US20130193020A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20130193020A1
Application number: US13/708,514
Authority: US
Inventors: Julie Corbett; Romeo Graham; Robert Watters; Michael Sirois
Original assignee: ECOLOGIC
Current assignee: ECOLOGIC
Priority date: 2011-12-09
Filing date: 2012-12-07
Publication date: 2013-08-01

Abstract

An environmentally efficient packaging/delivery system that is cost effective, carbon effective and readily recyclable while being very usable for dispensing pourable materials (primarily dairy and juice) is disclosed. The system leverages light-weight flexible refill pouches with re-sealable closures that are securely installed in re-usable carafes in the home. Single-use packaging is reduced since light-weight flexibles are used as distribution and retail packaging, and a durable carafe is used repeatedly in the home.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application No. 61/569,032, filed Dec. 9, 2011.

BACKGROUND

A problem with current dairy and juice packaging is that virtually all of the materials associated with distribution, retailing, and use are single-use, in that the entire consumer purchased container is disposed of in either recycling or trash (with the exception of returnable dairy crates & pallets, and glass dairy bottles in limited use in some areas). There is a significant amount of monetary resources committed to a full featured container. This is includes the necessary materials to fulfill both the structural/mechanical and the content preservation roles.

Current options in many areas are blow-molded plastic (HDPE or PET, PP) bottles, laminated paperboard packages from TetraPak, (TetraBrik, TetraTop, etc.), SIG, EloPak, gable top cartons etc. While most options are technically recyclable, there is wide variety in access to recycling facilities for consumers globally which reduces the actual recyclability of the packages. Laminated packages are often of very dis-similar materials and excessively complex, or require high energy use to separate into more usable single material streams.

While the CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) industry is aggressively pursuing sustainability initiatives, more can be done to reduce the amount of virgin material used in single-use packaging, and in un-recyclable packages. CPGs are light-weighting packaging and products across the board. Even for the packaging materials that are recyclable however, many are not recycled, because there is not equal access to recycling facilities in every municipality.

SUMMARY

Disclosed is an environmentally efficient packaging/delivery system that is cost effective, carbon effective and readily recyclable while being very usable for dispensing pourable materials (for example dairy and juice) in consumers' homes. The system leverages light-weight flexible refill pouches with reseal-able closures that are securely installed in re-usable carafes. Single-use packaging is reduced as light-weight flexibles are used as distribution and retail packaging, and a durable carafe is used repeatedly.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 illustrates one of the many embodiments of a carafe;

FIG. 2 illustrates a historic carafe and pouch;

FIG. 3aillustrates a pouch connecting to a carafe with a hinged lid;

FIG. 3billustrates a pouch connecting to a carafe with a snap fit lid;

FIG. 3cillustrates a pouch connecting to a carafe with a hinged lid;

FIG. 4aillustrates the nesting ability of the carafes from a first view;

FIG. 4billustrates the nesting ability of the carafes from a second view;

FIG. 5 illustrates a window to see how much pourable material is in the pouch;

FIG. 6aillustrates an embodiment of a pouch being placed into a carafe;

FIG. 6billustrate an embodiment of a pouch attached to a carafe ofFIG. 6a;

FIG. 7aillustrate a carafe with a closing receiving feature in an open position;

FIG. 7billustrates the carafe ofFIG. 7awith a closing receiving feature in a closing position

FIG. 7cillustrates the carafe ofFIG. 7awith a closing receiving feature in a closed position;

FIG. 8 illustrates a carafe with a closing receiving feature;

FIG. 9aillustrate another embodiment of a pouch with a fitment;

FIG. 9billustrates another embodiment of a carafe with a complementary receiving feature to the fitment ofFIG. 9a;

FIG.10 illustrates an alternative receiving feature and a handle;

FIG. 11 illustrates another embodiment of the receiving feature;

FIG.12[a] illustrates another embodiment of the receiving feature;

FIG. 12billustrates the receiving feature ofFIG. 12areceiving a fitment;

FIG. 13aillustrate another embodiment of a carafe and pouch where the carafe is open;

FIG. 13billustrates the carafe ofFIG. 13bbeing closed around a pouch;

FIG. 14aillustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch where the pouch is placed in a study carafe;

FIG. 14billustrates the pouch inside the carafe ofFIG. 14a;

FIG. 14cillustrates a strengthening band as a receiving feature that is placed around the carafe ofFIG. 14aand the pouch;

FIG.15aillustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch with a removable receiving feature that connects around a side of the carafe;

FIG. 15billustrates a separate receiving feature that snaps around the carafe ofFIG. 15aand the pouch;

FIG. 15cillustrates a separate receiving feature in communication with the carafe ofFIG. 15a;

FIG. 16aillustrate another embodiment of a carafe and pouch which has a sliding receiving feature in an open position;

FIG. 16billustrates the carafe ofFIG. 16awith the sliding receiving feature in the closed position;

FIG. 16cillustrates the carafe ofFIG. 16awith the sliding receiving feature locking in a fitment of a carafe;

FIG. 17aillustrate an additional embodiment of a carafe and pouch with a sliding receiving feature and a sliding fitment;

FIG. 17ba cutaway view of the pouch fitting into the receiving area of the carafe ofFIG. 17a;

FIG. 17cillustrates the carafe and the receiving feature ofFIG. 17a;

FIG. 17dillustrates the carafe and the receiving feature ofFIG. 17awith a cap being removed and a seal cap being removed;

FIG. 18aillustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch using a retention notch to control the pouch;

FIG. 18billustrates the pouch with the retention feature that communicates with the carafe ofFIG. 18a;

FIG. 18cillustrates the pouch with the retention feature that communicates with the carafe ofFIG. 18aand the spout at an angle;

FIG. 19aillustrates another embodiment of pouch with retention notches;

FIG. 19billustrates the carafe adapted to receive the pouch ofFIG. 19a;

FIG. 20aillustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch with a pouch holder with the pouch being placed in the pouch holder;

FIG. 20billustrates the pouch inside the pouch holder of the carafe ofFIG. 20a;

FIG. 21aillustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch with a pouch holder with the pouch holder in an open position;

FIG. 21billustrates the pouch being placed inside the pouch holder of the carafe ofFIG. 21a

FIG. 22aillustrates a carafe with a control notch from a first view;

FIG. 22billustrates the carafe ofFIG. 22awith a control notch from a second view;

FIG. 23 illustrates another embodiment of a carafe with a lid and a pouch;

FIG. 24aillustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch with a pouch holder;

FIG. 24billustrates the pouch inside the pouch holder of the carafe ofFIG. 24a;

FIG. 25 illustrates another embodiment of a carafe ofFIG. 24awith the pouch in place;

FIG. 26 illustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch;

FIG. 27aillustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch from a first perspective;

FIG. 27billustrates the carafe and pouch ofFIG. 27afrom an additional perspective;

FIG. 27cillustrates the carafe and pouch ofFIG. 27afrom yet an additional perspective;

FIG. 28 illustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch;

FIG. 29 illustrates a fitment;

FIG. 30 illustrates a fitment and a receiving feature;

FIG. 31 illustrates a fitment and a receiving feature;

FIG. 32 illustrates a pourable material holding vessel and a detachable handle;

FIG. 33 illustrates a pourable material holding vessel and a detachable handle attached at an attachment point;

FIG. 34aillustrates a pourable material holding vessel and a detachable handle with the handle being attached at one point;

FIG. 34billustrates the pourable material holding vessel ofFIG. 34aand the detachable handle with the handle being snapped into attachment at a second point;

FIG. 34cillustrates the pourable material holding vessel ofFIG. 34aand the detachable handle with the handle snapped into place at a second point;

FIG. 35aillustrates a pourable material holding vessel and a detachable handle from a first perspective;

FIG. 35billustrates the pourable material holding vessel ofFIG. 35aand the detachable handle from a second perspective;

FIG. 36 illustrates one embodiment of the pouches on display;

FIG. 37 illustrates another embodiment of pouches on display;

FIG. 38 illustrates another embodiment of pouches on display;

FIG. 39 illustrates an embodiment of pouches being shipped;

FIG. 40aillustrates another embodiment of a carafe and pouch with a top cover being attached; and

FIG. 40billustrates the embodiment ofFIG. 40awith the top cover attached.

