U.S. patent application number 16/082822 was filed with the patent office on 2019-05-02 for disposable shot glass with peel-off lid.
The applicant listed for this patent is RIPSHOT ENTERPRISES CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Kieran HOOEY, Courtland LIVESLEY-JAMES.
Application Number | 20190127114 16/082822 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 59789952 |
Filed Date | 2019-05-02 |
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00000.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00001.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00002.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00003.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00004.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00005.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00006.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00007.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00008.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00009.png)
![](/patent/app/20190127114/US20190127114A1-20190502-D00010.png)
View All Diagrams
United States Patent
Application |
20190127114 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LIVESLEY-JAMES; Courtland ;
et al. |
May 2, 2019 |
DISPOSABLE SHOT GLASS WITH PEEL-OFF LID
Abstract
System and process for creation of a single-serve shot-glass
peel-off lid.
Inventors: |
LIVESLEY-JAMES; Courtland;
(Toronto, CA) ; HOOEY; Kieran; (Ottawa,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
RIPSHOT ENTERPRISES CORPORATION |
Toronto |
|
CA |
|
|
Family ID: |
59789952 |
Appl. No.: |
16/082822 |
Filed: |
March 9, 2017 |
PCT Filed: |
March 9, 2017 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/CA2017/050313 |
371 Date: |
September 6, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62306438 |
Mar 10, 2016 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 1/265 20130101;
B65D 77/2024 20130101; B65D 85/72 20130101; B65D 2221/00 20130101;
B65D 1/40 20130101; B65D 17/00 20130101; B65D 17/502 20130101; B65D
43/02 20130101; B65B 3/022 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B65D 17/50 20060101
B65D017/50; B65D 1/26 20060101 B65D001/26; B65B 3/02 20060101
B65B003/02; B65D 85/72 20060101 B65D085/72 |
Claims
1. A process for manufacturing the single-serve shot-glass system
comprising: forming molds for the lid material and shot-glasses;
creating shot-glasses from the molds and slicing lids from the lid
materials; dispensing alcohol into the shot-glasses; and sealing
the shot-glasses with a peel-off lid and an adhesive; forming a
mold for the lid attachment and creating it; and applying the lip
attachment to the shot glass, wherein the lip attachment is added
to the already filled and sealed shot glass with a peel-off
lid.
2. The process of claim 1, wherein the lip attachment creates a
flared shaft that curves outward from bottom to top such that the
opening at a brim of the glass may have a greater circumference
than the circumference of a base of the lip attachment, the brim
having a flat top edge to facilitate adhesion of the peel-off
lid.
3. A single-serve, shot-glass system comprising: a shot-glass
containing alcoholic beverage, the shot-glass having a peel-off lid
to seal the shot-glass and preserve the alcoholic beverage; an
alcoholic beverage; and a lip attachment for the already filled and
sealed shot glass with a peel-off lid having a flared shaft
integrated with a curved brim, the brim having a flat top edge to
facilitate adhesion of the peel-off lid, the lip attachment having
a smooth curvature to facilitate drinking.
4. The shot-glass system of claim 3, wherein the flared shaft
curves outward from bottom to top such that the opening at the brim
may have a greater circumference than the circumference of the base
of the lip attachment.
5.-9. (canceled)
10. A shot-glass system comprising a container with a lip
attachment having a flared shaft and peel-able lid the flared shaft
having a curvature to facilitate drinking, wherein the flared shaft
curves outward from bottom to top such that the opening at the brim
may have a greater circumference than the circumference of the base
of the lip attachment, the brim having a flat top edge.
11-20. (canceled)
21. The process of claim 1 wherein the lip attachment has a smooth
curvature that curves outward from bottom to top to facilitate
drinking.
22. The process of claim 1 wherein the lip attachment has a smooth
curvature that integrates with the brim to generate a rounded brim,
the rounded brim having a flat top portion.
23. The process of claim 1 wherein the alcohol is dispensed to a
fill line in the glass, the fill line being below the lip
attachment.
24. The process of claim 1 wherein lip attachment has a flared
shaft, wherein the flat top edge extends away from an outer edge of
the flared shaft.
