FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates evacuating packages. More in particular the invention relates to evacuating bulk packages. The invention also relates to filling packages with controlled atmospheres and/or testing the atmosphere inside packages.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

It is known to evacuate a package, such as a vacuum package filled with a product such as nuts, wherein the package is at least partially made of packaging film and wherein use is made of a suction device provided with a suction opening, for evacuating the package through an aperture in the packaging film. Such packages can be bulk packages of e.g. approximately 1000 liters. A method for evacuating a packaging is for example known from WO2008/022815A1. In this known method, the packaging film includes an opening that does not register with an opening of an underlying plate, and suction by the suction device lifts the packaging film off the plate to allow for air flow between the non-registering openings.

The known methods have the drawback that evacuating the package is performed at relatively slow rates. Also, the known methods have the drawback that it is cumbersome to sample the gaseous content of the package after closing of the package, e.g. as part of quality control.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the invention to obviate or at least diminish the above disadvantages. It is also an object of the invention to provide an improved method for degassing and/or (re)gassing a package. Thereto according to the invention is provided a method for gassing and/or degassing a package. The package includes a packaging film enclosing an inner space holding a product. The package includes an, optionally substantially rigid, element connected to the packaging film along a circumferential sealing contour. The element has an opening within the contour for allowing gas to enter or leave the inner space. The element has a sealing surface surrounding the opening. The method includes sealingly abutting a suction device against an outer side of the package, at a location of the, e.g. substantially rigid, element. The method further includes providing a lid arranged for sealingly abutting against the sealing surface for closing the opening, and an actuator for selectively moving the lid from a first to a second position. In the first position the lid is offset relative to the sealing surface so as to allow gas to enter or leave the inner space. In the second position the lid sealingly abuts against the sealing surface for closing the opening. The method further includes with the lid in the first position operating the suction device for gassing and/or degassing the inner space. The method further includes closing the opening by operating the actuator so as to move the lid into the second position.

The lid is a separate part of the package, separate from the packaging film. It will be appreciated that providing the lid as a separate part of the package provides the advantage that the lid can be lifted off the sealing surface so as to provide an aperture of relatively large cross section. The cross section can be much larger than when lifting the packaging film itself off the, e.g. substantially rigid, element. Therefore degassing, and (re)gassing, can be effected at much larger flow rates.

Optionally, the lid is a substantially rigid lid. This allows for easy moving of the lid from the first to the second position.

Optionally, the lid can be moved from the first position to the second position and vice versa. This allows for closing and re-opening, for instance repeated closing and opening, of the package. It will be appreciated that the lid may for instance be re-opened for sampling a pressure inside the package. Alternatively, or additionally, the lid may be re-opened for sampling a gaseous content in the package, e.g. for determining a composition of the gaseous content, and/or for determining a partial pressure of a constituent gas, such as oxygen.

Optionally, e.g. after degassing the inner space and prior to closing the opening, the package is filled with an inert gas.

Optionally, the actuator is operated by gas pressure. The actuator may e.g. be operated by an underpressure. Optionally, the actuator is arranged for drawing the lid towards the first position by means of underpressure. Optionally, a pump used for gassing and/or degassing the inner space is also used for actuating the actuator.

Optionally, the method includes gassing and/or degassing the inner space via a first connection and drawing the lid towards the first position via a second connection. The first connection can e.g. be a first port for a first vacuum line. The second connection can e.g. be a second port for a second vacuum line.

According to an aspect is provided a method for gassing and/or degassing a package including a packaging film enclosing an inner space holding a product and a port device connected to the packaging film along a circumferential sealing contour. The port device has an opening within the contour for allowing gas to enter or leave the inner space and a sealing surface surrounding the opening. The port device has a lid arranged for sealingly abutting against the sealing surface for closing the opening. The lid is selectively moveable from a first position to a second position. In the first position the lid is offset relative to the sealing surface so as to allow gas to enter or leave the inner space. In the second position the lid sealingly abuts against the sealing surface for closing the opening. The method includes sealingly abutting a suction device against an outer side of the package, at a location of the port device. The suction device has a first connection for being in fluid communication with the opening for degassing the inner space and a second connection for being in fluid communication with the lid. The method includes operating the second connection of the suction device for moving the lid to the first position. The method includes with the lid in the first position operating the first connection of the suction device for gassing and/or degassing the inner space. The method includes closing the opening by operating the second connection of the suction device so as to move the lid into the second position.

The invention also relates to a packaging system. The packaging system includes a package including a packaging film enclosing an inner space for holding a product. The packaging system also includes a suction device for removing gas from the inner space and/or supplying gas to the inner space. The packaging system includes an, optionally substantially rigid, element connected to the packaging film along a circumferential sealing contour. The element has an opening within the contour for allowing gas to enter or leave the inner space. The element further has a sealing surface surrounding the opening. The packaging system includes a lid arranged for sealingly abutting against the sealing surface for closing the opening. The packaging system includes an actuator for selectively moving the lid from a first to a second position. In the first position the lid is offset relative to the seahng surface so as to allow gas to enter or leave the inner space. In the second position the lid sealingly abuts against the sealing surface for closing the opening.

