Fitting assembly for flexible container, flexible container having fitting assembly, and probe for dispensing from flexible container

Abstract

A fitting assembly includes a cap member, a plug member, and a tamper cover. The cap member includes a top platform having a central opening and a dispensing tube depending therefrom. A plug member is releasably coupled to the lower end dispensing tube. The plug member includes a base, a plug clip, and a cap clip. The tamper cover is positioned above the central opening of the top platform. The disclosure also includes a flexible container formed with a flexible pouch having a spout to which a fitting assembly is coupled and a probe for dispensing from the flexible container. Methods of use are further disclosed.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 425,661, filed on November 15, 2022, entitled "Fitment Assembly For A Flexible Bag, Flexible Bag Having A Fitment Assembly And Probe Used For Dispensing From The Flexible Bag", the entire specification of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to flexible packaging and, more particularly, to a fitment assembly for a flexible container, a flexible container having a flexible bag and a spout, where the fitment assembly is attachable to the flexible container, and a probe for dispensing from the flexible container. Background Art

[0004] The dispensing of flowable materials is known in the art. There are many applications where a flowable material is held in a container, such as a flexible bag, and the dispensed flowable material includes, for example but not limited to, liquids, gels, creams, syrups, seasonings, condiments, beverages, etc.

[0005] It is desirable to dock such a flexible bag with a dispensing probe such that the dispensing probe can be inserted into the fitment assembly of the flexible bag and removed from the connection with the fitment assembly of the flexible bag, where the probe can open and reseal the fitment assembly upon its insertion and removal. Additionally, when the flowable material has been removed from the flexible bag, a subsequent bag can be connected to the dispensing probe. Advantageously, the flexible bag can be connected and disconnected multiple times without the need for additional closing measures and the corresponding loss of flowable material, leakage, or damage to the flowable material within the flexible bag.

[0006] There is a need for improvements in the operation of dispensing flowable materials from flexible bags from multiple perspectives, including but not limited to cost savings, performance, manufacturing, use, etc. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the present disclosure relates to an assembly component attachable to a nozzle, the assembly component including a cap member and a plug member. The cap member includes a top platform, a nozzle, and a distribution tube. The top platform includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The nozzle coupling member includes an outer overhanging skirt and an inner overhanging skirt spaced from the outer overhanging skirt, the inner overhanging skirt being structurally configured to receive the passage of the nozzle in a sealed engagement therebetween. The distribution tube defines an elongated aperture spaced from the inner overhanging skirt. The distribution tube also has an upper end near the lower surface of the top platform and terminates at a lower end. The distribution tube further includes an inner surface having a locking rib positioned between the upper end and the lower end, and a plug seal rib near the locking rib and the lower end. The plug member includes a base, at least two plug clips, and at least two cap clips. The base has a central region and an outer surface having a sealing region extending therearound, the sealing region being structurally configured to sealingly engage the plug seal rib of the distribution tube. The at least two plug clips are positioned opposite each other and extend from the base. Each plug clip includes a stem portion and terminates at a head. The head includes an inward tab and an outward tab opposite the inward tab. The at least two cap clips are positioned opposite each other and extend from the base and are spaced from the at least two plug clips for alternation therewith. Each cap clip includes a stem terminating at a head. The head includes an inward tab and an outward tab. The outward tab is structurally configured to releasably engage the locking rib of the distribution tube when the plug member is in a sealed orientation. The inward tabs of the at least two plug clips extend inwardly beyond the inward tabs of the at least two cap clips, and the outward tabs of the at least two cap clips extend outwardly beyond the outward tabs of the at least two plug clips.

[0008] In some configurations, the assembly component further includes a tamper-evident cover removably positioned above the upper surface of the top platform. The tamper-evident cover has an outer perimeter having a plurality of tab outward bumps extending outwardly from the outer perimeter in a spaced-apart orientation. The upper surface of the top platform also includes a plurality of guard bumps extending from the surface and spaced apart from each other at the outer surface of the top platform. The guard bumps define valleys therebetween. The spacing between the guard bumps around the top platform and the tab outward bumps of the tamper-evident cover causes at least one tab outward bump to align with a valley between two of the plurality of guard bumps.

[0009] In some configurations, three guard bumps are evenly spaced around the top platform from each other, and four tab outward bumps are evenly spaced around the outer perimeter of the tamper-evident cover from each other.

[0010] In some configurations, a channel hoop region extends around the central region, wherein the outer surface forms a part of the central region and further defines a channel between the outer surface and the central region. The channel provides flexibility such that when sealingly engaged with the plug seal rib of the distribution tube, the annular region is outwardly biased against the plug seal rib.

[0011] In some configurations, a circumferential flange extends around a lower end of the outer surface and is configured to butt against a lower end of the distribution pipe when the plug member is in a sealing orientation.

[0012] In some configurations, a central region of the circumferential flange and the base are substantially coplanar and define a lower surface of the plug member.

[0013] In some configurations, the circumferential flange and the outer surface are substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0014] In some configurations, the central region further includes an annular region on its outer side and inside a channel hoop region. The channel hoop region has an inner surface extending from an upper surface of the annular region. The central region, the upper surface, and the inner surface cooperate together to form a cavity that is structurally configured to receive a lower end of a probe. The inner surface and the upper surface of the annular region are substantially perpendicular to each other.

[0015] In some configurations, the stem portions of each of the at least two plug clips and the stem portions of each of the at least two cap clips are spaced apart from the inner surface of the channel hoop region.

[0016] In some configurations, the stem portions of each of the at least two plug clips and the stem portions of each of the at least two cap clips are spaced apart from the outer surface.

[0017] In some configurations, the stem portions of the at least two plug clips are inside the stem portions of the at least two cap clips.

[0018] In some configurations, the locking rib and the plug sealing rib are spaced apart from each other along the inner surface of the distribution pipe.

[0019] In some configurations, the plug sealing rib is spaced apart from the lower end of the distribution pipe.

[0020] In some configurations, an inward tab of each of the at least two cap clips defines a face such that two opposite faces of the inward tabs of the at least two cap clips define a cylindrical configuration.

[0021] In some configurations, the inward tab of each of the at least two cap clips terminates at a flange at a lower end, where the flange is perpendicular to the face.

[0022] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the present disclosure relates to a flexible container. The flexible container includes a flexible bag, a spout, and an assembly component. The flexible bag has a plurality of panels, the panels having a plurality of seals to define a cavity and having an opening providing communication with the cavity. The spout has a base flange and an upright member extending from the base flange and terminating at an upper edge. The base flange is coupled to the bag in a fluid-tight engagement around the opening, and the upright member defines a passage that forms a fluid communication with the cavity. The assembly component can be any of the assembly component configurations described above or below, wherein the upright member extends into and is sealingly engaged within a passage formed by an inner hanging skirt and an outer hanging skirt.

[0023] In some configurations, the opening is formed in a panel of the plurality of panels.

[0024] In some configurations, the flexible container includes a central flange disposed on an outer surface of the upright member, wherein the outer hanging skirt is spaced apart from the central flange.

[0025] In some configurations, the dispensing tube and the plug member are structurally configured such that the plug member can travel between a sealed orientation and an unsealed orientation while the plug member remains within the passage of the upright member.

[0026] In some configurations, the plug member is structurally configured to extend completely beyond the passage of the upright member.

[0027] In another aspect of the present disclosure, the present disclosure relates to a probe configured to be used in combination with a flexible container as described above or below. The probe includes a body, a locking portion, a seal, a probe bore, an upper docking ridge, and a locking portion. The body includes an outer surface and an inner bore. The probe is structurally configured to be insertable into a dispensing tube of a cap member. The locking portion is disposed at a lower end of the body. The seal is disposed around the outer surface and spaced apart from the locking portion. The seal is configured to seal the engagement between the dispensing tube and the body of the probe. The probe bore extends therethrough and terminates at a bore opening through the outer surface. The bore opening is defined between the locking portion and the seal. The upper docking ridge is positioned between an upper portion and the locking portion. The upper docking ridge is configured to engage a locking rib to prevent further insertion of the probe into the dispensing tube. The locking portion is structurally configured to engage a plug clip of the plug member for releasable engagement therewith, wherein the probe is configured to guide the plug member between a sealed orientation and a non-sealed orientation while being releasably coupled to the plug member.

[0028] In some configurations, the seal member sealingly engages the dispensing tube in a sealed engagement before the probe guides the plug member from the sealed orientation to the unsealed orientation.

[0029] In some configurations, the locking portion further includes an upper end, a lower end, a clip engagement tab, and a wall. The clip engagement tab is structurally configured to engage at least the inward tabs of at least two plugs of the cap member while being capable of elastically deforming at least two plugs of the cap member during engagement. The well portion defines a passage between the dispensing opening and the clip engagement tab. The well portion is configured to receive at least the inward tabs of at least two plugs.

[0030] In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, the present disclosure relates to a dispensing method that includes the steps of: providing a flexible container and a probe; guiding the probe into the dispensing tube; forming a seal between the dispensing tube and the outer surface of the probe; releasably engaging a plug member with the locking portion of the probe; guiding the probe inwardly to guide the plug member from a sealed orientation to an unsealed orientation; and withdrawing a flowable material from the cavity of the flexible bag through the probe.

[0031] In some configurations, the method further includes the steps of: guiding the probe outwardly to guide the plug member from an unsealed orientation to a sealed orientation; releasing the plug member from the probe; and removing the probe from the dispensing tube.

[0032] In some configurations, the cap member further includes a tamper-evident cover positioned above the dispensing tube. In such a configuration, the method further includes the step of removing the tamper-evident cover before the step of guiding the probe into the dispensing tube.

[0033] In some configurations, the step of guiding the probe inwardly to guide the plug member from a sealed orientation to an unsealed orientation can occur while holding the probe within the passage of the nozzle. Description of the Drawings

[0034] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] In the drawings, Figure 1 is a perspective view of an assembly component of the present disclosure, the assembly component being coupled to a nozzle that is attachable to a flexible bag;

[0036] In the drawings, Figure 2 is a top plan view of the assembly component, the assembly component being coupled to a nozzle that is attachable to a flexible bag;

[0037] In the drawings, Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly component taken generally along Figure 2 line 3-3 of the assembly component coupled to a nozzle that is attachable to a flexible bag;

[0038] In the drawings, Figure 4 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the assembly component, the assembly component being coupled to a nozzle that is attachable to Figure 3 a flexible bag;

[0039] In the attached figure Figure 5 It is roughly along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of an assembly taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 5 , the assembly being coupled to a spout attachable to a flexible bag;

[0040] Figure Figure 6 is a perspective cutaway view of an assembly coupled to a spout that can be attached to Figure 5 Flexible bags;

[0041] In the attached figure Figure 7 It is roughly along Figure 3 a cross-sectional view of an assembly taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 1 , the assembly being coupled to a spout attachable to a flexible bag;

[0042] Figure Figure 8 is a perspective cutaway view of a spout for use with the assembly of the present disclosure;

[0043] Figure Figure 9 a cross-sectional view of a view of a spout for use with the assembly of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure Figure 10 is a perspective view of a cap member of the assembly assembly of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure Figure 11 is a perspective view of a cap member of the assembly assembly of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of a cap member of the assembly assembly of the present disclosure;

[0047] Figure Figure 13 is a perspective view of a plug member of the assembly of the present disclosure;

[0048] Figure Figure 14 is a bottom plan view of a plug member of the assembly of the present disclosure;

[0049] Figure Figure 15 It is roughly along Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the plug member of the assembly of the present disclosure taken along line 15-15;

[0050] Figure Figure 15b is a cross-sectional view of another plug member of the assembly of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure Figure 16 It is roughly along Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the plug member of the assembly of the present disclosure taken along line 16-16;

[0052] In the attached figure Figure 17Top plan view of an assembly component coupled to a spout that may be attached to a bag, with a probe having a dispensing tube extending through a cap member;

[0053] In the accompanying drawings Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly component taken generally along Figure 17 line 18-18, the assembly component being coupled to a spout that may be attached to a bag, wherein the probe extends through the dispensing tube of the cap member;

[0054] In the accompanying drawings Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly component taken generally along Figure 17 line 19-19, the assembly component being coupled to a spout that may be attached to a bag, wherein the probe extends through the dispensing tube of the cap member;

[0055] In the accompanying drawings Figure 20 is Figure 19 a cross-sectional view of the structure shown in

[0056] In the accompanying drawings Figure 21 is a perspective view of the probe;

[0057] In the accompanying drawings Figure 22 is a side view of the probe;

[0058] In the accompanying drawings Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the probe;

[0059] In the accompanying drawings Figure 24 is Figure 23 a second cross-sectional view of the probe taken at right angles to the view of

[0060] In the accompanying drawings Figure 25 is a perspective view of another probe; and

[0061] In the accompanying drawings Figure 26 is a flexible bag with a spout forming a flexible container, the flexible container having an assembly component coupled thereto. Detailed Description

[0062] Although the present disclosure admits of many different forms of embodiments, there are shown in the drawings and described in detail herein one or more specific embodiments, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification and is not intended to be limited to the one or more embodiments shown.

[0063] It should be understood that like or similar elements and / or components referred to herein may be identified throughout the drawings by the same reference numerals. Further, it should be understood that the drawings are merely schematic representations of the invention and, for purposes of clarity of illustration, some components may have been distorted from actual scale.

[0064] Referring now to the drawings, and specifically to Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 18 and Figure 26 , the assembly assembly is generally shown at 10. The assembly assembly is configured to be attached to the nozzle 310, which is attached to the flexible bag 300 (forming a flexible container). A probe (such as probe 350) can be coupled to the assembly assembly to selectively allow dispensing (and / or filling) of the flexible bag through the probe and the cap member. It is contemplated that the probe can be coupled to different types of dispensing machines that can remove the contents of the flexible bag through the probe.

[0065] The flexible bag is shown as including a plurality of panels 302 that are joined together with seals 304 (and / or folds) to define a fluid-tight chamber 306. An opening 308 is provided for communication with the chamber 306. The nozzle can be sealingly engaged with the flexible bag around the opening 308. The flexible bag can contain any number of different flowable materials, including but not limited to liquids, gels, creams, syrups, seasonings, condiments, beverages, but not limited thereto.

[0066] The nozzle 310 includes a base flange 312, an upright member 314, a center flange 316, and an upper flange 318. The base flange 312 includes a lower surface 320 and an upper surface 322. One of the upper and lower surfaces is attached to the flexible bag around the opening (or both, for example in the case of using multiple layers, and the multiple layers can be attached to only one of the surfaces) to sealingly engage therewith. The upright member 314 extends from the base flange and includes an outer surface 330 and an inner surface 332. The upright member extends from the base flange and terminates at an upper edge 334. The inner surface 332 of the upright member defines a passage that is in fluid communication (or can be placed in fluid communication) with the chamber of the flexible bag. At the upper end of the inner surface, a nozzle seal surface 338 is defined.

[0067] The center flange 316 extends around the outer surface 330 between the upper edge 334 of the upright member and the base flange 312. In the illustrated configuration, a single center flange is presented. In the illustrated configuration, the base flange and the center flange are parallel to each other and parallel to the plane defined by the upper edge. It should be understood that multiple center flanges can be provided on the outer surface of the upright member, and their orientation relative to the base flange and the upright member can vary.

[0068] The upper flange 318 includes an upper surface 340 and a lower surface 342 that defines a lower edge. As will be described below, the upper flange helps to hold the cap member to the nozzle.

[0069] Referring again to the drawings, the assembly component 10 includes a cap member 12, a plug member 14, and a tamper-evident cover 16. The cap member 12 includes a top platform 20, a spout coupling member 22, and a dispensing tube 24. In the illustrated configuration, the cap member includes an integrally molded polymer member, and other configurations (such as 3D printing, etc.) are conceivable. The top platform 20 includes an upper surface 30, a lower surface 32 opposite the upper surface 30, an outer surface 34, and a central opening 36. The upper surface is substantially planar across the outer surface and may also include arcuate guard bumps 39 extending outward therefrom (in this case, three arcuate guard bumps are positioned in a spaced-apart arcuate orientation, the outer edges of which are aligned with the outer surface 34 of the top platform and define valleys therebetween). The top platform and the interface with the overhanging skirt 40 define an outer flange 38. In the illustrated configuration, the top platform 20 is substantially circular, and the overhanging skirt is also circular. Of course, other configurations are conceivable for the cap member, as well as for the top platform and the overhanging skirt (and other components).

[0070] The spout coupling member 22 includes an overhanging skirt 40 and an inner overhanging skirt 50, which are generally radially spaced apart from each other and generally concentric with the central opening, wherein the overhanging skirt and the inner overhanging skirt define a channel 49 therebetween. The overhanging skirt 40 includes an inner surface 42 and an outer surface 46 terminating at a lower edge 48. The inner surface includes spout locking ribs 44 extending around and projecting inwardly (and angled on either side) of the inner surface. In the attached configuration, the spout locking ribs 44 engage with the upper flange to clamp the upper flange and prevent the cap member from accidentally detaching from the spout.

[0071] The inner overhanging skirt 50 includes an outer surface 52 and an inner surface 54 opposite the outer surface. The outer surface includes a sealing area 55 sized and configured to compressively engage with the spout sealing surface 338 at the upper end of the upright member of the spout.

[0072] The dispensing tube 24 surrounds the central opening 36 and, in the illustrated configuration, is axially spaced apart from its inner surface 54 concentrically with the inner overhanging skirt. The dispensing tube 24 includes an upper end 60 and a lower end 62, which define an elongated hole 64 having an inner surface 66. In the illustrated configuration, the dispensing tube extends further from the lower surface of the top platform than the inner overhanging skirt and the overhanging skirt, and in the illustrated configuration, the lower end of the dispensing tube is close to the lower end of the upright member of the spout.

[0073] The locking rib 68 extends circumferentially inwardly from the inner surface 66 of the distribution pipe between the upper and lower ends of the distribution pipe and, in the construction shown, is closer to the lower end of the distribution pipe. The locking rib includes an upper region 70, a central region 72, and a lower region 74. The lower region slopes from the inner surface of the distribution pipe toward the central region and has a smaller slope than the upper region, which also slopes from the inner surface toward the central region on the side opposite the lower region. In the construction shown, the vertical length of the upper region is substantially shorter than the vertical length of the lower region. As can be seen from the figure, the upper region 70 of the locking rib shape mates with the shape of the lower end 172 of the outward tab 170 of the head of the cap clip 84. Also, the lower region 74 provides a ramp to guide the head of the cap clip inwardly so that the cap clip can extend beyond the locking rib 68 by continued movement. The locking rib is configured to releasably lock with the cap clip of the plug member to facilitate retention between the cap clips when the probe is inserted.

[0074] The plug seal rib 69 is shown located between the locking rib 68 and the lower end 62 of the distribution pipe. The plug seal rib 69 includes an upper region 76, a middle region 78, and a lower region 79. The plug seal rib extends axially inwardly from the inner surface 66 of the distribution pipe for a distance that is not as far inward as the locking rib so as to substantially prevent interference with the cap clip of the plug member. In the construction shown, the cross-sectional configuration of the plug seal rib is substantially semi-circular such that the upper and lower regions are generally arcuately curved and generally mirror images of each other. The plug seal rib is configured to interfere with the seal region 124 of the base of the plug member 14 to form an airtight seal therebetween.

[0075] The plug member 14 is shown as including a base 80, plug clips 82, 82' and cap clips 84, 84'. The plug member also includes a molded polymer member, although other materials and manufacturing methods are conceivable. The base 80 of the plug member defines a lower region 90 and an upper region 92 opposite the lower region 90. The base is formed of a plurality of regions, such as a central hub region 94, an annular region 96, and a channel hoop region 98. The central hub region 94 includes an outer surface 100. The annular region 96 extends from the central hub region and includes an inner surface 102, a lower flange 104, and an upper surface 106. The channel hoop region 98 defines a channel 108 having a first surface 111 and a second surface 112. This channel 108 provides flexibility of the outer surface 116 relative to the central hub region and the annular region such that, upon sealing engagement, the outer surface is biased outwardly towards the inner surface of the dispensing tube. Additionally, the channel hoop region 98 defines an outer configuration having an inner surface 114 and an outer surface 116 and an upper portion 118 therebetween (and from which the plug and cap clips emanate). The inner surface meets the inner ring 120 of the upper portion 118 to define a chamfer, and the upper surface 106 and the inner surface 114 are preferably perpendicular to each other. It will be appreciated that the central hub 94, the inner surface of the annular region 102, and the inner surface 114 of the outer configuration, together with the lower wall, form a cavity to receive the locking portion 358 of the probe 350 (figure).

[0076] The outer surface 116 generally matches the shape of the inner surface of the dispensing tube and includes a sealing region 124. The sealing region 124 engages the plug seal rib 69 in a sealing engagement. Finally, a circumferential flange 99 extends around the lower end of the outer surface 116 and is configured to butt against the lower end 62 of the dispensing tube when the cap clip engages the upper region of the locking rib 68 of the dispensing tube 24, thereby preventing further insertion and forming the lowermost portion of the plug member. In the illustrated configuration, the circumferential flange and the central region together form the lower surface of the plug member and are substantially coplanar. When in the installed configuration, the lower surface is substantially parallel to the lower end of the dispensing tube and the base flange of the nozzle 110.

[0077] The plug clips 82, 82' are positioned on opposite sides of each other (i.e., 180° apart) and are generally mirror images of each other about a plane bisecting the plug member. Thus, the plug clip 82 will be described with the understanding that the plug clip 82' is structurally substantially the same. The plug clip 82 has an arcuate configuration that extends upwardly from the upper portion 118 of the base 80 (and preferably outside or spaced from the inner surface of the channel hoop region) and includes a stem portion 130 that terminates in a head 136. The stem portion 130 includes a lower end 132 and an upper end 134 located at the upper portion 118 of the base 80. The head 136 is positioned at the upper end 134 of the stem portion 130. The head 136 includes an outward tab 140 and an inward tab 148. The outward tab 140 includes a lower end 142, an upper end 144, and a central region 146 and is preferably substantially planar (i.e., defining a configuration generally concentric with the distribution tube). The configuration of the outward tab of the plug clip is such that the plug clip overrides the locking rib 68 and the plug seal rib 69 of the distribution tube, and upon insertion of the probe, the outward tab can engage the locking rib (i.e., the lower end 142 of the outward tab 140 engages the upper region 70 of the locking rib). The inward tab 148 is configured to have an upper end 150 that slopes inwardly to a central region 151 (to jointly define a generally conical configuration) and a lower end 152 that slopes inwardly to the central region 151. The slope of the upper end is less than the slope of the lower end, and the upper end is configured to butt against the plug to guide the clip outwardly, thereby allowing the plug to extend beyond the head, and the lower end engages the upper flange of the plug, thereby preventing the plug from being accidentally disconnected from the probe.

[0078] The cap clips 84, 84' are positioned on opposite sides of each other (i.e., 180° apart), and are generally mirror images of each other with respect to the plane bisecting the plug member. The cap clips 84, 84' are offset 90° from the plug clips 82, 82' such that the four clips are angularly equally spaced about the base of the plug member. The cap clip 84 will be described, it being understood that the cap clip 84' is substantially identical in structure. The cap clip 84 includes a stem portion 160 and a head portion 166. The stem portion 160 includes an upper end 162 and a lower end 164, where the lower end abuts the upper portion 118 of the plug member 14 (and preferably outside or spaced from the inner surface of the channel ferrule region). The lower ends of the stem portions 160, 160' of the cap clips are positioned closer to the center of the base than the lower ends of the stem portions 130, 130' of the plug clips such that the plug clips are on the inner side of the cap clips and the cap clips are on the outer side of the plug clips. The head portion 166 includes an outward tab 170 and an inward tab 178. The outward tab 170 includes a lower end 172, an upper end 174, and a central region 176. The lower end of the outward tab 170 is configured to engage the upper region 70 of the locking rib 68 when the plug member is installed in the dispensing tube. The upper end of the outward tab is configured to engage the lower region of the locking rib to push the cap clip inwardly and over the locking rib during installation. Although other configurations are conceivable, the inward tab 178 includes a face 179 that is configured to be substantially planar (i.e., together with the opposite inward tab 178' of the opposite cap clip defines a generally cylindrical configuration), allowing the probe to extend thereover while guiding the head outwardly to further engage the lower end of the outward tab with the upper region of the locking rib 68 of the pendant tube to prevent the plug from disengaging from the cap before the plug is fully coupled to the plug member. Preferably, as Figure 15b shown, the face 179 terminates at a flange 177 that is disposed perpendicular to the face 179.

[0079] The tamper-evident cover 16 is shown as including a frangible foil member that may be adhered to the upper surface 20 of the cap member 12. The tamper-evident cover may include a multi-layer material defining an upper surface 190 and a lower surface 192 opposite the upper surface 190. A plurality of pull tab outward bumps 196 are disposed about the outer perimeter 195 of the device. In the illustrated configuration, there are a total of four pull tab outward bumps that extend outwardly from the outer perimeter and are evenly disposed about the outer perimeter.

[0080] Generally referring Figures 18 to 25 to, and particularly referring Figures 21 to 24, the probe is shown at 350. The probe 350 includes a body 352 that defines a probe bore 353. The body includes an upper portion 354, a neck 356, and a locking portion 358. The upper portion 354 includes an outer surface 360, and the outer surface 360 includes a sealing member 362. The upper portion 354 is configured to be assembled within the bore 64 of the dispensing tube 24 of the cap member by an interference fit. The sealing member 362 may include an O-ring or a sealing rib formed in the outer surface to further preferably provide an airtight seal with the inner surface of the dispensing tube. In some configurations, the probe may be a polymeric material, while in other configurations, the probe may be a metal-based member (such as stainless steel, etc.).

[0081] The neck 356 includes an upper docking ridge 364 and a lower end 366. As will be appreciated, the upper docking ridge 364 abuts an upper region 70 of the locking rib 68 to prevent further insertion of the probe 350 into the dispensing tube. The lower end includes a bore opening 368 that allows fluid communication between the probe bore 353 and the cavity of the flexible bag when the plug member is disconnected from the cap member.

[0082] The locking portion 358 is configured to engage the plug member and maintain a connection with the plug member when the plug member is disconnected from and reconnected to the cap member. In particular, the locking portion extends from the neck and defines an upper end 370 and a lower end 372. The plug engagement end 374 includes a lower surface 376 and an outer surface 378. The lower surface and the outer surface are disposed against a central hub region 94 of the base of the plug member.

[0083] The clip engagement tab 380 extends around the outer surface of the locking portion 358 and includes a lower portion 382, an upper flange 384, and a central portion 386. The upper flange 384 and the lower end of the neck 366 cooperate to form a well portion 388 therebetween. The lower portion 382 of the clip engagement tab 380 is inclined outwardly (forming a conical configuration) and is configured to guide the clip outwardly during insertion of the probe. When the probe is inserted, the central flange maintains the outward direction of the clip, and the upper flange engages the lower end 152 of the plug clip 82 to maintain engagement.

[0084] In operation, a Figure 26 flexible container as shown is provided, and its flexible bag is filled with a flowable product, and an assembly component is provided thereon (i.e., coupled thereto, typically after filling). Initially, the plug member 14 is sealingly engaged with the dispensing tube 24 of the cap member, and the cap member is applied to the upright member of the spout 310 to seal the cavity of the flexible bag.

[0085] Additionally, the tamper-evident cover 16 extends over the central opening 36 in the top platform of the cap member 12. In the illustrated configuration, due to the orientation of the tab outwardly projecting bumps and their spacing about the outer periphery 195 of the tamper-evident cover 16, and the orientation of the protective bumps 39 on the upper surface 30 of the cap member 12 and their spacing about the outer periphery of the top platform 20, this spacing results in at least one tab outwardly projecting bump being positioned to correspond to a valley between adjacent protective bumps, regardless of the orientation of the cap member when the tamper-evident cover is applied and regardless of the orientation of the tamper-evident cover relative to the cap member. In such a configuration, a user can easily grasp and pull the tab outwardly projecting bump without being blocked or otherwise impeded by the protective bumps.

[0086] Once dispensing is desired, the probe 350 is coupled to the assembly component 10. Initially, the user peels back the tamper-evident cover 16 to expose the central opening 36 for insertion of the probe. In other configurations, the probe can be guided through the tamper-evident cover (breaking its frangible surface and exposing the central opening 36 of the cap member 12). The probe is then guided into the dispensing tube 24 toward the lower end of the dispensing tube 24. The relative dimensions of the sealing member 362 and the upper portion 354 of the probe 350 place the probe and the dispensing tube in a sealed engagement.

[0087] Ultimately, the locking portion 358 of the probe 350 initially reaches the plug member 14 in a sealed orientation. In particular, the probe 350 contacts the plug clips 82, 82' of the plug member (and can also contact the inwardly projecting tabs 170 of the cap clips 84, 84'). More specifically, the lower portion 382 of the locking portion 358 of the probe 350 contacts the upper end of the inwardly projecting tab 148 of the plug clip, pushing the plug clip outwardly. The cap clip can likewise be pushed outwardly. This outward pushing of the clips guides the outwardly projecting tabs of the plug clip and the cap clip into contact with the upper region 70 of the locking rib 68 of the dispensing tube. This locks the plug member relative to the dispensing tube while the probe continues to be inserted. Ultimately, the clips are pushed sufficiently outwardly and the lower portion of the lip engagement tab extends beyond the heads of the clips. The inwardly projecting tab of the clip engages the central portion of the clip engagement tab. Once the central portion passes through the head of the clip, the clip springs back to its initial stress-free configuration and the inwardly projecting tab can reside within the well 388 defined in the probe. Due to the different timing of engagement of the plug clip and the cap clip with the dispensing tube and the probe, this configuration causes the inwardly projecting tabs of at least two plug clips to extend inwardly beyond the inwardly projecting tabs of at least two cap clips, and the outwardly projecting tabs of at least two cap clips to extend outwardly beyond the outwardly projecting tabs of at least two plug clips. Such a configuration facilitates the sequential attachment and detachment of the probe and the plug member from each other and from the dispensing tube.

[0088] Further insertion of the probe pushes the plug member 14 relative to the cap member. This downward force on the plug member (due to the probe) causes the upper region 68 of the locking rib to sufficiently inwardly guide the outward tabs of the cap clip 84 into the well portion 388 so as to allow the plug and clip to pass over the locking rib, thereby disengaging the probe from the sealed orientation and into the unsealed orientation. Advantageously, while the overall height of the assembly component is minimized, it is preferred that the plug forms a seal and breaks the seal with the plug seal rib at the lower end of the dispensing tube, while the plug remains within the bounds of the spout (i.e., the passage formed by the upright member), and before the plug passes over the base flange 312 of the spout 310 and over the opening of the bag member so as to enter the cavity of the bag. That is, the plug member seal can be broken and / or reconnected while the plug does not extend into the cavity of the bag and while remaining within the passage of the upright member.

[0089] Once past the locking rib, the plug member can be completely disconnected from the cap member, and the probe can be further inserted into the dispensing tube until the upper docking rib 364 of the neck strikes the upper region 70 of the dispensing tube, where further insertion is blocked, thereby placing the plug in the outermost open orientation (which is the outermost position of the plug member within the unsealed orientation). At this time, the plug extends into the cavity of the bag, and preferably, at least a portion of the hole opening 368 is within the cavity of the flexible bag and is further in fluid communication with the cavity. The flowable material can be withdrawn from the cavity through the hole opening 368 and through the probe hole 353.

[0090] Once the desired amount of flowable material has been removed, the process can be reversed, and the probe can be withdrawn from the dispensing tube. As the probe is withdrawn, eventually, the upper ends 174 of the cap clips 84, 84' are inwardly guided by the lower region 74 of the dispensing tube such that the plug member can be further inserted into the dispensing tube. At the same time, the inward tabs 178 are inwardly guided to engage the upper flange 385 of the probe 350 to prevent the probe from disconnecting from the plug member. Eventually, the plug reaches the end of its travel, where the outward tabs of the cap clip have extended past the locking rib, and where the circumferential flange 99 has engaged the lower end 62 of the dispensing tube (before the plug member makes a sealed engagement with the dispensing tube, the plug member returns to the bounds of the spout member). Additionally, the sealing region 124 of the outer surface 116 of the base makes a sealed engagement with the plug seal rib 69 at the lower end of the dispensing tube, thereby completing the placement into the sealed orientation.

[0091] Further outward withdrawal of the probe member guides the probe clip sufficiently to allow the locking portion to separate from the probe clip, and the probe can be slidably withdrawn. It should be understood that the movement of the probe relative to the assembly member can be achieved by the movement of the assembly component relative to the stationary probe, the movement of the probe relative to the stationary assembly component, and / or the movement of both the probe and the assembly component relative to each other.

[0092] The foregoing description merely explains and illustrates the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto, except as limited by the appended claims, since those skilled in the art having the present disclosure before them will be able to make modifications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An assembly component, the assembly component being attachable to a nozzle, the assembly component comprising: - A cap member, comprising: - A top platform having an upper surface and a lower surface, - A nozzle coupling member, the nozzle coupling member comprising an outer overhanging skirt and an inner overhanging skirt spaced from the outer overhanging skirt, a channel being formed between the outer overhanging skirt and the inner overhanging skirt, the channel being structurally configured to receive the nozzle in a sealing engagement manner; and - A distribution pipe, the distribution pipe defining an elongated hole spaced from the inner overhanging skirt, the distribution pipe defining an upper end portion and terminating at a lower end portion, the upper end portion being close to the lower surface of the top platform, the distribution pipe further comprising an inner surface having a locking rib positioned between the upper end portion and the lower end portion, and a plug sealing rib close to between the locking rib and the lower end portion; and - A plug member, the plug member comprising: - A base having a central region and an outer surface, the outer surface having a sealing region extending around the outer surface, the sealing region being structurally configured to sealingly engage the plug sealing rib of the distribution pipe; - At least two plug clips, the at least two plug clips being positioned opposite to each other and extending from the base, each plug clip comprising a stem portion and terminating at a head, the head comprising an inward tab and an outward tab opposite to the inward tab; and - At least two cap clips, the at least two cap clips being positioned opposite to each other and extending from the base and spaced from the at least two plug clips so as to alternate with the plug clips, each cap clip comprising a stem portion terminating at a head, the head comprising an inward tab and an outward tab, the outward tab being structurally configured to releasably engage the locking rib of the distribution pipe when the plug member is in a sealing orientation; - Wherein the inward tabs of the at least two plug clips extend inwards beyond the inward tabs of the at least two cap clips, and the outward tabs of the at least two cap clips extend outwards beyond the outward tabs of the at least two plug clips.

2. The assembly component according to claim 1, further comprising: - A tamper-proof cover, the tamper-proof cover being removably positionable above the upper surface of the top platform, the tamper-proof cover having an outer periphery, the outer periphery having a plurality of tab outward bumps extending outwards from the outer periphery in spaced orientations; and - Wherein the upper surface of the top platform further comprises a plurality of protective bumps extending from the surface and spaced from each other at the outer surface of the top platform, the protective bumps defining valleys therebetween; and - Wherein regardless of the orientation of the tamper-proof cover on the top surface, the spacing between the protective bumps around the top platform and the tab outward bumps of the tamper-proof cover results in at least one tab outward bump being aligned with the valley between two of the plurality of protective bumps.

3. The assembly component according to claim 2, wherein three protective bumps are evenly spaced around the top platform from each other, and four tab outward bumps are evenly spaced around the outer periphery of the tamper-proof cover from each other.

4. The assembly component according to claim 1, wherein the channel hoop region extends around the central region, wherein the outer surface forms part of the central region and further defines a channel between the outer surface and the central region, the channel providing flexibility such that when in sealing engagement with the plug seal rib of the dispensing tube, the annular region is biased outwardly against the plug seal rib.

5. The assembly component according to claim 4, wherein a circumferential flange extends around the lower end of the outer surface and is configured to interface with the lower end of the dispensing tube when the plug member is in the sealing orientation.

6. The assembly component according to claim 5, wherein the circumferential flange and the central region of the base are substantially coplanar and define the lower surface of the plug member.

7. The assembly component according to claim 6, wherein the circumferential flange and the outer surface are substantially perpendicular to each other.

8. The assembly component according to claim 4, wherein the central region further includes an annular region outside thereof and inside the channel hoop region, the channel hoop region having an inner surface extending from the upper surface of the annular region, wherein the central region, the upper surface and the inner surface cooperate together to form a cavity structurally configured to receive the lower end of the probe, and the inner surface and the upper surface of the annular region are substantially perpendicular to each other.

9. The assembly component according to claim 8, wherein the stem portion of each of the at least two plug clips and the stem portion of each of the at least two cap clips are spaced apart from the inner surface of the channel hoop region.

10. The assembly component according to claim 9, wherein the stem portion of each of the at least two plug clips and the stem portion of each of the at least two cap clips are spaced apart from the outer surface.

11. The assembly component according to claim 1, wherein the stem portions of the at least two plug clips are inside the stem portions of the at least two cap clips.

12. The assembly component according to claim 1, wherein the locking rib and the plug seal rib are spaced apart from each other along the inner surface of the dispensing tube.

13. The assembly component according to claim 1, wherein the plug seal rib is spaced apart from the lower end of the dispensing tube.

14. The assembly component according to claim 1, wherein the inward tabs of each of the at least two cap clips define surfaces such that the two opposing surfaces of the inward tabs of the at least two cap clips define a cylindrical configuration.

15. The assembly component according to claim 14, wherein the inward tabs of each of the at least two cap clips terminate at a flange at the lower end, wherein the flange is perpendicular to the surface.

16. A flexible container, comprising: - a flexible bag having a plurality of panels, the panels having a plurality of seals to define a cavity and having an opening providing communication with the cavity; - A nozzle having a base flange and an upright member extending from the base flange and terminating in an upper edge, the base flange being fluid - sealingly joined around the opening to the bag, the upright member defining a passage in fluid communication with the chamber; and - The assembly component according to claim 1, wherein the upright member extends into the passage formed by the inner overhanging skirt and the outer overhanging skirt and is sealingly joined therein.

17. The flexible container according to claim 16, wherein the opening is formed in a panel among the plurality of panels.

18. The flexible container according to claim 16, further comprising a central flange disposed on an outer surface of the upright member, wherein the outer overhanging skirt is spaced apart from the central flange.

19. The flexible container according to claim 16, wherein the dispensing tube and the plug member are structurally configured such that the plug member can travel between a sealed orientation and an unsealed orientation while the plug member remains within the passage of the upright member.

20. The flexible container according to claim 16, wherein the plug member is structurally configured to extend completely beyond the passage of the upright member.

21. A probe configured to be used in combination with the flexible container according to claim 16, the probe comprising a body, the body including: - An outer surface and an inner bore, the probe being structurally configured to be insertable into the dispensing tube of a cap member; - A locking portion disposed at a lower end of the body; - A sealing member disposed around the outer surface and spaced apart from the locking portion, the seal being configured for sealing engagement between the dispensing tube and the body of the probe; - A probe bore extending through and terminating at a bore opening through the outer surface, the bore opening being defined between the locking portion and the seal; - An upper docking ridge positioned between an upper portion and the locking portion, the upper docking ridge being configured to engage the locking rib to prevent further insertion of the probe into the dispensing tube; - The locking portion is structurally configured to engage a plug clip of the plug member for releasable engagement therewith, wherein the probe is configured to guide the plug member between a sealed orientation and a non - sealed orientation while being releasably coupled to the plug member.

22. The probe according to claim 21, wherein, Before the probe guides the plug member from the sealed orientation to the non - sealed orientation, the sealing member sealingly engages the dispensing tube in a sealed manner.

23. The probe according to claim 21, wherein, The locking portion further includes: - An upper end and a lower end; - A clip - engaging tab structurally configured to engage at least the inward tabs of the at least two plug clips of the cap member while being able to elastically deform the at least two plug clips of the cap member during engagement; - A well portion defining a passage positioned between the dispensing opening and the clip - engaging tab, the well portion being configured to receive at least the inward tabs of the at least two plug clips.

24. A dispensing method, comprising the steps of: - Providing the flexible container according to claim 16; - Provide the probe according to claim 21 - Guide the probe into the dispensing tube; - Form a seal between the dispensing tube and the outer surface of the probe; - Engage the plug member releasably with the locking portion of the probe; - Guide the probe inwardly to guide the plug member from a sealed orientation to an unsealed orientation; and - Withdraw the flowable material from the cavity of the flexible bag through the probe.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising the steps of: - Guide the probe outwardly to guide the plug member from an unsealed orientation to a sealed orientation; - Release the plug member from the probe; and - Remove the probe from the dispensing tube.

26. The method according to claim 24, wherein, The cap member further includes a tamper-proof cover positioned above the dispensing tube, and the method further includes the step of: - Remove the tamper-proof cover before the step of guiding the probe into the dispensing tube.

27. The method according to claim 24, wherein The step of guiding the probe inwardly to guide the plug member from a sealed orientation to an unsealed orientation can occur while the probe is held within the channel of the nozzle.

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