Container containing a flexible bag and provided with compartmentalization means

Abstract

Container consisting of a packaging containing a bag provided with a perimeter (13) to separate it into two parts (14, 15) A compartmentalization zone is provided in which the bag can be folded on itself by separating the two parts and forming a first compartment. The container is further provided with compartmentalization means (241) which are situated on the outside of the bag and can be moved between (i) an active position, in which they support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131) and prevent it from coming out of this folded state, and (ii) an inactive position, in which they do not support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state such that said compartmentalization zone can come into an unfolded of the folded state and enter a non-folded state in which the first part and the second part of the bag are in contact.

Description

DescriptionTitle: Container containing a flexible bag and provided with compartmentalization meansTechnical field

[0001] The invention relates to a container consisting of• a flexible bag provided with o an inner face, o a filling opening, o a tubing for introducing a liquid into the bag and / or extracting a solution from the bag, and o at least a first perimeter separating the flexible bag into a first part and a second part, the filling opening being located outside of the first part, and• an outer packaging in which the bag can be placed and which is open on one side to allow access to the filling opening and means for accessing the tubing.The invention is particularly suitable for containers of solid concentrates for dialysis.The invention also relates to a method for compartmentalizing a bag of a container according to the invention.Prior art

[0002] To perform dialyses, it is necessary to use a solution containing various components in very precise quantities. In order to avoid having to weigh the various components in the dialysis centre, it is advantageous for several of these components to be supplied in the form of a ready -to-use mixture. As a result, it is commonplace to use solid concentrates which are contained in flexible bags and dissolved shortly before the dialysis by repeated introduction of a dissolving liquid into the bag until the concentrate has completely dissolved.

[0003] However, some of the components of the dialysis solution have a tendency to react with one another, both in solution and in the solid state, and this reduces the stability of the mixture.

[0004] To overcome this problem, it has been suggested to store the problematic components separately and to add them to the solution individually. This approach therefore requires two or more different containers. Reference could be made, for example, to the application WO 2018 / 091585 Al, which makes use of a container of the type described in the preamble for a ready -to-use mixture of electrolytes and a separate source for the acid.

[0005] Another solution consists in compartmentalizing the bag by means of welds in order to separate the ingredients into various compartments. These welds are designed to give way under the effect of the pressure as the bag is being filled with the dissolving liquid. This makes it possible to have, in a single container, all the components necessary to produce the dialysis solution while still keeping them separate until they are dissolved. Reference could be made, for example, to the application WO 2011 / 073274 Al. However, producing welds in already partially filled bags poses difficulties, in particular owing to the presence of dust.

[0006] The aim of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks.Summary of the invention

[0007] This aim is achieved by a container according to the preamble, wherein• the first perimeter constitutes a compartmentalization zone in which the bag can be folded on itself at said first perimeter to bring the compartmentalization zone into a folded state which separates the first part from the second part, such that a first compartment is formed at the first part, and wherein• the container is provided with o compartmentalization means which are situated on the outside of the bag and can be moved between■ an active position, in which they support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state and prevent it from coming out of this folded state, and■ an inactive position, in which they do not support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state such that said compartmentalization zone can come out of the folded state and enter a non-folded state in which the first part and the second part of the bag are in contact.

[0008] In the non-folded state of the compartmentalization zone, the first part does not have any opening other than the one that is formed by the first perimeter. This first part may, if appropriate, be provided with access means such as the tubing, but they are normally closed and are opened only when the dissolving takes place. Putting the compartmentalization zone into the folded state therefore makes it possible to produce a separate compartment at the first part.With the invention, it is possible to produce a container of which the bag is compartmentalized and of which the compartmentalization can be eliminated by moving the compartmentalization means from the active position to the inactive position. It is provided to fill the second part of the bag with a second product and then to seal the filling opening. As a result, when the filling opening has been sealed and the compartmentalization means are in the active position, the bag is divided into a first compartment and a second compartment, thetwo compartments being separated from one another by the compartmentalization zone in the folded state, supported by the compartmentalization means. The folding of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state can be done manually or using a folding device. In some embodiments, the compartmentalization means are supported by the product which is contained in the first container and against which the means rest. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the compartmentalization means are designed to transition from the active position to the inactive position automatically during the dissolving process, which is to say without manual intervention. This could be the case in particular for compartmentalization means that are supported by the product contained in the first compartment and that endure the disappearance of this support following removal, owing to successive dissolving processes, of the product contained in the first compartment.

[0009] It is preferable for the tubing to be situated in the first part of the bag. It would, however, be possible for it to be in the second part with the filling opening. If the bag is to be divided into more than two compartments, it can have at least one third part, generally separated from the first part by the second part, and provided with the filling opening. The tubing can then be situated as required in one of the three parts.It is preferable that, in the ready -to-fill state, the first part of the bag is situated under the second part, and if appropriate the third part is situated on the second part. This solution makes it possible in particular for the compartmentalization means to be supported by the product contained in the compartment underneath.

