SELF RETAINING BOTTLE STOPPER FIXTURE ASSEMBLY

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to food and beverage accessories, and more particularly to self retaining bottle stopper fixture assemblies.

BACKGROUND

While unopened bottles of wine may last for years, once a bottle of wine is opened, it may have a limited shelf life before exposure to the environment causes the wine to take on a different, often unpleasant taste. It is generally understood that degradation of the wine occurs primarily due to a chemical reaction with oxygen, which in some cases can enable bacterial growth.

To date, various methods and devices have been developed to aid in extending the shelf life of an opened bottle of wine. One preservation method includes applying a low-grade vacuum to the headspace above the wine, thereby removing as much air as possible from the interior of the bottle. Another preservation method includes displacing the volume of consumed wine with an inert material to reduce the headspace above the wine. For example, glass marbles can be placed into the bottle to decrease the headspace. Alternatively, the air within the headspace can be displaced by an inert gas or inflatable bladder.

More recently developed preservation systems include a bottle stopper containing a deoxygenation material configured to chemically react with and consume oxygen trapped within the bottle. Such preservation systems are disclosed in PCT Application No. PCT/US2017/057605, filed Oct. 20, 2017, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

Referring to FIG. 1A-B, a sealing device 100 of the prior art is depicted. The sealing device 100 can include a housing 102 and a resilient seal member 104. The housing 102 can generally be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material, and can generally be cylindrical in shape, having a distal end 106 for insertion into the bottle, and a proximal end 108 opposite to the distal end. An interior wall 110 of the housing 102 can define an oxygen scavenging compartment 112, and a conduit 114 extending through the distal end 106 of the housing 102. An oxygen absorbing material 116, such as an iron-based powder with sodium chloride, can be positioned within the oxygenation scavenging compartment 112. The oxygen absorbing material 116 can be sealed within the oxygen scavenging compartment 112 via a lid member 118, which can be operably coupled to the proximal end 108 of the main housing 102. In some cases, a mesh or filter 120 can be positioned adjacent to the oxygen absorbing material 116 opposite to the lid member 118 to aid in retaining the oxygen absorbing material within the oxygen scavenging compartment 112. The resilient seal member 104 can be configured to surround at least a portion of the housing 102, and can have a generally frustoconical shape including a plurality of ridges or ribs 122 configured to enhance sealing contact with the opening of the bottle.

Referring to FIG. 1C, in operation, the sealing device 100 can be inserted into the opening of a bottle B. Thereafter, the oxygen absorbing material 116 can begin to remove any oxygen within the bottle, including both the headspace H above the wine and the wine W itself. In some cases, the level of oxygen within the bottle can be reduced to 0.05% (or roughly 0.03 ppm), thereby significantly slowing the degradation process.

Although sealing devices of the prior art work well in removing oxygen trapped within sealed bottles, it has been found that the sealing devices cannot consistently hold back the internal pressure developed within the bottles of sparkling wines, champagnes, and other carbonated beverages. Often, the pressure built up within the bottles causes a break in the seal between the sealing device and the bottle, thereby exposing the contents of the bottle to the atmosphere, which hastens degradation of the beverage. Applicant of the present disclosure has identified a need for a bottle stopper and method to address this concern.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a self retaining deoxygenating system configured to maintain an effective seal while preserving sparkling wines, champagne and other carbonated beverages through the use of an adjustable mechanism configured to at least partially counteract the pressure exerted against the bottle stopper from within the bottle. Moreover, because the mechanism configured to counteract the pressure within the bottle is adjustable, embodiments of the present disclosure can be utilized with a wide variety of bottle designs and configurations.

One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly configured to seal an opening of a bottle to preserve and oxygen sensitive substance under pressure therein. The bottle stopper can include a sealing device, anchor member, and sealing device retainer. The sealing device can be configured to be inserted into and establish a seal with the opening of the bottle. The sealing device can include oxygen absorbing material configured to absorb oxygen within the bottle. The anchor member can have a band configured to at least partially surround a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening. The sealing device retainer can have a retaining portion configured to be positioned atop of the sealing device and one or more anchor coupling portions configured to selectively couple to the anchor member, thereby applying pressure to the top of the sealing device to at least partially counteract a pressure acting against the sealing device from within the bottle.

