US20080099351A1 - Liquid dispenser having interior liquid containment space and mounting structure for drinking container - Google Patents
Liquid dispenser having interior liquid containment space and mounting structure for drinking container Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20080099351A1 US20080099351A1 US11/752,270 US75227007A US2008099351A1 US 20080099351 A1 US20080099351 A1 US 20080099351A1 US 75227007 A US75227007 A US 75227007A US 2008099351 A1 US2008099351 A1 US 2008099351A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- liquid dispenser
- liquid
- dispenser
- drinking container
- containment space
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D23/00—Details of bottles or jars not otherwise provided for
- B65D23/003—Suspension means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D1/00—Containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material, by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
- B65D1/02—Bottles or similar containers with necks or like restricted apertures, designed for pouring contents
- B65D1/04—Multi-cavity bottles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D1/00—Containers having bodies formed in one piece, e.g. by casting metallic material, by moulding plastics, by blowing vitreous material, by throwing ceramic material, by moulding pulped fibrous material, by deep-drawing operations performed on sheet material
- B65D1/09—Ampoules
- B65D1/095—Ampoules made of flexible material
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D25/00—Details of other kinds or types of rigid or semi-rigid containers
- B65D25/20—External fittings
- B65D25/22—External fittings for facilitating lifting or suspending of containers
Definitions
- the liquid dispenser further comprises a liquid contained within the interior containment space.
- the liquid is a beverage additive.
- the liquid is a flavoring and/or a nutritional supplement.
- the liquid comprises alcohol. It is preferred that the body of the liquid dispenser comprises indicia on a surface thereof that is indicative of the liquid retained therein.
- the liquid dispenser further comprises a sealing element, which precludes a liquid contained within the interior containment space from flowing through a dispensing opening, and a tear away member, wherein manipulation of the tear away member results in rupturing of the sealing element whereby the liquid may be dispensed, and wherein the sealing element and the tear away member are located in the second portion of the liquid dispenser.
- the sealing element is formed from the same material as the body of the liquid dispenser.
- the sealing element comprises a thinner section of the body of the liquid dispenser.
- the tear away element comprises a nub of the second portion of the body of the liquid dispenser.
- the structure comprises an elongate slit formed in the body of the liquid dispenser within which is received a rim and a portion of a sidewall of the drinking container.
- the slit narrows at a point along its extent such that the narrowing of the slit provides a snap-fit attachment of the liquid dispenser onto the rim of the drinking container for secure mounting of the liquid dispenser onto the rim and sidewall of the drinking container.
- the body of the liquid dispenser comprises a wall that defines the interior containment space, and the wall is at least semi-flexible such that the liquid dispenser may be squeezed to expel any liquid within the interior containment space thereof
- the interior containment space of the liquid dispenser holds up to twelve milliliters of liquid for dispensing.
- the liquid dispenser is disk-like in shape.
- the drinking container comprises a glass and a cup.
- said step (c) is performed before step (b).
- said step (b) comprises squeezing the liquid dispenser such that liquid is expelled from the liquid dispenser into the drinking container.
- said step (c) comprises sliding the rim and a portion of a sidewall of the drinking container into an elongate slit of the liquid dispenser.
- said step (a) comprises detaching a tear away member from the liquid dispenser.
- said step (a) comprises partially detaching a tear away member from the liquid dispenser such that use of the liquid dispenser does not result in two pieces of waste for disposal but, instead, only in a single piece of waste for disposal.
- the method further comprises the steps of (a) rupturing a sealing element of a second liquid dispenser so as to expose a dispensing opening through which liquid contained in the liquid dispenser may be dispensed; (b) dispensing the liquid from the second liquid dispenser into the drinking container; and (c) mounting the second liquid dispenser onto the rim of the drinking container such that neither the first liquid dispenser nor the second liquid dispenser obstructs drinking from the rim of the drinking container.
- the drinking container comprises a glass and a disposable cup.
- the liquid is a beverage additive.
- the liquid is a flavoring, is a nutritional supplement, and comprises alcohol.
- FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the liquid dispenser of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the liquid dispenser of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a drinking container having a plurality of liquid dispensers of FIG. 1 affixed thereto.
- the liquid dispenser 10 further includes an area 18 that is dimensioned and configured to releasably mount the dispenser 10 to a drinking container, such as a glass or cup. More particularly, the liquid dispenser 10 includes an area 18 that is dimensioned and configured to releasably affix the dispenser 10 onto a rim of a drinking container. An example of the attachment of two liquid dispensers 10 to the rim and sidewall 38 of a drinking container 36 is illustrated in FIG. 5 .
- the liquid dispenser 10 may be returned or left on the drinking container 36 while the beverage having the added liquid is consumed.
- the dispenser 10 is sufficiently narrow so as not to impede consumption.
- the liquid dispenser 10 includes surface contours and colors so as to resemble a lemon, lime, or orange slice and thereby serves to decoratively embellish the drinking container 36 .
- the liquid dispenser 10 includes indicia on surfaces thereof that are indicative of the liquid retained therein. Such indicia may include trademarks or brand indications for the liquids.
- a liquid dispenser 10 may be removed from the drinking container 36 after the liquid is dispensed. It is contemplated that the dispensers 10 may be single-use disposable items and may be thrown away after use.
- the length of the slit 214 is such that it enables the liquid dispenser 200 to be securely affixed to the sidewall of the drinking container.
- the liquid dispenser 200 sits on the wall of the drinking container, with the first portion 218 located interior to the wall of the drinking container and the second portion 220 located exterior to the wall of the drinking container.
- the dispensing opening 212 is located relatively below a top of the drinking container.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ceramic Engineering (AREA)
- Closures For Containers (AREA)
- Packages (AREA)
- Details Of Rigid Or Semi-Rigid Containers (AREA)
Abstract
A liquid dispenser comprises a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container. The structure comprises an elongate opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser that generally divides the liquid dispenser into two portions. Approximately half of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the first portion of the body of the liquid dispenser. Alternatively, substantially all of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the first portion.
Description
- This application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/862,838, filed Oct. 25, 2006, which provisional patent application is incorporated herein by reference.
- All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are reserved.
- The present invention generally relates to dispensers, and more particularly, to liquid dispensers that are configured to be removably affixed to containers into which liquid held in the dispensers is, will be, or has been dispensed.
- Dispensing containers for holding and then releasing various liquids and/or powders into separate containers are generally known. Some known dispensing containers take the form of a compartment integrated with a main container into which the material held in the dispensing container will be released. Exemplary patents disclosing compartmented containers include U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,039,644 and 3,305,368. In these compartmented containers, often the dispensing container is separated from the main container by a frangible sealing wall or sealing portion which is ruptured by a piercing element in order to release the material held in the dispensing container into the main container.
- Known dispensing containers also take the form of a removable lid having a compartment formed therein for holding the material to be dispensed into a main container to which the lid fits in a covering relation. Exemplary patents disclosing lid-type dispensing containers include U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,779,372 and 7,017,735. The lid-type dispensing containers also generally have a frangible seal of some sort that is broken or ruptured upon manual manipulation in order to release the material held in the dispensing container into the main container.
- Further, dispensing containers are known that take the form of an elongate tubular stirrer wherein the material to be dispensed is retained inside the stirrer. Exemplary patents disclosing stirrer-type dispensing containers include U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,387,809 and 4,816,268. The stirrer-type dispensing containers have various forms of seals for holding and then releasing the materials. For example, some stirrer-type dispensing containers have dissolvable seals, others have plugs, and still others have seals formed in walls of the containers that are broken by tearing away portions of the containers.
- While known dispensing containers generally serve their intended purposes, it has been recognized that it would be desirable to have a dispensing container that is separate from, but that may be removably affixed to a drinking container in which the contents of the dispensing container are received.
- The present invention includes many aspects and features.
- Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention relates to a liquid dispenser comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container such that the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from a rim of the drinking container.
- In a feature of the first aspect, the structure is configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a side of the rim of the drinking container such that the liquid dispenser covers only a small portion of the rim whereby the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from the rim of the drinking container. In another feature of this aspect, the structure comprises an area of the body that is configured and dimensioned to receive a rim and portion of a sidewall of a container for mounting the liquid dispenser on a drinking container. With regard to this feature, the area comprises an opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser. With further regard to this feature, the opening extends from a periphery of the liquid dispenser.