[0010] In the folded state of the compartmentalization zone, most, if not all, of the points on the inner face of the compartmentalization zone are adjacent to another, facing point of said compartmentalization zone, without continuity of material between the two facing points. By contrast to the containers of the prior art, and in particular that in WO 2011 / 073274 Al, the two segments of the bag that are facing each other at the compartmentalization zone in the folded state are not connected by a weld or an adhesive bond, but are simply brought together in a very close contact. Since the invention is essentially intended for solid products, it is not necessary for the separation between the first compartment and the second part of the bag to be completely leaktight. If the bag is suitably folded at the first perimeter such that portions of the compartmentalization zone touch one another, there is virtually no gap in the compartmentalization zone in the folded state. It is possible, for example, to bring two opposite sides of the perimeter towards the centre until they touch one another. By moving the sides closer together, two folds are formed on each side. These folds are flattened such that their inner faces touch one another. There are nogaps through which a product contained in the second part of the bag could enter the first compartment. If the folding is not perfect and there are one or more unintentional small folds, it is not completely ruled out that one or gaps will remain between the sections of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state. These gaps are, however, so narrow and sometimes so tortuous that the product in the second compartment cannot enter the first compartment. However, if a miniscule quantity of the product contained in the second part of the bag manages to enter the first compartment through these gaps, it would only mix with a negligible amount of the first product. In addition, this local mixture practically could not blend with the rest of the product, because it is solid matter. The overall stability of the product would not be brought into question by this negligible quantity of product coming from the other compartment.

[0011] It is preferable for the compartmentalization means to comprise two elongate elements which, in the active position, are placed on either side of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state. The elongate elements are preferably at least as long as the compartmentalization zone in the folded state.

[0012] A simple way of supporting the compartmentalization zone in the folded state consists in designing the compartmentalization means such that, in the active position, they clamp the compartmentalization zone in the folded state.

[0013] In a first embodiment, the compartmentalization means are formed by two cylinders, and the packaging is provided with holding means for holding the cylinders in the active position. It is preferable to design the container such that, in the active position, or at least upon their transition into the compartmentalization state, the two cylinders extend horizontally through the packaging. The packaging may be provided with at least a first pair of orifices for introducing and / or extracting the cylinders. The first pair of orifices can act as the holding means for holding a first end of the cylinders. The packaging may be provided with a second pair of orifices for serving as holding means for holding a second end of the cylinders. To make them easier to extract and / or make them inactive, it is preferable for the cylinders to project beyond the orifices in the active position.

[0014] In a second embodiment, the container is provided with two compartmentalization flaps each provided with an edge, and which, when they are in the active position, i. clamp the compartmentalization zone in the folded state between their edges, or ii. support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state between the edge of one of the compartmentalization flaps and that face of the other compartmentalization flap opposite to the first part of the bag, or iii. support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state between that face of one of the compartmentalization flaps that is directed towardsthe first part of the bag and that face of the other compartmentalization flap opposite to the first part.At least one of the flaps (variants (ii) and (iii)), or the two flaps (variant (i)), may be sized so as to, in the active position, rest against the product contained in the first compartment, and thus be supported in the active position. The wall of the lower part of the bag is therefore interposed between the product contained in the first container and the lower face of the flap or its edge. As mentioned above, this has the advantage that this support disappears when the product contained in the first compartment is progressively removed with successive dissolving processes. Since the one or more flaps are no longer supported by the product contained in the first compartment, they tilt downwards under the effect of the weight of the product contained in the second compartment and move away from one another while eliminating the support of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state. The compartmentalization means thus automatically transition from the active position to the inactive position, without intervention by personnel.

[0015] In a first variant of the second embodiment, the container is provided with an insert, which is sized so as to be placed in the packaging around the first part of the bag and is provided with the compartmentalization flaps. This insert is inserted in the packaging all around the first part of the bag, and then its compartmentalization flaps are turned down into the active position to support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state.

[0016] In a second and a third embodiment variant, the compartmentalization flaps are placed at that end of the packaging that provides access to the filling opening of the bag. The flaps form at least a part of the means for accessing the filling opening. In particular, they may be situated at the top of the packaging, preferably opposite the means for accessing the tubing.

[0017] In the first and the second variant, the compartmentalization flaps are preferably sized such that, in the active position, they are placed in a same plane and clamp with their edges the compartmentalization zone in the folded state. Support flaps may be provided to support, on the first-compartment side, the compartmentalization flaps in the active position. In this case, the compartmentalization flaps rest against the product of the first compartment with the interposition not only of the wall of the first part of the bag, but also of the support flaps.In an alternative embodiment, the compartmentalization flaps are sized such that, in the active position, they are mutually parallel and partially overlap such that they support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state in the overlap zone. Support flaps may also be provided.

[0018] In the second variant, when the flaps are in the same plane and clamp the compartmentalization zone in the folded state between their edges, or when theflaps are parallel and partially overlap while supporting the compartmentalization zone in the folded state in the overlap zone, it is possible to provide the container with a lid for covering the second part of the bag situated outside the packaging.

[0019] In the third variant, the compartmentalization flaps may be sized such that, in the active position, they are inclined relative to one another, and clamp the compartmentalization zone in the folded state between their edges placed preferably inside the packaging, or between the edge of one of the compartmentalization flaps and that face of the other compartmentalization flap opposite to the first part. In this variant, a V-shaped space is formed above the compartmentalization flaps. This space can serve to accommodate the second part of the bag that forms the second compartment after filling and sealing of the filling opening.

[0020] A simple solution for implementing the invention is to make the packaging from cardboard. The bag could be made from polymer, in particular PE (polyethylene), PA (polyamide), PP (polypropylene) or polyester, either in singlelayer form or in multi-layer form. The packaging may be provided with closing flaps for closing the packaging on the side of the filling opening.

[0021] The invention also relates to a method for compartmentalizing a bag of a container of the invention. According to the invention, the method includes the steps of• placing the bag in the packaging;• pouring a first product into the first part of the bag through the filling opening;• folding the bag on itself at the first perimeter with formation of a compartmentalization zone in the folded state which separates the first part from the second part by forming a first compartment containing the first product; and• placing the compartmentalization means in the active position.

[0022] The method may also provide at least one of the following steps:• after placing the compartmentalization means in the active position, pouring a second product into the second part of the bag through the filling opening;• sealing the filling opening after the second part of the bag has been filled;• placing a lid to cover the second part of the bag that projects beyond the packaging; closing the packaging on the side of the opening that provides access to the filling opening of the bag by turning down the closing flaps.Brief description of the drawings

[0023] The invention is described in more detail below by means of the figures, in which:1stembodiment with compartmentalization by cylinders:[Fig. 1]: shows a 1stembodiment with cylinders;2ndembodiment with compartmentalization by flaps of the packaging:[Fig. 2]: shows a 1stvariant with a cardboard insert having compartmentalization flaps;[Fig. 3]: shows a 2ndvariant with a 2ndcompartment situated outside the main packaging and lid;[Fig. 4]: shows a 3rdvariant with a 2ndcompartment accommodated between compartmentalization flaps and closing flaps;[Fig. 5]: shows a schematic representation of the compartmentalization of the bag by the cylinders, (a) by clamping, (b) by winding;[Fig. 6]: shows a schematic representation of the compartmentalization of the bag by clamping between the edges of the compartmentalization flaps, (a) with an insert, (b) with the second compartment situated outside the packaging and protected by a lid and (c) with clamping in a lowered position;[Fig. 7]: shows a schematic representation of the compartmentalization by clamping between the edge of one flap and the opposite flap, (a) with a very small overlap of the flaps, (b) with a significant overlap of the flaps and (c) without an overlap of the flaps.Detailed description

[0024] The invention relates to a container for solid products, in particular a container of large volume and / or containing a solid concentrate for dialysis solutions. Several embodiments are presented below.

[0025] The container (1) comprises a flexible bag (10) contained in an external packaging (20). In order to better understand the various filling steps, the packaging is partially shown in dashed lines in Figures 1 to 4, although it at least partially covers the other elements. In Figures 1 and 2, the various filling steps are presented without an external packaging (figures at the top) to clearly illustrate the operation of the compartmentalization means, and with the external packaging in dashed lines like in reality (figures at the bottom).

[0026] Compartmentalization means allow to compartmentalize the bag without the separation zone between two adjacent compartments being formed by connecting the material of the bag to itself, which is to say in particular without welding or adhesive bonding. The separation between two adjacent compartments is obtained by bringing the inner face of the bag into close contact with itself.

[0027] The bag (10) is made of a flexible material compatible with the product to be stored and with the dissolving liquid that will be used during the dissolvingprocess. By way of example, the bag may be made from polymer, in particular PE (polyethylene), PA (polyamide), PP (polypropylene) or polyester, either in single-layer form or in multi-layer form.The bag is substantially in the form of a sleeve closed at one end and open at the other end by way of a filling opening (11). It has an inner face and an outer face. The bag is divided into a first part (14) and a second part (15) separated by a first perimeter (13). The cross section of the main portion of the bag may be constant over the entire length of the sleeve, or have one portion that is narrower than the other.The filling opening (11) may have the same cross section as the sleeve, or have a narrower section.A tubing (12) may be provided to introduce the dissolving liquid into the bag and extract the solution obtained. The tubing (12) emerges in the bag preferably at the opposite end from the filling opening (11). It is preferably provided at its free end opposite to the bag with a connector (121) for connecting the container to a dissolving installation, like that described for example in the application WO 2018 / 091585 Al. The tubing (12) may be provided with shut-off means for keeping it closed before it is connected to the dissolving installation.

[0028] The first perimeter forms a compartmentalization zone in which the bag can be folded on itself to bring the compartmentalization zone into a folded state (131) which separates the first part (14) of the bag from the second part (15) of the bag with formation of a first compartment (141). Folded should be understood to mean flat folding, with the formation if required of well-defined folds, as well as crimping or creasing.

[0029] The packaging (20) is preferably a cardboard packaging. It may consist of a belt (21), generally of rectangular or square cross section, and a bottom (22). The packaging is provided with an access opening for accessing the filling opening of the bag. This access opening may be closed after the container, or at least the first compartment (141), has been filled. This opening at least partially forms means for accessing the filling opening.According to the embodiments, the belt may be provided on the side of the opening with a first pair of opposing flaps (24), and possibly with a second pair of opposite flaps (25), alternating with the first flaps (24). According to the embodiments, these flaps also form part of the means for accessing the filling opening of the bag.The bottom (22) in the examples presented here is in the form of a funnel to allow better removal of the solution. A tubing passage (221) is provided for the passage of the tubing (12) of the bag. In this embodiment, the bottom is an added part surrounded by the belt (21).A tubing passage (211) may also be provided in the belt for the exit of that end of the tubing (12) that faces away from the bag and the connector (121), or toallow access thereto. This tubing passage (211) may be produced in the main section of the envelope, as in Figure 2, or be in a recess. These tubing passages (221, 211) form means for accessing the tubing.The packaging may be placed on a pallet to allow it to be handled, in particular a half-Euro-pallet. The dimensions of the bottom (22) and of the belt (21), and also those of the sleeve-shaped portion of the bag, can be adapted to the dimensions of the pallet to allow compact storage of the containers (1).

[0030] In the embodiments presented here, the compartmentalization means comprise two complementary elongate elements (30, 24, 41) that can be moved between an active position and an inactive position. The two elongate elements interact such that, in the active position, most, or even all, of the points on the inner face of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state are adjacent to another point of the compartmentalization zone. Adjacent is understood to mean that the two points are either in direct contact, or so close to one another that only very fine gaps remain between the two compartments in the folded zone of the compartmentalization zone. The gaps are so fine and / or so tortuous that they either cannot allow the product to pass from one compartment to the other, or allow only a minuscule amount of product to pass through, which does not affect the overall stability of the contaminated product.

[0031] The perimeter (13) intended to be clamped by the compartmentalization means may be situated in a plane perpendicular to the direction of extent (D) of the sleeve forming the bag, as is shown schematically in the figures by a dashed line. However, in practice, the perimeter can be moved away from this ideal position depending on the way in which the bag is filled and folded.1stembodiment via cylinders

[0032] In the first embodiment, the compartmentalization means comprise two cylinders (30) placed on either side of the bag (10). In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the cylinders are placed horizontally and extend at least over the entire width of the belt (21). Two pairs of orifices (212) are made in the belt for the passage of the cylinders (30). The orifices of a pair are preferably placed symmetrically in relation to the medial plane of the belt. The orifices serve to hold the cylinders (30) in place during a storage period. A pair of orifices (212) could be replaced by holding means situated in the belt (21) for holding the first end of each cylinder, the other end being held by one of the orifices (212).

[0033] The bag (10) is first of all placed in the packaging (20) by placing its tubing (12) so as to be able to access it from the outside. In the embodiments presented here, the tubing is passed into the tubing passage (221) in the bottom (22) and into the tubing passage (211) in the belt.

[0034] The first product is introduced into the bag through the filling opening (11). It is preferable to provide a device for making the first product in the first part(14) of the bag settle, for example by vibration.

[0035] When the desired quantity of the first product has been poured into the first part (14) of the bag, the bag (12) is folded at a first perimeter (13) forming the compartmentalization zone, by forming, as far as possible, folds that lie flat and where every point or practically every point on the inner face of the compartmentalization zone is in contact with another, facing point of the compartmentalization zone. It is necessary to as far as possible avoid unintentional small folds in which some points of the compartmentalization zone are adjacent to, but not in contact with other points thereof, leaving a space that can contribute to forming a fine gap. The cylinders (30) are then introduced into the cardboard and firmly enclose the compartmentalization zone in the folded state. For this, each cylinder is passed by way of its first end into an orifice (212) of the first pair of orifices, and then is pushed along an edge of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state until the first end comes out of the first orifice (212) of the second pair of orifices or is introduced into its holding means. When the two cylinders are introduced, the first, lower compartment (141) is created. It is preferable for at least one of the ends of the cylinders to project slightly out of the belt to make it easier to remove them when the dissolving process takes place.

[0036] It is then possible to fill the second part (15) of the bag with the second product. Owing to the support of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131) by the two cylinders (30), the second product cannot make the compartmentalization zone unfold and enter the first compartment. When the desired quantity of the second product has been poured into the second part (15) of the bag, the filling opening (11) is sealed with formation of the second compartment (151). The one or more pairs of flaps (24, 25) are turned down and the packaging is closed.

