Drinking Shot Delivery And Novelty Apparatus

Abstract

A modular beverage platform unit includes an elongated body, a first connection feature extending outward from a first end portion of the elongated body and a second connection feature disposed at a second end portion of the elongated body opposite the first end portion. The second connection feature comprises a recess. Further, the modular beverage platform unit includes a retention feature configured to secure drinkware to a top portion of the elongated body.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There has been a significant shift in the importance of experiences over money or objects with the changing generation groups as more and more individuals value events, activities, and group engagements over materialistic elements. With this shift, there is desire to retain reminders of these experiences. As such, there is an opportunity to offer usable elements that provide such reminders. Some usable elements may not only remind individuals of the prior experiences but may also allow for the involvement of other participants (e.g., friends or new acquaintances) in new experiences.

In the ski community, there exists a historical activity of consuming alcoholic shots after a ski outing with friends or new acquaintances. Some bars or similar establishments offer shot skis. To administer a shot with a shot ski, a ski converted into a drinking platform (e.g., shot ski) that holds multiple drinks (e.g., shots or similar beverages). When the shot ski is tilted, all participants drink the shots at the same time. This coordinated activity helps to enhance the bonding activity of the shared drink activity.

This activity is considered a ritual for some and a bonding activity for others as it enables a group activity with a shared level of comradery. Alternative drinking platforms have been developed to imitate traditional drinking platforms. These alternative drinking platforms are produced from a myriad of materials and are sized to replicate an actual ski so that multiple people may participate. However, transporting a drinking platform that is the size of an actual ski may be difficult, especially when flying. Indeed, the drinking platform may not fit in an overhead cabin compartment; thereby, requiring the drinking platform to be checked, which may incur costs and reduce convenience of traveling with the drinking platform.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These drawings illustrate certain aspects of some examples of the present disclosure and should not be used to limit or define the disclosure.

FIG. 1. illustrates a perspective view of a modular beverage platform system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a modular beverage platform unit of the modular beverage platform system of FIG. 1 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate cross-sectional views of respective retention features of the modular beverage platform unit of FIG. 2 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of the modular beverage platform unit having a magnetic connection assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the modular beverage platform unit having first and second connection features in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a block diagram of an electronic assembly of the modular beverage platform system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the modular beverage platform unit in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Provided are systems and methods for a modular beverage platform system (e.g., modular shot ski system). There exists a market need for a modular beverage platform system having multiple sub-sections (e.g., modular beverage platform units) each holding an individual beverage (e.g., shot) such that when combined form a complete beverage platform (e.g., shot ski). This modular aspect provides for simplified transportation. Further, the modular aspect may provide for customization or branding of each individual subsection. Individuals may collect, swap, or share modular beverage platform units as keepsakes or similar memorabilia. Any group of individuals may combine their individual modular beverage platform units, which can be quickly assembled, such that groups can participate in traditional shot ski activities with a custom and memorable beverage platform.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular beverage platform system 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The modular beverage platform system 100 includes a plurality of modular beverage platform units (e.g., modular units 102) configured to interconnect to form a beverage platform 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the beverage platform 104 has a snow ski shape such that the beverage platform 104 may be utilized as a shot ski. Alternatively, the beverage platform 104 may have a shape of a water ski, a surfboard, a snowboard, a skateboard, or any other suitable shape.

Any number of modular units 102 may be interconnected to form the beverage platform 104. For example, a first modular unit 106, a second modular unit 108, and a third modular unit 110 may be interconnected to form the beverage platform 104 for three individuals at an event. An additional individual may arrive to the event at a later time. Upon arrival, a fourth modular unit 112 may be connected to the beverage platform 104 such that the four individuals may participate. Additional modular units 102 may be added or some modular units 102 may be removed based on a desired size of the beverage platform 104. In some embodiments, the modular unit 102 may be utilized individually as a single unit beverage platform 104. In other embodiments, dozens of modular units 102 may be interconnected to form the beverage platform 104.