In one embodiment, the anchor member can further comprise one or more arms configured to selectively coupled to the anchor coupling portions of the sealing device retainer. In one embodiment, the one or more arms of the anchor member can include a plurality of ratchets configured to interface with one or more catches of the respective anchor coupling portions of the sealing device retainer. In one embodiment, the anchor member at least partially surrounds a neck of the bottle. In one embodiment, the anchor member is constructed of a semi resilient material configured to enable temporary deformation during positioning of the anchor member around at least a portion of the bottle. In one embodiment, the band of the anchor member further comprises a stress relief portion configured to enable temporary deformation of the anchor member during positioning of the anchor member around at least a portion of the bottle. In one embodiment, the stress relief portion comprises a slack portion of the band, having one or more bends configured to extend outwardly from the bottle when the anchor member is positioned around at least a portion of the bottle. In one embodiment, the sealing retainer device further comprises a ring configured to surround at least a portion of the sealing device and/or bottle, when the sealing device retainer is positioned atop the sealing device. In one embodiment, the anchor coupling portions are operably coupled to the ring of the sealing device retainer. In one embodiment, the retaining portion of the sealing device has a generally U-shaped configuration. In one embodiment, the retaining portion of the sealing device retainer is conformed to at least partially encapsulate a distal end of the sealing device. In one embodiment, the one or more anchor coupling portions of the sealing device retainer extend substantially orthogonal from the retaining portion. In one embodiment the one or more anchor coupling portions include a plurality of ribs configured to interface with one or more catches of the respective arms of the anchor member. In one embodiment the anchor member and sealing device retainer are operably coupled to one another via one or more elastic members.

Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method of sealing an opening of a bottle to preserve and oxygen sensitive substance under pressure therein. The method can include providing a sealing device including an oxygen absorbing material configured to absorb oxygen within the bottle, and anchor member, and a sealing device retainer having a retaining portion and one or more anchor coupling portions. The method can further include positioning the sealing device within the opening of the bottle and establishing a seal between the sealing device and the opening of the bottle, positioning the anchor member at least partially around a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening, and positioning the retainer portion of the sealing device retainer atop of the sealing device and operably coupling the one or more anchor coupling portions to the anchor member, so as to apply pressure to the top of the sealing device to at least partially counteract a pressure acting against the sealing device from within the bottle.

Another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly configured to seal an opening of a bottle and to preserve and oxygen sensitive substance under pressure therein. The bottle stopper can include a sealing device, a band, and a retaining portion. The sealing device can be configured to be inserted into and establish a seal with an opening of the bottle. The sealing device can include oxygen absorbing material configured to absorb oxygen within the bottle. The band can be configured to at least partially surround a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening. The band can have a first portion and a second portion configured to shift relative to one another between an installation/removal position and a gripping position. The retaining portion can be operably coupled to the band, and can be configured to apply pressure to the top of the sealing device to at least partially counteract the pressure acting against the sealing device from within the bottle.

In one embodiment, the band can include at least one coupling configured to enable the first portion to shift relative to the second portion between the installation/removal position and a gripping position. In one embodiment, the at least one coupling can be a threaded coupling. In one embodiment, the band can further include a hinge. In one embodiment the retaining portion can include a first side, top, and opposing second side. In one embodiment, the first side and the second side can be operably coupled to the band such that they are offset from a longitudinal axis of the bottle.

In one embodiment, a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly configured to seal an opening of a bottle and to preserve and oxygen sensitive substance under pressure therein includes a cover, a rubber insert, and a sealing ring. The cover includes a sidewall, with a plurality of fingers depending from a bottom end of the sidewall. The rubber insert fits within an inner surface of the fingers. An external surface of the cover includes threading that is configured to threadingly engage a threaded inner surface of the sealing ring. Once the assembly is placed over a bottle with a stopper inserted therein, the sealing ring is rotated and tightened to the cover such that the fingers press inwardly against the insert, causing the insert to tighten against the neck of the bottle, thereby securing the assembly and the stopper to the bottle such that the bottle can be transported and/or stored on its side, and/or an oxygen sensitive material or beverage under pressure is preserved.

The summary above is not intended to describe each illustrated embodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure. The figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify these embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure can be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the disclosure, in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view depicting a sealing device in the form of a deoxygenating stopper of the prior art.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view depicting the sealing device of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a profile view depicting the sealing device of FIG. 1A being inserted into a beverage container.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view depicting a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly in accordance with a first embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2B is an alternative perspective view depicting the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view depicting a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly in accordance with a second embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3B is an alternative perspective view depicting the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view depicting a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly in accordance with a third embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4B is an alternative perspective view depicting the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view depicting a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5B is a top view depicting the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C-F are profile views depicting the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view depicting a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6B is a top view depicting the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C-F are profile views depicting the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 7B is a front elevational view of the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is a right elevational view of the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 7A.

FIGS. 8A-8K depict step by step use of the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIGS. 7A-7C.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the disclosure positioned on a neck of a bottle.

FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a combination of the self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly of FIGS. 9A and a bottle stopper positioned on a neck of a bottle.

FIG. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 10A.

FIGS. 11A-11J are sequential views of securing the fixture assembly of FIGS. 9A and 9B and stopper to a bottle.

While embodiments of the disclosure are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof shown by way of example in the drawings will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the disclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the subject matter as defined by the claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, a sealing device 100 in the form of a bottle stopper containing a deoxygenating or oxygen scavenging agent is depicted. Details of the sealing device 100 are described in the Background section above. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that the fixture assemblies according to embodiments described herein can be used with an oxygen scavenging stopper as described above, or can be used with a standard synthetic or natural cork or bottle stopper without oxygen scavenging capabilities.

Referring to FIGS. 2A-2B, a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly 200 is depicted in accordance with a first embodiment of the disclosure. In one embodiment, the fixture assembly 200 can include a sealing device 100, anchor member 202, and sealing device retainer 204. The sealing device 100 can be substantially as described in connection with FIGS. 1A-1C.

The anchor member 202 can include a band 206 configured to at least partially surround a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening at the top of the bottle. For example, in one embodiment, the band 206 can form a ring or split ring configured to at least partially encircle the neck of the bottle. In one embodiment, the ring or split ring can have a radius shaped and sized to generally conform to the neck of a bottle.

In some embodiments, the band 206 can be constructed of a semi-resilient material configured to enable temporary deformation during positioning of the anchor member around at least a portion of the bottle. For example, in some embodiments, the band 206 can have a natural bias, such that a user must counteract the natural bias of the band 206 to position the band 206 around the neck of the bottle, such that when positioned the band 206 effectively grips the outer diameter of the bottle on which it is positioned. In some embodiments, the band 206 can further include a stress relief portion 208 configured to enable temporary deformation of the anchor member 202 during positioning of the anchor member around the bottle. In some embodiments, the stress relief portion 208 can comprise a slack portion 210 extending outwardly from the bottle, when the anchor member 202 is positioned around at least a portion of the bottle. To aid in flexibility and enhance the natural bias of the band 202, and some embodiments, the stress relief portion 208 can further include one or more arcs or bends 212 having a radius or radii smaller than a radius of the band 206.

In one embodiment, the band 206 can be configured to be positioned just below a ridge or contour extending radially outward from the neck of the bottle, thereby inhibiting the band 206 from sliding upward off the neck of the bottle. One or more arms 214 can extend from the band 206. For example, in one embodiment, a pair of arms 214A/B can extend upwardly from the band 206, when the band 206 is positioned around at least a portion of the bottle. In some embodiments, the arms 214A/B can include a plurality of ratchets 216 configured to interact with corresponding portions of the sealing device retainer 204 when in use. For example, in one embodiment, each arm 214 can include six or more ratchets 216, with the spacing of approximately 1/16 of an inch between ratchets 216, although other rachet configurations are also contemplated. In one embodiment, an applied tension on the anchor member 202 and sealing device retainer 204 can cause the anchor member 202 and sealing device retainer 204 to deform up to at least the distance defining the space between the one or more ratchets 216, thereby enabling a user improved control of the opposing force provided by the fixture assembly 200. In one embodiment, the arms 214A/B can be angled slightly away from the bottle, so as to promote improved contact and retention with the sealing device retainer 204.

The sealing device retainer 204 can include a retaining portion 218 and one or more anchor coupling portions 220. The retaining portion 218 can be configured to be positioned atop of the sealing device 100 during use. In one embodiment, the retaining portion 218 can generally have a U-shaped configuration, such that the retaining portion 218 extends along a first side, top, and opposing second side of the sealing device 100, although other retaining portion 218 configurations are also contemplated.

In one embodiment, the sealing device retainer 204 can further include a ring 222 configured to at least partially surround the sealing device 100 and/or bottle, when the sealing device retainer 204 is positioned atop of the sealing device 100. In one embodiment, the anchor coupling portions 220 can be operably coupled, or incorporated into the ring 222. Accordingly, the ring 222 need not be circular in shape, but rather can be any continuous structure. In other embodiments, the anchor coupling portions 220 can be directly coupled to the retaining portion 218. In some embodiments, the anchor coupling portions 220 can include one or more catches 224 configured to interact with the ratchets 216 of the arms 214 of the anchor member 202, thereby enabling positional adjustment of the sealing device retainer 204 relative to the anchor member 202.

In operation, a user can position the sealing device 100 within the opening of a bottle and establish a seal between the sealing device 100 and the opening of the bottle. A user can position the anchor member 202 at least partially around a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening. For example, in one embodiment, the band 206 of the anchor member 202 can be temporarily deformed as the user positions the band 206 around the neck of the bottle. A natural bias of the band 206 can cause the band 206 to effectively grip the neck of the bottle. To aid in retention, the band 206 can be positioned just below a ridge or contour extending radially outward from the neck of the bottle, thereby inhibiting the band 206 from sliding upward off the neck of the bottle.

A user can then position the sealing device retainer 204 a top of the sealing device 100. The arms 214 of the anchor member 202 can be inserted into the anchor coupling portions 202 of the sealing device retainer. The position of the sealing device retainer 204 can then be adjusted relative to the anchor member 202 until a desired downward pressure against the sealing member 100 is established. In one embodiment, the sealing device retainer 204 is held in position relative to the anchor member 202 by the interaction between the ratchets 216 and the catches 224. A natural resiliency of the anchor member 202 and sealing device retainer 204 can serve as an aid in maintaining the desired downward pressure against the sealing member 100. Further, because the position of the anchor member 202 and sealing device 204 are adjustable relative to one another, the fixture assembly 200 can be used with a wide variety of bottle designs and configurations.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-3B, a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly 300 is depicted in accordance with a second embodiment of the disclosure. The fixture assembly 300 can generally include a sealing device 100, anchor member 302 and sealing device retainer 304. The sealing device 100 can be substantially as described in connection with FIGS. 1A-1C.

The anchor member 302 can include a band 306 configured to at least partially surround a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening at the top of the bottle. For example, in one embodiment, the band 306 can form a ring or split ring configured to at least partially encircle the neck of the bottle. In one embodiment, the ring or split ring can have a radius shaped and sized to generally conform to the neck of the bottle.

In some embodiments, the band 306 can be constructed of a semi-resilient material configured to enable temporary deformation during positioning of the anchor member 302 around at least a portion of the bottle. For example, in some embodiments, the band 306 can have a natural bias, such that a user must counteract the natural bias of the band 306 when positioning the band 306 around the neck of the bottle, such that when positioned, the band effectively grips the outer diameter of the bottle.

One or more connectors or arms 314 can extend from the band 306. For example, in one embodiment, a pair of arms 314A/B can extend radially outwardly from the band 306, when the band 306 is positioned at least partially around a portion of the bottle. In some embodiments, the arms 314 can include a notch 326 configured to interact with corresponding portions of the sealing device retainer 306 when in use.

The sealing device retainer 304 can include a retaining portion 318 and one or more anchor coupling portions 320. The retaining portion 318 can be configured to be positioned atop of the sealing device 100 during use. In one embodiment, the retaining portion 318 can be configured to at least partially encapsulate a top or distal end of the sealing device 100. For example, in one embodiment, the retaining portion 318 can generally be formed as a cup defining a cavity configured to encapsulate the top or distal end of the sealing device 100, although other retaining portion 318 configurations are also contemplated.

The anchor coupling portions 320 can be operably coupled to the retaining portion 318. In one embodiment, the anchor coupling portions 320 can extend downwardly from the retaining portion 318, when the sealing device retainer 304 is positioned atop of the sealing device 100. In some embodiments, a pair of anchor coupling portions 320A/B can each include a plurality of ribs 316 configured to interact with the corresponding notches 326 of the anchor member 302, thereby enabling positional adjustment of the sealing device retainer 304 relative to the anchor member 302. For example, in one embodiment, each anchor coupling portion 320 can include six or more ribs 316, with the spacing of approximately 1/16 of an inch between ribs 316, although other rib configurations are also contemplated.

In operation, a user can position the sealing device 100 within the opening of a bottle and establish a seal between the sealing device 100 and the opening of the bottle. A user can position the anchor member 302 at least partially around a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening. For example, in one embodiment, the band 306 of the anchor member 302 can be temporarily deformed as the user positions the band 306 around the neck of the bottle. A natural bias of the band 306 can cause the band 306 to effectively grip the neck of the bottle. To aid in retention, the band 306 can be positioned just below a ridge or contour extending radially outward from the neck of the bottle, thereby inhibiting the band from sliding upward off the neck of the bottle.

A user can then position the sealing device retainer 304 atop of the sealing device 100. The anchor coupling portions 320 of the sealing device retainer can be operably coupled with the arms 314 and/or notches 326 of the anchor member 302. The position of the sealing device retainer 304 can be adjusted relative to the anchor member 302 until a desired downward pressure against the sealing member 100 is established. In one embodiment, the sealing device retainer 302 is held in position relative to the anchor member 302 by the interaction between the ribs 316 and the notches 326. A natural resiliency of the anchor member 302 and sealing device retainer 304 can serve as an aid in maintaining the desired downward pressure against the sealing member 100.

Referring to FIGS. 4A-4B, a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly 400 is depicted in accordance with a third embodiment of the disclosure. The fixture assembly 400 can generally include a sealing device 100, anchor member 402, and sealing device retainer 404. The sealing device 100 can be substantially as described in connection with FIGS. 1A-1C.

Anchor member 402 can include a band 406 configured to at least partially surround a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening at the top of the bottle. For example, in one embodiment, the band 406 can form a ring or split ring configured to at least partially encircle the neck of the bottle. In one embodiment, the ring or split ring can have a radius shaped and sized to generally conform to the neck of the bottle.

In some embodiments, the band 406 can be constructed of a semi-resilient material configured to enable temporary deformation during positioning of the anchor member 402 around at least a portion of the bottle. For example, in some embodiments, the band 406 can have a natural bias, such that a user must counteract the natural bias of the band 406 to position the band 406 around the neck of the bottle, such that when positioned the band 406 effectively grips the outer diameter of the bottle.

One or more arms 414 can extend from the band 406. For example, in one embodiment, a pair of arms 414A/B can extend radially outward from the band 406, when the band 406 is positioned around at least a portion of the bottle. In some embodiments, the arms 414A/B can include a retention groove 426 configured to operably couple the anchor member 402 to the sealing device 404.

The sealing device retainer 404 can include a retaining portion 418 and one or more anchor coupling portions 420A/B. The retaining portion 418 can be configured to be positioned atop of the sealing device 100 during use. In one embodiment, the retaining portion 418 can be configured to at least partially encapsulate a top or distal end of the sealing device 100. For example, in one embodiment, the retaining portion 418 can generally be formed as a cup defining a cavity configured to encapsulate the top or distal end of the sealing device 100, although other retaining portion 418 configurations are also contemplated.

The anchor coupling portions 420 can be operably coupled to the retaining portion 418. In one embodiment, a pair of anchor coupling portions 420A/B can extend generally upward from the retaining portion 418, when the sealing device retainer 404 is positioned atop of the sealing device. In one embodiment, the fixture assembly 400 can further include one or more elastic members 430 configured to be operably coupled between the anchor coupling portions 420A/B of the sealing device retainer 404 and the retention grooves 426A/B of the anchor member 402. In some embodiments, the fixture assembly 400 can include a pair of elastic members 430A/B. A natural bias in the elastic members 430 can serve to maintain a desired downward pressure of the sealing device retainer 404 against the sealing member 100.

In operation, a user can position the sealing device 100 within the opening of a bottle and establish a seal between the sealing device 100 and the opening of the bottle. A user can position the anchor member 402 at least partially around a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening. For example, in one embodiment, the band 406 of the anchor member 402 can be temporarily deformed as the user positions the band 406 around the neck of the bottle. A natural bias of the band 406 can cause the band 406 to effectively grip the neck of the bottle. To aid in retention, the band 406 can be positioned just below a ridge or contour extending radially outward from the neck of the bottle, thereby inhibiting the band 406 from sliding upward off the neck of the bottle.

A user can then positioned the sealing device retainer 404 atop of the sealing device 100. One or more elastic members 430 can be applied to bias the sealing device retainer 404 towards the anchor member 404. A natural resiliency of the elastic members 430 can serve as an aid in maintaining the desired downward pressure against the sealing member 100.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5F, a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly 500 is depicted in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the disclosure. The fixture assembly 500 can generally include a sealing device 100 and sealing device retainer 502. The sealing device 100 can be substantially as described in connection with FIGS. 1A-1C.

The sealing device retainer 502 can include a band 504 configured to at least partially surround a portion of a bottle proximal to the opening at the top of the bottle. For example, in one embodiment, at least a portion of the band 504 can be semicircular in shape, and can have a radius shaped and sized to generally conform to the neck of the bottle. In one embodiment, the band 504 can include a first portion 506A and a second portion 506B, wherein the first and second portions 506A/B are operably coupled to one another. In embodiments, the band 504 is adjustable to accommodate a variety of neck sizes.

In one embodiment, the first portion 506A can be coupled to the second portion 506B via one or more couplings 508. For example, in one embodiment, a pair of couplings 508A/B can be employed; although other quantities of couplings 508 are also contemplated. In one embodiment, the one or more couplings 508 can be threaded couplings; although other coupling structures, such as a ratcheting structure (like those described in previous embodiments) are also contemplated.

In one embodiment, the band 504 can be configured to be positioned around an outer diameter of the top of a bottle. The couplings 508A/B, which can include an adjustment knob 510A/B, can be manipulated to affect a change in position of the first portion 506A relative to the second portion 506B between an installation/removal position and a gripping position. In one embodiment, the couplings 508A/B can be pivotably coupled to at least one of the first portion 506A or the second portion 506B, thereby enabling greater maneuverability in the installation/removal position, as well as improved conformance to the neck of the bottle gripping position. Further, because the position of the first member 506A and the second member 506B are adjustable relative to one another, the fixture assembly 500 can be used with a wide variety of bottle designs and configurations.

The sealing device retainer 502 can further include a retaining portion 512 operably coupled to the band 504. For example, in one embodiment, the retaining portion 512 and the band 504 can be formed as a monolithic or unitary member. In other embodiments, the retaining portion 512 and the band 504 can be formed as separate components. The sealing device retainer 502 can be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material, such as metal or plastic. In some embodiments, a natural resiliency of the sealing device retainer 502 can serve as an aid in maintaining the desired downward pressure against the sealing member 100.

The retaining portion 512 can be configured to be positioned atop of the sealing device 100 during use. In one embodiment, the retaining portion 512 can generally have a U-shaped configuration, such that the retaining portion 512 extends along a first side 514A, top 516, and opposing second side 514B of the sealing device 100; although other retaining portion 512 configurations are also contemplated.

To aid in enabling installation/removal of the fixture assembly 500 from a bottle, in one embodiment, the first side 514A and the second side 514B can be operably coupled to the band 504, such that they are offset from a longitudinal axis of the bottle. For example, the first side 514A and the second side 514B can be substantially orthogonally coupled to the semicircular band 504 at an angle □ less than 180°, as measured from a longitudinal axis of the bottle. For example, in one embodiment, the angle □□□ can be approximately 135°; although other angles are also contemplated. In such embodiments, the top 516 can be shaped and sized such that at least a portion of the top 516 is positionable over a center of the sealing device when installed in the opening of a bottle. For example, in one embodiment, the top 516 can have an arcuate shape.

In operation, a user can position the sealing device 100 within the opening of a bottle and establish a seal between the sealing device 100 and the opening of the bottle. The user can position the band 504 at least partially around a portion of the bottle proximal to the opening. In particular, the user can loosen the couplings 508A/B of the band 504, thereby enabling the first portion 506A and the second portion 506B to freely move apart from one another in the installation/removal position.

The position of the sealing device retainer 502 can then be adjusted relative to the sealing device 100 until a desired down pressure against the sealing device 100 is established. The user can then tighten the couplings 508A/B, thereby causing the first portion 506A and the second portion 506B to be forced together to the gripping position, so as to effectively grip the outer diameter of the bottle to inhibit the band from sliding upward off the neck of the bottle. To aid in retention, the band 506 can be positioned just below a ridge or contour extending radially outward from the neck of the bottle, thereby further inhibiting the band 504 from sliding upward off the neck of the bottle.

Referring to FIGS. 6A-6F, a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly 600 is depicted in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the disclosure. The self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly 600 can be similar to the previous embodiment (as depicted in FIGS. 5A-5F) with the exception that the first portion 606A and the second portion 606B of the band 604 can be operably coupled to one another via the combination of a hinge 608 and a coupling 610. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the coupling 610, which can include an adjustment knob 612, can be manipulated to affect a change in position of the first portion 506A relative to the second portion 506B between an installation/removal position and a gripping position. In the installation/removal position, loosening of the coupling 610 can enable the second portion 606B to freely pivot via the hinge 608 relative to the first portion 606A, thereby enabling greater maneuverability in the installation/removal position.

Referring to FIGS. 7A-7C, a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly 700 is depicted in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the disclosure. In one embodiment, the fixture assembly 700 is shaped to cover and retain a sealing device 100, as substantially as described in connection with FIGS. 1A-1C, within a container, such as a necked bottle. Fixture assembly 700 generally includes a top cage member 702, and a pair of arms 704A/B extending downward from top member 702 on opposite sides thereof. Top cage member 702 generally includes a top 703 and a sidewall 706 extending downwardly from top 703 on one or more sides thereof. Cage member 702 is configured to fit over sealing device 100, or a standard cork, and can optionally include structure defining cutouts 708 so that the sealing device 100 is viewable therethrough in order to determine a position of sealing device 100 within a bottle or other container.

A longitudinal section 705A/B of arms 704A/B are coupled to cage member 702 on each sidewall 706 via arcuate neck portion 710. Arcuate neck portion 710 bows or curves outwardly from wall portion 706 such that sections 705A/B are spaced farther apart than sidewalls 706. Neck portion 710 also provides a degree of flexure to arms 704A/B to allow arms 704A/B to accommodate a variety of bottle neck sizes, while providing sufficient rigidness to allow a friction fit over a bottle neck.

Each arm portion 705 terminates at a distal end from neck portion 710 with recessed section 712. Recessed section 712 steps inwardly from each section 705A/B such that recessed section 712 of one arm 704A is spaced from arm 704B at a similar distance or the same distance as sidewalls 706. Recessed section 712 is sized to fit a retaining strap 714 (depicted in FIGS. 8A-8K). Each arm 704A/B can optionally include structure defining one or more strap loops 716 configured for securing strap 714 to fixture assembly 700.

In one particular yet non-limiting example, recessed section 712A of arm 704A includes a single strap loop 716, while recessed section 712B of arm 704B includes two strap loops 716. In this embodiment, a retaining strap can be snaked through the loops in a configuration that does not require additional bonding of strap 714 to fixture assembly 700. For example, and referring to FIGS. 8A-8K a hook and loop strap 714 can be utilized to removably secure fixture assembly 700 to a bottle, in which at least a portion of a first side of strap 714 includes loops 718, while a at least a portion of a second side of strap 714 includes engaging hooks 720 configured to engage loops 718. Strap 714 can be looped through loops 716 such that the hook and loop sides secure onto each other. In another embodiment (not shown), a first strap containing one of hook and loop is secured to the first arm (e.g. at loop 716), while a second strap containing the other of hook and loop is secured to the second arm (e.g. at loop 716), such that when overlapped, the hook and loop engage.

In alternative embodiments not shown, other securing devices can be used, such as a zip tie, a fine toothed ratchet mechanism (knob or lever), a belt with closely spaced notches, or any of a variety of securing devices can be used.

Referring back to FIGS. 7A-7C, a grip section 722 extends longitudinally from each recessed section 712. Grip section 722 can be sized and shaped to grip the neck of a bottle and to prevent fixture assembly 700 from spinning or rotating when being secured to the bottle. In one example, grip section 722 is generally tear drop in shape. Grip section 722 can optionally include a tacky or grip material, such as rubber, over-molded or otherwise formed over ends of arms 704A/B.

In embodiments, fixture assembly 700 is monolithic and is formed of a plastic or polymeric material. In one embodiment not shown, a living hinge extends bisects the center of top portion 702. This allows greater flexibility of arms 704A/B, and in certain embodiments, arms 704A/B can extend can 90 degrees from their resting position when top portion is completed folded on itself such that the arms are 180 degrees spaced from each other. In other embodiments, fixture assembly 700 is formed from metal, or a combination of plastic and metal. In some embodiments, stopper is recyclable. In some embodiments, fixture assembly 700 is not monolithic and is instead an assembly of discrete pieces formed separately of one or more materials.

In embodiments fixture assembly 700 provides sufficient flexibility to fit over and secure stoppers to bottles with next diameters ranging from 0.5″ to 2.0″ and more particularly from 1″ to 1.5″.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A-8B, in use, a fixture assembly 700 is provided to secure a sealing device 100 to a bottle B. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that sealing device 100 can be instead the original cork or any of a variety of other sealing devices. Referring to FIG. 8C and 8D, once sealing device 100 is secured to bottle B, unfastened stopper is placed over sealing device 100 such that arms 704 move along the neck of bottle B. Referring to FIGS. 8E and 8F, fixture assembly 700 is fit over sealing device 100 by pressing on top portion 702 until top portion 702 contacts the top of sealing device 100, and the sealing device 100 with fixture assembly 700 are secured within the neck of bottle B.

Referring now to FIG. 8G, a user presses on grip portion 722 of each arm 704 to tighten fixture assembly 700 on the neck. Referring to FIG. 8H, strap 714 is tightened around the neck of bottle B while pressing on grip portion 722 to ensure a tight fight of fixture assembly 700 over device 100 and bottle B, while preventing rotation of fixture assembly 700 and/or sealing device 100. Referring to FIGS. 8I and 8J, strap 714 is wrapped around the neck until it overlaps and the overlapping hook and loop portions engage to secured fixture assembly 700 and sealing device 100 to the bottle B. Referring now to FIG. 8K, sealing device 100 is adequately secured to the bottle B.

Referring to FIGS. 9A-9B, a self retaining bottle stopper fixture assembly 900 is depicted in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the disclosure. Assembly 900 is a three piece assembly, including a top cover 902, an annular insert 904 such as a band or o-ring, and a threaded securing ring 906 fitter over top cover 902 to secure assembly 900 to a container such as a bottle B. However, more or less pieces can be contemplated.

Referring to FIGS. 9B, top cover 902 includes an annular sidewall 908 dimensioned to fit over a stopper 100 as previously described. Sidewall 908 can optionally include structure defining one or more openings 910. A top end of sidewall 908 terminates to form an annular collar 912, which includes structure defining an opening 914. A bottom end of sidewall 908 terminates at a transitional section 916, which widens or flares to connect sidewall 908 to a threaded bottom portion 918. Threaded bottom portion 918 includes threads 920 formed on an exterior surface thereof, the threads 920 being configured to threadingly engage with threads 922 formed on an inner surface of securing ring 906. Cover 902 further includes structure defining a plurality of fingers 924 extending longitudinally below or depending from a bottom end of threaded portion 918. Fingers 924 terminate to form a bottom annular section or collar 926.

Insert 904 includes a sidewall 928 and a bottom longitudinal skirt 930 extending from or depending from a bottom end of sidewall 928, and forming a 90 degree shoulder 932. A top end of sidewall 928 includes an angled flange 934, which abuts the bottom end of threaded portion 918, when assembled. When assembled, shoulder 932 abuts collar 926 and flange 934 abuts threaded portion 918 such that sidewall 928 fits into top cover 902 and an entirety of an external surface of sidewall 928 abuts an inner surface of fingers 924, similar to a mortise and tenon fitting.

In embodiments, cover 902 and ring 906 can be formed of natural and/or synthetic materials, such as plastic or polymeric materials, while insert 904 comprises a material such as natural or synthetic rubber. In other embodiments, all of or some of cover 902, ring 906, and/or insert 904 can be formed of a polymeric material, rubber, or combinations thereof.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A and 10B, when assembly 900 is secured to bottle B, stopper 100 is positioned within the neck N of bottle B such that ribs 122 are in sealing contact with an inner surface of the neck N. Sidewall 908 of cover 902 covers stopper 100 such that collar 912 abuts lid 188 of stopper 100. Stopper 100 is viewable via openings 910 and 912 of sidewall 908. Threaded portion 918 and fingers 924 extend over neck N. Insert 904 surrounds and grips neck N, while abutting the inner surface of fingers 924. Ring 906 is threadingly secured to threaded portion 918. When ring 906 is tightened by rotating ring 906 around threaded portion 918 to engage the corresponding threads, fingers 924 press inwardly against angled flange 934, thereby squeezing fingers 924 against insert 904, which in turn, tightens against bottle B. thereby securing the assembly 900 and stopper 100 to bottle B. Due to the combination of the flexibility of fingers 924 and ring 904, the assembly 900 is versatile in that it can be used for any of a variety of bottle neck sizes and shapes.

Now referring to FIGS. 11A-11J, in use, a bottle stopper fixture assembly 900 is used to secure a stopper 100 to a bottle B. In FIG. 11A, a bottle B with stopper 100, such as the deoxygenating stopper described above is provided. In FIGS. 11B and 11C, a fixture assembly 900 is provided in an unassembled state including cover 902 with fingers 924 and threaded portion 918, insert 904 with angled flange 934, and ring 906, as previously described. In FIG. 11D, insert 904 is inserted into cover 902 such that insert 904 is fitted within fingers 924. In FIG. 11E, cover 902 with insert (not shown) are fitted into ring 906. In FIG. 11F, assembly 900 is assembled and ready for use. In alternative embodiments, assembly 900 may provided with insert 904 already fitted within cover 902 and/or with cover 902 and insert 904 already fitted within ring 906.

In FIGS. 11G-11I, assembled stopper fixture assembly 900 is fitted over stopper 100 and bottle B until collar 912 abuts lid 118 of stopper 100. In FIG. 11I, ring 906 is rotated, such as in a clockwise direction or vice versa depending on the threading configuration, such that it threadingly engages threaded portion (not shown) of cover 902, thereby pressing fingers inwardly into insert (not shown) and tightening insert (not shown) onto the neck of bottle B. In FIG. 11J, the assembly 900 is secured to bottle B such that stopper 100 cannot be removed without removing assembly 900.

In alternative embodiments, the insert can first be placed on the neck of the bottle, followed by the cover, and then the sealing ring is placed over the cover and tightened, or the sealing ring and cover can be assembled and then placed over the insert on the neck of the bottle.

Assemblies according to embodiments of the present disclosure can be used for securing a sealing device (oxygen scavenging or passive) for a variety of purposes such as, for example, preserving a sparkling or carbonated beverage and/or an oxygen sensitive material, for storage of a container (e.g. bottle) on its side or other position that is not upright, for shipping or traveling with an otherwise uncorked or opened container, or any of a variety of purposes.

In one particular embodiment, the stopper fixture assemblies of the present disclosure can be used in combination with an oxygen scavenging device as described herein to preserve a sparkling or carbonated beverage for consumption or other use at a later date. A carbonated beverage contains carbon dioxide gas that is dissolved in the fluid and the beverage is bottle or otherwise contained under high pressure. Once the pressure is released, such as by opening or uncorking a container, the carbon dioxide separates into gas and bubbles out of solution. Once all of the carbon dioxide has been released, the beverage is flat.

Typically an unfinished container of a carbonated beverage is disposed of because it becomes flat relatively quickly when opened to the atmosphere. However, by using an oxygen containing sealing device scavenges the oxygen to preserve flavor, while leaving carbon dioxide in solution. Furthermore, the stopper provides the adequate resistant to keep the sealing device in place in the event there is excessive pressure build up in the head space of the otherwise closed container. Left unsecured, the sealing device may be worked out of the neck sufficiently to release the pressure and to allow the remaining dissolved carbon dioxide to come out of solution.

It should be understood that the individual steps used in the methods of the present teachings may be performed in any order and/or simultaneously, as long as the teaching remains operable. Furthermore, it should be understood that the apparatus and methods of the present teachings can include any number, or all, of the described embodiments, as long as the teaching remains operable.

Various embodiments of systems, devices, and methods have been described herein. These embodiments are given only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed inventions. It should be appreciated, moreover, that the various features of the embodiments that have been described may be combined in various ways to produce numerous additional embodiments. Moreover, while various materials, dimensions, shapes, configurations and locations, etc. have been described for use with disclosed embodiments, others besides those disclosed may be utilized without exceeding the scope of the claimed inventions.

Persons of ordinary skill in the relevant arts will recognize that the subject matter hereof may comprise fewer features than illustrated in any individual embodiment described above. The embodiments described herein are not meant to be an exhaustive presentation of the ways in which the various features of the subject matter hereof may be combined. Accordingly, the embodiments are not mutually exclusive combinations of features; rather, the various embodiments can comprise a combination of different individual features selected from different individual embodiments, as understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, elements described with respect to one embodiment can be implemented in other embodiments even when not described in such embodiments unless otherwise noted.

Although a dependent claim may refer in the claims to a specific combination with one or more other claims, other embodiments can also include a combination of the dependent claim with the subject matter of each other dependent claim or a combination of one or more features with other dependent or independent claims. Such combinations are proposed herein unless it is stated that a specific combination is not intended.

Any incorporation by reference of documents above is limited such that no subject matter is incorporated that is contrary to the explicit disclosure herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is further limited such that no claims included in the documents are incorporated by reference herein. Any incorporation by reference of documents above is yet further limited such that any definitions provided in the documents are not incorporated by reference herein unless expressly included herein.

For purposes of interpreting the claims, it is expressly intended that the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) are not to be invoked unless the specific terms “means for” or “step for” are recited in a claim.

SELF RETAINING BOTTLE STOPPER FIXTURE ASSEMBLY

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