US20190380477A1

US20190380477A1 - Ring shaped hydration tube

Info

Publication number: US20190380477A1
Application number: US16/440,783
Authority: US
Inventors: Russ Loftin
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-06-13
Filing date: 2019-06-13
Publication date: 2019-12-19

Abstract

A personal hydration system is disclosed. The personal hydration system may include a body configured to form a loop around a user's torso. The body may define a cavity configured to contain fluid. The personal hydration system may include a tube in fluidic communication with the cavity. The personal hydration system may include a fluid seal coupled to the tube and configured to selectively allow fluid to pass through the tube.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/684,338, filed Jun. 13, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD

The present application concerns embodiments of personal hydration systems.

BACKGROUND

Hydration packs are well known and provide benefits over traditional canteens and water bottles. Despite these benefits, hydration packs have several drawbacks. Their large capacity for fluid generally results in the hydration pack being heavy. The large size of the hydration pack may also make it difficult for a user to repeatedly attach and remove from their body. Similarly, because of their large size, the hydration packs may interfere with the user's surrounding environment and motion. For example, if a user was to equip a hydration pack while paddle boarding the user's motion may be significantly affected by both the size and the weight of the hydration pack. Improvements in the field of hydration and personal hydration systems accordingly are desired.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure is directed to embodiments of a personal hydration system. Embodiments of the present disclosure include a personal hydration system that may include a body configured to form a loop around a user's torso. The body may define a cavity configured to contain fluid. The personal hydration system may include a tube in fluidic communication with the cavity. The personal hydration system may include a fluid seal coupled to the tube and configured to selectively allow fluid to pass through the tube.
Embodiments of the present disclosure include a personal hydration system that may include a body configured to form a loop. The body may have a bladder that is configured to form at least part of the loop. The bladder may have an interior chamber configured to contain fluid and a fluid port in fluidic communication with the interior chamber. The personal hydration system may include a fluid seal in fluidic communication with the interior chamber and configured to selectively allow fluid to pass through the fluid port.
Embodiments of the present disclosure include a personal hydration system that may include a body configured to form a loop. The body may have a bladder that is configured to contain fluid. The bladder may have a first end, a second end opposite the first end, an interior chamber, a flexible side wall that surrounds the interior chamber, and a fluid port in fluidic communication with the interior chamber. The first end of the bladder may be configured to couple to the second end of the bladder. A tube may have a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end of the tube configured to be in fluidic communication with the interior chamber of the bladder. A cap may be configured to couple to the fluid port and form a fluid-tight seal.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to one skilled in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. Component parts shown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, and may be exaggerated to better illustrate the important features of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1B is a cross sectional view along line A-A in FIG. 1A of the body of the personal hydration system shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2B is a cross sectional view along line B-B in FIG. 2A of the body of the personal hydration system shown in FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4A is a right perspective view of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4B is a left perspective view of the personal hydration system shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is a bottom perspective view of the personal hydration system shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4D is a top perspective view of the personal hydration system shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a perspective view of a component of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5C is a perspective view of a component of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6B is a front view of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6C is a side view of the personal hydration system shown in FIG. 6B.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of a body of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a component of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of a component of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a component of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10B is a perspective view of a component of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a component of a personal hydration system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a personal hydration system being carried by a user according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide an understanding of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, to one of ordinary skill in the art that elements of the present disclosure may be practiced without some of these specific details. In certain instances, certain structures and techniques have not been shown in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure.
FIG. 1A shows an embodiment of a personal hydration system 100 having a body 101, a tube 103, and a fluid seal 105.
The personal hydration system 100 includes a body 101 that is configured to form a loop around a user's torso. In some embodiments, the personal hydration system 100 may be configured to have a portion of the body 101 rest on a user's shoulder when the system 100 is looped around a user's torso.
The body 101 defines a cavity 107 (marked in FIG. 1B) that is configured to contain fluid. In some embodiments, the cavity 107 may be a continuous circumferential chamber within the body 101. In other embodiments, the cavity 107 may be a chamber that extends only along a partial circumference within the body 101.
In some embodiments, the body 101 may be flexible. The body 101 may be made from a flexible material. In other embodiments, the body 101 may rigid or semi-rigid and may be made from a rigid material or a semi-rigid material. As depicted, the body 101 has a circular cross section. However, other cross sectional configurations may be used interchangeably according to various embodiments.
The body 101 may be formed from a single continuous hollow ring. In other embodiments, the body 101 may be formed from a cylindrical hollow tube with two ends that have been coupled together. The coupling may be removable or permanent. The body 101 may be configured to have an adjustable circumference through extendable bellows or some other means.
The personal hydration system 100 may have a tube 103 in fluidic communication with the cavity 107. The tube 103 is configured to facilitate fluid to be transported between the cavity 107 and the fluid seal 105. The tube 103 may be for drinking (a drinking tube). In some embodiments, the tube 103 may be made from a flexible material. In other embodiments, the tube 103 may be made from a rigid material. As depicted, the tube 103 has a circular cross section. However, other cross sections may be used interchangeably according to various embodiments.
