U.S. patent application number 13/958930 was filed with the patent office on 2013-12-12 for flavoring component holding dispenser for use with consumable beverages.
This patent application is currently assigned to COOL GEAR INTERNATIONAL, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is COOL GEAR INTERNATIONAL, LLC. Invention is credited to Donna Roth, Henry Roth, Marco Wo.
Application Number | 20130327788 13/958930 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46329741 |
Filed Date | 2013-12-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130327788 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Roth; Donna ; et
al. |
December 12, 2013 |
FLAVORING COMPONENT HOLDING DISPENSER FOR USE WITH CONSUMABLE
BEVERAGES
Abstract
A dispenser for a bottle that is adapted to contain a consumable
beverage. The dispenser may be reusable to facilitate easy use and
last minute selection of flavoring component for a consumable
beverage.
Inventors: |
Roth; Donna; (Duxbury,
MA) ; Roth; Henry; (Duxbury, MA) ; Wo;
Marco; (Providence, RI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
COOL GEAR INTERNATIONAL, LLC |
Plymouth |
MA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
COOL GEAR INTERNATIONAL,
LLC
Plymouth
MA
|
Family ID: |
46329741 |
Appl. No.: |
13/958930 |
Filed: |
August 5, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13224711 |
Sep 2, 2011 |
8499971 |
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13958930 |
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11931229 |
Oct 31, 2007 |
8011534 |
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13224711 |
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11019488 |
Dec 22, 2004 |
7306117 |
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11931229 |
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10361269 |
Feb 10, 2003 |
6959839 |
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11019488 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
222/83 ;
222/129 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 47/243 20130101;
B65D 51/2835 20130101; B67D 2210/0012 20130101; Y02W 30/807
20150501; Y02W 30/80 20150501 |
Class at
Publication: |
222/83 ;
222/129 |
International
Class: |
B67D 1/00 20060101
B67D001/00; B67D 7/74 20100101 B67D007/74 |
Claims
1. A dispenser for a bottle adapted to contain a consumable
beverage, the dispenser being adapted for a person to drink from
and being adapted to engage the bottle, the dispenser comprising: a
dispenser body adapted to hold a flavoring component, the dispenser
body having a first dispenser end, adapted for drinking therefrom,
and having a second dispenser end, adapted to be engaged with the
bottle; a recloseable cap positioned on the second dispenser end of
the dispenser body, the recloseable cap coupled to the dispenser
body by a living hinge; a plunger slidably disposed at least
partially within the dispenser body for movement from a first
plunger position to a second plunger position, in which the plunger
creates a passageway through the dispenser body, the passageway
being adapted to allow the flavoring component from the dispenser
body to mix with the consumable beverage in the bottle; and a cap
slidably positioned on the first dispenser end of the dispenser
body and defining a cap opening adapted to allow the person to
drink the consumable beverage therefrom, the cap being moveable
between a first cap position, in which the cap opening is proximate
to the first dispenser end of the dispenser body, and a second cap
position, in which the cap opening is spaced further from the first
dispenser end than when the cap is in the first cap position,
wherein when the plunger is in the second plunger position and the
cap is in the first cap position, the plunger end cooperates with
the cap to seal the cap opening so that the dispenser is adapted to
prevent the consumable beverage from leaving the bottle; wherein
the passageway is formed by the plunger moving the recloseable
cap.
2. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the panel has a beveled
edge.
3. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the dispenser body includes an
outwardly directed dispenser lip that forms a dispenser shoulder
adapted to be seated on a bottle surface defining a bottle
opening.
4. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the plunger end forms a button
that, while the plunger is in the first plunger position, is
adapted for the person to depress to allow the flavoring component
to mix with the consumable beverage.
5. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the dispenser has a
longitudinal axis and defines a chamber therein, the chamber having
at least first and second chamber sections, the first chamber
section including the first dispenser end, the first chamber
cross-section, as measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis,
being greater than the second chamber cross-section, as measured
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
6. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the first and second chamber
sections are generally cylindrical.
7. The dispenser of claim 5, wherein the plunger comprises at least
one gasket extending outwardly therefrom, the at least one gasket
forming a chamber seal between the plunger and an inner chamber
surface along the first chamber section when the plunger is in the
first plunger position, the chamber seal being adapted to prevent
the flavoring component from being dispensed through the cap, the
at least one gasket being spaced from the inner chamber surface
along the second chamber section when the plunger is in the second
position to form a chamber passageway, the chamber passageway being
adapted to allow the flavoring component and/or the consumable
beverage to flow toward the cap.
8. The dispenser of claim 7, wherein the plunger includes at least
one guide projection extending outwardly therefrom and slidably
abutting the inner chamber surface.
9. The dispenser of claim 8, wherein the chamber includes a chamber
shoulder adapted to abut the at least one guide projection to
prevent the plunger from being completely withdrawn from the
dispenser body.
10. The dispenser of claim 9, wherein the chamber shoulder is
formed at an interface between the second chamber section and a
third chamber section, the third chamber section having a third
chamber cross-section, as measured perpendicularly to the
longitudinal axis, that is greater than the second chamber
cross-section.
11. The dispenser of claim 1, wherein the first end of the
dispenser body is open, a cap inner surface substantially closing
the first dispenser end.
