U.S. patent application number 10/987322 was filed with the patent office on 2005-04-28 for compartmentalized storage system for temporarily storing and subsequently mixing at least two different substances.
Invention is credited to Berido, Colin, Jones, Keith Anthony, Richards, Randall G..
Application Number | 20050087458 10/987322 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34527441 |
Filed Date | 2005-04-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050087458 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Richards, Randall G. ; et
al. |
April 28, 2005 |
Compartmentalized storage system for temporarily storing and
subsequently mixing at least two different substances
Abstract
The present invention is directed to a compartmentalized storage
system for temporarily storing and subsequently mixing at least two
different substances. The compartmentalized storage system
comprises a first storing compartment, with an optional a tearable
seal, containing a solid sorbing substrate, such as a wipe, and a
first substance. The compartmentalized storage system further
comprises a second storing compartment having a second substance.
The first and the second compartments are attached to each other by
at least one common side, which common side comprises a frangible
seal connecting the first and the second compartments. By applying
force to the frangible seal, the seal will break and thereby allow
the second substance in the second storing compartment to be mixed
with the solid sorbing substrate and the first substance in the
first storing compartment.
Inventors: |
Richards, Randall G.;
(Canton, GA) ; Jones, Keith Anthony; (Lynchburg,
VA) ; Berido, Colin; (Bagshot, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RICHARD R. MUCCINO
758 SPRINGFIELD AVENUE
SUMMIT
NJ
07901
US
|
Family ID: |
34527441 |
Appl. No.: |
10/987322 |
Filed: |
November 12, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10987322 |
Nov 12, 2004 |
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10002892 |
Dec 5, 2001 |
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6697549 |
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10987322 |
Nov 12, 2004 |
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10002972 |
Oct 26, 2001 |
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6866145 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
206/219 ;
206/221 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 13/17 20130101;
F24V 30/00 20180501; B65D 81/3266 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/219 ;
206/221 |
International
Class: |
B65D 025/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 31, 2000 |
GB |
0026605.6 |
Claims
1-19. (canceled)
20. A compartmentalized storage system for temporarily storing and
subsequently mixing at least two different edible substances
comprising: (a) a first storing compartment having a front and a
back, a plurality of sides, defining a first cavity portion, and a
tearable seal, wherein a first edible substance is stored in the
first storing compartment; and (b) a second storing compartment
having a front and a back and a plurality of sides, defining a
second cavity portion, wherein a second edible substance is stored
in the second storing compartment; wherein the first and the second
compartments are attached to each other by at least one common
side, which common side comprises a frangible seal connecting the
first and the second compartments, wherein the tearable seal and
the frangible seal are located adjacent to each other such that
pressure to open the tearable seal will break the frangible seal
and thereby allow the second edible substance in the second storing
compartment to be mixed with the first edible substance in the
first storing compartment.
21. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 19,
wherein the first and second edible substances are both liquid.
22. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 19,
wherein the first edible substance is solid and the second edible
substance is liquid.
23. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 19,
wherein the first edible substance is liquid or solid and the
second edible substance is gaseous.
24. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 19,
wherein the first and second edible substances are substantially
non-compatible.
25. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 24,
wherein the first and second edible substances are substantially
non-compatible such that mixing the edible substances causes an
exothermic or endothermic reaction.
26. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 24,
wherein the first and second substances are substantially
non-compatible such that mixing the substances causes a foaming
reaction.
27. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 24,
wherein the first and second substances are substantially
non-compatible such that mixing the substances causes a color
changing reaction.
28. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 24,
wherein the first and second substances are substantially
non-compatible such that mixing the substances causes a fragrance
or flavor changing reaction.
29. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 24,
wherein the first edible substance is an oil phase and the second
edible substances is an aqueous phase.
30. The compartmentalized storage system according to claim 24,
wherein the first edible substance is milk and the second edible
substances is dry cereal.
31-34. (canceled)
35. A method for using a compartmentalized storage system to
temporarily store and subsequently mix at least two different
edible substances comprising the steps of: (A) providing a
compartmentalized storage system for temporarily storing and
subsequently mixing at least two different edible substances
comprising: (a) a first storing compartment having a front and a
back, a plurality of sides, defining a first cavity portion, and a
tearable seal, wherein a first edible substance is stored in the
first storing compartment; and (b) a second storing compartment
having a front and a back and a plurality of sides, defining a
second cavity portion, wherein a second edible substance is stored
in the second storing compartment; wherein the first and the second
compartments are attached to each other by at least one common
side, which common side comprises a frangible seal connecting the
first and the second compartments, wherein the tearable seal and
the frangible seal are located adjacent to each other such that
pressure to open the tearable seal will break the frangible seal
and thereby allow the second edible substance in the second storing
compartment to be mixed with the first edible substance in the
first storing compartment; (B) applying force to the frangible seal
to break the seal and thereby allow the second edible substance in
the second storing compartment to be mixed with the first edible
substance in the first storing compartment; (C) applying force to
the tearable seal to break the seal; and (D) removing the first
edible substance mixed with the second edible substance through the
broken tearable seal in the first storing compartment.
36. (canceled)
37. The method according to claim 35, wherein the first and second
edible substances are both liquid.