SPECIFICATION

Although the following text sets forth a detailed description of numerous different embodiments, it should be understood that the legal scope of the description is defined by the words of the claims set forth at the end of this patent. The detailed description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment since describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible. Numerous alternative embodiments could be implemented, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims.

It should also be understood that, unless a term is expressly defined in this patent using the sentence “As used herein, the term ‘______’ is hereby defined to mean . . . ” or a similar sentence, there is no intent to limit the meaning of that term, either expressly or by implication, beyond its plain or ordinary meaning, and such term should not be interpreted to be limited in scope based on any statement made in any section of this patent (other than the language of the claims). To the extent that any term recited in the claims at the end of this patent is referred to in this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning, that is done for sake of clarity only so as to not confuse the reader, and it is not intended that such claim term by limited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally, unless a claim element is defined by reciting the word “means” and a function without the recital of any structure, it is not intended that the scope of any claim element be interpreted based on the application of 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph.

It is clear that consumers are supporting the environmental initiatives where these options are generally cost competitive while still offering a level of product functionality that remains high and meets expectations. FTC, SPC, and other regulatory bodies are beginning to stipulate that package labeling clearly communicates the TRUE recyclability of the package's materials in the region where it is used. In addition, significant retailer initiatives are underway to minimize packaging materials or simplify package so that there are a greater number of good quality, end of life options for materials reuse.

An approach to reduce the amount of single-use packaging in dairy products is to increase the proportion of reusable components relative to single-use components. It is critical to address this opportunity through consideration of a system that reaches from producers though distributors & retailers to consumer's homes and through to participation in recycling programs and re-processing of waste materials.

There are several functions of a package for dairy products. First and foremost, it must ensure product safety through the stated shelf life. To do this, it has a barrier component, a closure component, and a structural component. In the laminate paperboard structures such as Tetra packages, the barrier and structural component are laminated to one another into a single-walled, paper-based structure. In a blow molded bottle, the functions of structure and barrier are performed by a single-walled structure. There is a problem with this approach, as barrier properties and structural integrity are derived from different types of materials. When materials are comingled or laminated, they are more difficult to recycle.

The describedholding system100 separates the functions of barrier from the function of structure. Since the pouch (barrier)120 is not required to provide structural characteristics, it can be thinner, and use less virgin material to produce. In many countries, a durable,reusable carafe110 is paired with a single-use refill pouch.120. Thepouch120 is purchased on the usual high frequency, repeat basis. Thecarafe110 stays at the point of use such as the home, office or restaurant and initially is either purchased by the user or is given to the user free as a promotional item.FIG. 2 may illustrate a sample system. There are several variations on the system, for example and not limitation:

Thepouch120 is a simple pillow-pouch (VFFS, etc.) with nofitment140 or spout. The corner is removed with scissors and it is not possible to re-close thepouch120 between uses; or

Thecarafe110 could be a very simple open-top jug or a complex, multi-part jug.

Acarafe110 andpouch120 system scores very high on sustainability rankings. Significant contributing features include light weighting of single-use items due to a reusable structural component. As a result there is a reduction of energy inputs on the manufacturing side. With high product to packaging ratio, the distribution system energy costs are expended on moving and merchandizing product.

There are shortcomings inherent with the current pouch and carafe system that contribute to its limited consumer acceptance. First, there is a need for a cutting device to open the pouch. If the cutting device is absent, there is a barrier to entry. In addition, there is no way to close the cut opening. Once the pouch is open, it stays open as there is no sealing or closing mechanism. The size of the corner cut has a significant effect on the actual pouring characteristics. This can range from slower or faster than desired. The cut also may be a rough cut and this can result in an unpredictable stream of exiting liquid. Errors lead to spills, waste and a less than satisfactory user experience. In addition, the opened pouch may be unstable at the upper end and may shift during the pouring process. It is not uncommon for the opening to shift during pouring as the user tilts the carafe and the content load then shift to the orifice end of the pouch.

Shortcomings with other types of systems that have sought to improve upon the carafe and pouch system have resulted in systems that have additional problems. Jugit is an example and it is complex, finicky, material-intensive, requires cleaning, has loose parts and requires assembly on-shelf or in the user's home or other space.

