US20100314418A1 - Dispenser Adapted To Engage A Bottle And For Use With Consumable Fluid Having Solid Ingredients - Google Patents
Dispenser Adapted To Engage A Bottle And For Use With Consumable Fluid Having Solid Ingredients Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20100314418A1 US20100314418A1 US12/484,481 US48448109A US2010314418A1 US 20100314418 A1 US20100314418 A1 US 20100314418A1 US 48448109 A US48448109 A US 48448109A US 2010314418 A1 US2010314418 A1 US 2010314418A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- hopper
- bottle
- dispenser
- membrane
- collar
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
- B65D47/04—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
- B65D47/20—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps comprising hand-operated members for controlling discharge
- B65D47/2018—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps comprising hand-operated members for controlling discharge comprising a valve or like element which is opened or closed by deformation of the container or closure
- B65D47/2031—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps comprising hand-operated members for controlling discharge comprising a valve or like element which is opened or closed by deformation of the container or closure the element being formed by a slit, narrow opening or constrictable spout, the size of the outlet passage being able to be varied by increasing or decreasing the pressure
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G19/00—Table service
- A47G19/30—Other containers or devices used as table equipment
- A47G19/32—Food containers with dispensing devices for bread, rolls, sugar, or the like; Food containers with movable covers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D41/00—Caps, e.g. crown caps or crown seals, i.e. members having parts arranged for engagement with the external periphery of a neck or wall defining a pouring opening or discharge aperture; Protective cap-like covers for closure members, e.g. decorative covers of metal foil or paper
- B65D41/02—Caps or cap-like covers without lines of weakness, tearing strips, tags, or like opening or removal devices
- B65D41/26—Caps or cap-like covers serving as, or incorporating, drinking or measuring vessels
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D47/00—Closures with filling and discharging, or with discharging, devices
- B65D47/04—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps
- B65D47/32—Closures with discharging devices other than pumps with means for venting
Definitions
- the present invention is generally directed to dispensers and, more specifically, to a dispenser adapted for use with thick consumable fluids that may include solid ingredients too large for use with conventional dispensers.
- Typical dispensers are used to pour alcohol and other low viscosity fluids from bottles.
- thick fluids tend not to work with conventional dispensers as the fluid tends to clog portions of the dispenser mechanism. This problem is further exacerbated when the fluid has larger solid particles therein that tend to completely obstruct fluid flow through conventional dispensers.
- one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with thick salad dressing having solid ingredients therein.
- the dispenser including a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of salad dressing.
- the hopper having a first hopper end adapted to be located distally from the bottle.
- the first hopper end having a generally oval shape.
- the dispenser flaring generally conically outwardly from the bottle to create at least a portion of a hand grip adapted to facilitate pouring salad dressing from the hopper.
- a collar is engaged with the dispenser body and adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle.
- the collar has first and second collar ends.
- the hopper further comprises a tube that extends through the collar and is adapted to be located within the bottle when the dispenser is attached thereto.
- the tube has an inner surface defining a channel.
- a membrane is located on the dispenser body and is positioned to be inside of the bottle when the collar is secured to the bottle. The membrane is adapted to allow flow therethrough from the bottle to the hopper, but not from the hopper to the bottle, of salad dressing having solid ingredients with a largest dimension of up to at least one quarter of an inch while allowing the solid ingredients to transport through the membrane and into the hopper.
- the membrane when in a closed position, is generally convex such that an apex extends inside the hopper.
- the membrane has a generally circular shape formed by a plurality flaps joined together to form a circumference of the membrane.
- the dispenser is adapted to allow dispensing of the salad dressing including the solid ingredients in the predetermined amount from the hopper.
- the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with thick consumable fluids having solid ingredients therein.
- the dispenser includes a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of consumable fluid.
- the hopper has a first hopper end adapted to be located distally from the bottle.
- the first hopper end having a generally oval shape.
- a collar is engaged with the dispenser body and is adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle.
- the collar has first and second collar ends. At least a portion of the hopper is located on the first collar end so that the at least a portion of the hopper is located outside of the bottle when the dispenser is attached thereto.
- the hopper further comprises a tube that extends through the collar and is adapted to be located within the bottle when the dispenser is attached thereto.
- the dispenser body flares generally conically outwardly from the bottle to create at least a portion of a hand grip adapted to facilitate pouring salad dressing from the hopper.
- the tube defines a channel along an inner surface.
- a membrane is located on the dispenser body and is positioned to be inside of the bottle when the collar is secured to the bottle.
- the membrane is adapted to allow flow therethrough from the bottle to the hopper, but not from the hopper to the bottle, of consumable fluid having solid ingredients with a largest dimension of up to at least one quarter of an inch while allowing the solid ingredients to transport through the membrane and into the hopper.
- the membrane when in a closed position, is generally convex such that an apex extends inside the hopper.
- the membrane has first and second membrane sides. The first membrane side having a lip positioned along the perimeter.
- one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with thick salad dressing having solid ingredients therein.
- the dispenser includes a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of salad dressing.
- the hopper defines a first hole therethrough.
- a collar is engaged with the dispenser body and is adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle.
- the collar includes a sheath for receiving at least part of the hopper. The sheath defining a second hole therethrough.
- the hopper is moveable, relative to the collar, between a first hopper position, in which the first and second holes are not aligned and the salad dressing cannot pass between the bottle and the hopper, and a second hopper position, in which the first and second holes are aligned to allow salad dressing to pass between the bottle and the hopper.
- the dispenser is adapted to allow dispensing of the salad dressing including the solid ingredients in the predetermined amount from the hopper.
- the dispenser is preferably not suitable for preventing the passage of alcoholic beverages therethrough from the hopper back to the bottle when an attached bottle is shaken.
- one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with consumable fluid which may have solid ingredients therein.
- the dispenser includes a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of consumable fluid.
- a collar is engaged with the dispenser body and is adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle.
- a membrane is located on the dispenser body and is positioned to be inside
- one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with consumable fluid.
- the dispenser includes a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of consumable fluid.
- the hopper defines a first hole therethrough.
- a collar is engaged with the dispenser body and is adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle.
- the collar includes a sheath for receiving at least part of the hopper. The sheath defining a second hole therethrough.
- the hopper is moveable, relative to the collar, between a first hopper position, in which the first and second holes are not aligned and the consumable fluid cannot pass between the bottle and the hopper, and a second hopper position, in which the first and second holes are aligned to allow consumable fluid to pass between the bottle and the hopper.
- the dispenser is adapted to allow dispensing of consumable fluid in the predetermined amount from the hopper.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
- the dispenser includes a dispenser body that defines a hopper which preferably flares generally outwardly from the top of the bottle;
- the dispenser body is adapted to be preferably secured to the bottle via a collar;
- a lid may be attached to the top of the hopper via a snap fit connection of the like;
- FIG. 1A is a schematic showing an exemplary solid ingredient which may be transported from a bottle, into the hopper of the dispenser, and later dispensed as part of a predetermined amount of consumable fluid;
- Various dimensions of the solid ingredient are shown as well as the largest dimension; While one exemplary shape is shown, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the solid ingredient can have any shape and/or configuration without departing from the scope of the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is an enlarged front elevational view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 illustrating the hopper being configured to include a tube that preferably extends into the bottle;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 with the lid removed; the inner surface of the hopper preferably includes markings to allow one of multiple different predetermined amounts of consumable fluid to be dispensed from the hopper;
- the top of the hopper preferably has a generally oval shape which may be formed by two short strait segments connected by two arcuate segments; those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the mouth of the hopper can have any shape without departing from the scope of the present invention;
- FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 ;
- the tube of the hopper preferably defines a channel which receives the membrane;
- the membrane can be secured in position by a ring;
- the membrane may be located on the dispenser body and positioned to be inside of the bottle when the collar is secured to the bottle;
- the membrane can be adapted to allow flow therethrough from the bottle to the hopper, but not from the hopper to the bottle, of consumable fluid having solid ingredients with a largest dimension of up to anywhere from one sixty fourth of an inch to one inch while allowing the solid ingredients to transport through the membrane and into the hopper;
- the membrane can be configured to operate with solid ingredients of any size without departing from the scope of the present invention;
- the membrane when in a closed position, is preferably generally convex such that an apex extends inside the hopper;
- the membrane can have first and second membrane sides;
- the first membrane side may have a lip positioned along the perimeter;
- the membrane may have a generally circular shape formed
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a the dispenser of FIG. 1 as taken along the line 5 - 5 of FIG. 1 illustrating the membrane forming a concave bend when viewed from the inside of the hopper;
- the dispenser bottle is preferably secured to the collar by a rotatable connection formed by the engagement of a dispenser body circumferential lip with a collar groove; bottle of the present invention;
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 as taken along the line 6 - 6 in FIG. 5 illustrating the membrane in the closed position;
- FIG. 7 is a radial cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 1 illustrating the flow of consumable fluid from the bottle into the hopper; Lateral arrows show force resulting from a squeeze action on the bottle and the generally vertical arrows show the flow of consumable fluid; The flaps of the membrane are shown in the open position which allows consumable fluid and any entrained solid ingredients to move into the hopper;
- FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 7 illustrating that in one embodiment, the bottle may be maintained in a partially squeezed configuration after the membrane has closed and then tilted to pour out the contents from the hopper;
- FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of the hopper according to another preferred embodiment illustrating that at least some of the dispenser body is at least one of translucent and transparent, the at least some of the dispenser body being adapted to facilitate comparing an amount of salad dressing in the hopper with the plurality of markings;
- FIG. 10 is an upside down view of one embodiment of the dispenser showing the membrane having a concave shape, as viewed from the hopper, when in the closed position;
- the membrane can have first and second membrane sides;
- the first membrane side may have a lip positioned along the perimeter;
- a ring can be positioned against the second membrane side to secure the membrane within a channel in the tube of the hopper of the dispenser body;
- FIG. 11 is a front elevational view of one embodiment of the dispenser showing the membrane having a convex shape, as viewed from the hopper, when in the closed position;
- the membrane may have first and second membrane sides, the first membrane side can have a lip positioned along the perimeter;
- a ring may be positioned against the second membrane side to secure the membrane within a channel in the tube of the hopper of the dispenser body;
- the membrane can have any shape, curvature, or lack curvature when viewed in a fashion similar to that shown in FIG. 11 without departing from the scope of the present invention;
- FIG. 12 is front elevational view of a dispenser similar to that of FIG. 11 with a vent preferably between the hopper and an interior of the bottle to establish a fluid passageway therebetween separate from the membrane that may be adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing has been driven from the bottle, through the membrane, and into the hopper;
- the vent may include a check valve to allow air flow into the bottle only;
- FIG. 13 is front elevational view of a dispenser similar to that of FIG. 7 with a vent preferably between the hopper and an exterior of the bottle to establish a fluid passageway therebetween separate from the membrane that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing (or other consumable fluid) has been driven from the bottle, through the membrane, and into the hopper;
- the fluid passageway may extend from the bottle, through the dispenser body, and to the exterior of the both the dispenser and the bottle;
- the vent may include a check valve to allow air flow into the bottle only; While multiple vent configurations are disclosed in this application, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that that any type of vent can be used with the dispenser and/or dispenser and bottle of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention;
- Lateral arrows show force resulting from a squeeze action on the bottle and the generally vertical arrows show the flow of consumable fluid;
- the flaps of the membrane are shown in the open position which allows consumable fluid and any entrained solid ingredients to move into
- FIG. 14 is front elevational view of a dispenser similar to that of FIG. 13 with a vent preferably between the hopper and an exterior of the bottle to establish a fluid passageway therebetween separate from the membrane that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing (or other consumable fluid) has been driven from the bottle, through the membrane, and into the hopper; Lateral arrows show force resulting from an expansion action on the bottle and the downwardly pointed vertical arrows show the flow of air into the bottle via the vent to help prevent backflow of consumable fluid into the bottle from the hopper; The flaps of the membrane are shown in the closed position to secure consumable fluid and any entrained solid ingredients in the hopper; During the expansion action, the intake of air is possible due to the check valve being in an open configuration;
- FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the dispenser of the present invention. Protruding into the neck of the bottle is preferably a sheath that is part of the collar; The sheath is adapted to receive a part of the dispenser body therein;
- FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the dispenser of FIG. 15 with the lid removed;
- the hopper may define a first hole therethrough;
- FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser of FIG. 15 illustrating a collar engaged with the dispenser body and adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle;
- the collar may include a sheath for receiving at least part of the hopper;
- the sheath can define a second hole therethrough;
- the hopper is preferably moveable, relative to the collar, between a first hopper position (shown in FIG. 17 ), in which the first and second holes are not aligned and the salad dressing cannot pass between the bottle and the hopper, and a second hopper position (shown in FIGS. 20 and 22 ), in which the first and second holes are aligned to allow salad dressing to pass between the bottle and the hopper;
- the dispenser is adapted to allow dispensing of the salad dressing including the solid ingredients in the predetermined amount from the hopper;
- FIG. 18 is a second perspective of the dispenser of FIG. 15 showing the hopper rotated to allow flow of consumable fluid therein from the bottle;
- FIG. 19 is a top plan view of the dispenser of FIG. 18 ;
- FIG. 20 is a partial cross section view of the dispenser of FIG. 18 showing the hopper preferably rotatably seated in the collar sheath; The collar sheath defining a second hole that is aligned with the hopper's first hole to allow consumable beverage to flow therebetween; The generally vertical arrows show the upwards flow of consumable fluid from the bottle into the hopper;
- FIG. 21 is an exploded view of the hopper and collar of the dispenser of FIG. 15 ;
- the sheath of the collar preferably has a base that defines the second hole, a slot, and a bore;
- a pair of prongs may be located on the bottom of the hopper that are configured to engage the sheath bore;
- the prongs may be separated by a gap to allow the prongs to deform into closer proximity as the prongs beveled edges contact the edges of the sheath bore; This may result in the prongs moving together while the hopper is being inserted into the sheath and then snapping back into position once the hopper is fully inserted to form a rotatable connection between the hopper and the collar;
- a guide post can be located on the bottom of the hopper tube to engage the slot and guide the rotation of the hopper in the collar;
- FIG. 22 is a radial cross-sectional view of a dispenser similar to that of FIG. 15 with a vent attached; Lateral arrows show force resulting from a squeeze action on the bottle and the generally vertical arrows show the flow of consumable fluid through the generally aligned first and second holes; During the expelling of consumable fluid from the bottle the check valve is positioned in a closed position with the base of the vent shaft sealed by a portion of the sheath to prevent airflow therethrough; and
- FIG. 23 is a radial cross-sectional view of a dispenser similar to that of FIG. 15 with a vent attached; Lateral arrows show force resulting from an expansion action on the bottle and the downwardly pointed vertical arrows show the flow of air into the bottle via the vent to help prevent backflow of consumable fluid into the bottle from the hopper; The first and second holes are not aligned to secure consumable fluid and any entrained solid ingredients in the hopper; During the expansion action, the intake of air is possible due to bottom of the vent being aligned with an air hole in the sheath.
- the language “at least one of ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’,” as used in the claims and in corresponding portions of the specification, means “any group having at least one ‘A’; or any group having at least one ‘B’; or any group having at least one ‘C’; —and does require that a group have at least one of each of ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’.” Additionally, the words “a” and “one” are defined as including one or more of the referenced item unless specifically stated otherwise. The terminology includes the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.
- dispenser of the present invention is preferably adapted for use with thicker consumable fluids having large solid ingredients, such as salad dressings.
- any other known suitable connection mechanism such as a fastener, friction fit, snap fit, or the like can be used with any of the connections in the dispenser 30 without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- the dispenser body 32 and the collar 80 can be a single integral component.
- the dispenser 30 can be used with one of multiple interchangeable hoppers 34 if so desired.
- the dispenser 30 and its component parts are preferably formed from a sturdy, non-reactive, durable, food grade material, such as a suitable polymer.
- a sturdy, non-reactive, durable, food grade material such as a suitable polymer.
- the dispenser 30 and its various components can be formed from any materials suitable for use with consumable fluids.
- a dispenser 30 is preferably adapted for use with thick salad dressing (or other consumable fluids) 60 having solid ingredients therein.
- a dispenser body 32 can define a hopper 34 adapted to hold a predetermined amount of salad dressing 60 .
- a plurality of markings 116 may be located on the hopper 34 .
- the markings are preferably adapted to allow one of a plurality of different predetermined amounts of salad dressing 60 to be secured in the hopper 34 . It is preferred that the hopper hold a maximum of two tablespoons.
- the hopper can be sized to hold any amount(s) of consumable fluid without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- a lid 78 may be engaged over the dispenser hopper 34 .
- the lid is preferably secured to a shoulder 44 formed proximate to the top of the dispenser body 32 .
- At least some 120 of the dispenser body 32 is at least one of translucent and transparent.
- the at least some 120 of the dispenser body 32 may be adapted to facilitate comparing an amount of salad dressing 60 in the hopper with the plurality of markings 116 .
- a collar 80 may be engaged with the dispenser body 32 and can be adapted to secure the dispenser 30 to a bottle 58 .
- the collar 80 preferably has first and second collar ends 88 A, 88 B. At least a portion of the hopper 34 can be located on the first collar end 88 A so that the at least a portion of the hopper 34 is located outside of the bottle 58 when the dispenser 30 is attached thereto.
- the hopper may further comprise a tube 52 that extends through the collar 80 and is adapted to be located within the bottle 58 when the dispenser 30 is attached thereto.
- the dispenser body 32 can be rotatably connected to the collar 80 and can be adapted to be rotatable while the collar 80 is secured to the bottle 58 . It is preferred that the collar tube 52 is inserted through an annular ring section 90 of the collar 80 .
- the dispenser body may have a circumferential lip 86 that extends downwardly from below the outwardly flared section 48 of the dispenser.
- the circumferential lip 86 may engage a groove 84 in the upper portion of the collar 80 .
- a membrane 92 is preferably adapted to allow flow therethrough from inside 70 the 58 bottle to the hopper 34 , but not from the hopper 34 to the bottle 58 , of salad dressing 60 (or other consumable fluid) having solid ingredients 62 with a largest dimension 66 of up to at least one inch. It is preferred that the largest dimension 66 be anywhere from one sixty fourth of an inch and one inch. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the dispenser can be configured to accommodate solid ingredients 62 of any size without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- the membrane 92 is adapted to allow flow therethrough from inside 70 the 58 bottle to the hopper 34 , but not from the hopper 34 to the bottle 58 , of salad dressing 60 (or other consumable fluid) having solid ingredients 62 with a largest dimension 66 of up to one quarter of an inch while allowing the solid ingredients 62 to transport through the membrane 92 and into the hopper 34 .
- the membrane 92 may be configured to accommodate solid ingredients 62 having a largest dimension 66 of up to three eighths of an inch.
- the membrane 92 may be configured to accommodate solid ingredients 62 having a largest dimension 66 of up to half an inch.
- the membrane 92 may be configured to accommodate solid ingredients 62 having a largest dimension 66 of up to three quarters of an inch.
- the hopper 34 can have a first hopper end 36 A adapted to be located distally 114 from the bottle 58 .
- the first hopper end 36 A may have a generally oval shape 38 .
- the dispenser 30 preferably flaring generally conically outwardly 48 from the bottle 58 to create at least a portion of a hand grip 46 adapted to facilitate pouring 58 salad dressing (shown in FIG. 8 ) from the hopper 34 .
- the outward flare 48 allows a user to place a portion of the conical section between a thumb and adjacent finger to rest on a side of the hand opposite from the palm. This significantly simplifies pouring in an ergonomic fashion. While a preferred configuration for the portion of the handle 46 is shown, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the handle portion 46 can have any shape without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- the membrane 92 preferably has first and second membrane sides 102 A, 102 B.
- the first membrane side 102 A may have a lip 104 positioned along the perimeter.
- a ring 106 can be positioned against the second membrane side 102 B to secure the membrane 92 within a channel 54 defined by an inner surface 56 of the tube 52 of the hopper 34 of the dispenser body 32 .
- the dispenser 30 is preferably adapted to allow dispensing of the salad dressing 60 including large solid ingredients in the predetermined amount from the hopper.
- the dispenser may include a membrane 92 having a generally concave shape 96 , as viewed from the hopper, when in the closed position.
- the hopper 34 may have at least some 120 of the dispenser body 32 formed by at least one of translucent and transparent material.
- a vent 124 may be located between the hopper 34 and an interior 70 of the bottle 58 to establish a fluid passageway 126 therebetween separate from the membrane 92 that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing 60 has been driven from the bottle 58 , through the membrane 92 , and into the hopper 34 .
- the vent 124 may include a check valve 128 .
- the vent 124 may be located between the bottle 58 and an exterior of the bottle to establish a fluid passageway 126 therebetween separate from the membrane 92 .
- the vent 124 is preferably between the hopper 34 and an exterior of the bottle to establish a fluid passageway 126 therebetween separate from the membrane that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing 60 (or other consumable fluid) has been driven from the bottle. While multiple vent configurations are disclosed in this application, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that that any type of vent can be used with the dispenser and/or dispenser and bottle of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention. Lateral arrows 130 show force resulting from a squeeze action on the bottle and the generally vertical arrows 132 show the flow of consumable fluid 60 .
- the flaps 100 of the membrane 92 are shown in the open position which preferably allows consumable fluid 60 and any entrained solid ingredients 62 to move into the hopper 34 .
- the check valve 128 is positioned in a closed position 138 that prevents airflow therethrough.
- a vent 124 may extend from the bottle through the hopper to exterior of the bottle and dispenser to establish a fluid passageway 126 therebetween separate from the membrane 92 that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing (or other consumable fluid) 60 has been driven from the bottle.
- Lateral arrows 134 show force resulting from an expansion action on the bottle and the downwardly pointed vertical arrows 136 show the flow of air into the bottle via the vent 124 to help prevent backflow of consumable fluid 60 into the bottle 58 from the hopper 34 .
- the flaps 100 of the membrane 92 are shown in the closed position to secure consumable fluid 60 and any entrained solid ingredients 62 in the hopper 34 .
- the check valve 128 being in an open configuration 140 .
- the dispenser body 30 can define a hopper 34 adapted to hold a predetermined amount of salad dressing 60 .
- the hopper preferably defines a first hole 144 therethrough.
- a collar 80 may be engaged with the dispenser body 32 and adapted to secure the dispenser 30 to a bottle 58 .
- the collar can include a sheath 142 for receiving at least part of the hopper 34 .
- the sheath 142 preferably defines a second hole 146 therethrough.
- the sheath can also define a bore 158 and the hopper may include a pair of prongs 152 adapted for insertion into the bore 158 to secure the hopper 34 to the sheath 142 while still allowing rotation therebetween.
- the gap 156 between the prongs 152 allows the prongs 152 to displace toward each other when their beveled edges 154 contact the edges of the bore 158 during insertion.
- the prong 152 ends move outwardly to form a rotatable connection 122 between the hopper 34 and the collar 80 .
- a vent 124 may be included that is adapted to let air enter the bottle 58 when the hopper is in the first hopper position.
- lateral arrows 130 show force resulting from a squeeze action on the bottle 58 and the generally vertical arrows 132 show the flow of consumable fluid 60 through the generally aligned first and second holes 144 , 146 .
- the vent 124 is positioned in a closed position with the base of the vent shaft sealed by a portion of the sheath 142 to prevent airflow therethrough.
- lateral arrows 134 show force resulting from an expansion action on the bottle 58 and the downwardly pointed vertical arrows 136 show the flow of air into the bottle 58 via the vent 124 to help prevent backflow of consumable fluid 60 into the bottle 58 from the hopper 34 .
- the first and second holes 144 , 146 are not aligned which then results in securing the consumable fluid 60 and any entrained solid ingredients 62 in the hopper 34 .
- the intake of air is possible due to bottom of the vent 124 being aligned with an air hole 160 in the sheath 142 .
Abstract
Description
- The present invention is generally directed to dispensers and, more specifically, to a dispenser adapted for use with thick consumable fluids that may include solid ingredients too large for use with conventional dispensers.
- Typical dispensers are used to pour alcohol and other low viscosity fluids from bottles. However, thick fluids tend not to work with conventional dispensers as the fluid tends to clog portions of the dispenser mechanism. This problem is further exacerbated when the fluid has larger solid particles therein that tend to completely obstruct fluid flow through conventional dispensers.
- It may be advantageous to provide a dispenser that is preferably adapted to be used with thicker fluids, that can preferably transfer fluids containing large solid particles; that is easy to use; and that preferably is ergonomically designed.
- Briefly speaking, one preferred embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with thick salad dressing having solid ingredients therein. The dispenser includes a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of salad dressing. A collar is engaged with the dispenser body and is adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle. A membrane is located on the dispenser body and is positioned to be inside of the bottle when the collar is secured to the bottle. The membrane is adapted to allow flow therethrough from the bottle to the hopper, but not from the hopper to the bottle, of salad dressing having solid ingredients with a largest dimension of up to at least one quarter of an inch while allowing the solid ingredients to transport through the membrane and into the hopper. The dispenser is adapted to allow dispensing of the salad dressing in the predetermined amount from the hopper.
- In a separate aspect, one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with thick salad dressing having solid ingredients therein. The dispenser including a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of salad dressing. The hopper having a first hopper end adapted to be located distally from the bottle. The first hopper end having a generally oval shape. The dispenser flaring generally conically outwardly from the bottle to create at least a portion of a hand grip adapted to facilitate pouring salad dressing from the hopper. A collar is engaged with the dispenser body and adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle. The collar has first and second collar ends. At least a portion of the hopper is located on the first collar end so that the at least a portion of the hopper is located outside of the bottle when the dispenser is attached thereto. The hopper further comprises a tube that extends through the collar and is adapted to be located within the bottle when the dispenser is attached thereto. The tube has an inner surface defining a channel. A membrane is located on the dispenser body and is positioned to be inside of the bottle when the collar is secured to the bottle. The membrane is adapted to allow flow therethrough from the bottle to the hopper, but not from the hopper to the bottle, of salad dressing having solid ingredients with a largest dimension of up to at least one quarter of an inch while allowing the solid ingredients to transport through the membrane and into the hopper. The membrane, when in a closed position, is generally convex such that an apex extends inside the hopper. The membrane has a generally circular shape formed by a plurality flaps joined together to form a circumference of the membrane. The dispenser is adapted to allow dispensing of the salad dressing including the solid ingredients in the predetermined amount from the hopper.
- In another aspect, the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with thick consumable fluids having solid ingredients therein. The dispenser includes a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of consumable fluid. The hopper has a first hopper end adapted to be located distally from the bottle. The first hopper end having a generally oval shape. A collar is engaged with the dispenser body and is adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle. The collar has first and second collar ends. At least a portion of the hopper is located on the first collar end so that the at least a portion of the hopper is located outside of the bottle when the dispenser is attached thereto. The hopper further comprises a tube that extends through the collar and is adapted to be located within the bottle when the dispenser is attached thereto. The dispenser body flares generally conically outwardly from the bottle to create at least a portion of a hand grip adapted to facilitate pouring salad dressing from the hopper. The tube defines a channel along an inner surface. A membrane is located on the dispenser body and is positioned to be inside of the bottle when the collar is secured to the bottle. The membrane is adapted to allow flow therethrough from the bottle to the hopper, but not from the hopper to the bottle, of consumable fluid having solid ingredients with a largest dimension of up to at least one quarter of an inch while allowing the solid ingredients to transport through the membrane and into the hopper. The membrane, when in a closed position, is generally convex such that an apex extends inside the hopper. The membrane has first and second membrane sides. The first membrane side having a lip positioned along the perimeter.
- In another aspect, one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with thick salad dressing having solid ingredients therein. The dispenser includes a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of salad dressing. The hopper defines a first hole therethrough. A collar is engaged with the dispenser body and is adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle. The collar includes a sheath for receiving at least part of the hopper. The sheath defining a second hole therethrough. The hopper is moveable, relative to the collar, between a first hopper position, in which the first and second holes are not aligned and the salad dressing cannot pass between the bottle and the hopper, and a second hopper position, in which the first and second holes are aligned to allow salad dressing to pass between the bottle and the hopper. The dispenser is adapted to allow dispensing of the salad dressing including the solid ingredients in the predetermined amount from the hopper. The dispenser is preferably not suitable for preventing the passage of alcoholic beverages therethrough from the hopper back to the bottle when an attached bottle is shaken.
- In a separate aspect, one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with consumable fluid which may have solid ingredients therein. The dispenser includes a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of consumable fluid. A collar is engaged with the dispenser body and is adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle. A membrane is located on the dispenser body and is positioned to be inside
- In another aspect, one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a dispenser adapted for use with consumable fluid. The dispenser includes a dispenser body defining a hopper adapted to hold a predetermined amount of consumable fluid. The hopper defines a first hole therethrough. A collar is engaged with the dispenser body and is adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle. The collar includes a sheath for receiving at least part of the hopper. The sheath defining a second hole therethrough. The hopper is moveable, relative to the collar, between a first hopper position, in which the first and second holes are not aligned and the consumable fluid cannot pass between the bottle and the hopper, and a second hopper position, in which the first and second holes are aligned to allow consumable fluid to pass between the bottle and the hopper. The dispenser is adapted to allow dispensing of consumable fluid in the predetermined amount from the hopper.
- The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For purposes of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings, embodiments which are presently preferred. It is understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dispenser according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; The dispenser includes a dispenser body that defines a hopper which preferably flares generally outwardly from the top of the bottle; The dispenser body is adapted to be preferably secured to the bottle via a collar; A lid may be attached to the top of the hopper via a snap fit connection of the like; -
FIG. 1A is a schematic showing an exemplary solid ingredient which may be transported from a bottle, into the hopper of the dispenser, and later dispensed as part of a predetermined amount of consumable fluid; Various dimensions of the solid ingredient are shown as well as the largest dimension; While one exemplary shape is shown, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the solid ingredient can have any shape and/or configuration without departing from the scope of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is an enlarged front elevational view of the dispenser ofFIG. 1 illustrating the hopper being configured to include a tube that preferably extends into the bottle; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the dispenser ofFIG. 1 with the lid removed; the inner surface of the hopper preferably includes markings to allow one of multiple different predetermined amounts of consumable fluid to be dispensed from the hopper; The top of the hopper preferably has a generally oval shape which may be formed by two short strait segments connected by two arcuate segments; those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the mouth of the hopper can have any shape without departing from the scope of the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the dispenser ofFIG. 1 ; The tube of the hopper preferably defines a channel which receives the membrane; The membrane can be secured in position by a ring; Alternatively, the membrane may be located on the dispenser body and positioned to be inside of the bottle when the collar is secured to the bottle; The membrane can be adapted to allow flow therethrough from the bottle to the hopper, but not from the hopper to the bottle, of consumable fluid having solid ingredients with a largest dimension of up to anywhere from one sixty fourth of an inch to one inch while allowing the solid ingredients to transport through the membrane and into the hopper; those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the membrane can be configured to operate with solid ingredients of any size without departing from the scope of the present invention; the membrane, when in a closed position, is preferably generally convex such that an apex extends inside the hopper; The membrane can have first and second membrane sides; The first membrane side may have a lip positioned along the perimeter; The membrane may have a generally circular shape formed by a plurality flaps joined together to form a circumference of the membrane; -
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a the dispenser ofFIG. 1 as taken along the line 5-5 ofFIG. 1 illustrating the membrane forming a concave bend when viewed from the inside of the hopper; The dispenser bottle is preferably secured to the collar by a rotatable connection formed by the engagement of a dispenser body circumferential lip with a collar groove; bottle of the present invention; -
FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser ofFIG. 1 as taken along the line 6-6 inFIG. 5 illustrating the membrane in the closed position; -
FIG. 7 is a radial cross-sectional view of the dispenser ofFIG. 1 illustrating the flow of consumable fluid from the bottle into the hopper; Lateral arrows show force resulting from a squeeze action on the bottle and the generally vertical arrows show the flow of consumable fluid; The flaps of the membrane are shown in the open position which allows consumable fluid and any entrained solid ingredients to move into the hopper; -
FIG. 8 is a view similar toFIG. 7 illustrating that in one embodiment, the bottle may be maintained in a partially squeezed configuration after the membrane has closed and then tilted to pour out the contents from the hopper; -
FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of the hopper according to another preferred embodiment illustrating that at least some of the dispenser body is at least one of translucent and transparent, the at least some of the dispenser body being adapted to facilitate comparing an amount of salad dressing in the hopper with the plurality of markings; -
FIG. 10 is an upside down view of one embodiment of the dispenser showing the membrane having a concave shape, as viewed from the hopper, when in the closed position; The membrane can have first and second membrane sides; The first membrane side may have a lip positioned along the perimeter; A ring can be positioned against the second membrane side to secure the membrane within a channel in the tube of the hopper of the dispenser body; -
FIG. 11 is a front elevational view of one embodiment of the dispenser showing the membrane having a convex shape, as viewed from the hopper, when in the closed position; The membrane may have first and second membrane sides, the first membrane side can have a lip positioned along the perimeter; A ring may be positioned against the second membrane side to secure the membrane within a channel in the tube of the hopper of the dispenser body; those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the membrane can have any shape, curvature, or lack curvature when viewed in a fashion similar to that shown inFIG. 11 without departing from the scope of the present invention; -
FIG. 12 is front elevational view of a dispenser similar to that ofFIG. 11 with a vent preferably between the hopper and an interior of the bottle to establish a fluid passageway therebetween separate from the membrane that may be adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing has been driven from the bottle, through the membrane, and into the hopper; The vent may include a check valve to allow air flow into the bottle only; -
FIG. 13 is front elevational view of a dispenser similar to that ofFIG. 7 with a vent preferably between the hopper and an exterior of the bottle to establish a fluid passageway therebetween separate from the membrane that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing (or other consumable fluid) has been driven from the bottle, through the membrane, and into the hopper; The fluid passageway may extend from the bottle, through the dispenser body, and to the exterior of the both the dispenser and the bottle; The vent may include a check valve to allow air flow into the bottle only; While multiple vent configurations are disclosed in this application, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that that any type of vent can be used with the dispenser and/or dispenser and bottle of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention; Lateral arrows show force resulting from a squeeze action on the bottle and the generally vertical arrows show the flow of consumable fluid; The flaps of the membrane are shown in the open position which allows consumable fluid and any entrained solid ingredients to move into the hopper; During the expelling of consumable fluid from the bottle the check valve is positioned in a closed position that prevents airflow therethrough; -
FIG. 14 is front elevational view of a dispenser similar to that ofFIG. 13 with a vent preferably between the hopper and an exterior of the bottle to establish a fluid passageway therebetween separate from the membrane that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing (or other consumable fluid) has been driven from the bottle, through the membrane, and into the hopper; Lateral arrows show force resulting from an expansion action on the bottle and the downwardly pointed vertical arrows show the flow of air into the bottle via the vent to help prevent backflow of consumable fluid into the bottle from the hopper; The flaps of the membrane are shown in the closed position to secure consumable fluid and any entrained solid ingredients in the hopper; During the expansion action, the intake of air is possible due to the check valve being in an open configuration; -
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of the dispenser of the present invention; Protruding into the neck of the bottle is preferably a sheath that is part of the collar; The sheath is adapted to receive a part of the dispenser body therein; -
FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the dispenser ofFIG. 15 with the lid removed; The hopper may define a first hole therethrough; -
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser ofFIG. 15 illustrating a collar engaged with the dispenser body and adapted to secure the dispenser to a bottle; The collar may include a sheath for receiving at least part of the hopper; The sheath can define a second hole therethrough; The hopper is preferably moveable, relative to the collar, between a first hopper position (shown inFIG. 17 ), in which the first and second holes are not aligned and the salad dressing cannot pass between the bottle and the hopper, and a second hopper position (shown inFIGS. 20 and 22 ), in which the first and second holes are aligned to allow salad dressing to pass between the bottle and the hopper; The dispenser is adapted to allow dispensing of the salad dressing including the solid ingredients in the predetermined amount from the hopper; -
FIG. 18 is a second perspective of the dispenser ofFIG. 15 showing the hopper rotated to allow flow of consumable fluid therein from the bottle; -
FIG. 19 is a top plan view of the dispenser ofFIG. 18 ; -
FIG. 20 is a partial cross section view of the dispenser ofFIG. 18 showing the hopper preferably rotatably seated in the collar sheath; The collar sheath defining a second hole that is aligned with the hopper's first hole to allow consumable beverage to flow therebetween; The generally vertical arrows show the upwards flow of consumable fluid from the bottle into the hopper; -
FIG. 21 is an exploded view of the hopper and collar of the dispenser ofFIG. 15 ; The sheath of the collar preferably has a base that defines the second hole, a slot, and a bore; A pair of prongs may be located on the bottom of the hopper that are configured to engage the sheath bore; The prongs may be separated by a gap to allow the prongs to deform into closer proximity as the prongs beveled edges contact the edges of the sheath bore; This may result in the prongs moving together while the hopper is being inserted into the sheath and then snapping back into position once the hopper is fully inserted to form a rotatable connection between the hopper and the collar; A guide post can be located on the bottom of the hopper tube to engage the slot and guide the rotation of the hopper in the collar; -
FIG. 22 , is a radial cross-sectional view of a dispenser similar to that ofFIG. 15 with a vent attached; Lateral arrows show force resulting from a squeeze action on the bottle and the generally vertical arrows show the flow of consumable fluid through the generally aligned first and second holes; During the expelling of consumable fluid from the bottle the check valve is positioned in a closed position with the base of the vent shaft sealed by a portion of the sheath to prevent airflow therethrough; and -
FIG. 23 , is a radial cross-sectional view of a dispenser similar to that ofFIG. 15 with a vent attached; Lateral arrows show force resulting from an expansion action on the bottle and the downwardly pointed vertical arrows show the flow of air into the bottle via the vent to help prevent backflow of consumable fluid into the bottle from the hopper; The first and second holes are not aligned to secure consumable fluid and any entrained solid ingredients in the hopper; During the expansion action, the intake of air is possible due to bottom of the vent being aligned with an air hole in the sheath. - Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “right,” “left,” “upper,” and “lower” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the system for use with a consumable beverage and designated parts thereof. The term “consumable fluid”, as used in the claims and the relevant portions means, “any fluid suited for consumption such as yogurt, salad dressing, jam, toppings, etc.” It is understood that when used in the “Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment” section, the term “salad dressing” means “salad dressing or other consumable fluid”. The language “at least one of ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’,” as used in the claims and in corresponding portions of the specification, means “any group having at least one ‘A’; or any group having at least one ‘B’; or any group having at least one ‘C’; —and does require that a group have at least one of each of ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’.” Additionally, the words “a” and “one” are defined as including one or more of the referenced item unless specifically stated otherwise. The terminology includes the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.
- Referring to
FIGS. 1-23 , wherein like numerals indicate like elements throughout, preferred embodiments of a dispenser are shown and generally designated as 30. Briefly stated, the dispenser of the present invention is preferably adapted for use with thicker consumable fluids having large solid ingredients, such as salad dressings. - While the drawings show threaded or snap fit connections, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any other known suitable connection mechanism, such as a fastener, friction fit, snap fit, or the like can be used with any of the connections in the
dispenser 30 without departing from the scope of the present invention. Alternatively, thedispenser body 32 and thecollar 80 can be a single integral component. Additionally, thedispenser 30 can be used with one of multipleinterchangeable hoppers 34 if so desired. - The
dispenser 30 and its component parts are preferably formed from a sturdy, non-reactive, durable, food grade material, such as a suitable polymer. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that thedispenser 30 and its various components can be formed from any materials suitable for use with consumable fluids. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 4 , adispenser 30 is preferably adapted for use with thick salad dressing (or other consumable fluids) 60 having solid ingredients therein. Referring toFIG. 3 , adispenser body 32 can define ahopper 34 adapted to hold a predetermined amount ofsalad dressing 60. A plurality ofmarkings 116 may be located on thehopper 34. The markings are preferably adapted to allow one of a plurality of different predetermined amounts ofsalad dressing 60 to be secured in thehopper 34. It is preferred that the hopper hold a maximum of two tablespoons. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the hopper can be sized to hold any amount(s) of consumable fluid without departing from the scope of the present invention. - Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 3 , alid 78 may be engaged over thedispenser hopper 34. The lid is preferably secured to ashoulder 44 formed proximate to the top of thedispenser body 32. - Referring to
FIG. 7 , it is preferred, but not necessary, that at least some 120 of thedispenser body 32 is at least one of translucent and transparent. The at least some 120 of thedispenser body 32 may be adapted to facilitate comparing an amount ofsalad dressing 60 in the hopper with the plurality ofmarkings 116. - Referring to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , the top of thehopper 34 preferably has a generallyoval shape 38. The oval shape can be formed by shortstraight segments 40 of the upper hopper edge connected by twoarcuate segments 42 of the upper hopper edge. those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the mouth of thehopper 34 can have any shape without departing from the scope of the present invention. - Referring to
FIGS. 2 and 5 , acollar 80 may be engaged with thedispenser body 32 and can be adapted to secure thedispenser 30 to abottle 58. Thecollar 80 preferably has first and second collar ends 88A, 88B. At least a portion of thehopper 34 can be located on thefirst collar end 88A so that the at least a portion of thehopper 34 is located outside of thebottle 58 when thedispenser 30 is attached thereto. The hopper may further comprise atube 52 that extends through thecollar 80 and is adapted to be located within thebottle 58 when thedispenser 30 is attached thereto. Thedispenser body 32 can be rotatably connected to thecollar 80 and can be adapted to be rotatable while thecollar 80 is secured to thebottle 58. It is preferred that thecollar tube 52 is inserted through anannular ring section 90 of thecollar 80. - Referring to
FIGS. 4 and 5 the dispenser body may have acircumferential lip 86 that extends downwardly from below the outwardly flaredsection 48 of the dispenser. thecircumferential lip 86 may engage agroove 84 in the upper portion of thecollar 80. - Referring to
FIGS. 4 and 6 , amembrane 92 may be located on thedispenser body 32 and positioned to be inside of thebottle 58 when thecollar 80 is secured to thebottle 58. Referring toFIG. 8 the connection between thecollar 80 and thebottle 58 is preferably threaded. Referring toFIG. 4 , at least onethread 74 on the bottle is preferably configured to engage at least onecollar thread 82. It is preferred that when thecollar 80 is engaged with thebottle 58, that thecollar 80 is positioned over theupper edge 72 of thebottle mouth 68 with a portion of thehopper 34 possibly extending into theneck 76 of thebottle 58. - Referring to
FIGS. 4 , 6, and 7, amembrane 92 is preferably adapted to allow flow therethrough from inside 70 the 58 bottle to thehopper 34, but not from thehopper 34 to thebottle 58, of salad dressing 60 (or other consumable fluid) havingsolid ingredients 62 with alargest dimension 66 of up to at least one inch. It is preferred that thelargest dimension 66 be anywhere from one sixty fourth of an inch and one inch. However, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the dispenser can be configured to accommodatesolid ingredients 62 of any size without departing from the scope of the present invention. - Referring to
FIG. 1A , one exemplary solid ingredient is shown havingmultiple dimensions 64 and onelargest dimension 66. While one preferred shape is shown, any shape or configuration ofsolid ingredient 62 can be used with thedispenser 30 of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention. - It is preferred that the
membrane 92 is adapted to allow flow therethrough from inside 70 the 58 bottle to thehopper 34, but not from thehopper 34 to thebottle 58, of salad dressing 60 (or other consumable fluid) havingsolid ingredients 62 with alargest dimension 66 of up to one quarter of an inch while allowing thesolid ingredients 62 to transport through themembrane 92 and into thehopper 34. Alternatively, themembrane 92 may be configured to accommodatesolid ingredients 62 having alargest dimension 66 of up to three eighths of an inch. In another embodiment, themembrane 92 may be configured to accommodatesolid ingredients 62 having alargest dimension 66 of up to half an inch. Alternatively still, themembrane 92 may be configured to accommodatesolid ingredients 62 having alargest dimension 66 of up to three quarters of an inch. - Referring to
FIGS. 11 and 14 , themembrane 92, when in a closed position (shown inFIGS. 11 , 12, and 14), is generally convex 94 such that an apex 108 extends inside thehopper 34. Themembrane 92 is adapted to allowsolid ingredients 62 entrained insalad dressing 60 to pass therethrough and into thehopper 34. Referring toFIG. 4 , themembrane 92 preferably has a generallycircular shape 98 formed by a plurality flaps 100 joined together to form acircumference 112 of themembrane 92. - Referring to
FIGS. 3 and 4 , thehopper 34 can have afirst hopper end 36A adapted to be located distally 114 from thebottle 58. Thefirst hopper end 36A may have a generallyoval shape 38. Thedispenser 30 preferably flaring generally conically outwardly 48 from thebottle 58 to create at least a portion of ahand grip 46 adapted to facilitate pouring 58 salad dressing (shown inFIG. 8 ) from thehopper 34. It is preferred that theoutward flare 48 allows a user to place a portion of the conical section between a thumb and adjacent finger to rest on a side of the hand opposite from the palm. This significantly simplifies pouring in an ergonomic fashion. while a preferred configuration for the portion of thehandle 46 is shown, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that thehandle portion 46 can have any shape without departing from the scope of the present invention. - Referring to
FIGS. 7 and 13 , the membrane 19 may be adapted to allowsolid ingredients 62 entrained insalad dressing 60 to pass therethrough and into thehopper 34. At least one embodiment of themembrane 92 is preferably not suitable for preventing the passage of alcoholic beverages therethrough from thehopper 34 back to thebottle 58. This can result in alcohol flowing back through themembrane 92 into thebottle 58 when the liquid is allowed to stand or when the dispenser and/or bottle are moved. - Referring to
FIGS. 4 and 12 , themembrane 92 preferably has first and second membrane sides 102A, 102B. Thefirst membrane side 102A may have alip 104 positioned along the perimeter. Aring 106 can be positioned against thesecond membrane side 102B to secure themembrane 92 within achannel 54 defined by aninner surface 56 of thetube 52 of thehopper 34 of thedispenser body 32. Thedispenser 30 is preferably adapted to allow dispensing of thesalad dressing 60 including large solid ingredients in the predetermined amount from the hopper. Referring toFIG. 10 , the dispenser may include amembrane 92 having a generallyconcave shape 96, as viewed from the hopper, when in the closed position. Referring toFIG. 9 , thehopper 34 may have at least some 120 of thedispenser body 32 formed by at least one of translucent and transparent material. - Referring to
FIGS. 13 and 14 , avent 124 may be located between thehopper 34 and an interior 70 of thebottle 58 to establish afluid passageway 126 therebetween separate from themembrane 92 that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle aftersalad dressing 60 has been driven from thebottle 58, through themembrane 92, and into thehopper 34. Thevent 124 may include acheck valve 128. Alternatively, thevent 124 may be located between thebottle 58 and an exterior of the bottle to establish afluid passageway 126 therebetween separate from themembrane 92. - Referring specifically to
FIG. 13 , thevent 124 is preferably between thehopper 34 and an exterior of the bottle to establish afluid passageway 126 therebetween separate from the membrane that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing 60 (or other consumable fluid) has been driven from the bottle. While multiple vent configurations are disclosed in this application, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that that any type of vent can be used with the dispenser and/or dispenser and bottle of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention.Lateral arrows 130 show force resulting from a squeeze action on the bottle and the generallyvertical arrows 132 show the flow ofconsumable fluid 60. Theflaps 100 of themembrane 92 are shown in the open position which preferably allowsconsumable fluid 60 and any entrainedsolid ingredients 62 to move into thehopper 34. During the expelling of consumable fluid 60 from thebottle 58 thecheck valve 128 is positioned in aclosed position 138 that prevents airflow therethrough. - Referring specifically to
FIG. 14 , avent 124 may extend from the bottle through the hopper to exterior of the bottle and dispenser to establish afluid passageway 126 therebetween separate from themembrane 92 that is adapted to allow air to enter the bottle after salad dressing (or other consumable fluid) 60 has been driven from the bottle.Lateral arrows 134 show force resulting from an expansion action on the bottle and the downwardly pointedvertical arrows 136 show the flow of air into the bottle via thevent 124 to help prevent backflow ofconsumable fluid 60 into thebottle 58 from thehopper 34. Theflaps 100 of themembrane 92 are shown in the closed position to secureconsumable fluid 60 and any entrainedsolid ingredients 62 in thehopper 34. During the expansion action, the intake of air is possible due to thecheck valve 128 being in anopen configuration 140. - Referring to
FIGS. 15-23 , anther embodiment of thedispenser 30 is shown and adapted for use with thick salad dressing (or consumable fluid) 60 which may havesolid ingredients 62 therein. Thedispenser body 30 can define ahopper 34 adapted to hold a predetermined amount ofsalad dressing 60. The hopper preferably defines afirst hole 144 therethrough. - Referring to
FIGS. 17 and 21 , acollar 80 may be engaged with thedispenser body 32 and adapted to secure thedispenser 30 to abottle 58. The collar can include asheath 142 for receiving at least part of thehopper 34. Thesheath 142 preferably defines asecond hole 146 therethrough. The sheath can also define abore 158 and the hopper may include a pair ofprongs 152 adapted for insertion into thebore 158 to secure thehopper 34 to thesheath 142 while still allowing rotation therebetween. Thegap 156 between theprongs 152 allows theprongs 152 to displace toward each other when theirbeveled edges 154 contact the edges of thebore 158 during insertion. Once inserted past thesheath 142, theprong 152 ends move outwardly to form arotatable connection 122 between thehopper 34 and thecollar 80. - Referring to
FIGS. 16 and 20 , the first andsecond holes FIG. 23 ) of thebottle 58. Thehopper 34 is preferably adapted to rotate generally about thelongitudinal axis 164 of the bottle when thehopper 34 is moved between the first and second positions. Aguide post 150 can be located on the hopper and may be adapted to engage aslot 148 defined by thesheath 142. The combination of theslot 148 and guidepost 150 may be adapted to guide the rotation of thehopper 34. - It is preferred that the
hopper 34 is moveable, relative to thecollar 80, between a first hopper position (shown inFIGS. 16 , 17, and 23), in which the first andsecond holes salad dressing 60 cannot pass between thebottle 58 and thehopper 34, and a second hopper position (shown inFIGS. 19 , 20, and 22), in which the first andsecond holes solid ingredients 62 in the predetermined amount from thehopper 34. In some embodiments, the dispenser may not be suitable for preventing the passage of alcoholic beverages therethrough from thehopper 34 back to thebottle 58 when the bottle is shaken. - Referring to
FIGS. 22 and 23 , avent 124 may be included that is adapted to let air enter thebottle 58 when the hopper is in the first hopper position. Referring specifically toFIG. 22 ,lateral arrows 130 show force resulting from a squeeze action on thebottle 58 and the generallyvertical arrows 132 show the flow ofconsumable fluid 60 through the generally aligned first andsecond holes vent 124 is positioned in a closed position with the base of the vent shaft sealed by a portion of thesheath 142 to prevent airflow therethrough. - Referring specifically to
FIG. 23 ,lateral arrows 134 show force resulting from an expansion action on thebottle 58 and the downwardly pointedvertical arrows 136 show the flow of air into thebottle 58 via thevent 124 to help prevent backflow ofconsumable fluid 60 into thebottle 58 from thehopper 34. The first andsecond holes consumable fluid 60 and any entrainedsolid ingredients 62 in thehopper 34. During the expansion action of the bottle, the intake of air is possible due to bottom of thevent 124 being aligned with anair hole 160 in thesheath 142. - It is recognized by those skilled in the art, that changes may be made to the above described embodiment of the invention without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. For example, any of the connections between components of the dispenser described above can be interchanged with any one of a twist-lock connection, a friction fit, a snap fit, a ball and detent, an interlock, a magnetic connection, a threaded connection, or any other suitable connection without departing from the scope of the present invention. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but is intended to cover to all modifications which are within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and the drawings.