The tube 103 may have a first end 109 and a second end 111 opposite the first end 109. As depicted, the first end 109 of the tube 103 is disposed outside of the body 101. The second end 111 of the tube 103 may be coupled directly to the body 101 and may couple to an opening in the body for the tube to be in fluidic communication with the cavity 107. In some embodiments, the second end of the tube 103 may extend within the cavity 107 of the body 101 to facilitate easier removal of fluid within the cavity 107 due to fluid pressure within the cavity 107 (for example, as shown with the second end 223 of tube 203 in FIG. 2A). The fluid pressure within the cavity 107 may be the result of the depth of the second end of the tube 103 and the orientation of the personal hydration system as carried by a user.
The personal hydration system 100 may include a fluid seal 105 that may be coupled to the first end 109 of the tube 103 and configured to selectively allow fluid to pass through the tube 103. As depicted, the fluid seal 105 is in the form of a bite valve. However, other forms of fluid seals may be used interchangeably according to various embodiments. The fluid seal 105 may be configured for a user to use to withdraw fluid from the cavity 107. For example, the user may suck on the fluid seal 105 to withdraw the fluid from the cavity 107. In an embodiment in which the fluid seal 105 is a bite valve, the user may bite and suck on the valve to withdraw the fluid. The user may drink the fluid.
In one embodiment, the fluid seal 105 may be used to fill the cavity 107 with fluid. In other embodiments, a separate fluid port, such as the embodiments of fluid ports disclosed in this application, may be used to fill the cavity 107 with fluid.
In some embodiments, the body 101 may include an outer sheath coupled to an inner bladder that defines the cavity. The outer sheath may be configured to insulate the bladder from the heat differential between the fluid contained in the bladder and the exterior environment. The outer sheath may extend completely around the circumference of the body 101 or extend only partially around the circumference of the body 101. The outer sheath may also be configured to facilitate easier gripping by a user. In some embodiments, the outer sheath may have an adjustable circumference.
A pocket may be coupled to the outer sheath according to various embodiments. In other embodiments, a pocket may be coupled directly to the body 101 of the personal hydration system 100.
FIG. 1B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the body 101 along line A-A in FIG. 1A. The body 101 is shown to define a cavity 107 that is configured to contain fluid. The portion of the body 101 that defines the cavity 107 configured to contain fluid is a bladder. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the body 101 thus has a bladder. The body 101 may include an interior surface 113 and an exterior surface 115 facing opposite the interior surface 113. The body 101 may include a flexible side wall (as shown in cross-hatching in FIG. 1B) that may surround the cavity 107, and may accordingly surround the interior chamber.
The features of the personal hydration system 100 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
FIG. 2A shows an embodiment of a personal hydration system 200 in which the body 201 includes an outer sheath 207 that extends over a bladder 202 (shown in dashed lines in FIG. 2A). FIG. 2B illustrates a cross sectional view of the body 201 of the personal hydration system 200 along line B-B in FIG. 2A.
Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, the personal hydration system 200 may include the body 201, a tube 203, and a fluid seal 205.
The body 201 may be configured to form a loop around a user's torso, and may define a cavity 204 (marked in FIG. 2B) configured to contain fluid. The body 201 may have a bladder 202 that is configured to form at least part of a loop. The bladder 202 may include the cavity 204 (marked in FIG. 2B) in the form of an interior chamber configured to contain fluid. The bladder 202 may be configured similarly as the body 101 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B, and may include similar features as the body 101 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B. The bladder 202 may include an interior surface 217 and an exterior surface 219 facing opposite the interior surface 217 (marked in FIG. 2B). The cavity 204 and chamber shown in FIG. 2B may be configured similarly as the cavity 107 and chamber discussed in regard to the embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B, and may include similar features as the cavity 107 and chamber discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B. The bladder 202 may include a flexible side wall (as shown in cross-hatching in FIG. 2B) that may surround the cavity 204, and may accordingly surround the interior chamber.
The body 201 of the personal hydration system 200 may further include the outer sheath 207. The outer sheath 207 may be configured similarly as the outer sheath discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B, and may include similar features as the outer sheath discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B. The outer sheath 207 is shown coupled to the internal bladder 202. The outer sheath 207 may couple to the internal bladder 202 by extending around the internal bladder 202 (around the exterior surface 219 of the internal bladder 202), or through another form of coupling. The outer sheath 207 may comprise fabric that is wrapped over the internal bladder 202 and then stitched to itself to form the sheath 207 around the internal bladder 202. The outer sheath 207 may extend completely around the circumference of the bladder 202 (as shown in FIG. 2A) or in other embodiments may extend only partially around the circumference of the bladder 202. The outer sheath 207 may extend completely along the length of the bladder 202 (as shown in FIG. 2A) or in other embodiments may extend only partially along the length of the bladder 202.
The outer sheath 207 may be configured to insulate the bladder 202 from the heat differential between the fluid contained in the bladder 202 and the exterior environment. The outer sheath 207 may also be configured to facilitate easier gripping of the body 201 by a user. The outer sheath 207 may have an adjustable circumference.
In some embodiments, a pocket 215 may be coupled to the outer sheath 207. The pocket 215 may be configured to allow easy and convenient access by a user to various electronic devices, keys, or other paraphernalia disposed within the pocket 215. The pocket 215 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
The personal hydration system 200 may include a fluid port 211. The fluid port 211 may be in fluidic communication with the interior chamber of the bladder 202 and configured to engage with a cap 213. The fluid port 211 may pass through an opening in the outer sheath 207 so that the fluid port 211 is accessible from outside of the outer sheath 207. The cap 213 may be configured to couple with the fluid port 211 and form a fluid tight seal. In some embodiments, the fluid port 211 and the cap 213 may have complimentary mating surfaces (such as threading) to facilitate easier and more solid engagement with each other. The fluid port 211 may be utilized to fill the bladder 202 with fluid for the user to drink from the bladder 202. The cap 213 may be configured to be coupled to and uncoupled from the fluid port 211 to respectively open and close the fluid port 211.
