Including Drinking Vessel Patents (Class 206/217)
  • Patent number: 7066322
    Abstract: A beverage cup having a detachable saliva reservoir so that a user may enjoy a beverage and smokeless tobacco products simultaneously. The cup has a saliva conduit running from its upper extremity down to a saliva reservoir which screws on the bottom. The upper portion of the conduit is formed into a mouthpiece which allows the user to easily deposit the saliva without the risk of it contaminating the contents of the cup. The beverage within the cup and the saliva reservoir are separated by an internal bulkhead. Cleaning is facilitated by the fact that the reservoir screws off the bottom. Both the cup and the reservoir can then be placed in a dishwasher or washed by hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Christopher A. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7025199
    Abstract: An apparatus for containing a food and beverage includes a substantially flat stock, for example, cardboard or fiberboard that includes a plurality of perimeter panels that are folded into a three-dimensional apparatus. When formed, the apparatus includes a compartment for holding a food and a beverage. A beverage retaining member attaches in any of a variety of ways where desired to any of the panels to secure various sizes of beverage containers in an upright position on top of a center panel. The outer perimeter panels are each attached on one edge thereof to the center panel and interlock with each other during assembly to prevent accidental opening of the apparatus. A notch is provided to accept a thumb of a user and a semi-spherical opening is provided to receive a napkin or utensil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: Edmond Heng Lim
  • Patent number: 7021781
    Abstract: A chemiluminescent vessel is constructed from a double walled assembly which forms a sealed walled cavity containing a first chemiluminescent fluid. A compressible toroidal tube defines a sealed tube cavity containing a second chemiluminescent fluid. A frangible barrier separates the tube cavity from the wall cavity. A sidewall, attached to the double walled assembly and terminating in a neck that has a fluid opening, forms an inner container holding a beverage fluid. An inner cap forms a sealed closure with the neck of the inner container. An outer cap contains the inner cap and extends to shield the compressible toroidal tube from accidental compression. In one aspect, the first and second chemiluminescent fluids are selected to produce a specific color connoting a characteristic of the beverage contained in the inner container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventors: Liran B. Cohen, Alon Brand
  • Patent number: 7017736
    Abstract: A chemiluminescent vessel is constructed from a double walled assembly which forms a sealed walled cavity containing a first chemiluminescent fluid. A compressible toroidal tube defines a sealed tube cavity containing a second chemiluminescent fluid. A frangible barrier separates the tube cavity from the wall cavity. A sidewall, attached to the double walled assembly and terminating in a neck that has a fluid opening, forms an inner container holding a beverage fluid. An inner cap forms a sealed closure with the neck of the inner container. An outer cap contains the inner cap and extends to shield the compressible toroidal tube from accidental compression. In one aspect, the first and second chemiluminescent fluids are selected to produce a specific color connoting a characteristic of the beverage contained in the inner container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Inventors: Liran B. Cohen, Alon Brand
  • Patent number: 7008656
    Abstract: A carton for storing and serving a self-heating meal and a beverage container includes a closable first compartment for storing and heating the meal. The first compartment has a first top wall and a first flap covering a first opening to the first compartment and a first securing means for releasably securing the first flap in a first closed position. The carton includes a second compartment for storing the beverage container and has a hole in a second top wall of the second compartment for holding the beverage container. An exemplary embodiment of the invention includes a second flap attached to the second top wall covers a second opening to the second compartment. A third compartment in the carton is disposed between the first and second compartments wherein the third compartment is open along a top side of the carton.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: The HeaterMeals Company
    Inventors: Donald T. Zimmerman, Jr., William S. Smith, Jr., Andrew B. McLandrich
  • Patent number: 7004314
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a multi-product container and container blank. In accordance with the present invention, a single sheet of foldable material is cut and scored to define a container blank. The blank includes a bottom panel, a front panel, a back panel, opposed side panels and a plurality of corner panels. Also, a top panel is attached to the back panel opposite said bottom panel. A fold over divider panel assembly that includes a cup panel attached to the front panel opposite said bottom panel and a divider panel attached to said cup panel opposite said front panel. A cup receptacle formed in said cup panel. The divider panel includes a divider panel slot positioned opposite the cup panel. Also, a side panel slot is formed in each of the side panels at a location opposite the bottom panel. As formed, the front panel, back panel opposed side panels and plurality of corner panels are hingedly attached to said bottom panel via unperforated score lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser Company
    Inventors: Robert J. Pucillo, Alex D. Bevier
