Container insert, method for manufacturing a container insert, assembly of a container insert and a container, and method for manufacturing an assembly of a container insert and a container.

Abstract

The present invention provides a container insert equipped with a liquid storage bag that can be evenly inflated while suppressing damage, from a folded state housed in an outer container. [Solution] The container insert 10 comprises a liquid outlet tube 20 and a liquid storage bag 30 having a storage space. The liquid storage bag 30 includes a spout 31 into which the liquid outlet tube 20 is inserted and removable, and a bag body 32. The bag body 32 has a first sheet portion 33 joined to the spout 31, a second sheet portion 34, and a sealing portion 35. The liquid storage bag 30 is attached to the liquid outlet tube 20 in a state where the bag body 32 is folded so that the second sheet portion 34 covers one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 along one end of the liquid outlet tube 20 housed in the storage space, and the first sheet portion 33 approaches one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20, and the sealing portion 35 is positioned between the outermost part of the first sheet portion 33 and the part of the second sheet portion 34 that covers one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an insert for a container, a method for manufacturing the insert for a container, an assembly of the insert for a container and a container, and a method for manufacturing the assembly of the insert for a container and a container.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in the fields of industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals, raw materials for cosmetics, etc., a liquid storage container is disposed inside an outer container, and a fluid content such as a liquid is filled into the liquid storage container. The liquid storage container is detachably attached to the outer container. After the content is used, the used liquid storage container is taken out from the outer container, and a new liquid storage container is attached inside the outer container. Thereby, compared with the case where the fluid content is directly filled into the outer container without using the liquid storage container, the labor for cleaning the outer container can be omitted.

[0003] As such a liquid storage container, Japanese Patent No. 6323757 (Patent Document 1) discloses a bag body provided with a spout, which is folded in a bellows shape through a longitudinal bending line extending along the longitudinal direction.

[0004] In recent years, in the beverage fields such as soft drinks and beer, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-501720 (Patent Document 2), beverages are filled into an inner case disposed inside an outer case.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, in Patent Document 1, when the accordion-folded bag body is placed in an outer container and unfolded from its folded state by its own force, the heat-sealed portion of the bag body is located on the outer circumference of the bag body. Therefore, when inflating the bag body, the heat-sealed portion is likely to catch on the outer container, which may prevent the bag body from unfolding properly, leading to concerns that the amount of contents filled may be unstable or that the bag body may tear. Patent Document 2 also does not adequately consider these concerns.

[0007] This disclosure has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a container insert equipped with a liquid storage bag that can be evenly inflated while suppressing damage from a folded state contained in an outer container, a method for manufacturing the container insert, an assembly of the container insert and a container, and a method for manufacturing the assembly of the container insert and a container. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A liquid storage bag according to this disclosure comprises a spout into which a liquid dispensing tube is inserted and removed, and a bag body joined to the spout, having a storage space inside that can accommodate one end of the liquid dispensing tube. The bag body includes a first sheet portion joined to the spout, a second sheet portion superimposed on the first sheet portion, and a sealing portion that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion together, forming the storage space between the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion. In a folded state in which the second sheet portion covers one end of the liquid dispensing tube along the one end of the liquid dispensing tube, and the bag body is folded so that the first sheet portion approaches one end of the liquid dispensing tube, the sealing portion is located between the outermost portion of the first sheet portion and the portion of the second sheet portion that covers one end of the liquid dispensing tube.

[0009] In the liquid storage bag according to the above disclosure, it is preferable that, in the folded state, the folded portion of the first sheet portion, which is folded inward from the outermost periphery, is located at approximately the same position as one end of the liquid outlet tube in the axial direction of the liquid outlet tube.

[0010] In a liquid storage bag according to the above disclosure, the spout may include a cylindrical body having a first end located on the outside of the bag and a second end located on the inside of the bag, a first flange portion provided at the first end, and a second flange portion provided on the cylindrical body away from the first flange portion toward the second end, and projecting radially outward from the cylindrical body than the first flange portion. In this case, the first sheet portion may be joined to the second flange portion.

[0011] An insert for a container according to this disclosure comprises a liquid dispensing tube that is detachably attached to the opening of a container, and a liquid storage bag that has a storage space and is attached to the liquid dispensing tube so as to house one end of the liquid dispensing tube in the storage space. The liquid storage bag includes a spout into which the liquid dispensing tube is detachably inserted, and a bag body joined to the spout. The bag body has a first sheet portion joined to the spout, a second sheet portion superimposed on the first sheet portion, and a sealing portion that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion together, forming the storage space between the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion. The liquid storage bag is attached to the liquid outlet tube in a folded state such that the second sheet portion covers one end of the liquid outlet tube so as to be along the one end of the liquid outlet tube housed in the above-mentioned storage space, and the first sheet portion approaches one end of the liquid outlet tube, and the sealing portion is located between the outermost part of the first sheet portion and the part of the second sheet portion that covers one end of the liquid outlet tube.

[0012] A method for manufacturing a container insert to be inserted into a container according to this disclosure comprises the steps of: preparing a liquid storage bag including a spout; a bag having a first sheet portion joined to the spout; a second sheet portion superimposed on the first sheet portion; and a sealing portion that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion and forms a storage space between the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion; and attaching the liquid storage bag to a liquid dispensing tube that is detachably attached to the opening of the container. The step of attaching the liquid storage bag to the liquid outlet tube is to prepare a cylindrical first jig having one end and the other end in the axial direction, with the one end being inserted into the storage space via the spout and capable of exhausting gas from the storage space to the outside; to prepare a cylindrical second jig into which the one end of the first jig can be inserted; to relatively insert the first jig into the storage space via the spout such that the other end of the first jig is located outside the bag and the one end of the first jig is located inside the storage space; and to cover the one end of the first jig with the second sheet portion so as to be aligned with the one end of the first jig contained in the storage space. The process includes: inserting one end of the first jig, which is covered by the second sheet portion, relative to the second jig; folding the bag so that the seal portion is located inside the portion of the first sheet portion that is located on the outermost periphery, while exhausting the gas inside the bag that is exposed from the second jig to the outside through the first jig; removing the first jig relative to the bag via the spout while maintaining the folded state of the bag; and inserting the liquid outlet tube relative to the storage space of the bag, which is maintaining the folded state, via the spout.