- In an additional feature of this aspect, the structure comprises a resilient element providing tension for mounting the liquid dispenser onto the drinking container. In a further feature, the structure comprises an adhesive area located on the liquid dispenser for mounting the liquid dispenser onto the drinking container, whereby the liquid dispenser may be adhered to a surface of a sidewall of the drinking container. With regard to this feature, the adhesive area comprises a peel-off covering.
- In another feature of this aspect, the structure comprises a clasp that is attached to the liquid dispenser and that is adapted to be attached to a rim or sidewall of the drinking container for mounting the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container. In yet another feature, the body of the liquid dispenser comprises a wall that defines the interior containment space and wherein the wall is at least semi-flexible such that the liquid dispenser may be squeezed in order to expel liquid contained within the interior containment space. In still another feature, the interior containment space holds up to twelve milliliters of liquid for dispensing. In other features, the liquid dispenser is disk-like in shape and has a generally triangular periphery.
- In yet another feature, the liquid dispenser further comprises a liquid contained within the interior containment space. With regard to this feature, the liquid is a beverage additive. With further regard to this feature, the liquid is a flavoring and/or a nutritional supplement. In furtherance of this feature, the liquid comprises alcohol. It is preferred that the body of the liquid dispenser comprises indicia on a surface thereof that is indicative of the liquid retained therein.
- In an additional feature, the liquid dispenser comprises a surface and color such that the liquid dispenser resembles an orange slice, a lemon slice, or a lime slice. In another feature, the interior containment space comprises separate, isolated chambers wherein a different liquid may be contained within each respective chamber. In still another feature, the liquid dispenser further comprises a sealing element which precludes a liquid contained within the interior containment space from flowing through a dispensing opening. With regard to this feature, the liquid dispenser further comprises a tear away member, wherein manipulation of the tear away member results in rupturing of the sealing element whereby the liquid may be dispensed. In furtherance of this feature, the tear away member is integrally formed with the sealing element, and the sealing element is integrally formed with a wall of the body of the liquid dispenser. In accordance with this feature, the tear away member comprises a tab that may be pulled and at least partially separated or torn from the body of the liquid dispenser. With further regard to this feature, the liquid dispenser has a generally triangular periphery, and the tear away member forms a corner of the liquid dispenser.
- A second aspect of the present invention relates to a liquid dispenser comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container. The structure comprises an elongate opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser that generally divides the liquid dispenser into two portions, and approximately half of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the first portion of the body of the liquid dispenser.
- In a feature of this aspect, the liquid dispenser further comprises a sealing element, which precludes a liquid contained within the interior containment space from flowing through a dispensing opening, and a tear away member. Manipulation of the tear away member results in rupturing of the sealing element whereby the liquid may be dispensed. With regard to this feature, the tear away member comprises a tab located on a peripheral edge of the body of the liquid dispenser proximate the elongate opening, and the tab protrudes from the body of the liquid dispenser.
- A third aspect of the present invention relates to a liquid dispenser comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container. The structure comprises an elongate opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser that generally divides the liquid dispenser into two portions, and the volume of the interior containment space in the first portion is approximately equal to the volume of the interior containment space in the second portion.
- A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a liquid dispenser comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container. The structure comprises an elongate opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser that generally divides the liquid dispenser into two portions, and substantially all of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the first portion.
- In a feature of this aspect, the liquid dispenser further comprises a sealing element, which precludes a liquid contained within the interior containment space from flowing through a dispensing opening, and a tear away member. Manipulation of the tear away member results in rupturing of the sealing element whereby the liquid may be dispensed. With regard to this feature, the sealing element is disposed between and integrally formed with the first portion and the second portion and/or the sealing element is formed from the same material as the body of the liquid dispenser. In furtherance of this feature, a portion of the body of the liquid dispenser bridges the slit between the first portion and the second portion. In accordance with this feature, the tear away member is located in a distal end of the second portion and is connected to the portion of the body of the liquid dispenser that bridges the slit between the first portion and the second portion. It is preferred that the first portion and the second portion are connected together for movement of the distal end of the second portion relative to the first portion such that, when the tear away member is torn from the portion of the body of the liquid dispenser that bridges the slit between the first portion and the second portion, the second portion nevertheless remains connected to the first portion.
- A fifth aspect of the present invention relates to a liquid dispenser comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container, wherein the structure comprises an elongate opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser that generally divides the liquid dispenser into two portions, and wherein a substantial majority of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the first portion of the body of the liquid dispenser and a minority of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the second portion of the body of the liquid dispenser.
- In a feature of this aspect, the liquid dispenser further comprises a sealing element, which precludes a liquid contained within the interior containment space from flowing through a dispensing opening, and a tear away member, wherein manipulation of the tear away member results in rupturing of the sealing element whereby the liquid may be dispensed, and wherein the sealing element and the tear away member are located in the second portion of the liquid dispenser. With regard to this feature, the sealing element is formed from the same material as the body of the liquid dispenser. In accordance with this feature, the sealing element comprises a thinner section of the body of the liquid dispenser. In furtherance of this feature, the tear away element comprises a nub of the second portion of the body of the liquid dispenser.
- A sixth aspect of the present invention relates to a liquid dispenser comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and means for mounting of the body of the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container such that the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from a rim of the drinking container. In a feature of this aspect, the structure is configured to mount the body of the liquid dispenser onto a side of the rim of the drinking container such that the liquid dispenser covers only a small portion of the rim whereby the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from the rim of the drinking container.
- A seventh aspect of the present invention relates to a combination of a drinking container and a liquid dispenser comprising a drinking container defining an interior containment space for a beverage for human consumption and a liquid dispenser comprising a body defining an interior containment space and a structure by which the body of the liquid dispenser is mounted onto the drinking container such that the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from a rim of the drinking container.
- In a feature of this aspect, the structure comprises an elongate slit formed in the body of the liquid dispenser within which is received a rim and a portion of a sidewall of the drinking container. With regard to this feature, the slit narrows at a point along its extent such that the narrowing of the slit provides a snap-fit attachment of the liquid dispenser onto the rim of the drinking container for secure mounting of the liquid dispenser onto the rim and sidewall of the drinking container.
- In another feature, the structure is configured to mount the body of the liquid dispenser onto a side of the rim of the drinking container such that the liquid dispenser covers only a small portion of the rim whereby the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from the rim of the drinking container. In yet another feature, the structure comprises an elastic element providing tension for the mounting of the body of the liquid dispenser onto the drinking container. In an additional feature, the structure comprises an adhesive area located on the body of the liquid dispenser for the mounting of the body of the liquid dispenser onto the drinking container, whereby the liquid dispenser may be adhered to a surface of a sidewall of the drinking container.
- In a further feature, the structure comprises a clasp that is attached to the body of the liquid dispenser and that is adapted to be attached to a rim or sidewall of the drinking container for mounting of the body of the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container. In other features, the drinking container comprises a drinking glass and a disposable cup. In an additional feature, the combination further comprises one or more additional liquid dispensers mounted on the drinking container. In another feature, the liquid dispenser comprises a surface and color such that the liquid dispenser resembles an orange slice, a lemon slice, or a lime slice.
- In an additional feature, a first portion of the liquid dispenser is located within the interior of the drinking container and a second portion of the liquid dispenser is located outside of the drinking container. With regard to this feature, approximately half of the interior containment space is located in the first portion. In furtherance of this feature, substantially all of the interior containment space is located in the first portion. In accordance with this feature, a substantial majority of the interior containment space is located in the first portion of the body of the liquid dispenser and a minority of the interior containment space is located in the second portion of the body of the liquid dispenser.
- In a further feature, the body of the liquid dispenser comprises a wall that defines the interior containment space, and the wall is at least semi-flexible such that the liquid dispenser may be squeezed to expel any liquid within the interior containment space thereof In another feature, the interior containment space of the liquid dispenser holds up to twelve milliliters of liquid for dispensing. In yet another feature, the liquid dispenser is disk-like in shape. In other features, the drinking container comprises a glass and a cup.
- An eighth aspect of the present invention relates to a combination of a drinking container and a liquid dispenser comprising a drinking container defining an interior containment space for a beverage for human consumption and a liquid dispenser comprising a body defining an interior containment space and means for mounting of the body of the liquid dispenser on a drinking container such that the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from a rim of the drinking container.
- A ninth aspect of the present invention relates to a combination of a drinking container and a liquid dispenser comprising a drinking container defining an interior containment space for a beverage for human consumption and a liquid dispenser mounted on a side of a rim of the drinking container such that the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from the rim of the drinking container.