  • Patent number: 6988614
    Abstract: A disposable folding food tray having container ports for mounting to a beverage container. The disposable tray is mounted to the beverage container such that the consumer need only hold the bottom portion of the container in one hand in order to support the food tray. The food tray includes a food support area the size and shape of which can be adjusted to accommodate any desired food item. The food tray need only have sufficient strength to support the food item, not the beverage container, thereby significantly reducing the amount and strength of material needed for the tray. The tray is convenient in that one of the consumer's hand is always free, and the tray can be configured to fold into either a right handed or left handed version. The folding food tray can be conveniently and inexpensively made from a single piece of cardboard and supplied to the site of use in a generally flat configuration. Folding to the final configuration is conveniently accomplished at the site of use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventors: George F. Hemingway, George F. Hemingway, II
  • Patent number: 6989168
    Abstract: A container for vending single servings of beverages and snack foods, includes a liquid-impermeable wall providing a compartment for the beverage. An inside section of the wall defines a recess isolated from the compartment and open to the container exterior at the bottom. Near the upper end of the recess, the inside wall diameter is decreased in steps, to frictionally engage a leading edge region of a snack-food cartridge or other product inserted into the recess. A pull tab between the cartridge and the recess is accessible to remove the cartridge. Alternatively, a cartridge wrapper can be shaped to provide a pull tab component. The preferred snack-food cartridge includes a compliant thin film or foil wrapping surrounding a stack of cookies, a bar, or other snack food. In alternative arrangements, the container has a vertical slot for viewing a cartridge inserted into the recess, or is formed with horizontal top and bottom wall sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Inventor: Lonnie J. Fahey
  • Patent number: 6964443
    Abstract: A beverage holding device has a panel with a plurality of slots opening at a peripheral edge thereof and at least one support member extending downwardly from a bottom surface of the panel. Each of the slots has a generally C-shaped configuration and opens to the peripheral edge of the panel. The slots serve to receive drink containers therein. The support member can nest within a support member of an underlying beverage holding device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Inventor: Edward R. Newton
  • Patent number: 6945416
    Abstract: An item is stored by placing the item within an opaque sleeve with opposed open ends and inserting into each of the open ends a bottle holding a consumable liquid. The bottles fit snug within the sleeve and each bottle is independently removable from the sleeve and reinsertable therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: Robert C. Manno
  • Patent number: 6943331
    Abstract: A microwave oven includes a saucer holder, and a saucer used with the microwave oven. The saucer holder is provided on the external surface of the microwave oven. The saucer removably engages with the saucer holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jeong-Hee Lee
  • Patent number: 6932231
    Abstract: A spill-resistant beverage cup lid which includes a well for adding liquid or powder condiments to a hot beverage and which also serves as a drinking portal is described. The well includes a plurality of apertures in a side wall of the well allowing the condiments to mix with the beverage. In an alternative embodiment, the well further includes a removable flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventors: Kevin Haynes, Michael Pallotta
  • Patent number: 6932214
    Abstract: A disposable fast food box/container with a pair of semi-circular handles for convenient carrying and a drink holder therein. The handles include strap portions that are attached to the lid that allow a vehicle seat belt to be passed thereunder and serve to hold the lid in an open position close to the chest of the user. The lid includes a pair of side flaps that cooperate with the lid portion for directing any crumbs generated during eating into the box/container directly below thus eliminating the usual mess that occurs during eating in a vehicle. The drink holder includes a conical flexible wall portion that becomes inverted when engaged by the base of a drink container bringing the conical flexible wall into engagement with conical outer surface of the drink container to stabilize drink container therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventor: Dave Zimet
  • Patent number: 6921179
    Abstract: A drinking vessel is provided with an insulated wall structure including an inner wall, an outer wall, and a void between the inner and outer walls providing an insulative barrier for maintaining the temperature of the liquid contents within a desired range for extended periods of time, while also preventing the formation of condensation on the outside of the vessel. Luminescent elements, such as shapes, letters, numbers or designs, are applied to the insulated wall structure to enhance visibility of the drinking vessel and the level of liquid beverage contents when in dark or low light conditions. In an alternative embodiment, the luminescent material is incorporated into the composition of the wall structure during the molding process. A removable lid may be provided for covering the open top of the drinking vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Worry Free Inventions, Inc.
    Inventor: Darlene Diak Ghanem
  • Patent number: 6912825
    Abstract: A flexible stand-up liquid pouch is formed from a sheet of foil film laminate material whereby opposed side walls of the material are folded together with sealed circumferential edges to form an enclosed chamber. A liquid is provided in the chamber, and the side walls of the sheet material which form the container have raised portions which, when sealed together, cooperatively form an internal straw restraining passage inside the container. The straw restraining passage communicates with the liquid chamber and a straw is held loosely captive inside the straw restraining passage and is axially displaceable therein. The straw restraining passage defines a reduced cross-sectional area of the chamber, and the pouch is manufactured with a weakened portion on an upper portion of the pouch, whereby the weakened portion can be torn by a user, thus enabling the internal straw to emerge, due to the buoyancy of the straw, from the interior of the pouch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Inventor: Rahul A. Kothari
  • Patent number: 6913777
    Abstract: A portable, single-use container for separately containing a first and second consumable products. The container includes a first compartment and a second compartment. The first compartment tapers at an upper portion thereof to form a spout. The spout facilitates dispensing of a contained first consumable product from the first compartment. The second compartment, in turn, tapers at an upper portion thereof to form a mouth. The mouth facilitates dispensing of a second consumable product from the second compartment. The first and second compartments are assembled to one another in a side-by-side fashion such that the spout abuts the mouth. With this configuration, during use, a first consumable product and a second consumable product can be dispensed from the container in close proximity to one another for convenient consumption. In one preferred embodiment, the first compartment contains a volume of milk and the second compartment contains a quantity of cereal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: General Mills, Inc.
    Inventors: John P. Rebhorn, Stephen P. Belko, Pamela A. Hodulik
  • Patent number: 6872116
    Abstract: An improved baby bottle adapted with handles and a sound-generating module for generating audible sounds. A generally cylindrical baby bottle is adapted with longitudinally extending slots on opposing sides of the bottle. The slots receive and retain a removable handle assembly having first and second opposing handles that facilitate holding of the bottle while feeding. Additionally, the handle assembly includes a portion adapted for receiving an interchangeable sound-generating module in removable engagement therewith. The sound-generating module includes a battery power source, memory chip, speaker, and electrical circuitry required to selectively produce sounds when disposed on the handle assembly. The sound module may be adapted to play single or multiple songs such as the ABC song or lullabies, or may be configured for educational purposes such as number counting lessons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventors: Christopher Dunnum, Michael M. Anthony
  • Patent number: 6854490
    Abstract: A flexible pouch with a self-contained straw for packaging a product includes a front panel and a back panel each having an upper edge, a lower edge opposite the upper edge, and side edges extending therebetween the upper and lower edges. A straw is disposed inside the pouch at an angle between an upper corner of the pouch and an opposite lower corner. The pouch includes a first seal applied to the upper corner of the pouch to form a pocket for holding an upper end of the straw, and a second seal extending along the unsealed portion of the upper edge of the pouch to close the pouch. A method of forming and filling a flexible pouch with an integral straw includes the steps of forming each of the panels and joining two panels by sealing together their side edges and lower edge to form the pouch. The method also includes the steps of opening the pouch and inserting the straw into the pouch by positioning the straw at an angle between an upper corner of the pouch and an opposite lower corner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: PPL Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: R. Charles Murray
  • Publication number: 20040262173
    Abstract: A container is disclosed that includes an elongate bottle having an exterior wall which defines an elongate internal primary chamber, a mouth opening at a first end of the elongate bottle in communication with the primary chamber, and a closed end portion at a second end of the elongate bottle; an end cap having a cap wall which defines a cap opening at one end of the end cap, a portion of the cap wall adjacent the end cap opening being at least partially attached to the exterior wall of the elongate bottle to form a secondary chamber isolated from the primary chamber; a primary closure adapted to cooperate with the elongate bottle mouth opening for enclosing the primary chamber; and a medication situated within the secondary chamber. The primary chamber is sized to retain liquid and the secondary chamber is sized to retain the medication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Scott Buesching, Jeff Temple, John E. Nemazi
  • Publication number: 20040262174
    Abstract: A container comprising a wall and base portion for partially defining a volume, an opening opposite the base portion, and a grommet attached to the opening. The grommet is adapted to cooperate with an elongate bottle by gripping a portion of the exterior wall of the elongate bottle, and the internal chamber is sized to retain a wipe member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Scott Buesching, Jeff Temple, John E. Nemazi
  • Patent number: 6830147
    Abstract: A combination of a beverage container and a case for storing a compact disc, with the compact disc case being affixed to the beverage container. The combination also provides multiple options for accessing the compact disc from the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Francis Ford Coppola
  • Patent number: 6817951
    Abstract: An improved novelty item is disclosed. The novelty item has a container that receives a solid piece of carbon dioxide when the solid carbon dioxide contacts water vapor in the container a fog is created. As the solid carbon dioxide sublimates, the water vapor is emitted from the container as a visible fog. The container may be in the shape of any number of designs for which the visible fog streaming from the container creates a pleasing illusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Steven Levine
  • Patent number: 6814229
    Abstract: A bottle adapter includes a connector having a containment region for holding a composition and an internal threaded portion that engages threads on a bottle neck and has an opening in fluid communication with the containment region. An upper end of the connector has an aperture that is in fluid communication with the containment region. The adapter also includes a first seal for sealing an opening in the threaded portion and a second seal for sealing the aperture. In use a removal of the first seal permits fluid communication between the containment region and fluid in the bottle, permitting the formation of a mixture. A removal of the second seal permits the mixture to be dispensed. Methods for storing a composition for subsequent mixing with a fluid and for delivering a mixture of a composition and a fluid are also addressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Belle Bottles LLC
    Inventor: Allison Seckler
  • Patent number: 6814990
    Abstract: A portable beverage system is provided for allowing consumers to combine one or more portions of beverage or other concentrates with a liquid to form a drink. The system includes an inner storage container for the portions and an outer container for mixing the portions with a liquid. The portions may contain beverage concentrates, soup flavorings and spices, or nutritional additives, such as herbs, vitamins, and minerals. Different portions may be provided with system, allowing consumers to make drinks customizable according to personal preferences. The portions may be provided in capsules, gelatin compositions, or other forms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2004
    Assignee: Kraft Foods Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Xiaoqing Suzy Zeng
  • Publication number: 20040211684
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of systems and methods for storing and distributing promotional items to consumers. In one embodiment, a system comprises a container having an openable orifice on a portion of the container. In this embodiment, the system further includes a cover piece removeably coupled over the orifice, where the coupled cover piece creates an enclosed storage space between the openable orifice and the cover piece. In addition, the system for storing promotional items includes a promotional item housed in the enclosed storage space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth McClintock
  • Publication number: 20040200738
    Abstract: An elastically deformable valve with automatic closure applicable to containers of fluids which are dispensed through said valve when the container is manually squeezed to pressurize the fluid contained therein, the valve being formed of a single piece of moulded elastic material and presenting cuts defining flexible appendices which flex outwards from the container during fluid dispensing and reclose against themselves to close the valve when at rest.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Applicant: CAPSOL BERRY PLASTICS S.p.A.
    Inventors: Ivan Rovelli, Angelo Garibaldi
  • Publication number: 20040200739
    Abstract: ACCESSORY FOR DRINKING GLASSES that cools and maintains the temperature of the glass contents thanks to the presence of a thermal clamp (1), at the same time providing protection from the direct action of the sun to the external surface, in addition acting as an advertising or informative carrier. In order to do this it is constructed from a thermal clamp (1) that is adapted to the shape of the glass (2) having an extension at one point along its perimeter (3) with some union elements (4) at the free end for the connection of the rod (5), at the other end of which there are some connection elements (6) for the fixing of the body (7) that acts as the advertising or informative element. In turn, the rod (5) has a connection element (8) at a point on its perimeter which clips onto the rim of the glass to prevent the thermal clamp (1) sliding down the glass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: Miguel Gonzalez Escobar
  • Publication number: 20040195118
    Abstract: A beverage cup lid, having integrally therein a series of compartments, of varying but more precise sizes, to furnish concise measuring and dispensing of various flavoring agents into the cup contained beverage, whether it be a tea, coffee, or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Charles Goralnik
  • Publication number: 20040195117
    Abstract: A food/drink container having a closure for closing the container and a multimedia module responsive to opening the container, the multimedia module including a speaker and a projection unit for projecting an image or a movie viewable from the outside of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Erez Brand
  • Publication number: 20040178086
    Abstract: A drink pack position-keeping device of the present invention keeps a drink pack in a drink container at the reasonable location and the drink pack can easily be taken out from the drink container any time. The drink pack position-keeping device of the present invention comprises a stopper, a suspending unit and an attaching unit. The drink pack containing an object to be infiltrated is attached to the suspending unit with the attaching unit. When the drink pack position-keeping device is attached to the drink container, the stopper is placed on the entire rim of the upper end of the mouth of the drink container, and the drink pack suspending from the stopper is located at the predetermined length lower than the liquid level in the drink container. Accordingly, the drink pack is prevented from going to the bottom of the drink container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventor: Takashi Sawaguchi
  • Publication number: 20040169043
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a packaging for liquids (1). It consists essentially of a body (2) with a parallelepiped format whose height to width ratio is less than 1 and it has a lower inner part consisting of two planes (3) that are slightly inclined towards the central part in order to facilitate the suction of the liquid, and an upper surface with a central area (4) with an opening (5) and the respective cover (6) which, when removed, allows the inside of the packaging to be accessed, as well as its liquid through a telescopic tube (7). This packaging can also contain a gift place inside, at the bottom which is duly protected from contact with the liquid and is accessed after the liquid has been drunk by breaking the brittle area (14) of the upper surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Mario Jose Alegria Neves
  • Publication number: 20040159577
    Abstract: The present invention provides a carrier which includes a handle, a first support and a second support. The first and second supports are attached to each other and to the handle. Each support has a food aperture and beverage aperture which are located on the same sides of the first and second supports. The handle has a carrying aperture for carrying the carrier and an inside cavity for receiving promotional items. The carrying aperture of the handle is formed on the handle such that a center of the beverage aperture crosses the carrying aperture. The inside cavity is sized and configured to receive a three or five inch compact disk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventor: Anthony L. Hunter
  • Publication number: 20040149598
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for ingesting a beverage and then administering a breath freshener. A disposable container is provided. The container includes a bottom. The bottom has an interior surface contacted by a liquid dispensed into the container. The bottom also has an exterior surface. A breath freshener is removably attached to the exterior surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Scarla
  • Patent number: 6766902
    Abstract: A container assembly for three dimensional premium item mounted removably to a beverage cup for handling as a single unit has a clear, plastic cover member, and first and second base members. The first base member is formed with a gift containing well which is closed by a clear flat top panel of the cover member by assembly of the first base member therein. The second base member releasably attaches to the bottom of the first base member to define a collectible card receiving compartment and has a flat topped bottom recess which can receive the top panel of another assembly to enable the container assemblies to be stably stacked on top of each other. The second base member is a press fit on the lid of a standard large beverage cup to releasably mount the container assembly thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Mark E. Hartelius
  • Publication number: 20040129665
    Abstract: A merchandising method employs containers and a figurine that is one of a series of different figurines all having a common theme. Individual containers holding the same product enable the product to be removed from the container through a port therein. Covering the port of each individual container is a removable cap with a figurine attached to the cap. The cap serves as a stand for the figurine upon removal of the cap. A plurality of the containers with different figurines attached to the caps thereof are distributed, each figurine conforming to the common theme.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Publication date: July 8, 2004
    Inventor: Joyce E. Cavan
  • Publication number: 20040118708
    Abstract: A container (1) for drink is provided with a top (2) and with an outlet (4) that is located at the top and is connected to a flexible dispensing line (5), the container having a chamber (32) at the top in which the dispensing line (5) is accommodated. The dispensing line (5) is provided at its outlet end (6) with a grip element (30) that is located in or close to a cut-out (35) in the peripheral wall. By positioning the flexible tube in the chamber this tube can be hygienically protected from the environment during storage and transport of the container and mechanical damage thereto is prevented, whilst easy handling remains possible. The chamber (32) can be closed by a lid (52).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Marcel Peter Magermans, Piet Hein Willem Timp
  • Patent number: 6747918
    Abstract: A drinking vessel includes a timer coupled to a sidewall of the vessel and having an actuator protruding from the vessel which controls the timer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventors: Nathaniel L. Hight, Brian P. Trimm, Thomas S. Reynolds, II
  • Patent number: 6719138
    Abstract: A cover device for covering a baby bottle. The device includes a cloth bottle cover that has a closed bottom end and an open top end. A pocket is disposed on the cloth bottle cover. An audible signal generator is provided that is placed in the pocket of the cloth bottle cover. The audible signal generator creates an audible signal when press-activated. The bottle cover with the audible signal generator is advanced over a baby bottle. The bottle cover provides a medium by which a child can better grasp the bottle. Furthermore, the bottle cover insulates the bottle and absorbs drips from the bottle. The audible signal generator is activated when a child presses against the cover above the audible signal generator. As such, the use of the present invention adds visual and audible interest to a baby bottle as well as making the bottle easier to hold and use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventors: Kathleen Austin, Jeffrey R Austin, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040065565
    Abstract: A container for a liquid is disclosed, generally comprising an elongate bottle having an exterior wall which defines an elongate internal primary chamber and a primary mouth opening at one end of the bottle in communication with the primary chamber, the other end of the bottle having a recess formed in the exterior wall projecting generally coaxially into the primary chamber to form a secondary chamber isolated therefrom having a secondary mouth opening axially opposite the primary mouth opening; a primary closure adapted to cooperate with the primary chamber for enclosing the primary chamber; a secondary closure adapted to cooperate with the secondary chamber for enclosing the secondary chamber; and a wipe member placed within the secondary chamber. The primary chamber can retain liquid being enclosed therein by the primary closure. The secondary chamber can retain the wipe member being enclosed therein by the secondary closure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Applicant: Cool Cloth, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Scott Buesching, Jeff Temple, John E. Nemazi
  • Publication number: 20040060830
    Abstract: A microwave oven includes a saucer holder, and a saucer used with the microwave oven. The saucer holder is provided on the external surface of the microwave oven. The saucer removably engages with the saucer holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Jeong-Hee Lee
  • Patent number: 6708735
    Abstract: A lid closure for dispensing a confection into a refreshment, such as a milk shake, in a container comprises first and second molded lid parts with the first lid part having a central opening into which the second lid part is removably inserted. A sealing layer with a circular tear line encloses the confection in an annular compartment in the first lid part and is attached to the second lid part at the center of the sealing layer. The second lid part has two pockets for engagement by the thumb and forefinger of a consumer. To dispense the confection into the refreshment, the consumer twists the second lid part to tear the sealing layer along the tear line and removes the second lid part and a portion of the sealing layer from the central opening in the first lid part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Antony Austin Kenihan
  • Publication number: 20040050847
    Abstract: A lid for a beverage container, comprising: a container attachment portion for removable association with the rim of an associated liquid container in a snug liquid-tight relation, an annular cover panel portion extending radially inwardly from the container attachment portion, an opening in the annular cover panel portion to permit insertion of straw while the container attachment portion is attached to an associated container, and a sauce compartment in the annular cover panel portion to provide an vacant area for sauce, said sauce compartment is sunken-in from the annular cover panel portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Young Gul Yoon
  • Publication number: 20040050724
    Abstract: The invention concerns a carrier of information that is releasably affixed to a container, such as a beverage can. The carrier of information may be a small diameter compact disk (CD), or a token, for example. The CD may contain music, video images, games or competitions, or the token may carry printed images, competitions and the like. A consumer may select the promotional system, such as a can of soft drink with a small CD fixed to it, allowing the drink within the container to be enjoyed, along with the CD once it is removed from the can. The system may also include an adaptor to hold the CD, and allow it to be placed into a standard CD player. A method of promotion of a product utilizing this promotional system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventors: Derek John Grul, Allan John Dickins, Ian Taylor Reid, Rohan MacArthur Onslow
  • Publication number: 20040031797
    Abstract: Beverage container lid assemblies provide a combined premium display area and cooling/insulating structure for the beverage container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventors: Donald S. Farnsworth, John Nava
  • Patent number: 6688469
    Abstract: A molded plastics pot (10) for containing food has a base (13) and a side wall (14). A plastic utensil such as a spoon (16) to assist the consumption of food contained in the pot (10) is molded integrally with the pot, and is hinged by the end of the handle (17) to the upper or lower end of the pot. The length of the utensil is more or less equal to the depth of the pot and the side wall (14) of the pot has a recess (15) in which the utensil can be accommodated, nibs (20) serving to retain the utensil in the recess until required for use. Then, the utensil (16) may be pulled out of the recess (15) and broken away from the hinge (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Susan Marie Barnes
  • Patent number: 6688462
    Abstract: Combined packages including a plurality of complementary containers are disclosed. A first such container is a first generally rectanguloidal container that contains a first item and a second such container is a second generally rectanguloidal container that contains a second item that is different from and complementary to the first item. A packaging material at least partially surrounds each of the containers, thus holding the container in mutual abutment. A combined package can also include an adhesive between the containers that holds a face of the first container and a face of the second container in mutual abutment. To facilitate palletizing the combined packages, the overall shape of the combined package can be generally rectanguloidal. The first container can have a plurality of faces, each of which is generally coplanar with a respective face of the second container. Apparatus and methods for manufacturing such combined packages are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Inventor: Forrest Kelly Clay
  • Publication number: 20040011679
    Abstract: The invention provides a dispense closure for a fluid receptacle. The closure includes a cap configured to engage the fluid receptacle threadably. The cap includes at least one aperture. The closure also includes a blister pack having at least one blister thereon. The blister contains an additive and is insertable through the aperture in the cap upon coupling the blister pack and cap. The closure further includes a retainer ring coupled to the cap. The retainer ring supports the blister pack in the cap and seals the cap and fluid receptacle together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: James A. Vlodek
  • Patent number: 6675960
    Abstract: The holder for an optical disc comprises a sheet of plastic material deformed to include a flat generally circular or annular portion having an outer circular edge and an inner circular edge; an at least partially annular first flange portion depending from the outer circular edge a short distance to an inwardly extending first detent formation and an at least partially annular second flange portion depending from the inner circular edge a short distance to an outwardly extending second detent formation, the holder being adapted to receive an optical disc against the flat circular portion and between the first and second flange portions and held in that location by the first and second detent formations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: John Innis
  • Publication number: 20030213707
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for manufacturing snack food hanging pouches, and for combining beverage containers and snack food hanging pouches, are disclosed. A combined beverage and snack food package according to the invention can include a beverage container and a snack food hanging pouch that is suspended from the protrusion of the beverage container. A snack food hanging pouch according to the invention can include a pouch portion that is adapted to contain a snack food item, and a hanger portion that is attached to the pouch portion, having a hanging hole that is adapted to fit onto the protrusion of a beverage container. The pouch portion can be adapted to contain a loose snack food item or a packaged snack food item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventor: Forrest Kelly Clay
  • Patent number: 6647696
    Abstract: An elongated packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped media such as a CD-ROM or DVD, together with a cup-type beverage container of the kind typically having a cover with a central straw opening. The packaging device includes a cylindrical lid adapted to receive and retain a disc-shaped media, which cylindrical lid is then engaged to the beverage container. The lid includes a cylindrical support structure disposed on the upper surface thereof defining central support for the disc media by means of the annular opening at the center of the disc, such that the disc media is allowed to rotate, while limiting the linear movement of the disc media. The cylindrical support structure includes an opening so as to allow the passage therethrough of a straw. The lid also includes an annular shelf around the perimeter thereof, the inside diameter of which is larger than the outside diameter of the disc media, and the peak of which is coplanar with the peak of the inner structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Avecmedia Inc.
    Inventors: Alexandra Gordon, Charles W. Grimes, William L. Plumb