25. The system of claim 3 wherein the lip attachment has a smooth
curvature that integrates with the curved brim.
26. The system of claim 3 wherein the alcohol is contained to a
fill line in the glass, the fill line being below the lip
attachment.
27. The system of claim 3 wherein the flat top edge extends away
from an outer edge of the flared shaft.
28. The system of claim 3, wherein the flat top edge facilitates
adhesion of a peel-off lid for the container.
29. The system of claim 10 wherein the lip attachment has a smooth
curvature that integrates with the brim to define a curved
brim.
30. The system of claim 10 wherein alcohol is contained to a fill
line in the glass, the fill line being below the lip
attachment.
31. The system of claim 10 wherein the flat top edge extends away
from an outer edge of the flared shaft.
32. The system of claim 10 wherein the lip attachment defines a
curved brim that integrates with the brim, the curved brim having a
height greater than the brim.
33. The system of claim 10 wherein the lip attachment defines a
curved brim between the flared shaft and the brim, the curved brim
having a smooth curvature.
34. The system of claim 10 wherein the lip attachment defines a
curved brim between the flared shaft and the brim, the curved brim
and the flared shaft defining an s shaped smooth curvature.
35. The system of claim 10, wherein the flat top edge facilitates
adhesion of a peel-off lid for the container.
Description
FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a disposable
shot-glass.
INTRODUCTION
[0002] Single-serve cups may contain food and beverages. Existing
single-serve cups may not be ideal vessels from which to drink due
to an abrasive brim. Single-serve cups may not be optimized to
contain alcoholic beverages for long periods of time and may be
subject to deterioration over time. Single-serve cups may not be
optimized to contain alcoholic beverages since the method of
adhesion used in affixing a lid to the cup may be subject to
erosion from the alcohol. Single-serve cups may not be optimized to
contain alcoholic beverages in a form-factor as small as a
shot-glass since the level of adhesion between a lid and the cup
may result in spillage from the cup during removal of the lid. Some
lids may drastically raise the price of the single-serve,
shot-glass, making it commercially inefficient to produce.
SUMMARY
[0003] In accordance with one aspect, there is provided a
single-serve, shot-glass system made up of a shot-glass for
containing alcoholic beverage, the shot-glass having a curved brim
to enhance users' drinking experience and prevent spilling of the
alcoholic beverage. The shot-glass may also have a flared shaft to
enhance users' drinking experience, and a peel-off lid to seal the
system and preserve the alcohol.
[0004] In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a
shot-glass with a curved brim as part of the single-serve
shot-glass system, the brim comprising a curvature optimized to
allow ease of drinking and spill prevention, and to allow secure
adhesion of a peel-off lid in a manner that still allows the
peel-off lid to be removed with ease. The curved brim may integrate
with a flared shaft to enhance users' drinking experience.
[0005] In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a
process for manufacturing the single-serve shot-glass system
comprising: forming molds for the lid material, shot-glasses
including the lip, creating shot-glasses from the molds, and
slicing lids from the lid materials, dispensing alcohol into the
shot-glasses, sealing the shot-glasses with a peel-off lid and a
sealant, and adding the lip mold to the shot glass.
[0006] Before explaining at least one embodiment in detail, it is
to be understood that the embodiments are not limited in
application to the details of construction and to the arrangements
of the components set forth in the following description or
illustrated in the drawings. Also, it is to be understood that the
phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of
description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0007] Many further features and combinations thereof concerning
embodiments described herein will appear to those skilled in the
art following a reading of the instant disclosure.
DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0008] In the figures, embodiments are illustrated by way of
example. It is to be expressly understood that the description and
figures are only for the purpose of illustration and as an aid to
understanding.
[0009] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only,
with reference to the attached figures, wherein in the figures:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a view of an example single-serve, shot-glass
system;
[0011] FIG. 2A is a cross-section of an example curved brim for a
single-serve, shot-glass system;
[0012] FIG. 2B is a view of an example shot-glass and curved
brim;
[0013] FIG. 2C is a view of an example shot-glass with flared shaft
resting upon a user's lip;
[0014] FIG. 2D is a cross-section of an example curved brim and
flared shaft for a single-serve, shot-glass system;
[0015] FIG. 2E is a view of an example single-serve, shot-glass
system;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a view of an example peel-off lid;
[0017] FIG. 4 shows a front view of the container.
