WO2012017259A1

WO2012017259A1 - Fluid container assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2012017259A1
Application number: PCT/IB2010/001907
Authority: WO
Inventors: Marcel Miller Tetahi; Michael Bruce Newcomb
Original assignee: Marcel Miller Tetahi; Michael Bruce Newcomb
Priority date: 2010-08-02
Filing date: 2010-08-02
Publication date: 2012-02-09

Abstract

The present application is directed to a bottle assembly comprising (a) a first fluid container having a fluid outlet; and (b) a second fluid container having a fluid outlet. The second fluid container is attachable to the first fluid container and the first fluid container has a recessed nasal interface disposed about its fluid outlet. The first fluid container is operationally configured to maintain the bottle assembly in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

Description

TITLE

FLUID CONTAINER ASSEMBLY

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Not applicable. STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED

RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.

FIELD OF THE APPLICATION

[0003] The application relates generally to bottles for dispensing fluids. BACKGROUND

[0004] In recent years, the use of portable beverage containers has become commonplace. For example, commercially available bottled water, sports drinks, soft drinks, and the like are frequently provided in easy to carry bottle type dispensers constructed from resilient materials such as plastic. Likewise, oxygen is also being offered commercially in the form of canisters providing individuals access to bursts of oxygen, often marketed as "pure oxygen."

[0005] Commercially, there is a need for a bottle or similar container that dispenses both liquids and gases and that is also carryable. There is also a need for bottle or similar container effective to maximize retail shelf space by providing a means for balancing the bottle in an upright manner regardless of its shape and/or its weight distribution and/or its contents. There is also a need for a bottle that may be easily recycled or degraded. SUMMARY

[0006] The present application is directed to a bottle assembly comprising (a) a first fluid container having a fluid outlet; and (b) a second fluid container having a fluid outlet. The second fluid container is attachable to the first fluid container and the first fluid container has a recessed nasal interface disposed about its fluid outlet. The first fluid container is operationally configured to maintain the bottle assembly in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

[0007] The present application is also directed to a bottle assembly comprising (a) a first fluid container for storing a pressurized consumable gas and having a recessed outlet for dispensing the gas; and (b) a second fluid container for storing a consumable liquid, the second fluid container having a fluid outlet and being attachable to the first fluid container. The first and second fluid containers are constructed from one or more polymeric materials; the distal end of the first fluid container is effective to maintain the bottle assembly in an upright position atop a substantially level surface; and the distal end of the first fluid container has an outer diameter substantially similar to the outer diameter of the second fluid container.

[0008] The present application is also directed to a bottle assembly comprising (a) a first fluid container having a recessed fluid outlet; and (b) a second fluid container having a fluid outlet. The containers are operationally configured to attach to one another in a manner effective to provide a bottle assembly having fluid outlets at opposing ends of the assembled bottle. The recessed fluid outlet of the first fluid container is operationally configured to maintain the bottle assembly in an upright position atop a substantially level surface. The first container is constructed from a malleable metal effective for storing a pressurized consumable fluid. The second container is constructed from a degradable plastic effective for storing a consumable fluid and the first and second containers comprise substantially similar outer diameters.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0009] Figure 1 is an elevated side view of an embodiment of the bottle assembly.

[0010] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the bottle assembly.

[0011] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the distal end of the first container of the bottle assembly including a recessed fluid outlet and an activation means in the form of a push button.

[0012] Figure 4 is an elevated side view of an embodiment of the bottle assembly.

[0013] Figure 5 is an elevated side view of an embodiment of the bottle assembly.

[0014] Figure 6 is an elevated side view of an embodiment of the bottle assembly.

[0015] Figure 7 is an elevated side view of an embodiment of the bottle assembly, the broken lines representing a packaging label disposed about the assembled bottle.

[0016] Figure 8 is an exploded side view of the bottle assembly of Figure 7. [0017] Figure 9 is an elevated side view of an embodiment of the bottle assembly, the broken lines representing a packaging label disposed about the assembled bottle.

[0018] Figure 10 is an exploded side view of the bottle assembly of Figure 9.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0019] It has been discovered that a fluid container such as a bottle may be assembled to hold and dispense fluids of varying densities. It has also been discovered that the fluid container may be operationally configured to maintain the fluid container in an upright position atop a substantially level surface regardless of the actual storage orientation of the varying fluids and/or the weight distribution of the fluid container and/or its contents. It has further been discovered that the fluid container may be constructed from particular recyclable materials as may be determined by the particular fluids stored therein. Heretofore, such a desirable achievement has not been considered possible, and accordingly, the system and method of this application measure up to the dignity of patentability and therefore represent a patentable concept.

[0020] Before describing the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the present system and method are not limited to particular embodiments. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase "treated water" refers to potable water that has been treated with processes such as distillation, deionization, reverse osmosis, and combinations thereof. As used herein the term oxygen or 0₂ includes air and oxygen enriched air as well as purified 0₂. Herein "consumable fluid" refers to fluids that may be ingested or inhaled by consumers. The phrase "substantially level surface" refers to a substantially planar surface or support oriented closer to perpendicular than to parallel in relation to the vector of gravity. The term "carryable" as it relates to a fluid container refers to a portable fluid container that carried or worn by a person via a strap and the like. The phrases "container assembly" and "bottle assembly" may be used interchangeably.

[0021] In one aspect, the application provides a consumer friendly fluid container for storing a consumable gas or inhalable gas at one end and a consumable fluid at the other end.

[0022] In another aspect, the application provides a store bought fluid container for dispensing a beverage at one end and a therapeutic gas at the other end.

[0023] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container comprising a first fluid reservoir having an outlet; and a second fluid reservoir having an outlet; wherein the outlet of the first fluid reservoir is operationally configured to maintain the container in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

[0024] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container comprising a first fluid compartment for dispensing a pressurized fluid; and a second fluid compartment for dispensing a fluid, the second fluid compartment being releasably connected to the first fluid compartment; the first fluid compartment being operationally configured to maintain the container in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

[0025] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container comprising a first fluid compartment having an outlet; and a second fluid compartment having an outlet; wherein the outlet of the first fluid compartment includes a nasal interface operationally configured to deliver a gas to the nasal airway of a user; and wherein the outlet of the first fluid compartment is operationally configured to maintain the container in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

[0026] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container comprising a first fluid compartment for dispensing a fluid; a second fluid compartment for dispensing a fluid, the second fluid compartment being releasably attached to the first fluid compartment; a nasal mask fluidly connected to the first fluid compartment; wherein the nasal mask is operationally configured to maintain the container in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

[0027] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container wherein the second fluid compartment is at a higher elevation than the first compartment when the container is oriented in an upright position.

[0028] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container wherein the first fluid compartment is operationally configured to house a fluid having a density less than the fluid to be housed in the second fluid compartment.

[0029] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container operationally configured to store a consumable pressurized gas.

[0030] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container operationally configured to store a therapeutic pressurized gas.

[0031] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container operationally configured to (1 ) store a consumable gas in a reservoir at one end of the container, and (2) store a consumable liquid in a reservoir at the opposite end of the container, the reservoirs being releasably attachable.

[0032] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container operationally configured to store a consumable gas in a reservoir at one end of the container and a consumable liquid in a reservoir at the opposite end of the container, the reservoirs being operationally configured to be releasably attached, wherein the gas reservoir is constructed from metal and the fluid reservoir is constructed from plastic.

[0033] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container for storing a consumable gas in a reservoir at one end of the container and a consumable liquid in a reservoir at the opposite end of the container, the reservoirs being releasably attachable, wherein the gas reservoir is constructed from malleable metal and the fluid reservoir is constructed from degradable plastic.

[0034] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container including a separate non-fluid containing base, the base being operationally configured to maintain the container in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

[0035] In another aspect, the application provides a standable bottle for storing a gas and a fluid, the bottle comprising (1) a container for storing the gas, and (2) a container for storing the fluid, the containers being releasably attachable; wherein the gas storing container is operationally configured to maintain the bottle in a standing position atop a substantially level surface.

[0036] In another aspect, the application provides a standable bottle for storing at least a gas and a fluid, the bottle comprising a container for storing and dispensing the gas, and a container for storing and dispensing the fluid; wherein the gas storing container forms the bottle's base for maintaining the bottle in a standing position atop a substantially level surface.

[0037] In another aspect, the application provides a carryable fluid container comprising (a) a first fluid compartment at one end of the container, the first compartment being operationally configured to dispense a fluid there from, the fluid having a first density; and (b) a second fluid compartment at the opposite end of the container, the second compartment being operationally configured to dispense a fluid there from, the fluid of the second fluid compartment having a density greater than the fluid of the first fluid compartment; the first compartment being operationally configured to maintain the fluid container in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

[0038] In another aspect, the application provides a standable fluid container comprising first and second detachable fluid compartments, each compartment defined by an inner surface, an outer surface, and a fluid outlet; wherein the first and second fluid compartments have substantially similar outer diameters; and wherein the outlet of the first fluid compartment is operationally configured to maintain the container in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

[0039] In another aspect, the application provides an article for storing consumable fluid, the article having a first container operationally configured to dispense a fluid, and a second container operationally configured to dispense a fluid, the second container being securable to the first container; the first container being operationally configured to maintain the article in an upright position atop a substantially level surface. [0040] In another aspect, the application provides a bottle for carrying a gas and a liquid, the bottle comprising (1 ) a compartment for storing the gas, the compartment having a sealable gas outlet, (2) a compartment for storing the liquid, the compartment having a sealable liquid outlet; and (3) a means for connecting the compartments during operation of the bottle; whereby the gas outlet is operationally configured to support the bottle in an upright position upon a substantially level surface.

[0041] In another aspect, the application provides an article for storing consumable fluid including first and second containers for dispensing fluid, the second container being releasably attachable to the first container.

[0042] In another aspect, the application provides an article for storing fluid comprising, the article having a first container providing a fluid outlet at one end of the article and a second container releasably attachable to the first container, the second container providing a fluid outlet at an opposite end of the article; wherein the first container is constructed from a malleable metal effective for storing a pressurized gas; wherein the second container is constructed from a degradable plastic; and wherein each container is operationally configured to dispense fluid independent of the other container.

[0043] In another aspect, the application provides an article for storing fluid, the article having a first container including a fluid outlet at one end of the article and a second container releasably attachable to the first container, the second container including a fluid outlet at an opposite end of the article; wherein the first container is constructed from a malleable metal effective for storing a pressurized gas; wherein the second container is constructed from a degradable plastic; and wherein each container is operationally configured to dispense fluid independent of the other container.

[0044] In another aspect, the application provides a fluid container comprising (a) a first container for dispensing a gas, and (b) a second container for dispensing a gas and threadedly connected to the first container; wherein the first container is constructed from a metal having a density up to about 2.7g/cm³; and wherein the second container is constructed from (a) a polymeric material; and (b) a pro-degradant catalyst in an amount from about 0.5 % to about 5.0 % by weight of the container.

[0045] In another aspect, the application provides a fluid container assembly having (a) a first container for dispensing a gas, (b) a second container for dispensing a fluid and threadedly connected to the first container; (c) a base attached to the first container and effective to maintain the fluid container in an upright position atop a substantially level surface regardless of the type or quantity of fluid stored in either container.

[0046] In another aspect, the application provides a fluid container having (a) a first container for dispensing a gas, (b) a second container for dispensing a fluid, the first container being constructed from polyethylene terephthalate ("PET") plastic.

[0047] In another aspect, the application provides a bottle produced from PET plastic using the blow molding process as known to persons of ordinary skill in the art of plastic bottle making.

[0048] In another aspect, the application provides a fluid container having (a) a first container for dispensing a fluid, (b) a second container for dispensing a fluid, the first container being constructed from PET plastic having a crenellated base operationally configured to provide both strength to the base and the ability to stand the container upright. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, a crenellated base may also be described as a base including a radial corrugation, or a base having recessed portions, or as having indentations forming a petaloid and made via the blow molding process as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art.

[0049] In another aspect, the application provides a fluid container having (a) a first container for dispensing a gas, (b) a second container for dispensing a fluid, the first container being constructed from PET plastic having a base with an inward curved bottom also commonly referred to as a champagne base providing strength to the base and the ability to stand the container upright.

[0050] In another aspect, the application provides a fluid container operationally configured to rest lengthwise upon a surface or support.

[0051] In another aspect, the application provides a fluid container having first and second containers for dispensing fluids, the containers being constructed from PET plastic wherein at least one of the containers is operationally configured to hold a pressure of about 90.0 psi or less.

[0052] In another aspect, the application provides the application provides a fluid container having first and second containers for dispensing fluids, the containers being constructed from PET plastic and operationally configured to be securely or permanently attached together.

[0053] In another aspect, the application provides a fluid bottle having first and second containers for dispensing fluids, the containers being assembled together in a manner effective to form a substantially unobstructed outer surface of the bottle. DISCUSSION OF THE DEVICE AND METHOD

[0054] To better understand the novelty of the invention and methods of use thereof, reference is hereafter made to the accompanying drawings. With reference now to FIG. 1 , a simplified embodiment of the bottle assembly 10 is provided. As shown, a suitable bottle assembly 10 includes a first container 12 for dispensing a fluid and a second container 14 for dispensing a fluid. Fluid housed within the first container 12 is dispensed through outlet 16. Fluid housed within the second container 14 is dispensed through outlet 18. The surface configuration of the first container 12 suitably provides a nasal interface 20 in the form of a cavity or depressed region at outlet 16. The containers 12, 14 may be permanently attached during assembly or releasably attachable as desired.

[0055] The nasal interface 20 along the outer surface of the first container 12 is operationally configured to receive at least part of an individual's nose or nostril(s) for inhaling the fluid released through outlet 16. In another embodiment, the outlet 16 may include one or more tubular members to be inserted into a user's nostrils, or mouth for consuming the fluid stored within first container 12. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the nasal interface 20 is operationally configured to minimize wasted product dispensed from the outlet 16 by directing substantially all of the dispensed fluid product to the nasal passages of the user.

[0056] Turning to FIG. 2, the bottle assembly 10 suitably includes a sealing member 22 operationally configured to seal the outlet 18 of the second container 14. A suitable sealing member 22 may include a conventional cap such as a threaded screw cap, a snap-on cap, a child proof type safety cap design having a tamper proof means, or a tethered or hinged lift off cap having a closed end and an open end for attaching to the second container 14. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the sealing member 22 includes an internally threaded screw cap for mating to a threaded outlet 18 as depicted in the simplified illustration of FIG. 2.

[0057] As stated above, the containers 12, 14 may be permanently attached during assembly or releasably attachable as desired. In one embodiment of permanent attachment the containers 12, 14 may be adhered or otherwise glued together, a food grade adhesive or glue being preferred but not necessarily required. In another embodiment, the containers 12, 14 may be snapped together for either permanent or releasable attachment. In yet another embodiment, the containers 12, 14 may include tamper evident rim portions (similar to medicinal pill bottles) that may be joined by pressing the containers 12, 14 toward one another and turning the containers in opposite directions. In still another embodiment, the containers 12, 14 may include threaded connections as shown in FIG. 2. It is also contemplated that the containers 12, 14 may include exclusive mating surfaces for the bottle assembly 10 with corresponding male and female type mating surfaces there between.

[0058] In operation, the first container 12 may be configured to store and dispense either a gas or a liquid. In one particularly advantageous embodiment, the first container 12 is operationally configured to store and dispense a therapeutic gas under pressure, the gas serving in a combined role as a propellant and therapeutic agent. In another particularly advantageous embodiment, the first container 12 is operationally configured to store and dispense a therapeutic gas/drug mixture under pressure wherein the drug for delivery is mixed directly with the therapeutic gas propellant in the first container 12. Suitable therapeutic gases include oxygen, medical grade oxygen, air or other oxygen containing gas mixtures of therapeutic value, and combinations thereof. Other suitable therapeutic gases include, but are not necessarily limited to compressed air, carbon dioxide, helium, nitrogen, nitrous oxide, nitric oxide, and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the following liquid additives may be employed with one or more of the above listed gases as propellants: herbs, nicotine, fragrance, pain medication, anesthetic, respiratory drugs, and combinations thereof.

[0059] In one embodiment, the first container 12 may include a dispensing system for delivering pressurized fluid out from the container's reservoir through outlet 16. A suitable dispensing system may include a known valve configuration such as those incorporating a resilient means like a spring that provides for a normally closed valve operation. As depicted in FIG. 3, the distal end of the first container 12 may comprise an activation means in the form of a depress button or push button 26 for activating the dispensing system. As understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art, depressing the button 26 opens a valve (not shown) within the reservoir of the first container 12 allowing stored product under pressure to be emitted through the outlet 16. In an embodiment of the first container 12 for storing and dispensing liquid under pressure, the dispensing system 24 suitably includes an aerosol spray dispensing system that creates a mist of the liquid when discharged from the first container 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the push button 26 may be located on bottom most side of the bottle assembly 10. In this embodiment, the push button 26 is operationally configured in a manner effective for the bottle assembly 10 to be stood upright upon a substantially level surface. [0060] With reference to FIG. 4, it is also contemplated that the bottle assembly 10 may include a base 28 with a nasal interface 20 and push button 26 operationally configured to attach to the distal end of the first container 12. In this embodiment, the base 28 is suitably operationally configured to maintain the bottle assembly 10 in an upright or standing position atop a substantially level surface. In addition, the base 28 may be permanently or releasably attached to the first container 12 in a manner similar to the attachment means between the first and second containers 12 and 14.

[0061] For operational purposes, the base 28 is in fluid communication with the first container 12 in a manner effective for fluid to be directed from the first container's reservoir through the outlet 16 of base 28. In one embodiment, the base 28 includes a depress button 26 configuration as described above. In another embodiment, the entire base 28 may be depressed toward the first container 12 in a manner effective to open a valve for dispensing product from the first container 12 through a fluid communication means to outlet 16. For example, the base 28 may be configured to attach to a stem extending from the first container 12 - similar to known spray canister configurations.

[0062] As further depicted in FIG. 4, the bottle assembly 10 may also comprise a connector ring 30 operationally configured to interconnect the first and second containers 12, 14 according to the mating profile of each container 12 and 14. In one embodiment, a connector ring 30 may be employed to add length to the bottle assembly 10. In another embodiment, a connector ring 30 may be employed to interconnect two otherwise unmatable containers 12, 14. In this embodiment, the connector ring 30 is operationally configured to mate with each of the distinct mating profiles of the first and second containers 12 and 14. It is also contemplated that a second connector ring may be employed to interconnect the first container 12 and the base 28.

[0063] With reference again to FIG. 1 , the second container 14 may include a canister type reservoir for storing and dispensing a liquid fluid. Powders and solid substances including food items and personal items may also be stored in the second container 14. Even though the second container is not necessarily limited to housing any particular powders Examples of powders

[0064] In one embodiment, the second container 14 may be employed for storing therapeutic liquids. As such, it is contemplated that the bottle assembly 10 may be provided in a sterilized condition. Examples of suitable therapeutic liquids include, but are not necessarily limited to water, analgesics, antibiotics, disenfectants, antiseptics, oxidizers, herbal oils, and combinations thereof. Particular examples include hydrogen peroxide (H₂0₂), iodine, isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol), ethyl alcohol (ethanol), ammonia, iodine, and sodium chloride based washes. In another embodiment, the second container 14 may include a medical grade container for housing the above mentioned therapeutic fluids or other medicinal fluids such as insulin. It is also contemplated that one or more therapeutic creams or gels may be stored in the second container 14.

[0065] In another embodiment, the fluid housed within containers 14 may include a potable liquid. Suitable potable liquids include, but are not necessarily limited to water including, but not necessarily limited to spring water, mineral water, tap water and treated water, fruit juices, vegetable juices, carbonated beverages, beverages based on tea, coffee, or herbs, dairy-based beverages, beverages based on grain such as wheat or rice, soy-based beverages, beer, wine, spirits, and liquors. In one particularly advantageous embodiment, the potable liquid may include a treated water product. In another particularly advantage embodiment, the potable liquid may include artesian mineral water. In an embodiment where the bottle assembly 10 is sold commercially, the potable liquid may include spring water collected from a particular spring source. It is also contemplated that the present bottle assembly 10 may be bottled and sold near a particular spring water source. For example, the second container 14 may be filled with a spring water product at a source of a spring and shipped for further bottle assembly elsewhere or sold separately as a replacement container for a previously purchased bottle assembly 10.

[0066] It is also contemplated that the bottle assembly 10 may be presented as a liquid/gas combination intended for a particular activity or situation. For example, in high altitude situations such as skiing or hiking, the first container 12 may comprise pure oxygen and the second container 14 may comprise treated potable water. In another embodiment, the second container 14 may comprise an energy drink or sports related drink as known to persons in the art. In still another embodiment, the first and second containers 12, 14 may store and dispense liquids and gases having synergistic effects when consumed together.

[0067] Although the first container 12 may be constructed from a variety of materials effective for storing pressurized fluid therein, suitable materials include lightweight materials that may be formed in various shapes and designs while still being effective to maintain the bottle assembly 10 in an upright position atop a substantially level surface. Apposite first container 12 materials include, but are not necessarily limited to metals and polymeric materials. Suitable metals include, but are not necessarily limited to metals having a density up to about 8.0 g/cm³. Suitable metals include, but are not necessarily limited to aluminum, tin, stainless steel, and combinations thereof. In one particularly advantageous embodiment, a first container 12 constructed from aluminum has a density of about 2.7g/cm³.

[0068] Suitable polymeric materials include, but are not necessarily limited to polyethylene terephthalate ("PET") plastics, polymerized lactic acid ("PLA") plastics, poly(dihydroferulic acid) plastics, and combinations thereof. An empty bottle assembly 10 operationally configured to dispense consumable fluids suitably has a total weight ranging from about 20.0 g (about 0.71 ounces) to about 100 g (about 3.53 ounces). In an embodiment including a first container 12 constructed from aluminum and a second container 14 constructed from PET plastic, the first container 12 suitably weighs from about 5.0 g to about 20.0 g (from about 0.18 ounces to about 0.71 ounces) and the second container 14 suitably weighs up to about 15.0 g (about 0.53 ounces). In an embodiment including a first container 12 and second container 14 each constructed from PET plastic, the first container 12 suitably weighs about 15.0 g (about 0.53 ounces) and the second container 14 suitably weighs about 15.0 g (about 0.53 ounces) - see FIGS. 7-10. An off the shelf bottle assembly 10 storing at full capacity both potable water and breathable oxygen suitably has a weight of about 425 g or less (about 14.99 ounces or less), wherein approximately 80.0 percent of the total weight of the bottle assembly is made up of the liquid stored in the second container 14. For exemplary purposes and with reference to the embodiment of FIG. 4, a suitable off the shelf bottle assembly 10 has a height to width ratio of about 4:1 , wherein at least about 90.0 percent or more of the bottle assembly's weight is made up of the liquid supplied in the second container 14.

[0069] Based on the above described weight parameters, a suitable first container 12 may be pressurized up to about 896 318.45 Pa (about 130 psi). In one advantageous commercial embodiment for dispensing breathable oxygen, including a first container 12 constructed from PET, the first container may be pressurized up to about 620528 Pa (about 90 psi), the first container 12 being operationally configured to provide about twenty separate two-second bursts of breathable oxygen.

[0070] A suitable second container 14 may be constructed from a variety of materials effective for storing fluid therein while also being effective to maintain the bottle assembly 10 in an upright or standing position atop a substantially level surface. Apposite second container 14 materials include, but are not necessarily limited to metals and polymeric materials. Suitable polymeric materials include, but are not necessarily limited to PET, high-density polyethylene plastic, polycarbonate plastic, and combinations thereof. In one particularly advantageous embodiment, the. second container 14 may be constructed from (a) a polymeric material; and (b) a pro-degradant catalyst in an amount from about 0.5 % to about 5.0 % by weight of the second container 14. A pro-degradant catalyst containing second container 14 is suitable for storing beverages of temperatures up to about 230 °F (about 110 °C).

[0071] For purposes of this application, suitable pro-degradant catalysts include one or more oxy-degradable additives effective for degrading polymeric materials at an accelerated rate. Suitable degradable additives include transition metal salts. Suitable transition metal salts include manganese, iron, cobalt and nickel. [0072] As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the bottle assembly 10 may include first and second containers 12, 14 having substantially similar outer diameters. In an embodiment including an additional base 28, the first and second containers 12, 14 and the base 28 of the bottle assembly 10 may have substantially similar outer diameters. With reference to FIG. 4, the second container 14 may have a tapered outer surface, and the base 28, first container 12 and connector ring 30 may be cylindrical in form with substantially similar outer diameters. In other embodiments, the first container 12, the second container 14, base 28, connector ring 30, and sealing member 22 may have forms other than the cylindrical or tapered surface as illustrated herein.

[0073] With reference to FIG. 5, the bottle assembly 10 may comprise a base 28 tapering outward toward its distal end effectively assisting in balancing or otherwise maintaining the bottle assembly 10 in a standing or upright position atop a substantially level surface. In still another embodiment as shown in FIG. 6, the bottle assembly 10 may comprise a first container 12 tapering outward toward a cylindrical type base 28.

[0074] Although the bottle assembly 10 may be built to scale, in an embodiment of the bottle assembly 10 operationally configured to dispense consumable fluids the bottle assembly 10 is suitably sized for ease of packing, shipping and shelving for retail purposes. Suitably, the minimum dimensions of the bottle assembly 10 for dispensing consumable fluids include a length (or height when the bottle assembly is oriented in an upright position) of about 12.0 cm (about 4.72 inches) and an outer diameter or width of at least about 6.0 cm (about 2.36 inches). Maximum dimensions of the bottle assembly 10 include a length up to about 33.0 cm (about 13.0 inches), and an outer diameter or width up to about 10.0 cm (about 3.94 inches). With regard to PET containers, the minimum outer diameter or width of containers 12 or 14 is about 6.35 cm (about 2.5 inches) for PET containers.

[0075] A suitable bottle assembly 10 operationally configured to dispense consumable fluids may include characteristics as listed in Tables 1 - 4.

[0076] TABLE 1

Bottle Assembly of Figure 1 :

(1 ) Outer diameter of First Container 12 about 6.0 cm (about 2. 36 inches)

(2) Outer diameter of Second Container 14 about 6.0 cm (about 2.36 inches)

(3) Outer diameter of Sealing Member 22 about 60 mm (about 2 36 inches)

(4) Length of First Container 12 about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches)

(5) Length of Second Container 14 about 60 mm (about 2 36 inches)

(6) Length of Sealing Member 22 about 60 mm (about 2 36 inches)

(7) Maximum width of Nasal Interface 20 about 60 mm (about 2 36 inches)

(8) Length of Nasal Interface 20 about 60 mm (about 2 36 inches)

(9) Depth of Nasal Interface 20 about 60 mm (about 2 36 inches) (at Outlet 16)

(10) Maximum depth of Nasal Interface 20 about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches)

[0077] TABLE 2

Bottle Assembly of Figure 4:

(1) Outer diameter of First Container 12 about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches)

(2) Outer diameter of Second Container 14 about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) (at attachment edge to Connector Ring 30)

(3) Outer diameter of Second Container 14 about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) (at attachment edge to Sealing Member 22)

(4) Outer diameter of Sealing Member 22 about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) (near open end)

(5) Outer diameter of Sealing Member 22 about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) (near closed end)

(6) Outer diameter of Base 28 about 6.0 cm (about 2.36 inches)

(7) Outer diameter of Connector Ring 30 about 6.0 cm (about 2.36 inches)

(8) Length of First Container 12 about 5.50 cm (about 2.2 inches)

(9) Length of Second Container 14 about 3.0 cm (about 5.12 inches)

(10) Length of Sealing Member 22 about 3.80 cm (about 1.5 inches) (11) Length of Base 28 - about 4.50 cm (about 1.77 inches)

(12) Length of Connector Ring 30 - about 1.50 cm (about 0.59 inches)

(13) Maximum width of Nasal Interface 20 - about 4.50 cm (about 1.77 inches)

(14) Length of Nasal Interface 20 - about 2.50 cm (about 0.98 inches)

(15) Depth of Nasal Interface 20 - about 2.50 cm (about 0.98 inches) (at Outlet 16)

(16) Maximum depth of Nasal Interface 20 - about 3.0 cm (about 1.18 inches)

Γ00781 TABLE 3

Bottle Assembly of Figure 5:

(1) Outer diameter of First Container 12 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches)

(2) Outer diameter of Second Container 14 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) (at attachment edge to Connector Ring 30)

(3) Outer diameter of Second Container 14 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) (at attachment edge to Sealing Member 22)

(4) Outer diameter of Sealing Member 22 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) (near open end)

(5) Outer diameter of Sealing Member 22 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) (near closed end)

(6) Outer diameter of Base 28 - about 8.0 cm (about 3.15 inches) (at distal end)

(7) Outer diameter of Base 28 - about 6.0 cm (about 2.36 inches)

(at attachment edge to First Container 12)

(8) Outer diameter of Connector Ring 30 - about 6.0 cm (about 2.36 inches)

(9) Length of First Container 12 - about 5.50 cm (about 2.2 inches)

(10) Length of Second Container 14 - about 13.0 cm (about 5.12 inches)

(11) Length of Sealing Member 22 - about 3.80 cm (about 1.5 inches)

(12) Length of Base 28 - about 5.0 cm (about 1.97 inches)

(13) Length of Connector Ring 30 - about 1.50 cm (about 0.59 inches)

(14) Maximum width of Nasal Interface 20 - about 5.0 cm (about 1.97 inches)

(15) Length of Nasal Interface 20 - about 3.0 cm (about 1.18 inches)

(16) Depth of Nasal Interface 20 - about 3.50 cm (about 1.38 inches) (at Outlet 16)

(17) Maximum depth of Nasal Interface 20 - about 4.0 cm (about 1.57 inches)

Γ00791 TABLE 4

Bottle Assembly of Figure 6:

(1) Outer diameter of First Container 12 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) [at attachment edge to Base 28)

[2) Outer diameter of First Container 12 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) [at attachment edge to Connector Ring 30)

[3) Outer diameter of Second Container 14 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) [at attachment edge to Connector Ring 30)

[4) Outer diameter of Second Container 14 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) [at attachment edge to Sealing Member 22)

[5) Outer diameter of Sealing Member 22 - about 60 mm (about 2.36 inches) [near open end)

[6) Outer diameter of Sealing Member 22 - about 5.0 cm (about 1.97 inches) [near closed end)

[7) Outer diameter of Base 28 about 7.50 cm (about 2.95 inches)

[8) Outer diameter of Connector Ring 30 about 6.0 cm (about 2.36 inches)

[9) Length of First Container 12 about 6.0 cm (about 2.36 inches)

[10) Length of Second Container 14 about 13.0 cm (about 5.12 inches)

[11 ) Length of Sealing Member 22 about 4.0 cm (about 1.57 inches)

[12) Length of Base 28 about 4.50 cm (about 1.77 inches)

[13) Length of Connector Ring 30 about 1.50 cm (about 0.59 inches)

[14) Maximum width of Nasal Interface 20 about 5.0 cm (about 1.97 inches)

[15) Length of Nasal Interface 20 about 3.0 cm (about 1 .18 inches)

[16) Depth of Nasal Interface 20 about 3.50 cm (about 1.38 inches) [at Outlet 16)

[17) Maximum depth of Nasal Interface 20 - about 3.75 cm (about 1.48 inches)

[0080] In operation, an individual may ingest a liquid stored in the second container 14 and inhale a gas stored in the first container 12. As typical to most beverage containers, the sealing member 22 may be removed from the second container 14 to dispense liquid through the outlet 18. To inhale in the gas emitted from the first container 12, a user suitably orients the first container 12 toward his/her face as depicted in FIG. 3. The user places his/her nose within the nasal interface 20 and presses down on the button 26 to release the gas through the outlet 16 in a manner effective for the gas to be inhaled into the user's nasal passages.

[0081] Once empty, the bottle assembly 10 may be (1 ) discarded; (2) the second container 14 may be refilled with a liquid for further use; (3) the first container 12 may be replaced by a replacement container to be assembled to the existing second container 14; (4) the first and second containers 12, 14 may be recycled in whole according to the similar materials of construction of each; or (5) the bottle assembly 10 may be disassembled whereby the first container 12 and second container 14 may be disposed of according to their separate materials of construction. In an embodiment wherein the containers 12, 14 are constructed from plastic with a pro-degradant additive, the pro- degradant additive is suitably introduced into the plastic in an amount effective to degrade the containers 12, 14 in a time frame ranging from about six months to about four years from the date the container is formed for use.

[0082] In another embodiment, it is contemplated that the container assembly 10 may include one or more intermediate fluid reservoirs between the first and second reservoirs 12, 14 as desired. In such embodiment, the first and second reservoirs 12, 14 may be removed to expose a desired intermediate reservoir. In still another embodiment, the sealing member 22 may serve as the base for the bottle assembly wherein the sealing member 22 may comprise a surface configuration effective to maintain the bottle assembly 10 in an upright position atop a substantially level surface, the second container 14 being oriented below the first container 12 in such an embodiment. In this embodiment, the bottle assembly 10 is suitably further balanced by the fact that the fluid storing second container 14 is located below the lighter gas storing first container 12.

[0083] Persons of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many modifications may be made to the present application without departing from the spirit and scope of the application. The embodiment(s) described herein are meant to be illustrative only and should not be taken as limiting the invention, which is defined in the claims.

Claims

WE CLAIM: 1. A bottle assembly comprising:

a first fluid container having a fluid outlet; and

a second fluid container having a fluid outlet, the second fluid container being attachable to the first fluid container;

wherein the first fluid container has a recessed nasal interface disposed about the fluid outlet; and

wherein the first fluid container is operationally configured to maintain the bottle assembly in an upright position atop a substantially level surface.

2. The bottle assembly of claim 1 wherein the first fluid container and second fluid container have substantially similar outer diameters.

3. The bottle assembly of claim 1 wherein the first and second fluid containers are constructed from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic.The .

4. The bottle assembly of claim 3 wherein the first fluid container has a crenellated base.

5. The bottle assembly of claim 3 wherein the first fluid container is constructed from PET plastic including a pro-degradant catalyst in an amount from about 0.5 % to about 5.0 % by weight of the first fluid container.

6. The bottle assembly of claim 4 wherein the first fluid container is constructed from PET plastic including a pro-degradant catalyst in an amount from about 0.5 % to about 5.0 % by weight of the first fluid container.

7. The bottle assembly of claim 1 wherein the first fluid container is operationally configured to dispense a pressurized consumable fluid.

8. The bottle assembly of claim 6 wherein the first fluid container is operationally configured to dispense a pressurized consumable fluid. The.

9. The bottle assembly of claim 1 wherein the first fluid container is operationally configured to store a fluid having a density less than the fluid stored in the second fluid container.

10. The bottle assembly of claim 4 wherein the first fluid container is operationally configured to store a fluid having a density less than the fluid stored in the second fluid container.

1 . The bottle assembly of claim 8 wherein the first fluid container is operationally configured to store a fluid having a density less than the fluid stored in the second fluid container.

2. The bottle assembly of claim 8 wherein the pressurized fluid includes a consumable gas.

13. The bottle assembly of claim 12 wherein the consumable gas is oxygen.

14. The bottle assembly of claim 8 wherein the first container may be pressurized up to about 620528 Pa (about 90 psi).

15. The bottle assembly of claim 10 wherein the fluid stored within the second fluid container is a consumable liquid.

16. The bottle assembly of claim 4 wherein the first and second containers are permanently attachable.

17. A bottle assembly comprising: a first fluid container for storing a pressurized consumable gas and having a recessed outlet for dispensing the gas;

a second fluid container for storing a consumable liquid, the second fluid container having a fluid outlet and being attachable to the first fluid container;

wherein the first and second fluid containers are constructed from one or more polymeric materials;

wherein the distal end of the first fluid container is effective to maintain the bottle assembly in an upright position atop a substantially level surface; and

wherein the distal end of the first fluid container has an outer diameter substantially similar to the outer diameter of the second fluid container.

18. The bottle assembly of claim 17 wherein the first fluid container is constructed from PET plastic including a pro-degradant catalyst in an amount from about 0.5 % to about 5.0 % by weight of the first fluid container.

19. The bottle assembly of claim 18 wherein the first container may be pressurized up to about 620528 Pa (about 90 psi).

20. A bottle assembly comprising:

a first fluid container having a recessed fluid outlet; and

a second fluid container having a fluid outlet; wherein the containers are operationally configured to attach to one another in a manner effective to provide a bottle assembly having fluid outlets at opposing ends of the assembled bottle;

wherein the recessed fluid outlet of the first fluid container is operationally configured to maintain the bottle assembly in an upright position atop a substantially level surface;

wherein the first container is constructed from a malleable metal effective for storing a pressurized consumable fluid;

wherein the second container is constructed from a degradable plastic effective for storing a consumable fluid; and

wherein the first and second containers comprise substantially similar outer diameters.