U.S. patent application number 11/441628 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-21 for baby bottle having a temperature sensitive valve.
Invention is credited to Jahangir S. Rastegar, Thomas Spinelli.
Application Number | 20060283856 11/441628 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26991139 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060283856 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Spinelli; Thomas ; et
al. |
December 21, 2006 |
Baby bottle having a temperature sensitive valve
Abstract
A valve for preventing the flow of fluid when the temperature of
the fluid is above a predetermined threshold, the valve including:
a body having at least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass
when the temperature of the fluid is below the predetermined
threshold; and a shape memory or bi-metal actuator for
substantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature
of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the
fluid from passing.
Inventors: |
Spinelli; Thomas; (East
Northport, NY) ; Rastegar; Jahangir S.; (Stony Brook,
NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Thomas Spinelli
2 Sipala Court
East Northport
NY
11731
US
|
Family ID: |
26991139 |
Appl. No.: |
11/441628 |
Filed: |
May 26, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10338329 |
Jan 8, 2003 |
|
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11441628 |
May 26, 2006 |
|
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60346551 |
Jan 8, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/201 ;
220/714; 229/404; 229/906.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 19/2272 20130101;
Y10T 137/7737 20150401; A47G 21/18 20130101; E03C 1/041 20130101;
A61J 11/002 20130101; Y10T 137/1963 20150401; A47G 2400/027
20130101; F16K 17/38 20130101; A47G 2200/163 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/201 ;
220/714; 229/404; 229/906.1 |
International
Class: |
B65D 55/00 20060101
B65D055/00; A47G 19/22 20060101 A47G019/22; B65D 3/00 20060101
B65D003/00 |
Claims
1-19. (canceled)
20. A baby bottle comprising: a bottle portion having a cavity for
holding a fluid; a nipple portion disposed on the bottle portion
and in fluid communication with the cavity, the nipple portion
having a nipple which when suckled dispenses the fluid; and a valve
disposed between the bottle and nipple portions, the valve having a
body having at least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass
from the bottle portion to the nipple portion of the baby bottle
when the temperature of the fluid is below a predetermined
threshold, the valve further having an actuator for substantially
closing the at least one opening when the temperature of the fluid
is above the predetermined threshold to substantially prevent the
fluid from passing from the bottle portion to the nipple
portion.
21. The baby bottle of claim 20, wherein the body of the valve is
disk shaped and the valve is disposed between an upper lip of the
bottle portion and a flange of the nipple portion.
22. The baby bottle of claim 21, wherein the at least one opening
comprises a plurality of openings.
23. The baby bottle of claim 22, wherein at least some of the
plurality of openings are arranged annularly about the disc.
24. The baby bottle of claim 53, wherein the shape memory actuator
comprises a flap corresponding to the at least one opening, the
flap being at least partially fabricated from the shape memory
material and having a shape at a temperature below the
predetermined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least
one opening, the flap having a shape at a temperature above the
predetermined threshold such that it substantially occludes the at
least one opening to substantially prevent the passage of fluid
from the bottle portion to the nipple portion.
25. The baby bottle of claim 24, wherein the shape memory material
exhibits a two-way memory such that it has a first shape below the
predetermined threshold so as not to occlude the at least one
opening and has a second shape above the predetermined threshold so
as to substantially occlude the at least one opening.
26. The baby bottle of claim 53, wherein the shape memory actuator
comprises a flap corresponding to the at least one opening, the
flap being at least partially fabricated from the shape memory
material and having a cupped shape at a temperature below the
predetermined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least
one opening, the flap having a flat shape at a temperature above
the predetermined threshold such that it substantially occludes the
at least one opening to substantially prevent the passage of fluid
from the bottle portion to the nipple portion.
27. The baby bottle of claim 26, wherein the shape memory material
exhibits a two-way memory such that it has the cupped shape below
the predetermined threshold so as not to occlude the at least one
opening and has the flat shape above the predetermined threshold so
as to substantially occlude the at least one opening.
28. The baby bottle of claim 20, further comprising a seal disposed
between the body and the actuator.
29-52. (canceled)
53. The baby bottle of claim 20, wherein the actuator comprises a
shape memory actuator having a shape memory material.
Description
CROSS REFERNCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application 60/346,551 filed on Jan. 8, 2002, the entire contents
of which is incorporated herein by its reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to a safety valve
for containers of hot fluids, and more particularly, to a safety
valve for coffee containers and baby bottles which automatically
prevent the dispensing of a fluid that has a temperature greater
than a threshold temperature.
[0004] 2. Prior Art
[0005] Many people are burned by hot coffee, tea, and hot chocolate
drank from travel mugs and disposable coffee cups. Similarly, many
people are burned from hot soup eaten from disposable containers.
Furthermore, babies are sometimes burned by drinking baby formula
that has been heated using a microwave oven or by boiling. Still
others, particularly children, are burned by scolding hot water
from a shower, sink, or bathtub.
[0006] There are currently no devices known in the art for
preventing people from being burned from drinking or eating hot
fluids from containers, particularly disposable containers and baby
bottles. With regard to disposable containers, such a device must
be reliable and inexpensive since it should also be disposable.
With regard to the baby bottles, such a device should also be
reliable and must also be able to withstand repeated
sterilizations.
