Bag or container closure system

Abstract

A container or bag made of elastomer includes a main body having a front wall and a back wall configured to provide an interior volume of the container. A closure system includes a male portion having a male sealing profile with a male closure element extending from a thickened region and a female portion having a female sealing profile including a female closure element and defining an opening to a cavity. A barrier is disposed between the interior volume and the male closure element. When the closure system is in a closed configuration, a centerline extends through the opening, the cavity, the male sealing profile, and the thickened region. In the closed configuration, the barrier extends below an axis that extends through the opening and is perpendicular to the centerline.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 625,894, filed January 26, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Reference for federally funded research or development not applicable.

[0003] sequence list not applicable. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to bags or containers including improved closure systems, and more specifically to closure systems having improved sealing elements. Background Technology

[0005] Historically, reusable bags and containers used for food packaging (collectively referred to as "bags") have comprised folded webs made of elastomeric materials, or webs formed from blown, cast, single-layer, or co-extruded films, with two sidewalls folded at the bottom and sealed at the sides. These bags typically have reusable fasteners or closure systems at their top, such as adhesives, wire straps, or plastic zippers. While thermoplastic bags offer numerous advantages, including reduced cost, ease of manufacture, efficient packaging and transport, and ideal sealing for end-use, they are generally not reusable. Given consumer preference for reusable packaging, it is expected that novel and improved food packaging bags will retain the advantages associated with existing bag types. Therefore, it is desirable to maintain or enhance the advantages of existing bag types by using materials that allow for reusability, i.e., by using one or more sustainable materials.

[0006] Resealable and reusable bags are known in the art. For example, elastomeric bags with a resealable closure mechanism applied longitudinally along their opening, allowing for repeated opening and closing of the bag, are known in the art. A specific example of a reusable bag is described in U.S. Patent No. 9,371,153, which describes an elastomeric container with an integrated leak-proof seal. While elastomeric bags are becoming increasingly popular due to consumer demand for reusable bags, these bags possess different physical properties than existing thermoplastic bags, necessitating different sealing mechanisms and considerations.

[0007] Although the technology associated with existing thermoplastic bag sealing mechanisms has been developed for at least 70 years, the sealing technology for thermoplastic bags cannot be directly applied to the requirements of elastomer bags. This is especially true because some elastomer bags may be used during cooking and may be exposed to extreme temperatures, pressures, or need to cope with various forces on the bag walls that are not typically considered in thermoplastic bags.

[0008] While existing sealing systems have been improved to provide enhanced sealing performance, such seals often involve complex structures, which can complicate their manufacture and use. These sealing structures may include multiple pairs of opposing, interlocking closure profiles that can be difficult to seal and / or may confuse users due to uncertainty about whether the multiple pairs of interlocking closure profiles have been properly sealed. These types of seals for thermoplastic bags are impractical and not directly applicable to reusable elastomeric bags. Therefore, there is a need for a reusable closure mechanism for elastomeric bags that includes a simpler sealing structure, provides airtight or watertight seals, and can be used in more demanding applications.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need for a reusable bag or container to alleviate one or more problems associated with or specific to existing containers and bags. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This disclosure provides an enhanced closure system including a sealing structure that allows for quick and easy sealing and unsealing. In some embodiments, a container or bag made of an elastomer includes a body and a closure system having a front wall and a rear wall configured to provide an internal volume of the container. The closure system includes a male portion, a female portion, and a barrier. The male portion has a male sealing profile including a male closure element extending from a thickened region. The female portion has a female sealing profile including a female closure element and defining an opening to a cavity. The barrier is disposed between the internal volume and the male closure element. When the closure system is in a closed configuration, a centerline extends through the opening, the cavity, the male sealing profile, and the thickened region. In the closed configuration, the barrier extends below an axis that extends through the opening and is perpendicular to the centerline.

[0011] In some embodiments, the barrier is integrally formed with the closure system. In some embodiments, the barrier is configured to contact the parent closure element when the contents within the internal volume contact the barrier. In some embodiments, the barrier is configured to at least partially contact the parent portion when in the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the thickness of the barrier varies at least partially along the surface facing the internal volume. In some embodiments, the thickness of the barrier is at least partially uniform along the surface facing the internal volume.

[0012] In some embodiments, the barrier extends integrally from the male portion of the closure system. In some embodiments, the barrier includes a first layer extending from the female portion of the closure system and a second layer extending from the male portion of the closure system. In some embodiments, the closure system further includes a gap having a distance between the male closure element and the barrier, wherein the distance is measured along a direction perpendicular to the centerline.

[0013] In some embodiments, the height of the female closure element is greater than the height of the thickened region, wherein both the height of the female closure element and the height of the thickened region are measured along a direction perpendicular to the centerline. In some embodiments, the height of the female closure element is at least 100% of the height of the thickened region.

[0014] According to some embodiments, a container or bag made of an elastomer includes a body and a closure system. The body includes a front wall and a rear wall configured to provide an internal volume of the container. The closure system includes a male portion, a female portion, and a barrier. The male portion has a male sealing profile including a male closure element extending from a thickened region. The female portion has a female sealing profile including a female closure element and defining an opening to a cavity. The barrier extends from the male portion and is disposed between the internal volume and the male closure element. When the closure system is in a closed configuration, a centerline extends through the opening, the cavity, the male sealing profile, and the thickened region. When the closure system is in the closed configuration, the contents within the internal volume contact the barrier, which is configured to engage with the female closure element.

[0015] In some embodiments, the closure system further includes a gap having a distance between the male closure element and the barrier. This gap is measured in a direction perpendicular to the centerline. In some embodiments, the volume of the gap is defined at least by the height of the barrier. The height of the barrier is measured in a direction perpendicular to the centerline. In some embodiments, the barrier has a rectangular cross-section. In some embodiments, the thickness of at least a portion of the female portion varies continuously below the female closure element, wherein the thickness of the female portion is measured in a direction parallel to the centerline.

[0016] According to some embodiments, a container or bag made of an elastomer includes a body and a closure system. The body includes a front wall and a rear wall configured to provide an internal volume for the container. The closure system includes a male portion having a male sealing profile and a female portion having a female sealing profile. The male sealing profile includes a first male closure element extending from a thickened region, and the female sealing profile includes a female closure element and defines an opening to a cavity. The female closure element includes an inner portion that includes the cavity. When the closure system is in this closed configuration, a centerline extends through the opening, the cavity, the first male closure element, and the thickened region. The height of the inner portion is greater than the height of the thickened region. The heights of both the inner portion and the thickened region are measured in a direction perpendicular to the centerline.

[0017] In some embodiments, the male portion further includes a second male closure element disposed between the first male closure element and the internal volume. In some embodiments, the male portion further includes a gap between the first male closure element and the second male closure element. In some embodiments, the height of the internal portion is approximately 100% to 200% of the height of the thickened region. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is an isometric view of a first embodiment of a bag with a closure system disclosed herein, and is shown in an outward-folding configuration; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Front elevation view of the central bag; Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Top view of the middle pocket; Figure 4 It is along Figure 2 A side cross-sectional view of the bag taken at center line 4-4; Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Detailed view of one side of the middle pocket; Figure 6 yes Figure 4A detailed cross-sectional view of the parent shape outline of the closed system; Figure 7 yes Figure 4 Detailed cross-sectional view of the male profile of the closed system; Figure 8 yes Figure 6 and Figure 7 Detailed cross-sectional view of the male and female profiles when they are in a closed configuration; Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional detail view of a closure system according to another embodiment, having male and female profiles, shown in a closed configuration for a bag, similar to... Figures 1-5 The bag in the middle; Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional detail view of a closure system according to another embodiment, having male and female profiles, shown in a closed configuration for a bag, similar to... Figures 1-5 The bag in the middle; Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional detail view of a closure system according to another embodiment, having male and female profiles, shown in a closed configuration for a bag, similar to... Figures 1-5 The bag in the middle; Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional detail view of a closure system according to another embodiment, having male and female profiles, shown in a closed configuration for a bag, similar to... Figures 1-5 The bag in the middle; Figure 13 This is an isometric view of a second embodiment of a bag having another closure system as disclosed herein, shown in an open configuration; Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Front elevation view of the central bag; Figure 15 yes Figure 13 Top view of the middle pocket; Figure 16 It is along Figure 14 A side cross-sectional view of the bag taken from line 16-16 in the middle; Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A detailed cross-sectional view of the parent shape outline of the closed system; Figure 18 yes Figure 16 Detailed cross-sectional view of the male profile of the closed system; and Figure 19 yes Figure 17 and Figure 18 Detailed cross-sectional view of the male and female profiles in a closed configuration.

[0019] Other aspects and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description, in which similar structures have similar reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0020] This disclosure relates to bags and containers including improved closure systems, and more specifically to closure systems having improved sealing members. While the systems disclosed herein can be implemented in many different forms, several specific embodiments are discussed herein. It should be understood that the embodiments described in this disclosure are merely examples of the principles described herein, and this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown. Throughout this disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” mean plus or minus 5% of the number or numerical value modified by each term. As used herein, the phrase “elastomer” refers to a material that can be repeatedly stretched at room temperature and, upon immediate release of stress, will forcefully return to its approximately original length. Furthermore, the phrase “leak-proof seal” refers to a seal that resists leakage of liquids and solids from the container during storage and transport without the need for external structural assistance to maintain the seal. Finally, the term “closure element” is defined herein as part of a closure. For example, in a zipper closure, the closure element is one profile or another profile of the zipper, such as a rib profile or a groove profile.

[0021] This disclosure relates to storage bags and containers including an improved zipper design. The bags and containers may take various forms, with representative examples provided. Figures 1-5 and Figures 13-16 While the embodiments disclosed herein are formed entirely of an elastomer (such as silicone), it is contemplated that multiple components may be joined or formed together to implement the embodiments disclosed herein. Although different manufacturing methods may be employed, the bags and containers disclosed herein may be manufactured using a liquid injection molding (LIM) process, in which the entire bag or container is integrally formed and made of silicone. Alternatively, the bags and containers disclosed herein may be manufactured as multiple components and then joined together. Alternative manufacturing methods may be employed, such as compression molding, transfer molding, extrusion molding, blow molding, sheet extrusion, and thermoforming.

[0022] Now for reference Figures 1-5This paper illustrates a re-closable container 40 as disclosed herein, comprising a body 42 and a closure system 44 in an outward-folding configuration. In the outward-folding configuration, the inner wall 46 of the body 42 and the closure system 44 both face outwards. In a non-outward-folding configuration, the inner wall 46 of the body 42 and the closure system 44 face inwards, and the closure system 44 is configured to be closed. The container 40 may be made entirely of one or more elastomeric materials and may include one or more of unsaturated rubber, saturated rubber, or thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), as well as other elastomeric materials. When the container 40 is molded as a single piece, leakage paths along the edges of the bag are minimized or eliminated because no additional sealing is required along the edges of the container 40, in contrast to many prior art plastic zipper bags. By forming the container 40 as a single piece, the structural integrity of the container 40 is enhanced. Because the entire container 40 is constructed of an elastomeric material, the container 40 is considered a long-life container.

[0023] Reference Figures 1-4 The body 42 is defined by a first wall or front wall 48 and a second wall or rear wall 50, which are joined along a peripheral edge or seam 54 extending along a first side or left side 56, a second side or bottom side 58, and a third side or right side 60 of the body 42. While the body 42 of the present embodiment is a one-piece component, in some embodiments, the front wall 48 and rear wall 50 may be joined along the peripheral edge 54 by, for example, folding, heat sealing, and / or adhesive. In a configuration of use, a reservoir 62 is defined between the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50 of the body 42. The reservoir 62 is configured to receive and retain food or other materials placed therein for storage. Figure 4 As best illustrated, the upper portions 64 of the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50 are generally straight, while the lower portions 66 of the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50 are curved, and they connect to each other along a peripheral seam 54 at the bottom side 58 of the body 42. However, in alternative embodiments, the upper portion 64 need not be straight, and the lower portion 66 need not be curved. It should be understood that, due to the use of an elastomer to form the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50, gravity will cause the walls 48, 50 to deform or bend when the container 40 is placed on a placement surface (not shown). Furthermore, although the illustrated embodiment shows the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50 joined along a peripheral edge 54, other embodiments may include the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50 formed (integrally) without a peripheral edge 54.

[0024] Still refer to Figures 1-4The reclosable container 40 also includes a closure system 44 disposed above the body 42. The closure system 44 includes a first portion or male portion 70 and a second portion or female portion 72. The male portion 70 includes a front sealing strip 80 extending longitudinally across the container 40, and the female portion 72 includes a rear sealing strip 82 also extending longitudinally across the container 40. The front sealing strip 80 is disposed above the front wall 48 of the body 42. The rear sealing strip 82 is disposed above the rear wall 50 of the body 42. The front and rear sealing strips 80 and 82 define a closure mechanism including a first sealing profile or male sealing profile 84 defined by the front sealing strip 80 and a second sealing profile or female sealing profile 86 defined by the rear sealing strip 82. The front sealing strip 80 and the rear sealing strip 82 each include a male sealing profile 84 and a female sealing profile 86, and also include various thickened areas provided along the male portion 70 and the female portion 72 of the closure system 44, as described below. Furthermore, a handle or lip 88 is provided from each of the male portion 70 and the female portion 72, and the handle or lip 88 extends upward from the male portion 70 and the female portion 72. Each lip 88 defines a generally circular extension that extends upward from the front sealing strip 80 and the rear sealing strip 82. However, in an alternative embodiment, the lip 88 may be provided on either or both of the male portion 70 and the female portion 72. The lip 88 includes a plurality of longitudinal ribs 90 arranged horizontally thereon, which can help a user grip the lip 88 to open the container 40. The ribs 90 may be in the form of protrusions extending outward from the lip 88, or in the form of grooves extending into or completely through the lip 88. While the illustrated embodiment shows a lip 88 including rib 90, other embodiments may include a lip 88 without rib 90.

[0025] See details Figure 4A male sealing profile 84 is disposed on the male portion 70 of the closure system 44, and a female sealing profile 86 is disposed on the female portion 72 of the closure system 44. Therefore, the male sealing profile 84 and the female sealing profile 86 extend along opposing portions of the inner side 98 of the closure system 44. The male sealing profile 84 includes a male closure element 100 (e.g., a first male closure element), and the female sealing profile 86 includes a female closure element 102, both integrally formed with the male portion 70 and the female portion 72 of the closure system 44. In a configuration of use, the male closure element 100 extends inward from the sealing structure of the container 40 (e.g., outward from the front sealing strip 80), while the female closure element 102 includes a cavity 104 defined within the rear sealing strip 82. The male closure element 100 and the female closure element 102 are aligned with each other. The male sealing profile 84 also includes a barrier 106 (e.g., a second male closure element 100) disposed below the male closure element 100 and integrally formed with the front sealing strip 80. The male sealing profile 84 and the female sealing profile 86 will be combined below. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Let's have a more detailed discussion.

[0026] See also Figure 4 The container 40 is defined by a longitudinal axis or plane 108 extending through the peripheral edge 54, and a horizontal axis or plane 110 extending orthogonally through the longitudinal plane 108. Various dimensions of the container 40 are shown in the figure, including the height 112 of the male portion 70 of the closure system 44, the height 114 of the female portion 72 of the closure system 44, the height 116 of the body 42, and the height 118 of the container 40. Heights 112, 114, 116, and 118 are each measured along a line parallel to the longitudinal plane 108. The width 120 of the closure system 44 and the width 122 of the body 42 are also shown, defining the widest measurements of the closure system 44 and the body 42, respectively. Although widths 120 and 122 are illustrated at the widest point of the container 40, thus defining the widest width of the container 40 in the open configuration, the terms "width" and "height" should be interpreted as the height taken at any point on each corresponding element of the container 40.

[0027] The height 112 of the male portion 70 of the closed system 44 may be substantially the same as the height 114 of the female portion 72 of the closed system 44, or about 50% to about 100% of the height 114 of the female portion 72 of the closed system 44, or about 60% to about 90% of the height 114 of the female portion 72 of the closed system 44, or about 70% to about 80% of the height 114 of the female portion 72 of the closed system 44. Furthermore, the height 112 of the male portion 70 of the closed system 44 may be about 5% to about 35% of the height 116 of the main body 42, or about 10% to about 30% of the height 116 of the main body 42, or about 15% to about 25% of the height 116 of the main body 42. The height 112 of the male portion 70 may be about 2% to about 30% of the height 118 of the container 40, or about 5% to about 25% of the height 118 of the container 40, or about 10% to about 20% of the height 118 of the container 40. The width 120 of the closed system 44 may be about 100% to about 140% of the width 122 of the body 42, or about 110% to about 130% of the width 122 of the body 42, or about 115% to about 120% of the width 122 of the body 42.

[0028] Now for reference Figure 5The right side 60 of the closure system 44 is shown in more detail. While the following description refers to the right side 60 of the closure system 44, a similar description applies to the left side 56 of the closure system 44. The closure system 44 has at least one first protrusion 130 configured to contact a surface 132 at the right side 60 of the container 40 in an outward-folding configuration. The surface 132 is disposed between the male closure element 100 and the female closure element 102 and defines a width 134, at least the width of the protrusion 130. For this purpose, in the outward-folding configuration, the protrusion 130 can reduce the space (e.g., leakage path) between the closure system 44 and the surface 132 of the body 42. In the present embodiment, the male closure element 100 includes the protrusion 130 extending outward from a first distal end 136 of the male closure element 100. The female closure element 102 includes a plurality of protrusions 130, each extending outward from a second distal end 138 of the female closure element 102. When the container 40 is turned outward, the protrusion 130 at the first distal end 136 is positioned between the two protrusions 130 at the second distal end 138. The protrusion 130 at the first distal end 136 partially covers the cavity 104 of the right side 60 of the closure system 44 and prevents fluid in the cavity 104 from leaking from the right side 60 of the closure system 44. However, in some embodiments, the multiple protrusions 130 need not be configured to partially cover the cavity 104 and may be positioned at other locations on the closure system 44. Furthermore, while the protrusions 130 have a triangular cross-section in the current embodiment, different cross-sectional shapes are considered in alternative embodiments. For example, the cross-section of the protrusions 130 may be square, rectangular, hexagonal, circular, semi-circular, trapezoidal, etc. In addition, the female closure element 102 may include more or fewer protrusions (e.g., one, two, four, five, six, seven, eight, etc.).

