Patent ID: 7146783
Filing Date: 2006-12-12
Classification: B65B

Abstract:
1. A vacuum packaging machine for evacuating and sealing the open end of a package, said vacuum packaging machine comprising: a base presenting an upper package end-supporting surface; a lid operatively coupled with the base and having a lower surface, said lid movable between an open position permitting placement of the package open end upon said base upper surface, and a closed position where said base upper surface and lid lower surface are in proximity, said base and lid cooperatively defining an evacuation chamber surrounding the package open end when said cover is in said closed position thereof; a vacuum source; an evacuation port in communication with said chamber and operatively coupled with said source in order to evacuate the package through the open end; and a sealing component proximal to said chamber and operable to seal the open end after said evacuation, said upper package end-supporting surface of said base in the area thereof bounded by said chamber presenting a readily cleanable, essentially flat surface free of concavities.