CN110382099B

CN110382099B - Faucet and aerator apparatus

Info

Publication number: CN110382099B
Application number: CN201780072486.1A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 纳撒尼尔·T·罗伯茨
Original assignee: Amnity LLC
Current assignee: Amnity LLC
Priority date: 2016-09-26
Filing date: 2017-09-26
Publication date: 2021-11-05
Anticipated expiration: 2037-09-26
Also published as: CN110382099A; ZA201902626B; AU2017332808B2; WO2018058142A1; EP3515580A4; AU2017332808A1; EP3515580A1

Abstract

The faucet apparatus (500) includes: a container coupling portion (504) including a liquid inlet portion (518), a body portion (508), and a plug valve portion (510). The body portion (508) includes a liquid outlet portion (538), wherein the liquid outlet portion (538) is in fluid communication with the liquid inlet portion (518) of the container coupling portion (504). The plug valve portion (510) is constructed and arranged to be disposed within the body portion (508), wherein the plug valve portion (510) is constructed and arranged to move relative to the body portion (508) between an open position in which liquid is free to flow from the liquid inlet portion (518) and out through the liquid outlet portion (538), and a closed position in which liquid from the liquid inlet portion (518) is prevented from flowing out through the liquid outlet portion (538). The body portion (508) also includes a plurality of flow channels (536) disposed in an inner surface thereof.

Description

Faucet and aerator apparatus

Priority declaration

This U.S. non-provisional patent application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. serial No. 14/846,206 filed on 9, 4, 2015, AND this application also claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application 62/399,687 entitled "TAP AND AERATOR APPARATUS" filed on 9, 26, 2016 AND U.S. provisional patent application 62/400,335 entitled "TAP AND AERATOR APPARATUS" filed on 9, 27, 2016, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by this reference as if fully set forth. The parent application (serial No. 14/846,206) claims us provisional patent application 62/048,548 entitled "BOX WINE TAP AERATOR CONTROL" filed on 9/10/2014, us provisional patent application 62/065,488 entitled "BOX WINE TAP AERATOR CONTROL HOLE PLACEMENT" filed on 10/17/2014, us provisional patent application 3982 entitled "TAP WITH INTEGRATED AERATOR CONTROL HOLE plan", filed on 21/1/2015, AERATION controller, AND AERATION blower bonding (faucet with integrated AERATOR, AERATION REGULATOR AND CONTAINER label) "filed on us provisional patent application 62/105,962 filed on 6/8/2015, entitled" LIQUID DISPENSER WITH INTEGRATED AERATION circulation AND AERATION OF us provisional patent application 62/201,603 filed on us 8/6 with integrated AERATOR AND AERATION REGULATION ", they are proposed by the sole inventor, Nathaniel Travis Roberts, the contents of which are expressly incorporated herein by this reference as if fully set forth.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to faucets and aerator apparatuses and, more particularly, to vessel faucets and aerator apparatuses with aerator inlets that can be switched between open and closed positions.

Background

The venturi effect is a phenomenon that occurs when fluid flowing through a pipe is forced through a constriction, resulting in a reduction in pressure and an increase in velocity. In particular, the fluid must accelerate in the constriction in order to keep the total flow rate the same. However, because the amount of fluid entering the tube at a certain time must be the same as the amount of fluid exiting, the fluid must move faster through the constriction in order for sufficient fluid to flow within a specified time. Furthermore, since the fluid flows faster in the constriction, the bernoulli principle states that the pressure in the constriction should be lower than the external pressure. In particular, the high pressure prior to constriction may cause the fluid to accelerate into the low pressure region of the constriction, and the high pressure after constriction may reduce the velocity of the fluid as it exits the constriction. Thus, when fluid is forced through the constriction, the increased flow rate is accompanied by a pressure drop. Many industrial applications such as wine aerators take advantage of this pressure drop to draw air into the fluid.

As most alcohol enthusiasts know, one of the most common ways to improve the taste of alcohol immediately prior to consumption is by aeration. Aeration expands the surface area of the wine, allowing air to mix with the wine. This results in a wine with extended aroma characteristics. Aeration of the wine may be performed by exploiting the venturi effect, which helps to draw air into the wine.

The main candidate for aeration is wine in boxes because of its poor quality compared to bottled wine. Boxed wine is basically a bag of wine in a box, comprising an integrated tap that is enclosed on the inside or side of the box. It is important that the box has an open shelf life due to the permeability of the bag, the tap and the rate of consumption of liquid. In particular, packaging often allows small amounts of oxygen to enter the wine, and this air can eventually lead to excessive oxidation and spoilage of the wine. Although aeration generally enhances wine by oxidation, in some cases, such as already oxidized wine, it may be disadvantageous to aerate the wine so that it becomes over-oxidized.

Due to the large volume of wine in the wine box, the pressure drop at the valve can be very high. Thus, if the venturi opening is placed directly at the narrowest point of the valve (such as shown in U.S. published patent application 2012/0199013 filed by Gutierrez), the venturi effect may be too strong and the amount of air drawn into the wine may cause the wine to be over oxidized. Furthermore, the jets described in the Gutierrez reference can dramatically reduce the flow rate in order to directly take advantage of the venturi effect. In some cases, the flow may drop by as much as 50%. Thus, it may take longer for a user to pour an appropriate amount of fluid.

