Vacuum Or Inert Atmosphere Patents (Class 53/510)
  • Patent number: 7937914
    Abstract: To enhance evacuation of a storage bag having a one-way valve element and to reduce noise during evacuation, a handheld evacuation device includes one or more gaskets that can be made of resilient material. A gasket can be disposed about the rim of an inlet opening of the evacuation device to provide both a leak-free interface between the evacuation device and the storage bag and to reduce vibration and chatter of the evacuation device against a rigid support surface. A gasket can also be provided intermediately between a main body portion of the evacuation device and a nozzle portion that is to be placed adjacent to the storage bag during use. The intermediate gasket isolates vibrations in the main body portion thereby reducing vibrations and chatter of the evacuation device against a rigid support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: The Glad Products Company
    Inventors: Alan F. Savicki, Scott Binger
  • Publication number: 20110099954
    Abstract: A waste storage device includes a waste storage cassette receiving chamber for receiving a cassette rotatable within the chamber and containing tubing for enveloping waste. The chamber includes a rotatable portion (602) mounted on a fixed portion (604) of the device, the rotatable portion (602) being rotatable with the cassette. The device further comprises a deformable portion (601) mounted on the fixed portion (604) and moveable between an undeformed position to prevent rotation of the cassette and a deformed position to allow rotation of the cassette.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Publication date: May 5, 2011
    Applicant: SANGENIC INTERNATIONAL LTD.
    Inventor: Nicholas Cudworth
  • Patent number: 7930867
    Abstract: Low-speed inerting elements for depleting a receptacle of oxygen, include at least one hollow duct (2232), with walls (2233) of the hollow duct (2232) that are directed towards the receptacle (31) being made of a material including pores.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: 1/4 VIN
    Inventors: Pascal Carvin, Christian Mura
  • Publication number: 20110083406
    Abstract: Computer program products automatically package an object, such as, for example, whole muscle meat pieces, in a covering material, such as, for example, netting using actuators for operating barrier doors, pushers, and locks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Dennis J. May, Samuel D. Griggs, Matthew Lowder, William M. Poteat, Derek L. Brown
  • Patent number: 7918070
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a device and a method for sealing a package with a sealing seam by partially fusing together the packaging material, and a supply system for protective gas. The device includes a gas supply for inert gas and an inert gas outlet opening, wherein the gas supply for inert gas and the inert gas outlet opening are arranged such that an inert gas current resulting therebetween flows around the sealing seam during sealing of the package. The method provides a flow of inert gas around the sealing seam during sealing of the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Linde Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Franz Garnreiter
  • Patent number: 7913475
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an integrated multi-stage end-to-end cytotoxin handling system includes a first stage for receiving a cytotoxin drug and for preparation of a dose of the cytotoxin drug; a second stage in selective communication with the first stage for further processing the prepared dose; and a third stage in selective communication with the second stage for further processing of the prepared dose. The third stage includes an automated apparatus for sealing the prepared dose in an enclosure. During the entire time from reception into the first stage for drug preparation thereof and to produce a cytotoxin dose to being scaled in the enclosure, the cytotoxin drug remains in a controlled, sealed environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: FHT, Inc.
    Inventors: Abdul Wahid Khan, Dennis Tribble, Dennis Schneider, Morris W. Wallace
  • Patent number: 7900423
    Abstract: In the case of a method for the gastight packaging of objects using a film material fitting tightly on the objects using a vacuum, the object being placed in a tray and a deep-drawable film being attached to the tray for sealing, it is provided that a tray having at least one peripheral rim is used to form the packaging, the deep-drawable film is cut to the size of the peripheral rim, and that the deep-drawable film is subsequently and/or simultaneously applied to the peripheral rim in a gastight manner. A device preferably for carrying out this method has at least one cutting device for the deep-drawable film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Jörg von Seggern Maschinenbau GmbH
    Inventor: Jörg von Seggern
  • Patent number: 7895815
    Abstract: Devices comprising a plug positioned within a housing to regulate air within a container, for example, plastic storage containers or bags. One embodiment utilizes a plug that occludes an opening in a housing. The plug is displaced from the opening to inject or evacuate air from a container. An alternative embodiment utilizes a plug having air channels therein which can be sealed once air has been injected into or evacuated from a container. The devices are utilized with hose adaptors connected to vacuum or air hoses having specialized hose tips for coupling with the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Joseph M. Waldron
  • Publication number: 20110023423
    Abstract: A suction control apparatus is adapted to be used in a packaging machine for conveying and packaging a belt-shaped film while the film is being suctioned by a suction-type film conveyor. The suction control apparatus includes a proper vacuum-degree determination section and a vacuum-degree control unit. The proper vacuum-degree determination section is configured and arranged to determine a proper degree of vacuum of the suction-type film conveyor, which is less than a reference value set in advance. The vacuum-degree control unit is configured to set the degree of vacuum to a first value corresponding to the proper degree of vacuum determined by the proper vacuum-degree determination section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: ISHIDA CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshio IWASAKI, Makoto ICHIKAWA, Yusuke KIYOTA
  • Publication number: 20110016834
    Abstract: Machine for packaging in capsules, also in a vacuum and/or in a controlled atmosphere, characterized by the fact that a cylindrical wheel (G) with horizontal axis (R), peripherally provided with rows (S) of cavities (A), parallel to said axis (R) and angularly equally distanced by the step (P), preset to be interchangeably equipped with moulds (F,-F?) having different formats and geometrically congruent to the format of the capsules to be used (C; C).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Gina Rapparini
  • Patent number: 7870708
    Abstract: A storage system for storing and preserving food items or the like includes a sealable storage bag having attached to it a one-way valve element that communicates with the interior volume of the storage bag. The system also includes an evacuation device that can be positioned over the one-way valve element to evacuate air entrapped in the interior volume via the valve element. To avoid possible damage to the storage bag, the valve element, or the stored food items, the evacuation device is configured to have a maximum evacuation pressure of 6 pounds per square inch absolute or greater. In an embodiment, to control the maximum evacuation pressure of the evacuation device, the evacuation device can include a pressure control feature which in further embodiments may be pressure activated or user selectable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: The Glad Products Company
    Inventors: Michael G. Borchardt, Danny Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20100326987
    Abstract: A vacuum seal valve is applied to a lid for the air-tight closing of a container for the packaging of products, particularly food products, including a closing body arranged for sealing a hole for evacuating air from the container, from which at least one punching member stems that is adapted to pierce the lid closing the container so as to form such evacuating hole. A reciprocating mechanical vacuum pump, with manual actuation, evacuates air from a container arranged for the vacuum packaging of products, for example food products, via application of the vacuum sealing valve. The pump has, at its base, a recess adapted to form a housing for retaining the valve, whereby the lowering movement of the plunger allows driving the valve in a lid of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Applicant: F.A.C.E.M. S.p.A.
