Pour channel with cohesive closure valve and locking bubble

[0001] At present, many liquid products are packaged in flexible containers. Flexible containers may for example be made of one or more layers of polymer film. Liquid products, typically packaged in such containers, include, for example, beverages such as fruit flavored beverages, liquid soaps and detergents, hair care products, sunscreen compositions, and the like. Such containers can be cheaper than many aluminum cans and bottles. Flexible containers are also easy to pack and ship.

[0002] Unfortunately, many of the above described flexible containers produced in the past have been somewhat difficult to open. These types of containers are particularly difficult to open to young children, the elderly, or people suffering from hand ailments such as arthritis.

[0003] Another problem with such previously made containers is that it is typically difficult to dispense liquid in a controlled manner. These containers are, for example, opened by peeling off the top of the container, peeling off a corner or inserting a straw into the container. Because these packages are flexible, the containers are prone to spilling their contents, especially when any type of pressure is applied to the container.

[0004] The present disclosure therefore generally targets an improved container that is relatively easy to open and has a built-in pouring channel for dispensing the mixture from the container in a controlled manner. Although all disclosure achievements are well suited for incorporation into flexible containers, it should be understood that this disclosure is also directed to the construction of rigid containers.

[0005] From US-A-3342326 it is known to provide a container for storing and dispensing a mixture comprising a container housing defining an empty internal space, a pouring channel connected to the internal volume of the container housing and a blocking bladder surrounding at least part of the pouring channel, where the blocking bladder is surrounded by a bladder seal, the sealing of the bladder prevents the contents of the inner volume of the container housing from escaping from the container through the pouring channel, and the blocking bladder can be broken when subjected to sufficient pressure, so that the contents of the container can be dispensed through the pouring channel. The container is also known from US 2007/237431. [0006] The container for storing and dispensing compositions of the invention is characterized in that the pouring channel includes a one-way valve that allows the compositions to only escape from the container housing. The container may, for example, hold liquid products, solid products such as powders or granules, or semi-solid products such as gels and pastes.

[0007] A container made in accordance with the present disclosure may be a rigid container or may be a flexible container, such as a bag. In the case of a flexible container, the container may for example be made of a polymer film. In one particular embodiment, the pouring channel and blocking bladder may be integrated into the container housing.

[0008] As described above, the blocking bladder is surrounded by a bladder seal. In one embodiment, the bladder seal may include a break point comprising a weakened portion of the seal. When applying pressure to the blocking bladder, the blocking bladder stops at the breaking point. The breakpoint is in a position to activate the fill channel.

[0009] In one embodiment, the container housing may define a circuit. The fill channel may include a channel that projects from the perimeter. The sides of this channel may normally be in a flat-closed state, forming a closing valve. The consumer can deform the flat sides into an arcuate state by squeezing the filled (or partially filled) container. The arched sides form a filling hole in the pouring channel to the surroundings. The containers are preferably flexible containers that can be stored resting in an upright vertical or horizontal position. Rigid containers may also be used. Internal pressure generated by consumer pressure pushes the flat sides of the fill channel away from each other to open the closure valve and the product can be poured as required.

[0010] After each use, the consumer may close the closing valve by squeezing the arcuate sides of the fill channel together into a flat-closed state. The valve remains closed due to mutual cohesive attraction between the flat side surfaces.

[0011] The liquid contents of the container may wet the flat surfaces of the channel and provide adhesive pull to the closing force.

[0012] The flow valve allows the product to flow from the container and prevents backward flow of ambient air, transferring contaminants from the environment to the container. Due to the non-return valve, the volume of the container gradually decreases with use.

[0013] During shipping and display on the shelf, the pour channel can be locked closed by an external closing bladder that is firmly pressed against the channel, pressing the flat sides together. Opposing portions of the blocking bladder can be conveniently formed by folding along the top of the container. Other ways of forming a blocking bladder are also possible. Vacuum extraction can be used to draw complex layers into opposing hemispherical or semi-cylindrical blisters. The fold may be pressed into the sealing joint around the edges to enclose the surrounding air within the bladder. The strength of this joint is determined by the changing time - temperature - pressure of the ironing cycle. The weak narrow part of the seal defines the breaking point of the blocking bladder. The blocking bladder can be placed in the corner of the container or along the center of the edge.

