U.S. patent application number 13/974217 was filed with the patent office on 2015-02-26 for dual-purpose aseptic container.
The applicant listed for this patent is Ed Vaes. Invention is credited to Ed Vaes.
Application Number | 20150056339 13/974217 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52480603 |
Filed Date | 2015-02-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150056339 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vaes; Ed |
February 26, 2015 |
DUAL-PURPOSE ASEPTIC CONTAINER
Abstract
A consumable-product container includes an aseptically sealed
body defining an interior volume, an amount of fluid disposed
within the interior volume, the amount of fluid having a liquid
state and a frozen state, a straw receiving area on the body, the
straw receiving area being of a material that is penetrable by a
flexible plastic straw, and a removable member that, when removed
from the body, creates an opening in the body sized to permit the
fluid to escape the interior volume in the frozen state.
Inventors: |
Vaes; Ed; (Stoney Creek,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Vaes; Ed |
Stoney Creek |
|
CA |
|
|
Family ID: |
52480603 |
Appl. No.: |
13/974217 |
Filed: |
August 23, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
426/115 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 77/32 20130101;
B65D 77/245 20130101; A47G 19/2222 20130101; A47G 21/186 20130101;
B65D 77/28 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
426/115 |
International
Class: |
A47G 19/22 20060101
A47G019/22; A47G 21/18 20060101 A47G021/18 |
Claims
1. A consumable-product container comprising: a straw; an
aseptically sealed flexible body defining an interior volume; an
amount of fluid disposed within the interior volume, the amount of
fluid having a liquid state and a frozen state; a first selectively
openable aperture at a first end of the body, the first selectively
openable aperture: openable by penetrating a portion of the first
end of the body with the straw; and sized to permit the fluid to
escape the interior volume in the liquid state but not in the
frozen state; and a second selectively openable aperture at a
second end of the body, the second selectively openable aperture
being openable by a removable member that, when pulled away from
the body, creates an opening in the body sized to permit the fluid
to escape the interior volume in the frozen state.
2. The consumable-product container according to claim 1, wherein:
the second end of the body is removable to open the second
selectively openable aperture.
3. The consumable-product container according to claim 1, wherein:
a first portion of the second end is separable from a second
portion of the second end of the body to expose the second
selectively openable aperture.
4. The consumable-product container according to claim 3, wherein:
said first portion of the second end is a lid.
5. The consumable-product container according to claim 1, wherein:
a removable member is integral with the body.
6. The consumable-product container according to claim 1, wherein:
the removable member is a tear-line.
7. The consumable-product container according to claim 1, wherein:
the straw is plastically deformable.
8. The consumable-product container according to claim 1, wherein
the aseptically sealed flexible body comprises: a traditional
children's single-serve juice box.
9. A consumable-product container comprising: an aseptically sealed
body defining an interior volume; an amount of fluid disposed
within the interior volume, the amount of fluid having a liquid
state and a frozen state; a straw receiving area on the body, the
straw receiving area being of a material that is penetrable by a
flexible plastic straw; and a removable member that, when pulled
away from the body, creates an opening in the body sized to permit
the fluid to escape the interior volume in the frozen state.
10. The consumable-product container according to claim 9, wherein:
the removable member is a strip of material along the body and
formed to separate from the body when pulled.
11. The consumable-product container according to claim 9, wherein:
the straw receiving area is of a material that forms a partial
watertight seal around the straw when penetrated by the straw.
12. The consumable-product container according to claim 9, wherein:
the removable member is integral with the body.
13. The consumable-product container according to claim 9, wherein:
the removable member is a first section of the body that separates
from a second section of the body to expose the opening.
14. A consumable-product container comprising: a straw; an
aseptically sealed body defining an interior volume and further
comprising: a first end with a liquid removal opening, the liquid
removal opening forming at least a partial watertight seal around
the straw; a second end opposite the first end, the second end
having a frozen content removal opening sized to permit contents of
the body having a volume of at least 50% of the interior volume of
the body to be removed from the body in a frozen state; and a
selectively removable member operable to expose the frozen content
removal opening when activated by a user.
15. The consumable-product container according to claim 14, further
comprising: a lid selectively couplable to the body.
16. The consumable-product container according to claim 14,
wherein: the selectively removable member is operable to separate a
first portion of the second end of the body from a second portion
of the second end of the body to expose the frozen content removal
opening.
17. The consumable-product container according to claim 16, wherein
the selectively removable member is a tear-line.
18. The consumable-product container according to claim 14, wherein
the aseptically sealed flexible body comprises: a traditional
children's single-serve juice box.
19. The consumable-product container according to claim 14,
wherein: The selectively removable member is integral with the
body.
20. The consumable-product container according to claim 14,
wherein: the selectively removable member is a first section of the
body that separates from a second section of the body to expose the
frozen content removal opening.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of aseptic
containers, and more particularly to a container that can extract a
liquid from a first opening and frozen contents from a second
opening.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] A "juice box" is a small container used to carry and consume
drinks (most often juice). They are most popular with parents, who
enjoy the ability to quickly give their children a single serving
of juice. The shape of the product makes them easy for kids and
adults to hold and use.
[0003] Juice boxes were originally designed in a specific fashion,
a style that proved successful as it has remained, mostly,
unchanged since the 1980s. Manufacturers chose a box shape because
they foresaw this shape as being the most convenient and easily
handled. Juice boxes typically come with a covered hole and an
attached straw which makes it easier for children to drink and
results in less of a mess. However, there are some juice boxes
available for purchase equipped with sides that are penetrable by
the straw anywhere or a pull tab.
[0004] They are frequently made of paperboard with an aluminum foil
lining, but variations exist. Paperboard is used to shape the
product and give the box an extra source of strength, an outer
layer of Polyethylene forms a liquid-tight seal and is the layer
used to print the information and graphics on the packaging, and an
inner layer of aluminum is used to keep light and oxygen out (as
well preventing the juice from becoming spoiled without having to
use extra preservatives). One issue with current juice box
packaging is it is designed for the juice to be consumed in its
liquid form only. If the contents were frozen, one would have to
wait for them to thaw or would have to use a tool to destroy the
box to access the contents.
[0005] An "ice pop" or "popsicle" is a water-based frozen snack. It
is made by freezing flavored liquid, such as fruit juice, or
soda-pop around a stick. Once the liquid freezes solid, the stick
can be a handle to hold the treat. In 1905 the first recorded
"ice-pop" was created by Frank Epperson of San Francisco, who left
a glass of "soda pop water and flavored powder" outside on his back
porch with a wooden mixing stick extending therefrom. Today, the
annual sales are of ice-pops exceed two billion dollars.