The personal hydration system 200 may include a manual pump 209. The manual pump 209 may be coupled to the bladder 202 and may be configured to pressurize the interior chamber of the bladder 202 to facilitate easier extraction of the fluid from the bladder 202. The manual pump 209 may be in the form of a squeeze pump, piston pump, plunger pump, or any other form of manual pump operable by a user. The manual pump 209 may pass through an opening in the outer sheath 207 so that the manual pump 209 is accessible from outside of the outer sheath 207. The manual pump 209 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
The tube 203 may be configured similarly as the tube 103 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B, and may include similar features as the tube 103 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B. The tube 203 may have a first end 221 coupled to the fluid seal 205. The tube 203 may have a second end 223 positioned within the cavity 204 of the bladder 202 to facilitate easier removal of fluid within the cavity 204 due to fluid pressure within the cavity 204. The tube 203 may pass through an opening in the outer sheath 207 and an opening in the bladder 202 and extend to the second end 223. The second end 223 may be an open end that is positioned at a lower portion of the body 201 where the fluid may be pooled due to gravity when the body 201 is worn by a user. FIG. 2B illustrates the tube 203 positioned within the cavity 204.
The fluid seal 205 may be configured similarly as the fluid seal 105 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B, and may include similar features as the fluid seal 105 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A and 1B.
The features of the personal hydration system 200 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a personal hydration system 300 including straps 302 coupled to the body 301. The personal hydration system 300 may include the body 301, a tube 303, and a fluid seal 305.
The body 301 may be configured similarly as the bodies 101, 201 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-2B, and may include similar features as the bodies 101, 201 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-2B. The tube 303 may be configured similarly as the tubes 103, 203 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-2B, and may include similar features as the tubes 103, 203 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-2B. The fluid seal 305 may be configured similarly as the fluid seals 105, 205 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-2B, and may include similar features as the fluid seals 105, 205 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-2B.
The straps 302 may include a first strap 331 and a second strap 333. The first strap 331 may be coupled to a male side release buckle 335. The second strap 333 may be coupled to a female side release buckle 337. The male side release buckle 335 may be configured to removably couple to the female side release buckle 337. In other embodiments, the first strap 331 may removably couple to the second strap 333 via a hook and loop fastener (such as Velcro or other forms of hook and loop fasteners). In other embodiments, the first strap 331 may removably couple to the second strap 333 via buttons. However, other forms of removable coupling may be used interchangeably according to various embodiments.
In an embodiment in which the straps 302 are utilized with a body having an outer sheath (such as the outer sheath 207 shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B), the straps 302 may be coupled to the outer sheath. In an embodiment in which an outer sheath is not utilized, the straps 302 may couple to the exterior surface of the body.
The straps 302 may be configured to prevent shifting of the personal hydration system 300 when the system 300 is looped around a user's torso. The straps 302 may be configured to prevent the personal hydration system 300 from being thrown off of a user's torso when the user is engaged in a strenuous activity. The straps 302 may be configured to extend around a user's waist or other portion of the user's body when the body 301 is looped around a user's torso and may prevent a portion of the body 301 from lifting away from the user's body.
The straps 302 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein. The features of the personal hydration system 300 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate an embodiment of a personal hydration system 400 configured similarly as the hydration system 200 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, and including straps 402 coupled to the body 401. FIG. 4A illustrates a right perspective view of the system 400. FIG. 4B illustrates a left perspective view of the system 400. FIG. 4C illustrates a bottom perspective view of the system 400. FIG. 4D illustrates a top perspective view of the system 400.
Referring to FIGS. 4A-4D, the personal hydration system 400 may include the body 401, a tube 403, and a fluid seal 405. The body 401 may be configured similarly as the body 201 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, and may include similar features as the body 201 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B. The body 401 may be configured to form a loop around a user's torso, and may define a cavity configured to contain fluid. The exterior of the body 401 is shown to include an outer sheath in the form of fabric. The outer sheath extends over an inner bladder, in a similar manner as discussed in regard to the embodiments of FIGS. 2A and 2B. The inner bladder is configured to form at least part of the loop. Stitching 406 of the outer sheath is visible. A pocket 415 is shown coupled to the body 401 (coupled to the outer sheath). The pocket is positioned proximate the opening of the outer sheath and the opening of the bladder that the tube 403 extends through. The pocket 415 may be made of fabric and may be stitched to the fabric of the outer sheath. The pocket 415 may be configured to allow easy and convenient access by a user to various electronic devices, keys, or other paraphernalia disposed within the pocket 415.
The tube 403 may be configured similarly as the tube 203 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, and may include similar features as the tube 203 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B. A second end of the tube 403 may be positioned within a cavity of the bladder to facilitate easier removal of fluid within the cavity due to fluid pressure within the cavity, in a similar manner as discussed in regard to the tube 203. The second end of the tube 403 may be an open end that is positioned at a lower portion of the body 401 where the fluid may be pooled due to gravity when the body 401 is worn by a user.
The fluid seal 405 may be configured similarly as the fluid seal 205 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, and may include similar features as the fluid seal 205 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B.
The personal hydration system 400 may include a fluid port 411 and a cap 413. The fluid port 411 may be configured similarly as the fluid port 211 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, and may include similar features as the fluid port 211 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B. The cap 413 may be configured similarly as the cap 213 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, and may include similar features as the cap 213 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B.
The straps 402 may be configured similarly as the straps 302 discussed in regard to FIG. 3, and may include similar features as the straps 302 discussed in regard to FIG. 3. The straps 402 are shown to include a first strap with a male side release buckle and a second strap with a female side release buckle. In other embodiments, other forms of straps may be utilized. The straps 402 may be coupled to an adjustment device 404 configured to move the position of the straps 402 along the exterior surface of the body 401. The adjustment device 404 may couple the straps 402 to the body 401. The adjustment device 404 may be configured to slide along the exterior surface of the body 401 to move the straps 402 to a desired position along the body 401. As shown in FIGS. 4A-4D, the adjustment device 404 may comprise a loop extending around the exterior surface of the body 401, and may be made of fabric. The straps 402 may be positioned between the exterior surface of the body 401 and the interior surface of the adjustment device 404.
The features of the personal hydration system 400 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
FIG. 5A shows an embodiment of a personal hydration system 500 in which the body 501 has a tubular bladder 502 with a first end 504 and a second end 506, and the first end 504 and second end 506 of the bladder 502 may be coupled to a coupler 517 that may have a t-shape (a T-shaped coupler).
The personal hydration system 500 may include the body 501, a tube 503, and a fluid seal 505.
The body 501 may be configured to form a loop around a user's torso, and may define a cavity configured to contain fluid. The body 501 may include the tubular bladder 502 and the coupler 517 and a reinforcing tube 519. The bladder 502 may be formed from a hollow cylindrical tube that has a first end 504 and a second end 506 that is opposite the first end 504. The first end 504 may be configured to couple to the second end 506. The bladder 502 is configured to form at least part of the loop, and has an interior chamber configured to contain fluid. The bladder 502 may have a flexible side wall (similar to the flexible side wall shown in FIG. 2B) that surrounds the interior chamber. The first end 504 and second end 506 of the bladder 502 may be coupled to the coupler 517. The coupler 517 may be configured to facilitate the body 501 forming a ring like shape. The coupler 517 may have a fluid port 511 configured to provide fluidic communication to the interior of the body 501. The fluid port 511 may be configured to engage with a cap 513 and form a fluid-tight seal.
In some embodiments, the bladder 502 may have its first end 504 and second end 506 removably coupled to the coupler 517 in order to facilitate easier access by a user for the purpose of cleaning. In other embodiments, the bladder 502 may be coupled to the coupler 517 via adhesive to from a permanent fluid-tight seal. The fluid port 511 and the cap 513 may have complimentary mating surfaces to facilitate easier and more solid engagement with each other.
The body 501 may include a reinforcing tube 519 coupled to the bladder 502. The reinforcing tube 519 may be configured to add extra rigidity to sections of the body 501 in order to prevent pinching or contact of the cylindrical sides. The reinforcing tube 519 may reduce the possibility of kinks in the bladder 502. The reinforcing tube 519 may be positioned at a lower portion of the body. As depicted, the reinforcing tube 519 is coupled opposite the coupler 517, however, the reinforcing tube 519 may be mounted elsewhere on the bladder 502 interchangeably.
In one embodiment, the reinforcing tube 519 may couple to ends of the bladder 502 (which may be third ends and fourth ends of the bladder 502).
In some embodiments, the reinforcing tube 519 may be made out of the same material as the bladder 502. In other embodiments, the reinforcing tube 519 may be made out of a rigid or semi-rigid material.
The tube 503 may be configured similarly as the tubes 103, 203, 303, 403 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-4D, and may include similar features as the tubes 103, 203, 303, 403 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-4D. A second end of the tube 503 may be positioned within a cavity of the bladder 502 to facilitate easier removal of fluid within the cavity due to fluid pressure within the cavity, in a similar manner as discussed in regard to the tube 203. The second end of the tube 503 may be an open end that is positioned at a lower portion of the body 501 where the fluid may be pooled due to gravity when the body 501 is worn by a user. The second end of the tube 503 may be positioned within the reinforcing tube 519.
The fluid seal 505 may be configured similarly as the fluid seals 105, 205, 305, 405 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-4D, and may include similar features as the fluid seals 105, 205, 305, 405 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-4D. The personal hydration system 500 may include a fluid port 511 and a cap 513. The fluid port 511 may be configured similarly as the fluid ports 211, 411 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, and may include similar features as the fluid ports 211, 411 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D. The cap 513 may be configured similarly as the caps 213, 413 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, and may include similar features as the caps 213, 413 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D.
In one embodiment, the body 501 may include an outer sheath that extends over the bladder, and may extend over the coupler 517 and the reinforcing tube 519. The outer sheath may be configured similarly as the embodiments of outer sheaths disclosed herein.
FIG. 5B illustrates a close-up view of the coupler 517 separated from the ends of the bladder 502. The openings at the ends of the coupler 517 may have a diameter between 1¾ and 2 inches, although other sizes may be utilized as desired. The opening of the fluid port 511 may have a diameter of 1¼ inch, although other sizes may be utilized as desired. The coupler 517 may have a length of 4 inches, although other sizes may be utilized as desired. The coupler 517 may assist to allow fluid (e.g., water) to fill the body more easily, and act as a filler part of the body.
FIG. 5C illustrates a close-up view of the reinforcing tube 519 separated from the bladder 502. The openings at the ends of the reinforcing tube 519 may have a diameter between 1¾ and 2 inches, although other sizes may be utilized as desired. The reinforcing tube 519 may have a length of between 4 and 6 inches, although other sizes may be utilized as desired.
The features of the personal hydration system 500 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
FIGS. 6A-6C show an embodiment of a personal hydration system 600 in which the tube 603 is coupled to a lower portion of the body 601.
The personal hydration system 600 may include the body 601, the tube 603, and a fluid seal 605.
The body 601 may be configured similarly as the bodies 101, 201, 301, 401, 501 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-5A, and may include similar features as the bodies 101, 201, 301, 401, 501 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-5A. The body 601 may be configured to form a loop around the user's torso and may define a cavity configured to contain fluid. The fluid seal 605 may be configured similarly as the fluid seals 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-5A, and may include similar features as the fluid seals 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-5A.
The personal hydration system 600 may include a fluid port 611 and a cap 613. The fluid port 611 may be configured similarly as the fluid ports 211, 411, 511 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, 5A and 5B, and may include similar features as the fluid ports 211, 411, 511 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, 5A and 5B. The cap 613 may be configured similarly as the caps 213, 413, 513 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, and 5A, and may include similar features as the caps 213, 413, 513 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, and 5A.
The tube 603 may be configured similarly as the tubes 103, 203, 303, 403, 503 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-5A, and may include similar features as the tubes 103, 203, 303, 403, 503 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-5A. The tube 603 here, however, may be coupled to the lower portion of the body 601 and may extend through an opening of the body 601 at the lower portion of the body 601 to be in fluidic communication with the cavity of the body 601. The tube 603 may have a first end 615, a second end 617 opposite the first end 615, and a tube body 619 disposed between the two ends 615, 617. As depicted, the tube body 619 is disposed outside of the body 601. In some embodiments, the second end 617 of the tube 601 may couple to a fitting 621. The fitting 621 may couple to the body 601 such that the tube 603 is in fluidic communication with the cavity. The fitting 621 may pass through an opening in the lower portion of the body 601, so that the tube 603 is in fluidic communication with the fitting 621 and the cavity. The fitting 621 may be a 90 degree fitting, among other types of fittings.
The second end 617 of the tube 603 may be positioned at the lower portion of the body 601 to facilitate easier removal of fluid within the cavity due to fluid pressure within the cavity. The fluid may be pooled due to gravity at the lower portion of the body 601 when the body 601 is worn by a user.
In an embodiment in which the body 601 includes an outer sheath, the fitting 621 may extend through an opening in the outer sheath. The outer sheath may be configured similarly as the embodiments of outer sheaths disclosed herein.
FIG. 6B illustrates the personal hydration system 600 including tube couplers 623 for coupling the tube 603 to the body 601. The tube couplers 623 may be positioned along and coupled to the length of the body 601. A plurality of tube couplers 623 may be utilized (as shown four are utilized, in other embodiments a different number may be utilized). In one embodiment, a single tube coupler 623 may be utilized (one or more tube couplers may be utilized). The tube couplers 623 may couple to various positions along the length of the tube 603, which may be positions between the first end 615 of the tube and the second end 617 of the tube 603. The tube couplers 623 may couple to the tube body 619. The tube couplers 623 may comprise tethers, such as straps that may be elastic, or other forms of couplers for holding the tube 603 to the body 601. In one embodiment, the tube couplers 623 may comprise clips (which may be clamps) or adhesives (such as a hook and loop fastener) for coupling the tube 603 to the body 601. In other embodiments, other forms of tube couplers 623 may be utilized.
FIG. 6C illustrates a side view of the personal hydration system 600, displaying the spaced positioning of the tube couplers 623.
In an embodiment in which the body 601 includes an outer sheath, the tube couplers 623 may couple to the outer sheath. The outer sheath may be configured similarly as the embodiments of outer sheaths disclosed herein.
The features of the personal hydration system 600 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a personal hydration system 700 in which ends 725, 727 of the body 701 are coupled together with a body coupler 729.
The personal hydration system 700 may include the body 701, a tube 703, and a fluid seal 705.
The body 701 may be configured to form a loop around a user's torso and may define a cavity configured to contain fluid. The body 701 may include a bladder 702 (shown in dashed lines in FIG. 7) and an outer sheath 707 extending over the bladder 702 in a similar manner as described in the embodiments of FIGS. 2A and 2B. The bladder 702, however, has a first end 704 and a second end 706 opposite the first end 704. The outer sheath 707, similarly, has a first end and a second end (represented by the first end 725 and second end 727 of the body 701). The first end 704 and second end 706 of the bladder 702 are coupled to each other by the body coupler 729. Similarly, the first end and the second end of the outer sheath (represented by the first end 725 and second end 727 of the body 701), are coupled to each other by the body coupler 729. The body 701 accordingly may comprise a longitudinal body that is configured to form a loop by the ends 725, 727 of the body 701 being coupled together by the body coupler 729. In an embodiment in which the outer sheath 707 is not utilized, the ends of the body 701 may be coupled to each other.
The bladder 702 is configured to form at least part of the loop, and has an interior chamber configured to contain fluid. The bladder may have a flexible side wall, similar to the flexible side wall shown in FIG. 2B.
The body coupler 729 may comprise a device for coupling the ends 725, 727 of the body together. The body coupler 729 may comprise a buckle, as shown in FIG. 7, including a male side release buckle (coupled to the first end 725 of the body 701) and a female side release buckle (coupled to the second end 727 of the body 701). In other embodiments, other forms of body couplers 729, such as hook and look fasteners, cords, adhesives, or other forms of couplers may be utilized. The body coupler 729 may couple to a strap 731. The strap 731 may have an adjustable length such that the length of the body 701 is adjustable.
The tube 703 may be configured similarly as the tubes 103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-6C, and may include similar features as the tubes 103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-6C. A second end 723 of the tube 703 may be positioned within a cavity of the bladder 702 to facilitate easier removal of fluid within the cavity due to fluid pressure within the cavity, in a similar manner as discussed in regard to the tube 203. The second end 723 of the tube 703 may be an open end that is positioned at a lower portion of the body 701 where the fluid may be pooled due to gravity when the body 701 is worn by a user. The first end 721 of the tube 703 may be coupled to the fluid seal 705.
The fluid seal 705 may be configured similarly as the fluid seals 105, 205, 305, 405, 505, 605 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-6C, and may include similar features as the fluid seals 105, 205, 305, 405, 505, 605 discussed in regard to FIGS. 1A-6C.
The personal hydration system 700 may include a fluid port 711 and a cap 713. The fluid port 711 may be configured similarly as the fluid ports 211, 411, 511, 611 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, 5A, and 6A-6C, and may include similar features as the fluid ports 211, 411, 511, 611 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, 5A, and 6A-6C. The cap 713 may be configured similarly as the caps 213, 413, 513, 613 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, 5A, and 6A-6C, and may include similar features as the caps 213, 413, 513, 613 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4A-4D, 5A, and 6A-6C.
