RESEALABLE VACUUM CONTAINERS AND SEALING TOOLS

Abstract

In an aspect of the invention, a resealable vacuum bag is provided that is configured to stand upright when a storage compartment of the resealable vacuum bag is under vacuum. In preferable embodiments of the invention, the resealable vacuum bag includes a sealing member that is configured to seal (or close) the resealable bag prior to the application of vacuum. Vacuum is applied to the storage compartment through a vacuum member in fluid communication with the storage compartment at a vacuum application area of the resealable bag. A filtering member may be provided to prevent fine material (e.g., grains, powders) from entering the vacuum member during the application of vacuum to the storage compartment. In another aspect of the invention, a resealable vacuum bag having one or more filters is provided. In yet another aspect of the invention, a vacuum bag having a spout is provided.

Description

The present invention claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos. 61/182,596, filed on May 29, 2009, and 61/300,644, filed on Feb. 2, 2010, which are entirely incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to vacuum containers, more particularly to resealable and reusable vacuum containers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Vacuum storage containers can be used to preserve items in an environment from which all or most of the fluid in the container, typically air, has been removed. Storing food in a vacuum-sealed bag, for example, may help preserve flavor, may make food last longer, and may prevent freezer burn. Items other than food can also be kept in vacuum storage bags or containers. For instance, articles of clothing, flower seeds and matches can be stored in evacuated containers and kept secure from external elements. Photos and other documents may also be protected and preserved.

Vacuum bags are also beneficial for compressible items. When air is removed from a bag in which a compressible item is placed, the stored item may be significantly compressed so that it is easier to transport, the storage of which requiring substantially less space.

Vacuum storage bags can be divided into single-use vacuum storage bags and multiple or multi-use vacuum storage bags. Single-use bags are typically used in industrial settings and home kitchens. For the industrial settings, products are typically sealed in a vacuum pouch or bag for transport and storage. After a single use, these single-use vacuum bags are typically discarded. While some industrial vacuum pouches now come with a resealable (or reclosable) feature, the bags are discarded when the consumer is finished with using the contents therein. For home kitchen use, leftovers and other foodstuffs can be placed in a vacuum bag, the bag is sealed and subsequently evacuated. When the leftovers are desired for use, the vacuum bag is cut open. Any additional, unused leftovers are stored in a new bag.

Multiple-use vacuum storage bags are becoming more popular and are currently mainly used by consumers for storing items such as food or compressible household products (i.e., towels, pillows, etc) to save space.

Single use vacuum storage bags, such as the bag disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 5,048,269, which is entirely incorporated herein by reference, evacuate air from the bag via an opening through which an item is placed in the bag. Once a desired vacuum is created in the bag, the bag is permanently sealed. The bag is cut open to access the item inside the bag. To accomplish the sealing, vacuum machines may require extra material around the opening in which the item is inserted to allow for proper sealing. If the user wants to reuse the bag, air is evacuated through a new opening and, if possible, permanently sealed again. However, the bag becomes smaller each time it is cut open, evacuated and resealed. Eventually, the bag becomes substantially small for further use and must be discarded. This results in considerable waste of material and money.

There are examples of reclosable (also “resealable” herein) storage bags available in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,932,509 to Shah et al. (“Shah”), which is entirely incorporated herein by reference, teaches a reclosable storage bag including first and second sides having closed sides and an open top. The storage bag of Shah can also include primary closure members proximate the top, with secondary closure elements being provided around an aperture in at least one of the sides to enable gas to be evacuated from the bag after the primary closure members are closed.

As another example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,290,660 to Tilman et al. (“Tilman”), which is entirely incorporated herein by reference, provides a storage system having a storage device with at least one polymeric sheet sealed along a portion of its periphery to provide an opening to a storage space. Tilman also teaches a resealable closure structure adapted to seal the opening to the storage space, the resealable closure structure comprising selectively engaging male and female profiles and a sealing compound comprising liquid silicone and at least one filler in proportions suitable for at least incidental contact to food items contained within the storage space. The storage system of Tilman further includes a vacuum valve assembly disposed on the polymeric sheet and a stand-off structure disposed adjacent the vacuum valve assembly, wherein the stand-off structure has a series of raised surfaces facing the vacuum valve assembly. The storage system of Tilman further includes a portable vacuum pump assembly structured to engage the vacuum valve assembly and a liquid separator assembly coupled to the portable vacuum pump assembly.

