JP2016534949A - A container having a product volume and a stand-off structure connected thereto - Google Patents

Abstract

Various containers are presented having a product volume and one or more standoff structures coupled to the product volume. The standoff structure is configured to protect the product volume. The standoff structure is, for example, an indication placed in the product volume or information that occurs when the container is dropped, dropped, brought into contact with another object, or placed in a containment structure, etc. May prevent damage to the product volume (eg, dents, rupture, wear, etc.).

Description

  The present disclosure is generally utilized with containers, more specifically, auxiliary structures utilized with containers made from flexible materials, as well as containers made from rigid or semi-rigid materials. It relates to an auxiliary structure.

  Flowable products include liquid products and / or pourable solid products. In various embodiments, the container can be used to receive, contain, and dispense one or more flowable products. And in various embodiments, the container can be used to receive, contain and / or dispense separately packaged portions of individual articles or products. The container can comprise one or more product volumes. The product volume may be configured to be filled with one or more flowable products. The container receives a flowable product when the product volume of the container is filled. Once filled to the desired volume, the container can be configured to contain the flowable product within its product volume until the flowable product is dispensed. The container contains the flowable product by providing a partition around the flowable product. The septum prevents the flowable product from flowing out of the product volume. The septum can also protect the flowable product from the external environment of the container. The filled product volume is typically closed by a cap or seal. The container may be configured to dispense one or more flowable products contained in the product volume of the container. Once dispensed, the end user can consume, apply or use the liquid product as appropriate. In various embodiments, the container may be configured to be refilled and reused, or the container may be configured to be disposed of after a single fill or even a single use. The container must be constructed with sufficient structural integrity so that the flowable product can be received, received, and dispensed as intended without disruption.

  Containers for flowable products can be handled, displayed for sale, and put into use. Containers can be handled in many different ways as they are made, filled, decorated, packaged, transported, and opened. Containers may experience a wide range of external forces and environmental conditions when handled by machinery and people, moved by equipment and vehicles, and in contact with other containers and various packaging materials. These external forces can be, for example, constant forces, fluctuating forces, impact forces, or other forces. For example, the external force can include a force applied after gravity (eg, applied by a person or object) and / or a frictional force. Containers for flowable products are not subject to these methods without disruption, damage to the container, damage to the contents of the container, and / or damage to the decoration of the container if decorated. It should be constructed with sufficient structural integrity so that it can be handled either or in any other way known in the art.

  Containers can also be displayed for sale in many different ways as they are offered for purchase. Containers may be offered for sale as individual commodities or may be packaged with one or more other containers or products that together form the commodities. The container may be offered for sale as a primary package with or without a secondary package. The container can be decorated to display symbols, graphics, branding, and / or other visual elements when the container is displayed for sale. Containers are displayed for sale by lying or standing on store shelves, presented on merchandising displays, hung on display hangers, or loaded into display racks or vending machines Can be configured as follows. The container for the flowable product is constructed in a structure that allows the container to be displayed in any of these ways or in any other way known in the art, without disruption, as intended. It must be.

  The container can also be put into use in many different ways by the end user of the container. The container may be configured to be held and / or grasped by the end user, so the container must be appropriately sized and shaped to fit the human hand, and for this purpose, the container Can include useful structural characteristics such as, for example, a handle (eg, a handle integrally formed with the product volume, and / or a handle coupled to the product volume) and / or a gripping surface. The container can be laid down or upright on a support surface, suspended on or off a protrusion such as a hook or clip, or supported by a product holder, or (a refillable or reloadable container Can be located and stored in a refill or reload location. The container can be configured to dispense the flowable product at any of these storage locations or held by the user. The container dispenses the flowable product by using gravity and / or pressure and / or dispensing mechanisms such as pumps or straws, or by using other types of dispensers known in the art. Can be configured as follows. Some containers may be configured to be filled and / or refilled by a seller (eg, a seller or retailer) or an end user. Containers for flowable products are constructed in a structure that allows the containers to be used in any of these ways or in any other way known in the art, without disruption, as intended. It must be. The container can also be configured to be disposed of by the end user in various ways as a disposable and / or recyclable material.

  One conventional type of container for flowable products is a rigid container made from a solid material. Examples of conventional rigid containers include molded plastic bottles, glass bottles, metal cans, cardboard boxes and the like. Although these conventional rigid containers are well known and generally useful, their design presents several notable problems.

  First, some conventional rigid containers for flowable products can be expensive to make. Some rigid containers are made by a process that molds one or more solid materials. Other rigid containers are made by a phase change process in which the container material is heated (to soften / melt), subsequently molded and cooled (to harden / solidify). . Both types of fabrication are energy intensive processes, and these processes may require complex equipment.

  Second, some conventional rigid containers for flowable products may require a significant amount of material. Rigid containers that are designed to stand on a support surface require a solid wall that is thick enough to support the container when it is filled. This may require a significant amount of material, and as a result, increases the cost of the container and may cause difficulty in disposal of the container.

  Third, some conventional rigid containers for flowable products can be difficult to decorate. Some rigid container sizes, shapes (eg, curved surfaces) and / or materials make it difficult to print directly on the outer surface of the container. Labeling requires additional materials and processing and limits the size and shape of the decoration. Overwrapping provides a larger decorative area, but requires additional materials and processing as well, often at considerable expense.

  Fourth, some conventional rigid containers for flowable products may be susceptible to certain types of damage. If the rigid container is pressed against the rough surface, the container may be worn away, resulting in smearing of the print on the container. If the rigid container is pressed against a hard object, the container may dent and may be unsightly as a result. If the rigid container falls, the container may be damaged, and as a result, the fluid product of the container may be lost.

  Fifth, some flowable products of conventional rigid containers can be difficult to dispense. When the end user crushes the rigid container to dispense the flowable product in the container, the end user must overcome the resistance of the rigid side to deform the container. Some users may lack the ability to easily overcome that resistance, and these users may dispense less than the desired amount of flowable product. Other users may not be able to easily control the degree to which the container is deformed, so it may be necessary to apply a very large hand force, and these users will have the desired amount of flow. There is a risk of distributing more than sex products.

  The present disclosure describes various embodiments of containers made from flexible materials. Because these containers are made from flexible materials, when compared to conventional rigid containers, these containers can be made inexpensively, can reduce material, and are easier to decorate. possible. First, the conversion of flexible material (from sheet form to finished product) generally requires less energy and complexity than the formation of rigid material (from bulk form to finished product), so these containers Can be produced at a lower cost. Second, these containers are made up of novel support structures that do not require the use of thick solid walls used in conventional rigid containers, thus reducing material. Third, the flexible container is made from a flexible material, and the flexible material can be printed and / or decorated as a conformable web before being formed into the container, so The flexible container may be easier to print and / or decorate. Although the container of the present disclosure is made from a flexible material, the container is structurally integrated enough to receive, contain and dispense the flowable product as desired without disruption. It can be configured with sex. Also, these containers can withstand external forces and environmental conditions due to handling without being damaged, damaged containers, damaged container contents, and / or damaged decorative containers. As such, it may be configured with sufficient structural integrity. Furthermore, these containers can be distributed, displayed as intended, and without destruction, damage to the containers, damage to the contents of the containers, and / or damage to the decoration of the containers when decorated, and It can be configured with a structure that allows it to be used.

  In particular, the present disclosure describes various embodiments of a container having a product volume and one or more standoff structures coupled to the product volume. The product volume may be a free standing product volume in some embodiments. The standoff structure is configured to protect at least the outer surface of the product volume. The standoff structure may help, for example, protect or cushion the product volume and / or its contents. The stand-off structure is another example, for example, when the container is dropped, dropped, brought into contact with another object, or otherwise contacted, or placed in a closed structure. , Product volume, product volume contents, and / or damage to indicia or information located on the product volume (eg, dents, ruptures, obfuscations, and abrasions) may be prevented.

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of one embodiment of a stand up flexible container. 1B illustrates a side view of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1B illustrates a top view of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1B illustrates a bottom view of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 1A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. 1B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 1A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 1A including an external structural support frame. FIG. FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of a stand up flexible container having a structural support frame having a frustum-like overall shape. 2B illustrates a front view of the container of FIG. 2A. 2B illustrates a side view of the container of FIG. 2A. 2B illustrates an isometric view of the container of FIG. 2A. FIG. 2C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 2A including an asymmetric structural support frame. 1B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 1A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 2A including an external structural support frame. FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of a stand up flexible container having a structural support frame having a pyramidal overall shape. 3B illustrates a front view of the container of FIG. 3A. 3B illustrates a side view of the container of FIG. 3A. 3B illustrates an isometric view of the container of FIG. 3A. 3B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 3A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 3A including an internal structural support frame. FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 3A including an external structural support frame. FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of a stand up flexible container having a structural support frame having a triangular prismatic overall shape. FIG. 4B illustrates a front view of the container of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4B illustrates a side view of the container of FIG. 4A. 4B illustrates an isometric view of the container of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 4A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 4A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 4A including an external structural support frame. FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of a stand up flexible container having a structural support frame having a square columnar overall shape. FIG. 5B illustrates a front view of the container of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5B illustrates a side view of the container of FIG. 5A. 5B illustrates an isometric view of the container of FIG. 5A. 5B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 5A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 5A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 5A including an external structural support frame. FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of a stand up flexible container having a structural support frame having a pentagonal columnar overall shape. FIG. 6B illustrates a front view of the container of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6B illustrates a side view of the container of FIG. 6A. 6B illustrates an isometric view of the container of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6D illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 6A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 6A including an internal structural support frame. FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 6A including an external structural support frame. FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of a stand up flexible container having a structural support frame having a conical overall shape. 7B illustrates a front view of the container of FIG. 7A. 7B illustrates a side view of the container of FIG. 7A. 7B illustrates an isometric view of the container of FIG. 7A. 7B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 7A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 7A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 7A including an external structural support frame. FIG. FIG. 6 illustrates a top view of a stand up flexible container having a structural support frame having a cylindrical overall shape. 8B illustrates a front view of the container of FIG. 8A. 8B illustrates a side view of the container of FIG. 8A. 8B illustrates an isometric view of the container of FIG. 8A. FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 8A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 8A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the stand up flexible container of FIG. 8A including an external structural support frame. FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a free standing flexible container having a square overall shape. 9B illustrates an end view of the flexible container of FIG. 9A. 9B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the free standing flexible container of FIG. 9A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. FIG. 9B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the free standing flexible container of FIG. 9A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 9B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the free standing flexible container of FIG. 9A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a self-supporting flexible container having a triangular overall shape. FIG. 10A illustrates an end view of the flexible container of FIG. 10A. FIG. 10C illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the free standing flexible container of FIG. 10A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. 10B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the free standing flexible container of FIG. 10A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 10B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the free standing flexible container of FIG. 10A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of one embodiment of a free standing flexible container having a circular overall shape. FIG. 11B illustrates an end view of the flexible container of FIG. 11A. FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the free standing flexible container of FIG. 11A including an asymmetric structural support frame. FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the free standing flexible container of FIG. 11A including an internal structure support frame. FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of the free standing flexible container of FIG. 11A including an internal structure support frame. Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view of a push-pull dispenser. Fig. 3 illustrates an isometric view of a dispenser with a push-up cap. Fig. 3 illustrates an isometric view of a dispenser with a screw cap. Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view of a rotatable dispenser. Fig. 3 illustrates an isometric view of a nozzle-type dispenser with a cap. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a straw dispenser. Fig. 3 illustrates an isometric view of a straw dispenser with a lid. Fig. 3 illustrates an isometric view of a flip-up straw dispenser. Figure 3 illustrates an isometric view of a straw dispenser with an occlusal valve. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a pump-type dispenser. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a pump spray type dispenser. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a trigger spray dispenser. FIG. 4 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of a flexible container having a free standing product volume and a standoff structure coupled thereto. FIG. 6 shows an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a free-standing product volume and a standoff structure coupled thereto. FIG. 4 shows an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a free-standing product volume and a plurality of standoff structures coupled thereto. FIG. 6 shows a top view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a free-standing product volume and a plurality of standoff structures coupled thereto, where the product volume is generally a pyramid, such as a trigonal prism. It has the shape of FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a cylindrical free-standing product volume and a plurality of standoff structures coupled thereto. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a cubic free-standing product volume and a plurality of standoff structures coupled thereto. FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a triangular free-standing product volume and a plurality of standoff structures coupled thereto. FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a free-standing product volume and a standoff structure coupled thereto. FIG. 6 shows an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a free standing product pressurized product volume and a plurality of standoff structures coupled thereto. FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a flexible container having a free-standing product volume and an indicia printed thereon, the indicia providing an appearance with a plurality of standoff structures coupled to the product volume It is configured. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a method or process for preventing container damage. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 shows various embodiments of product containers. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 shows various embodiments of product containers. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 shows various embodiments of product containers. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 illustrates various embodiments of a product container. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 illustrates various embodiments of a product container. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 shows various embodiments of product containers. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 shows various embodiments of product containers. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 illustrates various embodiments of a product container. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 illustrates various embodiments of a product container. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 illustrates various embodiments of a product container. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 shows various embodiments of product containers. A first volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect with or nest with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure; Fig. 3 shows various embodiments of product containers. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various implementations of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures coupled to and nested with a product volume and a corresponding second product container standoff structure The form is shown. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. Various embodiments of a first product container having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a corresponding standoff structure of a second product container. Indicates. A separate product volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a standoff structure of another product container connected thereto and arranged in different orientations; The embodiment of is shown. A separate product volume having a plurality of standoff structures configured to interconnect or nest with a product volume and a standoff structure of another product container connected thereto and arranged in different orientations; The embodiment of is shown. FIG. 6 shows an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a free-standing product volume and a standoff structure coupled thereto. FIG. 6 shows an isometric view of another embodiment of a flexible container having a free-standing product volume and a standoff structure coupled thereto. FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of at least one standoff structure coupled to the top of the container, where the center and bottom of the container do not include a standoff structure. FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of at least one standoff structure coupled to the top of the container, where the center and bottom of the container do not include a standoff structure. Fig. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a different standoff structure configuration with the container closed.

  The present disclosure describes various embodiments of containers made from flexible materials, as well as containers made from rigid or semi-rigid materials. Containers made from flexible materials may be less expensive to manufacture, may use less material and may be easier to decorate compared to traditional rigid containers, but are flexible Auxiliary container structures of the present disclosure that are beneficial for use with containers made from sexual materials may also be beneficial for use with containers made from rigid or semi-rigid materials. For containers made from flexible containers, first the transformation of flexible material (from sheet form to finished product) requires more energy and complexity than the formation of rigid material (from bulk form to finished product). These containers can be made cheaper because they are generally less flexible. Second, these containers are made up of novel support structures that do not require the use of thick solid walls used in conventional rigid containers, thus reducing material. Third, these flexible containers can be easier to decorate because the flexible material of the containers can be easily printed before being formed into the containers. Fourth, the flexible material causes the outer surface of the container to deform and subsequently return when it comes into contact with the surface and objects, so that these flexible containers are less likely to wear out, dent and rupture. Can be. Fifth, since the sides of the flexible containers can be crushed more easily and controllable by human hands, the flowable products in these flexible containers are more reliably and closely distributed. obtain. Alternatively, as described herein, any embodiment of a flexible container is configured to dispense a flowable product by pouring the flowable product out of its product volume. obtain.

  Although some of the containers of the present disclosure are made from a flexible material, the containers may, as intended, be destroyed when the container is damaged, and / or the contents of the container are damaged, and / or when the container is decorated. It can be configured to have sufficient structural integrity so that it can receive, contain and dispense a flowable product without damaging the decoration. Also, these containers can be constructed with sufficient structural integrity so that they can withstand external forces and environmental conditions from handling without breaking. In addition, these containers may be sold for sale without any destruction, damage to the containers, and / or damage to the contents of the containers, and / or damage to the decoration of the containers upon decoration. It can be configured with a structure that allows it to be displayed and used.

  As used herein, the term “about” modifies a particular value by referring to a range equal to the particular value plus or minus 20 percent (+/− 20%). For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, any disclosure of a particular value is also in a range approximately equal to the disclosure of that particular value in various alternative embodiments (ie, + / -20%) disclosure.

  As used herein, the term “ambient conditions” refers to temperatures in the range of 15 to 35 degrees Celsius and relative humidity in the range of 35 to 75%.

  As used herein, the term “about / approximately” modifies a particular value by referring to a range equal to the particular value plus or minus 15 percent (+/− 15%). For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, any disclosure of a particular value may also be in a range equivalent to that particular value (ie +/-) in various alternative embodiments. 15%) disclosure.

  As used herein, the term “basis weight” when referring to a sheet of material refers to a measurement of mass per area in units of grams per square meter (gsm). For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, any of the flexible materials is 10 to 1000 gsm, or any integer value of 10 to 1000 gsm. Or in any range formed by any of these values, such as, for example, 20-800 gsm, 30-600 gsm, 40-400 gsm, or 50-200.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “bottom” refers to the portion of the container that is located 30% of the lower side of the total height of the container, ie, 0-30% of the total height of the container. As used herein, the term bottom can be further limited by modifying the term bottom with a specific percentage value of less than 30%. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, the base of the container bottom is, in various alternative embodiments, 25% bottom (ie 0-25% of the total height), bottom 20 % (Ie 0-20% of the total height), bottom 15% (ie 0-15% of the total height), bottom 10% (ie 0-10% of the total height), or bottom 5% (ie 0-5% of the total height) Or any integer value of a ratio between 0% and 30%. In some embodiments, the bottom is one or more legs, cups, gussets coupled to the container (eg, integral with it, formed separately and later at least partially joined thereto) , Pouches, pedestals, legs, bases, stand-off structures, seams, and / or other extensions may be included. The one or more auxiliary structures may be made from a rigid material or may be made from one or more flexible materials.

  As used herein, the term “bottom surface” refers to the portion of the bottom of a container that is configured to at least partially contact a horizontal support surface. For example, the container may be at least partially in contact with the support surface as it stands upright on the support surface. In some embodiments, the bottom surface may include a support surface contact portion and a portion that faces the horizontal support surface but does not contact it. In other embodiments, substantially the entire bottom surface can be in contact with the horizontal support surface. In embodiments in which the bottom includes one or more extensions, the bottom surface refers to the portion of the one or more auxiliary structures that are at least partially in contact with the horizontal support surface.

  As used herein, the term “branding” refers to a visual element intended to distinguish one product from another. Examples of branding include any one or more of a trademark, a trade dress, a logo, an icon, and the like. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, any aspect of the flexible container is disclosed herein or in the art. One or more brandings of any known size, shape or configuration can be included in any combination.

  As used herein, the term “symbol” refers to a visual element intended to convey information. Examples of symbols include any one or more of letters, numbers, symbols, and the like. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, any aspect of the flexible container is also disclosed herein or in the art. One or more symbols of any size, shape or configuration known in can be included in any combination.

  As used herein, the term “closed” prevents the flowable product in the product volume from flowing out of the product volume (eg, by one or more materials forming the septum and by the cap). Although it refers to the state of the product volume, the product volume need not be hermetically sealed. For example, a closed container can include vents that fluidly communicate the container headspace with ambient air outside the container.

  As used herein, the term “coupled” refers to “indirect” connections between elements or “direct” connections between elements.

  As used herein, the term “decoration area” refers to a container that includes “indicia” such as one or more letters, graphics, brands, surface elements, or any combination of other visual elements. A part of the surface. The decorative region may be located on the surface of the product volume, the surface of one or more standoff structures, or a combination thereof. The decorative area may be visible through a portion of the surface of the container and may be located on the surface of the product volume. The indicia may be located on the outer or outer surface of the product volume and / or the flexible material of the standoff structure, and may be embedded or sandwiched within the flexible material. / Or may be on the inner or inner surface of the flexible material of the standoff structure, or may be located on another surface or flexible material (the decorative region may be on another surface or flexible Positioned between the material and an observer located outside the decorative area).

  The decorative area may consist of a decorative area viewing portion that has a visual characteristic that is translucent to substantially or completely transparent, which provides a visual path from the outside of the container to at least a portion of the product volume. Products located within the product volume may be visible to the user or observer through the path. The decorative region and the decorative region viewing portion may include looking at the indicia while viewing the product volume, or a portion of the product located within the product volume. The container may have a plurality of decorative regions or decorative region viewing portions.

  As used herein, the term “directly connected” refers to a configuration in which the elements are attached to each other without any intermediate elements other than any attachment means (eg, adhesive). The elements may be integrally attached to each other, or may be integrally formed, or may be formed separately and then at least partially attached to each other (e.g., several attached to each other at one point) Point-attached, fully attached).

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “dispenser” refers to a structure configured to dispense a flowable product from a product volume to an environment outside the container. For any of the flexible containers disclosed herein, any dispenser can be configured in any manner disclosed herein or known in the art. For example, the dispenser is a push-pull dispenser, a dispenser with a push-up cap, a dispenser with a screw cap, a rotatable dispenser, a dispenser with a cap, a pump dispenser, a pump spray dispenser, a trigger spray dispenser It can be a dispenser, a straw dispenser, a flip-up straw dispenser, a straw dispenser with an occlusal valve, a dose dispenser, and the like. As another example, the dispenser can be formed by a fragile opening. By way of further example, a dispenser is disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0096068, entitled “One-way valve for inflatable package”, each incorporated herein by reference, in the United States, named “Self-sealing container”. One or more valves disclosed in the art, such as those disclosed in US Pat. No. 4,988,016, and US Pat. No. 7,207,717, entitled “Package having a fluid actuated closure”. Alternatively, a dispensing mechanism can be utilized. Still further, any of the dispensers disclosed herein can be directly or in combination with one or more other materials or structures (eg, fittings) or in any manner known in the art. , May be incorporated into a flexible container. In some alternative embodiments, the dispensers disclosed herein can be configured for both dispensing and filling, allowing filling of the product volume by one or more dispensers. In other alternative embodiments, the product volume may include one or a filling structure in addition to one or more dispensers.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “disposable” is not configured to be refilled with an additional amount of product after the product has been dispensed to the end user (eg, waste, compost). (And / or as reusable material) refers to a container configured to be disposed of. Some, each, or all of any of the embodiments of the flexible container disclosed herein can be configured to be disposable.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “durable” refers to a container that is more reusable than a non-durable container.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “effective basal contact area” refers to a support surface in which the container is upright (the entire product volume is 100% filled with water) and the bottom of the container is horizontal. When standing on top, it refers to a specific area defined by a portion of the bottom of the container. The effective basal contact area is in the plane defined by the horizontal support surface. An effective basal contact area is a continuous area surrounded on all sides by the outer periphery.

  The perimeter is formed from the actual contact area and from a series of projected areas of defined cross-section taken at the bottom of the container. When an effective basal contact area is defined, the actual contact area is one or more portions of the bottom of the container that contact the horizontal support surface. Effective basal contact areas include all of the actual contact areas. However, in some embodiments, the effective basal contact area can extend beyond the actual contact area.

  A series of projection areas are formed from five horizontal cross sections taken at the bottom of the flexible container. These cross sections are taken at 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% and 5% of the total height. The outer extent of each of these cross-sections is projected onto a horizontal support surface in a vertically downward direction to form five (overlapping) projection areas, the projection areas together with the actual contact areas being a single Form a combined region. This is not to sum the values of these regions, but to form a single combined region that includes all of these (projected and actual) regions that overlap each other, and any overlapping parts Make a single contribution to a single combined region.

  The outer periphery of the effective base contact region is formed as follows. In the following description, the terms convex, protruding, concave and concave are understood in terms of points from outside the combined area. The outer periphery is formed by a combination of a range outside the combined region and an arbitrary chord that is a straight line segment configured as described below.

  For each continuous portion of the combined region having a perimeter that has a concave or concave shape, a string is configured across that portion. This chord is the shortest straight line segment that can be a tangent line drawn to the combined area on both sides of the concave / recessed portion.

  For non-contiguous combined regions (formed by two or more separate parts), one or more strings are one or more discontinuities (open spaces arranged between the parts) Across the perimeter of the combined area. These strings are straight line segments drawn as tangents to the outermost separate parts of the combined area. These strings are drawn to create the largest possible base contact area.

  Therefore, the outer periphery is formed by a combination of the outer range of the combined region and the arbitrary chord configured as described above, and these combinations collectively surround the effective base region. Any string and / or one or more other strings surrounded by the combined area must be ignored, not part of the perimeter.

Any of the embodiments of container disclosed herein is formed by any optional cm ^2, or above the value of the integer value between 1～50,000Cm ^2, or 1～50,000Cm ² within any range that is, for ^{example, 2~25,000cm 2, 3~10,000cm 2, 4~5,000cm} 2, 5~2,500cm 2, 10~1,000cm 2, 20~500cm 2, 30 It can be configured to have an effective basal contact area, such as ˜300 cm ² , 40-200 cm ² , or 50-100 cm ² .

  As used herein, when referring to a flexible container, the term “expanded” refers to a structure after a structural support volume or standoff structure has been made rigid or more rigid by one or more expanding materials. Refers to the state of one or more flexible materials configured to be formed into a static support volume or standoff structure. Before the structural support volume is filled with one or more inflatable materials, the inflated structural support volume / standoff structure has an overall width that is significantly greater than the combined thickness of the one or more flexible materials. Have. Examples of intumescent materials include liquids (eg, water), gases (eg, compressed air, nitrogen, or carbon dioxide), flowable products, foams (which can be inflated after being added to a structural support volume) A co-reactive material (which produces a gas), or a phase change material (which can be added in solid or liquid form, but then turns into a gas, eg, liquid nitrogen, dry ice, or any other A suitable cryogenic fluid or solid (eg, solid “dry ice” carbon dioxide, liquid helium, liquid argon, and combinations thereof), preferably the temperature of the previous cryogenic material is greater than 50 ° C., 75 ° C., or 100 ° C. Having a boiling point or sublimation point at 1 atmospheric pressure), or any other suitable material known in the art, or any combination thereof Align (e.g., flowability product, and liquid nitrogen) and the like. In various embodiments, the intumescent material can be added at atmospheric pressure, added at a pressure higher than atmospheric pressure, or added to make a material change that increases the pressure to above atmospheric pressure. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, for example, before or after the product volume of the container is filled with a flowable product, the flexible container is shipped to the seller. One or more flexible materials in a container at various times related to the manufacture, sale, and use of the container, including before or after the container and before or after the flexible container is purchased by the end user Can be made.

  As used herein, when referring to the product volume of a container, the term “filled” means an amount of product volume that has headspace clearance under ambient conditions and is equal to the maximum capacity of the product volume. The condition when the product volume is accommodated. As used herein, the term filled can be modified by using the term filled with specific percentage values, where 100% filled represents the maximum capacity of the product volume. .

  As used herein, the term “flat” refers to a surface without significant protrusions or depressions.

  As used herein, the term “flexible container” refers to a container configured to have one or more product volumes, wherein the one or more flexible materials are one or more product volumes. Forming at least a portion of the total surface area of the one or more materials that define a three-dimensional space. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, the flexible container can be configured to have one or more product volumes. The flexible material forms a specific percentage of the total area of one or more materials that define a three-dimensional space, which is a percentage of any integer value between 0% and 100% Or any range formed by any of these values (e.g., 10-100%, 20-100%, 30-100%, 40-100%, 50-100%, 60-100% Or 70 to 100%, or 80 to 100%, or 90 to 100%, etc.). One type of flexible container is a film-type container, which is a flexible container made from one or more flexible materials including a film.

  In some embodiments, the container is made at least partially from a flexible material and connected to a product volume made from a rigid material such as injection molded plastic or a semi-rigid material such as thin wall blow molded plastic. It may also include one or more standoff structures. In other embodiments, the flexible container is made of at least partly a flexible material and is connected to a product volume made at least partly of a flexible material. It may contain things. In further embodiments, the container may include one or more standoff structures made from an inflexible material and coupled to a product volume made at least partially from a flexible material. .

  For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, the central portion of the flexible container (excluding any flowable or non-flowable product portion) is the total mass of the central portion. The one or more flexible materials form a specific percentage of the total mass of the central portion, and the specific percentage is any integer value of a percentage between 0% and 100% 10-100%, 20-100%, 30-100%, 40-100%, 50-100%, 60-100%, or 70-100%, or 80-100%, or 90-100%, etc. Within any range formed by any of the above values.

  With respect to any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, the entire flexible container (except for any flowable product) is configured to have a total mass. One or more flexible materials form a specific percentage of the total mass, the specific percentage being any integer value between 0% and 100%, or 10-100%, 20-20 Formed by any of the above values such as 100%, 30-100%, 40-100%, 50-100%, 60-100%, or 70-100%, or 80-100%, or 90-100% Is in any range.

  As used herein, when referring to a flexible container, the term “flexible material” is thin and easily deformed with a deflection rate in the range of 1,000 to 2,500,000 N / m. It refers to a possible sheet-like material. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, any of the flexible materials have a deflection rate of 1,000 to 2,500,000 N / m, or Deflection rate of any integer value from 1,000 to 2,500,000 N / m, or any range formed by any of these values (eg, 1,000 to 1,500,000 N / m, 1 500-1,000,000 N / m, 2,500-800,000 N / m, 5,000-700,000 N / m, 10,000-600,000 N / m, 15,000-500,000 N / m 20,000-400,000 N / m, 25,000-300,000 N / m, 30,000-200,000 N / m, 35,000-100,000 N / m, 40,000-90 000n / m, or may be configured to have a 45,000~85,000N / m, etc.) deflection rate within. Throughout this disclosure, the terms “flexible material”, “flexible sheet”, “sheet”, and “sheet-like material” are used interchangeably and are intended to have the same meaning. Examples of materials that can be flexible materials include microlayer, bilayer or nanolayer structures as separate materials, for example, a single layer, or a single layer, or as a layer of a laminate, or as part of a composite material A film (such as a plastic film), a hollow or foam film, an elastomer, in any configuration and in any combination as described herein or known in the art , Foam sheets, foils, fabrics (including woven and non-woven fabrics), biogenic materials, and paper. In various embodiments, a portion, part, or all of the flexible material is coated or uncoated, processed or unprocessed, processed or processed in any manner known in the art. It may not be done. In various embodiments, some, parts, or all of the flexible material can be made from a sustainable, bioresource, reusable, renewable, and / or biodegradable material. Some, each, or all of any of the flexible materials described herein may be partially or completely translucent, partially or completely transparent, or partially or completely Can be opaque. The flexible material used to make the containers disclosed herein can be formed by any technique known in the art, such as heat sealing (eg, conductive sealing, impulse sealing, Bonded together using any type of bonding or sealing method known in the art, including ultrasonic sealing, etc.), welding, crimping, bonding, bonding, etc., and any combination thereof. obtain.

  As used herein, when referring to a flexible container, the term “deflection” refers to material parameters for a thin, easily deformable sheet-like material. This parameter is measured in Newtons per meter and the deflection rate is equal to the product of the value of the Young's modulus of the material (measured in Pascals) and the value of the total thickness of the material (measured in meters).

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “flowable product” refers to one or more liquids and / or pourable solids and combinations thereof. Examples of flowable products include small pieces, strips, creams, chips, lumps, crystals, emulsions, grains, flakes, gels, grains, granules, jelly, kibbles, either individually or in any combination One or more of any of liquids, liquid solutions, liquid suspensions, lotions, nuggets, ointments, particles, fine particles, pastes, debris, pills, powders, salves, fragments, sprinkles and the like are included. Throughout this disclosure, the terms “flowable product” and “flowable product” are used interchangeably and are intended to have the same meaning. Any of the product volumes disclosed herein are configured to include any combination of any one or more of the flowable products disclosed herein or known in the art. obtain.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “formed” refers to a defined three-dimensional space of one or more materials configured to be formed in a product volume. The state after being provided.

  As used herein, the term “gap” refers to the space between the standoff structure or the space between the standoff structure and the product volume connected thereto.

  As used herein, the term “graphic” refers to a visual element intended to provide decoration or convey information. Examples of graphics include one or more of any of colors, patterns, designs, images, and the like. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, any aspect of the flexible container is also disclosed herein or in the art. One or more graphics of any size, shape or configuration known in can be included in any combination.

As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “height area ratio” refers to a ratio for containers having units of per centimeter (cm ⁻¹ ), which ratio is The total height value of the container (all product volume is 100% filled with water and the total height is measured in centimeters), the effective base contact area value of the container (all product volume is 100% filled with water) The effective basal contact area, measured in square centimeters, is equal to. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, any of the flexible materials is between 0.3 and 3.0 per centimeter, or zero. Any value in increments of 0.05 cm ⁻¹ between 3 and 3.0 per centimeter, or 0.35 to 2.0 cm ⁻¹ , 0.4 to 1.5 cm ⁻¹ , 0.4 to ¹ . 2 cm ^-1, or the like 0.45～0.9Cm ^-1, within any range formed by any of the above values may be configured to have a height region ratio.

  As used herein, the term “horizontal support surface” refers to any surface that has a horizontal component and is configured to support a container thereon. The horizontal support surface may be a shelf (eg, a grocery store), a ledge (eg, a shower ledge), a ground or floor surface, a base (eg, a rigid base), a surface of a cart or other transportation means, or any other Can be a support surface. In some embodiments, the support surface has a generally horizontal orientation (ie, is flat). In other embodiments, the support includes a number of depressions, ridges, roller or other bearing surfaces, protrusions (eg, regular or irregularly shaped protrusions), and / or pattern spacing. In some cases, and as used herein, the term “horizontal” may include a slope of an angle of 45 ° or less (in order to improve inventory turnover, the inventory flows to the forefront. (It is recognized that the shelves for sale can be tilted to facilitate).

  As used herein, the term “indicator” refers to one or more of any combination of symbols, graphics, branding, surface elements (eg, three-dimensional surface elements) or other visual elements. For example, a sign may refer to product information such as ingredients, safety information, nutrition information, ingredients, and the like. For any of the container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, any aspect of the flexible container is also disclosed herein or known in the art. One or more indicia of any size, shape or configuration can be included in any combination. The product volume and / or the standoff structure may include indicia. The indicia may be associated with either the product volume and / or the surface facing the outside or inside of the standoff structure.

  As used herein, the term “indirectly connected” refers to a configuration in which elements are attached to each other by one or more intermediate elements therebetween.

  As used herein, the term “integrally formed” refers to a configuration in which elements are continuously formed of a common material (s).

  As used herein, the term “joined” refers to a configuration in which elements are formed separately (ie, not continuous) and then directly connected or indirectly connected. Elements that are “joined” are not “integrally formed”.

  As used herein, the term “lateral” is parallel to the lateral centerline of the container when the container is upright on a horizontal support surface, as described herein. Refers to any direction, orientation, or measurement. The lateral orientation may also be referred to as a “horizontal” orientation and the lateral measurement may also be referred to as “width”.

  As used herein, the term “similarly numbered” refers to similar alphanumeric labels for corresponding elements, such as: Elements with similar numbers have the same last two-digit label, for example, one element with a label ending with digit 20 and another element with a label ending with digit 20 Numbered. Similar numbered elements may have a different first digit label, which matches the number for that figure. As an example, the elements of FIG. 3 labeled 320 and the elements of FIG. 4 labeled 420 are similarly numbered. Similar numbered elements can have labels with subscripts (ie portions of labels following a dash symbol) that can be the same or different (eg, corresponding to a particular embodiment), for example The first embodiment of the element of FIG. 3A labeled 320-a and the second embodiment of the element of FIG. 3B labeled 320-b are similarly numbered.

  As used herein, the term “longitudinal” is parallel to the longitudinal centerline of the container when the container is upright on a horizontal support surface, as described herein. Refers to direction, orientation, or measurement. The vertical orientation may also be a “vertical” orientation. When expressed in the context of a horizontal support surface for a container, the longitudinal measurement may also be referred to as “height”, measured above the horizontal support surface.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “center” refers to the portion of the container that is located between the top of the container and the bottom of the container. As used herein, the term center may be modified by describing the term center with reference to a specific percentage value for the top and / or a specific percentage value for the bottom. For any of the embodiments of the flexible container disclosed herein, the criteria for the central portion of the container may be arbitrarily combined in various alternative embodiments for the top portion disclosed herein. Can refer to any particular percentage value for and / or the portion of the container located between any particular percentage value for the bottom disclosed herein.

  As used herein, when referring to a product volume, the term “multiple dose” contains a specific amount of product approximately equal to two or more units of typical consumption, application, or use by the end user. Refers to the product volume that is sized to do. Any of the container embodiments disclosed herein may be configured to have one or more multi-dose product volumes. A container having a single product volume that is a multi-dose product volume is referred to herein as a “multi-dose container”.

  As used herein, the term “nearly” modifies a particular value by referring to a range of plus or minus 5 percent (+/− 5%) equal to the particular value. For any of the container embodiments disclosed herein, any disclosure of a particular value may also be in a range equivalent to that particular value (ie +/− 5%) in various alternative embodiments. As a disclosure.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “non-durable” refers to a temporarily reusable or disposable or single use container.

  As used herein, when referring to a flexible container, the term “structural panel” refers to a flexible material and / or a flexible material that overlaps a product volume disposed within the flexible container. Refers to a laminate. In various embodiments, for example, in embodiments in which the container includes a structural support frame, the non-structural panel does not substantially increase the self-supporting properties of the container. In embodiments where the container does not include a structural support frame, the structural panel may optionally increase the self-supporting properties of the container. In some embodiments, the unstructured panel may be a product volume wall or panel. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a flexible container may include one or more non-structural panels. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a non-structural panel in the second portion of the first wall and a structural support member in the first portion of the first wall.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “total height” refers to the distance measured while the container is upright on a horizontal support surface, ie, the point on the top of the container from the top of the support surface. The point on the top of the container is farthest from the upper side of the support surface. Any of the embodiments of the flexible container disclosed herein can be any value in increments of 0.1 cm between 2.0 cm and 100.0 cm, or between 2.0 cm and 100.0 cm, or 4 0.0-90.0 cm, 5.0-80.0 cm, 6.0-70.0 cm, 7.0-60.0 cm, 8.0-50.0 cm, 9.0-40.0 cm, or 10. It may be configured to have an overall height within any range formed by any of the above values, such as 0-30.0.

  As used herein, when referring to a sheet of flexible material, the term “total thickness” refers to a linear dimension measured perpendicular to the outer major surface of the sheet when the sheet is flat. Point to. For any of the container embodiments disclosed herein, in various embodiments, any of the flexible materials is 5 to 500 micrometers (μm), or 5 to 500 micrometers. The total thickness of any integer value of or within any range formed by any of these values, such as, for example, 10-500 μm, 20-400 μm, 30-300 μm, 40-200 μm, or 50-100 μm Can be configured.

  As used herein, the term “product volume” refers to a storable three-dimensional space that is configured to receive and directly receive one or more flowable products, which is defined as flowable. Defined by one or more materials that form a septum that prevents the product from flowing out of the product volume. By directly containing one or more flowable products, the flowable product is in contact with the material that forms the three-dimensional space that can be stored, and there are no intermediate materials or containers that prevent such contact. Throughout this disclosure, the terms “product volume” and “product receiving volume” are used interchangeably and are intended to have the same meaning. Any of the container embodiments disclosed herein includes one product volume, two product volumes, three product volumes, four product volumes, five product volumes, six product volumes, or more It can be configured to have any number of product volumes, including product volumes. Any product volume disclosed herein may be 0.001 liter to 100.0 liter, or any value between 0.001 liter to 3.0 liter in increments of 0.001 liter, or 3. Any value between 0 liters and 10.0 liters in increments of 0.01 liters, or any value between 10.0 liters and 100.0 liters in increments of 1.0 liters, or any of the foregoing values (Eg, 0.001 to 2.2 liters, 0.01 to 2.0 liters, 0.05 to 1.8 liters, 0.1 to 1.6 liters, 0.15 to 0.15 liters) 1.4 liters, 0.2-1.2 liters, 0.25-1.0 liters, etc.). The product volume may have any shape in any orientation. The product volume may be included in a container having a structural support frame, and the product volume may be included in a container that does not have a structural support frame. In some embodiments, the product volume may be a free standing product volume. The product volume may be pressurized or depressurized in some embodiments, including when the product volume is closed and contains the product.

  As used herein, the term “resealable” means again after the flowable product in the product volume has been dispensed so that the flowable product in the product volume is again prevented from escaping from the product volume. Refers to the way the product volume can be opened so that it is closed. Some of the product volumes described herein may be reclosable.

  As used herein, the term “sealed” refers to a product volume when the flowable product in the product volume is a product (eg, by one or more materials forming a septum and by a seal). It refers to the state of the product volume that is prevented from flowing out of the volume and the product volume is hermetically sealed.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “self-supporting” is used when the structural support frame is unfilled when the container is on a horizontal support surface in at least one orientation. Even so, a container comprising a product volume and a structural support frame configured to prevent the container from collapsing and to provide the container with an overall height significantly greater than the combined thickness of the materials forming the container. Point to. Any of the container embodiments disclosed herein may be configured to be self-supporting.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “free-standing product volume” means that the product volume is filled with a flowable product when the product volume is on a horizontal support surface in at least one orientation. One or more walls and bottoms configured to prevent collapse of the product volume, even if not, and to give the product volume a total height significantly greater than the combined thickness of the materials forming the product volume Refers to the product volume. Any of the product volume embodiments disclosed herein may be configured to be free-standing. In some embodiments, the free-standing product volume can stand up (eg, the total height of the product volume is greater than the width of the product volume). In other embodiments, a free-standing product volume may not be considered standing. A free-standing product volume can be in the form of a cube, cuboid, prism (eg, triangular prism), cylinder, cone, pyramid (triangular pyramid), sphere, tetrahedron, another type of polyhedron, or some other shape. .

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “side” refers to the product volume, or the outer surface of a standoff structure. A side may refer to a product volume or a surface connecting the top and bottom surfaces of a standoff structure. In addition or alternatively, the sides may refer to the top and bottom surfaces of the product volume or standoff structure. Thus, any of the containers disclosed herein may include a front, left and right side, a back side, a top, a bottom, and / or other sides. Throughout this disclosure, the terms “face” and “panel” may be used interchangeably with “side”.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “single use” refers to a closed container that is not configured to be closed again after being opened by the end user. Any of the embodiments of the flexible container disclosed herein may be configured to be a single use.

  As used herein, when referring to a product volume, the term “single dose” contains a specific amount of product approximately equal to one unit of typical consumption, application, or use by the end user. Refers to the product volume to be sized. Any of the container embodiments disclosed herein may be configured to have one or more single dose product volumes. A container having a single product volume that is a single dose product volume is referred to herein as a “single dose container”.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the terms “stand up / stands up”, “standing up”, “stand upright / stands upright”, And “upright / upright” refers to a specific orientation of a free-standing flexible container when the container is on a horizontal support surface. This upright orientation can be determined from the structural characteristics of the container and / or indicia on the container. In the first test, if the container has a well-defined base structure that is configured to be used at the bottom of the container, the container is upright when the base structure is on a horizontal support surface. It is determined that If the first test cannot determine the upright orientation, the second judgment test should ensure that the container is on a horizontal support surface so that the indicia on the container is optimally positioned in the upright orientation. When directed, the container is determined to be upright. If the second test is unable to determine the upright orientation, the third test determines that the container is oriented as if it is on a horizontal support surface so that the container has the maximum overall height. Is determined to be upright. If the third test cannot determine the upright orientation, the fourth test determines that the container is oriented as far as possible on a horizontal support surface so that the container has the maximum height area ratio. The container is determined to be upright. If the fourth test cannot determine the upright orientation, any orientation used in the fourth determination test can be considered to be an upright orientation.

As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “stand-up container” means that the container is 0.4-1... When the container is standing (all of the product volume is 100% filled with water). Refers to a self-supporting container with a height region ratio of 5 cm ⁻¹ . Any of the container embodiments disclosed herein may be configured to be an upright container.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “standoff structure” refers to a protrusion, protrusion, tab, volume, chamber, blister, dunnage (eg, bubble) cushioning material, fender, or product volume. Refers to other separate structural members connected to (free standing product volume). The standoff structure may be a fillable space made of one or more flexible materials, the spaces being at least partially with one or more inflatable materials (eg, one or more flowable materials). Can be configured to be filled. For example, the space may be configured to be partially or fully filled with one or more inflatable materials, which results in an inflated standoff structure and thus one or more flexible May cause an increase in the tension of the conductive material. The standoff structure may alternatively be pressurized with a gas. The standoff structure may alternatively be a solid structure made of one or more inflexible (eg, solid, rigid) materials (ie, it has no fillable space). One or more standoff structures of one or more other containers such that one or more standoff structures associated with a given container selectively secures or couples the container to another container; It may be shaped or configured to cooperate, and this interconnection may be made with each of the containers in the same orientation, the containers facing each other, or otherwise rotated. (E.g., an upright container adjacent to an inverted container) or some of the plurality of containers are in a first orientation and at least one of the other plurality of containers is in a second orientation. (E.g., upright-inverted-upright, or upright-upright-inverted, upright-inverted-upright-inverted, upright-inverted-inverted-upright, upright-inverted-inverted-inverted), one or more of these corresponding Interconnected by multiple standoff structures Of the container may also be present. Alternatively or additionally, one or more standoff structures associated with a given container may be one of one or more sidewalls of the carton, shipping box, packaging, bag, wrap, or box that houses the container. Cooperating with one or more standoff structures or one or more standoff structures of one or more spacer elements provided in a carton, transport box, packaging, bag, wrap, or box containing the container Such spacer elements may be shaped or configured to separate individual containers from each other and / or from cartons, transport boxes, packaging, bags, wraps, or box walls. Provided to separate the containers.

  This standoff structure can be made of one or more of the same materials as the product volume. In some embodiments, the standoff structure and the product volume can be made of the same material. The standoff structure may alternatively be made of one or more materials that are different from the product volume.

  The standoff structure may be integrally formed (eg, attached) with the product volume. For example, the standoff structure and product volume may share a common material layer (eg, a film layer) when formed. Alternatively, the standoff structure and the product volume may be formed separately and later joined together. The stand-off structure may in some embodiments be a separate set of elements associated with the container, but the container only in one or more positions so that the stand-off structure forms an outer frame. Can be connected to. The standoff structure can have various shapes and sizes. Part, parts, or all of the standoff structure may be straight, curved, angled, arcuate, segmented, or other shape, or any combination of these shapes. Part, parts, or all of the standoff structure is circular, oval, elliptical, square, triangular, star-shaped, or variations of these shapes, or other shapes, or any combination of these shapes Or any other suitable cross-sectional shape. The standoff structure may have an overall shape that is tubular, convex, or concave along part, part, or all of the length. The standoff structure may have any suitable cross-sectional area, any suitable overall width, any suitable overall length, and any suitable overall height, and can be positioned at any height. The standoff structure may be substantially uniform along its length, cross section, and / or part, part, or all of the length, or by any method described herein. , There may be variation along its length, cross section, and / or part, part, or all of its height. For example, the cross-sectional area of the stand-off structure can be increased or decreased along part, all or part of its length and / or its height. As another example, the height of the standoff structure may vary along part, part, or all of the length. Some, parts, or all of any of the embodiments of the standoff structure of the present disclosure may be of structures, properties, materials, and / or connections from any number of embodiments disclosed herein. It can be configured according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein, including any possible combination.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “structural support frame” is joined together around one or more sizable open spaces and / or one or more non-structural panels; Refers to a rigid structure formed from one or more structural support members that are commonly used as the primary support in allowing the container to stand and / or stand upright.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “structural support member” refers to a rigid physical structure, which comprises one or more inflated structural support volumes and spans a span ( It is configured to be used in a structural support frame to hold one or more loads (from a flexible container). Structures that do not include at least one inflatable structural support volume are not considered to be structural support members herein.

  The structural support member has two defined ends, a central portion between the two ends, and an overall length from one end to the other end. The structural support member can have one or more cross-sectional areas, each of the regions having an overall width that is less than its overall length.

  The structural support member can be configured in various forms. The structural support member may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six or more structural support volumes prepared in various ways. For example, the structural support member may be formed by a single structural support volume. As another example, the structural support member may be formed by a plurality of structural support volumes arranged in series end to end, and in various embodiments, one of some or all of the structural support volumes. The parts, parts, or all may be partly or entirely in contact with each other, partly or wholly directly connected to each other, and / or partly or wholly joined together. As a further example, the structural support member may be formed by a plurality of support volumes arranged side by side in the lateral direction, and in various embodiments, some or all of some or all of the structural support volumes. , Or all may be partly or wholly in contact with each other, partly or wholly directly connected to each other, and / or partly or wholly joined together.

  In some embodiments, the structural support member can comprise a number of different types of elements. For example, a structural support member can comprise one or more structural support volumes along with one or more mechanical reinforcement elements (eg, braces, collars, connectors, joints, ribs, etc.), It can be made from one or more rigid (eg, solid) materials.

  The structural support member can have a variety of shapes and sizes. Part, parts, or all of the structural support member may be straight, curved, angled, segmented, or other shape, or any combination of these shapes. Some, each, or all of the structural support members may be circular, oval, square, triangular, star shaped, or modifications of these shapes, or other shapes, or any combination of these shapes, etc. , Can have any suitable cross-sectional shape. The structural support member can have a tubular, convex, or concave overall shape along part, part, or all of the length. The structural support member can have any suitable cross-sectional area, any suitable overall width, and any suitable overall length. The structural support member may be substantially uniform along a portion, portions, or all of its length, or is described herein along a portion, portions, or all of its length. May be varied in any way. For example, the cross-sectional area of the structural support member can be increased or decreased along part, part or all of its length. Some, portions, or all of any of the structural support member embodiments of the present disclosure may be of structures, properties, materials, and / or connections from any number of embodiments disclosed herein. It can be configured according to any embodiment disclosed herein, including any possible combination.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “structural support volume” refers to a fillable space made from one or more flexible materials, which space is one or more inflations. Constructed to be at least partially filled with material, the inflating material creates tension in one or more flexible materials to form an inflated structural support volume. One or more inflated structural support volumes may be configured to be included in the structural support member. A structural support volume is a structure without a fillable space (eg, an open space), a structure made from an inflexible (eg, solid) material, a structure with a space that is not configured to be filled with an intumescent material ( Others such as non-attached areas between adjacent layers of a multi-layer panel) and structures of flexible materials that are not configured to be inflated by an intumescent material (eg, spaces in structures configured to be non-structural panels) This is different from the structure constructed by this method. Throughout this disclosure, the terms “structural support volume” and “expandable chamber” are used interchangeably and are intended to have the same meaning.

  In some embodiments, the structural support frame can comprise a plurality of structural support volumes, some or all of the structural support volumes being in fluid communication with each other. In other embodiments, the structural support frame can comprise a plurality of structural support volumes, and some or none of the structural support volumes are in fluid communication with each other. Any of the structural support frames of the present disclosure may be configured to have any type of fluid communication disclosed herein.

  As used herein, the term “substantially” modifies a particular value by referring to a range of plus or minus 10 percent (+/− 10%) equal to the particular value. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, any disclosure of a particular value may also be in a range equivalent to that particular value (ie +/-) in various alternative embodiments. 10%) disclosure.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “temporarily reusable” is used before a failure occurs in the container that makes the container unsuitable for receiving, receiving, or dispensing the product. , Refers to a container configured to be refilled with an additional amount of product after dispensing the product to the end user up to 10 times. As used herein, the term “temporarily reusable” can be further limited by modifying the number of times a container can be refilled before such a failure occurs in the container. For any of the flexible container embodiments disclosed herein, the temporarily reusable criteria can be determined by refilling up to 8 times before failure in various alternative embodiments. By refilling up to 6 times before, by refilling up to 4 times before failure, or by refilling up to 2 times before failure, or between 1 and 10 times before failure Can be pointed to be temporarily reusable by refilling with any integer value. Any of the container embodiments disclosed herein, particularly any of the flexible container embodiments, may be temporarily reusable for the number of refills disclosed herein. Can be configured.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “thickness” refers to the third of the container when the container is upright on a horizontal support surface, as described herein. Refers to the measured value parallel to the center line. The thickness may also be referred to as “depth”.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “top” refers to the portion of the container that is located on the high side 20% of the total height of the container, ie, 80-100% of the total height of the container. As used herein, the term top can be further limited by modifying the term top with a specific percentage value of less than 20%. For any of the container embodiments disclosed herein, the container top criteria is, in various alternative embodiments, 15% top (ie 85-100% of the total height), 10% top (ie 90 to 100% of the total height), or top 5% (ie 95 to 100% of the total height), or any integer value between 0% and 20%.

  As used herein, when referring to a container, the term “non-expanded” refers to one or more configured to be formed into a structural support volume prior to the structural support volume being hardened by the intumescent material. Refers to the state of the material. The term “non-expanded” also refers to the state of one or more materials configured to be formed into a standoff structure.

  As used herein, when referring to the product volume of a container, the term “unfilled” refers to the state of the product volume when it does not contain a flowable product.

  As used herein, when referring to a flexible container, the term “unformed” refers to a defined three-dimensional space of one or more materials configured to be formed in a product volume. It refers to the state before being provided in the product volume. For example, the article of manufacture can be a semi-finished product of a container having a preformed product volume, with sheets of flexible material joining the parts together and staying flat with each other.

  Containers as described herein can be used across a variety of industries for a variety of products. For example, any of the container embodiments described herein can be used across the consumer product industry, including any of the following products, any of which are described herein. Or any formable flowable product known in the art: baby care products (eg, soaps, shampoos and lotions), human or animal hair for cleaning, processing, beautifying And / or cosmetic care products for decoration (eg hair shampoos, hair conditioners, hair dyes, hair colorants, hair repair products, hair growth products, hair removal products, hair reduction products, etc.), human or animal skin Beauty care products for cleaning, processing, beautifying and / or decorating (eg soap, body wash, body scrub, face wash, astringent, sunburn Beauty for cleaning, treating, beautifying and / or decorating nails of humans or animals), sunscreen lotions, lip balms, cosmetics, skin conditioners, cold creams, skin moisturizers, antiperspirants, deodorants, etc.) Care products (eg nail polish, nail polish remover), human facial hair cleaning, processing, beautifying and / or decorative care products (eg shaving products, pre-shaving products, after-shaving products, etc.), Health care products for cleaning, treating, beautifying and / or decorating the oral cavity of humans or animals (for example, toothpastes, mouthwashes, bad breath deodorant products, anti-plaque products, dental whitening products, etc.), humans and / or animals Health care products (eg medicines, drugs, pharmaceuticals, vitamins, nutrients, nutritional supplements (cal , Cough products, cold medicine, treatment of respiratory and / or allergic diseases, pain relief, hypnotics, gastrointestinal treatment products (heartburn, upset stomach, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, etc.), purified water, treatment Water, etc.), pet care products for feeding and / or caring for animals (eg pet food, pet vitamins, pet drugs, pet chews, pet treatments, etc.), fabrics, cloths and / or laundry Fabric care products (eg laundry detergents, fabric conditioners, fabric dyes, fabric bleaches etc.), household, commercial and / or commercial tableware care products (eg Tableware soap and rinsing aids for hand washing and / or machine cleaning), household, commercial and / or commercial cleaning and / or deodorizing products (eg, soft surface cleaning agents) Hard surface cleaners, glass cleaners, ceramic tile cleaners, carpet cleaners, wood cleaners, multi-surface cleaners, surface disinfectants, kitchen cleaners, bath cleaners (eg sinks, toilets, bathtubs, and And / or shower cleaner), equipment cleaning products, equipment processing products, car cleaning products, car deodorizing products, air cleaners, air deodorizers, air disinfectants, etc.).

  By way of further example, any of the embodiments of the container described herein may be used for additional household, commercial, and / or commercial, building and / or ground, construction, and / or maintenance. Any processable flowable product form (e.g., liquid) that can be used across the area and includes any of the following products, any of which are described herein or known in the art. Products for forming, maintaining, modifying, treating and / or improving lawns, gardens and / or grounds (eg grass seeds, vegetable seeds, plant seeds, grains) Bait, other types of seeds, plant foods, fertilizers, soil nutrients, and / or soil conditions (eg, nitrogen, phosphate, potash, lime, etc.), soil sterilants, herbicides, weed control agents Pest control agent, pest Repellents, insecticides, insect repellents, etc.), landscape products (eg topsoil, potting soil, general purpose soil, root cover, pieces of wood, bark mass, sand, all kinds of natural stones and / or rocks ( For example, decorative stones, bean gravel, ballast, etc.), artificial compositions based on stones and rocks (eg paving stone bases)), products for lighting and / or burning in grills, furnaces, ovens, etc. (E.g. firewood, ignition nuggets, charcoal, ignition fluids, matches, etc.), lighting products (e.g. bulbs and light tubes, or incandescent bulbs, small fluorescent lamps, fluorescent lamps of any size, shape and application Chemicals for construction, maintenance, refurbishment and / or decoration (eg concrete, cement, mortar, mixed colorants, concrete hardener / Sealant, concrete protective agent, grout, asphalt sealant, crack filler / repair material product, repair material, bonding compound, primer, paint, stain, topcoat, sealant, caulking agent, adhesive, epoxy resin, drainage cleaning / clogging removal product , Sepsis treatment products, etc.), chemical products (eg thinners, solvents and strippers / removers containing alcohol, mineral spirits, terpentine, linseed oil, etc.), water treatment products (eg water softening products, eg salt, bacteriostatic) Medicines, disinfectants, etc.), all kinds of fasteners (eg screws, bolts, nuts, washers, nails, staples, for use with / in / on wood, metal plastic, concrete, concrete, etc. Tack, hanger, pin, pile, rivet, clip, ring, ), And the like.

  As a further example, any embodiment of the container described herein can be used throughout the food and beverage industry, including any of the following products, any of which are described herein. Or may be in the form of any processable flowable product known in the art: food such as basic ingredients (eg made from rice, wheat, corn, beans, and any of these) Derivative materials, plus nuts, seeds and beans, etc.), cooking ingredients (eg, spices such as sugar, salt and pepper, cooking oil, vinegar, tomato paste, natural and artificial sweeteners, flavors, Seasonings), baking ingredients (eg baking powder, starch, shortening, syrup, food coloring, fillings, gelatin, chocolate chips, and other Chips, sugar coating, sprinkles, toppings, etc.), dairy products (eg cream, yogurt, sour cream, whey, casein), spreads (eg jam, jelly, etc.), sauces (eg barbecue sauce, salad dressing, Tomato sauce), seasonings (eg ketchup, mustard, garnish, mayonnaise, etc.), processed foods (noodles and pasta, dry cereals, cereal mixes, premade mixes, snack chips and snacks, and all sorts of snack mixes, Pretzels, crackers, cookies, candy, all kinds of chocolates, marshmallows, puddings, etc.), water, milk, juice, flavored and / or carbonated beverages (eg soda), sports drinks, coffee, tea, sushi Brit, beverages such as alcoholic beverages (eg beer, wine etc.) and materials for preparing or mixing beverages (eg coffee beans, ground coffee, cocoa, tea leaves, dehydrated beverages, powders for preparing beverages) Natural and artificial sweeteners, flavors, etc.). Further prepared foods, fruits, vegetables, soups, meats, pasta, microwave-cookable and / or frozen foods, plus agricultural products, eggs, milk, and other fresh foods. Any of the container embodiments disclosed herein may also be sterilized (eg, UV or peroxidation) to make the container safe for use in storing food and / or beverages. By treating with a product-based composition). In any embodiment, the container may be configured to be suitable for the retort process.

  As a further example, any embodiment of the container described herein can be used across the medical industry (medical, medical device, and therapeutic areas), which is any known in the art. Including use for receiving, containing, storing and / or dispensing any of the following fluid products in form: human and / or animal body fluids (eg amniotic fluid, aqueous humor, vitreous humor, bile, blood) , Plasma, serum, breast milk, cerebrospinal fluid, cerumen (earwax), milk fistula, sputum, endolymph (and perilymph), semen, liquid feces, gastric acid, gastric fluid, lymph, mucus (nasal leakage) ), Membrane fluid, peritoneal fluid, pleural fluid, pus, mucosal secretions, saliva, sebum (skin oil), semen, saliva, joint fluid, tears, sweat, vaginal secretions, vomiting, urine, etc.) Fluids for intravenous therapy to the human or animal body (eg For example, volume expanding agents (eg, crystalline and colloidal), blood-based products including blood substitutes, buffer solutions, liquid drugs (which may include pharmaceuticals), parenteral nutritional formulas (eg, parenteral nutrition, Such formulations may include salt, glucose, amino acids, lipids, supplements, nutrients, and / or vitamins), by any suitable method of administration (eg, oral) (in the form of a solid, liquid, or pill). Other medicinal solutions (eg, drugs, drugs, nutrients, functional foods, pharmaceuticals, etc.) for administration to the human or animal body, topically, intravenously, from inhalation, or from the rectum. Any of the disclosed container embodiments may also be sterilized (eg, treated with ultraviolet or peroxide-based compositions) to make the container safe for use in a sterile medical environment. By the, or autoclave or distillation processes).

  As a further example, any embodiment of the container can be used across any and all industries that use internal combustion engines (eg, transportation industry, power facility industry, power generation industry, etc.) As is known in the art, cars, trucks, automobiles, boats, airplanes comprising such containers useful for receiving, containing, storing and / or dispensing any of the following flowable products: Products for vehicles such as: engine oil, engine oil additives, fuel additives, brake fluid, transmission fluid, engine coolant, power steering fluid, wiper fluid, products for vehicle care (eg body Tires, wheels, windows, trims, interiors, etc.) plus any and / or all types of engines, power facilities, and / or Transport cleaning one or more parts of the vehicle, penetration, grease removal, lubrication, and / or protection to so constructed other fluids.

  Embodiments of any of the containers described herein can also be used to receive, contain, store, and / or dispense non-flowable products of any of the following categories: disposable Beauty including wearable absorbent articles, diapers, training pants, infant and infant care wipes, baby care products, applicators for applying compositions to human or animal hair, skin, and / or nails, etc. Care products, family care products such as wipes and scrubbers, wet or dry tissues, facial tissues, disposable handkerchiefs, disposable towels, wipes, sanitary pads, etc. Incontinence pad, interlabial pad, panty liner, pessary, sanitary napkin, tampon, tampon Pet care products including applicators, feminine care products including wipes, oral cleaning products, dental floss, flossing devices, health care products including toothbrushes, grooming aids, pet training aids, pet equipment, pet toys, etc. Portable generator products, including electrochemical cells, batteries, battery current interrupters, battery testers, battery chargers, battery charge monitoring devices, battery charge / discharge rate control devices, “smart” battery electronics, flashlights, etc. Small device products including hair removal devices (eg, men and women electric foil shavers, charging and / or washing stations, electric hair trimmers, electric scissors trimmers, electric hair removal devices, cleaning fluid cartridges, shaving conditioner cartridges, shaving foils, And cutter block), oral care device (capacitor or battery) Electric toothbrush, replacement brush head, interdental washer, tongue washer, charging station, oral irrigator, and irrigation clip on jet), small electric household equipment (eg coffee maker, kettle, hand blender, hand Mixers, food processors, steam cookers, juicers, citrus squeezers, toasters, coffee or meat grinders, vacuum pumps, irons, steam pressure sections for irons, and generally non-electrical fittings therefor, and for them Hair care devices (eg, electric dryers, hair stylers, hair curlers, hair straighteners, cordless gas heated stylers / irons, and gas cartridges therefor, and gas filter fittings), personal diagnostic crises (eg, blood pressure monitors, ear thermometers) And its Including lens filters for), clock appliances, and watch appliances (eg, alarm clocks, travel alarm clocks combined with radios, wall clocks, watches, and portable computers).

  1A-1D are various views of one embodiment of a stand up flexible container 100. FIG. 1A is a front view of the container 100. The container 100 stands upright on a horizontal support surface 101.

  In FIG. 1A, the coordinate system 110 provides a reference line for referring to the direction of the figure. The coordinate system 110 is a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system having an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis. Each axis is perpendicular to the other axis, and any two of the axes define a plane. The X axis and the Z axis are parallel to the horizontal support surface 101, and the Y axis is perpendicular to the horizontal support surface 101.

  FIG. 1A also includes other baselines for referencing directions and positions with respect to the container 100. The horizontal center line 111 runs parallel to the X axis. The XY plane of the horizontal centerline 111 divides the container 100 into a front half and a rear half. The XZ plane of the lateral centerline 111 divides the container 100 into an upper half and a lower half. The vertical center line 114 runs parallel to the Y axis. The YZ plane of the longitudinal centerline 114 divides the container 100 into a left half and a right half. The third center line 117 runs parallel to the Z axis. The horizontal center line 111, the vertical center line 114, and the third center line 117 all intersect at the center of the container 100.

  The arrangement with respect to the center line 111 in the horizontal direction delimits the inner side 112 in the vertical direction and the outer side 113 in the vertical direction. When the first position is closer to the horizontal center line 111 than the second position, the first position is considered to be disposed on the inner side 112 in the vertical direction with respect to the second position. The second position is considered to be disposed on the outer side 113 in the vertical direction from the first position. The term lateral refers to a direction, orientation, or measurement that is parallel to the lateral centerline 111. The lateral orientation may also be horizontal and the lateral measurement may also be referred to as width.

  The arrangement with respect to the longitudinal center line 114 defines what is laterally inward 115 and laterally outward 116. When the first position is closer to the center line 114 in the vertical direction than the second position, the first position is considered to be disposed on the inner side 115 in the lateral direction with respect to the second position. The second position is considered to be disposed on the outer side 116 in the lateral direction from the first position. The term longitudinal direction refers to a direction, orientation, or measurement that is parallel to the longitudinal centerline 114. The vertical orientation may also be a vertical orientation.

  The longitudinal direction, orientation, or measurement may also be expressed in the context of the horizontal support surface of the container 100. When the first position is closer to the support surface than the second position, the first position is lower than the second position, below the second position, and below the second position. Or may be considered to be located under the second position. The second position can be considered to be higher than the first position and above (above) the first position or upward from the second position. The longitudinal measurement may also be referred to as the height measured above the horizontal support surface 100.

  The measured value parallel to the third center line 117 is the thickness or depth. The arrangement towards the front 102-1 of the container in the direction of the third centerline 117 is referred to as the front 118, or in front of. The arrangement in the direction of the third centerline 117 towards the back surface 102-2 of the container is referred to as rear 119 or behind.

  These terms for orientation, orientation, measurements, and placement, as described above, refer to all of the embodiments of the present disclosure, regardless of whether a support surface, reference line, or coordinate system is shown in the figure. Used against.

  The container 100 includes a top portion 104, a central portion 106, and a bottom portion 108, a front surface 102-1, a back surface 102-2, and left and right side portions 109. The top 104 is separated from the central portion 106 by a reference plane 105 that is parallel to the XZ plane. The central portion 106 is separated from the bottom portion 108 by a reference plane 107, which is also parallel to the XZ plane. The container 100 has an overall height of 100-oh. In the embodiment of FIG. 1A, the front 102-1 and back 102-2 of the container are joined together with a seal 129 that extends across the top 104 and down the side 109 to the outer periphery of the container 100. Then, at the bottom of each side 109, the outer area is split to the outside along the front and back portions of the base 190.

  The container 100 comprises a structural support frame 140, a product volume 150, a dispenser 160, panels 180-1 and 180-2, and a base structure 190. A portion of panel 180-1 is shown removed to show product volume 150. Product volume 150 is configured to contain one or more flowable products. The dispenser 160 allows the container 100 to dispense these flowable products from the product volume 150 through the flow path 159 and then through the dispenser 160 to the environment outside the container 100. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1A-1D, the dispenser 160 is positioned in the middle of the top of the top 104, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 160 can be attached to either the panel 180-1 on either side 109. 180-2, as well as any portion of the base 190 of the container 100, including any location, may be placed at any other location on the top 140, center 106, or bottom 108. . The structural support frame 140 supports the mass of the flowable product within the product volume 150 and allows the container 100 to stand upright. Panels 180-1 and 180-2 are relatively flat surfaces that cover product volume 150 and are suitable for displaying any type of indicia. However, in various embodiments, one, one, or part of panels 180-1 and 180-2, parts, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or nearly all, or all, are one. The above curved surface can be included. Base structure 190 supports structural support frame 140 and provides stability to container 100 such that container 100 stands upright.

  The structural support frame 140 is formed by a plurality of structural support members. The structural support frame 140 includes top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2, central structural support members 146-1, 146-2, 146-3 and 146-4, and bottom structural support members 148-. 1 and 148-2.

  The top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2 are disposed on the top of the top 104 of the container 100, the top structural support member 144-1 is disposed on the front surface 102-1, and the top structural support member 144-2. Is located behind the top structural support member 144-1 on the back surface 102-2. The top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2 are adjacent to each other and can contact each other along the laterally outward portion of their length. In various embodiments, the top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2 may include one or more relatively long channels 159 as long as the channel 159 exists between the top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2. Along a small portion and / or one or more relatively large portions, part of their full length, or each, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or nearly all, or all, Due to the presence of the flow paths, the container 100 can dispense the flowable product from the product volume 150 via the flow path 159 and then the dispenser 160. The top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2 are not directly connected to each other. However, in various alternative embodiments, the top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2 may be part of their full length, or portions, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all. , Or all along, can be directly connected and / or joined together.

  The top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2 are disposed substantially above the product volume 150. Overall, each of the top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2 is oriented approximately horizontally, but its ends are slightly curved downward. And overall, each of the top structural support members 144-1 and 144-2 has a substantially constant cross-sectional area along their length, but the cross-sectional area of their ends is , Slightly larger than the cross-sectional area at their center.

  Center structural support members 146-1, 146-2, 146-3, and 146-4 are disposed on the left and right side 109 from the top 104 through the center 106 to the bottom 108. The central structural support member 146-1 is disposed on the left side 109 of the front surface 102-1 and the central structural support member 146-4 is the central structural support member 146 of the left side 109 of the back surface 102-2. 1 is placed behind. The central structural support members 146-1 and 146-4 are adjacent to each other and can contact each other along substantially all of their lengths. In various embodiments, the central structural support members 146-1 and 146-4 are part of their overall length in one or more relatively small portions and / or in one or more relatively large portions, Alternatively, they can be in contact with one another along each part, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or all. The central structural support members 146-1 and 146-4 are not directly connected to each other. However, in various alternative embodiments, the top structural support members 146-1 and 146-4 are part of their full length, or portions, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or nearly all. , Or all along, can be directly connected and / or joined together.

  The central structural support member 146-2 is disposed on the right side 109 of the front face 102-1 and the central structural support member 146-3 is the central structural support member 146 of the right side 109 of the back face 102-2. 2 is placed behind. The central structural support members 146-2 and 146-3 are adjacent to each other and can contact each other along substantially all of their lengths. In various embodiments, the central structural support members 146-2 and 146-3 are part of their overall length in one or more relatively small portions and / or in one or more relatively large portions, Alternatively, they can be in contact with one another along each part, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or all. The central structural support members 146-2 and 146-3 are not directly connected to each other. However, in various alternative embodiments, the top structural support members 146-2 and 146-3 are part of their entire length, or portions, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all. , Or all along, can be directly connected and / or joined together.

  The central structural indicator members 146-1, 146-2, 146-3, and 146-4 are disposed substantially laterally outward of the product volume 150. Overall, each of the central structural support members 146-1, 146-2, 146-3, and 146-4 is oriented approximately vertically but slightly angled, with their upper ends Is closer to the inner side in the lateral direction than the lower ends thereof. And overall, each of the central structural support members 146-1, 146-2, 146-3, and 146-4 has a cross-sectional area that varies along their length, The size increases from the upper end of each to the lower end thereof.

  The bottom structural support members 148-1 and 148-2 are disposed on the bottom 108 of the container 100, the bottom structural support member 148-1 is disposed on the front surface 102-1 and the bottom structural support member 148-1 is disposed on the back surface. 102-2 is positioned behind the bottom structural support member 148-1. The bottom structural support members 148-1 and 148-2 are adjacent to each other and can contact each other along substantially all of their lengths. In various embodiments, the central structural support members 148-1 and 148-2 are one or more relatively small portions and / or one or more relatively large portions, a portion of their overall length, Alternatively, they can be in contact with one another along each part, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or all. The bottom structural support members 148-1 and 148-2 are not directly connected to each other. However, in various alternative embodiments, the top structural support members 148-1 and 148-2 are part of their full length, or portions, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or nearly all. , Or all along, can be directly connected and / or joined together.

  The bottom structural support members 148-1 and 148-2 are disposed substantially below the product volume 150 but substantially above the base structure 190. Overall, each of the bottom structural support members 148-1 and 148-2 is oriented approximately horizontally, but its ends are slightly curved upward. And overall, each of the bottom structural support members 148-1 and 148-2 has a substantially constant cross-sectional area along their length.

  At the front portion of the structural support frame 140, the left end of the top structural support member 144-1 is joined to the upper end of the central structural support member 146-1 and the lower end of the central structural support member 146-1. Is joined to the left end of the bottom structural support member 148-1, the right end of the bottom structural support member 148-1 is joined to the lower end of the center structural support member 146-2, and the center structural support The upper end of member 146-2 is joined to the right end of top structural support member 144-1. In the front portion of the structural support frame 140, the left end portion of the top structural support member 144-2 is joined to the upper end portion of the central structural support member 146-4, and the lower end portion of the central structural support member 146-4. Is joined to the left end of the bottom structural support member 148-2, the right end of the bottom structural support member 148-2 is joined to the lower end of the central structural support member 146-3, and the central structural support The upper end of member 146-3 is joined to the right end of top structural support member 144-2. In the structural support frame 140, the ends of the structural support members that are joined together are directly connected over the entire perimeter of their walls. However, in various alternative embodiments, any of the structural support members 144-1, 144-2, 146-1, 146-2, 146-3, 146-4, 148-1, and 148-2 is They can be joined together in any manner described herein or known in the art.

  In an alternative embodiment of the structural support frame 140, adjacent structural support members can be combined into a single structural support member, and the combined structural support members represent the surrogate for adjacent structural support members. The functions and connections can be effectively served as described herein. In other alternative embodiments of the structural support frame 140, one or more additional structural support members may be added to the structural support member of the structural support frame 140, with the expanded structural support frame being structural. The surrogate of the support frame 140 can serve effectively as its function and connections are described herein. Also, in some alternative embodiments, the flexible container may not comprise a base structure.

  FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the stand up flexible container 100 of FIG. 1A.

  FIG. 1C illustrates a top view of the stand up flexible container 100 of FIG. 1A.

  FIG. 1D illustrates a bottom view of the stand up flexible container 100 of FIG. 1A.

  1E includes the asymmetric structural support frame 140-1, the first portion of the product volume 150-1b, the second portion of the product volume 150-1a, and the dispenser 160-1 of FIG. 1A. The perspective view of container 100-1 which is another embodiment of sex container 100 is illustrated. The embodiment of FIG. 1E is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1A, and like numbered items are configured the same except that the frame 140-1 surrounds approximately half of the container 100-1. The second portion of the product volume 150-1a that extends directly to and directly supports the first portion 150-1b of the product volume disposed on the inside of the frame 140-1 and that is disposed on the outside of the frame 140-1. Indirect support. In various embodiments, any stand-up flexible container of the present disclosure may be similarly modified, with the frame extending only around the portion (s) of the container, and / or the frame of the container One or more product volume portions that are asymmetric with respect to one or more centerlines and / or one or more product volume portion (s) of the container are located outside the frame and / or one or more product volumes of the container The part (s) are indirectly supported by the frame.

  FIG. 1F shows a container 100-2, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 100 of FIG. 1A, including an internal structural support frame 140-2, a product volume 150-2, and a dispenser 160-2. A perspective view is illustrated. The embodiment of FIG. 1F is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1A, and like numbered items are configured the same except that the frame 140-2 is inside the product volume 150-2. . In various embodiments, the stand-up flexible container of the present disclosure is similarly modified to be part of the frame (s) or all (part of any structural support member (s) that form the frame). ) Or all) is roughly enclosed by one or more product volumes, approximately, substantially, substantially, or completely.

  FIG. 1G illustrates a container 100-3, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 100 of FIG. 1A, including an external structural support frame 140-3, a product volume 150-3, and a dispenser 160-3. A perspective view is illustrated. The embodiment of FIG. 1G is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1A, with like numbered items configured the same, except that the product volume 150-3 is integrally connected to the frame 140-3. Not made (ie not made simultaneously from the same web of flexible container), the product volume 150-3 is made separately and then connected to the frame 140-3. Product volume 150-3 may be joined to the frame in any convenient manner as disclosed herein or known in the art. In the embodiment of FIG. 1G, the product volume 150-3 is disposed within the frame 140-3, but compared to the product volume 150 of FIG. 1A, the product volume 150-3 has a smaller volume and shape. Are slightly different, but these differences are provided to illustrate the relationship between the product volume 150-3 and the frame 140-3 and are not essential. In various embodiments, any stand-up flexible container of the present disclosure can be similarly modified so that one or more of the product volumes are not integrally connected to the frame.

  2A-8G show embodiments of standing flexible containers having various overall shapes. Any of the embodiments of FIGS. 2A-8G may be configured in accordance with any of the embodiments disclosed herein, including the embodiments of FIGS. 1A-1G. Any of the elements of the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-8G (eg, structural support frame, structural support member, panel, dispenser, etc.) may be configured in accordance with any of the embodiments disclosed herein. While each of the embodiments of FIGS. 2A-8G shows a container with one dispenser, in various embodiments, each container comprises a plurality of dispensers according to any of the embodiments described herein. be able to. 2A-8G illustrate exemplary add / alternate positions for the dispenser in phantom outline. 2A-8G, some, each, or approximately all, or almost all, substantially all, or substantially all, or all of the panels in the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-8G display any kind of indicia. It is suitable for. Each of the side panels in the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-8G is configured to be a non-structural panel that covers a product volume disposed within a flexible container, but in various embodiments, (outside surface One or more of any kind of decorative or structural elements (such as ribs protruding from) may be part of, part of, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially, of these side panels. All or all can be joined. For clarity, not all structural details of these flexible containers are shown in FIGS. 2A-8G, but any of the embodiments of FIGS. 2A-8B may be disclosed herein. It can be configured to include any structure or characteristic for the flexible container. For example, any of the embodiments of FIGS. 2A-8G may be configured with any type of base structure disclosed herein.

  FIG. 2A is a front view of a stand up flexible container 200 having a structural support frame 240 having a frustum-shaped overall shape. In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the frustum shape is based on a quadrangular pyramid, but in various embodiments, the frustum shape can be based on a pyramid with a different number of sides, or the frustum shape is a cone. Can be based. The support frame 240 is formed by a structural support member disposed along the frustum-shaped side and joined to each other at the ends. The structural support members define a rectangular top panel 280-t, trapezoidal side panels 280-1, 280-2, 280-3, and 280-4, and a rectangular bottom panel (not shown). Each of the side panels 280-1, 280-2, 280-3, and 280-4 is approximately flat, but in various embodiments, some of the side panels, each part, or approximately All, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or all can be almost flat, substantially flat, substantially flat, or completely flat. The container 200 includes a dispenser 260 that is configured to dispense one or more flowable products from one or more product volumes disposed within the container 200. In the embodiment of FIG. 2A, the dispenser 260 is centrally located on the top panel 280-t, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 260 is any embodiment described or illustrated herein. And can be placed anywhere else on the top, side, or bottom of the container 200. FIG. 2B is a front view of the container 200 of FIG. 2A, including exemplary additional / alternative positions for the dispenser, any of these positions can also be applied to the back of the container. FIG. 2C is a side view of the container 200 of FIG. 2A including exemplary additional / alternate positions for the dispenser (shown as phantom lines), any of these positions applied to both sides of the container can do. FIG. 2D is an isometric view of the container 200 of FIG. 2A.

  2E is an asymmetric structural support frame 240-1, a first portion of product volume 250-1b, product volume 250, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1E, except based on container 200. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a container 200-1, which is another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 200 of FIG. 2A, including a second portion of -1a and a dispenser 260-1. FIG. 1E includes an internal structural support frame 240-2, product volume 250-2, and dispenser 260-2 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a container 200-2, another embodiment of a 2A standing flexible container 200. FIG. 1E is based on the container 200, except that it is constructed in the same manner as the embodiment of FIG. 1G, joined to the external structural support frame 240-3, frame 240-3, and a non-integral piece disposed therein 2B illustrates a perspective view of a container 200-3, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 200 of FIG. 2A, including a typical product volume 250-3 and a dispenser 260-3.

  FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of a stand up flexible container 300 having a structural support frame 340 having a pyramidal overall shape. In the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the pyramid shape is based on a quadrangular pyramid, but in various embodiments, the pyramid shape can be based on a pyramid with a different number of sides. The support frame 340 is formed by a structural support member disposed along the side of the pyramid shape and joined together at the ends. The structural support members define triangular side panels 380-1, 380-2, 380-3, and 380-4, and a square bottom panel (not shown). Each of the side panels 380-1, 380-2, 380-3, and 380-4 is approximately flat, but in various embodiments, some of the side panels, each part, or approximately All, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or all can be almost flat, substantially flat, substantially flat, or completely flat. The container 300 includes a dispenser 360 that is configured to dispense one or more flowable products from one or more product volumes disposed within the container 300. In the embodiment of FIG. 3A, the dispenser 360 is placed at the apex of the pyramid shape, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 360 is placed anywhere on the top, side, or bottom of the container 300. Can be done. FIG. 3B is a front view of the container 300 of FIG. 3A, including exemplary additional / alternate positions for the dispenser (shown as phantom lines), any of these positions also being optional for the container Can be applied to the side. FIG. 3C is a side view of the container 300 of FIG. 3A. FIG. 3D is an isometric view of the container 300 of FIG. 3A.

  3E is based on the container 300, except that it is based on the embodiment of FIG. 1E, the asymmetric structural support frame 340-1, the first part of the product volume 350-1b, the product volume 350. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a container 300-1, which is another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 300 of FIG. 3A, including a second portion of -1a and a dispenser 360-1. FIG. 3F includes an internal structural support frame 340-2, a product volume 350-2, and a dispenser 360-2 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a container 300-2, another embodiment of a 3A standing flexible container 300. FIG. FIG. 3G is an external structural support frame 340-3, non-integral located within and disposed within frame 340-3, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 3D illustrates a perspective view of a container 300-3, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 300 of FIG. 3A, including a typical product volume 350-3 and a dispenser 360-3.

  FIG. 4A is a front view of a stand up flexible container 400 having a structural support frame 440 having an overall triangular prism shape. In the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the prismatic shape is based on a triangle. The support frame 440 is formed by a structural support member that is disposed along the sides of the prism shape and joined together at the ends. The structural support members define a triangular top panel 480-t, rectangular side panels 480-1, 480-2, and 480-3, and a triangular bottom panel (not shown). Each of the side panels 480-1, 480-2, and 480-3 is approximately flat, but in various embodiments, some, each, or approximately all or almost all of the side panels, or Substantially all, or substantially all, or all can be almost flat, substantially flat, substantially flat, or completely flat. The container 400 includes a dispenser 460 that is configured to dispense one or more flowable products from one or more product volumes disposed within the container 400. In the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the dispenser 460 is centrally located on the top panel 480-t, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 460 can be placed anywhere on the top, side, or bottom of the container 400. Can also be arranged. FIG. 4B is a front view of the container 400 of FIG. 4A, including exemplary additional / alternate positions for the dispenser (shown as phantom lines), any of these positions also being optional for the container 400 Can be applied to the sides of FIG. 4C is a side view of the container 400 of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4D is an isometric view of the container 400 of FIG. 4A.

  FIG. 4E is based on the container 400, except that the asymmetric structural support frame 440-1, the first portion of the product volume 450-1b, the product volume 450, configured the same as the embodiment of FIG. 1E. 4A illustrates a perspective view of a container 400-1 that is another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 400 of FIG. 4A, including a second portion of -1a and a dispenser 460-1. FIG. 4F includes an internal structural support frame 440-2, a product volume 450-2, and a dispenser 460-2 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a container 400-2, another embodiment of a 4A standing flexible container 400. FIG. FIG. 4G is an external structural support frame 440-3, non-integral located within and disposed within frame 440-3, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 4B illustrates a perspective view of a container 400-3, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 400 of FIG. 4A, including a typical product volume 450-3 and a dispenser 460-3.

  FIG. 5A is a front view of a stand up flexible container 500 having a structural support frame 540 having an overall square columnar shape. In the embodiment of FIG. 5A, the prismatic shape is based on a square. The support frame 540 is formed by a structural support member that is disposed along the side of the prismatic shape and joined together at the ends. The structural support members define a square top panel 580-t, rectangular side panels 580-1, 580-2, 580-3, and 580-4, and a square bottom panel (not shown). Each of the side panels 580-1, 580-2, 580-3, and 580-4 is approximately flat, but in various embodiments, some of the side panels, each part, or approximately All, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or all can be almost flat, substantially flat, substantially flat, or completely flat. The container 500 includes a dispenser 560 that is configured to dispense one or more flowable products from one or more product volumes disposed within the container 500. In the embodiment of FIG. 5A, the dispenser 560 is centrally located on the top panel 580-t, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 560 can be located anywhere on the top, side, or bottom of the container 500. Can also be arranged. FIG. 5B is a front view of the container 500 of FIG. 5A, including exemplary additional / alternate positions for the dispenser (shown as phantom lines), any of these positions also being optional for the container 500 Can be applied to the sides of FIG. 5C is a side view of the container 500 of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5D is an isometric view of the container 500 of FIG. 5A.

  FIG. 5E is an asymmetric structural support frame 540-1, a first portion of a product volume 550-1b, a product volume 550, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of a container 500-1, which is another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 500 of FIG. 5A, including a second portion of -1a and a dispenser 560-1. FIG. 5F includes an internal structural support frame 540-2, a product volume 550-2, and a dispenser 560-2 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a container 500-2, another embodiment of a 5A standing flexible container 500. FIG. 5G is an external structural support frame 540-3, non-integral joined to and disposed within frame 540-3, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of a container 500-3, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 500 of FIG. 5A, including a typical product volume 550-3 and a dispenser 560-3.

  FIG. 6A is a front view of a stand up flexible container 600 having a structural support frame 640 having a pentagonal columnar overall shape. In the embodiment of FIG. 6A, the prismatic shape is based on a pentagon. The support frame 640 is formed by a structural support member that is disposed along a prism-shaped side and joined to each other at the ends. The structural support members include a pentagonal top panel 680-t, rectangular side panels 680-1, 680-2, 680-3, 680-4, and 680-5, and a pentagonal bottom panel (not shown). Is defined. Each of the side panels 680-1, 680-2, 680-3, and 680-5 is approximately flat, but in various embodiments, some of the side panels, parts, or approximately All, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or all can be almost flat, substantially flat, substantially flat, or completely flat. The container 600 includes a dispenser 660 that is configured to dispense one or more flowable products from one or more product volumes disposed within the container 600. In the embodiment of FIG. 6A, the dispenser 660 is located in the center of the top panel 680-t, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 660 can be located anywhere on the top, side, or bottom of the container 600. Can also be arranged. FIG. 6B is a front view of the container 600 of FIG. 6A, including exemplary additional / alternate positions for the dispenser (shown as phantom lines), any of these positions also being optional for the container 600 Can be applied to the sides of 6C is a side view of the container 600 of FIG. 6A. FIG. 6D is an isometric view of the container 600 of FIG. 6A.

  6E is an asymmetric structural support frame 640-1, first portion of product volume 650-1b, product volume 650, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1E, except based on container 600. FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a container 600-1 that is another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 600 of FIG. 6A, including a second portion of -1a and a dispenser 660-1. FIG. 6F includes an internal structural support frame 640-2, a product volume 650-2, and a dispenser 660-2 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a container 600-2, another embodiment of a 6A stand up flexible container 600. FIG. FIG. 6G is an external structural support frame 640-3, constructed in the same way as the embodiment of FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of a container 600-3, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 600 of FIG. 6A, including a typical product volume 650-3 and a dispenser 660-3.

  FIG. 7A is a front view of a stand up flexible container 700 having a structural support frame 740 having a conical overall shape. The support frame 740 is formed by a curved structural support member disposed around the base of the cone and by a straight structural support member extending linearly from the base to the apex, the structural support members being Are joined together at their ends. The structural support member defines curved, somewhat triangular side panels 780-1, 780-2, and 780-3, and a circular bottom panel (not shown). Each of the side panels 780-1, 780-2, and 780-3 is curved, but in various embodiments, some, any, or approximately all or almost all of any of the side panels, Or substantially all, or substantially all, or all can be almost flat, substantially flat, substantially flat, or completely flat. Container 700 includes a dispenser 760 that is configured to dispense one or more flowable products from one or more product volumes disposed within container 700. In the embodiment of FIG. 7A, the dispenser 760 is positioned at the apex of the conical shape, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 760 is positioned elsewhere on the top, side, or bottom of the container 700. Can be done. FIG. 7B is a front view of the container 700 of FIG. 7A. FIG. 7C is a side view of the container 700 of FIG. 7A, including exemplary additional / alternate positions for the dispenser (shown as phantom lines), any of these positions also being optional for the container 700 It can be applied to the side panel. FIG. 7D is an isometric view of the container 700 of FIG. 7A.

  FIG. 7E is an asymmetric structural support frame 740-1, a first portion of a product volume 750-1b, a product volume 750, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 7A illustrates a perspective view of container 700-1, which is another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 700 of FIG. 7A, including a second portion of -1a and a dispenser 760-1. FIG. 7F includes an internal structural support frame 740-2, a product volume 750-2, and a dispenser 760-2 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a container 700-2, another embodiment of a 7A stand up flexible container 700. FIG. FIG. 7G is an outer structural support frame 740-3, non-integral located within and disposed within frame 740-3, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 7B illustrates a perspective view of a container 700-3, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 700 of FIG. 7A, including a typical product volume 750-3 and a dispenser 760-3.

  FIG. 8A is a front view of a stand up flexible container 800 having a structural support frame 840 having a cylindrical overall shape. The support frame 840 is formed by curved structural support members disposed around the top and bottom of the cylinder and by linear structural support members extending linearly from the top to the bottom, the structural support members being Are joined together at their ends. The structural support members include a circular top panel 880-t, curved and somewhat rectangular side panels 880-1, 880-2, 880-3, and 880-4, and a circular bottom panel (not shown). Is defined. Each of the side panels 880-1, 880-2, 880-3, and 880-4 is curved, but in various embodiments, some, any, or approximately all of any of the side panels, Or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or all can be almost flat, substantially flat, substantially flat, or completely flat. The container 800 includes a dispenser 860 that is configured to dispense one or more flowable products from one or more product volumes disposed within the container 800. In the embodiment of FIG. 8A, the dispenser 860 is located in the center of the top panel 880-t, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 860 can be placed anywhere on the top, side, or bottom of the container 800. Can also be arranged. FIG. 8B is a front view of the container 800 of FIG. 8A, including exemplary additional / alternative positions for the dispenser (shown as phantom lines), any of these positions also being optional for the container 800 It can be applied to the side panel. FIG. 8C is a side view of the container 800 of FIG. 8A. FIG. 8D is an isometric view of the container 800 of FIG. 8A.

  FIG. 8E is an asymmetric structural support frame 840-1, a first portion of a product volume 850-1b, a product volume 850 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 8A illustrates a perspective view of container 800-1, which is another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 800 of FIG. 8A, including a second portion of -1a and a dispenser 860-1. FIG. 8F includes an internal structural support frame 840-2, a product volume 850-2, and a dispenser 860-2 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a container 800-2, another embodiment of an 8A stand up flexible container 800. FIG. FIG. 8G is an external structural support frame 840-3, non-integral joined to and disposed within frame 840-3, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 8B illustrates a perspective view of container 800-3, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 800 of FIG. 8A, including a typical product volume 850-3 and a dispenser 860-3.

  In additional embodiments, any upstanding flexible container with a structural support frame as disclosed herein can be any type of polyhedron, any type of quasi-rectangular column, and (right column and It can be configured to have an overall shape corresponding to any other known three-dimensional shape, including any type of prism (including equilateral right prisms).

  FIG. 9A is a top view of one embodiment of a stand-alone flexible container 900 having a square overall shape. FIG. 9B is an end view of the flexible container 900 of FIG. 9A. The container 900 is on a horizontal support surface 901.

  In FIG. 9B, coordinate system 910 provides a reference line for referring to the direction of the figure. The coordinate system 910 is a three-dimensional Cartesian coordinate system having an X axis, a Y axis, and a Z axis. The X axis and the Z axis are parallel to the horizontal support surface 901, and the Y axis is perpendicular to the horizontal support surface 901.

  FIG. 9A also includes other baselines for referencing directions and positions with respect to the container 100. A lateral center line 911 runs parallel to the X axis. The XY plane of the horizontal center line 911 divides the container 100 into a front half and a rear half. The XZ plane of the lateral centerline 911 divides the container 100 into an upper half and a lower half. A vertical center line 914 runs parallel to the Y axis. The YZ plane of the longitudinal centerline 914 divides the container 900 into a left half and a right half. The third center line 917 runs parallel to the Z axis. The horizontal center line 911, the vertical center line 914, and the third center line 917 all intersect at the center of the container 900. These terms for orientation, orientation, measurements, and placement in the embodiment of FIGS. 9A-9B are the same as similarly numbered terms in the embodiment of FIGS.

  The container 900 includes a top 904, a center 906, and a bottom 908, a front 902-1, a back 902-2, and left and right sides 909. In the embodiment of FIGS. 9A-9B, the upper and lower halves of the container are joined together with a seal 929 that extends to the outer periphery of the container 900. The bottom of the container 900 is configured similarly to the top of the container 900.

  Container 900 includes a structural support frame 940, a product volume 950, a dispenser 960, a top panel 980-t, and a bottom panel (not shown). A portion of the top panel 980-t is shown removed to show the product volume 950. Product volume 950 is configured to contain one or more flowable products. The dispenser 960 allows the container 900 to dispense these flowable products from the product volume 950 to the environment outside the container 900 via the flow path 959 and then the dispenser 960. The structural support frame 940 supports the mass of the flowable product within the product volume 950. The top panel 980-t and the bottom panel are relatively flat surfaces that cover the product volume 950 and are suitable for displaying any kind of indicia.

  The structural support frame 940 is formed by a plurality of structural support members. The structural support frame 940 includes front structural support members 943-1 and 943-2, intermediate structural support members 945-1, 945-2, 945-3, and 945-4, and a back structural support member 947-. 1 and 947-2. Overall, each of the structural support members of the container 900 is oriented horizontally. And, each of the structural support members of the container 900 has a substantially constant cross-sectional area along their length, but in various embodiments, this cross-sectional area can vary.

  Upper structural support members 943-1, 945-1, 945-2, and 947-1 are disposed on the upper portion of the central portion 906 and on the top portion 904, and lower structural support members 943-2, 945-4, 945-3 and 947-2 are arranged at the lower part of the center part 906 and at the bottom part 908. Upper structural support members 943-1, 945-1, 945-2, and 947-1 are located above lower structural support members 943-2, 945-4, 945-3, and 947-2, respectively. And arranged adjacent to each other.

  In various embodiments, one or more adjacent upper and lower structural support members are present as long as there is a contact gap for the flow path 959 between the structural support members 943-1 and 943-2. In a relatively small part and / or in one or more relatively large parts, part of their length, or each part, or approximately all, almost all, substantially all, or almost all, or all Along each other. In the embodiment of FIGS. 9A-9B, the upper and lower structural support members are not directly connected to each other. However, in various alternative embodiments, adjacent upper and lower structural support members may be part of their full length, or portions, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or All along can be directly connected and / or joined together.

  The ends of the structural support members 943-1, 945-2, 947-1, and 945-1 are joined together to form a top square that is outside the product volume 950 and surrounds the product volume 950. And the ends of structural support members 943-2, 945-3, 947-2, and 945-4 are similarly outside the product volume 950 to form a bottom square surrounding the product volume 950. Are joined together. In the structural support frame 940, the ends of the structural support members that are joined together are directly connected at the periphery of their walls. However, in various alternative embodiments, any of the structural support members of the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9B can be joined together in any manner described herein or known in the art. .

  In an alternative embodiment of the structural support frame 940, adjacent structural support members may be combined into a single structural support member, and the combined structural support members represent the surrogate of adjacent structural support members. The functions and connections can be effectively served as described herein. In other alternative embodiments of the structural support frame 940, one or more additional structural support members can be added to the structural support member of the structural support frame 940, with the expanded structural support frame being structural. The proxy for the support frame 940 can be effectively served as its function and connections are described herein.

  FIG. 9C shows the stand-alone possibility of FIG. 1A including the asymmetric structural indicating frame 940-1, the first part of the product volume 950-1b, the second part of the product volume 950-1a, and the dispenser 960-1. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a container 900-1, which is another embodiment of a flexible container 900. FIG. The embodiment of FIG. 9C is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 9A with similarly numbered items configured similarly, except that the frame 940-1 is around approximately half of the container 900-1. Extends directly to support the first part 950-1b of the product volume located inside the frame 940-1 and to the second part of the product volume 950-1a located outside the frame 940-1. Support indirectly. In various embodiments, any of the stand-alone flexible containers of the present disclosure may be similarly modified, with the frame extending around the container part (s) and / or the frame of the container One or more product volume portions that are asymmetric with respect to one or more centerlines and / or one or more product volume portion (s) of the container are located outside the frame and / or one or more product volumes of the container The part (s) are indirectly supported by the frame.

  FIG. 9D is a container 900-2, which is another embodiment of the stand-alone flexible container 900 of FIG. 9A, including an internal structural support frame 940-2, a product volume 950-2, and a dispenser 960-2. The perspective view of is illustrated. The embodiment of FIG. 9D is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 9A, with like-numbered items configured the same, except that the frame 940-2 is inside the product volume 950-2. . In various embodiments, the stand-up flexible container of the present disclosure is similarly modified to be part of the frame (s) or all (part of any structural support member (s) that form the frame). ) Or all) is roughly enclosed by one or more product volumes, approximately, substantially, substantially, or completely.

  FIG. 9E illustrates a container 900-3, another embodiment of the stand up flexible container 900 of FIG. 9A, including an external structural support frame 940-3, a product volume 950-3, and a dispenser 960-3. A perspective view is illustrated. The embodiment of FIG. 9E is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 9A, with like numbered items configured the same, except that the product volume 950-3 is integrally connected to the frame 940-3. Not made (ie not made simultaneously from the same web of flexible container), the product volume 950-3 is made separately and then connected to the frame 940-3. Product volume 950-3 may be joined to the frame in any convenient manner disclosed herein and known in the art. In the embodiment of FIG. 9E, the product volume 950-3 is disposed within the frame 940-3, but the product volume 950-3 has a smaller volume and shape compared to the product volume 950 of FIG. 9A. Are slightly different, but these differences are provided to illustrate the relationship between the product volume 950-3 and the frame 940-3 and are not essential. In various embodiments, any stand-up flexible container of the present disclosure can be similarly modified so that one or more of the product volumes are not integrally connected to the frame.

  10A-11E show embodiments of stand-alone flexible containers (not standing containers) having various overall shapes. Any of the embodiments of FIGS. 10A-11E may be configured in accordance with any of the embodiments disclosed herein, including the embodiments of FIGS. 9A-9E. Any of the elements of the embodiment of FIGS. 10A-11E (eg, structural support frame, structural support member, panel, dispenser, etc.) may be configured in accordance with any of the embodiments disclosed herein. While each of the embodiments of FIGS. 10A-11E shows a container with one dispenser, in various embodiments, each container comprises a plurality of dispensers in accordance with any of the embodiments described herein. be able to. 10A-11E, some, each, or approximately all, or nearly all, or substantially all, or substantially all, or all of the panels in the embodiment of FIGS. 10A-11E display any type of indicia. It is suitable for. Each of the top and bottom panels in the embodiment of FIGS. 10A-11E is configured to be an unstructured panel that covers a product volume disposed within a flexible container, but in various embodiments, ( One or more of any kind of decorative or structural elements (such as ribs protruding from the outer surface) may be part, each, or approximately all or almost all or substantially any of these panels. All, almost all, or all can be joined. For clarity, not all structural details of these flexible containers are shown in FIGS. 10A-11E, but any of the embodiments of FIGS. 10A-11E may be disclosed herein. It can be configured to include any structure or characteristic for the flexible container.

  FIG. 10A is a top view of one embodiment of a stand-alone flexible container 1000 (not a stand-up flexible container) having a product volume 1050 and an overall triangular shape. However, in various embodiments, the stand-alone flexible container can have a polygonal overall shape with any number of sides. The support frame 1040 is formed by a structural support member disposed along a triangular side and joined together at the ends. The structural support member defines a triangular top panel 1080-t and a triangular bottom panel (not shown). The top panel 1080-t and the bottom panel are approximately flat, but in various embodiments, some, each, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or any of the side panels, or Substantially all or all can be almost flat, substantially flat, substantially flat, or completely flat. The container 1000 includes a dispenser 1060 that is configured to dispense one or more flowable products from one or more product volumes disposed within the container 1000. In the embodiment of FIG. 10A, the dispenser 1060 is located in the center of the front, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 1060 is located anywhere on the top, side, or bottom of the container 1000. obtain. FIG. 10A includes exemplary additional / alternate locations for dispensers (shown as phantom lines). FIG. 10B is an end view of the flexible container 1000 of FIG. 10B on a horizontal support surface 1001.

  FIG. 10C is an asymmetric structural support frame 1040-1, a first part of the product volume 1050-1b, a product volume 1050, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of container 1000-1, which is another embodiment of the stand-alone flexible container 1000 of FIG. 10A, including a second portion of -1a and a dispenser 1060-1. FIG. 10D includes an internal structural support frame 1040-2, product volume 1050-2, and dispenser 1060-2 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 9D, except based on container 1000. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a container 1000-2, another embodiment of a 10A stand-alone flexible container 1000. FIG. FIG. 10E is based on the container 1000, except that it is constructed in the same manner as the embodiment of FIG. 9E, joined to the external structural support frame 1040-3, frame 1040-3, and a non-integral piece disposed therein. 10B illustrates a perspective view of a container 1000-3, another embodiment of the stand-alone flexible container 1000 of FIG.

  FIG. 11A is a top view of one embodiment of a stand-alone flexible container 1100 (not a stand-up flexible container) having a product volume 1150 and a circular overall shape. The support frame 1140 is formed by a structural support member disposed on a circular circumference and joined together at the ends. The structural support member defines a circular top panel 1180-t and a circular bottom panel (not shown). The top panel 1180-t and the bottom panel are approximately flat, but in various embodiments, some, each, or approximately all, or almost all, or substantially all, or any of the side panels, or Substantially all or all can be almost flat, substantially flat, substantially flat, or completely flat. Container 1100 includes a dispenser 1160 that is configured to dispense one or more flowable products from one or more product volumes disposed within container 1100. In the embodiment of FIG. 11A, the dispenser 1160 is centered in the front, but in various alternative embodiments, the dispenser 1160 is located anywhere on the top, side, or bottom of the container 1100. obtain. FIG. 11A includes exemplary additional / alternate locations for dispensers (shown as phantom lines). FIG. 11B illustrates an end view of the flexible container 1100 of FIG. 10B on a horizontal support surface 1101.

  FIG. 11C is an asymmetric structural support frame 1140-1, a first part of the product volume 1150-1b, a product volume 1150, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 9C, except based on the container 1100. FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective view of a container 1100-1, another embodiment of the stand-alone flexible container 1100 of FIG. 11A, including a second portion of -1a and a dispenser 1160-1. FIG. 11D includes an internal structural support frame 1140-2, product volume 1150-2, and dispenser 1160-2 configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 9D, except based on container 1100. FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a container 1100-2, another embodiment of an 11A standalone flexible container 1100. FIG. 11E is an external structural support frame 1140-3, non-integral located within and disposed within frame 1140-3, configured similar to the embodiment of FIG. 9E, except based on container 1100. FIG. 11B illustrates a perspective view of container 1100-3, another embodiment of the stand-alone flexible container 1100 of FIG. 11A, including a typical product volume 1150-3 and a dispenser 1160-3.

  In additional embodiments, any stand-alone container with a structural support frame as disclosed herein is configured to have an overall shape corresponding to any other known three-dimensional shape. obtain. For example, any stand-alone container with a structural support frame as disclosed herein can be a rectangle (when viewed from the top view), a polygon (with any number of sides), an egg It may be configured to have an overall shape corresponding to a shape, oval, star, or any other shape, or any combination thereof.

  12A-14C show various exemplary dispensers. These dispensers can be used with the flexible containers disclosed herein. FIG. 12A illustrates an isometric view of a push-pull dispenser 1260-a. FIG. 12B illustrates an isometric view of a dispenser with a push-up cap 1260-b. FIG. 12C illustrates an isometric view of a dispenser with a threaded cap 1260-c. FIG. 12D illustrates an isometric view of the rotatable dispenser 1260-d. FIG. 12E illustrates an isometric view of a nozzle-type dispenser with a cap 1260-d. FIG. 13A illustrates an isometric view of a straw dispenser 1360-a. FIG. 13B illustrates an isometric view of a straw dispenser with a lid 1360-b. FIG. 13C illustrates an isometric view of a flip-up straw dispenser 1360-c. FIG. 13D illustrates an isometric view of a straw dispenser with an occlusal valve 1360-d. FIG. 14A illustrates an isometric view of a pump dispenser 1460-a, which may be a forming pump type dispenser in various embodiments. FIG. 14B illustrates an isometric view of a pump spray dispenser 1460-b. FIG. 14C illustrates an isometric view of the trigger spray dispenser 1460-c.

  15A-15I and 18A-23L illustrate various embodiments of a container having a product volume and at least one standoff structure coupled with a portion of the product volume. The product volume of each of these containers is generally defined by at least one side. At least one standoff structure in each of these containers is at least partially connected to at least one side of the product volume and is at least partially in the same plane. In each embodiment, at least one side of the product volume to which the standoff structure is coupled is at least partially free of the standoff structure. 30-90% of the at least one side of the product volume to which the at least one standoff structure is coupled may not include at least one standoff structure. More specifically, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80% of at least one side of the product volume to which the at least one standoff structure is connected, Or, in some cases, at least 90% may not include at least one standoff structure. These containers also include a bottom that includes a bottom surface. At least a portion of the bottom surface is configured to contact the horizontal support surface. Each of the at least one standoff structure has a minimum width of at least 5 mm and is positioned at a minimum height of at least 3-5 mm relative to the horizontal support surface.

  When configured in this manner, for example, when the container is placed near or in contact with one or more other objects (eg, other containers), or positioned within a containment or enclosure structure (For example, a shopping cart or shopping bag, or a transport box in a distribution center, for example) or when falling from a high position on a horizontal surface (for example, falling into a shopping cart or falling from a store shelf to the floor) Positioned (e.g., printed) from the container, especially the product volume, and / or the top and / or adjacent to it, from possible damage such as abrasion, plastic deformation, rupture, obscuration, abrasion, and cuts. And / or the contents of the container can be protected. The at least one standoff structure also provides, in at least some embodiments, a high gripping surface or handle for more secure and comfortable handling by the container user.

  FIG. 15A shows a first product container 1500 that includes a freestanding product volume 1502 and a standoff structure 1504 coupled thereto. A free standing product volume 1502 is defined by a first side 1506, a second side (not shown) opposite the first side 1506, a top 1508, and a bottom 1510. As shown in FIG. 15A, the first side 1506 has an outer surface 1512 and the bottom 110 includes a bottom surface 1514 configured to contact the horizontal support surface 1516, which in this view is the horizontal support surface 1516. Where in contact is not shown. Standoff structure 1504 is a substantially truncated C-shaped inflatable structure that can be filled with one or more inflatable materials. The stand-off structure 1504 is connected to the first side portion 1506, is in the same plane, and extends or protrudes outward from the first side portion 1506. Standoff structure 1504 includes a first end 1518, a second end 1520, and a central portion 1522 disposed between first end 1518 and second end 1520. The first end 1518 is coupled to the outer surface 1512 near or at the top 1508 of the product volume 1502, and the second end 1520 is coupled to the outer surface 1512 near or at the bottom 1510 of the product volume 1502. Central portion 1522 is partially connected to outer surface 1512 between top portion 1508 and bottom portion 1510 of product volume 1502. In this embodiment, at least a portion of the central portion 1522 is not coupled to the outer surface 1512 such that a gap or space is formed between the product volume 1502 and the standoff structure 1504. This void or space may be used by a user of the container 1500 to retrieve, hold, and / or move the container 1500.

  For example, when it is desired to present a number of adjacent product containers 1500 as a set or to store or transport a set of containers more space-efficiently, the product containers 1500 are more closely packed and even selected from each other Standoff structures 1504 of adjacent product containers 1500 are alternating or offset from each other and in complementary positions so that they can be interconnected or complementary standoff structures. The object 1504 is used as an engaging means for the product container 1500. For example, as shown in FIGS. 18A-20L, the first product container 1500a may contain a first personal hygiene product such as a shampoo, and the second product container 1500b contains a second personal hygiene product such as a conditioner. The standoff structure 1504a and the standoff structure 1504b may be interconnected or nested with each other, and the first product container 1500a and the second product container 1500b may be selectively fixed to each other. The series of product containers need not be limited to two, and additional product containers 1500c,. . . If it is desired to connect 1500n, these may be selectively secured to one or more of the other product containers 1500a, 1500b. A number of product containers 1500a, 1500b, 1500c,. . . 1500n need not be fixed linearly to each other, but instead may be fixed to each other so that the connected product containers form a triangular or other polygonal dispense. Alternatively, the gap and standoff structure 1504 for a given product container may be configured to connect only with that of an adjacent product container that is different, eg, disposed in an inverted orientation. As shown in FIG. 21, for example, when the right side is configured in the top or bottom configuration, the standoff structure 1504a of the product container 1500a is adjacent, inverted (ie, the top is the bottom) product. The container 1500b may be selectively interconnected with the standoff structure 1504b.

  As shown in FIG. 15A, approximately 70-80% of the first side 1506, particularly the outer surface 1512, does not have a standoff structure 1504. In other words, the standoff structure 1504 covers or overlaps only the first side 1506 and, more specifically, a small portion of the outer surface 1512. Thus, an indicia such as a label (which may have an indicia printed on the top) is attached thereto and / or an indicia is printed thereon and / or an indicia thereon So that the indicia can be seen through the non-opaque outer surface 1512, such as any translucent or transparent properties (the indicia can then be seen through the decorative region A marking area 1524, which can be sized, on another inner surface or another material, such as a layer. Since the standoff structure 1504 extends outside the first side 1506 and thus the decoration area 1524, the standoff structure 1504 is configured to protect the decoration area 1524 and prevent damage thereto. The container 1500 also includes a dispenser 1526 configured to dispense one or more flowable products provided within the product volume 1502. For this purpose, the dispenser 1526 includes a fluid dispenser opening 1528 and the fluid dispensing path 1530 is in fluid communication with the dispenser opening 1528 and the interior of the product volume 1502. As shown in FIG. 15A, the dispenser 1526 is disposed on the top 1508 of the product volume 1502.

  Further, in the embodiment of FIG. 15a, the decorative region 1524 includes a 2D graphic center 1550 of the first side 1506 that is surrounded by a 2D graphic center portion 1551 that does not include a standoff structure. The central portion of the 2D figure that does not include the standoff structure may include at least 5% to 20% of the area of the first side 1506.

  The center of a two-dimensional or 2D figure, which may be referred to as the center of gravity of the region in some cases, simply put, the clipped cardboard of that region (assuming uniform density and uniform gravity field) is the tip of the pencil It is a point that can be perfectly balanced above. Formally, a 2D figure center of a plan view or two-dimensional shape is the arithmetic average (“average value”) position of all points in the region of that shape. In containers where the side, such as the first side 1506, is not flat in a two-dimensional plane, the side 2D graphic center is such that the projected plane is substantially parallel to the overall width and length of the side. Or the projected plane corresponds to a 2D projection of the side (eg, 1506) onto a surface that is oriented to produce a projection of the maximum side area (or approximately maximum area). Alternatively, a side such as side 1506 may be separated from the container and, wherever possible, in the portion where the projection of the resulting shape onto a flattened plane is used to determine the corresponding 2D graphic center. Good flattening. Or, if virtually completed, the virtual representation of the side can be flattened as well as possible. During the virtual flattening run, the materials and / or gauges may be substantially changed so that the virtual sides can be very flexible during the flattening run.

  The 2D figure center portion includes the 2D figure center portion and includes any intermediate value including an integer value of about 5% to 20% and 5 to 20% of the area of the first side. In some embodiments, the 2D graphic center portion does not include a standoff structure, while at least one standoff structure is coupled to a first side outside the 2D graphic center. The 2D figure center part may take various shapes as long as this part is continuous and includes the 2D figure center part.

  In other embodiments, the container 1500 may include different sized and / or shaped product volumes 1502 and / or more standoff structures 1504. For example, the bottom 1510 can have a gusset region located at the bottom and / or top of the container 1500. Alternatively or additionally, the standoff structure 1504 may have different sizes and / or shapes, may cover more and / or less areas, and / or one of the product volumes 1502. You may connect with the above different parts (for example, 2nd side part, the upper part 1508, etc.). For example, as shown in FIG. 22, the standoff structure 1504 may be coupled to an upper portion 1508 in the gusset region of the product container 1500. As another example, as shown in FIG. 23, two standoff structures 1504 may be coupled to the bottom 1510 of the gusset region of the product container 1500.

  In some embodiments, the overall central portion 1522 may be coupled to the outer surface 1512 such that no gap or space is formed between the product volume 1502 and the standoff structure 1504. In some embodiments, the central portion 1512 may span or extend the entire length and / or width of the product volume 1504. In some embodiments, the central portion 1522 can be coupled to the outer surface 1512 at more than two locations (eg, three, four, five, etc. locations). In another embodiment, the dispenser 1526 may be located elsewhere, for example on the first side 1506, the second side, or the bottom 1510 of the product volume 1502.

  FIG. 15B illustrates a second flexible container similar to the flexible container 1500 described above, which includes a standoff structure 1604 coupled to a free-standing product volume 1502. As in the flexible container 1500 described above, the flexible container 1600 includes a dispenser 1526 configured to dispense one or more flowable products provided in the product volume 1502 as described above. Including. Like the standoff structure 1504, the standoff structure 1604 can be filled with one or more inflatable materials. However, unlike the standoff structure 1504, the standoff structure 1604 is substantially D-shaped. The standoff structure 1604 is coupled to and is flush with the first side 1506 of the product volume 1502 and extends or projects outwardly therefrom. Standoff structure 1604 includes an upper portion 1604a, a lower portion 1604b, and two central portions 1604c, 1604d disposed therebetween. The upper portion 1604a is connected to the outer surface 1512 at or near the top 1508 of the product volume 1502, the lower portion 1604b is connected to the outer surface 1512 at or near the bottom 1510 of the product volume 1502, and the central portions 1604c, 1604d are , Respectively, are connected to the outer surface 1512 at or around the opposing peripheral edge of the first side 1506. Accordingly, the standoff structure extends significantly from a substantial portion of the outer surface 1512 of the product volume 1502. Still, as shown in FIG. 15B, the first side 1506, particularly approximately 50-60% of the outer surface 1512, does not include the standoff structure 1604. In other words, the standoff structure 1604 covers or overlaps approximately 40% to 50% of the first side 1506 and more specifically the outer surface 1512. Accordingly, the container 1600 has a size adjustable decorative area 1624 for indicia. Because the standoff structure 1604 extends outside and surrounds the decorative area 1624, the standoff structure 1604 is configured to protect the decorative area 1624 and prevent damage thereto.

  In other embodiments, the container 1600 may include different sized and / or shaped product volumes 1502 and / or additional standoff structures 1604. Alternatively or additionally, the standoff structure 1604 may have different sizes and / or shapes and / or may be coupled to one or more different portions of the product volume 1502 (eg, the first 2 sides, top 1508, etc.). Referring again to FIGS. 18A-20L, the standoff structure 1604 can have, for example, a circular, oval, elliptical, rectangular, elongated, or irregular shape.

  FIG. 15C illustrates a third flexible container 1700 similar to the flexible containers 1500, 1600 described above, which includes a plurality of standoff structures 1704a-1704d coupled to a free-standing product volume 1502. Is included. Like the flexible containers 1500, 1600 described above, the flexible container 1700 includes a dispenser 1526, which dispenses one or more flowable products provided within the product volume 1502, as described above. Configured as follows. Like the standoff structure 1504, one or more of the standoff structures 1704a-1704d may be filled with one or more inflatable materials. Each of the standoff structures 1704d-1704d is connected to the first side 1506 of the product volume 1502, is coplanar, and extends or projects outward therefrom. The standoff structures 1704a, 1704c are oriented substantially longitudinally along or near the periphery of the outer surface 1512 of the product volume 1502. The standoff structures 1704b, 1704d are oriented substantially laterally along or near the periphery of the outer surface 1512 of the product volume 1502, and the standoff structure 1704b is adjacent to the top 1508 of the product volume 1502. Alternatively, the standoff structure 1704d is positioned adjacent to or proximate the bottom 1510 of the product volume 1502. As shown in FIG. 15C, the first side 1506, in particular approximately 60% to 70% of the outer surface 1512, does not include standoff structures 1704a-1704d. In other words, the standoff structures 1704a-1704d together cover or overlap approximately 30-40% of the first side 1506, and more specifically the outer surface 1512. Accordingly, the container 1700 has a sized adjustable area 1724 for indicia printed thereon. As shown in FIG. 15C, the standoff structures 1704a-1704d extend outside the decorative region 1724 and function together to substantially surround the decorative region 1724. When configured in this manner, the standoff structures 1704a-1704d are configured to protect the decorative region 1724 and prevent damage thereto. In other embodiments, the container 1700 may include different sized and / or shaped product volumes 1502 and / or more or fewer standoff structures 1704. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the standoff structures 1704 may have different sizes and / or shapes and / or one or more different portions of the product volume 1502 (eg, second side, top 1508). Etc.). In another embodiment, the dispenser 1526 can be located on the first side 1506, the second side, or the bottom 1510 of the product volume 1502.

  FIG. 15D illustrates a fourth flexible container 1800 that includes a freestanding product volume 1802 and a plurality of standoff structures 1804a-1804e coupled to the product volume 1802. Overall, the self-supporting product volume 1802 has a triangular prism shape. More specifically, the self-supporting product volume 1802 includes a first rectangular side 1806a, a second rectangular side 1806b continuous with the first side 1806a, and a second continuous side 1806a, 1806b. One triangular side 1806c, a second triangular side (not shown), an upper edge 1806d formed by the intersection of these four sides, and a bottom (not shown). As shown in FIG. 15D, each of the first side portion 1806a and the second side portion 1806b has an outer surface 1812. Although not described herein, the bottom of the product volume 1802 includes a bottom surface configured to contact a horizontal support surface. Each of the stand-off structures 1804a to 1804e has a generally irregular shape. One or more of the standoff structures 1804-1804e can be filled with one or more inflatable materials. Standoff structures 1804a-1804c are generally connected to, are flush with, and extend outwardly or protrude from the outer surface 1812 of the first side 1806a of the product volume 1802. Standoff structures 1804d and 1804e are coupled to, are flush with, and extend or protrude outwardly from the outer surface 1812 of the second side 1806b of the product volume 1802. As shown in FIG. 15D, approximately 50 to 60% of the first side 1806a to which the standoff structures 1804a to 1804c are connected does not include the standoff structure, and the standoff structures 1804d and 1804e are Approximately 50-60% of the connected second side 1806b does not include a standoff structure. In other words, both standoff structures 1804a-1804c cover or overlap approximately 40-50% of the first side 1806a, and both standoff structures 1804d, 1804e are second side 1806b. 40% to 50% of or overlap with this. Accordingly, the container 1800 has one decorative area 1824 located on the first side 1806a and a sized adjustable area 1824 for printing indicia on another decorative area 1824 located on the second side 1806b. . As shown in FIG. 15D, the standoff structures 1804 a to 1804 e extend outside the decorative region 1824. When configured in this way, the standoff structures 1804a-1804e are configured to protect the decorative region 1824 and prevent damage thereto. In other embodiments, the container 1800 may include different sized and / or shaped product volumes 1802 and / or more or fewer standoff structures 1804. Alternatively or in addition, one or more of the standoff structures 1804 may have different sizes and / or shapes (eg, rectangular) and / or one or more different portions of the product volume 1802 (eg, , Third side 1806c, etc.).

  FIG. 15E illustrates a fifth flexible container 1900 that includes a freestanding product volume 1902 and a plurality of standoff structures 1904a, 1904b coupled to the product volume 1902. FIG. Overall, the free standing product volume 1902 has a cylindrical shape. More specifically, the free standing product volume 1902 is defined by a side or peripheral edge 1906 extending between a top 1908 and a bottom (not shown). As shown in FIG. 15E, the side 1906 has an outer surface 1912. Although not described herein, the bottom of product volume 1902 includes a bottom surface configured to contact a horizontal support surface. Each of the standoff structures 1904a, 1904b has a cylindrical shape such as a product volume 1902 and can be filled with one or more inflatable materials. The stand-off structures 1904a, 1904b are connected to and are flush with the outer surface 1912 of the first side 1906, and extend outwardly or protrude along the outer surface from here. Standoff structure 1904a is coupled to outer surface 1912 at or near the top 1908 of product volume 1902. Standoff structure 1904b is coupled to outer surface 1912 at or near the bottom of product volume 1902. As shown in FIG. 15E, approximately 80-90% of the side 1906 does not include standoff structures 1904a, 1904b. In other words, both the standoff structures 1904a, 1904b cover or overlap with only approximately 10% to 20% of the side 1906. Both standoff structures 1904, 1904b thus define a sized adjustable area 1924 for printing indicia. Since the standoff structures 1904a, 1904b extend outside the decorative region 1924, the standoff structures 1904a, 1904b are configured to protect the decorative region 1924 and prevent damage thereto. In other embodiments, the container 1900 may include differently sized and / or shaped product volumes 1902 and / or more or fewer standoff structures 1904. Alternatively or in addition, one or more of the standoff structures 1904 may have different sizes and / or shapes and / or one or more various portions of the product volume 1902 (eg, the upper portion 1908). Etc.).

  FIG. 15F illustrates a sixth flexible container 2000 that includes a free standing product volume 2002 and a plurality of standoff structures 2004a-2004d coupled to the product volume 2002. FIG. The self-supporting product volume 2002 has a substantially rectangular shape. More specifically, the self-supporting product volume 2002 includes a first rectangular side 2006a, a second rectangular side 2006b, a third rectangular side edge 2006c opposite to the first side 2006a, It is defined by a fourth rectangular side 2006d opposite the second side 2006b, a top 2008, and a bottom 2010. Each of the side portions 2006 a to 2006 d, 2008, and 2010 has an outer surface 2012. Each of the standoff structures 2004a-2004d has a substantially rectangular shape and can be filled with one or more inflatable materials. The stand-off structure 2004a is connected to and is flush with the outer surface 2012 of the first side 2006a, and extends or projects outward from the stand-off structure 2004b. The stand-off structure 2004c is connected to the outer surface 2012 of the third side portion 2006c and is flush with the outer surface 2012. Extending or projecting, the standoff structure 2004d is coupled to and coplanar with the outer surface 2012 of the fourth side 2006d and extends or projects outward therefrom. Each of the standoff structures 2004a to 2004d is connected at or near the upper part 2008 of the product volume 2002. Accordingly, the standoff structures 2004a-2004d are configured to prevent damage to the top 2008 (eg, where the dispenser may be located), particularly when the container 200 falls. As shown in FIG. 15F, approximately 70-80% of each of the side portions 2006a-2006d to which the standoff structures 2004a-2004d are coupled, respectively, does not include a corresponding standoff structure coupled thereto. . Accordingly, each of the side portions 2006a to 2006d has a size-adjustable decoration area 2024 for printing indicia. Because the standoff structures 2004a-2004d extend outside these decorative areas 2024, the standoff structures 2004a-2004d are configured to protect the decorative areas 2024 and prevent damage thereto.

  In other embodiments, the container 2000 may include different sized and / or shaped product volumes 2002 and / or more or fewer standoff structures 2004. For example, one or more of the side portions 2006a-2006d may not have a standoff structure 2004 coupled thereto. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the standoff structures 2004 may have different sizes and / or shapes and / or may be coupled to one or more different portions of the product volume 2002. (E.g., bottom 2010).

  FIG. 15G illustrates a seventh flexible container 2100 that includes a self-supporting product volume 2102 and a plurality of standoff structures 2104 a, 2104 b, 2104 c coupled to the product volume 2102. The free-standing product volume 2102 has a three-dimensional triangle. More specifically, the first triangular side 2106a, the second triangular side 2106b adjacent to the first side, the third triangular side adjacent to the first side 2106a and the third side 2106b (not shown). , And the bottom (also not shown). The third side converges at the apex or corner 2107 and the edge 2109 is defined between each adjacent side. Each of these sides has an outer surface 2112. Standoff structures 2104a, 2104b, 2104c are coupled to the sides of the product volume 2102 so that the standoff structure extends beyond or covers the apex 2107 and the edge 2109. Configured. In particular, a part of the stand-off structure 2104a is connected to and is flush with the outer surface 2112 of the first side 2106a, and extends or protrudes outward therefrom, and a part of the stand-off structure 2104a is The edge 2109 is covered or overlapped with the edge 2109 between the parts 2106a and 2106b, and a part of the stand-off structure is connected to the outer surface of the second side part 2106b and is flush therewith, Extends or protrudes from the outside. Similarly, a portion of the stand-off structure 2104b is connected to and is flush with the outer surface 2112 of the third side (not shown), and extends or projects outward from the same, and is part of the stand-off structure 2104a. Part covers or overlaps the edge 2109 between the side part 2106 and the third side part, and a part of the standoff structure 2104b is connected to the outer surface 2112 of the first side part 2106a. , Which is coplanar and extends or projects outwardly therefrom. Similarly, a portion of the stand-off structure 2104c is coupled to and is flush with an outer surface 2112 of a third side (not shown), and extends or protrudes outward from this, A portion covers or overlaps the edge 2109 between the second side and the third side, and a part of the stand-off structure 2104b is connected to the outer surface 2112 of the first side 2106a And is coplanar and extends or projects outwardly therefrom. By covering vertex 2107 and edge 2109 in this manner, standoff structures 2104a-2104c are configured to prevent damage to and / or caused by vertex 2107 and edge 2109. As shown in FIG. 15G, approximately 80-90% of each side of the product volume 2102 to which the standoff structure 2104a, 2104b, 2104c is connected does not include the standoff structure connected thereto. Accordingly, each of the sides has a size adjustable decorative area 2124 for printing indicia. Since the standoff structures 2104a, 2104b, 2104c extend outside these decorative areas 2124, the standoff structures 2104a, 2104b, 2104c are configured to protect or prevent damage to the decorative areas 2124. .

  In other embodiments, the container 2100 may include product volumes 2102 of different sizes and / or shapes, and one or more or less of the standoff structure 2104 and / or the standoff structure 2004. One or more may have different sizes and / or shapes (eg, circular). For example, one or more of the sides of the product volume 2102 may not have a standoff structure 2104 coupled thereto. In embodiments where the product volume 2102 has a different shape (eg, a rectangle), the standoff structure 2104 may be reconfigured to cover the apex and / or edge of the differently shaped product volume. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the standoff structures 2104 may be coupled to one or more different portions of the product volume 2102. For example, one or more of the standoff structures 2104 may be directly coupled to the apex 2107 and / or one or more edges 2109. As another example, one or more of the standoff structures 2104 may be positioned proximate to the apex 2007 and / or one of the edges 2009 rather than covering it.

  FIG. 15H illustrates a free standing product volume 2202, a standoff structure 2204 coupled to the free standing product volume 2202, and a dispenser configured to dispense one or more flowable products provided within the product volume 2202. The eighth flexible container 2200 including 2226 is illustrated. Product volume 2202 is defined by at least an associated portion, a front portion 2206, and a bottom portion 2210. The front portion 2206 has an outer surface 2212 and the bottom portion 2210 has a bottom surface 2214 configured to contact the horizontal surface 2216. The dispenser 2226 is located at or near the bottom 2210 of the product volume. The standoff structure 2204 has a generally rectangular shape and can be filled with one or more inflatable materials. As shown in FIG. 15H, the standoff structure 2204 is coupled to the outer surface 2212 at or near the bottom 2210 of the product volume 2202 so as to be adjacent to or proximate to the dispenser 2226. As in the other standoff structures described above, the standoff structure 2204 is flush with the outer surface 2212 and extends outwardly therefrom. When configured in this manner, the standoff structure 2204 is configured to protect the dispenser 2226 and prevent its damage. At the same time, the standoff structure 2204 does not interfere with the operation of the dispenser 2226 (ie, the dispensing of one or more flowable products). As shown in FIG. 15H, the front 2206, particularly approximately 90-100% of the outer surface 2212, does not include the standoff structure 2204. In other words, the standoff structure 2204 covers or overlaps only the first side 2206 and, more specifically, a small portion of the outer surface 2212. Accordingly, the container 2200 has a sized adjustable area 2224 for indicia printed thereon. Because the standoff structure 2204 extends outside the decorative area 2224, the standoff structure 2204 is configured to protect the decorative area 2224 and prevent damage thereto.

  In other embodiments, the container 2200 may include different sized and / or shaped product volumes 2202 and / or additional standoff structures 2204. Alternatively or in addition, one or more of the standoff structures 2204 may have different sizes and / or shapes and / or may be coupled to one or more different portions of the product volume 2202. (For example, closer to the dispenser).

  FIG. 15I illustrates a ninth flexible container 2250 that includes a product volume 2252 and a plurality of standoff structures 2254 coupled to the product volume 2252. The product volume 2202 in this embodiment is pressurized above atmospheric pressure. Product volume 2202 is defined by at least an associated portion, a front portion 2256, a top portion 2258, and a bottom portion 2260. The front portion 2256 has an outer surface 2262. The bottom 2260 has a bottom surface 2264 configured to contact the horizontal surface 2266. Each standoff structure 2254 has an elongated rectangular shape and can be filled with one or more inflatable materials. As shown in FIG. 15I, the standoff structures 2254 are connected to the outer surface 2262 and are spaced apart from each other along the periphery of the front surface 2262. As in the other standoff structures described above, the standoff structure 2254 is flush with the outer surface 2262 and extends outwardly therefrom. When configured in this manner, the standoff structure 2254 is configured to protect the product volume 2252 and prevent its damage. In particular, the standoff structure 2254 can protect the product volume 2252 from rupturing, especially during high force impacts. Depending on the contents of the product volume 2252, the standoff structure 2254 also protects and protects the contents of the product volume 2252, especially if the contents are fragile or fragile (eg, chips, glass). Can be configured to prevent. As shown in FIG. 15I, the front 2256, particularly approximately 80-90% of the outer surface 2262, does not include the standoff structure 2254. In other words, the standoff structure 2254 covers or overlaps only the front portion 2256 and, more specifically, a small portion of the outer surface 2262. Accordingly, the container 2250 has a sized adjustable area 2274 for indicia printed thereon. Because the standoff structure 2254 surrounds and extends outside the decorative region 2274, the standoff structure 2254 is configured to protect or prevent damage to the decorative region 2274.

  In other embodiments, the container 2250 may include different sized and / or shaped product volumes 2252 and / or additional standoff structures 2254. For example, the product volume 2252 may be depressurized. When the product volume 2252 is depressurized, the standoff structure 2254 can protect the product volume 2252, particularly its contents, from impact. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the standoff structures 2204 may have different sizes and / or shapes and / or may be coupled to one or more different portions of the product volume 2202. (Eg, closer to dispenser 2226).

  FIG. 16 illustrates a container 2300 that includes a free-standing product volume 2302 and indicia 2305 printed on a portion of the product volume 2302. The free-standing product volume 2302 has a substantially rectangular shape. More specifically, the self-supporting product volume 2302 includes a first rectangular side 2306a, a second rectangular side 2306b, a second rectangular side 2306c opposite to the first side 2306a, and a second side. It is defined by a fourth rectangular side 2306d opposite the portion 2306b, a top 2308, and a bottom 2314. The bottom 2310 is configured to contact the horizontal support surface 2316. The indicia 2305 is printed on the first side 2106a and connected to a free-standing product volume 2302 as shown in FIG. 16, such as one or more standoff structures (eg, the stand described in FIGS. 15A-H). One of the off-structures). Thus, the container 2300 gives the user (eg, consumer) of the container 2300 the (false) impression that the container 2300 has one or more standoff structures coupled to the product volume 2302.

  The standoff structures described above (eg, standoff structures 1504, 1604, 1704, 1804, 1904, 2004, etc.) are presented for sale, with containers associated with them being stored. Configured to protect when moved, moved and / or used. The stand-off structure is, for example, in or on a containment or enclosure structure (eg, grocery cart, shelf) when the container is contacted with other similar or different objects (eg, other containers). Damage such as wear, dents, ruptures, etc. of containers (eg product containers, decorative areas) that occur when placed or fall from a certain height on the surface (eg from a shelf to a cart) Configured to prevent.

  FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary method or process 2400 for preventing damage to a container having a free-standing product volume (eg, free-standing product volume 1502, 1602, 1702, 1802, 1902, 2002, 2102, 2202). ing. The methods or processes are performed in the order shown and described herein, but may be performed according to any number of different orders. In other embodiments, the method or process may include additional, fewer, or different procedures.

  The method includes providing a free-standing product volume (block 2404). A self-supporting product volume is at least partially defined by at least one side (eg, front, back, perimeter) and a bottom, the bottom having a bottom surface for contacting a horizontal support surface. The method also includes providing a standoff structure, such as, for example, a standoff structure 1504, 1604, 1704, 1804, 1904, 2004, 2104, 2204 (block 2408). The method further includes connecting the standoff structure to a portion of the freestanding product volume in a coplanar manner, wherein the portion of the freestanding product volume to which the standoff structure is connected is at least partially. Does not include a standoff structure (block 2412). The step of joining may form the standoff structure integrally (eg, attached) to a portion of the freestanding product volume, or form the standoff structure separately, and then convert the standoff structure to the freestanding product volume. Joining may be included. As a result, the stand-off structure reduces the free-standing product volume when the container falls from a level above the horizontal surface or is brought into contact with another object (eg, another container). Protect.

  24 and 25 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of at least one standoff structure coupled to the top of the container, where the center and bottom of the container do not include the standoff structure.

  In FIG. 24, the container 3000 includes an upper part 3004, a central part 3006, and a bottom part 3008. The top portion 3004 is separated from the central portion 3006 by the reference surface 3005, while the central portion 3006 is separated from the bottom portion 3008 by the reference surface 3007. The container 3000 includes a first side 3106, an outer surface 3112, and a standoff structure 3104 that is connected to the outer surface 3112 by an upper portion 3004 of the container 3000. The central portion 3006 and the bottom portion 3008 of the outer surface 3112 of the first side portion 3106 do not include a standoff structure. The container 3000 may also include a dispenser 3160 that can be closed, but when in the open state, the dispenser 3160 causes the container 3000 to transfer a product, such as one or more flowable products, from the product volume 3150 to the flow channel. Through 3159 and then through dispenser 3160 to allow dispensing to the environment outside of container 3000. Alternatively, the standoff structure 3104 may expand only a portion of the width of the first side 3106 of the container 3000 and / or may include any shape including alignment. The container 3000 may also include additional standoff structures within the upper portion 3004. Further, the upper perimeter of the top 3004 may include a straight, arcuate, or compound profile, or may be generally parallel or angled with respect to the bottom of the container, or a horizontal surface on which the container bottom may be placed. May be directed to. The angle can be any integer value of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 °, or 0-55 ° with respect to the bottom or horizontal plane. Where container 3000 includes multiple sides or exterior surfaces, at least two of these sides or exterior surfaces may each include at least one standoff structure coupled to the sides or exterior surfaces. In a typical standoff structure, each standoff structure is at least partially flush with the product volume. Each standoff structure may or may not be completely flush with the product volume.

  In FIG. 25, a closed container 4000 includes a free-standing product volume 4105, a top portion 4004, a central portion 4006, and a bottom portion 4008. The top portion 4004 is separated from the central portion 4006 by the reference surface 4005, while the central portion 4006 is separated from the bottom portion 4008 by the reference surface 4007. The container 4000 is a standoff structure connected to the first side 4106a, the first outer surface 4112a, the second side 4106b, the second outer surface 4112a, and the outer surface 4112 on or along the upper part 3004 of the container 3000. 4104 is included. The standoff structure 4104 is coupled to the side of the product volume 4102 so that the standoff structure extends beyond or over the edge 4109 located in the upper portion 4004 of the container 4000, thus at least partially extending it. It is comprised so that it may coat | cover. The central portion 4006 and bottom portion 4008 of the first side 4106a and / or the central portion and bottom portion 4008 of the first outer surface 4112a of the container 3000 do not include a standoff structure. In addition, the central portion 4006 and bottom portion 4008 of the second side portion 4106b and the central portion 4006 and bottom portion 4008 of the second outer surface 4112b of the container 4000 do not include a standoff structure. Alternatively, the standoff structure 3104 may extend only over a portion of the width of the first side 3106a, the first outer surface 3112a, the second side 3106b, and the second outer surface 3112b of the upper portion 4004 of the container 4000. The standoff structure 3104 may have any shape including alignment. The container 4000 is not shown herein, but in or on top of the upper portion 3004, on either the first outer surface 3112a, the second side 3106b, and / or the second outer surface 3112b, As well as additional standoff structures at any other location. Further, the edge 4109 of the top 4004 may include a straight, arcuate, or compound profile, or may be generally parallel or angled with respect to the bottom of the container, or a horizontal surface on which the container bottom may be placed. May be directed to. Where the container 4000 has multiple sides, or outer surfaces, at least two of these sides or outer surfaces may each include at least one standoff structure coupled to the side or outer surface. In a typical standoff structure, each standoff structure is at least partially flush with the product volume. Each standoff structure may or may not be completely flush with the product volume.

  Multiple container assemblies, such as two, three, or more, may be associated through at least one film or flexible material, including multiple containers. At least two of the containers of the container assembly include at least one standoff structure that is at least partially flush with the product volume. The assembly may be placed, for example, in a web or string of packaging that is joined from bottom to top or from side edge to side edge. The film (s) extending between the containers may be marked for the user to cut between the containers and separate one or more containers. Alternatively, the film (s) extending between adjacent containers may provide one or more lines of weakness, which advantageously allows the user to more easily separate the containers. The line of weakness may include, for example, film perforations, scores, serrated edges, serrated seals, perforation lines, or heat weakened film bands or sections.

  The product volume may be a free standing product volume or may not be a free standing product volume. Both are envisaged herein.

  At least one standoff structure of the container is at least partially connected to at least a first side of the container, or a first lateral outer surface, or a side of the product volume, while the at least one standoff is a container At least partially flush with the product volume. In at least a partial coplanar configuration of the at least one standoff structure, about 5%, 10, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50 of the standoff structure. %, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100% may be coplanar with one or many product volumes. In other words, the standoff structure may be coplanar with about 5% to 100% of one or multiple product volumes, or any value in between (including integer values therein). If the stand-off structure is flush with the product volume, the stand-off structure is the side of the product volume of the container, the side of the container, or the outer surface of the container (which itself is connected to the product volume and in this respect the product (Which is flush with the volume). The standoff structure may share the product volume sides and walls, but this is not required.

  FIG. 26 illustrates an embodiment of a different standoff structure configuration in which the container 5000 is closed. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of the container from edge 5001 to edge 5002 where product volume 5050 contains product 5060. The container 5000 includes a first container side part 5010 and a second container side part 5020. The first container side 5010 includes a wall 5052 made of a film that forms part of the product volume 5050. The second container side 5020 includes two walls including a film, including a wall 5054 that forms part of the product volume 5050 and a coplanar wall 5056 that includes the film, which is an outer surface of the second side. Including.

  In the first side portion 5010, the cross section of the stand-off structure 5004 a is connected to the wall portion 5052. The standoff 5004a is completely surrounded by its own wall including the film, and a part thereof is connected to the wall 5052. In the first side portion 5010, the cross section of the stand-off structure 5004 a is connected to the wall portion 5052. The standoff 500ba is completely surrounded by its own wall containing film, but has side fins 5004x and 5004y, which provide a connecting contact to the wall 5052.

  In the second side portion 5020, a cross-sectional view of the standoff structure 5004 c is connected to the wall portion 5054. Standoff 5004c is completely surrounded by both its wall 5056 and wall 5054 (including that portion of product volume 5050).

  Some, portions, or all of any of the embodiments disclosed herein are among other embodiments known in the art of flexible containers, including the following embodiments: Part, each part, or all.

  Embodiments of the present disclosure include any and all embodiments of flexible container materials, structures, and / or functions disclosed in the following patent documents, as well as such flexible containers: Any and all methods of making and / or using can be used: (1) filed May 7, 2013 and as US Patent Application Publication No. 20130292353 (Applicant's Case Number 12464M). Published U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 13 / 888,679, entitled "Flexible Containers", (2) filed May 7, 2013, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20130292395 (Applicant's Case Number 12464M2) No. 13 / 888,721, entitled “Flexible Containers”, (3), published as US Pat. U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 13 / 888,963, filed May 7, 2013 and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20130292415 (Applicant Item No. 12465M), entitled "Flexible Containers", (4 US patent non-provisional application No. 13 / 888,756, filed May 7, 2013 and published as US Patent Application Publication No. 201302292287 (Applicant's Case No. 12559M), entitled "Flexible Containers Having a Decoration" (Panel), (5) U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 13 / 957,158, filed Aug. 1, 2013 and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20140033654 (Applicant's Case No. 12559M). Methods o "Making Flexible Containers", and (6) U.S. Patent Non-Provisional Application No. 13 / 957,187, filed Aug. 1, 2013 and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20140033655 (Applicant Item No. 12579M2). , Title “Methods of Making Flexible Containers”, (7) filed on May 7, 2013 and published as US Patent Application Publication No. 20130292413 (Applicant's Case No. 12785M). 889,000, the title “Flexible Containers with Multiple Product Volumes”, (8) filed on May 7, 2013 and published in US Patent Application No. 20130337244 (issued) U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 13 / 889,061, entitled “Flexible Materials for Flexible Containers” (9) filed on May 7, 2013, published as Applicant's Case Number 12786M) U.S. Patent Provisional Application No. 13 / 889,090, entitled "Flexible Materials for Flexible Containers", published as No. 20130294711 (Applicant Item No. 12786M2), (10) filed on August 1, 2013 , U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 861,100, entitled “Disposable Flexible Containers Having Surface Elements” (Applicant's Case Number 13016P), ( 1) US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 861,106, filed August 1, 2013, entitled “Flexible Containers having Improved Team and Methods of Making the Same” (Applicant's Case Number 13017P), (12) U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 861,118, titled “Methods of Forming a Flexible Container” (Applicant Item No. 13018P), filed on August 1, 2013, (13) August 1, 2013 U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 861,129, entitled “Enhancements to Tactile Interaction with Film Walled Packing Having” “Air Filled Structural Support Volumes” (Applicant's Case Number 13019P), (14) Chinese Patent Application No. CN2013 / 085045, filed October 11, 2013, entitled “Flexible Containers Haven a Squeez” (Proposal No. 13036), (15) No. CN20138506 filed on Oct. 11, 2013, titled “Stable Flexible Containers” (Applicant Proposal No. 13037), (16) Nov. 6, 2013 U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 900,450, entitled “Flexible Containers and Methods of Forming the S” me ”(Applicant's case number 13126P), (17) US provisional application 61 / 900,488, filed on November 6, 2013, titled“ Easy to Empty Flexible Containers ”(Applicant's case number 13127P) ), (18) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 900,501, filed November 6, 2013, entitled "Containers Having a Product Volume and a Stand-Off Structure Coupled Therto" (Applicant Project Number 13128P) ), (19) U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 900,508, filed on November 6, 2013, entitled “Flexible Containers Having Flexible Valves” ( (Applicant Case Number 13129P), (20) US Provisional Application No. 61 / 900,514 filed on November 6, 2013, entitled “Flexible Containers with Vent Systems” (Applicant Case Number 13130P), ( 21) U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 900,765, filed November 6, 2013, entitled "Flexible Containers for use with Short Shelf-Life Products and Methods for Accelerating Distillers" No. 13131P), (22) US Provisional Application No. 61 / 900,794, filed Nov. 6, 2013, title "Flexible Containers and Methods of Forming the Same" (Applicant Case No. 13132P), (23) US Provisional Application No. 61 / 900,805, filed November 6, 2013, entitled "Flexible Containers and Methods" “Making the Same” (Applicant's Case Number 13133P), (24) US Provisional Application No. 61 / 900,810, filed on November 6, 2013, entitled “Flexible Containers and Methods of Making Same Same” ( Applicant case number 13134P) (each incorporated herein by reference).

  Embodiments of the present disclosure include any and all embodiments of flexible container materials, structures, and / or functions disclosed in the following patent documents, as well as such flexible containers: Any and all methods of making and / or using can be used: US Pat. No. 5,137, filed on Oct. 29, 1991 and granted on Aug. 11, 1992. PCT International Patent Application WO 96/01775, entitled “Packaging”, filed July 5, 1995 and published January 26, 1995, entitled “Food bag structure having compressed components” (Cohen). "Puch with Stiffening Air Channels" (Prats) Applicant Danapak Holding A / S), PCT International Patent Application WO 98/01354, filed on June 8, 1997 and published on January 15, 1998, entitled “A Packing Container and a Method of IT”. "Manufacture" (Naslund), filed March 19, 1997, and granted on October 5, 1999, U.S. Patent No. 5,960,975, titled "Packaging material web for a self-supporting packing container". , And packing containers made from the web "(Lennartsson) (Applicant Tetra Laval), 199 No. 6,244,466, entitled “Packaging Container and a Method of Manufacture” (Naslund), Apr. 19, 2002, filed Jul. 8, 7 and granted on Jun. 12, 2001. PCT International Patent Application WO 02/085729, entitled “Container” (Rosen) (Applicant Eco Lean Research and Development A / S), filed on Oct. 31, 2002, July 2004 Japanese Patent JP 4736364, filed on July 20, 2011, titled “Independent Sack” (Masaki) (Applicant Toppan Printing), filed on November 3, 2004 , Was published on July 14, 2005, PCT international patent application WO2005 / 063589 Patent, entitled "Container of Flexible Material" (Figols Gamiz) (applicant Volpak, S. A. ), German patent application DE202005016704 U1, filed January 17, 2005, published as patent publication DE102005002301. “reinforce the wall to stable it” (Heukamp) (Applicant Menshen), filed on Feb. 5, 2008 and published as patent publication JP2009184690, title “Self-standing” Bag "(Shin ya), (Applicant Toppan Printing), filed April 19, 2002 and published as US Patent Publication No. 20040035865, US Patent Application No. 10 / 312,176, entitled “Container” (Rosen) U.S. Pat. No. 7,585,528, entitled “Packaging having an inflated frame” (Ferri, et al.), 2010, filed Dec. 16, 2002 and granted on Sep. 8, 2009. US patent application Ser. No. 12/794286, filed Jun. 4, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003030662, entitled “Flexible to Rigid Packaging Art and Method of Use and Manufactured” "Cure" (Helou), filed June 21, 2010, and granted on September 24, 2013, U.S. Patent No. 8,540,094, entitled "Collasable Bottle, Method Of Manufacturing a Blank For Bottle." and Beverage-Filled Bottle Dispensing System "(Reidl), PCT International Patent Application WO 2013/124201, filed on August 29, 2013 and published on August 29, 2013, entitled" Pouch and Method of Manufactu the Same "(Rizzi) (Applicant Cryovac, Inc.). (Each incorporated herein by reference).

  In some embodiments, the stand-off structure can be formed from the release region of the laminated film of DANAPAK International Patent Application No. 96/01775. In addition to what is disclosed in this reference, the standoff structure formed from the release region can form a structural support member, or even a structural support frame.

  In some embodiments, the stand-off structure can fill the entire wall of the packaging of, for example, Tetra Laval US Pat. No. 5,960,975. In addition to what is disclosed in this reference, the container may have fewer or more sides, and may be any shape other than a parallelepiped or a right angle prism.

  In some embodiments, a separate frame may be attached to the flexible container (attached on the outside or on the inside), such as in US Patent Publication No. 2013038062 to Helou. Besides what is disclosed herein, the container may have front and back surfaces and any number of gussets.

  In some embodiments, it can be formed by overlaying a defined product chamber and an additional web, such as in Sealed Air International Patent Application WO 2013/124201 (A1). In addition to those in this reference, structures and standoffs may be added to the package, for example, a structural support frame that surrounds the product volume. In addition, an outer wrap is added to secure the rigid element, or any other type of standoff structure of the product volume, without or in combination with it, or to the product volume. May be.

  Some, parts, or all of any of the embodiments disclosed herein are also part of other embodiments known in the art of containers for flowable products, parts, Or all, as long as those embodiments can be applied to flexible containers as disclosed herein. For example, in various embodiments, the flexible container is a vertically oriented transparent strip that is disposed on a portion of the container that covers the product volume and is configured to indicate the level of flowable product within the product volume. Can be provided.

  The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean “about 40 mm”.

  All references cited herein, including any patents or patent applications cross-referenced or related, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. . The citation of any document is either prior art with respect to any document disclosed or claimed herein, or it is any such implementation, alone or in any combination with any other reference No teaching, suggestion, or disclosure of the forms is allowed. In addition, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with the meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition given to that term in this document applies. Shall be.

  While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be utilized in combination. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims (15)

A flexible container comprising a free-standing product volume defined by at least one side, the flexible container comprising:
A standoff structure coupled to and coplanar with the at least one side of the freestanding product volume, wherein the at least one of the freestanding product volume to which the standoff structure is coupled. A standoff structure wherein at least a portion of one side does not include the standoff structure;
A flexible container further comprising a bottom configured to contact the horizontal support surface.   The container of claim 1, further comprising an outer frame coupled to the free-standing product volume at one or more locations, the outer frame including the standoff structure.   The container according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the stand-off structure is connected to an upper part of the self-supporting product volume and is flush therewith.   The container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the stand-off structure is connected to and is flush with the bottom of the self-supporting product volume.   5. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one side of the product volume includes a decorative area for indicia.   The container of claim 5, wherein the standoff structure surrounds at least a portion of the decorative area.   7. A container according to any preceding claim, wherein at least 50% of the at least one side of the free-standing product volume in which the standoff structure is located does not include the standoff structure.   A container according to any preceding claim, wherein at least 70% of the at least one side of the free-standing product volume in which the standoff structure is located does not include the standoff structure.   The container according to claim 1, wherein the stand-off structure is made from a flexible material.   10. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the standoff structure extends significantly outward from the outside of the freestanding product volume.   11. A container according to any preceding claim, wherein the standoff structure is integrally attached to at least a portion of the at least one side of the freestanding product volume.   The container according to claim 1, wherein the stand-off structure includes a stand-off structure that can be expanded by a fluid.   13. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the container comprises a plurality of standoff structures connected to and coplanar with one side of the freestanding product volume.   14. A container according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a plurality of holes disposed through the standoff structure.   The container according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of recesses disposed in the standoff structure.

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