U.S. patent application number 09/833873 was filed with the patent office on 2002-07-18 for human hydration system.
Invention is credited to Bowman, Ronald L..
Application Number | 20020092858 09/833873 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22656153 |
Filed Date | 2002-07-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020092858 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bowman, Ronald L. |
July 18, 2002 |
Human hydration system
Abstract
A rigid container holds fluid for human consumption. A first
fluid tube and an air vent tube have first ends connected internal
the container and have second ends extending away from the
container. A rigid tube mount includes a fluid flow passageway with
a fluid output and a fluid input that is connected to the second
end of the fluid tube, and an air flow passageway with an air input
and an air output connected to the second end of the air vent-tube.
A flexible mouth member includes a bite valve portion and an air
filter portion, the air filter portion includes an open sided
cavity having an air filter mounted therein, the cavity having an
open bottom mounted onto the air input of the air flow passageway,
the bite valve portion includes a fluid cavity formed by a number
of side walls and a top wall, the fluid cavity has an open bottom
mounted onto the fluid output of the fluid flow passageway. An
external mouth stop extends outward from the flexible member for
engagement with the user's lips and as a tactile mouth insertion
indicator whereby the bite valve portion is in the user's mouth as
the air filter portion is external. A bite valve that will maintain
a level of liquid at any position in the liquid transfer tube and
will allow a liquid to return to the container at any desired time.
A flexible fluid tube internal the container has one end connected
to the one end of the first fluid tube, and has a second end
extending a distance into the container less than the container
depth. Movement of the flexible fluid tube is damped by fluid, and
the flexible fluid tube engages the container side walls when the
container is relatively empty, providing an audible container empty
signal.
Inventors: |
Bowman, Ronald L.;
(US) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Ronald L. Bowman
11957 Brook Road
Golden
CO
80403
US
|
Family ID: |
22656153 |
Appl. No.: |
09/833873 |
Filed: |
April 12, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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09833873 |
Apr 12, 2001 |
|
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09179337 |
Oct 27, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/709 ;
220/705 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61J 15/0011 20130101;
A47G 19/2266 20130101; A47G 21/18 20130101; A47G 21/185 20130101;
A61J 15/0092 20130101; A45F 3/16 20130101; A61J 9/006 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/709 ;
220/705 |
International
Class: |
A47G 019/22 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A Human Hydration System comprising; a portable container for
holding a liquid, whereby said container holds a defined open shape
when empty, a vent allowing air to enter said container as said
liquid is removed, a flexible liquid tube with a first end
connected into said container and a second end extending away from
said container, said first end of flexible liquid tube establishing
contact with said liquid in said container, a mouth operated liquid
dispenser connected to said second end of said liquid tube for
establishing fluidic communication with said liquid in said
container, whereby said mouth operated liquid dispenser maintains
said liquid at any desired level in said liquid tube.
2. A Human Hydration System is accordance with claim 1 whereas;
said mouth operated liquid dispenser adjusts said liquid to any
level in said liquid tube.
3. A Human Hydration System is accordance with claim 1 whereas;
said mouth operated liquid dispenser allows said liquid to return
to said container.
4. A Human Hydration System is accordance with claim 1 wherein; a
pressure differential of less than 21/2 pounds per square inch is
required to move said liquid from said container through said mouth
operated liquid dispenser and air through said vent.
5. A Human Hydration System in accordance with claim 1 whereas;
said liquid tube has an internal volume of 115 cubic centimeters or
less.
6. A Human hydration System in accordance with claim 1 whereas;
said vent is remote to said container.
7. A Human Hydration System in accordance with claim 1 whereas;
said mouth operated liquid dispenser is positioned from 0.degree.
to 90.degree. from said liquid tube.
8. A Human Hydration System comprising; a portable container for
holding a liquid, whereby said container holds a defined open shape
when empty, a vent allowing air to enter said container as said
liquid is removed, a flexible liquid tube with a first end
connected into said container and a second end extending away from
said container, said first end of flexible liquid tube establishing
contact with said liquid in said container, a mouth operated liquid
dispenser connected to said second end of said liquid tube for
establishing fluidic communication with said liquid in said
container, whereby said mouth operated liquid dispenser adjusts
said liquid to any desired level in said liquid tube.
9. A Human Hydration System is accordance with claim 8 whereas;
said mouth operated liquid dispenser maintains said liquid at any
level in said liquid tube.
10. A Human Hydration System is accordance with claim 8 whereas;
said mouth operated liquid dispenser allows said liquid to return
to said container.
11. A Human Hydration System is accordance with claim 8 wherein; a
pressure differential of less than 21/2 pounds per square inch is
required to move said liquid from said container through said mouth
operated liquid dispenser and air through said vent.
12. A Human Hydration System in accordance with claim 8 whereas;
said liquid tube has an internal volume of 115 cubic centimeters or
less.
13. A Human hydration System in accordance with claim 8 whereas;
said vent is remote to said container.
14. A Human Hydration System in accordance with claim 8 whereas;
said mouth operated liquid dispenser is positioned from 0.degree.
to 90.degree. from said fluid tube.
15. A Human Hydration System comprising; a portable container for
holding a liquid, whereby said container holds a defined open shape
when empty, a vent allowing air to enter said container as said
liquid is removed, a flexible liquid tube with a first end
connected into said container and a second end extending away from
said container, said first end of flexible liquid tube establishing
contact with said liquid in said container, a mouth operated liquid
dispenser connected to said second end of said liquid tube for
establishing fluidic communication with said liquid in said
container, whereby said mouth operated liquid dispenser allows said
liquid to return to said container.
16. A Human Hydration System is accordance with claim 15 whereas;
said mouth operated liquid dispenser adjusts said liquid to any
level in said liquid tube.
17. A Human Hydration System in accordance with claim 15 whereas;
said mouth operated liquid dispenser maintains said liquid at any
desired level in said liquid tube.
18. A Human Hydration System is accordance with claim 15 wherein; a
pressure differential of less than 21/2 pounds per square inch is
required to move said liquid from said container through said mouth
operated liquid dispenser and air through said vent
19. A Human Hydration System in accordance with claim 15 whereas;
said liquid tube has an internal volume of 115 cubic centimeters or
less.