[0029] Now for reference Figure 6 , showed Figures 1-5 A detailed cross-sectional view of the parent seal profile 86 of the central closure system 44. Specifically, Figure 6 and Figure 7 The detail view is relative to Figures 1-5 The container 40 is shown in the image. The female sealing profile 86 includes a base 150, a first upper arm 152, a second upper arm 154, a first lower arm 156, and a second lower arm 158. The first upper arm 152 and the first lower arm 156 are spaced apart from each other and extend towards each other from the base 150. Similarly, the second upper arm 154 and the second lower arm 158 are spaced apart from each other and extend towards each other from the base 150. The female sealing profile 86 also defines a cavity 104 configured to receive the male closure element 100 and defines a triangular cross-section having an interior angle 160 and a triangular angle 162. The female closure element 102 is symmetrical about a longitudinal center plane or centerline 164; however, alternative asymmetrical embodiments are also contemplated.

[0030] The first upper arm 152 and the second upper arm 154, as well as the first lower arm 156 and the second lower arm 158, are integrally formed with and extend outward from the female sealing profile 86. The first upper arm 152 and the first lower arm 156 define an opening 166 leading to the cavity 104 through which the head of the male closure element 100 is inserted to seal the container 40. An axis 168 perpendicular to the centerline 164 extends through the opening 166. The opening 166 is defined between the distal ends 170 of the first upper arm 152 and the first lower arm 156. When the male closure element 100 is inserted into or removed from the cavity 104, the first upper arm 152 and the second upper arm 154, as well as the first lower arm 156 and the second lower arm 158, are deflectable inward or outward.

[0031] Still refer to Figure 6 The female closure element 102 further defines a height 172 and a thickness 174, and the opening 166 defines a height 182. The base 150 includes an inner portion 184 and an outer portion 186. The inner portion 184 is defined by a vertical line or plane 188 extending perpendicularly through the longitudinal centerline 164 and through the innermost point 190 along the surface defining the cavity 104. Therefore, the inner portion 184 includes the entire cavity 104, while the outer portion 186 does not include any part of the cavity 104. The inner portion 184 also defines a thickness 192, measured in a direction parallel to the centerline 164, and the outer portion 186 defines a thickness 194, also measured in a direction parallel to the centerline 164. In some embodiments, the height 172 of the female closure element 102 may include the height of the inner portion 184.

[0032] The thickness 194 of the outer portion 186 is between about 0.5 mm and about 6.0 mm, or between about 1.0 mm and about 4.0 mm, or between about 1.5 mm and about 3.0 mm, or about 3.5 mm. In some embodiments, the height 172 of the female closure element is between about 10 mm and about 30 mm, or between about 15 mm and about 20 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the male closure element 100 is less than about 20.0 mm, or less than about 19.0 mm, or less than about 18.0 mm, or less than about 17.0 mm, or less than about 16.0 mm, or less than about 15.0 mm, or less than about 12.5 mm, or less than about 10.0 mm, or less than about 7.5 mm, or less than about 5.0 mm, or less than about 2.5 mm.

[0033] Continue to refer to Figure 6The thickness 194 of the outer portion 186 is about 5% to about 100% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184, or about 10% to about 50% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184, or about 15% to about 45% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184, or about 40% to about 50% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184. In some embodiments, the thickness 194 is at least 5%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30%, or at least 35%, or at least 40%, or at least 50%, or at least 55%, or at least 60%, or at least 70%, or at least 75%, or at least 80%, or at least 90%, or at least 100%, or at least 110%, or at least 125%, or at least 150%, or at least 175%, or at least 200%, or at least 250%, or at least 300% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184. The thickness 194 of the outer portion 186 is about 5% to about 80% of the thickness 174 of the female closure element 102, or about 10% to about 70% of the thickness 174 of the female closure element 102, or about 15% to about 35% of the thickness 174 of the female closure element 102.

[0034] Still refer to Figure 6 The cavity 104 includes a first sub-cavity 200 and a second sub-cavity 202. The first sub-cavity 200 is at least partially defined by inner surfaces 204 and 206, which define the inner surfaces of the first upper arm 152 and the first lower arm 156, respectively. The inner surfaces 204 and 206 also partially define an interior angle 160°. The first sub-cavity 200 is also at least partially defined by lateral surfaces 208 and 210. Furthermore, the second sub-cavity 202 is at least partially defined by inner surfaces 212 and 214, which define the inner surfaces of the second upper arm 154 and the second lower arm 158, respectively. The inner surfaces 212 and 214 also partially define an interior angle 160°. The second sub-cavity 202 is also at least partially defined by lateral surfaces 216 and 218. Inner surfaces 204, 206, 212, and 214 can be defined as sealing surfaces because these surfaces are partially aligned with the male closure element 100 to provide an enhanced sealing effect. Lateral surfaces 208, 210, 216, and 218 can at least partially define the contour of the male closure element 100, i.e., lateral surfaces 208, 210, 216, and 218 slope inward toward the centerline 164 from their intersection with the inner surfaces 204, 206, 212, and 214. A first sub-cavity 200 is configured to receive a first head element 234, and a second sub-cavity 202 is configured to receive a second head element 236.

[0035] like Figure 6As shown, the inner surface 220 defines the innermost surface of the cavity 104, and in the current embodiment, the inner surface 220 defines a triangular angle 162. In the current embodiment, the inner surface 220 generally follows the contour of the male closure element 100 and can be configured in various ways. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, one or more of the inner surface 220, lateral surface 208, lateral surface 210, lateral surface 216, and lateral surface 218 may not follow the contour of the male closure element 100. In the current embodiment, surfaces that follow corresponding contour portions can be considered to have similar shapes or curvatures defining their respective surfaces, i.e., they are mirror images of each other or have generally consistent contours. In some embodiments, more or fewer sub-cavities may be defined by the various surfaces defining the cavity 104, thereby forming more or fewer compartments for accommodating the male closure element 100. In some embodiments, the cavity 104 may not include the first sub-cavity 200 and the second sub-cavity 202. Accordingly, the cavity 104 may not be defined by the lateral surfaces 208, 210, 216, 218, but may only include the internal surface 220, which may extend from the intersection with the internal surfaces 204, 206 to define a circular or semi-circular cross-section.

[0036] Now for reference Figure 7 , showed Figures 1-5 A detailed view of the male closure element 100 of the central closure system 44. The male closure element 100 includes a rod 230 that extends outward from the front seal 80 and engages a head 232. The head 232 includes a first head element 234 and a second head element 236. The first head element 234 defines an upper corner 238 and a lower corner 240, which are arranged in a triangular configuration. The second head element 236 also defines a lower corner 240, which are also arranged in a triangular configuration. The head 232 and the rod 230 are integral components with the male closure element 100, which defines a height 244 and a thickness 246. The male closure element 100 also defines a thickened region 242, which defines a thickness 262. The thickness 262 at the lower end 264 of the thickened region 242 differs from the thickness 262 at the upper end 266. Furthermore, the female seal profile 86 includes an upper groove 268 defining a height 270 and positioned above the rod portion 230. The female seal profile 86 also includes a lower groove 272 defining a height 274 and positioned below the rod portion 230. The upper groove 268 is sized to accommodate the first upper arm 152, and the lower groove 272 is sized to accommodate the first lower arm 156. In the current embodiment, the height 274 is greater than the height 270. However, in some embodiments, the height 274 is substantially similar to or less than the height 270.

[0037] Still referencing Figure 7The thickness 262 of the thickened region 242 is about 10% to about 100% of the thickness 246 of the male closure element 100, or about 30% to about 80% of the thickness 246 of the male closure element 100, or at least 30% of the thickness 246 of the male closure element 100, or at least 40%, or at least 50%, or at least 60%, or at least 70%, or at least 80%. Furthermore, the thickness 276 of the rear wall 50 is about 5% to about 80% of the thickness 262 of the thickened region 242, or about 10% to about 70% of the thickness 262 of the thickened region 242, or about 15% to about 60% of the thickness 262 of the thickened region 242, or about 20% to 40% of the thickness 262 of the thickened region 242, or about 35% to about 45% of the thickness 262 of the thickened region 242.

[0038] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 The height 258 of the rod portion 230 is approximately 100% to approximately 500% of the height 182 of the opening 166, or approximately 110% to approximately 400% of the height 182 of the opening 166, or approximately 120% to approximately 300% of the height 182 of the opening 166, or at least 100% of the height 182 of the opening 166, or at least 110%, or at least 120%, or at least 150%, or at least 200%, or at least 250%, or at least 300%, or at least 350%, or at least 400%, or at least 450%. In some embodiments, the height 258 of the rod portion 230 is approximately 50% to approximately 100% of the height 182 of the opening 166, or approximately 75% to approximately 100% of the height 182 of the opening 166, or approximately 90% to approximately 100% of the height 182 of the opening 166.

[0039] Brief Reference Figure 8 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 Detailed views of the male sealing profile 84 and the female sealing profile 86 are shown in a closed configuration, and in the closed configuration, the male sealing profile 84 and the female sealing profile 86 define a total thickness of 278. See again. Figure 6 and Figure 7The thickness 194 of the outer portion 186 is approximately 10% to approximately 90% of the total thickness 278, or approximately 20% to approximately 80% of the total thickness 278, or approximately 30% to approximately 70% of the total thickness 278, or approximately 35% to approximately 50% of the total thickness 278, or at least 10% of the total thickness 278, or at least 20%, or at least 30%, or at least 40%, or at least 50%, or at least 60%, or at least 70%. In some embodiments, the thickness 174 of the female closure element 102 is at least 50% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44, or at least 60% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44, or at least 70% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44, or at least 80% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44, or at least 90% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44. In some embodiments, the thickness 174 of the female closure element 102 may be greater than the thickness 262 of the thickened region 242.

[0040] Further, in some embodiments, the thickness 262 of the thickened region 242 is less than 50% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44, or less than 40% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44, or less than 35% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44, or less than 30% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44, or less than 25% of the total thickness 278 of the closure system 44. In some embodiments, the height 258 of the rod 230 is about 10% to about 50% of the height 172 of the female closure element 102, or about 15% to about 40% of the height 172 of the female closure element 102, or about 20% to about 35% of the height 172 of the female closure element 102, or about 10% to about 20% of the height 172 of the female closure element 102, or less than 50% of the height 172 of the female closure element 102, or less than 40%, or less than 30%, or less than 20%. In some embodiments, the height 172 of the female closure element 102 is approximately 100% to approximately 200% of the height 244 of the male closure system 100, or approximately 120% to approximately 180% of the height 244 of the male closure system 100, or approximately 140% to approximately 160% of the height 244 of the male closure system 100, or at least 100% of the height 244 of the male closure system 100, or at least 120%, or at least 140%, or at least 150%, or at least 200%. In other words, the height 172 of the female closure element 102 may be greater than the height 244 of the male closure system 100. In some embodiments, the height 172 of the female closure element 102 includes the height of the inner portion 184, and the height 244 of the male closure system 100 includes the height of the thickened region 242. Therefore, the height of the inner portion 184 may be greater than the height of the thickened region 242.

[0041] Specific reference Figure 7 The closure system 44 includes a barrier 106 configured to protect the sealing structure, i.e., the engagement of the male closure element 100 and the female closure element 102. When the closure system 44 is closed and the container 40 is inverted, the contents (e.g., food, water, gas, etc.) within the storage container 62 may exert pressure on the closure system 44, potentially causing it to open unintentionally under compression. By positioning the barrier 106 below the sealing structure, the barrier 106 limits the pressure that may be directly applied to the sealing structure, as the contents contact the barrier 106, for example, a surface facing the storage container 62, before contacting the sealing structure. Furthermore, the barrier 106 is configured to resiliently deflect toward the sealing structure to form a gap 280, i.e., a closed volume, between the barrier 106 and the sealing structure. The gap 280 may include an air cavity capable of resisting pressure exerted by the contents. In some embodiments, the closure system 44 may include one or more gaps (e.g., two gaps, three gaps, four gaps, etc.) between the barrier 106 and the sealing structure to protect the sealing structure. In some embodiments, one or more dimensions of the closure system 44 may be modified to adjust the size of the gap 280, for example, to increase or decrease the effect of the air cavity.

[0042] Still refer to Figure 7 In the current embodiment, the barrier 106 extends outward from and is integrally formed with the front sealing strip 80. The barrier 106 defines a thickness 282 and a height 284. The barrier 106 is at least partially defined by a top surface 286, a side surface 288, and an inner surface 290 that directly contacts the reservoir 62. The barrier 106 is disposed between the reservoir 62 and the male closure element 100, extending below axis 168 when in the closed configuration. Therefore, when the male closure element 100 is inserted to seal the closure system 44, the barrier 106 blocks the direct path of contents from the reservoir 62 to the opening 166. For this purpose, by adding material between the sealing structure and the reservoir 62, the barrier 106 enhances the leak-proofness of the closure system 44.

[0043] Furthermore, a gap 280 is provided between the thickened region 242 and the gap 280, and defines a height 292, which also defines the spacing between the thickened region 242 and the barrier 106. While the current embodiment shows the barrier 106 integrally formed with the front seal 80, in some embodiments, the barrier 106 may be detachably attached to the front seal 80. In some cases, the barrier 106 may be arranged on one or more of the front seal 80 and the rear seal 82. Furthermore, in the current embodiment, the barrier 106 extends longitudinally across the front seal 80, i.e., in a continuous section from the left side 56 to the right side 60. For example, the horizontal length of the barrier 106, measured in a direction parallel to the horizontal plane 110 from the left side 56 to the right side 60, is similar to the longitudinal length of the closure system 44. However, in some embodiments, the barrier 106 may only partially extend across the front seal 80. In some embodiments, the barrier 106 may extend horizontally across the front sealing strip 80 in more than one segment (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven, etc.). In some embodiments, the barrier 106 may extend horizontally across the rear sealing strip 82.

[0044] When the barrier 106 deflects toward the sealing structure due to the pressure of the contents within the container 40, the top surface 286 and the inner portion 184 are at least partially in contact with each other, and the barrier 106 can protect the sealing structure from accidental separation. In the current embodiment, the top surface 286 is configured to at least partially contact the inner portion 184. However, the barrier 106 may be configured to contact other portions of the parent portion 72. In the current embodiment, the barrier 106 has a rectangular cross-section with a thickness 282 that is at least partially uniform in a direction parallel to the centerline 164. However, the thickness 282 of the rectangular cross-section need not be at least partially uniform in a direction parallel to the centerline 164. The barrier 106 may define a variety of cross-sectional areas and may be square, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc. Furthermore, the barrier 106 may include more or fewer protrusions (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, etc.). In some embodiments, the dimensions of the barrier 106 may be related to the dimensions of the container 40. For example, the barrier components included in a container that can hold a larger volume of fluid can be larger than those included in a different container that can hold a smaller volume of fluid.

[0045] Refer again Figure 6 and Figure 7The thickness 282 of the barrier 106 is about 10% to about 100% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184, or about 20% to about 95% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184, or about 30% to about 90% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184, or about 40% to about 85% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184, or about 50% to about 80% of the thickness 192 of the inner portion 184.

[0046] Figures 9 to 11 Different embodiments of the closed system 44 with barrier 106 are depicted. Figure 9 In the middle, the barrier 106 extends from the base 150 of the rear sealing strip 82 and is positioned below the thickened region 242 of the male closure element 100. In the closed configuration, Figure 9 The barrier 106 extends the entire length between axis 168 and front wall 48. Furthermore, Figure 9 The barrier element 106 can at least partially contact the front wall 48 to protect the sealing structure. (See reference...) Figure 10 The closure system 44 includes a multi-layered barrier 106. The barrier 106 includes a first layer 294 extending from the front seal 80 and a second layer 296 extending from the base 150 of the rear seal 82. In the closed configuration, the first layer 294 extends its entire length between the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50, and the second layer 296 extends its entire length between the axis 168 and the front wall 48. Furthermore, the first layer 294 may at least partially contact the front wall 48 below the male closure element 100, and the second layer 296 may at least partially contact the rear wall 50 below the female closure element 102. The first layer 294 and the second layer 296 are disposed between the reservoir 62 and the sealing structure.

[0047] Specific reference Figure 11 The closure system 44 includes a barrier 106 having a multi-layered structure, the layers being configured to engage with each other. Specifically, Figure 11 The barrier 106 includes a third layer 298 extending from the front sealing strip 80. Figure 11The barrier 106 further includes a fourth layer 300 and a fifth layer 302, both extending from the rear seal 82. In the closed configuration, the third layer 298, the fourth layer 300, and the fifth layer 302 all extend their entire length between the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50. The fourth layer 300 and the fifth layer 302 are spaced apart from each other, with the third layer 298 configured to be disposed between them. In the current embodiment, the third layer 298, the fourth layer 300, and the fifth layer 302 have substantially similar thicknesses. In some embodiments, the thickness of the third layer 298 may differ from that of the fourth layer 300 and the fifth layer 302. In some embodiments, the third layer 298, the fourth layer 300, and the fifth layer 302 may each have different thicknesses. For this purpose, the barrier 106 can define a variety of shapes and numbers of layers to protect the sealing structure of the closure system 44.

[0048] Figure 12 An embodiment of the closure system 44 is depicted, comprising a male closure element 100 and a female closure element 102, both of which are in direct contact with the reservoir 62 (e.g., without an intermediate structure such as a barrier 106). The internal portion 184 of the female closure element 102 extends deeper into the reservoir 62 than the male closure element 100. Therefore, when the contents of the reservoir 62 come into contact with the closure system 44, the female closure element 102 may initially resist pressure from the contents before the male closure element 100 or the interface between the female and male closure elements 102.

[0049] Tests have determined that a sealing structure with increased material content can accommodate a larger volume of contents when the container is inverted. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional areas of both the male closure element 100 and the female closure element 102 are increased. Any portion of the male sealing profile 84, such as the stem 230, head 232, and thickened region 242, can be varied to increase the cross-sectional area of ​​the male closure element 100. In some embodiments, the increase in the cross-sectional area of ​​the male closure element 100 is less than 5%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, greater than, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 100%, to enhance the sealing structure.

[0050] Similarly, any portion of the female closure element 102, including the outer portion 186 and the inner portion 184, can be enlarged to increase the cross-sectional area of ​​the female closure element 102. Any portion of the female seal profile 86 can vary to increase the cross-sectional area of ​​the female closure element 102. In the current embodiment, the thickness of the female portion 72 below the female closure element 102 varies continuously to form a rounded corner between the rear wall 50 and the female closure element 102. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the female closure element 102 is less than 5% larger, at least 5% larger, at least 10% larger, at least 15% larger, at least 20% larger, at least 25% larger, at least 30% larger, at least 35% larger, at least 40% larger, at least 45% larger, at least 50% larger, at least 60% larger, at least 70% larger, at least 80% larger, at least 90% larger, or at least 100% larger to enhance the sealing structure. For example, when the container is inverted, the sealing structure can withstand one gallon (i.e., 128 fl oz), approximately 8.34 pounds, or approximately 3.78 kilograms of water. In some embodiments, the sealing structure is configured to accommodate multiple volumes of fluid, such as 4 fl oz, 12 fl oz, 8 fl oz, 16 fl oz, 18 fl oz, 28 fl oz, 32 fl oz, 40 fl oz, 48 fl oz, 56 fl oz, 64 fl oz, or 104 fl oz of fluid in the container.

[0051] Furthermore, testing has determined that a height 258 of the rod 230, at least the same as the height 182 of the opening 166, enhances the sealing of the closure system 44. For this purpose, the opening 166 is preferably smaller than the rod 230. Preferably, opening and closing the closure system 44 requires a force between approximately 3 pounds (lbf) and approximately 10 pounds (lbf). In some embodiments, the required force is between approximately 3 lbf and approximately 20 lbf, or between approximately 5 lbf and approximately 15 lbf, or between approximately 7 lbf and approximately 12 lbf. When the bag or container is inverted, it is generally considered satisfactory if the closure system 44 can maintain the volume of a container filled with water. As described above, this characteristic is achieved through the design of the barrier 106. The barrier 106, positioned below the sealing structure, absorbs at least a portion of the pressure generated by the contents, pressure that would otherwise be borne solely by the sealing structure. Furthermore, this feature is also achieved through the design of the arms 152, 154, 156, and 158 of the female closure element 102 and the inner angle 160 of the head 232. The upper angle 238 of the head 232 controls the force required for the contents to leak out of the bag or container when in the closed configuration, while the lower angle 240 of the head 232 controls the force required to open and close the closure system 44.

[0052] Figures 13-16 Another embodiment of a bag 310 having the closure system 44 disclosed herein is shown. The bag 310 includes the same closure system 44 as described above. Figures 1-5 The container 40 has similar elements and designations. However, the bag 310 may differ in some respects, including the body 42. Figures 13-16 The bag 310 is shown in a non-outward and open state, with the seal configured to be closed.

[0053] like Figure 16 As best shown, the bag 310 is in the open state, with the upper portions 64 of the front wall 48 and the lower portions 66 of the rear wall 50 curved. The front wall 48 and the rear wall 50 join together at the peripheral edges 54 of the body 42 along the left side 56, the bottom side 58, and the right side 60. The central portions 68 of the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50 are generally straight. However, in alternative embodiments, the upper portions 64 and the lower portions 66 need not be curved, and the central portion 68 need not be straight. It should be understood that, due to the use of an elastomer to form the front wall 48 and the rear wall 50, gravity will cause the walls 46, 48 to deform or bend when the bag 310 is placed on a surface (not shown).

[0054] Specific reference Figure 13-16 The reclosable bag 310 also includes a closure system 44, which includes a first or male portion 70 and a second or female portion 72. The male portion 70 includes a front sealing strip 80 extending longitudinally across the container 40; the female portion 72 includes a rear sealing strip 82 also extending longitudinally across the container 40. The front sealing strip 80 may further extend to the left side 56, around the corner between the left side 56 and the male portion 70, and to the right side 60, around the corner between the right side 60 and the male portion 70. Similarly, the rear sealing strip 82 may further extend to the left side 56, around the corner between the left side 56 and the female portion 72, and to the right side 60, around the corner between the right side 60 and the female portion 72. Each of the male portion 70 and the female portion 72 is further provided with a handle or lip 88, and the handle or lip 88 defines a generally circular extension that extends upward from the front seal 80 and the rear seal 82, respectively. The lip 88 of the front seal 80 extends upward further than the lip 88 of the rear seal 82. However, in an alternative embodiment, the lip 88 of the front seal 80 does not need to extend upward further than the lip 88 of the rear seal 82.

[0055] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 18 This illustrates a second configuration of the sealing structure, in which the parent seal profile 86 differs from... Figure 17 The female seal profile 86 and the male seal profile 84 are different. Figure 18 The male sealing profile 84 is as described below. Figure 19 yes Figure 17 and Figure 18Detailed cross-sectional views of the male and female sealing profiles 84 and 86 in their closed configuration. Return to... Figure 18 The front sealing strip 80 includes a barrier 106 and a gap 280 disposed between the thickened region 242 (i.e., the lower groove 272) and the barrier 106. The barrier 106 defines a thickness 282 and a height 284. The barrier 106 is at least partially defined by a top surface 286, a side surface 288, and an inner surface 290 that directly contacts the reservoir 62. In the current embodiment, the barrier 106 extends longitudinally as a single, continuous section across the entire front sealing strip 80, i.e., from the left side 56 to the right side 60. However, in some embodiments, the barrier 106 may extend longitudinally only partially across the front sealing strip 80. In some embodiments, the barrier 106 may extend longitudinally across the front sealing strip 80 in more than one section (e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven, etc.). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the dimensions of the barrier 106 may be related to the dimensions of the bag 310. For example, a bag that can hold a larger amount of fluid may include a larger barrier than a different bag that can hold a smaller amount of fluid.

[0056] In the closed configuration, the inner portion 184 of the female closure element 102 is at least partially in contact with the side surface 288, and the gap 280 is a closed volume. In some cases, the volume of the gap 280 may be determined by the dimensions of the barrier 106. For example, one or more of the top surface 286, side surface 288, and inner surface 290 may define the height, length, or depth of the gap 280. The barrier 106 is disposed between the reservoir 62 and the male closure element 100, extending below the axis 168 in the closed configuration. Thus, the barrier 106 blocks a direct passage of contents from the reservoir 62 to the opening 166, into which the male closure element 100 can be inserted to seal the closure system 44. Thus, by adding material between the sealing structure and the reservoir 62, the barrier 106 enhances the leak-proofness of the closure system 44. Furthermore, the barrier 106 can continue to contact the female closure element 102 when the contents within the reservoir 62 exert pressure on it. In the current embodiment, the barrier 106 has a rectangular cross-section. The thickness 282 is at least partially uniform in a direction parallel to the centerline 164 and at least partially continuously varying (decreasing) below the axis 168. However, the barrier 106 can define various cross-sectional areas and can be square, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, etc. Furthermore, the profile defined by the front seal 80 follows the spherical shape of the inner surface 220 of the rear seal 82. For this purpose, the front seal 80 and the rear seal 82 have mutually mirrored spherical outer profiles and form a tapered neck of the bag 310. The tapered neck facilitates gripping the bag 310.

[0057] Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will understand, this subject matter is applicable to any type of bag, pouch, package, and various other storage containers, such as snack, sandwich, quart, and gallon-sized bags. This subject matter is also applicable to bags with double zippers, multiple zippers, or other types of closure mechanisms.

[0058] Industrial applicability The closure system described herein advantageously provides reusable containers or bags, including sealing systems with enhanced sealing capabilities, for providing sealing and unsealing functions for the end user.

[0059] Given the foregoing description, various modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this description should be construed as exemplary only, provided to enable those skilled in the art to make and use this disclosure. The proprietary rights to all modifications within the scope of this application are reserved. All patents and publications are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A container or bag made of an elastomer, comprising: A body, the body including a front wall and a rear wall, the front wall and the rear wall being configured to provide the internal volume of the container; as well as A closed system, the closed system comprising: The male portion has a male sealing profile, which includes a male closure element extending from the thickened region; The female portion has a female sealing profile, the female sealing profile including a female closure element and defining an opening to a cavity, wherein when the closure system is in a closed configuration, a centerline extends through the opening, the cavity, the male sealing profile, and the thickened area; and A barrier element is disposed between the internal volume and the male closure element. The axis extends through the opening and is perpendicular to the center line, and When in the closed configuration, the barrier extends below the axis.

2. The container according to claim 1, wherein the barrier is integrally formed with the closure system.

3. The container of claim 2, wherein the barrier is configured such that when the contents within the internal volume come into contact with the barrier, the barrier contacts the female closure element.

4. The container of claim 2, wherein the barrier is configured to at least partially contact the parent portion when in the closed configuration.

5. The container of claim 1, wherein the thickness of the barrier varies at least partially along the surface facing the internal volume.

6. The container of claim 1, wherein the thickness of the barrier is at least partially uniform along the surface facing the internal volume.

7. The container of claim 1, wherein the barrier extends integrally from the male portion of the closure system.

8. The container of claim 1, wherein the barrier comprises a first layer extending from the female portion of the closure system and a second layer extending from the male portion of the closure system.

9. The container of claim 1, wherein the closure system further comprises a gap having a distance between the male closure element and the barrier element, and The spacing is measured along a direction perpendicular to the center line.

10. The container of claim 1, wherein the height of the female closure element is greater than the height of the thickened region, and The height of the female closed element and the height of the thickened area are both measured along a direction perpendicular to the center line.

11. The container of claim 10, wherein the height of the female closure element is at least 100% of the height of the thickened region.

12. A container or bag made of an elastomer, comprising: A body, the body including a front wall and a rear wall, the front wall and the rear wall being configured to provide the internal volume of the container; as well as A closed system, the closed system comprising: The male portion has a male sealing profile, which includes a male closure element extending from the thickened region; The female portion has a female sealing profile, the female sealing profile including a female closure element and defining an opening to a cavity, wherein when the closure system is in a closed configuration, a centerline extends through the opening, the cavity, the male sealing profile, and the thickened area; and A barrier element extending from the male portion and disposed between the internal volume and the male closure element. The barrier is configured to engage with the parent closure element when the contents within the internal volume contact the barrier in the closed configuration.

13. The container of claim 12, wherein the closure system further comprises a gap having a distance between the male closure element and the barrier element. The spacing is measured along a direction perpendicular to the center line.

14. The container of claim 13, wherein the volume of the gap is defined at least by the height of the barrier. The height of the barrier is measured along a direction perpendicular to the center line.

15. The container of claim 12, wherein the barrier comprises a rectangular cross-section.

16. The container of claim 12, wherein the thickness of at least a portion of the parent shape portion varies continuously below the parent shape closure element. The thickness of the parent part is measured along a direction parallel to the center line.

17. A container or bag made of an elastomer, comprising: A body, the body including a front wall and a rear wall, the front wall and the rear wall being configured to provide the internal volume of the container; as well as A closed system, the closed system comprising: The male portion has a male sealing profile, the male sealing profile including a first male closure element extending from a thickened region; as well as The female portion has a female sealing profile, which includes a female closure element and defines an opening to a cavity. The female closure element includes an internal portion that includes the cavity. When the closure system is in a closed configuration, a centerline extends through the opening, the cavity, the first male closure element, and the thickened region. The height of the inner portion is greater than the height of the thickened area, and both the height of the inner portion and the height of the thickened area are measured along a direction perpendicular to the center line.

18. The container of claim 17, wherein the male portion further comprises a second male closure element disposed between the first male closure element and the internal volume.

19. The container of claim 18, wherein the male portion further includes a gap between the first male closure element and the second male closure element.

20. The container of claim 17, wherein the height of the interior portion is about 100% to about 200% of the height of the thickened region.

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