[0006] One issue with current ice-pop packaging is it is that it is
designed for the ice-pop to be consumed in its solid frozen form
only. Many consumers, however, would like to have the option to
consume the ice-pop, which is usually made of juice, in a liquid
state from the same packaging. Thawed ice-pops become very messy
and it is usually impossible to set the ice-pop container down
without the thawed contents spilling out.
[0007] The opposite is also true. Consumers would like the option
of freezing juice to create an ice-pop and be able to consume it in
a frozen form. Consumers are forced to choose between purchasing an
ice-pop to consume frozen contents or a juice box to consume liquid
contents. Alternatively, the consumer can buy both and waste
storage space.
[0008] Therefore, a need exists to overcome the problems with the
prior art as discussed above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The invention provides a dual-purpose disposable aseptic
container that overcomes the fore-mentioned disadvantages of the
single-purpose ice-pop and single-purpose juice container packaging
known in the art.
[0010] With the foregoing and other objects in view, there is
provided, under the invention, a consumable-product container that
includes a plastically deformable straw, an aseptically sealed
flexible body defining an interior volume, and an amount of fluid
disposed within the interior volume. The fluid, for example, fruit
juice, has a liquid state and a frozen state. A first selectively
openable aperture is at a first end of the body, the first
selectively openable aperture being openable by penetrating a
portion of the first end of the body with the plastically
deformable straw. The first selectively openable aperture is sized
to permit the fluid to escape the interior volume in a liquid state
but is too small to allow it to escape in a frozen state. A second
selectively openable aperture is at a second end of the body and is
large enough to permit the fluid to escape the interior volume in
its frozen state.
[0011] In accordance with a feature of the present invention, the
second end of the body is removable to open the second selectively
openable aperture.
[0012] In accordance with another further feature of the present
invention, the removable member is a tear-line located at the
second end of the body and, when pulled, it causes a first portion
of the second end of the body to separate from a second portion of
the second end of the body, thereby exposing the second selectively
openable aperture.
[0013] In accordance with one more feature of the present
invention, the aseptically sealed flexible body is a traditional
children's single-serve juice box.
[0014] In accordance with a further embodiment, the present
invention provides a consumable-product container that includes an
aseptically sealed body defining an interior volume and an amount
of fluid disposed within the interior volume. The fluid has a
liquid state and a frozen state. The body features a straw
receiving area formed with a material soft enough to be penetrated
by a flexible plastic straw and not requiring any other tools. When
penetrated, the straw receiving area forms at least a partially
watertight seal around the straw. A removable member is provided
that, when removed from the body, creates an opening in the body
sized to permit the fluid to escape the interior volume in the
frozen state.
[0015] In accordance with a feature of the present invention, the
removable member is a strip of material along the body and formed
to separate from the body when pulled.
[0016] In accordance with another feature of the present invention,
the removable member is integral with the body.
[0017] In accordance with one more feature of the present
invention, the removable member is created by forming lines of
weakness on either side thereof, so that when the removable member
is pulled, the body tears along the lines of weakness, which allows
the strip to separate from the body.
[0018] In accordance with yet another feature of the present
invention, the removable member is a first section of the body that
separates from a second section of the body to expose the
opening.
[0019] The present invention also provides a consumable-product
container that includes a straw and an aseptically sealed body
defining an interior volume. The body includes a first end with a
liquid removal opening, the liquid removal opening forming at least
a partial watertight seal around the straw, a second end opposite
the first end, the second end having a frozen content removal
opening sized to permit contents of the body having a volume of at
least 50% of the interior volume of the body to be removed from the
body in a frozen state, and a selectively removable member operable
to expose the frozen content removal opening when activated by a
user.
[0020] Although the invention is illustrated and described as
embodied in a dual-purpose disposable aseptic container, it is not
intended to be limited to the details shown because various
modifications and structural changes may be made without departing
from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of
equivalents of the claims. Known elements of exemplary embodiments
of the invention will not be described or will be omitted so as not
to obscure the details of the invention.
[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all terms of art, notations and
other scientific terms or terminology used should have the meanings
commonly understood by those of skill in the art to which this
invention pertains. Sometimes, terms with commonly understood
meanings are defined for clarity and/or for ready reference, and
including such definitions should not be construed to represent a
substantial difference over what is understood in the art. Many of
the techniques and procedures described, or referenced, are well
understood and commonly employed using conventional methodology by
those skilled in the art.
[0022] The indefinite articles "a" and "an," as used herein in the
specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the
contrary, should be understood to mean "at least one," or as one or
more than one. The term "plurality," as used herein, is defined as
two or more than two.
[0023] The phrase "and/or," as used herein in the specification and
in the claims, should be understood to mean "either or both" of the
elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively
present sometimes and disjunctively present in other cases. Other
elements may optionally be present other than the elements
identified by the "and/or" clause, whether related or unrelated to
those elements identified unless indicated to the contrary. As a
non-limiting example, a reference to "A and/or B," when used in
conjunction with open-ended language such as "comprising" can
refer, in one embodiment, to A without B (optionally including
elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B without A
(optionally including elements other than A); in yet another
embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements);
etc.
[0024] As used in the specification and in the claims, "or" should
be understood to have the same meaning as "and/or" as defined
above. When separating items in a list, "or" or "and/or" shall be
interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., including at least one, but
also including over one, of a number or list of elements, and,
optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms indicated to the
contrary, such as "only one of" or "exactly one of," or, when used
in the claims, "consisting of," will refer to the inclusion of
exactly one element of a number or list of elements. The term "or"
as used shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive
alternatives (i.e. "one or the other but not both") when preceded
by terms of exclusivity, such as "either," "one of," "only one of,"
or "exactly one of" "Consisting essentially of," when used in the
claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of
patent law.
[0025] The term "another," as used herein, is defined as at least a
second or more. The terms "including" and/or "having," as used
herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). The term
"coupled," as used herein, is defined as connected, although not
necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. As used,
the terms "about" or "approximately" apply to all numeric values,
whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms refer to a range
of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent
to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result).
Often these terms may include numbers rounded to the nearest
significant figure.
[0026] As used in the specification and in the claims, the term
"ice-pop" comprises, solidified water like substances with
artificial or natural flavor. Non-limiting examples are: freezer
pops, popsicles, or ice creams.
