Temperature-Regulating Containment System

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A broad object of a particular embodiment of the invention can be to provide a temperature-regulating containment system for actively heating and/or cooling a liquid to a desired liquid temperature, and methods of making and using such a temperature-regulating containment system, whereby said system comprises: (i) a container having an internal cavity defined by a sidewall upwardly extending from a bottom wall, the internal cavity configured to contain liquid which has a liquid temperature; (ii) a temperature regulator operatively coupled to the internal cavity, the temperature regulator configured to regulate the temperature of the internal cavity and the liquid therein; (iii) a pressurizable chamber disposed between the internal cavity and the temperature regulator; and (iv) a pressure regulator operatively coupled to the chamber, the pressure regulator configured to regulate the pressure of the chamber.

In use, when the liquid temperature is below a desired liquid temperature, the pressure within the chamber can be increased, and the temperature regulator can provide heat to the liquid within the internal cavity to heat the liquid to the desired liquid temperature. Alternatively, when the liquid temperature is above a desired liquid temperature, the pressure within the chamber can be increased, and the temperature regulator can remove heat from the liquid within the internal cavity to cool the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

Naturally, further objects of the invention are disclosed throughout other areas of the specification, drawings, and claims.

II. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of the instant temperature-regulating containment system.

FIG. 1B is a front view of the particular embodiment of the temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1C is a rear view of the particular embodiment of the temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1D is a first side view of the particular embodiment of the temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1E is a second side view of the particular embodiment of the temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1F is a top view of the particular embodiment of the temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1G is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a particular embodiment of the instant temperature-regulating containment system including first and second subunits.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of a first subunit of the instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 3B is a front view of the particular embodiment of the first subunit shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3C is a rear view of the particular embodiment of the first subunit shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3D is a first side view of the particular embodiment of the first subunit shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3E is a second side view of the particular embodiment of the first subunit shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3F is a top view of the particular embodiment of the first subunit shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 3G is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the first subunit shown in FIG. 3A.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the particular embodiment of the first subunit shown in FIGS. 2 through 3G.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the particular embodiment of the first subunit shown in FIG. 3F.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of a second subunit of the instant temperature-regulating containment system shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 6B is a front view of the particular embodiment of the second subunit shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is a rear view of the particular embodiment of the second subunit shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6D is a first side view of the particular embodiment of the second subunit shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6E is a second side view of the particular embodiment of the second subunit shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6F is a top view of the particular embodiment of the second subunit shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6G is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the second subunit shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the particular embodiment of the second subunit shown in FIG. 2 and FIGS. 6A through 6G.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the particular embodiment of the second subunit shown in FIG. 6F.

FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of components of the particular embodiment of the second subunit shown in FIG. 7, including the temperature regulator and the heat sink.

FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a particular embodiment of a lid of the instant temperature-regulating containment system.

FIG. 10B is a front view of the particular embodiment of the lid shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10C is a rear view of the particular embodiment of the lid shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10D is a first side view of the particular embodiment of the lid shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10E is a second side view of the particular embodiment of the lid shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10F is a top view of the particular embodiment of the lid shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10G is a bottom view of the particular embodiment of the lid shown in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the particular embodiment of the lid shown in FIG. 10E.

FIG. 12A is an exploded perspective view of the particular embodiment of the lid shown in FIGS. 10A through 10G.

FIG. 12B is an exploded view of the particular embodiment of the lid shown in FIGS. 10A through 10G.

III. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 2, which illustrate an embodiment of a temperature-regulating containment system (1) for actively heating and/or cooling a liquid, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) including (i) a container (2) having an internal cavity (3) defined by a sidewall (4) upwardly extending from a bottom wall (5), the internal cavity (3) configured to contain liquid which has a liquid temperature; (ii) a temperature regulator (6) operatively coupled to the internal cavity (3), the temperature regulator (6) configured to regulate the temperature of the internal cavity (3) and the liquid therein; (iii) a pressurizable chamber (7) disposed between the internal cavity (3) and the temperature regulator (6); and (iv) a pressure regulator (8) operatively coupled to the chamber (7), the pressure regulator (8) configured to regulate the pressure of the chamber (7).

As to particular embodiments, the instant temperature-regulating containment system (1) may be useful when the liquid temperature is below a desired liquid temperature. Following, the pressure within the chamber (7) can be increased, and the temperature regulator (6) can provide heat to the liquid within the internal cavity (3) to heat the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the instant temperature-regulating containment system (1) may be useful when the liquid temperature is above a desired liquid temperature. Subsequently, the pressure within the chamber (7) can be increased, and the temperature regulator (6) can remove heat from the liquid within the internal cavity (3) to cool the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

As used herein, the term “heat” means energy, such as thermal energy, which when transferred to matter, can cause the matter to become warmer or hotter. Correspondingly, upon providing heat to matter, the matter can increase in temperature. Conversely, upon removing heat from matter, the matter can decrease in temperature, thereby becoming cooler or colder.

As used herein, a “desired liquid temperature” is typically a predetermined temperature, whereby “predetermined” means decided in advance. Of note, when the desired liquid temperature is reached with use of the instant temperature-regulating containment system (1), the temperature regulator (6) and/or the pressure regulator (8) can function to maintain the desired liquid temperature for a period of time, such as minutes or hours.

As shown in the example of the Figures, the instant temperature-regulating containment system (1) or one or more components thereof can be portable, meaning physically configured to be easily carried by an individual during use.

In the illustrated embodiment, the instant temperature-regulating containment system is shown as a mug (e.g., travel mug). However, the temperature-regulating containment system can be another type of container, such as a cup, beer mug, baby bottle, carafe, thermos, or other handheld portable liquid container.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 3A through FIG. 5, the instant temperature-regulating containment system (1) includes a container (2) having an internal cavity (3) configured to contain liquid, whereby the container (2) can be formed from at least a sidewall (4) which upwardly extends from a bottom wall (5). Following, a sidewall inner surface (9) and a bottom wall inner surface (10) define the internal cavity (3) having an open end (11) opposite the bottom wall inner surface (10) (which provides the internal cavity (3) with a closed end (12)). Liquid can be passed through the open end (11) for containment within the internal cavity (3).

Regarding configuration, as to particular embodiments, the container (2) can be formed from a generally cylindrical sidewall (4), thus having a generally circular cross section through a horizontal plane. The diameter of the generally cylindrical sidewall (4) can be the same or different along the height of the sidewall (4), depending upon the embodiment. Regarding the latter, the diameter of the generally cylindrical sidewall (4) can taper or flare toward one end (11)(12).

Regarding material, at least the sidewall (4) of the container (2) can be formed from a thermally-conductive material, such as metal. As but one non-limiting example, the sidewall (4) can be formed from one or more of copper, tin-plated copper, tin-plated aluminum, stainless steel, or the like. As to particular embodiments, the bottom wall (5), which can be (i) coupled, directly coupled, connected, or directly connected to the sidewall (4) at a liquid-tight junction or (ii) integrated with the sidewall (4) (such that the sidewall (4) and the bottom wall (5) are a one-piece or single-piece or monolithic construct), can also be formed from a thermally-conductive material as described above.

As to particular embodiments, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include an outer shell (13), made from any suitable material, coupled to the container (2), whereby the outer shell (13) (i) disposes radially outward from the sidewall (4) and (ii) surrounds, whether partially or completely, at least the sidewall (4). As to particular embodiments, the outer shell (13) can also (i) extend beneath the bottom wall (5) and (ii) surround, whether partially or completely, the bottom wall (5); thus, as to this particular embodiment, the outer shell (13) can surround the container (2) except proximate the open end (11) of the internal cavity (3).

The temperature-regulating containment system (1) further includes a temperature regulator (6) in thermal communication with the container (2), whereby the temperature regulator (6) can be configured to regulate the temperature of the internal cavity (3) and the liquid therein.

It is herein to be understood and emphasized that when a component of the temperature-regulating containment system (1) is in thermal communication with the container (2), the component is also in thermal communication with the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3). Thus, when heat is provided to the container (2), for example by a temperature regulator (6) comprising a heating element (14), heat can be provided to the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3). And, when heat is removed from the container (2), for example by a temperature regulator (6) comprising a cooling element (15), heat can be removed from the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3).

As to particular embodiments, the temperature regulator (6) can comprise or be configured as a heating element (14) in thermal communication with the container (2), whereby the heating element (14) can be configured to provide heat to the container (2) and correspondingly to the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3), for example to heat the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can include an electrically-conductive path having a sufficient amount of resistance to generate heat upon travel of electricity, whereby the electrically-conductive path can take the form of a wire, ribbon, strip, etched path, or the like, depending upon the embodiment.

As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can dispose beneath the container (2). For example, the heating element (14) can dispose beneath the bottom wall (5) of the container (2), whereby the heating element (14) can be configured to provide heat to the bottom wall (5) and/or the sidewall (4). Thus, the heating element (14) can be in thermal communication with the bottom wall (5) and/or the sidewall (4) and can correspondingly provide heat thereto and subsequently, to the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3) via transfer through the bottom wall (5) and/or the sidewall (4) to heat the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a bottom wall outer surface (16) disposed opposite the bottom wall inner surface (10) which defines a portion of the internal cavity (3).

As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a component which itself disposes adjacent or directly adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface (16), thereby positioning the heating element (14) proximate the bottom wall outer surface (16). As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a chamber (7) which disposes adjacent or directly adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface (16), said chamber (7) described in detail below.

As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can dispose laterally adjacent to the container (2) (not shown). For example, the heating element (14) can dispose adjacent to the sidewall (4) of the container (2), whereby the heating element (14) can be configured to provide heat to the sidewall (4) and/or the bottom wall (5). Thus, the heating element (14) can be in thermal communication with the sidewall (4) and/or the bottom wall (5) and can correspondingly provide heat thereto and subsequently, to the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3) via transfer through the sidewall (4) and/or the bottom wall (5) to heat the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a sidewall outer surface (17) disposed opposite the sidewall inner surface (9) which defines a portion of the internal cavity (3).

As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a component which itself disposes adjacent or directly adjacent to the sidewall outer surface (17), thereby positioning the heating element (14) proximate the sidewall outer surface (17). As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a chamber (7) which disposes adjacent or directly adjacent to the sidewall outer surface (17), said chamber (7) described in detail below.

As to particular embodiments, the heating element (14) can dispose above the container (2). For example, the heating element (14) can be coupled to and/or housed within a lid (36) (as shown in FIGS. 10A through 12B), the lid (36) couplable to the open end (11) of the internal cavity (3), whereby the lid (36) can be configured to close the open end (11) and thus, close the internal cavity (3) and isolate the internal cavity (3) and the contents thereof from the ambient environment. As to these embodiments, the heating element (14) can be operatively coupled to a conductive element (35), such as one which downwardly extends into the internal cavity (3) and the liquid contained therein, whereby the conductive element (35) can facilitate the transfer of thermal energy between the heating element (14) and the liquid to heat the liquid to the desired liquid temperature. Of note, the conductive element (35) may be configured as any one of a variety of shapes suitable for said application; as but one example, the conductive element (35) may have a U-shape.

Again referring primarily to FIGS. 10A through 12B, as to particular embodiments, the lid (36) can further include a pressurizable chamber (7) disposed between the heating element (14) and the internal cavity (3), and a pressure regulator (8) operatively coupled to the chamber (7), the pressure regulator (8) configured to regulate the pressure of the chamber (7). As to particular embodiments, the chamber (7) can downwardly extend into the internal cavity (3) and into the liquid contained therein to permit or preclude the transfer of thermal energy between the liquid and the heating element (14) (and/or the ambient environment).

As to particular embodiments, the temperature regulator (6) can comprise or be configured as a cooling element (15) in thermal communication with the container (2), whereby the cooling element (15) can be configured to remove heat from the container (2) and correspondingly from the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3), for example to cool the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can be a thermoelectric cooler, such as a Peltier device which operates according to the Peltier effect. Typically, a Peltier device includes a warmable face opposite a coolable face. When an electric current flows through the Peltier device, heat transfers from the coolable face to the warmable face, thus decreasing the temperature of (or cooling) the coolable face and increasing the temperature of (or warming) the warmable face.

As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can dispose beneath the container (2). As to particular embodiments whereby a Peltier device comprises the cooling element (15), the Peltier device can dispose beneath the bottom wall (5) of the container (2) such that the coolable face is proximate the bottom wall (5) while the warmable face is distal from the bottom wall (5). Said another way, the coolable face can be oriented toward the bottom wall (5) or closer to the bottom wall (5), and the warmable face can be oriented away from the bottom wall (5) or farther from the bottom wall (5). Accordingly, during use of the temperature-regulating containment system (1), the coolable face can be upwardly directed while the warmable face can be downwardly directed. Following, the coolable face can be in thermal communication with the bottom wall (5) and/or the sidewall (4) and can correspondingly remove heat therefrom and subsequently, from the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3) via transfer through the bottom wall (5) and/or the sidewall (4) to cool the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a bottom wall outer surface (16) disposed opposite the bottom wall inner surface (10) which defines a portion of the internal cavity (3).

As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a component which itself disposes adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface (16), thereby positioning the cooling element (15) proximate the bottom wall outer surface (16). As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a chamber (7) which disposes adjacent or directly adjacent to the bottom wall outer surface (16), said chamber (7) described in detail below.

As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can dispose laterally adjacent to the container (2) (not shown). For example, the cooling element (15) can dispose adjacent to the sidewall (4) of the container (2), whereby the cooling element (15) can be configured to remove heat from the sidewall (4) and/or the bottom wall (5). Thus, the cooling element (15) can be in thermal communication with the sidewall (4) and/or the bottom wall (5) and can correspondingly remove heat therefrom and subsequently, from the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3) via transfer through the sidewall (4) and/or the bottom wall (5) to cool the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a sidewall outer surface (17) disposed opposite the sidewall inner surface (9) which defines a portion of the internal cavity (3).

As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a component which itself disposes adjacent to the sidewall outer surface (17), thereby positioning the cooling element (15) proximate the sidewall outer surface (17). As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to a chamber (7) which disposes adjacent or directly adjacent to the sidewall outer surface (17), said chamber (7) described in detail below.

As to particular embodiments, the cooling element (15) can dispose above the container (2). For example, the cooling element (15) can be coupled to and/or housed within a lid (36) (as shown in FIGS. 10A through 12B), the lid (36) couplable to the open end (11) of the internal cavity (3), whereby the lid (36) can be configured to close the open end (11) and thus, close the internal cavity (3) and isolate the internal cavity (3) and the contents thereof from the ambient environment. As to these embodiments, the cooling element (15) can be operatively coupled to a conductive element (35), such as one which downwardly extends into the internal cavity (3) and the liquid contained therein, whereby the conductive element (35) can facilitate the removal of heat from the liquid to cool the liquid to the desired liquid temperature.

Again referring primarily to FIGS. 10A through 12B, as to particular embodiments, the lid (36) can further include a pressurizable chamber (7) disposed between the cooling element (15) and the internal cavity (3), and a pressure regulator (8) operatively coupled to the chamber (7), the pressure regulator (8) configured to regulate the pressure of the chamber (7). As to particular embodiments, the chamber (7) can downwardly extend into the internal cavity (3) and into the liquid contained therein to permit or preclude the transfer of thermal energy between the liquid and the cooling element (15) (and/or the ambient environment). As to particular embodiments, the lid (36) can further include a heat sink (18) (described in detail below) coupled to the cooling element (15), whereby the heat sink (18) can function to dissipate the heat removed from the liquid.

As to particular embodiments, the temperature regulator (6) can comprise or be configured as both a heating element (14) and a cooling element (15), whereby such a configuration can include a thermoelectric element, such as a Peltier device which can function to correspondingly heat or cool the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3). As but one non-limiting example, the Peltier device can be the same as or similar to Peltier Module TEC1-07103, whereby heating or cooling with the same module is possible simply by reversing polarity.

As to particular embodiments, the temperature regulator (6) can include a heat pipe, as may be known to one of ordinary skill in the art. As to particular embodiments, the heat pipe can be configured as a thermal device which allows an efficient transport of thermal energy, whereby the heat pipe can be composed of a closed structure whose internal surface can be lined with a thin layer of porous material, typically referred to as a wick. The pores of the wick can be filled with a working liquid appropriate to the application, and the vapor of the liquid can occupy the remaining internal volume. Since the liquid and its vapor coexist in equilibrium, the pressure inside the heat pipe can be equal to the vapor pressure corresponding to the saturation conditions.

Concerning function, as heat is applied to one end (the evaporator), the working liquid evaporates from the wick, while the removal of heat from some other portion of the surface (the condenser) causes the vapor to condensate on the wick. The pressure gradient resulting from the accumulation of vapor at one end of the heat pipe and its depletion at the other end causes the vapor to flow though the core region of the container. As the liquid evaporates, it retreats into the wick pores, depressing the meniscus and dropping the liquid pressure below the pressure of the adjacent vapor. At the other end, condensation takes place and the working liquid fills in the wick, tending to maintain a flat surface without any depression of the pressure in the liquid. Due to capillary forces, the result is a pressure gradient in the liquid that causes the working liquid to flow through the wick towards the evaporator end, in the opposite direction to that of the flowing vapor in the core region, completing the flow circuit.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 7 through FIG. 9, as to particular embodiments, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include a heat sink (18) coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to the Peltier device. Specifically, the heat sink (18) can be coupled, directly coupled, connected, directly connected, adjacent, and/or directly adjacent to the warmable face of the Peltier device such that the heat sink (18) can be in thermal communication with the warmable face. Correspondingly, the heat sink (18) can function to dissipate heat transferred to the warmable face from the coolable face, thus allowing the warmable face to draw additional heat from the coolable face to further decrease the temperature of (or cool) the coolable face. Consequently, the temperature of the container (2) can be further decreased (or cooled) and subsequently, the liquid contained within the internal cavity (3) can be cooled to the desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the heat sink (18) can include one or more fluid flow paths disposed within a heat sink body formed from a thermally-conductive material, such as aluminum or copper. The fluid flow paths can be configured to allow a fluid medium, such as air, to flow therethrough, whereby heat from the relatively warmer heat sink body can be transferred to the relatively cooler fluid medium which upon flowing, can transfer the heat away from the heat sink (18) and the temperature-regulating containment system (1) to the ambient environment.

Preferably, the heat sink body and fluid flow paths can be configured to maximize the surface area of the heat sink body which contacts the fluid medium to increase the amount of heat which can be transferred away from the temperature-regulating containment system (1).

As to particular embodiments, the fluid flow paths can be defined by fins (19) of the heat sink body, whereby the fins (19) and correspondingly, the fluid flow paths, can radially outwardly extend, for example from a central interior space (20). Correspondingly as to this particular embodiment, the fins (19) can be configured in an annular arrangement.

As to particular embodiments, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include a fan (21) fluidicly coupled to the fluid flow paths, the fan (21) functioning to facilitate movement or flow of the fluid medium, such as air, through the fluid flow paths toward the ambient environment, thereby transferring heat from the heat sink body to the ambient environment. As to particular embodiments, the fan (21) can be disposed, either partially or entirely, proximate or within the central interior space (20).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 5, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) further includes a pressurizable chamber (7) disposed between the container (2) and the temperature regulator (6), and more specifically between the internal cavity (3) and the temperature regulator (6), whereby the chamber (7) can be proximate at least a portion of the internal cavity (3). The chamber (7) can function to permit or preclude the transfer of thermal energy between (i) the internal cavity (3) and correspondingly, the liquid therein, and (ii) the temperature regulator (6) and/or the ambient environment. Upon precluding such a thermal energy transfer, the chamber (7) can effectively thermally insulate the container (2), consequently permitting the liquid to remain at the desired liquid temperature for an increased period of time relative to an embodiment of a temperature-regulating containment system without a chamber (7).

As to particular embodiments, the chamber (7) can be proximate and/or adjacent at least a portion of the sidewall (4).

As to these particular embodiments, the chamber (7) can be proximate and/or adjacent at least a portion of the sidewall outer surface (17).

As to particular embodiments, in addition to being proximate and/or adjacent at least a portion of the sidewall (4), the chamber (7) can also be proximate and/or adjacent a portion of the bottom wall (5).

As to these particular embodiments, the chamber (7) can be proximate and/or adjacent at least a portion of the bottom wall outer surface (16).

Again referring primarily to FIG. 5, as to particular embodiments of the temperature-regulating containment system (1) including an outer shell (13) disposed radially outward from the sidewall (4) of the container (2), the sidewall (4) and the outer shell (13) can dispose in radially spaced-apart relation, thus providing space for disposition of the chamber (7) therebetween. Further, as to particular embodiments including an outer shell (13) which also extends beneath the bottom wall (5) of the container (2), the bottom wall (5) and the outer shell (13) can dispose in spaced-apart relation, accordingly providing space for disposition of the chamber (7) therebetween.

As to particular embodiments, a container outer surface (22) and an outer shell inner surface (23) can provide the walls which define the chamber (7) (not shown).

As to other particular embodiments, a discrete (or separate) chamber element (24) can be disposed between the container (2) and the outer shell (13) and specifically, between the container outer surface (22) and the outer shell inner surface (23), whereby the chamber element (24) can include a chamber wall (25) which defines the chamber (7).

As to particular embodiments, the chamber (7) and its defining wall (25) can completely (or entirely) laterally (or radially) surround the sidewall (4) (not shown).

As to other particular embodiments, the chamber (7) can include a plurality of discrete (or separate) lateral chambers (26) radially surrounding the sidewall (4), for example in circumferentially spaced-apart relation, whereby the lateral chambers (26) can be fluidicly coupled or connected to one another. As to particular embodiments, a bottom chamber (27) can be fluidicly coupled or connected to the lateral chambers (26), whereby the lateral chambers (26) and the bottom chamber (27) share the same pressure.

As to particular embodiments, the container outer surface (22) can include inwardly extending channels such that upon coupling of the chamber element (24) to the container (2), the lateral chambers (26) can be received within the channels to inset the chamber element (24) within the container outer surface (22).

As detailed above, the chamber (7) can be thermally coupled to the temperature regulator (6) and accordingly, can be disposed adjacent or directly adjacent to the temperature regulator (6).

The pressure within the chamber (7) is adjustable, meaning it can be actively increased or decreased depending upon the desired function of the chamber (7). When the chamber (7) has an increased pressure condition, for example as a result of ingress of a heat transfer medium, said heat transfer medium can function to thermally couple (i) the internal cavity (3) and correspondingly, the liquid therein, and (ii) the temperature regulator (6), thus permitting heat to transfer therebetween. Conversely, when the chamber (7) has a decreased pressure condition, for example as a result of egress of a heat transfer medium, the depressurized chamber (7) can function to thermally uncouple (i) the internal cavity (3) and correspondingly, the liquid therein, and (ii) the temperature regulator (6) and/or the ambient environment, thus precluding heat from transferring therebetween.

As to particular embodiments, a vacuum can be generated within the chamber (7) when the chamber (7) is adjusted to a decreased pressure condition and/or the chamber (7) is void of the heat transfer medium. The vacuum which exists within the chamber (7) can function to thermally uncouple (i) the internal cavity (3) and correspondingly, the liquid therein, and (ii) the temperature regulator (6) and/or the ambient environment; hence, the vacuum precludes heat from transferring between (i) the internal cavity (3) and correspondingly, the liquid therein, and (ii) the temperature regulator (6) and/or the ambient environment.

It is herein to be understood that the heat transfer medium is a flowable medium capable of flowing into and out of the chamber (7). As to particular embodiments, the heat transfer medium can comprise or consist of a liquid, such as water or ammonia or other suitable chemical(s). As to particular embodiments, the heat transfer medium can comprise or consist of a gas.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, as to particular embodiments, the pressure regulator (8) can be configured as a pump (28) operatively coupled to the chamber (7), whereby the pump (28) can facilitate the ingress and egress of the heat transfer medium into and out of the chamber (7), respectively.

Again referring primarily to FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, as to particular embodiments the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include a power source (29) operatively and/or electrically coupled to one or more powerable components of the temperature-regulating containment system (1), whereby a powerable component can be any component requiring power to perform its intended function, including but not limited to: the heating element (14), the cooling element (15), the fan (21), and/or the pump (28).

As to particular embodiments, the power source (29) can be removable or configured to removably couple to the container (2), which may be useful when cleaning and/or washing the temperature-regulating containment system (1).

As to particular embodiments, the power source (29) can be rechargeable and for example, can be charged by a charger.

As to particular embodiments, the power source (29) can be removable and rechargeable.

As to particular embodiments, the power source (29) can be configured as a battery, such as a rechargeable battery.

As to particular embodiments, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include one or more sensors configured to sense a parameter of the liquid and/or a parameter of the temperature-regulating containment system (1) and communicate sensed parameter information to control circuitry (30) (which may be configured as a circuit board) which functions to control one or more controllable components of the temperature-regulating containment system (1), whereby a controllable component may be a powerable component as described above, based at least in part on the sensed parameter information.

As to particular embodiments, the sensor can be a temperature sensor configured to sense the liquid temperature, whether directly or indirectly. Upon sensing, the sensed temperature information can be communicated to the control circuitry (30), which may result in operation of the heating element (14) if the liquid temperature is determined to be below a desired liquid temperature or operation of the cooling element (15) if the liquid temperature is determined to be above a desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can include a plurality of temperature sensors disposed in spaced-apart relation along a height of the container (2). By determining the difference between the sensed temperature information provided by at least two temperature sensors in generally vertical spaced-apart relation, the level of the liquid can be determined, such as via use of a liquid volume algorithm.

For example, when liquid is present in the internal cavity (3), if there is substantially no difference between the sensed temperature information provided by upper and lower temperature sensors, the level of the liquid may likely be above the upper temperature sensor. However, if the sensed temperature information provided by the upper temperature sensor indicates a lesser temperature than that provided by the lower temperature sensor, the level of the liquid may likely be below the upper temperature sensor and above the lower temperature sensor or between the upper and lower temperature sensors.

Additionally, when no liquid is detected via the plurality of temperature sensors, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can be configured to power off.

The control circuitry (30) that, stated again, can function to control one or more controllable components of the temperature-regulating containment system (1), which may be based at least in part on the sensed parameter information, can include at least one controller or microcontroller which can receive, process, and transform a sensor signal generated by a sensor.

As to particular embodiments, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include a display surface (not shown) operatively coupled to the control circuitry (30), whereby the display surface can be configured to display the liquid temperature or information, such as a message, notification, or visual indication, related to the liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the display surface can be located on the temperature-regulating containment system (1).

As to particular embodiments, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include a user interface operatively coupled to the control circuitry (30) and having one or more user-actuatable controls to provide operating instructions to the control circuitry (30). For example, a user-actuatable control may be used to select a desired liquid temperature of the liquid within the internal cavity (3) and correspondingly, one or more controllable components of the temperature-regulating containment system (1) will operate to achieve the desired liquid temperature.

As to particular embodiments, the user interface and correspondingly, the one or more user-actuatable controls, can be located on the temperature-regulating containment system (1). Thus, the one or more user-actuatable controls can be actuated locally to control one or more controllable components of the temperature-regulating containment system (1).

As to particular embodiments, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include a wireless transceiver operatively coupled to the control circuitry (30), the transceiver configured to establish a communication connection with a remote device, such as a mobile electronic device like a mobile phone or tablet computer.

As to particular embodiments, the transceiver can be configured to transmit information, for example the liquid temperature or information related to the liquid temperature, to the remote device, whereby the liquid temperature or information related to the liquid temperature can subsequently be displayed on the remote device. Thus, as to this particular embodiment, the display surface can be located on the remote device.

As to particular embodiments, the transceiver can also be configured to receive operating instructions from the remote device, for example instructions to operate one or more controllable components of the temperature-regulating containment system (1) to achieve the desired liquid temperature. Accordingly, as to this particular embodiment, the user interface and correspondingly, the one or more user-actuatable controls, can be located on the remote device. Thus, the one or more user-actuatable controls can be actuated remotely to control one or more controllable components of the temperature-regulating containment system (1).

As to particular embodiments, the remote device can comprise a program or application associated with the temperature-regulating containment system (1), whereby the application can include information related to the liquid temperature, such as recommended temperatures for specific liquid types. Additionally, the application can function to store temperature preferences of a user, for example the user's temperature preferences for specific liquid types.

As to particular embodiments, all components necessary for the desired function of the instant temperature-regulating containment system (1) can be located within or provided as an independent or stand-alone or self-contained or integrated unit (sometimes with the exception of a user interface and user-actuatable controls when located on a remote device). As but one illustrative example, an integrated unit can include the container (2), the pressurizable chamber (7) (and necessary corresponding elements), the temperature regulator (6) (and necessary corresponding elements), and a power source (29) (and necessary corresponding elements).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1A through FIG. 9, as to other particular embodiments, the instant temperature-regulating containment system (1) can be provided as a plurality of discrete or separate subunits, whereby one subunit, such as a first subunit (31), can include the container (2) and the pressurizable chamber (7), and another subunit, such as a second subunit (32), can be couplable to the first subunit (31) to facilitate the requisite functioning of first subunit (31).

As but one illustrative example of such an embodiment, the first subunit (31) can include (but is not limited to including) the container (2), the pressurizable chamber (7) (and some or all of the necessary corresponding elements, such as the pump (28)), a temperature regulator (6) (and some or all of the necessary corresponding elements), and a power source (29) (and some or all of the necessary corresponding elements). The second subunit (32) can include (but is not limited to including) a temperature regulator (6) (and some or all of the necessary corresponding elements), a heat sink (18) (and some or all of the necessary corresponding elements), and a power source (29) (and some or all of the necessary corresponding elements).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 4, as to particular embodiments having a temperature regulator (6) disposed in spaced-apart relation to the chamber (7) (and corresponding internal cavity (3)), a thermal bridge (33) can be disposed therebetween. As to particular embodiments, the thermal bridge (33) can be regulated by a thermal bridge pressurizable chamber, which can be akin to the chamber (7) detailed herein (which permits or precludes the transfer of thermal energy between (i) the internal cavity (3) and correspondingly, the liquid therein, and (ii) the temperature regulator (6) and/or the ambient environment). Following, when the thermal bridge pressurizable chamber has an increased pressure condition (for example, via a pressure regulator (8) configured as a pump (34)), thermal energy transfer can be permitted. In contrast, when the thermal bridge pressurizable chamber has a decreased pressure condition (for example, via a pressure regulator (8) configured as a pump (34)), the transfer of thermal energy can be precluded.

As will be understood by one or ordinary skill in the art, the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can include one or more conductive elements (35) which may facilitate the transfer of thermal energy. As but one illustrative example, such a conductive element (35) can be formed from a conductive material, such as a metal, and in particular, such as copper.

Now regarding production, a method of making the instant temperature-regulating containment system (1) can include providing a container (2) having an internal cavity (3) defined by a sidewall (4) upwardly extending from a bottom wall (5), the internal cavity (3) configured to contain liquid which has a liquid temperature; operatively coupling a temperature regulator (6) to the internal cavity (3), the temperature regulator (6) configured to regulate the temperature of the internal cavity (3) and the liquid therein; disposing a pressurizable chamber (7) between the internal cavity (3) and the temperature regulator (6); and operatively coupling a pressure regulator (8) to the chamber (7), the pressure regulator (8) configured to regulate the pressure of the chamber (7).

The method of making the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include providing additional components of the temperature-regulating containment system (1) as described herein and in the claims.

Now regarding utilization, a method of using the instant temperature-regulating containment system (1) to achieve a desired liquid temperature of a liquid can include obtaining the temperature-regulating containment system (1) described above; disposing liquid within the internal cavity (3); operating the temperature regulator (6) to either (i) provide heat to the liquid within the internal cavity (3) to heat the liquid to the desired liquid temperature or (ii) remove heat from the liquid within the internal cavity (3) to cool the liquid to the desired liquid temperature; and adjusting the chamber (7) to one of (i) an increased pressure condition or (ii) a decreased pressure condition.

The method of using the temperature-regulating containment system (1) can further include utilizing additional components of the temperature-regulating containment system (1) as described herein and in the claims.

As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts of the present invention may be embodied in a variety of ways. The invention involves numerous and varied embodiments of a temperature-regulating containment system and methods for making and using such a temperature-regulating containment system.

As such, the particular embodiments or elements of the invention disclosed by the description or shown in the figures or tables accompanying this application are not intended to be limiting, but rather exemplary of the numerous and varied embodiments generically encompassed by the invention or equivalents encompassed with respect to any particular element thereof. In addition, the specific description of a single embodiment or element of the invention may not explicitly describe all embodiments or elements possible; many alternatives are implicitly disclosed by the description and figures.

It should be understood that each element of an apparatus or each step of a method may be described by an apparatus term or method term. Such terms can be substituted where desired to make explicit the implicitly broad coverage to which this invention is entitled. As but one example, it should be understood that all steps of a method may be disclosed as an action, a means for taking that action, or as an element which causes that action. Similarly, each element of an apparatus may be disclosed as the physical element or the action which that physical element facilitates. As but one example, the disclosure of a “regulator” should be understood to encompass disclosure of the act of “regulating”—whether explicitly discussed or not—and, conversely, were there effectively disclosure of the act of “regulating”, such a disclosure should be understood to encompass disclosure of a “regulator” and even a “means for regulating”. Such alternative terms for each element or step are to be understood to be explicitly included in the description.

In addition, as to each term used it should be understood that unless its utilization in this application is inconsistent with such interpretation, common dictionary definitions should be understood to be included in the description for each term as contained in the Random House Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, second edition, each definition hereby incorporated by reference.

All numeric values herein are assumed to be modified by the term “about”, whether or not explicitly indicated. For the purposes of the present invention, ranges may be expressed as from “about” one particular value to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value to the other particular value. The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all the numeric values subsumed within that range. A numerical range of one to five includes for example the numeric values 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, and so forth. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. When a value is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about” generally refers to a range of numeric values that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited numeric value or having the same function or result. Similarly, the antecedent “substantially” means largely, but not wholly, the same form, manner or degree and the particular element will have a range of configurations as a person of ordinary skill in the art would consider as having the same function or result. When a particular element is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent “substantially,” it will be understood that the particular element forms another embodiment.

Moreover, for the purposes of the present invention, the term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or more of that entity unless otherwise limited. As such, the terms “a” or “an”, “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein.

Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to claim at least: i) each of the temperature-regulating containment systems herein disclosed and described, ii) the related methods disclosed and described, iii) similar, equivalent, and even implicit variations of each of these devices and methods, iv) those alternative embodiments which accomplish each of the functions shown, disclosed, or described, v) those alternative designs and methods which accomplish each of the functions shown as are implicit to accomplish that which is disclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, and step shown as separate and independent inventions, vii) the applications enhanced by the various systems or components disclosed, viii) the resulting products produced by such systems or components, ix) methods and apparatuses substantially as described hereinbefore and with reference to any of the accompanying examples, x) the various combinations and permutations of each of the previous elements disclosed.

The background section of this patent application, if any, provides a statement of the field of endeavor to which the invention pertains. This section may also incorporate or contain paraphrasing of certain United States patents, patent applications, publications, or subject matter of the claimed invention useful in relating information, problems, or concerns about the state of technology to which the invention is drawn toward. It is not intended that any United States patent, patent application, publication, statement or other information cited or incorporated herein be interpreted, construed or deemed to be admitted as prior art with respect to the invention.

The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are hereby incorporated by reference as part of this description of the invention, and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or a portion of such incorporated content of such claims as additional description to support any of or all of the claims or any element or component thereof, and the applicant further expressly reserves the right to move any portion of or all of the incorporated content of such claims or any element or component thereof from the description into the claims or vice-versa as necessary to define the matter for which protection is sought by this application or by any subsequent application or continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application thereof, or to obtain any benefit of, reduction in fees pursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws, rules, or regulations of any country or treaty, and such content incorporated by reference shall survive during the entire pendency of this application including any subsequent continuation, division, or continuation-in-part application thereof or any reissue or extension thereon.

Additionally, the claims set forth in this specification, if any, are further intended to describe the metes and bounds of a limited number of the preferred embodiments of the invention and are not to be construed as the broadest embodiment of the invention or a complete listing of embodiments of the invention that may be claimed. The applicant does not waive any right to develop further claims based upon the description set forth above as a part of any continuation, division, or continuation-in-part, or similar application.

Temperature-Regulating Containment System

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