U.S. patent application number 15/097504 was filed with the patent office on 2016-10-20 for multilayer film used with flexible packaging.
The applicant listed for this patent is DS Smith Plastics Limited. Invention is credited to Paul N. Georgelos.
Application Number | 20160304332 15/097504 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 57128471 |
Filed Date | 2016-10-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160304332 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Georgelos; Paul N. |
October 20, 2016 |
MULTILAYER FILM USED WITH FLEXIBLE PACKAGING
Abstract
The present disclosure describes a multilayer film for use in
making a bag for bag in a box packaging. The film includes a first
layer made of a PE material, a second layer adjacent the first
layer made of a PE material and further including an oxygen
scavenger, a third layer adjacent the second layer made of an
adhesive resin material, a fourth layer adjacent the third layer
made of a polyamide material, a fifth layer adjacent the fourth
layer made of an EVOH material, a sixth layer adjacent the fifth
layer made of a polyamide material, a seventh layer adjacent the
sixth layer made of an adhesive resin material, an eighth layer
adjacent the seventh layer made of a PE material, and a ninth layer
adjacent the eighth layer made of a PE material.
Inventors: |
Georgelos; Paul N.;
(Naperville, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DS Smith Plastics Limited |
London |
|
GB |
|
|
Family ID: |
57128471 |
Appl. No.: |
15/097504 |
Filed: |
April 13, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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62149265 |
Apr 17, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B67D 3/0067 20130101;
B32B 2307/732 20130101; B32B 7/12 20130101; B65B 3/045 20130101;
B65D 77/06 20130101; B32B 27/327 20130101; B32B 2307/7265 20130101;
B65D 77/067 20130101; B32B 3/08 20130101; B65B 55/08 20130101; B32B
2307/31 20130101; B32B 2439/70 20130101; B32B 2250/05 20130101;
B32B 2307/581 20130101; B32B 2307/74 20130101; B32B 2439/06
20130101; B32B 27/32 20130101; B65B 9/00 20130101; B67D 3/045
20130101; B32B 2307/546 20130101; B67D 3/043 20130101; B32B
2307/7244 20130101; B32B 27/08 20130101; B32B 27/18 20130101; B32B
27/34 20130101; B32B 2439/46 20130101; B65B 55/022 20130101; B32B
27/306 20130101; B65B 55/103 20130101; B32B 3/266 20130101; B32B
2307/5825 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B67D 3/00 20060101
B67D003/00; B65D 77/06 20060101 B65D077/06; B32B 7/12 20060101
B32B007/12; B32B 27/32 20060101 B32B027/32; B32B 27/34 20060101
B32B027/34; B65D 65/38 20060101 B65D065/38; B32B 27/08 20060101
B32B027/08 |
Claims
1. A multilayer film for use in making a bag for bag in a box
packaging, comprising: a first layer comprising a polyethylene
material; a second layer adjacent the first layer comprising a
polyethylene material and further comprising an oxygen scavenger; a
third layer adjacent the second layer comprising an adhesive resin
material; a fourth layer adjacent the third layer comprising a
polyamide material; a fifth layer adjacent the fourth layer
comprising an EVOH material; a sixth layer adjacent the fifth layer
comprising a polyamide material; a seventh layer adjacent the sixth
layer comprising an adhesive resin material; an eighth layer
adjacent the seventh layer comprising a polyethylene material; and
a ninth layer adjacent the eighth layer comprising a polyethylene
material.
2. The multilayer film of claim 1, wherein the first layer is a
sealant layer that contacts liquid in the packaging.
3. The multilayer film of claim 1, wherein the oxygen scavenger is
an iron oxide oxygen scavenger.
4. The multilayer film of claim 1, wherein the fourth and sixth
layers include nylon.
5. The multilayer film of claim 1, wherein the fifth layer has a 27
mole percent ethylene content.
6. The multilayer film of claim 1, wherein the film is used to make
a sealed pouch having an aperture to which is connected a spout,
and the spout is connected to a fluid dispenser.
7. The multilayer film of claim 6, wherein the pouch has a
thickness in the range of 35 to 150 microns.
8. The multilayer film of claim 1, wherein the film has an oxygen
transfer rate of no more than 0.02 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hours at 0%
relative humidity.
9. The multilayer film of claim 1, wherein the first, second,
eighth, and ninth layers comprise an LLDPE material
10. A multilayer film for use in making a bag for bag in a box
packaging, comprising: a first layer comprising a polyethylene
material; a second layer adjacent the first layer comprising a
polyethylene material; a third layer adjacent the second layer
comprising an adhesive resin material; a fourth layer adjacent the
third layer comprising a polyamide material; a fifth layer adjacent
the fourth layer comprising an EVOH material; a sixth layer
adjacent the fifth layer comprising a polyamide material; a seventh
layer adjacent the sixth layer comprising an adhesive resin
material; an eighth layer adjacent the seventh layer comprising a
polyethylene material; a ninth layer adjacent the eighth layer
comprising a ULDPE material; a tenth layer adjacent the ninth layer
comprising a ULDPE material; an eleventh layer adjacent the tenth
layer comprising a polyethylene material; a twelfth layer adjacent
the eleventh layer comprising an adhesive resin material; a
thirteenth layer adjacent the twelfth layer comprising a polyamide
material; a fourteenth layer adjacent the thirteenth layer
comprising an EVOH material; a fifteenth layer adjacent the
fourteenth layer comprising a polyamide material; a sixteenth layer
adjacent the fifteenth layer comprising an adhesive resin material;
a seventeenth layer adjacent the sixteenth layer comprising a
polyethylene material, and an eighteenth layer adjacent the
seventeenth layer comprising a polyethylene material.
11. The film of claim 10, wherein the first layer is a sealant
layer that contacts liquid in the packaging.
12. The film of claim 11, wherein the second layer further includes
an oxygen scavenger.
13. The film of claim 10, wherein the fourth, sixth, thirteenth,
and fifteenth layers include nylon.
14. The film of claim 12, wherein the fifth and fourteenth layers
have a mole percent ethylene content of 29%.
15. The film of claim 12, wherein the fifth and fourteenth layers
have a mole percent ethylene content of 27%.
16. The multilayer film of claim 10, wherein the film is used to
make a sealed pouch having an aperture to which is connected a
spout, and the spout is connected to a fluid dispenser.
17. The multilayer film of claim 16, wherein the pouch has a
thickness in the range of 35 to 150 microns.
18. The multilayer film of claim 10, wherein the film has an oxygen
transfer rate of no more than 0.01 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hours at 0%
relative humidity.
19. The multilayer film of claim 10, wherein the first, second,
eighth, eleventh, seventeenth, and eighteenth layers comprise an
LLDPE material.
20. A multilayer film for use in making a bag for bag in a box
packaging, comprising: a first layer comprising a polyethylene
material; a second layer adjacent the first layer comprising a
polyethylene material and further comprising an oxygen scavenger; a
third layer adjacent the second layer comprising an adhesive resin
material; a fourth layer adjacent the third layer comprising an
EVOH material; a fifth layer adjacent the fourth layer comprising
an adhesive resin material; a sixth layer adjacent the fifth layer
comprising a polyethylene material; and a seventh layer adjacent
the sixth layer comprising a polyethylene material.
21. Packaging for a liquid beverage, comprising: a fluid dispenser;
a pouch defining an interior region and including an aperture, the
pouch made of a film comprising: a first layer comprising a PE
material, a second layer adjacent the first layer comprising a PE
material and further comprising an oxygen scavenger, a third layer
adjacent the second layer comprising an adhesive resin material, a
fourth layer adjacent the third layer comprising a polyamide
material, a fifth layer adjacent the fourth layer comprising an
EVOH material, a sixth layer adjacent the fifth layer comprising a
polyamide material, a seventh layer adjacent the sixth layer
comprising an adhesive resin material, an eighth layer adjacent the
seventh layer comprising a PE material, and a ninth layer adjacent
the eighth layer comprising a PE material; and a spout connected to
the pouch at the aperture and the fluid dispenser being connected
to the spout such that the fluid dispenser is in fluid
communication with the interior region of the pouch; wherein, when
the fluid dispenser defines a fluid passageway for fluid to flow
out of the fluid dispenser via a dispensing port.
22. The packaging of claim 21, further including a container,
wherein the container includes an aperture, the pouch is positioned
inside the container, and the fluid dispenser is secured in the
aperture in the container and extends at least partly outside of
the container.
23. The packaging of claim 21, wherein the oxygen transfer rate of
the packaging is no more than 0.03 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hours at 0%
relative humidity.
24. The packaging of claim 21, wherein the fluid dispenser is made
of a material that includes an oxygen scavenger.
