CN218127991U

CN218127991U - Anti-overflow tableware article

Info

Publication number: CN218127991U
Application number: CN202090000992.7U
Authority: CN
Inventors: M.N.哈伯曼
Original assignee: Haberman Global Innovation Co ltd
Current assignee: Haberman Global Innovation Co ltd
Priority date: 2019-10-10
Filing date: 2020-10-09
Publication date: 2022-12-27
Anticipated expiration: 2030-10-09
Also published as: GB2605038B; WO2021069931A1; GB2605038A

Abstract

A spill-resistant cutlery item (100) that is flexible and comprises a longitudinally extending elongate member having a tubular retaining portion (101) proximate a first end thereof; and a gripping portion (106) having a rigid inner portion and a flexible outer portion proximate a second end opposite the first end. In an arrangement of the present disclosure, the tubular retaining portion includes an interior retaining surface (104) defining a retaining portion cavity, and the tubular retaining portion further includes a food inlet in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity. Thus, spill-proof cutlery items preferably overcome the current problems and provide a device and accessory means for assisting and self-service eating.

Description

Anti-overflow tableware article

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a spill-resistant cutlery item which may be used to assist in feeding children, such as toddlers, or persons of limited dexterity.

Background

For persons with limited dexterity or fine motor skills, eating a semi-liquid food such as puree with a conventional spoon is challenging, as the food easily falls out of the spoon before reaching the mouth. For example, in the early stages of weaning, an infant may want to grasp a spoon containing food, but will likely wave the spoon, causing the food to fly in all directions, restricting the food from reaching the mouth. Therefore, caregivers tend to prevent children from grabbing the spoon. This slows the development of the child's independent self-feeding skills. Even when a caregiver holds the spoon, the child can often touch the spoon, and the food falls off. Similarly, for many elderly or persons with limited dexterity, feeding with a spoon can be frustrating and messy, requiring intervention by a caregiver, which can compromise the individual's sense of independence and self-esteem.

Current solutions include feeding e.g. young children with food bags. These food bags are provided with a short suction nozzle through which the semi-liquid food is sucked out of the bag. The baby bag can be squeezed to assist the child in sucking, which is a very simple way of feeding. However, such food bags do not address the problem of developing child dexterity beyond the normal skill of self-feeding spoons. In addition, the food is delivered to the rear of the child's mouth, thus bypassing the critical steps of the child opening the mouth to place the scoop in the mouth, closing the lip to suck the bolus from the scoop and delivering the bolus from the front to the rear of the mouth, further inhibiting the development of the child's self-feeding skills.

Another solution relates to a straw scoop, wherein the straw has an open scoop-shaped element due to the longitudinal cutting. However, when swung, food loaded on the spoons is easily spilled. Thus, the problem of confusion due to the lack of suitable feeding implements still remains.

Accordingly, there is a need to provide a solution to overcome the disadvantages of current feeding implements.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

According to the present invention, there is provided an spill-resistant cutlery item comprising a longitudinally extending elongate member having a tubular retaining portion adjacent a first end thereof; and a grip portion proximate a second end opposite the first end. The tubular retaining portion includes an internal retaining surface defining a retaining portion cavity. The tubular retaining portion further includes a food inlet in fluid communication with the retaining portion cavity.

The spill-proof cutlery item is to be further understood as any implement suitable for eating.

The tubular holding part of the invention preferably defines a holding part cavity such that the holding part cavity is tubular. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the tubular description is merely descriptive of the invention. In further embodiments, the tubular holding portion comprises a volume having a cross-sectional shape that is square, rectangular, oval, circular, or any shape suitable for the function of the invention. Preferably, the tubular holding section cavity has a sufficient volume to accommodate food therein. If the tubular holding portion is too small, the food product will not enter the cavity of the holding portion. On the other hand, if the tubular holding part is too large, the food will easily come out of the cavity of the holding part.

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

In some embodiments, the tubular retaining portion includes a notch. Preferably, the recess is located at an upper portion of the tubular retaining portion. Further preferably, the recess extends longitudinally along the tubular retaining portion.

In a preferred embodiment, the tubular retaining portion comprises a tubular retaining portion material that allows sufficient compression so that food can exit the retaining portion cavity when the tubular retaining portion is compressed. Preferably, the tubular retaining section material is a flexible material. More preferably, the tubular retaining section material is a flexible material which will return to its original shape after compression. More preferably, the tubular retaining portion material comprises an elastically deformable material. In some embodiments, the tubular retaining portion material comprises silicone. Those skilled in the art will appreciate further embodiments wherein the tubular retaining portion material comprises any flexible material that allows compression of the tubular retaining portion. Advantageously, this arrangement allows easier extraction of the food, since the tubular holding part can be squeezed (compressed) to move the food out of the holding part cavity, in addition to suction.

In a preferred embodiment, the internal retaining surface comprises a plurality of ridges. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the plurality of protuberances are protuberances of any suitable shape that extend from the interior retaining surface into the retaining portion cavity. Preferably, the plurality of ridges are arranged to maximize surface adhesion between food product present in the tubular holding section and the internal holding surface. Further embodiments may be envisaged in which the tubular retaining portion comprises corrugations. The requirement for greater surface adhesion will require a greater surface area of the internal retaining surface, which is proportional to the surface area of the plurality of protuberances. Preferably, the surface adhesion is sufficiently great to bias the food present in the tubular holding portion to be held in the tubular holding portion. It is also preferred that the surface adhesion is not too great so as to inhibit any attempt to remove the food from the tubular holding portion by, for example, suction.

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

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

Preferably, the food inlet is near the front end of the tubular holding portion. In a preferred embodiment, the front end is longitudinally opposite the front end. Preferably, the food inlet is arranged such that fluid and/or semi-fluid can enter or leave the holding part cavity via the food inlet. In a preferred embodiment, the food inlet forms part of the tubular retaining portion and maximises fluid communication between the cavity of the tubular retaining portion and the region outside the food inlet. The physical shape of the food inlet may preferably match the cross-section of the holding part cavity, which in a preferred embodiment is oval. However, other embodiments exist wherein the food inlet has a circular, square, rectangular or any other shape that allows food to enter the tubular holding portion. Preferably, the food inlet is arranged to minimize protrusion of the chamber wall in the vicinity of the food inlet. Advantageously, this arrangement reduces food accumulation that may occur if the lip protrudes from the surface of the tubular retaining portion.

In some embodiments, the food inlet may comprise a smaller radius than the cross-section of the holding part cavity.

In a preferred embodiment, the food inlet may be planar and may be selected to extend longitudinally at an angle, for example 30 degrees. As a result, the food inlet may have a varying offset along an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Advantageously, such a shape may facilitate the transfer of food into the tubular holding portion.

Preferably, the spill-resistant cutlery item further comprises a vent. In a preferred embodiment, the vent or holes are arranged to allow air to leave the holding section cavity when food enters. Advantageously, the vent reduces the potential build up of pressure that would otherwise impede food entering the holding section cavity. In a further preferred embodiment, the vent is arranged in fluid communication with the tubular holding section cavity. Advantageously, such an embodiment allows the tubular holding part cavity to be easily cleaned, since the cleaning fluid can enter the holding part cavity via the food inlet and exit via the vent hole, or vice versa.

In some embodiments, the vent may include a valve configured to change the vent between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

Preferably, the vent hole is near the rear end of the tubular holding portion such that the vent hole is opposite the food inlet. The vent hole may be located elsewhere along the gripping portion or handle of the feeding device or spoon.

In some embodiments, the vent is oval in shape. In further embodiments, the shape of the vent is circular, square, rectangular or any other shape suitable for the function of the vent.

In some embodiments, the vent holes extend in an angled direction. That is, the vent hole extends from the tubular holding portion to the outside at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis. Preferably, the angle is between 15 ° and 75 °. Preferably, the angle of the vent is greater than the angle of the food inlet. Therefore, food is less likely to adhere to and block the vent. Alternatively, the vent hole may extend from the front end of the tubular holding portion to the rear end of the tubular holding portion as such.

In some embodiments, the spill resistant dinnerware article further comprises a cuff proximate the vent. Preferably, the ferrule includes a recess configured to allow air to flow between the vent hole and the outside. Preferably, the cuff comprises a depth configured to allow air to flow between the air hole and the exterior in use. Advantageously, the cuff prevents the build-up of negative pressure when a user applies suction to the spill-resistant utensil. More advantageously, the collar can provide increased robustness to spill-resistant cutlery items. Optionally, the spill-resistant utensil may include a flange configured to surround a portion of an outer surface of the spill-resistant utensil items.

In a further embodiment, the tubular retaining portion comprises an upper portion and a lower portion. Preferably, the upper portion is separated from the lower portion by a pair of opposed longitudinally extending recesses. Preferably, the notch extends from the front end of the tubular retaining portion to the rear end of the tubular retaining portion. There are further embodiments wherein the notch extends partially from the front end to the rear end. There are further embodiments in which there are a plurality of longitudinal recesses. Advantageously, the pair of opposed recesses may allow for expansion of the tubular retaining portion, thereby allowing for a larger volume of food to be accommodated.

In some embodiments, the tubular retaining portion comprises longitudinally extending tines. The tines may advantageously increase the surface area in contact with food present in the tubular holding portion, thereby increasing the surface adhesion and increasing the likelihood that food is held in the tubular holding portion.

