U.S. patent application number 13/040212 was filed with the patent office on 2012-09-06 for drinking vessel with dry ice filter.
Invention is credited to Leejon Moore.
Application Number | 20120223089 13/040212 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46752676 |
Filed Date | 2012-09-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120223089 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Moore; Leejon |
September 6, 2012 |
DRINKING VESSEL WITH DRY ICE FILTER
Abstract
A drinking vessel configured to enclose an amount of dry ice
produces smoke while chilling a beverage. The drinking vessel may
comprise a watertight container for holding the beverage and a
filter to enclose the dry ice within a section of the watertight
container. The filter will typically be permeable such that the
beverage may contact the dry ice within the section of the
watertight container but also flow out of the section so that the
beverage may be consumed. The filter may be attached to an interior
of the watertight container to enclose the dry ice. The interior
wall(s) of the watertight container may have one or more mounts to
engage and secure the filter to to the watertight container. The
filter prevents dry ice particles from escaping thus allowing a
user to drink directly from the drinking vessel even as smoke is
generated by the dry ice.
Inventors: |
Moore; Leejon; (Las Vegas,
NV) |
Family ID: |
46752676 |
Appl. No.: |
13/040212 |
Filed: |
March 3, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
220/703 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 19/2288
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/703 |
International
Class: |
A47G 19/22 20060101
A47G019/22 |
Claims
1. A drinking vessel from which one or more liquids may be directly
consumed comprising: a vessel configured to hold the one or more
liquids therein, the vessel comprising an upper section and a lower
section; an opening in the vessel through which the one or more
liquids may enter and exit the vessel; a rim surrounding the
opening, the rim configured to engage a user's lips to allow the
user to consume the one or more liquids; one or more mounts at an
interior wall of the vessel, the one or more mounts located between
the upper section and the lower section of the vessel and remote
from the opening in the vessel; and a filter configured to enclose
the lower section of the vessel by engaging the one or more mounts,
the filter comprising one or more permeable areas configured to:
facilitate a flow of the one or more liquids and one or more gasses
from the lower section to at least the upper section; and prevent
one or more non-liquid particles from escaping the lower
section.
2. The drinking vessel of claim 1, wherein the one or more mounts
protrude outward from the interior wall of the vessel.
3. The drinking vessel of claim 1, wherein the one or more mounts
are recesses in the interior wall of the vessel.
4. The drinking vessel of claim 1, wherein the filter comprises one
or more threads configured to secure the filter to the vessel when
the one or more threads are rotated onto the one or more
mounts.
5. The drinking vessel of claim 1, wherein the filter comprises one
or more outwardly extending tabs at a top surface of the
filter.
6. The drinking vessel of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one
or more permeable areas comprise a permeable material selected from
the group consisting of paper, textile, sponge, and perforated
materials.
7. The drinking vessel of claim 1 further comprising a base and a
stem, wherein the stem extends upward from the base and the stem
supports the vessel at an elevated position above the base.
8. A smoke generating drinking vessel configured to chill a
beverage with dry ice comprising: a watertight compartment
configured to hold the beverage therein, the watertight compartment
having an upper section and a lower section; an opening in the
watertight compartment through which the beverage may enter and
exit the watertight compartment; a filter configured to enclose the
lower section of the watertight compartment to prevent one or more
dry ice particles from escaping the lower section, wherein the
filter comprises one or more permeable areas to facilitate a flow
of the beverage from the lower section to at least the upper
section while preventing the one or more dry ice particles from
escaping the lower section.
9. The drinking vessel of claim 8 further comprising a rim around
the opening of the watertight compartment, the rim configured to
engage a user's lips to allow the user to consume the beverage.
10. The drinking vessel of claim 8 further comprising one or more
mounts at an interior surface of the watertight compartment, the
one or more mounts located between the lower section and upper
section of the watertight compartment, wherein the filter is
configured to engage the one or more mounts to enclose the lower
section.
11. The drinking vessel of claim 8, wherein the filter has a
exterior peripheral shape and size corresponding to that of the
interior peripheral shape and size of the watertight
compartment.
12. The drinking vessel of claim 8, wherein the filter is formed
from a flexible material.
13. The drinking vessel of claim 8, wherein the one or more
permeable areas comprise one or more permeable structures and the
filter comprises one or more support members configured to secure
the one or more permeable structures to the filter.
14. The drinking vessel of claim 8, wherein the fluid capacity of
the watertight vessel is less than or equal to 16 ounces to allow a
user to manipulate, hold, and drink directly from the watertight
drinking vessel.
15. A method of chilling a beverage and generating smoke from the
beverage with a drinking vessel comprising: placing an amount of
dry ice into a waterproof compartment of the drinking vessel;
enclosing the amount of dry ice within a section of the waterproof
container by attaching a permeable filter to one or more interior
walls of the waterproof compartment; generating smoke from the dry
ice by moving a beverage into the waterproof compartment of the
drinking vessel, wherein the smoke is generated and the beverage is
chilled as the beverage comes into contact with the dry ice via the
permeable filter; and preventing one or more particles of dry ice
from escaping the section of the waterproof container with the
permeable filter to prevent the one or more dry ice particles from
coming into contact with a user.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein attaching the permeable filter
to the one or more interior walls of the waterproof compartment
comprises twisting the filter to engage one or more threads of the
filter onto one or more mounts at the one or more interior walls of
the waterproof container.
17. he method of claim 16 further comprising engaging one or more
tabs of the permeable filter to twist the filter.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein attaching the permeable filter
to the one or more interior walls of the waterproof compartment
comprises bending the filter to engage one or more mounts at the
one or more interior walls of the waterproof container.
19. The method of claim 15 further comprising installing a
permeable structure into a body of the filter.
20. The method of claim 15 further comprising consuming at least a
portion of the beverage as the smoke is generated by drinking from
the waterproof container.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The invention relates drinking vessels, and particularly a
drinking vessel with a dry ice filter.
[0003] 2. Related Art
[0004] Many drinks are best enjoyed cold. These cold drinks are
typically consumed from a glass, cup, or the like. The liquid
forming a cold drink may itself be chilled, but oftentimes ice made
from frozen water is used chill the liquid produce a cold drink. A
user may then consume the cold drink from the glass or cup. Ice
from water effectively chills a drink, however, there are
undesirable qualities using ice chill drinks. For instance, as ice
melts it adds water the drink which dilutes the drink and
changes/reduces its flavor. In addition, ice is not very exciting,
entertaining, or enticing by itself and thus adds only cooling a
drink. Attempts have been made to liven up ice, such as by forming
ice with molds invarious shapes other than the standard icemaker
"cube" shapes. However, these shapes are difficult see when in a
glass or cup, and rapidly lose their shape and novelty as the ice
melts.
[0005] From the discussion that follows, it will become apparent
that the present invention addresses the deficiencies associated
with the prior art while providing numerous additional advantages
and benefits not contemplated or possible with prior art
constructions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A drinking vessel capable of enclosing an amount of dry ice
is disclosed herein. The drinking vessel provides the benefit of
allowing use of dry ice chill a drink or beverage while allowing a
user drink directly from the drinking vessel. This is advantageous
in that dry ice chills the beverage without adding water which
would dilute the taste of the beverage. In addition, use of dry ice
generates smoke which is highly entertaining and enticing,
especially at social events. The drinking vessel includes a filter
which safely encloses dry ice particles prevent them from coming
incontact with a user. This prevents injury that could occur due
the very low temperature of dry ice.
[0007] As disclosed herein, the drinking vessel may have a variety
of configurations. For example in one embodiment, the drinking
vessel (from which one or more liquids may be directly consumed)
may comprise a vessel configured hold the liquids therein, the
vessel comprising an upper section and a lower section, an opening
in the vessel through which the liquids may enter and exit the
vessel, and a rim surrounding the opening. The rim may be
configured engage a user's lips allow the user to consume the
liquids.
[0008] One or more mounts may be at an interior wall of the vessel.
The mounts may be located between the upper section and the lower
section of the vessel and remote from the opening in the vessel.
The mounts may protrude outward from the interior wall of the
vessel. Alternatively, the mounts may be recesses in the interior
wall of the vessel.
