Gusseted Flexible Container Retractable Dispensing System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible containers face challenges in easy and clean dispensing of fluids due to pressure-induced fluid flow, and existing dispensing systems protrude significantly, limiting storage and shipping capacity.
Innovation Solution
A flexible container design with a dispensing system that includes a detachable fitment and extendible spout, where the dispensing system is integrated between the top and back panels, allowing it to retract when filled, reducing the overall height and preventing fluid flow during handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional fitment or closure is used, then the container height is minimized, but the dispensing system cannot facilitate easy and clean transfer of pourable materials
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system is nested within the container structure by integrating it between the top and back panels. The system retracts into the container body when not in use, similar to a nested doll configuration, thereby minimizing the container's overall height while maintaining full dispensing functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing system transitions from a protruding three-dimensional structure to a flat, integrated configuration by positioning it between panels. This dimensional change allows the system to lie flush with the container surface, reducing height while preserving the ability to extend for dispensing operations.
2Ease of operation
If a protruding dispensing system is used, then easy and clean transfer of pourable materials is facilitated, but fewer containers can fit on standard store shelves or in shipping containers
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system is nested within the container structure by integrating it between the top and back panels. The system retracts into the container body when not in use, similar to a nested doll configuration, thereby minimizing the container's overall height while maintaining full dispensing functionality when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing system transitions from a protruding three-dimensional structure to a flat, integrated configuration by positioning it between panels. This dimensional change allows the system to lie flush with the container surface, reducing height while preserving the ability to extend for dispensing operations.
3Ease of operation
If user grip pressure is applied during opening or dispensing, then the flexible container can be opened, but unintended fluid flow and spills occur
Solution Approach 1:
The dispensing system acts as an intermediary between the user and the fluid contents. It provides a controlled interface that manages fluid flow, preventing direct contact between user pressure and the fluid, thereby eliminating spills while maintaining ease of opening and dispensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The dispensing system incorporates automatic flow control mechanisms that respond to user activation without requiring precise pressure control. The system self-regulates fluid flow based on activation state, preventing unintended spills while maintaining simple user operation.
Data Source
AI summary
Flexible containers are provided herein. In some embodiments, the flexible containers include a front panel, a back panel, a bottom panel, and a top panel attached to form a pourable material storage area, wherein the front panel and the top panel include a hole in the front panel and the top panel to form a dispensing system passage, and wherein the dispensing system passage is not in fluid communication with the pourable material storage area. A dispensing system is attached to the top panel between the top panel and the back panel and extends through the dispensing system passage.