CN1745017A

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: CN1745017A
Application number: CN 200380109328
Authority: CN
Inventors: 杰拉尔德·A·哈钦森; 罗伯特·A·李
Original assignee: ADVANCED PLASTICS TECHNOLOGIES
Current assignee: ADVANCED PLASTICS TECHNOLOGIES
Priority date: 2002-12-27
Filing date: 2003-12-29
Publication date: 2006-03-08

Abstract

Disclosed are flexible pouches including a process for manufacturing said pouches from preforms. Also disclosed is a process for manufacturing and filling said pouches wherein the preform/pouch is handled via the neck portion throughout the production line. In one embodiment, the filled pouch is further dressed, decorated, or inserted into a rigid outer container, for example a box. In a preferred embodiment, the production line is a modified version of the type commonly used for handling rigid containers, such as those used to manufacture and fill soft drinks.

Description

Translated fromChinese

用于制造和填充柔性袋的装置和工艺Apparatus and process for making and filling flexible bags

技术领域technical field

本发明涉及用于制造和填充柔性袋的工艺，其中所述袋具有一个或更多个层。特别是在多层袋中，所述层直接彼此粘结并且是高柔性且坚固的，从而它们适于各种包装应用。这些袋可以用作独立的产品或可以用于对容器加衬。The present invention relates to a process for manufacturing and filling a flexible bag, wherein the bag has one or more layers. Especially in multilayer pouches, the layers are bonded directly to each other and are highly flexible and strong so that they are suitable for various packaging applications. These bags can be used as stand-alone products or can be used to line containers.

背景技术Background technique

最近，柔性袋用作用于液体、液体饮料和液体食物的不回收包装。这种袋优选满足许多性能标准，包括可折叠性、光学透明度、透明性以及经受住严酷使用环境的足够的机械强度。柔性袋优选提供对潮湿蒸汽和其它气体通过的充分阻碍，以防止容纳在其中的物品的污染。Recently, flexible bags are used as non-returnable packaging for liquids, liquid beverages and liquid foods. Such bags preferably meet a number of performance criteria, including foldability, optical clarity, transparency, and sufficient mechanical strength to withstand harsh use environments. The flexible bag preferably provides a sufficient barrier to the passage of moisture vapor and other gases to prevent contamination of the items contained therein.

通常用于柔性袋应用中的多层薄膜是涂铝的聚乙烯或聚丙烯。诸如包含诸如EVOH或MXD6的防渗聚合物的那些其它多层薄膜被用于防止氧或二氧化碳迁移。这种薄膜结构必须典型利用较慢并难于填充的热密封或缝合技术制成袋。由于需要吸管饮料内含物的传送会很困难。Multilayer films commonly used in flexible pouch applications are aluminized polyethylene or polypropylene. Other multilayer films such as those comprising barrier polymers such as EVOH or MXD6 are used to prevent oxygen or carbon dioxide migration. Such film structures must typically be made into bags using heat sealing or seaming techniques which are slow and difficult to fill. Delivery of beverage contents can be difficult due to the need for a straw.

在一定的应用中，运输盒子或其它容器常常衬有薄塑料衬以增加食物或其它容易腐烂的商品的保存期，或防止产品从密封的运输容器泄露或溢出。这种塑料衬常常是袋子形式的。许多方法和工艺已经被用于将袋子/衬放入盒子而然后填充袋子。然而，许多这些工艺的一个主要缺点是能够实现的填充速度慢。In certain applications, shipping boxes or other containers are often lined with a thin plastic liner to increase the shelf life of food or other perishable commodities, or to prevent product from leaking or spilling from the sealed shipping container. Such plastic liners are often in the form of bags. Many methods and processes have been used to place the bag/liner into the box and then fill the bag. However, a major disadvantage of many of these processes is the slow rate of filling that can be achieved.

发明内容Contents of the invention

因此所需要的是一种用于制造和填充柔性袋的快速和可靠的方法和设备。在一个实施例中，提供一种用于在连续生产线中制造和填充柔性袋的工艺。该工艺允许增加制造和填充速度，由此极大地降低生产成本，优选该工艺是商业可行的。在优选实施方式中，连续生产线从具有颈部和主体的、诸如可用于制造瓶子的预成型坯开始。该预成型坯被吹塑成柔性袋。袋被用希望的产品填充，并且然后被封闭或封盖(capped)，以用于最后使用。在一种实施方式中，填充的袋被进一步整理、装饰和/或插入到刚性的外部容器例如盒子中。在一种实施方式中，生产线是通常用于处理刚性容器类型的生产线的修改版，诸如用于制造和填充饮料的生产线，其中系统修改为处理使用颈部的柔性袋。What is therefore needed is a fast and reliable method and apparatus for making and filling flexible bags. In one embodiment, a process for manufacturing and filling flexible bags in a continuous production line is provided. The process allows for increased fabrication and filling speeds, thereby greatly reducing production costs, preferably the process is commercially viable. In a preferred embodiment, the continuous line starts with a preform having a neck and a body, such as can be used to make a bottle. The preform is blow molded into a flexible bag. The bag is filled with the desired product and then closed or capped for final use. In one embodiment, the filled bag is further organized, decorated and/or inserted into a rigid outer container such as a box. In one embodiment, the line is a modified version of a line normally used to handle rigid container types, such as a line for making and filling beverages, where the system is modified to handle flexible bags that use necks.

袋可以是具有颈部终饰(finish)的单层或多层可折叠袋。在优选实施方式中，袋的内层包括聚对苯二甲酸乙二醇酯(PET)或聚丙烯。在一种实施方式中，聚丙烯优选是澄清聚丙烯。在其它实施方式中，合适的内层材料包括但不限于各种聚合物，诸如聚酯，包括聚丙烯和聚乙烯在内的聚烯烃，聚碳酸酯，包括尼龙在内的聚酰胺，或丙烯酸树脂。这些材料可以单独使用或彼此结合使用。The bag can be a single or multi-layer collapsible bag with a neck finish. In a preferred embodiment, the inner layer of the bag comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polypropylene. In one embodiment, the polypropylene is preferably clear polypropylene. In other embodiments, suitable inner layer materials include, but are not limited to, various polymers such as polyesters, polyolefins including polypropylene and polyethylene, polycarbonates, polyamides including nylon, or acrylics. resin. These materials may be used alone or in combination with each other.