- A tenth aspect of the present invention relates to a method of dispensing a liquid into a drinking container, the method comprising the steps of: (a) providing a liquid dispenser comprising, a body defining an interior containment space in which the liquid to be dispensed is contained and a structure for mounting of the body of the liquid dispenser onto the drinking container such that the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from a rim of the drinking container; (b) dispensing the liquid from the liquid dispenser into the drinking container; and (c) mounting the liquid dispenser onto the drinking container via the structure of the liquid dispenser.
- In a feature of this aspect, performance of said step (a) results in an unobstructed slit extending from a periphery of the liquid dispenser, within which unobstructed slit is received onto the rim of the drinking container during performance of said step (c). In another feature, the liquid dispenser comprises a structure for mounting of the liquid dispenser onto the rim of the drinking container only after the sealing element has been ruptured. In yet another feature, the liquid dispenser comprises means for mounting of the body of the liquid dispenser onto the drinking container. In still another feature, said step (c) is performed after step (b).
- In an additional feature, said step (c) is performed before step (b). In another feature, said step (b) comprises squeezing the liquid dispenser such that liquid is expelled from the liquid dispenser into the drinking container. In a further feature, said step (c) comprises sliding the rim and a portion of a sidewall of the drinking container into an elongate slit of the liquid dispenser. In a still further feature, said step (a) comprises detaching a tear away member from the liquid dispenser. In yet another feature, said step (a) comprises partially detaching a tear away member from the liquid dispenser such that use of the liquid dispenser does not result in two pieces of waste for disposal but, instead, only in a single piece of waste for disposal.
- In another feature, said step (c) comprises mounting the liquid dispenser in an orientation in which a dispensing opening of the liquid dispenser is located within an interior of the drinking container. With regard to this feature, said step (b) is performed after said step (c). With further regard to this feature, said step (b) comprises squeezing the liquid dispenser such that liquid is expelled from the liquid dispenser into the drinking container.
- An eleventh aspect of the present invention relates to a method of dispensing a liquid into a drinking container, the method comprising the steps of: (a) rupturing a sealing element of a liquid dispenser so as to expose a dispensing opening through which liquid contained in the liquid dispenser may be dispensed; (b) dispensing the liquid from the liquid dispenser into the drinking container; and (c) mounting the liquid dispenser onto a rim of the drinking container such that the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from the rim of the drinking container.
- In a feature of this aspect, said step (c) is performed after step (b). In another feature, said step (c) is performed before step (b). In still another feature, said step (b) comprises squeezing the liquid dispenser such that liquid is expelled from the liquid dispenser into the drinking container. In yet another feature, said step (c) comprises sliding the rim and a portion of a sidewall of the drinking container into an elongate slit of the liquid dispenser.
- In an additional feature, said step (a) comprises detaching a tear away member from the liquid dispenser. In a further feature, said step (a) comprises partially detaching a tear away member from the liquid dispenser such that use of the liquid dispenser does not result in two pieces of waste for disposal but, instead, only in a single piece of waste for disposal. In a still further feature, said step (c) comprises mounting the liquid dispenser in an orientation in which a dispensing opening of the liquid dispenser is located within an interior of the drinking container. With regard to this feature, said step (b) is performed after said step (c). With further regard to this feature, said step (b) comprises squeezing the liquid dispenser such that liquid is expelled from the liquid dispenser into the drinking container.
- In another feature, said step (c) comprises mounting the liquid dispenser in an orientation in which a first portion of the liquid dispenser is located within an interior of the drinking container and a second portion of the liquid dispenser is located exterior to the drinking container. In accordance with this feature, a dispensing opening of the liquid container faces downwardly into the drinking container when the liquid dispenser is mounted in the orientation, said dispensing opening being below the rim of the drinking container. In furtherance of this feature, a dispensing opening of the liquid container faces a sidewall of the drinking container when the liquid dispenser is mounted in the orientation, said dispensing opening being below the rim of the drinking container.
- In an additional feature, the method further comprises the steps of (a) rupturing a sealing element of a second liquid dispenser so as to expose a dispensing opening through which liquid contained in the liquid dispenser may be dispensed; (b) dispensing the liquid from the second liquid dispenser into the drinking container; and (c) mounting the second liquid dispenser onto the rim of the drinking container such that neither the first liquid dispenser nor the second liquid dispenser obstructs drinking from the rim of the drinking container. In other features, the drinking container comprises a glass and a disposable cup. In another feature, the liquid is a beverage additive. In further features, the liquid is a flavoring, is a nutritional supplement, and comprises alcohol.
- A twelfth aspect of the present invention relates to a method of dispensing a liquid into a drinking container, the method comprising the steps of: (a) rupturing a sealing element of a liquid dispenser so as to expose a dispensing opening through which liquid contained in the liquid dispenser may be dispensed; (b) squeezing the liquid dispenser such that liquid is expelled from the liquid dispenser into the drinking container; and (c) positioning a rim and a portion of a sidewall of the drinking container into an elongate slit of the liquid dispenser such that the liquid dispenser is mounted onto the drinking container in a snap-fit attachment. In a feature of this aspect, said step (c) is performed after step (b). In another feature, said step (c) is performed before step (b).
- In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of the present invention, it should be noted that the present invention further encompasses the various possible combinations of such aspects and features.
- One or more preferred embodiments of the present invention now will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same elements are referred to with the same reference numerals, and wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid dispenser in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the liquid dispenser ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the liquid dispenser ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the liquid dispenser ofFIG. 1 wherein a tab is detached from the liquid dispenser. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a drinking container having a plurality of liquid dispensers ofFIG. 1 affixed thereto. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a liquid dispenser in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a liquid dispenser in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a liquid dispenser in accordance with a variation of the first embodiment of the present invention. - As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the present invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.
- Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.
- Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the appended claims rather than the description set forth herein.
- Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.
- Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having at least one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” In contrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes “a picnic basket having only one apple.”
- When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese without crackers”, “a picnic basket having crackers without cheese”, and “a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers.” Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well as describes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese.”
- Referring now to the drawings, one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its implementations, or uses.