There are somesystems100 where thepouch120 is dropped into a jug with a piercing member in the bottom, and thepouch120 opens, releasing the contents into the jug. Thepouch120 is removed, and the milk is dispensed from the jug. The down sides are that the jug requires cleaning, emptying the pouch is potentially messy and keeping the contents “clean” is a challenge. Even existing bottles also have shortcomings. Due to the single use nature and the desire to minimize materials and overall shipping volume to reduce cost, handles on typical HDPE milk jugs are often undersized. This, in combination with the opening size, can result in sloshing and sudden dispensation of liquids.

Thecarafe system100 contemplated herein includes acarafe110 or container with integrally molded receiving features130 for afitment140 on apouch120. Thecarafe110 nests for efficient shipping and storage prior to sale to a customer. Thecarafe110 may be made from injection-molded plastic, as an example and not limitation, the plastic could be PP, HDPE, ABS, etc. Of course other manufacturing methods and materials are possible and are contemplated.

FIG. 1 may illustrate a sample pourablematerial holding apparatus100 which also is referred to as acarafe system100. The word “carafe” is not meant to be limiting in that carafes may have open tops and certain known shapes but the word “carafe” is used to present the concept that an outside shell is used to support an inner liner. Theapparatus100 may include are-usable container110 or carafe. Thecarafe110 may be a durable,re-usable carafe110 for the home or institutional/commercial use and may be injection-molded plastic, molded with an open bottom to take advantage of draft angles to achieve fitment lock features in top open end of carafe. In some embodiments, a bottom part may be assembled to thecarafe110 post-molding.

Thecarafe110 may be blow molded plastic, and molded entirely closed, with spout snap-in features die-cut out of the enclosed area afforded by the blow molding process. In other embodiments, thecarafe110 could be sheet metal, ceramic, glass, or any other material well-suited to the kitchen environment. Of course, other materials are possible and are contemplated. About the only limitation on the material is that it be capable of holding a pourable material of a weight that is appropriate for the volume of the container orcarafe110. Thiscarafe110 andpouch120 system in not meant to be limited to certain materials or processes.

Thepouches120 may be produced in several volume capacities. By example and not limitation, the following volumes: 0.5 L, 0.75 L, 1.00 L, 1.3 L 1.5 L, 2.0 L etc. are possible. Thepouch120 may be lightweight and flexible and could be made from one type of plastic resin (LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, blends etc.). The lightweightflexible film pouch120 andfitment140 could both be made from the same family of resins. As an example and not limitation, thepouch120 and thefitment140 could both be made from LDPE. As another example and not limitation, thepouch120 could be made from a mostly LDPE film with barrier layers of other materials suitable for dairy packaging and with an appropriate sealing layer and thefitment140 could be made from LDPE.

Thepouches120 to be used in thecarafe110 can be made by VFFS (Vertical Form Fill and Seal) process withfitment140 installation, HFFS (Horizontal Form Fill and Seal) with fitment installation or platen forming withfitment140 installation. Thepouches120 could be pillow style or be formed into flat bottom pouches, sidewall pouches, side weld, etc. Thepouch120 film could be single material such as a Polyethylene or constructed as a laminated film structure. In addition, the film could be a co-extrusion alloy of more than one type of plastic. Film materials could include, but are not limited to, HDPE, LDPE, PP, PET, Nylon, Metallocene, LLDPE, etc.Pouches120 could be multi walled (i.e., two thin layers make each wall) but a preferred embodiment may be a single walled material.Pouches120 could also be made by a thin wall extrusion blow molding (i.e., windshield washer fluid containers) process or injection stretch blow molding (similar to PET Coke® bottles) with andintegrated fitment140. These could be layered structures or single wall structures with a range of material option.

Thepouch120 could have features in the film, formed by a combination of thermal welding or ultrasonic welding and or die-cutting, that assist with or promote the following (the features may include holes, sealed flat areas, formed loops, slits, die-cuts, calendared textures, profiled edges, etc.):

- merchandising,
- handle for picking up, carrying, inserting intocarafe110
- insertion tocarafe110,
- locking intocarafe110,
- better evacuation of beverage frompouch120 when incarafe110,
- structural integrity ofcarafe110 whenpouch120 is installed.

Thepouch120 could be a simple pillow-pouch style (essentially flat when not filled). Thepouch120 could have formed/overlapped/shaped areas to assist standing up on shelf for merchandising or storage in refrigerator in the home and thepouch120 may fully-deploy and fill the internal volume available in thecarafe110, providing friction or other mechanical means to improve retention in thecarafe110 and promote evacuation of beverage frompouch120.

Thecarafe110 may be of virtually any shape. Of course, the carafe may be designed to hold a pouch of pourable material. The carafe cannot be so thin that a pouch cannot be inserted. As illustrated inFIGS. 4aand4b, in one embodiment, the shape of thecarafe110 permits a first container to be nested inside an additional container. As an example, the opening of thecarafe110 may be wide enough to accept the base of anothercarafe110 and allow the carafes to fit inside each other for easy transport.

InFIGS. 1 and 2, thecarafe110 may be a pitcher sort of shape. In some embodiments, thecarafe110 may have alid200 that may close over thepouch120. In some embodiments, the lids may help secure thefitment140 to thecarafe110.

FIGS. 3aand3bmay illustrate someadditional holding vessel100 embodiments. InFIG. 3a, thepouch120 may be placed vertically into thecarafe110 and thelid200 may assist in keeping thepouch120 in place. InFIG. 3b, thelid3200 has a pivot point which creates a hinge like action for thelid200 as it close down onto thecarafe100 and holds thepouch120 in place.

Thecarafe110 may have a window500 (FIG. 5) that permits an estimate to be made of the level of pourable material in the pouch. The window may be molded into thecarafe110 or may be an opening in thecarafe110 itself.

The carafe may also be designed to fit into a regionally appropriate refrigerator. As an example, the door on a US refrigerator may accept a6 inch wide and12 inch tall container. Logically, the carafe may be6 inches wide and12 inches tall.

FIGS. 6aand6bmay illustrate another possible design for thecarafe110 andpouch120. Thepouch120 may be slid into thecarafe110 with thepouch fitment140 registering in a release-able manner with the receivingfeature130.FIG. 6bmay illustrate thepouch120 being release-ably connected to thecarafe110.

Thecarafe110 may include a receivingfeature130 for receiving afitment140 on a re-closeable pourablematerial containing pouch120 where the receivingfeature130 allows thefitment140 to be securely held to support thepouch120, may assist in resisting twisting of thepouch120, may bring the pouch/fitment140 in working position, compared to its natural manufacturing position/orientation/angle and may allow the release of thefitment140 if desired. The carafe's receivingfeature130 may be cylindrical in shape, arranged with its axis at some angle to the long axis of thecarafe110, so as to position thefitment140 in an optimal use angle and position. The receivingfeature130 may also position a lug on thefitment140, for the purpose of preventing rotation during capping/uncapping. The receivingfeature130 may have an open end slightly smaller than the maximum outside diameter of the fitment140 (“E” dimension). Due to the flexible and compliant nature of thefitment140 material and thecarafe material110, this restricted opening allows insertion of thefitment140, but provides resistance to removal offitment140. The receivingfeature130 may be integrated to anycarafe110 design/material. A non restricted opening is also contemplated where the fitment inserts easily and is release-ably retained to the carafe with and additional feature such and a snap, a sliding lock, a threaded collar, etc.

The receivingfeature130 may be a separate part that is purchased (by a carafe-manufacturer) and assembled to match thefitment140. Similarly, the rights to the receiving features may be purchased for manufacture or directly incorporate the features into the carafe by the carafe manufacturer. The receivingfeature130 may be produced in a manufacturing method that allows high tolerances required for proper engagement with features of apouch fitment140 and assembled to acarafe110 produced in a manufacturing method with that produces parts with lower tolerances. Of course other methods for retention of the fitment are possible and are contemplated.

Thecarafe110 could havefitment140 snap-infeatures700 that are molded in a first position and shipped in that position, efficiently nested.FIGS. 7a,7band7cmay illustrate one possible embodiment. Aflap720 withcorresponding features700 to the snap infeatures710 could be part of afoldable receiving feature130. The user may fold and snap the fitment snap-infeatures700 into the corresponding snap infeatures710, creating the receivingfeature130 in the proper location for the fitment140 (FIG. 7c). The integral snap features710 that hold the “snap-in” features700 in the second use position could be one-time snaps, i.e. the user would not be able to reverse the process. In another embodiment, thesnaps700 andcorresponding snaps710 could be releasable connected.FIG. 8 may illustrate another embodiment where asecond flap730 may also be used to full close the top of thecarafe110, further ensuring that thepouch120 will not remove itself unwillingly.

FIGS. 9aand9bmay illustrate yet another embodiment of the pourablematerial holding vessel100. The pouch120 (FIG. 9a) may have afitment140 that snaps or locks into acorresponding receiving feature130 in the carafe110 (FIG. 9b). In one embodiment, thefitment140 slides and locks using rails and slides into the receivingfeature130. In other embodiments, thefitment140 may simply fit tightly into the receivingfeature130.

FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of thecarafe110. Thecarafe110 may have a top1000 that has a receivingfeature130 built into it along with ahandle1010. Thefitment120 may fit and lock into the receivingfeature130 and thehandle1010 may be used to manipulate the pourablematerial holding vessel100.

FIGS. 11,12aand12bmay be yet another embodiment of the pourablematerial holding vessel100. InFIGS. 11,12aand12b, thefitment140 may be held in place using connecting members. For example, thefitment140 may have one or moremale members1100 and thecarafe1200 may have a corresponding number and shape offemale members1200. These female members may be created easily within the carafe tooling line of draw, if made in injection molded plastic. Themale members1100 may connect with the female members1200 (FIG. 12b) and hold thefitment140 in the desired location until the user is prepared to recycle thepouch120.

The fitment may have a cylindrical body, with a welding flange at an end and at another end, threads or other features to receive a closure. There could also be an integrally-molded closure, or an integrally-molded closure on a flexible strap. There are features (ribs, protrusions, flanges etc) for secure fit with the inside surface of the container when fitment is in use position. There is a feature to prevent rotation during capping/uncapping that fits into a receiving feature in the carafe. This could be a lug, block, rib, etc. The fitments could be made of a range of materials, including PP, LDPE, HDPE, LLDPE and they can be attached to the pouches by heat welding, ultrasonic welding, or other processes. Of course other features for facilitation of insertion and for retention of the fitment are possible and are contemplated.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of another embodiment of the pourablematerial holding device100. Thecarafe110 may have a parting line of may be two parts. The two parts may be brought together around thepouch120, thereby locking thefitment140 into the receivingfeature130. Of course, thecarafe110 may be more parts, but the complexity of thecarafe110 may make its use less desirable.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of yet another possible embodiment of the pourablematerial holding vessel100. Thepouch120 may be placed in acarafe110. Then the carafe of onematerial110 holding thepouch110 may be placed inside aband130 of the same or an alternate material that may include the receiving feature to hold thefitment140 as desired.

FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment where thereceiving feature1500 is a separate piece. In some embodiments, the receivingfeature1500 is a separate piece and in other embodiments, the receivingfeature1500 is connected to thecarafe110 in a pivoting fashion. In its open position, it may allow for a less obstructed installation of the pouch into the carafe. Thefitment140 may be locked in place using theseparate receiving feature130 and the receivingfeature130 may be connected to thecarafe110 using mechanical, physical or any other appropriate fastening system.

FIGS. 16a,16band16cillustrate another possible embodiment of the pourablematerial holding vessel100. InFIG. 16a, theretention feature130 is attached to thecarafe110 using a sliding connection. Theretention feature130 may slide closed (FIG. 16b) and thereby lock thepouch120 andfitment140 in place (FIG. 16c). Theretention feature130 may lock in place using mechanical, physical or any other appropriate closing system. Similarly,FIGS. 17a,17b,17cand17dmay illustrate another embodiment where thefitment140 slides into the receivingfeature130 on thecarafe110. The guides on thefitment140 ensure that thefitment140 is at a desire angle and is securely in position.

