Patent attributes
Provided is a valve element for venting fluids, such as gas or liquids, entrapped in a packaging enclosure. The valve element includes a base element having an aperture disposed through it and a membrane having a protruding raised portion. The membrane is attached to and overlays the base element. The raised portion is selectively configurable between a concave position and a convex position by applying an external force against the apex of the raised portion. When configured in the convex position, the raised portion is spaced apart from the aperture allowing fluid communication therethrough. When configured in the concave position, the raised portion obstructs the aperture preventing fluid communication therethrough. To vent air passing through the aperture into the environment, an expandable channel for providing a clearance is provided between the membrane and the base element.
