WO2022269636A1

WO2022269636A1 - An advanced inner measuring cup and methods related thereto

Info

Publication number: WO2022269636A1
Application number: PCT/IN2022/050570
Authority: WO
Inventors: Samax .
Original assignee: Samax
Priority date: 2021-06-22
Filing date: 2022-06-22
Publication date: 2022-12-29

Abstract

The present invention relates to dispensing systems for dispensing fluids. More particularly, the present invention relates to an inner measuring cup being attached to a dispensing system for dispensing various liquids in specific quantity from said dispensing system. The invention also relates to methods associated with said dispensing system.

Description

AN ADVANCED INNER MEASURING CUP AND METHODS REUATED THERETO

FIEUD OF THE INVENTION

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many liquids, such as cough syrups, liquid detergents, chemicals, and other liquid medications need to be dispensed in a calculated volume/amount for their effective use. Measuring cups are most commonly used tool to measure liquids as per the requirement of user. However, assuring measuring cup on the top of the container closure is difficult because it often separates or is misplaced. The person in need of a particular amount is then tempted to pour an unmeasured amount straight from the container. These external measuring cups are widely available in the market along with conventional containers due to its less expensive manufacturing & simple design; however, this measuring technique is un-hygienic, time consuming and difficult and prone to infections by virus, bacteria, micro-organisms which may be present in the ambient surroundings. Also, it is risky to handle such measuring tools with reactive chemicals. An additional wash is again required after each use of these cups to avoid contamination. Further, these measuring cups need special attention to use to avoid unwanted spill offs. In case of liquid medication, using these measuring cups or spoons to consume medicine is unsafe and can promote spread of bacteria and viruses to cause life threatening diseases to vulnerable patients.

Thus, there is a need of in-expensive simplified advanced measuring unit as replacement of general external measuring cups which fits with container with a provision of pre-setting, controlling & measuring the amount of fluid passing through it. Also, to serve the easy and safe handling of fluid with a combination of simply designed components.

There remains a need, for a measuring unit which may turn any conventional container and cap arrangement into a safe, easy and accurate dispensing system to dispense with a provision of easy pre-set, controlled & measured amount through it. The present invention provides a new and advanced inner measuring cup which overcomes the above-referenced problems and others. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention pertains to a dispensing system comprising; a container; a cap; and inner measuring cup which is adapted to attach to any conventional container or bottle to offer dispensing of liquids in pre-calculated amounts, wherein in an embodiment of present invention, the inner measuring cup adapted to attach fixedly inside the neck of container, wherein the inner measuring cup comprising an outer wall and inner wall to form an inner cup wherein the inner cup and an external means of restriction adapted to receive freely inside the side room of inner cup, wherein the inner cup comprises an inner cavity to receive fluid from the main chamber of container; an open channel having long outer side open with at least one end open; and a side room being connected with a window; and an air passage at bottom. The side room of inner cup is provided with a door to receive an external means of restriction.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the air passage of the inner cup is extended inwards to form an extension.

In an embodiment of the present invention wherein, the inner cup is provided with a side room extended to form an extension having open bottom to receive means of restriction.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the side room being received a means of restriction is enclosed by an end cap. For the purpose of the present invention, the means of restriction may have shape such as spherical, conical, flat and/or combination thereof.

The method for dispensing fluid from the dispensing system with inner cup of embodiments as above comprises the steps of: movement of fluid from main chamber of the container to the inner cavity of inner cup via open channel of the dispensing system in the overhead or inclined position; escaping of air present inside the inner cavity of inner cup via air passage in form of bubbles wherein the air passage remains open to facilitate the escape of air via air passage; the fluid filled above the proximal edge of open channel moves back to the main chamber of container while returning to the straight position of dispensing system; a fixed amount of fluid is retained inside the cavity of inner cup of inner measuring cup, wherein the air passage is closed with the interference of an external means of restriction.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a dispensing system comprising; a container; a cap; and an inner measuring cup adapted to attach fixedly inside the neck of container and cap arrangement of dispensing system, wherein the inner measuring cup comprises an outer wall and inner wall to form a main cavity to receive fluid from the main chamber of container, wherein the inner cavity is divided into proximal room and distal room of equal volume; an open channel having long outer side open with at least one end open; an air passage extended to form an extension at inner side having proximal finish and distal finish, wherein circumferential boundary of air passage is extended inward and/or outward to form an extension. In this embodiment, the inner measuring cup is provided with a collar of suitable diameter adapted to attach the inner measuring cup fixedly inside the neck of container.

The method for dispensing fluid from the dispensing system with inner measuring cup of aforesaid embodiment comprises the steps of: movement of the fluid from main chamber of the container to inner cavity of inner measuring cup via open channel in the overhead or inclined position; escaping of air present inside the inner cavity of inner measuring cup in form of bubbles though air passage; the fluid is received in the proximal room of the inner cavity of the inner measuring cup via open channel up to the level of proximal finish and the distal room having air trapped inside it in the overhead position; movement of fluid from the proximal room to distal room of the inner cavity of the inner measuring cup in straight position of the dispensing system.

