Tableware for Specialized Persons

Abstract

The present invention is directed to a set of tableware for use by persons with neuro-cognitive impairment, compromised or under developed motor skills, or any persons with difficulties eating foods and imbibing drinks. As described herein, the tableware set includes at least one container and at least one spoon. The container has a smooth sidewall portion, a vertically slanted basin portion to define an asymmetrical cavity enclosed by the container. A flat base is provided on the underside of the container. A spoon is provided to match the curvature of the container along or more axes. To assist disabled persons with using the spoon, the side edges of the spoon matches the vertical curvature of the sidewall container, and the tip of the spoon matches the horizontal curvature. The handle of the spoon is designed along an arc to match the alignment of a closed hand when holding a spoon.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/984,847 filed Apr. 27, 2014 to Yao, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to any reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure, as it appears in the United States Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

This disclosure relates generally to tableware for impaired persons. More particularly, the present invention relates to a tableware set for patients with neuro-cognitive disorders, such as patients with Alzheimer's disease.

2. Description of Related Arts

Of substantial interest for caregivers of impaired and/or disabled persons is finding tools or solutions that will help to increase the number of disabled persons a caregiver can attend to either simultaneously and/or over a period of time, and the efficiency and/or efficacy with which a caregiver is able to provide assistance. This is because improved tools can reduce the duration of direct personal care provided to a disabled person, and allow disabled persons to perform daily functions with greater independence. For neuro-cognitively disabled persons or persons with neuro-degenerative disorders—such as those with Alzheimer's disease—cognitive abilities can be impaired, sometimes substantially, which may cause issues with performing even basic physiological needs, such as during food consumption or performing the manual act of eating.

Unfortunately, conventional tableware sets (e.g., dishware and utensils) and even traditional solutions directed to assisting impaired persons are typically insufficient to substantially reduce the time necessary for a caretaker to care for a disabled person. One example of a conventional technique involves attaching one or more non-skid pad bases to dishes (e.g., plates, cups, and bowls). However, while potentially effective in mitigating slippage and reducing spills, these solutions do little to promote independent eating, or to solve various other inconveniences that often require caregivers to devote significant time and attention during feeding of a disabled person. Another example of a prior art technique is to imbue the dishes with a particular color (e.g., red) to increase the appetite of the disabled persons—patients with Alzheimer's disease specifically in this case. This is because the patients often gradually lose appetite during a meal and thus require consistent monitoring to ensure appropriate food intake. However, the effectiveness of this prior art technique can be significantly attenuated when used with foods that are naturally red, even common foods such as tomatoes, strawberries, watermelon, and red peppers.

Moreover, a person with Alzheimer's disease may have additional problems using conventional kitchen utensils. For example, certain foods may be difficult for some patients with Alzheimer's disease to eat with a spoon, or a pattern or decoration on the plate may resemble food particles and confuse the user. Unsuitable kitchen utensils may cause disabled users to injure themselves or others on accident. In particular, the design of conventional spoons can present difficulties in scooping foodstuffs from a bowl, and can result in accidentally spilled food. Likewise, conventionally designed cups (or other drinking containers) can be easily knocked over by a user, causing spills; and present choking hazards to impaired or disabled persons. A straw is a well-known solution for drinking (sipping) liquids from a cup. However, straws are not secured in place in conventional cup designs, which can present further difficulties for users.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

To overcome the deficiencies of the prior art, what is needed, and has not heretofore been developed, is a set of tableware for disabled persons that provides assistance to caregivers by minimizing difficulties in eating and increasing food intake for disabled persons. According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the foregoing and other objects and advantages are attained by a tableware set for a disabled person, comprising: a foodstuff container, a spoon, and a drinking container.

According to one or more aspects of the claimed subject matter, a tableware set is described herein that includes a foodstuff container for use by impaired or disabled persons, the foodstuff container comprising: (a) a generally flat base; (b) a generally smooth sidewall portion surrounding a perimeter of the generally flat base and extending vertically with respect to the generally flat base; (c) a vertically slanted basin portion; and (d) a circular lip portion attached to the sidewall portion. According to a further embodiment of the claimed subject matter, the foodstuff container may also comprise (e) a circular rim portion attached to the lip portion, wherein the rim extends outwardly from the lip portion. In one or more embodiments, the tableware set includes at least one foodstuff container without the circular rim portion, and at least one foodstuff container that includes the circular rim portion.

According to one or more aspects of the claimed subject matter, the tableware set described herein includes an enhanced spoon for use by impaired or disabled persons, the enhanced spoon comprising: (a) a curved handle that approximates the natural curvature of a human hand when the handle is gripped; (b) a rounded bowl portion attached to the handle; and (c) a tip disposed along an opposite edge of the bowl portion with respect to the handle. According to a further embodiment of the claimed subject matter, the enhanced spoon may also be equipped with a deeper bowl portion, for use in spooning larger scoops, and/or liquids or semi-solid foods, such as soups, stews, gelatins, etc. In one or more embodiments, the tableware set includes at least one enhanced spoon with a deeper bowl portion for liquids/semi-solids, and at least one enhanced spoon with a regular bowl portion for spooning solid foods.

According to one or more aspects of the claimed subject matter, the tableware set described herein includes a drinking container for use by impaired or disabled persons, the drinking container comprising: (a) a generally smooth sidewall portion; (b) a rounded basin portion, wherein the basin portion includes a vertically slanted surface; (c) a flat-surfaced base upon which the rounded basin portion is disposed, the flat-surfaced base having a wider circumference than the smooth sidewall portion; and (d) a circular lip portion attached to the sidewall portion. According to a further embodiment of the claimed subject matter, the drinking container may also comprise (e) a handle that is attached to the sidewall portion, the handle comprising a curved structure that forms an aperture with the sidewall portion and the flat-surfaced base, the handle comprising a top portion affixed to the sidewall portion and a basin portion affixed to the flat-surfaced base. In one or more embodiments, the handle is configured such that when the drinking container is placed on a flat surface, a portion of the handle is in contact with the surface. According to one or more further embodiments of the claimed subject matter, the handle is shaped with a groove along the underside of the top portion of the handle such that the drinking container can be supported by the handle when one or more fingers of a person's hand is/are extended perpendicularly through the groove of the handle. In one or more embodiments, the tableware set includes at least one drinking container without the handle, and at least one drinking container that includes the handle.

According to one or more aspects of the claimed subject matter, the tableware set described herein includes a serving tray for use by impaired or disabled persons and/or by the caretaker of impaired or disabled persons, the serving tray comprising: (a) a generally flat base portion; (b) one or more handles disposed along one or more sides of the generally flat portion; (c) a plurality of apertures disposed along a front edge of the generally flat portion; and (d) a wedge-flanged ring disposed in each of the plurality of apertures, the wedge-flanged ring being operable to secure the bottom hem of a bib or apron. According to a further embodiment of the claimed subject matter, the serving tray may also include (e) one or more ridges in the generally flat base portion which separate the generally flat base portion into a plurality of distinct compartments. In one or more embodiments, compartments of the serving tray match the general size and shape of the base of at least one of the foodstuff container and/or the drinking container.

According to one or more aspects of the claimed subject matter, a process for manufacturing the tableware set described herein is provided. In one or more embodiments, the process for manufacturing the tableware set includes forming one or more containers with vertically slanted basin portions, forming one or more spoons with curvatures matching the curvatures of one or more interior surfaces of the one or more containers, and forming a food service tray for carrying the one or more containers and the one or more spoons, the food service tray including fastening mechanisms for fastening a sheet or structure of fabric or other suitable material to the food service tray during the service of meals, to provide a netting and/or receptacle of sorts to prevent spilled or dropped foods.

These and other features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of structures and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following description and the appended claims with reference to any drawings (either attached hereto or incorporated by reference from the applications referred to herein), all of which form a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts in the various figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. As used in the specification and the claims, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Additional advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the description that follows, and may be realized by means of the instrumentalities and combinations in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention:

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 2 depicts a first side view of a foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 depicts an end view of a foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts a top view of a foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5 depicts a second side view of a foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of a rimmed foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 depicts a first side view of a rimmed foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8 depicts an end view of a rimmed foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 9 depicts a top view of a rimmed foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 10 depicts a second side view of a rimmed foodstuff container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of a rimmed foodstuff container with a handle in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 12 depicts a first side view of a rimmed foodstuff container with a handle in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 13 depicts a second side view of a rimmed foodstuff container with a handle in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 14 depicts a perspective view of a liquid container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 15a depicts a side view of a container lid with a first fastening mechanism in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 15b depicts a side view of a container lid with a second fastening mechanism in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 16a depicts a top view of a container lid in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 16b depicts a top view of a container lid with an aperture for a straw in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 17 depicts a side view of a liquid container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of a liquid container with a handle in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 19 depicts a side view of a liquid container with a handle in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 20a depicts a first perspective view of a tablespoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 20b depicts a first perspective view of a soupspoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 21a depicts a front view of a tablespoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 21b depicts a front view of a soupspoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 22a depicts a side view of a tablespoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 22b depicts a side view of a soupspoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 23a depicts a second perspective view of a tablespoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 23b depicts a second perspective view of a soupspoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 24 depicts a perspective view of a first curvature of a spoon relative to a first curvature of a container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 25 depicts a perspective view of a second curvature of a spoon relative to a second curvature of a container in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 26 depicts a top view of a food tray in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 27 depicts a front view of a food tray in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 28 depicts a side view of a food tray in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 29 depicts a top view of a bib fastened to a food tray in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 30 depicts a tableware set in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 31 depicts a flowchart of a process for manufacturing a tableware set in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The following description is disclosed to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the present invention. Preferred embodiments are provided in the following description only as examples and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The general principles defined in the following description would be applied to other embodiments, alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

A set of tableware is conceived to assist disabled persons for eating in the present invention. Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose of illustration based on what is currently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but, on the contrary, is intended to cover modifications and equivalent arrangements that are within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. For example, it is to be understood that the present invention contemplates that, to the extent possible, one or more features of any embodiment can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment.

According to one or more embodiments, the set of tableware comprises a set of different containers which comprises a plate, a bowl, a cup without a handle, a cup with a handle, two differently sized spoons, and a tray, wherein any of the plate, the bowl, the cups, the spoons, and the tray may be used alone or in combination with each other.

According to an aspect of the tableware conceived to assist disabled persons, a foodstuff container is provided for serving particles of foods. In one or more embodiments, the foodstuff container may comprise, for example any vessel suitable for the serving of food, such as a plate, bowl, dish, or other unit of flatware. FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary container 100. As depicted in FIG. 1, the container 100 includes a contiguous sidewall portion 101 surrounding the perimeter of a basin portion 103—preferably having a circular shape—that defines a volume within the container. As presented in FIG. 1, the sidewall portion 101 vertically extends from the basin portion 103 to provide a surface against which food particles may be scooped (via a utensil) with greater ease, and to prevent particles of food or liquids in the container 100 from accidentally being spilled or scooped improperly out of the container. In one or more embodiments, the sidewall portion 101 has a smooth interior surface, while the exterior surface of the sidewall portion 101 may be smooth, or textured (to improve handling), or a combination of both.

In one or more embodiments, the exterior surface of the sidewall portion 101 is colored with a distinctive color to stimulate user interest in its contents. For example, using a bright or high contrast color such as a bright red or yellow may be used to stimulate hunger in a user, and/or increase user interest in consuming particles of food. According to such embodiments, the exterior surface of the foodstuff container 100 may be colored a solid red (or yellow), or patterned a substantially red (or yellow) combination of colors, and the interior surface of the foodstuff container 100—which includes the interior surface of the sidewall portion 101 and the top surface of the basin portion 103—may be colored a substantially contrasting color, preferably a color not commonly found in foodstuffs. A solid blue, or a pattern of substantially blue color, for example, may be used for the interior surface of the foodstuff container 100.

According to one or more embodiments, the basin portion is vertically slanted such that food particles placed in the container tend to naturally collect (via gravity) at the deeper region defined by the vertical slant. According to one or more further embodiments, one side of the sidewall portion 101 is completely or substantially vertical, while the opposite side of sidewall portion 101 extends along an arc. In one or more embodiments, the side of the sidewall portion 101 proximate to the deeper region is completely or substantially vertical, while the side of the sidewall portion 101 proximate to the shallow region extends along an arc. In one or more embodiments, the container 100 may also be equipped with a tab 105 extending substantially horizontally from the sidewall portion 101. The Tab 105 may be used for example, to provide support when the container 100 is grasped, or insulation from extreme temperatures of any food particles placed within the container 100 when the container 100 is manually grasped and transported with the tab 105. Tab 105 also provides additional separation between appendages and food particles placed in the container 100—e.g., for sanitary purposes. In addition, the tab 105 also provides a visual indication to a server or caregiver as to the orientation of the container 100. For example, the tab 105 may be disposed to coincide with the shallow region of the container 100, and opposite with respect to the deeper region, as defined by the vertical slant. Thus, the tab 105 can also serve as a visual marker for a server or caregiver to determine the proper position of the container 100 with respect to the user.

FIG. 2 depicts a side view of an exemplary container 200. As depicted in FIG. 2, container 200 is equipped with a contiguous sidewall portion 201, a generally flat base 207, a vertically slanted basin portion 203 disposed over the flat base 207 and encircled by the sidewall portion 201, and a tab 205 that extends from the sidewall portion 201. In an embodiment, sidewall portion 201 and tab 205 are similar to sidewall portion 101 and tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1. As depicted in FIG. 2, a volume of space in the interior of the container is defined by an upper surface of the basin portion 203 in combination with the sidewall portion 201. The vertical slant of the basin portion 203 defines a shallow region A and a deep region B within the container 200. As depicted in FIG. 2, the side of the sidewall portion 201 that corresponds to the deeper region B extends vertically straight from the basin portion 203 (e.g., substantially at a right angle with respect to the base 207), while the side of the sidewall portion 201 that corresponds to the shallow region A extends vertically along an arc.

Due to the decline (slant) and the smooth surface of the basin portion 203, particles of food naturally collect and re-collect via the force of gravity at the deep region B within the container, even when initially placed in the shallow region A, and/or as the particles of food in the deep region B are consumed. According to an embodiment, the vertical slant of the basin portion 203 may approximate a linear or substantially linear sloped surface. According to an alternate embodiment, the basin portion 203 may also approximate a concave trajectory. The vertically straight sidewall portion 201 immediately adjacent to the deep region B also provides a larger surface against which food particles can be scooped, and the relatively high sidewall portion 201 helps to prevent spills over the and out of the container 200.

As depicted in FIG. 2, the tab 205 is arranged on the same side as the shallow region A, for positioning purposes. Base 207 may, in one or more embodiments, be constructed from anti-slip material such as rubber to resist and/or reduce movement. In further embodiments, the exterior (downward facing) surface of the base 207 may include additional features (e.g., due to accidental contact). These features may include, for example, ridges, pads, or bumps to substantially resist and/or reduce movement even further.

FIG. 3 depicts an end view of an exemplary container 300. As in FIG. 2, the container 300 depicted in FIG. 3 also includes a contiguous sidewall portion 301, a generally flat base 307, a vertically slanted basin portion 303 disposed over the flat base 307 and encircled by the sidewall portion 301, and a tab 305 that extends from the sidewall portion 301. In an embodiment, the sidewall portion 301, basin portion 303, tab 305, and base 307 of FIG. 3 are similar to like numbered elements sidewall portion 101, tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1, and basin portion 203 and base 207 described above with respect to FIG. 2, respectively. As depicted in FIG. 3, the tab 305 is positioned on the same end or side of the container 300 as the highest point of the slanted basin portion 305, which marks the shallow region A of the container. In other words, the tab 305 is attached to an external surface of the sidewall portion 301 on the same (shallow) end of the container, and the slanted basin portion 305 slopes downwards from the intersection of the slanted basin portion 305 and the interior surface of the sidewall portion 301.

FIG. 4 depicts a top view of an exemplary container 400. The container 400 depicted in FIG. 4 also includes the contiguous sidewall portion 401, a vertically slanted basin portion 403, and a tab 405 that extends from the sidewall portion 401. In an embodiment, the sidewall portion 401, basin portion 403, and tab 405 of FIG. 4 are similar to like numbered elements sidewall portion 101, tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1, and basin portion 203 described above with respect to FIG. 2, respectively. As depicted in FIG. 4, a shallow region A Is provided on one end of the container 400 (e.g., the end on the left side of the container in FIG. 4) and a deep region B is provided on the opposite end of the container 400 (e.g., the end on the right side of the container in FIG. 4). In one or more embodiments, tab 405 is provided on an external surface of the sidewall portion 405, wherein a vertically slanted basin portion (not depicted) is provided over the base 403 from an interior surface of the sidewall portion 401 on the same end of the container 400 as the tab 405. As depicted in FIG. 4, tab 405 may be positioned along the same side of the container 400 as the shallow region defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 403. In alternate embodiments, tab 405 may instead be positioned on the same side of the container 400 as the deeper region B, as defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 403.

FIG. 5 depicts a second side view of an exemplary container 500. Specifically, FIG. 5 depicts a rotated view of the exemplary container 200 of FIG. 2 described above. In an embodiment, the elements of: a contiguous sidewall portion 501, a generally flat base 507; a vertically slanted basin portion 503 disposed over the flat base 503 and encircled by the sidewall portion 501; and a tab 505 that extends from the sidewall portion of FIG. 5 are similar to like numbered elements sidewall portion 101, tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1, and basin portion 203 and base 207 described above with respect to FIG. 2, respectively. As depicted in FIG. 5, tab 505 may be positioned on the same side of the container 500 as the shallow region defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 503. In alternate embodiments, tab 505 may instead be positioned on the same side of the container 500 as the deeper region B, as defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 503.

FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary rimmed foodstuff container 600. The rimmed foodstuff container 600 depicted in FIG. 6 includes a contiguous sidewall portion 601, a vertically slanted basin portion 603, and a tab 605 that extends (perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly) from the rimmed foodstuff container 600. In an embodiment, the sidewall portion 601, basin portion 603, and tab 605 of FIG. 6 are similar to like numbered elements sidewall portion 101, tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1, and basin portion 203 described above with respect to FIG. 2. As presented, FIG. 6 also includes a rim or lip 609 provided around the top of the sidewall portion 601. In an embodiment, instead of extending from the sidewall portion 601, tab 605 is formed as a further extension of the lip 609. In one or more embodiments, the lip 609 extends outwardly from the center of the rimmed foodstuff container 600 at a slight upwards angle such that food particles and liquid droplets which fall or drip onto the lip 609 tend to slide down the lip 609 towards the volume enclosed by the rimmed foodstuff container 600, where it is collected.

FIG. 7 depicts a side view of an exemplary rimmed foodstuff container 700. As depicted in FIG. 7, rimmed foodstuff container 700 is equipped with a contiguous sidewall portion 701, a generally flat base 707, a vertically slanted basin portion 703 disposed over the flat base 707 and encircled by the sidewall portion 701, a lip 709 provided around the top of the sidewall portion, and a tab 705 that extends from a portion of the lip 709. In an embodiment, sidewall portion 701 and tab 705 are similar to sidewall portion 101 and tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1. Basin portion 703 and base 707 are similar to basin portion 203 and base portion 205 described above with respect to FIG. 2, and lip 709 is similar to lip 609 described above with respect to FIG. 6. As depicted in FIG. 7, tab 705 may be positioned along the same side of the rimmed foodstuff container 700 as the shallow region defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 703. In alternate embodiments, tab 705 may instead be positioned on the same side of the rimmed foodstuff container 700 as the deeper region B, as defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 703.

FIG. 8 depicts an end view of an exemplary rimmed foodstuff container 800. As in FIG. 7, the rimmed foodstuff container 800 depicted in FIG. 8 also includes a contiguous sidewall portion 801, a generally flat base 807, a vertically slanted basin portion 803 disposed over the flat base 807 and encircled by the sidewall portion 801, a lip 809 surrounding the top of the sidewall portion 801 and extending outwardly from the center of the rimmed foodstuff container 800 and a tab 805 that extends from a portion of the lip 809. In an embodiment, sidewall portion 801 and tab 805 are similar to sidewall portion 101 and tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1. Basin portion 803 and base 807 are similar to basin portion 203 and base portion 205 described above with respect to FIG. 2, and lip 809 is similar to lip 609 described above with respect to FIG. 6. As depicted in FIG. 8, the tab 805 is positioned on the same end or side of the rimmed foodstuff container 800 as the highest point of the slanted basin portion 805, which marks the shallow region A of the container.

FIG. 9 depicts a top view of an exemplary rimmed foodstuff container 900. The rimmed foodstuff container 900 depicted in FIG. 9 also includes a contiguous sidewall portion 901, a generally flat base 907, a vertically slanted basin portion 903 disposed over the flat base 907 and encircled by the sidewall portion 901, a lip 909 surrounding the top of the sidewall portion 909 and extending outwardly from the center of the rimmed foodstuff container 900 and a tab 905 that extends from a portion of the lip 909. In an embodiment, sidewall portion 901 and tab 905 are similar to sidewall portion 101 and tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1. Basin portion 903 and base 907 are similar to basin portion 203 and base portion 205 described above with respect to FIG. 2, and lip 909 is similar to lip 609 described above with respect to FIG. 6. As depicted in FIG. 9, a shallow region A Is provided on one end of the container 900 (e.g., the end on the left side of the container in FIG. 9) and a deep region B Is provided on the opposite end of the container 900 (e.g., the end on the right side of the container in FIG. 9. In one or more embodiments, tab 905 is provided on an external surface of the sidewall portion 905, wherein a vertically slanted basin portion (not depicted) is provided over the base 903 from an interior surface of the sidewall portion 901 on the same end of the container 900 as the tab 905.

FIG. 10 depicts a second side view of an exemplary container 1000. Specifically, FIG. 10 depicts a rotated view of the exemplary container 700 of FIG. 7 described above. In an embodiment, the elements of: a contiguous sidewall portion 1001, a generally flat base 1007; a vertically slanted basin portion 1003 disposed over the flat base 1003 and encircled by the sidewall portion 1001; and a tab 1005 that extends from the sidewall portion of FIG. 10 are similar to like numbered elements sidewall portion 101, tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1, and basin portion 203 and base 207 described above with respect to FIG. 2, respectively. As depicted in FIG. 10, tab 1005 may be positioned on the same side of the container 1000 as the shallow region defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 1003. In alternate embodiments, tab 1005 may instead be positioned on the same side of the container 1000 as the deeper region B, as defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 1003.

FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of a rimmed foodstuff container 1100 with a handle 1111 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. The rimmed foodstuff container 1100 depicted in FIG. 11 includes the contiguous sidewall portion 1101, vertically slanted basin portion 1103, a lip 1109 that surrounds the top of the sidewall portion 1101, and a tab 1105 that extends (perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly) from the rimmed foodstuff container 1100, as described in several embodiments above. In an embodiment, the sidewall portion 1101, basin portion 1103, tab 1105, and lip 1109 of FIG. 11 are similar to like numbered elements sidewall portion 101, tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1, basin portion 203 described above with respect to FIG. 2, and lip 609 described above with respect to FIG. 6. As presented, FIG. 11 also includes a handle 1111 provided by extending (downwards) a panel along the outer edge of the lip 1111, and opposite to the sidewall portion 1101 positioned along the inner edge of the lip 1111. In an embodiment, the downwards-extending panel forms a groove between the panel and sidewall portion 1101 that may be suitable for gripping (as a handle). The rimmed foodstuff container 1100 may thus be transported securely without substantially contacting the sides of the rimmed foodstuff container 1100, in the event the contents of the rimmed foodstuff container 1100 are extremely hot or cold or otherwise uncomfortable to the touch.

FIG. 12 depicts a first side view of a rimmed foodstuff container 1200 with a handle 1211 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 12, rimmed foodstuff container 1200 is equipped with a contiguous sidewall portion 1201, a generally flat base 1207, a vertically slanted basin portion 1203 disposed over the flat base 1207 and encircled by the sidewall portion 1201, a lip 1209 provided around the top of the sidewall portion, a tab 1205 that extends from a portion of the lip 1209, and a handle 1211 provided on an outer edge of the lip 1209 that is opposite with respect to the sidewall portion. In an embodiment, sidewall portion 1207 and tab 1205 are similar to sidewall portion 101 and tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1. Basin portion 1203 and base 1207 are similar to basin portion 203 and base portion 205 described above with respect to FIG. 2, lip 709 is similar to lip 609 described above with respect to FIG. 6, and handle 1211 is similar to handles 1111 described above with respect to FIG. 11. As depicted in FIG. 12, tab 1205 may be positioned along the same side of the rimmed foodstuff container 1200 as the shallow region defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 1203. In alternate embodiments, tab 1205 may instead be positioned on the same side of the rimmed foodstuff container 1200 as the deeper region B, as defined by the vertically slanted basin portion 1203.

FIG. 13 depicts a second side view of a rimmed foodstuff container 1300 with a handle 1311 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As in FIG. 12, the rimmed foodstuff container 1300 depicted in FIG. 13 also includes a contiguous sidewall portion 1301, a generally flat base 1307, a vertically slanted basin portion 1303 disposed over the flat base 1307 and encircled by the sidewall portion 1301, a lip 1309 surrounding the top of the sidewall portion 1301 and extending outwardly from the center of the rimmed foodstuff container, a tab 1305 that extends from a portion of the lip 1309, and a handle 1311 provided on an outer edge of the lip 1309 that is opposite with respect to the sidewall portion. In an embodiment, sidewall portion 1301 and tab 1305 are similar to sidewall portion 101 and tab 105 described above with respect to FIG. 1. Basin portion 1303 and base 1307 are similar to basin portion 203 and base portion 205 described above with respect to FIG. 2, lip 1309 is similar to lip 609 described above with respect to FIG. 6, and handle 1311 is similar to handles 1111 described above with respect to FIG. 11. As depicted in FIG. 13, the tab 1305 is positioned on the same end or side of the rimmed foodstuff container 1300 as the highest point of the slanted basin portion 1305, which marks the shallow region A of the container.

According to another of the tableware conceived to assist disabled persons, a liquid container is provided for serving fluids and liquids in form. In one or more embodiments, the liquid container may comprise, for example, a cup, pitcher, mug, glass, or other vessel suitable for containing and serving liquids in form. FIG. 14 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary liquid container 1400. As depicted in FIG. 14, liquid container 1400 includes a contiguous, vertical sidewall portion 1401 provided over a base portion 1403. A basin portion disposed over the base portion 1403 is encircled by the interior surface of the vertical sidewall portion 1401 and, in combination with the vertical sidewall portion 1401 defines a volume within the liquid container 1400. The liquid container is open at the top of the vertical sidewall portion 1401 to allow liquids or other materials to be placed in the volume enclosed by the vertical sidewall portion 1401 and the basin portion. A removable lid 1405 may be fastened to the liquid container 1400 over the opening as a cover, to prevent materials from falling into the liquid container 1400 through the opening and potentially contaminate the contents stored therein, and to prevent the contents of the liquid container 1400 from spilling or leaking out in the event the liquid container 1400 is tipped on its side or flipped over. In one or more embodiments, a tab 1409 is also included for position identification and handling purposes as described herein with respect to tab 105 of FIG. 1.

As presented in FIG. 14, the vertical sidewall portion 1401 extends vertically the base portion 1403. In one or more embodiments, to allow stacking of multiple liquid containers 1400, the perimeter of the vertical sidewall portion 1401 increases outwardly from the base 1403, such that the perimeter of the vertical sidewall portion 1401 is narrower at the intersection of the sidewall portion 1401 and the base 1403 than at the opening at the top of the vertical sidewall portion 1401 (and by extension, at the intersection of the sidewall portion 1401 and the lid 1405. In one or more embodiments, the vertical sidewall portion 1401 has a smooth interior surface. The exterior surface of the vertical sidewall portion 1401 may be smooth, or textured (to improve handling), or a combination of both.

In still further embodiments, the exterior surface of the vertical sidewall portion 1401 includes features for improved gripping and/or handling in lieu of, or in addition to, a textured surface. These features may include, for example, ridges or finger-shaped grooves, variably raised surfaces (e.g., “pebbling”) or any other mechanism to increase surface-area contact when the liquid container 1400 is grasped by the vertical side wall portion 1401. According to one or more embodiments, the exterior surface may be colored with a distinctive color to stimulate user interest in its contents. For example, the color yellow may be used to stimulate thirst in a user, or increase interest in imbibing liquid contents. According to such embodiments, the exterior surface of the foodstuff container may be colored a generally high contrast color such as a bright solid red or yellow, or patterned a substantially yellow combination of colors. The interior surface of the foodstuff container—which includes the interior surface of the vertical sidewall portion 1401 and the top surface of the basin portion—may be colored a substantially contrasting color, preferably a color not commonly found in foodstuffs. A solid blue, or a pattern of substantially blue color, for example, may be used for the interior surface of the foodstuff container.

In one or more embodiments, when lid 1405 is fastened to the liquid container 1400, access to the (preferably liquid) contents in the liquid container 1400 may be provided through an aperture 1407 in the lid 1405. In an exemplary scenario, a straw or other tube-like object may be inserted through the aperture 1407 into the volume enclosed in the liquid container 1400. Aperture 1407 may be equipped with features to substantially prevent movement of a straw inserted through the aperture 1407. As depicted in FIG. 14, these features may be implemented as, for example, wedge-shaped flaps that substantially prevent a lateral movement of a straw (or other object) inserted through the aperture 1407, while not substantially resisting movement along the vertical (e.g., extension/retraction axis. While described within the context of wedge-shaped flaps, it is to be understood that alternate embodiments of the present claimed subject matter are well suited to include other or additional means for securing a lateral position of a straw or other object inserted through the aperture 1407.

In one or more embodiments, base portion 1403 may include be formed of a rubber or rubber like material that prevents and/or resists slipping. In further embodiments, base portion 1403 is configured to prevent tipping by extending beyond the perimeter enclosed by the vertical sidewall portion 1401. As depicted in FIG. 14, base portion 1405 may be implemented as a rubber ring provided (e.g., via molding) around and under the vertical sidewall portion 1401 of the liquid container 1400 to prevent the cup from tipping over and provide stability.

FIG. 15a depicts a side view of a container lid 1500a with a first fastening mechanism, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In one or more embodiments, container lid 1500a includes a flat cover 1501a configured to cover an opening in a container, such as liquid container 1400 described above with respect to FIG. 14. In one or more embodiments, container lid 1500a is a removable cover that physically attaches (via a fastening mechanism) to the vertical sidewall portion (e.g., vertical sidewall portion 1401 of FIG. 14) of a container. As depicted in FIG. 15a, the fastening mechanism may comprise a latch 1503 configured to secure the lid against a portion of the vertical sidewall portion of a container.

FIG. 15b depicts a side view of a container lid 1500b with a second fastening mechanism, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment, container lid 1500b is similar to container lid 1500b, and is likewise equipped with a flat cover 1501b configured to cover an opening in a container. However, where the fastening mechanism in FIG. 15a comprises a latch 1503a, the fastening mechanism in FIG. 15b includes a series of ridges that allow the lid to physically engage (via a twisting motion) a complementary series of ridges provided at the top of an interior surface of a vertical sidewall portion of the container. Other embodiments are well suited to other, or additional fastening mechanisms.

FIG. 16a depicts a top view of a container lid 1600a in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 16a, container lid 1600a includes a substantially flat cover 1601a, which, when container lid 1600a is fitted over a corresponding container (e.g., liquid container 1400 of FIG. 14), covers or substantially covers an opening in the liquid container. In one or more embodiments, container lid 1600 also includes a tab 1603a. In one or more embodiments, tab 1603a may be used to disengage container lid 1600 from a container by acting as a lever using the edge of a sidewall portion of the container as a fulcrum, for example. In one or more embodiments, tab 1603a replaces the tab (e.g., tab 1409) attached to the sidewall portion of a container. In still further embodiments, each of the sidewall portions of a container and the container lid (e.g., container lid 1600a) may include a separate tab.

FIG. 16b depicts a top view of a container lid 1600b with an aperture 1605b, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 16b, container lid 1600b also includes a substantially flat cover 1601b, which, when container lid 1600b is fitted over a corresponding container (e.g., liquid container 1400 of FIG. 14), covers or substantially covers an opening in the liquid container. Access to content contained in liquid container 1400 may be achieved through aperture 1605b, similar to aperture 1407 of FIG. 14 described above. As depicted in FIG. 16, tab 1603b is oriented along the perimeter of container lid 1600b at a position that most approximates the position of the aperture 1605b. As such, tab 1603b may serve as a visual indicator of the relative position of aperture 1605b.

FIG. 17 depicts a side view of a liquid container 1700 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 17, liquid container 1700 may be equipped with a contiguous vertical sidewall portion 1701, a generally flat base 1703, a vertically slanted basin portion 1707 disposed over the flat base 1703 and encircled by the vertical sidewall portion 1701, and a removable lid 1705 that can be fastened over the top of the liquid container 1700 as a cover. In an embodiment, vertical sidewall portion 1701, base 1703 is similar to sidewall portion 1401 and base 1403 described above with respect to FIG. 14, with lid 1705 being similar to any one of lids 1500a, 1500b, 1600a, and 1600b described above with respect to FIGS. 15a, 15b, and 16. The vertically slanted basin portion 1707 defines a deeper region B within liquid container 1700 such that liquids or fluids contained in the liquid container 1700 naturally pools at the deeper region B, as well as a shallow region A from which the liquids or fluids flow from. The lid 1705 is configured to be turned (even while fastened to the container 1700) via a twisting motion to be aligned with the deeper region B, such that an aperture in the lid 1705 that allows a straw to be inserted through the aperture to access the contents in the deeper region, and to secure the straw directly over the deeper region B. In such a manner, lateral movement of the straw is prevented by securing means in the aperture, and furthermore, is unnecessary due to the pooling of the contents in the liquid container.

FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of a liquid container 1800 with a handle 1809 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 18, liquid container 1800 includes a contiguous, vertical sidewall portion 1801 provided over a base portion 1803, and a lid 1805. An aperture 1807 in the lid 1805 provides access to contents in the liquid container 1800 when the lid 1805 is fastened over the opening of the liquid container 1800. A basin portion disposed over the base portion 1803 is encircled by the interior surface of the vertical sidewall portion 1801 and, in combination with the vertical sidewall portion 1801 defines a volume within the liquid container 1800. In an embodiment, the sidewall portion 1801, base portion 1803, lid 1805, and aperture 1807 are similar to the like numbered sidewall portion 1401, base portion 1403, container lid 1405, and aperture 1407 described above with respect to FIG. 14.

According to one or more embodiments, the liquid container 1800 may include a handle 1809. Handle 1809 may be gripped and used to transport the liquid container 1800 when the contents of liquid container 1800 are uncomfortable to touch (e.g., extreme hot or cold temperatures). As depicted in FIG. 18, handle 1809 is implemented as a hollow, curved bar attached at the top of the handle to a region of the vertical sidewall portion 1801. In one or more embodiments, the bottom of the handle 1809 extends downwards to be in contact or near contact with a surface (e.g., table, counter, or floor) upon which the liquid container 1800 is placed. In one or more further embodiments, the bottom of the handle 1809 may also be attached to the liquid container 1800 along a portion of the base 1803. As presented in FIG. 18, the bottom of the handle 1809 includes a flattened portion parallel along its bottom surface with the bottom surface of the base 1803, such that when the container 1800 is placed on a flat surface (such as a table or counter, etc.), the handle 1809 may be in direct contact with the surface along the bottom facing surface of the flattened portion of the handle 1809. The increased bottom-facing surface area provided by the flatted portion of the handle 1809 provides further stabilization to the base 1803, and acts as a measure against accidental tipping.

As depicted, the handle 1809 also includes a groove 1811 along an underside of the handle 1809. In one or more embodiments, the groove may be the approximate width of a finger of a human hand. According to such embodiments, the liquid container 1800 may be supported by perpendicularly inserting a hand through the hollow portion of the handle 1809 such that the groove 1811 rests over the top-most finger of the hand. The groove allows the liquid container 1800 to be transported without grasping either the curved portion of the handle 1809, or the vertical sidewall portion of the container 1800. This provides users with arthritis—or other conditions or injuries that make gripping a handle difficult—a comfortable and secure method of handling and transporting the liquid container 1800.

FIG. 19 depicts a side view of a liquid container 1900 with a handle 1909 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 19, liquid container 1900 may be equipped with a contiguous vertical sidewall portion 1901, a generally flat base 1903, a vertically slanted basin portion 1907 disposed over the flat base 1903 and encircled by the vertical sidewall portion 1901, and a removable lid 1905 that can be fastened over the top of the liquid container 1900 as a cover. In an embodiment, vertical sidewall portion 1901, base 1903, lid 1905, and vertically slanted basin portion 1907 are similar to like-numbered features sidewall portion 1401, base 1403, and lid 1405, described above with respect to FIG. 14, and vertically slanted basin portion 1707 described above with respect to FIG. 17, respectively. As depicted, FIG. 19 also includes a handle 1909. In an embodiment, the handle 1909 is similar to the handle 1809 described above with respect to FIG. 18, and may be used for stabilization and support.

According to still another aspect of the tableware conceived to assist disabled persons, an eating utensil is provided for consuming particles of solid food and liquid foods. In one or more embodiments, the eating utensil may comprise, for example, a spoon (such as a tea spoon, tablespoon, soupspoon), spoon-like utensil (such as a ladle, a scoop), or hybrid spoon (e.g., a “spork”). FIG. 20a depicts a first perspective view of a tablespoon 2000a in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 20a, tablespoon 2000a includes a shallow bowl 2003a attached at the end of a handle 2001a. In one or more embodiments, the bowl 2003a forms a tip 2005a on an opposite end of the bowl 2003a from the handle 2001a. The depth of bowl 2003a of the tablespoon 2000a is represented by lower case d. In one or more embodiments, a guard structure 2007a is provided at the intersection of the bowl 2003a and the handle 2001a to prevent or mitigate food particles or liquids from contact with the handle 2001 a when the tablespoon 2000a is used. In one or more embodiments, the handle 2001a may include a rubber or thermoplastic elastomer coat (e.g., disposed via molding) or consist entirely of a rubber, mix of rubber polymers, or rubber-like substance. In one or more further embodiments, the handle 2001a of the tablespoon 2000a extends along an arc that approximates or substantially approximates the natural curved alignment of the underside of the metacarpal phalangeal joints in a human hand making a fist or gripping an object (e.g., tablespoon 2000a).

FIG. 20b depicts a first perspective view of a soupspoon 2000b in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 20b, soupspoon 2000b includes a shallow bowl 2003b attached at the end of a handle 2001b, with a tip 2005b on an opposite end of the bowl 2005b from the handle 2001b. In an embodiment, the bowl 2003b, handle 2001b, and tip 2005b are similar to like numbered elements handle 2001a, bowl 2003a, and tip 2005a described above with respect to FIG. 20a. The depth of the bowl 2003b of the soupspoon 2000b is represented by upper case D, and in an embodiment, the depth of the bowl 2003b of the soupspoon 2000b is greater than the depth of the bowl 2003a of the tablespoon 2000a (e.g., D>d). Accordingly, soupspoon 2000b may be used preferentially when consuming or imbibing liquid foods (e.g., soups, stews), or many food particles of lesser size.

FIG. 21a depicts a front view of a tablespoon 2100a in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention, and includes a handle 2101a, bowl 2103a, tip 2105a, and guard 2107a. In an embodiment, handle 2101a, bowl 2103a, tip 2105a, and guard 2107a are similar to respective like numbered elements handle 2001a, bowl 2003a, tip 2005a, and guard 2007a described above with respect to FIG. 20a.

FIG. 21b depicts a front view of a soupspoon 2100b in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment, handle 2101b, bowl 2103b, tip 2105b, and guard 2107b are similar to respective like numbered elements handle 2001a, bowl 2003a, tip 2005a, and guard 2007a described above with respect to FIG. 20a.

FIG. 22a depicts a side view of a tablespoon 2200a in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment, handle 2201a, bowl 2203a, tip 2205a, and guard 2207a are similar to respective like numbered elements handle 2001a, bowl 2003a, tip 2005a, and guard 2007a described above with respect to FIG. 20a.

FIG. 22b depicts a side view of a soupspoon 2200b in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment, handle 2201b, bowl 2203b, tip 2205b, and guard 2207b are similar to respective like numbered elements handle 2001a, bowl 2003a, tip 2005a, and guard 2007a described above with respect to FIG. 20a.

FIG. 23a depicts a second perspective view of a tablespoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment, handle 2301a, bowl 2303a, tip 2305a, and guard 2307a are similar to respective like numbered elements handle 2001a, bowl 2003a, tip 2005a, and guard 2007a described above with respect to FIG. 20a.

FIG. 23b depicts a second perspective view of a soupspoon in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment, handle 2301b, bowl 2303b, tip 2305b, and guard 2307b are similar to respective like numbered elements handle 2001a, bowl 2003a, tip 2005a, and guard 2007a described above with respect to FIG. 20a.

According to yet another aspect of the claimed subject matter, the curvature of the tip of a rounded eating utensil (e.g., any of table or soupspoons 2000a, 2000b, 2100a, 2100b, 2200a, 2200b, 2300a and 2300b) is configured to specifically match the vertical curvature of the sidewall portion of a corresponding container (e.g., foodstuff container 100, 600). FIG. 24 depicts a perspective view of a first curvature of a spoon 2401 relative to a first curvature of a container 2403 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 24, the spoon 2401 includes a handle 2407, bowl 2409, and tip 2411. Handle 2407 may be held (e.g., by hand 2409) and used to scoop particles of food or liquid foods stored in container 2403. Container 2403 is depicted with a sidewall 2405 having a rounded perimeter. In one or more embodiments, the surface of the sidewall 2405 along the vertical axis is also curved, and a curvature of the tip 2411 of the spoon 2401 along the horizontal edge of the tip matches (e.g., at point X) the vertical curvature of the sidewall 2405 such that, when pressed (e.g., manually by hand 2409) against the interior surface of the sidewall 2405 of container 2403, an arc along the tip 2411 of the spoon 2401 lies flush against the interior surface of the sidewall 2405 with negligible or substantially negligible space in between. The matching curvature of the tip 2411 of the spoon 2401 and the vertical curvature of the container 2403 allows more effective scooping of materials in the container 2403. In particular, for containers with asymmetrically deeper ends where food particles or liquid foods can collect—such as those described herein—the matching curvature of the sidewall portion can act as a guide or track for a spoon during a scooping or scraping motion.

In one or more embodiments, the curvature along a side edge of a rounded eating utensil (as described herein with respect to FIGS. 20a-23b) is configured to specifically match the curvature of the sidewall portion of a corresponding container (e.g., foodstuff container 100, 600) along a horizontal plane. FIG. 25 depicts a perspective view of a second curvature of a spoon 2501 relative to a second curvature of a container 2503 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. In an embodiment, spoon 2501 also includes a handle 2507, bowl 2509, and tip 2511. Handle 2507 may be held (e.g., in hand 2509) and used to scoop particles of food or liquid foods stored in the container 2503. As depicted in FIG. 25, container 2503 includes a sidewall 2505 with a rounded perimeter. In one or more embodiments, the curvature of the rounded perimeter matches (e.g., at point Y) the curvature of a horizontal edge of the bowl 2509 along one or more horizontal planes. That is, when the horizontal edge of the bowl 2509 is pressed against the interior surface of the sidewall 2505 of container 2503, an arc along a horizontal edge of the bowl 2509 is capable of lying flush against the interior surface of the sidewall with negligible or substantially negligible space interposed between. The matching curvature of the horizontal edge of the spoon 2501 also improves the efficiency and effectiveness of single scooping motions performed in concert with the matching container 2503. According to an embodiment, the vertical curvature of the sidewall (e.g., sidewall 2505) curvature where the basin portion of the container (e.g., container 2503) meets the sidewall 2505 both substantially match the curvature of a spoon tip (e.g., 2511) and the curvature of a horizontal edge of the bowl 2509 such that both the spoon tip 2511 and horizontal edge of the bowl 2509 may be in unbroken contact with the container along both the sidewall 2505 and the basin portion of the container 2503 simultaneously.

According to an additional aspect of the claimed subject matter, a specialized food tray is provided for carrying various containers and eating utensils, and serving foodstuffs and liquids contained in the containers. FIG. 26 depicts a top view of a food service tray 2600 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 26, the food service tray 2600 includes a flat surface 2601. Flat surface 2601 may be used, for example, to support one or more containers during transport and food/drink service. Preferably, food service tray 2600 may be used to transport containers with anti-slipping features (such as the containers described above with respect to FIGS. 1-19). As depicted in FIG. 26, food service tray 2600 includes one or more handles 2603 with which food service tray 2600 may be grasped. As depicted, two handles 2603 are provided on opposite ends of the food service tray 2600. In one or more embodiments, the ends of the food service tray may be curved or slanted upwards, with handles 2603 provided within the curved portions of the food service tray 2600. In one or more embodiments, the interior of the handles may be equipped from molded rubber or similar materials.

According to one or more embodiments, food service tray 2600 also includes one or more fastening mechanisms that allows a piece of fabric—such as a bib, apron, table cloth, napkin, etc.—to be fastened to the food service tray 2600 (e.g., over a seated user's legs). Spilled foods and liquids, crumbs, and other undesirable objects may be prevented from landing upon, and potentially soiling clothing or carpet by the interposed, fastened fabric. As depicted in FIG. 26, food service tray 2600 includes a front panel that extends the flat surface 2601 towards the user when the food service tray 2600 is placed in front of the user. Fastening mechanisms 2605 are implemented as one or more apertures in the front panel, and equipped with a ring of opposable wedge-shaped flaps. In an embodiment, the flaps may consist of rubber, rubber polymers, and/or thermoplastic elastomers (or like materials) and be used to fasten a piece of fabric to the service tray 2600. While FIG. 26 depicts a fastening mechanism using a ring of wedge-shaped flaps, embodiments of the claimed subject matter are well suited to other fastening mechanisms that include, but are not limited to: one or more clips; one or more clasps; one or more clamps; one or more rings; one or more ties; and/or one or more apertures with alternately-shaped flaps.

FIG. 27 depicts a front view of a food service tray 2700 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 27, food service tray 2700 includes a flat surface 2701, curled portion (with embedded handles 2703). In an embodiment, the flat surface 2701 and handles 2703 are similar to the flat surface 2601 and handles 2603 described above with respect to FIG. 26. As shown in FIG. 27, food service tray 2700 also includes anti slipping features (e.g., ridges 2705) disposed on an underside of the flat surface 2701. In an embodiment, ridges 2705 may be made from a material that resists or prevents slipping and sliding, such as a rubber, rubber polymer, and/or thermoplastic elastomer. According to an alternate embodiment, instead of one or more ridges, a significant portion (or even the entirety) of the underside of the flat surface 2701 may include a layer of anti-slip material.

FIG. 28 depicts a side view of a food tray 2801 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 28, food service tray 2800 includes a flat surface 2801, and handles 2803. In an embodiment, the flat surface 2801 and handles 2803 are similar to the flat surface 2601 and handles 2603 described above with respect to FIG. 26. Fastening mechanisms (e.g., apertures with a ring of opposable flaps) may be disposed in a front panel 2805 that extends from the flat surface 2801.

FIG. 29 depicts a top view of a bib 2907 fastened to a food service tray 2901 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 29, food service tray 2900 includes a flat surface 2901, and handles 2903 embedded in end portions of the food service tray 2901. As described above, the end portions may be curled or slanted upwards. In an embodiment, the flat surface 2901 and handles 2903 are similar to the flat surface 2601 and handles 2603 described above with respect to FIG. 26. As depicted in FIG. 29, the ends of one or more bibs 2907 or other pieces of fabric may be fastened to one or more of the fastening mechanisms 2905. In an embodiment, the other end of the bib 2907 may be fastened in some fashion to the user, such that the bib 2907 is suitably spread over the legs of a user seated before the food service tray 2900. Spilled foods and/or drinks may be caught and/or absorbed by the bib(s) 2907. As depicted in FIG. 29, fastening mechanisms 2905 that include an aperture with a ring of opposable, wedge-shaped flaps may be fastened by inserting one or more edges of the bib 2907 between alternating, adjacent flaps.

FIG. 30 depicts a tableware set 3000 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present invention. As depicted in FIG. 30, tableware set 3000 may include one or more containers equipped with features for assisting cognitively-impaired or other persons with difficulties eating and/or drinking independently. As presented in FIG. 30, the one or more containers include two vessels for containing foodstuffs and/or liquid foods. For example, tableware set 3000 may include a first bowl 3001 with a substantially vertical sidewall portion and a second bowl 3003 equipped with an inclined lip portion. In an embodiment, the first bowl 3001 may be used to serve solid foods, wherein the substantially vertical sidewall portions assist users by providing a sheer or substantially sheer surface against which food particles may be scooped (using a spoon, for example). In an embodiment, the second bowl 3003 may be used to serve liquid foods (such as soups, stews, etc.), wherein the lip portion assist users by providing an inclined shelf that can catch the portion(s) of the liquid foods or smaller particles of solid foods that spill or dribble when the particular food is consumed. In an embodiment, the first bowl 3001 and the second bowl 3003 are similar to, and may include additional features of the foodstuff containers described above with respect to FIGS. 1-10.

As presented in FIG. 30, the one or more containers of tableware set 3000 can also include a cup 3005 with a stabilizing base 3009 and a mug 3007 with a grooved 3013 handle 3011 that extends to the bottom of the mug 3007. In an embodiment, the cup 3005 may be used to serve cold or room temperature liquid drinks, wherein the cup 3005 has a stabilizing base 3009 with a bottom surface having a greater circumference than the perimeter of the volume enclosed by the interior of the cup 3005. In one or more embodiments, the stabilizing base 3009 may be formed of an anti-skidding material, such as rubber or thermoplastic elastomer, which may, but not necessarily be a different material from the sidewall portion of the cup 3005. In one or more embodiments, the sidewall portion of the cup 3005 may be formed from any number of suitable materials including, but not limited to, plastic, ceramics, and metals and metal alloys. In an embodiment, the mug 3007 may be used to serve liquids at temperatures that may be uncomfortable to hold for extended periods of time (e.g., hot or extremely cold drinks) As depicted, mug 3007 includes a handle 3011 that extends to the bottom of the mug 3007 such that a portion of the handle 3011 is parallel or nearly parallel with the bottom surface of the mug 3007 to provide additional stability to resist spills resulting from the mug 3007 being knocked over. In an embodiment, mug 3007 also includes a groove 3013 through which the mug 3007 may be lifted, when the handle 3011 is inconvenient or uncomfortable to use (e.g., for users with arthritis). In an embodiment, the cup 3005 and the mug 3007 are similar to, and may include additional features of the drinking containers described above with respect to FIGS. 14-19.

As depicted in FIG. 30, tableware set 3000 also includes a tablespoon 3015 and a soupspoon 3017. In an embodiment, both the tablespoon 3015 and soupspoon 3017 are equipped with curved tips that specifically match the vertical curvature of one or both of the first bowl 3001 and the second bowl 3003, and curved edges that specifically match the horizontal curvature of one or both of the first bowl 3001 and the second bowl 3003. In an embodiment, both the tablespoon 3015 and soupspoon 3017 are equipped with a curved handle, wherein the curvature of the handle approximates the alignment of an arc along a human hand when gripped. In an embodiment, the tablespoon 3015 and the soupspoon 3017 are similar to, and may include additional features of the tablespoons and soupspoons described above with respect to FIGS. 20-29.

As depicted in FIG. 30, tableware set 3000 may also include a food service tray 3019. As presented, food service tray 3019 includes a flat surface that may be used to carry one or more of the containers (3001, 3003, 3005, and 3007) and/or spoons (3015, 3017) described above, or as a surface from which foods and liquids contained in the containers (3001, 3003, 3005, and 3007) may be served. In an embodiment, the food service tray 3019 may include one or more curved or inclined portions 3023 on opposite sides of the food service tray 3019. Handles 3021 may be integrated in the curved or inclined portions 3023 to allow a user (such as a caregiver) to carry the food service tray 3019. Food service tray 3019 may also include one or more fastening mechanisms that are operable to fasten a piece (such as a sheet) of fabric (such as a bib, apron, napkin, tarp, or table cloth) to the food service tray 3019 to provide an area to intercept spilled foods and drinks, preventing soiling and stains for clothing or surfaces (such as carpets) underneath the fastened material.

FIG. 31 depicts an exemplary flowchart 3100 for manufacturing a tableware set, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the claimed subject matter. Steps 3101-3105 describe exemplary steps of the flowchart 3100 in accordance with the various embodiments herein described.

At step 3101, a container is formed. In an embodiment, the container may be formed by providing a substantially vertical sidewall portion above a basin portion to define a cavity; and configuring the basin portion to have a vertical slant such that one side of the basin portion has a greater height above the base than an opposite side of the basin portion, wherein the vertical slant defines a deep region of the cavity and a shallow region of the cavity, such that objects of food placed in the cavity collect towards the deep region of the cavity. In one or more other embodiments, forming the container may also include providing a base portion along a bottom surface of the basin portion and vertical sidewall portion, the base portion including one or more anti-slip features. The anti-slip features may, according to varying embodiments be structural (e.g., a wider base), material (e.g., rubber), and/or a combination of both (e.g., rubber ridges).

In one or more embodiments, the container may be formed to include a tab along a section of the sidewall portion to indicate an orientation of the deep region of the cavity. In one or more further embodiments, the first container may also be formed to include a circular lip portion surrounding the perimeter of the sidewall portion, the circular lip portion extending outwardly from the sidewall portion at an upwards angle, for example. In one or more embodiments, the container may be formed as a foodstuff container, such as a bowl, with a wider but relatively shorter cavity.

In alternate embodiments, the process depicted in step 3101 of FIG. 31 may also be used to form a container suitable for use as a drinking vessel with a proportionally smaller diameter and a higher sidewall portion, such as a cup or mug. According to such embodiments, the container may be formed at step 3101 to include a removable lid configured to be detachably attached to the container along a top surface of the sidewall portion via an attachment mechanism.

In one or more embodiments, a drinking vessel formed at step 3101 of FIG. 31 may be formed to also include a handle affixed to the container along at least a section of an exterior surface of the sidewall portion, wherein a stabilizing portion of the handle is affixed to the container along a section of a base of the container such that a bottom-facing surface of the stabilizing portion of the handle is parallel to a bottom-facing surface of the base. In one or more embodiments, the handle is formed such that an interior surface of the handle comprises a groove having substantially equivalent width to a width of a human finger.

Step 3101 may be performed repeatedly to form multiples or variants of the container, such as a container as described above, a container with a surrounding lip portion, a drinking vessel, and/or a drinking vessel with a handle.

At step 3103, a spoon is formed that matches one or more containers formed at step 3101. In one or more embodiments, a spoon is formed at step 3103 by extending a first end of a bowl portion from a handle; forming a tip along an opposite end of the bowl portion with respect to the handle; and configuring the bowl portion such that a curvature of a side edge of the bowl portion substantially matches with a curvature of the sidewall portion of the container formed in step 3101 along a horizontal axis.

In one or more embodiments, the spoon may be formed at step 3101 such that the handle of the spoon approximates the shape of an arc of the alignment of the inside of a closed human hand. In one or more embodiments the spoon may be formed at step 3101 such that a curvature of the tip of the spoon substantially also matches with a curvature of the basin portion of the container formed at step 3101 along a vertical axis. Step 3103 may be performed repeatedly to form multiples or variants of the spoon, including, but not limited to, a tablespoon as described with respect to step 3103 or a soupspoon with a deeper bowl portion.

At step 3105, a food tray is formed. The food tray may, in one or more embodiments, be configured to carry one or more containers formed in step 3101 and one or more spoons formed in step 3103. In an embodiment, formation of the food tray may be performed by configuring the food tray to have a flat surface to support the one or more containers formed in step 3101, forming a plurality of handles on opposite ends of the flat surface; and forming a plurality of fastening mechanisms disposed along at least one edge of the flat surface, the plurality of fastening mechanisms being operable to fasten a piece of fabric or other material to the tray.

The tableware set of the present invention as described herein assists neuro-cognitively impaired people or people with compromised and/or under-developed motor skills to consume foods and imbibe drinks with greater independence, thereby helping to maintain a user's dignity, preventing or limiting spills and accidents during meals, and also helping to alleviate the burden of caregivers during food service for the persons receiving care.

One skilled in the art will understand that the embodiment of the present invention as shown in the drawings and described above is exemplary only and not intended to be limiting. It will thus be seen that the objects of the present invention have been fully and effectively accomplished. The embodiments have been shown and described for the purposes of illustrating the functional and structural principles of the present invention and is subject to change without departure from such principles. Therefore, this invention includes all modifications encompassed within the spirit and scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A tableware set, comprising:

one or more containers, each of which comprising:

a substantially flat base;

a basin portion disposed over the base; and

a substantially vertical sidewall portion comprising a substantially smooth interior surface, the sidewall portion surrounding a perimeter of the basin portion and extending vertically above the basin portion,

wherein an upper surface of the basin portion is vertically slanted such that a first side of the basin portion has a greater height above the base than a second side of the basin portion, the first side being on an opposite side of the container from the second side.

2. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, wherein the container further comprises a tab portion disposed along a section of the sidewall portion, the tab portion extending substantially horizontally from the sidewall portion.

3. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, wherein the container further comprises a circular lip portion surrounding a perimeter of the sidewall portion, the circular lip portion extending outwardly from the sidewall portion at an upwards angle.

4. The tableware set as recited in claim 3, wherein the container further comprises a plurality of handles attached to the circular rim portion, the plurality of handles extending in a downward facing direction from the circular lip portion.

5. The tableware set of as recited in claim 1, further comprising a spoon, wherein the spoon comprises:

a bowl portion;

a handle extending from a first end of the bowl portion;

a tip disposed along an opposite end of the bowl portion with respect to the handle.

6. The tableware set as recited in claim 5, wherein a curvature of the tip of the spoon substantially matches with a curvature of the basin portion of the container along a vertical axis.

7. The tableware set as recited in claim 5, wherein a curvature of a side edge of the bowl portion substantially matches with a curvature of the sidewall portion of the container along a horizontal axis.

8. The tableware set as recited in claim 5, wherein the handle extends from the first end of the bowl along a curvature that corresponds to an alignment of a human hand when the spoon is gripped.

9. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, wherein the sidewall portion of the container comprises at least one of:

an exterior surface that is substantially red in color; and

an exterior surface that is substantially yellow in color.

10. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, wherein the sidewall portion comprises:

a first side of the sidewall portion corresponding to the first side of the basin portion; and

a second side of the sidewall portion corresponding to the second side of the basin portion,

wherein the first side of the sidewall portion extends vertically above the basin portion along a substantially straight line,

further wherein the second side of the sidewall portion extends along an arc above the basin portion.

11. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, further comprising a removable lid configured to be detachably attached to the container along a top surface of the sidewall portion via an attachment mechanism.

12. The tableware set as recited in claim 11, further comprising a first helical ridge disposed along an upper portion of the interior surface of the sidewall portion, and wherein the attachment mechanism comprises a second helical ridge disposed along a surface of the attachment mechanism, the second helical ridge being configured to be fastened to the first helical ridge via a turning motion when in direct contact with the first helical ridge.

13. The tableware set as recited in claim 11, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises a latch configured to detachably fasten the removable lid to the container.

14. The tableware set as recited in claim 11, wherein the removable lid comprises an aperture comprising a plurality of flaps, the flaps being configured for securing a position of a straw extending through the aperture.

15. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, wherein the container comprises a handle, the handle being affixed to the container along at least a section of an exterior surface of the sidewall portion.

16. The tableware set as recited in claim 15, wherein the handle further comprises a stabilizing portion affixed to the container along a section of the base such that a bottom-facing surface of the stabilizing portion of the handle is parallel to a bottom-facing surface of the base.

17. The tableware set as recited in claim 15, wherein an interior surface of the handle comprises a groove having substantially equivalent width to a width of a human finger.

18. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, wherein an exterior surface of the sidewall portion comprises at least one anti-slip structure selected from the group consisting of:

a texture along the exterior surface of the sidewall portion;

a plurality of grooves along the exterior surface of the sidewall portion; and

a plurality of ridges along the exterior surface of the sidewall portion.

19. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, further comprising a tray, the tray comprising:

a flat surface;

a plurality of handles on opposite ends of the flat surface; and

a plurality of fastening mechanisms disposed along at least one edge of the flat surface, the fastening mechanisms being operable for detachably fastening a piece of fabric to the tray.

20. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, wherein each of the fastening mechanisms is one of an aperture with a plurality of opposable flaps, a clip, a clasp, a clamp, a ring, and a tie.

21. The tableware set as recited in claim 1, wherein the base has a greater width than a perimeter enclosed by the sidewall portion.

22. A foodstuff container, comprising:

a substantially flat base;

a basin portion disposed above the base; and

a substantially vertical sidewall portion surrounding a perimeter of the basin portion and extending vertically above the basin portion to define a cavity, the basin portion having a vertical slant such that one side of the basin portion has a greater height above the base than an opposite side of the basin portion, the vertical slant defining a deep region of the cavity and a shallow region of the cavity;

wherein the sidewall portion comprises a substantially smooth interior surface,

wherein the vertical slant is configured such that objects of food placed in the cavity collect towards the deep region of the cavity.

23. The foodstuff container as recited in claim 22, further comprising a spoon, the spoon comprising:

a bowl portion;

a handle extending from a first end of the bowl portion;

a tip disposed along an opposite end of the bowl portion with respect to the handle,

wherein the handle extends from the first end of the bowl portion along an arc.

24. A liquid container, comprising:

a substantially flat base;

a basin portion disposed above the base;

a substantially vertical sidewall portion surrounding the perimeter of the basin portion and extending vertically with respect to the basin portion to define a cavity, the basin portion having a vertical slant such that one side of the basin portion has a greater height above the base than an opposite side of the basin portion, the vertical slant separating a deep region of the cavity and a shallow region of the cavity;

a removable lid configured to be attached to the container along a top surface of the sidewall portion via an attachment mechanism; and

a handle, the handle being affixed to the container along a section of the sidewall portion and having a stabilizing portion affixed to a section of the base extending such that a bottom facing surface of the stabilizing portion is parallel to the base along a bottom facing surface of the base,

wherein the handle comprises a groove having a width roughly equivalent to the width of a human finger.

25. A food tray, comprising:

a flat surface;

a plurality of handles on opposite ends of the flat surface; and

a plurality of fastening mechanisms disposed along at least one edge of the flat surface, the plurality of fastening mechanisms being operable to fasten a bib to the tray.

26. A method of manufacturing a tableware set for assisting disabled person for eating, comprising a step of:

(a) forming a container by the steps of:

(a.1) providing a substantially vertical sidewall portion above a basin portion to define a cavity; and

(a.2) configuring the basin portion to have a vertical slant such that one side of the basin portion has a greater height above the base than an opposite side of the basin portion, wherein the vertical slant defines a deep region of the cavity and a shallow region of the cavity, such that objects of food placed in the cavity collect towards the deep region of the cavity;

27. The method as recited in claim 26, wherein the step (a) further comprises a step of extending a tab along a section of the sidewall portion to indicate an orientation of the deep region of the cavity.

28. The method as recited in claim 26, wherein the step (a) further comprises a step of surrounding a circular lip portion at a perimeter of the sidewall portion, the circular lip portion extending outwardly from the sidewall portion at an upwards angle.

29. The method as recited in claim 26, further comprising a step of forming a removable lid configured to be detachably attached to the container along a top surface of the sidewall portion via an attachment mechanism.

30. The method as recited in claim 26, further comprising a step of forming a handle being affixed to the container along at least a section of an exterior surface of the sidewall portion, wherein a stabilizing portion of the handle is affixed to the container along a section of a base of the container such that a bottom facing surface of the stabilizing portion of the handle is parallel to a bottom facing surface of the base.

31. The method as recited in claim 30, wherein an interior surface of the handle comprises a groove having substantially equivalent width to a width of a human finger.

32. The method as recited in claim 26, further comprising a step (b) of forming a spoon by the steps of:

(b.1) extending a first end of a bowl portion from a handle;

(b.2) forming a tip along an opposite end of the bowl portion with respect to the handle; and

(b.3) configuring the bowl portion such that a curvature of a side edge of the bowl portion substantially matches with a curvature of the sidewall portion of the container along a horizontal axis.

33. The method as recited in claim 32, wherein the step (b.1) further comprises a step of configuring the handle of the spoon in an arc shape.

34. The method as recited in claim 32, wherein the step (b) further comprises a step of configuring the bowl portion such that a curvature of the tip of the spoon substantially matches with a curvature of the basin portion of the container along a vertical axis.

35. The method, as recited in claim 26, further comprising a step of forming a food tray by the steps of:

configuring the food tray to have a flat surface to support the container;

forming a plurality of handles on opposite ends of the flat surface; and

forming a plurality of fastening mechanisms disposed along at least one edge of the flat surface, the plurality of fastening mechanisms being operable to fasten a bib to the tray.