[0018] FIG. 5 shows a front view of the container with the lid.
[0019] FIG. 6 shows a side view of the container.
[0020] FIG. 7 shows a top down view of the inside of the
container.
[0021] FIG. 8 shows a bottom up view of the outside of the
container.
[0022] FIG. 9 shows a bottom cross-cut of the container of FIG.
4.
[0023] FIG. 10 shows a flow chart of a process for manufacturing a
single-serve, shot-glass system;
[0024] FIG. 11 shows a flow chart of a process for manufacturing a
single-serve, shot-glass system;
[0025] FIG. 12 shows a view of a solid plastic from for producing
peel-off lids for a single-serve, shot-glass system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0026] Embodiments of methods, systems, and apparatus are described
through reference to the drawings.
[0027] The following discussion provides many example embodiments
of the inventive subject matter. Although each embodiment
represents a single combination of inventive elements, the
inventive subject matter is considered to include all possible
combinations of the disclosed elements. Thus if one embodiment
comprises elements A, B, and C, and a second embodiment comprises
elements B and D, then the inventive subject matter is also
considered to include other remaining combinations of A, B, C, or
D, even if not explicitly disclosed.
[0028] Embodiments described herein relate to a disposable
shot-glass having a peel-off lid wherein the shot glass has a
flared shaft and curved brim for facilitating drinking and
preventing spilling from the shot-glass. A single-serve, shot-glass
of alcohol with a flared shaft, curved brim and peel-off lid may
provide consumers with simplicity, sanitation, insurance of being
tamper-proof, and ease-of-use. Embodiments described herein may
help give consumers of alcohol an opportunity to purchase smaller
quantities of alcohol that are offered in a useful, sanitary and
enjoyable-to-drink container. Embodiments described herein may help
to serve alcohol beverages to consumers efficiently without
requiring mixing of the beverage, cleaning of individual shot
glasses and pouring the mixed beverage into individual shot glasses
in response individual order requests from the consumers. The
shot-glass containing alcohol may be easy and enjoyable to drink
and cost-effective to produce.
[0029] Embodiments described herein relate to a disposable
shot-glass having a peel-off lid wherein the shot glass has a lip
attached with a flared shaft and curved brim for facilitating
drinking and preventing spilling from the shot-glass. A
single-serve, shot-glass of alcohol having a lip attached with a
flared shaft, curved brim and peel-off lid may provide consumers
with simplicity, sanitation, insurance of being tamper-proof, and
ease-of-use. Embodiments described herein may help give consumers
of alcohol an opportunity to purchase smaller quantities of alcohol
that are offered in a useful, sanitary and enjoyable-to-drink
container. Embodiments described herein may help to serve alcohol
beverages to consumers efficiently without requiring mixing of the
beverage, cleaning of individual shot glasses and pouring the mixed
beverage into individual shot glasses in response individual order
requests from the consumers. The shot-glass containing alcohol may
be easy and enjoyable to drink and cost-effective to produce.
[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a single-serve shot-glass system 90 of a
shot-glass 100 containing a specified volume of alcoholic beverage
200, sealed by a peel-off lid 120 with a tab 122 according to some
embodiments. The shot-glass 100 may be shaped with a flared shaft
150 that curves outward from bottom to top such that the opening at
the brim 140 may have a greater circumference than the
circumference of the base 160 of the shot-glass 100. The flared
shaft 150 may be shaped to receive a user's 300 lip therein. The
curvature may be smooth to provide comfort to the user 300. In some
embodiments, the shot-glass 100 has a lip attached with a flared
shaft 150 that curves outward from bottom to top such that the
opening at the brim 140.
[0031] According to some embodiments, the shot-glass 100 may
contain approximately 100 mL and in other examples the shot-glass
100 may contain approximately 60 mL as a typical 1.5 ounce shot
(approximately 45 mL). In addition to the curved brim 140, there
may be a sufficient amount of empty space between the liquid
alcohol 200 and the brim 140 to help prevent spilling when the
shot-glass 100 is opened. The shot-glass 100 may be formed from
HDPE (high density polyethylene) or PET (polyethylene
terephthalate) plastic in some example embodiments in order to
ensure that the alcohol 200 is preserved and does not break down
the material of the shot-glass 100. The material may also enable
the printing of colors and advertisements on the shot-glass
100.
