Closure for flexible bag

Abstract

A retrofittable sealing device designed for substantially airtight and watertight closures for an open flexible bag. The device comprises a flat generally resilient batten that may include a grip region and a hook and catch with a snap fitting fastener at its ends, the snap fit having bosses and cooperating sockets. There may be a central rigid portion and bendy ends, integrated in one material. There may be concave cross-section and various fastening mechanisms, such as buckles, magnetic clips, hook & loop or Velcro™, snap clips, or ratchets. To use: near the opening of the bag, the bag is wrapped around the batten. This device offers a versatile solution applicable to a wide range of flexible bags.

Description

CLOSURE FOR FLEXIBLE BAG TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This invention relates generally to kitchen and lifestyle accessories, specifically focusing on devices for sealing flexible bags used to store food and other items, providing a substantially waterproof and airtight closure. BACKGROUND

[0002] Packaging often fails to provide effective resealing once opened. If there is leftover stuff in the packaging, this forces users to transfer the pack contents to secondary containers.

[0003] Other solutions are available to reseal the packaging, but they are inadequate: twist ties, rubber bands, plastic clips, metal clips and / or pegs. These solutions do not offer sufficient protection for the contents against moisture, air, and vermin, resulting in spoilage and waste.

[0004] Existing roll-top bags in the outdoors industry incorporate stiffening strips that seal the bags but are integral to the bags themselves and not transferable to other bags. Traditional sealing solutions like twist ties, rubber bands, or plastic clips do not offer the same level of protection against moisture, air, and pests, often leading to spoilage and waste.

[0005] The above various resealing methods are summarised below: a. Twist ties and rubber bands, which are simple but do not provide an airtight or watertight seal. b. Plastic clips, which offer some sealing capability but are prone to slipping and do not create a reliable barrier against air and moisture. c. Roll-top bags used in the camping industry, which are effective but built into the bag itself and not transferable to other bags.

[0006] These methods have limitations that the current invention seeks to overcome by seeking to provide a reusable, adaptable, and efficient sealing apparatus that can be applied to many kinds of flexible bag.

[0007] A versatile, reusable sealing apparatus that can be applied to many kinds of flexible bag, would provide the advantages of preserving the original packaging’s benefits, such as nutritional information, expiration dates, weight, and product branding.

[0008] The present technology seeks to ameliorate one or more of the abovementioned disadvantages and seeks to provide one or more of the abovementioned advantages. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It is to be understood that throughout this description and the claims that follow, the X-axis is the length or longitudinal axis of a batten or elongate member, the Y-axis is the width of the elongate member and the Z-axis is the thickness of the elongate member.

[0010] Broadly, the present invention provides a retrofittable, removable, and reusable sealing device for a flexible bag package.

[0011] In one embodiment the device includes a flat flexible member and securing fasteners on each end that create a sealing mechanism when flexed and rolled.

[0012] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a retrofittable sealing device for an open flexible bag, the device including: an elongate member including: a generally rigid midsection configured to abut and engage against the open bag to roll down or fold it down while keeping the open ends straight and substantially sealed against one another; flexible end portions; and fasteners disposed at each end to fasten the flexible ends together.

[0013] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a retrofittable sealing device for an open flexible bag, having spaced apart rim ends to form an opening, the device including: a generally springy or bendy elongate member configured to abut against the rim ends of the open bag and then roll them down or fold them down whilekeeping the ends straight and substantially sealed against one another; and fasteners disposed at each end of the elongate member to fasten the ends of the elongate member together to close the bag.

[0014] In one embodiment the fasteners include a catch at one end and a hook at the other for engaging the catch.

[0015] In one embodiment the fasteners include a press stud.

[0016] In one embodiment the fasteners include a snap fitting member.

[0017] In one embodiment the fasteners include a release.

[0018] In one embodiment the fasteners include a strap.

[0019] In one embodiment the fasteners include a hook and loop pad or other fastening arrangement.

[0020] In one embodiment the catch includes a cooperating radiused internal edge for facilitating hinging.

[0021] In one embodiment the hook is a push fit onto the catch for friction locking between opposed faces of the hook.

[0022] In one embodiment the elongate member is a batten.

[0023] In one embodiment the elongate member includes a bendy portion and rigid portions on either side thereof, to provide a type of hinge.

[0024] In one embodiment the elongate member is biased to a straight configuration by being springy along its length.

[0025] In one embodiment the elongate member has springy portions spaced along its length to provide longitudinally-spaced sprung hinge regions.

[0026] In one embodiment the elongate member is moulded from different materials along its length.

[0027] In one embodiment the elongate member is concaved across the width at the spaced apart springy portions to provide the spring.

[0028] In one embodiment there is provided a mount for mounting the elongate member on the bag ends.

[0029] In one embodiment the clip includes a resilient jaw mounted on a side edge of the elongate member.

[0030] In one embodiment the resilient jaw includes a lead in or flare to ease the slipping of the jaw over the bag ends.

[0031] In one embodiment the jaw extends to the other side edge of the elongate member.

[0032] In one embodiment a distal end of the jaw substantially closes against a wall of the elongate member to facilitate keeping the elongate member on the open ends of the bag.

[0033] In one embodiment the resilient jaw includes a bight on a proximal end to provide a catch area and increased spring.

[0034] In an embodiment the generally rigid midsection is of a flat cross section.

[0035] In an embodiment the generally rigid midsection is round, square, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, pentagonal, or suitable cross section.

[0036] In an embodiment the midsection includes a slight concave in section to facilitate rigidity.

[0037] In an embodiment the midsection includes a slight bulge on one side in section to facilitate rigidity.

[0038] The concavity may be a slight recess on one wall.

[0039] The concavity may be a slight dish across a whole of a rectangular cross section.

[0040] The convexity may be a bulge on both sides.

[0041] In an embodiment the midsection is about 1mm, 2mm or 3mm thick or somewhere in between.

[0042] In an embodiment the midsection is batten-like in section to facilitate sealing by folding the open bag ends, but also to facilitate storing efficiently, flat.

[0043] In an embodiment the flexible ends are thinner in section than the midsection.

[0044] In an embodiment the flexible ends are also rectangular in section.

[0045] In an embodiment the flexible ends are about 0.5 to 1mm in section.

[0046] In an embodiment the flexible ends taper down to facilitate flexing.

[0047] In an embodiment the flexble ends are resilient.

[0048] In an embodiment the midsection or flexible ends include a concavity or a dishing or a convexity or bulge to facilitate strength when laying flat to keep a straight and flat form, but also to facilitate flexibility when bent.

[0049] In an embodiment there is a hinge zone at the ends of the midsection to pivotally connect the flexible ends to the midsection.

[0050] In an embodiment the flexible ends and midsection are integral with one another and that is to say, formed of the same material.

[0051] In an embodiment there is a hinge provided at the ends of the midsection but the hinge zone may be a gradual thinning of section. The gradual thinning may occur over a few millimetres.

[0052] In an embodiment the midsection is 100mm long.

[0053] In an embodiment the midsection is 50mm, 100mm, 125mm, 150mm, 200mm, 250mm, 300mm or thereabouts.

[0054] In an embodiment the flexible ends are 100mm long each.

[0055] In an embodiment the flexible ends are 50mm, 100mm, 125mm, 150mm, 200mm, 250mm, 300mm long or thereabouts.

[0056] In an embodiment the flexible ends are 5mm, 10mm, 12.5mm, 15.0mm, 20mm, 30mm wide or thereabouts In an embodiment the fasteners are snap in clips.

[0057] In an embodiment the fasteners are press studs, Velcro, buttons, buckles, or magnets, embedded in the batten, or any suitable fasteners.

[0058] The member may feature a slightly concave cross-section along its length, which serves as a flexible hinge allowing for easy fastening of the two ends of the flexible bar, and allowing for a slight growth in the Y-axis, enhancing the seal by tightening the bar against the surrounding rolled or folded material when bent, while also providing dimensional support for straightening out the device afteruse, overcoming material ‘creep’ that may be induced while the apparatus remains in a curved state when in use for extended periods.

