CN111532570B

CN111532570B - Hermetic seal for foil lined bulk bags

Info

Publication number: CN111532570B
Application number: CN202010079845.XA
Authority: CN
Inventors: P·A·韦斯布罗德
Original assignee: Lincoln Global Inc
Current assignee: Lincoln Global Inc
Priority date: 2019-02-06
Filing date: 2020-02-04
Publication date: 2023-08-11
Anticipated expiration: 2040-02-04
Also published as: EP3693294A3; JP2020128258A; KR20200097212A; CN111532570A; EP3693294A2; BR102020002398A2

Abstract

The invention described herein relates generally to a system and method relating to a hermetic seal assembly for use with a bag to provide a hermetic seal for the bag that can be opened and closed while maintaining the hermetic seal for the bag and the materials stored therein. The hermetic seal assembly may include a cap and a collar, wherein the collar may be releasably attached to the bag or integrated into an opening of the bag. The cap may include a sampling port and a corresponding removable cap.

Description

Hermetic seal for foil lined bulk bags

Technical Field

Generally, the present invention relates to an airtight seal assembly for a bag or flexible container.

Background

The use of large bag webs, commonly referred to as Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs) or simple bulk bags, has become a common situation for transporting large amounts of materials (e.g., powder materials, granular materials, liquids, etc.). Bulk bags may be lifted, moved, or transported by forklift trucks and other material handling equipment having hooks or tines. Although natural fibers may be used, the cloth for the bulk bag is typically woven from strong strip-like synthetic plastic fibers (e.g., polypropylene, etc.). Flexible intermediate bulk containers have been widely used to receive, store, transport and discharge various types of flowable materials.

Bulk bags may also be manufactured to include an inner layer to prevent atmospheric permeation or exposure to ambient humidity conditions. Typically, a foil laminate may be included as an inner layer to limit moisture adhesion. For example, the bulk bag may contain a flux material that is susceptible to moisture attachment and may cause diffusion of hydrogen in the weld metal. Although bulk bags having an inner layer of foil laminate may limit exposure to moisture, the effectiveness of the foil laminate may be reduced when the bulk bag is opened.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved bulk bag assembly, system, or method that addresses these issues.

Disclosure of Invention

In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a seal assembly system for a bulk bag is provided. The seal assembly may include a pouch storing a material, the pouch including an opening. The pouch comprises an inner layer and an outer layer, wherein the inner layer is a foil laminate and the outer layer is a woven tape structure made of polypropylene. The collar has a top end and an opposite bottom end, an inner wall defining a through passage extending between the top and bottom ends. The collar may include a lip on the top end and a web on the bottom end, wherein the lip is on a perimeter of the top end and the web extends outwardly from the bottom end and is substantially parallel. The web of the collar is integral to the inner and outer layers at the opening. A cover may be provided, the cover being configured for releasable attachment to the lip of the collar to provide an airtight seal at the opening. The cap may include a sampling port and a removable cap configured to seal the sampling port when attached thereto and also provide access to the material when removed from the sampling port while the cap remains attached to the lip of the collar.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a bulk bag is provided. The pouch has a cube-like shape configured to hold a volume of material, the pouch having a front side, a rear side opposite the front side, a left side, a right side opposite the left side, a top side, and a bottom side opposite the top side. The pouch includes an opening on the top side of the pouch, wherein the opening is formed by at least one of an inner layer or an outer layer. The pouch includes an inner layer configured to provide an airtight enclosure for the material, wherein the airtight enclosure is accessible via the opening. The bag includes an outer layer positioned about the inner layer, wherein the outer layer provides structural support and integrity in a braid. The opening includes a neck formed by at least one of the inner layer or the outer layer. The pouch includes a collar having a top end and a bottom end opposite thereto, an inner wall defining a through passage extending between the top and bottom ends, an outer wall opposite the inner wall, and the collar having a thickness and a diameter for the through passage. The collar may be positioned on the neck and at least one of the inner layer or the outer layer folded over a lip of the collar, wherein at least one of the inner layer or the outer layer is folded over an outer wall of the collar. The pouch further includes a cover releasably coupled to the collar, wherein the cover, when attached to the collar, applies a force to press the cover, the outer layer, the inner layer, and a lip of the collar together. The cap may include a sampling port and a removable cap configured to seal the sampling port when attached thereto and also provide access to the material when removed from the sampling port while the cap remains attached to the lip of the collar.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a hermetic seal assembly system including at least: a pouch storing a material, the pouch having a first end and a second end opposite thereto, and an opening at the first end; the pouch comprises an inner layer and an outer layer, wherein the inner layer is a foil laminate and the outer layer is a woven tape structure made of polypropylene; a collar having a top end and a bottom end opposite thereto, an inner wall defining a through passage extending between the top and bottom ends; the collar further includes an outer wall; the collar has: a lip on the tip; a web perpendicular to the outer wall and extending outwardly therefrom; and a support rib located between the lip and the web; the collar is attached around a portion of the bag such that the outer layer is in contact with the inner wall and the outer wall; a compression member configured to be positioned around the collar so as to compress the outer layer and the inner layer toward an outer wall of the collar; and a cap having a top side with a first diameter, the cap configured for releasable attachment to a lip of the collar to provide an airtight seal at the opening, wherein the lip is in contact with the outer layer, the cap is in contact with the inner layer, and the cap can be coupled to the lip with the outer layer and the inner layer therebetween. The cap may include a sampling port having a second diameter less than the first diameter and a removable cap configured to seal the sampling port when attached thereto and also provide access to the material when removed therefrom while the cap remains attached to the lip of the collar.

These and other objects of the present invention will be apparent when viewed in light of the accompanying drawings, detailed description and appended claims.

Drawings

The invention may take physical form in certain parts and arrangement of parts, the preferred embodiment of which will be described in detail in this specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a hermetic seal assembly having a cap separate from a collar;

FIG. 2 illustrates a hermetic seal assembly having a cap attached to a collar;

FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the hermetic seal assembly with the cap separated from the collar;

FIG. 4 illustrates a bottom view of the collar of the hermetic seal assembly;

FIG. 5 illustrates a bag having a laminated polypropylene sheet or film;

FIG. 6 shows a woven structure of bags;

FIG. 7 illustrates a flexible freight bag;

FIG. 8 illustrates a gas-tight seal assembly integrated onto a side of a bag having an opening;

FIG. 9 shows a collar of the hermetic seal assembly attached around the open end of the bag;

FIG. 10 illustrates a gas-tight seal assembly sealing the open end of a bag;

FIG. 11 illustrates a gas-tight seal assembly sealing an opening of a bag;

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of a collar of the hermetic seal assembly;

FIG. 13 illustrates a top view of the collar of the hermetic seal assembly;

FIG. 14 illustrates a bottom view of the collar of the hermetic seal assembly;

FIG. 15 illustrates a front side view of the collar of the hermetic seal assembly, wherein the rear, left and right views are mirror images of the front side view;

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the lid of the hermetic seal assembly;

FIG. 17 illustrates a bottom view of the lid of the hermetic seal assembly;

FIG. 18 illustrates a top view of the lid of the hermetic seal assembly;

FIG. 19 shows a view of the outer and inner layers of a bag having a neck and an opening;

FIG. 20 shows a view of an opening in a bag having an outer layer and an inner layer;

FIG. 21 illustrates a view of an airtight seal assembly for use with a bag having one or more layers with compression members to facilitate connectivity;

FIG. 22 illustrates a view of an embodiment of a cap of the hermetic seal assembly;

FIG. 23 illustrates a view of an embodiment of a cap of the hermetic seal assembly with a removable port plug;

FIG. 24 illustrates a process of obtaining a sample using a port in the cap of the hermetic seal assembly; and is also provided with

Figure 25 illustrates a venting process utilizing a bag and corresponding hermetic seal assembly.

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and systems related to a hermetic seal assembly for use with a bulk bag to provide a hermetic seal for the bulk bag that can be opened and closed while maintaining a hermetic seal for the bulk bag and the materials stored therein. The hermetic seal assembly may include a cover and a collar, wherein the collar may be releasably attached to a portion of the bulk bag or integrated into an opening of the bulk bag.

As used herein, "welding" (including any other form of these words) will refer to depositing molten material by operation of an arc, including but not limited to submerged arc welding, GTAW welding, GMAW welding, MAG welding, MIG welding, TIG welding, any high energy heat source (e.g., laser, electron beam, etc.), or by operation of any arc used with a welding system. Moreover, the welding operation may be directed to workpieces that include a coating (such as, but not limited to, a zinc coating).

As used herein, a "component" or "controller" may be part of hardware, part of software, or a combination thereof that may include or utilize at least a portion of a processor and memory, where the memory includes instructions to be executed.

As used herein, a "bag" may be a bulk bag, and/or an item containing material, wherein the material contained or stored may be a solid, a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof. The bag may include an inner layer and an outer layer, wherein the inner layer provides a barrier to atmospheric conditions and the outer layer provides durability and rigidity. In an embodiment, the outer layer may be a belt woven structure. The inner and/or outer layers may be made of any suitable material chosen with sound engineering judgment. In an example, the bag may include one or more chambers, where each chamber stores or holds a material. For example, the bag may include a first chamber that stores or holds a first material, a second chamber that stores or holds a second material, and a third chamber that holds or stores a third material. In such examples, each chamber may contain an appropriate material for the corresponding layer based at least in part on the material contained therein. It should further be appreciated that each layer of the pouch may include a thickness, wherein the thickness may be based on at least one of the materials stored within such a cavity or the materials from which the layers are made. The bag may be shaped and sized, wherein the bag includes at least one of an open end or an opening. It should be understood that the pouch may include one or more open ends. In another example, it should be appreciated that the bag may include one or more openings. The bag may be configured to define a volume and have a shape with at least one opening for access or dispensing/filling.

While the embodiments discussed herein relate to the systems and methods discussed above, these embodiments are intended to be exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of applicability of these embodiments to only those discussed herein. The control systems and methodologies discussed herein are equally applicable to systems and methods associated with arc welding, laser welding, brazing, soldering, plasma cutting, water jet cutting, laser cutting, and any other system or method using similar control methodologies, and may be used therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention discussed above. The embodiments and discussion herein may be readily incorporated into any of these systems and methods by those skilled in the art. By way of example and not limitation, a power source (e.g., a welding power source, etc.) as used herein may be a power source of a device performing welding, arc welding, laser welding, brazing, soldering, plasma cutting, water jet cutting, laser cutting, etc. Thus, a person with good engineering ability and judgment may select a power source other than a welding power source without departing from the intended coverage of embodiments of the subject invention.

In addition, the hermetic seal assemblies described herein may relate to any environment in which the bag is used, and the contents of such bags need not be associated with a welding environment or welding system.

