WINE AERATOR

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The present application relates to an aerator device for fluids, and more particularly, to a wine aerator.

2. Description of the Related Art

One way to improve the wine drinking experience is to aerate the wine to maximize the wine's exposure to surrounding air. Mixing the wine with air allows the wine to warm up, the wine's aromas to open up and the overall flavor characteristics to improve.

Various methods and devices for aerating wine exist. Some include devices into which wine is poured and that draws air into the flow of wine that flows through the device. One disadvantage with such devices is that as wine flows though the device, it has a tendency to swirl, especially when the volume of wine flowing through the device decreases. Such a swirling flow provides for inadequate aeration of wine.

Accordingly, there is a need for an improved wine aerator that addresses the deficiencies present in existing wine aerators.

SUMMARY

In accordance with one embodiment, a device for aerating wine is provided. The device comprises a one-piece body that comprises a cup portion having a cavity configured to receive an amount of wine therein, the cavity extending between a proximal opening at a proximal end of the cup portion and a distal opening at a distal section of the cavity. The body also comprises a neck portion that defines an aeration section therein that is in fluid communication with the distal section of the cavity, the aeration section having one or more passages that extend laterally from the aeration section to an outer surface of the neck portion through which air is drawn into the aeration section. The body further comprises an end portion, the neck and end portion defining a central passage in fluid communication with the aeration section and extending to a distal opening at a distal end of the body, the passage increasing in diameter between the aeration section and a distal end of the body. The device also comprises a diffuser element disposed in the distal section of the cavity and shaped to allow flow therethrough from the cavity to the aeration section, the diffuser element having one or more arms that extend into the cavity, the arms configured to contact the amount of wine as it flows from the cavity and to inhibit a swirling flow of the wine so that the wine passes into the aeration section in a generally vertical and linear manner.

In accordance with another embodiment, a device for aerating a liquid is provided. The device comprises a one-piece body that comprises a cup portion having a cavity configured to receive an amount of liquid therein, the cavity extending between a proximal opening at a proximal end of the cup portion and a distal opening at a distal section of the cavity. The body also comprises a neck portion that defines an aeration section therein that is in fluid communication with the distal section of the cavity, the aeration section having one or more passages that extend laterally from the aeration section to an outer surface of the neck portion through which air is drawn into the aeration section. The body further comprises an end portion, the neck and end portion defining a conical passage in fluid communication with the aeration section and extending to a distal opening at a distal end of the body, the passage increasing in diameter between the aeration section and a distal end of the body. The device also comprises a diffuser element disposed in the distal section of the cavity and shaped to allow flow therethrough from the cavity to the aeration section, the diffuser element having a plurality of arms that extend into the cavity and form a cross shape, the arms configured to contact the amount of liquid as it flows from the cavity and to inhibit a swirling flow of the liquid so that the liquid passes into the aeration section in a generally vertical and linear manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective top view of one embodiment of an aerator device.

FIG. 2A is a schematic side view of the assembled aerator device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2B is a schematic exploded side view of the aerator device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3A is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerator device of FIG. 1 without the diffuser element.

FIG. 3B is a schematic side view of the aerator device of FIG. 1 without the diffuser element.

FIG. 4 is a schematic top view of the aerator device of FIG. 1 without the diffuser element.

FIG. 5 is a schematic bottom view of the aerator device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6A is a schematic perspective top view of one embodiment of a diffuser element for use with the aerator device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6B is a schematic partial top view of the diffuser element of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the diffuser element of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6D is a schematic top view of the diffuser element of FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a schematic side view of another embodiment of an assembled aerator device.

FIG. 7B is a schematic exploded side view of the aerator device of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerator device of FIG. 7A without the diffuser element.

FIG. 7D is a schematic top view of the aerator device of FIG. 7A without the diffuser element.

FIG. 8A is a schematic perspective top view of one embodiment of a diffuser element for use with the aerator device of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 8B is a schematic partial top view of the diffuser element of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8C is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the diffuser element of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8D is a schematic top view of the diffuser element of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9A is a schematic side view of another embodiment of an assembled aerator device.

FIG. 9B is a schematic exploded side view of the aerator device of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 9C is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerator device of FIG. 9A without the diffuser element.

FIG. 9D is a schematic top view of the aerator device of FIG. 9A without the diffuser element.

FIG. 10A is a schematic perspective top view of another embodiment of an aerator device.

FIG. 10B is a schematic perspective side view of the aerator device of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 10C is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerator device of FIG. 10A without the diffuser element.

FIG. 10D is a schematic top view of the aerator device of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11A is a schematic side view of another embodiment of a diffuser element for use with the aerator of FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the diffuser element in FIG. 10A.

FIG. 11C is a schematic top view of the diffuser element of FIG. 11A.

FIG. 12A is a schematic bottom view of one embodiment of a band for use with the aerator device of FIGS. 1, 7A, 9A and 10A.

FIG. 12B is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the band of FIG. 12A.

FIG. 12C is a schematic top view of the band of FIG. 12A.

FIG. 13A is a schematic bottom view of one embodiment of a gasket for use with the aerator device of FIGS. 1, 7A, 9A and 10A.

FIG. 13B is a schematic top view of the gasket of FIG. 13A.

FIG. 13C is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the gasket of FIG. 13A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of an aerator device 100 for aerating fluids, such as wine. The aerator device 100 can include a cup portion 10 at its proximal end, a neck portion 30 attached to the cup portion 10, and an end portion 50 at a distal end of the aerator device 100.

With reference to FIGS. 2A-5, the aerator device 10 can extend from a proximal end P to a distal end D. The cup portion 10 can have a wall 12 that defines an opening 12a at the proximal end P and an inner surface 12b that defines a cavity 14 into which a fluid (e.g., wine) can be poured, as well as a fill line 14a in the cavity 14 that a user can use to determine how much liquid to pour into the cup portion 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner surface 12b has a curved shape similar to that of a wine glass. The wall 12 of the cup portion 10 also defines a curved outer wall 12c and a recessed section 12d distal of the curved outer wall 12c. The recessed section 12d is sized to receive a band 300 therein, as described further below. The opening 12a can have diameter of between about 1.5 inches and about 3 inches. In one embodiment, the opening 12a can have a diameter of about 2 inches. The inner surface 12b can have a curvature defined by a radius of curvature of between about 1 inch and about 2 inches. In one embodiment, the inner surface 12b can have a curvature defined by a radius of curvature of about 1.5 inches.

The inner surface 12b extends between the opening 12a at the proximal end P and an opening 16a that fluidly communicates the cavity 14 with a first chamber 16 that is distal of the cavity 14. In the illustrated embodiment, the first chamber 16 is defined within the neck portion 30 and is generally cylindrical in shape. In one embodiment the first chamber 16 can have a diameter 16d of between about 0.3 and 0.5 inches and has a length 16b of between about 0.15 an 0.4 inches. In another embodiment, the first chamber 16 can have a diameter 16d of about 0.4 inches and a length 16b of about 0.25 inches. However, other suitable values are possible for the diameter 16d and length 16b, and in other embodiments the first chamber 16 can have shapes other than cylindrical (e.g., cubic). As shown in FIG. 2A-2B, the first chamber 16 is sized to receive a diffuser element 200 therein, which is further described below.

The first chamber 16 has a distal opening 16c that fluidly communicates the first chamber 16 with an aeration chamber 18 that is distal of the first chamber 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the aeration chamber 18 is defined within the neck portion 30 and is generally cylindrical in shape. In one embodiment the aeration chamber 18 can have a diameter 18d of between about 0.2 and 0.4 inches and has a length 16b of between about 0.2 an 0.5 inches. In another embodiment, the aeration chamber 18 can have a diameter 18d of about 0.25 inches and a length 18b of about 0.3 inches. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter 18d of the aeration chamber 18 is smaller than the diameter 16d of the first chamber 16. However, other suitable values are possible for the diameter 18d and length 18b, and in other embodiments the aeration chamber 18 can have shapes other than cylindrical (e.g., cubic).

With continued reference to FIGS. 2A-5, the aerator device 100 can have one or more passages 20 that extend from an outer surface 30a of the neck portion 30 to the aeration chamber 18 and fluidly communicate the aeration chamber 18 with the outside of the aerator device 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the aerator device 100 has four passages 20 disposed generally at 90° relative to each other, with each two of the passages 20 disposed on opposite sides of the aeration chamber 18 from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, one pair of passages 20a are disposed opposite each other in the aeration chamber 18, and a second pair of passages 20b (shown normal to the page) are disposed opposite to each other in the aeration chamber 18. As shown, for example, in FIG. 2B, the passages 20b are located on a plane downstream of a plane on which the passages 20a are located, so that the aeration chamber 18 has four passages 20 with two passages 20a in a proximal section of the chamber 18 and two passages 20b in a distal section of the chamber 18. The offset passages 20 advantageously provides for improved aeration of the fluid as it passes through the aeration chamber 18. In one embodiment, the passages 20a can be located about halfway along the length of the aeration chamber 18. However, in other embodiments, the aerator device 100 can have fewer or more passages. The passages 20 extend from an outer opening 22 on the outer surface 30a of the neck portion 30 to an inner opening 24 on a surface of the aeration chamber 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the passages 20 extend generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis (e.g., axis of symmetry) X of the aerator device 100. In another embodiment, the passages 20 can extend at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis X of the aerator device 100. As shown, for example, in FIG. 2B-3A, the passages 20 can be conical and extend from a narrow end at the inner opening 24 to a wide end at the outer opening 22. In one embodiment, the inner opening 24 can have a diameter 24a of between about 0.005 and 0.020 inches and the outer opening 22 can have a diameter 22a of between about 0.02 and 0.04 inches.

The aeration chamber 18 can have a distal opening 18a that fluidly communicates the aeration chamber 18 with a passage 32 that is distal of the aeration chamber 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the passage 32 is defined by a surface 30b within the neck and end portions 30, 50 and is generally frustoconical in shape. In one embodiment, the distal opening 18a, which corresponds to the proximal end of the passage 32, can have a diameter 32a of between about 0.1 and 0.2 inches. In another embodiment, the distal opening 18a can have a diameter 32a of about 0.18 inches. The passage 32 can also have a distal opening 50a at the distal end D of the aerator device 100 with a diameter 32b of between about 0.3 and 0.5 inches, where the diameter 32b of the distal opening 50a is greater than the diameter 32a. In another embodiment, the distal opening 32b can have a diameter of about 0.45 inches. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter 32a is smaller than the diameter 18d of the aeration chamber 18. However, other suitable values are possible for the diameter 32a, and in other embodiments the passage 32 can have shapes other than frustoconical (e.g., cylindrical).

With reference to FIG. 2B, the end portion 50 of the aerator device 100 can have a generally cylindrical portion 52 and a tapered portion 54 that extends from the cylindrical portion 52 to the distal end D of the aerator device 100. The end portion 50 can also have one or more channels 56 formed on an outer surface 50b thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the aerator device 100 has four channels 56 distributed about the circumference of the end portion 50. However, in other embodiments, the aerator device 100 can have fewer or more channels about the circumference of the end portion 50.

With reference to FIG. 3B, the aerator device 100 can have a length L of between about 4 inches and about 7 inches. In one embodiment, the length L can be about 6 inches. The cup portion 10 can have an outer diameter 10a of between about 2 inches and 3 inches. In one embodiment, the outer diameter 10a can be about 2.4 inches. The cup portion 10 can have a first section length 10b of between about 1 inch and about 2 inches. In one embodiment, the first section length 10b can be about 1.6 inches. The recessed section 12d of the cup portion 10 can have a length 10c of between about 0.5 inches and about 1 inch. In one embodiment, the length 10c can be about 0.7 inches. The outer surface 12c of the wall 12 of the cup portion 10 can have a radius of curvature 10d of between about 1 inch and about 2 inches. In one embodiment, the radius of curvature 10d of the outer surface 12c can be about 1.2 inches. The outer surface 30a of the neck portion 30 can be curved and defined by a radius of curvature 30c of between about 2 inches and about 4 inches. In one embodiment, the radius of curvature 30c of the outer surface 30a can be about 3 inches. The neck portion 30 can have a length 30d of between about 2 inches and about 4 inches. In one embodiment the length 30d of the neck portion 30 can be about 3 inches. The cylindrical portion 52 of the end portion 50 and have an outer diameter 52a of between about 0.5 inches and about 1 inch. In one embodiment, the outer diameter 52a of the cylindrical portion 52 can be about 0.6 inches. The tapered portion 54 of the end portion 50 can have a distal outer diameter 54a of between about 0.4 inches and about 0.75 inches. In one embodiment, the distal outer diameter 54a can be about 0.6 inches. The end portion 50 can be sized and shaped to extend into and fit within an opening of a bottle (not shown), such as the opening of a wine bottle, as further discussed below. The first chamber 16, aeration chamber 18 and passage 32 define a fluid flow path F between the cavity 14 of the cup portion 10 and the distal end D of the aerator device 100.

FIGS. 6A-6D show one embodiment of a diffuser element 200. As shown in FIG. 2A-2B, the diffuser element 200 can be used with the aerator device 100. The diffuser element 200 can have a base portion 210 and a top portion 220. The base portion 210 can have an outer shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the first chamber 16 of the aerator device. In the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 210 is generally cylindrical. The top portion 220 can have one or more arms 222 that extend from the base portion 210 to a proximal end 200a of the diffuser element 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the top portion 220 has four arms 222 that join each other at the proximal end 200a so as to define a cross-shape. The arms 222 are arranged at 90° from each other, so as to define openings 224 between adjacent arms that communicate with a central passage 226 of the diffuser element 200 that extends from the top portion 220 to a distal opening.

The base portion 210 of the diffuser element 200 can have an outer diameter 210a of between about 0.2 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the outer diameter 210a is about 0.4 inches. The base portion 210 can have a length 210b of between about 0.2 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the length 210b can be about 0.25 inches. The passage 226 of the diffuser element 200 can have an inner diameter 210c of between about 0.2 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the diameter 210c can be about 0.25 inches.

The top portion 220 of the diffuser element 200 can have an outer diameter 220a of between about 0.3 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the outer diameter 220a can be about 0.4 inches. The top portion 220 can have a length 220b of between about 0.2 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the length 220b can be about 0.25 inches. Each of the arms 222 can have a width 222a of between about 0.05 inches and about 0.1 inch. In one embodiment, the width 222a can be about 0.08 inches.

As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the diffuser element 200 can be coupled to the aerator device 100 so that the diffuser element 200 at least partially extends into the first chamber 16. In one embodiment, the diffuser element 200 is press-fit into the first chamber 16. In one embodiment, the base portion 210 of the diffuser element 200 substantially completely extends into the first chamber 16 so that the top portion 210 substantially completely extends into the cavity 14 of the cup portion 10. Additionally, the inner diameter 210c of the base portion 210 can be generally equal to the diameter 18d of the aeration chamber 18 of the aerator device 100, so that when the diffuser element 200 is coupled to the aerator device 100 fluid flows between the cavity 14 and the passage 32 passes through a section of substantially constant diameter.

In use, a user can pour a fluid (e.g., wine) into the cavity 14 of the cup portion 10 of the aerator device 100. The fluid can then flow into the top portion 220 the diffuser device 200 and through the passage 226 into the aeration chamber 18 of the aerator device 100. As the fluid flows into the aeration chamber 18 it experiences a drop in pressure, which causes air to be drawn into the aeration chamber 18 from outside the aerator device 100 via the passages 20 so that the air mixes with the fluid in the aeration chamber 18. The fluid then passes into the passage 32 and out the distal end D of the aerator device 100. The top portion 220 of the diffuser device 200 advantageously inhibits the swirling of the fluid as it passes from the cavity 14 into the aeration chamber 18, so that that the fluid flows vertically through the aeration chamber 18 thereby resulting in improved mixture of the fluid with the air that is drawn into the aeration chamber 18. In particular, the arms 222 of the top portion 220 of the diffuser element 200 counteract any swirling action of the fluid as it moves toward the diffuser 200 and guides the fluid flow into a substantially linear and vertical flow through the aeration chamber 18.

FIGS. 7A-7D show another embodiment of an aerator device 100′. The aerator device 100′ is similar to the aerator device 100 described above and can have the same components as the aerator device 100, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of the aerator device 100′ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the aerator device 100 in FIGS. 1-5, except that a “′” has been added to the reference numerals. Unless noted below, the description of the components of the aerator device 100′ is the same as the description of the corresponding components of the aerator device 100 provides above.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity 14′ transitions into a straight section 16′ so that the inner surface 12b′ of the cup portion 10′ transitions from a curved section to a straight or linear section. The straight section 16′ of the cavity 14′ fluidly communicates with the aeration chamber 18′.

The opening 12a′ of the cup portion 10′ can have diameter of between about 1.5 inches and about 3 inches. In one embodiment, the opening 12a′ can have a diameter of about 2 inches. The inner surface 12b′ of the cup portion 10′ can have a curvature defined by a radius of curvature of between about 1 inch and about 2 inches. In one embodiment, the inner surface 12b′ can have a curvature defined by a radius of curvature of about 1.5 inches. The straight section 16′ of the cavity 14′ can have a diameter 16a′ of between about 0.5 inches and about 1 inch. In one embodiment, the diameter 16a′ of the straight section 16′ can be about 3/4 inches. The straight section 16′ can have a length 16b′ of between about 0.1 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the length 16b′ of the straight section 16′ can be about 0.2 inches. The straight section 16′ can have a distal opening 16c′ that communicates with the aeration chamber 18′, and the opening 16c′ can have a diameter 18d′ of between about 0.3 inches and about 0.7 inches, which is substantially constant along the length of the aeration chamber 18′, where the diameter 18′ of the aeration chamber 18′ is smaller than the diameter 16a′ of the straight section 16′. In one embodiment, the diameter 18d′ can be about 0.5 inches. The aeration chamber 18′ can have a length 18b′ of between about 0.2 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the length 18b′ can be about 0.3 inches.