某些实施方案的PET包括但不限于改性PET以及与其它材料混合的PET。改性PET的一个例子是“高IPAPET”或IPA改性PET，其中PET包含高的IPA(异酞酸)水平，以提供诸如降低的结晶性的处理优点。另一个例子包括但不限于高拉伸PET、再循环高拉伸PET和再循环PET。Certain embodiments of PET include, but are not limited to, modified PET and PET blended with other materials. An example of a modified PET is "high IPAPET" or IPA modified PET, where the PET contains high levels of IPA (isophthalic acid) to provide processing advantages such as reduced crystallinity. Another example includes, but is not limited to, high draw PET, recycled high draw PET, and recycled PET.

在其它实施方式中，合适的袋将具有一个或多个外层，该外层包括以下材料，所述材料包括但不限于聚乙烯、聚丙烯、改性聚烯烃、改性高弹体、聚苯乙烯，热塑性聚氨酯，共聚多酯防渗材料，含苯氧基类热塑性塑料，聚酰胺，聚萘二甲酸乙二醇酯(polyethylene naphthalate)，聚萘二甲酸乙二醇酯共聚物，聚萘二甲酸乙二醇酯/聚对苯二甲酸乙二醇酯混合物，聚对苯二甲酸乙二醇酯，相容聚合物的混合物，和它们的组合。在另一种实施方式中，外层作为泡沫层利用物理或化学发泡剂提供。In other embodiments, suitable bags will have one or more outer layers comprising materials including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, modified polyolefins, modified elastomers, polyethylene Styrene, thermoplastic polyurethane, copolyester barrier material, phenoxy-containing thermoplastics, polyamide, polyethylene naphthalate (polyethylene naphthalate), polyethylene naphthalate copolymer, polyethylene naphthalate Ethylene dicarboxylate/polyethylene terephthalate blends, polyethylene terephthalate, blends of compatible polymers, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the outer layer is provided as a foam layer using a physical or chemical blowing agent.

在一种实施方式中，具有颈部终饰的多层袋包括(a)第一内层，第一内层包括聚对苯二甲酸乙二醇酯；(b)第二外层，第二外层包括一种或多种材料，所述材料包括但不限于聚乙烯，聚丙烯，改性聚烯烃，改性高弹体，聚苯乙烯，热塑性聚氨酯；其中所述袋通过预成型坯的适当吹塑操作制造。在另一种实施方式中，外层利用物理或化学发泡剂设置为泡沫层。优选实施例的袋还包括瓶颈部终饰，该袋可以在适当的填充线以高产量填充。一种实施方式的瓶颈部终饰优选为螺纹的或具冠的。在利用具冠的瓶颈部终饰的实施例中，冠型颈部终饰优选是能够接收咬合开启/关闭附件的类型。在一种实施方式中，优选的袋可以还包括推-拉或无溢出附件，或其它适当的瓶封闭件。In one embodiment, a multilayer pouch with a neck finish includes (a) a first inner layer comprising polyethylene terephthalate; (b) a second outer layer comprising a second The outer layer comprises one or more materials including but not limited to polyethylene, polypropylene, modified polyolefin, modified elastomer, polystyrene, thermoplastic polyurethane; wherein the bag is passed through the preform Manufactured by proper blow molding operations. In another embodiment, the outer layer is provided as a foam layer using a physical or chemical blowing agent. The bag of the preferred embodiment also includes a bottle neck finish, and the bag can be filled at high throughput at a suitable fill line. The neck finish of one embodiment is preferably threaded or crowned. In embodiments utilizing a crowned neck finish, the crowned neck finish is preferably of the type capable of receiving a snap open/close attachment. In one embodiment, the preferred bag may also include a push-pull or non-spill attachment, or other suitable bottle closure.

在一种实施方式中，适合于吹塑成具有颈部终饰的柔性袋的具有颈部终饰的预成型坯可以通过本领域技术人员熟知的传统方法制备，包括但不限于，过成型，共注射，和注射-过注射法。例如，可以使用1999年4月21日提交的美国专利No.6,352,426、1998年10月19日提交的美国专利No.6,391,408、1997年10月17日提交的美国专利No.6,312,641、2002年3月4日提交的美国专利申请No.10/090,471、对应于2003年3月21日提交的美国专利申请No.10/395,899的PCT公开WO03/080731，以及2003年7月3日提交的美国专利申请No，10/614,731中披露的方法，这些方法通过参考整体并入这里。In one embodiment, a preform with a neck finish suitable for blow molding into a flexible bag with a neck finish can be prepared by conventional methods well known to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to, overmolding, Co-injection, and injection-over-injection methods. For example, US Patent No. 6,352,426 filed April 21, 1999, US Patent No. 6,391,408 filed October 19, 1998, US Patent No. 6,312,641 filed October 17, 1997, March 2002 U.S. Patent Application No. 10/090,471 filed on 4th, PCT Publication WO03/080731 corresponding to U.S. Patent Application No. 10/395,899 filed on March 21, 2003, and U.S. Patent Application filed on July 3, 2003 No, 10/614,731 discloses the methods, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

在一种实施方式中，制造和填充线包括利用通过颈部保持柔性袋的输送机/机械手/运输机连接在一起的各种模块或系统。适当的系统包括但不限于处理，制造和填充系统。在一种实施方式中用于制造和填充柔性袋的装置包括：(a)通过制造和填充系统传送柔性袋的处理系统；(b)制造系统，该制造系统包括具有颈部终饰(finish)的预成型坯；以及吹塑机，其中所述预成型坯被吹塑成具有颈部终饰的柔性袋；以及(c)包括填充机的填充系统，其中所述柔性袋由期望的产品填充；以及封闭或封盖机(加盖机)，其中所述柔性袋被封闭；其中处理系统利于颈部通过整个系统传送预成型坯和柔性袋。In one embodiment, the fabrication and filling line comprises various modules or systems linked together with conveyors/robots/conveyors that hold flexible bags by the neck. Suitable systems include, but are not limited to, handling, fabrication and filling systems. In one embodiment, an apparatus for manufacturing and filling a flexible bag includes: (a) a handling system that conveys a flexible bag through a manufacturing and filling system; (b) a manufacturing system that includes a and a blow molding machine, wherein the preform is blown into a flexible bag having a neck finish; and (c) a filling system comprising a filling machine, wherein the flexible bag is filled with the desired product ; and a closing or capping machine (capping machine), wherein the flexible bag is closed; wherein the handling system facilitates the transfer of the preform and the flexible bag through the neck through the entire system.

在另一种实施方式中，优选的制造和填充线还包括装饰、修饰，和/或将袋插入刚性容器内。袋可以在其填充之后或之前装饰、修饰，和/或将袋插入刚性容器内。In another embodiment, the preferred manufacturing and filling line also includes decorating, trimming, and/or inserting bags into rigid containers. The bag can be decorated, trimmed, and/or inserted into the rigid container after or before it is filled.