[0001] The elongate member may have a stiff midsection and flexible regions along the outer ends to aid in rolling the flexible bag or material around its outer surface. The advantage of having the midsection being rigid becomes clear now: the spaced apart walls of the bag are held together against a straight surface and this promotes sealing, rather than bunching up, in which case there may be more opportunities for air and vermin to enter or escape through the folds or bunches.

[0059] The stiff midsection may have a square cross-section with varying thickness along its length, providing variable flexibility to areas where flexibility is desired.

[0060] In an embodiment there is provided a sealing apparatus for resealing flexible bags comprising a batten having a nominally rigid midsection and flexible end sections, each of which that may feature a rectangular, oval, or slightly concave cross-section along its length, and a fastening mechanism at each end, wherein the bar is sufficiently stiff along the X and Y axes to provide support for rolling a bag and flexible enough along the Z axis to allow the buckles to be folded toward one another to secure the rolled portion, thereby forming a substantially hermetic seal.

[0061] In an embodiment the bar includes regions of varying thickness and stiffness along its length to facilitate rolling and sealing, with stiffer sections in the middle and more flexible regions at the ends.

[0062] In an embodiment the bar includes a slightly concave cross-section that serves as a flexible hinge, allowing the strap to straighten after use and expand slightly on the Y-axis when flexed into a loop along the Z-axis, enhancing the seal. In an embodiment the bar includes perforations or varying material compositions and dimensions, or a combination of perforations, materials, and geometry to achieve desired flexibility and stiffness in target regions.

[0064] In an embodiment the fastening mechanisms could be side-release buckles, magnetic buckles, snap-fit buckles, hook and loop or Velcro™,snapback closures, ratchets, push buttons, press studs, or other fastening mechanisms.

[0065] In an embodiment the materials include shape memory materials to ensure the apparatus maintains its shape and effectiveness over time.

[0066] In an embodiment there are provided embossed or debossed pictorial instructions on the bar to guide the user in folding and rolling the bag.

[0067] In an embodiment there are provided embedded magnets along the bar to enhance clamping force to the flexible bag, and prevent slippage during rolling.

[0068] In an embodiment the cross-sectional shape employs a concave shape to aid in the mechanical stiffening / straightening of the apparatus during flat storage while maintaining flexibility once bent during active use.

[0069] In an embodiment the device is dishwasher safe for ease of cleaning and reuse.

[0070] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a retrofittable sealing device for an open flexible bag, the device including: a unitary elongate batten including: a generally rigid midsection configured to abut and engage against the open bag to roll down or fold it down while keeping the open ends straight and substantially sealed against one another; flexible end portions integral with the midsection, wherein the flexible end portions are thinner in section than the midsection; and fasteners disposed at each end to fasten the flexible ends together.

[0071] In an embodiment the midsection and / or flexible ends include a slight concave in section to facilitate rigidity.

[0072] In an embodiment the midsection is about 2 or 3mm thick.

[0073] In an embodiment the flexible ends are about 1mm in section.

[0074] In an embodiment the height of the flexible ends tapers down to facilitate flexing.

[0075] In an embodiment the flexible ends are resilient.

[0076] In an embodiment the midsection is 50mm, or 100mm, or 125mm, or 150mm, or 200mm, or 250mm, or 300mm.

[0077] The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the flexible ends are 50mm, or 100mm, or 125mm, or 150mm, or 200mm, or 250mm, or 300mm or thereabouts.

[0078] In an embodiment the fasteners are snap in clips.

[0079] In an embodiment the fasteners are press studs, Velcro, buttons, buckles, or suitable fasteners.

[0080] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided a retrofittable sealing device for an open flexible bag, the bag having spaced apart rim portions to form an opening, the device including: a generally springy or bendy batten member configured to abut against the rim portions of the open bag and then roll them down or fold them down while keeping the rim portions straight and substantially sealed against one another; and a hook and catch fastener disposed at respective ends of the batten member to fasten the ends of the elongate member together to close the bag, wherein the fastener includes a snap arrangement comprising a boss on the hook and a cooperating socket on the catch.

[0081] In an embodiment the catch includes an aperture at the end of the batten to receive the hook.

[0082] In an embodiment the socket is in the form of a detent adjacent the edge of the aperture.

