EXPANDER DEVICE FOR KEEPING AN OPENING IN FOOD PACKAGING OPEN

Abstract

The invention relates to an expander device (100) for keeping a pouch opening (411) of a pouch (400) open. The expander device (100) comprises two elements (110, 120), of which each comprises an inner ring section (111, 121) and an outer section (112, 122). The two elements (110, 120) are rotatably connected to each other about a rotation axis (RA) in a scissor-like manner so that the inner ring sections (111, 121) together form a ring member (130) with a central opening (131), and so that, when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening (131), the outer sections (112, 122) of the elements (110, 120) surround the inner ring sections (111, 121) of the other element (120, 110), respectively. The ring member (130) comprises an outer circumferential fitment section (132) that surrounds the central opening (131) and faces away from the central opening (131) so as to be fitted against an inner side surface (412) of the pouch opening (411). The ring member (130) is convertible between a collapsed position, in which the inner ring sections (111, 121) are angled to each other to span an angle α=αcollapsed, and an expanded position, in which the inner ring sections (111, 121) span an angle α=αexpanded with αcollapsed<αexpanded. The invention further relates to a package system (200) comprising the expander device (100) and a pouch (400), and to a method for use of said package system (200).

Description

1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an expander device for keeping an opening in a pouch open. The present invention also relates to a package system, which comprises the expander device, and to a method of using said package system.

2. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

Consumer products, such as food, cosmetics, cleaning supplies or medicine, are often filled and packaged in bags or pouches large enough to provide consumers with multiple servings. Commonly, the consumer opens the packaging along a tearing line or by cutting an opening in the packaging to access the contents of the packaging. If not all the product is used at once, the consumer is confronted with the problem of storing the remaining content for later use. Depending on the product, the consumer may choose to empty the product from the packaging into a storage box. Alternatively, the consumer may decide to leave the product inside the packaging and close the opened packaging with a clip, adhesive tape or rubber band that are often supplied with the packaging.

A known disadvantage of using a storage box is that there is a risk that substances or microorganisms left inside the storage box may contaminate or damage the product and thus, reduce product integrity and safety. This is particularly problematic for products that demand a high level of hygiene and product integrity and safety, such as food products for infants or vulnerable persons.

While it is possible to circumvent the problem of initial product contamination by simply leaving the product inside the original packaging, it can be found that this solution is not only inefficient, difficult to use and unsuitable for performing accurate product dosing, but also that the initial level of hygiene inside the packaging cannot be maintained over an extended period of time. For example, depending on the size of the opening in the packaging, it can be difficult to retrieve the product inside the packaging with a dosing device, such as a scoop or cup. This problem may be aggravated each time the product filling level decreases. Thus, the dosing accuracy may be limited, inconsistent and/or deteriorate over time. Also, it is often relatively difficult to empty the packaging fully. Thereby, product utilisation is reduced and product is wasted. Further, before retrieving the product from the opened packaging, the user is often required to straighten up the packaging and to widen the opening by inserting fingers or the handle of a spoon to form a suitable access opening. However, this increases the risk of contaminating the product. Moreover, recycling of rubber bands, clips and adhesive tape can be challenging. Often, they are designed for single-use only so that it is difficult to reuse them. Accordingly, every packaging is commonly shipped including such closing means, which leads to a deterioration of the ecological footprint of each packaging.

Thus, it becomes clear that known multi-serve packaging solutions are insufficient for storing and accessing products in a manner required for ensuring hygiene, safety and integrity of the product while keeping the ecological footprint of each packaging low.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a device, a system and a method that allow to overcome known drawbacks of established packaging solutions, respectively. In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide packaging solutions for safely storing the product inside its packaging after being opened while reducing the ecological impact of the packaging solution and ensuring usability, hygiene, product integrity and product safety, respectively.

3. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These and other objects, which become apparent upon reading the description, are solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. The dependent claims refer to preferred embodiments of the invention.

A first aspect of the invention relates to an expander device for keeping a pouch opening of a pouch open. The expander device comprises two elements. Each of the two elements comprises an inner ring section and an outer section. The two elements are rotatably connected to each other about a rotation axis. The two elements are rotatably connected to each other in a scissor-like manner so that the inner ring sections together form a ring member. The ring member at least partially surrounds a central opening. Further, the two elements are rotatably connected to each other in a scissor-like manner so that, when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening, the outer sections of the elements at least partially surround the inner ring sections of the other element, respectively. The ring member comprises an outer circumferential fitment section. Therein, the outer circumferential fitment section at least partially surrounds the central opening and faces away from the central opening for being fitted against an inner side surface of a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening. The ring member is convertible between a collapsed position, in which the inner ring sections are angled to each other to span an angle α=α_collapsed, and an expanded position, in which the inner ring sections are angled to each other to span an angle α=α_expanded. Therein, α_collapsed is smaller than α_expanded.

In other words: an expander device is provided that is suitable for keeping an opening (e.g. an aperture, orifice, perforation) in a pouch open. The expander device comprises two elements that are rotatably connected to each other like a pair of scissors. Therein, for example, the two elements may be connected to each other such that the rotation axis penetrates each of the elements at a portion or (pivot) point within their respective body boundaries. The rotation axis may act as a fulcrum for the two elements. Preferably, the expander device may be configured such (or the elements may be connected to each other such) that the two elements may function as first-class levers. Therein, first-class levers have the fulcrum placed between the load and the effort. Each of the elements comprises an inner ring section. Preferably, the two elements are relatively rotatable (pivotable) to each other. The inner ring section may comprise a (not necessarily (semi-)circular) body that at least partially surrounds an opening or that may be open on one side. Furthermore, each of the elements comprises an outer section. The inner ring section and the outer section together form the element. The two elements are connected to each other (and/or preferably configured) such that the inner ring sections together can form a ring member with a central opening. For example, the ring member may comprise a (not necessarily circular) body with an opening that may be arranged centrally. For example, the ring member may at least partially surround (encircle) a central opening that is formed (or delimited) by the two inner ring sections. The central opening may be defined by outer edges of the two inner ring sections. Preferably, the two inner ring sections may complement each other to form the ring member with the central opening. The ring member comprises an outer circumferential fitment section that faces away from the central opening and that is suitable (or configured) for being fitted inside the pouch opening. Preferably, the circumferential fitment section may be formed by at least one of the two inner ring sections. Fitment of the fitment section against the inner side surface of the pouch opening may be achieved, for example, by the circumferential fitment section being engaged with or applying contact pressure to the inner side surface of the pouch opening. Further, the two elements are connected to each other (and/or preferably configured) so that, when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening, the outer sections of the elements at least partially surround (an external side, i.e. a side facing away from the central opening, of) the inner ring sections of the other element, respectively. Alternatively or additionally, the outer sections may surround (encircle) the circumferential fitment section. For example, if the central opening does not extend within a single plane, a projected area of the central opening delimited by the inner ring sections may be used to determine the (normal) viewing direction. Preferably, (alternatively or additionally,) the viewing direction may be perpendicular to the rotation axis. The ring member is preferably reversibly convertible between two positions, namely, a collapsed position and an expanded position. The collapsed position may be configured for inserting the expander device at least with the outer circumferential fitment section into the pouch via the pouch opening. The expanded position may be configured to provide the central opening as an access opening to the pouch when the outer circumferential fitment section is (circumferentially) fitted against the rim section to keep the pouch opening (by compressive force) open. In each of the two positions, the inner ring sections are angled to each other to span an angle α. Preferably, the angle α is the angle spanned between the inner ring sections when viewed along the rotational axis. The angle α in the collapsed position is smaller than the angle α in the expanded position so that α_collapsed<α_expanded applies.

Thus, a device is provided, by which the pouch opening can be expanded so that, for example, the pouch opening (or pouch material defining the pouch opening) is straightened out, spread out, unfolded, and/or increased in its extension (e.g. diameter, width). This is facilitated by the expander device's capability of being convertible between the following two positions:

• • (i) A first position (the collapsed position) exists for inserting the expander device in the pouch opening. It is advantageous that the outer sections can be used for (manually) holding the expander device and to arrange and align the inner ring sections within the pouch opening in this position. By (manually) adjusting the angle α (e.g. folding or moving the elements together), the expander device can be adapted to access smaller pouch openings or openings that are crumpled or partially obstructed by flexible pouch material. Thereby, the inner ring sections can be used conveniently as guiding means for inserting the expander device in the pouch opening. Also, it is unnecessary to contact any part of the pouch or the pouch opening with hands since the inner ring sections can be guided entirely by the outer sections. Thus, hygiene can be improved.
  • (ii) A second position (the expanded position) exists, where the expander device is securely held in place with respect to the pouch opening. By rotating the two elements relatively to each other to an angular position, where the two inner ring sections span a larger angle than they do in the collapsed position, the circumference and/or the outer circumferential fitment section expands (increases in size) so that through engagement (e.g. pressurizing) of the outer circumferential fitment section against the inner side surface of the pouch opening a holding force can be generated. Thus, the expander device can be secured by being fitted against the inner side surface. Therein, it can be avoided that, for securing the expander device inside the pouch opening, the inner ring sections (that engage with the pouch material) do not be touched at all by the operator. Instead, to secure the expander device in the pouch, the operator may merely press (flatten) the two outer sections towards the pouch, for example, by pressing the flat hand against the outer sections. Thus, a high level of hygiene can be achieved. In addition, the outer sections may increase the strength of the attachment between the pouch and the expander device by enclosing the pouch from the outside. Moreover, by providing the pouch with the central opening as a suitable access opening, it is possible to access the entire content of the packaging more easily. Once the packaging is emptied, the expander device can be cleaned and reused, thereby improving the environmental footprint of the individual packaging.

Thus, the expander device allows to overcome the drawbacks of known packaging solutions.

Preferably, the expander device may be configured such that in operation, it is (preferably only) arrangeable on the pouch such that one side of the central opening faces upwards (i.e. away from the pouch opening), and/or such that it is on the same side with respect to the pouch opening as it is with respect to the central opening.

According to a preferred embodiment, the rotation axis may penetrate an upper rim portion of the expander device or of the ring member in the expanded position. Alternatively or additionally, in the expanded position, the rotation axis may penetrate the expander device adjacent (close/in immediate proximity) to the fitment section.

Thereby, the expander device can be placed deeper inside the pouch opening without colliding with the pouch material. Thus, the expander device can be secured more safely inside the pouch. For example, structures connecting the inner ring section with the corresponding outer section may extend transversely from the inner circumferential fitment section and thereby, block relative movement of the expander device to the pouch along a direction normal to the pouch opening. By placing these structures further outside the pouch opening, the insertion depth can be increased.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the two elements may be biased relative to each other towards the expanded position when being converted from the expanded position to the collapsed position.

Thereby, it is possible to increase the surface pressure exerted by the expander device onto the pouch material in the collapsed position as the elements may be preloaded (pressurized) to resume the expanded position.

According to a preferred embodiment, in the expanded position, the ring member may extend substantially within a plane. Alternatively or additionally, in the expanded position α_expanded may be 180°.

Thereby, the inner ring sections may be angled to each other with a large (maximum) angle α. Thus, the applicable contact pressure can be maximized with this configuration and thereby, the expander device can be secured more safely in the pouch opening.

According to a further preferred embodiment, at least in the expanded position, the ring member (or the outer circumferential fitment section) may extend in a circumferentially closed manner.

Thereby, manufacturing of the expander device can be simplified. Moreover, the closed profile of the ring member facilitates that pressure is exerted equally along the circumference of the circumferential rim section onto the pouch opening. Thereby, the expander device can be secured more safely in the pouch opening.

According to a preferred embodiment, the outer sections may form together an outer ring member that at least partially surrounds the ring member and its central opening when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening and/or the rotational axis. Alternatively or additionally, the outer sections may form together an outer ring member that at least partially surrounds the ring member and its central opening in the expanded position. Preferably, in the expanded position, a gap for receiving the rim section preferably in a squeezed or clamping manner may be formed between the ring member or its fitment section on the one hand and the outer sections on the other hand.

Thereby, structures for surrounding the pouch on an outside surface can be provided. This allows pressurizing the pouch material between the ring member and the outer ring member and thereby, to achieve a particularly strong attachment of the expander device to the pouch. Further, the outer ring member may allow carrying the pouch with the expander device inserted. Also, the expander device may be stopped by the outer ring member from falling into the pouch opening. Thereby, the risk of contaminating the product inside the pouch can be reduced.

Preferably, the inner ring section and the outer section of each element may form together a circumferentially closed profile.

Thereby, mechanical characteristics, e.g. bending stiffness and rigidity, of the individual element can be improved. Also, handling as well as manufacturing can be simplified.

According to a preferred embodiment, the fitment section may at least partially comprise an inhibiting feature, like a structured surface (e.g. comprising a rib and/or dot structure), and/or like an outer inhibiting layer (e.g. a coating, a laminate, a sticker). Preferably, the inhibiting feature may be made of an anti-skid material like rubber.

Thereby, it is possible to increase the friction between the (outward facing) surfaces of the inner ring sections and the inner side surface of the pouch opening so that the expander device is held more firmly in the desired position. For example, the risk can be reduced that the expander device suddenly loosens from the pouch when travelling.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the inner ring section and the outer section of each element may be formed separately or integrally with each other. The inner ring section and the outer section may be formed by separate brackets. Preferably, at least in the expanded position, the expander device, preferably at least its ring member, may have a round, circular, oval, square, rectangular, or polygonal shape. The expander device (or at least or only the ring member) may be made of metal, plastic material or bioplastics, and/or a fiber-based material, such as paper, cardboard, pulp or molded fiber. Preferably, recyclable and/or biodegradable materials may be used. Alternatively or additionally, an antibacterial material or coating may be used. For example, a synthetic or natural resin may be used. More preferred, the expander device may be made from a combination of such materials, such as a combination of polyethylene (PE) and fibre (molded) based materials, or PE and silicon, or PE and a thermoplastic. Also, a combination between metal and plastics may be used as materials for the expander device. However, these are only examples and do not represent a complete enumeration.

Thereby, manufacturing the expander device can be simplified. Also, the expander device can be used in a multitude of different applications.

According to a preferred embodiment, the inner ring section and the outer section of each element may be connected to each other via a connection section. The rotation axis may cross the connection section. Preferably, each element may comprise two connection sections that may be provided on opposite sides with respect to the central opening. The inner ring section of at least one, preferably of each element, may widen at the connection section. Preferably, they may widen in a gradual or stepwise manner. Alternatively or additionally, the respective elements, preferably their respective connection sections, may comprise a pivot structure to cooperate with a pivot structure of the other element to rotatably connect the two elements.

Thereby, arranging the two elements in the specified scissor-like manner is simplified. Moreover, it is possible to use identical layouts for both elements. Thus, operating and manufacturing the expander device can be improved with such configurations.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the expander device may comprise a (n upper) circumferential device rim section for supporting the expander device on a container rim section of a storage container for receiving the pouch with the expander device when being in the expanded position. The device rim section may protrude from the inner ring sections in a direction away from the central opening. Alternatively or additionally, the device rim section may protrude from the outer sections in a direction towards and/or away from the central opening.

Thereby, it is possible to provide the expander device, for example, with a flange-like structure facing towards and/or away from the central opening. This facilitates, for example, exact positioning of the expander device on the pouch and/or the storage container. Moreover, hygiene and product integrity can be improved as product cannot fall between container wall and the pouch when being retrieved from the pouch. Such configuration may allow to avoid rotating the two elements beyond a maximum angle.

According to a preferred embodiment, the expander device, preferably the outer sections, may comprise gripping sections for receiving fingers of a user for gripping. Preferably, the gripping sections may be provided by dents in the expander device or outer sections that project toward the central opening when viewed in the expanded position in a direction perpendicular to the central opening or to the rotation axis.

Thereby, handling of the expander device can be simplified and its ergonomics can be improved. Moreover, the hand span width required for gripping the expander device with one hand can be reduced, thus further improving handling of the expander device.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the expander device may comprise a lid for closing the central opening at least in the expanded position. The lid may be separately provided or integrally formed with the expander device or the ring member.

Thereby, it is possible to increase the functionality of the expander device as it is not only possible to keep the pouch opening open, but also to provide means for closing the pouch after completion of a dosing process, for example. Thus, a pouch being provided with such expander device can be stored advantageously and the product can be kept fresh and hygienic. Moreover, no extra storage box for placing the opened pouch inside may be needed. Thus, the ecological footprint of the packaging solution can be improved.

According to a preferred embodiment, the expander device may comprise (at least one or multiple) support elements for receiving a dosing device at or within the ring member. For example, the dosing device may be a spoon or scoop. Thereby, it is possible to place and store a dosing device at or preferably even within the expander device.

Preferably, the support elements may be provided on each of the two elements, preferably on each of the respective inner ring sections. At least one of the support elements may protrude laterally inward from the ring member (into the central opening). Preferably, the support elements may be arranged opposite to each other (e.g. with respect to the central opening) and/or facing each other. The support elements may be arranged equally distanced from each other along the perimeter (circumference) of the ring member. The support elements may project into the central opening. Preferably, the support elements may be arranged at one of the two opposite ends of the ring member. Preferably, the support elements may (at least) partially cover the central opening. Preferably, the support elements may have a (hollow) semicircle or arc shape.

Preferably, the support elements may be integral with the ring member. However, it is also conceivable that the support elements may be removable or detachable. Preferably, the support elements may extend within the same plane as the ring member.

Alternatively or additionally, the support elements may comprise surface features for securing (attaching/holding) a dosing device to the ring member. For example, the surface features may be fasteners, protruding structures, clips, latches or spring locks, and/or a surface for increasing friction or adhesive forces between the ring member and a dosing device.

A further aspect of the present invention relates to a package system. The package system comprises a pouch carrying a food product. Further, the package system comprises an expander device as described above. The expander device is to be inserted, in the collapsed position of the ring member, at least with the fitment section into a pouch opening of the pouch to keep the pouch opening open by fitment of the fitment section against an inner side surface of a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening when the ring member is converted in the expanded position.

Thereby, all effects described above for the expander device can also be achieved with the package system. Furthermore, it is possible to provide a package system with an expander device that is easy to clean and reusable so that packaging material can be reduced. In particular, the provision of separate elements for retrieving product from the pouch, such as a spout, can be avoided. Therein, it can be achieved that instead of having to provide each pouch with a separate opening means, the expander device only needs to be provided once for the consumer and can be reused subsequently.

According to a preferred embodiment, the package system may further comprise a storage container. The storage container may have a container opening for receiving the pouch and the expander device.

By providing a storage container, pouches that do not possess sufficient rigidity to stand upright on their own can be used more easily in the package system. Such configuration may also be advantageous once filling levels of the product become low. Also, the package system can be used for travelling or in applications subjected to movement.

According to a further preferred embodiment, in the expanded position, the expander device, preferably at least its ring member, may press the rim section towards or against a circumferential inner wall section of the storage container, preferably at or adjacent to the container opening. Preferably, in the expanded position, the rim section may be squeezed or clamped between the ring member and the outer sections.

Thereby, the pouch opening can be kept safely in place inside the storage container. Moreover, with this configuration, it can be ensured that the space inside the storage container is used and that no gaps exist between the storage container and the pouch at least near (adjoining) the container opening. Thus, hygiene can be improved.

According to a preferred embodiment, the package system may further comprise a dosing device. Preferably, the dosing device may be configured to be arrangeable within the central opening such that the dosing device is (entirely enclosed) within the ring member. Preferably, the expander device may be arranged inside the pouch opening such that the dosing device may be received by the support elements at a lower end of the ring member (preferably, the lower end being the end facing towards a substance contained inside the pouch when the expander device is inserted in the pouch opening).

For example, the dosing device may be a spoon or scoop. The dosing device may comprise a handle and a bowl preferably having a defined volume with an opening. The handle may be adjustable in length (e.g. comprising a telescopic slide-out mechanism or by attaching extension elements). Thereby, it is possible to provide a dosing device that is easy to operate and that is adjustable in size (length) to adapt to the size of the central opening, the size of the pouch opening and/or the depth of the pouch.

The handle may comprise structures, such as ribs, for improving the bending stiffness and rigidity of the handle. Thereby, dosing (scooping) of substances can be facilitated that require a certain amount of force to be retrieved. For example, if powdery substances clump together it can be difficult to retrieve the substance without putting some strain on the dosing device.

Preferably, the dosing device (e.g. the handle and the bowl) may extend within a single plane. The handle may extend laterally away from the opening of the bowl. Preferably, the bowl may have a similar (or maximum) height to the height of ring member. Thereby, the dosing accuracy can be improved as excess powder can be removed easily from the bowl. Also, it is possible to place the dosing device on a flat side, which simplifies storage and securing the dosing device.

The dosing device may be made from any material, such as plastic (e.g. PE), metal, and/or a fiber-based material, such as paper, cardboard or pulp. Thereby, the ecological impact of providing a package system with a dosing device can be reduced as the dosing device may be produced from sustainable, recyclable and/or compostable materials.

Preferably, the handle and/or the bowl may be provided with locking structures that may be configured to correspond with the aforementioned surface features provided on the support elements.

A further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for use of a package system. Therein, a package system as described above is provided. The ring member is converted from the expanded position to the collapsed position. The expander device is inserted into the pouch opening at least with the fitment section. The ring member is converted from the collapsed position to the expanded position so that the fitment section fits against the inner side surface of the rim section to keep the pouch opening open. Preferably, the pouch may be opened, for example with an opening device, to provide a pouch opening. The pouch may be closed with a lid suitable for closing the central opening. The lid may be preferably attached to the expander device.

Thereby, it is possible to derive all effects of the package system. The method allows for leaving the product inside its packaging. Advantageously, the packaging commonly already supplies the properties required for safely storing the product. Further, the method allows for a hygienic and safe use of the package system and improves the utilisation of product contained inside the pouch. Filling the product in a separate storage container is not required so that the risk of contaminating the product with external substances or bacteria can be reduced. By providing a reusable expander device that is washable, the environmental impact of using package systems can be improved.

According to a preferred embodiment, a storage container of the package system may be provided. The pouch may be received inside the storage container. Preferably, when converting the ring member from the collapsed position to the expanded position, the rim section may be pressed at least with the ring member towards or against a circumferential inner wall section of the storage container. Alternatively or additionally, the rim section may be preferably pressed at least with the ring member towards or against a circumferential inner wall section of the storage container at or adjacent to the container opening. Optionally, the expander device, once being connected to the pouch, may be attached to (e.g. hung into) the storage container, preferably at the container opening. Preferably, the dosing device may be placed (and secured) inside the expander device. Preferably, the storage container may be closed with a container lid.

Such specifications of the method allow to use pouches that are (significantly) smaller than the provided storage container as the expander device is suitable for providing sufficient holding forces and guidance for using the pouch with the storage container. In addition, the method can be applied to a multitude of different applications.

4. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

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

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of an expander device according to the invention in an expanded position.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the expander device of FIG. 1 in a collapsed position.

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

FIG. 4 shows a simplified further perspective view of the expander device of FIG. 3 in the expanded position.

FIG. 5 shows a simplified perspective view of the expander device of FIG. 3 in the collapsed position.

FIG. 6A shows a schematic side and top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the collapsed position.

FIG. 6B shows a schematic side and top view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the collapsed position.

FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a package system of the invention with a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention.

FIG. 8 shows steps of an embodiment of a method for use of a package system according to the invention with the package system of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 shows steps of a further embodiment of a method for use of a package system according to the invention with the expander device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of an expander device of the invention in the expanded position from above.

FIG. 11 shows a bottom perspective view of the expander device of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the expander device of FIG. 10 with a dosing device from above in the expanded position.

FIG. 13 shows a top perspective view of the arrangement of FIG. 12.

5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The Figures show different views and aspects of different embodiments of the invention.

A first aspect of the present invention relates to an expander device 100 for keeping a pouch opening 411 of a pouch 400 open. FIGS. 1 to 12 show exemplarily different views and aspects of different embodiments of the expander device 100.

An example for the pouch 400 is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9. The pouch 400 may be suitable to carry food products and/or it may carry food products, for example. Preferably, it may carry granular or powdery food products, such as milk powder or coffee beans. However, it is also conceivable that the pouch 400 may carry different food products or non-food products, such as washing powder. The pouch 400 may be provided, for example, as stand-up packaging, sachet, or bag, such as a gusseted bag.

Preferably, the pouch 400 may be made of a paper, cardboard, metallic, metallized and/or plastic material. Preferably, the pouch 400 may be made of a material that comprises at least sufficient rigidity to stand upright on its own. Preferably, the pouch 400 may be made of a stretchable material. The pouch 400 may be circumferentially sealed by heat sealing and/or may comprise tearing lines for opening the pouch 400 along one of its edges to provide an opening therein. Preferably, the pouch 400 may comprise a volume between 200 ml and 10 litres. More preferred, the pouch 400 may comprise a volume between 200 ml and 3.5 litres. However, this is not a complete enumeration and other configurations of the pouch 400 are conceivable.

The pouch 400 may comprise an opening, such as the pouch opening 411, preferably on an upper end or an upper side portion of the pouch 400. FIGS. 8 and 9 show this exemplarily. For example, the pouch opening 411 may be provided by cutting an opening in the pouch 400 or by opening the pouch 400 along one of its edges or sealing lines. Preferably, the pouch opening 411 may comprise a circumferential rim section 412. The circumferential rim section 412 may define the pouch opening 411. The pouch opening 411 may be formed by an inner side surface 413. The inner side surface 413 may comprise the rim section 412. FIGS. 8 and 9 show this exemplarily. The pouch opening 411 may have any shape or form. Preferably, the pouch opening 411 may be round or rectangular. Preferably, the expander device 100 may have a shape, layout or form that may correspond with the shape of the pouch opening 411. The size of the expander device 100 may correspond with or may match the size of the pouch 400 or pouch opening 411.

The expander device 100 may be designed such that it can be handled by an operator with one or two hands. FIGS. 8 and 9 show this exemplarily. A maximum size (diameter or width) of the expander device 100 may be delimited by an average human hand span width.

The expander device 100 may have a preferred operational orientation with respect to the pouch 400. Therein, for example, the expander device 100 may be preferably configured such that in operation, it is arrangeable on the pouch 400 such that one of the expander device's 100 two opposite ends (sides) faces upwards (away) from the pouch opening 411 (thus, being an upper end of the expander device 100) while the respective other end (side) faces towards the pouch opening 411 (thus, being a lower end of the expander device 100). FIGS. 8 to 10, 12 and 13 show such an operational orientation exemplarily. However, the Figures are only examples and the expander device 100 may take other orientations in operation or may be used independently from its orientation.

The expander device 100 comprises two elements 110, 120, which are exemplarily shown in all Figures. The two elements 110, 120 may be identical or similar (e.g. FIG. 6B) to each other, or they may be different from each other (e.g. FIG. 6A). Preferably, at least one of the elements 110, 120 may have a closed profile or may be circumferentially closed. Preferably, at least one of the two elements 110, 120 may have a circular (e.g. FIGS. 7 and 8) or rectangular or quadratic (e.g. FIGS. 1-6, 9) profile. Alternatively or additionally, at least one of the elements 110, 120 may have at least one convex profile portion. Preferably, the expander device 100 or the two elements 110, 120 may be made of metal, plastic material or bioplastics, and/or a fiber-based material, such as paper, cardboard, pulp or molded fiber. Preferably, sustainable, recyclable and/or biodegradable materials may be used. For example, the expander device 100 may be made from pulp or (synthetic or natural) resin. Alternatively or additionally, an antibacterial material or coating may be used. More preferred, the expander device 100 may be made from a combination of such materials, such as a combination of polyethylene (PE) and fibre-based materials, or PE and silicon, or PE and a thermoplastic. Also, a combination between metal and plastics may be used as materials for the expander device 100. However, these are only examples and do not represent a complete enumeration.

Each of the two elements 110, 120 comprises an inner ring section 111, 121 and an outer section 112, 122. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.

The inner ring section 111, 121 and/or the outer section 112, 122 may have any shape or form of a section of a ring-shaped body. For example, the inner ring section(s) 111, 121 and/or the outer section 112, 122 may have a semi-circular layout as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 7, 8 and 10-13, or it may be semi-rectangular or semi-quadratic as exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6 and 9. Preferably, the inner ring section 111, 121 and/or the outer section 112, 122 may comprise a shape with at least one convex side. For example, the inner ring section 111, 121 and/or the outer section 112, 122 may have a U-shape such as exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. Together, the inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122 of each element 110, 120 may form a circumferentially closed profile. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. The inner ring section 111, 121 may be smaller or larger than the respective outer section 112, 122.

The inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122 of each of the two elements 110, 120 may be formed separately or integrally with each other. For example, in FIGS. 1, 2 and 6 to 13 each element 110, 120 may be formed as a unit or single piece by forming the inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122 integrally. However, it is also conceivable that the inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122 of each element 110, 120 may be formed individually by separate brackets. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 3. For example, the individual sections 111, 112, 121, 122 or the individual elements 110, 120 may be formed by injection molding or pulp molding. Alternatively or additionally, metallurgic processes may be used to produce the individual elements 110, 120.

The inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122 of each element 110, 120 may be connected to each other via at least one connection section 113, 123. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. For example, in the Figures, each element 110, 120 is illustrated with two connection sections 113, 123 for connecting the respective parts of the elements 110, 120 to each other. The connection sections 113, 123 may form a transitioning portion between the inner ring section 111, 121 and the outer section 112, 122. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. At the connection section 113, 123, the inner ring section 111, 121 may expand laterally (widen) towards the outer section 112, 122. Preferably, the inner ring section 111, 121 of each element 110, 120 may widen in a stepwise manner at the connection section 113, 123. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 6 and 9 to 13. Alternatively or additionally, the outer section 112, 122 of each element 110, 120 may widen in a stepwise manner at the connection section 113, 123. This is exemplarily shown in FIG. 3. Preferably, the connection section 113, 123 may be formed as a pin or axle and/or a corresponding pin opening or sleeve. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 7, 8 and 10 to 13. The connection section(s) 113, 123 may preferably be integral with the elements 110, 120 such as exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. However, it is also conceivable that the connection section(s) 113, 123 may be components separate from the elements 110, 120.

The elements 110, 120 are rotatably connected to each other about a rotation axis RA. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. Preferably, the expander device 100 may be symmetrical, preferably mirror symmetrical with respect to the rotation axis RA.

Preferably, the rotation axis RA may be defined by pivot structures 151, 152, by which the two elements 110, 120 may be rotatably connected to each other. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. Each of the elements 110, 120 may comprise at least one, preferably two, of the pivot structures 151, 152. The pivot structures 151, 152 may be provided to cooperate with each other. For example, as illustrated in all Figures, the pivot structures 151, 152 may be provided as pin 151 and a corresponding opening 152. For instance, in FIGS. 10 to 13, the pivot structures 151, 152 may be formed by an open cylinder shell and a pin being arranged rotatably therein. However, it is also conceivable that the two elements 110, 120 may be connected by magnets or otherwise. The rotation axis RA may cross the connection section 113, 123. Preferably, the respective connection sections 113, 123 may comprise the pivot structure 151, 152. The connection sections 113, 123 may be formed as the pivot structures 151, 152. Alternatively, the pivot structures 151, 152 may be provided as separate elements.

The two elements 110, 120 are connected to each other rotatably about the rotation axis RA in a scissor-like manner so that the inner ring sections 111, 121 together form a ring member 130, by which a central opening 131 is at least partially surrounded. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.

The ring member 130 may take different shapes and forms depending on a rotational arrangement the two elements 110, 120 may have relatively to each other. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. The ring member 130 may be made of the same or a different material than the expander device 100 or the elements 110, 120.

In the Figures, the central opening 131 is exemplarily illustrated as being completely surrounded by the inner ring sections 111, 121. However, this is not to be considered delimiting. Preferably, the shape of the central opening 131 may be defined by the shape of the inner ring sections 111, 121. The central opening 131 may completely penetrate the ring member 130 and/or the expander device 100. For example, the central opening 110 may form a passage between opposite ends (e.g. the upper end and the lower end) or sides of the expander device 100.

The ring member 130 comprises an outer circumferential fitment section 132 for being fitted against the inner side surface 412 of the circumferential rim section 413 of the pouch opening 411. The outer circumferential fitment section 132 surrounds at least partially the central opening 131 and faces away from the central opening 131. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.

The outer fitment section 132 may taper with increased distance from one side of the central opening 131 to the other side of the central opening 131. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 3. Preferably, the outer fitment section 132 may at least partially comprise an inhibiting feature (not illustrated). The inhibiting feature may be a structured surface or an outer layer for inhibiting relative movement between the outer fitment section 132 and the inner side surface 412, for example. Therein, the inhibiting structure may be a rib structure or a dot structure. Alternatively or additionally, the inhibiting structure may be a coating, a laminate or a sticker. The inhibiting structure may be made of an anti-skid material like rubber.

The two elements 110, 120 are connected to each other rotatably about the rotation axis RA in a scissor-like manner so that—in a viewing direction perpendicular onto the central opening 131—the outer sections 112, 122 of the elements 110, 120 at least partially surround the inner ring sections 111, 121 of the (respective) other element 120, 110, respectively. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. The illustrations on the right side of FIGS. 6A and 6B show exemplarily a view of the central opening 131 along a direction perpendicular to the central opening 131.

The outer sections 112, 122 may form together an outer ring member 140. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. The outer ring member 140 may at least partially surround the ring member 130 and its central opening 131 when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening 131. FIGS. 1, 3, 6A, 6B and 10 to 13 illustrate this exemplarily. Preferably, the ring member 130 is smaller than the outer ring member 140. Preferably, the outer ring member 140 may be configured and/or may be large enough for placing the expander device 100 over the pouch 400.

The two elements 110, 120 may be pivotably connected to each other such that the inner ring section 111, 121 of one of the elements 110, 120 can pass below the outer section 112, 122 and/or the inner ring section 111, 121 of the respective other element 120, 110. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 6A. Alternatively or additionally, the two elements 110, 120 may be pivotably connected to each other such that the outer section 112, 122 of one of the elements 110, 120 may not pass underneath the outer section 122, 112 of the other element 120, 110. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 6B. Preferably, the two elements 110, 120 may be arranged symmetrically to each other with respect to the rotation axis RA, such as illustrated exemplarily in FIG. 6B. Alternatively, at least one of the elements 110, 120 may be arranged offset from the rotation axis RA. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 6A, where one of the elements, namely element 110, is arranged offset from the centre of the other element, namely element 120.

The ring member 130 is convertible between at least two positions, in which the inner ring sections 111, 121 span an angle α, respectively:

One of the positions is a collapsed position for inserting the expander device 100 at least with the fitment section 132 into the pouch 400 via the pouch opening 411. In the collapsed position, the inner ring sections 111, 121 are angled to each other to span an angle α=α_collapsed. FIGS. 2, 5, 6, 8 and 9 exemplarily show this position of the ring member 130.

Another position is an expanded position to provide the central opening 131 as an access opening to the pouch 400 when the fitment section 132 is (circumferentially) fitted against the rim section 413 to keep the pouch opening 411 (e.g. by compressive force) open. In the expanded position, the inner ring sections 111, 121 span an angle α=α_expanded with α_collapsed<C_expanded. The ring member 130 is exemplarily illustrated in this position in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, and 8 to 13.

Preferably, in the expanded position, the ring member 130 may extend substantially within a plane and/or α_expanded may be 180°. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3, 4, and 8 to 13. However, it is also conceivable that the angle α may be different in the expanded position. Preferably, α_expanded=180° may be a maximum value for α_expanded. It is conceivable that a blocking portion may be provided on at least one of the elements 110, 120 (preferably the outer sections 112, 122) for stopping relative rotation of the two elements 110, 120 beyond a certain angle. In FIG. 2, the blocking portion is exemplarily illustrated as a step 170 that extends laterally from the outer section 112 (along the rotation axis RA) so that the inner ring section 121 of the respective other element 120 cannot be relatively turned beyond a certain angle.

The Figures illustrate exemplarily that, at least in the expanded position, the ring member 130 or the outer circumferential fitment section 132 may extend in a circumferentially closed manner. FIGS. 6A and 6B show that such configuration may be found also in a position, where α_expanded may be smaller than 180°. Moreover, at least in the expanded position, the rotation axis RA may penetrate an upper rim portion 135 of the ring member 130 preferably adjacent (e.g. within 1 mm to 20 mm) to the fitment section 132. Also, in the expanded position, a gap for receiving the rim section 413 preferably in a squeezed or clamping manner may be formed between the ring member 130 or its fitment section 132 on the one hand, and the outer sections 112, 122 on the other hand. Further, at least in the expanded position, the expander device 100 (or at least its ring member 130), may have a round, circular, oval, square, rectangular, or polygonal shape. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures.

Generally, the central opening 131 may have any shape and form. For example, at least in the expanded position, the central opening 131 may have a round, circular, oval, square, rectangular, or polygonal shape. This is exemplarily illustrated in all Figures. Preferably, at least in the expanded position, the central opening 131 may have dimensions, such as width or diameter, that may be sufficient for accessing the inside of the pouch 400 with a dosing device, like a spoon or cup. For example, the central opening 131 may have a diameter within the range of 1 cm to 30 cm. Preferably, the central opening 131 may be centred with respect to the ring member 130 at least in the expanded position. Preferably, in the expanded position, the ring member 130 may have a lateral extension (i.e. length and/or width, for example) in one extension direction (within the plane) of 3 cm to 90 cm, more preferred of 3 cm to 35 cm.

Generally, it is to be noted that while the Figures may show only individual examples for the respective two positions of the ring member 130, it may be still possible to arrange the ring member 130 in different positions that may still fall within the specifics of the configurations of a “collapsed position” or of an “expanded position” as defined above. Thus, if, for instance, the pouch material cannot be compressed or expanded by the ring member 130 in the manner illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the ring member 130 may take a position different from the illustrated positions, which, however, could still be compliant with the definition of the expanded position.

The two elements 110, 120 may be biased relative to each other towards the expanded position when being converted from the expanded position to the collapsed position.

The expander device 100 may comprise a lid for closing the central opening 131 at least in the expanded position (not illustrated). The lid may be provided separately or it may be integrally formed with the expander device 100 or the ring member 130. For example, the lid may be connected to the expander device 100 via a hinge.

The expander device 100 may comprise (preferably at the outer sections 112, 122) gripping sections for receiving fingers 700 of a user for gripping the outer sections 112, 122 and/or the expander device 100 (not illustrated). The gripping sections may be provided by dents in the expander device 100 or the outer sections 112, 122. The dents may project toward the central opening 131 when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening 131.

Preferably, the expander device 100 may comprise at least one support element 191, 192 for receiving a dosing device (such as the below described dosing device 300) within (and/or inside) the ring member 130 (in the expanded position). Preferably, two or more support elements 191, 192 may be provided. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 13.

The support elements 191, 192 may have any configuration (shape, size, and/or their respective arrangement within the ring member 130) that is suitable for blocking a dosing device from falling through the central opening 131 at least when the expander device 100 is in the expanded position. The support elements 191, 192 may be configured such that a dosing device is storable inside the ring member 130. For example, the support elements 191, 192 may be a platform or a ledge protruding laterally inward from the inner ring sections 111, 121, respectively. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 13. By providing the support elements 191, 192 in this manner, a dosing device can be stored securely within the expander device 100. Thereby, the risk of contaminating the interior of the pouch 400 can be reduced since the operator can place a dosing device immediately after its usage inside the expander device 100 and thus, any contact of a dosing device with external surfaces or substances can be avoided.

At least one of the support elements 191, 192 may protrude laterally inward from the ring member 130 (into the central opening 131). Thereby, the support elements 191, 192 may (at least) partially cover the central opening 131. Preferably, the support elements 191, 192 may be arranged opposite to each other with respect to (the center of) the central opening 131. Preferably, the support elements 191, 192 may be arranged at a (lower or upper) rim section the ring member 130. Thereby, most of the space defined by the ring member 130 in the expanded position can be utilised for storing a dosing device inside the ring member 130. The support elements 191, 192 may at least partially extend in an extension direction of the central opening 131. The support elements 191, 192 may be provided integral with the ring member 130, preferably integral with the inner ring sections 111, 121. This is exemplarily shown in FIGS. 10-13. Preferably, the support elements 191, 192 may be arranged and/or distributed along an inner edge of the ring member 130 (perimeter of the central opening 131). The support elements 191, 192 may be arranged mirror symmetrically with respect to the rotation axis RA. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 13.

The support elements 191, 192 may have the same shape and size, or they may be configured to be different from each other. For example, the support elements 191, 192 may have a (hollow) semicircle, arc or bow shape. This is exemplarily shown in FIGS. 10 to 13. Therein, a first support element 191 is exemplarily shown with a semicircle shape. In this illustrated example, a second support element 192 has the shape of a segment of a semicircle. These are only examples and other shapes are conceivable.

Further, the support elements 191, 192 may comprise surface features for securing (attaching/holding) a dosing device to (inside) the ring member 130 at least in the expanded position. For example, the surface features may be fasteners, protruding structures, clips, latches or spring locks, and/or a surface layer for increasing friction and/or adhesive forces between the ring member 130 (or the support elements 191, 192) and a dosing device. Thereby, it can be achieved that a dosing device is kept by the support elements 191, 192 not only from falling through the central opening 131 but it can also be secured (fixed) in a defined position within the expander device 100.

A further aspect of the invention relates to a package system 200. FIGS. 7 to 9 show different embodiments of the package system 200.

The package system 200 comprises at least one pouch 400 containing a food product. The pouch 400 may be the same, similar or different from the pouch 400 described before. The package system 200 further comprises the expander device 100 as described above. Therein, the expander device 100 is to be inserted at least with the fitment section 132 into the pouch opening 411 in the collapsed position of the ring member 130 so to keep the pouch opening 411 open by fitment of the fitment section 132 against the inner side surface 412 of the pouch opening 411 by converting the ring member 130 in the expanded position.

Preferably, the package system 200 may further comprise a storage container 500 with a container opening 511, which may be suitable for receiving the pouch 400 and the expander device 100.

The storage container 500 is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9. The storage container 500 may have any shape or form. The storage container 500 may be suitable for receiving the pouch 400 and the expander device 100. Preferably, the storage container 500 may have a volume between 200 ml and 10 l. The storage container 500 may be made of a glass, metal, plastic and/or paper material. Preferably, the storage container 500 may have an opening, such as the container opening 511, on one (an upper) end. The container opening 511 may comprise a container rim section 513. Preferably, the container opening 511 may be defined (on the inside) by the container rim section 513. A circumferential inner wall of the storage container 500 may define the inside of the storage container 500. A circumferential inner wall section 512 may be adjacent to the container opening 511. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 7.

The expander device 100 may be configured to sit on or be fitted onto the storage container 500. Preferably, the shape of the expander device 100 may correspond with the shape of the container opening 511. For example, the expander device 100 may be fitted with the ring member 130 into the container opening 511 and to surround the container opening 511 from the outside with the outer ring member 140. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9. For supporting the expander device 100 on the container rim section 513, the expander device 100 may comprise a circumferential device rim section protruding away from the central opening 131 when being in the expanded position. The device rim section may function, for example, as a collar, by which relative movement of the expander device 100 with respect to the storage container 500 and/or the pouch 400 may be restricted in at least one, preferably at least two directions.

Further, in the expanded position, the expander device 100 (the ring member 130) may be configured to press the rim section 413 of the pouch opening 411 towards or against the circumferential inner wall section 512, which may preferably at or adjacent to the container opening 511. For example, the inner wall section 512 may be at a distance of up to 5 cm from the container opening 511, more preferred within 0.2 cm to 5 cm from the container opening 511. Alternatively or additionally, in the expanded position, the rim section 413 of the pouch 400 may be squeezed or clamped between the ring member 130 and the outer sections 112, 122 of the expander device 100.

The package system 200 may also comprise a container lid 550 for closing the storage container 500. The container lid 550 may be a snap on lid, for example. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 9. Alternatively or additionally, the container lid 550 may be connected to the container 500 via a hinge. Preferably, the container lid 550 may be a twist-off lid.

The package system 200 may further comprise a dosing device 300 for measuring and dispensing a suitable amount of product contained inside the pouch 400. For example, the dosing device 300 may be a scoop, spoon or measuring cup. FIGS. 8, 9 and 12 to 13 show the dosing device 300 exemplarily.

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

Preferably, the bowl 320 may have a defined volume that may be open towards one side in a filling direction. The bowl 320 may comprise a defined surface structure. For example, slits penetrating a portion of the bowl 320 or ribs protruding therefrom may be provided as such surface structure. For example, the ribs may be used to indicate a defined filling level. Preferably, the bowl 320 may have a similar height as the ring member 130 in the expanded position so that the dosing device 300 can fit inside (within) the expander device 100 (being in the expanded position). Thereby, the dosing device 300 can be stored inside the expander device 100.

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

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

It is also conceivable that, for example, the handle 310 and/or the bowl 320 may be provided with locking structures that may be configured to correspond with the surface features provided on the support elements 191, 192. The dosing device 300 may have a length that is larger than the distance (gap) between the two opposite support elements 191, 192. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13.

Preferably, the expander device 100 may be arranged inside the pouch opening 411 such that-in the connected state of the pouch 400 and the expander device 100—the support elements 191, 192 are at the lower end of the expander device 100. FIGS. 10, 12 and 13 illustrate this orientation of the expander device 100 exemplarily. Thereby, it can be achieved that the dosing device 300 can be stored within the expander device 100 while not contacting any part of the substance contained inside the pouch 400. Accordingly, the risk of a user touching the substance when retrieving the dosing device 300 from the pouch 400 can be reduced.

Preferably, the dosing device 300 and the expander device 100 may be configured such that the dosing device 300 may be placeable onto the support elements 191, 192 such that the opening of the volume of the bowl 320 faces towards the lower end of the expander device 100 (and thus, towards the substance contained inside the pouch 400). Thereby, substances from a previous dosing process can fall back into the pouch 400 so that an accumulation and waste of substance can be reduced. The dosing device 300 may be placed and/or stored inside the expander device 100 in the expanded position.

Moreover, the package system 200 may also comprise an opening device 600 for opening the pouch 400. For example, the opening device 600 may be scissors. FIGS. 7 to 9 show this exemplarily.

A further aspect of the present invention relates to a method for use of the package system 200. FIGS. 8 and 9 show exemplarily various steps of different embodiments of a method for use of the package system 200.

The method comprises the step of providing the package system 200 as described above. Preferably, the package system 200 may be provided with the storage container 500. The pouch 400 may be placed inside the storage container 500. Preferably, the pouch 400 may be opened, e.g. by hand 700 tearing a tearing line or with the opening device 600, to provide the pouch with an opening, such as the pouch opening 411. This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9.

The package system 200 is provided such that the ring member 130 is already in the collapsed position. Alternatively, the expander device 100 is provided in the expanded position and the ring member 130 is converted to the collapsed position. For example, the hand 700 may be used to push together the inner ring sections 111, 121 along the directions AD indicated by arrows in FIG. 8.

The expander device 100 is inserted at least with the fitment section 132 into the pouch opening 411. The ring member 130 is converted from the collapsed position to the expanded position so that the fitment section 132 fits against the inner side surface 412 of the rim section 413 to keep the pouch opening 411 open. Optionally, when converting the ring member 130 from the collapsed position to the expanded position, the rim section 413 of the pouch 400 may be pressed at least with the ring member 130 towards or against a circumferential inner wall section 512 of the storage container 500 (preferably at or adjacent to the container opening 511). This is exemplarily illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9.

Thereby, for example, the pouch opening 411 may be converted from a folded configuration that is less accessible to an unfolded configuration that allows easy access to the product inside the pouch 400. This is exemplarily indicated by gussets blocking the available space in the pouch opening 411 in FIGS. 8 and 9.

Preferably, the dosing device 300 may be placed and stored on the support elements 191, 192 inside the expander device 100 preferably in its expanded position. The dosing device 300 may be placed inside the expander device 100 with the opening of the bowl 320 facing towards the inside of the pouch 400. Preferably, the dosing device 300 may be fastened to the support elements 191, 192 inside the ring member 130 by interlocking structures provided on the support elements 191, 192 and the dosing device 300.

The storage container 500 (or the container opening 511) may be closed with the container lid 550. It is also conceivable that the expander device 100 being already connected to the pouch 400 may be attached (e.g. hung) to the storage container 500 preferably at the container opening 511. The pouch opening 411 may then be closed by the container lid 550 and/or the lid attached to the expander device 100.

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

Claims

1. An expander device for keeping a pouch opening of a pouch open, the expander device comprising two elements, wherein each of the two elements comprises an inner ring section and an outer section,

the two elements are rotatably connected to each other about a rotation axis in a scissor-like manner so that the inner ring sections together form a ring member, by which a central opening is at least partially surrounded, and so that the outer sections of the elements at least partially surround the inner ring sections of the other element, respectively, when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening,

the ring member comprises an outer circumferential fitment section that at least partially surrounds the central opening and faces away from the central opening so as to be fitted against an inner side surface of a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening, and

the ring member is convertible between a collapsed position, in which the inner ring sections are angled to each other to span an angle α=αcollapsed, and an expanded position, in which the inner ring sections span an angle α=αexpanded with αcollapsed<Cexpanded.

2. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein, in the expanded position, the rotation axis penetrates an upper rim portion of the expander device or the ring member, and/or wherein, in the expanded position, the rotation axis penetrates the expander device adjacent to the fitment section.

3. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein, in the expanded position, the ring member extends substantially within a plane, and/or wherein αexpanded is 180°.

4. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein, at least in the expanded position, the ring member or the outer circumferential fitment section extends in a circumferentially closed manner.

5. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the outer sections form together an outer ring member that at least partially surrounds the ring member and its central opening when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening or in the expanded position, and/or

the inner ring section and the outer section of each element form together a circumferentially closed profile.

6. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein, in the expanded position, between the ring member or its fitment section on the one hand and the outer sections on the other hand, a gap for receiving the rim section.

7. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the fitment section at least partially comprises an inhibiting feature.

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

9. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the inner ring section and the outer section of each element are formed separately or integrally with each other, wherein the inner ring section and the outer section are preferably formed by separate brackets.

10. The expander device according to claim 1, wherein the inner ring section and the outer section of each element are connected to each other via a connection section, wherein the rotation axis crosses the connection section.

11. A package system, comprising

a pouch carrying a food product, and

an expander device for keeping a pouch opening of a pouch open, the expander device comprising two elements, wherein each of the two elements comprises an inner ring section and an outer section,

the two elements are rotatably connected to each other about a rotation axis in a scissor-like manner so that the inner ring sections together form a ring member, by which a central opening is at least partially surrounded, and so that the outer sections of the elements at least partially surround the inner ring sections of the other element, respectively, when viewed perpendicularly onto the central opening,

the ring member comprises an outer circumferential fitment section that at least partially surrounds the central opening and faces away from the central opening so as to be fitted against an inner side surface of a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening, and

the ring member is convertible between a collapsed position, in which the inner ring sections are angled to each other to span an angle α=αcollapsed, and an expanded position, in which the inner ring sections span an angle α=αexpanded with αcollapsed<αexpanded to be inserted, in the collapsed position of the ring member, at least with the fitment section into a pouch opening of the pouch to keep the pouch opening open by fitment of the fitment section against an inner side surface of a circumferential rim section of the pouch opening when the ring member is converted in the expanded position.

12. The package system according to claim 11, further comprising a storage container having a container opening for receiving the pouch and the expander device.

13. The package system according to claim 11, wherein, in the expanded position, the expander device presses the rim section towards or against a circumferential inner wall section of the storage container, preferably at or adjacent to the container opening.

14-15. (canceled)