WO1998004468A1

WO1998004468A1 - Container comprising longitudinally seamed body having seamless lining/liner

Info

Publication number: WO1998004468A1
Application number: PCT/AU1997/000478
Authority: WO
Inventors: Peter Robert Raffaele
Original assignee: Peter Robert Raffaele
Priority date: 1996-07-26
Filing date: 1997-07-28
Publication date: 1998-02-05

Abstract

A container, such as a multilayered beverage carton, which includes at least one layer which has no longitudinal seam. The container comprises a first tube formed from a web of material having opposing edges, the opposing edges being joined to form the first tube having an interior surface and an exterior surface, and the layer is located inside the interior surface and formed to have no longitudinal seam. The layer is an extruded or sprayed/cast layer forming a second seamless, tube as a liner for the first tube. The invention also provides a method and apparatus for making the container and comprises extruding or spraying the layer to form the second seamless tube simultaneously with forming the first tube. A range of bungs/end closures for sealing in the ends of the (tubular) container are also disclosed.

Description

CONTAINER COMPRISING LONGITUDINALLY SEAMED BODY HAVING SEAMLESS LINING/LINER

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to packaging systems. More particularly, this invention relates to containers, particularly, although not exclusively, of the type used to contain food or beverages.

BACKGROUND ART

Disposable containers of the type used to contain food or beverages are known. In some forms, these containers are made by folding multi-layered material to form a carton or similar container having a longitudinal seam. The layers of the material commonly include cardboard or compressed paper lined with aluminium and/or thermoplastic material. It is intended that the aluminium and/or thermoplastic material will provide a barrier to contamination of the contents of the carton by bacteria, etc. In the case of containers used to contain food or beverages, it is desirable that the container protects the product against oxygen, microorganisms and light for the expected shelf life of the product .

In these prior art containers, the thermoplastic material used is normally polyethylene, which has good sealing and joining abilities. Generally, a layer of aluminium foil is interposed between the cardboard or compressed paper and the polyethylene, m the case where the containers are to be used for products having a relatively long shelf life.

However, despite the fact that such prior art containers can be filled in aseptic conditions, it has been found that contamination of the contents can still occur.

To give an example, the commonly used cardboard milk carton is made from a web of composite material, the composite being made of paper and cardboard coated with polyethylene barrier material and optionally including a foil layer. The two opposing longitudinal edge margins of the web are brought together and joined by seaming the margins together. The longitudinal seam is formed in one of two ways: the composite including the cardboard and the polyethylene is folded so that the cardboard layer is joined to the polyethylene layer, or the composite is folded so that the join is between two edges of the polyethylene layer.

During the formation of the longitudinal seam in the container, there is much that can occur to result in a lining which does not form a continuous barrier. For example, delamination of the polyethylene layer from the underlying cardboard material can occur along the edge of the seam.

Because there is a longitudinal seam in the polyethylene barrier material, if it becomes necessary to re-work or join the longitudinal edge margins, the barrier material is often breached or disturbed, adversely affecting the aseptic characteristic of the container. In addition, there is the possibility that the new seam or join may not be perfect and the container may be subject to leakage as well as to ingress of microorganisms.

Other problems are known.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

In one form, this invention provides a container having a plurality of layers, one of which has no longitudinal seam. The layers included in the container of the invention may form a tube. The layer with no longitudinal seam may be located on the outside or the inside of the container. There may be two or more layers of material in the container, including the layer which has no longitudinal seam.

Preferably, the container of the invention takes the form of a first tube formed from a web of material having opposing edges, the opposing edges being joined to form the tube, and the layer is located either inside or outside the tube. Even more 'preferably, the layer forms a second tube substantially co-axial with the first tube. The joining of the opposing edges may be effected by various methods known in the art, including butting, overlapping and seaming.

In another embodiment, the container of the invention includes a third tube located between the first tube and the second tube.

In yet another embodiment, the container of the invention includes a third tube, the second tube being located between the first tube and the third tube.

In all cases, the second and the third tubes may be located either inside or outside the first tube. It is especially preferred that the second tube is substantially coaxial with the first tube. In those embodiments which include a third tube, it is preferred that all tubes are coaxial.

The container of the invention may be flexible, semi-rigid or rigid. It may take the form, for example, of a tube, a bag, a carton, a can, a pillow or a sachet. Examples of the application of the container of the invention are as follows: milk cartons of layered plastic and paper or cardboard, aseptic cartons, thermoplastic cartons, beverage or food containers which include a layer of foil, envelopes (for mailing and other purposes) , candy containers, tubes for architectural drawings and aseptic medical boxes.

The container of the invention may be made from a wide range of material, including organic and inorganic materials. Some specific examples are plastic, cardboard, aluminium, steel or other metal, such organic material as keratin, cellulose, proteins, fats and cellular aggregations, woven material, non-woven material, ceramic material and various composite materials .

When the container of the invention is made up of composite material, it may have two or more layers, each of which may be made from any of the materials set out above. Preferably, however, the layers are chosen from the group consisting of thermoplastic material, cardboard and aluminium foil. It will be appreciated that most prior art folded card-type milk cartons are made from these layers. The layer which has no longitudinal seam in the container of the invention preferably comprises a thermoplastic or thermosettable material, including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane and wax. It will be appreciated, however, that various other materials will also be suitable.

More preferably, the layer is made from a barrier material. It is preferred that the barrier material is capable of bonding to itself to join seamlessly.

It is to be understood that the material for the layer which has no longitudinal seam need not be capable of forming an aseptic barrier. It may include ceramic material, foil or other material which can prevent the passage of light, gas or fluid through it.

In addition, this material may include aggregate material, including strands, cables, wires and other reinforcing, such as structural beams. If desired, the material for the layer which has no longitudinal seam may be cast or formed in patterns and may form compartments, for example, for straws.

The material from which any of the tubes in the container of the invention is made, and which will contact or communicate with contents in the container, may have certain qualities. These qualities may include the ability to react, chemically or otherwise, with the contents. One example is the incorporation of wood chips which can impart a woody flavour to wine, for example. Another is the incorporation of substances which absorb odour or bitterness from the contents. As another example, the wall of the relevant tube may include a slow release dye, which, when released into the contents in sufficient concentration, may indicate by colour change that the contents should be discarded, or that the product is of a specific age.

Where the container of the invention has a first tube formed from a web of material and the layer with no longitudinal seam is a barrier material, it is preferred that a substantial part of the surface (interior or exterior) of the first tube is bonded to the barrier material, either directly or via one or more intermediate layers. It is further preferred that the barrier material can be used as a bonding agent to bind the first tube, either in joining together the opposing edges of the web of material to form the first tube, or in bonding the first and second tubes together, or both.

In other embodiments, substantially none of a surface of the first tube is bonded to the barrier material, either directly or via one or more intermediate layers. Instead, the container has an apex and base and the barrier material is attached to the first tube at the apex, at the base or at both the apex and the base .

In other embodiments, attachment between the barrier material and the first tube may be at other locations, not being the apex or the base.

Where there is attachment between the barrier material and the first tube, various manners of attachment may be employed, including bonding material or chemical reaction between the barrier material and the adjacent surface of the first tube or an intermediate layer.

Attachment or bonding between the barrier material and the first tube may take place by friction or by more permanent means. As non-limiting examples are mentioned stitching, lacing, gluing, riveting, clamping and stapling.