20. A Human hydration System in accordance with claim 15 whereas;
said vent is remote to said container.
21. A Human Hydration System in accordance with claim 15 whereas;
said mouth operated liquid dispenser is positioned from 0.degree.
to 90.degree. from liquid tube.
Description
[0001] In continuation of patent application Ser. No. 09/179,337
filed on Oct. 10, 1998, now abandoned.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to the field of human
hydration systems. In particular, the present invention relates to
a hydration system having a rigid liquid container with a remote
vent that is located away from the container's liquid reservoir, a
unique construction of a mouth operated liquid dispenser that is
adapted to be placed in the mouth of a user and can maintain liquid
at any level in a liquid tube.
[0004] Human hydration systems are used to hydrate or to re-hydrate
a person that has lost, or is losing, body fluids as a result of
heat, physical exertion, or the like. Generally, there are two
types of human hydration systems; i.e., a hard or rigid container
system and a soft or flexible bladder system.
[0005] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0006] A hard container system typically includes a hard, rigid or
semi rigid liquid reservoir or container that is made from plastic,
metal, glass, or another material that holds its shape when the
container is empty. Examples of hard containers include, but are
not limited to, NALGENE brand bottles, sports cycle bottles,
canteens, and glass bottles. Hard containers can be easily washed,
and one container can hold a number of different liquids, including
water. Because the container is rigid, it is difficult to puncture,
and the container typically retains its shape in a back pack when
items are placed on top of the container. A rigid container system
can be transported separate from or away from the user, for
example, in a water carrier on a bicycle. A hard container system
can also be mounted in a waist pack, allowing the weight of the
liquid to be transferred to the user's hips.
[0007] Hard container systems generally require that the container
be physically removed from a carrier or holder that holds the
container. This often means stopping a physical activity, and
removing the container from its carrier or holder in order to
enable the user to re-hydrate. Virtually all hard containers are
carried in this fashion. NALGENE Outdoor Products has a system that
includes a tube that is passed through the lid of the container.
The user obtains liquid by sucking on the end of the tube and the
tube is compressed with a medical clamp that prevents liquid from
flowing through the tube when it is not desired. In this system the
vent is positioned in the lid of the liquid container. For liquid
to be removed from a hard container the container must be vented to
the atmosphere to permit air to enter and replace the volume of
liquid being removed from the container. Exposure to harsh
environmental conditions could allow dirt to enter the container,
resulting in contamination of the liquid. Dirt can also obstruct
the vent, thereby rendering the vent inoperable. Mechanical vents
require a pressure differential that must be overcome to operate
and this pressure differential adds resistance to the overall
system.
[0008] The elevation difference from the container to the end of
the liquid tube or mouth dispenser can often be many feet. This
requires the user to suck the liquid through the length of the tube
at each use. Some systems utilize check valves to prevent the
liquid from returning to the container and remain in the tube.
Other systems use motorized or manual pumps to force the liquid
through the liquid tube, while other systems require complicated
manual valves either in the liquid tube or mouth dispenser.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,301,858 describes a bicycle mounted hard
container water bottle system wherein a liquid tube includes a
mouth piece, and an oversleeve is provided so that the drinking
tube can be shortened for non-bicycle use, and wherein the bottle
includes a mechanical lid mounted rocker vent and a mouth piece
with a one way valve. The one way valve maintains liquid in the
system up to the mouth piece and allows liquid to move only in a
single exiting direction. U.S. Pat. No. 5,431,308 describes a waist
mounted hydration system, which uses an on/off valve positioned at
an intermediate location in the liquid tube. U.S. Pat. No.
4,852,781 describes a waist mounted hard container that contains a
curved hollow only slightly flexible sipping tube open at both
ends. In this system the liquid returns to the container after each
use and must be sucked through the length of the liquid during each
use. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,265,769, 5,215,231 and 4,139,130 shows
portable hydration systems with rigid or semi rigid containers that
utilize in line check valves at various locations to the container
to prevent liquid from returning to the container. U.S. Pat. No.
5,755,368 shows a portable hydration system that utilizes pressure
from a carbonated beverage or alternate means of creating pressure
within the container. U.S. Pat. No. 513,769 shows a portable
hydration system for military use whereas pressure to move a
substance through a tube is either created by a mechanical pump or
sucking on a mouth dispenser. U.S. Pat. No. 4,971,048 shows a
hydration system with a remote vent tube that a user blows into to
create pressure inside the container to move liquid through a
liquid tube to the user. The vent tube and liquid tube each contain
an unidirectional valve that allows fluid movement in one
direction. A company named Check Water has a system that attaches
to bottled water containers and uses a break away inline check
valve to maintain liquid in the tube extending to the mouth
operated liquid dispenser. This check valve, patented by Paczonay,
prevents liquid from returning to the container.
[0010] Check valves and unidirectional valves have a set value that
must be overcome for the valve to operate properly. This set value
is a pressure differential that must be overcome for the valve to
operate. To achieve this value most valves generally uses spring
tension or the resilient nature of a plastic or rubber material to
close the valve. This tension is preset so the pressure to overcome
the valve remains constant. If a liquid tube or vent contains an
inline check valve the force to overcome the valve remains constant
regardless of all other conditions in the system. Generally
speaking, check valves are expensive to manufacture, degrade over
time, malfunctions when dirty, freezes easily and allows fluid to
flow in a single direction.
[0011] A soft bladder container system includes a soft liquid
container or bladder as a liquid reservoir. A soft bladder system
is easily compressed, folded or deformed. Examples of this type of
system include, but are not limited to, the CAMELBACK brand system,
the PLATYPUS brand system, bota bags, and collapsible water pails.
The bladder that is used in this type of system is pliable, and
requires some type of structural support when filled with liquid
such as water. A tube is often used to draw water to the user's
mouth from the reservoir of the soft bladder system. This enables
the user to re-hydrate without stopping an activity. In use, the
soft bladder or soft container collapses as liquid is removed from
the reservoir. Because the soft bladder is not vented, and the
bladder collapses when liquid is withdrawn, the soft bladder must
be operated with its tube at the container's lowest point, for
example the lid, facing generally downward in order for the bladder
to be fully evacuated of fluid.
[0012] Soft bladder systems are susceptible to punctures and leaks.
While positioned upside down and supported inside a carrier pack, a
leak can drain the bladder of liquid onto vital gear, such as a
sleeping bag or clothing. The soft materials that are used to
manufacture the soft bladder hydration systems are selected to
withstand water, but will often deteriorate or absorb non-water
constituents present in other liquids. A soft bladder type of
system is transported on the back of the user, which may increase
the risk of back fatigue and back injury. The construction of a
soft bladder hydration system typically causes water to flow from
the liquid dispenser when the bladder becomes compressed during
use. In addition a soft container is extremely difficult to clean.
Many manufactures of soft bladder hydration systems such as
CamelBak and Cascade Design offer secondary products such as patch
kits, cleaning brushes, cleaning holders and extensive cleaning
chemicals for their systems.
[0013] U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,816,457, 5,971,357 and 5,727,714 describes
bladder type hydration systems. The system is carried in a back
pack on the user's shoulder. The mouth operated liquid dispenser in
these systems are designed to hold water from flowing through the
valve as the bladder is compressed or when the bladder reservoir is
positioned higher than the liquid dispenser, which is a common
position while using the hydration system while riding a bicycle.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,730,336 describes an elastomer material dispensing
valve for a hydration system wherein the valve's front face
comprises a diaphragm in the shape of a concave surface that faces
the chamber side of the valve, this concave surface also contain
slits and the slits remain in a closed position when the diaphragm
is not distorted. This patent also describes a function of the
valve where it is intentionally deformable from a greater pressure
outside of the valve. This refers to a negative pressure within the
valve when compared to outside pressure. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,085,349,
6,032,831 and 6,070,767 describes a hydration system wherein a
liquid dispensing valve resists a positive pressure within the
valve by incorporating a sealing angle or lips on the internal
surface of the sealing face. These sealing angles and lips increase
sealing pressure within the liquid dispensing valve when pressure
is greater within the valve than the ambient surroundings. U.S.
Pat. No. 6,062,435 shows a hydration system with a liquid
dispensing device that opens and closes by a pressure deferential
on the device. The liquid dispensing device will not allow air to
enter, keeping a liquid at the level of the liquid dispensing
device. This design also contains a necessary baffle to dampen
unexpected compression of the reservoir.
[0014] The present invention shows a hydration system with a rigid
or semi rigid container, a liquid tube and a mouth operated liquid
dispenser. More specifically the present invention shows a
hydration system with a mouth operated liquid dispenser that will
maintain any desired level of liquid in the liquid dispenser or
liquid tube with a supply reservoir located significantly lower
than the liquid dispenser. The present invention also shows that
the liquid in the liquid tube and mouth operated liquid dispenser
may be further adjusted to any location in the liquid tube or
returned to the container if desired. The present invention also
shows a remote vent to a container to help assure that returning
air through the vent is clean when the container encounters a harsh
environment. The present invention also teaches that a remote vent
is not necessary when the hydration system is used in casual or
normal situations.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The above-discussed problems and other problems with prior
hydration systems are overcome by the human hydration system of the
present invention. The present invention details a hydration system
where a rigid or semi rigid reservoir is used and transported at an
elevation significantly lower than the mouth operated liquid
dispenser. In this situation liquid in the liquid dispenser and
liquid tube tries to equalize with liquid in the reservoir. If
liquid returns to the rigid reservoir during use the user must
expend energy and time sucking the liquid through the tube to the
liquid dispenser multiple times. This can be frustrating and time
consuming when the user requires liquid. The mouth operated liquid
dispenser must be able to maintain liquid in the liquid tube and
liquid dispenser. Liquid must also be able to be returned to the
reservoir at any desired time especially when encountering
conditions such as a freezing environment or desert conditions.
This prevents the liquid from freezing in the liquid tube or from
becoming over heated. Hydration systems that incorporate inline
check valves and one way valves cannot do this.
[0016] The present invention has a vent to a container that is
remote to the container itself. This allows the container to be
placed or transported in a harsh environment and the air returning
to the container will be separate from the environment of the
container. This helps assure that the liquid will not become
contaminated while the container is in a harsh environment. These
conditions only exist in the most rugged of environments and to
individuals that explore these regions. The present invention is
intended for the harshest of conditions, as well as, casual users
on daily hikes. Casual users will probably never encounter severe
changing environmental conditions so in this situation a remote
vent is not necessary. A vent near the rigid container is
sufficient in average environmental conditions but the performance
of the hydration system and liquid dispenser is critical in all
systems. The present invention is intended to satisfy the needs of
the most rugged of environmental conditions to the casual user
without compromising performance on any level.
[0017] The present invention utilizes a filtered passive,
non-mechanical, vent. This type of venting is easier to clean and
maintain and adds less resistance to the overall system. Mechanical
vents generally include check valves and, as shown earlier, check
valves add resistance to any fluid system. The remote vent is a
flexible tube that enters the container on one end and the other
end is positioned some distance away from the container. The remote
vent tube creates a passage for air to return to the container as
liquid is removed.
[0018] Any fluid traveling through an enclosed passage such as a
tube or opening encounters resistance from the walls of the tube
and a micro layer of fluid that does not flow with the fluid but
remains stationary with the passage wall. The resistance depends on
characteristics of the fluid, passage wall and the diameter and
length of the tube. In the present invention it is preferred a
remote vent tube area is about 33% the area of the liquid tube. In
a vent that is attached directly to a container the resistance is
much less due to the length of the vent passage. It is preferred
that a container attached vent has a area of about 15% the area of
the liquid tube. It is preferred that moving air through a vent, or
vent tube, adds less than 5% total resistance to the system. It is
preferred that a passive vent is used in a rigid hydration system
where a pressure differential of less than 21/2 pounds per square
inch is required to draw liquid through the liquid dispenser from
the rigid container, creating a partial vacuum in the container
that pulls outside air through the vent into the container.
[0019] The reservoir of this invention includes a rigid or semi
rigid container that is made from hi-density polyethylene or other
material. The container includes a void or fill openings through
which liquid may enter the container for storage therein. This fill
void is covered by a removable lid. The lid is securely attached
and sealed to the containers fill void in a manner that prevents
fluid leakage from the interior of the container, for example by
the use of mating threads.
[0020] As used herein, the term closed, rigid, semi rigid and/or
hard container for a human hydration system is intended to mean a
container in which a partial vacuum is created when a user draws a
quantity of liquid out of the container: stated another way, a
closed container that does not collapse as liquid is withdrawn
therefrom. While conventional cylindrical-shaped containers will be
described, any container shape is usable with the invention,
including military flask-like canteens.
[0021] As used herein, the term remote vent, remote end of a vent
tube, for a human hydration system is intended to mean a vent, or
an end of a vent tube, that is separated by an interval from a hard
container, or is spaced from the container by a distance that is
greater than the usual amount. A distal end of a vent tube in
accordance with this invention is generally open to the ambient
atmosphere, and may include an air filter element. The distance
measured from this distal end of the vent tube to the fluid
containing container that is being vented varies in accordance with
specific usage. For example, the vent tube may be as short as
1.0-inch, or it may be on the order of a few feet in length.
Examples of vent tubes that are a few feet in length include an
arrangement in which the vent tube's distal end is attached to an
accessory article, such as a user's back pack, or when the vent
tube's distal end is placed within a gas mask that the user is
wearing.
[0022] Herein is an introduction to the performance of a mouth
operated liquid dispenser with a brief detail of force and weight
explained. A column of water with an area of 1 square inch and 27.7
inches high produces a weight of 1 pound. This can also be referred
to as 1 pound per square inch (1 psi) of pressure that is being
exerted on the 1 inch square portion of the column. If a 1 inch
square column of water is held stationary at a level of 27.7
inches, by a partial vacuum, then a negative force of 1 psi would
be required to hold the position of the liquid. A column of water
that has 1/4 square inch area and 27.7 inches high has a water
weight of 1/4 of a pound or 113.5 grams but the pressure would
equate to 1 psi. So every additional 27.7 inches of water height in
a tube equals an additional 1 pound per square inch.
[0023] The internal area of a liquid tube multiplied by its length
will provide a volume that can be equated into a weight that a
mouth operated liquid dispenser must hold in order for a liquid to
maintain a given level in a liquid dispenser or liquid tube. For
example; if a liquid tube has an internal diameter of 0.250" it has
a volume of 0.04908 square inch. Multiply the area by the tube
length, as an example 40 inches, 0.04908.times.40=1.9632 cubic
inches. In the previous paragraph it is shown that one pound of
water occupies a volume of 27.7 cubic inches. Therefore the weight
of water in the tube is (1.9632 divided by 27.7) 0.0708 pounds or
32.17 grams. The force exerted by this 40 inch column of water is
(40 divided by 27.7) 1.44 psi. The liquid dispenser of the present
invention will hold a negative 12 feet column of water in a 0.250"
diameter tube for over 24 hours. This equates to a water weight of
115.86 grams or a force of 5.19 pounds per square inch. Since 1
cubic centimeter has a volume of 1 gram of water, the liquid
dispenser held a volume of 115.8 cubic centimeters of water. If a
rigid container hydration system is mounted in a bicycle water
carrier the liquid tube may reach 60 inches in length. To maintain
a water level in a liquid dispenser of the above example the liquid
dispenser must hold a negative static pressure of 2.17 psi.
[0024] In an embodiment of the invention, a relatively long,
internal, and hollow rigid tube is coupled to the underside of the
lid by means of a relatively short, intermediate, and pliable
hollow tube. These two tubes are connected in series, they extend
from the bottom of the lid inside the container, and the heavier
rigid tube is the lower of the two tubes in this series tube
connection. The rigid tube and its series joined pliable tube have
a total assembled length that is slightly shorter than the
corresponding internal depth of the container. The rigid tube is
selected to have a mass or weight that causes the relatively short
pliable tube to flex and bend when the container is tilted off
axis. This construction allows the rigid tube to pivot or move off
axis, so as to reach the lowest area of the container reservoir, in
the event that the axis of the generally tubular shaped container
is tilted or rotated to a non vertical position.
[0025] At the internal lid location whereat the top end of the
pliable tube couples with the underside of the lid, a first
passageway is provided through the lid to allow liquid to pass
through the lid from the container. The lid also includes a second
opening or passageway that allows ambient pressure air to pass from
outside the container to the inside of the container. This second
opening has an external hollow vent tube attached thereto on top or
outside of the lid. A container internal vent tube may also be
connected to this second passageway on the underside of the lid,
although this tube is not required. When such an internal vent tube
is provided, the tube's lower end, inside the container, is
positioned near the top of the container, rather than at or near
the bottom of the container.
[0026] Two externally-extending hollow tubes comprising a liquid
tube and a vent tube are attached to the two above-described lid
passageways that are on the top or outside of the lid. The bottom
end, or lid end of the liquid tube, is attached to the first lid
passageway, this first passageway also being coupled to the
serially-arranged pliable tube and rigid tube that extend generally
to or near the bottom of the container. The bottom end, or lid end,
of the vent tube is coupled to the second lid opening or
passageway.
[0027] A mouth operated liquid dispenser is attached to the top end
of the liquid tube that is attached to the end of the liquid tube
that is located opposite of the container. A filter containing a
cap or member is positioned on the top end of the vent tube, again
this top end of the vent tube being the tube end that is opposite
the container. In an embodiment of the invention, the vent tube and
the liquid tube are both flexible, both extend along a common path,
and they are physically joined, bound together, or connected
together, along a majority portion of the length of the two
tubes.
[0028] The mouth operated liquid dispenser of a human hydration
system, in accordance with this invention, is attached to the
flexible liquid tube and to the vent tube at the top end of the two
tubes, that is the end that is opposite the container reservoir.
The mouth operated liquid dispenser is constructed and arranged to
be placed in the user's mouth, and liquid is drawn from the
interior of the container to the user by the liquid dispenser being
deformed by way of a biting action.
[0029] A pliant section or member of the liquid dispenser includes
a first internal cavity defined by four side wall members an open
inlet side and an enclosing wall opposite the inlet side. The inlet
wall has a generally flat inner surface facing the cavity and two
angled planes on the exterior surface. The angled planes form a
truss shape to the outer surface of the enclosing wall. A slit
through the enclosing wall forms a passage which liquid or air can
flow when the liquid dispenser is deformed by a biting action on
opposing side wall members. Liquid can then be drawn from the
interior of the first cavity, and from the hard liquid container,
to the user's mouth by the user sucking to create negative pressure
within the container. Air can also be drawn into the interior of
the first cavity which will cause the liquid to return to the hard
container by deforming the liquid dispenser breaking the slit
seal.
[0030] The above-mentioned pliant member preferably also includes a
second cavity that removably receives a relatively small air filter
element, this second cavity including open slits or openings that
communicate to the ambient air that surrounds a portion of the
pliant member that is external to, but relatively close to, the
user's mouth.
[0031] In an embodiment of the invention, the liquid dispenser
preferably includes a rigid member having two generally parallel
through passageways. The lower end of this rigid member mounts the
upper end of the fluid tube in communication with the passageway of
the rigid member in a relatively permanent manner, and also mounts
the upper end of the vent tube in communication with the second
passageway in a relatively permanent manner. The upper end of this
rigid member removably receives the above-mentioned pliant mouth
piece, and when the pliant mouthpiece is so mounted thereon, the
first passageway is placed in communication with the first cavity
of the pliant mouthpiece and the second passageway is placed in
communication with the second cavity of the pliant mouthpiece.
[0032] The pliant member within the liquid dispenser of this
invention also includes a generally annular physical stop member
that protrudes from the pliant member, and that operates to prevent
inserting the pliant member either too far or too shallow into the
user's mouth, thus insuring proper operation of the liquid
dispenser. This protruding stop member is also designed to increase
the sealing of the user's lips to the liquid dispenser, this end
result being extremely important in cold and dirty environments.
The protruding stop member is also designed to prevent accidental
swallowing of the liquid dispenser, such as may occur in the case
of a sudden trauma, such as a bicycle accident or a hiking/skiing
fall.
[0033] In an embodiment of the invention, the above-described
liquid dispenser consists of two plastic members, one being a
pliable member and the other being a rigid member. The pliable
member provides a section or cavity that houses the air filter, as
well as a mouth piece section that is adapted to be placed in the
mouth of the user. The rigid member is constructed to enable the
above-described fluid tube and vent tube to be joined thereto. The
pliable member is removably coupled to the rigid member and its
fluid tube, so that the pliant member can be easily removed from
the rigid member; for example, for cleaning, maintenance, and
filter replacement. In addition, since the pliant mouth member is
easily removed from the rigid member, each user may have his or her
own pliant mouth member, if common use of the mouth member by a
number of individuals is not desirable.
[0034] Another advantage of the passive vent of the present
invention is that the remote vent of this invention allows a hard
container hydration system to be used in conditions in which prior
hard container hydration systems with a lid vent, with a near
container vent, cannot be used. Conditions of the type wherein the
present invention finds utility are on the carrier of a mountain
bike that is being used in muddy conditions, being positioned deep
inside a backpack, and being positioned on a waist pack of
firefighters or in biological or chemical hazardous situations,
where the above-described liquid dispenser on the top of the liquid
tube and the above-described air filter vent on the top of the vent
tube can both be located within a sealed face mask of an individual
firefighter, etc.
[0035] Another advantage of the hydration system of the present
invention is that its hard container will not leak or puncture,
which is common in bladder-type hydration systems. Yet another
advantage is that the container of the present invention is capable
of carrying different liquids, because the container is easily
washed, and the material from which the container is made does not
absorb the constituents of the liquid that is within the container.
One such non-water fluid may be a carbohydrate drink that is used
to replenish fluids, carbohydrates and minerals. In accordance with
the spirit and scope of this invention, the four top ends of two
liquid tubes and two vent tubes may be run into, or near, the mouth
of the user as the opposite ends of the four tubes run into two
different containers; for example, one liquid tube and one vent
tube to a water container, and a second liquid tube and a second
vent tube to a container that holds a carbo-loading liquid or
drink.
[0036] Cleaning the human hydration system of this invention is as
easy as placing it into a dishwasher or a sink. The hydration
system of the present invention is not readily susceptible to
outside trauma, puncture, or compression. The weight carrying
impact on the user is minimized since this system can easily be
balanced and transported at the user's waist instead of on the
back, thus reducing spinal column compression.
[0037] Other objects, features, and advantages of the human
hydration system of the present invention will become clear with
reference of the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in
which they are illustrated and described preferred embodiments of
the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a human
hydration system of the present invention, this embodiment having a
unitary fluid tube and vent tube that extend from a fluid container
lid to a mouthpiece that houses an air filter for the vent
tube.
[0039] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the human hydration
system shown in FIG. 1.
[0040] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the unitary fluid tube
and vent tube of FIGS. 1 and 2, taken at line 3-3 of FIG. 2.
[0041] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a
human hydration system of the present invention wherein the fluid
tube and the vent tube comprise individual tubes that are not
joined along their respective lengths, and where a second type of
fluid tube is provided internal of the fluid container.
[0042] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
human hydration system of the present invention wherein a fluid
tube and a vent tube extends from the bottom of the fluid
container.
[0043] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a coaxially arranged
fluid tube and vent tube for use in embodiments of this
invention.
[0044] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another manner of binding a
fluid tube and a vent tube together, externally of the fluid
container, in accordance with the invention.
[0045] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a mouth-operated liquid
dispenser for use in embodiments of this invention.
[0046] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the liquid dispenser of
FIG. 8, this view showing a pliant mouthpiece and a rigid member,
with the pliant mouthpiece mounting the mouthpiece on one end, and
with the pliant mouthpiece mounting the fluid tube and the vent
tube at the other end.
[0047] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the FIG. 2 embodiment
of this invention wherein the axis of the generally cylindrical
fluid container has been tilted or rotated to illustrate the fact
that lower rigid fluid tube pivots by a flexing action of the upper
pliable fluid tube.
[0048] FIG. 11 is a partial cross section of another embodiment of
an internal fluid tube having a corrugated and flexible upper
portion that is for use in embodiments of this invention.
[0049] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the liquid
dispenser of FIG. 8, this view showing the rigid member that mounts
the pliant mount piece member, and this view also showing the air
filter removed from the pliant mouth piece member.
[0050] FIG. 13 shows the present invention as used by a hiker or
athlete in conjunction with a lumbar pack worn around the
waist.
[0051] FIG. 14 is a view of FIG. 9 showing the mouth operated
liquid dispensing face flexing under internal negative pressure
whereas the through slit seal increases.
[0052] FIG. 15 shows another preferred embodiment of a mouth
operated liquid dispenser of the present invention of FIG. 9.
[0053] FIG. 16 shows another embodiment of a mouth operated liquid
dispenser of the present invention of FIG. 9.
[0054] FIG. 17 shows another embodiment of a mouth operated liquid
dispenser of the present invention of FIG. 9.
[0055] FIG. 18 shows another embodiment of a mouth operated liquid
dispenser of the present invention of FIG. 15. In this view the
liquid dispensing face of the liquid dispenser is rotated
90.degree. to previous views.
[0056] FIG. 19 shows another preferred embodiment of the present
invention of FIG. 1. In this view the vent is proximal to the
reservoir container and an independent liquid tube extends away
from the container.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0057] Referring first to FIGS. 1 and 2, a human hydration system
in accordance with this invention is generally referred to at 20.
Hydration system 20 includes a hard, or rigid and hollow container
or reservoir 22, generally in the shape of a cylinder, but without
limitation thereto, having an closed bottom, and open top, and a
generally vertically-extending central axis 120. A lid or cap 24
includes internal threads that mate with external threads that are
provided on the cylindrical top portion of container 20. A rigid or
generally inflexible and hollow liquid tube 26 and a flexible or
pliant and hollow joining tube 28 are connected in fluid flow
series. This series connected tube 26/28 is located internal of
container 22, and is connected to the underside of a first lid
passageway 44. An external flexible, or pliant and hollow liquid
tube 30, and an external, flexible or pliant, and hollow vent tube
32 are respectively connected to the lid's first passageway, and to
a second lid passageway 46.
[0058] Liquid 34, for example water, is contained within the
reservoir that is formed by the interior cavity 36 of container 22.
Container 22 is made from a rigid material that is easily washed,
and will withstand the punishment of mountain biking, hiking,
running, and other physical activities. A preferred material for
use in making container 22 is a high density polyethylene, though
other materials can be used including, but not limited to aluminum,
glass, other rigid plastics or combination of plastics, fiberglass,
wood or any material that will retain its shape when the interior
cavity of container 22 is empty. Container 22 is hollow, having an
internal reservoir 36 and a top-disposed container filling void or
filling opening 38 through which fluid, or water, may pass into and
out of container 22.
[0059] Lid 24 is formed of a rigid plastic and it covers and seals
filling void 38 so that liquid 34 cannot leak out of container 22
through void 38. Lid 24 is coupled to close void 38 by way of
mating screw threads 39 that are located on the outer diameter of
cylindrical void protrusion 38 and on the inner diameter of lid 24.
If desired, a seal member (not shown) can be provided between lid
24 and the top surface of container 22 to further prevent
leakage.
[0060] Lid 24 includes a unique design that embodies two
passageways, a liquid passageway 44 and a vent or air vent
passageway 46 that pass through lid 24 from its top surface to its
bottom surface. Physically extending away from the outer lid
surface of cylindrical passageways 44, 46 are three generally
parallel rigid and hollow tubular extensions 48, 50 and 52. As seen
in FIG. 2, tubular extensions 48 and 50 extend upward from the top
surface of lid 24, whereas tubular extension 52 extends downward
from the bottom surface of lid 24. As seen, lower tube 52 forms an
extension of upper tube 48.
[0061] While not shown, vent passageway 46 may be closed by a
flexible flap valve that is located on the inner or bottom surface
of lid 24 so as to normally close vent passageway 46. The flex
characteristics of this flap valve are selected so that the valve
will open to allow air to pass into container 22 whenever a partial
vacuum is created within container 22, as by the user withdrawing a
quantity of fluid from the container for hydration purposes.
[0062] Tubular extensions 48, 50 and 52, respectively, physically
couple tubes 30, 32 and 28 to lid 24. Extensions 48 and 50 are
positioned on the top of lid 24 and completely seal to the inner
perimeter surface of tubes 30 and 32 to create a pressure fit that
firmly mounts and holds the tube assembly 30/32 to the top of lid
24. Extension 52 extends downward from the bottom of lid 24 into
the area of reservoir 36. Extension 52 firmly mounts and seals the
inner perimeter surface of tube 28 to create a pressure fit that
firmly holds tube 28 to the bottom of lid 24.
[0063] The shape of extensions 48, 50 and 52 is such that tubes 30,
32 and 28 fit tightly over the extensions in such a manner that no
air or fluid can penetrate the extension to tube fitting. These
extensions can, if desired, be formed as independent pieces, or
members, but preferably extensions 48, 50, 52 are extensions that
are formed integrally with lid 24, and that have a cross-sectional
shape that is consistent with the cross-sectional shape of the
tubing is firmly held in place relative to cap 24. A liquid
dispenser 60 that is unique to the present invention is joined to
the top ends of tubes 30 and 32, that is the tube ends that are
located opposite lid 24.
[0064] Container internal pliable joining tube 28 is preferably
made of a thin flexible material, preferably Poly vinyl Chloride.
Preferably, tube 28 has an annular or circular cross section that
creates a pressure fit over circular cross section extension 52.
Similarly, container internal rigid liquid tube 26 has an annular
or circular cross section, thus enabling the lower end of joining
tube 28 to be stretched so as to create a pressure fit over the top
and outer diameter top portion of rigid liquid tube 26, as
shown.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 3, tubes 30 and 32 are shown as being
integrally formed or extruded as a single member that is made of a
flexible material, such as Poly vinyl Chloride. Tubes 30, 32 may be
integrally formed or joined together as shown in FIG. 3, or
alternatively, the two tubes 30, 32 may be made from separate
tubing and be placed in a generally coaxial configuration as shown
in FIG. 6, or the two tubes 30, 32 may be held together by the use
of a woven metal or plastic sheath 63 as shown in FIG. 7.
[0066] FIG. 3 shows a preferred embodiment of joined liquid tube 30
and vent tube 32 along the major length of the two tubes. As
discussed, and as is shown in FIG. 2, annular openings at the
bottom ends of tubes 30 and 32 firmly fit over extensions 48 and
50.
[0067] FIGS. 4 and 5 show cross-sectional views of two alternate
embodiments to a human hydration system 20 in accordance with this
invention.
[0068] FIG. 4 depicts a liquid tube 30 and air vent tube 32 that
are independent of each other along the majority of their tube
lengths. FIG. 4 also depicts an alternate embodiment of a pliable
joining tube 28 of FIG. 2 wherein the top portion of a joining tube
128 is corrugated in shape, and is formed as a separate part, or
integrally with, a relatively rigid liquid tube 126. Mouth operated
liquid dispenser 60 is seen attached to liquid tube 30. As
previously described liquid dispenser 60 generally consiste of a
rigid member and a pliable member. In this view liquid dispenser 60
is comprised of a pliable member only attached to liquid tube 30.
The rigid member, as described in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, is utilized
when vent tube 32 and liquid tube 32 share a common end point.
[0069] FIG. 5 shows an alternate attachment location of the liquid
and vent tube assembly 30/32 to the bottom surface of container 22,
using the general tubular extension arrangement above described
with reference to FIG. 2. In the FIG. 5 embodiment, both vent tube
32 and liquid tube 30 are attached to the bottom of container 22.
It will be appreciated that this attachment position could also be
at any location on the side wall of container 22.
[0070] FIG. 6 shows the use of two separate tubes 30 and 32 in a
coaxial configuration wherein a smaller tube is threaded through a
larger tube. Since the two tubes are dissimilar in diameter, one
tube can be positioned in the internal void of the other tube. The
internally-placed tube has a small outer diameter that allows a
tubular shaped void to exist between the internal surface of the
large diameter tube and external surface of the small diameter
tube. Either the internal tube or the external tube can be used to
draw liquid out of container 22, as the other tube operates as an
air vent. However, it is preferred that internal tube 30 operate to
draw liquid from container 22.
[0071] FIG. 7 is a view of two separate tubes 30/32 wherein the two
tubes are joined by the use of a joining means, such as a woven
metal or plastic sheath 63, that physically joins the two separate
tubes 30/32 into a unitary tube assembly.
[0072] FIGS. 8 and 9 shows a preferred embodiment of the current
invention and is best described viewing these figures collectively.
FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of the mouth operated liquid
dispenser, denoted as 60, of the current invention and FIG. 9 shows
a cross sectional view of FIG. 8 as viewed by arrows denoted as
9-9.
[0073] Mouth operated liquid dispenser 60 is made up of two
portions, a pliable portion 62 and a rigid composition member 64.
Pliant member 62 is relatively flexible and can be stretched so
that pliant member 62 can be releasably coupled to rigid member 64.
Member 62 contains a first receptacal or cavity area 66 that
receives liquid from liquid tube 30, and a second receptacle or
cavity area 68 that releasably receives a small air filter
element.
[0074] Annular extensions 116 and 118 extend parallel to each other
from rigid member 64. Extension 116 couples with liquid tube 30
forming a seal with the internal surface of liquid tube 30 and
annular ridges 112 extending from extension 116. Extension 118
couples with vent tube 32 forming a seal with internal surface of
vent tube 32 and annular ridges 114 extending from extension 118.
Annular extension 116 forms passage 108 which joins passage 120 of
annular extension 121, both in rigid member 64, creating a flow
route for liquid from liquid tube 30 to cavity 66. Annular
extension 118 forms passage 110, of rigid member 64, which permits
communication between vent tube 32 and air filter cavity 68 in
pliable member 62. Pliable member 62 contains through slot 86,
which allows air vent cavity 68 to communicate with air outside of
pliant member 62. Pliable member 62 releasably seals to rigid
member 64 with elliptical sealing members 96, 98, 102 and 104 of
extension 121 and elliptical members 100 and 106. It should be
noted that when vent tube 32 and liquid tube 30 do not share a
common distal end then rigid member 64 is not required and pliable
member 62 may attach directly to liquid tube 30.
[0075] Elliptical tactile stop member 90 comprises surface 92 and
94. Surface 92 contacts a user's mouth stopping over insertion of
the mouth operable section forming cavity 66 in pliant member 62.
The mouth operable section, denoted collectively as 89, is the
portion of pliant member 62 that is inserted into a user's mouth
and deformed with a biting action allowing either liquid to flow
from the liquid container through liquid dispenser 60 or outside
air to flow into liquid dispenser 60 into the liquid container.
Section 89 is composed of four wall members and top liquid
dispensing wall member. Wall members 70 and 72 can be seen opposing
wall members 74 and 76. Outer surface 78 and 80 of top liquid
dispensing wall member joins and extends from wall members 70 and
72, respectfully. Surface 78 and 80 are angled outward in a
truss-like manner joining flat surface members 81 and 82. Bisecting
surface 81 and 82 is through slit 83. Through slit 83 establishes
communication from outside of member 62 with cavity 66.
[0076] Section 89 is shown in a relaxed state with no outside
forces acting upon the section. The inner surface of liquid
dispensing wall member consist of surface 84 and 85. Surface 84 and
85 define the top surface of cavity 66 and are separated by through
slit 83. Surface 84 contains void 87 and surface 85 contains void
88. Void 87 and 88 are positioned parallel to through slit 83 and
creates a weakened area in the liquid dispensing wall member. This
weakened area creates hinge points from which the liquid dispensing
wall member can pivot about increasing the closure seal of through
slit 83. FIG. 14 shows section 89 under negative stress and further
explains sealing of through slit 83.
[0077] FIGS. 10 and 11 show two alternate methods of providing
flexible and weighted liquid tubes at the interior of container 22.
In FIG. 10, a single flexible liquid tube 132 is interior of
container 22, and the weight of tube 132 causes the lower open end
of the tube to drop into the liquid 134 within container 22 when
the container is tilted off axis. In FIG. 11, a single rigid tube
140 includes a top portion 141 that is made flexible by corrugation
of a short section of the tube. Again, the weight of tube 140
causes the lower open end of the tube to drop into the liquid that
is within container 22 when the container is tilted off axis. Both
the FIG. 10 configuration and the FIG. 11 configuration provide
that liquid will be drawn from container 22 regardless of the
non-vertical orientation of the container.
[0078] FIG. 12 shows an exploded perspective view of a mouth
operated liquid dispenser 60. Pliable member 62 and rigid member 64
may now be clearly viewed. Air filter 88 can be seen outside of
cavity 86 (not seen). Through passage 120 and 108 for liquid
communication to cavity 66 (not seen) can be viewed, as can passage
110 for vent air return.
[0079] FIG. 13 shows the current invention being worn by a hiker or
athlete. This view shows container 22 positioned on the hip of the
user and lid member 24 secured to container 22. Liquid tube 30 and
vent tube 32 are seen traveling up the length of a user's torso
connecting to mouth operated liquid dispenser 60. As seen, liquid
level 34 in container 22 is significantly lower than liquid level
142 in liquid tube 30 close to liquid dispenser 60. The distance
denoted as "X" shows a distance that liquid level 142 attempts to
equalize to liquid level 34. Distance "X" may also be equated to a
water weight and negative pressure that must be held by liquid
dispenser 60 to maintain liquid level 142.
[0080] FIG. 14 shows the liquid dispenser as viewed in FIG. 9 with
the exception section 89 is subjected to a negative static pressure
created by liquid attempting to return to the container as
described in FIG. 13. Only section 89 will be addressed, as all
previous descriptions of FIG. 9 remain constant. In section 89
within cavity 66 arrow denoted as "x" shows direction of negative
pressure. Surface 84 and 85 can be seen flexing about void 87 and
88, respectfully. In turn surface 78 and 81 pivot toward through
slit 83 and surfaces 80 and 82 pivots against each other, thus
enhancing the seal of through slit 83 preventing outside air from
entering through slit 83. Air entering through slit 83 under this
circumstance will cause liquid level 142, as described in FIG. 13,
to return to the container reservoir, which is undesirable. There
are circumstances where returning liquid to the container is
critical to the performance of the present invention and to the
user, as described in the preceding write up. Encountering these
circumstances, the user need only to break the through seal 83 by a
partial biting action on section 89. Air outside of pliable member
62 will enter through slit 83 occupying the area vacated of liquid
returning to the container.
[0081] FIG. 15 shows another preferred embodiment of FIG. 9 of the
present invention. Only section 89 will be addressed, as all
previous descriptions of FIG. 9 remain constant. Section 89 is seen
being placed under internal negative pressure as shown by arrow
denoted as "x" and described in FIG. 13. The inner surface of the
liquid dispensing wall member comprises surface 150 and 152
separated by through slit 83. Surfaces 150 and 152 are arcs inward
toward cavity 66. The outer surface of liquid dispensing wall
member comprises surfaces 154, 156, 158 and 160. Surface 154 and
156 arcs toward cavity 66 and surface 158 and 160 are positioned
furthest of all surfaces to cavity 66. Through slit 83 separates
surface 158 and 160. As internal negative pressure flexes liquid
dispensing wall member, surface 158 and 160 can be seen pivoting
against each other increasing seal of through slit 83. As described
in FIG. 14, this increased seal prevents liquid from returning to
the reservoir and by deforming section 89 compromising through slit
83 seal allowing air to enter cavity 66 as liquid moves in the
direction of the container. Once through slit 83 seal is returned
air will no longer enter cavity 66 and liquid level 142, as
described in FIG. 13, will be maintained at its current level in
liquid tube 30 or container 22.
[0082] FIG. 16 shows another embodiment of FIG. 9 of the present
invention. Only section 89 will be addressed, as all previous
descriptions of FIG. 9 remain constant. Section 89 is seen in a
relaxed state with no external forces present. The inner wall
surface of the liquid dispensing wall member comprises surface 162
and 164 separated by through slit 83. Surface 162 and 164 arcs
outward from cavity 66. Outer surface 166 and 168 arcs outward from
section 89 and is also bisected by through slit 83. Surface 166 and
168 will pivot against each other increasing the seal of through
slit 83 as negative internal pressure flexes the liquid dispensing
wall member inward toward cavity 66.
[0083] FIG. 17 shows another embodiment of FIG. 9 of the present
invention. Only section 89 will be addressed, as all previous
descriptions of FIG. 9 remain constant. Section 89 is seen in a
relaxed state with no external forces present. The inner surface of
the liquid dispensing wall member is flat and comprised of surface
170 and 172 separated by through slit 83. The external surface of
the liquid dispensing wall member comprises flat surface 174 and
176. Separating surface 174 and 176 as a member arced outwardly
from section 89. This arc is bisected by through slit 83 forming
arced surface 178 and 180. As section 89 is stressed by internal
negative pressure the liquid dispenser wall member will flex inward
toward cavity 66 and arced surface 178 and 180 will pivot against
each other increasing the seal of through slit 83.
[0084] FIG. 18 shows another possible variation to FIG. 15 with
section 89 positioned 90.degree. to the positioned as viewed in
FIG. 15 and as denoted by dash lines. The function of liquid
dispenser 60 is not compromised by positioning section 89 at any
angle from 0.degree. to 90.degree. from liquid tube 30. This
extended rotational range of section 89 shows versatility to liquid
dispenser 60 and under some situations will allow the user a more
comfortable position of liquid dispenser 60 to the mouth.
[0085] FIG. 19 shows an over view of the present invention as
designed for a casual user. Vent 43 is located in lid 24 and a
single tube 41 establishes fluidic communication between liquid in
rigid container 22 and liquid dispenser 60. Liquid dispenser 60 is
a pliable member attached directly to liquid tube 30. Though this
version is created to be used under mild environmental conditions
where a remote vent would not be necessary the performance of
liquid dispenser 60 must function equally as well in maintaining
liquid at any level in liquid tube 41.
[0086] It is well known that evacuation of liquid from a container
tends to create a temporary partial vacuum within the container
with this vacuum subsequently depleted by air flow into the
interior of the container. As used in relation to containers in the
claims hereinafter, the term "rigid" shall mean the characteristic
of a material that allows a container made therefrom to not be
totally collapsible upon evacuation of liquid from the container so
that an air pocket is formed in at least a portion of the interior
of the container. Thus, while it is acceptable but not mandatory to
fabricate the container from a material which is totally
inflexible, the container could be fabricated of a material that
permits the container to partially collapse.
[0087] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been
disclosed and discussed in detail, this detailed discussion is not
to be considered as a limitation on the invention, but is only
exemplary thereof. Accordingly, the invention should not be limited
by the above disclosure, but only by the claims.
* * * * *