WO2019086909 - A DRINKS CONTAINER WITH MULTIPLE CONFIGURATIONS

Abstract

A drinks container (1) comprises a main body (2) comprising an enclosing wall that spans between an upper and a lower end, the upper end open to receive fluids therethrough; a base portion (3) configured to close the lower end of the main body (2); a rim portion (6) that extends from the upper end, configured to connect with secondary accessories and; a cap (15), configured to removably connect with the main body (2) to close the open upper end.

Description

FIELD

The present invention relates to a drinks container having multiple configurations. More particularly, the present invention relates to a drinks container that can be configured in multiple ways, and which has a number of secondary accessories to assist with different configurations.

BACKGROUND

Spectating at live indoors and outdoors sports and musical events, such as the Superbowl, soccer World Cup, Formula1 motor racing or concerts, or other similar events such as major music world tours, is a highly popular leisure activity. Even if fans are unable to attend an event live, they will frequently hold viewing parties or other similar events. Fans may show their support or enthusiasm during an event by using instruments such as a vuvuzela or similar, and in a large venue such as a stadium, may use binoculars or a telescope or similar to assist them with following the play of the game. Fans will usually consume beverages during the game, especially if showing their support vocally or by using instruments and in some concerts or night sporting events by using handheld light devices for illumination purposes. Carrying or using multiple items such as some combination of a beverage container, telescope or similar, and/or an instrument, and/or a lantern, and/or a torch, and/or a megaphone and possibly other items also, can be difficult for a single person. Even if an individual has easy access to a holdall, backpack or similar (and for security reasons, these may not be allowed in a venue), they may not wish to carry a number of bulky items with them, and they may not be able to easily access this once they are in the venue and seated or standing. It is also common for fans to desire a souvenir or memorabilia of some sort, especially for large events and tournaments or those of a particular significance, and they may wish to have something that they can use to continue their celebrations or to show support at other venues, or outside of games days or game times, or at work or home.

In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the present invention to provide a drinks container having multiple configurations which goes some way to overcoming the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public or industry with a useful choice.

The term “comprising” as used in this specification and indicative independent claims means “consisting at least in part of”. When interpreting each statement in this specification and indicative independent claims that includes the term “comprising”, features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as “comprise” and “comprises” are to be interpreted in the same manner.

As used herein the term “and/or” means “and” or “or”, or both.

As used herein “(s)” following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

Accordingly, in an aspect the present invention may broadly be said to consist in a drinks container, comprising: a main body comprising an enclosing wall that spans between an upper and a lower end, the upper end open to receive fluids therethrough, the upper end of the main body configured to connect with secondary accessories; a removable base portion configured to close the lower end of the main body; a cap, configured to removably connect with the upper end of the main body to close the open upper end.

In an embodiment, the main body is substantially tubular.

In an embodiment, the side wall comprises a double shell, a gap formed between the inner and outer shells.

In an embodiment, the gap is configured to receive a graphical insert.

In an embodiment, the gap is configured to receive a flexible LCD screen.

In an embodiment, an aperture is formed through the side wall, the drinks container further comprising a spout, the side wall configured to removably receive the spout.

In an embodiment, the spout is detachable, and is further configured to act as a whistle.

In an embodiment, the base portion is detachable from the main body.

In an embodiment, the base portion can be fitted to house a power supply, such as a battery pack to supply power to the flexible LCD main container screen.

In an embodiment, the rim portion comprises a main rim and an extension portion configured to extend to one side of the container and allow the connection of a handle in a spaced arrangement from the main body.

In an embodiment, the handle is detachable and connectable to form various embodiments, such as the musical instrument body, the telescope body, the torch handle, the magnifying glass handle and the lantern stand.

In an embodiment, the handle is detachable and connectable to the lens housing frame, the large telescope lens connectable to the lens housing to form a magnifying glass.

In an embodiment, the rim portion comprises a main rim and an extension portion configured to extend to one side and allow the connection of at least one accessory in a spaced arrangement from the main body.

In an embodiment, the rim portion detachably connects to the main body.

In an embodiment, the at least one accessory comprises at least a portion of a musical instrument, the musical instrument portion configured to act as a handle when connected to the rim portion, the musical instrument detachable for playing.

In an embodiment, the musical instrument comprises a recorder or penny whistle.

In an embodiment, at least a portion of the whistle comprises a detachable mouthpiece for the musical instrument.

In an embodiment, the at least on accessory comprises a telescope eye piece.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises an infuser configured to locate within the main body and to be held in position by the rim portion, the infuser having a body portion with a substantially open upper end, the infuser configured to hold a volume of material and to allow liquid to pass through the body portion.

In an embodiment, the wall portion is formed as a grid.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises a water filter having a filter body and open top end, the filter configured to receive water via the open top end and provide filtered water from a lower end.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises a storage compartment, comprising a lower storage portion and an upper closing portion configured to connect together to form a cavity or storage space between the two portions.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises a horn bell configured to connect with the upper end of the drinks container at the upper end thereof, the horn bell further configured for connection to the outer end of the musical instrument to form a horn.

In an embodiment, the main body with the base removed can be connected to the outer end of the horn bell.

In an embodiment, the cap is configured to have the appearance of a game ball.

In an embodiment, the game ball cap is configured to house a speaker unit inside it.

In an embodiment, the base is further configured to comprise a light, the side wall configured so that the light can diffuse upwards to penetrate between the shells, and then outwards from the sides of the main body.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises a ground spike configured for connection to the drinks container to hold the container upright and stable a short distance above the ground.

In an embodiment, the large lens base is connectable to the open top of the main container and the horn bell and musical instrument main body are connectable to the base of the main container, the eye piece connectable to the outer end of the musical instrument main body to form a telescope.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises a telescope handle connectable to the main body and configured to be grasped by the hand of a user to hold the telescope in the required position and manipulate the telescope.

In an embodiment, the main container with the base removed is connectable to the torch adapter. The torch adapter is configured to comprise a light source, so that the light can diffuse upwards through the main container to penetrate the large lens connected to the open top of the main container to form a torch.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises a handle module connectable to the torch adapter and configured to be grasped by the hand of a user to hold the torch and manipulate the torch.

In an embodiment, the main container with the base removed is connectable to the synthesiser voice module, the sound diffuses upwards through the main container to penetrate the speaker grill connected to the open top of the main container to form a voice synthesiser.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises a handle module connectable to the synthesiser voice module and configured to be grasped by the hand to form a handheld voice synthesiser.

In an embodiment, the main container with the base removed is connectable to the megaphone voice module, the sound diffuses upwards through the container to penetrate the horn amplifier connected to the open top of the main container to form a megaphone.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises a handle module connectable to the main container and configured to be grasped by the hand of a user to hold the megaphone.

In an embodiment, the drinks container further comprises two or more drinks containers can be stacked via their rim portions.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

This invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features, and where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Further aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show an embodiment of the device by way of example, and in which:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view from one side and in front of an embodiment of the drinks container having multiple secondary accessories of the present invention, showing a main container body, a lid for the container body, a handle and the connection to the container body of the handle, and a spout for drinking from the container.

FIG. 2a shows an exploded perspective view of the drinks container of FIG. 1, showing detail of the main container body, a connector that connects to the open top of the body and which allows connection of secondary accessories, a number of other secondary elements that are located inside the body and held in position through a secondary storage compartment base, and a lid that can be shaped as a novelty item such as a game ball as shown in this embodiment.

FIG. 2b shows a perspective view of a number of additional secondary elements that are used with the secondary elements of the embodiment of FIG. 2a, these comprising a second complementary half for the novelty game ball lid, an additional cup rim, a ground spike, a whistle counterpart, a telescope handle and an instrument base or outer end, a compartment base/shelf with light housing attachment underneath, and a second light unit.

FIG. 2c shows a perspective view of a number of additional secondary elements that are used with the secondary elements of the embodiment of FIGS. 2a and 2b, these comprising a lens housing frame, a torch adapter, a handle model, a synthesiser voice module, a speaker grill, a megaphone voice module, and a horn amplifier.

FIG. 3a shows a detail perspective view from one end and to the side view of the spout of FIGS. 1 and 2, the spout of this embodiment comprising a mouth part and a spout counterpart, these screwing together to form the spout, the counterpart fitting to the body as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2a.

FIG. 3b shows a detail perspective view from one end and to the side view of the combination spout/whistle of FIGS. 1 and 2, the combination spout/whistle of this embodiment comprising the spout mouth part and a whistle body counterpart, these screwing together to form the whistle.

FIG. 4 shows a perspective view from each end and to the side, and a perspective exploded view, of the telescope assembled from the secondary elements, the telescope having an eyepiece, a telescope body, and a handle, the handle, body, eyepiece and main lens assembled by screwing together to form the telescope.

FIG. 5 shows a detail perspective view from above and to one side of the water filter and infuser of the present invention, the filter nesting inside the infuser in use, the infuser formed as a cylindrical open-topped cage that fits snugly within the interior of the main container body, and which has an open and threaded top to allow attachment to another element, to hold the infuser in position.

FIG. 6 shows detail of the handle of the previous figures, which also acts as the main body of a woodwind musical instrument, the handle being hollow and having a number of finger holes along the body, a cover for the holes shown that fits over and through the holes when the instrument is not in use and is being used as a handle.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective side view of an embodiment of musical instrument that is formed from three of the secondary elements, the instrument of this embodiment being a woodwind instrument having a main body that also forms the handle of the drinks container, and a mouth part or head that doubles as the mouth part of the whistle of FIG. 3 and the drinking spout of FIG. 1, and a base portion.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective side view of the mouthpart and main body of the musical instrument of FIG. 6 and the cup handle of FIG. 2a, with the base part replaced by a bell horn extension.

FIG. 9 shows the musical instrument in the configuration of FIG. 7, with the addition of the main container body to the base of the bell horn extension, the bottom of the main container body removed to form an opening through which air and sound waves can pass.

FIG. 10 shows an exploded perspective view of the drinks container, showing detail of a hidden storage compartment shelf and base, the compartment closed in use by the compass, bell horn extension, and a light, telescopic lenses and the novelty game ball lid, the storage compartment shelf joined to the main container through internal threading on the inside of the cup and threading on the outside of the storage compartment shelf.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective side view of the drinks container of the present invention assembled, with the main handle part and bell horn extension screwed to and extending axially from the base of the main container, and with the ground spike screwed into and extending axially from the lower or outer end of the main handle part so that the spike can be inserted into the ground to hold the drinks container in position, the main body of the drink container illuminable via the option of two light units, so that the drinks container forms a lantern, one light unit attached internally through the base of the container and the other light unit through the top part of the container attached beneath the compartment shelf.

FIG. 12 shows a perspective side view of the drinks container with most of the secondary items removed, the base and light, lid, rim and compartment shelf with secondary light unit still in position so that the container forms a freestanding lamp or light that can be used as a nightstand light or nightlight.

FIG. 13a shows a perspective side view of the novelty game ball lid and the second half of the novelty game ball lid, these mutually threaded to allow them to be screwed together to form a souvenir game ball.

FIG. 13b shows a perspective side view of a number of different configurations of novelty game ball lids, each mutually threaded to allow two halves to be screwed together to form a souvenir ball.

FIG. 14a shows a perspective view from one side and in front and above, of a number of the drinks containers of FIGS. 1 to 13 stacked in a spiral by inserting the base of the handle of an upper drinks container into the top of the handle of a lower container to form a spiral stack of the containers.

FIG. 14b shows a perspective view from one side of the stacked containers of FIG. 14a.

FIG. 14c shows perspective and plan views of embodiments of the handle, the handle in one embodiment having an octagonally-shaped hollow central portion that allows the handles and the drinks containers to be stacked in discrete positions or angles to one another.

FIG. 14d shows a number of the container bodies, rims and handles only stacked in the same manner as the containers of FIGS. 14a and 14b.

FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of a first form of drinks bottle for use with the drinks container of the previous figures, the drinks bottle having a main body that holds a quantity of fluid in use, and a wrap material that partly encloses the main body, leaving gaps through which the contents can be viewed, the main body having a compartment that opens at the base of the bottle and extends upwards inside the bottle, separate to the fluid-containing part of the main body, the compartment closed in use by a base cap.

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of a variation or second form of drinks bottle for use with the drinks container of the previous figures, the second form of drink bottle broadly the same as the first form, except for the shape of the wrap material, and the cap that closes the fluid-containing part of the main body, which in this second form has the shape of a sports ball.

FIG. 17 shows a perspective exploded view of the first form of drinks bottle of FIG. 15, showing a main container body as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 that is stored inside the compartment of the drinks bottle and held in place by the base cap.

FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of a third form of drinks bottle, the drinks bottle in this embodiment having a base cap and a cap that closes the fluid-containing part of the main body that are shaped to have the appearance of car tyres.

FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of the removable bottle base cap with attachments, the base cap in this embodiment having a compass attachment and a light attachment.

FIG. 20 shows a perspective exploded view of the magnifying glass, assembled from the secondary elements, the magnifying glass having a lens housing frame, the handle and main lens assembled by screwing together to form the magnifying glass.

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view from each end and to the side, and a perspective exploded view, of the torch assembled from the secondary elements, the torch having a torch adapter, a large lens, and a handle, the handle, main container body, torch adapter and main lens assembled by screwing together to form the torch.

FIG. 22 shows a perspective view from each end and to the side, and a perspective exploded view, of the voice synthesiser assembled from the secondary elements, the voice synthesiser having a synthesiser voice module, a speaker grill, and a handle, the handle, main container body, synthesiser voice module and speaker grill assembled by screwing together to form the voice synthesiser.

FIG. 23 shows a perspective view from each end and to the side, and a perspective exploded view, of the megaphone assembled from the secondary elements, the megaphone having a megaphone voice module, a horn amplifier, and a handle, the handle, main container body, voice module and horn amplifier assembled by screwing together to form the megaphone.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An embodiment of the drinks container of the present invention will now be described with reference to the figures.

The drinks container 1 has a main container body 2, and a number of secondary accessories that attach to and can be used with, or independently of, the main container body 2. The main container body 2, the secondary items, and the manner in which the interact; will be described in detail below.

Main Container Body

The main container body 2 in this embodiment is generally cylindrical with an open end or top, through which drinks such as tea, coffee, soda or other soft drinks, or alcoholic drinks such as beer, can be poured into the container 1. The top end of the main container 2 is threaded, on the inside surface, the thread extending downwards a short distance inside the container.

The opposite or lower end of the container body is closed by a removable base 3, the base 3 and lower end of the body 2 mutually threaded so that the base 3 can be screwed onto and off of the lower end. The base 3 will be described further below.

An aperture is formed through the side wall of the container 2, close to the top end. A spout housing 4 is formed around the aperture, integral with the main body of the container 2 and extending outwards from the side wall. A removable combination spout/whistle 5 connects with the housing 4 via a spout counterpart 5c, the housing 4 having two side walls that extend around the sides of the spout/whistle 5, the two side walls having internal dimples into which complimentary nubs on the sides of the counterpart 5c locate to hold the counterpart 5c (and thus the spout/whistle 5) in position, the dimples and numbs allowing partial rotation of the spout/whistle 5 around an axis of rotation substantially perpendicular to the main axis of the container 2. The spout/whistle 5 will be described in detail below.

The main container 2 in this embodiment is configured with a side wall that has a double shell. In this embodiment, the space between the double sheets or double skins can be filled with a removable or insertable graphic or picture, such as a team picture or team logo or similar. A flexible LCD screen could also be inserted, connected via a USB port or similar to a power supply and signal source, to allow moving images to be uploaded and displayed, a USB port and a battery power supply are housed in base 3. In other embodiments the wall can be formed as a single layer or single shell.

Rim Body

The drinks container 1 has a rim body 6 that in use connects to the top end of the main container body 2. The rim body 6 has the form of a circular hoop 6a with an extension portion 6b extending from one side. The rim body 6a is configured to connect with the threaded upper end of the container body 2 via a threaded connection, a male/female slot and twist system, or similar. The extension portion 6b has a circular aperture passing therethrough, the axis parallel to that of the main container 2.

Handle

The aperture of the extension portion 6b allows attachment of a combination handle/main body 7b to the rim 6. The upper end of the main body 7b passes upwards through the underside of the extension portion 6b, so that the main body extends downwards alongside the container body 2 to act as a handle. The musical instrument will be described in detail below. In this embodiment, the musical instrument is a wind instrument similar to a recorder or penny whistle, and has finger holes along the length of the main body 7b. These are covered by a handle cover 10 when the musical instrument is being used as a handle or is otherwise not in use or being used for a different purpose.

An eye piece 8 is removably attached to the top of the extension portion of the main body handle 6b. The threaded top portion of the handle 7b extends through the aperture in the extension portion 6b, with the eye piece 8 screwing to the threaded portion of the main body 7b to hold these in place. The eye piece 8 forms part of a telescope which will be described in detail below.

Spout/Whistle

The spout/whistle 5 comprises a mouth part 5a and two counterparts: a spout counterpart 5c, and a whistle counterpart 5b. As shown in FIG. 3a, when used as a spout, the mouth part 5a is screwed to the spout counterpart 5c, a passage 21 through the spout counterpart 5c allowing fluid to pass therethrough from the container 2, when the passage 21 is aligned with an aperture in the side of the container 2 by rotating the spout upwards into position. The spout can be closed and sealed by rotating this to the downwards position as shown in FIG. 1. The spout/whistle 5 is held in place in the body 2 by a friction fit, as outlined above, and can be removed to be used as a whistle, with the mouth part 5a screwed to the whistle counterpart 5b as shown in FIG. 3b. The air passes through side passages 24 separate to the central drinking passage.

Infuser

An infuser 9 is removably located in the interior of the container 2. The infuser 9 is generally cylindrical, and has a height substantially the same as the interior of the container 2, but a circumferential size that allows it to fit loosely within the interior of the container 2. The base or bottom is closed. The infuser 9 is located within the container 2 in use. The infuser 9 has a threaded top rim that screws to the underside of a compartment shelf base 13 to prevent the infuser from dropping loosely onto the bottom of the container 2. The compartment shelf will be described in further detail below.

The sides of the body of the infuser 9 is formed as a grid, so that fluid can flow into and out of the infuser 9 through the apertures 11 that make up the grid. In this embodiment, the apertures 11 are reasonably large, 3-4 mm on each side. The infuser can in use be filled with fruit or other similar material via the open top, and this will then soak in, and infuse, any liquid such as water already in the container 2, to make a refreshing drink.

Water Filter

A water filter 12 locates within the infuser 9. Water can be poured into the open top of the filter 12, through an opening in the compartment shelf opening 13a, passing through the filter 12 and out of an aperture at the bottom of the filter, purified and drinkable. The water filter screws to the bottom of the compartment shelf base.

Lid/Hidden Compartment Shelf

A lid 13 can be screwed down onto the top of the container 2. There are two types of container lid, each similar to the other except that lid 13a has a central aperture that allows fluid to pass therethrough, and lid 13b is closed (no aperture). In this embodiment, the lid 13a has an opening on the shelf floor to allow water access to the filter/infuser system, the lid compartment floor comprising a threaded underside to which the water filter and infuser screw into. A screw lid 23 can be used to close the aperture in lid 13a.

In this the second embodiment the lid 13b does not have an opening on the shelf floor but comprises a lower storage portion cavity. The lid compartment floor comprises a threaded underneath to which the light unit screws into to form a lamp or a lantern (as described in further detail below).

This cavity has the form of a squat cylinder, and in this embodiment is used to store items such as a compass, souvenir medals or similar, and telescope lenses, the light unit and the horn bell as described in detail below.

Game Ball Cap

A game ball cap 15 forms a top closure for the drinks container 1. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, this has the form of half of an American ‘gridiron’ football, cut in half perpendicular to the long axis. The cap 15 is hollow, with one half having an internal thread to allow attachment of the horn bell 14 (see below) and has a flange section that extends slightly from the open wider end, the flange section externally threaded to connect with the threaded inner side of the cup body 2. The lid 13 and horn bell 14, light unit 16 and the main and secondary lenses 18a, 18b are enclosed within the game ball cap, and the infuser 9 and water filter 12 enclosed within the main container 2, beneath the lid or compartment shelf 13. A second half 20 of the game ball can be provided, the second half 20 similar to the game ball cap 15, and connecting to the open end of the cap 15 to form a whole ball, which can be used as a souvenir, or as a storage container, or similar. As shown in FIG. 12b, other styles of lid are also possible, such as for example a basketball, baseball or soccer ball styled lid.

In some embodiments, the game ball cap 15 can be formed to act as a speaker. The speaker can be connected to a hardwired or wireless audio source such as for example a mobile phone, laptop or similar, and either used by itself or in conjunction with the LCD screen. Connected via a USB port or similar to a power supply and signal source, to allow music to be uploaded, streamed and played, USB port and battery power supply for the speaker lid is housed in base 3.

In this embodiment, the speaker lid unit can be attached to the empty cavity of the cup—main container body 2—to act as a speaker amplifier or to connect to the ball cap to its counterpart 15b, to be used as a separate free standing speaker unit.

Horn Bell

As outlined above, and as shown in FIG. 12b, the horn bell 14 screws into the cap 15. The horn bell 14 can be used to form part of the musical instrument, screwing onto the lower end to extend the lower end and increase the volume/power of the musical instrument. This will be described in detail below.

A number of other secondary items are also used with the preferred embodiment.

Musical Instrument

As outlined above, the handle is formed from the main body 7b of a musical instrument 7. The main body 7b can be removed from the rim 6. The mouth part 5a can be unscrewed from it's counterpart (either 5b or 5c) and screwed into the top end of the main body 7b. A base part 7c can then be screwed to the outer end of the main body 7b. With the mouthpiece 5a, the main body 7b and the base part or flute attachment 7c, a musical instrument similar to a recorder or penny whistle is formed.

The musical instrument can be enhanced by screwing the horn bell 14 onto the outer end of the base part 7b to increase the volume and intensity of the music produced. The musical instrument can be further enhanced by unscrewing the base 3 from the lower end of the main container 2, removing all the other material from the main container 2, and screwing the main container 2 onto the outer end of the horn bell 14, in order to further increase the volume and intensity of the music produced.

Base and Light

As outlined above, the base 3 is removable from the bottom of the main container 2. A main light unit 16a can be connected with the base 3, by screwing this into the threaded inside of container 2, the light unit formed as a circular disc that locates into a recess on the top of the base 3. When the main light unit 16a and base 3 are screwed into the bottom of the main container 2, the light can be turned on. As outlined above, the main container 2 is configured with a side wall that has a double shell (or single shell and/or LCD screen shell), and the light diffuses upwards to penetrate between the shells, and then outwards from the sides of the main body.

Base, USB and Power Supply Battery Unit

As outlined above, the base 3 is removable from the bottom of the main container 2. On the external side wall of base 3 is a USB port and in the internal cavity a battery unit, used in conjunction with the LCD screen and speaker lid as a power source and connectivity point.

Lamp

The main body can thus be used as a lantern or light. In this embodiment, as outlined above, the space between the double sheets or double skins can be filled with a removable or insertable graphic or picture, such as a team picture or team logo, or if the LCD screen version is used, a moving image or video, or similar, the effect of the picture being enhanced by the light. The lamp configuration can be used for example as a night light for young sports and music fans, or for illumination when exiting dark arenas, or similar.

Lantern

Although the lamp can be rested on it's flat base, it may be preferable to have a way of retaining the lamp portion in an upright position, and slightly raised in order to provide a wider pool of light.

A ground spike 17 is provided as one of the secondary accessories. As shown in FIG. 10, the ground spike 17 and the inner end of the main body 7b can be connected (in this embodiment by mutually co-operating threaded ends), with the horn bell 14 connected to the outer threaded part of container 2, whilst the main light unit 16a screws into the inside threaded base part 3 of container 2. A secondary light unit 16b screws into the top part of container 2, via the underside of the compartment shelf 13b, to create even more illumination. The ground spike can be driven into the ground a short distance to hold the apparatus upright and stable a short distance above the ground, and so provide light, for example for an evening in the garden, a post-game picnic at dusk in the park, held up high in stadiums, music concert and festivals, motor sports night racing circuits and race tracks or similar. A third light unit 16c is shown in FIG. 2b. This is an extra light unit that can be coloured to provide variation.

Telescope

In larger stadiums, it can be difficult for fans in the furthest-away seats to see details of play, or similar ‘at-a-distance’ events, such as outdoor concerts, horse racing and motor sport circuits and events. The drinks container 1 can be converted into a telescope, by using the main container 2 to form the body of the telescope. A large lens 18a is screwed into the open top of the main container 2. Rim 22 screws over the top of this. An additional internal lens 18b is screwed into the bottom of the main container 2. In some embodiments, the horn bell 14 is screwed onto the base of the main container 2, and the musical instrument/handle main body 7b and handle cover 10 is screwed onto the horn bell in the normal manner. The eye piece 8 is then screwed into the outer, open end of the main body 7b. The spout/whistle 5 can be used as a handle, or the spout drinking portion 5a can be removed from 5c and replaced with a telescope handle 19, screwed into position on the end of the spout counterpart 5c in the hood housing unit 4.

Magnifying Glass

The drinks containers additional secondary elements can be converted into a magnifying glass, by using the lens housing frame 33, the handle main body 7b and handle cover 10 to form the body of the magnifying glass. A large lens 18a is screwed into the open centre of the lens housing module 33 to form the viewing lens. The frame 33 includes a threaded socket handle 35 to receive a threaded spigot part of the handle main body 7b. The frame may include multiple light sources 34 disposed around its annular rim to illuminate a target. The lens for the magnifying glass may be integrated with the frame but will preferably be provided by installation of the main lens 18a, as shown in FIG. 20.

Torch

Although the lamp can be rested on it's flat base and the lantern in an upright position, you may wish to have something a little more versatile whilst on the move. A torch adapter 40 is provided as one of the secondary accessories. As shown in FIG. 21, the torch adapter 40 connected to the outer threaded base part of main container 2, and the inner end of the handle main body 7b can be connected (in this embodiment by mutually co-operating threaded ends), into holding socket 43 extending radially from the ring part of the torch adapter 40. The torch adapter configured to comprise a light source, so that the light can diffuse upwards through the container to penetrate the large lens 18a connected to the open top of the main container 2 by rim 22. A switch 44 is provided on the handle holding socket 43 in order to turn the light source on and off. The eye piece 8 is then screwed into the outer, open end of the handle main body 7b.

Voice Synthesiser

A synthesiser voice module 38 is provided as one of the secondary accessories. As shown in FIG. 22, the synthesiser voice module 38 connected to the outer threaded base part of main container 2. The synthesiser voice module configured to comprise a special effect sound source, so that the sound can diffuse upwards through the main body container 2 to penetrate the speaker grill 39 connected to the open top of the main container 2 by rim 22. A handle module 37 connects to the base of the synthesiser voice module 38 forming the synthesiser rear handle. The synthesiser voice module includes a microphone and a control panel to enable selection of sound/voice changing effects.

Megaphone

A megaphone voice module 36 is provided as one of the secondary accessories. As shown in FIG. 23, the megaphone voice module 36 connected to the outer threaded base part of main container 2. The megaphone voice module configured to create a loud sound source, so that the loud sound can diffuse upwards through the main container body 2 to penetrate the horn amplifier 35 connected to the open top of the main container 2 by rim 22. The spout/whistle 5 can be used as a handle, or the spout drinking portion 5a can be removed from 5c and replaced with a telescope handle 19, screwed into position on the end of the spout counterpart 5c in the hood housing unit 4. Megaphone voice module 36 includes a microphone 37 and a control panel 38 to enable selection of sound/voice changing effects.

Compass

FIG. 2a the drinks container 1 holds compass 32, which may be stored into the rim body 6 compartment shelf 13b or in the base 3 of the drinks container as shown in the perspective view in FIG. 10 or may be stored in the bottles base cap 30, as shown in the perspective view of FIG. 19.

Stacking

As shown in FIG. 13, a number of the drinks containers 1 can be stacked, by removing the eye pieces 8, and inserting the lower end of a handle/main body 7b of an upper one of the containers 1 into the aperture on the rim extension portion 6b of a lower one of the containers 1. The containers 1 can thus be stacked for display or storage in a pleasing manner, and for carrying more than one drink with one hand.

As shown in FIG. 14c, in some embodiments, the hollow main body 7b has an octagonally-shaped top opening. As the containers are stacked, this ensures that the one above locates to a discrete angle or position in relation to the one below.

Drinks Bottle

An embodiment of drinks bottle 25 is shown in FIGS. 15 to 18. The drinks bottle 25 is intended to hold a quantity of beverage, and can be used with the drinks containers and other items described above, or other items as required.

The drinks bottle 25 comprises a main body 26 that holds a quantity of fluid in use. The main body 26 is in the preferred embodiment formed from aluminium, but could alternatively be formed from glass or any other suitable material such as a clear plastics material. A plastic and rubber wrap material 27 partly encloses the main body 26, leaving gaps through which the bottle/contents can be viewed. The wrap material can be formed in a variety of colours, textures and patterns, for branding purposes or similar. The wrap material provides strength and protection to the structure of the drink bottle 25. The wrap material can also fully enclose the main body 26.

In the preferred embodiment, the wrap material 27 includes a display area 28, which can be formed as a circle, a shield crest, or a similar perimeter shape. This area allows a user to print a clearly visible logo, crest or similar on the exterior of the bottle. The display area 28 could also be a separate item, such as a separate enamelled bade or a battery operated LED light unit to make the logo, crest light up or similar, that can be detached for souvenir purposes or

The wrap material can also be formed, either partly or fully, from a material that allows it to act as a flexible LCD screen. This allows a user to connect their own media player, to play their own images, or to have themed moving images or similar on a loop playing directly on the drinking bottle. The LCD screen power supply would be derived from the battery unit housed in the base cap 30. Charging, connectivity signal source, uploading and streaming would be played and accessed via the USB port or similar on the side wall of base cap 30.

The main body 26 is formed to have a compartment 29 that extends upwards from the base of the bottle, the compartment 29 opening at the base of the bottle 25. In use, the compartment 29 is closed by a base cap 30 that screws onto the bottom of the bottle, and which secures the compartment 29 closed. The base cap 30 can also connect with the bottle via a slot, twist or groove connection, or any other suitable connection mechanism.

The removable base cap 30 can be formed from injection-moulding and can be formed to have the appearance of other items. For example, if the bottle is being used to promote a car brand, a motor racing event, or similar, then the base cap 30 can be formed to have the appearance of a tyre, as is for example shown in FIG. 18 or even a football for other sporting events or similar.

In some embodiments, the removable base cap 30 is a speaker unit, in this embodiment, the base cap 30 speaker unit can be attached to the empty cavity of the bottle 29—main bottle body 26—to act as a speaker amplifier or to connect to a base cap counterpart, to be used as a separate free standing speaker unit. Which can be connected wirelessly or by a hardwired connection to an audio source, such as for example a mobile phone, laptop, or similar.

Power supply would be derived from the battery unit housed in the base cap 30 with the speaker unit. Charging, connectivity signal source, uploading and streaming would be played and accessed via the USB port or similar on the side wall of base cap 30.

Similarly, the cap 31 of the bottle, which closes the top of the main body 26 through which the fluid-fillable interior is accessed, can be formed to have the appearance of a promotional item, such as for example a tyre, a ball (a football, a basketball, a tennis ball, a golf ball, a baseball, etc), or another promotional item, such as for example a driver's helmet or rider's helmet. The themed caps could be formed as a single piece item that screws directly onto the top of the main body 26, or the closure portion of the cap could be formed as a normal screw cap, with the themed cap 31 push-fitted over the top of the normal screw cap.

The ‘tyre’ caps can also be moulded from silicone rubber or similar, so as to have the feel of a rubber tyre, as well as the appearance. Similarly, if the caps are moulded to look like other items such as footballs, basketballs, or similar, then these can be moulded to have a texture and feel similar to the item which they resemble.

The compartment 29 is sized and shaped so as to be able to contain the main container body 2, as shown in FIG. 17. In use, this piece, or any of the other pieces of the drinks container 1 described above, can be placed in compartment 29. A user will purchase a series of the drinks bottles 26 in order to collect all of the pieces and be able to build the drinks container 1. Alternatively, the compartment 29 can be used to store other gift items or collectable items, either as one-off items, or as a collectable series—for example a series of pieces for a model car, that can be collected and assembled to form a finished item made from Lego or similar.

Claims

1. A drinks container, comprising:

a main body comprising an enclosing wall that spans between an upper and a lower end, the upper end open to receive fluids therethrough, the upper end of the main body configured to connect with secondary accessories; a removable base portion configured to close the lower end of the main body; a cap, configured to removably connect with the upper end of the main body to close the open upper end.

2. A drinks container as claimed in claim 1 wherein the main body is substantially tubular.

3. A drinks container as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the side wall comprises a double shell, a gap formed between the inner and outer shells.

4. A drinks container as claimed in claim 3 wherein the gap is configured to receive a graphical insert.

5. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein an aperture is formed through the side wall, the drinks container further comprising a spout, the side wall configured to removably receive the spout.

6. A drinks container as claimed in claim 5 wherein the spout is detachable, and is further configured to act as a whistle.

7. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the base portion is detachable from the main body.

8. A drinks container as claimed in claim 7 wherein the base (portion comprises a large lens.

9. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the rim portion comprises a main rim and an extension portion configured to extend to one side and allow the connection of at least one accessory in a spaced arrangement from the main body.

10. A drinks container as claimed in claim 9 wherein the rim portion detachably connects to the main body.

11. A drinks container as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10 wherein the at least one accessory comprises at least a portion of a musical instrument, the musical instrument portion configured to act as a handle when connected to the rim portion, the musical instrument detachable for playing.

12. A drinks container as claimed in claim 11 wherein the musical instrument comprises a recorder or penny whistle.

13. A drinks container as claimed in claim 12 wherein at least a portion of the whistle comprises a detachable mouthpiece for the musical instrument.

14. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 13 wherein the at least on accessory comprises a telescope eye piece.

15. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14 further comprising an infuser configured to locate within the main body and to be held in position by the rim portion, the infuser having a body portion with a substantially open upper end, the infuser configured to hold a volume of material and to allow liquid to pass through the body portion.

16. A drinks container as claimed in claim 15 wherein the wall portion is formed as a grid.

17. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16 further comprising a water filter having a filter body and open top end, the filter configured to receive water via the open top end and provide filtered water from a lower end.

18. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17 further comprising a storage compartment, comprising a lower storage portion and an upper closing portion configured to connect together to form a cavity or storage space between the two portions.

19. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 18 further comprising a horn bell configured to connect with the upper end of the drinks container at the upper end thereof, the horn bell further configured for connection to the outer end of the musical instrument to form a horn.

20. A drinks container as claimed in claim 19 wherein the main body with the base removed can be connected to the outer end of the horn bell.

21. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 19 wherein the cap is configured to have the appearance of a game ball.

22. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 20 wherein the base is further configured to comprise a light, the side wall configured so that the light can diffuse upwards to penetrate between the shells, and then outwards from the sides of the main body.

23. A drinks container as claimed in claim 21 further comprising a ground spike configured for connection to the drinks container to hold the container upright and stable a short distance above the ground.

24. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 22 wherein the large lens base is connectable to the open top of the main container and the horn bell and musical instrument main body are connectable to the base of the main container, the eye piece connectable to the outer end of the musical instrument main body to form a telescope.

25. A drinks container as claimed in claim 23 further comprising a telescope handle connectable to the main body and configured to be grasped by the hand of a user to hold the telescope in the required position and manipulate the telescope.

26. A drinks container as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 24 wherein two or more drinks containers can be stacked via their rim portions.

27. A drinks bottle, comprising:

a main body configured to hold a quantity of fluid in use in the main part, and having a compartment separate from the main part that opens at the base of the main body and extends upwards within the main body;

a wrap material at least partly enclosing the main body;

a removable base cap configured to close the compartment when engaged with the main body.

28. A drinks bottle as claimed in claim 26 wherein the wrap material comprises a display area.

29. A drinks bottle as claimed in claim 26 or claim 27 wherein the wrap material further comprises a flexible LCD screen.

30. A drinks bottle as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 28 further comprising a cap configured to connect to the main body to close and seal the main part, the cap comprising at least a portion formed to have the appearance of a tyre.

31. A drinks bottle as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 28 further comprising a cap configured to connect to the main body to close and seal the main part, the cap comprising at least a portion formed to have the appearance of a ball.

32. A drinks bottle as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 28 further comprising a cap configured to connect to the main body to close and seal the main part, the cap comprising at least a portion formed to have the appearance of a helmet.

33. A drinks bottle as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 31 wherein the removable base cap is formed to have the appearance of a tyre.

34. A drinks bottle as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 32 wherein the removable base cap comprises a speaker unit.