- Turning now to
FIGS. 1-3 , these figures illustrate a first embodiment of the present invention. More particularly,FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a liquid dispenser in accordance with a preferred first embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the liquid dispenser ofFIG. 1 , andFIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the liquid dispenser ofFIG. 1 .FIG. 4 is another perspective view of the liquid dispenser ofFIG. 1 wherein a tab is detached from the liquid dispenser, andFIG. 5 is a perspective view of a drinking container having a plurality of liquid dispensers ofFIG. 1 mounted thereon. - The
liquid dispenser 10 is generally hollow and includes awall 12 defining an interior space wherein liquid is held. Theliquid dispenser 10 also is generally disk-like in shape, in that theliquid dispenser 10 has a generally round cross-section and a generally narrow thickness. In addition, the thickness of theliquid dispenser 10 tapers near aperipheral edge 16 thereof. Preferably, thewall 12 is at least semi-flexible such that theliquid dispenser 10 may be squeezed to expel liquid contained within the interior space. - To dispense liquids from the
dispenser 10 ofFIG. 1 , a tear awaymember 20 is at least partially—and preferably completely—detached from theliquid dispenser 10. Detachment of the tear awaymember 20, which may comprise a tab, ruptures a sealingelement 22 and exposes a dispensing opening ormouth 14, defined by aportion 24 of the sealingelement 22, into the interior space in which the liquid is held. Until such detachment, the sealingelement 22 prevents liquid from flowing through the dispensingopening 14. The dispensingopening 14 is illustratedFIG. 4 , wherein thetab 20 has been completely removed from theliquid dispenser 10. Thetab 20 projects outwardly away from theedge 16 of thedispenser 10 to facilitate manual grasping by the fingers. Preferably, abase 34 of thetab 20 is integrally formed with the sealingelement 22 for seamless transition therebetween. Moreover, the sealingelement 22 preferably is integrally formed with thewall 12 of the liquid dispenser from the same material and comprises a thinner section of the material relative to thewall 12. The sealingelement 22 extends between and connects thewall 12 of thedispenser 10 and thetab 20 and is relatively easily ruptured for detachment of thetab 20 from thewall 12. - The
liquid dispenser 10 further includes anarea 18 that is dimensioned and configured to releasably mount thedispenser 10 to a drinking container, such as a glass or cup. More particularly, theliquid dispenser 10 includes anarea 18 that is dimensioned and configured to releasably affix thedispenser 10 onto a rim of a drinking container. An example of the attachment of twoliquid dispensers 10 to the rim andsidewall 38 of adrinking container 36 is illustrated inFIG. 5 . - The
area 18 of theliquid dispenser 10 comprises a recessed area, and more particularly, anelongate slit 26 that is formed by thewall 12 of theliquid dispenser 10. Theslit 26 is dimensioned and configured to receive and grasp therein a rim and a portion of a sidewall of a drinking container. Theslit 26 also extends generally inwardly from theedge 16 of thedispenser 10 toward acentral area 28 of thedispenser 10. Theslit 26 thereby generally partially bisects thedispenser 10, dividing it into twoportions slit 26 also preferably narrows at a point along its extent. The narrowing of theslit 26 further enables a grasping function for securely mounting theliquid dispenser 10 onto the rim and sidewall of a drinking container. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of adrinking container 36 such as a glass or cup that has a plurality ofliquid dispensers 10 mounted thereon. Twodispensers 10 are shown affixed to thedrinking container 36. Alternatively, asingle liquid dispenser 10 may be affixed to thedrinking container 36 or more than twoliquid dispensers 10 may be affixed to adrinking container 36, as desired. -
FIG. 5 serves to illustrate thedrinking container 36 in an exemplary scenario in whichliquid dispensers 10 may be used. In particular, thedrinking container 36 and theliquid dispensers 10 may be served as shown inFIG. 5 to a patron in a commercial eating establishment, i.e., a person may order a beverage having two drink additives accompanying it, and a server may bring the order to the person as is shown inFIG. 5 . In this exemplary scenario, thetabs 20 of theliquid dispensers 10 may not yet been be detached for dispensing liquids from thedispensers 10 into thedrinking container 36. - When a
liquid dispenser 10 is affixed to a drinking container, the rim andwall 38 of thedrinking container 36 is received within theslit 26 of theliquid dispenser 10 and theliquid dispenser 10 is oriented in a dispensing position wherein the dispensing opening ormouth 14 is disposed within the interior of thedrinking container 36. Furthermore, afirst portion 30 is located within the interior of the drinking container and asecond portion 32 is located exterior to the drinking container. When thetab 20 has been removed and theliquid dispenser 10 is mounted in the dispensing position, themouth 14 of theliquid dispenser 10 will be open to the interior of thedrinking container 36. - Continuing to refer to
FIG. 5 , it is contemplated that abeverage 40 will be contained in thedrinking container 36 and that the liquid held in aliquid dispenser 10 will be mixed with thebeverage 40 in thedrinking container 36. Furthermore, while gravity acts to encourage liquid to flow freely from thedispenser 10 into thebeverage 40, it is preferred that a user will squeeze theliquid dispenser 10 in order to expel liquid into thedrinking container 36. Squeezing the liquid from theliquid dispenser 10 will increase the velocity of the liquid as it exits themouth 14 which, in turn, will aid in the mixing of the expelled liquid with thebeverage 40. - It also is contemplated that an overlay, having a relatively smaller opening disposed therein, may be applied to the dispensing
opening 14 such that the liquid would be expelled there through. The smaller opening of such an overlay serves to further increase the velocity of the liquid as it exits theliquid dispenser 10 which, in turn, further aids in the mixing of the liquid with thebeverage 40. - After liquid has been dispensed from a
liquid dispenser 10, theliquid dispenser 10 may be returned or left on thedrinking container 36 while the beverage having the added liquid is consumed. Thedispenser 10 is sufficiently narrow so as not to impede consumption. In alternative variations, theliquid dispenser 10 includes surface contours and colors so as to resemble a lemon, lime, or orange slice and thereby serves to decoratively embellish thedrinking container 36. In other variations, theliquid dispenser 10 includes indicia on surfaces thereof that are indicative of the liquid retained therein. Such indicia may include trademarks or brand indications for the liquids. Alternatively, if desired, aliquid dispenser 10 may be removed from thedrinking container 36 after the liquid is dispensed. It is contemplated that thedispensers 10 may be single-use disposable items and may be thrown away after use. - Any kinds of liquids that may be desirable to add to beverages may be contained in
liquid dispensers 10.Liquid dispensers 10 may contain beverage additives such as flavoring liquids. Examples may include, but are not limited to, flavors such as lemon, lime, raspberry, strawberry, vanilla, hazelnut, and the like. Theliquid dispensers 10 may also contain various nutritional supplement liquids. Examples may include, but are not limited to, protein supplements, energy boost supplements, various vitamin supplements, and the like. Theliquid dispensers 10 may also include various alcoholic beverages. Examples include, but are not limited to, vodka, rum, bourbon, whiskey, and the like. - It is contemplated that a
liquid dispenser 10 will be capable of holding up to twelve milliliters (12 ml) of liquid. The actual volume in any particular instance may be varied as desired by changing the size or configuration of theliquid dispenser 10. - It further is contemplated that
liquid dispensers 10 will be constructed of plastic, which in at least some embodiments is a flexible plastic such that thedispensers 10 may be readily compressed between the user's fingers. Examples of suitable plastics include, but are not limited to, low density polyethylene (LDPE), low density polypropylene (LDPP), medium density polyethylene (MDPE), and medium density polypropylene (MDPP). -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of aliquid dispenser 100 in accordance with a preferred second embodiment of the present invention. Similar to theliquid dispenser 10 ofFIG. 1 , theliquid dispenser 100 is generally hollow and includes awall 102 defining an interior space wherein liquid is retained. Theliquid dispenser 100 has a generally triangular perimeter and a relatively narrow thickness. The thickness of thedispenser 100 tapers near theperipheral edges 106 of thedispenser 100. Preferably, thewall 102 is at least semi-flexible such that theliquid dispenser 100 may be squeezed in order to expel liquid contained within the interior space. - The
liquid dispenser 100 includes a tear awaymember 110 that, when manually manipulated or pulled, ruptures a sealingelement 112 to expose a dispensing opening through which liquid may be dispensed. As illustrated, the tear awaymember 110 may comprise atab 110 that may be pulled and at least partially separated or torn from theliquid dispenser 100. Thetab 110 comprises a corner of the generally triangular perimeter of theliquid dispenser 100. Abase 122 of thetab 110 preferably is integrally formed with the sealingelement 112 for seamless transition therebetween. Moreover, the sealingelement 112 preferably is integrally formed with thewall 102 of theliquid dispenser 100 from the same material and comprises a thinner section of the material relative to thewall 102. The sealingelement 112 extends between and connects thewall 102 of theliquid dispenser 100 and thetab 110 and is relatively easily ruptured for detachment of thetab 110 from thewall 102. The sealingelement 112 prevents liquid from flowing through a dispensing opening through which liquid is dispensed when thetab 112 is detached. - The
liquid dispenser 100 further includes anarea 108 that is dimensioned and configured to releasably mount theliquid dispenser 100 to a drinking container into which the liquid is to be dispensed. Thearea 108 comprises anelongate slit 116 formed in theliquid dispenser 100. Theslit 116 projects generally inwardly from one of theedges 106 of theliquid dispenser 100. Theslit 116 partially divides the volume of thedispenser 100 into twounequal portions - To mount the
liquid dispenser 100 to a drinking container, theliquid dispenser 100 is slid onto the rim of the drinking container, with the rim and a portion of the sidewall of the drinking container being received within theslit 116 of theliquid dispenser 100. The length of theslit 116 is such that it enables thedispenser 100 to be securely mounted on the wall of the drinking container. Thedispenser 100 thereby sits on the wall of the drinking container withportion 118 located within the interior of the drinking container andportion 120 located exterior to the drinking container. - To dispense liquid from the