Each modular unit 102 may include an elongated body 114. The elongated body 114 may be shaped as a portion of a ski or other suitable object based on a corresponding beverage platform 104 shape. For example, the elongated body 114 may have a substantially rectangular prism shape to form a modular unit 102 for a beverage platform 104 having a snow ski shape. A width 116 of the elongated body 114 may be between 95-125 millimeters based at least in part on a traditional waist width of a snow ski. A thickness 118 of the elongated body 114 may be between 1-3 centimeters based at least in part on a traditional thickness of a snow ski. Additionally, the elongated body 114 may have a length 120 between 25-45 centimeters to form a portion of a length of a traditional snow ski. In some embodiments, the modular beverage platform system 100 may have a standard length (e.g., 35 centimeters) for each modular unit 102 of the beverage platform 104. Alternatively, the beverage platform 104 may include modular units 102 having varying lengths.

The modular units 102 may be configured to hold or present drinkware 122 for a beverage or alcoholic shot, or to indicate the appropriate location for the drinkware 122. In particular, each modular unit 102 may include at least one retention feature 124 configured to secure the drinkware 122 (e.g., shot glass or other beverage container) to a top portion 126 of the elongated body 114. In the illustrated embodiment, each modular unit 102 has a single retention feature 124 formed in the top portion 126 of the elongated body 114. Alternatively, each modular unit 102 may include two or more retention features 124 formed in the top portion 126 of the elongated body 114.

Moreover, the modular units 102 may include marketing elements 128 that do not interfere with the retention features 124 or that are designed to interface with the retention features 124. In some embodiments, the marketing elements 128 may be displayed on respective exterior surfaces 130 (e.g., top surface 138, bottom surface, edge/side surfaces 142, etc.) of the elongated bodies 114 of the modular units 102. The marketing elements 128 may be applied via printing, additives, paint, e-Ink, decals, light emitting diodes (LEDs), embossing, stamping, or some combination thereof. The marketing elements 128 may display appropriate branding or other customized marketing or communication messages. For example, the modular unit 102 may include a marketing element 128 configured to display a name of a drink location (e.g., bar, resort, restaurant, etc.) on an external surface of the modular beverage platform 104 unit. In another example, the marketing element 128 may include a title, date, location, or marketing badge, associated with an event, festival, etc. Moreover, the marketing element 128 may include a ski lodge title, ski run names, mountain names, marketing collateral, or some combination thereof displayed on the external surface of the modular unit 102.

In some embodiments, the marketing element 128 is displayed on a single modular unit 102 of the beverage platform 104. For example, marketing element 128 may include the name of a ski resort (e.g., Example #1) displayed entirely on the top surface 138 of the fourth modular unit 112. As such, each modular unit 102 may provide space for an individual marketing element 128, which may allow an individual to highlight travels, experiences, or events in a personalized offering that can change over time. Assembling or connecting such modular units 102 may produce a customized or individualized shot ski structure.

In some embodiments, the marketing element 128 may be displayed across multiple modular units 102. For example, the market element may include the name of a ski resort (e.g., Example #2) displayed across the top surface 138 of a pair of modular units 102. That is, a first portion 136 of the marketing element 128 may be disposed on a top surface 138 of the first modular unit 106 and a second portion 140 of the marketing element 128 may be disposed on the second modular unit 108. When connected, the pair of modular units 102 (e.g., the first modular unit 106 and the second modular unit 108) display the name of the ski resort. Providing pairs or groups of modular units 102 with shared marketing elements 128 may allow groups of individuals to highlight travels, experiences, or events as a group.

Moreover, the modular beverage platform system 100 may include a tip cap and/or a tail cap configured to connect to the modular units 102. In particular, the tip cap may be configured to connection to a first end 132 of the beverage platform 104, and the tail cap may be configured to connection to a second end 134 of the beverage platform 104. Generally, the tip cap may be connected to a frontmost modular unit (e.g., the fourth modular unit 112) of the beverage platform 104 to provide a tip for the beverage platform 104. Further, the tail cap may generally be connected to the rearmost modular unit (e.g., the first modular unit 106) of the beverage platform 104 to provide a tail for the beverage platform 104. The tip cap and the tail cap may be shaped based at least in part on the shape of the beverage platform 104. For example, the tip cap and the tail cap may be shaped as a snow ski tip and a snow ski tail respectively, based on the beverage platform 104 having a snow ski shape. The tip cap and the tail cap may benefit transportation of the modular units 102 at least in part by protecting portions of the modular units 102 from damage caused by collision, abrasion, etc.