Referring to the drawings, like numerals indicate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views. However, the inclusion of the same elements in different views does not necessarily imply that a given embodiment includes such elements or that all embodiments of the invention include such elements. The examples and drawings are illustrative only and are not meant to limit the invention, which is measured by the scope and spirit of the claims.

Fig. 1-4 and 12-18 illustrate a hermetic seal assembly 100 that includes a collar 102 and a cap 104. Collar 102 may include a top end 106 and an opposite bottom end 108. Collar 102 may include a through passage 103 (shown in fig. 12) between a top end 106 and a bottom end 108. Collar 102 may be used in a gas-tight seal assembly for a bag, wherein collar 102 is attached to or placed around the open end of the bag. The cap 104 may be releasably coupled to the collar 102, wherein the cap 104 may include a top side 118, a bottom side 120, a sidewall between the top side and the bottom side, and a protrusion 122 on a perimeter of the cap 104. In an embodiment, the cover 104 may include a locking mechanism that is removable from the collar 102 over the first opening of the cover 104.

Collar 102 may include an inner wall 124 and an outer wall 126. In an embodiment, the collar 102 and the cover 104 may be circular in shape. It should be appreciated that the shape of collar 102 and cap 104 may be selected with sound engineering judgment and that the shape of collar 102 and/or cap 104 is not limiting to the subject invention. Collar 102 may include a lip 110 on top end 106, wherein lip 110 is configured to mate with a clearance portion 128 on the underside of cover 104. The outer wall 126 of the collar 102 may further comprise a web 111 for integrating or coupling at least one of a portion of the bag or a layer of the bag. In particular, the opening of the bag may comprise a perimeter, wherein the web 111 is heat welded such that the perimeter of the web 111 matches the perimeter of the opening of the bag. The web 111 may include a first portion 114 for rigidity and a second portion 116 that is integrated with at least one of the pouch or one or more pouch layers (e.g., inner layer, outer layer, additional layer, combinations thereof) when heat welded. It should be appreciated that the first portion 114 has a first thickness and the second portion 116 has a second thickness, wherein the first thickness is greater than the second thickness.

Collar 102 may further include support ribs 112 located on an outer wall 126 of collar 102 and between lip 110 and web 111. The support ribs 112 may be used to provide support for the gas-tight seal assembly and/or bag during filling, refilling, emptying, accessing the bag contents, cleaning, and the like. Further, a portion of the pouch may be integrated or coupled to collar 102 at a location on outer wall 126, between support rib 112 and bottom end 108 or web 111.

In an embodiment, collar 102 may be integrated onto the opening of the bag (discussed in more detail below and shown at least in fig. 8). In particular, the collar 102 may be integrated with or coupled to at least one of the bag or one or more layers of the bag, wherein the perimeter of the bottom end 108 of the collar 102 is integrated onto the perimeter of the opening of the bag. It should be appreciated that collar 102 may be coupled to a portion of a bag or a portion of an opening of a bag. In another embodiment, collar 102 may be placed around the open end of the bag, with the bag folded outwardly over collar 102, wherein cover 104 compresses and seals the folded portion of the bag between cover 103 and lip 110 of collar 102 (discussed below and shown at least in fig. 9-11). In such embodiments, a portion of the open end of the bag may be integrated or coupled to a portion of the collar. With continued reference to such embodiments, a portion of the bag where the opening is located may be placed through the through passage 103. A portion of the bag passing through collar 102 may be turned inside out (e.g., folded) over collar 102 and cover 104 may be releasably attached to collar 102 such that the bag is cinched between cover 104 and the collar while the opening is closed.

As discussed above, the hermetic seal assembly 100 may include the collar 102 and the cap 104, each of which may include a corresponding shape and size such that the cap 104 may be releasably coupled to the collar 102. In an embodiment, collar 102 may include an inner diameter of approximately 10 inches to 14 inches. Further, the height of the collar 102 (e.g., between the top end 106 and the bottom end 108) may be approximately 1 inch to 5 inches. The web 111 may have a width extending outwardly from the outer wall 126 of approximately 1 inch to 5 inches. Further, the first thickness 114 of the web 111 may be approximately 1/8 inch and the second thickness 116 may be 0.015 inch. However, it should be appreciated that the diameter, height, shape, and/or size of the collar or any component of the hermetic seal assembly (e.g., cap, web, etc.) may be selected with sound engineering judgment without departing from the scope of the subject invention.

In an embodiment, the web 111 may be interposed between the inner layer of the bag and the outer layer of the bag, wherein the web is integrated onto a portion of the inner layer or outer layer. In another embodiment, the inner and outer layers may be integrated together and integrated or coupled to a portion of the collar 102 such that the bottom side of the connection plate 111 is integrated or coupled thereto. In another embodiment, the inner and outer layers may be integrated together and integrated or coupled to a portion of the collar 102 such that the top side of the connection plate 111 is integrated or coupled thereto.

Fig. 2 illustrates a cap 104 attached or releasably coupled to collar 102. The cover 104 may include a top side 118 and a bottom side 120 and a sidewall therebetween, wherein the bottom side 120 includes a gap 128 configured to receive a portion of the lip 110 on the collar 102. It should be appreciated that the gap 128 may be positioned on the bottom side 120 of the cover 104, wherein the gap 128 and the lip 110 are connected using a tongue and groove. The cap 104 may be configured for releasable coupling to the collar 102 and such connectivity may be selected with sound engineering judgment without departing from the scope of the subject invention. By way of example and not limitation, the cap 104 may be coupled to the collar 102 by at least one of a male-female coupling, a threaded coupling, a press-fit coupling, a tongue-and-groove coupling, and the like.