[0013] In the method for manufacturing a container insert according to the above disclosure, the step of relatively inserting the liquid outlet tube may include the step of relatively inserting one end of the liquid outlet tube through the spout into the storage space which is defined by the second sheet portion of the part that covered one end of the first jig and is housed inside the second jig, thereby attaching the liquid storage bag to the liquid outlet tube.

[0014] The method for manufacturing a container insert according to the above disclosure may further include the step of removing the liquid outlet tube to which the liquid storage bag is attached from the second jig.

[0015] The method for manufacturing a container insert according to the above disclosure may further include a step of pressing the bag against the second jig so as to maintain the folded state, before the step of relatively removing the first jig.

[0016] In the method for manufacturing a container insert according to the above disclosure, the spout may include a cylindrical body having a first end located on the outside of the bag and a second end located on the inside of the bag, a first flange portion provided at the first end, and a second flange portion provided on the cylindrical body away from the first flange portion toward the second end, and projecting radially outward from the cylindrical body than the first flange portion, and the first sheet portion may be joined to the second flange portion. In this case, the step of relatively inserting the first jig may include a step of inserting a gripping tool between the first flange portion and the second flange portion to grip the liquid storage bag before relatively inserting the first jig.

[0017] An assembly of a container and a container insert according to this disclosure comprises a container having an internal space and an opening communicating with the internal space, and a container insert assembled to the container. The container insert includes a liquid outlet tube having one end and detachably attached to the opening such that the one end is located in the internal space, and a liquid storage bag having a storage space and attached to the liquid outlet tube so as to house the one end of the liquid outlet tube in the storage space. The liquid storage bag includes a spout into which the liquid outlet tube is detachably inserted, and a bag body joined to the spout. The bag body has a first sheet portion joined to the spout, a second sheet portion superimposed on the first sheet portion, and a sealing portion that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion together, forming the storage space between the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion. The liquid storage bag is located in the internal space of the container. The liquid storage bag is an assembly of a container and a container insert attached to the liquid outlet tube, wherein the second sheet portion covers one end of the liquid outlet tube so as to be along the one end of the liquid outlet tube housed in the above-mentioned storage space, and the first sheet portion approaches the one end of the liquid outlet tube, and the bag is folded so that the sealing portion is located between the outermost part of the first sheet portion and the part of the second sheet portion that covers one end of the liquid outlet tube, and the liquid storage bag is attached to the liquid outlet tube.

[0018] A method for manufacturing an assembly of a container and a container insert according to this disclosure comprises the steps of: preparing a container having an internal space and an opening communicating with the internal space; preparing a container insert for assembly to the container; and assembling the container insert to the container. The container insert used includes a liquid outlet tube having one end and being detachably attached to the opening; and a liquid storage bag having a storage space and attached to the liquid outlet tube so as to house the one end of the liquid outlet tube in the storage space. The liquid storage bag includes a spout into which the liquid outlet tube is detachably inserted, and a bag body joined to the spout. The bag body has a first sheet portion joined to the spout, a second sheet portion superimposed on the first sheet portion, and a sealing portion that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion together, forming the storage space between the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion. The liquid storage bag is attached to the liquid outlet tube in the state in which the bag is folded so that the second sheet portion covers one end of the liquid outlet tube along the one end of the liquid outlet tube housed in the above-mentioned storage space, and the first sheet portion approaches one end of the liquid outlet tube, and the sealing portion is located between the outermost part of the first sheet portion and the part of the second sheet portion that covers one end of the liquid outlet tube. In the process of assembling the container insert into the opening, the liquid outlet tube is attached to the opening so that one end of the liquid outlet tube is located in the internal space and the liquid storage bag is positioned in the internal space of the container. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to this disclosure, it is possible to provide a container insert equipped with a liquid storage bag that can be evenly inflated while suppressing damage from a folded state housed in an outer container, a method for manufacturing the container insert, an assembly of the container insert and a container, and a method for manufacturing the assembly of the container insert and a container. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0020] [Figure 1]It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an assembly of an insert for a container and an outer container according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a state in which a liquid storage bag is filled with liquid in the assembly according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a developed view of the liquid storage bag showing a state before the liquid storage bag according to the embodiment is folded. [Figure 4] It is a perspective view showing a spout provided in the liquid storage bag according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] It is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged cross-section of the liquid storage bag along the line V-V shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 6] It is a manufacturing flow showing the manufacturing process of the insert for a container according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a view showing a step of relatively inserting a first jig into the accommodation space of the bag body in the manufacturing process of the insert for a container according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] It is a view showing a step of covering one end side of the first jig with the second sheet portion of the bag body in the manufacturing process of the insert for a container according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a view showing a step of relatively inserting one end side of the first jig covered with the second sheet portion into a second jig in the manufacturing process of the insert for a container according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a view showing a step of folding the bag body in the manufacturing process of the insert for a container according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a view showing a state after the step of folding the bag body shown in FIG. 10. [Figure 12] It is a view showing a step of relatively extracting the first jig from the bag body while maintaining the folded state in which the bag body is folded in the manufacturing process of the insert for a container according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a view showing a step of relatively inserting a liquid extraction tube into the bag body in which the folded state is maintained in the manufacturing process of the insert for a container according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a view showing a state after the step of relatively inserting the liquid extraction tube shown in FIG. 13. [Figure 15]This figure shows the process of removing the liquid outlet tube, to which the liquid storage bag is attached, from the second jig in the manufacturing process of the container insert according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] This is a manufacturing flow chart showing the manufacturing process of the assembly according to the embodiment. [Figure 17] This figure shows the process of assembling the container insert, which was manufactured through the container insert manufacturing process, into the outer container during the manufacturing process of the assembly according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] This is a manufacturing flow chart showing the manufacturing process for a modified container insert. [Figure 19] This figure shows the process of pressing a folded bag against a second jig in the manufacturing process of a container insert according to a modified example. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] The embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, the same or common parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the drawings, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0022] (Embodiment) Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an assembly of a container insert and an outer container according to an embodiment. The assembly 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the assembly 100 is an outer container 1 which serves as a container, to which a container insert 10 is attached, and comprises the outer container 1 and the container insert 10.

[0024] Outer container 1 is used to fill beverages such as alcoholic beverages like beer, sparkling wine, wine, sake, or distilled spirits, or non-alcoholic beverages like non-alcoholic beer, soft drinks, or carbonated drinks. However, outer container 1 is not limited to beverages, as long as it has a space in which liquid can be filled.

[0025] The outer container 1 includes a main body 2, an upper protective part 7, and a lower protective part 8. The main body 2 has an upper wall 3, a bottom wall 4, and a peripheral wall 5. A mouthpiece 6, which serves as an opening, is provided approximately in the center of the upper wall 3. The mouthpiece 6 is provided so as to communicate with the internal space of the main body 2. The mouthpiece 6 is formed in a cylindrical shape and is provided so as to be engageable with the first cylindrical part 21 of the container insert 10. The peripheral wall 5 is provided so as to connect the periphery of the upper wall 3 and the bottom wall 4. The main body 2 is made of a metal material such as aluminum, steel, or stainless steel. The main body 2 may also be made of a resin material.

[0026] The upper protective section 7 protects the upper part of the main body 2 and the nozzle 6. The upper protective section 7 is provided in an annular shape along the periphery of the upper wall 3. The upper protective section 7 is provided so as to surround the nozzle 6. The lower protective section 8 protects the bottom of the main body 2. The lower protective section 8 is provided in an annular shape along the periphery of the bottom wall 4.

[0027] The upper protective section 7 and the lower protective section 8 are connected to the main body 2, for example, by welding. The upper protective section 7 and the lower protective section 8 may also be molded integrally with the main body 2. Furthermore, the upper protective section 7 and the lower protective section 8 may be omitted.

[0028] The container insert 10 comprises a liquid dispensing tube 20 and a liquid storage bag 30. The liquid dispensing tube 20 is detachably attached to the nozzle portion 6. The liquid dispensing tube 20 is used to fill the liquid storage bag 30, which is inserted into the interior (internal space) of the main body portion 2, with liquid, and to dispense liquid from the liquid storage bag 30. The liquid dispensing tube 20 has one end 20a and the other end 20b. The liquid dispensing tube 20 is attached to the outer container 1 with one end 20a inserted into the interior of the main body portion 2 via the nozzle portion 6.

[0029] The liquid outlet tube 20 has a first cylindrical portion 21 and a second cylindrical portion 22. The first cylindrical portion 21 includes a first part 211 and a second part 212.

[0030] The first part 211 and the second part 212 have a cylindrical shape. The first part 211 is located above the second part 212. The inner and outer diameters of the first part 211 are larger than the inner and outer diameters of the second part 212, respectively.

[0031] The outer surface of the first part 211 is provided with an engaging portion (not shown) that is designed to engage with the inner circumferential surface of the nozzle portion 6. The first part 211 is housed within the nozzle portion 6 when the container insert 10 is attached to the outer container 1.

[0032] The second part 212 is provided so as to be continuous with the first part 211. The interior of the second part 212 communicates with the interior of the first part 211. In the above-described mounting state, the second part 212 is housed inside the main body 2. The second part 212 is provided with a through hole (not shown). In the above-described mounting state, the through hole communicates with the interior of the main body 2.

[0033] The second cylindrical portion 22 is provided so as to penetrate the first cylindrical portion 21. One end of the second cylindrical portion 22 constitutes one end 20a of the liquid outlet pipe 20. One end of the second cylindrical portion 22 is located outside the first cylindrical portion 21. The other end of the second cylindrical portion 22 is located inside the first cylindrical portion 21.

[0034] The other end of the second cylindrical portion 22 is provided with a first switching mechanism (not shown) for switching between a state in which gas can pass and a state in which gas cannot pass, and a second switching mechanism (not shown) for switching between a state in which liquid can pass and a state in which liquid cannot pass.

[0035] The first switching mechanism is provided to switch between an open state, which allows gas to be supplied into the main body 2 or exhausted from the main body 2 via the through-hole of the second portion 212 and the inside of the first cylindrical portion 21, and a closed state, which prevents gas from being supplied into the main body 2 or exhausted from the main body 2. The first switching mechanism is composed of, for example, a valve.

[0036] The second switching mechanism is provided to switch between an open state, which allows liquid to be supplied to the storage space S of the liquid storage bag 30 or liquid to be discharged from the liquid storage bag 30 via the second cylindrical portion 22, and a closed state, which prevents liquid from being supplied to the storage space S or liquid from being discharged. The second switching mechanism is composed of, for example, a valve.

[0037] The second cylindrical portion 22 has a large-diameter portion 221 and a small-diameter portion 222. The large-diameter portion 221 constitutes the upper part of the second cylindrical portion 22. The upper side of the large-diameter portion 221 is located inside the first cylindrical portion 21. The lower side of the large-diameter portion 221 is located outside the first cylindrical portion 21. The outer diameter of the large-diameter portion 221 is smaller than the inner diameter of the second portion 212. The outer circumferential surface of the portion of the large-diameter portion 221 that is exposed from the second cylindrical portion 22 is in close contact with the sealing portion 313 (see Figure 5) of the spout 31, which will be described later.

[0038] The small-diameter portion 222 constitutes the lower part of the second cylindrical portion 22. The small-diameter portion 222 is provided so as to be continuous with the large-diameter portion 221. The lower side of the large-diameter portion 221 and the small-diameter portion 222 are housed within the above-mentioned housing space S.

[0039] The liquid storage bag 30 is interchangeably attached to the liquid outlet tube 20. The liquid storage bag 30 has a storage space S, and one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 is housed in the storage space S.

[0040] The liquid storage bag 30 has a spout 31 and a bag body 32. A liquid outlet tube 20 is inserted into the spout 31 so as to be removable. When the liquid storage bag 30 is inserted, as described above, the outer surface of the large-diameter portion 221 is in close contact with the sealing portion 313. This seals the space between the outer surface and the sealing portion 313 airtight or liquid-tight. The spout 31 is joined to the bag body 32. The bag body 32 is housed inside the main body 2 in a folded state. The detailed configuration of the liquid storage bag 30 will be described later with reference to Figures 3 to 5.

[0041] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the assembly according to the embodiment in which the liquid storage bag is filled with liquid.

[0042] As shown in Figure 2, with the first and second switching mechanisms described above in the open state, the air inside the main body 2 is exhausted while a liquid such as a beverage is supplied into the liquid storage bag 30 (more specifically, the bag body 32) via the liquid outlet pipe 20. As a result, the bag body 32 expands to conform to the inner circumferential surface of the main body 2, and the bag body 32 is filled with liquid.

[0043] Furthermore, after the liquid has been filled into the bag 32, the first and second switching mechanisms described above are opened to supply gas into the outer container 1 and increase the internal pressure of the outer container 1, thereby allowing the liquid filled into the liquid storage bag 30 to be removed via the liquid outlet pipe 20. At this time, the gas supplied into the outer container 1 and the liquid filled into the liquid storage bag 30 do not come into direct contact, thus preventing the liquid from deteriorating.

[0044] After the liquid has been dispensed, the container insert 10 is removed from the outer container 1. Using the removed container insert 10, the liquid storage bag 30 is removed from the liquid dispensing tube 20, and a new liquid storage bag 30 is attached to the liquid dispensing tube 20. This eliminates the need to clean the outer container 1, compared to directly filling the outer container 1 with liquid.

[0045] Figure 3 is an unfolded view of the liquid storage bag according to the embodiment, showing the state before it is folded. Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the spout provided in the liquid storage bag according to the embodiment. Figure 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the liquid storage bag along the VV line shown in Figure 3.

[0046] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the liquid storage bag 30 has a bag body 32 which includes a first sheet portion 33, a second sheet portion 34, and a sealing portion 35.

[0047] The first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34 have a polygonal shape when unfolded. In this embodiment, the first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34 have, for example, an octagonal shape.

[0048] The first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34 are made of synthetic resin such as polyethylene or polypropylene. The first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34 may be made of any of a high-density polyethylene layer, a low-density polyethylene layer, a polyethylene terephthalate layer, or a nylon layer, or they may be made of a laminate including at least two of these layers.

[0049] Furthermore, the first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34 may be composed of a laminated film in which a light-shielding layer or oxygen barrier layer, such as aluminum foil or an aluminum vapor-deposited layer, is arranged between multiple synthetic resin layers.

[0050] The peripheral edges of the first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34 are sealed together by a sealing portion 35. This creates a accommodating space S between the first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34. The sealing portion 35 is formed, for example, by welding the first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34 together.

[0051] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the spout 31 has a cylindrical body 310 with a first end 31a and a second end 31b, a first flange portion 311, a second flange portion 312, and a sealing portion 313.

[0052] The spout 31 is joined to the first sheet portion 33, and the cylindrical body 310 penetrates the first sheet portion 33. The first end 31a is located on the outside of the bag body 32, and the second end 31b is located on the inside of the bag body 32.

[0053] The first flange portion 311 is provided at the first end 31a. The second flange portion 312 protrudes radially outward from the cylindrical body 310 compared to the first flange portion 311. The second flange portion 312 is provided on the cylindrical body 310, separated from the first flange portion 311 towards the second end 31b. This allows the gripping device 50 (see Figure 7) to be inserted between the first flange portion 311 and the second flange portion 312 to grip the liquid storage bag 32 when performing the step of attaching the bag 32 to the liquid outlet pipe 20, as will be described later.

[0054] When viewed from the axial direction of the cylindrical body 310, the first seat portion 33 is joined to the second flange portion 312, which protrudes from the first flange portion 311. The first seat portion 33 is welded to the main surface of the second flange portion 312 located on the first end 31a side. Specifically, the first seat portion 33 is provided with an opening through which the first flange portion 311 can pass, and the periphery of this opening is welded to the main surface of the second flange portion 312. This allows the first seat portion 33 to be easily welded using heat sealing or the like.

[0055] The sealing portion 313 is provided on the inner circumferential surface 310a of the cylindrical body 310. The sealing portion 313 adheres tightly to the outer circumferential surface of the second cylindrical portion 22 of the liquid outlet tube 20 inserted into the spout 31, thereby sealing the space between the sealing portion 313 and the outer circumferential surface in an airtight or liquid-tight manner.

[0056] As shown again in Figure 1, the liquid storage bag 30 is attached to the liquid outlet tube 20 with the bag body 32 folded. In the folded state, the second sheet portion 34 covers one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 so as to be along the one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 housed in the storage space S, and the bag body 32 is folded so that the first sheet portion 33 approaches one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20. In this state, the seal portion 35 is located between the first sheet portion 33, which is located on the outermost periphery, and the second sheet portion 34, which covers one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20.

[0057] In this way, by folding the bag 32, the liquid storage bag 30 can be inserted into the main body 2 via the mouthpiece 6. Furthermore, in the folded state, the sealing portion 35 is positioned between the first sheet portion 33 located on the outermost periphery and the second sheet portion 34 covering one end 20a of the liquid dispensing tube 20. As shown in Figure 2, this prevents the sealing portion 35 from catching on the inner surface of the main body 2 when inflating the bag 32. As a result, the bag 32 can be inflated evenly while preventing damage to the bag 32.

[0058] Furthermore, in the folded state described above, the folded portion 33c of the first sheet portion 33, which is folded inward from the outermost periphery, is located in approximately the same position as one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 in the axial direction of the liquid outlet tube 20.

[0059] This prevents the folded portion 33c from getting caught on the bottom of the main body 2 during the process of inflating the bag 32. As a result, damage to the bag 32 is more effectively suppressed, and the bag 32 can be inflated evenly.

[0060] Figure 6 is a manufacturing flow chart showing the manufacturing process of a container insert according to an embodiment. Figures 7 to 15 are diagrams showing a predetermined step in the manufacturing process of the container insert, or the state after a predetermined step. The manufacturing method of the container insert 10 will be described with reference to Figures 6 to 15.

[0061] As shown in Figure 6, the manufacturing method for the container insert 10 includes the steps of preparing a liquid storage bag 30 (S10), attaching the liquid storage bag 30 to the liquid outlet tube 20 (S20), and removing the liquid outlet tube 20 with the liquid storage bag 30 attached from the second jig (S30).

[0062] In manufacturing the container insert 10, first, in step (S10), a liquid storage bag 30 is prepared, which includes a spout 31, a first sheet portion 33 joined to the spout 31, a second sheet portion 34 superimposed on the first sheet portion 33, and a bag body 32 having a sealing portion 35 that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34, forming a storage space S between the first sheet portion 33 and the second sheet portion 34.

[0063] Next, process (S20) is carried out. In carrying out process (S20), a cylindrical first jig 40 (see Figure 7) is prepared in process (S21). The first jig 40 has one end 40a (see Figure 7) and the other end 40b (see Figure 7) in the axial direction, and is provided so that the gas in the containment space S can be exhausted to the outside when the one end 40a is inserted into the containment space S via the spout 31.

[0064] Furthermore, in step (S22), a cylindrical second jig 60 (see Figure 9) is prepared. The second jig 60 is provided so that one end 40a of the first jig 40 can be inserted into it. Note that the step (S22) of preparing the second jig described above only needs to be carried out before step (S25), which will be described later, is performed.

[0065] Figure 7 shows the process of relatively inserting the first jig into the storage space of the bag body in the manufacturing process of the container insert according to the embodiment.

[0066] Next, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, in step (S23), one end 40a of the first jig 40 is inserted relative to the storage space S of the bag 32. More specifically, the first jig 40 is inserted into the storage space S via the spout 31 with one end 40a of the first jig 40 so that the other end 40b of the first jig 40 is located outside the bag 32.

[0067] Alternatively, the first jig 40 may be inserted into the storage space S by moving it as shown by the arrow in Figure 7, or the first jig 40 may be inserted into the storage space S by moving the liquid storage bag 30 closer to the first jig 40.

[0068] The first jig 40 has a shape substantially the same as that of the liquid extraction tube 20. The first jig 40 has a first cylindrical portion 41 and a second cylindrical portion 42. The first cylindrical portion 41 has a bottom portion 411. A through hole is provided in the center of the bottom portion 411.

[0069] The second cylindrical portion 42 is connected to the bottom portion 411 such that its interior communicates with the interior of the first cylindrical portion 41 through the through hole. The length of the second cylindrical portion 42 along the axial direction is approximately the same as the length of the second cylindrical portion 22 of the liquid outlet pipe 20.

[0070] The second cylindrical portion 42 has a large-diameter portion 421 and a small-diameter portion 422. The large-diameter portion 421 constitutes the upper part of the second cylindrical portion 42. The large-diameter portion 421 has substantially the same shape as the large-diameter portion 221 described above. The outer diameter of the large-diameter portion 421 is smaller than the inner diameter of the first cylindrical portion 41. A through hole 423 is provided in the peripheral wall portion of the large-diameter portion 421. The through hole 423 is provided on the lower side of the peripheral wall portion. The small-diameter portion 422 constitutes the lower part of the second cylindrical portion 42. The small-diameter portion 422 is provided so as to be continuous with the large-diameter portion 421.

[0071] Before inserting the first jig 40 into the containment space S, the gripping tool 50 may be inserted between the first flange portion 311 and the second flange portion 312 to grip the liquid containment bag 30. Specifically, the gripping tool 50 has a hook portion 51 at its tip, and this hook portion 51 is inserted between the first flange portion 311 and the second flange portion 312. By hooking the spout 31 onto the hook portion 51 in this way, the liquid containment bag 30 is gripped. By gripping the liquid containment bag 30 with the gripping tool 50, the first jig 40 can be easily inserted.

[0072] The bottom portion 411 of the first cylindrical portion 41 is provided so as to abut against the first flange portion 311, and the large-diameter portion 421 is provided so as to be insertable into the spout 31. As a result, when the first jig 40 is inserted into the housing space S, the first cylindrical portion 41 is located outside the housing space S. Also, when the first jig 40 is inserted into the housing space S, the outer circumferential surface of the large-diameter portion 421 is in close contact with the sealing portion 313 provided on the inner circumferential surface of the spout 31. Furthermore, the lower side of the large-diameter portion 421 and the small-diameter portion 422 are located inside the housing space S. In this state, the through hole 423 provided in the large-diameter portion 421 communicates with the housing space S.

[0073] The first jig 40 may be inserted when the bag 32 is inflated, or it may be inserted while spreading the bag 32 with one end 40a of the first jig 40.

[0074] Figure 8 shows the process of covering one end of the first jig with the second sheet portion of the bag body in the manufacturing process of the container insert according to the embodiment.

[0075] Next, as shown in Figures 6 and 8, in step (S24), one end 40a of the first jig 40 is covered with the second sheet portion 34. More specifically, the one end 40a of the first jig 40 is covered with the second sheet portion 34 so as to follow the one end 40a of the first jig 40 housed in the housing space S. As a result, the lower side and the circumference around the axis of the small diameter portion 422 are covered with the second sheet portion 34. Furthermore, the first sheet portion 33 curves in a roughly C-shape, separating one end from the second flange portion 312 radially outward from the first jig 40, and the seal portion 35 is shaped to face the one end 40a of the first jig 40 below the second flange portion 312.

[0076] Figure 9 shows a step in the manufacturing process of a container insert according to an embodiment, in which one end of the first jig, covered by the second sheet portion, is inserted relative to the second jig.

[0077] Next, as shown in Figures 6 and 9, in step (S25), one end 40a of the first jig 40, which is covered by the second sheet portion 34, is inserted relative to the second jig 60. Specifically, as shown by arrow AR1 in Figure 9, the first jig 40 is moved so that one end 40a of the first jig 40 is inserted into the second jig 60. Alternatively, the second jig 60 may be moved closer to the first jig 40 so that one end 40a of the first jig 40 is inserted into the second jig 60.

[0078] The second jig 60 has a cylindrical portion 61 and a base portion 62. The cylindrical portion 61 extends along the axial direction. The base portion 62 protrudes radially outward from the lower end of the cylindrical portion 61. The base portion 62 is provided with an opening that communicates with the cylindrical portion 61. This makes it easy to clean the second jig 60 and keeps it clean and hygienic. One end 40a of the first jig 40 is inserted into the inside of the cylindrical portion 61.

[0079] Figure 10 shows the process of folding the bag in the manufacturing process of the container insert according to the embodiment. Figure 11 shows the state after the folding process of the bag shown in Figure 10.

[0080] Next, as shown in Figures 6 and 10, the bag 32 is folded in step (S26). Specifically, as shown in Figures 10 and 11, the gas inside the bag 32 in the portion exposed from the second jig 60 is exhausted to the outside through the through-hole 423 and the inside of the cylindrical first jig 40, and the first sheet portion 33 is brought closer to one end 40a of the first jig 40 as shown by arrow AR2 in the figure, so that it is aligned with the second jig 60 (cylindrical portion 61), and the bag 32 is folded so that the seal portion 35 is located between the first sheet portion 33 at the outermost circumference and the second sheet portion 34 that covers one end 40a of the first jig 40.

[0081] In this case, the folded portion 33c of the first sheet portion 33, which is folded inward from the outermost periphery, is located in approximately the same position as one end 40a of the first jig 40 in the axial direction of the first jig 40.

[0082] Figure 12 shows the process of removing the first jig from the bag while maintaining the folded state of the bag body in the manufacturing process of the container insert according to the embodiment.

[0083] Next, as shown in Figures 6 and 12, in step (S27), while maintaining the folded state of the bag 32, the first jig 40 is removed from the bag 32 via the spout 31. Specifically, for example, with the folded bag 32 and the second jig 60 fixed together with a fixing device (not shown), the first jig 40 is moved as shown by arrow AR3 in Figure 12. Alternatively, with the first jig 40 fixed and the bag 32 held by the second jig 60 so as to maintain the folded state, the second jig 60 may be moved away from the first jig 40.

[0084] Figure 13 shows the manufacturing process of a container insert according to an embodiment, in which a liquid dispensing tube is inserted relative to a bag body that maintains a folded state. Figure 14 shows the state after the process of inserting the liquid dispensing tube relative to the bag body shown in Figure 13.

[0085] Next, as shown in Figures 6 and 13, in step (S28), the liquid outlet tube 20 is inserted relative to the folded bag 32. Specifically, as shown in Figures 13 and 14, with the folded bag 32 and the second jig 60 fixed together with a fixing device (not shown), the liquid outlet tube 20 is moved as indicated by arrow AR4 in Figure 13, and one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 is inserted into the storage space S via the spout 31.

[0086] More specifically, the liquid outlet tube 20 is inserted via the spout 31 into the storage space of the portion that is defined by the second sheet portion 34 covering one end 40a of the first jig 40 and is housed inside the second jig 60, and the liquid storage bag 30 is attached to the liquid outlet tube 20.

[0087] Alternatively, with the liquid outlet tube 20 fixed in place, the second jig 60 holding the folded bag body 32 may be moved to insert one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 into the storage space S.

[0088] As shown in Figure 14, when the liquid outlet tube 20 is inserted, the second sheet portion 34 covers the one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20, which is housed in the containment space S, and the bag body 32 is folded so that the first sheet portion 33 approaches the one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20. The seal portion 35 is located between the first sheet portion 33, which is located on the outermost periphery, and the second sheet portion 34, which covers the one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20. Furthermore, the folded portion 33c of the first sheet portion 33, which is folded inward from the outermost periphery, is located in approximately the same position as the one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 in the axial direction of the liquid outlet tube 20.

[0089] Figure 15 shows the process of removing the liquid outlet tube, to which the liquid storage bag is attached, from the second jig in the manufacturing process of the container insert according to the embodiment.

[0090] Next, as shown in Figures 6 and 15, in step (S30), the liquid outlet tube 20 to which the liquid container bag 30 is attached is removed from the second jig 60. The liquid outlet tube 20 to which the liquid container bag 30 is attached is removed relative to the second jig 60. Specifically, with the second jig 60 fixed by a fixing device (not shown), the liquid outlet tube 20 to which the liquid container bag 30 is attached is moved as shown by arrow AR5 in Figure 15. Alternatively, the second jig 60 may be moved while the liquid outlet tube 20 is fixed.

[0091] The container insert 10 according to the embodiment can be manufactured through the process described above.

[0092] Figure 16 is a manufacturing flow chart showing the manufacturing process of the assembly according to the embodiment. Figure 17 is a diagram showing a predetermined step in the manufacturing process of the assembly according to the embodiment. The manufacturing method of the assembly 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 16 and 17.

[0093] As shown in Figure 16, the manufacturing process for the assembly 100 includes the steps of preparing the outer container 1 (S50), preparing the container insert 10 for assembly into the outer container 1 (S60), and assembling the container insert 10 into the outer container 1 (S70).

[0094] In the step of preparing the outer container 1 (S50), the outer container 1 having a mouthpiece portion 6 (opening) that communicates with the internal space is prepared. In the step of preparing the container insert 10 (S60), the container insert 10 is prepared, in which a folded liquid storage bag 30 is attached to a liquid outlet tube 20.

[0095] Figure 17 shows the process of assembling the container insert, manufactured through the container insert manufacturing process, to the outer container in the manufacturing process of the assembly according to the embodiment. Next, as shown in Figure 17, the liquid outlet tube 20 is attached to the mouthpiece 6 such that one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 is located inside the main body 2 (internal space) and the liquid storage bag 30 is placed in the internal space. Specifically, one end of the container insert 10 (the end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 to which the folded liquid storage bag 30 is attached) is inserted into the outer container 1 via the mouthpiece 6. Note that the outer diameter of the folded bag 32 is smaller than the inner diameter of the mouthpiece 6, so when inserting one end 20a of the liquid outlet tube 20 into the outer container 1, the bag 32 passes through the mouthpiece 6 while maintaining its folded state. Next, the other end of the container insert 10 (the other end 20b of the liquid outlet tube 20) is engaged with the nozzle 6, and the container insert 10 is attached to the outer container 1. This completes the manufacture of the assembly 100. In the assembly 100, as described above, while exhausting the air from the main body 2 of the outer container 1, a liquid such as a beverage is supplied into the liquid storage bag 30 via the second cylindrical portion 22 of the liquid outlet tube 20. As a result, the bag 32 expands to conform to the inner circumferential surface of the main body 2, and the bag 32 is filled with liquid.

[0096] Figure 18 is a manufacturing flow chart showing a modified example of the manufacturing process for a container insert. A modified example of the manufacturing method for the container insert 10 will be described with reference to Figure 18.

[0097] As shown in Figure 18, this modified version differs from the manufacturing method of the container insert 10 according to the embodiment in that, in the step of attaching the liquid storage bag 30 to the liquid outlet tube 20 (S20A), before the step of removing the first jig 40 (S27), the bag body 32 is pressed against the second jig 60 (S26A) so as to maintain the folded state. The other steps are carried out in accordance with the manufacturing method of the container insert 10 according to the embodiment.

[0098] Figure 19 shows a step in the manufacturing process of a modified container insert in which the bag body is pressed against a second jig so as to maintain the folded state.

[0099] As shown in Figures 18 and 19, in step (S26A), specifically, for example, the bag 32 is pressed against the second jig 60 using an expandable annular elastic member 90. More specifically, the second jig 60 and the portion of the bag 32 exposed from the second jig 60 are placed inside the stretched elastic member 90, and the elastic member 90 is contracted. The contraction force of the elastic member 90 presses the bag 32 against the second jig 60. By pressing the bag 32 against the second jig 60 in this way so that the folded state is maintained, the first jig 40 can be easily removed from the bag 32 in a subsequent step.

[0100] As described above, in the manufacturing process of the container insert and its modified form, a container insert 10 having the folded state described above is manufactured. Furthermore, the container insert 10 is used in the assembly and in the manufacturing direction of the assembly. Therefore, as described above, when supplying liquid to inflate the bag 32, it is possible to prevent the seal portion 35 from getting caught on the inner surface of the main body portion 2. As a result, the bag 32 can be inflated evenly while preventing damage to the bag 32.

[0101] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and all modifications are within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0102] 1 Outer container, 2 Main body, 3 Top wall, 4 Bottom wall, 5 Peripheral wall, 6 Mouthpiece, 7 Upper protective part, 8 Lower protective part, 10 Insertion tool for container, 20 Liquid dispensing tube, 20a One end, 20b Other end, 21 First cylindrical part, 22 Second cylindrical part, 30 Liquid storage bag, 31 Spout, 31a First end, 31b Second end, 32 Bag body, 33 First sheet part, 33c Folded part, 34 Second sheet part, 35 Seal part, 40 First jig, 40a One end, 40b Other end, 41 First cylindrical part, 42 Second cylindrical part, 50 Gripping tool, 51 Hook part, 60 Second jig, 61 Cylindrical part, 62 Base part, 90 Elastic member, 100 Assembly, 211 First part, 212 Second section, 221 large diameter section, 222 small diameter section, 310 cylindrical body, 310a inner circumferential surface, 311 first flange section, 312 second flange section, 313 sealing section, 411 bottom section, 421 large diameter section, 422 small diameter section, 423 through hole.