In still other embodiments, the layer need not be attached at all to the remainder of the container.

Where the container of the invention has a first tube formed from a web of material, that material may be a composite material, such as a polylaminate made up of plastic, foil, cardboard, silica, ceramic material, metal or any other suitable organic or inorganic material or combinations thereof. Alternately, the material of the web may be a single material, such as one chosen from the above group.

Preferably, the first tube will have a longitudinal seam, as may any layers other than those forming first tube and the second tube. However, the second tube will have no longitudinal seam.

Where the container of the invention includes a third tube, it may be constructed of a material chosen from those described for the first tube, or from any other suitable material.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the container of the invention may include more than two or three tubes, the extra tubes having various properties and being made from suitable materials, with or without longitudinal seams. The container so produced will have general or specific uses and applications, depending on the combination selected.

For ease of the description below, reference will be made to the first and second tubes. However, it is to be understood that the description can be adapted, where appropriate, to include three or more tubes and that these are within the scope of the present invention.

The first and second tubes may each take any desired cross-sectional shape, independently of the other, including circular, square and rectangular cross -sectional shapes.

Where the container of the invention has an apex or a base or both, each may be made in various ways. First, each may be made of the same material as the rest of the container or from a different material. Each may be a fixed "bung" type, or an extrusion or continuation of one or all of the tubes comprising of the container. As other options, the appropriate end of any or all the tubes comprising the container of the invention may be folded, crushed or crimped and, if necessary, bonded, to form the base or apex. For this purpose, tube ends may be tapered or edge scythed. It is a further option that one or both ends may be seamed or otherwise joined to form a base or apex.

Either of the base or apex, or both, may be removable or capable of being opened. In some embodiments, the apex or the base may be capable of being re-closed. It is preferred that the base is fixed, however.

It will be appreciated from what has been said above that a base may be separate from the container or may be joined to the container. Further, the base may be made of one type of material or from different materials, such as those which have a structural inter-relationship. A base may itself include an aperture which may have a bung or stopper.

The container of the invention may include not only a base and/or an apex, but also one or more lids, handles, pouring devices, funnel mounts, drinking straws, pouches and tethering means. Sealing members may be integral to the first or second tube or they may be separate, such as rubber O-rings and a similar means.

Where a container of the invention has both an apex and a base, these may be of the same or a different material . The apex and the base may comprise the same type of closure.

If desired, the first tube, the second tube or both may be formed around a base or a top, or around an end stop.

In other embodiments, the second tube is further worked to form an end closure to the container of the invention, either by forming part of a seam which joins a separate end or bung to the container, or by forming the closure itself.

A base or apex may be provided with one or more apertures . These are discussed in greater detail, below.

The container of the invention may be divided internally into compartments, for example by segmenting one or more of the tubes in the container of the invention. The container of the invention may include discreet cavities or connected piping, connecting one tube to another.

A base or apex may include an end stop which can have a function to assist in pouring contents from the container of the invention or for appending closures such as bungs, bases or lids. One means of forming an end stop is to collapse or crush the end of the tubes and join them together by a heat sealing or other suitable means. This results in the formation of a gable type apex.

Where an apex or base requires a seam, this may include a portion of the side seam of any of the seamed tubes. Where the container of the invention includes a covering strip (see below) , the covering strip may be involved in the seam of the base or the apex.

Where the apex and/or the base is formed in an aperture in the container of the invention, the aperture is preferably of smaller circumference than the circumference of the innermost tube. However, it is still within the scope of this invention that such an aperture has a larger circumference than some or all of the tubes, except the outermost tube.

Where one or more tubes in the container of the invention has a longitudinal seam (excluding the layer which has no longitudinal seam) , the seam may be a straight seam extending from one end of the container to the other. However, the seam may also be curved or sinusoidal, or it may zig-zag or it may be helical.

Features may be incorporated in one or more of the tubes comprising the container of the invention, such as fold lines, creases, patterns, grooves, cut-outs, contours, protrusions or etchings.

The container of the invention may include additions such as drinking straws, sheathed drinking straws, lids, handles, taps, and so on. The first or second tube may have one or more protrusions, designed to engage a complementary surface feature on the other tube .

As well as apertures in the apex or base, or both, the container of the invention may have one or more apertures in side walls. Each aperture, whether in an apex, a base or a side wall, may extend through one or more tubes . Each aperture may be capable of being opened and closed. Any such aperture may extend through the wall of any or all the tubes comprising the container of the invention. An aperture may be connected to a connective tube or a lid or may be part of a tap assembly.

An aperture may be either fully or partially formed in a container of the invention. To illustrate partial formation of an aperture, especially where the aperture is intended as a drinking straw piercing location or a filling site, the container material may be weakened or stamped at the desired location so that a user can complete the formation of the aperture by applying pressure before use.

An example of where an aperture extends through one tube only can arise where it is desired to provide a site for insertion of a drinking straw or a tap spike, or to allow air to enter the container. In those cases, the aperture may be made in the outer tube only, the inner tube being made of material which is relatively easy to rupture by a straw, tap spike or similar means .

Another example is the manufacture of a "bag-in-box" container, for example to hold wine. The box comprises the first tube, while the bag comprises the second tube. Each of the tubes has an aperture of similar size, the apertures being aligned with each other. A short tube, to act as an aperture tube, is inserted during manufacture, through both apertures. The end of the aperture tube which is inside the second tube after this manoeuvre is splayed to form a flange which is then sealed to the inside of the aperture in the second tube. The material of the first and the second tube, or both, may have incorporated or embedded in it a material which has useful qualities chemically or physically. Apart from examples already given, examples of such material which may be imbedded are quartz crystals, piezo electric material, photovoltaic material, semi-conductors, conductors, and materials which are responsive to external signals. As an extension of this concept, the containers of the present invention may include means to generate, transmit or receive signals or forms of energy. As an example, a container of the invention may function as a type of crystal radio-set, or an electric circuit, or a battery, or a fuel cell, or an optical fibre, or a photovoltaic cell.

By including such means as those mentioned in the preceding paragraph, it may be possible to inhibit the growth of bacteria or other organisms, for example, by transmitting energy of a particular frequency into the container. As another example, it may be possible to achieve similar results by transmitting ultraviolet radiation into the container, or be creating an ionic imbalance, so that positive or negative ions are more numerous.

If piezo electric material is used, it may vibrate at a changed frequency if the contents of the container have spoiled, for example.

As a further option, the container of the invention may be set up to provide an indication of any change in the contents of the container. Changes which it may be desirable to detect include a change in pH, an exposure of the contents to a temperature above or below a specified level, and a change in pressure, indicating spoilage. Some or all of the container may be designed to indicate such a change, for instance by changing colour. Otherwise, it may be possible to detect such a change through the use of testing means, akin to those used to test the energy level of batteries.

As a further example of material which may be incorporated in the container of the invention, especially in the wall of the innermost tube of the container, organic matter may be mentioned, such as herbs, oak or other timber chips or splinters or similar material . Any of these may be adhered to the innermost surface by any suitable method, or may be sprayed onto that surface or incorporated chemically or mechanically.

Optionally, a thin film or marking may be deposited on any of the tube surfaces by a process such as xerography or processes related to xerography.

This invention also provides a method of manufacturing a container, comprising the steps of: (i) forming a first tube; and (ii) forming a second tube, having no longitudinal seam, inside or outside the first tube.

This invention also provides a further method of manufacturing a container, comprising the steps of:

(i) forming a second tube, having no longitudinal seam; and (ii) forming a first tube inside or outside the second tube.

As a variation in the methods of the invention, steps (i) and (ii) may be carried out simultaneously, or may be reversed.

The first and second tubes may be bonded together, during the forming steps or after.

In the method of the invention, the first tube may also have no longitudinal seam. However, more commonly the first tube will be seamed longitudinally and only the second tube will have no longitudinal seam. The first tube may, of course, have more than one longitudinal seam.

The container of the invention may comprise more than tube having a longitudinal seam and/or more than one tube having no longitudinal seam. For simplicity, however, the description below will usually refer to a single first tube and a single second tube . The formation of the first tube may be achieved in traditional manner by forming a longitudinal seam in a web of material . Alternately the first tube may be formed by other methods, such as by extrusion, especially if the first tube is to have no longitudinal seam itself.

Preferably, the first tube is made by continuously forming a longitudinal seam in a web of material as set out above, and cutting the tube in the desired length from the formed end of the continuous product.

As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, the formation of the first tube can vary according to the material of which the first tube is made. Take the example where the first tube is a steel can. Some of the methods of forming a longitudinal seam in a web of steel include electromagnetic welding, edge butt welding, spot welding, projection welding, high pressure heat welding or fusion, resistance welding, induction welding, friction welding, ultrasonic welding, explosion welding, arc processors such as zerenere's, slabjanov's welding and bernado's arx process, gas fusion, fire cracker type welding, inert gas, tungsten arc process, thermic welding, inert gas metal arc process, atomic hydrogen welding, submerged arc welding, soldering, dip braising, induction soldering, resistance soldering, salt bath soldering or other soldering processes.

It is also possible to form the first tube, using a wide seam made from material other than that of the first tube. Such joining material may form a mounting site for the seamless second tube.

An example of forming the first tube so that it has no longitudinal seam is the formation of a thin walled seamless tube from a suitable material such as aluminium, other metal, steel, plastic, or fibre composite by extrusion or formation using a die .

The second tube may be larger than the first tube, even when the second tube is inside the first tube. In this embodiment, the second tube may include one or more gussets, or may be folded inside the first tube, or both. This can have advantages, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art. One of these is that the second tube can form a bladder inside the first tube.

The second tube may be brought into contact with the interior or exterior surface of the first tube while the second tube is molten; as the second tube cools, it may bond to the first tube along a substantial part of the interior or exterior surface, as the case may be.

As another embodiment, the material for the second tube may be sprayed (optionally after heating or cooling, as appropriate) onto the interior or exterior surface of the first tube as a fine particulate, suspension, powder, or globules (for example, of plastic or a thermoreactive barrier agent) and then treated to form the second tube. Optionally, the first tube may be heated or cooled to enhance setting of the second tube or bonding between the tubes .

The second tube may be formed, for example, by extrusion, such as described in connection with Figures 10 et seq. of the drawings, below. The second tube may be formed using methods other than extrusion, for example, by spraying or casting.

While the Drawings below concentrate on forming the second tube inside the first tube, it will be appreciated that similar processes can be used to form the second tube on the outside of the first tube and that these are within the scope of the present invention.

This invention also provides apparatus for manufacturing a container having a first tube formed from a web of material having opposing edges, the opposing edges being joined to form the first tube having an interior surface and an exterior surface, and the layer with no longitudinal seam being located inside the interior surface or outside the exterior surface, the apparatus including: means for forming the first tube; and means for forming the second tube inside or outside the first tube.

Preferably, the means for forming the second tube includes an extrusion or rotary spraying head. It is also preferred that a heating or cooling coil is associated with the head.

It is especially preferred to form the container of the present invention by forming the first tube in any suitable way, inserting a spraying head within the formed first tube, spraying from the spraying head second tube material in liquid or molten form to produce a second tube having no longitudinal seam.

In an embodiment, the spraying head may be a plastic film extrusion head, preferably with the ability to adjust flow and temperature of the material being sprayed.

While, for most applications, it will be preferred that the thickness of the wall for each of the first and second tubes is uniform, it is also within the scope of this invention that the first or the second tube, or both, has a wall thickness which varies from place to place.

For example, a greater wall thickness may be advantageous in certain applications. If a first or second tube is to be picked up or held during machine operation, it may be desirable to reinforce the tube wall by thickening it at the cite which will be held by the machine. In addition, it may be desirable to thicken end portions, margins, edges, corners, folds, seams, sites for joining, apertures, closure margins and so forth.

In one embodiment, the second tube is attached inside the first tube at four locations, each extending longitudinally throughout substantially the length of the first tube. In this embodiment, the second tube is made from a flexible material and can be filled (e.g., with food or beverage) so that its cross-sectional shape conforms to that of the first tube. However, when the contents are extracted (for example, during consumption) , the second tube can collapse inwardly, while maintaining its longitudinal attachment to the first tube at the four locations. The first tube in this embodiment can have structural rigidity while still permitting the contents to be extracted, without the contents being mixed with air inside the container.

In another embodiment, the second tube forms a bladder inside the first tube, which is of relatively rigid material, such as cardboard. The second tube is pinched longitudinally to form a duct running from the apex of the first tube to its base, where the second tube is attached to the first tube. If this duct communicates with the bladder, for example, at the base of the duct, it can form a pipe allowing syphoning of the contents of the bladder through a tap or outlet formed in the apex of the duct and communicating with the exterior of the first tube. This construction can be used to dispense bulk wine or other beverage, as an example.

As has been set out above, the invention includes the formation of the second tube first. As an example of this process, the second tube may be formed in such a way that it has bonded to it a web, or webbed sections from which the first tube may be formed. Alternately, the second tube may be formed and web or webbed sections bonded to it so that the web or webbed sections can be used to form the first tube.

In another embodiment, according to this invention a plurality of separate first tubes are formed and arranged head to foot, either during or after manufacture. The second tube is then formed, especially by extrusion, and bonded to the exterior surface or interior surface of each of the first tubes. More than one extrusion head may be supplied to produce multilayered tubes.

It is known in the prior art to bond a strip of covering material over a side seam, for added strength. Generally, this strip is manufactured elsewhere and wound onto a roll or ball. It is brought into proximity to the seamed tube, where it is applied to the seam and bonded thereto. This requires that the covering strip be reheated or treated or reworked. In contrast, one of the optional features of the present invention is to apply a strip which has been created in situ and which accordingly does not require reheating, treatment or reworking. If the strip, made from barrier material, is applied to the seam while the barrier material is still hot from the original manufacture of the strip, the strip will be in a molten state suitable to form a bond with most tube materials.

One or more of the tubes of the container of the invention may use barrier material to form a longitudinal side seam and this seam may be further covered by a further strip of barrier material. Preferably, the opposing edges of the webbed material from which the tube is formed are brought together and joined by the application of a strip of barrier material. A further strip of barrier material is then applied over the seam while the seam is still tacky.

The covering strip for the seam may be sprayed along the seam. It may be self setting (being mixed with an accelerator) , or it may have surface chemical or mechanical bonding properties. The covering strip may not be confined to the seam but may also cover some or all of a surface of the tube. In this way, a single strip may be used to bond two tubes together, the first tube having its seam covered by the covering strip and the second tube being bonded to the opposing face of the covering strip.