[0037] It is possible to provide multiple sets of orifices (212) placed at different heights to make it possible to have compartments (141, 151) of different volumes. The orifices may be provided in the form of precuts so as not to weaken the belt by way of an excessive number of orifices. It is also possible to place some sets of orifices on the faces corresponding to the first flaps (24) and others on the faces corresponding to the second flaps (25).When the mixture contained in the container is to be dissolved, the tubing (12) is connected to the dissolving installation via its connector (121). The cylinders are taken out. It is advantageous for at least one of their ends to project out of the packaging to make them easier to grip and extract. This avoids the need to open the packaging. Without the cylinders, the compartmentalization zone in the folded state is no longer supported. It can start to unfold solely under the effect of the weight of the product contained in the second compartment (151). The dissolving liquid is introduced into the bag through the tubing (12) andcauses the bag to expand; the bag then unfolds completely such that the compartmentalization zone definitely comes out of its folded state and the second product falls into the lower part (14) of the bag. Some of the mixture dissolves. The solution is removed and the operation is repeated until the mixture contained in the bag has been exhausted.In the embodiment presented here, the compartmentalization zone in the folded state extends in a vertical plane and is supported between the two cylinders (30) which each press against the outer face of the bag (see schematic Figure 5a). In another embodiment variant schematically shown in Figure 5b, the bag is wound over the upper face of the first cylinder and then under the lower face of the second cylinder. The two cylinders are preferably placed in the same horizontal plane. However, it would be possible for this not to be the case, or even that they are placed one on the other. In this variant, it is not necessary for the cylinders to clamp the bag between them: the single S-shaped deflection is enough to ensure the compartmentalization and to cause virtually every point on the inner face of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state to be adjacent to another point of said compartmentalization zone. The presence of unintentional small folds has less drawbacks than in the first variant, since if there are fine gaps, although the product in the upper compartment could descend along the second cylinder, it could not rise back up around the first cylinder to then fall into the lower compartment. The risk of micromixture is practically ruled out in this variant. In this embodiment, it is possible to do away with the orifices and / or the holding means.It is possible to do away with the holding means if the bag is wound around the cylinders, or if it is ensured during the filling of the second product that the product indeed occupies the space between the cylinders and the bag is unfolded to the maximum extent. In this case, the product in the second compartment presses against those faces of the cylinders opposite to the compartmentalization zone and keeps them in the active position.Second embodiment via flaps

[0038] In the second embodiment, the compartmentalization means are formed by two opposite compartmentalization flaps (24, 41). The bag (10) is clamped between the facing edges (241, 411) of the two compartmentalization flaps, as is schematically shown in the three variants in Figure 6, or between the edge (241, 411) of one of the flaps resting against the opposite flap (24, 41), as is schematically shown in the three variants in Figure 7.

[0039] In the three variants in Figure 6, the two compartmentalization flaps rest against the product contained in the first compartment with the wall of the first part of the bag in between.In the first and the second variant in Figure 7, at least one of the flaps (that withthe edge at the lowest position) rests against the product in the first compartment. The second also rests against said product in the first compartment, either indirectly by resting against the first flap, or directly with its portion that does not overlap the other flap. In the third variant in Figure 7, generally only one of the flaps rests against the product.Resting can be done with just the edge of the flap, as for example in the third variants in Figures 6 and 7, or with some or all of that face of the flap that is directed towards the first compartment.

[0040] 1stvariant:Cardboard insert

[0041] In a first embodiment variant shown in Figure 2, it is provided to place an insert (40), preferably made of cardboard, in the belt (21), around the bag (10). This insert consists for example of a skirt (43), the outer dimensions of which substantially correspond to the inner dimensions of the belt (21) of the packaging so as to allow it to be easily inserted without creating unnecessary dead space. In the example presented here, the skirt has a rectangular or square cross section such that it has four faces. This skirt (43) is provided with two compartmentalization flaps (41) disposed on two opposite faces of the skirt. Each compartmentalization flap (41) is provided with an edge (411) on the side opposite the face to which it is attached. Each compartmentalization flap has a length (1) measured between the face of the skirt to which it is attached and its edge (411). In the present example, the length (1) of the flaps (41) is selected such that, when the flaps are placed in the same plane, in this case horizontally, they clamp the compartmentalization zone in the folded state. This length corresponds to the minimum length (Im) with which the device can operate. In practice, the length of the compartmentalization flaps is substantially equal to half the distance separating the two opposite faces of the skirt bearing these compartmentalization flaps, and the edges could possibly compress very slightly when clamping the compartmentalization zone in the folded state. When the insert is placed at the top of the first part (14) of the bag with its compartmentalization flaps (41) placed in the same horizontal plane, at least partially resting against the settled product which keeps them in this horizontal position, the minimum length (Im) is enough to ensure correct support of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state, as is schematically shown in Figure 6a.

[0042] To support this horizontal position of the compartmentalization flaps (41), it is possible to provide support flaps (42) on the other faces of the skirt. These support flaps (42) are provided with a notch (421) which allows them to bypass the end of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131). If necessary, the notch extends up to the corresponding face of the skirt such that the support flap is in fact divided into two sub-flaps.

[0043] When the container is being filled, the bag (10) is placed in the outer packaging(20) as described above. The first product is introduced into the first part (14) of the bag through the filling opening (11). The product is preferably made to settle using suitable means. At the end of the filling process for the first product, the insert (40) is introduced around the bag (10) such that its compartmentalization flaps can be aligned horizontally, preferably by resting against the settled product. The bag (12) is then folded at a first perimeter (13) forming the compartmentalization zone. As far as possible, an attempt should be made to form folds that lie flat where virtually every point on the inner face of the compartmentalization zone is in contact with another, facing point of the compartmentalization zone. In this case, too, the formation of unintentional small folds will be avoided as far as possible. The support flaps (42), where present, are first of all turned down, and then the compartmentalization flaps (41) are turned down in turn, clamping the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131). This forms the first compartment (141). The second part (15) of the bag is in an upper portion of the belt (21), above the insert (40).

[0044] The second product is poured into the second part (15) of the bag, and then the filling opening is sealed. This forms the second compartment (151). The one or more pairs of flaps (24, 25) of the belt of the packaging are turned down and the packaging is closed.

[0045] The advantage of the insert is that it can be used irrespective of the volume of the first compartment. The insert will be at a higher or lower level in the belt of the packaging depending on the volume of the first product. The same packaging therefore allows practically an infinite number of combinations of volumes for the first and the second compartment, the limit being imposed by the total volume of the packaging. This variant allows significant flexibility.

[0046] To solubilize the mixture, the bag is connected to a dissolving solution, and the dissolving liquid is introduced into the bag. The pressure generated by the entry of the liquid causes the support flaps (42) and the compartmentalization flaps (41) to be pushed up. The edges of the compartmentalization flaps no longer support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state, which can unfold. The second product falls into the lower part of the bag. Some of the mixture is dissolved. The solution is removed and the operation is repeated until the mixture has been exhausted. If, against all expectations, the support flaps (42) and compartmentalization flaps (41) are not pushed up under the effect of the pressure of the incoming liquid, they give way under the weight of the second product when the quantity of the second product progressively decreases with the dissolution cycles. In both cases, the compartmentalization zone disappears.

[0047] Second variant:Second outer compartment

[0048] In the second embodiment variant shown in Figure 3, the first compartment isplaced in the belt (21) of the outer packaging, whereas the second compartment (151) is above the belt (21). In this case, the first pair of flaps (24) of the belt (21) acts as compartmentalization flaps. The second pair of flaps (25), where present, acts as support flaps. The support flaps are also provided with a notch (251) which allows them to bypass the end of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131). If necessary, the notch extends up to the corresponding face of the skirt such that the support flap is in fact divided into two sub-flaps. The compartmentalization and support flaps work in the same way as those of the insert (40) of the first variant. The description provided for them therefore applies to this second embodiment variant. In this case, too, the minimum length (Im) of the compartmentalization flaps (24) is selected such that, when they are aligned, in the horizontal position, their edges (241) clamp the compartmentalization zone in the folded state. As in the first variant, in practice a length substantially equal to half the distance separating the two faces of the belt bearing the compartmentalization flaps (24) will be selected.

[0049] To fill the container, the bag is placed in the outer packaging as already indicated and the first product is poured into the first part (14) of the bag. When the desired quantity of the first product is reached, the bag is folded properly at a first perimeter (13) forming the compartmentalization zone, while still avoiding the formation of unintentional small folds. The support flaps (25), where present, are first of all turned down, and then the compartmentalization flaps (24) are turned down with their edges (241) clamping the compartmentalization zone in the folded state and thus form the first compartment (141). The second product is poured into the second part (15) of the bag which projects upwards from the outer packaging (20). When the desired quantity of the second product is reached, the filling opening (11) is sealed with formation of the second compartment (151).It will be understood that in this embodiment variant, the opening in the packaging is closed at the same time as the compartmentalization means (which is to say the compartmentalization flaps) are placed in the active position.

[0050] To protect the second compartment, it may prove useful to place a lid (50), for example made from cardboard, on top. The lid may be composed of a base (51) and a lateral rim (52). The height of the lateral rim is preferably at least equal to the height of the second compartment. The lid preferably has a cross section substantially identical to that of the belt (21) of the packaging such that it can rest against the top of the belt. It is also possible to provide that it is slightly wider so as to make it possible to put it onto the top of the packaging such that the lateral rim (52) of the lid covers the top of the belt (21).

[0051] The advantage of this second variant is the significant volume of the first compartment (141).

[0052] When the mixture is being dissolved, the pressure exerted by the dissolving liquid entering the bag causes the support flaps (25) and compartmentalization flaps (24) to be pushed up. If the lid has not been taken off, it is possible for it to be also pushed up, especially if the height of the lateral rim (52) is less than the length (1) of the compartmentalization and support flaps (24, 25). In this case, too, if the pressure is not enough to cause the flaps to be pushed up to eliminate the compartmentalization zone, the weight of the second product would press to a sufficient extent against the compartmentalization flaps (24), which in turn will press against the support flaps (25) which themselves will no longer be supported by the first product, which will partially have been eliminated by dissolving. The support flaps (25) may be sized such that, taken on their own, which is to say without the support of the first product, they are not sufficient to support the compartmentalization flaps (24) when the latter are subjected to the weight of the second product.