Fig. 3 shows a top perspective view of an embodiment of a hermetic seal assembly 300 comprising a collar 302 and a cap 304, the collar and cap being attachable to the open end of the bag by inserting the open end of the bag through the collar 302, folding the end around the collar 302, and pressing a portion of the bag against the top end of the collar 302 using the cap 304. Fig. 4 illustrates a bottom perspective view of hermetic seal assembly 300. Collar 302 may include a top end 306 and an opposite bottom end 308. Collar 302 may include a through passage 303 between a top end 306 and a bottom end 308. Collar 302 may be used in a hermetically sealed assembly of bags, wherein a portion of the bag is placed through a through passage 303 of collar 302. The cap 304 may be releasably coupled to the collar 302. In an embodiment, the cap 304 may include a locking mechanism that may be removed from the collar 302 over the first opening of the cap 304.

Collar 302 may include an inner wall 324 and an outer wall 326. In an embodiment, the collar 302 and the cap 304 may be circular in shape. It should be appreciated that the shape of collar 302 and cap 304 may be selected with sound engineering judgment and that the shape of collar 302 and/or cap 304 is not limiting to the subject invention. Collar 302 may include a lip 310 on top end 306, wherein lip 310 is configured to mate with a gap or rim portion on the underside of cover 304.

Collar 302 may further include support ribs 312 located on an outer wall 326 of collar 302 and between lip 310 and bottom end 308. The support ribs 312 may be used to provide support for the gas-tight seal assembly and/or bag during filling, refilling, emptying, accessing the bag contents, cleaning, and the like.

It should be appreciated that the cap 104 may be used with either the collar 102 or the collar 302. In another embodiment, it should be appreciated that the cap 304 may be used with either the collar 302 or the collar 102. In other words, the cap may be generic or specific to an embodiment of the collar of the hermetic seal assembly.

Fig. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a woven bag 500. The bag 500 may be a polypropylene woven bag construction and all of the waste from a typical job site may be safely contained within a bag formed from woven fabric such that the bag may be a disposable bag that is folded up to provide at the job site and then opened and filled. Once filled, the bag 500 can be lifted from its top and transported to a disposal site. The bag 500 may have a side 502 comprised of a longitudinally extending webbing 504 and a laterally extending strap 506. Bag 500 may include a closed end 510 and an open end 508. In an embodiment, as illustrated, the closed end 510 may be folded upon itself and sewn at the bottom of the pouch via a seam 512 to complete the pouch 500. Bag 500 may include an open end 508, a closed end 510 opposite thereto, a side 502, a back side (opposite front side 502), a left side, and a right side. The bag 500 may contain or store a volume. As discussed above, the pouch 500 may include one or more layers. For example, the pouch 500 may include an inner layer that is hermetically sealed and an outer layer that is positioned outside the inner layer, wherein the outer layer is a braid having sidewalls (e.g., front, back, left, right), an open end 508, and a closed end 510. This is further illustrated in fig. 19-21.

The shape of the pouch 500, which is configured to store or hold a volume of material, may be selected with sound engineering judgment without departing from the scope of the subject invention. In an embodiment, the pouch 500 may be cubical in shape, having a front side, a rear side opposite the front side, a left side, a right side opposite the left side, a top side, and a bottom side opposite the top side. In an example, the bag 500 may include at least one opening through which the interior of the bag 500 may be accessed. In another example, the pouch 500 can include an open end, wherein at least one of the front side, the back side, the left side, the right side, the top side, or the bottom side is open.

Turning to fig. 6, a portion of a ribbon braid 600 for a pouch 500 is shown. In an embodiment, the width of the strip may be between two (2) and eight (8) millimeters, but the width may be selected based at least on a reasonable engineering judgment of the material to be contained/stored in the bag. For example, it should be understood that the tighter the braid, the more the strap, and the greater the physical strength characteristics of the bag. The use of wider tapes can translate into fewer braids involved, so the bag can be lighter than a tighter braid.

Turning to fig. 9, 10 and 11, a collar 302 and cap 304 for use with a pouch 500 are shown. Collar 302 and cap 304 may be used with bag 500, with open end 508 of bag 500 placed through collar 302, and in particular, open end 508 inserted into through-channel 303 (shown in fig. 3). The portion of the open end 508 of the pouch 500 is inserted through the top end 306 and fan out around the lip 310 of the collar 302. The cap 304 may be placed over the collar 302 to pinch the perimeter of the opening of the pouch 500 between the cap 304 and the lip 310 of the collar 302. In particular, the lip 310 is in contact with a portion of the outer layer 501 (folded over collar 302) of the pouch 500 and the cover 304 is in contact with the inner layer 503 of the pouch 500 (as shown in fig. 10 and 11). This connectivity allows collar 302 and cap 304 to provide an airtight seal for the opening of bag 500, wherein cap 304 is sealable and resealable. Collar 302 and cap 304 may be used with a bag having an opening, such as opening 508, and may be adapted for and/or used with a bag without any structural changes or modifications to the bag.

Turning to fig. 7, a bag 700 is shown in a perspective view. The bag 700 may generally be transported or shipped on a pallet 702. Bag 700 may include one or more loops 704 adjacent to upper surface 706. For example, one or more loops 704 may help to move bag 700 to and from different locations. Bag 700 may include sidewalls 708 (e.g., front, back, left, right). The pouch 700 may further comprise a top side and an opposite bottom side, wherein the top side may comprise an opening. In other embodiments, the pouch 700 may include an open end on the top side, wherein the collar 302 and the cap 304 may be used to provide an airtight seal.

