EXPANDER DEVICE FOR KEEPING AN OPENING IN FOOD PACKAGING OPEN

Abstract

The invention relates to an expander device (100) for keeping a pouch opening (410) of a pouch (400) open. The expander device (100) comprises a ring member (120), by which a central opening (110) is surrounded. The ring member (120) comprises at least one flap (150) that is convertible between an expanded position and a collapsed position. In the expanded position, the flap (150) extends from the ring member (120) on one side (111) of the central opening (110) to keep clear of the central opening (110) for allowing to bring the ring member (120) into alignment with a circumferential rim section (411) of the pouch opening (410). In the collapsed position, the flap (150) extends from the ring member (120) into or through the central opening (110) so that a fitment section (151) of the flap (150) faces laterally outside with respect to the central opening (110) to be fitted against an inner side surface (412) of the rim section (411) to keep the pouch opening (410) open. The invention further relates to a package system (200) comprising the expander device (100) and a pouch (400) carrying a food product, and to a method for use of said package system (200).

Claims

1. An expander device for keeping a pouch opening of a pouch open, the expander device comprising a ring member by which a central opening is at least partially surrounded, wherein the ring member comprises at least one flap being convertible between an expanded position, in which the flap extends from the ring member on one side of the central opening to keep clear of the central opening for allowing to bring the ring member into alignment with a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening, and a collapsed position, in which the flap extends from the ring member at least partially into or through the central opening so that a fitment section of the flap faces laterally outside with respect to the central opening so as to be fitted against an inner side surface of the rim section to keep the pouch opening open.

2. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the flap is provided on an upper edge section of the ring member, and wherein the flap is integrally formed with the ring member.

3. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the flap has a length in an extension direction being equal to or larger than a height or thickness of the ring member or a height of the central opening.

4. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the ring member comprises a plurality of flaps.

5. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the flaps comprises a levelling section provided at a distal edge of the flap with respect to the ring member, wherein, in the collapsed state, the levelling section bulges towards the central opening or is laterally offset from the fitment section towards the central opening.

6. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the ring member comprises a circumferential attachment section at least partially surrounding the central opening for fitting the expander device at the rim section of the pouch opening or at a container opening of a storage container for receiving the pouch, wherein the attachment section faces laterally outside and inside with respect to the central opening.

7. The expander device according to claim 6, wherein an outer circumferential surface of the ring member forms the attachment section, and an inner circumferential surface of the ring member forms the attachment section.

8. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the expander device has a shape selected from the group consisting of round, circular, oval, square, and rectangular.

9. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the ring member comprises a circumferential device rim section protruding laterally away from and towards the central opening.

10. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the ring member comprises a circumferential first rim section, wherein the flap(s) extend from the first rim section, and an integral second rim section being provided opposite to the first rim section (with respect to the central opening for fitting the expander device at the rim section of the pouch opening or at a container opening of a storage container for receiving the pouch.

11. The expander device according to claim 1, further comprising a lid for closing the central opening at least in the collapsed position, the lid is separately provided, and the lid is integrally formed with the expander device or the ring member.

12. A package system, comprising a pouch carrying a food product, and an expander device for keeping a pouch opening of a pouch open, the expander device comprising a ring member by which a central opening is at least partially surrounded, wherein the ring member comprises at least one flap being convertible between an expanded position, in which the flap extends from the ring member on one side of the central opening to keep clear of the central opening for allowing to bring the ring member into alignment with a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening, and a collapsed position, in which the flap extends from the ring member at least partially into or through the central opening so that a fitment section of the flap faces laterally outside with respect to the central opening so as to be fitted against an inner side surface of the rim section to keep the pouch opening open, wherein the flap(s) are configured to be inserted into a pouch opening of the pouch when being converted from the expanded position to the collapsed position to keep the pouch opening open by fitment of the fitment section (against an inner side surface of a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening.

13. The package system according to claim 12, further comprising a storage container having a container opening for receiving the pouch and the expander device, the expander device is configured to press the rim section towards or against a circumferential inner wall section (of the storage container.

14-15. (canceled)

Description

4. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0075] Further features, advantages and objects of the invention will become apparent for the skilled person when reading the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention and when taking in conjunction with the figures of the enclosed drawings. In case numerals have been omitted from a figure, for example for reasons of clarity, the corresponding features may still be present in the figure.

[0076] FIG. 1 shows different views of an embodiment of an expander device according to the invention; namely (A) a perspective top view, (B) a first side (long side) view, (C) a second side (short side) view, (D) a perspective bottom view, and (E) a top view.

[0077] FIG. 2 shows a perspective top view of the expander device of FIG. 1.

[0078] FIG. 3 shows a perspective top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the expanded position.

[0079] FIG. 4 shows a perspective top view of the expander device of FIG. 3 in the collapsed position.

[0080] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a package system of the invention and steps of an embodiment of a method for use of the package system according to the invention.

[0081] FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a package system of the invention.

[0082] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of steps of a further embodiment of a method for use of a package system according to the invention with the package system of FIG. 6.

[0083] FIG. 8 shows a perspective top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention.

[0084] FIG. 9 shows a perspective bottom view of the expander device of FIG. 8.

[0085] FIG. 10 shows a perspective top view of the expander device of FIG. 8 with a dosing device.

