Patent Description:
In food service, and in particular in the field of high-volume fast food service, it is frequently desired that food be supplemented by condiments such as ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and the like. It has recently become customary in retail fast service chain food outlets to use a wide variety of devices to dispense a measured quantity of flowable product. For example, a trigger-activated dispensing gun assembly has commonly been used in "back of the restaurant" operations for discharging one or more condiments or sauces. The gun assembly dispenses a quantity of a condiment with each pull of a gun trigger. The gun assembly includes a cylindrical container that houses the condiment and cooperates with a trigger in a gun to dispense the condiment out of a nozzle. However, the gun, cylindrical container, and nozzle are typically disassembled and/or cleaned each time the container is emptied and/or refilled. In addition, the gun assembly typically can be messy, as condiment can drip from the nozzle between uses; conventional systems can be labor intensive; and the container can sometimes become damaged and not insert properly into the gun. It would be advantageous in some circumstances to avoid the use of a gun or other dispenser that needs to be cleaned.

<CIT> discloses a package according to the preamble of claim <NUM>.

In a first embodiment, a package includes a first panel and a second panel. The first and second panels are sealed to each other to form a pouch and the pouch includes a main section and a channel section. The package further includes a product disposed within the pouch and the product is capable of flowing from the main section through the channel section to a tip of the pouch. The pouch includes a valve that has a curve extending transversely across the channel section. The curve is configured such that, when the product flows through the curve, the product flows by a convex side of the first panel in the curve and a concave side of the second panel in the curve. According to the present invention a portion of the first panel that includes the curve is less rigid than a portion of the second panel that includes the curve. Furthermore, the portion of the second panel that includes the curve has a valve deflection constant defined as: <MAT> where CVD is the valve deflection constant, E is a modulus of elasticity of the portion of the second panel, t is a thickness of the portion of the second panel, and D is a diameter of the concave side of the second panel in the curve when the pouch is in a resting state. Furthermore, the valve deflection constant is in a range from about <NUM> MPa to about <NUM> MPa. In a second embodiment, an initiation pressure of the valve of the package of the first embodiment is in a range from about2. <NUM> kPa to about <NUM> kPa, wherein the initiation pressure is a pressure in the product required to open the valve.

In a third embodiment, the initiation pressure of the valve of the package of the second embodiment is at least about <NUM> kPa, optionally at most about <NUM> kPa.

In a fourth embodiment, the valve deflection constant of the package of the first embodiment is at least about <NUM> MPa, optionally at most about <NUM> PMa.

In a fifth embodiment, the portion of the first panel of the package of the first embodiment that includes the curve has a valve deflection constant that is less than or equal to <NUM>% of the valve deflection constant of the portion of the second panel.

In a sixth embodiment, the valve deflection constant of the portion of the first panel of the package of the fifth embodiment is less than or equal to <NUM>%, optionally less than or equal to <NUM>%, of the valve deflection constant of the portion of the second panel.

In a seventh embodiment, the diameter of the concave side of the second panel in the curve of the package of the first embodiment is a diameter of a most acute curvature of the concave side of the second panel in the curve.

In an eighth embodiment, the first panel of the package of the first embodiment includes a first film and the second panel includes a second film, optionally wherein a rigidity of the second film is greater than a rigidity of the first film; optionally wherein the second panel further includes a stiffening layer adhered to the second film and the portion of the second panel in the curve includes the stiffening layer, further optionally a rigidity of the second film is substantially the same as a rigidity of the first film, and further optionally the first film and the second film are formed from a single sheet of film that is folded between the first and second films.

In a ninth embodiment, a ratio of a product of a thickness and a modulus of elasticity of the second film to a product of a thickness and a modulus of elasticity of the stiffening layer of the package of the first embodiment is less than or equal to about <NUM>:<NUM>.

In a tenth embodiment, the package of the first embodiment includes a frangible seal between the first and second panels located such that the valve is between the tip of the package and the frangible seal, wherein, before the frangible seal is broken, the frangible seal is configured to deter flow of the product to the valve; optionally wherein the tip of the package is open before the frangible seal is broken.

In an eleventh embodiment, the product includes at least one of a condiment or a liquid.

In a twelfth embodiment, a method is performed to dispense a product from a package according to the first embodiment. The method includes applying an external force to the main section of the pouch. Applying the external force causes (i) the product to flow from the main section to a valve in the channel section, where the valve has a curve extending transversely across the channel section, (ii) the curve in the valve to straighten at least partially from a shape of the curve in a resting state of the pouch, (iii) the product to flow through the curve by a convex side of the first panel in the curve and a concave side of the second panel in the curve, (iv) and the product to be dispensed from a tip of the pouch. The method further includes reducing the external force applied to the main section of the pouch. Reducing the external force causes the valve to return to the shape of the curve in a resting state of the pouch to deter flow of the product through the valve.

In a thirteenth embodiment, the applying of the external force to the main section of the pouch in the method of the twelfth embodiment includes manually applying the external force to the main section of the pouch.

In a fourteenth embodiment, the applying of the external force in the method of the twelfth embodiment further causes a break of a frangible seal in the pouch. Before the frangible seal is broken, the frangible seal is between the first and second panels and located such that the valve is between the tip of the pouch and the frangible seal.

In a fifteenth embodiment, the method of the twelfth embodiment further includes opening the tip of the pouch before applying the external force.

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the disclosed subject matter will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

The present disclosure describes embodiments of pouches that are useable to dispense products without the use of a dispenser. In some embodiments, the pouches have valves that dispense product when a force is manually applied to an exterior of the pouch and close to prevent leakage of the product when the force on the exterior of the pouches is reduced. In one embodiment, a package includes a first panel and a second panel that are sealed to each other to form a pouch. The pouch includes a main section and a channel section. The package further includes a product disposed within the pouch. The product is capable of flowing from the main section through the channel section to a tip of the pouch. The pouch includes a valve that has a curve extending transversely across the channel section. The curve is configured such that, when the product flows through the curve, the product flows by a convex side of the first panel in the curve and a concave side of the second panel in the curve. In some cases, a portion of the first panel that includes the curve is less rigid than a portion of the second panel that includes the curve. The valve can open to dispense product when a force is applied to an exterior of the pouch and the more-rigid concave panel can cause the valve to close when the force on the exterior of the pouch is reduced.

As used here, an "abuse layer" and the like refer to an outer film layer and/or an inner film layer, so long as the film layer serves to resist abrasion, puncture, and other potential causes of reduction of package integrity, as well as potential causes of reduction of package appearance quality. Abuse layers can comprise any polymer, so long as the polymer contributes to achieving an integrity goal and/or an appearance goal. In some embodiments, the abuse layer can comprise polyamide, ethylene/propylene copolymer, and/or combinations thereof.

As used here, "antifog" and the like refer to an agent that can be incorporated into an outermost film layer, be coated onto an outermost film layer, or migrate from an internal layer to an outermost film layer, with the effect of lowering the seal strength of a seal subsequently made. Suitable antifog agents may fall into classes such as esters of aliphatic alcohols, esters of polyglycol, polyethers, polyhydric alcohols, esters of polyhydric aliphatic alcohols, polyethoxylated aromatic alcohols, nonionic ethoxylates, and hydrophilic fatty acid esters. Useful antifog agents include polyoxyethylene, sorbitan monostearate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate, polyoxyethylene monopalmitate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan tristearate, polyoxyethylene sorbitan trioleate, poly(oxypropylene), polyethoxylated fatty alcohols, polyoxyethylated <NUM>-nonylphenol, polyhydric alcohol, propylene diol, propylene triol, and ethylene diol, monoglyceride esters of vegetable oil or animal fat, mono- and/or diglycerides such as glycerol mono- and dioleate, glyceryl stearate, monophenyl polyethoxylate, and sorbitan monolaurate. The antifog agent is incorporated in an amount effective to suitably reduce the seal strength of the film.

As used herein, "barrier", "barrier layer", and the like refer to the ability of a film or film layer to serve as a barrier to one or more gases. For example, oxygen barrier layers can comprise, but are not limited to, ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene chloride, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylonitrile, and the like, as known to those of ordinary skill in the art. In some embodiments, the barrier film or layer has an oxygen transmission rate of no more than <NUM> cc O<NUM>/m<NUM>•day•atm; less than <NUM> cc O<NUM>/m<NUM>•day•atm; less than <NUM> cc O<NUM>/m<NUM>•day•atm; less than <NUM> cc O<NUM>/m<NUM>•day•atm; less than <NUM> cc O<NUM>/m<NUM>•day•atm; or less than <NUM> cc O<NUM>/m<NUM>•day•atm (tested at <NUM> (<NUM> mil) thick and at <NUM> in accordance with ASTM D3985, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety).