As another example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,604,634 to Su (“Su”), which is entirely incorporated herein by reference, teaches a vacuum-receiving bag formed by a bag body, a sealing edge installed at an opening of the bag body and an airtight valve at a selected position of the bag body. When the plug cover of the airtight valve of Su is pressed by hand, the airtight valve will conduct air so that air in the bag body will be absorbed and thus the bag will approach to vacuum state. Su teaches that after the air absorbing tube is taken away, the airtight valve will close automatically. Su further teaches that the airtight valve can be used with an air tap, which enables an operator to operate a pump manually to achieve the object of absorbing air. Su teaches that the sealing edge at the opening of the bag body is formed by two matched seal strips, which provides a preferred air seal effect.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an aspect of the invention, a resealable (also “reclosable” herein) vacuum container is provided. The resealable vacuum container comprises a storage compartment for holding one or more items and a sealing member configured to isolate the container from the external environment. The resealable vacuum container further comprises a lower portion comprising a first wall and second wall, the first wall and the second wall defining a cavity in the lower portion, wherein the cavity is isolated from the storage compartment along a bottom portion of the storage compartment. In an embodiment, the sealing member is disposed in an upper portion of the resealable vacuum container.

In another aspect of the invention, a reclosable vacuum container is provided. The reclosable vacuum container comprises a storage compartment for holding one or more items and an upper portion comprising a sealing member configured to isolate the container from the external environment. The reclosable vacuum container further comprises a lower portion comprising a first wall and second wall, the first wall and the second wall defining a cavity in the lower portion, wherein the cavity is isolated from the storage compartment along a bottom portion of the storage compartment, and wherein the first wall and the second wall are configured to permit the reclosable vacuum container to stand upright when vacuum is applied to the storage compartment. The reclosable vacuum container further comprises a vacuum application area comprising a vacuum member, the vacuum member in fluid communication with the storage compartment, the vacuum member configured to bring the storage compartment under vacuum.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a sealing tool for closing a sealing member of a vacuum container (e.g., reclosable vacuum container) is provided, the sealing tool comprising a slit with opposing sidewalls, each of the sidewalls configured to come in contact with a portion of the sealing member of the vacuum container; a hollowed-out rear portion; and one or more holes adjacent the opposing sidewalls of the slit.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent reference was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood from the Detailed Description of the Invention and from the appended drawings, which are meant to illustrate and not to limit the invention.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a resealable bag having a bottom portion, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 shows a resealable bag having a bottom portion and a vacuum application area having a vacuum member, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3A shows a portion of a resealable bag comprising a sealing member, a vacuum application area and a one-way vacuum member that is disposed on the vacuum application area, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 3B shows a vacuum source in fluid communication with a storage compartment of the resealable bag of FIG. 3A via the vacuum member, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4A shows a resealable bag in an upright configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 4B is a bottom view of the resealable bag of FIG. 4A, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a resealable bag having a vacuum application area disposed at the bottom of the resealable bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a resealable bag having a vacuum application area disposed at a right side of the resealable bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7A shows reclosable vacuum bag having a spout, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 7B shows the reclosable vacuum bag of FIG. 7A with the spout in an extended configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate a sealing tool configured to close the sealing member of the reclosable vacuum bag, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While preferable embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein can be employed in practicing the invention.

In an aspect of the invention, a resealable (or reclosable) vacuum bag (also “resealable bag”, “resealable storage apparatus” and “resealable vacuum container” herein) is provided that is configured to stand upright when vacuum is applied to a storage compartment of the resealable bag. The resealable bag includes a sealing member that is configured to seal (or close) the resealable bag. In an embodiment, the sealing member can be closed prior to the application of vacuum to the resealable bag. The sealing member seals the contents of the resealable bag from the external environment. In an embodiment, the sealing member hermetically seals the contents of the bag from the external environment. Vacuum is applied to the resealable through a vacuum member in fluid communication with the storage compartment of the resealable bag at a vacuum application area of the resealable bag.

In another aspect of the invention, a sealing tool (also “sealer” herein) is provided for aiding in closing the resealable bag. In an embodiment, the sealing tool closes the resealable bag by applying pressure to opposing portions of the sealing member of the resealable bag. In an embodiment, a user may use the sealing tool to close the sealing member of the resealable bag. The sealing tool may be configured to be readily held and gripped by a user.

Resealable Vacuum Bags Configured to Stand Upright

In an aspect of the invention, a resealable vacuum bag is provided that is configured to stand upright when a storage compartment of the resealable bag is under vacuum. The resealable bag of preferable embodiments may enable a user to place one or more items in the bag, apply vacuum to the bag and store the bag upright (or vertically in relation to a surface) at a storage location. When one or more items of the bag are desired, the user can open the bag using the sealing member, take out one or more items, reseal the bag and apply vacuum to the bag. The user can then store the bag upright.

Reference will now be made to the figures, wherein like numerals refer to like parts throughout. It will be appreciated that the figures (and structures therein) are not necessarily drawn to scale.

FIG. 1 shows a resealable bag (also “bag” herein) 100 configured to stand upright. In an embodiment, the bag 100 is configured to stand upright on a horizontal surface (e.g., desk surface, countertop). In an embodiment, the bag (or container) 100 is configured to stand upright before and after vacuum is applied to the bag 100. In another embodiment, the bag 100 is configured to stand upright after vacuum is applied to the bag 100. The bag 100 comprises a sealing member 110, a storage compartment 120 and a bottom portion (also “lower portion” herein) 130 comprising a first wall 140 and second wall 150. The sealing member is disposed in an upper (or top) portion of the bag 100. The first wall 140 and second wall 150 define a cavity 155 in the lower portion 130. The storage compartment 120 is configured to hold (or contain) one or more items, such as, e.g., food items, mechanical items, or chemicals. When vacuum is applied to the bag 100, gas (e.g., air) is removed from the storage compartment 120. The sealing member 110 seals the storage compartment 120 from the external environment. This advantageously enables a user to hold one or more items (e.g., food items) in storage for a period of time as desired or predetermined. In an embodiment, a user can store one or more items in the storage compartment 120, isolate the storage compartment 120 from the external environment by closing the sealing member 110, open the sealing member 110 to expose the storage compartment 120 to the external environment in order to access the one or more items, and close the sealing member 110, thereby resealing the bag 100.

In an embodiment, the sealing member 110 comprises a sliding member that is configured to isolate the storage compartment 120 from the external environment (i.e., close the storage compartment 120) and to reopen the storage compartment 120.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the first wall 140 and second wall 150 are opposed to one another. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall 140 and second wall 150 have three points of contact—two points of contact along the periphery of the bag 100 and one point of contact along a bottom portion 160 of the storage compartment 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower portion 130 is hollow and open to the external environment.

When the bag 100 is stored upright, it may be disposed orthogonal with respect to a support surface. For instance, when the bag 100 is stored on a shelf, the bottom portion of the first wall 140 and the second wall 150 may be in contact with the shelf, thereby supporting the bag 100 in an upright configuration.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the sealing member 110 is configured to maintain a vacuum in the bag 100 when in a “closed” configuration. When the sealing member 110 is in an “open” configuration, a user can add (or remove) one or more items to (or from) the bag 100.

In an alternative embodiment, the bottom portion 160 of the storage compartment 120 can be provided at the bottom of the bag 100. In such a case, the bottom portion 160 would be defined by a base portion disposed at an angle in relation to the first wall 140 and the second wall 150. The base portion can be substantially flat (i.e., parallel to a support surface), thereby enabling the bag to remain upright when vacuum is applied to the storage compartment 120.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, vacuum may be provided to the bag 100 via a one-way vacuum member (not shown; see below) disposed at a predetermined vacuum application area 170. In one embodiment, the one-way vacuum member is formed on bag 100 during one or more stages of forming (or manufacturing) the bag. In another embodiment, the one-way vacuum member is provided as an attachment to the bag and a user may attach the one-way vacuum member to the bag 100 at the vacuum application area 170.

In a preferable embodiment, vacuum is provided to the bag 100 via a one-way vacuum member disposed at the vacuum application area 170 by closing the sealing member 110 and removing gas (e.g., air) from the bag 100 using a vacuum application device, such as, e.g., a pump. Gas can be removed from the bag 100 until a predetermined pressure (also “bag pressure” herein) is reached in the storage compartment 120 of the bag 100. In an embodiment, the one-way vacuum member is configured to prevent gas from entering the storage compartment 120 when the vacuum application device is removed.

With reference to FIG. 1, while the vacuum application area 170, as illustrated, is disposed at a top-right portion of the bag, in alternative embodiments, the vacuum application area 170 may be disposed at any location on the bag. As an example, the vacuum application area 170 can be disposed at the bottom-left portion of the bag and disposed over the storage compartment 120.

In an alternative embodiment, the one-way vacuum member can be omitted and vacuum may be applied to the bag 100 by creating a small, temporary opening in the bag 100, removing gas from the bag 100 via the opening, and sealing the opening. In an embodiment, the opening can be sealed via the application of heat to a portion of the bag adjacent the opening. In one embodiment, the opening can be provided at the vacuum application area 170 of the bag 100. In another embodiment, the opening can be provided at any location on the bag 100, such as, e.g., any location along the periphery of the bag. In an embodiment, the opening can be formed in the vacuum application area 170.

The bag 100 may be formed of any polymeric material. In an embodiment, the bag 100 is formed such that opposing walls of the storage compartment 120 comprise embossed channels. Embossed channels may provide for the rapid removal of gas (e.g., air) from the storage compartment 120 upon the application of vacuum.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the bag 100 may include a support member 180 configured to permit the bag 100 to stand upright on a horizontal surface. In an embodiment, the support member 180 is formed of a rigid material. In such a case, the bag 100 may stand upright with or without the application of vacuum to the storage compartment 120 of the bag 100. The support member 180 can be attached to the first wall 140 and the second wall 150 at the lower portion 130 of the bag 100. In an embodiment, the support member 180 is attached to portions of the first wall 140 and second wall 150 in the cavity 155. In an embodiment, the support member 180 is formed of one or more elemental metals, such as, e.g., Cu, Pt, Pd, Ni, or combinations (alloys) thereof. In another embodiment, the support member 180 is formed of a polymeric material.

In an embodiment, the bag 100 includes a filtering member 190 configured to prevent fine material (e.g., grains, powders) in the storage compartment 120 from entering a vacuum application device (e.g., pump) when vacuum is being applied to the sealed storage compartment 120. The filtering member may be disposed between a wall of the storage compartment and a one-way vacuum member configured to bring the vacuum application device in fluid communication with the storage compartment 120.

In an embodiment, the filtering member 190 is a mesh formed of substantially thin strands. In one embodiment, the strands are disposed perpendicularly with respect to one another. The strands may be formed of one or more elemental metals or a polymeric material. The distribution of strands may be selected so as to provide a desired pressure drop across the filtering member 190.

FIG. 2 shows a resealable bag 200 having a sealing member 210, a storage compartment 220 and a bottom portion 230 having a first wall 240 and a second wall (now shown) behind the first wall 240. The storage compartment 220 has a bottom portion 260 that is in contact with the first wall 240 and the second wall (not shown). When vacuum is applied to the storage compartment 220 of the bag 200, the bottom portion 230 enables the bag 200 to stand upright. This advantageously enables a user to store one or more resealable bags at a storage location and to conserve dead space between the bags, thereby storing the bags in an efficient configuration.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, the resealable bag 200 further comprises a vacuum application area 270 having a vacuum member 280 disposed thereon. The vacuum member 280 enables vacuum to be provided to the storage compartment 220 of the bag 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the vacuum member 280 is a one-way valve, which is configured to enable gas (e.g., air) to flow from the storage compartment 220 to a vacuum source (e.g., vacuum pump), while preventing gas from flowing from the external environment into the storage compartment 220.

The resealable bag 200 may include a filtering member, such as the filtering member 190 discussed above in the context of FIG. 1. The filtering member may be disposed in the storage compartment 220 at a location substantially below the vacuum member 280. The filtering member is configured to prevent fine material (e.g., powders, grains) from entering a vacuum source upon the application of vacuum to the storage compartment 220.

With reference to FIG. 3A, a portion of a resealable bag (also “bag” herein) 300 is shown, the bag comprising a sealing member 310, a vacuum application area 370 and a one-way vacuum member (also “vacuum member” herein) 380 that is disposed on the vacuum application area 370, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. With the sealing member 310 in an “open” (or “unsealed”) configuration, one or more items are placed in a storage compartment (see above) of the bag 300. With reference to FIG. 3B, with the sealing member 310 in a “closed” (or “sealed”) configuration, vacuum is applied to a storage compartment (not shown) of the bag 300 via a vacuum source 390 in fluid communication with the storage compartment through the vacuum member 380. In an embodiment, a user may squeeze the bag 300—e.g., by holding the bag 300 applying force to opposing walls of the bag 300—to facilitate the application of vacuum to the bag 300. The vacuum source 390 removes one or more gases (e.g., air) from the storage compartment of the vacuum bag 300. When a desired level of vacuum (or pressure) in the storage compartment is reached, the vacuum source 390 is removed. The one-way vacuum member 380 prevents one or more gases from entering the bag 300 via the external (or ambient) environment.