[0086] FIG. 11 shows the arrangement of FIG. 10 in a bottom perspective view.

[0087] FIG. 12 shows a perspective top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the expanded position.

[0088] FIG. 13 shows a perspective top view of the expander device of FIG. 12 in the collapsed position.

[0089] FIG. 14 shows a perspective top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the collapsed position and with a lid being open.

[0090] FIG. 15 shows a perspective top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the collapsed position.

[0091] FIG. 16 shows a perspective bottom view of the expander device of FIG. 15 in the collapsed position.

[0092] FIG. 17 shows a bottom view of the expander device of FIG. 15 in the collapsed position.

[0093] FIG. 18 shows a top view of the expander device of FIG. 15 in the collapsed position.

[0094] FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of a part of the expander device of FIG. 15 in the collapsed position and with the lid being closed.

[0095] FIG. 20 shows a perspective top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the collapsed position.

[0096] FIG. 21 shows a top view of the expander device of FIG. 20 in the collapsed position.

[0097] FIG. 22 shows a perspective bottom view of the expander device of FIG. 20 in the collapsed position.

[0098] FIG. 23 shows a bottom view of the expander device of FIG. 20 in the collapsed position.

[0099] FIG. 24 shows a top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the collapsed position and with a lid being open.

[0100] FIG. 25 shows a top view of the expander device of FIG. 24 with the lid being closed.

[0101] FIG. 26 shows a perspective top/front view of a further embodiment of an expander device with a lid being closed and being provided on a container.

[0102] FIG. 27 shows a perspective top/rear view of the expander device of FIG. 26.

[0103] FIG. 28 shows a perspective top/rear view of the expander device of FIG. 24 being provided on a container.

5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0104] The Figures show different views and aspects of different embodiments of the invention. A first aspect of the present invention relates to an expander device 100 for keeping a pouch opening 410 of a pouch 400 open. FIGS. 1 to 28 show exemplarily different embodiments and aspects of the expander device 100. Preferably, the expander device 100 may be provided as a single piece. Preferably, the expander device 100 may be made by (two component) injection molding.

[0105] An example for the pouch 400 is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7. The pouch 400 may carry food products, for example. Preferably, it may carry granular or powdery food products, such as milk powder or coffee beans. However, it is also conceivable that the pouch 400 may carry different food or non-food products. The pouch 400 may be provided, for example, as stand-up packaging, sachet, or bag, such as a gusseted bag. Preferably, the pouch 400 may be made of a paper, cardboard, metallic, metallized and/or plastic material. Preferably, the pouch 400 may be made of a material that comprises at least sufficient rigidity to stand upright on its own. Preferably, the pouch 400 may be made of a stretchable material. The pouch 400 may be circumferentially sealed by heat sealing and/or may comprise tearing lines for opening the pouch 400 along one of its edges to provide an opening therein. Preferably, the pouch 400 may comprise a volume between 200 ml and 10 litres. More preferred, the pouch 400 may comprise a volume between 200 ml and 3.5 litres. However, this is not a complete enumeration and other configurations of the pouch 400 are conceivable.

[0106] The pouch 400 may comprise an opening, such as the pouch opening 410, preferably on an upper end or an upper side portion of the pouch 400. Preferably, the pouch opening 410 may comprise a circumferential rim section 411. The circumferential rim section 411 may define the pouch opening 410. The pouch opening 410 may be formed by an inner side surface 412. The inner side surface 412 may comprise the rim section 411. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7. The pouch opening 410 may have any shape or form. Preferably, the pouch opening 410 may be round or rectangular.

[0107] The expander device 100 may have a preferred operational orientation with respect to the pouch. Therein, for example, the expander device 100 may be preferably configured such that in operation, it is arrangeable on the pouch 400 such that one of its two opposite ends faces upwards (away) from the pouch opening 410 (thus, being an upper end thereof) while the respective other end faces to the pouch opening 410 (thus, being a lower end thereof). FIGS. 2 to 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12 to 16, 19, 20, 22 and 26 to 28 show such an operational orientation exemplarily. However, these Figures are only examples and other orientations in operation are conceivable.

[0108] The expander device 100 comprises a ring member 120, by which a central opening 110 is at least partially surrounded. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 28.

[0109] Preferably, the central opening 110 may completely penetrate the ring member 120. For example, the central opening 110 may form a passage between two opposite ends (e.g. the upper end and the lower end) or sides of the expander device 100 and/or the ring member 120. Preferably, the central opening 110 may extend from one side 11 of the central opening 110 to its other side 112. For example, the central opening 110 may be a through-hole. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 24. Preferably, the central opening 110 may be constant or varying in its lateral extension(s) along the two opposite ends of the expander device 100 and/or the ring member 120. For example, the central opening 110 may have a constant diameter. Preferably, the central opening 110 may have dimensions, such as width or diameter, that are sufficient for accessing the inside of the pouch 400 with a dosing device, such as a spoon or cup. For example, the central opening 110 may have a diameter within the range of 1 cm to 30 cm. Preferably, the central opening 110 may be large enough for placing the expander device 100 over the pouch 400.

