Patent Publication Number: US-2023134697-A1

Title: Multi-use, reusable, spill proof package for fluids without a removable or separable closure

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     In the year 2017, global production of plastics reached 348 million metric tons. Roughly half of annual plastic production is destined for a single-use product, including plastic drinking bottles. Humans buy about 1,000,000 plastic bottles per minute, resulting in sales of more than 480 billion plastic drinking bottles worldwide in 2016. Along with plastic drinking bottles, over half a million disposable plastic straws are used by Americans every day. Moreover, 91% of all plastic is discarded and not recycled. 
     The discarded single-use plastics, including plastic drinking bottles, caps, fitments, tear strips and labels are harmful to the environment. Not only do discarded single-use plastics fill up landfills, but they also are frequently left to flow into lakes and streams, ending up in rivers and ultimately oceans around the world. Instead of evenly dispersing in the oceans, plastic waste tends to concentrate in the northern and southern gyres, or systems of circular currents, in the oceans, such as what has become known as the “Great Pacific Garbage Patch” in the northern Pacific gyre. The region is currently estimated to have a size of at least 700,000 square kilometers (270,000 square miles — about the size of the state of Texas, or the size of France and Switzerland combined). It has been estimated that over 18,000 pieces of plastic exist within each square kilometer of the patch. Samples from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch reveal that the mass of plastic waste exceeded that of zooplankton, which is the dominant animal life in the area, and it is further estimated that by the year 2050, there will be more plastic than fish in the oceans. 
     Plastic waste, particularly in water streams and oceans such as in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, is subject to plastic photodegradation which causes plastic to degrade into small toxic plastic polymers. Over time, the plastic polymers disintegrate into smaller and smaller pieces, transforming into “microplastics,” or until the molecular level is reached. However, the majority of these polymers are not bio-based or compostable, and typically do not decompose without harming the environment. These small toxic plastic polymers (microplastics) contaminate the air, water, and soil, and are ultimately ingested by aquatic organisms including fish, thus resulting in plastic waste entering the food chain for animal and human consumption. 
     To address the problem of plastic waste, recycling has been introduced into the plastic consumption cycle. However, only a limited portion of plastic waste is sent to recycling facilities. For example, globally over 91% of plastic is not recycled, and only 23% of plastic bottles are recycled in the United States. Moreover, existing plastic bottles and fluid containers utilize multiple types of plastics for their different parts, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) for the bottle and polypropylene (PP) for the more rigid bottlecap or closure. Plastic bottles additionally often utilize different plastic or film materials wrapped around the bottle to include label information and chemical adhesives. Because each plastic material used, such as PET and PP, has distinct melting points that are significantly different from the respective other plastic materials, all of the materials must be separated from one another before being melted down for reuse. Thus, the recycling of existing plastic bottles can be economically ineffective because it entails various processes, including collecting, cleaning, and sorting the plastic waste and separately processing of each of the waste materials into materials that can be used in new products. As such, due to the time, money, and infrastructure cost of the collecting and processing, recycling is not widely available, and if available, recycling is often not mandatory. Thus, many people do not have a convenient venue for recycling or may merely choose not to recycle, or lack awareness of recycling as a waste management method. 
     Despite the many problems caused by plastic waste around the world, it is estimated that replacing plastics in packaging and consumer products with alternative materials could raise environmental costs multi-fold. Thus, rather than finding or developing materials to replace plastics, there is a critical need for innovation for the design and development of new forms of packaging and materials that use less material are more easily recyclable as compared to existing single-use plastic packaging, as well as improving, collecting and sorting and the infrastructure for increasing the recycling of growing volumes of plastic waste. 
     One solution to the above problems of plastic waste with existing plastic bottles and containers has been to package liquid products in flexible containers made from one or more layers of polymer film. In addition to reducing the amount of plastic material per container compared to existing plastic bottles, packages made from polymer films can offer additional advantages. For instance, the polymer films can be wrapped tightly around the products for eliminating void space and minimizing packaging materials required. The resulting packages are not very bulky, are easy to handle and have a lighter weight. The polymer films can sometimes be translucent or transparent, allowing a purchaser to view the contents prior to making the purchase. In addition, the polymer films can be printed with decorative graphics to make the product more attractive. 
     Although packages made from polymer films can provide various advantages, opening such packages can be quite difficult. For example, the polymer films must have sufficient seal strength to prevent against accidental rupture. Increasing the strength of the film or the seals that surround the content of the package, however, often increases the difficulty in opening the package. For example, many such packages that contain liquid or flowable substances, do not include an easy opening feature. Thus, brute force, scissors, a knife, biting with one’s teeth, or another suitable instrument need to be used in order to open the package. 
     Another disadvantage to containers made from one or more layers of polymer films is that the films are not always compatible with each other and various layers may not be easily recycled. Consequently, multilayer films can restrict easy recyclability and create solid waste generation. 
     Further, a greater need exists for packages that are not only sustainable, but also can be made, shipped and delivered with stringent hygiene requirements due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The ability to make a package from a single material that is easy to open, and without product spillage, would greatly enhance the sustainability of the package balanced with better hygiene characteristics. 
     In view of the above, those skilled in the art have attempted to improve the manner in which packages and containers are constructed and opened. For instance, PopPack LLC has made many significant and meritorious advances in the design and construction of packages and particularly in the design of techniques and methods for opening packages and containers. Examples of opening devices for packages are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,726,364 to Perell et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,938,394 to Perell, U.S. Pat. No. 7,306,371 to Perell, U.S. Pat. No. 7,644,821 to Perell, U.S. Pat. No. RE 41,273 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20080212904 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20070295766 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20070286535 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20070284375 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20070241024 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20070237431 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20070235369 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20070235357 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20060126970 to Perell, U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20040231292 to Perell, and U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 20040057638 to Perell et al. The subject matter of each of the above-referenced issued patents and published applications is fully incorporated herein by reference. 
     Another problem with such previously made polymer film containers is that it is typically difficult to dispense the fluid in a controlled manner. These containers, for instance, are opened by tearing the top off the container, tearing a corner, cutting with scissors or knives, or inserting a straw into the container. Since the packages are flexible, the containers are prone to spill their contents, especially when any type of pressure is applied to the container. Once open, and in the absence of a separate rigid pouring valve welded or glued to the container or otherwise affixed, these receptacles cannot be re-closed easily, and tend to allow the liquid to escape, and expose the liquid to air and possibly to other contaminants. The user is therefore obliged to hold the receptacle once it has been opened, since it cannot be placed on a table or other surface before it has been completely emptied, in order to avoid accidental leaks and contamination and cannot be reclosed. 
     In view of the above, the present disclosure is generally directed to an improved polymer film container that utilizes less material, less energy and less water in cleaning and more efficient production lines than a plastic bottle, e.g., a single material film formed from a single polymer, is relatively easy to open and has a built-in self-closing pour channel for dispensing fluids from the container in a controlled manner without being prone to accidental spillage. 
     SUMMARY 
     In general, the present disclosure is directed to a multi-use, reusable, spill proof package for fluids without a removable or separable closure. In one embodiment, the package includes a flexible container having an interior volume for receiving a flowable substance. The flexible container of the package defines a sealed periphery. The package further includes a breachable point located along the sealed periphery of the flexible container. The breachable point has a weaker seal than the remainder of the sealed periphery. The package further includes a fluid channel including a fluid outlet and at least one valve-like passageway. The fluid outlet is located adjacent to the breachable point, and the at least one valve-like passageway is in fluid communication with the interior volume of the flexible container. The package further includes a self-closing valve including a barrier member positioned between the fluid outlet and the interior volume of the flexible container. The at least one valve-like passageway is formed between the barrier member and the sealed periphery. Pressure applied to the flexible container causes the breachable point to breach for dispensing controlled amounts of the flowable substance from the interior volume of the container. When pressure is no longer applied, the self-closing valve inhibits further flow of the flowable substance through the fluid outlet. 
     The package of the present disclosure may hold and dispense compositions, such as fluids. A fluid can be a liquid, flowable substance or a gas. The liquid, for instance, can be free flowing and can be lightly to highly viscous. The package, for instance, can hold fluids, such as beverages, edible oils, condiments, personal care products, industrial products, automotive lubricants, health care products, liquid soaps and detergents, hair care products, sunscreen compositions, cleaning products, and the like. 
     In one embodiment, the package includes a flexible container defining an interior volume for receiving a fluid. The flexible container may be comprised of a flexible polymer film. The package further includes a fluid channel having a first end connecting the fluid outlet to the ambient and an opposite second end connecting to the interior fluid volume. The fluid channel is in communication with a fluid outlet at the first end and is connected to the interior volume of the flexible container at the second end. The flexible container additionally contains a self-closing valve of various forms and shapes. Pressure applied to the flexible pouch (such as a user-applied squeeze) opens at least one passageway between the interior volume and the fluid channel. The package also contains at least one breachable point or bubble located along or in close proximity to the outside perimeter of the flexible container. Breaching the bubble or breachable point results in fluid communication between the fluid outlet and the ambient. The breachable bubble after bursting by external pressure opens the seal. The breachable bubble and self-closing valve additionally prevents flow through the fluid outlet to the ambient. 
     The breachable bubble seal may contain a weakened portion in order to influence the breachable point or portion of the seal to the perimeter of the sealing portion. 
     In one embodiment, the self-closing valve is formed by placing a barrier member attached to the flexible container walls. The barrier member can simply be a seal of opposing layers in a specified location. The barrier member can be located adjacent to the second end of the fluid channel so that at least one valve-like passageway is formed between the second end of the fluid channel and the interior volume of the container. When the package is filled, the shape of the barrier member causes folds or pressure or distortion in the container that prevent fluid flow to the outlet or ambient through the valve-like passageway, absent external user-applied squeezing pressure. In another embodiment, the package includes two or more barrier members. In one aspect, a valve-like passageway is positioned between two barrier members that connects the fluid channel to the interior volume of the container. 
     As described above, in one embodiment, the package made in accordance with the present disclosure may include a breachable point positioned on the periphery that can be user breached for dispensing flowable substances from the package. The package can include a flexible container having an interior volume for receiving a flowable substance. The flexible container additionally defines a sealed periphery. A breachable point is located along the sealed periphery of the flexible container. The breachable point of the flexible container includes a weaker seal than the remainder of the sealed periphery. 
     The package further contains a fluid channel, which includes a fluid outlet and at least one valve-like passageway. The fluid outlet is located adjacent to or part of the breachable point, and the at least one valve-like passageway is in fluid communication with the interior volume of the flexible container. The package additionally includes a self-closing valve, which contains a barrier member positioned between the fluid outlet and the interior volume of the flexible container. The at least one valve-like passageway of the flexible container is formed between the barrier member and the sealed periphery. In this embodiment, intentional pressure such as a user-applied squeeze applied to the flexible container causes the breachable point to breach and dispense controlled amounts of the flowable substance from the interior volume of the flexible container. When pressure is no longer applied to the flexible container, the self-closing valve inhibits further flow of the flowable substance through the fluid outlet. This further flow is inhibited when the flexible container is spilled over on its side, dropped to the ground, or otherwise impacted after the breachable point to the ambient has been breached. 
     For example, the fluid channel may contain trapped air. The fluid channel can be initially free of the flowable substance and be “plump” with air or may contain residual amounts of air. In one aspect, the package is filled with the flowable substance from the bottom in order to trap air or other fluid in the fluid channel. The self-closing valve assists in keeping the fluid channel initially free of the flowable substance. A user can then breach the breachable point and dispense the substance through the fluid outlet by applying pressure to the package. For instance, the user can open the package, creating a fluid outlet, by pinching the package with a thumb and finger. 
     Also disclosed is a method for opening a package as defined by the present disclosure. The method includes applying pressure to the interior volume of the flexible package, causing the breachable point of the package to breach and thereby placing the fluid outlet in communication with the outside environment or ambient; and applying further pressure to the flexible container, causing the flowable substance contained within the interior volume to exit the flexible container through the self-closing valve, fluid channel and the fluid outlet. 
     In another embodiment, the perimeter of the flexible container can include a folded portion. The folded portion lies against an exterior surface of the flexible container and intersects with the fluid channel to block fluid flow through the channel. In one embodiment, the folded portion of the flexible container includes a folded corner of the flexible container and the folded corner forms an obtuse angle with the top edge of the flexible container. In the same embodiment, a breachable bubble is located on the folded portion extending in a direction opposite the exterior surface of the flexible container. 
     In one embodiment, unfolding the folded portion after the bubble is breached allows fluid to be dispensed from the interior volume through the self-closing valve and fluid channel when pressure is applied (such as squeezing by the user) to the flexible container. In one embodiment, the breachable bubble may have a recloseable attachment, fold, adhesive, static cling, or other means in order to close the bubble or the container after the bubble is breached. 
     In one embodiment, the flexible container includes a breachable bubble that is formed in the valve-like passageways of the fluid channel when the interior volume is filled with a fluid product. 
     In particular, the package of the present invention eliminates bottle caps, straws, nozzles, spray mechanisms, spouts and fitments typical of conventional liquid packaging, and instead enables one-handed opening and no-spill dispensing of fluid materials using one flexible monomer material. Thus, empty, used packages remain intact, without any loose or uncollected parts. The package of the present invention is suitable for on-the-go lifestyles with its easy to open, no-spill features while being accessible for those with disabilities such as vision impairment, impaired or limited hand strength, or arthritis, thus having improved convenience as compared to conventional liquid packaging, e.g., PET water bottles. In addition, unlike conventional water bottles, the package of the present invention may use less material, thus is lighter weight, and additionally does not require applied labels on the package. 
     In addition, the package of the present invention may utilize recyclable films, post-consumer recyclable films and specialty films, including bio-based, compostable polymers, enhancing both the flexibility and the sustainability of the package. The sealed polymer film package may incorporate new technologies to eliminate pathogens for each package, thereby potentially extending product shelf life of the packaged contents. The package and/or breachable bubble can further include one or more sensors, tags, electronic chips, readable codes, spectrally detectable images, scanning strips or watermarking to create “smart” packaging, thus enabling the trackability and traceability of each unique package throughout its supply chain. Thus, the package of the present invention can ensure accurate product components, ingredients, shelf life data and provide knowledge and data of the sustainability footprint of the product and package. The package material and bubble can aid in the efficiency and accuracy of package recycling, with the use of spectral and optical sorting and processing. Packages may provide sourcing data, integrated data, interoperable and aggregated data within such supply chains, including interactive consumer uses, marketing, promotions and modes, and post-consumer sorting, collection, processing and material re-uses. The breach of the bubble can enable GPS location data, time stamp, interactive data exchanges via connection to the internet of things, mobile devices, smart appliances and equipments. Such data can enable information for marketing, consumer use and/or product information or deploy or activate other proximate devices or functions. Sensors may be placed inside the bubble, embedded into the polymer film structure. Data may become dynamic when activated by sound of the “popping” of the breachable bubble or by rapid air flow, or other means. 
     Moreover, the package of the present invention provides the additional benefit of tamper evidence. The tamper evidence of the package can ensure that beverages and products are safe to consume by indicating if the package is sealed or if the package or has been opened prior. This can also prevent used, empty bottles and containers from being refilled with contaminated substances, thus assuring product authenticity. The package of the present invention also allows for a “self-closing” valve and flow channel within the package. This feature greatly minimizes pathogens and contaminants after opening and facilitates multi-use and re-use functionality. 
     Further aspects and features of the present disclosure are discussed in greater detail below. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof to one skilled in the art, is set forth more particularly in the remainder of the specification, including reference to the accompanying figures, in which: 
         FIG.  1    shows a perspective view of one embodiment of the package with a sealed periphery including a breachable bubble; 
         FIG.  2    shows a perspective view of the package of  FIG.  1    when the breachable bubble has been burst; 
         FIG.  3    shows a front view of the package of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  4    shows a front view of yet another embodiment of the package of  FIG.  1    having a generally rectangular-shaped barrier member; 
         FIG.  5    shows a front view of another embodiment of the package of  FIG.  4    having two barrier members; 
         FIG.  6    shows a front view of a package according to another embodiment of the present invention having a breachable bubble separate from the fluid channel; 
         FIG.  7    shows a front view of a package according to  FIG.  6    having a generally triangular-shaped barrier member; 
         FIG.  8 A  shows a front view of yet another embodiment of a package of the present invention having a sealing portion in a corner of the package; 
         FIG.  8 B  shows a plan view of the sealing portion of the package of  FIG.  8 A ; 
         FIG.  9 A  shows a front view of a package according to another embodiment of the present invention having a sealing portion including two breachable bubbles; 
         FIG.  9 B  shows a partial front view of a package according to another embodiment of the present invention having a sealing portion in a corner of the package and having two breachable bubbles; 
         FIGS.  9 C- 9 E  show a cross-sectional view of a method of breaching the breachable bubbles in the package of  FIG.  9 A ; 
         FIG.  10 A  shows a front view of the package of  FIG.  1    placed on a flat surface; 
         FIG.  10 B  shows a side view of the package of  FIG.  1    placed on a flat surface; 
         FIGS.  38  and  39    show another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  11    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  12    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  13    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  14    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  15    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  16    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  17    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  18    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  19    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  20    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  21    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  22    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  23    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  24    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  25    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  26    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  27    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  28    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  29    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure, 
         FIG.  30    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  31    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  32    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  33    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  34    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  35    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  36    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure; and 
         FIG.  37    shows another embodiment of a package made in accordance with the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. 
     In general, the present disclosure is directed a multi-use, reusable, spill proof package for fluids without a removable or separable closure. In accordance with the present disclosure, the package includes a breachable point located along the sealed periphery of the flexible container and a self-closing valve. A method for opening a package according to the present disclosure is also disclosed. Because of the specific arrangement of the spill proof package, the present inventor has found that the spill proof package of the present invention substantially improves upon existing fluid bottle packaging because the package can be opened easily, without removing a cap or any material and without a separate cap ring, while the self-closing valve prevents the flowable substance within the package from spilling. 
     The package, in one embodiment, can be made from one or more layers of a polymer film. The walls of the package can be flexible, and the package can be integrally formed into one-piece. In the past, such packages have been relatively difficult to open. In this regard, the present disclosure is directed to a package that is not only easy to open but that can also dispense fluids in a precise and controlled manner that prevents accidental spills. In accordance with the present disclosure, the package is a one-piece, one film-type (monomaterial) package. The package has a bubble at the top of the package that can be popped to separate the layers of film and open the package. No cap, lid, or any other material needs to be removed to open the package. The bubble may provide an audible “pop” sound once the film layers are separated due to pressure on the bubble. 
     The package also contains a self-closing valve near the fluid channel of the container. The self-closing valve prevents fluid from spilling or leaking out of the container after the container has been opened. If no pressure is provided on the container by a user, then the self-closing valve prevents the contents of the package from escaping. When the user applies pressure to the container, such as squeezing the container, a passageway of the self-closing valve is opened and liquid can be poured from the fluid outlet of the package into the user’s mouth or into a container or control-dispensed. As such, the package provides an easy to open package which can be made simply and inexpensively, which prevents unwanted spilling of its contents. The package may be used and reused multiple times after it has been opened, transforming a single use container to a multi-use container. The package also reduces product waste and loss. 
     In another embodiment, the breachable bubble can be located on a folded portion of the package, such as a folded corner of the package. When the folded portion is in a folded position, the bubble is sealed from the interior volume of the package. However, after breaching the bubble, unfolding the folded portion, and applying pressure to the container, liquid in the interior volume of the package may flow through the fluid channel and the fluid outlet. In one more embodiment, the package can include two breachable bubbles with a fold between them. 
     In another embodiment, the flexible container of includes a breachable bubble that is formed in the valve-like passageways of the fluid channel when the interior volume is filled with a fluid product. 
     In one aspect, the entire package is made from a single material or polymer. By being made from a single material or polymer, the package may be formed that is completely recyclable. In addition, the package can be recycled quickly, easily and economically without having to sort materials. 
     Referring to  FIG.  1   , reference numeral  10  generally indicates a package in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The package  10  may include a first film  11  and a second film  12 . The first film  11  and second film  12  may, in general, be flexible polymer films. In one embodiment of the present invention, the first film  11  and the second film  12  may be portions of a singular sheet of flexible polymer film. In another embodiment, the first film  11  and the second film  12  may be separate sheets of flexible polymer film. It should be understood that the package  10  can have any suitable shape depending upon various factors including the type of product contained in or to be received in the package. 
     The first film  11  and the second film  12  can be made from any suitable polymer. Polymers that may be used to form the package include, for instance, polyolefins such as polyethylene and polypropylene, polyesters, polyamides, polyvinyl chloride, polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoate, bio poly butylene succinate, polycaprolactone, polycarbonates, triglycerides, cellulose polymers, mixtures thereof, copolymers thereof, terpolymers thereof, and the like. In addition, the package can also be made from any suitable elastomeric polymer. It should be understood, however, that the first film  11  and the second film  12  are not limited to flexible polymer films but may be any suitable films. For example, the first film  11  and second film  12  may be formed from a metallized film, laminated paper, cellulose, plant-based or bio-based, biodegradable, bio compostable film or the like. 
     The first film  11  and the second film  12  can each comprise a single layer of material or can include multiple layers and can include coatings or additives. For instance, the first film  11  and the second film  12  can each include a core layer of polymeric material coated on one or both sides with other functional polymeric layers. The other functional polymeric layers may include, for instance, an oxygen barrier member layer, an ultraviolet filter layer, an anti-blocking layer, a printed layer, and the like. 
     The first film  11  and the second film  12  can each be translucent or transparent. If translucent or transparent, for instance, the contents of the package  10  can be viewed from the outside. In another embodiment, however, the first film  11  and the second film  12  can each be opaque For instance, in one embodiment, the package  10  can display various graphics that identify, for instance, the brand and the description of the product inside, or that display coupons or incorporate sensors, tags or various other indicia. In other embodiments, the first film  11  can be translucent or transparent while the second film  12  is opaque, and the first film  11  can be opaque while the second film  12  is translucent or transparent. 
     In accordance with the present disclosure, the first film  11  and the second film  12  may be sealed together to form a flexible container  14 . The first film  11  and the second film  12  may be sealed or welded together using any suitable sealing technique, such as an adhesive or polymer or nanomolecular bonding process. 
     The flexible container  14  may define an interior volume  15 , shown in  FIG.  2   , configured to receive a fluid product, e.g. a liquid. The portion of the first film  11  and the second film  12  which lies outside the perimeter of the sealed interior volume  15  may define a package periphery  80  defined by a seal  81 . In one embodiment, a product may be situated in the interior volume  15 . The product may, in some embodiments, be a beverage, such as water. In one embodiment, for example, the fluid product may include a beverage, a gel, a cream, a paste, a syrup, a honey, an oil, a sauce, a lubricant, or a grease. In some embodiments, the product may include an emulsion, such as a mayonnaise. In some embodiments, the product may include any other liquid or flowable substance. 
     As best shown in  FIGS.  1 - 5   , the package contains a fluid channel  20 . The fluid channel  20  is connected to a fluid outlet  21  at a first end and to the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14  at a second end  22 . A self-closing valve  23  is positioned at the second end  22  of the fluid channel  20  to prevent undesired spillage of the product  16 . 
     In one embodiment, the self-closing valve  23  includes a barrier member  24 , as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 5   . The barrier member may be formed by welding or gluing the first flexible film  11  and the second flexible film  12  together at a location near the second end  22  of the fluid channel  20 . The barrier member  24  may be elongated in shape and is transverse to the second end  22  of the fluid channel  20 . In one embodiment, as best seen in  FIGS.  3 - 5   , the barrier member  24  has a length greater than the width of the fluid channel  20 . Preferably the length of the barrier member  24  is only slightly longer than the width of the fluid channel  20 , such as from about 1 mm to about 10 mm longer. This creates at least one valve-like passageway  25  between the barrier member  24  and an edge of the fluid channel  20 . The barrier member  24  may allow a valve-like passageway  25  on each side of the fluid channel  20  as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 5   . Alternatively, the barrier member  24  may extend all the way to the package periphery  80  on one side, only allowing a single valve-like passageway  25  between the interior volume  15  and the fluid channel  20 . The at least one valve-like passageway  25  has a curved shape determined by the shape of the space between the barrier member  24  and the seal  80  of the container  14 . The curved shape of the passageway  25  is configured to prevent the flow of fluid through the passageway  25  unless the container  14  is squeezed to cause fluid pressure. Preferably, the barrier member  24  extends approximately perpendicular to the general direction of the fluid channel  20 . The barrier member  24  may be shaped in a way such that the sealing portion  100  of the container arches upward, as shown in  FIGS.  10 A- 10 B , in order to provide a better seal. 
     The self-closing valve  23  of package  10  of  FIGS.  1 - 2    includes one barrier member  24 . However, in at least one other embodiment such as the package  10  as illustrated in  FIG.  5   , a package  10  according to the present disclosure may include two or more barrier members. 
     The fluid channel  20  may have a width of, for example, between 5 mm and 20 mm or any range or value therebetween, preferably between 10 mm and 15 mm, such as about 12 mm. However, the fluid channel  20  may have any desirable width, depending on the application of the container  14 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS.  1 - 2   , when the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14  is filled with product, the first flexible film  11  and the second flexible film  12  are spaced apart from each other within the flexible container  14 . The separation of the first flexible film  11  and the second flexible film  12  may create folds across the at least one valve-like passageway  25 . As shown in  FIGS.  1 - 5   , fold lines  26 ,  27  and  28  are present across from the valve-like passageways on each side of the barrier member  24 . The folds extend along the axes marked by dashed lines  26 ,  27  and  28 . It should be understood, however, that the fold lines  26 ,  27 , and  28  are representative of the approximate axes of the actual folds in the self-closing valve  23 , but they may not be clearly visible from the surface of the package  10 . 
     The folds  26 ,  27 , and  28 , as well as the barrier member  24  extending across the fluid channel  20  opening cause a portion of the periphery of the package  80  including the sealing portion  100  to curve inward (arch). The arching of the zone between the folds, that includes the fluid channel  20 , has the effect of pressing the two flexible films  11  and  12  in this zone against each other, thus forming a self-closing valve  23  that blocks the flow of the liquid through the valve-like passages  25  and through the fluid channel  20 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS.  10 A- 10 B , when the package is placed on a flat surface and a vertical force is applied approximately on the large central portion of the flexible container  14  in the center of the front and back package walls, then the folds  26 ,  27 , and  28  and the arching effect of the zone between the folds that includes the fluid passage  20 , tends to become more pronounced, thus increasing the effectiveness of the self-closing valve  23 . 
     Such accentuation of the folds close to the valve-like passages  25  as well as the increase in the arching of the zone between the folds with the application of a force essentially perpendicular to the plane of the flexible walls of the package  10 , effectively prevents liquid leakages when the flexible package  10  is placed in its natural position on an essentially flat surface. Even when another object is placed on the top of the flexible package  10  or moderate pressure is applied to the center of the package  10  by a user, increasing the pressure in the interior volume  15 , the self-closing valve  23  maintains its integrity. Such a mechanism is extremely helpful in preventing accidental spillage. 
     In order to allow the flow of liquid through the valve-like passages  25  and through the fluid channel  20  and outlet  21 , it is sufficient that a user applies a certain pressure to the flexible container  14 , in particular by squeezing it, at least in part, in a direction essentially perpendicular to the plane of the barrier member  24 , thus partially opening the lips which close off the valve-like passages  25 . The release of this squeezing action re-closes the shrunken passages  25  and re-closes the container  14 . Essentially, in order to eject the liquid product from the interior volume  15 , the user needs to squeeze the container from the sides, and when the user removes pressure from the sides, the container  14  re-closes. 
     The squeezing of the container  14  from the sides, essentially perpendicular to the plane of the barrier member, has the effect of reducing the arching and the folds, while at the same time increasing the pressure of the liquid in the container  14 , which then causes the lips of the flexible sheets at the entrance of the valve-like passages  25  to partially open, allowing the liquid to flow out. The fluid channel in the outlet can be designed so that a liquid can flow out of the container  14  in different ways. For example, in one embodiment, the fluid can flow in a single channel and form a single stream. Alternatively, the package can be designed so that the fluid exits the container  14  in a spray pattern. For example, in one embodiment, the outlet may include a plurality of channels. 
     The advantages to the described and depicted self-closing valve  23  are that it is extremely simple to form and the operation of the valve  23  is less dependent on the properties of the fluid and the elasticity of the material constituting the container  14  than in other types of flexible containers. 
     In some embodiments, for example as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   , the barrier member  24  is located opposite the second end  22  of the fluid channel  20  and has a generally triangular shape. In this embodiment, a side of the generally triangular shaped barrier member  24  that is distal to the fluid channel  20  can have a length wider than a width of the fluid channel  20  and can extend approximately perpendicular to a general direction of the fluid channel  20 . The valve-like passages  25  can extend between the package periphery  80  and two respective sides of the generally triangular barrier member  24  positioned nearest to the second end  22  of the fluid channel  20 . The two respective sides of the generally triangular barrier member  24  that form the valve-like passages  25  can include a concave curvature, as shown in  FIG.  3   , resulting in curved passageways  25 , or can extend in a straight line. The point of the generally triangular shaped barrier member  24  that is nearest to the second end  22  of the fluid channel  20  can extend into the fluid channel  20 , as shown in  FIG.  3   . 
     Alternatively, as shown in  FIG.  4   , a barrier member  24 A can be located opposite the second end  22  of the fluid channel  20  and have a generally rectangular shape. In this embodiment, a side of the generally rectangular shaped barrier member  24  that is distal to the fluid channel  20  can have a length wider than a width of the fluid channel  20  and can extend approximately perpendicular to a general direction of the fluid channel  20 . The valve-like passages  25 A can extend between the package periphery  80  and two respective sides of the generally rectangular barrier member  24 A positioned nearest to the second end  22  of the fluid channel  20 . 
     In another embodiment, shown in  FIG.  5   , the barrier member is located opposite the second end  22  of the fluid channel  20  as in  FIGS.  3 - 4   , except that the barrier member includes two barrier members, shown as  24 B and  24 C, and has with a central passage  29 . In this embodiment, the central passage  29   created between the two barrier members  24 B and  24 C allows the flow of the liquid in the fluid channel  20  to be increased when the user applies pressure to the container  14  in a direction essentially perpendicular to the plane of the barrier member  24 , as previously described. 
     In another alternative embodiment, as shown in  FIGS.  8 A- 8 B , the sealing portion  100  is positioned at a corner of the container  14  and contains a folded portion  30 . In one embodiment, the corner  31  of the container  14  contained by the folded corner  30  forms an acute angle. For example, the corner  31  of the container may form an angle between about 60° and about 88°. The angle of corner  31  is defined as the angle between the top edge  51  of the package and the portion of side edge  52  of the container  14 , shown in  FIGS.  8 A- 8 B , which lies on folded portion  30 . Such an angled corner allows for the optimum direction of the forces pertaining to the folding and unfolding of the folds  26 ,  27 , and  28  and the arching of the zone between folds leading to a higher integrity seal when lying flat in its natural position, and better flow when squeezed from the sides. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  1 - 5   , the external sealing portion  100  may include a breachable bubble  40 . The breachable bubble  40  is surrounded by and defined by a bubble seal  41  that is at least partially breachable. For example, the bubble seal  41  can include at least one breachable point  42 . The breachable point  42  represents a portion of the bubble seal  41  that more easily separates than the remainder of the seal, for example, a weak spot or a soft seal. In one embodiment, the breachable point  42  is positioned at a position on the bubble seal  41  that is distant from the self-closing valve  23 , such as the furthest point on the bubble seal  41  from the self-closing valve  23 . 
     In another embodiment, the breachable bubble  40  can have two breachable points  42 , one that is distant from the self-closing valve  23  and one that is adjacent to the self-closing valve  23 , as shown in  FIG.  3   . One breachable point  42  may be breached by bursting the bubble  40 , e.g., by squeezing the bubble  40 . After one breachable point  42  has been breached, the second breachable point  42  may be breached, e.g., by squeezing the container  14  from the sides until the fluid product in the interior volume  15  passes through the channels  25  and generates sufficient pressure against the second breachable point  42  to breach the second breachable point  42 . 
     A breachable point  42  can coincide with the boundary  110  of the external sealing portion  100 . Furthermore, the breachable point  42  may be designed to provide the user an access or passageway upon the breach or bursting of the bubble  40 . The access or passageway may be exposed when the gas trapped within the bubble escapes as the breachable bubble  42  is breached. When the bubble  40  includes only one breachable point  42 , the access or passageway may assist the user to grip the front sealing surface  102  and back sealing surface  104  when unfolding the external sealing portion  100 . As shown in  FIG.  2   , the access or passageway provided by the breachable point  42  may be embodied by a portion of the front sealing surface  102  designated as a pull tab  81 . 
     In one embodiment, the external sealing portion  100  may be positioned such that the fluid channel  20  lies between the front sealing surface  102  and the rear sealing surface  104 . The front sealing surface  102  of the first flexible film  11  attaches to the rear sealing surface  104  of the second flexible film  12 . The front sealing surface  102  and the rear sealing surface  104  can be attached by way of a resealable or permanent attachment method, such as sealing or welding the surfaces together using any suitable sealing technique, for example an adhesive. A breachable bubble  40  is located within the front sealing surface  102 . The bubble seal  41  coincides with the boundary  110  at a breachable point or weak spot  42 . 
     In one embodiment, the external sealing portion  100  may be unfolded or peeled open as shown in  FIG.  2   . The front and rear sealing surfaces  102  and  104  can be peeled apart to separate a lower edge of the bubble seal  41  to permit access to the fluid outlet  21 . The front and rear sealing surfaces  102  and  104  may remain connected to each other at sides or may be fully separated. 
     In an alternative embodiment, the breachable bubble  40  of the external sealing portion  100  can be breached at a breachable point  42  within the boundary  110 , and the breachable bubble  40  can have an additional breachable point  42  adjacent to the fluid channel  20 . In this embodiment, when the bubble  40  is breached, an access or passageway is opened at the breachable point  42  within the boundary  110 . Then, the breachable point  42  near the fluid channel  20  is opened by squeezing the container  14  until the fluid pressure of the liquid  16  within the container  14  bursts the second breachable point  42 , thus forming a spout for the fluid outlet  21 . 
     In another embodiment, as shown in  FIGS.  6 A and  7   , the container  14  generally contains a breachable bubble  40  having a bubble seal  41  in communication with the barrier member  24 . In this embodiment, the fluid channel  20  surrounds the breachable bubble  40  but the breachable bubble  40  is not in fluid communication with the fluid channel  20 . The breachable bubble  40  can include a breachable point  42  in the form of a weak spot or soft seal integrated with the boundary  110  of the external sealing portion  100  such that, when the breachable bubble  40  bursts, the soft seal  42  is breached toward the boundary  110  and provides an access or passageway to the front sealing surface  102  and the rear sealing surface  104 . Then, the front sealing surface  102  and the rear sealing surface  104  may be peeled away from each other to reveal the fluid opening  21 , allowing for unimpeded flow of liquid  15  from the fluid channel  20  to the ambient. 
     In addition, the container  14  shown in  FIG.  6 A  has a rounded periphery  80  formed by an inverted seal  81 . Stated another way, in contrast to the edge seal  81  shown in  FIGS.  1 - 5   , the container  14  shown in  FIGS.  6 A-B  has a seal  81  disposed in the interior  15  of the container  14  such that the periphery  80  is rounded and has no linear or sharp edges of film material. The container  14  of  FIG.  6 A  can be formed by bonding the first film  11  and second film  12  together along the seam  81  and inverting the first film  11  and second film  12  inside-out to form the container  14  having a rounded periphery  80  as shown in  FIG.  6 B . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the container  14  only contains a single breachable bubble  40 . Additionally, it is preferable that the breachable bubble  40  only protrudes or projects from one side of the package  14 . In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in  FIGS.  8 A- 8 B , this preference minimizes interference with the adherence of the folded portion  30  to the exterior of the flexible container  14 . As such, the bubble  40  preferably only projects from the front sealing surface  102  of the sealing portion  100  opposite the rear sealing surface  104  of the flexible container  14 . 
     Alternatively, as shown in  FIGS.  9 A- 9 E , the sealing portion  100  of the container  14  can include two breachable bubbles  40   a  and  40   b . The two breachable bubbles  40   a  and  40   b  can optionally be formed by folding a single breachable bubble  40  into two halves, as shown in  FIGS.  9 C- 9 D . As best illustrated in  FIGS.  9 A- 9 B , the sealing portion  100  can include folding barrier members  46  to assist with folding the breachable bubble  40  into two bubbles  40   a  and  40   b . The breachable bubble  40   a  can have a bubble seal  41   a  within the boundary  110  of the external sealing portion  100 , and the breachable bubble  40   b  can have a bubble seal  41   b  adjacent to the fluid channel  20  of the container  14 . As best shown in  FIG.  9 B , both bubble seals  41   a  and  41   b  can include a breachable point  42   a  and  42   b , respectively. Thus, as shown in  FIG.  9 D , the breachable point  42   a  can burst the bubble  40   a  to open toward the exterior of the package  10  to form an opening  43   a , and breachable point  42   b  can be breached to open toward the interior volume  15  of the package  10  to form an opening  43   b . As shown in  FIG.  9 E , when the sealing portion  100  is unfolded, the sealing portion  100  becomes part of the fluid channel  20  such that the opening  43   a  forms the fluid outlet  21 . 
     Optionally, the breachable bubbles  40   a  and  40   b  can have a passage  44  between them. The passage  44  can advantageously control the flow of the product through the breachable bubbles  40   a  and  40   b  when they have been breached. For example, as shown in  FIGS.  9 C-D , when the sealing portion  100  is folded at the passage  44 , no product can flow from bubble  40   b  into bubble  40   a  and to the fluid outlet  21 . For example, in various embodiments as shown in  FIGS.  9 A- 9 E , the passage  44  may be a substantially straight passage between the first breachable bubble  40   a  and the second breachable bubble  40   b . The width of the passage  44  may vary depending on the desired flow characteristics of the fluid. Alternatively, the passage  44  may be a circuitous or serpentine passage between first breachable bubble  40   a  and the second breachable bubble  40   b . Both the width of the passage  44  and the circuitous or serpentine path of the passage  44  may vary depending on the desired flow characteristics of the fluid. In other alternative embodiments, the passage  44  may be a tapered passage. 
     The bubble seal  41  can be made using various techniques and methods. For instance, the bubble seal  41  can be made using thermal bonding, ultrasonic bonding, or an adhesive. For instance, in one particular embodiment, the bubble seal  41  can be made by placing a heated sealing bar against the outer periphery of the bubble and exerting heat and pressure so as to form the breachable bubble  40 . In this embodiment, for instance, the breachable bubble  40  can be made from polymer films. 
     The breachable point  42  of the bubble seal  41  can also be made using different techniques and methods. When using a sealing bar to form the bubble seal  41 , for instance, the breachable point  42  can be constructed by varying the pressure, varying the temperature, or varying the time in which the sealing bar is contacted with the materials along the portion of the bubble seal  41  where the breachable point  42  is to exist. 
     In an alternative embodiment, the bubble seal  41  can include a heat sealed portion. The breachable point  42 , on the other hand, may include a “peel seal” portion. In this embodiment, for instance, when the breachable bubble  40  is breached along the breachable point  42 , a small opening may be formed along the bubble seal  41 . The breached portion of the bubble seal  41  can form at least one, e.g. two, tabs  102  and  104  that can be grasped by a user for further breaching the breachable bubble  40 . In this manner, the opening of the bubble can be increased in size to a user’s preference. An example of tabs formed by the breaching of the breachable bubble  40  is shown in  FIG.  2   . 
     Various different methods and techniques are used to form peel seal portions. For example, in one embodiment, the breachable point  42  of the bubble seal  41  may include a first portion that is adhesively secured to a second portion along the seal  41 . The first portion of the breachable point  42  may be coated with a pressure sensitive adhesive. The adhesive may include, for instance, any suitable adhesive, such as an acrylate. The second and opposing portion of the peel seal, on the other hand, may include a film coated or laminated to a release layer. The release layer may include, for instance, a silicone. 
     In an alternative embodiment, each opposing portion of the breachable point  42  of the bubble seal  41  may include a multi-layered film. The major layers of the film may include a supporting layer, a pressure sensitive adhesive component, and a thin contact layer. In this embodiment, the two portions of the breachable point  42  can be brought together and attached. For instance, the thin contact layer of one portion can be attached to the thin contact layer of the opposing portion using heat and/or pressure. When the breachable bubble  40  is breached, and the breachable point  42  of the bubble seal  41  is peeled apart, a part of the sealed area of one of the contact layers tears away from its pressure sensitive adhesive component and remains adhered to the opposing contact layer. Thereafter, resealing can be affected by re-engaging this torn away contact portion with the pressure sensitive adhesive from which it was separated when the layers were peeled apart. 
     In this embodiment, the contact layer can include a film having a relatively low tensile strength and having a relatively low elongation at break. Examples of such materials include polyolefins such as polyethylenes, copolymers of ethylene and ethylenically unsaturated comonomers, copolymers of an olefin and an ethylenically unsaturated monocarboxylic acid, and the like. The pressure sensitive adhesive contained within the layers, on the other hand, may be of the hot-melt variety or otherwise responsive to heat and/or pressure. 
     In still another embodiment, the breachable point  42  of the bubble seal  41  can include a combination of heat sealing and adhesive sealing. For instance, in one embodiment, the breachable point  42  may include a first portion that is heat sealed to a second portion. Along the breachable point  42 , however, may also exist a peel seal composition that may, in one embodiment, interfere with the heat sealing process of the bubble seal  41  to produce a breachable portion  42 . The peel seal composition, for instance, may include a lacquer that forms a weak portion along the bubble seal  41 . 
     In an alternative embodiment, an adhesive may be spot coated over the length of the breachable point  42 . Once the breachable point  42  is breached, the adhesive can then be used to reseal the two portions together after use. 
     In embodiments where the breachable bubble  40  and sealing portion  100  are re-sealable, the container  14  may be re-closed to provide a more robust seal than by relying on the self-closing valve  23  alone. 
     The breachable bubble  40  can be filled with a gas, such as air. The breachable bubble may also be filled with any other fluid, such as a liquid, in addition to air or gas. In some embodiments, as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 5   , the interior volume of the breachable bubble  40  can be generally in fluid communication with the fluid channel  20 . The gas pressure within the bubble can be sufficient so as to prevent the contents of the container from exiting through the fluid channel  20  until the breachable bubble  40  is breached. As such, prior to breaching of the breachable bubble  40 , the fluid within the interior volume of the container  14  is prevented from escaping into the breachable bubble  40  by both the self-closing valve  23  and the gas pressure within the bubble  40 . It is additionally prevented from escaping into the ambient by the bubble seal  42 . 
     The breachable bubble  40 , as described above, is expandable to open the container  14  by external pressure applied by a consumer. For small bubbles, the consumer may simply pinch a bubble or bubbles between his thumb and forefinger. Slightly larger bubbles may require thumb-to-thumb pressure. Pressure can also be applied to the bubble by placing the bubble against a flat surface and applying pressure with one’s fingers or palm. 
     When pressure is applied to the breachable bubble  40 , the atmosphere within the bubble applies pressure to the bubble seal  41  which causes the bubble  40  to breach at the weakest portion. For instance, in embodiments that include a breachable point  42 , separation of the bubble  40  occurs along the breachable point  42  creating an edge breach. In some embodiments, the edge breach may be sufficient to allow access to the fluid channel  20  for dispensing the contents of the container. Alternatively, the edge breach may form flaps  81  and  82  that can be easily peeled apart for better exposing the fluid channel  20 .  FIG.  2    shows the breachable bubble  40  after it has been breached. 
     The breachable bubble  40  may provide a distinct breaching sound when the bubble  40  is breached. The breaching sound may be caused by the trapped fluid escaping from the front and rear sealing surfaces  102  and  104  when the breachable bubble  40  is breached. For example, in one embodiment, the breachable bubble  40  may provide a popping sound, similar to a small balloon popping, when the breachable bubble  40  is breached. In other embodiments, the breachable bubble  40  may provide, for example, a peeping sound, a snapping sound, or a whistling sound. 
     In the embodiments illustrated, the breachable bubble  40  has a circular shape. It should be understood, however, that the breachable bubble  40  can have any suitable shape. For example, in other embodiments, the breachable bubble  40  may have an oval shape, may be triangular, may have a heart-like shape, may have a rectangular-like shape, or may have a more complex configuration. It should be understood that containers made according to the present disclosure can have any suitable shape and configuration. 
     A method for opening the package is also disclosed. A user may open a package as shown in  FIG.  1    with the external sealing portion  100  according to the following method. First, the user bursts the breachable bubble  40 , preferably by breaching the breachable point  42 . Second, the breaching of the breachable point  42  allows the user to access the pull tabs  81  and  82 . Third, by use of the pull tab, the user peels the front sealing surface  102  of the first flexible film  11  apart from the rear sealing surface  104  of the second flexible film  12 . Fourth, the user continues to peel the sealing surfaces  102  and  104  apart until the entire bubble seal  41  is breached. When the bubble seal  41  is breached to a sufficient extent to expose the fluid outlet  21 , the fluid outlet  21  is granted fluid communication with the ambient atmosphere, allowing the user to access the contents within the interior volume  15  by way of the fluid channel  20  and the self-closing valve  23 . Optionally, the user may fold back the first sealing surface  102  for more convenient access to the fluid outlet  21 . 
     Alternatively, when the sealing portion  100  includes a single breachable bubble  40  having two breachable points  42  as shown in, e.g.,  FIG.  3   , the user bursts the breachable bubble  40  by breaching the breachable point  42  within the boundary  110  of the sealing portion  100  and furthest from the self-closing valve  23 . After the first breachable point  42  has been breached, the user can squeeze the package  10  to increase the pressure of the liquid contents against the second breachable point  42  near to the self-closing valve  23  until the second breachable point  42  is breached by the liquid. Thus, when both breachable points  42  have been breached, a fluid outlet  21  is formed, granting fluid communication with the ambient atmosphere, allowing the user to access the contents within the interior volume  15  by way of the fluid channel  20  and the self-closing valve  23 . 
     In another embodiment, when the sealing portion  100  includes a folded portion on a corner of the container  14 , the method may be carried out as follows. First, the package  10  is configured so that the folded portion  30  is in the folded position, cutting off fluid flow between the breachable bubble  40  and the interior volume  15  of the package. This is shown in  FIG.  8 A . Next, a user applies sufficient pressure to the breachable bubble  40  in order to breach the bubble seal  42  and separate first flexible film  11  from second flexible film  12 . Preferably, the user applies pressure on the section of the bubble  40  closest to the fold line  50 . 
     After the bubble is breached, the user unfolds the folded portion  30  from the folded position to the unfolded position, as shown in  FIG.  8 B . This allows fluid communication between the ambient and the self-closing valve  23 . The user may have to further separate the two tabs  81  and  82  formed by the breaching of the bubble in order to expose the fluid outlet  21 . 
     In yet another embodiment, when the sealing portion  100  includes two breachable bubbles  40   a  and  40   b  folded over each other, as shown in  FIG.  9 C , the method may be carried out as follows and as illustrated in  FIGS.  9 D- 9 E . First, the package  10  is configured so that the bubble  40   a  is folded over the bubble  40   b , cutting off any fluid flow between the bubbles  40   a  and  40   b , as shown in  FIG.  9 C . Next, a user applies sufficient pressure to the breachable bubbles  40   a  and  40   b  in order to breach the breachable points  42   a  and  42   b  to form openings  43   a  and  43   b , as shown in  FIG.  9 D . After the bubbles  42   a  and  42   b  are breached, the user unfolds the sealing portion  100  to the unfolded position shown in  FIG.  9 E . This allows fluid communication between the ambient and the self-closing valve  23 . Then, fluid may exit through the fluid outlet  21  of the package  10 . 
     In any embodiment, the self-closing valve  23  prevents unwanted fluid flow. For example, as the package  10  is opened and the sealing portion  100  is unfolded or peeled open, the self-closing valve  23  prevents the contents of the interior volume  15  to escape. Further, even if the fluid channel  20  is pointed downward toward the ground, the contents of the package  10  are still unable to escape even if the user supplies a moderate amount of pressure to the center of the front  11  and back  12  walls of the package  10 . This is due to the barrier member  24  and the folds  26 ,  27 , and  28  created by the self-closing valve  23  and pressure, as described above. 
     When desired, in order to allow the liquid contained in the container  14  to pour out through the fluid channel  20  and fluid outlet  21 , pressure is applied to the sides of the package  10  perpendicular to the plane of the barrier member  24 . The shape of the fluid channel  20  and fluid outlet  21  may be shaped in any manner in order to influence the flow properties as the fluid is poured out of the package. As such, the package allows for a precise, controlled flow, unlike many similar flexible liquid packages or pouches. 
     When the user wants to stop the flow of the liquid, they may simply stop applying pressure to the sides of the container  14  and the self-closing valve  23  will close back up, preventing further flow. In this manner, the user does not need to reposition the container  14  in an upright position in order to stop flow. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  11 - 39   , various other embodiments of packages made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown. In each of these embodiments, the breachable bubble can be integrated into the self-closing valve design. The bubble can be breached for forming a passageway between the interior volume and the outside environment (i.e. outside the package). Breaching the bubble also activates the self-closing valve for a controlled dispensing of a product contained within the package. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  38  and  39   , a further embodiment of a package  10  made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown.  FIG.  38    shows the flexible container  14  when the interior volume  15  does not contain a flowable substance, while  FIG.  39    shows the flexible container  14  when the interior volume  15  contains a flowable substance. The package  10  of  FIGS.  38  and  39    includes a flexible container  14  having an interior volume  15  for receiving a flowable substance and defines a sealed periphery  80 . A breachable point  42  is located along the sealed periphery  80  of the flexible container  14 . The breachable point  42  of the flexible container  14  includes a weaker seal than the remainder of the sealed periphery  80 . The breachable point  42  is designed to breach when pressure is applied to the package without other breaches forming along the periphery. 
     The package  10  of  FIGS.  38  and  39    further contains a fluid channel  20 , which includes a fluid outlet and at least one valve-like passageway  25 . For example, in  FIGS.  38  and  39   , the fluid channel  20  includes two valve-like passageways  25 . The fluid outlet is located adjacent to the breachable point  42 , and the two valve-like passageways  25  are in fluid communication with the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 . 
     Referring still to  FIGS.  38  and  39   , the package  10  additionally includes a self-closing valve  23 , which contains a barrier member  24  positioned between the fluid outlet and the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 . The two valve-like passageways  25  of the flexible container  14  are formed on opposite sides of the barrier member  24  between the barrier member  24  and the sealed periphery  80 . 
     For the package  14  as shown in  FIGS.  38  and  39   , pressure applied to the flexible container  14  causes the breachable point  42  to breach to dispense controlled amounts of the flowable substance from the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 . Of advantage, the package can be easily opened using one hand without having to tear away a top strip of the package and without having to use a cutting tool, such as scissors. Further, when pressure is no longer applied to the flexible container  14 , the self-closing valve  23  inhibits further flow of the flowable substance through the fluid outlet. 
     In one embodiment, the fluid channel  20  may contain trapped air, which will then function as a breachable bubble. For example, the fluid channel  20  can be initially free of the flowable substance and be “plump” with air or may contain residual amounts of air. In one aspect, the package  10  is filled with the flowable substance from the bottom in order to trap air in the fluid channel  20 . The self-closing valve  23  assists in keeping the fluid channel  20  initially free of the flowable substance. A user can then breach the breachable point  42  and dispense the substance by applying pressure to the package  10 . For instance, the user can open the package by pinching the package  10  with a thumb and finger. Once breached, the trapped air is released followed by the flowable substance. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS.  38  and  39   , the flowable substance exhibits a static pressure and is in direct fluid communication with trapped air contained in the fluid channel  20 . In order to prevent the trapped fluid or trapped air in the fluid channel  20  from traveling into the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 , the flowable substance in the interior volume  15  can have a sufficient static pressure. Specifically, the flowable substance can have a sufficient static pressure such that applying a pressure to the flexible container  14  causes the trapped air contained in the fluid channel  20  to breach through the breachable point  42  of the boundary  110 , thereby enabling fluid communication between the fluid channel  20  and the ambient. In other words, when a user applies pressure to the flexible container  14 , the fluid product has a sufficient static pressure that the self-closing valve  23 , the two valve-like passageways  25 , and the fold lines prevent the trapped air in the fluid channel  20  from traveling into the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14  and instead cause the package to breach. 
     The self-closing valve of the present disclosure may take a variety of shapes or forms. In one aspect, the self-closing valve  23  may have a triangular shape. However, the self-closing valve  23  can have a variety of other shapes or forms, such as a rectangular shape, a horizontal oval shape, or a heart shape. In one embodiment, the barrier member can be filled with a gas, such as air. 
     In one aspect, the flexible container  14  of the present disclosure may include a top and a bottom, where the fluid outlet and breachable point  42  are located in a middle of the top, as shown in  FIGS.  38  and  39   . The fluid outlet and breachable point, however, can be located at a number of locations around the package  10 . For example, in one aspect, the fluid outlet and the breachable point  42  may be located at a top corner of the flexible container  14 , as shown, for example at least in  FIG.  12   . 
     The package  10  of the present disclosure includes a flexible container  14  and an interior volume  15 , both of which may have a variety of spatial volumes. For example, in one aspect, the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14  may have a volume of from about 0.5 ounces to about 5 ounces. Additionally, in another aspect, the flexible container  14  itself may have a volume of from about 5 ounces to about 64 ounces. However, a flexible container  14  or an interior volume  15  may each be employed having different volumes in other packages made in accordance with the present disclosure. The volume or width of the self-closing valve passageways  25  can by altered and adjusted based on the viscosity of the flowable substance and/or the desired flow rate. 
     In one aspect, the present disclosure may include a strip containing a plurality of packages described in accordance with the present disclosure that are connected together in a sequential manner. For instance, the flexible packages may include a top and a bottom, and the top of a flexible package  14  may be connected to the bottom of an adjacent flexible package  14 . In an even further aspect, the packages may be separated by lines of perforations. 
     In one embodiment, a method for opening a package  10  as defined by the present disclosure is provided. Referring to  FIG.  39   , for example, the method includes applying pressure to the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 , causing the breachable point  42  of the package  10  to breach and thereby placing the fluid outlet in communication with the outside environment; and applying further pressure to the flexible container  14 , causing the flowable substance contained within the interior volume  15  to exit the flexible container through the self-closing valve  23  and the fluid outlet. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  11   , a package  10  is shown that includes a flexible container  14  defining an interior volume  15 . In accordance with the present disclosure, the flexible container  14  includes a self-closing valve  23  that is integral with a breachable bubble  40 . The self-closing valve  23 , for instance, can include a barrier member  24  attached to a breachable bubble  40 . The breachable bubble  40  can include a breachable point  42  that faces a boundary  110  of the flexible container  14 . During use, a user can burst the breachable bubble  40  along the breaching point  42 . Breaching the bubble  40  can, in one embodiment, create pull tabs. A user can use the pull tabs to peel a first flexible film apart from a second flexible film. During the peeling process, a fluid outlet forms that is in fluid communication with the interior volume  15  via valve-like passageways  25 . 
     Alternatively, breaching the bubble  40  can, in one embodiment, cause a fluid outlet to form that is automatically in communication with the valve-like passageways  25  without having to peel apart any pull tabs that are formed during the breaching process. 
     In one embodiment, the breachable bubble  40  can be used to form a fluid outlet for the flexible container  14  when the bubble is breached. After the bubble  40  is breached, breachable points may still remain within each of the valve-like passageways  25 . These breachable points can be breached by applying pressure to the interior volume  15  of the flexible package  14 . In this manner, the bubble  40  is used to form a fluid outlet in a first step and in a second step pressure is placed on the flexible container  14  for breaching further points or seals within the container that, once breached, provide fluid communication between the fluid outlet and the valve-like passageways  25 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  11   , the breachable bubble  40  is generally in the shape of a triangle that forms an extended point that forms the breachable point  42 . In  FIG.  11   , the boundary  110  of the flexible container  14  includes a sharp corner where the breachable bubble  40  and self-closing valve  23  are positioned. Alternatively, however, the flexible container  14  can include a rounded corner. 
     Referring to  FIG.  12   , another embodiment of a flexible container  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. The embodiment of  FIG.  12    is very similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  11   . The flexible container  14  includes a self-closing valve  23  in combination with a breachable bubble  40 . The self-closing valve  23  includes a barrier member  24  that attaches both sides or walls of the flexible container together. The breachable bubble  40  has a triangular shape with a breachable point  42 . Applying pressure to the breachable bubble  40  causes the breachable point  42  to breach and break through a sealed portion  120  of the flexible container  14 . Once the sealed portion  120  is separated, a fluid outlet is formed that is in fluid communication with the valve-like passageways  25  and the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  12   , the boundary  110  of the flexible container  14  includes a rounded corner. In addition, the barrier member  24  in  FIG.  12    has a smaller width than the barrier member  24  illustrated in  FIG.  11   . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  13  and  14   , two other embodiments of flexible containers  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown. Referring to  FIG.  13   , the flexible container  14  defines an interior volume  15 . Attached between two opposing film layers is an integrated self-closing valve  23  and breachable bubble  40 . The self-closing valve  23  is defined by a barrier member  24  which also includes a bubble seal for the breachable bubble  40 . The breachable bubble  40  includes a breachable point  42  that is directed towards a fluid outlet defined by a boundary  110  of the flexible container  14 . 
     During use, a user can breach the bubble  40  at the breachable point  42  forming a fluid outlet. When the bubble is breached, a pair of opposing pull tabs can be formed for further opening the container so as to form fluid communication between valve-like passageways  25  and the interior volume  15 . Alternatively, or in addition, the flexible container  14  may include breachable seals located along the valve-like passageways  25  which can be breached by applying pressure to the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14  after the breachable bubble  40  has been breached. 
     The flexible container  14  as shown in  FIG.  14    generally includes the same elements and can operate in substantially the same way. In  FIGS.  13  and  14   , the breachable bubble  40  and the self-closing valve  23  (which are integrated together) have an arc-like shape. More particularly, the self-closing valves  23  and the breachable bubbles  40  have a curved shape such that the concave portion of the curve faces towards the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 . In  FIG.  13   , the breachable bubble  40  has a uniform curved shape. In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  13   , however, the breachable bubble  40  has more of an arrow-like shape defining an apex wherein the breachable point  42  is located. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  15  and  16   , further embodiments of flexible containers  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown. As illustrated in  FIG.  15   , the flexible container  14  includes an interior volume  15  in fluid communication with valve-like passageways  25 . The flexible container  14  further includes an integrated self-closing valve  23  and breachable bubble  40 . The breachable bubble  40  includes a breachable point  42  that faces towards a corner of the package to form a fluid outlet at the boundary  110 . Similar to the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  13  and  14   , the bubble seal  41  of the breachable bubble  40  also forms a barrier member for the self-closing valve  23 . The breachable bubble  40 , when breached, forms a fluid outlet and, as described above, the package can be manipulated so that the fluid outlet formed by the breachable bubble is placed in fluid communication with the valve-like passageways  25 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  15   , the self-closing valve  23  and the breachable bubble  40  have a heart-like shape in which the point or apex of the heart faces the boundary  110  of the flexible package  14 . The heart-like shape of the breachable bubble  40  may create additional fold lines in the package and can provide greater strength to the package and/or provide better control over the flow properties of the package when a product, such as a fluid, is dispensed from the interior volume  15 . 
     The flexible container  14  as shown in  FIG.  16    is substantially similar to the package illustrated in  FIG.  15   . In  FIG.  16   , however, the boundary  110  of the flexible container  14  has rounded corners. In addition to having a self-closing valve  23  and a breachable bubble  40  in the shape of a heart, the flexible container  14  as shown in  FIG.  16    further includes an additional barrier member  130  spaced from the breachable bubble  40 . The barrier member  130  and the breachable bubble  40  form the self-closing valve  23 . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  16   , the barrier member  130  has a round or circular shape that connects the opposing walls of the package together. The barrier member  130  is spaced from the breachable bubble  40  a sufficient distance in order to provide further strength and integrity to the self-closing valve  23  without creating adverse fluid flow characteristics within the flexible container  14 . In one embodiment, the barrier member  130  can be a point bond that connects the opposing walls of the flexible container  14 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  17 ,  18  and  19   , further embodiments of packages made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown. In the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  17 - 19   , the flexible container  14  also includes an integrated self-closing valve  23  and breachable bubble  40 . The bubble seal  41  of the breachable bubble  40 , for instance, forms the self-closing valve  23 . The bubble seal  41  of the breachable bubble  40  also forms valve-like passageways  25  that are in fluid communication with an interior volume  15  for controllably dispensing product from the flexible container  14  to the outside environment through the boundary  110 . 
     In the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  17 - 19   , the self-closing valve  23  and the breachable bubble  40  have a flute-like shape or a flask-like shape. As shown in  FIG.  17   , for instance, the breachable bubble  40  includes a conical body  132  in fluid communication with a spout  134 . A breachable point  42  is positioned at the end of the spout  134  in the direction of the boundary  110 . The breachable bubble  40 , when breached, forms a fluid outlet through the boundary  110 . In addition, breaching the bubble  40  also provides a means for providing fluid communication between the valve-like passageways  25  and the fluid outlet that is formed. 
     The flexible container  14  as shown in  FIG.  18    is similar in construction to the flexible container  14  shown in  FIG.  17   . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  18   , the conical-shaped body  132  of the breachable bubble  40  has a greater width for forming valve-like passageways  25  with a different configuration. As shown in  FIGS.  17  and  18   , the corner of the flexible container  14   can have a planar region opposite the breachable point  42  for facilitating the formation of a fluid opening when the bubble  40  is breached. 
     Referring to  FIG.  19   , a self-closing valve  23  and breachable bubble  40  are illustrated similar to the shapes illustrated in  FIGS.  17  and  18   . In  FIG.  19   , however, the conical body  132  has a more rounded shape. In addition, the spout  134  is wider in relation to the conical body  132 . In addition, in the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  19   , the flexible container  14  includes a neck portion  136  that has a shape that conforms to the shape of the spout  134  of the breachable bubble  40 . The neck portion  136  can further define the shape of the valve-like passageways  25  for providing better control over fluid flow. In addition, the neck portion  136  can facilitate formation of a fluid opening once the bubble  40  is breached. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  20  and  21   , still further embodiments of flexible containers  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure are illustrated. The flexible containers  14  shown in  FIGS.  20  and  21    are similar to the embodiment shown in  FIG.  19   . For example, as shown in  FIG.  20   , the flexible container  14  includes an integrated self-closing valve  23  and breachable bubble  40 . The breachable bubble  40  includes a bubble seal  41  that forms the barrier member of the self-closing valve. The bubble seal connects between the two outer walls or surfaces of the flexible container  14  and forms valve-like passageways  25 . The flexible container  14  includes a sealed end along the boundary  110 . The breachable bubble  40  includes a breachable point  42 . When pressure is applied to the bubble  40 , the bubble forms a fluid outlet through the boundary  110  of the flexible container  14 . In addition, the fluid outlet can be placed in fluid communication with the valve-like passageways  25  for controllably dispensing product from the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  20   , the breachable bubble  40  has a bell-like shape that includes a conical-shaped portion  132  and a spout portion  134 . The spout portion  134  generally follows the contours of a neck portion  136  of the flexible container  14 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  21   , the breachable bubble  40  also includes a body portion  132  and a spout portion  134 . The breachable bubble  40  generally includes three triangular lobes to form a flute-like shape as shown in  FIGS.  17 ,  18  and  19   . In addition, the self-closing valve  23  further includes a barrier member  130  similar to the barrier member  130  shown in  FIG.  16   . The barrier member  130  can have a circular shape and can connect the two opposing surfaces of the flexible container  14  for providing further strength to the self-closing valve  23 . 
     Referring now to the flexible containers  14  illustrated in  FIGS.  22  and  23   , further embodiments of packages made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown in which a self-closing valve  23  is integral with a breachable bubble  40 . The self-closing valve  23  and the breachable bubble  40  can be used to open the package similar to any of the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  11 - 21   . In  FIG.  22   , the breachable bubble  40  is in the shape of an oval. The oval has an elongated shape defining a breachable point  42 . As shown, the elongated body of the bubble  40  faces and corresponds with the neck portion  136  of the flexible container  14  having a boundary  110 . A bubble seal  41  serves as a barrier member for the self-closing valve  23  and defines the valve-like passageways  25 . 
     In  FIG.  23   , the breachable bubble  40  is in the shape of a circle and operates similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  22   . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  24   , another embodiment of a flexible container  14  is illustrated including a breachable bubble  40  that is integrated with a self-closing valve  23 . The embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  24    is similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  21   . In  FIG.  24   , however, the self-closing valve  23  is defined exclusively by the bubble seal  41  and does not include a separate barrier member positioned below the breachable bubble  40 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS.  25 - 27   , further embodiments of flexible containers  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown. In the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  25 - 27   , the flexible container  14  includes a breachable bubble  40  having a disc-like shape. The breachable bubble  40  is at least partially integral with a self-closing valve  23 . The self-closing valve  23  and the breachable bubble  40  form valve-like passageways  25  that extend into a neck portion  136  of the flexible container  14 . The valve-like passageways  25  are in fluid communication with an interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  25   , the breachable bubble  40  includes a bubble seal  41  and a breachable point  42 . The flexible container  14  further includes a barrier member  24 . In this embodiment, the self-closing valve  23  is formed by the barrier member  24  in conjunction with the bubble seal  41 . The breachable bubble  40  is configured to breach in the direction of the neck portion  136  through the breachable point  42  for forming a fluid opening through the boundary  110 . By peeling back pull tabs once the bubble  40  is breached or by adding further pressure to the interior volume  15  of the flexible container  14 , the fluid outlet formed by the breachable bubble  40  can be placed in fluid communication with the valve-like passageways  25 . 
     In  FIG.  26   , the breachable bubble  40  has a similar shape to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  25    except the breachable bubble  40  includes a hump portion positioned opposite the breachable point  42  and the neck portion  136 . Further, the bubble seal  41 , in this embodiment, forms the entire self-closing valve  23 . As shown in  FIGS.  25  and  26   , the breachable bubble  40  includes a concave-shaped surface that faces the neck portion  136 . 
     Referring now to the flexible container  14  shown in  FIG.  27   , the breachable bubble  40  and the self-closing valve  23  have a shape similar to the breachable bubble  40  illustrated in  FIG.  26   . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  27   , however, a hump portion  140  is separated by a further barrier member and thus is not part of the breachable bubble  40 . Instead, the flexible container  14  includes a separate barrier member  24  that extends from the breachable bubble  40  for forming the self-closing valve  23 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  28  and  29   , further embodiments of flexible containers  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown. The flexible containers  14  as shown in  FIGS.  28  and  29    are very similar to the flexible container  14  illustrated in  FIG.  14   . More particularly, the breachable bubble in the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  28  and  29    are in the shape of an arrow having an apex where the breachable point  42  is located. The apex of each breachable bubble  40  faces a neck portion  136  of the flexible container  14 . The breachable bubble  40  forms valve-like passageways  25  for forming a self-closing valve  23 . In the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  28  and  29   , the self-closing valve  23  further includes a barrier member  130  that connects one side of the package with an opposite side of the package for providing strength and integrity. As shown in  FIGS.  28  and  29   , the barrier member  130  can be in the shape of a circle. In other embodiments, however, the barrier member  130  can have any suitable shape, such as rectangular, square, or a complex shape. 
     Referring to  FIG.  31   , a further embodiment of a breachable bubble  40  illustrated in an arrow-like shape is shown. The embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  31    is similar in construction and function to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  14   . The breachable bubble  40 , for instance, includes a bubble seal  41  that also serves as forming a self-closing valve  23  and the formation of valve-like passageways  25 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  30   , still another embodiment of a flexible container  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. The flexible container  14  includes a breachable bubble  40  having a breach point  42  and being formed by a bubble seal  41 . The bubble seal  41  also forms a self-closing valve  23  defining valve-like passageways  25 . The breachable bubble  40  is similar in configuration to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  13   . In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  30   , however, the bubble  40  includes not only a body portion  132  but also a spout portion  134  that extends into the neck portion  136  of the flexible container  14 . The spout portion  134  can facilitate formation of a fluid opening when the bubble is breached and can better define the fluid passageways  25 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  32  and  33   , further embodiments of flexible containers  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown. In  FIGS.  32  and  33   , a breachable bubble  40  defined by a bubble seal  41  and a breachable point  42  forms part of a self-closing valve  23 . The self-closing valve  23 , however, further includes a barrier member  130  which, in the embodiments illustrated, is in the shape of a horizontal rod-like member. The embodiment of  FIG.  32    is very similar in design and function to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  23   . The embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  33    is very similar in design and function to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  22   . The embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  32  and  33   , however, include the additional barrier member  130  that connects the opposing walls of the package together and can have various different functions and uses. For instance, the barrier member  130  can better define the valve-like passageways  25  and can provide further structure and integrity to the package. In addition, the barrier members  130  can change the position of the fold lines of the packages after the bubbles  40  have been breached and during dispensing of products from the flexible containers  14  by applying pressure to the interior volume  15 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  34   , a flexible container  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown containing an integrated breachable bubble  40  and self-closing valve  23 . More particularly, the breachable bubble  40  includes a bubble seal  41  that defines the self-closing valve  23  and forms the valve-like passageways  25 . The breachable bubble  40  includes a breachable point  42  facing the boundary  110  of the flexible container  14  and within a neck portion  136 . The embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  34    is very similar in shape and function as to the flexible container  14  shown in  FIG.  17   . In  FIG.  34   , however, the body portion  132  of the flexible bubble gradually extends into the spout portion  134  of the breachable bubble  40 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  35   , still another embodiment of a flexible container made in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. In  FIG.  35   , the self-closing valve  23  and the breachable bubble  40  are very similar in design and function as to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  31   . As shown, the breachable bubble  40  has an arrow-like shape and may be described as having the shape of a “fish tail”. 
     In the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS.  11 - 35    and  FIGS.  38  and  39   , each of the flexible containers includes a single breachable bubble. Referring to  FIGS.  36  and  37   , further embodiments of flexible containers  14  made in accordance with the present disclosure are shown. In  FIGS.  36  and  37   , each flexible container  14  contains two different breachable bubbles that cooperate together to form valve-like passageways  25  and a self-closing valve  23 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  36   , for instance, the flexible container  14  includes a first breachable bubble  40 A spaced from a second breachable bubble  40 B. The breachable bubbles  40 A and  40 B have a curved or “boomerang” shape. Each breachable bubble  40 A and  40 B includes a bubble seal  41 A and  41 B and a breachable point  42 A and  42 B that faces a boundary  110 . In the embodiment illustrated, the breachable bubbles  40 A and  40 B are located primarily in the neck portion  136  of the flexible container  14 . 
     The two cooperating breachable bubbles  40 A and  40 B also form a self-closing valve  23  defining a valve-like passageway  25 . When a user desires to open the package and dispense the contents, a user applies pressure to the breachable bubbles  40 A and  40 B for causing a breach through the boundary  110 . A user can then peel opposing sides or walls of the container for producing a pour spout that is in fluid communication with the valve-like passageway  25 . Applying pressure to the interior volume  15  allows for controlled flow of product through the fluid outlet. 
     Referring to  FIG.  37   , the flexible container  14  is very similar in shape and function to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  36   . In  FIG.  37   , however, the opposing breachable bubbles  40 A and  40 B have a “crescent moon-like shape”. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIG.  37   , the flexible container  14  further includes a barrier member  130  that attaches the opposing walls of the container together. The barrier member  130  can have any suitable shape. In the embodiment illustrated, the barrier member  130  has a circular shape and is spaced from the breachable bubbles  40 A and  40 B for forming valve-like passageways  25 . The barrier member  130  can provide greater strength and integrity to the package and can provide for better control over fluid flow through a fluid outlet formed by the breachable bubbles  40 A and  40 B. 
     This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.