25. The packaging of claim 21, wherein the fluid dispenser has a
flow configuration and a sealed configuration and comprises: a main
body having an outer flow surface and an inner flow surface, the
outer flow surface having an opening therethrough defining the
dispensing port; a dome member; and a valve member having a face
and being coupled to the dome member; wherein, when the fluid
dispenser is in the flow configuration, the outer flow surface,
inner flow surface, and face define the fluid passageway for fluid
to flow exteriorly to the inner flow surface, interiorly to out of
the outer flow surface, and exit the fluid dispenser via the
dispensing port.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to, and claims priority to, U.S.
Provisional Application No. 62/149,265, filed Apr. 17, 2015, titled
"Multilayer Film Used With Flexible Packaging," the complete
subject matter and contents of which are incorporated herein by
reference in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a multilayer film used with
packaging, and in particular a multilayer film used as a flexible
liner connected to a tap as part of packaging for liquids.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Liquid beverages, such as wine, are often sold in
bag-in-a-box packaging that includes a flexible bag or liner
positioned in a box and connected to a tap or faucet that extends
out of the box. The liquid is stored in the bag and a user
dispenses the liquid from the packaging by activating the tap. Some
liquid beverages, such as wine, that are stored and sold in a
bag-in-a-box packaging system are highly oxygen sensitive. That is,
exposure to oxygen can cause the wine to spoil and therefore affect
the shelf life of the wine. The bags for such packaging systems are
typically made from a film of ethylene vinyl alcohol ("EVOH").
[0004] Wine manufacturers add sulfites to packaged wine that act as
a preservative to prevent spoilage and oxidation of the wine. While
EVOH-based films provide a barrier to oxygen transfer, the EVOH
films from which the liner bags are made do not completely prevent
oxygen from seeping into the bag over time. That is, oxygen can
enter the bag through the film of the bag from the outside
environment at a given oxygen transmission rate ("OTR"). Typical
wine bag films have an OTR of 0.05 cc/100 in.sup.2/day at 73
degrees Fahrenheit and 0% relative humidity. As oxygen enters the
bag from the external environment, the oxygen uses up the sulfite
preservatives in the bag and can then react or oxidize the wine,
which spoils it. Oxygen can also enter the bag through the tap to
which the bag is connected. Moreover, oxygen may be located in the
headspace of the bag after the bag is filled with wine and sealed
during the packaging process, and oxygen can also escape from the
wine itself over time and fill the headspace in the bag.
Consequently, wine stored with sulfites in a sealed flexible bag
still can spoil due to exposure to oxygen over time and, thus, has
a limited shelf life.
[0005] More sulfites can be added to the wine during the packaging
process to help prevent oxidation and extend the shelf life of the
wine, but too many sulfites can negatively affect the taste of the
wine. In addition, oxygen in the headspace of the bag can be
replaced with an inert gas like nitrogen during the packaging
process, but replacing oxygen in the headspace with an inert gas
does not prevent the ingress of oxygen into the bag from the
outside environment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Certain aspects of the present technology provide a
multilayer film for use in making a bag for bag in a box packaging.
The film includes a first layer made of a PE material, a second
layer adjacent the first layer made of a PE material and further
including an oxygen scavenger, a third layer adjacent the second
layer made of an adhesive resin material, a fourth layer adjacent
the third layer made of a polyamide material, a fifth layer
adjacent the fourth layer made of an EVOH material, a sixth layer
adjacent the fifth layer made of a polyamide material, a seventh
layer adjacent the sixth layer made of an adhesive resin material,
an eighth layer adjacent the seventh layer made of a PE material,
and a ninth layer adjacent the eighth layer made of a PE
material.
[0007] In some embodiments, the first layer is a sealant layer that
contacts liquid in the packaging, the oxygen scavenger is an iron
oxide oxygen scavenger, and/or the fourth and sixth layers include
nylon. In some embodiments, the fifth layer has a 27 mole percent
ethylene content. In addition, the pouch may have a thickness in
the range of 35 to 150 microns. Further, the film may have an
oxygen transfer rate of no more than 0.006 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hours
at 0% relative humidity.
[0008] Certain aspects of the present technology provide a
multilayer film for use in making a bag for bag in a box packaging.
The film includes a first layer made of a PE material, a second
layer adjacent the first layer made of a PE material, a third layer
adjacent the second layer made of an adhesive resin material, a
fourth layer adjacent the third layer made of a polyamide material,
a fifth layer adjacent the fourth layer made of an EVOH material, a
sixth layer adjacent the fifth layer made of a polyamide material,
a seventh layer adjacent the sixth layer made of an adhesive resin
material, an eighth layer adjacent the seventh layer made of a PE
material, a ninth layer adjacent the eighth layer made of a ULDPE
material, a tenth layer adjacent the ninth layer made of a ULDPE
material, an eleventh layer adjacent the tenth layer made of a PE
material, a twelfth layer adjacent the eleventh layer made of an
adhesive resin material, a thirteenth layer adjacent the twelfth
layer made of a polyamide material, a fourteenth layer adjacent the
thirteenth layer made of an EVOH material, a fifteenth layer
adjacent the fourteenth layer made of a polyamide material, a
sixteenth layer adjacent the fifteenth layer made of an adhesive
resin material, a seventeenth layer adjacent the sixteenth layer
made of a PE material, and an eighteenth layer adjacent the
seventeenth layer made of a PE material.
[0009] In some embodiments, the first layer is a sealant layer that
contacts liquid in the packaging, the second layer further includes
an oxygen scavenger, and/or the fourth, sixth, thirteenth, and
fifteenth layers include nylon. In some embodiments, the fifth and
fourteenth layers have a mole percent ethylene content of 29%, and
in some embodiments the fifth and fourteenth layers have a mole
percent ethylene content of 27%. In addition, the film may be used
to make a sealed pouch having an aperture to which is connected a
spout, and the spout is connected to a fluid dispenser. The pouch
may have a thickness in the range of 35 to 150 microns. Further,
the film may have an oxygen transfer rate of no more than 0.003
cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hours at 0% relative humidity.
[0010] Certain aspects of the present technology include packaging
for a liquid beverage. The packaging includes a fluid dispenser
having a flow configuration and a sealed configuration. The fluid
dispenser may include a main body having an outer flow surface and
an inner flow surface, the outer flow surface having an opening
therethrough defining a dispensing port. The fluid dispenser may
further include a dome member and a valve member having a face and
being coupled to the dome member. The packaging also includes a
pouch defining an interior region and including an aperture. The
pouch is made of a film including a first layer made of a PE
material, a second layer adjacent the first layer made of a PE
material and including an oxygen scavenger, a third layer adjacent
the second layer made of an adhesive resin material, a fourth layer
adjacent the third layer made of a polyamide material, a fifth
layer adjacent the fourth layer made of an EVOH material, a sixth
layer adjacent the fifth layer made of a polyamide material, a
seventh layer adjacent the sixth layer made of an adhesive resin
material, an eighth layer adjacent the seventh layer made of a PE
material, and a ninth layer adjacent the eighth layer made of a PE
material. The packaging further includes a spout connected to the
pouch at the aperture, and the fluid dispenser is connected to the
spout such that the fluid dispenser is in fluid communication with
the interior region of the pouch. When the fluid dispenser is in
the flow configuration, the outer flow surface, inner flow surface,
and face define a fluid passageway for fluid to flow exteriorly to
the inner flow surface, interiorly to the outer flow surface, and
exit the fluid dispenser via the dispensing port.
[0011] In some embodiments, the packaging also includes a
container, wherein the container includes an aperture, and the
pouch is positioned inside the container, and the fluid dispenser
is secured in the aperture in the container and extends at least
partly outside of the container.
[0012] Certain aspects of the present technology provide a
multilayer film for use in making a bag for bag in a box packaging.
The film includes a first layer made of a PE material, a second
layer adjacent the first layer made of a PE material and further
including an oxygen scavenger, a third layer adjacent the second
layer made of an adhesive resin material, a fourth layer adjacent
the third layer made of an EVOH material, a fifth layer adjacent
the fourth layer made of an adhesive resin material, a sixth layer
adjacent the fifth layer made of a polyethylene material, and a
seventh layer adjacent the sixth layer made of a polyethylene
material.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a multilayer film
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional side view of a multilayer film
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of a bag in box packaging system
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 4 shows a 3-dimensional view of an example of a fluid
dispenser.
[0017] FIG. 5 shows a cutaway view of the fluid dispenser of FIG.
4.
[0018] FIG. 6 shows a 3-dimensional view of an example of a dome
member.
[0019] FIG. 7 shows a cutaway view of the dome member of FIG.
6.