The personal hydration system 700 may include a manual pump 709 that may be configured similarly as the manual pump 209 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, and may include similar features as the manual pump 209 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B. The personal hydration system 700 may include a pocket 715 that may be configured similarly as the pockets 215, 415 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, and 4A-4D, and may include similar features as the pockets 215, 415 discussed in regard to FIGS. 2A and 2B, and 4A-4D.
The features of the personal hydration system 700 may be utilized with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
FIG. 8 shows a cross sectional view of a body 801 of a personal hydration system 800.
The body 801 may have an exterior surface 823 and an interior surface 825. The interior surface 825 of the body 801 may have a smooth surface texture. In other embodiments, the interior surface 825 of the body 801 may one or more protrusions 827 extending away from the interior surface 825. The one or more protrusions 827 may be configured to prevent sloshing of the fluid within the body 801. In one embodiment, the surfaces shown may be of a bladder of a personal hydration system disclosed herein. The configuration of surfaces disclosed herein may be used with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
FIG. 9A shows a perspective view of a vent valve 929 coupled to the body 901 of a personal hydration system 900.
The vent valve 929 may be configured to allow air to enter into the body 901 to better facilitate fluid being extracted from the body 901. As a user extracts fluid from the personal hydration system 900 a negative pressure may develop within the body 901. This negative pressure could prevent a user from successfully extracting the fluid from the body 901 and/or having one or more parts of the personal hydration system 900 collapsing under the negative pressure. In order to mitigate this, a vent valve 929 may allow air to enter the body 901 which equalizes the pressure inside the body 901 to the pressure outside of the body 901. The vent valve 929 may be configured to prevent fluid inside the body 901 from exiting the body 901 through the vent valve 929. FIG. 9B illustrates a representation of air 931 entering the vent valve 929 while fluid 933 is prevented from exiting the vent valve 929. The vent valve 929 disclosed herein may be used with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein. For example, the vent valve 929 may be positioned on and used with a body of any of the personal hydration systems disclosed herein, which may include a bladder of any of the personal hydration systems disclosed herein.
FIGS. 10A and 10B show an embodiment of a component 1000 that may be utilized with any of the personal hydration systems disclosed herein.
Component 1000 comprises a tube fitting that may connect the tubes disclosed herein (e.g., tube 103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703) to a body disclosed herein (e.g., body 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701, 801, 901). The component 1000 may include an S-shaped tube 1001, a base 1011, and reinforcing pieces 1013 and 1015. The base 1011 may be coupled to the bodies of personal hydration systems disclosed herein. The base 1011 may be welded or adhered to the body, among other methods of coupling. The base 1011 may have a first face (shown as the top surface in FIG. 10A) and a second face opposite the first face (the second face is opposite the top surface shown in FIG. 10A). The component 1000 may be configured to couple to the bodies of personal hydration systems disclosed herein by the second face being coupled to the exterior surface of the bodies disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the component 1000 may be configured to couple to the bodies of personal hydration systems disclosed herein by the first face being coupled to the interior surface of the bodies disclosed herein. In an embodiment in which the second face is coupled to the exterior surface of the body and the body includes an outer sheath and a bladder, the base 1011 may be sandwiched between the exterior surface of the bladder and the interior surface of the outer sheath.
The S-shaped tube 1001 may be coupled to the base 1011. The S-shaped tube has a first end 1003 and a second end 1005. The first end of the S-shaped tube 1001 may be disposed outside of the bodies of personal hydration systems disclosed herein. The second end of the S-shaped tube 1001 may be disposed within the bodies of personal hydration systems disclosed herein. A first barb set 1007 may be disposed on the first end 1003 of the S-shaped tube 1001 and a second barb set 1009 may be disposed on the second end 1005 of the S-shaped tube 1001. The first barb set 1007 and the second barb set 1009 may be configured to prevent tubes coupled to the first end 1003 and the second end 1005 from becoming detached. The tubes may comprise portions of the tubes disclosed herein (e.g., tube 103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703) that extend exterior of the bodies and may also extend interior of the bodies (such as the tube 203 shown in FIG. 2A).
The first end 1003 of the S-shaped tube 1001 may be configured to couple with a tube that has a fluid seal (such as fluid seal 105, 205, 305, 405, 505, 605, 705) coupled to the tube. The second end 1005 of the S-shaped tube 1001 may be configured to couple with a tube that extends within the bodies of personal hydration systems disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the S-shaped tube 1001 may be made from a rigid material such as a hard plastic. In other embodiments, the S-shaped tube 1001 may be made from the same material as the body of the hydration system.
The reinforcing piece 1013 may be coupled to the S-shaped tube 1001 and the first face of the base 1011 and may provide additional rigidity to component 1000. Similarly reinforcing piece 1015 may be coupled to the S-shaped tube 1001 and the second face of the base 1011 and provide additional rigidity to component 1000. The reinforcing pieces 1013, 1015 may be molded into the component 1000 as it is manufactured.
The component 1000 may be configured such that fluid (e.g., water) is not obstructed as it passed from inside the body to outside the body.
The component 1000 disclosed herein may be used with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
FIG. 10B illustrates dimensions that may be utilized with component 1000. The S-shaped tube 1001 may have a height above the base 1011 of ½ inch, and may have a height below the base 1011 of ½ inch, although other dimensions may be used as desired. The S-shaped tube 1001 may have a diameter of ⅜ inch, although other sizes may be used as desired. The base 1011 may have a thickness of ⅛ inch, although other sizes may be used as desired. The base 1011 may have a length of 1½ inches, and a width of 1¼ inches, although other sizes may be used as desired.
FIG. 11 shows a component 1100 of a personal hydration system. Component 1100 comprises a tube fitting that may connect the tubes disclosed herein (e.g., tube 103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703) to a body disclosed herein (e.g., body 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701, 801, 901).
Component 1100 comprises a first reinforcing piece 1101 and a second reinforcing piece 1103. The reinforcing pieces may be coupled to a body disclosed herein (e.g., body 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701, 801, 901). The first reinforcing piece 1101 may be disposed within the body disclosed herein. The second reinforcing piece 1103 may be disposed outside of the body disclosed herein. The first reinforcing piece 1101 and second reinforcing piece 1103 may sandwich opposite sides of the body (one inside the body and one outside the body). The flanges shown in FIG. 11 may sandwich opposite sides of the body (one inside the body and one outside the body). The first reinforcing piece 1101 and second reinforcing piece 1103 may form a seal of the body.