FIG. 4A shows a resealable vacuum bag (also “bag” herein) 400 in an upright position, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, the bag 400 is identical to the bag 100 discussed above in the context of FIG. 1. The bag 400 comprises a sealing member 410 and a bottom portion 430 that is configured to enable the bag 400 to stand upright when a storage compartment 420 of the bag 400 is under vacuum, i.e., when the pressure within the bag is below 1 atm, or substantially below 1 atm. In one embodiment, the bottom portion 430 also enables the bag 400 to stand upright when the bag is not under vacuum, i.e., when the pressure within the bag is about 1 atm. With reference to FIG. 4B, the bottom portion 430 comprises a first wall 440 and a second wall 450. In the illustrated embodiment, the first wall 440 and the second wall 450 have three points of contact—two points of contact at the periphery (or sides) of the bottom portion 430 and one point of contact at a bottom portion 460 of the storage compartment 420. In an alternative embodiment, the bottom portion 460 of the storage compartment 420 is at or substantially near the bottom of the bag 400. In such a case, the bag may comprise a base that is angled with respect to opposing walls of the bag 400. The base may enable the bag 400 to stand upright when the storage compartment 420 is under vacuum.

Resealable Vacuum Bans Having Vacuum Filters

In another aspect of the invention, a vacuum bag having one or more filters is provided. In an embodiment, the vacuum bag is a resealable vacuum bag. In an embodiment, the one or more filters comprise one or more passages (or slits) bringing a storage compartment of the vacuum bag in fluid contact with a vacuum compartment of the vacuum bag.

FIG. 5 shows a resealable bag (also “bag” herein) 500 having a sealing member 510 and a storage compartment 520. The storage compartment 520 is in fluid communication with a vacuuming portion 530 of the bag 500 via one or more slits (also “passages” herein) 540. The bag 500 may comprise a bottom portion, such as, e.g., lower portion 130 discussed above in the context of FIG. 1, which may enable the bag 500 to stand upright when the storage compartment 520 is under vacuum. The vacuuming portion 530 may be in fluid communication with a vacuum device (e.g., pump) through a vacuum member (e.g., a one-way valve, a slit in the vacuuming portion 530), which can provide vacuum in the storage compartment 520. The storage compartment 520 is configured to hold (or store) one or more items, such as, e.g., food items, medicinal items, or chemicals. In a preferable embodiment, the sealing member 510 is configured to seal the storage compartment 520 from the external environment prior to the application of vacuum to the storage compartment 520 (through the vacuuming portion 530), and to reopen the storage compartment 520. In an embodiment, the sealing member 510 comprises a sliding member that is configured to isolate the storage compartment 520 from the external environment (i.e., close the storage compartment 520) and to reopen the storage compartment 520.

In a preferable embodiment, the sealing member 510 is configured to isolate the storage compartment 520 from the external environment. In an embodiment, the sealing member 510 hermetically isolates the storage compartment 520 from the external environment.

In an embodiment, the slits enable gas (e.g., air) to be removed from the storage compartment 520 while preventing one or more particles (e.g., food items) from entering the vacuuming portion. This advantageously prevents one or more particles from entering a vacuum device when vacuum is being provided to the storage compartment 520.

With continued reference to FIG. 5, while the bag 500 comprises three slits 540, it will be appreciated that the bag 500 may include any number of slits 540. For example, the bag 500 may include 1 slit, or 2 slits, or 4 slits, or 10 slits, or 20 slits, or 50 slits, or 100 slits. Additionally, the slits 540 may have any width and configuration, such as spacing with respect to one another. The slit width, slit spacing and number of slits may be selected as desired to, e.g., optimize fluid flow during application of vacuum to the storage compartment 520.

With continued reference to FIG. 5, the vacuuming portion 530 can be disposed at a side of the bag 500. For example, the vacuuming portion 530 can be disposed at the left side of the bag 500. As another example, the vacuuming portion 530 can be disposed at the right side of the bag 500. In an embodiment, the bag 500 may include a plurality of vacuuming portions 530, each having one or more slits in fluid communication with the storage compartment 520. For example, the bag 500 may include a first vacuuming portion at the left side of the bag 500 and a second vacuuming portion at the right side of the bag, wherein the first and second vacuuming portion has one or more slits 540 in fluid communication with the storage compartment 520.

With continued reference to FIG. 5, the one or more slits 540 of the bag 500 are separated by four walls 550 disposed at a bottom portion of the storage compartment 520. In an embodiment, if the bag 500 comprises n slits (or passages) 540, wherein ‘n’ is an integer greater than or equal to 1, the bag 500 may comprise n+1 walls 550 separating the slits 540.