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the modular beverage platform unit (e.g., modular unit 102) of the modular beverage platform system 100 of FIG. 1 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. As set forth above, the modular unit 102 includes the elongated body 114 having a shape based at least in part on a desired shape for a corresponding beverage platform 104 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1). In the illustrated embodiment, the elongated body 114 is shaped to represent a portion of a traditional snow ski for a snow ski shaped beverage platform 104 (e.g., shot ski). Further, as set forth above, the modular unit 102 may include the at least one retention feature 124 configured to secure the drinkware 122 (e.g., shot glass or other beverage container shown in FIG. 1) to the top portion 126 of the elongated body 114 of the modular unit 102.

Moreover, each modular unit 102 may include an interconnection system having a first connection feature 200 and a second connection feature 202 for interconnecting the modular units 102 to form the beverage platform 104 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1). The first connection feature 200 and the second connection feature 202 are configured to provide ease of attachment and release of the modular units 102 while maintaining a high tension connection that is unaffected by torsion effects caused by usage of the beverage platform 104 (e.g., shot ski). As illustrated, the first modular unit 106 includes the first connection feature 200 and the second connection feature 202, which are configured to connect the first modular unit 106 to adjacent modular units. In particular, the first connection feature 200 is configured to connect to a second connection feature 202 of an adjacent modular unit 102 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1), and the second connection feature 202 is configured to connect to a first connection feature 200 of another adjacent modular unit. For example, the first connection feature 200 of the first modular unit 106 may connect to the second connection feature 202 of the second modular unit 108 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1), and the second connection feature 202 of the first modular unit 106 may connect to the first connection feature 200 of another modular unit. The first connection feature 200s and the second connection feature 202s may be uniform for each modular unit 102 such that any first connection feature 200 may connect to any second connection feature 202, thereby, providing for customizable assembly configurations for the beverage platform 104.

As illustrated, the first connection feature 200 may extend outward from a first end 204 of the elongated body 114. The first connection feature 200 may be mounted or secured to the first end of the elongated body 114. Alternatively, the first connection feature 200 may include a portion of the elongated body 114 extending outward from the first end. The first connection feature 200 may include substantially parallel top and bottom surfaces 206, 208 with an edge surface 210 between the top and bottom surfaces 206, 208. In some embodiments, the edge surface 210 may be beveled. Further, the first connection feature 200 may include a curved profile (e.g., a semi-circular profile, a high semi-elliptical profile, a wide semi-elliptical profile, or any other suitable curved profile. In some embodiments, the high semi-elliptical profile may be incorporated to prevent rotation of the first connection feature 200 with respect to the connected adjacent modular unit 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the first connection feature 200 includes the curved profile such that the first connection feature 200 has a shape similar to a tip of a snow ski. As such, the modular unit 102 at the frontmost of the beverage platform 104 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1) may have a tip shape without having to connect the tip cap (e.g., disclosed in FIG. 1). Further, the curved profile may reduce sharp edges to ensure safe usage and packing for shipping or transportation. Additionally, as the modular unit 102 may be transported by means and methods regulated by TSA or similar governmental safety agencies, the curved profile may reduce a risk of modular unit 102 being classified as a weapon by TSA or similar governmental safety agencies.

Moreover, the second connection feature 202 may be a recess 212 disposed at a second end of the elongated body 114 opposite the first end 204. The second connection feature 202 is configured to receive and retain the first connection feature 200. In some embodiments, the first connection feature 200 is retained in the second connection feature 202 via an interference fit (e.g., press fit or friction fit). Accordingly, the recess 212 of the second connection feature 202 may be shaped based at least in part on a shape of the first connection feature 200. That is, the shape of the second connection feature 202 may correspond to the shape of the first connection feature 200.

In some embodiments, the elongated body 114 of the modular unit 102 includes a rigid, high density foam material such as high-density polyurethane. The rigid, high density foam may provide sufficient rigidity to retain its general shape while still providing suitable deflection for interference fits between the first connection feature 200 and the second connection feature 202, as well as between the retention feature 124 and the drinkware 122. The rigidity of the foam may be based at least in part on flexural modulus measurement. The rigid, high density foam material may have a flexural modulus measurement between 140,000-260,000 pounds per square inch. Further, the rigid, high density foam material may include a density between 20-60 pounds per cubic foot. However, the elongated body 114 may be formed from any other suitable material with any suitable flexural modulus and density. For example, the elongated body 114 may be formed from High-density polyethylene (HDPE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polycarbonate, fiberglass, wood, aluminum, steel, carbon fiber, or any other suitable material. In some embodiments, the elongated body 114 may include a composite material. For example, the elongated body 114 may be formed from the rigid, high density foam core with a fiberglass shell forming the exterior surface 130 of the elongated body 114. In another example, the core of the elongated body 114, the first connection feature 200, the second connection feature 202, or some combination thereof, may be reinforced with one or more materials (e.g., carbon fiber, aluminum, etc.).

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate cross-sectional views of respective retention features 124 of the modular beverage platform 104 unit of FIG. 2 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In particular, FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the retention feature 124 having a variable cross-section. The retention feature 124 includes a bore 300 formed in the top portion 126 of the elongated body 114. The bore may be configured to receive the drinkware 122 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1) and retain the drinkware 122 at various tilt orientations of the modular unit 102 (e.g., tilted between −135 to 135 degrees). In some embodiments, the bore 300 may retain the drinkware 122 via an interference fit.

Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment, the bore 300 has a variable diameter along a depth of the bore 300. The bore 300 may include a first portion 302 disposed proximate a top 304 of the bore 300 (e.g., proximate the exterior surface 130 of the elongated body 114. A diameter 306 of the first portion 302 may be configured to gradually reduce along the depth of the first portion 302. The bore 300 may also include a second portion 308 disposed proximate a bottom 310 of the bore 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 308 has a constant diameter 312. However, in some embodiments, the second portion may include a variable diameter. The diameter 312 of the second portion 308 may be similar to a diameter of the drinkware 122 such that an interference fit is formed between the second portion 308 and the drinkware 122. As set forth above, the interference fit may retain the drinkware 122 in the retention feature 124 (e.g., the bore.) In some embodiments, the bore 300 may include an adhesive (e.g., Velcro) disposed within the bore 300 to assist in retention of the drinkware 122.

FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the retention feature 124 having the bore 300 and a grommet 314. As set forth above, the bore 300 may be formed in the top portion 126 of the elongated body 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the grommet 314 is an inset or countersunk grommet positioned within the bore 300 and configured to form an interface between the drinkware 122 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1) and an interior surface 316 of the bore 300. In some embodiments, the grommet 314 is a surface mount grommet at least partially secured to the exterior surface 130 of the elongated body 114 proximate the bore 300. The grommet 314 may comprise a rubber material. However, the grommet may include any suitable material.

FIG. 3C illustrates a cross-sectional view of the retention feature 124 having the bore 300 with a threaded portion 318. In some embodiments, the drinkware 122 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1) of the modular beverage platform system 100 includes corresponding threads (not shown) on an exterior portion of the drinkware 122. As such, that the drinkware 122 may be configured to screw into the threaded portion 318 of the bore 300 to secure the drinkware 122 to the top portion 126 of the elongated body 114.

FIG. 3D illustrates a cross-sectional view of the retention feature 124 having a magnetic retention assembly 320. As illustrated, the magnetic retention assembly includes a first magnet 322 secured to the elongated body 114. The first magnet 322 may include a permanent magnet (e.g., rare earth magnet). The first magnet 322 may be secured to a top portion 126 of the elongated body 114. In some embodiments, the first magnet 322 may be secured to the exterior surface 130 of the top portion 126 of the elongated body 114. In some embodiments, the first magnet 322 may be embedded in the elongated body 114 under the exterior surface 130 of the top portion 126 of the elongated body 114. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the first magnet 322 is secured within the bore 300 formed in the top portion 126 of the elongated body 114. Moreover, the magnetic retention assembly 320 may include a second permanent magnet (not shown) secured to the drinkware 122 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1). Alternatively, at least a portion of the drinkware 122 may include a material (e.g., iron, steel etc.) configured to form a temporary magnet in the presence of the first permanent magnet 322. Magnetic forces between the first magnet 322 and the second magnet may be configured to secure the drinkware 122 to the elongated body 114

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of another embodiment of the modular beverage platform unit (e.g., modular unit 102) having a magnetic connection assembly 400 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. The modular unit 102 may include the interconnection system having the first connection feature 200 and the second connection feature 202 for interconnecting the modular units 102 to form the beverage platform 104 (e.g., shown in FIG. 1). In the illustrated embodiment, the modular unit 102 includes the magnetic connection assembly 400 having a first connection magnet 402 secured to the first connection feature 200 and a second connection magnet 404 secured to the second connection feature 202. In some embodiments the first connection magnet 402 and/or the second connection magnet 404 include rare-earth magnets. Alternatively, the first connection magnet 402 and/or the second connection magnet 404 may include electromagnets. Magnetic forces between the first connection magnet 402 and the second connection magnet 404 may be configured to secure the first connection feature 200 to the second connection feature 202 of another modular unit 102. In some embodiments, the magnetic connection assembly may be configured to operate in combination with another securing mechanism to secure the first connection feature 200 to the second connection feature 202.

Moreover, in some embodiments, the first connection feature 200 and the second connection feature 202 may include support elements for reinforcing the first connection feature 200 and the second connection feature 202. The support elements may include a hard material (e.g., carbon fiber, etc.) configured to support stress on the first connection feature 200 and/or the second connection feature 202 due to bending forces, torsional forces, or any other forces acting on the first connection feature 200 and/or the second connection feature 202. For example, the first connection feature 200 may include at least one carbon fiber reinforcement rod extending through at least a portion of the first connection feature 200 and into a portion of the elongated body 114.

Moreover, the modular beverage platform 104 unit may include an attachment anchor feature 406 configured to receive an attachment mechanism (e.g., carabiner, guitar strap, belt loop attachment, etc.). Specifically, the attachment anchor feature 406 may be formed in a portion of the elongated body 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment anchor feature 406 is formed at a corner 408 of the elongated body 114 proximate the first connection feature 200. However, the attachment anchor feature 406 may be formed in any portion of the elongated body 114.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of modular beverage platform units 102 each having respective first and second connection features 200, 202 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. Each modular unit 102 may include the interconnection system having the first connection feature 200 and the second connection feature 202 for interconnecting the modular units 102 to form the beverage platform 104. As illustrated, the first connection feature 200 of the first modular unit 106 includes a protrusion 500 configured to fit within the recess 212 (e.g., second connection feature 202) of the second modular unit 108. Further, the first connection feature 200 includes at least one spring pin 502 mounted to the protrusion 500. The spring pin is 502 configured to expand into corresponding holes 504 of the second connection feature 202 to lock the first connection feature 200 to the second connection feature 202. The holes 504 may extend from the recess 212, through the core 506 of the elongated body 114, and through the exterior surface 130 (e.g., top surface 138, edge, bottom surface 508) of the elongated body 114. Moreover, the modular unit 102 may include other features to secure the first connection feature 200 to the second connection feature 202. For example, the modular unit 102 may include hook & latch tabs, rod(s) and pins, interconnecting overlap tab elements attached to the external surfaces of the first and second modular units 106, 108, or any other suitable securing features to at least partially secure a connection between the individual modular units 102.

Each modular unit 102 may include a release mechanism 510 configured to release the first connection feature 200 from the second connection feature 202. For example, the release mechanism may be configured to disengage the spring pins 502 for disconnecting of the modular units 102. Specifically, the release mechanism may compress the spring pins 502 out of the holes 504 such that the first connection feature 200 may slide out of the second connection feature 202. The release mechanism 510 may be actuated via a mechanical actuator (e.g. switch, button, etc.).

In some embodiments, the modular beverage platform system 100 may include platform interconnection elements. As set forth above, the beverage platform 104 can be formed based on a traditional shot ski design. That is, the modular units 102 may be lined up in a traditional linear design. However, in some embodiments, the platform interconnection elements may provide for a non-traditional (e.g., non-linear) beverage platform 104. The platform interconnection elements may include 45-degree adapters, 90-degree adapters, or any other suitable platform interconnection element for providing a non-linear beverage platform 104. In some embodiments, the platform interconnection elements are configured to receive the first connection feature 200 from the first modular unit 106 and extend into the second connection feature 202 of the second modular unit 108. For example, the first connection feature 200 of the first modular unit 106 may be inserted into a 90-degree adapter, and the 90-degree adapter may be inserted into the second connection feature 202 of the second modular, such that the first modular unit 106 is connected to the second modular unit 108 at a 90-degree angle. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the first connection feature 200 may have a non-linear orientation such that connecting the first connection feature 200 directly to the second connection feature 202 may provide the non-linear connection between the first modular unit 106 and the second modular unit 108.

In some embodiments, the modular units 102 may include a plurality of feet 512 secured to the bottom surface 508 (e.g., base) of the elongated body 114. The plurality of feet 512 may be configured to support the elongated body 114. In particular, the plurality of feet 512 may be configured to keep the modular units 102 between 1-2 centimeters above any contaminant material (e.g., liquid). Elevating the modular unit 102 above the contaminant material may limit the impact of additional dripping of liquids during use. Further, elevating the modular units 102 may cause the modular units 102 to easier to pick up. Indeed, the modular units 102 may be used in areas generally having wet surfaces. As such, elevating the plurality of feet 512 may reduce or eliminate surface adhesion effects caused by contact of the elongated body 114 with the wet surfaces, such that the modular unit 102 is easier to pick up.

FIG. 6 illustrates a block diagram of an electronic assembly 600 of the modular beverage platform system 100 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the electronic assembly 600 includes a central control system for the beverage platform 104. However, in the illustrated embodiment, each modular unit 102 of the beverage platform may include a control system 602a, 602b having a processor 604a, 604b and a memory 606a, 606b. The processor 604a, 604b may include one or more processing devices, and the memory 606a, 606b may include one or more tangible, non-transitory, machine-readable media. By way of example, such machine-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by the processor 604a, 604b or by other processor-based devices (e.g., mobile devices). In some embodiments, the memory 606a, 606b is configured to store controller instructions executable by the processor 604a, 604b to output various control system signals. For example, the processor 604a, 604b may execute the controller instructions to activate various electronic components such as speaker devices 608a, 608b, lighting elements 610a, 610b (e.g., light emitting diodes, e-ink, etc.), sensors 612a, 612b, electronic marketing elements 614a, 614b, etc.

In some embodiments, the processor 604a, 604b may be configured to output the various control system signals based at least in part on user input received via a user interface 616. The user interface 39 may include an application accessible via a computing device 618 (e.g., mobile device, computer, etc.). The application may be downloaded from a mobile application store and/or accessible via a web browser. Further, the computing device may include an input/output 620 (e.g., touchscreen, keyboard, or mouse) configured to provide the user input, as well as a display 622 (e.g., mobile device screen, computer monitor, or other device screen) configured to display information and options for application. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the displayed information may be based on measurements determined via the sensors 612a, 612b (e.g., gyroscopic sensors, pressure sensors, liquid flow sensors, and/or any other suitable sensor) disposed on the respective modular units 102 of the beverage platform 104. In some embodiments, the sensors 612a, 612b may be configured to detect spilling of a beverage, tilting of the modular units 102 (e.g., starting and/or stopping the shot process), etc. The displayed options may include an option to cause the speaker device 608a, 608b to output an audio signal “party foul” in response to detection of a beverage spill. Another option may cause light emitting diodes (LEDs) of the lighting element 610a, 610b disposed on the modular unit 102 to activate in response to tilting the modular unit 102 during use. The displayed options may include any number of options. Selecting the displayed options may provide user input for the mobile application to automatically provide instructions to the control system 602a, 602b based on the selected options. In some embodiments, the mobile application may provide for manual control of various features of the electronic system. For example, the mobile application may provide an option to activate/deactivate LEDs of the lighting element 610a, 610b for the respective modular unit 102 of the beverage platform 104 in response to user input.

The control system 602a, 602b may be configured receive the user input from the user interface 616 (e.g., mobile application) and output various control signals to the electronic components of the modular units 102 via communications circuitry 624a, 624b. Indeed, the electronic system may include communications circuitry mounted to each modular unit 102. Additionally, the computing device may also include communication circuity 624c to output and receive signals. The communications circuitry 624a, 624b, 624c may include antennas, radio transceiver circuits, and signal processing hardware and/or software (e.g., hardware or software filters, A/D converters, multiplexers, amplifiers), or a combination thereof, and that may be configured to communicate over wireless communication paths via infrared (IR) wireless communication, satellite communication, broadcast radio, microwave radio, Bluetooth, Zigbee, Wifi, UHF, NFC, etc.

As set forth above, the modular beverage platform system 100 may include the central control system (not shown) that may be configured to control various electronic components of multiple modular units 102. For example, the central control system may activate/deactivate lighting elements 610a, 610b on one or more modular units 102 to identify each modular unit 102 of the beverage platform 104 for initiating a group event. The lighting elements 610a, 610b may include LED lighting strips disposed on or embedded in the modular units 102. In some embodiments, the central control system may also be configured to activate/deactivate the electronic marketing elements 614a, 614b. The electronic marketing elements 614a, 614b may display appropriate branding or other customized marketing or communication messages via LEDs, e-ink, or any other suitable electronic visual indication elements.

FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of another embodiment of the modular beverage platform unit 102 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the modular units 102 may include spillover channels 700 to keep the modular units 102 as clean as possible during use. The top surface 138 of the modular unit 102 may be sloped. Specifically, the top surface 138 may include a slight downward slope from the retention feature 124 toward the spillover channels 700. The slight downward slope may direct at least a portion of a spilled liquid into the spillover channels 700, which may reduce dripping of liquids onto individuals during use of the modular unit 102. The spillover channels 700 may have holes along the spillover channels 700 to provide for draining of the liquids through the holes.

In some embodiments, the modular beverage platform system 100 may monitor the flow rate of liquids through the spillover channels 700 to determine a flow rate and/or volume of spilled liquids and provide an alert (e.g., audio alert, visual alert, digital recording) related to the flow rate and/or volume of spilled liquids. For example, the modular beverage platform system 100 may be configured to provide an audio alert indicating a “party foul” in response to the flow rate and/or volume of spilled liquids exceeding a predetermined value. In some embodiments, information or other experience information including but not limited to liquid spillage, connection/disconnection, power distribution, or digital data from sensors, buttons, or other user input elements could be shared between individual modular units 102 via the control system.

It is believed that the operation and construction of the present disclosure will be apparent from the foregoing description. While the apparatus and methods shown or described above have been characterized as being preferred, various changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A modular beverage platform unit, comprising: an elongated body;a first connection feature extending outward from a first end of the elongated body;a second connection feature disposed at a second end of the elongated body opposite the first end, wherein the second connection feature comprises a recess; anda retention feature configured to secure drinkware to a top portion of the elongated body.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the elongated body is configured to connect with at least one additional elongated body via the first connection feature and/or the second connection feature.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the drinkware comprises a shot glass.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the retention feature comprises a bore formed in the top portion of the elongated body, the bore having a variable diameter along a depth of the bore.

5. The system of claim 4, further comprising a grommet positioned within the bore and configured to form an interface between the drinkware and an interior surface of the bore.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a bore having a threaded portion, and wherein the drinkware comprises corresponding threads such that the drinkware is configured to screw into the threaded portion to secure the drinkware to the top portion of the elongated body.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the retention feature comprises a magnetic retention assembly, the magnetic retention assembly having a first magnet secured to the top portion of the elongated body and a second magnet secured to the drinkware, wherein magnetic forces between the first magnet and the second magnet are configured to secure the drinkware to the top portion of the elongated body.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of feet secured to a base of the elongated body, wherein the plurality of feet is configured to support the base.

9. The system of claim 1, further comprising a marketing element disposed on an exterior surface of the elongated body, wherein the marketing element is applied via printing, additives, paint, e-Ink, decals, light emitting diodes (LEDs), embossing, stamping, or some combination thereof.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the elongated body comprises a rigid, high density foam, wherein the foam comprises a flexural modulus between 140,000-260,000 pounds per square inch, and wherein the foam comprises a density between 20-60 pounds per cubic foot.

11. The system of claim 1, further comprising an attachment anchor feature configured to receive an attachment mechanism, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises a carabiner.

12. A modular beverage platform system, comprising: a plurality of modular beverage platform units configured to interconnect to form a beverage platform, wherein each modular beverage platform unit comprises: an elongated body;a first connection feature extending outward from a first end of the elongated body;a second connection feature comprising a recess disposed at a second end of the elongated body opposite the first end, wherein the second connection feature is configured to connect with the first connection feature of an adjacent modular beverage platform unit; anda retention feature configured to secure drinkware to a top portion of the elongated body;

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the beverage platform comprises a shape of a snow ski, a water ski, surfboard, skateboard, or a snowboard.

14. The system of claim 12, further comprising a magnetic connection assembly having a first connection magnet secured to the first connection feature and a second connection magnet secured to the second connection feature, wherein the magnetic forces between the first connection magnet and the second connection magnet are configured to secure the first connection feature to the second connection feature.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the first connection feature comprises a protrusion configured to fit within the recess of the second connection feature, and wherein the first connection feature further comprises at least one spring pin mounted to the protrusion and configured to expand into corresponding holes disposed within the recess of the second connection feature to lock the first connection feature to the second connection feature.

16. The system of claim 12, further comprising a marketing element, wherein a first portion of the marketing branding element is disposed on a first modular beverage platform unit of the beverage platform, and wherein a second portion of the marketing element is disposed on a second modular beverage platform unit of the beverage platform.

17. The system of claim 12, further comprising at least one electronic component mounted to each modular beverage platform unit, wherein the electronic component comprises a speaker device, a light emitting diode (LED), a sensor, or some combination thereof

18. The system of claim 12, further comprising communications circuitry mounted to each modular beverage platform unit, wherein the communication circuitry is configured to receive and transmit instructions between a user interface and at least one electronic component mounted to each modular beverage platform unit.

19. The system of claim 12, wherein the user interface comprises a mobile application accessible via a mobile device, wherein the mobile application is configured to output instructions based on user input.

20. A modular beverage platform unit, comprising: an elongated body comprising a rigid, high density foam, wherein the foam comprises a flexural modulus between 140,000-260,000 pounds per square inch, and wherein the foam comprises a density between 20-60 pounds per cubic foot;a first connection feature extending outward from a first end portion of the elongated body;a second connection feature disposed at a second end portion of the elongated body opposite the first end portion, wherein the second connection feature comprises a recess, and wherein the elongated body is configured to connect with at least one additional elongated body via the first connection feature and/or the second connection feature;a retention feature configured to secure drinkware to a top portion of the elongated body, wherein the retention feature comprises a bore formed in the top portion of the elongated body;a marketing element disposed on an exterior surface of the elongated body; anda plurality of feet secured to a base of the elongated body, wherein the plurality of feet is configured to support the base.