Patent Application
20240286782
This patent application relates generally to an improved system, method, and apparatus for creating a sealed enclosure and a modified atmosphere and providing a delivery mechanism for adding functional substances. More specifically, the application relates to creating and maintaining a modified atmosphere within a sealed enclosure, dispersion of specific substances uniformly to protect, preserve, or enhance a perishable product, all the while containing the substances safely during the process.
Goods risk damage from numerous sources such as wind, dirt, heat, insects, etc. during transportation. This risk is even greater for perishable or environmentally sensitive goods, which are also susceptible to decay. Various forms of packaging have been used to minimize damage or decay of such goods. For example, goods are often secured to a pallet to facilitate the transport of such goods and to protect the goods from damage caused by shifting during transport. In order to further protect and preserve the goods during transport, an enclosure may be formed around the goods. Known techniques to create an enclosure include heat shrinking plastic around the goods which have been placed on a pallet, or by placing a plastic bag around the goods on a pallet.
However, existing enclosure systems suffer from disadvantages. For example, providing a bag covering to form the closure is difficult to seal on the open bottom end of the cover. In another example, a plastic base cap may be placed over the pallet. The base cap is sized to cover the pallet, and the goods are stacked on top of the base cap. In this configuration, the bag covering is often larger than the base cap of the pallet, so sealing the bag covering to the base cap requires folding and creasing the bag covering. The folding and creasing prevents a smooth contact between the inside surface of the bag covering and outside edges of the base cap, leaving gaps. In order to form a more airtight seal, the bag must be adhered to the base cap with tape or other adhesive, increasing time and costs.
In another example, when wrapping plastic around palletized goods, completely sealing the enclosure is difficult, especially at the top and bottom of the pallet of stacked goods. The wrapping must curve around the corners and edges of goods, leading to potential gaps or creases or even tears in the wrapping. As previously discussed, the gaps, creases, and tears are undesirable as they provide channels for air to escape or enter the sealed enclosure.
In some examples, a modified atmosphere is introduced into the sealed enclosure by injecting a gas mixture through a needle-tipped hose that is taped to the covering and a desired gas mixture is injected through the hose into the sealed enclosure. The process ends by removal of the needle-tipped hose from the enclosure and re-sealing of the resulting hole in the covering with tape or other adhesives. The steps of manually piercing the enclosure to insert the needle hose and resealing the resulting hole are labor intensive, adding cost and delays to the shipping process. The seal is compromised by piercing and resealing creates an additional risk of leakage around the tape or if the hole is not taped properly, leading to a loss of the modified atmosphere and/or contamination. U.S. Pat. No. 8,256,190, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference, overcomes some of the above difficulties by coupling a valve to the base cap to allow for exchange of gases within the sealed enclosure.
Other critical considerations are the type of material(s) being injected into the pallet, the uniformity of dispersion across and within the pallet contents, and the sensitivity related to environmental or personnel safety if leakage from the sealed enclosure during the injection process should occur. Current manual processes, described above, that use a needle or sharp angular tipped nozzle may overfill the enclosure, which may result in significant leakage of the material being injected. The leakage may occur during injection and/or at the penetration location. The leakage may occur prior to resealing the enclosure with tape. As a result, personnel in close proximity to the pallet process may be exposed to the leaking atmosphere or other substances being injected and/or the efficacy of the injected material's effect on the goods may be reduced due to the leakage of the material being injected.
Therefore, a need exits for an improved method, system, and apparatus of creating an airtight sealed enclosure. Included in this is a need for introducing a modified atmosphere and/or injecting and containing functional substances into the sealed enclosure to achieve uniform dispersion and personnel safety during operation.
According to an embodiment, a system for creating a modified atmosphere for goods may include a sealed enclosure, a delivery assembly for providing controlled delivery of a modified atmosphere and/or functional treatment to the sealed enclosure, and a containment assembly for containing the modified atmosphere and/or functional treatment and for preventing leakage and exposure of the modified atmosphere and/or functional treatment outside of the sealed enclosure. The modified atmosphere and/or functional treatment is dispersed uniformly within the sealed enclosure and is prevented from being exposed outside of the sealed enclosure to operating personnel and to an operating environment.
According to an embodiment, the sealed enclosure is a bag or a wrap sheet surrounding the goods.
According to an embodiment, the wrap sheet includes a top sheet, a bottom sheet, and a side sheet.
According to an embodiment, the delivery assembly is configured to be inserted through the wrap sheet and the containment assembly is configured to be outside of the wrap sheet.
According to an embodiment, the delivery assembly includes a center passage of a nozzle for delivering the modified atmosphere and/or functional treatment and the containment assembly includes a perimeter passage of the nozzle for vacuuming and venting a substance from within the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the containment assembly includes a pad configured to apply pressure to the sealed enclosure to maintain a seal of the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the pad includes a connection configured to move the pad between an engaged position in contact with a side surface of the sealed enclosure and a disengaged position out of contact with the side surface of the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the system further comprises a mechanism configured to hold the pad in the disengaged position.
According to an embodiment, a method to create a sealed enclosure and a modified atmosphere may include providing a pallet having one or more items thereon, applying a bottom sheet and a top sheet to the pallet, sealing the pallet with a side sheet to create a sealed enclosure, sealing the pallet including wrapping the pallet to seal the one or more items on the pallet and wrapping all edges and corners of the one or more items, positioning one or more nozzles within the sealed enclosure, injecting a modified atmosphere or functional substance into the sealed enclosure with the one or more nozzles, releasing the one or more nozzles from the sealed enclosure, and maintaining a seal of the sealed enclosure during releasing the one or more nozzles from the sealed enclosure. Sealing the pallet occurs simultaneously with injecting the modified atmosphere or functional substance, and maintaining the seal includes the sealed enclosure remaining sealed without leakage of the modified atmosphere or functional substance from the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the steps are performed sequentially in order.
According to an embodiment, maintaining the seal includes applying pressure to the sealed enclosure with one or more pads.
According to an embodiment, the method further comprises applying tape with a tape sealer after releasing the one or more nozzles from the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, positioning the one or more nozzles within the sealed enclosure includes inserting the one or more nozzles between the bottom sheet and the side sheet, between the top sheet and the side sheet, or between both the bottom sheet and the side sheet and the top sheet and the side sheet.
According to an embodiment, positioning the one or more nozzles within the sealed enclosure includes piercing the bottom sheet, the top sheet, the side sheet, or combinations thereof, with the one or more nozzles.
According to an embodiment, the one or more nozzles are inserted through a pad, the pad configured to maintain the seal of the sealed enclosure during positioning, injecting, and releasing of the one or more nozzles.
According to an embodiment, a method for controlled containment of a modified atmosphere within a sealed enclosure of a pallet may include positioning one or more removable nozzles within the sealed enclosure at the time of creating the sealed enclosure, controlling of vacuuming and venting of the modified atmosphere, controlling of injecting of the modified atmosphere, and providing a uniform distribution of the modified atmosphere within the sealed enclosure through the controlling of the vacuuming and venting and through the controlling of the injecting. Controlling vacuuming and venting and controlling injecting are controlled based on feedback obtained from the modified atmosphere and/or based on a program.
According to an embodiment, a method for processing pallets using a sealed bag over the pallet placing a pad, collar with aspirator, and/or self-sealing sleeve against the sealed bag, moving a multipurpose nozzle through the pad, the collar with aspirator, or the self-sealing sleeve, piercing the sealed bag with the multipurpose nozzle, extending the multipurpose nozzle into the sealed bag, injecting, with the multipurpose nozzle, gasses and/or substances into the sealed bag, and controlling an internal pressure of the sealed bag through vacuuming and venting through the multipurpose nozzle.
According to an embodiment, the method is performed by programming a computer to sequentially perform the steps and wherein the programming allows for safely injecting sensitive materials into the sealed bag.
According to an embodiment, controlling the internal pressure further comprises adjusting the internal pressure to have a slight negative pressure to prevent leakage.
According to an embodiment, controlling the internal pressure further comprises adjusting the internal pressure to a neutral pressure or slight positive pressure, and further comprising withdrawing the multipurpose nozzle from the sealed bag, closing the self-sealing sleeve during withdrawing the multipurpose nozzle from the sealed bag, removing the pad, the collar with aspirator, and/or the self-sealing sleeve, and covering a pierced location formed by the piercing with tape or patch immediately after the pad, the collar with aspirator, and/or the self-sealing sleeve is removed.
According to an embodiment, the multipurpose nozzle includes a center passage or portion for injecting and a perimeter passage or portion for vacuuming and venting.
According to an embodiment, an apparatus for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure may include a stabilizing support bar, at least one nozzle attached to the stabilizing support bar at an angle, the at least one nozzle being configured to connect to a gas source, wherein the stabilizing support bar is configured for being placed on or adjacent to a package to be enclosed in the sealed enclosure, and one or more containment devices, pads, and/or aspirating collars attached to the at least one nozzle and configured to prevent leaking of the modified atmosphere from the sealed enclosure. The at least one nozzle is configured to inject gas into the sealed enclosure through the nozzle, and, as the at least one nozzle slides out of a wrapping in which the at least one nozzle is inserted, the one or more containment devices, pads, and/or aspirating collars allows no contents of the sealed enclosure to leak into an operating environment.
According to an embodiment, the package comprises stacked goods on a pallet, a slip-sheet, in a bin, or other container.
According to an embodiment, the nozzle is connected to a vacuum, a controlled vent source, a gas, a substance treatment source, or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the stabilizing support bar has a package facing side for positioning adjacent a first package side, and the nozzle, the at least one nozzle having a nozzle package facing side for positioning adjacent a second package side, different from the first package side. The angle formed between the nozzle and the stabilizing support bar corresponds with a package angle, whereby the stabilizer bar is adjacent the first package side and the at least one nozzle is adjacent the second package side, the at least one nozzle is positioned to be a fluid conduit between the vacuum, controlled vent, gas, and/or substance treatment source and an interior of the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, an apparatus for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure may include a wrapping around a package, the wrapping creating a sealed enclosure around the package, a vacuum, controlled vent, and/or gas source, one or more nozzles connected to the vacuum, controlled vent, and/or gas source, the one or more nozzles placed within the sealed enclosure between the package and the wrapping, and a containment device, pad, and/or an aspirating cover. The one or more nozzles are covered outside the wrapping by the containment device, pad and/or an aspirating cover such that, as the one or more nozzles inject gas and/or functional ingredients into the sealed enclosure and are then removed, the containment device, pad, and/or aspirating cover prevent or capture any leaking gas materials.
According to an embodiment, a vacuum is piped through an arm to the one or more nozzles, the one or more nozzles configured as a multipurpose nozzle to evacuate air and otherwise control the internal pressure and to inject the modified atmosphere or compressed air, and wherein one or more substances are injected through one or more channels, tubes, ports, turbos in the nozzle to direct, speed, or improve disbursement into the sealed enclosure enabling improved regulated substance treatments throughout the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the one or more nozzles includes multiple nozzles used in combination to evacuate air and otherwise control the internal pressure and to inject the modified atmosphere or compressed air, and wherein one or more substances are injected through one or more channels, tubes, ports, turbos in the nozzles to direct, speed, or improve disbursement into the sealed enclosure enabling improved regulated substance treatments throughout the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the apparatus may further comprise applying a top sheet, a bottom sheet, and a wrap sheet to the package, wherein the top sheet, the bottom sheet, and the wrap sheet form the sealed enclosure, and wherein the vacuum and/or the modified atmosphere is performed simultaneously with wrapping of and/or sealing of the wrap sheet.
According to an embodiment, a method for creating a modified atmosphere within a sealed enclosure, the method comprising programming controlled vacuuming and/or controlled venting to create and maintain a negative pressure or positive to negative pressure gradient within the sealed enclosure to enable industrial gas or air in possible combination with functional substances to enter and disperse uniformly within the sealed enclosure but preventing the industrial gas or air in possible combination with functional substances from leaking from the sealed enclosure due to over-pressurization.
According to an embodiment, a method for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure may include placing a bottom sheet on a bottom surface of a package on a pallet, the package to be enclosed inside the sealed enclosure, placing a top sheet on a top surface of the package, placing a manifold on the top sheet, the manifold having a portion extending along a side surface of the package, applying a side sheet by rotating the package along a longitudinal axis of the package, the side sheet covering the portion of the manifold with nozzle extending along the side surface of the package, the bottom sheet, the top sheet, and the side sheet forming the sealed enclosure, covering the site of the nozzle located within the wrap with a containment device, pad, covering, or aspirating cover, injecting at least one gas into the sealed enclosure through the manifold, and removing the nozzle and manifold. The containment device, pad, covering, or aspirating cover are configured to prevent leaking of the at least one gas from the sealed enclosure during removal of the nozzle and manifold.
According to an embodiment, the functional sheet comprises ingredients that i) neutralize, absorb, or block ethylene, ii) neutralize or absorb malodors, iii) neutralize or absorb carbon dioxide, iv) absorb moisture, v) sanitize, vi) add aroma, or vii) any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the at least one gas includes compressed, filtered, dry, or humidified air, industrial gas, ozone, air or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the industrial gas is nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, an industrial gas that has been ionized or treated by plasma or corona discharge, or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the method may include functional substances mixed into the at least one gas, the functional substances including one or more forms of: chlorine dioxide, nitrous oxide, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, ozone, or any sanitizer, ionized air, ionized industrial gas, ionized sanitizer, ionized water and/or pH adjusted water or pH adjusted sanitizer, limonene, lemon oil, orange oil, grapefruit oil, rosemary oil, thyme oil, sunflower oil, other fruit-derived oils, tea tree oil, cinnamon oil, eucalyptus oil, potassium oleate, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), ascorbic acid, citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, calcium phosphate, linear terpenes, cyclic terpenes, alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ketones, lactones, thiols, lipase, rose oil, rose essence, and fruit essence, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, flavor compounds, color compounds, essence, essential oil, sugar, THC or THC compounds, CBD or CBD compounds, probiotics, phages, enzymes, pharmaceutical compounds, biological compounds, or ripening management or conditioning agents such as 1-Methylcyclopropene, ethylene or ethephon.
According to an embodiment, the method may include incorporating functional substances into or on a functional sheet, the top sheet, the bottom sheet, and/or the side sheet, wherein the functional substances include one or more of: a sanitizer, a preservative, an antifungal, an essential oil, a reducing agent, an aroma, cyclodextrins, ethylene reducing compound, ethylene blocking compound, ethylene scavenging compound, and a ripening or conditioning agent.
According to an embodiment, the method may include applying a vacuum or a controlled vent to the sealed enclosure through the manifold before injecting the at least one gas into the sealed enclosure, whereby the pressure within the sealed enclosure is by design contained and/or prevented from being positive in order to prevent leakage of the during the injection process.
According to an embodiment, the nozzle extends inside the sealed enclosure between the package and the top sheet, side sheet, and bottom sheet, and wherein the at least one gas is injected through the portion of the manifold extending along the side surface of the package.
According to an embodiment, the top sheet, the bottom sheet, side sheet, or any combination thereof comprises a predetermined oxygen transmission rate or a predetermined carbon dioxide transmission rate or a predetermined substance transmission rate.
According to an embodiment, the injecting of the at least one gas creates the modified atmosphere.
According to an embodiment, a system for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure may include an injection system having one or more nozzles, the injection system configured to enable and facilitate mixing of air, industrial gasses, and/or substances from multiple sources. The one or more nozzles include one or more internal channels, the one or more internal channels configured to channel the air, industrial gasses, and/or substances from multiple sources to a point near a tip of the nozzle to improve distribution or a desired pattern of distribution. The one or more nozzles are configured for improved blending and distribution. The one or more nozzles include the use of a vacuum source or controlled venting to facilitate faster uniform distribution and prevent over-pressuring the sealed enclosure. The one or more nozzles include a pressure pump, mixing chamber, high pressure air, industrial gas or volatized liquid, a high pressure surge chamber, a turbo boost, a turbo charger, or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the one or more internal channels includes a first channel configured to channel the air, industrial gasses, and/or substances from multiple sources to the point near the tip of the nozzle and a second channel configured to channel the use of the vacuum source or controlled venting.
According to an embodiment, the first channel is a central channel and the second channel is a perimeter channel.
According to an embodiment, the system may include an apparatus for wrapping a pallet to create the sealed enclosure, wherein the apparatus for wrapping and the injection system are contained within a chamber or partially enclosed area with openings for the pallet to enter and leave, whereby the chamber or partially enclosed area is maintained under slight negative pressure with continuous or sequential venting and filtering or scrubbing to eliminate or neutralize any leakage of harmful materials to the environment or human workspace.
The foregoing and other features and advantages will be apparent from the following, more particular, description of various exemplary embodiments, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements.
FIGS. TOA to 10C are perspective views of an automated top sheet dispenser, according to an embodiment.
Various embodiments of the invention are discussed in detail below. While specific embodiments are discussed, this is done for illustration purposes only. A person skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations may be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
In accordance with the principles of the disclosure, a method, system, and apparatus for wrapping and sealing a pallet of stacked goods to create a sealed enclosure around the stacked goods on the pallet is described. The sealed enclosure may be provided around the stacked goods themselves, without the pallet or around the stacked goods in combination with the pallet. A method, system, and apparatus for improved vacuuming or controlled venting, injection of treatments, for sealing, and gassing to create and maintain a modified atmosphere within the sealed enclosure of the pallet of stacked goods is described. A pallet of stacked goods is wrapped with a wrap sheet. A sealed enclosure is created by the wrap sheet or side sheet between an interior of the wrap sheet and an exterior or perimeter of the stacked goods. Within the sealed enclosure, a passive or active modified environment may be provided. A passive modified atmosphere may form as a result of the respiration of the perishable product which causes consumption of oxygen and production of carbon dioxide. The preferred active modified environment may be provided by removing, venting, or vacuuming in a controlled manner the air from the sealed enclosure or by injecting a gas and/or treatment into the sealed enclosure.
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The system 10 may include a wrapping and sealing system 14 and a modified environment system 16. The wrapping and sealing system 14 may include a top sheet dispenser 18, a bottom sheet dispenser 20, and a pallet wrapper 22. The modified environment system 16 may include a gas injection system 24, a gas/substance treatment and sanitizer source 26, a MAP and sanitizer and treatment controller 28, and an air compressor 30. The wrapping and sealing system 14 and the modified environment system 16 may be one system or multiple systems functionally coupled together. The system 10 may include system controls 32 to control the wrapping and sealing system 14, the modified environment system 16, and/or both the wrapping and sealing system 14 and the modified environment system 16.