[0083] In an embodiment the hook is a fixed arrangement extending from the end of the batten and includes a return to form a bight and the boss is disposed on an end of the return to form a throat, so as to cooperate with an edge of the aperture.

[0084] In an embodiment the catch includes a radiused internal edge to cooperate with the hook.

[0085] In an embodiment the batten member includes a rigid intermediate portion and bendy portions at either end thereof.

[0086] In an embodiment the batten member is moulded from different materials along its length.

[0087] In an embodiment the elongate member is concaved across the width at the spaced apart springy portions to provide the spring.

[0088] In an embodiment the batten includes a grip mounted thereon for increased grip on the bag rim.

[0089] In an embodiment the grip includes a plurality of spaced apart grooves or ribs or ridges extending substantially along its length to provide grip on the bag rim.

[0090] In an embodiment the grip includes a clip for mounting the elongate member on the bag ends.

[0091] In an embodiment the clip includes a resilient jaw mounted on a side edge of the batten member.

[0092] In an embodiment the socket is arcuate when viewed from above.

[0093] In an embodiment the boss is arcuate to cooperate with the socket.

[0094] In an embodiment there are two bosses, one on each side of the hook.

[0095] In an embodiment there are two sockets, one on each side of the batten adjacent the edge of the aperture. ADVANTAGES

[0096] Embodiments of the technology allow many kinds of opened flexible bag to be transformed into a substantially waterproof and airtight container, significantly reducing kitchen waste and the need for additional storage containers.

[0097] Embodiments of the invention have the advantages of being adaptable to different bag sizes, and also being readily deployed. Embodiments of the technology provide a versatility which allows it to be used with various pack sizes and types, enhancing user convenience and environmental sustainability by minimising the reliance on single-use plastics and disposable sealing methods, and extending the expiration of the pack’s contents.

[0098] Embodiments of the invention can adapt to many sizes or types of flexible bag, which is a departure from the market’s known offerings of size-specific or purpose-built sealing devices.

[0099] Unlike static solutions, embodiments of the invention can be stored independently of bags and deployed on demand, adding significant convenience and utility for the user.

[0100] Embodiments of the invention include features such as for example the cross-sectional shape and the flexible hinge, which enhance the sealing capability, and is useful for maintaining freshness, protection from vermin, waterproofing, and protection from air or gas ingress.

[0101] Embodiments of the invention provide a reusable solution that can reduce the need for single-use sealing bags or containers, and extend the life of existing single-use packaging. In that sense, embodiments of the invention contribute positively to environmental sustainability efforts.

[0102] Embodiments of the invention provide an ergonomic fastener design, which in one embodiment can be operated with one hand and features a secure locking mechanism, which is an improvement over less secure clips or ties that are common in the kitchen.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0103] The invention will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description of an embodiment in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0104] FIG.1 is an isometric view of the flat flexible bar device in a deployed configuration, interengaged with an opening of a bag to seal it;

[0105] FIG.2 is another isometric view of the flat flexible bar device in the deployed configuration, interengaged with an opening of the bag to seal it;

[0106] FIG.3 is a side elevation view of the device in the deployed configuration;

[0107] FIG.4 is an isometric detail view of a circled portion in Figure 1.

[0108] FIG.5 is an isometric view of the device in a standby configuration.

[0109] FIG.6 is another isometric view of the device in the standby configuration;

[0110] FIG.7 is a plan view of the device in the standby configuration, together with a detail view D of a circled portion to more clearly show the difference in cross section to provide a hinge zone; and

[0111] FIG.8 is a front elevation view of the device in the standby configuration.

[0112] FIG.9 is an isometric view of one embodiment of the device whereby the cross-sectional view is consistent across its length

[0113] FIG.10 is an isometric view of one embodiment whereby the flexible ends taper down to facilitate flexing.

[0114] FIG.11 is an isometric view of one embodiment featuring a stiff midsection and thinner flexible regions along the outer ends.

[0115] FIG.12 is an isometric view of one embodiment with the addition of a flexible hinge at the ends of the midsection to allow independent movement of the fasteners, to increase flexibility and aid in connecting the ends to one another

[0116] FIG.13 is an isometric view of one embodiment whereby the device employs a concave shape to aid in the mechanical stiffening / straightening of the apparatus during flat storage while maintaining flexibility once bent during active use.

[0117] FIG.14 is a detail view of the concave cross section of the device when deployed, illustrating the concavity along the Y-axis.

[0118] FIG 15 is an isometric view of another embodiment in which the elongate member is a springy or bendy batten;

[0119] FIG 16 is another isometric view of the batten of Fig.15;

[0120] FIG 17 is still another isometric view of the batten of Fig.15;

[0121] FIG.18 is a plan detail view of a catch and hook portion of the batten of Fig.15 (shown in a closed configuration in Fig.19);

[0122] FIG.19 is a plan view of the embodiment of Fig.15 shown deployed on a flexible bag and in a closed configuration;

[0123] FIG.20 is an isometric view of the embodiment of Fig.15 shown deployed on a flexible bag and in a closed configuration;

[0124] FIG.21 is an isometric view of yet another embodiment of sealing device having a batten and a bag mount in the form of a clip, the embodiment shown in a standby or stowed configuration;

[0125] FIG.22 and 23 are other isometric views of the device shown in Fig.21;

[0126] FIG.24 is a cross section view through the clip and batten of Fig.21;

[0127] FIG.25 is an isometric view of the embodiment shown in Fig.21 in a standby configuration and mounted on a flexible bag;

[0128] FIG.26 is a different isometric view of the embodiment shown in Fig.21 in the standby configuration;

[0129] Figure 27 is an isometric view of a front side of another embodiment shown in a standby configuration;

[0130] Figure 28 is an isometric view of a rear side of the embodiment shown in Figure 27;

[0131] Figure 29 is a rear elevation view of the embodiment of Figure 27 and 28;

[0132] Figure 30 is a front elevation view of the embodiment of Figure 27 and 28;

[0133] Figure 31 is a plan detail view of the embodiment of Figure 27 and 28 shown in the deployed configuration showing the fastener snapped in place;

[0134] Figure 32 is a plan section and detail views of the hook of the embodiment of Figures 27 and 28;

[0135] Figure 33 is a plan section and detail view of the catch of the embodiment shown in Figures 27 and 28, showing the boss on both sides of the catch. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT CONSTRUCTION

[0136] Referring to the drawings there is provided a retrofittable, removable, and reusable sealing device for a flexible bag package. The device is generally indicated at 10.

[0137] The sealing device 10 includes a batten-like member 20, with a rigid midsection 30 and flexible ends 40 connected to the midsection 30 by hinge zones 25, and securing fasteners 60 on each end, the device providing a locked, sealing device when flexed and rolled.

[0138] In the drawings there is shown an elongate member 20 including: a generally rigid midsection 30 configured to abut and engage against the open bag to roll down or fold it down while keeping the open ends straight and substantially sealed against one another; flexible end portions 40 and fasteners 60 disposed at each end to fasten the flexible ends 40 together.

[0139] The midsection is about 2 or 3mm thick and the flexible ends 40 are thinner in section than the midsection 30, about 1mm.

[0140] The flexible ends.40 are also rectangular in section; in fact the batten is an integrated body all made of one material.

[0141] The midsection 30 is about 100mm long but may be 50mm, 100mm, 125mm, 150mm, 200mm, 250mm, 300mm or thereabouts. Equally, the flexible ends 40 are 100mm long each but may be 50mm, 100mm, 125mm, 150mm, 200mm, 250mm, 300mm or thereabouts.

[0142] The fasteners are snap in clips 60 but they may be press studs, Velcro, buttons, buckles, hooks, catches, or other suitable fasteners.

[0143] The invention comprises a member 20 that may be made from food-grade durable material with a fastener 60 attached to each end. The batten 20 provides a rigid surface against which a bag can be rolled to create a seal. The batten 20may feature a slightly concave cross-section along its length, which serves as a flexible hinge and provides dimensional support enabling the apparatus to straighten after use, and enhances the seal by expanding slightly on the Y-axis when the member is deformed along its axis. Alternatively, the device may have a varying stiffness achieved by different thicknesses, cross-sectional shapes, or materials along the flexible member’s length to encourage flexibility in the desired areas. This could include the use of perforations, varying material sections, or different material compositions to provide the requisite flexibility and or stiffness where required.

[0144] The batten 20 is designed to be stiff enough to provide the necessary support for rolling but flexible enough to allow the buckles at each end to bend towards each other, forming a secure seal. The variation in cross-section along the Y-axis and variations in thickness and material composition ensure an even tighter seal by forcing the bag material to compress more tightly when the device is deformed along its axis. IN OPERATION

[0145] The user places the rigid midsection 30 flat against the open end of a bag 5. The advantage of having the midsection being rigid becomes clear now: the spaced apart walls of the bag 5 are held together against a flat surface and this promotes sealing, rather than bunching up, in which case there may be more opportunities for air and vermin to enter or escape through the folds or bunches.

[0146] The user then folds the bag or pack over the rigid midsection member, and rolls it down 2-6 times to compress the opening of the bag 5. The flexible ends 50 are then drawn together, easily, because they are thinner in section and they bend at the hinge zone 25. A sealed, rolled bag top is produced, shown in Figs 1 and 2.

[0147] The rolled bag top is then secured in the sealed position by fastening the ends 50 of the sealing device 10 together, forming a loop that creates asubstantially hermetic seal preventing air and moisture transfer to or from the opening of the bag or packaging. VARIATIONS AND EMBODIMENTS

[0148] The elongate member 20 may include variations in length and width to accommodate different bag sizes. For instance, shorter lengths may be used for small packs, while longer versions can seal larger packs.

[0149] Additional embodiments may feature a magnetic closure system for ease of attachment to the target bag, different fastener designs to cater to user preferences, or materials suited for specific storage conditions, such as high- humidity environments.

[0150] The flexible member may incorporate embedded magnets along the edges to enhance the clamping force and prevent slippage during the rolling process. This magnetic feature enhances ease-of-use when rolling the top of the bag around the device, particularly useful for heavier or bulkier packs.

[0151] The device may also feature embossed or debossed instructions on its surface to guide the user in evenly folding and rolling the pack. These instructions can help users achieve a substantially watertight and airtight seal, enhancing the device’s usability.

[0152] The device can include various fastening mechanisms for securing the ends of the bar. These can include side-release buckles, magnetic buckles, snap-fit buckles, Velcro, snapback closures, ratchets, and other suitable fastening mechanisms.

[0153] The device as shown in Figures 15 to 20 can be a generally springy or bendy elongate member 120 configured to abut against the rim ends 104 of the open bag 105 and then roll them down or fold them down while keeping the ends straight and substantially sealed against one another; and fasteners 160 disposed at each end of the elongate member to fasten ends 122 of the elongate member 120 together to close the bag 105.

[0154] The ends 122 taper up for strength to the hook 162 and catch 164 for strength.

[0155] There may be another embodiment, shown in Figures 21 onwards to Fig 26, which includes a grip in the form of a mounting clip 280 for mounting to the top edge of the bag 105. The clip includes a lead in or a flare 284for leading the bag edge 104 into a clip bight 285. The distal region of the clip 280 abuts the wall of the batten 220 for grip and retention of the bag end 104.

[0156] Figures 27 to 33 show a different embodiment which is a batten 220 of generally the same length. It is springy and includes a grip region 295 for gripping the edge of the rim of the bag. The grip 295 is a plurality of ribs or ridges 296 along the batten 220.

[0157] The fastener 260 includes an aperture 261 and a hook 262. The hook 262 has a stem extending from a wall of the rear face 222 and a flat return 264. The flat return 264 is to minimise bulk when the batten 220 is in the deployed position, wherein it may sit flat against the bag.

[0158] The fastener 260 includes a boss 290. There is one on each face – the front and rear, and each one is disposed adjacent an edge of the aperture 261 for ease of engagement by the hook 262. The bosses 290 are arcuate.

[0159] The hook 262 includes two sockets 289 to engage with the bosses 290.

