Abstract
A packaging with integrated tube comprising a tube 17 attached to a film 18 that is attached to the packaging 15 with an opening place 16 so the user can push the tube and the opening place against each other to pierce the packaging while the film is attached to the tube and the packaging at predetermined locations so the film lets the tube to be moved partially while the film prevents the full detachment of the tube from the packaging and the opening place is part of the boundary of the packaging so the content of packaging can contact the opening place and penetrating this boundary will position the tube as such that one end of tube is inside the packaging and other end is outside, this way, the tube provides access to the content of the package after creating an opening. FIG. 1 to accompany abstract.
Claims
1. A packaging with integrated tube comprising a tube attached to a film that is attached to the packaging with an opening place so the user can push the tube and the opening place against each other to pierce the packaging while the film is attached to the tube and the packaging at predetermined locations so the film lets the tube to be moved partially while the film prevents the full detachment of the tube from the packaging and the opening place is part of the boundary of the packaging so the content of packaging can contact the opening place and penetrating this boundary will position the tube as such that one end of tube is inside the packaging and other end is outside, this way, the tube provides access to the content of the package after creating an opening.
2. The packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the tube is held by the film connected to the packaging so user can fold the packaging to push the tube and the opening place against each other to open the packaging.
3. The packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the tube's cross section can be various shapes, and the packaging is made of flexible material.
4. The packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the film is a tethering mechanism.
5. The packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the opening place is a pierceable membrane and the film can be constituted from more than one entity.
6. The packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the tube consists of two parts which one of them can pass through the opening place while other part cannot pass through the opening place.
7. The packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which end of tube has a sharp or pointy shape to enhance the piercing feature of the tube when compared to a tube with a smooth end.
8. The packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which after the user open the packaging, the tube would be passed through the packaging as such the packaging is tight around the tube at the opening place.
9. The packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which on the packaging some guidance is provided to let the user know that there is a spout inside the pouch and to give instruction to the user so that the user understand that for opening the packaging and to access its content, the user is required to find the position of the spout which is inside the packaging and push it against the pierceable spot by fingers touching outside of the pouch to push the spout from one end as indicated so the other end of spout pierce the packaging at the right spot that is predetermined as opening place and is pierceable.
10. The packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the film that is used to connect the tube and packaging also covers the opening place.
11. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the tube is attached to the film as part of the manufacturing process.
12. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the film is attached to the packaging as part of the manufacturing process.
13. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the film is attached in between layers of the packaging during the formation of packaging in manufacturing.
14. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the tube is placed inside the packaging during the manufacturing while one side of the packaging is open so the film with tube attached to it can be fed into the packaging and attached to the packaging.
15. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the packaging is filled by the intended product as the tube is attached to the film and the film is attached to the packaging throughout the filling process of packaging so afterward the packaging is ready to be completely sealed while the tube is connected to the packaging via the film.
16. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the packaging is formed by intended machineries as the tube is attached to the film and the film is attached to the packaging throughout the process of formation of the packaging, so the packaging is made with the tube that is integrated to the packaging via the film that is attached to both the tube and the packaging.
17. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the attachment between the tube and the film is formed during the manufacturing process as the tube is positioned next to the film and they are attached at a location via means like heat-seal, ultrasound sealing, or glue and the film is attached to the packaging in similar manners to form the packaging with integrated tube.
18. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the attachment between the packaging and the film is done before formation of the packaging.
19. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the film is attached to a sheet of flexible material that will form the packaging later.
20. A method of making the packaging with integrated tube as recited in claim 1, in which the material forming the packaging is folded during the manufacturing process to let the attachment of the film.
Description
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS AND THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0063] FIG. 1, a diagram is shown illustrating a variation of the present invention in which the tube 17 at location 14 is attached to the foil 18 at location 13.
[0064] FIG. 2, a diagram is shown illustrating one of the variations of the present invention. In here, a built-in/integrated tube/spout/straw 17 has passed through the opening area/hole 16 and is close to the reclosure mechanism such as a cap at any preferable location for example 23 and 25.
[0065] FIG. 3, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention. In here part of the straw/spout 17 is attached to the wall of the pouch/box (container) 15, by heat-sealing/ultrasonic welding/glue 31, or other means known in packaging industry.
[0066] FIG. 4, a diagram is shown a variation of the present invention as with FIG. 3.
[0067] FIG. 5, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention. In here a spout/straw 17 is attached to a foil/film 18.
[0068] FIG. 6, a diagram is shown illustrating other variations of the present invention. In here a spout/straw 17 is attached to a foil/film 72 which itself is sealed at location 73 to a pouch 15.
[0069] FIG. 7, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention in which the spout 17 is attached to the foil/film 18 that is covering hole 16 while being sealed to the pouch 15.
[0070] FIG. 8, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention that follows the principal of the variation illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0071] FIG. 9, a diagram is shown illustrating an example of the methods that spout can be modified for enhancement of its function.
[0072] FIG. 10, a diagram is shown illustrating other variations of the present invention. The spout 17 is attached to the pouch by its flat part 113 to the pouch.
[0073] FIG. 11, a diagram is shown illustrating diagrams of a variation of present invention from different point of views.
[0074] FIGS. 12 and 13, some diagrams are shown illustrating potential interaction of the user with some variations of present invention.
[0075] FIG. 14 a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention in which the tube/spout 17 is attached to the foil 18 or 72.
[0076] FIG. 15, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention.
[0077] FIG. 16, a diagram is shown illustrating a built-in straw/spout 17 with corrugation 37 that has passaged through the opening place 16 to open the packaging 15.
[0078] FIG. 17, a diagram is shown illustrating a telescopic spout/straw 17 being built into the pouch 15.
[0079] FIG. 18, a diagram is shown illustrating some variations of the present invention.
[0080] FIGS. 19 and 20, a diagram is shown illustrating the ways for manufacturing a part of the present invention by attachment/sealing of the spout 17 to foil 72 that will be sealed to the pouch and can be used for a range of potential manufacturing methods for the present invention.
[0081] FIG. 21, a diagram is shown illustrating one of the potential manufacturing methods for the present invention.
[0082] FIG. 22, a diagram is shown illustrating stages of another potential manufacturing method for the present invention.
[0083] FIG. 23A, a diagram is shown illustrating some of the examples of modifications that should be applied to various parts of a pouch making machine for retrofitting it.
[0084] FIG. 23B, a diagram is shown illustrating one of the potential variations and manufacturing methods for the present invention.
[0085] FIG. 24, a diagram is shown illustrating examples of filling and attachments of fitments of present invention to the premade pouch or as part of FFS.
[0086] FIG. 25, a diagram is shown illustrating examples of filling and attachments of fitments of present invention by a rotary machine to the premade pouch or as part of FFS.
[0087] FIG. 26, a diagram is shown illustrating an example of methods for attaching/sealing the spout to a foil or other components of packaging that is disclosed in present invention.
[0088] FIG. 27, multiple diagrams are shown illustrating some examples of transportation and guiding systems for spouts and foils and mechanisms that facilitate the handling of foil during the manufacturing of the present invention.
[0089] FIG. 28, a diagram is shown illustrating an example of attachment of spout/straw to the foil of spout holder.
[0090] FIG. 29, illustrating an example of user interaction with present invention.
[0091] FIG. 30, a diagram is shown illustrating a variation of the present invention where written instructions 310 on the container 15 is provided.
[0092] FIG. 31, a diagram is shown illustrating some variations of spout that can be used for the present invention.
[0093] FIG. 32, a diagram is shown illustrating some variations of container that can be used for the present invention.
[0094] Referring now to FIG. 1, a diagram is shown illustrating a variation of the present invention in which the tube 17 at location 14 is attached to the foil 18 at location 13. The opening place 16 is sealed by the foil 18. Foil 18 can also be sealed to the pouch at other predetermined locations such as the edges of the pouch. Preferably film 18 is not attached to the pouch at the location of the flap 13. Accordingly, flap 13 lets the spout 17 to be moved partially at the time of opening the pouch. The spout 17 can also be attached to the film 18 at other locations too. For example, the side of the opening place 16 consequently it can be helpful to weaken the foil 18 at appropriate places so the movement of spout by user is convenient. For example, optional perforation lines 12 can be used to make the foil 18 tear easily to increase the movement of tube 17 as the user open the packaging by means such as piercing the foil at the opening time. The arrangement and direction of tube, perforations and shapes and number of foils can be different than this representative diagram. The present invention is providing manoeuvrability and agility for the movement of tube/spout 17 at the time of piercing/opening while maintaining the anti-littering mechanism that prevents the full detachment of the various parts. The tube/spout 17 can have different width, length, and shape, also might have corrugation at various places and to increase the surface area for attachment can be flat at some points/sides. Foil 18 can be in various shapes and forms that cover two essential functions, providing a tethering mechanism for spout/tube 17 by being firmly attached to both the spout and the pouch as well as sealing the opening place of pouch with an easy to pierce function/role. These two properties can be achieved by two separate films too. Like other figures of present invention, shapes, and forms of the objects in this figure are as examples but these are not only limited to these shapes and forms and can be any shapes and forms commonly used in packaging or related industries. Although in here only one aperture is on the container but it is not limited to one and is possible to have two or more apertures on the container for placing the spout/straw into the box. Also, extra apertures can be used as an air passage to compensate the pressure. Piercing is an example of letting the spout pass through the packaging and other methods like removal of part of the foil by user can be used too. Another example is use of a lid or pull-tab. A reclosure mechanism like cap 19, can be added to packaging if preferred or appropriate like in case of multiple use packaging. For the applications that hygiene of product is important (like food, baby food and beverage industry), the reclosure/cap will have a means/method/part for being protected from dirt, dust, and any other inappropriate substance. For example, in here the cap 19 has a cover which can act as the barrier to keep it sanitary for food applications. In case of single use application there is no need for reclosure mechanism consequently the plastic reduction and environmental benefit of present invention will be amplified. An infographic/text or other methods of visualisation can be used to make the packaging usage fun and convenient/easy to understand/educative. For example, a picture of bait drawn on cap and a picture of fish on spout that wants to catch the bait. Or a combination of frog and fly. These can be used for all other variations of present invention too. The container/pouch can be made of a see-through foil/laminate partially or completely to enhance the visibility and manoeuvrability over the tube/spout/straw at the time of piercing/opening the packaging.
[0095] Referring now to FIG. 2, a diagram is shown illustrating one of the variations of the present invention. In here, a built-in/integrated tube/spout/straw 17 has passed through the opening area/hole 16 and is close to the reclosure mechanism such as a cap at any preferable location for example 23 and 25. The spout 17 is attached/sealed to the additional foil (spout holder) 13 preferably at location 14. The same film 13 that holds the spout in place, or another separate foil/film is used to seal 29 the packaging at the opening place 16. The foil 13 can be an extension/part of the pouch's foil/film if preferred. In here the spout 17 is passed through the foil, consequently the container/pouch is open and is ready to pour its content through the tube/spout/straw 17. Spout 17 can also provide a passage for the content of pouch by other means like sucking other than pouring. The outer side of the wall of tube/spout/straw 17 is wiped as it has been passed through the opening hole 16. Preferably its diameter compared to the diameter of the hole 16 provides a tight fit 18 that can result in three but not limited benefits. First, the content cannot leak between the spout 17 and pouch when the packaging is in use. Second, the content is not dripping from the spout 17 as it comes out of the hole 16. The third benefit is stabilisation/fastening effect 18 to hold the tube/spout/straw 17 in place. Also, extra paddings/linings can be used to enhance these benefits and their related functions. These values/principles and their benefits can be applied to all other variations of the present invention.
[0096] By folding/flexing the pouch, the cap 25 or 23 can reclose/seal the tube/spout 17. This can be used for closing/sealing the spout in between the uses after the pouch is opened initially by for example piercing action of the spout or removal of film from the opening area 16 or by any other means. Caps 25 and 23 are examples of methods and means of reclosing the packaging and other ways of resealing/closing/reclosing and reopening are considered as part of present invention. For example, the foil of pouch or an additional foil can become a pocket/shell/casing to act as covering/concealing for spout and reclosure of pouch. Also, an instrument like clicking mechanism can be applied as an example of methods to inform the user that the spout is closed with the cap. In here, two caps 25 and 23 has been shown in two different locations to illustrate examples of various places that the reclosure mechanism can be applied. Same as cap the location of spout can also be anywhere of the container/pouch. Cap 23 itself is a variation of cap 25. Cap 23 is beneficial for certain applications in which the hygienic aspects are important like food and beverage packaging. As example, covering layer 26 will protect the cap from unwanted contaminations. The cover 26 is attached to the pouch permanently at location 24 to avoid littering if preferred/needed as well as being attached to and cover the cap 23 temporary. The user can remove the cover 26 from the cap 23 by moving/pulling the extension of the cover at location 27. The attachment of cap/closure/spout to the container/pouch can be direct or indirect (for example using a band or another foil) from any side or area by means of any attachment like heat sealing, glue, ultrasound sealing and induction sealing but not limited to these methods, also it's possible to form the tube with one side of it being flat for increasing the surface area of attachment. Also, it's possible to form the resin for fitments on-line/in line or just before or after the other steps of manufacturing. The broken line 21 is an indication that container can have various shapes to accommodate these components.
[0097] Attachments of various parts of present invention should be able to withstand/endure/tolerate the physical and chemical challenges of processes of manufacturing like the ballooning effect of hot bath for pasteurisation shouldn't cause the detachment of spout from the pouch. Attachments should be such as to be able to withstand/endure/tolerate the erosion/destruction effect of some antiseptic chemical or some type of products like acidic beverages/smoothies or destructing effect of some detergents. For example, right polyolefins materials can be chosen by their properties for the production of present invention to meet these requirements. As mentioned previously, the aforementioned principles can be applied to all variations of present invention whether they are shown in figures or not.
[0098] Referring now to FIG. 3, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention. In here part of the straw/spout 17 is attached to the wall of the pouch/box (container) 15, by heat-sealing/ultrasonic welding/glue 31, or other means known in packaging industry. The container/pouch 15 is preferably flexible enough to be folded at the top 38. The spout/straw 17 preferably with the sharp end 35 can pierce the packaging to get out of/into the container/pouch 15 at the place of a hole 16 which is covered up by a pierceable film 18 which is sealed around it. The film 18 also can be attached/sealed to the container at other locations. The purpose of secondary film 18 is making the piercing action easier and more convenient and use of secondary film/foil/laminate is only as example, if the purpose is achievable by other means like addition of additive to the main foil of the pouch then that can reduce/eliminate need for secondary foil. The user can fold the container (near to the top 38), as a result the sharp end 35 of the straw 17 would be slightly folded and pushed against the film 18 and pierce the packaging. A variation to plastic film 18 can be a thinner wall than rest of the laminate of pouch/container 15 at the predetermined place of the container. However, using secondary film 18 can be a preferable method. The attachment 31 can be anywhere along the tube/straw/spout 17 and cover any length of it. The attachment 31 can be connection of tube 17 to the foil 18 instead of pouch 15, this will enhance the manoeuvrability without compromising the integrity of main foil of the pouch/container. The tube/spout/straw 17 might have different shape, for example having a square, rectangle, triangular or any other shape of cross-section. Location of the opening place/hole 16 can be anywhere on the pouch/container 15 and it may have a different shape for example having a square, rectangle, triangular or any other shape. The pouch container 15 might have different shape or form and can be made from material common in industry and packaging. Tube 17 can be having any shape common in food and beverage and packaging industry. Although in this figure the cross section of tube 17 is circular but it can have any shape or form. The length of tube 17 can be any appropriate length. The two ends of tube 36 can have any shape or form. The corrugated part of tube 17 can be eliminated or can cover any length of tube continuous or not continuous. A bend can exist in tube 17 to facilitate the function. The number of bends in tube 17 is not limited to one and can be more if needed or preferred. Either or both of the tube 17 and foil 18 can be placed inside or outside the pouch 15. The pouch 15 can have any shape that deliver the result. The pouch 15 can have a handle or other type of attaching/anchoring mechanism to enhance the handling of pouch while piercing it with tube/spout/straw. The pouch 15 can have a clear/see through window at appropriate location close to placement of spout to facilitate the detection of spout/straw for piercing the pouch. This can be done for example by addition of clarifying additives to the polyolefins. The pouch can be completely, or majority made of clear laminate/foil/film. The see-through part can be of an additional foil or be part of main laminate of the pouch. In applications that are deemed appropriate there can be a reclosure mechanism like cap to facilitate the reclosing of the packaging by obscuring the pathway of content of pouch. The tube can have deformation(s)/attachment(s) to facilitate its stabilisation before and after being used/deployed. Other preferred method of fastening/securing the tube/spout/straw 17 at the time of use is by making/constructing the dimension of hole/opening area 16 being tight fit/smaller/marginal to the dimension of part of the tube 17 passing through it. The edges of hole 16 can be made sticky/adhesive to increase the anchoring/fastening effect on the tube 17 at the time of use. Attachment 31 should be such as to be able to withstand/endure/tolerate the heat effect of some heat intense processes of manufacturing the packaging and product like pasteurisation and hot filling. Edges, curvature, boundaries and shape and form of the container/pouch 15 can be anything that deliver the purpose of present invention, the present drawing is the exemplary sketch. Head of tube 35 can be higher, level or lower in respect to the position of opening 16. The flexibility of pouch and tube can play role(s) in making the piercing, opening, closing, sealing, reclosing, resealing functions convenient, practical and easy. The infographic can be used to help the user to know how to open and reclose the packaging.
[0099] Referring now to FIG. 4, a diagram is shown a variation of the present invention as with FIG. 3. However, in here the diagram shows the step where the straw 17 is slightly folded since the user has pushed down the head of tube/spout/straw 35 by folding the top 48. The head of the tube/spout/straw 17 would get to the place of opening/hole 16 which is covered by thin film (preferably easy to pierce) 18. As a result of pressure against thin plastic film 18, it become pierced and lets the tube/spout/straw to pass to/come out of the container 15 through the hole 16.
[0100] It is suggested for the spout 17 to be corrugated partially 37, to lets the tube spout straw to become extended after piercing and provide a more convenient user experience. The 31 can act as hindrance. So, the user can pull the tube 17 to drink easily but it wouldn't be detached completely from the pouch 15. Tube 17 can take/be made any shape either common or not.
[0101] Referring now to FIG. 5, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention. In here a spout/straw 17 is attached to a foil/film 18. The foil is attached/sealed around an opening area 16 of a packaging 15.
[0102] Referring now to FIG. 6, a diagram is shown illustrating other variations of the present invention. In here a spout/straw 17 is attached to a foil/film 72 which itself is sealed at location 73 to a pouch 15. The other foil 18 is attached/sealed around an opening area 16 of the packaging 15.
[0103] Referring now to FIG. 7, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention in which the spout 17 is attached to the foil/film 18 that is covering hole 16 while being sealed to the pouch 15. The user can open the pouch at location 82 by passing the spout 17 through hole 16 after piercing film 18. The opening of pouch is facilitated by perforation 12 which let the partial movement of spout through the hole 16. The tube 17 can have various shape size, cross section, and length, also it can have features like bend and corrugations. The perforation 12 is an example of mechanism that let the foil and tube attached to it together move easily if the film 18 is sealed at the edge(s) 85 of pouch 15. Other means of weakening the foil/film/laminate like use of additives can be employed too. The perforation 12 can be at various locations and in various directions and length. Foil 18 can be in various shape and form continuously or separated that cover two essential functions, providing a place for attachment of the tube 17 as well as sealing the opening of pouch 15 with an easy to pierce structure/properties.
[0104] Referring now to FIG. 8, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention that follows the principal of the variation illustrated in FIG. 7. Straw 17 can be used for piercing the foil 18 at location 82 of the pouch 15 to pass through the hole 16. The straw 17 is attached/sealed to the film 18 at location 97. The foil 18 is sealed to the pouch 15 around the hole 16 as well as other places like its ends. Attachment of the straw 17 to the foil 18 restricts its movement consequently a weakening method like perforation 12 or use of additives instead can facilitate the function and movement of straw by loosening the connection of film 18 to the pouch 15 partially as straw is being employed by user for opening the pouch. Since straw is firmly attached to the foil 18 and the foil itself is attached to the pouch 15 consequently straw 17 is tethered to the packaging.
[0105] Referring now to FIG. 9, a diagram is shown illustrating an example of the methods that spout can be modified for enhancement of its function. Part 104 increase the surface area of sealing and also act as hindrance to prevent spout 17 fall out/in. The naked cap 25 or covered cap 23 and the tube 17 itself can have different arrangement and placement regarding the pouch. The additional foil 72 can seal the hole 16 and hold the spout in place if the spout is not directly attached to the pouch. The film 72 can be divided to two separate films for its varied functions. The cap and tube 17 can have different shapes and sizes. As a reminder, like the other features that are described in other figures of present invention, the parameters and details can be adapted as it is required for convenient functionality/user experience and preferable manufacturing, transportation, storage, and marketing, etc.
[0106] Referring now to FIG. 10, a diagram is shown illustrating other variations of the present invention. The spout 17 is attached to the pouch by its flat part 113 to the pouch. The flat part increases the attachment surface area 114. The corrugation 37 can make the spout/straw extendable at the time of use. The increase of surface area is only an example of methods for enhancement of the attachment of various fitments and parts of the present invention together. The other examples of considerations for this purpose are: choosing the material of the spout and film of the pouch or other attachment place to as such to melt and seal together if heat sealing method is used as for attachment. For example, they can have different layers with different melting points to let the sealing bar heats and melt the contacting layers (of spout and film) but leave the layer close to the heat bar intact. For example, this can be achieved by use of different density of same material. The other consideration for attachment is the melting point of the material used for packaging as of present invention and the other process for production of packaging. For example, PE has lower melting point than PP and if the product need pasteurisation at high temperature, then it should be made sure that right material is chosen for both the spout and its attachment place that the seal doesn't get damaged at the time of pasteurisation.
[0107] Referring now to FIG. 11, a diagram is shown illustrating diagrams of a variation of present invention from different point of views. In here, straw/spout/tube 17 is connected to the pouch 15 by foil/string/strap 72 to become tethered to the pouch. Accordingly, user can easily manoeuvre/move 136 the straw 17 to the point/position 138 that is necessary for opening and drinking/pouring from the pouch, but the straw/spout wouldn't be detached to cause problems like littering and don't damage the environment. Connections/attachments/seals of the foil/string 72 to the straw at exemplary location 135 and to the pouch at exemplary location 132 as well as the foil 72 itself are strong enough to withstand/endure/resist the force threshold that is part of the authorised requirement for a packaging to be considered tethered. The use of optional wrapper 131 which is attached to the pouch 15 is one of the ways that can keep the straw 17 sanitary before the use and make the present invention more suitable for some applications such as foods and beverages. The foil 72 is one of the variations of the foil/film that has sporadically been named spout holder foil in other parts of the specifications of present invention.
[0108] Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, some diagrams are shown illustrating potential interaction of the user with some variations of present invention.
[0109] Referring now to FIG. 14 a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention in which the tube/spout 17 is attached to the foil 18 or 72. The end 35 pierce the foil to pass through the opening area/hole 16. Potential connector 216 can enhance the attachment/sealing between tube/spout/straw 17 and foil/laminate/film 72 or 18. Foil/laminate/film 72 can be extension of part 18 or extension of main pouch/container or a standalone foil/film. It can have various shape or forms. Either some or all of the parts can be placed inside or outside the container/pouch 15 for present invention. For example, spout/straw can be firmly attached to the outside of a pouch to become tethered spout/straw. User would be able to feed spout/straw into the pouch by various means such as extending it from its corrugated part or the spout/straw holder or flex the pouch to insert the spout into the pouch. There can be a reclosure mechanism as an optional extra enhancement for the packaging inside or outside.
[0110] Referring now to FIG. 15, a diagram is shown illustrating another variation of the present invention. The spout is executed and around its junction with pouch is tight as such to provide benefits like preventing the leakage.
[0111] Referring now to FIG. 16, a diagram is shown illustrating a built-in straw/spout 17 with corrugation 37 that has passaged through the opening place 16 to open the packaging 15. The corrugated part 37 is an example of ways to facilitate the extension of the spout 17. Tight opening place 16 is an example of fixing/fastening the spout/straw that is in use.
[0112] Referring now to FIG. 17, a diagram is shown illustrating a telescopic spout/straw 17 being built into the pouch 15. This type of spout has two main parts 255 and 254. One of them is sliding part and the other one is the part that is attached to the pouch or foil. This spout can be extended after being passed through the opening place 16.
[0113] Referring now to FIG. 18, a diagram is shown illustrating some variations of the present invention.
[0114] Referring now to FIGS. 19 and 20, a diagram is shown illustrating the ways for manufacturing a part of the present invention by attachment/sealing of the spout 17 to foil 72 that will be sealed to the pouch and can be used for a range of potential manufacturing methods for the present invention. As shown in this figure, the spouts 17 are placed and attached (using heat seal/glue etc.) to the foil/film/spout holder 72 at specific/predetermined locations. Preferably a weak part in form of perforation 302 is provided on the foil 72 between the places of spouts 17 to facilitate their separations during the manufacturing process. Manufacturing of this embodiment itself could be achievable for example by adapting the current heat-sealing jaws that are used as it is common in art. One part of the adjustment is to make one of the opposing jaws neutral in temperature so only one jaw heats up the (parts with lower melting point of) foil and spout to attach them together and the other jaw provide the support during the process. This embodiment is not limited to this exemplary sealing method and the shown associations between spout and foil.
[0115] Referring now to FIG. 21, a diagram is shown illustrating one of the potential manufacturing methods for the present invention. In the first stage the top part of the pouch/container 312 is open, this allows the spout 17 to be placed inside the pouch preferably by means of the embodiment 72 or the other configuration as shown in FIG. 19 or similar intermediatory connection mechanism. On one side of the pouch, there is a hole 16 that has been covered and sealed preferably by using a band/foil 18, this is to create a weak spot on the pouch (other common methods in the art for creating weak spot on the pouch can also be used, also a sharper/pointy spout can be used instead of creating a weak spot) and facilitate the process of piercing the pouch using the spout 17 by the user. As the top part of the pouch 15 becomes closed and sealed preferably by using the appropriate types of sealing jaws common in the art. The top part of the spout holder 72 becomes sealed to the pouch 311 (this in essence attaches/tethers the spout indirectly to the pouch, any other methods common in the art can also be used for this purpose). The sealing can be done in more steps although in here a single drawing is used as example to illustrate the principles of it. For example, the spout holder 72 can be glued to the pouch preferably above the seal line just to be positioned and partially adhered inside/outside the pouch before being sealed properly at the next stage. after the top part of the pouch 15 became sealed at location 316 together with the top part of the spout holder. Although in here the spout holder is attached to the pouch at the top but this attachment is not limited to this edge and can be done at other locations too. Consequently, the spout holder can be sealed to the pouch during pouch making process. Accordingly, the direction of the spout on the foil in relation to the opening place of the pouch should be adapted.
[0116] The area under the dotted line 315 is an indicator that the shape of the container/pouch for the present invention can vary and is not limited to the one which is shown here. In another variation, the top part of the pouch/container can also be partially sealed in one stage/step and entirely sealed in another stage/stages (for example only one side of the top part of the pouch 312 can be sealed together with part of the spout holder and after the pouch is filled then the rest become sealed). The film/foil 18 can be sealed to the packaging before, after and during the stages that are shown in various figures of present invention, including this very figure. A guiding/transportation system could be used to bring the spout (and its attached foil) to the pouch and facilitate the sealing of it to the predetermined location.
[0117] Referring now to FIG. 22, a diagram is shown illustrating stages of another potential manufacturing method for the present invention from left to right. Initially, the top part of the pouch is open to allow the spout 17 to be placed inside the pouch, preferably by using the embodiments shown in FIG. 20 or other similar configurations. As of example, there are two suggested times for sealing of the spout 17 to the spout holder 72. The spout can already be attached to the film 72 and then be transported to be used as shown in this figure or the foil 72 and spout 17 can be transported individually and become attached together at or just before stage A. The hole 16 on the pouch will become covered by the spout holder 72 and around it will become sealed 321 using heat seal/ultrasound or other preferable methods common in the art that also can attach the film to the pouch. To make sure the sealing is done properly, considerations about types and properties of materials in different layers of the films or other fitments should be taken into account at the time of determining the temperature, pressure and direction of heating elements as well as size of the heated and adhesion places. These are only examples of parameters that should be evaluated for proper attachment of various parts of present invention together. At the next stage the top part of the pouch 312 is sealed (potentially together with the top part of the spout holder 316). In here the spout 17 is indirectly connected to the pouch by means of the spout holder 72 at location 321 (and potentially 312), however the number and position of places for attachment of spout holder 72 to the pouch 311 can vary for the present invention. Finally top part become sealed (partially or fully). The stages shown in here are exemplary to illustrate the principles of manufacturing of present invention which can also be done by involvement of more intermediatory stages. This is the case for other figures too, especially the ones for manufacturing process.
[0118] Referring now to FIG. 23A, a diagram is shown illustrating some of the examples of modifications that should be applied to various parts of a pouch making machine for retrofitting it or some details for how to make a brand-new equipment to manufacture pouches with spout/straw 17 as described in present invention. Modifications that are described here as well as other apparent modifications can be applied to other relevant stages of the pouch making line. Consequently, they are not limited to the stages as shown in this figure. The main foil of the pouch 15 has an opening place/hole 16 that is or will be covered by another (preferably weaker) foil 18 or have some additives for making the primary foil 331 weaker from inside or outside to facilitate the opening of pouch as described in present invention. The attachment of foil 18 can be done before, during, and after making the pouch. For example, relevant stages of pouch making machinery can be modified for attachment of the foil that covers the opening place. Rollers 334 will guide the foil 331 to be fed into the machine/line. The inside of foil 332 is exposed for attachment of the spout directly or indirectly. The spout/straw 17 is attached to the foil (spout holder) 72. Foil (spout holder) 301 is attached to the primary foil of pouch 15. The attachment of spout to the foil 72 can be independent from attachment of foil 72 to the foil 332. Accordingly, these two steps/attachments can be decoupled and happen before or after each other as well as at the same time. The purpose of this figure is illustrating one of the potential places for insertion and attachment of spout that is attached/will be attached to the additional foil as well as attachment and sealing of other parts like cap 19 and additional foils like 72 and 18. The similar methods can be adapted for insertion and attachment/sealing of these to the foil/packaging at other parts of machinery and stages of production line for making present invention. The individual pouch 15 is about to be made by being sealed at its sides while the spout and other fitments are attached or will be attached to it. Also, as shown in 23B the spouts and their foils (spout holders) can be sealed to the pouches at the same time their sides are being sealed to form the individual pouches. The other parts of machine-like part 337 should be designed/modified to facilitate the movement of foils/pouches that have spout/straw attached to their inside or outside. Potentially, at stage 333 the cap 19 can be attached to the pouch if needed with or without cover whichever deemed appropriate for the corresponding product. The attachment of cap or other reclosure fitments can be done at earlier or later stages of production and pouch making line/machinery. The pouch making machinery can be combined/integrated with appropriate filling stages or filling machinery (rotary/linear). The factors like variations in room temperature and ambient humidity during the production as well as the type of product will determine the details of necessary modifications like sealing pressure/temperature and duration. Consequently, the pouch making machine become a modified/new machinery commonly known as form fill seal (FFS). Filling of the pouch can be done before, after and during the modified stages that described for manufacturing of the present invention.
[0119] Referring now to FIG. 23B, a diagram is shown illustrating one of the potential variations and manufacturing methods for the present invention.
[0120] Referring now to FIG. 24, a diagram is shown illustrating examples of filling and attachments of fitments of present invention to the premade pouch or as part of FFS. In this figure two possible manufacturing methods is shown. These are examples of how other attachments and stages of production of present invention can be combined. The two methods of manufacturing are result of the change in sequence of priority of stations on the machine. In here two stations has been shown as examples of any number of stations that can be combined and adapted for manufacturing of present invention. If the pouch is moving in direction of arrow 373 that means initially the fitment 72 which is symbol of all other fitments of present invention is attached to the pouch 15 as its held open by 377. If the pouch is moving in direction of arrow 374 that means initially the pouch 15 is filled and then moved to the next station by 376 to be equipped with relevant fitments.
[0121] Referring now to FIG. 25, a diagram is shown illustrating examples of filling and attachments of fitments of present invention by a rotary machine to the premade pouch or as part of FFS. In this figure two possible manufacturing methods is shown. These are examples of how other attachments and stages of production of present invention can be combined. The two methods of manufacturing are result of the change in sequence of priority of stations on the machine. In here two stations has been shown as examples of any number of stations that can be combined and adapted for manufacturing of present invention. If the machine is revolving in direction of arrow 383 that means initially the fitment 72 which is symbol of all other fitments of present invention is attached to the pouch 15 as its held open by 387. If the machine is revolving in direction of arrow 384 that means initially the pouch 15 is filled by 388 and then moved to the next station by clamp/jaw/arm 386 to be equipped with relevant fitments.
[0122] Referring now to FIG. 26, a diagram is shown illustrating an example of methods for attaching/sealing the spout to a foil or other components of packaging that is disclosed in present invention. For instance, the embodiment that is shown in FIG. 30 can be made by application of this method. Accordingly, the part 72 can be the film/foil for either the spout holder or the pouch or any other combinations. In here spouts 17 are stacked 461 over each other and moving in direction shown by arrow 463 to be fed into spaces 464 on the rotating wheel 465 which is revolving in the direction shown by arrow 466. Consequently, each spout 17 is attached to the foil 72 preferably by help of sealing jaw 469 which is moving back and forth in the direction shown by arrow 460. The sealing jaw 469 can act is heat bar to apply the appropriate temperature and pressure in case of heat sealing the film to the spout. The foil 72 can be provided in the form of roll 4671 which can be unwind as it rotates in the direction shown by arrow 468. In case of utilising heat-sealing as of attachment method, preferably the spout 17 or/and the film 72 can be made of multi layers as such that the layer(s) closer to the sealing point melt easier (lower melting point) than layer(s) closer to sealing jaw. Another example of considerations for enhancement of sealing the fitments and films together is: the spout 17 or/and film 72 can be pre heated to improve the sealing. Although, in here only one sealing jaw 469 is shown as example but it shouldn't be comprehended that the manufacturing of present invention is limited to application of only one sealing jaw, since other jaw or similar mechanism might be needed for purposes like cooling the material quickly after the heat sealing or applying pressure before it. The material for spout and other fitments of present invention should be chosen by taking into consideration the manufacturing of the packaging as well as the functions of the spout/fitment itself. For example, the material for spout/straw shouldn't be so soft that result in difficult piercing or too dense that result in difficulty for sealing in case of heat seal.
[0123] Referring now to FIG. 27, multiple diagrams are shown illustrating some examples of transportation and guiding systems for spouts and foils and mechanisms that facilitate the handling of foil during the manufacturing of the present invention; for example, feeding of the spout to the pouch as shown in other figures or other similar methods. In here holes 481 are located on spout holder (foil) 72. Sprocket 485 is rotating in direction of arrow 484 to engage its teeth with holes 481 to move the film 72 in direction of arrow 486. If it's needed to make the guiding and transportation process more stable, part/pin 487 can move in direction of arrow 488 to be engaged with hole 481 to preferably stretch the foil 72 as such to be ready for sealing process. Another example of stabilisation method is to use the handle/lever 489 to secure (push down) the spout 17 and consequently stretch the foil 72.
[0124] Referring now to FIG. 28, a diagram is shown illustrating an example of attachment of spout/straw to the foil of spout holder. In here spout 15 has been passed through the foil 72 and is sealed/attached to it at location 493.
[0125] Referring now to FIG. 29, illustrating an example of stages of user interaction with present invention for opening the container 15. As the user pushes the bottom part of the spout 14, the spout 17 pierces through the pierceable spot 16 and opens up the container. In here, the bottom part of the spout 14 has a diameter which is larger than pierceable spot 16, this prevents the spout 17 from fully leaving the container 15.
[0126] Referring now to FIG. 30, a diagram is shown illustrating a variation of the present invention where written instructions 310 on the container 15 is provided to guide the user about how to open the container 15.
[0127] Referring now to FIG. 31, a diagram is shown illustrating some variations of spout that can be used for the present invention.
[0128] Referring now to FIG. 32, a diagram is shown illustrating some variations of container that can be used for the present invention.
[0129] For the present invention in here the container shown as a common shape of juice/milk boxes/pouches, however the shape is not limited to this, and it can be of multiple shapes or forms etc. The straw/tube can also be of different forms or variations for example simple straight straw, corrugated, U-straw and etc. And also, for other parts of the present invention variations exist as mentioned before but not limited to them.
[0130] For the present invention in here the container shown as a common shape of containers like boxes/pouches/bottle, however the shape is not limited to this, and it can be of multiple shapes or forms etc.
[0131] The present invention could be interesting for kids as it does create a feeling as unwrapping a gift or create the sense of curiosity. To enhance on that, some gamification such as different colours of spout or straw can be used and then the user can guess the colour of straw and then see if he/she was right after the straw came out of the container.
[0132] This detailed and specific description refer to the accompanying drawing. The drawings and specific descriptions of the drawings, as well as any specific or alternative embodiments discussed, are intended to be read in conjunction with the entirety of this disclosure. The CONTAINER WITH INTEGRATED TUBE may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of illustration only and so that this disclosure will be thorough, complete and fully convey understanding to those skilled in the art.
[0133] Different features, variations and multiple different embodiments have been shown and described with various details. What has been described in this application at times in terms of specific embodiments is done for illustrative purposes only and without the intent to limit or suggest that what has been conceived is only one particular embodiment or specific embodiments. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to any single specific embodiments or enumerated variations. Many modifications, variations and other embodiments will come to mind of those skilled in the art, and which are intended to be and are in fact covered by this disclosure. It is indeed intended that the scope of this disclosure should be determined by a proper legal interpretation and construction of the disclosure, including equivalents, as understood by those of skill in the art relying upon the complete disclosure present at the time of filing.
[0134] The invention has now been described in detail for purposes of clarity and understanding. However, it will be appreciated that certain changes and modifications may be practiced within the scope of the specification. Accordingly, it should be recognized that many other systems, functions, methods, and combinations thereof are possible in accordance with the present invention. Thus, although the invention is described with reference to specific embodiments and figures thereof, the embodiments and figures are merely illustrative, and not limiting of the invention.