[0014] The presence of entrapped air inflates the blocking bladder and keeps the flat sides of the closure valve closed. Before initial use, the client "pulls out" or breaks the blocking bladder, releasing closing pressure. Alternatively, the consumer may break or cut off or manually tear off the corner of the container to release air from the blocking bladder and release the blocking pressure. The flat sides of the infusion channel can then be compressed to the open state of the arch. The container can be tilted horizontally to pour out the product. A protruding filling channel can be used. The weight of the product flowing into the closed fill channel can separate the flat sides and cause the channel to open again. The cohesion valve can be manually closed again between uses. The removable blocking bladder stays attached to the container and does not pose a risk of swallowing or becoming general waste. [0015] The filling opening in the pouring channel may protrude into the surroundings or be inside the blocking bladder. The short filling channel only protrudes into the blocking bladder. The container cannot be filled until the edge of the blocking bladder is broken, connecting the filling channel with the surroundings. Before breaking, the consumer presses against the container, causing the closing valve to open temporarily. Air (or liquid) from the container is drawn through the valve into the blocking bladder. This additional air inflates the blocking bladder, increasing the blocking pressure inside the blocking bladder, further closing the closing valve.

[0016] The blocking bladder may be interrupted at the edge by the pressure of the thumb and forefinger (or any other finger or fingers) of one hand. The consumer can grasp the product container closest to the blocking bladder, open, pour from it, all in one single-handed operation. Alternatively, you can use both hands.

[0017] The inner surfaces of the blocking bladder may be coated with adhesive to allow the container to be resealed after initial use. This adhesive can be any suitable chemical or mechanical adhesive. The reclosable cohesive valve eliminates the need for a separate closing device, such as a screw cap or lid.

[0018] The container may have a regular shape, i.e. triangular or quadrangular, or other polygon. Alternatively, the container may be irregular or contoured to allow easy removal and access to the blocking bladder.

[0019] Further aspects and functions of the disclosure are discussed in more detail below. [0020] The full and expandable disclosure of the invention, including its best mode of skill in the art, is set forth in more detail in the remainder of this specification, referring to Figures 4 to 20 of the accompanying figures in which:

Figures 1, 2 and 3 are top views illustrating the structure of the container which is not part of the invention but is included only as information in the field;

Figure 4 is a top view of one embodiment of a container made in accordance with the disclosure,

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the container illustrated in Figure 4;

Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the pouring channel present in the container in Figure 4;

figure 7 is a top view with cutout parts of another embodiment of a blocking bladder and pouring channel for a container made according to the disclosure; Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7; Figure 9 is a top view of a cutout portion of another embodiment of the container made according to the disclosure;

figure 10 is a top view of yet another embodiment of the container made according to the disclosure;

Figure 11 is a top view of yet another embodiment of the container made in accordance with the disclosure;

Figure 12A shows device 110 with storage chamber 110C, chamber access region 110R and corner conduit 112;

Figure 12B is a cross-sectional view of the device 110 of Fig. 12A taken along its reference line 12B, showing the device 110 before breaking; Figure 12C is a cross-sectional view of the device 110 of Fig. 12D taken generally along its reference line 12C, after an interruption showing circumferential interruption 113P; Figure 12D shows the device 110 after being interrupted with an interrupted corner conduit 112 unloading stored fluid 112F from storage chamber 110C to the environment;

Figure 13 shows a flow conduit divided by a barricade dam 126, with a discharge chute 123;

Figure 14 shows a plurality of flow conduits 132X, 132Y and 132Z having the same width; Figure 15 shows a plurality of flow conduits 142S and 142L having different widths;

Figure 16 shows adjacent narrow conduits 152 that expand laterally to join into a single wide conduit; Figure 17 shows a one-way discharge valve 165D located in the discharge pipe 162D and a one-way valve 165A located in the air intake pipe 162A;

Figure 18 shows a plurality of 170K, 170M and 170S storage chambers each with a 172K, 172M and 172S flow conduit; Figure 19 shows a plurality of storage chambers 180L and 180R with a common discharge line 182; and Figures 20A and 20B show a flow channel 192 broken along the entire end of storage chamber 190C.

[0021] The repeated use of cross-reference signs in the present description and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the invention. [0022] A person having ordinary skill in the art will realize that the present discussion is a description of exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the invention.

[0023] Generally, this disclosure is directed to containers for storing and dispensing mixtures containing a built-in pouring channel. According to the disclosure, the infusion channel is surrounded and closed by a blocking bladder. The blocking bubble prevents the contents of the container from escaping from the pouring channel until it is desired to open the container. To open the container, the blocking bladder is interrupted by the user. For example, in one embodiment, the bladder may be designed to "pop up" when squeezed together by a user. As soon as the blocking bladder is broken, the pouring channel becomes available for dispensing the composition from the container.