As used herein, "bulk layer" and the like refer to any layer of a film that is present for the purpose of increasing the abuse-resistance, toughness, and/or modulus of a film. In some embodiments, bulk layers can comprise polyolefin, ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer, ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer plastomer, low density polyethylene, linear low density polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

As used herein, "condiment" and the like refer to (but is not limited to) ketchup, mustard, guacamole, sour cream, salsa, nacho cheese, taco sauce, barbecue sauce, tartar sauce, mayonnaise, jams, jellies, spices, and the like. In some embodiments, the term "condiment" can include any and all additives that a user can choose to add to any food item for any purpose, e.g. for organoleptic, processing, or preservative purposes.

As used herein, "container" and the like refer to tubes, bottles, jars, tubs, cylinders, vessels, flasks, chambers, and the like, whether pliable or rigid.

As used herein, "exterior" and the like refer to the outside portion of an article.

As used herein, "filled" and the like, with respect to a pouch, refer to a pouch that has been filled with a product in a manner consistent with a commercial filling operation. Thus, a pouch may or may not be <NUM>% filled.

As used herein, "film" and the like refer to a laminate, sheet, web, coating, or the like, that can be used to package a product. The film can be a rigid, semi-rigid, or flexible product. In some embodiments, the film is produced as a fully coextruded film, i.e., all layers of the film emerging from a single die at the same time. In some embodiments, the film is made using a flat cast film production process or a round cast film production process. Alternatively, the film can be made using a blown film process, double bubble process, triple bubble process, or adhesive or extrusion coating lamination.

As used herein, "flexible" and the like refer to materials that are pliable and easily deform in the presence of external forces.

As used herein, "frangible seal" and the like refer to a seal that is sufficiently durable to allow normal handling and storage, but ruptures or substantially ruptures under applied pressure. In some embodiments, suitable frangible seals will have a peel strength of from <NUM> to less than <NUM> N/mm (from <NUM> to less than <NUM> pounds/inch) as measured by ASTM F88.

As used herein, "heat seal" and the like refer to any seal of a first region of a film surface to a second region of a film surface, wherein the seal is formed by heating the regions to at least their respective seal initiation temperatures. Heat-sealing is the process of joining two or more thermoplastic films or sheets by heating areas in contact with each other to the temperature at which fusion occurs, usually aided by pressure. In some embodiments, heat-sealing can be inclusive of thermal sealing, melt-bead sealing, impulse sealing, dielectric sealing, and/or ultrasonic sealing. The heating can be performed by any one or more of a wide variety of means, such as (but not limited to) a heated bar, hot wire, hot air, infrared radiation, ultrasonic sealing, and the like.

As used herein, "interior" and the like refer to the inside portion of an article.

As used herein, "label" and the like refer to a portion of sheet or film material that can be used to construct a frangible seal in accordance with some embodiments of the frangible seals.

As used herein, "multilayer film" and the like refer to a thermoplastic film having one or more layers formed from polymeric or other materials that are bonded together by any conventional or suitable method, including one or more of the following methods: coextrusion, extrusion coating, lamination, vapor deposition coating, solvent coating, emulsion coating, or suspension coating.

As used herein, "outlet" and the like refer to an aperture, orifice, opening, chute, passage, or similar channel through which a product can exit the disclosed packaging system.

As used herein, "panel" and the like herein refer to a wall or major section of a pouch. A first and second panel can be derived from two pieces of film joined together by any suitable means, such as heat sealing. Alternatively, a single web of film can be folded into a tubular configuration, and longitudinally and transversely sealed to create a pouch exhibiting a first and second panel.

As used herein, "peelable sealant" and the like refer to any suitable polymer or polymer blend that forms at least a part of a film layer or is applied to a film layer, wherein the peelable sealant exhibits a seal strength that is less than the seal strength of the permanent sealant as described herein. In some embodiments, the peelable sealant can comprise a food grade cold seal adhesive.

As used herein, "permanent sealant" and the like refer to any suitable polymer or polymer blend that forms at least a part of a film layer or is applied to a film layer, wherein the permanent layer exhibits a seal strength that is greater than the seal strength of the peelable sealant as described herein.

As used herein, "pouch" and the like refer to any of a wide variety of containers known in the art, including (but not limited to) bags, packets, packages, and the like.

As used herein, "product" and the like refer to any of a wide variety of food or non-food items that can be packaged in the disclosed systems. In some embodiments, the product is a condiment, and/or a flowable product.

As used herein, "seal" and the like herein refer to any seal of a first region of a film surface to a second region of a film or substrate surface. In some embodiments, the seal can be formed by heating the regions to at least their respective seal initiation temperatures using a heated bar, hot air, infrared radiation, ultrasonic sealing, and the like. In some embodiments, the seal can be formed by an adhesive. Alternatively, or in addition, in some embodiments the seal can be formed using a UV or e-beam curable adhesive seal.

As used herein, "seal layer" and the like refer to an outermost film layer or layers involved in heat sealing of the film to itself, to another film layer of the same or another film, and/or another article that is not a film. "Outermost" layer herein includes a layer found on the outside of a film, i.e. a layer not bounded on both major surfaces by another film layer. Layers involved in heat sealing can include a second layer, adjacent an outermost layer, that assists in or substantially affects or influences the overall strength of the heat seal. Heat sealing can be performed by any one or more of a wide variety of manners known to those of ordinary skill in art, including using heat seal technique (e.g., melt-bead sealing, thermal sealing, impulse sealing, ultrasonic sealing, hot air, hot wire, infrared radiation, and the like), adhesive sealing, UV-curable adhesive sealing, and the like.

As used herein, "tie layer" and the like refer to an internal film layer having the primary purpose of adhering two layers to one another. In some embodiments, a tie layer can comprise any nonpolar polymer having a polar group grafted thereon, such that the polymer is capable of covalent bonding to polar polymers such as polyamide and ethylene/vinyl alcohol copolymer. In some embodiments, the tie layers can comprise modified polyolefin, modified ethylene/vinyl acetate copolymer, and/or homogeneous ethylene/alpha-olefin copolymer.

As used herein, "transparent" and the like refer to the ability of a material to transmit incident light with negligible scattering and little absorption, enabling objects to be seen clearly through the material under typical unaided viewing conditions, i.e. the expected use conditions of the material, as measured in accordance with ASTM D1746.

As used herein, "valve" and the like refer to any device by which the flow of material can be started, stopped, rerouted or regulated by a movable part that opens, closes, or partially obstructs a passageway through which the material flows. In some embodiments, a suitable valve can comprise any of an umbrella valve, duckbill valve, reed valve, ball valve, flapper valve, poppet valve, Gott valve, check valve, or any suitable combination thereof.

All compositional percentages used herein are presented on a "by weight" basis, unless designated otherwise.

The definitions and disclosure of the present application control over any inconsistent definition or disclosure present in an incorporated reference.

Depicted in <FIG> is an example of a pouch <NUM> with a product <NUM> disposed therein, wherein this pouch is not an embodiment of the present invention. The pouch <NUM> can be any of a variety of pouches known in the art, including, for example, a stand-up pouch, a gusseted stand-up pouch, a lay-flat pouch, a pouch comprising at least one longitudinal seal, and the like. Tthe pouch <NUM> includes a pair of films joined together along a pair of opposing sides and a bottom bridging the sides. Alternatively, the pouch <NUM> can be formed from a single film that has been center folded at one edge, or a pouch that includes one or more lap seals, fin seals, and/or edge seals. Alternatively, the pouch <NUM> can comprise a continuous tubular material with no longitudinal seal, but with transverse seals to form transverse ends of the pouch <NUM>. The description of pouches herein as having "first and second panels" should be understood to describe a pouch that when filled with product and laid on a surface, will display a major first surface, wall or panel, and, on the opposite side of the pouch, a second major surface, wall, or panel.

