Reusable, Autoclaveable Closure Device for a Flexible Bag

Abstract

The present invention is a sterilizable, reusable flexible bag closure device for closing the open end(s) of a flexible bag. The closure device comprises two primary structural components: an elongated clamp member and an elongated rod member. The open end of the flexible bag is folded around the elongated rod member. The combination of the rod member with the bag end folded over the rod member is then installed into the interior space of the clamp member.

1 . An autoclavable, reusable flexible bag closure device for closing an open end of a flexible bag, the device comprising:
 an elongated clamp member having a clamp length substantially at least as long as the width of the open end of the bag to be closed, and having a “C”-shaped structural cross-section defining an interior space cross-section with a clamp ID, and having jaws that are flexible and have memory, the jaws framing a clamp opening; and   a rod member having a rod length substantially at least as long as the width of the open end of the bag to be closed, and a rod OD smaller than the clamp ID, the rod member loosely receivable in the interior space of the clamp member.   
   
   
       2 . The sterilizable, reusable flexible bag closure device of  claim 1 , further comprising a linkage member connecting and a clamp member end to a rod member end. 
   
   
       3 . The sterilizable, reusable flexible bag closure device of  claim 1 , further comprising a free space distance between the rod OD and the clamp ID, the free space disposed to closely receive at least one thickness of the flexible bag between an interior surface of the interior space of the clamp member and an external surface of the rod member. 
   
   
       4 . The sterilizable, reusable flexible bag closure device of  claim 1 , wherein the “C”-shaped cross-section having an arc of greater than 180 degrees and less than 280 degrees, the arc sufficient to enable the clamp member to closely receive and hold the rod member, with a thickness of the flexible bag disposed around it, within the interior space of the clamp member.