[0024] Referring to figures 4, 5 and 6, one of the embodiments of a container 10 made according to the disclosure is illustrated. As shown especially in Fig. 5, in this embodiment the container is in the form of a pouch and includes a container housing 12 defining an empty internal volume 14. The container 10 can be designed to store any mixture that can be dispensed from the container by pouring or squeezing the sides of the container. The composition contained in the container 10 may be, for example, a liquid, a refillable solid, such as a powder or granules, a paste or a gel. Specific products that may fit in the container include beverages, car products such as engine oil, engine additives, antifreeze and the like, liquid soaps and detergents, liquid adhesives, gel food products such as yogurt and the like, polishing mixtures and like that. It should be understood that the above list of possible products that can fit into the container is only an example and is not intended to limit in any way the possible uses of the container illustrated in Fig. 4.

[0025] The housing 12 of the container 10 may be made of any suitable material. For example, in one embodiment, the container housing 12 can be made of flexible materials, such as polymer films. Polymers that can be used to form the casing include, for example, polyesters, polyamides, polyvinyl chloride, polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene, and mixtures thereof, copolymers and terpolymers thereof, and the like. When formed, for example, from a polymer film, in one embodiment, the film can be made of multiple layers of polymer. The polymer film may, for example, include a core layer laminated to other functional layers, such as heat sealing layers, oxygen barrier layers and the like. For example, in one embodiment, the polymer film may include a metallized layer providing oxygen barrier properties.

[0026] It should be understood, however, that the container 10 in the form shown in Fig. 4 can also be made of stiffer materials. For example, the container 10 may also be made of coated paper materials and shape-retaining polymers such as polystyrene, polyesters, polyamides, polyvinyl chloride, polyolefins, polycarbonates and the like.

[0027] As shown, in particular in Fig. 4, the container 10 further comprises a spout 16 within the blocking bladder 18. The filling channel 16 serves to dispense the mixture from the container 10. The blocking bladder 18 prevents the mixture from escaping from the container until it is broken bladder, which will be described in more detail below.

[0028] As shown in this particular embodiment, the container housing 12 includes a sealed perimeter 20. The sealed perimeter 20 includes notched sealed edges 24 within the blocking blad 18. Sealed edges 24 terminate the opening 22. Within the opening 22 there is a channel member 26 through which the contents of the container are extracted. The outer surface of the channel member 26 is attached and sealed around the opening 22 (see Fig. 6).

[0029] The channel member 26 may be made of any suitable material. For example, in one embodiment, the channel member 26 may be a rigid tube. However, in other embodiments, the channel member 26 may be made of flexible polyethylene films. In yet another embodiment, the channel member 26 may be integrated into the container housing 12 by bonding opposing sides of the container housing together to form the channel member. If molded from the container housing, the channel member 26 may terminate at the opening 22.

[0030] As illustrated in Fig. 4, the fill channel 16 further includes a one-way valve 28. The one-way valve can be configured to only allow content to escape from the container 10 in a forward direction and is configured to prevent back flow of ambient air or other liquids into the container. The one-way valve 28 is provided not only to assist in dispensing the composition from the container, but also to prevent contamination. The volume of the container gradually decreases as the content is dispensed .

[0031] The design of the one-way valve 28 may vary, depending on the specific embodiment. For example, a one-way valve may include a flap, located within the channel member, which moves only in one direction when the flap is pressurized in one direction with fluid inside the container.

[0032] According to the disclosure, the infusion channel 16 is within the blocking blad 18. The blocking bladder 18 is defined and surrounded by a bladder seal 30, which at least in part is breakable. For example, bladder seal 30 may include a peelable point or portion 32 that is opposite the channel member 26. The breakaway point 32 is a portion of the bladder seal 30 that separates more easily than the remainder of the seal.

[0033] Bladder seal 30 can be made using various techniques and methods. For example, bladder sealing 30 can be made using thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding or glue. For example, in one particular embodiment, bladder seal 30 can be made by placing a heated sealing bar opposite the outer periphery of the bladder and exerting a thermal and pressure effect to form a blocking bladder 18. For example, in this embodiment, the blocking bladder 18 may be made of polymer films.

[0034] Breakaway point 32 of bladder seal 30 can also be made using a variety of techniques and methods. When using a sealing bar to form a bladder seal 30, a break point can, for example, be constructed by varying pressure, changing the temperature or changing the time during which the sealing bar is in contact with the material along the portion of the bladder seal where the break point 32 is to be located.

[0035] In an alternative embodiment, the bladder seal 30 may include a welded portion. On the other hand, the break off point 32 may include a "peel off" portion of the seal. For example, in this embodiment, when the blocking bladder 18 is interrupted along the break point 32, a small hole may be formed along the bladder seal 30. The broken portion of the bladder seal can form two tabs that the user can grip to further break the blocking bladder. In this way, the bladder opening can be increased to a dimension suited to the user's preferences.

[0036] A variety of different methods and techniques are used to form the peelable seal portions. For example, in one embodiment, the break point 32 of bladder seal 30 may include a first portion that is glued to the second portion along the seal. The first part of the break off point may be coated with a pressure sensitive adhesive. This adhesive may include, for example, any adhesive such as acrylate.

[0037] On the other hand, the second and opposite portions of the peel seal may include a film applied or laminated to the release layer. For example, the release layer may include silicone.

[0038] When using an adhesive layer opposite the release layer as described above, the breakaway points 32 of the bladder seal 30 are resealed after the bladder has broken.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, each opposed portion of the bladder seal break point 32 may include a multilayer film. The main layers of the film may include a support layer, a pressure sensitive adhesive component and a thin contact layer. In this embodiment, the two parts of the break point 32 can be brought together and joined together. For example, the thin contact layer of one part may be attached to the thin contact layer of the opposite part using heat and / or pressure. When the blocking bladder 18 is broken and the breakage point 32 of the bladder seal 30 is peeled off, a portion of the sealed area of ​​one of the contact layers is torn off its pressure-sensitive adhesive component and still adheres to the opposite contact layer. Then resealing can be accomplished by reconnecting the pressure-sensitive separated contact part from which it was separated when the layers were peeled off.

[0040] In this embodiment, the contact layer may comprise a film having a relatively low tensile strength and having a relatively long elongation at break. Examples of such materials include polyolefins such as polyethylenes, ethylene copolymers and ethylenically unsaturated comonomers, olefin copolymers and ethylenically unsaturated monocarboxylic acid, and the like. On the other hand, the pressure sensitive adhesive contained within these layers may be one of many hot melt adhesives or otherwise reacting to heat and / or pressure.

[0041] In yet another embodiment, the break point 32 of bladder seal 30 may include a combination of welding and sealing using glue. For example, in one embodiment, the break off point 32 may include a first portion that is welded to the second portion. However, there may also be a tear seal structure along the break point, which in one embodiment may be intervened in the bladder seal welding process to form the break part. The peel seal structure may, for example, include a varnish forming a weak portion along the bladder seal.

[0042] In an alternative embodiment, the adhesive may be spot-applied along the length of the peel point. As soon as the breaking point is broken, the adhesive can then be used to reseal the two parts together after use.

[0043] Referring to Fig. 5, a cross-sectional view of the container 10 is illustrated. As shown, the pouring channel 16 is within the blocking bladder 18. The blocking bladder 18 can be formed around the pouring channel 16 in any suitable configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking bladder 18 includes a first portion 34 opposite to the second portion 36. Referring to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, both the first portion 34 and the second portion 36 overlap the container housing 12 along the perimeter portion. In this way, as shown in Fig. 5, bladder seal 30 is formed at some places by attaching first part 34 and second part 36 to container housing 12, and formed at other parts by directly attaching first part 34 to second part 36. As shown in fig. 4, the break point 32 may be where the first part 34 connects directly to the second part 36. In other embodiments, the break point 32 may, however, be between one of the first or second part and the container housing.

[0044] The blocking bladder 18 is filled with gas such as air. As shown in Fig. 4, the internal volume of the blocking bladder 18 generally remains in fluid communication with the infusion channel 16. To prevent any spillage or leakage of the mixture contained within the inner volume of the container 10 into the inner volume of the blocking bladder 18, the gas pressure within the bladder may be sufficient to prevent the contents of the container from escaping through the pouring channel 16 until the blocking bladder is broken. In this way, the container contents are also substantially prevented from spilling out of the container when the package is opened by the consumer.

[0045] The blocking bladder 18, as described above, is expandable to open the container 10 by external pressure exerted by the customer. For small blisters, the consumer can simply clamp the blister or blisters between the thumb and forefinger. Slightly larger blisters may require squeezing between the thumbs. Pressure can also be applied to the bladder by placing the bladder on a flat surface and applying pressure with what was used to form the container. For example, referring to Figures 1-3, one example of a method of forming a blocking bladder 18 is illustrated. Similar reference numerals have been used to indicate similar elements.

[0046] As shown in Fig. 1, a partially constructed container 10 is shown. The container 10 includes a container housing 12 made of opposite polymer films. The housing of the container 12 includes a closed circuit 20 which includes closed edges 24 and an opening 22. The opening 22 forms a pouring channel 16.

[0047] As shown, the container housing 12 includes two opposing flaps 38 and 40 that extend above the pour channel 16. To form the blocking bladder 18, the flaps are folded along the dotted line 42 to form the configuration shown in Fig. 2. create blocking bladder 18 by forming a seal bladder 30 surrounding the bladder. Bladder seal 30 can be formed using any of the techniques described above. For example, as shown in Fig. 3, the bladder seal 30 may include a permanently closed portion 44 and a peelable portion 32. The permanently closed portion 44 may be formed by thermally bonding the flaps to each other in certain areas and by thermally bonding the flaps to the container housing 12 in other areas. Bladder seal 30 may further include a peel portion 32, which in one embodiment may include a peel seal.

[0048] Referring to figures 7 and 8, another embodiment of the container 10 made according to the disclosure is illustrated. Similar reference numerals were used to indicate similar elements. As shown in Fig. 7, the container 10 includes the container housing 12 defined by the circumference 20. The circumference 20 includes closed edges 24 which define the opening 22. The opening 22 forms the pouring channel 16. In this embodiment, the fill channel 16 is generally halfway up the container as opposed to being placed on the corner of the container as shown in figures 3 and 4.

[0049] As illustrated in Fig. 7, instead of a circular shape, the locking bladder 18 has a semi-circular profile. As shown, the blocking bladder 18 is defined by a bladder seal 30 that includes a break point 32 where the bladder breaks when pressure is applied. The breakaway point 32 is opposite the opening 22 of the fill channel 16.

[0050] Referring to Fig. 8, a cross-sectional view of the pouring channel 16 in a blocking bladder 18 is illustrated. As shown, the blocking bladder 18 includes a first portion 34 attached to the second portion 36.

[0051] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the blocking bladder 18 further includes an adhesive portion 46 located inside the bladder. The adhesive portion 46 is in the bladder to reseal the blocking bladder 18 and container 12 after the blocking bladder has been broken. Any suitable adhesive can be applied to the interior of the bladder surface. For example, in one embodiment, an adhesive can be used that adheres only to itself. In this way, two different adhesive strips can be placed on opposite sides of the bladder. However, in other embodiments, the adhesive can only be applied to one side of the bladder so that it adheres to the opposite side.

[0052] Referring to Fig. 9, another embodiment of the container 10 is illustrated, made in accordance with the disclosure. Again, similar reference numerals were used to indicate similar elements. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 9, the container 10 includes a container housing 12 which is in communication with the pouring channel 16. The filling channel 16 is within the blocking bladder 18 defined by the sealing of the bladder 30. Bladder seal 30 includes a point or breakaway portion 32 opposite the pouring channel 16.

[0053] In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 9, the pouring channel 16 includes an extended portion 50, which is folded within the blocking bladder 18. The extended portion 50 can be integrated with the film layers used to form the container housing, or it can be a separate component, which is attached to the container housing on the opening. The extended portion 50 generally defines a channel for dispensing the contents of the container.

[0054] Once the blocking bladder 18 has been broken, the user may remove the extended portion 50 from the blocking bladder 18 to more easily dispense the contents of the container. In particular, the extended portion 50 may protrude beyond the periphery of the blocking bladder, so that the contents of the container can be dispensed without interfering with the blocking bladder. In one embodiment, the extended portion 50 can be placed in fluid communication with the straw that extends to the bottom of the container. Thus, the extended portion 50 can be used with a straw to allow the user to drink from the container if the container contains a drink or food product.

[0055] It should be understood that the containers made in accordance with the disclosure may have any suitable shape and configuration. As described above, the containers can be made of flexible polymeric films or can be made of rigid materials. Referring to figures 10 and 11, other possible configurations of containers made according to the invention are shown. In Fig. 11, the container 10 includes a container housing 12 communicating with the neck portion 52. At the end of the neck part 52 there is a blocking bladder 18 which, when broken, allows the contents of the container to be dispensed through the pouring channel.

[0056] In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 10, the blocking bladder 18 has a rectangular shape with rounded corners.

