DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONSUMING A PLURALITY OF LIQUIDS AND MOLD APPARATUSES FOR FORMING SUCH DEVICES
Devices, methods, and mold apparatuses for forming devices facilitate consumption of a plurality of liquids by a user, such as a first liquid followed by a second liquid. In some cases, the first liquid is a relatively harsh liquid and the second liquid is a relatively mild liquid.
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/158,667, filed Oct. 12, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,961,018, and titled “DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONSUMING A PLURALITY OF LIQUIDS AND MOLD APPARATUSES FOR FORMING SUCH DEVICES,” which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/175,825, filed Jun. 7, 2016, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,138,022, and titled “DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONSUMING A PLURALITY OF LIQUIDS AND MOLD APPARATUSES FOR FORMING SUCH DEVICES,” the entireties of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELDThe present disclosure relates to devices and methods for facilitating consumption of a first liquid and shortly thereafter a second liquid. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to devices and methods for facilitating consumption of a relatively harsh liquid (for example, a liquid including alcohol) and shortly thereafter a relatively mild liquid (for example, a liquid lacking alcohol).
BACKGROUNDWhile many persons enjoy the psychoactive effect produced by the consumption of alcoholic beverages, and often relate its use to times of relaxation, socialization, and celebration, few truly enjoy the flavor and taste profiles of their shared intoxicating constituent—ethanol. Consequently, and since the advent of distilled beverages, creative minds have developed numerous concoctions and unique methods of consumption to disguise the undesirable flavor and taste of ethyl alcohol.
Distilled beverages are prepared in a number of ways, including neat or straight, straight up, on the rocks, blended or frozen, with a simple mixer, as an ingredient of a cocktail or shooter, with water, with water poured over sugar, or the like. Depending on the type of liquor, mixer, or both, these drinks are also served in various forms of glassware, including pint glasses, goblet glasses, snifter glasses, cocktail glasses, margarita glasses, highball glasses, rocks glasses, Irish coffee glasses, shot glasses, shooter glasses or the like.
In recent years, many alcoholic beverage connoisseurs have adopted a method of drinking distilled beverages that includes consuming a shot of liquor from a shot glass, bottle, or other beverage container followed by a relatively mild beverage, such as a carbonated soft drink, alcoholic beverage, fruit juice, “energy” drink, or the like, from a different beverage container. This relatively mild beverage is typically, and appropriately, referred to as a “chaser.” This method is used to wash out the mouth and soothe the throat.
Recent developments have attempted to mimic this practice via a single-unit drinking device. However, these devices typically only keep the distilled liquor and relatively mild beverage separated prior to tilting the device. That is, upon tilting the device, the compartmented liquids begin to mix prior to entering the user's mouth, which is essentially the same as consuming a poorly mixed drink. In other cases, a shot glass containing liquor is dropped into another partially-filled beverage container prior to consumption, which not only creates a mess, but also requires an additional step in preparing a mixed drink.
SUMMARYThe present disclosure provides various devices and methods for consuming a plurality of liquids and mold apparatuses for forming such devices.
A device for consuming a plurality of liquids according to embodiments of the present disclosure includes: a first liquid chamber adapted to carry a first liquid, the first liquid chamber including an open end adapted for receiving the first liquid in the first liquid chamber and delivering the first liquid from the first liquid chamber; a second liquid chamber coupled to the first liquid chamber, the second liquid chamber including: an inlet adapted for receiving liquids in the second liquid chamber; an outlet adapted for delivering liquids from the second liquid chamber; a first attachment element coupled to the first and second liquid chambers, the first attachment element adapted to detachably couple the device to a first liquid container and facilitate receiving a second liquid carried by the first liquid container in the second liquid chamber via the inlet; and a second attachment element coupled to the first and second liquid chambers, the second attachment element adapted to detachably couple the device to a second liquid container and facilitate receiving a third liquid carried by the second liquid container in the second liquid chamber via the inlet.
The device of paragraph [0008], further including a third attachment element coupled to the first and second liquid chambers, the third attachment element adapted to detachably couple the device to a third liquid container and facilitate receiving a fourth liquid carried by the third liquid container in the second liquid chamber via the inlet.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0009], wherein the first liquid container is a first tab-opened container having a first rim, the first attachment element includes a first shoulder having a first size, and the first shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the first rim of the first tab-opened container; and wherein the second liquid container is a second tab-opened container having a second rim, the second attachment element includes a second shoulder having a second size, the second size being greater than the first size, and the second shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the second rim of the second tab-opened container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0010], wherein the third liquid container is a twist-off capped container including a container outlet and an outer threaded surface at the container outlet, the third attachment element includes an inner threaded surface being adapted to detachably couple to the outer threaded surface of the twist-off capped container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0011], wherein the third liquid container is a pry-off capped container including a container outlet and a lip at the container outlet, the third attachment element includes a third shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the lip of the pry-off capped container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0012], wherein the first liquid container is a first tab-opened container having a first rim, the first attachment element includes a first shoulder having a first size, and the first shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the first rim of the first tab-opened container; wherein the second liquid container is a twist-off capped container including a first container outlet and an outer threaded surface at the first container outlet, the second attachment element includes an inner threaded surface being adapted to detachably couple to the outer threaded surface of the twist-off capped container; and wherein the third liquid container is a pry-off capped container including a second container outlet and a lip at the second container outlet, the third attachment element includes a third shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the lip of the pry-off capped container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0013], wherein the first liquid container is a first tab-opened container having a first rim, the first attachment element includes a first shoulder having a first size, and the first shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the first rim of the first tab-opened container; wherein the second liquid container is a capped container including a container outlet, the second attachment element being adapted to detachably couple to the container outlet; and wherein the third liquid container is a coverless container, the third attachment element includes a tapering outer surface of the device, and the tapering outer surface being adapted to be detachably received by the coverless container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0014], further including a fourth attachment element coupled to the first and second liquid chambers, the fourth attachment element adapted to detachably couple the device to a fourth liquid container and facilitate receiving a fourth liquid carried by the fourth liquid container in the second liquid chamber via the inlet.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0015], wherein the first liquid container is a first tab-opened container having a first rim, the first attachment element includes a first shoulder having a first size, and the first shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the first rim of the first tab-opened container; wherein the second liquid container is a second tab-opened container having a second rim, the second attachment element includes a second shoulder having a second size, the second size being greater than the first size, and the second shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the second rim of the second tab-opened container; wherein the third liquid container is a twist-off capped container including a first container outlet and an outer threaded surface at the first container outlet, the third attachment element includes an inner threaded surface being adapted to detachably couple to the outer threaded surface of the twist-off capped container; and wherein the fourth liquid container is a pry-off capped container including a second container outlet and a lip at the second container outlet, the fourth attachment element includes a third shoulder having a third size, the third size being less than the first size, and the third shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the lip of the pry-off capped container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0016], wherein the first liquid container is a first tab-opened container having a first rim, the first attachment element includes a first shoulder having a first size, and the first shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the first rim of the first tab-opened container; wherein the second liquid container is a second tab-opened container having a second rim, the second attachment element includes a second shoulder having a second size, the second size being greater than the first size, and the second shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the second rim of the second tab-opened container; wherein the third liquid container is a capped container including a container outlet, the third attachment element being adapted to detachably couple to the container outlet; and wherein the fourth liquid container is a coverless container, the fourth attachment element includes a tapering outer surface of the device, and the tapering outer surface being adapted to be detachably received by the coverless container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0017], wherein the first liquid container is a first tab-opened container having a first rim, the first attachment element includes a first shoulder having a first size, and the first shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the first rim of the first tab-opened container; wherein the second liquid container is a twist-off capped container including a first container outlet and an outer threaded surface at the first container outlet, the second attachment element includes an inner threaded surface being adapted to detachably couple to the outer threaded surface of the twist-off capped container; wherein the third liquid container is a pry-off capped container including a second container outlet and a lip at the second container outlet, the third attachment element includes a third shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the lip of the pry-off capped container; and wherein the fourth liquid container is a coverless container, the fourth attachment element includes a tapering outer surface of the device, and the tapering outer surface being adapted to be detachably received by the coverless container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0018], further including a fifth attachment element coupled to the first and second liquid chambers, the fifth attachment element adapted to detachably couple the device to a fifth liquid container and facilitate receiving a fifth liquid carried by the fifth liquid container in the second liquid chamber via the inlet.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0019], wherein the first liquid container is a first tab-opened container having a first rim, the first attachment element includes a first shoulder having a first size, and the first shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the first rim of the first tab-opened container; wherein the second liquid container is a second tab-opened container having a second rim, the second attachment element includes a second shoulder having a second size, the second size being greater than the first size, and the second shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the second rim of the second tab-opened container; wherein the third liquid container is a twist-off capped container including a first container outlet and an outer threaded surface at the first container outlet, the third attachment element includes an inner threaded surface being adapted to detachably couple to the outer threaded surface of the twist-off capped container; wherein the fourth liquid container is a pry-off capped container including a second container outlet and a lip at the second container outlet, the fourth attachment element includes a third shoulder having a third size, the third size being less than the first size, and the third shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the lip of the pry-off capped container; and wherein the fifth liquid container is a coverless container, the fifth attachment element includes a tapering outer surface of the device, and the tapering outer surface being adapted to be detachably received by the coverless container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0020], further including an adapter including the inner threaded surface and the third shoulder, the adapter being detachably coupled to the first shoulder and the second shoulder.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0021], wherein the adapter is reversibly connectable to the first shoulder and the second shoulder in a first position and a second position, in the first position the inner threaded surface being adapted to detachably couple to the outer threaded surface of the twist-off capped container, and in the second position the third shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the lip of the pry-off capped container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0022], wherein in the first position the inner threaded surface is disposed between the third shoulder and the first shoulder, and in the second position the third shoulder is disposed between the inner threaded surface and the first shoulder.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0023], wherein the first liquid container is a first tab-opened container having a first rim, the first attachment element includes a first shoulder having a first size, and the first shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the first rim of the first tab-opened container; and wherein the second liquid container is a second tab-opened container having a second rim, the second attachment element includes a second shoulder having a second size, the second size being greater than the first size, and the second shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the second rim of the second tab-opened container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0024], wherein the first liquid container is a first tab-opened container having a first rim, the first attachment element includes a first shoulder having a first size, and the first shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the first rim of the first tab-opened container, and further including an adapter detachably coupled to the first attachment element and including the second attachment element.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0025], wherein the second liquid container is a twist-off capped container including a first container outlet and an outer threaded surface at the first container outlet, the second attachment element includes an inner threaded surface being adapted to detachably couple to the outer threaded surface of the twist-off capped container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0026], wherein the adapter further includes a third attachment element adapted to detachably couple the device to a third liquid container and facilitate receiving a fourth liquid carried by the third liquid container in the second liquid chamber via the inlet, wherein the third liquid container is a pry-off capped container including a second container outlet and a lip at the second container outlet, and the third attachment element includes a third shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the lip of the pry-off capped container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0027], wherein the adapter is reversibly connectable to the first shoulder in a first position and a second position, in the first position the inner threaded surface being adapted to detachably couple to the outer threaded surface of the twist-off capped container, and in the second position the third shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the lip of the pry-off capped container.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0028], wherein in the first position the inner threaded surface is disposed between the third shoulder and the first shoulder, and in the second position the third shoulder is disposed between the inner threaded surface and the first shoulder.
The device of any of paragraphs [0008]-[0029], wherein the second liquid container is a pry-off capped container including a container outlet and a lip at the container outlet, the second attachment element includes a second shoulder being adapted to detachably couple to the lip of the pry-off capped container.
A device for consuming a plurality of liquids according to embodiments of the present disclosure includes: a brim; a first liquid chamber coupled to the brim and adapted to carry a first liquid, the first liquid chamber including an open end adapted for receiving the first liquid in the first liquid chamber and delivering the first liquid from the first liquid chamber; a outer surface coupled to the brim, the outer surface being adapted to press-fittingly engage an inner surface of a coverless container to detachably secure the device to the coverless container; a lower surface coupled to the outer surface; and a channel extending from the lower surface to the brim, the channel being adapted to deliver therethrough a second liquid carried by the coverless container.
The device of paragraph [0031], wherein the device includes a unitary body defining the brim, the first liquid chamber, the outer surface, the lower surface, and the channel.
The device of any of paragraphs [0031]-[0032], wherein the outer surface tapers inwardly proceeding from the brim to the lower surface.
The device of any of paragraphs [0031]-[0033], wherein the first liquid chamber has a circular cross-sectional shape, the outer surface has a semi-circular cross-sectional shape, and the semi-circular cross-sectional shape is substantially concentrically disposed relative to the circular cross-sectional shape.
The device of any of paragraphs [0031]-[0034], further including a removal element coupled to and extending from the brim, the removal element being adapted to be grasped by a user to facilitate removal of the device from the coverless container.
A method according to embodiments of the present disclosure for consuming a first liquid and a second liquid carried by a liquid container, the liquid container including a liquid container outlet adapted to permit passage of the second liquid therethrough, includes: providing a device having a body, the body including: a first liquid chamber adapted to carry the first liquid; an attachment element coupled to the first liquid chamber and adapted to attach the device to the liquid container proximate the liquid container outlet; a device outlet adapted to permit passage of the second liquid therethrough; coupling the device to the liquid container proximate the liquid container outlet via the attachment element; positioning a first liquid within the first liquid chamber; positioning the device and the liquid container in a first orientation in which the body is positioned so as to inhibit flow of the second liquid through the device outlet; consuming the first liquid from the first liquid chamber while the device and the liquid container are positioned in the first orientation; repositioning the device and the liquid container in a second orientation in which the body is positioned so as to permit flow of the second liquid through the device outlet; and consuming the second liquid from the device outlet while the device and the liquid container are positioned in the second orientation.
The method of paragraph [0036], wherein in the first orientation the device outlet is at a first elevation, in the second orientation the device outlet is at a second elevation, and the second elevation is less than the first elevation.
The method of any of paragraphs [0036]-[0037], wherein the liquid container is a tab-opened container having a rim at the liquid container outlet, the attachment element includes a shoulder, and coupling the device to the liquid container includes detachably engaging the rim and shoulder.
The method of any of paragraphs [0036]-[0038], wherein the liquid container is a twist-off capped container including an outer threaded surface at the liquid container outlet, the attachment element includes an inner threaded surface, and coupling the device to the liquid container includes detachably engaging the outer threaded surface and the inner threaded surface.
The method of any of paragraphs [0036]-[0039], wherein the liquid container is a pry-off capped container including a lip at the liquid container outlet, the attachment element includes a shoulder, and coupling the device to the liquid container includes detachably engaging the lip and the shoulder.
The method of any of paragraphs [0036]-[0040], wherein the liquid container is a coverless container having an inner surface, the attachment element includes a tapering outer surface of the device, and coupling the device to the liquid container includes detachably engaging the outer surface against the inner surface.
The method of any of paragraphs [0036]-[0041], wherein the first liquid has a first alcohol content, the second liquid has a second alcohol content, and the second alcohol content is less than the first alcohol content.
The method of any of paragraphs [0036]-[0042], wherein the first liquid includes alcohol and the second liquid lacks alcohol.
A mold apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure for forming a liquid consumption device includes: a die including a die chamber, the die chamber being adapted to receive an uncured material and permit the uncured material to cure therein and thereby form the liquid consumption device; a liquid chamber-forming feature disposed within the die chamber and adapted to form a liquid chamber in the liquid consumption device when the uncured material cures in the die chamber; and a liquid channel-forming feature disposed within the die chamber and adapted to form a liquid channel in an outer surface of the liquid consumption device when the uncured material cures in the die chamber.
The mold apparatus of paragraph [0044], wherein the liquid channel-forming feature monolithically couples to the die within the die chamber.
The mold apparatus of any of paragraphs [0044]-[0045], wherein the die is a first die, and further including a second die being movable relative to the first die, the second die including the liquid chamber-forming feature.
The mold apparatus of any of paragraphs [0044]-[0046], wherein the second die further includes a base, and the liquid chamber-forming feature monolithically couples to the base.
The mold apparatus of any of paragraphs [0044]-[0047], wherein the die includes a plurality of die chambers, each of the die chambers being adapted to receive an associated uncured material and permit the associated uncured material to cure therein and thereby form an associated liquid consumption device, and further including: a plurality of liquid chamber-forming features, each of the liquid chamber-forming features disposed within one of the die chambers and adapted to form a liquid chamber in the associated liquid consumption device when the associated uncured material cures in the die chamber; and a plurality of liquid channel-forming features, each of the liquid channel-forming features disposed within one of the die chambers and adapted to form a liquid channel in an outer surface of the associated liquid consumption device when the associated uncured material cures in the die chamber.
The mold apparatus of any of paragraphs [0044]-[0048], wherein each of the liquid channel-forming features monolithically couples to the die within one of the die chambers.
The mold apparatus of any of paragraphs [0044]-[0049], wherein the die is a first die, and further including a second die being movable relative to the first die, the second die including the liquid chamber-forming features.
The mold apparatus of any of paragraphs [0044]-[0050], wherein the second die further includes a base, and the liquid chamber-forming features monolithically couple to the base.
A mold apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure for forming a liquid consumption device includes: a base adapted to engage a rim of a coverless container while the coverless container carries an uncured material, the base being adapted to permit the uncured material to cure in the coverless container and thereby form the liquid consumption device; a liquid chamber-forming feature carried by the base and adapted to form a liquid chamber in the liquid consumption device when the uncured material cures in the coverless container; and a liquid channel-forming feature carried by the base and adapted to form a liquid channel in an outer surface of the liquid consumption device when the uncured material cures in the coverless container.
The mold apparatus of paragraph [0052], wherein the liquid chamber-forming feature monolithically couples to the base.
The mold apparatus of any of paragraphs [0052]-[0053], wherein the liquid channel-forming feature monolithically couples to the base.
The mold apparatus of any of paragraphs [0052]-[0054], wherein the base is a first base, and further including: a second base adapted to engage a foot of the coverless container; and a plurality of arms detachably coupling the first base to the second base such that the first base and the second base are adapted to securely carry the coverless container therebetween.
While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
It should be understood that the drawings are intended to facilitate understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are not necessarily to scale.
DETAILED DESCRIPTIONDevices and methods according to embodiments of the disclosure facilitate consumption of a plurality of liquids, such as a first liquid followed by a second liquid. The first liquid may be a relatively harsh liquid and the second liquid may be a relatively mild liquid. Examples of relatively harsh liquids include distilled beverages, flavored distilled spirits, other liquids including alcohol, wheatgrass, liquid supplements, liquid vitamins, liquid medication, espresso, or the like. Examples of relatively mild liquids include beer, soft drinks, juices, “energy” drinks, coffee, tea, or the like. In some embodiments, a relatively harsh liquid has a relatively high alcohol content and a relatively mild liquid has relatively low alcohol content or lacks alcohol. In some embodiments, a relatively harsh liquid has a relatively dominant taste profile and a relatively mild liquid has a less dominant taste profile. As used herein, the term “taste profile” refers to the sensation of taste, which includes sweetness, sourness, saltiness, bitterness, and umami. In some embodiments, a relatively harsh liquid has a less desirable flavor profile and a relatively mild liquid has a more desirable flavor profile. As used herein, the term “flavor profile” refers to the sensory impression obtained via taste and smell. In some embodiments, a relatively harsh liquid has a higher concentration of dissolved solids and a relatively mild liquid has a lower concentration of dissolved solids.
Devices and methods according to embodiments of the disclosure may be used together with one or more types of liquid containers. Examples of such containers include coverless containers, twist-off capped containers, pry-off capped containers, and tab-opened containers. As used herein, the term “coverless container” refers to a container that lacks a structure that is monolithically coupled to the container's sidewall(s) and overlies the container's liquid chamber, thereby defining an opening that permits flow therethrough. Examples of coverless containers include glassware (such as beer steins, pint glasses, pilsner glasses, pony glasses, yard glasses, or the like), stemware (such as chalices, champagne flutes, cocktail glasses, hurricane glasses, margarita glasses, sherry glasses, snifters, wine glasses, or the like), tumblers (such as Collins glasses, highball glasses, lowball glasses, table glasses, whiskey glasses or the like) and other drinkware (such as beakers, cups, mugs, jars, repurposed laboratory glassware, or the like). As used herein, the term “twist-off capped container” refers to a container that includes a cover or “cap” that is detached from the container by rotating the cover about an axis that is perpendicular to an opening obscured by the cover, thereby permitting flow through the opening. Twist-off capped containers typically take the form of bottles. As used herein, the term “pry-off capped container” refers to a container that includes a cover or “cap” that is detached from the container by pivoting the cover about an axis that is parallel to an opening obscured by the cover, thereby permitting flow through the opening. Examples of pry-off capped containers include containers having crown corks, bottle clasps, bottle closers, easy pull bottle caps, pull-off bottle caps, flip-tops, cork stoppers, glass stoppers, rubber stoppers, or the like. As used herein, the term “tab-opened container” refers to a container that includes a lever or “tab” that is pivoted about an axis that is parallel to an opening to pivot a cover obscuring the opening into the container's chamber, thereby permitting flow through the opening. Tab-opened containers typically take the form of cans including pull-tabs, stay-on-tabs, wide mouths openings, sustainable beverage ends, press buttons, full aperture ends, or the like.
As used herein, the term “cure” refers to processes by which liquids change to solids. Such processes include, for example, freezing a liquid to form a solid, permitting a liquid with dissolved gelatin to set and form a gelatinous solid, heating a batter to set and form a cake, or the like.
Turning now to the figures,
The body 102 defines a brim 104 that illustratively includes a curved shape (see
The brim 104 partially extends about and is coupled to a first liquid chamber 108. The first liquid chamber 108 is adapted to carry a first liquid, which may be, for example, any of the relatively harsh liquids described herein. The first liquid chamber 108 includes an open end 110 that facilitates (1) receiving the first liquid in the first liquid chamber 108 (for example, filling the first liquid chamber 108 with the first liquid), and (2) delivering the first liquid from the first liquid chamber 108 (for example, facilitating pouring of the first liquid from the first liquid chamber 108 and consumption of the first liquid by a device user). Illustratively, the first liquid chamber 108 may be concentrically disposed relative to the brim 104. Stated another way, the first liquid chamber 108 and the brim 104 may share a common longitudinal axis 106.
Illustratively, the first liquid chamber 108 tapers inwardly proceeding away from the open end 110. The first liquid chamber 108 may taper at various angles relative to the longitudinal axis 106. In some embodiments and as described in further detail below in connection with
The first liquid chamber 108 may have any of various appropriate capacities or volumes. In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 108 has the capacity to receive a single or double shot, according to the independent standards set forth by any of various countries, in order to maintain consistency, simplify preparation, and/or reduce over-pouring. For example, in the United States, the standard volume of a single shot is 1.5 fl. oz. (44.4 ml) and, in Australia, the standard volume of a single shot is 1.0 fl. oz. (29.6 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 108 has a volume of substantially 1.5 fl. oz. (44.4 ml) (as used herein with regard to volumes, the term “substantially” is understood to refer to the nominal value within ±10 percent). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 108 has a volume of substantially 1.0 fl. oz. (29.6 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 108 has a volume of substantially 3.0 fl. oz. (88.7 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 108 has the capacity to receive a less-than-standard shot volume. Such embodiments may appeal to resellers interested in increasing their per-sale profit margins while maintaining the appearance that customers are receiving a standard drink volume.
The body 102 also defines an outer surface 112 that is coupled to the brim 104 opposite the first liquid chamber 108. As described in further detail below, the outer surface 112 acts as an attachment element for coupling the device 100 to a coverless container. Specifically, the outer surface 112 is adapted to press-fittingly engage an inner surface of a coverless container to detachably secure the device 100 to the coverless container. Accordingly, the outer surface 112 may have a shape that is the partial inverse of the shape of the inner surface of the coverless container. Illustratively, the outer surface 112 tapers inwardly proceeding away from the brim 104 to facilitate use with “tapering-down” coverless containers (for example, 16 fl. oz. (473 ml) pint glasses). In other embodiments and as described in further detail below, the outer surface may taper outwardly proceeding away from the brim (to facilitate use with “tapering-up” coverless containers, such as “wine” glasses), or the outer surface may have a semi-cylindrical shape (that is, a non-tapering shape, to facilitate use with non-tapering coverless containers, such as “coffee” mugs). Illustratively, the outer surface 112 may be substantially concentrically disposed relative to the first liquid chamber 108. That is, the outer surface 112 may have a semi-circular cross-sectional shape, the first liquid chamber 108 may have a circular cross-sectional shape, and the semi-circular cross-sectional shape may be substantially concentrically disposed relative to the circular cross-sectional shape (as used herein with regard to concentricity, the term “substantially” is understood to mean concentric within 0.25 inches). Stated another way, the outer surface 112 and the first liquid chamber 108 may share the longitudinal axis 106. Alternatively, and in other embodiments, the first liquid chamber 108 may be offset from the shared longitudinal axis 106, with the outer edge of the first liquid chamber 108 disposed proximate the outer edge of the brim 104. Stated another way, the outer diameter of the first liquid chamber 108 may alternatively be disposed tangentially about the outer diameter of the brim 104 and proximate the outer surface 112. Such an alternative structure could provide a closer proximity of the first liquid chamber 108 to a user's mouth (when positioned for consuming a first liquid 210) as well as provide a greater surface area for a larger channel 116 to be disposed thereon (allowing for greater ease of access to a second liquid 202 when positioned for use thereinafter).
In some embodiments, the device 100 advantageously provides a relatively secure connection to a coverless container compared to a typical cover or lid. This secure connection is facilitated by the relatively large surface area for engaging the inner surface of the coverless container compared to a typical cover or lid.
The body 102 further defines a lower surface 114 that is coupled to the outer surface 112 opposite the brim 104. Illustratively, the lower surface 114 has a flat shape to facilitate freely standing the device 100 with the open end 110 of the first liquid chamber 108 facing in an upward direction. In other embodiments, the lower surface has a non-flat shape, such as a curved shape or a domed shape.
The body 102 further defines a channel 116 that interrupts the outer surface 112 and extends from the brim 104 to the lower surface 114. The channel 116 is adapted to facilitate delivery therethrough of a second liquid (which may be, for example, any of the relatively mild liquids described herein) carried by the coverless container. Illustratively, the channel 116 has an angular width about the longitudinal axis 106 of substantially 90 degrees (that is, 90 degrees within ±5 degrees). In other embodiments, the channel may have other angular widths about the longitudinal axis.
Devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be used to convert a container into a compartmented liquid container that facilitates consuming a first liquid (for example, any of the relatively harsh liquids described herein) and a second liquid (for example, any of the relatively mild liquids described herein) therefrom.
A method begins by providing a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (for example, the device 100 as shown in
Next, the device is detachably coupled to the liquid container proximate the liquid container outlet via an attachment element of the device. For example and as shown specifically in
A first liquid is then delivered to the liquid chamber of the device. For example and as shown specifically in
Next, the liquid container and the device are positioned to deliver the first liquid from the device. More specifically, the liquid container and the device are positioned in a first orientation in which the body of the device inhibits flow of the second liquid through the device outlet. For example and as shown specifically in
The liquid container and the device are then positioned to deliver the second liquid from the liquid container. More specifically, the liquid container and the device are positioned in a second orientation in which the body permits flow of the second liquid through the device outlet. For example, and as shown specifically in
The method described above and illustrated in
As another exemplary modification to the method described above and referring to
The method described above may include subsequently detaching the device from the liquid container. For example and as shown in
Devices for facilitating consumption of a plurality of liquids when coupled to coverless containers may be modified in various manners. For example,
Turning now to
The body 1502 defines a brim 1504 that illustratively includes a planar shape (see
The brim 1504 partially extends about and is coupled to a first liquid chamber 1508. The first liquid chamber 1508 is adapted to carry a first liquid, which may be, for example, any of the relatively harsh liquids described herein. The first liquid chamber 1508 includes an open end 1510 that facilitates (1) receiving the first liquid in the first liquid chamber 1508 (for example, filling the first liquid chamber 1508 with the first liquid), and (2) delivering the first liquid from the first liquid chamber 1508 (for example, facilitating pouring of the first liquid from the first liquid chamber 1508 and consumption of the first liquid by a device user). Illustratively, the first liquid chamber 1508 may be substantially concentrically disposed relative to the brim 1504. Stated another way, the first liquid chamber 1508 and the brim 1504 may share a common longitudinal axis 1506. In other embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1508 may be offset from the shared longitudinal axis 1506 with the outer edge of the first liquid chamber 1508 being disposed proximate the outer edge of the brim 1504. Stated another way, the outer diameter of the first liquid chamber 1508 may alternatively be disposed tangentially about the outer diameter of the brim 1504 and proximate the outer surface 1512. Such an alternative structure could provide a closer proximity of the first liquid chamber 1508 to a user's mouth (when positioned for consuming a first liquid) as well as provide a greater surface area for a larger channel 1524 to be disposed about the brim 1504 (allowing for greater ease of access to a second liquid when positioned for use thereinafter).
Illustratively, the first liquid chamber 1508 tapers inwardly proceeding away from the open end 1510. The first liquid chamber 1508 may taper at various angles relative to the longitudinal axis 1506. In other embodiments, the first liquid chamber does not taper and instead includes a conical shape. Illustratively, the first liquid chamber 1508 has a planar shape opposite the open end 1510. In other embodiments, the first liquid chamber has a domed shape or other curved shapes opposite the open end.
The first liquid chamber 1508 may have any of various appropriate capacities or volumes. In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber has the capacity to receive a single or double shot, according to the independent standards set forth by any of various countries, in order to maintain consistency, simplify preparation, and/or reduce over-pouring. In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1508 has a volume of substantially 1.5 fl. oz. (44.4 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1508 has a volume of substantially 1.0 fl. oz. (29.6 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1508 has a volume of substantially 3.0 fl. oz. (88.7 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1508 has the capacity to receive a less-than-standard shot volume. In a similar manner to the device 100 described above, such embodiments may appeal to resellers interested in increasing their per-sale profit margins while maintaining the appearance that customers are receiving a standard drink volume.
The body 1502 also defines an outer surface 1512 that is coupled to the brim 1504 opposite the first liquid chamber 1508. Illustratively, the outer surface 1512 tapers outwardly proceeding away from the brim 1504. In other embodiments, the outer surface tapers inwardly proceeding away from the brim, or the outer surface has a cylindrical shape (that is, a non-tapering shape). Illustratively, the outer surface 1512 may be substantially concentrically disposed relative to the first liquid chamber 1508. That is, the outer surface 1512 may have a circular cross-sectional shape, the first liquid chamber 1508 may have a circular cross-sectional shape, and the two circular cross-sectional shapes may be substantially concentrically disposed relative to each other. Stated another way, the outer surface 1512 and the first liquid chamber 1508 may share the longitudinal axis 1506. In other embodiments, the outer surface 1512 may be substantially concentrically disposed relative an associated tab-opened container, while the first liquid chamber 1508 is offset from the longitudinal axis 1506 and disposed closer to the outer surface 1512, in order to provide the potential advantages discussed previously.
The body 1502 further defines a lower surface 1514 that is coupled to the outer surface 1512 opposite the brim 1504. The lower surface 1514 couples to a guide surface 1515 opposite the outer surface 1512. The guide surface 1515 may have a shape that facilitates guiding a container to an appropriate position for coupling to the device 1500. Illustratively, the guide surface 1515 tapers inwardly proceeding away from the lower surface 1514. The guide surface 1515 couples to an attachment element opposite the lower surface 1514. The attachment element couples the device 1500 to a tab-opened container. Specifically, the attachment element includes a lower shoulder 1516 and an upper shoulder 1518 for engaging a rim of a tab-opened container to detachably secure the device 1500 to the tab-opened container. Illustratively, the lower shoulder 1516 and the upper shoulder 1518 are spaced apart such that the rim of a tab-opened container may be disposed therebetween, thereby coupling the device to the tab-opened container. For example and referring briefly to
The body 1502 further defines a channel 1524 that extends from the brim 1504 to the inner surface 1522. The channel 1524, together with the inner cavity 1520, is adapted to facilitate delivery therethrough of a second liquid (which may be, for example, any of the relatively mild liquids described herein) carried by the tab-opened container. Illustratively, the channel 1524 has an angular width about the longitudinal axis 1506 of substantially 90 degrees (that is, 90 degrees within ±5 degrees). In other embodiments, the channel may have other angular widths about the longitudinal axis.
As described above, devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be used to convert a container into a compartmented liquid container that facilitates consuming a first liquid (for example, any of the relatively harsh liquids described herein) and a second liquid (for example, any of the relatively mild liquids described herein) therefrom.
A method begins by providing a device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure (for example, the device 1500 as shown in
Next, the device is detachably coupled to the liquid container proximate the liquid container outlet via an attachment element of the device. For example and as shown specifically in
In some embodiments, the device may be coupled to the liquid container in the manner in which the device outlet is angularly aligned with the liquid container outlet of the liquid container. Stated another way, a plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device (not shown) may bisect both the device outlet and the liquid container outlet. For example and as shown specifically in
A first liquid is then delivered to the liquid chamber of the device. For example and as shown specifically in
Next, the liquid container and the device are positioned to deliver the first liquid from the device. More specifically, the liquid container and the device are positioned in a first orientation in which one or both of the liquid container and the body of the device inhibit flow of the second liquid through the device outlet. For example and as shown specifically in
The liquid container and the device are then positioned to deliver the second liquid from the liquid container. More specifically, the liquid container and the device are positioned in a second orientation in which the body permits flow of the second liquid through the device outlet. For example and as shown specifically in
In some embodiments, the liquid container outlet may be at substantially the same elevation in both the first orientation and the second orientation, and the device may be pivoted about the longitudinal axis relative to the liquid container to move from the first orientation to the second orientation. For example, in the first orientation the liquid container and the device are pivoted horizontally and the device outlet is at the first elevation, as described above, and the liquid container outlet is at a different, relatively low elevation. The liquid container outlet, for example, may be substantially at the relative minimum elevation of the liquid container outlet about the longitudinal axis when the liquid container and the device are pivoted horizontally (that is, the relative minimum elevation within ±45 degrees). In the second orientation, the liquid container and the device are pivoted horizontally and the device outlet is at the second elevation, as described above, and the liquid container outlet is at substantially the same elevation as the first orientation (that is, the same elevation within ±15 degrees).
The method described above and illustrated in
The method described above may include subsequently detaching the device from the liquid container. For example, the device 1500 may be decoupled from the tab-opened can 1600 by pulling the device 1500 and the tab-opened can 1600 in opposite directions, thereby disengaging the lower shoulder 1516 from the lower rim surface 1606 of the can 1600 and disengaging the upper shoulder 1518 from the upper rim surface 1608 of the can 1600. The device may include one or more removal elements (not shown), such as those described above, to facilitate detaching the device from the can 1600. Alternatively, once the user has consumed all of the second liquid 1602 from the can 1600, the assembled unit could be appropriately disposed of. A disposable option may appeal to resellers by encouraging repeat customer purchases while also reducing the cost of labor associated with retrieving, cleaning, and storing the device 1500.
Devices according to embodiments of the disclosure may each facilitate coupling the device to two or more different types of liquid containers. That is, generally, devices according to embodiments of the disclosure may each include two or more attachment elements, and each of the attachment elements facilitates coupling the device to a different type of liquid container. As such, these embodiments facilitate consumption of a first liquid from the device and a second liquid from a variety of liquid containers that may be coupled to the device.
In some embodiments, the lower portion 1804 of the body 1802, which is shown individually in
Proximate the inlet 1816 and within the lower portion 1804, the lower portion 1804 includes a first guide surface 1820. The first guide surface 1820 may have a shape that facilitates guiding a container to an appropriate position for coupling to the device 1800. Illustratively, the first guide surface 1820 tapers inwardly proceeding away from the inlet 1816. The first guide surface 1820 couples to a first attachment element opposite the inlet 1816. The first attachment element is adapted to detachably couple the device 1800 to a specific type of liquid container and facilitate delivering a second liquid carried by the liquid container to the device 1800 via the inlet 1816. Illustratively and referring briefly to
The first lower shoulder 1822 and the first upper shoulder 1824 provide the first attachment element with a diameter that facilitates press-fittingly and detachably receiving the tab-opened container. For example, the diameter may be substantially 2.0 in. (51 mm) (that is, 2.0 in. (51 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)), substantially 2.1 in. (53 mm) (that is, 2.1 in. (53 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)), substantially 2.5 in. (64 mm) (that is, 2.5 in. (64 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)), substantially 2.7 in. (69 mm) (that is, 2.7 in. (69 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)), or substantially 3.0 in. (76 mm) (that is, 3.0 in. (76 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)).
Above the first attachment element, the lower portion 1804 includes a second guide surface 1828. The second guide surface 1828 may have a shape that facilitates guiding a container to an appropriate position for coupling to the device 1800. Illustratively, the second guide surface 1828 tapers inwardly proceeding away from the first attachment element. The second guide surface 1828 couples to a second attachment element opposite the first attachment element. The second attachment element is adapted to detachably couple the device 1800 to a specific type of liquid container and facilitate delivering a second liquid carried by the liquid container to the device 1800 via the inlet 1816. Illustratively and referring briefly to
The second lower shoulder 1830 and the second upper shoulder 1832 provide the second attachment element with a diameter that facilitates press-fittingly and detachably receiving the tab-opened container. For example, the diameter may be substantially 2.0 in. (51 mm) (that is, 2.0 in. (51 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)), substantially 2.1 in. (53 mm) (that is, 2.1 in. (53 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)), substantially 2.5 in. (64 mm) (that is, 2.5 in. (64 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)), substantially 2.7 in. (69 mm) (that is, 2.7 in. (69 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)), or substantially 3.0 in. (76 mm) (that is, 3.0 in. (76 mm) within ±0.25 in. (6.4 mm)).
Above the second attachment element, the lower portion 1804 of the body 1802 includes a curved wall 1834 that tapers inwardly proceeding away from the inlet 1816 and towards the outlet 1818. The curved wall 1834 in turn couples to the outlet 1818. The outlet 1818 press fittingly and detachably receives the second inner portion 1810, as described in further detail below. In other embodiments, the wall 1834 is alternatively angled, while maintaining the same overall configuration.
Proximate the inlet 1816, lower portion 1804 of the body 1802 further defines a lower surface 1826. Illustratively, the lower surface 1826 has a flat shape to facilitate freely standing the device 1800. In other embodiments, the lower surface has a non-flat shape, such as a curved shape or a domed shape.
Proximate the lower surface 1826, the lower portion 1804 of the body 1802 couples to the outer portion 1806 of the body 1802. In some embodiments, the outer portion 1806, which is shown individually in
Opposite the lower portion 1804, the outer portion 1806 of the body 1802 couples to the first inner portion 1808 of the body 1802. In some embodiments, the first inner portion 1808, which is shown individually in
The second inner portion 1810, which is shown individually in
In the first position, the fourth attachment element is adapted to detachably couple the device 1800 to a specific type of liquid container and facilitate delivering a second liquid carried by the liquid container to the device 1800 via the inlet 1816 of the lower portion 1804. Illustratively and referring briefly to
In the second position, the fifth attachment element is adapted to detachably couple the device 1800 to a specific type of liquid container and facilitate delivering a second liquid carried by the liquid container to the device 1800 via the inlet 1816 of the lower portion 1804. Illustratively and referring briefly to
In some embodiments, the second inner portion 1810 may include one or more selectively engageable “locking” elements that, when engaged, inhibit the second inner portion 1810 from being detached from the first inner portion 1808 and/or the lower portion 1804 (for example, “twist locking” elements). As shown in
The upper portion 1812, which is shown individually in
The brim 1854 may include one or more coupling elements that facilitate securing the upper portion 1812 to the first inner portion 1808. Illustratively, the brim 1854 includes four transversely extending projections 1860 that are each received in one of the recesses 1842 of the first inner portion 1808.
The brim 1854 partially extends about and is coupled to a first liquid chamber 1862. The first liquid chamber 1862 is adapted to carry a first liquid, which may be, for example, any of the relatively harsh liquids described herein. The first liquid chamber 1862 includes an open end 1864 that facilitates (1) receiving the first liquid in the first liquid chamber 1862 (for example, filling the first liquid chamber 1862 with the first liquid), and (2) delivering the first liquid from the first liquid chamber 1862 (for example, facilitating pouring of the first liquid from the first liquid chamber 1862 and consumption of the first liquid by a device user). Illustratively, the first liquid chamber 1862 may be substantially concentrically disposed relative to the brim 1854. Stated another way, the first liquid chamber 1862 and the brim 1854 may substantially share the longitudinal axis 1814. Illustratively, the first liquid chamber 1862 may be substantially concentrically disposed relative to the outer surface 1836 of the outer portion 1806 of the body 1802. Stated another way, the first liquid chamber 1862 and the outer surface 1836 may substantially share the longitudinal axis 1814. In other embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1862 may be offset from the shared longitudinal axis 1814 of the other portions of the device 1800, with the outer edge of the first liquid chamber 1862 disposed proximate the outer edge of the brim 1854. Stated another way, the outer diameter of the first liquid chamber 1862 may alternatively be disposed tangentially about the outer diameter of the brim 1854 and proximate the upper portion's 1812 most lateral edge. Such an alternative structure could provide a closer proximity of the first liquid chamber 1862 to a user's mouth (when positioned for consuming a first liquid) as well as provide a greater surface area for larger apertures 1856 to be disposed about the brim 1854 (allowing for greater ease of access to a second liquid when positioned for use thereinafter).
Illustratively, the first liquid chamber 1862 tapers inwardly proceeding away from the open end 1864. The first liquid chamber 1862 may taper at various angles relative to the longitudinal axis 1814. In other embodiments, the first liquid chamber does not taper and instead includes a cylindrical shape. Illustratively, the first liquid chamber 1862 has a domed shape opposite the open end 1864. In other embodiments, the first liquid chamber has other curved shapes or a planar shape opposite the open end.
The first liquid chamber 1862 may have any of various appropriate capacities or volumes. In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1862 has the capacity to receive a single or double shot, according to the independent standards set forth by any of various countries, in order to maintain consistency, simplify preparation, and/or reduce over-pouring. For example, in the United States, the standard volume of a single shot is 1.5 fl. oz. (44.4 ml) and, in Australia, the standard volume of a single shot is 1.0 fl. oz. (29.6 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1862 has a volume of substantially 1.5 fl. oz. (44.4 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1862 has a volume of substantially 1.0 fl. oz. (29.6 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1862 has a volume of substantially 3.0 fl. oz. (88.7 ml). In some embodiments, the first liquid chamber 1862 has the capacity to receive a less-than-standard shot volume. Such embodiments may appeal to resellers interested in increasing their per-sale profit margins while maintaining the appearance that customers are receiving a standard drink volume.
Together, the lower portion 1804, the first inner portion 1808, the second inner portion 1810, and the upper portion 1812 define a second liquid chamber 1866 that is configured to receive a second liquid from a coupled liquid container.
Devices that facilitate coupling to two or more different types of liquid containers according to embodiments of the disclosure may take various other forms. For example,
Devices that facilitate coupling to two or more different types of liquid containers according to embodiments of the disclosure may include fewer than the five attachment elements described above. Stated differently, devices according to embodiments of the disclosure may include different combinations of two or more of the attachment elements described above. For example,
Further, the body 3002 includes a lower portion 3004 that has some features that are similar to those of the lower portion 1804 and the outer portion 1806 of the device 1800. Specifically, proximate an inlet 3016 the lower portion 3004 of the body 3002 includes a first attachment element, which may take the form of the first attachment element of the device 1800. However, the lower portion 3004 of the device 3000 lacks the second attachment element like that of the device 1800.
Proximate the inlet 3016, lower portion 3004 of the body 3002 further defines a lower surface 3026. Illustratively, the lower surface 3026 has a flat shape to facilitate freely standing the device 3000. In other embodiments, the lower surface has a non-flat shape, such as a curved shape or a domed shape.
The lower surface 3026 couples to an outer wall 3027 of the lower portion 3004. In some embodiments, the outer wall 3027 is axisymmetric about the longitudinal axis 3014. The outer wall 3027 of the lower portion 3004 defines a second attachment element. The second attachment element is adapted to detachably couple the device 3000 to another specific type of liquid container and facilitate delivering a second liquid carried by the liquid container to the device 3000 via the inlet 3016. Illustratively, the second attachment element is an outer surface 3036 of the outer wall 3027 that is adapted to detachably and press-fittingly engage an inner surface of a coverless container to detachably secure the device 3000 to the coverless container. Accordingly, the outer surface 3036 may have a shape that is the inverse of the shape of the inner surface of the coverless container. Illustratively, the outer surface 3036 tapers inwardly proceeding away from the upper portion 3012 to facilitate use with “tapering-down” coverless containers, such as a pint glass 3110 (as a specific example, a 16 fl. oz. (473 ml) pint glass). In other embodiments, the outer surface may taper outwardly proceeding away from the upper portion (to facilitate use with “tapering-up” coverless containers, such as “wine” glasses), or the outer surface may have a semi-cylindrical shape (that is, a non-tapering shape, to facilitate use with non-tapering coverless containers, such as “coffee” mugs).
Devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be sold or otherwise provided to users with the first liquid chamber already carrying a first liquid. In such embodiments, the brim of the device may also carry a detachable cover that inhibits the first liquid from exiting the first liquid chamber prior to detachment of the cover and subsequent consumption of the first liquid by a user.
Devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be stacked or stackably coupled to adjacent devices. For example,
Mold apparatuses according to embodiments of the present disclosure receive one or more uncured materials and permit the material(s) to cure therein and thereby form one or more liquid consumption devices. In some embodiments, uncured materials that are received by mold apparatuses are consumable materials. For example, the mold apparatus may receive water that is frozen to form ice devices. As another example, mold apparatuses may receive liquids with dissolved gelatin that is cooled to form gelatinous devices. As yet another example, mold apparatuses may receive batter that is heated to form cake devices. Other examples of consumable materials that mold apparatuses may receive to form liquid consumption devices are described herein. In other embodiments, uncured materials that are received by mold apparatuses are non-consumable materials.
The mold apparatus 3600 includes a first die 3602 and a second die 3604, which is a distinct component and movable relative to the first die 3602. The first die 3602 and the second die 3604 include surfaces that together define the inverse shape of the device 100. Specifically, the first die 3602 includes a first base 3606 that carries a liquid chamber-forming feature 3608. As the name implies, the liquid chamber-forming feature 3608 forms a liquid chamber in the device 100 when uncured material cures in the mold apparatus 3600. Illustratively, the liquid chamber-forming feature 3608 is an inverted, semi-spherical tipped cone that forms the first liquid chamber 108 of the device 100. The liquid chamber-forming feature 3608 may be monolithically coupled to the first base 3606 or a distinct component from the first base 3606.
The second die 3604 includes a second base 3610 that defines a die chamber 3612 that receives uncured material. The die chamber 3612 also receives the liquid chamber-forming feature 3608 of the first die 3602. The second die 3604 includes an opening 3613 through which liquid may be poured when the dies are coupled together. In addition, the chamber 3612 carries a liquid channel-forming feature 3614. As the name implies, the liquid channel-forming feature 3614 forms the channel 116 of the device 100 when the uncured material cures in the die chamber 3612. Illustratively, the liquid channel-forming feature 3614 is a three-dimensional arc that forms the channel 116 in the outer surface 112 of the device 100. The liquid channel-forming feature 3614 may be monolithically coupled to the second base 3610 or a distinct component from the second base 3610.
The mold apparatus 3700 includes a first die 3702 and a second die 3704, which is a distinct component and movable relative to the first die 3702. The first die 3702 and the second die 3704 include surfaces that together define the inverse shape of a plurality of the devices 100. Specifically, the first die 3702 includes a first base 3706 that carries a plurality of liquid chamber-forming features 3708. As the name implies, the liquid chamber-forming features 3708 each form a liquid chamber in an associated device 100 when uncured material cures in the mold apparatus 3700. Illustratively, the liquid chamber-forming features 3708 are four inverted, semi-spherical tipped cones that each form the first liquid chamber 108 of an associated device 100. The liquid chamber-forming features 3708 may be monolithically coupled to the first base 3706 or distinct components from the first base 3706.
The second die 3704 includes a second base 3710 that defines a plurality of die chambers 3712 (illustratively, four die chambers 3712) that receive uncured material. Each die chamber 3712 also receives an associated liquid chamber-forming feature 3708 of the first die 3702. Each die chamber 3712 may be coupled to an opening through which liquid may be poured when the dies are coupled together. In addition, each die chamber 3712 carries a liquid channel-forming feature 3714. As the name implies, the liquid channel-forming features 3714 each form a channel of an associated device 100 when the uncured material cures in the die chamber 3712. Illustratively, the liquid channel-forming features 3714 are four three-dimensional arcs that each form the channel 116 in the outer surface 112 of an associated device 100. The liquid channel-forming features 3714 may be monolithically coupled to the second base 3710 or distinct components from the second base 3710.
Mold apparatuses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be used together with one or more coverless containers, which each subsequently carry a second liquid, to receive one or more uncured materials and permit the material(s) to cure therein and thereby form one or more liquid consumption devices.
The mold apparatus 3800 includes a first base 3802, a second base 3804, and a plurality of arms 3806 that detachably couple the first base 3802 and the second base 3804. The first base 3802 engages the rim of the coverless container and carries the coverless container in an inverted position while the coverless container carries an uncured material. The material cures while the first base 3802 carries the coverless container in the inverted position and thereby forms the device 800 within the coverless container. In addition, the first base 3802 carries features that form the inverse shapes in the device 800. Specifically, the first base 3802 carries a liquid chamber-forming feature 3808 that forms a liquid chamber in the device 800 when the uncured material cures in the coverless container. Illustratively, the liquid chamber-forming feature 3808 is a semi-spherical tipped cone that forms the first liquid chamber 808 of the device 800. The liquid chamber-forming feature 3808 may be monolithically coupled to the first base 3802 or a distinct component from the first base 3802. The first base 3802 also carries a liquid channel-forming feature 3810 that forms a liquid channel in an outer surface of the device 800 when the uncured material cures in the coverless container. Illustratively, the liquid channel-forming feature 3810 is a three-dimensional arc that forms the channel 816 in the outer surface 812 of the device 800. The liquid channel-forming feature 3810 may be monolithically coupled to the first base 3802 or a distinct component from the first base 3802. The second base 3804 is adapted to engage the foot of the coverless container. The arms 3806 detachably couple the first base 3802 to the second base 3804 to secure the coverless container therebetween.
Mold apparatuses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be modified in various manners. For example, a mold apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may be similar to the mold apparatus 3800, except the mold apparatus may simultaneously carry multiple coverless containers and include a liquid chamber-forming feature and a liquid channel-forming feature for each coverless container.
Embodiments of devices according to the present disclosure may include one or more illumination devices, or light-emitting devices, to provide aesthetically pleasing visual effects. In some embodiments, such illumination devices may be selectively activated by a user. In some embodiments, such illumination devices may be activated based on input from the surrounding environment. In some embodiments, such illumination devices may be as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,211,958 and may work in coordination with a projection system, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,740,391, which are hereby incorporated by reference.
Liquid consumption devices and mold apparatuses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be formed of materials that facilitate multiple uses thereof (that is, provide reusable devices and mold apparatuses) or a single use thereof (that is, provide disposable devices and mold apparatuses). For example, liquid consumption devices and mold apparatuses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be formed of one or more of polymers, composites, ceramics, pure metals, and metal alloys. Examples of polymers include acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), nylon, polylactic acid (PLA), polybenzimidazole (PBI), polycarbonate (PC), polyether sulfone (PES), high-impact polystyrene (HIPS), polyburylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polystyrene, extruded polystyrene foam (XPF), polyvinylchloride (PVC), nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), urea-formaldehyde, or the like. Examples of composites include paper, paperboard, corrugated fiberboard, paper slurry, cork, wood, carbon fiber, glass reinforced plastic (GRP), or the like. Examples of ceramics include glass, porcelain, crystal, marble, earthenware, stoneware, or the like. Examples of pure metals and metal alloys include aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, steel, silver, gold or the like. In some embodiments, disposable liquid consumption devices for use with “tapering-up” coverless containers (for example, the device 800 and stemware, such as the “wine” glass 850) may be formed of one or more materials having elastic properties. Such materials permit deformation to facilitate positioning a device in a coverless container. Thereafter, the materials also cause the device to return to its initial shape to engage the inner surface of the coverless container. Examples of materials having elastic properties include low-resilience polyurethane foam (LRPu), neoprene, sponge rubber, or the like.
In some embodiments, liquid consumption devices according to the present disclosure may be formed of one or more consumable materials to facilitate consumption of a plurality of liquids and, thereafter, the device itself. Consumable liquid consumption devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be formed of one or more of ice, frozen confections, gel confections, chocolate confections, sugar confections, bakers' confections, or the like. Ice may be used, for example, for receiving and delivering first liquids that are typically served at relatively low temperatures (for example, vodka, Jagermeister, peppermint schnapps, iced coffee, beer, chardonnay, orange juice, or the like). Examples of frozen confections include flavored ice, popsicles, frozen yogurt, ice cream, sorbet, gelato, Italian ice or the like. Examples of gel confections include sweetened and flavored gelatin, pre-mixed gelatin, liquor- or spirit-based gelatin, trifle, aspic, marshmallow, or the like. Examples of chocolate confections include chocolate-coated fruit, chocolate fudge, chocolate truffles, chocolate turtles, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, peanut butter cups, or the like. Examples of sugar confections include brittles, caramels, chewing gum, hard candies, licorice, mints, taffies, toffies, or the like. Examples of bakers' confections include brownies, cakes, cookies, doughnuts, pastries, pies, scones, or the like.
In addition to or as alternatives to the manufacturing processes described above, liquid consumption devices and mold apparatuses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be manufactured by using one or more of casting, molding, metal forming, joining, subtractive manufacturing (for example, machining) or additive manufacturing (for example, 3D printing). Examples of casting processes include centrifugal casting, die-casting, lost-wax casting, lost-foam casting, permanent mold casting, slipcasting, resin casting, or the like. Examples of molding processes include injection molding, compression molding, extrusion molding, blow molding, rotational molding, thermoforming, vacuum forming, or the like. Examples of metal forming processes include bending, curling, forging, hydroforming, roll forming, die pressing, die stamping, indenting, or the like. Examples of joining processes include welding, sintering, adhesive bonding, fastening, press fitting or the like. Examples of subtractive manufacturing processes include milling, turning, drilling, tapping, die cutting, routing, laser cutting, plasma cutting, waterjet cutting, or the like. Examples of additive manufacturing processes include fused filament fabrication (FFF), fused deposition modeling (FDM), selective laser sintering (SLS), stereolithography (SLA), or the like.
In some embodiments, consumable liquid consumption devices according to the present disclosure may be manufactured by using one or more of casting, cooking, baking, freezing, additive manufacturing (for example, 3D printing), or the like. Additional manufacturing processes that may be used following the above processes include glazing, frosting, dipping, or the like (for example, if the device is formed as a cake, or to add a solid layer to inhibit absorption of a contained first liquid).
Materials used to form liquid consumption devices and mold apparatuses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include, or may contain inks, dyes, or pigments that include, one of more of the following properties: thermochromism, photochromism, piezochrom ism, electrochromism, fluorescence, chemiluminescence, phosphorescence, dishwasher-safeness, heat resistance (to facilitate receiving liquids that are served at higher temperatures, such as espresso, warm sake, hot toddies, or the like), recyclability, compostability, and biodegradability.
Liquid consumption devices and mold apparatuses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more of alphanumeric text, symbols, patterns, images, logos, graphics, or other indicia on one or more surfaces thereof. Such features may be provided by one or more of embossing, debossing, printing, etching, engraving, or the like.
In some embodiments, the devices described above provide opportunities for adding aesthetic appeal to otherwise simple cocktails, given the greater number of manufacturing and material options available compared to a typical lid. In some embodiments, the devices described above facilitate providing unusual menu items to the bar and restaurant industries. For example, a liquid (such as wheatgrass or a cheese and crackers flavored spirit) could be provided atop a glass of wine.
Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this disclosure also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the above described features.
Claims
1. A mold apparatus for forming a liquid consumption device, the mold apparatus comprising:
- a die comprising a die chamber, the die chamber being adapted to receive an uncured material and permit the uncured material to cure therein and thereby form the liquid consumption device;
- a liquid chamber-forming feature disposed within the die chamber and adapted to form a liquid chamber in the liquid consumption device when the uncured material cures in the die chamber; and
- a liquid channel-forming feature disposed within the die chamber and adapted to form a liquid channel in an outer surface of the liquid consumption device when the uncured material cures in the die chamber.
2. The mold apparatus of claim 1, wherein the liquid channel-forming feature monolithically couples to the die within the die chamber.
3. The mold apparatus of claim 1, wherein the die is a first die, and further comprising a second die being movable relative to the first die, the second die comprising the liquid chamber-forming feature.
4. The mold apparatus of claim 3, wherein the second die further comprises a base, and the liquid chamber-forming feature monolithically couples to the base.
5. The mold apparatus of claim 3, wherein the first die includes an opening through which liquid is pourable when the first die is coupled to the second die.
6. The mold apparatus of claim 1, wherein the die comprises a plurality of die chambers, each of the die chambers being adapted to receive an associated uncured material and permit the associated uncured material to cure therein and thereby form an associated liquid consumption device, and further comprising:
- a plurality of liquid chamber-forming features, each of the liquid chamber-forming features disposed within one of the die chambers and adapted to form a liquid chamber in the associated liquid consumption device when the associated uncured material cures in the die chamber; and
- a plurality of liquid channel-forming features, each of the liquid channel-forming features disposed within one of the die chambers and adapted to form a liquid channel in an outer surface of the associated liquid consumption device when the associated uncured material cures in the die chamber.
7. The mold apparatus of claim 6, wherein each of the liquid channel-forming features monolithically couples to the die within one of the die chambers.
8. The mold apparatus of claim 6, wherein the die is a first die, and further comprising a second die being movable relative to the first die, the second die comprising the liquid chamber-forming features.
9. A mold apparatus for forming a liquid consumption device, the mold apparatus comprising:
- a base adapted to engage a rim of a coverless container while the coverless container carries an uncured material, the base being adapted to permit the uncured material to cure in the coverless container and thereby form the liquid consumption device;
- a liquid chamber-forming feature carried by the base and adapted to form a liquid chamber in the liquid consumption device when the uncured material cures in the coverless container; and
- a liquid channel-forming feature carried by the base and adapted to form a liquid channel in an outer surface of the liquid consumption device when the uncured material cures in the coverless container.
10. The mold apparatus of claim 9, wherein the liquid chamber-forming feature monolithically couples to the base.
11. The mold apparatus of claim 9, wherein the liquid channel-forming feature monolithically couples to the base.
12. The mold apparatus of claim 9, wherein the base is adapted to carry the coverless container in an inverted position when the uncured material cures in the coverless container.
13. The mold apparatus of claim 9, wherein the base is a first base, and further comprising a second base adapted to detachably couple to the first base.
14. The mold apparatus of claim 13, wherein the second base is adapted to engage a foot of the coverless container.
15. The mold apparatus of claim 9, wherein the liquid chamber-forming feature comprises a cone.
16. The mold apparatus of claim 15, wherein the cone is a semi-spherical tipped cone.
17. The mold apparatus of claim 9, wherein the base is a first base, and further comprising:
- a second base adapted to engage a foot of the coverless container; and
- a plurality of arms detachably coupling the first base to the second base such that the first base and the second base are adapted to securely carry the coverless container therebetween.
18. A method for consuming a first liquid and a second liquid carried by a liquid container, the liquid container comprising a liquid container outlet adapted to permit passage of the second liquid therethrough, the method comprising:
- providing a device having a body, the body comprising: a first liquid chamber adapted to carry the first liquid; an attachment element coupled to the first liquid chamber and adapted to attach the device to the liquid container proximate the liquid container outlet; a device outlet adapted to permit passage of the second liquid therethrough;
- coupling the device to the liquid container proximate the liquid container outlet via the attachment element;
- positioning a first liquid within the first liquid chamber;
- positioning the device and the liquid container in a first orientation in which the body is positioned so as to inhibit flow of the second liquid through the device outlet;
- consuming the first liquid from the first liquid chamber while the device and the liquid container are positioned in the first orientation;
- repositioning the device and the liquid container in a second orientation in which the body is positioned so as to permit flow of the second liquid through the device outlet; and
- consuming the second liquid from the device outlet while the device and the liquid container are positioned in the second orientation.
19. A method of claim 18, wherein in the first orientation the device outlet is at a first elevation, in the second orientation the device outlet is at a second elevation, and the second elevation is less than the first elevation.
20. A method of claim 18, wherein the liquid container is a coverless container having an inner surface, the attachment element comprises a tapering outer surface of the device, and coupling the device to the liquid container comprises detachably engaging the outer surface against the inner surface.
Type: Application
Filed: Mar 22, 2021
Publication Date: Jul 8, 2021
Inventor: Dillon Patrick McCarthy (Houston, TX)
Application Number: 17/208,343
