U.S. patent application number 14/188101 was filed with the patent office on 2014-10-23 for beverage mixing system and process.
The applicant listed for this patent is Gudpod Holdings, LLC. Invention is credited to Brendan Duffy, Gian-Carlo Ochoa, Gary Van Deursen.
Application Number | 20140311351 14/188101 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49083228 |
Filed Date | 2014-10-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140311351 |
Kind Code |
A2 |
Ochoa; Gian-Carlo ; et
al. |
October 23, 2014 |
BEVERAGE MIXING SYSTEM AND PROCESS
Abstract
The present invention relates to a system and process for a
nutraceutical beverage mixing system. Provided is a customizable
supplement beverage system and method for personalizing and
operating the same to a particular user and optionally for
operative tracking. Proposed additionally is an operative system
for receiving and individually identifying a concentrate or
supplement combinations, for mixing the same prior to a use, and
for dispensing the same for use, and for tracking control factors
relating to the same.
Inventors: |
Ochoa; Gian-Carlo;
(Bronxville, NY) ; Duffy; Brendan; (Sandy Hook,
CT) ; Van Deursen; Gary; (Essex, CT) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Gudpod Holdings, LLC |
Bronxville |
NY |
US |
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Prior
Publication: |
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Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20140165846 A1 |
June 19, 2014 |
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|
Family ID: |
49083228 |
Appl. No.: |
14/188101 |
Filed: |
February 24, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
PCT/US2013/027982 |
Feb 27, 2013 |
|
|
|
14188101 |
|
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61666835 |
Jun 30, 2012 |
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61604410 |
Feb 28, 2012 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
99/283 ;
99/287 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01F 15/00311 20130101;
A23L 2/52 20130101; A23V 2002/00 20130101; B01F 2215/0032 20130101;
B01F 3/1271 20130101; B01F 7/00008 20130101; A47J 31/4492 20130101;
A47J 31/401 20130101; B01F 3/12 20130101; B01F 15/00318 20130101;
B01F 15/00376 20130101; G07F 13/065 20130101; A23L 33/10 20160801;
A47J 31/407 20130101; B01F 15/0206 20130101; B01F 15/00123
20130101; B01F 15/00389 20130101; B01F 15/00305 20130101; A23L
29/00 20160801 |
Class at
Publication: |
99/283 ;
99/287 |
International
Class: |
A47J 31/44 20060101
A47J031/44; A47J 31/40 20060101 A47J031/40 |
Claims
1-26. (canceled)
27. A beverage mixing system, comprising: a dispensing station unit
having a container receiving portion to support a bounded container
containing a potable liquid; a mixing system having a mixing arm to
engage a mixing element of a pod that houses a nutraceutical
composition in response to the pod being receivably retained by the
mixing system; and a controller unit to cause the mixing arm to
engage the mixing element of the pod and to urge the mixing element
into the bounded container to cause at least some of the
nutraceutical composition to be transferred from the pod into the
bounded container, the controller unit thereupon causing the mixing
element to agitate the nutraceutical composition and the potable
liquid together in the bounded container.
28. The system of claim 27, wherein the mixing system includes a
mixing head that is operable to move up and down, and wherein the
mixing arm is at least partially rotated simultaneously or
independently from upward or downward movement of the mixing
head.
29. The system of claim 27, wherein the mixing element includes a
paddle or a blade or a fan and an upwardly projecting stem that
interfaces with the mixing arm.
30. The system of claim 29, wherein the mixing system includes a
mixing head that lowers the mixing arm until at least a lower end
of the mixing arm engages the stem.
31. The system of claim 30, wherein the mixing head raises the
mixing arm following agitation of the nutraceutical composition to
allow removal of the pod from the mixing system.
32. The system of claim 30, wherein the controller unit controls
the mixing system to at least partially rotate the mixing arm to
cause the mixing element to at least partially rotate.
33. The system of claim 32, wherein the mixing arm is configured to
securely engage the stem such that the mixing element is removable
with the pod following agitation of the nutraceutical
composition.
34. The system of claim 33, the mixing arm further comprising a
mechanism that securely engages the stem.
35. The system of claim 29, wherein the mixing arm engages a
portion of the upwardly projecting stem inside the pod.
36. The system of claim 27, wherein the mixing element is a
plurality of radially projecting blades or fans and an upwardly
projecting stem that physically interfaces with the mixing arm.
37. The system of claim 27, wherein the pod is receivably retained
at a position above an opening to the bounded container, the pod
forming a second bounded container holding the nutraceutical
composition until the mixing element is urged into the bounded
container.
38. The system of claim 27, wherein the mixing arm is securely
engaged with the mixing element so that responsive to the mixing
arm being retracted from the bounded container, the pod and the
mixing element are also thereby retracted simultaneously.
39. The system of claim 27, wherein the nutraceutical composition
is a dry nutraceutical composition.
40. The system of claim 27, wherein the nutraceutical composition
includes a pharmaceutical composition.
41. The system of claim 27, wherein the agitation of the
nutraceutical composition includes any one or more of: varying or
oscillating a depth of engagement between the mixing arm and the
bounded container, or varying a duration of the agitation, or
reversing a direction of rotation of the mixing element, or
oscillating the mixing element, or moving the mixing arm around
within the bounded container, or varying a frequency of the
agitation, or varying a speed of the agitation.
42. The system of claim 41, wherein the oscillating includes a
clockwise rotation of the mixing element followed or preceded by a
counter-clockwise rotation of the mixing element.
43. The system of claim 41, wherein the varying or oscillating the
depth of engagement includes moving the mixing arm up then down or
down then up.
44. The system of claim 27, further comprising a reader operable to
scan a code associated with the pod, the controller unit receiving
identification or use information associated with the code scanned
by the reader.
45. The system of claim 27, wherein: the mixing system includes a
mixing head that is operable to move up and down, the mixing
element includes a plurality of radially projecting paddles or
blades or fans and an upwardly projecting stem that securely
engages the mixing arm so that responsive to the mixing arm being
retracted from the bounded container, the pod and the mixing
element are also thereby retracted simultaneously, the mixing arm
is operable to at least partially rotate simultaneously or
independently from movement of the mixing head, the pod is
receivably retained at a position above an opening to the bounded
container, the pod forming a second bounded container holding the
nutraceutical composition until the mixing element is urged into
the bounded container, and the agitation of the nutraceutical
composition includes any one or more of varying or oscillating a
depth of engagement between the mixing arm and the bounded
container, or varying a duration of the agitation, or reversing a
direction of rotation of the mixing element, or oscillating the
mixing element, or moving the mixing arm around within the bounded
container, or varying a frequency of the agitation, or varying a
speed of the agitation.
46. The system of claim 45, wherein the mixing head is controlled
to lower the mixing arm until at least a lower end of the mixing
arm engages the stem, the mixing head is controlled to raise the
mixing arm following agitation of the nutraceutical composition to
allow removal of the pod from the mixing system, and the controller
unit controls the mixing system to rotate the mixing arm to cause
the mixing element to rotate.
47. The system of claim 27, the mixing system further including a
movable back head that is operable to move up and down to cause the
mixing element of the pod to be submerged a distance within the
potable liquid in the bounded container.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional of International
Application No. PCT/US2013/027982, filed Feb. 27, 2013, which
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/666,835,
entitled "A Beverage Mixing System and Process," filed on Jun. 30,
2012, and of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/604,410, entitled
"A Trainable Nutraceutical Beverage System and Method of Operating
the Same," filed on Feb. 28, 2012, all of which are incorporated by
reference herein in their entireties.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to a trainable nutraceutical
beverage mixing system and method for operating the same. More
particularly, the present invention relates to a customizable
supplement beverage system, and method for personalizing the same
to a particular user and for tracking of the same. The invention
also relates to multi-compartment pods or containers for use with
the trainable beverage mixing system.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Industrial applications of trainable computer systems are
known in the art, and typically include user-preference
memorization. Also known are customized nutritional food and
beverage dispensing systems, such as the one in U.S. Pat. No.
7,762,181 (Boland et al.), the entire contents of which are
incorporated by reference.
[0006] As discussed in detail in Boland '181 a highly complex
ingredient processor blends, cooks and prepares in an individual
dose system requiring continuous update and complex operational
steps. Unfortunately, this reference processor blends, cooks and
prepares in an individual dose system requiring continuous update
and complex operational steps. Unfortunately, this reference fails
to identify the trainable operation desired of the present
invention, system and method. Also detriment to '181 is a
substantially high cost requirement for a dispensing system which
prohibits individual-use systems.
[0007] Accordingly, there is a need for an improved trainable
nutraceutical beverage mixing system and method of operating the
same. Further, there is also a need to improve process efficiencies
in tracking, identifying, dispensing and monitoring individually
customizable supplement programs matched with a user's needs. There
is also a need for portable beverage mixing system including
multi-component containers for use therewith.
ASPECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] In response, the present invention provides a trainable
nutraceutical beverage system. Provided is a customizable
supplement beverage system, and method for personalizing and
operating the same to a particular user and for operative tracking
Proposed additionally is an operative system for receiving and
individually identifying a concentrate or supplement combinations,
for mixing the same prior to a use, and for dispensing the same for
use, and for tracking control factors relating to the same. Also
proposed is a personalized supplement program that is beverage
based for user convenience.
[0009] Also proposed are various portable mixing systems with
safety controls according to the preferred embodiment of the
present invention with the system. Preferably, the systems comprise
a housing body having a pod or container receiving portion with a
slip resistant bottom surface. Alternatively, bottom surface may be
a type of key-in surface to lock or otherwise secure the pod or
container in place during operation. The preferred pods or
containers for use with the invention will be discussed in greater
detail below. Optionally, the mixing system may have safety
controls to alert the user to a particular speed or frequency of
the mixing based upon the type of nutraceutical being used or the
size or amount being used. A user access code, fingerprint scan,
retina scan or other known type of safety control mechanisms that
are difficult to bypass, including software safety control, may be
employed with the system, especially for the consumption of
quantity-sensitive materials (i.e., Iron, etc.) to prevent
accidental overdose. The mixing system further comprises a movable
mixing head comprising a back head movably connected to a front
mixing head which includes a stirrer or mixer.
[0010] During operation, after the pod or container is positioned
securely on the surface, the mixing head is lowered such that the
mixer or stirrer is engaged with an upper component of the pod or
container. The user then selects the appropriate control for the
desired frequency or speed of the mixing. Optionally, the front
mixing head, which is connected to the back head via one or more
movable arms such that the mixing arm moves about within the pod or
container. Similarly, the mixing head may also optionally partially
rotate (e.g., approximately 45%, 60%, 75%, etc.) again to move the
mixing arm around within container or pod. Optionally, the mixing
or agitation may additionally involve varying the depth of the
engagement between the mixing paddle and the beverage, varying the
duration of the mixing or agitation, reversing and/or oscillating
the direction of the mixing (i.e., clockwise, counterclockwise,
clockwise, etc.), and/or oscillating the depth of the engagement
between the mixing paddle and the beverage (i.e., up, down, up,
down, etc.).
[0011] Preferably, internal (not shown) to the mixing system is an
internal process controller unit (including suitable memory and
processing units) optionally linked with an external communication
control system. As will be understood by those of skill in the
system operational arts, during any use, system may be able to
track individual uses, dispensements, particular mixing
proportions, total supplement delivery and other operations.
Additionally, in an optional embodiment, the communication control
system may be able to communicate externally to process control
system and data tables and with the delivery supply system, thereby
permitting comprehensive benefit, use, and adaptation tracking for
a user's health benefit. Additionally, the system may be able to
re-order, and operate commercial transactions on behalf of a user
based upon designated user preferences.
[0012] Also proposed are various embodiments for two compartment
mixing pods or containers and some of their components that may be
employed with the various mixing systems discussed above. For
example, a first embodiment of a pod or container for use with the
mixing systems previously described, illustrates a two part pod, a
nutritional supplement part and a housing part for containing
filtered water, with a mixing paddle having radially projecting
blades or fans and a upwardly projecting stem for interfacing with
the disclosed mixing systems. Preferably, an upper part of the pod
has a sealing cap having a sealing membrane or protective label
there on. Optionally, a protective label may contain a 2D or 3D
barcode thereon for the mixing system to read, store and/or
transmit information about the product being used. Also optionally,
a lid or cap is secured onto an upper portion of the housing part
in a tamper resistant manner such that if the seal is broken the
average user would notice.
[0013] Preferably, the pod or portion pack is made substantially of
recyclable materials. Also, the multiple parts of the pod or pack
are preferably embodied as an assembly all of which are molded of
the same material (e.g., polyethylene, etc.) which can be disposed
of and recycled as an assembly. This is advantageous because it
simplifies the waste stream through eliminating the identification
and separation of unlike materials.
[0014] During operation, once the pod or container is positioned
securely into the mixing system, a mixing head will lower the
mixing arm or stirrer down onto the upper portion or protective
label of the pod or container. The mixing system will continue to
move mixing arm downward until the lower end of the mixing arm
connects or otherwise engages with the upper end of a stem of the
paddle such that when the mixing arm spins, the paddle will rotate
at the same speed and/or frequency. The mixing arm continues to
apply downward pressure on the stem until a lower tip of the paddle
punctures the sealing membrane which had been maintaining the
nutritional supplement or vitamin away from the water. Once the
sealing membrane is punctured the nutritional supplement or vitamin
spills into the water and the mixing arm continues to apply
downward pressure on the stem until the paddle is sufficiently
submerged to a distance within the water to adequately and
completely mix the water and nutritional supplement as described
above with respect to any of the mixing systems disclosed herein.
Once sufficiently mixed, the mixing arm rises out from within the
container so that the container may be removed from the mixing
system. Optionally, the mixing arm and/or stem may comprise a
mechanism or may be configured in such a way that they become
securely engaged and that when the mixing arm is removed from
container, it removes the paddle as well. Optionally, the paddle
may remain within the container and be disposed of along with the
container once all of the liquid mixture is gone.
[0015] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become apparent from the following
description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in
which like reference numerals designate the same elements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] A further understanding of the present invention can be
obtained by reference to a preferred embodiment set forth in the
illustrations of the accompanying drawings. Although the
illustrated preferred embodiment is merely exemplary of methods,
structures and compositions for carrying out the present invention,
both the organization and method of the invention, in general,
together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be
more easily understood by reference to the drawings and the
following description. The drawings are not intended to limit the
scope of this invention, which is set forth with particularity in
the claims as appended or as subsequently amended, but merely to
clarify and exemplify the invention.
[0017] For a more complete understanding of the present invention,
reference is now made to the following drawings in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a descriptive illustration of one alternative
embodiment of the proposed system;
[0019] FIG. 2 is an illustrative flow chart of one alternative
method according to one embodiment of the proposed invention;
[0020] FIG. 3A is a front plan view of the portable mixing system
with safety controls according to the preferred embodiment of the
present invention with the system in the raised or open
position;
[0021] FIG. 3B is a top plan view of the mixing system shown in
FIG. 3A;
[0022] FIG. 3C is a side view of the mixing system shown in FIG.
3A;
[0023] FIG. 4A is a front plan view of the portable mixing system
shown in FIG. 3A with the system in the lowered or closed
position;
[0024] FIG. 4B is a side view of the mixing system shown in FIG.
4A;
[0025] FIG. 5A is a front plan view of the portable mixing system
with safety controls according to an alternate embodiment of the
present invention;
[0026] FIG. 5B is a top plan view of the mixing system shown in
FIG. 5A;
[0027] FIG. 5C is a side view of the mixing system shown in FIG.
5A;
[0028] FIG. 6A is a front plan view of the portable mixing system
with safety controls according to another alternate embodiment of
the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 6B is a side view of the mixing system shown in FIG.
6A;
[0030] FIG. 7A is a front plan view of the portable mixing system
with safety controls according to another alternate embodiment of
the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 7B is a side view of the mixing system shown in FIG.
7A;
[0032] FIG. 8A is a front plan view of the portable mixing system
with safety controls according to another alternate embodiment of
the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 8B is a side view of the mixing system shown in FIG.
8A;
[0034] FIG. 9A is a closed front plan view of the preferred
embodiment for a two part pod with a mixing paddle therein for use
with the mixing system according to the invention;
[0035] FIG. 9B is an exposed cross-sectional view of the two part
pod shown in FIG. 9A further showing the mixing paddle;
[0036] FIG. 9C is an exposed cross-sectional view of the two part
pod shown in FIG. 9A further showing the mixing paddle;
[0037] FIG. 9D is a top plan view of the cap or lid for use with
the two part pod shown in FIGS. 9A-C;
[0038] FIG. 10 is an exposed cross-sectional view of an alternative
embodiment for a two part pod for use with the mixing system
according to the invention;
[0039] FIG. 11A is a descriptive illustration of phase one of a
bi-pod filtration process used with the system according to one
aspect of the invention;
[0040] FIG. 11B is a descriptive illustration of phase two of a
bi-pod filtration process used with the system according to one
aspect of the invention;
[0041] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of an alternative
embodiment for a two part spin pod for use with the mixing system
in accordance with the invention;
[0042] FIG. 13A is a perspective view of a first embodiment for a
stir pod spinning mechanism in the closed position for use in
mixing the contents of the spin pod during operation of the mixing
system;
[0043] FIG. 13B is a perspective view of the stir pod spinning
mechanism shown in FIG. 13A but shown in the open position;
[0044] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a second embodiment for a
stir pod spinning mechanism in the closed position having three
blades for use in mixing the contents of the spin pod during
operation of the mixing system;
[0045] FIG. 14B is a perspective view of the stir pod spinning
mechanism shown in FIG. 14A but shown in the open position;
[0046] FIG. 14C is a perspective view of the stir pod spinning
mechanism shown in FIG. 14A but shown in the open position and
having only two stirring blades;
[0047] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a third embodiment for a
stir pod spinning mechanism for use in mixing the contents of the
spin pod during operation of the mixing system;
[0048] FIG. 15B is a perspective view of the stir pod spinning
mechanism shown in FIG. 15A further indicating the flow of liquid
during spinning in order to mix the contents of the spin pod;
[0049] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of one embodiment of how the
stir pods may be packaged for proper sealing and safety;
[0050] FIG. 17A is a front plan view of yet another alternative
embodiment for a two part pod for use with the mixing system in
accordance with the invention;
[0051] FIG. 17B is an exposed cross-sectional view of the two part
pod shown in FIG. 17A further showing the membrane piercing
component upon compression of the two part pod;
[0052] FIG. 17C is a perspective view of one embodiment of the
membrane piercing component for use with the invention;
[0053] FIG. 17D is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
the two part pod shown in FIGS. 17A-B;
[0054] FIG. 18A is a front plan view of yet another alternative
embodiment for a two part pod for use with the mixing system in
accordance with the invention;
[0055] FIG. 18B is an exposed cross-sectional view of the two part
pod shown in FIG. 18A further showing multiple membrane piercing
component upon compression of the two part pod;
[0056] FIG. 18C is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of
the two part pod shown in FIGS. 18A-B;
[0057] FIG. 19 is a front plan view of still another alternative
embodiment for a two part pod or compartment for use with the
mixing system in accordance with the invention; and
[0058] Appendix A provides an illustrative summary of operative
concepts of the proposed system and method, but the proposed system
and method is not limited to the Appendix.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0059] As required, a detailed illustrative embodiment of the
present invention is disclosed herein. However, techniques,
systems, compositions and operating structures in accordance with
the present invention may be embodied in a wide variety of sizes,
shapes, forms and modes, some of which may be quite different from
those in the disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific
structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely
representative, yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford the
best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis
for the claims herein which define the scope of the present
invention.
[0060] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the
invention. Wherever possible, same or similar reference numerals
are used in the drawings and the description to refer to the same
or like parts or steps. The drawings are in simplified form and are
not to precise scale. The word `couple` and similar terms do not
necessarily denote direct and immediate connections, but also
include connections through intermediate elements or devices. For
purposes of convenience and clarity only, directional (up/down,
etc.) or motional (forward/back, etc.) terms may be used with
respect to the drawings. These and similar directional terms should
not be construed to limit the scope in any manner. It will also be
understood that other embodiments may be utilized without departing
from the scope of the present invention, and that the detailed
description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and that
elements may be differently positioned, or otherwise noted as in
the appended claims without requirements of the written description
being required thereto.
[0061] Various operations may be described as multiple discrete
operations in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in
understanding embodiments of the present invention; however, the
order of description should not be construed to imply that these
operations are order dependent.
[0062] Referring now to FIG. 1, the proposed system 100 includes an
operable process control system and operable data tables 102 that
is in communication with a delivery and supply system 101 for
management of system 100 as will be discussed. As will be
understood from the exemplary illustration an optional data
communication loop is provided by illustrated arrows, but this will
be understood by those of skill in the art to be operable over any
known telecommunication process for receipt, manipulation, and
delivery of information, and for tracking physical delivery of
later described items.
[0063] Within system 100 there is provided a user-unit operable for
receipt of a concentrate or supplement container 1 and a supply of
a dilutant (e.g., water, coffee, tea, milk, carbonated beverages,
any hot or cold fluid, or any other suitable fluid) 2, with
operable power input access 3 (at rear of unit) and a control
system 4 containing suitable controls for achieving the goals of
the proposed system (including but not limited to on/off, volume
control, temp, control, mixing proportions, optional weight-stage
for dispensing tracking etc.). Both container 1 and dilutant 2 may
be in multi-use, continuous, or single-use sizes.
[0064] Additionally noted s a dispensing station unit 5 for
supporting a volume to receive a mixture of dilutant 1 and
concentrate 2 under mixing conditions controlled by control system
4. An individual tracking identification or bar code 6 is provided
on each concentrate/supplement container 1 and there is positioned
an associated reader 7 for receiving identification/use information
from code 6 during an installation and use of container 1. Internal
(not shown) to the location unit is an internal process controller
unit 8 (including suitable memory and processing units) linked with
an optional external communication control system 9. As will be
understood by those of skill in the system operational arts, during
any use, system 100 will be able to track individual uses,
dispensments, particular mixing proportions, total supplement
delivery and other operations. Additionally, in an optional
embodiment, the end unit and communication control system 9 will be
able to communicate externally to process control system and data
tables 102 and with delivery supply system 101, thereby permitting
comprehensive benefit, use, and adaptation tracking for a user's
health benefit. Additionally, system 100 will be able to optionally
re-order, and operate commercial transactions on behalf of a user
based upon designated user preferences.
[0065] Regarding process control system and data tables 102, it
will be understood that these include a comprehensive process
control units to receive, track, organize, and select from
informational data bases involving comprehensive user
identifications, complete medical and query information and user
goals, a complete selection with all parameters of dilutants and
also all supplements, minerals, pharmaceuticals etc. that may be
selected based upon user-parameters.
[0066] Referring now to FIG. 2 wherein an operative and optional
method of the proposed system is illustrated. In a first step 201
an initial determination is provided of user preferences and needs
and includes (in each step noted hereafter) links with process and
data control unit and system 102 containing operative communication
links 102A. Such determination step may include questionnaires
(multiple) following family history, health concerns, health
history, desired outcomes (weight loss, muscle gain, medical
treatment support (e.g., diabetes, wound healing, cancer treatment
support, etc. without limitations thereto).
[0067] Following initial questionnaire and detail information for
each individualized users an initial recommended user-unique
supplement determination is made in a step 202 linked with a unique
identification step 203 and via process and data control system
102, a supplement concentrate product is created, packaged, and
shipped in a combined step 204 to a user for installation in a
device 205. Device system 100 recognizes the unique identification
and conducts local controls and monitoring as discussed elsewhere
through continuous use steps 206 for a designated period of time
(user determined, medically determined etc.) until a desire to
conduct a secondary determination step 207 is reached.
[0068] Instep 207 a link with the unique identification is made via
path 210 to process control 102 and the historic data is stored in
data tables therewith. Additional steps in a rebalancing step 208
are conducted that would include modifying the initial supplement
determination step 202 and crafting a replacement or secondary
supplement via a path 209 shown also linked with process control
102. In this matter, during a rebalancing step a new individually
identifiable supplement is packaged, shipped, delivered, linked
with the system and dispensed therefrom.
[0069] It will be recognized that this process of initial
determination and later rebalancing may be repeated without limit
so as to provide a continual trainable process unique to each
user's needs.
[0070] Further, it will be understood that the entire contents of
the incorporated-by-reference U.S. Pat. No. 7,762,181 is available
to access for enabling content upon question by one of skill in the
art. Additionally, it will be understood that this application will
incorporate the currently known highest skill in the communication,
data management, shipping, user-identification and
product-identification technologies in the art. Thus, for a
non-limiting example where data is *sent" or `recorded` this will
be understood to incorporate all known ways (wired, wireless,
encrypted, open, random-access memory, bubble-memory, cloud-based
etc.). For example, the current process control system and data
tables could be cloud-based, or located on a proprietary enterprise
type system with server modules. Finally, it will be understood
that the full health, medical, vitamin, pharmaceutical, and
nutrition data available and is used to guide supplement or
concentrate and dilutant determination.
[0071] It will be understood that the phrase dilutant supply or
dilutant may be any fluid material that is not the nutraceutical
concentration, thereby allowing a dilution of the concentration
during a use dispensment. The dilutant may be any suitable fluid
for human consumption, and by way of non-limiting example the
dilutant may be water or another combination of components (e.g.,
coffee, tea, milk, pharmaceutical combinations etc., without
limitation).
[0072] It will be understood that the phrase nutraceutical,
indicates a portmanteau of the words "nutrition" and
"pharmaceutical", and as used herein is a food or food product that
reportedly provides health and medical benefits, including the
prevention and treatment of disease, and that this food or food
product may be of any kind, but is preferably in the form of a
fluid concentrate intended for combination with water prior to
ingestion by an end user. Nothing herein will limit the
interpretation to requiring a pharmaceutical product. It will also
be understood that nutraceutical may additionally include those
compounds, vitamins, flavorings, minerals, drugs, or pharmaceutical
compositions (without limit to any) that are believed to have a
physiological benefit or provide protection against chronic
disease. With recent developments in cellular-level nutraceutical
agents the proposed use will be understood as non-limiting and is
to be broadly interpreted to include any complementary and
alternative therapies now known or later developed.
[0073] Turning next to FIGS. 3A-C and 4A-4B, shown are the portable
mixing system with safety controls according to the preferred
embodiment of the present invention with the system in the raised
or open position (FIGS. 3A-C) and in the lowered or closed position
(FIGS. 4A-B). Preferably, the system comprises a housing body 318
having a pod or container receiving portion 312 with a slip
resistant bottom surface 310. Alternatively, bottom surface 310 may
be a type of key-in surface to lock or otherwise secure the pod or
container 316 in place during operation. The preferred pods or
containers 316 for use with the invention will be discussed in
greater detail below. Optionally, the mixing system 300 may have
safety controls 314 to alert the user to a particular speed or
frequency of the mixing based upon the type of nutraceutical being
used or the size or amount being used. Mixing system 300 further
comprises movable mixing head 320 comprising back head 302 movably
connected to front mixing head 304 which includes stirrer or mixer
306.
[0074] During operation, after pod or container 316 is positioned
securely on surface 310, mixing head 320 is lowered (see FIGS.
4A-B) such that mixer or stirrer 306 is inserted into the contents
of the pod or container 316. The user then selects the appropriate
control 314 for the desired frequency or speed of the mixing.
Optionally, front mixing head, which is connected to back head 302
via movable arms 308 such that mixing arm 306 moves about within
pod or container 316. Similarly, the mixing head 320 may also
optionally partially rotate (e.g., approximately 45% or 60%) again
to move mixing arm 306 around within container or pod 316.
[0075] Preferably, internal (not shown) to the mixing system 300 is
an internal process controller unit (including suitable memory and
processing units) optionally linked with an external communication
control system. As will be understood by those of skill in the
system operational arts, during any use, system 300 may be able to
track individual uses, dispensements, particular mixing
proportions, total supplement delivery and other operations.
Additionally, in an optional embodiment, the communication control
system may be able to communicate externally to process control
system and data tables and with delivery supply system, thereby
permitting comprehensive benefit, use, and adaptation tracking for
a user's health benefit. Additionally, system 300 may be able to
re-order, and operate commercial transactions on behalf of a user
based upon designated user preferences.
[0076] Referring next to FIGS. 5A-C, shown is the portable mixing
system with safety controls according to an alternate embodiment of
the present invention. Preferably, the system comprises a housing
body 418 having a pod or container receiving portion 412 with a
slip resistant bottom surface 410. Alternatively, bottom surface
410 may be a type of key-in surface to lock or otherwise secure the
pod or container in place during operation. The preferred pods or
containers for use with the invention will be discussed in greater
detail below. Optionally, the mixing system 400 may have power
control switch 422 and safety controls 414 (e.g., one for mom, one
for dad, and one for child) to identify for or alert the user to a
particular speed or frequency of the mixing based upon the type of
nutraceutical or other health product being used or the size or
amount being used. Optionally, a user access code, fingerprint
scan, retina scan or other known type of safety control mechanisms
that are difficult to bypass, including software safety control,
may be employed with the system, especially for the consumption of
quantity-sensitive materials (i.e., Iron, etc.) to prevent
accidental overdose. Mixing system 400 further comprises movable
mixing head 420 movably connected within housing 418 and is
connected on its bottom surface to stirrer or mixing arm 406.
[0077] During operation, after a pod or container is positioned
securely on surface 410, mixing head 420 is lowered such that
mixing arm or stirrer 406 is inserted into the contents of the pod
or container. The user then selects the appropriate control 414 for
the desired frequency or speed of the mixing. As will be discussed
further below, the mixing arm 406 may optionally have fans or
blades which extend radially from mixing arm 406 to aid in the
mixing process. Optionally, the mixing head 420 may also move up
and down as well as partially rotate within housing 418 (e.g.,
approximately 45% or 60%) again to move mixing arm 406 around
within the container or pod.
[0078] As discussed above, internal (not shown) to the mixing
system 400 is preferably an internal process controller unit
(including suitable memory and processing units) optionally linked
with an external communication control system. In addition, a
barcode reader or scanner 404 may be included to read and transmit
information from the product being used to the internal process
controller unit. As will be understood by those of skill in the
system operational arts, during any use, system 400 may be able to
track individual uses, dispensements, particular mixing
proportions, total supplement delivery and other operations.
Additionally, in an optional embodiment, the communication control
system may be able to communicate externally to process control
system and data tables and with the delivery supply system, thereby
permitting comprehensive benefit, use, and adaptation tracking for
a user's health benefit. Additionally, system 400 may be able to
re-order, and operate commercial transactions on behalf of a user
based upon designated user preferences.
[0079] Turning next to FIGS. 6A-B, shown is the portable mixing
system 500 with safety controls according to yet another alternate
embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, the system
comprises a housing body 518 having a pod or container receiving
portion 512 with a slip resistant bottom surface 510.
Alternatively, bottom surface 510 may be a type of key-in surface
to lock or otherwise secure the pod or container in place during
operation. The preferred pods or containers for use with the
invention will be discussed in greater detail below. Optionally,
the mixing system 500 may have a power control switch and safety
controls 514 (e.g., one for mom, one for dad, and one for child) to
identify for or alert the user to a particular speed or frequency
of the mixing based upon the type of nutraceutical or other health
product being used or the size or amount being used. Alternatively,
an LED or other touch based electronic screen 504 may be employed
to provide all the control menus and options for the user of the
system. Mixing system 500 further comprises mixing head 520
connected to housing 518 directly above container receiving portion
512 and is connected to stirrer or mixing arm 506.
[0080] During operation, after a pod or container is positioned
securely on surface 510, mixing head 520 lowers mixing arm or
stirrer 506 into the contents of the pod or container. The user
then selects the appropriate control 514 (or using other control
pad 504) for the desired frequency or speed of the mixing. As will
be discussed further below, the mixing arm 506 may optionally have
fans or blades which extend radially from mixing arm 506 to aid in
the mixing process. Optionally, the mixing head 520 may also move
up and down as well as partially rotate within housing 518 (e.g.,
approximately 45% or 60%) again to move mixing arm 506 around
within the container or pod.
[0081] As discussed above with the other embodiments, internal (not
shown) to the mixing system 500 is preferably an internal process
controller unit (including suitable memory and processing units)
optionally linked with an external communication control system. In
addition, a barcode reader or scanner 508 may be included to read
and transmit information from the product being used to the
internal process controller unit. As will be understood by those of
skill in the system operational arts, during any use, system 500
may be able to track individual uses, dispensements, particular
mixing proportions, total supplement delivery and other operations.
Additionally, in an optional embodiment, the communication control
system may be able to communicate externally to process control
system and data tables and with delivery supply system, thereby
permitting comprehensive benefit, use, and adaptation tracking for
a user's health benefit. Additionally, system 500 may be able to
re-order, and operate commercial transactions on behalf of a user
based upon designated user preferences.
[0082] Turning next to FIGS. 7A-B, shown is the portable mixing
system 600 with safety controls according to still yet another
alternate embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, the
system comprises a housing body 618 having a pod or container
receiving portion 612 with a slip resistant bottom surface 610.
Alternatively, bottom surface 610 may be a type of key-in surface
to lock or otherwise secure the pod or container in place during
operation. The preferred pods or containers for use with the
invention will be discussed in greater detail below. Optionally,
the mixing system 600 may have a power control switch 622 and
safety controls 614 (e.g., one for mom, one for dad, and one for
child) to identify for or alert the user to a particular speed or
frequency of the mixing based upon the type of nutraceutical or
other health product being used or the size or amount being used.
Alternatively, an LED or other touch based electronic screen 604
may be employed to provide all the control menus and options for
the user of the system. Mixing system 600 further comprises mixing
head 620, in this embodiment a ball-shaped head, connected to
housing 618 directly above container receiving portion 612 and is
connected to stirrer or mixing arm 606.
[0083] Again, during operation, after a pod or container is
positioned securely on surface 610, mixing head 620 lowers mixing
arm or stirrer 606 into the contents of the pod or container. The
user then selects the appropriate control 614 (or using other
control pad 604) for the desired frequency or speed of the mixing.
Mixing system 600 may optionally employ a locking mechanism or
child safety lock to prevent a child from accidentally selecting an
adult size or speed. As will be discussed further below, the mixing
arm 606 may optionally have fans or blades which extend radially
from mixing arm 606 to aid in the mixing process. Optionally, the
mixing head 620 may also move up and down as well as partially
rotate within housing 618 (e.g., approximately 45% or 60%) again to
move mixing arm 606 around within the container or pod.
[0084] As discussed above with the other embodiments, internal (not
shown) to the mixing system 600 is preferably an internal process
controller unit (including suitable memory and processing units)
optionally linked with an external communication control system. In
addition, a barcode reader or scanner 508 may be included to read
and transmit information from the product being used to the
internal process controller unit. As will be understood by those of
skill in the system operational arts, during any use, system 600
may be able to track individual uses, dispensements, particular
mixing proportions, total supplement delivery and other operations.
Additionally, in an optional embodiment, the communication control
system may be able to communicate externally to process control
system and data tables and with delivery supply system, thereby
permitting comprehensive benefit, use, and adaptation tracking for
a user's health benefit. Additionally, system 600 may be able to
re-order, and operate commercial transactions on behalf of a user
based upon designated user preferences.
[0085] Referring now to FIGS. 8A-B, shown is the portable mixing
system 700 with safety controls according to still another
alternate embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, the
system comprises a housing body 718 having a pod or container
receiving portion 712 with a slip resistant bottom surface 710.
Alternatively, bottom surface 710 may be a type of key-in surface
to lock or otherwise secure the pod or container in place during
operation. The preferred pods or containers for use with the
invention will be discussed in greater detail below. Optionally,
the mixing system 700 may have a power control switches 722 and
safety controls 714 (e.g., one for mom, one for dad, and one for
child) to identify for or alert the user to a particular speed or
frequency of the mixing based upon the type of nutraceutical or
other health product being used or the size or amount being used.
Alternatively, an LED or other touch based electronic screen 704
may be employed to provide all the control menus and options for
the user of the system. Mixing system 700 further comprises a
mixing head (not seen) within the upper portion of housing 718
connected to directly above container receiving portion 712 and
which is connected to or integral with stirrer or mixing arm 706
(also not seen).
[0086] During operation, after a pod or container is positioned
securely on surface 710, mixing head lowers mixing arm or stirrer
706 into the contents of the pod or container. The user then
selects the appropriate control 714 (or using other control pad
704) for the desired frequency or speed of the mixing. Mixing
system 700 may optionally employ a locking mechanism or child
safety lock to prevent a child from accidentally selecting an adult
size or speed. As will be discussed further below, the mixing arm
706 may optionally have fans or blades which extend radially from
mixing arm 706 to aid in the mixing process. Optionally, the mixing
head may also move up and down as well as partially rotate within
housing 718 (e.g., approximately 45%, 60%, 75%, etc.) again to move
mixing arm 706 around within the container or pod.
[0087] As discussed above with the other embodiments, internal (not
shown) to the mixing system 700 is preferably an internal process
controller unit (including suitable memory and processing units)
optionally linked with an external communication control system. In
addition, a barcode reader or scanner 708 may be included to read
and transmit information from the product being used to the
internal process controller unit. As will be understood by those of
skill in the system operational arts, during any use, system 700
may be able to track individual uses, dispensements, particular
mixing proportions, total supplement delivery and other operations.
Additionally, in an optional embodiment, the communication control
system may be able to communicate externally to process control
system and data tables and with delivery supply system, thereby
permitting comprehensive benefit, use, and adaptation tracking for
a user's health benefit. Additionally, system 700 may be able to
re-order, and operate commercial transactions on behalf of a user
based upon designated user preferences.
[0088] Turning our attention now to FIGS. 9 through 19, shown are
various embodiment for pods or containers and some of their
components that may be employed with the various mixing systems
discussed above with respect to FIGS. 3 through 8. Referring first
to FIGS. 9A-9D, show is a first embodiment of a pod or container
800 for use with the mixing systems previously described,
illustrating a two part pod 800 (802, 804), a nutritional
supplement part 810 and a housing part 804 for containing filtered
water 814, with a mixing paddle 806 having radially projecting
blades or fans and a upwardly projecting stem 808 for interfacing
with the disclosed mixing systems. The nutritional supplement or
vitamin supplement contained within nutritional supplement part 810
for any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be in the form of
powder, liquid, dissolvable capsules or tablets, microcapsules, or
other known form.
[0089] Preferably, upper part 810 of pod 800 has a sealing cap 802
having a sealing membrane or protective label 816 there on.
Optionally, protective label 816 contains a 2D or 3D barcode
thereon as seen in FIG. 9D for the mixing system to read, store
and/or transmit information about the product being used. Also
optionally, lid or cap 802 is secured onto an upper portion of
housing part 804 in a tamper resistant manner such that if the seal
is broken the average user would notice. Any of the known tamper
resistant mechanisms for bottles or containers may be employed.
[0090] During operation, once pod or container 800 is positioned
securely into the mixing system, a mixing head lowers will lower
the mixing arm or stirrer down onto the upper portion or protective
label 816 of pod or container 800. The mixing system will continue
to move mixing arm downward until the lower end of the mixing arm
connects or otherwise engages with the upper end of stem 808 of
paddle 806 such that when mixing arm spins, paddle 806 will rotate
at the same speed and/or frequency. Mixing arm continues to apply
downward pressure on stem 808 until a lower tip 807 of paddle 806
punctures sealing membrane 812 which had been maintaining
nutritional supplement or vitamin 810 away from water 814. Once
sealing membrane 812 is punctured nutritional supplement or vitamin
810 spills into water 814 and mixing arm continue to apply downward
pressure on stem 808 until paddle 806 is sufficiently submerged to
a distance within water 814 to adequately and completely mix the
water and nutritional supplement as described above with respect to
any of the mixing systems disclosed herein. Once sufficiently
mixed, the mixing arm rises out from within container 800 so that
container 800 may be removed from the mixing system. Optionally,
mixing arm (see any of FIGS. 3 through 8) and/or stem 808 may
comprise a mechanism or may be configured in such a way that they
become securely engaged and that when the mixing arm is removed
from container 800, it removes paddle 806 as well. Optionally,
paddle may remain with container and be disposed of along with
container once all the liquid mixture is gone.
[0091] Turning next to FIG. 10, shown is an exposed cross-sectional
view of an alternative embodiment for a two part pod or container
820 for use with the mixing systems in accordance with the
invention. In this embodiment, two part pod or container 820
comprises outer container 828 housing liquid (e.g., 3 or 4 ounces
of water) and inner container or baggie 826 housing the nutritional
supplement blend or vitamins 836. Inner container 826 is preferably
heat-sealed on its upper end to the upper end of outer container
828. Outer container 828 may preferably be a blow molded
polyurethane (PE) bottle or any other suitable container material
for foods. An injection molded PE cap 832 is preferably affixed on
the outer side of upper end of outer container 828 and includes an
injection molded lance 830 through it top surface such that lance
830 has a lowere bladed end within baggie 826 and an upper end
extending outwardly through cap 832. Adjacent the outer top side of
cap 832 is preferably positioned a compression spring 822 which is
surrounded by a film 824 heat sealed to cap and covering spring
822. Compression spring 822 is configured such that it maintains
lance 830 in position until a downward force is applied during
use.
[0092] As previously discussed, during operation, once pod or
container 820 is positioned securely into the mixing system, a
mixing head will lower the mixing arm or stirrer down onto the
upper portion directly above spring 22 pod or container 820. The
mixing system will continue to move its mixing arm downward until
the lower end of the mixing arm connects or otherwise engages with
the upper end of lance 830. The mixing arm continues to apply
downward pressure on upper end of lance 830 until a lower tip of
lance 830 punctures the lower end of baggie 826. Once broken,
nutritional supplement or vitamin 836 spills into water 834 and
mixing arm continue to apply downward pressure on lance 830 until
sufficiently submerged to a distance within water 834 to adequately
and completely mix the water and nutritional supplement as
described above with respect to any of the mixing systems disclosed
herein. Once sufficiently mixed, the mixing arm rises out from
within container 820 so that container 820 may be removed from the
mixing system. Optionally, mixing arm (see any of FIGS. 3 through
8) and/or lance 830 may comprise a mechanism or may be configured
in such a way that they become securely engaged and that when the
mixing arm is removed from container 820, it removes lance 830 as
well. Optionally, lance 830 may remain with container and be
disposed of along with container once all the liquid mixture is
gone.
[0093] Referring next to FIGS. 11A-B, shown are descriptive
illustration of phase one and phase two of a bi-pod filtration
process used with the system according to one aspect of the
invention.
[0094] Looking now at FIG. 12, shown is an exploded perspective
view of another alternative embodiment for a two part spin pod for
use with the mixing system in accordance with the invention. As
shown, two part pod 840 comprises housing or container 848 for hold
liquid, and stir pod 845 comprising upper shaft 842 (preferably of
a hex shape or some other shape such that secure interface may be
made with the lower end of a mixing arm), side portions 844 and
mixing paddle 846. During operation, once pod or container 840 is
positioned securely into the mixing system, a mixing head will
lower the mixing arm or stirrer down onto the upper portion
directly above and engages upper shaft 842 without applying too
much pressure. The mixing system will then begin rotation of the
mixing arm thereby rotating stir pod 845.
[0095] Depicted in FIGS. 13 through 15 are alternative embodiments
for the stir pod used in conjunction with the spin pod 840 shown in
FIG. 12. For example, FIGS. 13A-B shows stir pod 850 in its closed
(FIG. 13A) and its open (FIG. 13B) positions. During use, the
centrifugal force from rotation of stir pod 850 from engaging the
mixing arm of one of the above described mixing systems generates
sufficient centrifugal force to open blades 852 thereby spilling
the nutritional supplement blend therefrom and into the liquid in
the container below. Blades 852 are then used to mix the water and
nutritional supplement. Similarly, FIGS. 14A-C shows stir pods 854,
860 (stir pod 860 only having two blades) in closed (FIG. 14A) and
open (FIG. 14B-C) positions. During use, pressure applied to tabs
856 during rotation of stir pods 854, 860 open blades 858, 862
thereby spilling the nutritional supplement blend therefrom and
into the liquid in the container below. Blades 858, 862 are then
used to mix the water and nutritional supplement. Looking at FIGS.
15A-B shown is another alternate embodiment for a stir pod for use
with the invention. That is, stir pod 864 comprises veins or
inwardly opening blades 866 such that with rotation thereof water
flows into the stir pod 864 and out through an opening 868 on a
bottom end of stir pod 864. During use, the centrifugal force from
rotation of stir pod 884 from engaging the mixing arm of one of the
above described mixing systems generates sufficient force to open
blades 866 inwardly or allow water to break through a seal of some
kind to mix with the nutritional supplement within stir pod 864 and
flow out through its bottom thereby spilling the combined
water-nutritional supplement blend from the stir pod 864. Briefly,
FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of how any of
the spinning pods may be packaged for proper sealing and safe
handling.
[0096] As an alternative embodiment to the portable electronic
mixing systems disclosed above, shown in FIG. 17A-C, 18A-C and 19
describe various embodiments for a portable and disposable two part
pod mixing system in accordance with the invention.
[0097] Referring first to FIGS. 17A-D, shown is a first embodiment
of a pod or container 900. As illustrated, mixing container 900
preferably comprises a blow molded (P.P. or PET) housing 904, which
is heat sealed on its lower end 906 with a PP or foil membrane to a
blow molded PP lower compressible container 910. Preferably,
housing 904 contains liquid (i.e., approximately 3 ounces of water)
while lower collapsible container 910 contains the desired
nutritional supplement. On its upper end, housing 904 is removably
closed with a cap, such as the cap for an ordinary water bottle or
soda bottle. Also optionally, lid or cap 902 is secured onto an
upper portion of housing part 904 in a tamper resistant manner such
that if the seal is broken the average user would notice. Any of
the known tamper resistant mechanisms for bottles or containers may
be employed. Of course, a larger lid configuration of container
having a large lid such as container 901 may be used.
[0098] Also, within lower collapsible container 910 is positioned,
preferably affixed to the bottom surface thereof, a foil or
membrane piercing divider 914. Upon shaking or vigorous up and down
motion of the container 900, piercing divider 914 punctures (912)
foil or membrane 908 thereby allowing the nutritional supplement in
lower container 910 to mix with the water in housing 904 upon
continued shaking Accordingly, while it is preferred that piercing
divider 914 be configured as shown, i.e., in the shape of a
pyramid, any shape divider which has a sharp enough apex would
suffice.
[0099] Turning to FIGS. 18A-B, shown is a second embodiment of a
two compartment mixing pod or container 9200. As illustrated,
mixing container 920 here preferably comprises a blow molded (P.P.
or PET) housing 904, which is heat sealed on its lower end with a
PP or foil membrane to a blow molded PP lower compressible
container 930. Preferably, housing 924 contains liquid (i.e.,
approximately 3 ounces of water) while lower collapsible container
930 contains the desired nutritional supplement. On its upper end,
housing 924 is removably closed with a tamper resistant heat sealed
pull off lid 922, such as the pull off lid for a container of
yogurt.
[0100] Also, within lower collapsible container 930 is positioned,
preferably affixed to the bottom surface thereof, a foil or
membrane piercing divider 934. Upon shaking or vigorous up and down
motion of the container 920, piercing divider 934 punctures the
foil or membrane thereby allowing the nutritional supplement in
lower container 930 to mix with the water in housing 924 upon
continued shaking Accordingly, while it is preferred that piercing
divider 914 be configured as shown, i.e., in the shape of a
pyramid, any shape divider which has a sharp enough apex would
suffice. Moreover, while two piercing dividers are shown, other
numbers of dividers may be used with the invention.
[0101] As seen in FIG. 18C, yet another alternate embodiment of the
two part mixing pod is shown. Here, pod 920 comprises on its lower
end an expandable lower region 926 which on its lower end is heat
sealed to lower collapsible compartment 928. In this embodiment,
upon shaking or vigorous up and down motion of the container 920, a
piercing divider, much like divider 934 seen in FIG. 18B punctures
the foil or membrane thereby allowing the nutritional supplement in
lower container 928 to mix with the water in housing 924 upon
continued shaking Preferably, upon puncture of the membrane, lower
compartment 928 compresses or collapses while at the same time or
close to the same time expanding region 926 of pod 920 expands to
allow for extra space with housing 924 upon entry of the
nutritional supplement.
[0102] Similar to the embodiment just described with respect to
FIG. 18C, yet another alternate embodiment of the two part mixing
pod is shown in FIG. 19, which is similar to the two compartment
pods shown in FIGS. 17A-B but with the added expandable region 946.
Here, pod 940 comprises on its lower end an expandable lower region
946 which on its lower end is heat sealed 938 to lower collapsible
compartment 948. In this embodiment, upon shaking or vigorous up
and down motion of the container 940, a piercing divider, much like
divider 934 seen in FIG. 18B, punctures the foil or membrane
thereby allowing the nutritional supplement in lower container 948
to mix with the water in housing 944 upon continued shaking.
Preferably, upon puncture of the membrane, lower compartment 948
compresses or collapses while at the same time or close to the same
time expanding region 946 of pod 940 expands to allow for extra
space within housing 944 for entry of the nutritional supplement.
Alternatively, pod 940 may be held by a machine at 950. The machine
would compress lower compartment 948, then shaking pod 940 such
that expanding region 946 expands.
[0103] In the claims, means or step-plus-function clauses are
intended to cover the structures described or suggested herein as
performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents
but also equivalent structures. Thus, for example, although a nail,
a screw, and a bolt may not be structural equivalents in that a
nail relies on friction between a wooden part and a cylindrical
surface, a screw's helical surface positively engages the wooden
part, and a bolt's head and nut compress opposite sides of a wooden
part, in the environment of fastening wooden parts, a nail, a
screw, and a bolt may be readily understood by those skilled in the
art as equivalent structures.
[0104] Having described at least one of the preferred embodiments
of the present invention with reference to the accompanying
drawings, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the
invention is not limited to those precise embodiments, and that
various modifications and variations can be made in the presently
disclosed system without departing from the scope or spirit of the
invention. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure cover
modifications and variations of this disclosure provided they come
within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The
scope of the invention, therefore, shall be defined solely by the
following claims. It should be appreciated that the present
invention is capable of being embodied in other forms without
departing from its essential characteristics.
* * * * *