SPILL RESISTANT FEEDING DEVICE

Abstract

A spill resistant item of cutlery, the spill resistant item of cutlery being flexible and having a longitudinally extending elongate member that includes a tubular retaining portion proximate a first end thereof and a gripping portion having a rigid inner portion and a flexible outer portion proximate a second end opposing the first end. In the arrangement of the invention, the tubular retaining portion has an interior retaining surface defining a retaining portion cavity, and the tubular retaining portion further includes a food inlet in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity. The spill resistant item of cutlery provides an apparatus and assistance member for assisted and self-feeding.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of PCT Application No. PCT/GB2020/052534 filed on Oct. 9, 2020, entitled Spill Resistant Feeding Device, which claims the benefit to GB 1914686.0, filed on Oct. 10, 2019 and GB 2006167.7 filed on Apr. 27, 2020, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an item of cutlery that can be used for assisted feeding of a child, such as a toddler, or an individual having limited dexterity.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

For individuals with limited dexterity or difficulty with fine motor skills, eating semi liquid food (e.g. purees) with a conventional spoon can be challenging as the food easily falls from the spoon before it reaches the mouth. For example, infants in the early stage of weaning will want to grab the loaded spoon but are likely to wave it around, causing food to fly off in all directions and limiting the food reaching the mouth. As a result, carers tend to prevent the child from grabbing the spoon. This slows down the child's development of independent self-feeding skills. Even when the carer is holding the spoon, the child often knocks it and food falls off. Similarly, for many elderly people, or people with limited dexterity, spoon feeding can be frustrating and messy, necessitating intervention from the carer, which can be damaging to the individual's sense of independence and self-respect.

Current solutions include using food pouches to feed, for example, young children. These food pouches are provided with a short straw mouthpiece, through which the semi-liquid food is sucked out of the pouch. The pouch can be squeezed to help the child's suckling efforts, allowing for a feeding method that has very little mess. However, such food pouches do not solve the issue of developing the child's dexterity in addition to normal self-feeding spoon skills. Furthermore, the food is delivered to the back of the child's mouth, thus skipping the crucial steps of the child opening its mouth to accept the spoon into the oral cavity, closing the lips to draw the bolus of food from the spoon and transmitting the bolus form the front to the back of the mouth, further inhibiting the child's development of self-feeding skills.

Another solution involves straw spoons, wherein a straw has an open spoon element as a result of a longitudinal cut. However, when waved around, food loaded on to the spoon element will readily spill. Therefore, there remains an issue with the mess caused by the lack of appropriate feeding instruments.

It is therefore desirable to provide a solution which overcomes the disadvantages of the current feeding implements.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a spill resistant item of cutlery, the spill resistant item of cutlery comprising: a longitudinally extending elongate member having; a tubular retaining portion proximate a first end thereof; and a gripping portion proximate a second end opposing the first end. The tubular retaining portion comprises an interior retaining surface defining a retaining portion cavity. The tubular retaining portion further comprises a food inlet in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity.

The spill resistant item of cutlery will be further understood as being any implement suitable for feeding.

The tubular retaining portion of the present invention preferably defines the retaining portion cavity such that the retaining portion cavity is tubular in shape. The skilled addressee will appreciate that the tubular description describes the present invention only. In additional embodiments, the tubular retaining portion comprises a volume having a cross sectional shape that is any of square, rectangular, ovular, circular or any shape that is appropriate for the functionality of the present invention. It is preferable that the tubular retaining portion cavity is of adequate volume so as to fit a food item in. If the tubular retaining portion were too small, then the food items would not be able to enter the retaining portion cavity. On the other hand, if the tubular retaining portion were too large, then food items would easily exit the retaining portion cavity.

In some embodiments, a radius of the cross-sectional shape of the tubular retaining portion varies along a longitudinal axis. Preferably, the radius increases along a first portion of the longitudinal axis and decreases along a second portion of the longitudinal axis such that the tubular retaining portion is substantially tear-drop or balloon shaped. Advantageously, the tubular retaining portion comprises a defined area on which a user may apply lip pressure.

In some embodiments, the tubular retaining portion comprises an indent. Preferably, the indent is located at an upper portion of the tubular retaining portion. Further preferably, the indent extends longitudinally along the tubular retaining portion.

In preferable embodiments, the tubular retaining portion comprises a tubular retaining portion material that allows for adequate compression such that food items are able to exit the retaining portion cavity when the tubular retaining portion is compressed. Preferably, the tubular retaining portion material is a flexible material. More preferably, the tubular retaining portion material is a flexible material that will return to its original shape after compression. Still more preferably, the tubular retaining portion material comprises a resiliently deformable material. In some embodiments, the tubular retaining portion material comprises silicone. Further embodiments will be appreciated by the skilled addressee wherein the tubular retaining portion material comprises any flexible material that allows for the compression of the tubular retaining portion. Advantageously, such an arrangement allows for greater ease of extracting food items as, in addition to suction, the tubular retaining portion can be squeezed (compressed) in order for food items to leave the retaining portion cavity.

In preferable embodiments, the interior retaining surface comprises a plurality of elevations. The plurality of elevations will be understood by the skilled addressee to be any suitably shaped elevation extending from the interior retaining surface into the retaining portion cavity. Preferably, the plurality of elevations is arranged to maximise surface adhesion between a food item present in the tubular retaining portion and the interior retaining surface. Additional embodiments may be envisaged wherein the tubular retaining portion comprises a pleat. A requirement for greater surface adhesion will require a greater surface area of the interior retaining surface, the surface area being proportional to the surface area of the plurality of elevations. It is preferable for the surface adhesion to be of sufficient magnitude such that the food items present in the tubular retaining portion are biased towards remaining within the tubular retaining portion. It is also preferable that the surface adhesion is not too great as to inhibit any attempt to remove the food item from the tubular retaining portion via, for example, suction.

In preferable embodiments, the plurality of elevations or protrusions comprises a plurality of longitudinal protrusions or ribs. In preferable embodiments the plurality of longitudinal protrusions will be understood to extend along the interior retaining surface longitudinally. In other embodiments, the plurality of protrusions comprises a plurality of protrusions extending in any direction along the interior retaining surface.

In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of longitudinal protrusions comprise a height substantially greater than the other longitudinal protrusions.

Preferably, the food inlet is proximate an anterior end of the tubular retaining portion. In preferable embodiments, the anterior end opposes an anterior end longitudinally. Preferably, the food inlet is arranged such that fluids and/or semi-fluids are able to enter or exit the retaining portion cavity via the food inlet. In preferable embodiments, the food inlet forms part of the tubular retaining portion and maximises fluid communication between the tubular retaining portion cavity and an area beyond the food inlet. The physical shape of the food inlet may preferably match the cross section of the retaining portion cavity which, in preferable embodiments, is ovular. However, other embodiments exist wherein the food inlet has a circular, square, rectangular or any other shape that allows for food items to enter the tubular retaining portion. Preferably, the food inlet is arranged to minimise protrusions from the cavity wall proximate the food inlet. Advantageously, such an arrangement reduces the build-up of food items that may occur if a lip protruded from the tubular retaining portion surface.

In some embodiments, the food inlet may comprise a smaller radius than the cross section of the retaining portion cavity.

In preferable embodiments, the food inlet may be planar and may be chosen to extend at an angle longitudinally, the angle being, for example, 30 degrees. As a result, the food inlet may have a varying offset along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Advantageously, such a shape may assist in transmitting the food items into the tubular retaining portion.

Preferably, the spill resistant item of cutlery further comprises an air vent. In preferable embodiments, the air vent or hole is arranged to allow air to exit the retaining portion cavity as food is entering. Advantageously, the air vent reduces the potential build-up of pressure that would otherwise oppose food items entering the retaining portion cavity. In further preferred embodiments, the air vent is arranged in fluid communication with the tubular retaining portion cavity. Advantageously, such an embodiment allows for the tubular retaining portion cavity to be easily cleaned as cleaning fluids are able to enter the retaining portion cavity via the food inlet and exit via the air vent or vice versa.

In some embodiments, the air vent may comprise a valve configured to alternate the air vent between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

Preferably, the air vent is proximate the posterior end of the tubular retaining portion such that the air vent opposes the food inlet. The air vent can be located at other locations along the gripping portion or handle of the feeding device or spoon.

In some embodiments, the shape of the air vent is ovular. In further embodiments, the shape of the air vent is circular, square, rectangular or any other shape that suitably allows for the air vent's function.

In some embodiments, the air vent extends in an angled orientation. That is, the air vent extends at an angle, relative to the longitudinal axis, from the tubular retaining portion to an exterior. Preferably, the angle is between 15° and 75°. Preferably, the angle of air vent is greater than the angle of the food inlet. Consequently, food items may be less likely to stick to, and block the air vent. Alternatively, the air vent may extend from the anterior end of the tubular retaining portion to the posterior end of the tubular retaining portion such.

In some embodiments, the spill resistant item of cutlery further comprises a cuff proximate the air vent. Preferably, the cuff comprises an indent configured to allow air flow between the air vent and an exterior. Preferably, the cuff comprises a depth configured, in use, to allow air flow between the air vent and the exterior. Advantageously, the cuff may prevent a build-up of negative pressure when a user applies suction to the spill resistant item of cutlery. Further advantageously, the cuff may provide an increased robustness to the spill resistant item of cutlery. Alternatively, the spill resistant item of cutlery may comprise a flange configured to envelop a portion of the outer surface of the spill resistant item of cutlery.

In further embodiments, the tubular retaining portion comprises an upper portion and a lower portion. Preferably, the upper portion is separated from the lower portion by a pair of opposing longitudinally extending indents. Preferably, the indents extend from the anterior end of the tubular retaining portion to the posterior end of the tubular retaining portion. Additional embodiments exist wherein the indents partially extend from the anterior end to the posterior end. Additional embodiments exist wherein there are a plurality of longitudinal indents. Advantageously, the pair of opposing indents may allow for an expansion of the tubular retaining portion, thereby allowing for a larger volume of foodstuff to be accommodated.

n some embodiments, the tubular retaining portion comprises a longitudinally extending tine. The tine may advantageously increase the surface area in contact with a food item present in the tubular retaining portion, thereby increasing the surface adhesion and increasing the likelihood that the food items are retained in the tubular retaining portion.

Preferably, the tine protrudes from the posterior end and extends to the anterior end. Preferably, the tine extends longitudinally along a centre of the cross-sectional shape of the tubular retaining portion. Alternatively, the tine may extend longitudinally along any position of the cross-sectional shape.

In some embodiments, the tine extends half of a length of the tubular retaining portion such that a tip of the tine is proximate a center of the tubular retaining portion. Alternatively, the tine may extend any length of the tubular retaining portion.

The tine may be tubular in shape such that the tine substantially matches the shape of the tubular retaining portion. A radius of the tine may decrease from a base of the tine to the tip of the tine. Other embodiments exist wherein the tine has any shape suitable for providing a surface area.

Preferably, the gripping portion further comprises an inner handle gripping portion and an outer gripping portion.

Preferably, the outer gripping portion encompasses the inner gripping portion.

In preferable embodiments, the gripping portion comprises the same material as the tubular retaining portion. Alternatively, the gripping portion comprises a different material.

Preferably, the gripping portion further comprises: a food retaining cavity comprising: a cavity volume; an anterior end; and a posterior end.

In some embodiments, the inner handle portion and the tine constitute a single unified structure. The unified structure may comprise a base proximate the posterior end of the gripping portion. The unified structure may extend longitudinally from the gripping portion to the tubular retaining portion. Advantageously, the unified structure may be more robust and may be more straightforward to manufacture than if the tine were separate.

Preferably, the inner handle portion comprises the food retaining cavity. In this way, the food retaining cavity may be encompassed by the inner handle portion.

In a preferable embodiment, the food retaining cavity and the tubular retaining portion are provided in fluid communication. In this way, food stuff stored in the food retaining cavity may be transported to the retaining portion cavity.

Preferably, the tubular retaining portion further comprises a first connection portion proximate the anterior end of the tubular retaining portion. Further preferably, the food retaining cavity further comprises a second connection portion proximate the anterior end of the food retaining cavity. In this way, the first connection portion and the second connection portion connect to facilitate the fluid communication between the tubular retaining portion and the food retaining cavity.

Preferably, the tubular retaining portion comprises an attachment means, wherein the attachment means is configured to facilitate the attachment and detachment of the tubular retaining portion from the gripping portion.

In some embodiments, the attachment means may be a screw closure. In this way, the tubular retaining portion may be attached to the gripping portion by twisting the tubular retaining portion about the screw closure.

Further embodiments exist wherein the attachment means is any attachment means suitable for facilitating the attachment of the tubular retaining portion to the gripping portion.

In some embodiments, the gripping portion further comprises a food loading conduit proximate the posterior end of the food retaining cavity, arranged to facilitate the loading of food into the food retaining cavity. In this way, food may be added to the food retaining cavity without detaching the tubular retaining portion.

Further embodiments exist wherein the food loading conduit is proximate any suitable part of the food retaining cavity suitable for facilitating the loading of food into the food retaining cavity.

Preferably, the food loading conduit is sealable. In this way, the food stuff may be loaded into the food retaining cavity and may be unable to exit the food retaining cavity via the food loading conduit.

In preferable embodiments, the inner handle portion is made of a rigid material such that the inner handle portion comprises a first material and the outer gripping portion comprises a second material, wherein preferably the rigidity of the first material is greater than the rigidity of the second material.

Preferably, the first material is compressible. In this way, the cavity volume may be altered and as a result, the food stuff present in the food retaining cavity may be expelled into the tubular retaining portion via the first connection portion and the second connection portion.

Preferably, the second material comprises a flexible material. In some embodiments, the second material is the same as the tubular retaining portion material. Additional embodiments will be appreciated by the skilled addressee wherein the second material comprises a different material to that of the tubular retaining portion material. Advantageously, the gripping portion is resistant to shear stress that may be introduced by a user of the spill resistant item of cutlery accelerating or decelerating the spill resistant item of cutlery.

The above embodiments have been described with the tubular retaining portion having a single retaining portion cavity. However, additional embodiments may be envisaged wherein the tubular retaining portion comprises a plurality of retaining portion cavities. Each retaining portion cavity may be substantially similar. Alternatively, each retaining portion cavity may be distinct. In such an embodiment, the retaining portion cavities may share the same food inlet. Alternatively, the retaining portion cavities may each comprise a food inlet. Similarly, the retaining portion cavities may share the same air vent or may each comprise an air vent. Similarly, the retaining portion cavities may each comprise a tine. Said plurality of retaining portion cavities may advantageously improve food retention of the device.

Additional embodiments may be envisaged wherein the spill resistant item of cutlery comprises a plurality of air vents. Alternatively, the spill resistant item of cutlery may comprise no air vents.

In an embodiment the spill resistant item of cutlery is arranged such that the tubular retaining portion terminates adjacent to the inner handle portion for a compact arrangement and ease of grip location for the user, whether the user is a carer or an infant or adult self-feeding.

BRIEF DESCRITPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the detailed description herein, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. The drawings are only for purposes of illustrating preferred embodiments and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure. It is emphasized that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion. The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a side sectional view of a spill resistant item of cutlery, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the spill resistant item of cutlery of FIG. 1 showing the detail of an air vent, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the spill resistant item of cutlery of FIG. 1, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is an end view of the spill resistant item of cutlery of FIG. 1 illustrating the opening into the device and cavity, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5A is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a spill resistant item of cutlery having a balloon shaped tubular retaining portion, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5B is an end view of an alternative embodiment of a spill resistant item of cutlery having an elevated rib, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5C is a side sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a spill resistant item of cutlery having a tine, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5D is a top view of an alternative embodiment of a spill resistant item of cutlery that includes a cuff, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a side sectional view of the spill resistant item of cutlery of FIG. 5D having a food retaining cavity, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a side sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a spill resistant item of cutlery that includes a detachable tubular retaining portion, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 8 is a lateral view of another alternative embodiment of a spill resistant item of cutlery, in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

When introducing elements of various embodiments of the present invention, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements. Any examples of parameters are not exclusive of other parameters of the disclosed embodiments. Components, aspects, features, configurations, arrangements, uses and the like described, illustrated or otherwise disclosed herein with respect to any particular embodiment may similarly be applied to any other embodiment disclosed herein.

Referring to FIG. 1, a spill resistant item of cutlery, or spoon, 100 is shown. The spill resistant item of cutlery 100 having a longitudinal axis extending therethrough and as illustrated in FIG. 1. The device 100 comprises a housing, a tubular retaining portion 101 proximate a first end of the housing or longitudinally extending elongate member. The elongate member has a gripping portion 106 proximate a second end opposing the first end. The device features the tubular retaining portion 101 comprising an interior retaining surface 104 defining a retaining portion cavity 103. The tubular retaining portion further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity 103.

The spoon or spill resistant item of cutlery 100 includes an air vent 102 located in the vicinity of the tubular retaining portion 101 and foodstuff retaining portion of the device, at an angle providing air flow communication in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spill resistant item of cutlery 100. In the illustrated embodiment the air vent 102 is a circular hole of substantially equal diameter through the material comprising the tubular retaining portion 101 to the interior retaining surface 104 and through to the retaining portion cavity 103.

FIG. 2 shows the gripping portion 106 that comprises the components of a central inner handle gripping portion 105 surrounded and enveloped in an outer gripping portion 106 in FIG. 2. The combined apparatus of the inner handle gripping portion 105 surrounded and encompassed by the outer gripping portion 106 should be of one body such that the user can operate and manipulate the handle as one tool. In the embodiment shown, the inner handle gripping portion 105 is made of a rigid material such as a metal or hard plastic, with the outer gripping portion 106 comprising a softer, less rigid second material, such as a flexible plastic or rubber. The outer gripping portion 106 may feature an ergonomic design and shape for ease of operation and handling. There may be alternative sizes and shapes for different skills and sizes of user. In addition, and as illustrated in FIG. 3, the second end of the spill resistant item of cutlery 100 is rounded and smoothed to provide a safe and non-damage inflicting surface. The rounded end is arranged to provide an ergonomic handle that is inviting to use and also provides no sharp edges or end which could cause damage while being used and operated at a table or feeding area.

With reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, the interior of the tubular retaining portion 101 is shown. The tubular retaining portion 101, as illustrated, is broadly cylindrical in shape. The tubular retaining portion 101 is open at one end, the so called food inlet F. The tubular retaining portion 101 is such that it defines a retaining portion cavity 103 bounded by an interior retaining surface 104. The material of the entire portion 101 in the example here is silicone, durable, safe and flexible. The material should be food safe, suitable for cleaning and drying, suitable for human and animal contact and durable and hard wearing, suitable for repeated use, wear and cleaning. For institutional settings and mass use the requirements for the material and the structure to withstand industrial cleaning and drying should also be considered.

In alternative embodiments, an upper portion of the tubular retaining portion 101 may comprise a first material and a lower portion of the tubular retaining portion 101 may comprise a second material. The first material may be silicone and the second material may be plastic such that the first material is more flexible than the second material.

In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 4, the interior retaining surface 104 can be seen to comprise a plurality of elevations or ribs 104. As set out previously, the rib structures are arranged so as to maximise surface adhesion between a food stuff or puree present in the tubular retaining portion and the interior retaining surface 104. The illustrated example in FIGS. 1 and 4 shows a series of abutting parallel longitudinal protrusions or ribs, extending along the interior retaining surface 104 in a direction parallel and longitudinal relative to the longitudinal axis of the spill resistant item of cutlery 100. In other embodiments, the plurality of protrusions may comprise a plurality of protrusions extending in any direction along the interior retaining surface. The protrusions or elevations may be set alongside or abutting each other, or may be spaced apart from the next elevation or rib.

In use the spill resistant item of cutlery 100 is held and gripped by the user at the gripping portion 106 and the tubular retaining portion is dipped into a bowl or other container of food stuff, or is otherwise loaded with a food stuff (for example a puree or a soft food). The food stuff enters the retaining portion cavity 103 at F and the air previously occupying the volume of the cavity 103 is expelled and urged out of the air vent 102. The food stuff adheres and surrounds the interior retaining surface 104. In particular the food stuff sticks to and engages with the ribs 104 of the interior retaining surface 104. The surface adhesion of the ribs and the food stuff is sufficient to retain the food stuff, within the tubular retaining portion 101, as the user moves the spill resistant item of cutlery 100 from the bowl towards the mouth. The surface adhesion of the ribs and the food stuff is sufficient to retain the food stuff, within the tubular retaining portion 101, during any sudden movement such as a jerking or playing movement or a distracted movement. Once the user places the spill resistant item of cutlery 100 to their mouth or the mouth of the subject, the person or animal to be fed, then the food is released into the mouth by a sucking or suckling action or otherwise mouthing at the tubular retaining portion 101. The food stuff previously occupying the volume of the cavity 103 moves into the mouth of the subject and air replaces the volume removed through incoming air in through the air vent 102. The loading and feeding operation can then be repeated. When in the mouth and squeezed by the lips and or tongue, food may be evacuated from the cavity 103 via both the open end and via the air vent 102, thus the bolus of food is released into the mouth.

After use, the tubular feeding portion can be cleaned and washed. In some embodiments (not illustrated) the spill resistant item of cutlery 100 can be separated into its component parts for washing, deep cleaning or sterilising.

Turning now to FIG. 5A, a top view of a spill resistant item of cutlery 300 is shown in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

The spill resistant item of cutlery, or spoon, 300 is substantially similar to the spoon 100 in that the spoon 300 comprises a housing, a tubular retaining portion 301 proximate a first end of the housing or longitudinally extending elongate member. The elongate member comprises a gripping portion 306 proximate a second end opposing the first end. The spoon features the tubular retaining portion 301 comprising an interior retaining surface 304 defining a retaining portion cavity. The tubular retaining portion further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity.

The spoon 300 includes an air vent 302 located in the vicinity of the tubular retaining portion 301 and foodstuff retaining portion of the device, at an angle providing air flow communication in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spill resistant item of cutlery 300. In the illustrated embodiment the air vent 302 is a circular hole of substantially equal diameter through the material comprising the tubular retaining portion 301 to the interior retaining surface 304 and through to the retaining portion cavity.

The tubular retaining portion 301 further comprises a width. In the illustrated embodiment of the spoon 300, the width varies along the longitudinal axis. The radius increases along a first portion of the longitudinal axis and decreases along second portion of the longitudinal axis such that the tubular retaining portion 301 is tear-drop or balloon shaped. The retaining portion cavity substantially matches the shape of the tubular retaining portion 301.

In a further alternative embodiment, FIG. 5B shows an end view of a spill resistant item of cutlery 400 in accordance with this alternative embodiment of the present invention.

The spill resistant item of cutlery, or spoon, 400 is substantially similar to the spoon 100 in that the spoon 400 comprises a housing, a tubular retaining portion 401 proximate a first end of the housing or longitudinally extending elongate member. The elongate member comprises a gripping portion (not shown) proximate a second end opposing the first end. The spoon features the tubular retaining portion 401 comprising an interior retaining surface 404 defining a retaining portion cavity 403. The tubular retaining portion further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity 403.

The spoon 400 includes an air vent (not shown) located in the vicinity of the tubular retaining portion 401 and foodstuff retaining portion of the device, at an angle providing air flow communication in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spill resistant item of cutlery 400.

The tubular retaining portion 401 is broadly cylindrical in shape and comprises a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. The tubular retaining portion 401, as illustrated, is open at one end, the so called food inlet F. The tubular retaining portion 401 is such that it defines a retaining portion cavity 403 bounded by an interior retaining surface 404. The interior retaining surface 404 can be seen to comprise a plurality of elevations or ribs 404. The plurality of ribs 404 are a series of abutting parallel longitudinal protrusions or ribs, extending along the interior retaining surface 404 in a direction parallel and longitudinal relative to the longitudinal axis of the spoon 400.

As shown in FIG. 4, a rib 406 of the ribs 404 comprises a height substantially greater than a height of the ribs 404. That is, the rib 406 protrudes further towards a central longitudinal axis of the tubular retaining portion than the ribs 404. Alternative embodiments exist, wherein the rib 406 extends towards an axis offset from the central longitudinal axis. The illustrated rib 406 comprises a height greater than a radius of the circular cross-sectional shape of the tubular retaining portion 401. Embodiments may be envisaged, wherein the height is less than the radius of the cross section. Further embodiments may be envisaged wherein the height of the rib 406 varies along the longitudinal axis. The surface area of the interior retaining surface 404 is further increased, thereby increasing the surface adhesion and further increasing the bias for food items to remain within the tubular retaining portion 401.

There may be a plurality of ribs 406, wherein each may protrude towards the same, or different longitudinal axes. The ribs 406 may each comprise a different, or the same height.

With reference to FIG. 5C, a side sectional view of a spill resistant item of cutlery 500 in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown.

The spill resistant item of cutlery 500, or spoon 500, is substantially similar to the spoon 100 in that the spoon 500 comprises a housing, a tubular retaining portion 501 proximate a first end of the housing or longitudinally extending elongate member. The elongate member comprises a gripping portion 506 proximate a second end opposing the first end. The gripping portion 506 comprises the components of a central inner handle gripping portion 505 surrounded and enveloped in an outer gripping portion 506.

The spoon also features the tubular retaining portion 501 comprising an interior retaining surface 504 defining a retaining portion cavity 503. The tubular retaining portion further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity 503.

The spoon 500 includes an air vent 502 located in the vicinity of the tubular retaining portion 501 and foodstuff retaining portion of the device, at an angle providing air flow communication in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spill resistant item of cutlery 500. As shown in FIG. 5C, the air vent 502 is a circular or like hole of substantially equal diameter through the material comprising the tubular retaining portion 501 to the interior retaining surface 504 and through to the retaining portion cavity 503.

The tubular retaining portion 501 comprises a volume having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape that has a radius.

The spoon 500 further comprises a longitudinally extending tine 508. The tine 508 extends from an anterior end of the inner handle gripping portion 505 such that the tine 508 and the inner gripping portion 505 constitute a single unified structure 508 protruding from a posterior end of the tubular retaining portion 501 and extending towards an anterior end of the tubular retaining portion 501. Preferably, the tine 508 extends longitudinally along a center of the cross-sectional shape of the tubular retaining portion 501. Alternatively, the tine 508 may extend longitudinally along any position of the cross-sectional shape.

In the embodiment disclosed, the tine 508 extends half of a length of the tubular retaining portion 501 such that a tip of the tine is proximate a center of the tubular retaining portion 501. Alternatively, the tine may extend any length of the tubular retaining portion.

The tine 508 is tubular in shape such that the tine 508 substantially matches the shape of the tubular retaining portion 501. A radius of the tine may decrease from a base of the tine to the tip of the tine. Other embodiments exist, wherein the tine has any shape suitable for providing a surface area.

FIG. 5D shows a top view of a spill resistant item of cutlery 600 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention comprising a cuff.

The spill resistant item of cutlery 600, or spoon 600, is substantially similar to the spoon 100 in that the spoon 600 comprises a housing, a tubular retaining portion 601 proximate a first end of the housing or longitudinally extending elongate member. The elongate member comprises a gripping portion 606 proximate a second end opposing the first end. The gripping portion 606 comprises the components of a central inner handle gripping portion (not shown) surrounded and enveloped in an outer gripping portion 606

The spoon also features the tubular retaining portion 601 comprising an interior retaining surface 604 defining a retaining portion cavity 603. The tubular retaining portion further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity 603.

The spoon 600 includes an air vent 602 located in the vicinity of the tubular retaining portion 601 and foodstuff retaining portion of the device, at an angle providing air flow communication in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spill resistant item of cutlery 600. In the illustrated embodiment, the air vent 602 is a circular-like hole of substantially equal diameter through the material comprising the tubular retaining portion 601 to the interior retaining surface 604 and through to the retaining portion cavity 603.

The tubular retaining portion 601 comprises a volume having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape having a radius.

The spoon 600 further comprises a cuff 612. The cuff 612 is cylindrical in shape and comprises a hollow center such that a cross section of the cuff 612 is annular. The cuff 612 envelops a portion of an outer surface of the spoon 600. The cuff 612 comprises an indent 614 substantially similar in shape to the air vent 602. The indent 614 is positioned such that air flow is possible between the air vent and the exterior. The cuff 612 further comprises a depth extending orthogonally from the exterior surface of the spoon.

In some embodiments, the cuff 612 is rotatable. In such an embodiment, rotating the cuff 612 between a first position and a second position allows for the air vent 602 to be substantially covered in the first position and substantially uncovered in the second position.

In an alternative embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 6, there is shown a side sectional view of a spill resistant item of cutlery 700 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment shown in FIG. 6 is substantially similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, but differs in that the gripping portion 702 is a pouch 702 comprising food retaining cavity 704. The food retaining cavity 704, which is substantially cylindrical in shape, comprises a cavity volume, a posterior end 706 and an anterior end 708. Proximate to the posterior end 706 of the food retaining cavity 704, there is a second connection portion 710. Proximate the anterior end 708 of the food retaining cavity 704, there is a food loading conduit 712, configured to facilitate the loading of food stuff into the food retaining cavity 704. The food loading conduit 712 is sealable such that it does not allow food stuff to escape the food retaining cavity 706 via the food loading conduit 712. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the pouch 702 is made of a compressible material.

Further, in the embodiment shown on FIG. 6, a tubular retaining portion 720 is shown, substantially similar to the tubular retaining portion 101 as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4. The tubular retaining portion 720 comprises a first connection portion 722 proximate a retaining portion cavity 724. Both connection portions 722, 710 are substantially tubular in shape and extend along the longitudinal axis of their respective housings 702, 724. The first connection portion 722 is aligned with the second connection portion 710 such that a channel is formed between the connection portions 710, 722 so as to facilitate fluid communication between the retaining portion cavity 724 and the food retaining cavity 704.

In use, the food retaining cavity is filled with food stuff (for example a puree or a soft food) via the food loading conduit 712 by, for example, pouring the food stuff into the food loading conduit 712. The food loading conduit 712 is then sealed such that the food stuff cannot escape the food retaining cavity 704 via the food loading conduit 712. The gripping portion 702 is then squeezed, resulting in the compression of the food cavity 704. Said compression leads to the cavity volume of the food retaining cavity 704 decreasing, thereby reducing the volume to surface area ratio of the food retaining cavity 704. As a result, a volume of food stuff is ejected from the food retaining cavity 704 equal to the reduction in food retaining cavity volume (assuming the food stuff occupied the full volume of the food retaining cavity). The food stuff is ejected via the second connection portion 710 and the first connection portion 722, into the retaining portion cavity 724, due to the fluid communication between the food retaining cavity 704 and retaining portion cavity 724.

The food stuff enters the tubular retaining portion 720 and the air previously occupying the volume of the cavity 724 is expelled and urged out of an exit hole 726 and an air vent 728. The food stuff adheres and surrounds the interior retaining surface of the cavity 724. In particular the food stuff sticks to and engages with the ribs 730 of the interior retaining surface. The surface adhesion of the ribs 730 and the food stuff is sufficient to retain the food stuff, within the tubular retaining portion 720, as the user moves the spill resistant item of cutlery 700 towards the mouth. The surface adhesion of the ribs 730 and the food stuff is sufficient to retain the food stuff, within the tubular retaining portion 720, during any sudden movement such as a jerking or playing movement or a distracted movement. Once the user places the spill resistant item of cutlery 700 to their mouth or the mouth of the subject, the person or animal to be fed, then the food is released into the mouth by a sucking or suckling action or otherwise mouthing at the tubular retaining portion 720. The food stuff previously occupying the volume of the cavity 724 moves into the mouth of the subject and air replaces the volume removed through incoming air in through the air vent 728. The loading and feeding operation can then be repeated. When in the mouth and squeezed by the lips and/or tongue, food may be evacuated from the cavity 724 via both the exit hole 726 and via the air vent 728, thus the bolus of food is released into the front of the mouth.

With reference to FIG. 7, shown is another alternative embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, wherein the tubular retaining portion 820 is detachable from the pouch 802. In the embodiment shown, the pouch 802 and the tubular retaining portion 820 are separated. Within the first connection portion 822 of the tubular retaining portion 820, there is an internal helical thread 902. Surrounding the second connection portion 810 of the pouch 802, there is an external screw thread 904 configured to engage with the internal helical thread 902.

In use, the second connection portion 810 is positioned inside the first connection portion 822 and a torque is applied by twisting the tubular retaining portion 820 (or by twisting the pouch 802). The internal helical thread 902 engages with the external screw thread 904, causing the tubular retaining portion 820 to attach to the pouch 802.

In a further embodiment (not shown), the gripping portion comprises a seal proximate the second connecting portion. In this way, the seal stops any food stuff contained within the food retaining cavity escaping via the second connecting portion when the gripping portion and the tubular retaining portion are unattached. The tubular retaining portion comprises a piercing member proximate the first connecting portion, configured to pierce the seal of the gripping portion following the attachment of the tubular retaining portion to the gripping portion. In this way, the attachment process may allow fluid communication between the tubular retaining portion and the gripping portion.

FIG. 8 is a lateral view of a further example of a spill resistant item of cutlery 900. The spill resistant item of cutlery 900 has no air vent and is substantially similar to the spill resistant feeding item of cutlery 100 (See FIG. 1) in shape and outer construction.

The device 900 comprises a substantially tubular silicone outer portion 910 and a tubular retaining portion 901 proximate a first end of the outer portion 910. The outer portion 910 has a gripping portion 906 proximate a second end opposing the first end. The device 900 features the tubular retaining portion 901 comprising an interior retaining surface 904 defining a retaining portion cavity 903. The tubular retaining portion further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity 903. The outer portion 910 further comprises an annular protrusion 912, creating a passage 913.

The device 900 further comprises an inner portion 914 extending along an interior of the outer portion 910. The inner portion 914 comprises for example, a more rigid material than the outer portion 910 so as to provide support to the more flexible outer portion 910. The inner portion comprises a head portion 916, a neck portion 918 and a base portion 920. The head portion 916 comprises a plurality of grooves or indents 917. A maximum width of the head portion is greater than a width of the passage 913, but less than a width of the tubular retaining portion 901. Adjacent to the head portion 916, the inner portion 914 comprises the neck portion 918. The neck portion 918 comprises a neck width that is less than the width of the passage 913. Adjacent to the neck portion 918, and opposing the head portion 916, the inner portion 914 comprises the base portion 920. The base portion 920 extends longitudinally from the neck portion 918 to a posterior end of the inner portion 914. A width of the base portion 920 increases along the longitudinal axis.

In use, the inner portion 914 and the outer portion 910 may be connected/disconnected. Connecting or inserting may be achieved by a press-fit, push fit or a bayonet type fitting. That is, for example, the flexibility of the outer portion 910 allows for the head portion 916 to push through to a connected or disconnected configuration.

In the connected configuration, the grooves 917 create channels between the inner portion 914 and the outer portion 910. The channels allow airflow out of the tubular retaining portion, thereby preventing a build-up of negative pressure. The channels comprise a resistance that is great enough to inhibit food items from passing through the channels.

It will be appreciated that the above described embodiments are given by way of example only and that various modifications thereto may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the embodiments described relate to a particular structure as illustrated however additional embodiments will be appreciated wherein the feeding device is another channel arrangement with various shapes, novelty or shaped structural features so as to encourage infant and assisted feeding. The embodiment described relating to the helical thread and screw thread attachment means may be any attachment means suitable for facilitating the attachment of the pouch to the tubular retaining portion. Any other threads or fits such as a push fit or a friction fit are possible. Additional embodiments exist wherein the first connection portion comprises the external helical screw thread and the second connection portion comprises the internal helical thread. The embodiment discussed is related to one type of infant feeding but other age groups or functions or clinical or indeed veterinary uses may be found for the feeding device. The shape and structure may be modified for different grips, needs and foodstuffs. The invention may comprise the tubular retaining portion 101 only such that the tubular retaining portion 101 alone could be used independently of the handle and gripping portion.

It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Numerous changes and modifications may be made herein by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the general spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following claims and the equivalents thereof. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the various embodiments without departing from their scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the various embodiments, they are by no means limiting and are merely exemplary. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the various embodiments should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms “including” and “in which” are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms “comprising” and “wherein.” Moreover, in the following claims, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third,” etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Also, the term “operably connected” is used herein to refer to both connections resulting from separate, distinct components being directly or indirectly coupled and components being integrally formed (i.e., monolithic). Further, the limitations of the following claims are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph, unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase “means for” followed by a statement of function void of further structure. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such objects or advantages described above may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the devices described herein may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

While the invention has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the invention is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, while various embodiments of the invention have been described, it is to be understood that aspects of the disclosure may include only some of the described embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description, but is only limited by the scope of the appended claims.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A spill resistant item of cutlery, the spill resistant item of cutlery comprising:

a longitudinally extending elongate member comprising; a tubular retaining portion proximate a first end thereof; and a gripping portion proximate a second end opposing the first end;

wherein the tubular retaining portion comprises an interior retaining surface defining a retaining portion cavity, and

wherein the tubular retaining portion further comprises a food inlet in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity.

2. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the interior retaining surface comprises a plurality of elevations.

3. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 2, wherein the plurality of elevations is configured in a rib-like pattern.

4. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 2, wherein the plurality of elevations comprises a plurality of longitudinal ribs.

5. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 2, wherein each of the one or more of the plurality of elevations comprise a height.

6. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the food inlet is proximate an anterior end of the tubular retaining portion.

7. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the food inlet is arranged to facilitate loading of food or removal of food.

8. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the tubular retaining portion comprises a cross sectional shape having a radius varying along a longitudinal axis.

9. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the food inlet extends at an angle along the tubular retaining portion.

10. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the food inlet comprises a circumference.

11. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the spill resistant item of cutlery further comprises an air vent.

12. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 11, wherein the air vent is proximate a posterior end of the tubular retaining portion.

13. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 9, wherein the air vent comprises a circular, ovular or slit shaped opening.

14. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 9, wherein the air vent is arranged to allow air to exit the tubular retaining portion.

15. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 9, wherein the air vent extends at an angle, from the tubular retaining portion to an exterior, along the longitudinal axis.

16. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the tubular retaining portion comprises a longitudinally extending tine.

17. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the gripping portion comprises:

an inner handle portion; and

an outer gripping portion.

18. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the gripping portion further comprises:

a food retaining cavity comprising:

a cavity volume;

an anterior end; and

a posterior end.

19. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 17, wherein the inner handle portion comprises the food retaining cavity.

20. The spill resistant item of cutlery of as claimed in claim 18, wherein the food retaining cavity and the retaining portion cavity are provided in fluid communication.

21. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the tubular retaining portion further comprises a first connection portion proximate the anterior end of the tubular retaining portion.

22. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 18, wherein the food retaining cavity further comprises a second connection portion proximate the anterior end of the food retaining cavity.

23. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the tubular retaining portion further comprises an attachment means, wherein the attachment means is configured to facilitate the attachment and detachment of the tubular retaining portion from the gripping portion.

24. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 23, wherein the gripping portion further comprises a food loading conduit proximate the posterior end of the food retaining cavity, wherein the food loading conduit is configured to facilitate the loading of food into the food retaining cavity.

25. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 17, wherein the inner handle portion comprises a first material and the outer gripping portion comprises a second material, and wherein the rigidity of the first material is greater than the rigidity of the second material.

26. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 25, wherein the first material is compressible.

27. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, wherein the tubular retaining portion is at least partially made of a flexible material.

28. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 25, wherein the outer gripping portion is made of a flexible material.

29. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 27, wherein the tubular retaining portion terminates adjacent to the inner handle portion.

30. The spill resistant item of cutlery of claim 1, comprising a plurality of tubular retaining portions.