WO2011153231A1

WO2011153231A1 - Automated mixing and dispensing of powdered beverages

Info

Publication number: WO2011153231A1
Application number: PCT/US2011/038749
Authority: WO
Inventors: Eric S. Heminger
Original assignee: Performance Vendors Llc
Priority date: 2010-06-01
Filing date: 2011-06-01
Publication date: 2011-12-08

Abstract

A vending machine that mixes and dispenses powdered beverages is disclosed. The machine includes a hollow body having an interior, a plurality of hoppers for holding various powdered mixtures, and delivery means for delivering an amount of powdered mixture from a hopper into a drinking container. There is a water system provided inside the body connected to a water source so that water can be combined with the powdered mixture to make a beverage. The container with the beverage therein is removable through an opening connecting the interior with the exterior of the body. The drinking container has a top lip, a bottom and a wall connecting the top and the bottom. The water system includes a water line connecting the water source with an outlet. The water line or the outlet includes a pivot so that water can be directed from the outlet to the bottom of the container and to the wall of the container to mix the powdered mixture. The bottom of the drinking container may include a central protrusion extending upward into the interior of the container. A cap for the top of the container can be press fitted into the protrusion. One or more inwardly and/or outwardly protruding ledges may be formed in the wall of the container to improve mixing of the powder as the water is directed into the container.

Description

AUTOMATED MIXING AND DISPENSING OF POWDERED BEVERAGES

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/350,077, filed June 1, 2010, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The invention relates generally to vending machines for beverages and, more particularly, to automated mixing and dispensing of powdered beverages.

2. Description of the Prior Art

[0003] Preparation of powder-based beverages has often been accomplished manually. The texture and wetability of many nutritional-type powders, however, often result in a lumpy beverage of uneven consistency and taste. While pre-mixed nutritional powder-based drinks have been available in the drink section of some food stores, public acceptance of the pre-mixed product has been less than desirable. Freshly-mixed products are preferred. The difference in taste between the premixed and the fresh product may be related to the chemical

alteration/deterioration of the component proteins over time once they are converted to a water- based mixture.

[0004] Furthermore, pre-mixed products may experience changes in the chemical form and bioavailability of nutrients. The addition of preservatives may be necessary to prevent such changes. Hence, some benefits to the consumer of a beverage preparation machine on the premises of a gym or health club include the ability to prepare a product directly after a workout, which may significantly increase the absorption of the nutrients in the product. [0005] Accordingly, there remains a need for an improved machine for mixing and dispensing powdered beverages. Such a machine should thoroughly mix the beverage so it is even in consistency and taste.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The invention provides a vending machine that mixes and dispenses powdered beverages. The machine includes a hollow body having an interior. A plurality of hoppers are provided for holding various powdered mixtures, and a delivery means is provided for delivering a predetermined amount of powdered mixture from a hopper into a drinking container. A water system inside the body is connected to a water source so that water can be combined with the powdered mixture to make a beverage. The container with the beverage in it is removable through an opening connecting the interior with the exterior of the body. The drinking container has a top lip, a bottom and a wall connecting the top and the bottom. The water system includes a water line connecting the water source with an outlet. The water line or the outlet includes a pivot so that water may be directed from the outlet to the bottom of the container and to the wall of the container.

[0007] In one aspect of the invention, the container may include at least one annular ledge formed in the wall of the container for directing the flow of the water in the container.

[0008] In another aspect, the ledge defines a pair of parabolas opening upward relative to the bottom of the container and a pair of parabolas opening downward relative to the bottom of the container.

[0009] In another aspect, the bottom of the container includes a central protrusion upstanding from the bottom.

[0010] In yet another aspect, an actuator is connected to the water line for moving the outlet and the water line up and down relative to the drinking container.