Claims (21)
Priority Applications (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US12/484,481 US20100314418A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2009-06-15 | Dispenser Adapted To Engage A Bottle And For Use With Consumable Fluid Having Solid Ingredients |
PCT/US2010/038690 WO2010148000A2 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2010-06-15 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and for use with consumable fluid having solid ingredients |
CA2765191A CA2765191A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2010-06-15 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and for use with consumable fluid having solid ingredients |
US13/667,771 US20130056498A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2012-11-02 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and adapted for use with thick consumable fluid having solid ingredients therein |
US14/199,597 US8944293B2 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2014-03-06 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and adapted for use with thick consumable fluid having solid ingredients therein |
US14/613,275 US20150314926A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2015-02-03 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and for use with consumable fluid having solid ingredients |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/484,481 US20100314418A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2009-06-15 | Dispenser Adapted To Engage A Bottle And For Use With Consumable Fluid Having Solid Ingredients |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/667,771 Division US20130056498A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2012-11-02 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and adapted for use with thick consumable fluid having solid ingredients therein |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20100314418A1 true US20100314418A1 (en) | 2010-12-16 |
Family
ID=43305557
Family Applications (4)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/484,481 Abandoned US20100314418A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2009-06-15 | Dispenser Adapted To Engage A Bottle And For Use With Consumable Fluid Having Solid Ingredients |
US13/667,771 Abandoned US20130056498A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2012-11-02 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and adapted for use with thick consumable fluid having solid ingredients therein |
US14/199,597 Active US8944293B2 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2014-03-06 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and adapted for use with thick consumable fluid having solid ingredients therein |
US14/613,275 Abandoned US20150314926A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2015-02-03 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and for use with consumable fluid having solid ingredients |
Family Applications After (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/667,771 Abandoned US20130056498A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2012-11-02 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and adapted for use with thick consumable fluid having solid ingredients therein |
US14/199,597 Active US8944293B2 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2014-03-06 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and adapted for use with thick consumable fluid having solid ingredients therein |
US14/613,275 Abandoned US20150314926A1 (en) | 2009-06-15 | 2015-02-03 | Dispenser adapted to engage a bottle and for use with consumable fluid having solid ingredients |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (4) | US20100314418A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2765191A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2010148000A2 (en) |
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US20130087471A1 (en) * | 2010-06-14 | 2013-04-11 | Nestec S.A. | Dispensing container for probiotics |
WO2015116809A1 (en) * | 2014-01-31 | 2015-08-06 | Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. | Water bottle with self-closing valve |
US20150267420A1 (en) * | 2014-03-18 | 2015-09-24 | Profilitec S.P.A. Socio Unico | Leveling device for laying tiles or the like |
USD741025S1 (en) * | 2014-08-18 | 2015-10-13 | Gary Ross | Portable water travel mug for dogs |
WO2015189748A1 (en) * | 2014-06-12 | 2015-12-17 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Cover device for a drink container |
US20160050884A1 (en) * | 2014-08-18 | 2016-02-25 | Gary Ross | Portable water travel bottle for use to provide water to dogs in automobiles and other locations remote from home |
USD770100S1 (en) * | 2015-07-30 | 2016-10-25 | Sheila Ann Burroughs | Dog watering device |
US20180029863A1 (en) * | 2016-07-29 | 2018-02-01 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Liquid dispenser |
US9901073B2 (en) * | 2016-04-15 | 2018-02-27 | Jamie Hunt | Disposable pet water bottle and bowl combination |
US20180162607A1 (en) * | 2016-12-10 | 2018-06-14 | Roderic A. Rivera | Food Keeper-and-Dispenser |
EP3261943A4 (en) * | 2015-02-23 | 2019-02-13 | Henkel IP & Holding GmbH | Inverted bottle dispensing systems and methods |
JP2019043555A (en) * | 2017-08-29 | 2019-03-22 | 株式会社吉野工業所 | Cap for double container |
US20200095050A1 (en) * | 2018-09-26 | 2020-03-26 | Phoenix Closures, Inc. | Dispensing closure system with slitted liner |
WO2020260856A1 (en) * | 2019-06-24 | 2020-12-30 | Phrixos Prodromou | Dispenser |
US20220288269A1 (en) * | 2019-08-26 | 2022-09-15 | Menicon Co., Ltd. | Ocular device case and refill container used for the ocular device case |
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RU2629540C2 (en) * | 2012-06-14 | 2017-08-29 | Конинклейке Филипс Н.В. | Capacitive level sensor |
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US2942762A (en) * | 1957-04-08 | 1960-06-28 | Fahr Morris | Dispenser for toilet lotions |
US2979236A (en) * | 1958-02-10 | 1961-04-11 | Fahr Morris | Dispenser caps for fluid containers |
US3094250A (en) * | 1960-11-17 | 1963-06-18 | Permalux Company | Liquid-dispensing apparatus |
US3179300A (en) * | 1962-07-02 | 1965-04-20 | Guild Molders | Dispensing valve for squeezable tubes |
US3347420A (en) * | 1965-08-16 | 1967-10-17 | Robert J Donoghue | Multi-compartment container for dispensing measured quantities of a plurality of liquids |
US3456650A (en) * | 1966-11-29 | 1969-07-22 | Gilbert Schwartzman | Blowback eliminator for collapsible tube |
US3705668A (en) * | 1969-11-14 | 1972-12-12 | Gilbert Schwartzman | Dispenser with dip tube |
US3878972A (en) * | 1974-08-29 | 1975-04-22 | L Laslo Por | Liquid measuring and dispensing apparatus |
US3917119A (en) * | 1974-11-01 | 1975-11-04 | Bel Art Prod Inc | Squeeze type device for dispensing liquid medicaments or the like to a bodily organ |
US4077547A (en) * | 1976-02-02 | 1978-03-07 | Donoghue Robert J | Measuring and dispensing apparatus |
US4146154A (en) * | 1976-05-05 | 1979-03-27 | Mastman Gary J | Hand-actuated liquid dispenser |
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Cited By (25)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8939326B2 (en) * | 2010-06-14 | 2015-01-27 | Nestec S.A. | Dispensing container for probiotics |
US20130087471A1 (en) * | 2010-06-14 | 2013-04-11 | Nestec S.A. | Dispensing container for probiotics |
US10472140B2 (en) | 2014-01-31 | 2019-11-12 | Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. | Water bottle with self-closing valve |
WO2015116809A1 (en) * | 2014-01-31 | 2015-08-06 | Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. | Water bottle with self-closing valve |
US9482019B2 (en) * | 2014-03-18 | 2016-11-01 | Profilitec S.P.A. Socio Unico | Leveling device for laying tiles or the like |
US20150267420A1 (en) * | 2014-03-18 | 2015-09-24 | Profilitec S.P.A. Socio Unico | Leveling device for laying tiles or the like |
WO2015189748A1 (en) * | 2014-06-12 | 2015-12-17 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Cover device for a drink container |
JP2017525623A (en) * | 2014-06-12 | 2017-09-07 | コーニンクレッカ フィリップス エヌ ヴェKoninklijke Philips N.V. | Cover device for beverage containers |
US10045644B2 (en) | 2014-06-12 | 2018-08-14 | Koninklijke Philips N.V. | Cover device for a drink container |
RU2672608C2 (en) * | 2014-06-12 | 2018-11-16 | Конинклейке Филипс Н.В. | Cover device for a drink container |
US20160050884A1 (en) * | 2014-08-18 | 2016-02-25 | Gary Ross | Portable water travel bottle for use to provide water to dogs in automobiles and other locations remote from home |
USD741025S1 (en) * | 2014-08-18 | 2015-10-13 | Gary Ross | Portable water travel mug for dogs |
US10028484B2 (en) * | 2014-08-18 | 2018-07-24 | Gary Ross | Portable water travel bottle for use to provide water to dogs in automobiles and other locations remote from home |
EP3261943A4 (en) * | 2015-02-23 | 2019-02-13 | Henkel IP & Holding GmbH | Inverted bottle dispensing systems and methods |
USD770100S1 (en) * | 2015-07-30 | 2016-10-25 | Sheila Ann Burroughs | Dog watering device |
US9901073B2 (en) * | 2016-04-15 | 2018-02-27 | Jamie Hunt | Disposable pet water bottle and bowl combination |
US10392239B2 (en) * | 2016-07-29 | 2019-08-27 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Liquid dispenser |
US20180029863A1 (en) * | 2016-07-29 | 2018-02-01 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Liquid dispenser |
US10696534B2 (en) * | 2016-07-29 | 2020-06-30 | Berry Plastics Corporation | Liquid dispenser |
US20180162607A1 (en) * | 2016-12-10 | 2018-06-14 | Roderic A. Rivera | Food Keeper-and-Dispenser |
JP2019043555A (en) * | 2017-08-29 | 2019-03-22 | 株式会社吉野工業所 | Cap for double container |
US20200095050A1 (en) * | 2018-09-26 | 2020-03-26 | Phoenix Closures, Inc. | Dispensing closure system with slitted liner |
US10676268B2 (en) * | 2018-09-26 | 2020-06-09 | Phoenix Closures, Inc. | Dispensing closure system with slitted liner |
WO2020260856A1 (en) * | 2019-06-24 | 2020-12-30 | Phrixos Prodromou | Dispenser |
US20220288269A1 (en) * | 2019-08-26 | 2022-09-15 | Menicon Co., Ltd. | Ocular device case and refill container used for the ocular device case |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2010148000A3 (en) | 2011-04-21 |
CA2765191A1 (en) | 2010-12-23 |
WO2010148000A2 (en) | 2010-12-23 |
US20140332564A1 (en) | 2014-11-13 |
US8944293B2 (en) | 2015-02-03 |
US20130056498A1 (en) | 2013-03-07 |
US20150314926A1 (en) | 2015-11-05 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: COOL GEAR INTERNATIONAL, LLC, PENNSYLVANIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:ROTH, DONNA J.;ROTH, HENRY M.;REEL/FRAME:025521/0375 Effective date: 20101201 |
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: COOL GEAR INTERNATIONAL, LLC, PENNSYLVANIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:ROTH, DONNA J.;ROTH, HENRY ("HANK") M.;REEL/FRAME:025521/0506 Effective date: 20101201 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |