DISPENSER SYSTEM FOR FLEXIBLE BAGS

Abstract

Embodiments relate to a dispenser including a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a pump; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic.

Description

CLAIM FOR PRIORITY

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/544,247 filed Oct. 6, 2011 titled “Dispensing System for Flexible Bags”: U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/545,990 filed Oct. 11, 2011 titled “Dispensing System for Flexible Bags”: U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/556,763 filed Nov. 7, 2011 titled “Film for Flexible Bags”; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/709,018 filed Oct. 2, 2012 titled “Film for Flexible Bags” the complete subject matter of each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates dispensers. More particularly, embodiments relate to a dispenser that uses flexible bags and containers containing product that prevent weeping of the product.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The ability to dispense a controlled quantity of a condiment, such as ketchup, mustard, relish, salad dressings, hot wings sauce, spaghetti sauce, tartar sauce or other sauces, in an efficient manner has been important in the food service industry for many years. This is especially true for large volume food handling operations such as fast food restaurants, where employees and customers desire the ability to dispense condiments quickly and conveniently, and where even a marginal reduction in the waste of, or time required to dispense, condiments leads to significant savings in cost. Additionally, use of substantially all the condiment in a bag can lead to reduced costs and reduced waste.

Dispensing condiments from large, flexible plastic bags is advantageous. Condiments can be easily packaged in flexible bags at a central facility and shipped to the point of sale. Bulk plastic containers can incorporate gas barriers that allow condiments to be packaged so that they can be stored at room temperature, which makes the packages more convenient to ship and store. Storing the condiments at room temperature saves time when it is desirable that the condiment be served at room temperature by eliminating the requirement that the condiment be allowed to warm from a refrigerated temperature before use. Flexible plastic bags are a common form of packaging for food and thus are readily handled by employees without special training. Further, storing the condiments at room temperature reduces the expense of refrigeration. In addition, bags are often more cost effective, easier to dispose of, occupy less storage space if desired or needed and can still be refrigerated.

Historically, many products and condiments have been shipped and stored in tin cans, often #10 tin cans. While tin cans offer good shelf life performance, tin cans contribute to waste of product that clings to the side of cans. Further, tin cans are heavy to ship, store, and are heavy and voluminous for disposal. Additionally, tin cans require can openers to open—retrieving the opener reduces operational speed, and the opener may be difficult to locate, further reducing efficiency. Opening tin cans may also result in sharp edges that may tear garbage bags and pose a laceration risk.

Other historical containers may include gallon jugs and caulk cartridge type cans. However, gallon jugs contribute to waste in the same fashion as tin cans, and share many of the negative attributes of tin cans. Caulk cartridge type cans leave less product in the canister, but require priming of each can and may also generate significant wasted product. For example, a 25-ounce cartridge delivering a one-ounce payload may waste 4% of the product due to priming. However, caulk cartridge type cans may not be hermetically sealed, may be more expensive and may take up more room in a landfill.

Devices attempting to efficiently dispense condiments from bulk flexible plastic bags exist, including devices that use rollers advanced by gravity, by gears or rack and pinion means to squeeze condiment out of the plastic bags, but these devices have several disadvantages. Devices that use gravity actuated rollers or gears are complicated to manufacture and may involve manipulating the rollers in non-intuitive ways. Other devices that utilize more complex means for releasing condiment from the bags require that the bags incorporate specially designed fittings, including tubes and couplings, which increase the cost and complexity of the packaging and add to product waste during cleanup. Yet other devices use motorized pumps that require electricity and possibly pressurized gases to operate, which adds to the cost and size of the dispensers, increasing manufacturing costs and adding complexity during cleaning. Further, pumps may result in undesired splatter, which both wastes product, as well as work effort to clean the splatter. If a pump in the front of the store splatters, customers may become unhappy. Motorized devices often require long tubes that contribute to waste of the condiment and complicate clean up. Furthermore, existing types of dispensers have a single outlet for the condiment, which reduces efficiency at workstations where multiple outlets can be accommodated. Additionally, tubes reduce the range of movement and freedom of motion of the applicator device. Additionally, devices using pressurized gas rely on the gas, and in event of gas malfunction, or lack of gas supply, the device is non-functional.

Other devices utilize fitments that require significant expense, and contribute to waste if the fitment is improperly fitted. For example, a plastic fitment is used to provide a valve to a flexible bag. For use, the fitment must be separately manufactured, and heat sealed to a flexible bag.

The ability to reduce waste by reducing the amount of material left on the inside of the container is desirable.

The present invention advances the art.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In at least one embodiment the open dispenser 500 is configured to receive a flexible container (such as flexible bag 400 for example) such that the valve is positioned extending between two opposing ends of the dispenser 500 using one or more positioning devices. The door is closed, such that only the weakened portion and tear strip of the flexible bag extends thereform.

In at least one embodiment, the flexible bag includes a weakened area formed using a perforation a laser score on one or more side, forming a tear strip having a tearing direction. The flexible bag is opened along the tear strip in the tearing direction. The end cap is then secured to the dispenser, enabling dispensing of the product and preventing the product from leaking into the chamber (i.e., backflow).

One embodiment, relates to a dispenser including a container having a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises one of the group consisting of a flexible seal, a foam, an open cell foam and a closed cell foam. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The dispenser may include a barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises one of the group consisting of open cell foam, closed cell foam and a flexible seal. At least one of the first zone and second zone may include an adhesive, a tacky polymer, tape and/or double sided tape. The dispenser may include at least one of a flexible bag, a flexible package and a flexible container along at least the first zone, where the at least of the flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container have an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5 or a coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and 1.0. Additionally the at least one flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container have an inner and outer surface, the outer surface having a higher coefficient of friction than the inner surface or the outer surface in combination with the first interior side having a lower coefficient of friction than the inner surface. The dispenser may include the pump having at least one of a group consisting of a piston, a mechanical drive member, a pneumatic drive member and an electrical drive member. The actuating device incrementally actuates the pump advancing the actuating device a predetermined amount and/or incrementally reversing a predetermined amount. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the second zone.

Still another embodiment relates to a dispensing system including a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump that includes at least one of a group consisting of a piston, mechanical drive device, pneumatic drive device and electrical drive device; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone includes a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic; and a flexible bag sized to substantially fit within the containment portion, wherein first zone partially holds to the flexible bag and wherein the piston translates axially through the chamber and everts the flexible bag. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone. The system further includes a valve separate from the pump, where the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The system includes at least one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, where the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The flexible bag may include an inner surface with a coefficient less than about 0.5, an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5 or an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. DD One other embodiment relates to a dispenser including a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump, the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone. The dispenser includes a valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The first zone comprises at least one of a tacky polymer, an adhesive, tape, a high friction material having a coefficient of friction greater than about 0.5. The dispenser includes at least one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

One other embodiment relates to a dispenser including a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump, the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone. The dispenser includes a valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The first zone comprises at least one of a tacky polymer, an adhesive, tape, a high friction material having a coefficient of friction greater than about 0.5. The dispenser includes at least one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

A dispenser includes a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump; a flexible bag; and wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to the flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. The dispenser further includes a valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The dispenser further includes at least one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The may include an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5, or an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. A method of dispensing product includes receiving a flexible bag containing product into a dispenser, the dispenser including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump including a piston, wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to hold to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone; bringing a portion of the flexible bag into contact with the first zone; translating the piston axially; pushing the piston against the flexible bag; and everting the flexible bag responsive to the pushing, wherein the everting comprises separating a portion of the held flexible bag from the first zone and allowing at least a portion of the detached flexible bag to be inserted into itself. The method includes dispensing product through a valve, wherein the everting comprises translating a piston axially such that the piston presses into the flexible bag such that an outer surface of the flexible bag detaches from the first zone responsive to the translation and enters an interior of the bag such that a first area of an inner surface of the flexible bag is brought into proximity with a second area of the inner surface, and wherein at least a portion of the flexible bag translates responsive to translation of the piston. A dispensing system includes a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic; a flexible bag sized to substantially fit within the containment portion, and wherein the flexible bag may include an inner and outer wall, the outer wall includes a third tackiness characteristic, wherein the inner surface has a coefficient of friction less than about 0.2 and 0.5.

A dispenser includes a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises a tackiness characteristic. The tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least one portion of the first interior side and not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along another portion of the first interior side. The flexible bag has an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5, or a coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and 1.0. The flexible bag may include at least a first zone including a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. The flexible bag may include a second zone includes a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The flexible bag has opposing first and second ends, wherein the tackiness characteristic is spaced from at least one of the first and second ends.

A dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a product, the dispenser includes a housing having a first wall and a second wall hingedly connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a portion of at least one of the first wall and second wall and loosely adhere to a portion of at least one first wall and the second wall; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biased actuating device; a piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap adapted to be removably, rotatably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one opening adapted to allow flow in only one direction. The piston is a segmented piston. The dispenser includes at least one outlet having a valve fitment that allows product to flow there through in only one direction and/or having a predetermined shape allowing product to flow there though in only one direction. The dispenser may include a tacky portion mounted to at least one of the first wall and the second wall.

Another embodiment includes a dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a product contained in the flexible bag, the dispenser including a housing having a first wall and a second wall movably connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end; a tacky portion contacting the housing enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhere to a second portion of the tacky portion; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a reversible manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and dispense the product; and an end cap adapted to be removably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction, wherein the handle and segmented piston act in concert, such that upon applying pressure to the flexible bag, everting the flexible bag and dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, and upon completion of dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing the product from weeping. The at least one outlet has a valve fitment that allows product to flow there through in only one direction and/or includes the outlet having a predetermined shape allowing product to flow there though in only one direction. The tacky portion is mounted to at least one of the first wall and the second wall. An end cap is rotatably connected to the housing. The second wall is moveably connected to the first wall via at least one hinge. The dispenser includes a lock securing the first wall and the second wall. The handle further includes a trigger.

A dispenser adapted to dispense a product, the dispenser includes a housing having a first wall and a second d wall movably connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end; a flexible bag received in the chamber and adapted to dispense a product upon application of pressure thereto; a tacky portion mounted to the housing enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhere to a second portion of the tacky portion; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a reversible manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and dispense the product; and an end cap adapted to be removably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction, wherein the handle and segmented piston act in concert, such that upon applying pressure to the flexible bag that flexible bag everts dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, and upon completion of dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing the product weeping.

One other embodiment relates to a method for dispensing a product using a dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag includes a housing having a first wall and a second wall hingedly connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biased actuating device; a tacky portion mounted to the housing having a first portion and a second portion; a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap adapted to be removably, rotatably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction; the flexible bag formed from a film includes: a first edge; a first surface, the first surface having a first static coefficient; a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface having a static coefficient of friction greater than the first static coefficient; the second surface firmly adhering to the first portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhering to the second portion of the tacky portion; and wherein the at least one layer is joined along at least the first edge and defining a tearing direction that allows the flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing direction; the method includes removing the end cap; moving the first wall away from the secong wall, opening the dispenser and exposing at least the chamber; positioning the flexible bag in the chamber such that at least the tear strip extends from the dispenser; moving the first wall towards the second wall, closing the dispenser; opening the tear strip in the tearing direction; placing the end cap on the dispenser; and actuating the actuating device.

Still another embodiment relates to a film used to form a flexible bag including at least one layer adapted to be folded over on itself without cracking, the at least one layer includes at least one edge; a first surface; a second surface opposite the first surface, at least one of the first or second surface having a coefficient of friction less than 0.5; and wherein the at least one layer is adapted to be joined along the at least one edge, forming the flexible bag and scored, forming a weakened portion. At least one of the first and second surfaces has a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. 93.

The first surface has a static coefficient of friction less than 0.5 and the second surface has a static coefficient of friction greater than 0.5.

The flexible bag formed from a film comprising includes at least one layer adapted to be folded upon itself without cracking, the at least one layer includes a first edge and a second edge; a first surface, the first surface having a static coefficient of friction less than 0.5; a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface having a static coefficient of friction greater than 0.5; and wherein the at least one layer is joined along at least the first edge, forming the flexible bag and the second end is scored defining a tearing direction that allows the flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing direction. The first surface has a static coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. The flexible bag includes at least a first zone of at least the first surface resists the film slipping along the first zone and a second zone of the second surface does not resist the film slipping along the second zone. The flexible bag further includes at least one location device, comprises at least one hole and/or at least one location device comprises at least one marking on the bag.

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention will become further apparent from the following detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments, read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The detailed description and drawings are merely illustrative of the invention rather than limiting, the scope of the invention can be defined by the appended the claims and equivalents thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is top view of the dispenser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is side view of the dispenser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a dispenser of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a dispenser of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a dispenser of FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 is top view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;

FIG. 11 is bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;

FIG. 13 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;

FIG. 14 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 6;

FIG. 15 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the flexible bag taken along line A-A of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 15;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 15;

FIG. 21 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 15;

FIG. 22 is an top view of the flexible bag and dispenser in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 23 is a side view of the flexible bag and dispenser of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is an end view of the flexible bag and dispenser;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the end view of the flexible bag and dispenser of FIG. 24 taken along line A-A;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the flexible bag and dispenser of FIG. 22;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the flexible bag and dispenser of FIG. 22;

FIG. 28 is an end view of the flexible bag and dispenser of FIG. 22;

FIG. 29 is an oblique view of the chamber in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 30 is a sectional view of the dispenser in accordance with the embodiment;

FIG. 31 is an oblique view of the chamber in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 32 is an oblique view of the chamber and flexible bag in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the chamber and flexible bag in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a barrier in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a barrier in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of another flexible bag in accordance with one embodiment;

FIG. 37 is an oblique view of the dispenser similar to that of FIG. 22 having the flexible bag of FIG. 36 positioned therein;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a flexible bag in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 39 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 38;

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a flexible bag in accordance with yet another embodiment;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 40;

FIG. 42 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 40;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a flexible bag in accordance with still another embodiment;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a flexible bag in accordance with still yet another embodiment;

FIG. 45 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 44;

FIG. 46 is an opposing end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 45;

FIG. 47 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with one other embodiment;

FIG. 48 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 47;

FIG. 49 is an oblique view of the flexible bag of FIG. 47;

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the dispenser similar to that of FIG. 6 having the flexible bag of FIG. 47 positioned therein;

FIG. 51 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 52 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 53 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 54 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 55 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 56 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 57 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 51 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 62 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 63 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 64 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 65 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 66 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 67 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 68 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 69 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 70 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 72 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 62 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 73 is a top view of a flexible bag in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 74 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 75 is an end view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 76 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 77 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 78 is a side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 79 is an opposing side view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines;

FIG. 80 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 81 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with the fold lines illustrated using solid lines;

FIG. 82 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines; and

FIG. 83 is a perspective view of the flexible bag of FIG. 73 with some of the fold lines illustrated using phantom lines.

FIG. 84 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 85 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 86 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 87 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 88 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 89 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 90 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 91 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 92 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 93 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 94 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 84 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 95 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 96 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 97 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 98 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 99 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 100 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 101 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 102 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 103 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 104 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 105 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 95 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 106 is a perspective view of a dispenser in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 107 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 108 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 109 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 110 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 111 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 112 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 113 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 114 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 115 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 116 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 106 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 117 is a perspective view of an open dispenser in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 118 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 119 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 120 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 121 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 122 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 123 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 124 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 125 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 126 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 127 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 117 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 128 is a perspective view of an open dispenser in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 129 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 130 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 131 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 132 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 133 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 134 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 135 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 136 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 137 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 138 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 128 without some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 139 is a perspective view of an open dispenser in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 140 is an end view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 141 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 142 is a top view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 143 is a side view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 144 is a bottom view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 145 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 146 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 147 is another end view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 148 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

FIG. 149 is another perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 139 with some of the fold lines illustrated;

Throughout the various figures, like reference numbers refer to like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1-6 depict one embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with the present invention; while FIGS. 7-14 depict another embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 1-14 illustrate a dispenser 100 that may include a container 110 including a containment portion 105 and a handle portion 115. Handle portion 115 may include a trigger or actuating device 116 to selectively actuate a pump. Alternative embodiments of dispensers in accordance with the invention are illustrated in FIGS. 6-13, and other arrangements and shapes are possible. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6, dispenser 100 may include a first wall 120 and a second wall 125 that are hingedly connected. In one embodiment, dispenser 100 further comprising a valve 450 separate from the pump, as seen in FIGS. 5-7 and 14. Although FIGS. 5-7 and 14 illustrate valve 450 as including a plurality of outlets 455 arranged substantially circularly, any number of outlets 455, and any number of geometric configurations of the outlets 455 can be used. In one such embodiment, a single outlet 455 is positioned at a center of a circle defined by the container 110.

FIGS. 1-14 illustrate the dispenser 100 of FIG. 1 in a closed configuration including container 110 including a containment portion 105 and a handle portion 115. Handle portion 115 may include an actuating device 116 to selectively actuate a pump. While an actuating device 116 is depicted and means for selectively actuating the pump is contemplated including any mechanical, pneumatic or electrical drive device is contemplated. FIGS. 5-7 and 14 illustrate valve 450 including a plurality of outlets 455.

FIGS. 29-31 illustrate the dispenser 100 of FIGS. 1-14 in an open configuration. Containment portion 105 defines a chamber 309. Chamber 309 may include at least a first interior side 311 that comprises at least a first zone 312 comprising a first tackiness characteristic (represented by T₁) and a second zone 313 comprising a second tackiness characteristic (represented by T₂), such that the first tackiness characteristic is greater than or exceeds the second tackiness characteristic, such that T₁>T₂. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 29-30, first zone 312 and second zone 313 are positioned on opposing ends of chamber 309, but FIG. 31 illustrates at least one embodiment, where first zone 312 and second zone 313 are located at one end of chamber 309 and second zone 313 is positioned at the opposing end thereof. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 31, a ring or seal is positioned in the dispenser proximate the outlet and/or valve to prevent backflow in to the chamber for example,

In at least one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15-21, dispenser 100 is configured to receive a flexible container 315, a pre-filled disposable flexible bag for example. Flexible container 315 may include a first end 320, a second end 325, and wall 330 extending there between, where at least wall 330 contacts or engages first interior side 311 and/or first zone 312 and second zone 313. First end 320, second end 325 and wall 330 define a pouch adapted to be filled and the container 315 sealed. In at least one embodiment, flexible container 315 is in fluid communication with at least valve 450 and/or outlets 455. In one or more embodiments, the flexible container 315 includes a connector or ring 322 which acts as a fitment, creating a passage between the flexible bag 314 and valve 450 and/or outlets 455, sealing the passage thereby preventing the product from leaking into the chamber 309 (i.e., backflow).

FIGS. 15-21 depict flexible bag 315 having tape 318, where the tape 318 may include single-sided or double-sided tape or the like, fixed to one or more portions of wall 330. As illustrated, tape 318 includes double-sided tape fixed to opposing sides of wall 330 and adapted to contact the first zone 312 and/or second zone 313. However, different embodiments are contemplated. For example the tape 318 may include double-sided tape to only one portion of wall 330 or on three or more sides of wall 330. Additional embodiments include tape 318 comprising a single-sided tape adapted to be secured by the containment portion 105 for example.

In at least one embodiment, the first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist the flexible container 315 slipping along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag 315 slipping along the second zone.

FIGS. 5-7 and 14 illustrate valve 450 including a plurality of outlets 45. In one embodiment, the valve 450 comprises a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump.

FIGS. 15-21 depict an embodiment of the flexible bag in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; while FIGS. 22-28 are views of the flexible bag and dispenser in accordance with one embodiment. FIGS. 34 & 35 depict a barrier in accordance with one embodiment.

One embodiment relates to a dispenser including a container. The container may include a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic.

The dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump. The valve may comprise a flexible seal, foam, open cell foam, and/or closed cell foam. In at least one embodiment, the valve may include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump.

The dispenser may include a barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump. The barrier may include one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

At least one of the first zone and second zone may include an adhesive, a tacky polymer and/or a tape, a double sided tape for example. The adhesive, tacky polymer and/or tape may be arranged along the entire first and second zone or some portion thereof. Further, the adhesive, tacky polymer and/or tape may be arranged in a pattern along the first and second zone or some portion thereof, including, for example, helical, longitudinal, horizontal and the like.

The dispenser may further include a flexible bag along at least the first zone, the flexible bag having an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5 (either filled or empty) but in one or more embodiments the coefficient of friction for the inner surface of the bag may between about 0.2 and 0.5 (either filled or empty).

The dispenser may include the pump having at least one of the group consisting of a piston, mechanical drive member, pneumatic drive member and an electrical drive member. The dispenser may include the actuating device incrementally actuating the pump, where the pump is incrementally advanced and/or reversed a predetermined amount. The predetermined amount may be preset or selectable by the user.

The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the second zone.

The actuating device may include one of a group consisting of a actuating device, a button and a squeeze mechanism.

Yet another embodiment relates to a system including a container having a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side. The first interior side may include at least a first zone having a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone having a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The system further may include a flexible bag sized to substantially fit within the containment portion, extending along the entire length of the chamber or a portion thereof.

The pump may include at least one of the group of a piston, mechanical drive member, pneumatic drive member and electrical drive member.

The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the second zone.

The system may include the valve separate from the pump, where the valve may include at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. Alternatively the valve may include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump.

The system may include a barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump. The barrier may include one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

Still another embodiment relates to a system including a container. The container may include a containment portion and a handle portion. The handle portion contains an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump that comprises at least one of a group consisting of a piston, mechanical drive device, pneumatic drive device and electrical drive device. The containment portion defines a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side. The first interior side may include at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. A flexible bag may be sized to substantially fit within the containment portion, extending along the entire length or a portion thereof, wherein the first zone partially adheres to the flexible bag and wherein the piston translates axially through the chamber and everts the flexible bag.

The first tackiness characteristic of the system provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the second zone.

The valve of the system may include a valve separate from the pump. The valve may comprise one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump.

The system may include a barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump. The barrier may comprise one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The flexible bag may include an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5 but may be between about 0.2 and 0.5.

Still another embodiment may include a dispenser including a container. The container may include a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone.

The first tackiness characteristic of the dispenser provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along the second zone.

The dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump. The valve may comprise at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump.

The first zone may include at least one of a tacky polymer, an adhesive, tape, and a high friction material having a coefficient of friction greater than about 0.5.

The dispenser may include a barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump. The barrier may comprise one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

Other embodiments relate to a dispenser including a container and a flexible bag. The container may include a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump. The container may include a containment portion having at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to the flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone.

The dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump. The valve may include one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The barrier may be configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump. The barrier may comprise at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

The flexible bag may include an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5 but embodiments may have the coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5.

Another embodiment may relate to a method of dispensing product. The method may include receiving a flexible bag containing product into a dispenser, the dispenser including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump including a piston, wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. The method may further may include adhering a portion of the flexible bag to the first zone; translating the piston axially; pushing the piston against the flexible bag; and everting the flexible bag responsive to the pushing, wherein the everting comprises detaching a portion of the adhered flexible bag from the first zone and allowing at least a portion of the detached flexible bag to be inserted into the flexible bag.

The method may further include dispensing product through a valve.

Everting may include translating a piston axially such that the piston presses into the flexible bag such that an outer surface of the flexible bag detaches from the first zone responsive to the translation and enters an interior of the bag such that a first area of an inner surface of the flexible bag is brought substantially into contact with a second area of the inner surface, and wherein a greater length the flexible bag translates responsive to greater translation of the piston.

Embodiments may include a system including a container and a flexible bag. The container may include a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion may define a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic. The flexible bag may be sized to substantially fit within the containment portion, wherein the flexible bag may include an inner and outer wall, the outer wall comprising a third tackiness characteristic, wherein the inner surface of the bag has a coefficient less than about 0.5 but embodiments include a coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and 1, in one embodiment between about 0.2 and 0.5.

Yet another embodiment relates to a dispenser including a container. The container may include a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises a tackiness characteristic.

The tackiness characteristic of the dispenser provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least one portion of the first interior side and not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along another portion of the first interior side.

The flexible bag has an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5 but embodiments may have a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. The flexible bag may include at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. Additionally, the flexible bag may include a second zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The flexible bag has opposing first and second ends, wherein at least one of the first and second zones is spaced from at least one of the first and second ends.

FIGS. 36-37 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance with one embodiment. The flexible bag is designed as a basic three-piece unit. The top piece may be made of a film or it may be thermoformed. The middle piece may be made of film and may be formed into a round shape of the desired diameter and length and may include either a fin seal, a lap seal, or preferably may be a tube with no seal. The middle piece is somewhat supple and/or flexible so that it can fold inside of itself rather easily. The bottom as considered here is treated as one piece of the three, but it may be made as an assembly of several pieces. In this embodiment, the bottom may be made of film with at least one fitment attached thereto, or alternatively it may have several fitments attached thereto, depending on the particular needs. The bottom may alternatively be made from a thermoformed piece with at least one fitment attached to it, or alternatively, it may have several fitments attached to it depending on the particular needs. The bottom may alternatively be made from a thermoformed piece with at least one opening therein of a desired size, shape, style or pattern, such as a slit, hole, stars with three or more sides, slits with three or more slits, and the like. The three main flexible bag pieces would be assembled together preferably into a hermetic flexible bag, by heat sealing the components together for example. A peelable or otherwise removeable film cover or other closure may also be part of the bottom to effect a hermetic flexible bag and adaptable to be removed prior to use. It is also contemplated that other flexible bag designs besides round, including for example square with rounded corners, rectangular with rounded corners, triangular with rounded corners, polygonal with rounded corners, oval, elliptical, and the like are contemplated.

FIGS. 38-39 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance with another embodiment. The flexible bag may be made of film that is somewhat supple and/or flexible so that it can fold in on itself rather easily. The flexible bag may be made so that it may be formed into a substantially round shape of the desired diameter and length. The fin seal or lap seal that connects the edges of the film web may be positioned at the top of the flexible bag and may preferably make up one of the four corner seals formed in the corners of the bag. After forming a film sheet into the desired shape, corner seals are formed at the corners and at the corner at which the lateral edges meet. Folds are made in the top and bottom sides of the film sheet inwardly from both corners to bring the folded portions into contact with the inner surfaces of the flexible bag. Once folded inwardly, the folded portions are welded, adhered or otherwise sealed to the sides. As a result, the four corner seals extend outwardly substantially perpendicular to the top and bottom sides of the film sheet, defining an edge of the flexible bag, thereby providing a predetermined shape and structural strength.

Corner Seals may be formed on the top and bottom of the flexible bag as illustrated in FIGS. 38-39. Two Cross Seals may be tucked and formed in the flexible bag and run from the top to the bottom of the flexible bag. The bottom of the flexible bag may have at least one fitment attached to it, or alternatively, it may have several fitments attached to it depending on particular needs. The bottom may also have a flat fitment sealed to it with at least one opening therein of a desired size, shape, style or pattern, including for examples a slit, a hole, stars with three or more sides, slits with three or more slits, and the like. The flexible bag may be assembled preferably into a hermetic flexible bag, by heat sealing for example. A peelable or otherwise removeable film cover or other closure may also be part of the bottom, affecting a hermetic flexible bag if desired and adapted to be removed prior to use. It is also contemplated that the flexible bag may have shapes besides round, such as for example, square with rounded corners, rectangular with rounded corners, triangular with rounded corners, polygonal with rounded corners, oval, elliptical, and the like.

FIGS. 40-42 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance with yet another embodiment. The flexible bag is similar to the flexible bag depicted in FIG. 38-39 except this embodiment may not include Corner Seals on the top of the flexible bag. The top of the flexible bag may include a fin seal or a lap seal (similar to a cross seal). The Cross Seals may or may not be tucked on the top depending on the desired top configuration, but they would still be tucked on the bottom.

FIG. 43 depicts a perspective view of a flexible bag in accordance with still another embodiment. The flexible bag of this embodiment is similar to the flexible bag illustrated in FIGS. 40-42. Embodiments may or may not include Corner Seals.

FIGS. 44-46 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance with yet another embodiment. The flexible bag is similar to the flexible bag of FIG. 43 but filled with product. In at least one embodiment a fin seal or a lap seal may be located in the center of the top of the bag or near the top of the bag so that it has little or no negative effect on how the film folds in on itself during dispensing. The two Cross Seals extending from the top to the bottom may or may not be tucked on the top depending on the desired top configuration.

FIGS. 47-49 depict views of a flexible bag in accordance with one other embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible bag has a spout creating a passage between the flexible bag and the barrier, valve and/or outlets, thereby preventing the product from leaking into the chamber (i.e., backflow). FIG. 50 depicts a perspective view of the dispenser similar to that of FIG. 1 having the flexible bag of FIGS. 47-49 positioned therein. In an alternative embodiment, the flexible bag may include a weakened area (best viewed in FIG. 47) formed using a perforation, a laser score and the like, adapted to form a tear strip. FIG. 47 illustrates that the weakened portion passes through the spout. One skilled in the art would recognize that the spout may be only partly weakened or scored, such that the score only passes through a portion of the spout layer using a laser for example, enabling the spout to be easily opened while preventing leaking prior to opening. Alternatively, the weakened area may only include the end of the flexible bag and not the spout (see FIGS. 51, 62 and 73 for example). This enables the flexible bag to be easily opened while preventing spilling. It should be appreciated that, while FIG. 47 depicts dimensions and weights, such dimensions and weights are for illustrative purposes only, and do not otherwise limit the scope of the invention,

The flexible bag may be formed from a sheet of film having a composition and structure appropriate for the product to be stored therein, and that may be designed to exhibit desired characteristics after disposal of the package or bag. The sheet of film for the flexible bag may be formed from materials such as polypropylene (PP), ethyl vinyl alcohol, polyethylene, EVA co-polymers, foil (such as aluminum foil), paper, polyester (PE), nylon (poly amide), and/or composites thereof. In other embodiments, the sheet of film may be formed from metalized oriented polypropylene (OPP) or metalized polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or combinations of such materials. Still further, the sheet of film may include or be infused with a degradable or biodegradable component that may allow the container to degrade in a relatively short amount of time after its useful life; the film may include an outer ply of heat sealable oriented polypropylene or other material suitable for heat sealing.

The fitment may be made from any appropriate material having the necessary properties to be sealed to the flexible bag. For example, the fitment may be made from a plastic material, such as PE, polyethylene terephthalate (PETE), polyactic acid (PLA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), PP, and the like, by means of an appropriate forming process, such as thermoforming, injection molding, casting or blow molding. As with the sheet of film, the fitment material may also include a degradable or biodegradable component to facilitate the breakdown after disposal. In alternative embodiments, the flexible bag may be constructed with fitments having varying configurations, or without lid fitments. Still further, the fitment may be eliminated completely in favor of the recloseable flap, and the like.

FIGS. 36-39 and 44-46 depict the flexible bag having tape, where the tape may include single-sided or double-sided tape or the like, fixed to one or more portions of wall. As illustrated, the tape includes double-sided tape fixed to opposing sides of wall and adapted to contact the first zone and/or second zone. However, different embodiments are contemplated. For example the tape may include double-sided tape fixed to only one portion of wall or on three or more sides of wall. Additional embodiments include tape comprising a single-sided tape adapted to be secured by the containment portion. One or more films may be formed having peelable properties, where the films may be peeled or pulled apart. Alternatively, the flexible bag may not include any tape but may include an adhesive, a tacky polymer and the like as provided herein.

One embodiment of the invention relates to a film used to form a flexible bag for example. In at least one embodiment, the film comprises one or more flexible or supple layers, where the film is adapted to be folded over on itself, forming a fold with a small or tight radius without cracking. In one or more embodiments, the film comprises at least two layers, one layer comprising a sealant, while one or more other layers may comprise a different material, a polyester for example.

In at least one embodiment, the film includes one or more edges and opposing first and second surfaces, where the two surfaces have different coefficients of friction (static coefficients of friction for example). For example, the first surface may have a static coefficient of friction of 0.5 or less (between 0.2 and 0.5, for example), while the second surface may have a static coefficient of friction of 0.5 or more (0.6 and 1.0 for example).

In at least one embodiment, the film may include at least a first zone of at least one of the first and second surfaces resisting the film slipping along the first zone and a second zone of the at least one of the first and second surfaces which does not resist the film slipping along the second zone. At least one of the first and second zones may include a tackiness characteristic, including a tacky polymer, a tape (double-sided tape for example) and the like.

The film may have a composition and structure appropriate for the product to be stored therein, and that may be designed to exhibit desired characteristics after disposal of the package or bag. The film may be formed from materials such as polypropylene (PP), ethyl vinyl alcohol, polyethylene, EVA co-polymers, foil (such as aluminum foil), paper, polyester (PE), nylon (poly amide), and/or composites thereof. In other embodiments, the sheet of film may be formed from metalized oriented polypropylene (OPP) or metalized polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or combinations of such materials. Still further, the sheet of film may include or be infused with a degradable or biodegradable component that may allow the container to degrade in a relatively short amount of time after its useful life; the film may include an outer ply of heat sealable oriented polypropylene or other material suitable for heat sealing.

FIGS. 51-61 depict views of a flexible bag 400 formed from a film 410 similar to that provided previously, in accordance with one other embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible bag 400 illustrated in FIG. 51-61 has a spout 412 creating a passage between the flexible bag 400 and the barrier, valve and/or outlets, thereby preventing the product from leaking into the chamber (i.e., backflow). In at least one embodiment, the flexible bag 400 may include a weakened area 414 (best viewed in FIGS. 58-61) formed using perforations, laser perforations, laser scoring and the like, on one or both sides of the flexible bag 400 and adapted to form a tear strip 416. In one or more embodiments, the weakened area 414 may be formed having a tearing direction, such that the flexible bag 400 may be torn open only along the tearing direction. Further, the flexible bag 400 may include a location device. As illustrated in FIGS. 58-61, the location device may comprise one or more holes 418 and alignment markings (not shown) on one end for positioning the flexible bag 400 in a dispenser (about lugs or pins therein for example) and/or one or more alignment markings on an opposing end. It should be appreciated that, while FIG. 51 depicts dimensions and weights, such dimensions and weights are for illustrative purposes only, and do not otherwise limit the scope of the invention.

As illustrated, flexible bag 400 may include a first end 420, a second end 422, and wall 424 extending there between, where at least wall 424 (having first and second surfaces for example) contacts or engages first interior side and/or first zone and second zone. First end 420, second end 422 and wall 424 define a pouch adapted to be filled and sealed.

FIGS. 62-73 depict views of a flexible bag 400 formed from a film similar to that provided previously, in accordance with one other embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible bag 400 illustrated in FIG. 62-73 has a spout 412 creating a passage between the flexible bag 400 and the barrier, valve and/or outlets, thereby preventing the product from leaking into the chamber (i.e., backflow). In at least one embodiment, the flexible bag 400 may be include a weakened area 414 (best viewed in FIGS. 69-72) formed using perforations, laser perforations, laser scoring and the like on one or both sides, adapted to form a tear strip 416. In one or more embodiments, the weakened area 414 may be formed having a tearing direction, such that the flexible bag 400 may be torn open only along the tearing direction. Further, the flexible bag 400 may include one or more location devices. As illustrated in FIGS. 69-72, the location device may comprise one or more holes 418 and alignment markings on one end for positioning the flexible bag 400 in a dispenser (about lugs or pins therein for example) and/or one or more alignment markings on an opposing end. It should be appreciated that, while FIG. 62 depicts dimensions and weights, such dimensions and weights are for illustrative purposes only, and do not otherwise limit the scope of the invention,

FIGS. 73-83 depict views of a flexible bag 400 formed from a film similar to that provided previously, in accordance with one other embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible bag illustrated in FIG. 73-83 has a spout 412 creating a passage between the flexible bag 400 and the barrier, valve and/or outlets, thereby preventing the product from leaking into the chamber (i.e., backflow). In at least one embodiment, the flexible bag 400 may be include a weakened area 414 (best viewed in FIGS. 80-83) formed using perforations, laser perforations, laser scoring and the like on one or both sides of the flexible bag, adapted to form a tear strip 416. In one or more embodiments, the weakened area 414 may be formed having a tearing direction, such that the flexible bag 400 to be torn open only along the tearing direction. Further, the flexible bag 400 may include a location device. As illustrated in FIGS. 80-83, the location device may comprise one or more holes 418 and alignment markings on one end for positioning the flexible bag in a dispenser (about lugs or pins therein for example) and/or one or more alignment markings on an opposing end. It should be appreciated that, while FIG. 73 depicts dimensions and weights, such dimensions and weights are for illustrative purposes only, and do not otherwise limit the scope of the invention.

FIGS. 84-149 illustrate a dispenser 500 having a clam shell arrangement for example including a containment portion 510, a handle portion 512 and a lock 532. The handle portion 512 may include a trigger or actuating device 516 (having one or more springs or other biasing devices) to selectively actuate a pump or piston a predetermined distance and dispense a predetermined amount of product. FIGS. 84-116 depict the dispenser 500 in a closed position, having an end cap 518 screwed to or rotatably received by the dispenser 500 using reciprocal threads for example. In one embodiment, the end cap 518 includes a plurality of outlets 520 (1, 3, 5, or more) arranged about at least one end. In the illustrated embodiment, each outlet 520 has at least one valve fitment 522 positioned or secured therein, allowing product to flow there though only when pressure is applied but not when the pressure is relieved, preventing weeping or leakage. Alternatively, the at least one outlet 520 has a predetermined shape (a plus or T for example) which allows product to flow there though only when pressure is applied but not when the pressure is relieved

FIGS. 117-149 illustrate the dispenser of FIGS. 84-116 having a first wall 524 and a second wall 526 connected via hinge 528 forming door 530 in an open configuration. Containment portion 510 defines a chamber 540 including at least a first interior side 542 that comprises at least one or more zones having one or more tackiness characteristics. The at least one or more zones having one or more tackiness characteristics may have a limited useful life, allowing for a limited number of uses, or an extended useful life (i.e., as long as the dispenser, allowing an almost unlimited number of uses.

FIGS. 117-149 depict at least a segmented piston 544 positioned in the chamber 540, which enables emptying the flexible bag positioned therein. Furthermore, the segmented piston 544 is connected to the actuating device having one or more springs or other biasing means, which, upon completion of the application or dispensing a predetermined amount of product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing or reducing weeping by movement of the segmented piston from a first forward position towards a second rearward position.

In at least one embodiment the open dispenser 500 is configured to receive a flexible container (such as flexible bag 400 for example) such that the valve is positioned extending between two opposing ends of the dispenser 500 using one or more positioning devices. The door is closed, such that only the weakened portion and tear strip of the flexible bag extends thereform. In at least one embodiment, the flexible bag includes a weakened area formed using a perforation a laser score on one or more side, forming a tear strip having a tearing direction. The flexible bag is opened along the tear strip in the tearing direction. The end cap is then secured to the dispenser, enabling dispensing of the product and preventing the product from leaking into the chamber (i.e., backflow).

One embodiment, relates to a dispenser including a container having a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a pump. The containment portion defines a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The dispenser may include a valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises one of the group consisting of a flexible seal, a foam, an open cell foam and a closed cell foam. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The dispenser may include a barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises one of the group consisting of open cell foam, closed cell foam and a flexible seal. At least one of the first zone and second zone may include an adhesive, a tacky polymer, tape and/or double sided tape. The dispenser may include at least one of a flexible bag, a flexible package and a flexible container along at least the first zone, where the at least of the flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container have an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5 or a coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and 1.0. Additionally the at least one flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container have an inner and outer surface, the outer surface having a higher coefficient of friction than the inner surface or the outer surface in combination with the first interior side having a lower coefficient of friction than the inner surface. The dispenser may include the pump having at least one of a group consisting of a piston, a mechanical drive member, a pneumatic drive member and an electrical drive member. The actuating device incrementally actuates the pump advancing the actuating device a predetermined amount and/or incrementally reversing a predetermined amount. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the second zone.

Still another embodiment relates to a dispensing system including a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump that includes at least one of a group consisting of a piston, mechanical drive device, pneumatic drive device and electrical drive device; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone includes a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic; and a flexible bag sized to substantially fit within the containment portion, wherein first zone partially holds to the flexible bag and wherein the piston translates axially through the chamber and everts the flexible bag. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone. The system further includes a valve separate from the pump, where the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The system includes at least one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, where the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The flexible bag may include an inner surface with a coefficient less than about 0.5, an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5 or an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. DD

• • One other embodiment relates to a dispenser including a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump, the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone. The dispenser includes a valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The first zone comprises at least one of a tacky polymer, an adhesive, tape, a high friction material having a coefficient of friction greater than about 0.5. The dispenser includes at least one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

One other embodiment relates to a dispenser including a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump, the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. The first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone. The dispenser includes a valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may comprise a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The first zone comprises at least one of a tacky polymer, an adhesive, tape, a high friction material having a coefficient of friction greater than about 0.5. The dispenser includes at least one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

A dispenser includes a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump; a flexible bag; and wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to the flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. The dispenser further includes a valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The valve may include a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump. The dispenser further includes at least one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump, wherein the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal. The may include an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5, or an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. A method of dispensing product includes receiving a flexible bag containing product into a dispenser, the dispenser including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump including a piston, wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to hold to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone; bringing a portion of the flexible bag into contact with the first zone; translating the piston axially; pushing the piston against the flexible bag; and everting the flexible bag responsive to the pushing, wherein the everting comprises separating a portion of the held flexible bag from the first zone and allowing at least a portion of the detached flexible bag to be inserted into itself. The method includes dispensing product through a valve, wherein the everting comprises translating a piston axially such that the piston presses into the flexible bag such that an outer surface of the flexible bag detaches from the first zone responsive to the translation and enters an interior of the bag such that a first area of an inner surface of the flexible bag is brought into proximity with a second area of the inner surface, and wherein at least a portion of the flexible bag translates responsive to translation of the piston. A dispensing system includes a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone includes a first tackiness characteristic; a flexible bag sized to substantially fit within the containment portion, and wherein the flexible bag may include an inner and outer wall, the outer wall includes a third tackiness characteristic, wherein the inner surface has a coefficient of friction less than about 0.2 and 0.5.

A dispenser includes a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump; the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises a tackiness characteristic. The tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least one portion of the first interior side and not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along another portion of the first interior side. The flexible bag has an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5, an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5, or a coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and 1.0. The flexible bag may include at least a first zone including a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone. The flexible bag may include a second zone includes a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic. The flexible bag has opposing first and second ends, wherein the tackiness characteristic is spaced from at least one of the first and second ends.

A dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a product, the dispenser includes a housing having a first wall and a second wall hingedly connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a portion of at least one of the first wall and second wall and loosely adhere to a portion of at least one first wall and the second wall; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biased actuating device; a piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap adapted to be removably, rotatably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one opening adapted to allow flow in only one direction. The piston is a segmented piston. The dispenser includes at least one outlet having a valve fitment that allows product to flow there through in only one direction and/or having a predetermined shape allowing product to flow there though in only one direction. The dispenser may include a tacky portion mounted to at least one of the first wall and the second wall. The dispenser may further include the end cap rotatably connected to the housing and/or a lock securing the first wall and the second wall.

Another embodiment includes a dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a product contained in the flexible bag, the dispenser including a housing having a first wall and a second wall movably connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end; a tacky portion contacting the housing enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhere to a second portion of the tacky portion; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a reversible manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and dispense the product; and an end cap adapted to be removably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction, wherein the handle and segmented piston act in concert, such that upon applying pressure to the flexible bag, everting the flexible bag and dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, and upon completion of dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing the product from weeping. The at least one outlet has a valve fitment that allows product to flow there through in only one direction and/or includes the outlet having a predetermined shape allowing product to flow there though in only one direction. The tacky portion is mounted to at least one of the first wall and the second wall. An end cap is rotatably connected to the housing. The second wall is moveably connected to the first wall via at least one hinge. The dispenser includes a lock securing the first wall and the second wall. The handle further includes a trigger.

A dispenser adapted to dispense a product, the dispenser includes a housing having a first wall and a second d wall movably connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end; a flexible bag received in the chamber and adapted to dispense a product upon application of pressure thereto; a tacky portion mounted to the housing enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhere to a second portion of the tacky portion; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biasing actuating device; a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a reversible manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and dispense the product; and an end cap adapted to be removably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction, wherein the handle and segmented piston act in concert, such that upon applying pressure to the flexible bag that flexible bag everts dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, and upon completion of dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing the product weeping. The dispenser includes at least one outlet having a valve fitment that allows product to flow there through in only one direction. The dispenser further includes the outlet having a predetermined shape allowing product to flow there thought in only one direction. The dispenser includes the end cap rotatably connected to the housing. The second wall is moveably connected to the first wall via at least one hinge.

One other embodiment relates to a method for dispensing a product using a dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag includes a housing having a first wall and a second wall hingedly connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end; a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biased actuating device; a tacky portion mounted to the housing having a first portion and a second portion; a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device; and an end cap adapted to be removably, rotatably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction; the flexible bag formed from a film includes: a first edge; a first surface, the first surface having a first static coefficient; a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface having a static coefficient of friction greater than the first static coefficient; the second surface firmly adhering to the first portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhering to the second portion of the tacky portion; and wherein the at least one layer is joined along at least the first edge and defining a tearing direction that allows the flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing direction; the method includes removing the end cap; moving the first wall away from the secong wall, opening the dispenser and exposing at least the chamber; positioning the flexible bag in the chamber such that at least the tear strip extends from the dispenser; moving the first wall towards the second wall, closing the dispenser; opening the tear strip in the tearing direction; placing the end cap on the dispenser; and actuating the actuating device.

Still another embodiment relates to a film used to form a flexible bag including at least one layer adapted to be folded over on itself without cracking, the at least one layer includes at least one edge; a first surface; a second surface opposite the first surface, at least one of the first or second surface having a coefficient of friction less than 0.5; and wherein the at least one layer is adapted to be joined along the at least one edge, forming the flexible bag and scored, forming a weakened portion. At least one of the first and second surfaces has a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. 93.

The first surface has a static coefficient of friction less than 0.5 and the second surface has a static coefficient of friction greater than 0.5.

The flexible bag formed from a film comprising includes at least one layer adapted to be folded upon itself without cracking, the at least one layer includes a first edge and a second edge; a first surface, the first surface having a static coefficient of friction less than 0.5; a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface having a static coefficient of friction greater than 0.5; and wherein the at least one layer is joined along at least the first edge, forming the flexible bag and the second end is scored defining a tearing direction that allows the flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing direction. The first surface has a static coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5. The flexible bag includes at least a first zone of at least the first surface resists the film slipping along the first zone and a second zone of the second surface does not resist the film slipping along the second zone. The flexible bag further includes at least one location device, comprises at least one hole and/or at least one location device comprises at least one marking on the bag.

While the embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are presently considered to be preferred, various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is indicated in the appended claims, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalents are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims

1. A dispenser comprising:

a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a pump,

the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic.

2. The dispenser of claim 1 further comprising a valve separate from the pump, wherein the valve comprises one of the group consisting of a flexible seal, a foam, an open cell foam and a closed cell foam.

3. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the valve comprises a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump.

4. The dispenser of claim 1 further comprising a barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump.

5. The dispenser of claim 4 wherein the barrier comprises one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

6. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first zone and second zone may include an adhesive.

7. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first zone and second zone may include a tacky polymer.

8. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein at least one of the first zone and second zone may include tape.

9. The dispenser of claim 8 wherein the tape is a double sided tape.

10. The dispenser of claim 1 further comprising at least one of a flexible bag, a flexible package and a flexible container along at least the first zone.

11. The dispenser of claim 10 wherein the at least one of the flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container having an inner surface with a coefficient of friction less than about 0.5.

12. The dispenser of claim 10 further comprising the at least one flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container having an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.2 and 0.5.

13. The dispenser of claim 10 further comprising the flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container having an inner surface with a coefficient of friction between about 0.1 and 1.0.

14. The dispenser of claim 10 further comprising the at least one flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container having an inner and outer surface, the outer surface having a higher coefficient of friction than the inner surface.

15. The dispenser of claim 10 further comprising the at least one flexible bag, the flexible package and the flexible container having an inner and outer surface, the outer surface in combination with at least the first interior side having a lower coefficient of friction than the inner surface.

16. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the pump comprises at least one of a group consisting of a piston, a mechanical drive member, a pneumatic drive member and an electrical drive member.

18. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the actuating device incrementally actuates the pump.

19. The device of claim 18 wherein the pump is incrementally advanced a predetermined amount.

20. The device of claim 18 wherein the pump is incrementally reversed a predetermined amount.

21. The dispenser of claim 1 wherein the first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist the flexible bag slipping along the second zone.

22. A dispensing system comprising:

a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuating device to selectively actuate a pump;

the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic; and

at least one of a flexible bag, a flexible package and a flexable container sized to fit within the containment portion.

23. A dispensing system comprising:

a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump that comprises at least one of a group consisting of a piston, mechanical drive device, pneumatic drive device and electrical drive device;

the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic and a second zone comprising a second tackiness characteristic, such that the first tackiness characteristic exceeds the second tackiness characteristic; and

at least one of a flexible bag, a flexible package and a flexible container sized to fit within the containment portion, wherein first zone partially holds to the flexible bag and wherein the piston translates axially through the chamber and everts the flexible bag.

24. A dispenser comprising:

a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump,

the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone.

25. The dispenser of claim 24 wherein the first tackiness characteristic provides a degree of tackiness sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the first zone, and wherein the second tackiness characteristic is not sufficient to resist a flexible bag slipping along at least the second zone.

26. The dispenser of claim 24 further comprising a valve separate from the pump.

27. The dispenser of claim 24 wherein the valve comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

28. The dispenser of claim 26 wherein the valve comprises a mechanical device for selective actuation of the valve responsive to actuation of the pump.

29. The dispenser of claim 24 wherein the first zone comprises at least one of a tacky polymer, an adhesive, tape, a high friction material having a coefficient of friction greater than about 0.5.

30. The dispenser of claim 24 further comprising at least one barrier configured to open responsive to increased pressure resulting from actuation of the pump.

31. The dispenser of claim 24 wherein the barrier comprises at least one of the group consisting of an open cell foam, a closed cell foam and a flexible seal.

32. A dispenser comprising:

a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuation device to selectively actuate a pump,

a flexible bag; and wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to adhere to the flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone.

33. A method of dispensing product comprising:

receiving a flexible bag containing product into a dispenser, the dispenser including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump including a piston, wherein the containment portion may include at least a first zone comprising a first tackiness characteristic sufficient to hold to a flexible bag while allowing the flexible bag to evert by pulling away from the first zone;

bringing a portion of the flexible bag into contact with the first zone;

translating the piston axially;

pushing the piston against the flexible bag; and

everting the flexible bag responsive to the pushing, wherein the everting comprises separating a portion of the held flexible bag from the first zone and allowing at least a portion of the detached flexible bag to be inserted into itself.

34. A dispenser comprising:

a container including a containment portion and a handle portion, the handle portion containing an actuator device to selectively actuate a pump,

the containment portion defining a chamber, wherein the chamber may include at least a first interior side, and wherein the first interior side comprises a tackiness characteristic.

35. A dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a product, the dispenser comprising:

a housing having a first wall and a second wall hingedly connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a portion of at least one of the first wall and second wall and loosely adhere to a portion of at least one second wall and the first wall;

a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biased actuating device;

a piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device; and

an end cap adapted to be removably, rotatably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one opening adapted to allow flow in only one direction.

36. The dispenser of claim 35 wherein the piston is a segmented piston.

37. The dispenser of claim 35 wherein the at least one outlet having a valve fitment that allows product to flow there through in only one direction.

38. The dispenser of claim 35 further comprising the outlet having a predetermined shape allowing product to flow there though in only one direction.

39. The dispenser of claim 35 further comprising a tacky portion mounted to at least one of the first wall and the second wall.

40. The dispenser of claim 35 further comprising the end cap rotatably connected to the housing.

41. The dispenser of claim 35 further comprising a lock securing the first wall and the second wall.

42. A dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag and dispense a product contained in the flexible bag, the dispenser comprising:

a housing having a first wall and a second wall movably connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end;

a tacky portion contacting the housing enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhere to a second portion of the tacky portion;

a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a reversely biasing actuating device;

a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a reversible manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and dispense the product; and

an end cap adapted to be removably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction, wherein the handle and segmented piston act in concert, such that upon applying pressure to the flexible bag, everting the flexible bag and dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, and upon completion of dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing the product from weeping.

43. A dispenser adapted to dispense a product, the dispenser comprising:

a housing having a first wall and a second wall movably connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end;

a flexible bag received in the chamber and adapted to dispense a product upon application of pressure thereto;

a tacky portion mounted to the housing enabling the flexible bag to firmly adhere to a first portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhere to a second portion of the tacky portion;

a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biasing actuating device;

a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device enabling the segmented piston to advance in a reversible manner, applying pressure to the flexible bag and dispense the product; and

an end cap adapted to be removably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction, wherein the handle and segmented piston act in concert, such that upon applying pressure to the flexible bag that flexible bag everts dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, and upon completion of dispensing a predetermined amount of the product, relieves any residual pressure on the flexible bag, preventing the product weeping.

44. A method for dispensing a product using a dispenser adapted to receive a flexible bag comprising: and

the dispenser comprising:

a housing having a first wall and a second wall hingedly connected to the first wall and defining a chamber having a first end and a second end;

a handle located proximate the chamber first end and having a trigger and a reversely biased actuating device;

a tacky portion mounted to the housing having a first portion and a second portion;

a segmented piston positioned in the chamber and actionably coupled to at least the actuating device; and

an end cap adapted to be removably, rotatably received by the housing proximate the second end, the end cap defining at least one outlet adapted to allow flow in only one direction;

the flexible bag formed from a film comprising: a first edge;

a first surface, the first surface having a first static coefficient;

a second surface opposite the first surface, the second surface having a static coefficient of friction greater than the first static coefficient;

the second surface firmly adhering to the first portion of the tacky portion and loosely adhering to the second portion of the tacky portion;

wherein the at least one layer is joined along at least the first edge and defining a tearing direction that allows the flexible bag to be torn open only along the tearing direction;

the method comprising:

removing the end cap;

moving the first wall away from the secong wall, opening the dispenser and exposing at least the chamber;

positioning the flexible bag in the chamber such that at least the tear strip extends from the dispenser;

moving the first wall towards the second wall, closing the dispenser;

opening the tear strip in the tearing direction;

placing the end cap on the dispenser; and

actuating the actuating device.