U.S. patent application number 14/854673 was filed with the patent office on 2016-03-17 for food dispensing mouthpiece.
The applicant listed for this patent is Paula BRAXTON, Jennifer RADSPINNER. Invention is credited to Paula BRAXTON, Jennifer RADSPINNER.
Application Number | 20160075483 14/854673 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42239308 |
Filed Date | 2016-03-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160075483 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BRAXTON; Paula ; et
al. |
March 17, 2016 |
FOOD DISPENSING MOUTHPIECE
Abstract
An apparatus comprising a fitment, a neck portion, and a
mouthpiece. In various embodiments, the fitment may be configured
to attach the apparatus substantially permanently with a flexible
pouch containing edible material. In one embodiment, the fitment
may include a first hole configured to provide an exit point for
the edible material from the flexible pouch. In various
embodiments, the neck portion may be configured to connect the
fitment and a mouthpiece portion. In one embodiment, the neck
portion may include a channel configured to transmit the edible
material from the hole of the fitment to the mouthpiece. In various
embodiments, the mouthpiece may be configured to facilitate eating
of the edible material. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece may
include a concave portion configured to hold the edible material,
and a second hole configured to transmit the edible material from
the neck portion to the concave portion.
Inventors: |
BRAXTON; Paula; (Charlotte,
NC) ; RADSPINNER; Jennifer; (Portland, OR) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BRAXTON; Paula
RADSPINNER; Jennifer |
Charlotte
Portland |
NC
OR |
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
42239308 |
Appl. No.: |
14/854673 |
Filed: |
September 15, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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13887484 |
May 6, 2013 |
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14854673 |
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12558436 |
Sep 11, 2009 |
8459504 |
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13887484 |
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61096683 |
Sep 12, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/705 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61J 7/0023 20130101;
A47G 21/004 20130101; B65D 35/38 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 35/38 20060101
B65D035/38 |
Claims
1-21. (canceled)
22. An apparatus comprising a container configured to store fluid
edible material, and a food dispensing mouthpiece comprising a
trapezoid shaped cone having a top, base portion and side portion,
an opening positioned in the top and being configured to route the
fluid edible material from the container to the top of the
mouthpiece, and a neck portion configured to attach the food
dispensing mouthpiece substantially permanently to the
container.
23. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the mouthpiece comprises a
plurality of openings.
24. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the opening is circular.
25. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the opening is oval.
26. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the mouthpiece base portion
expands out to create a mouthguard.
27. The apparatus of claim 26 wherein the mouthpiece further
comprises comfortable contours to allow the trapezoid shaped cone
to be inserted into the mouth and the lips of the consumer to rest
comfortably against the contours of the mouthguard.
28. The apparatus of claim 27 wherein the base continues and hangs
beyond the comfortable contours to create a skirt which allows a
lower portion of the neck portion to be hidden from view when the
neck portion and mouthpiece are securely engaged.
29. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein an inside of the mouthpiece
is adapted to be attached to the neck portion.
30. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the inside of the mouthpiece
comprises threading grooves for attachment to the neck portion.
31. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the mouthpiece, neck portion
and container are attached and provide airtight and watertight
means between the mouthpiece, neck portion and container.
32. The apparatus of claim 22 comprising one or more rings included
at the base of the mouthpiece to prevent choking if the mouthpiece
is swallowed by a consumer.
33. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the mouthpiece comprises an
outer surface of a soft material with an underlying harder material
whereby the soft material is configured to reduce the chance of
injury to a consumer taking edible material from the apparatus.
34. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the neck portion is
cylindrical having an upper threaded portion and a projection
between the threaded portion and the container.
35. The apparatus of claim 22 wherein the apparatus further
includes a removable cap configured to cover the mouthpiece and the
neck portion.
36. An apparatus comprising a container configured to store fluid
edible material, and a frustoconical shaped food dispensing
mouthpiece comprising a top, base portion and side portion, an
opening positioned in the top and being configured to route the
fluid edible material from the container to the top of the
mouthpiece, and a neck portion extending from the container and
configured to attach the food dispensing mouthpiece substantially
permanently to the container.
37. The apparatus of claim 36 wherein the mouthpiece base portion
expands out to create a mouthguard.
38. The apparatus of claim 37 wherein the mouthpiece further
comprises comfortable contours to allow the frustoconical shaped
mouthpiece to be inserted into the mouth and the lips of the
consumer to rest comfortably against the contours of the
mouthguard.
39. The apparatus of claim 38 wherein the base continues and hangs
beyond the comfortable contours to create a skirt extending from
the mouthpiece toward the container and which allows a lower
portion of the neck portion to be hidden from view when the neck
portion and mouthpiece are securely engaged.
40. The apparatus of claim 36 wherein an inside of the mouthpiece
is adapted to be attached to the neck portion.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn.119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/096,683, filed Sep. 12, 2008, the entire contents of which are
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. This application
is a continuation and claims benefit of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 13/887,484 filed May 6, 2013 which is a continuation of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/558,436 filed Sep. 11, 2009
(now U.S. Pat. No. 8,459,504), the subject matter of which is
hereby incorporated by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This description relates to a feeding system and more
specifically a mouthpiece for feeding infants or invalids.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Generally, infants or invalids are spoon feed. Often this is
a two handed process in which one hand is used to hold a container
of food while the other hand holds a spoon or other eating utensil.
This is frequently inconvenient. For example, in the case of an
infant, a third hand may be needed to hold the child. However,
often performing these three actions with only two hands frequently
leads to difficulty.
SUMMARY
[0004] According to one general aspect, an apparatus comprising a
fitment, a neck portion, and a mouthpiece. In various embodiments,
the fitment may be configured to attach the apparatus substantially
permanently with a flexible pouch containing edible material. In
one embodiment, the fitment may include a first hole configured to
provide an exit point for the edible material from the flexible
pouch. In various embodiments, the neck portion may be configured
to connect the fitment and a mouthpiece portion. In one embodiment,
the neck portion may include a channel configured to transmit the
edible material from the hole of the fitment to the mouthpiece. In
various embodiments, the mouthpiece may be configured to facilitate
eating of the edible material. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece
may include a concave portion configured to hold the edible
material, and a second hole configured to transmit the edible
material from the neck portion to the concave portion.
[0005] According to another general aspect, an apparatus comprising
a fitment and a mouthpiece. In various embodiments, the fitment may
be configured to attach the apparatus substantially permanently
with a container configured to hold semi-liquid material. In one
embodiment, the fitment may include a spout configured to discharge
the semi-liquid material from the container. In various
embodiments, the mouthpiece may include a tubular hole and a
holding portion. In some embodiments, the tubular hole may be
positioned longitudinally and configured to route the semi-liquid
material from the spout to a holding portion. In some embodiments,
the holding portion may be configured to hold the semi-liquid
material that has been discharged from the container via the
tubular hole.
[0006] According to another general aspect, a system comprising a
container and a food dispensing mouthpiece. In one embodiment, the
container may be configured to store fluid edible material. In
various embodiments, the food dispensing mouthpiece may include a
fitment and a mouthpiece portion. In some embodiments, the fitment
may be configured to attach the food dispensing mouthpiece
substantially permanently with the container. In various
embodiments, the mouthpiece portion may include a tubular hole and
a holding portion. In some embodiments, the tubular hole may be
positioned longitudinally and configured to route the semi-liquid
material from the container to a holding portion. In various
embodiments, the holding portion may be configured to hold the
semi-liquid material that has been discharged from the
container.
[0007] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in
the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features
will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the
claims.
[0008] A system and/or apparatus for a feeding utensil,
substantially as shown in and/or described in connection with at
least one of the figures, as set forth more completely in the
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example embodiment of a system in
accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0010] FIG. 2a is the first of a series of diagrams of example
embodiments of systems in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter.
[0011] FIG. 2b is the second of a series of diagrams of example
embodiments of systems in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter.
[0012] FIG. 2c is the third of a series of diagrams of example
embodiments of systems in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter.
[0013] FIG. 2d is the fourth of a series of diagrams of example
embodiments of systems in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter.
[0014] FIG. 3a is an isometric diagram of an example embodiment of
an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0015] FIG. 3b is a side-facing diagram of an example embodiment of
an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0016] FIG. 3c is a cross-sectional isometric diagram of an example
embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter.
[0017] FIG. 3d is a cross-sectional side-facing diagram of an
example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter.
[0018] FIG. 4a is a front facing diagram of an example embodiment
of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter.
[0019] FIG. 4b is a side facing diagram of an example embodiment of
an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0020] FIG. 5a is the first of a series of front-facing diagrams of
example embodiments of apparatuses in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter.
[0021] FIG. 5b is the second of a series of front-facing diagrams
of example embodiments of apparatuses in accordance with the
disclosed subject matter.
[0022] FIG. 5c is the third of a series of front-facing diagrams of
example embodiments of apparatuses in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter.
[0023] FIG. 5d is the fourth of a series of front-facing diagrams
of example embodiments of apparatuses in accordance with the
disclosed subject matter.
[0024] FIG. 6a is the first of a series of cut-away diagrams of an
example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter in both an open and closed position.
[0025] FIG. 6b is the second of a series of cut-away diagrams of an
example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter in both an open and closed position.
[0026] FIG. 7a is a top-down diagram of an example embodiment of an
apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0027] FIG. 7b is an isometric diagram of an example embodiment of
an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0028] FIG. 8a is the first of a series of diagrams of an example
embodiment of a system illustrating a screw-off mouthpiece in
accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0029] FIG. 8b is the second of a series of diagrams of an example
embodiment of a system illustrating a screw-off mouthpiece in
accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0030] FIG. 9a is the first of a series of diagrams of an example
embodiment of an apparatus illustrating a cap and safety-sealing
plug in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0031] FIG. 9b is the second of a series of diagrams of an example
embodiment of an apparatus illustrating a cap and safety-sealing
plug in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0032] FIG. 9c is the third of a series of diagrams of an example
embodiment of an apparatus illustrating a cap and safety-sealing
plug in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0033] FIG. 10 is a side-facing diagram of an example embodiment of
an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
[0034] FIG. 11 shows a feeding apparatus and a mouthpiece.
[0035] FIG. 12 shows a spout or neck portion.
[0036] FIG. 13a shows a mouthpiece portion.
[0037] FIG. 13b shows an oval opening in a mouthpiece portion.
[0038] FIG. 14 shows an angular top view of a mouthpiece.
[0039] FIG. 15a is a perspective view of the underside of a
base.
[0040] FIG. 15b is a sectional view of a base and mouthpiece.
[0041] FIG. 16 shows a mouthpiece for attachment to a
container.
[0042] FIG. 17 shows use of a feeding apparatus.
[0043] FIG. 18 shows a first depiction of a mouthpiece with rings
to prevent choking.
[0044] FIG. 19 shows a second depiction of a mouthpiece with rings
to prevent choking.
[0045] FIG. 20 is a front view of a mouthpiece and rings.
[0046] FIG. 21 is a view of a mouthpiece and depicting anti-choking
structure.
[0047] FIG. 22 is a front view of a mouthpiece and depicting
anti-choking structure.
[0048] FIG. 23 is a front view of a mouthpiece and depicting
anti-choking structure.