Fig. 8 illustrates collar 102 integrated into bag 700, wherein cover 104 is shown attached to the collar, thereby providing an airtight seal. In particular, collar 102 is integrated onto the top side of bag 700, but it should be understood that collar 102 may be integrated into any side or location of bag 700. For example, the hermetic seal assembly (e.g., collar 102, cover 104) may be located on a side wall of bag 700 or on a bottom side of bag 700.

Fig. 12-15 illustrate collar 102. In particular, fig. 12 is a perspective view of collar 102. Fig. 13 shows a top view of collar 102 of the hermetic seal assembly. Fig. 14 shows a bottom view of collar 102 of the hermetic seal assembly. Fig. 15 shows a front side view of collar 102 of the hermetic seal assembly, wherein the rear, left and right views are mirror images of the front side view.

Fig. 16-18 illustrate a cap for use with a hermetic seal assembly in accordance with the subject invention. Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a cap for use with the hermetic seal assembly. Fig. 17 shows a bottom view of the lid of the hermetic seal assembly. Fig. 18 shows a top view of the lid of the hermetic seal assembly.

As discussed above, a portion of collar 102 (shown in fig. 1) may be integrated or coupled to a portion of the bag. In another embodiment, a portion of collar 302 (shown in fig. 3) may be integrated with or coupled to a portion of the bag. It should be appreciated that the integration or coupling may be selected with sound engineering judgment without departing from the scope of the subject invention. By way of example and not limitation, integrating a portion of the collar onto a portion of the bag may be performed by, but is not limited to, hot plate welding, flat plate welding, pulse welding, hot bar welding, interleaving a portion of the bag with a portion of the collar, inserting a portion of the collar between one or more layers of the bag, fusing a portion of the bag onto the collar, fusing a portion of the collar onto the bag, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment, a portion of the collar may be coupled to a portion of the bag, wherein such coupling may be, but is not limited to, gluing, pressing, adhering, bolting, riveting, or a combination thereof.

In yet another embodiment, collar 302 may be releasably coupled to an outer or outer layer of the bag after the bag is inserted into collar 302 through opening 303. One or more layers of the bag may be integrated with or coupled to at least one of the following: the outer wall 326 of the collar 302, the inner wall 324 of the collar 302, the lip 310, the bottom end 308, the support rib 312, or a combination thereof.

In an embodiment, the open end of the bag may include a compression member 1914 that aids in the connectivity between the bag and collar 302. For example, the compression member 1914 may be placed to maintain a force when inserting the open end of the bag through the collar 302 and folding it over the lip 310 of the collar such that a portion of the folded bag is coupled to a portion of the collar 302. It should be appreciated that the compression member 1914 may be integrated or woven into the open end of the bag or may be a separate component that is not part of the weave or bag. The compression member 1914 may apply a force that squeezes a portion of the bag to couple to a portion of the collar 302.

Turning to fig. 19-21, a gas-tight seal assembly system is illustrated. Fig. 19 illustrates a portion of a bag 1900, wherein the bag has a cube-like shape (e.g., bottom, left side, right side, front side, back side, and top) with an opening on the top. In fig. 19, the pouch is shown having an outer layer 1902 and an inner layer 1904. By way of example and not limitation, the inner layer 1902 may be a foil laminate and the outer layer 1904 may be a polypropylene tape woven structure. It should be appreciated that the pouch 1900 may include one or more layers, and that the outer layer 1902 and the inner layer 1904 are not limiting to the subject invention. Further, the outer layer 1902 may be made of a first material and the inner layer 1904 may be made of a second material, wherein the first material may be selected with sound engineering judgment to provide structural strength, integrity, and durability to the pouch, and the second material may be selected with sound engineering judgment to prevent air from entering the inner layer 1904 or contaminating materials stored or contained within the inner layer 1904. For example, the outer layer 1902 may be a braid of strips of one or more materials in the form of strips or fibers. In another example, inner layer 1904 can be plastic or other gas impermeable material.

The inner layer 1904 may be formed as an airtight and/or airtight seal for the bag 1900, thereby not allowing the contents of the inner layer 1904 to be exposed. The inner layer 1904 may be formed from one or more sheets of material and coupled together to form a shape having a volume of stored material. By way of example and not limitation, the shape of the inner layer 1904 of the pouch may be a cube such that the cube is formed from 6 (six) sheets of material joined together at seams to form a cube-like shape. As discussed, the inner layer 1904 may include an hermetically sealed opening, but the opening may be opened or broken when the contents of the bag are ready for use. It should be appreciated that the outer layer 1902 may include an outer portion and an inner portion, wherein the inner portion is in contact with the outer portion of the inner layer 1904 and the outer portion is exposed to elements outside the pouch. Further, it should be appreciated that the inner layer 1904 may include an outer portion and an inner portion, wherein the inner portion is in contact with the material stored therein and the outer portion is in contact with the inner portion of the outer layer 1902. If the pouch 1900 includes an additional layer, the additional layer may be located between the outer layer 1902 and the inner layer 1904.

Fig. 19 illustrates a pouch 1900 in which the outer layer 1902 is removed on the top side of the pouch to expose and reveal the inner layer 1904 and the opening 1908. In an embodiment, the inner layer 1904 may be manufactured with a seam to form the shape of the bag 1900 such that the opening 1908 is positioned on and centered over the top side of the bag 1900. The opening 1908 may be formed by an inner layer 1904 forming a neck 1906. It should be appreciated that the outer layer 1902 surrounds the inner layer 1904 and will have openings corresponding to the openings 1908, but the outer layer 1902 is partially shown to reveal the inner layer 1902.

Fig. 20 shows a view of the neck of a bag 1900 and folded outer 1902 and inner 1904 layers. Fig. 20 shows a pouch 1900 having an outer layer 1902 and an inner layer 1904, both of which are folded, thereby forming an outer layer fold 1912 and an inner layer fold 1910. The opening 1908 may be further exposed while reducing the size of the neck 1906 by rolling or folding the inner layer 1904 and the outer layer 1902. In an embodiment, inner layer 1904 may be rolled or folded separately from outer layer 1902 (as shown in FIG. 20). In another embodiment, the outer layer 1902 and the inner layer 1904 may be folded or rolled together (as shown in FIG. 21). In either embodiment, collar 302 may be positioned over opening 1908 so as to allow the rolled or folded portion of the layer to be positioned over outer wall 326 of collar 302, wherein lip 310 of collar 302 is in contact with at least one of the exterior of inner layer 1904 or the exterior of outer layer 1902. For example, if the outer layer 1902 and the inner layer 1904 are folded or rolled together over the lip 310 of the collar 302, the lip 310 is in contact with the exterior of the outer layer 1902. In another example, if the inner layer 1904 is folded or rolled over the lip 310 of the collar 302 separately, the lip 310 will contact the exterior of the inner layer 1904. The number of folds or curls may be selected with sound engineering judgment so as to reduce the neck 1908 so that the collar 302 may fit over the opening and allow the cap 304 to be coupled to the collar while this coupling tightens the layers of the bag together. It should be appreciated that excess material from the folds or rolls of the bag may be removed or cut from the bag 1900.

Fig. 21 illustrates collar 302 coupled to a folded layer (e.g., outer layer 1902, inner layer 1904), wherein the coupling is such that collar 302 is placed over opening 1908 and the folded layer is placed over outer surface 324 of collar 302. Collar 302 may be attached or coupled to bag 1900 at the location where the layers are folded and at opening 1908. The coupling may cause the outer layer 1902 and the inner layer 1904 to fold over the lip 310, the outer layer 1902 being in contact with the lip 310, and the inner layer 1904 being exposed to the exterior of the pouch 1900. The cover 304 may be attached to the collar lip 310 to pinch the bag layer between the cover 304 and the collar lip 310. The compression member 1914 may be further positioned around the collar 302 and the fold layer to press the fold layer against the outer wall 326. It should be appreciated that the compression member 1914 may be a rubber material, a polymer, a synthetic material, a natural material, a clamp, an elastic cord, a rope, a string, a ratchet strap, a tie, a shrink-wrapped plastic member, an elastic band, or the like.

In an embodiment, the collar is a first shape having a first size and the opening of the bag is a first shape having a second size, wherein the first size is greater than the second size. In an embodiment, the web extends outwardly from the bottom end. In an embodiment, the web includes a first thickness and a second thickness, wherein the first thickness is greater than the second thickness and is positioned proximate the bottom end as compared to the second thickness. In an embodiment, a portion of the web is integrated between one or more layers of the bag. In an embodiment, a portion of the web is integrated onto the inner layer of the bag. In an embodiment, a portion of the web is coupled to the outer layer and the outer layer is coupled to the inner layer. In an embodiment, a portion of the web is coupled to the inner layer of the bag. In an embodiment, the seal assembly further comprises a heat weld securing a portion of the collar to a portion of the bag. In an embodiment, the seal assembly further comprises a support rib on the outer wall of the collar between the lip and the web.

Turning now to fig. 22, a cover 2004 is shown. The cap 2004 may include some or all of the same components and features described above with respect to the cap 104 or cap 304. For example, the cap 2004 may be releasably coupled to the collar 102, wherein the cap 2004 may include a top side 2018, a bottom side (not shown), a sidewall between the top side 2018 and the bottom side, and a tab 2022 on a perimeter of the cap 2004. In an embodiment, the cap 2004 may include a locking mechanism that is removable from the collar 102 over the first opening of the cap 2004.

In addition, the cap 2004 may further include a sampling port 2006 and a corresponding cap. The sampling port 2006 allows a user to insert a sampling device (such as a sampling sampler) into the sampling port 2006 to obtain a sample of the contents of the bag 1900. By using the sampling port 2006, the user does not need to remove the cap 2004 from the collar/bag connection to obtain the sample. Thus, the seal formed between the cap 2004, collar 102, and pouch 1900 remains intact and undisturbed, thereby preventing wear and tear caused by friction on the pouch 1900 during removal and replacement of the cap 2004. The sampling port 2006 allows the contents of the bag 1900 to be monitored periodically over time without risk of damaging the bag 1900 at the location of engagement of the cap 2004 to the collar 102. Further, the sampling port 2006 may allow a user to vent the bag 1900 without removing the cap 2004 from the collar 102 and the bag 1900.

The sampling port 2006 may be molded into the top side of the cap 2004. The cap corresponds to the opening of the sampling port 2006 and can seal the sampling port 2006 when coupled with the opening. Depending on the type of sampling port 2006 used, cap 2008 may be, for example, a threaded cap, plug 2008, latch cover, or the like. In certain embodiments, the cap is recessed below the top side 2018 of the cap 2014 when the cap is coupled with the opening of the sampling port 2006. In some embodiments, the seal 2010 may be placed or adhered to the cap such that a portion of the seal 2010 is adhered to the cap and another portion of the seal 2010 is adhered to the top side 2018 of the cap 2004. In this way, when the user removes the cap from the sampling port 2006, the seal 2010 will tear. The torn seal 2010 may provide an indication that the cap has been removed. It should be appreciated that the seal 2010 may be installed by the original manufacturer or distributor, and any available tamper-evident (tamper-evident) treatment or selection means of the seal 2010 may be used to increase the likelihood of the seal 2010 breaking upon removal of the cap. The top side 2018 of the cap 2004 may also include a label 2012 that may include information, including identification information or material safety information, such as user instructions related to sampling the pouch 1900 contents through the sampling port 2006, venting the pouch 1900 through the sampling port 2006, and/or information about the pouch 1900 contents.

By way of example and not limitation, sampling port 2006 may be circular and/or have a diameter of 70 mm. However, it should be understood that the sampling port 2006 may have any shape or size selected using sound engineering judgment. In certain embodiments, the diameter of the sampling port 2006 may be less than the diameter of the top side 2018 of the cap 2004. In one embodiment, sampling port 2006 is a threaded port, such as a buttress threaded port. In this embodiment, the cap is a corresponding threaded cap that the user can use to seal the sampling port 2006 by threading the cap onto the sampling port 2006 threads. To remove the threaded cap to access the sampling port 2006, the user may unscrew the threaded cap from the sampling port 2006. In another embodiment, the sampling port 2006 may have a plug port configuration. In this embodiment, the cap is a corresponding plug 2008 (e.g., a colored plug), which the user can use to seal the sampling port 2006 by inserting the plug 2008 into the sampling port 2006. Plug 2008 may be sized such that plug 2008 is retained within sampling port 2006 using a friction fit or a snap fit. Plug 2008 may include a ring 2014 attached to the top of plug 2008. The ring 2014 allows a user to insert a finger into the ring 2014 so that the user can pull the plug 2008 out of the sampling port 2006, as shown in fig. 23. In some embodiments, the seal 2010 may be adhered on top of the ring 2014 such that the seal 2010 must be broken in order for a user to access the ring 2014 and remove the plug 2008 from the sampling port 2006.

Turning now to fig. 24, a process for obtaining a sample is depicted. Once the cap (e.g., plug 2008) is removed from the sampling port 2006, the user may access the contents of the pouch 1900 through the open sampling port 2006. For example, a user may insert the sampling sampler 2024 through the sampling port 2006 and into the bag 1900. In this manner, a user may obtain a sample of the contents of the bag 1900 through the sampling port 2006, which eliminates the need to remove the cap 2004 from the collar 102 and the bag 1900 in order to obtain the sample. In one example, a user may obtain a sample of the contents of bag 1900 by taking a multi-stage cross-section sample from the contents using sample sampler 2024. Once the desired sample is obtained, the user may remove the sample sampler 2024 from the sampling port 2006 and reinsert a cap (e.g., plug 2008) into the sampling port 2006.

Turning now to fig. 25, the exhaust process is depicted. In addition to providing access to the contents of the bag 1900, the sampling port 2006 may also allow a user to vent the bag 1900. If the cover 2004 or cap is removed, the bag 1900 should be vented to remove all or most of the air contained in the bag 1900 before anything is stacked on the bag 1900. With the cap removed, the user may compress the top of the bag 1900 to force air 2026 out of the bag through the open sampling port 2006. After venting the bag 1900, the user may then reattach (e.g., screw on the threaded cap or reinsert the plug 2008) the cap into the sampling port 2006.

The above-described systems, components (e.g., the hermetic seal assembly system 100, the hermetic seal assembly 300, the collar 102, the cap 104, the collar 302, the cap 304, the cap 2004, the pouch 500, the pouch 700, the pouch 1900, the compression member 1914, etc.), and the like have been described with respect to interactions between several components and/or elements. It should be understood that such means and elements may include those elements or sub-elements specified therein, some of the specified elements or sub-elements, and/or additional elements. Furthermore, one or more elements and/or sub-elements may be combined into a single component to provide an aggregate functionality. These elements may also interact with one or more other elements not specifically described herein.

The above examples are merely illustrative of several possible embodiments of various aspects of the present invention, wherein equivalent alterations and/or modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (assemblies, devices, systems, circuits, etc.), the terms (including a reference to a "means") used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated implementations of the invention. Furthermore, while a particular feature of the invention may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Further, to the extent that the terms "includes," including, "" has, "" with, "or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description and/or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term" comprising.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

In the description and claims, reference will be made to a number of terms having the following meanings. The singular forms "a", "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify a quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term such as "about" is not to be limited to the precise value specified. In some cases, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Moreover, unless specifically stated otherwise, the use of the terms "first," "second," etc. do not denote a particular order or importance, but rather the terms "first," "second," etc. are used to distinguish one element from another.

As used herein, the terms "can" (and "can be)" and "can be" indicate the likelihood of occurrence in a set of circumstances; possession of a specified characteristic, feature or function; and/or define another verb by expressing one or more of a capability (capability), or likelihood associated with the defined verb. Accordingly, the use of "may" and "may be" indicates that the modified term is obviously appropriate, competent, or applicable for the capability, function, or use being represented, while it is contemplated that in some circumstances the modified term may sometimes not be appropriate, competent, or applicable. For example, in some cases an event or capability may be expected, while in other cases no event or capability may occur—the terms "may" and "may be" fully reflect this difference.

The best mode for carrying out the application has been described for the purpose of illustrating the best mode known to the inventors at the time and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to practice the application, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The examples are illustrative only and are not meant to limit the application as measured by the scope and value spirit of the claims. The application has been described with reference to preferred and alternative embodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this specification. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof. The patentable scope of the application is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A seal assembly system for a bulk bag, comprising:

a pouch storing a material, the pouch comprising an opening;

the pouch comprises an inner layer and an outer layer, wherein the inner layer is a foil laminate and the outer layer is a woven tape structure made of polypropylene;

a collar having a top end and a bottom end opposite thereto, an inner wall defining a through passage extending between the top and bottom ends;

the collar has:

a lip on the tip;

a connecting plate located on the bottom end; and is also provided with

The web of the collar is integral to the inner and outer layers at the opening; and

a cap having a top side and configured for releasable attachment to a lip of the collar to provide an airtight seal at the opening, wherein the cap comprises a sampling port molded into and flush with the top side of the cap, a central axis of the sampling port being offset from a central axis of the cap, and a removable cap configured to:

sealing the sampling port when attached thereto, and

Providing access to the material when removed from the sampling port, while the cap remains attached to the lip of the collar,

wherein the sampling port is a plug port and the removable cap is a plug comprising a ring attached to a top surface of the plug.

2. The seal assembly system of claim 1, wherein the cover further comprises a seal adhered to the top side of the cover and to the removable cap.

3. The seal assembly system of claim 2, wherein the seal is adhered to the top of the ring.

4. The seal assembly system of claim 1, wherein the sampling port is circular and/or has a diameter of 70 mm.

5. The seal assembly system of claim 1, wherein the plug is sized such that the plug is retained within the sampling port with a friction fit or a snap fit.

6. The seal assembly system of claim 1, wherein the removable cap is recessed below a top side of the cap when attached to the sampling port.

7. The seal assembly system of claim 1, a portion of the web being integrated between one or more layers of the bag.

8. The seal assembly system of claim 1, a portion of the web being integral to an inner layer of the bag.

9. The seal assembly system of claim 1, a portion of the web being coupled to the outer layer and the outer layer being coupled to the inner layer.

10. The seal assembly system of claim 1, a portion of the web being coupled to an inner layer of the bag.

11. The seal assembly system of claim 1, further comprising a heat weld securing a portion of the collar to a portion of the bag.

12. A pouch configured to hold a volume of material, the pouch comprising:

an opening on the top side of the pouch;

an inner layer configured to provide an airtight enclosure for the material, wherein the airtight enclosure is accessible via the opening;

an outer layer positioned about the inner layer, wherein the outer layer provides structural support and integrity in a braid;

the opening includes a neck formed by at least one of the inner layer or the outer layer;

a collar having a top end and a bottom end opposite thereto, an inner wall defining a through passage extending between the top and bottom ends, an outer wall opposite the inner wall, and having a thickness and a diameter for the through passage;

The collar is positioned on the neck and at least one of the inner layer or the outer layer is folded over a lip of the collar, wherein at least one of the inner layer or the outer layer is folded over an outer wall of the collar; and

a cap having a top side and releasably coupled to the collar, the cap applying a force to press the cap, the outer layer, the inner layer, and a lip of the collar together when attached to the collar, wherein the cap comprises a sampling port molded into and flush with the top side of the cap, and a removable cap configured to be offset from a central axis of the cap:

sealing the sampling port when attached thereto, and

providing access to the material when removed from the sampling port, while the cap remains coupled to the collar,

13. The bag of claim 12, wherein the lid further comprises a seal adhered to the top side of the lid and to the removable cap.

14. The bag of claim 13, wherein the seal is adhered to the top of the ring.

15. The bag of claim 12, wherein the sampling port is circular and/or has a diameter of 70 mm.

16. The bag of claim 12, wherein the plug is sized such that the plug is retained within the sampling port with a friction fit or a snap fit.

17. The bag of claim 12, wherein the top side of the cap has a first diameter and the sampling port has a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter.

18. The bag of claim 12, further comprising a compression member that compresses one of the inner layer or the outer layer against an outer wall of the collar so as to maintain connectivity when the cover is separated from the collar.

19. The bag of claim 12, wherein when the cap is coupled to the lip of the collar, the lip of the collar is in contact with the exterior of the outer layer and the bottom portion of the cap is in contact with the interior of the inner layer.

20. A seal assembly system for a bulk bag, comprising:

a pouch storing a material, the pouch having a first end and a second end opposite thereto, the pouch including an opening at the first end;

the collar further includes an outer wall;

the collar has:

a lip on the tip;

a web perpendicular to and outwardly from the outer wall; and

a support rib located between the lip and the web;

the collar is attached around a portion of the bag such that the outer layer is in contact with the inner wall and the outer wall;

a compression member configured to be positioned around the collar so as to compress the outer layer and the inner layer toward an outer wall of the collar; and

a cap having a top side with a first diameter, the cap configured for releasable attachment to a lip of the collar to provide an airtight seal at the opening, wherein the lip is in contact with the outer layer, the cap is in contact with the inner layer, and the cap is coupled to the lip with the outer layer and the inner layer therebetween, the cap comprising a sampling port and a removable cap, the sampling port having a second diameter less than the first diameter, the sampling port being molded into and flush with the top side of the cap, a central axis of the sampling port being offset from a central axis of the cap, the removable cap configured to:

Sealing the sampling port when attached thereto, and