WO2006102472A1 - Multi-compartment liquid dispensing device and methods of use - Google Patents

Abstract

A multi-compartment liquid dispensing device (1) includes an outer container (2) defining a first chamber for accommodating a first liquid (6) and an inner container (3) disposed within the outer container defining a second chamber for accommodating a second liquid (7). The dispensing device (1) additionally includes a dispensing unit (4) connected to the inner (3) and outer (2) containers, and has a plurality of passages configured to allow for the exiting of the first (6) and second (7) liquids separately and simultaneously from the dispensing device (1), regardless of its angular orientation.

Description

MULTI-COMPARTMENT LIQUID DISPENSING DEVICE AND

METHODS OF USE

[001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S. C. § 119 based on U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/664,935, filed March 24, 2005, the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Disclosure

[002] This disclosure relates generally to liquid dispensing devices and methods of use. In particular, this disclosure relates to liquid dispensing devices having multiple compartments for storing a plurality of different liquids intended for mixing upon pouring.

Background of the Disclosure

[003] Multi-compartment packaging in liquid dispensing devices is often employed when it may be necessary to keep the components of a composition separated until use. Such packaging may be useful for mixing and dispensing two or more liquids simultaneously. Such liquids may be kept separate in the packaging and not brought into contact or mixed until after they are dispensed from the dispensing device.

[004] There may be difficulty, however, in combining such liquids at the point of use. Often these liquids must be combined in accurate proportions relative to each other, and this may require that a certain, predetermined quantity of each liquid be simultaneously and accurately measured out. [005] There have been many attempts to provide multi-compartment liquid dispensing devices that codispense two or more liquids. For example, U.S. Patent No. 3,851 ,800 discloses a plural-chambered liquid dispenser for dispensing liquids stored within the dispenser by controlling the venting of air into the chambers through air-venting tubes. Besides being susceptible to clogging, this dispenser must be in a predetermined pouring position to be effective. Requiring a device to be in a predetermined pouring position may present drawbacks in certain applications, for example, in confined spaces or in a fast- paced environment, such as a restaurant and/or bar.

[006] The present disclosure provides multi-compartment liquid dispensing devices and methods of using the same that address some or all of the aforementioned shortcomings of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[007] In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, a multicompartment liquid dispensing device includes a rigid outer container defining a first chamber for accommodating a first liquid and an inner container disposed within the outer container defining a second chamber for accommodating a second liquid. The dispensing device additionally includes a dispensing unit connected to the inner and outer containers, and has a plurality of passages configured to allow for the exiting of the first and second liquids separately and simultaneously from the dispensing device, regardless of the angular orientation of the dispensing device about a central longitudinal axis of the dispensing device. [008] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a multicompartment beverage dispensing device includes a first chamber accommodating a first liquid and a second chamber accommodating a second liquid. The dispensing device additionally includes a dispensing unit connected to the first and second chambers, and has a plurality of passages configured to allow for the pouring of the first and second liquids simultaneously from the dispensing device at substantially the same volumetric ratio, regardless of the angular orientation of the dispensing device about a central longitudinal axis of the dispensing device.

[009] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a multi-compartment liquid dispensing device includes a first chamber for accommodating a first liquid and a second chamber for accommodating a second liquid. The dispensing device additionally includes a dispensing unit connected to the first and second chambers, and has at least one first chamber exit opening and at least one second chamber exit opening, at least a portion of the first chamber exit opening is disposed at the same radial distance away from a central longitudinal axis of the dispensing device as at least a portion of the second chamber exit opening.

[010] In accordance with still another aspect of the present disclosure, a multi-compartment liquid dispensing device includes a first chamber for accommodating a first liquid, a second chamber for accommodating a second liquid, and a dispensing unit disposed within the first chamber that includes a plurality of passages configured to assist in the simultaneous dispensing of the first and second liquids. The dispensing unit further includes a gate member having a plurality of channels forming a portion of the passages and a pouring member having a plurality of openings forming a portion of the passages.

[011] A further aspect of the disclosure includes a method for dispensing a plurality of liquids from a multi-compartment liquid dispensing device. The method includes pouring a first liquid from a first compartment and pouring a second liquid from a second compartment simultaneously with the pouring of the first liquid, regardless of the angular orientation of the dispensing device about a central longitudinal axis of the dispensing device, the second compartment being fluidly separated from the first compartment. The method additionally includes maintaining the first and second liquids separated until the first and second liquids have traveled past exit openings of the dispensing device.

[012] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not restrictive of the disclosure, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate one embodiment of the disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

[014] Fig. 1A is perspective view of a multi-compartment liquid dispensing device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[015] Fig. 1 B is an exploded view of the dispensing device of Fig. 1A.

[016] Fig. 2A is a schematic view of a gate member of the dispensing device of Fig. 1B. [017] Fig. 2B is a top view taken at line 2B-2B of the gate member illustrated in Fig. 2A.

[018] Fig. 2C is a bottom view taken at line 2C-2C of the gate member illustrated in Fig. 2A.

[019] Fig. 2D is a cross-sectional view taken at line 2D-2D of the gate member illustrated in Fig. 2B.

[020] Fig. 2E is a cross-sectional view taken at line 2E-2E of the gate member illustrated in Fig. 2B.

[021] Fig. 3A is a schematic view of a pouring member of the dispensing device of Fig. 1 B.

[022] Fig. 3B is a top view taken at line 3B-3B of the pouring member illustrated in Fig. 3A.

[023] Fig. 3C is a bottom view taken at line 3C-3C of the pouring member illustrated in Fig. 3A.

[024] Fig. 3D is a cross-sectional view taken at line 3D-3D of the component illustrated in Fig. 3C.

[025] Fig. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in Fig. 1A illustrating possible paths of fluid flow.

[026] Fig. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the dispensing device in Fig. 1A illustrating additional possible paths of fluid flow.

[027] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the dispensing device of Fig. 1 A in an exemplary tilted position during pouring.

[028] Fig. 7 is a side view of a dispensing device including a baffle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [029] Fig. 8 is a top view of the dispensing device of Fig. 7 with the dispensing unit removed.

[030] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the baffle of Figs. 7 and 8.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[031] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the disclosure, an example of which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[032] For ease of description, the article of this disclosure is described in an upright position, and terms such as upper, lower, inclined, etc. are used with reference to this position. However, the article of this disclosure may be manufactured, stored, transported, and sold in an orientation other than the position described.

[033] Fig. 1A depicts an exemplary embodiment of a multi-compartment liquid dispensing device 1 according to the present disclosure. The multicompartment liquid dispensing device 1 includes a central longitudinal axis 12, an outer container 2 accommodating an outer liquid 6, and an inner container 3 disposed within the hollow of the outer container 2 and accommodating an inner liquid 7. The dispensing device 1 further includes a closure member 5 for releasably sealing the outer and inner containers 2, 3.

[034] Referring to Fig. 1B, the dispensing device 1 may additionally include a dispensing unit 4 comprising a gate member 8 and a pouring member 9 for directing the flow of outer and inner liquids 6, 7 from their respective outer and inner compartments 2, 3 to the external environment. As will be described in more detail below, inner container 3, gate member 8, and pouring member 9 may be made as a single unit or as several units joined together and configured to be received within an interior portion 23 of outer container 2.

[035] Outer container 2 includes an upper end 21 , a lower end 22, and a pouring orifice 25 in the upper end 21. Outer container 2 may be any suitable receptacle for accommodating the outer liquid 6; for example, outer container 2 may be a rigid glass bottle. Outer container 2 may alternatively be made from any other suitable noncontaminating, rigid or flexible material that provides sufficient strength for accommodating the outer liquid 6. Such alternative materials may include, but are not limited to, plastics such as polyethylene, ceramics, and/or metals. Outer container 2 may be of any color or tint desired, and may also be transparent or opaque, depending on the application or desired appearance.

[036] Outer container 2 may have any desired shape and/or configuration such as, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape. Additionally, outer container 2 may have any desired cross-sectional configuration such as, for example, a substantially elliptical configuration. Furthermore, outer container 2 may also have one or more cross-sectional configurations and/or shapes along its length. For example, outer container 2 may have a wide base at the lower end 22 of the outer container 2 and a relatively narrow tapered neck 24 near the upper end 21. The overall dimensions such as length, diameter, and volume of outer container 2 may vary. For example, as will be discussed below, the overall dimensions of the outer container 2 may depend on the desired pouring ratio between the outer and inner liquids 6, 7 of the dispensing device 1. [037] The neck 24 of outer container 2 may be configured such that the closure member 5 may be releasably secured to the outer container 2. For example, the upper end 21 of the outer container 2 may comprise protrusions, such as external screw threads 110, that mate with complementary internal screw threads (not shown) provided on closure member 5, as discussed below.

[038] Still referring to Fig. 1 B, inner container 3 may be held in place within outer container 2 by the dispensing unit 4 such that inner container 3 extends from the pouring orifice 25 into the interior portion 23 of outer container 2. Inner container 3 includes an upper end 31 , a lower end 32 spaced from the bottom of the outer container 2, and a chamber 33 having a pouring orifice 34 in the upper end 31. Inner container 3 may be any suitable receptacle for accommodating the inner liquid 7 in accordance with the present disclosure. For example, inner container 3 may be a rigid bottle or a flexible deformable container. Similar to the outer container 2, the inner container 3 may be made from any suitable noncontaminating material that provides sufficient strength for accommodating the inner liquid 7. In addition, inner container 3 may be of any color or tint, and may be transparent or opaque. Inner container 3 may have any desired shape and/or configuration, such as the cylindrical shape illustrated in Figs. 1A and 1B. The overall dimensions such as length, diameter, and volume of the inner container 3 may vary depending on the application and size of the outer container 2. For example, the overall volume of the inner container 3 may depend on the desired pouring ratio between the inner and outer liquids 7, 6 of the dispensing device 1. [039] Closure member 5 may include a cap 51 having a dependent skirt 52. As noted above, cap 51 may be configured to releasably close the inner and outer containers 3, 2 so that the inner and outer liquids 7, 6 within the dispensing device 1 are prevented from escaping through the dispensing unit 4. As noted above, when external screw threads 110 are provided on neck 24, dependent skirt 52 may comprise complementary internal screw threads (not shown) configured to engage the external screw threads 110. Alternatively, cap 51 may snap fit onto the outer container 2, may be connected to the outer container 2 by a hinge, or may comprise a plug type member such as a cork. Cap 51 may have any suitable size, shape, and/or configuration for effectively releasably sealing the pouring orifices 25, 34 provided in the outer and inner containers 2 and 3, respectively. Cap 51 may be fabricated from any suitable process, such as, for example, extrusion. Additionally, cap 51 may comprise any suitable materials. Such materials include, but are not limited to, metals and/or plastics.

[040] As mentioned above, dispensing device 1 may include a dispensing unit 4 including a gate member 8 and a pouring member 9. As will be discussed below, the gate member 8 and pouring member 9 cooperate with the inner and outer containers 3, 2 to form openings and channels that permit the inner and outer liquids 7, 6 to be poured from the inner and outer containers 3, 2 simultaneously in predetermined metered ratios.

[041] As shown in Fig. 1B, gate member 8 includes a generally cylindrical shape having substantially the same outer diameter as inner container 3, and is configured to fixedly attach to the upper end 31 of the inner container 3. However, gate member 8 may comprise any shape and/or configuration suitable for assisting in the dispensing of a plurality of liquids in accurately measured predetermined pour ratios. Referring to the particulars of the gate member illustrated in Figs. 2A-2E, gate member 8 may include a lower attachment portion 81 , a central portion 82, and an upper attachment portion 83. The lower attachment portion 81 may include a slightly smaller outer diameter than the central portion 82 and the upper attachment portion 83, and may include a plurality of downwardly extending flexible barbs or prongs 84 facing radially outwardly. The barbs 84 define the lower periphery of the gate member 8 and may be configured to engage a lip (not shown) provided adjacent the pouring orifice 34 of the upper end 31 of the inner container 3. The attachment of gate member 8 to inner container 3 may provide a snap-in type, liquid-tight coupling. Alternatively, any suitable arrangement for providing a liquid-tight attachment of gate member 8 to inner container 3 may be used. For example, gate member 8 may be glued to the inner container 3, or gate member 8 and inner container 3 may be formed integral within one another. In those instances where gate member 8 and inner container 3 comprise a one-piece construction, the barbs 84 would not be required.

[042] Gate member 8 further comprises a plurality of grooves or recesses 85 formed circumferentially about an outer surface 89 of the gate member 8. As shown in Fig. 2A, grooves 85 may extend from a top surface 111 of the gate member 8 to an intermediate location on the central portion 82 of the gate member 8. The bottom terminating portion 112 of the grooves 85 may be curved, as illustrated in Fig. 2A, or alternatively may be formed with a flat terminating portion. Grooves 85 may also include a semicircular or curved V shaped cross- section, as illustrated in Fig. 2B, or alternatively may be formed in any other appropriate shape, such as, for example, a straight V shape or open-square shape. Although Figs. 2A and 2B illustrate the gate member 8 having six grooves 85, it is understood that more or less grooves 85 may be included in the gate member 8. As will be discussed below, the number, size, and shape of the grooves 85 may be varied based on the type and desired flow rate of a particular liquid within the dispensing device 1.

[043] Referring to Figs. 2B-2D, gate member 8 may additionally include a plurality of circumferentially arranged inner channels 86 extending from the top surface 111 of the gate member 8 through to a bottom surface 114 of the gate member 8. As illustrated in Fig. 2B, the inner channels 86 may be positioned circumferentially between the grooves 85 formed in the outer surface 89 of the gate member 8. The inner channels 86 may include a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape, but alternatively could include any other appropriate cross- section, such as, for example, a circular cross-sectional shape. In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the inner channels 86 may be substantially constant from the top surface 111 to the bottom surface 114 of gate member 8, or could include a tapering or otherwise varying cross-sectional shape between the top and bottom surfaces 111 , 114 of the gate member 8.

[044] Similar to the grooves 85, the gate member 8 may include six inner channels 86; however, it is understood that more or less inner channels 86 may be included in the gate member 8. In addition, gate member 8 may include the same number of inner channels 86 as grooves 85, or alternatively, may include more or less inner channels 86 than grooves 85. As will be discussed below, the number, size, and shape of the inner channels 86 may be varied based on the type and desired flow rate of a particular liquid within the dispensing device 1.

[045] Grooves 85 and inner channels 86 may be formed within gate member 8 during the fabrication process of gate member 8. However, in some embodiments, gate member 8 may be fabricated without grooves 85 and inner channels 86, and consequently, grooves 85 and inner channels 86 may be formed by any suitable process, such as, for example, drilling.

[046] Referring back to Fig. 1 B, the pouring member 9 of dispensing unit 4 may include a substantially circular disk having generally the same outer diameter as the inner container 3 and the gate member 8. However, pouring member 9 may comprise any other shape and/or configuration suitable for assisting in the dispensing of a plurality of liquids in accurately measured predetermined pour ratios. Referring to the pouring member 9 illustrated in detail in Figs. 3A-3D, pouring member 9 further includes an upper portion 91 and a lower portion 92. The upper portion 91 may comprise an upwardly extending dependent skirt 93. The skirt 93 may define the outer and upper peripheries of the pouring member 9.

[047] Pouring member 9 may further include a plurality of circular openings or holes 95, 96. These openings may be formed as a plurality of large openings 95 and a plurality of small openings 96, all disposed below and within the confines of skirt 93. The large and small openings 95, 96 may be arranged in an alternating circular pattern adjacent the dependent skirt 93. In addition, as shown, for example, in Fig. 3B, the large openings 95 and small openings 96 may be arranged to have portions the same radial distance away from the central longitudinal axis 12 of the dispensing device 1. More particularly, large openings 95 and small openings 96 may be arranged to share the same radial-most distance from axis 12, with this radial-most distance being adjacent the skirt 93.

[048] Although the accompanying figures show an exemplary embodiment of the pouring member 9 having six large circular openings 95 and six small circular openings 96, it is understood that the number, size, and shape of one or more of the openings 95, 96 may be varied to accommodate the dispensing of different liquids from the inner and outer containers 3, 2. Particularly, the sizes of the openings 95, 96 may be varied to accommodate liquids of differing viscosities or densities to vary pouring ratios of the inner and outer liquids 7, 6 relative to the other. For example, to dispense a greater amount of the inner liquid 7 relative to the outer liquid 6, the size of the small openings 96 may be increased without changing the size of the large openings 95.

[049] Pouring member 9 may further comprise a raised central section 97. The raised central section 97 may be disposed on a top face 98 and within the circular array of openings 95, 96. The raised central section 97 may assist in ensuring that residual inner and outer liquids 7, 6 do not collect on the top face 98 of pouring member 9.

[050] The lower portion 92 of pouring member 9 may comprise a plurality of supports 99 extending substantially downward in a direction away from dependent skirt 93. The supports 99 may comprise substantially the same outer diameter as the dependent skirt 93, the gate member 8, and the inner container 3. In addition, the supports 99 may define the lower and outer peripheries of the pouring member 9. The supports 99 may be configured such that they sealingly mate within the grooves 85 (Figs. 2A, 2B, and 2E) formed in gate member 8 so as to align the grooves 85 and inner channels 86 of gate member 8 with the large openings 95 and small openings 96 of the pouring member 9, respectively. It is understood that any suitable manner of aligning the grooves 85 and inner channels 86 with the openings 95, 96 may be used.

[051] Pouring member 9 may also include a plurality of centrally disposed flexible barbs 100 arranged around a central skirt 101 extending downwardly from the raised central section 97. As shown in Fig. 3D, the central skirt 101 may extend substantially in the same vertical direction as supports 99 and may be arranged in a circular configuration. The central skirt 101 and associated barbs 100 may be configured to facilitate liquid-tight, snap-in coupling of the gate member 8 to the pouring member 9. In such an embodiment, the barbs 100 may extend radially outwardly and anchor against lip 87 (Fig. 2D) of the gate member 8. Alternatively, any suitable means of attaching gate member 8 to pouring member 9 may be used. For example, gate member 8 may be glued or otherwise attached to the pouring member 9. In an alternative embodiment, dispensing unit 4 may comprise a one-piece construction with the configuration of the gate member 8 and pouring member 9 described above. In such an alternative embodiment, the barbs 100 would not be required.

[052] Figs. 4 and 5 illustrate the dispensing unit 4, including the gate member 8 and pouring member 9, attached to the inner and outer containers 3, 2. Referring in particular to Fig. 4, the neck 24 of the outer container 2 may include a constant diameter inner surface portion 120 extending below the pouring orifice 25, and a tapering inner surface portion 122 extending below the constant diameter inner surface portion 120. When the dispensing unit 4 is received within the outer container 2, the grooves 85 of the gate member 8 in conjunction with the constant diameter inner surface portion 120 and tapering inner surface portion 122 of outer container 2 together serve to form a plurality of outer entrance openings 126 and outer channels 128 for communicating with the outer liquid 6 of the outer container 2. The large openings 95 formed in pouring member 9 communicate with the outer channels 128 and form outer exit openings 130 of the dispensing unit 4. Movement of the outer liquid 6 from outer container 2 through the outer entrance openings 126, outer channels 128, and outer exit openings 130 of the dispensing unit 4 is depicted by way of arrows 132. In an alternative arrangement of the dispensing device 1 , the grooves 85 formed in the outer surface 89 of the gate member 8 could be replaced with internal passages similar to inner channels 86, except that the internal passages would include an entrance opening on the outer surface 89 of the gate member 8. In such an alternative arrangement, the neck 24 of the outer container 2 would not be required to form a portion of the outer entrance openings 126 and outer channels 128.

[053] Fig. 5 illustrates a cross-section of the dispensing unit 4 and outer container 2, including the passages transporting the inner liquid 7 from the inner container 3 to outside the dispensing device 1. In particular, the inner channels 86 formed in gate member 8 form inner entrance openings 134 and inner channels 136 of the dispensing unit 4. The small openings 96 formed in pouring member 9 communicate with the inner channels 136 and form inner exit openings 138 of the dispensing unit 4. Movement of the inner liquid 7 from inner container 3 through the inner entrance openings 134, inner channels 136, and inner exit openings 138 of the dispensing unit 4 is depicted by way of arrows 140. [054] Fig. 6 illustrates pouring of the separated inner and outer liquids 7, 6 from the dispensing device 1. The dispensing device 1 is tilted such that the inner and outer liquids 7, 6 may be poured through the dispensing unit 4, including the gate member 8 and the pouring member 9, separately and simultaneously so that the liquids mix upon leaving the dispensing unit 4. As the liquids may be dispensed in a manner indicated by arrows 200, the inner container 3 and the outer container 2 may be vented with air, as indicated by arrows 300, flowing in a direction opposite the direction of flow of inner and outer liquids 7, 6 and through the dispensing unit 4.

[055] As shown by the exemplary arrows in Fig. 6, the liquid or air may flow into or out of the inner container 3 through any of the passages formed in the dispensing unit 4. Thus, one exemplary advantage of having dispensing unit 4 with exit openings 95, 96 arranged in a circular pattern is that any of the openings 95, 96 may be used for pouring, and the dispensing device 1 may dispense inner and outer liquids 7, 6 simultaneously, regardless of angular orientation of the dispensing device 1 about the central longitudinal axis 12.

[056] In some embodiments, because the outer container 2 and the inner container 3 may have substantially different shapes and/or configurations, inner and outer liquids 7, 6 may not pour through the dispensing unit 4 at the same rate at all angular orientations of the dispensing device. Consequently, there exists the possibility of inadvertently altering the desired pouring ratio of one liquid with respect to the other based on the angular orientation of the dispensing device. Figs. 7 and 8 illustrate such a dispensing device 1' having substantially different shapes between the inner and outer containers. In particular, the dispensing device V of Figs. 7 and 8 includes a non-symmetric outer container 2' having a relatively short and wide eliptically shaped body having relatively enlarged shoulder portions P, and a symmetric cylindrical inner container 3. In order to compensate for the different pouring dynamics of the inner and outer containers 3, 2' based on their different shapes, inner container 3 may include a baffle 400 rigidly secured within inner container 3 and configured so that the pouring dynamics of the inner container 3 substantially match the pouring dynamics of the outer container 2' at all angular orientations.

[057] As shown in Fig. 9, an exemplary embodiment of baffle 400 may include a substantially circular disk that includes generally the same outer diameter as the inner diameter of inner container 3. However, baffle 400 may comprise any other shape and/or configuration suitable for mating with the inner container 3. Baffle 400 may further include an opening 402 and a dependent skirt 404. The skirt 404 may define the outer periphery of the baffle 400 and provide a surface for securing the baffle 400 to the inner container 3 in any conventional manner. As shown in Fig. 9, opening 402 may be formed as a single, centrally- located, elliptical opening extending across the baffle 400 so that the baffle 400 effectively restricts the flow of inner liquid 7 from the inner container 3 to the dispensing unit 4 at certain angular orientations of the dispensing device and does not significantly restrict the flow of inner liquid 7 at other angular orientations. It is understood that the number, size, shape, orientation, and location of the opening 402 may be varied so as to provide for substantially the same pouring dynamics between the inner and outer container 3, 2'. For example, opening 402 could be shaped as a rounded slot rather than elliptical as shown. [058] Referring again to Figs. 7 and 8, as the dispensing device 1' is tilted, the outer liquid 6 is temporarily delayed in its flow to the dispensing unit 4 because the outer liquid 6 accumulates in the shoulder portion P of the outer container 2 before proceeding to the dispensing unit 4. To match this delay of the inner liquid reaching the dispensing unit 4, baffle 400 within inner container 3 creates a similar accumulation or damming effect that temporarily delays the flow of inner liquid 7 so that it reaches the dispensing unit 4 simultaneously with outer liquid 6. This ensures that the inner and outer liquids 7, 6 are dispensed simultaneously in predetermined metered ratios. When the dispensing device is orientated at a 90 degree angle to that shown in Fig. 7, the outer liquid is not delayed in shoulder portion P and the baffle 400 is oriented so that it does not significantly restrict the flow of inner liquid 7 within inner container 3 (Fig. 8).

[059] The multi-compartment liquid dispensing device 1 of the present disclosure may be assembled and filled with liquids 6, 7 in various ways. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 1B, some embodiments may be assembled in a manner that includes placing all components of the dispensing device 1 into the outer container 2 through the neck 24 of the outer container 2. In such embodiments, the outer container 2 may be first filled with a sufficient volume of outer liquid 6. Next, the gate member 8 may be attached to the inner container 3, and the inner container 3 may then be filled with an inner liquid 7 through the central aperture 88 of gate member 8.

[060] Once both containers 2, 3 have been filled with liquid, the pouring member 9 may then be secured to the top of the gate member 8 and the inner container 3. The inner container 3, along with the gate member 8 and pouring member 9, may then be inserted into the first pouring orifice 25 of the outer container 2. Subsequently, the cap 51 may be attached to the neck 24 of the outer container 2 to prevent spillage of the liquids 6, 7 from the dispensing device 1 through the dispensing unit 4.

[061] It is understood that the order of assembly and/or filling of the containers 2, 3 may be varied as desired. In addition, or alternatively, the gate member 8 may be preassembled into the inner container 3 at a manufacturing site, thus eliminating the need of attaching the gate member 8 to the inner container 3. Furthermore, in some embodiments, one or both containers 2, 3 may be prefilled in advance of the member process of dispensing device 1.

[062] Additionally, it is understood that the method of assembling the dispensing device 1 may vary depending upon application or desired appearance. For example, in embodiments where the inner container 3 may have outer dimensions greater in size than the first pouring orifice 25 of outer container 2, it may be desirable to fabricate the inner container 3 from a flexible material and insert the inner container 3 into the outer container 2 before filing the inner container 3 with the inner liquid 7. Once the flexible inner container 3 has been inserted within outer container 2, the inner container 3 may be expanded as it is filled with the inner liquid 7 to include a greater volume of inner liquid 7 than that of a rigid inner container 3, having an outer diameter small enough to fit completely with pouring orifice 25 of outer container 2. Alternatively, the inner container 3 may be expanded by injecting pressurized gas or another flowable product suitable for expanding inner container 3 within the outer container 2. In such cases, inner container 3 may be made from a material that is sufficiently resilient to survive this procedure and yet sufficiently rigid to maintain its shape after it has been expanded within outer container 2.

[063] Alternatively, or in addition, the outer container 2 may be provided with a removable lower base to allow the inner container 3 to be inserted through the relatively large bottom of the outer container 2. As yet another alternate method of assembly, it may be desirable in some instances to fabricate inner container 3 within outer container 2 through processes such as, for example, glass blowing.

[064] In use, the interior portion 23 of outer container 2 may be filled with, for example, a primary liquid to be dispensed, and the inner container 3 may be filled with, for example, a secondary liquid to be dispensed with the primary liquid but in smaller quantities. It is understood that the fluid volume of inner container 3 may be the same as or greater than the fluid volume of the outer container 2. For example, in beverage applications, outer container 2 may contain a first liquid 6, such as, for example, vodka, while the inner container 3 may contain a second liquid 7, such as, for example, tomato juice.

[065] In some embodiments, it may be preferred to fill the inner container 3 with a second liquid 7 having a different appearance from the first liquid 6. In such embodiments, if, for example, a colored second liquid 7 is employed with a substantially colorless first liquid 6, it may be easier for the user to see not only that the second liquid 7 is also being dispensed, but also to gauge the relative proportions of the two liquids. Of course, once the liquids have left their respective openings 95, 96 in the pouring member 9, the liquids 6, 7 soon mix together. However, despite mixing, the separations of the liquids 6, 7 may be maintained to present the visible effects of each of the liquids 6, 7.

[066] Other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the disclosure disclosed herein. For example, it is understood that three or more liquids could be separately contained within the dispensing device for simultaneous pouring. In such a configuration, for example, a third container could be located within the inner container 3 and the dispensing unit 4 could include additional openings and channels. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A multi-compartment liquid dispensing device comprising: a rigid outer container defining a first chamber for accommodating a first liquid; an inner container disposed within the outer container and defining a second chamber for accommodating a second liquid; and a dispensing unit coupled to the inner and outer containers, and having a plurality of passages configured to allow for the exiting of the first and second liquids separately and simultaneously from the dispensing device, regardless of the angular orientation of the dispensing device about a central longitudinal axis of the dispensing device.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of passages includes first passages each having an entrance opening, an exit opening, and a channel connecting the entrance and exit to openings of the first passages to control the flow of the first liquid; and second passages each having an entrance opening, an exit opening, and a channel connecting the entrance and exit openings of the second passages to control the flow of the second liquid.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the exit openings of the first and second passages are disposed in a circular arrangement about the central axis.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the exit openings of the first and second passages extend a substantially equal maximum distance from the central axis.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the exit openings of the first and second passages are circular in shape.

6. The device of claim 2, wherein the exit openings of the first passages are a different size than the exit openings of the second passages.

7. The device of claim 2, wherein the exit openings of the first and second passages are configured substantially perpendicular to the central axis.

8. The device of claim 2, wherein the entrance openings of the first passages are located on a side surface of the dispensing unit.

9. The device of claim 2, wherein the entrance openings of the second passages are located at an end surface of the dispensing unit.

10. The device of claim 2, wherein the entrance openings of the first passages are arranged generally parallel to the central axis.

11. The device of claim 9, wherein the entrance openings of the second passages are arranged generally transverse to the central axis.

12. The device of claim 2, wherein the channels of the first and second passages extend generally parallel to the central axis.

13. The device of claim 2, wherein the first passages are configured to provide a first predetermined flow rate of liquid, and the second passages are configured to provide a second predetermined flow rate of liquid different from the first flow rate.

14. The device of claim 1 , wherein the inner container and the dispensing unit are located at least partially within the outer container.

15. The device of claim 14, wherein the dispensing unit is connected to an orifice of the inner container.

16. The device of claim 14, wherein the dispensing unit and the inner container have substantially the same outer diameter.

17. The device of claim 1 , wherein the dispensing unit includes a gate member coupled to a pouring member.

18. The device of claim 1 , wherein the outer container is formed of glass, and the first and second liquids are beverages.

19. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a baffle to regulate the flow of one of the first and second liquids.

20. The device of claim 19, wherein the baffle further includes an opening shaped to restrict the flow of one of the first and second liquids during pouring, in desired angular orientations of the dispensing device.

21. The device of claim 20, wherein the baffle is located within the inner container upstream of the dispensing unit.

22. A multi-compartment liquid dispensing device comprising: a first chamber for accommodating a first liquid; a second chamber for accommodating a second liquid; and a dispensing unit connected to the first and second chambers, and having at least one first chamber exit opening and at least one second chamber exit opening, at least a portion of the first chamber exit opening being disposed at the same radial distance away from a central longitudinal axis of the dispensing device as at least a portion of the second chamber exit opening.

23. The device of claim 22, further including a plurality of first chamber exit openings and a plurality of second chamber exit openings arranged in a circular arrangement about the central axis.

24. The device of claim 22, wherein a radial-most portion of the first chamber exit opening is located at substantially the same radial distance away from the central axis as a radial-most portion of the second chamber exit opening.

25. The device of claim 22, wherein the first chamber exit opening is of a first size, and the second chamber exit opening is of a different size than the first size.

26. The device of claim 22, wherein the first and second liquids include beverages.

27. The device of claim 22, wherein the second chamber and the dispensing unit are sized to fit within the first chamber.

28. The device of claim 22, wherein the first chamber includes a rigid material.

29. The device of claim 22, further comprising a baffle to regulate the flow of one of the first and second liquids.

30. The device of claim 29, wherein the baffle further includes an opening shaped to restrict the flow of one of the first and second liquids during pouring, in desired angular orientations of the dispensing device.

31. The device of claim 30, wherein the baffle is located within the inner container upstream of the dispensing unit.

32. A multi-compartment liquid dispensing device comprising: a first chamber for accommodating a first liquid; a second chamber for accommodating a second liquid; and a dispensing unit disposed within the first chamber and including a plurality of passages configured to assist in the simultaneous dispensing of the first and second liquids, the dispensing unit further including a gate member having a plurality of channels forming a portion of the passages; and a pouring member having a plurality of openings forming a portion of the passages.

33. The device of claim 32, wherein the gate member and the pouring member are connected together so as to align the channels and openings.

34. The device of claim 33, wherein the gate member is connected to an orifice of the second chamber.

35. The device of claim 32, wherein the dispensing unit and the second chamber are at least partially located within the first chamber.

36. The device of claim 32, wherein the dispensing unit and the second chamber have substantially the same outer diameter.

37. The device of claim 32, wherein the gate member includes a central opening extending from a top end surface to a bottom end surface.

38. The device of claim 32, wherein the openings of the pouring member are disposed in a circular arrangement about a central axis of the dispensing device.

39. The device of claim 32, further comprising a baffle to regulate the flow of one of the first and second liquids.

40. The device of claim 39, wherein the baffle further includes an opening shaped to restrict the flow of one of the first and second liquids during pouring, in desired angular orientations of the dispensing device.

41. The device of claim 40, wherein the baffle is located within the inner container upstream of the dispensing unit.

42. A method for dispensing a plurality of liquids from a multicompartment liquid dispensing device comprising: pouring a first liquid from a first compartment; pouring a second liquid from a second compartment simultaneously with the pouring of the first liquid, regardless of an angular orientation of the dispensing device about a central longitudinal axis of the dispensing device, the second compartment being fluidly separated from the first compartment; and maintaining the first and second liquids separated until the first and second liquids have traveled past exit openings of the dispensing device.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein pouring of the first and second liquids includes the first and second liquids traveling through a plurality of liquid passages of a common dispensing unit.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein air travels through a plurality of air passages of the common dispensing unit during pouring.

45. The method of claim 43, wherein the liquid passages and air passages are interchangeable, depending on the angular orientation of the dispensing device about the central axis.

46. The method of claim 42, wherein the first liquid enters through a side surface of the dispensing unit and the second liquid enters through an end surface of the dispensing unit.

47. The method of claim 42, wherein the exit openings are disposed in a circular arrangement about the central axis of the dispensing device.

48. The method of claim 42, wherein exit openings for the first liquid are of a different size than exit openings for the second liquid.

49. The method of claim 42, wherein the first and second liquids are beverages.

50. The method of claim 42, wherein the first and second liquids are poured from the dispensing device at different volumetric ratios.