[0020] FIG. 8 shows a cutaway view of an example of a main body of
the fluid dispenser of FIG. 5.
[0021] FIG. 9 shows another cutaway view of an example of a main
body of the fluid dispenser of FIG. 5.
[0022] FIG. 10 shows a 3-dimensional view of the front of a main
body of the fluid dispenser of FIG. 5.
[0023] FIG. 11 shows a 3-dimensional view of an example of the
valve member.
[0024] FIG. 12 shows a 3-dimensional view of an example of the
valve member of FIG. 11.
[0025] FIG. 13 shows a cutaway view of the valve member of FIGS. 11
and 12.
[0026] FIG. 14 shows a 3-dimensional view of an example of a
cap.
[0027] FIG. 15 shows 3-dimensional view of an example of the cap of
FIG. 14.
[0028] FIG. 16 shows a cutaway view of the fluid dispenser of FIG.
5 in an open or flow configuration.
[0029] FIG. 17 shows a detailed cutaway view of the valve member
and body of FIG. 16.
[0030] FIG. 18 shows a 3-dimensional view of an example of a fluid
dispenser.
[0031] FIG. 19 shows a cutaway view of the fluid dispenser of FIG.
18.
[0032] FIG. 20 shows a bottom view of the fluid dispenser of FIGS.
18 and 19.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0033] The present invention relates to a film for use in a bag or
liner that is part of a bag-in-a-box packaging system. The bag is
made of multilayered polymeric sheets of film. The bag contains
liquids, and, in particular, wine. FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional
side view of a multilayer film 10 that is used to make the bag. In
particular, the film 10 includes nine layers.
[0034] Layers 14 and 18 may be made of polyethylene ("PE"). In
particular, and by way of example, layers 14 and 18 may be made of
linear low-density polyethylene ("LLDPE"). Dow Dowlex 2045 or Nova
Chemicals FP120C are two examples of suitable LLDPEs. Furthermore,
and alternatively, the layers 14 and 18 can be composed of m-LLDPE
(metallocene catalyzed LLDPE such as ExxonMobil's Exceed resins or
Dow Chemical's Elite resins), m-PE (metallocene catalyzed
polyethylene with densities below 0.915 cc/g such as ExxonMobil's
Exact resins or Dow Chemical's Affinity resins), EVAs (Ethylene
Vinyl Acetate copolymers like DuPont's Elvax resins), ionomers like
DuPont's Surlyn resins, LDPE (Low Density Polyethylene), HDPE (High
Density Polyethylene), or PP (Polypropylene) or ethylene propylene
copolymers like Dow's Versify resins or combinations of the
aforementioned polymers. The choice of polymer type depends on the
properties required in the bag.
[0035] Layer 18 is the first layer, or innermost sealant layer.
Layer 18 is in contact with the liquid contents of the bag. Layer
14 is the ninth, or outermost, layer of the film 10, and is in
contact with the environment outside of the bag.
[0036] Layer 22 is the eighth layer and is adjacent and inside of
the outer layer 14. Layer 22 may also be made of PE, and, more
particularly and by way of example, LLDPE. Layer 26 is the second
layer and is adjacent and inside of the inner layer 18. Layer 26
may also be made of PE, and, more particularly and by way of
example, LLDPE. Layers 22 and 26 may be made of Dow Dowlex 2045 or
Nova Chemical Sclair FP120C. Furthermore, and alternatively, the
layers 22 and 26 can be composed of m-LLDPE (metallocene catalyzed
LLDPE such as ExxonMobil's Exceed resins or Dow Chemical's Elite
resins), m-PE (metallocene catalyzed PE with densities below 0.915
cc/g such as ExxonMobil's Exact resins or Dow Chemical's Affinity
resins), EVAs (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate copolymers like DuPont's
Elvax resins), ionomers like DuPont's Surlyn resins, LDPE, HDPE or
PP or ethylene propylene copolymers like Dow's Versify resins or
combinations of the aforementioned polymers. The choice of polymer
type depends on the properties required in the bag. Layer 26 also
includes an oxygen scavenger or absorber. By way of example only,
the oxygen scavenger is an iron oxide oxygen scavenger. However,
any number of other kinds of oxygen scavengers can be used. An
example of a suitable oxygen scavenger is Albis Plastic GmbH
Shelfplus O2 technology.
[0037] Layers 30 and 34 are the seventh and third layers,
respectively. Layer 30 is adjacent and inside of layer 22, and
layer 34 is adjacent and inside of layer 26. Layers 30 and 34 are
adhesive resin or tie layers. In particular, and by way of example,
layers 30 and 34 may be made of maleic anhydride grafted polyolefin
polymers such as Equistar's Plexar 3236 or Dupont Bynel 4104.
[0038] Layers 38 and 42 are the sixth and fourth layers,
respectively. Layer 38 is adjacent and inside of layer 30, and
layer 42 is adjacent and inside of layer 34. Layers 38 and 42 are
polyamide ("PA") layers. In particular, and by way of example,
layers 38 and 42 may be made of nylon 6, nylon 6,6, nylon 6,66,
nylon 11, or nylon 12. An example of a suitable nylon 6 is
Honeywell's Aegis H85QP, and an example of a suitable nylon 6,66 is
BASF's Ultramid C33L01.
[0039] Central layer 46 is between and adjacent to layers 38 and 42
and is an EVOH layer. By way of example only, the EVOH copolymer
has a 27 mole percent ethylene content. In particular, and by way
of example, layer 46 may be made of Kuraray's EVAL L171.
Alternatively, a suitable EVOH to use is a 29 mol percent ethylene
grade from Soarus called Soarnol D2908.
[0040] The multilayer film 10 may be made by any suitable method
for producing multi-layer polyethylene films, including blown or
cast extrusions or co-extrusions or laminating processes known in
the art. One blown film extrusion method is disclosed in U.S. Pat.
No. 8,734,710, which is incorporated herein by reference. With
respect to FIG. 3, the film 10 is used to create a sealed pouch or
bag 126 with an aperture, and a fitment or spout 130 is attached or
sealed to the bag 126 and aligned with the aperture. The pouches
manufactured using the films of the invention may range in volume
from generally 500 ml to 50 liters.
[0041] During the packaging process, the bag 126 is filled with a
beverage liquid, such as wine, through the spout 130. The wine may
contain sulfites. Once the bag 126 is filled with wine, the spout
130 of the bag 126 is connected to a tap 134. The bag 126 is then
placed in a container 138 such as a corrugated box, and the tap 134
is inserted through an aperture in the side of the box 138 such
that the dispenser of the tap 134 is located outside of the box 138
and the tap 134 is securely mounted to the box 138. The tap 134
includes an adapter or coupler 224 (FIG. 4) that is connected and
secured to the fitment or spout 130 on the bag 126. In particular,
the tap 134 may be one like those described in U.S. Pat. App. Ser.
No. 62/002,377, which was filed on May 23, 2014, and
PCT/US2015/31926, published as WO 2015179614, which was filed on
May 21, 2015. The entirety of U.S. Pat. App. Ser. No. 62/002,377
and PCT/US2015/31926 is incorporated herein by reference.
Furthermore, the taps disclosed in those applications are discussed
in greater detail below.
[0042] In operation, the bag 126 made of the film 10 forms an
active barrier to help reduce oxidation and OTR into the bag 126
after the bag 126 has been filled with the wine. First, the film 10
having the nine layer structure and properties described above
creates an improved high barrier to OTR and thus helps limit the
amount of oxygen that can ingress into the bag through the film. In
addition, the oxygen scavenger in layer 26 of the film 10 absorbs
oxygen that is located in the headspace of the bag 126 after the
packaging process and oxygen that may escape from the wine. The
oxygen scavenger also absorbs oxygen that may pass through the
barrier created by the film 10 of the bag 126 or that passes into
the bag 126 through the tap 134. However, because the oxygen
scavenger is located in the layer 26, which is adjacent to the
first, or sealant, layer 18, the oxygen scavenger does not come
into contact with the wine contents of the bag 126 and, therefore,
does not affect the taste of the wine.
[0043] FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional side view of another
embodiment of a multilayer film 50 that is used to make the bag
126. The film 50 has 18 layers. Layers 54 and 58 may be made of PE,
and, in particular, LLDPE+m-LLDPE. By way of example, layers 54 and
58 may be made of Nova Chemicals Sclair FP-120C and Exxon Mobil
Exceed 1018 CA. Furthermore, and alternatively, the layers 54 and
58 can be composed of m-LLDPE (metallocene catalyzed LLDPE such as
ExxonMobil's Exceed resins or Dow Chemical's Elite resins), m-PE
(metallocene catalyzed PE with densities below 0.915 cc/g such as
ExxonMobil's Exact resins or Dow Chemical's Affinity resins), EVAs
(Ethylene Vinyl Acetate copolymers like DuPont's Elvax resins),
ionomers like DuPont's Surlyn resins, LDPE, HDPE or PP or ethylene
propylene copolymers like Dow's Versify resins or combinations of
the aforementioned polymers. The choice of polymer type depends on
the properties required in the bag. Layer 58 is the first layer, or
innermost sealant layer, and is in contact with the liquid contents
of the bag. Layer 54 is the eighteenth, or outermost, layer of the
film 10, and is in contact with the environment outside of the
bag.
