Dispensing system

Abstract

The invention relates to a dispensing system (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) for dispensing a bulk material (1), the dispensing system comprising: a flexible or semi-flexible bag (10) comprising: a compartment (11) for storing the bulk material (1); a distribution section (12); and a hanging part (13) by means of which the bag (10) can be hung in such a way that the bulk material (1) can flow out of the bag (10) from the compartment (11) via the dispensing section (12) under the action of gravity; a dispensing mechanism (110, 210, 310, 410, 510) attached to the bag (10), where the dispensing mechanism (110, 210, 310, 410, 510) comprises two components (111, 112; 211, 212; 311, 312; 311, 312; 411, 412; 411, 412; 511, 512) which are manually movable relative to each other so as to be moved between a closed position in which the dispensing section (12) is dispensed by the two parts (111, 112; 211, 212; 311, 312; 311, 312; 411, 412; 411, 412; 511, 512) in order to prevent the bulk material (1) from flowing out of the bag (10) via the dispensing section (12); in the open position, the dispensing section (12) is moved by the two parts (111, 112; 211, 212; 311, 312; 311, 312; 411, 412; 411, 412; 511, 512) is deployed or allowed to be deployed to form a dispensing channel (12.4) such that the bulk material (1) can flow out of the bag (10) from the compartment (11) via the dispensing section (12) under gravity; and a resilient element (120, 220, 320, 420, 520) arranged to force the two components (111, 112; 211, 212; 311, 312; 311, 312; 411, 412; 411, 412; 511, 512) is oriented towards the closed position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a dispensing system for dispensing bulk materials. Background Art

[0002] A dispensing system for dispensing bulk materials includes components that come into direct contact with the bulk material (e.g., food) and remain in the system. The system can be part of a store. These components need to be cleaned frequently to meet quality requirements and / or hygiene regulations. However, many users (such as retailers) lack the appropriate equipment or training to manage such cleaning well. Therefore, special measures (such as cleaning by qualified personnel) need to be taken to clean these components, which has an impact on costs. If such measures are not taken, the cleaning cannot be carried out properly, thus posing a risk to the quality and safety of the product (food, etc.). In addition, the dispensing system is relatively complex and requires significant investment from users.

[0003] In view of the above, there is a need for a dispensing system for dispensing bulk materials in a simpler and more cost-effective manner.

[0004] The object and other objects that become apparent after reading the following description are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. The dependent claims relate to preferred embodiments of the present invention. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The object of the present invention is achieved by a dispensing system for dispensing bulk materials, the dispensing system comprising:

[0006] A flexible or semi-flexible bag, the flexible or semi-flexible bag comprising:

[0007] · A compartment for storing the bulk material;

[0008] · A dispensing section; and

[0009] · A hanging part, the bag being capable of being suspended by the hanging part such that the bulk material can flow out of the bag under the action of gravity from the compartment via the dispensing section (e.g., through the dispensing section or through an opening in the dispensing section);

[0010] A dispensing mechanism attached to the bag, wherein the dispensing mechanism comprises two components that can be manually moved relative to each other to move between the following positions:

[0011] · A closed position, in which the dispensing section is closed by the two components to prevent the bulk material from flowing out of the bag via the dispensing section; and

[0012] · An open position, in which the dispensing section is unfolded or allowed to unfold by the two components to form a dispensing channel, such that the bulk material can flow out of the bag from the compartment via the dispensing section under the action of gravity; and

[0013] An elastic element, which is arranged to urge the two components towards the closed position.

[0014] The bag and the dispensing mechanism are made of the following materials: a) a cellulose-based material or a material composition, which together contain at least 70% by weight of cellulose fibers; or b) a single material.

[0015] The so-called "single material" generally refers to a material assembled from different types of constituent materials (in the form of separate layers or elements, or as a compound or mixture), but wherein the constituent materials have the same chemical type (e.g., polyethylene or polypropylene). The use of such constituent materials of the same chemical type or family in the same material enables a composite material, which can have various functions (e.g., oxygen barrier, moisture barrier, light shielding, etc.), but can be recycled as a whole or generally biodegraded / composted during the recycling or biodegradation process specific to a single chemical type of material. In other words, it is not necessary to disassemble and separate its components before recycling or biodegradation / composting.

[0016] The dispensing system enables the dispensing of bulk materials from the bag without additional dispensing components. Specifically, the dispensing system simplifies operations, for example, in a store. For example, since the bag is provided with its own dispensing mechanism, there is no need for additional investment in a dispenser or a dispensing mechanism. This saves costs. Additionally, there is no need to clean the components that come into direct contact with the bulk material (e.g., food). Instead, the dispensing system including the bag and the dispensing mechanism can be placed into a recycling stream (such as a paper recycling stream) after use (e.g., when the bag is empty). Therefore, there is no need for cumbersome cleaning of hard-to-reach and / or clean components, thus saving costs.

[0017] Since the dispensing system includes its own dispensing mechanism (such as a shutter mechanism or a clamping mechanism), the user of the system (e.g., before initially dispensing the bulk material from the bag) does not need to attach a dispensing mechanism to regulate the gravity-affected flow of the bulk material. This simplifies the dispensing of the bulk material. Thus, the bulk material can be dispensed in a safe and hygienic manner without taking special measures or having relevant knowledge. In addition, the dispensing system has a simple and lightweight structure due to its material and / or material composition. The dispensing system can be obtained by using a particularly small number of components. Moreover, since the dispensing mechanism and the bag are made of defined materials (compositions), even if the bag is provided with its own dispensing mechanism, the weight of the system and the amount of material used per product weight can be low.

[0018] The arrangement of the dispensing mechanism and the elastic element is such that the default position is the closed position, enabling the bulk material to be dispensed in a simple manner, such as with only one human hand and / or with only a few (e.g., only two or even only one) human fingers. When no external force acts on the dispensing mechanism, for example, since the user can simply release their hand or finger from the two components, the components can (automatically) return to the closed position by the restoring force of the elastic element. Thus, the user does not need to apply an external force on the dispensing mechanism (such as one or both of the two components) to move the two components to the closed position. Specifically, the components can be biased towards the closed position by the elastic element.

[0019] The material selection for the bag and the dispensing mechanism is such that the entire material of the dispensing system is easily decomposed, dissolved, and separated during the recycling process, such as being designed for the recycling process of cellulose materials such as paper or cardboard or for the recycling process of polymer materials. The elastic element can be arranged such that it does not have a negative impact on the recycling ability of the dispensing system. For example, the elastic element can be attached by form-fitting and / or friction-fitting (such as by one or more protrusions and / or one or more recesses included in the two components and / or by the restoring force of the elastic element). Thus, the elastic element can be easily removed from the rest of the dispensing system in order to be placed in a recycling stream (e.g., for rubber or metal), which is different from the recycling stream in which the rest of the dispensing system can be recycled (e.g., a recycling stream for cellulose materials such as paper or cardboard or for a single material such as polymer / plastic). In addition, the attachment of the dispensing mechanism to the bag can ensure that the dispensing mechanism is not easily lost relative to the bag. Thus, it can be effectively ensured that the dispensing mechanism is recycled together with the bag.

[0020] The dispensing section can include an upstream section, a collapsible section, and a downstream section, where the two components are attached to the upstream section and the downstream section. In the closed position, the collapsible section is folded to prevent the bulk material from flowing out of the bag via the dispensing section, and in the open position, the collapsible section is unfolded or allowed to unfold to form the dispensing channel. Thus, the flow of the bulk material can be controlled in a particularly easy manner. The collapsible section can extend from the upstream section to the downstream section. The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the flow of the bulk material from the compartment, via the dispensing section, to a position outside the bag. In other words, when the bag is positioned (e.g., hung) such that the bulk material can flow out of the bag from the compartment via the dispensing section under the action of gravity, the downstream section is positioned below the upstream section.

[0021] The collapsible section can include two sub-sections, where in the closed position, the sub-sections are folded parallel or crosswise to each other, such as folded to form a U-shape, a V-shape, or any other shape, such as a W-shape. By folding the collapsible section in such a way, the bulk material can be prevented from flowing out of the bag via the dispensing section in a particularly effective manner. For example, the folding results in a reduced cross-section of the collapsible section and / or the path defined by the collapsible section becomes tortuous, thereby preventing the flow of the bulk material via the dispensing section. For example, the collapsible section can be folded to form one or more connecting sections (e.g., having a curved form), and the one or more connecting sections can include a connecting section that connects the two sub-sections to each other. The connecting section can include two additional connecting sections that can connect the collapsible section to the upstream section and the downstream section, respectively.

[0022] The sub-sections can extend at an angle to each other, where in the closed position, the angle is less than the angle in the open position, such as including within the range of 0° to 45°. Thus, the flow of the bulk material via the dispensing section can be controlled in a particularly easy manner. In the open position, the sub-sections can be arranged such that the dispensing channel extends along a straight line or along a path that (slightly) deviates from a straight line, such as having a slightly curved or arched form that can still allow the bulk material to flow. For example, in the open position, the angle between the sub-sections can include within the range of 90° to 180°, preferably within the range of 130° to 180°, more preferably within the range of 150° to 180°.

[0023] The collapsible section can be pre-folded. For example, the collapsible section can include one or more features (creases, weakened portions, portions that are more flexible than the rest of the collapsible section, etc.), the one or more features being arranged such that the collapsible section (especially its sub-sections) can be folded into a defined shape. The collapsible section can be pre-folded by making creases. Thereby, one or more joints (e.g., in the form of lines) can be formed, the one or more joints facilitating folding the collapsible section into a (pre-)defined shape, such as folding into a shape where the sub-sections are parallel or cross each other, such as a U-shape or a V-shape.

[0024] The two components can include a rod and a through-opening, wherein the rod extends through the through-opening such that the two components are linearly guided relative to each other. Thus, the two components are arranged in a very compact manner and can be easily moved relative to each other. By the rod and the through-hole, the two components can be arranged to slide relative to each other along the direction defined by the rod. This linear guidance of the components relative to each other also allows the dispensing mechanism to be operated particularly easily. For example, the component attached to the upstream section of the dispensing section includes the through-opening, and the component attached to the downstream section of the dispensing section includes the rod. Thereby, the dispensing mechanism is arranged with the bag in a particularly compact manner.

[0025] The rod can include a gripping section, such as a recess or a hole (opening, through-hole, etc.), wherein the gripping section is preferably provided at the distal end of the rod. By the gripping section, the rod and thus at least one of the components can be easily operated or gripped, for example by using human fingers that can hold the gripping section.

[0026] In this closed position, the component can define a space, wherein at least one of the components (such as the component including the through-opening) includes a gripping area that defines the space, such that by manually operating the gripping area, the component can be moved to the open position. Thus, the components can be manually moved relative to each other in a particularly easy manner. The gripping area can be a recessed part. Specifically, the space can be accessed by a human finger, such that once accessed, the finger can push the gripping area and thus push the component including the gripping area away from at least a part of the other component, whereby the component is moved to the open position. The components can be arranged such that by moving the gripping section of the rod and the gripping area towards each other, the component can be moved to the open position. Thus, by respectively grasping the gripping section and the gripping area with two fingers and then moving the fingers towards each other, the component can be moved to the open position. Another component of the components (such as the component including the rod) can include an additional gripping area (e.g., a recessed part) that defines the space. The additional gripping area can be arranged such that the (first) gripping area can be more easily accessed by a human finger.

[0027] The elastic element can be coiled, a spring and / or a band. The elastic element can be made of a synthetic material such as rubber and / or metal. The elastic element, the bag and the dispensing mechanism, or the elastic element and the rest of the dispensing system can be made of the same material or material composition, or can be made of different materials or different material compositions. The elastic element is preferably made of recyclable material.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the elastic element surrounds and / or wraps the component. By such an arrangement, the elastic element is easily accessible for removal from the rest of the system, thereby particularly enhancing the recyclability of the system. The component can include a recess (such as a groove) in which at least a part of the elastic element extends. Thus, the elastic element is firmly accommodated by the component while being easily removable from the component, for example for recycling.

[0029] The two components can include a retainer and a strip, where the strip includes a deformable (e.g., collapsible) section that can move relative to the retainer between a retracted state and an extended state, where in the closed position, the dispensing section is closed by the retainer and the deformable section in the retracted state, and where in the open position, the dispensing section is unfolded or allowed to unfold by the deformable section in the extended state to form the dispensing channel. Thus, by deforming the strip, such as by squeezing the strip, the flow of the bulk material through the dispensing section can be easily controlled. In the retracted state and / or the extended state, the deformable section can protrude relative to the retainer. In the retracted state, the deformable section can at least partially retract into the retainer (such as into the space of the retainer), and / or can arch to a lesser extent than in the extended state. By moving the deformable section to its extended state, the deformable section can collapse.

[0030] In the open position, the dispensing section can be surrounded by at least a portion of the strip (such as the deformable section in the extended state) and the retainer.

[0031] The strip can include two manually operable ends that can move towards each other to move the deformable section from the retracted state to the extended state. Thus, the operation of the dispensing system is particularly simple and intuitive. For example, each of the ends can be operated by a corresponding finger to squeeze or clamp the strip, and thus move the deformable section to the extended state to subsequently dispense the bulk material through the dispensing channel.

[0032] The strip can be linearly guided by the retainer. Thus, the dispensing mechanism can be made compact. The retainer can include one or more guide rails through which the ends of the strip are linearly guided. The one or more guide rails can define and / or face the space of the retainer, where at least a portion of the deformable section in the retracted state can be arranged in the space.

[0033] The retainer can include edges, such as an upstream edge and / or a downstream edge, where in the closed position, the dispensing section is closed by the deformable section in the retracted state and the edge. Through the edge, the dispensing section can be closed particularly well (e.g., collapsed and / or folded) to prevent the bulk material from flowing out of the bag.

[0034] In this closed position, the retainer and the strip can define a space, wherein the strip includes a gripping area that defines the space, such that by manually operating the gripping area, the deformable section can move from its retracted state to its extended state. Thus, the operation of the dispensing mechanism is particularly easy and intuitive. The gripping area can be a recessed portion. Specifically, the space can be accessed by a human finger, such that once inside, the finger can push the gripping area and thus deform the strip, whereby the component moves to the open position. One of the ends of the strip can include the gripping area. Preferably, the strip includes at least two gripping areas, wherein each end of the strip includes a respective one of the gripping areas. Thus, by moving the gripping areas towards each other, the strip can be deformed such that the deformable section enters the extended state, thereby moving the component to the open position. Thus, by grasping the gripping areas with two fingers respectively and then moving the fingers towards each other, the component can be moved to the open position.

[0035] The elastic element can be arranged to urge the deformable section into its retracted state. Thus, once the hand is released from the strip, the deformable section can return (automatically) to its (default) retracted state by the elastic element. Thus, the operation of the dispensing mechanism is simplified.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, one end of the elastic element is connected to the strip and the other end of the elastic element is connected to the retainer. By such an arrangement, the elastic element can be easily accessed for removal from the rest of the system, thereby particularly enhancing the recyclability of the system. The retainer and / or the strip can include recesses (such as grooves) and / or protrusions, at least a portion of the elastic element extending in the recesses and at least a portion of the elastic element extending around the protrusions. Thereby, the elastic element is firmly accommodated by the component while being able to be easily removed from the component, for example for recycling.

[0037] In one embodiment, the two components include a wall and a rod, the wall at least partially surrounding an upstream section of the dispensing section, the rod being connected to the wall and preferably integrally formed with the wall, wherein in the closed position, a downstream section of the dispensing section is clamped between the rod and the wall so as to close the dispensing section. By moving the rod away from the wall, the dispensing section can be unfolded or allowed to unfold to form the dispensing channel.

[0038] In one embodiment, the two components include two rods, each rod including a respective raised section, and wherein in the closed position, the raised sections clamp an upstream section and a downstream section of the dispensing section so as to close the dispensing section. For example, the raising of one of the rods can clamp the upstream section of the dispensing section, and the raising of the other rod can clamp the downstream section of the dispensing section. Thus, the dispensing section not only becomes clamped, but also becomes tortuous due to the raised sections respectively arranged on the upstream section and the downstream section, thereby closing the dispensing section in a particularly effective manner.

[0039] The bag and the dispensing mechanism can be made of a cellulose-based material or a material composition, and together the bag and the dispensing mechanism contain at least 80% by weight of cellulose fibers, preferably at least 90% by weight of cellulose fibers, more preferably at least 95% by weight of cellulose fibers.

[0040] The dispensing mechanism can be made of cardboard and / or paper. Thus, the dispensing mechanism can be manufactured very simply and be lightweight. The cardboard can be corrugated and / or can have a grammage of at least 200 g / m2, such as in the range of 250 g / m2 to 600 g / m2. The dispensing mechanism can be made of a plurality of plates and / or sheets. The dispensing mechanism can include a sandwich structure. For example, the plates and / or sheets can have different shapes, such as including openings with different shapes. The plates and / or sheets can be attached to each other, for example, by using an adhesive (such as glue), especially a reversible adhesive. Once the plates and / or sheets are attached to each other, they can form the sandwich structure.

[0041] At least a part of the bag can be made of paper and / or cardboard. The bag can have an oxygen barrier function and / or a moisture barrier function. The bag can include a multi-layer structure having an oxygen barrier function and / or a moisture barrier function. For example, at least one layer of the multi-layer structure can be made of paper and / or cardboard.

[0042] The multi-layer structure can include an outer layer, one or more intermediate layers, and an inner layer. The inner layer can be arranged such that it can contact the product to be packaged (i.e., the bulk material).

[0043] The outer layer can be made of paper and / or cardboard, for example, having a grammage in the range of 30 g / m2 to 200 g / m2. Preferably, the outer layer is a paper layer.

[0044] The intermediate layer can include at least one organic barrier layer of a polymer, the at least one organic barrier layer being selected from the list consisting of polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH), butanediol-vinyl alcohol copolymer (BVOH), or combinations thereof, the amount of the polymer preferably being from 0.5 g / m2 to 20 g / m2, more preferably the amount thereof being from 1 g / m2 to 10 g / m2, and even more preferably the amount thereof being from 2 g / m2 to 8 g / m2.

[0045] The intermediate layer can include at least one inorganic barrier layer, the at least one inorganic barrier layer being selected from the list consisting of metals, metalloids, or combinations thereof, the inorganic layer preferably having a thickness between 1 nm and 100 nm.

[0046] The inner layer can include at least one organic heat-sealing layer, the at least one organic heat-sealing layer preferably being applied in an amount of from 2 g / m2 to 20 g / m2, preferably in an amount of from 4 g / m2 to 9 g / m2.

[0047] Preferably, the organic heat-sealing layer is made of an acrylic or methacrylic acid polymer grafted with at least one type of ionomer. More preferably, the ionomer grafted onto the acrylic or methacrylic acid polymer is a sodium ionomer.