The system with the actuatable lid allows for easy closing and/or opening of the package. Also, positioning the lid in the first position allows for a relatively large aperture between the lid and the substantially rigid element, allowing for degassing and/or (re)gassing at large flow rates. This decreases the time needed for degassing and/or (re)gassing.

Optionally, the actuator is part of the package. This provides the advantage that the package has a self-contained actuatable mechanism, allowing actuating of the lid at will. Thus, for instance a pressure and/or a gaseous content of the package can easily be checked by re-actuating the lid.

Optionally, the actuator is part of the suction device. This provides the advantage that the package may be at a smaller cost. Also, this may prevent accidental actuation, since the actuator has to be consciously applied to the package.

Optionally, the actuator includes a biasing element for biasing the lid towards the second position. This provides the advantage that the lid will be in the second position, i.e. closed, when not actively actuated. The biasing element may e.g. be a resilient element, such as an O-ring. It is also possible that the biasing element forms part of the package, e.g. when the actuator is part of the suction device.

Optionally, the actuator is arranged for drawing the lid towards the first position by means of underpressure. Optionally, a pump used for degassing the inner space is also used for actuating the actuator. It is also possible that the actuator is actuated differently, e.g. by means of an electromagnet, pressurized gas, hydraulics or the like.

Optionally, the suction device has a first connection for being in fluid communication with the opening for gassing and/or degassing the inner space and a second connection for being in fluid communication with the actuator. The first connection can e.g. be a first port for a first vacuum line. The second connection can e.g. be a second port for a second vacuum line.

Optionally, the, optionally substantially rigid, element includes a first port for being in fluid communication with a first vacuum line for degassing the inner space and/or a first gas line for gassing the inner space and a second port for being in fluid communication with a second vacuum line for actuating the actuator.

Optionally, the packaging system includes a control unit arranged for controlling the actuator and for controlling degassing and/or (re)gassing of the package. The control unit may be arranged for automating the process. The control unit may be arranged for first bringing or keeping the lid in the first position, then gassing and/or degassing the package and subsequently brining the lid into the second position.

Optionally, the package further includes a valve for allowing sampling of a gaseous content of the packaging after closing of the opening. The valve can e.g. be a check valve. The valve can be formed by two abutting membranes, each membrane having an aperture, the apertures being sideways offset relative to each other. The valve allows for creating a closeable opening in the package. Preferably, a flow capacity of the valve is much smaller than a flow capacity provided by the opened lid. Therefore, opening the valve may not introduce the risk of sudden degassing of the package. However, opening of the valve does allow sampling of the gaseous content of the package, e.g. for determining a pressure inside the package and/or a composition and/or a partial pressure of a constituent gas in the package.

Optionally, the valve is part of the lid. Since the lid overlies the opening in the substantially rigid member, providing the valve in the lid obviates the need for an additional opening through the package wall.

Optionally, the suction device includes a valve deactivator for deactivating the valve while the lid is in the first position. It will be appreciated that the valve could allow gas to pass through while the actuator tries to suck the lid into the first position. Therefore, it can be advantageous to deactivate the valve when the lid is in or close to the first position.

Optionally, the suction device includes an inner suction device and an outer suction device. The inner suction device bears against the substantially rigid element. The inner suction device abuts against the substantially rigid element or against the packaging film overlying the substantially rigid element. The outer suction device does not bear against the substantially rigid element. The outer suction device abuts the packaging film in an area not overlying the substantially rigid element. The inner suction device is arranged for actuating the lid. The outer suction device is arranged for evacuating the package. This provides the advantage that the content, e.g. a powder, is not, or at least less, compacted underneath the substantially rigid element upon evacuating the package. Hence, evacuation speed can be increased.

According to an aspect is provided a packaging system including a package including a packaging film enclosing an inner space for holding a product and a suction device for removing gas from the inner space and/or for providing gas to the inner space. The packaging system further includes an element connected to the packaging film along a circumferential sealing contour. The element has an opening within the contour for allowing gas to enter or leave the inner space. The element further has a sealing surface surrounding the opening. The packaging system includes a lid arranged for sealingly abutting against the sealing surface for closing the opening. The packaging system includes an actuator for selectively moving the lid from a first to a second position. In the first position the lid is offset relative to the sealing surface so as to allow gas to enter or leave the inner space. In in the second position the lid sealingly abuts against the sealing surface for closing the opening. The actuator is arranged for drawing the lid towards the first position by means of underpressure. The suction device has a first connection for being in fluid communication with the opening for gassing and/or degassing the inner space and a second connection for being in fluid communication with the actuator.

The invention also relates to a package of the packaging system. The package can include a packaging film enclosing an inner space for holding a product. The package can include a substantially rigid element connected to the packaging film along a circumferential sealing contour. The element has an opening within the contour for allowing gas to enter or leave the inner space. The element further has a sealing surface surrounding the opening. The package can also include a lid arranged for sealingly abutting against the sealing surface for closing the opening.

Optionally, the package includes an actuator arranged for selectively moving the lid from a first to a second position. In the first position the lid is offset relative to the sealing surface so as to allow gas to enter or leave the inner space. In the second position the lid sealingly abuts against the sealing surface for closing the opening. Optionally , the package further includes a valve for allowing sampling of a gaseous content of the packaging after closing of the opening. The valve can e.g. be placed in the hd.

According to an aspect is provided a package including a packaging film enclosing an inner space for holding a product. The package includes a port device connected to the packaging film along a circumferential sealing contour. The port device has an opening within the contour for allowing gas to enter or leave the inner space. The port device further has a sealing surface surrounding the opening. The package includes a hd arranged for sealingly abutting against the sealing surface for closing the opening. The port device includes a first port for being in fluid communication with a first vacuum line for gassing and/or degassing the inner space and a second port for being in fluid communication with a second vacuum line for moving the lid.

The invention also relates to a kit of parts including a substantially rigid element arranged to be connected to a packaging film along a circumferential sealing contour, the element having an opening within the contour for allowing gas to pass through, the element further having a sealing surface surrounding the opening and a lid arranged for sealingly abutting against the sealing surface for closing the opening. It will be appreciated that the kit of parts is suitable to be used in connection with a package formed by a packaging film enclosing an inner space for holding a product. The substantially rigid element can e.g. be connected to the packaging film at the circumferential sealing contour.

Optionally the kit of parts further includes an actuator for selectively moving the lid from a first to a second position, wherein in the first position the lid is offset relative to the sealing surface for allowing gas to pass through the opening, and wherein in the second position the lid sealingly abuts against the sealing surface for closing the opening. The lid may include a valve for allowing sampling of a gaseous content across the lid.

According to an aspect is provided a port device for being connected to a packaging film along a circumferential sealing contour. The port device includes an opening within the contour for allowing gas to pass through the port device. The port device further has a sealing surface surrounding the opening. The port device includes a lid arranged for sealingly abutting against the sealing surface for closing the opening. The port device includes a first port for being in fluid communication with a first gas line for passing gas through opening and a second port for being in fluid communication with a second vacuum line for moving the lid.

According to an aspect is provided a port device, comprising a port housing with an interior space. The housing has at least one content opening communicating the interior space to the outside. The housing has at least one gas exchange opening communicating the interior space to the outside. The housing has at least one actuator opening communicating the interior space to the outside. The port device includes a gas flow path extending between the content opening and the gas exchange opening for fluid flow between the content opening and the gas exchange opening in either direction. The port device includes at least one lid arranged within the interior space. The port device includes a first sealing element arranged within the interior space and surrounding the content opening. The port device includes a second sealing element arranged within the interior space and surrounding the actuator opening. The second sealing element sealingly engages the housing and sealingly engages the lid. The second sealing element is effective to prevent fluid flow between the actuator opening and the content opening. The second sealing element is effective to prevent fluid flow between the actuator opening and the gas exchange opening. The lid is displaceable between a closed position and a released position. In the closed position the hd seahngly engages the first sealing element to effectively close the gas flow path. In the released position the lid is free from the first sealing element to allow fluid flow in the gas flow path. The port device further comprises bias means for biasing the lid towards the closed position.

According to an aspect is provided a package including a packaging film enclosing a content space for holding a content product. The packaging film has an opening provided with the described port device. The content opening communices with the content space. The gas exchange opening and actuator opening communicating to the outside of the

packaging film.

According to an aspect is provided a method for degassing a package including a port device as described. The method comprises the steps of:

a) connecting an actuator suction device to the actuator opening and connecting a gas suction device to the gas exchange opening;

b) operating the actuator suction device to increase underpressure to move the hd to the released position;

c) operating the gas suction device for degassing the package content space;

d) operating the actuator suction device to reduce underpressure to move the hd to the closed position.

Optionally, the method further includes the steps of:

e) disconnecting the gas suction device from the gas exchange opening; f) connecting a gas supply device to the gas exchange opening;

g) operating the actuator suction device to increase underpressure to move the lid to the released position;

h) operating the gas supply device for filling the package with an inert gas;

i) operating the actuator suction device to reduce underpressure to move the lid to the closed position.

Optionally, the method further includes after step d) and/or after step i) the steps of:

j) disconnecting the gas suction device from the gas exchange opening;

k) connecting a gas sampling device and/or a gas pressure measuring device to the gas exchange opening;

1) operating the actuator suction device to increase underpressure to move the lid to the released position;

m) operating the gas sampling device and/or a gas pressure

measuring device for measuring a pressure and/or gas content of the package content space;

n) operating the actuator suction device to reduce underpressure to move the lid to the closed position.

An advantage of the port device, and the package provided with the port device, is that it is possible to couple an actuator suction device to the actuator opening and to open or close the opening to the package content space by applying or removing underpressure, and, independently from the actuator suction device, to couple to the gas exchange opening a gas suction device for removing gas from the package content space or a gas supply device for filling the package content space with inert gas.

Moreover, using the actuator suction device allows simple mounting of the suction device to the package. No fasteners or clamps are required which could damage or stress the package. The suction device can simply be placed onto the package in a linear motion without necesitating screwing or the like. The actuator suction device can provides for automatic adhering and/or sealing of the suction device to the package. The gas suction device can then independently be operated for gassing, degassing or regassing the package. Also, actuation of the lid is independent from gassing or degassing of the package.

It will be appreciated that any of the aspects, features and options described in view of package or packaging system or port device apply equally to the method and vice versa. It will also be clear that any one or more of the above aspects, features and options can be combined.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure la is a schematic exploded view of an embodiment of a package part;

Figure lb is a schematic view of the package part in a first mode; Figure lc is a schematic view of the package part in a second mode;

Figure 2 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a suction device;

Figure 3a is a schematic view of an embodiment of a packaging system;

Figure 3b is a schematic view of the packaging system in a first mode;

Figure 4a is a schematic view of an embodiment of a packaging system;

Figure 4b is a schematic view of the packaging system in a first mode;

Figure 4c is a schematic view of the packaging system in a fourth mode; Figure 4d is a schematic representation of a diagram representing pressure as a function of time;

Figure 5a is a schematic exploded view of an embodiment of a packaging system;

Figure 5b is a schematic view of the packaging system in a first mode;

Figure 5c is a schematic view of the packaging system in a second mode;

Figure 6 is a schematic view of a packaging system; and Figure 7 is a schematic view of a packaging system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figure la shows a schematic exploded view of a package part 1, also referred to as port device herein. In this example, the package part 1 includes an, in this example substantially rigid, element 2. The element 2 has an opening 4, also referred to as content opening. The element 2 further has a first sealing surface 6 surrounding the opening 4. In this example the first sealing surface includes a first O-ring 6. The package part 1 further includes a lid 8. The lid also has a sealing surface 20 for sealing against the first sealing surface 6 of the element 2.

Figure lb shows a schematic view of the package part 1 shown in exploded view in Figure la. In Figure lb the package part is shown in a first mode. In Figure lb the lid 8 abuts against the first sealing surface 6, in this example against the first O-ring 6. The lid 8 is biased in abutment against the first sealing surface 6 by a biasing element 10 such as a second O-ring 10A. The second O-ring 10A is held in place by a retainer 12. It will be appreciated that in this example the biasing element 10 sealingly engages the lid 8 and the retainer 12. It will also be appreciated that the element 2 and the retainer 12 together form a housing of the package part 1. The lid 8 is included in an interior space of the housing. Figure lc shows a schematic view of the package part 1 in a second mode. In Figure lc the lid 8 is offset relative to the first sealing surface 6. In this example the lid is offset in a direction orthogonal to a main surface of the element 2. In this example in the second mode the lid 8 compresses the second O-ring 10A.

Herein the lid is said to be in the second position when the lid abuts against the sealing surface. The lid is said to be in the first position when the lid is offset relative to the seahng surface so as to allow gas to enter or leave the inner space.

Figure 2 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a suction device 14. The suction device 14 includes a first fluid connection 16 for connection to a degassing or gassing device such as a vacuum pump or a source gas, such as inert gas. Hence, the first fluid connection 16 forms part of a gas suction device. In this example, the first fluid connection 16 includes a valve 18 for selectively opening and closing the first fluid connection. In this example, the suction device 14 includes third sealing surface 22 and a fourth sealing surface 24. Here the third sealing surface 22 is a circumferential sealing surface, such as an O-ring. Here the fourth sealing surface 24 is a circumferential sealing surface, such as an O-ring. Here the third sealing surface 22 circumscribes the fourth sealing surface 24. In this example the fourth sealing surface 24 is substantially concentric with the third sealing surface 22. In this example the first fluid connection 16 is in fluid communication with a first area 26 between the third and fourth sealing surfaces 22, 24. In this example, the suction device 14 includes a second fluid connection 28 for connection to a degassing or gassing device such as a vacuum pump or a source gas, such as inert gas. In this example, the second fluid connection 28 includes a valve 30 for selectively opening and closing the second fluid connection. Hence, the second fluid connection 28 forms part of an actuator suction device In this example the second fluid connection 28 is in fluid communication with a second area 32 circumscribed by the fourth sealing surface 24.

In this example the gas suction device and the actuator suction device are integrated into a single suction device 14. It will be appreciated that it is possible that the gas suction device and the actuator suction devices are separate devices.

Figure 3a shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a packaging system 34. This exemplary packaging system 34 includes a package part 1 as described in relation to Figures la, lb and lc and a suction device 14 as described in relation to Figure 2. Further the packaging system 34 includes a package 36. The package 36 includes a packaging film 38, enclosing an inner space 40 for holding a product. The package part 1 is attached to the packaging film 38. The packaging film 38 includes an aperture 42. The package part 1 is sealingly attached to a circumferential contour of the packaging film 38 surrounding the aperture 42. In the example of Figure 3a the package part 1 is attached to an inner side of the packaging film 38. It will be appreciated that it is also possible that the package part 1 is attached to an outer side of the packaging film 38.

In Figure 3a the suction device 14 abuts against the package part 1. It will be appreciated that the suction device 14 may be displaceable relative to the packaging part 1, i.e. the suction device 14 may selectively abut against the package part 1 or be located elsewhere, e.g. in storage during non-use of the suction device 14. In Figure 3a the suction device 14 abuts against the package part 1 such that the first area 26 is in fluid communication with the opening 4 when the lid 8 is in the first position. In this example thereto the retainer 12 includes a first aperture 44, also referred to as gas exchange opening, or a plurality of first apertures 44, for allowing fluid communication between the first area 26 and the opening 4 when the lid 8 is in the first position. Hence, when the lid is in the first position a gas flow path extends between the opening 4 and the first aperture 44. In Figure 3a the suction device 14 abuts against the package part 1 such that the second area 32 is in fluid communication with an upper surface of the lid 8. Thereto in this example the retainer includes a second aperture 46, also referred to as actuator opening. It will be appreciated that in this example the biasing element 10 prevents fluid flow between the second aperture 46 and the opening 4.

The packaging system 34 as described thus far can be operated as follows. A package 36 is provided. The package 36 is provided with the package part 1. The package 36 can be filled with a product, such as nuts, coffee, milk powder or the like. Thereto the package 36 may include a filling opening that is hermetically sealed after filling of the package 36. The lid 8 is in the second position, biased in abutment against the first sealing surface 6 by the biasing element 10 so that the lid hermetically seals against the first sealing surface 6. Hence the gas flow path is closed off. Next, an underpressure is presented to the second fluid connection 28. The second valve 30 is opened or maintained in its open position if already open. Due to the underpressure the pressure at the side of the lid 8 facing the suction device 14 will be lower than the pressure at the side of the lid 8 facing the inner space 40 of the package 36. Therefore, the lid 8 will be lifted off the first sealing surface 6 against the biasing force of the biasing element 10, into the first position, see Figure 3b. It will be appreciated that the second fluid connection 28 and/or the second valve 30 acts as an actuator for moving the lid from the second position to the first position.

With the lid in the first position, an underpressure is presented to the first fluid connection 16. The first valve 18 is opened or maintained in its open position if already open. Since in this state the first fluid connection 16 is in fluid communication with the opening 4, the inner space 40 of the package 36 can be degasssed. It will be appreciated that lifting the lid 8 off the first sealing surface 6 provides a ring-shaped gap between the lid and the first sealing surface 6. A surface area of this gap is determined by a radius of the opening 4 and a height the lid 8 is lifted off the sealing surface 6. It will be appreciated that the surface area can be chosen relatively large so as to allow a large throughput of gas. This allows for fast degassing of the inner space 40.

If desired, the inner space can be filled with a gas, such as an inert gas via the first fluid connection. Hence, the opening 4 allows gas to leave or enter the inner space 40. It will be appreciated that the gas can be provided to the first aperture 44 by the first fluid connection 16 of the suction device 14. Hence it is possible that the suction device 14 presents an overpressure or an underpressure. The suction device can be arranged to present both an overpressure or an underpressure, e.g. selectable by a user. After degassing and optional regassing of the inner space 40, the underpressure at the second fluid connection 28 is released. As a result the hd 8 will be returned to the second position and the package is hermetically sealed. It will be appreciated that at this stage the suction device 14 may be removed from the package part 1.

The packaging system 34 as shown in Figures 3a and 3b can also be used in a further mode of operation. Once the package 36 is degassed or regassed, it may be desirable to measure a pressure inside the package and/or to sample a gas composition inside the package. Thereto the suction device 14 may be abutted against the package as shown in Figure 3a. The second fluid connection may again be used to position the lid in the first position. Effectively, the package 36 is then re-opened. It is then possible to measure the pressure inside the package by measuring the pressure at the opened opening 4, e.g. using a gas pressure measuring device. Preferebly, the first valve 18 is closed during this operation to avoid re-gassing of the package. It is also possible to take a sample of the gas inside the package via the first fluid connection, e.g. using a gas sampling device. After taking of the gas sample the hd can be brought into the second position again to close the package. The gas sample can be analyzed. For instance the composition of the gas sample can be determined. For instance an oxygen content and/or an oxygen partial pressure van be determined.

Figure 4a shows another embodiment of a package part 1 attached to a package 36. In this example the lid 8 is provided with a valve 48. In this example the valve 48 is a one-way valve allowing gas to be drawn through the valve in the direction out of the package, and preventing gas to enter the package through the valve 48.

Figure 4b shows an embodiment of a packaging system 34. The packaging system 34 includes the package part 1 of Figure 4a with a suction device 14 abutted against it. The operation of the packaging system is similar as explained in relation to Figures 3a and 3b. It will be appreciated that providing an underpressure to the second fluid connection 28 would result in drawing gas out of the package 36 via the valve 48. This might prevent proper lifting of the lid 8 off the first sealing surface 6. To avoid this, in this example the suction device 14 is provided with a preventer 50. The preventer 50 prevents the valve 48 from opening while the suction device 14 abuts against the package part 1. For instance, if the valve 48 includes a membrane valve, the preventer 50 can be a finger preventing the membrane from being lifted from its seat. For instance, if the valve 48 includes a ball valve, the preventer 50 can be a finger preventing the ball from being lifted from its seat. In this example the preventer 50 is resilient, e.g. a spring, to allow to prevent the valve 48 from opening both in the first and in the second position.

Figure 4c shows the package part 1 and package 36 of Figure 4a. In Figure 4c a measurement head 52 is sealingly abutted against the package part 1. The measurement head is in fluid communication with the second aperture 46 of the package part 1. In this example, the measurement head 52 is not in fluid communication with the first aperture(s) 44. The measurement head 52 can be brought in fluid communication with an oxygen sensor 54 for determining an oxygen content of the gas in the inner space 40. Thereto the oxygen sensor can draw a small quantity of gas out of the inner space 40 via the valve 48. Alternatively, or additionally, the measurement head 52 can be brought in fluid communication with a pressure determining unit 56. In this example the pressure determining unit 56 includes a pump and a pressure sensor. Preferably the pump has a low throughput capacity. The pump reduces the pressure in the small volume of the measurement head 52. Once the pressure inside the measurement head 52 reaches the pressure inside the inner space, the valve 48 will open. From that moment, t ₀ , onwards the pump attempts to lower the pressure in the large combined volume of the measurement head and the inner space. As this volume is much larger than the volume of the measurement head (typically more than 1000 times larger, such as more than 10,000 times larger) the pressure measured by the pressure sensor from that moment onwards decreases at a much lower rate. In many applications no further pressure decrease may be noticeable from that moment onwards. Figure 4d is a schematic representation of a diagram representing the measured pressure as a function of time. The pressure level measured at the moment t ₀ represents the pressure inside the inner space.

Figure 5a shows a schematic explode view of another embodiment of a packaging system 34. The packaging system 34 includes a package part 1. The package part 1 includes a substantially rigid element 2. The element has an opening 4. The element 2 further has a first sealing surface 6 surrounding the opening 4. The packaging system 34 further includes a lid 8. The lid 8 also has a sealing surface 20 for sealing against the first sealing surface 6 of the element 2. In this example the lid 4 further includes a valve 48. In this example the valve 48 is a one-way valve allowing gas to be drawn through the valve in the direction out of the package, and preventing gas to enter the package through the valve 48. The packaging system 34 further includes a suction device 14. The suction device 14 includes a first fluid connection 16 for connection to a degassing or gassing device such as a vacuum pump or a source gas, such as inert gas. In this example, the first fluid connection 16 includes a valve 18 for selectively opening and closing the first fluid connection. In this example, the suction device 14 includes a third sealing surface 22 and a fourth sealing surface 24. Here the third sealing surface 22 is a circumferential sealing surface, such as an O-ring. Here the fourth sealing surface 24 is a circumferential sealing surface, such as an O-ring. Here the third sealing surface 22 circumscribes the fourth sealing surface 24. In this example the fourth sealing surface 24 is substantially concentric with the third sealing surface 22. In this example the first fluid connection 16 is in fluid communication with a first area 26 between the third and fourth sealing surfaces 22, 24. In this example, the suction device 14 includes a second fluid connection 28 for connection to a degassing or gassing device such as a vacuum pump or a source gas, such as inert gas. In this example, the second fluid connection 28 includes a valve 30 for selectively opening and closing the second fluid connection. In this example the second fluid connection 28 is in fluid communication with a second area 32 circumscribed by the fourth sealing surface 24. In this example, the suction device also includes a preventer 50 for preventing the valve 48 from opening while the suction device 14 abuts against the package part 1.

In Figure 5a the suction device 14 further includes a fifth sealing surface 58. Here the fifth sealing surface 58 is a circumferential sealing surface, such as an O-ring. Here the fifth sealing surface 58 circumscribes the third sealing surface 22. In this example the fifth sealing surface 58 is substantially concentric with the third sealing surface 22. In Figure 5a the suction device 14 further includes a third fluid connection 60 for connection to a pump. In this example, the third fluid connection 60 includes a valve 62 for selectively opening and closing the third fluid connection 60. In this example the third fluid connection 60 is in fluid communication with a third area 64 between the third and fifth sealing surfaces 22, 58.

The packaging system 34 as described with respect to Figure 5a can be operated as follows. The lid 8 is positioned against the fourth sealing surface 24. Next, an underpressure is presented to the second fluid connection 28. The second valve 30 is opened or maintained in its open position if already open. Due to the underpressure the lid 8 will be sucked against the fourth sealing surface 24. In this example, the O/ring forming the fourth sealing surface 24 will be compressed due to the underpressure.

The suction device is abutted against the package part 1, see

Figure 5b. In this example, an underpressure is presented to the third fluid connection 60. The third valve 62 is opened or maintained in its open position if already open. Due to the underpressure the suction device 14 will be sucked against the package part 1. Hence, the suction device 14 remains positioned against the package part 1. As can be seen in Figure 5b, while the underpressure is present at the second fluid connection 28, the lid remains offset relative to the first sealing surface 6 of the package part 1. It will be appreciated that the O-ring 24 is compressed and thereby also functions as biasing element 10, lid 8 being lifted off the first sealing surface 6 against the biasing force of the biasing element 10, into the first position.

With the lid in the first position, an underpressure is presented to the first fluid connection 16. The first valve 18 is opened or maintained in its open position if already open. Since in this state the first fluid connection 16 is in fluid communication with the opening 4, the inner space 40 of the package 36 can be degasssed. If desired, the inner space can be filled with a gas, such as an inert gas via the first fluid connection.

After degassing and optional regassing of the inner space 40, the underpressure at the second fluid connection 28 is released. As a result the lid 8 will be brought into the second position abutting against the first sealing surface 6, due to the biasing force of the biasing element 10, see Figure 5c. In this example, the sealing surface 20 of the lid 8 includes an adhesive. Therefore, when the lid is brought into the second position the lid adheres to the element 2. The package is then hermetically sealed. It will be appreciated that at this stage the suction device 14 may be removed from the package part 1.

If desired a composition of a gas in the package and/or a pressure inside the package may be determined may be determined using a measurement head 52 as describe in relation to Figure 4c.

Figure 6 shows a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment of a packaging system 34. The packaging system 34 includes a package part 1. The package part 1 includes a substantially rigid element 2. The element has an opening 4. The element 2 further has a first sealing surface 6 surrounding the opening 4. The packaging system 34 further includes a lid 8. The lid 8 also has a sealing surface 20 for sealing against the first sealing surface 6 of the element 2. The lid 8 is biased in abutment against the first sealing surface 6 by a biasing element 10. In this example, the biasing element is a resilient membrane 10B. The resilient membrane 10B is held in place by a retainer 12B.

The packaging system 34 further includes a suction device 14. The suction device 14 includes a first fluid connection 16 for connection to a degassing or gassing device such as a vacuum pump or a source gas, such as inert gas. In this example, the first fluid connection 16 includes a valve 18 for selectively opening and closing the first fluid connection. In this example, the suction device 14 includes a third sealing surface 22 and a fourth sealing surface 24. Here the third sealing surface 22 is a circumferential sealing surface, such as an O-ring. Here the fourth sealing surface 24 is a circumferential sealing surface, such as an O-ring. Here the third sealing surface 22 circumscribes the fourth sealing surface 24. In this example the fourth sealing surface 24 is substantially concentric with the third sealing surface 22. In this example the first fluid connection 16 is in fluid communication with a first area 26 between the third and fourth sealing surfaces 22, 24. In this example, the suction device 14 includes a second fluid connection 28 for connection to a degassing or gassing device such as a vacuum pump or a source gas, such as inert gas. In this example, the second fluid connection 28 includes a valve 30 for selectively opening and closing the second fluid connection. In this example the second fluid connection 28 is in fluid communication with a second area 32 circumscribed by the fourth sealing surface 24.

The packaging system 34 as described with reference to Figure 6 can be operated as follows. A package 36 is provided. The package 36 is provided with the package part 1. The package 36 can be filled with a product, such as nuts, coffee, milk powder or the like. Thereto the package 36 may include a filling opening that is hermetically sealed after filling of the package 36. The lid 8 is in the second position, biased in abutment against the first sealing surface 6 by the biasing element 10 so that the lid hermetically seals against the first sealing surface 6. Next, an underpressure is presented to the second fluid connection 28. The second valve 30 is opened or maintained in its open position if already open. Due to the underpressure the pressure at the side of the lid 8 facing the suction device 14 will be lower than the pressure at the side of the lid 8 facing the inner space 40 of the package 36. Therefore, the lid 8 will be lifted off the first sealing surface 6 against the biasing force of the biasing element 10. Here the membrane may be elastically stretched to allow the lid 8 to lift off the first sealing surface 6, into the first position. It will be appreciated that the second fluid connection 28 and/or the second valve 30 acts as an actuator for moving the lid from the second position to the first position.

With the lid in the first position, an underpressure is presented to the first fluid connection 16. The first valve 18 is opened or maintained in its open position if already open. Since in this state the first fluid connection 16 is in fluid communication with the opening 4, the inner space 40 of the package 36 can be degasssed. It will be appreciated that lifting the lid 8 off the first sealing surface 6 provides a ring-shaped gap between the lid and the first sealing surface 6. A surface area of this gap is determined by a radius of the opening 4 and a height the lid 8 is lifted off the sealing surface 6. It will be appreciated that the surface area can be chosen relatively large so as to allow a large throughput of gas. This allows for fast degassing of the inner space 40.

If desired, the inner space can be filled with a gas, such as an inert gas via the first fluid connection. Hence, the opening 4 allows gas to leave or enter the inner space 40. After degassing and optional regassing of the inner space 40, the underpressure at the second fluid connection 28 is released. As a result the lid 8 will be returned to the second position and the package is hermetically sealed. It will be appreciated that at this stage the suction device 14 may be removed from the package part 1.

If desired a composition of a gas in the package and/or a pressure inside the package may be determined may be determined using a measurement head 52 as describe in relation to Figure 4c.

Figure 7 shows a schematic cross sectional view of another embodiment of a packaging system 34. The package part 1 is substantially identical to the package part described in relation to Figures la-lc.

In this example, the suction device includes inner suction device 14A and an outer suction device 14B. The inner suction device 14A includes a first fluid connection 16 for connection to a degassing or gassing device such as a vacuum pump or a source gas, such as inert gas. In this example, the first fluid connection 16 includes a valve 18 for selectively opening and closing the first fluid connection. In this example, the inner suction device 14A includes a third sealing surface 22. The outer suction device 14B encloses the inner suction device 14A. In this example, the first fluid connection 16 includes a flexible section 16A. In this example, the inner suction device 14A is movably positioned within the outer suction device. The outer suction device 14B includes a fourth sealing surface 24. In this example, the outer suction device 14B includes a second fluid connection 28 for connection to a degassing or gassing device such as a vacuum pump or a source gas, such as inert gas. In this example, the second fluid connection 28 includes a valve 30 for selectively opening and closing the second fluid connection.

In this example the inner suction device 14A abuts against the package part 1, or against the package 36 overlying the package part 1. The outer suction device 14B abuts against the package 36 in an area that is not supported by the package part 1. This arrangement proves to be advantageous for packages containing powdered contents. The outer suction device 14B abutting against the package 36 in an area that is free from support by the package part 1 provides the advantage that the powder is not, or at least less, compacted underneath the package part upon evacuating the package 36 through the opening 4 in the package part. Hence, evacuation speed can be increased. Although Fig. 7 shows the package part as described in relation to Figures la-lc, it will be appreciated that, similarly, the suction device including the inner suction device and the outer suction device can be used to advantage in conjunction with the package parts as described in relation to the other figures. It will also be appreciated that the suction device including the inner suction device and the outer suction device can be used to advantage with other package parts, e.g. substantially rigid discs, not necessarily including an actuatable valve.

Herein, the invention is described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made therein, without departing from the essence of the invention. For the purpose of clarity and a concise description features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, alternative embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described in these separate embodiments are also envisaged.

In the examples the suction device sealingly abuts against a sealing surface of the package part. It will be appreciated that it is also possible that the packaging film overlaps the package part to such extent that at the suction device sealingly abuts against the packaging film. In the example of Figures 5a, 5b and 5c the aperture 42 in the packaging film may coincide with the opening 4 in the packaging part 1. The aperture 42 may e.g. have substantially the same size as the opening 4.

The O-rings may have different shore hardnesses. For instance, the O-ring used for the biasing element may have a lower shore hardness than the remaining O-rings. Optionally, a thickness or the O-ring used for the biasing element is larger than a thickness of the remaining O-rings so as to allow ample travel of the lid.

It will be appreciated that the circumferential sealing contour can have any desired shape. The circumferential sealing contour can for instance be circular, elliptic, oval, square, rectangular, triangular, polygonal, irregular, etc.

In the examples the biasing element is an O-ring. Other biasing elements are possible however. The biasing element may e.g. include a bellows. The biasing element may also include a spring.

In the examples the package part 1 is attached to an inner side of the packaging film. It is also possible that the package part is attached to an outer side of the packaging film.

In the examples of 4a-5c the valve 48 is included in the lid 8. It will be appreciated that it is also possible that the valve 48 is located elsewhere in the packaging system, e.g. in the package 36 and/or the packaging film 38. If the valve 48 is positioned remote from the lid, measuring a pressure inside the package via the valve, during evacuation via the opening of the substantially rigid element, can be more accurate. This can be of benefit when a measured pressured inside the package is used for controlling the evacuating of the package.

In the example of Figure 5 a, 5b and 5c the third fluid connection is used for maintaining the suction device positioned against the package part. It will be appreciated that such third fluid connection can also be used in conjunction with the other embodiments.

It will be appreciated that the exterior of the suction device can be exposed to ambient pressure during operation. It is also possible that the exterior of the suction device is exposed to an elevated pressure or a reduced pressure, relative to ambient pressure) during operation.

It will be appreciated that it is also possible that the package part 1 is provided with a filter. The filter can be positioned on the side of the package part facing the interior of the package. The filter may overlay the opening 4. The filter may prevent product included in the package from leaving the package via the package part 1. The filter may e.g. include an open cell foam, cloth, mesh, grid or the like.

However, other modifications, variations, and alternatives are also possible. The specifications, drawings and examples are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative sense rather than in a restrictive sense.

For the purpose of clarity and a concise description features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, it will be appreciated that the scope of the invention may include embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word 'comprising' does not exclude the presence of other features or steps than those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the words 'a' and 'an' shall not be construed as limited to 'only one', but instead are used to mean 'at least one', and do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to an advantage.