附图说明Description of drawings

图1示出了优选生产线的非限定实施例。Figure 1 shows a non-limiting example of a preferred production line.

图2示出了优选预成型坯的非限定实施例。Figure 2 shows a non-limiting example of a preferred preform.

具体实施方式Detailed ways

可以理解，在本领域中一直需要具有增加的强度和柔性，容易填充和防止溢出的可靠的输送机构的柔性袋。同时，这种袋必须能够提供对于特定产品可能是必须的其它特性，例如良好的光学特性，化学中性，强度，刚性和抗泄露性。此外还需要能够允许以经济的方式进行柔性袋的高速填充的工艺。It can be appreciated that there is a continuing need in the art for flexible bags with increased strength and flexibility, easy filling and a reliable delivery mechanism that prevents spillage. At the same time, such bags must be able to provide other properties that may be necessary for a particular product, such as good optical properties, chemical neutrality, strength, rigidity and leak resistance. There is also a need for a process that allows high-speed filling of flexible bags in an economical manner.

在一个实施例中，披露了在连续生产线中制造和填充柔性袋的工艺。该工艺允许制造和填充速度增加，由此极大地降低了生产成本，致使该工艺经济可行。在优选实施例中，一种连续生产线从通常用于制造瓶子的类型的预成型坯(preform)开始，预成型坯然后被吹塑成柔性袋，袋由期望的产品填充，并且然后封闭，用于最终使用。在一个实施例中，填充的袋被进一步修饰，装饰和/或插入刚性外部容器如盒子中。在其它实施利中，袋在填充和/或修饰、装饰之前放入刚性外部容器内。在优选实施方式中，生产线是用于处理刚性容器的类型的修改版，诸如用于制造和填充软饮料的生产线。优选的填充工艺是用于填充PET瓶的本领域内已知类型的工艺。这种系统包括但不限于无菌的、热填充或冷冻填充线。In one embodiment, a process for making and filling flexible bags in a continuous production line is disclosed. The process allows for increased fabrication and filling speeds, thereby greatly reducing production costs, rendering the process economically viable. In a preferred embodiment, a continuous line starts from a preform of the type commonly used to manufacture bottles, which is then blown into a flexible bag, which is filled with the desired product and then closed, with for final use. In one embodiment, the filled pouch is further modified, decorated and/or inserted into a rigid outer container such as a box. In other implementations, the bag is placed within a rigid outer container prior to filling and/or trimming and decoration. In a preferred embodiment, the production line is a modified version of the type used for handling rigid containers, such as a production line for making and filling soft drinks. The preferred filling process is of the type known in the art for filling PET bottles. Such systems include, but are not limited to, aseptic, hot-fill or freeze-fill lines.

A.材料A.Material

I.优选袋的物理特性I. Optimal Bag Physical Characteristics

下面优点中的一个或多个可以由优选实施例实现。在伸展吹塑机上吹出的由预成型坯制造的轻质袋可以通过制造工艺的每一步骤由颈部捕获和保持并且直接传送。袋可以以经济的填充速度和很少的额外资金投资在目前的PET或玻璃填充线上填充。这种填充线可以设计为有效填充传统的瓶子或柔性袋。这种贯穿填充和包装工艺的能够捕获颈部和传送柔性袋的能力允许高速处理柔性袋并且显著降低制造成本。此外，优选实施例的颈部终饰避免了需要用于分配饮料的本领域熟知的昂贵的三角形顶部材料。One or more of the following advantages may be achieved by the preferred embodiments. Lightweight bags made from preforms blown out on stretch blow molding machines can be captured and held by the neck and conveyed directly through each step of the manufacturing process. Bags can be filled on current PET or glass filling lines with economical fill speeds and little additional capital investment. This filling line can be designed to efficiently fill conventional bottles or flexible bags. This ability to capture the neck and convey the flexible pouch throughout the filling and packaging process allows for high speed handling of the flexible pouch and significantly reduces manufacturing costs. Furthermore, the neck finish of the preferred embodiment avoids the need for expensive triangular top materials known in the art for dispensing beverages.

可折叠性是期望的以提供袋的更合适和完全的排泄。与刚性液体容器不同，它依靠用于排泄的排气，柔性袋依靠用于排泄的折叠性。随着袋排泄，大气压力以与排泄速度成比例的速度皱缩袋。以这种方式，袋能够完全排泄。为了袋可皱缩，袋应当具有柔性壁。如果壁太硬，袋将不完全排泄。因此，在柔性袋的设计中的一种考虑是壁结构优选具有充分的柔性并且可皱缩以可充分排泄。Collapsibility is desirable to provide a more comfortable and complete venting of the bag. Unlike rigid liquid containers, which rely on venting for excretion, flexible bags rely on collapsibility for excretion. As the bag drains, atmospheric pressure shrinks the bag at a rate proportional to the rate of drain. In this way, the bag can be completely drained. For the bag to be collapsible, the bag should have flexible walls. If the walls are too stiff, the pouch will not drain completely. Therefore, one consideration in the design of the flexible bag is that the wall structure is preferably sufficiently flexible and collapsible to be adequately drainable.

在一定的实施例中，希望在将填充的袋送到最终用户，例如商店或自动贩卖机，之前对柔性袋、袋容纳物或袋和其容纳物进行消毒。这有助于确保袋和其容纳物将实质上没有污染。由此，一定实施例的柔性袋的另外的考虑是袋优选通过消毒工艺前进，而实质上不变质。In certain embodiments, it is desirable to sterilize the flexible pouch, the pouch contents, or the pouch and its contents before sending the filled pouch to an end user, such as a store or a vending machine. This helps to ensure that the bag and its contents will be substantially free of contamination. Thus, an additional consideration of the flexible bag of certain embodiments is that the bag preferably advances through the sterilization process without substantially deteriorating.

优选实施例的柔性袋优选具有充分的机械强度，以经受住使用环境中典型遇到的滥用。这种环境包括填充线，包装和分配系统，以及最终用户的存储/运输。袋优选能够用于这些环境并且在这些条件下实质上没有泄露，断裂或溢出。The flexible bags of preferred embodiments preferably have sufficient mechanical strength to withstand the abuse typically encountered in the environment of use. This environment includes fill lines, packaging and distribution systems, and end-user storage/shipping. The bags are preferably capable of use in these environments and do not leak, break or spill substantially under these conditions.

在柔性袋插入刚性外部容器中的实施例中，袋/刚性外部容器系统能够功能上被优化，以提供各种特性，诸如防御氧或CO₂的防渗和热填充特性。In embodiments where the flexible bag is inserted into the rigid outer container, the bag/rigid outer container system can be functionally optimized to provide various properties such as barrier against oxygen or_CO2 and hot fill properties.

2.预成型坯细节2. Preform details

在一个实施例中，适合吹塑成柔性袋的预成型坯包括但不限于单层或多层预成型坯，所述预成型坯包括利用防渗树脂、去氧剂和杀菌剂。(见1999年4月21日提交的美国专利No.6,352,426、1998年10月19日提交的美国专利No.6,391,408、1997年10月17日提交的美国专利No.6,312,641、2002年3月4日提交的美国专利申请No.10/090,471、对应于2003年3月21日提交的美国专利申请No.10/395,899的PCT公开WO03/080731，以及2003年7月3日提交的美国专利申请No，10/614,731，它们披露的内容通过该参考整体并入这里。In one embodiment, preforms suitable for blow molding into flexible bags include, but are not limited to, single-layer or multi-layer preforms that include the use of a barrier resin, an oxygen scavenger, and a biocide. (See U.S. Patent No. 6,352,426 filed April 21, 1999, U.S. Patent No. 6,391,408 filed October 19, 1998, U.S. Patent No. 6,312,641 filed October 17, 1997, March 4, 2002 U.S. Patent Application No. 10/090,471 filed, PCT Publication WO03/080731 corresponding to U.S. Patent Application No. 10/395,899 filed March 21, 2003, and U.S. Patent Application No. filed July 3, 2003, 10/614,731, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by this reference in their entirety.

袋可以是单层或多层袋。在优选实施方式中，袋的内层包括聚对苯二甲酸乙二醇酯(PET)或聚丙烯。在一个实施例中，聚丙烯优选是澄清聚丙烯。除了其它方面，由聚丙烯制造的单层或多层袋设可以使用，且产品需要提高的填充温度或“热填充”。Bags can be single layer or multi layer bags. In a preferred embodiment, the inner layer of the bag comprises polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polypropylene. In one embodiment, the polypropylene is preferably clear polypropylene. Among other things, single or multi-layer pouches made of polypropylene may be used and the product requires elevated filling temperatures or "hot fill".

一定实施例的PET包括但不限于改性PET，再循环PET以及与其它材料混合的PET。改性PET的一个例子是高IPA PET或IPA改性PET，其中PET包含高IPA(异酞酸)水平以提供诸如降低的可结晶性的处理优点。另一个例子是高拉伸PET，其中PET已经被改性，以增强其拉伸能力。Certain embodiments of PET include, but are not limited to, modified PET, recycled PET, and PET blended with other materials. An example of a modified PET is high IPA PET or IPA modified PET, where the PET contains high IPA (isophthalic acid) levels to provide processing advantages such as reduced crystallization. Another example is high stretch PET, where the PET has been modified to enhance its stretchability.

尽管优选实施例用聚对苯二甲酸乙二醇酯(PET)或聚丙烯进行了描述，但是其它合适的内层材料包括但不限于各种诸如聚酯，包括聚丙烯和聚乙烯在内的聚烯烃，聚碳酸酯，包括尼龙在内的聚酰胺，或丙烯酸树脂。这些材料可以单独使用或彼此结合使用。Although preferred embodiments have been described using polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polypropylene, other suitable inner layer materials include, but are not limited to, various types of materials such as polyester, including polypropylene and polyethylene. Polyolefins, polycarbonates, polyamides including nylon, or acrylics. These materials may be used alone or in combination with each other.

在其它实施例中，合适的袋将具有一个或多个外层，所述外层包括一种或多种材料，所述材料包括但不限于，聚乙烯，聚丙烯，改性聚烯烃，改性高弹体，聚苯乙烯，热塑性聚氨酯，共聚多酯防渗材料，含苯氧基类热塑性塑料，聚酰胺，聚萘二甲酸乙二醇酯，聚萘二甲酸乙二醇酯共聚物，聚萘二甲酸乙二醇酯/聚对苯二甲酸乙二醇酯混合物，聚对苯二甲酸乙二醇酯，相容聚合物的混合物，及它们的组合。在另一实施例中，外层利用物理或化学发泡剂设置为泡沫层。外层也可以包括再循环材料。In other embodiments, suitable bags will have one or more outer layers comprising one or more materials including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, modified polyolefins, modified Permanent elastomer, polystyrene, thermoplastic polyurethane, copolyester barrier material, phenoxy-containing thermoplastic, polyamide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyethylene naphthalate copolymer, Polyethylene naphthalate/polyethylene terephthalate blends, polyethylene terephthalate, blends of compatible polymers, and combinations thereof. In another embodiment, the outer layer is provided as a foam layer using a physical or chemical blowing agent. The outer layer may also include recycled materials.

如上述术语用在这里一样，“含苯氧基”树脂，也称作含苯氧基类热塑性塑料，包括广泛的材料，该材料包括在WO 99/20462中讨论的那些材料。含苯氧基树脂和热塑性环氧树脂的进一步的子集是优选的羟基苯氧醚聚合物，其中聚羟基氨基醚共聚物(PHAE)是进一步的优选材料。例如，合适的PHAE树脂包括BLOX树脂，该BLOX树脂可从The Dow ChemicalCompany，Midland，MI，USA获得。参见例如美国专利No.6,455,116；No.6,180,715；No.6,011,111；No.5,834,078；No.5,814,373；No.5,464,924；和No.5,275,853；还请参见PCT公开WO 99/48962；WO99/12995；WO 98/29491；和WO 98/14498。其它合适的含苯氧基树脂和热塑性环氧树脂子集包括但不限于，诸如美国专利No.5,089,588和No.5,143,998中描述的羟基官能性聚(酰胺-醚)，诸如美国专利No.5,134,218中描述的聚(羟基酰胺-醚)，诸如美国专利No.5,115,075和No.5,218,075中描述的聚醚，诸如美国专利No.5,164,472中描述的羟基官能性聚醚，诸如美国专利No.5,149,768中描述的羟基官能性聚(醚氨磺酰)，诸如美国专利No.5,171,820中描述的聚(羟基酯醚)。As the above term is used herein, "phenoxy-containing" resins, also known as phenoxy-containing thermoplastics, include a wide range of materials including those discussed in WO 99/20462. A further subset of phenoxy-containing resins and thermoplastic epoxy resins are the preferred hydroxyphenoxyether polymers, with polyhydroxyaminoether copolymers (PHAE) being a further preferred material. For example, suitable PHAE resins include BLOX resins, which are available from The Dow Chemical Company, Midland, MI, USA. See, e.g., U.S. Patent Nos. 6,455,116; No. 6,180,715; No. 6,011,111; No. 5,834,078; No. 5,814,373; 29491; and WO 98/14498. Other suitable subsets of phenoxy-containing resins and thermoplastic epoxy resins include, but are not limited to, hydroxyl-functional poly(amide-ethers) such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 5,089,588 and No. 5,143,998, such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 5,134,218 Poly(hydroxyamide-ethers) described, such as polyethers described in U.S. Patent No. 5,115,075 and No. 5,218,075, hydroxyl-functional polyethers such as described in U.S. Patent No. 5,164,472, such as described in U.S. Patent No. 5,149,768 Hydroxy-functional poly(ether sulfamoyl), such as the poly(hydroxy ester ethers) described in US Patent No. 5,171,820.

共聚多酯防渗材料包括与PET相比具有良好防渗特性的对苯二酸，异酞酸和至少一种二醇的聚酯，诸如授予Jabarin的美国专利No.4,578,295中披露的，并且他们作为B-OlO，B-030和该族的其它材料可商业获得。(MitsuiPetrochemical kid.Ltd.，日本)；Copolyester barrier materials include polyesters of terephthalic acid, isophthalic acid and at least one diol having good barrier properties compared to PET, such as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,578,295 to Jabarin, and they B-030 and other materials of this family are commercially available as B-010. (Mitsui Petrochemical kid.Ltd., Japan);

优选的聚酰胺材料的例子包括来自Mitsubishi Gas Chemical(日本)的MXD-6。其它优选的聚酰胺材料是聚酰胺和聚酯和混合物，包括具有重量百分比大约为1-10％的聚酯的那些，其中聚酯优选是PET或改性PET。混合物可以是普通混合物或者它们可以与抗氧化剂或其它材料相容。这种材料的例子包括2003年3月21日提交的美国专利申请No.10/395,899中描述的，该专利申请通过参考整体并入这里。聚酰胺材料也可以用作衬底材料。Examples of preferred polyamide materials include MXD-6 from Mitsubishi Gas Chemical (Japan). Other preferred polyamide materials are polyamides and polyesters and mixtures, including those having about 1-10% by weight polyester, wherein the polyester is preferably PET or modified PET. The blends can be common blends or they can be compatible with antioxidants or other materials. Examples of such materials include those described in US Patent Application Serial No. 10/395,899, filed March 21, 2003, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Polyamide materials can also be used as substrate material.

其它优选材料包括但不限于聚酰胺，聚萘二甲酸乙二醇酯(PEN)，PEN共聚物，PEN共聚酯，PET/PEN混合物，及它们的组合。优选材料还包括但不限于丙烯酸树脂，丙烯酸树脂包括聚丙烯腈聚合物，丙烯腈苯乙烯共聚物。PEN材料可以从Shell Chemical Company购买。Other preferred materials include, but are not limited to, polyamides, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), PEN copolymers, PEN copolyesters, PET/PEN blends, and combinations thereof. Preferred materials also include, but are not limited to, acrylic resins, including polyacrylonitrile polymers, acrylonitrile styrene copolymers. PEN materials are commercially available from Shell Chemical Company.

在另一实施例中，包括聚酰胺，PET或含PET的共聚合物，以及至少一种增容剂的相容聚合物的混合物可以用作预成型坯/袋的一个或多个层。在优选实施例中，相容聚合物的混合物包括聚酰胺，优选为MXD-6，PET或含PET的共聚物，以及至少一种选自IPA改性PET和PET离子交联聚合物的增容剂(见2003年3月21日提交的美国专利申请No.10/395,899)。In another embodiment, a blend of compatible polymers comprising polyamide, PET or a PET-containing co-polymer, and at least one compatibilizer may be used as one or more layers of the preform/bag. In a preferred embodiment, the blend of compatibilizing polymers comprises a polyamide, preferably MXD-6, PET or a PET-containing copolymer, and at least one compatibilizer selected from IPA-modified PET and PET ionomers agents (see US Patent Application No. 10/395,899 filed March 21, 2003).

在一个实施例中，多层袋包括(a)第一内层，该第一内层包括聚对苯二甲酸乙二醇酯，(b)第二外层，该第二外层包括一种或多种材料，该材料包括但不限于聚乙烯，聚丙烯，改性聚烯烃，改性高弹体，聚苯乙烯，和热塑性聚氨酯，其中所述袋通过对预成型坯的适当吹塑操作制造。在另一实施例中，外层利用物理或化学发泡剂设置为泡沫层。优选实施例的袋还包括瓶颈部终饰，该袋能够以高产量在合适的填充线填充。一个实施例的瓶颈部终饰优选是螺纹的或具冠的。在利用具冠的实施例中，瓶颈部终饰，冠型颈部终饰优选是能够接收咬合开启/关闭附件的类型的。在一个实施例中，优选的袋可以还包括推拉或无溢出附件，或其它合适的瓶封闭件。In one embodiment, a multilayer pouch includes (a) a first inner layer comprising polyethylene terephthalate, (b) a second outer layer comprising a or a variety of materials including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, modified polyolefins, modified elastomers, polystyrene, and thermoplastic polyurethane, wherein the bag is obtained by suitable blow molding of the preform manufacture. In another embodiment, the outer layer is provided as a foam layer using a physical or chemical blowing agent. The bag of the preferred embodiment also includes a bottle neck finish, the bag can be filled at a suitable fill line with high throughput. The neck finish of one embodiment is preferably threaded or crowned. In embodiments utilizing a crowned, bottle neck finish, the crown-type neck finish is preferably of the type capable of receiving a snap open/close attachment. In one embodiment, the preferred bag may also include a push-pull or non-spill attachment, or other suitable bottle closure.

在一个实施例中，适合吹塑成柔软袋的预成型坯可是通过本领域技术人员熟知的传统方法制备，包括但不限于过成型，共注射，以及注射过注射法。例如可以使用1999年4月21日提交的美国专利No.6,352,426，1998年10月19日提交的美国专利No.6,391,408，1997年10月17日提交的美国专利No.6,312,641，2002年3月4日提交的美国专利申请No.10/090,471，对应于2003年3月21日提交的美国专利申请No.10/395,899的PCT公开WO03/080731，以及2003年7月3日提交的美国专利申请No，10/614,731中披露的方法，这些方法通过参考整体并入这里。在一个实施例中，过成型的预成型坯优选利用美国专利No.6,312,641和PCT公开WO 99/20462，WO00/62998，和WO 01/40618中详细描述的方法制造。在通过过成型工艺制造预成型坯的实施例中，过成型工艺允许高度的处理柔性，以考虑结构强度，多层薄膜的精确控制，以及无溢出容器。In one embodiment, preforms suitable for blow molding into flexible bags can be prepared by conventional methods well known to those skilled in the art, including but not limited to overmolding, co-injection, and injection-over-injection methods. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,352,426 filed April 21, 1999, U.S. Patent No. 6,391,408 filed October 19, 1998, U.S. Patent No. 6,312,641 filed October 17, 1997, March 4, 2002 U.S. Patent Application No. 10/090,471 filed on , PCT Publication WO 03/080731 corresponding to U.S. Patent Application No. 10/395,899 filed on March 21, 2003, and U.S. Patent Application No. , 10/614,731, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In one embodiment, the overformed preform is preferably manufactured using the methods detailed in US Patent No. 6,312,641 and PCT Publications WO 99/20462, WO 00/62998, and WO 01/40618. In embodiments where the preform is manufactured by an overforming process, the overforming process allows for a high degree of processing flexibility to allow for structural strength, precise control of the multilayer film, and spill-free containers.

