Multi-compartment Bag with Overlapping Seals for Independent Volume Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for forming multi-compartment bags are complex and lack flexibility in varying the volume of one compartment relative to another, and they often do not allow simultaneous filling or suitable configuration for microwave heating.
Innovation Solution
A method involving draping a continuous sheet of bag forming material around primary and secondary fill pipes, forming longitudinal and transverse seals to create compartments, and metering materials into each compartment, with the secondary compartment overlapping and folding against the primary compartment for stability and display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If prior art processes are used for forming multi-compartment bags, then bag formation is achieved, but the processes are complex and offer limited flexibility for modifying compartment volumes
Solution Approach 1:
The bag is divided into multiple compartments separated by transverse seal lines, allowing each compartment to be independently filled and volume-adjusted. The continuous sheet material is segmented into sections that form separate compartments while maintaining a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic adjustment of compartment volumes by varying the positioning of transverse seal lines and the dimensions of individual compartments. The bag structure can be modified to accommodate different volume requirements for primary and secondary compartments.
2Productivity
If conventional multi-compartment bag methods are used, then compartments are formed, but they cannot be filled simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The bag structure is segmented into multiple compartments with separate fill openings, allowing each compartment to be filled independently and simultaneously through different fill pipes or openings, thereby increasing productivity and reducing total filling time.
3Stability of the object's composition
If compartments are formed without overlapping transverse seal areas, then bag formation is achieved, but the secondary compartment cannot fold stably against the primary compartment
Solution Approach 1:
The secondary compartment is designed to fold against and nest within the primary compartment, with overlapping transverse seal areas that allow the secondary compartment to be contained within or adjacent to the primary compartment, creating a stable nested configuration for transportation and display.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible volume adjustment between compartments, simultaneous filling, and a stable bag configuration suitable for microwave heating, reducing damage and optimizing shelf display while allowing independent opening of compartments.
Implementation Method 1
forming longitudinal seals along the first and second seal lines
Implementation Method 2
forming a transverse seal comprising transverse seal areas below the primary and secondary fill pipes
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed for forming a two-compartment bag. The method comprises draping a sheet of bag forming material around a primary fill pipe and one or more secondary fill pipes, forming multiple compartments by sealing the sheet material around the respective fill pipes, filling the various compartments with material, and sealing the bag.The method comprises forming transverse seals so that a transverse seal area of a secondary compartment at least partially overlaps with a transverse seal area of the first compartment, so that the secondary compartment is fixedly folded against the first compartment.The method permits the volume of the secondary compartments to be varied independent from the volume of the primary compartment. Each compartment may be opened without opening the other compartments.In a preferred embodiment the bag is made of a microwave-compatible material, and at least one of the compartments contains a food material intended for reheating or preparation in a microwave oven.