12. A dispenser for a bottle adapted to contain a consumable
beverage, the dispenser being adapted for a person to drink from
and being adapted to engage the bottle, the dispenser comprising: a
dispenser body adapted to hold a flavoring component, the dispenser
body having a first dispenser end, adapted for drinking therefrom,
and having a second dispenser end, adapted to be engaged with the
bottle; a recloseable cap positioned on the second dispenser end of
the dispenser body, the recloseable cap including: a panel; and a
protuberance adapted and configured to releasably secure the panel
in a closed position; a plunger slidably disposed at least
partially within the dispenser body for movement from a first
plunger position to a second plunger position, in which the plunger
creates a passageway through the dispenser body, the passageway
being adapted to allow the flavoring component from the dispenser
body to mix with the consumable beverage in the bottle; and a cap
slidably positioned on the first dispenser end of the dispenser
body and defining a cap opening adapted to allow the person to
drink the consumable beverage therefrom, the cap being moveable
between a first cap position, in which the cap opening is proximate
to the first dispenser end of the dispenser body, and a second cap
position, in which the cap opening is spaced further from the first
dispenser end than when the cap is in the first cap position,
wherein when the plunger is in the second plunger position and the
cap is in the first cap position, the plunger end cooperates with
the cap to seal the cap opening so that the dispenser is adapted to
prevent the consumable beverage from leaving the bottle; wherein
the passageway is formed by the plunger moving the panel from the
closed position to an open position.
13. The dispenser of claim 12, wherein the panel has a beveled
edge.
14. The dispenser of claim 12, wherein the dispenser body includes
an outwardly directed dispenser lip that forms a dispenser shoulder
adapted to be seated on a bottle surface defining a bottle
opening.
15. The dispenser of claim 12, wherein the plunger end forms a
button that, while the plunger is in the first plunger position, is
adapted for the person to depress to allow the flavoring component
to mix with the consumable beverage.
16. The dispenser of claim 12, wherein the dispenser has a
longitudinal axis and defines a chamber therein, the chamber having
at least first and second chamber sections, the first chamber
section including the first dispenser end, the first chamber
cross-section, as measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis,
being greater than the second chamber cross-section, as measured
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
17. The dispenser of claim 16, wherein the first and second chamber
sections are generally cylindrical.
18. The dispenser of claim 16, wherein the plunger comprises at
least one gasket extending outwardly therefrom, the at least one
gasket forming a chamber seal between the plunger and an inner
chamber surface along the first chamber section when the plunger is
in the first plunger position, the chamber seal being adapted to
prevent the flavoring component from being dispensed through the
cap, the at least one gasket being spaced from the inner chamber
surface along the second chamber section when the plunger is in the
second position to form a chamber passageway, the chamber
passageway being adapted to allow the flavoring component and/or
the consumable beverage to flow toward the cap.
19. The dispenser of claim 18, wherein the plunger includes at
least one guide projection extending outwardly therefrom and
slidably abutting the inner chamber surface.
20. The dispenser of claim 19, wherein the chamber includes a
chamber shoulder adapted to abut the at least one guide projection
to prevent the plunger from being completely withdrawn from the
dispenser body.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/224,711, filed Sep. 2, 2011, now U.S. Pat.
No. 8,499,971 issued Aug. 6, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/931,229 filed Oct. 31, 2007, now
U.S. Pat. No. 8,011,534 issued Sep. 6, 2011, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
11/019,488, filed Dec. 22, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,306,117 issued
Dec. 11, 2007, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/361,269, filed Feb. 10, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No.
6,959,839 issued Nov. 1, 2005; priority to each of the
above-identified patents is claimed and each of the above
identified patents is incorporated by reference herein as if fully
set forth in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention is directed generally to consumable
beverage dispensers for use with bottles and, more specifically, to
a consumable beverage dispenser capable of holding a flavoring
component for selective mixing with a consumable beverage.
[0003] Sports or drink bottles have significant advantages over
prior disposable cups with lids and even over conventional beverage
cans and bottles. A drinking bottle is typically constructed of
resilient, flexible plastic material which is more durable than
prior known drink containers and thus may be used during
recreational activities or while driving a vehicle. Drink bottles
having spouts or straws with capped ends provide additional
advantages for convenient use in various environments.
Unfortunately, such drink bottles are incapable of storing a
flavoring component separate from the main consumable beverage
until just prior to the initial consumption of the consumable
beverage.
[0004] It would be advantageous to provide a dispenser containing a
flavoring component capable of being dispensed just prior to
initial consumption; that preferably uses a plunger to release the
flavoring component; that preferably uses a plunger end to seal an
opening in the bottle's cap; and that is simple to use.
SUMMARY
[0005] One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a
dispenser for a bottle adapted to contain a consumable beverage.
The dispenser is adapted for a person to drink from and is adapted
to engage the bottle. The dispenser includes a dispenser body
adapted to hold a flavoring component. The dispenser body has a
first dispenser end, adapted for drinking therefrom, and has a
second dispenser end, adapted to be engaged with the bottle. A
plunger is slidably disposed at least partially within the
dispenser body for movement from a first plunger position to a
second plunger position, in which the plunger creates a passageway
through the dispenser body. The passageway is adapted to allow the
flavoring component from the dispenser body to mix with the
consumable beverage in the bottle. A cap is slidably positioned on
the first dispenser end of the dispenser body and defines a cap
opening adapted to allow the person to drink the consumable
beverage therefrom. The cap is moveable between a first cap
position, in which the cap opening is proximate to the first
dispenser end of the dispenser body, and a second cap position, in
which the cap opening is spaced further from the first dispenser
end than when the cap is in the first cap position. When the
plunger is in the second plunger position and the cap is in the
first cap position, the plunger end cooperates with the cap to seal
the cap opening so that the dispenser is adapted to prevent the
consumable beverage from leaving the bottle.
[0006] In a separate aspect, the present invention is directed to a
dispenser for a bottle adapted to contain a consumable beverage.
The dispenser is adapted for a person to drink from and is adapted
to engage the bottle. The dispenser includes a dispenser body
adapted to hold a flavoring component. The dispenser body has a
first dispenser end, suitable for drinking therefrom, and has a
second dispenser end, adapted to be engaged with the bottle. A cap
is slidably positioned on the first dispenser end of the dispenser
body and defines a cap opening adapted to allow the person to drink
the consumable beverage therefrom, the cap having an inner cap
surface. A removable member is disposed about the dispenser body
and is adapted to prevent the cap from sliding from a second cap
position, in which the inner cap surface is spaced from the first
dispenser end, to a first cap position, in which the inner cap
surface is at least in close proximity to the first dispenser end.
A plunger is slidably disposed at least partially within the
dispenser body for movement from a first plunger position, in which
the plunger generally extends between the inner cap surface and the
second dispenser end, to a second plunger position, in which the
plunger creates a passageway through the dispenser body. The
passageway is adapted to allow the flavoring component from the
chamber to mix with the consumable beverage in the bottle. When the
removable member is displaced from about the dispenser body, the
cap can be moved into the first cap position to drive the plunger
from the first plunger position to the second plunger position.
[0007] In a separate aspect, the present invention is directed to a
reusable dispenser for a bottle adapted to contain a consumable
beverage. The dispenser is adapted for a person to drink from and
being adapted to engage the bottle. The dispenser includes a
dispenser body adapted to hold a flavoring component. The dispenser
body having a first dispenser end, adapted for drinking therefrom,
and having a second dispenser end, adapted to be engaged with the
bottle. A plunger is slidably disposed at least partially within
the dispenser body for movement from a first plunger position to a
second plunger position, in which the plunger creates a passageway
through the dispenser body. The passageway is adapted to allow the
flavoring component from the chamber to mix with the consumable
beverage in the bottle. A cap is slidably positioned on the first
dispenser end of the dispenser body and defines a cap opening
adapted to allow the person to drink the consumable beverage
therefrom, the cap being moveable between a first cap position, in
which the cap opening is proximate to the first dispenser end of
the dispenser body, and a second cap position, in which the cap
opening is spaced further from the first dispenser end than when
the cap is in the first cap position. When the plunger is in the
second plunger position and the cap is in the first cap position,
the plunger end cooperates with the cap to seal the cap opening so
that the dispenser is adapted to prevent the consumable beverage
from leaving the bottle. The dispenser body is configured so that
the passageway, after being created by the plunger, can be closed
so that the dispenser is adapted to be reused.
[0008] In a separate aspect, the present invention is directed
toward a dispenser for a bottle that is adapted to contain a
consumable beverage. The dispenser is adapted for a person to drink
from and is adapted to engage the bottle. The dispenser includes a
dispenser body defining a chamber therein. The chamber is adapted
to hold a flavoring component. The dispenser body has a first
dispenser end, suitable for drinking therefrom, and has a second
dispenser end, adapted to be positioned within the bottle when the
dispenser is engaged with the bottle. The plunger is slidably
disposed at least partially within the dispenser body for movement
from a first plunger position, in which a plunger end extends
outwardly from the first dispenser end of the dispenser body, to a
second plunger position, in which the plunger penetrates a portion
of the dispenser body to create a passageway. The passageway is
adapted to allow the flavoring component from the chamber to mix
with the consumable beverage. A cap is slidably positioned on the
first dispenser end of the dispenser body and defines a cap opening
adapted to allow a person to drink the consumable beverage
therefrom. The cap is moveable between a first cap position, in
which the cap opening is proximate to the first dispenser end of
the dispenser body, and a second cap position, in which the cap
opening is spaced further from the first dispenser end than when
the cap is in the first cap position. When the plunger is in the
second plunger position and the cap is in the first cap position,
the plunger end cooperates with the cap to seal the cap opening so
that the dispenser is adapted to prevent the consumable beverage
from leaving the bottle.
[0009] In a separate aspect, the present invention is directed to a
dispenser for a bottle adapted to contain a consumable beverage.
The dispenser is adapted for a person to drink from and is adapted
to engage the bottle. The dispenser includes a dispenser body
defining a chamber therein. The chamber is adapted to hold a
flavoring component. The dispenser body has a first dispenser end,
suitable for drinking therefrom, and has a second dispenser end,
adapted to be positioned within the bottle when the dispenser is
engaged with the bottle. A cap is slidably positioned on the first
dispenser end of the dispenser body and defines a cap opening
adapted to allow the person to drink the consumable beverage
therefrom. The cap has an inner cap surface. A removable member is
disposed about the dispenser body and is adapted to prevent the cap
from sliding from a second cap position, in which the inner cap
surface is spaced from the first dispenser end, to a first cap
position, in which the inner cap surface is at least in close
proximity to the first dispenser end. A plunger is slidably
positioned at least partially within the dispenser body for
movement from a first plunger position, in which the plunger
generally extends between the inner cap surface and the second
dispenser end, to a second plunger position, in which the plunger
penetrates a portion of the dispenser body to create a passageway.
The passageway is adapted to allow the flavoring component from the
chamber to mix with the consumable beverage in the bottle. When the
removable member is displaced from about the dispenser body, the
cap can be moved into the first cap position to drive the plunger
from the first plunger position to the second plunger position.
[0010] In a separate aspect, the present invention is directed to a
dispenser for a bottle that is adapted to contain a consumable
beverage. The dispenser is adapted for a person to drink from and
is adapted to engage the bottle. The dispenser includes a dispenser
body defining a chamber therein. The chamber is adapted to hold a
flavoring component. The dispenser body has a first dispenser end,
suitable for drinking therefrom, and has a second dispenser end,
adapted to be positioned within the bottle when the dispenser is
engaged with the bottle. The dispenser body has a consumable
beverage passageway extending between the first dispenser end and a
portion of a dispenser outer surface adapted to be located within
the bottle when the dispenser is engaged with the bottle. A plunger
is at least partially slidably disposed within the dispenser body
such that when the dispenser is secured to the bottle, the
dispenser body drives the plunger to penetrate a portion of the
dispenser body to create a passageway, the passageway being adapted
to allow the flavoring component from the chamber to mix with the
consumable beverage in the bottle. Wherein the consumable beverage
passageway is adapted to allow the consumable beverage and/or the
flavoring component to pass through the dispenser to the first
dispenser end.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention,
will be better understood when read in conjunction with the
appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention,
there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently
preferred. It is understood, however, that the invention is not
limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In
the drawings:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a
first preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrating
the dispenser mounted on a bottle adapted to contain a consumable
beverage;
[0013] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the dispenser of FIG. 1
illustrating a tubular sleeve that is slidably positionable over
the dispenser to secure a dispenser lip to an upper edge of an
outer surface of the bottle that defines a bottle mouth
therein;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 1
as taken along the line 3-3 of FIG. 1 and illustrates a plunger in
a first plunger position with a plunger end extending outwardly
from the first dispenser end of the dispenser body;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 3
as taken along the line 4-4 of FIG. 3 and illustrates at least one
guide projection that extends outwardly from the plunger and
slidably abuts an inner chamber surface to maintain the proper
alignment of the plunger within the chamber;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 1,
similar to that of FIG. 3, and illustrates the plunger in a second
plunger position such that the plunger has penetrated a portion of
the dispenser body to allow the flavoring component to mix with the
consumable beverage and illustrates the cap in a first cap position
such that the plunger end cooperates with the cap to seal the cap
opening and to prevent the flow of consumable beverage or flavoring
component through the dispenser;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 1
similar to that of FIG. 3, illustrating the cap in the second cap
position for drinking therefrom;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a
second preferred embodiment of the present invention prior to
insertion in the bottle;
[0019] FIG. 8 is cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 7
mounted to the bottle and illustrates the tubular sleeve being
integrally formed with the dispenser body such that tubular sleeve
is disposed over and spaced from a portion of the dispenser body to
create a perimeter groove around the dispenser body that is adapted
to receive a portion of the bottle and that defines a bottle
opening;
[0020] FIG. 9 is cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 7,
similar to that of FIG. 8, and illustrates the plunger in the
second plunger position and the cap in the first cap position;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 7
with the plunger in the second plunger position and the cap in the
first cap position;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a
third preferred embodiment of the present invention secured to the
bottle;
[0023] FIG. 12 is an exploded view of the dispenser of FIG. 11;
[0024] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
11 as taken along the line 13-13 of FIG. 11 and illustrates a
removable member maintaining the cap in the second cap position
with the plunger in a first plunger position in which the plunger
generally extends between an inner cap surface and the second
dispenser end;
[0025] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
11, similar to that of FIG. 13, and illustrates the dispenser with
the removable member detached such that the cap can be moved into
the first cap position to drive the plunger into a second plunger
position in which the plunger penetrates the dispenser body to form
a passageway between the chamber and the interior of the
bottle;
[0026] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a
fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrating
the dispenser prior to being to secured to the bottle;
[0027] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
15 secured to the bottle and illustrates the cap in the first cap
position with the plunger in the second plunger position;
[0028] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a
fifth preferred embodiment of the present invention prior to being
secured to the bottle;
[0029] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
17 secured to the bottle and illustrates the plunger in a first
plunger position;
[0030] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
17, similar to that of FIG. 18 and illustrates the plunger after
the dispenser body has driven the plunger to penetrate a portion of
the dispenser body during the securing of the dispenser body to the
bottle;
[0031] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a
sixth preferred embodiment of the present invention prior to
securing the dispenser to the bottle;
[0032] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
20 and illustrates the dispenser just prior to the engagement of
the dispenser to the bottle;
[0033] FIG. 22 illustrates the dispenser of FIG. 20 with the
plunger in the second position after being driven by a portion of
the dispenser body during the securing the dispenser body to the
bottle;
[0034] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a
seventh preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrating
the dispenser mounted on the bottle which is adapted to contain a
consumable beverage;
[0035] FIG. 24 is an exploded view of the dispenser of FIG. 23
which is preferably configured to be reuseable; The tubular sleeve
may be slidably positionable over the dispenser to secure the
dispenser lip to an upper edge of an outer surface of the bottle
that defines a bottle mouth therein;
[0036] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
23 as taken along the line 25-25 of FIG. 23 and illustrates the
recloseable cap in the closed position on the bottom of the
dispenser with the plunger in a first plunger position;
[0037] FIG. 26 is a partially exploded view of the dispenser of
FIG. 23 showing the recloseable cap separate from the dispenser and
having a panel that is in an open position to allow the contents of
the dispenser to be released therefrom; The recloseable cap can be
integrally formed with the dispenser bottom or any other suitable
mechanism for making the dispenser reusable can be used without
departing from the scope of the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
25 as taken along the line 27-27 in FIG. 25 and illustrates the
panel in the closed position;
[0039] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 25
that shows the dispenser of FIG. 23 with the plunger in the second
plunger position with the panel abutted, dislodged, penetrated by
the plunger, or moved; The panel is in the open position which
allows the flavoring component of the dispenser to mix with the
consumable beverage; The cap is in the first cap position which
generally prevents drinking from the bottle;
[0040] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of FIG. 28
of the dispenser of FIG. 23 showing the cap in the second cap
position for drinking therefrom;
[0041] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
28 taken along the line 30-30 of FIG. 28 and illustrates the panel
in the open position;
[0042] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to an
eighth preferred embodiment of the present invention prior to
insertion in the bottle;
[0043] FIG. 32 is cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 31
mounted to the bottle and illustrates the dispenser having a
recloseable lid positioned on the bottom thereof to allow the
flavoring component to be dispensed; the lid can preferably be
reattached after the dispenser has been refilled after use;
[0044] FIG. 33 is cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 32,
similar to that of FIG. 28, and illustrates the plunger in the
second plunger position and the cap in the first cap position; The
recloseable lid, which forms part of the dispenser body, is in the
open position after penetration of the dispenser body by the
plunger;
[0045] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 33
with the lid in the open position;
[0046] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a
ninth preferred embodiment of the present invention secured to the
bottle; The dispenser is preferably inserted into the tubular
sleeve after the tubular sleeve has been attached to the bottle;
This allows the dispenser to be slid in and out of the bottle with
minimum manipulation to facilitate swapping dispensers during use
or to facilitate the selection of an individual dispenser prior to
consumption of the bottle contents;
[0047] FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
35 and illustrates the connection between the dispenser and a
portion of the tubular sleeve based on a preferred double lip that
extends around the dispenser; Alternatively, the connection can be
a twist lock, detent, snap fit, tongue and groove, friction fit, or
any other suitable connection without departing from the scope of
the present invention;
[0048] FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG.
35, similar to that of FIG. 36, and illustrates the dispenser with
the plunger in a second plunger position in which the plunger
penetrates the dispenser body to form a passageway between the
chamber and the interior of the bottle; The dispenser's recloseable
lid is illustrated in the open position;
[0049] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the dispenser with the
recloseable lid in the open position;
[0050] FIG. 39 illustrates a dispenser of FIG. 35 and a broken away
portion of the tubular sleeve; the dispenser has a post thereon for
engaging a groove along an inner surface of the portion of the
sleeve; The post and groove combine to form a twist lock
connection;
[0051] FIG. 40 illustrates the dispenser of FIG. 35 and a broken
away portion of the tubular sleeve; the dispenser has a post
thereon for engaging a generally spiral slot along an inner surface
of the portion of the sleeve; and
[0052] FIG. 41 is a partial cross-sectional view of the dispenser
engaged with the tubular sleeve; The inner portion of the tubular
sleeve tapers inwardly in a generally conical fashion to provide an
interference fit with the dispenser; The tubular sleeve preferably
includes a gasket along an upper part of the inner portion to
facilitate a fluid tight connection.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0053] Certain terminology is used in the following description for
convenience only and is not limiting. The words "right," "left,"
"top," and "bottom" designate directions in the drawings to which
reference is made. The words "inwardly" and "outwardly" refer to
directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center
of the dispenser and designated parts thereof. The term "flavoring
component", as used in the claims and in the corresponding portions
of the specification, is defined as meaning "a juice concentrate, a
drink mix, a drink powder, a vitamin mix, a protein powder, a
liquid containing caffeine, a flavoring element, a coloring
element, a dye, a food coloring, or the like." The words "a" and
"one" are defined as including one or more of the referenced item
unless specifically stated otherwise. This terminology includes the
words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words
of similar import.
[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1-41, wherein like numerals indicate like
elements throughout, nine preferred embodiments of a dispenser
according to the present invention are shown and generally
designated 30:1-30:9, respectively. Briefly stated, the dispenser
30:1-30:9 is adapted to contain a flavoring component 32 in a
chamber 34 within a dispenser body 40. The flavoring component 32
is preferably selectively dispensed into a consumable beverage 36
contained in a bottle 38 to which the dispenser 30:1-30:9 is
attached.
[0055] Many of the features of the dispenser 30:1-30:9 of the
present invention are similar and operate in a generally similar
fashion. For simplicity, the first preferred dispenser 30:1 will be
described and, thereafter, only the differences between the first
preferred dispenser 30:1 and the remaining preferred dispensers
30:2-30:9 will be discussed. Accordingly, it is understood that
those features discussed in connection with any one of the
embodiments of the dispensers 30:1-30:9 will operate generally the
same in the remaining embodiments unless otherwise described.
Additionally, it is understood from this disclosure that the
various features shown in the drawings and described in the
specification can be interchanged without departing from the scope
of the present invention.
[0056] It is preferred that the dispenser 30:1-30:9 is formed of a
sturdy, non-reactive, durable, lightweight material, suitable for
use with beverages, such as a suitable polymer. However, those of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that
any known material suitable for use with consumable beverages be
can used without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0057] Referring to FIGS. 1-6, one embodiment of the dispenser 30:1
of the present invention is adapted for a person to drink from and
is adapted to engage the bottle 38. The dispenser 30:1 includes the
dispenser body 40 that defines the chamber 34 therein. The chamber
34 is adapted to hold the flavoring component 32. The dispenser
body 40 is preferably formed in a cylindrical fashion. Referring
specifically to FIG. 3, the dispenser body 40 may have a
longitudinal axis 44. The chamber 34 preferably has at least first
and second chamber sections 46A, 46B. The first chamber section
includes a first dispenser end 42A.
[0058] The first chamber cross-section, as measured perpendicular
to the longitudinal axis 44, is preferably greater than a second
chamber cross-section, as measured perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis 44. That is, the first chamber section 46A is
preferably located at the top of the chamber 34 with a side that is
bounded by an inner surface 48 of a cap 50. The second chamber
section 46B is preferably located adjacent to the first chamber
section 42A. It is preferred that the first and second chamber
sections 46A, 46B are cylindrical. Referring to the lower portion
of the chamber 34, it is preferred that the chamber 34 include a
chamber shoulder 52 that is adapted to abut at least one guide
projection 54 (further described below) to prevent a plunger 56
(further described below) from being completely withdrawn from the
dispenser body 40.
[0059] The chamber shoulder 52 can be formed at an interface
between the second chamber section 46B and a third chamber section
46C. The third chamber section 46C preferably has a third chamber
cross-section, as measured perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis
44, that is greater than the second chamber cross-section.
[0060] As detailed above, the first dispenser end 42A is preferably
open. The first end 42A of the dispenser is substantially closed by
the cap 50 positioned on the first dispenser 42A. While a
particular shape has been described above for the chamber 34
contained in the dispenser body 40, those of ordinary skill in the
art will appreciate from this disclosure that the dimensions and
shape of the chamber 34 can be varied without departing from scope
of the present invention.
[0061] Referring to FIG. 6, the dispenser body has a first
dispenser end 42A suitable for drinking therefrom. The dispenser
has a second dispenser end 42B that is adapted to be positioned
within the bottle 38 when the dispenser 30:1 is engaged with the
bottle 38. While the second end 42B is generally shown as only
slightly protruding past the neck of the bottle 38, those of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that
the amount of penetration of the second dispenser end 42B into the
bottle 38 can vary without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0062] The dispenser body 40 preferably includes a penetrable
section 60 disposed on the second dispenser end 42B. As best shown
in FIG. 2, the dispenser body 40 also preferably includes an
outwardly directed dispenser lip 64 that forms a dispenser shoulder
66 that is adapted to be seated on a bottle surface 68 that defines
a bottle opening 70.
[0063] It is preferable that a tubular sleeve 72 is slidably
engagable over the dispenser 30:1 to secure the dispenser 30:1 at
least partially in the bottle opening 70. The tubular sleeve 72 is
preferably threadably engagable with the bottle 38 via the
engagement of at least one sleeve thread 76 with at least one
bottle thread 74. Referring to FIG. 7, alternatively, the tubular
sleeve 72 can be integrally formed with the dispenser body 40 such
that the tubular sleeve is disposed over and spaced from a portion
of the dispenser 40 to create a perimeter groove 78 around the
dispenser body 40 that is adapted to receive the portion of the
bottle surface 68 that defines the bottle opening 70.
[0064] Referring to FIGS. 3, 5, and 6, the plunger 56 is slidably
disposed at least partially within the dispenser body 40 for
movement from a first plunger position (shown in FIG. 3), in which
a plunger end 58 extends outwardly from the first dispenser end 42A
of the dispenser body 40, to a second a plunger position (shown in
FIGS. 5 and 6), in which the plunger 56 penetrates a portion 60 of
the dispenser body 40 to create a passageway 62. The passageway 62
is adapted to allow the flavoring component 32 from the chamber 34
to mix with the consumable beverage 36 in the bottle 38.
[0065] It is preferred that the plunger end 58 forms a button 80
that, while the plunger 56 is in the first plunger position, is
adapted for a person to depress (i.e., to move inwardly) to allow
the flavoring component 32 to mix with the consumable beverage 36.
The button 80 can have any shape depending upon the desired cap
opening 82 (that preferable correlation is further described
below).
[0066] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 5, the plunger 56 preferably
includes at least one gasket 84 extending outwardly therefrom. The
at least one gasket 84 preferably forms a chamber seal 86 (shown in
FIG. 3) between the plunger 56 and an inner chamber surface 48
along the first chamber section 46A when the plunger 56 is in the
first plunger position (as shown in FIG. 3). The chamber seal 86 is
adapted to prevent the flavoring component 32 from being dispensed
through the cap 50. This simplifies transportation and handling of
the dispenser 30:1 prior to use.
[0067] The at least one gasket 84 is preferably spaced from the
inner chamber surface along the second chamber section 46B when the
plunger 56 is in the second position (shown in FIGS. 5 and 6) to
form a chamber passageway 88. The chamber passageway 88 is adapted
to allow the flavoring component 32 and/or the consumable beverage
36 to flow through the chamber 34 toward the cap 50. The chamber
passageway 88 preferably extends generally about the perimeter of
the at least one gasket 84 due to the increased cross-sectional
area of the second chamber section 46B relative to the first
chamber section 46A. It is preferred that the plunger 56 include at
least one guide projection 54 that extends outwardly therefrom and
slidably abuts the inner chamber surface 48.
[0068] Referring specifically to FIG. 4, it is preferred that the
guide projection 54 comprise four fins 90 that are spaced generally
equidistantly about the plunger 56. Those of ordinary skill in the
art will appreciate that any guide projection 54 design can be used
provided that the flavoring component 32 and/or the consumable
beverage 36 can pass by the guide projection(s) 54. Depending upon
the interference fit between the guide projections 54 and the inner
chamber surface 48, the amount of force necessary to move the
plunger 56 from the first plunger position to the second plunger
position can be customized to customer taste.
[0069] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the cap 50 is slidably
positioned on the first dispenser end 42A of the dispenser body and
defines a cap opening 82 adapted to allow a person to drink the
consumable beverage 36 therefrom. It is preferable that the cap 50
is slidable upwardly and downwardly on the dispenser 40. The cap is
moveable between a first cap position (shown in FIG. 5), in which
the cap opening 82 is proximate to the first dispenser end 42A of
the dispenser body 40, and a second cap position (shown in FIG. 6)
in which the cap opening 82 is spaced further from the first
dispenser end 42A than when the cap 50 is in the first cap
position.
[0070] Referring specifically to FIG. 5, when the plunger 56 is in
the second plunger position and the cap 50 is in the first cap
position, the plunger end 58 cooperates with the cap 50 to seal the
cap opening 82 so that the dispenser 30:1 is adapted to prevent the
consumable beverage 36 from leaving the bottle 38. Accordingly, the
cap opening 82 can have any shape and it is preferable that the
button 80 formed by the plunger end 58 of the plunger 56 is
complimentarily shaped. Referring to FIGS. 7-10, the second
preferred embodiment of the dispenser 30:2 is similar in design and
operation to the first preferred dispenser 30:1, except for the
tubular sleeve 72 is integrally formed with the dispenser body
40.
[0071] Referring to FIGS. 11-14, a third preferred embodiment of
the dispenser 30:3 preferably includes a removable member 92 that
is disposed about the dispenser body 40 and is adapted to prevent
the cap 50 from sliding thereon. Referring specifically to FIG. 13,
it is preferable that the removable member 92 is disposed beneath a
bottom edge of the cap 50 and above an upper dispenser body
shoulder 94. The cap 50 is slidable from a second cap position
(shown in FIG. 13), in which the inner cap surface 48 is spaced
from the first dispenser end 42A, to a first cap position (as shown
in FIG. 14), in which the inner cap surface 48 is at least in close
proximity to the first dispenser end 42A. Those of ordinary skill
in the art will appreciate that the term "at least in close
proximity" means "preferably abutting contact therebetween or
within a reasonable tolerance, such as between approximately two
(2) and four (4) millimeters or the like."
[0072] The plunger 56 is slidably disposed at least partially
within the dispenser body for movement from a first plunger
position (shown in FIG. 13), in which the plunger extends generally
between the inner cap surface 48 and the second dispenser end 42B,
to a second plunger position (shown in FIG. 14), in which the
plunger 56 penetrates a portion 60 of the dispenser body 40 to
create a passageway 62. The cap 50 can be moved into the first cap
position to drive the plunger 56 from the first plunger position to
the second plunger position to selectively disperse the flavoring
component 32 into the bottle 38.
[0073] The fourth preferred dispenser 30:4 is substantially similar
to third preferred dispenser 30:3, except that the tubular sleeve
72 is integrally formed with the dispenser body 40. Those of
ordinary skill in art will appreciate from this disclosure that
while a threaded tubular sleeve 72 is disclosed in each of the
dispenser embodiments 30:1-30:6, that various methods of securing
any of the dispensers 30:1-30:6 to the bottle 38 can be used
without departing from the scope of the present invention. For
example, the dispensers 30:1-30:6 can be sonically welded,
integrally formed with a heat weld, hot wire welded, or adhesively
fixed to the bottle 38 without departing from the scope of the
present invention.
[0074] Referring to FIGS. 17-19, a fifth preferred embodiment of
the dispenser 30:5 of the present invention includes a dispenser
body having a consumable beverage passageway 96 extending between
the first dispenser body end 42A and a portion of a dispenser outer
surface 98 and is adapted to be located within the bottle 38 when
the dispenser 30:5 is engaged with the bottle 38. Referring to
FIGS. 20-22, it is preferred, but not necessary, that the chamber
34 not be in fluid communication with the first dispenser end 42A
except for by following a liquid path through the consumable
beverage 36 in the bottle and into the dispenser 40 via the portion
of the dispenser outer surface 98 that opens to the consumable
beverage passageway 96.
[0075] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the plunger 56 is preferably
disposed within the dispenser body 40 such that when the dispenser
30:5 is secured to bottle 38, the dispenser body 40 drives the
plunger 56 to penetrate a portion of the dispenser body 60 to
create a passageway 62 and thus, encouraging any flavoring
component 32 that is consumed by a person to flow through the
bottle 38 and back into the dispenser body 40 via the consumable
beverage passageway 96.
[0076] Referring specifically to FIGS. 18 and 21, the plunger 56 is
out of contact with the penetrable section 60 when the tubular
sleeve 72 is beginning to engage the bottle 38. As the tubular
sleeve 72 is threaded onto the bottle 38, the upper half of the
dispenser body 40 drives the plunger 56 downwardly until the
tubular sleeve 36 is engaged with the bottle 38 sufficiently to
force the plunger 56 downwardly through the penetrable section 60
of the dispenser body 40. Those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that the penetrable portion 60 of any of the dispensers
30:130:6 can be formed by a foil, a partially perforated polymer
section, or the like without departing from the scope of the
present invention.
[0077] Referring to FIGS. 1-6, one embodiment of the present
invention operates as follows. The second dispenser end 42B is
inserted into the bottle opening 70 such that the dispenser lip 64
abuts the bottle surface 68. Then, the tubular sleeve 72 is slid
over the top of the dispenser body 40 and threadably secured to the
bottle 38. Thus, the tubular sleeve 72 clamps the dispenser lip 64
between an upper, annular ring, portion of the tubular sleeve 72
and the bottle surface 68 to secure the dispenser 30:1 thereto.
Then, a user depresses button 80 to drive the plunger 56 downwardly
through the penetrable section 60 to create a passageway 62. Any
flavoring component 32 within the chamber 34 of the dispenser 30:1
is then allowed to pass through the passageway 62 and mix with the
consumable beverage 36. Referring specifically to FIG. 5, while the
plunger 56 is in the second plunger position and the cap 50 is in
the first cap position, the consumable beverage 36 and/or the
flavoring component 32 are preferably prevented from being ejected
from the bottle via the dispenser 30;1. To drink from the
consumable beverage bottle 38, the user pulls the cap 50 upwardly
into the second cap position as shown in FIG. 6.
[0078] Referring to FIGS. 23-30 a seventh preferred embodiment of
the dispenser 30:7 according to the present invention is shown. The
dispenser 30:7 is preferably configured to be reuseable. The bottom
of the dispenser may include a recloseable cap 100 with a panel 102
therein that is moveable between an open position (shown in FIGS.
28-30) and a closed position (shown in FIGS. 24, 25, and 27). The
tubular sleeve 72 may be slidably positionable over the dispenser
30:7 to secure the dispenser lip 64 to an upper edge 68 of the
bottle opening 70. The panel 102 is preferably connected to the
recloseable cap 100 via a living hinge. A section of the panel 102
preferably forms a bevel 122 that is configured to engage a
protuberance 120 on the recloseable cap 100 to allow the panel to
be secured in the closed position. While a preferred construction
for a reusable dispenser 30:7 is shown, those of ordinary skill in
the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any suitable
recloseable/resealable structure or mechanism can be used on the
lower end of the dispenser 30:7 without departing from the scope of
the present invention.
[0079] The recloseable cap 100 can be integrally formed with the
dispenser bottom or can be sonically welded thereto or secured
using any suitable method without departing from the scope of the
present invention. Furthermore, any other suitable mechanism for
making the dispenser 30:7 reusable can be used without departing
from the scope of the present invention.
[0080] FIGS. 31-34 illustrate an eighth preferred embodiment of the
dispenser 30:8. The dispenser users a recloseable lid 104 that is
connected via a strap 106. The lid 104 can form the lower end of
the dispenser body 40 until it is penetrated by the plunger 56.
FIG. 33 illustrates the recloseable lid 104 in the open position
after penetration of the dispenser body by the plunger 56.
[0081] FIGS. 35-41 illustrate a ninth preferred embodiment of the
dispenser 30:9. The dispenser is preferably inserted into the
tubular sleeve 72 after the tubular sleeve 72 has been attached to
the bottle 38. This allows the dispenser 30:9 to be slid in and out
of the bottle 38 with minimum manipulation to facilitate swapping
dispensers during use or to facilitate the selection of an
individual dispenser 30:9 prior to consumption of the bottle
contents. It further allows the dispenser to be a generally
cylindrical piece with a minimum of protruding components to
facilitate shipping and handling by children. Referring to FIGS. 36
and 37 the dispenser 30:9 is preferably inserted into a portion 108
of the tubular sleeve 72 that may extend into the opening of the
bottle. Referring to FIG. 36, the connection between the dispenser
30:9 and a portion 108 of the tubular sleeve 72 based on a
preferred double lip 64 that extends around the dispenser 30:9.
Alternatively, the connection can be a twist lock (shown in FIG.
39), detent, snap fit, tongue and groove (shown in FIG. 40),
friction fit (shown in FIG. 41), or any other suitable connection
without departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0082] FIG. 39 illustrates the dispenser 30:9 and a broken away
portion of the tubular sleeve 72. The dispenser 30:9 can have a
post 112 thereon for engaging a groove 110 along an inner surface
of the portion 108 of the sleeve 72. The post 112 and groove 110
preferably combine to form a twist lock connection. Referring to
FIG. 40, the dispenser 30:9 may use the post 112 for engaging a
generally spiral slot 114 along an inner surface of the portion 108
of the sleeve 72 to form a tongue and groove connection. Referring
to FIG. 41, the dispenser 30:9 may be engaged with the tubular
sleeve 72 via the inner portion 108. The inner portion 108 of the
tubular sleeve preferably tapers 118 inwardly in a generally
conical fashion to provide an interference fit with the dispenser.
The interference fit may be made more reliable by selecting
materials that have high frictional coefficient therebetween. The
tubular sleeve 72 preferably includes a gasket 116 along an upper
part of the inner portion 108 to facilitate a fluid tight
connection. While specific mechanisms for connection the dispenser
30:9 to the bottle have been disclosed, any suitable connection may
be used without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0083] While various shapes, configurations, chamber shapes,
dispenser shapes, plunger configurations and bottle shapes have
been described above and shown in the drawings for the various
embodiments of the dispenser of the present invention, those of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that
any combination of the above features, fins, dispenser lips, or the
like can be used, in any combination, without departing from the
scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is recognized by
those skilled in the art that changes may be made to the above
described embodiments of the invention without departing from the
inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this
invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed,
but is intended to cover all modifications which are within the
spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims
and/or as shown in the attached drawings.
* * * * *