Abstract: A packaging of compressed bales (1) includes packaging (11) surrounding the compressed bale. The compressed bale is formed from highly compressed, preferably short-cut, textile fibers and has mutually opposite pressing sides (5, 6), which are acted upon by a pressing device (32) in a pressing direction (10), and circumferential sides (7, 8), which are arranged between the pressing sides. The packaging has multipart film packaging (12) resting on the bale body (4) and first strapping (22) with a plurality of parallel endless bands (23) that are laid over the pressing sides of the compressed bale. An additional strapping (25) having a plurality of endless strapping bands (26, 27) are applied to the compressed bale. The strapping bands are laid peripherally only over the circumferential sides and are arranged externally on the film packaging and on the bands. The strapping bands cross the bands, forming cross strapping (21).

Abstract: A package for a point of sale card that includes a first panel, a second panel coupled to the first panel by an activatable adhesive applied to one of the first panel or the second panel, and a card enclosure region defined between the first panel and the second panel, the card enclosure region configured to receive a point of sale card therein. The activatable adhesive is selectively activated along a perimeter surrounding the card enclosure region to secure the first panel and the second panel together at the perimeter and prevent access to the card enclosure region without irreparable damage to the first panel or the second panel.

Abstract: [Problem] To provide a decorating powder composition for decorating the surface of a solid cosmetic material, in particular, for obtaining a solid cosmetic material having a beautiful appearance which is decorated with a glossy powder, and a decorating method using the decorating powder composition. [Solution] Provided are a decorating powder composition including a glossy powder which has been surface-treated with a silane compound or a silazane compound, and a method for decorating a solid cosmetic material, the method including causing the decorating powder composition to adhere to a printing plate and then bringing the printing plate into contact with a surface of the solid cosmetic material to transfer the decorating powder composition to the surface of the solid cosmetic material and decorate the solid cosmetic material.

Abstract: A load unit (700) of material for forming a structural component made from layers of a fiber reinforced material, the load unit (700) comprising a pallet (704) and a single layer of rolls of fiber reinforced material (702).

Abstract: A vertical form, fill, and seal (VFFS) machine and method for producing an oral sachet designed to be placed in a users mouth, the oral sachet. The oral sachet includes permeable paper that does not contain fiberglass. The permeable paper forms a pouch that includes a top seal arranged at first end of the pouch, a bottom seal arranged at a second end of the pouch opposite from the first end, a vertical seal that extends from the top seal to the bottom seal, and a cavity located between the top seal and the bottom seal. Granular contents, including at least one granular or powdered component, are arranged within the cavity of the permeable-paper pouch.

Abstract: A compaction station and method with a compacting device for compacting open-mouth bags filled with bulk materials includes a container with a tubular inner wall and a takeup space for taking up a filled open-mouth bag, and a support unit on a height-displaceable lifting device, wherein when the lifting device is in a lowered position the support unit is supported from beneath and when in an elevated position, it is suitable to take over a filled open-mouth bag from an adjacent conveyor device. A pressure plug that can be lowered from above is included which, when in a lowered position acts on the bulk material from above, and in an elevated position allows takeover of a filled open-mouth bag from an adjacent conveyor device.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for material handling in an order fulfillment center. Embodiments may include one or more flexible, modular processing modules that may be configured to receive one or more inventory items that are to be processed for shipment. The received inventory items may correspond to single-item customer orders, or to multi-item customer orders. A pre-packaging station of the processing module may be configured to receive the one or more inventory items and to perform pre-packaging operations to produce a pre-packaged unit. The pre-packaged unit may include the one or more inventory items and a pre-packaging substrate. The processing module may also include an inspection station configured to automatically verifying one or more dimensions of the pre-packaged unit. The processing module may further include a packaging station configured to perform packaging operations to produce a packaged unit.

Abstract: A VFFS bag is provided that is dimensionally stable, aesthetically pleasing, and renders items stored in it highly visible. The bag includes first and second gusseted side walls that span a depth of the bag and front and rear walls that span a width of the bag. The bag has a substantially rectangular closed bottom end. In order to maximize the viewabilty of stored items and reduce the amount of film material in the bag, the bag has a depth to width ratio of at least 1.5:1 at the bottom of the bag. Stability is enhanced by sizing the gussets such that they closely approach but do not overlap a line longitudinally bisecting the bag. A VFFS machine and its method of operation also are disclosed.

Abstract: A can filling process, the process comprising providing a metal can body (1) having first and second ends, the second end being closed by a peelable lid (2), and supporting the can body (1) from beneath the peelable lid including presenting to the peelable lid a support surface having a pattern embossed thereon. The can body is filled with a product through said first end using a compacting ram such that the peelable lid is pressed against the support surface (3) by the product and said pattern is impressed into the peelable lid (2), and a closure applied to said first end.

Abstract: A device is provided for collapsing a stented bioprosthetic valve, including first section and second sections, each spanning between first and second ends of the device. The second section of the device is associated with the first section to at least partially enclose an internal cavity formed by the first and second sections, the internal cavity tapering from an open insertion portion at a first end of the device to an open exit portion at a second end of the device. The insertion portion has a larger dimension than the exit portion. When the first section and second section are substantially enclosing the internal cavity, a stented bioprosthetic valve may be inserted into the insertion portion and collapsed as it is moved toward and through the exit portion. The valve may then be loaded on an apparatus for insertion into the body.

Abstract: A method for compression packaging of a compressible product within a product packaging for commercial distribution and sale includes compressing a compressible product within the product packaging and zipping a gusset located in a sidewall of the product packaging to thereby maintain the compressible product in a compressed condition during commercial distribution and sale. The product packaging includes a base and peripheral sidewall that define an interior containment space in which the compressible product is received. A zipper is located along the peripheral sidewall and secures a gusset in the sidewall when zipped up with the product packaging in a compressed condition. Another zipper is used to secure a lid of the product packaging. The product may be decompressed without opening the product packaging by unzipping the second zipper.

Abstract: The aim of the invention is to transform an initial packaging consisting of a flexible material such as roll film and sealed by at least two welded joints with a liquid substance inside, into a packaging having a cubic shape with at least three faces. The method and installation using a machine comprise the following steps: 1—the initial packaging is blocked and immobilised by means of subjection clamps which maintain a constant pressure at all times, towards the inside of the initial packaging, but with regulatable damping; 2—an impact clamp (6) hits any of the perimeter lateral side or sides of the initial packaging head-on, so that the packaging inflates, thereby taking on the cubic shape, and the flaps are created; and 3—the flaps are then sealed and cut. The most significant advantages of the invention are that very small cubic packagings can be produced, and at the same time the logistical costs are reduced as a result of the absence of flaps.

Abstract: A container handling machine is disclosed. The machine includes at least one operative unit comprising support means to support a shaped container, and a plunger selectively moved along a given axis to deform a base of the container from a first swollen configuration to a second configuration, in which the base is in part retracted inwardly of the container with respect to the first configuration so as to form a recess delimited by a boundary surface defining an internal volume of the container smaller than that in the first configuration. The plunger is provided with a shaped head interacting with the container base and comprising: first engaging means; and an interacting surface.

Abstract: A film-supporting device is used with a waste-disposal unit. The device comprises an annular body. The annular body has an annular wall. The inward radial surface of the wall defines a central opening of the body. The outline of the central opening in a transverse plane of the device has variable diametrical dimensions with a first diameter of greater dimension than the second diameter. The outline has two of the first diameter of generally equal dimension and two of the second diameter of generally equal dimension. The device has tubular film about an outward radial surface of the annular body. A free annular end is dispensed outwardly from the annular wall. The free annular end is closed to form a bag. The opening of the bag is accessible through the central opening and is of optimized shape via the central opening for the disposal of waste. A method for disposing of waste on a scooping tool is also provided.

Abstract: A method of forming a vacuum packed compressed netting sleeve for in situ formation of a compost filter sock comprises the steps of: providing a sleeve of netting material having at least one open end; bunching the sleeve of netting material primarily along a longitudinal axis, whereby each open end of the netting material remains accessible to form a compression bundle netting material; placing the compression bundle netting material in a sealable weatherproof bag; drawing a vacuum in the bag to compress the compression bundle netting material; and sealing the bag. A mechanical fastener capable of securing a compression bundle netting sleeve in position may be provided within in the bag. The bag may efficiently store remnants of the netting sleeve at the end of given manufacturing runs.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement are disclosed for providing an implant for implantation in a body lumen, that include at least one processing unit (1) for processing the implant (7; 103), a sheathing (2) with a front opening (3) and a rear opening (4), which is at least partially disposed at or in the processing unit (1), and at least one power unit (5). The implant (7; 103) can be stored inside the sheathing (2) between the openings (3, 4). The power unit (5) serves for generation of a current (P) of a defined medium through the sheathing (2), which is connected at least to one opening (3; 4) of the sheathing (2), whereby the current (P) flows inside the sheathing (2) with the stent (7; 103).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for packing an aircraft evacuation slide is disclosed. The apparatus includes a bottom plate for receiving a section of the aircraft evacuation slide and a top plate configured to apply a pressure and or temperature to the received section to form a fold in the received section. The apparatus is provided in a substantially open configuration and a section of the aircraft evacuation slide is placed on the first plate. The apparatus is closed to sandwich the section of the aircraft evacuation slide between the first plate and the second plate to create a fold useful for packing the aircraft evacuation slide. The compression also may remove wrinkles, thereby allowing the aircraft evacuation slide to be packed into a smaller space.

Abstract: A machine for making bio logs includes a conduit with a feed opening along a top side and a chamber below the feed opening. A door over the feed opening is movable between open and closed positions by a first piston connected to the door. A plunger disposed within the conduit is movable between a retracted position and an extended position by a second piston connected to the plunger. A method of making bio logs includes retracting the first piston to move the door to the open position, retracting the second piston to move the piston to the retracted position, disposing a quantity of filling material into the chamber, extending the first piston to move the door to the closed position, and extending the second piston to move the plunger to the extended position.

Abstract: A system and method for injecting pressurizing fluid into a filled and sealed container is provided. The container is filled with a product and is then sealed with a closure. A pressurizing fluid is injected through the closure into the container cavity after sealing and filling.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, and method for managing recyclable materials are disclosed. In one embodiment, an apparatus is described, the apparatus comprising an inlet port for receiving the recyclable materials, a tube connected to the inlet port, an outlet port as part of the tube for expelling the recyclable materials, a screw blade mounted inside the tube and the inlet port along a tube longitudinal axis for moving the recyclable materials through the inlet port, the tube, and the outlet port, a motor coupled to the screw blade for rotating the screw blade, thereby moving the recyclable materials through the apparatus, and a receptacle installed onto the outlet port for receiving the recyclable materials.

Abstract: Packaging material may be profiled to generate an incremental containment force per revolution (ICF) attribute that is represented by a function that is variable as a function of wrap force. Moreover, the performance of different packaging materials, e.g., in terms of speed or cost, may be compared for a particular load through simulation of wrap operations based upon dimensions of the load and a desired load containment force requirement for the load.

Abstract: Control of a wrapping apparatus is facilitated by enabling an operator to input a load containment force requirement and/or a minimum number of layers of packaging material to be applied to a load, with a wrap control system automatically determining wrap force and other parameters required to meet user input requirements and/or parameters to minimize the expertise required of an operator and to provide more consistent and reliable wrapping of loads. In addition, a wrapping apparatus may be controlled to apply at least a minimum number of layers of packaging material to a load throughout a contiguous region thereof.

Abstract: A package for bedding includes a blank of material formed into a loop, the loop having an enclosed top side, an enclosed bottom side, first and second enclosed lateral sides extending between the enclosed top side and the enclosed bottom side, a first openings at a first end of the loop, and a second opening at a second end of the loop. A section of the enclosed top side is joined together to form handle that extends along a top side of the loop between the first opening at the first end of the loop and the second opening at the second end of the loop. The package has a central opening defined by the enclosed top side, the enclosed bottom side, and the first and second enclosed lateral sides of the loop, the central opening extending from the first opening at the first end of the loop to the second opening at the second end of the loop. A box is disposed within the central opening of the loop.

Abstract: A towel is formed by hydro-entanglement of an isotropic web formed of predominantly rayon. The towel comprises a surface texture formed during hydroentangling. The towel is compacted into a cake or disk shape for distribution. The cake or disk shape can expand when exposed to moisture such that the towel recovers to substantially the original dimensions and texture.

Abstract: A device for filling and compacting pourable products is proposed, comprising: —at least one product feed (16) for feeding a pourable product to a container (12) that is to be filled, —at least one ram (14) for compacting the product supplied to the container (10), characterized by means for applying a predetermined force to the ram (14) and for detecting the force acting on the ram.

Abstract: A wrapping system for plant material utilizes a first wrapping material dispenser disposed along a first upper periphery of a compacting chamber, and a second wrapping material dispenser opposite the first dispenser, for automatically dispensing sheets of wrapping material in overlapping relation over the chamber and plant material therein. The system includes apparatus for joining the overlapping sheets together. The system is automatically operable to dispense sheets of the material in overlapping relation over the chamber and join them for receiving a flow of the plant material thereon. Before or while the plant material is received, the sheets are further dispensed to move downwardly in the chamber to receive and wrap about the plant material. The system then dispenses opposite ends of the sheets in overlapping relation over the material and joins the ends to complete the wrapper.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of vacuum packaging and vacuum packaging techniques. Embodiments of the present invention include bales and packages comprising a sealed chamber having an internal volume at a pressure less than ambient atmospheric pressure. In alternate embodiments of the present invention, the internal volume of the package comprises a bulk material, a bulk fiber material, fibers or fibrous materials. Also disclosed are methods for packaging, packaging systems and apparatus for packaging.

Abstract: The present inventive concept(s) relates, in general, to articles that are packaged in a compressed state relative to an uncompressed fully articulated state and methods of making and using same. In a specific embodiment, but not to be considered as limiting, the articles so packaged in a compressed state are plant covers that are either substantially rigid and/or substantially flexible.

Abstract: A hot-fill PET container or bottle (10) filling with a liquid at an elevated temperature has a side wall (9) extending to a lower portion including a pressure panel (11) and a base (21) in its unfolded or pre-fill position. The panel (11) is transversely oriented and has a decoupling or hinge structure (13), an initiator portion (1) and control portion (5) of a steeply angled inverting conical section between 30 and 45 degrees. The control portion enables the inversion of the panel (11) into the container (10) to compensate for vacuum or reduced pressure induced within the container as the liquid cools down. The base (2) can also have a plurality of reinforcing ribs (3).

Abstract: A method for containing a bale of compressible material includes compressing the bale of compressible material to form a compressed bale having a plurality of grooves in at least one side thereof. The grooves are recessed from an outer surface of the compressed bale. The compressed bale is transferred to a flexible container. The container conforms to a shape of the compressed bale such that at least some portions of the flexible container take the shape of the grooves to define container portions recessed from the outer surface of the compressed bale. A containerized bale made by the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method to hold a patterning device configured to impart a beam of radiation with a pattern in its cross-section. The apparatus includes a base configured to support the patterning device and an inner cover couplable to the base. The inner cover includes a restraining mechanism that, upon an application of a force external to the inner cover, is configured to provide an in-plane force to the patterning device to restrain movement of the patterning device, the in-plane force being substantially parallel to a patterning surface of the patterning device.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for subdividing a fed tubular packaging sleeve into packaging units, having two displacer groups which are intended for constricting the tubular packaging sleeve, it being possible for the rear displacer group, as seen in respect of the movement of the tubular packaging sleeve, to be moved in the longitudinal direction of the tubular packaging sleeve, and the apparatus comprises a supporting element which is connected to the rear displacer group and is intended for supporting the tubular packaging sleeve. The supporting element allows the tubular packaging sleeve to be transported away reliably.

Abstract: Decorative elements and decorative grass are disclosed that are provided with a substantially flat configuration which, upon activation, can assume a curled or crimped configuration at the point of sale or point of use. Methods for producing the same are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for filling and/or tamping product in a container is disclosed herein. More specifically, the present disclosure is related to a device for filling a container with a material including a conduit comprising a top opening and a bottom opening, and a tamper integrally coupled to the conduit. The tamping face may be configured to move in a straight path along the axis normal to the plane of the bottom opening from the second position to a third position. The shape of the perimeter of the tamping face may be configured to mirror the internal shape of a provided container.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of vacuum packaging and vacuum packaging techniques. Embodiments of the present invention include bales and packages comprising a sealed chamber having an internal volume at a pressure less than ambient atmospheric pressure. In alternate embodiments of the present invention, the internal volume of the package comprises a bulk material, a bulk fiber material, fibers or fibrous materials. Also disclosed are methods for packaging, packaging systems and apparatus for packaging.

Abstract: An apparatus for tamping the contents of a container having a bottom surface prone to bending and/or cracking during tamping. The apparatus includes a tamp head for tamping the contents of the container; and a container support assembly structured and arranged to temporarily support the bottom surface of the container during tamping, the container support assembly comprising a support element having a protrusion extending upward from a substantially flat and horizontal upper surface, wherein the protrusion is sized and shaped to correspond to the size and shape of the bottom surface of the container.

Abstract: The invention relates to a low friction gliding plate designed to optimize the process of packing at least one compressible object, such as insulation material, in continuous foil. In addition the present invention relates to a method for using a low friction gliding plate in packaging at least one compressible object.

Abstract: A method for reducing a cushion footprint for long-term storage may include inserting a foam core into a plastic cover, subsequently applying a vacuum to the plastic cover, and, while under the vacuum effect, sealing the plastic cover, and its contents. A device providing the vacuum effect may include a surface having protruding sections connected to non-protruding sections via tapered sections. A cushion may include an at least 20 density high resiliency foam core, and a fabric cover that includes (a) a combination of polyester and spandex and/or lycra, (b) nylon to which a thin water resistant material coating is applied, and/or (c) polyester fabric including raised anti-slip polyvinyl chloride dots, other portions of the polyester fabric at which the dots are not positioned having applied thereto a polyvinyl chloride coating. The device may compress the foam core while housed in a fabric cover, housed in the plastic cover.

Abstract: A biodegradable component for a package for storing and dispensing a cosmetic product or a beauty care product made from compressed fibrous biomass bound by a cosmetically compatible and compostable binder is filled by adhering the product to at least one surface of the component.

Abstract: A system for collecting and compressing waste collected in a medical or surgical procedure. The system includes a bag for collecting the waste that is seated on a mobile cart. Once the waste is collected the bag is closed and, while on the cart, transported to a compactor. While on the cart, the bag is compacted. Air in the bag is discharged through a one-way valve fitted to the bag. The one way valve may be attached to a cartridge that is inserted into the bag opening. The air discharged from the bag is filtered prior to discharge into the ambient environment. The filter may be built into the one-way valve.

Abstract: A packaging component for use with an article includes a panel having a first shell with a first surface facing the exterior of the package and a first opposing, spaced apart inward-facing surface. The first shell defines a first cavity. The panel further includes a first core situated in the first cavity wherein the first core includes a plurality of in-situ expanded polymer particles.

Abstract: A method for containing a bale of compressible material without straps or wires includes compressing a quantity of compressible material into a bale and introducing the bale of compressed material into a container in the compressed state. The container can be sealed following receipt of the bale. A baler can be used with a press for compressing the material, and a bagging station can facilitate transfer of the bale to the container without straps or wires securing the bale following compression.

Abstract: A system for providing single portion viscous or semi-viscous food products utilizes an indexing conveyor to serially dispense pieces of top packaging material thereon, deliver a precise volume of the single serve food product, deposit a top packaging material piece thereon, press the sandwiched layer together to form the final shape of the food product and, optionally, heat seal the top and bottom material pieces to enclose the food product. Optional system layouts include cooling and/or oxygen depleted zones and multiple lane operation and serially adjacent rows of system components wherein the indexing conveyor moves forward by two increments at each indexing cycle.

Abstract: A uniformly premixed sealant is extruded into a packaging form and allowed to pressure equilibrate prior to freezing. Upon warming the sealant begins to cure. The storage of the preformed sealant formulation under cold conditions arrests the activity of cure catalysts and accelerators mixed therethrough. The sealant is readily extruded into a preform shape containing a lightweight filler. A release film is provided to avoid contact with the sealant preformed in a shape during application to a substrate.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a dynamic bioactive bone graft material and a method of handling the material to prepare an implant. In one embodiment, a method of preparing a dynamic bioactive bone graft implant is provided. The method includes the step of providing a porous, fibrous composition of bioactive glass fibers, wherein the fibers are characterized by fiber diameters ranging from about 5 nanometers to about 100 micrometers, and wherein the porosity of the matrix ranges from about 100 nanometers to about 1 millimeter. The porous, fibrous composition is introduced into a mold tray, and a shaped implant is created using the mold tray. The composition may be wetted with a fluid such as saline or a naturally occurring body fluid like blood prior to creating the shaped implant. In another embodiment, the porous, fibrous composition is provided with the mold tray as a kit.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a packaging machine includes a mechanism for compressing one or more sides of the bag to expel excess air from an open top end of the bag. In one embodiment, a packaging machine supports a top portion of a bag and a bottom portion of the bag, such that the bottom portion of the bag is moved closer to the top portion of the bag as the bag is moved from a first location to a second location. The bags may be supported from below such that additional support is provided during compression of the bag to remove excess air.

Abstract: A method of retaining a longitudinally compressed flexible duct, the method includes removing at least one retaining strap from extending longitudinally about a flexible container retaining a longitudinally compressed flexible duct having a first end and a second end within the flexible container, the retaining strap extending about a first end and a second end of the flexible container. The method further includes securing a choker about a circumference transverse to the longitudinally compressed flexible duct and the flexible container to circumferentially compress a portion of the longitudinally compressed flexible duct at a position intermediate of the first end and the second end of the longitudinally compressed flexible duct.

Abstract: A battery pack includes a plurality of battery cells configured to generate an electrical current from an electrochemical reaction and a battery tray. The battery tray includes a channel formed from a plurality of walls. The channel is configured to receive at least a portion of the battery cells therein and permits at least an axial translation of the battery cells in respect of a longitudinal axis of the battery tray to accommodate an expansion and a contraction of the battery cells during an operation of the battery pack.

Abstract: A medical device package includes an elongate tubular holder having a first and a second detachable tip, and a medical device positioned within a cavity and contained within the holder via the first and second detachable tips. The medical device has a self-shaping bias and is loaded in opposition to the bias via contact with an inner surface of the holder defining the cavity. The first and second detachable tips may include snap-off tips, such that upon detachment the cavity is opened for removing the medical device. Related methodology is disclosed.

Abstract: A package has a transport/storage state for storing powdery material which is to be mixed with a solvent to form a medical solution. The package includes a compartment which is at least partially defined by two opposing wall portions, and a connector. In the transport/storage state, the compartment contains the powdery material in the form of at least two distinct sets of powdery material of different compositions, where the opposing wall portions are brought into engagement with the powdery material so as to immobilize the sets of powdery material. When used for preparation of the medical solution, a fluid is selectively admitted into the package via the connector so as to expand the compartment and enable mixing of the sets of powdery material with the solvent in the compartment.