The covering strip may be applied to an existing seam, or applied to an edge prior to formation of the seam.

In another embodiment the strip may form the seal itself. As an example, a web of material, comprising cardboard (first tube material) and a lining of polyethylene (second tube material) bonded thereto has its opposing edges brought together. An extrusion head applies a strip of polyethylene to the opposing edges. This has two simultaneous effects. First, it seals the opposing edges of the cardboard, forming a first tube of cardboard having a longitudinal side seam. Secondly, it seals the polyethylene lining to form a second tube having no longitudinal seam, the covering strip melting into the lining.

The strip may have material embedded in it. For example, timber pieces may be embedded in the strip and these may be intended to give flavouring to wine in a wine cask comprising a container of the intention. As another example, a protective ceramic coating may be dusted on or embedded in the covering strip. Ceramic material, foil or other material may be used to prevent light, gas or fluid from passing through the strip.

The covering strip need not have a uniform construction. It may be composed of layers or it may have a number of different components. Further, the strip need not be of a continuous consistency but may include cavities or cells.

A covering strip may be designed to be heated or otherwise modified thermally, before being placed in position by means of pressurised heated air or gas.

It is further within the scope of this invention that a covering strip may be bonded by folding or hemming the strip to a tube face .

Two or more covering strips may be mounted, one above the other, if desired.

Where the container of the invention includes a covering strip, it is preferred that it behaves in the same manner as the surface to which it is bonded. A cover strip preferably extends for the length of the tube. Where it is desirable to have an end stop at an end of the tube, this may be formed by the strip in that region. In other embodiments, the cover strip is longer than the tube or shorter than the tube.

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the container of this invention may include a number of layered tubes, at least one of which has no longitudinal seam and which provides a barrier or a measure of structural integrity. The seamless tube (the second tube) may be located at any level within the layers of tubes. It is not necessary, however, that the second tube or that any of the other tubes has the same length as the container.

A container of the invention may be provided with a liner or bag, which may be formed independently, seamed if necessary, and placed inside or outside the container. For example, a bag made of thermo plastic material which may be attached to the container during formation of an end closure to the container. Preferably, such a lining or bag is located inside the container and is equipped with a base, side walls and an apex. Such a lining or bag may co-operate with one or more surfaces or ends of one or more of the tubes comprising the container of the invention. For example, the container of the invention may have one or more apertures which co-operate with one or more apertures in a bag. As another example, a connective tube may communicate between the interior of the bag and one or more of the tubes of the container of the invention. The bag need not be sealed but may have one or more ends open, for example. A lining or bag may be fixed to the container of the invention by gluing, melting, welding or by the use of a fixing means. Preferably, the bag or lining is inserted in the container of the invention before closing the container of the invention (where the invention is in an embodiment which requires closing) . Subsequently, after manufacturing or filling, the bag may be sealed, as may be the container.

It is also within the scope of this invention that a bag is suspended within the container of the invention, optionally with one or more connective tubes or by bonding by the apex or base of the container.

The bag may have a larger or smaller volume than the container, or compared to the innermost tube. This may be achieved, for example, by pleating some or all of the bag.

If desired, such a bag may function as a bladder. In this embodiment it is preferred that the bladder has means for communicating with the outside of the container or with one or more of the tubes, for example, by means of one or more apertures or connective tubes. The purpose for this is so that the bladder may be filled after completion of the container of the invention, or so that contents of the bladder may be extracted. In some preferred embodiments, the bladder is surrounded by increased pressure or a partial vacuum to assist in filling or extraction or material within the bladder.

As another option, the bladder may be pressurised itself, the pressure in the bladder being chosen to be greater or less than the pressure surrounding the bladder.

It is within the scope of this invention to include a bladder within a bladder.

Any of the bladders may take the form of a tube which may be seamed longitudinally or which may have no longitudinal seam. Any bladder may be collapsible or expandable to the desired degree. Suitable valves may be incorporated within the container of the invention, depending on the pressurisation chosen.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the use of varying pressures within the container of the invention can assist in ejecting contents of the container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described in relation to certain embodiments thereof, in relation to the accompanying drawings. These drawings are not intended to be limiting on the scope of the invention.

In the drawings :

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the invention being a milk carton, with the internal features being shown for convenience ; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a container with a first tube formed having two longitudinal seals (internal features being shown for convenience) ;

Fig. 3 shows the container of Fig. 2 sealed at apex and base

(internal features being shown for convenience) ;

Fig. 4 shows in perspective view from above a version of an asymmetric container with a first tube having two longitudinal seals (internal features being shown for convenience) ;

Fig. 5 is a lineal array of containers of the invention, the first tubes having a longitudinal seal;

Figs. 6 to 9 show in sequence the formation of a first tube (Figs

8 and 9 showing internal features) ;

Fig. 10 shows in schematic side elevation apparatus for making containers of the invention, in one version;

Fig. 11 is a plan view of the apparatus in Fig. 10;

Fig. 12 shows in close-up a sectional side elevation of two tube forming heads which can be used in the apparatus in Figs. 10 and

11;

Fig. 13 shows the apparatus of the invention forming a side seam covering strip;

Fig. 14 illustrates the apparatus of the invention having means for pumping cooling air into the second tube after its formation by an extrusion head;

Fig. 15 shows in sectional side elevation an extrusion head extruding a second tube inside a first tube;

Fig. 16 shows the bonding of a web of material to the interior surface of a first tube to form a second tube;

Fig. 17 shows in sectional side elevation a spraying head combined with a coil for external heating or cooling;

Fig. 18 shows in sectional side elevation an extrusion head which incorporates air cushion ride means;

Fig. 19 is a sectional side elevation of a container of the invention including a bladder;

Fig. 19a is a view of the container in Fig. 19, taken along the lines A-A of Fig. 19;

Fig. 20 is an isometric view of apparatus for forming a container of the invention;

Fig. 21 is a schematic sectional side elevation of a container of the invention which includes a bladder as well as a tap or cock;

Fig. 21a is a view of the container in Fig. 21, taken along the lines B-B of Fig. 21;

Fig. 22 is a schematic sectional side elevation of a container of the invention having a pressurised bladder m addition to a second tube ;

Figs 23 to 27 are cross-sectional views of embodiments of containers of the invention;

Fig. 28 is a perspective view (from above) of another embodiment of the container of the invention, internal features being represented by dashed lines;

Fig 29 is a perspective view (from above of a further embodiment of the container of the invention;

Figs. 30 to 33 are cross-sectional views of different embodiments of containers of the invention;

Figs. 34 and 35 are cross-sectional views of different embodiments of containers of the invention;

Figs. 36 to 40 are cross-sectional views of further embodiments of containers of the invention;

Figs. 41 to 48 are cross-sectional views of further embodiments of containers according to the invention;

Figs 49, 49A and 50 are perspective views of different embodiments of the container of the invention, with internal features being shown in dashed lines;

Figs 51 and 52 are cross-sectional and perspective views respectively of another embodiment of the container of the invention;

Fig. 53 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the container of the invention;

Fig. 54 is a sectional side elevation of a container of the invention including a cock or tap;

Fig. 55 is a sectional side elevation of a container of the invention including a bladder;

Fig. 56 is a view of the container of Fig. 55, taken along the line A-A;

Fig. 57 is a schematic sectional side view of a container of the invention having a plurality of bladders;

Fig. 58 is a schematic sectional side elevation of a container according to the invention having a plurality of taps and bladders;

Fig. 59 is a cross-sectional view of a first tube of a container of the invention, showing detail of a longitudinal side seam;

Fig. 60 is a cross-sectional view of a first tube of a container of the invention formed from two separate pieces and having two longitudinal side seams;

Fig. 61 is a cross-sectional view of a first tube of a container of the invention formed from a plurality of web pieces and having a plurality of longitudinal side seams;

Fig. 62 is a cross-sectional view of a first tube of a container of the invention, formed from two web pieces and having two longitudinal side seams;

Fig. 63 to 67 are cross-sectional views of various embodiments of containers according to the invention;

There are no Figs 68 or 69;

Figs 70 to 74 are cross-sectional views of various embodiments of containers according to the invention;

There are no Figs 75 to 79;

Fig. 80 is a perspective view of a bung for a container of the invention;

Fig. 81 is a side elevation of a different bung for a container of the invention;

Fig. 82 shows the bung of Fig. 81 in situ in a container of the invention;

Fig. 83 shows in more detail the bung of Fig. 82;

Figs 84 and 85 show arrangements slightly different from that in Fig. 83;

Figs 86 to 102 show further variations of the bung arrangement;

Figs. 103 to 112 are sectional side elevations of further embodiments of the container of the invention; and

Figs 113 to 126 are schematic cross-sectional views of further embodiments of containers according to the invention.

Turning now to Fig. 1, container 10 takes the form of a milk carton having an external surface 1 and an internal surface 4. Container 10 is folded at the base 41 and folded in a gable formation at apex 42. Side wall 1 is of cardboard while internal surface 4 is of polyethylene. Internal surface 4 has been formed without a seam by spraying polyethylene onto the cardboard.

Turning now to Fig. 2, there is illustrated container 12 made from 2 web pieces, 81 and 82. Consequently, first tube 5 has two side seams, 2 and 2a, formed by folding web piece 81 and bonding the folded edges to web piece 82. As in the case of the container in Fig. 1, internal surface 4 comprises a lining of polyethylene. In this case, the polyethylene has been extruded to attach to the internal surface of first tube 5, and contains no longitudinal seams. Container 12 in this embodiment is open at apex 46 and base 47.

Container 13 in Fig. 3 is rather similar to container 12 in Fig. 2 in that first tube 5 is made from two web pieces, 81 and 82. These are seamed longitudinally at 2 and 2a. Container 13 has a gabled apex 42 and a bung 89 at base 41.

Turning now to Fig. 4, container 14 is an asymmetric container being made up of two web pieces, 81 and 82, forming side seams 2 and 2a.

In Fig. 5 may be seen a linear array of first tubes 11a, lib and lie. Arranged in series along a common axis x-x. Seamless lining 4 is bonded to the interior surface of each of tubes 11a, lib and lie by means of an extrusion head (not shown) .

The formation of first tube 11 is illustrated in Figs. 6 to . In Fig. 6, a web of material 81 has opposing edges 111 and 112. As web 81 moves in the direction of the arrow shown in all four drawings, opposing edges 111 and 112 are brought together as shown in Figs. 7 and 8 until they are adhered together as shown in Fig. 9 to form first tube 11.

Alternately, web 81 may be two-layered, one layer being of first tube material and the other layer being of second tube material . When opposing edges 111 and 112 are brought together as in Fig. 9, they may be sealed by the application of polyethylene, which also serves to seal the polyethylene lining on web piece 81.

Turning now to Figs. 10 and 11, a roll 68 of first tube material 7 is drawn over a mandrel 56. Opposing edges 111 and 112 (not shown) are brought together and bonded by the application of adhesive at dosing wheel 58 and the application of the pressure by wheels 57. Extrusion head 61 extrudes a second tube (not shown) inside of the first tube and is optionally bonded to the first tube along its interior surface. The concentric first and second tubes advance towards drag rollers 59 and 59a and are presented to cutting station 60 and 60a, where desired lengths of the concentric tubes 1 and 2 are cut and stacked at location 3, ready for use .

It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that a similar process can be used to form the second tube outside the first tube .

As can be seen in Fig. 11, mandrel nose 62 assists in forming side seam 2.

In Fig. 12 can be seen in close-up a detail of extrusion head 61 which itself is set inside a further extrusion head 61c. Both extrusion heads 61 and 61c are located inside wall 1 of the first tube. As the first tube travels in the direction of the arrow A, extrusion head 61c forms a seamless tube 8 on the interior surface of the first tube, while extrusion head 61 forms a second seamless tube 9 on the internal surface of the first seamless tube 8.

Fig. 13 shows how a side seam covering strip 6 can be extruded via mandrel 56 and extrusion head 61 on to a longitudinal side seam of first tube 5. As first tube 5 travels in the direction of arrow A, being advanced by belts 15 and 16 driven by rollers 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 and 27 a seam of polyethylene 6 is extruded along the longitudinal side seam of first tube 5. Fig. 14 shows how extrusion head 61 may include pressurising means 298 so that cooling air or gas may be pumped into second tube 8 after it has been formed.

Fig. 15 shows in detail an extrusion head 61 disposed inside first tube 5 formed with side seam 2, and it shows the formation of second tube 8 within first tube 5.

Fig. 16 shows how a web 4g can be drawn inside first tube 5, optionally heated by coil 78 around extrusion head 61 and, after leaving extrusion head 61, bonding to the interior surface of first tube 5, which has a longitudinal seam, to form seamless second tube 8.

In Fig. 17, an external coil 79 is located around the outside of formed tube 5 having longitudinal seam 2. External coil 79 can heat or cool tube 5 as required. Rotary spray head 61 can spray a fine mist or dust or chips to form seamless tube 8.

A further variation of the apparatus of the invention is illustrated in Fig. 18. As first tube 5 travels in direction 153, second tube 8 is formed, without a longitudinal side seam from extrusion head 61. As can be seen from Fig.18, first tube 5 has two layers, 1A and IB. Extrusion head 61 includes air cushion ride means 72.

Fig. 19 will be described below.

Turning now to Fig. 20, this gives an isometric view of a container forming apparatus of the invention. As web 81 is fed into the apparatus, mandrel nose 62 provides polyethylene from source 55 to both form a longitudinal side seam 2 in web 81 and also to extrude on the interior surface second seamless tube 8. Formed tube 5 is driven by rollers 63. External coil 79 provides heating or cooling to the formed tubes, as required.

The formed tubes advance through rollers 59 and 59a to docking station 60, 60A, where the tubes are cut to the desired length. Fig. 19 shows a container 14 of the invention including a bladder 21. Bladder 21 forms the second seamless tube 8 in the container of the invention in this embodiment. Bladder 21 is collapsible within first tube 5.

Fig. 19A is a sectional view of the container 14 of Fig. 19, taken along the lines A-A of Fig.19. As can be seen from both Figs. 19 and 19A, first tube 5 has an apex 42 while second tube 8 (being bladder 21) has an apex 42G. In this embodiment, tubes 5 and 8 share a base, 41.

Container 14 in Fig. 21 is similar to that in Figs. 19 and 19A, except that tap assembly 138 is included, into second tube 8. In addition, second tube 8 is sealed at its apex 42G and its base 41g by folding.

Container 14 in Fig. 22 has a bladder 21 which is in addition to second, seamless tube 8 inside first tube 5. Bladder 21 in this embodiment is a spherical balloon which can be expanded as required.

Turning now to Figs. 23 to 27, these are cross-sectional views of cylindrical containers of the invention. Each has a first tube 5 and a second tube 8. In Fig. 23, a third tube 161 has been extruded or formed interiorly of second tube 8 and is mounted on the interior surface of second tube 8. Third tube 161 is not concentric with first tube 5 and second tube 8.

The embodiment in Fig. 24 shows a plurality of tube layers, being first tube 5, second tube 8 and intermediate tubes 17 and 18.

In Fig. 25, there is one intermediate tube 17.

In Fig. 26, second tube 8 is connected to first tube 5. Inside second tube 8 is third tube 17, tubes 5, 8 and 17 being concentric. However, fourth tube 141A is inserted between tubes 17 and 8, tube 141A not being concentric with the other tubes. The embodiment in Fig. 27 shows how tube 8 need not follow the cross-sectional outline of tube 5 (or 17) .

Turning now to Fig. 28, container 13 in this embodiment has two longitudinal side seams 2, being formed from two web pieces 81 and 82. Second tube 8 is not illustrated.

Container 13 in Fig. 29 has its base 41 formed by folding and a gabled apex 42. First tube 5 is bonded on its interior surface to second tube 8 (not shown) .

Container 14 in Fig. 30 has first tube 5 outside second tube 8. First tube 5 has longitudinal side seam 2 which is covered by cover strip 650. A second cover strip 630 is bonded to the exterior surface of first tube 5, leaving a trapped space 635 between cover strip 30 and exterior face of first tube 5.

Container 14 in Fig. 31 has first tube 5 with longitudinal side seam 2 and second tube 8 bonded to the interior surface of first tube 5.

Container 14 in Fig. 32 has first tube 5 formed with an overlapping seam 2 and second tube 8, occupying approximately half the volume of first tube 5.

Container 14 in Fig. 33 shows first tube 5 with two side seams, 2 and 2A. Second tube 4 is located in board of first tube 5.

Container 13 in Fig. 34 has first tube 5 outside second tube 8, first tube 5 being seamed at 2 by cover strip 6.

Container 13 in Fig. 35 has second tube 8 inside first tube 5, which is seamed at 2 by cover strip 6, as illustrated.

Container 13 in Fig. 36 includes protrusion 444 formed in both first tube 5 and second tube 8.

Container 13 in Fig. 37 has additional dividing walls 4A and 4B, enclosing space 445.

Container 13 in Fig. 38 also has a dividing wall, 4X.

Dividing walls 4A and 4B in Fig. 37 and 4X in Fig. 38 are preferably made of the same material as that forming second tube 8.

Container 13 in Fig. 39 has first tube 5 having seam 2 formed inside second tube 8. Solid tube 423 is disposed inside first tube 5 and contains spaces 483, 484, 485.

In Fig. 40, tube 5 has its opposing edges 111 and 112 overlapping to form side seam 2. Second tube 8 is relatively solid and encloses spaces 483, 485, 484 and 445.

In Fig. 41, first tube 5 is outside second tube 8 and it can be seen that opposing edges 111 and 112 are joined inside seam 2. Second tube 8 includes "T"-bar 19 which creates spaces 483 and 485.

Turning now to Fig. 41A, this shows a container 13 which has two separate tubes 5 formed from web pieces 81 and 82, and formed in parallel by using an array of extrusion forming heads 61. In this embodiment, two volumes or spaces 483 and 484 are formed.

Container 13 in Fig. 42 has tube 5 formed from web pieces 81 and 82 and having side seams 2, second tube 8 being bonded to portions of tube 5 to form two spaces 483 and 484.

Container 13 in Fig. 43 is of similar constructions, resulting in spaces 483 and 484.

Similarly, in Fig. 44 tubes 5 and 8 enclose spaces 483 and 484.

Container 13 in Fig. 45 also has spaces 483 and 484 enclosed by tubes 5 and 8. However, side seam 2 effectively connects the part of container 13 containing space 483 to the part of container 13 containing space 484.

Container 14 in Fig. 46 shows in cross-sectional view how the wall of tube 5 or tube 8 need not be of constant cross- section.

Container 13 in Fig. 47 is similar to container 13 of Fig. 45, with seam 2 joining the different parts of container 13 together.

Fig. 48 is somewhat similar to Figs. 45 and 47.

Fig. 49 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of the container of the invention. In this embodiment, in which the container is open-ended, first tube 5 lies outside second tube 8 and has side seam 2. The cross-sectional shape of the container is rectangular.

In Fig. 49A, container 13 forms a cylinder having an axis X- X.

Container 13 in Fig. 50 forms a tetrahedron, having base 41 and apex 42.

Turning now to Fig. 52, container 13 has tube 5 made of separate web pieces 81 and 82, seamed at 2. Bladder 21 is contained within container 13 and can regulate the space occupied by product 888. Container 13 is sealed at base 41 and apex 42 by end stops.

Container 13 in Fig. 53 has second seamless tube 4 mounted inside first, seamed tube 5. Apex 42 and base 41 are stopped by bungs. These bungs may include apertures (not shown) .

With reference to Fig. 54, container 13 has a first, seamed tube 5 coated with a second, seamless tube 8, inside which is a bladder 21. Bladder 21 includes smaller bladders 21A and 21B.

Tubes 5 and 8 and bladders 21 and 21A have a common base 41 and separate apices 42 and 42g. Tap assembly 138 provides access to bladder 21. Turning now to Fig. 55, this is similar to container 13 in Fig. 54, except that tubes 5 and 8 have a common base 41 and are sealed at apex 42 by means of cap 137 on neck 139, which permits communication with container 13.

Fig. 56 is a view of the container of Fig. 55, taken along the lines A-A and omitting neck 139 and cap 137 for clarity.

Turning now to Fig. 57, container 13 has first, seamed tube 5 and second, seamless tube 8, base 41 and apex, 42 and includes bladders 2 IX and 21Z. Container 13 is thus divided internally into spaces 222 and 222A, each being accessed by connective tube 138A and 138B, respectively. In cross-section, container 13 may resemble the container illustrated in Fig. 41.

Container 13 of Fig. 58 has multiple bladders 21, 21A and 21B. Bladder 21A is accessible by tap assembly 138, while bladder 21B is accessible by tap assembly 138B.

In Fig. 59, container 13 has first tube 5 with seam 2 being formed by the overlapping of opposing edges 111 and 112. Tube 8 is not illustrated in this Figure.

Fig. 60 shows a similar view of a different embodiment, first tube 5 being formed by separate web pieces 81 and 82 and having side seam 2 formed by overlapping opposing edges 111 and 112 as in Fig. 59 and also side seam 113.

The concept in Fig. 60 is developed still further in Fig. 61, in which container 13 has first tube 5 made from web pieces 81, 82, 82A and 82B, with the side seams 113, 113A, 113B and 113C.

Container 13 in Fig. 62 is a variation on container 13 in Fig. 60, with side seams 113 and 113G being formed from opposed edges 111 and 112.

In Fig. 63, container 13 has seamless tube 8 formed outside seamed tube 5 (refer seam 2) , with cover strip 831 sealing seam 2 internally .

Container 13 in Fig. 64 has first tube 5 outside second tube 8, there being between tubes 5 and 8 an intermediate tube 17, tubes 5 and 17 being seamed at 113.

In Fig. 65, seamless second tube 8 is formed within tube 5 which is seamed by an extrusion of tube 8 to form an external cover strip 83 IX as well as seam 2.

Referring now to Fig. 66, tubes 5 and 17 are seamed by overlapping opposing edges 111 and 112 to form seam 113. Seamless tube 8 is disposed internally of tube 17.

In Fig. 67, opposed edges 111 and 112 of first tube 5 are joined by an extruded joining section 112G, formed from either the same material as first tube 5 or the same material as second tube 8. Joining section 112 may be regarded as two cover strips joined by an "I" section.

Note that there is no Fig. 68 or 69.

In Fig. 70, first tube 5 is formed by folding opposing edges 111 and 112 to form seam 113. This manner of seaming is known in the art. Seamless tube 8 (not shown) may be formed on the interior or exterior surface of seamed tube 5.

Fig. 71 shows another version of seaming first tube 5.

In Fig. 72, tube 5 is bonded to intermediate tube 17. Seamless tube 8 is of greater diameter than tubes 5 and 17 and is shown in Fig. 72 as partially collapsed. Spaces 684, 684A, 684B and 684C may be at atmospheric pressure or may be separately pressurised via connective tubes or apertures (not shown) during manufacture. Seamless tube 8 itself contains a volume 548 and is shown bonded to intermediate tubes 17 at bonding points 28, 29, 30 and 31.

Fig. 73 shows an alternate version of Fig. 72, in which, however, there is no intermediate tube 17, seamless tube 8 being partially collapsed and having a volume 548. In this embodiment, seamless tube 8 is bonded to tube 5 only at bonding point 28.

In Fig. 74, there are two seamless tubes 8 and 8A. Tube 8A is bonded to tube 5 at bonding point 28. Tube 8A is not bonded to tube 5.

Note that Figs. 75 to 79 have been omitted.

Fig. 80 is a perspective view of a bung 20 suitable for sealing an apex 42 or base 41 of an embodiment of the invention such as that in Fig. 53. Bung 20 includes groove 999 which may serve as a seat for a sealing ring (not shown) . Bung 20 may be constructed so that it has a space 32 which can be evacuated or pressurised.

Bung 20 in Fig. 81 is similar to bung 20 in Fig. 80, except it includes a connective tube 33 which may communicate at 34 to an evacuation or pressure device. By pressurising bung 20, for example, it is possible to expand it into a tight fit with walls of the tube end, so that bung 20 may be retained in a container of the invention by this pressure. It is further contemplated that a tube side wall may be sucked into bonding contact with bung 20 by evacuating or pressurising groove 999. Connective tube 33 may be used for this purpose, there being appropriate stoppers in connective tube 33 and location 34.

Turning now to Fig. 82, bung 20 of Fig. 81 is shown engaged with seamless tube 8. In the region of groove 999, tube 8 is deflected as shown at 547, which helps to retain bung 20 in apex 42 of tube 8.

Fig. 83 shows in close-up the way in which bung 20 fits into a container of the invention having concentric tubes 5 and 8.

Fig. 84 shows a variation of the arrangement in Fig. 83, except that in Fig. 84 tube 33 branches into two areas, 998 and 999. Note also lip 35 being part of bung 20. Fig. 85 shows a very similar arrangement to that in Fig. 84, except that lip 35 is more substantial.

In Fig. 86, bung 20 which is located inboard of seamless tube 8 has a lip 35 which extends over the container end. Metal balls (or wedges, or rings) 36 are movable within cavity 37 and can be moved from position 829 to position 816. In so moving, arm 38 is pushed into contact with portion 791 of the container. Thus, bung 20 may be fitted to an apex or base of container 13 without the need to use suction or pressure as described in previous examples .

In Fig. 87, bung 20 has a flexible region 39 which can be pushed into the wall formed by tubes 8 and 5 by applying pressure to arm 38 via aperture 261. For example, a mechanical finger may be used to apply this pressure. Flexible region 39 is then bonded in place to tube 8 by melting, adhesive, ultra-sonic welding or the like.

With reference to Fig. 88, bung 20 has an aperture 261 which has at its base a hinged floor 40. If a vacuum is applied to aperture 262, base 40 would attempt to straighten, thereby pushing arm 38 into contact with tube 8, where once again it can be bonded in place as previously described.

In Fig. 89, bung 20 has a flexible base 40 which is of inverse configuration to that in Fig. 88. Insertion of a suitable tool through aperture 263 will cause base 40 to straighten, thus pushing section 429 of bung 20 into contact with tube 8, where it can be secured.

Turning now to Fig. 90, bung 20 has two tubed apertures, 33 and 33A, terminating in closed bulbs 511 and 512 respectively. Addition of pressure or vacuum to apertures 33 and 33A will enable bung 20 to seal container 13.

Fig. 91 shows a similar arrangement to that of Fig. 90, except that, while aperture 33A terminates in bulb 512, aperture 33 has no such terminal bulb. The arrangement in Fig. 91 is suitable for adding pressure to aperture 33A, for example, and vacuum to aperture 33, for example, or vice versa.

In Fig. 92, if protrusion R of bung 20 is pressured, this will lever extension 351 into contact with tube 8. Further, lip 35 will also tend to be brought into contact with tube 5.

Referring now to Fig. 93, this has some similarity to Fig. 86, in that it includes a metal ball, ring or wedge 36 which can be forced towards end 816 in order to contact bung 20 with, this time, first tube 5 which is inside second tube 8.

Turning now to Fig. 94, bung 20 has flexible arm 38 with end 43. Upon pressurisation or evacuation of aperture 33, end 43 is pulled into sealing relationship with tube 8.

A somewhat similar arrangement is shown in Fig. 95, from which tubes 5 and 8 have been omitted for clarity. When aperture 33 is pressured or evacuated, the shape of cavity 45 will change, either flexing arm 38 and end 43 upwardly towards apex 42 or downwardly towards base 41, in either case forming contact with tube 8 or 5.

In Fig. 96, the arrangement is very similar to that in Fig. 90, there being only one aperture 33 instead of two.

The arrangement in Fig. 97 is similar to that in Fig. 90, except that aperture 33 has two branches, one ending in bulb 511 and the other ending in bulb 512.

The arrangement in Fig. 98 is similar to that in Fig. 89, except that base 40 is somewhat closer to the top of aperture 33.

In Fig. 99, bung 20 includes a type of clamp 421. Cavity 983 may be evacuated or clamp 421 may be pre-tensioned so that it will grip tubes 5 and 8. In Fig. 100, bung 20 is made of the same material as tubes 5 and

8, the material of tube 8 on bung 20 being on the surface of bung

20 which is designed to contact tube 8. Evacuation can be applied through aperture 33.

A similar arrangement is shown in Fig. 101, illustrating how bung 20 can be composed of a layer of the material of tube 5 and a layer of the material of tube 8.

Fig. 102 shows an arrangement somewhat similar to that in previous Figures .

Container 13 in Fig. 103 is suitable for use to contain toothpaste or similar material, having a bladder or piston 21 which can drive contents of container 13 through outlet 135.

Container 13 in Fig. 104 has bladder 21 inboard of tubes 5 and 8. Tap assembly 138 provides communication with the contents of container 13.

Container 13 in Fig. 105 has bladder 21 which is of thyroidal or doughnut-type construction in cross-section. Bottle-cap 137 is stored inside container 13 and is connected to connective tube 139, which can be pulled free of container 13 where it is desired to contact the contents.

In Fig. 106, container 13 has three bladders, 21, 21A and 21B.

In Fig. 107, container 13 again has a doughnut-shaped bladder 21, tap assembly 138 leading into the hole in the doughnut- shaped bladder.

Container 13 in Fig. 138 has a bladder or piston 21 and cord 87 assisting in lifting of container 13.

Container 13 in Fig. 109 has bladder 21 forming a plunger connected to handle 88 through outlet 139A. In Fig. 110, bladder 21 is trapped in base 41 and connected by a tube 139. Bladder 21 can be pressurised to any desirable extent, to assist contents of container 13 being expressed through tap assembly 138.

Container 13 in Fig. Ill is suitable for use for dispensing glue or adhesive, for example. Air, or other fluid inserted via connective tube 139 or 139A, pushes bladder 21 towards apex 42 and out nozzle 83.

Container 13 in Fig. 112 is somewhat similar to that in Fig. Ill, except that contents 86 may be urged towards nozzle outlet 83 by pressing on bladder 21.

To illustrate how the container of the invention can take a number of cross-sectional shapes, reference is made to Figs. 113 to 126. In Fig. 113, container 13 forms two sets of tubes, side by side, each having concentric tubes 5 and 8.

In Fig. 114, container 13 is made from two web pieces, 81 and 82 forming tube 5, seamed at 2. Continuous tube 8 is a lining inside tube 5. Container 13 in Fig. 115 is similar to that in 114, except that a third web of material 64 is added to web 81 and cavity 65 formed therein.

Fig. 116 shows part only of a container 13, being made of two webs of material, 81 and 82, web 81 being flat and web 82 being formed into a corrugated shape. The container of Fig. 116 may be suitable for use in solar heating apparatus, for example.

Container 13 in Fig. 117 has tube 5 lined by tube 8 and bladder 21 disposed in the thyroidal space within container 13.

Container 13 in Fig. 118 has web 81 in a corrugated shape as well as web 82. Seamless tube 8 is extruded inside web pieces 81 and 82, as shown in the left hand cavity 65.

In Fig. 119, a dividing sheet 66 divides container 13 into two sections internally, 51 and 52.

In Fig. 120, seamless tube 8 does not line seamed tube 5 but occupies part only of the space formed within seamed tube 5.

Fig. 121 is very similar to Fig. 116, except that separate web pieces 81A, 81B and 81C are provided. Fig. 122 illustrates how, in the container of Fig. 121, seamless tube 8 may be inserted together with bladders 21, 21A and 21B.

Fig. 123 is very similar to Fig. 119, except that dividing sheet 66 is of even thickness. Similarly, container 13 in Fig. 124 is similar to Figs. 119 and 123 except that dividing sheet 66 is somewhat thinner in cross-section. In Fig. 125, it can be seen how seamless tube 8 can cooperate with dividing sheet 66. Fig. 126 shows how a container similar to that in Fig. 123 can be formed by folding web 81 to form dividing sheet 66.

This invention has far-reaching applications, and is not limited to food and beverage containers. In some embodiments, the container of the invention can be suitable for containing a wide range and diversity of goods and substances. As a mere example, the embodiment in Figure 121 could be used as part of solar heating apparatus.

As will be apparent to one skilled in the art, the method of this invention can facilitate faster manufacture of lined or coated containers. In addition, this invention can produce lined or coated containers with minimum disturbance to the lining or coating.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

It will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the container, the method and the apparatus of the present invention represent a significant advance in the art of packaging, being capable of providing improved containers which can overcome many of the problems faced by presently-known containers.

Claims

1. A container having a plurality of layers, one of which has no longitudinal seam.

2. A container as claimed in claim 1, wherein the container has a first tube formed from a web of material having opposing edges, the opposing edges being joined to form the first tube having an interior surface and an exterior surface, and the layer with no longitudinal seam is located inside the interior surface or outside the exterior surface.

3. A container as claimed in claim 2, wherein the layer with no longitudinal seam forms a second tube substantially coaxial with the first tube.

4. A container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the layer with no longitudinal seam is a barrier material.

5. A container as claimed in claim 4, wherein the barrier material is chosen from the group comprising polypropylene, polyethylene, polyurethane and urea.

6. A container as claimed in claim 4 or 5 , wherein substantially all of the interior surface of the first tube is bonded directly to the barrier material .

7. A container as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein substantially all of the exterior surface of the first tube is bonded directly to the barrier material.

8. A container as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein substantially all of the interior surface of the first tube is bonded to the barrier material via one or more intermediate layers.

9. A container as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein substantially all of the exterior surface of the first tube is bonded to the barrier material via one or more intermediate layers.

10. A container as claimed in claim 4 or 5 , wherein substantially none of the interior or exterior surface of the first tube is bonded directly to the barrier material .

11. A container as claimed in claim 4 or 5, wherein substantially none of the interior or exterior surface of the first tube is bonded to the barrier material via one or more intermediate layers .

12. A container as claimed in claim 10 or 11, wherein the container has an apex and a base and the barrier material is attached to the first tube at the apex, or at the base or at both the apex and base.

13. A container as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the bonding is by means of friction, stitching, lacing gluing, riveting, clamping or stapling.

14. A container having: a first tube formed from a web of material having opposing edges, the opposing edges being joined to form the first tube having an interior surface and an exterior surface; a second tube, with no longitudinal seam, located inside the interior surface or outside the exterior surface of the first tube ; and a third tube located between the first and second tubes; the first, second and third tubes being substantially coaxial.

15. A container having: a first tube formed from a web of material having opposing edges, the opposing edges being joined to form the first tube having an interior surface and an exterior surface; a second tube, with no longitudinal seam, located inside the interior surface or outside the exterior surface of the first tube ; and a third tube; the second tube being located between the first and third tubes and the first, second and third tubes being substantially coaxial .

16. A container as claimed in claim 1, wherein the container takes the form chosen from the group consisting of a tube, a bag, a carton, a can, a pillow and a sachet.

17. A container as claimed in claim 16, wherein each of the plurality of layers is chosen form the group consisting of thermoplastic material, cardboard, and aluminium foil.

18. A method of manufacturing a container, comprising the steps of:

(i) forming a first tube; and

(ii) forming a second tube, having no longitudinal seam, inside or outside the first tube.

20. A method as claimed in claim 18 or 19, wherein steps (i) and (ii) are carried out simultaneously.

21. A method as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the first tube is formed from a web of material having opposing edges, the opposing edges being joined to form the first tube.

22. A method as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the first tube is formed by extrusion and has no longitudinal seam.

23. A method as claimed in claim 18, wherein the second tube is formed by spraying or casting second tube material onto the first tube .

24. Apparatus for manufacturing a container having a first tube formed from a web of material having opposing edges, the opposing edges being joined to form the first tube having an interior surface and an exterior surface, and the layer with no longitudinal seam being located inside the interior surface or outside the exterior surface, the apparatus including: means for forming the first tube; and means for forming the second tube inside or outside the first tube.

25. Apparatus as claimed in claim 24, wherein the means for forming the second tube includes an extrusion or rotary spraying head.

26. Apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein a heating or cooling coil is associated with the head.

27. A container substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the accompanying drawings .

28. A method of making a container substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the accompanying drawings.

29. Apparatus for making a container substantially as herein described with reference to any one of the accompanying drawings .