Reusable container with flavor chamber in lid

Abstract

A lid for a cup having at least one flavor chamber, a beverage spout, and at least one sip hole. The beverage spout has a first opening and defines a passage through which a liquid from the cup can flow therethrough. The at least one sip hole has a first opening and defines a passage through which a flavoring from the at least one flavor chamber can flow therethrough.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation in part of application Ser. No. 11/453,393 filed Jun. 15, 2006, which claims priority to Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/723,699, filed Oct. 5, 2005, the entire content all of which are incorporated herein in their entireties.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

Not Applicable

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

In some embodiments this invention relates to lids or caps, for cups, bottles and cans, where the lid includes a flavor chamber that stores one or more different flavors which are to be mixed with the primary liquid contained within the cup, bottle or can, in the mouth of the person drinking from the cup, bottle or can.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the prior art, most of the conventional bottles and cans circulated and sold in markets each contain only a single kind of material, such as a drink or a liquid medicine. When a user wants to add another flavor of liquid or powder to a cup, bottle or can, so as to prepare a mixture prior to drinking or using the mixture, the user must add the substance from a separate container to the liquid contained in the cup, bottle or can, after removing the lid or cap. It is frequently difficult and inconvenient for the user to add a desired amount of the substance, from a separate container, to the primary liquid contained in the cup, bottle or can. This may result in an undesirable change in the taste, and/or quality of the mixed beverage. Furthermore, for “to-go” applications, once the flavor is mixed with the beverage, the opportunities for beverage variety and interactivity with a consumer are negligible.

No beverage lid or cap is known which provides to a user active control over a type and/or amount of flavor to be added to a primary liquid. No beverage lid or cap is known which enables a user to regulate the concentration of a combined primary liquid and flavor additive within an individual's mouth prior to consumption by the individual. Also, no beverage lid or cap is known which provides to a user active control over the flow of supplemental flavor for combination with a primary beverage through the use of an individual's tongue.

A need therefore exists for a lid or cap for a beverage container which offers interactivity, variety, and control, over the mixing of one or more supplemental flavors with a primary beverage. A need exists for a lid or cap which enables a user to choose from an almost infinite number of beverage versus flavor sips, and the control of the beverage sips with a user's tongue. A need exists for lid or cap which permits a user to regulate the inclusion of a precise serving dose of flavor for addition to a primary beverage, thereby providing a highly differentiated beverage flavor system. A need also exists for a lid or cap for a beverage container which allows virtually unlimited combinations of primary beverage and flavor combinations, interactively chosen by a beverage consumer.

The art referred to and/or described above is not intended to constitute an admission that any patent, publication or other information referred to herein is “prior art” with respect to this invention. In addition, this section should not be construed to mean that a search has been made or that no other pertinent information as defined in 37 C.F.R. §1.56(a) exists.

All U.S. patents and applications and all other published documents mentioned anywhere in this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Without limiting the scope of the invention a brief summary of some of the claimed embodiments of the invention is set forth below. Additional details of the summarized embodiments of the invention and/or additional embodiments of the invention may be found in the Detailed Description of the Invention below.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In at least one embodiment, the invention is directed to a lid for a cup. In one embodiment the lid is reusable. In another embodiment, the lid is disposable. The lid includes at least one flavor chamber, a beverage spout, and at least one sip hole. The beverage spout has a first opening and defines a passage through which a primary liquid from the cup can flow therethrough. The at least one sip hole has a first opening and defines a passage through which a flavoring from the at least one flavor chamber can flow therethrough. In at least one embodiment of the reusable lid, the at least one flavor chamber may have at least one seal removably engaged to the flavor chamber, so that at least one flavor may be added to the at least one flavor chamber.

In at least one embodiment, the invention is directed to a straw comprising a first shaft, a second shaft and a connector engaging the first shaft to the second shaft. The first and second shafts each have a defined length. The length of the first shaft is greater than the length of the second shaft.

In at least one embodiment, the invention is directed to a cap for a bottle. The cap has a beverage spout, at least one sip hole and at least one flavor chamber. The beverage spout defines a passage through which a liquid from the bottle can flow therethrough, and may have threads or a snap-on ridge by which the cap may engage the bottle. The at least one sip hole defines a passage through which flavoring from the at least one flavor chamber can flow therethrough.

In at least one embodiment, the invention is directed to a cap for a can, the can having a side. The cap comprising a beverage spout, at least one sip hole and at least one flavor chamber. The cap is constructed and arranged to engage the can with the at least one flavor chamber extending along the side of the can.

In at least one embodiment, the invention is directed to a container comprising a beverage chamber, a flavor chamber and a built-in straw constructed and arranged to allow flavoring to flow therethrough. In one embodiment, the flavor chamber is removably engaged to the container. In one embodiment, the flavor chamber is fixedly engaged to the container.

The embodiments described herein offer interactivity, variety, and control to a user of the flavored container lid because the consumer chooses and varies beverage versus flavor sips, alternatively and interactively. The embodiments described herein allow virtually unlimited combinations of beverage and flavor where the consumer controls the flow of flavor and beverage with an individual's tongue. When a precise serving or dosage is added, this method becomes a highly differentiated beverage flavor delivery system.

These and other embodiments which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for further understanding of the invention, its advantages and objectives obtained by its use, reference may be made to the drawings which form a further part hereof and the accompanying descriptive matter, in which there is illustrated and described an embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

A detailed description of the invention is hereafter described with specific reference being made to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a first embodiment of a lid for disposable cups.

FIG. 2 is a vertical detail cross-section side view of the lid and cup in FIG. 1 taken at line 2-2.

FIG. 3 is the lid and cup of FIG. 2 at an angle to show the dispensing of the flavoring from the flavor chamber and the liquid within the cup.

FIG. 4 is detail isometric view of an alternative embodiment of a lid for disposable cups.

FIG. 5 is a detail vertical cross-section side view of the lid in FIG. 4 taken at line 6-6 of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the lid in FIG. 4 taken at line 6-6.

FIG. 7 is a detail cross-section side view of an alternative embodiment of a lid for disposable cups with an elevated flavor vent.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of an alternative embodiment of a lid with a plurality of flavor chambers.

FIG. 9 is a side view of an embodiment of a dual straw.

FIG. 10 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a dual straw.

FIG. 11 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a dual straw.

FIG. 12 is a detail cross-section side view of a dual straw in an embodiment of the lid.

FIG. 13 is a detail isometric view of a lid with a flavor packet attached to the underside of the lid.

FIG. 14 is a view of the flavor packet in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a top view of an embodiment of a bottle cap for bottles.

FIG. 16 is a detail cross-section side view of the embodiment of FIG. 15 taken at line 16-16.

FIG. 17 is a detail cross-section side view of an alternative embodiment of a bottle cap.

FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a lid as engaged to a disposable can.

FIG. 19 is a detail cross-section side view of the lid of FIG. 18 taken at line 19-19.

FIG. 20 is a view of a first embodiment of a reusable lid with a flavor chamber to be used with a reusable container.

FIG. 21 is a detail cross-section side view of the lid of FIG. 20 taken at line 21-21.

FIG. 21a is an alternative isometric detail view of a disposable flavor chamber for insertion with a lid.

FIG. 22 is an alternative detail cross-section side view of a reusable container with a flavor chamber positioned at the bottom of the reusable container.

FIG. 22a is an alternative detail view of a reusable container with a flavor chamber disposed below the reusable container.

FIG. 22b is an alternative detail view of a disposable flavor chamber.

FIG. 23 is a detail cross-section side view of an embodiment of a reusable container with a flavor chamber positioned at the bottom of the reusable container.

FIG. 24 is an alternative detail cross-section side view of an embodiment of a reusable container with a flavor chamber positioned at the bottom of the reusable container.

FIG. 25 is an alternative detail cross-section side view of an embodiment of a reusable container having a built-in flavor chamber.

FIG. 26 is an alternative detail cross-section side view of another embodiment of a reusable container with a built-in flavor chamber.

FIG. 26a is an alternative cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of a reusable container with a built-in flavor chamber.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While this invention may be embodied in many different forms, there are described in detail herein specific embodiments of the invention. This description is an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated.

For the purposes of this disclosure, like reference numerals in the figures shall refer to like features unless otherwise indicated.

The invention is directed towards lids 10 and caps 10 having flavor storage and flavor delivery properties. These lids and caps 10 may be used with beverage containers 12 such as disposable cups, disposable bottles, disposable cans, reusable bottles and reusable cups. Disposable cups include, but are not limited to, plastic, polystyrene, foam, or paper cups for personal use, vended beverages and to-go applications. Disposable bottles include, but are not limited to, plastic and glass bottles for personal use, such as water bottles or sports bottles, vended beverages and to-go applications. Disposable cans include, but are not limited to, aluminum and steel cans for personal use, vended beverages and to-go applications. Reusable cups include, but are not limited to, lidded or open top cups, including those for children's sippy cups and collectible cups, as well as travel mugs and cups sometimes associated with refills at branded and retail beverage locations.

In at least one embodiment, flavoring may be stored in a flavor chamber 80 or a flavor packet 140 for mixture with a primary beverage. The flavor chamber 80 or flavor packet 140 may be integral or attached to a lid 10 to be used with cups. In general, the invention is also directed to a cap 10 with a flavor chamber 80 to be used with bottles. The cap 10 with a flavor chamber 80 may alternatively be used with cans. Materials used to construct the flavor chamber 80 include, but are not limited to, plastics or aluminum. The cap 10 with a flavor packet 140 may also be used with bottles. Alternatively, the cap 10 with a flavor packet 140 may be used with cans. Materials used to make the flavor packet 140 include, but are not limited to, aluminum or plastic.

In at least one embodiment, packets 140 of liquid flavor may be inserted or positioned within a paper, foil, or plastic flavor chamber 80. Alternatively, the paper flavor chamber 80 may be lined with a fluid barrier membrane. The lid 10 may also be either disposable or reusable. During use, the lid 10 is designed so that multiple lids 10 can be stacked on top of one another, for retrieval for use with a cup, bottle, or can.

In some embodiments, the flavoring stored within the flavor chamber 80 or flavor packet 140 may be in liquid or powder form, for example, flavored syrups (including, but not limited to, chocolate, strawberry, banana, pineapple, cherry), juices, alcoholic beverages, liquid or powdered creamer, liquid or powdered medicines, liquid or powdered dietary supplements, and any combination thereof.

In at least one embodiment, the cap and lid 10 may have at least one sip hole 50. It is within the scope of the invention for the cap or lid 10 to have one, two, three, four, five, six or more sip holes 50. The sip hole 50 is generally an orifice by which the user consumes the flavoring stored within the flavor chamber 80. The sip hole 50 is an opening to the flavor chamber 80, through which the flavoring flows to an individual's mouth, where the volume of flavoring to be mixed with a primary beverage is actively regulated by a users tongue.

In some embodiments, the flow rate of the flavoring through the sip holes 50 depends upon several factors, for example, the thickness of the flavoring, the viscosity of the flavoring, the number of sip holes 50 and the diameter(s) of the sip holes 50. During use of the cap or lid 10 a user may control the amount of flavoring that exits a cap or lid 10 by covering at least one of the sip holes 50 with their tongue to block and regulate the flow rate of the flavoring into an individual's mouth. In alternative embodiments, there are at least two sip holes 50, and if the user desires a reduced amount of flavoring the individual's tongue may be used to cover as many sip holes 50 as are needed to achieve the desired flow rate. Simultaneously with the passage of flavoring, the primary beverage or liquid within the cup, bottle, can, etc. will enter the user's mouth for mixing and drinking through a beverage spout 20 and/or beverage spout passage 22.

In some embodiments, the flow rate of the flavoring may also be regulated by the diameter of the sip hole 50. A flavoring that is thick or viscous, e.g. chocolate syrup, requires a larger diameter sip hole 50 in order to flow at the same rate as a flavoring that is thin, e.g. concentrated or unconcentrated liquid flavors such as juice or milk. The cap or lid 10 may include a plurality of sip holes 50, each sip hole 50 having a progressively larger diameter. Each sip hole 50 may be covered with a sip hole cover 54 formed of individual segments of film, or foil, which may be individually, sequentially, or collectively peeled or removed from the cap or lid 10. Thus, the user may uncover one or more sip holes 50 by peeling off segments of the sip hole cover 54, one orifice at a time, until the desired flow rate of flavoring to an individual's mouth is achieved.

In some embodiments, the sip hole 50 may be a C-shaped flap within the lid 10, which performs in a manner similar to a valve. The C-shaped flap may partially or completely cover the sip hole 50. The flap preferably has a resilient quality to block, partially block, or restrict, liquid flow. The resiliency of the flap may be overcome by sucking upon a sip hole 50 which may be in communication with a one way check valve, to inhibit liquid from cup flowing upstream into the flavor chamber 80.

In some embodiments, the sip hole 50 may be opened by the user when the user pierces the sip hole cover 54 with a sharp instrument. Materials used as the sip hole cover 54 include, but are not limited to, aluminum foil, plastic or paper. In some embodiments, the sip hole cover 54 may be segmented for individual and/or successive removal or penetration to enable flow of flavor. The sip hole cover 54 may be an individual segment for each sip hole 50. In at least one embodiment, the sip hole cover 54 is non-segmented.

In some embodiments, the sip hole 50 is constructed and arranged to restrict spillage of the flavoring, and requires suction to withdraw the flavoring through the sip hole 50. Alternatively a plurality of sip holes 50 may be included in the lid 10 where each sip hole 50 has a diameter that restricts spillage of the flavoring. The sip hole 50 may include a slot or baffle which restricts the spillage or flow of the flavoring into an individuals mouth. The sip hole 50 may also be a silicon sippy valve that restricts the flow of flavoring except when suction is applied.

In at least one embodiment, the sip hole 50 has a sip hole cover or seal 54 which seals the flavoring within the flavor chamber 80 of the lid 10. The sip hole cover 54 is a seal which may be peeled to open the sip hole 50. Alternatively, the sip hole cover 54 may be pierced by a sharp object by the user, to obtain access to the flavoring within the flavor chamber 80. The sip hole cover 54 may alternatively be a plastic flap that may be hinged away from the sip hole 50, to access the flavoring. The sip hole cover 54 may also be a plastic plug which may be removed from the sip hole 50 to access the flavoring.

In some embodiments, the cap or lid 10 includes at least one beverage spout or hole 20. The beverage spout 20 may be described as an opening or orifice in the top of the lid or cap 10 to a beverage spout passage 22, through which the primary liquid or beverage contained within the cup, bottle or can is dispensed to the user. It is within the scope of the invention for the beverage spout 20 to have any geometric shape, including, but not limited to a circle, cylinder, cone, square, a rectangle, an octagon, or an oval. The beverage spout passage 22 may include a lower opening 21 in the bottom of the lid 10. The beverage spout passage 22 is defined by at least one beverage spout wall 26. The at least one beverage spout passage 22 may be of any size or volume desired. Because the at least one beverage spout wall 26 forms a passageway through the lid 10, it may also form a passageway proximate to or through the flavor chamber 80. Thus, the beverage spout wall 26 may separate the flavoring from the primary liquid or beverage in the cup.

In at least one embodiment, the beverage spout 20 is sealed with a beverage spout hole cover 24. Materials used to form the beverage spout hole cover 24 include, but are not limited to aluminum, plastic and paper. In some embodiments, the beverage spout hole cover 24 may be a foil seal. Alternatively, a dual cover may snap into place and cover both the sip hole 50 and the beverage spout hole 20. The beverage spout 20 may include a beverage spout lip 28, which may extend inward from the beverage spout wall 26, thereby forming a smaller orifice than the beverage spout passage 22, as illustrated in FIG. 5 for example.

In at least one embodiment, the lid or cap 10 also has at least one vent. The lid 10 may additionally include a beverage vent 60. In other embodiments, the lid or cap 10 may also include a flavor vent 70. Alternatively, lid 10 may include a flavor vent 70 and a beverage vent 60. The beverage vent 60 is an opening for a beverage vent passage 62, a passageway through the lid 10 that provides pressure equalization within the cup due to the inflow of air.

In some embodiments, the flavor vent 70 is an opening in the flavor chamber ceiling 82 that provides pressure equalization within the flavor chamber 80. The flavor vent 70 may be covered by a flavor vent cover made of foil or other materials as identified herein, which may be removed to open the flavor vent 70 for pressure equalization. The removal of the flavor vent cover from the flavor vent 70 may increase the flow rate of the flavoring through the sip hole(s) 50 into a user's mouth. The flavor vent 70 may alternatively be occluded by a flavor vent cover, which must be pierced to open the flavor vent 70 for pressure equalization. In some embodiments, a valve which is hinged may be used as the flavor vent cover for the flavor vent 70. Alternatively, a plug may be used as the flavor vent cover to close the flavor vent 70, and the flavor vent 70 may be opened by removing the plug.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a first embodiment of a lid 10 adapted to be used with a container 12. The container 12 in FIG. 1 is a cup. The lid 10 is constructed and arranged to engage the top of the cup. In this embodiment, the lid 10 is constructed and arranged to engage the top of the cup by means of a snap on ridge 132, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

The lid 10 may be manufactured from a thermoformed plastic, for example. Alternatively, the lid 10 may be manufactured from polystyrene or PETE. Other materials that may be used to manufacture the lid 10 include, but are not limited to, clear plastics, colored plastics, aluminum, paper and any combination thereof.

In addition to the at least one sip hole 50 described above, the lid 10 may include a plurality of passageway openings, e.g. a beverage spout 20, a straw hole 30, a mix hole 40, a beverage vent 60 and a flavor vent 70. (FIG. 12) FIG. 2 is a cross section of the lid 10 in FIG. 1 taken at line 2-2 and illustrates the different passageway openings, e.g. the beverage spout 20, and compartments, e.g. the flavor chamber 80.

In at least one embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the lid 10 has five elevations 90-98 defined by ridge lines 100-108. All the elevations 90-98 in this embodiment are substantially horizontal. The lid 10 has a first elevation 90 on which the beverage spout 20 and the straw hole 30 are preferably located. The first elevation 90 may be the highest level of the lid 10 and circle the entire lid 10. The first elevation 90 may be defined by a portion of the flavor chamber ceiling 82, as shown in FIG. 2.

In some embodiments, the second elevation 92 of the lid 10 is lower than the first elevation 90 and positioned substantially in the center of the lid 10. The first ridge 100 defines the beginning of the drop in elevation between the first elevation 90 and the second elevation 92. The second elevation 92, in this embodiment, is defined by a portion of the flavor chamber ceiling 82 and a beverage vent lip 68 which defines the beverage vent 60, which is located on the second elevation 92.

In at least one embodiment, the lid 10 also has a third elevation 94, which is lower than the first elevation 90 but higher than the second elevation 92. The third elevation 94 may be positioned on half of the lid 10, and the sip holes 50 may be located on the third elevation 94. A second ridge 102 defines the beginning of the drop in elevation between the first elevation 90 and the third elevation 94. At the ends of the second ridge 102, the transition from the first elevation 90 to the third elevation 94 is gradual. Thus, the downward slope from the second ridge 102 to the third elevation is more acute by the sip holes 50.

In some embodiments, below the third elevation 94 is a fourth elevation 96 which circles the entire lid 10. A third ridge 104 defines the beginning of a portion of the drop in elevation between the first elevation 90 and the fourth elevation 96, and a portion of the drop in elevation between the third elevation 94 and the fourth elevation 96. The fourth elevation 96 is lower than the first elevation 90, the second elevation 92, and the third elevation 94.

In at least one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the bottom or underside of the lid 10 is at the fourth elevation 96. The bottom of the lid 10 has several components, the flavor chamber floor 84, the opening of the beverage spout passage 22 to the cup below, through the opening 21, and the beverage vent passage 62. The lid 10 also has a fifth elevation 98, the lowest elevation, which circles the entire lid 10. The fourth elevation 96 of the lid 10 down to the fifth elevation 98 of the lid 10 defines the snap on ridge 132 by which the lid 10 is engaged to the rim of the cup. The design of the snap on ridge 132 in FIG. 2 is one method by which the lid 10 can be engaged to the cup. The invention also includes other types of snap on ridge 132 designs, as well as other methods of attaching the lid 10 to the cup. FIG. 5 illustrates a different snap on ridge 132 design.

In some embodiments, the flavor chamber 80 is incorporated into the lid 10 and is an enclosed area defined by a flavor chamber floor 84, a flavor chamber ceiling 82 and at least one flavor chamber wall 86. The flavor chamber wall 86 may form the outermost wall of the lid 10. The flavor chamber 80 may be made of plastic or other types of material as discussed herein. The flavor chamber floor 84 may include a printed foil seal engaged to the lid 10. The flavor chamber 80 may be integral or engaged to either the outside of the top of the lid 10, or below the surface of the underside of the lid 10. The flavor chamber floor 84 may additionally include a downward sloping funnel or angle so that flavoring may be released from the flavor chamber 80 through the mix hole 40 into the cup below, as is described in more detail below.

In at least one embodiment, the volume of the enclosed area of the flavor chamber 80 may be varied by adjusting or altering the shape of the flavor chamber 80. For example, the lid 10 in FIG. 2 has a larger flavor chamber 80 than the lid 10 in FIG. 7 because the beverage vent passage 62 in FIG. 7 is larger or has a greater volume. In other embodiments, the flavor chamber 80 may be altered by changing the angles of the flavor chamber ceiling 82, flavor chamber floor 84 or the flavor chamber wall 86, or by adjusting the distance between the flavor chamber ceiling 82 and the flavor chamber floor 84. Altering the number of flavor chambers 80 that are contained within a lid 10 will also affect the size or volume of the individual flavor chambers 80. It is within the scope of the invention for the lid 10 to have one, two, three, four or more flavor chambers 80 of any desired geometric or other shape.

In at least one embodiment, the lid 10 has at least two flavor chambers 80. In some embodiments, the at least two flavor chambers 80 form a flavor chamber insert (not illustrated). The flavor chamber insert may be engaged to, and located between, the lid 10 top and the lid 10 bottom, to form the complete lid 10. The lid 10 may be formed of three or more components, the lid 10 top, the flavor chamber insert and the lid 10 bottom. It is within the scope of the invention for the flavor chamber insert to have one, two, three, four or more flavor chambers 80.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the lid 10 has three flavor chambers, 80A, 80B, and 80C. Each flavor chamber 80A, 80B, 80C has a sip hole 50 B, C, D. The flavoring within each flavor chamber 80A, 80B, and/or 80C may be different. Alternatively, the flavoring within each flavor chamber 80A, 80B, and/or 80C may be the same. In some embodiments, the first flavor chamber 80A may include banana flavoring, the second flavor chamber 80B may have strawberry flavoring and the third flavor chamber 80C may include pineapple flavoring. When a lid 10 with the three flavor chambers 80A-80C embodiment is used with chocolate milk beverage in the cup, the resulting mixture of the chocolate milk with the flavorings within the user's mouth would taste like a banana split.

In some embodiments, a flavor chamber 80A may include powder flavoring, and flavor chamber 80B may include a liquid flavoring. In this embodiment, the relative size of each sip hole 50 in communication with the flavor chamber 80A, and 80B may vary in size to facilitate a desired access rate. In this alternative embodiment, the powder flavoring in flavor chamber 80A, the liquid flavoring for the flavor chamber 80B, and the primary liquid from the container 12 are mixed within an individual's mouth.

In an alternative embodiment of the lid 10, at least two of the flavor chambers 80A and 80B may be in communication with a common passage, where the mixing of the two identical or distinct flavors may occur in the common passage prior to the exit from a sip hole 50. In this alternative embodiment, the two or more flavor combinations and the primary liquid from the container 12 may be mixed within an individual's mouth.

In some embodiments, at least two of the flavor chambers 80A and 80B may be in communication with a common flavor chamber 80C where mixing of the two identical or distinct flavors from the flavor chambers 80A and 80B may occur. In this embodiment, the sip hole 50 may be in communication with the common or flavor mixing chamber 80C for mixing with a primary liquid from the container 12 within an individual's mouth.

In at least one embodiment, the lid 10 has a sip ridge which is constructed and arranged to provide a comfortable fit to the lips, tongue and nose of the user. The sip ridge is an area of the lid 10 that includes the beverage spout 20, the sip hole(s) 50 and the straw hole 30. The exterior of the sip ridge may incorporate artistic markings or trademarks in the form of advertising for a particular business user for resale to consumers.

In some embodiments, the user of the lid 10 may drink the liquid within the cup through the beverage spout 20, and may access the flavoring of the flavor chamber 80 through the sip holes 50, as illustrated in FIG. 3. As depicted in FIG. 2 the beverage spout 20 is preferably located at the highest elevation of the sip ridge. In FIG. 1, the first elevation 90 is the highest elevation of the sip ridge. Alternatively, the beverage spout 20 may be disposed within a depression in the lid 10, as shown in FIGS. 4-6, and include a rim such that the liquid from the cup may be tipped into the user's mouth. The beverage spout 20 may be circular in shape. Alternatively, the beverage spout 20 may have a non-circular shape.

In at least one embodiment, the lid 10 has a straw hole 30. The straw hole 30 may be an opening in the flavor chamber ceiling 82 providing access into the flavor chamber 80, through which the flavoring contained within the flavor chamber 80 may be dispensed to the user. The flavor chamber floor 84 may have an opening, a mix hole 40, positioned directly below the straw hole 30. Both the straw hole 30 and the mix hole 40 preferably include covers namely, a straw hole cover and a mix hole cover 44. The lid 10 is not required to include a straw hole 30.

Three different embodiments of a dual straw 120, are illustrated in FIGS. 9-11. Dual straw 120 may be used with a lid 10 comprising a flavor straw hole 30 and a beverage spout 20. In at least one embodiment, the dual straw 120 has a beverage straw 124 and a flavor straw 122 engaged to each other by a connector 126. As illustrated in FIG. 12, the beverage straw 124 extends through the beverage spout 20 into the cup in order to dispense the primary liquid within the cup. The flavoring may be withdrawn through the flavor straw 122 following penetration through the straw hole cover of the flavor straw hole 30, following insertion of the flavor straw 122 into the flavor chamber 80. As suction is applied to the dual straw 120, the primary liquid from the cup and flavoring from the flavor chamber 80 are drawn out through the dual straw 120 into the user's mouth.

In at least one embodiment, the beverage straw 124 may be used to pierce the straw hole cover of the straw hole 30 on the lid 10. As downward pressure is placed on the beverage straw 124, the beverage straw 124 will penetrate through the flavor chamber 80 until rupture of the mix hole 40 occurs. When the beverage straw 124 is then removed, the flavoring from the flavor chamber 80 will flow from the flavor chamber 80 through the mix hole 40 into the cup below. This allows the flavoring to be mixed directly into the beverage in the cup prior to consumption by an individual.

In some embodiments, the dual straw 120 has a connector 126 which is constructed such that it may be broken to separate the beverage straw 124 from the flavor straw 122. The dual straw 120 may include a straight beverage straw 124 and a straight flavor straw 122, as illustrated in FIG. 9. Alternatively, the dual straw 120 may have at least one bend 128 in the at least one beverage straw 124 and the flavor straw 122. The dual straw 120 may include a straight beverage straw 124 and a flavor straw 122 having at least two bends 128, as illustrated in FIG. 10. The dual straw 120 may alternatively have a beverage straw 124 with at least two bends 128 and a flavor straw 122 having at least two bends 128, as illustrated in FIG. 11.

In at least one embodiment, the beverage straw 124 may have at least one area along the length of the straw 42 which is scored to provide a separation area. The beverage straw 124 may be snapped proximate to the separation area to yield a straw 124 having a shorter length. Both the beverage straw 124 and the flavor straw 122 may have at least one area along the lengths of the straws 122,124 which includes a scored separation area so that the lengths of the straws 122,124 may be adjusted.

In at least one embodiment as depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, the lid 10 has four sip holes 50, which are located proximate to the beverage spout 20. The position of the sip holes 50 proximal to the beverage spout 20 enables a person's mouth to comfortably surround both the beverage spout 20 and the sip holes 50. Alternatively, the sip holes 50 and the beverage spout 20 may be positioned side by side in the lid 10. Alternatively, the sip holes 50 and the beverage spout 20 are preferably arranged such that when the user is drinking from a disposable cup the sip holes 50 initially have a higher elevation, i.e. are above, the beverage spout 20 on the sip ridge.

In some embodiments, the flavor vent 70 is positioned on the lid 10 opposite from the sip hole(s) 50 and may be covered by a flavor vent seal that may be peeled off to open a pressure equalization conduit. The flavor vent seal may be made from foil or other materials as identified herein. The elevation of the flavor vent 70, as illustrated in the cross-section of FIG. 2, is raised above the flavor chamber 80. This prevents the flavoring in the flavor chamber 80 from leaking through the flavor vent 70. The sizes of the flavor vent 70 and the beverage vent 60 may vary. As shown in the cross-section of FIG. 7, the beverage vent 60 may have a larger volume or size than the beverage vent 60 of FIG. 1. Also, the flavor vent 70 of FIG. 7 may have a different volume or size than the flavor vent 70 of FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, the beverage vent 60 is positioned on the lid 10 opposite from the beverage spout 20. The beverage vent 60 may have an elevation less than the flavor vent 70 and the beverage spout 20, but equal to the top of the flavor chamber 80, as illustrated in the cross-section of FIG. 2. Alternatively, the lid 10 as illustrated in FIG. 7, may have a beverage vent 60 located at an elevation slightly higher than the flavor chamber 80. The lid top and lid bottom may include a more proficient seal for the beverage vent 60, in order to enhance the performance of the air pressure equalization passage to the cup without leaking flavoring from the flavor chamber 80. It should be noted that, the lid 10 is not required to have a flavor vent 70.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of another embodiment of a lid 10 for a cup. FIG. 5 is a cross-section of the lid 10 in FIG. 4 taken at line 5-5 and FIG. 6 is a top view of the lid 10 in FIG. 4 taken at line 6-6. This embodiment has a sip hole 50, a beverage spout 20, a flavor chamber 80, a beverage vent 60. The beverage spout 20 may have a geometric shape similar in appearance to a section of a circle. One sip hole 50 as depicted in FIG. 4 may have a larger diameter opening as compared to the four sip holes 50 with smaller diameter opening, as shown in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the sip hole 50 may have a sip hole cover 54. A flavor vent 70 may also be provided, as shown in FIG. 6. In addition, the snap-on ridge 132 of the lid 10 in FIG. 5 may have a different configuration as compared to the snap on ridge 132 of the lid 10 in FIG. 1. The specific geometry of the snap on ridge 132 depends upon the rim configuration of the cup as well as the material used to make the cup.

In some embodiments, the lid 10 in FIGS. 4-6 has fewer elevations than the lid 10 in FIGS. 1 and 2. One of the elevations of the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 4-6 has a downward sloping angle instead of being horizontal as depicted with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2. In both embodiments as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, and 4-6, the highest elevation of the lid 10 is the first elevation 90. The sip hole 50 is preferably located at elevation 90. FIG. 6 indicates a possible location of a flavor vent 70 as opposite to the sip hole 50. The flavor chamber ceiling 82 and the sip hole lip 58 define the first elevation 90. The second highest elevation is the second elevation 92. The second elevation 92 has two regions 92A, 92B. The first ridge 100 defines the transition from the first elevation 90 to the first region 92A of the second elevation 92. The beverage spout 20 is located at the first region 92A and the first region 92A surrounds the beverage spout 20. This embodiment does not have a beverage spout passage 22 or a bottom opening 21. Instead the beverage spout lip 28 of the beverage spout 20 is positioned at the bottom of the lid 10, not at the top of the lid as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. The lid 10 may include an additional small plastic insert that is placed within the first region 92 and forms an beverage spout 20 and beverage spout passage 22. The second ridge 102 defines the transition from the first elevation 90 to the second region 92B of the second elevation 92, which circles the lid 10. The second region 92B rests on the lip of the cup therefore, at a minimum the width of the second region 92B is equal to the width of the cup lip. The second region 92B may have any configuration so long as the lid 10 is engaged to the cup. One portion of the second region 92B has a greater width, so that a beverage vent 60 may be located distal from the beverage spout 20. The third ridge 104 defines the transition from the second region 92 to the third elevation 94 which circles the entire lid 10. The third elevation 94 is not substantially horizontal as earlier disclosed, but rather has a slight downward angle.

Although the embodiments described above have a flavor chamber 80, in some embodiments, the flavoring may be retained within a flavor packet 140. FIG. 14 illustrates a flavor packet 140. In at least one embodiment, the flavor packet 140 is constructed from foil. Alternatively, the flavor packet 140 may be constructed from plastic. The flavor packet 140 may be engaged to either the exterior of the top of the lid 10, or to the underside of the lid or cap 10 by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the flavor packet 140 is manufactured separately from the lid 10 and is engaged to the lid 10 prior to use with a cup or other container. FIG. 14 illustrates the flavor packet 140 engaged to the underside of the lid 10.

In at least one embodiment, flavoring is accessed by piercing through the flavor packet 140 with a straw. Following piercing of the flavor packet 140, the flavoring mixes with the liquid in the container. Flavoring from the flavor packet 140 may flow through the sip hole 50 and into the consumer's mouth. The flavoring in the flavor packet 140 may be accessed by removing a seal which occludes the sip hole 50.

In some embodiments the cap or lid 10 may be used with a bottle as depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16. The materials used to make the cap 10 for a bottle include, but are not limited to, molded plastic, thermoformed plastic, clear plastic, colored plastic, aluminum, paper and any combination thereof. The cap 10 may be attached to the bottle by means of threads 130, much like a threaded seal which originally closed the bottle. The threads 130 are protrusions extending from the beverage spout wall 26. The cap 10 has a sip ridge which is constructed and arranged to provide a comfortable fit to the lips, tongue and nose of the user. The sip ridge is an area of the cap 10 that includes the beverage spout 20 and the sip hole(s) 50. In at least one embodiment, the sip ridge may incorporate markings or advertisements for a specific beverage manufacturer. In an alternative embodiment, the cap 10 may be snapped onto a bottle which does not include threading and may be attached to a bottle in a manner similar to the attachment of a bottle-cap. In this embodiment, the threads 130 may be replaced with a pressure ridge constructed to engage a fastening protrusion as integral and proximate to a bottle opening.

In at least one embodiment as depicted in FIG. 15, the sip ridge of the cap 10 has a beverage spout 20 and three sip holes 50. The beverage spout 20 may be disposed within a depression in the cap 10, and may have a shape similar to the natural shape of a bottle spout, so that the liquid within the bottle may be tipped into a consumer's mouth without interfering with the consumer's nose. The beverage spout 20 is preferably of sufficient size to allow pressure equalization of the beverage in the bottle. The beverage spout 20 is defined by a beverage spout lip 28 which extends inward from the beverage spout wall 26. The beverage spout 20 may include a resealable cap or plug which may be engaged onto the cap 10 in the depression to seal or close the beverage spout 20.

A cross section side view of at least one embodiment of the cap 10 is shown in FIG. 16 as taken at line 16-16 of FIG. 15. The flavor chamber floor 84 in this embodiment extends along the side of the bottle and the flavor chamber wall 86 is a distance away from the flavor chamber floor 84 and the side of the bottle. In an alternative embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 17, the flavor chamber floor 84 is horizontal and extends away from the bottle, and does not descend or follow the contour of the exterior of the side of the bottle. The alternative embodiment of the cap 10 in FIG. 17 may also be used as a lid for a cup if modified to have the snap on ridge 132 of FIG. 1. In both embodiments of FIGS. 16 and 17, the flavoring within the flavor chamber 80 flows out via the sip hole(s) 50 when the bottle is held at an angle. The flavor chamber floor 84 may be formed by affixing a printed foil top to a plastic bottle top package. FIG. 16 also illustrates where a flavor vent 70 may be placed in the cap 10. In at least one embodiment, the cap 10 has a flavor vent 70. In at least one embodiment, the cap 10 does not have a flavor vent 70.

In at least one embodiment as depicted in FIG. 18 a cap 10 may be used with a can. FIG. 19 shows a cross-section of FIG. 18 taken at line 19-19. Materials used to make the cap 10 include, but are not limited to, molded plastic, thermoformed plastic, clear plastic, colored plastic, aluminum, paper and any combination thereof. The cap 10 engages the top or lid of the can by means of a snap on ridge 132. The cap 10 has a sip ridge which is constructed and arranged to provide a comfortable fit to the lips, tongue and nose of the user. In at least one embodiment, the beverage spout 20 is the can orifice, and the-sip hole(s) 50 are positioned in the cap 10 so that a person's lips can surround both the beverage spout 20 and the sip hole(s) 50. The sip ridge may incorporate markings or advertising as desired by a retailer.

In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the beverage spout 20 is positioned immediately adjacent to the sip ridge. The beverage spout 20 exposes the top of the can through the cap 10 and incorporates the rim of the can, so that the liquid within the can is tipped into the consumer's mouth when the can is held at an angle. The cap 10 is placed onto the can so that the sip hole(s) 50 are in front of the opening of the can. A straw may be placed through the beverage spout 20 to access the liquid within the can. As shown in FIG. 19, the flavor chamber 80 is positioned opposite from the sip hole(s) 50. The flavor chamber floor 84 in this embodiment extends along the side of the can and the flavor chamber wall 86 is a distance away from the flavor chamber floor 84 and the side of the can. The flavor chamber 80 may be formed by affixing a printed foil top to a plastic can top package. The position of the optional flavor vent 70 is illustrated in FIG. 19.

In some embodiments, the lid(s) 10 may be stacked and shipped at ambient temperature. The provision of at least two flavor chambers 80A and 80B may minimize shipping expense in situations where a flavoring as contained within flavor chamber 80A, if mixed with a flavoring as contained within flavor chamber 80B, would then require refrigeration to prolong shelf life to avoid waste. Alternatively, lid(s) 10 may be stacked and shipped in bulk, in a refrigerated compartment, to prolong shelf life and usefulness of the lid(s) 10.

In at least one embodiment, individual lid(s) 10 may be formed of a material which may be exposed to microwave energy, to facilitate heating of liquid transported in flavor chambers 80. Heated liquid as contained within flavor chamber(s) 80 may then be combined with primary liquid within container 12 to facilitate mixing within an individual's mouth.

The alternative lid 10 embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 20-21a may include a reusable flavor chamber 80. In this embodiment lid 10 may be used with a reusable container 12 such as a cup or bottle. FIG. 21 depicts a cross-section detail side view of the lid 10 of FIG. 20 taken at line 21-21. The lid 10 may be engaged to the container 12 by threads 130, and may have features similar to those described in the lid of the earlier embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1-19. The lid 10 may be removably engaged to the container 12 by any means, including but not necessarily limited to, a snap on ridge as illustrated in FIG. 2.

The alternative embodiment depicted in FIGS. 20-21a include a sip hole 50, a sip hole passage 52, a sip hole lip 58, a beverage spout 20 shown with a beverage spout hole cover 24, a beverage spout passage 22, and a flavor chamber 80. The lid 10 may also have a flavor vent 70, and a beverage vent 60 as earlier described. The positioning considerations for the sip hole 50, sip hole passage 52, sip hole lip 58, beverage spout 20, spout hole cover 24, beverage spout passage 22, flavor chamber 80, flavor vent 70, and beverage vent 60 are substantially identical for the lid 10 as described in the earlier embodiments disclosed herein.

Some embodiments of the reusable container 12 include a flavor vent 70 and/or sip hole 50 where each of the flavor vent 70 and/or sip hole 50 may have either a silicone valve or plug 144 which may be removable/replaceable. A valve or plug 144 in the flavor vent 70 preferably prevents flavoring from exiting the flavor vent 70 when flavoring is added to the flavor chamber 80. A valve 144 as used in a flavor vent 70 or sip hole 50 may be formed of silicone having a central depression and/or aperture which is closed and blocks liquid or air passage therethrough. The valve 144 is preferably constructed to receive the insertion of a straw 32, 30a, 30b, or other penetrating member through the central depression and/or aperture. The silicone walls of the valve 144 preferably stretch and deform to mold to the exterior surface of the straw 32, 30a, 30b, to establish a liquid impervious seal therebetween. The insertion of the straw 32, 30a, 30b, or other penetrating member thereby opens the valve 144 for liquid or air passage therethrough. It is contemplated that any pliable material may be used to form the valve 144, including but not necessarily limited to, rubber, and plastic as well as the silicone disclosed herein.

Similar to the lids 10 as earlier described, the lid 10 illustrated in FIGS. 20-21a has a first elevation 90 and a second elevation 92, with the second elevation 92 being lower than the first elevation 90. The sip hole 50 is preferably positioned on the first elevation 90 and the beverage spout 20 is positioned on the second elevation 92. The first elevation 90 may encircle the entire lid 10. A first ridge 100 defines the beginning of the drop in elevation between the first elevation 90 and the second elevation 92. The second elevation 92 may be either substantially horizontal or have a slight incline from the beverage spout 20 towards the first elevation 90 opposite from the beverage spout 20, as illustrated in FIG. 21. The second ridge 102 may include the entire lid 10 and defines the beginning of the side of the lid 10.

In at least one embodiment of either the disposable or reusable container 12, the flavor chamber floor 84 may be a removable cover or plug which allows the consumer to remove the flavor chamber floor 84 in order to add more flavoring to the flavor chamber 80. (FIG. 21) Although in this embodiment, the removable cover or plug forms the entire flavor chamber floor 84, it is within the scope of the invention for the removable cover or plug to have any size or shape, provided the same may be removed, and flavoring added to the flavor chamber 80. The removable feature of the flavor chamber floor 84 allows the flavor chamber 80 to be reusable, unlike the single use flavor chamber 80 embodiments. An O-ring 148 may be disposed about the flavor chamber floor 84 to facilitate the sealing engagement between the flavor chamber floor 84 and the flavor chamber walls 86 and flavor chamber 80.

In an alternative embodiment as depicted in FIG. 21a, the flavor chamber 80 may be substantially cylindrical in shape. Liquid flavor is preferably disposed within the interior of the flavor chamber 80 for upward insertion into the lid 10. The liquid flavor is preferably sealed within the flavor chamber 80 by a removable cover 132 which may be formed of foil. In this embodiment, the flavor chamber 80 may be disposable. In this embodiment, even though the flavor chamber 80 may be disposable, the lid 10 and/or cup may be reusable. An O-ring 148 may be disposed about the flavor chamber floor 84 to facilitate the sealing engagement between the flavor chamber floor 84 and the flavor chamber walls 86 and flavor chamber 80.

In at least one embodiment, the flavor chamber 80 is preferably adapted for placement upon the flavor chamber floor 84, for upward insertion into the interior of the reusable lid 10. The open top of the flavor chamber 80 enables flavor to communicate with the sip hole passage 52 and sip hole 50 for mixing within a consumers mouth. The coupling of the flavor chamber floor 84 to the lid 10 preferably seals the flavor chamber 80 and flavor within the interior of the lid 10 for consumption by a consumer. In this embodiment the flavor chamber 80, lid 10 and container 12 may be either reusable or disposable. An O-ring 148 may be used between the flavor chamber floor 84, flavor chamber walls 86, and flavor chamber 80 as earlier described.

The reusable or disposable flavor chamber 80 may be embodied in any configuration as described herewith in reference to FIGS. 1-19. The reusable or disposable flavor chamber 80 may be located above, below, in surrounding relationship to, disposed within, adjacent to, integral with, or releasably engaged to container 12 which may be a cup, bottle, or other vessel for retaining consumable liquids.

In at least one alternative embodiment, the lid 10 of FIG. 21 is reusable. In this embodiment, the sip hole passage 52 may be obstructed through the use of a valve, plug, and/or seal 144, whereupon the lid 10 may manipulated approximately 180°, so that the flavor chamber 80 is disposed upwardly. In this embodiment, the lid 10 may also include a flavor vent 70 which may also be obstructed through the use of a plug, stop, valve, and/or seal 144. The manipulation of the lid 10 to dispose the flavor chamber 80 upwardly enables the chamber floor 84 to be separated from the flavor chamber wall 86 for filling of the flavor chamber 80 with flavor. Following the introduction of a desired volume or amount of flavor, the flavor chamber floor 84 may be returned into a covering/sealing relationship relative to the flavor chamber 80. The entire lid 10 may then be manipulated approximately 180°, for insertion into the open top of a vessel having a beverage chamber 16 filled with a primary beverage. The threads 130 of the side wall 86 of the lid 10 preferably seal the lid 10 relative to the vessel or container 12 to prevent leakage therebetween. An O-ring 148 may be used to facilitate the seal between the flavor chamber floor 84 and the flavor chamber 80 as earlier described. The plug, stop, valve, or seal 144 may then be opened through the use of a straw, or removed from the sip hole 50, and/or the flavor vent 70, for use of the lid 10 having flavor chamber 80 during consumption of a primary beverage.

In at least one alternative disposable embodiment, the chamber floor 84 is not required to be releasably separable from the flavor chamber 80. In at least one embodiment, the chamber floor 84 includes a fill hole passage 146 which may be releasably obstructed by the use of a plug, stop, and/or valve 144. In this embodiment, a plug, stop, and/or valve 144 may be inserted into obstructive positioning relative to the sip hole 50 and/or flavor vent 70, whereupon the lid 10 may be manipulated approximately 180°, so that the fill hole passage 146 is disposed upwardly. The seal, stop, plug, and/or valve 144 within the sip hole passage 146 may then be penetrated or removed, where filling of the flavor chamber 80 with flavor may occur through the fill hole passage 146. Once a desired volume or amount of flavor has been added into the flavor chamber 80 through the fill hole passage 146, the fill hole passage 146 may be closed by the withdraw of a straw which closed the valve 144 or by the insertion of the plug, stop, and/or seal. The entire lid 10 may then be manipulated approximately 180° for insertion into the open top of a vessel or container 12 having a beverage chamber 16 filled with a primary beverage. An individual may then open any valve 144, or withdraw any stop, seal, or plug within the sip hole 50 and/or flavor chamber 70 for use of the lid 10 having flavor chamber 80. It should be noted that the flavor fill hole passage 146 may be located in any wall, flavor chamber wall 86, bottom 150, cover 132, top or sides of flavor chamber 80, and is not restricted to positioning within a bottom 150 or base.

FIGS. 22-24 illustrate alternative embodiments of a reusable or disposable container 12 having a flavor chamber 80 insert, where the flavor chamber 80 is located at the bottom of the reusable container 12. Although the container 12 in FIGS. 22-24 is tapered, the container 12 may have any shape. In these embodiments, the reusable and/or disposable container 12 preferably has a beverage chamber 16 into which a primary liquid is confined. The beverage chamber 16 may be open at the top, as illustrated. Alternatively, a lid 10 having a beverage spout 20 may be engaged to the reusable and/or disposable container 12, thereby forming a ceiling for the beverage chamber 16. Additionally, the reusable container 12 may include a built-in straw hole passage 32 which may form a portion of the side of the reusable container 12. In alternative embodiments, the straw hole passage 32 may be integral with the wall of the container 12 or may be permanently or releasably attached thereto at any location relative to the container 12.

Two different configurations of the straw hole passage 32 are illustrated in FIGS. 22-24, however, any straw hole passage 32 configuration is contemplated as being within the scope of the invention. The straw hole passage 32 has an upper straw hole 30a and a lower straw hole 30b.

If a consumer desires flavoring from the flavor chamber 80 to be mixed with the primary liquid from the beverage container 16, the consumer places their mouth over the upper straw hole 30a and drinks from the reusable container 12. The upward tipping of the container 12 enables flavoring to flow from the flavor chamber 80, through the lower straw hole 30b, through the straw hole passage 32 and out of the upper straw hole 30a into the consumer's mouth, where it mixes with the liquid from the beverage chamber 16.

In some embodiments of the reusable and/or disposable container 12 with a flavor chamber 80, the flavor chamber 80 is incorporated into the bottom of the container 12 in a different manner. For the embodiments, illustrated in FIGS. 22-23, the flavor chamber 80 may be inserted into a space below the beverage chamber 16, so that a portion of the container 12 separates the bottom of the beverage chamber 16 from the ceiling 82 of the flavor chamber 80. In contrast, the embodiment in FIG. 24 does not have a portion of the container 12 separating the beverage chamber 16 and the flavor chamber 80, since the flavor chamber 80 is inserted into the interior of the beverage chamber 16 proximate to the bottom.

It is within the scope of the invention for the flavor chamber 80 in these embodiments, to be either disposable or reusable. In some embodiments, the container 12 has a reusable flavor chamber 80, where the straw hole passage 32 has a valve 144. The valve 144 retains the flavoring within the flavor chamber 80, until a straw is inserted into the straw hole passage 32, which traverses the valve 144 to access the flavoring.

In FIG. 22, the flavor chamber 80 may be snapped onto the bottom of the reusable container 12 so that the bottom portion 30b of the built-in straw hole passage 32 penetrates the valve 144 for passing into the flavor chamber 80. In an alternative disposable embodiment, the flavor chamber ceiling 82 may include at least one section of foil 142, so that the bottom portion 30b of the built-in straw hole passage 32 pierces the foil for insertion into flavor chamber 80. In another disposable flavor chamber 80 embodiment, the flavor chamber ceiling 82 has an opening sized to receive the straw hole passage 32. When the flavor chamber 80 is attached to the bottom of the reusable container 12, the opening in the flavor chamber ceiling 82, and the straw hole passage 32, may be aligned so that the straw hole passage 32 is inserted into the opening through the flavor chamber ceiling 82. As seen in FIG. 22b, alignment between the lower straw hole 30b and the aperture 136 may be accomplished through the use of a key 154 as slidably received in a key groove 156. The key 154 and key groove 156 may be placed between an adjacent flavor chamber 80 and beverage chamber wall 18. In an alternative embodiment, the area proximate to, and immediately above, the aperture 136 may include a funnel structure, which may be used as a guide to slidably position the lower straw hole 30b within the aperture 136.

In an alternative disposable embodiment as may be seen if FIG. 22a, flavor chamber 80 may be substantially cylindrical in shape having integral floor 84 or base. In this embodiment, flavor chamber 80 preferably includes a cylindrical chamber wall 86 and a top 134 encloses flavor chamber 80. Top 134 may include an aperture 136 which may be sealed with foil 142 for piercing by lower straw hole 30b during engagement of the flavor chamber 80 to the container 12. In an alternative reusable embodiment, the aperture 136 may be adapted to receive a valve 144 which may be traversed during insertion of lower straw hole 30b into the interior of the flavor chamber 80. As earlier described a sealing relationship exists between the valve 144 and lower straw hole 30b following insertion of the lower straw hole 30b into the flavor chamber 80. In some embodiments, the valve or plug 144 may be used to provide access to the interior of the flavor chamber 80, to fill and/or refill the flavor chamber 80 with flavor. The flavor chamber 80 may therefore be disposable and/or reusable at the preference of an individual.

In an alternative embodiment as depicted in FIG. 22b a reusable base 138 is shown having floor 84. Base 138 preferably has an open interior 140 which may be substantially cylindrical or any other shape as desired. The base 138 preferably includes a key guide 154. The base 138 is preferably adapted to receive a flavor chamber 80 having a chamber wall 86, key groove 156, and aperture 136. In some embodiments, the flavor chamber 80 is adapted for deposit within open interior 140 for mating with container 12 and insertion of lower straw hole 30b into aperture 136. As earlier described, aperture 136 may be sealed with foil 142 in a disposable embodiment. In some embodiments, the flavor chamber 80, as depicted in FIG. 22b, may include a valve 144 in aperture 136 facilitating ease of use of a reusable container 12.

In at least one embodiment as illustrated in FIG. 23, the flavor chamber 80 is positioned in the bottom of the reusable container 12, and may be held in place by a screw-on bottom 150. The screw-on bottom 150 has threads 130 which mate with grooves on the inside of the wall of the reusable container 12. In some disposable embodiments, a disposable flavor chamber 80 may include a flavor chamber ceiling 82 having one or more sections of foil 142 to enable the bottom portion 30b of the built-in straw hole passage 32 to pierce the foil sections. The lower straw hole 30b may be angled to facilitate piercing of the foil 142, however, it is within the scope of the invention for the lower straw hole 30b to be parallel to the bottom of the reusable container 12. In at least one alternative disposable flavor chamber 80 embodiment, the flavor chamber ceiling 82 includes an arcuate opening sized to receive the straw hole passage 32. During the attachment of the flavor chamber 80 to the bottom of the container 12, the arcuate opening in the flavor chamber ceiling 82, and the straw hole passage 32 may be aligned, as earlier described, so that the lower straw hole 30b may be inserted into the arcuate opening through the flavor chamber ceiling 82. In the reusable embodiment, it is contemplated that flavor chamber 80 having screw on bottom 150 would include an open top to permit rotation of the lower straw hole 30b therebetween.

The features as disclosed relative to the alternative embodiments for FIGS. 22b are equally applicable with respect to screw-on bottom 150 embodiment of FIG. 23. In addition, the flavor chamber 80 of FIG. 22a may be modified to separate the chamber floor 84 from the flavor chamber 80 for replacement of the chamber floor 84 by the screw-on bottom 150. This configuration provides alignment of the aperture 136 with the lower straw hole 30b. In some embodiments, the shape of the flavor chamber 80 is not required to be cylindrical and may be square or cubical, triangular or prism shaped, oval, and/or any other shape as desired. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein relative to FIGS. 20-26a, the bottom 150 may be screw-on, snap-on, or affixed to the container 12 in any desired manner.

In at least one embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 23, during use of a reusable flavor chamber 80, a flavor vent 70, with associated vent in the bottom 150, or side of the flavor chamber pocket, may be provided. A valve, stop, or plug 144 may be disposed in flavor vent 70 for transition into an open configuration, in order to facilitate the passage of flavor within the flavor chamber 80 through the straw hole passage 32. In same embodiments, the aperture 136 may additionally function as a fill hole for the flavor chamber 80.

In at least one disposable or reusable embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 23, it is contemplated that a flavor chamber 80 will be inserted into a flavor chamber pocket disposed below a beverage chamber 16. The screw-on bottom 150 may then be attached to a vessel 12 whereupon primary liquid may be placed within the beverage chamber 16.

FIG. 24 illustrates an alternative embodiment by which a flavor chamber 80 may be inserted into the interior and bottom of a container 12. In some alternative embodiments of the flavor chamber 80, the consumer may insert the flavor chamber 80 into the interior of the container 12 for positioning proximate to the bottom, by holding a flavor chamber handle 81, and causing the lower straw hole 30b of the straw hole passage 32 to pierce a foil barrier 142 or valve 144, which is a portion of the wall 86 of the flavor chamber 80. A lower straw hole 30b that is angled may facilitate the piercing of the foil 142, but it is within the scope of the invention for the lower straw hole 30b to be parallel to the bottom of the reusable container 12. In at least one alternative embodiment, the flavor chamber handle 81 is an extension of the flavor chamber wall 86 opposite to the portion of the flavor chamber wall 86 comprising the foil 142 portion. In at least one alternative disposable flavor chamber 80 embodiment, the flavor chamber handle 81 is engaged to the outer surface of the flavor chamber ceiling 82. Since the container 12 may have any shape or configuration, the flavor chamber 80 similarly may have any shape or configuration, so long as it may be easily inserted into the interior of the container 12 proximate to the bottom 84.

As may be seen in FIG. 24, the flavor chamber 80 having handle 81 is placed into container 12 before a primary liquid is added to the beverage chamber 16. The handle 81 is used to lower the flavor chamber 80 to the bottom of the container 12 for positioning of the foil seal 142 proximate to the lower straw hole 30b. The handle 81 may then be rotated downwardly for sliding of the lower back comer or edge of the flavor chamber 80 against the interior wall of the container 12 to facilitate the insertion of the lower straw hole 30b through the foil or seal 142, and the positioning of the flavor chamber 80 proximate to the chamber floor 84 of the container 12. Primary liquid may then be added to the beverage chamber 16. A lid or cover 10 may alternatively be engaged to the container 12 following the inclusion of the primary liquid.

Although not shown, the container 12 with a built-in straw hole passage 32 may utilize a flavor chamber 80 having a flavor vent 70 as earlier described. The flavor vent 70 may have a peal off seal or a removable or replaceable plug.

In a reusable flavor chamber 80 embodiment, the flavor chamber 80 may also have a fill hole passage 146 (FIG. 21) through which the consumer adds flavoring to the flavor chamber 80. The fill hole passage 146 may be located in the flavor chamber floor 84, the flavor chamber walls 86, or the flavor chamber ceiling 82 in this embodiment or in any embodiment disclosed related to FIGS. 20-26a. The fill hole passage 146 preferably includes a plug or cover which may be temporarily removed in order to add flavoring to the flavor chamber 80, and re-inserted to close the fill hole 146. In at least one reusable embodiment, the upper straw hole 30a includes a valve 144 and the flavor chamber includes a valve 144 in replacement of the foil seal 142.

In an alternative embodiment, instead of inserting a flavor chamber 80 into the bottom of the container 12, the reusable container 12 may have a flavor chamber 80 below a beverage chamber 16, along with a built-in straw hole passage 32, which extends along the side of the reusable container 12. (FIGS. 25-26a) Although the container 12 in FIGS. 25-26a is tapered, the container 12 may have any shape. Alternatively, the built-in flavor chamber 80 may encircle the beverage chamber 16. (FIG. 26) The beverage chamber 16 may include an open top, as illustrated, or a lid 10 with a beverage spout 20 may be engaged to the reusable container 12, thereby forming a ceiling for the beverage chamber 16. The beverage chamber 16 preferably includes at least one beverage chamber wall 18 that forms one of the flavor chamber walls. The bottom of the flavor chamber 80 may include a screw-on bottom 150 which may also form the bottom of the reusable container 12. The screw-on bottom 150 preferably includes threads 130 that mate with grooves on the reusable container 12. Alternative affixation methods for coupling of the bottom 150 to the container 12 may be used at the discretion of an individual.

In an alternative reusable embodiment as depicted in FIGS. 25 and 26, the screw-in bottom 150 may be removed from the empty reusable container 12 to expose the flavor chamber 80. The reusable container 12 may then be rotated approximately 180°, so that the beverage chamber 16 is disposed downwardly and the flavor chamber 80 is disposed upwardly. The flavor chamber 80 may then be filled with a desired volume or amount of flavor whereupon the screw-in bottom 150 may be engaged to the threads 130 to close and/or seal the flavor chamber 80. In this embodiment, the upper straw hole 30a may include a plug, valve, and/or seal 144, to prevent leakage or loss of flavor during addition of the flavor within the flavor chamber 80. Upon closure of the screw-in bottom 150 relative to the container 12, the container 12 may be rotated approximately 180°, to position the beverage chamber 16 upwardly for receipt of the primary liquid beverage. The plug within the upper straw hole 30a may then be withdrawn, or the valve 144 in the upper straw hole 30a may be traversed, to provide access to the flavor through the straw hole passage 32.

In an alternative embodiment where the container as depicted in FIGS. 25-26a is disposable, a foil 142 or other type of seal may be disposed in sealing and covering relationship over the upper straw hole 30a. In the alternative disposable embodiment of FIGS. 25-26a, the use of a threaded or screw-in bottom 150 is not required. In this disposable alternative embodiment, the bottom or base may be integral to the exterior beverage chamber walls 18, and may include a fill hole 146 which may be sealed or plugged following the addition of flavor within the flavor chamber 80. In the disposable embodiment of FIGS. 26-26a, the container 12 before use is preferably rotated to an upside down configuration to provide access to the fill hole/fill hole passage 146. A plug within the fill hole 146 may be removed or a valve 144 within the fill hole 146 may be traversed/opened by a hollow element such as a straw passage. A foil seal 142 preferably blocks both the upper straw hole 30a and the flavor vent 70. Once a desired volume or amount of flavor is added to flavor chamber 80 the plug may be reinserted into the fill hole 146 or the straw withdrawn from the valve 144. The container 12 may then be returned to an upright position where a primary beverage may be added to the beverage chamber 16. The foil seals 142 covering the upper straw hole 30a and flavor vent 70 may then be removed for consumption of the flavor and primary liquid by an individual.

In at least one embodiment, the flavor chamber 80, as depicted in FIGS. 25-26a, is not required to be completely filled with flavor and may be partially filled prior to use with a primary beverage as disposed within the beverage chamber 16.

In all of the embodiments as described herein in reference to FIGS. 1-26a, the sip hole 50 may include one or more of a variety of valves, which may be opened to provide access through, or closed to obstruct passage of flavor and/or primary beverage through the sip hole 50.

In one or more embodiments as described herein related to FIGS. 1-26a, the flavor chamber 80 may include flavor vents 70 to facilitate the withdrawal of flavor from the flavor chamber 80.

The flavor vents 70 may have a removable or replaceable plug or silicone valve 144. The flavor chamber 80 may also include a fill hole 146 through which the consumer adds flavoring to the flavor chamber 80. The fill hole 146 may be disposed through the flavor chamber floor 84. The fill hole 146 may receive a plug or valve 144 which is removed or traversed in order to add flavoring to the flavor chamber 80. A plug or cover may be reinserted to close the fill hole 146 as desired.

In general the reusable embodiments as described relative to FIGS. 20-26a, preferably include valves 144. In addition, the disposable embodiments as described herein relative to FIGS. 20-26a preferably include foil 142 sealing members.

The reusable and/or disposable containers 12 as related to FIGS. 20-26a disclosed herein, may each include any combination of reusable or disposable lids 10, containers 12, and/or flavor chambers 80. An individual is not required to exclusively utilize reusable elements within a reusable container embodiment 12. For example, in a reusable embodiment, an individual may elect to utilize a reusable container 12, and a reusable bottom 150 in conjunction with a disposable flavor chamber 80. Alternatively, an individual may elect to utilize a disposable container 12, disposable lid 10, reusable bottom 150 and reusable flavor chamber 80. Any combination of reusable and disposable elements for the reusable/disposable container 12, having lid 10 and flavor chamber 80, may be used by an individual herein.

The flavor chamber 80 as disclosed herein related to FIGS. 20-26a may alternatively include more than one, or multiple flavor chambers as earlier described relative to FIGS. 1-19. The multiple independent flavor compartments forming the composite flavor chamber 80 may be provided in a disposable and/or reusable form. In the multiple independent flavor compartment embodiments, any desired number of fill hole passages 146 may be provided along with any desired number of lower straw holes 30b for coupling with valves 144 or foil 142 as disposed within apertures 136.

The above disclosure is intended to be illustrative and not exhaustive. This description will suggest many variations and alternatives to one of ordinary skill in this art. The various elements shown in the individual figures and described above may be combined or modified for combination as desired. All these alternatives and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims where the term “comprising” means “including, but not limited to”.

Further, the particular features presented in the dependent claims can be combined with each other in other manners within the scope of the invention such that the invention should be recognized as also specifically directed to other embodiments having any other possible combination of the features of the dependent claims. For instance, for purposes of claim publication, any dependent claim which follows should be taken as alternatively written in a multiple dependent form from all prior claims which possess all antecedents referenced in such dependent claim if such multiple dependent format is an accepted format within the jurisdiction (e.g. each claim depending directly from claim I should be alternatively taken as depending from all previous claims). In jurisdictions where multiple dependent claim formats are restricted, the following dependent claims should each be also taken as alternatively written in each singly dependent claim format which creates a dependency from a prior antecedent-possessing claim other than the specific claim listed in such dependent claim below.

This completes the description of the invention. Those skilled in the art may recognize other equivalents to the specific embodiment described herein which equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the claims attached hereto.

Claims

1. A flavor retention device comprising:

a container having at least one flavor chamber, at least on beverage chamber, and at least one sip hole in communication with said at least one flavor chamber, said at least one flavor chamber comprising at least one liquid.

2. The flavor retention device of claim 1, the at least one liquid comprising at least one flavor, said at least one flavor constructed and arranged for passage through said at least one sip hole.

3. The flavor retention device of claim 1, the container further comprising a straw hole.

4. The flavor retention device of claim 3, wherein the straw hole is in communication within the flavor chamber.

5. The flavor retention device of claim 1, the flavor chamber further comprising a flavor vent.

6. The flavor retention device of claim 5, further comprising at least one seal removably engaged to said vent.

7. The flavor retention device of claim 4, the straw hole comprising a valve.

8. The flavor retention device of claim 1, further comprising at least one valve engaged to said at least one sip hole.

9. The flavor retention device of claim 1, wherein the container is a bottle.

10. The flavor retention device of claim 9, wherein said bottle is reusable.

11. The flavor retention device of claim 1, wherein said container is a cup.

12. The flavor retention device of claim 11, wherein said cup is reusable.

13. The flavor retention device of claim 1, said at least one flavor chamber comprising at least one valve engaged to said at least one flavor chamber.

14. The flavor retention device of claim 13, wherein the at least one valve is disposed proximate to a side of said at least one flavor chamber.

15. A container comprising:

a beverage chamber, said beverage chamber constructed and arranged to hold a primary beverage;

a flavor chamber, at least a portion of said flavor chamber being disposed below said beverage chamber; and

a straw hole passage, said straw hole passage being in communication with said flavor chamber.

16. The container of claim 15, further comprising a bottom, said bottom being removably engaged to said container.

17. The container of claim 15, wherein said flavor chamber is constructed and arranged to be removably engaged to said container.

18. The container of claim 17, the straw hole passage comprising a valve.