[0009] A filter may be configured enclose the lower section of the
vessel by engaging the mounts. The filter may comprise one or more
permeable areas configured facilitate a flow of the liquids and one
or more gasses from the lower section at least the upper section,
and prevent one or more non-liquid particles from escaping the
lower section.
[0010] The filter may comprise one or more threads configured
secure the filter to the vessel when the threads are rotated onthe
mounts. In addition, the filter may have one or more outwardly
extending tabs at a top surface of the filter. It is noted the
permeable areas of the filter may comprise a permeable material
such as a paper, textile, sponge, or a perforated material.
[0011] The drinking vessel may also comprise a base and a stem. The
stem may extend upward from the base and support the vessel at an
elevated position above the base.
[0012] In another embodiment, the drinking vessel may be configured
as a smoke generating drinking vessel configured chill a beverage
with dry ice. In such an embodiment, the drinking vessel may
comprise a watertight compartment having an upper section and a
lower section and configured hold the beverage therein, an opening
in the watertight compartment through which the beverage may enter
and exit the watertight compartment, and a filter configured
enclose the lower section of the watertight compartment prevent one
or more dry ice particles from escaping the lower section. The
filter may comprise one or more permeable areas to facilitate a
flow of the beverage from the lower section to at least the upper
section while preventing the dry ice particles from escaping the
lower section. It is noted that a rim configured to engage a user's
lips to allow the user to consume the beverage may be around the
opening of the watertight compartment.
[0013] One or more mounts may be at an interior surface of the
watertight compartment. The mounts may be located between the lower
section and upper section of the watertight compartment, and the
filter may be configured to engage the mounts to enclose the lower
section.
[0014] The filter may have an exterior peripheral shape and size
corresponding to that of the interior peripheral shape and size of
the watertight compartment. Alternatively or in addition, the
filter may be formed from a flexible material. It is noted that the
permeable areas may comprise one or more permeable structures and
that the filter may have one or more support members configured to
secure the permeable structures to the filter.
[0015] It is contemplated that the fluid capacity of the watertight
vessel may be less than or equal to 16 ounces to allow a user to
manipulate, hold, and drink directly from the watertight drinking
vessel.
[0016] Various methods of chilling a beverage and generating smoke
from the beverage with the drinking vessel are also disclosed
herein. For instance, in one embodiment a method for chilling a
beverage and generating smoke therefrom with a drinking vessel may
comprise placing an amount of dry ice into a waterproof compartment
of the drinking vessel, enclosing the amount of dry ice within a
section of the waterproof container by attaching a permeable filter
to one or more interior walls of the waterproof compartment, and
generating smoke from the dry ice by moving a beverage into the
waterproof compartment of the drinking vessel. The smoke may be
generated and the beverage may be chilled as the beverage comes
into contact with the dry ice via the permeable filter. One or more
particles of dry ice may be prevented from escaping the section of
the waterproof container with the permeable filter. This prevents
the dry ice particles from coming into contact with a user. A
permeable structure may be installed into a body of the filter to
accomplish this.
[0017] It is noted that attaching the permeable filter to the
interior walls of the waterproof compartment may include twisting
the filter to engage one or more threads of the filter onto one or
more mounts at the interior walls of the waterproof container. One
or more tabs of the permeable filter may be engaged to twist the
filter. Alternatively or in addition, attaching the permeable
filter to the interior walls of the waterproof compartment may
comprise bending the filter to engage one or more mounts at the
interior walls of the waterproof container.
[0018] Once the dry ice is secured or enclosed, least a portion of
the beverage may then be consumed by drinking from the waterproof
container as the smoke is being generated from the dry ice.
[0019] Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the
invention will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the
art upon examination of the following figures and detailed
description. It is intended that all such additional systems,
methods, features and advantages be included within this
description, be within the scope of the invention, and be protected
by the accompanying claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale,
emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of
the invention. In the figures, like reference numerals designate
corresponding parts throughout the different views.