[0048] Preferably, the inorganic layer comprises a metal or metalloid selected from the list consisting of aluminum, aluminum oxide (AlOx), or silicon oxide (SiOx), the metal and / or the metalloid being capable of being deposited by vacuum deposition or transfer metallization.

[0049] The two components may be more rigid than the bag. In other words, the two components may be less flexible than the bag.

[0050] The dispensing system can include a tamper-evident element arranged to indicate initial and / or unauthorized manipulation of the component, such as initial and / or unauthorized movement of the component into the open position. Thus, the dispensing system can be tamper-evident by means of the tamper-evident element. For example, the tamper-evident element can be arranged such that once the component is moved to the open position, the tamper-evident element (such as a lid) is at least partially destroyed (removed, cut, etc.). In the destroyed state, a part of the tamper-evident element can be separated from another part, such as from another part included in the tamper-evident element. The tamper-evident element can include a weakened portion (such as a tear line) arranged such that when the dispensing mechanism is manipulated (specifically, when the dispensing mechanism is operated to move to the open position), the tamper-evident element is destroyed in the weakened portion, which may mean that the tamper-evident element is torn along the tear line.

[0051] As used in this specification, the words "comprising", "including" and similar words are not to be construed as having an exclusive or exhaustive meaning. In other words, they are intended to mean "including, but not limited to". BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be described in the following description of presently preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, and will be apparent from the description, in which:

[0053] Figure 1 shows a schematic front view of a dispensing system according to a first embodiment;

[0054] Figure 2 shows Figure 1 a schematic perspective view of the dispensing mechanism of the system shown;

[0055] Figure 3A and Figure 3B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the dispensing mechanism, with the components of the mechanism in the closed and open positions respectively;

[0056] Figures 4A to 4G schematically shows a method including Figure 1 the dispensing system shown;

[0057] Figure 5A and Figure 5B respectively show schematic perspective views of the dispensing mechanism of the dispensing system according to the first embodiment in a disassembled state and an assembled state;

[0058] Figure 6 shows a schematic top view of the components for setting up the dispensing mechanism of the dispensing system according to the first embodiment;

[0059] Figure 7 shows an example of a bag;

[0060] Figure 8 shows a schematic front view of a dispensing system according to a second embodiment;

[0061] Figure 9A and Figure 9B respectively show Figure 8 a schematic perspective view and a schematic front view of the dispensing mechanism of the system shown, with the components of the dispensing mechanism in the open position;

[0062] Figure 10A and Figure 10B shows Figure 8 a schematic cross-sectional view of the dispensing mechanism shown, with the components of the mechanism in the closed and open positions respectively;

[0063] Figures 11A to 11C schematically shows a method including Figure 8 the dispensing system shown;

[0064] Figure 12 shows a schematic front view of a dispensing system according to a third embodiment;

[0065] Figure 13 shows Figure 12 a schematic perspective view of the dispensing mechanism of the system shown, wherein the components of the dispensing mechanism are in an open position;

[0066] Figure 14A and Figure 14B shows Figure 13 a schematic cross-sectional view of the dispensing mechanism shown, wherein the components of the mechanism are in a closed position and an open position, respectively;

[0067] Figure 15 shows a schematic front view of a dispensing system according to a fourth embodiment;

[0068] Figure 16 shows Figure 15 a schematic perspective view of the dispensing mechanism of the system shown, wherein the components of the dispensing mechanism are in an open position;

[0069] Figure 17A and Figure 17B shows Figure 16 a schematic cross-sectional view of the dispensing mechanism shown, wherein the components of the mechanism are in a closed position and an open position, respectively; and

[0070] Figure 18 shows a schematic perspective view of a dispensing system according to a fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] Generally speaking, in this specification, "fiber" means cellulose fibers usually extracted from plants, seeds or trees; such fibers contain not only cellulose molecules, but also hemicellulose and lignin.

[0072] The drawings show different embodiments of the dispensing (or delivery) system of the present invention. The dispensing system can be a so-called "alternative delivery system" (ADS). In the embodiments shown, the dispensing system is adapted to dispense bulk material 1. The bulk material 1 can be food. The bulk material 1 can include dry and / or solid materials. The bulk material 1 can include loose materials, or can be loose materials. The bulk material 1 can be a bulk flowable product, and / or can include powders and / or ground foods and / or any other solid form that can be dispensed when flowing under the action of gravity. For example, the bulk material 1 includes coffee beans or grains.

[0073] In Figure 1 Example 1 illustrates dispensing system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0074] Dispensing system 100 includes a flexible or semi-flexible bag (or pouch) 10, which includes: a compartment 11 for storing bulk material 1; and a dispensing section 12. The dispensing section 12 can be (fluidly) connected to the compartment 11. The bag 10 further includes a hanging portion 13 through which the bag 10 can be hung such that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10 from the compartment 11 under the action of gravity via (e.g., through) the dispensing section 12. Through the hanging portion 13, the bag 10 can be hung upside down. The hanging portion 13 can include an opening and / or a hook. Additionally or alternatively, the hanging portion 13 can include a section that can be clamped by a clamp. Thus, by clamping this section of the hanging portion 13 by the clamp, the bag 10 can be hung. This section can be flat and / or can be part of a seam (such as a weld and / or a fin seal). This section can be arranged such that clamping this section does not affect (reduce, etc.) the volume defined by the compartment 11.

[0075] The dispensing section 12 can include an opening 12a through which the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10. Thus, when the bulk material 1 flows out of the bag 10 via the dispensing section 12, the bulk material 1 can flow through the opening 12a. The opening 12a can be initially closed by a closure. The closure can be integrally formed with the bag 10 and / or an integral part of the bag 10. For example, the closure or a part of the bag 10 can be removed, e.g., by cutting and / or tearing, to expose the opening 12a.

[0076] The dispensing section 12 can be formed differently from the compartment 11. For example, the cross-section of the dispensing section 12 is narrower or smaller than the cross-section of the compartment 11. The dispensing section 12 can be or can form a nozzle and / or a tube. The bag 10 can include a tapered section 14 connecting the compartment 11 to the dispensing section 13. Through the tapered section 14, it can be ensured that the compartment 11 can be completely emptied under the action of gravity, i.e., no bulk material 1 that cannot be dispensed only under the action of gravity remains in the compartment 11.

[0077] The bag 10 can include one or more side walls 15, 16, which can include a front wall 15 and a rear wall 16 ( Figure 3A and Figure 3B)。The bag 10 can include an upper end 17 and a lower end 18. The upper end 17 can include a hanging part 13. The lower end 18 can include a dispensing section 12. One or more side walls 15, 16 can each have an inner surface that defines a compartment 11 (i.e., the accommodation space of the compartment 11). The compartment 11 can extend substantially between the upper end 18 and the lower end 20. The upper end 18 can have an opening that provides access to the compartment 11, i.e., access to the accommodation space of the compartment 11.

[0078] The bag 10 can include one or more edges along which the side walls 15, 16 are connected to each other to form the compartment 11 and the dispensing section 12. These edges can include a first side edge 19.1, a second side edge 19.2, an upper edge 19.3, and a lower edge; in Figure 1 the state shown, the lower edge and thus the so - arranged part of the connection between the walls 15, 16 have been removed to expose the opening 12a such that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10 under the action of gravity via the opening 12a. The side walls 15, 16 can be connected to each other and peripherally sealed substantially along their perimeters, for example, to form one or more fin seals. The one or more fin seals can include an upper fin seal that includes the hanging part 13.

[0079] The bag 10 can be made of a cellulose - based material or a cellulose - based material composition. For example, at least a part of the bag 10 can be made of paper and / or cardboard. The bag 10 can include a multi - layer structure having an oxygen - barrier function and / or a moisture - barrier function, wherein at least one layer (such as at least the outer layer or the outermost layer) of the multi - layer structure is made of paper and / or cardboard; the grammage of the paper or the cardboard can be in the range of 30 g / m2 to 200 g / m2. One or more other layers of the multi - layer structure then provide the oxygen - barrier function and / or the moisture - barrier function.

[0080] Alternatively, the bag 10 can be made of a single material. "Single material" means a material composed of a single type of material. For example, a single material is a material composed of a polymer of the same chemical family (such as polyethylene (PE)). Different polymers of the same chemical family of polymers are, for example, high - density polyethylene and low - density polyethylene, which can be classified for recycling in the same recycling stream because they are composed of the same monomers. In other words, the layers of the single material are not made of different types of materials, but of the same type of material (e.g., polyethylene or polypropylene).

[0081] The dispensing section 12 can include an upstream section 12.1 and a downstream section 12.2. The downstream section 12.2 can include the opening 12a, or can be arranged closer to the opening 12a than the upstream section 12.1.

[0082] As Figure 3A andFigure 3B As shown, in addition to sections 12.1 and 12.2, the dispensing section 12 can also include a collapsible section 12.3, which can extend from the upstream section 12.1 to the downstream section 12.2. The collapsible section 12.3 can be designed such that by moving the sections 12.1 and 12.2 towards each other, the collapsible section 12.3 can be folded into a defined (folded) shape. The collapsible section 12.3 can include at least two sub-sections 12.31, 12.32, which can be folded into a defined shape, such as a shape in which the sections 12.31, 12.32 extend parallel to each other, as Figure 3A shown, or a shape in which they extend at least crosswise to each other. If the sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 extend crosswise to each other, they can extend at an angle preferably less than 45° to each other. Preferably, once folded, the sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 form a U-shape or a V-shape. In the folded state, the sub-section 12.31 can extend crosswise to the upstream section 12.1, preferably perpendicular to the upstream section, and / or the sub-section 12.32 can extend crosswise to the downstream section 12.2, preferably perpendicular to the downstream section.

[0083] The collapsible section 12.3 can include one or more joints, which contribute to folding the collapsible section 12.3 into a defined shape. For example, the one or more joints can include a joint 12.33 that connects the sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 to each other. Additionally or alternatively, the one or more joints can include a joint 12.34 that connects the sub-section 12.31 to the upstream section 12.1 and / or a joint 12.35 that connects the sub-section 12.32 to the downstream section 12.2. The one or more joints 12.33 to 12.35 can be provided by making creases in the dispensing section 12. The one or more joints 12.33 to 12.35 can include one or more creases and / or folds and / or any other joints that can contribute to folding the section 12.3 into a defined shape, such as weakened areas and / or areas that are more flexible or less rigid than the sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 and / or the upstream section 12.1 and / or the downstream section 12.2. The distance between the joint 12.33 and the joint 12.34 can be the same as the distance between the joint 12.33 and the joint 12.35. By means of the joints 12.33 to 12.35, three folding parts (or folding sections) can be provided: a middle folding part and two boundary or lateral folding parts. The middle folding part can be formed in one direction, while the two boundary folding parts can be formed in another direction.

[0084] The dispensing system 100 according to the first embodiment includes a dispensing mechanism 110, which includes two components 111 and 112. AsFigure 3A and Figure 3B As shown in more detail, the first component 111 is attached to the upstream section 12.1 of the dispensing section 12, and the second component 112 is attached to the downstream section 12.2 of the dispensing section 12. The components 111, 112 can be attached to the sections 12.1, 12.2 by an adhesive (e.g., by using glue). The component 112 can be arranged closer to the opening 12a than the component 111. The components 111, 112 can be arranged on the same side with respect to the bag 10, such as on the front side of the bag 10, for example, on the front wall 15.

[0085] As Figure 3A and Figure 3B shown, the two components 111, 112 can be manually moved relative to each other so as to move between a closed position ( Figure 3A ) and an open position ( Figure 3B ).

[0086] As Figure 3A shown, in the closed position, the dispensing section 12 is closed by the two components 111, 112 so as to prevent the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the bag 12 through the dispensing section 12. In the closed position, the components 111, 112 and thus the upstream section 12.1 and the downstream section 12.2 to which the components 111, 112 are attached are arranged relative to each other such that the foldable section 12.3 is folded to prevent the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the compartment 11 through the dispensing section 12 and out of the bag 10, in particular to prevent the bulk material from flowing out of the compartment 11 beyond the fold section 12.3. In such a folded state of the section 12.3, the section 12.3 can be folded such that the sub-sections 12.31 and 12.32 are folded into a defined shape, such as a shape in which the sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 are parallel or cross each other, in particular forming a U-shape or a V-shape. Thus, at least the section 12.3 follows a zigzag path that can prevent the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the bag 10 and / or flowing into the downstream section 12.2. Additionally or alternatively, the foldable section 12.3 can be folded such that the cross-section of at least the section 12.3 (and preferably the section 12.1 and / or the section 12.2) is reduced in such a way that it prevents the bulk material 1 from flowing through the so-reduced cross-section, thereby preventing the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the bag 10 and / or flowing into the downstream section 12.2. In the closed position, the section 12.3 can be folded to project and / or bulge away from the dispensing mechanism 110, such as towards the back of the bag 10 and / or away from the front wall 15.

[0087] As<0, Figure 3BAs shown, in this open position, the dispensing section 12 is unfolded or allowed to unfold through two components 111, 112 to form a dispensing channel 12.4 (such as a tube, etc.), so that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag from the compartment 11 under the action of gravity via the dispensing section 12. Therefore, the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10 from the compartment 11 via at least the dispensing channel 12.4. In the open position, the components 111, 112 and thus the upstream section 12.1 and the downstream section 12.2 to which the components 111, 112 are attached are arranged relative to each other such that the foldable section 12.3 is unfolded and / or allowed to unfold to form the dispensing channel 12.4, and thus the bulk material 1 is dispensed out of the bag 10. For example, at least the section 12.3 is allowed to unfold by the components 111, 112, where the gravity of the bulk material 1 acts on the section 12.3, causing the gravity to unfold the section 12.3, thereby forming the dispensing channel 12.4. As the section 12.3 unfolds, the cross-section of the section 12.3 can increase, such that the unfolded section 12.3 with the increased cross-section forms at least a part of the dispensing channel 12.4. The section 12.3 can be unfolded such that its cross-section increases in such a way that the bulk material 1 can flow through the thus increased cross-section, so that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10 from the compartment 11 via the dispensing section 12 (such as via at least the dispensing channel 12.4) and / or flow into the downstream section 12.2.

[0088] In the unfolded state of the section 12.3, the section 12.3 can be unfolded such that the sub-sections 12.31 and 12.32 extend along a straight line or along a path (slightly) deviating from a straight line, such as along a (slightly) curved or arched shape. For example, in the open position, the sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 extend at an angle to each other, and this angle is greater than the corresponding angle between the sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 in the closed state, for example, an angle included in the range of 90° to 180°. The unfolded section 12.3 can follow a path that is less tortuous than the path of the folded section 12.3, or even a non-tortuous path, so that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10 from the compartment 11 via the path followed by the unfolded section 12.3 and / or flow into the downstream section 12.2.

[0089] Thus, with two components 111, 112 being movable relative to each other and attached to sections 12.1, 12.2, the foldable section 12.3 can be selectively folded to prevent the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the bag 10 via the dispensing section 12, or be unfolded or allowed to unfold (such as by stretching along the dispensing direction defined by the dispensing section 12), so as to allow the bulk material 1 to flow out of the bag 10 from the compartment 11 via the dispensing section 12 under the action of gravity. For example, by moving the component 111 away from at least a part of the component 112, the upstream section 12.1 also moves away from the downstream section 12.2, whereby the section 12.3 unfolds; subsequently, a dispensing channel 12.4 is formed, where the gravity of the bulk material 1 can act on the thus formed dispensing channel 12.4 to increase the cross-section of the dispensing channel 12.4, and the bulk material 1 can flow through this cross-section over the section 12.3, such as into the downstream section 12.2 and / or out of the bag 10.

[0090] As Figure 2 shown, with the components 111, 112 including the rod 113 and the through-hole 114, the components 111, 112 can move relative to each other along a linear direction. The rod 113 extends through the through-hole 114 such that the two components 111, 112 are linearly guided relative to each other. The component 111 can include the through-hole 114, where the component 112 can include the rod 113. The through-hole 114 can include a shape corresponding to the cross-section of the rod 113. The through-hole 114 can have a slit-like shape. The rod 113 can have a plate-like form. The component 112 can include an attachment section 112.1 by which the component 112 is attached to the downstream section 12.2 of the dispensing section 12, where the rod 113 can extend from the attachment section 112.1. Thus, the component 111 can move along the rod 113 and away from the attachment section 112.1 into a position where the section 12.3 is unfolded or allowed to unfold to form the dispensing channel 12.4. In the closed position, the component 111 can be supported on the attachment section 112.1.

[0091] The manual operation of the dispensing mechanism 110 can be set in different ways such that the components 111, 112 move relative to each other between a closed position and an open position. For example, in the closed position, the components 111, 112 can define a space 115 that is easily accessible to a human finger. The component 111 can include a gripping area 111.1 that defines the space 115. The gripping area 111.1 can be a surface that defines a recess provided in the component 111. The gripping area 111.1 is arranged such that by manual operation, for example, in a direction away from the attachment section 112.1 (pushing), the components 111, 112 move to the open position. Thus, a user of the dispensing system 100 can first insert his or her finger into the space 115 and then push the gripping area 111.1 away from the attachment section 112.1, thereby moving the components 111, 112 to the open position. Additionally or alternatively, the component 112 can include (another) gripping area 112.2 that defines the space 115. The gripping area 112.2 can be a surface that defines a recess provided in the component 112 (such as in the attachment section 112.1). Through the gripping area 112.2, the user's finger can more easily access the space 115 for subsequent operation of the component 111.

[0092] The rod 113 can include a gripping section 113.1 preferably provided at the distal end of the rod 113. The gripping section 113.1 can be a recess or a through-hole. The gripping section 113.1 is arranged such that the component 111 can be manually moved towards the gripping section 113.1, for example, by operating the gripping area 111.1, in order to move the components 111, 112 to the open position. Thus, the user can grasp the gripping area 111.1 with a first finger and the gripping section 113.1 with a second finger and move the first finger and the second finger towards each other in order to move the components 111, 112 to the open position, thereby dispensing the bulk material 1 out of the bag 10. Specifically, the first finger and the second finger can belong to the same hand such that, for example, the components 111, 112 can be moved to the open position by a squeezing or clamping movement of the fingers. Thus, a very simple and intuitive design of the dispensing mechanism 100 for dispensing the bulk material 1 is provided.

[0093] The rod 113 can include a hole 113.2, which can be an oval hole. The hole 113.2 can extend parallel to the trajectory of the component 111 (especially the gripping area 111.1) moving along the rod 113. The hole 113.2 can be arranged to be accessible in both the open position and the closed position (e.g., via a recess including the gripping area 111.1). Thus, the hole 113.2 can ensure that the user's finger can firmly grasp (e.g., not just with the fingertips) the gripping area 111.1 for subsequent operation. For example, in the closed position, the user's finger can extend through the space 115 into the hole 113.2, whereby the user can firmly grasp the gripping area 111.1, such as a particularly large surface area of the gripping area 111.1. Then, the user's finger can move the gripping area 111.1 and thus move the component 111 relative to the component 112 (e.g., away from the attachment section 112.1), where the finger is simultaneously in the hole 113.2 and moves along the extension direction of the hole 113.2. Thus, during the entire relative movement between the components 111, 112 to achieve the open position, the user's finger can firmly grasp the gripping area 111.1.

[0094] The dispensing system 100 further includes an elastic element 120, which is arranged to urge the two components 111, 112 towards the closed position. Thus, by the arrangement of the elastic element 120, the default position is the closed position. In the closed position, the elastic element 120 is tensioned to generate a restoring force acting on the components 111, 112. The restoring force acts such that the components 111, 112 can be driven or moved (i.e., returned) to the closed position, such as the components 111, 112 towards each other. Thus, when the external force acting on the components 111, 112 to hold them in the open position is removed, the restoring force of the elastic element 120 drives the components 111, 112 towards each other, thereby entering the closed position. In the closed position, the elastic element 120 can be tensioned or not. The elastic element 120 can be made of a synthetic material such as rubber or another material such as metal. The elastic element 120 can surround and / or wrap the components 111, 112. The elastic element 120 can be provided in the form of a ring and / or a band. To hold the elastic element 120 on the components 111, 112 at least in the closed position, the component 111 can include a recess 111.2, and / or the component 112 can include a recess 112.3. At least a part of the elastic element 120 can extend in each of the recesses 111.2 and 112.3. Additionally or alternatively, the component 111 can include a protrusion, and / or the component 112 can include a protrusion to prevent the elastic element 120 from being released from the components 111, 112. In the closed position, the elastic element 120 can be tensioned such that the restoring force thus generated by the elastic element 120 acts on the components 111, 112 to prevent the elastic element 120 from separating.

[0095] The resilient element 120 can include at least two resilient elements 120L, 120R, and the at least two resilient elements can be respectively arranged on the sides of the components 111, 112, and / or respectively arranged on the sides of the rod 113.

[0096] Figures 4A to 4G A method including steps of using a dispensing system 100 is shown.

[0097] As Figure 4A shown, the method can include a first step of setting up the bag 10. In this step, the bag 10 can be creased to provide a foldable section 12.3 in a pre-creased state (for subsequent steps). In the first step, the bag 10 is closed at its dispensing section 12 by a closure 21. The closure 21 can be integral with the dispensing section 12, such as formed by connecting the side walls 15, 16 to each other. The closure 21 is arranged to cover the opening 12a, and / or prevent the bulk material 1 from flowing past the closure 21 under the action of gravity via the dispensing section 12, that is, downstream of the closure 21. The closure 21 can be connected to the dispensing section 12 by a weakened portion. Thus, the closure 21 can be torn off from the dispensing section 12 by using the weakened portion.

[0098] As Figure 4B shown, the method can include a second step, in which the dispensing mechanism 100 is attached to the bag 10 (for example, by using an adhesive such as glue), where the dispensing section 12 is in a state where the foldable section 12.3 is folded, such as to form a defined shape (U-shaped, V-shaped, etc.) as described above. The remaining part of the bag 10 can be in a flat state. In other words, in the second step, except for the foldable section 12.3 that is folded to protrude from the remaining flat part of the bag 10, the bag 10 can be in a flat state.

[0099] As Figure 4C shown, the method can include a third step, in which the bulk material 1 is filled into the compartment 11 of the bag 10, for example, via an opening provided at the upper end 17 of the bag 10. Then, the opening can be closed, for example, by a seal such as heat sealing.

[0100] As Figure 4D shown, the method can include a fourth step, in which the closure 21 is removed from the dispensing section 12. Thereby, the opening 12a is exposed. However, since the dispensing mechanism 100 is in its (default) closed position, the bulk material 1 is prevented from flowing out of the bag 10 via the dispensing section 12, that is, the bulk material is prevented from flowing past the opening 12a.

[0101] As Figure 4EAs shown, the method can include a fifth step in which the bag 10 is suspended by using the hanging part 13 so that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10 from the compartment 11 via the dispensing section 12 under the action of gravity, that is, out of the bag through the opening 12a (if the dispensing mechanism 100 is in the open position).

[0102] As Figure 4F shown, the method can include a sixth step in which the dispensing mechanism 100 is manually operated to move the components 111, 112 to the open position, so as to dispense the bulk material 1 from the compartment 11 and the dispensing channel 12.4 thus formed out of the bag 10.

[0103] The sixth step can be repeated several times until the compartment 11 no longer contains any bulk material 1, that is, until the compartment 11 is empty. In such a state, the dispensing system 100 can be recycled, as Figure 4G shown. For example, the dispensing system 100 can be recycled by removing the elastic element 120 from the dispensing mechanism 110, then placing the bag 10 and the dispensing mechanism 100 in the first recycling stream and placing the elastic element 120 in the second recycling stream.

[0104] Figure 5A The dispensing mechanism 110 is shown in the disassembled state. In the disassembled state, the component 112 can be disassembled from the component 111. For example, in the first step, the elastic element 120 can be removed, allowing the component 112 to move away from the component 111 to a position where the components 111, 112 are separated from each other, which may mean that the component 112 is no longer guided by the rod 113. Figure 5B The dispensing mechanism 110 is shown in the assembled state. In the assembled state, the component 112 can be linearly guided by the component 111, for example, by using the rod 113 extending through the through-hole 114.

[0105] The dispensing mechanism 100 can be made of a plate. The plate can have different shapes. As Figure 3A and Figure 3B shown, the component 111 can include a plurality of plates 111.3 to 111.5, and / or the component 112 can include a plurality of plates 112.4 to 112.6. The component 111 can include the plates 111.3, 111.5, which are spaced apart from each other by one or more spacer plates 111.4, whereby a through-opening 114 can be provided. The rod 113 can be made of a plate sandwiched between the plates 112.4 and 112.6, wherein the attachment section 112.1 can include at least the plates 112.3 and 112.6, and preferably includes one or more spacer plates 112.5 sandwiched between the plates 112.3 and 112.6.

[0106] Figure 6Illustrates different plates for forming a dispensing mechanism similar to the dispensing mechanism 100. These plates can include plates 111.3' and 111.5' to form at least a part of a component 111' similar to the component 111, where the plates 111.3' and 111.5' can be spaced apart from each other by one or more spacer plates 111.4', whereby a through-opening 114' of the component 111' can be provided. A rod 113' similar to the rod 113 can be made of a plate 112.5' sandwiched between plates 112.4' and 112.6', where an attachment section 112.1' similar to the attachment section 112.1 can be provided through the plates 112.4' to 112.6'.

[0107] The dispensing system 100 can include a tamper-evident element arranged to indicate initial and / or unauthorized manipulation of the dispensing mechanism 110, such as movement of components 111 and 112 to an open position. For example, the tamper-evident element can include a cover wrapped around at least a part of the components 111 and 112, and the cover is arranged such that once the components 111 and 112 are moved to the open position, the cover is at least partially damaged. In this damaged state, a part of the cover can be separated from another part, such as from another part included in the cover. Figure 6 An example of a tamper-evident element 116' that can be wrapped around the components 111' and 112' is shown.

[0108] Figure 7 An example of a bag 10 that can be combined with one or more reinforcing elements 22 and 23 is shown. The reinforcing element 22 can be arranged to reinforce the lower part of the bag 10, such as the tapered section 14. For example, the shape of the reinforcing element 22 can at least partially conform to the shape of the tapered section 14. The reinforcing element 23 can be arranged to reinforce the hanging part 13 and / or can include a through-opening that can be aligned with an opening included in the hanging part 13. The element 22 and / or the element 23 can be made of cardboard with a grammage in the range of 300 g / m2 to 500 g / m2 (such as 400 g / m2).

[0109] In Figure 8 the dispensing system 200 according to a second embodiment is illustrated.

[0110] The dispensing system 200 includes the above-mentioned bag 10 and a dispensing mechanism 210, which includes two components 211, 212. These two components include a retainer 211 and a strip 212. The retainer 211 can be a frame. The retainer 211 can be attached to the dispensing section 12, such as to the upstream section 12.1 and / or the downstream section 12.2 of the dispensing section 12. The retainer 211 can be attached to the section 12.1 and / or the section 12.2 by an adhesive (for example, by using glue). The strip 212 can be attached to the dispensing section 12, such as on the side of the dispensing section 12 facing away from the retainer 211, such as on the front side of the bag 10, for example, attached to the front wall 15, while the retainer 211 is attached to the rear wall 16. The strip 212 can be attached to the section extending between the sections 12.1 and 12.2, such as the section extending from the section 12.1 to the section 12.2. The section to which the strip 212 is attached can be an optionally foldable section 12.3.

[0111] As Figure 8 , Figure 9A and Figure 9B , Figure 10A and Figure 10B shown, the two components 211, 212 (i.e., the retainer 211 and the strip 212) can be manually moved relative to each other so as to move between a closed position ( Figure 8 and Figure 10A ) and an open position ( Figure 9A , Figure 9B , Figure 10B ).

[0112] As Figure 8 and Figure 10AAs shown, in the closed position, the dispensing section 12 is closed by two components 211, 212 so as to prevent the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the bag 10 via the dispensing section 12. More specifically, the strip 212 includes a deformable (such as collapsible) section 212.1 which is capable of moving between a retracted state and an extended state relative to the retainer 211. In the closed position, the retracted state of the deformable section 212.1 relative to the retainer 211 causes the dispensing section 12 to be closed by the deformable section 212.1 and the retainer 211, thereby preventing the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the compartment 11 via the dispensing section 12 of the bag 10, in particular preventing the bulk material from flowing out of the compartment 11 beyond the section 12.3. Preferably, at least the section 12.3 is closed by the retainer 211 and the deformable section 212.1 in the retracted state. In this closed state of the section 12.3, the section 12.3 can be closed (collapsed, folded, clamped, etc.) such that the sub-sections 12.31 and 12.32 form (such as fold) a shape in which the sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 are parallel or cross each other, in particular form a U-shape or a V-shape. With the section 12.3 closed by the retainer 211 and the deformable section 212.1 in the retracted state, the section 12.3 can follow a tortuous path which can prevent the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the bag 10 and / or flowing into the downstream section 12.2. Additionally or alternatively, the section 12.3 can be closed by the retainer 211 and the deformable section 212.1 in the retracted state such that the cross-section of the section 12.3 is reduced in such a way that it prevents the bulk material 1 from flowing through such a reduced cross-section, thereby preventing the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the bag 10 and / or flowing into the downstream section 12.2. In the closed position, at least a part of the section 12.3 can be arranged in the space 211.1 defined by the retainer 211 and / or can project or protrude into this space.

[0113] The retainer 211 can include one or more edges 211.2, 211.3, such as an upstream edge 211.2 and a downstream edge 211.3. In the closed position, the dispensing section 12 is closed by the deformable section 12.2 in the retracted state and one or more of the edges 211.2, 211.3. For example, the upstream region of the section 12.3 can be clamped between the deformable section 12.2 (retracted) and the upstream edge 211.2, and / or the downstream region of the section 12.3 can be clamped between the deformable section 12.2 (retracted) and the downstream edge 211.2. One or more of the edges 211.2, 211.3 can be arranged to define the space 211.1.

[0114] As Figure 10BAs shown, in the open position, the dispensing section 12 is unfolded or allowed to unfold by two components 211, 212 to form a dispensing channel 12.4, such that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag under the action of gravity from the compartment 11 via the dispensing section 12. Thus, the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10 from the compartment 11 via at least the dispensing channel 12.4. In the open position, the dispensing section 12 (especially section 12.3) is unfolded and / or allowed to unfold by the deformable section 212.1 in an extended state, thereby forming the dispensing channel 12.4; thus, the bulk material 1 can be dispensed from the bag 10 under the action of gravity. For example, by the deformable section 212.1 in an extended state, the dispensing section 12 is allowed to unfold, where the gravity of the bulk material 1 acts on the dispensing section 12 (such as acting on section 12.3) to unfold the dispensing section 12, thereby forming the dispensing channel 12.4. In other words, the deformable section 212.1 in an extended state can be arranged such that the deformable section 212.1 does not prevent the dispensing section 23 from unfolding or expanding due to the gravity of the bulk material 1 acting on the dispensing section 23.

[0115] As the section 12.3 unfolds, the cross-section of the section 12.3 can increase, such that the unfolded section 12.3 with an increased cross-section forms at least a part of the dispensing channel 12.4. The section 12.3 can be unfolded such that its cross-section increases in such a way that the bulk material 1 can flow through such an increased cross-section, so that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10 from the compartment 11 via the dispensing section 12 (such as via at least the dispensing channel 12.4) and / or flow into the downstream section 12.2 under the action of gravity.

[0116] The deformable section 212.1 can be attached (for example, such as permanently attached by using an adhesive, especially glue) to the dispensing section 12, such that when the deformable section 212.1 moves from a retracted state to an extended state, for example, in a direction away from the dispensing section 12, the deformable section 212.1 unfolds the dispensing section 12, so that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag 10 from the compartment 11 via the dispensing section 12 under the action of gravity. Thus, the cross-section of the dispensing section can increase, such that the unfolded section 12.3 with an increased cross-section forms at least a part of the dispensing channel 12.4. The section 12.3 can be unfolded such that its cross-section increases in such a way that the bulk material 1 can flow through such an increased cross-section.

[0117] In the deployed state of section 12.3, section 12.3 can be deployed such that sub-sections 12.31 and 12.32 extend along a straight line or along a path (slightly) deviating from a straight line, such as along a (slightly) arched shape. For example, in the open position, sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 extend at an angle to each other, the angle being greater than the corresponding angle between sub-sections 12.31, 12.32 in the closed state, such as an angle included in the range of 90° to 180°. The deployed section 12.3 can follow a path that is less tortuous or even non-tortuous than the path of section 12.3 closed by retainer 211 and deformable section 212.1 in the retracted state, such that bulk material 1 can flow out of bag 10 via the path followed by the deployed section 12.3 under the action of gravity and / or flow into downstream section 12.2.

[0118] Thus, by the relative movement of two components 211, 212 with respect to each other, dispensing section 12 can be selectively closed (collapsed, folded, etc.) to prevent bulk material 1 from flowing out of bag 10 via dispensing section 12, or can be deployed or allowed to deploy to allow bulk material 1 to flow out of bag 10 from compartment 11 via dispensing section 12 under the action of gravity. By converting deformable section 212.1 from the retracted state to the extended state, deformable section 212.1 deploys dispensing section 12, or deformable section 212.1 moves to a position where dispensing section 12.3 can be deployed, for example, by the gravity of bulk material 1 acting on dispensing section 12.

[0119] As Figure 9A and Figure 9B and Figures 11A to 11C shown, components 211, 212 can move relative to each other, for example, along a linear direction. Strip 212 can include two manually operable ends 213L, 213R that can be arranged relative to each other. Ends 213L, 213R are arranged such that they can move towards each other. When ends 213L, 213R move towards each other, deformable section 212.1 moves from the retracted state ( Figure 8 , Figure 10A , Figure 11A , Figure 11B ) to the extended state ( Figure 9A , Figure 9B , Figure 10B , Figure 11C)。Each of the ends 213L, 213R can have a plate-like form and / or a thickness equal to that of the deformable section 212.1. Each of the ends 213L, 213R can be connected to the deformable section 212.1 via a respective hinge 213.1. The first lateral member 212.1L of the deformable section 212.1 can be inclined relative to the end 213L via the first hinge 213.1, and the second lateral member 212.1R of the deformable section 212.1 can be inclined relative to the end 213R via the second hinge 213.1. The first lateral member 212.1L and the second lateral member 212.R of the deformable section 212.1 can extend crossing each other (such as obliquely) relative to each other in the extended state, and / or can extend parallel to or (slightly) crossing each other (such as at an angle greater than the corresponding angle in the extended state) relative to each other in the retracted state. Each hinge in the hinges 213.1 can be an integral connection between the respective ends 213L, 213R and the deformable section 212.1. Each hinge in the hinges 213.1 can be provided by making a crease in the strip 212, and / or can be a crease. The two members 212.1L, 212.1R can be connected to each other via a hinge 212.2, which can be provided by making a crease in the strip 212, and / or can be a crease.

[0120] The strip 212 can be linearly guided by a retainer 211. The retainer 211 can include a guide rail 214. Each of the ends 213L, 213R can be guided by and / or received in the respective guide rail 214 such that the two members 211, 212 are linearly guided relative to each other. The guide rail 214 can include a recess having a width equal to or greater than the thickness of the respective ends 213L, 213R. The guide rail 214 can have a slit-like shape. The guide rail 214 can include a first part guiding the first section of the respective ends 213L, 213R and a second part guiding the second section of the respective ends 213L, 213R. The first part and the second part of the guide rail 214 can be arranged relative to each other. Thus, the ends 213L, 213R can be moved along one or more guide rails 214 to a position where the deformable section 212.1 is in the extended state, whereby the dispensing section 12 is unfolded or allowed to unfold to form a dispensing channel 12.4. In the closed position, the deformable section 212.1 is in the retracted state, in which the deformable section 212.1 can project from the retainer to a lesser extent than in the open position.

[0121] In the closed position, the components 211, 212 can define a space 215 that is easily accessible to a human finger. The strip 212 can include a gripping area 213.2 that defines the space 215. The gripping area 213.2 can be part of one of the ends 213L, 213R and / or can be a surface defined by the thickness of the strip 212 or the thickness of the respective ends 213L, 213R. The gripping area 213.2 is arranged such that by manual operation, for example, in a direction parallel to the guide rail 214 and / or away from a (relative) part of the retainer 211 (pushing), the components 211, 212 are moved to the open position. Thus, a user of the dispensing system 200 can first insert his or her finger into the space 215 and then push the gripping area 213.2, thereby moving the components 211, 212 to the open position. Additionally or alternatively, the retainer 211 can include an area 211.4 that defines the space 215. Through the area 211.4, the user's finger can more easily access the space 215 for subsequent operation of the strip 212.

[0122] The components 211, 212 can define at least two spaces 215. Each of the ends 213L, 213R can include a respective gripping area 213.2 that defines one of the spaces 215. The gripping areas 213.2 thus arranged can be arranged such that by manual operation of each gripping area, for example, in a direction parallel to the guide rail 214 and / or towards the respective other gripping area 213.2 (pushing), the components 211, 212 are moved to the open position, in which the deformable section 212.1 is in an extended state, and in which the user can dispense the bulk material 1 from the bag 10. Thus, a user of the dispensing system 200 can first insert the respective finger (e.g., fingers of the same hand) into each of the spaces 215 and then push the gripping areas 213.2 towards each other (e.g., by squeezing or clamping), thereby moving the components 211, 212 to the open position. Thus, a very simple and intuitive design of the dispensing mechanism 200 for dispensing the bulk material 1 is provided.

[0123] The retainer 211 can include a hole 211.5, which can be an oval hole. The hole 211.5 can extend parallel to the trajectory of at least respective portions of the strip 212 (especially the ends 213L, 213R) so as to move linearly relative to the retainer 211, such as along a guide rail 214. The hole 211.5 can be arranged to be accessible in both the open position and the closed position. Thus, the hole 211.5 can ensure that the user's finger can firmly grasp the corresponding gripping area 213.2 for subsequent operation. For example, in the closed position, the user's finger can extend through one of the spaces 215 into the hole 211.5, whereby the user can firmly grasp the corresponding gripping area 213.2, such as a particularly large surface area of the gripping area 213.2. Then, the user's finger can move the gripping areas 213.2 towards each other and thus move the deformable section 212.1 into an extended state, where the finger is simultaneously in the hole 211.5 and moves along the extension direction of the hole 211.5. Thus, during the entire relative movement between the components 211, 212 for achieving the open position, the user's finger can firmly grasp the gripping area 213.2.

[0124] The dispensing system 200 further includes an elastic element 220 which is arranged to urge two components 211, 212 towards the closed position and thus to urge the deformable section 212.1 into its retracted state. Thus, by the arrangement of the elastic element 220, the default position is the closed position. In the open position, the elastic element 220 is tensioned to generate a restoring force acting on the components 211, 212. The restoring force acts such that the components 211, 212 can be driven or moved (i.e., returned) to the closed position, such as the ends 213L, 213R moving away from each other and / or each of the ends 213L, 213R moving towards the corresponding part of the retainer 211. Thus, when the external force acting on the component 212 to hold it in the open position (i.e., to hold the deformable section 212.1 in the extended state) is removed, the restoring force of the elastic element 220 drives the deformable section 212.1 into its retracted state and thus into the closed position. In the closed position, the elastic element 220 can be tensioned or not. The elastic element 220 can be made of a synthetic material such as rubber or another material such as metal. The elastic element 220 can surround and / or wrap around various sections of the components 211, 212. The elastic element 220 can be provided in the form of a ring and / or a band. To connect the elastic element 220 to the components 211, 212, the retainer 211 can include a recess 211.6 and / or the strip 212 can include a protrusion 212.3. At least a part of the elastic element 220 can extend in the recess 211.6 and / or can surround and / or wrap around the protrusion 212.3. The protrusion 212.3 can be a part of one of the ends 213L, 213R. At least a part of the elastic element 220 can extend parallel to the guide rail 214 and / or does not extend inside the space 215 and / or the hole 211.5. Through at least the protrusion 212.3, the corresponding ends 213L, 213R can be guided in the guide rail 214. For example, at least a part of the protrusion 212.3 extends inside the guide rail 214, such as in a recess of the guide rail 214.

[0125] The elastic element 220 can include at least two elastic elements 220L, 220R which can be arranged on the sides of the strip 212. For example, one end of the first elastic element 220L can be connected to the strip 212, such as to the end 213L, and the other end can be connected to the retainer 211, such as to the first side of the retainer 211, and / or one end of the second elastic element 220R can be connected to the strip 212, such as to the end 213R, and the other end can be connected to the retainer 211, such as to the second side of the retainer 211. The first side and the second side of the retainer 211 can be arranged on opposite sides of the retainer 211.

[0126] Figures 11A to 11C A method including steps of using the dispensing system 200 is shown.

[0127] like Figure 11A and Figure 11B As shown, the method can comprise a first step of setting up the dispensing system 200. In this step, the dispensing mechanism 210 is in a closed position in which the bulk material 1 is prevented from flowing out of the bag 10 via the dispensing section 12 and the opening 12a.

[0128] like Figure 11C As shown, the method can include a second step in which the dispensing mechanism 200 is manually operated to move the components 211, 212 to the open position, thereby dispensing the bulk material 1 from the compartment 11 and the dispensing channel 12.4 thus formed out of the bag 10 and, for example, into a container such as a cup. As shown, the user can operate the dispensing mechanism 200 with one hand and can hold the container with the other hand.

[0129] The second step can be repeated several times until the compartment 11 of the bag 10 no longer contains any bulk material 1, i.e., until the compartment 11 is empty. In this state, the dispensing system 200 can be recycled. For example, the dispensing system 200 can be recycled by removing the elastic element 220 from the dispensing mechanism 210, then placing the bag 10 and the dispensing mechanism 200 in a first recycling flow and placing the elastic element 220 in a second recycling flow.

[0130] The dispensing mechanism 200 can be made by using a plate. The plate can have different shapes. Figure 10A and Figure 10B As shown, the holder 211 can include a plurality of plates 211.7 to 211.9, and / or the strip 212 can include or consist of a (single) plate 212.4. The holder 211 can include plates 211.7 and 211.9, which are spaced apart from each other by one or more spacer plates 211.8, thereby enabling one or more guide rails 214 to be provided. At least some of the plates 211.7 to 211.9 can include through-openings, such that when the plates 211.7 to 211.9 are attached to each other, the through-openings form at least a portion of the space 211.1 and / or the space 215 and / or the hole 211.5.

[0131] exist Figure 12 A dispensing system 300 according to a third embodiment is illustrated in FIG.

[0132] The dispensing system 300 includes the above-described bag 10 and a dispensing mechanism 310, which includes two components 311, 312. These two components include a wall 311 and a rod 312. The wall 311 at least partially surrounds the upstream section 12.1 of the dispensing section 12. For example, the wall 311 has a cross-section with an annular shape, where the ring can have a closed form, such as an annular form, an elliptical form, or a rectangular form. The rod 312 is connected to the wall 311 and is preferably formed integrally with the wall 311. The rod 312 can have the form of a gate or a flap. The rod 312 can move relative to the wall 311 such that the rod 312 can move to a closed position (see Figure 14A ), in which the downstream section 12.2 of the dispensing section 12 is clamped between the rod 312 and the wall 311 to close the dispensing section 12 and thus prevent the bulk material 1 from flowing out of the bag 10 via the dispensing section 12.

[0133] The rod 312 can also move relative to the wall 311 such that the rod 312 can move to an open position (see Figure 12 , Figure 13 and Figure 14B ), in which the downstream section 12.2 of the dispensing section 12 is unfolded or allowed to unfold such that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the compartment 10 via the dispensing section 12 under the action of gravity. The rod 312 can be attached to the downstream section 12.2 (e.g., by an adhesive such as glue) such that when the rod 312 moves to the open position, the dispensing section 12 unfolds. Alternatively, the rod 312 can only support the downstream section 12.2 (e.g., from below) such that when the rod 312 moves to the open position, the dispensing section 12 is allowed to unfold, e.g., by the gravity of the bulk material 1 acting on the dispensing section 12.

[0134] The wall 311 can be attached to the dispensing section 12, for example, by using an adhesive such as glue.

[0135] An operating member 313 can extend from the rod 312, for example, from the distal end of the rod 312. The operating member 313 is arranged such that it can be pushed (e.g., by a container such as a cup) to move the rod 312 to the open position. The operating member 313, which is in the form of a rod, for example, can extend crosswise relative to the rod 312, such as vertically. The operating member 313 can include a through-opening that allows the user's hand and / or a container to easily grasp the operating member 313.

[0136] The dispensing system 300 further includes an elastic element 320 which is arranged to urge two components 311, 312 towards a closed position and thus urge the rod 312 against the wall 311. Thus, by the arrangement of the elastic element 320, the default position is the closed position. In the open position, the elastic element 320 is tensioned to generate a restoring force acting on the components 311, 312. The restoring force acts such that the components 311, 312 can be driven or moved (i.e., returned) to the closed position, for example, at least a part of the rod 312 towards the wall 311. Thus, when the external force acting on the rod 312 to hold it in the open position (e.g., to hold the rod 312 in the flipped open state) is removed, the restoring force of the elastic element 320 drives the rod 312 to its closed state (e.g., the flipped closed state), thus into the closed position. In the closed position, the elastic element 320 can be tensioned or not. The elastic element 320 can be made of a synthetic material such as rubber or another material such as metal. The elastic element 320 can surround and / or wrap around various sections of the components 311, 312. The elastic element 320 can be provided in the form of a ring and / or a band. For example, the dispensing section 12 can be guided through an opening defined by the elastic element 320. The elastic element 320 can be attached to the wall 311 by a first part (such as a first end) and attached to the rod 312 by a second part (such as a second end), such as attached to the distal end of the rod 312. The component 313 can be arranged to prevent the second part of the elastic element 320 from separating from the rod 312.

[0137] In Figure 15 FIG. illustrates a dispensing system 400 according to a fourth embodiment.

[0138] The dispensing system 400 includes the above-mentioned bag 10 and a dispensing mechanism 410 which includes two components 411, 412 which include a first rod 411 and a second rod 412. The dispensing section 12 is arranged between the rods 411, 412. The rod 412 is connected to the rod 411. The rods 411, 412 can move relative to each other such that they can move to a closed position (see Figure 17A ), in which closed position the dispensing section 12 is clamped between the rods 411, 412. More specifically, each of the rods 411, 412 includes a respective raised section 411.1, 412.1, wherein in the closed position, the raised section 411.1 clamps the downstream section 12.2 of the dispensing section 12, and the raised section 412.1 clamps the upstream section 12.1 of the dispensing section 12. Thus, the dispensing section 12 extends along a tortuous path and / or includes a reduced cross-section, whereby the dispensing section 12 is closed. Thus, the bulk material 1 is prevented from flowing out of the bag 10 via the dispensing section 12.

[0139] The rods 411, 412 are also movable relative to each other such that they can be moved to an open position (see Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17B ), in which the dispensing section 12 is unfolded or allowed to unfold such that the bulk material 1 can flow out of the bag from the compartment 10 via the dispensing section 12 under the action of gravity. The rod 411 and / or the rod 412 can be attached to the dispensing section 12 (e.g., by an adhesive such as glue) such that when the rods 411, 412 are moved to the open position, the dispensing section 12 unfolds.

[0140] The rod 411 and / or the rod 412 can include chamfered portions 411.2, 412.2 that allow the rods 411, 412 to tilt relative to each other in order to move between the closed position and the open position.

[0141] The rods 411, 412 can be operated via the ends of the rods 411, 412. For example, by pushing one end of the rods 411, 412 towards each other (clamping, etc.), the other ends of the rods 411, 412 can move away from each other, thereby moving the rods 411, 412 to the open position. This one end can include chamfered portions 411.2, 412.2.

[0142] The dispensing system 400 also includes an elastic element 420 that is arranged to urge the two components 411, 412 towards the closed position and thus urge the rods 411, 412 towards each other. Thus, by the arrangement of the elastic element 420, the default position is the closed position. In the open position, the elastic element 420 is tensioned to generate a restoring force acting on the components 411, 412. The restoring force acts such that the components 411, 412 can be driven or moved (i.e., returned) to the closed position, such that at least a part of the rod 412 towards at least a part of the rod 411, and / or vice versa. Thus, when the external force acting on the rod 411 and / or the rod 412 to hold the rods 411, 412 in the open position is removed, the restoring force of the elastic element 420 drives at least a part of the rods 411, 412 towards each other respectively in order to move the rods 411, 412 to the closed position. In the closed position, the elastic element 420 can be tensioned or not tensioned. The elastic element 420 can be made of a synthetic material such as rubber or another material such as metal. The elastic element 420 can surround and / or wrap the rods 411, 412. The elastic element 420 can be provided in the form of a ring and / or a band. For example, the rods 411, 412 can be operated via one end (which can be on the first side of the dispensing section 12), where the elastic element is arranged on the other end of the rods 411, 412 (which can be on the second side of the dispensing section 12).

[0143] In Figure 18The dispensing system 500 according to the fifth embodiment is illustrated.

[0144] The dispensing system 500 includes the above-described bag 10 and a dispensing mechanism 510. The dispensing mechanism 510 can substantially correspond to the above-described dispensing mechanism 210, except that the dispensing mechanism 510 moves between a closed position and an open position by a rotatable or twistable operating element 511 instead of a deformable section 212.1. Thus, the operating element 511 can be rotated to the open position, at which the dispensing section 12 is deployed or allowed to be deployed by the operating element 511 or by a component connected to the operating element 511. An elastic element (not shown) is arranged to urge the operating element 511 towards the closed position, at which the dispensing section 12 is closed at least by the operating element 511 or by a component connected to the operating element 511 and preferably by a component (such as a fixed component); for example, the dispensing section 12 is then clamped between the component and the operating element 511 or the component connected to the operating element 511.

[0145] The dispensing mechanism 510 can include a housing 512 that can accommodate the elastic element and / or can include components (such as fixed components) that can interact with the operating element 511 or components connected thereto. The housing 512 can include at least two components 512.1, 512.2 that can be separated from each other to provide access to the interior of the housing 512, such as access to the interior of the elastic element and / or the said components, and / or to separate the dispensing mechanism 510 from the dispensing section 12. For example, a part of the dispensing section 12 (such as one or more sealing fins and / or one or more weld seams) can be clamped between the components 512.1, 512.2. The housing 512 can accommodate and / or cover (hide, etc.) the mechanical means (elastic element, guide rails, etc.) for moving the dispensing mechanism 510 between the closed position and the open position. The housing (or casing) 512 can be molded. The dispensing mechanism 510 can be designed such that the dispensing system 500 can be attached to a wall by the dispensing mechanism 510.

[0146] If, according to a first alternative, the bag 10 is made of a cellulose-based material or a cellulose-based material composition, then each of the corresponding dispensing mechanisms 110, 210, 310, 410, 510 is made of a cellulose-based material or a cellulose-based material composition (such as paper and / or cardboard), such that the bag 10 and the dispensing mechanism 100 together have a total content of cellulose fibers of at least 70% by weight, preferably at least 80% by weight, more preferably at least 90% by weight, even more preferably at least 95% by weight, and most preferably 100% by weight. Thus, the dispensing systems 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 achieve a very high level of recyclability, because specifically, the bag 10 and the corresponding dispensing mechanisms 110, 210, 310, 410, 510 can be placed in the same recycling stream.

[0147] If, according to a second alternative, the bag 10 is made of a single material (such as the single material being a polymer, for example PE or PP), then the corresponding dispensing mechanisms 110, 210, 310, 410, 510 are made of the same single material, so that the corresponding dispensing mechanisms 110, 210, 310, 410, 510 can also be recycled together with the bag 10. The elastic element can simply be manually removed from the rest of the corresponding dispensing system, such that the elastic element does not have a negative impact on the recyclability of the corresponding dispensing system. For example, the elastic element can be placed in a first recycling stream, while the bag and the corresponding dispensing mechanism can be placed together in a second recycling stream.

[0148] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example and not limitation. Many changes can be made to the disclosed embodiments in light of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described embodiments. Instead, the scope of the present invention should be defined in accordance with the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0149] Although the present invention has been shown and described with respect to one or more specific embodiments, equivalent changes and modifications will occur to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding this specification and the drawings. Moreover, although the present invention may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several specific embodiments, such features can be combined with one or more other features of any given or specific application, which may be desirable and advantageous.

Claims

1. A dispensing system (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) for dispensing bulk material (1), the dispensing system comprising: (i) A flexible or semi-flexible bag (10), the flexible or semi-flexible bag comprising: · A compartment (11) for storing the bulk material (1); · A dispensing section (12); and · A hanging part (13), the bag (10) being capable of being hung by the hanging part such that the bulk material (1) can flow out of the bag (10) from the compartment (11) via the dispensing section (12) under the action of gravity; (ii) A dispensing mechanism (110, 210, 310, 410, 510), the dispensing mechanism being attached to the bag (10), wherein the dispensing mechanism (110, 210, 310, 410, 510) comprises two components (111, 112; 211, 212; 311, 312; 411, 412; 511, 512) that are capable of being manually moved relative to each other so as to move between the following positions: · A closed position, in which the dispensing section (12) is closed by the two components (111, 112; 211, 212; 311, 312; 411, 412; 511, 512) to prevent the bulk material (1) from flowing out of the bag (10) via the dispensing section (12); and · An open position, in which the dispensing section (12) is unfolded or allowed to unfold by the two components (111, 112; 211, 212; 311, 312; 411, 412; 511, 512) to form a dispensing channel (12.4) such that the bulk material (1) can flow out of the bag (10) from the compartment (11) under the action of gravity; and An elastic element (120, 220, 320, 420, 520) arranged to force the two components (111, 112; 211, 212; 311, 312; 411, 412; 511, 512) towards the closed position, wherein the two components (211, 212) comprise a retainer (211) and a strip (212), wherein the strip (212) comprises a deformable section (212.1) that is capable of moving between a retracted state and an extended state relative to the retainer (211), wherein in the closed position, the dispensing section (12) is closed by the retainer (211) and the deformable section (212.1) in the retracted state, and wherein in the open position, the dispensing section (12) is unfolded or allowed to unfold by the deformable section (212.1) in the extended state to form the dispensing channel (12.4).

2. The dispensing system (200) according to claim 1, wherein the strip (212) comprises two manually operable ends (213L, 213R) which are movable towards each other so as to move the deformable section (212.1) from the retracted state to the extended state.

3. The dispensing system (200) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the strip (212) is linearly guided by the retainer (211), which preferably comprises one or more guide rails (214) by which the ends (213L, 213R) of the strip (212) are linearly guided.

4. The dispensing system (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the retainer (211) comprises edges (211.2, 211.3), such as an upstream edge (211.2) and / or a downstream edge (211.3), wherein in the closed position, the dispensing section (12) is closed by the deformable section (212.1) in the retracted state and the edges (211.2, 211.3).

5. The dispensing system (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein in the closed position, the retainer (211) and the strip (212) define a space (215), and wherein the strip (212) comprises a gripping area (213.2) defining the space (215) such that by manually operating the gripping area (213.2), the deformable section (212.2) can be moved from its retracted state to its extended state.

6. The dispensing system (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the resilient element (220) is arranged to urge the deformable section (212.1) into its retracted state, wherein, Optionally, one end of the elastic element (220) is connected to the strip (212) and the other end of the elastic element (220) is connected to the retainer (211).

7. The dispensing system (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the bag (10) and the dispensing mechanism (110, 210, 310, 410, 510) are made of a cellulose-based material or a material composition, and the bag and the dispensing mechanism together contain at least 80% by weight of cellulose fibres, preferably at least 90% by weight of cellulose fibres, more preferably at least 95% by weight of cellulose fibres.

8. The dispensing system (100, 200, 300, 400, 500) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the dispensing mechanism (110, 210, 310, 410, 510) is made of cardboard and / or paper, and / or wherein at least a part of the bag (10), such as one or more layers of a multi-layer having an oxygen-barrier function and / or a moisture-barrier function, is made of paper and / or cardboard.

Images