Patent Document

RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/543,485, filed on Oct. 5, 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,637,082, which claims the benefit of and is a Divisional Application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/986,568, filed on Nov. 10, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,159,374, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/518,806, filed on Nov. 10, 2003, the entire contents of each is hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to a method and to a device that release a gas and or other compounds in a closed hot or cold filled container to (a) prevent or counteract buckling thereof, (b) provide structural rigidity and strength thereto, and (c) so that components may be added after closing and sealing the container. The devices of the invention include a container and a cap. The container may be partially filled with liquid or solid products. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     To prevent microbial spoilage, a hot fill process is often used to package many food and beverage products at high temperatures to sterilize both the product and container. When the liquid content of the container cools, it contracts and either creates an internal vacuum or causes the container to deform, as by shrinking, buckling or paneling. Currently, plastic bottles are designed with panels, ribs and additional resin to compensate for the contraction and prevent bottle deformation. When the smooth side wall of the bottle is replaced with these panels, flexible packaging shapes and designs are prevented, thereby making label application difficult. 
     An approach to the bottle deformation problem adds a gas, such as carbon dioxide or liquid nitrogen to the bottle after the liquid is hot-filled and before sealing. This approach is described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,662,154, 5,033,254 and 5,251,424 and in German Offenlegungsschrift No. DE 40 36 421 A 1. For example, the process described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,251,424 introduces liquid nitrogen into the bottle before sealing to prevent thermal distortion of the bottle upon cooling of the hot liquid. 
     After closing, the gas expands within the headspace and the pressure inside the container rises rapidly providing rigidity to the container. This operation is most effective when applied to cold filled plastic containers that can accept relatively high pressures without stretching and deforming. At hot fill temperatures, however, the container looses its design strength. This loss of strength allows the container to stretch and deform, making it impossible to pressurize the container to the same pressure levels that can be achieved with cold fill operations. 
     Another approach to the bottle deformation problem adds a carbon dioxide releasing device to the container before sealing. This approach is described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,270,069 and 6,244,022. For example, the device described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,270,069 comprises a pencil shaped device that includes two compartments in which are disposed different reagents that, when brought into contact, react to release carbon dioxide into the headspace of the bottle. The user must remove the device before consuming the beverage. 
     Packaged beverages that contain a carbonation device that is activated at the point of consumption to carbonate the beverage are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,888,998, 4,007,134, 4,110,255, 4,186,215, 4,316,409, 4,458,584, 4,475,448, 4,466,342 and in British Patent Application GB 2 076 628 A. Sieve tablets used in many of these devices are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,888,998, 4,007,134, and 4,110,255, as well as in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,025,655 and 4,214,011. These sieve tablets leave a residue that must be removed from the beverage prior to consumption. 
     In a hot fill process, the food and beverage products are pasteurized and then filled into containers at high temperature. The entire heating and cooling cycle can take a significant amount of time meaning that the actual food or beverage components are exposed to high temperatures for extended periods of time. During this time, certain components referred to as “Heat Sensitive Components” can become degraded by the high temperatures and lose their true aromatic and flavor characteristics. 
     Thus, there is a need for a method that releases gas in a closed container to retain microbial stability without leaving a residue or a device that must be removed at time of consumption. 
     There is also a need to eliminate buckling or paneling in closed hot filled containers in order to capture decorative, lightweight and flexibility benefits. 
     There is also a need to sufficiently pressurize a closed hot filled container in order to capture structural benefits without deforming the container. 
     There is a further need to release ingredients and functional components to closed containers on a time delayed basis to enhance functionality. 
     There is still another need for a container in which gas can be released to pressurize the container after the container is sealed. 
     There is yet another need for a closure or cap for a container that can release gas into the container after sealing to pressurize the container. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A container of the present invention comprises a compartment that is partially filled with one or more products and an insert disposed in the compartment. The insert comprises a reaction chamber and at least one reactive agent that is triggerable to a chemical reaction in the reaction chamber to produce a gas that is released to the compartment so as to pressurize the compartment. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the insert further comprises a heating element that, when activated by an external energy source, provides heat to trigger the chemical reaction. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the external energy source provides thermal energy in a form selected from the group consisting of: radiant heat, heated air, electromagnetic energy in the radio frequency (RF), high frequency (HF), very high frequency (VHF) and ultra high frequency (UHF) ranges, microwave, gamma, X-ray, ultraviolet, infrared, electromagnetic heat induction, ultrasonic energy, thermo sonic energy, laser energy, electric current and any combination thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the reactive agent is selected from the group consisting of: carbonates, nitrites, nitrates, ammonium compounds, acetates, ozones, peroxides and combinations thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the insert further comprises a member of the group consisting of: components and layers, liners, seals, reactive agents, membranes, coatings, films, inductive plates, electrodes, dielectrics, absorbents, conductors, insulators, separators, jackets, shields, fuses, spacers, stators, coils, catalysts and inhibitors and any combination thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the chemical reaction is triggered by one selected from the group consisting of: catalyst, moisture, heat and any combination thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the insert further comprises a separator that separates the reactive agent from another agent, and wherein the separator is at least partially dissolved by moisture to allow the reactive agent and the agent to come into contact with one another in the reaction chamber. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the insert includes a plurality of layers, wherein the reaction chamber is disposed between at least first and second ones of the layers. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the first layer includes one or more weakened areas that rupture as the gas pressurizes the reaction chamber to allow the gas to escape into the compartment. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, one of the plurality of layers includes a heating element that, when activated by an external energy source, provides heat to trigger the chemical reaction. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the heating element is one of the first and second layers. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the heating element is an inductor that conducts electricity when subjected to an electromagnetic field. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, one of the layers is a semi-permeable membrane that allows the gas to escape to the compartment. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the compartment further comprises a neck with a cap disposed on the neck. The insert is disposed on a surface of the cap. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the gas enters a headspace of the compartment. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the insert further comprises a pull tab that is bonded to the surface and that when pulled removes the insert from the surface. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the product is liquid, which is initially hot. The compartment buckles as the liquid cools and the gas counteracts the buckling. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, components are released with the gas into the compartment. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the components are disposed in the reaction chamber with the reactive agent. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the components are selected from the group consisting of: water, vitamins, minerals, flavor components, preservatives, oxygen scavengers, salts, electrolytes, sterilants, medicines, nutrients, organoleptics, colorants and any combination thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the insert includes a plurality of layers and the reaction chamber is disposed between at least first and second ones of the layers. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the first layer includes one or more weakened areas that rupture as the gas pressurizes the reaction chamber to allow the gas to escape into the compartment. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, one of the layers includes a heating element that when activated by an external energy source provides heat to trigger the chemical reaction. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the heating element is one of the first and second layers. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the heating element is an inductor that conducts electricity when subjected to an electromagnetic field. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, one of the layers is a semi-permeable membrane that allows the gas to escape into the compartment. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, one of the layers is a closure seal with a pull tab that is disposed between the surface and the reaction chamber. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, a secondary seal is disposed between the surface and the closure seal. 
     In another embodiment of the container of the present invention, the layers further comprise a third layer that is a closure seal and a fourth layer that is an insulator disposed between the third layer and the second layer. The first and second layers are each an inductor. 
     A method of the present invention comprises filling a container at least partially with a product, closing the container and disposing an insert in the container. The insert comprises a reaction chamber and at least one reactive agent that is triggerable to a chemical reaction in the reaction chamber to produce a gas that is released to the compartment so as to pressurize the container. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, components are concurrently released with the gas into the container. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the chemical reaction is triggered by one selected from the group consisting of: catalyst, moisture, heat and any combination thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the heating is provided by an induction heater. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the heating is selected from the group consisting of: radiant heat, heated air, electromagnetic energy in the radio frequency (RF), high frequency (HF), very high frequency (VHF) and ultra high frequency (UHF) ranges, microwave, gamma, X-ray, ultraviolet, infrared, electromagnetic heat induction, ultrasonic energy, thermo sonic energy, laser energy, electric current and any combination thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the reactive agent is selected from the group consisting of: carbonates, nitrites, nitrates, ammonium compounds, acetates, ozones, peroxides and combinations thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the insert further comprises a separator that separates the reactive agent from another agent. The method further comprises at least partially dissolving the separator with moisture to allow the reactive agent and the agent to contact one another in the reaction chamber. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the components are selected from the group consisting of: water, vitamins, minerals, flavor components, preservatives, oxygen scavengers, salts, electrolytes, sterilants, medicines, nutrients, organoleptics, colorants and any combination thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the insert includes a plurality of layers. At least first and second ones of the layers are sealed with a region therebetween. The reactive agent is disposed in the reaction chamber. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, one of the layers is a heating element that when triggered by an external energy source heats the reactive agent. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the heating element is one of the first and second layers. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the heating element is an inductor that conducts electricity when subjected to an electromagnetic field. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, one of the layers is a semi-permeable membrane that allows the gas to escape into the container. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the container comprises a neck and a cap, which is disposed on the neck. The insert is disposed on a surface of the cap. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the gas enters a headspace of the container. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the insert further comprises a pull tab that is bonded to the surface and that when pulled removes the insert from the surface. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the product is liquid, which is initially hot. The container buckles as the liquid cools. The gas counteracts the buckling. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, components are released with the gas into the container. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the components are disposed in the reaction chamber with the reactive agent. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the components are selected from the group consisting of: water, vitamins, minerals, flavor components, preservatives, oxygen scavengers, salts, electrolytes, sterilants, medicines, nutrients, organoleptics, colorants and any combination thereof. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the insert includes a plurality of layers. The reaction chamber is disposed between at least first and second ones of the layers. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the first layer includes one or more weakened areas that rupture as the gas pressurizes the reaction chamber to allow the gas to escape into the container. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, one of the layers includes a heating element that when activated by an external energy source provides heat to trigger the chemical reaction. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, one of the layers is a closure seal with a pull tab that is disposed between the surface and the reaction chamber. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, a secondary seal is disposed between the surface and the closure seal. 
     In another embodiment of the method of the present invention, the layers further comprise a third layer that is a closure seal and a fourth layer that is an insulator disposed between the third layer and the second layer. The first and second layers are each an inductor. 
     A cap embodiment of the present invention comprises a rim that is styled for fitting on a container neck, a surface connected to the rim and an insert disposed on the surface. The insert comprises a reaction chamber and at least one reactive agent that is triggerable to a chemical reaction in the reaction chamber to produce a gas. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, the insert further comprises a pull tab that is bonded to the surface and that when pulled removes the insert from the surface. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, the product is liquid, which is initially hot. The compartment buckles as the liquid cools and the gas counteracts the buckling. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, components are released with the gas into the compartment. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, the components are disposed in the reaction chamber with the reactive agent. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, the components are selected from the group consisting of: water, vitamins, minerals, flavor components, preservatives, oxygen scavengers, salts, electrolytes, sterilants, medicines, nutrients, organoleptics, colorants and any combination thereof. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, the insert includes a plurality of layers, wherein the reaction chamber is disposed between at least first and second ones of the layers. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, the first layer includes one or more weakened areas that rupture as the gas pressurizes the reaction chamber to allow the gas to escape into the compartment. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, one of the layers includes a heating element that when activated by an external energy source provides heat to trigger the chemical reaction. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, the heating element is one of the first and second layers. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, the heating element is an inductor that conducts electricity when subjected to an electromagnetic field. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, one of the layers is a semi-permeable membrane that allows the gas to escape to the compartment. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, one of the plurality of layers is a closure seal with a pull tab that is disposed between the surface and the reaction chamber. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, a secondary seal is disposed between the surface and the closure seal. 
     In another cap embodiment of the present invention, the layers further comprise a third layer that is a closure seal and a fourth layer that is an insulator disposed between the third layer and the second layer. The first and second layers are each an inductor. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Other and further objects, advantages and features of the present invention will be understood by reference to the following specification in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters denote like elements of structure and: 
         FIG. 1  is a view of an insert device of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view taken along the line  2  of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded view of the cross-sectional view of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a bottom view of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a view depicting action of the insert device during and after deployment; 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  6  of  FIG. 5  depicting action of the insert device during deployment; 
         FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  6  of  FIG. 5  depicting action of the insert device after deployment 
         FIG. 8  is an exploded view of an active closure device of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of the active closure device of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  is an exploded view as in  FIG. 8 , depicting the active closure device disposed on a container neck; 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded view as in  FIG. 9 , depicting the alternate embodiment of the active closure device disposed on a container neck; 
         FIG. 12  is an exploded view as in  FIG. 8 , depicting the active closure device after removal from a container neck; 
         FIG. 13  is an exploded view as in  FIG. 9 , depicting the alternate embodiment of the active closure device after removal from a container neck; 
         FIG. 14  depicts the method of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 15  depicts an exploded view of another alternate embodiment of the insert device of the present invention. 
         FIG. 16  depicts an exploded view of another alternate embodiment of the insert device of the present invention; 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment of the closure device of the present invention; 
         FIG. 18  is a top view of an alternate embodiment of the container of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional view along line  19  of  FIG. 18 . 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     While the invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, the drawings show by way of example, preferred embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-4 , an insert device  201  of the present invention includes a closure seal  101  that has a pull tab  106  to assist with removal at a future time. In an alternate preferred embodiment, closure seal  101  is simply a circular disc without a pull tab. In both preferred embodiments insert device  201  includes a graphic panel  202  that can contain graphics in the form of text or figures. Graphic panel  202 , for example, may be disposed on a film seal  105 . 
     Insert device  201  comprises a layered structure in the form of a disc, or other suitable shape, that includes closure seal  101  (with or without the pull tab  106 ), an insulator  102 , a base inductor  103 , a retaining shield inductor  104  that is weakened at points by one or more score marks  108 , and a film seal  105  all joined together by a bonding agent  109 . Sealed between base inductor  103  and retaining shield inductor  104  is a reactive agent  107 . 
     In the following description, insert device  201  is considered active prior to the time reactive agent  107  is involved in a reaction and inactive or spent after the reaction. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , during deployment of insert device  201 , reactive agent  107  is caused to produce a chemical reaction  210  and liberate a mixture of a gas  214  and one or more components  216  in the form of a mixture  212 . Reaction  210  takes placed in a reaction chamber  220  formed within the seal created by base inductor  103  and retaining shield inductor  104 . Reaction  210  produces a positive pressure within reaction chamber  220  that shears retaining shield inductor  104  along score marks  108  (shown in  FIGS. 1-4 ). The shearing action opens one or more rupture vents  218  at these points that allow mixture  212  to vent or escape through retaining shield inductor  104 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , insert device  201  is depicted as spent after deployment. Insert device  201  when spent contains no more reactive agent  107 . Rupture vents  218  are permanently opened in retaining shield inductor  104 . 
     Reactive agent  107  may be any suitable reactive or non-reactive chemical compound that is simply dispensed from the insert device or react to produce a gas and or components. Reactive agent  107  may be selected from the groups or combinations of organic and non-organic chemicals and compounds available or yet to be developed. For example, reactive agent  107  may include carbonates, nitrites, nitrates, ammonium compounds, acetates, ozones, peroxides and combinations thereof. 
     Closure seal  101  may be any suitable liner or inner seal or combination of both and may be selected from the group consisting of: polyester coated foam, rubbers, corks, plastics, pulp board and paper. Insulator  102  may be any suitable insulator and may be selected from the group consisting of: paper board, polyesters, ceramics, corks, silicates, foams and plastics. Base inductor  103  may be any suitable metallic sheet, metalized film or foil and may be selected from the group consisting of: aluminum foil, precious and non precious metals. Retaining shield inductor  104  may be any suitable shield and may be selected from the group that includes aluminum foil, precious and non precious metals. Film seal  105  may be any suitable film and may be selected from the group that includes polyester film, latex, water soluble film and plastics. Pull tab  106  is integral with closure seal  101  and made from the same material. Bonding agent  109  may be any suitable fastening agent and may be selected from the group consisting of: adhesives, waxes, gums and epoxies. 
     Gas  214  is any suitable gas such as nitrogen N sub 2, nitrous oxide N sub 2 O, carbon dioxide C O sub 2 or a combination thereof. 
     Components  216  are formulated as heat sensitive ingredients or functional components that are best suited for time controlled release into the controlled environment of a closed container. Components  216  can include but are not limited to any and all of, water, vitamins, minerals, flavor components, preservatives, oxygen scavengers, salts, electrolytes, sterilants, medicines, nutrients, organoleptics, colorants and any combination thereof. 
     It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that materials other than the aforementioned materials can be used in the practice of the present invention. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 , an active closure  230  comprises a cap  232  into which insert device  201  with pull tab  106  has been inserted. Cap  232  is fitted with a secondary seal  234  inserted above insert device  201  in order to re-seal the container after removal of insert device  201  after being spent. Cap  232 , secondary seal  234  and insert device  201  are joined together by a bonding agent  236 . Bonding agent  236  may be any suitable bonding agent and may, for example, be an adhesive. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , a preferred alternate embodiment of active closure  230  comprises cap  232  into which insert device  201  without pull tab has been inserted. Cap  232  has been modified to include a pilfer band  238  to assist with detecting pilferage once active closure  230  has been sealed onto a neck finish of a bottle. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , active closure  230  is disposed on a neck finish  240 . In  FIG. 10 , active closure  230  is screwed onto neck finish  240  such that closure seal  101  with pull tab  106  is compressed between secondary seal  234  and neck finish  240 , thereby creating a pressure bonded hermetic seal  242 . In  FIG. 11 , active closure  230  without pull tab and with pilfer band  238  is screwed onto neck finish  240  such that closure seal  101  without pull tab  106  is compressed between cap  232  and neck finish  240 , thereby creating a pressure bonded hermetic seal  242 . Pressure bonded hermetic seal  242  comprises a liquid and gas tight seal where the pressure caused by application of the cap  232  bonds closure seal  101  to neck finish  240  by friction. 
     Referring to  FIG. 14 , the method of the present invention begins with a hot filling step generally designated by reference numeral  250 . A plastic container  270  is hot filled with a hot liquid  272  via an opening or neck  274 , to a pre-determined fill level  276 , leaving a headspace  278 . Pre-determined fill level  276  can be any level between a base  280  and a top of neck finish  240  of container  270 . After hot filling step  250  has been completed, the next step generally designated by reference numeral  252  closes and seals container  270  through the application of active closure  230 . 
     After container  270  has been closed and sealed by active closure  230 , the next step generally designated by reference numeral  254  cools container  270  and liquid  272 . During cooling, container  270  dents, buckles or panels to form one or more recesses  282  due to a vacuum pressure being created through contraction in headspace  278  and liquid  272 . However, container  270  will return to its design strength by the time liquid  272  cools to an adequate temperature, e.g., ambient, for the next step. The denting, buckling or paneling of container  270  can take place on one or more side walls  284 , base  280  or any place on container  270  including any specially weakened area thereof designed to accommodate the effects of the vacuum pressure created in headspace  278  during cooling step  254 . 
     Optionally, at the time of cooling step  254  or subsequent to closing and sealing step  252 , container may be inverted to sterilize headspace  278 . 
     In the next step generally designated by reference numeral  256 , the reactive agent  107  contained in insert device  201  is triggered to react chemically. The triggering of reaction  210  occurs when active closure  230  is positioned under the influence of a triggering device  286 . Triggering device  286  comprises an induction coil  288  that is disposed in relation to cap  232  so that when an electrical current flows in coil  288 , an electromagnetic field encompasses base inductor  103  and retaining shield inductor  104 . The electromagnetic field by induction causes a current to flow in inductors  103  and  104 , that in turn raises the temperature of these inductors. 
     This increase in temperature in turn raises the temperature of the reactive agent  107 . When the temperature of reactive agent  107  reaches a pre-determined level, reaction  210  is initiated in reaction chamber  220  in which reactive agent  107  reacts to produce a mixture  212  of gas  214  and components  216 . The mixture  212  of liberated gas  214  and components  216  create a positive pressure inside reaction chamber  220 . This positive pressure causes rupture vents  218  to open so as to allow mixture  212  to vent into headspace  278  of container  270 . This venting allows gas  214  to expand within headspace  278  and develop a positive pressure within container  270 , thereby expanding out recesses  282  caused by denting, buckling or paneling during the cooling step  254  and additionally providing structural rigidity to the container  270 . 
     Furthermore, in the embodiment that includes pull tab  106 , the temperature of the inductors  103  and  104  is further controlled to allow pressure bonded hermetic seal  242  to be converted into a non permanent welded seal, whereby the polyester coating on closure seal  101  melts down and bonds to neck finish  240  upon cooling. 
     The temperature of inductors  103  and  104  can be controlled by the intensity of the external energy provided by triggering device  286 , the proximity of inductors  103  and  104  to triggering device  286 , and the amount of time that inductors  103  and  104  are exposed to the electromagnetic field of triggering device  286 . For example, the temperature can be controlled by controlling the amount of time that active closure  230  takes to pass through the electromagnetic field, that triggering device takes to pass by active closure  230  or that current is applied to inductor coil  288 . 
     The reaction itself is controllable in the sense that the time of triggering is controlled to occur at any time after container  270  has cooled and returned to its design strength. This allows higher pressures to be created than would occur if liquid  272  were at the hot fill temperature. The higher pressure permits container  270  to expand and substantially eliminate any paneling or buckling that happened during cooling and additionally provide structural rigidity to the container  270 . 
     In the next step generally designated by reference numeral  258 , the reaction is completed. In this action, mixture  212  in headspace  278  separates allowing components  216  to dissolve or mix with liquid  272  while allowing gas  214  to remain in headspace  278 . Active closure  201  remains on the now rigid container  270  until opened by the consumer. 
     The chemical reaction also release components  216 . Components  216  are formulated as heat sensitive ingredients or functional components that are released into the container  270  by the reaction. Since the reaction is triggered only when the container  270  has cooled, components  216  are not degraded. The reason is that they are not subjected to extended periods of high temperature, but rather to a relatively brief period of high temperature during the reaction. These heat sensitive ingredients generally provide aromatic and flavor characteristics to liquid  272 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , active closure  230  after activation is shown. In  FIG. 12 , active closure  230  comprises cap  232 , secondary seal  234  and a spent insert device  201  with pull tab  106 . When cap  232  is unscrewed and removed from neck finish  240 , spent insert device  201  remains bonded to neck finish  240 . Spent insert device  201  can then be removed by pulling pull tab  106  and tearing spent insert device  201  from neck finish  240 . When container  270  is required to be re-sealed, cap  232  is screwed onto neck finish  240 , thereby compressing secondary seal  234  and creating a new pressure bonded hermetic seal. 
     In  FIG. 13 , active closure  230  after activation (without pull tab) comprises cap  232 , pilfer band  238  and spent insert device  201 . When cap  232  is unscrewed and removed from neck finish  240 , pilfer band  238  breaks and remains on neck finish  240  while spent insert device  201  remains in place inside cap  232 . When container  270  is required to be re-sealed, cap  232  is screwed onto neck finish  240 , thereby compressing closure seal  101  and re-creating the pressure bonded hermetic seal. 
     It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes can be made to the above described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. The list of examples of changes or modifications made below is not intended to be all encompassing or in any way limit the possible forms of the invention. 
     In one exemplary alternate embodiment depicted in  FIG. 15 , an insert device  120  includes a membrane  110  coated with a dissolvable coating  111 . Upon exposure to liquid  272 , coating  111  dissolves and allows liquid  272  from container  270  to penetrate through and moisten a compound  112 . The moistening of compound  112  causes it to react and produce gas and by products. In this example, the same membrane  110  allows the gas to pass through it from the reaction while retaining or holding back any undesired components or by products. Additionally as an optional embodiment, an insulator  102  and a base inductor  103  can be added to assist with controlling or speeding up the reaction. 
     In another exemplary alternate embodiment depicted in  FIG. 16 , an insert device  130  contains a thin film separator  115  within a cavity or reaction chamber created by inductors  103  and  104 . Thin film  115  separates reactive agent A  113  and reactive agent B  114  that react when exposed to one another. When inductors  103  and  104  are heated, thin film  115  melts away and allows reactive agents  113  and  114  to mix, thereby causing them to react. 
     Referring to  FIG. 17 , another exemplary alternate embodiment of the present invention includes a closure  332  that includes an annular slot  335  in which a neck seal  336  is disposed. Closure  332  includes a recess  337  in which an insert device  334  is inserted via mouth  333 . 