在一个实施例中，具有充分刚性用于自站立存储饮料的柔性多层袋包括(a)第一内层，第一内层包括选自PET或聚丙烯的材料，(b)第二外层，第二外层包括聚烯烃，聚苯乙烯，或聚氨酯薄膜，涂层或泡沫结构，以及(c)合适的瓶密封件，或推拉密封件，或“无溢出”附件密封件，所述袋连同颈部终饰利用预成型坯通过适当的吹塑工艺制造，并且在合适的瓶填充线上填充。In one embodiment, a flexible multi-layer pouch having sufficient rigidity for self-standing beverage storage comprises (a) a first inner layer comprising a material selected from PET or polypropylene, (b) a second outer layer , a second outer layer comprising a polyolefin, polystyrene, or polyurethane film, coating, or foam structure, and (c) a suitable bottle seal, or push-pull seal, or "no-spill" accessory seal, the bag Together with the neck finish it is manufactured from a preform by a suitable blow molding process and filled on a suitable bottle filling line.

3.装饰3. Decoration

在一个实施例中，柔性袋被进一步修饰，装饰，和/或插入刚性外部容器例如盒子中。在优选实施例中，刚性外部容器包括挂面纸板或成型纤维。在一个实施例中，制造放置在外部容器中的袋可以以减轻的重量制造，因为支撑将由外部容器提供。例如，具有38mm颈部终饰的16盎斯PET的果汁瓶可具有30克的总重量以作为瓶子提供用于产品处理，运输和存储的必要的支撑/结构。然而，类似容量的袋/衬可以以降低重量的预成型坯(例如，大约20克)吹制，因为自支撑容器特性由外部容器提供给袋/衬。在一个实施例中，袋/衬也可以形成为当填充的袋/衬落入盒子/容器中时空气容易排出。In one embodiment, the flexible bag is further modified, decorated, and/or inserted into a rigid outer container such as a box. In a preferred embodiment, the rigid outer container comprises linerboard or formed fiber. In one embodiment, making the bag to be placed in the outer container can be made with reduced weight since the support will be provided by the outer container. For example, a juice bottle of 16 oz PET with a 38mm neck finish may have a total weight of 30 grams to provide the necessary support/structure for the bottle to handle, transport and store as a bottle. However, a bag/liner of similar capacity can be blown from a reduced weight preform (eg, about 20 grams) because the self-supporting container properties are provided to the bag/liner by the outer container. In one embodiment, the bag/liner can also be formed so that air can escape easily when the filled bag/liner is dropped into the box/container.

在一个实施例中，外部纸板盒可以包括预处理或未处理材料。优选方式是外部纸板盒呈现一个或多个下面的特性：高湿强度，结构强度，和/或拒水性。在一个实施例中，这些特性可以由外部纸板盒的聚合物浸渍或涂层实现。在一个实施例中，用聚羟基氨基醚或PET浸渍或涂层可以提供一个或多个期望的特性，以及提供可再循环容器。(见WO 01/46523，其整个披露内容通过该参考并入这里)在另一实施例中，具有铰链的成型纤维物品可以被利用，同样以处理的形式或非处理的形式，以增强物理特性或外观(图形)。一定实施例的袋可以由预制的成型纤维结构封装，成型纤维的底部通过铰链连接到顶部，并且两个件在颈部终饰下粘接在一起。在另一实施例中，热收缩标签可以应用在成型纤维结构上以赋予一个或多个下面的特性：图形、强度、和/或防水特性。In one embodiment, the outer carton may include pre-treated or untreated material. It is preferred that the outer carton exhibit one or more of the following properties: high wet strength, structural strength, and/or water repellency. In one embodiment, these properties may be achieved by polymer impregnation or coating of the outer carton. In one embodiment, impregnating or coating with polyhydroxyaminoether or PET can provide one or more desirable properties, as well as provide a recyclable container. (see WO 01/46523, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by this reference) In another embodiment, shaped fibrous articles with hinges may be utilized, again in treated or non-treated form, to enhance physical properties or appearance (graphics). The bag of certain embodiments may be enclosed by a prefabricated formed fiber structure with the bottom of the formed fiber hinged to the top and the two pieces bonded together under the neck finish. In another embodiment, a heat shrink label may be applied to the formed fiber structure to impart one or more of the following properties: graphics, strength, and/or water resistance.

优选的外部纸板盒/盒子可以由各种纸浆或纸产品构造，而不必关心直接的食物接触。在其它实施例中，可以根据需要使用成型纤维结构，旧瓦楞纸板，未漂白或漂白纸浆挂面纸板以提供瓶子不可能实现的奇异的设计和形状。优选实施例的涂层或多层层叠结构可以设计用于物理强度或外观而不必关心直接的食物接触问题。并入像Kymene的产品、含苯氧基的产品或喷涂PET乳剂可以给与成型纤维结构结构强度和拒水性。这种柔性在以最低成本和优化的外观提供功能性包装方面提供了最佳经济效果。The preferred outer carton/box can be constructed from various pulp or paper products without concern for direct food contact. In other embodiments, formed fiber structures, old corrugated cardboard, unbleached or bleached pulp linerboard may be used as desired to provide exotic designs and shapes not possible with bottles. Coatings or multi-layer laminates of preferred embodiments can be designed for physical strength or appearance without direct food contact concerns. Incorporation into products like Kymene, phenoxy-containing products or spray-on PET emulsions can give structural strength and water repellency to formed fibers. This flexibility provides the best economics in delivering functional packaging at the lowest cost and optimized appearance.

在一个实施例中，外部容器的外观和强度可以由如授予Overcash等的美国专利No.5,603,996，No.5,981,011，No.6，132,822，No.6,187,389和No.6,193,831中教导的薄膜移膜涂层增强。适当配制和涂覆的移膜涂层可以为完全再循环的容器提供图像接收、高光泽，防渗涂层表面。这些类型的涂层可以提供金属化的外观，而保持纸板外部容器的完全可再循环性。此外，全息图或其它安全特征可以包括在薄膜移膜涂层中，以有助于防止伪造或提供篡改的证据。In one embodiment, the appearance and strength of the outer container may be provided by a thin film transfer coating as taught in U.S. Pat. enhanced. Properly formulated and applied film transfer coatings can provide an image receptive, high gloss, barrier coating surface for fully recyclable containers. These types of coatings can provide a metallic look while maintaining the full recyclability of the cardboard outer container. Additionally, holograms or other security features may be included in the thin film transfer coating to help prevent counterfeiting or provide evidence of tampering.

包装可以设计为可完全再循环，而不像当前的塑料或纸三角形顶部的纸板盒。这些包装可以通过简单地将袋从纸板盒拉出和将塑料衬与纸板盒/盒子分离以用于其各自的再循环流而完全再循环。Packaging can be designed to be fully recyclable, unlike current plastic or paper triangle-topped cardboard boxes. These packages can be fully recycled by simply pulling the pouch from the carton and separating the plastic liner from the carton/box for their respective recycling streams.

B.修改的生产线B. Modified production line

如上所述，在优选实施例中，连续的生产线从吹塑成柔性袋的预成型坯开始，袋然后用期望的产品填充，并封闭，以用于最终使用。在一个实施例中，填充的袋然后进一步被修饰、装饰、和/或插入刚性外部容器例如盒子中。在其它实施例中，袋在填充前放入刚性外部容器内。在优选实施例中，生产线是诸如用于制造和填充软饮料的、通常用于处理刚性容器的类型的修改版。优选实施例的生产线修改为贯穿整个生产线处理柔性袋的颈部。优选的填充工艺是用于填充PET瓶的本领域熟知的类型的工艺。这种系统包括但不限于防腐、热填充或冷冻填充线。As noted above, in a preferred embodiment, the continuous production line begins with a preform that is blown into a flexible bag, which is then filled with the desired product and closed for end use. In one embodiment, the filled pouch is then further trimmed, decorated, and/or inserted into a rigid outer container, such as a box. In other embodiments, the bag is placed within a rigid outer container prior to filling. In a preferred embodiment, the production line is a modified version of the type normally used to handle rigid containers, such as for making and filling soft drinks. The production line of the preferred embodiment is modified to process the necks of flexible bags throughout the entire production line. The preferred filling process is of the type well known in the art for filling PET bottles. Such systems include but are not limited to anticorrosion, hot fill or freeze fill lines.

如上所述，优选实施例的生产线是通常用于处理刚性容器的类型的修改版。在传统的填充线中，一旦预成型坯被吹成刚性容器或瓶，容器/瓶就放到操作台输送机或强制空气输送机上，其中容器/瓶彼此直接接触。这种类型的输送机适合于刚性容器/瓶，因为它们是自支撑的。然而，倘若是的柔性袋的特性，这种类型的处理是不可行的，尤其如果要保持增加的生产速度。因此，为了处理优选实施例的柔性袋，为了贯穿生产工艺通过颈部处理预成型坯/袋，传统的生产线被修改。该修改允许在类似于用于刚性容器的那些的系统上高速生产和填充柔性袋。有利的是，修改处理系统的优选实施例可以与传统的吹塑模具和填充系统一起使用。在优选实施例中，合适的填充系统是本领域技术人员所熟知的并且可以是KronesAG(德国)或Sidel(Le Havre，法国)生产的类型的。例如，来自Krones的Mecafihl VKPPET是适合用于优选实施例中的填充机。优选实施例的合适的吹塑机是本领域技术人员熟知的并且可是Sig Corpoplast(德国)生产的类型的。例如，在优选实施例中可利用来自Sig Corpoplast的BLOMAX系列III吹塑机。此外，传统生产线的中心线间隔在实施例中保持相同。As noted above, the production line of the preferred embodiment is a modified version of the type normally used to process rigid containers. In a traditional filling line, once the preforms are blown into rigid containers or bottles, the containers/bottles are placed on a table conveyor or forced air conveyor where the containers/bottles are in direct contact with each other. This type of conveyor is suitable for rigid containers/bottles as they are self-supporting. However, given the nature of flexible bags, this type of processing is not feasible, especially if increased production speeds are to be maintained. Therefore, to handle the flexible bag of the preferred embodiment, the conventional production line is modified for handling the preform/bag through the neck throughout the production process. This modification allows high speed production and filling of flexible bags on systems similar to those used for rigid containers. Advantageously, the preferred embodiment of the modified handling system can be used with conventional blow molding and filling systems. In a preferred embodiment, suitable filling systems are well known to those skilled in the art and may be of the type produced by Krones AG (Germany) or Sidel (Le Havre, France). For example, the Mecafihl VKPPET from Krones is a suitable filling machine for use in the preferred embodiment. Suitable blow molding machines for the preferred embodiments are well known to those skilled in the art and may be of the type produced by Sig Corpoplast (Germany). For example, a BLOMAX(R) Series III blow molding machine from Sig Corpoplast may be utilized in a preferred embodiment. Furthermore, the centerline spacing of conventional production lines remains the same in the embodiments.

在优选实施例中，传统生产线的处理系统被修改，以贯穿制造和填充工艺处理作为单独单元的柔性袋的颈部。优选实施例的袋优选由正传送系统传送通过生产线，正传送系统是每次在生产线中在具体地点有意握住袋的系统，例如，传送系统可以在每一个传送地点在颈部终饰的偷窃带(pilferband)握住袋。在其它实施例中，传送系统在颈部柱体或支撑环握住袋。本领域技术人员将认识到刚性颈部上的许多点提供合适的传送点。优选实施例的合适的传送机构包括但不限于弹簧加载叉，从袋内部抓握的活塞，以及颈部终饰顶部之上的气缸。其它合适的传送机构是本领域技术人员熟知的。合适的处理系统可以从Procomac Packaging(Collecchio(PARMA)意大利)获得。例如，在一个实施例中，可以使用来自Procomac的CONVAIR2000处理系统。In a preferred embodiment, the handling system of a conventional production line is modified to handle the neck of the flexible bag as a single unit throughout the manufacturing and filling process. Bags of preferred embodiments are preferably conveyed through the production line by a positive conveying system, which is a system in which the bag is intentionally held at a specific point each time in the production line, for example, the conveying system may have a steal at the neck finish at each conveying location. Belt (pilferband) to hold the bag. In other embodiments, the delivery system holds the bag at a neck cylinder or support ring. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many points on the rigid neck provide suitable delivery points. Suitable delivery mechanisms for the preferred embodiment include, but are not limited to, spring loaded forks, pistons grasped from inside the bag, and air cylinders above the top of the neck finish. Other suitable delivery mechanisms are well known to those skilled in the art. Suitable handling systems are available from Procomac Packaging (Collecchio (PARMA) Italy). For example, in one embodiment, the CONVAIR2000 processing system from Procomac can be used.

图1描述了优选生产线的一个实施例。连接系统中的各站点的处理系统由连接各种元件的成对的平行线指示。在优选的生产线中，预成型坯10进入生产线，进入吹塑系统，在该处它随后被吹塑20成柔性袋。袋然后任选地在前进到填充系统之前被漂洗30。一旦在填充系统中，袋由期望的产品填充40并且被封盖(包覆顶端)50。填充的袋可以任选地被干燥60。袋可以在从颈部处理系统80释放之前被修饰、装饰和/或放入刚性外部容器70中。作为选择，修饰，装饰，和/或放入外部容器中可以在生产线中的一个或多个其它位置进行，或可以在颈部从系统释放之后进行。然后袋可以被送到箱或码堆机90，用于销售。其它元件可以任选地包括在该系统中。Figure 1 depicts one embodiment of a preferred production line. The processing systems connecting the various stations in the system are indicated by pairs of parallel lines connecting the various elements. In a preferred production line, the preform 10 enters the production line into a blow molding system where it is subsequently blow molded 20 into a flexible bag. The bags are then optionally rinsed 30 before proceeding to the filling system. Once in the filling system, the bag is filled 40 with the desired product and capped (covered top) 50 . The filled bag can optionally be dried 60 . The bag may be trimmed, decorated and/or placed in the rigid outer container 70 prior to release from the neck disposal system 80 . Alternatively, trimming, decorating, and/or placing into the outer container may occur at one or more other locations in the production line, or may occur after the neck is released from the system. The bag can then be sent to a bin or stacker 90 for sale. Other elements may optionally be included in the system.

图2描述了优选预成型坯100的截面的一个实施例。预成型坯100包括颈部终饰110和主体部分120.颈部终饰110在开口130开始到预成型坯100的内部并且延伸到支撑环140和包括支撑环140。在示出的实施例中，颈部终饰110进一步的特征在于存在螺纹150，螺纹150提供了紧固用于由预成型坯100生产的瓶子的盖子的方式。在其它实施例中，颈部终饰110可以是非螺纹的和/或以其它方式适合接收密封件。正在颈部终饰110之下的是颈部圆筒190。颈部终饰与颈部圆筒一起形成这里所谓的颈部，并且包括预成型坯的一部分，处理系统优选通过所述一部分处理预成型坯。主体部分120是细长的并且优选是从颈部圆筒190向下延伸，通过过度180并且在圆端盖160中达到极点的圆筒形结构。FIG. 2 depicts one embodiment of a cross-section of apreferred preform 100 . Thepreform 100 includes aneck finish 110 and abody portion 120 . Theneck finish 110 begins at anopening 130 into the interior of thepreform 100 and extends to and includes asupport ring 140 . In the illustrated embodiment,neck finish 110 is further characterized by the presence ofthreads 150 that provide a means of fastening caps for bottles produced frompreform 100 . In other embodiments,neck finish 110 may be non-threaded and/or otherwise adapted to receive a seal. Beneath theneck finish 110 is a neck cylinder 190 . The neck finish together with the neck cylinder forms what is referred to herein as the neck, and comprises a portion of the preform through which the handling system preferably processes the preform. Themain body portion 120 is elongate and is preferably a cylindrical structure extending downwardly from a neck cylinder 190 , through atransition 180 and culminating in around end cap 160 .

在优选的袋中，袋的壁厚比标准容器或瓶子薄，这允许在吹塑后较短的冷却时间，由此增加了生产速度，例如，在适于吹塑瓶子/容器的条件下，每一个吹塑模具的每个模腔大约生产1500个容器。由于降低了冷却时间，在优选的柔性袋实施例中这可以增加到每一个模腔大约2000或更多个容器，在优选实施例中，柔性袋侧壁的平均厚度从大约0.003到大约0.010英寸(大约0.0076到大约0.025厘米)。这种较短的冷却时间结合刚性填充线的速度允许生产速度达到每小时50,000到70,000个袋的优选实施例。In preferred bags, the wall thickness of the bag is thinner than standard containers or bottles, which allows shorter cooling times after blow molding, thereby increasing production speed, for example, under conditions suitable for blow molding bottles/containers, Approximately 1500 containers are produced per cavity of each blow mold. This can increase to about 2000 or more containers per mold cavity in preferred flexible bag embodiments due to reduced cooling time, and in preferred embodiments, the average thickness of the flexible bag sidewalls is from about 0.003 to about 0.010 inches (about 0.0076 to about 0.025 cm). This short cooling time combined with the speed of the rigid fill line allows production speeds of 50,000 to 70,000 bags per hour for the preferred embodiment.

上述各种方法和技术提供了许多提供衬和包括这种衬的容器的方式。当然，可以理解，根据所述的任何特定实施例，不必可以实现所述的所有目的或优点。因此，例如本领域技术人员将认识到可以以如这里教导的实现或最大化一个优点或一组优点的方式构造装置和/或执行方法，而不必如这里所教导或启示实现其它目的或优点。The various methods and techniques described above provide many ways of providing liners and containers including such liners. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all objects or advantages described may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment described. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that an apparatus can be constructed and/or a method performed in a manner that achieves or maximizes an advantage or group of advantages as taught herein, but not necessarily to achieve other objectives or advantages as taught or suggested herein.

此外，本领域技术人员将认识到由不同实施例的各种特征的可交换性。类似地，上述各种特征和步骤，以及用于每一个这种特征或步骤的其它已知等同物可以由本领域普通技术人员混合和相配，以根据上述原理进行各种方法。Furthermore, those skilled in the art will recognize the interchangeability of various features from different embodiments. Similarly, the various features and steps described above, as well as other known equivalents for each such feature or step, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in the art to perform various methods in accordance with the principles described above.

尽管在一定的实施例和例子的上下文中披露了本发明，本领域技术人员可以理解，被发明延伸超过具体披露的实施例到其它可选择的实施例和/或其使用和明显的修改和等同物。因此，本发明不意欲由具体优选实施例的披露内容限制。Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses thereof and obvious modifications and equivalents thing. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited by the disclosure of specific preferred embodiments.