In all embodiments of the present invention, the inner wall and outer wall of inner measuring cup are embossed or debossed with level markings on either one or both walls to indicate the level of fluid present in the main cavity.

The inner measuring cup of the present invention is made up of polymeric material including plastic and/or the like.

In an embodiment of present invention, the inner measuring cup comprising of an inner cup and a spherical means of restriction. The means of restriction is a rigid spherical with having smooth surface to perform opening and closing of the air passage in respect to the position of inner measuring cup of dispensing system. The means of restriction is of significant weight and moves freely inside the side room depending on the position of dispensing system being attached with inner measuring cup. The air passage remains close in a leak proof manner in the straight position of inner measuring cup, wherein the means of restriction due to gravitational force applies a constant pressure on the mouth of air passage. On the other hand, in the side room the means of restriction moves away from the mouth of the air passage with the change in position of inner measuring cup from straight to inclined position to open the mouth of air passage. The components of another embodiment of inner measuring cup comprising an inner cup, a means of restriction and an end cap in between a container and cap. In this embodiment of inner measuring cup, the inner cup is having an open channel collinear to side room, wherein the circumferential boundary of air passage is extended outwards to from a room for holding the means of restriction. The means of restriction rests freely after fitment of end cap concentric to the extension formed by extending the boundary of air passage with interference mate in a leak proof manner.

In an embodiment of present invention, the inner measuring cup is adapted to attach fixedly inside the neck of container of container and cap arrangement of dispensing system, wherein the inner measuring cup comprising; an outer wall and inner wall to form a main cavity to receive fluid from the main chamber of container; an open channel having long outer side open with at least one end open; an extension formed by extended boundary of air passage towards inner side of inner cup having proximal finish and distal finish. This embodiment of inner measuring cup is simplified version which can be molded in single part and adapted to attach to any conventional container or bottle to perform all functionality of inner measuring cup.

All the embodiments of inner measuring cups being attached to the neck of the container does not affect the closing and opening of the cap onto the container. The inner measuring cup rests in lock position inside the container with no relative motion in between the inner measuring cup and container. These inner measuring cups of present invention can be attached to any container or container without affecting the functionality of their features such as tamper evident seal, closing/door arrangement etc. Further, there is no requirement of any change in either the container or the cap to attach said inner measuring cup to turn a standard container and cap arrangement into an advanced dispensing system to dispense a particular amount of liquid as per the need of the user. The inner measuring cup caters the fixed as well as variable amount of dispensing of liquid from said dispensing system with single step process.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Fig.1(a) illustrates an exploded view of dispensing system provided with an inner measuring cup in between container and cap. Fig.1(b) illustrates a mid-cut frontal plane of the dispensing system fitted in container and cap assembly.

Fig.1(c) and (d) illustrates mid-cut frontal plane of an embodiment of inner measuring cup having alternative means of restriction.

Fig. 2 (a) illustrates a cross-sectional view along D-D of the inner cup of Fig. 2 (c).

Fig. 2 (b) to (g) illustrates a different view of the inner cup of the dispensing system.

Fig. 3 illustrates a frontal cross-sectional view along mid plane of another embodiment of dispensing system fitted in between container and cap.

Fig. 4 (a) illustrates a cross-sectional view along J-J of another embodiment of the inner cup of Fig. 4 (c).

Fig. 4 (b) to (h) illustrates different views of another embodiment of inner cup of the dispensing system.

Fig. 5 (a) and (b) illustrates a perspective and top view of the end cap of another embodiment of inner cup.

Fig. 5 (c) illustrates a cross-sectional front view along M-M of the end cap of Fig. 5 (b) of another embodiment of inner cup.

Fig. 6 illustrates a frontal cross-sectional view along mid plane of another embodiment of dispensing system fitted in between container and cap.

Fig. 7 (a) illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of inner measuring cup of Fig. 7 (c) of dispensing system.

Fig. 7 (b) to (h) illustrates different views of another embodiment of inner measuring cup of dispensing system.

Fig. 8 (a) and (b) illustrates a cross-sectional view along frontal plane of dispensing system being attached with inner measuring cup in over-head and straight position respectively.

Fig. 9 (a) and (b) illustrates a cross-sectional view along frontal plane of dispensing system being attached with an alternative embodiment of inner measuring cup in over-head and straight position respectively.

Fig. 10 (a) and (b) illustrates a cross-sectional view along frontal plane of dispensing system being attached with another embodiment of inner measuring cup in over-head and straight position respectively.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention pertains to a dispensing system comprising; a container; a cap; and an advanced inner measuring cup capable to easily pre-set and dispense a determined volume of fluid directly from the container being attached with said invention. Referring to Fig. 1 (a), it illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of inner measuring cup 200 of dispensing system 100 comprising an inner cup 10 and a means of restriction 20 in between conventional bottle 30 and cap 40, wherein the inner cup 10 is provided with cylindrical shape formed by an outer wall 42 with an inner cavity of predetermined volume that is formed by inner wall 38. The inner cup 10 is adapted to attach inside the neck 18 of bottle 30 having surface mate in between outer wall 42 and internal surface 34 of bottle 30 in a leak proof manner; wherein a means of restriction 20 is adapted to rest freely inside the side room 32 of inner cup 10 as illustrated in Fig. 1 (b).

In Fig. 1 (a), an exemplary container 30 and cap 40 has been illustrated with a screw thread 16 arrangement; however, this inner measuring cup 200 can be used with any type of bottle or container having any opening/closing arrangement in between the container 30 and cap 40 without limiting the scope of the invention.

Referring to Fig. 1 (b), it illustrates a frontal cross-sessional view of exemplary embodiment of inner measuring cup 200 comprising an inner cup 10 having a means of restriction 20, in between conventional container 30 and cap 40, wherein the inner cup 10 is being fitted concentrically inside the neck 18 of the container 30. The inner cup 10 is also provided with an open channel 12 and an air passage 36 at the bottom of the inner cup 10 to facilitate the escape of air/gas of the inner cup 10 via side room 32 in the inward/inclined position of dispensing system 100.

Fig. 1 (a) and (b) illustrating an inner cup 10 provided with a spherical means of restriction 20 adapted to receive freely inside the side room 32; however, the means of restriction 20 is not limited to spherical shape and may have other shape such as conical, oval, flat and/or combination thereof in alternative embodiments of inner measuring cup 200 of dispensing system 100.

Fig. 1 (c) illustrates an inner cup 10 being received with an exemplary embodiment of the means of restriction 20a having conical shape. And, Fig. 1 (d) illustrates another exemplary means of restriction 20b having a sharp point on one end and flattened head on the other to serve the same functionality of means of restriction of the inner cup 10 of dispensing system 100 without limiting the scope of invention.

Referring now to Fig 2 (a) to (g), they illustrate different views of inner cup 10 of one embodiment of the inner measuring cup 200 of dispensing system 100, wherein the inner cup 10 is having a cylindrical body being opened from top and covered from bottom is adapted to attach inside the neck of the container. From the base of the inner cup 10, a C shaped boundary is extended up to a certain length to from an open channel 12 having proximal edge 12a and distal edge 12b. On other longitudinal side of inner cup 10, being connected with main base of inner cup 10, a side room 32 is provided with an open outer door 32a adapted to receive a means of restriction 20 in free manner as shown in Fig. 2 (a) and (f). The side room 32 is also provided with an inner window 44 to communicate with main cavity of inner cup 10 formed by inner wall 38. Additionally, the base of side room 32 is also provided with a through cut to form an air passage 36 which links the inner cavity of inner cup with main volume of the container via side room 32.

Fig. 2 (a) illustrates a cross-sectional view along line D-D of Fig. 2 (c), showing an open channel 12, a side room 32 with door 32a and a window 44 at inner side. There is an air passage 36 above the side room 32 to facilitate the air escape in the inward position of dispensing system 100. The side room 32 is provided with a door 32a to facilitate the insertion of a means of restriction 20 to make the inner cup 10 functional. The inner cup 10 is provided with inner wall 38 and outer wall 42, wherein level markings 50 has been embossed/debossed on either surface of the inner cup 10 without limiting the scope of the invention as shown in Figure 2(b). The window 44 is provided to the side room 32 towards the inside of the inner cup 10 to facilitate the escape of the air/gas of inner cavity of inner cup 10 in the inward or inclined position of the dispensing system 100 through air passage 36 via side room 32.

Further, the circumferential boundary of the air passage 36 can be extended outward to form a short tail like structure in the alternative embodiments of the inner cup 10 of inner measuring cup 200 of dispensing system 100 without limiting the scope of the invention.

Referring to Fig. 2 (b), illustrate a perspective view of the inner cup 10, wherein an air passage 36 is shown in the base of the inner cup 10 and open channel 12 with both distal edge 12b is shown in the right.

As described in above paragraphs, the inner cup 10 of dispensing system 100 is adapted to attach inside the neck 18 of the container 30, the internal surface 34 of container 30 provides a side covering to the open channel 12 to turn it into a long tubular passage with both ends open for the exchange of fluid in between main chamber of container 30 and inner cavity of inner cup 10. Also, the inner measuring cup 200 being received inside the neck 18 container 30, encloses the door 32a with internal surface 34 in a leak proof manner. Referring to Fig. 2 (c), it illustrates a bottom view of the inner cup 10 of inner measuring cup 200, wherein an open channel 12 of C-shaped cross-section in the right of the figure has been shown as a through passage with three enclosed side walls to guide fluid from main chamber of the container to the inner cavity of the inner cup 10. The open channel 12 is provided with a C-shaped cross-section in the exemplary embodiment of inner cup 10; however, it may have cross-section of other shapes including circular, semicircular, triangular, trapezoidal and/or combination thereof in alternative embodiments of inner cup 10 of inner measuring cup 200 of dispensing system 100. The base of inner cup 10 having an outer wall 42 forming an air passage 36 as shown in Fig. 2 (c)

Referring to Fig. 2 (d) and (e), they illustrate a right and front side view respectively of the inner cup 10 of the dispensing system 100, wherein Fig. 2 (d) is illustrating the through passage of open channel 12 with distal edge 12b and Fig. 2 (e) illustrating the level markings 50.

Referring to Fig. 2 (f) and (g), they illustrate a perspective and top view respectively of the inner cup 10, wherein the side room 32 below the air passage 36 is shown on left and open channel 12 on right. Also, the figure illustrates the door 32a for facilitating the means of restriction 20 before assembly of dispensing system 100.

Referring again to Fig. 1 (b), a spherical means of restriction 20 is being received inside the side room 32 of the inner cup 10 in a free manner, wherein the means of restriction 20 is being trapped due to the interference of internal surface 34 of container 30 to completely close the door 32a in an assembled configuration of inner measuring cup 200 to avoid any accidental escape of dispensing fluids from dispensing system 100. The side room 32 is also provided with a window 44 to allow escape of air from the inner cavity of inner cup 10 through air passage 36 via side room 32 in the inward/inclined position of dispensing system 100 being attached with inner measuring cup 200. The proximal face of inner cup 24 and proximal face of container 22 makes a leak proof surface mate with the internal wall 48 of the cap 40 in close configuration of the cap 40.

In the inward or inclined position of dispensing system 100 being attached with inner measuring cup 200 in close configuration of cap 40, the fluid of the container moves from main chamber of container 30 to the inner cavity of inner measuring cup 200 via open channel 12 until completely fills the volume of inner cup 10. With the change of position of dispensing system 100 from inward/inclined position to straight position, the excess fluid inside the inner cavity of inner cup 10 above the level of height of proximal edge 12a of open channel 12 moves back to main chamber of container 30 via open channel 12. The height of open channel 12 decides the level of fluid to stay inside the inner cavity of inner cup 10 in the straight position of dispensing system 100. On other side the side room 32 communicates with inner cavity via window 44 and on same time holds a means of restriction to make the air passage 36 open in only the inclined/inward position of inner measuring cup 200. In the present invention the means of restrictions are represented in spherical shape; however other shapes such as conical, oval, flat and/or combination thereof may be used in alternative embodiments of inner measuring cup 200.

Fig. 3 illustrates a frontal cross-sessional view of an alternative embodiment of inner measuring cup 200, wherein an embodiment of inner measuring cup is being received concentrically inside the neck 18 of the container 30 with an interference mate in a leak proof manner. The inner cup 110 of this embodiment of dispensing system has been extended downwards to receive larger quantity of fluid as compared to the above defined embodiment of inner cup 10. Also, the side room outer opening to put a means of restriction 20 has been shifted from side to bottom, wherein the means of restriction 20 is retained inside the room 32 with the interference of additional member referred as end cap 60. In this embodiment, the inner cup 110 is adapted to fix inside the neck 18 of container 30 with an interference mate in between outer wall 42 of inner cup 110 and internal surface 34 of container neck 18, concentrically.

As illustrated in Fig. 3, an embodiment of inner measuring cup 200 is being received to the container 30 in closed configuration in straight position, wherein the means of restriction 20 is resting inside the room 32 by keeping the hole 54 of end cap 60 completely closed in a leak proof manner. The end cap 60 acts as an enclosure to keep the means of restriction 20 inside the room 32. The end cap 60 is fitted concentrically onto the extension 14 with an interference mate between the outer wall 42 of inner cup 110 and inner enclosure 56 of end cap 60 in a leak proof manner. The main role of end cap 60 is to lock the means of restriction 20 inside the side room 32 to avoid any accidental escape of means of restriction in the meanwhile of dispensing from the dispensing system 100 being attached with an embodiment of inner measuring cup 200.

The alternative embodiment of Fig. 3 also possesses same functionality and method of use as inner measuring cup illustrated in Fig. 1.

Now referring to Fig. 4 (a), it illustrates a cross-sectional view along line J-J of Fig. 4 (c) of another embodiment of inner cup 110 of dispensing system 100. Its open channel 12 is collinear with its extensionl4, wherein the extension 14 is formed by extending the circumferential boundary of the side room 32 downwards by keeping the bottom open to receive external means of restriction 20. Another end cap 60 is required to lock the means of restriction inside the side room 32. The inner cup 110 is also provided with inner wall 38 and outer wall 42 respectively, wherein level markings 50 are provided embossed or debossed on either inner wall 38 or outer wall 42 of inner cup 110. The side room 32 is also provided with window 44 connecting the inner cavity of the inner cup with air passage 36 of inner cup 110 of dispensing system 100. The open channel 12 in this embodiment of inner cup is having only proximal edge 12a and side opening 12c in open condition whereas the distal edge 12b is being closed as seen in Fig. 4 (a) to (h).

Referring to Fig. 4 (b), (c), (d) and (e), they illustrate a perspective, top, left and front side view respectively of inner cup 110 of dispensing system 100.

Referring to Fig. 4 (f) and (g) illustrates a perspective and bottom view respectively of inner cup 110 of dispensing system 100 having outer wall 42, wherein open channel 12 collinear to extension 14 is partially visible along with level markings 50 and collar 52 in Fig. 4 (f).

Fig. 4 (h) illustrates a perspective view of inner cup 110 of another embodiment of dispensing system 100, wherein the outer wall 42 is provided with a collar member 52 and level markings 50. An extension 14 collinear to an open channel 12 having a long opening 12c in the outside of inner cup 110 is shown in the Fig. 4 (h).

Referring to Fig 5 (a) and (b), they illustrate a perspective and top view respectively of end cap 60 of alternative inner measuring cup 210 respectively, wherein inner encloser 56 is provided to receive extension 14 of inner cup being freely received the means of restriction 20 inside it. A through hole 54 is also provided at the bottom of the end cap 60 with filleted edges to facilitate the rest of the means of restriction in a leak proof manner. In present embodiment of inner measuring cup 210, the end cap 60 fit onto the top of extension 14; however, in alternative embodiments of inner measuring cup 200, end cap can fit concentrically inside the extension 14 being received a means of restriction inside the extension 14.

Referring to Fig. 5 (c), it illustrates a cross-sectional view along line M-M of Fig. 5 (b) of end cap 60 of inner measuring cup 210. The end cap 60 is provided in cylindrical shape with proximal end open and distal end with a through hole 54 concentric to main cylindrical body of end cap 60. The end cap 60 is a hollow component designed to lock the means of restriction 20 inside the extension 14 of inner cup 110 of dispensing system 100. In this embodiment of inner measuring cup 210, the end cap 60 is designed to make an interference surface lock in between the outer wall 42 of extension 14 of inner cup 110 and inner enclosure 56 of end cap 60 in a leak proof manner; however, the end cap may have arrangement such as snap fit, screw fit etc. other than interference surface mate to lock the end cap 60 to the extension 14 of inner cup 110 in alternative embodiments of inner measuring cup 210 of dispensing system 100.

Referring to Fig. 6, it illustrates another embodiment of inner measuring cup, wherein the inner measuring cup 310 is being attached inside the neck 18 of container 30 in close configuration of container 30 and cap 40. This alternative inner measuring cup 310 is a simplified embodiment of inner measuring cup 200 having no requirement of any means of restriction and/or side room 32 with door 32a and window 44; however, serves all functionality of disclosed embodiments of inner measuring cups with single component. This variant of inner measuring cup 310 having inner cavity formed by inner wall 38, wherein the volume of inner cavity is divided in proximal room 38a and distal room 38b in equal manner. The proximal room 38a and distal room 38b constitutes a single volume as inner cavity; however, the only proximal room 38a receives fluid from main chamber of container in inward/inclined position of dispensing system 100, wherein the received fluid by proximal room 38a moves to distal room 38b while turning the dispensing system 100 from inclined/inward to straight position. The rest of the reference numerals have the same meaning as explained in earlier embodiments.

Referring to Fig. 7 (a) to (h), they illustrate different views of another embodiment of inner measuring cup 310 of dispensing system 100. This inner measuring cup 310 is having an open channel 12 with an open proximal edge 12a and distal edge 12b similar to above embodiment of inner measuring cup 200. However, in this embodiment of inner measuring cup 310, the circumferential boundary of the air passage 36 is extended towards inside up to a certain height with elimination of side room 32 having door 32a and window 44 connected to it. Unlike to above explained embodiments of inner measuring cups, this inner measuring cup 310 does not require any means of restriction or end cap 60 to perform its functionality. This embodiment of inner measuring cup 310 is molded in one part to perform calculated dispensing of fluids therethrough the said dispensing system 100. This embodiment of the inner measuring cup is complete in itself and adapted to attach to any conventional container to dispense a specified amount of fluid. This alternative inner measuring cup 310 is a simplified version having two channels, wherein a pre calculated amount can be received for further dispensing therethrough this dispensing system 100. Referring to Fig. 7 (a), it illustrates a cross-sectional view of alternative inner measuring cup 310 of dispensing system 100, wherein the circumferential boundary of an air passage 36 is extended towards the inner side of the main body; however, the boundary of air passage 36 may be extended to outward as well in the alternative embodiments of the inner measuring cups 310 of dispensing system 100. In Fig. 7 (a), the upper portion of cylindrical shaped inner measuring cup is provided with larger diameter resulting to form collar 52 adapted to make concentric fit inside the container’s neck; however, the complete inner measuring cup 310 may have same diameter in alternative embodiment of inner measuring cup of dispensing system 100.

Fig. 7 (b) illustrating the perspective view of inner measuring cup 310 having an extension 14 with both ends open and one open channel 12 similar to above embodiments of inner cups.

Fig. 7 (c), (d), (e) and (f) illustrate a top, right, bottom and left view respectively having inner wall 38 and outer wall 42, wherein the Fig. 7 (c) is showing the proximal finish 14a of extension 14 and Fig 7 (f) is showing the long opening of open channel 12. Fig 7(d) shows the level markings 50 to indicate the level of fluid present inside the cavity formed by inner wall 38 of inner measuring cup 310.

Fig. 7 (g) and (h) illustrate a front and perspective view respectively of alternative inner measuring cup 310 having collar 52 and level markings 50 to indicate the level of fluid present inside the cavity formed by inner wall 38 of inner measuring cup 310.

Referring now to Fig. 8 (a), it illustrates a cross-sectional view along frontal plane of dispensing system 100 being attached with inner measuring cup 200 in overhead position of the dispensing system 100, wherein the cavity of inner measuring cup 200 is being filled with fluid 70, and the means of restriction 20 is resting away from air passage 36 inside the side room 32. The means of restriction 20 is having a significant weight; therefore, moves toward or away from the inner mouth of air passage 36 to open or close the air passage 36 with respect to the position of the dispensing system 100. The means of restriction 20 makes a communication in between air passage 36 and inner cavity of inner cup 10 via side room 32 for escape of the air/gases of inner cavity of inner cup 10 while receiving the fluid from main chamber of container 30 via open channel 12 in the inward/inclined position of dispensing system 100. Whereas, this means of restriction 20 engages or disengages the communication in between the air passage 36 and inner cavity of inner cup to secure a specific amount of fluid in the inner cavity of inner cup 10 in the straight position of dispensing system 100. Referring to Fig. 8 (a) for explaining the working of inner measuring cup 200 being attached to the neck 18 of container 30, wherein in the closed configuration of container 30 having fluid 70, the fluid moves from main chamber of container 30 to the inner cavity of inner cup 10 via open channel 12 in the overhead/inclined position of dispensing system 100. As the open channel is a narrow long passage, a gentle shake is required to make fluid flowing through it smoothly. A slight shake of dispenser system 100 also move fluid faster which simultaneously accelerates the escape of air/gas present inside the inner cavity of inner cup 10 via air passage 36 in the form of bubbles 80. The air passage 36 remains open in inward/inclined position of dispensing system 100 to facilitate the easy escape of air via air passage 36. As the proximal edge 12a of open channel does not touch the internal wall 48 of cap 40, the fluid filled above the level of proximal edge 12a, moves back to the main chamber of container 30 while returning to the straight position of dispensing system 100 as in Fig. 8(b). The gap in between the proximal edge 12a and internal wall 48 of cap 40 assist liquid not to rise above the level of proximal edge 12a to avoid any spill offs while removing the cap 40 for further dispensing of fluid therethrough the dispensing system 100. Also, the air passage 36 remains closed in the straight position of dispensing system 100 to avoid any leakage of fluid via air passage 36. Thus, cavity of inner measuring cup 200 collects a specific amount of fluid in the straight position of dispensing system 100 as illustrated in Fig. 8 (b).

Referring to Fig. 8 (b), a fixed amount of fluid is retained inside the cavity of inner cup 10 of inner measuring cup 200, wherein the air passage 36 is closed with the interference of means of restriction 20. On other side, an open channel 12 is filled up to the level of proximal edge 12a. Further tilting is required after complete removal of cap 40 to dispense the collected amount therefrom the inner cavity of pre-calculated amount of inner measuring cup 200. A gentle tilt of container 30 is required for dispensing; however, a squeeze or shake of container 30 in inclined /inward position of dispensing system 100 without cap 40 can lead an unwanted release of fluid via open channel 12. After complete removal of cap 40, the fluid of specific volume can also be taken straight to mouth by user from container 30.

Referring again to Fig. 1, it illustrates an embodiment of inner measuring cup 200 with inner cup 10, wherein the inner cup 10 is manufactured in one piece and is ready to use after installing it inside the neck 18 of container 30 with a means of restriction 20. The installation and assembly of this embodiment of the inner measuring cup 200 is extremely simple which includes basic instructions to turn any container and cap system into an advanced dispensing system 100. The assembly of the inner measuring cup 200 is a one-step process which requires an insertion of a means of restriction 20 to the side room 32 through given side door 32a in the side room 32. Also, the installation of this inner measuring cup 200 requires an alignment of inner measuring cup concentric to the neck 18 of the container 30, and then the inner measuring cup 200 can be placed inside the neck 18 of container 30 with the application of force in the direction of container 30. In this way, the inner cup 10 and means of restriction 20 can be assembled to make an inner measuring cup 200 which can be installed by inserting it inside the neck 18 of the container.

In all exemplary embodiments of inner cup, the air passage 36 is having a diameter with cross- sectional area less than the cross-sectional area of open channel to create a smooth flow of fluid air passage of inner cavity formed by inner wall 38 of inner measuring cup 200 in the inward or inclined position of dispensing system 100.

Referring now to Fig. 9 (a) and (b), they illustrate a cross-section view of frontal plane of dispensing system 100 being attached with inner measuring cup 200 in inward and straight position respectively, wherein the dispensing system 100 is having fluid 70. The working principle for this embodiment of the inner measuring cup 210 will remain same as of previously explained embodiment of inner measuring cup 200. The only difference in between the inner measuring cup 200 of Fig. 8 (a-b) and the inner measuring cup 210 of Fig. 9 (a-b) is that the inner cup 10 of Fig. 8 (a-b) is made up in single body having a side room 32 with outward door 32a which is open from outside to receive an external means of restriction 20 which can be locked inside the side room 32 with the interference of internal surface 34 of container 30 in dispensing system 100. The inner measuring cup 210 of Fig. 9(a-b) is having side room 32 formed by extending the circumferential boundary of air passage 36 towards bottom, wherein an external component as an end cap 60 is required to lock the means of restriction 20 inside the side room 32 instead of internal surface 34 of container 30 of dispensing system 100. All the working of this alternative inner measuring cup 210 will remain similar to above explained working of inner measuring cup 200.

The alternative inner measuring cup 210 of Fig. 9 (a) and (b) is capable to serve larger quantities of calculated fluid as it has inner cavity of larger volume which is formed by internal wall 38 of inner cup 110. In this embodiment of inner measuring cup, the open channel 12 is collinear to the extension formed by extending air passage 36; however, the open channel 12 may be non-collinear to air passage 36 in alternative embodiments of the inner measuring cup 210. Also, the position of window in inner cup 110 may be changed in the alternative embodiments of inner measuring cups. Referring to Fig. 10 (a) and (b), they illustrate an alternative embodiment of inner measuring cup 200 as inner measuring cup 310 being fit inside the neck 18 of container 30 having fluid 70, wherein the Fig. 10 (a) and (b) showing the overhead and straight position respectively of dispensing system 100.

Referring to Fig 10 (a), the inner measuring cup 310 is a long cylindrical body having internal wall 38 forming a main cavity of predetermined volume, wherein the main inner cavity is divided in two equal portions referred as proximal room 38a and distal room 38b which together constitutes a common inner cavity. The open channel 12 of C-shaped cross-section is an open passage having long outer side open. This channel is positioned in the longitudinal side of inner measuring cup 310 to facilitate the supply of fluid from main camber of container 30 to main cavity of inner measuring cup 310 in the over-head or inclined position of dispensing system 100, wherein the channel 12 closes from outer side with the interference of internal surface 34 of container 30 being received with inner measuring cup 310. The inner measuring cup 310 is also provided with another extension 14 in the lower portion of main body with air passage 36. This extension 14 lies in the distal room 38b of inner measuring cup 310, wherein this extension 14 is provided with proximal finish 14a and distal finish 14b.

Now referring to Fig. 10 (a) to explain the working of this embodiment of inner measuring cup 310. in the over-head or inclined position of dispensing system being attached with inner measuring cup 310, the fluid moves from main chamber of container 30 to main cavity of inner measuring cup 310 via open channel 12, wherein the air/gas present inside the inner cavity moves to main chamber of container 30 in the form of bubbles though air passage 36. As the air passage 36 is extended towards inward up to the proximal finish 14a, the air/gas collected in distal room 38b above the level of proximal finish 14a in the overhead position of dispensing system 100 stays trapped in it. Thus, would not allow the entry of fluid to raise above the level of proximal finish 14a in the inward position of dispensing system 100. As illustrated in Fig. 10 (a), the fluid is received in the internal cavity via open channel 12 up to the level of proximal finish 14a, whereas the distal room 38b having air/gas trapped inside it in the overhead position of inner measuring cup being attached with container 30.

Referring to Fig. 10 (b), it illustrates the straight position of inner measuring cup 310 being received in container 30 and cap 40 arrangement, wherein the distal room 38b is carrying the fluid 70. As the dispensing system turns from overhead position to straight position, the fluid present in the proximal room 38a instantly moves to distal room 38b due to the weight of fluid caused by gravitational force. Thus, an amount of pre-calculated volume gets received inside the inner cavity of inner measuring cup 310 which further can be dispensed after complete removal of cap 40 with tilting action.

The inner measuring cup offers an easy assembly and installment to turn any standard container and cap arrangement into dispensing system 100 as described in present invention.

All the embodiments of inner measuring cups being attached to the neck of the container does not affects the closing and opening of the cap onto the container 30. The inner measuring cup rests in lock position inside the container with no relative motion in between the inner measuring cup and container. These inner measuring cups of present invention can be attached to any container or container without affecting the functionality of their features such as tamper evident seal, closing/door arrangement etc. Further, there is no requirement of any change in either the container or the cap to attach said inner measuring cup to turn a standard container and cap arrangement into an advanced dispensing system to dispense a particular amount of liquid as per the need of the user. The inner measuring cup caters the fixed as well as variable amount of dispensing of liquid from said dispensing system 100 with single step process.

This process of filling of fluid inside the cavity of inner measuring cup 200 causes the escape of air from an extension 14 in the form of bubbles 80 which creates a dripping sound inside the dispensing system 100. This bubble formation also causes physical sensations in the form of vibrations while holding the dispensing system 100 with hand. This helps to recognize or feel the process of filling of cavity of inner measuring cup 200 while holding it in hand, and this physical sensations to hand stops after filling up the cavity of inner measuring cup 200 in complete manner.

The inner measuring cup in the exemplary embodiments are provided with an open channel, wherein C-shaped channel started from base of inner cup running parallel to the longitudinal axis of inner cup up to a height below the proximal face of inner cup 24 to avoid complete filling of fluid up to the level of proximal face of inner cup 24 to avoid spill off of fluid while removing the cap 40 of dispensing system 100 and dispensing the pre-calculated amount of fluid therefrom the dispensing system 100. Also, the longitudinal outer side of these embodiments of inner cups in Fig. 1 to 10 are provided with open channel 12 to receive fluid up to the last drop from the main chamber of container 30 in a smooth manner. And the combination of open channel and air passage of these inner cups help to empty dispensing system 100 in complete manner without trapping any fluid inside the container 30. The inner measuring cup in the exemplary embodiments in Fig. 1 to 10 is provided with a flat circular base; however, the base of inner cup 10 may have curve, conical, tapered, slant and/or combination of thereof as per the need of use in the alternative embodiments without limiting the scope of the invention.

Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof.

Thus, from the foregoing description, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many changes and modifications can be made thereto without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of the foregoing description be limited to the exact description set forth above, but rather that such description be construed as encompassing such features that reside in the present invention, including all the features and embodiments that would be treated as equivalents thereof by those skilled in the relevant art.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

10 inner cup 12 open channel 12a proximal edge 12b distal edge 12c long opening 12d base end 14 extension 14a proximal finish 14b distal finish 16 screw thread 18 container neck 20 means of restriction 22 proximal face of container 24 proximal face of inner cup 26 external wall 28 container base 30 container

32 side room 32a door

34 internal surface 36 air passage 38 inner wall

38a proximal room 38b distal room 40 cap

42 outer wall 44 window

46 container shoulder 48 internal wall 50 level markings 52 collar 54 hole

56 inner encloser 60 end cap 70 fluid 80 bubble 100 dispensing system

110 inner cup (extended)

200 inner measuring cup

210 inner measuring cup (extended)

310 inner measuring cup (without means of restriction)

Claims

Claims:

1. A dispensing system (100) comprising; a container (30); a cap (40); and an inner measuring cup (200, 210) adapted to attach fixedly inside the neck (18) of container (30), wherein the inner measuring cup (200, 210) comprising an outer wall (42) and inner wall (38) to form an inner cup (10, 110), wherein the inner cup (10, 110) and an external means of restriction (20) adapted to receive freely inside the side room (32) of inner cup (10), wherein the inner cup (10,110) comprising; an inner cavity to receive fluid from the main chamber of container (30); an open channel (12) having long outer side open with at least one end open; and a side room (32) being connected with a window (44); and an air passage (36) at bottom.

2. The dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the side room (32) of inner cup (10) is provided with a door (32a) to receive an external means of restriction (20).

3. The dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the inner cup ( 110) is provided with a side room (32) extended to form an extension (14) having open bottom to receive means of an external means of restriction (20).

4. The dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the side room (32) being received an external means of restriction (20) of the inner cup (110) is enclosed by an end cap (60).

5. The dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the external means of restriction (20) having shape such as spherical, conical, flat or combination thereof.

6. The dispensing system (100) comprising; a container (30); a cap (40); and an inner measuring cup (310) adapted to attach fixedly inside the neck (18) of container (30), wherein the inner measuring cup (310) comprising an outer wall (42) and inner wall (38) to form an inner cavity to receive fluid from the main chamber of container (30), wherein the inner cavity is divided into proximal room (38a) and distal room (38b) of equal volume; an open channel (12) having long outer side open with at least one end open; an air passage (36) extended to form an extension (14) at inner side having proximal finish (14a) and distal finish (14b).

7. The dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the inner measuring cup (310) is provided with a collar (52) adapted to attach the said inner measuring cup (310) fixedly inside the neck (18) of container (30).

8. The dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1 and 6, wherein the circumferential boundary of air passage (36) of the inner measuring cup (200, 310) is extended outward to form a short tail.

9. The dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1 to 8, wherein the inner measuring cup (200, 210, 310) having inner wall (38) and outer wall (42) provided with embossed or debossed level markings (50) on either one or both walls to indicate the level of fluid present in the main cavity.

10. The dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1 to 9, wherein the inner measuring cup (200, 210, 310) is made up of polymeric material including plastic or the alike.

11. A method for dispensing fluid (70) from the dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1 to 5 comprising the steps of:

- movement of fluid (70) from main chamber of the container (30) to the inner cavity of inner cup (10, 110) via open channel (12) of the dispensing system (100) in the overhead or inclined position;

- escaping of air present inside the inner cavity of inner cup (10,110) via air passage (36) in form of bubbles (80) wherein the air passage (36) remains open to facilitate the escape of air via air passage (36); - the fluid (70) filled above the proximal edge (12a) of open channel (12) moves back to the main chamber of container (30) while returning to the straight position of dispensing system (100);

- a fixed amount of fluid (70) is retained inside the cavity of inner cup (10,110) of inner measuring cup (200, 210), wherein the air passage (36) is closed with the interference of an external means of restriction (20).

12. A method for dispensing fluid (70) from the dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 6 to 9 comprising the steps of:

- movement of the fluid (70) from main chamber of the container (30) to inner cavity of inner measuring cup (310) via open channel (12) in the overhead or inclined position;

- escaping of air present inside the inner cavity of inner measuring cup (310) in form of bubbles (80) though air passage (36);

- the fluid (70) is received in the proximal room (38a) of the inner cavity of the inner measuring cup (310) via open channel (12) up to the level of proximal finish (14a) and the distal room (38b) having air trapped inside it in the overhead position;

- movement of fluid (70) from the proximal room (38a) to distal room (38b) of the inner cavity of the inner measuring cup (310) in straight position of the dispensing system.