Foldable Flexible Valve Structure for Re-Close Leak Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional packaging in the food, beverage, and personal care industries relies on rigid or semi-rigid fitments, which hinder the transition to fully flexible solutions, lacking effective flow control and re-close features, sustainability, and cost reduction.
Innovation Solution
A flexible valve with a folding hinge and interlocking elements, featuring a bubble element and channel layer, which closes when folded, providing additional security against leakage under external pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid fitments are used in flexible packaging, then structural strength is improved, but flexibility and sustainability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by using a flexible valve constructed from multiple flexible layers (front layer, barrier layer, back layer) that can bend and conform to the flexible packaging container, eliminating the need for rigid fitments while maintaining structural integrity and functionality
2Strength
If rigid fitments are used in flexible packaging, then structural strength is improved, but material usage and cost are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible valve uses thin film layers instead of bulky rigid materials, reducing material consumption while providing the necessary structural support and functionality for the packaging system
Solution Approach 2:
The valve is constructed as a composite structure with multiple layers (front layer, barrier layer, back layer) each serving specific functions, optimizing material usage by combining different materials with complementary properties rather than using thick uniform rigid material
3Ease of operation
If traditional valve designs are used, then flow control is provided, but re-close functionality and security are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The valve incorporates a foldable design that can dynamically transition between open and closed states, allowing the valve to be folded back onto itself to create a sealed closure, providing both flow control during use and secure re-closure when not in use
Solution Approach 2:
The valve is divided into separable functional layers (front layer with opening, barrier layer, back layer with sealing surface) that can be independently positioned and sealed, enabling both controlled flow access and secure closure by folding the front layer back and sealing it to the back layer
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a flexible valve (10), wherein the valve can be folded and sealed for containing liquids within flexible packaging in combination with a flexible to semi-rigid container. The valve can be in an open unfolded configuration, or a closed folded configuration. Typical embodiments of the disclosure include a bubble (12) which is formed between a base layer and a bubble layer. A channel (17) for the product to be dispensed from a storage volume (80) is formed between the bubble layer and a channel layer.