U.S. patent application number 13/091051 was filed with the patent office on 2011-10-27 for adapter systems for glass containers, liquid containment systems, and associated methods of use.
Invention is credited to Paul Diegel, Jonny Jensen, Matthew Wright.
Application Number | 20110259846 13/091051 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44814908 |
Filed Date | 2011-10-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110259846 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Diegel; Paul ; et
al. |
October 27, 2011 |
ADAPTER SYSTEMS FOR GLASS CONTAINERS, LIQUID CONTAINMENT SYSTEMS,
AND ASSOCIATED METHODS OF USE
Abstract
Provided herein are adapter systems and liquid containment
systems that fortify, insulate, decorate, and seal glass
containers, as well as methods of using the adapter systems and
liquid containment systems to reduce waste from disposable beverage
containers.
Inventors: |
Diegel; Paul; (Salt Lake
City, UT) ; Wright; Matthew; (Temecula, CA) ;
Jensen; Jonny; (Farmington, UT) |
Family ID: |
44814908 |
Appl. No.: |
13/091051 |
Filed: |
April 20, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61326759 |
Apr 22, 2010 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
215/387 ;
215/396; 220/737; 220/739; 220/740 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 47/046 20130101;
B65D 25/2811 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
215/387 ;
215/396; 220/737; 220/740; 220/739 |
International
Class: |
B65D 25/20 20060101
B65D025/20; B65D 81/38 20060101 B65D081/38; B65D 25/38 20060101
B65D025/38 |
Claims
1. An adapter system for a glass container, the adapter system
comprising: a sleeve for encapsulating at least a portion of an
exterior surface of a glass container, the sleeve having a
thickness of at least two millimeters; and a lid comprising a
substantially planar surface having substantially the same size and
substantially the same shape as an opening of the glass container;
a hole disposed through the substantially planar surface of the
lid; and an internally threaded lip configured to selectively
engage an externally threaded portion of the glass container.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the hole has a proximal edge
disposed within three centimeters of an outer edge of the
substantially planar surface and wherein the hole has longitudinal
and lateral dimensions that are each less than or equal to two
centimeters.
3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a plug for sealing the
hole disposed through the substantially planar surface of the
lid.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the lid is coupled to the
sleeve.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the sleeve is configured as a
pair of curved wings.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the lid further comprises a fluid
cavity.
7. The system of claim 1, further comprising a handle coupled to
the lid or the sleeve.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the lid further includes an
O-ring, a plastic base, and a rubber grip.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the sleeve comprises a
substantially inelastic material.
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the substantially inelastic
material comprises cellulose, straw, hemp, wood, fabric, cord,
plastic, or a combination thereof.
11. The system of claim 10, wherein the wood is selected from the
group consisting of ash, pine, oak, maple, juniper, bamboo, spruce,
mahogany, olive, poplar, willow, elm, locust, and combinations
thereof.
12. The system of claim 10, wherein the fabric is selected from the
group consisting of knitted fabric, woven fabric, crocheted fabric,
corduroy, felt, fleece, leather, and combinations thereof.
13. The system of claim 10, the fabric encapsulating an insulating
material.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the insulating material is
selected from the group consisting of down, thermaloft,
PRIMALOFT.RTM., and combinations thereof.
15. The system of claim 10, wherein the plastic is selected from
the group consisting of polypropylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile
butadiene styrene (ABS), polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate
(EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and combinations thereof.
16. The system of claim 9, wherein the sleeve comprises an exterior
surface and an interior surface, wherein the interior surface
comprises a semi-adhesive material.
17. The system of claim 1, wherein the sleeve comprises a
substantially elastic material.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the substantially elastic
material is selected from the group consisting of rubber, neoprene,
lycra, cork, elastomers, and combinations thereof.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the elastomer is selected from
the group consisting of silicone, polyurethane, synthetic rubber,
ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, and combinations
thereof.
20. The system of claim 17, wherein the substantially elastic
material is selected from the group consisting of repurposed inner
tube material, repurposed tire material, repurposed wetsuit
material, and combinations thereof.
21. A liquid containment system comprising: the adapter system of
claim 1; and a glass container.
22. The liquid containment system of claim 21, wherein the glass
container is an industry standard glass container.
23. The liquid containment system of claim 21, wherein the glass
container is an industry standard canning jar.
24. A method of using an adapter system for a glass container, the
method comprising: receiving the adapter system of claim 1, wherein
the sleeve at least partially encapsulates a first glass container;
and replacing the first glass container with a second glass
container.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/326,759, filed Apr. 22, 2010,
which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This invention is in the field of mechanical devices, and
relates generally to adapter systems for fortifying, insulating,
decorating, and sealing glass containers in order to convert the
glass containers into beverage containers. Liquid containment
systems and methods of using the adapter systems or liquid
containment systems to reduce waste from disposable beverage
containers are also disclosed.
