Supply of packaging bags for a filling apparatus
A ribbon of packaging comprises individual packages ( 11 ) adjacently and separably arranged for separation prior to filling. The ribbon is preferably drawn under tension from a reel, and the packages are linked by mechanical couplers (FIG. 11 ) which are separable in a direction orthogonally to the traction force. The packages have a closure (FIG. 8 ) which is removed and replaced to permit filling. Also disclosed are preferred package couplers, and filling and dispensing arrangements.
1. A ribbon of interconnected collapsed containers, each container comprising a flexible container body that is flat in a collapsed state and a closure joined to one edge of the container body, the closure comprising a neck and a cap, the neck defining oppositely directed male and female couplings, the collapsed containers being interconnected by engagement of the male coupling of one container with the female coupling of an adjacent container, wherein the collapsed container bodies of adjacent containers overlap one another, and wherein the male and female couplings are configured to permit relative rotation between adjacent containers without causing detachment of the couplings such that the ribbon can be coiled.
2. The ribbon of claim 1 , wherein the male and female couplings are adapted to remain coupled together when force is exerted on the ribbon along a length direction of the ribbon for moving the ribbon along a path, and are adapted to be separable on application of a disengagement force in a direction substantially orthogonal to said length direction.
3. The ribbon of claim 1 , wherein the male and female couplings are adapted for snap-fit engagement.
4. The ribbon of claim 1 , wherein the male coupling comprises a pin extending in a direction substantially parallel to said neck, and the female coupling comprises a ‘C’ shaped mouth.
5. The ribbon of claim 4 , wherein the female coupling comprises a hook defining said mouth.
6. The ribbon of claim 5 , wherein said mouth is directed substantially orthogonally to said first direction.
7. The ribbon of claim 5 , wherein the mouth is narrowed at its opening to provide for snap-fit engagement with said pin.
8. The ribbon of claim 4 , wherein said mouth extends circumferentially for slightly more than 180°.
9. The ribbon of claim 4 , wherein said mouth further comprises a guide portion in the form of a flared mouth.
10. The ribbon of claim 9 , wherein one side of the guide portion defines a peak at its junction with said flared mouth.