The second reinforcing piece 1103 may be configured to couple with a tube that has a fluid seal (such as fluid seal 105, 205, 305, 405, 505, 605, 705) coupled to the tube. The first reinforcing piece 1101 may be configured to couple with a tube that extends within the bodies of personal hydration systems disclosed herein. Accordingly, the component 1100 may couple the tubes disclosed herein (e.g., tube 103, 203, 303, 403, 503, 603, 703) to a body disclosed herein (e.g., body 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 701, 801, 901).
In some embodiments, the first reinforcing piece 1101 and the second reinforcing piece 1103 may be made from a rigid material. In other embodiments, the first reinforcing piece 1101 and the second reinforcing piece 1103 may be made from the same material as the fluid container.
The component 1100 disclosed herein may be used with any embodiment of personal hydration system disclosed herein.
The configuration of the personal hydration systems disclosed herein ( e.g. systems 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900) may allow for a lightweight, easy to transport, and compact, source of fluid. The personal hydration systems disclosed herein may be carried over either one of a user's shoulders to facilitate easier access to the fluid seal and greater user comfort. By being ring shaped, the personal hydration systems disclosed herein may facilitate easy removal and positioning for the carrying of a fluid supply. The personal hydration systems disclosed herein may also allow a user to easily reposition the fluid seal by simply rotating the personal hydration system so that the seal does not interfere with other objects carried by the user or adjacent to the user. The user may be able to quickly and easily drink fluid such as water.
FIG. 12 illustrates a user 1201 utilizing the personal hydration system 100. The body 101 of the personal hydration system 100 may form a loop around a user's torso. A first portion 150 (an upper portion) of the body of the personal hydration system may extend over one of the user's shoulders (as shown), and a second portion 152 (a lower portion) may be positioned at or near an opposite hip of the user 1201. The body 101 of the personal hydration system (the portions between the first portion 150 and the second portion 152) may extend diagonally across the user's 1201 body. In other embodiments, the body 101 of the personal hydration system 100 may form a loop around a user's 1201 torso by being slung over a shoulder of the user's 1201 torso and hanging over the hip of the user 1201 on the same side as that shoulder. The personal hydration system 100 may comprise a convenient means that can carry fluid such as water for a user 1201 to drink. The user 1201 may be able to quickly place the personal hydration system 100 over the user's 1201 torso and carry it around without greatly reducing the user's 1201 mobility or otherwise interfering with the motion of his or her arms. The user 1201 may refill the personal hydration system 100 with fluid as desired. The tube 103 may be placed in a location for a user 1201 to conveniently drink from the personal hydration system 100.
The use of the personal hydration system that is shown in FIG. 12 may be similar for the other embodiments of personal hydration systems disclosed herein.
The features of the embodiments of personal hydration systems disclosed herein may be interchanged, substituted, modified, or excluded as desired. The scope of the disclosure is not limited to the personal hydration systems disclosed herein, but also extends to the methods of utilizing the personal hydration systems.
In closing, it is to be understood that although aspects of the present specification are highlighted by referring to specific embodiments, one skilled in the art will readily appreciate that these disclosed embodiments are only illustrative of the principles of the subject matter disclosed herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the disclosed subject matter is in no way limited to a particular methodology, protocol, and/or reagent, etc., described herein. As such, various modifications or changes to or alternative configurations of the disclosed subject matter can be made in accordance with the teachings herein without departing from the spirit of the present specification. Lastly, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of systems, apparatuses, and methods as disclosed herein, which is defined solely by the claims. Accordingly, the systems, apparatuses, and methods are not limited to that precisely as shown and described.
Certain embodiments of systems, apparatuses, and methods are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the same. Of course, variations on these described embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventor expects skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the systems, apparatuses, and methods to be practiced otherwise than specifically described herein. Accordingly, the systems, apparatuses, and methods include all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described embodiments in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the systems, apparatuses, and methods unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.
Groupings of alternative embodiments, elements, or steps of the systems, apparatuses, and methods are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member may be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other group members disclosed herein. It is anticipated that one or more members of a group may be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.
Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing a characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, term, and so forth used in the present specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” As used herein, the term “about” means that the characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term so qualified encompasses an approximation that may vary, yet is capable of performing the desired operation or process discussed herein.
The terms “a,” “an,” “the” and similar referents used in the context of describing the systems, apparatuses, and methods (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein is intended merely to better illuminate the systems, apparatuses, and methods and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the systems, apparatuses, and methods otherwise claimed. No language in the present specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the systems, apparatuses, and methods.
All patents, patent publications, and other publications referenced and identified in the present specification are individually and expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for the purpose of describing and disclosing, for example, the compositions and methodologies described in such publications that might be used in connection with the systems, apparatuses, and methods. These publications are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing in this regard should be construed as an admission that the inventors are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention or for any other reason. All statements as to the date or representation as to the contents of these documents is based on the information available to the applicants and does not constitute any admission as to the correctness of the dates or contents of these documents.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A personal hydration system comprising:

a body configured to form a loop around a user's torso, the body defining a cavity configured to contain fluid;

a tube in fluidic communication with the cavity; and

a fluid seal coupled to the tube and configured to selectively allow fluid to pass through the tube.

2. The personal hydration system of claim 1, wherein the body has an adjustable circumference.

3. The personal hydration system of claim 1, wherein the body further comprises an outer sheath coupled to an inner bladder that defines the cavity, and the outer sheath is configured to form a complete loop around the user's torso.

4. The personal hydration system of claim 1, further comprising a fluid port in fluidic communication with the cavity, and the tube couples to the fluid port.

5. The personal hydration system of claim 1, wherein the tube has a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end of the tube being configured to be disposed outside of the body, the second end of the tube extending within the cavity and being configured to be in fluidic communication with the cavity.

6. The personal hydration system of claim 1, wherein the tube includes a first set of barbs located at a first end of the tube and a second set of barbs located at the second end of the tube.

7. The personal hydration system of claim 1, further comprising a set of straps coupled to the body.

8. A personal hydration system comprising:

a body configured to form a loop, the body having a bladder that is configured to form at least part of the loop, the bladder having an interior chamber configured to contain fluid and a fluid port in fluidic communication with the interior chamber; and

a fluid seal in fluidic communication with the interior chamber and configured to selectively allow fluid to pass through the fluid port.

9. The personal hydration system of claim 8, wherein the bladder forms a complete loop.

10. The personal hydration system of claim 9, wherein the interior chamber forms a continuous chamber.

11. The personal hydration system of claim 8, further comprising a tube having a first end and a second end, the first end being coupled to the fluid seal, the second end being coupled to the fluid port.

12. The personal hydration system of claim 11, wherein the second end of the tube extends within the interior chamber of the bladder.

13. The personal hydration system of claim 8, further comprising a second fluid seal in fluidic communication with the interior chamber of the bladder and configured to selectively allow fluid to pass through a second fluid port.

14. The personal hydration system of claim 8, wherein the body includes an outer sheath that has an adjustable circumference.

15. A personal hydration system comprising:

a body configured to form a loop, the body having a bladder configured to contain fluid, the bladder having a first end, a second end opposite the first end, an interior chamber, a flexible side wall that surrounds the interior chamber, and a fluid port in fluidic communication with the interior chamber, the first end being configured to couple to the second end;

a tube having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end of the tube configured to be in fluidic communication with the interior chamber of the bladder; and

a cap configured to couple to the fluid port and form a fluid-tight seal.

16. The personal hydration system of claim 15, wherein the first end of the bladder is removably coupled to the second end of the bladder.

17. The personal hydration system of claim 15, wherein the body includes an outer sheath.

18. The personal hydration system of claim 17, further comprising an insulating sheath disposed between the bladder and the outer sheath.

19. The personal hydration system of claim 15, further comprising a manual pump coupled to the bladder and configured to pressurize the interior chamber to facilitate easier extraction of fluid.

20. The personal hydration system of claim 15, further comprising a vent valve coupled to the body, the vent valve being configured to allow air to enter into the body while preventing fluid from exiting the vent valve.