    Inventors: Marco Ferlito, Davide Demartini, Davide Adriano, Gabriele Adriano
  • Publication number: 20100300046
    Abstract: A portable storage apparatus for storing perishable items at a reduced temperature and under a reduced pressure is provided. The method of using the apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventors: Vladi Repkin, Victor Repkin
  • Publication number: 20100293900
    Abstract: Devices comprising a plug positioned within a housing to regulate air within a container, for example, plastic storage containers or bags. One embodiment utilizes a plug that occludes an opening in a housing. The plug is displaced from the opening to inject or evacuate air from a container. An alternative embodiment utilizes a plug having air channels therein which can be sealed once air has been injected into or evacuated from a container. The devices are utilized with hose adaptors connected to vacuum or air hoses having specialized hose tips for coupling with the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph M. Waldron
  • Publication number: 20100287880
    Abstract: There is provided a medicine dispensing system configured such that a medicine dispensing device includes a sub unit having a function to dispense medicine that is connected to a medicine dispensing device that includes a main unit having a function of packing medicines. There is also provided a medicine dispensing device that can be appropriately integrated with such a medicine dispensing system. The medicine dispensing system includes, in some embodiments a main unit, a sub unit and a transfer device connecting the main unit and the sub unit. The medicine dispensing system transfers the medicine dispensed in the sub unit to the main unit by means of a transfer device and dispenses the medicine at a medicine packing part together with the medicine dispensed from a main storage part in the main unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Itsuo Yasunaga, Chisei Asaoka, Norifumi Oike, Kensuke Kaminishi, Masahiko Kasuya, Nakaji Takeda, Hiromichi Tsuda, Yasuyuki Morita, Shinya Taira, Tomohiro Sugimoto, Naomichi Toyota
  • Patent number: 7823368
    Abstract: An apparatus for making a substantially air-tight foil package for mineral wool that includes a mechanical compressing device for compressing the mineral wool in a first direction to bring about a dimensional reduction thereof. A wrapping device encloses the mineral wool with a web of a substantially air-tight foil. An evacuating station is arranged downstream of the compressing device and it includes an evacuating device for evacuating air from the mineral wool compressed by the compressing device and enclosed by the foil. The evacuating station includes opposed surfaces for maintaining the dimensional reduction during transfer to the evacuating means of the foil enclosed mineral wool compressed by the compressing device. The opposed surfaces maintain the dimensional reduction during evacuation by the evacuating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Rockwool International A/S
    Inventors: Lars Elmekilde Hansen, Claus Egholm Sørensen
  • Publication number: 20100263329
    Abstract: The present invention provides, inter alia, a method of filling and sealing a beverage container, the method comprising the steps of: a) dispensing a predetermined amount of beverage, preferably wine, into an open-topped container having a circular rim, preferably a plastics wine glass, to leave a headspace above the beverage in the container; b) temporarily tacking a generally flat flexible film lid sized to fit over the open top to the rim of the container at at least one position around the rim while leaving the remainder of the rim free; c) engaging the tacked lid to cause flexure thereof to create a gap between the lid and the rim on one side; d) dispensing an inert gas, preferably nitrogen, through the gap so created and into the headspace to displace air therefrom; and e) bringing a heat sealer into engagement with the lid to heat seal the lid to the rim about its entire circumference, thereby trapping the inert gas within the headspace.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: James Nash
  • Patent number: 7806150
    Abstract: A method for packing and/or mixing particulate materials, e.g., aerogel particles, includes combining materials having different particle sizes and applying a negative pressure differential in the presence of a sound field. A negative pressure differential in the presence of vibration also can be used. The method increases mixing and packing density.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignees: New Jersey Institute of Technology, Cabot Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Pfeffer, Jameel Menashi, Qun Yu
  • Publication number: 20100218461
    Abstract: A vacuum storage system can have a storage container such as a semi-rigid bowl or a flexible thermoplastic bag and an evacuation device for evacuating the container. To draw air from the storage container, the container can be equipped with a one-way valve element attached to a exterior sidewall of the container. The valve element can interface with a nozzle of the evacuation device. The valve element is adaptable between a normal condition in which the valve element is closed, and an altered position in which the valve element is opened. To alter the valve element, the evacuation device includes a contact feature that can contact and displace the valve element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Publication date: September 2, 2010
    Inventors: Michael G. Borchardt, Scott W. Binger
  • Publication number: 20100212260
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method and to a capping or closing machine for the capping or closing of bottles or similar containers filled with an oxygen-sensitive product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2007
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Ludwig Clüsserath
  • Patent number: 7779608
    Abstract: According to a first aspect of the invention a can manufacturer completes manufacture of a can and then ships it to a filler, who needs only to fill the can with product. In a preferred embodiment the manufacturer pre-charges the container with a propellant. In accordance with a second aspect of the invention a desired quantity of gaseous propellant is first charged into a container, and a desired quantity of product is then injected into the container. A container filled in accordance with the invention maintains a predetermined pressure in the container as product is depleted from the container, and unacceptable pressure spikes are avoided as the container is being filled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventors: Walter K. Lim, Arthur A. Krause
  • Patent number: 7770367
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing a bag of encased material is described. A plurality of nozzles radiate from a central vacuum system, each nozzle associated with a clamping means. A framework rotates about the central vacuum system. A holding tray and an elevating device are removably attachable to the framework. The holding tray is attachable below a one of the plurality of nozzles and comprises an upright section and a projecting section. The upright section is supported by the framework at an acute angle from vertical, a top end of the upright section being adjacent to the framework and a bottom end of the upright section being remote from the framework. The projecting section is removably attachable to the bottom end of the upright section and projects approximately normal to the upright section. The elevating device is removably attachable to the framework below a one of the plurality of nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Poly-Clip System Corp.