Accordingly, there is a need for a faucet apparatus that: (1) providing proper aeration amount; (2) with controls to turn aeration on and off; and (3) does not significantly affect the flow rate of the primary fluid. Aeration control may be a mechanism to control the amount of air drawn through to aerate the liquid. The faucet assembly may also provide the ability to notify the consumer when the aerator is not being used for optimal liquid flavor.

Disclosure of Invention

To minimize the limitations in the cited references, and to minimize other limitations that will become apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, the present specification discloses a new and improved faucet and aerator apparatus. The faucet assembly may be a vessel faucet and an aerator assembly, wherein the aerator inlet is switchable between an open position and a closed position.

One embodiment may be a faucet and aerator apparatus, comprising: a container coupling portion; a chamber; one or more aerator sections; a regulator cap; a spout; a valve; and a control section. The container coupling portion may be configured to couple with a container. The container contains a liquid, which may preferably be wine. The control member may be configured to allow liquid to pass from the container, through the valve, into the chamber, and out of the spout. The regulator cap may be configured to be removed from the faucet and aerator apparatus. The one or more aerator sections may be placed in an open position when the regulator cap may be removed from the faucet and aerator device. When the regulator cap is on the apparatus, the aerator section is turned off. These aerator sections may be located generally with the chamber and remote from the valve. When the aerator section can be opened and when liquid is passed through the chamber, liquid flowing out of the spout can be aerated by air passing through the one or more aerator sections. The control component may include a plunger and an O-ring, wherein the plunger and O-ring may be configured to form a releasable seal with the valve such that liquid may be allowed to pass through the valve when the control component may be articulated. The regulator cap may be removably connected to the faucet and aerator apparatus. Alternatively, the regulator cap may be displaceable from the faucet and aerator apparatus. The control component may control the flow of liquid from the container through the valve. When the regulator cap is not removed, liquid passing through the chamber is not aerated. The faucet and aerator apparatus allows a user to aerate and access liquid with one hand. Air may be drawn through the aerator section by the swirling force created by the liquid passing through the chamber. The container may include instructions to the user as to when to remove the regulator cap when pouring the liquid.

Another embodiment may be a faucet and aerator apparatus, comprising: a container coupling portion; a chamber; one or more aerator sections; a regulator cap; a spout; a valve; and a control component. The container coupling portion may be configured to couple with a liquid container. The control component may include a plunger and an O-ring. The plunger and O-ring may be configured to form a releasable seal with the valve such that when the control member is articulated, liquid may be permitted to pass from the container, through the valve, into the chamber and out of the spout. The control component may control the flow of liquid from the container through the valve. The regulator cap may be configured to be removed from the faucet and aerator apparatus. The one or more aerator sections may be placed in an open position when the regulator cap is removed from the faucet and aerator device. The one or more aerator sections may be positioned generally with the chamber and remote from the valve. When the one or more aerator sections are open and when liquid is passed through the chamber, liquid flowing out of the spout may be aerated by air passing through the one or more aerator sections. Air may be drawn through the aerator section by the swirling force created by the liquid passing through the chamber. When the regulator cap is not removed, liquid passing through the chamber is not aerated. The faucet and aerator apparatus allows a user to aerate and access liquid with one hand. The regulator cap may be removably connected to the faucet and aerator apparatus via a hinge. The regulator cap may be displaceable from the faucet and aerator apparatus. The container includes instructions to the user as to when to remove the regulator cap when pouring the liquid. The container comprises a wine box.

It is an object to provide an aerator faucet with aerator inlets that can be located at valves or in jets.

It is an object to provide an aerator faucet with an aerator inlet that can be closed or opened.

Another object is to provide an aerator faucet that can be manipulated by a single hand of a user while allowing the aerator inlet to be opened, closed, or in a switching position. In addition, the faucet assembly may provide the manufacturer with the ability to notify the consumer when to not use the aerator for optimal liquid flavor.

It is an object to overcome the limitations of the prior art.

Other features and advantages will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

Drawings

The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments, but do not depict all embodiments. Other embodiments may be used in addition to or in place of the illustrative embodiments. Details that may be obvious or unnecessary may be omitted for the sake of space saving or more efficient illustration. Some embodiments may be practiced with additional components or steps and/or without some or all of the components or steps provided in the illustrations. When the same number is included in different drawings, the same or similar components or steps are denoted by the same number.

Fig. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of one embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus.

Fig. 2 is an illustration of a front view of one embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus.

Fig. 3 is a schematic of a side view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus.

Fig. 4 is an illustration of a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus.

Fig. 5 is an illustration of a top exploded view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus.

Fig. 6 is a schematic of a cross-sectional exploded side view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus.

Fig. 7 is an illustration of a bottom view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus.

Fig. 8 is a schematic of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus coupled to a vessel.

Fig. 9 is a side view of another embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus.

Fig. 10 is an exploded side view of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 11 is a top perspective view of the major components of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 12 is a top view of the major components of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 13 is a side view of a plug valve portion of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 14 and 15 are two top perspective views of the plug valve portion of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 16 is a top perspective view of an obturator of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 17 is a bottom perspective view of an obturator of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 18 is a bottom perspective view of a crown of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 19 is a top perspective view of a crown of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 20 is an exploded cross-sectional side view of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9.

Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional side view of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9, showing the plug valve in a closed position and the obturator in a closed position.

Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional side view of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9, showing the plug valve in an open position and the obturator in a closed position.

Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional side view of the faucet and aerator apparatus of fig. 9, showing the plug valve in an open position and the obturator in an open position.

Detailed Description

In the following detailed description of various embodiments, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of various aspects of the embodiments. However, embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well-known processes and/or components have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the embodiments.