In the depicted example, the pouch <NUM> includes a first panel <NUM> and a second panel <NUM> that are sealed together about the pouch perimeter with one or more perimeter seals. Perimeter seals can be formed using any suitable method, known and used in the art, such as by the use of heat, pressure, adhesive, and/or mechanical closure. The perimeter seals include a transverse seal <NUM> and a channel seal <NUM>. The transverse seal <NUM> extends directly between longitudinal sides of the pouch <NUM> to seal one end of the pouch <NUM>. The channel seal <NUM> extends indirectly between longitudinal sides of the pouch <NUM> to seal the other end of the pouch <NUM>. The channel seal <NUM> is shaped to form a tip <NUM> from which the product <NUM> can be dispensed. The pouch <NUM> includes a main section <NUM> and a channel section <NUM>. The main section <NUM> is generally the portion of the pouch <NUM> between the transverse seal <NUM> and the channel seal <NUM>. The channel section <NUM> is generally the portion of the pouch <NUM> between the start of the channel seal <NUM> and the tip <NUM>.

<FIG> also depict a series of instances of a process of dispensing the product <NUM> from the pouch <NUM>. In <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> is sealed closed with the product <NUM> disposed therein. The product <NUM> may include a flowable product, such a condiment or a liquid. For example, in the case where the product <NUM> is a condiment, the condiment may be mustard, ketchup, salsa, guacamole, cheese sauce, sour cream, taco sauce, mayonnaise, tartar sauce, syrup, gravy, hot fudge, caramel, butterscotch toppings, flowable margarine or butter, horseradish, creamers, cream, yogurt, jelly, peanut butter, salad dressing, or any other type of condiment. In examples where the product <NUM> is a liquid, the liquid may be water, milk, lemonade, oil, or any other type of liquid.

In <FIG>, the tip <NUM> has been opened. The tip <NUM> was opened by a user cutting off the end of the channel seal <NUM> so that the tip <NUM> includes a gap between portions of the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM>. Under certain conditions, the product <NUM> is capable of flowing out of the pouch <NUM> through the gap in the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM>. In some cases, the end of the channel seal <NUM> is cut using a tool, such as a pair of scissors or a knife. In other cases, the channel seal <NUM> can include a notch or slit that permits a user to remove the end of the channel seal <NUM> manually by pulling on a tab formed by the notch or slit. In other cases, the tip <NUM> can be manufactured with a gap and the pouch <NUM> can include a frangible seal that seals the product <NUM> in the pouch <NUM> until the frangible seal is broken. Examples of frangible seals are described in <CIT>, <CIT>, and <CIT>.

In <FIG>, pressure <NUM> is applied to the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM>. The pressure <NUM> can be applied by a user manually. For example, a user can grasp the pouch <NUM> and squeeze the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> toward each other in order to apply the pressure <NUM>. Alternatively, the pressure <NUM> can be applied mechanically (e.g., by a dispenser, such as a dispenser gun that pushes on the closed end of the pouch <NUM>), pneumatically (e.g., by increasing the gas pressure outside of the pouch <NUM>), or in any other way. The pressure <NUM> applied to the pouch <NUM> causes the product <NUM> is dispensed from the tip <NUM> as dispensed product <NUM>. Under some conditions, the pressure <NUM> is sufficient to cause the dispensed product <NUM> to initially exit the pouch as a stream. Once the stream of the dispensed product <NUM> reaches a surface (e.g., a table, a tray, a container, a food product, etc.), the dispensed product <NUM> can accumulate on the surface, as shown in the depicted embodiment.

In <FIG>, the pressure <NUM> is no longer applied to the pouch <NUM>. In the depicted situation, there is no longer a stream of the dispensed product <NUM> exiting the tip <NUM> and the accumulated portions of the dispensed product <NUM> remain on the surface in front of the pouch <NUM>. However, despite the lack of external pressure applied to the pouch <NUM>, some of the product <NUM> continues to leak out of the pouch <NUM> as leaked product <NUM>. In some cases, the leaked product <NUM> exits the tip <NUM> as drops or drool of the product <NUM>. In some cases, the product <NUM> is able to pass out of the tip <NUM> to become leaked product <NUM> passively, such as under the force of gravity only. In some cases, the product <NUM> passes out of the tip <NUM> to become leaked product <NUM> due to inadvertent forces, such as when a user attempts to pick up the pouch <NUM> and inadvertently squeezes the pouch <NUM> to cause some of the product <NUM> to pass through the tip <NUM>. In some cases, the ability of the product <NUM> to inadvertently pass through the tip <NUM> is dependent on a viscosity of the product <NUM>. For example, a product having a low viscosity (e.g., having a viscosity less than or equal to about <NUM> mPa s, such as water or milk) is more likely to inadvertently pass through a pouch tip than a product having a medium viscosity (e.g., having a viscosity in a range from about <NUM> mPa·s to about <NUM> mPa s, such as olive oil) or a product having a high viscosity (e.g., having a viscosity in a range greater than or equal to about <NUM> mPa s, such as mayonnaise or ketchup).

The pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG> has a number of advantages. For example, the pouch <NUM> may be a convenient package for storing the product <NUM> before the product <NUM> is dispensed. The pouch <NUM> may also be convenient for a user to hold while dispensing the product <NUM> from the pouch <NUM>. The pouch <NUM> is also capable of being used to hold and dispense products of different viscosities (e.g., viscoelastic substances, Newtonian fluids, and non-Newtonian fluids). The pouch <NUM> is also capable of being used to hold and dispense products that are uniform (e.g., water, ketchup, etc.) and non-uniform (e.g., tartar sauce, salsa, pickle relish, etc.). The pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG> also has a number of disadvantages. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> tends to allow leaked product <NUM> to exit the tip <NUM> inadvertently. In another example, after the pouch <NUM> is opened, the pouch <NUM> cannot be closed again without the use of an external tool (e.g., a clip) to hold the tip <NUM> closed. In addition to leaking products, if the pouch <NUM> is open, the product <NUM> inside the pouch may be exposed to contamination, which is a problem particularly if the product <NUM> is a food product.

Depicted in <FIG> is a pouch <NUM> having a valve that resists product leakage and is self-closing. More specifically, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> depict first, second, third, fourth, and fifth instances, respectively, of a process of dispensing product from the pouch <NUM>. <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> depict detail views of the tip of the pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, respectively. <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> depict front perspective views of the tip of the pouch <NUM> alone (e.g., without the product) at, respectively, the first instance shown in <FIG>, the second instance shown in <FIG>, the third instance shown in <FIG>, the fourth instance shown in <FIG>, and the fifth instance shown in <FIG>. <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> depict back perspective views of the tip of the pouch <NUM> alone (e.g., without the product) at, respectively, the first instance shown in <FIG>, the second instance shown in <FIG>, the third instance shown in <FIG>, the fourth instance shown in <FIG>, and the fifth instance shown in <FIG>.

The pouch <NUM> has a product <NUM> disposed therein. In the depicted embodiment, the product <NUM> is French dressing. In other embodiments, the product <NUM> can be any other type of product. The pouch <NUM> includes a first panel <NUM> and a second panel <NUM> that are sealed together about the pouch perimeter with one or more perimeter seals. In the depicted embodiment, the perimeter seals include a channel seal <NUM>. The channel seal <NUM> is shaped to form a tip <NUM> from which the product <NUM> can be dispensed. In the depicted embodiment, the tip <NUM> is open.

The channel section of the pouch <NUM> includes a valve <NUM>. In some embodiments, the valve <NUM> extends transversely across the channel section such that the product <NUM> flows through the valve <NUM> in order to pass from the main section of the pouch <NUM> to the tip <NUM> of the pouch <NUM>. In some embodiments, the valve <NUM> extends substantially perpendicular to the flow of the product <NUM> and/or substantially parallel to the tip <NUM> of the pouch <NUM>. In other embodiments, the valve <NUM> extends transversely across the channel section (e.g., from one side of the channel section to the other side of the channel section) along a path that is neither perpendicular to the flow of the product <NUM> nor parallel to the tip <NUM> of the pouch <NUM>. The valve <NUM> has a curve that can be any type of crimp, crease, inflection, kink, or other form of a curve in the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM>. The cross-section of the valve <NUM> can be uniformly round (e.g., a semi-cylindrical crimp), can have a curvature of varying diameters (e.g., a non-uniform curvature), or have any other curved shape. In some embodiments, when the pouch <NUM> is in a resting state (e.g., no external forces are applied to the pouch <NUM>), the valve <NUM> collapses the channel section of the pouch <NUM> to deter flow of the product <NUM> through the valve <NUM>.

In the first instance shown in <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> is in a resting state. In some embodiments, a pouch is in a resting state when no external forces (e.g., no forces other than natural forces, such as gravity, ambient air pressure, and the like) are applied to the pouch. In the resting state, the valve <NUM> in the channel section of the pouch <NUM> is curved such that the valve <NUM> deters flow of the product <NUM> through the valve <NUM>. In some embodiments, the valve <NUM> collapses the channel to prevent flow of the product <NUM> through the valve <NUM> when the pouch <NUM> is in the resting state. In this condition, the product <NUM> does not flow or leak out of the tip <NUM>.

In the second instance shown in <FIG>, a user <NUM> begins to squeeze the pouch <NUM> to exert an external force on the exterior of the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> of the pouch <NUM>. As the user <NUM> increases the external force on the pouch <NUM>, the valve <NUM> begins to straighten. However, in this second instance, the pressure induced in the product <NUM> by the external force applied by the user <NUM> is insufficient to cause the valve <NUM> to open (e.g., to open completely). Thus, in the second instance, the product <NUM> is still not being dispensed from or leaking from the tip <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first panel <NUM> is less rigid than the second panel <NUM> at the valve <NUM>. Where the first panel <NUM> is less rigid than the second panel <NUM> at the valve <NUM>, the second panel <NUM> may resist the straightening of the valve <NUM> due to the increased pressure. This resistance by the second panel <NUM> increases the ability of the user <NUM> to control when the product <NUM> is able to flow through the valve <NUM>. Examples of pouches where the first panel is less rigid than the second panel at the valve are described in greater detail below.

In the third instance shown in <FIG>, the user <NUM> continues to squeeze the pouch <NUM>. In this instance, the user <NUM> is exerting sufficient external force to induce a pressure in the product <NUM> that straightens the valve <NUM> at least partially open the valve <NUM>. With the valve <NUM> open, the product <NUM> can flow through the valve <NUM> and be dispensed from the tip <NUM> as dispensed product <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the dispensed product <NUM> initially exits the tip <NUM> of the pouch <NUM> as a stream. Once the stream of the dispensed product <NUM> reaches a surface (e.g., a counter, a container, etc.), the dispensed product <NUM> accumulates on the surface. In embodiments where the user <NUM> moves the pouch <NUM> while the product <NUM> is being dispensing, the product <NUM> can accumulate on the surface in lines, curves, or any other shape based on the movements of the pouch <NUM> by the user <NUM>. As can be seen in <FIG>, the tip <NUM> of the pouch <NUM> in the depicted embodiment forms a round shape (e.g., oval shape or circle shape). The round shape of the tip <NUM> allows products that include particulates (e.g., tartar sauce, salsa, pickle relish, etc.) to be dispensed from the tip <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, as the product <NUM> flows through the curve of the valve <NUM>, the product <NUM> flows by a convex side of the first panel <NUM> in the curve and a concave side of the second panel <NUM> in the curve.

In the fourth instance depicted in <FIG>, the user <NUM> has reduced the amount of external force applied to the pouch <NUM> until the pressure induced in the product <NUM> is no longer sufficient to prevent the valve <NUM> from closing. As the valve <NUM> retracts, the valve <NUM> prevents the product <NUM> from flowing through the valve <NUM>. The product <NUM> is no longer dispensed from the tip <NUM> and the product does not leak from the tip <NUM>. In some embodiments, where the first panel <NUM> is less rigid than the second panel <NUM> at the valve <NUM>, the second panel <NUM> may cause the tube shape of the channel section to collapse when the user <NUM> reduces the amount of external force applied to the pouch <NUM>. This collapsing of the tube shape caused by the second panel <NUM> as a result of the reduced external force can cause the flow of product <NUM> through the valve <NUM> to cease before the valve <NUM> fully reaches its resting state. This collapsing action significantly reduces the possibility of inadvertent dispensing and/or leaking of the product <NUM> after the user stops dispensing the product <NUM>. Examples of pouches where the first panel is less rigid than the second panel at the valve are described in greater detail below.

In the fifth instance shown in <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> has returned to the resting state with the user <NUM> no longer exerting an external pressure on the pouch <NUM>. In the resting state, the valve <NUM> in the channel section of the pouch <NUM> is curved such that the valve <NUM> deters flow of the product <NUM> through the valve <NUM>. In some embodiments, the valve <NUM> collapses the channel to prevent flow of the product <NUM> through the valve <NUM> when the pouch <NUM> is in the resting state. In this condition, the product <NUM> does not flow or leak out of the tip <NUM>.

In the series of the first to fifth instances shown in <FIG>, the ability of the pouch <NUM> to dispense the product <NUM> when desired and to prevent flow of the product <NUM> when dispensing is not desired depends on the operation of the valve <NUM>. In particular, it may be desirable for the valve <NUM> to function so that the valve <NUM> permits the product <NUM> to flow when the user <NUM> intends to dispense the product <NUM> and so that the valve <NUM> does not permit the product <NUM> to flow when the user <NUM> does not intend to dispense the product <NUM>. For example, when the user <NUM> exerts a force on the pouch <NUM> that exceeds a threshold amount, the valve <NUM> should react by opening at least partially to permit the product <NUM> to flow to the tip <NUM>. Similarly, when the user <NUM> exerts a force on the pouch <NUM> that does exceed the threshold amount and/or when the user <NUM> does not exert a force on the pouch <NUM>, the valve <NUM> should react by closing to a position where the channel is collapsed and the product <NUM> is not able to flow to the tip <NUM>.

For the product <NUM> to be dispensed from the pouch <NUM>, the pressure induced in the product <NUM> by an external force will exceed a threshold that causes the curve in the valve <NUM> to straighten at least partially. A number of variables impact the ease or difficulty to sufficiently straighten the valve <NUM>. Among those variables are the modulus of the material of the concave panel at the curve of the valve <NUM>, the diameter of the curve of the valve <NUM>, and the thickness of the material of the concave panel at the curve.

In some cases, the modulus of elasticity (or, as occasionally used herein and elsewhere, simply "modulus") can be the ratio of the stress applied to a material to the strain in the material. Stress can be defined as the ratio of force per area and strain can be defined as the percent change in length of the material due to the force applied. In the context of the valve <NUM>, a force is applied to the second panel <NUM> by the pressure in the product <NUM> against the surface of the second panel <NUM> at the curve of the valve <NUM>. The result of this force is the elastic deflection of the second panel <NUM> from the concave curve shape to a straighter shape. In general, a higher modulus necessitates a greater amount of force to open the valve <NUM>. Conversely, a lower modulus allows the valve <NUM> to open with less force. This is analogous to a cantilevered beam in bending. A beam with a higher modulus (e.g., steel) will require more force to cause deflection than a beam with a lower modulus (e.g., wood). The elastic modulus of a material can also be described as its resistance to elastic deformation. This relationship is frequently referred to as the ratio of stress to strain. In some embodiments, the modulus of elasticity for a given material is measured as the Young's modulus according to ASTM E111 -<NUM>. The modulus of a material is an intrinsic property of a material.

The thickness of a material also affects the amount of deflection for a given force. The thickness of the material relates to the amount of mass of the material that is strained during any deflection process. For example, between a thicker material and a thinner material that have the same modulus of elasticity, the thicker material would have more mass to be strained during any deflection process, thereby requiring a greater force to cause a deflection. Conversely, the thinner material would have less mass to be strained during any deflection process and would therefore require less force to cause a deflection. This is analogous to a cantilevered beam in bending. A thicker beam will require more force to cause deflection.

In the depicted embodiment, the valve <NUM> is formed from portions of the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> that are flexible (e.g., moveable) surfaces. In the case where the valve <NUM> is formed from a flexible surface, the pressure in the product <NUM> exerts an open force where the product <NUM> is in contact the flexible surfaces. Where the valve <NUM> has a curve transversely across the channel section, the pressure constantly applies a force against and normal to the surface of the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM>. The amount of deflection required to open the valve <NUM> is dependent on the total arc (or how far the material is curved in terms of degrees or radians) and is not necessarily dependent on the diameter of the curve. However, as the diameter of the curve increases, the ratio of surface available versus amount of deflection increases. And, as the surface area increases, a lower pressure is required to apply the same force. Thus, the greater the diameter of the curve in the valve <NUM>, the lower the amount of pressure in the product <NUM> needed to open the valve. Similarly, the lower the diameter of the curve in the valve <NUM>, the higher the amount of pressure in the product <NUM> needed to open the valve.

In embodiments where the valve <NUM> includes a curve transversely across the channel section, the valve <NUM> will have two panels that form the curve. In the depicted embodiment, the curve of the valve <NUM> is formed by the first panel <NUM> and the second panel <NUM>. The first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> are arranged so that, when the product <NUM> flows through the curve, the product <NUM> flows by a convex side of the first panel <NUM> in the curve and a concave side of the second panel <NUM> in the curve. Moreover, the portion of the first panel <NUM> that includes the curve is less rigid than the portion of the second panel <NUM> that includes the curve. In this context, the function of the valve <NUM> is affected significantly more by the second panel <NUM>-the stiffer, concave panel-than the first panel <NUM>-the less stiff, convex panel. Thus, in some cases, only the characteristics (e.g., the modulus of elasticity, the thickness, and the diameter) of the portion of the second panel <NUM> in the curve may need to be taken into account in order to determine the function of the valve <NUM>.

Depicted in <FIG> are side views of various embodiments of profiles of valves in the pouch <NUM>. In each of the embodiments shown in <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> includes a valve having a curve that extends transversely across a channel section. The valve is configured such that, when the product flows through the curve, the product flows by a convex side of the first panel <NUM> in the curve and a concave side of the second panel <NUM> in the curve. The pouch <NUM> is depicted in a resting state in each of the embodiments, with the product <NUM> located in the volume of the pouch <NUM> upstream of the valve but where the valve prevents flow of the product <NUM> past the valve <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> includes a valve <NUM> having a curve of substantially uniform curvature before straightening out before the tip <NUM>. The substantially uniform curvature of the valve <NUM> is shown in the depiction by a circle <NUM> in dashed lines. The diameter of the valve <NUM> can be the diameter <NUM> of the curvature (e.g., the diameter of the circle <NUM>). The modulus of elasticity of the valve <NUM> can be the modulus of elasticity of the second panel <NUM> in the curve. The thickness of the valve <NUM> can be the thickness of the second panel <NUM> in the curve.

In <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> includes a valve <NUM> having a non-uniform curve leading up to the tip <NUM>. In other words, the diameter of the curvature varies through the curve. In the depicted embodiment, a circle <NUM> is shown by a circle <NUM> in dashed lines at the most acute curvature of the valve <NUM>. In some embodiments, the most acute curvature of the valve <NUM> has the greatest effect on the openability of the valve <NUM> because the most acute curvature of the valve <NUM> is the most difficult portion to force open. Thus, for purposes of determining or classifying the function of the valve <NUM>, the diameter of the valve <NUM> can be the diameter <NUM> of the most acute curvature (e.g., the diameter of the circle <NUM>) in the curve. The modulus of elasticity of the valve <NUM> can be the modulus of elasticity of the second panel <NUM> in the most acute curvature of the curve. The thickness of the valve <NUM> can be the thickness of the second panel <NUM> in the most acute curvature of the curve.

In <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> includes a valve <NUM> having a curve of substantially uniform curvature before straightening out near the tip <NUM>. The substantially uniform curvature of the valve <NUM> is shown in the depiction by a circle <NUM> in dashed lines. The diameter of the valve <NUM> can be the diameter <NUM> of the curvature (e.g., the diameter of the circle <NUM>). The modulus of elasticity of the valve <NUM> can be the modulus of elasticity of the second panel <NUM> in the curve. The thickness of the valve <NUM> can be the thickness of the second panel <NUM> in the curve. In <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> also includes a secondary curve <NUM> where the less rigid first panel <NUM> is a concave curve and the more rigid second panel <NUM> is a convex curve. The curvature of the secondary curve <NUM> is shown in the depiction by a circle <NUM> in dashed lines. The diameter of the secondary curve <NUM> is the diameter <NUM> of the curvature (e.g., the diameter of the circle <NUM>). However, because the first panel <NUM> is less rigid than the second panel <NUM> and the first panel <NUM> has the concave curve in the secondary curve <NUM>, the secondary curve <NUM> is much easier to open than the curve of the valve <NUM>. Thus, while the secondary curve <NUM> is more acute that the curve of the valve <NUM>, the characteristics of the secondary curve <NUM> would not have a significant effect on the operation of the valve <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the pouch <NUM> includes a valve <NUM> having a curve of substantially uniform curvature before straightening out near the tip <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the valve <NUM> is a crimp that extends transversely across the channel section. Even though the crimp is creates the appearance of a fold, the result of the crimp results in a relatively small-diameter curve of the valve <NUM>. The curvature of the valve <NUM> is shown in the depiction by a circle <NUM> in dashed lines. The diameter of the valve <NUM> can be the diameter <NUM> of the curvature (e.g., the diameter of the circle <NUM>). The modulus of elasticity of the valve <NUM> can be the modulus of elasticity of the second panel <NUM> in the curve. The thickness of the valve <NUM> can be the thickness of the second panel <NUM> in the curve.

In order to classify or predict the operation of any of the valves described herein, a valve deflection constant can be calculated based on the characteristics of the more rigid, concave panel in the valve. The valve deflection constant can be based on one or more of the modulus of elasticity of the valve, the thickness of the material, and/or the diameter of the curve of the valve. As discussed above, in some embodiments, the pressure in the product required to open the valve (herein referred to as the "initiation pressure") can vary directly with the modulus of elasticity, directly with the thickness of the material, and indirectly with the diameter of the curve of the valve. For example, the valve deflection constant can be defined as: <MAT> where CVD is the valve deflection constant; E is a modulus of elasticity of the portion of the more rigid, concave panel in the curve; t is a thickness of the portion of the more rigid, concave panel in the curve; and D is a diameter of the concave side of the more rigid panel in the curve when the pouch is in a resting state. Examples of relationships between the valve deflection constant and the initiation pressure are described in greater detail below.

In embodiments disclosed herein, pouches include a valve formed from two panels, where the valve has a curve extending transversely across a channel section of the pouch, one panel is more rigid than the other, and an interior side of the more rigid panel is a concave curve in the valve. With these characteristics, the pouches can be formed with a variety of different structures and configurations. Depicted in <FIG> are exploded views of various embodiments of structures and configurations for the pouches described herein.

<FIG> depicts a portion of a pouch <NUM>. The pouch includes a first panel <NUM> and a second panel <NUM>. In the depicted exploded view, the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> are separated from each other; however, the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> would otherwise be sealed to each other to form the pouch <NUM>, including a main section <NUM> and a channel section <NUM> of the pouch <NUM>. For example, the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> can be sealed to each other along one or both longitudinal sides of the main section <NUM> and the channel section <NUM>. Although not shown in <FIG>, a product can be disposed in the main section <NUM> of the pouch <NUM> and the product is capable of flowing from the main section <NUM>, through the channel section <NUM>, and out of a tip <NUM>. A dispensing path <NUM> of the product through the channel section <NUM> and out of the tip <NUM> is indicated in the figure by an arrow. In the depicted embodiment, the main section <NUM> has a substantially constant width and the channel section <NUM> has a narrowing width that narrows from the width of the main section <NUM> to the width of the tip <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the tip <NUM> is substantially centered between the sides of the main section <NUM> (sometimes called a "centered tip" design).

The pouch <NUM> includes a valve <NUM> that extends transversely across the channel section <NUM>. The valve <NUM> includes a curve that extends transversely across the channel section <NUM>. The curve in the valve <NUM> is configured such that, when the product flows through the curve (e.g., along the path <NUM>), the product flows by a convex side of the first panel <NUM> in the curve and a concave side of the second panel <NUM> in the curve. The curve in the valve <NUM> includes a portion <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> and a portion <NUM> of the second panel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the portion <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> that includes the curve is less rigid than the portion <NUM> of the second panel <NUM> that includes the curve. In the depicted embodiment, the first panel <NUM> includes a film <NUM> and the second panel <NUM> includes a film <NUM>. The film <NUM> of the second panel <NUM> has a rigidity that is greater than the film <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> so that, in the valve <NUM>, the product passes by the concave side of the more rigid film <NUM> and the convex side of the less rigid film <NUM>. For example, the film <NUM> can have a greater thickness and/or a higher modulus of elasticity than the film <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a portion of a pouch <NUM>. The pouch includes a first panel <NUM> and a second panel <NUM>. In the depicted exploded view, the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> are separated from each other; however, the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> would otherwise be sealed to each other to form the pouch <NUM>, including a main section <NUM> and a channel section <NUM> of the pouch <NUM>. For example, the first and second panels <NUM> and <NUM> can be sealed to each other along one or both longitudinal sides of the main section <NUM> and the channel section <NUM>. Although not shown in the depiction, a product can be disposed in the main section <NUM> of the pouch <NUM> and the product is capable of flowing from the main section <NUM>, through the channel section <NUM>, and out of a tip <NUM>. A dispensing path <NUM> of the product through the channel section <NUM> and out of the tip <NUM> is indicated in the figure by an arrow. In the depicted embodiment, the main section <NUM> has a substantially constant width and the channel section <NUM> has a narrowing width that narrows from the width of the main section <NUM> to the width of the tip <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the tip <NUM> is substantially aligned with one side of the pouch <NUM> (sometimes called a "piping bag" design).

The pouch <NUM> includes a valve <NUM> that extends transversely across the channel section <NUM>. The valve <NUM> includes a curve that extends transversely across the channel section <NUM>. The curve in the valve <NUM> is configured such that, when the product flows through the curve (e.g., along the path <NUM>), the product flows by a convex side of the first panel <NUM> in the curve and a concave side of the second panel <NUM> in the curve. The curve in the valve <NUM> includes a portion <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> and a portion <NUM> of the second panel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the portion <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> that includes the curve is less rigid than the portion <NUM> of the second panel <NUM> that includes the curve. In the depicted embodiment, the first panel <NUM> includes a film <NUM> and the second panel <NUM> includes a film <NUM>. The film <NUM> of the second panel <NUM> has a rigidity that is greater than the film <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> so that, in the valve <NUM>, the product passes by the concave side of the more rigid film <NUM> and the convex side of the less rigid film <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a variation of the pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In <FIG>, the first panel <NUM> includes the film <NUM> and the second panel <NUM> includes the film <NUM> and a stiffening layer <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the stiffening layer <NUM> is adhered to the film <NUM>. As can be seen in the depicted embodiment, the path <NUM> of the product, when passing through the valve <NUM>, passes by the concave side of the stiffening layer <NUM>. In some embodiments, the stiffening layer <NUM> has a rigidity that is greater than a rigidity of each of the film <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> and the film <NUM> of the second panel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> have substantially the same rigidity. For example, the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> can be formed from a single sheet of film that is folded between the film <NUM> and the film <NUM>. Where the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> have substantially the same rigidity, the portion <NUM> of the second panel <NUM> has a greater rigidity than the portion <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> due to the additional rigidity of the stiffening layer <NUM>. In some embodiments, the rigidity of the stiffening layer <NUM> is substantially greater than the rigidity of the film <NUM> such that the valve deflection constant can be calculated based only on the characteristics of the stiffening layer <NUM> (e.g., the characteristics of the film <NUM> can be ignored during the calculation of the valve deflection constant). In some embodiments, the valve deflection constant can be calculated based only on the stiffening layer <NUM> when the rigidity of the film <NUM> is less than or equal to one or more of <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, or <NUM>% of the rigidity of the stiffening layer <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a variation of the pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In <FIG>, the first panel <NUM> includes the film <NUM> and the second panel <NUM> includes the film <NUM> and a stiffening layer <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the stiffening layer <NUM> is adhered to the film <NUM>. As can be seen in the depicted embodiment, the path <NUM> of the product, when passing through the valve <NUM>, passes by the concave side of the stiffening layer <NUM>. In some embodiments, the stiffening layer <NUM> has a rigidity that is greater than a rigidity of each of the film <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> and the film <NUM> of the second panel <NUM>. In some embodiments, the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> have substantially the same rigidity. For example, the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> can be formed from a single sheet of film that is folded between the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> to form the pouch <NUM>. Where the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> have substantially the same rigidity, the portion <NUM> of the second panel <NUM> has a greater rigidity than the portion <NUM> of the first panel <NUM> due to the additional rigidity of the stiffening layer <NUM>. In some embodiments, the rigidity of the stiffening layer <NUM> is substantially greater than the rigidity of the film <NUM> such that the valve deflection constant can be calculated based only on the characteristics of the stiffening layer <NUM> (e.g., the characteristics of the film <NUM> can be ignored during the calculation of the valve deflection constant). In some embodiments, the valve deflection constant can be calculated based only on the stiffening layer <NUM> when the rigidity of the film <NUM> is less than or equal to one or more of <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, or <NUM>% of the rigidity of the stiffening layer <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a variation of the pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In <FIG>, the first panel <NUM> includes the film <NUM> and the second panel <NUM> includes the film <NUM> and the stiffening layer <NUM>. The pouch <NUM> in <FIG> also includes a frangible seal <NUM>. In some embodiments, the frangible seal <NUM> is located between the main section <NUM> and the valve <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the frangible seal <NUM> includes two labels. An outer face of a first label is permanently adhered to the film <NUM> and an outer face of a second label is permanently adhered to the stiffening layer <NUM>. In other embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the outer face of the second label can be permanently adhered to the film <NUM>. In the exploded view shown in <FIG>, the inner faces of the labels are separated from each other; however, the inner faces of the labels may not otherwise be separated from each other. In some embodiments, before the first dispensing of the product from the pouch <NUM>, a peelable sealant layer is positioned adjacent to each of the inner surfaces of the two labels. In this way, the product disposed in the main section <NUM> is prevented from flowing to the valve <NUM> by the frangible seal <NUM>. The peelable sealant can have a seal strength, such as a strength less than or equal to about <NUM> pounds per square inch (<NUM> kPa), such that a user can break the seal between the two labels by exerting an external force on the pouch to induce a pressure in the product that exceeds the seal strength of the frangible seal <NUM>. Embodiments of frangible seals are described in the above-mentioned <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

<FIG> depicts a variation of the pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In <FIG>, the first panel <NUM> includes the film <NUM> and the second panel <NUM> includes the film <NUM> and the stiffening layer <NUM>. The pouch <NUM> in <FIG> also includes a frangible seal <NUM>. In some embodiments, the frangible seal <NUM> is located between the main section <NUM> and the valve <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the frangible seal <NUM> includes two labels. An outer face of a first label is permanently adhered to the film <NUM> and an outer face of a second label is permanently adhered to the stiffening layer <NUM>. In other embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in <FIG>, the outer face of the second label can be permanently adhered to the film <NUM>. In the exploded view shown in <FIG>, the inner faces of the labels are separated from each other; however, the inner faces of the labels may not otherwise be separated from each other. In some embodiments, before the first dispensing of the product from the pouch <NUM>, a peelable sealant layer is positioned adjacent to each of the inner surfaces of the two labels. In this way, the product disposed in the main section <NUM> is prevented from flowing to the valve <NUM> by the frangible seal <NUM>. The peelable sealant can have a seal strength, such as a strength less than or equal to about <NUM> pounds per square inch (<NUM> kPa), such that a user can break the seal between the two labels by exerting an external force on the pouch to induce a pressure in the product that exceeds the seal strength of the frangible seal <NUM>.

Depicted in <FIG> are front and side views, respectively, of the embodiment of the pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG> with a product <NUM> disposed in the main section <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted, the frangible seal <NUM> has not yet been broken (e.g., before the first dispensing of the product <NUM> from the pouch <NUM>) and the frangible seal <NUM> is preventing the product <NUM> from flowing to the valve <NUM>. As noted above, the valve deflection constant of the second panel <NUM> (e.g., the valve deflection constant of the stiffening layer <NUM>) can be indicative of the operation of the valve <NUM>, such as the amount of initiation pressure needed to open the valve <NUM> and permit the product <NUM> to flow through the valve <NUM>. The valve deflection constant can be based on one or more of the modulus of elasticity of the portion <NUM> second panel <NUM> in the valve <NUM>, the thickness of the material of the portion <NUM> second panel <NUM> in the valve <NUM>, and/or the diameter of the curve (shown as D in the depiction) of the portion <NUM> second panel <NUM> in the valve <NUM>. <FIG> also depicted other characteristics that may affect the function of the valve, such as one or more of a width wt of the tip <NUM>, a width wv of the valve <NUM>, a depth d of the valve <NUM>, a length l from the tip <NUM> to the valve <NUM>, or an angle α between respective sides of the channel section <NUM>.

Depicted in <FIG> are front and side views, respectively, of the embodiment of the pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG> with a product <NUM> disposed in the main section <NUM>. In the embodiment depicted, the frangible seal <NUM> has not yet been broken (e.g., before the first dispensing of the product <NUM> from the pouch <NUM>) and the frangible seal <NUM> is preventing the product <NUM> from flowing to the valve <NUM>. As noted above, the valve deflection constant of the second panel <NUM> (e.g., the valve deflection constant of the stiffening layer <NUM>) can be indicative of the operation of the valve <NUM>, such as the amount of initiation pressure needed to open the valve <NUM> and permit the product <NUM> to flow through the valve <NUM>. The valve deflection constant is based on the modulus of modulus of elasticity of the portion <NUM> of the second panel <NUM> in the valve <NUM>, the thickness of the material of the portion <NUM> of the second panel <NUM> in the valve <NUM>, and the diameter of the curve (shown as D in the depiction) of the portion <NUM> of the second panel <NUM> in the valve <NUM>. <FIG> also depicted other characteristics that may affect the function of the valve, such as one or more of a width wt of the tip <NUM>, a width wv of the valve <NUM>, a depth d of the valve <NUM>, a length l from the tip <NUM> to the valve <NUM>, or an angle α between respective sides of the channel section <NUM>.

In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the initiation pressure of a valve can be the pressure in the product at which the valve opens sufficiently to permit the product to flow through the valve. The initiation pressure of a pouch is a significant factor in the "feel" of the pouch to a user and the effectiveness of the function of the pouch. In one example, if the initiation pressure is lower than a lower pressure threshold, the valve will be very slow to close or may not close at all. Valves with very low initiation pressures may allow product to leak or to be dispensed with very little external force. For example, the product may leak out of the pouch with the small force applied to the pouch when a user merely picks up the pouch. This can result in dispensing the product from the pouch when the user does not intend to dispense the product from the pouch. In some embodiments, the lower pressure threshold is at or about <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa).

In another example, if the initiation pressure is higher than an upper pressure threshold, the user will need to apply a significant force on the exterior of the pouch in order to induce sufficient pressure in the product to dispense the product. Not only may it be difficult for a user to apply such a force to the exterior of the pouch, such a significant force applied by the user can cause damage to the pouch. Examples of such damage include deformation of one of the first and second panels where the user exerts the force, deformation of one of the first and second panels due to bulging from the product, breaching of a seal between the first and second panels, and the like. In addition, when the valve opens only after reaching or exceeding the upper pressure threshold, the flow rate through the valve may be very high due to the high pressure in the product. This may result in the user dispensing a higher volume of the product than desired as soon as the valve is opened. In some embodiments, the upper pressure threshold is at or about <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa).

In some cases, the range between the lower pressure threshold and the upper pressure threshold is considered a "functional" pressure range. In some embodiments, the functional pressure range is a range (i) in which a user can open the value without applying force that may deform the pouch and (ii) in which the valve will likely not allow the product to flow when the user does not intend to dispense the product. In some embodiments, the functional pressure range is between about <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa) and about <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa). In some embodiments, pouches with valves having an initiation pressure in the functional pressure range are suitable for use in a wide variety of settings.

In some embodiments, pouches with valves having an initiation pressure in a specific pressure range within the functional pressure range may be particularly adept for certain settings. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the specific pressure range to have a lower specific pressure threshold that is higher that the lower pressure threshold of the functional pressure range. For example, in the embodiment where the functional pressure range has a lower pressure threshold of <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa), a specific pressure range may have a lower specific pressure threshold of <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa). Valves having an initiation pressure at or above the lower specific pressure threshold may exhibit desirable "spring back" characteristics, such as faster closing of the valve as the user reduces the force on the exterior of the pouch, greater likelihood that the valve will not leak when dispensing is not intended, and the like. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the specific pressure range to have an upper specific pressure threshold that is lower that the upper pressure threshold of the functional pressure range. For example, in the embodiment where the functional pressure range has an upper pressure threshold of <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa), a specific pressure range may have an upper specific pressure threshold of <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa). Valves having an initiation pressure at or below the upper specific pressure threshold may be easier for a user to open (e.g., less force needs to be applied to the exterior of the pouch to open the valve), the flow rate of the product out of the pouch may be more easily controlled, and the like. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the specific pressure range to have a lower specific pressure threshold that is higher that the lower pressure threshold of the functional pressure range and an upper specific pressure threshold that is lower that the upper pressure threshold of the functional pressure range. For example, in the embodiment where the functional pressure range has a lower pressure threshold of <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa) and an upper pressure threshold of <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa), a specific pressure range may have a lower specific pressure threshold of <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa) and an upper specific pressure threshold of <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa).

As noted above, the initiation pressure of a valve in a pouch may be related to the valve deflection constant of the valve. This relationship was tested using pouches similar to the embodiment of the pouch <NUM> shown in <FIG>. In the tested pouches, the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> were made from the same "body film" that was <NUM> mil (<NUM>) thick, include a first linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) layer with a thickness of <NUM> mil (<NUM>), a polyamide layer with a thickness of <NUM> mil (<NUM>), and a second LLDPE layer with a thickness of <NUM> mil (<NUM>). The film <NUM> and the film <NUM> were formed by folding a single sheet of the body film and sealing the body film to itself so that the fold between the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> was on one longitudinal side of the pouch and a seal between the film <NUM> and the film <NUM> was on the other longitudinal side of the pouch. The body film had a modulus of elasticity of <NUM> kpsi (<NUM> MPa).

A number of different stiffening layers <NUM> were tested in the pouches. Some of the pouches had a stiffening layer <NUM> made from a semi-rigid polymer sheet with a primary bulk layer of polyvinyl chloride adjacent to a thin tie layer and a thin sealant layer (referred to herein as a "PVC" stiffening layer). The adhesive layer of the PVC stiffening layer was used to adhere the stiffening layer <NUM> to the film <NUM>. PVC stiffening layers with thickness of <NUM> mil (<NUM>), <NUM> mil (<NUM>), and <NUM> mil (<NUM>) were used in various ones of the tested pouches. Others of the pouches had a stiffening layer <NUM> made from a semi-rigid polymer sheet with a primary bulk layer of polyethylene terephthalate glycol adjacent to a thin tie layer and a thin sealant layer (referred to herein as a "PETG" stiffening layer). The adhesive layer of the PETG stiffening layer was used to adhere the stiffening layer <NUM> to the film <NUM>. PETG stiffening layers with thickness of <NUM> mil (<NUM>) and <NUM> mil (<NUM>) were used in various ones of the tested pouches.

The valve <NUM> was formed in the channel section <NUM> of each pouch by crimping the channel section <NUM> using a cylindrical rod. A number of rods of varying diameters were used to crimp the pouches so that the pouches with a number of different curve diameters were used. After crimping, the minimum diameter of the concave side of the stiffening layer <NUM> was measured to determine the diameter of the curve of the valve <NUM>. Measured diameters varied from <NUM> in (<NUM>) to <NUM> (<NUM>).

A valve deflection constant was calculated for each of the pouches. The valve deflection constant was calculated as: <MAT> where CVD was the valve deflection constant; E was the modulus of elasticity of the portion of the stiffening layer <NUM> that includes the concave curve; t is a thickness of the stiffening layer <NUM>; and D is a diameter of the concave side of the stiffening layer <NUM> in a resting state. In this embodiment, the valve deflection constant was calculated based on the stiffening layer <NUM> and did not include the portion of the film <NUM> in the valve <NUM>. One reason why the valve deflection constant was calculated based on the stiffening layer <NUM> alone related to the respective products of the thickness and the modulus of elasticity (E×t) of the film <NUM> and the stiffening layer <NUM>. In particular, the ratio of the product of the thickness and the modulus of elasticity of the film <NUM> to the product of the thickness and the modulus of elasticity of the stiffening layer <NUM> in the tested pouches was between <NUM>:<NUM> and <NUM>:<NUM>. In some cases, the valve deflection constant can be calculated based on the stiffening layer <NUM> alone if the ratio of the product of the thickness and the modulus of elasticity of the film <NUM> to the product of the thickness and the modulus of elasticity of the stiffening layer <NUM> is less than or equal to about <NUM>:<NUM>. This relationship can be stated as: <MAT> where Ef is the modulus of elasticity of the film <NUM>, tf is the thickness of the film <NUM>, Es is the modulus of elasticity of the stiffening layer <NUM>, and ts is the thickness of the stiffening layer <NUM>. In other embodiments, the valve deflection constant can be calculated based on a portion of the entire first panel <NUM>-including both the stiffening layer <NUM> and the film <NUM>-in the valve <NUM>.

Once the pouches were formed and the valve deflection constant for each pouch was calculated, the initiation pressure of each pouch was measured. More specifically, the pouches were placed into a parallel plate compression where a force was applied to the exterior of the pouch as the plates closed. The pressure in the product was measured at the point when valve opened to releasing product through the spout. The measured pressure at this point was recorded as the initiation pressure for the valve of the pouch. Provided here in Table <NUM> are the results of the tested pouches. For each tested pouch, Table <NUM> includes the material type of the stiffening layer, the thickness of the stiffening layer, the modulus of elasticity of the stiffening layer, the measured curve diameter of the stiffening layer, the calculated valve deflection constant, and the measured initiation pressure.

<FIG> depicts a chart <NUM> of the measured initiation pressure in Table <NUM> plotted against the calculated valve deflection constant. As can be seen, there appears to be a relationship between the calculated valve deflection constant and the measured initiation pressure. In particular, a lower calculated valve deflection constant corresponds with a lower initiation pressure and a higher calculated valve deflection constant corresponds with a higher initiation pressure.

The chart <NUM> shows a lower pressure threshold <NUM> and an upper pressure threshold <NUM>. The lower pressure threshold <NUM> and the upper pressure threshold <NUM> form the boundaries of a functional pressure range <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the lower pressure threshold <NUM> is <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa) and the upper pressure threshold <NUM> is <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa). Thus, the functional pressure range <NUM> in the depicted embodiment is a range between about <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa) and about <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa). Below the functional pressure range <NUM> is a lower non-functional pressure range <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the lower non-functional pressure range <NUM> is below about <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa). In the lower non-functional pressure range <NUM>, pouch valves may not fully close after dispensing, resulting in leaking of product or inadvertent dispensing of product when applying low forces to the exterior of the pouch. Above the functional pressure range <NUM> is an upper non-functional pressure range <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the upper non-functional pressure range <NUM> is above about <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa). In the upper non-functional pressure range <NUM>, pouch valves may not open without an unreasonably high force applied to the outside of the pouch, resulting in deformation of the pouch due to the high force or dispensing of higher-than-desired volumes of product as soon as the valve opens.

In the depicted embodiment, the chart <NUM> shows a lower specific pressure threshold <NUM> and an upper specific pressure threshold <NUM>. The lower specific pressure threshold <NUM> and the upper specific pressure threshold <NUM> form the boundaries of a specific pressure range <NUM> that falls within the functional pressure range <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the lower specific pressure threshold <NUM> is <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa) and the upper specific pressure threshold <NUM> is <NUM> psi (<NUM> kPa). In some embodiments, the pouches with valves having an initiation pressure in a specific pressure range within the functional pressure range may be particularly adept for certain settings. For example, valves having an initiation pressure at or above the lower specific pressure threshold may exhibit desirable spring back characteristics and valves having an initiation pressure at or below the upper specific pressure threshold may be easy for a user to dispense product and/or control the flow rate of the product being dispensed.

As can be seen in the chart <NUM>, some of the tested pouches fell in each of the functional pressure range <NUM>, the lower non-functional pressure range <NUM>, the upper non-functional pressure range <NUM>, and the specific pressure range <NUM>. In general, the tested pouches that fell in the lower non-functional pressure range <NUM> had lower valve deflection constant values. The chart <NUM> shows a lower valve deflection constant (VDC) threshold <NUM>, below which all of the tested pouches in the lower non-functional pressure range <NUM> fell. In the depicted embodiment, the lower VDC threshold <NUM> is <NUM> kpsi (<NUM> MPa). The range of valve deflection constants below the lower VDC threshold <NUM> is a low-functional VDC range <NUM> where most of the test pouches fell outside of the functional pressure range <NUM>. Thus, in some embodiments, it would be advantageous for a pouch to be designed so that the valve deflection constant is at or above the lower VDC threshold <NUM>.

In general, the tested pouches that fell in the upper non-functional pressure range <NUM> had higher valve deflection constant values. The chart <NUM> shows an upper VDC threshold <NUM>, above which all of the tested pouches in the upper non-functional pressure range <NUM> fell. The upper VDC threshold <NUM> is <NUM> kpsi (<NUM> MPa). The range of valve deflection constants above the upper VDC threshold <NUM> is a low-functional VDC range <NUM> where most of the test pouches fell outside of the functional pressure range <NUM>. Thus, it is required according to the present invention for a pouch to be designed so that the valve deflection constant of the pouch is at or below the upper VDC threshold <NUM> of <NUM> Mpa.

Between the lower VDC threshold <NUM> and the upper VDC threshold <NUM> is a functional VDC range <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, all of the tested pouches with a valve deflection constant in the functional VDC range <NUM> also had an initiation pressure in the functional pressure range <NUM>. Thus, in some embodiments, it would be advantageous for a pouch to be designed so that the valve deflection constant of the pouch is in the functional VDC range <NUM>. According to the present invention it is required for the pouch to be designed so that the valve deflection constant of the pouch is in the functional VDC range <NUM> between about <NUM> kpsi (<NUM> MPa) and about <NUM> kpsi (<NUM> MPa).

While all of the pouches in the functional VDC range <NUM> have an initiation pressure in the functional pressure range <NUM>, not all of the pouches with valve deflection constants in the functional VDC range <NUM> may have a desired initiation pressure for a particular situation. For example, it may be advantageous for the pouches to have an initiation pressure that falls within the specific pressure range <NUM>. As can be seen in the chart <NUM>, the pouches with valve deflection constants toward the lower end of the functional VDC range <NUM> tend to have initiation pressures that are below the specific pressure range <NUM>. Similarly, the pouches with valve deflection constants toward the upper end of the functional VDC range <NUM> tend to have initiation pressures that are above the specific pressure range <NUM>.

In some embodiments, it may be advantageous to for a higher percentage of the pouches to have initiation pressures that fall within the specific pressure range <NUM>. The chart <NUM> shows a lower specific VDC threshold <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the lower specific VDC threshold <NUM> is selected such that a majority of the pouches with initiation pressures in the functional pressure range <NUM> but below the specific pressure range <NUM> fall below the lower specific VDC threshold <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the lower specific VDC threshold <NUM> is <NUM> kpsi (<NUM> MPa). The chart <NUM> shows an upper specific VDC threshold <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the upper specific VDC threshold <NUM> is selected such that a majority of the pouches with initiation pressures in the functional pressure range <NUM> but above the specific pressure range <NUM> fall above the upper specific VDC threshold <NUM>. In the depicted embodiment, the lower specific VDC threshold <NUM> is <NUM> kpsi (<NUM> MPa). In some embodiments, the lower specific VDC threshold <NUM> and the upper specific VDC threshold <NUM> bound a specific VDC range <NUM>. In some embodiments, the lower specific VDC threshold <NUM> and the upper specific VDC threshold <NUM> are selected such that a majority of the pouches with valve deflection constants in the specific VDC range <NUM> have initiation pressures in the specific pressure range <NUM>. Thus, in the depicted embodiment, it may be advantageous for a pouch to be designed so that the valve deflection constant of the pouch is in the specific VDC range <NUM> between about <NUM> kpsi (<NUM> MPa) and about <NUM> kpsi (<NUM> MPa).

For purposes of this disclosure, terminology such as "upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," "inwardly," "outwardly," "inner," "outer," "front," "rear," and the like, should be construed as descriptive and not limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter. Further, the use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless limited otherwise, the terms "connected," "coupled," and "mounted" and variations thereof herein are used broadly and encompass direct and indirect connections, couplings, and mountings. Unless stated otherwise, the terms "substantially," "approximately," and the like are used to mean within <NUM>% of a target value.

Claim 1:
A package comprising:
a first panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
a second panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the first and second panels (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are sealed to each other to form a pouch (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the pouch (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) includes a main section (<NUM>, <NUM>) and a channel section (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
a product (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) disposed within the pouch (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the product (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is capable of flowing from the main section (<NUM>, <NUM>) through the channel section (<NUM>, <NUM>) to a tip (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the pouch (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
wherein the pouch (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) includes a valve (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) that has a curve extending transversely across the channel section (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the curve is configured such that, when the product (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) flows through the curve, the product (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) flows by a convex side of the first panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in the curve and a concave side of the second panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in the curve;
characterized in that:
a portion of the first panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) that includes the curve is less rigid than a portion of the second panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) that includes the curve;
wherein the portion of the second panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) that includes the curve has a valve deflection constant defined as: <MAT> where CVD is the valve deflection constant, E is a modulus of elasticity of the portion of the second panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), t is a thickness of the portion of the second panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), and D is a diameter of the concave side of the second panel (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in the curve when the pouch (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is in a resting state; and
the valve deflection constant is in a range from about <NUM> MPa to about <NUM> MPa.