Claims

1. A liquid dispensing tube that is detachably attached to the opening of the container, A liquid storage bag having a storage space and attached to the liquid outlet tube so as to house one end of the liquid outlet tube in the storage space, The liquid-containing bag includes a spout into which the liquid dispensing tube is inserted and detachably, and a bag body joined to the spout. The bag body comprises a first sheet portion joined to the spout, a second sheet portion superimposed on the first sheet portion, and a sealing portion that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion, forming the storage space between the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion. A container insert, wherein the liquid storage bag is attached to the liquid outlet tube, with the second sheet portion covering one end of the liquid outlet tube so as to be along the one end of the liquid outlet tube housed in the storage space, and the first sheet portion approaching the one end of the liquid outlet tube, and the bag body folded so that the sealing portion is located between the outermost portion of the first sheet portion and the portion of the second sheet portion covering one end of the liquid outlet tube.

2. A method for manufacturing a container insert that is inserted into a container, A step of preparing a liquid storage bag, which includes a spout, a first sheet portion joined to the spout, a second sheet portion superimposed on the first sheet portion, and a bag body having a sealing portion that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion together and forms a storage space between the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion, The process includes the step of attaching the liquid storage bag to a liquid dispensing tube that is detachably attached to the opening of the container, The step of attaching the liquid storage bag to the liquid extraction tube is: A step of preparing a cylindrical first jig having one end and the other end in the axial direction, the one end being inserted into the containment space via the spout, and the gas in the containment space being able to be exhausted to the outside; A step of preparing a cylindrical second jig into which one end of the first jig is inserted, A step of inserting the first jig into the storage space via the spout such that the other end of the first jig is located outside the bag body and the one end of the first jig is located inside the storage space, A step of covering the one end of the first jig with the second sheet portion so as to be aligned with the one end of the first jig housed in the aforementioned housing space, A step of inserting the one end of the first jig, which is covered by the second sheet portion, relative to the second jig, The process of folding the bag so that the sealing portion is positioned between the outermost portion of the first sheet portion and the portion of the second sheet portion that covers the one end of the first sheet portion, while exhausting the gas inside the bag in the portion exposed from the second jig to the outside through the first jig, and bringing the first sheet portion closer to the one end of the first jig along the second jig, The process of removing the first jig from the bag body through the spout while maintaining the folded state of the bag body, A method for manufacturing a container insert, comprising the step of relatively inserting the liquid dispensing tube through the spout into the storage space of the bag body, which maintains the folded state.

3. The method for manufacturing a container insert according to claim 2, wherein the step of inserting the liquid extraction tube relative to the liquid is defined by the second sheet portion of the portion that covered one end of the first jig, and the step of inserting one end of the liquid extraction tube relative to the liquid storage bag via the spout into the storage space of the portion housed inside the second jig, thereby attaching the liquid storage bag to the liquid extraction tube.

4. A method for manufacturing a container insert according to claim 3, further comprising the step of removing the liquid outlet tube to which the liquid storage bag is attached from the second jig.

5. A method for manufacturing a container insert according to any one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising the step of pressing the bag against the second jig so as to maintain the folded state before the step of relatively removing the first jig.

6. The spout is provided so as to penetrate the first sheet portion and includes a cylindrical body having a first end located on the outside of the bag body and a second end located on the inside of the bag body, a first flange portion provided at the first end, and a second flange portion provided on the cylindrical body away from the first flange portion toward the second end, and projecting radially outward from the cylindrical body than the first flange portion. The first seat portion is joined to the second flange portion. The method for manufacturing a container insert according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the step of relatively inserting the first jig comprises the step of inserting a gripping device between the first flange portion and the second flange portion to grip the liquid storage bag before relatively inserting the first jig.

7. A container having an opening that communicates with the internal space, The facility comprises a container insert assembled to the aforementioned opening, The container insert includes a liquid dispensing tube having one end and being detachably attached to the opening such that the one end is located in the internal space, and a liquid storage bag having a storage space and being attached to the liquid dispensing tube such that the one end of the liquid dispensing tube is housed in the storage space. The liquid-containing bag includes a spout into which the liquid dispensing tube is inserted and detachably, and a bag body joined to the spout. The bag body comprises a first sheet portion joined to the spout, a second sheet portion superimposed on the first sheet portion, and a sealing portion that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion, forming the storage space between the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion. The liquid storage bag is placed in the internal space of the container, The liquid storage bag is an assembly of a container and a container insert attached to the liquid outlet tube, wherein the second sheet portion covers the one end of the liquid outlet tube so as to be along the one end of the liquid outlet tube housed in the storage space, and the first sheet portion approaches the one end of the liquid outlet tube, and the bag is folded so that the sealing portion is located between the outermost portion of the first sheet portion and the portion of the second sheet portion that covers the one end of the liquid outlet tube.

8. A step of preparing a container having an opening that communicates with the internal space, A step of preparing a container insert for assembly into the aforementioned opening, The process includes the step of assembling the container insert into the opening, The container insert used includes a liquid dispensing tube having one end and being detachably attached to the opening, and a liquid storage bag having a storage space and attached to the liquid dispensing tube so as to house the one end of the liquid dispensing tube in the storage space. The liquid storage bag includes a spout into which the liquid dispensing tube is inserted and detachably, and a bag body joined to the spout. The bag body comprises a first sheet portion joined to the spout, a second sheet portion superimposed on the first sheet portion, and a sealing portion that joins the peripheral edges of the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion, forming the storage space between the first sheet portion and the second sheet portion. The liquid storage bag is attached to the liquid outlet tube in the state in which the bag is folded such that the second sheet portion covers the one end of the liquid outlet tube so as to be along the one end of the liquid outlet tube housed in the storage space, and the first sheet portion approaches the one end of the liquid outlet tube, and the sealing portion is located between the outermost part of the first sheet portion and the part of the second sheet portion that covers the one end of the liquid outlet tube. A method for manufacturing an assembly of a container and a container insert, comprising the step of assembling the container insert into the opening, wherein the liquid extraction tube is attached to the opening such that one end of the liquid extraction tube is located in the internal space and the liquid storage bag is positioned in the internal space of the container.

Images