[0049] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a feeding apparatus with
measurement indicators.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0050] Referring to the Figures in which like numerals indicate
like elements, FIG. 1 is a diagram of an example embodiment of a
system 100 in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one
embodiment, the system 100 may include a container 104, and a
mouthpiece fitment or food dispensing mouthpiece 102.
[0051] In some embodiments, the container 104 may include a
flexible pouch. In various embodiments, the container or flexible
pouch 104 may include two or more pieces of metal foil or thin
plastic sheets sandwiched together along the edges of the container
104. In one embodiment, the edges may be sealed so as to contain a
fluid or semi-liquid edible material within the container 104. In
this context, the term "semi-liquid" may include liquids and
materials capable of flowing like a fluid that are neither fully
solid nor fully liquid (e.g., ground or pureed vegetables or
fruits, etc.). In various embodiments, the edible material may
include, for example, infant food, medicine, sports related food,
soft ice cream, etc.; although, it is understood that the above are
merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject
matter is not limited.
[0052] In various embodiments, the container 104 may be
manufactured by gluing or welding together the edges of the two or
more thin sheets on at least two sides. In one embodiment, a third
or top side may be sealed by gluing or welding the two thin sheets
to a portion of the food dispensing mouthpiece 102, such that a
portion of the food dispensing mouthpiece 102 is substantially
sandwiched in between the two thin sheets. In such an embodiment,
the partially manufactured container 104 may be open, at least
partially, on a fourth side and sealed on the remaining three
sides. In various embodiments, the edible material may be poured or
injected into the container 104 via the fourth open side. In some
embodiments, this fourth side may then be sealed.
[0053] In various embodiments, the container 104 may be
substantially flexible to facilitate squeezing the semi-liquid
edible material out of an opening in the container 104. In such an
embodiment, the opening may be provided by the food dispensing
mouthpiece 102.
[0054] In one embodiment, the food dispensing mouthpiece 102 may be
configured to facilitate the eating of the fluid or semi-liquid
edible material stored within the container 104. In various
embodiments, the food dispensing mouthpiece 102 may include a
concave holding portion 106 and a tubular hole or channel 108. In
some embodiments, the concave holding portion 106 may be configured
to hold the portion of fluid or semi-liquid edible material
discharged from the container 104. In one embodiment, the tubular
hole or channel 108 may be configured to route or transmit the
fluid or semi-liquid edible material from the container 104 to the
concave holding portion 106. In various embodiments, a user or
person may squeeze the flexible container 104, creating pressure
that may force the edible material through the tubular hole or
channel 108 and into the concave holding portion 106.
[0055] FIG. 2 is a series of diagrams of example embodiments of
systems 202, 204, 206, and 208 in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter. FIG. 2 illustrates several possible styles or
embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; although, it is
understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to
which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.
[0056] System 202 illustrates an embodiment in which the food
dispensing mouthpiece 102 is substantially shovel shaped and an
attachment portion of the food dispensing mouthpiece 102 is
partially exposed. In various embodiments, the food dispensing
mouthpiece 102 may include a flat, substantially square end
configured to facilitate scooping any dropped edible material back
into the concave holding portion, as described above. System 204
illustrates an embodiment in which the food dispensing mouthpiece
102 is substantially shovel shaped and an attachable portion of the
food dispensing mouthpiece 102 is substantially flush with the
container 104.
[0057] System 206 illustrates that, in one embodiment, the food
dispensing mouthpiece 102 is substantially spoon shaped. In such an
embodiment, the end of the food dispensing mouthpiece 102 may be
substantially rounded. In various embodiments, the substantially
rounded end of the food dispensing mouthpiece 102 may be configured
to facilitate entry into the mouth.
[0058] System 208 illustrates an embodiment in which the food
dispensing mouthpiece 102 may include a movable mouthpiece 210 and
a fixed fitment 212. In various embodiments, the movable mouthpiece
210 may be removable, as described below. In other embodiments, the
moveable mouthpiece 210 may be moveable between an open position,
in which the edible material may flow to the concave holding
portion, and a closed position, in which the edible material is
substantially prevented from being discharged from the container
104.
[0059] FIG. 3 includes a series of diagrams of an example
embodiment of an apparatus 300 in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter. FIG. 3a is an isometric diagram of an example
embodiment of an apparatus 300 in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter. FIG. 3b is a side-facing diagram of an example
embodiment of the apparatus 300 in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus 300 may include a
fitment 302, a neck portion 304, and a mouthpiece 306.
[0060] In various embodiments, the fitment 302 may be configured to
attach the apparatus substantially permanently with a flexible
pouch containing fluid or semi-liquid edible material. In one
embodiment, the fitment 302 may be ribbed or corrugated to
facilitate attaching the fitment 302 with the container. In some
embodiments, the fitment 302 may be attached by gluing, welding,
bonding, etc. the fitment 302 between two thin sheets of metal or
plastic that comprise the container.
[0061] In one embodiment, the fitment 302 may include a
substantially elongated oval shape, as illustrated by FIG. 3a. In
such an embodiment, the elongated ends of the fitment 302 may be
configured to provide a relatively large amount of surface area to
attach the fitment 302 with the container. In other embodiments,
the fitment 302 may include a substantially circular shape, as
opposed to the elongated oval shape illustrated in FIG. 3. In such
an embodiment, the lack of elongated ends may facilitate the
flexibility of the container and/or reduce costs and materials,
respective to the illustrated elongated embodiment. Although, it is
understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to
which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.
[0062] In one embodiment, the apparatus 300 may include a neck
portion 304. In various embodiments, the neck portion 304 may be
configured to connect the fitment and a mouthpiece portion 306. In
one embodiment, the neck 304 may include a base end coupled with
the fitment 302 and a mouthpiece end coupled with the mouthpiece
306. In various embodiments, the base end may include a
substantially rectangular latitudinal cross-section. In such an
embodiment, the neck 304 may transition to a substantially round
latitudinal cross-section at the mouthpiece end. In various
embodiments, the round latitudinal cross-section may be configured
to be pleasing to the mouth. In some embodiments, the neck portion
304 may be included as part of the mouthpiece 306.
[0063] In one embodiment, the apparatus 300 may include a
mouthpiece 306. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece 306 may be
configured to facilitate eating of the edible material, as
described above. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 306 may
include the neck portion 304. In various embodiments, the
mouthpiece 306 may be moveable, as described below. In one
embodiment, the mouthpiece 306 may be compressible or elongatable,
as described below. In such an embodiment, the mouthpiece 306 may
be configured to be compressed if the mouthpiece 306 is roughly
inserted into a person's mouth or a substantially equivalent action
is performed. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 306 may be
removable, as described below.
[0064] FIG. 3c is a cross-sectional isometric diagram of an example
embodiment of an apparatus 300 in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter. FIG. 3d is a cross-sectional side-facing diagram of
an example embodiment of an apparatus 300 in accordance with the
disclosed subject matter.
[0065] In one embodiment, the fitment 302 may include a hole or
spout 314. In various embodiments, the hole or spout 314 may be
configured to discharge or provide an exit point for the edible
semi-liquid material from the container. In various embodiments,
the fitment 302 may extend towards or into the neck portion 304. In
such an embodiment, this extension may form a spout 314 and may, in
one embodiment, provide an attachment point for the mouthpiece 306
and/or the neck portion 304. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece
306 may move about this spout 314, as described below.
[0066] In one embodiment, the neck 304 may include a channel 312.
In various embodiments, the channel 312 may be configured to
transmit the semi-liquid edible material from the hole or spout 314
to the mouthpiece 306. In various embodiments, the channel 312 may
include a first diameter at the end coupled with the hole or spout
314, and a second relatively smaller diameter as the end coupled
with the mouthpiece 306. In another embodiment, the channel 312 may
include a substantially uniform diameter.
[0067] In one embodiment, the mouthpiece 306 may include a concave
or holding portion 308 and a tubular hole or channel 310. In
various embodiments, the concave or holding portion 308 may be
configured to hold the semi-liquid edible material that has been
discharged (via the hole or spout 314, the neck 304 channel 312,
and the tubular hole or channel 310) from the container. In various
embodiments, the tubular hole or channel 310 may be configured to
transmit or route the semi-liquid edible material from the
container to the concave or holding portion 308. In some
embodiments, the tubular hole or channel 310 may be positioned
longitudinally within the mouthpiece 306.
[0068] In another embodiment, the tubular hole or channel 310 may
include an exit point within the concave or holding portion 308. In
various embodiments, the exit point of the tubular hole or channel
310 may be positioned substantially at the bottom of the concave or
holding portion 308. In yet another embodiment, the exit point of
the tubular hole or channel 310 may be positioned substantially
part way up the side of the concave or holding portion 308 nearest
the neck 304 or fitment 302. Although, it is understood that the
above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed
subject matter is not limited.
[0069] In various embodiments, the exit point of the tubular hole
or channel 310 may include a flap or restraint 316 configured to
reduce the unintentional discharge of the semi-liquid edible
material from the tubular hole or channel 310. In various
embodiments, such a flap or restraint may substantially reduce
spilling of the edible material. In some embodiments, the flap or
restraint may be configured to allow the edible material or a
substantial amount of the edible material into the concave or
holding portion 308 only when a threshold amount of force is
applied; although, it is understood that the above is merely one
illustrative example to which the disclosed subject matter is not
limited.
[0070] In various embodiments, the apparatus 300 may not include a
neck 304 or, in another embodiment, may include a neck without a
channel 312. In such an embodiment, the hole or spout 314 of the
fitment 302 may be coupled directly with the tubular hole or
channel 310 of the mouthpiece 306.
[0071] FIG. 4 includes front and side facing diagrams of an example
embodiment of an apparatus 400 in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus 400 may include a
neck and/or mouthpiece portion (as illustrated) and a fitment
portion (not shown).
[0072] In various embodiments, the neck may include a width
dimension 406. In one illustrative embodiment, the neck's width
dimension 406 may be, for example, one half of an inch (i.e.,
1/2''). In various embodiments, the neck may include a height
dimension 414. In one illustrative embodiment, the neck's height
dimension 414 may be, for example, one half of an inch (i.e.,
1/2''). In one embodiment, the neck may include a base or base end
426. In various embodiments, the neck may include a facing length
dimension 408, from the base 426 of the neck to the portion coupled
with the mouthpiece and oriented such that the concave or holding
portion 308 is facing a viewer. In one illustrative embodiment, the
neck's facing length dimension 408 may be, for example, one half of
an inch (i.e., 1/2''). In various embodiments, the neck may include
a back length dimension 416, from the base 426 of the neck to the
portion coupled with the mouthpiece and oriented such that the
concave or holding portion 308 is facing away from a viewer. In one
illustrative embodiment, the neck's back length dimension 416 may
be, for example, one half of an inch (i.e., 1/2''). Although, it is
understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to
which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.
[0073] FIG. 4 illustrates a substantially shovel shaped embodiment
of the mouthpiece, as described above. In various embodiments, the
mouthpiece may include a width dimension 402. In one illustrative
embodiment, the mouthpiece's width dimension 402 may be, for
example, three quarters of an inch (i.e., 3/4''). In various
embodiments, the mouthpiece may include a length dimension 404. In
one illustrative embodiment, the mouthpiece's length dimension 404
may be, for example, one inch (i.e., 1''). In various embodiments,
the mouthpiece may include a depth or height dimension 410. In one
illustrative embodiment, the mouthpiece's depth or height dimension
410 may be, for example, one third of an inch (i.e., 1/3'').
Although, it is understood that the above are merely a few
illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not
limited.
[0074] In one embodiment, the mouthpiece may include a back portion
420, a front portion 422, and a tip or mouth end 424. In various
embodiments, the back portion 420 and the front portion 422 may be
configured to form the concave or holding portion 308. In some
embodiments, the back portion 420 may be or include a concave shape
of a first depth or radius. The front portion 422 or at least the
outer edges thereof may be or include a concave shape of a second
depth or radius that is less than the depth of or greater than the
radius of the back portion 420. In such an embodiment, the back
portion 420 and front portion 422 may meet at a tip or mouth end
424, and end at the neck. In such an embodiment, the mouthpiece may
form a substantially spoon or shovel shape. In one embodiment, the
tip or mouth end 424 may include substantially squared corners and
result in the mouthpiece including a substantially shovel shape (as
illustrated). In another embodiment, the tip or mouth end 424 may
be substantially rounded and result in the mouthpiece including a
substantially spoon shape. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece
and more specifically, in one embodiment, the tip or mouth end 424
may include substantially smooth or rounded edges.
[0075] FIG. 5 is a series of front-facing diagrams of example
embodiments of apparatuses in accordance with the disclosed subject
matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus 502 may include a fitment
portion 302, a neck portion 304, and a mouthpiece portion 306. In
such an embodiment, the neck portion 304 may be substantially flush
with the widest part of the mouthpiece 306. In one embodiment, the
apparatus 502 may include a single molded piece. In other
embodiments, the apparatus 502 may include a number of pieces or
parts, some of which may be moveable, as described above and
below.
[0076] In one embodiment, the apparatus 504 may include a fitment
portion 302, a neck portion 304, and a mouthpiece portion 306. In
such an embodiment, the neck portion 304 may be curved and
configured to gently blend into the mouthpiece 306. In such an
embodiment, the apparatus 504 may include a shape more pleasing to
the mouth with few or no abrupt edges. Once again, in various
embodiments, the apparatus 504 may include a single molded or
manufactured piece, while in other embodiments, the apparatus 504
may include multiple pieces.
[0077] In one embodiment, the apparatus 506 may include a
mouthpiece 306 and a neck portion 304. In some embodiments, the
mouthpiece 306 may include the neck portion 304. In various
embodiments, the apparatus 506 may be removable from the fitment
(not shown), as described below in reference to FIG. 8. In some
embodiments, the apparatus 506 may include a series of threads
(e.g., internal threads) such that the apparatus 506 is configured
to be screwed off of or on to the fitment. In another embodiment,
the apparatus 506 may be secured via a vertical motion and held in
place by compression. For example, the fitment may include a ring
or bump that is configured to rest inside a receiving groove
internally within the apparatus 506. In such an embodiment, the
apparatus 506 may be held in place by the compression of the neck
304 on the ring or bump. Although, it is understood that the above
are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed
subject matter is not limited.
[0078] In one embodiment, the apparatus 508 may include a fitment
portion 302, a neck portion 304, and a mouthpiece portion 306. In
such an embodiment, the neck portion 304 may include a diameter
that is less than the diameter of the mouthpiece 306. In such an
embodiment, the apparatus 508 may include a single piece, as
described above. In another embodiment, the apparatus 508 may
include a plurality of pieces. In various embodiments, these pieces
may be welded or fixedly coupled together. In another embodiment,
these pieces may be movably or removably coupled together, as
described below. In yet another embodiment, a combination of both
fixedly coupling, movably coupling, and removably coupling may be
used.
[0079] In various embodiments, the mouthpiece 306 and/or neck 304
may include a relatively soft or flexible material, as compared to
the fitment 302. In such an embodiment, the mouthpiece 306 and/or
neck 304 may be configured to reduce the chance of injury to the
individual eating the edible material. In some embodiments, the
mouthpiece 306 and/or neck 304 may be merely covered with the
relatively soft or flexible material and harder core material may
be used to provide the general shape of the apparatuses.
[0080] It is understood that the above are merely a few
illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not
limited. These four example embodiments of FIG. 5 merely show a
variety of design considerations that may be included in some
embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
[0081] FIG. 6 is a series of cut-away diagrams of an example
embodiment of an apparatus 600 in accordance with the disclosed
subject matter in both an open and closed position. FIG. 6a
illustrates an apparatus 600 in an open position. While, FIG. 6b
illustrates the apparatus 600 in a closed position.
[0082] In various embodiments, the apparatus 600 may include a
moveable portion 620 and a non-movable portion 622. In one
embodiment, the non-movable portion 622 may be configured to be
coupled with or included as part of the fitment. In one embodiment,
the moveable portion 620 may be configured to move between a closed
or first position (illustrated by FIG. 6a) and an open or second
position (illustrated by FIG. 6b). In various embodiments, the
moveable portion 620 may be included as part of the neck and/or
mouthpiece.
[0083] In one embodiment, apparatus 600 may include a concave or
holding portion 602, a mouthpiece channel or tubular hole 604, a
neck portion channel 606, and a fitment hole or spout 608. In some
embodiments, the neck portion channel 606 may be included or
considered to be part of the tubular hole 604. In various
embodiments, the edible material may exit the container via the
fitment hole or spout 608.