FIGS. 18a,18band18cillustrate another possible embodiment of the pourablematerial holding vessel100. Thecarafe110 may have aretaining point1800 that connects with acorresponding retention receiver1810 in thepouch120. As illustrated inFIGS. 18band18c,the shape of thepouch120 may be varied but theretaining point1800 andretention receiver1810 may still operate effectively.FIGS. 19aand19billustrate a variation where theretention points1800 are on the side of thecarafe110 and theretention receivers1810 are on two flaps attached to thepouch120. Of course, additional retention designs are possible and are contemplated.

FIGS. 20aand20billustrate another embodiment of the pourablematerial holding vessel100. Thefitment140 attached to thepouch120 may be angled into the receivingfeature130 and secured into position as shown inFIG. 20b.FIGS. 21aand21bmay illustrate another embodiment where the receivingfeature130 may be movable to better receive thefitment140. Once thefitment140 is secured in the receivingfeature130, the receiving feature may be moved to a locking position thereby holding theliner120 andfitment140 in place (FIG. 21b).

FIG. 22 may illustrate thecarafe110 along with theretention feature130 and acontrol notch2200. Thecontrol notch2200 may receive a fitment notch2210 (FIG. 29) that assists in securing thefitment140 and prevents the fitment from spinning when acap3100 or other closure device is screwed onto thefitment140.

FIG. 23 illustrates another embodiment of the pourablematerial holding vessel100. Thevessel100 may have alid2300 that assists in holding thepouch120 in place.FIGS. 24aand24bprovide additional detail, illustrating that the pouch may be attached to apouch holder2400 which may slip into thecarafe110, with thealignment device2410 following thealignment crease2420 in thecarafe110 to ensure that thefitment140 fits accurately in the receiving feature130 (FIG. 24b).FIG. 25 may illustrate that thecarafe110 may also have the alignment notch220 such that thefitment140 may accurately fit the receivingfeature130.

Thefitment140 may be reclose-able, such as with a flip cap or ascrew cap3100. Thefitment140 on thepouch120 may also have tamper-evident seal and a re-usable closure. Thefitment140 may have features that securely snap in to and engage with the receivingfeature130 on thecarafe110. Thefitment140 may be face mounted or edge mounted to thepouch120. Face-mounted fitments are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,237,308, 5,288,531,4,709,528, 7,076,935, 6,874,299, 6,826,892, 6,794,053, 6,237,308, 5,363,966, and U.S. Patent Application No. 20060111224, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Thefitment140 may also have features such as holes, hooks, snaps, ridges, fins, flanges, etc. for improving merchandising options, securingfitment140 tocarafe110, guidingfitment140 into correct location/position/orientation incarafe receiving feature130, providing audible feedback when thefitment140 is locked into place incarafe110, providing tactile feedback when thefitment140 is locked into place incarafe110, providing a location for hang-tag or other labeling for any purpose, creating a hangingpouch120 from features incarafe110, stabilizing the top of thepouch120 while thepouch120 rests incarafe110, providing ahang pouch120 on a shopping cart during transit from dairy case to checkout to car, etc.

In some embodiments of thefitment140 used in thecarafe110, thesame fitment140 could be designed to fit into a molded pulp shell; the resultingrigid vessel100 with polymer liner could be suitable for distribution, retailing, and dispensing of beverages or other fluid or aggregate materials for engagement to a pulp moldedbottle shell110. This could leverage tooling capital, suppliers, distribution, etc., in place for one type of package (therefill pouch120 for carafe110) for use in another type of packaging.

Thefitment140 may provide secure closure after initial opening and thefitment140 may provide medium-level of security in closure after initial opening. In addition, thefitment140 may, through color variations, communicate different products carried in the pouch120 (e.g.: blue fitment may indicate Skimmed Milk, pink fitment may mean 2% Milk, white fitment may mean 3.25% Milk, or any other designated product, according to the dairy/retailer's current color scheme). Thefitment140 may promote complete evacuation of beverage frompouch120, without undue rotation ofpackage110 and thefitment140 may prevent thepouch120 from falling out ofcarafe110 when pouring the last part of beverage out (and whencarafe110 may be upside down).

Thefitment140 may be made from a single material, may be made in a single part and may be closed with a separate closure (screw-type, snap, etc). Thefitment140 may also be in a single part including an integral tamper-evident device; and have a separate closure. The closure may be a snap-type closure, molded in a first “open” position, then moved into a second “closed” position for distribution, retailing, and use. The second “closed” position may also create the appropriate closure after the package is first opened by the user.

FIG. 26 illustrates one embodiment where thefitment140 slides down and is secured in the receivingfeature130.FIGS. 27a,27band27cillustrate the pouched120 locked into thecarafe110 from a variety of angles whileFIG. 28 illustrates a more detailed view of thefitment140 and the receivingfeature130.FIG. 40 may illustrate acarafe100 with atop cover180 where thereceiver feature130 may be located mainly or fully in thetop cover180. After the connection is made between thefitment140 and thereceiver feature130, thecover180 may be closed for use. Such an arrangement may be beneficial with keeping the morecomplex receiving feature130 in the smallerupper cover part180 and in allowing a smart cover part with thereceiver feature130 to be attached to a plurality ofdifferent carafe110 material types.

FIG. 29 illustrates one embodiment of thefitment140, along with thealignment notch2210.FIG. 30 illustrates how thealignment notch2210 may fit into the alignment notch220 in the receivingfeature140 of thecarafe110. The result of the notch is that when acap3100 is screwed onto thefitment140, thefitment140 may not spin. Alternately, a wedge shape receiving feature may accept a matching wedge shaped fitment and be both self aligning and anti-spin.FIG. 31 illustrates how thefitment140 may be locked into the receivingfeature130 and how a cap310 may fit on thefitment3100. Other shapes and detailing forfitments140 have been contemplated.

FIGS. 32-35a&35billustrate that thevessel100 may have adetachable handle1010. Referring toFIG. 33, thehandle1010 may attach at anattachment point3700 on thecarafe110.FIGS. 34a-34cillustrates that thehandle1010 may be attached at theattachment point3700 and then angled down to snap over the alignment creases2420 in thecarafe110. As a result, thehandle1010 may attach at theupper attachment point3700 and on each side by connecting to the alignment creases2420 (FIG. 35b). In other embodiments, thehandle1010 may be a strap or a long handle that connects at the upper area of thecarafe110 and into a receiving area or crease molded into the bottom of thecarafe110. Of course, other manners of attaching ahandle1010 may be possible and are contemplated.

FIGS. 36-39 illustrate the various ways in which thepouches120 may be displayed and sold. Thepouches120 may be merchandised in cardboard display boxes3500 (FIG. 39) in a dairy case. Thepouches120 may be standing up (FIG. 38), with dividers in box, lying down, loose-packed in box, etc. In this last option, the fitment is designed such that is generally smooth will ensure that fitments do not perforate pouches when loose packed.

Thepouches120 may be sold in multi-packs of 2, 3, 4 or more pouches of various capacities (e.g.: 3×1.3 L pouches). Multi-pack configurations may result in total volumes typically sold in dairy: ½ gallon, 1 gallon, 2 gallon, etc. Multi-packs may be packed in thin polymer bags and the bags may be thin LDPE. The arrangement may give the multi pouches double wall security and can immobilize fitments and keep them from abrading neighboring pouches.

The multi-packs may be secured with a strap that also functions as a carry/hang handle. Other methods of securing and merchandising multi-packs may be possible and are contemplated.FIGS. 36 and 37 may illustrate a system using are-usable carafe110, several hanging fixtures installed in a refrigerator, and single-use refill pouches120 that engage into thecarafe110 and the fixtures on the refrigerator door.

Thepouches120 may be stored hanging from the fixtures on the door, both before they are opened, and after they are opened, but before they are consumed completely. The user may store the partially-usedpouches120 in the refrigerator, and only put thepouch120 that they needed into thecarafe110 when they needed to use it. Several products may be available for purchase in the refill pouches120 (milk, juice, etc). This may save refrigerator space for storage.

The benefits of the described pourablematerial holding vessel100 are many. At a high level, less trash may be created as more of the pourable material delivery vessels will be recycled. In addition, the described embodiments may create a clean and safe device that is easy and reliable to use for transporting and dispensing pourable materials. Users will be pleased with the ease of use, reliability and re-use-ability of the describedvessel100.