[0057] Another configuration of the container 10 according to the disclosure is illustrated in Fig. 11. In Fig. 11, the container 10 has an indentation 54 that can be used to grip and manipulate the container. The container 10 also includes a neck portion 52 terminating in a blocking bladder 18.

[0058] Referring to Figures 12-20, further embodiments of containers made according to the disclosure are illustrated. For example, referring to Figures 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D, a device 110 is shown which has a tear-off flow channel 112 for discharging stored fluid 112F into the environment within storage chamber 110C. The device may be formed by an upper layer 110U and a lower layer 110L pressed into the sealing system to form bubble type flow channels. The chamber access zone 110R is closest to the device's 110P circuit. The tear-off flow channel is within the access area and has an inner end 112C located closest to the storage chamber, and an outer end 112P closest to the perimeter of the device. The flow channel has an external pressed seal

114P between the outer end of the flow channel and the device circuit. The flow channel also has an internal pressed seal 114C between the inner end of the channel conduit and the edge of the storage chamber. The flow channel widens towards the periphery of the device under the action of external pressure, usually exerted by the consumer. This pressure separates the opposing layers until the flow channel breaks the circuit of the device, creating a 113P perimeter break from the flow channel to the environment through the outer seal. The flow channel also widens towards the storage chamber when pressure is applied. The pressure separates the opposing layers until the flow channel breaks the edge of the storage chamber, creating a break in the 113C chamber from the flow channel to the storage chamber through the inner seal (see Figures 12C and 12D). The double-interrupted flow channel 113B establishes a fluid connection between the storage chamber and the environment for discharging the stored fluid.

[0059] The flow channel may be elongated, extending through the access region from the periphery of the device to the edge of the storage chamber. The flow resistance along the sides of the channel forces the flowing fluid to laminar flow with minimal turbulence. The discharged fluid flows from the conduit by a stream that can be directedⁿs.

[0060] The whole device, including the storage chamber as well as the access area can be formed by opposing layers pressed into a sealing system, which simplifies manufacturing. Alternatively, only the access region or only the flow channel can be formed by pressing the layered material. The storage chamber can be formed of another material, avoiding prolonged exposure of the stored fluid to the material of the layers. The layer material may be any suitable material, such as plastic, paper material (containing wood and / or cotton), cellophane or a biodegradable substance. A thin fabric, made of materials such as mylar or plastic or aluminum, creates a flexible film with hermetic properties, and is usually used as a tear-resistant packaging material.

[0061] The stored fluid may be any flowing liquid, syrup, suspension, dispersion, or the like. Low viscosity fluids will flow down under gravity from the storage chamber through a broken wire out into the environment. Higher viscosities can be squeezed out of a flexible chamber bag and through a broken tube, like toothpaste. In addition, the stored fluid can be any refillable powder, such as sugar, salt, medications, or the like that can pass through the flow channel. Powder particles roll, slide, cascade and roll over each other in a fluid manner. Some powders may require knocking or shaking the device in addition to gravity to unload the contents from the storage chamber.

[0062] The flow channel is expandable under the external pressure exerted by the consumer to establish a fluid connection from the chamber to the outside. Internal and external seals can be interrupted separately by pressing twice, one at each end of the hose. Alternatively, these seals can be broken simultaneously by pushing once in the middle of the pipe. For small wires, the consumer can simply clamp the channel or channels between the thumb and forefinger. Slightly larger channels may require thumb pressure on a hard surface such as a table. The consumer may direct the channel extension outward to the environment around the device periphery 110P, exerting pressure along the outer end 112P of the flow channel 112 nearest to the "P" point (see Fig. 12A). The customer may also direct the channel extension inward toward the storage chamber 110C by applying pressure along the inner edge 112C of point C closest to the conduit.

[0063] The expansion of the duct outward gradually separates the opposing layers of the outer seal 114P along the moving separation boundary. This boundary travels through the outer seal until it reaches the periphery of the device, where the channel interrupts it creating an open circuit 113P (see Fig. 12C). Inward expansion of the channel separates opposing layers of the inner seal 114C along a similarly displaceable separation boundary. The fluid in the conduit is forced out of the pressure point to the seals, which causes them to separate. The channel fluid is preferably a compressible gas, but may be any suitable liquid. The gas from the duct is compressed by exerting pressure exerting an expanding force. The outer seal can be resealed after breaking the circuit to reseal the device.

[0064] The inner seal may be stronger than the inner seal due to the higher temperature and / or pressure and / or residence time during seal formation. This means that the inner seal can be bonded together more than the outer seal. The outer seal can be broken first by pushing gas out of the pipe into the environment. As the inner seal is broken, the conduit is compressed to a closed state, preventing the loss of remaining fluid stored.

Barricade Dam - (Fig. 13) [0065] The flow channel may have a barricade dam, which is an additional compressive sealing type barrier between the surroundings and the chamber containing the stored fluid. In the embodiment of Fig. 13, the barricade dam 126 is positioned through the flow channel to divide the flow channel into the inner section of the channel 122C closest to the storage chamber 120C, and the outer section of the channel 122P closest to the perimeter. The barricade has an inner barrier wall 126C facing the inner channel section and an outer barrier wall 126P facing the outer channel section. The inner channel section is expanded by applying pressure at point C. Expansion occurs inwards towards the inner seal 124C and storage chamber 120C, as well as outwards towards the inner barrier wall 126C of the barricade. The outer section of the duct is also expanded by exerting external pressure at point C. The expansion occurs outwards towards the outer seal 124P and the environment, as well as inwards towards the outer barrier wall 126P of the barricade. The widening channels merge with each other, creating a break in the barricade, which removes the barricade dam. The expansion continues under pressure until the inner channel chamber breaks into the storage chamber and the outer channel circuit breaks into the environment. These three interruptions, the interruption of the barricade and the interruption of the chamber and the interruption of the circuit, establish a fluid connection from the storage chamber to the environment, enabling the discharge of accumulated fluid. The need to make three interrupts limits the possibility of accidental releases. Multiple channels - (Figures 14 and 15) [0066] The device may have multiple flow channels to provide multiple interruptions establishing multiple fluid connections between the storage chamber and the environment for multiple flows unloading stored fluid. The device 130 has three flow channels, 132X, 132Y and 132Z (see Figure 14), which provide faster discharge of stored 132F fluid. The consumer can control the discharge flow rate. A single channel may be interrupted for slow flow, additional channels may be interrupted for higher flow rates. In the embodiment of Fig. 14, many flow channels have the same width and flow rates to ensure equal increases in flow efficiency.

[0067] Alternatively, many flow channels may have different widths to provide multiple broken flow channels with different flow capacities. The device 140 has a small flow channel 142S and a large flow channel 142L (see Fig. 15) to provide low and high flow rates. Very high flow rates can be provided by interrupting both of these flow channels. The low flow rate due to the interruption of the small 142S channel combines with the high flow rate due to the interruption of the large 142L channel to ensure a very high flow rate.

Lateral Expansion - (Figures 15 and 16) [0068] Lateral expansion of the expanding flow channels can be prevented during pressure due to the strong side seals. The side seals preferably run along the side of the elongated flow channels from the storage chamber to the environment. The 140 has three side seals, 144S, 144L and 144M (marked with solid parallel lines). The side seal 144S prevents the small flow channel 142S from expanding over the 140P circuit and causing a long and random break in the circuit. The side seal 144L prevents the large flow channel 142L from expanding into chamber 140C and causing long and random rupture of the chamber. The central 144M side seal between the small and large flow channels prevents the channels from expanding into each other. These three side seals provide rigid lateral expansion resistance by directing pressure within the flow channels to cause expansion at the ends. Therefore, expansion due to directed pressure occurs primarily outside towards the periphery of the device and inside towards the chamber. The side seals may be stronger than the inner or outer seal due to the higher temperature and / or pressure and / or residence time during seal formation.

[0069] Alternatively, the side seals may be weak (soft) to allow lateral expansion when pressure is applied. The device 150 (see Figure 16) has flow channels 152 with two strong external side seals, 154S (indicated by continuous parallel lines) and one weak internal 154W side seal. A weak 154W side seal is located between the flow channels 152 and allows lateral expansion of the channels that connect to each other to form a single, large channel. A single larger channel has a flow capacity greater than the sum of the two primary channels. For example, each of the two primary flow channels 152 has a diameter of 6 mm and a cross-sectional area for a flow of approximately 28 mm square. The total primary cross-sectional area is 56 mm square. The connected duct has a diameter of 14 mm (6 mm plus 6 mm plus 2 mm for a central seal 154W) and a cross section for a flow of approximately 154 mm square. These two mm side connections increased the flow efficiency almost three times. The bottom outer side seal 154S may gradually become weaker near the storage chamber to allow limited gradual lateral expansion and increase in the width of the channel 152 near the storage chamber to form a 154F discharge funnel (shown in dashed lines).

[0070] The access area within the device may be located at the corner or between the corners. The device 130 has at least one corner 137 and flow channels located closest to this corner (see Fig. 14). Corner break provided at the corner location facilitates the discharge of stored fluid. Alternatively, the device has two or more corners, and the access region may be closest to the center between the two corners. The device 160 has at least two corners 167 (see Fig. 17), with a flow channel 162D located between these two corners.

Flow valves - (Fig. 17) [0071] In some applications, it is necessary to isolate the ambient air from the storage chamber. The device 160 has a unidirectional discharge valve 165D located in the flow channel 162D (see Fig. 17) to prevent the penetration of the surrounding atmosphere into the storage chamber 160C. The storage chamber may be flexible as shown in Fig. 12 or rigid as shown in Fig. 17. The 110C flexible storage chamber collapses as the stored fluid discharges. Ambient air does not flow into the storage chamber. In addition, the flexible chambers are lightweight and can be crushed, rolled or compacted to a small size, and easily discarded or utilized. The compact flexible chambers do not have covers, lids, projections, or any other small closing gadgets that are dangerous to children and animals. The 160C rigid storage chamber is formed of a rigid, self-supporting material, and cannot collapse as the chamber empties. External air must flow into the storage chamber to replace the fluid being discharged, otherwise a partial vacuum may be created in the chamber to stop the discharge flow. The small 162A air intake duct provides a fluid connection between the rigid storage chamber and the environment. The inlet channel allows replacement air to flow into the chamber to replace the volume of stored fluid that has been discharged through the interrupted flow channel 162D. The one-way air intake valve 165A is located in the air inlet duct to prevent the escape of stored fluid.

Multiple chambers - (figures 18 and 19) [0072] The flow channel device may have a plurality of storage chambers for storing multiple fluids. In the three-chamber embodiment (Figure 18), the device 170 has a first chamber 170K, which can be large and hold a main fluid, e.g. 172K coffee. The 172K main flow channel runs from the main chamber to the environment and provides a fluid connection between them after interruption. The second 170M chamber may be smaller and hold an auxiliary fluid, for example 172M milk. The 172M auxiliary flow channel runs from the second chamber to the surroundings. The third chamber 170S may be even smaller and hold a tertiary fluid, for example a 172S sweetener. The 172S tertiary flow channel runs from the third chamber to the environment. The consumer can access stored liquids separately or together. For example, in a coffee embodiment, a consumer who wants black coffee only interrupts the main flow channel 172K to release coffee from the 170K chamber. The consumer who drinks coffee with cream interrupts both the main 172K flow channel and the 172M secondary flow channel to release coffee from the 170K chamber and milk from the 170M chamber. A consumer who drinks coffee with cream and sugar must break all three flow channels.

[0073] Alternatively, in some embodiments, access to multiple stored fluids may be obtained simultaneously. The device 180 has two storage chambers 180L and 180R (see Fig. 19) connected to the flow channel 182 of the "T" type through the left inner seal 184L and the right inner seal 184R. A "T" flow channel connects to the environment through a common 184P outer seal. Breaking the three seals 184L and 184R and 184P allows both fluids to be discharged simultaneously.

Discharge screeds - (figures 13 and 19) [0074] The device may have a discharge screed protruding from the interrupted flow channel to direct discharge of the stored fluid. The discharge spout 123 (see Figure 13) is an open chute having the end of the channel 123C and the discharge end 123D. The screed protrudes from the flow channel at the end of the channel and discharges at the unloading end. At least the unloading end of the unloading screed may be formed of semi-rigid material that can be bent and shaped to direct discharge. Alternatively, the discharge spout may be a covered discharge tube. The discharge spout 183 (see Figure 19) is formed by opposing layers pressed together. Outer seal

184 the flow channel is located at the unloading end of the unloading screed. End Hole Embodiment Embodiment - (Figures 20A and 20B) [0075] The flow channel may extend across the entire width of the device to provide a large interruption for rapid discharge of stored fluid. The device 190 has a flow channel 192 that extends between the end corners 197 (see Fig. 20A), occupying the entire width of the device 190. Peripheral interruption 190P (see Fig. 20B) also extends over the entire width between the two corners, forming an end hole in the device. The entire end of the device becomes an unloading hole. Strong 194L side seals (shown in continuous parallel lines) can be used to prevent lateral interruptions and indirect lateral discharge. The stored 192F fluid, including powders (represented by cross hatching), can be easily discharged through the end opening of the device.

[0076] These and other modifications and variations of the invention may be practiced by persons having ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, those of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the preceding description is only an example, and is not intended to limit the invention described hereinafter by such appended claims.