[0007] There are also devices known in the art for preventing
scolding hot water from being dispensed in the bathtub, shower, and
sink. However, these devices are generally complicated and
expensive.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] Therefore it is an object of the present invention to
provide a safety valve for containers of hot liquids, which
prevents the hot liquid from being dispensed if the hot liquid has
a temperature, which could be harmful to a user of the
container.
[0009] It is another object of the present invention to provide
such safety valves, which are capable of withstanding repeated
sterilizations.
[0010] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a safety valve to prevent scolding hot water from being dispensed
into a bathtub, sink, and shower.
[0011] It is still a further object of the present invention to
provide such safety valves, which are inexpensive to fabricate.
[0012] Accordingly, a lid for a container of a hot fluid is
provided. The lid comprises: a surface having an opening for
dispensing the hot fluid; and a valve having an open position for
dispensing the hot fluid and a closed position for substantially
stopping the flow of the hot fluid from the container when a
temperature of the hot fluid is more than a predetermined threshold
temperature, the valve having a shape memory actuator which changes
its shape in response to the hot fluid having a temperature above
the threshold temperature to actuate the valve into the closed
position.
[0013] Preferably, the lid further comprises means for attaching
the lid to the container. Where the container is a cup having a
cavity defined by a wall and a peripheral rim, the means for
attaching the lid to the cup preferably comprises a lipped surface
extending from the surface that sealingly engages the peripheral
rim of the cup.
[0014] The valve preferably comprises a flap rotatably disposed on
the lid by a hinge between the open and closed positions, wherein
in the closed position, the flap covers the opening and
substantially stops the flow of hot fluid from the cup, the shape
memory actuator being disposed at the hinge to rotate the flap upon
the change in shape. The opening preferably comprises a push-in tab
defined by a perforation in the lid, which when pushed into the lid
forms the opening.
[0015] Also provided is a container of a hot fluid. The container
comprises: at least one wall defining a cavity for holding the hot
fluid; a lid disposed on the wall to enclose the cavity, the lid
having a surface, the surface having an opening for dispensing the
hot fluid; and a valve disposed on one of the wall or lid, the
valve having an open position for dispensing the hot fluid and a
closed position for substantially stopping the flow of the hot
fluid from the container when a temperature of the hot fluid is
more than a predetermined threshold temperature, the valve having a
shape memory actuator which changes its shape in response to the
hot fluid having a temperature above the threshold temperature to
actuate the valve into the closed position.
[0016] The container preferably further comprises means for
attaching the lid to the container. Where the container is a cup
and having a peripheral rim in fluid communication with the cavity,
the means for attaching the lid to the cup comprises a lipped
surface extending from the surface of the lid that sealingly
engages the peripheral rim of the cup.
[0017] The valve preferably comprises a flap rotatably disposed on
one of the wall or lid by a hinge between the open and closed
positions, wherein in the closed position, the flap covers the
opening and substantially stops the flow of hot fluid from the cup,
the shape memory actuator being disposed at the hinge to rotate the
flap upon the change in shape. Preferably, the opening comprises a
push-in tab defined by a perforation in the lid, which when pushed
into the lid forms the opening.
[0018] Still provided is a valve for preventing the dispensing of
fluid from a baby bottle when the temperature of the fluid is above
a predetermined threshold. The valve comprises: a body having at
least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass from a bottle
portion of the baby bottle to a nipple portion of the baby bottle
when the temperature of the fluid is below the predetermined
threshold; and a shape memory actuator for substantially closing
the at least one opening when the temperature of the fluid is above
the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing from
the bottle portion to the nipple portion.
[0019] Preferably, the body is disk shaped the at least one opening
comprises a plurality of openings. Preferably, at least some of the
plurality of openings are arranged annularly about the disc.
[0020] The actuator preferably comprises a flap corresponding to
the at least one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape
memory material and having a shape at a temperature below the
determined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least one
opening, the flap having a shape at a temperature above the
determined threshold such that it does occlude the at least one
opening to prevent the passage of fluid from the bottle portion to
the nipple portion. The flap is preferably fabricated from a shape
memory material that exhibits a two-way memory such that it has a
first shape below the predetermined threshold so as not to occlude
the at least one opening and has a second shape above the
predetermined threshold so as to occlude the at least one
opening.
[0021] Alternatively, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding
to the at least one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape
memory material and having a cupped shape at a temperature below
the determined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least
one opening, the flap having a flat shape at a temperature above
the determined threshold such that it does occlude the at least one
opening to prevent the passage of fluid from the bottle portion to
the nipple portion. The flap is preferably fabricated from a shape
memory material that exhibits a two-way memory such that it has the
cupped shape below the predetermined threshold so as not to occlude
the at least one opening and has the flat shape above the
predetermined threshold so as to occlude the at least one
opening.
[0022] Still provided is a baby bottle comprising: a bottle portion
having a cavity for holding a fluid; a nipple portion disposed on
the bottle portion and in fluid communication with the cavity, the
nipple portion having a nipple which when suckled dispenses the
fluid; and a valve disposed between the bottle and nipple portions,
the valve having a body having at least one opening for allowing
the fluid to pass from the bottle portion to the nipple portion of
the baby bottle when the temperature of the fluid is below a
predetermined threshold, the valve further having a shape memory
actuator for substantially closing the at least one opening when
the temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold
to prevent the fluid from passing from the bottle portion to the
nipple portion.
[0023] The body of the valve is preferably disk shaped and the
valve is disposed between an upper lip of the bottle portion and a
flange of the nipple portion. Preferably, the at least one opening
comprises a plurality of openings where at least some of the
plurality of openings are arranged annularly about the disc.
[0024] Preferably, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding to
the at least one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape
memory material and having a shape at a temperature below the
determined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least one
opening, the flap having a shape at a temperature above the
determined threshold such that it does occlude the at least one
opening to prevent the passage of fluid from the bottle portion to
the nipple portion. The flap is preferably fabricated from a shape
memory material that exhibits a two-way memory such that it has a
first shape below the predetermined threshold so as not to occlude
the at least one opening and has a second shape above the
predetermined threshold so as to occlude the at least one
opening.
[0025] Alternatively, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding
to the at least one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape
memory material and having a cupped shape at a temperature below
the determined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least
one opening, the flap having a flat shape at a temperature above
the determined threshold such that it does occlude the at least one
opening to prevent the passage of fluid from the bottle portion to
the nipple portion. The flap is preferably fabricated from a shape
memory material that exhibits a two-way memory such that it has the
cupped shape below the predetermined threshold so as not to occlude
the at least one opening and has the flat shape above the
predetermined threshold so as to occlude the at least one
opening.
[0026] Still provided is a valve for preventing the flow of fluid
from an outlet when the temperature of the fluid is above a
predetermined threshold. The valve comprises: a body having at
least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass through the outlet
when the temperature of the fluid is below the predetermined
threshold; and a shape memory actuator for substantially closing
the at least one opening when the temperature of the fluid is above
the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing
through the outlet. Preferably, the body is disk shaped and the at
least one opening comprises a plurality of openings where at least
some of the plurality of openings are arranged annularly about the
disc.
[0027] The actuator preferably comprises a flap corresponding to
the at least one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape
memory material and having a shape at a temperature below the
determined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least one
opening, the flap having a shape at a temperature above the
determined threshold such that it does occlude the at least one
opening to prevent the passage of fluid through the outlet. The
flap is preferably fabricated from a shape memory material that
exhibits a two-way memory such that it has a first shape below the
predetermined threshold so as not to occlude the at least one
opening and has a second shape above the predetermined threshold so
as to occlude the at least one opening.
[0028] Alternatively, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding
to the at least one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape
memory material and having a cupped shape at a temperature below
the determined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least
one opening, the flap having a flat shape at a temperature above
the determined threshold such that it does occlude the at least one
opening to prevent the passage of fluid through the outlet. The
flap is preferably fabricated from a shape memory material that
exhibits a two-way memory such that it has the cupped shape below
the predetermined threshold so as not to occlude the at least one
opening and has the flat shape above the predetermined threshold so
as to occlude the at least one opening.
[0029] Still provided is a valve for preventing the flow of fluid
when the temperature of the fluid is above a predetermined
threshold. The valve comprises: a body having at least one opening
for allowing the fluid to pass when the temperature of the fluid is
below the predetermined threshold; and a shape memory actuator for
substantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature
of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the
fluid from passing. Preferably, the body is disk shaped and the at
least one opening comprises a plurality of openings in which case
at least some of the plurality of openings are preferably arranged
annularly about the disc.
[0030] Preferably, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding to
the at least one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape
memory material and having a shape at a temperature below the
determined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least one
opening, the flap having a shape at a temperature above the
determined threshold such that it does occlude the at least one
opening to prevent the passage of fluid. Preferably, the flap is
fabricated from a shape memory material that exhibits a two-way
memory such that it has a first shape below the predetermined
threshold so as not to occlude the at least one opening and has a
second shape above the predetermined threshold so as to occlude the
at least one opening.
[0031] Alternatively, the actuator comprises a flap corresponding
to the at least one opening, the flap being fabricated from a shape
memory material and having a cupped shape at a temperature below
the determined threshold such that it does not occlude the at least
one opening, the flap having a flat shape at a temperature above
the determined threshold such that it does occlude the at least one
opening to prevent the passage of fluid. Preferably, the flap is
fabricated from a shape memory material that exhibits a two-way
memory such that it has the cupped shape below the predetermined
threshold so as not to occlude the at least one opening and has the
flat shape above the predetermined threshold so as to occlude the
at least one opening.
[0032] Preferably, the valve further comprises a seal disposed
between a surface of the body and the actuator for sealing the flow
of fluid.
[0033] Still provided is a coupling for placement in a fluid
conduit. The coupling comprises: a coupling body having an inlet
end and an outlet end; and a valve disposed in the coupling body
for preventing the flow of fluid from the outlet end when the
temperature of the fluid is above a predetermined threshold, the
valve having a valve body having at least one opening for allowing
the fluid to pass through the outlet end when the temperature of
the fluid is below the predetermined threshold, and a shape memory
actuator for substantially closing the at least one opening when
the temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold
to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet end.
[0034] Still provided is a faucet outlet fitting for preventing the
flow of fluid from the outlet when the temperature of the fluid is
above a predetermined threshold. The fitting comprises: a fitting
body having a conduit in fluid communication with the outlet and a
threaded portion for fastening to a mating threaded portion on the
outlet; and a valve, the valve having a valve body having at least
one opening for allowing the fluid to pass through the outlet when
the temperature of the fluid is below the predetermined threshold;
and a shape actuator for substantially closing the at least one
opening when the temperature of the fluid is above the
predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing through
the outlet.
[0035] Still provided is a showerhead for preventing the flow of
fluid from a shower outlet when the temperature of the fluid is
above a predetermined threshold. The showerhead comprises: a
showerhead body having a conduit in fluid communication with the
outlet and a threaded portion for fastening to a mating threaded
portion on the outlet; and a valve, the valve having a valve body
having at least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass through
the outlet when the temperature of the fluid is below the
predetermined threshold; and a shape memory actuator for
substantially closing the at least one opening when the temperature
of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold to prevent the
fluid from passing through the outlet.
[0036] Still further provided is a straw for preventing the flow of
fluid when the temperature of the fluid is above a predetermined
threshold. The straw comprising: a valve having an open position
for dispensing the hot fluid and a closed position for
substantially stopping the flow of the hot fluid from the container
when a temperature of the hot fluid is more than a predetermined
threshold temperature, the valve having a shape memory actuator
which changes its shape in response to the hot fluid having a
temperature above the threshold temperature to actuate the valve
into the closed position.
[0037] Still yet provided is a valve for preventing the flow of
fluid when the temperature of the fluid is above a predetermined
threshold. The valve comprising: a body having at least one opening
for allowing the fluid to pass when the temperature of the fluid is
below the predetermined threshold; and a shape memory or bi-metal
actuator for substantially closing the at least one opening when
the temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold
to prevent the fluid from passing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0038] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the
apparatus and methods of the present invention will become better
understood with regard to the following description, appended
claims, and accompanying drawings where:
[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates a sectional view of a first lid
configuration attached to a container, the first lid having a
preferred implementation of a safety valve of the present invention
for lids having the first configuration, wherein the safety valve
is in an open position.
[0040] FIG. 2 illustrates a partial sectional view of the lid and
container of FIG. 1 wherein the safety valve is in the closed
position.
[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of the lid of FIG. 2.
[0042] FIG. 4 illustrates a partial sectional view taken along line
4-4 in FIG. 3.
[0043] FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of a second lid configuration,
the second lid having a preferred implementation of a safety valve
of the present invention for lids having the second configuration,
wherein the safety valve is in an initial closed position.
[0044] FIG. 6 illustrates a sectional view of taken along line 6-6
in FIG. 5.
[0045] FIG. 7 illustrates the sectional view of FIG. 5 in which the
safety valve is in an open position.
[0046] FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view of a baby bottle
configuration having a preferred implementation of a safety valve
of the present invention for baby bottles having such a
configuration, the safety valve being shown in an open
position.
[0047] FIG. 9 illustrates a partial sectional view of the baby
bottle of FIG. 8 in which the safety valve is shown in a closed
position.
[0048] FIG. 10 illustrates a top view of a first version of the
safety valve of FIGS. 8 and 9.
[0049] FIG. 11 illustrates a sectional view of the valve of FIG. 10
taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10.
[0050] FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of a second version of the
safety valve of FIGS. 8 and 9.
[0051] FIG. 13 illustrates a sectional view of the valve of FIG. 12
taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12.
[0052] FIG. 14 illustrates a sectional view of an outlet end of a
faucet having a safety valve of the present invention.
[0053] FIG. 15 illustrates a sectional view of an outlet end of a
showerhead having a safety valve of the present invention.
[0054] FIG. 16 illustrates a sectional view of a coupling having a
safety valve of the present invention.
[0055] FIG. 17 illustrates a sectional valve of an outlet end of a
faucet having two safety valves and a means for disengaging one of
the safety valves.
[0056] FIG. 18 illustrates a sectional view of a straw having a
safety valve insert.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0057] Although this invention is applicable to numerous and
various types of containers and lids, it has been found
particularly useful in the environment of disposable coffee
container and lids therefore, for baby bottles, and for plumbing
fittings. Therefore, without limiting the applicability of the
invention to disposable coffee container and lids therefore, for
baby bottles, and for plumbing fittings, the invention will be
described in such environment.
[0058] Furthermore, although this invention is applicable to
different types of actuators, it has been found particularly useful
in the environment of shape memory actuators. Therefore, without
limiting the applicability of the invention to shape memory
actuators, the invention will be described in such environment. For
instance, the safety valves described herein can alternatively use
a bi-metal actuator which changes shape due to a difference in
thermal expansion of the metal comprising the bi-metal strip.
[0059] Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, there is shown a first variation
of a lid 100 for a container 102 of a hot fluid. The container can
be a travel mug, a disposable coffee container or any other
container for holding a hot fluid. The container 102 has at least
one wall 104 defining a cavity 106 for holding the hot fluid where
the lid 100 is disposed on the wall 104 to enclose the cavity 106.
The container 102 further has a bottom 108.
[0060] The lid 100 has a means to attach to the container 102. The
container 102 is preferably a cup, such as a disposable Styrofoam
coffee cup where the wall 104 has a peripheral rim 110. The means
for attaching the lid 100 to the container 102 preferably comprises
a lipped surface 112 extending from a surface 114 of the lid 100
that sealingly engages the peripheral rim 112. Such sealing means
are well known in the art of disposable coffee cups.
[0061] The surface 114 of the lid 100 has an opening 116 for
dispensing the hot fluid. The opening is generally oval shaped, but
could be any other shape, such as rectangular or circular without
departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention. A
valve 118 is provided and has an open position shown in FIG. 1 for
dispensing the hot fluid and a closed position shown in FIG. 2 for
substantially stopping the flow of the hot fluid from the container
102 when a temperature of the hot fluid is greater than a
predetermined threshold temperature. Preferably, the valve 118 has
a shape memory actuator 120 that changes its shape in response to
the hot fluid having a temperature above the threshold temperature
to actuate the valve 118 into the closed position.
[0062] Although many shape-memory materials may be used, a
nickel-titanium alloy (NiTi) is suitable. One such NiTi alloy is
manufactured, for example, by Shape Memory Applications, Inc.,
Santa Clara, Calif. In general, metallic shape-memory alloys, such
as NiTi, CuZnAl, and CuAlNi alloys, undergo a transformation in
their crystal structure when cooled from the high-temperature
austenite form, which is generally stronger, to the low-temperature
martensite form, which is weaker. When a shape-memory material is
in its martensitic form, it is easily deformed to a new shape.
However, when the material is heated through its transformation
temperature, it reverts to austenite and recovers its previous
shape with great force. The temperature at which the material
reverses its high temperature form when heated can be adjusted by
slight changes in material composition and through heat treatment.
The shape-memory process can be made to occur over a range of a few
degrees, if necessary, and the shape transition can be made to
occur millions of times. Heating of the shape memory actuator is
accomplished by the transfer of heat from the hot fluid in the
container 102.
[0063] Some shape-memory materials can be made to exhibit
shape-memory only upon heating (one-way shape-memory), or also can
undergo a shape change upon cooling (two-way shape memory).
Shape-memory materials are available in many forms including, for
example, wires, rods, ribbons, strips, sheets, and microtubing, and
can be used to fabricate shape-memory structures having linear,
planar and composite forms.
[0064] In the lid 100 configuration shown in FIGS. 1-4, the valve
118 preferably comprises a flap 122 rotatably disposed on the lid
100 by a hinge 124 between the open and closed positions. When in
the closed position as shown in FIG. 2, the flap 122 covers the
opening 116 and substantially stops the flow of hot fluid from the
container 102. Preferably, the shape memory actuator 120 is
disposed at the hinge 124 to rotate the flap 122 upon the change in
shape. The valve 118 also has a fixed member 126 adhered to the lid
100, preferably by a heat bond, however, other types of bonds, such
as an adhesive or chemical solvent bond can be used. The fixed
member 126 of the valve 118 is preferably adhered to a sidewall 128
of the lid 100. The flap 122 is then free to rotate about the hinge
124, which is preferably a living hinge where the fixed member 126,
hinge 124, and flap 122 are of integral construction. The valve 118
can optionally have a seal (not shown) between surface 122a of the
flap 122 and the lower surface 114a of the lid. Such a seal can be
an elastomer affixed or integrally formed on one of the flap
surface 122a or lower lid surface 114a. Alternatively, the seal can
be a lip (not shown) on one of the flap surface 122a or lower lid
surface 114a and corresponding notch (not shown) on the other of
the two surfaces 122a, 114a such that when in the closed position,
the lip engages the notch to form a seal.
[0065] The valve 118 preferably comprises one or more, preferably
two shape memory wires 130 which are disposed on the valve 118. The
wires 130 are preferably disposed on the lower surface 122a of the
flap, across the hinge 124, and on the lower surface 126a of the
fixed member 126. The wires 130 preferably have a "one-way" memory
such that when heated to above their transition temperature, they
try to take a straight shape and thus cause the flap 122 to rotate
about the hinge 124 to cover the opening 116. Although the wires
130 can be insert molded into the valve, they are preferably
adhered to the valve by any means known in the art, preferably a
sticker 132 is used to adhere the wires 130 to the valve 118, as is
shown in FIG. 4. If the container 102 is tilted to expose the wires
130 to the hot fluid and if the temperature of the hot fluid in the
container 102 is over the threshold temperature (i.e., the
transition temperature of the wires 130), the flap 122 will be
rotated to cover the opening 116, thereby avoiding a dangerous
situation, such as the hot fluid burning the mouth of the person
drinking from the container 102. When the temperature of the hot
fluid falls to a safe level, the flap 122 can be manually depressed
back into the open position shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, the
wires 130 can have a "two-way" memory such that they act to close
the valve 118 when heated above the threshold temperature and they
also act to open the valve 118 when they cool below the threshold
temperature. To facilitate heating the wires 130, an opening 123 is
preferably maintained between the flap 122 and fixed member 126 to
permit the hot fluid to contact the wires 130.
[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 5-7, there is shown a second
variation of a lid 200 for the container 102 of a hot fluid. The
second variation of the lid 200 is of the type that has a
perforated tab 202 that is preferably semi-circular in shape and
has a semi-circular perforation 204. The tab 202, when broken along
the perforation 204 and by pushing the tab into the container 102
in the direction of Arrow A assumes an open position as shown in
FIG. 7 to allow the hot fluid to be dispensed from the container
102. Preferably, the perforation is only defined along the top
surface 200a of the lid 200 and not on a side surface 200b of the
lid 200. When so configured, the tab 202 rotates about a living
hinge 202a to form the opening and cannot be completely removed
from the lid 200.
[0067] A flap 206, hinge 208, and fixed member 210, similar to that
described with regard to the first variation, is disposed on the
underside of the tab 202. The fixed member 210 is adhered to the
side surface 200b of the lid 200 such that the flap 206 can rotate
about the hinge 208. As is shown in FIGS. 5-7, the flap 206 extends
past the perforation 204. Like the first variation, a sticker 132
is adhered to the flap 206 and fixed member 210 to retain the shape
memory wires 130 therein. Preferably, three such wires 130 are
utilized in the second variation. Although the sticker 132 and
wires 130 can be adhered directly to the tab 202, it is preferred
to adhere them to the flap 126, which because it is extended past
the perforation 204, completely closes the opening 116 when the tab
202 and flap 206 are actuated into the closed position.
[0068] Although the safety valve is shown and discussed as being
integral with the coffee lid, those skilled in the art will
appreciate that it can also be configured as an insert and reused
with disposable lids or inserted into a reusable lid and reused
after each use. Furthermore, the safety valve can be integral with
or an insert to the coffee cup and adapted to cooperate with any
lid used thereon.
[0069] Also provided is a temperature sensitive valve for
preventing the flow of fluid when the temperature of the fluid is
above a predetermined threshold. In general, the valve comprises: a
body having at least one opening for allowing the fluid to pass
when the temperature of the fluid is below the predetermined
threshold; and a shape memory actuator for substantially closing
the at least one opening when the temperature of the fluid is above
the predetermined threshold to prevent the fluid from passing. The
shape memory actuator can be integrally formed with the body or
preferably disposed on the body by a fastening means, such as a
rivet, screw and nut, or although not preferred, by a tacked,
brazed, or welded connection.
[0070] Referring now to FIGS. 8-11, there is illustrated a first
variation of the valve, generally referred to by reference numeral
300. The valve 300 of the first variation is used to prevent the
dispensing of fluid from a baby bottle 302 when the temperature of
the fluid is above a predetermined threshold. The baby bottle 302
has a bottle portion 304 having a cavity 305 for holding a fluid,
such as baby formula. The baby bottle 302 further has a nipple
portion 306. The nipple portion 306 is disposed on the bottle
portion 304 and is in fluid communication with the cavity 305. The
nipple portion 304 having a nipple 307 which when suckled dispenses
the fluid. The nipple portion 306 is preferably fastened to the
bottle portion 304 by a threaded ring 308. The type of baby bottle
configuration shown is given by way of example only and not to
limit the scope and spirit of the present invention. Those skilled
in the art will realize that any type of baby bottle configuration
can be used with the valve 300 of the first variation of the
present invention.
[0071] The valve 300 has a body 310 having at least one opening 312
for allowing the fluid in the bottle portion 304 to pass from the
bottle portion 304 of the baby bottle to the nipple portion 306 of
the baby bottle when the temperature of the fluid is below the
predetermined threshold. The valve body 310 is preferably disk
shaped to fit in the mouth of the bottle portion 304 of the baby
bottle. Preferably, the valve 300 is retained in the mouth of the
baby bottle by sandwiching the body 310 between an upper lip 304a
of the bottle portion 304 and a flange 306a of the nipple portion
306. As shown in FIG. 11, a plurality of openings 312 are provided
in the body 312. Preferably, at least some of the plurality of
openings are arranged annularly about the disc. A preferred
configuration of openings 312 is illustrated in FIG. 10. These
openings 312 are arcuate slots arranged every 90 degrees about a
diameter D. The diameter D is chosen such that the entire openings
312 are within a mouth diameter Dm of the nipple portion 306 such
that the openings 312 are not occluded by the flange 306a of the
nipple portion 306.
[0072] The valve 300 further has a shape memory actuator 314 for
substantially closing the at least one opening 312 when the
temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined threshold to
prevent the fluid from passing from the bottle portion 304 to the
nipple portion 306. That is, the shape memory actuator 314 has an
open shape, shown in FIG. 8, to allow fluid to pass through the
openings 312 when the temperature of the fluid is below the
threshold and has a closed shape, shown in FIG. 11, which blocks
the openings 312 when the temperature of the fluid is above the
threshold. The shape memory actuator 314 is preferably, fabricated
from a shape memory material and is preferably shaped as is
illustrated in FIG. 10. Although other materials are possible, such
as a bimetal strip, shape memory materials are preferred for their
strength and for the large forces that can be attained when heated
to above their transition temperature. The shape memory actuator
314 is preferably affixed to the body 310 by a fastening means such
as a rivet 315, however, other fastening means are possible, such
as a screw and nut or a swaged post disposed in a hole. The shape
memory actuator 314 may also be spot welded, welded, or brazed to
the body 310, although the repeated actuation of the same may cause
such fastening means to fail over a period of time. Furthermore,
the body 310 and actuator 314 can be of a unitary construction. For
instance, the flaps 316 can be stamped from the body 310 to create
the openings 312.
[0073] The shape memory actuator 314 preferably has a flap 316
corresponding to each opening 312. The flaps 316 are sized and
shaped to cover the openings 312 when the shape memory actuator 314
is in the closed position (when the temperature of the fluid is
above the threshold or transition temperature) and sized and shaped
so as not to occlude the openings when the shape memory actuator
314 is in the open position (when the temperature of the fluid is
below the threshold or transition temperature). Alternatively, the
shape memory actuator 314 can be cup shaped, as is described below
with regard to other variations of the valve of the present
invention.
[0074] The shape memory actuator 314 is preferably fabricated from
a shape memory material which exhibits a two-way memory such that
it has the first open shape below the predetermined threshold so as
not to occlude the at least one opening and has the second closed
shape above the predetermined threshold so as to occlude the at
least one opening. Although not preferred, the shape memory
actuator 314 can also be fabricated from a shape memory material
that exhibits a one-way memory to only close when heated above the
predetermined threshold, in which case it would have to be manually
opened into the open position.
[0075] As shown in FIG. 11, the valve 300 may also have a seal
disposed between the body 310 and the actuator 314. Preferably, the
seal comprises a rubber or other elastomer coating 318 disposed on
at least the portions of the body 310 and actuator 314 that engage
when the actuator 314 is in the closed position. Preferably the
elastomer coating 318 covers all portions of the valve 300 and can
withstand repeated cleaning in a dishwasher. The rubber coating 318
may also have a seal ring 320 that facilitates the liquid seal
between the actuator 314 and the body 310. The seal ring 320 can
have any number of cross-sectional shapes including curved, square,
rectangular or triangular.
[0076] Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, there is shown a second
variation of the valve, generally referred to by reference numeral
400. The second variation of valve 400 is similar in construction
to the first variation valve 300 discussed above but has more
general applications, particularly in plumbing. In general, the
second variation of the valve 400 prevents the flow of fluid from
an outlet when the temperature of the fluid is above a
predetermined threshold or prevents the flow of fluid in a conduit
when the temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined
threshold. The valve generally comprises a body 402 having at least
one opening 404 for allowing the fluid to pass through the outlet
or conduit when the temperature of the fluid is below the
predetermined threshold. The valve 400 also has a shape memory
actuator 406 for substantially closing the at least one opening 404
when the temperature of the fluid is above the predetermined
threshold to prevent the fluid from passing through the outlet or
through the conduit.
[0077] As discussed above with regard to valve 300, the body 402 is
preferably disk shaped and the at least one opening 404 preferably
comprises a plurality of openings 404 preferably arranged annularly
about the disc body 402. Although the body 402 and actuator 406 can
be of unitary construction, as discussed above, it is preferred
that they comprise separate pieces and are joined with a fastening
means as discussed above, preferably by a rivet 408. Since, the
valve 400 has particular utility in plumbing, the body 402 is
preferably fabricated from standard plumbing materials, such as
copper, and may even be coated with standard plumbing coatings,
such as chrome. Also like the valve 300 discussed above, the valve
400 has a sealing means to seal the flow of fluid when the actuator
406 is in the closed position. Preferably the sealing means
comprises an o-ring 410 disposed in a corresponding groove 412 on a
surface 402a of the body 402 that engages the actuator 406 when the
actuator 406 is in the closed position. The sealing means may also
comprise an elastomer coating on one or both of the actuator 406
and body 402, as discussed above with regard to valve 300.
[0078] The valve 400 is preferably positioned in the conduit or
outlet such that fluid pressure aids in keeping the actuator 406 in
the closed position when the fluid temperature is above the
predetermined threshold. The shape of the actuator 406 for the
valve 400 of the second variation is preferably cup shaped,
although the flap shape discussed above with regard to valve 300
may also be utilized. The cup shaped actuator 406 preferably is
concave when below its transition temperature (i.e., below the
predetermined threshold temperature) and flat shaped when below the
transition temperature. When concave, the actuator 406 does not
occlude the openings 404 to permit fluid flow through the valve
400. When flat, the actuator 406 occludes the openings 404 to stop
or block the fluid flow through the valve 400. As discussed above,
the actuator 406 is preferably a shape memory material but can also
be a bi-metal strip. Furthermore, the actuator 406 preferably
exhibits two-way memory such that it has the cup shape when below
its transition temperature and has the flat shape when above its
transition temperature.
[0079] Although, the valve has particular utility for liquids, it
may also be used to stop the flow of gases when the temperature of
the gas is over the predetermined threshold. Furthermore, other
shapes in both the open and closed positions are possible for the
actuator 406. It only being necessary for the actuator 406 to block
the openings 404 in one shape and to unblock the openings 404 in
another shape.
[0080] Referring now to FIG. 14, there is shown the valve 400
utilized in a faucet 500 and preferably part of an outlet fitting
502 for the outlet 508 of the faucet 500. The outlet fitting 502 is
used to prevent the flow of fluid from the outlet 508 when the
temperature of the fluid is above a predetermined threshold. The
outlet fitting 502 can be utilized for a faucet used with a sink or
a bathtub or for other uses to prevent the fluid exiting the outlet
508 from being too hot. The fitting 502 comprises a fitting body
504 having a conduit 506 in fluid communication with the outlet 508
and a threaded portion 510 for fastening to a mating threaded
portion 512 on the outlet 508. The valve 400 is disposed in the
fitting 502 such that when the actuator 406 is closed to occlude
the openings 404, the fluid is prevented from flowing from the
outlet 508. Preferably, the body 504 of the outlet fitting 502 has
a stepped portion 514 for sandwiching the valve 400 between the
stepped portion 514 and a lip 516 of the outlet 508. As discussed
above, the valve 400 is preferably positioned with the actuator 406
on the pressurized side of the fluid flow such that the fluid flow
tends to aid in closing the actuator 406 when the temperature of
the fluid is above the predetermined threshold temperature. FIG. 15
illustrates the outlet fitting configured as a showerhead 502a for
preventing the flow of fluid from the showerhead when the
temperature of the fluid is greater than the predetermined
threshold temperature. The outlet fitting or showerhead can also
contain a filter for filtering particulate matter from the fluid
flow, such as a mesh as is well known in the art.
[0081] Referring now to FIG. 16, there is shown a coupling 700 for
placement in a fluid conduit 702. The coupling 700 has a valve 400
disposed therein to prevent the flow of fluid in the conduit 702
when the temperature of the fluid is greater than the predetermined
threshold temperature. The coupling 700 comprises a coupling body
704 having an inlet end 706 and an outlet end 708. The inlet and
outlet ends 706, 708 can connect to the conduit 702 by any means
known in the art, such as by a threaded connection 703. The
coupling body can be fabricated from any plumbing material known in
the art, such as copper, brass, stainless steel, or PVC. The valve
is disposed in the coupling body to prevent the flow of hot fluids
from the outlet end 708. As discussed above, the valve 400 is
preferably positioned with the coupling 700 on the pressurized side
of the fluid flow such that the fluid flow tends to aid in closing
the actuator 406 when the temperature of the fluid is above the
predetermined threshold temperature.
[0082] Preferably, the valve 400 is retained in the coupling 700 by
sandwiching the same between a stepped portion 710 and a insert
712. The insert 712 is disposed in one of the outlet or inlet ends
706, 708 and facing the stepped portion 710. A seal (not shown) can
be provided between the valve body 402 and the coupling body 704 to
provide a fluid seal when the actuator 406 is in the closed
position. Such a seal can be an o-ring, gasket seal (not shown), or
tapered pipe threads. The insert 712 is preferably retained in the
body 704 by a threaded connection 714, however any other means for
retaining the insert 712 in the body 704 can be used, such as by a
weld or adhesive. Preferably, the insert 712 contains an undercut
716 such that its outer wall does not interfere with the inner wall
of the body 704.
[0083] Referring now to FIG. 17, there is shown one example of a
means for varying the threshold temperature at which the flow of
fluid is stopped. FIG. 17 illustrates a faucet 800 having an outlet
802. An outlet fitting 804, similar to the outlet fitting 502 as
discussed above is provided on the outlet end 802. However, the
outlet fitting 800 contains more than one valve 400a, 400b, two of
which are shown for simplicity. Valve 400a has a predetermined
threshold temperature of T1 which is less then the predetermined
threshold temperature T2 of the other valve 400b. A retaining means
is provided to retain the actuator of valve 400a in which case the
fluid flow is stopped when its temperature is above T2. The
retaining means is shown as one or more plungers 806 that can be
pushed into engagement with the actuator 406a of valve 400a to
prevent the actuator 406a from closing even where the fluid
temperature is above T1. The plungers 806 have a seal 808, such as
an o-ring to prevent fluid leakage. Those skilled in the art will
appreciate that many retaining means can be utilized without
departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. If the
retaining means is disengaged, the fluid flow will be stopped when
the fluid reaches the T1 temperature.
[0084] Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that other
configurations for varying the temperature at which the fluid flow
is stopped are possible. For instance, the outlet fitting can have
more than one valve, each of which has a different threshold
temperature at which the fluid flow is stopped. The valves are
disposed in an off-center turret design where one of the valves is
rotated into a position communicating with the outlet while the
others are not in communication with the outlet. In this way, one
can select the temperature at which they desire the fluid flow to
be stopped by rotating the proper valve into communication with the
outlet.
[0085] Referring now to FIG. 18, there is shown a straw, generally
referred to by reference numeral 900. The straw 900 having an
insert 902 disposed thereon, such as by a snug slip fit. The insert
902 having a safety valve 904 fitted therein, the safety valve 904
being shown schematically by dotted line. The safety valve 904 can
be configured in any of the ways described above, particularly with
regard to that described with the coffee lid. Although, the safety
valve 904 is shown incorporated into a reusable insert 902 that is
then fitted to the drinking end 900a of the straw 900, the safety
valve 904 can alternatively be integral with the straw 900 and
disposable with the straw 900. As liquid is sucked through the
straw 900 and through the safety valve 904 in the insert 902, if
the liquid is below a predetermined temperature, the liquid will
continue to flow into the person's mouth. However, if the
temperature of the liquid is too hot, i.e., it is above the
predetermined temperature, the safety valve will be activated as
discussed above to prevent any fluid flow to the person's
mouth.
[0086] While there has been shown and described what is considered
to be preferred embodiments of the invention, it will, of course,
be understood that various modifications and changes in form or
detail could readily be made without departing from the spirit of
the invention. It is therefore intended that the invention be not
limited to the exact forms described and illustrated, but should be
constructed to cover all modifications that may fall within the
scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *