Method of promoting bottled beverage products using individual bottle coolers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method of promoting bottled beverage products by promoting an individual bottle cooler made specifically for that bottled beverage product. The bottle cooler preferably comprises a container for containing ice and/or water that is adapted to have the beverage bottle positioned substantially therein, wherein regular ice and/or water from standard ice dispensers can be stored and sealed within the space between the bottle and container, to help keep the beverage inside cool. The space is preferably substantially sealed by a cap which is adapted with an opening and a sealing member that extends over the neck of the bottle, wherein the bottle can be held in substantial compression between the sealing member and one or more supporting surfaces extending substantially underneath the bottle.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/298,613, filed on Nov. 19, 2002; Ser. No. 10/066,656, filed on Feb. 6, 2002; and Ser. No. 09/983,107, filed on Oct. 23, 2001, which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to the field of business methods, and in particular, to a method of promoting bottled beverage products using individual bottle coolers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Commercial bottled beverage products, such as soda, juice, fruit drinks, sports drinks, water, beer, etc., are often sold in bottles made of PET or glass. Over the past ten years, PET bottles, in particular, have become increasingly popular. For example, between 1990 and 2000, sales of single serving 20 ounce PET carbonated soft drink products in this country increased ten-fold, with sales exceeding 14 billion units during the year 2001 alone. Over 4 billion units of 2 liter size bottles were sold in 2001.

[0004] In the 20 ounce single serving market, competition is particularly significant because of the high profit margins involved. For example, each 20 ounce bottle can retail for between $0.99 to $1.49 or more per bottle, and the beverage companies can make as much as $0.50 to $0.60 for each bottle sold. What this means is that for the beverage companies the total market for single serving 20 ounce carbonated soft drink bottles in this country may be more than $8 billion annually. And, of this amount, the largest soft drink manufacturers, such as Pepsi® and Coke®, each have a huge share, i.e., possibly more than 40% each. Moreover, when taking into account sales of bottled water, sport drinks, fruit drinks, iced teas, etc., these numbers are even higher.

[0005] These figures help show why beverage companies are willing to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on advertising to promote their products. Pepsi, for example, spent millions to pay celebrities like Michael Jackson and Brittney Spears to do television commercials, as well as produced advertising campaigns designed to prove that their products taste better, i.e., the Pepsi Challenge. Coke, on the other hand, is one of the most widely recognized trademarks in the world, and Coke brand names and logos can be seen everywhere on promotional products of every kind.

[0006] One of the ways that beverage companies promote their products is through the use of promotional drink-ware, such as cups, mugs, sports bottles, etc., with the beverage company's brand name and logos on them. The rationale behind using these types of promotional products is that they are likely to keep the brand names and logos of the beverage company at the top of the consumers' minds. These methods, however, are only used in connection, with fountain drinks, i.e., fountain drinks are served in the containers, or the customers fill the containers at the fountain drink dispenser. At the present time, promotional drink-ware products made specifically for bottled beverage products, except possibly insulated foam sleeves, are not available.

[0007] One of the drawbacks of single serving 20 ounce PET bottles is that while consumers like the fact that there is more beverage in each bottle, it is often more difficult to keep the beverage cold. On a warm sunny day, for example, or inside a hot car, exposure to high temperatures can quickly make bottled beverages warm and undrinkable. Single serving 20 ounce sizes, due to having more beverage in each bottle than aluminum cans, and being made of a clear PET material, are especially susceptible to becoming warm quickly. Many other larger sizes, such as two liter, 64 ounce, etc., are also susceptible.

[0008] Ice chests have been used in the past, but ice chests are often too large, and therefore, cumbersome, especially if only a single bottle of beverage is desired. Large ice chests can also raise security issues. Cups, mugs, sports bottles, etc., have also been popular, but, as mentioned above, these containers aren't designed to keep “bottled” beverages cold. They also suffer from the following disadvantages: they dilute the beverage as the ice melts, introduce impurities into the beverage (from melting unfiltered ice cubes), and allow carbonation to dissipate. The containers also have to be washed after each use, i.e., they can be unsanitary, and, even when lids are available, are not completely leak-proof.

[0009] The growing popularity of PET bottles suggests that the beverage industry would be interested in finding a way to promote sales of bottled beverage products, particularly given the high profit margins involved. What is needed, therefore, is a method of using bottle coolers, such as those discussed in applicant's previous related applications, as well as other types of bottle coolers, which overcome the disadvantages of cups, mugs, sports bottles, etc., as a means of promoting sales of bottled beverage products.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In Applicant's previous application Ser. No. 10/066,656, entitled “A new and improved method and apparatus for keeping beverages cold using an assembly for holding ice and water,” an individual bottle cooler was disclosed in which a single bottle of beverage could be held therein, wherein standard ice cubes, such as crushed, chopped, diced, etc., could be stored and sealed within the space between the container and bottle, to keep the beverage in the bottle cold. The container was preferably sized and shaped so that a beverage bottle of a predetermined size and shape could be held inside, with one or more supports for the lower end of the bottle, wherein a cap with an opening therein could be used to seal the container, with the neck of the bottle extending through the cap. A sealing member on the cap could then be pressed and substantially sealed against the shoulder of the bottle, to prevent ice and water in the space from leaking out. This way, ice and water could be maintained in direct contact with the bottle, and the beverage could be maintained at a reduced temperature, without diluting or introducing contaminants into the beverage, and carbonation could be preserved. The beverage could also be poured, served and consumed without having to take the bottle out of the ice (and container).

[0011] The subject of the present invention is related to the bottle cooler described previously, and relates to a business method that uses bottle coolers of that type. More specifically, in the preferred embodiment, the method uses bottle coolers that are made to accommodate a particular beverage bottle having a predetermined size and shape, wherein by promoting such bottle coolers, beverage companies and sellers of beverages can promote the particular bottled beverage products that the bottle coolers were designed to fit, since consumers that want to use the bottle coolers would have to buy those bottled beverage products, and no other bottled beverage products, to do so.

[0012] PET bottles come in a variety of different sizes and shapes, even for the same volume bottle. For example, Coca-Cola® currently uses 20 ounce bottles that have a tapered neck, whereas Pepsi® uses 20 ounce bottles that are bubble-like with swirls. A unique aspect of the present invention is that the bottle coolers can be made so that they allow only a particular type of bottle to fit properly, i.e., a Coke® 20 ounce bottle, whereas other bottles, such as a Pepsi® 20 ounce bottle, or other competitor's bottle, would not fit, or allow water to leak out.

[0013] For example, in the preferred embodiment, the bottle cooler can be adapted so that the intended bottle can be held in substantial compression between the lower support and a sealing member on the inside of the cap that can be pressed and sealed against the shoulder of the bottle. This allows the seal on the bottle to be made at the “seal point,” which is located on the shoulder where the sealing member presses and seals against the bottle. Because the seal point is different on most bottles, an important aspect of the present invention is that the bottle cooler can be designed specifically to fit a particular bottle having a particular size and shape, wherein other bottles having different seal points would either not allow the cap to be tightened properly, or would allow water in the cooler to leak. Moreover, the bottle cooler can be provided with other adaptations, such as a sealing member with a predetermined size and shape adapted for a particular bottle, as well as a lower support that would fit properly into grooves, indentations or other formations on only certain types of bottles and not others.

[0014] In one aspect of the present invention, a beverage company (including a beverage manufacturer, bottler, supplier, etc.) can have a bottle cooler specifically designed for its bottled beverage products, wherein, by promoting the bottle cooler, and getting consumers to try and like it, the company can promote sales of its bottled beverage products, since any time consumers want to use the bottle coolers to keep their beverages cold, they will have to buy and use those bottled beverage products that will fit properly in the coolers, and no other. This can serve as a significant incentive for consumers to buy only those bottled beverage products that work with the bottle cooler, since buying any other bottled beverage product will not allow them to use the bottle cooler properly.

[0015] A beverage company, such as Pepsi® or Coke®, should have an interest in promoting a bottle cooler that is made specifically for its own bottled beverage products. For instance, Coke® could market and sell, directly or indirectly, bottle coolers designed to fit all of their 20 ounce single serving bottled beverage products, including CocaCola®, Sprite®, Desani®, Minute Maid®, etc., and in turn, could use those bottle coolers to promote their 20 ounce bottled products. In such case, Coke® could launch an advertising campaign, using television and radio commercials, print ads, etc., to promote the bottle coolers and how they work, e.g., showing how the bottle cooler can be used with Coke® 20 ounce products. By doing so, Coke® can potentially increase sales of its 20 ounce bottled beverage products, and take away sales of its competitors, since consumers that want to use the bottle coolers will have to buy Coke® products to do so. Pepsi® could also do the same.

[0016] Sellers of bottled beverage products, e.g., convenience stores, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, etc., would also have an interest in promoting the bottle coolers to promote the bottled beverage products that they sell. For example, a fast food restaurant that sells only Pepsi® products might have an interest in promoting bottle coolers that are designed specifically for Pepsi® 20 ounce bottled products. Likewise, beverage sellers, such as convenience stores and grocery stores, including those that sell both Pepsi® and Coke® products, might have an interest in promoting bottle coolers, including those designed for Pepsi®, Coke®, or both. That is, since many beverage sellers sell a variety of different brands of beverage products, they are likely to have an interest in promoting any bottle cooler that will help promote the bottled beverage products that they carry. In such case, the present invention contemplates that beverage sellers could use the bottle coolers to promote a wide variety of different kinds of bottled beverage products, regardless of the make and brand, i.e., any that they sell at their stores. Sellers of beverages could also make the purchase of the bottle coolers dependent on the purchase of the bottled beverage products.

[0017] Promotional material and information designed to make an association in the minds of consumers between the bottle coolers and the bottled beverage products they are designed to fit could also be provided on the bottle cooler itself. Each cooler, for example, could be provided with a trademark, logo, and/or other promotional material or information relating to the brand name of the bottled beverage products that work with the bottle cooler, i.e., information can be printed directly on the bottle cooler to indicate which bottled beverage products the bottle cooler has been designed to fit. Miniature images, for example, of the particular bottled products that fit in the bottle cooler can be printed on the bottle cooler as a constant reminder that those bottled products work with the bottle cooler. Likewise, information indicating which bottled products the bottle coolers will not work with can be printed on the cooler, to show consumers which products will not fit or allow the cooler to leak.

[0018] In this respect, the present invention contemplates methods wherein a beverage company can enter into an agreement with one or more sellers or sponsors, like convenience store chains, grocery stores, amusement parks, theme parks, sports organizations, fast food restaurants, colleges and universities, concert organizers, movie production companies, music and entertainment businesses, corporate sponsors, as well as any organization that sells or promotes drinks or drink-ware items. For example, a contract can be entered between a beverage company and a seller or sponsor of beverages to have bottle coolers produced that are designed to fit the beverage company's bottled products, with the beverage company's and/or seller's/sponsor's brand name and/or logo printed on them, wherein the bottle coolers could be sold at the seller's/sponsor's stores, events, etc. This way, the beverage company can use the bottle coolers to promote its bottled beverage products, while at the same time, the seller/sponsor can use the bottle coolers to promote its products and/or services. Both will have an incentive to use the bottle coolers to promote their products and/or services.

[0019] For example, theme parks, such as Disney World®, Six Flags®, Busch Gardens®, etc., could put their trademarks and/or logos on the bottle coolers, and sell them at their theme parks, i.e., in conjunction with the bottled beverage products that they sell. This way, when consumers want to buy a bottled beverage product, such as a Coke®, they will have the option of buying just the drink, or the drink with a souvenir bottle cooler specifically designed for that bottle. By buying both, consumers will be able to keep their beverages cold while walking around the park, while the bottle coolers could also be taken home as souvenirs and used later (which promotes sales of additional beverage products of the beverage company). This would not only give an incentive to theme parks to promote and sell the bottle coolers, but for beverage companies to partner with theme parks, to use the bottle cooler to promote their bottled beverage products.

[0020] The coolers can also be sold at sporting events, concerts, hotels/resorts, beaches/pools, etc., i.e., any location, activity or event where cold drinks are sold or desired. Sports teams, like the New York Yankees®, for example, could sell souvenir bottle coolers that are specifically designed to fit the particular bottled beverage products that they sell at their games. A sports team would have an incentive to sell the bottle coolers (or give them away as souvenir promotional drink-ware items) to help promote the team and its events. At the same time, the bottle coolers can help promote sales of the bottled beverage products that they carry, since spectators would have a desire to use the bottle coolers to keep their bottled beverages cold during the games.

[0021] Convenience store operators and other beverage sellers, including grocery stores and major discount department stores, may also want to use the bottle coolers to promote either one brand or several different brands of bottled beverage products. For example, since most 2 liter bottles are substantially the same size and shape, the seller might want to promote and sell a large bottle cooler capable of holding any 2 liter bottle, as a means of promoting any of the 2 liter bottled beverage products that they sell. In such case, it would not matter whether the consumer bought a Pepsi® or Coke®, or any other 2 liter beverage product, so long as the consumer bought the bottled beverage products from the seller. The seller could make the purchase of the bottle cooler dependent on the purchase of the bottled beverage products that they sell, i.e., that fit into the bottle cooler, such as with a discount.

[0022] The beverage company could also enter into an agreement with a seller to sell bottle coolers that promote the beverage company's brand, even if the seller does not sell the particular bottled beverage products that are designed to fit into the bottle cooler. That is, the seller could make the purchase of the bottle cooler dependent on the purchase of other beverage products of the same brand, i.e., produced by the same beverage company, such as a twelve pack of aluminum cans, or six pack of one-half liter bottles, to promote the beverage company's other products. The beverage company or seller could also use the bottle cooler simply to promote its own products and/or services, such as by putting its brand name and/or logo on it.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] FIG. 1 is a side view of an embodiment used in the present invention;

[0024] FIG. 2 is a section view of the embodiment of FIG. 1;

[0025] FIG. 3 is another section view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showing a typical PET bottle in dashed lines;

[0026] FIG. 4 shows the bottom of a typical PET bottle with five grooves and/or indentations;

[0027] FIG. 5 is a section view of the cap;

[0028] FIG. 6 is a horizontal section view of an alternate embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 7 shows section A-A of the embodiment of FIG. 6;

[0030] FIG. 8 shows section B-B of the embodiment of FIG. 6;

[0031] FIG. 9 shows ice being displaced by the bottle inside the container;

[0032] FIG. 10 shows another embodiment used in the present invention;

[0033] FIG. 11 is a section view showing a fixed support;

[0034] FIG. 12 is a section view showing a removable support;

[0035] FIGS. 13a to 13c show views of the removable support;

[0036] FIG. 14 shows a coil spring embodiment;

[0037] FIG. 15 shows two bottles having different sizes and shapes;

[0038] FIGS. 16a and 16b show cross-sections of an alternative sealing member;

[0039] FIG. 17 shows a schematic of the sealing member of FIGS. 16a and 16b;

[0040] FIG. 18 shows an embodiment with external grip formations;

[0041] FIGS. 19a and 19b show a double wall embodiment;

[0042] FIGS. 20a, 20b and 20c show a stackable embodiment with a replacement straw;

[0043] FIGS. 21a and 21b show alternate caps for sealing the container;

[0044] FIGS. 22a and 22b show a one-piece embodiment;

[0045] FIGS. 23a and 23b show another embodiment;

[0046] FIGS. 24a and 24b show different versions of the support for a typical PET bottle;

[0047] FIGS. 25a and 25b show another cap and sealing gasket designed for a bottle having a predetermined size and shape; and

[0048] FIGS. 26a through 26d show an alternate embodiment with double wall construction and upper handle for a 2 liter bottle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] FIGS. 1-3 show a bottle cooler 1 having a container 5 and cap 3 designed to be connected and sealed together. As seen in FIGS. 2-3, container 5 is preferably an open-top container having a handle 7 and an internal space 9 formed by a wall 12, wherein an opening on the top 11 preferably enables a bottle 13, such as a commercial beverage bottle, to be inserted therein. Container 5 preferably has extended on the inside thereof a plurality of supports 4, 6, such as extending from wall 12, which are adapted to provide support for the lower end of bottle 13. This way, bottle 13 can be inserted into container 5 and held by supports 4, 6, and space 15 can be formed between bottle 13 and container 5, as shown in FIG. 3, in which ice and/or water can be stored.

[0050] Wall 12 can be cylindrical or any shape that allows space 15 to be of sufficient size. Preferably, the distance between wall 12 and bottle 13 allows conventional size ice cubes or particles, such as cubed ice, diced ice, chopped ice, crushed ice, etc., such as from conventional ice dispensers, to be easily distributed and stored therein. Many ice dispensers form particles that have a minimum dimension that is less than about one-half inch thick, and therefore, it is contemplated that the distance between bottle 13 and wall 12, as shown in FIG. 3, can be between about three-quarters of an inch to one inch, although any dimension that serves the intended purposes can be used. For example, where it is desirable for larger ice cubes to be used, the distance between bottle 13 and wall 12 can be greater, i.e., one and one-half inch or more. In this case, the minimum distance between bottle 13 and wall 12 is preferably about ¼ inch to ½ inch greater than the minimum dimension of the ice particles that are intended to be used in container 5. While it is desirable that sufficient space 15 be provided for the ice, it is also desirable for container 5 to be compact and easy to manufacture and store, and therefore, the present invention contemplates that these factors should be taken into consideration when designing the container.

[0051] Container 5 preferably has a lower section 2 that is narrowed to fit into conventional cup-holders. Lower section 2 preferably forms cavity 17 below bottle 13 and allows additional ice to be stored in container 5 substantially surrounding a lower end 49 of bottle 13, as shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 9, the section 52 immediately above lower section 2 is preferably extended radially outward, such as in a curved, sloped and/or angled manner, wherein this configuration 51 can help facilitate the ice to climb up the sidewall of bottle 13, i.e., the level of the ice to rise, as shown by the arrows, when bottle 13 is shoved down into the ice. The location of sloped surface 51 in relation to the lower end 49 of bottle 13 when bottle 13 is positioned on supports 4, 6, preferably ensures that ice can easily be displaced around the bottle 13 without getting trapped inside lower section 2. That is, the minimum distance between the lower surface 49 of bottle 13 and sloped surface 51 is preferably about the same as the minimum distance between bottle 13 and wall 12, as described above, to avoid ice particles being trapped in lower section 2 as bottle 13 is inserted into the ice, which could prevent the bottle 13 from being inserted onto the supports 4, 6. In this embodiment, top 11 of container 5 can be narrowed to receive a relatively narrow cap 3, which can make cap 3 and container 5 easier to grasp, and prevent ice from escaping from container 5 while inserting bottle 13 into the ice.

[0052] Cap 3 preferably has a central opening 19, as shown in FIG. 5, through which neck 21 of bottle 13 can extend. Cap 3 also preferably has a resilient sealing member 23 extended on the inside and substantially around opening 19. When cap 3 is tightened onto container 5, with neck 21 extended through opening 19, sealing member 23 preferably engages and presses against the shoulder of bottle 13, to substantially seal space 15 with bottle 13 inside container 5, as shown in FIG. 3.

[0053] Sealing member 23 preferably has an engaging surface 25, which can have virtually any cross-sectional shape that performs in the intended manner. For example, it can be semi-circular or semi-oval, as shown in FIG. 11, and/or have multiple blades or ribs, as shown in FIG. 5, which can help promote water-tightness, even against unevenly shaped bottles. It can also be shaped like sealing member 242 shown in FIGS. 25a and 25b. Sealing member 23 can also be connected to cap 3 in any manner that provides a tight seal, including an interference fit, interlocking sections, adhesives, bonding, fusing, etc. Preferably, sealing member 23 is inserted into cap 3 with an interference fit (by making sealing member 23 slightly larger in diameter than the area on the cap), chemically bonded to cap 3 using a two shot or over-mold method, as is known in the art, or formed with an extended flange 27 that fits above an upper edge 29 of cap 3 so that it can be snapped into opening 19 and held therein, as shown in FIG. 5. Sealing member 23 can also be made in one piece with a lower surface serving as a gasket for the container, if desired. One or more raised projections 31 (or 254 in FIG. 25b) is/are preferably provided on the underside of cap 3, which can mate with one or more reciprocal grooves 33 on sealing member 23. Projection 31, in this respect, can help support sealing member 23 on cap 3, as well as provide a pinching effect to sealing member 23, i.e., to help provide an effective seal against bottle 13.

[0054] Sealing member 23 is preferably made of resilient material, such as rubber, silicon, polypropylene, polyethylene, or other like material, or a combination thereof, etc. The present invention contemplates that sealing member 23 can be resilient, but firm and/or thick enough, so that a degree of tolerance can be provided at the engagement between sealing member 23 and bottle 13. That is, even if bottle 13 is not made to exact dimensions, it is nevertheless contemplated that enough sealing pressure can be applied via the resiliency and/or thickness of sealing member 23, against bottle 13, to substantially prevent leaking. It has been found that sealing member 242 shown in FIGS. 25a, 25b can be made within the preferred range of durometer between 25A and 70A. Although sealing member 23 is shown in FIG. 5, it can be seen that different types of sealing members are possible, such as sealing members 76 and 242, as well as a coating that provides the necessary sealing capability.