[0110] The central opening 110 may have any shape and form. In FIGS. 1 to 5 and 20 to 28 the layout of the central opening 110 is exemplarily illustrated as being rectangular with rounded corners. In FIGS. 6 to 19, the central opening 110 is exemplarily shown with a circular outline. However, these are only examples and the central opening 110 may be provided with a different layout or form. For example, the central opening 110 may be oval. Preferably, the central opening 110 may be centred with respect to the ring member 120. The expander device 100 may be symmetrical, preferably mirror symmetrical, when seen along a direction normal to the central opening 110.

[0111] In FIGS. 1 to 28, the ring member 120 is exemplarily illustrated with a closed profile, by which the central opening 110 is completely surrounded. However, it is also conceivable that the ring member 120 may be provided with an open profile so that the central opening 110 is only partially surrounded by the ring member 120. Generally, the ring member 120 (and/or the expander device 100) may have a round, circular or oval shape, such as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 6 to 19. Alternatively, the ring member 120 (and/or the expander device 100) may have a square, rectangular or polygonal shape, such as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5 and 20 to 28. The shape of the ring member 120 may be the same or different from the shape of the central opening 110. Preferably, the ring member 120 may extend substantially within a plane such as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 28. Preferably, the ring member 120 may be placeable from above onto the pouch 400 or into the pouch opening 410. Preferably, the ring member 120 may have a lateral extension (i.e. length and/or width, for example) in one extension direction (within the plane) of 3 cm to 30 cm. Preferably, the expander device 100 and/or the ring member 120 may be designed such that it can be handled by an operator with one or two hands. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7. For example, a maximum diameter or width of the expander device 100 may be delimited by an average human hand span width.

[0112] Preferably, the expander device 100 or the ring member 120 may be made of metal, plastic material or bioplastics. For example, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polyphenylene ether (PPE) or resin may be used. Preferably, sustainable, recyclable and/or biodegradable materials may be used. For example, it is conceivable that the ring member 120 may be made from fibre-based materials, such as pulp. Preferably, a combination of PE and thermoplastic, or of PE and silicon, or of plastic and metal, or of plastic (such as PE) and fiber-based (molded) materials, or any other combination of the aforementioned materials may be used.

[0113] Preferably, the ring member 120 may comprise a circumferential attachment section 160 for fitting the expander device 100 at the rim section 411 of the pouch opening 410. Alternatively or additionally, as illustrated in FIGS. 5, 7, 19 and 26 to 28, the circumferential attachment section 160 may be provided for fitting the expander device 100 at a container opening 510 of a storage container 500, in which preferably the pouch 400 may be received.

[0114] The storage container 500 is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7, 19 and 26 to 28. The storage container 500 may have any shape or form. The storage container 500 may be suitable for receiving the pouch 400 and the expander device 100. Preferably, the storage container 500 may have a volume between 200 ml and 10 l. The storage container 500 may be made of a glass, metal, plastic and/or paper material. Preferably, the storage container 500 may have an opening, such as the container opening 510, on one (an upper) end. The container opening 510 may comprise a container rim section 511. Preferably, the container opening 510 may be defined (on the inside) by the container rim section 511. A circumferential inner wall of the storage container 500 may define the inside of the storage container 500. A circumferential inner wall section 512 may be adjacent to the container opening 510. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 19.

[0115] The attachment section 160 may at least partially surround the central opening 110 and may face laterally outside and/or inside with respect to the central opening 110. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 28. For example, an outer circumferential surface 161 of the ring member 120 may form the attachment section 160. As exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4 and 8 to 13, the outer circumferential surface 161 faces laterally outside with respect to the central opening 110. Alternatively or additionally, the attachment section 160 may be formed by an inner circumferential surface 162 of the ring member 120, which, as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, 8 to 13 and 19, faces laterally inside with respect to the central opening 110. Preferably, the outer circumferential surface 161 and/or the inner circumferential surface 162 may taper with increased distance from the one side 111. Alternatively or additionally, the outer circumferential surface 161 and/or the inner circumferential surface 162 may taper with decreased distance from the one side 111. The two side views in (middle of) FIG. 1 (i.e. FIGS. 1B and 1C) highlight such configurations exemplarily. The attachment section 160 may (at least partially) comprise an inhibiting feature, like a rib or dot structure, a coating, a laminate or a sticker. The inhibiting feature may be made of an anti-skid material, like rubber.

[0116] As illustrated in FIG. 19, the attachment section 160 may comprise a connection section 163 protruding laterally away from and/oras illustratedtowards the central opening 110. The attachment section 160 may thus operate as a snap-on feature to allow for an effective form-fit connection of the expander device 100 with the container 500.

[0117] The ring member 120 may comprise a circumferential device rim section 180 for supporting the expander device 100 on the rim section 411 of the pouch opening 410. Alternatively or additionally, as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 19, the device rim section 180 may provide support for the expander device 100 on the container rim section 511 of the container opening 510 of the storage container 500 for receiving the pouch 400 with the expander device 100. Therein, the device rim section 180 may function, for example, as a collar, by which relative movement of the expander device 100 with respect to the storage container 500 and/or the pouch 400 may be restricted in at least one, preferably at least two directions. The device rim section 180 may protrude laterally away from (as illustrated) and/or towards the central opening 110. The device rim section 180 may be provided on the ring member 120 as a flange or lip. FIGS. 1, 2, 6 to 11, 12 and 13, for instance, illustrate the device rim section 180 protruding laterally towards the central opening 110 (inwards). FIGS. 10, 11 and 19, for instance, also illustrate the device rim section 180 protruding laterally away from the central opening 110 (outwards). In comparison, the expander device 100 illustrated in FIGS. 3 to 5 does not comprise the device rim section 180. The device rim section 180 may extend at least partially around the circumference of the ring member 120. Preferably, the device rim section 180 may be parallel to the plane (i.e. including an identical plane), in which the ring member 120 extends.

[0118] As exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 12 to 19, the expander device 100 may comprise a lid 140 for closing the central opening 110. The lid 140 may be provided separately or, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 19 and 24 to 28, it may be integrally formed with the expander device 100 or the ring member 120. Preferably, the central opening 110 may be closed by the lid on the one side 11. For example, the lid 140 may be connected to the expander device 100 via a hinge 141, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 18, 24, 25, 27 and 28. The hinge 141 may be a separate element or, as illustrated, preferably integral. The hinge 141 may be of any type, like a normal hinge (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 27) or a flip top hinge (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 28). As desired, the expander device 100 may comprise one or a plurality of hinges 141. As also illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 15, 18 and 24, the lid 140 may comprise an inner lid surface 142 facing towards and covering the central opening 110 when the lid 140 is closed. The inner lid surface 142 may be provided with an information feature 145, e.g. showing instructions for use. The information feature 145 can be a painting, a sticker or even be integral with the lid, e.g. an engraving. In the closed condition, an outer surface 144 of the lid 140 faces outwards and away from the central opening 110. The lid 140 may further comprise a connection section 143 here extending circumferentially about the inner lid surface 142 to allow the lid 140 being releasably fixed to the ring member 120 thus securely covering the central opening 110 in the closed condition. Therefore, the lid 140 may snap with its connection section or ring 143 onto the ring member 120. As illustrated in FIGS. 14, 15 and 24, the connection section 143 may further comprise a locking section 146here being part of an opening flap 147which can be releasably fixed withhere snapped ontoa corresponding connection section 122 of the ring member 120. Similar connection sections 122 are also shown in FIG. 20 for an embodiment with a separately provided lid.

[0119] Moreover, the expander device 100 (and/or the ring member 120) may comprise gripping sections for receiving fingers of a user for gripping. These are not illustrated in the Figures. The gripping sections may preferably be provided by dents in the ring member 120 that project towards or away from the central opening 110.

[0120] The ring member 120 comprises at least one flap 150. Preferably, the ring member 120 may comprise a plurality of flaps 150, which may be distributed evenly about an outside edge of the ring member 120, such as the circumference of the ring member 120. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures, where the expander device 100 comprises three (FIG. 14 to 19) or four (FIGS. 1 to 13 and 20 to 24) flaps 150. However, this is only an example and not to be understood as delimiting because any number of the flaps 150 can be provided.

[0121] As illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 19 and 24, in case of the expander device 100 having a plurality of flaps 150 as well as a hinged lid 140, the flaps 150 are preferably symmetrically arranged with respect to the hinge 141 to allow easy handling likewise for right-hander and left-hander consumers.

[0122] For simplicity, it is only referred to the flap 150 in the following. However, the corresponding description is equally applicable for the plurality of flaps 150.

[0123] Preferably, the flap 150 may be made of a material that may be the same as the ring member 120 and/or as the inhibiting feature or different therefrom.

[0124] Preferably, the flap 150 may have a free end that faces towards the central opening 110 and, opposite thereto, a connecting end for connecting the flap 150 to the ring member 120.

[0125] The flap 150 may be provided on an upper edge section 121 of the ring member 120. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 11. In FIGS. 5 and 7, the expander device 100 is exemplarily shown in relation to the pouch 500 and the container 500. Therein in a preferred operational orientation, the upper edge section 121 may be provided on an upper part of the ring member 120. Preferably, the upper edge section 121 may extend circumferentially along the ring member 120. Alternatively or additionally, the flap 150 may preferably extend from the device rim section 180. Preferably, the flap 150 may be integrally formed with the ring member 120. Preferably, the flaps 150 may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the central opening 110. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 24.

[0126] The flap 150 may have a length in an extension direction that may be equal to or larger than a height H120 or thickness T of the ring member 120. Preferably, the height H120 of the ring member 120 may be between 1 cm to 10 cm, preferably between 1 cm to 5 cm. Alternatively or additionally, the flap 150 may have a length in an extension direction that may be equal to or larger than or a height H110 of the central opening 110. The respective dimensions are exemplarily indicated in FIG. 1. For example, the thickness T of the ring member 120 may be defined as the extension between the outer circumferential surface 161 and the inner circumferential surface 162. Alternatively, the thickness T may be understood as the flange width of the device rim section 180.

[0127] Preferably, the extension of the flap 150 between the free end and the connecting end may be larger than the height H110 of the central opening 110 and smaller than the diameter or width of the central opening 110. Preferably, the ring member 120 may have a lateral extension (e.g. diameter, length and/or width) in one extension direction (within a plane) of 3 cm to 90 cm, more preferred of 3 cm to 35 cm.

[0128] The flap 150 is convertible between (at least or only) two positions, namely an expanded position and a collapsed position. The two different positions are exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, in FIGS. 5 and 7, and in FIGS. 12 and 13. As exemplarily shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 6 to 13, the flap 150 may be freely (and/or reversibly) movable (e.g. rotatable or pivotable) between the respective two positions.

[0129] As exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 12, in the expanded position, the flap 150 extends from the ring member 120 on the one side 111 of the central opening 110 such that the central opening 110 is kept clear. In this configuration, the ring member 120 can be brought into alignment with the circumferential rim section 411 of the pouch opening 410 as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7.

[0130] As exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 13 to 24, in the collapsed position, the flap 150 extends from the ring member 120 at least partially into or through the central opening 110 so that a fitment section 151 of the flap 150 faces laterally outside with respect to the central opening 110. In this configuration, the flap 150 can be fitted with the fitment section 151 against the inner side surface 412 of the rim section 411 to keep the pouch opening 410 open. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7. In this configuration, it is possible to access the pouch 400 via the central opening 110 in an access direction AD that is exemplarily indicated by an arrow in FIG. 7. Preferably, the above-described lid 140 of the expander device 100 may be provided to close the central opening 110 in the collapsed position.

[0131] As mentioned before, the Figures show only examples for the respective two positions of the flap 150. However, the flap 150 can be arranged to take different positions that may still fall within the specifics of the configurations of a collapsed position or an expanded position as defined above. Thus, if, for instance, the pouch material cannot be compressed or expanded by the flap 150 in the manner illustrated in FIGS. 5, 7 and 19, the flap 150 may take a position different from the illustrated position, which, however, could still be compliant with the definition of the collapsed position.

[0132] As described above, the flap 150 comprises the fitment section 151. The fitment section 151 may be provided on a side surface of the flap 150. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 24. Preferably, at least parts of the fitment section 151 may comprise an inhibiting feature. The inhibiting feature may be a structured surface (e.g. comprising a rib and/or dot structure), and/or an outer inhibiting layer (e.g. a coating, a laminate or a sticker made of a rubber material).

[0133] Preferably, the flap 150 may comprise at least one fastener 157 for applying contact pressure against the rim section 411 of the pouch opening 410 and/or for fixing the flap 150 at least in the collapsed position. For example, the fastener 157 may be a locking structure or a magnet. The fastener 157 may preferably be fixable with a fastener counterpart 158 that may be provided at the ring member 120 and/or at the storage container 500. For instance, the fastener counterpart 158 may be a magnetic wall section or a corresponding locking structure. In FIG. 1, for example, the fastener 157 and the fastener counterpart 158 are exemplarily indicated by broken lines.

[0134] The flap 150 may be connected to ring member 120 via a connecting section 152. Preferably, the connecting section 152 may be provided on the connecting end. The connecting section 152 may be a separate element from the flap 150 or it may be integral therewith. The connecting section 152 may be made from the same material or a different material than the flap 150. For example, the connecting section 152 may be provided by a flexible, preferably bendable, material, such as plastic, a plastic tape or a fabric. Alternatively, the connecting section 152 may be provided as a reduction in the material of the flap 150. The connecting section 152 may function as a hinge to provide the flap 150 pivotable with respect to the ring member 120. The flap 150 may be (freely) pivotable relative to the ring member 120 (preferably the upper edge section 121) or the central opening 110 by an angle of +/?100 degree, more preferred in a range between 90 degree and 100 degree in either direction (with respect to the central opening 110). For example, FIGS. 2 and 8 to 11 illustrate exemplarily the flap 150 being pivoted by an angle of 0 degree. In comparison, FIGS. 3 and 4 as well as FIGS. 12 to 24 illustrate the flap 150 being pivoted by an angle between +/?90 and +/?100 degrees. Moreover, by providing the flap 150 on the device rim section 180, it may be possible to increase the pivot angle of the flap 150 accordingly as can be seen from a comparison of the embodiments of the expander device 100 illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3.

[0135] As illustrated in FIG. 12 to 24, the connection section 152 may extend in an arcuate manner; here in FIG. 12 to 18 along the round shape of the expander device 100 or its ring member 120. Due to this rounded shape of the connection section 152, the flap 150 is forced into either the (vertically) upward directioni.e. the expanded position as shown in FIG. 12or the (vertically) downward directioni.e. the collapsed position as shown in FIG. 13 to 24. This comes about since the flap 150, when being moved or pivoted out of either the expanded or collapsed position, is deformed and thus tends to relax into its less deformed condition, which is the expanded and collapsed position, respectively. This allows the flap 150 be securely kept in the expanded position (see FIG. 12) if desired during the positioning of the expander device 100. Once positioned, the flap 150 can be pushed downwards or towards the central opening 110 or pouch 400. Therefore, the flap 150 is deformed upon being flexed downwards until it reaches a deformation position from which it tends to relax into the collapsed position as shown in FIG. 13 to 24. As the flap 150 is then securely kept in the collapsed position, no additional fastener 157 and fastener counterpart 158 are needed.

[0136] The flap 150 may also be provided with an information feature 156, e.g. showing instructions for use of the flap 150. The information feature 156 can be a painting, a sticker or even be integral with the flap 150, e.g. an engraving.

[0137] For example, in case the filling level of the product inside the pouch 400 would initially not allow for the flap 150 being brought into the collapsed position, it may become necessary to either empty the pouch 400 sufficiently before using the expander device 100 or to distribute the product within the pouch 400 such that the flap 150 can be brought into the collapsed position. The pouch 400 may be provided with a headspace sufficient for bringing the flap 150 into the collapsed position.

[0138] As illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 14 to 28, and as can be best seen in FIG. 19, the ring member 120 may comprise a circumferential first rim section 171 from which the flap(s) 150 extend (e.g. comprising the upper end), and an integral second rim section 172 being provided opposite to the first rim section 171 with respect to the central opening 110 (e.g. comprising the lower end) for fitting the expander device 100 at the rim section 411 of the pouch opening 410 oras illustrated in FIG. 19at the container opening 510 of the storage container 500 for receiving the pouch 400.

[0139] The ring member 120, at least in the second rim section 172, may have an inverted V-shape or U-shape in circumferential cross-section, as also illustrated in FIG. 19. This ring member 120 or second rim section 172 comprises an inner wall section 173 facing the central opening 110 and an outer wall section 174 facing laterally outside the expander device 100. The inner wall section 173 and the outer wall section 174 thus define a receiving space 175 therebetween for receiving and preferably sandwiching the rim section 411 of the pouch opening 410 oras illustrated in FIG. 19the container rim section 511 circumferentially surrounding the container opening 510 of the storage container 500 in the fitted state of the expander device 100.

[0140] As further illustrated in FIG. 19, one of the inner wall section 173 or the outer wall section 174here the outer wall section 174may comprise the attachment section 160 or connection section 163, preferably facing towards the receiving spaceThis allows for a form-fit connection with a corresponding structure 513 of the pouch 400 or the container 500; here a crimped section of the container rim section 511.

[0141] As also illustrated in FIG. 19, one of the inner wall section 173 or the outer wall section 174here the inner wall section 173comprises the device rim section 180, preferably facing towards the receiving space.

[0142] If both the attachment section 160 and the device rim section are provided at the second rim section 172, one of which is preferably provided on the inner wall section 173 and the other one of which is preferably provided on the outer wall section 174, as illustrated in FIG. 19 as well.

[0143] Preferably, the expander device 100 may comprise at least one support element 131, 132 for receiving a dosing device (such as the below described dosing device 300) within (and/or inside) the ring member 120. Preferably, two or more support elements 131, 132 may be provided. The support elements 131, 132 may have any configuration (shape, size, and/or their respective arrangement within the ring member 120) that is suitable for blocking a dosing device 300 from falling through the central opening 110. The support elements 131, 132 may be configured such that a dosing device 300 is storable inside the ring member 120. For example, the support elements 131, 132 may be a platform or a ledge protruding laterally inward from the inner surface 113 of the ring member 120, respectively. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 11 and 20 to 24. By providing the support elements 131, 132 in this manner, a dosing device 300 can be stored securely within the expander device 100. Thereby, the risk of contaminating the interior of the pouch 400 can be reduced since the operator can place a dosing device 300 immediately after its usage inside the expander device 100 and thus, any contact with external surfaces or substances can be avoided.

[0144] At least one of the support elements 131, 132 may protrude laterally inward from the ring member 120 (into the central opening 110). Thereby, the support elements 131, 132 may (at least) partially cover the central opening 110. Preferably, the support elements 131, 132 may be arranged opposite to each other with respect to (the center of) the central opening 110. Preferably, the support elements 131, 132 may be arranged at one of the two opposite ends between which the ring member 120 extends (longitudinally). The support element 131, 132 may at least partially extend between the two opposite ends of the ring member 120. The support elements 131, 132 may be provided integral with the ring member 120. Preferably, the support elements 131, 132 may extend within the same plane (mentioned above) as the ring member 120. This is exemplarily shown in FIGS. 9 to 11. However, the support elements 131, 132 can be arranged also at any other position between the two opposite ends of the ring member 120. For example, the support elements 131, 132 may be arranged halfway between the two opposite ends of the ring member 120. The support elements 131, 132 may have the same shape and size, or they may be configured to be different from each other. For example, the support elements 131, 132 may have a (hollow) semicircle, are or bow shape. This is exemplarily shown in FIGS. 8 to 11. Therein, a first support element 131 is exemplarily shown with a semicircle shape. In this illustrated example, a second support element 132 has the shape of a segment of a semicircle. However, these are only examples and other shapes are conceivable. Preferably, the support elements 131, 132 may be arranged and/or distributed along an inner edge of the ring member 120 (perimeter of the central opening 110) such that each of the support elements 131, 132 is arranged between two flaps 150. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 11.

[0145] Preferably, the ring member 120 may comprise a support rim section 133 that may protrude laterally away towards the central opening 110. The support rim section 133 may extend along the perimeter of the ring member 120. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 8 to 11. The support rim section 133 may be provided to provide additional structural support for the support elements 131, 132.

[0146] Further, the support elements 131, 132 may comprise surface features for securing (attaching/holding) a dosing device to (inside) the ring member 120. For example, the surface features may be fasteners, protruding structures, clips, latches or spring locks, and/or a surface layer for increasing friction and/or adhesive forces between the ring member 120 and a dosing device. Thereby, it can be achieved that a dosing device is not only kept by the support elements 131, 132 from falling through the central opening 110 but also secured (fixed) in a defined position within the expander device 100.

[0147] In case of the dosing device 100 having the lid 140, the support elements 131, 132 may also be provided on or at the lid 140 for receiving the dosing device 300 preferably such that the dosing device 300 can be stored securely within the expander device 100 in the closed condition of the lid 140, as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 14, 15, 18 and 24. This is preferably obtained by the dosing device 300 here being supported on the inner lid surface 142 so that, when closing the lid 140, the dosing device 300 is move along and at least partially or completely positioned inside the ring member 120 in the central opening 110 when the lid 140 is closed onto the ring member 120. Therefore, the support elements 131, 132 are preferably provided on or at the inner lid surface 142.

[0148] As illustrated in FIG. 14 to 24, at least one of the at least one or the plurality of flaps 150 (here all flaps 150) comprises a levelling section 154, which is provided at a distal edge (i.e. the free end) of the flap 150 with respect to the ring member 120. In the collapsed state, the levelling section 154 bulges towards the central opening 110 or is laterally offset from the fitment section 151 towards the central opening 110, so that the levelling section 154 allows for the dosing device 300 to slide along and thus levelling the product carried therewith. In a preferred embodiment as shown, the levelling section 154 comprises a straight edge section 155 for a most accurate levelling function.

[0149] A further aspect of the invention relates to a package system 200. FIGS. 5 to 7 show different embodiments of the package system 200.

[0150] The package system 200 comprises at least one pouch 400 containing a food product. The pouch 400 may be the same, similar or different from the pouch 400 described before. The package system 200 further comprises the expander device 100 as described above. Therein, the flap 150 is configured to be inserted into the pouch opening 410 when being converted from the expanded position to the collapsed position to keep the pouch opening 410 open by fitment of the fitment section 151 against the inner side surface 412 of the rim section 411 of the pouch opening 410.

[0151] Preferably, the package system 200 may further comprise a storage container 500 with a container opening 510, which may be suitable for receiving the pouch 400 and the expander device 100. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7. The storage container 500 may be the same, similar or different from the storage container 500 described above. The package system 200 may also comprise a container lid 550 for closing the storage container 500. The container lid 550 may be a snap on lid, for example. Alternatively or additionally, the container lid 550 may be connected to the container 500 via a hinge. Preferably, the container lid 550 may be a twist-off lid. As mentioned, the lid 140 may also come along with the expander device 100 and is preferably integrally formed therewith, e.g. via the hinge 141.

[0152] As exemplarily shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, the expander device 100 may be configured to press the rim section 411 of the pouch 400 against the circumferential inner wall section 512 of the storage container 500, which may be preferably at or adjacent to the container opening 510. For example, the inner wall section 512 may be at a distance of up to 5 cm from the container opening 510, more preferred within 0.2 cm to 5 cm from the container opening 511.

[0153] The expander device 100, preferably at least its ring member 120 or the second rim section 172, may be configured to sit on or be fitted onto the storage container 500. For example, the expander device 100 may be fitted into or onto the container opening 510. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5, 7, 19 and 26 to 28.

[0154] The package system 200 may further comprise the mentioned dosing device 300 for measuring and dispensing a suitable amount of product contained inside the pouch 400.

[0155] For example, the dosing device 300 may be a scoop, spoon or measuring cup. FIGS. 5 to 7 and 10 to 13 as well as FIG. 24 show the dosing device 300 exemplarily.

[0156] The dosing device 300 may comprise a handle 310 for being gripped and a bowl 320 for retrieving a defined amount of product from the pouch 400.

[0157] Preferably, the bowl 320 may have a defined volume that may be open towards one side in a filling direction. The bowl 320 may comprise a defined surface structure. For example, slits penetrating a portion of the bowl 320 or ribs protruding therefrom may be provided as such surface structure. For example, the ribs may be used to indicate a defined filling level. Preferably, the bowl 320 may have a similar height as the ring member 120 so that the dosing device 300 can fit inside (within) the expander device 100. Thereby, the dosing device 300 can be stored inside the expander device 100.

[0158] The handle 310 may extend along a longitudinal direction. Preferably, the filling direction of the bowl 320 may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the handle 310. Preferably, the handle 310 may comprise structures, such as ribs, for improving the bending stiffness and/or rigidity of the dosing device 300 in order to reduce the risk of the dosing device 300 breaking during scooping. The handle 310 may be adjustable in length. For example, the handle 310 may comprise a telescopic mechanism. Preferably, the handle 310 may be extendable in size through a spring mechanism (biased towards maximum length) or by attaching extension elements. Such configurations may be advantageous if the package system 200 is used with pouches 400 of different sizes. Preferably, the handle 310 may be attached to the bowl 320. The handle 310 may be integral with the bowl 320. The handle 310 may extend laterally away from the bowl 320 with respect to its opening. Preferably, the dosing device 300 (preferably the handle 310 and the bowl 320) may extend within a single plane.

[0159] The dosing device 300 may be made from any (food safe) material, such as plastic (e.g. PE), metal, and/or a fiber-based material, such as cardboard or pulp. The dosing device 300 may extend longitudinally with a length that corresponds with the diameter of the central opening 110. Preferably, the dosing device 300 may have a length that is smaller than the central opening 110 (at the lower end, for example).

[0160] It is also conceivable that, for example, the handle 310 and/or the bowl 320 may be provided with locking structures that may be configured to correspond with the surface features provided on the support elements 131, 132. The dosing device 300 may have a length that is larger than the distance (gap) between the two opposite support elements 131, 132. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0161] Preferably, the expander device 100 may be arranged inside the pouch opening 410 such thatin the connected state of the pouch 400 and the expander device 100the support elements 131, 132 are at the lower end of the expander device 100. FIGS. 8 and 10 illustrate this orientation of the expander device 100 exemplarily. Thereby, it can be achieved that the dosing device 300 can be stored within the expander device 100 while not contacting any part of the substance contained inside the pouch 400. The same advantage applies if the dosing device 300 is supported at or in the lid 140 such that it is positioned inside the ring member 120 in the closed condition of the lid 140. In the open condition, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 to 15, 18 and 24, the dosing device 300 is then even further distanced from the substance contained inside the pouch 400 and even more easy to grasp for a user. Accordingly, the risk of a user touching the substance when retrieving the dosing device 300 from the pouch 400 can be reduced.

[0162] Preferably, the dosing device 300 and the expander device 100 may be configured such that the dosing device 300 may be placeable onto the support elements 131, 132 such that the opening of the volume of the bowl 320 faces towards the lower end of the expander device 100 (and thus, towards the substance contained inside the pouch 400). Thereby, substances from a previous dosing process can fall back into the pouch 400 so that an accumulation and waste of substance can be reduced. The dosing device 300 may be placed and/or stored inside the expander device 100 in the collapsed position and/or in the expanded position.

[0163] Moreover, the package system 200 may also comprise an opening device 600 for opening the pouch 400. For example, the opening device 600 may be scissors.

[0164] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for use of the package system 200. FIGS. 5 and 7 show exemplarily various steps of different embodiments of a method for use of the package system 200.

[0165] The method comprises the step of providing the package system 200 as described above. Preferably, the package system 200 may be provided such that the flap 150 of the expander device 100 is already in the expanded position. Alternatively, the expander device 100 may be provided in a different configuration and the flap 150 may be converted by the hand 700 of an operator into the expanded position. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7.

[0166] Preferably, the pouch 400 is opened by hand 700, e.g. by the operator, with an opening device 600, such as a tearing line provided on the pouch 400 or scissors, to provide the pouch opening 410. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7.

[0167] The ring member 120 is placed adjacent to or over the pouch opening 410 so that the ring member 120 is in alignment with the circumferential rim section 411 of the pouch opening 410. This is exemplarily illustrated. Preferably, the ring member 120 may be brought in proximity to the pouch opening 410 such that the flap 150 may reach inside the pouch 400 in the collapsed position.

[0168] The flap 150 is converted from the expanded position to the collapsed position so that the fitment section 151 is fitted against the inner side surface 412 of the rim section 411 to keep the pouch opening 410 open. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7. Thereby, for example, the pouch 400 may be converted from a folded configuration that is less accessible to an unfolded configuration that allows easy access to the product inside the pouch 400. This is exemplarily indicated by gussets blocking the available space in the pouch opening 410 in FIGS. 5 and 7. Therefore, optionally, the rim section 411 may be clamped between the fitment section 151 on the one hand and the ring member 120 on the other hand. The pouch 400 may be closed with a lid 140, which may be preferably attached to the expander device 100 for closing the central opening 110.

[0169] Preferably, the dosing device 300 may be placed and stored on the support elements 131, 132 inside the expander device 100 preferably in its collapsed position. The dosing device 300 may be placed inside the expander device 100 with the opening of the bowl 320 facing towards the inside of the pouch 400. Preferably, the dosing device 300 may be fastened to the support elements 131, 132 inside the ring member 120 by interlocking structures provided on the support elements 131, 132 and the dosing device 300. Alternatively, the dosing device 300 may also be supported by the lid 140 of the expander device 100, if present, preferably in a manner such that the dosing device 300 is positioned inside the ring member 120 in the closed condition of the lid 140.

[0170] Furthermore, the storage container 500 of the package system 200 may be provided. The pouch 400 may be placed inside the storage container 500. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7.

[0171] The rim section 411 may be clamped between the fitment section 151 on the one hand and the storage container 500 and/or the inner wall section 173 (see, e.g., FIG. 19) on the other hand. Alternatively or additionally, when converting the flap 150 from the expanded position to the collapsed position, the rim section 411 may be pressed at least with the flap 150 towards or onto the circumferential inner wall section 512 of the storage container 500 and/or the inner wall section 173. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7 for the former as well as in FIG. 19 for the latter. Preferably, this engagement between the inner wall section 512, 173 and the pouch 400 may be near or close to the container opening 510. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 5, 7 and 19. Optionally, the expander device 100 may be fitted or sat with its attachment section 160 and/or its second rim section 172 onto the storage container 500, for example at the container opening 510 as illustrated in FIGS. 5, 7 and 19. The storage container 500 may be closed with a container lid 550 or the lid 140, as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 26 to 28.

[0172] The invention is not limited by the embodiments as described hereinabove, as long as being covered by the appended claims. All the features of the embodiments described hereinabove can be combined in any possible way and be provided interchangeably.