초록 ▼

A closure system for use in repetitively opening and closing an openable end of a pliable container includes first and second shape memory elements that are adapted to be attached to side walls of the pliable container adjacent the openable end thereof. Each of the first and second shape memory elem

A closure system for use in repetitively opening and closing an openable end of a pliable container includes first and second shape memory elements that are adapted to be attached to side walls of the pliable container adjacent the openable end thereof. Each of the first and second shape memory elements includes an elongated, generally concave surface portion and an opposing, generally convex surface portion. In accordance with various embodiments of the invention, the shape memory elements are provided on the container with the concave surface portions facing each other when the pliable container is in an open condition to maintain the opposing side walls in a spaced relationship in order to permit enhanced access to an interior of the container. In each embodiment, when the openable end is closed, the generally concave surface portion of one of the shape memory elements assumes a nested position with the generally convex surface portion of the other shape memory element in order to maintain the side walls in a close bearing relationship at the openable end. The shape memory elements can be constituted by various bowed members, including plastic bands, metal strips and wires which can either be fixedly or rotatably mounted to the bag. The closure system has application to various types of pliable containers, including two-sided, multi-ply and gusseted bags. A method and apparatus for producing pliable containers incorporating the closure system of the invention is also provided.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed:] [1.] A closure system on a pliable container for use in repetitively opening and sealingly closing an openable end of the pliable container comprising: first and second shape memory elements each of which assumes a bowed shape in a relaxed state so as to define an elongated, gene

[ What is claimed:] [1.] A closure system on a pliable container for use in repetitively opening and sealingly closing an openable end of the pliable container comprising: first and second shape memory elements each of which assumes a bowed shape in a relaxed state so as to define an elongated, generally concave surface portion and an opposing, generally convex surface portion, the first and second shape memory elements being attached to respective opposing side walls of the pliable container adjacent the openable end and interconnected solely through the pliable container, with the generally concave surface portions of the first and second shaped memory elements facing each other when the pliable container is in an open condition to maintain the opposing side walls in a spaced relationship to permit ready access to an interior of the pliable container and with the generally concave surface portion of the first shape memory element nesting with the generally convex surface portion of the second shape memory element when the pliable container is in a closed condition to maintain the side walls in a close bearing relationship at the openable end.