[0003] Various types of beverage containers are known, and users
typically select a particular container based on its intended use
and characteristics, e.g., safety, insulation, fragility,
appearance, texture, handling, closure system, etc. But each
material used to fabricate a beverage container has drawbacks, and
the ability to mix-and-match components of known beverage systems
to suit a user's needs is limited.
[0004] Plastic is one of the most popular materials for beverage
containers because it is economical, robust, and easily
manufactured to meet certain appearance, texture, and handling
requirements. However, plastic containers have recently been
scrutinized as being potentially unsafe because certain chemicals
used in the manufacture of plastic containers can be transferred to
the beverage and ingested. This ingestion of potentially toxic
chemicals over an extended period of time, especially by vulnerable
populations, may lead to disease.
[0005] Only a limited number of materials that do not impart any
known toxicity are available for the manufacture of beverage
containers. One of these materials is glass. Users, however,
typically avoid glass containers for transporting hot or cold
beverages because glass is a poor thermal insulator and can
break.
[0006] Recently, a number of patents and publications have
disclosed sleeves for glass containers. For example, Patent
Application Publication US 2009/0057257 discloses an elastic,
stretchable sleeve or wrap for protecting a container, such as a
baby bottle. Similarly, Design Pat. D620,755 discloses a toddler's
drinking cup with a sleeve and top. International Patent DE20308453
discloses a bottle cover made of elastic or stretchable material
for containing glass fragments in the event of breakage. U.S. Pat.
Nos. 4,549,410 and 5,261,554 describe rigid or semi-rigid insulated
containers for insertion of canned or bottled drinks.
[0007] Other patents and publications have disclosed lids for glass
containers. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,246,127 and 4,055,267
disclose caps devoid of drinking holes for sealing glass
containers. FR2733738 and DE102006013731 disclose resealable lids
having multiple perforations designed for sprinkling solid
contents.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The invention provides adapter systems for converting glass
containers into beverage containers, liquid containment systems,
and methods of using the adapter systems and liquid containment
systems to reduce waste from disposable beverage containers. In
some embodiments, for example, adapter systems of the invention
include sleeves for encapsulating at least a portion of an exterior
surface of a glass container and internally threaded lids
configured to selectively engage an externally threaded portion of
the glass container. Incorporation of sleeves in some embodiments
improves mechanical properties of a glass container, such as
strength, insulation, safety, and handling, relative to a glass
container with no sleeve. Incorporation of a lid in some
embodiments provides a means of sealing a glass container to reduce
or prevent liquid escape.
[0009] The invention enables a versatile system platform supporting
a variety of glass containers and adapter systems. For example, the
sleeves and lids of the present adapter systems are removable, and
can be mixed-and-matched to reflect a user's aesthetic or
functional preferences. This modular system supports a variety of
sleeve and/or lid characteristics, including but not limited to,
color, material, style, brand, functional features, and the like.
In addition, a variety of glass containers may be used with the
present adapter systems. For example, a glass container useful with
the present invention may be any industry standard glass container,
such as a canning jar, a food container, a baby bottle, or a
beverage container. An industry standard canning jar is commonly
referred to as a Mason jar, a Ball jar, or a Kerr jar. Suitable
glass containers may be made of silicon dioxide, sodalime glass,
borosilicate glass, pyrex, lead crystal, and the like.
[0010] Provided herein are adapter systems, liquid containment
systems, and methods of using adapter systems and liquid
containment systems. For example, adapter systems and liquid
containment systems of the invention are useful for improving the
safety, portability, functionality, and appearance of glass
containers. Methods of the present invention are useful for
reducing waste caused, for example, by excessive use of disposable
beverage containers.
[0011] In an aspect, provided is an adapter system for a glass
container, the adapter system comprises a sleeve for encapsulating
at least a portion of an exterior surface of a glass container, the
sleeve having a thickness of at least two millimeters, and a lid
comprising a substantially planar surface having substantially the
same size and substantially the same shape as an opening of the
glass container; a hole disposed through the substantially planar
surface of the lid; and an internally threaded lip configured to
selectively engage an externally threaded portion of the glass
container. In an embodiment, the adapter system further comprises a
plug for sealing the hole disposed through the substantially planar
surface of the lid. In an embodiment, the hole has a proximal edge
disposed within three centimeters of an outer edge of the
substantially planar surface and/or the hole has longitudinal and
lateral dimensions that are each less than or equal to two
centimeters. In some embodiments, the lid is coupled to the sleeve.
In some embodiments, the sleeve is configured as a pair of curved
wings. In some embodiments, a handle is coupled to the lid or the
sleeve. In an embodiment, the lid includes an O-ring, a plastic
base, and a rubber grip. In an embodiment, the lid further
comprises a fluid cavity.
[0012] In some embodiments, the sleeve functions to encapsulate
portions of, or all of, a glass container, thereby thermally
insulating the glass container, improving handling, and protecting
a user from glass shards that may result from cracking or breaking
of the glass container. In an embodiment, the sleeve encapsulates
at least 50% of the glass container, optionally at least 90% of the
glass container, and optionally all of the glass container.