[0027] As used in the specification and in the claims, the term
"aseptic" refers to sealing that prevents germs from penetrating
the sealed barrier.
[0028] As used in the specification and in the claims, the term
"selectively openable" refers to two items that rarely separate
during their normal intended use, but can be separated from each
other by a user through designed, built-in feature. Examples of
such a feature include line of weakness built into the material
that tears when pressure is applied, an area of glue with less
adhesion than other areas of the container, lids, caps, covers,
closures, top, membranes, foil, paper, plastic, strips, string,
tear-lines, any combination, and more.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals
refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the
separate views and which, with the detailed description below, are
incorporated in and form part of the specification, further
illustrate various embodiments and explain various principles and
advantages all under the present invention. Other features that are
considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the
appended claims. As required, detailed embodiments of the present
invention are disclosed; however, the disclosed embodiments are
merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various
forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details
disclosed are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a
basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one
of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the present
invention in virtually any appropriately detailed structure.
Further, the terms and phrases used are not intended to be
limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable description of
the invention.
[0030] While the specification concludes with claims defining the
features of the invention regarded as novel, it is believed that
the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the
following description with the drawing figures, in which like
reference numerals are carried forward. The figures of the drawings
are not drawn to scale.
[0031] FIG. 1A is an upward-looking perspective view of an
embodiment of a dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container
depicting a straw and an aseptically sealed flexible body defining
an interior volume.
[0032] FIG. 1B is a downward-looking perspective view of the
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 1A with
the straw inserted in a first selectively openable aperture within
the body.
[0033] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container of FIGS. 1A and 1B turned upside down,
a removable member, and a first portion of the bottom of the body
removed and exposes a second selectively openable aperture sized to
permit fluid to escape the interior volume in a frozen state.
[0034] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a conical dual-purpose
popsicle mold/liquid drink container with a liquid selectively
openable removal aperture where at least a partial watertight seal
around is created when a straw is inserted into the aperture.
[0035] FIG. 2A1 is a close-up detailed view of FIG. 2A, depicting
the area of material creating a water-tight seal on the first
selectively openable aperture, and ready to be pulled away and
discarded or penetrated by a straw.
[0036] FIG. 2B is a downward perspective view of the conical shaped
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 2A turned
upside down, a removable member, and a first portion of the bottom
of the body removed and exposes a second selectively openable
aperture that allows the fluid to escape the interior volume in a
frozen state.
[0037] FIG. 2C is a perspective view of the conical shaped
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIGS. 2A and
2B turned upside down, without the removable member and first
portion of the bottom of the body in FIG. 2B and exposing the
second selectively openable aperture wherein fluid escapes the
interior volume in a frozen state.
[0038] FIG. 3A is a downward perspective view of the dual-purpose
popsicle mold/liquid drink container depicting a lid and an
aseptically sealed flexible body defining an interior volume.
[0039] FIG. 3B is a downward perspective view of the dual-purpose
popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 3A with the lid
removed to expose a first selectively openable aperture within the
body.
[0040] FIG. 3C is a downward perspective view of the dual-purpose
popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIGS. 3A and 3B turned
upside down, a removable member, and a first portion of the bottom
of the body removed and exposes a second selectively openable
aperture that allows fluid to escape the interior volume in a
frozen state.
[0041] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container depicting a straw inserted in a first
selectively openable aperture within an aseptically sealed flexible
body defining an interior volume.
[0042] FIG. 4B is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 4A turned upside down, and a
first portion of the bottom of the body removed and exposes a
second selectively openable aperture that allows fluid to escape
the interior volume in a frozen state.
[0043] FIG. 4C is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 4A turned upside down, without
the first portion of the bottom of the body in FIG. 4B and exposing
the second selectively openable aperture that allows fluid to
escape the interior volume in a frozen state.
[0044] FIG. 4D is a flow diagram illustrating a method of consuming
a frozen treat with the container of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container that includes a tubular shaped aseptic
container with a straw puncturing one end of the container to
create a liquid removal aperture forming at least a partial
watertight seal around the straw.
[0046] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 5A, wherein a handle made out
of wood is used to puncture one end of the container to create a
handle before freezing the liquid inside.
[0047] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container of FIGS. 5A and 5B, turned upside down,
wherein a removable member allows for the separation of the
container body from the removable top.
[0048] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container, that includes a spiral tubular shaped
body, and a straw used to puncture one side of the container
allowing for liquid to be extracted and forming at least a partial
watertight seal around the straw.
[0049] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 6A turned upside down, a
removable member, the bottom of the body in FIG. 6A is removed
exposing the second selectively openable aperture that allows fluid
to escape the interior volume in a frozen state.
[0050] FIG. 6C is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 6A, turned upside down, wherein
the spiral tubular shaped aseptic container is contracted to remove
the solid content through the second removable aperture, by pushing
on the bottom of the container body.
[0051] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container, a straw, a removable end cover,
wherein the straw is inserted through the removable cover forming
at least a partial watertight seal around the straw that allows for
the removal of liquid.
[0052] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 7A, with the removable end
cover removed and exposing the second selectively openable aperture
wherein fluid escapes the interior volume in a frozen state by
squeezing of the container body.
[0053] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a tubular shaped
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container, depicting a
straw-handle combination and a lid that covers the liquid removal
opening.
[0054] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of a tubular shaped
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 8A, and a
cap on the liquid removal opening removed to allow fluid to escape
in the liquid state but not in the solid state.
[0055] FIG. 8C is a perspective view of a tubular shaped
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIGS. 8A and
8B turned upside down, wherein the straw-handle with the lid on is
a handle and a selectively removable member that separates the
straw-handle from the container to expose the frozen content.
[0056] FIG. 8D is a perspective view of a tubular shaped
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIGS. 8A, and
8B turned upside down, wherein the frozen content is exposed and
held by the straw-handle.
[0057] FIG. 9A is a downward-looking perspective view of an
embodiment of a dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container
depicting an aseptically sealed flexible body defining an interior
volume and a window to see inside the interior volume.
[0058] FIG. 9B is a downward-looking perspective view of the
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 9A
showing as the solid volume is removed through a second selectively
openable aperture within the body by discarding a removable
member.
[0059] FIG. 9C is an upward-looking perspective tilted view of the
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIGS. 9A and
9B, wherein a "v" shaped structure at the bottom end of the body is
shown and the window that allows for the solid content to be viewed
inside the container.
[0060] FIG. 9D is a side view of the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container of FIGS. 9A 9B and 9C, showing how a
user uses the "v" shaped structure at the bottom end to remove the
solid content of the container.
[0061] FIG. 10A is a downward-looking perspective view of an
embodiment of a dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container
depicting a removable member on top of a foldable triangle top end
that allows for stacking of the containers.
[0062] FIG. 10B is a downward-looking perspective view of the
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 10A
showing as the solid volume is removed through a second selectively
openable aperture within the body by discarding a removable
member.
[0063] FIG. 10C is a downward-looking perspective view of the
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container of FIG. 10A
showing an arrow to indicate that when folded, the cross-fold-lines
in concert with vertical-fold-line collapse within itself to allow
for stacking of the container one on top of the other.
[0064] FIG. 10D is a downward-looking perspective view of the
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container and continuation
sequence of FIG. 10C showing the top surface as it folds and covers
the openable aperture.
[0065] FIG. 10E is a downward-looking perspective view of the
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink containers and continuation
sequence of FIG. 10D showing how the dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container are stacked one on top of another.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0066] While the specification concludes with claims defining the
features of the invention regarded as novel, it is believed that
the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the
following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in
which like reference numerals are carried forward. It is to be
understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of
the invention, which can be embodied in various forms.
[0067] The present invention provides a novel dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container. Embodiments of the invention provide
for a liquid container that allows for extraction of the contents
in liquid and solid form. Embodiments of the invention provide for
a method to use this drink container so a person can enjoy the
contents within this container both in liquid and solid form.
[0068] Referring now to FIG. 1A, one embodiment of the present
invention is illustrated in an upward-looking perspective view. The
illustrated embodiment shows several advantageous features of the
novel container 100, but, the invention can be provided in several
shapes, sizes, combinations of features and components, and varying
numbers and functions of the components. The first example of the
novel dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container 100
includes a plastically deformable straw 107, an aseptically sealed
flexible body 106 defining an interior volume, a first selectively
openable aperture 101 at a first end 103 of the body 106, a second
selectively openable aperture, generally represented by reference
number 112 in FIG. 1A, but not visible in this view, at a second
end 111 of the body 106. It also features a straw pouch 110 wherein
the straw 107 is placed during manufacturing and is readily
available to a user. In this embodiment, the drink container 100 is
openable by penetrating a portion of the first end 103, i.e., the
first selectively openable aperture 101, of first end 103 of the
body 106 with the straw 107. The first aperture 101 is an area of
foil 104 penetrable by a tip of the straw 107. The invention is in
no way limited to foil and can use other materials that serve to
seal the container and are penetrable by a flexible plastic straw.
In some embodiments, the entire side of the container is a foil or
other material that is penetrable by the end of a straw. In some
embodiments, the aperture 101 is preformed and is not created by
the straw's penetration, although the straw can pass through it in
a penetrating manner. In one such embodiment, the aperture can be
resealed by pressing the foil 104 against the body 106 once the
straw is removed. The area of foil 104 may also be pulled away and
discarded. At the opposite end of 103, a removable member 105, such
as a tear-line is shown. If removed, the tear-line would separate
the first portion 113 of the second end 111 of the body 106 from a
second portion 102 of the second end 111 of the body 106.
[0069] FIG. 1B provides a downward-looking perspective view of the
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container 100 of FIG. 1A.
The drink container 100 contains an amount of fluid 108 disposed
within the interior volume, the fluid having a liquid state and a
frozen state. The fluid disposed within the container 100 could be
fruit juices or any other consumable beverage. The volume of fluid
can be equivalent to that within a traditional children's
single-serve juice box. As a non-limiting range, the liquid
disposed within the interior volume of the aseptic purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink container 100 can be between about 4 oz. and 10
oz., or between about 100 ml. and 300 ml. but the invention is not
so limited.
[0070] FIG. 1B also depicts how the drink container 100 is openable
by penetrating, or otherwise inserting, the straw 107 into a
aperture 101 of the first end 103 of the body 106, e.g., through
the foil 104. The selectively openable aperture 101 is sized to
permit the fluid 108 to escape the interior volume in a liquid
state but not in a frozen state. The aperture 101 is too small to
allow the frozen contents to escape. Here, the straw pouch 110 of
FIG. 1A is peeled away and discarded.
[0071] FIG. 1B also shows a removable member 105 operable to
separate a first portion 113 of the second end 111 of the body 106
from a second portion 102 of the second end 111 of the body 106 to
open the second selectively openable aperture 112 (shown best in
FIG. 1C).
[0072] FIG. 1C depicts a downward looking perspective view of the
juice box container 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B turned upside down.
Here, the second portion 102 of the second end 111 of the body 106
is removable to open the second selectively openable aperture 112.
The exposed second selectively openable aperture 112 is sized to
permit the fluid to escape the interior volume of the juice box
container 100 in a frozen state 109. The aperture is big enough to
allow the entire contents to slide out. More specifically, the
first portion 113 of the second end 111 is separable from the
second portion 102 of the second end 111 of the body 106 to expose
the second selectively openable aperture 112. The first end 103 and
second end 111 are separated by tear-line member 105. This is shown
in FIG. 1C removable member 105, a strip of material that can be
removed from the body 106 by pulling on it. Strips such as
tear-line member 105 are well known in the art. One of the main
advantages of the present invention is that the ice-pop 109 can be
easily enjoyed using the same drink container body 106, without the
need to transfer to another container before freezing.
[0073] The straw 107 is a tube used to suck a beverage or fluid out
of a container such as 106. Straws 107 are usually made from
polypropylene plastic. Polypropylene is a resin made by
polymerizing, or stringing together, molecules of a propylene gas.
The polypropylene resin must first be mixed with the plasticizers,
colorants, antioxidants, stabilizers, and fillers. These materials,
in powder form, are dumped into the hopper of an extrusion
compounder that mixes, melts, and forms beads of the blended
plastic. The resin exits the die in a long string in the shape of a
straw 107.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 2A, another embodiment of the present
invention, namely, a cone shaped popsicle mold/liquid drink box
container 200 is depicted. FIG. 2A1 is a close-up detailed view of
the upper portion of FIG. 2A, depicting the area of foil 204
creating a water-tight seal on the first selectively openable
aperture 201, and ready to be pulled away and discarded by a user.
FIG. 2A shows, that once the area of foil 204 is removed, it allows
for the straw 207 to be introduced into body 206 for the liquid 208
to be extracted. FIG. 2A also shows an embodiment that includes a
straw 207, and an aseptically sealed flexible body 206 defining an
interior volume and having a first end 203 with a liquid removal
opening 201 crated by the straw 207 as it punctures the body 206.
The liquid removal opening forms at least a partial watertight seal
around the straw 207. The body 206 here conforms a sloping
transition between the first end 203 to the second end 211
terminating in removable member 205.
[0075] FIGS. 2B and 2C depict the juice box 200 of FIG. 2A
upside-down. The second end 211 has a frozen content removal
aperture 212 sized to permit frozen state contents 209 of the body
206 to be removed in a solid state. There is a difference between
the sizes of the first opening 201 (shown in FIG. 2A) at the first
end 203 and the second aperture 212 at the second end 211. Because
of the size difference, if the contents 209 of the juice box 200
were frozen, the contents 209 could not be removed through the
smaller first opening 201. If the contents 209 were partially
frozen or if the there was a small amount of contents 209 within
the body 206, it is possible that some contents 209 could fit
through the smaller first opening 201 (shown in FIG. 2A). However,
it is contemplated that if the body was filled at least 50% with
the contents 209, and the contents 209 were frozen to a solid
state, the contents 209 could not be removed from the first end 203
but could easily be removed from the second end 211. FIG. 2B also
depicts how the selectively removable member 205 will expose the
frozen content 209 through the second selectively openable aperture
212 when removed by a user. Here, the selectively removable member
205 is glued to the second portion 202 of the second end 211. The
glue/adhesive allows for easy removal of the removable member 205.
The drink box container 200 shows the straw 207 folded on the
outside of the body 206.
[0076] FIG. 2C depicts a downward looking perspective view of the
juice box 200 of FIG. 2A turned upside down. Here, the exposed
second selectively openable aperture 212 is sized to permit the
fluid to escape the interior volume of the juice box 200 in a
frozen state 209. The aperture is big enough to allow the entire
contents to slide out. The strip of material of removable member
205 of FIG. 2B was removed completely from the body 206 and is not
shown in this view. Again, one of the main advantages of juice box
200 is that the ice-pop content 209 can be easily enjoyed using the
same drink container body 206, without the need to transfer to
another container before freezing.
[0077] As shown in FIGS. 1A and 2A, the shape of the containers 100
and 200 may vary. These embodiments encompass a liquid removal
opening and a solid removal opening, in relative opposite ends. The
following body shapes could be used for the same function, in the
same way, to achieve the same result: sphere, cube, cuboid,
cylinder, hexagonal prism, cone, square pyramid, triangular-based
pyramid, triangular prism, and others.
[0078] FIGS. 3A and 3B depict yet another embodiment of the
invention in a downward looking perspective view. A dual-purpose
popsicle mold/liquid drink container 300, similar to the embodiment
of FIGS. 2A-C, is in the shape of a cone, the body 306 defining a
sloping transition from the first end 303 to the second end 311
ending in removable member 305. The container 300 includes a lid
301 screwable onto a lid-thread 302 disposed at the first
selectively openable aperture 321 at a first end 303 of body 306.
The lid 301 could attach in other ways in other envisioned
embodiments. The first end 303 of the body 306 is openable by
removing the screw-able lid 301 to permit the fluid 308 to escape.
The aperture 321 is the smallest diameter of the cone-shaped body
306. The aperture 321 allows the contents of the body 306 to easily
escape in a liquid form 308. However, if the contents of the body
306 are frozen 309 (as shown in FIG. 3C), or even partially frozen,
the aperture 321 is too small for the entire contents to
escape.
[0079] The aseptically sealed flexible body 306 defines an interior
volume typically between about 4 oz. and 10 oz., or between about
100 ml. and 300 ml. The fluid within the interior volume is
inserted into the container body 306 in a liquid state 308 and
later converted into a frozen state 309 after being placed in a
freezer.
[0080] FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the conical shaped
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container 300 of FIGS. 3A
and 3B turned upside down. The lid 301 is put and closed at the now
bottom end 303 of the body 306. The second aperture 312, on the top
end 311, is selectively openable by removing a removable member 305
(tear-line) and exposing the ice content 309. Here, the aperture
312 allows the contents to escape the interior volume of the body
306 in the frozen state, i.e., as a solid ice-pop or ice cream. As
a user holds the container 300 and melts the frozen contents where
they contact the body 306, the smooth slope of the wall of body 306
allows for easy removal of the frozen content. The removable member
305 is operable to separate the second portion 302 of the second
end 311 of the body 306 to open the second selectively openable
aperture 312. Instead of being a removable tear strip, as
illustrated in FIG. 3C, the removable member 305 can be integral
with the removable lid 302 and be removably coupled to the second
end 311 of the body 306 with adhesive or other mechanical
measures.
[0081] Referring now to FIGS. 4A-4C, another embodiment of the
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container 400 is shown.
FIGS. 4A-4C will be described in conjunction with the steps shown
in the process flow chart of FIG. 4D, which illustrates a novel
method for using a drink container. Referring now to FIG. 4A and
FIG. 4D, the method starts at step 421 by filling the body with a
fluid and moves directly to step 423 where an aseptically sealed
flexible body 406 with fluid inside is introduced to a freezing
temperature for a time sufficient to place the fluid into a frozen
state. In step 425, the flexible body 406 is turned upside down
from its normal drinking orientation in FIG. 4A. In step 427, a
selectively removable member 405 is removed to expose the contents
of the body 406 in their frozen state as shown in FIG. 4B. In step
429, as shown in FIG. 4C, the user squeezes the flexible body 406
to remove the contents in the frozen state 409.
[0082] With more specific reference to FIG. 4A, a first selectively
openable aperture 421 at a first end 403 of the body 406 is
openable by penetrating end portion 420 with the straw 407. As in
the previously described embodiments, the aperture 421 is sized to
permit the fluid to escape the interior volume in a liquid state
but not in a frozen state. On the opposite second end 411 of body
406, a second selectively openable aperture 412 allows the fluid to
escape the interior volume in the frozen state 409 (shown in FIG.
4B and FIG. 4C).
[0083] FIG. 4B is FIG. 4A turned upside down, and shows removable
member 405 resembling a lid as it is removed from body 406. The lid
405 is secured at the end 411 of body 406 in a sealed arrangement.