    Inventors: Eggo Haschke, Mark Prokurat
  • Patent number: 7765777
    Abstract: Devices comprising a plug positioned within a housing to regulate air within a container, for example, plastic storage containers or bags. One embodiment utilizes a plug that occludes an opening in a housing. The plug is displaced from the opening to inject or evacuate air from a container. An alternative embodiment utilizes a plug having air channels therein which can be sealed once air has been injected into or evacuated from a container. The devices are utilized with hose adaptors connected to vacuum or air hoses having specialized hose tips for coupling with the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph M. Waldron
  • Publication number: 20100170198
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for compacting flowable solids, in particular powders, flours or similar materials, preferably by packing in packagings or sacks. In order to increase the process reliability, there is provision for evacuation of the solid and its sack packaging to take place in a likewise evacuated environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 8, 2010
    Inventors: Peter Näf, Heinz Brand
  • Patent number: 7726100
    Abstract: A method and a structure (1) are provided for enclosing a packaging machine (100), which can be divided in at least two work areas or portions (110; 130, 120) having different operation tasks, arranged one after another along a packaging line (2) of the machine (100). The structure (1) includes a plurality of enclosing panels (P), suitably assembled together to form enclosing chambers (3, 4) for protection of each of the work portions (110; 130, 120). At least one of the enclosing chambers (3) is aimed at enclosing, a pressurized environment and at least the other chamber (4) is aimed at enclosing an environment, whose pressure is substantially constant and equal to the outside pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: I.M.A. Industria Macchine Automatiche
    Inventor: Pietro Bigoni
  • Patent number: 7726104
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vacuum packaging system having an automatic bag cutter. The vacuum packaging system includes a housing constructed to sealingly engage a platen. A vacuum system is constructed to remove the gas from a container, or bag, placed between the housing and the platen. A blade is operable to sever excess material of the bag whereupon the bag is evacuated by the vacuum system, and a seal bar seals the severed end area of the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: CP Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond G. Buchko, Dwayne C. Long
  • Patent number: 7712289
    Abstract: In the case of a method for the gastight packaging of objects using a film material fitting tightly on the objects using a vacuum, the object being placed in a tray and a deep-drawable film being attached to the tray for sealing, it is provided that a tray having at least one peripheral rim is used to form the packaging, the deep-drawable film is cut to the size of the peripheral rim, and that the deep-drawable film is subsequently and/or simultaneously applied to the peripheral rim in a gastight manner. A device preferably for carrying out this method has at least one cutting device for the deep-drawable film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Jörg von Seggern Maschinenbau GmbH
    Inventor: Jörg von Seggern
  • Patent number: 7694498
    Abstract: The present invention provides a gas filling apparatus and gas filling port thereof. The gas filling apparatus is connected with the air feed apparatus which is introduced the gas into the first inlet port of the semiconductor device or reticle storage apparatus. The gas filling apparatus includes a supporting base which is provided to hold the storage apparatus thereon, and at least one second inlet port which is disposed on the first inlet port of the storage apparatus so as to the gas is flowed into the storage apparatus through the second inlet port. The second inlet port includes a first base, a second base, a first elastic element, a fixing element, and a switch device. Both of the first base and second base have through holes, and opposite to each other. The first elastic element is used to maintain the airtight and is disposed on the second base and opposite to the first inlet port of the storage apparatus used to maintain the airtight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
  • Patent number: 7690404
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for exposing a container to a controlled environment. The apparatus includes an elongated rail with first, second, and third manifolds positioned in substantial alignment with the container. The first, second, and third manifolds are adapted for providing flow of a gas therethrough. At least one gas flow regulator is operably attached to the first, second, and third manifolds. At least one nozzle is positioned adjacent the second manifold. The at least one nozzle is adapted for providing a composite gas stream exiting through the second manifold. The method includes providing an elongated rail with first, second, and third manifolds positioned in substantial alignment with the container. A flow of a gas is regulated through the first, second, and third manifolds. A composite gas stream is provided exiting through the second manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Clear Lam Packaging, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank F. Marcus, James J. Sanfilippo, John E. Sanfilippo
  • Patent number: 7685796
    Abstract: Automatic machine for closing containers, including an automatic corking unit, a conveyor including an inlet section for feeding containers to be corked towards the automatic corking unit and an outlet section for moving apart the corked containers from the corking unit, an injection unit arranged upstream of the corking unit, arranged for injecting inert gas in the head portions of the containers to be corked, a casing defining a chamber which contains the injection unit and the corking unit and a feeding system of inert gas for maintaining within said chamber an inert gas atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: AROL SpA
    Inventors: Stefano Capelli, Piero Bielli
  • Publication number: 20100037566
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for minimizing the oxygen content in containers to be filled, wherein the containers can he provided with a displacement medium by means of a feed unit (20), the displacement medium displacing oxygen from said container before closing the same, wherein the feed device (20) comprises at least one medium feed channel, by means of which the displacement medium can be introduced into the respective container and which is at least partially a component of a filling device (26), by means of which the respective container can be filled. The filling device (26) has a filling mandrel (17) comprising a filling channel (28), from which the respective media feed channel extends in a separated manner, and the filling mandrel (17) has at least one further medium transport channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Bernd Hansen
  • Publication number: 20100018161
    Abstract: A vacuum sealing device comprises a lid having a rigid rim with a lower opening for receiving a dish, an impermeable elastic membrane peripherally affixed to the rigid rim for sealing the dish, and a valve-less air evacuator formed between the elastic membrane and the dish rim. The valve-less evacuator allows air to flow out of the dish when the lid is being pressed and becomes closed when the lid is released to cause said lid to rebound to form a vacuum in the dish. The rigid rim prevents lid deformation when the lid is pressed, thus enabling the vacuum formation. To facilitate lid removal, the device has a valve-less vacuum releaser comprising a finger-receiving chamber and a section of the elastic membrane located above the chamber and connected to the rigid rim for releasing the vacuum in the dish. To prevent vacuum loss during storage in freezer or fridge, the elastic membrane is sufficiently thinned prior to being affixed to the rigid rim.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Edward Z. Cai
  • Publication number: 20100018169
    Abstract: A vacuum sealing device comprises a lid having a rigid rim with a lower opening for receiving a dish, an impermeable elastic membrane peripherally affixed to the rigid rim for sealing the dish, and a valve-less air evacuator formed between the elastic membrane and the dish rim. The valve-less evacuator allows air to flow out of the dish when the lid is being pressed and becomes closed when the lid is released to cause said lid to rebound to form a vacuum in the dish. The rigid rim prevents lid deformation when the lid is pressed, thus enabling the vacuum formation. To facilitate lid removal, the device has a valve-less vacuum releaser comprising a finger-receiving chamber and a section of the elastic membrane located above the chamber and connected to the rigid rim for releasing the vacuum in the dish. To prevent vacuum loss during storage in freezer or fridge, the elastic membrane is sufficiently thinned prior to being affixed to the rigid rim.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventor: Edward Z. Cai
  • Publication number: 20100011716
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a closure device for a package comprising a first panel (2) and a second superposed panel (3) with superposed through-openings (5) and a third panel (4) with at least one opening (11), the third panel (4) being able to occupy two positions in which the opening (11) is either superposed on said openings (5) of the other panels (2, 3) or is not superposed thereon. The second panel and/or the first panel (3, 2) comprises at least one tube (6) attached in a substantially perpendicular manner to its surface oriented toward said first panel (2) respectively the second panel (3) and housing a channel in communication with said at least one opening (5) of the second panel (3) respectively of the first panel (2), said at least one tube (6) making it possible to attach the first panel (2) and the second panel (3) together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: France DHENAIN
  • Patent number: 7644560
    Abstract: A new method and system for establishing, and optionally maintaining, a desired atmosphere for perishable or atmosphere-sensitive goods during their storage and/or transportation. In one embodiment, a conveyor is used to move a pallet with goods from station to station. A mechanical arm at a sheeting station lifts goods from a pallet while one or more sheets are placed between the goods and the pallet. A bottom plate with fingers having hollow tubes holds the pallet while the pallet is being wrapped and enclosed. A portable manifold may also be connected to the hollow tubes and a controller samples and adjusts atmosphere inside the pallet via the portable manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: The Bowden Group
    Inventors: Lisa A. Bowden, James S. Nagamine
  • Publication number: 20090313954
    Abstract: Method and assembly for evacuating a package (2), such as a vacuum package filled with a product such as nuts. The package is at least partially made of packaging film (6). The method employs a suction device (4) provided with a suction opening, for evacuating the package through an aperture (12) in the packaging film. The package is provided with a substantially plate-shaped, rigid element (8), one main surface of which substantially lying in contact “with the inner side of the packaging film, wherein the aperture in the packaging film is provided at the location of the substantially rigid element. The method further includes the sealing abutment of the suction opening against an outer side of the package, at a location where the substantially rigid element lies in contact with the inner side of the packaging film, in such a way that the aperture is in fluid connection with the suction opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: L.C Aarts
  • Patent number: 7610736
    Abstract: In a method for the gas-tight packing of objects with film material bearing tightly against the objects, by means of a vacuum, wherein the object is inserted in a bowl and a deep-drawable film is connected to the bowl for sealing the bowl, and wherein a bowl with at least one peripheral edge is used for forming the packaging material, the deep-drawable film is cut to the dimension of the peripheral edge and the deep-drawable film is subsequently or simultaneously applied to the peripheral edge in a gas-tight manner. A further film is then cut to the dimension of the peripheral edge during the application of the deep-drawable film, or after its application, and the further film is subsequently or simultaneously applied to the peripheral edge. The further film remains approximately in the plane of the peripheral edge after its application. A system for the gas-tight packing of objects with a first cutting device for a deep-drawable film has at least one cutting device for a further film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Jörg von Seggern Maschinenbau GmbH
    Inventor: Jörg von Seggern
  • Publication number: 20090260320
    Abstract: A workstation of a packaging machine comprises a lifting device (100) which is configured such that it is able to convert a rotary motion of a motor (8) into a translatory motion of the workstation by means of a lever device (6). It is the object of the present invention to provide in improved lifting device. The stroke of the lifting device (100) is performable for this purpose by a pivotable lever (61) and a roller (32) which cooperates with an upper roller limit (33).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Applicant: MULTIVAC Sepp Haggenmueller GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Dietmar Miller, Konrad Moessnang
  • Publication number: 20090260331
    Abstract: The present invention provides a gas filling apparatus and gas filling port thereof. The gas filling apparatus is connected with the air feed apparatus which is introduced the gas into the first inlet port of the semiconductor device or reticle storage apparatus. The gas filling apparatus includes a supporting base which is provided to hold the storage apparatus thereon, and at least one second inlet port which is disposed on the first inlet port of the storage apparatus so as to the gas is flowed into the storage apparatus through the second inlet port. The second inlet port includes a first base, a second base, a first elastic element, a fixing element, and a switch device. Both of the first base and second base have through holes, and opposite to each other. The first elastic element is used to maintain the airtight and is disposed on the second base and opposite to the first inlet port of the storage apparatus used to maintain the airtight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventors: Yung-Shun PAN, Yu-Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 7603834
    Abstract: An evacuation system including an evacuation member engages a product package and applies pressure thereto, such that a product in the product package moves toward an outlet in the product package for dispensing. A controller monitors the force applied by a driver to the product package, thereby ensuring that the pressure remains below a particular threshold to protect the integrity of the product package. The controller further monitors the evacuation member location, thereby enabling the controller to recognize when the product package is empty. The evacuation system further includes a package carrier including a pinch-off area that moves product out of an unrecoverable portion of the product package. The evacuation member may be utilized as a stand-alone device or with a primary device, wherein the primary device provides signals to the evacuation system and the evacuation system provides product to the primary device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Lancer Partnership, Ltd.
    Inventors: Alfred A. Schroeder, Michael T. Romanyszyn, Merrill R. Good, John D. Santy, George E. Hernandez, Ronald Ray Hoch
  • Patent number: 7600358
    Abstract: A method for packaging a product arranged in a tray is provided. An upper film located in a distance above the product is clamped along an edge surrounding the tray and is deformed in a direction extending away from the product. Subsequently, evacuating of the space surrounding the product is performed, then a raising of the tray towards the upper film and finally a sealing of the film and of the edge of the tray. In this way, the seam of the upper film and the edge of the tray is attained to be free from creases such that a long-living and good looking package is produced. Additionally, a packaging machine for performing the method is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: MULTIVAC Sepp Haggenmuller GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Johann Natterer
  • Patent number: 7596933
    Abstract: A dual actuator cylinder assembly includes a cylinder body defining first and second axially aligned and separated internal cavities, which extend along aligned longitudinal axes. A first piston is movably mounted in the first internal cavity for movement along the longitudinal axis of the first internal cavity, and a second piston is movably mounted in the second internal cavity for movement along the longitudinal axis of the second internal cavity. A first actuator rod has an inner end interconnected with the first piston and an outer end located exteriorly of the cylinder body, and a second actuator rod has an inner end interconnected with the second piston and an outer end located exteriorly of the cylinder body. Movement of the first piston within the first internal cavity and movement of the second piston within the second internal cavity causes movement of the first and second actuator rods, respectively, in an axial direction along the longitudinal axes of the first and second internal cavities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: CP Packaging, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond G. Buchko
  • Patent number: 7591121
    Abstract: A fluid filling system for a vacuum container includes a fluid supply system configured for filling fluid into a container to be filled, a vacuum exhaust system configured for vacuumizing the container to a predetermined vacuum pressure, and a refrigeration device configured for freezing the fluid filled in the container. A fluid filling method for a vacuum container is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mong-Tung Lin
  • Publication number: 20090229224
    Abstract: A refrigerator includes a cabinet defining an open storage space and including a door with an exterior side and an interior side adapted to receive a modular component. The modular component includes a base removably connected to the interior side and has a first edge and a second edge. A component door is hingedly-connected to the first edge of the base and is operable between an open position and a closed position. The base and component door define a sealed compartment when the component door is in the closed position. First fasteners are disposed on the component door, and second fasteners are disposed on the base. The second fasteners engage the first fasteners to create an airtight seal between the component door and the base. A vacuum device is in communication with the sealed compartment and a heat sealer is disposed on the base or the component door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION
    Inventors: PAUL B. ALLARD, DOUGLAS D. LECLEAR, KAREN J. QUERFURTH, ANDREW M. TENBARGE, JOHN J. VONDERHAAR, MICHELE E. WILCOX
  • Patent number: 7571748
    Abstract: A vacuum container comprises a body coupled with a bottom seat having an air sucking device mounted therein, the body having a micro switch electrically connected to the air sucking device, a fastener having a second lever slidably contacted with a lever of the micro switch, a first lever having a first end with a pin optionally coupled to a hole defined in the body and a second end slidably contacted with the second lever of the fastener, and a spring mounted between the second end of the first lever and a tab of the body; and a cover pivotally connected to the body and having tabs for being clamped with the fastener of the body. When the cover is closed, the air sucking device can automatically start operation to suck air from the container for keeping food fresh therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Mini-Dolphin Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hung Chiang Shao
  • Patent number: 7562511
    Abstract: A linear motion, reciprocating vacuum packaging apparatus and method. Articles to be packaged are advanced in linearly in an upstream-downstream direction, such as by a platen conveyor. A linearly movable, reciprocating vacuum system includes a series evacuation chambers (116a-c), each of which is moved into engagement with one of the platens so that the article enclosed within the evacuation chamber (FIGS. 1 and 2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: CP Packaging, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond G. Buchko
  • Publication number: 20090173048
    Abstract: A method for containerlessly packaging non-woven safety garments to minimize particulate shedding, including at least partially filling a pressing cavity of a orthorhombic parallelepiped shape with compressible, non-woven safety garments, applying isostatic pressure to the cavity to compact the garments into a compressed mass, wrapping the compressed mass and removing the compressed mass from the cavity. The wrapped compressed mass retains a substantially rectangularly parallelepiped shape and is substantially free of loose particulate matter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: QUEST ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Sudhansu S. Yadav, Dana Kellum, Joe Meyer, Scott Nelson, Keith Skeel
  • Patent number: 7549271
    Abstract: An airbag module for use in a motor vehicle is manufactured by first to third steps. In the first step, the airbag is folded into a predetermined configuration, and in the second step, an entire external surface of the airbag, in an initially folded condition obtained in the first step, is wrapped in a bag-shaped film forming member. The bag-shaped film forming member includes a plurality of resin layers formed in a layer-stack manner with regard to a film cross-sectional direction. In the third step, the initially folded airbag is housed in the airbag-housing member in a condition wherein the airbag has an airbag volume reduced to less than the airbag volume at a time of being initially folded, by a compression force applied to the bag-shaped film forming member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Takata Corporation
    Inventors: Kazuya Miwa, Akira Kokeguchi, Wataru Nakazawa
  • Patent number: 7540127
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a vacuum sealer, which exhausts air from a thermal adhesive vacuum bag containing products and then heats and seals the open end of the vacuum bag. The vacuum sealer includes a lower body. An upper body is pivotably mounted to the lower body in such a way as to engage with the lower body. A heater is installed in either or both the lower body or/and the upper body, and heats and seals a vacuum bag. A vacuum space creating member is installed in either or both the lower body or/and the upper body, and isolates an end of the vacuum bag which is evacuated from an exterior, thus creating a vacuum space. A vacuum pump is coupled via a tube to an exhaust hole communicating with the vacuum space created by the vacuum space creating member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventors: Yi-Je Sung, Joon-Chel Shin
  • Patent number: 7530212
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable vacuum packaging machine which, other than a conventional vacuum packaging machine composed of a bulky and weighty single component element, is configured in such a way as to be divided into a body section and a head section, whereby a vacuum packaging work can be conveniently implemented using the head section without requiring movement of the body section, irrespective of place so long as a flat condition is satisfied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Kyul-Joo Lee