Optionally, the sleeve further comprises a semi-adhesive material
in contact with an interior surface of the sleeve. For example, a
semi-adhesive material comprising rubber or an elastomer may
improve contact between the sleeve and the glass container. In one
embodiment, the semi-adhesive material completely coats an interior
surface of the sleeve. Alternatively, the semi-adhesive material
may partially coat an interior surface of a sleeve. For example,
the semi-adhesive material may be applied as a ring or a series of
dots on the interior surface of the sleeve. In particular, a ring
or series of dots disposed near the proximal end and/or the distal
end of the sleeve may be sufficient to ensure adequate contact
between the sleeve and the glass container.
[0013] A variety of materials are useful for the sleeve of the
present adapter systems and liquid containment systems. In some
embodiments, the sleeve comprises, or consists essentially of, a
substantially elastic material. Suitable substantially elastic
materials include, for example, rubber, neoprene, lycra, cork,
elastomers, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the
elastomer is, for example, silicone, polyurethane, synthetic
rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, and
combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the substantially
elastic material may be a repurposed material, such as repurposed
inner tube material, repurposed tire material, repurposed wetsuit
material, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the sleeve
comprises, or consists essentially of, a substantially inelastic
material. Suitable substantially inelastic materials include, for
example, cellulose, straw, hemp, wood, fabric, cord, plastic, or
combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the wood is selected from
the group consisting of ash, pine, oak, maple, juniper, bamboo,
spruce, mahogany, olive, poplar, willow, elm, locust, and
combinations thereof. In an embodiment, the fabric is selected from
the group consisting of knitted fabric, woven fabric, crocheted
fabric, corduroy, felt, fleece, leather, and combinations thereof.
In some embodiments, the fabric encapsulates an insulating
material, which may, for example, be down, thermaloft,
PRIMALOFT.RTM., or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the
plastic may be selected from the group consisting of polypropylene,
polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyurethane,
ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and
combinations thereof. In some embodiments, decorative beads,
printing, pins, patches, emblems, embroidery, and other ornamental
features may be added to a sleeve.
[0014] Sleeves of the present invention may be made by known
processes. For example, plastic and elastomeric sleeves may be made
by injection molding, compression molding, blow molding, and the
like; wooden sleeves may be made, for example, by carving, weaving,
binding, and the like; and fabric sleeves may be made, for example,
by sewing, seam sealing, knitting, crocheting, and the like.
[0015] The physical dimensions and physical properties of the
sleeve are important parameters for supporting a range of adapter
system and liquid containment system functionalities. In some
embodiments, the sleeve has a thickness of at least two
millimeters, and optionally in some embodiments of at least three
millimeters, and optionally in some embodiments of at least five
millimeters, and optionally in some embodiments of at least ten
millimeters. In some embodiments, the sleeve has a thickness
selected over the range of one millimeter to ten millimeters,
optionally for some applications selected over the range of two
millimeters to eight millimeters, and optionally for some
embodiments selected over the range of two millimeters to five
millimeters. Use of a sleeve having a thickness of at least two
millimeters is useful for providing thermal insulation and/or
texture that improves grip.
[0016] The geometry and/or morphology of the sleeve are other
characteristics important to establishing the functional
capabilities of the present adapter systems. In an embodiment, the
sleeve is a continuous layer having approximately uniform thickness
(e.g., thicknesses within 10% of average thickness). Alternatively,
the invention includes systems having a sleeve comprising a
discontinuous layer and/or a layer having a nonuniform thickness
profile. In some embodiments, a sleeve comprises a base that at
least partially supports a bottom of a glass container. In some
embodiments, a sleeve comprises a base that completely supports a
bottom of a glass container and, in the event of breakage, contains
all glass shards within the sleeve. The base of the sleeve may be
made of the same material as the wall(s) of the sleeve, or it may
be made of a different material. In an embodiment, the base of the
sleeve forms a coaster that reduces thermal transfer from the glass
container to a surface supporting the glass container. The base
may, for example, be made from cork, plastic, wood, foam, fabric,
or combinations thereof.
[0017] Useful lid designs include, but are not limited to, lids
having substantially planar surfaces that have substantially the
same size and substantially the same shape as an opening of a glass
container, a hole disposed through the substantially planar surface
of the lid, and an internally threaded lip configured to
selectively engage an externally threaded portion of the glass
container. Various opening mechanisms for the hole may be utilized,
including but not limited to, selectively openable openings,
one-way valves, pressure openings, etc. In some embodiments, an
adapter system or liquid containment system further comprises a
plug configured to seal the hole. Sealing of the glass container
may be partial, e.g., where the lid has an open hole therein, or
complete, e.g., where the lid includes a plug, or other mechanism,
to stopper a hole therein. In an aspect, the plug forms part of a
tongue that couples to the lid. In some embodiments, the lid is
coupled to a handle or a sleeve.
[0018] The physical dimensions and shape of the lid, and components
thereof, are important parameters for establishing adequate contact
between the lid and the glass container. In some embodiments, the
lid is configured with an internally threaded lip having a size,
shape, thread count, thread pitch, and thread thickness suitable
for selectively engaging an externally threaded portion of a glass
container. In some embodiments, a gasket or O-ring forms part of
the lid and is positioned to abut a flat sealing surface of the
glass container. In some embodiments, a rubber grip may encapsulate
a plastic base of a lid.
[0019] In some embodiments, adapter systems comprise one or more
handles, which may be integrally formed with a lid or with a
sleeve. Handles may form holes or substantially linear components
devoid of any holes.
[0020] A variety of materials are useful for the lids, tongues, and
handles of the present adapter systems. Suitable materials include,
for example, rubber, plastic, or combinations thereof. In an
embodiment, the plastic may be selected from the group consisting
of polypropylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
(ABS), polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl
chloride (PVC), and combinations thereof. A plastic lid may, for
example, improve the mechanical properties of a glass container by
reducing the impact loading to which the glass container is
subjected.
[0021] Lids, tongues, and handles may be made according to known
processes, such as injection molding, compression molding, blow
molding, and the like.
[0022] In another aspect, a liquid containment system comprises an
adapter system comprising a sleeve for encapsulating at least a
portion of an exterior surface of a glass container, the sleeve
having a thickness of at least two millimeters, and a lid
comprising a substantially planar surface having substantially the
same size and substantially the same shape as an opening of the
glass container; a hole disposed through the substantially planar
surface of the lid; and an internally threaded lip configured to
selectively engage an externally threaded portion of the glass
container; and a glass container. In one embodiment, the glass
container is an industry standard glass container. In another
embodiment, the glass container is an industry standard canning
jar, such as a Mason jar, a Ball jar, or a Kerr jar.
[0023] In another aspect, provided are methods for using an adapter
system or liquid containment system. A method of this aspect
comprises the steps of receiving an adapter system comprising a
sleeve for encapsulating at least a portion of an exterior surface
of a glass container, the sleeve having a thickness of at least two
millimeters, and a lid comprising a substantially planar surface
having substantially the same size and substantially the same shape
as an opening of the glass container; a hole disposed through the
substantially planar surface of the lid; and an internally threaded
lip configured to selectively engage an externally threaded portion
of the glass container, where the adapter system at least partially
encapsulates a first glass container; and replacing the first glass
container with a second glass container. Methods of this aspect are
useful for reducing waste caused by disposable beverage
containers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] FIG. 1 provides a top perspective view of an adapter system,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 2 provides a top perspective view of an exemplary glass
container.
[0026] FIG. 3 provides a top perspective view of a sleeve including
a semi-adhesive material, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0027] FIGS. 4A and 4B provide top views of a lid having a tongue
containing a plug, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 5 provides an exploded view of the lid of FIGS. 4A and
4B.
[0029] FIG. 6 provides a cross-sectional side view of a lid having
a fluid cavity, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 7A provides a side plan view of a lid having an
integral handle, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0031] FIG. 7B provides a top perspective view of a lid having both
a grooved handle and a grooved tongue, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0032] FIG. 8 provides a side plan view of a lid having an integral
handle, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0033] FIG. 9 provides a side plan view of a lid coupled to a
sleeve, where the sleeve is configured as a pair of curved wings,
according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0034] FIGS. 10A and 10B provide side plan views of a lid coupled
to a sleeve by a hinge, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0035] FIG. 11 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system having a contiguous sleeve, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0036] FIG. 12 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system having a sleeve made of fabric, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 13 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system having a wooden sleeve, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0038] FIG. 14 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system having a non-contiguous sleeve, according to an exemplary
embodiment.
[0039] FIG. 15 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system where the sleeve and the lid comprise compression fittings
for receiving a tether, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0040] FIG. 16 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system where the sleeve and the lid contain eyelets for receiving a
tether, according to an exemplary embodiment.
[0041] FIG. 17 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system having a sleeve with an integrally formed handle, according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0042] FIG. 18 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system having a sleeve with an integrally formed handle, according
to an exemplary embodiment.
[0043] FIG. 19 provides a flowchart showing steps for using an
adapter system, according to an exemplary embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0044] In general, the terms and phrases used herein have their
art-recognized meaning, which can be found by reference to standard
texts, journal references and contexts known to those skilled in
the art. The following definitions are provided to clarify their
specific use in the context of the invention.
[0045] "Encapsulate" refers to the orientation of one structure
such that it is at least partially, and in some cases completely,
surrounded by one or more other structures. "Partially
encapsulated" refers to the orientation of one structure such that
it is partially surrounded by one or more other structures.
"Completely encapsulated" refers to the orientation of one
structure such that it is completely surrounded by one or more
other structures. Sleeves of the present invention partially or
completely encapsulate a glass container.
[0046] "Contiguous" refers to materials that are touching or
connected throughout in an unbroken sequence, without forming holes
or void spaces. Some sleeves of the present invention are
contiguous.
[0047] "Seal" refers to the orientation of one structure such that
it at least partially, and in some cases completely, limits an open
area of another structure. "Partially sealed" refers to the
orientation of one structure such that it partially limits the open
area of another structure, i.e., some open area remains.
"Completely sealed" refers to the orientation of one structure such
that it completely limits the open area of another structure, i.e.,
no open area remains. Lids of the present invention partially or
completely seal a glass container.
[0048] "Industry standard glass container" refers to any glass
container manufactured according to technical specifications shown
or described in Finish Drawings and/or Specification Drawings
provided by the Glass Packaging Institute, which are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entireties (available at
http://www.gpi.org/glassresources/drawings/index.html, accessed
Apr. 13, 2010.)
[0049] "Polymer" refers to a macromolecule composed of repeating
structural units connected by covalent chemical bonds or the
polymerization product of one or more monomers, often characterized
by a high molecular weight. The term polymer includes homopolymers,
or polymers consisting essentially of a single repeating monomer
subunit. The term polymer also includes copolymers, or polymers
consisting essentially of two or more monomer subunits, such as
random, block, alternating, segmented, grafted, tapered, and other
copolymers. Crosslinked polymers having linked monomer chains are
particularly useful for some applications. Polymers useable in the
present systems and methods include, but are not limited to,
plastics, elastomers, thermoplastic elastomers, elastoplastics,
thermoplastics, and acrylates. Exemplary polymers include, but are
not limited to, acetal polymers, biodegradable polymers, cellulosic
polymers, fluoropolymers, nylons, polyacrylonitrile polymers,
polyamide-imide polymers, polyimides, polyarylates,
polybenzimidazole, polybutylene, polycarbonate, polyesters,
polyetherimide, polyethylene, polyethylene copolymers and modified
polyethylenes, polyketones, poly(methyl methacrylate),
polymethylpentene, polyphenylene oxides and polyphenylene sulfides,
polyphthalamide, polypropylene, polyurethanes, styrenic resins,
sulfone-based resins, vinyl-based resins, rubber (including natural
rubber, styrene-butadiene, polybutadiene, neoprene,
ethylene-propylene, butyl, nitrile, silicones), acrylic, nylon,
polycarbonate, polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene,
polyvinyl chloride, polyolefin, or any combinations thereof.
[0050] "Elastomer" refers to a polymeric material which can be
stretched or deformed and returned to its original shape without
substantial permanent deformation. Elastomers commonly undergo
substantially elastic deformations. Useful elastomers include those
comprising polymers, copolymers, composite materials, or mixtures
of polymers and copolymers. Useful elastomers include, but are not
limited to, silicon containing polymers such as polysiloxanes
including poly(dimethyl siloxane) (i.e. PDMS and h-PDMS),
poly(methyl siloxane), partially alkylated poly(methyl siloxane),
poly(alkyl methyl siloxane) and poly(phenyl methyl siloxane),
silicon modified elastomers, thermoplastic elastomers, styrenic
materials, olefinic materials, polyolefin, thermoplastic
polyurethane (TPU) elastomers, polyamides, synthetic rubbers,
polyisobutylene, poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene), polyurethanes,
polychloroprene, and silicones. In an embodiment, a polymer is an
elastomer.
[0051] Adapter systems, liquid containments systems, and methods of
using the systems will now be described with reference to the
figures. For clarity, multiple items within a figure may not be
labeled and the figures may not be drawn to scale. Like numerals in
multiple figures represent like items, and items numbered with
parentheses, e.g., sleeve 102(1)-102(12), represent species within
a genus, which may be broadly referred to without parentheses,
e.g., sleeve 102.
[0052] FIG. 1 shows a top perspective view of an adapter system
100(1) including a sleeve 102(1) and a lid 104(1). Sleeve 102(1)
has a wall 106 having an exterior surface 108, an interior surface
110, a thickness 112, and an optional base 114(1). Lid 104(1)
includes a substantially planar surface 116(1) having an outer edge
118 and a drinking hole 120(1). Drinking hole 120(1) has a proximal
edge 122, disposed near outer edge 118, a lateral dimension 124,
and a longitudinal dimension 126. Additional holes (not shown),
such as vent holes, may be present in some embodiments. An
internally threaded lip 128 having threads 130(1) is disposed
perpendicular to and joined with substantially planar surface
116(1). Internally threaded lip 128 is configured to mate with and
substantially cover an externally threaded portion (e.g., FIG. 2,
204) of a glass container (e.g., FIG. 2, 200). Coverage of the
glass by lid 104(1) allows a user's mouth to contact lid 104(1)
while drinking from the glass container. Thus, a user's mouth does
not directly contact the glass container, which may be hot due to
conductive heating from liquid contents within the container.
[0053] FIG. 2 provides a top perspective view of an exemplary glass
container 200 having an outer surface 202, an externally threaded
portion 204, an opening 206, a bottom 208, and a sealing surface
210. Glass container 200 may have any regular or irregular shape,
but will often be in the form of a cylinder. Preferred glass
containers include industry standard glass containers, especially
industry standard canning jars. Such canning jars are commonly
referred to as Mason jars, Ball jars, or Kerr jars, and are
manufactured in two standard sizes according to Glass Packaging
Institute DWG. NO. 4614, which is hereby incorporated by reference
in its entirety (available at
http://www.gpi.org/pdf/drawings/4614.pdf, accessed Apr. 8, 2011).
Canning jars are particularly well suited to the present invention
because they are manufactured under strict tolerances to have flat
sealing surfaces 210. In the context of the present invention, flat
sealing surfaces produce a water-tight seal when a gasket or O-ring
(e.g., FIG. 5, 500) is compressed between flat sealing surface 210
of glass container 200 and the underside of a substantially planar
surface of a lid (e.g., FIG. 1, 116(1)).
[0054] FIG. 3 shows a top perspective view of a sleeve 102(2)
having a semi-adhesive material 300 on an interior surface (such as
FIG. 1, 110) of the sleeve. As shown, semi-adhesive material 300 is
contiguous and completely covers the interior surface. In alternate
embodiments (not shown), a semi-adhesive material may be a ring or
series of dots that partially cover(s) an interior surface of a
sleeve.
[0055] FIGS. 4A and 4B provide top views of a lid 104(2) having a
tongue 400(1) containing a body 402, a plug 404, and a pin 406.
FIG. 4A shows how tongue 400(1) is coupled to lid 104(2) via
insertion of pin 406 into orifice 408. Once tongue 400(1) is
coupled to lid 104(2), tongue 400(1) may pivot to allow plug 404 to
removeably seal hole 120(2). FIG. 4B shows lid 104(2) as completely
sealed by tongue 400(1).
[0056] FIG. 5 provides an exploded view of lid 104(2), FIG. 4,
having an O-ring 500, a plastic base 502, and a rubber grip 504.
When O-ring 500 abuts a flat sealing surface (e.g., FIG. 2, 210) of
a glass container a water-tight seal is created. Rubber grip 504
allows a user to maintain hand-to-lid contact while applying
adequate torque on lid 104(2) to easily engage or disengage lid
104(2) with glass container 200.
[0057] FIG. 6 provides a cross-sectional side view of a lid 104(3)
having a fluid cavity 600 configured to hold a solid or
liquid--such as ice, 602--that may be used to heat or cool a
beverage as it passes through a serpentine channel 604 having an
inlet 606 for receiving the beverage and an outlet 608 for
delivering the beverage to a user. Threads 130(2) are also visible
in the cross-sectional view.
[0058] FIGS. 7A, 7B, and 8 provide lids 104(4) and 104(5), which
have integral handles 700(1), 700(2), and 800. Handles 700(1),
700(2), and 800 extend from lid 104(4) or 104(5) toward a bottom
(e.g., FIG. 2, 208) of a glass container 200 and substantially
parallel to an exterior surface (e.g., FIG. 2, 202) of the glass
container 200. Handle 800 forms a hole 802 to better protect the
hand of a user from contact with glass container 200, whereas
handles 700(1) and 700(2) form substantially linear components.
Handle 700(1) has a constant cross-sectional thickness along planes
parallel with the plane of the paper, whereas handle 700(2)
contains a groove 702. Groove 702 reduces an amount of material
necessary to form handle 700(2) relative to handle 700(1) and
improves molding quality due to thermal mass balance. FIG. 7B also
shows lid 104(4) as containing an optional tongue 400(2) having a
groove 704, which improves grip and allows a user to easily flip
tongue 400(2) into an open position. In an embodiment (not shown),
handle 800 may contain a groove (such as groove 702, FIG. 7B)
and/or lid 104(5) may contain a grooved tongue (such as tongue
400(2), FIG. 7B).
[0059] FIG. 9 provides a side plan view of liquid containment
system 900(1) comprising a glass container 200 sealed by a lid
104(6) that is coupled to a sleeve 102(3). Sleeve 102(3) is
configured as a pair of curved wings 902. Only one wing is visible
in FIG. 9. As shown, wings 902 have an irregular shape that
approximates that of a human hand 904. In alternate embodiments,
sleeve 102(3) may be rectangular or triangular with squared or
pointed edges, respectively. Lid 104(6) and sleeve 102(3) are
fixedly positioned relative to one another.
[0060] FIGS. 10A and 10B provide side plan views of a liquid
containment system 900(2) comprising a glass container 200 sealed
by a lid 104(7) that is coupled to a sleeve 102(4) via a hinge
1002. In the embodiment shown, lid 104(7) and sleeve 102(4) are
movable relative to one another around an axis defined by the pivot
point of hinge 1002. The presence of hinge 1002 allows lid 104(7)
to be screwed onto glass container 200 while sleeve 102(4) is in an
open position, as shown in FIG. 10A, thereby avoiding possible
friction due to contact between sleeve 102(4) and glass container
200. Once lid 104(7) is secured, sleeve 102(4) may be lowered into
a closed position, as shown in FIG. 10B. Lid 104(7) may contain a
drinking hole 120 and, optionally, a tongue 400 having a plug 404
and/or a fluid cavity 600.
[0061] FIG. 11 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system 900(3) including a glass container 200, a lid 104(8), and a
contiguous sleeve 102(5). For example, contiguous sleeve 102(5) may
be made of plastic. Suitable plastics include, but are not limited
to, polypropylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
(ABS), polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl
chloride (PVC), and combinations thereof. In another embodiment,
contiguous sleeve 102(5) may be a substantially elastic material,
such as rubber, neoprene, lycra, cork, elastomers, and combinations
thereof. Suitable elastomers include, but are not limited to,
silicone, polyurethane, synthetic rubber, ethylene propylene diene
monomer (EPDM) rubber, and combinations thereof. Additionally, many
of these materials may be repurposed, such as repurposed inner tube
material, repurposed tire material, repurposed wetsuit material,
and combinations thereof.
[0062] FIGS. 12 and 13 show additional specific examples of
systems, such as system 900(3), FIG. 11, containing contiguous
sleeves 102.
[0063] FIG. 12 shows a side plan view of a liquid containment
system 900(4) comprising a glass container 200, a lid 104(9), and a
sleeve 102(6) made of fabric. As depicted, sleeve 102(6) is
contiguous. Those skilled in the art will, however, appreciate that
a non-contiguous sleeve may be made from fabric. Contiguous and
non-contiguous fabric sleeves may be made from knitted fabric,
woven fabric, crocheted fabric, corduroy, felt, fleece, leather,
and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the fabric
encapsulates an insulating material, such as down, thermaloft,
PRIMALOFT.RTM., and combinations thereof.
[0064] FIG. 13 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system 900(5) including a glass container 200, a lid 104(10), and a
wooden sleeve 102(7). Sleeve 102(7) may, for example, comprise a
series of wooden rods fastened together. In the embodiment shown,
rods are fastened together with string or twine 1300, although
other fastening mechanisms, such as adhesive, are possible. In an
alternate embodiment (not shown), a wood sleeve may be a solid
piece of wood carved to receive glass container 200. Suitable woods
for sleeve 102(7) include, but are not limited to, ash, pine, oak,
maple, juniper, bamboo, spruce, mahogany, olive, poplar, willow,
elm, locust, and combinations thereof.
[0065] FIG. 14 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system 900(6) including a glass container 200, a lid 104(11), and a
non-contiguous sleeve 102(8). Non-contiguous sleeve 102(8) reduces
manufacturing costs, such as material costs, and allows a user to
view a liquid level when glass container 200 is transparent.
Non-contiguous sleeve 102(8) may, for example, be made of plastic.
Suitable plastics include, but are not limited to, polypropylene,
polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyurethane,
ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and
combinations thereof. In another embodiment, non-contiguous sleeve
102(8) may be a substantially elastic material, such as an
elastomer, rubber, neoprene, lycra, cork, elastomers, and
combinations thereof. Suitable elastomers include, but are not
limited to, silicone, polyurethane, synthetic rubber, ethylene
propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane
(TPU), and combinations thereof. Additionally, many of these
materials may be repurposed, such as repurposed inner tube
material, repurposed tire material, repurposed wetsuit material,
and combinations thereof.
[0066] FIG. 15 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system 900(7) where a sleeve 102(9) and a lid 104(12) comprise
compression fittings 1500 having eyelets 1502(1) for receiving a
tether 1504(1) that joins sleeve 102(9) and lid 104(12).
[0067] FIG. 16 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system 900(8) where eyelets 1502(2) form part of a sleeve 102(10)
and a lid 104(13) for receiving a tether 1504(2).
[0068] FIG. 17 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system 900(9) including a glass container 200, a lid 104(14), and a
sleeve 102(11) having an integrally formed handle 1700 and a
substantially flat base 114(2). Base 114(2) terminates
approximately along a shape boundary defined by the outer surface
of sleeve 102(11), for example, along dashed line A.
[0069] FIG. 18 provides a side plan view of a liquid containment
system 900(10) including a glass container 200, a lid 104(15), and
a sleeve 102(12) having an integrally formed handle 1800 and a flat
base 114(3). Base 114(3) terminates approximately along an outer
edge of handle 1800, for example, along dashed line B.
[0070] It should be appreciated that all liquid containment systems
900 described herein may be converted into adapter systems 100 upon
removal of glass container 200, and vice versa. Further, each of
sleeves 102 optionally includes a base (e.g., base 114(1), FIG. 1),
each lid 104 optionally includes a tongue 400 having a plug 404
and/or a fluid cavity 600, and each handle and/or tongue may be
grooved.
[0071] The invention may be further understood by the following
non-limiting example.
Example 1
Method of Using an Adapter System or Liquid Containment System
[0072] FIG. 19 provides a flowchart 1900 showing steps for using an
adapter system 100. In step 1902, a user receives an adapter system
100 comprising a sleeve 102 and a lid 104, where the sleeve 102 at
least partially encapsulates a first glass container 200. In step
1904, the user replaces the first glass container with a second
glass container.
[0073] An adapter system 100 comprising a glass container 200 is
referred to herein as a liquid containment system 900. Thus, the
method of FIG. 19 may be used to convert a first liquid containment
system into a second liquid containment system.
[0074] As an example of the method described in FIG. 19, a person
brings his or her adapter system and a used glass container to a
coffee shop. At the coffee shop, a barista removes the used glass
container and replaces it with a new, clean glass container.
Because the glass container is preferably an industry standard
glass container, coffee shops can easily stock glass containers
that are compatible with the present adapter systems, and customers
may take the new glass containers "to go". Therefore, use of the
present adapter systems and/or liquid containment systems according
to the present method reduces waste from disposable beverage
containers, while protecting users from potential toxins found in
some plastic beverage containers. Used glass containers, which are
retrieved from customers upon arrival, may be washed and
redistributed, for example, when steps 1902 and 1904 are repeated
in a subsequent method.
[0075] Presently, when a customer brings his or her personal,
reusable mug to a coffee shop, the barista must often rinse or
clean the mug before preparing the beverage. Simply replacing one
glass container with a new glass container may expedite the
beverage preparation process.
[0076] It will be appreciated that the present method may be
employed in various locations, for example, in a home, an office,
or a restaurant.
STATEMENTS REGARDING INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE AND VARIATIONS
[0077] All references throughout this application, for example
patent documents including issued or granted patents or
equivalents; patent application publications; and non-patent
literature documents or other source material; are hereby
incorporated by reference herein in their entireties, as though
individually incorporated by reference, to the extent each
reference is at least partially not inconsistent with the
disclosure in this application (for example, a reference that is
partially inconsistent is incorporated by reference except for the
partially inconsistent portion of the reference).
[0078] The terms and expressions which have been employed herein
are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there
is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of
excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or
portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications
are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. Thus, it
should be understood that although the invention has been
specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments, exemplary
embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of
the concepts herein disclosed can be resorted to by those skilled
in the art, and that such modifications and variations are
considered to be within the scope of this invention as defined by
the appended claims. The specific embodiments provided herein are
examples of useful embodiments of the invention and it will be
apparent to one skilled in the art that the invention can be
carried out using a large number of variations of the systems and
method steps set forth in the present description. As will be
apparent to one of skill in the art, systems and methods can
include a large number of optional components and steps.
[0079] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended
claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural
reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for
example, reference to "a sleeve" includes a plurality of such
sleeves and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art,
and so forth. As well, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more" and
"at least one" can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be
noted that the terms "comprising", "including", and "having" can be
used interchangeably. The expression "of any of claims XX-YY"
(wherein XX and YY refer to claim numbers) is intended to provide a
multiple dependent claim in the alternative form, and in some
embodiments is interchangeable with the expression "as in any one
of claims XX-YY."
[0080] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although
any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described
herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present
invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described.
Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the
invention is not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of
prior invention.
[0081] Whenever a range is given in the specification, for example,
a range of integers, a temperature range, a time range, a
composition range, or concentration range, all intermediate ranges
and subranges, as well as all individual values included in the
ranges given are intended to be included in the disclosure. As used
herein, ranges specifically include the values provided as endpoint
values of the range. As used herein, ranges specifically include
all the integer values of the range. For example, a range of 1 to
100 specifically includes the end point values of 1 and 100. It
will be understood that any subranges or individual values in a
range or subrange that are included in the description herein can
be excluded from the claims herein.
[0082] As used herein, "comprising" is synonymous and can be used
interchangeably with "including," "containing," or "characterized
by," and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude
additional, unrecited elements or method steps. As used herein,
"consisting of" excludes any element, step, or ingredient not
specified in the claim element. As used herein, "consisting
essentially of" does not exclude materials or steps that do not
materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claim.
In each instance herein any of the terms "comprising", "consisting
essentially of" and "consisting of" can be replaced with either of
the other two terms. The invention illustratively described herein
suitably can be practiced in the absence of any element or
elements, limitation or limitations which is not specifically
disclosed herein.
[0083] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that
production materials and methods other than those specifically
exemplified can be employed in the practice of the invention
without resort to undue experimentation. All art-known functional
equivalents, of any such materials and methods are intended to be
included in this invention. The terms and expressions which have
been employed are used as terms of description and not of
limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and
expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and
described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various
modifications are possible within the scope of the invention
claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although the invention
has been specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments and
optional features, modification and variation of the concepts
herein disclosed can be resorted to by those skilled in the art,
and that such modifications and variations are considered to be
within the scope of this invention as defined by the appended
claims.
* * * * *
References