38. The method according to claim 35, wherein the first edible
substance is solid and the second edible substance is liquid.
39. The method according to claim 35, wherein the first edible
substance is liquid or solid and the second edible substance is
gaseous.
40. The method according to claim 35, wherein the first and second
edible substances are substantially non-compatible.
41. The method according to claim 40, wherein the first and second
edible substances are substantially non-compatible such that mixing
the edible substances causes an exothermic or endothermic
reaction.
42. The method according to claim 40, wherein the first and second
substances are substantially non-compatible such that mixing the
substances causes a foaming reaction.
43. The method according to claim 40, wherein the first and second
substances are substantially non-compatible such that mixing the
substances causes a color changing reaction.
44. The method according to claim 40, wherein the first and second
substances are substantially non-compatible such that mixing the
substances causes a fragrance or flavor changing reaction.
Description
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/002,972, filed 26 Oct. 2001.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is directed to a compartmentalized
storage system for temporarily storing and subsequently mixing at
least two different substances. The compartmentalized storage
system comprises a first storing compartment having a front and a
back, and a plurality of sides, defining a first cavity portion.
The first storing compartment may optionally include a tearable
seal. A solid sorbing substrate, such as a wipe, and a first
substance are stored in the first storing compartment. The
compartmentalized storage system further comprises a second storing
compartment having a front and a back and a plurality of sides,
defining a second cavity portion. A second substance is stored in
the second storing compartment. The first and the second
compartments are attached to each other by at least one common
side, which common side comprises a frangible seal connecting the
first and the second compartments. By applying force to the
frangible seal, the seal will break and thereby allow the second
substance in the second storing compartment to be mixed with the
solid sorbing substrate and the first substance in the first
storing compartment. The present invention is also directed to a
compartmentalized storage system for temporarily storing and
subsequently mixing at least two different edible substances. The
present invention is further directed to methods for using the
compartmentalized storage systems to temporarily store and
subsequently mix at least two different substances.
DESCRIPTION OF THE BACKGROUND
[0003] Various forms of impregnated nonwoven fabrics are available
for performing a wide variety of tasks such as cleaning hands and
other areas of the body, cleaning hard surfaces, and delivering
active agents to various surfaces. Such fabrics are marketed as
wipes and are ready for use either in individual packet form or in
bulk form in suitable dispensers from which the individual wipes
can be withdrawn as needed. Compartmented containers, with or
without wipes, are known in the art.
[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 4,185,754 (Julius) discloses a disposable
moisture impermeable limp-pack package for containing and
dispensing moisture impregnated towelettes. The package comprises a
thin sheet of limp-pack flexible material having an opening which
is hermetically sealed defining a container completely enclosing
the towelettes. A cap for the opening in the flexible material
provides a moisture impermeable resealable closure for accessing
and removing the towelettes contained in the package. The cap
includes a resealable cap, a hinge, and a circumferential collar.
The hinge attaches the cap to the circumferential collar. The
collar is mounted on the thin sheet of flexible material at the
opening to provide a moisture impermeable seal.
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 4,335,731 (Bora, Jr.) discloses a disposable
dental wipe for dental hygiene adapted to be wrapped around a
finger for better sensitivity and pressure control against the
teeth and gums. The disposable dental wipe comprises a flexible
honeycombed flat sheet of soft foam material having outer and inner
faces and formed of a flexible resilient material. Bristles
integral with the material extend outwardly from the outer face of
the sheet. A stripe of contact adhesive is mounted on the sheet for
securing the material when it is wrapped around a finger. The sheet
is impregnated with a dentifrice which flows through the sheet upon
application of pressure with the finger against the teeth and gums.
The disposable dental wipe may be wrapped around a finger and may
be directed and pressed by the finger in between teeth, in back of
a row of teeth, and against gums and teeth with finger sensitivity
to provide a positive wiping force.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 4,550,855 (Harrison) discloses a moist
towelette dispenser package containing a supply of moist towelettes
in a continuous zigzag folded web and separated by perforations.
The package comprises an envelope having a towelette holding
portion and a closure flap portion separated from one another by a
transverse fold line. The envelope is formed from an upper and a
lower sheet of flexible, moisture-impervious material. The sheets
are of the same overall outer dimensions and sealed to one another
around the outer edges. The upper sheet has an adhesive area and a
dispensing opening positioned on the flap portion. The dispensing
opening and adhesive area are located equidistant from the fold
line so that when the flap portion is folded over the towelette
holding portion along the fold line, the opening is completely
sealed by the adhesive area against the towelette holding portion.
The perforations in the folded web provide for separation of each
towelette from the supply so that, on withdrawal and separation of
each towelette, the end of the next towelette in the web is left
entirely within the envelope package.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 4,615,937 (Bouchette) discloses an
antimicrobially active, non-woven web comprising bonded fibers, a
binder distributed on the fibers, and an antimicrobial agent
distributed on the fibers. The antimicrobial agent is substantive
to the fibers and to the binder when the web is either wet or dry
to prevent the antimicrobial agent from diffusing from the fibers
or the binder.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 4,896,768 (Anderson) discloses a presaturated
wipe product for applying an active disinfectant solution to a work
surface. The wipe product comprises a first layer of packaging
material, a second layer of packaging material, a pad secured to
the second layer, and a dilute glutaraldehyde solution impregnated
in the pad for providing disinfecting activity to the pad. The
first layer and the second layer are heat sealed to each other to
form a sealed envelope for maintaining the presaturated pad. The
presaturated pad is irradiated after the first and second layers
are heat sealed so that the envelopes maintain disinfecting
activity for the glutaraldehyde over an extended period of
time.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 4,904,524 (Yoh) discloses a porous sheet
impregnated with an aqueous lotion comprising a hydrophobic
functional ingredient entrapped in polymeric beads. The entrapped
ingredient is concentrated near the surface of the sheet.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,152,996 (Corey et al.) discloses a
moistened, fibrous flexible nonwoven sheet material. The nonwoven
sheet material consists essentially of cellulosic fibers
impregnated with an aqueous composition comprising a zinc acetate
peroxide complex and from 0.1% to 1.0% by weight of a surfactant
selected from the group consisting of a 1:1 mixture by weight of
N-alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride and N-alkyl
dimethylethylbenzyl ammonium chloride; N-alkylbenzene sulfonates
sodium salt, wherein alkyl has an average of 11 carbon atoms;
cocoamphocarboxypropionate; and lauryl diethanolamine oxide.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 5,368,581 (Smith et al.) discloses a method
for applying dermatological agents to the skin from a single
dispensing and applicator system. The method comprises providing a
dispensing and applicator system having a flexible moisture
impermeable support sheet. Applicator pads are affixed in a
separated array to one surface of the support sheet. Each of the
pads is impregnated with a composition comprising a different
dermatological agent. The support sheet and pads are folded to
enclose the pads. The opposing peripheral surfaces of the support
sheet are sealed together to form a compartment containing the pads
and are defined by a continuous peripheral seal. The peripheral
seal is positioned inward from the edges of the sheets over a
portion of the opposed peripheral surfaces to form two opposed
flanges. The opposing surfaces of the support sheet are together
between each of the pads to divide the compartment into
subcompartiments each containing one of the pads. The flanges are
manually grasped and separated to partially separate the two
opposed surfaces of the support sheet so that the pads are exposed.
The pads are contacted with the skin to release the compositions
simultaneously from the pads to apply a film of a mixture of the
agents on the skin.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 5,639,532 (Wells) discloses a multilayer
cleansing kit. The kit comprises a first absorbent layer, a second
absorbent layer impregnated with a cleaning solution, and an
impermeable liner between the first and second absorbent layers to
prevent the cleaning solution from passing from the second
absorbent layer to the first absorbent layer. The first and second
absorbent layers and the impermeable liner are laminated together
to form a unitary device. The first absorbent layer extends beyond
the second absorbent layer and the liner to form a flap can be
folded relative to the kit.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,744,150 (Cercone) discloses an antimicrobial
sponge material composition having a visual indication of an
antimicrobial activity. The antimicrobial sponge material
composition comprises a hydroxylated acetalized polyvinyl alcohol
complexed with iodine and plasticized with a polyol. The sponge
material composition has a yellow or gold colored surface and
releases free iodine from the surface and changes surface color
from a yellow or gold color to a black color upon surface contact
with an aqueous fluid, thereby providing a visual indication that
the antimicrobial activity of the sponge material composition has
been activated by releasing free iodine.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 5,771,522 (Carmody) discloses a dental hygiene
wipe comprising a flexible base substrate and an abrasive cleaning
means. The abrasive cleaning means coextensively covers an upper
surface of the flexible base substrate for abrasively cleaning
exterior surfaces and interproximal areas of human teeth. The base
substrate and the abrasive cleaning means are shaped so as to
define intersecting linear edges which define corners at
intersections of the linear edges. The corners are orthogonal
corners which can be utilized as a pick to clean along a juncture
of two adjacent teeth to clean debris from the juncture. The
abrasive cleaning means has a flexible layer of material secured to
the base substrate shaped to define raised quarter-spherical
projections. The quarter-spherical projections extend in aligned
rows and columns between the linear edges of the flexible base
substrate. The quarter-spherical projections are shaped so as to
define a semi-circular planar outer surface and a quarter-spherical
outer surface which define a quarter-spherical shape of the
projections. The semi-circular planar outer surface of each of the
projections is oriented to reside within a plane oriented
orthogonally relative to a plane containing the base substrate such
that the quarter-spherical injections provide both a first degree
of abrasion when moved in a first direction. The semi-circular
planar outer surface of each of the projections leads motion of the
abrasive cleaning means across a tooth, and a second degree of
abrasion when moved in a second direction. The semi-circular planar
outer surface of each of the projections follows the motion of the
abrasive cleaning means across a tooth. The first degree of
abrasion is greater than the second degree of abrasion.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 5,791,465 (Niki et al.) discloses a moist wipe
package comprising moist wipes and a storing body in which the
moist wipes are stored. The storing body is provided with an outlet
opening through which the moist wipes are withdrawn. The outlet
opening is covered with an opening- and closing-cover label
detachably attached to the storing body. The storing body has a
rectangular parallel-equipped body formed from a square sleeve
shaped packing material having open opposite ends. The outlet
opening is formed in one surface of the packing material. Opposing
side edge portions of the one surface and/or opposing side edge
portions of a surface opposite the one surface are made rigid so
that they exhibit self-supporting properties. The one and the
opposite surface are sealed together at the open opposite ends to
form sealed opposite ends. The sealed opposite ends are fixed so
that the one surface and the opposite surface form opposing two end
faces of the rectangular parallelepiped body.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 5,813,080 (Hendren) discloses a towel
structure comprising a towel formed in a first sleeve structure
having a first absorbency relative to water and having first and
second ends. A wipe is formed as a second sleeve structure having a
second absorbency different from the first absorbency and is
encompassed by the towel. A film is interposed between the towel
and the wipe to inhibit transfer of the water from the towel to the
wipe. A fastener fastens the towel, the wipe, and the film
together.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 5,868,245 (Alt) discloses a sterile package
for containment of a device to be inserted or implanted into the
body of a patient and thereby in contact with blood and tissue of
the body in a surgical or medical treatment procedure. The package
comprises a container, the device enclosed within the container to
maintain the sterility of the device during shipping, storage and
handling of the package prior to opening the container and at least
one swab impregnated with a solution of H.sub.2O.sub.2. The swab is
packaged in a separate sterile pack incorporated in the sterile
package and containing an adequate concentration of H.sub.2O.sub.2
in solution expressly for sterilizing the device upon wiping down
the device with the swab after removal of both the device and the
swab from the container prior to commencing the treatment
procedure. A further swab is packaged in an additional sterile pack
incorporated in the sterile package and impregnated with a solution
containing a neutralizing agent expressly for use in wiping down
the device after the wipe down with the first-mentioned swab to
neutralize the H.sub.2O.sub.2 before placing the device in contact
with blood and tissue of the body.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 5,871,763 (Luu et al.) discloses a substrate
such as a wipe treated with a nongreasy lotion comprising an
emollient and a retention/release agent. The lotion comprises a
delta H above about 37.degree. C. of about 10 calories/gram, a
total heat of melting of above about 25 calories/gram, and an onset
of melting temperature at least about 30.degree. C.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 5,897,856 (Trinh et al.) discloses an odor
absorbing wipe comprising a composition having from about 0.1% to
about 5% of solubilized, water-soluble uncomplexed cyclodextrin,
from about 0.01% to about 1% of low molecular weight polyols, and
an aqueous carrier. The composition is deposited on a wipe which
has a flexible dispensing means.
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 5,938,013 (Palumbo et al.) discloses a pack
having a body portion formed of flexible sheet material and
defining an article receiving cavity. The body portion comprises a
first end defined by an end wall and tapering to a second end
spaced apart from the first end. The body portion comprises a face
in which is defined a dispensing opening. A resealable sealing
member is secured to the body portion and, in a closing position,
covers the opening in sealing contact with the body portion around
the periphery of the opening. A plurality of sheet-form articles is
disposed within the cavity in the form of a flattenable roll, with
one end of the roll being capable of extending through the
opening.
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 5,942,214 (Lucas et al.) discloses a method of
controlling environmental malodors on skin. The method comprises
applying to skin a composition comprising from about 0.1% to about
5% of solubilized, water-soluble, uncomplexed cyclodextrin; an
aqueous carrier; from about 0.1% to about 36% of an oil phase
selected from the group consisting of emollients, moisturizers, and
skin protectants; a surfactant; and from about 0.004% to about 2%
of a hydrophilic, volatile perfume composition.
[0022] U.S. Pat. No. 5,971,138 (Soughan) discloses a toiletry roll
suitable to be mounted on the spindle of a dispenser. The roll
comprises envelopes formed of flexible polymeric moisture-resistant
film material and arrayed end-to-end to form a train of envelopes
each having a radially inner wall, a radially outer wall, and a
closure flap. The closure flap of each envelope is affixed to and
extends from one of the walls of the envelope and is folded
inwardly to envelope-closing position over and onto the exterior
side of the other of the walls of the envelope. The train is wound
on itself to form the roll. The closure flaps are held in
envelope-closing position by the wound configuration of the roll.
Each closure flap is, upon separation of its associated envelope
from the roll, either opening incident to the separation or being
readily openable by thumbing with-out peeling, tearing or unzipping
each envelope containing at least one removable flushable wipe
moistened with at least one skin-treating agent comprising skin
cleaner.
[0023] U.S. Pat. No. 6,007,264 (Koptis) discloses a container and
applicator combination. The combination comprises a container
having top and bottom surfaces and first and second ends. The top
and bottom surfaces have a length and width dimension defining a
surface area sufficient in size to receive the thumb of a hand. The
container may be gripped between the thumb and finger of a hand.
The length and width dimension are greater than the thickness
dimension between the top and bottom surfaces to define a
relatively thin appearance. The container includes a dispensing
outlet located at the second end. An applicator is attached to the
container to define a unitary one-piece structure. The applicator
comprises first and second wings, each of the wings being
integrally attached to and extending outwardly from the second end
of the container and being capable of being spread apart pivotally
in opposite directions over a wide arc. The first wing is located
to one side of the dispensing outlet and the second wing is located
to an opposite side of the dispensing outlet. The first wing
defines an applicator surface on an underside surface and the
second wing defines an applicator surface on an upperside
surface.
[0024] U.S. Pat. No. 6,028,018 (Amundson et al.) discloses a
multilayer wet wipe. The wipe comprises from about 150 to about
600% of a liquid based on the dry weight of the wipe; a first
nonwoven outer layer defining a first exterior surface of the wet
wipe; a second nonwoven outer layer positioned with the first outer
layer to define a second exterior surface of the wet wipe; and a
nonwoven inner layer positioned between the first outer layer and
the second outer layer. The outer layers comprise a first polymeric
fiber comprising at least about 35% of the outer layers and a
natural fiber comprising at least about 50% of the outer layers.
The inner layer comprises a second polymeric fiber wherein the
first and second polymeric fibers comprises different polymeric
materials.
[0025] U.S. Pat. No. 6,029,809 (Skiba et al.) discloses a patient
bathing system. The system comprises a sealed, flexible outer
package, a means for gaining access to the interior of the outer
package, and a washcloth for body cleansing disposed within the
outer package. The washcloth comprises a blended cloth comprising
first fibers and second fibers, with the quantity by weight of the
first fibers being greater than the quantity by weight of the
second fibers, and the blended cloth having an absorbency much
greater by weight than the weight of the blended cloth, and a
cleansing solution impregnating the blended cloth. The cleansing
solution is distributed throughout the blended cloth and generally
non-migratory unless disturbed such that the cleaning solution is
released from the blended cloth, with the quantity of the cleansing
solution being far less than the absorbency of the blended cloth
U.S. Pat. No. Des. 396,596 (Simon) discloses a personal care
textile article with a label. The ornamental design for a personal
care textile article with label is as shown and described in the
FIGS. 1-19.
[0026] As set out above, many types of compartmentalized storage
systems are known. However, these storage systems have not been
suitable to temporarily store and subsequently mix at least two
different substances, especially non-compatible substances. The
present invention provides such compartmentalized storage systems
to temporarily store and subsequently mix at least two different
substances.
IN THE FIGURES
[0027] FIG. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a compartmentalized
storage system to temporarily store and subsequently mix at least
two different substances in accord with the present invention. In
this embodiment, the first and the second compartments are attached
to each other by one common side.
[0028] FIG. 2 shows another preferred embodiment of a
compartmentalized storage system to temporarily store and
subsequently mix at least two different substances in accord with
the present invention. In this embodiment, the first and the second
compartments are attached to each other by two common sides.
[0029] FIG. 3 shows another preferred embodiment of a
compartmentalized storage system to temporarily store and
subsequently mix at least two different edible substances in accord
with the present invention. In this embodiment, the tearable seal
and the frangible seal are located adjacent to each other such that
pressure to open the tearable seal will break the frangible
seal.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0030] The present invention is directed to a compartmentalized
storage system for temporarily storing and subsequently mixing at
least two different substances comprising:
[0031] (a) a first storing compartment having a front and a back
and a plurality of sides, defining a first cavity portion, wherein
a solid sorbing substrate and a first substance are stored in the
first storing compartment; and
[0032] (b) a second storing compartment having a front and a back
and a plurality of sides, defining a second cavity portion, wherein
a second substance is stored in the second storing compartment;
[0033] wherein the first and the second compartments are attached
to each other by at least one common side, which common side
comprises a frangible seal connecting the first and the second
compartments, whereby upon by applying force to the frangible seal,
the seal will break and thereby allow the second substance in the
second storing compartment to be mixed with the solid sorbing
substrate, such as a wipe, and the first substance in the first
storing compartment.
[0034] In another embodiment, the invention is directed to a
compartmentalized storage system for temporarily storing and
subsequently mixing at least two different edible substances
comprising:
[0035] (a) a first storing compartment having a front and a back, a
plurality of sides, defining a first cavity portion, wherein a
first edible substance is stored in the first storing compartment;
and
[0036] (b) a second storing compartment having a front and a back
and a plurality of sides, defining a second cavity portion, wherein
a second edible substance is stored in the second storing
compartment;
[0037] wherein the first and the second compartments are attached
to each other by at least one common side, which common side
comprises a frangible seal connecting the first and the second
compartments, whereby upon by applying force to the frangible seal,
the seal will break and thereby allow the second edible substance
in the second storing compartment to be mixed with the first edible
substance in the first storing compartment.
[0038] In yet another embodiment, the invention is directed to a
method for using a compartmentalized storage system to temporarily
store and subsequently mix at least two different substances
comprising the steps of:
[0039] (A) providing a compartmentalized storage system
comprising:
[0040] (a) a first storing compartment having a front and a back, a
plurality of sides, defining a first cavity portion, wherein a
solid sorbing substrate, such as a wipe, and a first substance are
stored in the first storing compartment; and
[0041] (b) a second storing compartment having a front and a back
and a plurality of sides, defining a second cavity portion, wherein
a second substance is stored in the second storing compartment;
[0042] wherein the first and the second compartments are attached
to each other by at least one common side, which common side
comprises a frangible seal connecting the first and the second
compartments, whereby upon by applying force to the frangible seal,
the seal will break and thereby allow the second substance in the
second storing compartment to be mixed with the solid sorbing
substrate, such as a wipe, and the first substance in the first
storing compartment;
[0043] (B) applying force to the frangible seal to break the seal
and thereby allow the second substance in the second storing
compartment to be mixed with the solid sorbing substrate, such as a
wipe, and the first substance in the first storing compartment;
[0044] (C) applying force to the tearable seal to break the seal;
and
[0045] (D) removing the solid sorbing substrate, such as a wipe,,
mixed with the first substance and the second substance, through
the broken tearable seal in the first storing compartment.
[0046] In yet another embodiment, the invention is directed to a
method for using a compartmentalized storage system to temporarily
store and subsequently mix at least two different edible substances
comprising the steps of:
[0047] (A) providing a compartmentalized storage system for
temporarily storing and subsequently mixing at least two different
edible substances comprising:
[0048] (a) a first storing compartment having a front and a back, a
plurality of sides, defining a first cavity portion, wherein a
first edible substance is stored in the first storing compartment;
and
[0049] (b) a second storing compartment having a front and a back
and a plurality of sides, defining a second cavity portion, wherein
a second edible substance is stored in the second storing
compartment; wherein the first and the second compartments are
attached to each other by at least one common side, which common
side comprises a frangible seal connecting the first and the second
compartments, whereby upon by applying force to the frangible seal,
the seal will break and thereby allow the second edible substance
in the second storing compartment to be mixed with the first edible
substance in the first storing compartment;
[0050] (B) applying force to the frangible seal to break the seal
and thereby allow the second edible substance in the second storing
compartment to be mixed with the first edible substance in the
first storing compartment;
[0051] (C) applying force to the tearable seal to break the seal;
and
[0052] (D) removing the first edible substance mixed with the
second edible substance through the broken tearable seal in the
first storing compartment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0053] The present invention is directed to a compartmentalized
storage system for temporarily storing and subsequently mixing at
least two different substances such as in household and personal
care product applications. In one embodiment, the compartmentalized
storage system comprises a first storing compartment having a front
and a back, a plurality of sides, and optionally a tearable seal. A
solid sorbing substrate, such as a wipe, and a first substance are
stored in the first storing compartment. The compartmentalized
storage system further comprises a second storing compartment
having a front and a back and a plurality of sides. A second
substance is stored in the second storing compartment. The first
and the second compartments are attached to each other by at least
one common side, which common side comprises a frangible seal
connecting the first and the second compartments. Upon by applying
force to the frangible seal, the seal will break and thereby allow
the second substance in the second storing compartment to be mixed
with the solid sorbing substrate and the first substance in the
first storing compartment.
[0054] In a preferred embodiment, a tearable seal and the frangible
seal are located adjacent to each other such that pressure to open
the tearable seal will break the frangible seal and thereby allow
the second substance in the second storing compartment to be mixed
with the solid sorbing substrate and the first substance in the
first storing compartment in one step. The consumer then removes
the solid sorbing substrate, mixed with the first substance and the
second substance, through the broken tearable seal in the first
storing compartment.
[0055] The compartmentalized storage system is preferably flexible,
and the first and second storing compartments may be substantially
rectangular. In one embodiment, the first and the second
compartments are attached to each other by one common side. In
another embodiment, the first and the second compartments are
attached to each other by two common sides. In yet another
embodiment, the first and the second compartments are attached to
each other by more than two common sides. In a preferred
embodiment, the tearable seal and the frangible seal are located
adjacent to each other such that pressure to open the tearable seal
will break the frangible seal. The first substance may be liquid,
or may be solid. The second substance may be liquid or may be
gaseous. Preferably, the first and second substances are
substantially non-compatible. In one embodiment, the first and
second substances are substantially non-compatible such that mixing
the substances causes an exothermic or endothermic reaction. In
another embodiment, the first and second substances are
substantially non-compatible such that mixing the substances causes
a foaming reaction. In another embodiment, the first and second
substances are substantially non-compatible such that mixing the
substances causes a color changing reaction. For examples, dye
based indicator systems that change color after a specific usage
period may be prepared. In another embodiment, the first and second
substances are substantially non-compatible such that mixing the
substances causes a fragrance or flavor changing reaction. In
another embodiment, one of the first or second substances is a
fragrance and the other of the first or second substances is a
bleach. The compartmentalized storage system for temporarily
storing and subsequently mixing at least two different substances
may be used to prepapre a personal care wipe that contains a wipe
on one side and an activating solution on the other side that can
be used for cleaning, moisturizing, or other personal uses.
[0056] The present invention is also directed to a
compartmentalized storage system for temporarily storing and
subsequently mixing at least two different edible substances such
as in food product applications. In this embodiment, the
compartmentalized storage system comprises a first storing
compartment having a front and a back, a plurality of sides, and
optionally a tearable seal. A first edible substance is stored in
the first storing compartment. The compartmentalized storage system
further comprises a second storing compartment having a front and a
back and a plurality of sides. A second edible substance is stored
in the second storing compartment. The first and the second
compartments are attached to each other by at least one common
side, which common side comprises a frangible seal connecting the
first and the second compartments. Upon applying force to the
frangible seal, the seal will break and thereby allow the second
edible substance in the second storing compartment to be mixed with
the first edible substance in the first storing compartment.
[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the first edible substance is an
oil phase and the second edible substances is an aqueous phase such
as for preparing a salad dressing or a sauce. In another preferred
embodiment, the first edible substance is milk and the second
edible substances is dry cereal.
[0058] The compartmentalized storage system for temporarily storing
and subsequently mixing two different edible substances may be
employed to maintain two foods separately that can then be combined
at the time of usage by breaking the frangible seal separating the
compartments. Applications include salad dressings (oil and water
phases), cereals (milk and dry cereal), sauces (spices and
liquids), soups (water and dry materials), and many other edible
products. The advantage to the compartmentalized storage system is
that the freshness of the materials can be maintained by the
physical separation between the components. This separation can
have a positive effect on the taste of the food. Often with
prepared foods, the character of the food is uniform because of the
long term association of all of the components. By maintaining a
separation between the different components until just prior to
use, as in the present invention, an improved taste can be
generated. Also a physical separation between food components until
just prior to use can improve the nutritional stability of the
food. This physical separation between food components can be
particularly useful where long term stability is needed. This
physical separation between food components can dramatically
improve shelf life by allowing a rehydration of a dried food. This
physical separation between food components also allows the
combination of typically incompatible materials like spices,
vinegar, etc. with the main body of the food at the time of use.
The food may also undergo a physical transformation following the
breaking of the frangible seal. For example, the final food product
could be a foaming product, such as a product which is the result
of mixing a bicarbonate with a weak acid such as acetic or citric
acid.
[0059] The present invention is also directed to a method for using
the compartmentalized storage system of the present invention to
temporarily store and subsequently mix at least two different
substances. The method comprises providing a compartmentalized
storage system; applying force to the frangible seal to break the
seal and thereby allow the second substance in the second storing
compartment to be mixed with the solid sorbing substrate, such as a
wipe, and the first substance in the first storing compartment;
applying force to the tearable seal to break the seal; and removing
the solid sorbing substrate, such as a wipe,, mixed with the first
substance and the second substance, through the broken tearable
seal in the first storing compartment.
[0060] The present invention is also directed to a method for using
a compartmentalized storage system of the present invention to
temporarily store and subsequently mix at least two different
edible substances. The method comprises providing a
compartmentalized storage system; applying force to the frangible
seal to break the seal and thereby allow the second edible
substance in the second storing compartment to be mixed with the
first edible substance in the first storing compartment; applying
force to the tearable seal to break the seal; and removing the
first edible substance mixed with the second edible substance
through the broken tearable seal in the first storing
compartment.
[0061] As set out above, the present invention is particularly
useful when the first and second substances are substantially
non-compatible. Substantially non-compatible means that the first
and second substances react with each other. The exact amount of
reaction permissable between the first and second substance may
vary depending upon the level of reaction permissable or tolerable
in the final product. In general, the amount of reaction
permissable between the first and second substance is the ordinary
amount tolerable without interfering with the practical or
organoleptic properites of the final product. Such amounts of
reaction are known to the skilled practitioner in the arts and are
not a part of the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, the
amount of reaction permissable between the first and second
substance without interfering with the organoleptic properites of
the final product is an amount from about 1% to about 35%,
preferably from about 3% to about 30%, and more preferably from
about 5% to about 25%. In a preferred embodiment, the time period
for reaction permissable between the first and second substance
permissable without interfering with the organoleptic properites of
the final product is an amount from about 1 day to about 12 months,
preferably from about 1 week to about 10 months, and more
preferably from about 1 month to about 6 months.
[0062] The invention will be better understood from the following
detailed description of the preferred embodiments taken in
conjunction with the Figures, in which like elements are
represented by like referenced numerals.
[0063] In FIG. 1, a compartmentalized storage system to temporarily
store and subsequently mix at least two different substances, in
accord with the present invention, is depicted generally as 100 and
constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
[0064] Compartmentalized storage system 100 comprises a first
storing compartment first (110), having a front (111) and a back
(112), a plurality of sides (113, 114, 115, 116), respectively, and
a tearable seal (117), defining a first cavity portion. A wipe
(120) and a first substance (121) are stored in the first storing
compartment (110).
[0065] Compartmentalized storage system 100 also comprises a second
storing compartment (130) having a front (131) and a back (132) and
a plurality of sides (133, 134, 135, 136), respectively, defining a
second cavity portion. A second substance (140) is stored in the
second storing compartment (130).
[0066] The first (110) and the second (130) compartments are
attached to each other by at least one common side (113, 135),
which common side (113, 135) comprises a frangible seal (150)
connecting the first (110) and the second compartments (130). By
applying force to the frangible seal (150), the seal (150) will
break and thereby allow the second substance (140) in the second
storing compartment (130) to be mixed with the wipe (120) and the
first substance (121) in the first storing compartment (110).
[0067] In FIG. 2, a compartmentalized storage system to temporarily
store and subsequently mix at least two different substances, in
accord with the present invention, is depicted generally as 200 and
constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention. In this embodiment, the first and the second
compartments are attached to each other by two common sides.
[0068] Compartmentalized storage system 200 comprises a first
storing compartment first (210), having a front (211) and a back
(212), a plurality of sides (213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 218),
respectively, and a tearable seal (219), defining a first cavity
portion. A wipe (220) and a first substance (221) are stored in the
first storing compartment (210).
[0069] Compartmentalized storage system 200 also comprises a second
storing compartment (230) having a front (231) and a back (232) and
a plurality of sides (233, 234, 235, 236), respectively, defining a
second cavity portion. A second substance (240) is stored in the
second storing compartment (230).
[0070] The first (210) and the second (230) compartments are
attached to each other by two common sides (216, 234 and 217, 233).
One of the common sides (216, 234) comprises a frangible seal (250)
connecting the first (210) and the second compartments (230). By
applying force to the frangible seal (250), the seal (250) will
break and thereby allow the second substance (240) in the second
storing compartment (230) to be mixed with the wipe (220) and the
first substance (221) in the first storing compartment (210).
[0071] In FIG. 3, a compartmentalized storage system to temporarily
store and subsequently mix at least two different edible
substances, in accord with the present invention, is depicted
generally as 300 and constructed in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the
tearable seal and the frangible seal are located adjacent to each
other such that pressure to open the tearable seal will break the
frangible seal.
[0072] Compartmentalized storage system 300 comprises a first
storing compartment first (310), having a front (311) and a back
(312), a plurality of sides (313, 314, 315, 316, 317),
respectively, and a tearable seal (318), defining a first cavity
portion. A first edible substance (320) is stored in the first
storing compartment (310).
[0073] Compartmentalized storage system 300 also comprises a second
storing compartment (330) having a front (331) and a back (332) and
a plurality of sides (333, 334, 335), respectively, defining a
second cavity portion. A second edible substance (340) is stored in
the second storing compartment (330).
[0074] The first (310) and the second (330) compartments are
attached to each other by at least one common side (315, 333),
which common side (315, 333) comprises a frangible seal (350)
connecting the first (310) and the second compartments (330). By
applying force to the frangible seal (350), the seal (350) will
break and thereby allow the second edible substance (340) in the
second storing compartment (330) to be mixed with the first edible
substance (320) in the first storing compartment (310).
[0075] The following film specification was used to make the
prototype samples of the compartmentalized storage system for
temporarily storing and subsequently mixing at least two different
substances of the present invention. The following type of
packaging material may be used. Specification: Multi-laminated film
comprising of a top layer of 50 gauge PVDC coated PET, followed by
a layer of 10 guage PE and a final layer of 2 ml "SURLYN", which
material actually forms the "frangible seal".
[0076] The present invention also provides a method for using a
compartmentalized storage system to temporarily store and
subsequently mix at least two different substances. The method
comprises the steps of:
[0077] (A) providing a compartmentalized storage system
comprising:
[0078] (a) a first storing compartment having a front and a back, a
plurality of sides, and a tearable seal, defining a first cavity
portion, wherein a solid sorbing substrate, such as a wipe, and a
first substance are stored in the first storing compartment;
and
[0079] (b) a second storing compartment having a front and a back
and a plurality of sides, defining a second cavity portion, wherein
a second substance is stored in the second storing compartment;
[0080] wherein the first and the second compartments are attached
to each other by at least one common side, which common side
comprises a frangible seal connecting the first and the second
compartments, whereby upon by applying force to the frangible seal,
the seal will break and thereby allow the second substance in the
second storing compartment to be mixed with the solid sorbing
substrate, such as a wipe, and the first substance in the first
storing compartment;
[0081] (B) applying force to the frangible seal to break the seal
and thereby allow the second substance in the second storing
compartment to be mixed with the solid sorbing substrate, such as a
wipe, and the first substance in the first storing compartment;
[0082] (C) applying force to the tearable seal to break the seal;
and
[0083] (D) removing the solid sorbing substrate, such as a wipe,,
mixed with the first substance and the second substance, through
the broken tearable seal in the first storing compartment.
[0084] The present invention also provides a method for using a
compartmentalized storage system to temporarily store and
subsequently mix at least two different edible substances
comprising the steps of:
[0085] (A) providing a compartmentalized storage system for
temporarily storing and subsequently mixing at least two different
edible substances comprising:
[0086] (a) a first storing compartment having a front and a back, a
plurality of sides, and a tearable seal, defining a first cavity
portion, wherein a first edible substance is stored in the first
storing compartment; and
[0087] (b) a second storing compartment having a front and a back
and a plurality of sides, defining a second cavity portion, wherein
a second edible substance is stored in the second storing
compartment;
[0088] wherein the first and the second compartments are attached
to each other by at least one common side, which common side
comprises a frangible seal connecting the first and the second
compartments, whereby upon by applying force to the frangible seal,
the seal will break and thereby allow the second edible substance
in the second storing compartment to be mixed with the first edible
substance in the first storing compartment;
[0089] (B) applying force to the frangible seal to break the seal
and thereby allow the second edible substance in the second storing
compartment to be mixed with the first edible substance in the
first storing compartment;
[0090] (C) applying force to the tearable seal to break the seal;
and
[0091] (D) removing the first edible substance mixed with the
second edible substance through the broken tearable seal in the
first storing compartment.
[0092] The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that
the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be
regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention
and all such modifications are intended to be included within the
scope of the following claims.
* * * * *