Preferably, the tines extend from the rear end and extend to the front end. Preferably, the tines extend longitudinally along the center of the cross-sectional shape of the tubular retaining portion. Alternatively, the tines may extend longitudinally at any position along the cross-sectional shape.

In some embodiments, the tines extend half the length of the tubular retaining portion such that the tips of the tines are proximate the center of the tubular retaining portion. Alternatively, the tines may extend any length of the tubular retaining portion.

The tines may be tubular such that the tines substantially match the shape of the tubular retaining portion. The radius of the tines can decrease from the base of the tines to the tip of the tines. Other embodiments exist where the tines have any shape suitable to provide a surface area.

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

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

In a preferred embodiment, the gripping portion comprises the same material as the tubular holding portion. Optionally, the gripping portion comprises a different material.

Preferably, the grip portion further comprises a food holding cavity comprising a cavity volume; a front end; and a back end.

In some embodiments, the inner handle portion and the tines comprise a unitary, one-piece structure. The unitary structure may include a base proximate a rear end of the grip portion. The unitary structure may extend longitudinally from the grip portion to the tubular retention portion. Advantageously, the integrated structure can be stronger and can be easier to manufacture than if the tines were separate.

Preferably, the inner handle portion comprises a food holding cavity. In this way, the food holding cavity may be surrounded by the inner handle portion.

In a preferred embodiment, the food holding cavity and the tubular holding portion are in fluid communication. In this way, food stored in the food holding cavity can be transferred into the holding-part cavity.

Preferably, the tubular holding portion further comprises a first connecting portion near the front end of the tubular holding portion. It is further preferred that the food holding cavity further comprises a second connecting portion proximate the front end of the food holding cavity. In this manner, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion connect to facilitate fluid communication between the tubular retaining portion and the food holding cavity.

Preferably, the tubular holding portion comprises attachment means, wherein the attachment means is configured to facilitate attachment and detachment of the tubular holding portion from the grip portion.

In some embodiments, the attachment means may be a threaded closure. In this way, the tubular holding portion may be connected to the gripping portion by twisting the tubular holding portion around the threaded closure.

There are further embodiments wherein the attachment means is any attachment means adapted to facilitate attachment of the tubular holding portion to the grip portion.

In some embodiments, the gripping portion further comprises a food loading conduit proximate a rear end of the food-holding cavity arranged to facilitate loading of food into the food-holding cavity. In this way, food can be added to the food holding cavity without disassembling the tubular holding part.

There are further embodiments in which the food-loading conduit is proximate to any suitable portion of the food-holding cavity, adapted to facilitate loading of food into the food-holding cavity.

Preferably, the food carrying conduit is sealable. In this manner, food may be loaded into the food-holding cavity and may not exit the food-holding cavity through the food loading conduit.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner handle portion is made of a rigid material, such that the inner handle portion comprises a first material and the outer gripping portion comprises a second material, wherein preferably the first material has a stiffness which is greater than the stiffness of the second material.

Preferably, the first material is compressible. In this way, the cavity volume can be changed, as a result of which food present in the food holding cavity can be discharged into the tubular holding portion via the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion.

Preferably, the second material comprises a flexible material. In some embodiments, the second material is the same as the tubular retaining portion material. Those skilled in the art will appreciate additional embodiments wherein the second material comprises a different material than the material of the tubular retaining portion. Advantageously, the grip portion resists shear stresses that may be introduced by a user of the spill proof cutlery item when accelerating or decelerating the spill proof cutlery item.

The above embodiments have described a tubular retaining portion having a single retaining portion cavity. However, further embodiments are envisaged in which the tubular retaining portion comprises a plurality of retaining portion cavities. Each of the retaining portion cavities may be substantially similar. Alternatively, each retaining portion cavity may be different. In such an embodiment, the holding part cavities may share the same food inlet. Optionally, the holding part cavities may each comprise a food inlet. Similarly, the retaining portion cavities may share the same vent hole, or may each include a vent hole. Similarly, each retaining portion cavity may include a tooth. The plurality of holding part cavities may advantageously improve the food holding capacity of the device.

Further embodiments are envisaged in which the spill proof cutlery item comprises a plurality of vent holes. Alternatively, the spill-resistant dinnerware article may not include a vent.

In one embodiment, the spill-resistant cutlery item is arranged such that the tubular retaining portion terminates adjacent the inner handle portion for a compact arrangement and for easy gripping by a user, whether the user is a caregiver or an infant or an adult who feeds on their own.