     Insert device  334  functions to seal container  270 , react and produce gas  214  and the by products or components  216 , trigger, induce and control the reaction, retain or hold back certain by-products, provide protection, shielding, safety and security and provide structural strength and support. To accomplish these functions, insert  334  may include components, such as liners, seals, reactive agents, membranes, coatings, inductive plates, electrodes, dielectrics, absorbents, conductors, insulators, jackets, shields, fuses, spacers, stators, coils, films, catalysts and inhibitors and/or other components. Insert device  334  may be secured to the bottom of recess  337  in any suitable manner, known currently or in the future. For example, insert device  334  may be secured to the bottom of recess  337  by a force fit or chemical adhesive. Insert device  334 , for example, may be any of the insert devices  201 ,  120  or  130  described above. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 18 and 19 , an alternate container  300  comprises a compartment  302  in which an insert  304  is disposed. Insert  304  may be either insert device  201  or  334 . Insert  304  may be attached to an interior surface of container  300  or simply be unattached. One or more products  308  partially fill container  300 . Products  308  may be food products, such as chips, candy, vegetables, and the like. Alternatively, products  308  may comprise one or more pieces of hardware, medical or dental supplies, parts, tools, and the like. 
     Container  300  is closed by a suitable fastener  306 . For example, fastener  306  may be a typical form-fill-seal operation. 
     Container  300  is constructed of any suitable material that when closed and pressurized has a flexibility to be inflatable. For example, the material may have elastic properties or alternatively may be plastic, paper, metal, film or laminate that is closed in a loose fashion for inflation or pressurization. 
     In all cases the function of insert device  120 ,  130 ,  201  or  334  is not limited to that described in the preferred embodiments or the two preceding alternate embodiments. The insert device may function to seal the container, dispense contents, react and produce gas and components, trigger, induce and control a reaction, retain, filter or hold back certain by-products, provide protection, thermal containment, housing, shielding, safety and security and provide structural strength and support. 
     To accomplish these functions, the insert device may include components and layers, such as liners, seals, reactive agents, membranes, coatings, films, inductive plates, electrodes, dielectrics, absorbents, conductors, insulators, separators, jackets, shields, fuses, spacers, stators, coils, catalysts and inhibitors and/or other components all of which are held together by any suitable agent, such as adhesive or wax. 
     Membranes may be any suitable semi-permeable membrane that allows a fluid of specified size to penetrate and flow across the membrane. Membranes may be selected from the group that includes woven substrates, hollow fibers, composite materials or any other membrane materials available or yet to be developed. 
     Coatings are any suitable coatings that slowly dissolve or disintegrate when in contact with liquid. Coatings may be selected from the group consisting of sugars, starches, pill coatings or other dissolvable materials available or yet to be developed. 
     Pull tab  106  may be any pull tab design including a shape integrated into the closure seal  101  or an individual device attached thereto. An example of an individual device would be a half moon pull tab that sits on top of closure seal  101 . 
     Triggering device  286  may alternatively produce external energy in the form of radiant heat, heated air, electromagnetic energy in the radio frequency (RF), high frequency (HF), very high frequency (VHF) and ultra high frequency (UHF) ranges, microwave, gamma, X-ray, ultraviolet, infrared, electromagnetic heat induction, ultrasonic energy, thermo sonic energy, laser energy, electric current and/or any combination thereof. 
     Score marks  108  may alternatively be any number including a random number and laid out in any pattern including a randomly distributed pattern. 
     Graphic panel  202  may be located on any surface of the insert device  201  and may include any graphics including promotional information, trade marking, product information in the form of text, figures or holograms. 
     It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that although insert device  201  is introduced into container  270  via active closure  230 , other shapes of construction and other modes of introduction are contemplated. For example, insert device  201  could be introduced to container  270  prior to filling or closing. 
     Further it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the application of this invention may be applied to all applications where it may be desirable to control the release of reactable or non reactable compounds in a closed filled container. Such applications include the use of this invention to: 1) dispense functional ingredients or components without a reaction directly into the head space and or liquid inside the container, 2) provide a blanket of specific gas in the head space of a container in order to blanket the liquid without significantly increasing or decreasing the pressure inside the container, 3) eliminate the effects of oxygen in the head space of the container by releasing or exposing an oxygen scavenger to the head space of the container or causing a reaction with the oxygen inside the head space of the container, 4) cause the liquid inside the container to become carbonated or absorb other gases from the headspace into solution, 5) cause the liquid inside the container to become agitated, and 6) cause the temperature of the liquid to be raised or lowered. 
     Additionally it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the application of this invention may be applied to any and all containers and all filling methods in addition to hot and cold filling methods. 
     The present invention having been thus described with particular reference to the preferred forms thereof, it will be obvious that various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Technology Category: 7