[0011] In still another aspect, a sealing gasket is provided for sealing the top of the container in watertight fashion when the water is being directed from the outlet into the container. The sealing gasket has a bore extending through it for slidably receiving the water line in watertight fashion, and so that the water line can move freely up and down independently of the gasket. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The details of the invention, both as to its structure and operation, may be obtained by a review of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Fig. 1 is an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of the vending machine of the invention with its door partially open;

[0014] Fig. 2 is an elevated perspective view of an embodiment of the interior of the vending machine of the invention showing the rack and hoppers;

[0015] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of the back of an embodiment of the machine of the invention with the rack and hoppers removed showing the nest and a drinking container positioned in the nest;

[0016] Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing the incremental progression of the drinking container proceeding through an embodiment of the vending machine of the invention;

[0017] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the water system and drinking container carried in the nest positioned beneath the water line guide plate of the invention;

[0018] Fig. 6 is a cut away cross-section view of the nest, water system and drinking container taken along line 6—6 of Fig. 5;

[0019] Fig. 7 is a cut away cross-section view of the nest and drinking container with the water line down, the outlet directing water to the bottom of the container and the sealing gasket seated onto the lip of the container;

[0020] Fig. 8 is a cut away cross-section view of the nest and drinking container with the water line raised, the outlet directing water to the wall of the container and the sealing gasket seated onto the lip of the container;

[0021] Fig. 9 is a cut away cross-section view of the nest and drinking container with the water line up and the sealing gasket above the container;

[0022] Fig. 10 is an elevated front perspective view of an embodiment of the water system of the invention showing the nest and full powdered beverage container in phantom lines; [0023] Fig. 1 1 is a partial cut away perspective view of the front of the vending machine showing the beverage container viewable through the opening;

[0024] Fig. 12 is a top elevated perspective view of an embodiment of the drinking container of the invention; and

[0025] Fig. 13 is a bottom elevated perspective view of an embodiment of the drinking container of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

[0026] The present inventive system can accomplish effective blending of powdered beverages. With reference to Figures 1-2, a vending machine 10 that mixes and dispenses powdered beverages is shown. The machine includes a hollow body 12 constructed of solid rigid material, preferably steel tube frame 13 and sheet material 15 to enclose it. The body includes an interior, which houses hoppers 20 for holding various powdered mixtures. In one embodiment, the hoppers are carried by a carriage 25 so the hopper(s) can move automatically relative to the drinking container. In an embodiment, the carriage can be manually or electronically pulled out in front of the machine to enable the servicer to fill the hoppers with powdered product.

[0027] The hoppers 20 are preferably formed from a light rigid material such as plastic. In one embodiment, each of the hoppers have a lid 21 to preserve and protect the powdered mixtures from the environment. Delivery means, e.g., screw, agitation, paddle wheel, trap door, is provided for delivering powdered mixture from a hopper, directly or indirectly, into a drinking container 30. In some embodiments, the amount of powdered mixture is predetermined. In some embodiments, the delivery means comprises a feed screw or auger that is rotatably mounted at or in the hopper(s) and rotations of the same are counted by a counter, or the time that such mechanical device runs is timed to deliver the powder accordingly.

[0028] Without intending to be limiting, other embodiments comprise a rotating paddle wheel or trap door that moves the powdered mixture into the container 30. In one embodiment, the wheel/door is part of a delivery system to which a conduit with an exit port at one end and an entry port at its other end carries the powder a distance to the opening of the container 30. In one embodiment, the conduit is air tight and the paddle wheel is moved by air pressure from a source. In another embodiments, the hopper 20 is pressurized.

[0029] The rack 40, which may be formed from sheet steel, aluminum, plastic or the like, is supported in the interior behind the hoppers 20. From its top 42 downward, the rack

incrementally converges inward, and the bottom 44 of the rack includes an opening (not shown). A door 45 is mounted beneath the opening in the rack for singly dispensing the drinking containers. The door 45 is formed from a rigid material such as plastic or the like and is operatively connected to an actuator 48, which enables the door to be opened and closed in response to the vendee's selections made at the front 16 of the machine 10.

[0030] In the embodiment illustrated, the door 45 is moved to and fro in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 3. The inventor contemplates other designs such as a trap door, for example, and alternative mechanical and electro-mechanical devices for dispensing the drinking containers 30 from the rack 40. Applicant's device preferably dispenses the containers from the rack one at-a-time by way of the door and nest 50, but other embodiments may be designed within the scope of this example to deliver two or more containers simultaneously to prepare numerous containers as described below. A nest 50 having front 52 and rear 54 casings is connected to the conveying apparatus 60. The casings may be press or heat molded from plastic. In one embodiment, at least one of the casings 52, 54 has a surface shaped complementarily with the shape of the exterior surface of the drinking container 30.

[0031] With reference to all the figures, the water system 70 provides water for combining with the powdered mixture. The water system includes a water line 72 connecting the water source 74 with an outlet 75. The outlet may terminate with a nozzle 77. The water line or the outlet has a pivot 76 so that water may be directed from the outlet to the bottom 32 of the container to the wall 34 of the container, and between the bottom and the wall, to mix the powdered mixture. The water line guide plate 80 has an upstanding sleeve 82 for guiding the water line so that the water line maintains alignment with the long axis 90 of the drinking container when the water line moves up and down and water is directed from the outlet to the bottom of the drinking container or to the wall of the container, as shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0032] The water line guide plate 80 and sleeve 82 are formed from rigid material such as aluminum, alloy, steel or the like, and the sleeve may include an inner sleeve 84 formed from plastic, such as TEFLON. A sealing gasket 90 seals the top of the container in watertight fashion when the water is being directed from the outlet into the container. The gasket is typical of such fluid tight joints and is formed from known material suitable for that purpose. In one

embodiment, the sealing gasket has a bore 92 extending through it for slidably receiving the water line in watertight fashion so that the water line can move freely up and down independently of the gasket.

[0033] An exemplary conveying apparatus like the one shown in Figure 4, moves the container— and preferably the container is held within the nest 50— with the beverage in it from the rear of the machine to the powder collection point 1 10, to the water point 120, and to the opening 200.

[0034] The nest 50 ensures the safe travel of the container along the conveying apparatus 60 and keeps it from tipping over at any point. Prior vending machines such as those designed for coffee, cappuccino, soda or the like do not dispense into a container and thus do not require a nest 50 or similar structure that moves because the cup is filled at a location external of the machine 10.

[0035] The moving parts within the interior of the machine, the actuators, the conveying apparatus, and the delivery means and their related parts for example, may be operatively connected to known pneumatic or hydraulic systems. One embodiment utilizes pneumatic actuators connected by known means to a source of pressure. In that embodiment, solenoid valves are used for operating the door 45, for example. Other systems for accomplishing such mechanical movement and conveying, such as chains, wheels, belts, motors and the like are also well within the bounds and scope of the claims and description of the invention.

[0036] The drinking container 30 includes an open top with a lip 35, a bottom 32 and a wall 34 connecting the top and the bottom. The drinking container may be formed from materials that are typically used for making drinking vessels, such as glass, plastic or the like. In one embodiment, the container is formed from plastic. In one embodiment, the bottom of the container has a central protrusion 31. In one embodiment, a cover 33 or cap for the top of the drinking container is removably secured in the protrusion 31. The cap may be secured using known means such as threads or the like. A press fit is preferred, however, so that the vendee may easily remove the cap from the protrusion and use it on the container.

[0037] In one embodiment, at least one annular ledge 37 is formed in the wall of the drinking container for directing the flow of water in the container when water is directed from the outlet to the bottom of the drinking container or to the wall of the container. Applicant contemplates at the time of this writing many different shapes and configurations formed in the container wall to invigorate the mixing process described below. With reference to the example of figures 12-13, the ledge defines a pair of parabolas opening upward relative to the bottom of the container and a pair of parabolas opening downward relative to the bottom of the container. The embodiment shown includes a circular form as well.

[0038] In use, the vending machine does not require the container to spin. The ledge(s) on the walls of the container, the stepped protrusion on the bottom, and the nozzle height and angle create a cyclone effect that is comparable to a blender. The container is gravity fed to the bottom of the rack and pass through the opening singly via actuated door 45. The container 30 is moved to the upright position and dispensed securely in the nest 50. In one embodiment, the hopper(s) 20 is moved by way of a carriage 25 that carries the hoppers. The hopper containing the vendee's powdered beverage selection is positioned over the container 30 and an amount is delivered, as described above and shown in figure 4. In the embodiment illustrated, powder travels down a chute and into the drinking container.

[0039] Once the powder is dispensed, the container is moved to the location at which the water is added. Without shaking or spinning the container, the outlet 75 with nozzle is lowered into initial position, which is approximately 3 inches above the highest step 38 at the bottom of the container (See FIG. 7). The height of the outlet is controlled by an actuator or other electromechanical means mentioned above.

[0040] Referring to Figs. 6-9, in one embodiment, the nozzle is designed to direct water straight down at the bottom of the container shortly following the discharge of powder into the machine. The stepped protrusion aids in mixing the powder at the bottom of the container when combined with water. The water is dispersed into the container using retractable nozzle 77, as shown in figures 8 and 9. In one embodiment, the outlet 75 with nozzle is equipped with a gasket that is urged with a coil spring 71 to fit securely around the top of the container and stay tight as the nozzle is lowered into and raised out of the container. [0041] After the nozzle has ascended to its highest point it will begin the change of angle. Nozzle 77 is made to move at pivot 76. The movement of nozzle 77 in the embodiment shown is within a single axis. It "swings." In other embodiments the movement is radial relative to the axis of the nozzle 77, that is, the nozzle is rotatable in the x, y and z axes.

[0042] The container 30 is designed to "funnel" the water into correct positioning without the container spinning. Results indicate that without spinning the container the cyclone effect created by the inventive embodiments described, 8-12 additional seconds are needed to optimally mix powdered beverages of a varying particulate size and solubility. This additional time is expected since the new components required to make the inventive system work are more simplistic than intuition would suggest to agitate the container or spin it. After the product is mixed, it is dispensed to the vendee.

[0043] The design uses the bottom of the container to create several vortexes that agitate the mix and reduce clumping. Ledge(s) 36 formed in the wall 34 of the container help to agitate the mix and create a better end product.

[0044] Ledges 36 formed in the container walls 34, the pressure at which the water is released, and, optionally, the spinning motion of the container as it is being filled with liquid phase such as water will cause effective mixing, in many cases, having the same effectiveness as a blender with respect to the dispersion and dissolution of the powder resulting in an increase in the rate of nutrient absorption by the consumer, as well as enhancing the taste and texture of powdered drinks. The ledge(s) 34 create points at which water agitation can take place. As the water level in the container rises it is forced into the recesses created by the ridges, increasing water turbulence and ensuring mixture. The angle at which the recesses preferably protrude are at angles between about 45 and 90 degrees to the surface of the container.

[0045] Small protrusions are designed to go inside and/or outside the lines of the outer wall. While such protrusions may extend solely internally or externally, in some embodiments, the container walls bear a combination of the two types. Both types in close proximity create a high surface area thus, increasing the water agitation and rate of mixing. [0046] The above described initial mixing of the powder has a degree of criticality since this is when clumping will occur if not agitated correctly. In one embodiment, two steps 38, 39 are formed in the protrusion 31 in the bottom of the container. Rounded ninety degree (90°) angles, as shown in Figs. 7-9. In other embodiments, the angle is in the range of forty-five to ninety (45°- 90°). Aiming the water directly at the bottom breaks up the powder by pulling it out of the corners as the water flows, and the water being pulled will lag behind the water being sprayed. In general three areas of eddy turbulence are created, which enhance mixing: one at the top step 38 of the protrusion, one between the top and the first step and one between the bottom step 39 and the bottom of the container. The bottom 32 of the container has the greatest point of agitation because the container wall forces the water back up.

[0047] Not only are the steps 38, 39 and the ledge(s) 36, on the container wall designed to create whirlpools and areas of agitation as the water level rises, but they are all designed to create one large whirlpool that grows as the water level rises with the aid of the angle of the nozzle 77 changing as the nozzle is lifted higher in the container 30. In one embodiment, the nozzle is inserted into the container and begins filling the container about 3 inches above the highest step, as shown in Figure 7. As it fills it will rise approximately 3 inches staying 1-2 inches above the water level, until the water reaches the halfway point and the nozzle changes its angle. The actuator moves the line or outlet at the approximate rate of one half inch per second.

[0048] At its highest point for dispensing water, the nozzle will shift its angle to between 30 and 60 degrees in order to shoot the water into the container walls at a downward angle which, by using the ledge(s) 36, aid in creating a cyclone or whirlpool effect in the water. The design of the protrusions allows the water to be guided down the sides of the walls and wrap around the container in a circular motion. Ledge(s) having a rounded configuration such as circles, parabolas, hyperbolas and the like are preferable; but other geometric figures are contemplated. The desired result is the multiple eddy formation and/or agitation of the mixture. The water is then guided back up the container wall 34 by the design of the ledge(s) 36 in the walls 34 and by the help of the bottom 32 of the container. [0049] This will provide a strong central flow of water both on the horizontal and vertical axis. This will mean that the ledge(s) in the container wall can aid in mixing in two ways (i) create points of agitation by allowing the water to flow in and out as the water level rises and (ii) aid in creating a whirlpool effect by directing water flow in a circular motion. By employing two techniques to aid in mixing, the powder is mixed and dissolved into the water creating a taste and texture that is desired in the industry.

[0050] There are many potential uses for the beverage mixing system described herein that are not limited to the nutritional supplement industry. Various embodiments can use other powders that mix with water that does not need to be heated or carbonated. These products include nutritional supplements (protein powder, creatine, fat burners, vitamins, glutamine, hmb) as well as many other drinks and substances that may or may not be intended as a dietary or nutritional supplement.

[0051] In some embodiments, the machine can accept various means of payment, such as cash, credit cards, and gym membership cards that allow payment in a variety of ways. The new vending machine does not require a reservoir for premixing the powdered beverage or means for flushing to clean such a reservoir. The novel water and mixing system maximizes space for hoppers 20 and the containers 30, allowing for more time between services. Intuitively, the new vending machine requires less time to service as a result. Additionally, prior machines having a separate mixing chamber locate the chamber about eighteen inches higher to leave room for a waste container that receives waste from the mixing chamber. Such a chamber/container becomes dirty, unsightly and a source of germs.

[0052] In one embodiment, the motor 98 is supported above the water system 70 and connected to the outlet 75. The present system can use a 15.5 ounce container to mix the product instead of a large 1-2 gallon container, which also creates more space within the machine. In one embodiment, the interior plumbing of the machine allows for hookups on 3 sides (back, front, left), which allows for more options on the placement of the machine. The machine circuit board can be equipped with a USB port that allows the servicer to hook up to the machine and download sales data and other pertinent information. In general, adequate space remains between the top of the hoppers and the container racks to allow the servicer adequate room to refill the containers by dropping them into the rack.

[0053] In other embodiments of the invention, the container is shaken within the machine after it is filled to aid in mixing and enhance overall quality. In some embodiments of the present invention, it may not need to achieve optimal mixing. In further embodiments comprising shaking, the cap is removed, the container is filled, and the product is recapped tight enough for mixing. In some embodiments, centripetal force created in a spinning motion as well as a central axis pivot point makes spinning the container a much more efficient, cost effective, and practical.

[0054] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, specific embodiments have been described. It should nevertheless be understood that the description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive in character, and that no limitation of the scope of the invention is intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described components, elements, processes, or devices, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein, are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A vending machine that mixes and dispenses powdered beverages, the machine comprises a hollow body having an interior, a plurality of hoppers for holding various powdered mixtures, delivery means for delivering an amount of powdered mixture from a hopper into a drinking container, a water system inside the body connected to a water source so that water can be combined with the powdered mixture to make a beverage, the container with the beverage therein is removable through an opening connecting the interior with the exterior of the body, wherein the drinking container having a top lip, a bottom and a wall connecting the top and the bottom,

wherein the water system includes a water line connecting the water source with an outlet, said water line or said outlet includes a pivot so that water may be directed from the outlet to the bottom of the container and to the wall of the container to mix the powdered mixture.

2. A vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the bottom of the container has a central protrusion extending upward into the interior of the container.

3. A vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the container includes at least one annular ledge formed in the wall of the container for directing the flow of the water in the container.

4. A vending machine according to claim 3, wherein the ledge defines a pair of parabolas opening upward relative to the bottom of the container and a pair of parabolas opening downward relative to the bottom of the container.

5. A vending machine according to claim 1 , wherein the bottom of the container includes a central protrusion upstanding from said bottom of the container.

6. A vending machine according to claim 1, wherein a cover for the top of the drinking container is removably secured in the protrusion in the bottom of the container.

7. A vending machine according to claim 1 , further comprising a sealing gasket for sealing the top of the container in watertight fashion when the water is being directed from the outlet into the container, said sealing gasket having a bore extending therethrough for slidably receiving the water line in watertight fashion, and so that the water line can move freely up and down independently of the gasket.

8. A vending machine according to claim 1, wherein the container includes at least one annular ledge protruding inward from the interior surface of the wall for directing the flow of the water in the container.

9. A vending machine that mixes and dispenses powdered beverages, the machine comprises a hollow body having an interior, a plurality of hoppers for holding various powdered mixtures, delivery means for delivering an amount of powdered mixture from a hopper into a drinking container, a water system inside the body connected to a water source so that water can be combined with the powdered mixture to make a beverage, the container with the beverage therein is removable through an opening connecting the interior with the exterior of the body, the water system comprising:

a water line connecting the water source with an outlet, said water line or outlet includes a pivot so that water may be directed from the outlet to the bottom of the drinking container and to the wall of the container to mix the powdered mixture;

an actuator operatively connected to the water line for moving the outlet and the water line up and down relative to the drinking container;

a sealing gasket for sealing the top of the drinking container in watertight fashion when the water is being directed from the outlet into the container, said sealing gasket having a bore extending therethrough for slidably receiving the water line in watertight fashion, and so that the water line can move freely up and down independently of the gasket; a water line guide plate with an upstanding sleeve for guiding said water line so that the water line maintains alignment with the long axis of the drinking container when the water line moves up and down and water is directed from the outlet to the bottom of the drinking container or to the wall of the container; and

the drinking container includes an open top, a bottom and a wall connecting the top and the bottom, said bottom has a central protrusion, a cover for the top of the drinking container removably secured in the protrusion.

10. A vending machine according to claim 9, wherein at least one annular ledge is formed in the wall of the drinking container for directing the flow of water in the container when water is directed from the outlet to the bottom of the drinking container or to the wall of the container.

1 1. A vending machine according to claim 10, wherein the ledge defines a pair of parabolas opening upward relative to the bottom of the container and a pair of parabolas opening downward relative to the bottom of the container.

12. A vending machine that mixes and dispenses powdered beverages, the machine comprises a hollow body having an interior, a plurality of hoppers for holding various powdered mixtures, and a rack for holding a plurality of drinking containers, delivery means for delivering an amount of powdered mixture from a hopper into a drinking container, a water system inside the body connected to a water source so that water can be combined with the powdered mixture to make a beverage, a conveying apparatus within the interior for conveying a drinking container from the rack, to a hopper, and to said water system, the container with the beverage therein is removable through an opening connecting the interior with the exterior of the body,

the conveying apparatus comprising:

a door mounted beneath the rack for singly dispensing the containers; a drinking container nest for releasably securing a drinking container in an upright position for movement between said rack and said opening, said nest having a rear shell casing and a front shell casing; and the water system comprising:

a water line connecting the water source with an outlet, said water line or outlet includes a pivot so that water may be directed from the outlet to the bottom of the drinking container and to the wall of the container to mix the powdered mixture, and at least one annular ledge is formed in the wall of the drinking container for directing the flow of water in the container when water is directed from the outlet to the bottom of the drinking container or to the wall of the container.

13. A vending machine according to claim 12, wherein a water line connects the water source with an outlet, said water line or outlet includes a pivot so that water may be directed from the outlet to the bottom of the drinking container and to the wall of the container.

14. A vending machine according to claim 13, wherein an actuator is operatively connected to the water line for moving the outlet and the water line up and down relative to the drinking container.

15. A vending machine according to claim 12, wherein the drinking container includes an open top, a bottom and a wall connecting the top and the bottom, said bottom has a central protrusion, a cover for the top of the drinking container removably secured in the protrusion.

16. A vending machine according to claim 13, wherein the drinking container includes an open top, a bottom and a wall connecting the top and the bottom, said bottom has a central protrusion, a cover for the top of the drinking container removably secured in the protrusion.

17. A vending machine according to claim 12, wherein the ledge defines a pair of parabolas opening upward relative to the bottom of the container and a pair of parabolas opening downward relative to the bottom of the container.

18. A vending machine according to claim 15, wherein the ledge defines a pair of parabolas opening upward relative to the bottom of the container and a pair of parabolas opening downward relative to the bottom of the container.