Mixing package and methods of forming and using same

Abstract

A package having two or more selectively isolated compartments and a mixing region is disclosed. A mixing region can be included between the mixing compartments, with respective access devices (e.g., zipper or film member) provided to provide selective communication between the compartments and the mixing region. One or more pull members can be included on the exterior of the package such that pulling on the tabs opens the access devices to facilitate communication between the compartments and their respective contents.

Description

PRIORITY[0001]This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 376,864, filed Aug. 25, 2010 and entitled MIXING PACKAGE AND METHODS OF FORMING SAME, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to flexible packaging and, more particularly, to flexible packaging adapted to selectively mix the contents of two or more compartments or chambers.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Various conventional flexible packages exist for separating two or more products or components prior to use. In general, at least one of the components is a liquid. Pressure causes the contents to exert force upon a frangible tape or seal until a breaking or bursting point is reached. At the point of rupture, the previously separated contents are then brought into communication with each other.[0004]While generally effective in mixing the pouch contents after pressure is applied, these conventi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]The present invention solves many of the problems that plague conventional mixing packages and packaging methods. Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a package or pouch generally constructed of a flexible polymer material or film laminate. Two or more mixing compartments are provided. In addition, one or more zipper or like access devices are provided intermediate the mixing compartments such that a pulling force on the package or access devices selectively opens a communication region or channel between the mixing compartments. As such, inadvertent or even relatively high squeezing pressure on the outside of the package or access devices will not cause an undesirable rupture or communication between the compartments.

[0007]In one embodiment, the package includes a first compartment, a second compartment, a leak resistant or leak proof first zipper device and second zipper device, and an initial mixing region or compartment. The first and second zipper devices are provided at the area of communication between the respective first and second compartments and provide the means for enabling communication between the mixing region and the corresponding compartment. In use, significant squeezing or other pressure force onto the package from the outside of the package will simply cause the contents of the compartments to press against the access devices, and will not cause rupture or communication between the compartments. However, a relatively low level pulling force on the outside of the package proximate the zipper devices will cause the interlocking members of the devices, or extending members of a film, to disengage and open communication between the compartments. Pull tabs, fins, members, or like structures or devices can be included on the outside of the package above or opposite the product side of the zipper devices to facilitate pulling or opening of the zipper devices.

Problems solved by technology

However, a relatively low level pulling force on the outside of the package proximate the zipper devices will cause the interlocking members of the devices, or extending members of a film, to disengage and open communication between the compartments.

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