U.S. patent application number 10/535658 was filed with the patent office on 2006-09-07 for bottle coolers and method of promoting bottled beverages.
Invention is credited to J John Shimazaki.
Application Number | 20060196882 10/535658 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32329796 |
Filed Date | 2006-09-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060196882 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shimazaki; J John |
September 7, 2006 |
Bottle coolers and method of promoting bottled beverages
Abstract
The present invention relates to bottle coolers and a method of
promoting bottled beverage products by promoting bottle coolers
made specifically for that bottled beverage product. The bottle
cooler preferably comprises a container for containing ice that is
adapted to have the beverage bottle positioned substantially
therein, wherein regular ice cubes from standard ice dispensers can
be stored and sealed within the space between the bottle and
container, to help keep the beverage inside cool. The space is
preferably substantially sealed by a cap which is adapted with an
opening and a sealing member that extends over the neck of the
bottle, wherein the bottle can be held in between the sealing
member and one or more supporting surfaces extending substantially
underneath the bottle. Other embodiments that fit particular
bottles using refrigerants are contemplated.
Inventors: |
Shimazaki; J John;
(Sterling, VA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
J John Shimazaki
47799 MacGill Court
Sterling
VA
20165
US
|
Family ID: |
32329796 |
Appl. No.: |
10/535658 |
Filed: |
November 19, 2003 |
PCT Filed: |
November 19, 2003 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US03/36962 |
371 Date: |
May 19, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10298613 |
Nov 19, 2002 |
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10535658 |
May 19, 2005 |
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10382526 |
Mar 7, 2003 |
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10535658 |
May 19, 2005 |
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60482475 |
Jun 26, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/737 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F25D 2331/809 20130101;
F25D 2331/803 20130101; B65D 25/32 20130101; B65D 81/3844 20130101;
F25D 31/007 20130101; F25D 2303/081 20130101; F25D 3/08
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/737 |
International
Class: |
B65D 25/00 20060101
B65D025/00 |
Claims
1. A cooler for holding a beverage receptacle, comprising: a
container adapted to enable the beverage receptacle to be inserted
at least partially therein, wherein said container is adapted with
an inner shell and outer shell secured together; wherein said inner
shell is provided with at least one support extended on the inside
for engaging the beverage receptacle, wherein at least one of said
at least one support is adapted to engage a portion of the beverage
receptacle in a manner that helps to maintain the beverage
receptacle in a substantially fixed position inside said container,
wherein a space for storing ice particles is formed between the
beverage receptacle and the inner shell; a cap adapted to be
substantially sealed onto said container, wherein said cap has an
opening through which a neck of the beverage receptacle can be
extended, wherein a sealing member is provided which can be pressed
against a shoulder portion of the beverage receptacle when the
beverage receptacle is in said container; and wherein said cooler
is adapted such that when said cap is substantially sealed onto
said container with the beverage receptacle inside, said sealing
member is capable of being pressed and substantially sealed against
the shoulder portion of the beverage receptacle, to substantially
seal the space with the ice particles inside the container in
direct contact with the beverage receptacle.
2. The cooler of claim 1, wherein said at least one support
comprises a plurality of support members extended from said inner
shell of said container for self-centering and supporting the
beverage receptacle, wherein at least one of said support members
is adapted to fit into a groove and/or indentation located on a
lower portion of the beverage receptacle, to substantially prevent
the beverage receptacle from rotating inside said cooler.
3. The cooler of claim 1, wherein said at least one support
comprises at least one support member extending upward from a floor
of said inner shell, wherein said support member has an upper
surface adapted to engage a lower portion of the beverage
receptacle, wherein the engagement of said upper surface with the
beverage receptacle helps to maintain the beverage receptacle in a
substantially fixed position inside the container.
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23. The cooler of claim 1, wherein said at least one support
comprises at least one feature taken from the group consisting of:
a) a plurality of support members extending inward and/or upward
inside said inner shell, wherein said support members are formed as
indentations on said inner shell; b) a plurality of support members
extending inward and/or upward inside said inner shell, wherein
said support members are adapted to fit into at least one groove
and/or indentation located on the beverage receptacle; c) a
plurality of support members extending inward and/or upward inside
said inner shell, and at least one center support member extending
upward from a floor of said inner shell; d) a plurality of support
members adapted to fit into at least one groove and/or indentation
located on the beverage receptacle, and at least one center support
member extending upward from a floor of said inner shell; e) a
plurality of support members extending inward and/or upward inside
said inner shell, and at least one center support member extending
upward from a floor of said inner shell adapted to fit into at
least one groove and/or indentation located on the beverage
receptacle; and f) a center support member on a floor of said inner
shell for engaging and supporting the beverage receptacle.
24. The cooler of claim 1, wherein said sealing member is made from
a resilient material and comprises at least one feature taken from
the group consisting of: a) a sealing portion that extends
relatively downward and inward to engage and press against the
shoulder portion of the beverage receptacle; b) a semi-circular or
semi-oval cross-sectional shape; c) at least one blade or rib
portion; d) a durometer of at least 25 Shore A; e) at least a
portion connected to a projection extending from said cap; f) at
least a portion that is capable of being snapped mechanically into
said cap; g) at least a portion that is bonded directly to said cap
using an over-mold, two-shot or like method; and h) a thickness
and/or resiliency sufficient to provide a seal against beverage
receptacles that are not made to exact dimensions.
25. The cooler of claim 1, wherein said inner and outer shells
comprise at least one feature taken from the group consisting of:
a) said inner shell has an externally threaded section for engaging
an internally threaded section on said cap; b) said inner and outer
shells are secured together with a mechanical connection, sonic
welding, spin welding, bonding, and/or adhesive; c) said inner
shell has a flange extended thereon, onto which an upper portion of
said outer shell is secured; and/or d) an insulation material
substantially between said inner and outer shells.
26. The cooler of claim 1, wherein said cap comprises at least one
feature taken from the group consisting of: a) a grip portion; b) a
grip portion having a diameter smaller than the outside diameter of
said cap; c) an internally threaded section; d) a grip portion
below said sealing member, and above an internally threaded
section; e) a handle pivotally mounted to said cap; f) a groove to
provide an interference fit relative to said container for sealing
said cap onto said container; and/or g) a gasket for sealing said
cap onto said container.
27. The cooler of claim 1, wherein a handle is provided that
comprises at least one feature taken from the group consisting of:
a) said handle is pivotally mounted to said cap; b) said handle is
pivotally mounted to said cap and adapted with at least one stop to
limit the movement of said handle; c) said handle is pivotally
mounted to said cap and adapted with an extended section to clear
the top of the beverage receptacle when the beverage receptacle is
positioned in said container; d) said handle is pivotally mounted
to said cap, with pegs that can be inserted into notches on said
cap; e) said handle is mounted to said cap and has webbed
stiffeners; and/or f) said handle extends from said outer shell of
said container.
28. A cooler for holding a beverage receptacle, comprising: a
molded container adapted such that when the beverage receptacle is
placed in said container, a space for storing ice particles in
direct contact with the beverage receptacle is formed between the
beverage receptacle and said container; a molded cap adapted to be
substantially sealed onto said container, wherein said cap has an
opening through which a neck of the beverage receptacle can be
extended; a molded sealing member on said cap, wherein said sealing
member is made substantially from a material having a durometer of
at least 25 Shore A, wherein said sealing member is adapted to be
pressed against a shoulder portion of the beverage receptacle when
the beverage receptacle is placed in said container; and wherein
said cap and container have threaded sections to enable them to be
tightened and sealed together, such that with the beverage
receptacle inside said container, said sealing member can be
pressed and sealed against the beverage receptacle, and the space
substantially sealed.
29. The cooler of claim 28, wherein said container comprises at
least one support extended on the inside for engaging the beverage
receptacle, wherein said at least one support comprises at least
one feature taken from the group consisting of: a) at least one
support member adapted to engage a portion of the beverage
receptacle in a manner that helps to maintain the beverage
receptacle in a substantially fixed position inside said container;
b) a plurality of support members extending inward and/or upward
inside said container, wherein said support members are formed as
indentations on said container; c) a plurality of support members
extending inward and/or upward inside said container, wherein said
support members are adapted to fit into grooves and/or indentations
located on the beverage receptacle; d) a plurality of support
members extending inward and/or upward inside said container, and
at least one center support member extending upward from a floor of
said container; e) a plurality of support members inside said
container adapted to fit into at least one groove and/or
indentation located on the beverage receptacle, and at least one
center support member extending upward from a floor of said
container; f) a plurality of support members extending inward
and/or upward inside said container, and at least one center
support member adapted to fit into at least one groove and/or
indentation located on the beverage receptacle; and g) a center
support member extending upward from a floor of said container for
engaging and supporting the beverage receptacle.
30. The cooler of claim 28, wherein said sealing member is made
from a resilient material and comprises at least one feature taken
from the group consisting of: a) a sealing portion that extends
relatively downward and inward to engage and press against the
shoulder of the beverage receptacle; b) a semi-circular or
semi-oval cross-sectional shape; c) at least one blade or rib
portion; d) at least a portion connected to a projection extending
from said cap; e) at least a portion that is capable of being
snapped mechanically into said cap; f) at least a portion bonded
directly to said cap using an over-mold, two-shot or like method;
and/or g) a thickness and/or resiliency sufficient to provide a
seal against beverage receptacles that are not made to exact
dimensions.
31. The cooler of claim 28, wherein said container comprises inner
and outer shells that are secured together, and have at least one
feature taken from the group consisting of: a) said inner shell
having an externally threaded section for engaging an internally
threaded section on said cap; b) said inner and outer shells are
secured together with a mechanical connection, sonic welding, spin
welding, bonding, and/or adhesive; c) said inner shell has a flange
extended thereon, onto which an upper portion of said outer shell
is secured; and/or d) an insulation material substantially between
said inner and outer shells.
32. The cooler of claim 28, wherein said cap comprises at least one
feature taken from the group consisting of: a) a grip portion; b) a
grip portion having a diameter smaller than the outside diameter of
said cap; c) an internally threaded section; d) a grip portion
below said sealing member, and above an internally threaded
section; e) a handle pivotally mounted to said cap; f) a groove to
provide an interference fit relative to said container for sealing
said cap onto said container; and/or g) a gasket for sealing said
cap onto said container.
33. The cooler of claim 28, wherein a handle is provided that
comprises at least one feature taken from the group consisting of:
a) said handle is pivotally mounted to said cap; a) said handle is
pivotally mounted to said cap and adapted with at least one stop to
limit the movement of said handle; b) said handle is pivotally
mounted to said cap and adapted with an extended section to clear
the top of the beverage receptacle when the beverage receptacle is
positioned in said container; c) said handle is pivotally mounted
to said cap, with pegs that can be inserted into notches on said
cap; d) said handle is mounted to said cap and has webbed
stiffeners; and/or e) said handle extends from said outer shell of
said container.
34. A method of making a cooler for holding a beverage receptacle,
comprising: molding a container adapted to enable the beverage
receptacle to be inserted at least partially therein, wherein said
container is adapted such that when the beverage receptacle is
placed in said container, a space for storing ice particles in
direct contact with the beverage receptacle is formed between the
beverage receptacle and said container; molding a cap adapted to be
substantially sealed onto said container, wherein said cap has an
opening through which a neck of the beverage receptacle can be
extended; molding a sealing member onto said cap using an
over-mold, two shot or like method, wherein said sealing member is
adapted to be pressed against a shoulder portion of the beverage
receptacle when the beverage receptacle is placed in said
container; and wherein said cooler is adapted such that when said
cap is substantially sealed onto said container with the beverage
receptacle inside, said sealing member is sealed against the
beverage receptacle, and the space is substantially sealed.
35. The method of claim 34, wherein the step of molding said
container comprises forming at least one support extended on the
inside of said container for engaging and supporting the beverage
receptacle, wherein said at least one support comprises at least
one feature taken from the group consisting of: a) at least one
support member adapted to engage a portion of the beverage
receptacle in a manner that helps to maintain the beverage
receptacle in a substantially fixed position inside said container;
b) a plurality of support members extending inward and/or upward
inside said container, wherein said support members are formed as
indentations on said container; c) a plurality of support members
extending inward and/or upward inside said container, wherein said
support members are adapted to fit into grooves and/or indentations
located on the beverage receptacle; d) a plurality of support
members extending inward and/or upward inside said container, and
at least one center support member extending upward from a floor of
said container; e) a plurality of support members adapted to fit
into at least one groove and/or indentation located on the beverage
receptacle, and at least one center support member extending upward
from a floor of said container; f) a plurality of support members
extending inward and/or upward inside said container, and at least
one center support member extending upward from a floor of said
container adapted to fit into at least one groove and/or
indentation located on the beverage receptacle; and g) a center
support member extending upward from a floor of said container for
engaging and supporting the beverage receptacle.
36. The method of claim 34, wherein the step of molding said
sealing member comprises forming said sealing member from a
resilient material, with at least one feature taken from the group
consisting of: a) a sealing portion that extends relatively
downward and inward to engage and press against the shoulder of the
beverage receptacle; b) a semi-circular or semi-oval
cross-sectional shape; c) at least one blade or rib portion; d) at
least a portion connected to a projection extending from said cap;
e) at least a portion that is capable of being snapped mechanically
into said cap; f) at least a portion bonded directly to said cap
using an over-mold, two-shot or like method; g) a thickness and/or
resiliency sufficient to provide a seal against beverage
receptacles that are not made to exact dimensions; and/or h) a
durometer of 25 Shore A or greater.
37. The method of claim 34, wherein the step of molding said
container comprises molding inner and outer shells and providing at
least one feature taken from the group consisting of: a) an
externally threaded section on said inner shell for engaging an
internally threaded section on said cap; b) said inner and outer
shells are secured together with a mechanical connection, sonic
welding, spin welding, bonding, and/or adhesive; c) said inner
shell has a flange extended thereon, onto which an upper portion of
said outer shell is secured; and/or d) an insulation material
substantially between said inner and outer shells.
38. The method of claim 34, wherein the step of molding said cap
comprises providing at least one feature taken from the group
consisting of: a) a grip portion; b) a grip portion having a
diameter smaller than the outside diameter of said cap; c) an
internally threaded section; d) a grip portion below said sealing
member, and above an internally threaded section; e) a handle
pivotally mounted to said cap; f) a groove to provide an
interference fit relative to said container for sealing said cap
onto said container; and/or g) a gasket for sealing said cap onto
said container.
39. The method of claim 34, wherein the method comprises molding a
handle and providing at least one feature taken from the group
consisting of: a) pivotally securing said handle to said cap; b)
pivotally mounting said handle to said cap and providing at least
one stop to limit the movement of said handle; c) pivotally
mounting said handle to said cap and providing an extended section
on said handle to clear the top of the beverage receptacle when the
beverage receptacle is positioned in said container; d) pivotally
mounting said handle to said cap, with pegs that can be inserted
into notches on said cap; e) mounting said handle to said cap and
providing webbed stiffeners on said handle; and/or f) extending
said handle from said outer shell of said container.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] Commercial bottled beverage products come in bottles made of
PET, glass, etc. Over the past ten years, PET bottles, in
particular, have become increasingly popular. For example, it is
estimated that in the U.S. over 14 billions units of 20 ounce PET
bottles of carbonated soft drinks were sold in 2001. Sales are even
higher if bottled water, sport drinks, fruit drinks, iced teas,
etc., are taken into account. Over 4 billion units of 2 liter
bottles were sold.
[0002] These figures help show why beverage companies are willing
to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on advertising to promote
their products. One way that beverage companies promote products is
through promotional drink-ware products, such as cups, mugs, sports
bottles, etc., with brand names and logos printed on them. These
methods, however, are mostly used in connection with sales of
fountain drinks. Promotional drink-ware products for bottled
beverage products, except possibly insulated foam sleeves, are
currently not available.
[0003] The growing popularity of PET bottles suggests that the
beverage industry and sellers of beverages would be interested in
using bottle coolers to promote bottled beverage products,
particularly given the high profit margins involved.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] In Applicant's U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,621, an individual bottle
cooler was disclosed in which a single bottle of beverage could be
held therein, wherein standard ice cubes, such as crushed, chopped,
diced, etc., could be stored and sealed within the space between
the container and bottle, to keep the beverage in the bottle cold.
The container was preferably sized and shaped so that a beverage
bottle of a predetermined size and shape could be held inside, with
one or more supports for the lower end of the bottle, wherein a cap
with an opening therein could be used to seal the container, with
the neck of the bottle extending through the cap. A sealing member
on the cap could then be pressed and substantially sealed against
the shoulder of the bottle, to prevent ice and water in the space
from leaking out. This way, ice and water could be maintained in
direct contact with the bottle, and the beverage could be
maintained at a reduced temperature, without diluting or
introducing contaminants into the beverage, and carbonation could
be preserved. The beverage could also be poured, served and
consumed without having to take the bottle out of the ice.
[0005] The present invention relates to similar types of bottle
coolers that enable individual beverage bottles to be maintained at
a reduced temperature, as well as a method of using those coolers
to promote specific bottled beverage products. The method uses
bottle coolers made to accommodate a particular beverage bottle
having a predetermined size and shape, wherein by promoting them,
beverage companies and sellers of beverages can promote the
particular bottled beverage products the bottle coolers were
designed to fit, since consumers that want to use the bottle
coolers would have to buy those bottled beverage products, and not
other bottled beverage products, to do so.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4 show an embodiment with double wall
construction and a pivoting carry handle for a 2 liter bottle or
other large PET bottle;
[0007] FIGS. 5a and 5b show another double wall embodiment;
[0008] FIGS. 6a, 6b and 6c show a stackable embodiment with a
replacement straw;
[0009] FIGS. 7a and 7b show alternate caps for sealing the
container;
[0010] FIGS. 8a and 8b show a one-piece embodiment;
[0011] FIGS. 9a and 9b show another embodiment with a bowl-like
floor;
[0012] FIGS. 10a and 10b show supports for a typical PET
bottle;
[0013] FIGS. 11a and 11b show a cap with a sealing member and
gasket; and
[0014] FIGS. 12a, 12b, 12c and 12d show an embodiment using
refrigerant rings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0015] In FIGS. 1-4, an embodiment 270 suitable for use with a 2
liter bottle 271, or other large size bottle, is shown. Bottle
cooler 270 has a double wall container 272 and cap 276 capable of
being sealed onto container 272. Container 272 is preferably an
open-top container formed by inner shell 274 and outer shell 273,
wherein an opening preferably enables a bottle, such as 271, to be
inserted and positioned at least partially therein.
[0016] Inner shell 274 preferably has extended on the inside
thereof at least one support, such as 275, or a plurality of
supports, such as 292, extending up and/or inward from inner shell
274, adapted to provide vertical and lateral support for bottle
271. This way, bottle 271 can be inserted into container 272, and
held in a substantially fixed position by supports 275 or 292, such
that a space 294 is formed between bottle 271 and container 272, in
which ice particles, such as ice cubes, crushed ice, chopped ice,
etc., can be stored. Inner and outer shells 274, 273 can be any
shape that allows space 294 to be of sufficient size. Preferably,
the distance between inner shell 274 and bottle 271 allows
conventional size ice cubes to be distributed and stored therein.
While it is desirable that sufficient space 294 be provided, it is
also desirable for container 272 to be relatively compact, and easy
to manufacture and store, and therefore, the present invention
contemplates that these factors should be taken into account when
designing container 272.
[0017] Cap 276 preferably has a central opening, as shown in FIG.
4, through which neck of bottle 271 can extend. Cap 276 preferably
has a resilient sealing member 284 extended on the inside and
substantially around the opening. When cap 276 is tightened onto
container 272, with neck extended through the cap's opening,
sealing member 284 preferably engages and presses against the
shoulder of bottle 271, to substantially seal space 294 with bottle
271 and ice in container 272.
[0018] Sealing member 284 preferably has an engaging surface, which
can be in virtually any cross-sectional shape that performs in the
intended manner. For example, it can be semi-circular or semi-oval,
and/or have multiple blades or ribs, etc., which can help promote
water-tightness, even against unevenly shaped bottles. Sealing
member 284 can be secured to cap 276 using any conventional method,
including an interference fit, interlocking sections, adhesives,
chemical bonding, fusing, etc. Preferably, sealing member 284 is
chemically bonded to cap 276 using a two shot or over-mold method,
or mechanically snapped in.
[0019] Sealing member 284 is preferably made of resilient material,
such as Santoprene.RTM., Neoprene.RTM., rubber, silicon,
polypropylene, polyethylene, or other like material, or a
combination thereof, etc. Sealing member 284 can be firm and/or
thick enough so that a degree of tolerance can be provided to form
a seal even if bottle 271 is not made to exact dimensions. Sealing
member 284 is preferably made with a durometer between 25A and 80A
or higher. Sealing member 284 preferably has a low friction
coefficient to make removing cap 276 relatively easy, and the
material used to make sealing member 284 preferably has relatively
high flow characteristics to form the ribs and/or blades.
[0020] Cap 276 preferably has threads 296 along an internal
diameter thereof for engaging threads 295 along an external
diameter of container 272. The threads can be continuous or broken.
An interference fit, valve seal, gasket or other connection, etc.,
is preferably created between cap 276 and upper landing of
container 272, to enable the connection between cap 276 and
container 272 to be watertight.
[0021] Various supports, such as 275 or 292, for supporting bottle
271 in relation to container 272 are contemplated. Supports 275 or
292 preferably keep bottle 271 at a relatively fixed position
inside container 272 so that when cap 276 and container 272 are
tightened together, bottle 271 can be held in substantial
compression between sealing member 284 and supports 275 or 292,
with sealing member 284 pressed tightly against bottle 271 to form
a substantial watertight seal. Cap 276 and container 272 are
preferably adapted to hold a particular bottle 271 having a
predetermined size and shape, which requires the shape, size and
location of supports, 275 or 292, and shape, size and location of
sealing member 284, to be pre-determined to maintain bottle 271 in
position inside container 272.
[0022] Inner shell 274 is preferably formed to fit inside outer
shell 273, forming a cavity 282 between them for insulation. Outer
shell 273 and inner shell 274 are preferably secured together along
upper portion 278 of outer container 273, and intermediate portion
280 of inner container 274. An exterior flange 279 is preferably
extended along intermediate portion 280, forming a narrow groove in
which upper portion 278 of outer container 273 can be inserted from
below and connected. The connection can be by any conventional
means, such as adhesives, chemical bonding, mechanical connection,
sonic welding, spin welding, etc. The cavity 282 between inner and
outer shells 274, 273 can be filled with foam insulation, which can
be used to secure inner shell 274 to outer shell 273 in a
conventional manner. No additional supports are required between
inner 274 and outer 273 shells, although supports, such as near the
bottom, can be provided if desired.
[0023] When central support 275 is used, support 275 preferably
provides support for the lower end of bottle 271, as well as
prevents bottle 271 from rotating once cap 276 is placed on
container 272. Support 275 can extend upward and preferably has
five ridges, such as 222 shown in FIG. 10a, wherein the five ridges
are adapted to fit into the five grooves found on the lower surface
of a conventional PET bottle. The bottom of a typical PET bottle
271 has multiple grooves, i.e., many have five grooves, to provide
rigidity and support thereto. This way, when bottle 271 is inserted
into container 272 and held in substantial compression between cap
276 and support 275, bottle 271 is prevented from rotating. It can
be seen that support 275 can have an upper configuration that can
be adapted to any particular type of PET bottle, regardless of its
shape, by mirroring the shape of the bottom of the bottle, i.e.,
such as by digital scanning. The curved floor 277 that surrounds
support 275 helps to displace ice upward, if necessary, as bottle
271 is pushed into the ice.
[0024] When a plurality of supports 292 is used, which is the
preferred method, supports 292 preferably extend inward as
indentations from inner shell 274, and extend upward from floor
277. Preferably, supports 292 are designed fit into grooves on the
bottom of bottle 271, wherein the supports provide vertical and
lateral support for, as well as help self-center, bottle 271.
Preferably, five supports, or at least three, are provided to
create a support system that can maintain bottle 271 in a
substantially fixed position inside container 272, wherein each
support can be adapted to fit into a single groove on the bottom of
bottle 271, while allowing a substantial portion of the ice
particles to be in direct contact with bottle 271.
[0025] Cap 276 preferably has a pivoting carry handle 285 that
pivots about two pivot points or notches 286 to enable cooler 270
to be easily carried and handled. Handle 285 preferably has an
extended section 287 that clears the top 288 of bottle 271, as
shown in FIG. 1, which enables handle 285 to be comfortably gripped
in an upright position. Handle 285 can also be used to tilt cooler
270 for serving purposes, such as in the position shown in FIG. 2,
as well as laid flat as shown in FIG. 3. A stop 291 is preferably
provided to ensure that handle 285 only pivots in one direction.
Handle 285 is preferably made with web-like stiffeners 289 to
maintain rigidity. Cap 276 preferably has a smaller diameter grip
portion 290 to enable cap 276 to be easily gripped by the user's
hands.
[0026] In use, bottle 271 is preferably inserted into container
272, and centered on supports 275 or 292, which helps maintain
bottle 271 in a substantially fixed and centered position. Next,
standard ice particles, such as chopped, cubed, crushed, diced,
etc., are preferably placed inside space 294 between bottle 271 and
inner shell 274. Alternatively, ice can be added first, in which
case bottle 271 can be inserted into the ice, wherein ice can be
displaced upward by curved floor 277 to allow room for bottle 271.
The distance between inner shell 274 and bottle 271 preferably
enables a sufficient amount of ice to be placed in space 294 to
maintain bottle 271 at a reduced temperature for an extended period
of time.
[0027] Next, cap 276 is preferably tightened over bottle 271 with
the neck extending through the opening to cause sealing member 284
to be pressed and sealed against the shoulder of bottle 271. Cap
276 is preferably sealed onto container 272, such that space 294 is
substantially sealed watertight. This prevents water, such as from
melting ice, from leaking out, and enables the beverage to be
poured directly from bottle 271 without having to remove bottle 271
from the ice.
[0028] Additional embodiments of the bottle cooler will now be
discussed. FIGS. 5a and 5b show another embodiment with a double
wall. Container 130 is constructed using an outer shell 132 and
inner shell 134. Inner shell 134 is preferably blow-molded and has
a plurality of indentations 138, as shown in FIG. 9b, that extend
inward to provide a support system for bottle 144, similar to those
shown in previous U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,621. One or more indentations
138 can be adapted to fit into one or more grooves on bottle 144,
as described above, to prevent bottle 144 from rotating inside
container 130.
[0029] Outer shell 132 only extends part of the way up because the
upper portion 135 of inner shell 134 is narrowed, and outer shell
132 is injection molded to fit over the widest area of inner shell
134. When upper portion 135 is not narrowed, both pieces can be
injection molded and extended substantially the height of the
container. Lower section 137 can be narrowed for fitting into
cup-holders. A handle 136 is preferably provided on outer shell
132.
[0030] A connecting means 140 is preferably provided where upper
portion 142 of outer shell 132 connects to inner shell 134. This
can be done by any conventional method, as discussed above,
including spin welding, sonic welding, adhesives, bonding, fusing,
a snap-in fit, tongue and groove connection, threads, etc. A gap
139 is preferably provided between inner and outer shell 132, 134,
which can be filled with foam insulation. Spacers 131 can be
located between inner and outer shells 132, 134 to support outer
shell 132 in relation to inner shell 134. Any other double wall
construction is contemplated.
[0031] FIGS. 6a, 6b and 6c show an embodiment where containers 150
are made of moldable plastic and capable of being stacked on top of
each other. FIG. 6a shows wall 152 of container 150, including
sloped surface 154, lower wall 153, and indentations 156, being
slightly angled with a draft so that a plurality of like containers
150 can be stacked on top of each other. Lower wall 153 is
preferably narrowed to enable container 150 to fit into
conventional cup-holders. Container 150 can be economically
manufactured, so that it can be sold or given away as a souvenir or
promotional item, and enables more pieces to be stacked and
stored.
[0032] Indentations 156 preferably form supports, as described
above, which help to keep bottle 158 in a relatively fixed
position. Preferably, there are at least three indentations 156,
i.e., they can all be shaped like indentation 156 since injection
molds are preferably used. At least one of the indentations 156 is
preferably adapted to fit into one of the grooves on the bottom of
bottle 158, as described above, to prevent bottle 158 from
rotating. On the other hand, when bottles are used that have pull
open tops, this embodiment can, like the others, be made without
supports extending into one or more grooves on bottle 158. In such
case, providing only lateral and vertical support to bottle 158,
without preventing bottle 158 from rotating, would be
sufficient.
[0033] In a variation of this embodiment, a central support can be
extended up from floor 155 of container 150, wherein the floor
would have an indentation angled or tapered upward so that similar
containers 150 could be stacked on top of each other, with one
support of one container 150 stacked on top of a support of an
adjacent container 150. As discussed above, the upper surface of
the support can be adapted to fit into grooves on the bottom of
bottle 158, to prevent bottle rotation.
[0034] Cap 160 is preferably made of molded plastic, and adapted so
that it simply snaps onto the top of container 150, as shown in
FIG. 6a, or can be threaded as discussed previously. As shown, a
curled over rim 162 can be provided that snaps over and onto flange
164 on the upper edge of container 150. This way, container 150 and
cap 160 can be easily snapped together.
[0035] Cap 160 preferably has a central opening 166 through which
the neck of bottle 158 can extend. Although it can, opening 166
does not necessarily have to have a separate resilient sealing
member, since the plastic material will have some degree of
elasticity and resilience. Opening 166 can be formed like a cutout
hole with a predetermined diameter that fits relatively snug over a
smooth shoulder of bottle 158. The inner edge 170 of opening 166
can be shaped to tightly fit the bottle's shoulder, such that a
relatively watertight fit can be provided. Alternatively, the edge
170 can be coated with a soft resilient material to provide an
improved seal. Bottle 158 can also be adapted with a horizontal rib
around the shoulder where edge 170 meets bottle 158 to provide a
better fit.
[0036] This embodiment can be provided with a separate replacement
twist-off lid 161 with a built-in straw 163, as shown in FIG. 6c,
such that after the bottle's lid 159 is opened, the user can simply
replace the bottle's lid 159 with the replacement lid 161 and then
use straw 163. The straw, in such case, preferably has a pull-off
cap 165 so that it can be sealed. An advantage of using a straw is
that it draws beverage from the bottom of bottle 158, which is
where the beverage is the coldest.
[0037] FIGS. 7a and 7b show embodiments of caps 175 and 180 that
can be adapted to provide a water-tight seal without having a
bottle in the container, so that the container can double as a
sports bottle, mug, etc. In situations where bottled drinks are not
desired or available, the container can be used as a sports bottle
or mug for fountain drinks. The alternate cap designs can be
offered separately, so that consumers will have the option of using
the container as a bottle cooler, or as a traditional sports bottle
or mug.
[0038] In FIG. 7a, a cap 175 similar to cap 240 (shown in FIG. 11a)
is shown, although any cap discussed herein can be used. In this
embodiment, a separate plug 176, such as made of resilient
material, can be inserted into opening 177 of cap 175. Plug 176 is
preferably provided with an insert portion 178 that can be inserted
into opening 177, and a flange portion 179 that can be extended
over cap 175, to substantially seal opening 177. Insert portion 178
is preferably adapted such that it can be snapped into opening 177
with an interference fit, such that plug 176 can be retained
therein. Plug 176 can be used to seal opening 177 when no bottle is
used. Insert portion 178 can also be adapted with threads that
connect to threads on opening 177.
[0039] In FIG. 7b, a separate cap 180 is shown with a hole 182 and
straw 181 extended through upper wall 183. In this embodiment, the
beverage can be consumed directly from the container like a sports
bottle. The cap 180 essentially functions like a lid to prevent
spills, and allows consumers to drink directly from the container
via straw 181. Other drinking means (not shown), such as standard
flip up drinking spouts, can also be used on cap 180. Cap 180 can
also be made without a straw, wherein upper wall 183 can be made
solid. Likewise, plug 176 discussed above, can be made to have a
straw or drinking means extended through it, so that consumers can
drink directly from the container.
[0040] FIG. 7b also shows cap 180 with gasket 184 bonded directly
thereto using a two shot or over-mold method. Cap 180 is formed
first, and then gasket 184 is formed directly on cap 180 using a
second mold. A stepped portion 185 is preferably formed around
gasket 184, so that the width dimension of gasket 184 will not
extend behind threads 187. This enables gasket 184 to be molded
directly into cap 180 against surface 186, without threads 187
interfering with the insert mold. In other embodiments, a sealing
member, like those discussed previously, can also be molded
directly into the cap, using a two shot or over-mold method.
Moreover, to allow both the sealing member and gasket to be formed
during the same production step, one or more channels can be
extended between the sealing member and gasket, so that material
from one can travel to the other during the production cycles.
[0041] In FIG. 8a, an economical container 190 for holding ice
around a bottle 191 is shown. Container 190 is preferably sized and
shaped to enable a bottle 191 of a predetermined size and shape to
be inserted therein. The wall 197 is preferably adapted such that
with bottle 191 positioned in container 190, a space 196 is formed
between container 190 and bottle 191 for storing ice particles
therein. In this embodiment, however, the upper portion 192 of
container 190 is preferably narrowed and provided with an opening
193 having an internal edge 194 having a predetermined size and
shape, wherein edge 194 is adapted to be substantially pressed
against and connected to a pre-formed reciprocal perimeter surface
of bottle 191, i.e., just below the shoulder.
[0042] FIG. 8a shows an embodiment where bottle 191 is specially
made to have a horizontal rib portion 195 with a predetermined size
and shape located thereon. Rib 195 is preferably adapted such that
internal edge 194 can be inserted into rib 195, i.e., snapped in,
to form a relatively tight fit, wherein the fit provides a
substantially water-tight seal between container 190 and bottle
191, i.e., to seal space 196, and helps to maintain bottle 191 at a
predetermined position relative to container 190.
[0043] Rib 195 on bottle 191 is preferably shaped with a central
portion having a diameter that enables internal edge 194 of
container 190 to fit tightly against it. A lower portion 198 of rib
195 is preferably curved and has a diameter only slightly greater
than that of edge 194, to enable bottle 191 to slide down, while
forming a "snap point" where edge 194 can be fitted into rib 195.
An upper portion 199 of rib 195 preferably has a diameter greater
than lower portion 198, so that upper portion 199 can prevent
bottle 191 from sliding all the way down into container 190. Upper
portion 199 preferably has a diameter greater than any other lower
portion of bottle 191, such that bottle 191 can be inserted into
container 190, while at the same time, bottle 191 can be held at a
predetermined position inside container 190.
[0044] No bottom supports for bottle 191 are needed since the
engagement of internal edge 194 with horizontal rib 195 preferably
holds bottle 191 in position in container 190. This may allow, for
instance, the beverage to be poured or consumed directly from
bottle 191, without having to remove it from the ice, and without
water in the container leaking out. Also, enough of bottle 191
extends above edge 194 so that it can be held to prevent rotation
of the bottle as the bottle's lid is being opened and/or closed.
Container 190 can have a narrowed lower portion 200 for fitting
into cup-holders, as discussed before. Upper portion 192 can be
provided with one or more sealing members, blade rings or contact
surfaces, etc. In such case, the sealing surfaces on the container
are preferably adapted to engage a corresponding surface on the
inner container, which can be a standard commercial beverage
bottle. Where sealing members, such as blade rings, are used, the
beverage bottle preferably has a relatively smooth exterior
surface, or one or more horizontal ribs, wherein the engagement of
the sealing member against the exterior surface of the bottle
enables space 196 to be substantially sealed thereby.
[0045] FIG. 8b shows an alternative securing means for container
190 with threads 205 formed on the perimeter of bottle 203, i.e.,
just below shoulder 206, which engage threads 204 on an upper
portion 202 of container 190. Instead of an internal edge 194, this
embodiment has internal threads 204 extended around the upper
portion 202 thereof, which are adapted to be connected to threads
205 extended just below shoulder 206 on bottle 203. An upper edge
208 of container 190 is preferably adapted to be pressed and sealed
against an abutment portion 207 on bottle 203, such that space 196
between bottle 203 and container 190 can be substantially sealed
thereby. Upper edge 208 is preferably adapted with a slightly
upwardly and outwardly extended flange that can be resiliently
pressed against abutment portion 207, such that the tightening of
bottle 203 into container 190 can progressively tighten the seal.
Abutment portion 207 preferably has a diameter that is larger than
the rest of bottle 203 below it, such that bottle 203 can be
rotated into container 190 through opening 193, and be supported by
the engagement of upper edge 208 and abutment portion 207. Bottle
203 can be held relatively securely with no need for supports.
[0046] The embodiment 210 shown in FIGS. 9a and 9b comprises a
container 212, threaded cap 214, handle 216, and lower section 218,
etc. In this embodiment, the lower support 220 is pushed up from
floor 217 in a curved manner, wherein floor 217 is otherwise formed
in a bowl-like shape. The support 220, in such case, can be similar
to the one shown in FIG. 10a, i.e., with five ridges 222 equally
spaced apart and adapted to fit into five grooves on bottle 211.
This way, when bottle 211 is inserted into container 212 and held
in substantial compression inside container 212 between cap 214 and
support 220, bottle 211 can be prevented from rotating. In other
embodiments, multiple supports like 292 discussed above can be
provided which fit into each of the grooves on the bottom of bottle
211.
[0047] The bowl-shaped floor 217 is designed to displace ice
particles, which can be added to container 212 before bottle 211 is
inserted, wherein bottle 211 can then be shoved into the ice.
Inserting bottle 211 into the ice will cause ice at the bottom of
the container 212 to be displaced upward due to the bowl-like
curvature of floor 217. Lower section 218 can be hollowed out
underneath 219 and extended down to provide support for container
212. Floor 217 can be made relatively flat 230, as shown in FIG.
10b, with a plurality of indentations 232.
[0048] Container 212 is preferably injection molded with a slight
upward and outwardly angled pitch, as shown in FIG. 9a. This
further assists in causing the ice to be displaced upward when
bottle 211 is shoved into the ice. This embodiment preferably has a
widened neck to enable ice to be added after bottle 211 is
positioned on support 220. Cap 214 can be designed with web-like
members 215 to provide strength and rigidity if desired, and grips
213 can be provided. While this embodiment is preferably injection
molded, container 212 can be blow-molded, with a relatively narrow
neck, if desired.
[0049] A cap design is shown in FIGS. 11a and 11b. This cap 240 has
sealing member 242 extended around opening 246, and a sealing
gasket 244 within groove 248. Engaging surface 243 is designed to
be pressed directly against the shoulder of a bottle represented by
dashed line 256 in FIG. 11b. Projection 252 is designed to brace
and hold sealing member 242, although this is not necessary when
sealing member is bonded or fused to cap 240. Projection 254 is
designed to support sealing member 242, and provide a pinching
effect when sealing member 242 is pressed against bottle 256.
Projection 254 helps prevent bottles having higher and/or wider
shoulder areas, as represented by dashed line 260, from being
properly held inside if necessary. Line 258 shows how a bottle
having a lower and/or narrower shoulder area can allow water to
leak, since engaging surface 243 would not make contact with the
bottle. These methods can be used by beverage companies and sellers
that are interested in making coolers for specific bottled beverage
products, as a means of promoting those products, as discussed
above.
[0050] It can be seen that different caps similar to cap 240 can be
made to accommodate bottles of different sizes and shapes, even if
the same container is used. Different caps can be made to
accommodate different bottles using the same container. Different
size and shape removable sealing members 242 and sealing gaskets
244 can also be used to accommodate different bottles.
[0051] Each cap and container is preferably made from a moldable
plastic, such as polyethylene, HDPE, polypropylene, PET, PVC,
polystyrene, polycarbonate, etc., although any conventional
material, such as stainless steel, glass, ceramic, etc., can be
used. The containers can be made of materials that conduct heat
poorly, or with double wall construction, or they can be made of a
relatively thick or rigid plastic. The thickness preferably
provides rigidity and a sufficient level of insulating properties,
although any thickness that provides the necessary support can be
used. Some pieces can be injection molded, while some can be
blow-molded.
[0052] Other steps preferably involved in making caps and
containers include measuring and/or scanning the bottle to obtain
precise shapes and dimensions. Three-dimensional digital scanning
can be done on equipment designed for this purpose. This enables
the cap and container, and any engaging portion, such as sealing
members, edges, surfaces, and supports, to be adapted precisely to
a particular bottle, so that the bottle can be held in the
container in substantial compression and substantially
leak-free.
[0053] The present invention also contemplates that bottles can be
custom made to fit the container, i.e., with surfaces that engage
the sealing member and supports, if desired. The bottles can be
made in a predetermined size and shape, and the containers can be
designed so that the bottle will fit properly in the containers.
Textures, grips and/or indentations can also be provided for
improved grip. The containers can have a handle, although a strap,
or indented grips, can also be used. One or both pieces can be made
of transparent or translucent material so that the contents can be
seen from outside. When double walls are used both can be clear, or
one can be clear and the other opaque or translucent. Indicator
lines can be provided on those embodiments where the upper portion
is narrowed to indicate how much ice should be used in the
container before inserting the bottle.
[0054] When these embodiments are used for promotional or souvenir
purposes, the names and logos of beverage companies and/or sellers
of beverages can be printed and used. The present invention
contemplates that they can be used to promote the products and
services of the beverage company and/or seller whose names and/or
logos are printed on them. The present invention encompasses a
method wherein one beverage company, including manufacturers,
bottlers, suppliers, etc., or beverage seller, can use the bottle
cooler to increase sales and market share of its bottled beverage
products at the expense of its competitors. Because certain
embodiments of the present bottle cooler discussed above can be
made so that only one or a select type of bottle can fit properly,
by promoting that bottle cooler, i.e., getting people to try it and
like it, a beverage company can use the bottle cooler as a means of
increasing sales of its bottled beverage products, i.e., those that
fit in the cooler. Consumers will have to buy bottled beverage
products that fit the bottle cooler if they want to use the bottle
cooler to keep their beverages cold, because only those bottles
will work properly with the bottle cooler. Buying any other bottled
product made by any other company would make it so that the bottle
cooler cannot be used.
[0055] As shown in FIGS. 12a, 12b, 12c and 12d, a alternative type
cooler with container 2 is designed to hold a specific PET bottle
4, but instead of forming a space for ice, the wall 6 is extended
out a predetermined distance to form a gap 7 to hold a removable
cooling means 8, such as a plurality of sleeves or rings 9 filled
with a refrigerant, as shown in FIG. 12a, that can be positioned
around bottle 4. The opening 10 is preferably wide enough to allow
both bottle 4, as well as cooling means 8, to be inserted into
container 2.
[0056] A lower surface 16 of container 2 is preferably shaped to
allow a specific bottle 4 to fit inside, with contours 18 that are
adapted to engage and/or mate with grooved contours on the bottom
of bottle 4. The present invention contemplates forming surface 16
so that it engages and/or mates with grooves on bottle 4 to prevent
bottle 4 from rotating. This way, once bottle 4 is inserted, and
cap 12 is tightened over bottle 4, the engagement of the contoured
surfaces will prevent bottle 4 from rotating, thereby allowing the
bottle's lid to be twisted on and off without the bottle 4 spinning
inside.
[0057] Cap 12 is similar to the other caps discussed above, with an
opening 13 for extending the neck of bottle 4 through, and threads
15 or other securing means for securing cap 12 onto container 2. In
this embodiment, however, no sealing member is needed around
opening 13, and no gasket or other sealing means is needed to seal
cap 12 onto container 2, since no water will be placed in gap
7.
[0058] Cap 12, nevertheless, is preferably sized and shaped to
properly secure a particular bottle 4 having a predetermined size
and shape into container 2. The inside surface of cap 12 that
engages the shoulder of bottle 4 can be adapted to press against
the shoulder to properly secure bottle 4 in place.
[0059] Likewise, when it is desirable to use this embodiment to
promote specific beverage products, it can be designed so that
other bottles having different sizes and/or shapes will not fit
properly. For example, opening 13 on cap 12 can be made wide enough
to fit bottle 4, but not other bottles having a wider neck or lid.
Moreover, other bottles may be too tall, or too short, to fit
properly, wherein cap 12 can be adapted to fit bottle 4, but with
other bottles, cap 12 may not fit properly, or allow the bottle to
move and shift around inside container 2. It is a goal of the
invention to maintain bottle 4 in a substantially fixed position,
but also to allow a beverage company or seller of beverages to use
the cooler as a means of promoting a particular bottled beverage
product, as discussed above.
[0060] Rings 9 are preferably removable, refreezable and can slide
over and around bottle 4 to fit into gap 7 between bottle 4 and
wall 6 prior to attaching cap 12. In one version, rings 9 are
designed to be slightly wider than bottle 4, so that after the
rings 9 are placed in the freezer, and bottle 4 is inserted into
container 2, rings 9 can easily slide down onto bottle 4 and
inserted into gap 7. Alternatively, rings 9 can be made so that
they fit relatively snug around bottle 4, so that they can be
placed around bottle 4 before being inserted into container 2,
wherein they can be inserted into gap 7 together at the same
time.
[0061] In one embodiment, multiple rigid rings 9, as shown in FIG.
12b, filled with a refrigerant can be stacked on top of each other,
as shown in FIG. 12a. For example, rings 9 can be inserted into gap
7 between bottle 4 and wall 6, one at a time, until enough rings
are provided to fill gap 7. Rings 9 are preferably designed so that
a predetermined number of them can be stacked to fill gap 7, and
small enough so that they don't take up much space in the freezer.
At the same time, each one is preferably thick enough and formed
with an interior diameter sufficient to substantially fill gap 7,
to keep bottle 4 cold. Preferably, there are at least three rings 9
provided to fill the height of gap 7, although any number of rings
9 can be used.
[0062] In another embodiment, the ring 9 or rings can be made of a
flexible or semi-rigid material or a combination of flexible and
semi-rigid materials so that they can be laid relatively flat in
the freezer, as shown in FIGS. 12c and 12d. For example, the rings
9 can be laid flat and stored in the freezer, and then expanded
into the appropriate shape to fit relatively snug around the
exterior of bottle 4. The refrigerant can be encased in a flexible
bag-like material, or it can be encased in two or more sections 11,
as shown in FIGS. 12c and 12d, with predetermined flex points 14 in
between, wherein the plastic material can be pinched and/or thinned
to allow ring 9 to be flattened, and then expanded to fit over
bottle 4. The flexible or semi-rigid plastic is preferably formed
flat, but due to its flexibility, can be fitted around the bottle 4
like a tube. When flexible and/or semi-rigid materials are used,
the ring 9 can be a single member that can be fitted around bottle
4, instead of multiple rings, since it won't take up too much space
in the freezer. Other cooling means 8 that can fit around bottle 4
are also contemplated.
[0063] On the inside of container 2, there is preferably a stepped
portion 19 onto which the ring or rings 9 or other cooling means 8
can rest, such as just above the surface 16 that engages the bottom
of bottle 4. This way, the ring or rings 9 can be positioned above
the location where the surface 16 engages bottle 4, so that the
ring or rings 9 don't interfere with the bottle's supporting
means.
[0064] Container 2 can have a handle extending from the side or a
handle can extend from cap 12, etc. The lower end of container 2
can be narrowed below bottle 4 to fit a standard cup-holder, if
desired, or stepped portion 19 can be provided further up above, so
that a portion of the lower end of container 2 can be narrow enough
to fit standard cup-holders.
[0065] The container 2, cap 12, rings 9 or other cooling means 8
can be made of any conventional material, such as plastic or
plastic-like material, using any standard molding method, such as
injection molding. The container 2 can be made using double wall
construction, if desired. Refrigerant for rings 9 can be any
conventional material, such as a refreezable gel. Flexible and/or
semi-rigid plastic materials can be used. The cooler can be made in
any size, to fit virtually any type of bottle.
[0066] The present invention also contemplates a bottle cooler made
of a flexible insulating material or fabric with one or more
zippers or foam sleeve material. In this embodiment, the cooler is
preferably designed to fit around the exterior of bottle 4, with an
opening at the top to allow the bottle's neck to extend through. A
zipper can be provided along an upper narrowed section, such that
when it is unzipped, it enables the bottle to be inserted into the
cooler, and when zipped, it enables the upper section to be snugly
fitted over the shoulder of the bottle. This way, the bottle can be
securely held inside the cooler, and the beverage can be consumed
or poured from the bottle without taking the bottle out of the
cooler, and without the bottle sliding out. A material having a
high friction coefficient, such as rubber, can be coated on the
inside of the material surrounding the bottle, so that by grabbing
the outside of the material, the bottle can be prevented from
rotating inside.
[0067] In one such embodiment, cooling means similar to those
discussed above, such as ring 9 that extends around bottle 4, can
be used. In such case, the wall of the flexible cooler is
preferably formed to provide a space to allow rings 9 to be fitted
in between the bottle and wall. Rings 9 can be inserted after
bottle 4 is placed in the cooler, or, they can be fitted around
bottle 4 before the bottle is placed in the cooler. The cooler can
be made using insulating materials, including multiple layers, to
maintain the temperature of the rings 9 and bottle 4.
[0068] In another embodiment, a pouch or pouches can be used to
enable refreezable packs to be inserted therein. For example, the
pouch can have a series of pockets formed therein into which a
series of refrigerant packs formed in the shape of straight or
semi-cylindrical vertical slats can be inserted. Each pocket can be
sized to fit a single refrigerant pack, for example. One or more
zippers can be used to seal the pouch, with multiple pockets
inside, or each pocket can have its own zipper. The inside layer of
the pouch is preferably thin and provides good heat conducting
properties, while the outside layer is insulated to prevent heat
from penetrating into the pouch. The flexible cooler can be made of
a flexible fabric, plastic or fabric with plastic liner, etc., as
is known in the art. A strap can be provided to allow the flexible
cooler to be easily carried.
* * * * *