US20200071038A1 - Resilient Fluid Funneling Assembly for Use with a Fluid Dispensing Vessel - Google Patents

Resilient Fluid Funneling Assembly for Use with a Fluid Dispensing Vessel Download PDF

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Publication number
US20200071038A1
US20200071038A1 US16/114,505 US201816114505A US2020071038A1 US 20200071038 A1 US20200071038 A1 US 20200071038A1 US 201816114505 A US201816114505 A US 201816114505A US 2020071038 A1 US2020071038 A1 US 2020071038A1
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US
United States
Prior art keywords
fluid
resilient
removable cover
main body
funneling
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
Application number
US16/114,505
Inventor
Seth Shepard
Andrew Gillespie
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Zak Designs Inc
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Zak Designs Inc
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Filing date
Publication date
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Priority to US16/114,505 priority Critical patent/US20200071038A1/en
Assigned to ZAK DESIGNS, INC. reassignment ZAK DESIGNS, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: GILLESPIE, ANDREW, Shepard, Seth
Publication of US20200071038A1 publication Critical patent/US20200071038A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D47/00Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
    • B65D47/04Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
    • B65D47/32Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with means for venting
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D43/00Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D43/02Removable lids or covers
    • B65D43/0202Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element
    • B65D43/0225Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element secured by rotation
    • B65D43/0229Removable lids or covers without integral tamper element secured by rotation only on the inside, or a part turned to the inside, of the mouth of the container
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47GHOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G19/00Table service
    • A47G19/22Drinking vessels or saucers used for table service
    • A47G19/2205Drinking glasses or vessels
    • A47G19/2266Means for facilitating drinking, e.g. for infants or invalids
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D41/00Caps, e.g. crown caps or crown seals, i.e. members having parts arranged for engagement with the external periphery of a neck or wall defining a pouring opening or discharge aperture; Protective cap-like covers for closure members, e.g. decorative covers of metal foil or paper
    • B65D41/02Caps or cap-like covers without lines of weakness, tearing strips, tags, or like opening or removal devices
    • B65D41/04Threaded or like caps or cap-like covers secured by rotation
    • B65D41/0407Threaded or like caps or cap-like covers secured by rotation with integral sealing means
    • B65D41/0428Threaded or like caps or cap-like covers secured by rotation with integral sealing means formed by a collar, flange, rib or the like contacting the top rim or the top edges or the external surface of a container neck
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D41/00Caps, e.g. crown caps or crown seals, i.e. members having parts arranged for engagement with the external periphery of a neck or wall defining a pouring opening or discharge aperture; Protective cap-like covers for closure members, e.g. decorative covers of metal foil or paper
    • B65D41/02Caps or cap-like covers without lines of weakness, tearing strips, tags, or like opening or removal devices
    • B65D41/04Threaded or like caps or cap-like covers secured by rotation
    • B65D41/0492Threaded or like caps or cap-like covers secured by rotation formed by several elements connected together
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D41/00Caps, e.g. crown caps or crown seals, i.e. members having parts arranged for engagement with the external periphery of a neck or wall defining a pouring opening or discharge aperture; Protective cap-like covers for closure members, e.g. decorative covers of metal foil or paper
    • B65D41/02Caps or cap-like covers without lines of weakness, tearing strips, tags, or like opening or removal devices
    • B65D41/16Snap-on caps or cap-like covers
    • B65D41/18Snap-on caps or cap-like covers non-metallic, e.g. made of paper or plastics
    • B65D41/185Snap-on caps or cap-like covers non-metallic, e.g. made of paper or plastics with integral internal sealing means
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D43/00Lids or covers for rigid or semi-rigid containers
    • B65D43/26Mechanisms for opening or closing, e.g. pedal-operated
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D47/00Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
    • B65D47/04Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
    • B65D47/06Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages
    • B65D47/065Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages with hinged, foldable or pivotable spouts
    • B65D47/066Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages with hinged, foldable or pivotable spouts the spout being either flexible or having a flexible wall portion, whereby the spout is foldable between a dispensing and a non-dispensing position
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D47/00Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
    • B65D47/04Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
    • B65D47/06Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages
    • B65D47/08Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures
    • B65D47/0857Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts or tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages having articulated or hinged closures made separately from the base element provided with the spout or discharge passage
    • B65D47/0876Hinges without elastic bias
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D51/00Closures not otherwise provided for
    • B65D51/24Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes
    • B65D51/242Closures not otherwise provided for combined or co-operating with auxiliary devices for non-closing purposes provided with means for facilitating lifting or suspending of the container
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47GHOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G19/00Table service
    • A47G19/22Drinking vessels or saucers used for table service
    • A47G19/2205Drinking glasses or vessels
    • A47G19/2266Means for facilitating drinking, e.g. for infants or invalids
    • A47G19/2272Means for facilitating drinking, e.g. for infants or invalids from drinking glasses or cups comprising lids or covers
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2517/00Containers specially constructed to be opened by cutting, piercing or tearing of wall portions, e.g. preserving cans or tins
    • B65D2517/0001Details
    • B65D2517/0047Provided with additional elements other than for closing the opening
    • B65D2517/0049Straws, spouts, funnels, or other devices facilitating pouring or emptying
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2539/00Details relating to closures arranged within necks or pouring openings or in discharge apertures, e.g. stoppers
    • B65D2539/001Details of closures arranged within necks or pouring opening or in discharge apertures, e.g. stoppers
    • B65D2539/003Details of closures arranged within necks or pouring opening or in discharge apertures, e.g. stoppers provided with sealing flanges or ribs
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65DCONTAINERS 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
    • B65D2547/00Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
    • B65D2547/04Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
    • B65D2547/06Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with pouring spouts ot tubes; with discharge nozzles or passages
    • B65D2547/063Details of spouts
    • B65D2547/066Details of spouts inserted in or attached to the base element

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel, and more specifically, to a resilient fluid funneling assembly which facilitates the delivery of substantially all the liquid contained within a fluid dispensing vessel to the user thereof.
  • liquid dispensing containers and related covers or lids have been fabricated and sold over many decades. For many years, these liquid dispensing containers, and their associated covers or lids, have been designed to meet the particular needs of the users during their various activities. For example, liquid dispensing containers have been specifically designed for assorted events/activities such as running, bicycle riding, hiking, rock climbing, driving an automobile, attendance at sporting events, and the like. Much attention has been directed in these prior art designs to providing a liquid dispensing vessel which permits a user to consume or dispense liquid from the container in a reliable manner during the activity, and which further prevents accidental spilling of the liquid from the container in the event that the drinking vessel is accidentally overturned.
  • beverage containers which are going to be typically utilized during an athletic event, much attention has been directed towards developing beverage containers which can be operated by a single hand, and which further simultaneously allows for the equalization of air pressure within the internal cavity of the drinking vessel as the beverage contained within the vessel is consumed.
  • a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel and which avoids the detriments associated with the prior art products, and practices utilized heretofore is the subject matter of the present invention.
  • a first aspect of the present invention relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel which includes a resilient main body defining, at least in part, a fluid collection region, and wherein a fluid draining aperture is formed in a predetermined location of the main body, and extends therethrough; and an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit which cooperates with the main body, and which is further disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a distal end which delivers a source of fluid which is collected by the fluid collection region to a user.
  • Still another aspect of the present invention relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel which includes a resilient main body defining a fluid collection region which has a first end, and an opposite second end, and wherein the resilient main body further has a peripheral edge, and wherein a sidewall extends normally, and laterally outwardly relative to the peripheral edge of the resilient main body, and wherein the resilient main body further has a cross sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the first end, and in the direction of the second end, and wherein a fluid draining aperture is formed in the second end of the resilient main body; and an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit which cooperates with the main body, and which further is disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture, and wherein the fluid draining conduit further has a distal end which delivers a source of fluid which is collected by the fluid collection region, from a fluid dispensing vessel, to a user, and wherein the fluid draining conduit further is non-
  • Yet still another aspect of the present invention relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel which includes a fluid dispensing vessel have a main body defining an internal storage cavity, and a threaded neck region which allows access into the internal storage cavity of the fluid dispensing vessel; a source of a fluid to be dispensed and which is stored within the internal storage cavity which is defined by the fluid dispensing vessel; a primary removable cover which releasably, matingly, and screw-threadably cooperates with the threaded neck region of the fluid dispensing vessel, and wherein the primary removable cover further has a top and a bottom surface, and wherein the top surface further has a peripheral edge, and wherein a generally circular shaped, peripheral sidewall depends downwardly from the peripheral edge of the top surface, and wherein an aperture is defined in the top surface thereof, and wherein the bottom surface of the primary removable cover, and the generally circular shaped peripheral sidewall defines a generally cylindrically shaped internal cavity; a selectively movable
  • FIG. 1 is a partial, exploded, side elevation view of the present invention shown in a first position.
  • FIG. 2 is a second, partial, exploded, side elevation view of the present invention shown in a second position relative to what is seen in FIG. 1 .
  • FIG. 3 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view of a removable cover illustrated in a first position.
  • FIG. 4 is a fragmentary, perspective, top plan view of a primary removable cover which finds usefulness in the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, bottom, plan view of the primary removable cover which finds usefulness in the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view, with several features removed, and illustrating the primary removable cover which supports an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit in a given operational orientation.
  • FIG. 7 is a fragmentary, perspective, top and side view of the primary removable cover which is illustrated in FIG. 6 , and showing more of the structural details thereof.
  • FIG. 8 is a fragmentary, bottom, plan view of the primary removable cover, and which includes the resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 is a greatly enlarged, side elevation view of a resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 is a second, side elevation view of a resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention, and which is further taken from a position which is approximately 90 degrees offset from that illustrated in FIG. 9 .
  • FIG. 11 is a bottom plan view of the resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention.
  • FIG. 12 is a side elevation view of the resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention, and which illustrates the movement of the fluid draining conduit when it is forcibly engaged by a selectively movable secondary cover which is hingedly mounted on the top surface of the primary removable cover.
  • a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel is generally indicated by the numeral 10 in the various drawings which are provided.
  • the present invention 10 matingly cooperates with a fluid dispensing vessel 11 which is defined by a main body 12 .
  • the main body 12 includes a neck region 13 which has a threaded, exterior portion 14 .
  • the main body 12 further defines an internal storage cavity 15 which can enclose, and store a source of a fluid to be dispensed 16 until it is desired to be consumed by an end user. (not shown).
  • the internal cavity 15 can be accessed through the neck region 13 . While the neck region 13 is illustrated has having a threaded exterior portion 14 other means for mechanically cooperating or mating the neck region 13 with the remainder of the invention would work with an equal degree of success.
  • the present invention 10 cooperates with a primary removable cover 20 which releasably, matingly and screw threadably cooperates with the threaded exterior region or portion 14 , of the fluid dispensing vessel 11 .
  • the primary removable cover 20 has a first or top surface 21 , and an opposite, second or bottom surface 22 .
  • the top surface 21 is defined, at least in part, by a peripheral edge, and which is generally indicated by the numeral 23 .
  • first and second apertures, 24 and 25 are formed in given locations in the top surface 21 .
  • a circular shaped peripheral sidewall 30 depends downwardly, (in this view), from the peripheral edge 23 , of the top surface 21 .
  • the bottom surface 22 of the primary removable cover 20 , ( FIG. 5 ), and the circular shaped peripheral side wall 30 defines a generally cylindrically shaped internal cavity 31 .
  • the circular shaped peripheral sidewall 30 has formed therein a recessed region 32 which partially circumscribes the exterior facing surface thereof. This recessed region 32 receives and cooperates with a carrying handle 33 , ( FIG. 2 ), and which further rotatably cooperates with the primary removable cover 20 , so as to provide a means for a user to easily carry the invention.
  • the circular shaped peripheral sidewall 30 also includes a biased latch housing 34 which receives a reciprocally moveable, and biased latch button or member 35 therein, ( FIG. 2 ).
  • the enclosed latch (not shown), and the latch housing 34 are well known, and therefore further discussion regarding their operation is not warranted. The function of the latch housing 34 , and the associated latch will become more evident in the paragraphs which follow.
  • a selectively movable secondary cover 40 which cooperates with the primary removable cover 20 is illustrated in the drawings.
  • the selectively movable secondary cover 40 has a main body 41 which has a peripheral edge 42 ( FIG. 3 ).
  • the main body 41 is defined by a top surface 43 , and an opposite bottom surface 44 ( FIG. 12 ).
  • the main body 41 is hingedly coupled to the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20 in a given location. This hinged connection defines a resulting path of movement 45 which is arcuately shaped.
  • the arcuately shaped path of travel 45 is defined between a first closed position 46 , and where the main body 41 is secured in that position by the latch (not shown), and in covering relation relative to at least a portion of the top surface 41 , of the primary removable cover 20 ( FIG. 1 ); and a second, opened position 47 , as seen in FIG. 2 .
  • the selectively movable secondary cover 40 In the second position, the selectively movable secondary cover 40 is spatially located in a predetermined, uncovered location relative to the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20 . This path of movement 45 of the selectively movable secondary cover 40 will be discussed in greater detail, below.
  • the resilient fluid funneling assembly 10 ( FIGS. 9-12 ) includes a resilient main body 60 .
  • the resilient main body 60 is fabricated from a synthetic, resilient, polymeric material which is considered food-safe.
  • the resilient main body 60 also defines a fluid collection region 61 which has a first end 62 , and an opposite, second end 63 .
  • the resilient main body 60 is also defined, at least in part, by a peripheral edge 64 .
  • a sidewall 65 extends generally normally, laterally outwardly relative to the peripheral edge 64 of the resilient main body 60 , and further is defined, at least by part, by a top peripheral edge 66 .
  • This top peripheral edge 66 may be fabricated to have a given radius which reduces the edge thickness, thereof.
  • the resilient main body 60 further has a cross-sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the first end 62 , and in the direction of the second end 63 , thereof ( FIG. 11 ). As seen in the drawings, a fluid draining aperture 67 is formed in the second end 63 of the resilient main body 60 .
  • the top peripheral edge 66 of the side wall 65 which is located at the first end 62 of the resilient main body 60 fluid sealable cooperates with the fluid dispensing vessel 11 when the primary removable cover 20 releasably, and threadably cooperates with the neck region 13 of the fluid dispensing vessel 11 .
  • the resilient main body 60 further is sized or shaped so as to be wholly received or enclosed within the cylindrically shaped internal cavity 31 which is defined by the primary removable cover 20 . ( FIG. 8 ).
  • the resilient fluid funneling assembly 10 includes an elongated and resilient fluid draining conduit 70 which is mounted on, made integral with, or otherwise cooperates with the resilient main body 60 , and which further is disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture 67 .
  • the fluid draining conduit 70 has a first end 71 , and an opposite second or distal end 72 . ( FIG. 12 ). Still further, the fluid draining conduit 70 has an outside facing surface 73 , and an opposite, inside facing surface 74 , ( FIG. 10 ) and which further defines an internal passageway 75 .
  • the cross-sectional dimension of the internal passageway 75 is relatively large in comparison to the prior art thereby permitting a user to consume or “gulp” relatively large volumes of fluid 16 from the fluid dispensing vessel 11 .
  • fluid draining conduit 70 is operable to deliver the source of fluid 16 which is collected by the fluid collecting region 61 , from the fluid dispensing vessel 11 , and deliver the fluid to a user, not shown.
  • the fluid draining conduit 70 further is non-linear in shape, and further extends laterally, outwardly, relative to the resilient main body 60 .
  • the non-linear shape encourages a user to orient or hold the fluid dispensing vessel in a given orientation with their hand so that the flow of fluid 16 from the fluid dispensing vessel 11 , to the primary removable cover 20 , is generally directed, by gravity, in the direction of the fluid collection region 61 .
  • the fluid draining conduit 70 extends through the aperture 24 , which is defined in the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20 . ( FIG. 7 ).
  • the fluid draining conduit 70 has a non-uniform, outside facing cross-sectional dimension.
  • a flexible fluid sealing flange 76 extends radially outwardly relative to the outwardly facing surface 73 of the fluid draining conduit 70 , and which further fluid sealably cooperates with the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20 . This arrangement impedes the passage of the source of fluid 16 , there-between.
  • the primary removable cover 20 further mounts a venting valve 80 which selectively occludes the aperture 25 , which further is formed in the top surface 21 .
  • This valve or vent 80 is well known, and allows or facilitates air pressure equalization to occur in the fluid dispensing vessel 11 after the fluid or liquid 16 is removed by the user.
  • the fluid draining conduit 70 is made from a resilient, polymeric material which is similar to the resilient main body 60 .
  • the movement of the selectively movable secondary cover 40 along the arcuately shaped path of travel 45 , and into the first, closed position 46 effects a forcible bending or distortion of 77 of at least a portion of the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 in a manner such that the fluid 16 cannot pass to the distal end 72 , thereof, and a user cannot gain access to the distal end 72 of the fluid draining conduit 70 .
  • This distortion or bending causes a substantially complete occlusion of the internal passageway 75 .
  • the movement of the secondary cover 40 , to the second, open position 47 , causes the secondary cover 40 to be spatially oriented in a predetermined non-covering orientation relative to the primary removable cover 20 so as to permit access to the distal end 72 of the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 .
  • the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 further resiliently urges the selectively moveable secondary cover 40 , at least in part, along the arcuately shaped path of travel 45 between the first and second positions, 46 and 47 , respectively.
  • the sidewall 65 of the resilient main body 60 is semi-circular in shape, and is further located in a closely spaced, juxtaposed relationship relative to a portion of the downwardly depending, or laterally extending, and circular shaped sidewall 30 , which forms a portion of the primary moveable cover 20 .
  • the resilient main body 60 extends generally radially, inwardly relative to the downwardly depending and circular shaped sidewall 30 of the primary removable cover 20 . ( FIG. 8 ). As further appreciated from a study of the drawings, ( FIG.
  • the resilient main body 60 of the resilient fluid funneling assembly 10 is angularly oriented so as to drain fluid 16 which is received from the fluid dispensing vessel 11 , under the influence of gravity, and in a direction extending from the peripheral circular shape side wall 30 of the primary removable wall 20 , and in the direction or towards the fluid draining aperture 67 so as to facilitate the removal of the entire source of fluid 16 from the fluid dispensing vessel 11 .
  • the present invention relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly 10 for use with a fluid dispensing vessel 11 , which includes, as a first broad aspect, a resilient main body 60 defining, at least in part, a fluid collection region 61 , and wherein a fluid draining aperture 67 is formed in a predetermined location of the main body 60 and extends therethrough.
  • the resilient fluid funneling assembly 10 in its broadest aspect, includes an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit 70 which cooperates with the main body 60 , and which is further disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture 67 .
  • the fluid draining conduit 70 has a distal end 72 which delivers a source of fluid 16 which is collected by the fluid collection region 61 , to a user.
  • the resilient main body 60 releasably and matingly cooperates, at least in part, with a primary removable cover 20 .
  • the primary removable cover 20 further matingly cooperates with a fluid dispensing vessel 11 , and wherein the fluid dispensing vessel 11 encloses and stores the source of fluid 16 to be delivered to a user (not shown).
  • the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 is non-linear in shape, and extends laterally, outwardly relative to the resilient main body 60 , and further fluid sealably passes through an aperture 24 which is formed in the top surface 21 , of the primary removable cover 20 .
  • the fluid collection region 61 of the resilient main body 60 has a cross-sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the peripheral and downwardly or laterally depending sidewall 30 of the primary removable cover 20 , and in the direction of the fluid draining aperture 67 which is located radially, inwardly, relative to the peripheral sidewall 30 of the primary removable cover 20 .
  • the present invention 10 includes a selectively movable secondary cover 40 which is hingedly mounted on the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20 , and which further selectively moves along an arcuately shaped path of travel 45 , from a first, closed position 46 , and which forcibly bends, and or otherwise distorts 77 , at least a portion of the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 in a manner such at the source of fluid 16 cannot pass to the distal end 72 , thereof ( FIG. 12 ), and a user cannot gain access to the distal end 72 , of the fluid draining conduit 70 .
  • the selectively, movable secondary cover 40 can move to a second, open position 47 , under the resilient force exerted by the fluid draining conduit 70 when the selectively moveable secondary cover 40 is released by the latch from the first position 46 .
  • the selectively movable secondary cover 40 is spatially oriented relative to the primary removable cover 20 so as to permit access to the distal end 72 of the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 ( FIG. 2 ).
  • the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 further resiliently urges the selectively movable secondary cover 40 , at least in part, along the arcuately shaped path of travel 45 between the first and second positions 46 and 47 , respectively, ( FIG. 12 ), as it returns to its undistorted or unbent shape, as seen in FIG. 6 .
  • the present invention provides a very convenient means by which the total volume of fluid 16 which is received within a fluid dispensing vessel 11 can be delivered to a user for consumption, and no volume of fluid will be left behind in the fluid dispensing vessel 11 .
  • the present invention 10 is simple in design, solves a long felt need, and further can be easily removed or detached from the primary removable cover 20 in view of the flexible polymeric material from which it is fabricated, for purposes of cleaning so as to maintain the present invention in a suitable condition for long term use, and to further inhibit or avoid microbial growth or contamination.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Pediatric Medicine (AREA)
  • Closures For Containers (AREA)

Abstract

A resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel is described, and which includes a resilient main body defining, at least in part, a fluid collection region, and wherein a fluid draining aperture is formed in a predetermined location of the main body, and extends therethrough; and an elongated and resilient fluid draining conduit cooperates with the main body and which further is disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a distal end which delivers a source of fluid which is collected by the fluid collection region to a user.

Description

    TECHNICAL FIELD
  • The present invention relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel, and more specifically, to a resilient fluid funneling assembly which facilitates the delivery of substantially all the liquid contained within a fluid dispensing vessel to the user thereof.
  • BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  • Those skilled in the art will recognize that various liquid dispensing containers and related covers or lids have been fabricated and sold over many decades. For many years, these liquid dispensing containers, and their associated covers or lids, have been designed to meet the particular needs of the users during their various activities. For example, liquid dispensing containers have been specifically designed for assorted events/activities such as running, bicycle riding, hiking, rock climbing, driving an automobile, attendance at sporting events, and the like. Much attention has been directed in these prior art designs to providing a liquid dispensing vessel which permits a user to consume or dispense liquid from the container in a reliable manner during the activity, and which further prevents accidental spilling of the liquid from the container in the event that the drinking vessel is accidentally overturned.
  • With regard to drinking containers which are going to be typically utilized during an athletic event, much attention has been directed towards developing beverage containers which can be operated by a single hand, and which further simultaneously allows for the equalization of air pressure within the internal cavity of the drinking vessel as the beverage contained within the vessel is consumed.
  • While many possible designs have been developed to address these assorted needs, several shortcomings have become apparent after prolonged usage of these same prior art products.
  • For example, many users of these prior art drinking vessels often need to consume the contents of the drinking vessel quickly while engaged in various athletic pursuits. Moreover, many athletes often need to receive large volumes of the fluid to be dispensed in view of the vigorous athletic activity that they are pursuing. The prior art liquid dispensing containers have not, generally speaking, been designed to rapidly deliver large volumes of fluid, or other liquid from the dispensing container, in view of the concern that such liquid, in large volumes, would cause problems in the event that the drinking vessel was accidentally overturned. Consequently, smaller volumes of liquid are typically dispensed from most fluid dispensing containers. Moreover, the complexity of the various designs of the prior art drinking vessels have often impaired the ability of the same drinking vessel to dispense substantially all the contents of the fluid dispensing container. Those skilled in the art will recognize that often a small volume of fluid remains within the fluid dispensing vessel notwithstanding that the user has attempted to drain the entire contents of the same liquid dispensing vessel. In view of the complexity of the prior art devices and other drinking vessels employed, to date, problems often arise regarding how to effectively cleanse such drinking vessels, or fluid dispensing containers, in view of the likelihood that sticky residue or other contamination from the fluid contained within the drinking vessel coats the drinking vessel, or associated lid or cover, and thereby makes them either wholly or partially inoperative or undesirable. This trace residue often encourages the growth of microorganisms and further inhibit the proper operation of any sealing device or other dispensing assembly employed to selectively dispense the liquid or beverage from the fluid dispensing container.
  • A resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel and which avoids the detriments associated with the prior art products, and practices utilized heretofore is the subject matter of the present invention.
  • SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
  • A first aspect of the present invention relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel which includes a resilient main body defining, at least in part, a fluid collection region, and wherein a fluid draining aperture is formed in a predetermined location of the main body, and extends therethrough; and an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit which cooperates with the main body, and which is further disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a distal end which delivers a source of fluid which is collected by the fluid collection region to a user.
  • Still another aspect of the present invention relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel which includes a resilient main body defining a fluid collection region which has a first end, and an opposite second end, and wherein the resilient main body further has a peripheral edge, and wherein a sidewall extends normally, and laterally outwardly relative to the peripheral edge of the resilient main body, and wherein the resilient main body further has a cross sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the first end, and in the direction of the second end, and wherein a fluid draining aperture is formed in the second end of the resilient main body; and an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit which cooperates with the main body, and which further is disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture, and wherein the fluid draining conduit further has a distal end which delivers a source of fluid which is collected by the fluid collection region, from a fluid dispensing vessel, to a user, and wherein the fluid draining conduit further is non-linear in shape, and extends laterally, outwardly relative to the resilient main body, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a non-uniform, outside facing, cross-sectional dimension, and wherein a flexible, fluid sealing flange extends radially, outwardly, relative to the outwardly facing surface of the fluid draining conduit.
  • Yet still another aspect of the present invention relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel which includes a fluid dispensing vessel have a main body defining an internal storage cavity, and a threaded neck region which allows access into the internal storage cavity of the fluid dispensing vessel; a source of a fluid to be dispensed and which is stored within the internal storage cavity which is defined by the fluid dispensing vessel; a primary removable cover which releasably, matingly, and screw-threadably cooperates with the threaded neck region of the fluid dispensing vessel, and wherein the primary removable cover further has a top and a bottom surface, and wherein the top surface further has a peripheral edge, and wherein a generally circular shaped, peripheral sidewall depends downwardly from the peripheral edge of the top surface, and wherein an aperture is defined in the top surface thereof, and wherein the bottom surface of the primary removable cover, and the generally circular shaped peripheral sidewall defines a generally cylindrically shaped internal cavity; a selectively movable, secondary cover which is hingedly mounted on the top surface of the primary removable cover, and which further is arranged so as to selectively move along an arcuately shaped path of travel between a first, closed position, and a second, open position, and wherein in the second, open position the selectively moveable secondary cover is spatially oriented relative to the primary removable cover so as to permit access to the top surface of the primary removable cover; a resilient main body defining a fluid collection region which has a first end, and an opposite, second end, and wherein the resilient main body has a peripheral edge, and wherein a sidewall extends normally, laterally outwardly relative to the peripheral edge of the resilient main body, and further is defined, at least in part, by a top peripheral edge, and wherein the resilient main body further has a cross-sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the first end, and in the direction of the second end thereof, and wherein a fluid draining aperture is formed in the second end of the resilient main body, and wherein the top peripheral edge of the sidewall which is located at the first end of the resilient main body, fluid sealably cooperates with the fluid dispensing vessel when the primary removable cover threadably cooperates with the neck region of the fluid dispensing vessel, and wherein the resilient main body further is sized so as to be wholly received within the generally cylindrically shaped internal cavity which is defined by the primary removable cover; and an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit which cooperates with the resilient main body, and which further is disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a distal end which delivers the source of fluid which is collected by the fluid collection region, from the fluid dispensing vessel, to a user, and wherein the fluid draining conduit further is non-linear in shape, and extends laterally, outwardly relative to the resilient main body, and additionally extends through the aperture defined in the top surface of the primary removable cover, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a non-uniform, outside facing, cross-sectional dimension, and wherein a flexible, fluid sealing flange extends radially outwardly relative to the outwardly facing surface of the fluid draining conduit, and which further fluid sealably cooperates with the top surface of the primary removable cover so as to impede the passage of the source of fluid there-between, and wherein movement of the selectively movable secondary cover along the arcuately shaped path of travel into the first, closed position effects a forcible bending and/or distortion of at least a portion of the resilient fluid draining conduit in a manner such that the source of the fluid cannot pass to the distal end thereof, and a user cannot gain access to the distal end of the fluid draining conduit, and wherein movement of the secondary cover to the second, open position causes the secondary cover to be spatially oriented in a non-covering orientation relative to the primary removable cover so as to permit access to the distal end of the resilient fluid draining conduit, and wherein the resilient, fluid draining conduit further resiliently urges the selectively moveable, secondary cover, at least in part, along the arcuately shaped path of travel between the first and second positions.
  • These and other aspects of the present invention will be discussed in greater detail hereinafter.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
  • Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the following accompanying drawings.
  • FIG. 1 is a partial, exploded, side elevation view of the present invention shown in a first position.
  • FIG. 2 is a second, partial, exploded, side elevation view of the present invention shown in a second position relative to what is seen in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 3 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view of a removable cover illustrated in a first position.
  • FIG. 4 is a fragmentary, perspective, top plan view of a primary removable cover which finds usefulness in the present invention.
  • FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, bottom, plan view of the primary removable cover which finds usefulness in the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view, with several features removed, and illustrating the primary removable cover which supports an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit in a given operational orientation.
  • FIG. 7 is a fragmentary, perspective, top and side view of the primary removable cover which is illustrated in FIG. 6, and showing more of the structural details thereof.
  • FIG. 8 is a fragmentary, bottom, plan view of the primary removable cover, and which includes the resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 is a greatly enlarged, side elevation view of a resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 is a second, side elevation view of a resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention, and which is further taken from a position which is approximately 90 degrees offset from that illustrated in FIG. 9.
  • FIG. 11 is a bottom plan view of the resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention.
  • FIG. 12 is a side elevation view of the resilient fluid funneling assembly of the present invention, and which illustrates the movement of the fluid draining conduit when it is forcibly engaged by a selectively movable secondary cover which is hingedly mounted on the top surface of the primary removable cover.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
  • This disclosure of the invention is submitted in furtherance of the constitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent laws “to promote the progress of science and useful arts.” [Article I, Section 8].
  • A resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel is generally indicated by the numeral 10 in the various drawings which are provided. As best seen in FIGS. 2 and 6-12, the present invention 10 matingly cooperates with a fluid dispensing vessel 11 which is defined by a main body 12. The main body 12 includes a neck region 13 which has a threaded, exterior portion 14. The main body 12 further defines an internal storage cavity 15 which can enclose, and store a source of a fluid to be dispensed 16 until it is desired to be consumed by an end user. (not shown). The internal cavity 15 can be accessed through the neck region 13. While the neck region 13 is illustrated has having a threaded exterior portion 14 other means for mechanically cooperating or mating the neck region 13 with the remainder of the invention would work with an equal degree of success.
  • The present invention 10 cooperates with a primary removable cover 20 which releasably, matingly and screw threadably cooperates with the threaded exterior region or portion 14, of the fluid dispensing vessel 11. The primary removable cover 20 has a first or top surface 21, and an opposite, second or bottom surface 22. The top surface 21 is defined, at least in part, by a peripheral edge, and which is generally indicated by the numeral 23. As seen in FIG. 4, first and second apertures, 24 and 25, are formed in given locations in the top surface 21. These differently sized apertures, (24 and 25), and their functions, will be discussed in greater detail in the paragraphs that follow.
  • As seen in FIG. 4, a circular shaped peripheral sidewall 30 depends downwardly, (in this view), from the peripheral edge 23, of the top surface 21. The bottom surface 22 of the primary removable cover 20, (FIG. 5), and the circular shaped peripheral side wall 30 defines a generally cylindrically shaped internal cavity 31. Referring back now to FIG. 4, the circular shaped peripheral sidewall 30 has formed therein a recessed region 32 which partially circumscribes the exterior facing surface thereof. This recessed region 32 receives and cooperates with a carrying handle 33, (FIG. 2), and which further rotatably cooperates with the primary removable cover 20, so as to provide a means for a user to easily carry the invention. Further, the circular shaped peripheral sidewall 30 also includes a biased latch housing 34 which receives a reciprocally moveable, and biased latch button or member 35 therein, (FIG. 2). The enclosed latch (not shown), and the latch housing 34, are well known, and therefore further discussion regarding their operation is not warranted. The function of the latch housing 34, and the associated latch will become more evident in the paragraphs which follow.
  • A selectively movable secondary cover 40 which cooperates with the primary removable cover 20 is illustrated in the drawings. The selectively movable secondary cover 40 has a main body 41 which has a peripheral edge 42 (FIG. 3). The main body 41 is defined by a top surface 43, and an opposite bottom surface 44 (FIG. 12). As seen in the drawings (FIG. 2) the main body 41 is hingedly coupled to the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20 in a given location. This hinged connection defines a resulting path of movement 45 which is arcuately shaped. The arcuately shaped path of travel 45 is defined between a first closed position 46, and where the main body 41 is secured in that position by the latch (not shown), and in covering relation relative to at least a portion of the top surface 41, of the primary removable cover 20 (FIG. 1); and a second, opened position 47, as seen in FIG. 2. In the second position, the selectively movable secondary cover 40 is spatially located in a predetermined, uncovered location relative to the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20. This path of movement 45 of the selectively movable secondary cover 40 will be discussed in greater detail, below.
  • The resilient fluid funneling assembly 10 (FIGS. 9-12) includes a resilient main body 60. The resilient main body 60 is fabricated from a synthetic, resilient, polymeric material which is considered food-safe. The resilient main body 60 also defines a fluid collection region 61 which has a first end 62, and an opposite, second end 63. The resilient main body 60 is also defined, at least in part, by a peripheral edge 64. As illustrated in the drawings, a sidewall 65 extends generally normally, laterally outwardly relative to the peripheral edge 64 of the resilient main body 60, and further is defined, at least by part, by a top peripheral edge 66. This top peripheral edge 66 may be fabricated to have a given radius which reduces the edge thickness, thereof. This feature improves the ability of the resilient main body 60 to collect the fluid 16 which is coming or draining from the fluid dispensing vessel 11. The resilient main body 60 further has a cross-sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the first end 62, and in the direction of the second end 63, thereof (FIG. 11). As seen in the drawings, a fluid draining aperture 67 is formed in the second end 63 of the resilient main body 60. The top peripheral edge 66 of the side wall 65, which is located at the first end 62 of the resilient main body 60 fluid sealable cooperates with the fluid dispensing vessel 11 when the primary removable cover 20 releasably, and threadably cooperates with the neck region 13 of the fluid dispensing vessel 11. The resilient main body 60 further is sized or shaped so as to be wholly received or enclosed within the cylindrically shaped internal cavity 31 which is defined by the primary removable cover 20. (FIG. 8).
  • The resilient fluid funneling assembly 10 includes an elongated and resilient fluid draining conduit 70 which is mounted on, made integral with, or otherwise cooperates with the resilient main body 60, and which further is disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture 67. The fluid draining conduit 70 has a first end 71, and an opposite second or distal end 72. (FIG. 12). Still further, the fluid draining conduit 70 has an outside facing surface 73, and an opposite, inside facing surface 74, (FIG. 10) and which further defines an internal passageway 75. The cross-sectional dimension of the internal passageway 75 is relatively large in comparison to the prior art thereby permitting a user to consume or “gulp” relatively large volumes of fluid 16 from the fluid dispensing vessel 11. The internal passageway 75 communicates between the first end 71, and the distal, second end 72. It should be understood that fluid draining conduit 70 is operable to deliver the source of fluid 16 which is collected by the fluid collecting region 61, from the fluid dispensing vessel 11, and deliver the fluid to a user, not shown. The fluid draining conduit 70 further is non-linear in shape, and further extends laterally, outwardly, relative to the resilient main body 60. The non-linear shape encourages a user to orient or hold the fluid dispensing vessel in a given orientation with their hand so that the flow of fluid 16 from the fluid dispensing vessel 11, to the primary removable cover 20, is generally directed, by gravity, in the direction of the fluid collection region 61. Moreover, and when assembled, the fluid draining conduit 70 extends through the aperture 24, which is defined in the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20. (FIG. 7). The fluid draining conduit 70 has a non-uniform, outside facing cross-sectional dimension. Still further, and as seen in the drawings, a flexible fluid sealing flange 76, (FIG. 10), extends radially outwardly relative to the outwardly facing surface 73 of the fluid draining conduit 70, and which further fluid sealably cooperates with the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20. This arrangement impedes the passage of the source of fluid 16, there-between. The primary removable cover 20 further mounts a venting valve 80 which selectively occludes the aperture 25, which further is formed in the top surface 21. This valve or vent 80 is well known, and allows or facilitates air pressure equalization to occur in the fluid dispensing vessel 11 after the fluid or liquid 16 is removed by the user.
  • As will be appreciated, from a study of FIG. 12, the fluid draining conduit 70 is made from a resilient, polymeric material which is similar to the resilient main body 60. As further seen in FIG. 12, the movement of the selectively movable secondary cover 40 along the arcuately shaped path of travel 45, and into the first, closed position 46 effects a forcible bending or distortion of 77 of at least a portion of the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 in a manner such that the fluid 16 cannot pass to the distal end 72, thereof, and a user cannot gain access to the distal end 72 of the fluid draining conduit 70. This distortion or bending causes a substantially complete occlusion of the internal passageway 75. The movement of the secondary cover 40, to the second, open position 47, causes the secondary cover 40 to be spatially oriented in a predetermined non-covering orientation relative to the primary removable cover 20 so as to permit access to the distal end 72 of the resilient fluid draining conduit 70. The resilient fluid draining conduit 70 further resiliently urges the selectively moveable secondary cover 40, at least in part, along the arcuately shaped path of travel 45 between the first and second positions, 46 and 47, respectively.
  • As seen in the drawings, the sidewall 65 of the resilient main body 60, and which is located at the first end 62, thereof, is semi-circular in shape, and is further located in a closely spaced, juxtaposed relationship relative to a portion of the downwardly depending, or laterally extending, and circular shaped sidewall 30, which forms a portion of the primary moveable cover 20. The resilient main body 60 extends generally radially, inwardly relative to the downwardly depending and circular shaped sidewall 30 of the primary removable cover 20. (FIG. 8). As further appreciated from a study of the drawings, (FIG. 9) the resilient main body 60 of the resilient fluid funneling assembly 10, is angularly oriented so as to drain fluid 16 which is received from the fluid dispensing vessel 11, under the influence of gravity, and in a direction extending from the peripheral circular shape side wall 30 of the primary removable wall 20, and in the direction or towards the fluid draining aperture 67 so as to facilitate the removal of the entire source of fluid 16 from the fluid dispensing vessel 11.
  • OPERATION
  • The operation of the described embodiment of the present invention is believed to be readily apparent, and is briefly summarized at this point.
  • In its broadest aspect, the present invention, relates to a resilient fluid funneling assembly 10 for use with a fluid dispensing vessel 11, which includes, as a first broad aspect, a resilient main body 60 defining, at least in part, a fluid collection region 61, and wherein a fluid draining aperture 67 is formed in a predetermined location of the main body 60 and extends therethrough. Still further the resilient fluid funneling assembly 10, in its broadest aspect, includes an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit 70 which cooperates with the main body 60, and which is further disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture 67. The fluid draining conduit 70 has a distal end 72 which delivers a source of fluid 16 which is collected by the fluid collection region 61, to a user.
  • As seen in the drawings the resilient main body 60 releasably and matingly cooperates, at least in part, with a primary removable cover 20. The primary removable cover 20 further matingly cooperates with a fluid dispensing vessel 11, and wherein the fluid dispensing vessel 11 encloses and stores the source of fluid 16 to be delivered to a user (not shown). In one form of the invention, the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 is non-linear in shape, and extends laterally, outwardly relative to the resilient main body 60, and further fluid sealably passes through an aperture 24 which is formed in the top surface 21, of the primary removable cover 20. As earlier noted, the fluid collection region 61 of the resilient main body 60, has a cross-sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the peripheral and downwardly or laterally depending sidewall 30 of the primary removable cover 20, and in the direction of the fluid draining aperture 67 which is located radially, inwardly, relative to the peripheral sidewall 30 of the primary removable cover 20.
  • As earlier discussed, the present invention 10 includes a selectively movable secondary cover 40 which is hingedly mounted on the top surface 21 of the primary removable cover 20, and which further selectively moves along an arcuately shaped path of travel 45, from a first, closed position 46, and which forcibly bends, and or otherwise distorts 77, at least a portion of the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 in a manner such at the source of fluid 16 cannot pass to the distal end 72, thereof (FIG. 12), and a user cannot gain access to the distal end 72, of the fluid draining conduit 70. Still further, the selectively, movable secondary cover 40 can move to a second, open position 47, under the resilient force exerted by the fluid draining conduit 70 when the selectively moveable secondary cover 40 is released by the latch from the first position 46. In the second, open position 47, the selectively movable secondary cover 40 is spatially oriented relative to the primary removable cover 20 so as to permit access to the distal end 72 of the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 (FIG. 2). In this form of the invention the resilient fluid draining conduit 70 further resiliently urges the selectively movable secondary cover 40, at least in part, along the arcuately shaped path of travel 45 between the first and second positions 46 and 47, respectively, (FIG. 12), as it returns to its undistorted or unbent shape, as seen in FIG. 6.
  • Therefore it will be seen that the present invention provides a very convenient means by which the total volume of fluid 16 which is received within a fluid dispensing vessel 11 can be delivered to a user for consumption, and no volume of fluid will be left behind in the fluid dispensing vessel 11. The present invention 10 is simple in design, solves a long felt need, and further can be easily removed or detached from the primary removable cover 20 in view of the flexible polymeric material from which it is fabricated, for purposes of cleaning so as to maintain the present invention in a suitable condition for long term use, and to further inhibit or avoid microbial growth or contamination.
  • In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific as to structural and methodical features. It is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the specific features shown, and described, since the means herein disclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims, appropriately interpreted in accordance with the Doctrine of Equivalence.

Claims (21)

We claim:
1. A resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel, comprising:
a resilient main body defining, at least in part, a fluid collection region, and wherein a fluid draining aperture is formed in a predetermined location of the main body, and extends therethrough; and
an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit which cooperates with the main body, and which is further disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a distal end which delivers a source of fluid which is collected by the fluid collection region to a user.
2. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in in claim 1, and wherein the resilient main body releasably and matingly cooperates, at least in part, with a primary removable cover, and wherein the primary removable cover further matingly cooperates with a fluid dispensing vessel, and wherein the fluid dispensing vessel encloses, and stores the source of the fluid delivered to the user.
3. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 2, and wherein the resilient fluid draining conduit is non-linear in shape, and extends laterally, outwardly, relative to the resilient main body, and further fluid sealably passes through an aperture formed in a top surface of the primary removable cover.
4. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 3, and wherein the top surface of the primary removable cover has a peripheral edge, and is further defined, at least in part, by a circumscribing sidewall which depends laterally outwardly from the peripheral edge of the top surface, and wherein the primary removable cover has a bottom surface, and wherein the bottom surface of the primary removable cover, and the downwardly or laterally outwardly depending sidewall defines an internal cavity, and wherein the resilient main body of the resilient fluid funneling assembly is sized so as to be wholly received within the internal cavity which is defined by the primary removable cover, and is further oriented so as to facilitate the draining of substantially the entire source of fluid stored within the fluid dispensing vessel.
5. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 4, and wherein the downwardly depending sidewall of the primary removable cover is circular in shape, and wherein a portion of the resilient main body is semi-circular in shape, and which is further located in a closely spaced, and juxtaposed relationship relative to a portion of the downwardly depending, and circular shaped sidewall, and wherein the resilient main body extends generally radially, inwardly, relative to the depending, and circular shaped sidewall of the primary removable cover, and wherein the semi-circular shaped portion of the resilient main body fluid sealably engages the fluid dispensing vessel when the primary removable cover matingly and releasably cooperates with the fluid dispensing vessel.
6. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 5, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a non-uniform, outside facing, cross-sectional dimension, and wherein a flexible, fluid sealing flange extends radially outwardly relative to the outwardly facing surface of the fluid draining conduit, and which further fluid sealingly engages the top surface of the primary removable cover so as to impede the movement of the source of fluid through the aperture which is formed in the top surface of the primary removable cover.
7. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 6, and wherein the resilient main body of the resilient fluid funneling assembly is angularly oriented so as to drain fluid received from the fluid dispensing vessel, under the influence of gravity, and in a direction extending from the peripheral and depending sidewall of the primary removable cover, and in the direction of the fluid draining aperture so as to facilitate the removal of the entire source of fluid from the fluid dispensing vessel.
8. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 7, and wherein the fluid collection region of the resilient main body has a cross-sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the peripheral and depending sidewall of the primary removable cover, and in the direction of the fluid draining aperture which is located radially, inwardly relative to the peripheral sidewall of the primary removable cover.
9. A resilient fluid funnel assembly as claimed in claim 8, and further comprising:
a selectively movable, secondary cover which is hingedly mounted on the top surface of the first mentioned primary removable cover, and which further selectively moves along an arcuately shaped path of travel from a first, closed position, and which forcibly bends and/or distorts at least a portion of the resilient fluid draining conduit in a manner such that the source of the fluid cannot pass to the distal end thereof, and a user cannot gain access to the distal end of the fluid draining conduit, and a second, open position, and wherein, in the second, open position, the selectively moveable secondary cover is spatially oriented relative to the primary removable cover so as to permit access to the distal end of the resilient fluid draining conduit, and wherein the resilient, fluid draining conduit further resiliently urges the selectively moveable, secondary cover, at least in part, along the arcuately shaped path of travel between the first and second positions.
10. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 9, and wherein the resilient fluid funneling assembly is removably detached from the primary removable cover so as to permit an effective cleansing of the fluid funneling assembly, and a removal of unwanted contamination therefrom.
11. A resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel, comprising:
a resilient main body defining a fluid collection region which has a first end, and an opposite second end, and wherein the resilient main body further has a peripheral edge, and wherein a sidewall extends normally, and laterally outwardly relative to the peripheral edge of the resilient main body, and wherein the resilient main body further has a cross sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the first end, and in the direction of the second end, and wherein a fluid draining aperture is formed in the second end of the resilient main body; and
an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit which cooperates with the main body, and which further is disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture, and wherein the fluid draining conduit further has a distal end which delivers a source of fluid which is collected by the fluid collection region, from a fluid dispensing vessel, to a user, and wherein the fluid draining conduit further is non-linear in shape, and extends laterally, outwardly relative to the resilient main body, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a non-uniform, outside facing, cross-sectional dimension, and wherein a flexible, fluid sealing flange extends radially, outwardly, relative to the outwardly facing surface of the fluid draining conduit.
12. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 11, and wherein the resilient main body releasably, and matingly cooperates with a primary removable cover, and wherein the primary removable cover further releasably and screw threadably cooperates with a fluid dispensing vessel, and wherein the fluid dispensing vessel encloses, and stores the source of the fluid delivered to the user.
13. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 12, and wherein the fluid draining conduit fluid sealably passes through an aperture formed in a top surface of the primary removable cover, and wherein the flexible fluid sealing flange fluid sealingly engages the top surface of the primary removable cover so as to impede the source of fluid from passing therethrough the aperture which is formed in the top surface of the primary removable cover.
14. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 13, and wherein the top surface of the primary removable cover has a peripheral edge, and is further defined, at least in part, by a circular shaped sidewall which depends downwardly or laterally outwardly from the peripheral edge of the top surface, and wherein the primary removable cover has a bottom surface, and wherein the bottom surface of the primary removable cover, and the downwardly depending and circular shaped sidewall defines a generally cylindrically shaped internal cavity, and wherein the resilient main body of the resilient fluid funneling assembly is sized so as to be wholly received within the generally cylindrically shaped internal cavity, and is further oriented so as to facilitate the draining of substantially the entire source of fluid stored within the fluid dispensing vessel.
15. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 14, and wherein the sidewall of the resilient main body which is located at the first end, thereof, is semi-circular in shape, and is further located in a closely spaced, and juxtaposed relationship relative to a portion of the circular shaped sidewall forming a portion of the primary removable cover, and wherein the resilient main body extends generally radially, inwardly, relative to the circular shaped sidewall of the primary removable cover, and into the internal cavity defined by the primary removable cover.
16. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 15, and wherein the resilient main body of the resilient fluid funneling assembly is angularly oriented so as to drain the source of fluid received from the fluid dispensing vessel, under the influence of gravity, and in a direction extending from the peripheral, circular shaped sidewall of the primary removable cover, and in the direction of the fluid draining aperture so as to facilitate the removal of the entire source of fluid from the fluid dispensing vessel.
17. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 16, and further comprising:
a selectively movable, secondary cover which is hingedly mounted on the top surface of primary removable cover, and which further selectively moves along an arcuately shaped path of travel from a first, closed position, and which forcibly bends and/or otherwise distorts at least a portion of the resilient fluid draining conduit in a manner such that the source of the fluid cannot pass to the distal end thereof, and a user cannot gain access to the distal end of the fluid draining conduit, and a second, open position, and wherein, in the second, open position, the secondary cover is oriented in spaced relation relative to the primary removable cover so as to permit access to the distal end of the resilient fluid draining conduit, and wherein the resilient, fluid draining conduit further resiliently urges the selectively moveable, secondary cover, at least in part, along the arcuately shaped path of travel between the first and second positions.
18. A resilient fluid funneling assembly for use with a fluid dispensing vessel, comprising:
a fluid dispensing vessel have a main body defining an internal storage cavity, and a threaded neck region which allows access into the internal storage cavity of the fluid dispensing vessel;
a source of a fluid to be dispensed and which is stored within the internal storage cavity which is defined by the fluid dispensing vessel;
a primary removable cover which releasably, matingly, and screw threadably cooperates with the threaded neck region of the fluid dispensing vessel, and wherein the primary removable cover further has a top and bottom surface, and wherein the top surface further has a peripheral edge, and wherein a circular shaped, peripheral sidewall depends downwardly from the peripheral edge of the top surface, and wherein an aperture is formed in the top surface thereof, and wherein the bottom surface of the primary removable cover, and the circular shaped peripheral sidewall defines a generally cylindrically shaped internal cavity;
a selectively movable, secondary cover which is hingedly mounted on the top surface of the primary removable cover, and which further is arranged so as to selectively move along an arcuately shaped path of travel from a first, closed position, and a second, open position, and wherein in the second, open position the selectively moveable secondary cover is spatially oriented relative to the primary removable cover so as to permit access to the top surface of the primary removable cover;
a resilient main body defining a fluid collection region which has a first end, and an opposite second end, and wherein the resilient main body has a peripheral edge, and wherein a sidewall extends normally, laterally outwardly relative to the peripheral edge of the resilient main body, and further is defined, at least in part, by a top peripheral edge, and wherein the resilient main body further has a cross sectional dimension which diminishes when measured in a direction extending from the first end, and in the direction of the second end thereof, and wherein a fluid draining aperture is formed in the second end of the resilient main body, and wherein the top peripheral edge of the sidewall which is located at the first end of the resilient main body fluid sealably cooperates with the fluid dispensing vessel when the primary removable cover threadably cooperates with the neck region of the fluid dispensing vessel, and wherein the resilient main body further is sized so as to be wholly received within the cylindrically shaped internal cavity which is defined by the primary removable cover; and
an elongated, and resilient fluid draining conduit which cooperates with the resilient main body, and which further is disposed in fluid receiving relation relative to the fluid draining aperture, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a distal end which delivers the source of fluid which is collected by the fluid collection region, from the fluid dispensing vessel, to a user, and wherein the fluid draining conduit further is non-linear in shape, and extends laterally, outwardly relative to the resilient main body, and further extends through the aperture formed in the top surface of the primary removable cover, and wherein the fluid draining conduit has a non-uniform, outside facing, cross-sectional dimension, and wherein a flexible, fluid sealing flange extends radially outwardly relative to the outwardly facing surface of the fluid draining conduit, and which further fluid sealably cooperates with the top surface of the primary removable cover so as to impede the passage of the source of fluid therethrough, and wherein movement of the selectively movable secondary cover along the arcuately shaped path of travel and into the first, closed position effects a forcible bending and/or distortion of at least a portion of the resilient fluid draining conduit in a manner such that the source of the fluid cannot pass to the distal end thereof, and a user cannot gain access to the distal end of the fluid draining conduit, and wherein movement of the secondary cover to the second, open position causes the secondary cover to be spatially oriented in a non-covering orientation relative to the primary removable cover so as to permit access to the distal end of the resilient fluid draining conduit, and wherein the resilient, fluid draining conduit further resiliently urges the selectively moveable, secondary cover, at least in part, along the arcuately shaped path of travel between the first and second positions.
19. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 18, and wherein the sidewall of the resilient main body which is located at the first end, thereof, is semi-circular in shape, and is further located in a closely spaced, and juxtaposed relationship relative to a portion of the downwardly depending, circular shaped sidewall forming a portion of the primary removable cover, and wherein the resilient main body extends generally radially, inwardly, relative to the downwardly depending and circular shaped sidewall of the primary removable cover.
20. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 19, and wherein the resilient main body of the resilient fluid funneling assembly is angularly oriented so as to drain fluid received from the fluid dispensing vessel, under the influence of gravity, and in a direction extending from the peripheral circular shaped sidewall of the primary removable cover, and in the direction of the fluid draining aperture so as to facilitate the removal of the entire source of fluid from the fluid dispensing vessel.
21. A resilient fluid funneling assembly as claimed in claim 18, and wherein the top peripheral edge of the side wall has a radial edge formed therein so as to enhance the collection of the fluid moving from the fluid dispensing vessel to fluid collection region of the resilient main body.
US16/114,505 2018-08-28 2018-08-28 Resilient Fluid Funneling Assembly for Use with a Fluid Dispensing Vessel Abandoned US20200071038A1 (en)

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Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6609624B2 (en) * 2000-09-26 2003-08-26 Nippon Sanso Corporation Cap body of beverage container
US8550269B2 (en) * 2011-06-08 2013-10-08 Thermos L.L.C. Drink bottle and lid with cover for drink spout
US10512347B1 (en) * 2018-08-28 2019-12-24 Zak Designs, Inc. Dual-dispensing lid

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6609624B2 (en) * 2000-09-26 2003-08-26 Nippon Sanso Corporation Cap body of beverage container
US8550269B2 (en) * 2011-06-08 2013-10-08 Thermos L.L.C. Drink bottle and lid with cover for drink spout
US10512347B1 (en) * 2018-08-28 2019-12-24 Zak Designs, Inc. Dual-dispensing lid

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