[0032] In some embodiments a coating (e.g. epoxy) may be applied to
the inside of the shot-glass 100 in order to strengthen the
shot-glass 100 and extend the life of the alcohol 200. Such a
coating may also improve the temperature range of the shot-glass
100 by allowing it to remain sturdy and intact at temperatures
warmer than -50 degrees Celsius.
[0033] FIGS. 2A and 2D are cross-sections of the brim 140 of the
shot-glass 100 according to some embodiments. The curved brim 140
may help to prevent alcoholic beverages 200 from spilling from the
shot-glass when the lid 120 has been removed. The curved brim 140
may have or integrate with a flared shaft 150 as shown. FIG. 2B
demonstrates the manner in which the brim 140 may prevent the
spilling of alcohol 200 when the shot-glass 100 is tilted up to a
specified angle.
[0034] In some embodiments, the brim 140 may feature a flat top
edge of between 1-8 mm, which may be desirable in order to provide
a platform upon which an adhesive may seal the lid 120 to the
shot-glass brim 140. In some embodiments the size of the brim 140
may be adjusted according to the percentage of alcohol 200 in the
single-serve shot-glass system 90. The flat edge may extend away
from the outer edge of the curved brim 140 so that a rounded outer
edge provides comfort to the user 300.
[0035] The curved brim 140 also may provide users 300 with an ideal
drinking experience as the brim 140 may not create discomfort when
users 300 consume alcoholic beverages 200 from the shot-glass
100.
[0036] FIGS. 2C and 2E illustrate a flared shaft 150 of the
shot-glass 100 according to some embodiments. The flared shaft 150
may provide a place for users' 300 lips to rest while drinking from
the shot-glass 100. The flared shaft 150 may enhance users' 300
drinking experience by allowing the alcoholic beverage 200 to flow
smoothly as users 300 drink. The flared shaft 150 may also enhance
users' 300 drinking experience by helping the shot-glass 100 to
rest at an optimal location on users' 300 lips (without sliding up
or down) such that the alcoholic beverage 200 may flow optimally
into users' 300 mouths. In some embodiments the flared shaft 150
may flare outward at an approximately 180-250 degree angle from the
bottom shaft 151 of the shot-glass 100. In another aspect, the
flared shaft 150 may progressively flare out from the bottom shaft
at an increasing angle until arriving at the curved brim 140.
[0037] FIG. 3 illustrates a peel-off lid 120 for use with a
single-serve shot glass 100 according to some embodiments. In some
embodiments the peel-off lid 120 may be made of metal foil or
plastic. In some embodiments, the tab 122 of the lid 120 may have
surface area sufficient to enable a user 300 to grasp the tab with
thumb and index finger.
[0038] In some embodiments, the peel-off lid 120 may be comprised
of HDPE plastic, PET plastic, metallic foil or other materials that
preserve the contents of the shot-glass 100 and/or allow for
printing colors and advertisements on the lid 120.
[0039] In some embodiments the peel-off lid 120 may be affixed to
the shot-glass 100 with a sealant 130 that is both resistant to
alcohol and yet not so strong that removing the lid 120 would
likely cause the shot-glass 100 to spill. According to some
embodiments, the lid 120 may have sufficient structural integrity
such that a user 300 may peel of the lid 120 in its entirety
without tearing the lid 120 itself in order to avoid an incomplete
removal.
[0040] FIG. 10 describes an exemplary process for assembling the
shot-glass system 90 according to some embodiments. At step 401, a
mold is created for molding the shot-glass 100. This mold may be
made from aluminum or other solid material according to specified
requirements. For example, the mold may have a rounded lip for
smooth drinking and the company logo and a recyclable symbol may be
engraved in the container. The mold may have a flared shaft to
provide comfort for users that drink from the shot-glasses 100 made
from the mold.
[0041] At step 402, shot-glasses 100 are formed using
vacuum-forming or other similar techniques by which a mold is used
to form materials. The shot-glasses 100 may be formed with a curved
brim 140 and flared shaft 150.
[0042] At step 403, an epoxy resin is added to the shot-glass
100.
[0043] At step 404, a mold is created for a semi-cylindrical, solid
tube of plastic or foil. A solid piece of plastic is molded into
the shape of a cylinder with a smaller curved protrusion running
along its length (as in FIG. 12). The curved protrusion will later
form the tab of the lid.
[0044] For example, an aluminum mold specific to the requirements
may be used.
[0045] A mold for the lid is created so the plastic cutter will be
symmetrical and uniform.
[0046] Once the mold is complete for the containers, the containers
are created using vacuum forming. Large numbers can be handled
quickly and efficiently. Many printing and advertising techniques
are available to get the desired look and colour and this is all
handled by the packager. HDPE and PET offer the packager the
ability to add a wide array of colours and designs. At this time,
an epoxy resin would be added.
[0047] At step 405, a cutting apparatus is used to slice thin
layers (lids 120) from the semi-cylindrical, solid tube of plastic.
The plastic cutter is used to slice the required amount of lids
from a thin slice of plastic. The lids are also subject to colour
and advertising. The lids and containers are sent to a factory that
meets Food and Drug Administration standards (safety, protocol,
sanitation) for the packaging of alcohol.
[0048] At step 406, advertising and/or coloration is applied to the
lids.
[0049] At step 407, the shot-glasses 100 are filled with a
specified amount of alcohol 200 using a machine programmed with
fill parameters for controlling the specified amount. In some
embodiments, a fill and seal machine may measure and dispense the
alcohol 200 into the shot-glasses 100 according to the specified
amount. The specified amount may leave space from the top of the
brim 140. In other embodiments, the shot-glasses 100 may be filled
manually via a syringe.
[0050] At step 408, adhesive is applied to the shot-glass brim.
[0051] At step 409, the lid 120 is placed on the brim 140 and held
securely until the lid 120 has bonded to the shot-glass 100,
forming the single-serve shot-glass system 90. In some embodiments,
a fill and seal machine may apply heat or pressure to bond the lid
120 to the shot glass.
[0052] Once at the factory, the containers may be filled with
exactly one ounce of the alcohol ordered, typically by a fill and
seal machine that automatically measures the precise amount of
alcohol. This can also be done manually using syringes that are
calibrated to exactly one ounce but the process is time consuming.
In some embodiments, a sealant/adhesive is placed on the lid 120 as
well as on wide top of the container by a machine or carefully
brushed on in a uniform fashion manually. While the sealant is
still wet, the plastic lid is placed on top of the container. A
strong force holds and pushes the lid together until the sealant
has dried. In other embodiments, a fill and seal machine places the
lid 120 that has been previously sprayed with a sealant 130 on the
shot glass 100. It uses heat to activate the sealant and seal the
lid 120 to the shot glass 100.
[0053] FIG. 11 describes another exemplary process for assembling
the shot-glass system 90 according to some embodiments. At step
1102, a mold is created for molding the shot-glass 100. This mold
may be made from aluminum or other solid material according to
specified requirements. For example, the mold may have a rounded
lip for smooth drinking and the company logo and a recyclable
symbol may be engraved in the container. The mold may have a flared
shaft to provide comfort for users that drink from the shot-glasses
100 made from the mold.
[0054] At step 1104, shot-glasses 100 are formed using
vacuum-forming or other similar techniques by which a mold is used
to form materials. The shot-glasses 100 may be formed with a curved
brim 140 and flared shaft 150.
[0055] At step 1106, an epoxy resin is added to the shot-glass
100.
[0056] At step 1108, a mold is created for a semi-cylindrical,
solid tube of plastic or foil. A solid piece of plastic is molded
into the shape of a cylinder with a smaller curved protrusion
running along its length (as in FIG. 12). The curved protrusion
will later form the tab of the lid.
[0057] For example, an aluminum mold specific to the requirements
may be used. A mold for the lid is created so the plastic cutter
will be symmetrical and uniform. Once the mold is complete for the
containers, the containers are created using vacuum forming. Large
numbers can be handled quickly and efficiently. Many printing and
advertising techniques are available to get the desired look and
colour and this is all handled by the packager. HDPE and PET offer
the packager the ability to add a wide array of colours and
designs. At this time, an epoxy resin would be added.
[0058] At step 1110, a cutting apparatus is used to slice thin
layers (lids 120) from the semi-cylindrical, solid tube of plastic.
The plastic cutter is used to slice the required amount of lids
from a thin slice of plastic. The lids are also subject to colour
and advertising. The lids and containers are sent to a factory that
meets Food and Drug Administration standards (safety, protocol,
sanitation) for the packaging of alcohol.
[0059] At step 1112, a sealant or adhesive is applied to the lid
120. A sealant or adhesive 130 can be placed on the lid 120 and/or
the curved brim 140 of the shot-glass 100, for example. In some
embodiments, a machine may apply the adhesive 130. In other
embodiments, the adhesive may be applied manually.
[0060] At step 1114, advertising and/or coloration is applied to
the lids.
[0061] At step 1116, the shot-glasses 100 are filled with a
specified amount of alcohol 200. In some embodiments, a fill and
seal machine may measure and dispense the alcohol 200 into the
shot-glasses 100 according to the specified amount. The specified
amount may leave space from the top of the brim 140. In other
embodiments, the shot-glasses 100 may be filled manually via a
syringe.
[0062] At step 1118, the lid 120 is placed on the brim 140 and held
securely until the lid 120 has bonded to the shot-glass 100,
forming the single-serve shot-glass system 90. In some embodiments,
a fill and seal machine may apply heat or pressure to bond the lid
120 to the shot glass.
[0063] Once at the factory, the containers may be filled with
exactly one ounce of the alcohol ordered, typically by a fill and
seal machine that automatically measures the precise amount of
alcohol. This can also be done manually using syringes that are
calibrated to exactly one ounce but the process is time consuming.
A sealant/adhesive is placed on the lid 120 as well as on wide top
of the container by a machine or carefully brushed on in a uniform
fashion manually. While the sealant is still wet, the plastic lid
is placed on top of the container. A strong force holds and pushes
the lid together until the sealant has dried. In other embodiments,
a fill and seal machine places the lid 120 that has been previously
sprayed with a sealant 130 on the shot glass 100. It uses heat to
activate the sealant and seal the lid 120 to the shot glass
100.
[0064] At step 1102, a mold is created for molding the shot-glass
100 this may also involve a mold to be created for the lip
attachment. A fill and sealing machine may not be able to be used
if the lip is already included in the mold for the shot glass 100,
for example. Using a shot glass 100 with a lip in a fill and seal
machine can cause the plastic shot glass 100 to be destroyed by the
improper balance of force in the machine. The lip attachment is
formed. The lip attachment is added to the already filled and
sealed shot glass with a peelable lid. This can be done manually or
by a fill and seal machine. The filled and sealed shot glasses with
peelable lids can be tested to ensure there are no leakages. Any
air bubbles in the seal 130 between the lid 120 and the shot glass
100 would cause a leak. Moreover, if the lid 120 has a small hole
in it, this will cause leaks as well.
[0065] At step 1120, the shot glasses with peelable lids are
packaged in units (ex: 8, 16, 40) and are then ready to be shipped
by an alcohol distributor to a licensed seller.
[0066] FIG. 12 illustrates the solid plastic shape from which lids
120 for the single-serve shot-glass system 90 are cut according to
some embodiments.
[0067] Embodiments described herein facilitate individual-serving
alcohol consumption. In the example embodiment, by simply pulling
the lid's tab 122, the adhesive/sealant 130 releases and the lid
120 can easily be ripped off of the shot-glass 100. Once the lid is
removed, the alcohol 200 can be consumed. If drinking with a group
of people, each person can bring the shot-glass system 90 together
to "cheers" each other, rip off the lids 120 from the shot-glasses
100 and then consume the alcohol shot 200. Furthermore, the present
embodiment can speed up the serving of spirits at bars and
restaurants because no mixing and pouring would be required.
Embodiments may also improve the safety and quality of drinking
spirits as consumers can be more confident that they are consuming
exactly, for example, 1.5 ounces of alcohol 200 or as marked on the
shot-glass 100.
[0068] With respect to storage and transportation, given the
smaller packaging and self-contained nature of each shot-glass 100,
if an accident were to occur in transit and a container were to
break, only the affected shot-glasses 100 may be lost rather than
the entire shipment. Compared with shipping glass containers,
shipments of plastic shot-glass systems 90 may be less likely to
shatter in transit. Additionally, shipping costs may be lower than
the cost of shipping glass bottles of alcohol due to the lower
weight associated with plastic shot-glasses systems 90. Storage
costs may also be lower due to the uniform size of the shot-glasses
systems 90.
[0069] With respect to tamper-resistance, given that the shot-glass
system 90 is opened immediately prior to consumption there may be
reduced opportunity for tampering and/or the addition of unwanted
substances than in the case of shot-glasses without removable lids.
The consumer will easily be able to see if their drink has been
tampered with because the shot-glass system does not have any
holes. If there are any air holes where the liquid could get out,
the drink has been tampered with. Given the predetermined volume in
each shot-glass system 90, bartenders and consumers may know the
precise alcohol quantities and volumes served per shot-glass system
90. This may provide improved safety as all parties are provided
the information they need to drink responsibly.
[0070] Embodiments may provide commercial efficiency, as the
shot-glass system 90, reduces the time it takes to serve individual
patrons of bars. This is due to the fact that the alcohol 200 has
already been mixed and poured into the shot-glass 100. With respect
to user satisfaction, the curved brim 140 provides a smooth
drinking experience that is comparable to non-disposable cups. With
respect to spill-prevention, the curved brim 140 enables the
shot-glass 100 to be tilted and consumed in a manner that contains
the alcohol 200 in the shot-glass 100.
[0071] Accordingly, embodiments described herein comprise a
single-serve, shot-glass system with three components that all help
to create a lightweight, attractive, and smooth plastic shot glass.
The materials create an enhanced drinking experience through the
use of a flared shaft and rounded brim at the top of the glass
where the lip can be positioned when taking the shot. The materials
include a container, removable or peel-able lid and adhesive.
[0072] The container holds the alcohol in an upright position. HDPE
(High-density polyethylene) plastic may be used because its
chemical composition is resistant to alcohol, allowing the
container to remain sturdy and not wilt or weaken, even while
subjected to extremely high or low temperatures. The container may
provide strength during shipping and may be stackable so it takes
up less space than other shot glasses. The container structure may
be designed so it can be dropped into other glasses without
breaking or breaking the glass into which it is dropped (e.g.
jagerbombs, saki bombs). The container may be non-toxic and may not
leach or change the flavour of alcohol.
[0073] For added strength, an epoxy coating may be added inside the
container as extra support and may increase the longevity of the
product. This epoxy system also improves the temperature range of
the product by allowing it to remain sturdy and intact at
temperatures warmer than -50 degrees Celsius. The coating may be
non-toxic and may not leach or change the flavour of alcohol.
[0074] The container has a flared shaft and curved brim to enhance
the drinking experience. The flared shaft and curved brim improve
the design of conventional cups with peel-off lids (fruit cups,
k-cups) by replacing the square, rigid design with a gradual,
rounded edge. This helps reduce spillage when drinking and provides
a more comfortable and effortless drinking experience. The
container is built specifically for the purpose of drinking
alcohol. The flared shaft may integrate smoothly with the curved
brim for user comfort when drinking.
[0075] If the liquid were to be poured into the shot-glass (think
of a server mixing drinks and pouring this into a rum and coke)
then the rounded curve may drip less and pour out better,
decreasing waste of liquid.
[0076] The peel-able lid ensures that the alcohol does not spill
while also providing a tab that allows the drinker easily to peel
it off the container. It may be created using a thin strip of HDPE
as well or a similar plastic such as PET that allows for more
creativity for printing colours and advertising. The plastic lid
provides better resistance to poking and sharp objects than a foil
top, for example. It too can be coated to increase the longevity of
the product. The lid is non-toxic and may not leach or change the
flavour of alcohol.
[0077] The adhesive, or sealant, holds the alcohol inside the
container by sealing the lid to the container. The adhesive ensures
the longevity of the product while also not being too strong to
prevent the lid from being able to be peeled off the container. An
epoxy system may do this by offering a stable adhesive and ripping
off when opposing force is applied (e.g. 12 pounds).
[0078] Embodiments described herein provide a smooth drinking
experience attributed to the flared shaft and curved brim, which
reduces spillage and makes ordering a shot or making a drink much
faster and precise. Embodiments described herein may reduce or
eliminate issues of sanitation, contamination, and inaccurate shot
volumes (such as under or over-pouring).
[0079] The shipping may be cheaper because the weight is less per
ounce than a glass bottle and storage may be cheaper because they
are a more uniform size. The alcohol is unexposed until the point
of consumption (if taken as a shot directly) and the provision of
beverages may be more economical because they can be poured and
served faster.
[0080] The following provides an example specification for the
single-serve, shot-glass system 90. This example specification is
for illustrative purposes and not limiting.
[0081] Shot-Glass [0082] Approximate height: 64 mm [0083]
Approximate diameter at top (furthest width): 64 mm [0084]
Approximate diameter inside top lip: 50 mm [0085] Approximate width
of top lip: 1-8 mm (as required for the adhesive to be able to seal
the lid on) [0086] Top lip is rounded for easy drinking (see FIG.
4) [0087] Width of material for container: 1-5 mm [0088]
Approximate diameter at bottom: 32 mm [0089] Clear matte finish of
container--translucent [0090] Recyclable (with please recycle sign
at bottom) [0091] Approximate VOLUME of 60 mL [0092] Meets Food and
Beverage standards to hold alcohol [0093] Good strength and
resilience (HDPE preferred)
[0094] Adhesive [0095] Meets food and beverage standards [0096] Can
seal alcoholic materials and be opened with ease [0097] As
transparent as possible [0098] VOC free
[0099] Lid [0100] Comes in a wide variety of colours [0101] Large
tab for easy opening [0102] Can seal alcohol (HDPE preferred)
[0103] Transparent and translucent options [0104] logo
[0105] The invention is not to be limited to the disclosed
embodiments but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various
modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the
spirit and scope of the claims. The scope is to be accorded the
broadest interpretation to encompass all such modifications and
equivalent structures.
Other Applications
[0106] The following section describes potential applications that
may be practiced in regards to some embodiments. There may be
other, different, modifications, etc. of the below potential
applications, and it should be understood that the description is
provided as non-limiting, illustrative examples only. For example,
there may be additions, omissions, modifications, and other
applications may be considered.
[0107] The single-serve shot-glass system 90 may find useful
applications in large event venues (e.g. sporting arenas, concerts,
rallies, etc.). The peel-off lid 120 and/or the shot-glass 100 may
serve as advertising platforms upon which companies may place
advertisements.
[0108] The single-serve shot-glass system 90 may have applications
in the field of medicine or hygiene. For example, the single-serve
shot-glass system may be used to dispense fluoride rinses in a
manner that is easy to consume for users by reason of the curved
brim 140 and the peel-off lid 120 that prevent spilling. As another
example, doses of medication either in liquid or pill form may be
stored in the single-serve shot-glass system 90 in order to
preserve the medication, protecting it from outside air and
preventing accidental spilling. As another example, the
single-serve shot-glass system 90 may contain other liquids such as
mouth-wash or contact-lens solution (e.g. for traveling users).
[0109] In other embodiments, the shot-glass 100 may be made of a
flexible plastic that enables "squeezing" out a more viscous
substance from the shot glass 100.
[0110] Although the embodiments have been described in detail, it
should be understood that various changes, substitutions and
alterations can be made herein.
[0111] Moreover, the scope of the present application is not
intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the
process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means,
methods and steps described in the specification. As one of
ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the
disclosure, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of
matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be
developed, that perform substantially the same function or achieve
substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments
described herein may be utilized. Accordingly, the appended claims
are intended to include within their scope such processes,
machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or
steps.
[0112] As can be understood, the examples described above and
illustrated are intended to be exemplary only.
* * * * *