US20100040740A1 - Tea bag cozy - Google Patents
Tea bag cozy Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100040740A1 US20100040740A1 US12/604,927 US60492709A US2010040740A1 US 20100040740 A1 US20100040740 A1 US 20100040740A1 US 60492709 A US60492709 A US 60492709A US 2010040740 A1 US2010040740 A1 US 2010040740A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- packet
- pouch
- attachment member
- coupled
- tag
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
- B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
- B65D85/808—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package for immersion in the liquid to release part or all of their contents, e.g. tea bags
- B65D85/8085—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package for immersion in the liquid to release part or all of their contents, e.g. tea bags characterised by an outer package, e.g. wrappers or boxes for enclosing tea-bags
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to infusion systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to tea bag packaging systems, and to methods for using and constructing such systems.
- tea packaging and distribution companies are known to sell tea bags in individually wrapped airtight packets to insure freshness and prevent contamination.
- the tea drinker is often left with a messy and soggy used tea bag.
- the present invention provides infusion devices for processing a brewing material that are well suited for ensuring a clean and efficient tea drinking experience.
- the present infusion systems allow a tea drinker to pull a used tea bag back into a packet after the brewing process is completed.
- the present systems therefore provide a tea drinker with an additional level of control over the tea brewing process, and also provide the drinker with a pleasant ritual to the brewing process.
- Marketing logos and other brand promotions can be placed on the packet, and thus the present invention can provide a fresh marketing focus.
- a tea bag manufacturer or distributor using the present invention will enjoy competitive advantages over other tea companies.
- the present invention can be implemented in conjunction with existing, high-speed manufacturing machines, and thus is particularly useful for minimizing any cost and complexity associated with manufacture.
- the present invention provides tea bags that can be packaged or distributed in individually wrapped in airtight water-proof packets, which are ideal for restaurants, hotels, and home. Such packets insure freshness and reduce the chance for contamination, and allow a used tea bag to be attractively hidden. These packets also provide a beautiful surface upon which to convey image and brand identity via colorful logos and the like.
- the present invention provides an infusion system for processing a brewing material.
- the system can include a pouch containing a brewing material, a packet releasably housing the pouch, and an attachment member coupled with the pouch and a detachable portion of the packet.
- the present invention provides a method of using an infusion system.
- the method can include opening a packet of the infusion system along a first tear line, removing a pouch from inside of the packet, placing the pouch into an infusion medium, tearing a tab from the packet along a second tear line, and pulling the tab to return the pouch inside of the packet.
- the present invention provides a method of constructing an infusion system.
- the method can include coupling a first section of an attachment member with a pouch, coupling a second section of the attachment member with an interior portion of a packet, and sealing the pouch within the packet.
- inventions of the present invention provide a system for processing a brewing material.
- the system can include, for example, a pouch containing a brewing material, a packet housing the pouch, and an attachment member coupled with the pouch and with the packet.
- the packet can include a detachable portion, and the attachment member can be coupled with the packet via the detachable portion.
- the packet includes a seal line, and the attachment member is coupled with the packet at the seal line.
- the attachment member can be removably coupled with the packet at the seal line.
- the packet includes a packet chamber, and the attachment member includes an attachment member extension that is disposed exterior to the packet chamber.
- the packet includes a seal line, and the attachment member is coupled with the packet at the seal line.
- the attachment member can be removably coupled with the packet at the seal line.
- the packet includes a packet insertion point, and the attachment member is coupled with the packet at the packet insertion point.
- the attachment member can be slidably coupled with the packet at the packet insertion point.
- the attachment member is detachably coupled with the packet at the packet insertion point.
- the packet includes a seal line, and the packet insertion point is disposed at the seal line.
- the packet includes a first packet insertion point and a second packet insertion point, and the attachment member is coupled with the packet at the first and second packet insertion points so as to form a loop.
- the packet may include a packet chamber, and the loop may be disposed exterior to the packet chamber.
- the packet includes a seal line, and the first and second packet insertion points are disposed at the seal line.
- the attachment member can be detachably coupled with the packet.
- the packet can include an interior portion, and the attachment member can be coupled with the packet at the interior portion.
- the attachment member may be detachably coupled with the packet at the interior portion.
- the attachment member may be slidably coupled with the packet at the interior portion.
- FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate a previously known tea bag system.
- FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 illustrates an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 illustrates an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 illustrates an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 illustrates an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- Tea bag packaging system 10 includes an unfolded packet 20 that can be folded along a fold line 22 and heat-sealed to contain a tea bag 30 .
- tea bag 30 is coupled with a tag 50 via an attachment member 40 .
- tag 50 is folded over the top of tea bag 30 , and can be separated by pulling lightly on tag 50 . The user can then grasp tag 50 and dip tea bag 30 into a cup of hot water 60 .
- the user is presented with an inconvenient used tea bag 30 .
- FIGS. 2A-2C illustrates an infusion system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- Infusion system 100 includes a pouch 130 for holding a brewing material 132 , a sealable packet 120 that houses pouch 130 , and an attachment member 140 .
- a first section 142 of attachment member 140 can be coupled with pouch 130 , often via a pouch staple 131 , and a second section 144 of attachment member 140 can be coupled with an interior portion 121 of packet 120 .
- Attachment member 140 may be of any length, and in many cases will be long enough such that pouch 130 can be completely removed from packet 120 while still being attached with interior portion 121 via attachment member 140 . It is appreciated that although this figure describes attachment to interior portion 121 of packet, second section 144 can alternatively be attached with any portion of packet 120 . In some cases, the portion of packet 120 to which second section 144 is attached is detachable from the remainder of the packet 120 .
- a tea drinker wishes to remove pouch 130 from packet 120 , she can tear packet 120 along a first tear line 126 , and pull pouch 130 out of packet 120 or otherwise allow pouch 130 to fall out of packet 120 through first tear opening 128 .
- the tea drinker can then grasp packet 120 , and dangle pouch 130 into a cup of hot water 160 .
- the tea can be brewed while attachment member 140 is still coupled with interior portion 121 of packet 120 .
- the tea drinker can tear away a tab 122 of packet 120 that includes interior portion 121 , typically by tearing along a second tear line 124 .
- the drinker can then draw attachment member 140 through the resulting second tear opening 129 in packet 120 .
- This action pulls pouch 130 out of cup 160 and back inside of packet 120 through opening 128 .
- used pouch 130 is conveniently stored, and the drinker is not distracted with a messy and unsightly used pouch 130 .
- the drinker can even use packet 120 to squeeze used pouch 130 to extract the last few drops of elixir from pouch 130 .
- infusion system 10 can be prepared with second section 144 disposed externally to packet 120 .
- the user can grasp second section 144 and pull used pouch 130 into packet 120 .
- seal packet 120 along seal lines 123 .
- seal lines 123 can be formed by heat sealing or other adhesive methods or press molding or crimping techniques.
- Interior portion 121 of packet 120 to which attachment member second section 142 is coupled, can be integral with or separate from seal line 123 .
- Brewing material 132 can include, for example, tea, coffee, herbal preparations, various plant material such as flowers, roots, stems, berries, leaves, and bark, or any other desired infusion material. Brewing material 132 can also dehydrated soups, broths, bouillons, seasonings, and the like. In some cases, brewing material 132 can include pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, or other medicinal, chemical, or biological preparations.
- attachment member second section 144 ′ can be coupled with an intermediate member 150 ′, which can in turn be coupled with interior portion 121 ′.
- intermediate member 150 ′ can be extended into, integrated with, or separate from seal line 123 ′.
- second section 144 ′ is coupled with intermediate member 150 ′ via a second section staple 151 ′, and an edge 152 ′ of intermediate member 150 ′ is extended into seal line 123 ′.
- tear lines 124 ′ and 126 ′ can be printed on the exterior surface of packet 120 ′, along with instructions for using infusion system 100 ′ according to methods as described herein.
- FIG. 4 shows an exemplary infusion system 400 according to embodiments of the present invention.
- Infusion system 400 includes a pouch 430 for holding a brewing material 432 , a sealable or sealed packet 420 that houses pouch 430 , and an attachment member 440 .
- a first section 442 of attachment member 440 can be coupled with pouch 430
- a second section 444 of attachment member 440 can be coupled with an interior portion 421 of packet 420 .
- second section 444 includes an attachment member extension 446 that is removably attached with seal line 423 , and that extends through seal line 423 at a packet insertion point 424 to the outside of packet 420 .
- a tea preparer wishes to remove pouch 430 from packet 420 , she can tear packet 420 along a first tear line 426 , and pull pouch 430 out of packet 420 or otherwise allow pouch 430 to fall out of packet 420 .
- the tea preparer can then grasp packet 420 , and dangle pouch 430 into a container of water.
- the tea can be brewed while attachment member 440 is still coupled with interior portion 421 of packet 420 .
- the tea preparer can grasp attachment member extension 446 and draw attachment member 440 through the packet insertion point 424 , which may be done without tearing away a portion of packet 420 . This action pulls pouch 430 back inside of packet 420 .
- used pouch 430 is conveniently stored, and the preparer is not distracted with a messy and unsightly used pouch 430 .
- the preparer can even use packet 420 to squeeze used pouch 430 to extract the last few drops of elixir from pouch 430 .
- FIG. 5 shows an exemplary infusion system 500 according to embodiments of the present invention.
- Infusion system 500 includes a pouch 530 for holding a brewing material 532 , a sealable or sealed packet 520 that houses pouch 530 , and an attachment member 540 .
- a first section 542 of attachment member 540 can be coupled with pouch 530
- a second section 544 of attachment member 540 can be coupled with an interior portion 521 of packet 520 .
- second section 544 includes an attachment member extension 546 that is removably attached or slidably coupled with seal line 523 , and that extends through seal line 523 at a packet insertion point 524 to the outside of packet 520 .
- Attachment member extension 546 can be disposed within a flap section 527 of packet 520 , such that attachment member 546 does not extend beyond the peripheral exterior boundary of packet 520 , yet at the same time reside exterior to an interior sealed chamber 529 of packet 520 .
- a tea preparer when a tea preparer wishes to remove pouch 530 from packet 520 , she can tear packet 520 along a first tear line 526 , and pull pouch 530 out of packet 520 or otherwise allow pouch 530 to fall out of packet 520 .
- the tea preparer can then grasp packet 520 , and dangle pouch 530 into a container of water.
- the tea can be brewed while attachment member 540 is still coupled with interior portion 521 of packet 520 .
- the tea preparer can grasp attachment member extension 546 and draw attachment member 540 through the packet insertion point 524 . This may involve the preparer separating flap or pocket 527 so as to reach or access attachment member extension 546 .
- flap 527 is defined by portions of two opposing sides of a packet, where the portions are not sealed or adhered with one another.
- the drawing action pulls pouch 530 back inside of packet 520 .
- used pouch 530 is conveniently stored, and the preparer is not distracted with a messy and unsightly used pouch 530 .
- the preparer can even use packet 520 to squeeze used pouch 530 to extract the last few drops of elixir from pouch 530 .
- FIG. 6 shows an exemplary infusion system 600 according to embodiments of the present invention.
- Infusion system 600 includes a pouch 630 for holding a brewing material 632 , a sealable or sealed packet 620 that houses pouch 630 , and an attachment member 640 .
- a first section 642 of attachment member 640 can be coupled with pouch 630
- a second section 644 of attachment member 640 can be coupled with an interior portion 621 of packet 620 .
- second section 644 includes an attachment member extension 646 that is removably attached with seal line 423 at a first packet insertion point 624 a and a second packet insertion point 624 b, so as to form a loop 648 disposed outside of packet 620 or otherwise external to an interior packet chamber 629 .
- An insertion point can be a place or location where an attachment member passes through a seal line.
- a tea preparer wishes to remove pouch 630 from packet 620 , she can tear packet 620 along a first tear line 626 , and pull pouch 630 out of packet 620 or otherwise allow pouch 630 to fall out of packet 620 .
- the tea preparer can then grasp packet 620 , and dangle pouch 630 into a container of water.
- the tea can be brewed while attachment member 640 is still coupled with interior portion 621 of packet 620 .
- the tea preparer can grasp attachment member extension 646 and draw attachment member 640 through the packet insertion point 624 . This action pulls pouch 630 back inside of packet 620 .
- used pouch 630 is conveniently stored, and the preparer is not distracted with a messy and unsightly used pouch 630 .
- the preparer can even use packet 620 to squeeze used pouch 630 to extract the last few drops of elixir from pouch 630 .
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
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Abstract
An infusion system for processing a brewing material includes a pouch configured to contain a brewing material, a sealable packet configured to house the pouch, and an attachment member coupled with the pouch and the packet.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/550,667 filed Oct. 18, 1006, which claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC 119(e) to U.S. Patent Application No. 60/728,153 filed Oct. 18, 2005. The entire content of each of these filings is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
- NOT APPLICABLE
- NOT APPLICABLE
- The present invention generally relates to infusion systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to tea bag packaging systems, and to methods for using and constructing such systems.
- Since the advent of the tea bag, many tea drinkers have enjoyed the convenience and pleasant ritual of brewing their own cup. Certain tea packaging and distribution companies are known to sell tea bags in individually wrapped airtight packets to insure freshness and prevent contamination. However, after steeping the brewing material in hot water, the tea drinker is often left with a messy and soggy used tea bag.
- What is needed are tea bag packaging systems and method that allow tea drinkers to enjoy a cup of brewed tea without the encumbrance of an awkward and unsightly used tea bag. The instant invention addresses this unfulfilled need by improved tea bag packaging systems and methods.
- The present invention provides infusion devices for processing a brewing material that are well suited for ensuring a clean and efficient tea drinking experience. Advantageously, the present infusion systems allow a tea drinker to pull a used tea bag back into a packet after the brewing process is completed. Thus, the unsightly used tea bag can be put out of sight. The present systems therefore provide a tea drinker with an additional level of control over the tea brewing process, and also provide the drinker with a pleasant ritual to the brewing process. Marketing logos and other brand promotions can be placed on the packet, and thus the present invention can provide a fresh marketing focus. A tea bag manufacturer or distributor using the present invention will enjoy competitive advantages over other tea companies. Moreover, the present invention can be implemented in conjunction with existing, high-speed manufacturing machines, and thus is particularly useful for minimizing any cost and complexity associated with manufacture.
- In some embodiments, the present invention provides tea bags that can be packaged or distributed in individually wrapped in airtight water-proof packets, which are ideal for restaurants, hotels, and home. Such packets insure freshness and reduce the chance for contamination, and allow a used tea bag to be attractively hidden. These packets also provide a beautiful surface upon which to convey image and brand identity via colorful logos and the like.
- In a first aspect, the present invention provides an infusion system for processing a brewing material. The system can include a pouch containing a brewing material, a packet releasably housing the pouch, and an attachment member coupled with the pouch and a detachable portion of the packet.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of using an infusion system. The method can include opening a packet of the infusion system along a first tear line, removing a pouch from inside of the packet, placing the pouch into an infusion medium, tearing a tab from the packet along a second tear line, and pulling the tab to return the pouch inside of the packet.
- In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of constructing an infusion system. The method can include coupling a first section of an attachment member with a pouch, coupling a second section of the attachment member with an interior portion of a packet, and sealing the pouch within the packet.
- In still another aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a system for processing a brewing material. The system can include, for example, a pouch containing a brewing material, a packet housing the pouch, and an attachment member coupled with the pouch and with the packet. The packet can include a detachable portion, and the attachment member can be coupled with the packet via the detachable portion. In some cases, the packet includes a seal line, and the attachment member is coupled with the packet at the seal line. The attachment member can be removably coupled with the packet at the seal line. In some cases, the packet includes a packet chamber, and the attachment member includes an attachment member extension that is disposed exterior to the packet chamber. In some aspects, the packet includes a seal line, and the attachment member is coupled with the packet at the seal line. Relatedly, the attachment member can be removably coupled with the packet at the seal line. In some aspects, the packet includes a packet insertion point, and the attachment member is coupled with the packet at the packet insertion point. Relatedly, the attachment member can be slidably coupled with the packet at the packet insertion point. In some cases, the attachment member is detachably coupled with the packet at the packet insertion point. In related aspects, the packet includes a seal line, and the packet insertion point is disposed at the seal line. In certain embodiments, the packet includes a first packet insertion point and a second packet insertion point, and the attachment member is coupled with the packet at the first and second packet insertion points so as to form a loop. Relatedly, the packet may include a packet chamber, and the loop may be disposed exterior to the packet chamber. In some aspects, the packet includes a seal line, and the first and second packet insertion points are disposed at the seal line. The attachment member can be detachably coupled with the packet. The packet can include an interior portion, and the attachment member can be coupled with the packet at the interior portion. The attachment member may be detachably coupled with the packet at the interior portion. Similarly, the attachment member may be slidably coupled with the packet at the interior portion.
- A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention may be realized by reference to the detailed description and claims when considered in connection with the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used throughout the several drawings to refer to similar components. The drawings, which are not necessarily to scale, illustratively depict embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
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FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate a previously known tea bag system. -
FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3 illustrates an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 illustrates an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 illustrates an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 illustrates an infusion system according to one embodiment of the present invention. - The present invention generally provides improved infusion systems, as well as method of using and constructing such systems. Turning now to the drawings, a known tea
bag packaging system 10 is shown inFIGS. 1A-1C . Teabag packaging system 10 includes an unfoldedpacket 20 that can be folded along afold line 22 and heat-sealed to contain atea bag 30. Typically,tea bag 30 is coupled with a tag 50 via an attachment member 40. When a user wishes to removebag 30 for brewing, he tearspacket 20 along a tear line 24 and removestea bag 30, attachment member 40, and tag 50. Often, tag 50 is folded over the top oftea bag 30, and can be separated by pulling lightly on tag 50. The user can then grasp tag 50 and diptea bag 30 into a cup of hot water 60. However, upon removingtea bag 30 from the cup, the user is presented with an inconvenientused tea bag 30. -
FIGS. 2A-2C illustrates aninfusion system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.Infusion system 100 includes apouch 130 for holding abrewing material 132, asealable packet 120 that housespouch 130, and anattachment member 140. Afirst section 142 ofattachment member 140 can be coupled withpouch 130, often via apouch staple 131, and asecond section 144 ofattachment member 140 can be coupled with aninterior portion 121 ofpacket 120.Attachment member 140 may be of any length, and in many cases will be long enough such thatpouch 130 can be completely removed frompacket 120 while still being attached withinterior portion 121 viaattachment member 140. It is appreciated that although this figure describes attachment tointerior portion 121 of packet,second section 144 can alternatively be attached with any portion ofpacket 120. In some cases, the portion ofpacket 120 to whichsecond section 144 is attached is detachable from the remainder of thepacket 120. - In use, when a tea drinker wishes to remove
pouch 130 frompacket 120, she can tearpacket 120 along a first tear line 126, and pullpouch 130 out ofpacket 120 or otherwise allowpouch 130 to fall out ofpacket 120 throughfirst tear opening 128. The tea drinker can then grasppacket 120, and danglepouch 130 into a cup ofhot water 160. The tea can be brewed whileattachment member 140 is still coupled withinterior portion 121 ofpacket 120. When the tea is brewed the tea drinker can tear away atab 122 ofpacket 120 that includesinterior portion 121, typically by tearing along asecond tear line 124. By holdingtab 122, or by holdingsecond section 144 ofattachment member 140, the drinker can then drawattachment member 140 through the resulting second tear opening 129 inpacket 120. This action pullspouch 130 out ofcup 160 and back inside ofpacket 120 throughopening 128. As a result, usedpouch 130 is conveniently stored, and the drinker is not distracted with a messy and unsightly usedpouch 130. The drinker can even usepacket 120 to squeeze usedpouch 130 to extract the last few drops of elixir frompouch 130. - In some cases,
infusion system 10 can be prepared withsecond section 144 disposed externally topacket 120. Thus, after the brewing step, the user can graspsecond section 144 and pull usedpouch 130 intopacket 120. - It is appreciated that any of a variety of means may be used to seal
packet 120 along seal lines 123. For example,seal lines 123 can be formed by heat sealing or other adhesive methods or press molding or crimping techniques.Interior portion 121 ofpacket 120, to which attachment membersecond section 142 is coupled, can be integral with or separate fromseal line 123.Brewing material 132 can include, for example, tea, coffee, herbal preparations, various plant material such as flowers, roots, stems, berries, leaves, and bark, or any other desired infusion material.Brewing material 132 can also dehydrated soups, broths, bouillons, seasonings, and the like. In some cases, brewingmaterial 132 can include pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, or other medicinal, chemical, or biological preparations. - In some cases, as shown in
FIG. 3 , attachment membersecond section 144′ can be coupled with anintermediate member 150′, which can in turn be coupled withinterior portion 121′. In such instances,intermediate member 150′ can be extended into, integrated with, or separate fromseal line 123′. In one embodiment,second section 144′ is coupled withintermediate member 150′ via a second section staple 151′, and anedge 152′ ofintermediate member 150′ is extended intoseal line 123′. In some embodiments,tear lines 124′ and 126′ can be printed on the exterior surface ofpacket 120′, along with instructions for usinginfusion system 100′ according to methods as described herein. -
FIG. 4 shows anexemplary infusion system 400 according to embodiments of the present invention.Infusion system 400 includes a pouch 430 for holding abrewing material 432, a sealable or sealedpacket 420 that houses pouch 430, and anattachment member 440. Afirst section 442 ofattachment member 440 can be coupled with pouch 430, and a second section 444 ofattachment member 440 can be coupled with aninterior portion 421 ofpacket 420. As shown here, second section 444 includes anattachment member extension 446 that is removably attached withseal line 423, and that extends throughseal line 423 at apacket insertion point 424 to the outside ofpacket 420. - In use, when a tea preparer wishes to remove pouch 430 from
packet 420, she can tearpacket 420 along a first tear line 426, and pull pouch 430 out ofpacket 420 or otherwise allow pouch 430 to fall out ofpacket 420. The tea preparer can then grasppacket 420, and dangle pouch 430 into a container of water. The tea can be brewed whileattachment member 440 is still coupled withinterior portion 421 ofpacket 420. When the tea is brewed the tea preparer can graspattachment member extension 446 and drawattachment member 440 through thepacket insertion point 424, which may be done without tearing away a portion ofpacket 420. This action pulls pouch 430 back inside ofpacket 420. As a result, used pouch 430 is conveniently stored, and the preparer is not distracted with a messy and unsightly used pouch 430. The preparer can even usepacket 420 to squeeze used pouch 430 to extract the last few drops of elixir from pouch 430. -
FIG. 5 shows an exemplary infusion system 500 according to embodiments of the present invention. Infusion system 500 includes apouch 530 for holding abrewing material 532, a sealable or sealedpacket 520 that housespouch 530, and an attachment member 540. Afirst section 542 of attachment member 540 can be coupled withpouch 530, and asecond section 544 of attachment member 540 can be coupled with an interior portion 521 ofpacket 520. As shown here,second section 544 includes an attachment member extension 546 that is removably attached or slidably coupled withseal line 523, and that extends throughseal line 523 at apacket insertion point 524 to the outside ofpacket 520. Attachment member extension 546 can be disposed within a flap section 527 ofpacket 520, such that attachment member 546 does not extend beyond the peripheral exterior boundary ofpacket 520, yet at the same time reside exterior to an interior sealedchamber 529 ofpacket 520. - In use, when a tea preparer wishes to remove
pouch 530 frompacket 520, she can tearpacket 520 along a first tear line 526, and pullpouch 530 out ofpacket 520 or otherwise allowpouch 530 to fall out ofpacket 520. The tea preparer can then grasppacket 520, and danglepouch 530 into a container of water. The tea can be brewed while attachment member 540 is still coupled with interior portion 521 ofpacket 520. When the tea is brewed the tea preparer can grasp attachment member extension 546 and draw attachment member 540 through thepacket insertion point 524. This may involve the preparer separating flap or pocket 527 so as to reach or access attachment member extension 546. In some embodiments, flap 527 is defined by portions of two opposing sides of a packet, where the portions are not sealed or adhered with one another. The drawing action pullspouch 530 back inside ofpacket 520. As a result, usedpouch 530 is conveniently stored, and the preparer is not distracted with a messy and unsightly usedpouch 530. The preparer can even usepacket 520 to squeeze usedpouch 530 to extract the last few drops of elixir frompouch 530. -
FIG. 6 shows anexemplary infusion system 600 according to embodiments of the present invention.Infusion system 600 includes a pouch 630 for holding abrewing material 632, a sealable or sealedpacket 620 that houses pouch 630, and anattachment member 640. Afirst section 642 ofattachment member 640 can be coupled with pouch 630, and a second section 644 ofattachment member 640 can be coupled with aninterior portion 621 ofpacket 620. As shown here, second section 644 includes anattachment member extension 646 that is removably attached withseal line 423 at a first packet insertion point 624 a and a second packet insertion point 624 b, so as to form a loop 648 disposed outside ofpacket 620 or otherwise external to aninterior packet chamber 629. An insertion point can be a place or location where an attachment member passes through a seal line. - In use, when a tea preparer wishes to remove pouch 630 from
packet 620, she can tearpacket 620 along a first tear line 626, and pull pouch 630 out ofpacket 620 or otherwise allow pouch 630 to fall out ofpacket 620. The tea preparer can then grasppacket 620, and dangle pouch 630 into a container of water. The tea can be brewed whileattachment member 640 is still coupled withinterior portion 621 ofpacket 620. When the tea is brewed the tea preparer can graspattachment member extension 646 and drawattachment member 640 through the packet insertion point 624. This action pulls pouch 630 back inside ofpacket 620. As a result, used pouch 630 is conveniently stored, and the preparer is not distracted with a messy and unsightly used pouch 630. The preparer can even usepacket 620 to squeeze used pouch 630 to extract the last few drops of elixir from pouch 630. - Although certain preferred embodiments and methods have been disclosed herein, it will be apparent from the foregoing disclosure to those skilled in the art that variations, modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents of such embodiments and methods may be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the above description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention which is defined by the appended claims.
Claims (5)
1. An infusion system for processing a brewing material, the system comprising:
a pouch containing a brewing material;
a packet releasably housing the pouch, the pouch having a first side and a second side;
an attachment member coupled with the pouch; and
a tag coupled with the attachment member,
wherein the first side of the packet is sealed with the second side of the packet via a seal line to provide a sealed interior chamber, wherein an edge of the tag extends into the seal line, and wherein the tag does not extend beyond a peripheral exterior boundary of the packet.
2. The infusion system of claim 1 , wherein the packet comprises a detachable portion, and the tag is coupled with the packet via the detachable portion.
3. A method of using an infusion system, the method comprising:
opening a packet of the infusion system along a first tear line to create a first tear opening;
removing a pouch from inside of the packet through the first tear opening;
placing the pouch into an infusion medium;
tearing a tab from the packet along a second tear line, wherein the tab is coupled with a tag via a seal line, and wherein the tag is coupled with the pouch via an attachment member and does not extend beyond a peripheral exterior boundary of the packet; and
pulling the tab to return the pouch inside of the packet.
4. A method of constructing an infusion system, the method comprising:
coupling a first section of an attachment member with a pouch;
coupling a second section of the attachment member with a tag;
placing the pouch and the attachment member between a first side of a packet and a second side of the packet; and
sealing the packet via a seal line, such that the pouch and the attachment member are contained within a sealed interior chamber of the packet, and such that the tag extends into the seal line and does not extend beyond a peripheral exterior boundary of the packet.
5. An infusion system for processing a brewing material, the system comprising:
a pouch containing a brewing material;
a packet releasably housing the pouch, the pouch having a first side and a second side; and
an attachment member coupled with the pouch;
wherein the first side of the packet is sealed with the second side of the packet via a seal line to provide a sealed interior chamber, and a flap section that is exterior to the sealed interior chamber, wherein the packet comprises a first packet insertion point for receiving the attachment member, and wherein the attachment member has an attachment member extension that is disposed within the flap section, that does not extend beyond a peripheral exterior boundary of the packet, and that resides exterior to the sealed interior chamber.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US12/604,927 US20100040740A1 (en) | 2005-10-18 | 2009-10-23 | Tea bag cozy |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US72815305P | 2005-10-18 | 2005-10-18 | |
US11/550,667 US20070087083A1 (en) | 2005-10-18 | 2006-10-18 | Tea bag cozy |
US12/604,927 US20100040740A1 (en) | 2005-10-18 | 2009-10-23 | Tea bag cozy |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/550,667 Continuation US20070087083A1 (en) | 2005-10-18 | 2006-10-18 | Tea bag cozy |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20100040740A1 true US20100040740A1 (en) | 2010-02-18 |
Family
ID=37948418
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/550,667 Abandoned US20070087083A1 (en) | 2005-10-18 | 2006-10-18 | Tea bag cozy |
US12/604,927 Abandoned US20100040740A1 (en) | 2005-10-18 | 2009-10-23 | Tea bag cozy |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/550,667 Abandoned US20070087083A1 (en) | 2005-10-18 | 2006-10-18 | Tea bag cozy |
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US (2) | US20070087083A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9382064B2 (en) | 2012-04-17 | 2016-07-05 | Ima Industries S.R.L. | Envelope for overwrapping filter bags for infusion products and sealing device for obtaining the overwrapping envelope |
CN108935827A (en) * | 2018-06-12 | 2018-12-07 | 瑞丽市谊灵草农业发展有限公司 | Gynura divaricata on behalf of the tea and preparation method thereof, preparation facilities and purposes |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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WO2008154520A1 (en) * | 2007-06-08 | 2008-12-18 | Robert Small | Infusible substance dispenser |
US20090246324A1 (en) * | 2008-03-28 | 2009-10-01 | Sluzas Daniel M | Infusion package |
JP2013502925A (en) * | 2009-08-28 | 2013-01-31 | グリーン マウンテン コーヒー ロースターズ,インク. | Beverage cartridge and filter production method using filter aid |
US20140342049A1 (en) * | 2013-05-16 | 2014-11-20 | Julie Forrest | Tea Storage, Infusion, and Disposal |
CN106395165B (en) * | 2016-12-02 | 2018-06-05 | 孙涛 | Independent tea bag |
US20180244464A1 (en) * | 2017-02-28 | 2018-08-30 | Stacey Essery | Beverage infusion pouch receptacle device and method |
US20220324639A1 (en) * | 2021-04-08 | 2022-10-13 | Kevin Blackwood | Wedge press for use with making hot or cold beverages and methods of making and using same |
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US2298420A (en) * | 1940-11-28 | 1942-10-13 | Ivers Lee Co | Marked and scored package |
US2334156A (en) * | 1941-02-01 | 1943-11-09 | Carl H Hansen | Package for tea and like commodities |
US2308241A (en) * | 1941-05-07 | 1943-01-12 | Jr George R Hogaboom | Individual service tea bag |
US2468464A (en) * | 1946-02-07 | 1949-04-26 | Ivers Lee Co | Infusion package |
US2498197A (en) * | 1948-01-09 | 1950-02-21 | Standard Brands Inc | Infusion package and method of making same |
US2614924A (en) * | 1949-03-08 | 1952-10-21 | Frank Gardner | Composition for fabricating paper and a process of making it |
US2728670A (en) * | 1954-05-04 | 1955-12-27 | Pakko Lab Inc | Porous container of a dry infusion commodity and cover combination |
US2800408A (en) * | 1954-06-29 | 1957-07-23 | Stanley S Fimple | Sanitary bag squeezer |
US2728671A (en) * | 1954-08-26 | 1955-12-27 | Pakko Lab Inc | Porous container of a dry infusion commodity and cover combination |
US2728672A (en) * | 1955-04-14 | 1955-12-27 | Young Julius | Porous container of a beverage infusion commodity and vessel cover package combination |
US2860989A (en) * | 1957-02-12 | 1958-11-18 | John R Geisinger | Beverage infusion package |
US2997160A (en) * | 1958-11-05 | 1961-08-22 | Int Minerals & Chem Corp | Package |
US2986269A (en) * | 1959-11-09 | 1961-05-30 | Goldberg Ernest | Package for tea or other infusion commodities |
US3057729A (en) * | 1961-08-11 | 1962-10-09 | William H Grant | Tea bag package |
US3175911A (en) * | 1962-04-24 | 1965-03-30 | Teepack Spezialmaschinen G M B | Infusion device for coffee or tea |
US3550528A (en) * | 1968-12-26 | 1970-12-29 | Thomas Montague O Neill | Teabag squeezer and holder |
US3861284A (en) * | 1973-07-09 | 1975-01-21 | Albert D Costello | Cup lids for use with teabags and the like |
US4055668A (en) * | 1975-03-25 | 1977-10-25 | S I G Schweizerische Industrie-Gesellschaft | Infusion package |
US4154853A (en) * | 1976-12-03 | 1979-05-15 | Adolf Rambold | Packed infusible bag for an infusible substance |
US4735810A (en) * | 1986-11-07 | 1988-04-05 | Dacal Manuel G | Coffee infusion bag |
US4875574A (en) * | 1989-02-24 | 1989-10-24 | Travers Barbara E | Infusion package |
US5091197A (en) * | 1990-06-08 | 1992-02-25 | Rosemary Ferro | Tea bag with squeezing device |
US5674544A (en) * | 1990-10-10 | 1997-10-07 | Tidy Tea Limited | Compressible infusion package |
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USD343270S (en) * | 1992-05-15 | 1994-01-18 | Ernest Catanese | Teabag container |
US5620724A (en) * | 1993-07-26 | 1997-04-15 | Adler; Richard S. | Drink container with holder for used concentrate packet |
US5552164A (en) * | 1993-10-12 | 1996-09-03 | Thomas J. Lipton, Co., Division Of Conopco, Inc. | Infusion package |
US5552165A (en) * | 1993-11-08 | 1996-09-03 | Thomas J. Lipton Co., Division Of Conopco, Inc. | Infusion package |
US5855938A (en) * | 1994-04-07 | 1999-01-05 | Thomas J. Lipton Co., Division Of Conopco, Inc. | Infusion packet |
US20040091580A1 (en) * | 1999-11-12 | 2004-05-13 | Chernov Yuriy D. | Infusion bag squeezing assembly |
US20050031738A1 (en) * | 2002-02-07 | 2005-02-10 | Christensen Henrik Kurt | Tea bag package |
US20060222738A1 (en) * | 2005-04-05 | 2006-10-05 | Ann-Marie Paz | Package for draining an infusion bag |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US9382064B2 (en) | 2012-04-17 | 2016-07-05 | Ima Industries S.R.L. | Envelope for overwrapping filter bags for infusion products and sealing device for obtaining the overwrapping envelope |
US10315837B2 (en) | 2012-04-17 | 2019-06-11 | Ima Industries S.R.L. | Device for sealing an overwrap envelope |
CN108935827A (en) * | 2018-06-12 | 2018-12-07 | 瑞丽市谊灵草农业发展有限公司 | Gynura divaricata on behalf of the tea and preparation method thereof, preparation facilities and purposes |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20070087083A1 (en) | 2007-04-19 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |