U.S. patent application number 13/473500 was filed with the patent office on 2012-11-22 for drinking vessel configured for removable engagement with a capped bottle.
Invention is credited to Christopher J. Kornbrust.
Application Number | 20120292283 13/473500 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47174165 |
Filed Date | 2012-11-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120292283 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kornbrust; Christopher J. |
November 22, 2012 |
DRINKING VESSEL CONFIGURED FOR REMOVABLE ENGAGEMENT WITH A CAPPED
BOTTLE
Abstract
A drinking vessel configured for a removable engagement with the
capped end of a bottle through engagement with the bottle or the
cap. The device features a fluid cavity separated from a base
cavity by a central wall, which is configured for drinking or
pouring a measured amount of liquid therefrom. The device is
engageable to the bottle or cap by insertion of the cap end of the
bottle, into a cavity in the base end, and exerting force along an
axial line running through the bottle. A frictional engagement
between surfaces of the device and the bottle is achieved which may
be enhanced by biasing components.
Inventors: |
Kornbrust; Christopher J.;
(San Diego, CA) |
Family ID: |
47174165 |
Appl. No.: |
13/473500 |
Filed: |
May 16, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61486680 |
May 16, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
215/228 ;
215/387 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 41/26 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
215/228 ;
215/387 |
International
Class: |
B65D 41/26 20060101
B65D041/26; B65D 21/032 20060101 B65D021/032 |
Claims
1. A drinking vessel configured for a removable engagement with a
bottle having a cap engageable to a first end which is opposite a
base end, comprising: a vessel portion having a first cavity
defined by an inner surface of a sidewall extending to a lip; a
base portion having a second cavity defined by an inner surface of
said sidewall extending to an edge; said first cavity and said
second cavity separated by an engagement to a central portion of
said drinking vessel; means for frictional engagement to at least
one of said cap or said first end of said bottle, positioned within
said second cavity; said drinking vessel positionable from a
removed position, to an engaged position in said frictional
engagement with at least one of said cap or said first end of said
bottle, by an exertion of force to said drinking vessel in a vector
running from said first end of said bottle toward said base, and
whereby said drinking vessel is employable for drinking liquid from
said first cavity when in said removed position and storable in a
combination with said bottle when placed in said engaged position
by said user.
2. The drinking vessel of claim 1 wherein means for frictional
engagement to at least one of said cap or said first end of said
bottle comprises: an cylindrical pathway extending from an a first
end at a central portion of said sidewall of said second cavity
toward said edge of said second cavity, along an axis within said
second cavity; said cylindrical pathway having a central surface
defining a circumference slightly larger than said cap or said
first end of said bottle; at least one annular protrusion extending
from a first end at said central surface to an opposite annular
distal surface; said annular distal surface having a circumference
equal to or slightly smaller than one of said cap or said first end
of said bottle to which said drinking vessel engages; and a contact
of said distal surface against a respective circumferential surface
of at least one of said first end of said bottle, or said cap,
providing said frictional engagement between said drinking vessel
and said bottle.
3. The drinking vessel of claim 2 additionally comprising: said
annular protrusion formed of an elastic compressible material; and
a compression of said annular protrusion by a contact with one of
said cap or said first end of said bottle, imparting a rebound
force to said protrusion; said rebound force communicated to said
annular distal surface in said contact against said circumferential
surface thereby enhancing said frictional engagement.
4. The drinking vessel of claim 2 additionally comprising: two said
annular protrusions formed of two said elastic compressible
polymeric material; a compression of said two annular protrusion by
respective contacts with one of said cap or said first end of said
bottle, imparting a rebound force to said two protrusions; said
rebound force communicated to respective said annular distal
surfaces of each of said two protrusions, in said contact against
said circumferential surface thereby enhancing said frictional
engagement.
5. The drinking vessel of claim 1 wherein means for frictional
engagement to at least one of said cap or said first end of said
bottle comprises: an cylindrical pathway extending from an a first
end adjacent to a central portion of said sidewall of said second
cavity toward said edge of said second cavity, along an axis within
said second cavity; said cylindrical pathway having a central
surface of a sidewall which defines a circumference of said
cylindrical pathway; said circumference being slightly larger than
said cap or said first end of said bottle; a plurality of opposing
flexible members formed by parallel gaps in said sidewall; said
flexible members running substantially parallel to said axis, from
a first end determined by a termination of said parallel gaps along
said sidewall, to a distal end; projections positioned adjacent to
said distal ends; said projections extending a distance from a base
at said central surface a distal surface portion; opposing said
distal surface portions upon opposing said flexible members, having
a distance therebetween, less than said circumference of said
cylindrical pathway; and said opposing surface portions providing
said frictional engagement to at least one of said cap or said
first end of said bottle.
6. The drinking vessel of claim 5 additionally comprising: contact
of said opposing surface portions with said one of said cap or
first end of said bottle in said frictional engagement, causing a
deflection of said opposing flexible members from a static
position, to a deflected position in a direction away from said
contact; said deflection imparting a rebound force to said flexible
members in a direction toward said static position; and said
rebound force enhancing said frictional engagement.
7. The drinking vessel of claim 6 additionally comprising: said
projections positioned adjacent to said distal ends at respective
locations configured to cause said projections to slide over an
annular ring extending from an exterior surface of said first end
of said bottle, during said deflections of said opposing flexible
members to an engagement with a side edge of said annular ring.
8. The drinking vessel of claim 6 additionally comprising: said
projections being generally smooth and rounded.
9. The drinking vessel of claim 6 additionally comprising: said
plurality of opposing flexible members additionally having
secondary projections thereon extending to a pointed tip; said
secondary projections positioned upon said flexible members to
position said pointed tip within a threaded portion of said first
end of said bottle; and whereby said pointed tips form a mechanical
engagement within said threads when said drinking vessel is placed
in said engaged position.
10. The drinking vessel of claim 7 additionally comprising: said
plurality of opposing flexible members additionally having
secondary projections thereon extending to a pointed tip; said
secondary projections positioned upon said flexible members to
position said pointed tip within a threaded portion of said first
end of said bottle; and whereby said pointed tips form a mechanical
engagement within said threads when said drinking vessel is placed
in said engaged position.
11. The drinking vessel of claim 8 additionally comprising: said
plurality of opposing flexible members additionally having
secondary projections thereon extending to a pointed tip; said
secondary projections positioned upon said flexible members to
position said pointed tip within a threaded portion of said first
end of said bottle; and whereby said pointed tips form a mechanical
engagement within said threads when said drinking vessel is placed
in said engaged position.
12. The drinking vessel of claim 9 additionally comprising: said
plurality of opposing flexible members additionally having
secondary projections thereon extending to a pointed tip; said
secondary projections positioned upon said flexible members to
position said pointed tip within a threaded portion of said first
end of said bottle; and whereby said pointed tips form a mechanical
engagement within said threads when said drinking vessel is placed
in said engaged position.
13. The drinking vessel of claim 2 additionally comprising: said
first cavity having a volume of between 1.0 and 2.0 ounces; and
whereby said drinking vessel is employable for drinking liquid in
said volume, and, for measuring liquid during a cocktail mixing or
pouring.
14. The drinking vessel of claim 3 additionally comprising: said
first cavity having a volume of between 1.0 and 2.0 ounces; said
compressible material positioned at a pitch angle to substantially
match an angle of threads at said first end of said bottle; said
compressible material rotationally engageable with said threads, or
translationally engageable to said frictional engagement with said
first end of said bottle; and whereby said drinking vessel is
employable for drinking liquid in said volume, and, for measuring
liquid during a cocktail mixing or a pouring of said liquid.
15. The drinking vessel of claim 4 additionally comprising: said
first cavity having a volume of between 1.0 and 2.0 ounces; and
whereby said drinking vessel is employable for drinking liquid in
said volume, and, for measuring liquid during a cocktail mixing or
a pouring of said liquid.
16. The drinking vessel of claim 5 additionally comprising: said
first cavity having a volume of between 1.0 and 2.0 ounces; and
whereby said drinking vessel is employable for drinking liquid in
said volume, and, for measuring liquid during a cocktail mixing or
a pouring of said liquid.
17. The drinking vessel of claim 6 additionally comprising: said
first cavity having a volume of between 1.0 and 2.0 ounces; and
whereby said drinking vessel is employable for drinking liquid in
said volume, and, for measuring liquid during a cocktail mixing or
a pouring of said liquid.
18. The drinking vessel of claim 7 additionally comprising: said
first cavity having a volume of between 1.0 and 2.0 ounces; and
whereby said drinking vessel is employable for drinking liquid in
said volume, and, for measuring liquid during a cocktail mixing or
a pouring of said liquid.
19. The drinking vessel of claim 8 additionally comprising: said
first cavity having a volume of between 1.0 and 2.0 ounces; and
whereby said drinking vessel is employable for drinking liquid in
said volume, and, for measuring liquid during a cocktail mixing or
a pouring of said liquid.
20. The drinking vessel of claim 9 additionally comprising: said
first cavity having a volume of between 1.0 and 2.0 ounces; and
whereby said drinking vessel is employable for drinking liquid in
said volume, and, for measuring liquid during a cocktail mixing or
a pouring of said liquid.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit or U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 61/486,680, filed May 16, 2011, and
incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. The present
invention relates to drinking vessels.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] More particularly, it relates to a drinking or measuring
glass which is configured for a removable engagement with the
capped end of a bottle.
[0004] 2. Prior Art
[0005] In the fast paced world of bartending and nightclubs, it is
wells known that faster service breeds happier customers and that
happier customers tend to leave better tips for the serving staff.
Measuring of the pour of alcohol to mixer is the most time
consuming portion of providing cocktail service, and can be
inhibited by the lack of a measuring vessel for the alcohol
portion.
[0006] Individuals attending a party or picnic have the same needs
for making mixed cocktails, if not an enhanced need since a non
professional is generally unable to estimate a proper pour
measurement for the alcoholic portion of a mixed drink.
Additionally, for the more refined alcohol consuming individuals
who enjoy aged or fine liquor, adding such to a mixer may not be
their choice of use. However, such users frequently choose to sip a
fine alcoholic beverage slowly either straight up or in measured
amounts on ice. Additionally, it is well known that college
students have a proclivity to inbibe which can require the
employment of a measured drinking vessel being handy from which to
pour and measure before drinking from the glass.
[0007] As a consequence, from professionals to social drinkers,
there is a continual need for the easy acquisition of a measured
drinking or measuring vessel such as what is conventionally termed
a shot glass. This one vessel allows bartenders and amateurs to
properly mix the desired ratio of alcohol to mixer, and to simply
empty the shot glass should direct consumption in a measured amount
be desirable.
[0008] Additionally, in any given bar or adult nightclub, one can
conventionally find measured drinking vessels such as pint glasses,
wine glasses, the occasional champagne flute, and of course, the
frequently requested shot glass. Since shot glasses are
conventionally small, holding only about 1 ounce to 1.5 ounces of
fluid, bartenders and patrons of the like are continually in need
of having such shot glasses readily available for both measuring
and for direct employment in drinking measured amounts of
liquid.
[0009] Prior art has shown many attempts to provide shot glasses
which double as or are part of the bottle cap for a bottle or the
like. US. Pat. App. Pub. 2008/0011710 A1 to Cohn and US. Pat. App.
Pub. 2008/0116164 A1 to Dellinger et. al. teach a combined shot
glass and bottle cap. The shot glass of Cohn includes a threaded
base portion adapted for watertight engagement with the often
threaded top of a liquor bottle while Dellinger includes a threaded
portion located at the inside top lip area of the shot glass.
[0010] However, given the wide variety of manufacturers of liquor
and bottles with many having slightly different diameters and
different threads, the threaded portions of Cohn and Dellinger are
not easily employed even with bottles which may be virtually equal
in size. This is because the threads of the prior art would need to
be formed to vary according to this wide variety of conventional
bottles and caps and threads and the resulting costs for
manufacture and distribution required to accommodate this plethora
of threaded engagements and bottle types. Further, because a
threaded engagement normally takes a bit of time to rotationally
engage mating threaded surfaces, users are liable to not employ
such devices in the busy confines of a bar or at a lively
party.
[0011] Furthermore, the threads of Cohn are located on the base of
the actual liquid holding portion of the shot glass, which in use
is employed as a user drinking vessel. Threading the bottle into
the same space occupied by what a user drinks, can expose the
contents of the body to the pathogens known to inhabit the human
mouth if the device is not washed first which is highly possible.
To subsequently replace this cap as a bottle cap is at best
unsanitary. In addition, as noted, providing threads as a means for
engagement to a bottle requires a bartender to constantly thread
and unthread a shot glass as needed, and as noted above, taking
longer by doing this task runs the risk of reducing possible earned
tips.
[0012] As such there is a continuing and unmet need for a measured
volume drinking vessel such as a shot glass or similar drinking
vessel, which is configured to provide quick, easy, and sanitary
removable engagement, with the bottle from which the user intends
to measure or drink. Such a device should be configured for easy
and quick engagement and disengagement to a wide variety of bottles
or bottle caps to allow widespread use. Such a device should be
configured to keep germs and pathogens from the user's mouth and
face, separated from the contents of the bottle when the device is
reattached. Such a device should be easy to mount and dismount from
its bottle mounting but still provide a secure mount and in some
instances a sealed engagement with the bottle itself.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The device herein disclosed and described provides a
solution to the shortcomings in prior art and achieves the above
noted goals through the provision of a measured volume drinking and
measuring vessel, shown and described as a shot glass. The shot
glass is configured for universal removable engagement over a
bottle cap and engaged therewith to the underlying bottle.
[0014] In the particularly preferred modes, the disclosed device
includes a cylindrical body having a measured fluid vessel portion
physically separated from a formed base portion at the opposite end
of a centrally located wall. The base portion, so separated,
inhibits pathogens from getting into the bottle and has a formed
means for removable engagement to a bottle or cap as part of the
cylindrical body.
[0015] In all modes of the device, the fluid vessel portion
typically resembles and is dimensioned as a shot glass as is
conventionally known in the art. The base portion generally
includes a circular recess defined by a surrounding sidewall and
means for engagement for maintaining the device in an engaged
position to the top of a bottle cap or the cappable bottle. The
biasing of the frictional engagement may be provided by a
circumferential protrusion disposed within the circular recess of
the base or one or a plurality of similarly disposed compressible
but rebounding O-rings, both of which provide a means for snap over
fit type engagement. Alternatively, flexible members having
projections and/or secondary thread engaging projections provide
means for engagement to the bottle or cap.
[0016] It is an advantage of this and other modes of the present
invention to provide a "snap on" means for quick removable
engagement to a bottle or cap in that it provides quick and easy
operation to encourage use. Such an engagement requires no
rotational thread engagement and separates and rejoins with the
force exerted axially by the user's grip of the device.
[0017] Additionally, the engagement between the bottle and the
device maintains separation from the drinking end of the device and
the bottle threads, and as such it does not come into direct
contact with the threaded portion of a bottle which can risk
contaminating the enclosed liquor with pathogens from surfaces on
which such a device sits. Furthermore, in all modes of the device,
the original screw on or compressed cap can remain on the liquor
bottle as intended by the manufacturer.
[0018] In another particularly preferred mode biased frictional
engagement between the device and the bottle or cap, can be
maintained using a rebound type biasing means such as opposing
flexible members, protrusions or O-ring disposed within the
circular recess of the base portion which are configured in pitch
and projection to optionally provide a means to engage to the
threads of a bottle or projections from the exterior of the bottle
surface. In this mode, the device is also employable to replace a
lost or otherwise unwanted bottle cap.
[0019] In yet another particularly preferred mode the device
includes a universal bottle cap that is designed for removable
engagement with the device. The universal bottle cap simply
replaces the existing bottle cap of the liquor bottle and is
specifically purposed for removable engagement with the device.
[0020] With respect to the above description, before explaining at
least one preferred embodiment of the herein disclosed invention in
detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in
its application to the details of construction and to the
arrangement of the components in the following description or
illustrated in the drawings. The invention herein described is
capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out
in various ways which will be obvious to those skilled in the art.
Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology
employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not
be regarded as limiting.
[0021] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
conception upon which this disclosure is based may readily be
utilized as a basis for designing of other structures, methods and
systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present
disclosed drinking vessel device. It is important, therefore, that
the claims be regarded as including such equivalent construction
and methodology insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and
scope of the present invention.
[0022] As used in the claims to describe the various inventive
aspects and embodiments, "comprising" means including, but not
limited to, whatever follows the word "comprising". Thus, use of
the term "comprising" indicates that the listed elements are
required or mandatory, but that other elements are optional and
mayor may not be present. By "consisting of` is meant including,
and limited to, whatever follows the phrase "consisting of". Thus,
the phrase "consisting of" indicates that the listed elements are
required or mandatory, and that no other elements may be present.
By "consisting essentially of" is meant including any elements
listed after the phrase, and limited to other elements that do not
interfere with or contribute to the activity or action specified in
the disclosure for the listed elements. Thus, the phrase
"consisting essentially of" indicates that the listed elements are
required or mandatory, but that other elements are optional and
mayor may not be present depending upon whether or not they affect
the activity or action of the listed elements.
[0023] It is an object of the invention to provide a measuring
vessel such as a shot glass which is configured in an easily
removed engagement to a bottle or cap that is sanitary, easy to
use, and cost effective in manufacture.
[0024] It is another object of the invention to provide a drinking
vessel such as a shot glass with means for removable engagement
which employs an axial force engageable and removable snap fit
style engagement such as provided by O-rings, opposing flexible
members, or similar means for biased frictional engagement with
bottle threads or protrusions.
[0025] It is yet another object of the invention to provide a means
for removable engagement including an O-ring or similar means for
imparting biased frictional engagement disposed at a pitch angle
for optional operative engagement with a threaded portion of a
bottle.
[0026] It is still another object of the invention to provide a
universal bottle cap that is specially designed for engagement with
the shot glass of the present invention.
[0027] Yet another object is the provision of a shot class type
measuring and drinking vessel, which is adapted for easy engagement
over the cap of a bottle, with the exterior of the bottle neck
using flexible members which allow for easy axial force directed
engagement and securement and which may optionally seal the bottle
when so engaged.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING FIGURES
[0028] FIG. 1 shows an elevated view of the device.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the device in a
particularly preferred mode.
[0030] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the device in another
particularly preferred mode.
[0031] FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the device in yet
another particularly preferred mode.
[0032] FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of the device in still
another particularly preferred mode.
[0033] FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the device in a further
particularly preferred mode.
[0034] FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the device in still yet
another particularly preferred mode.
[0035] FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of the device in still a
further particularly preferred mode.
[0036] FIG. 9 shows an elevated view of the device and universal
bottle cap.
[0037] FIG. 10 is a cross sectional view showing the bottle cap
prior to operative engagement with the base portion of the
device.
[0038] FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view showing the device and
bottle cap operatively engaged.
[0039] FIG. 12 shows a cross sectional view of the device in yet a
further particularly preferred mode.
[0040] FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the device the further
particularly preferred mode operatively engaged to the bottle
cap.
[0041] FIG. 14 shows another favored mode of the device having a
plurality of raised surfaces on distal ends of flexible members
which impart a biasing force to a frictional engagement to the
exterior of a bottle, and to provide a means to engage the bottle
itself either adjacent to the cap or with an annular stop ring or
threads provided with bottles for such caps.
[0042] FIG. 14b depicts a particularly favored mode of the device
having the engagement capabilities of that of FIG. 14 or 17, but
also two or more slidable thread engagement projections to
threadably engage with the bottle and allow the device to function
as a sealed cap.
[0043] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the engagement section of
the device and the plurality of engagement members adapted for
enhanced biased frictional engagement with the bottle.
[0044] FIG. 16 depicts the device of FIG. 15, in a non transparent
mode which may be clearer to comprehend.
[0045] FIG. 17 is a side view of a dismounted mode of the device of
FIG. 14.
[0046] FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the device of FIG. 17, taken
along line 18-18.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE
INVENTION
[0047] Now referring to drawings in FIGS. 1-18, wherein similar
components are identified by like reference numerals, there is seen
in FIG. 1 an elevated view of the shot glass device 10 of the
present invention. In all favored modes of the device 10 it
includes a fluid vessel portion 12 and a base portion 16 which is
configured for removable engagement with the cap end of a bottle
25, particularly a liquor bottle 25 for which measurement vessels
are employed for mixology.
[0048] The fluid vessel portion 12 is defined by a cavity 14 formed
by a sidewall extending from a central wall 13 to a lip 15. In a
particularly preferred mode the cavity 14 holds 1 to 1.5 ounces of
fluid. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
device 10 is capable of various size modifications to hold any
amount of fluid and is anticipated in this disclosure. The device
10 may be formed of polymeric material or metal or in some cases
glass, or material of the like known in the art for formation of
measuring vessels such as shot glasses and similar devices.
Furthermore, the device 10 can be manufactured using conventional
manufacturing techniques known in the art.
[0049] FIG. 2 shows a cross sectional view of a mode of the device
10 better depicting a first mode of the base portion 16 which
provides a means for removable engagement with a conventional
bottle cap 29 (FIG. 14) or bottle 25 neck, via a biased frictional
engagement. In all modes the base portion 16 generally includes a
circular recessed cavity 18 defined by an interior wall surface 17
of a surrounding sidewall 23. In one particularly preferred mode,
the device 10 includes a protrusion 20 annular or in multiple
positions around the circumference of the cavity 18, which is
formed by a projection of the interior wall surface 17 of the
cavity 18 as depicted in FIG. 2. The protrusion 20 is particularly
preferred to be formed as a unitary structure with both the base 16
and vessel 12 portion of the device yielding a device 10 formed in
a unitary structure.
[0050] In use, the device 10 in all modes, may be placed over the
top of a capped or uncapped bottle 25 and maintained in an engaged
state, using a cooperative removable engagement with the bottle
neck or cap 29, within the cavity 18 of the base portion 16. The
protrusion 20 provides a means for frictional engagement with the
exterior circumference of a bottle cap 29 in a snap fit type
engagement where the bottle cap 29 circumference is at least equal
to the circumference of the peak of the protrusion 20. Such bottle
caps 21 are conventionally aluminum or plastic and will deform to
accommodate the frictional engagement of the protrusion 20 surface,
which may engage the cap 29 circumference, or just below a lower
edge of the cap 29. The device 10 in this mode, provides a quick,
convenient, and flashy means to store a shot glass without the need
for a threaded engagement which can take a long time to engage due
to the multiple rotations required to engage mating threads.
[0051] In another particularly preferred mode as shown in FIG. 3
the cavity 18 within the base 16 of the device 10 further includes
a first 22 and second 24 annular protrusion disposed on the
interior wall surface 17 as a means for biased frictional
engagement. This mode provides a means for added securement when
engaged to a bottle cap in the as used mode as described. Shown in
FIG. 4 is yet another particularly preferred mode of the device 10
in which the cavity 18 of the base portion 16 includes an annular
recess 26 on the interior wall surface 17 in which an O-ring 28 is
operatively engaged within. This mode further provides a means for
removable biased frictional engagement with a bottle cap and may
provide a tighter fit to a bottle cap given the compression and
rebound flexibility of a typical O-ring 28. Additionally, due to
wear that may occur from repetitive use it may be more advantageous
to have a replaceable O-ring 28 as opposed to the unitary structure
of the mode described in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0052] The O-ring 28 style means for removable engagement is shown
in another particularly preferred mode in FIG. 5. This mode employs
a first annular cavity 30 and a second annular cavity 32 within the
interior wall surface 17 of the base cavity 18. A first 34 and
second 36 O-ring 28 are shown as operatively engaged within.
[0053] Further particularly preferred modes are shown in FIG. 6 and
FIG. 7. There is seen in FIG. 6 an annular cavity 38 within the
interior wall surface 17 that is adapted to engage a concave cross
section O-ring 40. In use upon engagement with a bottle cap it is
preferred that the concave wall of the O-ring 40 engages the
exterior of the surface of the bottle cap 29 shown in FIG. 14 for
instance. In this manner the concavity can create a suctional
engagement providing added security. FIG. 7 shows a first annular
cavity 42 and a second annular cavity 44 within the interior
surface 17 of the base cavity 18. Similarly employed are a first
O-ring 46 and a second O-ring 48.
[0054] FIG. 8 shows still further preferred mode of the device 10
wherein the annular cavity 50 and O-ring 52 are disposed at a pitch
angle, .alpha. 54, relative the horizontal top surface of the
bottle. Such pitch angle 54 is provided to employ the device 10 and
provide means for a threaded engagement with threads 58
conventionally located atop a screw on capped bottle. In this mode
the device 10 doubles as the actual bottle cap. The pitch angle 54
as such corresponds to the pitch angle of the threaded bottle top
to provide secure engagement. It must be noted that the provision
of a pitch angle 54 may be employed on any of the modes previously
disclosed and is not limited to the O-ring style biasing means as
depicted in the figure.
[0055] There is seen in FIG. 9 another preferred mode of the device
10 having a complimentary bottle cap 11. The bottle cap 11 is of
generally the same style and construction of liquor bottle caps
known in the art although further including a annular recessed
cavity 56 about the outer surface 55. The annular cavity 56 is
employed for cooperative engagement with a compressible annular
ring such as an O-ring which forms a means for biased engagement
within the base cavity 18 of the shot glass device 10 of the
present invention. A cross sectional view is shown in FIG. 10
showing the cap 11 having a threaded 58 interior, prior to
cooperative engagement within the cavity 18 of the base portion 16
of the device 10. It must again be noted that the bottle cap 11 can
be employed with any of the modes previously disclosed upon simple
modifications that would be obvious to a person skilled in the art,
and should not be considered limiting by the depiction in the
figure.
[0056] FIG. 11 depicts the device 10 and cap 11 operatively engaged
wherein the O-ring 28 is seated within the recess cavity 56 of the
cap 11.
[0057] A still further mode of the device 10 is shown in FIG. 12.
In this mode the means for biased frictional engagement with a
bottle cap 29 (FIG. 12) is employed within the cavity 14 of the
fluid vessel portion 12. The device 10 in this mode the device
provides a means for removable engagement to a liquor bottle 25
wherein the device 10 is inverted and engaged to a bottle cap such
as that in FIG. 13 or FIG. 14.
[0058] As in FIG. 12 the cavity 14 employs an annular recess 26 on
the interior wall surface 19 in which an O-ring 28 is operatively
engaged within. It must be noted, however, that the employment of a
means for biased frictional engagement within the cavity 14 of the
drinking vessel 12 can be any of those particularly preferred means
for removable engagement preciously disclosed in FIGS. 2-8 and
should not be considered limiting by the depiction.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 13 a cooperative bottle cap 11 is in
operative engagement with the device 10. However, the device 10 in
this mode may similarly be operatively engaged to any existing
bottle 25 or bottle cap 29 (FIG. 14) as noted with the previous
preferred modes, while the engagement with the preferred bottle cap
11 is shown merely for demonstrative purposes.
[0060] It is further noted that the mode of the device 10 shown in
FIGS. 12 and 13 may be employed in combination with any of the
modes of the device 10 in FIGS. 2-8 wherein a means for removable
engagement to a bottle cap is also disposed within the cavity 18 of
the base portion 16. In this manner the employment of the device 10
will be user determined, i.e. removable engagement with either the
base portion 16 or the vessel portion 12.
[0061] FIG. 14 depicts another particularly favored mode of the
device 10 herein having a plurality of raised surfaces 61 at distal
ends of flexible members 63 formed by voids in the sidewall 23
which impart a biasing force, toward an inserted bottle 25 or cap
29 for an enhanced frictional engagement to the exterior of the
bottle 25, or the cap 29 depending on their number and location. As
shown, the raised surfaces 61 form a projection at a position
configured to provide a means to engage the bottle 25 itself either
adjacent to the cap 29 or on the opposite side of an annual stop
ring 67 or the exterior threads 58 provided with conventional
bottles 25 for such caps. As can be seen the number and position of
the raised surfaces 61 may be changed to deflect the flexible
members 63 away from the bottle 25 which causes the inward bias and
increased frictional or mechanical engagement of the flexible
members and raised surfaces 61.
[0062] However, the device 10 is still easily engaged by a simple
sliding of the cavity 18 axially upon the capped end of the bottle
25 since the flexible members 63 and attached raised surfaces 61
will deflect away from any engagement to the bottle or cap while
force is applied in the axial direction of the bottle. Thereafter,
the flexible members 63 impart biased force in the direction of the
axis of the bottle 25 and upon the contacts between the raised
surfaces 61 and their contacts with the exterior of the bottle 25.
An increase in the thickness of the raised surfaces 61 provides a
means to increase biasing pressure whereas thinning it will
decrease biasing pressure if desired.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 14, one preferred mode of the device 10
places the raised surfaces 61 in positions to override an annular
ring 67 conventionally employed on many liquor bottles 25 during
the axial translation which occurs while the user engages the
device 10. Thus, the raised surfaces 61 override the annular ring
67 by a flexing of the flexible members 63 during engagement and
thereafter provide means for engagement of the device 10 to the
bottle 25 which is especially strong. This mode of engagement works
well if the device 10 is employed as the cap and if a seal 71 is
provided as shown in FIG. 14b, the engagement of the raised
surfaces 61 against the side surface of the annular ring 67 is
sufficiently strong to hold the seal 71 compressed and sandwiched
between the sidewall 23 and the top edge of the bottle 25.
[0064] FIG. 14b depicts a particularly favored mode of the device
10 which may employ the engagement capabilities of that of FIG. 14
or 17, but which also may employ two or more slidably engageable
projections 80 which will engage with the threads 58 of the bottle
25 and allow the device 10 to function as a sealed cap. Preferably
a first surface 81 is angled to form a ramp, whereby the bottle
edge 83 and the threads 58 will slide thereon and deflect the
flexible members 63 during a forced axial translation of the device
10 by a user sliding upon the end of the bottle 25. Once that force
ceases, the projections 80 are positioned to engage within the gaps
forming the threads 58. This engagement of the projections 80
within the recesses or gaps of threads or if appropriately
positioned, on the opposite side of the projecting annular ring 67
from the cap end of the bottle 25 provides an especially secure
engagement which is not easily removed by dropping or bumping.
Removal is accomplished by exerting sufficient force in an axial
direction away from the bottom of the bottle 25 and toward the cap
end, to deflect the flexible members 63, or by rotating the device
10 to allow the projections 80 to follow the threads 58 and unscrew
or loosen it from the bottle 25.
[0065] The device 10 may employ the projections 80 in place of the
raised surfaces 61 to engage either or both of the threads 58 and
the annular ring 67. The projections 80 may also be employed with
shorter flexible members 63 so as to engage with the threads 58 of
the bottle 25. A more universally engageable device is provided by
providing flexible members 63 with either the projections 80 at the
distal end to engage a ring 67 and positioned to engage the threads
58 or with projections positioned to engage the threads 58 and the
raised surfaces 61 positioned to engage a ring 67. In this fashion
should the ring 67 not be present, a translatable engagement of the
threads 58 is still achievable, and if the ring 67 is present, the
projections translatabley engage with the threads 58 and a second
engagement is achieved with the side of the ring 67. A seal 71 in
any of the modes of the device of FIGS. 14 and 14b enhances its
ability in that it may also function as a sealed lid should the cap
be lost or need replacing.
[0066] FIGS. 15 and 16 show a perspective view of the device 10 and
the cavity 18 flexible members 63 defined by gaps 85 formed in the
sidewall 23 which is formed of a flexible material such as a
polymeric material or thin metal. As noted the flexible members 63
will deflect when axial force in a direction from the cap
engageable end of the bottle toward its bottom end is applied by
the user with the capped end within the cavity 18. Thus, an easy
and fast means for engagement using translational movement is
provided which encourages use and helps prevent losing the device.
As noted the projections 80 may be used in lieu of the raised
surfaces 61 or in combination therewith.
[0067] FIG. 17 is a side view of a dismounted mode of the device 10
as described and enlarged to aid in depiction of structure. The
flexible members 63 are shown as are the gaps 85 formed in the
sidewall 23 defining them. The raised surface 61 is positioned upon
the flexible members 63 so as to engage with the annular ring. Of
course the configuration of FIG. 14b is also employable
substituting or including the projections 80 in place of or in
combination with the raised surfaces 61. FIG. 18 is a sectional
view of the device of FIG. 17, taken along line 18-18 and showing
the components of the device 10.
[0068] While all of the fundamental characteristics and features of
the invention have been shown and described herein, with reference
to particular embodiments thereof, a latitude of modification,
various changes and substitutions are intended in the foregoing
disclosure and it will be apparent that in some instances, some
features of the invention may be employed without a corresponding
use of other features without departing from the scope of the
invention as set forth. It should also be understood that various
substitutions, modifications, and variations may be made by those
skilled in the art without departing from the spirit or scope of
the invention. Consequently, all such modifications and variations
and substitutions are included within the scope of the invention as
defined by the following claims.
* * * * *