Although some embodiments are disclosed herein, other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art as a result of the detailed description below. These embodiments are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of protection. The drawings and their detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive. Furthermore, references to specific embodiments or not should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection.

In the following description, certain terminology is used to describe certain features of one or more embodiments. For purposes of this specification, unless otherwise specified, the term "substantially" refers to the complete or nearly complete range or degree of an action, feature, attribute, state, structure, item, or result. For example, in one embodiment, an object that is "substantially" within the enclosure would mean that the object is completely or almost completely within the enclosure. In some cases, the exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute integrity may depend on the particular situation. However, in general, a full proximity will have the same overall result as if absolute and overall completeness were obtained. The use of "substantially" when used in a negative sense is equally applicable to a lack of an action, feature, attribute, state, structure, item, or result, either entirely or nearly entirely.

As used herein, the terms "approximately" and "about" generally refer to a deviation within 5% of the indicated number or range of numbers. In one embodiment, the terms "approximately" and "about" may refer to a deviation between 1-10% from the indicated number or range of numbers.

Fig. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of one embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus. The faucet and aerator device 100 can be coupled to a container to facilitate aeration and distribution of liquids. The faucet and aerator fixture 100 can be made of any material, including but not limited to plastic, polymer, resin, thixotropic and/or liquid silicone rubber. In one embodiment, the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 can be used to supply wine. Thus, the material of the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 can be food grade material. It should be noted that other embodiments described herein may also be made of the same materials described with respect to this embodiment. As shown in fig. 1, the apparatus 100 may include a finger grip 105, a control feature 110, an access opening (or liquid inlet portion) 115, a container coupling portion 120, a valve 130, a chamber 135 (shown in fig. 4), a spout (or liquid outlet portion) 140, a coupler ring 145, and a regulator cap 150.

In one embodiment, the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 can be configured to be coupled to a fluid container. Once the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 is coupled to the vessel, a user can initiate liquid flow from the vessel and through the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 with a single hand by holding the finger grip 105 and pressing the control 110. The control component 110 can be designed to dispense liquid from the container such that when a user depresses the control component 110, the piston, plunger, rod, and/or other valve actuation mechanism can be actuated, which in turn can release the seal, valve, or closure component. As shown here, the control component 110 may be constructed as a unitary piece or as several parts. The liquid may be contained entirely within the container and container coupling portion 120 prior to releasing the valve sealing closure member. In one embodiment, container coupling portion 120 may be substantially contained within the container such that coupling ring 145 may be substantially flush with respect to the container. In another embodiment, the container coupling portion 120 may be removably connected to a fastener or neck of the container. Once the user releases the valve seal closure member, liquid can flow from the container through the faucet and aerator fixture 100, causing the liquid to flow through the opening 115 of the container coupling portion 120, through the valve 130 into the chamber 135, and out the spout 140. In one embodiment, the spout 140 may be designed to direct the liquid flow in a downward direction.

The valve 130 may be designed to be narrow so that the pressure generated may be reduced and the velocity may be increased as the liquid passes through. Additionally, as shown in fig. 1, a regulator cap 150 that may cover or house the aerator section may be located above the jet ports 140 or directly off of the jet ports 140. This may allow the aerator section to provide aeration to the liquid passing through the chamber 135 when the regulator cap is open. Otherwise, the user may prevent aeration by simply closing or sealing the regulator cap 150. The regulator cap 150 may be completely removable, removably connected, and/or displaceable from the faucet and aerator apparatus 100. One embodiment of the regulator cap 150 may be completely removable such that a user may remove the regulator cap 150 and set it aside to place the faucet and aerator fixture 100 in an open position. However, in this embodiment, the regulator cap 150 should not be configured to be reconnected to the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 as in its previous position. Another embodiment may be a removably attachable regulator cap 150 such that a user may remove the cap 150 from the faucet and aerator fixture 100 to turn on the aerator section. However, unlike the previous embodiment, the regulator cap 150 may be reconnected to the apparatus 100 to turn off the aerator section.

The third embodiment of the regulator cap 150 may be displaceable. In this embodiment, the regulator cap 150 may be partially or completely removed from the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 such that the aerator is partially open, but the cap 150 remains attached to the faucet and aerator apparatus 100. The cap 150 may remain attached by one or more hinges or sliding sides such that the cap pivots outward or pops upward. When the user wants to turn off the aerator section, the user flips or pushes the cap 150 down and reconnects it to the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 so that the aerator section is turned off. Alternatively, instead of hinges, the regulator cap 150 may be tethered to the faucet and aerator apparatus 100.

In one embodiment, the aerator section may be exposed after the regulator cap 150 has been removed. This may allow the user to close or seal the aperture using his or her finger or other object. Although fig. 1 illustrates the regulator cap 150 as a form-fitting cap, various embodiments of the regulator cap 150 may include, but are not limited to, a plug, an adhesive strip, a sleeve, a cup, a protrusion, and/or an insert. The regulator cap 150 may be held securely or loosely in place via friction, adhesive, snaps, or one or more removable devices.

In a preferred embodiment (as shown in fig. 8), the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 can be mounted or coupled to a wine box. In this embodiment, the faucet and aerator device 100 can release wine from the wine box under normal or aerated conditions. Aeration of the wine will preferably allow the wine to interact with the atmosphere in order to oxidize certain chemicals, such as tannins, naturally contained in the wine that would otherwise impair the taste of the wine.

Fig. 2 is an illustration of a front view of one embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus. Fig. 2 shows that the faucet and aerator apparatus can include a finger grip 105, a control 110, a spout 140, and a coupler ring 145. The user may dispense liquid from the container by holding the finger grip 105 and pressing the control 110 so as to initiate liquid flow from the container through the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 and out the spout 140. In one embodiment, as shown, the control component 110 may be a pressure or spring loaded button that, when depressed, allows fluid to flow into the chamber 135. When released and no longer depressed by the user, the control 110 may return to its initial state. The control component 110 may be any type of mechanism for controlling the flow of liquid including, but not limited to, a button, a ball valve stem, a pump, a twist valve handle, a lever, a plunger, a pull button, a slide bar, a latch, a switch, a digital switch, and/or a knob.

Fig. 3 is a schematic of a side view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus. As shown in fig. 3, one embodiment of the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 can include a finger grip 105, a control 110, an access opening 115, a vessel coupling portion 120, a valve 130, a chamber 135, a spout 140, a coupling ring 145, and a regulator cap 150.

Fig. 4 is an illustration of a cross-sectional side view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus. As shown in fig. 4, one embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus 100 can include: finger grip 105, control feature 110, access opening 115, container coupling portion 120, valve 130, chamber 135, spout 140, coupling ring 145, regulator cap 150, hinge 151, plunger (or plug valve) 300, O-ring 302, and aerator portion 305. Fig. 4 shows how the control component 110 may be a button that, when pushed or depressed, forces the plunger 300 inwardly such that the fluid pressure 400 is overcome and fluid passes from the inlet opening 115 through the valve 130 into the chamber 135. The fluid may then flow out of the spout 140. When the regulator cap 150 is removed, the fluid in the chamber 135 may create a vortex, cyclone, or suction that pulls air over the aerator section 305, as shown, the aerator section 305 may be a hollow tube. In this way, if the user chooses to aerate, the liquid being poured is aerated and only aerated.

When the user stops articulating the control 110, the fluid pressure 400 causes the plunger 300 to engage the O-ring 302 to form a seal with the valve 130, thereby preventing or stopping the flow of liquid out of the container. In alternative embodiments, the plunger 300 and control component 110, which may be an integral part or composed of several distinct but coupled parts, may be urged toward the closed/outward position via a spring or other mechanical means. The spring may be located within the cavity 399 such that the spring forces the plunger 300 and the control component 110 outward. The O-ring 302 may be a rubber O-ring, or may be a seal, gasket, or any device that forms a liquid-tight and/or gas-tight seal at or near the valve 130.

In an alternative embodiment, spout 140 may be further constricted or shielded at its opening to partially restrict liquid flow out of chamber 135. This alternative embodiment is in contrast to the preferred embodiment, in which the flow of liquid from the vessel is unchanged or only minimally altered by engagement of the aerator section 306. Preferably, chamber 135 and jet 140 do not contract and do not cause a flow drop when aerator section 306 is open. The preferred embodiment has open and uninhibited air intake that compensates for both flows.

Fig. 5 is an illustration of a top exploded view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus. As shown in fig. 4, the apparatus 100 may include: finger grip 105, control component 110, access opening 115, container coupling portion 120, valve 130, chamber 135, coupler ring 145, regulator cap 150, plunger 300, and O-ring 302.

Fig. 6 is a schematic of a cross-sectional exploded side view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus. As shown in fig. 4, one embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus 100 can include: finger grip 105, control feature 110, access opening 115, container coupling portion 120, valve 130, chamber 135, spout 140, coupling ring 145, regulator cap 150, plunger 300, O-ring 302, and aerator portion 305. Fig. 5 and 6 also show how portions of the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 engage and mate together.

Fig. 7 is an illustration of a bottom view of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus. As shown in fig. 7, one embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus 100 can include: chamber 135, jet 140, plunger 300,

aerator sections

305, 306, and chamber backing 307. Fig. 7 shows how the control component 110 may be a button that, when pushed or depressed, forces the plunger 300 inwardly such that the fluid pressure 400 is overcome and fluid may pass from the inlet opening 115 through the valve 130 into the chamber 135. The fluid may then exit the spout 140. When the regulator cap 150 is removed, the fluid in the chamber 135 may create a vortex or suction that pulls air over the

aerator sections

305, 306, as shown, the

aerator sections

305, 306 may be hollow tubes. The chamber backing 307 may define the top of the chamber 135. Although the

aerator sections

305, 306 are shown as being generally perpendicular to the valve 130, the

aerator sections

305, 306 may be disposed at any angle to enable aeration. Also, in some embodiments, aerator section 305 may be shorter or longer depending on how much aeration is desired.

In one embodiment, the aerator section 305 can be located on or near the valve 130. In this embodiment, maximum aeration is desired.

Fig. 8 is a schematic of an embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus coupled to a vessel. Fig. 8 illustrates that the container 802 may be a bag in a box configured to hold a fluid, such as wine. The bag may be designed to be somewhat gas permeable so that oxygen can enter the bag to oxidize the wine. Fig. 8 illustrates how the faucet and aerator apparatus 100 can be coupled to a container 802. Additionally, instructions 808 may be provided to the user to inform him or her of the time period for wine consumption. Specifically, the instructions 808 may inform the user to: preferably, the wine is aerated before a certain date, or before/after a certain duration has elapsed since the first contact with the wine. In this way, the user can be prevented from over-oxidizing the wine. Fig. 8 also shows that the user can hold the finger grip 105 with a single hand and press the control means 110 so that wine begins to flow from the bag through the valve 130 into the chamber 135 and then out the spout 140.

Turning now to fig. 9-23, another embodiment of the present faucet and aerator apparatus is shown and will be described. Fig. 9 is a side view of this embodiment of a faucet and aerator apparatus designated as apparatus 500, and fig. 10 is an exploded view of the components of the apparatus 500. The apparatus 500 comprises a main member 502 consisting of: a container coupling portion 504 (which functions similarly to container coupling portions of other embodiments, such as container coupling portion 120); a body portion 508; and a bridge portion 506 for communicating fluid between the container coupling portion 504 and the body portion 508.

The apparatus 500 further comprises: a plug valve portion 501 constructed and arranged to be positioned within a body portion 508 of the primary member 402; and an aerator 512 for selectively regulating the flow of air into the body portion 508. The aerator 512 of this embodiment includes an obturator (or cap) 514 and a crown 516.

Turning now to fig. 10-12, the construction of this embodiment of the primary member 502 will be described. The container coupling portion 504 of the main member 502 preferably has a generally cylindrical configuration defining a hollow liquid inlet portion 518 for receiving liquid from a container to which the container coupling portion 504 is coupled in a manner similar to that described with respect to the other embodiments. As in the other embodiments, the container coupling portion 504 of this embodiment may include: one or more circumferential ribs 520 to help hold the device in place when inserted into a container; and an enlarged ring 522 having a rear end surface 524, the rear end surface 524 to be seated flush against the container wall to facilitate proper positioning relative to the container.

The hollow liquid inlet portion 518, which is preferably generally cylindrical in this embodiment, is in fluid communication with a hollow interior portion 526 (fig. 11) of the bridge portion 506, and the bridge portion 506 may also optionally include an enlarged portion 528, the enlarged portion 528 tapering toward the body portion 508 to create a desired fluid pressure within the passageway. In this embodiment, the hollow interior portion 526 (fig. 11) of the bridge portion 506 has a generally oval cross-section and has a reduced cross-sectional area compared to the cross-sectional area of the portion of the passageway at the intersection of the container coupling portion 504 and the bridge portion 506.

As can be seen in fig. 9 and 10, the body portion 508 may be considered to be divided into a lower body portion 508A and an upper body portion 508B separated by an annular shoulder 530. The outer peripheral surface of the upper body portion 508B preferably includes a pair of angled grooves 532 (only one groove 532 is visible in fig. 9 and 10) that are constructed and arranged to cooperate with a pair of inwardly projecting protrusions 534 on the plug valve portion 510 as can be seen in fig. 15 (only one protrusion 534 is visible) to enable the plug valve portion 510 to rotate between an open position and a closed position relative to the body portion 508 as described below.

Fig. 11 and 12 show that the inner surface of body portion 508 includes a plurality of flow channels 536. The flow channels 536 are each preferably formed as a groove within an annular inner flange 540, the annular inner flange 540 being located within the interior of the lower body portion 508A, with the base of each groove being inclined radially inwardly so as to direct fluid passing through each groove downwardly and radially inwardly. In this embodiment, eight flow channels 536 are provided and are equally spaced from one another around the inner periphery of the lower body portion 508A. However, it is contemplated that a different number of flow channels (i.e., more or less than eight) may be provided, and/or that the flow channels may be unevenly spaced (such as having no flow channels near portion 526 and only flow channels on the distal side of portion 526, or having few flow channels near portion 526 and a greater number of flow channels formed on the distal side of portion 526). As described more fully below, the flow channels 536 direct fluid downward through the liquid outlet portion 538.

Turning now to fig. 9, 10 and 3-15, the plug valve portion 510 of this embodiment will be described. As can be seen in fig. 9 and 10, the plug valve portion 510 is constructed and arranged to be positioned within the body portion 508. The side view of fig. 13 illustrates how the plug valve section 510 includes a pair of lower beads 542 (labeled 542A and 542B) and a pair of upper beads 544 (labeled 544A and 544B). Each of the sealing strips (542A, 542B, 544A and 544B) is preferably formed by an annular projection extending radially outwardly from the radially outer surface of the plug valve portion 510. As can be seen in fig. 13, the upper sealing strips 544A/544B are formed on an upper cylindrical portion 546 of the plug valve portion 510 and the lower sealing strips 542A/542B are formed on a lower cylindrical portion 548 of the plug valve portion 510, wherein the outer diameter of the upper cylindrical portion 546 is larger than the outer diameter of the lower cylindrical portion 548. Although the bottom bead 542 and the top bead 544 are each shown as a pair of beads in this embodiment, it is contemplated that a single bead may be used for the top bead, and a single bead may be used for the bottom bead; more than two strips may be used for the lower sealing strip and more than two strips may be used for the upper sealing strip; and a different number of strips may be used for the upper strip than the lower strip, such as using a single strip for the upper strip and two or more strips for the lower strip, or vice versa.

Upper bead 544A/544B is constructed and arranged to sealingly contact an inner peripheral portion 550 (FIG. 20) of body portion 508 at a region above hollow interior portion 526, and lower bead 542A/542B is constructed and arranged to sealingly contact an inner peripheral portion 552 (FIG. 20) of body portion 508 at a region below the lower terminus of flow passage 536. It should be noted that the lower seal 542A/542B is only in sealing contact with the inner peripheral portion 552 when the plug valve portion 510 is lowered into the closed position, as described below, but as also described below, the upper seal 544A/544B is in sealing contact with the portion 550 whether the plug valve portion 510 is in the closed position (i.e., the lowered position) or the open position (i.e., the raised position). As described more fully below, the plug valve portion 510 may be rotated between open and closed positions by a user, and to facilitate such rotation, a plurality of ridges 554 (or other types of textured surfaces) may be provided on an upper portion of the plug valve portion 510. Further, in some embodiments, a snap lock feature may be provided to enable a user to confirm that the plug valve portion 510 is locked into the fully closed position. Fig. 10 shows two inclined ridges 509 on the upper cylindrical edge of body portion 508, wherein the inclined ridges 509 are constructed and arranged to: when the plug valve portion 510 is rotated into a closed position relative to the body portion 508, it contacts and "snaps" with a corresponding pair of downward facing ridges 511 (fig. 22, in which only one ridge 511 is shown).

Fig. 14 and 15 show that the plug valve portion 510 further includes: a pair of lower bearing surfaces 556 constructed and arranged to receive the shaft portion of the obturator 514 (fig. 10, 16, and 17) as described below; and a pair of cut-out portions 558 also constructed and arranged to receive the legs (fig. 10, 18, and 19) of the crown member 516, as described below.

Fig. 10, 16 and 17 show an obturator 514 which can be pivoted to adjust the level of aeration provided between a level at which substantially no aeration is provided and a maximum aeration level, during which various intermediate aeration levels are available. In particular, the obturator 514 includes a pair of shaft portions 560, the pair of shaft portions 560 being constructed and arranged to be seated on a lower bearing surface 556 (fig. 15) of the plug valve portion such that the obturator 514 is pivotable by a user via finger tabs 562.

Turning now to fig. 9, 10, 18 and 19, the basic configuration of the crown member 516 will be discussed. The crown member 516 is constructed and arranged to be positioned on the plug valve portion 510, and it is also constructed and arranged to hold the obturator 514 in place within the device 500. The crown member 516 includes a pair of legs 564 that are configured and arranged to mate with the channel 566 (fig. 14 and 15) formed in the plug valve portion 510. It should be noted that the channel 566 (fig. 14 and 15) is formed radially inwardly from the inwardly projecting protrusion 534 (fig. 14 and 15) and thus the legs 564 do not prevent the protrusion 534 from being slidably disposed within the angled groove 532 (fig. 9-11) of the body portion 508 when the legs 564 of the crown 516 mate with the channel 566.

Fig. 18 and 19 also show that the crown member 516 includes a pair of ears 568 extending downwardly from the ring-shaped body portion 574. The lowermost surface of the ears 568 may be considered an upper bearing surface 570 for bearing on the top surface of the shaft portion 560 (fig. 16 and 17) of the obturator 514. In this way, the upper bearing surfaces 570 of the ears 568 of the crown member 516 (fig. 18 and 19) cooperate with the lower bearing surfaces 556 (fig. 14 and 15) of the plug valve portion 510 to fully surround and support the shaft 560 (fig. 16 and 17) of the obturator 514 so that the obturator 514 can pivot relative to the plug valve portion 510 to adjust the amount of aeration.

The crown member 516 also includes a central opening 572 and preferably two notches 576 within the central opening 572 for receiving finger tabs 562 (fig. 10, 16, and 17) of the obturator 514, with one notch configured to receive the finger tabs 562 when the obturator 514 is pivoted to the fully open position and the other notch configured to receive the finger tabs 562 when the obturator 514 is pivoted to the fully closed position.

Turning now to the cross-sectional views of fig. 20-23, the operation of this embodiment of the faucet and aerator apparatus 500 will be described. Briefly, with respect to fig. 20-23, fig. 20 depicts an exploded cross-sectional view of the device 500; FIG. 21 depicts a cross-sectional view of the plug valve portion 510 lowered into a closed position; fig. 22 depicts a cross-sectional view of the plug valve portion 510 raised into an open position and the obturator 514 in a closed position; and fig. 23 depicts a cross-sectional view (from the side opposite fig. 22) of the plug valve portion 510 raised into the open position and the obturator 514 also in the open position to allow maximum aeration.

In operation, the faucet and aerator device 500, which has been mounted on a container (such as the container 802 of fig. 8), as is known in the art, by inserting the container coupling portion 504 through a relatively rigid cylindrical filler neck of a bag-like member holding liquid (such as wine), is preferably initially disposed in a closed position (fig. 21) to prevent wine or other liquid from passing through the device 500. In particular, fig. 21 shows, in cross-section, the apparatus 500 in a closed position with the plug valve portion 510 in a lowermost position relative to the body portion 508, and with the lower seal 542 in sealing contact with a lower inner peripheral portion 552 of the lower body portion 508A at a region below the lowermost outlet of the flow passage 536 (fig. 20), and the upper seal in sealing contact with an upper inner peripheral portion 550 of the upper body portion 508B. Thus, fluid entering the liquid inlet portion 518 from the pouch and passing through the hollow interior portion 526 is contained within the body portion 508 and does not flow outwardly through the liquid outlet portion 538. It should be noted that in this closed position, fluid does enter each flow passage 536 (fig. 20), but because the bottom seal sealingly contacts the lower inner peripheral portion 552 of the body portion 508 at a region below the lowermost edge of the flow passage 536, the fluid is contained within the body portion 508.

Fig. 22 shows the apparatus 500 in an open position, which is a condition achieved by rotating the plug valve portion 510 relative to the body portion 508, whereby such rotation in a counterclockwise direction (when viewed from above) in this embodiment enables each of the pair of inwardly projecting projections 534 (fig. 15) of the plug valve portion 510 to slide in an upward and oblique direction along an associated one of the oblique grooves 532 (fig. 10) on the upper body portion 508B, thereby raising the plug valve portion 510 relative to the body portion 508. This rotation of the plug valve portion 510 is facilitated by grasping the ridge 554 (fig. 13), which enables the user to more securely grasp on the plug valve portion 510.

When the apparatus 500 is in the open position of fig. 22, the lower seal bar is no longer in full sealing contact with the lower inner peripheral portion 550 of the body portion 508. Conversely, while the bottom seal strip is still in contact with the inner radial periphery of the annular inner flange 540 (fig. 11), fluid from the hollow inner portion 526 is free to flow downwardly through the flow channel 536 and then out through the liquid outlet portion 538.

While some aeration of fluid flowing through the apparatus 500 will occur when the obturator 514 is closed (as in fig. 22), maximum aeration is achieved when the obturator 514 is fully open (as in fig. 23), and intermediate aeration can be achieved by positioning the obturator at any of various intermediate points between fully open and fully closed. As described above, the user can change the position of the obturator 514 by lifting or pushing the finger tabs 562 in the appropriate direction such that the obturator 514 pivots about the axis defined by the shaft portion 560 (fig. 10, 16, and 17).

When the valve is in an open position, such as in fig. 23, fluid (such as wine) flows through the flow passage 536 in a constricted manner, increasing its velocity, which creates a lower pressure region below the plug valve portion 510. This lower pressure region creates a suction that draws air downstream within the plug valve portion 510. Also, air entering the plug valve portion 510 through the central opening 572 (which may be considered an air inlet portion) is also directed downstream. This lower pressure region and suction are created by a combination of the bernoulli principle and the venturi effect. Thus, the mixing of the liquid (such as wine) and the air aerates the liquid (wine). By varying the size, shape, spacing and number of flow channels in the array of flow channels, the mixing intensity can be varied at the design stage. The user can also vary the amount of aeration in the finished product by adjusting how much the lower cylindrical portion 548 of the plug valve portion exposes/blocks the flow channels 536 by adjusting the degree to which the obturator is open and by rotating the plug valve portion 510 to raise/lower it to an intermediate point between the fully open and fully closed positions.

In the embodiment of fig. 23, the aeration of the fluid occurs in a zone that will be defined as an aerated and bubble zone 580. In particular, when the plug valve portion 510 is in the open position (or partially open position), fluid that has been diverted through the individual flow channels 536 reconnects when enough of the angled channels are exposed to allow liquid to be dispensed through the liquid outlet portion. As described above, a low pressure environment is created at the base of flow channel 536, creating suction and turbulent bubbles within aeration and bubble region 580. Fluid stagnates on the lower inner peripheral portion 552 of the body portion 508 until passing the lower edge 582 of the body portion 508, wherein the interior of the body portion creates thin fluid walls that eventually rejoin downstream within the aerated and bubble zone 580. In other words, the mixing or aeration of the fluid (wine) and air occurs in the aerated and bubble zone 580.

One of the other benefits of the embodiment depicted in fig. 9-23, as well as some other embodiments, is: after the plug valve portion 510 has been rotated from the open position to the closed position, the present configuration allows only a small amount of fluid to remain on the device 500, such that the amount of residual fluid dripping from the bottom of the faucet is reduced (or substantially eliminated). In particular, due to the combination of the structural features and the functional features associated with the fluid flow created by the structural features, only a small amount of fluid remains on the lower inner peripheral portion 552 of the body portion 508 after the plug valve portion 510 is moved into the closed position (fig. 21), because the only area to which liquid can attach is the area of the lower inner peripheral portion 552 below the lowermost edge of the lower cylindrical portion 548 of the plug valve portion 510, which is relatively small. Furthermore, the bubbles created when the plug valve portion 510 is in the open position (fig. 23) and when liquid is dispensed burst when the plug valve portion 510 is moved into the closed position (fig. 21), and thus when such bubbles burst, most of the remaining liquid falls from the device.

Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, levels, positions, sizes, dimensions, positions and other specifications set forth in this specification (including the claims) are approximate and not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions to which they pertain and with the conventions in the field to which they pertain.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the above detailed description. The embodiments are capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of protection. Accordingly, the detailed description is to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive. Also, although not explicitly recited, one or more embodiments may be practiced in combination or conjunction with each other. In other words, it is contemplated that features from different embodiments may be combined to yield additional embodiments not depicted but readily understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, references to specific embodiments or not should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection. It is intended that the scope of protection be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by the claims and the equivalents to the claims that follow.

Nothing stated or illustrated is intended to or should be construed as a contribution to the public by any element, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage or equivalent, other than that just described, whether or not recited in the claims.

Claims

1. A faucet and aerator apparatus (500), comprising:

a container coupling portion (504), the container coupling portion (504) comprising a liquid inlet portion (518);

a body portion (508), the body portion (508) comprising a liquid outlet portion (538), wherein the liquid outlet portion (538) is in fluid communication with the liquid inlet portion (518) of the container coupling portion (504);

a plug valve portion (510), the plug valve portion (510) being constructed and arranged to be positioned within the body portion (508), wherein the plug valve portion (510) is constructed and arranged to move relative to the body portion (508) between an open position in which liquid is free to flow from the liquid inlet portion (518) and out through the liquid outlet portion (538), and a closed position in which liquid from the liquid inlet portion (518) is prevented from flowing out through the liquid outlet portion (538); and

an aerator (512), the aerator (512) for selectively regulating air flow into the body portion (508), wherein the aerator (512) includes a central opening (572), the central opening (572) being constructed and arranged as an air inlet portion,

wherein the body portion (508) comprises a plurality of flow channels (536) disposed in an inner surface of the body portion (508), and further wherein each of the flow channels (536) is comprised of a groove formed within the inner surface of the body portion (508),

wherein the plug valve portion (510) comprises an opening extending through the plug valve portion (510), wherein the opening of the plug valve portion (510) comprises an upper portion in fluid communication with the central opening (572) of the aerator (512) and a lower portion in fluid communication with the liquid outlet portion (538) of the body portion (508),

wherein the plug valve portion (510) comprises at least one first sealing strip (544) on an outer circumference of the plug valve portion (510) and at least one second sealing strip (542) on the outer circumference of the plug valve portion (510),

wherein when the plug valve portion (510) is in the closed position, the at least one first sealing strip (544) is in sealing contact with an inner peripheral portion of the body portion (508) at a first region and the at least one second sealing strip (542) is in sealing contact with the inner peripheral portion of the body portion (508) at a second region,

wherein when the plug valve portion (510) is in the closed position, the flow channel (536) is located entirely between the at least one first seal (544) and the at least one second seal (542), and

wherein a lowermost outlet of each of the flow channels (536) is separated from a lowermost edge of the liquid outlet portion (538) of the body portion (508).

2. The faucet and aerator device (500) of claim 1, wherein the at least one second sealing strip (542) prevents the liquid from flowing out through the liquid outlet portion (538) when the plug valve portion (510) is in the closed position.

3. The faucet and aerator device (500) of claim 1, further comprising:

a bridge portion (506) between the container coupling portion (504) and the body portion (508), wherein the bridge portion (506) comprises a bridge passage in the bridge portion (506) that is constructed and arranged to allow liquid to flow from the container coupling portion (504) to the body portion (508).

4. The faucet and aerator arrangement (500) of claim 3, wherein:

the first region is above a region where the bridge passage connects with the body portion (508), and the second region is below a region where the bridge passage (526) connects with the body portion (508).

5. The faucet and aerator device (500) of claim 1, wherein the plug valve portion (510) is constructed and arranged to rotate relative to the body portion (508) between the open position and the closed position.

6. The faucet and aerator arrangement (500) of claim 1, wherein:

the plug valve portion (510) includes a pair of inwardly projecting protrusions (534); and is

The body portion (508) includes a pair of grooves (532), the pair of grooves (532) being constructed and arranged to mate with a pair of inwardly projecting protrusions (534) such that the plug valve portion (510) is rotatable relative to the body portion (508) between the open position and the closed position.

7. The faucet and aerator device (500) of claim 1, wherein the body portion (508) includes an annular inner flange (540) formed in an interior of the body portion (508), and further wherein each flow channel (536) of the plurality of flow channels (536) is formed as a groove within the annular inner flange (540).

8. The faucet and aerator device (500) of claim 1, wherein the aerator (512) includes an obturator (514), the obturator (514) being constructed and arranged to pivot relative to the plug valve portion (510) to adjust the amount of aeration.

9. A faucet assembly, comprising:

wherein the body portion (508) comprises a first sealing region above a region where the bridge passage (526) connects with the body portion (508) and a second sealing region below a region where the bridge passage (526) connects with the body portion (508), and

wherein the plug valve portion (510) comprises an opening extending through the plug valve portion (510), wherein the opening of the plug valve portion (510) comprises an upper portion in fluid communication with the central opening (572) of the aerator and a lower portion in fluid communication with the liquid outlet portion (538) of the body portion (508),

wherein the flow channel (536) is located entirely between the first and second seal regions, and

10. The faucet assembly of claim 9, wherein at least one sealing strip (542, 544) prevents the liquid from flowing out through the liquid outlet portion (538) when the plug valve portion (510) is in the closed position.

11. The faucet assembly of claim 9, wherein the plug valve portion (510) includes at least one seal (542, 544) about a periphery of the plug valve, and further wherein the at least one seal (542, 544) is constructed and arranged to: when the plug valve portion (510) is in the closed position, in sealing contact with the second sealing area on an inner peripheral portion of the body portion (508).

12. The faucet assembly of claim 9, further comprising:

13. The faucet assembly of claim 12, wherein:

the plug valve portion (510) comprises at least one first sealing strip (544) on the outer circumference of the plug valve portion (510) and at least one second sealing strip (542) on the outer circumference of the plug valve portion (510), and

when the plug valve portion (510) is in the closed position, the at least one first sealing strip (544) is in sealing contact with an inner peripheral portion of the body portion (508) at the first sealing region, and the at least one second sealing strip (542) is in sealing contact with the inner peripheral portion of the body portion (508) at the second sealing region.

14. The faucet assembly of claim 9, wherein the plug valve portion (510) is constructed and arranged to rotate relative to the body portion (508) between the open position and the closed position.

15. The faucet assembly of claim 9, wherein:

16. The faucet assembly of claim 9, wherein the body portion (508) includes an annular inner flange (540) formed in an interior of the body portion (508), and further wherein each flow channel (536) of the plurality of flow channels (536) is formed as a groove within the annular inner flange (540).