dispenser 100, thetab 110 is detached, thereby rupturing the sealingelement 112 and exposing the dispensing opening through which the liquid may then be dispensed. Furthermore, while gravity acts to encourage liquid to flow freely from thedispenser 100, it is preferred that a user squeeze theliquid dispenser 100 to expel the liquid from theliquid dispenser 100. Expelling liquid from theliquid dispenser 100 will increase the velocity of the liquid as it exits thedispenser 100 and thereby aid in the mixing of the liquid with a beverage. - After liquid has been dispensed from a the
liquid dispenser 100, theliquid dispenser 100 may be returned to or left on the drinking container during consumption. Theliquid dispenser 100 is sufficiently narrow so as not to impede drinking. However, theliquid dispenser 100 may be removed from the drinking container after the liquid has been dispensed and disposed of, as desired. It is contemplated that theliquid dispenser 100 is a single-use disposable item and may be thrown away after use. - In alternative variations, the
liquid dispenser 100 includes indicia on surfaces thereof that are indicative of the liquids retained therein. Such indicia may include trademarks or brand indications for the liquids. - Any kinds of liquids that may be desirable to add to beverages may be contained in
liquid dispensers 100.Liquid dispensers 100 may contain beverage additives such as flavoring liquids. Examples may include, but are not limited to, flavors such as lemon, lime, raspberry, strawberry, vanilla, hazelnut, and the like. Theliquid dispensers 100 may also contain various nutritional supplement liquids. Examples may include, but are not limited to, protein supplements, energy boost supplements, various vitamin supplements, and the like. Theliquid dispensers 100 may also include various alcoholic beverages. Examples include, but are not limited to, vodka, rum, bourbon, whiskey, and the like. - It is contemplated that a
liquid dispenser 100 will be capable of holding up to twelve milliliters (12 ml) of liquid. The actual volume in any particular instance may be varied as desired by changing the size or configuration of theliquid dispenser 100. - It further is contemplated that
liquid dispensers 100 will be constructed of plastic, which in at least some embodiments is a flexible plastic such that thedispensers 10 may be readily compressed between the user's fingers. Examples of suitable plastics include, but are not limited to, low density polyethylene (LDPE), low density polypropylene (LDPP), medium density polyethylene (MDPE), and medium density polypropylene (MDPP). -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of aliquid dispenser 200 in accordance with a preferred third embodiment of the present invention. Similar to theliquid dispensers FIG. 1 andFIG. 6 , respectively, theliquid dispenser 200 is generally hollow and includes awall 202 defining an interior space wherein liquid is retained. Theliquid dispenser 200 has a generally triangular perimeter and a relatively narrow thickness. Preferably, thewall 202 is at least semi-flexible such that theliquid dispenser 200 may be squeezed in order to expel liquid contained within the interior space. - The
liquid dispenser 200 includes anarea 206 that is dimensioned and configured to releasably mount theliquid dispenser 200 to a drinking container into which the liquid is to be dispensed. Thearea 206 comprises anelongate slit 214 formed in theliquid dispenser 200. Theslit 214 projects generally inwardly from one of theedges 216 of theliquid dispenser 200. Theslit 214 partially divides the volume of thedispenser 100 into twounequal portions embodiments liquid dispenser 200 ofFIG. 7 , the interior space and, therefore, the volume of liquid contained therein, is primarily located in one rather than two portions of thedispenser 200. More particularly, the interior space is primarily located in afirst portion 218 of thedispenser 200, although a small amount may be contained within arecess 208 formed in asecond portion 220. - The
liquid dispenser 200 includes a sealingelement 210 that is disposed between and integrally formed with theportions element 210 further is formed from the same material as thewall 202 of thedispenser 200 but is thinner than thewall thickness 202 of theportions element 210 prevents liquid from flowing through adispensing opening 204, defined by aportion 212 of the sealingelement 210, in thewall 202 of thedispenser 200; however, the sealingelement 210 is relatively easily ruptured or separated when liquid is desired to be dispensed by manipulation ofportions portions element 210. - As will be appreciated, the liquid should be dispensed from the
liquid dispenser 200 prior to mounting of the liquid dispenser to a drinking container. Moreover, thesecond portion 220 is not intended to be completely separated from thefirst portion 218 when the sealingelement 210 is ruptured. Thus, to mount theliquid dispenser 200 to the drinking container, the sealingelement 210 is first torn (thereby opening theslit 214 to reception therein of the rim and sidewall of the drinking container) and then theliquid dispenser 200 is slid onto a rim and sidewall of a drinking container, with the rim and sidewall of the drinking container being received within theslit 214. Furthermore, the length of theslit 214 is such that it enables theliquid dispenser 200 to be securely affixed to the sidewall of the drinking container. Theliquid dispenser 200 sits on the wall of the drinking container, with thefirst portion 218 located interior to the wall of the drinking container and thesecond portion 220 located exterior to the wall of the drinking container. In addition, the dispensingopening 212 is located relatively below a top of the drinking container. - It further will be appreciated that using the
dispenser 200 does not result in two pieces of waste for disposal but, instead, only in a single piece of waste since it is intended that thefirst portion 218 remain attached to thesecond portion 220 for mounting of theliquid dispenser 200 to the drinking container. Complete detachment of thefirst portion 218 from thesecond portion 220 would destroy theslit 214 and thereby preclude the capability of mounting of theliquid dispenser 200 to a drinking container in accordance with preferred embodiments of the present invention. It is noted thatdispenser 200 may be preferred by commercial establishments who seek to offer additive liquids to customers in preferred liquid dispensers of the present invention because the number of items of waste produced by their customers will be reduced. - In alternative variations, the
liquid dispenser 200 includes indicia on surfaces thereof that are indicative of the liquids retained therein. Such indicia may include trademarks or brand indications for the liquids. - Any kinds of liquids that may be desirable to add to beverages may be contained in
liquid dispensers 200.Liquid dispensers 200 may contain beverage additives such as flavoring liquids. Examples may include, but are not limited to, flavors such as lemon, lime, raspberry, strawberry, vanilla, hazelnut, and the like. Theliquid dispensers 200 may also contain various nutritional supplement liquids. Examples may include, but are not limited to, protein supplements, energy boost supplements, various vitamin supplements, and the like. Theliquid dispensers 200 may also include various alcoholic beverages. Examples include, but are not limited to, vodka, rum, bourbon, whiskey, and the like. - It is contemplated that a
liquid dispenser 200 will be capable of holding up to twelve milliliters (12 ml) of liquid. The actual volume in any particular instance may be varied as desired by changing the size or configuration of theliquid dispenser 200. It further is contemplated thatliquid dispensers 200 will be constructed of plastic, which in at least some embodiments is a flexible plastic such that thedispensers 200 may be readily compressed between the user's fingers. Examples of suitable plastics include, but are not limited to, low density polyethylene (LDPE), low density polypropylene (LDPP), medium density polyethylene (MDPE), and medium density polypropylene (MDPP). - The
preferred liquid dispensers liquid dispenser liquid dispenser - In addition to the foregoing, it is contemplated that a liquid dispenser may be mounted or otherwise directly attached to a sidewall or other portion of a drinking container by other than the above-described slit arrangement, and that a liquid dispenser may include other types of structures for such mounting. For example, a liquid dispenser may include an adhesive area located on the dispenser such as, for instance, a peel-off adhesive backing attached to a wall of the liquid dispenser, whereby the dispenser may be adhered to a surface a sidewall of the drinking container. Moreover, such attachment may be permanent or temporary. Other structural arrangements that may be used to attach the dispenser to the drinking container may include a clasp or binder that is attached to the liquid dispenser and that is adapted to be attached to a rim or sidewall of the drinking container.
- Additionally, it is contemplated that an interior space of a liquid dispenser may be divided into separate chambers with each chamber containing a different liquid. For example, with regard to
FIG. 8 , a liquid dispenser may include an interior containment space divided into two separate,isolated chambers wall 21, wherein onechamber 27 contains, for instance, lemon flavoring and theother chamber 29 contains, for instance, vodka for use by a person wishing to consume a mixed alcoholic beverage. In further regard to this, the liquid dispenser may includeseparate sealing elements tabs separate chambers - Finally, it is contemplated that a liquid dispenser in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention may include aspects and features as disclosed herein, but may not include any structural features for mounting of the liquid dispenser to a drinking container. For instance, it is contemplated that a liquid dispenser in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention may include aspects and features disclosed herein without regard to whether any structural features thereof are actually used for mounting of the liquid dispenser to a drinking container.
- Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention. Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.
Claims (18)
1. A liquid dispenser, comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container,
(a) wherein the structure comprises an elongate opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser that generally divides the liquid dispenser into two portions, and
(b) wherein approximately half of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the first portion of the body of the liquid dispenser.
2. The liquid dispenser of claim 1 , further comprising,
(i) a sealing element, which precludes a liquid contained within the interior containment space from flowing through a dispensing opening, and
(ii) a tear away member,
(iii) wherein manipulation of the tear away member results in rupturing of the sealing element whereby the liquid may be dispensed.
3. The liquid dispenser of claim 2 , wherein the tear away member comprises a tab located on a peripheral edge of the body of the liquid dispenser proximate the elongate opening and wherein the tab protrudes from the body of the liquid dispenser.
4. A liquid dispenser, comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container,
(a) wherein the structure comprises an elongate opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser that generally divides the liquid dispenser into two portions, and
(b) wherein the volume of the interior containment space in the first portion is approximately equal to the volume of the interior containment space in the second portion.
5. A liquid dispenser, comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container,
(a) wherein the structure comprises an elongate opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser that generally divides the liquid dispenser into two portions, and
(b) wherein substantially all of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the first portion.
6. The liquid dispenser of claim 5 , further comprising,
(i) a sealing element, which precludes a liquid contained within the interior containment space from flowing through a dispensing opening, and
(ii) a tear away member,
(iii) wherein manipulation of the tear away member results in rupturing of the sealing element whereby the liquid may be dispensed.
7. The liquid dispenser of claim 6 , wherein the sealing element is disposed between and integrally formed with the first portion and the second portion.
8. The liquid dispenser of claim 6 , wherein the sealing element is formed from the same material as the body of the liquid dispenser.
9. The liquid dispenser of claim 6 , wherein a portion of the body of the liquid dispenser bridges the slit between the first portion and the second portion.
10. The liquid dispenser of claim 9 , wherein the tear away member is located in a distal end of the second portion and is connected to the portion of the body of the liquid dispenser that bridges the slit between the first portion and the second portion.
11. The liquid dispenser of claim 10 , wherein the first portion and the second portion are connected together for movement of the distal end of the second portion relative to the first portion such that, when the tear away member is torn from the portion of the body of the liquid dispenser that bridges the slit between the first portion and the second portion, the second portion nevertheless remains connected to the first portion.
12. A liquid dispenser, comprising a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed and a structure configured to mount the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container,
(a) wherein the structure comprises an elongate opening formed in the body of the liquid dispenser that generally divides the liquid dispenser into two portions, and
(b) wherein a substantial majority of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the first portion of the body of the liquid dispenser and a minority of the volume of the interior containment space is located in the second portion of the body of the liquid dispenser.
13. The liquid dispenser of claim 12 , further comprising,
(i) a sealing element, which precludes a liquid contained within the interior containment space from flowing through a dispensing opening, and
(ii) a tear away member,
(iii) wherein manipulation of the tear away member results in rupturing of the sealing element whereby the liquid may be dispensed, and
(iv) wherein the sealing element and the tear away member are located in the second portion of the liquid dispenser.
14. The liquid dispenser of claim 13 , wherein the sealing element is formed from the same material as the body of the liquid dispenser.
15. The liquid dispenser of claim 13 , wherein the sealing element comprises a thinner section of the body of the liquid dispenser.
16. The liquid dispenser of claim 13 , wherein the tear away element comprises a nub of the second portion of the body of the liquid dispenser.
17. A liquid dispenser, comprising:
(a) a body defining an interior containment space for containing a liquid to be dispensed, and
(b) means for mounting of the body of the liquid dispenser onto a drinking container such that the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from a rim of the drinking container.
18. The liquid dispenser of claim 17 , wherein the structure is configured to mount the body of the liquid dispenser onto a side of the rim of the drinking container such that the liquid dispenser covers only a small portion of the rim whereby the liquid dispenser does not obstruct drinking from the rim of the drinking container.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/752,270 US20080099351A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Liquid dispenser having interior liquid containment space and mounting structure for drinking container |
PCT/US2007/071664 WO2008051636A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-06-20 | Liquid dispensers mountable on drinking container |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US86283806P | 2006-10-25 | 2006-10-25 | |
US11/752,270 US20080099351A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Liquid dispenser having interior liquid containment space and mounting structure for drinking container |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080099351A1 true US20080099351A1 (en) | 2008-05-01 |
Family
ID=39324908
Family Applications (5)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/752,281 Abandoned US20080099506A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Liquid dispenser having multi-chamber interior liquid containment space |
US11/752,270 Abandoned US20080099351A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Liquid dispenser having interior liquid containment space and mounting structure for drinking container |
US11/752,274 Abandoned US20080099352A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Drinking container with liquid dispenser mounted thereon |
US11/752,285 Abandoned US20080102174A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Liquid dispenser with mounting structure for drinking container |
US11/752,277 Abandoned US20080102173A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Method for dispensing liquid into drinking container with liquid dispenser mountable to drinking container |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/752,281 Abandoned US20080099506A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Liquid dispenser having multi-chamber interior liquid containment space |
Family Applications After (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/752,274 Abandoned US20080099352A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Drinking container with liquid dispenser mounted thereon |
US11/752,285 Abandoned US20080102174A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Liquid dispenser with mounting structure for drinking container |
US11/752,277 Abandoned US20080102173A1 (en) | 2006-10-25 | 2007-05-22 | Method for dispensing liquid into drinking container with liquid dispenser mountable to drinking container |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (5) | US20080099506A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2008051636A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US10631558B2 (en) | 2006-03-06 | 2020-04-28 | The Coca-Cola Company | Methods and apparatuses for making compositions comprising an acid and an acid degradable component and/or compositions comprising a plurality of selectable components |
US20080099506A1 (en) * | 2006-10-25 | 2008-05-01 | Yo! Brands, Llc | Liquid dispenser having multi-chamber interior liquid containment space |
US8162176B2 (en) * | 2007-09-06 | 2012-04-24 | The Coca-Cola Company | Method and apparatuses for providing a selectable beverage |
WO2011075798A1 (en) * | 2009-12-24 | 2011-06-30 | Bm Gol Pty Ltd | Single-use containers and uses thereof |
EP3081504B1 (en) * | 2015-04-16 | 2019-06-26 | Schoeller Allibert GmbH | Container, or canister for the storage and the transport of flowable material and a container system |
Citations (55)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1364763A (en) * | 1920-03-06 | 1921-01-04 | Houghton Myrtle | Milk-receptacle and cream-remover |
US2528530A (en) * | 1945-04-16 | 1950-11-07 | Paul Stiller | Paint container means and mixing preselected colored paints |
US2789496A (en) * | 1955-12-12 | 1957-04-23 | Marion M Turner | Fruit slice holder and juice squeezer |
US2824010A (en) * | 1955-07-29 | 1958-02-18 | Carl G Pedersen | Flavor-containing milk container top |
US2867536A (en) * | 1954-05-07 | 1959-01-06 | Mead Bruce Ronald | Flavor-containing drinking straw |
USRE24621E (en) * | 1959-03-17 | Dispensing container for support upon an edge of a receptacle | ||
US3039644A (en) * | 1961-10-02 | 1962-06-19 | Lefcort Martin | Compartmented beverage container |
US3156369A (en) * | 1962-09-19 | 1964-11-10 | Ethicon Inc | Bicameral container |
US3199437A (en) * | 1963-02-25 | 1965-08-10 | Silas E Nelsen | Infusion apparatus |
US3275448A (en) * | 1963-08-26 | 1966-09-27 | Marshall H Sevin | Comestibles container with water soluble product therein |
US3305368A (en) * | 1963-12-09 | 1967-02-21 | Joseph G Bourelle | Beverage package |
US3326363A (en) * | 1965-11-08 | 1967-06-20 | Robert A Bennett | Lid type closure |
US3347410A (en) * | 1966-08-31 | 1967-10-17 | Schwartzman Gilbert | Mixing assemblies for applicators |
US3349966A (en) * | 1966-04-25 | 1967-10-31 | Schwartzman Gilbert | Two-part mixture package and applicator |
US3443726A (en) * | 1967-08-18 | 1969-05-13 | Nat Can Corp | Multiple element mixing and dispensing container |
US3603469A (en) * | 1968-04-11 | 1971-09-07 | Ambrogio Magni | Guarantee cap |
US3627177A (en) * | 1970-04-22 | 1971-12-14 | Knomark Inc | Dispenser combined with hanging clip for inverted support |
US3752365A (en) * | 1971-11-01 | 1973-08-14 | M Coleman | Bath room mouth wash dispenser |
US3779372A (en) * | 1971-04-01 | 1973-12-18 | Lloret H De | Container for the components of mixed drinks |
US4081560A (en) * | 1975-11-18 | 1978-03-28 | Ishigaki Shokuhin, Inc. | Instant milk-containing coffee |
US4221291A (en) * | 1978-06-20 | 1980-09-09 | General Foods Corporation | Container having separate storage facilities for two materials |
US4228928A (en) * | 1978-10-25 | 1980-10-21 | Northwest Sanitation Products, Inc. | Bottle with a clip for suspending the bottle in inverted position |
US4387809A (en) * | 1981-05-01 | 1983-06-14 | Botzler Paul C | Multi-compartment combination package and stirrer device |
US4634003A (en) * | 1984-08-22 | 1987-01-06 | Suntory Limited | Container for accommodating two kinds of liquids |
US4775060A (en) * | 1987-09-09 | 1988-10-04 | Tom Pinney | Animal straw holder |
US4776972A (en) * | 1984-04-04 | 1988-10-11 | Purex Corporation | Adjustable strength laundry bleaching using a two compartment package |
US4789082A (en) * | 1986-12-22 | 1988-12-06 | Sampson Renick F | Container discharge control |
US4816268A (en) * | 1987-08-14 | 1989-03-28 | Nutrasweet Co | Process for preparing a comestible containing stirrer straw and product thereof |
US4917237A (en) * | 1987-02-12 | 1990-04-17 | Imperial Chemical Industries Plc | System for introducing additive into a container |
US5052553A (en) * | 1989-09-27 | 1991-10-01 | Sanctis Attilio J De | Container having manually openable closure for mixing |
US5114011A (en) * | 1990-08-31 | 1992-05-19 | Robbins Edward S Iii | Container assemblies with additive cups |
US5125534A (en) * | 1991-01-14 | 1992-06-30 | Rose Barry L | Beverage flavoring and dispensing apparatus and method of construction |
US5353955A (en) * | 1991-10-17 | 1994-10-11 | Kraft General Foods, Inc. | Beverage container |
US5419447A (en) * | 1993-12-14 | 1995-05-30 | Lim; Pak P. | Baby bottle |
US5470601A (en) * | 1989-10-19 | 1995-11-28 | Robertson; James P. | Container for preparing and using alcoholic extracts |
USD365138S (en) * | 1994-12-08 | 1995-12-12 | Ramesh Puri | Toilet bowl cleaner dispenser |
US5669519A (en) * | 1996-03-28 | 1997-09-23 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Jug having a secondary bottle in the handle opening |
US5979647A (en) * | 1997-12-30 | 1999-11-09 | Han; Ki Su | Lid for container |
USD430492S (en) * | 1999-10-12 | 2000-09-05 | Seaquist Closures Foreign, Inc. | Rod-mountable dispensing container |
US6152362A (en) * | 1999-02-16 | 2000-11-28 | Rosenfeld; Julie H. | Food server and condiment holder |
US6165523A (en) * | 1999-04-26 | 2000-12-26 | Story; Douglas | Injector bottle cap assembly |
US6179166B1 (en) * | 1999-10-12 | 2001-01-30 | Seaquist Closures Foreign, Inc. | Rod-supportable hanging container |
US6230969B1 (en) * | 1999-03-17 | 2001-05-15 | Peter J. Spransy | Food container and sauce reservoir arrangement |
US6234357B1 (en) * | 1999-08-30 | 2001-05-22 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Multipurpose carrying system for dispensing viscous liquid products |
US6273283B1 (en) * | 2000-03-29 | 2001-08-14 | Frank P. Terrana | Clip-on bottles |
US20010050283A1 (en) * | 1999-06-11 | 2001-12-13 | Gary Nance | Condiment cup |
US6360944B1 (en) * | 2000-08-16 | 2002-03-26 | Charles Gorman | Food container with a foldable condiment holder |
US20030141269A1 (en) * | 2002-01-02 | 2003-07-31 | Mikelyn Roderick | Letter and number shaped bottle |
US6610254B1 (en) * | 1999-08-10 | 2003-08-26 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Dual function dispenser |
US6708735B1 (en) * | 2002-12-11 | 2004-03-23 | Antony Austin Kenihan | Dispensing lid closure for confections and methods of making and using the closure |
US6779687B2 (en) * | 2002-08-16 | 2004-08-24 | Lisa Vallier | Squeezable juice dispenser for beverages |
US6964354B2 (en) * | 2003-10-22 | 2005-11-15 | Docian, S.L. | Double metering dispenser for hygienic substances |
US6976578B1 (en) * | 2002-05-07 | 2005-12-20 | Antony Austin Kenihan | Dispensing lid closure for beverage container and method of making and using the closure |
US7017735B2 (en) * | 2001-04-26 | 2006-03-28 | The Coca-Cola Company | Dispensing cap with capsule for container |
US20080099506A1 (en) * | 2006-10-25 | 2008-05-01 | Yo! Brands, Llc | Liquid dispenser having multi-chamber interior liquid containment space |
Family Cites Families (15)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3126821A (en) * | 1964-03-31 | Device for sanitarily handling a half-slice of citrus fruit | ||
US3743520A (en) * | 1971-09-03 | 1973-07-03 | J Croner | Compartmented beverage container |
US4018560A (en) * | 1974-01-31 | 1977-04-19 | Hooker Chemicals & Plastics Corporation | Dialkyl alkyl and cyclic phosphoramidomethyl phosphonates |
JPS61166966U (en) * | 1985-04-03 | 1986-10-16 | ||
US4768688A (en) * | 1986-04-24 | 1988-09-06 | Harrigan Roy Major | Suntan lotion bracelet |
USD327216S (en) * | 1990-04-27 | 1992-06-23 | Elizabeth Arden Company, Division Of Conopco, Inc. | Cosmetic capsule |
USD369210S (en) * | 1995-04-21 | 1996-04-23 | R. P. Scherer Corporation | Softgel capsule |
USD371839S (en) * | 1995-06-24 | 1996-07-16 | R. P. Scherer Corporation | Softgel capsule |
USD372085S (en) * | 1995-08-14 | 1996-07-23 | R. P. Scherer Corporation | Softgel capsule |
USD372974S (en) * | 1995-08-14 | 1996-08-20 | R.P. Scherer Corporation | Softgel capsule |
JPH0984525A (en) * | 1995-09-22 | 1997-03-31 | Kenji Kimura | Cachucha shaped frozen sweet |
USD443505S1 (en) * | 1998-09-25 | 2001-06-12 | Coty Inc. | Capsule |
USD463275S1 (en) * | 2000-04-25 | 2002-09-24 | Valois, Sa | Fluid product packaging |
USD512648S1 (en) * | 2004-12-15 | 2005-12-13 | Smith Judson L | Dispenser for fluid material |
USD547860S1 (en) * | 2005-12-21 | 2007-07-31 | Holopack International Corp. | Dispensing container with round nipple dispensing head |
-
2007
- 2007-05-22 US US11/752,281 patent/US20080099506A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-05-22 US US11/752,270 patent/US20080099351A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-05-22 US US11/752,274 patent/US20080099352A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-05-22 US US11/752,285 patent/US20080102174A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-05-22 US US11/752,277 patent/US20080102173A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2007-06-20 WO PCT/US2007/071664 patent/WO2008051636A1/en active Application Filing
Patent Citations (57)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USRE24621E (en) * | 1959-03-17 | Dispensing container for support upon an edge of a receptacle | ||
US1364763A (en) * | 1920-03-06 | 1921-01-04 | Houghton Myrtle | Milk-receptacle and cream-remover |
US2528530A (en) * | 1945-04-16 | 1950-11-07 | Paul Stiller | Paint container means and mixing preselected colored paints |
US2867536A (en) * | 1954-05-07 | 1959-01-06 | Mead Bruce Ronald | Flavor-containing drinking straw |
US2824010A (en) * | 1955-07-29 | 1958-02-18 | Carl G Pedersen | Flavor-containing milk container top |
US2789496A (en) * | 1955-12-12 | 1957-04-23 | Marion M Turner | Fruit slice holder and juice squeezer |
US3039644A (en) * | 1961-10-02 | 1962-06-19 | Lefcort Martin | Compartmented beverage container |
US3156369A (en) * | 1962-09-19 | 1964-11-10 | Ethicon Inc | Bicameral container |
US3199437A (en) * | 1963-02-25 | 1965-08-10 | Silas E Nelsen | Infusion apparatus |
US3275448A (en) * | 1963-08-26 | 1966-09-27 | Marshall H Sevin | Comestibles container with water soluble product therein |
US3305368A (en) * | 1963-12-09 | 1967-02-21 | Joseph G Bourelle | Beverage package |
US3326363A (en) * | 1965-11-08 | 1967-06-20 | Robert A Bennett | Lid type closure |
US3349966A (en) * | 1966-04-25 | 1967-10-31 | Schwartzman Gilbert | Two-part mixture package and applicator |
US3347410A (en) * | 1966-08-31 | 1967-10-17 | Schwartzman Gilbert | Mixing assemblies for applicators |
US3443726A (en) * | 1967-08-18 | 1969-05-13 | Nat Can Corp | Multiple element mixing and dispensing container |
US3603469A (en) * | 1968-04-11 | 1971-09-07 | Ambrogio Magni | Guarantee cap |
US3627177A (en) * | 1970-04-22 | 1971-12-14 | Knomark Inc | Dispenser combined with hanging clip for inverted support |
US3779372A (en) * | 1971-04-01 | 1973-12-18 | Lloret H De | Container for the components of mixed drinks |
US3752365A (en) * | 1971-11-01 | 1973-08-14 | M Coleman | Bath room mouth wash dispenser |
US4081560A (en) * | 1975-11-18 | 1978-03-28 | Ishigaki Shokuhin, Inc. | Instant milk-containing coffee |
US4221291A (en) * | 1978-06-20 | 1980-09-09 | General Foods Corporation | Container having separate storage facilities for two materials |
US4228928A (en) * | 1978-10-25 | 1980-10-21 | Northwest Sanitation Products, Inc. | Bottle with a clip for suspending the bottle in inverted position |
US4387809A (en) * | 1981-05-01 | 1983-06-14 | Botzler Paul C | Multi-compartment combination package and stirrer device |
US4776972A (en) * | 1984-04-04 | 1988-10-11 | Purex Corporation | Adjustable strength laundry bleaching using a two compartment package |
US4634003A (en) * | 1984-08-22 | 1987-01-06 | Suntory Limited | Container for accommodating two kinds of liquids |
US4789082A (en) * | 1986-12-22 | 1988-12-06 | Sampson Renick F | Container discharge control |
US4917237A (en) * | 1987-02-12 | 1990-04-17 | Imperial Chemical Industries Plc | System for introducing additive into a container |
US4816268A (en) * | 1987-08-14 | 1989-03-28 | Nutrasweet Co | Process for preparing a comestible containing stirrer straw and product thereof |
US4775060A (en) * | 1987-09-09 | 1988-10-04 | Tom Pinney | Animal straw holder |
US5052553A (en) * | 1989-09-27 | 1991-10-01 | Sanctis Attilio J De | Container having manually openable closure for mixing |
US5470601A (en) * | 1989-10-19 | 1995-11-28 | Robertson; James P. | Container for preparing and using alcoholic extracts |
US5114011A (en) * | 1990-08-31 | 1992-05-19 | Robbins Edward S Iii | Container assemblies with additive cups |
US5125534A (en) * | 1991-01-14 | 1992-06-30 | Rose Barry L | Beverage flavoring and dispensing apparatus and method of construction |
US5353955A (en) * | 1991-10-17 | 1994-10-11 | Kraft General Foods, Inc. | Beverage container |
US5419447A (en) * | 1993-12-14 | 1995-05-30 | Lim; Pak P. | Baby bottle |
USD365138S (en) * | 1994-12-08 | 1995-12-12 | Ramesh Puri | Toilet bowl cleaner dispenser |
US5669519A (en) * | 1996-03-28 | 1997-09-23 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Jug having a secondary bottle in the handle opening |
US5979647A (en) * | 1997-12-30 | 1999-11-09 | Han; Ki Su | Lid for container |
US6152362A (en) * | 1999-02-16 | 2000-11-28 | Rosenfeld; Julie H. | Food server and condiment holder |
US6230969B1 (en) * | 1999-03-17 | 2001-05-15 | Peter J. Spransy | Food container and sauce reservoir arrangement |
US6165523A (en) * | 1999-04-26 | 2000-12-26 | Story; Douglas | Injector bottle cap assembly |
US20010050283A1 (en) * | 1999-06-11 | 2001-12-13 | Gary Nance | Condiment cup |
US6610254B1 (en) * | 1999-08-10 | 2003-08-26 | S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. | Dual function dispenser |
US6234357B1 (en) * | 1999-08-30 | 2001-05-22 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Multipurpose carrying system for dispensing viscous liquid products |
US6179166B1 (en) * | 1999-10-12 | 2001-01-30 | Seaquist Closures Foreign, Inc. | Rod-supportable hanging container |
USD430492S (en) * | 1999-10-12 | 2000-09-05 | Seaquist Closures Foreign, Inc. | Rod-mountable dispensing container |
US6273283B1 (en) * | 2000-03-29 | 2001-08-14 | Frank P. Terrana | Clip-on bottles |
US6360944B1 (en) * | 2000-08-16 | 2002-03-26 | Charles Gorman | Food container with a foldable condiment holder |
US7017735B2 (en) * | 2001-04-26 | 2006-03-28 | The Coca-Cola Company | Dispensing cap with capsule for container |
US20030141269A1 (en) * | 2002-01-02 | 2003-07-31 | Mikelyn Roderick | Letter and number shaped bottle |
US6976578B1 (en) * | 2002-05-07 | 2005-12-20 | Antony Austin Kenihan | Dispensing lid closure for beverage container and method of making and using the closure |
US6779687B2 (en) * | 2002-08-16 | 2004-08-24 | Lisa Vallier | Squeezable juice dispenser for beverages |
US6708735B1 (en) * | 2002-12-11 | 2004-03-23 | Antony Austin Kenihan | Dispensing lid closure for confections and methods of making and using the closure |
US6964354B2 (en) * | 2003-10-22 | 2005-11-15 | Docian, S.L. | Double metering dispenser for hygienic substances |
US20080099506A1 (en) * | 2006-10-25 | 2008-05-01 | Yo! Brands, Llc | Liquid dispenser having multi-chamber interior liquid containment space |
US20080102173A1 (en) * | 2006-10-25 | 2008-05-01 | Yo! Brands, Llc | Method for dispensing liquid into drinking container with liquid dispenser mountable to drinking container |
US20080102174A1 (en) * | 2006-10-25 | 2008-05-01 | Yo! Brands, Llc | Liquid dispenser with mounting structure for drinking container |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20080099506A1 (en) | 2008-05-01 |
US20080099352A1 (en) | 2008-05-01 |
US20080102174A1 (en) | 2008-05-01 |
US20080102173A1 (en) | 2008-05-01 |
WO2008051636A1 (en) | 2008-05-02 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US5671503A (en) | Attachable storage handle for beverage container | |
US6840373B2 (en) | Beverage storage and discharge cap assembly | |
US7614513B2 (en) | Inner container attachable to primary container cap | |
US6648217B2 (en) | Spill-proof disposable cup with integral sealing flap | |
US20140346063A1 (en) | Programmable liquid containers | |
US6644471B1 (en) | Dispensing capsule for a liquid container | |
US6886686B2 (en) | Dispensing capsule for a liquid container | |
US20040195120A1 (en) | Dispensing capsule for a liquid container | |
US8376135B1 (en) | Container with liquid for attachment to and mixing with poured liquid of conventional can | |
JP2004203491A (en) | Device for separately maintaining additive from liquid food product | |
US20040104247A1 (en) | Dispensing capsule for a liquid container | |
US20080023503A1 (en) | Liquid-dispensing compartmented lid | |
US20080099352A1 (en) | Drinking container with liquid dispenser mounted thereon | |
US6324864B1 (en) | Chiller arrangement for drink receptacles | |
US20130043149A1 (en) | Cap for Drinking Container | |
US5810194A (en) | Collapsible bowl-like container | |
US20040076074A1 (en) | Combination container, dispenser, and stirrer | |
US6616033B1 (en) | Spill-proof disposable cup with integral sealing flap | |
US20050224495A1 (en) | Spill resistant lid | |
US20040149598A1 (en) | Beverage container | |
KR200443066Y1 (en) | One Time Packing Courage for Soluble or Extract Drink | |
US20220063866A1 (en) | Customizable personalized individual beverage bottle | |
WO2000012404A1 (en) | Combined drinking vessel and container | |
AU2011200218A1 (en) | Multi Compartment Container | |
US11952258B2 (en) | Flavoring dispenser for a beverage container |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: YO| BRANDS, LLC, NORTH CAROLINA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:JAMISON, PAUL;BIZZELL, DANIEL LEE;STANCOMBE, TODD;REEL/FRAME:019604/0049;SIGNING DATES FROM 20070625 TO 20070716 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |