CN105813955A - Beverage container with recessed top and method of using same - Google Patents

Abstract

A beverage container is provided comprising a main body having an open top and a closed bottom, an inner, rounded rim, and on an inner surface thereof positioned adjacent the rim at a first height The first set of threads. The edge includes a downwardly depending portion extending below the first set of threads. The container also includes a removable lid having a bottom, a generally cylindrical sidewall, an annular flange extending outwardly from the generally cylindrical sidewall, and an annular collar. The collar, the annular flange, and the sidewall define a first channel that receives the edge, and the base and the generally cylindrical sidewall cooperate to define a lid cavity. The sidewall includes a second set of threads on an outer surface thereof cooperatively engaged with the first set of threads.

Description

Beverage container with depressed top and method of use thereof

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/968,274, filed March 20, 2014, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/916,049, filed December 13, 2013, and is a U.S. Continuation-in-Part of Patent Application No. 13/669,363, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

technical field

The present invention relates to beverage containers, and more particularly to beverage containers having a recessed top and methods of using the same.

Background technique

To keep the beverage cold after opening the can, users often have to pour the contents into a cup or glass with ice in it or place the non-intact can in a cooler or freezer, risking spillage . This can be inconvenient for the user and promotes waste generation as it requires the use of material for the can as well as the material for the cup or the use of soap and water to clean the non-disposable glassware.

Contents of the invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a beverage container comprising a cylindrical body portion having an open top and a closed bottom and defining an interior. The bottom includes contact surfaces and a continuous concave non-contact portion extending between the contact surfaces. The cylindrical body portion defines a first volume. The container also includes a removable lid positioned at a location between the bottom and the top, and a recess defined between the removable lid and the open top. The recess defines a second volume that is between about 5% and about 50% of the first volume. In a preferred embodiment, the cylindrical body portion comprises a rim arranged adjacent to the top, wherein the diameter of the rim is greater than or equal to the diameter of the top of the cylindrical body portion. Preferably, the non-contact portion does not include a convex portion. However, this is not a limitation of the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment, the cylindrical body portion includes a lug disposed on an inner surface thereof defining at least one notch therein. The removable cover includes at least one tab sized to pass through the slot. In the closed position, at least a portion of the projection extends below the lug. The removable cover includes a cylindrical wall extending upwardly therefrom and a handle extending between opposing walls of the cylindrical wall. In another embodiment, the removable cover includes a ring and a fully removable cover. In another embodiment, the cylindrical body portion includes threads on an inner surface thereof, and the removable cap includes a cylindrical wall extending upwardly therefrom, the outer surface of the cylindrical wall being threaded, The threads cooperatively engage threads on the cylindrical body portion, and the cylindrical body portion includes lugs disposed on an inner surface thereof. A removable cover is in sealing relationship with the upper surface of the lug. In another embodiment, the removable cover includes a tab and a cover stay, and the tab includes a pull and a stem that engages the cover stay. In a preferred embodiment, the removable cap is positioned such that a standard amount of beverage can fill the first volume below the removable cap, and the second volume or recess is at least 20 mL.

In a preferred embodiment, the removable cover further includes a secondary container including a removable cover associated therewith. Preferably, the cylindrical body portion contains a first beverage and the secondary container contains a second beverage, the first and second beverages being separated by a removable cover.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method comprising providing a beverage container comprising: a cylindrical body portion having an open top, a closed bottom and an interior defining a first volume a removable cover at a location between the bottom and the open top; and a recess defined between the removable cover and the top of the cylindrical body portion, the recess defining a second volume. The beverage container includes a first beverage disposed therein, the first beverage filling a third volume below the removable lid. The method also includes removing the removable lid and placing a second beverage inside such that the first beverage and the second beverage fill the third volume and fill at least a portion of the second volume.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a beverage container comprising a main body portion having an open top and a closed bottom, an interior, a rounded edge and a first set of threads on an inner surface thereof , a first set of threads is positioned at a first height adjacent to the edge. The edge includes a downwardly depending portion extending below the first set of threads. The container also includes a removable lid having a bottom, a generally cylindrical sidewall, an annular flange extending outwardly from the generally cylindrical sidewall, and an annular collar. The collar, annular flange, and sidewall define a first channel that receives the edge, and the bottom and generally cylindrical sidewall cooperate to define a lid cavity. The sidewall includes a second set of threads on an outer surface thereof cooperatively engaged with the first set of threads.

In a preferred embodiment, the collar and annular flange define a second channel opposite the first channel, and the removable cover can be inverted from a home position where the rim is received in the first channel to an inverted position such that The fringes are received in the second channel. Preferably, the collar is dimensioned such that when the removable cover is in the inverted position, the collar provides a friction, pressure or interference fit on top of the main body portion. In another preferred embodiment, the generally cylindrical side wall includes a third set of threads that cooperatively engages the first set of threads when the removable cover is in the inverted position.

In a preferred embodiment, the removable cover is movable from a home position in which the rim is received in the first channel to a bottom position in which the bottom of the body portion is received in the cover cavity, and wherein the generally cylindrical side wall is positioned Dimensioned to provide a friction fit, press fit or interference fit with the main body portion at the bottom location. In a preferred embodiment, the container includes a recess defined between the bottom of the removable lid and the open top of the main body portion. Preferably, the recess defines a second volume that is between about 5% and about 50% of the first volume.

In a preferred embodiment, the first set of threads is positioned at a first height, the downwardly depending portion of the edge includes a bottom edge positioned at a second height, and the first height is greater than the second height. Preferably, the removable cover is sealed relative to the main body in both the home position and the inverted position. In a preferred embodiment, the removable cover includes a removable cover covering the cover cavity and defining a cover interior, and the item is positioned within the cover interior.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method comprising providing a beverage container having a main body portion having an open top, a closed bottom and defining an interior defining a first volume. Beverages are placed inside. The beverage container also includes a removable lid that is removably engaged with the main body portion in the original position. The removable cover includes a base and a generally cylindrical sidewall extending upwardly from the base, and the base and the generally cylindrical sidewall define a cover cavity. The method includes removing the removable cap from the cylindrical body portion and placing the removable cap on the cylindrical body portion in an inverted position where the cap cavity is not positioned in the recess. In a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises placing at least one additive therein prior to placing the lid on the body portion in the inverted position, and shaking the beverage container after placing the lid on the body portion in the inverted position .

In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: removing the removable cover from the main body part when the removable cover is in the home position or the inverted position, and placing the removable cover on the bottom of the main body part Instead, the bottom of the body portion is received in the lid cavity. In a preferred embodiment, the beverage container includes a recess defined between the bottom of the removable lid and the top of the main body portion. The recess defines a second volume, and the cover cavity is located within the recess when the removable cover is disposed in the home position and is not located within the recess when the removable cover is disposed in the inverted position. Preferably, the second volume is between about 5% and about 50% of the first volume.

In a preferred embodiment, the step of removing the cover from the original position includes disengaging the second set of threads on the removable cover from the first set of threads. The step of removing the removable cover on the main body portion in the inverted position also preferably includes engaging a third set of threads on the removable cover with the first set of threads.

In a preferred embodiment, the method comprises exposing the drinking opening on the bottom of the removable cover after removing the removable cover. This step can be done before or after placing the lid in the inverted position. It will be appreciated that exposing the drinking opening can be accomplished, for example, by pulling, hinged or otherwise moving the tab away from the bottom of the lid. In an exemplary use, an empty beverage container can be provided with the lid in place. The lid is removed, the drink is poured, and then the lid can be put back on the main body in an inverted position and the drinking opening can then be exposed. Preferably, the bottom of the main body portion and the bottom of the removable lid have the same or similar amount of indentation so that the beverage containers can be stacked on top of each other.

According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method comprising providing a beverage container having a main body portion having an open top, a closed bottom and defining an interior in which the beverage is disposed, the interior defining a first One volume. The container also includes a removable lid removably engaged with the main body. The removable cover includes a base, a generally cylindrical sidewall extending upwardly from the base, and a removable cover. The bottom, generally cylindrical sidewall, and removable cover define a lid interior, and items are placed within the lid interior. The method includes removing the removable cover from the removable cover, and removing the item from inside the cover, and removing the removable cover from the cylindrical body portion.

In a preferred embodiment, the removable lid further includes a secondary container containing a second beverage and having a removable lid, and the method includes removing the removable lid prior to placing the second beverage inside. Remove the cover.

In an embodiment, the removable cover further includes a secondary container including a removable cover associated therewith. Preferably, the cylindrical body portion contains the first beverage and the secondary container contains the second beverage, the first beverage and the second beverage being separated by the removable cap or the bottom of the removable cap.

Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the beverage containers herein provide the following features and advantages. Embodiments with a full orifice opening allow for an improved canning experience through exposure to aroma, foaming. Embodiments having a frusto-conical or tapered shape provide tank/container stackability. The ridges/protrusions and tapers provide places for the user to hold the can, providing an improved grip and providing a more ergonomic feel. In some embodiments, the smooth rim and lip contact area improves the can drinking experience through a cup-like feel. As will be discussed below, the smooth sides or edges can be formed by rolling the can material in or out to provide a flat, square or rounded edge. In a preferred embodiment, this provides a seamless (between lid and can) edge or other barrier to the lip contact area. In a preferred embodiment, there are no threads, bumps or sealing mechanisms in the lip contact area as they are located under and/or inside the can/container.

In a preferred embodiment, the container opens by twisting and the cap/lid is threaded onto the top and inside of the can, with the external (protruding) threads on the inside of the container and the internal threads on the outside of the cap. Preferably, the threads (or other sealing mechanism) are not visible from the outside of the container because the rim extends down far enough to cover, hide or obscure the threads. Preferably, the sealing arrangement is achieved by rolling outside in or rolling inside out rather than by rolling and sealing the lid to the can.

As described more fully below, a number of sealing options are provided including threads, bumps, barbs, o-rings, ridges, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, the lid can be used as an auxiliary compartment to hold individual additives through a separate cover. In a preferred embodiment, the removable lid does not need to be disposed of or discarded, but can be attached to the bottom of the jar. Preferably, the lid can be inverted and attached to the top of the can, increasing the volume of the overall container. In the inverted position, the cover or cap is attached by an additional sealing method such as an airtight/press fit or thread. The additional space provided by the inverted lid allows for additives, such as ice, mixes, another beverage, and the like. The inverted lid also allows the container to be used as a shaker.

In a preferred embodiment, to form the container, a cylindrical and/or frusto-conical body portion is stamped from sheet material (e.g. aluminium) and the threads are formed therein, then the top is rolled up to be "hidden" from the outside thread to form an edge. Then, after the container is filled with beverage, the lid (which is formed separately) is screwed on. The cover can be made of any desired material, eg metal, plastic, etc. As used herein, "cylindrical" or "substantially cylindrical" means that a component (eg, a body portion) has a circular cross-section, but not necessarily a constant diameter. For example, a joint that tapers, tapers, or contains a protrusion is considered "cylindrical" or "substantially cylindrical."

In a preferred embodiment, the removable cover fits to the bottom of the main body portion in a press fit or friction fit arrangement. Certain states, territories or countries etc. contain laws or regulations that prevent cans from having tabs that separate from the cans as they often end up in litter. Since the removable cap can be fitted to the bottom of the main body, the user can have a full aperture opening of the can and have a place to store the cap without having to throw it away.

The invention together with additional features and advantages can be best understood by referring to the following specification.

Description of drawings

Figure 1 is a side view of a beverage container, partly cut away to show liquid and ice therein, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a top view of the beverage container of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a top perspective view of the beverage container of Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a side view of the beverage container of Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the beverage container of Figure 1 taken along line 5-5 of Figure 4;

Figure 6 is a bottom view of the beverage container of Figure 1;

Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of a beverage container according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 8 is a perspective view of the lid component of the beverage container from Figure 7;

Figure 9 is a top view of the beverage container of Figure 7;

Figure 10 is a top perspective view of the beverage container of Figure 7;

Figure 11 is a side view of the beverage container of Figure 7;

12 is a cross-sectional view of the beverage container of FIG. 7 taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 11;

Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of a beverage container according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 14 is a top view of the beverage container of Figure 13;

Figure 15 is a top perspective view of the beverage container of Figure 13;

Figure 16 is a side view of the beverage container of Figure 13;

17 is a cross-sectional view of the beverage container of FIG. 13 taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 16;

Figure 18 is a top view of a beverage container according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 19 is a top perspective view of the beverage container of Figure 18;

Figure 20 is a side view of the beverage container of Figure 18;

21 is a cross-sectional view of the beverage container of FIG. 18 taken along line 21-21 of FIG. 20;

Figure 22 is a top perspective view of the beverage container of Figure 18 with the lid in an open position;

Figure 23 is an exploded perspective view of a beverage container according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 24 is a top view of the beverage container of Figure 23;

Figure 25 is a top perspective view of the beverage container of Figure 23;

Figure 26 is a side view of the beverage container of Figure 23;

27 is a cross-sectional view of the beverage container of FIG. 23 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 16;

Figure 28 is a perspective view of a beverage container according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention with a lid threadedly engaged on top of the can;

Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 29-29 of Figure 28;

Figure 30 is an exploded perspective view of the beverage container and lid of Figure 28;

Figure 31 is a perspective view of the beverage container of Figure 28 with the lid inverted;

Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 32/33-32/33 of Figure 31 and showing an inverted lid press fit onto a beverage container;

Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 32/33-32/33 of Figure 31 and showing another embodiment of an inverted cap threaded onto a beverage container;

Figure 34 is a perspective view of the beverage container of Figure 28 with the lid on its bottom;

Figure 35 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 35-35 of Figure 34;

Figure 36 is a cross-sectional view similar to Figure 33 but with an opening for drinking in the lid;

Figure 37A is a cutaway view showing a beverage container according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the lid having a barbed seal;

Figure 37B is a cutaway view showing a beverage container with a screw cap and disc seal according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 37C is a cut-away view showing a beverage container with a lid having an o-ring seal in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 37D is a cut-away view showing a beverage container with a screw cap and lip seal according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 37E is a cutaway view showing a beverage container having a flared top and a screw cap according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 37F is a cutaway view showing a threaded cap with a lower seal in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 38 is a perspective view of an inflated beverage container according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view of the expanded beverage container of Figure 38;

Figure 40 is a side view of two stacked beverage containers including ice indicia thereon;

Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view of a beverage container including a lid that can be moved upward to provide space for ice;

Figure 42 is a perspective view of a beverage container including a lid with space for food storage therein; and

43 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 43-43 of FIG. 42 .

Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

detailed description

The following description and drawings are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting. Several specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, in some instances, well-known or conventional details have not been described in order not to obscure the description. References in this disclosure to one or another embodiment may refer to, but not necessarily to, the same embodiment; and such references mean at least one embodiment.

Reference in the specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic is described in connection with at least one embodiment disclosed in connection with the embodiment. The appearances of the phrase "in one embodiment" in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Furthermore, features are described that may be exhibited by some embodiments but not by others. Similarly, various requirements are described which are required for some embodiments but not for other embodiments.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of disclosure, and in the specific context where each term is used. Some terms used to describe the present disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in the specification, in order to provide the practitioner with additional guidance regarding the description of the present disclosure. For convenience, some terms are highlighted, e.g. using italics and/or quotation marks: the use of highlighting has no effect on the scope and meaning of a term; in the same context, the scope and meaning of a term are the same whether or not it is highlighted. It will be realized that the same thing can be said in more than one way.

As a result, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein. No matter whether terms are specified or discussed herein, no special significance is imposed. Synonyms for some terms are provided. The mention of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. Examples used anywhere in the specification, including examples of any term discussed herein, are illustrative only and are not intended to further limit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or any exemplified term. Likewise, the present disclosure is not limited to the various examples given in this specification.

Without intending to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples of instruments, devices, methods and related results according to embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. In case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control.

It will be appreciated that terms such as "front", "rear", "top", "bottom", "side", "short", "long", "upper", "lower" and "under" are used herein are for ease of illustration only and refer to the orientation of components as shown. It should be understood that any orientation of the components described herein is within the scope of the invention.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein shown for purposes of illustration and not limitation of the invention, FIGS. 1-22 illustrate beverage containers (generally referred to herein as 10 and individually in or designated as 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 10e, etc.), these embodiments each include a cylindrical body portion 12 having an open top 14, a closed bottom 16, an interior 18, and a A recessed removable cover 20 at a position between it and the top 14 . A recess 22 is defined between the removable cover 20 and the top of the cylindrical body portion 12 . Typically, in use, a standard amount of beverage fills the volume below the removable lid 20 . The user can then remove the removable lid 20 and place other items or additives, such as alcohol, ice, or other mixtures, into the container 10 without causing the container 10 to overflow. For example, the standard volume for cans or beverage containers is twelve fluid ounces. In an exemplary embodiment, the beverage container has a volume capable of holding sixteen fluid ounces, but only contains twelve fluid ounces of cola. In use, the user removes the removable lid 20 and then pours three fluid ounces of whiskey into it to provide the whiskey and cola in the original cola container. In a preferred embodiment, the recess or extra space is between about 5% and about 50% of the total volume. In a more preferred embodiment, the recess or additional space is between about 10% and about 40% of the total volume. In a most preferred embodiment, the recess or extra space is between 20% and about 30% of the total volume.

2-6 illustrate a first embodiment of a beverage container 10a. As shown in Figures 2-6, the container 10a includes a pull-tab removable lid 20a or a full top pull-tab, which includes a ring 24 attached to a fully removable lid 26, similar to the removable lid on a tennis can. Remove cover. See also US Patent No. 3,349,949, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As shown in FIG. 5 , in a preferred embodiment, the container 10a includes a rim 28 having a periphery that is the same as or greater than the periphery of the cylindrical body portion 12 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the beverage container 10 having the rim 28 having an outer circumference approximately the same as the circumference of the cylindrical body portion 12 (thus providing relatively straight sides) and the recessed portion 22 provides a better drinking experience when drinking from the beverage container 10. More like a teacup or like a glass. It will be appreciated that as used herein, "removable lid" means that at least a portion of the removable lid can be removed or displaced such that the contents of container 10 can be accessed. Container 10a can be manufactured such that rim 28 and removable lid 20a are a unitary piece that at least partially defines recess 22 . However, this is not a limitation of the invention and the rim 28 and the removable cover 20a may be separate components.

As shown in Figures 5-6, in a preferred embodiment, the base 16 includes a circular contact surface 30 surrounding a non-contact portion 32 extending therebetween. In a preferred embodiment, the non-contact portion 32 has a continuous concave shape, as shown in FIG. 5 . In another embodiment, the bottom 16 may include a rim and a flat bottom surface, similar to a bean jar or the like. The bottom 16 may also include a bevel 34, however, this is not a limitation of the invention.

7-12 show a second embodiment of a beverage container 10b. As shown in FIGS. 7-8 , the removable cap 20b includes a cylindrical sidewall 36 , a handle 38 , and a plurality of projections 40 that engage with lugs 42 and corresponding notches 44 defined in the lugs 42 . Cooperate. Lugs 42 are arranged on the inner surface of the cylindrical body portion 12 . The tab 40 is received through the notch 44, and the removable cover 20b is then rotated so that the tab 40 is positioned under the lug 42, thereby securing the removable cover 20b to the cylindrical body portion 12, as Figure 12 shows. In a preferred embodiment, a seal is located between the removable cover 20b and the lug 42 . It will be appreciated that this embodiment may be resealable.

13-17 illustrate a third embodiment of a beverage container 10c. As shown in FIG. 13 , the removable cap 20 c includes threads 46 that cooperate with corresponding threads 48 on the inner surface of the cylindrical body portion 12 . In a preferred embodiment, beverage container 10c includes lugs 42 that provide a sealing surface for removable lid 20c. However, this is not a limitation and the lug 42 may be omitted. It will be appreciated that this embodiment may be resealable.

18-22 illustrate a fourth embodiment of a beverage container 1Od. As shown in FIG. 19, the removable lid 20d of the beverage container 10d includes a tab upper stay that includes a tab 50 that acts as a lever for depressing the lid 52, which is folded down and folded into container 10. The bump 50 includes a pull portion 51a and a stem portion 51b. As shown in Figure 21, in a preferred embodiment, the removable cover 2Od is sloped. However, this is not limiting of the invention and the removable cover 2Od can be oriented horizontally.

23-27 illustrate a fifth embodiment of a beverage container 1Oe. Beverage container 10e is similar to beverage container 10c, but includes a secondary container 54 associated therewith. The secondary container 54 is preferably used to hold another beverage. For example, if soda water is contained within the cylindrical body portion 12, the secondary container 54, initially separate from the remainder of the interior 18, is capable of holding an alcoholic beverage. Or, in the alternative, the main body portion 12 may include an alcoholic beverage and the secondary container 54 may include the mixture. In a preferred embodiment, the secondary container 54 includes a wall 56 extending downwardly from the removable cover 20e and a removable cover 58 . In a preferred embodiment, the lid 58 includes tabs 60 that can be grasped to pull the lid 58 apart, similar to a yogurt container. It will be appreciated that other methods for removing the cover 58 are within the scope of the present invention. For example, the cap can be screwed onto the auxiliary container 54 .

In use, the user removes the removable cap 20e (via threads 46 and 48), removes the cap 58, pours the beverage into the secondary container 54 and into the cylindrical body portion 12 to form a mixed beverage. In a preferred embodiment, beverage container 1Oe includes lugs 42 that provide a sealing surface for removable lid 2Oe. However, this is not a limitation and the lug 42 may be omitted. It will be appreciated that this embodiment may be resealable. Furthermore, the secondary container 54 can incorporate any other removable lid described herein or any other type of removable lid known in the art.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the beverage container 10 disclosed herein can be substituted for a standard sized beverage container or can such that the container 10 holds a standard amount of fluid ounces or milliliters of beverage, but the additional capacity created by the recess 22 provides additional or The ability to introduce ice or other liquids into the container 10. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the removable lid 20 is positioned so that 12 fluid ounces (fl. above the cover 20 (see arrow D2). After the removable lid 20 is removed, ice or other liquid can be added as desired in any amount up to 4 fl. Oz. without fear of overflow.

All over the world, cans or containers of different sizes or volumes are used to hold beverages. For example, in North America, the standard can size is 12 fl. Oz. or 355ml. 16, 24 and 40fl.Oz. are also standard. In Canada, the standard size is 355ml, which is approximately equal to twelve fluid ounces. In Australia, the standard can size is 375ml. In China, India, South Africa and Europe, the most common standard size is 330ml. In some European countries, 500ml and 440ml size cans are used. In Japan, the most common standard sizes are 350ml and 500ml. In Korea, 250ml cans are most commonly used for soft drinks. However, with take-away food, short 245ml cans are standard. Also, the standard size for a "glass" of alcohol varies around the world. Typically, a cup can be anywhere between 1 fl.Oz. and 3 fl.Oz. or 20ml and 100ml. Finally, a standard ice tray receptacle holds between about 1 fl.Oz. and 2 fl.Oz. However, the ice cubes can be smaller or larger. In a preferred embodiment, beverage container 10 can hold a standard serving of beverage and has space above it for at least one glass of alcohol, two ice cubes, or both.

An exemplary use will now be described. In sports arenas, beer is often sold from a kiosk or stand, and the waiter opens the beer can, pours it into a glass, and passes the glass to the customer. Cans are not usually given to customers for drinking due to the possibility of ash or dust on the top of the cans or to reduce the possibility of throwing the cans away. Therefore, the process requires materials for cans and cups. Furthermore, cups typically have the same bulk volume as cans. Therefore, the customer will often spill some beer when walking back to his seat (especially when he is carrying more than one mug). With the container 10 of the present invention, an attendant can unscrew or otherwise remove the removable cap 20 and pass the container 10 to the customer. With the lid 20 removed, the customer essentially owns the cup and is less likely to spill due to the extra space created by the recess 22 . If desired, the server can give the cap 20 to the customer so the container 10 can be resealed. In addition, the bevel 34 allows the container 10 to be stacked, which further reduces spillage of the container 10 after opening.

In another embodiment, the container can be filled with liquor. Liquor is more enjoyable when the top opening of the drinking container (eg, wine glass) is large enough for the user's nose to fit therein. With conventional tanks this is not possible due to the small opening. In addition, liquor drinkers often rotate the liquor in the container in order to release the aroma. With the present invention, because the entire cap is removed and there is space created by the recess 22, the user is able to swirl the contents without fear of spilling and fit his/her nose on top of the opening of the container.

It will be appreciated that modifications may be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the main body of the container may be of a shape other than cylindrical or circular, such as oval, square, rectangular or similar, and the removable lid could be secured in place by other means, such as snap fit or press fit. Cooperate.

Referring to Figures 28-36, another preferred embodiment of a beverage container 10f has a removable and recessed lid 20f. 28-31 show the container 10f and the lid 20f in a first or home position (ie, the position when the user purchased the container). As shown, the container 10f includes a generally frusto-conical body portion 12 having an open top 14, a closed bottom 16, an interior 18, and a recessed removable lid 20f. In a preferred embodiment, the bottom 16 includes a circular contact surface 30 surrounding a non-contact portion 32 extending therebetween. In a preferred embodiment, the non-contact portion 32 has a continuous concave shape.

The cover 20 f includes a bottom 21 , a sidewall 36 extending upwardly from the bottom 21 , an annular flange 63 and a collar 64 . The bottom 21 and the side walls 36 cooperate to define a lid cavity 62 . Cover cavity 62 is generally the volume below annular flange 63 when the removable cover is in the original position (see FIG. 29 ).

Typically, a standard amount of beverage fills the volume beneath the removable lid 20 when in use. The user can then remove the removable lid 20f and place other items or additions, such as alcohol, ice or other mixtures, into the container 10 without causing the container 10 to overflow (due to the recess 22). In an exemplary embodiment, the beverage will occupy about 80% of the volume of the container 10, leaving about 20% for ice or other liquid or the like after the removable lid 20 is removed.

As best shown in FIG. 29, in a preferred embodiment, the container 10f includes a raised section 65 that provides a space for the user to grip the container 10f, and a rim 28 that is formed by forming the main body portion. 12 is formed by rolling or bending the material (for example, aluminum) to its outside. The removable cap 20f includes threads 46 that cooperate with corresponding threads 48 on the inner surface of the main body portion 12 . In a preferred embodiment, the threads 48 are short interrupted threads that reduce turbulence while drinking. However, this is not a limitation and the threads 48 may be longer or continuous. As shown in FIG. 29 , in a preferred embodiment, rim 28 includes a downwardly depending portion 29 extending downwardly on the outside of main body portion 12 sufficiently to conceal, cover or obscure threads 48 . In other words, the threads 48 are positioned at a first height H1, the bottom edge of the downwardly depending portion 29 of the edge is positioned at a second height H2, and the first height H1 is greater than the second height H2. In the first position, the collar 64 extends above and outboard of the edge 28 . In use, the beverage container 10 may include a tamper seal surrounding the collar 64 and a portion of the main body portion 12 adjacent the tamper seal.

The collar 64 together with the annular flange 63 and the side wall 36 define a first channel 65 and a second channel 67 which are respectively in the first position when the edge 28 is on the main body portion 12. and a second position receiving edge 28 .

31-33 illustrate the removable cover 20f in a second or inverted position. This position is typically used after the removable cover 20f is initially removed. For example, if ice or other liquid has been added to the contents of container 10, the level of liquid may be too high to return removable lid 20f to the first position. Thus, the removable cover 20f is turned upside down and placed on top of the main body portion 12 . This is done to allow the contents to be shaken or to prevent spillage. Two different ways of inverting the removable cover 20f and attaching the removable cover 20f to the top of the cylindrical body portion 12 are shown in the figure. The first embodiment (see FIG. 32 ) is essentially a press fit, friction fit or snug fit onto the top of the cylindrical body portion 12 with the collar 64 pressing against the rim 28 . In a second embodiment (see FIG. 33 ), once the removable cover 20f is inverted, a second set of threads 66 is provided which cooperates with the threads 48 on the main body portion 12 . In other embodiments, the removable cover 20f can be secured to the top of the main body portion 12 by other methods such as snap fit, compliant protrusions, and the like.

34-35 show the removable cap 20f on the bottom of the cylindrical body portion 12 (third or bottom position). In a preferred embodiment, the removable cover 20f is retained on the bottom of the main body portion 12 by a press fit or friction fit. In another embodiment, the removable cover 20f can be secured to the bottom of the main body portion 12 by a threaded fit or a snap fit or any other type of fit. With this configuration, the removable cover 20f can be disposed of together with the main body portion 12 instead of being thrown away separately. In a preferred embodiment, the concavity of the bottom 21 of the cover matches the concavity of the bottom of the cylindrical body portion 12 to provide stability.

FIG. 36 shows an embodiment similar to FIG. 33 , but in which the removable lid 20f includes a drinking opening 68 with a removable, pivotable or hingeable tab 70 . Thus, once the removable lid 20f is inverted and the tab 70 is removed or otherwise dislodged from the drinking opening 68 , the user is able to drink through the exposed drinking opening 68 .

37A-37F illustrate beverage containers 10 having different exemplary embodiments of removable recessed lids 20 . FIG. 37A shows a beverage container 10g having a removable lid 20g sealed to the main body portion 12 via a barb seal 72 that provides Downforce seal. The barb seal 72 also provides a compliant sealing surface, which is beneficial if there are any irregularities in the main body portion 12 . For redundancy, multiple barb seals are available. FIG. 37B shows a beverage container 10h having a threaded removable lid 20h abutting a shoulder 74 in the body portion 12 comprising a disk-shaped sealant 76 . FIG. 37C shows a beverage container 10i having a removable lid 20i sealed to the main body portion 12 via an o-ring seal 78 . FIG. 37D shows a beverage container 10j having a threaded removable lid 20j including a seal 80 extending around the rim 28 and abutting the shoulder 74 in the main body portion 12 . FIG. 37E shows a beverage container 10k having a removable lid 20k and an associated body portion 12 including an outwardly flared rim 28 . A seal 81 is provided between the rim 28 and the removable cover 20k. FIG. 37F shows a beverage container 10L having a threaded removable lid 20L abutting a ramp 82 in the body portion 12 including a seal 83 .

Figures 38-39 illustrate an expandable beverage container 10m. In this embodiment, the beverage container 10m includes a spout 84 with threads 46 that thread onto internal threads 48 on the interior of the main body portion 12 . The top of the spout 84 includes a cover 86 hingedly connected to the spout and covering the drinking opening 87 . Alternatively, the spout may include a peel-off or twist-off top instead of a hinged cover. In a preferred embodiment, the spout 84 seals against the top and bottom of the threaded bottom when compressed and expanded, respectively.

In use, the user expands the volume of the container 10m by unscrewing the spout 84 to the stop, and then the cap 86 moves from the closed position to the open position. Ice or other additions can then be added to the beverage within the container 10m.

Figure 40 shows two beverage containers 10 with graphics or indicia 88 on their exterior. In a preferred embodiment, indicia 88 represent ice cubes. This helps to remind the customer that there is room to add ice to the beverage container 10 after the recessed top 20 is removed. FIG. 40 also illustrates the nesting capability of the beverage container 10 .

FIG. 41 shows another embodiment of an expandable beverage container 10 n that includes a spout 84 with threads 46 threaded onto internal threads 48 on the interior of the body portion 12 . The top of the spout 84 includes a cover 86 hingedly connected to the spout and covering a drinking opening 87 . In a preferred embodiment, a bottom seal 90 and a top seal 92 are included such that the container is sealed at the bottom and top during its rotational or expansion motion.

FIG. 42 shows another preferred embodiment of a beverage container 10o including a removable lid 94 covering or sealing the lid cavity 62 in the removable lid 20o to define a lid interior 96 . The lid interior 96 can be used to store any desired items. For example, as shown in FIGS. 42-43, the lid interior 96 may contain food items such as cookies, sweet rolls, marshmallows, muffins, cream and sugar packets, and the like. In another embodiment, the lid interior 96 may include a liquid, such as a mixture for mixing with the liquid in the body portion 12 or a beverage. In another embodiment, the lid interior 96 may include powdered ingredients, such as energy drinks, coffee, tea, and the like. Thus, the container can be sold with water inside and the powder can then be poured (after removal of the cap 94) and then mixed. In another embodiment, the lid interior 96 may include nuts or crackers, which may be given away or sold on an airplane along with soda cans or other beverages. Other items such as toys, trinkets, giveaways, etc. may also be placed within the lid interior 96. Any item placed within the lid interior 96 is within the scope of the present invention. In another embodiment, container 10 may include crumbles and sauces. In another embodiment, the removable lid can be used as a cup and the main body as a water bottle or the like.

In a preferred embodiment, a cover 94 is fastened to annular flange 63 as shown in FIG. 43 . In another embodiment, a separate shoulder may be provided for securing the cover thereto. The cover 94 may include a tab 98 to provide a place for the user to pull the cover 94 open. In another embodiment, the cover 94 can be fastened to the ferrule 64 .

Many variations on the beverage container 10 taught herein are within the scope of the invention. For example, edge 28 may be formed by rolling the material inward or outward. Also, the edges shown in the figures are generally rounded. However, they could also be square or flat (as shown in Figure 37F). Furthermore, the shape of the main body portion can be provided depending on what type of beverage is to be served therein. For example, the body portion 12 may be shaped such as a barrel, shaped as a cone, shaped as a barrel at the top and tapered down from the top, shaped as a tapered tulip, a British/Nonic pint, British Tulip Pint Shaped, Stepped Tapered or Tapered Tulip Shot Glasses.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", etc. are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is, in "including, but not limited to". As used herein, the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variations thereof mean any connection or coupling, direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling of a connection between elements can be physical, logical , or a combination of them. Additionally, the words "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portions of this application. Where the context permits, words in the above detailed description of the preferred embodiments using the singular or the plural may also include the plural or the singular respectively. The word "or" referring to a list of two or more items covers all of the following interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of items in the list.

The above detailed description of embodiments of the present disclosure is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise forms disclosed above. While specific embodiments and examples disclosed above are described for illustrative purposes, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will understand. For example, although procedures are presented in a given order, alternative embodiments may perform a routine with steps in a different order, and some steps may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/or modified to provide alternatives or subgroups. Each of these processes can be implemented in a number of different ways. Also, although processes are sometimes shown as being performed serially, these processes may be performed in parallel, or may be performed at different times. Further, any specific numbers mentioned herein are examples only: alternative implementations may employ different values or ranges.

Any patents and applications and other references mentioned above, including any patents and applications and other references listed in the accompanying filing reports, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. If necessary, the disclosed aspects can be modified, and the systems, functions, and concepts of the above-mentioned references can be employed to provide further embodiments of the present disclosure.

These and other modifications can be made to the disclosure in light of the above detailed description of a preferred embodiment. While the above specification describes some embodiments of the disclosure, and describes the best mode conceivable, no matter how specifically the foregoing appears in text, the teachings can be practiced in various ways. The details of a system can vary widely in its implementation details and still be encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above, use of particular term when describing some features or aspects of the present disclosure should not be taken to imply that the term is redefined herein to be limited to any specific characteristic, feature or aspect of the disclosure to which the term is associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification, unless the above detailed description in the Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines that term. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.

Therefore, while exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it is to be understood that all terms used herein are words of description rather than limitation, and that various changes, Modifications and substitutions are made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims (21)

1. a container for drink, including:

Main part, it has open top and closing bottom and defines inside, wherein said main part includes edge and within it first group of screw thread on surface of circle, described first group of screw thread is positioned adjacent in the first At The Height with described edge, wherein said edge includes extending to the downwardly depending part below described first group of screw thread, and wherein said main part defines the first volume, and

Removable cap, it include bottom, general cylindrical shape sidewall, from the outward extending collar flange of sidewall of described general cylindrical shape, and the lasso of ring-type, the sidewall of wherein said lasso, described collar flange and described general cylindrical shape defines the first passage receiving described edge, the sidewall of wherein said bottom and described general cylindrical shape cooperates to define lid chamber, the sidewall of wherein said general cylindrical shape includes second group of screw thread on its outer surface, engages to described second group of screw thread and the described first group of threaded engagement on described main part.

2. container for drink as claimed in claim 1, wherein said lasso defines the second channel relative with described first passage with described collar flange, and wherein said removable cap can be inverted into upside down position from the original position that described edge is received within described first passage and described edge is received within described second channel.

3. container for drink as claimed in claim 2, wherein said lasso is sized to so that when described removable cap is in upside down position, described lasso provides frictional fit at the top of described main part.

4. container for drink as claimed in claim 2, wherein, the sidewall of described general cylindrical shape includes the 3rd group of screw thread, when described removable cap is in described upside down position, engages to described 3rd group of screw thread and described first group of threaded engagement.

5. container for drink as claimed in claim 1, wherein said removable cap can move to the bottom of described main part from the original position that described edge is received within described first passage and be received within the bottom position in described lid chamber, and the sidewall of wherein said general cylindrical shape is sized on described bottom position and provides the frictional fit with described main part.

6. container for drink as claimed in claim 4, wherein said removable cap can move to the bottom of described main part from the original position that described edge is received within described first passage and be received within the bottom position in described lid chamber, and the sidewall of wherein said general cylindrical shape is sized on described bottom position and provides the frictional fit with described main part.

7. container for drink as claimed in claim 1, farther includes the recess being limited between the bottom of described removable cap and the open top of described main part, and wherein said recess defines about 5% and about the second volume between 50% at described first volume.

8. container for drink as claimed in claim 1, wherein said first group of screw thread is positioned at the first height, and the downwardly depending part at wherein said edge includes the feather edge being positioned at the second height, and wherein said first height is more than described second height.

9. container for drink as claimed in claim 2, wherein said removable cap all seals about described main part on described original position and described upside down position.

10. container for drink as claimed in claim 1, wherein said removable cap farther includes cover described lid chamber and limit the removable housing within lid, and wherein article are placed in described lid inside.

11. container for drink as claimed in claim 1, wherein said main part includes convex section.

12. a method, comprise the following steps:

A () provides container for drink, described container for drink includes

Main part, has open top, closing bottom and limits internal, and inside defines the first volume, and wherein beverage is placed in described inside, and

Removable cap, it is gone up in situ and engages removedly with described main part, and wherein said removable cap includes bottom and the sidewall of general cylindrical shape extended from described bottom up, and the sidewall of wherein said bottom and described general cylindrical shape defines lid chamber,

B described removable cap is removed by () from described columnar main part, and

C () is not at the upside down position in described recess in described lid chamber, described removable cap be placed on described main part.

13. method as claimed in claim 12, before further including at step (c), at least one additive is placed on described inside and shakes the step of described container for drink after step (c).

14. method as claimed in claim 12, farther include: when being in described original position or upside down position when described removable cap, the step that described removable cap is removed from described main part, and the step described removable cap being placed on the bottom of described main part and making the bottom of described main part be received within described lid intracavity.

15. method as claimed in claim 14, wherein said container for drink farther includes the recess being limited between the bottom of described removable cap and the top of described main part, wherein said recess limits the second volume, wherein when described removable cap is arranged in described original position, described lid chamber is positioned at described recess, and wherein when described removable cap is arranged in described upside down position, described lid chamber is not in described recess.

16. method as claimed in claim 15, wherein said second volume described first volume about 5% and about between 50%.

17. method as claimed in claim 12, wherein said main part includes edge and the within it first group of screw thread being positioned adjacent to described edge on surface of circle, and wherein said edge includes extending to the downwardly depending part below described first group of screw thread.

18. method as claimed in claim 17, wherein step (b) includes second group of screw thread in described removable cap and described first group of thread separation.

19. method as claimed in claim 18, wherein step (c) includes the 3rd group of screw thread in described removable cap and described first group of screw-threaded engagement.

20. method as claimed in claim 12, further include at the step drinking opening exposing on the bottom of described removable cap after step (b).

21. a method, comprise the following steps:

A () provides container for drink, described container for drink includes

Main part, has open top, closing bottom and limits internal, and inside defines the first volume, and wherein beverage is placed in described inside, and

Removable cap, it engages removedly with described main part, the sidewall of the general cylindrical shape that wherein said removable cap includes bottom, extend from described bottom up and removable housing, it is internal that wherein said bottom, the sidewall of described general cylindrical shape and described removable housing define lid, and wherein article are placed in described lid inside

B described removable housing is removed by () from described removable cap, and removed in described lid inside by described article, and

C described removable cap is removed by () from described cylindrical body portion.