[0021] FIG. 1A is a front perspective view of an exemplary drinking
vessel;
[0022] FIG. 1B is a front perspective view of an exemplary drinking
vessel;
[0023] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an exemplary filter for a
drinking vessel;
[0024] FIG. 2B is a top view of an exemplary filter for a drinking
vessel;
[0025] FIG. 2C is a side view of an exemplary filter for a drinking
vessel;
[0026] FIG. 2D is a bottom view of an exemplary filter for a
drinking vessel;
[0027] FIG. 3A is a top view of an exemplary filter;
[0028] FIG. 3B is a top view of an exemplary filter;
[0029] FIG. 3C is a top view of an exemplary filter;
[0030] FIG. 3D is a top view of an exemplary filter;
[0031] FIG. 4A is a front perspective view illustrating an
exemplary drinking vessel holding dry ice;
[0032] FIG. 4B is a front perspective view illustrating an
exemplary drinking vessel holding dry ice enclosed by an exemplary
filter;
[0033] FIG. 4A is a front perspective view illustrating an
exemplary drinking vessel holding a beverage and dry ice enclosed
by an exemplary filter;
[0034] FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of an exemplary drinking
vessel;
[0035] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of an exemplary filter;
[0036] FIG. 6A is a front perspective view of an exemplary drinking
vessel; and
[0037] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of an exemplary filter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0038] In the following description, numerous specific details are
set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the
present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in
the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these
specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not
been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
[0039] In general, the drinking vessel disclosed herein allows
traditional ice to be replaced with dry ice. The drinking vessel
allows dry ice to be used in chilling a drink that may be consumed
directly from the drinking vessel. As will be disclosed further
below, the drinking vessel includes one or more compartments that
secure the dry ice to protect the user from direct contact with the
dry ice. This prevents the user from being injured by the very cold
temperature of the dry ice.
[0040] In this manner, the dry ice may be used to cool a drink or
keep a drink cool without introducing water into the drink, like
ice made from water would. In addition, the use of dry ice produces
a highly engaging and entertaining effect in that it causes the
drinking vessel to produce smoke as the dry ice "melts". A user may
drink from the drinking vessel even while smoke billows from the
drinking vessel.
[0041] The drinking vessel 136 will now be described with regard to
FIGS. 1A-1B. As can be seen, the drinking vessel 136 may comprise a
vessel 104 for holding a drink. Typically, a drink will comprise
one or more liquid ingredients that may range in viscosity. In
addition, some drinks may comprise one or more solid ingredients.
The drinking vessel 136 would be able to accept a wide variety of
drinks, chill such drinks with dry ice, and produce smoke, even for
drinks of various compositions.
[0042] The drinking vessel 136 may have a variety of
configurations. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, the drinking
vessel 136 comprises a conical vessel 104 that is supported by an
elongated stem 108 and a base 112. In FIG. 1B, the drinking vessel
136 comprises a cylindrical vessel 104 that itself forms a base
112. Other configurations are possible as well. For example, the
drinking vessel 136 may have one or more handles and/or lids in
some embodiments. The drinking vessel 136 may also include a straw
or spout in some embodiments.
[0043] The vessel 104 may be a water-tight container in one or more
embodiments. This allows the vessel 104 to hold liquids without
leaking The vessel 104 may have an opening 128 to allow it to be
filled and to allow a user to drink from the vessel 104. For
instance, as shown, the vessel 104 comprises a rim 132 which
defines an opening through 128 which the vessel 104 may be filled
and through which a user may drink from the vessel. As shown, in
FIGS. 1A-1B, the opening 128 is defined by a rim 132 of the vessel
104. It is contemplated that the opening 128 could be a spout or
the like in some embodiments. It is also contemplated that multiple
openings 128 could be provided. For example, a first opening 128
may be configured to allow a user to drink from the vessel 104
while a second opening may be configured to allow smoke to escape
from the vessel. In one embodiment, a lid that covers an opening
128 may be included, such as to prevent accidental spills. Such lid
may include one or more of its own openings configured to allow
smoke to escape from the vessel and/or to allow a user to drink
from the vessel.
[0044] The vessel 104 may have multiple compartments or sections in
one or more embodiments. For instance, the vessel 104 may have an
upper section 124 and a lower section 120. The sections 124,120 may
be delineated by one or more filter mounts 116 of the vessel 104.
As will be disclosed further below, the filter mounts 116 may be
configured to secure a filter in the vessel 104 to prevent dry ice
from coming into contact with a user. In one or more embodiments,
the filter may seal or enclose the dry ice within the lower section
120 of the vessel 104 and away from contact with the user, even
where a user drinks out of the vessel. As can be seen, the filter
mounts 116 may be configured as protrusions that engage a portion
of a filter to secure the filter in position.
[0045] FIGS. 2A-2D illustrate various views of an exemplary filter
204. In general, the filter 204 is configured to secure dry ice
within a section or compartment of the vessel while allowing the
dry ice to cool or chill a drink. In one or more embodiments, the
filter 204 may comprise a body 208 that provides a frame or
structure which may support the other elements of the filter. As
can be seen, the body 208 may have a top 228 and a bottom 232. The
body 208 may be shaped to conform to the shape of a vessel.
Referring to FIG. 1A for example, the body 208 may share a taper,
from its top 228 to its bottom 232, of a similar or the same angle
as that of the vessel 104. In this manner, the body 208 may form a
seal with the vessel at the body's periphery. This helps ensure
that dry ice contained by the filter does not escape and come into
contact with a user.
[0046] In general, the body 208 will have a peripheral shape and
size that corresponds to the shape and size of the vessel 104
within which it will be installed. In one or more embodiments, the
body 208 may have a peripheral shape and size defined by the
section or portion of the vessel 104 at which the filter 204 will
be installed. For example, referring to FIG. 1A, the filter body
208 may have a circular shape and a diameter matching that of the
section of the vessel 104 where the filter mounts 116 are
located.
[0047] The top 228 of the body 208 may support one or more tabs 216
or the like which allow a user to more easily manipulate the filter
204, such as to install or remove the filter into or from a vessel.
The tabs 216 may extend from the top 228 of the body 208 in one or
more embodiments. In this manner, the tabs 216 provide a structure
which a user may grasp, push, pull, or otherwise engage to install
and remove the filter into or from a vessel. The tabs 216 may have
various shapes and sizes. Smaller sizes would generally be less
visible (for aesthetic purposes) while larger sizes may provide a
larger surface for a user to engage. It is contemplated that tabs
216 may not be included in all embodiments since the user may
engage the body 208 of the filter to install and remove the filter
though this may be more difficult. It is also contemplated that the
tabs 216 could be replaced with indentations in the body 208 or
other depressions in the body. Alternatively, at least a portion of
the top 228 may be textured to allow a user to engage and
manipulate the filter 204. The texture would provide increased
friction between the user and the filter 204 to make such
manipulation easier.
[0048] The body 208 may include elements which engage the filter
mounts of a vessel and thus secure the filter 204 to the vessel. As
can be seen from FIGS. 2A, 2C, and 2D for example, the body 208 may
comprise one or more protruding threads 224A,224B that allow the
filter 204 to be secured to a vessel by twisting the filter onto
one or more filter mounts. The threads 224A,224B may protrude from
the periphery of the body 208 such as shown. In one or more
embodiments and as will be described further below, the protruding
threads 224A,224B may be angled such that rotating the filter
causes the filter 204 to be pulled into contact with the vessel
wall. As the filter 204 is rotated further, the body 208 may press
against the vessel wall thus securing the filter to the vessel.
[0049] In addition, as can be seen, the protruding threads
224A,224B may be tapered in some embodiments. This allows a mount
to more easily enter between two threads 224A,224B. In this manner,
the filter 204 is more easily installed and secured.
[0050] The filter 204 may comprise one or more permeable areas 220.
In general, the permeable areas 220 are configured to allow liquids
to pass through while generally preventing non-liquids (such as
particles) from passing through. The permeable areas 220 may be
adjusted to allow small particles to pass through but not larger
particles, such as by changing the size of one or more openings in
the permeable areas 220.
[0051] The permeable areas 220 themselves may have various
configurations. For example, in FIGS. 2A-2C, the permeable areas
220 may comprise a one or more permeable elements 236, such as a
cloth, sponge, mesh, fabric, textile, or other permeable element. A
permeable element 236 may have a planar configuration having a
small height, or may be more block-like by having an increased
height as will be discussed further below.
[0052] As can be seen, a permeable element 236, may be supported by
the support members 212, in one or more embodiments. This is
especially beneficial in embodiments where the permeable element
236 is flexible since it prevents excessive sagging, flexing, or
bending at the permeable areas 220 which would be unsightly,
unappetizing, and potentially damaging to the permeable element
236.
[0053] FIGS. 2A-2B show the top 228 of an exemplary filter 204
while FIG. 2D shows a perspective view of the bottom 232 of the
filter. In some embodiments, the bottom of the filter 204 may be
open and not have any support members 212, such as shown in FIG.
2D. This would allow, for example, a permeable element 236 or to be
installed and removed from the bottom of the filter 204. For
instance, a permeable element 236 could be inserted into the bottom
of the filter 204 and held in place by a friction fit or by one or
more fasteners. The permeable element 236 may be inserted such that
it is adjacent or in contact with the bottom surface or side of one
or more support members 212. This is illustrated in the embodiment
of FIG. 2D.
[0054] The permeable element 236 of the filter 204 may only extend
a portion of the distance between the top 228 and bottom 232 of the
filter in some embodiments. For example, the permeable element 236
could be a planer structure at the top half or top portion of the
filter 204, such as shown in FIG. 2D. It is noted that though
illustrated in FIG. 2D as being at the top portion of the filter
204, the permeable element 236 may be at a middle portion or at the
bottom 232 of the filter in some embodiments.
[0055] Alternatively, the permeable element 236 of the filter 204
may extend from the top 228 to the bottom of the filter 204 in some
embodiments. This is like the block-like embodiment disclosed
above. The bottom of the filter 204 may have one or more separate
support members 212 to support one or more permeable elements 236
at the bottom 232 of the filter. Alternatively or in addition, one
or more support members 212 may extend from the top 228 of the
filter 204 to the bottom 232 of the filter. In the case of the
filter shown, this would create pie shaped permeable areas 220
where similarly shaped permeable elements 236 may be held or
secured.
[0056] FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate various embodiments of filters 204.
As can be seen, the permeable area 220 or areas of a filter 204 may
have various configurations. For instance, FIG. 3A shows an
embodiment where the body 208 of the filter 204 supports a
permeable element 236 comprising a mesh. FIG. 3B shows an
embodiment where the permeable area 220 is formed into the body
208. Namely, the permeable element of FIG. 3B comprises a plurality
of openings formed into the body 208. Similarly, the embodiment of
FIG. 3C has a permeable element 236 comprising a plurality of
openings. In FIG. 3C, the openings are elongated slots formed into
the body 208 of the filter 204. FIG. 3D illustrates a permeable
element 236 comprising a fabric, textile, paper or other fibrous
filter.
[0057] It is noted that FIG. 3D also illustrates an alternate tab
216 configuration. As can be seen, the tab 216 in FIG. 3D forms a
semi-circular handle. In such embodiments, the tab 216 may be
mounted to hinges or pivots such that it may be raised when
installing or removing the filter 204 from a vessel. The tab 216
may then be lowered such that it is flat on the body 208 of the
filter 204, such as shown in FIG. 3D.
[0058] FIG. 4A-4C illustrate operation of the drinking vessel and
filter. Referring to FIG. 4A, it can be seen that dry ice 404 may
be placed within the vessel 104 of the drinking vessel through the
opening 128 of the vessel 104. The dry ice 404 may rest at a lower
section 120 of the vessel 104.
[0059] A filter 204 may then be used to enclose or secure the dry
ice 404 in the lower section 120 of the vessel 104. For instance,
as can be seen in FIG. 4B, the filter 204 may be placed over the
dry ice 404 and enclose the dry ice in a lower section 120 of the
vessel 104. This may occur in a variety of ways. For example, in
the threaded embodiment of the filter 204 shown, a filter mount 116
may engage one or more threads 224A,224B of the filter 204. The
filter 204 may then be rotated. As this rotation occurs, the mount
116 may enter between the threads 224A,224B. The angle of the
threads 224A,224B may pull the filter 204 downward as the filter is
rotated. In tapered embodiments (where either the filter 204 or the
vessel, or both are tapered), the downward motion pulls the filter
204 against the vessel wall thus allowing the filter to be
tightened against the vessel 104 and secured to the vessel. It is
noted that the space between threads 224A,22B may narrow to cause
the mount 116 to become lodged between the thread, thus securing
the filter 204 to the vessel 104.
[0060] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the one or more
threads 224A,22B may be recessed channels rather than protrusions
extending from the filter body 208. In such embodiments, the mount
116 may enter a thread 224A,224B (rather than being positioned
between threads). The filter 204 may then be secured or tightened
to the vessel 104 by twisting or rotating the filter, such as
discussed above. Recessed threads 224A,224B may be tapered in some
embodiments so as to provide a narrowing channel which causes a
mount 116 to become lodged therein as the filter 204 is rotated,
thus securing the filter.
[0061] It is contemplated that a stop may be provided to prevent
further rotation once the filter 204 is secured to the vessel 104.
For example, a protrusion between the threads 224A,224B may be
provided to stop the mount 116 from rotating out from between the
threads in embodiments where protruding threads are provided. In
embodiments where the threads 224A,224B are recessed channels, the
stop may be the end of the channel which forms the thread since
this would prevent further rotation of the thread once the mount
came into contact with the end of the channel.
[0062] Once the filter 204 is attached to the vessel wall, such as
shown in FIG. 4B, the dry ice 404 is enclosed by the filter within
the lower section 120 of the vessel 104. Friction between the
filter mount 116 and the threads 224A,224B may also help secure the
filter 204 in place. It is noted that in some embodiments, the
threads 224A,224B and filter mounts 116 may themselves create
enough friction to secure the filter 204 in place. In such
embodiments, the filter body 208 may but need not contact the
vessel wall when the filter 204 is installed. Once the filter 204
is secured, the dry ice 404 is held enclosed within the lower
section 120 of the vessel 104. In one or more embodiments, the
filter 204 may be removed by rotating the filter in a direction
opposite that used to install or secure the filter to the vessel
104.
[0063] A drink may then be introduced into the vessel 104. To
illustrate, as shown in FIG. 4C, a liquid 408, such as a drink, has
been poured into the vessel 104. As can be seen the liquid 408 may
flow into the lower section 120 of the vessel 104, where the dry
ice 404 is held. This is beneficial in that it allows the liquid
408 to come into contact with the dry ice 404 and thus be chilled
by the dry ice. The one or more permeable elements of the filter
204 allow the liquid 408 to flow into the lower section 120 of the
vessel 104.
[0064] The filter 204 also provides a barrier that secures the dry
ice 404 within the lower section 120 of the vessel 104. The one or
more permeable elements of the filter 204 may have such small
openings such that dry ice particles cannot pass through the
permeable elements, even as the dry ice becomes smaller as it
melts. This prevents the dry ice 404 from coming into contact with
a user. As stated above, dry ice 404 has a very low temperature and
will cause injury if in direct contact with a user's skin. With the
filter 204 installed in the vessel 104 a user may safely drink a
chilled drink from the drinking vessel. The filter 204 secures the
dry ice 404 in the lower section 120 of the vessel 104 even if the
drinking vessel is tipped, such as when a user drinks from the
drinking vessel. Even if the drinking vessel is knocked over, the
filter 204 will contain the dry ice 404 within the lower section
120 of the vessel 104. In this manner, there is little, if any,
risk that someone will come into direct contact with the dry ice
404.
[0065] Referring now to FIG. 4C, it can be seen that the drinking
vessel and filter 204 produce a highly engaging and enticing drink.
More specifically, as the liquid 408 comes into contact with the
dry ice 404 and the dry ice begins to melt, smoke may begin to
billow out of the opening 128 of the vessel 104. Smoke may also
"spill" or flow over the rim 132 of the vessel 104. While this is
occurring, users may continue to drink out of the vessel 104 while
the filter 204 prevents the dry ice 404 generating the smoke from
coming into contact with the user.
[0066] It is contemplated that a filter may be mounted in a vessel
in various ways. For example, a vessel may be configured with
various filter mounts and a filter may comprise various shapes or
elements that engage such filter mounts to secure the filter in the
vessel to form a compartment at the lower section of the vessel
which holds dry ice. FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate filter mounts 504
comprising indentations or channels in the vessel 104 wall. These
filter mounts 504 accept a mounting tab 508 of a filter 204, such
as that shown in FIG. 5B. The mounting tabs 508A,508B may be
aligned with the filter mounts 504A,504B and then rotated to secure
the tabs within the filter mounts, thus securing the filter 204 to
the vessel 104. In the embodiment shown, the filter mounts
504A,504B have an entry point 512 where the mounting tabs 508A,508B
may first enter the mounts.
[0067] In the embodiment shown, the filter mounts 504A,504B are "L"
shaped. In this manner, the entry points 512 are located at least
slightly above the remainder of the filter mounts 504A,504B. In a
tapered vessel this causes the entry points 512 to be spaced
further apart from one another thus allowing the mounting tabs
508A,508B to be more easily inserted into the filter mounts. It is
noted that the filter mounts 504A,504B need not be "L" shaped. For
example, the filter mounts 504A,504B may be linear. In such
embodiments, an entry point 512 may comprise a portion or section
of a filter mount 504A,504B that is enlarged or otherwise shaped to
allow a mounting tab 508A,508B to enter the filter mount.
[0068] In the embodiment of FIGS. 5A-5B, the filter 204 may be
installed by inserting the mounting tabs 508A,508B into the entry
points 512 and then rotating the filter such that the mounting tabs
move away from the entry points within the filter mounts 504A,504B,
thus securing the mounting tabs and filter to the vessel 104. To
remove the filter 204, the mounting tabs 508A,508B may be rotated
back toward the entry points 512 and then removed from the filter
mounts 504A,504B, releasing the filter 204 from the vessel 104. It
is noted that the filter mounts 504A,504B may extend various
lengths around the vessel 104. In some embodiments, the filter
mounts 504A,504B may be angled downward to pull the filter 204
downward as the filter's mounting tabs 508A,508B are moved within
the filter mounts. In tapered vessels 104, this allows the filter
204 to be pulled into a narrow section of a vessel thus securing
the filter by friction between the filter body and the vessel wall.
It is contemplated that the filter mounts 504A,504B may also taper.
In such embodiments, as the mounting tabs 508A,508B move into
narrower sections of the filter mounts 508A,508B, the filter mounts
clamp the mounting tabs in position, thus securing the filter 204
in place.
[0069] FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate another exemplary embodiment of the
drinking vessel. As can be seen, the filter mount 504 in this
embodiment comprises a channel extending around the vessel 104. The
filter mount 504 may extend all the way around the vessel 104 in
one or more embodiments. The filter 204 may have a mounting tab 508
configured to fit within the filter mount 504. As can be seen, the
mounting tab 508 may also extend all the way around the filter 204.
This allows a barrier to be formed around the body of the filter
204 when the mounting tab 508 is inserted into the filter mount
504. It is contemplated that the mounting tab 508 need not extend
fully around the filter 204 to properly secure the filter to the
vessel 104. The body 208 of the filter may be shaped and sized to
form a seal with the vessel 104 to seal dry ice within a lower
section 120 of the vessel 104.
[0070] It is contemplated that a mounting tab 508 may be flexible
in some embodiments to allow the mounting tab to be more easily
inserted into a filter mount 504. For example, the mounting tab 508
may comprise an elastic, flexible, or resilient material, such as
rubber or the like. The mounting tab 508 may then bend, flex,
and/or compress to allow it to be inserted into the filter mount
504. Once in the filter mount 504, the mounting tab 508 may return
to its original state.
[0071] A flexible mounting tab 508 is useful in installing and
removing a filter 204 especially where the filter and drinking
vessel 104 are rigid and inflexible. It is contemplated that the
filter 204 may itself be flexible in some embodiments. For example,
the filter 204 may comprise a body 208 made from an elastic,
flexible or resilient material. Permeable element(s) 136 of the
filter could also be made from flexible materials, such as
textiles, fibers, sponge, or the like. In such embodiments, the
filter body 208 may be bent, flexed, compressed, or otherwise
manipulated to allow its mounting tab 508 to be inserted into the
filter mount 504. The body 208 may then return to its original
shape.
[0072] While various embodiments of the invention have been
described, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible
that are within the scope of this invention. In addition, the
various features, elements, and embodiments described herein may be
claimed or combined in any combination or arrangement.
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