Portable Container And Method Of Use

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to containers for retaining and transporting a product, such as a liquid, solid, or powder product.

BACKGROUND

Supplements, such as protein powders, are used before, during, and after workouts. Transporting these supplements in plastic bags can result in difficulties during transportation and during mixing of the supplements for consumption. In addition, shaker or mixer bottles can be used to hold a serving of the protein powder to which water or a beverage is added before consumption. Among other problems, shaker or mixer bottles are bulky and inconvenient to carry.

SUMMARY

Disclosed herein are implementations of containers for retaining and transporting a product, such as a liquid, solid, or powder product.

In a first aspect, a bottle is disclosed. The bottle comprises: a body that includes a first end forming a first aperture and a second end forming a second aperture, the first aperture having a first diameter and the second aperture having a second diameter, the first diameter being larger than the second diameter; a first cap removably coupled to the first end of the body; and a second cap removably coupled to the second end of the body.

In a second aspect, a portable container is disclosed. The portable container comprises: a hollow body including a base portion including a base aperture defining a first diameter, a finish portion including a finish aperture defining a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, and a transition section positioned between and connecting the base portion and the finish portion; a base cap removably connected to the base portion to cover the base aperture; a finish cap removably connected to the finish portion to cover the finish aperture; and a carrier device removably connected to the finish cap.

In a third aspect, an apparatus for storing and transporting a substance is disclosed. The apparatus comprises: a body including opposing first and second ends, the first end including a first male mating section and the second end including a second male mating section, the first male mating section defining a first opening and a first outer diameter and the second male mating section defining a second opening and a second outer diameter; a first cap including a first female mating section configured and dimensioned to removably receive the first male mating section such that the first cap covers the first opening, the first female mating section defining a third outer diameter larger than the first outer diameter; a second cap including a second female mating section configured and dimensioned to removably receive the second male mating section such that the second cap covers the second opening, the second female mating section defining a fourth outer diameter larger than the second outer diameter; and a carrier configured and dimensioned to removably connect to any of the body, the first cap, and the second cap.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a portable container for a product is disclosed that includes a body, and a cap that is configured for connection to the body. The body includes: a lower end portion with a lid; a first body portion extending from the lower end portion and having a generally cylindrical configuration; a second body portion extending from the first body portion and including an outer wall having a generally arcuate configuration; a third body portion extending from the second body portion and including an outer wall having a generally linear, tapered configuration; a stopper extending radially outward of the third body portion; an upstanding wall extending (upwardly) from the stopper; and a nozzle positioned concentrically within the upstanding wall, wherein the upstanding wall includes a first threaded section, and the nozzle defines an opening and includes a generally uniform outer surface. The cap includes an outer wall defining an inner surface with a second threaded section that is configured for engagement with the first threaded section to facilitate connection and disconnection of the cap and the body.

In certain embodiments, the lid may be removably connectable to the lower end portion of the body.

In certain embodiments, the nozzle may define an outermost transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a diameter) that lies substantially within the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 23 mm to facilitate insertion of the nozzle into a beverage bottle. For example, in one particular embodiment, the outermost transverse cross-sectional dimension of the nozzle may be approximately 21.7 mm such that the outermost transverse cross-sectional dimension of the nozzle substantially approximates an inner transverse cross-sectional dimension of a beverage bottle inlet. The outermost transverse cross-sectional dimension can include other diameters including but not limited to 1 mm to 100 mm.

In certain embodiments, the cap may further include an inner wall defining a receptacle that is configured to receive the nozzle. For example, the receptacle may be configured to receive the nozzle in an interference fit to inhibit the product from escaping the container.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a container is disclosed that includes a body, and a cap that is configured for connection to the body. The body has an upper end portion that includes: an upstanding wall with a first threaded section that is formed on an outer surface thereof, and a nozzle that is spaced radially inward from the upstanding wall, wherein the nozzle defines an opening and includes a generally uniform outer surface.

The cap includes an outer wall defining an inner surface including a second threaded section that is configured for engagement with the first threaded section to facilitate connection and disconnection of the cap and the body.

In certain embodiments, the body may further include: a first body portion having a generally cylindrical configuration; a second body portion extending from the first body portion and including an outer wall having a generally arcuate configuration; and a third body portion extending from the second body portion and including an outer wall having a generally linear, tapered configuration.

In certain embodiments, the second body portion may define a transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a diameter) that decreases towards the third body portion, and the third body portion may define a transverse cross-sectional dimension that decreases towards the nozzle to facilitate passage of a product into and out of the container.

In certain embodiments, the outer wall of the third body portion and the nozzle may be integrally formed.

In certain embodiments, the body may further include a stopper that is positioned adjacent to the third body portion, wherein the upstanding wall extends upwardly from the stopper.

In certain embodiments, the stopper and the cap may be configured for contact to inhibit rocking of the cap upon connection to the body.

In certain embodiments, the body may further include a lower end portion with an integral lid. Alternatively, the lower end portion of the body may include a removable lid. In such embodiments, the lower end portion of the body may include a third threaded section, and the lid may include a fourth threaded section that is configured for engagement with the third threaded section to facilitate connection and disconnection of the lid to the lower end portion of the body.

In certain embodiments, the nozzle may define an outermost transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a diameter) that lies substantially within the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 23 mm to facilitate insertion of the nozzle into a beverage bottle. For example, in one particular embodiment, the nozzle may define an outermost transverse cross-sectional dimension of approximately 21.7 mm such that the outermost transverse cross-sectional dimension substantially approximates an inner transverse cross-sectional dimension of a beverage bottle inlet.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a container is disclosed that includes a body, and a cap that is configured for connection to the body. The body includes: a first section having a generally linear cross-sectional configuration; a second section extending from the first section and having a generally arcuate cross-sectional configuration; and a third section extending from the second section and having a generally linear, tapered cross-sectional configuration.

In certain embodiments, the body may further include an upstanding wall having a first threaded section formed on an outer surface thereof that is configured for engagement with a corresponding second threaded section included on an inner surface of the cap, and a nozzle that is spaced radially inward from the upstanding wall, wherein the nozzle defines an opening and includes a generally uniform outer surface.

In certain embodiments, the second section of the body may define a transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a diameter) that decreases towards the third section, and the third section may define a transverse cross-sectional dimension that decreases towards the nozzle to facilitate passage of a product into and out of the container.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure is best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is emphasized that, according to common practice, the various features of the drawings are not to-scale. On the contrary, the dimensions of the various features are arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity.

FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of an example of a dual cap container according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the container seen in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a bottom (underside) view of the second cap of the container seen in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an exploded, perspective view of an example of a container according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a first perspective view of an example of a container according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a second perspective view of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIGS. 7 and 8 are opposite side views of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 is a front view of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIG. 10 is a rear view of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIG. 11 is a top view of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIG. 12 is a bottom (underside) view of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIG. 13 is a longitudinal (vertical) cross-sectional view of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIG. 14 is an exploded, perspective, top view of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIG. 15 is an exploded, perspective, bottom view of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIG. 16 is an exploded, side view of the container seen in FIG. 5.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a rib of a container according to another embodiment of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The figures and the following description relate to various embodiments by way of illustration only. It should be noted that from the following description, alternative embodiments of the structures and methods disclosed herein will be readily recognized as viable alternatives that may be employed without departing from the principles of what is claimed.

Embodiments according to this disclosure include a portable and miniature dual cap container or bottle that is adapted to contain a product (also referred to as a substance or material). In some implementations, the portable and miniature container only has a single cap on either end (i.e., a single top cap and corresponding single top opening or a single bottom cap and corresponding single bottom opening) as opposed to having a dual cap configuration. The portable and miniature dual cap container can be used to carry servings or varying amounts of the product. For example, the portable and miniature dual cap container can be sized to accommodate one, two, or more servings of the product and 30 grams, 60 grams, or more grams of the product. The product may be purchased in individual servings or in bulk in a large container, which is inconvenient and impractical to carry around. For example, the product may be a supplement including but not limited to a protein powder, a whey powder, organic powder, all natural powder, vegan powder, a nutritional powder, a pre-workout powder, nutritional foods, nutritional liquids, and vitamins. Protein powder may be bought in a multiple serving (e.g., 50-serving) large tub or container having a heavy weight (e.g., 3.5 pounds).

A shaker, mixer, blender, or the like bottle (collectively referred to herein as shaker bottle) may be used to carry at least one serving of the product. Shaker bottles usually have capacities of 16, 20, 28, 32, or more or less ounces. As such, they are more portable than, for example, a 3.5-pound large tub or container. A typical use of the shaker bottle may be that a person, using a scoop, pours at least one serving (e.g., two tablespoons or 30 grams) of the supplement powder (e.g., whey protein powder) into the shaker bottle; the person carries the shaker bottle to the gym; after a workout, the person adds water or another liquid (e.g., milk) to the shaker bottle, closes the lid tightly and shakes the shaker bottle to mix the powder with the liquid to form a dietary or nutritional mixture that is consumed. The shaker bottle may be washed after the person consumes the mixture. The shaker bottle may include a whisk ball, which aids in the mixing and may prevent the clumping of the supplement powder during mixing.

Many disadvantages are associated with shaker bottles. Shaker bottles are bulky and inconvenient. Shaker bottle caps can easily crack causing leaks and splashes during shaking. Shaker bottles can be prone to retaining odors when not immediately cleaned. Even if immediately washed, it may be difficult to remove powder sediments accumulated in the bottom and other corners of the shaker bottles. Other disadvantages are associated with shaker bottles. For example, it can be sub-optimal to drink from a shaker bottle due to the large top cap and nozzle area and the whisk ball can be difficult to clean and can be easily lost.

As such, a method and system in accordance with the present disclosure provides a portable container with carrier device (also referred to as a “bottle” or “container”) that does not exhibit the above-mentioned disadvantages. The portable container can be small enough to fit in a pocket or can be easily and efficiently carried on the carrier device (e.g., keychain) attached to the portable container. The container can be clipped or attached to a bag (e.g., gym bag) or an article of clothing (e.g., belt loops) via the keychain. A container according to this disclosure can be used for carrying a small amount of a product, such as one serving of a protein powder. The container is portable and miniature with a dual cap and includes a keychain that can be optional. The design of the container can be shaped to have a similar design as a large tub or container. The container can comprise a plurality of pieces including but not limited to a main hollow body (also referred to as a “body”), a bottom cap coupled to a bottom end of the main hollow body, and a top cap coupled to a top end (that is opposite the bottom end) of the main hollow body. An optional keychain (e.g., carabiner keychain) can be coupled to any of the main hollow body, top cap, and bottom cap.

Either the removable top cap or the removable bottom cap or both can be optional as well. For example, the container can comprise a single removable top cap that has a wider mouth (i.e., a “wide mouth” or “wider mouth” opening) top opening that allows the user to fill the bottle with supplement powder and to dump the supplement powder back into another bottle (e.g., a shaker bottle) using the same wider mouth top opening. In another example, the container can comprise a single removable top cap that has a funnel sized top opening that allows the user to fill the bottle with supplement powder and to insert the container into a water bottle or drink bottle opening via the funnel sized top opening to funnel the supplement powder out of the container and into the water bottle or drink bottle. In another example, the container can comprise a single removable bottom cap that has a wider mouth bottom opening that allows the user to fill the bottle with supplement powder and to dump the supplement powder back into another bottle (e.g., a shaker bottle) using the same wider mouth bottom opening. In this example, the container can still have the top cap that is fixated and cannot be removed (e.g., screwed off). In another example, the container can comprise a single removable bottom cap that has a funnel sized bottom opening that allows the user to fill the bottle with supplement powder and to insert the container into a water bottle or drink bottle opening via the funnel sized bottom opening to funnel the supplement powder out of the container and into the water bottle or drink bottle. In this example, the container can still have the top cap that is fixated and cannot be removed (e.g., screwed off). In another example, the container does not comprise any removable caps and is shaped like a miniature supplement container with a top cap that includes carrier device (e.g., carabiner keychain).

The container includes a first opening at one end (e.g., a bottom end) for receiving the product. For example, the first opening enables the scooping of one or more servings of the powder into the container from another bulk container. That is, when the bottom cap of the container is removed (e.g., unscrewed), the body of the container (more specifically, a bottom end of the body) can be used to scoop the product into to the body for storage and transportation. The bottom cap can then be reattached to the first opening to secure the product inside the container. As such, the container eliminates the need for a separate scoop, such as one that is used as described above with respect to shaker bottles. The first opening can be closed with different types of mating structures (e.g., the bottom cap) and via different attachment mechanisms (e.g., screwing, clipping, etc.) that seals the first opening. The seal can be airtight.

The container includes a second opening at an opposite end of the one end (e.g., a top end) for transferring or releasing the product into another container or bottle (e.g., a mixing container, a water bottle, a soda bottle, etc.). The second opening can be formed within a portion of the container (e.g., a nozzle also referred to as a finish portion) that is formed within the container proximate to where the container couples with the top cap. In other words, when the top cap is coupled to the body, the top cap can conceal the nozzle portion of the main body. The mixing container can be, for example, a disposable or recyclable standard water bottle that can be found at various grocery markets. As such, the second opening of the container can be substantially similar and slightly smaller (e.g., by one or more microns) in size to that of an opening of a receiving bottle (e.g., a water bottle) to enable the nozzle to be inserted into the receiving bottle. The second opening can be at least slightly smaller than that of the receiving bottle (also referred to as a mixing container) such that the product can be easily poured into the mixing container without causing any of the product to spill outside the mixing container. For example, if the mixing container is a water bottle with an opening size of 0.75 inches, then the second opening of the container can be smaller or equal to 0.75 inches. For example, the second opening can be 0.5 to 0.7 inches. Desirably, the second opening is sized so as to fit into the opening of the mixing container. The second opening can be sealed with a cap. Terms such as ‘substantially,’ generally,′ ‘approximately,’ etc., as used herein can include but is not limited to variations on the order±20%.

In some implementations, the container is a single cap container (and not a dual cap container) that only includes one single opening (i.e., either a top opening or a bottom opening and not both a top and bottom opening). Therefore, in the single cap container, the scooping and the emptying of the contents housed within the container is accomplished via the same single opening. The one single opening can have various sizes or diameters including but not limited to a wide mouth size, a funnel opening size, and other sizes.

A typical use of the portable dual cap container comprising the main body, the top cap removably coupled to the main body, and the bottom cap removably coupled to the main body can include the steps of: removing the bottom cap to expose the first opening of the main body; using the initially altered dual cap container (that now only includes the main body and the top cap coupled to the main body because the bottom cap has been removed/detached) as a scoop to scoop an amount (e.g., a small amount, at least one serving, more than two servings, etc.) of product (e.g., supplement powder) from a large tub or container into the initially altered dual cap container for storage and/or transportation; resealing the first opening by coupling or reattaching the bottom cap back to the main body to provide the dual cap container in original form factor; when ready to consume the product housed or stored within the dual cap container in original form factor, removing the top cap to expose the second opening formed via a nozzle portion of the main body; pouring or releasing or dumping the product from the subsequently altered dual cap container (that now only includes the main body and the bottom cap coupled to the main body because the top cap has been removed/detached), via the second opening formed by the nozzle portion, into a water or drink bottle with an opening that is slightly larger in diameter than the diameter of the nozzle portion (i.e., so that the nozzle portion can be inserted into the opening of the water or drink bottle) where the product can be mixed with the liquid of the water or drink bottle; and resealing the second opening with the top cap to reform the dual cap container in original form factor for future usage.

FIG. 1 is a perspective side view of a dual cap container 100 according to one embodiment of this disclosure. The dual cap container 100 can be structured as a container or as a bottle. The dual cap container 100 is in a closed state. As such, the dual cap container 100 includes a body 102, a shoulder 104 (also referred to as a transition portion), a first cap (lid) 106 (also referred to as a bottom cap), and a second cap (lid) 108 (also referred to as a top cap). In some implementations, the dual cap container 100 is a single cap container with only either the first cap 106 or the second cap 108. The body 102 can be generally vertical with a constant outer diameter. The shoulder can have a variable outer diameter and decreases in diameter as the shoulder moves away from the first cap 106 and towards the second cap 108. The body 102 is shown as circular but can also be shaped to be in a variety of shapes including but not limited to square, rectangle, elongated cylindrical, hexagonal, trapezoidal, and other shapes.

The first cap 106 is removably connected or coupled or attached (e.g., via screwing, clipping, snapping, etc.) to a bottom end of the dual cap container 100 proximate to the body 102. The first cap 106 can be used as a base upon which the dual cap container 100 can rest or stand. The first cap 106 can be removed from the dual cap container 100 to expose a first opening (also referred to as a first aperture) of the dual cap container 100. As mentioned above, the removal of the first opening enables the dual cap container 100 to be used to scoop a product, such as from a bulk container, into an internal chamber of the dual cap container 100. As the first cap 106 can be used as a base, a surface of the first cap 106 which can rest on a horizontal surface is closed such that, when the first cap 106 is connected to the body 102, and the dual cap container 100 is rested on a horizontal surface and the product contained therein is retained inside the dual cap container 100.

The second cap 108 is removably connected or coupled or attached (e.g., via screwing, clipping, snapping, etc.) to a top end of the dual cap container 100 proximate to the shoulder 104. The second cap 108 can be removed to expose a second opening (e.g., second opening 123 shown in FIG. 2) of the dual cap container 100. The top end of the dual cap container 100 includes a nozzle or finish portion (not shown in FIG. 1) that is concealed when the second cap 108 is coupled to the top end of the dual cap container 100. The nozzle or finish portion includes the second opening (also referred to as a second aperture). As mentioned above, the second opening can be used to transfer the product stored within the dual cap container 100 to another container, such as to a mixing container, which may be a water bottle. The product can be transferred to the mixing container by inserting the nozzle of the dual cap container 100 into an opening or aperture of the mixing container.

The shoulder 104 can include a stopper 110. The stopper 110 can be shaped as a ring around the top end of the dual cap container 100 that interfaces between the top end of the dual cap container 100 and the second cap 108 when the second cap 108 is attached. The stopper 110 is optional as the second cap 108 can be coupled to the top end of the dual cap container 100 so that the second cap would interface more directly or closely with the shoulder 104. The body 102 and the shoulder 104 of the dual cap container 100 can be formed as one continuous piece. Therefore, the dual cap container 100 can include separate pieces comprising the first cap 106 (i.e., the bottom cap), the body 102 and shoulder 104 continuous piece, the second cap 108, and a carrier device. As such, the shoulder 104 can have the same body diameter at a point 112 as the body 102. The shoulder 104 can slope inwardly toward the center of the dual cap container 100 such that the shoulder 104 has a second diameter (closer to the stopper 110 and away from the point 112) that is smaller than the constant diameter of the body 102. The shoulder 104 connects to the nozzle (not shown) with the stopper 110 acting as an intermediary structure.

In some embodiments, the dual cap container 100 can include a carrier device 116. The carrier device 116 can comprise a variety of devices including but not limited to a keychain, a carabiner keychain, a lanyard, a rope, a ring, a metal ring, and any combination thereof. The carrier device 116 can be attached to a top surface 118 of the second cap 108. The top surface 118 is a side of the second cap 108 that is opposite the side that is removably connected to the dual cap container 100 (e.g., via the nozzle). The top surface 118 comprises an outer surface of the second cap 108. The second cap 108 (i.e., the top cap) includes an inner surface (not shown) that comes into contact with the nozzle of the dual cap container 100. The carrier device 116 can also be attached to other surfaces of the dual cap container 100 including but not limited to a side surface of the second cap 108, to a surface of the body 102, or to a surface of the shoulder 104.

The dual cap container 100 can be shaped to be a miniature sized container. In an embodiment that does not include the carrier device 116 (e.g., a carabiner keychain), the dual cap container 100, when the first cap 106 is attached to the body 102 and the second cap 108 is attached to the top end of the dual cap container 100, can be two to four inches in height with a body diameter that can be 1.5 to two inches. Other dimensions are also possible. In other embodiments, a length of body and the body diameter of the body 102 can be such that the body 102 is of sufficient volume to hold a desired amount of the product (e.g., one or two or more servings of protein powder, pre-workout powder, etc.). For example, the dual cap container 100 can house a variety of volumes of supplement powder or other substances including but not limited to 45 cubic centimeters (cc), 75 cc, 90 cc, 150 cc, 180 cc, or other volumes. The dimensions of the container that houses 180 cc of substance would be substantially twice (i.e., two times or 2x or double) the dimensions of the container that houses 90 cc of substance. In addition, the length of body of the body 102 can be such that the dual cap container 100 resembles a shaker bottle or water bottle (i.e., a length that is much longer than the width and so the container is not shaped as a miniature supplement tub) and thus can house not only substantially more than the desired amount of the product (e.g., one or more servings) but can also house the water or other liquid (e.g., milk) that the user would like to mix the product with before consumption. The diameter of an opening of the nozzle can also be varied based on varying openings of receiving devices.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the dual cap container 100 of FIG. 1. Descriptions of elements with the same numerals as those of FIG. 1 are omitted.

The first cap 106 includes a first female mating structure 126 (also referred to as an internal mating structure) via which the first cap 106 can be removably connected to the body 102 via a first male mating structure 121 of the body 102. The first female mating structure 126 can include a first set of threaded screws and the first male mating structure 121 can include a set of threaded screws corresponding to the first set of threaded screws. The body 102 includes a ledge 120 and the first male mating structure 121 (also referred to as an external mating structure). The first cap 106 is removably connected to the body 102 by mating the first female mating structure 126 to the first male mating structure 121. The ledge 120 is a recess between the first male mating structure 121 and an outer wall of the body 102. In some implementations, the first male mating structure 121 and the first female mating structure 126 are threading mating structures. The first female mating structure 126 can be an interior threading that is formed on at least a portion of an interior wall of the first cap 106 (i.e., around an inner circumference of the first cap 106) such that when the first female mating structure 126 is mated with the first male mating structure 121, the exterior walls of the first cap 106 and the body 102 are aligned. In some implementations, the first cap 106 can include a different type of mating structure (e.g., a male mating structure) and the bottom end of the body 102 can include a different type of mating structure (e.g., a female mating structure).

The nozzle 114 (also referred to as a finish section) is shown to be positioned above the stopper 110 (also referred to as a collar) and a lip 124. The lip 124 borders the second opening 123 via which the product contained in the dual cap container 100 can be transferred out, poured out, or the like, such as to a mixing container. An outside wall of the nozzle 114 forms a mating structure (e.g., a male mating structure) that can be mated with a corresponding mating structure (e.g., a female mating structure) of the second cap 108 to seal or cover the second opening 123. The seal can be airtight. The stopper 110 includes a first collar side (not shown) and a second collar side 125. The first collar side is connected to the shoulder 104 and the second collar side 125 is connected to the nozzle 114. The mating structure of the nozzle 114 can include a threaded section that corresponds to a threaded section of the mating structure of the second cap 108.

FIG. 3 is an underside view of the second cap 108 of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective view 310 and a bottom view 320 of the second cap 108. The perspective view 310 shows an inner second cap wall 128, a gap 130, an outer second cap wall 132, and a portion of a bottom surface of the second cap 108. The gap 130 is an area between the inner second cap wall 128 and the outer second cap wall 132. The inner second cap wall 128 borders or contains a mating structure of the second cap 108 (e.g., female mating structure) that receives the nozzle 114 of the dual cap container 100 (i.e., receiving the male mating structure of the nozzle 114). In some implementations, the female mating structure of the inner second cap wall 128 includes a threading structure formed on an inside wall of the inner second cap wall 128 such that the second cap 108 can be mated with a threading structure formed on an outside wall of the nozzle 114 serving as a corresponding male mating structure. When the second cap 108 is coupled to the nozzle 114 of the dual cap container 100, the second cap 108 can rest or come in close proximity or form an airtight seal with the stopper 110 (e.g., to inhibit, if not entirely prevent, rocking of the second cap 108, or other such undesirable movement). In some implementations, the gap 130 can be such that the outer second cap wall 132 aligns with an outer circumference of the second collar side 125. In FIG. 3, the portion of the nozzle 114 shown is not part of the second cap 108. The bottom view 320 reveals the inner second cap wall 128, the gap 130, and the outer second cap wall 132.

In some implementations, a dual cap container according to this disclosure does not include the stopper 110 between the shoulder 104 and the nozzle 114. As such, the nozzle 114 connects to the shoulder 104 at the point 112. In some implementations, the second cap 108 does not include the gap 130. As such, there is only one wall of the second cap 108 instead of separate walls comprising the inner second cap wall 128 and the outer second cap wall 132.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of an example of a dual cap container 400 according to another embodiment of this disclosure. The dual cap container 400 can include similar structures as the dual cap container 100. Descriptions of elements with the same numerals as those of FIG. 1 are omitted. The dual cap container 400 differs from the from the dual cap container 100, mainly, in that the dual cap container 400 does not include a shoulder component (e.g., the shoulder 104 of FIG. 1), and does not include a stopper (e.g., the stopper 110). By not including a shoulder component, the dual cap container 100 forms a straight-edge design (i.e., there is a vertical straight-edge aligning the first cap 106, the body 102, and the second cap 108). In the dual cap container 400, a top body side 402 of the body 102 encloses the side of the body 102 that is opposite the side (i.e., bottom side) that includes the first female mating structure 126. The nozzle 114 is connected to the top body side 402. In some implementations, the centers of the nozzle 114 and the top body side 402 are aligned. The nozzle 114 includes an opening for releasing contents of the dual cap container 400 into a receiving device. The diameter of the opening can be the same as the diameter of the second opening 123 or can be varied. Additionally, when the second cap 108 is mated with the nozzle 114, the second cap 108 can rest on the top body side 402 or come in close contact or form an airtight seal. In some implementations, the outer second cap wall 132 can align with an outer circumference of the top body side 402. In other words, they can share the same or a similar diameter.

In another embodiment, the portable dual cap container can be an elongated bottle (e.g., the same height and size as a water bottle). As such, the elongated portable dual cap container can have a capacity of 20, 28, 32 ounces. The elongated portable dual cap container can have larger or smaller volumes. In some implementations, the elongated portable dual cap container can have downward tapered sides or have a continuous outer diameter. The elongated portable dual cap container have come in varying shapes including but not limited to a cylindrical shape resembling that of a shaker bottle. The elongated portable dual cap container can include a mixer ball for mixing housed contents.

The body defines an interior chamber that can house a substance. The bottle can be formed from a material that is impermeable to fluids. The material can be a plastic material (e.g., PET, PETE, HDPE, PVC, LDPE, PP, PS) that is BPA free and recyclable. The material can also be other materials that can be used to store and/or transport food and/or fluids including but not limited to glass and certain spill proof fabrics.

An embodiment according to this disclosure is a bottle. The bottle comprises a body, the body including a first end forming a first aperture and a second end forming a second aperture, the first aperture having a first diameter and the second aperture having a second diameter, the first diameter being larger than the second diameter; a first cap removably coupled to the first end of the body; and a second cap removably coupled to the second end of the body. In some implementations, the bottle further comprises a carrier device removably coupled to the second cap.

The first cap includes a first threaded section and the first end of the body includes a second threaded section, the first and the second threaded sections being configured and dimensioned for engagement such that the first cap is attachable to and removable from the first end of the body by rotation. The second cap includes a third threaded section and the second end of the body includes a fourth threaded section, the third and the fourth threaded sections being configured and dimensioned for engagement such that the second cap is attachable to and removable from the second end of the body by rotation.

The second end of the body includes a male mating portion, the male mating portion defining the second aperture and including the fourth threaded section. The male mating portion is removably inserted into an opening of a receiving device to release a substance into the receiving device. The body defines an interior chamber that houses the substance. The bottle is formed from a material that is impermeable to fluids. The body includes a main body portion having a constant outer diameter and a transition portion having a variable outer diameter. In some implementations, the bottle further comprises a stopper configured and dimensioned for engagement with the second cap, the stopper being positioned between the transition portion of the body and the second aperture. The transition portion includes a first end positioned adjacent the main body portion and a second end positioned adjacent the stopper, an outer diameter of the transition portion decreasing from the first end to the second end.

The second cap includes an outer ring portion defining a first inner diameter and an inner ring portion defining a second inner diameter, the first inner diameter being larger than the second inner diameter, the inner ring portion including the fourth threaded section. An outer diameter of the male mating portion is smaller than the second inner diameter such that the male mating portion is received by a female mating portion of the inner ring portion, and an outer diameter of the stopper is similar to the first inner diameter such that the stopper is substantially flush with the second cap. The second cap includes a receiver configured and dimensioned for mechanical connection to the carrier device such that the carrier device is attachable to and removable from the receiver, the receiver defining an opening configured and dimensioned to receive the carrier device. The carrier device comprises a carabiner keychain coupled to a ring, the ring configured and dimensioned for removable positioning within the opening defined by the receiver to facilitate the mechanical connection of the carrier device to the receiver.

In some implementations, the male mating portion defining the second aperture does not include the fourth threaded section which is instead coupled to a ringed wall structure that surrounds the male mating portion of the second end of the body. The second cap does not include an inner ring portion and only includes the outer ring portion that includes the fourth threaded section. The ringed wall structure has a diameter that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the outer ring portion of the second cap so that the ringed wall structure and the outer ring portion of the second cap can engage via reciprocal thread and fourth threaded sections.

Another embodiment according to this disclosure is a portable container. The portable container comprises a hollow body including a base portion including a base aperture defining a first diameter, a finish portion including a finish aperture defining a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, and a transition section positioned between and connecting the base portion and the finish portion; a base cap removably connected to the base portion to cover the base aperture; a finish cap removably connected to the finish portion to cover the finish aperture; and a carrier device removably connected to the finish cap. The carrier device can be optional. In this embodiment, the base aperture is larger than the finish aperture. For example, the base aperture can have an opening that is approximately 2×, 3×, 4×, 5×, etc. (based on the overall volume that can be housed by the portable container) the size of the finish aperture that is sized to fit into a standard water or drink bottle opening (i.e., the finish aperture has a funnel sized opening). The base aperture can also be substantially similar in size to the finish aperture. For example, the base aperture and finish aperture can both be “wider mouth” openings or can both be “funnel sized” openings. The base aperture can also be smaller than the finish aperture allowing the user to scoop the substance housed within the portable container using the finish aperture and to funnel the substance housed within the portable container out of the base aperture. The base cap is removably connected to the base portion via screw threads positioned on an inner circumference of the base cap and an outer circumference of the base portion. The finish cap is removably connected to the finish portion via screw threads positioned on an inner circumference of the finish cap and an outer circumference of the finish portion. The base and finish caps can be removably connected to the base portion and finish portion respectively via other mechanisms including but not limited to snaps and clips.

Another embodiment according to this disclosure is an apparatus for storing and transporting a substance. The apparatus comprises a body including opposing first and second ends, the first end including a first male mating section and the second end including a second male mating section, the first male mating section defining a first opening and a first outer diameter and the second male mating section defining a second opening and a second outer diameter; a first cap including a first female mating section configured and dimensioned to removably receive the first male mating section such that the first cap covers the first opening, the first female mating section defining a third outer diameter larger than the first outer diameter; a second cap including a second female mating section configured and dimensioned to removably receive the second male mating section such that the second cap covers the second opening, the second female mating section defining a fourth outer diameter larger than the second outer diameter; and a carrier configured and dimensioned to removably connect to any of the body, the first cap, and the second cap. A diameter of a top surface of the first cap is larger than a diameter of a top surface of the second cap.

Another embodiment according to this disclosure is a single bottom cap container. The single bottom cap container comprises a hollow body including a base portion including a base aperture defining a first diameter, a finish portion with a non-removable finish cap, and a transition section positioned between and connecting the base portion and the finish portion; a single bottom cap removably connected to the base portion to cover the base aperture; and a carrier device removably connected to the finish cap that is not removable from the finish portion (i.e., the finish portion and the finish cap are continuous). The carrier device can be optional. The single bottom cap container allows substances (e.g., supplement protein powder) to be filled into the container and emptied out of the container via the same base aperture. The single bottom cap is removably connected to the base portion via screw threads positioned on an inner circumference of the base cap and an outer circumference of the base portion. The single bottom cap can be removably connected to the base portion via other mechanisms including but not limited to snaps and clips.

Another embodiment according to this disclosure is a single top cap container. The single top cap container comprises a hollow body including a base portion, a finish portion including a finish aperture defining a second diameter smaller than the first diameter, and a transition section positioned between and connecting the base portion and the finish portion; a single top cap removably connected to the finish portion to cover the finish aperture; and a carrier device removably connected to the single top cap. The carrier device can be optional. The single top cap container allows substances (e.g., supplement protein powder) to be filled into the container and emptied out of the container via the same finish aperture. The finish aperture can be sized like a funnel (i.e., sized with a funnel sized opening) so that the finish aperture can fit into a standard water or drink bottle opening. The finish aperture can also be sized with a wider mouth opening that easily allows the container to be filled and emptied from the same top end opening (i.e., the finish aperture) of the container. The single top cap is removably connected to the finish portion via screw threads positioned on an inner circumference of the finish cap and an outer circumference of the finish portion. The single top cap can be removably connected to the base portion via other mechanisms including but not limited to snaps and clips.

With reference now to FIGS. 5-16, a container 200 in accordance with another embodiment of this disclosure will be discussed. The container 200 is substantially similar to the various embodiments discussed herein above including but not limited to the container 100 of FIG. 1 and the container 400 of FIG. 4 and, accordingly, will be described with a focus on any differences therebetween in the interest of brevity.

The container 200 includes a body 202 having upper and lower (first and second) end portions 204u, 2041, and a removable (first) cap (lid) 206. It is envisioned that the body 202 may be configured and dimensioned to accommodate any desirable volume of product. For example, in various embodiments, the body 202 may define an internal volume substantially within the range of approximately 50 cubic centimeters (cc) to approximately 350 cc, although larger and smaller volumes would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

The body 202 includes a (first or lower) body portion (section) 208i with an outer wall 210i, a (second or middle) body portion (section) 208ii with an outer wall 210ii that extends (upwardly) from the body portion 208i, and a (third or upper) body portion (section) 208iii with an outer wall 210iii that extends (upwardly) from the body portion 208ii. The outer wall 210i can also be referred to as an annular wall that is generally circular in cross-section. In the illustrated embodiment, the body portion 208i includes the outer wall 210i being generally cylindrical and defining a substantially uniform outer transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter) Di (FIG. 7). The body portion 208ii includes the outer wall 210ii having a generally arcuate configuration defining a variable outer transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter) Dii that decreases moving from the body portion 208i (the outer wall 210i) towards the body portion 208iii (the outer wall 210iii). The body portion 208iii includes the outer wall 210iii having a generally linear, tapered (e.g., frustoconical) configuration defining a variable outer transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a diameter) Diii that decreases towards the nozzle 212. The body 202 thus includes a tapered configuration that extends inwardly from the body portion 208i to a stopper 214, which extends radially outward from the body 208 (e.g., from the body portion 208iii). It is envisioned that the container 200 may be configured such that the taper forms interior surfaces of the body 202 to encourage (or otherwise facilitate) passage of the product into and out of the container 200 by reducing drag and/or resistance via the elimination of any intrusive or interruptive corners or edges. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, interior surfaces of the body 202 corresponding to the nozzle 212, the body portion 208iii, and the body portion 208ii may be formed continuously (e.g., monolithically).

The stopper 214, for example, may engage the cap 206 to frictionally retain the cap 206 on the body 202 and/or prevent over-insertion of the nozzle 212 into the cap 206. As shown, the stopper 214 may be configured as an annular flange that extends radially outward relative to the body 202. It is envisioned that the stopper 214 may be directly connected to the body portion 208iii or, alternatively, that the stopper 214 may be indirectly connected to the body portion 208iii such that the stopper 214 is positioned generally adjacent to the body portion 208iii. For example, to facilitate manufacturing, as well as the flow of product into and of the container, it is envisioned that the container 200 may include a neck 216 (FIGS. 7-10) with a generally arcuate internal configuration that acts as a transition between the body portion 208iii and the stopper 214 to further eliminate any intrusive or interruptive corners, edges, etc., that may otherwise impede the flow of product into and out of the container 200.

With particular reference to FIGS. 13-15, the upper end portion 204u of the body 202 further includes an upstanding wall 218 that may, as shown, extend (vertically upward) from the stopper 214. The upstanding wall 218 includes an outer surface 220 with a threaded section 222, and defines a maximum outer transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a maximum outer diameter) Duw that lies substantially within the range of approximately 36 mm to approximately 40 mm, although larger and smaller values for Duw would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

The nozzle 212 is spaced radially inward from the upstanding wall 218 so as to define a gap G (FIG. 14) therebetween. The nozzle 212 defines an opening 224 through which product enters and exits the container 200. More specifically, as seen in FIG. 14, for example, in the illustrated embodiment, the nozzle 212 and the upstanding wall 218 are arranged in concentric relation to define the gap G therebetween. The gap G may, for example, be positioned immediately above the outer wall 210iii. Furthermore, the upstanding wall 218 may terminate at a height (e.g., axial dimension) that is lower than the nozzle 212.

In contrast to the preceding embodiments, the nozzle 212 includes an outer surface 226 that is generally uniform in configuration. More specifically, the nozzle 212 is devoid of any threading, which allows the transverse cross-sectional dimension of the nozzle 212 to be increased (when compared to previous embodiments of the disclosure), while still allowing for insertion into the inlet of a beverage container (e.g., water bottle). For example, it is envisioned that the nozzle 212 may define a maximum outer transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a maximum outer diameter) Dn that lies substantially within the range of approximately 20 mm to approximately 23 mm, although larger and smaller values for Dn would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. In one particular embodiment, the nozzle 212 defines a maximum outer transverse cross-sectional dimension Dn of approximately 21.7 mm. With the outer surface 226 being uniform (e.g., devoid of threading), the maximum outer transverse cross-sectional dimension Dn may be increased relative to other nozzles having outer surfaces that are non-uniform (e.g., with threading) and still allow insertion of the nozzle 212 into other containers (e.g., nozzles of standard-sized beverage containers). With the outer surface 226 having a larger maximum outer diameter from being uniform, an inner surface (not labeled) of the nozzle 212 may have a larger maximum inner transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a maximum inner diameter; not labeled) as compared to those other nozzles having outer surfaces that are non-uniform. This larger maximum inner diameter may better facilitate the flow of product from the container 200 through the nozzle 212 into the beverage container. The maximum outer diameter Dn of the nozzle 212 is smaller than a maximum inner diameter of the upstanding wall 218 (not labeled) to define the gap G therebetween. A corresponding nozzle of the beverage container may be received in the gap G when the nozzle 212 is inserted therein for product of the container 200 to be poured into the beverage container.

Although the nozzle 212 is shown as being integrally (e.g., monolithically) formed with the outer wall 210iii of the body portion 208iii in the illustrated embodiment, as seen in FIG. 13, alternate constructions would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure. For example, it is envisioned that the nozzle 212 and the body portion 208iii may be formed as separate (discrete) structures that are connected together (e.g., via ultrasonic welding, or any other suitable process).

With particular reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, the (first) cap (lid) 206 will be discussed. The cap 206 includes an inner wall 228 defining a receptacle 230 that is configured to receive the nozzle 212, and an outer wall 232 that is spaced radially outward from the inner wall 228. For example, the inner wall 228 may be concentric with the outer wall 232 and form another gap (not labeled) therebetween, which generally corresponds to the gap G of the container 200. In some implementations, the inner wall 228 has a lesser height in comparison to the outer wall 232 but the inner wall 228 and outer wall 232 can have a variety of varying height levels including but not limited to same heights. In various embodiments of the disclosure, it is envisioned that the receptacle 230 may be configured to receive the nozzle 212 so as to inhibit (if not entirely prevent) the escape of product from the container 200. For example, it is envisioned that the receptacle 230 (e.g., inner surfaces of the inner wall 228 defining the receptacle and/or of an upper wall of the cap 206 defining) may engage the nozzle 212 (e.g., in radial and/or axial directions, respectively). Such engagement may form an interference (e.g., snap-fit) arrangement by which the cap 206 is retained to the nozzle 212, or the receptacle 230 and the nozzle 212 may be manufactured within tolerances that facilitate the formation of a tight-fit and/or a seal therebetween. Additionally, or alternatively, it is envisioned that a sealing member (not shown) may be positioned between the nozzle 212 and the cap 206 to further inhibit the escape of product from the container 200. The inner wall 228 of the cap 206 may have an inner diameter (not labeled) that is approximately equal to the maximum outer diameter Dn of the nozzle 212, so as to engage the nozzle 212 radially to inhibit escape of the product from the container 200.

The outer wall 232 of the cap 206 defines a transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a diameter) Dc that substantially approximates a transverse cross-sectional dimension (e.g., a diameter) Ds defined by the stopper 214 (see also FIG. 7). As a result, an axial end of the outer wall 232 may engage an upper surface of the stopper 214 to facilitate support of the cap 206 by the stopper 214 to inhibit, if not entirely prevent, rocking of the cap 206 (or other such undesirable movement), as mentioned above. Furthermore, as referenced above, the axial end of the outer wall 232 may engage the upper surface of the stopper 214 to retain the cap 206 thereon frictionally and/or to prevent further insertion of the nozzle 212 into the cap 206. It is envisioned that respective outer transverse cross-sectional dimensions Dc, Ds of the cap 206 and the stopper 214 may lie substantially within the range of approximately 40 mm to approximately 44 mm, although larger and smaller values for Dc, Ds would not be beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

To facilitate connection and disconnection of the cap 206 and the body 202, the outer wall 232 of the cap 206 includes a (second) threaded section 234 on an inner surface 236 thereof that is configured for engagement with the threaded section 222 included on the outer surface 220 of the upstanding wall 218.

In the embodiment seen in FIGS. 5-15, the body 202 further includes a (second) cap (lid) 238. As described above in connection with the embodiment seen in FIG. 2, for example, it is envisioned that the lower end portion 2041 may include a threaded section 240 that is configured for engagement with a corresponding threaded section 242 (FIG. 14) included on the cap 238 such that the cap 238 can be removed from the body 202 of the container 200 (e.g., to allow for filling and re-filling of the container 200 with the product). Alternatively, however, it is envisioned that the cap 238 may be integrally (e.g., monolithically) formed with the lower end portion 2041 (i.e., such that the cap 238 is fixedly connected to the body 202 of the container 200). In such embodiments, it is envisioned that the container 200 may be pre-filled with the product.

In FIG. 16, the container 200 includes a first cap 1610, a body 1620, and a second cap 1630. In some implementations, the container 200 can include a single cap. For example, the container 200 can include only a top cap (e.g., the first cap 1610) and no bottom cap (e.g., the second cap 1630) or the container 200 can include only a bottom cap (e.g., the second cap 1630) and no top cap (e.g., the first cap 1610). The container 200 can include ribs or other gripping patterns on either of the caps to aid the user of the container 200 with screwing and/or unscrewing either of the caps 1610 and 1630 from the body 1620. The container 200 can include a variety of clipping mechanisms on the top cap including but not limited to carabiner keychain devices that can come in variety of shapes and sizes.

FIG. 17 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a rib 1730 of a container 1700 (not fully shown) in accordance with another embodiment of this disclosure. The container 1700 is similar to container 200 of FIG. 2 with the addition of the rib 1730 which can enable better coupling between a bottom cap (e.g., second cap 1630 of FIG. 16) of the container 1700 and a main body portion (e.g., body 1620 of FIG. 16) of the container 1700 to avoid unintentional screwing and/or separation. In FIG. 17, a first set of threads 1710 that are part of the main body of the container 1700 is engaged with a second set of threads 1720 of the bottom cap. The rib 1730 includes a raised rib or ridge portion that is adjacent to a portion of the first set of threads 1710. While only one rib 1730 is shown in FIG. 17, the container 1700 could contain another rib on the opposite side. The rib 1730 helps guide the first and second threads 1710 and 1720 towards engagement and can prevent the main body from flexing and causing a popping or disengagement or unintended separation from the bottom cap.

While the disclosure has been described in connection with certain embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments but, on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures as is permitted under the law.

Persons skilled in the art will understand that the various embodiments of the disclosure described herein and shown in the accompanying figures constitute non-limiting examples, and that additional components and features may be added to any of the embodiments discussed hereinabove without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, persons skilled in the art will understand that the elements and features shown or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined with those of another embodiment without departing from the scope of the present disclosure and will appreciate further features and advantages of the presently disclosed subject matter based on the description provided. Variations, combinations, and/or modifications to any of the embodiments and/or features of the embodiments described herein that are within the abilities of a person having ordinary skill in the art are also within the scope of the disclosure, as are alternative embodiments that may result from combining, integrating, and/or omitting features from any of the disclosed embodiments.

Use of the term “optionally” with respect to any element of a claim means that the element may be included or omitted, with both alternatives being within the scope of the claim. Additionally, use of broader terms such as “comprises,” “includes,” and “having” should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as “consisting of,” “consisting essentially of,” and “comprised substantially of” Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above but is defined by the claims that follow and includes all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims.

In the preceding description, reference may be made to the spatial relationship between the various structures illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and to the spatial orientation of the structures. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of this disclosure, the structures described herein may be positioned and oriented in any manner suitable for their intended purpose. Thus, the use of terms such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “left,” “right,” “upward,” “downward,” “inward,” “outward,” etc., should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the structures and/or a spatial orientation of the structures. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the use of such terms may be provided in the context of the illustrations provided by the corresponding figure(s).

Each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the specification and represents embodiments of the present disclosure. Also, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” and “A and/or B and/or C” should each be interpreted to include only A, only B, only C, or any combination of A, B, and C.

	Number	Date	Country
Parent	15839328	Dec 2017	US
Child	PCT/US2018/065191		US

	Number	Date	Country
Parent	PCT/US2018/065191	Dec 2018	US
Child	16728391		US
Parent	29587289	Dec 2016	US
Child	15839328		US
Parent	15839328	Dec 2017	US
Child	29587289		US

Portable Container And Method Of Use

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CPC

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Abstract

Description

Claims

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

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