[0053] Third variant:Compartmentalization on the inside of the packaging by the flaps thereof

[0054] In this third variant, the compartmentalization zone in the folded state is clamped with the edges (241) of the compartmentalization flaps of the belt, which are longer than the minimum length (Im) mentioned above. Consequently, the clamping is performed out of the horizontal plane passing through the top of the belt. The clamping could be performed outside the belt, which is to say above the horizontal plane passing through the top of the belt, but this implies that the second compartment is outside the packaging again. It is more advantageous to perform the clamping inside the belt, as is shown in Figure 4 and more schematically in Figure 6c. The length (1) of the compartmentalization flaps ranges between the minimum length (Im) and the distance separating the two faces bearing the compartmentalization flaps. In the active position, the compartmentalization flaps (24), together with the faces of the belt that do not bear these flaps (24), form a free space which can serve to accommodate the second compartment (151). The available volume depends on the length of the compartmentalization flaps (24), and therefore on their inclination in the active position. The longer they are, the more inclined they will be and the greater the available volume will be.

[0055] To fill the container, it is necessary first of all to place the bag in the outer packaging, as mentioned above. The first product is poured into the first part (14) of the bag and it is made to settle. The bag is folded while as far as possible avoiding undesirable small folds, and then the compartmentalization flaps (24) are turned down such that their edges clamp the bag at the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131). The compartmentalization flaps (24) are prevented from pivoting beyond the active position by the first product, against which they rest. This forms the first compartment (141). The second product isthen poured into the second part (15) of the bag that is located in the space situated between the upper faces of the two compartmentalization flaps (24). The bag is then sealed with formation of the second compartment. The two other flaps (25) of the belt are then turned down onto the second compartment and the packaging is closed. These two other flaps (25) act as closing flaps. It is possible to provide edging profiles, for example made from cardboard, to cover those upper edges of the belt to which the compartmentalization flaps (24) are fixed, and thus prevent access to the space accommodating the second compartment (151).It would be possible for the second compartment to project beyond the belt as in the second variant. In this case, a lid and, if appropriate, edging profiles may be provided to protect this portion that projects beyond the belt.

[0056] When the first product is being dissolved and the solution produced is being taken in, the compartmentalization flaps (24) are no longer supported by the first product, the quantity of which decreases a little more with every cycle. The compartmentalization flaps (24) are moved apart by the weight of the second product, which falls into the lower part of the bag and can in turn be dissolved.

[0057] Instead of a clamping effect between the facing edges of the two compartmentalization flaps (24, 41), as schematically shown in Figure 6, it is possible to provide an overlap of the compartmentalization flaps (24, 41), or a clamping effect between the edge of a compartmentalization flap (24, 41) resting against the other compartmentalization flap. For this, the flaps are longer than in the aforementioned versions. These possibilities are schematically shown in Figures 7a and 7b, for the one part, and 7c, for the other part, using the example of the second variant. It goes without saying that these modifications could be applied to the two other variants. These compartmentalization modes allow multiple possible volumes for the first compartment with the same packaging.

[0058] It would be possible, in particular in the first embodiment (Figure 1) and in the first variant of the second embodiment (Figure 2), to provide at least one third compartment by providing second compartmentalization means, and in particular a second set of cylinders (30) or a second insert (40), acting on a second perimeter of the bag.

[0059] If support flaps (42) are present, the compartmentalization flaps (41) rest indirectly against the product contained in the first compartment via the support flaps and the wall of the first part of the bag.With the support flaps, it may be possible to do away with the compartmentalization flaps resting against the product contained in the first compartment.

[0060] In an embodiment which is not shown, the compartmentalization means comprise a strap which constricts the bag at the first perimeter.In the first embodiment with cylinders, the holding means for holding the cylinders in the active position may also be designed in the form of a strap. It is no longer necessary that the the cylinders project beyond the packaging.In both cases, means may be provided for opening the strap remotely, in particular from outside the packaging, or from a location situated between the packaging and the bag.

[0061] The base of the container may have the dimensions of half an Euro-pallet, i.e. 600x800 mm. However, other dimensions are conceivable, for example in the range of 300-900 x 400-1000 mm. The height of the container depends on the desired filling. In general, it is between 500 and 1000 mm. The weight also depends on the filling. In the case of a ready -to-use mixture for dialysis, the weight may be about 270 kg and the volume about 400 1.The volume of the first compartment (141) is preferably greater than the volume of the second compartment (151) situated above the first compartment. In particular, the volume of the first compartment may represent at least 66% of the total volume, or even at least 80% of the total volume.The bag may have a thickness ranging between 150 and 400 microns, for example 200 microns.

[0062] The container of the invention is particularly suitable for ready-to-use mixtures for dialysis. The first compartment may contain an electrolyte mixture (for example sodium, magnesium, calcium and potassium salts) and glucose or an acid (for example sodium diacetate or citric acid). The second compartment contains an acid if the glucose is present in the first compartment, or glucose if the first compartment contains the acid. If the container contains three compartments, it is possible to place the glucose in the second one and the acid in the third one, or vice versa.List of references

[0063] 10 Flexible bag....11.... Filling opening....12.... Tubing> 121... .Connector....13.... First perimeter> 131... .Compartmentalization zone....14. . . .First (lower) part of the bag> 141 . . .First (lower) compartment....15.... Second (upper) part of the bag> 151.... Second (upper) compartment20. . . .Outer packaging....21.... Belt> 211.... Passage for the tubing> 212....Orifices for the passage of the clamping cylinders ....22....Bottom> 221.... Passage for the tubing....24....First pair of flaps....25.... Second pair of flaps> 251.... Notch30...Clamping cylinders40.... Insert....41....First pair of flaps....42....Second pair of flaps> 421.... Notch....43.... Skirt50.... Lid, ...51....Base....52....Lateral rimD....Direction of extent of the bag1 Length of the flapIm...Minimum length of the flap

Claims

Claims

1. Container consisting of• a flexible bag (10) provided with o an inner face, o a filling opening (11), o a tubing (12) for introducing a liquid into the bag and / or extracting a solution from the bag, and o at least a first perimeter (13) separating the flexible bag into a first part (14) and a second part (15), the filling opening being located outside of the first part, and• an outer packaging (20) in which the bag can be placed and provided with means for accessing the filling opening and means for accessing the tubing, characterized in that• the first perimeter constitutes a compartmentalization zone in which the bag can be folded on itself at said first perimeter (13) to bring the compartmentalization zone into a folded state (131) which separates the first part (14) from the second part (15), such that a first compartment (141) is formed, and in that• the container is provided with o compartmentalization means (30, 41, 411, 24, 241) which are situated on the outside of the bag and can be moved between■ an active position, in which they support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131) and prevent it from coming out of this folded state, and■ an inactive position, in which they do not support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state such that said compartmentalization zone can come out of the folded state and enter a non-folded state in which the first part (14) and the second part (15) of the bag are in contact.

2. Container according to claim 1, characterized in that the tubing (12) is situated in the first part (14) of the bag and the filling opening (11) is located outside of the first part (14).

3. Container according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in the folded state (131) of the compartmentalization zone, most, or all, of the points on the inner face of the compartmentalization zone are adjacent to another, facing point of said compartmentalization zone, without continuity of material between the two facing points.

4. Container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the compartmentalization means comprise two elongate elements (30, 24, 241, 41, 411) which, in the active position, are placed on either side of the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131), the elongate elements being preferably at least as long as the compartmentalization zone in the folded state.

5. Container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the active position, the compartmentalization means (30, 24, 241, 41, 411) clamp the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131).

6. Container according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the container is provided with two compartmentalization flaps (24, 41) each provided with an edge (241, 411), and which, when they are in the active position,• clamp the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131) between their edges (241, 411), or• support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131) between the edge (241, 411) of one of the compartmentalization flaps and that face of the other compartmentalization flap opposite to the first part of the bag, or• support the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (141) between that face of one of the compartmentalization flaps (24, 41) that is directed towards the first part (14) of the bag and that face of the other compartmentalization flap (24, 41) opposite to the first part (14).

7. Container according to claim 6, characterized in that at least one of the flaps is sized so as to, in the active position, rest against the product contained in the first compartment

8. Container according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the container is provided with an insert (40), which is sized so as to be placed in the packaging (20) around the first part (14) of the bag (10) and which is provided with the compartmentalization flaps (41).

9. Container according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the compartmentalization flaps (24) are placed at an end of the packaging (20) and form at least a part of the means for accessing the filling opening (11) of the bag.

10. Container according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the compartmentalization flaps (24, 41) are preferably sized such that, in the active position, they are placed in a same plane and clamp with their edges (241, 411) the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131), support flaps being preferably provided to support, on the side of the firstcompartment (141), the compartmentalization flaps (24) in the active position.

11. Container according to claim 9 or claim 10 together with claim 9, characterized in that the container is provided with a lid (50) for covering the second part (15) of the bag situated out-side the packaging (20).

12. Container according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the compartmentalization flaps (24, 41) are sized such that, in the active position, they are inclined relative to one another, and clamp the compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131) between their edges (241, 411) placed inside the packaging, or between the edge (241, 411) of one of the compartmentalization flaps and that face of the other compartmentalization flap opposite to the first part (14).

13. Container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the packaging (20) is provided with closing flaps (25) for closing the packaging on the side of the filling opening (11).

14. Method for compartmentalizing a bag of a container according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the method includes the steps of:• placing the bag (10) in the packaging (20);• pouring a first product into the first part (14) of the bag through the filling opening (11);• folding the bag on itself at the first perimeter (13) with formation of a compartmentalization zone in the folded state (131) which separates the first part (14) from the second part (15) by forming a first compartment (141) containing the first product; and• placing the compartmentalization means (30, 24, 241, 41, 411) in the active position.

15. Methode according to the preceding claim, characterized by at least one of the following steps:• after placing the compartmentalization means (30, 41, 411, 24, 241) in the active position, pouring a second product into the second part (15) of the bag through the filling opening (11);• sealing the filling opening (11) after the second part (15) of the bag has been filled;• placing a lid (50) to cover the second part (15) of the bag that projects beyond the packaging;• closing the packaging on the side of the filling opening (11) of the bag by turning down closing flaps (25).

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