[0084] As illustrated by FIG. 6a, the apparatus 600 may include a
plug 610. In such an embodiment, the plug 610 may be configured to
substantially block or close the neck portion channel 606. In one
embodiment, the plug 610 may be configured to, when in the closed
or first position, prevent substantially any edible material from
being transmitted between the fitment hole or spout 608 and the
concave or holding portion 602. The flow of the edible material, in
one embodiment, is illustrated by arrow 614. In such an embodiment,
the edible material may flow through the fitment hole or spout 608
and, in one embodiment, partially through the neck channel portion
606 and be stopped by the plug 610.
[0085] As illustrated by FIG. 6b, in one embodiment, the plug 610
may be configured to, when in the open or second position, allow or
not prevent edible material from being transmitted between the
fitment hole or spout 608 and the concave or holding portion 602.
The flow of the edible material, in one embodiment, is illustrated
by arrow 612. In such an embodiment, the edible material may flow
through the fitment hole or spout 608, the neck channel 606, and
the mouthpiece channel or tubular hole 604 and into the concave or
holding portion 602.
[0086] It is understood that the plug 610 is merely one
illustrative example of a technique to prevent the flow of the
edible material to which the disclosed subject matter is not
limited, and that other techniques are within the scope of the
disclosed subject matter. For example, a horizontally sliding
member may be used; although, it is understood that this again is
merely one illustrative example to which the disclosed subject
matter is not limited.
[0087] FIG. 7a is a top-down diagram of an example embodiment of an
apparatus 700 in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In
one embodiment, the apparatus 700 may include a twist-open
mouthpiece 720. In such an embodiment, the twist-open mouthpiece
720 may be configured to be placed into the open position, as
described above, by rotating the mouthpiece a first direction 702.
In one embodiment, the twist-open mouthpiece 720 may configured to
be placed into the closed position, as described above, by rotating
the mouthpiece in a second direction 704 that is opposite the first
direction 702. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece 720 may ride
along a screw-like thread that may be configured to raise or lower
the mouthpiece 720 depending upon the direction of rotation. It is
also understood that the orientation of the first direction 702 and
second direction 704 are merely illustrative and not limiting on
the disclosed subject matter.
[0088] FIG. 7b is an isometric diagram of an example embodiment of
an apparatus 701 in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
In one embodiment, the apparatus 701 may include a pop-open
mouthpiece 721. In such an embodiment, the pop-open mouthpiece 721
may be configured to be placed into the open position, as described
above, by extending or elongating the mouthpiece longitudinally in
a first direction 706. In one embodiment, the pop-open mouthpiece
721 may configured to be placed into the closed position, as
described above, by compressing the mouthpiece longitudinally in a
second direction 708 that is opposite the first direction 706. In
various embodiments, the mouthpiece 721 may include sufficient
frictional force to prevent the mouthpiece 721 from compressing or
extending without the application of substantial external force. As
described above, in one embodiment, the mouthpiece 721 may include
a groove in which a ring of the fitment or neck may rest to prevent
the unintentional movement of the mouthpiece 721, as described
above. Although, it is understood that the above are merely a few
illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not
limited. It is also understood that the orientation of the first
direction 706 and second direction 708 are merely illustrative and
not limiting on the disclosed subject matter.
[0089] FIG. 8 is a series of diagrams of an example embodiment of a
system 800 illustrating a screw-off mouthpiece in accordance with
the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the system 800 may
include the container 104, the fitment 302, and the mouthpiece
306.
[0090] In various embodiments, the container 104 may be
substantially permanently coupled with fitment 302. However, in one
embodiment, the mouthpiece 306 may be removable. In one such
embodiment, the mouthpiece 306 may include a screw-off mouthpiece.
In one embodiment, the fitment 302 may include a thread 802
configured to raise or lower the mouthpiece 306 as the mouthpiece
306 is rotated on or off, respectively. In various embodiments, the
thread 802 may be configured to removably couple the mouthpiece 302
with the fitment 302. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece 306 may
include a female or receiving portion having a notch or receiving
thread internal to the mouthpiece and configured to ride along the
thread 802. In various embodiments, a neck portion may include
either the threaded portion of the fitment 302, or the receiving
portion of the mouthpiece 306.
[0091] In another embodiment, a system may include a pull-off
mouthpiece, as described above in reference to FIGS. 2 and 5. In
such an embodiment, the mouthpiece may be configured to be removed
by pulling the mouthpiece away from the fitment along the
longitudinal or vertical axis of the system. Likewise, in such an
embodiment, the mouthpiece may be configured to be coupled with the
fitment by pushing or shoving the mouthpiece towards the fitment
along the longitudinal or vertical axis of the system. Although, it
is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples
to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.
[0092] In one embodiment, the system 800 may include a removable
tamper-seal 804. In various embodiments, the removable tamper-seal
804 may be configured to, when coupled with the system, block the
channel of a neck portion or spout of the fitment 302, such that
substantially no edible material may flow to the mouthpiece 306. In
such an embodiment, the removable tamper-seal 804 may be configured
to only be removable once the mouthpiece 306 has been uncoupled
from the fitment 302. For example, in one embodiment, the
mouthpiece 306 may be coupled, during manufacture and at the time
of sale, with the fitment 302 such that the tamper-seal 804 is not
accessible or removable. In such an embodiment, a user may need to
remove the mouthpiece 306 in order to remove the tamper-seal 804
and, therefore, render the system 800 useable, in that the edible
material may be discharged. Such a user may wish to re-couple the
mouthpiece 306 with the fitment 302 in order for the edible
material to be discharged into the mouthpiece 306.
[0093] In one embodiment, the tamper-seal 804 may include a tab or
indicator 806 that may be visible, if the tamper-seal 804 has not
been removed, without removing the mouthpiece 306. In such an
embodiment, a user may look for the tab or indicator 806 to
determine if the tamper-seal 804 is in place before purchasing the
system 800. In some embodiments, the tamper-seal 804 may be
configured to provide a user with an assurance that the edible
material has not been tampered with or altered since the system 800
was manufactured.
[0094] FIG. 9 is a series of diagrams of an example embodiment of
an apparatus 900 illustrating a cap 902 and safety-sealing plug 906
in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment,
the apparatus 900 may include a fitment 302, a neck portion 304, a
mouthpiece 306, and a removable cap 902. In one embodiment, the
mouthpiece 306 may include a channel or tubular hole 310 configured
to transmit or route edible material from the container to the
concave or holding portion of the mouthpiece 302, as described
above.
[0095] In one embodiment, the removable cap 902 may be configured
to cover or fit over and protect the mouthpiece 306 and/or neck
portion 304 of the apparatus 900. In various embodiments, the
removable cap 902 may be substantially transparent or
semi-transparent and configured to allow a person to view the
mouthpiece within.
[0096] In one embodiment, the apparatus 900 may also include a
plastic wrap 904. In various embodiments, the plastic wrap 904 may
be configured to cover or substantially seal the cap 902, and in
turn the mouthpiece 306 and/or neck portion 304. In another
embodiment, in which the apparatus 900 does not include a cap 902,
the plastic wrap 904 may be configured to directly cover or
substantially seal the mouthpiece 306 and/or neck portion 304. In
some embodiments, the plastic wrap 904 may be configured to
indicate tampering or prior use of the apparatus 900. In one
embodiment, the plastic wrap 904 may include a pull-tab 905
configured to facilitate the unwrapping and removal of the plastic
wrap 904 from the apparatus 900. In various embodiments, the wrap
904 may include substances or materials other than plastic (e.g.,
biodegradable material, etc.) and it is understood that the
disclosed subject matter is not limited to the plastic illustrative
example.
[0097] In one embodiment, the removable cap 902 may include a plug
906 or other tamper-seal mechanism configured to block the channel
or tubular hole 310, such that substantially no edible material may
be discharged into the mouthpiece 302. In various embodiments, the
plug 906 may be semi-permanently sealed with the mouthpiece 306. In
such an embodiment, the plug 306 may be configured to generally
indicate tampering with the apparatus 900 and more specifically, in
one embodiment, whether or not the cap 902 has been removed since
manufacture.
[0098] In one embodiment, the plug 906 may be semi-permanently
coupled with the mouthpiece 306 via a seal or other breakable
coupling mechanism. In various embodiments, the plug 606 may be
configured such that the removal of the cap 902 may break the seal
coupling the plug 606 with the mouthpiece 306. In some embodiments,
the plug may be coupled with the cap 902 such that removal of the
cap 902 may remove the plug 606 from the channel or tubular hole
310 and allow the discharge or flow of the semi-liquid edible
material from the container to the mouthpiece 306. In such an
embodiment, the cap 602 may be substantially transparent or
semi-transparent to facilitate the determination by a person or
otherwise of whether or not the seal is broken.
[0099] In one embodiment, the apparatus 900 or the removable cap
902 may include a leash 908. In such an embodiment, the removable
cap 902 may be coupled, via the leash 908, with the neck portion
304 or the fitment 302. In one embodiment, the leach may be coupled
with the fitment 302 at an anchor point 310. In various
embodiments, the leash 908 may be configured to keep the removable
cap 902 attached with the apparatus 900 after or when the removable
cap 902 has been removed from the mouthpiece 306. In some
embodiments, this may prevent or substantially reduce the chance of
the removable cap 902 becoming a choking hazard, especially for
small children or infants for example.
[0100] FIG. 10 is a side-facing diagram of an example embodiment of
an apparatus 1000 in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.
In one embodiment, the apparatus 1000 may include a fitment 302, a
neck portion 304, and a mouthpiece 306. In one embodiment, the
mouthpiece 306 may include a safety indicator or tamper-proofing
portion 1002 (shown in a broken state). In various embodiments, the
tamper-proofing portion 1002 may include a plurality of tabs or
posts, as illustrated by FIG. 10; although, it is understood that
the above is merely one illustrative example to which the disclosed
subject matter is not limited.
[0101] In one embodiment, tamper-proofing portion 1002 may be
configured to indicate whether or not the mouthpiece 302 has been
placed in an open position, as described above (e.g., apparatus 600
in FIG. 6b), since the apparatus 1000 has been manufactured. In
various embodiments, the tamper-proofing portion 1002 may be
configured to be broken when the mouthpiece is first (after
manufacture) placed in the open position.
[0102] In one illustrative embodiment, the tamper-proofing portion
1002 may include a plurality of breakable posts coupling a movable
portion 1010 of the mouthpiece 306 with a non-movable portion 1012.
In various embodiments, the non-movable portion 1012 may be
included as part of the mouthpiece 306 or, in one embodiment, the
neck portion 304. In one embodiment, when the mouthpiece 306 is
first moved to the open position, via illustrated direction of
movement 1004, the plurality of tabs in the tamper-proofing portion
1002 may attempt to move with the moveable portion 1010 of the
mouthpiece 306. However, in one embodiment, the bottom half of the
tabs may be prevented from moving due to being coupled with the
non-movable portion 1012. In various embodiments, the non-moveable
portion 1012 may be incapable of substantial movement due to
blocking tab 1006. In such an embodiment, as more force is applied
to the mouthpiece 306 along direction 1004, the plurality of posts
of the tamper-proofing portion 1002 may be configured to break and
allow the movable portion 1010 to freely rotate. In various
embodiments, the tamper-proofing portion 1002 may be configured to
be substantially non-repairable. In such an embodiment, the
tamper-proofing portion 1002 may provide an indication of whether
or not the mouthpiece 306 was ever opened (after manufacture). It
is understood that the above is merely one illustrative example to
which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.
[0103] In another embodiment, a predetermined amount or dose of
material in the container 104 can be provided for consumption. The
administration of a predetermined dose of material can be
accomplished by using a container (e.g., a pouch) having a specific
predetermined size that is designed to hold a predetermined amount,
or dose, of material. Various containers 104 having a variety of
different sizes to accommodate different predetermined amounts of
food/puree/liquid/medicine can be used with the system 100. The
container would be designed and specified for a one-time use
application, so that the user would receive the predetermined
amount of material contained in the container 104 during the single
use. For example, if a person who had gastric bypass surgery were
to gradually resume eating, a container holding a predetermined
amount of material (e.g., one, two, or three ounces of pureed food)
could be used with the system 100, so that the person could consume
a specific known quantity of food without having to "measure" on
their own food. The predetermined amount of material could range
from micrograms (e.g., an amount of medicine mixed with a
predetermined amount of fluid or solid material in the container)
up to several ounces, or even pounds of material.
[0104] A measured dose also can be provided by administering a
measured quantity of material from the container 104 to the spoon
of the mouthpiece. For example, as shown in FIG. 24, the spoon may
include indicia showing a measured quantity of liquid, semi-liquid,
or solid material in the spoon. Thus, a user may squeeze the
container to administer a known quantity of material into the
spoon, as determined by one of the indicia in the spoon.
[0105] In another embodiment the mouthpiece of the feeding
apparatus can be sealed to a pouch or screwed onto a container to
form a single feeding device, as shown in FIG. 11. As shown in
FIGS. 12 and 13, the system 100 can include spout or neck portion
1342 (shown in FIG. 12) and a mouthpiece portion (shown in FIG.
13). In FIG. 12, the spout 1342 can be cylindrical with a threaded
portion 1221 at its uppermost portion. There may also be additional
projections 1222 and 1223 from the middle to lower portion of the
cylinder to facilitate handling and sealing by the filling and
processing machinery. As shown in FIG. 13, the mouthpiece portion
can incorporate a trapezoid shaped cone 1331, a mouthguard 1332
with special contours 1333, and a skirt 1334. As seen in FIG. 13
the trapezoid shaped cone 1331 has a frustoconical shape. The
portion of the mouthpiece that is inserted into the mouth of the
consumer can be the trapezoid shaped cone 1331. The trapezoid
shaped cone 1331 element of the mouthpiece can include, at the top
and narrow end 1340, circular openings 1335. There may be multiple
openings as shown in FIG. 13 or a single oval opening 1336 that is
adequately sized to allow sufficient flow of food through the
opening.
[0106] FIG. 14 shows a slightly angular top view of the mouthpiece.
Extending from the trapezoid shaped cone, the base 1341 can expands
out to create the mouthguard 1441, which includes comfortable
contours 1442 and 1443 to allow the trapezoid shaped cone to be
inserted into the mouth and the lips of the consumer to rest
comfortably against the contours of the mouthguard. Additionally,
the expanded base and contours can act as a guard to prevent the
trapezoid shaped cone of the mouthpiece from being inserted too
deeply into the mouth.
[0107] As shown in FIG. 15, beyond the mouthguard, the base
continues and hangs beyond the contours to create a skirt 1444,
which allows the lower portion of the spout to be hidden from view
when the spout and mouthpiece are securely twisted and fully
engaged. On the inside of the mouthpiece, threading grooves 1551
and 1552 can be incorporated at the narrow portion where the spout
engages the mouthpiece and on the underside of the skirt,
respectively, so as to allow the feeding apparatus to be attached
to the spout or food containers that have similar size openings and
screw cap actions. As shown in FIG. 16, the feeding apparatus can
be created when the mouthpiece is securely screwed onto the spout.
The feeding apparatus then can be attached to a pouch using
airtight and watertight seams or screwed onto a container with
similar size opening and screwing action.
[0108] When viewed in its entirety, as shown in FIG. 17, the
feeding apparatus attached to the pouch or container is a free
standing product that may be manipulated with one hand. For
example, to feed an infant, the system of apparatus and the
container can be elevated to the mouth of the consumer, such that
the feeding apparatus is inserted into the mouth of the consumer,
at which point pressure can be applied to the pouch or food
container. Then food can flow from the pouch or food container and
through the feeding device into the consumer's mouth. Thus, the
need for a separate food container and utensil can be eliminated,
and the mess associated with traditional feeding can be minimized.
Advantageously, the time necessary to feed the infant, toddler, or
other individual who requires assistance is reduced and the feeding
process is made convenient by allowing the caretaker to feed almost
anywhere.
[0109] FIGS. 18-23 show additional views of implementations of the
mouthpiece. For example, in the implementation shown in FIGS. 18-23
one or more rings 1350 can be included at the base of the
mouthpiece to prevent choking if the mouthpiece is swallowed by a
consumer.
[0110] While certain features of the described implementations have
been illustrated as described herein, many modifications,
substitutions, changes and equivalents will now occur to those
skilled in the art. For example, a thin, flexible membrane can be
included between the neck portion and the mouthpiece portion or
between the container and the neck portion. The membrane may all
material to pass from the container out through the mouthpiece when
a certain amount of force is applied to the walls of the container,
but otherwise the membrane may prevent or inhibit the passage of
material from the container out through the mouthpiece to avoid
spills of the material. It is, therefore, to be understood that the
appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and
changes as fall within the scope of the embodiments.
* * * * *