The system 10 may include a driven or autonomous vehicle, such as a forklift 34, for moving one or more pallets 13 to the first end 10a of the system 10. The pallet 13a at the first end 10a may be placed on the conveyor 12 and moved in the direction of arrow A through the wrapping and sealing system 14 and the modified environment system 16 to the second end 10b where the pallet 13b may be retrieved by a vehicle, such as forklift 34.
Referring to
Although the top sheet dispenser 18 is illustrated as preceding the bottom sheet dispenser 20, the arrangement may be reversed such that the bottom sheet dispenser precedes the top sheet dispenser, in an example, the top sheet dispenser 18 and the bottom sheet dispenser 20 may be arranged such that the top sheet and bottom sheet are dispensed simultaneously. In an example, the top sheet dispenser 18 and the bottom sheet dispenser 20 may be a single component such that the top sheet and bottom sheet are dispensed simultaneously.
The top sheet dispenser 18 may dispense a top sheet that may be a flat piece of material that completely covers the top of the stacked goods on the pallet, and the ends of top sheet may overhang the sides of the stacked goods. The bottom sheet dispenser 20 may dispense a bottom sheet that may be a flat piece of material that completely covers the bottom of stacked goods and/or pallet and the ends of bottom sheet may slightly cover the sides of the stacked goods. The shape of top sheet and bottom sheet is not limited. Top sheet and bottom sheet may be shaped to create a top and bottom cap and/or folded to contour the shape of stacked goods to minimize gaps. Top sheet and bottom sheet may be taped or adhered to stacked goods. Alternatively, top sheet and bottom sheet may be self-adhered to the stacked goods and/or adhered to the pallet wrap.
The system 10 may include loading conveyors with backstop guide, pallet loading alignment, and forklift floor stops. A windshield blocker may be provided to prevent air draft from cooling tunnels lifting the top sheet during dispensing of the top sheet by the top sheet dispenser. The conveyors may include adjustable deflector guides to help straighten misaligned pallets during operation. The system may include turntable conveyors. The conveyors may include 90-degree transfer conveyors with pop-up table chain driven capabilities. The system may include electrical quick disconnects at main electrical panels and junction boxes to allow for easy deconstruction, moving, and installation of the system.
The top sheet dispenser 18 may include a tape roll dispenser to secure plastic sheets on top of a pallet load. The top sheet dispenser may include brushes and a wiper assembly (with or without rollers) and additional side brushes at the ends to wipe corners of the sheet. The top sheet dispenser may include safety sensors in the frame to reduce damage to pallet load and obstructions in the pathway during lowering sequences.
The bottom sheet dispenser 20 may include removable scissor lift conveyors assembly. The bottom sheet dispenser may include scissor lift pallet height options for CHEP or Wood pallets (manual and automated). The bottom sheet dispenser may include hydraulic operated squeeze plates for all sides. The bottom sheet dispenser may include interlocking squeeze plates. The bottom sheet dispenser may include plates with plunger trigger to sense load has been squeezed. The bottom sheet dispenser may include squeeze plates with rubber textured mats and spikes threaded into bottom of plates. The bottom sheet dispenser may include brushes and a wiper assembly mounted to side entrance & exit paddle squeeze plates. The bottom sheet dispenser may include squeeze paddles with adjustable plate angle. The bottom sheet dispenser may include accumulators (to keep squeeze plates pressurized when hydraulic pump is off). The bottom sheet dispenser may include air curtains with nozzles. The bottom sheet dispenser may include gripper safety laser sensors added to reduce damages to drop boxes & any other obstructions. The bottom sheet dispenser may include gripper chain adjuster assembly upgraded to make it easier to service.
The pallet wrapper 22 may include upper and upper side nozzles air curtains blows top sheet flaps down for inclusion during wrap cycle. The pallet wrapper may include lower nozzle(s) air curtains that blows the bottom sheet flaps up for inclusion during the wrap cycle. The pallet wrapper may include film tail air knife blows stretch wrap film tails towards pallet load when released from film clamps. The pallet wrapper may include film clamps assembly with 180 degree & 90-degree cylinders. The pallet wrapper may include an upper film clamp that has a manual air release valve with a knob to open the clamp during film replacement. The pallet wrapper may include heat cutters and brushes, or wipers combined to one assembly. The pallet wrapper may include carriage heads improvements: safety door latches and switches, dancer bar torsion spring, & film holder. The pallet wrapper may include pre-stretch rollers: fabricated in different size diameter molds to re-cast rubber on pre-stretch rollers that may be tested to specifications, may use a durometer, casting methods, vulcanization, and textures for the rubber. The pallet wrapper may include pre-stretch rollers with replaceable shaft when shaft wears or bend. The pallet wrapper may include a manifold with nozzles or snorkels for gas injection and vacuum with sensing lines. The pallet wrapper may include a commutator upgraded and with electrical quick disconnects. The pallet wrapper may include settings updated to analog voltage outputs for film force-to-load and wrapper up/down speed (initial system designs used potentiometers with adjustment knobs). The pallet wrapper may include electrostatic bars or film warming devices for enhancing the stretch film characteristics during the wrapper cycle. The pallet wrapper may include side pressure roller assembly to better seal film to bottom sheet as pallet load advances out of wrapper section.
The modified environment system 16 may include industrial gas (e.g., CO2 & N2) regulators stands assembly for industrial gas (e.g., CO2) racks with cylinders & other industrial gas storage vessels or tanks (e.g., N2 Dewar). The modified environment system may include a bulk CO2 tank installed at the machine sites or CO2 racks with cylinders. The modified environment system may include industrial gas, treatment and substance modules or Consoles: a custom programmed auto machine gas, treatment, and substance controller. The modified environment system may include Single Hose Gas Consoles (SHGC): custom programmed manual gas, substance, & treatment setup. The modified environment system may include a rotary screw air compressor upgraded to keep up with system usage and quieter to be next to auto machine as compared to a reciprocating air compressor.
The system 10 may include a labeler to apply or wipe-on labels. The system may include continuous PLC & touchscreen programs updated improvements to logics, interface, safeties, alarms, indicators, & status. The system may include communication and access to Systems with Ethernet or Wi-Fi options. The system may be a modular system design for portability and quick setup/movement of systems. The modular system may allow for re-arrangement of the components therein. The system may include pressure foam roller systems for enhanced sealing of pallet wrap enclosures (single roller or multi-roller turn table design and/or a dual or multi-roller pass through design). The system may include mechanical and robotic pressure pad(s) for improved gas & nozzle containment during injection of modified atmosphere gasses and functional treatments into the seal enclosures. The system may include dual injection nozzles with pads, rollers, sealing sleeves, or collars with aspirator and then tape sealing for containment of gasses and substances during and after injection. The dual nozzle will be able to create and maintain a slight negative pressure during injection and importantly just before the nozzle is removed. If a bag enclosure is used, then the taper seals the injection point.
The system may include color sensor, or other appropriate sensors, cameras, or devices for pallet height adjustment on the top or bottom sheet dispenser. The system may include the combination of, or separation of, various equipment components and devices to accommodate specific design requirements such as combining the top sheet dispenser and bottom sheet dispenser to reduce the space required within a cold room facility.
The functional sheet may be the top sheet, bottom sheet, wrap sheet, or any combination thereof treated with a functional substance or functional ingredient. The functional sheet may be an additional sheet placed within the sealed enclosure (e.g., captured within the enclosure), between packages stacked on the pallet, below packages stacked on the pallet, above packages stacked on the pallet, or any combination thereof, treated with a functional substance. One or more functional sheets may be provided. Where a plurality of functional sheets are provided, the functional sheets may be provided as any combination top sheet, bottom sheet, wrap sheet, or additional sheet, as described herein. An exemplary functional sheet may be a sheet treated with hydrated lime to absorb carbon dioxide. An exemplary functional sheet may be a sheet treated with potassium manganate to absorb ethylene. Any of the functional substances described herein may be applied to a sheet to result in a functional sheet.
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In step 500, a pallet may be placed on a conveyor. The pallet may be placed on the conveyor by a forklift or other moving means within a warehouse. In step 502, the conveyor may move the pallet to a top sheet dispenser. A sensor, in step 504, may detect whether the pallet is in the proper position with respect to the top sheet dispenser. If the sensor detects the pallet is in the proper position, the top sheet dispenser may commence with placing a top sheet on the stacked goods on the pallet. In step 506, a gripper may extend to the top sheet. At step 507, the gripper may close onto the plastic and in step 508, the sheet holder may open. The gripper may retract to pull the sheet with tape over the pallet (step 510). In step 512, the gripper may stop two-thirds of the way across the top of the pallet and in step 514, the sheet holder may close. The lower carriage may move to the top of the pallet and stop (step 516) and a knife may cut the sheet and tape and return to a home location (step 518). In step 520, the gripper may retract to pull the sheet with tape over the top of the pallet. In step 522, the gripper may open to release the sheet with the tape. In step 524, the gripper may retract to a home location. In step 526, the lower carriage may wipe the sheet with tape down with brushes. In step 528, the brushes may retract down to wipe the sheet. In step 530, the carriage may rise to a home location and in step 532, the brushes may extend to a home location. In step 534 the gripper may extend to the sheet for a next top sheet cycle and in step 536, the pallet with top sheet in place on the top of the stacked goods may be ready to exit the top sheet dispenser.
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In steps 700 through 754, a pallet located in the bottom sheet dispenser receives a bottom sheet between the pallet/base and the stacked goods. In step 700, a conveyor may move a pallet to the bottom sheet dispenser. A sensor, in step 702, may detect whether the pallet is in the proper position with respect to the bottom sheet dispenser. If the sensor detects the pallet is in the proper position, the bottom sheet dispenser may commence with placing a bottom sheet on the pallet. In step 704, a determination is made as to the type of pallet/base provided. If the pallet is a Chep pallet (e.g., a known, conventional wood pallet), a scissor lift may lower in step 706a. If, however, the pallet is not a Chep pallet, the scissor lift remains in the original position in step 706b. In step 708, a side arm safety sensor determines if there is a clear path between the stacked goods and a pallet squeezer. When the safety sensor determines a clear path is present, a side arm lowers at step 710 and four squeeze plates extend at step 712. The squeeze plates extend until contact with the stacked goods on the pallet (step 714) at which time, the plates squeeze the stacked goods on the pallet per a timer or regulated pressure (step 716). At step 718, the scissor lift lowers the pallet/base and at step 720, the gripper safety sensor ensures a clear path. At step 722, the grippers may extend and open just before full extension. At step 724, the gripper may close onto the plastic bottom sheet and at step 726, the sheet holder may open. In step 728, the gripper may retract to pull the sheet with tape edges over the pallet and at step 730, the gripper may stop about two-thirds of the way across the pallet. In step 732, the sheet holder closes. In step 734, a cutter or knife may cut the sheet and tape and then return to a home location. In step 736, a gripper may extend to pull the sheet over the pallet. At step 738, a scissor lift may be raised until pallet/base is to the stacked goods. At step 740, the gripper may release the plastic and retract to a home location (step 742). At step 744, the four squeeze plates may retract, no longer squeezing the stacked goods on top of the bottom sheet on the pallet. At step 746, the scissor lift may raise to the top position. At step 748, air may be supplied to a nozzle manifold or air curtains with nozzles to blow the sheet side flaps up along the sides of the stacked goods on the pallet. At step 750, a side arm brush(es) may extend upward and a side arm may be lifted to wipe up and adhere the sheet to the sides of the stacked goods with the brushes and then return home (step 752). At step 754, the pallet may be ready to exit the bottom sheet dispenser.
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With continued reference to
Referring to
After the pallet/base 903 and stacked goods 901 receive a top sheet 905 and bottom sheet 907, the pallet 903 is then either manually or automatically loaded onto turntable 914. Nozzle fingers 910 are initially positioned towards the edge of turntable 914. Nozzle fingers 910 are on a slider which allows them to slide towards and away from the edge of turntable 914. When stacked goods 901 are placed on the turntable, nozzle fingers 910 may be moved inwardly and/or outwardly to abut the sides of stacked goods 901. Nozzle fingers 910 may be placed against the edge of bottom sheet 907. Air may be blasted or blown upward from turntable 914 to keep the bottom sheet 907 in place while nozzle fingers 910 are slid against the edges of bottom sheet 907 such that bottom sheet 907 is tucked between the sides of stacked goods 901 and nozzle fingers 910. Wrap 922 may be, for example, a roll of film that is dispensed from film carriage or wrap dispenser 911 at the bottom of stacked goods 901. The turntable 914 may spin via a motor 926 such that stacked goods 901 are wrapped in a circular fashion with wrap 922. Wrap 922 may be placed on top of nozzle fingers 910 such that nozzle fingers 910 are held between wrap 922 and bottom sheet 907. Wrap dispenser 911 may be moved upward by pulley 915 while wrapping such that stacked goods 901 are wrapped from bottom to top. In this manner, top sheet 905, wrap 922, and bottom sheet 907 may form an airtight enclosure around stacked goods 901. Alternatively, stacked goods 901 may be wrapped from the top down or via wrap material sufficient in size to cover the stacked goods without the need for the roll of wrap material to move up and down.
According to embodiments, gas lines and/or controlled venting or vacuum lines may be plumbed inside spindle 925 to junction 916. Piping continues from junction 916 to nozzle fingers 910. Junction 916 is a rotating union that may spin with turntable 914. In this manner, nozzle fingers 910 may vacuum and/or vent air from inside of the sealed enclosure and/or inject a modified atmosphere into the sealed enclosure formed by bottom sheet 907, wrap 922 and top sheet 905. The controlled venting and/or vacuum and/or modified atmosphere may be performed simultaneously with wrapping while the turntable is rotating, or after wrapping. According to embodiments, nozzle fingers 910 may be released from between wrap 922 and bottom sheet 907 by a mechanism to push them into the turntable in a recessed position. Nozzle fingers 910 may be moved in an outward direction towards the edge of the turntable to accommodate the next pallet 903 of stacked goods 901.
According to embodiments, controlled venting and/or vacuum/gas piping 1016 connects controlled venting/vacuum/gas/treatment substance source modules and controls 1032 to arm 1036. Vacuum/venting/gas/substance treatments may be piped through arm 1036 to nozzle fingers 1010. Junction 1034 may be a rotating union such that platen 1030 and nozzle fingers 1010 rotate with turntable 1014. Junction 1034 may be a rotating union that spins with turntable 1014. In this manner, nozzle fingers 1010 may vent and/or vacuum air from inside of the sealed enclosure and/or inject a modified atmosphere and/or substance treatments into the sealed enclosure formed by bottom sheet 1006, wrap 1022 and top sheet 1004. The vacuum and/or modified atmosphere and/or treatments may be performed simultaneously with wrapping while the turntable is rotating, or after wrapping. In addition the embodiment may utilize pads or devices to facilitate the injection, containment, and uniform distribution of the atmosphere and/or treatments. According to embodiments, platen 1030 may be raised using mechanism 1024 to release nozzle fingers 1010 from between wrap 1022 and top sheet 1004. Nozzle fingers 1010 may also be moved further away from each other to accommodate the next pallet 1002 of stacked goods 1000.
After goods have been loaded onto the pallet and the pallet is sealed by some method such as, for example, heat shrink wrapping, adhesive film wrapping, or bagging as described above, the goods may be further protected and preserved by providing a modified atmosphere inside the enclosure surrounding the goods (e.g. the space between the wrapping and the goods). Accordingly, the pallet of goods may be sealed and treated or treated as it is being sealed. The stacked products on the pallet may be packaged in a manner to benefit from the treatment or atmosphere established within the enclosure surrounding the goods. For example, nitrogen or carbon dioxide may be injected within the enclosure in order to deter deterioration of the goods, for example, by the growth of organisms that may contribute to the natural deterioration of produce. Other mixtures of gases may help maintain the goods if held at an appropriate temperature and humidity. Filtered, dry, or humidified air and/or compressed air may also be used as a carrier for substances that may provide beneficial results. To improve the effect of the modified atmosphere, air may first be vacuumed from the enclosure.
As mentioned, once wrapped, with a wrapping system, such as wrapping and sealing system 14, a modified environment may be provided to the sealed and enclosed space between the wrap sheet and the stacked goods. The modified environment may be provided with a modified environment system that may include a nozzle. In exemplary embodiments, the modified environment system may be located, part of, or placed in the same location as the pallet wrapper. In this manner, the modified environment may be provided simultaneously or directly after wrapping of the pallet with the wrap sheet and/or in conjunction with the sealing process.
With reference to
The one or more tape sealing devices with one or more leading and/or following pressure rollers encircle the pallet of goods until the pallet reaches the point over the injection nozzle and the injection process is completed, the taping and roller sealing device then advances as the nozzles and pads, rollers, or collar are withdrawn to complete the pallet sealing process of
Referring to
The holes in the nozzle may be positioned to help facilitate, direct the flow, and improve the effectiveness of a vacuum and/or distribution of a gas injection, and/or a treatment process. Holes, openings, or vents on the nozzle are usually on the top or at the tip of the nozzle, on the packaging facing side and/or on the sides of the nozzle to improve effectiveness. (These comments may apply to all nozzles).
With respect to
Referring to
The sensor tubes 1092 may be used to collect samples within a sealed enclosure. The collected samples may include but, are not limited to, pressure (negative or positive), atmospheric levels of gas O2, CO2, etc., product specific conditions or traits, the levels of microorganisms, specific treatment and substance levels, as well as humidity or other environmental parameters, etc., or any combination thereof. The sensor tubes 1092 may provide the samples to one or more sensors and/or collection devices. This may allow the sensors and/or collection devices to monitor measurement capabilities within a module on the controller. Information from the samples may provide feedback to the controller for control of the system. For example, information from the samples may be collected, analyzed, recorded, and/or utilized immediately to control the system, process, and apparatus (e.g., including control of the modified atmosphere, control of the sealing, control of venting, control of containment, etc., or combinations thereof). The information may also be stored for later use by the system. This may involve manual analysis, learning, and decision making to improve the system, methods, and apparatus or machine learning or artificial intelligence (AI) to provide continuous improvement and outcomes. The sensor tubes 1092 may be include with any of the systems, nozzles, or apparatus described herein. For example, the sensor tubes 1092 may be included with systems that include controlled venting/vacuum. The sensor tubes 1092 may include sensor lines and/or sensor tubes. The sensor tubes 1092 may provide feedback to a controller to allow for control of the creation of the modified environment within the sealed enclosure. Other sensors located in, around, or as a part of the system may be included to provide feedback to the controller.
The nozzle 1090 may be on an operator side of the wrap station. For each wrap station, at least one blower-injection nozzle 1070 and one vacuum nozzle 1090 or a combination injection-blower nozzle and venting/vacuum nozzle may be needed. The nozzle 1080 may be a wrapper gas injection snorkel without sensing lines. The nozzle 1090 may be a venting-vacuum snorkel with sensing lines. The sensor lines or tubes 1092 within the nozzle (snorkel) are used to collect samples within the enclosure, this may include but is not limited to: pressure (negative or positive), atmospheric levels of gas O2, CO2, etc., product specific conditions or traits, the levels of spoilage, decay, pathogens, or microorganisms, specific treatment and substance levels, as well as humidity or other environmental parameters. The sample lines or tubes feed sensors and together along with other sensors and system collection devices with monitoring measurement capabilities provide data to one or more modules on the controller. The information is collected, analyzed, recorded and/or utilized immediately to control the process and/or stored for later use by the system. This may entail manual analysis, learning, and decision making to improve the system, methods, and apparatus or higher level systems management programming and processing which may include machine learning or artificial intelligence (AI) to provide continuous improvement and outcomes. The nozzles 1070 and 1090 may be attached to pneumatic cylinders that travel up, down, inward, and outward with respect to the wrapped pallet to achieve the desired alignment with the package to create the modified atmosphere.
Referring to
The system may include a manifold 1125. The manifold 1125 may include piping or hose(s) 1116, coupler(s) 1114, nozzle finger(s) 1110, and stabilizing support bar(s) 1112. As shown in
Top sheet 1104 may overhang the sides of stacked goods 1100 such that nozzle finger 1110 may be placed against top sheet 1104. As shown in
According to embodiments, stabilizing support bar 1112 may be shaped to conform to an irregularly shaped stacked goods 1100. Stabilizing support bar may be dimensioned and weighted to hold nozzle 1108 in place while stacked goods 1100 are wrapped. Nozzle 1108 may connect to hose 1116 through coupler 1114 and fitting 1120 to create an airtight quick connect seal. Coupler 1114 may be, for example, a camlock fitting with a gasket. Conventional cam lock fittings may be used, or other quick connections known in the art. Fitting 1120 allows for quick disconnect (
As shown in
Wrap 1122 may cover nozzle finger 1110 such that nozzle finger 1110 may be placed between wrap 1122 and the overhanging section of top sheet 1104. Air may be vented-vacuumed from inside the sealed enclosure (e.g., the space between the wrap 1122 and the stacked goods 1100) through the holes on nozzle finger 1110 and/or gas as well as substance treatments may be injected inside the sealed enclosure (e.g., the space between the wrap 1122 and the stacked goods 1100). The removal of air and/or the injection of gas may create a modified atmosphere within the sealed enclosure. Stabilizing support bar 1112 may not be covered by wrap 1122. The stabilizing support bar 1112 may facilitate the placement of the nozzle 1108 during wrapping and subsequent removal of the nozzle 1108 after creation of the modified atmosphere. According to embodiments, when a modified atmosphere has been created inside of the sealed enclosure, nozzle finger 1110 may be removed from underneath wrap 1122. For example, nozzle finger 1110 may be removed by pulling and withdrawing the nozzle 1108 from in between the wrap 1122 and top sheet 1104. As the nozzle finger 1110 is withdrawn, the wrap 1122 and top sheet 1104 may come into contact and may seal against each other closing the nozzle opening left behind as the nozzle 1108 is withdrawn. Wrap 1122 may be taped or self-adhered to top sheet 1104 to maintain the modified atmosphere inside of the sealed enclosure.
As shown in
A nozzle 3108 may be provided to inject and/or remove (e.g., suction or vacuum) a substance within the sealed enclosure 3101 as described herein. The nozzle 3108 may include a first passage 3110 and a second passage 3112. The first passage 3110 may be an injection passage. The first passage 3110 may be a center injection nozzle. The first passage 3110 may inject a gas, treatment substance, or other substance into the sealed enclosure 3101. The second passage 3112 may be a vacuum and/or venting passage. The second passage 3112 may be a perimeter nozzle. The second passage 3112 may be an annular passage extending around the central first passage 3110. During operation, the first passage 3110 may inject a substance into the sealed enclosure 3101 and the second passage 3112 may remove (e.g., vacuum and/or vent) gas, substance, or air from the sealed enclosure 3101. Together, the injection and vacuuming and/or venting may allow creation of a modified atmosphere within the sealed enclosure 3101. A hose 3113 may be connected and/or fluidly coupled to an end 3114 of the nozzle 3108. The injection and vacuuming/venting may occur simultaneously, sequentially with injection occurring first, sequentially with vacuuming/venting occurring first, or combinations thereof. Although the first passage 3110 is described for injection and the second passage 3112 is described for vacuuming and/or venting, the functions of the first passage 3110 and the second passage 3112 may be reversed. The hose 3113 may be an injection and a venting hose. In some examples, the hose 3113 may have dual passages to align with the dual passages of the nozzle 3108. In some examples, the hose 3113 may be two hoses, one for injection and one for venting.
With continued reference to
Referring back to
Stated another way, the manifold 3116 with the nozzle 3108 coupled thereto, may move toward the wrapped pallet 3100. The nozzle 3108 may be enclosed within the film wrap (e.g., between the side sheet 3102 and the top sheet 3104). The pad 3118 may connect to the side wrap 3102. The creation of the modified environment as described herein may occur (e.g., vacuum, vent, modified atmosphere and substance dispersion into pallet while controlling enclosure pressure). A negative pressure may be created within the sealed enclosure 3101. The negative pressure may be small or slight as compared to the positive pressures created or present within the sealed enclosure 3101. The nozzle 3108 may be pulled out of the sealed enclosure 3101. The negative pressure present in the sealed enclosure 3101 while the nozzle 3108 is being retracted or pulled out, in combination with the application of pressure from the pad 3118, may prevent or reduce the likelihood of the modified atmosphere from escaping from the sealed enclosure 3101. After the nozzle 3108 is removed, the side sheet 3102 may once again adhere to the side 3104a of the top sheet 3104 creating a seal for the sealed enclosure 3101. Additionally, or alternatively, tape, adhesive, or other sealing devices may close the side sheet 3102 to the top sheet 3104 to seal the sealed enclosure. After the seal is formed, the pad 3118 may be pulled back and/or removed.
Although the nozzle 3108 is shown entering the sealed enclosure 3101 at an upper corner between the side sheet 3102 and the top sheet 3104, the nozzle 3108 may be inserted into the sealed enclosure 3101 in other locations. For example, the nozzle 3108 may be inserted into the sealed enclosure 3101 through a puncture in the side sheet 3102 (at any location along the surface of the side sheet 3102), through a puncture in the top sheet 3104 (at any location along the surface of the top sheet 3104), at a corner between the side sheet 3102 and the bottom sheet 3105, or combinations thereof.
Referring to
Referring to
For example, in
In another example, shown in
During operation, and referring to
The main difference between
The aforementioned process described in
In another example, shown in
In
The nozzles, the hoses, the perimeter and central passages, or any or all of these components, may be angled at any angle with respect to the stacked enclosure. In some examples, the components are angled at 90 degrees. In some examples, the components are positioned at any angle to facilitate improved operations, efficient gas and substance treatment injection, and effective distribution within the sealed enclosure: all while maintaining environmental & worker safety via the nozzle design, containment pad/roller/or seal, along with the controlled regulation of flows+pressures in and out of the enclosure.
The manifolds, nozzles, stabilizing support bars or mountings, and hoses described herein may be adjustable. That is, they may be moved laterally (e.g., horizontally) and/or vertically and/or angularly, to adjust the position of the manifold. In this manner, the stabilizing support bar and nozzle may be placed in the desired position on the stacked goods to achieve a secure position and optimal position for injecting and/or venting-vacuuming gases. The nozzles may include quick connect and disconnect arrangements to allow for customization to a stacked product on a pallet. The nozzle and/or manifold may be moved, placed, or removed manually or automatically (e.g., mechanically). Although described herein as a stabilizing support bar, any support structure, such as, for example, but not limited to, mechanical, hydraulic, or robotic apparatus for holding the nozzle or manifold components, sensors, containment, and sealing devices is contemplated.
The system described herein for wrapping a pallet of stacked goods and providing a modified environment as well as product specific treatments within the wrapped pallet may include any number of combinations of the components described herein, in any order, in a manual, semi-automatic, or automatic manner, and in any of the described embodiments, or combinations thereof. The desired combination of manual, semi-automatic, or automatic system may be based on need, cost, speed, resource requirements, throughput of the system, or combinations thereof.
The modified atmosphere of the present disclosure may include controlling functional substances or ingredients, such as, for example, oxygen, carbon dioxide, sanitization, aroma, ethylene, or combinations thereof within the sealed enclosure (e.g., within the space enclosed by the wrap). The modified atmosphere may be delivered by a gas or industrial gas. Thus, the modified atmosphere of the present disclosure allows for the stacked products enclosed by the wrap to be treated for a particular issue or objective (e.g., sanitizing the goods, conditioning for target ripeness, treatment to control, slow or stop ripening, providing aroma for the goods, etc.). By providing the modified atmosphere to the entire pallet of stacked goods, the pallet may be treated as a whole without the need for a sachet or other smaller package to be provided for each individual clamshell, consumer package, or box of product. That is, the modified atmosphere prevents, for example, the need to include an individual functional substance (e.g., sanitizing substance, ripeness control) to each individual container of product on the pallet, rather applies the functional substance to the entire pallet of stacked goods. This may reduce cost and increase efficiency in the packaging, stacking, storing, and shipping of goods. Automating the process as described herein, may further enhance the efficiency and lower the cost by rendering the process easier to treat pallets of packages instead of each individual package. There are other advantages to separating the functional substances from the contents within the individual packages or clamshells of perishable products. Those advantages include but are not limited to controlled application following harvest, safety or handling by consumers, timing of addition of functional substance, disposal by warehouse or retail personnel instead of consumers. The pallet treatment can be provided for targeted product that needs it for specific customers or markets. Sachets, once packed with all the goods, may be a cost not recoverable or may be a liability where customers or markets have not requested it.
The modified atmosphere of the present disclosure may include at least one gas blended with another gas and/or with a functional substance. The blending may occur prior to the sealed enclosure or within the sealed enclosure. The blending may occur in a hose, a nozzle, a blending box or chamber, or any combination thereof. The hose may include tubes or channels to blend. The system may combine multiple streams of gas and/or functional substances within the hose to blend.
In the disclosure herein, stacked goods may include, for example, boxed or prepacked produce. The top sheet, bottom sheet, side or wrap sheet, or any combination thereof may be a flexible or rigid plastic film, such as high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, or polypropylene, for example. The top sheet, bottom sheet, side or wrap sheet, or any combination thereof may be natural, compostable materials. The top sheet, bottom sheet, side or wrap sheet, or any combination thereof may be a plastic sheet. The top sheet, bottom sheet, side or wrap sheet, or any combination thereof may be made of high-density polyethylene, low-density polyethylene, or polypropylene, for example. The wrap sheet may be a stretch film as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/815,208 Method and Systems for Applying Stretch Films/Plastic Films at a Controlled Temperature, hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The top sheet, bottom sheet, or wrap sheet, or any combination thereof may be perforated in a way to enable some controlled intrusion of outside air and release of the gasses within the pallet to achieve target levels of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and moisture. The top sheet, bottom sheet, side or wrap sheet, or any combination thereof may be formed of a material having a resistance or barrier to oxygen or carbon dioxide transmission. The top sheet, bottom sheet, side or wrap sheet, or any combination thereof may be formed of a material having a predetermined oxygen transmission rate and/or carbon dioxide transmission rate. In the described system and method, more than one layer of the top sheet, bottom sheet, side or wrap sheet, or any combination thereof may be provided. Each layer may have the same properties or may have different properties. One or more layers may have the same properties and one or more layers may have different properties. One or more layers may be treated with a functional substance (e.g., incorporated or impregnated therein). The number of layers of each of the top sheet, bottom sheet, side or wrap sheet, the materials selected, the material properties, the functional substances selected, or any combination thereof may be selected based on the particular product contained in the pallet. For example, where the stacked product is asparagus, the sheets may be light inhibiting coated moisture barrier paper sheets.
The functional sheet may include ingredients that have been impregnated, laminated, coated, or printed on; these ingredients may be able to neutralize, absorb, or block ethylene; absorb or neutralize malodors; absorb or neutralize carbon dioxide; absorb moisture or oxygen; sanitize; or add aroma. The functional substances or ingredients may be incorporated into the top sheet, bottom sheet, or the wrapper sheet. The functional substances or ingredients may be a sanitizer, a preservative, an antifungal, an essential oil, a reducing agent, an aroma, cyclodextrins, ethylene reducing compound, ethylene blocking compound, ethylene scavenging compound, a ripening or conditioning agent.
The modified atmosphere substances may include compressed filtered, dry, or humidified air, an industrial gas including but not limited to nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and oxygen, & carbon monoxide. The targeted functional substances (including any sanitizers and allowable substances for treatment of the product) are mixed into the injected gas and may include: chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, ozone, ionized air or industrial gas, ionized sanitizer or water, pH adjusted water or sanitizer, limonene, lemon oil, orange oil, grapefruit oil, rosemary oil, thyme oil, sunflower oil, other fruit-derived oils, tea tree oil, cinnamon oil, eucalyptus oil, potassium oleate, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), ascorbic acid, citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, calcium phosphate, linear terpenes, cyclic terpenes, alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ketones, lactones, thiols, lipase, rose oil, rose essence, and fruit essence, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, flavor compounds, color compounds, essence, essential oil, sugar, THC or THC compounds, CBD or CBD compounds, probiotics, phages, enzymes, pharmaceutical compounds, biological compounds or ripening management or conditioning agents such as ethylene or ethephon. The modified environment may include powders, nano-particles, fluidized and/or gaseous state materials. The modified environment may include substances injected in the form of a vapor, mist, or gaseous (invisible or cloud like) state. Any combination of the aforementioned functional substances may be provided.
Although described with respect to pallets, the systems and methods of the present disclosure may be employed to provide an enclosure and/or a modified atmosphere and/or substance treatments in other containers or platforms, such as, for example, slip-sheets, bins, crates, and other open top containers (including containers with an opening or openings that can be enclosed using the system and methods described). The containers may be formed of any material. In some cases, the bins may include a liner, such as a plastic liner. The liner may be omitted depending on the material of the bin and/or the modified atmosphere provided. The containers, goods, products, or packages may or may not be provided on a pallet. The containers, goods, products, or packages may be provided on a slip-sheet. The slip-sheet may be provided in lieu of or in addition to a pallet or other container.
In an exemplary embodiment where the container is an open-topped bin, the bin may be filled with a product (e.g., a perishable product or produce). Using a top sheet dispenser, as described herein, the open top of the bin may be sealed. The top sheet may be sealed to the bin with tape or other adhesive and/or may cling to the sides of the bin (in a similar manner as the sheets may cling to the sides of the pallet of stacked goods). The top sheet may be sealed to the bin by providing a wrap sheet (e.g., such as provided with a pallet wrapper) around the circumference of the bin. The wrap sheet may hold the edges of the top sheet to the bin. Once the interior of the bin is sealed or in conjunction with the sealing process, a modified atmosphere may be provided in any of the manners described here (e.g., with the use of nozzles). Functional substances may be applied to the bin, the top sheet, and/or may be introduced into the modified atmosphere.
According to the disclosure, a system for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure is disclosed comprising: a top sheet applicator, a bottom sheet applicator, a wrapper, and a nozzle.
According to the disclosure, the system and methods may be accomplished via a manual or hand method, a semi-automated method, or a fully automated method.
According to the disclosure, there are several critical components of the system, methods, and apparatuses. These include placing a sealable top and bottom sheet or cap on the pallet, wrapping the pallet to create the sealed enclosure, and then injecting the modified atmosphere and/or functional substances into the sealed pallet with or without the use of industrial gasses.
According to the disclosure, creating the sealed enclosure around the pallet has several alternative wrapper options, including turn table, single arm wrapper, two arm wrapper, ring wrapper, orbital wrapper, machine/cart wrapper, and manual/hand wrapper.
According to the disclosure, an injector for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure is disclosed comprising: a stabilizing support bar; and at least one nozzle formed at a right angle to the stabilizing support bar, the nozzle connected to a gas source; wherein the stabilizing support bar is placed on top of a package to be enclosed in the sealed enclosure, and the gas is injected into the sealed enclosure through the nozzle.
According to the disclosure, the nozzle for injecting the modified atmosphere and other functional substances into the sealed enclosure provides improved flow disbursements down and/or up and into the pallet.
According to the disclosure, the injection system and nozzle(s) may enable and facilitate mixing gasses and substances from multiple sources. These sources and substances may be channeled individually through the nozzle to a point near the tip or to specific points on the nozzle to improve distribution or the desired pattern of distribution. The nozzle(s) may have a blending, a turbo boost and/or turbo charger capability or effect added, or other such devices built into the one or more nozzles for injecting powders, nano-particles, fluidized and/or gaseous state materials.
According to the disclosure, methods and apparatus are used to inject substances in the form of a vapor, mist, or gaseous (invisible or cloud like) state via the system and nozzle(s) into the pallet enclosure. The apparatus used to convert or accelerate a liquid or solid substance into a gaseous state may include but not be limited to a nebulizer, ultrasonic device, a vaporizer and/or other such devices.
According to the disclosure, an injector for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure is disclosed comprising: a base, wherein a package to be enclosed in the sealed enclosure is placed on the base; and a nozzle formed at a right angle to the base, the nozzle connected to a gas source; wherein the gas is injected into the sealed enclosure through the nozzle.
According to the disclosure, a method for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure is disclosed comprising: placing a bottom sheet on a bottom surface of a package to be enclosed inside the sealed enclosure; placing a top sheet on a top surface of the package; placing a manifold on the top sheet, the manifold having a portion extending along a side surface of the package; applying a side sheet by rotating the package along a longitudinal axis of the package, the side sheet covering the portion of the manifold extending along the side surface of the package, the bottom sheet, top sheet, and side sheet forming the sealed enclosure; injecting at least one gas into the sealed enclosure through the manifold; and removing the manifold.
According to the disclosure, a system for applying a functional sheet along a side surface of the package inside the sealing side sheet; whereby the functional sheet contains ingredients that have been impregnated, laminated, coated, or printed on; these ingredients are able to neutralize, absorb, or block ethylene; absorb or neutralize malodors; absorb or neutralize carbon dioxide; absorb moisture or oxygen; sanitize; or add aroma.
According to the disclosure, the functional ingredients may be incorporated into the top sheet, bottom sheet, or the wrapper sheet.
According to the disclosure, the top sheet, bottom sheet, or wrapper sheet may be perforated in a way to enable some controlled intrusion of outside air and release of the gasses within the pallet to achieve target levels of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and moisture.
According to the disclosure, the top sheet may be constructed in a manner to easily permit connection of a nozzle that may be used to add or exchange gas mixture within the sealed enclosure.
According to the disclosure, the modified atmosphere substances include compressed air, filtered, dry, or humidified air, and industrial gasses (including one or more of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, oxygen, & nitrous oxide). The targeted functional substances mixed into the injected gas include: chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, ozone, ionized air or industrial gas, ionized sanitizer or water, pH adjusted water or sanitizer, limonene, lemon oil, orange oil, grapefruit oil, rosemary oil, thyme oil, sunflower oil, other fruit-derived oils, tea tree oil, cinnamon oil, eucalyptus oil, potassium oleate, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), ascorbic acid, citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, calcium phosphate, linear terpenes, cyclic terpenes, alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ketones, lactones, thiols, lipase, rose oil, rose essence, and fruit essence, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, flavor compounds, color compounds, essence, essential oil, sugar, THC or THC compounds, CBD or CBD compounds, probiotics, phages, enzymes, pharmaceutical compounds, biological compounds, or ripening management or conditioning agents such as 1-Methylcyclopropene, ethylene or ethephon.
According to the disclosure, functional substances incorporated into or on the functional sheet, top sheet, bottom sheet, or wrapper sheet include: a sanitizer, a preservative, an antifungal, an essential oil, a reducing agent, an aroma, cyclodextrins, ethylene reducing compound, ethylene blocking compound, ethylene scavenging compound, a ripening agent.
According to the disclosure, the top sheet, bottom sheet, functional sheet, or wrapper sheet may be made using natural, compostable, biodegradable, and/or recyclable materials. Good sealed enclosures are especially important in these modified air systems. If the sealed enclosure leaks, the beneficial gases may escape leaving the perishable product exposed to increased respiration and accelerated senescence. Furthermore, a change in the composition of gases in the enclosure may damage the goods. For example, an excessive amount of CO2, in the enclosure may cause food to discolor or change taste
According to the disclosure, a nozzle with a stabilizing support mounting feature may be provided to reliably position the nozzle relative to the pallet of stacked goods. The nozzle may be positioned as part of the wrapping process to be “sandwiched” between the wrap and the top or bottom sheets to be accessible to the interior volume for controlled venting-vacuum and gassing. The nozzle may be configured and positioned for insertion, use and removal from a pallet of stacked goods without puncturing and/or compromising the integrity of the wrapper of the sealed pallet of stacked goods. One or more nozzles may be used, and the nozzles combined to be interoperable. The nozzles may be part of an automated pallet of stacked goods wrapping system for sealing. The nozzle may be temporary and may be removable. Where two or more nozzles are provided, the nozzles may include one or more injection nozzles and one or more controlled venting/vacuum nozzles. The system may vent and/or vacuum and inject simultaneously or sequentially. The system may allow for an exchange of gases by removing a gas from the sealed enclosure with the controlled vent and/or vacuum nozzle and injecting a gas into the sealed enclosure with the injection nozzle. This may allow for faster more uniform exchange of gas. The injection nozzles may be placed at the top of the sealed enclosure and the venting/vacuum nozzles may be placed at the bottom of the sealed enclosure, or vice versa. In an exemplary embodiment, the controlled venting/vacuum nozzle may remove oxygen from the sealed enclosure before or simultaneously with the injection nozzle injecting nitrogen. The controlled venting/vacuum nozzle is able to regulate and maintain either a positive, a neutral, or as may be preferred a slight negative pressure to prevent gasses or substances from leaking to the environment.
The system and method of the present disclosure may alleviate many of the disadvantages of known apparatus and methods for wrapping and preserving perishable goods by providing an apparatus and method for creating a sealed enclosure around perishable goods stacked on a pallet. The system and method of the present disclosure may provide significantly improved, commercially viable, lower cost treatments of functional substances by applying them to a pallet quantity of perishable goods instead of within individual consumer packages or trays or cases of those packages. A turntable wrap machine may cost approximately 10% to 20% of the cost of the above described high speed wrapping machines. Furthermore, wrapping pallets to create an enclosure is materially less expensive than using the prior art pallet bags, bottom sheets, and tape. Additionally, wrapping of pallets accommodates different size pallets, whereas different size pallets would necessitate different size bags, adding to cost. However, if using a wrapper with a turntable design and the top and bottom sheets or top and bottom caps are pre-applied and/or the pallet needs to be wrapped by hand, it has not been practical or easy to create a consistent sealed enclosure and inject gasses efficiently and effectively. The disclosure further provides a method and system that does not require puncturing and taping of a sealed enclosure.
According to the disclosure and embodiments, there are unique elements of the preferred system, methods and apparatus that can be applied even to significantly improve on the less preferred prior art which uses a bag, bottom sheet, and tape for creating and sealing an encloser over stacked products on a pallet and then requires puncturing the bag inserting a nozzle to inject an industrial gas of CO2 or N2 and then taping over the puncture in the sealed enclosure to create a modified atmosphere package (MAP). The unique elements of the new system include, but are not limited to, use of the improved bottom sheet dispenser, improved method and apparatus (as shown in the figures) for tape sealing the bottom sheet to the pallet bag and injection of a prescribed atmospheric gas, injecting a functional substance treatment(s), adding a functional bottom sheet, or adding a substance treatment to the bottom sheet or within the sealed enclosure, improved manifold and nozzle designs for gas injection, the use of pressure pads, collars with aspirators, and rollers or containment devices during the gas injection and sealing process, and the use of one or more input devices such as scanners, cameras, and sensors to provide the required data to semi-automate, or automate the process, and too accurately deliver prescribed product treatments. Remote sensing devices may also be provided. With a remote sensing device, the O2 level within an enclosure may be determined without the need to physically sample the atmosphere within the enclosure using a sample line or tube inside of the nozzle.
According to an embodiment, an apparatus for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure may include a stabilizing support bar; and at least one nozzle attached to the stabilizing support bar at an angle, the at least one nozzle being configured to connect to a gas source, wherein the stabilizing support bar is configured for being placed on a package to be enclosed in the sealed enclosure, and the at least one nozzle is configured to inject gas into the sealed enclosure through the nozzle.
According to an embodiment, the package comprises stacked goods on a pallet, a slip-sheet, in a bin, or other container.
According to an embodiment, a top sheet is placed directly on top of the package and the stabilizing support bar is placed on top of the top sheet.
According to an embodiment, the nozzle is connected to a vacuum source or controlled venting mechanism.
According to an embodiment, the angle formed between the nozzle and the stabilizing support bar is a right angle.
According to an embodiment, the stabilizing support bar has a package facing side for positioning adjacent a first package side, and the nozzle, the at least one nozzle having a nozzle package facing side for positioning adjacent a second package side, different from the first package side, wherein the angle formed between the nozzle and stabilizing support bar angle corresponds with a package angle, whereby the stabilizer bar is adjacent the first package side and the at least one nozzle is adjacent the second package side, the at least one nozzle is positioned to be a fluid conduit between the gas source and an interior of the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, apparatus for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure may include a base, wherein a package to be enclosed in the sealed enclosure is placed on the base; and a nozzle formed at a right angle to the base, the nozzle connected to a gas source, wherein the modified atmosphere is injected into the sealed enclosure through the nozzle.
According to an embodiment, the base is a pallet or slip-sheet, and the package comprises stacked goods on the pallet or the slip-sheet or bottom cap.
According to an embodiment, a bottom sheet is placed directly on the base and the package is placed on top of the bottom sheet or a bottom cap.
According to an embodiment, the nozzle is connected to a vacuum source. (a duplicate) or change to controlled venting apparatus.
According to an embodiment, the base rests on the floor, a platform, a conveyor, or rotatable turntable.
According to an embodiment, a vacuum or controlled venting is piped through an arm to the nozzle, the nozzle configured as a multipurpose nozzle to evacuate air, regulate the pressure within the enclosure, and to inject the modified atmosphere or compressed air, and wherein one or more substances are injected through one or more channels, tubes, ports, turbos in the nozzle to direct, speed, or improve disbursement into the sealed enclosure enabling improved regulated substance treatments throughout the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the apparatus may further include applying a top sheet, a bottom sheet, and a wrap sheet to the package, wherein the top sheet, the bottom sheet, and the wrap sheet form the sealed enclosure, and wherein the vacuum and/or the modified atmosphere is performed simultaneously with wrapping of the wrap sheet.
According to an embodiment, a method for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure may include placing a bottom sheet on a bottom surface of a package on a pallet, the package to be enclosed inside the sealed enclosure; placing a top sheet on a top surface of the package; placing a manifold on the top sheet, the manifold having a portion extending along a side surface of the package; applying a side sheet by rotating the package along a longitudinal axis of the package, the side sheet covering the portion of the manifold extending along the side surface of the package, the bottom sheet, the top sheet, and the side sheet forming the sealed enclosure; injecting at least one gas into the sealed enclosure through the manifold; and removing the manifold.
According to an embodiment, a functional sheet is applied to the side surface of the package before the side sheet, the top sheet, or the bottom sheet are applied.
According to an embodiment, the functional sheet comprises ingredients that i) neutralize, absorb, or blocks ethylene, ii) neutralize or absorb malodors, iii) neutralize or absorb carbon dioxide, iv) absorb moisture, v) sanitize, vi) add aroma, or vii) any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the top sheet, the bottom sheet, the functional sheet, or the side sheet are formed of natural, compostable, recyclable, or reusable materials.
According to an embodiment, the top sheet, the bottom sheet, the side sheet, a functional sheet, or other materials contained within the sealed enclosure are made of pulp-based materials, paper materials, woven materials, non-woven materials, foils, or combinations thereof, and wherein, the top sheet, the bottom sheet, the side sheet, the functional sheet, or other materials contained within the sealed enclosure are then sprayed, coated, impregnated, laminated, embossed, printed with, generally contain, or combinations thereof, with functional substances.
According to an embodiment, functional substances are incorporated into any of the top sheet, the bottom sheet, or the side sheet.
According to an embodiment, the method may further include placing, spraying, or otherwise applying one or more functional substances on top of the pallet and below the top sheet in a sachet, pad, as a liquid mixture, as a material substrate, or combinations thereof.
According to an embodiment, the method may further include placing, spraying, or otherwise applying one or more functional substances on top of the bottom sheet in a sachet, pad, sheet, fiberboard, or as a liquid mixture.
According to an embodiment, any of the top sheet, the bottom sheet, or the side sheet is perforated or treated such that some controlled transmission of outside air in and transmission of gasses out of the pallet is permitted to achieve target levels of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide and moisture.
According to an embodiment, the top sheet is constructed in a manner to easily permit connection of a nozzle configured to add or exchange gas mixture around the package during or after the enclosure is sealed.
According to an embodiment, the at least one gas includes compressed, filtered, dry, or humidified air, industrial gas (such as nitrogen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide), ozone, air or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the industrial gas is nitrogen, carbon dioxide, oxygen, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, an industrial gas that has been ionized or treated by plasma or corona discharge, or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the method may further include functional substances mixed into the at least one gas, the functional substances including one or more forms of: chlorine dioxide, nitrous oxide, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, ozone, or any sanitizer, ionized water, limonene, lemon oil, orange oil, grapefruit oil, rosemary oil, thyme oil, sunflower oil, other fruit-derived oils, tea tree oil, cinnamon oil, eucalyptus oil, potassium oleate, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), ascorbic acid, citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, potassium carbonate, calcium phosphate, linear terpenes, cyclic terpenes, alcohols, aldehydes, esters, ketones, lactones, thiols, lipase, rose oil, rose essence, and fruit essence, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, flavor compounds, color compounds, essence, essential oil, sugar, THC or THC compounds, CBD or CBD compounds, probiotics, phages, enzymes, pharmaceutical compounds, biological compounds, or ripening management or conditioning agents such as 1-Methylcyclopropene, ethylene or ethephon.
According to an embodiment, incorporating functional substances into or on a functional sheet, the top sheet, the bottom sheet, and/or the side sheet, wherein the functional substances include one or more of: a sanitizer, a preservative, an antifungal, an essential oil, a reducing agent, an aroma, cyclodextrins, ethylene reducing compound, ethylene blocking compound, ethylene scavenging compound, and a ripening agent.
According to an embodiment, the step of injecting at least one gas into the sealed enclosure through the manifold comprises injecting the gas after the package has been sealed or during final stages of forming the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the method may further include forming a seal between the side sheet and the top sheet at an interface where the nozzle portion of the manifold extending along the side surface of the package and after removal of the nozzle portion of the manifold, the sheets adhere to one another forming the seal.
According to an embodiment, the method may further include forming a seal between the side sheet and the top sheet or forming a seal between the side sheet and the bottom sheet, wherein the seal is formed at an interface where the nozzle portion of the manifold had been inserted along the side surface of the package and after removal of the nozzle portion of the manifold, the sheets adhere to one another forming the seal.
According to an embodiment, the seal is formed or enhanced by one or more devices to wipe, press, roll, cover, bind, or any combination thereof, over the area of interface between the sheets.
According to an embodiment, the method may further include applying a vacuum or controlled regulated venting to the sealed enclosure through the manifold before injecting the at least one gas into the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the pallet is placed on a rotatable turntable during the step of applying the side sheet.
According to an embodiment, the package is rotated during the steps of applying the side sheet and injecting the at least one gas into the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the manifold comprises a nozzle, a hose, and a mounting framework.
According to an embodiment, the mounting framework is a stabilizing support bar or a mechanical-robotic controlled support mounting.
According to an embodiment, wherein the nozzle portion of the manifold extends inside the sealed enclosure between the package and the top sheet, side sheet, and bottom sheet, and wherein the at least one gas is injected through the portion of the manifold extending along the side surface of the package.
According to an embodiment, the at least one gas is blended with a substance in the hose, in the nozzle, in a blending chamber, or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the substance is another gas, pressurized gas, pressurized air, a functional substance, or combinations thereof.
According to an embodiment, the at least one gas is blended with a substance prior to the sealed enclosure or within the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the top sheet, the bottom sheet, side sheet, or any combination thereof comprises a predetermined oxygen transmission rate or a predetermined carbon dioxide transmission rate. (this may also include a predetermined transmission rate of another functional substance).
According to an embodiment, the injecting of the at least one gas creates the modified atmosphere.
According to an embodiment, the modified atmosphere controls a moisture level within the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, wherein the manifold extends inside the sealed enclosure between the package and the top sheet, side sheet, and bottom sheet, and a vacuum or controlled venting and pressure regulations is applied through the portion of the manifold extending along the side surface of the package(s).
According to an embodiment, the top sheet, the bottom sheet, the side sheet, or any combination thereof are adhered to or cling to the package with one or more brushes or a wiping device such that the ends of the sheet are secured to the package.
According to an embodiment, a system for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure may include a top sheet applicator, a bottom sheet applicator, a wrapper, and a nozzle configured to create the modified atmosphere in the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the system may include a functional sheet applicator.
According to an embodiment, the wrapper is a ring wrapper.
According to an embodiment, the sealed enclosure surrounds one or more packages placed on a pallet.
According to an embodiment, the wrapper is a pallet wrapper.
According to an embodiment, a system for creating a modified atmosphere in a sealed enclosure may include an injection system having one or more nozzles, the injection system configured to enable and facilitate mixing of air, industrial gasses, and/or substances from multiple sources, wherein the one or more nozzles include one or more internal channels, the one or more internal channels configured to channel the air, industrial gasses, and/or substances from multiple sources to a point near a tip of the nozzle to improve distribution or a desired pattern of distribution, wherein the one or more nozzles are configured for improved blending and distribution, and wherein the one or more nozzles include a pressure pump, mixing chamber, high pressure air, industrial gas or volatized liquid, a high pressure surge chamber, a turbo boost, a turbo charger, or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the one or more nozzles are configured for injection of gaseous state, fine, or superfine materials and substances.
According to an embodiment, the injection system is programmed and controlled to inject one or more combinations of micro particles, powders, nano-particles, or fluidized substances under air or industrial gas pressure.
According to an embodiment, the injection system is programmed and controlled to deliver substances in the form of a vapor, mist, or gaseous (invisible or cloud like) state via the system and nozzle(s) into the sealed enclosure.
According to an embodiment, the system may include a device configured to convert or accelerate or blend a liquid or solid substance into a gaseous state, wherein the device is one or more of a nebulizer, ultrasonic device, a vaporizer and/or other such devices.
According to an embodiment, the sealed enclosure surrounds one or more packages placed on a pallet.
According to an embodiment, the sealed enclosure may be a bag tape sealed to a bottom sheet, whereby special nozzles, pads, rollers, or collars with aspirating vacuum or controlled venting are used to safely inject gasses and functional substances into the sealed enclosure, maintain a slight negative or regulated pressure within the enclosure, all the while capturing or preventing any gasses or substances from leaking out during injection or nozzle removal and sealing.
According to an embodiment, a system of preserving, protecting, and enhancing a perishable product with multiple sequential and/or simultaneous process steps may include a wrapping system for creating a wrapped and sealed enclosure around a package on a pallet, using environmentally friendly, specified functional wrapping material, a modified environment system for creating specified modified atmospheric gas levels, along with specified treatments and substances for sanitizing/reducing a level of undesirable microbes in a head space and on surfaces of the package and adding prescribed substance treatments to create desired outcomes/effects to the package.
According to an embodiment, the package comprises one or more perishable products or one or more packages of perishable products.
According to an embodiment, the modified environment system further includes regulation of the sealed enclosure, product surface (pH), product aroma, or other value-added treatments to lower cost, improve safety, reduce waste, increase efficiency via a prescribed combination of processes, methods, and apparatus.
According to an embodiment, the system may include one or more sensors, cameras, scanners, or devices configured to determine a product or a package type, a product or package quantity, the dimensions or volume of a product or the package enclosed (or to be enclosed), or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the system may include one or more sensors, scanners, or devices are configured to collect and record data, the data configured to be employed by a system, a program, and a controller to create a prescribed wrapped and sealed enclosure around the package on the pallet, a specified functional wrapping material, a prescribed modified environment with specified modified atmospheric gas levels, specified treatments and substances for sanitizing or reducing a level of undesirable microbes in a head space and on surfaces of the perishable product, adding prescribed substance treatments, or any combination thereof.
According to an embodiment, the data is configured to be used immediately, or in the future, and may employ machine learning and AI, to create desired outcomes/effects to preserve, protect and/or enhance the perishable product.
While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Features, in whole or in part, in one embodiment may be utilized in other embodiments. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described embodiments but should instead be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.
This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/191,720, filed May 21, 2021, the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. This application is related to International Patent Application No. PCT/US2020/067731 filed Dec. 31, 2020, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/955,969, filed Dec. 31, 2019, the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2022/030263 | 5/20/2022 | WO |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63191720 | May 2021 | US |
