism described above. When
this occurs, the heat sealing strip 702 is retracted below the top
surface of a base of the VPA, so as to prevent a container from
contacting the heat sealing strip 702 until a particular condition
exists. As noted above, the electro-magnets 802, 804 are used to
maintain the heat sealing strip 702 in its retracted or unengaged
position. Once the particular condition is detected, the
application of current to the electro-magnets 802, 804 can be
ceased. For example, such current application can be terminated
when: a pre-defined period of time expires; the temperature of heat
sealing strip falls below a threshold value; the pressure of a
vacuum chamber reaches a particular level; and/or a level of liquid
in a drip tray falls below a threshold level. In effect, the
support structure 704 no longer magnetically interacts with the
electro-magnets 802, 804, and therefore is once again biased to its
engaged position shown in FIG. 7 by the resilient members
712-716.
[0063] Additionally or alternatively, component 722 can be
automatically caused to move downward upon the detection of the
existence of a particular condition (e.g., the expiration of a
pre-defined period of time, the temperature of the heat sealing
element exceeds a particular threshold value during a given period
of time, the pressure of the vacuum chamber is not at a particular
level, and/or a level of liquid in a drip tray is above a threshold
level). When or prior to when the particular condition no longer
exists, the component 722 can be automatically caused to return to
its original position(s).
[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 9-10, there are provided schematic
illustrations of a second exemplary architecture for a retractable
component 900 of a sealing mechanism of a VPA (e.g., VPA 200 of
FIG. 2). The retractable component 900 is shown as comprising a
heat element. However, the present invention is not limited in this
regard. Alternatively, the retractable component 900 may include a
bumper (e.g., bumper 334 of FIG. 3). In either case, at least a
portion of the retractable component 900 can be disposed in the
base 906 (e.g., base 210 of FIG. 2) of the VPA.
[0065] The retractable component 900 comprises a heat sealing strip
902 (e.g., heat sealing strip 336 or 338 of FIG. 3) and a support
structure 904 (e.g., a bar) mechanically supporting the heat
sealing strip. In some scenarios, the support structure 904
comprises a rigid member and a dielectric material. The rigid
member can be configured to act as a heat sink and have any
suitable shape, such as a bar shape or a planar shape. The
dielectric material is disposed between the rigid member and the
heat sealing strip 902.
[0066] The heat sealing strip 902 is biased to an engaged position
via the support structure 904 and at least one resilient member
912, 914, 916. The resilient member 912, 914, 916 can comprise, but
is not limited to, a spring which is normally in its uncompressed
state. In the engaged position, the heat sealing strip can cause a
heat seal (e.g., seal 104, 106, 108 or 110 of FIG. 1) to be formed
on a container (e.g., container 100 of FIG. 1).
[0067] As shown in FIG. 10, the heat sealing strip 902 can be
retracted from the engaged position to an unengaged position. In
the unengaged position, the heat sealing strip cannot cause a seal
to be formed on a container. The retraction of the heat sealing
strip 902 can be achieved using the support structure 904, at least
one resilient member 912-916, and at least one electro-magnet 1002,
1004, 1006.
[0068] During operation, the electro-magnets 1002, 1004, 1006 cause
the resilient members 912-916 to compress in the direction of arrow
1000 when current is applied thereto. In this regard, it should be
understood that current can be applied to the electro-magnets 802,
804 by the electronic control circuitry (e.g., electronic control
circuitry 504 of FIG. 5) of the VPA upon the detection of the
existence of a particular condition. For example, current can be
applied to the electro-magnets 802, 804 when: a pre-defined period
of time expires; the temperature of the heat sealing element 902
exceeds a particular threshold value during a given period of time;
the pressure of a vacuum chamber is not at a particular level;
and/or a level of liquid in a drip tray is above a threshold
level.
[0069] Notably, the resilient members 912-916 are formed of a
ferrous material. Thus, when current is applied to the
electro-magnets 1002-1006, a magnetic field is applied to the
resilient members 912-916. In effect, the resilient members 912-916
magnetically interact with the electro-magnets 1002-1006, whereby
the resilient members 912-916 are caused to transition from their
uncompressed states shown in FIG. 9 to their compressed states
shown in FIG. 10. In turn, gravity causes the support structure 904
to travel in the downwards direction, as shown by arrow 1000.
Consequently, the heat sealing strip 902 is transitioned from its
engaged position shown in FIG. 9 to its unengaged position shown in
FIG. 10.
[0070] When current is no longer applied to the electro-magnets
1002-1006, the resilient members 912-916 return to their
uncompressed states shown in FIG. 9. As a result, the resilient
members 912-916 apply an upwards pushing force on the support
structure 904, whereby the support structure 904 is caused to
travel in the upwards direction. As a result, the heat sealing
strip 902 is returned to its engaged position shown in FIG. 9. The
resilient members 912-916 and support structure 904 maintain the
heat sealing strip 902 in its engaged position until current is
once again applied to the electro-magnets 1002-1006.
[0071] The application of current to the electro-magnets 1002-1006
can be ceased when certain conditions are detected. For example,
such current application can be terminated when: a pre-defined
period of time expires; the temperature of heat sealing strip falls
below a threshold value; the pressure of a vacuum chamber reaches a
particular level; and/or a level of liquid in a drip tray fails
below a threshold level.
[0072] Referring now to FIGS. 11-12, there are provided schematic
illustrations of a third exemplary architecture for a retractable
component 1100 of a sealing mechanism of a VPA (e.g., VPA 200 of
FIG. 2). The retractable component 1100 is shown as comprising a
bumper 1102 (e.g., bumper 334 of FIG. 3). However, the present
invention is not limited in this regard. Alternatively, the
retractable component 1100 may include a heat element (e.g., heat
element 702/704 of FIG. 7 or 902/904 of FIG. 9). In either case, at
least a portion of the retractable component 1100 can be disposed
in the lid 1106 (e.g., pivoting lid 202 of FIG. 2) of the VPA.
[0073] In some cases, the bumper 1102 is formed of a non-ferrous
material, such as rubber. As such, a magnetic material 1104 may be
disposed on a surface thereof. The magnetic material 1104 is
provided to facilitate the magnetic interaction between the bumper
1102 and at least one electro-magnet 1202-1206.
[0074] During operation, the bumper 1102 normally resides in its
engaged position shown in FIG. 11. In the engaged position, the
bumper 1102 applies pressure on an open end of a container which is
disposed therebelow. This pressure facilitates the formation of an
adequate heat seal along the open end of the container by a heat
element disposed in a base of a VPA.
[0075] Notably, the bumper 1102 can be retracted from the engaged
position shown in FIG. 11 to an unengaged position shown in FIG.
12. In the unengaged position, the bumper 1102 does not facilitate
the formation of any heat seal along an open end of the container.
The retraction of the bumper 1102 can be achieved using the
magnetic material 1104 and/or at least one electro-magnet
1202-1206.
[0076] In this regard, the electro-magnets 1202-1206 cause the
magnetic material 1104 to move in the direction of arrow 1208 when
current is applied thereto. In effect, the bumper 1102 is
transitioned from its engaged position shown in FIG. 11 to its
unengaged position shown in FIG. 12. Electro-magnets are well known
in the art, and therefore will not be described herein. Still, it
should be understood that current can be applied to the
electro-magnets 1202-1206 for applying a magnetic field to the
magnetic material 1104. The current can be applied to the
electro-magnets 1202-1206 by the electronic control circuitry
(e.g., electronic control circuitry 504 of FIG. 5) of the VPA upon
the detection of the existence of a particular condition. For
example, current can be applied to the electro-magnets 1202-1206
when: a pre-defined period of time expires; the Nth iteration of
vacuum and sealing operations are to be performed by a VPA; the
temperature of a heat sealing element exceeds a particular
threshold value during a given period of time; the pressure of a
vacuum chamber is not at a particular level; and/or a level of
liquid in a drip tray is above a threshold level.
[0077] Once the particular condition is detected, the application
of current to the electro-magnets 1202-1206 can be ceased. For
example, such current application can be terminated when: a
pre-defined period of time expires; the temperature of heat sealing
strip fails below a threshold value; the pressure of a vacuum
chamber reaches a particular level; and/or a level of liquid in a
drip tray falls below a threshold level. In effect, the magnetic
material 1104 no longer magnetically interacts with the
electro-magnets 1202-1206, and therefore the bumper 1102 and
magnetic material 1104 fall in a downward direction as a result of
gravitational forces applied thereto. Consequently, the bumper 1102
is returned to its engaged position shown in FIG. 11.
[0078] Referring now to FIG. 13, there is provided a flow diagram
of an exemplary method 1300 for selectively retracting a first
component of a VPA (e.g., VPA 200 of FIG. 2). The method 1300
begins with step 1302 and continues with step 1304. In step 1304,
the first component is caused to normally be in an engaged position
in which the first component facilitates a formation of a heat seal
(e.g., seal 104, 106, 108, or 110 of FIG. 1) along an open end of a
container (e.g., container 100 of FIG. 1) disposed within the WA.
The first component can include, but is not limited to, a support
structure (e.g., support structure 704 of FIG. 7 or 904 of FIG. 9)
for a heat sealing strip (e.g., heat sealing strip 336, 338 of FIG.
3, 702 of FIG. 7, or 802 of FIG. 8) configured to apply heat to the
open end of the container during heat sealing operations of the VPA
or a bumper (e.g., bumper 334 of FIG. 3 or 1102 of FIG. 11)
configured to apply pressure to the open end of the container
during heat sealing operations of the VPA. In some scenarios, the
first component is biased into the engaged position using at least
one resilient member (e.g., resilient member 712, 714, 716 of FIG.
7 or 912, 914, 916 of FIG. 9) disposed within a base of the
VPA.
[0079] Thereafter, step 1306 is performed in which an existence of
at least one first condition associated with the VPA is detected.
In some scenarios, the first condition comprises, but is not
limited to, at least one of the following: expiration of a
pre-defined period of time; a start of a particular iteration of
vacuum and sealing operations performed by the VPA; an excessive
temperature of a heat sealing element e.g., heat sealing strip 336,
338 of FIG. 3, 702 of FIG. 7, or 802 of FIG. 8); an excess of fluid
in the container or a vacuum chamber of the VPA vacuum chamber
306-312 of FIG. 3); and an excess of liquid in a drip tray of the
VPA (e.g., drip tray 350 of FIG. 3).
[0080] When the first condition is detected, a magnetic field is
applied in proximity to the first component, as shown by step 1308.
The magnetic field can be generated through a supply of current to
at least one electro-magnet (e.g., electro-magnet 802, 804 of FIG.
8, 1002-1106 of FIG. 10, and/or 1202-1206 of FIG. 12) disposed
within a base (e.g., base 210 of FIG. 2) or a pivoting lid (e.g.,
lid 202 of FIG. 2) of the VPA. As a result the application of the
magnetic field, the first component is at least maintained in an
unengaged position in which the first component no longer
facilitates the formation of the heat seal.
[0081] In some scenarios, the first component is formed of a
ferrous material or has a ferrous material coupled thereto such
that the magnetic field causes the first component to be
transitioned from the engaged position to the unengaged position.
Additionally or alternatively, the resilient member is normally in
an uncompressed state and the magnetic field causes the resilient
member to transition from the uncompressed state to a compressed
state. In other scenarios, the first component is moved into range
of the magnetic field using a mechanical retraction structure as
shown by steps 1310 and 1312. The mechanical retraction structure
can be manually actuated by depressing a lever of a latch mechanism
configured to lock a lid of the VPA in a closed position.
[0082] The application of the magnetic field can be terminated when
the first condition no longer exists or a second condition is
detected, as shown by step 1314. The second condition can include,
but is not limited to, at least one of the following: expiration of
a pre-defined period of time; a completion of a particular
iteration of vacuum operations performed by the VPA; a start of a
particular iteration of heat sealing operations performed by the
VPA; a reduction of a temperature of a heat sealing element to at
least a first threshold level; a reduction in a fluid pressure
level within the container or a vacuum chamber of the VPA to at
least a second threshold level; and a reduction of a liquid level
in a drip tray of the VPA to at least a third threshold level. Upon
completing step 1314, step 1316 is performed where method 1300 ends
or other processing is performed.
[0083] As noted above, the present invention uses a novel approach
to at least maintaining heat sealing strips or other components
facilitating the formation of a heat seal in their unengaged
positions. The novel approach involves employing electro-magnets.
The electro-magnets provide a simpler, less complex, and less
costly technique for raising and lowering such heat sealing
components as compared to other conventional techniques (e.g., such
as those that employ expandable air bladders, pneumatic cylinders
and/or hydraulic cylinders).
[0084] Although the invention has been illustrated and described
with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations
and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the
reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed
drawings. In addition, while a particular feature of the invention
may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several
implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more
other features of the other implementations as may be desired and
advantageous for any given or particular application. Thus, the
breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by
any of the above described embodiments. Rather, the scope of the
invention should be defined accordance with the following claims
and their equivalents.
* * * * *