[0044] Layer 62 is the seventeenth layer and is adjacent and inside
of outer layer 54. Layer 62 is made of PE, and in particular may be
made of LLDPE, and may include an oxygen scavenger. Layer 66 is the
second layer and is adjacent and inside of the inner layer 58.
Layer 66 may also be made of PE, and in particular may be made of
LLDPE, and may include an oxygen scavenger. In particular, and by
way of example, layers 62 and 66 may be made of Nova Chemical
Sclair FP120C. Furthermore, the polyethylene layers can be composed
of m-LLDPE (metallocene catalyzed LLDPE such as ExxonMobil's Exceed
resins or Dow Chemical's Elite resins), m-PE (metallocene catalyzed
PE with densities below 0.915 cc/g such as ExxonMobil's Exact
resins or Dow Chemical's Affinity resins), EVAs (Ethylene Vinyl
Acetate copolymers like DuPont's Elvax resins), ionomers, LDPE,
HDPE or PP or combinations of the aforementioned polymers.
[0045] Layers 70 and 74 are the sixteenth and third layers,
respectively. Layer 70 is adjacent and inside of layer 62, and
layer 74 is adjacent and inside of layer 66. Layers 70 and 74 are
adhesive resin or tie layers. In particular, and by way of example,
layers 70 and 74 may be made of maleic anhydride grafted polyolefin
polymers such as Equistar's Plexar 3236 or Dupont Bynel 4104.
[0046] Layers 78 and 82 are the fifteenth and fourth layers,
respectively. Layer 78 is adjacent and inside of layer 70, and
layer 82 is adjacent and inside of layer 74. Layers 78 and 82 are
polyamide layers. In particular, and by way of example, layers 78
and 82 may be made of nylon 6, nylon 6,6, nylon 6,66, nylon 11, or
nylon 12. By way of example, layers 78 and 82 may be made of BASF
Ultramid 40L or Honeywell Aegis H85QP.
[0047] Layers 86 and 90 are the fourteenth and fifth layers,
respectively. Layer 86 is adjacent and inside of layer 78, and
layer 90 is adjacent and inside of layer 82. Layers 86 and 90 are
EVOH layers. By way of example only, the EVOH copolymer has a 27 or
29 mole percent ethylene content. In particular, and by way of
example, layers 86 and 90 may be made of Kuraray EVAL L171 or
Soarus Soarnol D2908.
[0048] Layers 94 and 98 are the thirteenth and sixth layers,
respectively. Layer 94 is adjacent and inside of layer 86, and
layer 98 is adjacent and inside of layer 90. Layers 94 and 98 are
polyamide layers. In particular, and by way of example, layers 78
and 82 may be made of nylon 6, nylon 6,6, nylon 6,66, nylon 11, or
nylon 12. By way of example, layers 94 and 98 may be made of
Honeywell Aegis H85QP or BASF Ultramid C33L01.
[0049] Layers 102 and 106 are the twelfth and seventh layers,
respectively. Layer 102 is adjacent and inside of layer 94, and
layer 106 is adjacent and inside of layer 98. Layers 102 and 106
are adhesive resin or tie layers. In particular, and by way of
example, layers 102 and 106 may be made of maleic anhydride grafted
polyolefin polymers such as Equistar Plexar 3236.
[0050] Layers 110 and 114 are the eleventh and eighth layers,
respectively. Layer 110 is adjacent and inside of layer 102, and
layer 114 is adjacent and inside of layer 106. Layers 110 and 114
may be made of PE, and in particular may be made of LLDPE layers.
By way of example, layers 110 and 114 may be made of Nova Chemical
Sclair FP120C. Furthermore, and alternatively, the layers 110 and
114 can be composed of m-LLDPE (metallocene catalyzed LLDPE such as
ExxonMobil's Exceed resins or Dow Chemical's Elite resins), m-PE
(metallocene catalyzed PE with densities below 0.915 cc/g such as
ExxonMobil's Exact resins or Dow Chemical's Affinity resins), EVAs
(Ethylene Vinyl Acetate copolymers like DuPont's Elvax resins),
ionomers, LDPE, HDPE or PP or combinations of the aforementioned
polymers.
[0051] Layers 118 and 122 are the tenth and ninth layers,
respectively. Layer 118 is adjacent and inside of layer 110, and
layer 122 is adjacent and inside of layer 114. Layers 118 and 122
are ultra low density polyethylene ("ULDPE") layers. In particular,
and by way of example, layers 118 and 122 may be made of Dow
Chemical Attane 4201. Alternatively, layers 118 and 122 may made of
an EVA copolymer such as Dupont Elvax 3165 or a metallocene PE such
as Exxon Mobil Exact 3132.
[0052] The multilayer film 50 may be made by any suitable method
for producing multi-layer polyethylene films, including blown or
cast extrusions or co-extrusions or laminating processes known in
the art. The film 50 may be used to make the bag 126 shown in FIG.
3 the same way film 10 is. In operation, the bag 126 made of the
film 50 forms a barrier to help reduce oxidation and OTR into the
bag 126. The film 50 having the 18-layer structure and properties
described above creates an improved high barrier to OTR and thus
helps limit the amount of oxygen that can ingress into the bag 126
through the film 50. In addition, the oxygen scavenger that may be
used in layers 62 and 66 of the film 50 absorbs oxygen that is
located in the headspace of the bag 126 after the packaging process
and oxygen that may escape from the wine. The oxygen scavengers
also absorb oxygen that may pass through the barrier created by the
film 50 of the bag 126 or that passes into the bag 126 through the
tap 134. However, because the oxygen scavengers are located in the
layers 62 and 66, the oxygen scavengers do not come into contact
with the wine contents of the bag 126 and, therefore, does not
affect the taste of the wine
[0053] The film 10 may have a thickness of from about 35 to about
150 microns, and the film 50 may have a thickness of from about 35
to about 150 microns. Alternatively, each of the films 10 and 50
may be incorporated into a multi-ply bag structure, where it
functions as the sealant layer.
[0054] Additionally, in other embodiments, the film used to make
the bag 126 may have seven layers. A first example of such a seven
layer film may have a first, or sealant layer, made of polyethylene
(such as any of the examples of polyethylene referenced above). The
film may include a second layer made of polyethylene (such as any
of the examples of polyethylene referenced above) and an oxygen
scavenger, wherein the concentration of the oxygen scavenger in the
second layer is .gtoreq.6.0%. The film may include a third layer
made of an adhesive resin or tie layer (such as any of the adhesive
resin or tie layers referenced above), a fourth layer made of EVOH
(such as any the examples of EVOHs referenced above), a fifth layer
made of an adhesive resin or tie layer (such as any of the adhesive
resin or tie layers referenced above), a sixth layer made of
polyethylene (such as any of the examples of polyethylene
referenced above), and a seventh, or outer layer, made of
polyethylene (such as any of the examples of polyethylene
referenced above).
[0055] A second example of a seven layer film may have a first, or
sealant layer, made of polyethylene, and, in particular an m-PE
(such as any of the examples of polyethylene or m-PE referenced
above). The second example of a seven layer film may also include a
second layer made of polyethylene (such as any of the examples of
polyethylene referenced above) and an oxygen scavenger wherein the
concentration of the oxygen scavenger in the second layer is at
least twice that of the oxygen scavenger in the second layer of the
first example of a seven layer film. That is, the concentration of
the oxygen scavenger in the second layer may be .gtoreq.12.0%. The
second example of a seven layer film may further include a third
layer made of an adhesive resin or tie layer (such as any of the
adhesive resin or tie layers referenced above), a fourth layer made
of EVOH (such as any the examples of EVOHs referenced above), a
fifth layer made of an adhesive resin or tie layer (such as any of
the adhesive resin or tie layers referenced above), a sixth layer
made of polyethylene (such as any of the examples of polyethylene
referenced above), and a seventh, or outer layer, made of
polyethylene (such as any of the examples of polyethylene
referenced above).
[0056] The pouch or bag 126 may be manufactured in accordance with
known packaging techniques. It may be made using vertical or
horizontal form, fill and seal processes which are referred to by
the acronyms VFFS and HFFS, respectively. The bag 126 may be
pre-made and then filled through a fitment. The bag 126 may be
radiation sterilized in a batch process or via chemical means such
as ethylene oxide sterilization by the bag manufacturer. The
packaging conditions may include those for aseptic packaging.
[0057] The table below shows test results of film samples made in
accordance with the embodiments described above. The films were
tested for OTR at various relative humidity ("RH") percentages and
for cracking, or pinholes, from machine direction ("MD") and
circumferential ("CD") testing, which is also described in the art
as TD or transverse direction testing. Film Sample 1 is a
conventional EVOH-based film. Film Sample 2 is an 18 layer film
like film 50 above wherein the EVOH copolymer layers 86 and 90 are
sandwiched between layers of nylon (layers 78 and 94 and layers 82
and 98, respectively) and have a 29 mole percent ethylene content.
Film Sample 3 is a 9 layer film like film 10 above wherein the
internal layer 26 includes an oxygen scavenger and the central
layer 46 has a 27 mole percent ethylene content. Film Sample 4 is
an 18 layer film like film 50 above wherein the EVOH copolymer
layers 86 and 90 are sandwiched between layers of nylon (layers 78
and 94 and layers 82 and 98, respectively) and have a 27 mole
percent ethylene content. Film Sample 5 is an 18 layer film like
film 50 above wherein the EVOH copolymer layers 86 and 91) have a
29 mole percent ethylene content
TABLE-US-00001 Units for OTR: cc/100 in.sup.2/ 24 Hrs Flex Cracking
OTR OTR OTR 10,000 Cycles Film EVOH at 0% at 50% at 85% Film Total
Sample [mol %] RH RH RH Direction Pinholes 1 Standard 0.018 MD 18
CD 8 2 29% 0.003 0.012 0.29 MD 6 CD 11 3 27% + 0.006 MD 27 O.sub.2S
CD 33 4 27% 0.002 0.008 0.28 MD 4 CD 4 5 29% 0.002 0.011 0.3 MD 0
CD 2
[0058] As the table shows, Film Samples 2-5 provide a significantly
higher barrier to OTR than the standard Film Sample 1 used with
wine bag packaging. Moreover, Film Samples 2, 4, and 5 had better
results in the flex cracking testing than the standard Film Sample
1. Therefore, wine bags or pouches made of the Film Samples 2-5
provide better protection against oxidation of wine while at the
same time providing sturdy packaging that will not easily tear or
puncture. Moreover, bags fabricated from the film samples made in
accordance with embodiments of the present invention can be used
with the tap disclosed in U.S. Pat. App. Ser. No. 62/002,377 and
PCT/US2015/31926. That tap has an OTR of 0.03 cc/package/day.
Therefore, combining the tap with a bag made from a film of the
present invention results in a packaging system that is effective
in limiting the transfer of oxygen into the packaging.
[0059] More detailed test results for each of Film Samples 2-5 are
reproduced below. Test results for Film Samples 6-7 are also
reproduced below. Film Sample 6 is a seven layer film like the
first example of a seven layer film discussed above. Film Sample 7
is a seven layer film like second example of a seven layer film
discussed above. The test results include properties like film
thickness, yield, dart impact, tensile strength (machine direction
and transverse direction), elongation, tear strength, coefficients
of friction, puncture force, haze, OTR, and seal strength. The test
results also include the ASTM standards for the tests.
Film Sample 2: Nylon-EVOH--High Strength, Ultra High Barrier
Nylon/EVOH Coextrusion
TABLE-US-00002 [0060] Typical Film Properties ASTM Units Values
Thickness mils 3.5 Yield in.sup.2/lb 8100 Dart Impact D-1709 grams
1200 Tensile Strength MD D-882A psi 5300 TD psi 5700 Elongation MD
D-882A % 375 TD % 575 Elmendorf Tear MD D-1922 grams >3200 TD
grams >3200 Coefficient of Friction Inside to Inside D-1894 0.20
Outside to Outside 0.20 Puncture WFI lb-F 8 Method Haze D-1003 % 13
Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 0% R.H. D-3985 cc/100
in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.003 Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 50% R.H.
D-3985 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.012 Seal Strength (320.degree. F.,
1 sec dwell, 40 psi) F-88 lb-F/in 9
[0061] Structure: [0062] PE/PA/EVOH/PA/PE//PE/PA/EVOH/PA/PE [0063]
29 mol % EVOH
[0064] Flex Cracking Results: [0065] 10,000 Cycle Test: Passing
Result is <50 Pinholes per Test [0066] Pinholes Machine
Direction: 6 [0067] Pinholes Cross Direction: 11 Film Sample 3:
Nylon-EVOH--High Strength, Ultra High Barrier Nylon/EVOH
Coextrusion with a Built-in Oxygen Scavenger
TABLE-US-00003 [0067] Typical Film Properties ASTM Units Values
Thickness mils 3.5 Yield in.sup.2/lb 7500 Dart Impact D-1709 grams
150 Tensile Strength MD D-882A psi 5400 TD psi 5800 Elongation MD
D-882A % 375 TD % 600 Elmendorf Tear MD D-1922 grams 150 TD grams
300 Coefficient of Friction Inside to Inside D-1894 0.30 Outside to
Outside 0.15 Puncture WFI Lb-F 9 Method Haze D-1003 % N/A Gray
Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 0% R.H. D-3985 cc/100
in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.006 Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 50% R.H.
D-3985 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hr. N/A Seal Strength (320.degree. F., 1
sec dwell, 40 psi) F-88 Lb-F/in 15
[0068] Structure: [0069] PE/PA/EVOH/PA/PE with Oxygen Scavenger
[0070] 29 mol % EVOH
[0071] Flex Cracking Results: [0072] 10,000 Cycle Test: Passing
Result is <50 Pinholes per Test [0073] Pinholes Machine
Direction: 27 [0074] Pinholes Cross Direction: 33
Film Sample 4: Nylon-EVOH--High Strength, Ultra High Barrier
Nylon/EVOH Coextrusion
TABLE-US-00004 [0075] Typical Film Properties ASTM Units Values
Thickness mils 3.5 Yield in.sup.2/lb 8100 Dart Impact D-1709 grams
100 Tensile Strength MD D-882A psi 5400 TD psi 5800 Elongation MD
D-882A % 375 TD % 600 Elmendorf Tear MD D-1922 grams >3200 TD
grams >3200 Coefficient of Friction Inside to Inside D-1894 0.15
Outside to Outside 0.16 Puncture WFI lb-F 7 Method Haze D-1003 % 15
Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 0% R.H. D-3985 cc/100
in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.002 Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 50% R.H.
D-3985 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.008 Seal Strength (320.degree. F.,
1 sec dwell, 40 psi) F-88 lb-F/in 9
[0076] Structure: [0077] PE/PA/EVOH/PA/PE//PE/PA/EVOH/PA/PE [0078]
27 mol % EVOH
[0079] Flex Cracking Results: [0080] 10,000 Cycle Test; Passing
Result is <50 Pinholes per Test [0081] Pinholes Machine
Direction: 4 [0082] Pinholes Cross Direction: 4
Film Sample 5: EVOH Only--Ultra High Barrier EVOH Coextrusion
TABLE-US-00005 [0083] Typical Film Properties ASTM Units Values
Thickness mils 3.5 Yield in.sup.2/lb 8300 Dart Impact D-1709 grams
600 Tensile Strength MD D-882A psi 4800 TD psi 4900 Elongation MD
D-882A % 700 TD % 725 Elmendorf Tear MD D-1922 grams >3200 TD
grams 300 Coefficient of Friction Inside to Inside D-1894 0.20
Outside to Outside 0.15 Puncture WFI lb-F 6 Method Haze D-1003 % 14
Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 0% R.H. D-3985 cc/100
in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.002 Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 50% R.H.
D-3985 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.011 Seal Strength (320.degree. F.,
1 sec dwell, 40 psi) F-88 lb-F/in 10
[0084] Structure: [0085] PE/EVOH/PE//PE/EVOH/PE [0086] 29 mol %
EVOH
[0087] Flex Cracking Results: [0088] 10,000 Cycle Test; Passing
Result is <50 Pinholes per Test [0089] Pinholes Machine
Direction: 0 [0090] Pinholes Cross Direction: 2
[0091] Costing: [0092] 13.3% increase from current film Film Sample
6: EVOH Only--7 Layer EVOH Coextrusion with Oxygen Scavenger
TABLE-US-00006 [0092] Typical Film Properties ASTM Units Values
Thickness mils 3.6 Yield in.sup.2/lb 8200 Dart Impact D-1709 grams
424 Tensile Strength MD D-882A psi 4530 TD psi 4200 Elongation at
Break MD D-882A % 175 TD % 155 Elmendorf Tear MD D-1922 grams 405
TD grams 250 Coefficient of Friction Inside to Inside D-1894 0.18
Outside to Outside 0.17 Puncture D-5748 lb-in 23 Oxygen
Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 0% RH D-3985 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hr.
0.016 Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 50% RH D-3985 cc/100
in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.017 Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 85% RH
D-3985 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.162 Seal Strength (350.degree. F.,
1 sec dwell, 40 psi) F-88 Kgf/in 4.3 Gelbo Flex Crack F-392 1000
cycles no. of Flex Cracks 1 10,000 cycles no. of Flex Cracks 8
[0093] Structure:
[0094] PE/PE/tie/EVOH/tie/PE+O.sub.2S/mPE
Film Sample 7: EVOH Only--7 Layer EVOH Coextrusion with Oxygen
Scavenger
TABLE-US-00007 Typical Film Properties ASTM Units Values Thickness
mils 3.6 Yield in.sup.2/lb 8130 Dart Impact D-1709 grams 425
Tensile Strength MD D-882A psi 4225 TD psi 4065 Elongation at Break
MD D-882A % 162 TD % 163 Elmendorf Tear MD D-1922 grams 372 TD
grams 444 Coefficient of Friction Inside to Inside D-1894 0.26
Outside to Outside 0.18 Puncture D-5748 lb-in 25 Oxygen
Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 0% RH D-3985 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hr.
0.012 Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 50% RH D-3985 cc/100
in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.014 Oxygen Transmission 73.degree. F. @ 85% RH
D-3985 cc/100 in.sup.2/24 hr. 0.131 Seal Strength (350.degree. F.,
1 sec dwell, 40 psi) F-88 Kgf/in 4.2 Gelbo Flex Crack F-392 1000
cycles no. of Flex Cracks 1 10,000 cycles no. of Flex Cracks 5
[0095] Structure:
[0096] PE/PE/tie/EVOH/tie/PE+O.sub.2S/mPE [0097] 2.times.
Concentration of Oxygen Scavenger as Sample 6
[0098] The tap discussed in PCT/US/2015/31926 that can be used with
the various multilayer films disclosed herein is further described
in detail below.
[0099] With regard to FIG. 4, the main body 212 of the tap or fluid
dispenser 210 is shown with a cap 214 attached thereto. In some
embodiments, the cap 214 protects the dome member 216 (FIG. 5) and,
prior to removal of the cap 214, shows evidence of tampering. As
shown in FIG. 5, which is a cross-sectional view, the dome member
216 is coupled to a valve member 218. The valve member 218 is
slidable within the main body 212 such that when the dome member
216 is pressed, fluid can flow out of a dispensing port 220.
[0100] The tap or fluid dispenser 212 may be made of a suitable
plastic material. By way of example only, the fluid dispenser 212,
or components of the dispenser 212 such as the main body 212, cap
214, and valve member 218, may be made of polypropylene.
Furthermore, the fluid dispenser 212 or certain of its components
may be made of plastic, such as polypropylene, that includes an
oxygen scavenger component. By way of example only, the oxygen
scavenger may be an iron oxide oxygen scavenger. Alternatively, the
fluid dispenser 212 may include two layers, an inner layer and an
outer layer. The inner layer of the dispenser 212, which comes in
contact with liquid that passes through the dispenser 212 from the
bag 126 (FIG. 3), may be made of a plastic material, such as
polypropylene, that does not include an oxygen scavenger, and the
outer layer of the dispenser 212 may be made of a plastic material,
such as a polypropylene, that includes an oxygen scavenger
component. In this way, the outer layer of the dispenser 212 that
includes the oxygen scavenger does not come into contact with
liquid that passes through the dispenser 212 and thus does not
affect the taste of the liquid beverage. However, the oxygen
scavenger component in the outer layer still can absorb oxygen that
may leak from the headspace of the bag to which the dispenser 212
is connected. The oxygen scavenger may also absorb oxygen that
passes through the film 10, 50 (FIGS. 1 and 2) into the bag 126 or
that passes into the bag 126 through the tap 134. The two layers of
the dispenser 212 may be made by a co-injection molding process.
Such processes are known in the art.
[0101] In some embodiments, the main body 212 has a flange 222 and
a coupler 224. The coupler 224 is configured to attach the main
body 212 to a container (FIG. 3) in order to dispense fluid from
the container via the fluid dispenser 210. In some embodiments, the
coupler 224 has one or more ribs or beads 226 extending radially
outwardly in order to provide a seal between the outlet (e.g.,
spout) of the container and the coupler 224. As shown, the beads
226 are provided on the outside of the coupler 224 such that the
coupler 224 can be inserted into a female connection on the
container. Other configurations are also contemplated, however. For
example, the beads 226 can be disposed on the inside of the coupler
224. Further, the coupler 224 can have interior and/or exterior
threads or any other suitable attachment or sealing mechanism. The
coupler 224 can also be attached to a screw ring which can be
attached to the container (not shown). In some embodiments, the
coupler 224 includes three beads 226; however, any suitable number
can be employed, for example 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more.
Additionally, where multiple beads 226 are used, the beads 226 can
be spaced apart from one another and spaced from the flange 222 and
coupler end 228 (FIG. 5) in any suitable arrangement.
[0102] As further shown in FIG. 5, the main body 212 defines a
cavity 230 which is partially bounded by the coupler 224. Further,
in some embodiments, the main body 212 comprises a seal 232 that
extends into the cavity 230. In some embodiments, the main body 212
comprises a guide 234 through which a portion of the valve member
218 extends.
[0103] In some embodiments, the valve member 218 comprises a base
portion 236, a stem 238 extending from the base portion 236, an
inner tubular portion 240, an inner facing wall 242, and
intermediate tubular portion 244, an outer facing wall 246, and an
outer tubular portion 248. In some embodiments, the length of the
intermediate tubular portion 244 varies around the periphery of the
valve member 218. For example, in some embodiments, the
intermediate tubular portion 244 is longer at the bottom of the
valve member 218 than at the top of the valve member 218, as shown
in FIGS. 5 and 13. In some embodiments, the length of the inner
tubular portion 240 varies around the periphery of the valve member
218; for example, the length of the inner tubular portion 240 may
be longer at the bottom of the valve member 218 than at the top of
the valve member 218, as further shown in FIGS. 5 and 13. In some
embodiments, the length of the intermediate tubular portion 244 is
longer closer to the dispensing port 220 (FIG. 5) than further away
from the dispensing port 220.
[0104] As shown in FIG. 5, the outer tubular portion 248 contacts
the seal 232 of the main body 212 when the fluid dispenser 210 is
in a sealed configuration 250, wherein fluid is prevented from
flowing out of the fluid dispenser 210.
[0105] In some embodiments, a first channel 328 (FIG. 13) is formed
between at least a portion of the stem 238 and at least a portion
of the inner tubular portion 240. In some embodiments, a second
channel 330 is formed between at least a portion of the inner
tubular portion 240 and at least a portion of the intermediate
tubular portion 244; the second channel may be further bounded by
the inner facing wall 242. In some embodiments, a third channel 332
is formed between at least a portion of the intermediate tubular
portion 244 and at least a portion of the outer tubular portion
248; the third channel may be further bounded by the outer facing
wall 246, as shown for example in FIG. 13. In at least some
embodiments, the first and third channels 328, 332 open in a
direction opposing the second channel 330.
[0106] Although shown in FIGS. 5 and 13 with the valve member 218
having a third channel into which the seal 232 extends, it will be
appreciated that the relationship can be reversed such that the
main body 212 comprises a channel into which a portion of the valve
member 218 extends.
[0107] In some embodiments, the valve member 218 further comprises
a keeper 252 at the distal end portion of the stem 238. The keeper
252 interfaces with a retainer 254 of the dome member 216. The
keeper 252 couples the valve member 218 to the dome member 216 such
that the valve member 218 and dome member 216 move in tandem.
[0108] With regard to FIGS. 6 and 7, the dome member 216 is shown
therein in greater detail. In FIG. 7, the dome member 216 is shown
in cross-section. The dome member 216 has a base 256. In some
examples, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the base 256 is circular.
Other shapes and configurations are also contemplated, however; for
example, the base 256 can also be square, rectangular, hexagonal,
octagonal, or in the shape of any other suitable polygon. In some
embodiments, the cross-section of material is thicker at the base
256 of the dome member 216 than nearer the peak of the dome member
216. At least some examples of the base 256 have a seat 258, which
is configured to be received by the recess 260 (FIGS. 8 and
10).
[0109] In at least some examples, the dome member 216 comprises an
elastomeric material. The dome member 216 is elastically deformable
from a first configuration 300 (FIG. 5), wherein the fluid
dispenser 210 is in a sealed configuration 250, to a second
configuration 302 (FIG. 16), in which fluid is permitted to flow
out of the fluid dispenser 210. The dome member 216 is predisposed
to remain in the first configuration 300 unless a force is applied
to it to depress the dome member 216. Thus, the dome member 216
pulls the valve member 218 closed, via keeper 252, as long the dome
member 216 is not depressed.
[0110] Turning to FIG. 8, an example of the main body 212 is shown
in the absence of the dome member 216, valve member 218, and cap
214. As shown, the guide 234 defines an opening 262 through which
the stem 238 extends (FIG. 5). In some embodiments, the opening 262
is triangular in cross-section. Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, in
some embodiments, the stem 238 has a triangular cross-section to
correspond with the triangular cross-section of the guide 234. The
guide 234 can have any other suitable cross-sectional shape, for
example circular, square, pentagonal, notched.
[0111] In some embodiments, the main body 212 comprises one or more
stand-off members 264. As illustrated in FIG. 8, for example, a
plurality of stand-off members 264 are employed. In some
embodiments, the one or more stand-off members 264 are arranged to
locate the dome member 216 within the recess 260. In some
embodiments, the one or more stand-off members 264 (FIG. 8) abut
the seat 258 (FIG. 7) of the dome member 216. Some examples of the
main body 212 have at least three stand-off members 264. Some
examples of the main body 212 have between three and fifteen
stand-off members 264 and some embodiments have seven stand-off
members 264, though any suitable number can be employed. Further,
in at least some embodiments, the at least one stand-off member 264
is configured as a single stand-off member 264 having an annular
shape; a semi-annular shape, for example with a segment cut out of
it, can also be used.
[0112] With further regard to FIGS. 8 and 9, in some examples, the
main body 212 has a dividing wall 266, separating the cavity 230
from the chamber 268. In some embodiments, the dividing wall 266 is
oriented at a non-zero angle relative to a plane 320 (FIG. 8)
defined by the flange 222. In some examples, the main body 212
comprises an outer flow surface 306 and an inner flow surface 308,
for example as shown in FIGS. 9 and 16. In at least some examples,
the dispensing port 220 forms an opening in the outer flow surface
306.
[0113] As shown in FIG. 10, in some embodiments, the main body 212
comprises one or more finger holds 270, for example two finger
holds 270, which can be oriented in any suitable orientation. As
illustrated, the finger holds 270 are configured such that the
user's index finger is placed between one of the finger holds 270,
for example 270a, and the flange 222 and the user's middle finger
is placed between the other of the finger holds, for example 270b,
and the flange 222. In this way, the user's thumb is used to
depress the dome member 216 (FIG. 16) to dispense fluid.
[0114] In at least some examples, the main body 212 has one or more
detents 272 (FIGS. 4, 8, 10). In some embodiments, the detents 272
retain the cap 214 (FIG. 15) until the cap 214 is removed, as
discussed below. Some embodiments of the main body 212 have two
opposing detents 272, which can take on any suitable configuration.
In some examples, the detents 272 are openings extending through a
portion of the respective finger hold 270a, 270b.
[0115] Turning to FIGS. 11-13, the valve member 218 is shown in
detail; FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the valve member 218.
As illustrated, in some examples, the stem 238 has a generally
triangular cross-section, corresponding to the cross-section of the
opening 262 of the main body 212 (FIG. 10). Further, in some
examples, the keeper 252 is located at a distal end of the stem
238. Just proximal of the keeper 252 is a narrowed portion 274 of
the stem 238. The narrowed portion 274 fits into the catch 276 of
the dome member 216 (FIG. 7), thereby coupling the dome member 216
and the valve member 218 so that they move in tandem.
[0116] The valve member 218 has a sealing surface 278 (FIG. 13)
which contacts the seal 232 (FIG. 5) when the fluid dispenser 210
is in the sealed configuration 250. Due to the relatively large
area of contact between the sealing surface 278 and the seal 232,
the oxygen transmission rate into the fluid can be minimized. This
is particularly important in certain industries, for example the
wine industry.
[0117] With further regard to FIGS. 11 and 13, the valve member 218
has a face 280. In some examples, the face 280 is angled relative
to the longitudinal axis 281 of the stem 238. Further, the face 280
is configured to abut, or nearly abut, the dividing wall 266 (FIG.
5) of the main body 212. In some embodiments, the face 280 is
angled relative to the longitudinal axis 281 of the stem 238 by an
angle .alpha., which is less than 90 degrees and, in some examples,
is between 45 and 70 degrees. Angle .alpha. is measured between the
longitudinal axis 281 and the face 280 from a location on the face
280 where the intermediate tubular portion 244 is at its longest
(as measured parallel to the longitudinal axis 281 of the stem
238). In some embodiments, the face 280 is angled relative to the
valve seal plane 322 (FIG. 13) by a nonzero angle .delta.. The
valve seal plane 322 is defined by a plane extending through the
center of the sealing surface 278 along the periphery of the valve
member 218. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the valve seal plane 322
extends into and out of the page. In some embodiments, the angle
.delta. is between 20 and 45 degrees. In at least some embodiments,
the longitudinal axis 281 is orthogonal to the valve seal plane
322.
[0118] FIGS. 14 and 15 show an example of the cap 214. Some
embodiments of the fluid dispenser 210 have the cap 214 affixed
thereto until the fluid dispenser 210 is used to dispense fluid, at
which time the cap 214, or at least a portion thereof, is removed
to provide access to the dome member 216. The cap 214 is configured
to show evidence of tampering and, in at least some examples, once
it is removed from the main body 212, it cannot be easily
reattached.
[0119] The cap 214 has a tab 282, a body portion 284, and a bond
strip 286. Extending from the body portion 284, the cap 214
comprises at least one ear 288. As illustrated in FIG. 15, for
example, the cap 214 has two ears 288. The ears 288 snap-fit into
the detents 272 (FIGS. 8 and 10) of the main body 212. Further, in
some embodiments, the bond strip 286 is attached to a lip 292 (FIG.
8) of the main body 212. The bond strip 286 can be attached to the
lip 292 in any desirable way, for example with adhesive or via
ultrasonic welding. In some embodiments, the bond strip 286 has a
plurality of teeth 294 (FIG. 15) which provide contact points to
contact the lip 292. The teeth 294 are flattened during ultrasonic
welding, for example, to yield a high strength bond between the
bond strip 286 and the lip 292.
[0120] In some embodiments, the cap 214 has at least one tear strip
290. As shown in FIG. 4, for example, the cap 214 has two tear
strips 290. In some examples, the tear strip(s) 290 extend entirely
through the material of the body portion 284 along portion of
length of the tear strip(s) 290. A shown in FIG. 14, for example,
the tear strips 290 extend through the material near where the tab
282 adjoins the body portion 284. With regard to FIG. 15, as the
tear strips 290 extend inwardly into the body portion 284 from the
periphery of the cap 214, the tear strips 290 are thicker than
nearer the periphery. Stated differently, the material thickness of
the tear strips 290 increases along the length of the tear strip
290. The material thickness of the tear strips 290 is thinnest
nearer the outer periphery of the cap 214. The thickness increases
from the periphery until the tear strips 290 end at 296, where the
material thickness of the tear strip(s) 290 is the same as the
material thickness of the adjacent portion of the cap 214.
Therefore, along a portion of the length of the tear strips 290,
the tear strips 290 are reductions in the material thickness of the
body portion 284.
[0121] Removal of the cap 214, for example by a user wishing to
dispense fluid from the fluid dispenser 210, is carried out by
pulling on the tab 282. As the tab 282 is pulled, the tear strips
290 begin to tear along their length and cracks propagate until the
tear strips 290 end at 296. At this point, the ears 288 snap out of
the detents 272 and the dome member 216 is partially exposed to the
user. To remove the cap 214 entirely, such that the fluid dispenser
210 can be utilized, the user continues to pull on the tab 282, at
which point the cap 214 fractures at the attachment columns 298
(FIG. 15). In this way, the bond strip 286 remains attached to the
main body 212, and the body portion 284 and tab 282 of the cap 214
are removed from the bond strip 286 and are discarded.
[0122] With the cap 214 removed, the user can dispense fluid by
depressing the dome member 216, as shown in FIG. 16, wherein the
fluid dispenser 210 is in a flow configuration 304. In some
examples, the dome member 216 elastically deforms to take on the
second configuration 302 when it is depressed. The dome member 216
consequently moves the valve member 218 inwardly and sealing
contact between the seal 232 and the sealing surface 278 of the
valve member 218 is broken. As such, fluid is permitted to flow
between the valve member 218 and the dividing wall 266 and out
through the dispensing port 220. The fluid is further permitted to
flow interiorly within the outer flow surface 306 and exteriorly to
the inner flow surface 308 before exiting the fluid dispenser 210
via the dispensing port 220. A flow passage 324 (FIG. 16) extends
from the cavity 230 and is at least partially bounded by the valve
member 218 and main body 212 (e.g., outer flow surface 306, inner
flow surface 308). In at least some embodiments, the flow passage
324 is a slanted passage, relative to the longitudinal axis 281
(FIG. 13), and at least a portion of the flow passage 324 extends
360 degrees around the stem 238.
[0123] Moreover, it will be appreciated that fluid is also
permitted to flow past the guide 234, between the stem 238 and the
guide 234, and into the chamber 268. Nonetheless, because the dome
member 216 is sealed against the main body along recess 260, fluid
is not permitted to exit the fluid dispenser 210 by any way other
than through the dispensing port 220.
[0124] In order for the fluid to flow out of the fluid dispenser
210, it has to flow around the valve member 218. Due to the shape
of the valve member 218, along with the guide 234 extending into
the cavity 230, fluid must navigate a circuitous path. And, upon
release of the dome member 216, the dome member 216 returns to its
first configuration 300 (FIG. 5), the sealing surface 278 again
comes into contact with the seal 232, and flow of fluid out of the
dispensing port 220 ceases. Further, upon release of the dome
member 216 and closure of the valve member 218, the fluid dispenser
210 can eliminate dripping.
[0125] In some examples, flow of fluid out of the dispensing port
220 is reduced, however, upon release of the dome member 216 but
prior to the sealing surface 278 sealing against seal 232. This is
due in-part to the guide 234 extending a relatively long distance
into the cavity 230. Further, because the inner tubular portion 240
overlaps a greater portion of the guide 234 at the bottom of the
valve member 218 than at the top of the valve member 218, the flow
of fluid around the valve member 218 is slowed prior to contact
between the sealing surface 278 and the seal 232. And, in some
embodiments, the face 280 is disposed at a non-zero angle, .theta.,
relative to a sealing plane 310 (FIGS. 9, 17) such that fluid flow
is reduced prior to contact between the sealing surface 278 and the
seal 232. The sealing plane 310 is defined by a plane extending
through the center of the contact surface 326 of the seal 232 such
that at each location around the periphery of the seal 232, the
center of the contact surface 326 lies on the sealing plane 310.
The contact surface 326 is the surface of the seal 232 that mates
with the sealing surface 278 when the fluid dispenser 210 is in the
sealed configuration 250 (FIG. 17). In some embodiments, the
non-zero angle .theta. is between 20 and 45 degrees. When the fluid
dispenser 210 is in the sealed configuration 250, the sealing plane
310 and the valve seal plane 322 are coincident.
[0126] In at least some examples, when the fluid dispenser 210 is
in the sealed configuration 250, there is no head pressure from the
fluid within the container pushing outwardly on the dome member 216
because the sealing surface 278 and seal 232 are disposed between
the dome member 216 and the fluid in the container. Additionally,
head pressure from the fluid tends to aid in closing the fluid
dispenser 210 by pushing the valve member 218 into the seal 232 of
the main body 212.
[0127] With regard to FIG. 17, a detailed cross-sectional view of a
portion of the valve member 218 is shown with a portion of the main
body 212. As shown, the fluid dispenser 210 is in the sealed
configuration 250.
[0128] In some examples, the outer tubular portion 248 has a lobe
312 (FIGS. 13 and 14) that contacts the seal 232. As the valve
member 218 is closed, the lobe 312 moves toward the seal 232,
ultimately sliding along incline 314 of the seal 232. Subsequently,
the lobe 312 moves past the incline 314 until the valve member 218
comes to rest against the main body 212 such that the sealing
surface 278 contacts the contact surface 326.
[0129] Additionally, in some examples, the outer tubular portion
248 pushes the seal 232 inwardly toward the intermediate tubular
portion 244. In some embodiments, the intermediate tubular portion
244 comprises a wedge 316. As the lobe 312 pushes the seal inwardly
toward the intermediate tubular portion 244, the wedge 316 comes
into contact with the distal most end of the seal 232. The wedge
316 contacts on opposite side of the seal 232 than the lobe 312.
This arrangement prevents creep and deformation of the seal 232
over time in order to ensure proper sealing of the fluid dispenser
210, even after a period of shelf time or use. The seal 232 is
prevented from undergoing too much deformation because it is
situated between the wedge 316 and lobe 312. Moreover, the lobe 312
and shape of the seal 232 and valve member s18 provide a relatively
large area of contact between the seal 232 and valve member 218,
thereby reducing the oxygen transmission rate of the fluid
dispenser 210.
[0130] In some examples, when the fluid dispenser 210 is in the
sealed configuration 250, as shown in FIG. 17, a capillary gap 318
is disposed between the valve member 218 and the guide 234. The
presence of the capillary gap 318 eliminates post-closure
dripping.
[0131] In some embodiments, the main body 212 is made of HDPE (high
density polyethylene), although other materials are also suitable.
Further, in some embodiments, the valve member 218 is made of HDPE,
though other materials are also suitable. In some embodiments, the
cap 214 is made of HDPE, though other materials are also suitable.
The main body 212, valve member 218, and cap 214 can all be made
from the same HDPE or different HDPEs, for example having different
hardnesses.
[0132] In some examples, the dome member 216 is made of a TPE
(thermoplastic elastomer), although other materials can also be
used.
[0133] Where plastics are used, the various components (e.g., dome
member 216, main body 212, valve member 218, cap 214) can be
injection molded and assembled. At least some examples of the fluid
dispenser 210 are assembled by inserting the valve member 218 into
the main body 212 such that stem 238 extends through the guide 234
(FIG. 5). The valve member 218 can be inserted into the main body
212 until it bottoms against the main body 212. Then, the dome
member 216 is added to the main body 212 by inserting the keeper
252 (FIG. 13) into the retainer 254 (FIG. 7). Also, the dome member
216 is seated against the recess 260 (FIG. 10). Subsequently, the
cap 214 is added by placing the ears 288 (FIG. 14) within the
detents 272 (FIG. 8); the bond strip 286 (FIG. 15) is pressed
against the lip 292 (FIG. 8) and the two are ultrasonically welded
together.
[0134] In at least some examples, even when the dome member 216 is
in the first configuration 300 (FIG. 5), it continues to exert an
outward (closing) force against the valve member 218. This helps to
ensure sealing between the valve member 218 and the main body 212
as well as between the dome member 216 and the main body 212.
[0135] As will be appreciated, the coupler 224 can have any desired
length or configuration. The coupler 224 can be configured to
attach to a bag-in-box container, bag container, box container, or
any other container with standardized or non-standardized
shape.
[0136] Further, some embodiments of the fluid dispenser 210 can
utilize dome members 216 formed of a clear material, for example to
allow the color of the fluid to be seen. In some examples, the dome
member 216 is made from a colored material which can also be used
to signify the type or flavor of fluid.
[0137] In at least some examples of the fluid dispenser 210, at
least a portion of the valve member 218 (e.g., intermediate tubular
portion 244) extends over at least a portion of the dispensing port
220 prior to sealing of the valve member 220 against the seal 232.
In this way, the flow of fluid can be throttled and/or reduced
prior to closure of fluid dispenser 210.
[0138] FIGS. 18-20 show another example of a fluid dispenser 210.
As shown, in some embodiments, the fluid dispenser 210 has a spout
334. In some embodiments, fluid is dispensed from the fluid
dispenser 210 via the spout 334. In some embodiments, the spout 334
extends downwardly from the main body 212. Further, the spout 334
can extend away from the flange 222, permitting the user to
position a rim of drinking vessel (e.g., glass or cup) between the
flange 222 and the spout 334, thereby reducing the likelihood of
spillage.
[0139] As further shown in FIGS. 18-20, in some embodiments, the
body 212 comprises a barrel 336. In some embodiments, the barrel
336 extends from the flange 222 and provides a greater distance
between flange 222 and the dispensing port 220, for example when
compared to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5.
[0140] While endeavoring in the foregoing specification to draw
attention to those features of the invention believed to be of
particular importance it should be understood that the Applicant
claims protection in respect of any patentable feature or
combination of features hereinbefore referred to and/or shown in
the drawings whether or not particular emphasis has been placed
thereon. In addition, while particular elements, embodiments and
applications of the present invention have been shown and
described, it will be understood that the invention is not limited
thereto since modifications can be made by those skilled in the art
without departing from the scope of the present disclosure,
particularly in light of the foregoing teachings.
* * * * *