Two-Part Spout Plug Assembly for Drip-Proof Aseptic Filling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aseptic pouch systems face challenges in preventing leakage when the pouch is inverted, especially when the cap and plug are removed, and incorporating flow inhibitors into the spout can complicate the filling process.
Innovation Solution
A two-part plug assembly with a flow inhibitor, comprising a plug and a plug insert, is used to seal the spout before and after filling, allowing the plug to be removed during filling while ensuring the insert remains fixedly engaged, preventing leakage by using a valve or baffle to control fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a flow inhibitor is incorporated into the spout to prevent leakage when inverted, then leakage prevention is improved, but the filling process becomes more complex due to the need to fill through the flow inhibitor
Solution Approach 1:
The plug assembly is divided into two separate parts: a plug and a plug insert. The plug insert containing the flow inhibitor remains fixed in the spout to prevent leakage, while the removable plug can be easily taken off during filling operations. This segmentation allows the flow inhibitor to stay in place without complicating the filling process, as the filling tube can access the spout opening directly.
2Reliability
If the plug assembly is fixedly engaged with the spout to prevent leakage, then sealing reliability is improved, but the ease of removal for filling is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the plug assembly into a removable plug and a fixed plug insert, the system allows easy removal of the plug for filling while maintaining the plug insert's fixed engagement with the spout. The plug insert includes engagement features that secure it to the spout, ensuring sealing reliability during storage and transport, while the plug can be independently removed when filling is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow inhibitor function is extracted from the removable plug and placed into the fixed plug insert that remains in the spout. This extraction allows the plug to be easily removed for filling without taking the flow inhibitor with it, while the flow inhibitor stays in place to prevent leakage when the container is inverted during storage.
3Reliability
If the plug insert remains fixedly engaged with the spout after plug removal, then flow control is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the two-part assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The plug assembly is segmented into two functional components: a removable plug for easy access and a fixed plug insert containing the flow inhibitor. This segmentation allows the flow control function to be maintained independently through the plug insert's fixed engagement with the spout, while the plug can be removed without affecting the flow control mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug insert is designed to automatically remain fixedly engaged with the spout through its engagement features (such as tabs fitting into recesses or interference fits), eliminating the need for additional mechanisms to hold it in place. This self-retaining design maintains flow control without adding significant complexity to the assembly.
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
The solution effectively prevents leakage from the pouch when inverted and allows for efficient filling and dispensing of liquid or semi-liquid products by maintaining a sterile environment and ensuring the flow inhibitor remains in place to control fluid flow.
Implementation Method 1
The plug insert may include tabs and a recesses for fixedly engaging with the spout, and may also include a flow inhibitor such as a valve or baffle.
Implementation Method 2
The plug insert may include tabs and a recesses for fixedly engaging with the spout, and may also include a flow inhibitor such as a valve or baffle.
Data Source
AI summary
A two-part plug assembly is disclosed for a drip-proof spout on an aseptic flexible container for flowable materials. The two-part plug assembly may include a plug and a plug insert, wherein the plug insert may include a flow inhibitor such as a baffle or valve. In a first step, the plug assembly is removably placed in a first position on a spout prior to aseptic filling. During filling, the plug assembly is removed. After filling, the plug insert assembly is replaced in a second position further down the spout wherein the plug insert fixedly engages the spout. When fixedly engaged to the spout, the plug insert remains inside the spout when the plug is removed prior to a user dispensing the flowable material. When a cap is included, the plug assembly may shift position to allow a cap shaft to engage the flow inhibitor when the plug is removed.