[0160] The sockets 289 are also arcuate to facilitate good snap engagement with the bosses 290. MATERIALS

[0161] Embodiments of the elongate member 20 may be made from durable food-grade materials that are dishwasher safe, ensuring the product can be reused extensively and cleaned easily. The specific materials considered include: a. Silicone: Chosen for its flexibility, durability, and food safety. It is resistant to high temperatures, making it dishwasher safe.b. Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPE): Selected for their balance of flexibility and durability. They offer good resistance to environmental factors and can be moulded into complex shapes. c. FDA-approved plastics: Used for their safety in food-related applications and their structural integrity. d. Polyester Elastomers: Ideal candidates with medium to low stiffness, such as Dupont Hytrel (grade 5 to 9) or LG Keyflex, which can be over- moulded with rubber or silicone for better bag interface, aesthetics, and usability. e. Thin Flexible Spring Steel: Can be used with or without a plastic, silicone, or rubber over-mould to provide the necessary stiffness and flexibility. f. Shape Memory Polymers: Explored for their ability to return to the original shape after deformation, ensuring long-term sealing effectiveness. g. Thermoplastic Urethanes (TPU): h. Compostable polymers i. Nylons j. Paper or recycled materials for short-term use. k. Polyolefins - polypropylene and polyethylene

[0162] The combination of geometry and materials should maintain flexibility in bending normal to the longitudinal axis of the elongate member, all the while, keeping appropriate stiffness planar to the length and breadth, and low-cost production while exhibiting minimal material creep.

[0163] The use of shape memory materials could also be explored to enhance the device’s functionality. These materials can return to their original shape after being deformed, ensuring that the device maintains its sealing effectiveness over time.FASTENERS 60

[0164] The Fasteners 60 are crafted to provide ease of fastening and unfastening with one hand, which is an ergonomic advantage for users. Additionally, the fasteners 60 may include a locking feature to prevent accidental release once the bag is sealed.

[0165] Various fastening designs can be incorporated, such as side-release buckles, push buttons, magnetic fasteners, press-studs, hook-and loop or Velcro™, snapback closures, ratchets, and other industry-standard fastening mechanisms, each offering different levels of security and ease of use. The choice of fastener can be tailored to the specific needs of the user or the application environment. EXAMPLES OF USE

[0166] The following examples illustrate practical applications of the adjustable sealing apparatus for various scenarios. These examples are provided to demonstrate the versatility, efficiency, and environmental benefits of the invention, and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. a. Example 1: i. Scenario: Sealing a half-used bag of potato chips. ii. Application: Place the flat bar across the open end of the bag, fold the bag over the bar, and roll it down. Secure the rolled portion by drawing the ends together and securing with the fastening mechanism. This provides an airtight seal that keeps the contents fresh. iii. Benefit: Prevents the contents from becoming stale, reduces waste by eliminating the need to transfer to another container.b. Example 2: iv. Scenario: Storing bulk dry goods like rice or pasta. v. Application: Use a longer version of the flexible bar to seal large bags. vi. Benefit: Maintains the freshness of dry goods, prevents contamination, and retains the original packaging’s information. It allows the user to visually identify inventory levels, due to the original packaging net weight information being maintained. c. Example 3: vii. Scenario: Camping and outdoor use for keeping food items waterproof. viii. Application: Use the device to seal food bags, ensuring they remain waterproof and airtight. ix. Benefit: Protects food from moisture and vermin, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The loop created by the device creates a carry handle that can be used to transport the contents easily. d. Example 4: x. Scenario: Using the device in a high-humidity environment. xi. Application: The device’s materials and design are suited for sealing bags in environments with high humidity, such as refrigerators or humid climates. xii. Benefit: Prevents moisture ingress, keeping the contents dry and insulated from humidity and gasses, extending their shelf life. e. Example 5: xiii. Scenario: Industrial application for sealing a bag of concrete. xiv. Application: A larger-scale version of the apparatus maintaining the ratio of X / Y / Z dimensions can seal bags of concrete to prevent moisture ingress, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity andusability of the concrete mix. The varying thickness and stiffness of the bar ensure it can handle the heavy and abrasive nature of concrete bags. The loop creates a robust handle for carrying the contents. xv. Benefit: Prevents the concrete from hardening prematurely, ensuring it remains usable for longer periods and reducing waste. The loop created by the device creates a carry handle that can be used to transport the contents easily. f. Example 6: xvi. Scenario: Catering and fast food commercial kitchen application for sealing food bags. xvii. Application: In a commercial kitchen, fast-food restaurant or catering service, the device can seal bags of food between shifts, ensuring freshness and food safety. The fast and secure sealing mechanism saves time and effort compared to traditional containers. The use of the original packaging for safe storage also retains the original expiration date, contents description and nutritional information of the original package, enhancing consumer safety. xviii. Benefit: Enhances food safety by providing a guaranteed airtight and watertight seal when used correctly, reducing contamination risks, and maintaining food quality. It also saves time and labour, increasing efficiency in fast-paced environments.

Claims

The claims defining the present invention are as set out below.

1. A retrofittable sealing device for an open flexible bag, the device including: a unitary elongate batten including: a generally rigid midsection configured to abut and engage against the open bag to roll down or fold it down while keeping the open ends straight and substantially sealed against one another; flexible end portions integral with the midsection, wherein the flexible end portions are thinner in section than the midsection; and fasteners disposed at each end to fasten the flexible ends together.

2. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the midsection and / or flexible ends include a slight concave in section to facilitate rigidity.

3. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the midsection is about 2 or 3mm thick.

4. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the flexible ends are about 1mm in section.

5. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the height of the flexible ends tapers down to facilitate flexing.

6. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the flexible ends are resilient.

7. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the midsection is 50mm, or 100mm, or 125mm, or 150mm, or 200mm, or 250mm, or 300mm.

8. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the flexible ends are 50mm, or 100mm, or 125mm, or 150mm, or 200mm, or 250mm, or 300mm or thereabouts.

9. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the fasteners are snap in clips.

10. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of the previous claims wherein the fasteners are press studs, Velcro, buttons, buckles, or suitable fasteners.

11. A retrofittable sealing device for an open flexible bag, the bag having spaced apart rim portions to form an opening, the device including: a generally springy or bendy batten member configured to abut against the rim portions of the open bag and then roll them down or fold them down while keeping the rim portions straight and substantially sealed against one another; and a hook and catch fastener disposed at respective ends of the batten member to fasten the ends of the elongate member together to close the bag, wherein the fastener includes a snap arrangement comprising a boss on the hook and a cooperating socket on the catch.

12. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with claim 11 wherein the catch includes an aperture at the end of the batten to receive the hook.

13. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with claim 11 or 12 wherein the socket is in the form of a detent adjacent the edge of the aperture.

14. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with claim 11 or 12 or 13 wherein the hook is a fixed arrangement extending from the end of the batten and includes a return to form a bight and the boss is disposed on an end of the return to form a throat, so as to cooperate with an edge of the aperture.

15. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of claims 11 to 14 wherein the catch includes a radiused internal edge to cooperate with the hook.

16. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of claims 11 to 15 wherein the batten member includes a rigid intermediate portion and bendy portions at either end thereof.

17. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of claims 11 to 16 wherein the batten member is moulded from different materials along its length.

18. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of claims 11 to 17 wherein the elongate member is concaved across the width at the spaced apart springy portions to provide the spring.

19. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 17 wherein the batten includes a grip mounted thereon for increased grip on the bag rim.

20. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with claim 19 wherein the grip includes a plurality of spaced apart grooves, or ribs or ridges extending substantially along its length to provide grip on the bag rim.

21. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with claim 19 wherein the grip includes a clip for mounting the elongate member on the bag ends.

22. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with claim 21 wherein the clip includes a resilient jaw mounted on a side edge of the batten member.

23. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of claims 11 to 22 wherein the socket is arcuate when viewed from above.

24. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of claims 11 to 23 wherein the boss is arcuate to cooperate with the socket.

25. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of claims 11 to 24 wherein there are two bosses, one on each side of the hook.

26. The retrofittable sealing device in accordance with any one of claims 11 to 17 wherein there are two sockets, one on each side of the batten adjacent the edge of the aperture.

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