In an embodiment, vacuum may be provided in the storage compartment 520 by a vacuum device that first forms an opening in a portion of the vacuuming portion 530. Next, the opening is brought in fluid communication with a source of vacuum. The storage compartment 520 is evacuated (until a desired or predetermined pressure is achieved). Next, the opening in the vacuuming portion 530 is sealed through the application of heat to a portion of the vacuuming portion 530 adjoining the opening. In another embodiment, vacuum may be provided in the storage compartment 520 using a vacuum member, such as, e.g., a one-way valve in fluid communication with the vacuuming portion 530. In such a case, the storage compartment 520 is evacuated using a vacuum device coupled (or in fluid communication with) the vacuum member.

With reference to FIG. 6, in an alternative embodiment, a resealable bag (also “bag” herein) 600 having a sealing member 610 and a storage compartment 620 is shown. The bag 600 comprises a vacuuming portion 630 having one or more slits 640 that are in fluid communication with the storage compartment 620. The vacuuming portion 630 is disposed at a right side of the bag 600. The vacuuming portion 630, as illustrated, includes four slits 640. In a preferable embodiment, the vacuuming portion 630 may include any number of slits 640. In a preferable embodiment, the sealing member 610 is configured to isolate the storage compartment 620 from the external environment. In an embodiment, the sealing member 610 hermetically isolates the storage compartment 620 from the external environment.

In an embodiment, if the bag 600 comprises m slits (or passages) 640, wherein ‘m’ is an integer greater than or equal to 1, the bag 600 may comprise m+1 walls 650 separating the slits 640. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6, the bag 600 comprises four passages 640 and five walls 650 separating the passages 640.

In an embodiment, vacuum may be provided in the storage compartment 620 using, e.g., a vacuum device and opening combination, or a vacuum member (e.g., one-way valve) coupled to a vacuum device, as discussed above in the context of FIG. 5.

Resealable Vacuum Bans Having Pourable Members

FIG. 7A shows reclosable (or resealable) vacuum bag 700 having a spout (also “pouring member” and “pouring spout” herein) 705, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In the illustrated embodiment, the spout 705 is stored in a storage compartment 710 of the reclosable vacuum bag 700. The storage compartment 710 is at least partially defined by a first wall 712 and a second wall 714. The spout 705, as illustrated, is in a refracted configuration.

The reclosable vacuum bag 700 further comprises a sealing member 720 configured to seal the storage compartment 710. An upper portion of the spout 705 is disposed below the sealing member 720 so that the bag 700 can seal with the spout 705 in the bag 700. The reclosable vacuum bag 700 may also include a vacuum application area, such as the vacuum application area 170 discussed above in the context of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7B shows the reclosable vacuum bag 700 with the spout 705 in an extended (or elongated) configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The spout 705 is at least partially defined by a first wall 725 and a second wall 730. The first wall 725 and the second wall 730 meet at a location of the storage compartment 710 where the first wall 712 and second wall 714 of the storage compartment 710 meet. In an embodiment, the first wall 725 is attached to the first wall 712 and the second wall 730 is attached to the second wall 714. In such a case, the first wall 725 and second wall 730 are attached to the first wall 712 and the second wall 714 in such manner so as to permit the spout 705 to extend out of the storage compartment 710 and retract into the storage compartment 710.

With continued reference to FIG. 7B, with the spout 705 in an extended configuration, a user can pour one or more contents of the bag 700 (stored in the storage compartment 710) into a storage unit, such as, e.g., a cup or bowl. The spout 705 may facilitate the transfer of the one or more contents to the storage unit by directing the flow of the one or more contents from the storage compartment 710 to the storage unit. In an embodiment, the spout 705 is useful for transferring fine material (e.g., nuts, rice, powders, grains) and liquids from the storage compartment 710 to an external storage vessel (or unit), such as, e.g., a cup or bowl.

Sealing Tools

With reference to FIGS. 8A-8D, in an aspect of the invention, a sealing tool 800 configured to close the sealing member of a reclosable vacuum bag (such as, e.g., the sealing member 720 of vacuum bag 700 or sealing member 610 of vacuum bag 600) is illustrated. In embodiments, the sealing tool 800 is configured to mount a vacuum bag and close a sealing member of the vacuum bag. In a preferable embodiment, the sealing tool 800 comprises a slit 805 with opposing sidewalls 806 and 807. Each of the sidewalls 806 and 807 is configured to come in contact with a portion of the sealing member.

With reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the slit 805 extends from above a middle portion of the sealing tool 800 to a lower portion of the sealing tool 800. The slit 805 comprises an opening at the lower portion of the sealing tool 800. In an embodiment, portions of the sidewalls 806 and 807 near the opening of the slit 805 are spaced a smaller distance from one another (along a vector orthogonal to the sidewalls 806 and 807) than portions of the sidewalls 806 and 807 towards the middle portion of the sealing tool 800.

With continued reference to FIGS. 8A-8D, the sealing tool 800 can be formed of any material, such as, e.g., a polymeric material. FIG. 8A schematically illustrates a front portion of the sealing tool 800; FIG. 8B schematically illustrates a rear portion of the sealing tool 800; FIG. 8C schematically illustrates a side portion of the sealing tool 800; and FIG. 8D schematically illustrates a bottom portion of the sealing tool 800, showing the slit 805. The front portion may include text, such as marketing, advertising, or instructional text (e.g., “Use Zip-Disc to close bag securely”, as illustrated in FIG. 8A). In an embodiment, the rear portion includes a hollow portion 808, which can advantageously provide for savings in materials costs. The hollow portion 808 can be a hollowed-out portion.

With reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the sealing tool 800 can include holes 809 adjacent the sidewalls 806 and 807. The holes 809 can be of any cross-sectional shape (e.g., circular, box-like). The holes 809 in the illustrated embodiment are elongate holes. The holes 809 can be configured to provide a spring-like (or reflexive) feature to the sidewalls 806 and 807. That is, when the sidewalls 806 and 807 come in contact with a sealing member of a vacuum bag, the holes 809 permit the sidewalls 806, 807 to bend. This advantageously provides a restorative force that enables the sidewalls 806, 807 to close the sealing member as the user slides the sealing tool 800 along the length of the sealing member. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 806, 807 can conform to the shape of the sealing member when they adjoin the sealing member. In certain embodiments, the holes 809 can be precluded without changing the functionality of the sealing tool 800.

With continued reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, in various embodiments, the slit 805 can have a width—the distance between the sidewalls 806 and 807 taken along a vector orthogonal to the sidewalls 806 and 807—less than about 5 cm, or less than about 4 cm, or less than about 2 cm, or less than about 1 cm, or less than about 0.5 cm. In certain embodiments, the width can be adjusted as desired to as to bring portions of the sealing member of a reclosable vacuum bag together. In some cases, the width can be about 0.005 cm or higher. In an embodiment, the width can be about 0.25 cm. In certain embodiments, the width can be between about 0.1 cm and 1.5 cm, or between about 0.2 cm and 0.5 cm. The slit can have a length of about 10 cm or less, or about 5 cm or less, or about 4 cm or less, or about 3 cm or less, or about 2 cm or less. In an embodiment, the slit can have a length of about 3.25 cm.

With reference to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the shape of the sealing tool 800, as illustrated, is circular. In other embodiments, the sealing tool 800 can have other shapes. In embodiments, the shape of the sealing tool 800 can be circular, box-like, elliptical, or rectangular. It will be appreciated that the sealing tool 800 of FIGS. 8A-8D is illustrative and not limiting.

The sealing tool 800 can be used to prepare a reclosable vacuum bag for the application of vacuum. In an embodiment, with a sealing member of a reclosable vacuum bag in an “open” configuration, a user can bring the slit 805 of the sealing tool 800 in alignment with opposing walls of the sealing member of the reclosable vacuum bag. That is, the user can position the sealing tool 800 such that the sidewall 806 comes in contact with one portion of the sealing member (e.g., sealing member 610 of FIG. 6) and the sidewall 807 comes in contact with an opposing portion of the sealing member. The user can then slide the sealing tool 800 along the length of the sealing member to bring the sealing member to a “closed” configuration. In some embodiments, the user can slide the sealing tool 800 along at least a portion of the sealing member to bring the sealing member to a “closed” configuration. With the sealing member in a “closed” configuration, the user can apply vacuum to the reclosable vacuum bag.

EXAMPLE

With reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, in an exemplary embodiment, during operation a user may open the storage compartment 710 of the bag 700 using the sealing member 720. The user may extend the spout 705 from a retracted configuration to an extended (or elongated) configuration. When in the extended configuration, the spout 705 protrudes out of the storage compartment 710 of the bag 700. The user then tilts the bag 700 to transfer one or more contents of the bag from the storage compartment 710 of the bag into an external storage unit (e.g., a cup or bowl). After the user has delivered a desired quantity of the one or more contents of the bag 700 using the spout 705, the user retracts the spout 705 back into the bag 700 and closes (or reseals) the storage compartment 710 using the sealing member 720. In an embodiment, the user closes the storage compartment 710 by bringing two halves of the sealing member 720 together to form a seal.

It should be understood from the foregoing that, while particular implementations have been illustrated and described, various modifications can be made thereto and are contemplated herein. It is also not intended that the invention be limited by the specific examples provided within the specification. While the invention has been described with reference to the aforementioned specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the preferable embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations or relative proportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. Various modifications in form and detail of the embodiments of the invention will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. It is therefore contemplated that the invention shall also cover any such modifications, variations and equivalents. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

1. A resealable vacuum container, comprising:

a storage compartment for holding one or more items;

a sealing member configured to isolate the container from the external environment; and

a lower portion comprising a first wall and second wall, the first wall and the second wall defining a cavity in the lower portion, wherein the cavity is isolated from the storage compartment along a bottom portion of the storage compartment.

2. The resealable vacuum container of claim 1, wherein the sealing member is configured to resealably isolate the container from the external environment.

3. The resealable vacuum container of claim 1, wherein the sealing member comprises a sliding member that is configured to close and open the storage compartment.

4. The resealable vacuum container of claim 1, wherein the first wall and the second wall have three points of contact.

5. The resealable vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a vacuum application area for providing vacuum to the container.

6. The resealable vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a one-way vacuum member in fluid communication with the storage compartment.

7. The resealable vacuum container of claim 6, wherein the one-way vacuum member is disposed at a top portion of the storage compartment, the top portion opposite from the lower portion.

8. The resealable vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a support member configured to permit the resealable vacuum container to stand upright on a horizontal surface.

9. The resealable vacuum container of claim 8, wherein the support member is formed of a rigid material.

10. The resealable vacuum container of claim 8, wherein the support member is attached to the first wall and the second wall.

11. The resealable vacuum container of claim 8, wherein the support member is formed of one or more elemental metals selected from Cu, Pt, Pd and Ni.

12. The resealable vacuum container of claim 8, wherein the support member is formed of a polymeric material.

13. The resealable vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a filtering member in fluid communication with the storage compartment.

14. The resealable vacuum container of claim 13, wherein the filtering members comprise one or more passages.

15. The resealable vacuum container of claim 13, wherein the filtering member includes a mesh formed of substantially thin strands.

16. The resealable vacuum container of claim 15, wherein a portion of the strands are disposed perpendicularly with respect to one another.

17. The resealable vacuum container of claim 15, wherein the strands are formed of one or more elemental metals or a polymeric material.

18. The resealable vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a filter bringing a storage compartment in fluid contact with a vacuum compartment of the resealable vacuum container.

19. The resealable vacuum container of claim 18, wherein the filter comprises one or more passages.

20. The resealable vacuum container of claim 18, wherein the filter is disposed perpendicularly with respect to the bottom portion.

21. The resealable vacuum container of claim 18, wherein the filter is disposed parallel to the bottom portion.

22. The resealable vacuum container of claim 1, further comprising a pouring member.

23. The resealable vacuum container of claim 22, wherein the pouring member is configured to be extended out of the storage compartment and retracted into the storage compartment.

24. A reclosable vacuum container, comprising:

a storage compartment for holding one or more items;

an upper portion comprising a sealing member configured to isolate the container from the external environment;

a lower portion comprising a first wall and second wall, the first wall and the second wall defining a cavity in the lower portion, wherein the cavity is isolated from the storage compartment along a bottom portion of the storage compartment, and wherein the first wall and the second wall are configured to permit the reclosable vacuum container to stand upright when vacuum is applied to the storage compartment; and

a vacuum application area comprising a vacuum member, the vacuum member in fluid communication with the storage compartment, the vacuum member configured to bring the storage compartment under vacuum.

25. A sealing tool for closing a sealing member of a vacuum container, comprising:

a slit with opposing sidewalls, each of the sidewalls configured to come in contact with a portion of the sealing member of the vacuum container;

a hollowed-out rear portion; and

one or more holes adjacent the opposing sidewalls of the slit.

26. The sealing tool of claim 25, further comprising a front portion, the front portion and the rear portion configured to be gripped by a user's fingers.

27. The sealing tool of claim 25, wherein the one or more holes are configured to provide a spring-like feature to the sidewalls.

28. The sealing tool of claim 25, wherein the slit extends from above a middle portion of the sealing tool to a lower portion of the sealing tool.