Drawings

Specific embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows a side cross-sectional view of an spill proof cutlery item according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows a top view of an spill proof cutlery item according to the first embodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 1, showing the details of the vent;

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the spill proof cutlery item of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 shows an end view of an spill proof dinnerware article according to a first embodiment of the invention, showing the openings to the device and cavity;

FIG. 5a shows a top view of an spill proof cutlery item according to a second embodiment of the present invention, the cutlery item comprising a balloon shaped tubular holding portion;

FIG. 5b shows an end view of a spill resistant cutlery item according to a third embodiment of the present invention, the cutlery item comprising raised ribs;

figure 5c shows a side cross-sectional view of an spill proof cutlery item comprising tines according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5d shows a top view of an spill proof dinnerware article comprising a cuff, according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 shows a side cross-sectional view of an overflow resistant cutlery item according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, the cutlery item comprising a food holding cavity;

FIG. 7 shows a side cross-sectional view of a spill proof dinnerware article including a removable tubular retaining portion, according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 8 shows a side view of another example of a spill-resistant cutlery item.

Detailed Description

Referring to FIG. 1, a side cross-sectional view of a spill proof cutlery item or scoop 100 is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, spill-resistant cutlery item 100 has a longitudinal axis extending therethrough. The device 100 comprises a housing, a tubular holding portion 101 or a longitudinally extending elongated member near a first end of the housing. The elongated member has a gripping portion 106 near a second end opposite the first end. The device is characterized in that the tubular holding part 101 comprises an inner holding surface 104 defining a holding part cavity 103. The tubular holding part further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the holding part cavity 103.

The scoop or spill-proof cutlery item 100 comprises a vent hole 102 located adjacent to the tubular holding section 101 and the food holding section of the device, the vent hole 102 being angled to provide airflow communication in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spill-proof cutlery item 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent holes 102 are circular holes of substantially equal diameter that pass through the material comprising the tubular retaining portion 101 to the internal retaining surface 104 and through the retaining portion cavity 103.

Turning now to FIG. 2, the gripping portion 106 comprises the components of a central inner handle gripping portion 105 that is enclosed and enclosed within the outer gripping portion 106 of FIG. 2. The combination of the inner handle grip portion 105 surrounded and encompassed by the outer grip portion 106 should be integral such that the user can operate and manipulate the handle as a tool. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner handle grip portion 105 is made of a rigid material, such as metal or hard plastic, and the outer grip portion 106 comprises a softer, less rigid second material, such as a flexible plastic or rubber. The outer gripping portion 106 may have an ergonomic design and shape to facilitate handling and manipulation. Alternative sizes and shapes are possible for users of different skills and sizes. In addition, as shown in FIG. 3, the second end of spill resistant implement 100 is rounded and smooth to provide a safe and non-damaging surface. The rounded end is configured to provide an ergonomic handle that is convenient to use and does not create sharp edges or ends that may cause damage when used and manipulated at a table or feeding area.

Referring to fig. 1 and 4, the interior of the tubular holding portion 101 will now be described.

As shown, the tubular retaining portion 101 is generally cylindrical. The tubular holding part 101 is open at one end, the so-called food inlet F. The tubular retaining portion 101 defines a retaining portion cavity 103 bounded by an interior retaining surface 104. In this example, the material of the entire portion 101 is silicone, durable, safe, and flexible. The material should be food safe, suitable for washing and drying, suitable for human and animal contact, durable and wear resistant, suitable for repeated use, wear and cleaning. Materials and structures are also considered to withstand the requirements of industrial cleaning and drying for institutional settings and large-scale use.

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

In the embodiment shown in fig. 4, it can be seen that the internal retaining surface 104 includes a plurality of ridges or ribs 104. As previously mentioned, the rib structure is arranged to maximize surface adhesion between food or puree present in the tubular holding portion and the inner holding surface 104. The example shown in fig. 1 and 4 is a series of contiguous parallel longitudinal projections or ribs extending along the interior retaining surface 104 in a direction parallel and longitudinal with respect to the longitudinal axis of the spill-resistant utensil 100. In other embodiments, the plurality of protrusions includes a plurality of protrusions extending in any direction along the interior retaining surface. The protrusions or ridges may be disposed side-by-side or adjacent to each other, or may be spaced from the next ridge or rib.

In use, spill-resistant dinnerware article 100 is held and gripped by a user at gripping portion 106, and the tubular holding portion is dipped into a bowl or other food container, or otherwise loaded with food (e.g., puree or soft serve). Food enters the holding section cavity 103 at F and air previously occupying the volume of the cavity 103 is expelled and forced out of the vent 102. The food adheres to and surrounds the inner holding surface 104. In particular, food sticks to and engages the ribs 104 of the interior retaining surface 104. When the user moves the spill proof dinnerware article 100 from the bowl towards the mouth, the ribs and the surface of the food adhere sufficiently to retain the food within the tubular retaining portion 101. The adherence of the ribs to the surface of the food is sufficient to retain the food within the tubular retaining portion 101 during any sudden movement, such as a jerking or playing motion or a distracting motion. Once the user places the spill-proof cutlery item 100 in their mouth or in the mouth of the object, person or animal being fed, the food is then released into the mouth by a sucking or sucking action or other mouth action at the tubular holding part 101. The food previously occupying the volume of the cavity 103 moves into the subject's mouth and air replaces the volume removed by the air entering through the vent 102. The loading and feeding operations may then be repeated. When in the mouth and squeezed by the lips and/or tongue, food can be expelled from the cavity 103 through the open end and the vent holes 102, whereupon the bolus of food is released into the mouth.

After use, the tubular supply portion can be cleaned and rinsed. In some embodiments (not shown), spill proof cutlery item 100 may be separated into its component parts for washing, deep cleaning, or sanitizing.

Turning now to fig. 5a, there is shown a top view of an spill proof cutlery item 100300, in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention.

The spill-resistant cutlery item or ladle 300 is substantially similar to the ladle 100 in that the ladle 300 comprises an outer shell, a tubular holding section 301 proximate a first end of the outer shell or a longitudinally extending elongate member. The elongated member includes a gripping portion 306 proximate a second end opposite the first end. The scoop is characterized by a tubular retaining portion 301 comprising an inner retaining surface 304 defining a retaining portion cavity. The tubular holding part further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the holding part cavity.

The scoop 300 comprises a vent hole 302 located adjacent to the tubular holding section 301 and the food holding section of the device, the vent hole 302 being angled to provide air flow communication in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spill-proof cutlery item 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the air holes 302 are circular holes of substantially equal diameter that pass through the material comprising the tubular retaining portion 301 to the inner retaining surface 304 and through the retaining portion cavity.

The tubular retaining portion 301 includes a width. In the illustrated embodiment of scoop 300, the width varies along the longitudinal axis. The radius increases along a first portion of the longitudinal axis and decreases along a second portion of the longitudinal axis such that the tubular retaining portion 301 is teardrop-shaped or balloon-shaped. The holding section cavity substantially matches the shape of the tubular holding section 301.

In another alternative embodiment, fig. 5b shows an end view of a spill proof cutlery item 400 according to a third embodiment of the invention.

Spill-proof cutlery item or scoop 400 is substantially similar to scoop 100 in that scoop 400 comprises an outer shell, a tubular retaining portion 401 proximate a first end of the outer shell, or a longitudinally extending elongated member. The elongated member includes a gripping portion (not shown) proximate a second end opposite the first end. The scoop is characterized by a tubular retaining portion 401 comprising an inner retaining surface 404 defining a retaining portion cavity 403. The tubular holding part further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the holding part cavity 403.

Scoop 400 includes a vent hole (not shown) located adjacent to the tubular holding portion 401 and the food holding portion of the device that provides airflow communication at an angle in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of spill-resistant cutlery item 400.

The tubular retaining portion 401 is generally cylindrical in shape and includes a generally circular cross-sectional shape. As shown, the tubular holding portion 401 is open at one end, the so-called food inlet F. The tubular retaining portion 401 defines a retaining portion cavity 403 bounded by an interior retaining surface 404. It can be seen that the internal retaining surface 404 includes a plurality of ridges or ribs 404. The plurality of ribs 404 are a series of contiguous parallel longitudinal projections or ribs extending along the interior retaining surface 404 in a direction parallel and longitudinal with respect to the longitudinal axis of the scoop 400.

In the illustrated embodiment, the ribs 406 of the plurality of ribs 404 include a height that is substantially greater than a height of the ribs 404. That is, the ribs 406 protrude further toward the central longitudinal axis of the tubular retaining portion than the ribs 404. There are alternative embodiments in which the ribs 406 extend toward an axis offset from the central longitudinal axis. The illustrated rib 406 includes a height that is greater than a radius of the circular cross-sectional shape of the tubular retaining portion 401. Embodiments are envisioned in which the height is less than the cross-sectional radius. Further embodiments are contemplated wherein the height of the ribs 406 varies along the longitudinal axis. The surface area of the internal retaining surface 404 is further increased thereby increasing the surface adhesion and further increasing the bias with which food is retained within the tubular retaining portion 401.

There may be a plurality of ribs 406, where each rib may protrude toward the same or a different longitudinal axis. The ribs 406 may each comprise a different or the same height.

Referring to fig. 5C, a side cross-sectional view of a spill proof cutlery item 500 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention is shown.

Spill-resistant cutlery item 500 or scoop 500 is substantially similar to scoop 100 in that scoop 500 comprises an outer shell, a tubular retaining portion 501 proximate a first end of the outer shell, or a longitudinally extending elongate member. The elongated member includes a gripping portion 506 proximate a second end opposite the first end. The grip portion 506 comprises a component of a central inner handle grip portion 505 surrounded and wrapped by an outer grip portion 506.

The scoop is further characterized in that the tubular retaining portion 501 comprises an inner retaining surface 504 defining a retaining portion cavity 503. The tubular holding part further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the holding part cavity 503.

The scoop 500 includes a vent hole 502 located adjacent to the tubular holding section 501 and the food holding section of the device, the vent hole 502 being angled to provide air flow communication in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spill proof cutlery item 500. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent 502 is a circular hole of substantially equal diameter, passing through the material comprising the tubular retaining portion 501 to the inner retaining surface 504 and through the retaining portion cavity 503.

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

Scoop 500 also includes longitudinally extending tines 508. The tines 508 extend from the front end of the inner handle grip portion 505 such that the tines 508 and the inner grip portion 505 constitute a single integral structure 508 protruding from the rear end of the tubular holding portion 501 and extending towards the front end of the tubular holding portion 501. Preferably, the tines 508 extend longitudinally along the center of the cross-sectional shape of the tubular retaining portion 501. Alternatively, the tines 508 may extend longitudinally anywhere along the cross-sectional shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tines 508 extend half way the length of the tubular retaining portion 501 such that the tips of the tines are proximate the center of the tubular retaining portion 501. Alternatively, the tines may extend any length of the tubular retaining portion.

The tangs 508 are tubular such that the tangs 508 substantially match the shape of the tubular retaining portion 501. The radius of the tines can decrease from the base of the tines to the tip of the tines. Other embodiments exist where the tines have any shape suitable to provide a surface area.

Fig. 5d shows a top view of a spill proof cutlery item 600 comprising a cuff according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

The spill-resistant cutlery item 600 or scoop 600 is substantially similar to the scoop 100, wherein the scoop 600 comprises an outer shell, a tubular retaining portion 601 proximate a first end of the outer shell, or a longitudinally extending elongate member. The elongated member includes a gripping portion 606 proximate a second end opposite the first end. The gripping portion 606 comprises a component of a central inner handle gripping portion (not shown) enclosed and encapsulated in an outer gripping portion 606

The scoop is further characterized in that the tubular retaining portion 601 comprises an inner retaining surface 604 defining a retaining portion cavity 603. The tubular holding part further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the holding part cavity 603.

The scoop 600 comprises a vent hole 602 located adjacent to the tubular holding section 601 and the food holding section of the device, the vent hole 602 being angled to provide air flow communication in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the spill-proof cutlery item 600. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent 602 is a circular hole of substantially equal diameter, passing through the material comprising the tubular retaining portion 601 to the inner retaining surface 604 and through the retaining portion cavity 603.

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

Scoop 600 also includes ferrule 612. The ferrule 612 is cylindrical and includes a hollow center such that the ferrule 612 is annular in cross-section. Cuff 612 surrounds a portion of the outer surface of scoop 600. The ferrule 612 includes a recess 614 that is substantially similar in shape to the air hole 602. The notches 614 are positioned such that air may flow between the vent and the outside. Cuff 612 also includes a depth extending perpendicularly from the outer surface of the scoop.

In some embodiments, the ferrule 612 is rotatable. In such embodiments, rotating the collar 612 between the first position and the second position allows the vent 602 to be substantially covered in the first position and substantially uncovered in the second position.

In another embodiment, referring to fig. 6, a side cross-sectional view of a spill proof cutlery item 700 according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. The embodiment shown in fig. 6 is substantially similar to the embodiment shown in fig. 1-4, but differs in that the grip portion 702 is a pocket 702 that includes a food holding cavity 704. The substantially cylindrical shaped food holding cavity 704 includes a cavity volume, a back end 706 and a front end 708. Near the rear end 706 of the food holding cavity 704, there is a second connecting portion 710. Near the front end 708 of the food holding cavity 704, there is a food loading conduit 712 configured to facilitate loading of food into the food holding cavity 704. The food loading conduit 712 is sealable such that it does not allow food to escape from the food holding cavity 706 through the food loading conduit 712. In this embodiment, the pocket 702 is made of a compressible material.

Further, in the embodiment shown in fig. 6, a tubular holding portion 720 is shown, substantially similar to the tubular holding portion 101 shown in fig. 1 to 4. The tubular retaining portion 720 includes a first connecting portion 722 adjacent to the retaining portion cavity 724. The two connecting

portions

722, 710 are substantially tubular in shape and extend along the longitudinal axis of their

respective housings

702, 724. The first connecting portion 722 aligns with the second connecting portion 710 such that a channel is formed between the connecting

portions

710, 722 to facilitate fluid communication between the holding portion cavity 724 and the food holding cavity 704.

In use, a food holding cavity (e.g., a puree or soft serve food) is filled with food via the food loading conduit 712, for example, by pouring the food into the food loading conduit 712. The food loading conduit 712 is then sealed such that food cannot escape from the food holding cavity 704 through the food loading conduit 712. The grip portion 702 is then squeezed, resulting in compression of the food cavity 704. The compression causes the cavity volume of the food holding cavity 704 to decrease, thereby decreasing the volume to surface area ratio of the food holding cavity 704. As a result, the amount of food that is expelled from the food holding cavity 704 is equal to the reduced amount of the volume of the food holding cavity (assuming that the food occupies the entire volume of the food holding cavity). Due to the fluid communication between food holding cavity 704 and holding portion cavity 724, food is discharged into holding portion cavity 724 via second connecting portion 710 and first connecting portion 722.

The food enters the tubular retaining portion 720 and air previously occupying the volume of the cavity 724 is expelled and exits the outlet hole 726 and the vent hole 728. The food adheres to and surrounds the interior retaining surface of the cavity 724. In particular, the food sticks to and engages the ribs 730 of the interior retaining surface. When the user moves the spill proof dinnerware article 700 toward the mouth, the rib 730 adheres to the surface of the food sufficiently to retain the food within the tubular retaining portion 720. The rib 730 adheres to the surface of the food sufficiently to retain the food within the tubular retaining portion 720 during any sudden movement, such as a jerking or play motion or a distraction motion. Once the user places spill proof cutlery item 700 in their mouth or in the mouth of the subject, human or animal being fed, the food is then released into the mouth by a sucking or sucking action or other mouth action at tubular retaining portion 720. The food previously occupying the volume of cavity 724 moves into the mouth of the subject and air replaces the volume removed by the air entering through air holes 728. The loading and feeding operations may then be repeated. When in the mouth and squeezed by the lips and/or tongue, food can be expelled from cavity 724 through outlet hole 726 and vent hole 728, whereupon the bolus of food is released to the front of the oral cavity.

Referring to fig. 7, an exemplary embodiment similar to the embodiment shown in fig. 6 is shown in which the tubular retaining portion 820 is detachable from the pocket 802. In the illustrated embodiment, the pocket 802 and the tubular retaining portion 820 are separate. Within the first connector portion 822 of the tubular retaining portion 820, there is an internal thread 902. Surrounding the second connection portion 810 of the pouch 802, there is an external thread 904 configured to engage the internal thread 902.

In use, the second connection portion 810 is located inside the first connection portion 822 and torque is applied by twisting the tubular retaining portion 820 (or by twisting the bag portion 802). The internal threads 902 engage with the external threads 904 such that the tubular retaining portion 820 is attached to the bag portion 602.

In another embodiment (not shown), the gripping portion includes a seal proximate the second connection portion. In this way, when the grip portion and the tubular holding portion are not connected, the seal prevents any food contained within the food holding cavity from escaping through the second connecting portion. The tubular holding portion includes a piercing member proximate the first connecting portion, the piercing member configured to pierce a seal of the grip portion after the tubular holding portion is attached to the grip portion. In this way, the attachment process may allow fluid communication between the tubular holding portion and the gripping portion.

Turning now to FIG. 8, a side view of another example of a spill proof cutlery item 900 is shown.

Spill-resistant dinnerware article 900 is free of vent holes and is substantially similar in shape and external structure to spill-resistant fed dinnerware article 100.

The device 900 includes a substantially tubular silicone outer portion 910 and a tubular retaining portion 901 proximate a first end of the outer portion 910. The outer portion 910 has a grip portion 906 near a second end opposite the first end. The device 900 is characterized in that the tubular holding part 901 comprises an inner holding surface 904 defining a holding part cavity 903. The tubular holding part further comprises a food inlet F in fluid communication with the holding part cavity 903. The outer portion 910 also includes an annular protrusion 912 forming a channel 913.

The device 900 also includes an inner portion 914 that extends along the interior of the outer portion 910. Inner portion 914 comprises a more rigid material than outer portion 910 to provide support for the more flexible outer portion 910. The inner portion includes a head 916, a neck 918, and a base 920. The head 916 includes a plurality of grooves or notches 917. The maximum width of the head portion is greater than the width of the channel 913 but less than the width of the tubular retaining portion 901. Adjacent the head 916, the inner portion 914 includes a neck 918. The neck 918 includes a neck width that is less than the width of the channel 913. Adjacent the neck 918 and opposite the head 916, the inner portion 914 includes a base 920. The base 920 extends longitudinally from the neck 918 to the rear end of the inner portion 914. The width of the base 920 increases along the longitudinal axis.

In use, the inner portion 914 and the outer portion 910 may be connected/disconnected. The connection or insertion may be achieved by a push fit or a bayonet fit. That is, the flexibility of the outer portion 910 allows the head portion 916 to be pushed into a connected configuration or disconnected.

In the connected configuration, groove 917 forms a channel between inner portion 914 and outer portion 910. The passage allows the air flow to flow out of the tubular holding portion, thereby preventing the formation of negative pressure. The passageway includes a resistance sufficient to prevent food from passing through the passageway.

It will be appreciated that the above embodiments are given by way of example only and that various modifications thereto may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the described embodiment relates to the particular structure shown in the figures, however it will be appreciated that additional embodiments are contemplated wherein the feeding device is another pathway device having various shaped, novel or shaped structural features to encourage infants and aid feeding. The described embodiments relating to the screw thread and the screw connection means may be any connection means suitable for connecting a bag to a tubular holding part. Any other screw thread or fit, such as a push fit or a friction fit, is possible. There are additional embodiments wherein the first connection portion includes external threads and the second connection portion includes internal threads. The embodiments discussed relate to one type of infant feeding, but the feeding apparatus may be used for other age groups or functional or clinical or veterinary uses as well. The shape and structure can be modified according to different handles, needs and foods. The present invention may include only the tubular retaining portion 101 so that the tubular retaining portion 101 may be used independently of the handle and grip portion.

Claims

1. An spill-resistant cutlery item, comprising:

a longitudinally extending elongated member having;

a tubular retaining portion adjacent a first end thereof; and

a grip portion proximate a second end opposite the first end;

wherein the tubular retaining portion includes an internal retaining surface defining a retaining portion cavity, and

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

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

3. The spill-resistant cutlery item of claim 2, wherein the plurality of protuberances are arranged in a ribbed pattern.

4. The spill proof cutlery item of claim 2 or 3, wherein the plurality of ridges comprises a plurality of longitudinal ribs.

5. The spill-resistant dinnerware article of any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein each of one or more of the plurality of bumps comprises a height.

6. The spill-resistant cutlery item of any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the food inlet is proximate a forward end of the tubular retaining portion.

7. The spill-resistant dinnerware article of any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the food access opening is configured to facilitate loading of food or removal of food.

8. The spill-resistant cutlery item of any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the tubular retaining portion comprises a cross-sectional shape having a radius that varies along a longitudinal axis.

9. The spill proof cutlery item of any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the food inlet extends at an angle along the tubular retaining portion.

10. The spill resistant cutlery item of any one of claims 2-3, wherein the food inlet comprises a circumferential perimeter.

11. The spill proof cutlery item of any one of claims 2 to 3, further comprising a vent hole.

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

13. The spill-resistant dinnerware article of claim 11, wherein the vent comprises a circular, oval, or slit-shaped opening.

14. The spill resistant cutlery item of claim 11, wherein the vent is arranged to allow air to exit the tubular retaining portion.

15. The spill-resistant cutlery item of claim 11, wherein the vent hole extends from the tubular retaining portion to the exterior at an angle along the longitudinal axis.

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

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

an inner handle portion; and

an outer gripping portion.

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

a food holding cavity, comprising:

a cavity volume;

a front end; and

a back end.

19. The spill-resistant cutlery item of claim 13, wherein the inner handle portion comprises a food holding cavity.

20. The spill-resistant dinnerware article of claim 13 wherein the food holding cavity and the holding portion cavity are in fluid communication.

21. The spill resistant cutlery item of claim 14, wherein the tubular retaining portion further comprises a first connecting portion proximate a forward end of the tubular retaining portion.

22. The spill-resistant dinnerware article of claim 17 wherein said food holding cavity further comprises a second connecting portion proximate a forward end of said food holding cavity.

23. The spill proof dinnerware article of claim 18, wherein the tubular retaining portion comprises an attachment device, wherein the attachment device is configured to facilitate attachment and detachment of the tubular retaining portion from the grip portion.

24. The spill-resistant dinnerware article of claim 18, wherein the gripping portion further comprises a food loading conduit proximate a rear end of the food-holding cavity arranged to facilitate loading of food into the food-holding cavity.

25. The spill-resistant cutlery item of claim 13, wherein the inner handle portion is such that the inner handle portion comprises a first material and the outer gripping portion comprises a second material, wherein the first material is more rigid than the second material.

26. The spill resistant cutlery item of claim 21, wherein the first material is compressible.

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

28. The spill-resistant cutlery item of any one of claims 13 to 23, wherein the outer gripping portion is made of a flexible material.

29. The spill resistant cutlery item of any one of claims 13-24, wherein the tubular retaining portion terminates proximate the inner handle portion.

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