[0055] Cap 3 preferably has threads 35 along an internal diameter thereof for engaging threads 37 along an external diameter of container 5. The threads can be continuous or broken. An interference fit, valve seal or other linerless connection can be created between an upper rim or landing 43 of container 5 and a groove 41 formed by an extension 39 extending downward or surface above threads 35, wherein the connection between cap 3 and container 5 can be tightened and substantially sealed thereby. Groove 41 can be adapted to fit tightly on either side of upper rim 43 to enable a seal to be made even if upper rim 43 is not fitted all the way into groove 41, to provide some tolerance as described above. Alternatively, a sealing gasket can be provided within groove 41, like sealing gasket 244 shown in FIGS. 25a and 25b, wherein a substantially horizontally oriented landing can be extended inward on upper rim 43 which can be sealed against the sealing gasket. A sealing gasket such as gasket 184 shown in FIG. 21b can also be bonded to the cap by means of a two shot or overmold method. Likewise, a pair of clamps, buckles, or similar device, can be provided to seal cap 3 onto container 5.

[0056] Various supports, such as 4, 6, for supporting bottle 13 in relation to container 5 are contemplated. Supports 4, 6 preferably keep bottle 13 at a relatively fixed position inside container 5, so that when cap 3 and container 5 are tightened together, bottle 13 can be held in substantial compression between sealing member 23 and supports 4, 6, with sealing member 23 pressed tightly against bottle 13 to form a substantial watertight seal. In this respect, cap 3 and container 5 are preferably adapted to hold a particular bottle 13 having a predetermined size and shape, which requires the shape, size and location of supports 4, 6, and the shape, size and location of sealing member 23 to be coordinated together, such that the distance between them helps to maintain bottle 13 in a substantially fixed position inside container 5. With bottle 13 held in this manner, the threaded connection between cap 3 and container 5 can preferably be tightened and the seal between them made at the same time that the engagement and seal between sealing member 23 and bottle 13 is made. That is, the connection and engagement are preferably made with cap 3 in the same position relative to container 5.

[0057] In this embodiment, at least three supports are preferably provided to create a triangular support system to hold the lower end of bottle 13 in position inside container 5, wherein each support is preferably adapted to engage a particular surface of bottle 13, while allowing a substantial portion of the ice particles to be in direct contact with bottle 13. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, four supports are shown (for demonstration purposes)—three supports 4 for engaging the lower exterior surface 49 of bottle 13, and, as shown in FIG. 3, one slightly raised support 6 for engaging a groove 45 located on the underside surface 49 of bottle 13, shown in FIG. 4.

[0058] As seen in FIG. 4, the bottom of a typical PET bottle 13 has multiple grooves 45, i.e., many have five grooves, to provide rigidity and support thereto. By forming at least one of the supports 6 to fit inside one of the grooves 45, as shown in FIG. 3, the bottle 13 can be substantially prevented from rotating inside container 5. That is, the compression of bottle 13 between sealing member 23 and supports 4, 6, enables the fit between the raised support 6 and one of the grooves 45 to be maintained, so that as long as cap 3 remains sealed on container 5, bottle 13 will not rotate. This enables the lid 47 of bottle 13 to be easily twisted open and closed without bottle 13 also rotating inside container 5. The embodiment shown has one raised support 6, but more of the supports 4, including all, can be adapted to fit into grooves 45, if desired.

[0059] In use, standard ice particles, such as chopped, cubed, crushed, diced, etc., are preferably placed inside internal space 9 of container 5 before bottle 13 is inserted. An indicator line 48, as shown in FIG. 2, or other indicator, is preferably provided on the surface of container 5 to indicate how much ice should be placed therein. The location of this line is based on the amount of ice particles that should be placed in container 5 to enable the space 15, including cavity 17, to be substantially filled when bottle 13 is inserted and properly positioned inside container 5. This helps the user know how much ice to use to maximize contact between the ice particles and bottle 13, while avoiding too much ice, which could prevent bottle 13 from being inserted into container 5, and cap 3 from being tightened.

[0060] Next, bottle 13 is pushed down into the ice, which causes some of the ice to be displaced, as shown in FIG. 9, and climb up the sidewalls of bottle 13. The sloped surface 51, in this respect, above the lower section 2, preferably helps to cause ice to be displaced and distributed upward as bottle 13 is being pushed downward. The distance between surface 51 and bottle 13 preferably enables bottle 13 to be inserted without ice being trapped inside lower section 2. Water can be added to container 5 to make it easier for the ice particles to be displaced and distributed around bottle 13 as bottle 13 is being pushed into the ice if desired, i.e., such as when relatively large ice cubes are used.

[0061] Next, bottle 13 is preferably pushed down until the lower exterior surface 49 of bottle 13 is properly centered, seated and rests on supports 4, 6. Alternatively, bottle 13 can be pushed down part of the way, and cap 3 can be placed over bottle 13 with neck 21 extended through opening 19, and then tightened onto container 5, wherein due to the self-centering effect of supports 4, 6 can automatically cause bottle 13 to be seated thereon. Tightening cap 3 preferably causes sealing member 23 to be pressed and sealed against the shoulder of bottle 13, while at the same time, the connecting surfaces between cap 3 and container 5 can also be sealed. Ice and/or water within space 15, including cavity 17, can then be stored and sealed, substantially surrounding bottle 13, to keep the beverage cool. This prevents water, such as from melting ice, from leaking out, and enables the beverage to be poured and consumed directly from bottle 13, without having to remove bottle 13 from the ice.

[0062] FIGS. 6-8 show a preferred embodiment for a single serving bottle, such as a 20 ounce bottle, that can be manufactured at a relatively low cost. Container 55 is preferably molded, such as by a blow-mold process, from a single piece of moldable plastic material. Container 55 is preferably generally sized and shaped like container 5, with a narrowed lower section 63, handle 65, thread 67, wall 61, space 60 (between bottle 13 and wall 61), upper opening 71, sloped surface 51, etc., wherein a similar cap 3 or 246 can be used. Supports 57, 59 on container 55 are preferably adapted to provide vertical and lateral support to bottle 13. However, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, they are preferably formed as indentations 59 directly on wall 61 in the appropriate position relative to the parting line (shown as B-B) so that container 55 can be blow-molded. Container 55 is preferably formed having a substantially constant wall thickness, i.e., a thickness that can be formed by blow-molding, wherein the thickness at supports 57, 59 is preferably substantially predetermined to enable bottle 13 to be held in substantial compression between sealing member 23 and supports 57, 59. In this respect, the parasin formed during blow-molding can be programmed to predetermine the thickness of supports 57, 59, which can be a factor in ensuring that bottle 13 can be properly supported in the predetermined location and sealed inside container 5. In fact, even with the same mold, the parasin can be adjusted to increase or reduce the thickness of supports 57, 59, so that specific tolerances can be met in connection with a particular bottle, depending on the actual size and shape of bottle 13.

[0063] In this embodiment, three supports, including one support 57 for engaging an exterior portion 49 of bottle 13, and two raised supports 59 capable of being fitted into two of the five grooves 45 on bottle 13, to substantially prevent rotation of bottle 13, are preferably provided. Each of the three supports 57, 59 preferably has a sloped upper surface to help self-center bottle 13 inside container 55, i.e., as bottle 13 is being pushed down into the ice. The two raised supports 59 on container 55, as shown in FIG. 6, are preferably positioned on opposing sides, such that they can fit into opposing grooves 45 on bottle 13, and such that they can be formed using a blow-mold, in which case the two halves of the mold have to be formed with the appropriate draft to allow the mold to be pulled apart after the piece is formed. Support 57, on the other hand, is preferably formed along a parting line (which extends along B-B), i.e., on a sidewall under handle 65, as shown in FIG. 8, and, in this respect, is preferably positioned equidistant from the two raised supports 59, such that the three supports 57, 59 form a triangular support system, i.e., symmetrical about a vertical center plane B-B, which also represents the parting line. In this respect, one wall of each raised support 59, and the entire support 57, are preferably extended with an appropriate draft more than perpendicular to plane B-B, wherein this configuration allows two blow-mold halves to be properly separated once container 55 has been formed. Supports 57, 59 are also preferably spaced far enough apart from each other to allow the ice particles to be easily stored and displaced without being trapped in lower section 2. Supports 57, 59 are also formed large enough that they provide support to bottle 13, which can depend on how stiff the grooves 45 and lower surface 49 of bottle 13 are, i.e., the stiffer they are, the smaller the supports can be.

[0064] Like the previous embodiment, container 55 preferably has a section 52 with sloped surface 51 extended radially outward, as shown in FIG. 9, which allows ice to be easily displaced and distributed. Supports 57, 59 are also preferably designed not to interfere with the displacement of ice from lower section 2, although water may still be needed to allow the ice to be displaced enough to make bottle insertion easier. Handle 65 is shown solid, but is preferably hollow when formed using a blow-mold. To make container 55 easy to mold, i.e., such as to avoid flashing, handle 65 can be replaced by indented grips 98, as shown in FIG. 18. Also, the upper portion around opening 71 can be made narrow enough to hold with one hand, so that no handle or grips are needed. In these versions, e.g., where no handle is provided, a shrink-wrap plastic label for graphic displays on the container can be provided.

[0065] FIGS. 10-13 show an additional embodiment 73 having a cap 75 and container 77 capable of being secured and sealed together with bottle 83 inside. Like the previous embodiments, cap 75 is preferably adapted with an opening 74, through which neck 86 of bottle 83 can be extended. Inside container 77, a space 91 is preferably formed between wall 89 and bottle 83 when bottle 83 is inserted into container 77, wherein ice and/or water can be stored therein. While in one version, container 77 is specifically adapted and sized to fit a particular bottle 83, other versions contemplate that various bottles of similar but different sizes and shapes can be fitted inside container 77, i.e., by means of different central supports 93, as will be discussed. Although this embodiment can be adapted for virtually any size bottle, it is particularly suited to larger bottles, such as 2 liter and 64 ounce PET bottles, where no need for a narrowed lower section to fit into cup-holders exists, although the lower section 85 can be narrowed as shown if desired.

[0066] At least two versions are shown in FIGS. 11-12. Both versions are preferably provided with a support 93 extending upward like a pedestal from the lower floor 99 of container 77, although not necessarily so, wherein support 93 is adapted to provide vertical and lateral support to bottle 83. In this respect, bottle 83 is preferably held in substantial compression between sealing member 76 on cap 75 and central support 93 inside container 77.

[0067] Support 93 preferably elevates bottle 83 above floor 99, wherein an additional cavity 101 can be formed under bottle 83, as shown in FIG. 12, such that additional ice and/or water can be stored therein, although this is not required. Lateral support can be provided by the rigidity of central support 93 and its engagement into an indentation 97 on the bottom surface of bottle 83, as shown in FIG. 12. Most PET bottles have a concave indentation 97 in the bottom center, wherein a pattern with multiple grooves or other formations are provided to give rigidity and support thereto. The present invention contemplates that the upper surface 95 of central support 93, as shown in FIG. 13a, can be specifically configured with reciprocal grooves or formations 96, that can mate, mesh with, or otherwise engage, indentation 97, such that when bottle 83 is held in substantial compression between support 93 and sealing member 76, bottle 83 can be held in a relatively fixed position. Engagement of central support 93 with indentation 97 can substantially prevent rotation of bottle 83, i.e., by holding bottle 83 in substantial compression with central support 93 pressed tightly against indentation 97, and reciprocal formations 96 fitting within the grooves on the bottom surface of bottle 83, such as grooves 45 shown in FIG. 4. The upper surface 95 can be extended like a pedestal seat, as shown in FIGS. 13a and 13c, with contours 96.

[0068] FIG. 11 shows a fixed central support 105 extending upward from floor 99, wherein upper surface 95 preferably conforms to the shape of the particular indentation 97 of bottle 83. A plurality of self-centering slats 90 or other formations (three or more) can be formed on wall 89 to guide bottle 83 onto support 93. The fixed support 105 can be formed as an extension from floor 99, as shown in FIG. 11, or a solid extension or attachment to floor 99, or in any other manner. For example, support 105 can be configured like support 220 shown in FIGS. 23b and 24a, as will be discussed.

[0069] FIG. 12 shows a removable central support 107, wherein a plurality of supports of varying sizes and shapes can be employed in connection with a single container 77. Each support 107 preferably has an upper surface 95 adapted for a particular bottle, i.e., depending on the size and shape of indentation 97. Each support 107 also preferably extends a certain height depending on the height of the intended bottle. This way, a single container 77 can be used to fit a number of similar but differently sized and shaped bottles, simply by attaching and detaching the appropriate supports 107 as needed.

[0070] Support 107 can be attached to floor 99 in a variety of ways. In each instance, the attachment is preferably adapted so that support 107 remains in a substantially fixed position and is prevented from rotating relative to floor 99. In one attachment, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13b, a round stem 109 is extended from floor 99, which has a vertical indented slot 111. In such case, support 107 is provided with a reciprocal vertical bore 113, with a slot-engaging extension 115. This way, support 107 can be attached and detached simply by sliding support 107 on and off stem 109. Alternatively, slot 111 can be in bore 113, and the extension 115 on stem 109. The two pieces can also be reversed, i.e., bore 113 can be located on floor 99, and stem 109 can be extended from support 107. Alternatively, stem 109 and bore 113 can be adapted with connecting non-circular shapes, such as square, rectangular, triangular, etc., which can prevent rotation of support 107.

[0071] Wall 89 can be made without self-centering slats 90 so that larger diameter bottles can be used. For example, instead of a 2 liter bottle 83 shown in FIG. 12, a wider and shorter 64 ounce PET bottle may be used. In such case, the slats 90 could interfere with the bottle. Even without slats, however, support 107 is preferably adapted so that upper surface 95 provides a self-centering effect to bottle 83, wherein support 107 can support bottle 83 in a relatively fixed position. This is also true of fixed support 105 and other supports, such as 220. Opening 87 on container 77 can also be made large enough, as shown, so that ice can be added to container 77 even after bottle 83 is inserted into container 77. This way, bottle 83 can be located on support 93 first, and then ice can be added, so that the bottle does not have to be shoved down into the ice.

[0072] Like the previous embodiments, cap 75 preferably has threads 94 that engage threads 81 on container 77. A sealing gasket 80 can also be provided in interference groove 84, although any water-tight seal, as discussed previously, can be employed. Like sealing member 23, sealing member 76 is preferably made of resilient material, and can be in the shape of an O-ring having a semi-rounded cross section with blades or ridges extending longitudinally thereon, wherein sealing member 76 can be capable of being sealed against various surfaces, which is advantageous, for example, where different bottles are used. Sealing member 76 can be secured to cap 75 via one or more projections 78, as well as by interference fit, bonding, an adhesive, or other secure means, as discussed previously.

[0073] In an alternate embodiment, central support 93 can be a coil spring 102, as shown in FIG. 14, to accommodate bottles of different sizes. Spring 102 is preferably secured to floor 99 of container 77 via housing 104 in a manner that prevents rotation thereof, i.e., such as with a non-circular connection. Spring 102 is preferably substantially stiff enough to apply upward pressure to bottle 83 to maintain a water-tight seal against sealing member 76, and to keep bottle 83 in a substantially fixed position, without being too stiff such that it would not compress under the pressure of cap 75 being tightened. The dimensions of spring 102 are preferably large enough, and the tension thereof preferably stiff enough, so that spring 102 will not twist with respect to itself, wherein by engagement of upper surface 95 with indentation 97 and one or more grooves on bottle 83, bottle 83 can be substantially prevented from rotating. In this respect, upper surface 95 can be provided with a secure non-rotational attachment to spring 102 so that the entire pedestal prevents rotation. Spring 102 is preferably made of a rust-proof material such as aluminum or stainless steel.

[0074] A unique aspect of the present invention is that the present cooling device can be made to accommodate a certain type of beverage bottle, whereas, other beverage bottles having different sizes and shapes are not accommodated. In this respect, FIG. 15 shows two bottles 110, 112 having different shoulder configurations and heights, i.e. seal points. Bottle 110 has an effective shoulder height of b, based on a dimension a, which represents the effective diameter of the sealing member, such as 23, 76, 242, (or opening 166), etc. Bottle 112, however, has a shorter effective shoulder height of c, based on the same dimension a, of the sealing member. Accordingly, using the same cap and container, with fixed supports on the bottom, such as supports 4, 6, 57, 59, 105, and 220 (assuming that the bottom of bottles 110 and 112 are similar), the cooler can be made so that it will only accommodate the seal point of one bottle 110, or 112, but not both. Of course, this may not be the case when removable supports 107 or adjustable springs 102 are used.

[0075] FIGS. 16a, 16b, 17 show an alternate sealing member 114 with openings 116 on one or more edges 120, 122 that effectively prevent bottles having different shoulder angles from being sealed properly in the same cooling device. With this embodiment, even if the effective shoulder height of each bottle is the same, if the shoulder angle is different enough, the bottle will not seal properly. For example, FIG. 16a shows sealing member 114 sealed against bottle 110, wherein the shoulder angle of bottle 110 is adapted to engage flat surface 118. It can be seen that by pressing flat surface 118 against the shoulder of bottle 110, a proper seal can be provided. FIG. 16b, on the other hand, shows how the same sealing member 114 cannot be sealed against the shoulder of bottle 112, even if the seal point is at the same height, wherein the shoulder angle is steeper and can cause edge 120 of member 114, not flat surface 118, to engage bottle 112. With bottle 112 held in this manner, it can be seen that openings 116 will remain open and allow water to leak out despite sealing member 114 being pressed against bottle 112. In such case, sealing member 114 is preferably made of a relatively stiff resilient material, and openings 116 can be provided on one edge 120, as shown in FIG. 17, or the other edge 122 (not shown), or both edges 120, 122 (not shown), so that the cooling device will not function properly with bottles having steeper or shallower shoulder angles, as the case may be.

[0076] Other means of preventing bottles having different shapes and/or sizes from being used are contemplated. For example, FIGS. 25a and 25b show sealing member 242 positioned on cap 240, wherein at least two projections 252 and 254 are provided. Outer projection 252 is preferably adapted to extend around the perimeter of sealing member 242 to enable sealing member to be properly secured inside cap 240. In one embodiment, the outside diameter of sealing member 242 can be made slightly larger than the inside surface of projection 252 so that sealing member 242 can be held by friction alone, i.e., with an interference fit. Projection 252 also serves to maintain or buttress sealing member 242 against the pressure applied when cap 240 is tightened and sealing member 242 is pressed against a bottle. Projection 254, on the other hand, serves to provide support for sealing member 242, and can provide a pinching effect to sealing member 242 when pressed against the shoulder of a bottle, to help provide an effective water-tight seal.

[0077] At the same time, it can be seen that projections 254 and 252 can severely limit the type of bottle upon which cap 240 can be sealed. In this example, as shown in FIG. 25b, sealing member 242 is designed to be sealed onto a shoulder of a bottle as shown by the dashed line 256. In this respect, an engaging surface 243 is designed to make direct contact with the bottle. It can be seen, however, that a bottle having a different seal point, such as the effective shoulder represented by dashed line 260, would not allow cap 240 and sealing member 242 to be fitted over the bottle, since the interference would be too great. That is, projections 252 and 254 would cause interference with the proper tightening of cap 240 onto the container no matter how resilient sealing member 242 was, and therefore, cap 240 could not be used with the bottle represented by line 260. Projection 252 could also be extended further to interfere with bottle 260. In addition, it can be seen that a bottle having an effective shoulder represented by the dashed line 258 would not allow sealing member 242 to make any contact with the bottle, wherein cap 240 would be prevented from being properly sealed against the bottle. Of course, this assumes that each of these bottles is held in a substantially fixed location within the container, as discussed previously.

[0078] Another means of preventing bottles having different shapes and/or sizes from being used relates to how the bottle is supported, i.e., by the lower supporting surface, such as supports 4, 6 shown in FIGS. 1-3, indented supports 57, 59 shown in FIGS. 6-8, central support 93 shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, central support 220 shown in FIGS. 23b and 24a, and support 230 shown in FIG. 24b. In this respect, it can be seen that the supporting surface can be specifically adapted to mate and/or mesh with a particular bottle having a predetermined configuration, i.e., to fit into the lower grooves and/or indentations on a particular PET bottle. The supporting surface, in such case, can be made specifically for that bottle, such that whenever any other bottle having a different lower end configuration is used, the bottle would not fit properly.

[0079] For example, the supporting surface can be designed for a bottle having five grooves, wherein a bottle having four grooves or three grooves, or grooves that are too narrow or have a different shape, would not fit properly, i.e., it would not sit properly on the supporting surface, and/or would not enable the seal point to be sealed properly. This would be the case even if the rest of the bottle is substantially identical to the intended bottle. In this respect, the size and shape of the supporting surface, including the distance between the supporting surface and the sealing member, can be adapted for a particular bottle, or the bottle can be custom made for the particular bottle cooler, such that the bottle cooler will only work properly when the appropriate bottle is used.

[0080] Additional embodiments of the bottle cooler will now be discussed. FIGS. 19a and 19b show an embodiment of the present invention with double wall construction. In this example, the container 130 is constructed using two pieces, an outer piece 132 and an inner piece 134. Outer piece 132 can have a handle 136, as shown in FIG. 19a. In one embodiment, inner piece 134 is blow-molded and has three indentations 138, as represented in FIG. 19b, that extend inward to provide a triangular support system for bottle 144, similar to supports 57, 59 described above in connection with FIGS. 6-8. In this respect, one or more of the indentations 138 can be adapted to fit into one or more grooves or indentations on bottle 144, as described above, to prevent bottle 144 from rotating inside container 130. Of course, if inner piece 134 is injection molded, the supports 138 can all be like the indentations 156 shown in FIG. 20a to be discussed.

[0081] In the embodiment shown, outer piece 132 only extends part of the way up. This is because the inner piece 134 is blow-molded with upper portion 135 narrowed, and outer piece 132 is injection molded to fit over the widest area of inner piece 134. Of course, where upper portion 135 is not narrowed, such as in FIGS. 23a and 23b, both pieces could be injection molded and extended substantially all the way up. The lower section 137 can be narrowed for fitting into cup-holders, as discussed.

[0082] A connecting means 140 is preferably provided at the joint where the upper portion 142 of outer piece 132 connects to inner piece 134. This can be done with sonic welding, a snap-in fit, tongue and groove connection, threads, adhesive, or any other means. A slight gap 139 is preferably provided between inner and outer pieces 132, 134, for providing insulation properties. Spacers 131 which can be located throughout the container can be provided between inner and outer pieces 132, 134 to support outer piece 132 in relation to inner piece 134.

[0083] The above represents an example of how the present invention can be made with double wall construction, although any double wall construction is contemplated. For example, the embodiment shown in FIGS. 23a and 23b can be made with double wall construction, wherein the outer piece can be substantially as shown in FIG. 23a, and the inner piece can be substantially as shown in FIG. 23b, i.e., one could fit into the other, with spacers and connectors. In such case, both pieces can be injection molded, i.e., made without a narrow neck. A central support, as discussed above, or as shown in FIG. 23b, or any other supporting surface, can be used in such case.

[0084] FIGS. 20a, 20b and 20c show an embodiment where containers 150 are made of moldable plastic and capable of being stacked on top of each other. FIG. 20a shows wall 152 of container 150, including sloped surface154, lower wall 153, and indentations 156, being slightly angled or provided with a draft such that a plurality of like containers 150 can be stacked on top of each other. Lower wall 153 is preferably narrowed to enable container 150 to fit into conventional cup-holders, as discussed previously. The design is preferably made so that it can be injection molded, similar to a stackable plastic cup. This enables container 150 to be economically manufactured, which is advantageous from the standpoint of being sold as a souvenir promotional item, and enables more pieces to be stacked and stored.

[0085] In this embodiment, indentations 156 preferably form the supports, as described above, which help to keep bottle 158 in a relatively fixed position. Preferably, there are at least three indentations 156, similar to the supports shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 6-8, except they can be adapted for injection molding, i.e., they can all be like indentation 156 since the molds are separated from top to bottom rather than in halves. The indentations 156 can be adapted to fit into the grooves or indentations on the bottom of the bottle 158, as described above, to prevent bottle 158 from rotating inside container 150. On the other hand, when bottles are used that have pull open tops, i.e., that don't have twist off lids, such as used for non-carbonated beverages, this embodiment can, like the others, be made without supports extending into one or more grooves or indentations on bottle 158. In such case, providing only lateral and vertical support to bottle 158, without preventing bottle 158 from rotating, would be sufficient.

[0086] In a variation of this embodiment, a central support, like the support 105 shown in FIG. 11 that can be extended up from floor 155 of container 150, can be provided. In such case, the floor would have an indentation that is angled or tapered upward so that similar containers 150 could be stacked on top of each other, with one support of one container 150 stacked on top of an adjacent support of an adjacent container 150. As discussed above, the upper surface of the support can be adapted to fit into the grooves and/or indentations on the bottom of bottle 158, if desired, to prevent rotation of the bottle. In another variation, where the lower end does not need to be narrowed, floor 155 could be provided with indentations 232, like those shown in FIG. 24b.

[0087] Cap 160 is preferably made of molded plastic, and can be adapted so that it simply snaps onto the top of container 150, as shown in FIG. 20a, or can be threaded as discussed previously. As shown, a curled over rim 162 can be provided that snaps over and onto flange 164 on the upper edge of container 150. This way, container 150 and cap 160 can be easily snapped together. Cap 160 can also be economically manufactured, i.e., it doesn't have to have threads and an interference fit as in the other embodiments, although it can.

[0088] In such case, cap 160 preferably has a central opening 166 through which the neck of bottle 158 can extend. Opening 166 does not necessarily have to have a separate resilient sealing member, as in past embodiments, since the plastic material will have some degree of elasticity and resilience. Opening 166 can be formed like a cut-out hole with a predetermined diameter that fits relatively snug over a smooth shoulder of bottle 158. In such case, the inner edge 170 of opening 166 can be angled to match the slope of the shoulder, such that a relatively tight fit can be provided. Alternatively, the edge 170 can be coated with a soft resilient material to provide an improved seal. Bottle 158 could also be adapted with a horizontal rib around the shoulder where edge 170 meets bottle 158 to provide a better fit.

[0089] While there is the possibility that water could leak in this embodiment, this version is intended to be used with a straw, so that the cooler does not have to be tilted to drink the beverage. That is, this embodiment can be provided with a separate replacement twist-off lid 161 with a built-in straw 163, as shown in FIG. 20c, such that after the bottle's lid 159 is opened, the user can simply replace the bottle's lid 159 with the replacement lid 161 and then use straw 163 to drink the beverage. The straw, in such case, preferably has a pull-off cap 165 so that it can be sealed, such as used in sports bottles. An advantage of using a straw is that it can draw beverage from the bottom of bottle 158, which is likely to be where the beverage is the coldest.

[0090] FIGS. 21a and 21b show versions where the caps 175 and 180 can be adapted to provide a water-tight seal without having a bottle in the container, so that the container can double as a sports bottle or mug, etc. That is, in situations where bottled drinks are not desired or available, the container can be used as a sports bottle or mug for containing fountain drinks which can be consumed directly from the container. The alternate cap designs are provided so that they can be provided in conjunction with the bottle cooler or container, or offered separately, so that consumers will have the option of using the container as a bottle cooler, or as a traditional sports bottle or mug.

[0091] In FIG. 21a, for example, a cap 175 identical to cap 240 (shown in FIG. 25a) is shown, although any cap previously discussed can be used. In this embodiment, a separate plug 176, such as made of resilient material, can be inserted into opening 177 of cap 175 (i.e., through which the neck of the bottle can extend). Plug 176 is preferably provided with an insert portion 178 that can be inserted into opening 177, and a flange portion 179 that can be extended over cap 175, to substantially seal opening 177 without a bottle placed in the container. The insert portion 178 is preferably adapted such that it can be snapped into opening 177, with a slight interference fit, such that plug 176 can be retained therein. This way, plug 176 can be used to seal opening 177, wherein cap 175 can be used to seal the container even when no bottle is inserted therein. The insert portion 178 can also be adapted with other fastening means, such as threads that connect to threads on opening 177.

[0092] In FIG. 21b, a separate cap 180 is shown with a straw 181 extended through the upper wall 183. In this embodiment, the cap 180 is used to seal the container without a bottle therein, wherein the beverage can be consumed directly from the container. The cap 180 essentially functions like a lid that prevents the beverage inside the container from spilling, and allows the consumer to drink directly from the container via the straw 181. Other drinking channels (not shown), such as a standard flip up drinking spout or other opening, can also be used instead of a straw. This cap 180 can also be made without a straw or drinking channel, wherein upper wall 183 could be made solid, so that it can be used to substantially seal the beverage inside the container. Likewise, plug 176 discussed above can be made to have a straw or drinking channel extended through it, so that consumers can drink directly from the container with that version as well.

[0093] FIG. 21b shows cap 180 with sealing gasket 184 bonded directly thereto using a two shot or over-mold method. Cap 180 is formed in the first step using a first mold, and gasket 184 is formed in the second step using a second mold. A stepped portion 185 is preferably formed on cap 180 around gasket 184, so that the width dimension of gasket 184 will not extend behind threads 187. This enables gasket 184 to be molded directly in cap 180 against surface 186 using the second insert mold, without threads 187 interfering with the insert mold. In other embodiments, a sealing member, like those discussed previously, can also be molded into the cap using a two shot or overmold method. In such case, to allow both the sealing member and sealing gasket to be formed during the same step, a channel can be extended between the insert mold and cap, extending between the sealing member and gasket, so that material can be injected from the sealing member to the sealing gasket during each production cycle.

[0094] In FIG. 22a, an economical container 190 for holding ice and water around a bottle 191 is shown. Container 190 is preferably sized and shaped to enable a bottle 191 of a predetermined size and shape to be inserted therein. As shown in FIG. 22a, the wall 197 is preferably adapted such that with bottle 191 positioned in container 190, a space 196 is formed between container 190 and bottle 191 for storing ice particles and/or water therein, as in past embodiments. In this embodiment, however, the upper portion 192 of container 190 is preferably narrowed and provided with an opening 193 having an internal edge 194 having a predetermined size and shape, wherein edge 194 is adapted to be substantially pressed against and connected to a pre-formed reciprocal outer perimeter surface of bottle 191, i.e., just below the shoulder.

[0095] In this respect, FIG. 22a shows an embodiment where bottle 191 is specially made to have a horizontal rib portion 195 of a predetermined size and shape, at a predetermined location on bottle 191. Rib 195 is preferably adapted such that internal edge 194 of container 190 can be inserted into rib 195, i.e., snapped in, to form a relatively tight fit, wherein the fit provides a substantially water-tight seal between container 190 and bottle 191, i.e., to seal space 196, and helps to maintain bottle 191 at a predetermined location relative to container 190. And, even if the seal is not water tight, this embodiment can be used with a straw, if desired.

[0096] Rib 195 on bottle 191 is preferably shaped with a central portion having a diameter that enables internal edge 194 of container 190 to fit tightly against it. A lower portion 198 of rib 195 is preferably curved and formed having a diameter only slightly greater than that of edge 194, to enable bottle 191 to slide down, while forming a snap point where edge 194 can be fitted into rib 195. An upper portion 199 of rib 195 preferably has a diameter greater than lower portion 198, so that upper portion 199 can prevent bottle 191 from sliding all the way down into container 190. In this respect, it should be seen that upper portion 199 preferably has a diameter greater than any other portion of bottle 191 below it, such that bottle 191 can be inserted into container 190, while at the same time, bottle 191 can be securely held at a predetermined location inside container 190.

[0097] In this embodiment, no bottom supports for bottle 191 are needed since the engagement of internal edge 194 with horizontal rib 195 preferably holds bottle 191 in position in container 190. This may allow, for instance, the beverage to be poured or consumed directly from bottle 191, without having to remove it from the ice, and without water in the container leaking out. Also, enough of bottle 191 extends above edge 194 so that it can be held by a person's hands to prevent rotation of the bottle as the bottle's lid is being opened and/or closed. Double or triple ribs 195 and corresponding double or triple edges 194 can be provided if needed. Container 190 can have a narrowed lower portion 200 for fitting into cup-holders, as discussed before.

[0098] Upper portion 192 can also be provided with one or more sealing members, blade rings or contact surfaces, etc., similar to those disclosed in Applicant's U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 60/246,493, filed Nov. 6, 2000, and U.S. application Ser. No. 09/983,107, filed Oct. 23, 2001, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety (ribbed and threaded versions are also described). In such case, the sealing surfaces on the container are preferably adapted to engage a corresponding surface on the inner container, which, in this case, is a commercial beverage bottle. Where sealing members, such as blade rings, are used, the beverage bottle preferably has a relatively smooth exterior surface, or one or more horizontal ribs, wherein the engagement of the rings against the exterior surface of the bottle can enable space 196 to be substantially sealed thereby.

[0099] FIG. 22b shows an alternative securing means for container 190 with threads 205 formed on the perimeter of bottle 203, i.e., just below the shoulder 206, that engage threads 204 on an upper portion 202 of container 190. In this embodiment, instead of an internal edge 194, container 190 has internal threads 204 extended around the upper portion 202 thereof, which are adapted to be connected to threads 205, which are extended just below shoulder 206, on bottle 203. In this respect, an upper edge 208 of container 190 is preferably adapted to be pressed and sealed against an abutment portion 207 on bottle 203, such that space 196 between bottle 203 and container 190 can be substantially sealed thereby. Upper edge 208 is preferably adapted with a slightly upwardly and outwardly extended flange that can be resiliently pressed against abutment portion 207, such that the tightening of bottle 203 into container 190 can progressively tighten the seal. Abutment portion 207 preferably has a diameter that is larger than the rest of bottle 203 below it, such that bottle 203 can be rotated into container 190 through opening 193, and be supported by the engagement of upper edge 208 and abutment portion 207. Bottle 203 can, in this respect, be held relatively securely in container190, as discussed above, with no need for supports.

[0100] The embodiment 210 shown in FIGS. 23a and 23b is similar to the one shown in FIGS. 10-13. This embodiment comprises a container 212, threaded cap 214, handle 216, and lower section 218, etc. In this embodiment, however, the lower support 220 is pushed up from floor 217 in a curved manner, wherein floor 217 is otherwise formed in a bowl-like shape. The support 220, in such case, can be similar to the one shown in FIG. 24a. That is, support 220 can extend upward and preferably has five ridges 222 equally spaced apart around the circumference thereof, wherein the five ridges are adapted to fit into the five grooves found on the lower surface of a conventional PET bottle 211. This way, when bottle 211 is inserted into container 212 and held in substantial compression inside container 212 between cap 214 and support 220, bottle 211 can be prevented from rotating. It can be seen that support 220 can have an upper configuration that can be adapted to any particular type of PET bottle, regardless of its shape, by mirroring the shape of the bottom end of the intended bottle, i.e., such as by digital scanning.

[0101] The upper surface of support 220 preferably has five valleys 226 into which the five reciprocal extensions on the lower surface of bottle 211 can be positioned. There is also preferably a central mound 224 that can be fitted into a reciprocal indentation on the lower end of bottle 211. This way, the ridges 222, valleys 226 and mound 224 are preferably designed to meet essentially wall-to-wall so that they mate properly for a secure fit, and easily prevent ice particles from being trapped on top of support 220, as bottle 211 is being shoved down into the ice, thereby allowing the bottle to be inserted all the way down and properly seated without interference from the ice.

[0102] In this respect, the bowl-shaped floor 217 is designed to allow the ice particles, which can be added to container 212 before bottle 211 is inserted therein, to be easily displaced and distributed when bottle 211 is shoved down into the ice. That is, the ice can be added to the container 212 first, and then the bottle 211 can be shoved down into the ice, wherein inserting the bottle will cause the ice at the bottom of the container 212 to be displaced upward due to the bowl-like curvature of floor 217.

[0103] In the embodiment shown, lower section 218 is preferably hollowed out underneath 219 and extended down to provide support for container 212. This enables lower section 218 to be narrowed to fit cup-holders if desired. On the other hand, lower section 218 may be eliminated since container 212 can simply be supported by floor 217 if desired. Alternatively, floor 217 can be made relatively flat 230, as shown in FIG. 24b, rather than pushed up. In such case, flat floor 230 preferably has a plurality of indentations 232 in which the reciprocal extensions on the lower end of bottle 211 can be positioned. This enables the bottle to be positioned properly, and helps prevent bottle 211 from rotating when placed into compression. With flat floor 230, it will be desirable to have lower section 218 extended down to provide a level surface on which to support container 212.

[0104] Container 212 is preferably injection molded with a slight upward and outwardly angled pitch, as shown in FIG. 23a. This further assists in causing the ice to be displaced upward when bottle 211 is shoved down into the ice. This embodiment preferably has a widened neck to enable ice to be added after the bottle is positioned on support 220, wherein it may be desirable to position bottle 211 on top of support 220 before adding the ice. This way, the user can see inside container 212 and position bottle 211 on top of support 220, and can then add ice until container 212 is completely full. Cap 214 is required to be wider due to the wider neck of container 212. In such case, the cap 214 can be designed with web-like members 215 to provide strength and rigidity if desired. Grips 213 can also be provided to make it easier to tighten and remove. While this embodiment is preferably injection molded, the container 212 of this embodiment, without lower section 218, can be injection blow-molded, with a relatively narrow neck, by using a third lower mold piece to form the lower portion of container 212, i.e., to form the shape of support 220 if desired.

[0105] A preferred cap design for the embodiment of FIGS. 6-8 is shown in FIGS. 25a and 25b. This cap 240 has sealing member 242 extended around opening 246, and a sealing gasket 244 within groove 248. Engaging surface 243 is designed to be pressed directly against the shoulder of a bottle, as represented by dashed line 256 in FIG. 25b. Projection 252 is designed to brace sealing member 242 on the outside thereof, and hold sealing member 242, such as with an interference fit. Projection 254 is designed to support sealing member 242, and provide a pinching effect when sealing member 242 is pressed against the bottle. Projection 254 also helps prevent bottles having higher and/or wider shoulder areas, as represented by dashed line 260, from being properly held inside. Line 258 shows how a bottle having a lower and/or narrower shoulder area can allow water to leak, since engaging surface 243 would not make contact with the bottle. When over-mold or two shot methods are used, sealing member 242 can be made narrower, and projection 254 is unnecessary, since the sealing material will bond directly to cap 240 and projection 252.

[0106] It can also be seen that different caps similar to cap 240 can be made to accommodate bottles of different sizes and shapes, even if the same container is used. That is, various PET bottles of the same volume size have similar grooves and indentations on the bottom end, but can otherwise have different upper bottle configurations, such as Coke® and Pepsi® 20 ounce bottles. Accordingly, the present invention contemplates that separate caps can be made to accommodate the different bottles so that a single container can be used for both types of bottles. For example, one cap can be provided to fit a Coke® 20 ounce bottle, and another cap can be provided to fit a Pepsi® 20 ounce bottle. This way, a single container can be sold with multiple caps to enable more than one type of bottle (each having similar lower ends) to fit properly.

[0107] Different size and shape sealing members 242 and sealing gaskets 244 can also be used to accommodate slightly different bottles if desired (so long as the projections 252, 254 will allow them to be used). In such case, the sealing members 242 and sealing gaskets 244 can be made so that they can be hand inserted and secured with an interference fit, wherein sealing members 242 and sealing gaskets 244 can easily be removed and replaced when desired.

[0108] A manufacturing technique that can be used in connection with forming the sealing member 242 and sealing gasket 244 is that the mold can be made so that in each cavity the mold for the sealing member 242 is concentrically located inside the mold for the gasket 244, which has a larger diameter. That is, because sealing member 242 is smaller in diameter than gasket 244, each cavity of the mold can be made such that both member 242 and gasket 244 are formed at the same time, during each production cycle, which can effectively double the production speed.

[0109] In FIGS. 26a-26d, an embodiment 270 suitable for use with a 2 liter bottle 271, or other large size, is shown. In this embodiment, the container 272 preferably has double wall construction, as shown in FIG. 26d. An outer container 273 is preferably extended over an inner container 274. The inner container 274 is preferably formed to fit inside the outer container 273, and on a lower portion thereof has a central support 275, and a curved floor 277, similar to 220 and 217, respectively, shown in FIGS. 23b and 24a. The central support 275 preferably provides support for the lower end of bottle 271, as previously discussed, as well as prevents bottle 271 from rotating once cap 276 is placed on container 272. The curved floor 277 helps to displace ice upward as bottle 271 is pushed down into the ice and container 272.

[0110] Inner container 274 can have web or fin-like extensions 292 extending into space 294 formed between bottle 271 and inner container 274 to provide self-centering effect for bottle 271. Preferably, there are at least three extensions 292, which are curved and configured in a manner that facilitates the displacement and distribution of ice within space 294.

[0111] The outer 273 and inner 274 containers are preferably secured together at the joint where they connect, which is preferably along the top portion 278 of outer container 273, and intermediate portion 280 of inner container 274. An exterior sleeve 279 is preferably extended along intermediate portion 280, forming a narrow groove in which top portion 278 of outer container 273 can be inserted and connected (from below). The connection can be by any conventional means, such as adhesives, chemical bonding, mechanical connection, sonic welding, etc. This way, inner container 274 can be connected to and rest on outer container 273, via top portion 278 and intermediate portion 280, with a cavity 282 between them to provide insulation properties. No additional supports are required between inner 274 and outer 273 containers, although they can be provided if desired.

[0112] The upper portion 283 of inner container 274 preferably has exterior threads 295 for connecting to cap 276, which preferably has interior threads 296. The upper edge of upper portion 283 is preferably adapted to be sealed by cap 276, such as in a manner discussed previously with respect to the other caps. Cap 276 preferably has a sealing member attached to the inside thereof, such as one discussed previously, for pressing and sealing against the shoulder of bottle 271.

[0113] In this embodiment, cap 276 preferably has a pivoting handle 285 located on top of the cooler that pivots about pivot points 286 to enable the cooler to be easily handled. Handle 285 preferably has an extended section 287 designed to clear the top 288 of bottle 271, as shown in FIG. 26a, and to enable a user's hand to comfortably grip the handle 285 while holding the cooler with handle 285 in an upright position as shown. Handle 285 can be used for carrying, in the position shown in FIG. 26a, or for serving purposes, such as in the position shown in FIG. 26b. It can also be laid flat on top of cap 276 as shown in FIG. 26c. A stop 291 is preferably provided on both sides of cap 276 to ensure that handle 285 only pivots in one direction. Handle 285 can be made with web-like stiffeners 289 to maintain rigidity. A smaller diameter grip portion 290 is preferably provided on cap 276 to enable cap 276 to be easily grasped and turned by the user's hands.

[0114] Each main piece, including caps 3, 75, 160, 175, 180, 214, 240, and 276, and containers 5, 55, 77, 130, 150, 180, 190, 212, and 272 is preferably made from a moldable plastic, such as polyethylene, HDPE, polypropylene, PET, PVC, polystyrene, polycarbonate, etc., although any conventional material, such as stainless steel, glass, ceramic, etc., can also be used. While for insulation purposes containers 5, 55, 77, 150, 180, 190 and 212 can be made of materials that conduct heat poorly, or with double wall construction, as shown in FIGS. 19a, 19b, and 26d, they can also simply be made of a relatively thick or rigid plastic. In this respect, the thickness preferably provides rigidity and a sufficient level of insulating properties thereto, although any thickness that provides the necessary support can be used. Caps 3, 75, 160, 175, 180, 214, 240, and 276, and containers 77, 150, 180 and 212, and outer piece 132 of container 130, and plug 176, and inner container 274 of container 272 can be injection molded, while containers 55 and 190, and inner piece 134, and outer container 273 are preferably blow-molded. Blow-molding not only allows the supports, such as 57, 59 and 138, to be indented, but openings 71 and upper portions 135 and 192 to be narrow relative to the portions below it. Container 5 can be made by any suitable method.

[0115] Other steps preferably involved in making caps 3, 75, 160, 175, 180, 214, 240 and 276 and containers 5, 55, 77, 130, 150, 180, 190, 212, and 272 include measuring and/or scanning the bottle to obtain precise shapes and dimensions. Three-dimensional digital scanning can be done on equipment designed for this purpose. This enables the cap and container, and any engaging portion, such as sealing members, edges and surfaces, and supports, to be adapted precisely to a particular bottle, so that the bottle can be held in the container in substantial compression and substantially leakfree.

[0116] The present invention also contemplates that bottles can be custom made to fit the container, i.e., with surfaces that engage the sealing member and supports, if desired, as shown in FIGS. 22a and 22b. That is, the bottles can be made with a predetermined size and shape, and the containers can be designed so that the bottle will fit properly in the containers. Textures, grips and/or indentations can also be provided on the container or cap for improved grip. The containers can have a handle, although a strap, or indented grips 98, as shown in FIG. 18, can also be used. One or both pieces can be made of transparent or translucent material so that the contents can be seen from outside. When double walls are used both can be clear, or one can be clear and the other opaque or translucent. Indicator lines can be provided on each embodiment, and in particular, those where the upper portion is narrowed.

[0117] Since these embodiments are intended for use as promotional or souvenir items, a beverage company's and/or seller's name and/or logo can be printed on one or more of the pieces, and/or labels or graphic wraps can be used. The present invention contemplates that these embodiments can be used to promote the products and services of the beverage company and/or seller whose names and/or logos are printed on them.

[0118] For the above reasons, the present invention encompasses a method wherein one beverage company, including manufacturers, bottlers, suppliers, etc., can use the bottle cooler to increase sales and market share of its bottled beverage products at the expense of its competitors. Because certain embodiments of the present bottle cooler discussed above can be made so that only one or a select type of bottle can fit properly, by promoting that bottle cooler, i.e., getting people to try it and like it, a beverage company can use the bottle cooler as a means of increasing sales of its own bottled beverage products, i.e., those that fit in the cooler. That is, consumers will have to buy bottled beverage products produced by that company if they want to use the bottle cooler to keep their beverages cold, because only those bottles will work properly with the bottle cooler. Buying any other bottled product made by any other company would make it so that the bottle cooler cannot be used.

[0119] This can be done, for example, as discussed above, by adapting the cooler so that the distance between the cap's sealing member and the bottom supports, when the cap is tightened onto the container, will only allow one type of bottle to fit properly. Other adaptations, such as using sealing members that only provide a seal on bottles having a particular size and shape, as well as support members that only fit into grooves and/or indentations on certain bottles, can also be used. In fact, it is contemplated that virtually any type of bottle cooler capable of being used to keep individual bottles cold, that allows a particular bottled beverage product to be positioned inside the bottle cooler, including those discussed above, and those that use refrigerants that have to be refrozen, are within the contemplation of the present method, so that it can be used to promote the bottled beverage products.

[0120] A beverage company that produces PET bottled beverage products having a unique size and shape would have a particular interest in promoting bottle coolers that are made specifically for its bottled beverage products. For example, that company could market and sell, or otherwise help advertise and promote, bottle coolers specifically designed to fit their bottled beverage products, and, in turn, could use the bottle coolers to promote their bottled beverage products. A unique aspect of the present invention is that the bottle cooler can be made so that it can allow only one type of bottle to fit properly, whereas other bottles having different sizes and shapes, would either not fit, or allow water to leak out.

[0121] The present method contemplates that various advertising and marketing efforts can be used to promote the bottle coolers, which in turn, can promote the bottled beverage products. For example, a beverage company can introduce a new advertising campaign, using television commercials, print ads, etc., to promote the bottle coolers and show how they work, i.e., to inform consumers that the bottle coolers are made specifically for their beverage products, and/or that other beverage products, such as a competitor's, won't fit or will allow water to leak. By doing so, that beverage company can potentially increase sales of its bottled products, and, at the same time, potentially take market share away from its competitors, i.e., those that sell beverage products in different bottles.

[0122] In another aspect of the present invention, other enterprises, such as sellers of beverage products, i.e., convenience stores, grocery stores, fast food restaurants, etc., can promote the bottle coolers to promote sales of the bottled beverage products that they sell. For example, a convenience store or fast food restaurant that sells a certain beverage product would have an interest in promoting bottle coolers designed for those products, i.e., a fast food restaurant that sells only Pepsi® products might have an interest in promoting bottle coolers that are designed specifically for Pepsi® 20 ounce bottled products. Likewise, beverage sellers that sell a variety of different kinds of beverage products would have an interest in promoting bottle coolers designed for a variety of these products. That is, the beverage sellers are likely to have an interest in promoting any bottle cooler that would help sell the bottled beverage products that they carry. The present invention contemplates that beverage sellers could use the bottle coolers to promote a wide variety of different brands of bottled beverage products, regardless of make and brand, i.e., any that they sell at their stores.

[0123] Information and material designed to make an association in the minds of consumers between the bottle cooler and the particular bottled beverage products it has been designed for could be shown in advertisements as well as on the bottle cooler itself. Each bottle cooler, for example, could be provided with printed material about the particular beverage products that will work with the bottle cooler, i.e., information can be printed directly on the container to indicate which bottled beverage products the bottle cooler has been designed for. Printed miniature images of the particular bottled products, for example, can be placed on the bottle coolers as a constant reminder that certain bottled products will work. Likewise, information indicating which bottled products the bottle coolers will not work with can be printed on the container, to show consumers which of the products will not fit properly and could leak.

[0124] Beverage companies are likely to have a strong interest in partnering with sellers or sponsors, such as amusement parks, theme parks, sports teams and organizations, fast food restaurants, convenience stores, colleges, universities, movie production companies, concert organizers, music and recording companies, entertainment organizers, event planners, or any organization that sells or promotes drinks and/or promotional drink-ware items, in order to help promote their bottled beverage products. For example, a particular beverage company can enter into a contract with a particular seller or sponsor to have bottle coolers produced with both the beverage company's and sponsor's names and logos on them, i.e., Coke® could enter into a contract with Seven-Eleven® to have bottle coolers that can be used with Coke® products promoted and sold at Seven-Eleven® stores. This can be the means by which the beverage company can use the bottle coolers to promote its bottled beverage products, while at the same time, the sponsor could use the bottle coolers to promote its products and services. Both will have an incentive to enter into the contract to promote their products and services.

[0125] Contracts involving more than two parties, such as a beverage company, a movie production company, and convenience store, could also be provided. In this respect, the bottle coolers could be designed specifically for the beverage company's products, and have a soon-to-be-released movie title of the movie production company printed on the bottle coolers, wherein they could be promoted and sold exclusively at the sponsor convenience stores. Each would have an interest in promoting the bottle coolers, since they will help promote the three companies' products and services.

[0126] Accordingly, promotional information, i.e., advertisements, relating not only to the beverage company, but other sellers and sponsors, can be printed or otherwise provided on the bottle coolers. This can be done, for example, by using the names and logos of the companies that are interested in using the bottle coolers, i.e., as promotional or souvenir items to promote their specific products and services. For example, a theme park, such as Disney World®, Six Flags®, Busch Gardens®, etc., could put their trademarks and/or logos on the bottle coolers, and sell them at their parks, i.e., in conjunction with the bottled beverage products that they sell. This way, when people want to buy a bottled beverage product, such as a Coke® or Pepsi®, they will have the option of buying just the drink, or the drink together with a souvenir bottle cooler specifically designed for that bottle. By buying both, consumers will be able to use the bottle coolers to keep the beverage products that they buy cold, i.e., as they walk around the park. The bottle coolers could also be taken home as a souvenir, wherein they could be re-used with the same bottled beverage products sold elsewhere. This would not only give an incentive to theme park operators to sell bottle coolers, but for beverage companies to partner with theme parks to promote their bottled beverage products.

[0127] The bottle coolers can also be sold at sporting events, concerts, beaches, pools, hotels/resorts, etc., i.e., any location, activity or event where cold drinks are sold or desired. Sports teams, like the New York Yankees®, for example, could sell souvenir bottle coolers that are specifically designed to fit the particular bottled beverage products that they sell at their games. In this respect, a sports team would have an incentive to sell the bottle coolers (or give them away as souvenir promotional items) to help promote the team and its events. At the same time, the bottle coolers can help promote the bottled beverage products that they carry, since spectators would have an incentive to buy the bottle coolers and bottled beverage products so that they can keep the beverages that they buy cold while watching the games. The cooler could also be used by NASCAR, the NBA, NFL football, the beach volleyball circuit, tennis events, college teams, etc.

[0128] The present invention also contemplates that bottle coolers designed for several different beverage bottles could also be used by sellers of beverages to promote sales of the beverage products that they sell. That is, bottle coolers can be made to fit a number of bottles of different brands, and can be sold with the seller's brand name and/or logo printed on them, wherein sales of the bottle coolers can help promote the beverage products sold by the seller. Even though bottle coolers can be made to enable bottles of different shapes and sizes to be supported inside, i.e., not just those sold by that company, by having the brand names and logos printed on the bottle coolers, they will serve to keep that company's products at the top of the consumers' minds. Also, a seller might make purchases of the bottle cooler dependent on purchases of the bottled beverage products that work with the cooler that they carry, as a means of promoting the beverage products sold by the seller.

[0129] For example, convenience store operators and other beverage sellers may want to use the bottle coolers to promote bottled beverage products of different brands that are sold in the same size and shape bottle. They might promote a large bottle cooler capable of holding any 2 liter bottle, as a means of promoting the 2 liter bottled beverage products that they sell. In such case, to the convenience store operator, it would not matter whether the consumer bought a Pepsi® or Coke®, or any other 2 liter beverage product, so long as the consumer buys the bottled beverage products from the convenience store.

[0130] Other methods of associating the individual bottle cooler with certain bottled beverage products, such as providing written instructions on the container, or making the purchase of one dependent on the purchase of the other, such with a discount, can also be used. Sales of the bottle cooler can, for instance, be made dependent on sales of the beverage, i.e., the bottle cooler can be sold for a predetermined price with a purchase of a soft drink. Advertising on TV and radio, with or without information on the bottle cooler itself, could also be used as a means of making people aware that the bottle cooler is intended to be used in conjunction with particular bottled beverage products.

[0131] The beverage company could also enter into an agreement with a seller to sell bottle coolers that promote the beverage company's brand, even if the seller does not sell the particular bottled beverage products that are designed to fit into the bottle cooler. That is, the seller could make the purchase of the bottle cooler dependent on the purchase of other beverage products of the same brand, i.e., produced by the same beverage company, such as a twelve pack of aluminum cans, or six pack of one-half liter bottles, to promote the beverage company's other products. The beverage company or seller could also use the bottle cooler simply to promote its own products and/or services, such as by putting its brand name and/or logo on it.

[0132] The container can also double as a sports bottle or mug, and sold with a dual purpose. In such case, a beverage company or seller could use the bottle cooler container as a means of promoting fountain drinks that the company produces or that the seller sells. In this respect, a separate cap, like the ones shown in FIGS. 21a and 21b, could be produced that could be used in conjunction with the container, to seal the container completely, or to enable a straw to be used. In either case, the separate cap could be sold with the cooler or container, or separately provided, to the consumer.

[0133] The above discussion illustrates some of the preferred embodiments and features of the present invention. It should be understood, nevertheless, that other embodiments and features, such as those not specifically disclosed herein, which may perform in the intended manner, are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0134] For purposes of claiming future priority, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/983,107, filed on Oct. 23, 2001, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/246,493, filed on Nov. 6, 2000, are incorporated herein by reference. PCT/US02/17003 is also incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A method of promoting sales of bottled beverage products, comprising:

producing or having produced, promoting or having promoted, or selling or having sold, said bottled beverage products in bottles having a predetermined size and shape;

producing or having produced, promoting or having promoted, or selling or having sold, an individual bottle cooler adapted specifically for said bottled beverage products, wherein said bottle cooler comprises:

a container adapted to allow only one of said bottles to be inserted at least partially therein at any one time, wherein a predetermined space is formed between said one of said bottles and said container in which standard ice particulates from a standard ice dispenser can be stored in direct contact with said one of said bottles, and at least one support is provided in said container for supporting a lower portion of said one of said bottles in a predetermined location;

a cap for said container having an opening through which a neck of said one of said bottles can extend, wherein said cap has a sealing member that can be pressed and substantially sealed against a shoulder portion of said one of said bottles when said one of said bottles is in said predetermined location, to place said one of said bottles in substantial compression between said sealing member and said at least one support, wherein said space can be substantially sealed thereby.

2. The method of claim 1, comprising giving an incentive to consumers to buy more of said bottled beverage products by basing the size and shape of said bottle cooler on the size and shape of said bottles, wherein said bottle cooler can prevent water inside said space from leaking out when said one of said bottles is positioned in said bottle cooler, and wherein said bottle cooler is specifically adapted such that when other bottled beverage products, in bottles having different sizes and/or shapes, including competing beverage products in bottles having the same volume, are used with said bottle cooler, it cannot prevent water inside said space from leaking out, and/or will not allow said cap to be sealed properly on said container.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein said sealing member is adapted with a sealing portion and a non-sealing portion having a plurality of openings thereon, wherein with said one of said bottles positioned inside said container, said sealing portion can be pressed and substantially sealed against said shoulder portion of said one of said bottles, whereas when one of said other bottled beverage products in bottles having different sizes and/or shapes is positioned inside said container, said non-sealing portion is pressed against a shoulder portion of said one of said other bottled beverage products, wherein water inside said space can leak out through said openings.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the method comprises scanning said one of said bottles and using the digital image created thereby to adapt said sealing member and said at least one support such that said one of said bottles can be held in substantial compression inside said bottle cooler, and said space within said container can be substantially sealed thereby.

5. The method of claim 2, wherein the method comprises scanning said one of said bottles and using the digital image created thereby to adapt said sealing member and said at least one support such that said one of said bottles can be held in substantial compression inside said bottle cooler, and wherein the method comprises scanning said one of said other bottled beverage products and using the digital image created thereby to adapt said sealing member and said at least one support such that said one of said other bottled beverage products cannot be held in substantial compression inside said bottle cooler, and/or will not enable said space within said container to be properly sealed by said cap.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein said at least one support is adapted to fit into a groove and/or indentation located on a lower surface of said one of said bottles, such that with said one of said bottles positioned in substantial compression inside said bottle cooler between said at least one support and said sealing member, said one of said bottles is prevented from rotating inside said container.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein said at least one support comprises a plurality of indentations extending inward from a wall of said container, wherein said indentations help to self-center said one of said bottles and support said one of said bottles in said predetermined location, and maintains a sufficient distance between said one of said bottles and said wall to enable standard sized ice particulates to be stored inside said space and be in direct contact with said one of said bottles in said container.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein said at least one support comprises a supporting member or surface on a floor of said container, wherein said supporting member or surface helps to support said one of said bottles in said predetermined location, while helping to maintain a sufficient distance between said one of said bottles and a wall of said container to enable standard sized ice particulates to be stored and sealed inside said space and be in direct contact with said one of said bottles in said container.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein said method comprises providing or having provided one or more of the following:

a. material provided on said bottle cooler for associating said bottle cooler with said bottled beverage products;

b. miniature images of said bottled beverage products on said bottle cooler for associating said bottle cooler with said bottled beverage products;

c. advertising or marketing efforts for associating said bottle cooler with said bottled beverage products;

d. material provided on said bottle cooler to form a disassociation between said bottle cooler and said other bottled beverage products; and

e. advertising or marketing efforts to form a disassociation between said bottle cooler and said other bottled beverage products.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the method comprises sales of said bottle cooler being conditioned on sales of said bottled beverage products or other beverage product produced by the same company that produces said bottled beverage product.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein said bottled beverage products are associated with a beverage company, and the method comprises said beverage company entering into an agreement with one or more sellers or sponsors, wherein said bottle cooler is adapted to be used in connection with said bottled beverage products, and promoted and/or sold as a means of promoting sales of said bottled beverage products and said one or more sellers' or sponsors' products and/or services.

12. A method of promoting sales of predetermined bottled beverage products, comprising:

producing or having produced, promoting or having promoted, or selling or having sold, said bottled beverage products in bottles having a predetermined size and shape;

producing or having produced, promoting or having promoted, or selling or having sold, an individual bottle cooler adapted specifically for said bottled beverage products, wherein said bottle cooler is adapted to hold and support one of said bottles substantially inside said bottle cooler, wherein the size and shape of said bottle cooler are based on the size and shape of said one of said bottles, and/or the location of a seal point located on said one of said bottles;

wherein said bottle cooler is specifically adapted so that other bottled beverage products in bottles having different sizes and/or shapes, and/or a different seal point, including competing bottled beverage products having the same volume, cannot be held and/or sealed properly inside said bottle cooler; and

promoting or having promoted, and/or selling or having sold, said bottle cooler to consumers of beverage products to promote and increase sales of said bottled beverage products.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein said method comprises providing or having provided one or more of the following:

a. material provided on said bottle cooler for associating said bottle cooler with said bottled beverage products;

b. miniature images of said bottled beverage products on said bottle cooler for associating said bottle cooler with said bottled beverage products;

c. advertising or marketing efforts for associating said bottle cooler with said bottled beverage products;

d. material provided on said bottle cooler to form a disassociation between said bottle cooler and said other bottled beverage products; and

e. advertising or marketing efforts to form a disassociation between said bottle cooler and said other bottled beverage products.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the method comprises sales of said bottle cooler being conditioned on sales of said bottled beverage product or other beverage product of the same brand or produced by the same company that produces said bottled beverage product.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein said bottled beverage products are associated with a beverage company, and the method comprises said beverage company and one or more sellers or sponsors entering into an agreement, wherein said bottle cooler is adapted to be used in connection with said bottled beverage products, and promoted and/or sold as a means of promoting sales of said bottled beverage products, and said one or more sellers' or sponsors' products and/or services.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein said bottle cooler comprises a container in which said one of said bottles can be inserted, wherein when said one of said bottles is placed in said container, a predetermined space is formed between said one of said bottles and said container in which standard sized ice particulates can be stored and sealed in direct contact with said one of said bottles, and at least one support is provided on said container for supporting a lower portion of said one of said bottles in a predetermined location, and wherein at least one of the following caps is provided with said container:

1) a cap provided with an opening through which a neck of said one of said bottles can extend, wherein said cap has a sealing member that can be substantially pressed and sealed against a shoulder portion of said one of said bottles, wherein said one of said bottles can be held in substantial compression between said sealing member and said at least one support, to substantially seal said space;

2) said cap with a plug that can be inserted into said opening to substantially seal said container without said one of said bottles in said container;

3) said cap with a plug that can be inserted into said opening, wherein said plug has a straw and/or other drinking channel extending through it;

4) an alternate cap that can be used to substantially seal said container without said one of said bottles in said container; and

5) a second alternate cap that can be used to substantially seal said container without said one of said bottles in said container, and that has a straw and/or other drinking channel extending through it.

17. A method of promoting sales of predetermined bottled beverage products of a particular brand contained in bottles having a predetermined size and shape, comprising:

providing or having provided, and/or selling or having sold, an individual bottle cooler adapted specifically for said bottled beverage products, wherein said bottle cooler is adapted to hold and support one of said bottles substantially inside said bottle cooler, wherein the size and shape of said bottle cooler are based on the size and shape of said one of said bottles, and/or the location of a seal point located on said one of said bottles;

providing or having provided information and/or promotional material relating to said brand, on or in connection with said bottle cooler, for indicating that said bottle cooler is adapted specifically for said bottled beverage products of said brand; and

promoting or having promoted, and/or selling or having sold, said bottle cooler as a means of promoting and increasing sales of said bottled beverage products and/or other beverage products of said brand.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein sales of said bottle cooler are conditioned on sales of said bottled beverage products, and/or additional beverage products of said brand.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein said bottled beverage products are associated with a beverage company, and the method comprises said beverage company and one or more sellers or sponsors entering into an agreement, wherein said bottle cooler is adapted to be used in connection with said bottled beverage products, and promoted and/or sold as a means of promoting sales of said bottled beverage products, and said one or more sellers' or sponsors' products and/or services.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein said bottle cooler comprises a container in which said one of said bottles can be inserted, wherein when said one of said bottles is placed in said container, a predetermined space is formed between said one of said bottles and said container in which standard sized ice particulates can be stored and sealed in direct contact with said one of said bottles, and at least one support is provided on said container for supporting a lower portion of said one of said bottles in a predetermined location, and wherein at least one of the following caps is provided with said container:

1) a cap provided with an opening through which a neck of said one of said bottles can extend, wherein said cap has a sealing member that can be substantially pressed and sealed against a shoulder portion of said one of said bottles, wherein said one of said bottles can be held in substantial compression between said sealing member and said at least one support, to substantially seal said space;

2) said cap with a plug that can be inserted into said opening to substantially seal said container without said one of said bottles in said container;

3) said cap with a plug that can be inserted into said opening, wherein said plug has a straw and/or other drinking channel extending through it;

4) an alternate cap that can be used to substantially seal said container without said one of said bottles in said container; and

5) a second alternate cap that can be used to substantially seal said container without said one of said bottles in said container, and that has a straw and/or other drinking channel extending through it.