In the embodiment shown, the removable member 405 further includes
a tongue-tab 401 for easy removal by the user. By completely
removing member 405, the fluid is exposed in the frozen state 409,
and, as shown in FIG. 4C, the flexible body 406 then allows the
contents to be extracted through second selectively openable 412 by
squeezing the sides of the body 406.
[0084] The dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink package 400
should be sturdy enough to sustain freezing. Freezing or
solidification is a phase transition in which a liquid turns into a
solid when its temperature is lowered to or below its freezing
point. Most of fluid drinks to be used with the dual-purpose
popsicle mold/liquid drink container 400 are composed mostly of
water. For most fluid drinks, the melting and freezing points are
the same temperature; however, certain substances possess differing
solid-liquid transition temperatures. As an example, the freezing
point or melting point of water is the temperature at which water
changes phase from a liquid to a solid or vice versa. The freezing
point describes the liquid to solid transition while the melting
point is the temperature at which water goes from a solid (ice) to
liquid (water). Ordinarily the freezing point of water is 0.degree.
C. or 32.degree. F.
[0085] In another embodiment of the invention, shown in FIGS. 5A
and 5B, the dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container 500
is in the shape of a traditional cup. One main feature of the
container 500 is that the liquid removal and solid removal occurs
at the same end 503 of body 506, and end portion 521 acts a barrier
for both liquid and solid. Here, the popsicle mold/liquid drink
container 500 includes a handle 501, and a straw 517. Both are
usually disposed on the outside the container body 506 inside its
own pouch, such as pouch 510. The handle 501 could be made out of
wood or plastic, preferably disposable. The handle 501 and the
straw 517 are to be removed from pouch 510 and inserted into the
same end 503 through end portion 521 of body 506 by a user. When
the straw 517 is inserted using straw tip 507, a liquid removal
aperture 531 is created. Since the straw tip 507 is sharp or
angled, it allows for an easy insertion. Because of the penetration
of end portion 521, the liquid removal aperture 531 forms a partial
watertight seal around the straw 517. Liquid is then allowed to
escape the container 500 by suction placed on the straw 517 or by
squeezing the sides of body 506. Selectively removable a member 505
is also disposed on the same end 503 along second removal aperture
512.
[0086] In FIG. 5B, before freezing, a user can form a handle by
locating the tip 513 of handle 501, inserting it into end portion
521 of same end 503 of the body 506, and allowing the liquid
content to transform into a solid. The frozen liquid solidifies
around handle 501 making it an excellent tool for extraction of the
solid content. After the selectively removable member 505 is
removed to expose removal aperture 512, body 506 is then removed
downward, allowing the interior volume to be removed in a frozen
state 509 (not shown). Since solidification occurred around handle
501, handle 501 allows holding the ice treat upside down, as shown
in FIG. 5C.
[0087] FIG. 5C is an upside-down view of FIGS. 5A and 5B. Here, the
selectively removable member 505 has been removed to expose the
frozen content 509. The advantage of this embodiment is
significant. Its novel approach allows this dual-purpose container
500 to minimize production costs. In the same package, a user can
use the tip of the straw 507 to penetrate end portion 521 of the
body 506 and allow for its content in liquid form to exit. Keeping
the same orientation, if punctured by the tip 513 (shown in FIG.
5A) of handle 501, a frozen-treat 509 could be held if frozen.
Another advantage of being openable in an upright orientation is
that if handle 513 or straw 517 is not available or lost, by
removing the end portion 521, the ice-treat 509 could be eaten
using a spoon, and the juice could be consumed as if drinking from
a regular cup.
[0088] FIG. 6A shows another embodiment of the dual-purpose
popsicle mold/liquid drink container 600. Here, the body 606 is
formed as a tubular-spiral. The container 600 includes: a straw
607, a first selectively openable aperture 631, at a first end 603
and a second selectively openable aperture 612 (hidden from this
view) at the opposite second end 611 of a tubular-spiral body 606.
The sealed flexible tubular-spiral body 606 includes a helix
accordion edge 601 running from the first end 603 to the second end
611, for the entire length of the body 606. In this view, the
second end 611 is the bottom end. The bottom end 611 includes a
removable member 605 to open the second selectively openable
aperture 612 (hidden from this view). In FIG. 6A, as in previous
figures, by inserting the straw 607 into the first end portion 621,
a first selectively openable aperture 631 is created allowing a
user to sip the liquid contents inside.
[0089] FIGS. 6B and 6C show FIG. 6A upside-down. After placing the
aseptically sealed flexible body 606 filled with fluid or juice
into a freezer, the frozen treat is ready for extraction from the
second end 611. By turning the body 601 upside down, the second end
611 becomes the top end. Now, the removable member 605, depicted
here as a strip of cardboard or plastic, is removed to open the
second selectively openable aperture 612 previously hidden. The
second end portion 623 can then be removed and discarded. Then, the
contents of the body may be removed from the body in a frozen state
609 by pushing from the bottom of the accordion shaped body 606 as
shown in FIG. 6C. The accordion-like shape body 606 folds within
itself in a spiral formation along edge lines 601.
[0090] FIGS. 7A and 7B depict dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid
drink container 700 depicting a square pyramid body 706. FIG. 7A
includes a square removable end portion 703 that is a lid to cover
and protect the inside contents of the body 706. The lid 703 is
sufficiently frail to allow a straw 707 to puncture to create a
first liquid removal aperture 721, but strong enough to protect the
liquid content. The lid 703 is also removable, disposable, and
comprises tongue-tab 731 for easy grabbing by a user. As the lid
703 is removed, the solid removal opening 712 is exposed. The
pyramid aseptic package container 700 internally contains a cuboid
702 volume of liquid of between about 4 oz., and 10 oz., or between
about 100 ml. and 300 ml. By exposing the aseptically sealed
flexible body 706 to a freezing temperature for a time sufficient
to place the fluid into the frozen state, a cuboid 702 ice-pop 709
is created inside as shown in FIG. 7B. This design incorporates
flexible holding-wings 701 at the bottom end of body 706. The
holding-wings 701 are used to push up the frozen treat 709 through
the solid removal opening 712. The large surface area of the
holding-wings 701 is helpful to children because it allows them for
a better grip. It also prevents the rapid melting of the ice-treat
since there is no direct contact with the cuboid 702 volume of
frozen liquid.
[0091] The dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container 800 of
FIGS. 8A and 8B is a cylinder shaped body 806 that uses a
straw-handle 801 for extraction of liquid. The straw-handle 801
should be made of a stiff enough material to enable a user to hold
an ice-treat after freezing. Since, the straw-handle 801 is also a
straw; a user can likewise sip the juice content. A removable cover
821 or screwable lid is disposed to seal the first selectively
openable aperture 811. The straw-handle 801 combo is further
disposed on a selectively openable aperture 812 (not shown). Before
using the drink container to have a drink, the lid 821 is removed
to allow the contents inside the body 806 to escape in liquid form.
By putting it back on, it will allow the container to be used
multiple times until all the contents of the body are extracted.
After exposing the aseptically sealed flexible body 806 to a
freezing temperature an ice-pop (hidden) will be created inside the
body 806. The straw-handle 801 is then used to hold the ice-pop by
a user's hand. One of the advantages of this embodiment is that a
user might drink half the liquid and freeze half of the liquid
content for later consumption in solid form.
[0092] In FIGS. 8C and 8D, a depiction of FIG. 8A upside down shows
the drink container 800 with its contents in solid form after
freezing. The cylindrical drink container 800 contains an amount of
fluid equivalent to a traditional children's single-serve square
juice box. FIG. 8C shows selectively removable member 805, which is
a tear-line made out of cardboard. The tear-line 805, as it is
removed, exposes the selectively openable aperture 812 that allows
the body 806 to be separated from straw-handle 801. When member 805
is removed in its entirety, the body 806 is then separated away
from straw-handle 801. As shown in FIG. 8D, as long as the first
removable cover 821 is in place, no liquid content should exit,
unless so wanted by the user. At least one advantage of this
embodiment is that a separate straw or a handle-stick is not
needed, saving in packaging and assembly costs. The straw-handle
801 should be made of hard enough materials for it not to bend when
holding the ice-pop. A durometer hardness of between: 10 to 85
could be used. Examples of such as a hard plastic usable for this
embodiment include: acetals, acrylics, amino resins, cellulosics,
phenolics, polyamides, polyesters, polyolefins, polyurethanes,
styrenes, vinyls and any combination and more. Although FIGS. 8A-D
show the treat 809 being removed from the body 806 in the direction
of the handle 801, the handle can also be used to push the treat
809 upward.
[0093] Referring now to FIG. 9A, another embodiment of the novel
dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container 900 is
illustrated in a downward-looking perspective view. The illustrated
container 900 shows several advantageous features of the present
invention. The novel drink container 900 is made of an aseptically
sealed flexible material defining an interior liquid 908 volume. A
first selectively openable aperture 921 at a first end 903 of the
body 906 is created for the penetration of a straw (not shown). A
second selectively openable aperture 912, (not visible in this
view) is disposed on the same end 903 of body 906 and is created
after the removal of a tear-line 905. Tear-line 905, a strip of
material, is created for the entire length of the circumference of
body 906. In this embodiment, the drink container 900 is openable
both by penetrating a portion of the first end 903, with a straw or
removing tear-line 905 at the same first end 903. The first
selectively openable aperture 921, of first end 903 of the body 906
is covered by an area 924 of foil or thin plastic either removable
or penetrable by a tip of a straw. Because of the size difference,
if the contents of the juice box 900 were frozen, the contents
could not be removed through the smaller first aperture 921.
[0094] FIG. 9A features an optional window 913. This window 913
allows for a user to see how much liquid or solid content is inside
container 900. Window 913 could be made of clear plastic material
and be part of the aseptic packaging. Aseptic paper packages are
usually made of several layers of laminated paper and plastic. In
one of the paper laminates, a sliver of paper can be cut off before
the plastic lamination is placed. Hence, the clear plastic laminate
would cover the paper cut-out creating a window 913 into the liquid
908 inside the package. After placing the container of FIG. 9A into
a freezer, and giving it enough time for the liquid to solidify, a
frozen treat is created as shown in FIG. 9B. FIG. 9B shows how the
exposed second selectively openable aperture 912 allows the
previously fluid content to escape in a frozen state 909. In this
figure, the first end 903, the removable tear-line member 905, was
removed completely. After removal, the tear-line separates
removable portion 902 from the main body 906 of the container. One
feature of container 900 is that the liquid removal and solid
removal occurs at the same end 903 of body 906. One of the
advantages of container 900 that the body 906 is kept in an upright
position allowing for removal of liquid without a straw at all.
[0095] At the opposite end 911, in FIG. 9B, at first end 903 of
body 906, a wedge-like edge 901 is created as part of the container
900. This "v" shaped folded structure at the bottom end 911 of body
906 creates a wedge-like edge 901 for pushing the ice treat after
solidification. Using this structure, a user can use two fingers to
remove the ice-treat through openable aperture 912. Here, the
window 913 allows for the bottom edge 919 of the ice-treat 909 to
show how much is left inside the body 906.
[0096] Referring now to FIG. 9C, an upward tilted view allows for a
closer look into the "v" shaped folded structure 901 at the bottom
end 911 of body 906. The "v" shaped folded structure creates a
grabbing surface 917, for two or more finger to be inserted into
the bottom of the container 900. Flexible straw 907 is still
attached to the outside surface of body 906 as it was not used
since ice-treat solid 909 is coming out of aperture 912. As
depicted in FIG. 9D, a user 921 uses the thumb and index finger to
squeeze the "v" shape grabbing surface 917. The heat released from
the thumb and index finger melts some solid 909 allowing the easy
removal of the frozen content through aperture 912. Window 913 and
solid bottom edge 919 shown on the side of the container 900, is
used to view the inside content now in solid form.
[0097] FIG. 10A shows a further embodiment 1000 of the present
invention, which features a square shaped body with a triangular
top. As in previous embodiments, FIG. 10A depicts the area of foil
or other material 1004 creating a water-tight seal on the first
selectively openable aperture 1001. This area of material, e.g.,
plastic, 1004 is ready to be pulled away and discarded by a user or
penetrated by straw 1027 shown here on the side of container body
1006. Once the area of material 1004 is removed, it allows for the
liquid to be extracted. Body 1006 includes an optional window 1033
similar to the one found in FIG. 9A that allows viewing of the
inside contents of the container. Also similar to previously
presented FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, the liquid removal and solid
extraction occurs at the same end 1003 of body 1006.
[0098] On top of the triangular top of end 1003, in FIG. 10A, a
selectively removable member 1005 (also described previously as a
tear-line) is removable and dischargeable by a user. In this view
horizontal-fold-line 1007 is depicted, a pre-formed folding-line
made by pressing the aseptic material laminate with sharp edge. As
removable member 1005 is detached, the content in liquid or solid
form can be extracted through the same aperture 1012. This feature
is very useful since, in many occasions, the straw 1027 is lost or
removed from the body 1006 by accident; hence a user can drink the
content in liquid form with no straw 1027. Another advantage is
that if aperture 1012 is defective or leaking, by keeping the
container body 1006 upright, none of the contents will be spilled.
On the opposite second end 1011, a vertical-fold-line 1019 is shown
with folding wings 1013. Folding wings 1013 have similar purpose as
folding wings previously described in FIGS. 7A and 7B.
[0099] FIG. 10B depicts the juice box container 1000 of FIG. 10A
after the fluid inside was exposed to a freezing temperature for a
time sufficient to convert the fluid into its frozen state. On the
same first end 1003, the frozen content removal aperture 1012
allows content 1029 to be removed from body 1006 in a frozen state
1029. This view shows cross-fold lines 1009 that form the
triangular top first end 1003 as previously shown in FIG. 10A. When
folded in concert with cross-fold-lines 1009, it creates a flat
surface that allows for stacking of the containers one on top of
the other (not shown). These types of fold-lines 1009, as shown,
are used to create the triangular top at first end 1003 of FIG.
10A. The selectively removable member 1005, after removal, will
expose the frozen 1029 or liquid content (reference number 1008 in
FIG. 10A). After letting the container 1000 of FIG. 10A sit inside
a freezer for a time sufficient to solidify its content, an
ice-cream or ice-pop 1029, is created. The container 1000
(similarly to previously depicted FIGS. 9A and 9B) uses optional
window 1033 to see how much liquid or solid content is left inside
the container body 1006. Window 1013 could be made of clear plastic
material and be part of the aseptic packaging 1000. At the second
end 1011 of the body 1006, the vertical folding lines 1013, with
the folding wings 1013 create a way for the contents to be squeezed
out by a user.
[0100] FIGS. 10C, 10D, and 10E are downward looking perspective
views of the juice box container 1000 that show the ability to
stack one container 1000 on top of the other. Here, the main
advantage of cross-fold-lines 1009 and the vertical-fold-line 1007
is shown. FIG. 10C shows cross-fold lines 1009 forming the
triangular top first end 1003 in its upright position. As the arrow
1021 indicates, when folded, the cross-fold-lines 1009 in concert
with vertical-fold-line 1007 collapse within themselves and create
a flat surface as shown in FIG. 10D. This fold is beneficial in two
ways: first, top-surface 1017 is the stronger surface because it
does not have an aperture. Every time a material is pierced,
stress-concentrations are created in the material. Such stresses
could make a material vulnerable to failures and cracks. In this
case, for instance, the first selectively openable aperture 1001
covered with foil 1004 can be easily damaged or removed by
accident. By folding along the vertical-fold-line 1007, the
openable aperture 1001 will be concealed and protected against any
sudden rips and tears. Second, top-surface 1017 is flat, and this
allows for other containers to be placed on top as shown in FIG.
10E. The ability to stack is beneficial during packaging, and when
displayed at a store front. At the same time, window 1033 allows
for a user to see how much liquid 1008 or solid volume is in the
container 1000 even when stacked together as a pack. It is
envisioned that the bottom portion 1011 of the container 1000
depicted in FIGS. 10A-E can be provided with the same bottom
portion 911 of the container 900 of FIGS. 9A-D.
[0101] In summary, as shown in FIGS. 5A, 7A, 8A, 9A, and 10A, the
shape of the dual-purpose popsicle mold/liquid drink container may
vary, to include a liquid removal aperture and a solid removal
aperture, on the same end. As an alternative, and as seen in FIGS.
1A, 2A, 3A, 4A, and 6A, the liquid removal aperture and a solid
removal aperture, are shown at opposite ends. Correspondingly, the
following container shapes could be used for the same function, in
the same way, to achieve the same result: spheres, cubes, cuboids,
cylinders, hexagonal prisms, cones, square pyramids,
triangular-based pyramids and triangular prisms.
[0102] The material used in the aseptic dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink box containers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700,
800, 900 and 1000 can vary depending on packaging and the type of
liquid deposited inside. The packaging can accommodate severe
temperature changes and thermal stresses. From extreme heat for
sterilization, to extreme cold, sufficient to freeze its content
without tearing or cracking. In addition, the materials will,
preferably, be robust enough to sustain the stresses of the
children that bring the drink container into harsh environments
such as lunch boxes, playtime, and camping trips.
[0103] Packaging materials of the aseptic dual-purpose popsicle
mold/liquid drink box containers 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700,
800, 900 and 1000, that could be used for the same function, in the
same way, to achieve the same result include: 1) Laminates and
metallized films which involve the binding of aluminum foil to
paper or plastic film to improve barrier properties; 2) Tinplates
produced from low-carbon steel (Tinplate results from coating both
sides of blackplate with thin layers of tin. Although tin provides
steel with some corrosion resistance, tinplate containers are often
lacquered with epoxy phenolic and oleoresinous groups and vinyl
resins, to provide an inert barrier between the metal and the food
product); 3) Plastics (made by condensation polymerization
(polycondensation) or addition polymerization (polyaddition) of
monomer units); 4) Polyolefins (a collective term for polyethylene
and polypropylene, the two most widely used plastics in food
packaging, and other less popular olefin polymers. Polyethylene and
polypropylene both possess a desirable combination of properties,
including flexibility, strength, lightness, stability, moisture and
chemical resistance, and easy processability); and 5) Paper
laminates (coated or uncoated papers based on pulp. They can be
laminated with plastic or aluminum to improve various properties.
Paper can be laminated with polyethylene to make it heat sealable
and to improve gas and moisture barrier properties. Paper is almost
always treated, coated, laminated, or impregnated with materials
such as waxes, resins, or lacquers to improve functional and
protective properties).
[0104] While the foregoing written description of the invention
enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is the best
mode, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the
existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the
specific embodiment, method, and examples. The invention should
therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method,
and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope
and spirit of the invention.
[0105] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will
so fully reveal the general nature of the invention that others
can, by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily
modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific
embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from
the general concept of the present invention. Therefore, such
adaptations and modifications are within the meaning and range of
equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and
guidance presented. The phraseology or terminology is for
description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or
phraseology of the present specification is interpreted by the
skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance. The breadth
and scope of the present invention should not be limited by the
above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only
under the following claims and their equivalents.
* * * * *