Unloading high viscosity fluid products from pouch containers

Abstract

A system for high pressure processing of bulk high viscosity flowable products includes a carrier device having an opening therein for receiving a high pressure fluid into the carrier device. A flexible product pouch is disposed within the product carrying device, the pouch having fittings for filling and emptying the pouch with a high viscosity flowable product. An opening in the product carrying device for access to the accessory. An emptying system cooperates with the carrying device to act on the filled product pouch to increase pressure on the product within the product pouch to assist in forcing the high viscosity product out of the product pouch. And the control system controls the operation of the emptying system.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 368,558, filed on July 15, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 370,519, filed on August 5, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0002] High pressure processing (HPP) is a batch processing method by which food products are subjected to very high pressures to inactivate food pathogens. Commercial HPP machines can achieve a 5-log reduction in pathogens, similar to thermal pasteurization, but without the need to apply heat, thereby improving the quality and taste of the food. However, there are some limitations. The food to be processed must be in the final retail packaging (usually a closed flexible bottle or film container). Rigid packaging such as glass bottles cannot be used. This requires that the final food packaging must be inserted into the HPP machine at a low packaging density, thereby reducing the throughput of the machine and increasing processing costs.

[0003] HPP machines (presses) are usually run in batch cycles - each batch cycle is usually 1 minute to 5 minutes, but shorter and longer cycles are possible, depending on the product to be processed. Plastic carriers or baskets are loaded with food products that have been packaged into their final retail form. The packing density for liquid bottles and similar liquid containers for these carriers can usually be no higher than about 45%, which means that only 45% of the volume of the carrier is filled with product.

[0004] Applicants have developed a batch HPP processing system in which a flexible bag occupying substantially the entire volume of a carrying device is filled with a flowable product to be processed at a filling station remote from the HPP pressure vessel or machine that pumps the flowable product into the bag. The flowable product is then pumped out of the bag at an unfill station also located remote from the HPP pressure vessel. After processing, the bag is connected to a pump at the unfill station for transferring the flowable product for packaging. The use of this batch HPP processing system has significantly increased the volume of product that can be processed during each cycle of the HPP process. This batch processing system is the subject of U.S. Patent Publication 2021 / 050032 and PCT Publication WO2022 / 060663A1, and the entire contents of this U.S. Patent Publication and PCT Publication are incorporated herein by reference.

[0005] Current batch HPP processing systems are limited to use with low viscosity products that easily flow out of flexible bags (especially when the bag opening is tilted downward). However, there are many high viscosity products that will not easily flow out of flexible HPP bags, such as dips, salsa, hummus, etc. It is not feasible to use a suction pump to try to extract high viscosity products from HPP bags. The negative pressure that can be sucked by such a pump is limited to 14.7 psi (1 atmosphere). This suction level is not enough to overcome the low shear viscous force (viscous force) of high viscosity fluid products (e.g., products with a viscosity greater than about 500 centipoise (cP)).

[0006] The present disclosure seeks to address HPP batch processing of high viscosity (greater than about 500 cP) products, including food products. Summary of the invention

[0007] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an apparatus for high pressure treatment of batches of high viscosity products. The apparatus comprises: a carrier having an opening therein for receiving a high pressure fluid into the carrier; a flexible product bag disposed within the carrier, the bag having a fitting for filling the bag with a high viscosity flowable product and emptying the bag; an opening in the carrier for accessing the fitting; and an emptying system cooperating with the carrier to press against the product bag when the product bag is within the carrier to increase the pressure imposed on the high viscosity product within the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag.

[0009] In any of the embodiments described herein, wherein the emptying system is selected from the group consisting of: a plunger and an actuator, the actuator operating the plunger to force the plunger against the product bag at a position spaced from the fitment to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitment; at least one inflatable bladder disposed within the carrier and a system for inflating the bladder, whereby the bladder acts against the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the item bag through the fitment; an enclosure for receiving the carrier, wherein the product bag is disposed within the carrier, the enclosure having an opening for accessing the fitment and an inlet in the enclosure at a position distal to the fitment, the inlet being used to receive a fluid into the enclosure to act against the exterior of the product bag to reduce the volume of the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitment; and at least one tension sheet within the carrier and surrounding the product bag. The invention also provides a tension sheet and an actuator for pulling the tension sheet to squeeze the product bag to help force the high-viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitting.

[0010] In any embodiments described herein, wherein the product bag is elongated having opposite end portions, the fitment is located at one of the end portions of the product bag, the plunger includes a piston plate acting on the end portion of the product bag opposite the location of the fitment, and an actuating rod projecting from a side of the piston plate opposite the product bag.

[0011] In any embodiments described herein, the produce bag is elongated having opposite end portions, the accessory is located at one of the end portions of the produce bag, and the at least one inflatable bladder is selected from the group consisting of: a second bag surrounding the produce bag, a second bag disposed against an end portion of the produce bag opposite the location of the accessory, a second bag disposed against an end portion of the produce bag opposite the location of the accessory and disposed along the length of the produce bag, a second bag disposed at least along the length of the produce bag, and at least two second bags disposed at least along the length of the produce bag at at least two separate locations along the length of the product bag.

[0012] In any embodiments described herein, wherein the produce bag is elongated having opposite end portions, the fitment is located at one of the end portions of the produce bag, and the opening in the housing is located adjacent the end of the produce bag opposite the location of the fitment.

[0013] In any embodiments described herein, wherein the product bag is elongated having opposing end portions, the fitment is located at one of the end portions of the product bag, the tension sheet is wrapped circumferentially around the product bag and extends outwardly through an elongated slot in the carrier, and the actuator draws the tension sheet through the elongated slot to squeeze the product bag, thereby squeezing the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitment.

[0014] In any embodiments described herein, wherein the product bag is elongated having opposing end portions, the accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag, a first tension sheet segment circumferentially surrounds approximately 1 / 2 of the product bag, a second tension sheet segment circumferentially surrounds approximately 1 / 2 of the opposite circumferential side of the product bag, an elongated slot is formed in the product carrier at diametrically opposite positions along the product carrier, ends of the first tension sheet segment and the second tension sheet segment extend outward from the product carrier through the elongated slot, and the actuator pulls the ends of the first tension sheet segment and the second tension sheet segment extending outward from the slot in the product carrier, thereby squeezing the product bag to force the high-viscosity product out of the product bag through the accessory.

[0015] In any of the embodiments described herein, wherein the accessory extends through an opening in the carrier.

[0016] In any of the embodiments described herein, wherein the fitting extends through an opening in an end of the carrier.

[0017] In any of the embodiments described herein, further comprising a support for supporting the carrier in an inclined orientation during filling and emptying of the product bag when the product bag is disposed within the carrier.

[0018] In any of the embodiments described herein, wherein the support is tiltable relative to a horizontal plane to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag.

[0019] In any of the embodiments described herein, a control system is further included to control the tilting of the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for use with high pressure processing of batches of high viscosity flowable products is provided. The system includes: a carrier having an opening therein for receiving a high pressure fluid into the carrier; a flexible product bag disposed within the product carrier, the bag having a fitment for filling the bag with a high viscosity flowable product and for emptying the bag; an opening in the product carrier for accessing the fitment; an emptying system cooperating with the carrier to press against the filled product bag while the filled product bag is within the carrier to increase pressure on the product within the product bag to help force the product out of the product bag; and a control system for controlling operation of the emptying system.

[0021] In any of the embodiments described herein, wherein the accessory extends through an opening in the carrier.

[0022] In any of the embodiments described herein, wherein the fitting extends through an opening in an end of the carrier.

[0023] In any of the embodiments described herein, further comprising a support for supporting the carrier in an inclined orientation during filling and emptying of the produce bag when the produce bag is disposed within the carrier.

[0024] In any of the embodiments described herein, wherein the support is capable of tilting relative to a horizontal plane.

[0025] In any of the embodiments described herein, wherein the emptying system is selected from the group consisting of: a plunger and an actuator, wherein the actuator operates the plunger to force the plunger against the product bag at a position spaced apart from the accessory to increase pressure on the product in the product bag to help force the high-viscosity product out of the product bag through the accessory; at least one inflatable bladder disposed within the carrier and a system for inflating the bladder, whereby the bladder acts against the product bag to increase pressure on the product in the product bag to help force the high-viscosity product out of the item bag through the accessory; a housing for receiving the carrier, wherein the product bag is disposed within the The housing has an opening for entering the accessory and an inlet in the housing at a position distal to the accessory opening, the inlet being used to receive fluid into the housing to act against the outside of the product bag to reduce the volume of the product bag to increase the pressure on the product in the product bag to help force the high-viscosity product out of the product bag through the accessory; and at least one tension sheet and actuator in the housing and surrounding the product bag, the actuator being used to pull the tension sheet to impose a squeezing force on the product bag to increase the pressure on the product in the product bag to help force the high-viscosity product out of the product bag through the accessory.

[0026] In any embodiments described herein, wherein the product bag is elongated having opposite end portions, the accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag, the plunger includes a piston plate acting on the end portion of the product bag opposite the location of the accessory, and an actuating rod protruding from a side of the piston plate opposite the product bag, the actuator operates the actuating rod to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag.

[0027] In any embodiments described herein, wherein the product bag is elongated having opposite end portions, the accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag, and the at least one inflatable bladder is selected from the group consisting of: a second bag surrounding the product bag and a second bag disposed against an end portion of the product bag opposite the location of the accessory, a second bag disposed against an end portion of the product bag opposite the location of the accessory and disposed along the length of the product bag, a second bag disposed at least along the length of the product bag, and at least two second bags disposed at least along the length of the product bag at at least two separate locations along the length of the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag.

[0028] In any embodiments described herein, wherein the produce bag is elongated having opposite end portions, the fitment is located at one of the end portions of the produce bag, and the opening in the housing is located adjacent the end of the produce bag opposite the location of the fitment.

[0029] In any embodiments described herein, wherein the product bag is elongated having opposing end portions, the accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag, the tension sheet is wrapped circumferentially around the product bag and extends outwardly through an elongated slot in the carrier, and the actuator draws the tension sheet out through the elongated slot to squeeze the product bag.

[0030] In any embodiments described herein, the product bag is elongated having opposite end portions, the accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag, a first tension sheet segment circumferentially surrounds approximately 1 / 2 of the product bag, a second tension sheet segment circumferentially surrounds approximately 1 / 2 of the opposite circumferential side of the product bag, an elongated slot is formed in the product carrier at diametrically opposite positions along the product carrier, the ends of the first tension sheet segment and the second tension sheet segment extend outward from the product carrier through the elongated slot, and the actuator pulls the ends of the first tension sheet segment and the second tension sheet segment extending outward from the slot in the product carrier, thereby squeezing the product bag. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] The above-described aspects of the present invention and many of the attendant advantages will be better understood and more readily appreciated by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of one embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2A is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of Figure 3A is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3B is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3C is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3D is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5A is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 5B yes Figure 5A A schematic cross-sectional view of; Fig. 6A is a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 6B yes Fig. 6A A schematic cross-sectional view of ; and Figure 7 A product carrier disposed on a tilt table is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The descriptions set forth below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings (wherein like numbers refer to like elements) are intended as descriptions of various embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in the present disclosure is provided only as an example or illustration and should not be interpreted as being preferred or advantageous relative to other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the exact form disclosed. Similarly, any step described herein may be interchangeable with other steps or step combinations to achieve the same or substantially similar results.

[0033] In the following description, many specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without some or all of the specific details. In some cases, well-known process steps are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various aspects of the present disclosure. In addition, it should be understood that embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0034] The present application may include references to "directions", such as "forward", "backward", "front", "rear", "front", "rear", "upward", "downward", "above", "below", "horizontal", "vertical", "top", "bottom", "right", "left", "inside", "outside", "extend", "advance", "retract", "proximal" and "distal". These references and other similar references in the present application are merely to aid in the description and understanding of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the present invention to these directions.

[0035] This application may include modifiers such as "substantially," "about," "approximately," or "substantially." These terms are meant to be used as modifiers to indicate that the "size," "shape," "temperature," "time," or other physical parameter in question need not be exact, but may vary, so long as the function required to be performed can be achieved. For example, in the phrase "substantially circular in shape," the shape need not be exactly circular, so long as the required function of the structure in question can be achieved.

[0036] In the following description and drawings, corresponding systems, components, devices, and units may be identified by the same part number, but with a letter suffix. The description of the same or similar parts / components of such system components, devices, and units is not repeated to avoid redundancy in this application.

[0037] The present application relates to a "process medium" used in an HPP system for applying high pressure to the product being processed. Such a process medium is also referred to as a process fluid or process water in this application, and is also referred to as a pressurized / pressure medium, a pressurized / pressure fluid, or pressurized water. All of these terms can be used interchangeably.

[0038] In addition, the present application relates to a pressure vessel for an HPP device. Such a pressure vessel is also referred to as a wire-wound vessel or simply as a vessel. These terms will be considered synonymous. In addition, the present application relates to "a product" or "multiple products" that are subjected to HPP or processed by HPP using the container disclosed herein. In particular, products with relatively high viscosity are defined as having a viscosity of 500 cP or higher, or having a viscosity of about 500 cP or higher. Products that are subjected to HPP processing using the system / equipment disclosed herein can have a viscosity far higher than 500 cP. Such products can include a variety of foods (such as dips, salsa, hummus, yogurt, spreads, syrups, chocolate syrups, molasses, honey, nut butters, etc.) and non-food products (such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and organic materials and substances), where control of pathogens is desired.

[0039] Furthermore, this application refers interchangeably to emptying, unloading, and draining product from a product bag. The interchangeable use of these terms is not intended to be a difference in meaning.

[0040] In the batch HPP processing of high viscosity fluid products, at a filling station separate from the location of the HPP pressure vessel, the filling head removes the cap from the spout or fitting from the flexible product bag that has been placed into the HPP basket or carrier, and then pumps the product into the flexible product bag through the spout or fitting. The bag can be tilted so that the spout or fitting is lifted upward from the horizontal plane, especially when the flexible product bag is close to being filled. The carrier is then transported to the HPP pressure vessel, and the product is then HPP processed.

[0041] Thereafter, the carrier is transferred from the HPP equipment to an emptying station separate from the HPP pressure vessel. At the emptying station, the automated head assembly removes the cap from the mouth or fitment of the flexible product bag, and then grips and connects to the mouth or fitment so that the product can be unloaded. Additionally, at the emptying station, the carrier can be rotated upward from a horizontal plane to allow the cap to be removed without spilling the product from the product bag, and can then be rotated downward to below the horizontal plane to utilize gravity to assist in removing the processed fluid product from the product bag.

[0042] The emptying station includes various sensors to detect when a carrier is present, when the carrier is in the correct position, and when the carrier is fully engaged with the emptying station. Additional sensors at the emptying station detect the fill level of the product bag, measure the flow of product into or out of the product bag, and measure the tilt angle of the carrier.

[0043] The emptying station also includes a system for applying an external force to the flexible product bag to increase pressure on the product within the bag to assist in aseptically extracting the processed product from the product bag through the fitment to a pump for sending the product for further processing.

[0044] The present disclosure provides various exemplary but non-exclusive systems for applying an external force to a flexible produce bag to assist in extracting a processed product from the produce bag. Figure 1 In the embodiment of the present disclosure shown in FIG. 1 , a flexible product bag 10 containing a high viscosity fluid product 11 is disposed within a carrier 12. At least one end 14 or other section of the carrier 12 is removable to enable the bag 10 to be placed into and removed from the carrier. In addition, an opening is located within the carrier 12 to allow the pressure generated by the HPP device to reach the bag 10.

[0045] To help force the high viscosity fluid product 11 out of the bag 10, a piston 16 is used to apply an axial force to the product bag within the carrier 12 in the direction of arrow 18. The piston fits tightly within the carrier 12 and presents a flat surface against the adjacent end of the bag 10. A piston rod 20 extends through an opening in the carrier end wall 22 to move the piston 16 forward against the end of the product bag in an attempt to collapse the bag. As a result, the piston applies a uniform axial pressure to the product bag 10 while the carrier 12 constrains the product bag in other (radial) directions, thereby increasing the pressure everywhere within the product bag. The higher pressure at the mouth or fitting 24 is sufficient to overcome the viscous forces within the product 11 and cause the product to flow out of the product bag through the mouth to reach the pump.

[0046] A variety of methods including electric, pneumatic or hydraulic motors or actuators may be used to actuate the piston rod. In addition, the piston rod may be detachable from the piston 16 so that the carrier may be placed into an HPP chamber or apparatus.

[0047] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Another embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted in which a second flexible expandable bag or bladder 126 is also contained within the carrier 112 and circumferentially outside the product bag 100. The second bag or bladder 126 may be annular in shape when within the carrier 112, but may be fully annular or expanded into a rectangular shape when not contained within the carrier. The second bag / bladder 126 is arranged around the inner wall of the carrier 112, and the product bag 100 is disposed within the second bag / bladder.

[0048] The second bag / bladder 126 has its own mouth or fitting 128 through which the second fluid is pumped into the second bag / bladder, causing the second bag / bladder to expand radially inwardly because the second bag / bladder is restrained by the carrier and cannot expand outwardly. As a result, radially uniform pressure is applied to the product bag 100, thereby increasing the pressure everywhere in the product bag, tending to collapse the product bag. The higher pressure at the mouth or fitting 124 is sufficient to overcome the viscous forces in the product 111 and cause the product to flow out through the fitting 124 to reach the pump.

[0049] Figure 3A Another embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted in which a second flexible expandable bag or bladder 226 is also contained within the carrier 212. When expanded, the second bag or bladder is cylindrical in shape, but when collapsed, the second bag or bladder occupies a minimal volume within the carrier 112, lying flat against the inner surface of the carrier end 222.

[0050] The second bag / bladder has a fitting 228 through which a second fluid is pumped into the second bag / bladder. Figure 3A A partially expanded second bag / bladder 226 is shown. Because the second bag is constrained by the carrier, the second bag / bladder expands axially inward from the carrier end 222. In this manner, the second bag / bladder exerts a uniform axial pressure on the product bag 200, tending to collapse the product bag 200 and increase the pressure everywhere within the product bag. The higher pressure of the product 211 at the fitting 224 is sufficient to overcome the viscous forces within the product and cause the product to flow out through the fitting 224 to reach the pump.

[0051] Alternatively, a single bag / bladder with two identical compartments may be used, each compartment having its own fitting protruding out of the loading basket / carrier. During loading, product is filled in one compartment while the other compartment will drain. The product being loaded into the compartment will force the processed product out of the other compartment.

[0052] Figure 3B Depicted Figure 3A A variation of the embodiment of Figure 3B 2, the second bag or bladder 226B is configured to expand from the carrier end 222 and along the length of the carrier 212. In this way, pressure is applied to the product 200 from the carrier end 222 and along the entire length of the product bag. The accessory 224 is shown as being positioned off-center relative to the bladder 226B. However, as shown in FIG. Figure 3A As shown in , the accessory can be positioned "in the center" where the bladder 226B is shaped so as not to enclose the accessory. In other aspects, Figure 3B Examples and Figure 3A The embodiments are the same or similar.

[0053] Figure 3C Depicted Figure 3A and Figure 3B A variation of the embodiment of Figure 3C 2, the second bag or bladder 226C is configured to expand along the length of the carrier 212. In this way, pressure is applied to the product 211 along the entire length of the product bag 200. The accessory 224 is shown as being positioned "off-center" relative to the bladder 226C. However, as shown in FIG. Figure 3A As shown in , the accessory can be positioned "in the center" where the bladder 226C is shaped so as not to enclose the accessory. In other aspects, Figure 3C Examples and Figure 3A and Figure 3B The embodiments are the same or similar.

[0054] Figure 3D Depicted Figure 3A, Figure 3B and Figure 3C A variation of the embodiment of Figure 3D In the embodiment, two bags or bladders 226D are configured to expand along the length of the carrier 112. The bags or bladders can be positioned in radially opposite positions within the carrier 212. This configuration allows pressure to be applied to the product 211 along two pressure wave fronts along the entire length of the product bag 200. In other aspects, Figure 3D Examples and Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 3C The embodiments are the same or similar.

[0055] It should be understood that the bag or bladder 226 may have Figure 3A-3D Other configurations than those shown. Additionally, more than two bags or bladders may be used to remove product 211 from product bag 200. For example, in addition to Figure 3D In addition to the two bladders 226D shown in FIG. 2 , a third bladder may be located at the end 222 of the product carrier, such as Figure 3A As shown in .

[0056] Figure 4 Another embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted in which a carrier 312 is placed within a housing 330 that is configured in the form of a tank structure that can be exposed to internal pressure. In this regard, the housing 330 includes a removable end cap or lid 332. A seal 334 is interposed between a flange 336 formed at the end of the housing and the lid 332.

[0057] A pump may be used to introduce a second fluid 338, such as water or air, under pressure into the housing. The carrier 312 has holes or perforations so the second fluid 338 can enter and surround the product bag 300. The second fluid 338 exerts uniform pressure on all sides of the product bag 300, thereby increasing the pressure everywhere within the product bag, tending to collapse the product bag 300. The higher pressure of the product 311 at the fitment 324 of the product bag 300 is sufficient to overcome the viscous forces within the product to allow the product to flow out through the fitment to the pump.

[0058] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Another embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted in which a flexible and durable tension sheet 438 is wrapped in a spiral fashion in one or more layers around the product bag 400. The tension sheet 438 may be constructed of a strong, flexible material with a low coefficient of friction, such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW PE) or PTFE.

[0059] One end edge 440 of the tension sheet 438 is anchored to the interior of the carrier 412. A mechanized system is used to pull the opposite end edge 442 of the tension sheet to extract the tension sheet through a slot formed along the length of the carrier 412, thereby applying radial pressure to the circumference of the product bag 400, tending to collapse the product bag 400. This increases the pressure of the product 411 at the fitting 424 enough to overcome the viscous forces within the product and cause the product to flow out through the fitting to the pump.

[0060] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B Another embodiment of the present disclosure is depicted in which a single flexible and durable tension sheet 538 or two joined flexible and durable tension sheets lines the inner surface of the carrier 512 and surrounds the product bag 500. The tension sheet 538 is made of a strong, flexible material with a low coefficient of friction, such as ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW PE) or PTFE.

[0061] The end portions 540 and 542 of the tension sheet 538 are mechanically pulled apart in two diametrically opposite directions by a mechanized system to extract it from the carrier 512 through a slot 544 formed along the length of the carrier, as depicted by arrows 546. As a result, the tension sheet 538 squeezes the product bag by applying radially inward pressure to the product bag, thereby tending to collapse the product bag. This increases the pressure of the product 511 depicted by arrows 548 at the fitting 524 to a sufficient level to overcome the viscous forces within the product and cause the product to flow out through the fitting to the pump.

[0062] It should be understood that the location where the product bags 10, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 are filled and emptied is not within the chamber or pressure vessel where the HPP occurs. When within the carrier, the product bags are filled and emptied at a common location (or at a different location) separate from the pressure vessel. In this way, the filling and / or emptying of the product bags does not take up any processing time of the pressure vessel, nor does the filling and / or emptying station take up any pressure vessel space.

[0063] Figure 7 A carrier, such as carrier 12, is illustrated mounted on an inclined table structure 600. A flow valve 601 is shown connected to a fitting 24 (not visible) for emptying a product bag 10. The table structure 600 includes a longitudinal platform 602 on which the carrier 12 is supported. A series of rollers may be mounted along each side of the platform 602, or elsewhere along the platform, for bearing against an outer portion of the carrier 12 for facilitating loading and unloading of the carrier from the table structure 600.

[0064] Platform 602 is pivotally mounted about transverse axis 606 by bearings 604 to the upper ends of upright support columns 608 extending upwardly from base structure 610. Diagonal bars 612 extend from the corners of base structure 610 to the upper ends of support columns 608 for enhancing the structural integrity of table structure 600.

[0065] A strap structure 614 extends around the carrier 12 to interconnect the upper ends of the posts 608 and also serves to provide structural integrity to the stage structure 600 .

[0066] Motors (not visible) are provided to change the orientation of platform 602 about axis 606. Control system 616 is located within control housing 618 and functions to control operation of the motors and, therefore, tilt of control platform 602 about axis 606.

[0067] In this regard, the table structure 600 can be tilted so that the fitment is raised relative to the bag 10 when the bag is filled. In addition, the table structure 600 can be tilted so that the fitment is raised relative to the bag 10 to open the fitment, and then lowered relative to the bag to empty the bag, and raised relative to the bag after emptying the bag to close the fitment. Of course, other sequences of tilting the table structure when filling and / or emptying the product bag 10 can be used.

[0068] exist Figure 7 Schematically shown in the control system 616. In this regard, the control system includes a computer or processor 620, an input device 622 (keyboard, mouse, touch screen, etc.) and an output device 624 (touch screen, monitor, printer, etc.). The control system 616 also includes a memory unit 626. In addition, the control system includes an input / output interface 628 for receiving and sending signals and information from the HPP press, the flow control valve 601 and the tilt table 600 and other components.

[0069] Rather than employing a local control system 616, the control system 616 may be connected to the network 630. A networked computing / control system may be used for this purpose.

[0070] Although exemplary embodiments have been illustrated and described, it should be understood that various changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In this regard, produce bags 10, 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 may have a variety of sizes and volumes. For example, the produce bag may have a capacity as small as approximately 20 to 25 liters, or at least 200 to 250 liters, or even greater. Of course, the produce bag may have an even smaller capacity as well as an even greater capacity.

[0071] Furthermore, tilt table 600 may be replaced with other structures to support and tilt a carrier, such as carrier 12 , during filling and emptying of carrier 12 .

Claims

1. An apparatus for high pressure processing of batches of high viscosity products, comprising: a carrying device, the carrying device having an opening for receiving a high pressure fluid within the carrying device; b. a flexible product bag disposed within the carrier, the bag having fittings for filling the bag with a high viscosity flowable product and emptying the bag; c. an opening in the carrier device for accessing the accessory; as well as d. an emptying system cooperating with the carrier to press against the product bag while in the carrier to increase the pressure imposed on the high viscosity product in the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein: The emptying system is selected from the group consisting of: a. a plunger and an actuator, the actuator operating the plunger to force the plunger against the product bag at a position spaced apart from the fitting to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitting; b. at least one inflatable bladder disposed within the carrier and a system for inflating the bladder, whereby the bladder acts against the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the item bag through the fitment; c. a housing for receiving the carrier, wherein the product bag is disposed within the carrier, the housing having an opening for accessing the fitment and an inlet in the housing at a location distal to the fitment, the inlet for receiving a fluid into the housing to act against an exterior of the product bag to reduce the volume of the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitment; as well as d. at least one tension sheet and an actuator within the carrier and surrounding the product bag, the actuator being configured to pull the tension sheet to squeeze the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitment.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: a. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; b. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; and c. The plunger comprises a piston plate acting on an end portion of the product bag opposite to the position of the accessory; d. an actuation rod protruding from a side of the piston plate opposite the product bag.

4. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: a. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; b. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; and c. The at least one inflatable bladder is selected from the group consisting of: a second bag surrounding the product bag, a second bag disposed against an end portion of the product bag opposite the location of the accessory, a second bag disposed against an end portion of the product bag opposite the location of the accessory and disposed along the length of the product bag, a second bag disposed at least along the length of the product bag, and at least two second bags disposed at least along the length of the product bag at at least two separate locations along the length of the product bag.

5. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: a. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; b. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; and c. The opening in the housing is located adjacent the end of the produce bag opposite the location of the fitment.

6. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein: a. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; b. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; c. The tension sheet is wrapped circumferentially around the product bag and extends outwardly through the elongated slot in the carrier; and d. The actuator extracts the tension sheet through the elongated slot to squeeze the product bag, thereby squeezing the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitment.

7. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein: a. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; b. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; c. The first tension sheet segment circumferentially surrounds approximately 1 / 2 of the product bag; d. A second tension sheet segment circumferentially surrounds approximately 1 / 2 of the opposite circumferential side of the project bag; e. an elongated slot formed in the product carrier at diametrically opposed positions along the product carrier, the ends of the first tension sheet segment and the second tension sheet segment extending outwardly from the product carrier through the elongated slot; and f. The actuator pulls the ends of the first and second tension sheet segments extending outwardly from the slot in the product carrier, thereby squeezing the product bag to force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitment.

8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The accessory extends through an opening in the carrier.

9. The device according to claim 8, wherein: The fitting extends through an opening in one end of the carrier.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-9, further comprising a support for supporting the carrier in an inclined orientation during filling and emptying of the product bag when the product bag is disposed within the carrier.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein: The support can be tilted relative to a horizontal plane.

12. Apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, further comprising a control system to control the tilting of the product bag.

13. A system for use with high pressure processing of batches of high viscosity flowable products, comprising: a carrying device, the carrying device having an opening for receiving a high pressure fluid within the carrying device; b. a flexible product bag disposed within a product carrier, the bag having fittings for filling the bag with a high viscosity flowable product and emptying the bag; c. an opening in the product carrying device for accessing the accessory; d. an emptying system cooperating with the carrier to press against the filled product bag when the filled product bag is within the carrier to increase pressure on the product within the product bag to help force the product out of the product bag; and e. A control system for controlling the operation of the emptying system.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: The accessory extends through an opening in the carrier.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein: The fitting extends through an opening in one end of the carrier.

16. The system of any one of claims 13-15, further comprising a support for supporting the carrier in an inclined orientation during filling and emptying of the product bag when the product bag is disposed within the carrier.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein: The support can be tilted relative to a horizontal plane.

18. The system according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein: The emptying system is selected from the group consisting of: a. a plunger and an actuator, the actuator operating the plunger to force the plunger against the product bag at a position spaced apart from the fitting to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitting; b. at least one inflatable bladder disposed within the carrier and a system for inflating the bladder, whereby the bladder acts against the product bag to increase pressure on the product within the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the item bag through the fitment; c. a housing for receiving the carrier, wherein the product bag is disposed within the carrier, the housing having an opening for accessing the fitment and an inlet in the housing at a location distal to the fitment opening, the inlet for receiving a fluid into the carrier to act against an exterior of the product bag to reduce the volume of the product bag to increase pressure on the product within the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitment; as well as d. at least one tension sheet and an actuator within the carrier and surrounding the product bag, the actuator being used to pull the tension sheet to impose a squeezing force on the product bag to increase the pressure on the product in the product bag to help force the high viscosity product out of the product bag through the fitting.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein: a. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; b. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; c. The plunger comprises a piston plate acting on an end portion of the product bag opposite to the position of the accessory; d. an actuation rod protruding from a side of the piston plate opposite the product bag, the actuator operating the actuation rod.

20. The system of claim 18, wherein: e. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; f. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; and g. The at least one inflatable bladder is selected from the group consisting of: a second bag surrounding the product bag and a second bag disposed against an end portion of the product bag opposite to the location of the accessory, a second bag disposed against an end portion of the product bag opposite to the location of the accessory and disposed along the length of the product bag, a second bag disposed at least along the length of the product bag, and at least two second bags disposed at least along the length of the product bag at at least two separate locations along the length of the product bag.

21. The system of claim 18, wherein: a. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; b. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; and c. The opening in the housing is located adjacent the end of the produce bag opposite the location of the fitment.

22. The system of claim 18, wherein: a. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; b. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; c. The tension sheet is wrapped circumferentially around the product bag and extends outwardly through the elongated slot in the carrier; and d. The actuator draws out the tension sheet through the elongated slot to squeeze the product bag.

23. The system of claim 18, wherein: a. The product bag is elongated having opposite end portions; b. The accessory is located at one of the end portions of the product bag; c. The first tension sheet segment circumferentially surrounds approximately 1 / 2 of the product bag; d. A second tension sheet segment circumferentially surrounds approximately 1 / 2 of the opposite circumferential side of the project bag; e. an elongated slot formed in the product carrying device at diametrically opposed positions along the product carrying device, the ends of the first tension sheet segment and the second tension sheet segment extending outwardly from the product carrying device through the elongated slot; f. The actuator pulls the ends of the first and second tension sheet segments extending outwardly from the slot in the product carrier, thereby squeezing the product bag.

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