Flexible Preform Cover (e.g., Bags, Pouches) Patents (Class 53/434)
  • Patent number: 5873217
    Abstract: Described and/or claimed herein is a method for vacuum sealing articles in a substantially air-tight container comprising the steps of: 1) placing the article in the container; 2) turning on a vacuum source having an elongated nozzle end; 3) inserting the nozzle into the container; 4) sealing the container as completely as possible around the nozzle; 5) waiting for air to be withdrawn from the container through the nozzle; 6) removing the nozzle from the container; and 7) completely sealing the container with the article therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: George E. Smith
  • Patent number: 5863576
    Abstract: Packaging for lobster, within which the product may be microwaved, including the use of pallet structure for positioning the lobster within the packaging to avoid penetration of the plastic wrapping film by shell structure. The packaging is vacuum sealed, flash frozen and distributed to be subsequently microwaved without rupture of the packaging until after microwaving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Assignee: Carnival Brand Seafood Company
    Inventor: Nicholas A. Guarino
  • Patent number: 5863578
    Abstract: Packaging for seafood that may have been coated in sauce or marinated, including the optional use of pallet structure for positioning the product within the packaging to be vacuum sealed and flash frozen before being subsequently microwaved without rupture of the packaging until after microwaving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Assignee: Carnival Brand Seafood Company
    Inventor: Nicholas A. Guarino
  • Patent number: 5857311
    Abstract: Process and apparatus for introducing compressible packs, especially bundles (10) or bundle groups (16, 17) comprised of small packs (11) of paper tissues into a carton (15). Articles or packs or pack groups of cellulose products are difficult to handle from the point of view of packaging technology. For the introduction into a carton (15) open at the top, bundle groups (16, 17) consisting of a multitude of small packs (11) of paper tissues are mechanically compressed, especially into a V-shaped form, then grasped on the top side by a lifting head (23) with suction holders (24 to 27) and held by suction. The lifting head (23) conveys a complete layer of bundle groups (16, 17) into the carton (15) from above, the compressed, reduced formation of the bundles (10) being maintained until they are deposited in the carton (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1999
    Assignee: Focke & Co. (GmbH & Co.)
    Inventors: Heinz Focke, Harald Freudenberg
  • Patent number: 5840252
    Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods for manufacturing solutions including medical solutions. To this end, in an embodiment, a method for preparing a medical solution is provided comprising the steps of: placing a solution in a gas permeable container; and allowing carbon dioxide to permeate through the container until a desired pH is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph A. Giertych
  • Patent number: 5827554
    Abstract: Packaging for shellfish and other seafood in which the product may be microwaved, including the use of pallet structure for positioning the product within the packaging to avoid penetration by shells, fish bones or fins of the plastic wrapping film to enable the product to be preserved by flat packing and vacuum sealing to be subsequently microwaved without rupture of the packaging until intentionally done at the completion of microwaving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Assignee: Carnival Brand Seafood Company
    Inventor: Nicholas A. Guarino
  • Patent number: 5817353
    Abstract: A process and packaging for shellfish and other seafood, including the use of pallet structure for positioning the product within the packaging to avoid penetration by shells, fish bones or fins of the plastic wrapping film to enable the product to be preserved by flat packing and vacuum sealing and then placed within an outer package designed to promote a pleasing appearance of the product within.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Carnival Brand Seafood Company
    Inventor: Nicholas A. Guarino
  • Patent number: 5809744
    Abstract: A vacuum shell (10) defines an inner cavity (18) in which particulate materials are packed via vacuum pressure. In use, the vacuum shell (10) is positioned within the container (such as sack (16)), and the open end 15 of the shell 10 is brought into contact with a surface (such as platform (17 or 17')) such that a vacuum tight compartment is created. Particulate material is supplied through port (26 or 27) into the inner cavity (18) while vacuum pressure is applied. The particulate material is densified within the inner cavity (18) under the vacuum pressure, and when the volume/quantity of particulate is achieved, the vacuum pressure ceases, and the vacuum shell (10) is withdrawn from the container. To enhance filling, the filter media inside the vacuum shell (10) can be periodically pulsed with air or other suitable gases to remove particulate cakes from the filter material (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: J.M. Huber Corporation
    Inventors: Newton L. Villines, William D. Whitner, Filip S. Gilmer
  • Patent number: 5806283
    Abstract: A homogeneous dry mechanical blend of freely flowable pellets, granules or powders comprising plastic resin and/or plastic additive concentrates is vacuum packaged in order to lock the constituents of the blend in place and eliminate their segregation due to differences in specific gravity, size and shape. The vacuum packaged composition remains immobilized until the vacuum package is opened and the vacuum is released. Thus, the homogeneity of the blend is maintained during shipping, handling and storage. Providing a homogeneous customized mechanical blend of plastic compounded additive concentrates is an economical and preferred method of providing an intermediate product to a user for the molding or extruding of a plastic end product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Richard A. Shafer
  • Patent number: 5799463
    Abstract: There is disclosed a method for the preservation of an article by housing an article such as a food, cereal and pharmaceutical in a packaging vessel which is equipped at least in part thereof with an oxygen absorbing resin layer wherein an iron-based deoxidizing agent is kneaded with and dispersed in a theremoplastic resin so that oxygen is absorbed in the layer in the presence of carbon dioxide gas and by hermetically sealing the packaging vessel. It is preferable to house the article in the vessel, subsequently replace the atmosphere in the vessel with carbon dioxide gas, etc. so as to allow carbon dioxide gas to be present therein and thereafter hermetically seal the vessel. The method enables substantially oxygen-free state by the absorption of oxygen in an atmosphere containing carbon dioxide gas and permits the deoxidizing agent packaging through carbon dioxide gas replacement as well as the deoxidizing agent package of an article which generates carbon dioxide gas from itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Takashi Kashiba
  • Patent number: 5791123
    Abstract: A method of decanting hazardous substances into containers, in which the substances to be decanted are divided into portions and packaged at the outlet of a production plant via an upper glove box, a lock chamber and a drum container under clean room conditions, wherein the drum container is positioned beneath the sealing device on the upper glove box on a weighing platform, and an upper ring flange of the drum container is sealed by inflating an inflatable seal, and a passage between the glove box and a space with the drum container is opened, and further the operator pulls an outer bag out of the drum container over the flange in the glove box and fastens it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Helpmann Verfahrenstechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Alfred Bolz
  • Patent number: 5784860
    Abstract: A sealed bag for vacuum-packing an electronic device in the state of being evacuated and partially thermally fused at an opening thereof includes a multi-layer film including; a first anti-static layer; a thin metal layer; an insulative layer; and a second anti-static layer. A container includes a case for accommodating at least two such sealed bags. The case is provided with a charge protective layer on an inner surface thereof; a housing for accommodating at least two cases; and a master carton for accommodating at least one housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hisashi Fujikawa, Youki Yoneda
  • Patent number: 5737905
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for packaging products susceptible of absorbing carbon dioxide, in particular perishable food products. The method comprises the step of inserting a product in a containment package and the step of sealing the package. Before sealing, a preset amount of solid-phase carbon dioxide is introduced in the containment package. The sublimated carbon dioxide is then absorbed by the packaged product, avoiding collapse of the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Assignee: Valle Spluga S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Milani
  • Patent number: 5736176
    Abstract: A method of making a mixed feed livestock cargo unit suitable for long distance shipping mixes dry fodder with fermented silage in a ratio proportioned to produce a mixed feed product having a net moisture content in the range of approximately 20% up to about 35%. The mixed feed product is compressed in a compression apparatus and then sealed for shipment. The dry fodder in one embodiment has a moisture content of approximately 8% up to about 15% and the fermented silage has a moisture content of approximately 40% up to about 70%. In another embodiment of the invention, the dry fodder a moisture content of approximately 12% and the fermented silage has a moisture content of approximately 60%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: A.C.X. Trading, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Gombos, Moshe Leashno
  • Patent number: 5735609
    Abstract: A container for holding elements to be sterilized prior to introduction into an isolation system having an isolated inner region. The container includes a flexible bag having a first end defining a first opening for removing the elements from the flexible bag. A transfer port is attached to the flexible bag proximate the first end. The transfer port is engageable with the isolation system for transferring the sterilized elements into the isolation system. The transfer port has an exterior surface, and a bore extends through the transfer port and the exterior surface. The exterior surface has a clamp receiving area and a groove located in proximity to a first end of the bore. The first end of the flexible bag is located in the groove. A clamp is located around the flexible bag proximate to the first end. A portion of the flexible bag is located between the clamp and the clamp receiving area on the transfer port to clamp the flexible bag to the transfer port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: The West Company
    Inventor: Paul H. Norton
  • Patent number: 5731023
    Abstract: A method for packaging products susceptible of absorbing carbon dioxide, in particular perishable food products. The method comprises the step of inserting a product in a containment package and the step of sealing the package. Before sealing, a preset amount of solid-phase carbon dioxide is introduced in the containment package. The sublimated carbon dioxide is then absorbed by the packaged product, avoiding collapse of the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Valle Spluga S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Milani
  • Patent number: 5729956
    Abstract: A method of producing ammonia water (aqua ammonia) by means of desorbing an ammonia laden sorbent, preferably a zeolite molecular sieve or silica gel into water. The method includes placing an activated sorbent material into a sealed vessel, such as a pressure pot, and exposing it to ammonia gas for a period of time. After loading by exposure to ammonia gas, the loaded sorbent is then placed into an air and water tight container for storage. The pouch can be stored for extended lengths of time prior to use of the contents. When ready for use, the contents of the pouch are dropped into a container of water. In one preferred use of the loaded sorbents, the container of water is a toilet bowl. In another preferred embodiment, the container is a separate disposal pouch, such as a small plastic bag capable of holding an ostomy pouch, sanitary napkin or incontinence pad. After use, the ostomy pouch or other device can be made to dissolve by placing the used pouch in ammonia water at a pH of 10.3 or higher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Apex Medical Technologies, Inc
    Inventor: Mark W. McGlothlin
  • Patent number: 5711136
    Abstract: A device and method are described for creating a vacuum in bags (20), particularly those for holding food products, in which the device comprises an outer tube (10) that is inserted into the bag (20) from above and an inner tube (11) that can slide axially inside the tube (10) to move from a retracted position in which it is completely housed inside the tube (10) to an extended position in which it protrudes downwards from the robe. The inner tube (11) takes up a position protruding from the tube (10) during creation of the vacuum in the bag (20) and a retracted position inside the tube (10) to allow sealing of the bag (20) by means of a pair of sealing bars (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Assignee: Goglio Luigi Milano SpA
    Inventor: Maurizio Carcano
  • Patent number: 5702739
    Abstract: A method of coding a package for identification includes the steps of providing a package including a product in a bag, the bag having a tail portion; and positioning at least one cut in the tail portion of the bag, the at least one cut having a pre-selected characteristic, wherein the pre-selecting characteristic comprises a code for identification. A coded package comprises a bag; and a product positioned within the bag, the bag having at least one cut positioned therein, the at least one cut having a pre-selected characteristic which comprises a code for identification, the bag being sealed between the product and the at least one cut. A system for providing a coded package includes a manner providing a product in a bag; a manner of vacummizing the bag; a manner of making a cut in the bag; and a manner of sealing the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 30, 1997
    Assignee: W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn.
    Inventor: Joseph E. Owensby
  • Patent number: 5692360
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus, automated system and method for packaging food products. The system has a novel arrangement for transferring the product from a receiving station to a bagging station which arrangement includes mechanical devices for pulling a bag over the product. The system further includes a unique platen system for transporting the bagged product to various stations where it is vacuumized, sealed, trimmed, and finished. Optionally, the system includes a plurality of needles for injecting a fluid such as a basting fluid into the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Assignee: W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn.
    Inventors: Gregory E. McDonald, Glenn W. Killinger, John D. Foster, Cuong M. Ta, Charles C. Zende, Andrew W. Moehlenbrock
  • Patent number: 5682727
    Abstract: A combined cutting blade and heat bar for use with a vacuum packaging device having a lid for sealing over the cavity of a base is disclosed. The cutting blade and heat bar are connected to one another and movable via a single actuating mechanism mounted to the lid. In use, in one step the combined mechanism is lowered with the heat bar unheated and the cutting element cuts slits in the bag for evacuation of the air. After air evacuation, the combined mechanism is lowered with the heat bar heated, melting the bag closed behind the slitted area of the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1997
    Assignee: Koch Supplies, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Harte, James S. Colmer, Michael L. Kennedy
  • Patent number: 5678387
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for evacuating a vacuum package made from a thin-walled and flexible packaging material and filled with granular material. An open end of a filled package is folded in such a manner that a narrow gap is formed which constitutes an open communication between an interior and an exterior of the package. At least a part of the package is placed in a vacuum space and vacuumized for removing gasses from the package through the gap. Upon evacuation the package is sealed airtightly. Further, on at least a part of the packaging material defining the gap a force is exerted which reduces the gap width, so that the gap constitutes a filter for the granular material, whereby the granular material is retained inside the package during the evacuation of the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: Sara Lee/DE N.V.
    Inventor: Mathias Leonardus Cornelis Aarts
  • Patent number: 5666786
    Abstract: Process and apparatus for introducing compressible packs, especially bundles (10) or bundle groups (16, 17) comprised of small packs (11) of paper tissues into a carton (15). Articles or packs or pack groups of cellulose products are difficult to handle from the point of view of packaging technology. For the introduction into a carton (15) open at the top, bundle groups (16, 17) consisting of a multitude of small packs (11) of paper tissues are mechanically compressed, especially into a V-shaped form, then grasped on the top side by a lifting head (23) with suction holders (24 to 27) and held by suction. The lifting head (23) conveys a complete layer of bundle groups (16, 17) into the carton (15) from above, the compressed, reduced formation of the bundles (10) being maintained until they are deposited in the carton (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Focke & Co. (GmbH & Co.)
    Inventors: Heinz Focke, Harald Freudenberg
  • Patent number: 5605934
    Abstract: The present invention provides improved methods for manufacturing solutions including medical solutions. To this end, in an embodiment, a method for preparing a medical solution is provided comprising the steps of: placing a solution in a gas permeable container; and allowing carbon dioxide to permeate through the container until a desired pH is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1997
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph A. Giertych
  • Patent number: 5598684
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for producing a vacuum package filled with granular material. A package made from a flexible film is filled with granular product. The filled package is compressed, so that the contents form a compact whole. Then the compressed package is evacuated by means of a vacuum element which is connected to a small suction opening in the wall of the package, while the rest of the package is not subjected to vacuum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Assignee: Sara Lee/De N.V.
    Inventor: Mathias L. C. Aarts
  • Patent number: 5597599
    Abstract: A method of preservation and presentation including the steps of positioning a perishable product having a significant porosity and permeability into a gas impermeable package in the presence of a first agent, thereafter sealing the product in the package in the presence of the agent under a positive pressure and maintaining gas communication between the product and the first agent for a time necessary for the concentration of the first agent to be reduced by 50%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignees: Pakor, Inc., Louisiana State University and Agricultural College
    Inventors: Brian S. Smith, Kenneth W. McMillin, John H. Wells, A. James Farr, Jerry L. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 5590510
    Abstract: An ink tank cartridge is provided removably mountable onto an ink supply needle of the ink-jet type recording apparatus body. The cartridge has a housing provided with an ink supply port extending through and projecting from a wall of the housing and into the chamber of the housing. A porous member having ink impregnated thereon is positioned inside the chamber of the housing abutting against the ink supply port. A filter is mounted on the inner end opening of the ink supply port. The ink tank cartridge is further provided with a packing member for resiliently abutting against the outer periphery of the ink supply needle and is positioned adjacent one end of the ink supply port. The outer opening of the ink supply port is sealed with a sealing member through which the ink supply needle penetrates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Seiji Mochizuki, Kuzuhisa Kawakami, Masahiro Nakamura, Keiichi Ohshima, Masanori Yoshida
  • Patent number: 5577368
    Abstract: Wear resistance and oxidation resistance of bioimplantable polymeric parts is improved by packaging the parts within flexible, gas impermeable containers while subjecting the containers and the parts to a relatively high vacuum force. The containers are heat sealed while subjected to the vacuum force such that, upon sealing, hydrostatic pressure is exerted on the part. Following sealing of the packages, the packages and their contents are irradiated to an extent sufficient to sterilize the parts and to promote crosslinking within the part. Alternatively, the same property enhancements can be imparted to polymeric parts by packaging the part within rigid or flexible containers, minimizing the oxygen content within the containers, pressurizing the containers with an inert gas, or with a mixture of hydrogen and an inert gas, to greater than 1.5 atmospheres, and irradiating the part and the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Professional, Inc.
    Inventors: John V. Hamilton, Mark A. Manasas, Timothy M. Flynn
  • Patent number: 5564260
    Abstract: Methods for preparing, transporting and dispersing cremated remains via balloon, and a container providing a clean environment for carrying out this method. Cremated remains are deposited into a balloon, the balloon is filled with gas, transported to a launching site and released. To provide an environment that assures substantially complete and safe transfer of the cremated remains to the balloon as well as to provide a sealed chamber for inflation and transport of the balloon, a special container having interior surfaces of vinyl or other barrier materials is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Inventors: Joan B. West, Clyde E. West
  • Patent number: 5555704
    Abstract: A gas sterilizer in which liquid phase ethylene oxide (ETO) is dispensed into an evaporator which converts the liquid to a gas and partially inflates a sterilization bag. After the sterilization bag has been partially filed with the is closed and sealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Assignee: A-Bio-Vac Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Caufield, Ralph Torborg, Wilmer L. Adams
  • Patent number: 5551213
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for sealing object(s) in various size pouches (10). The apparatus comprises a frame (54) having a support surface (56), a seal assembly (58) including upper and lower sealing jaws (44), a clamp assembly (60) including upper and lower clamping jaws (50), and a snorkel assembly (62) having a snorkel guide member (68) telescopically surrounding a probe (70). The clamp assembly secures the pouch, and the probe is inserted into the pouch to evacuate the air from the pouch. Once the air is evacuated, the seal assembly seals the pouch, and the clamp assembly then releases the pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Michael L. Koelsch, Dennis A. McIntyre, James B. Roy
  • Patent number: 5546731
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to packaging methods for preserving a comestible, and for extending the shelf-life thereof, while simultaneously providing a freshly baked and locally packaged appearance. The package includes a retractable panel located at an inconspicuous place on the package which panel is pressed inwardly by atmospheric pressure, after the essentially inert modified atmosphere within the package has been partially absorbed by the comestible contained there within.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Ihor Wyslotsky
    Inventor: Ihor Wyslotsky
  • Patent number: 5528880
    Abstract: A vacuum-packing machine has a vacuum chamber (1), a stop valve (10) arranged between the vacuum chamber and a vacuum pump (13), a vacuum sensor (17) connected to the vacuum chamber and an indicator (22) for the negative pressure in the vacuum chamber. An electronic circuitry (21) is connected between the vacuum sensor (17) and the indicator (22) and is designed in such a way that the electric voltage supplied thereto by the vacuum sensor (17) is converted into a continuous series of rectangular pulses. Evacuation of the chamber (1) is stopped when a predetermined pulse frequency or a deviation from a linear course of an evacuation curve is detected. Closure of the package in a vacuum can be closely adapted to the product concerned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Assignee: Inauen Maschinen AG
    Inventor: Bruno Landolt
  • Patent number: 5501525
    Abstract: An improved bone-guard bag for packaging meats and other foods for longer term preservation during storage and transport, comprising an oxygen and moisture-impermeable outer bag and a puncture-resistant inner bag for preventing bones and other sharp surfaces of the packaged food from penetrating the inner and outer bags to compromise the oxygen and moisture-resistant integrity thereof. Vent means are provided in the bone-guard bag to permit oxygen evacuation, gas flushing, and sealing of both the inner and outer bags simultaneously. The inner bag is secured to the outer bag to allow movement relative to each other, while facilitating insertion of food therein. The outer bag is preferably made from a coextrusion of separate polyethylene and nylon layers bonded together. The inner bag is preferably made from at least two unbonded plies of polyethylene film for increased puncture resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Assignee: Winpak Films, Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley J. Cox, Kevin M. Byers
  • Patent number: 5493844
    Abstract: A packaging container of the type being flat when empty for receiving bulk material includes a moisture-proof, thermoplastic layer connectable along a longitudinal seam which is defined by longitudinal edges and having a ventilation zone spaced in parallel relationship to the longitudinal edges and closable through heat sealing or welding after feeding bulk material into the interior and ventilating the bulk material. The ventilation zone of the packaging container is formed by initially leaving one of the longitudinal edges of the longitudinal seam open. Only after the packaging container is filled and the contents are allowed to ventilate is this initially open seam area closed by a welding or heat sealing process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: Haver & Boecker
    Inventor: Alois Combrink
  • Patent number: 5491957
    Abstract: An improved method and device are provided for evacuating gas from a gas tight envelope such as a bag of plastic film, enclosing solid or granular material. The vacuum probe used in accordance with the invention to evacuate the envelope has one or more parallel grooves or apertures extending its length. The probe is inserted into the envelope in such a way that the grooves or apertures tangentially oppose the contents of the envelope and provide a vacuum, across the length of the probe to prevent blocking of the probe and ceasing evacuation of the gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventor: Richard Maskell
  • Patent number: 5461843
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating bagged materials. A bagging machine is equipped with feed tubes that feed a conduit through a bag filling tunnel of the machine and through the open end of the bag and into the bag. The conduit is perforated and when the bag is filled, the length of the conduits is extended out through the bag end to be connected to a treatment media, e.g., forced air. An opening is provided at the rear end to provide an exhaust opening for air that is forced into the conduit, out the perforations and through the bagged material. The air will dry the material to lower the moisture content or provide oxygen as may be desired to enhance decomposition. Water may also be introduced as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: Ag-Bag International
    Inventors: Ronald V. Garvin, Larry R. Inman, Arthur P. Schuette
  • Patent number: 5447011
    Abstract: A product in a closed container, (A) the product releasing and/or containing H.sub.2 S, and (B) the container being permeable to gases, another container, largely impermeable to gases and holding an H.sub.2 S absorber, being arranged around said container. The product especially may be infusion solutions containing substances which can release or generate H.sub.2 S, in addition to other amino acids, if desired. The solutions according to the invention clearly are more durable and contain less H.sub.2 S than comparable known solutions of the art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Assignee: Kabi Pharmacia GmbH
    Inventors: Ralf Harand, Hans Gartner, Peter Iwatschenko, Carl Jurgen
  • Patent number: 5447736
    Abstract: A method of packaging a food product employing a tray having side walls defining a cavity in an outwardly directed flange extending around the perimeter of the tray, the flange being adapted to receive a pair of membranes to enclose the tray. The lower membrane is the more permeable of the two. It may be attached to a first surface of the flange. The second membrane is attached to a second outer surface of the flange without direct connection except through the tray to the more permeable membrane. The two connection surfaces may be separated by a depression to facilitate the cutting away of the material forming the more permeable membrane in a continuous manufacturing process. With the less permeable membrane in place, a desired gaseous environment may be maintained within the package. When it is desired to change the gaseous environment, the upper less permeable membrane may be peeled away allowing gaseous communication through the lower more permeable membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Assignee: World Class Packaging Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael P. Gorlich
  • Patent number: 5435114
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automated packaging machine for packaging poultry products and a method for packing poultry products using the machine. The machine includes a loading station wherein the product is loaded into a bag and a sealing station for closing the bag. A first clamp arrangement is used to capture and control edges of the bag during the loading operation and to move the bag with the product therein to the sealing station. The machine also includes guides for supporting the product during loading, a plunger for breaking the hocks, and a mechanism for introducing a vacuum into the bag before sealing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn
    Inventors: Andrew W. Moehlenbrock, Gregory E. McDonald, Howard D. Conner, Joseph E. Owensby, Frederick A. Dobbins, Thomas H. Bagwell
  • Patent number: 5433061
    Abstract: Apparatus (1) for removing excess air from sealed packages so as to prevent ballooning. The apparatus (1) comprises a first conveyor belt (3) along which the packages move through the apparatus (1). The conveyor (3) Is driven by two rollers (4 and 5) and is also arranged to vibrate, by means of vibrator (2), in order to settle the contents, e.g. rice, in the packages throughout the operation. When a package is in a predetermined position, as determined by a sensor, such as a photoelectric cell (7), the package is punctured by a suitable device such as a spike (8). As the package continues down the conveyor (3), excess air is removed from the package by means of a spring loaded conveyor (19) which is biased against the package. As spring loaded conveyor (19) is pressed against the package, air in the package Is forced out through the hole made by spike (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Assignee: Ricegrowers' Co-Operative Limited
    Inventors: Gary D. Hutchinson, George T. Ollerenshaw
  • Patent number: 5426916
    Abstract: A liquid-impregnated flexible sheet includes high capillarity pores for retaining the impregnated fluid. The fluid may be an oil having a boiling point and vapor pressure sufficient to promote vaporization of the oil at room temperature. The vaporizable oil can function as a corrosion inhibitor making the sheet useful for wrapping metallic articles. A surfactant may also be added to the sheet to enhance corrosion inhibition. The sheet comprises a homogenous mixture of a polyolefin-based component and an inert filler. The sheet may be used alone or as one component of a composite that includes materials that have other desirable properties. The composite may be assembled into a container, such as a gun case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Evanite Fiber Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas E. Grigsby, William B. Brecht, John W. Swanson
  • Patent number: 5424086
    Abstract: A system for feeding infants with an artificial formula includes the supply of a formula (20) into a bag (10) under sterile conditions. The bag (10) is not completely filled with formula (20), the formula (20) occupying one portion (12) with another portion (14) being collapsed as a result of withdrawal of air therefrom. The bag (10) is sealed. In use, the collapsed portion (14) of a bag (10) is inserted into a nursing bottle (16) and the formula (20) caused to flow into the collapsed portion (14) located within the bottle (16). The former filled portion (12) is removed to provide an opening to the formula (20) in the bag (10), and the free end is located between a cap (26) holding a teat (28) and the neck (18) of the bottle (16). The formula (20) may have an increased initial vitamin content to allow for loss of vitamins during storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Inventor: Rohan C. W. Walker
  • Patent number: 5414975
    Abstract: Above-ambient pressure is applied by bladders to internal surfaces of a pair of footwear articles to stretch the footwear and prevent deformation during shipping and handling. A protective wrapper forming a gas-impermeable sealed case surrounding the pair of footwear articles abuts external surfaces of the footwear articles. The case has an internal pressure less than ambient pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Assignee: Bernd Hummel GmbH
    Inventor: Bernd Hummel
  • Patent number: 5386678
    Abstract: The track for a pressure chamber overlaps the track for a clamper in movement while clamping a bag filled with an article, at a position beneath the latter track and with a level difference. The bag supported by the clamper is held, at its upper edge positioned right below the clamper, between the upper side of a chamber body of the pressure chamber and the upper side of a cover and in a sealed condition. The air in the bag is expelled through a notched line formed in an upper portion of the bag as the pressure within the pressure chamber is reduced, and then the bag is sealed at a position below the notched line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Assignee: Furukawa Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Eitaro Kujubu
  • Patent number: 5383324
    Abstract: A method and device for stabilizing and storing bicarbonate solutions is provided. In an embodiment, a device is provided having a container and carbon-dioxide generating substances that include a solid material which upon contact with water generates carbon-dioxide gas. The device may be packaged together with the bicarbonate or in a separate overpouch. The present invention also provides a method for the stabilization of bicarbonate solutions utilizing a means that generates high pressure carbon dioxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Alain Segers, Dirk Faict, Annick Duponchelle, Jean-Pierre Hartman, Francesco Peluso
  • Patent number: 5376394
    Abstract: A method for shrink packaging bone-in food masses such as meat cuts is disclosed, A patch bag comprising a thin-walled heat shrinkable thermoplastic film bag and a thick-walled non-heat shrinkable thermoplastic film patch having its inner surface bonded to the bag outer surface is used. Both surfaces have high energy as the sole bonding means and the patch-bag bond strength increases during heat shrinking around the meat mass such that the bag portion adhered to the patch shrinks less than the rest of the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Assignee: Viskase Corporation
    Inventors: Vincent J. Dudenhoeffer, Jeffrey M. Schuetz
  • Patent number: 5364577
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a vacuum insulation panel is provided which includes the steps of: drying a quantity of microporous powder; evacuating the powder of gases; evacuating a gas impermeable bag of gases; loading the powder into the gas impermeable bag while the bag and powder remain in an evacuated condition; and sealing the gas evacuated bag with the gas evacuated powder therein to form a vacuum insulation panel. The powder in the bag should be compacted before the bag is sealed and also a trace amount of helium may be injected into the bag prior to sealing to assist in leak detection of the sealed panel. The panel with injected helium has an internal pressure not exceeding 1 mm Hg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1994
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Nihat O. Cur, Richard W. Kruck
  • Patent number: 5354569
    Abstract: A container system which is environmentally controlled for the packaging and shipment of vegetables, and particularly of lettuce, such as iceberg lettuce. The packaging relies upon a reusable paperboard container which is of a polygonal shape, such as an octagonal shape, providing a large number of corner margins which afford strength in stacking of like containers on pallets. A plastic liner is disposed within the paperboard container and receives the vegetables such as the heads of lettuce. This liner is evacuated through a small incision made in the liner and the liner is sealed, or the former air atmosphere is replaced with a modified atmosphere, such as a high carbon monoxide concentration or nitrogen atmosphere, and thereafter, the opening is sealed. The modified atmosphere precludes the oxidation and deterioration of the lettuce or other vegetable product. In a more preferred embodiment, a pair of plastic liners, comprising inner and outer liners, are employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Inventors: Richard S. Brown, Bennett W. Brown
  • Patent number: RE35683
    Abstract: A method for packaging a liquid to semi-solid substance under a vacuum inside a variable-capacity container closed by a dispenser member that prevents ingress of air, includes at least a stage in which the dispenser member is fixed in sealed manner on the container filled with the substance. The fixing takes place while the container is inside an enclosure in which an air vacuum is maintained. Apparatus for implementing the method includes, for example, a ring suitable for bearing downwards in sealed manner on the open top of a socket containing the container, thereby enabling the enclosure to be established. A device is provided therein for sucking out the air, and also for fixing on the dispenser member. It is possible to obtain like this dispensers that are particularly advantageous, particularly when the dispenser member is a precompression pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: Valois (Societe anonyme)
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Varlet