With continued reference to FIGS. 7B-7C, the aerator device 100′ has four passages 20′ disposed generally at 90° relative to each other, with each two of the passages 20′ disposed on opposite sides of the aeration chamber 18′ from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, one pair of passages 20a′ are disposed opposite each other in the aeration chamber 18′, and a second pair of passages 20b′ (shown normal to the page) are disposed opposite to each other in the aeration chamber 18′. As shown, for example, in FIG. 7B, the passages 20b′ are located on a plane upstream of a plane on which the passages 20a′ are located, so that the aeration chamber 18′ has four passages 20′ with two passages 20b′ in a proximal section of the chamber 18′ and two passages 20a′ in a distal section of the chamber 18′. The offset passages 20′ advantageously provides for improved aeration of the fluid as it passes through the aeration chamber 18′. In one embodiment, the passages 20b′ can be located about halfway along the length of the aeration chamber 18′. The inner opening 24′ of the passages 20′ can have a diameter 24a′ of between about 0.01 and 0.03 inches and the outer opening 22′ of the passages 20′ can have a diameter 22a′ of between about 0.02 and 0.04 inches. The passages 20′ can extend generally perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis X of the aerator device 100′.

The aeration chamber 18′ can have a distal opening 18a′ that fluidly communicates the aeration chamber 18′ with the passage 32′. The passage 32′ can have a proximal end diameter 32a′ of between about 0.1 inches and 0.3 inches. In one embodiment, the proximal end diameter 32′ of the passage 32′ can be about 0.2 inches. The passage 32′ can extend to the distal opening 50a′ in the aerator device 100, which can have a distal end diameter 32b′ of between about 0.3 and about 0.7 inches. In one embodiment, the distal end diameter 32b′ can be about 0.5 inches.

FIGS. 8A-8D show another embodiment of a diffuser element 200′. The diffuser element 200′ is similar to the diffuser element 200 described above and can have the same components as the diffuser element 200, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various features of the diffuser element 200′ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features of the diffuser element in FIGS. 6A-6D, except that a “′” has been added to the reference numerals. Unless noted below, the description of the features of the diffuser element 200′ is the same as the description of the corresponding features of the diffuser element 200 provides above.

FIGS. 8A-8D show another embodiment of a diffuser element 200′. As shown in FIGS. 7A-7B, the diffuser element 200′ can be used with the aerator device 100′. The diffuser element 200′ can have a base portion 210′ and a top portion 220′. The base portion 210′ can have an outer shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the straight section 16′ of the aerator device 100′. In the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 210′ is generally cylindrical. The top portion 220′ can have one or more arms 222′ that extend from the base portion 210′ to a proximal end 200a′ of the diffuser element 200′. In the illustrated embodiment, the top portion 220′ has four arms 222′ that join each other at the proximal end 200a′ so as to define a cross-shape. The arms 222′ are arranged at 90° from each other, so as to define openings 224′ between adjacent arms that communicate with a central passage 226′ of the diffuser element 200′ that extends from the top portion 220′ to a distal opening.

The base portion 210′ of the diffuser element 200′ can have an outer diameter 210a′ of between about 0.5 inches and about 1 inch. In one embodiment, the outer diameter 210a′ is about 0.75 inches. The base portion 210′ can have a length 210b′ of between about 0.2 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the length 210b′ can be about 0.25 inches. The passage 226′ of the diffuser element 200′ can have an inner diameter 210c′ of between about 0.2 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the diameter 210c′ can be about 0.25 inches.

The top portion 220′ of the diffuser element 200′ can have a length 220b′ of between about 0.2 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the length 220b′ can be about 0.25 inches. Each of the arms 222′ can have a width 222a′ of between about 0.05 inches and about 0.1 inch. In one embodiment, the width 222a′ can be about 0.08 inches.

As shown in FIGS. 7A-7B, the diffuser element 200′ can be coupled to the aerator device 100′ so that the diffuser element 200′ at least partially extends into the straight section 16′. In one embodiment, the diffuser element 200′ is press-fit into the straight section 16′. In one embodiment, the base portion 210′ of the diffuser element 200′ extends into the straight section 16′ so that the top portion 210′ completely extends into the cavity 14′ of the cup portion 10′.

In use, a user can pour a fluid (e.g., wine) into the cavity 14′ of the cup portion 10′ of the aerator device 100′. The fluid can then flow into the top portion 220′ the diffuser device 200′, and through the openings 224′ and the passage 226′ into the aeration chamber 18′ of the aerator device 100′. As the fluid flows into the aeration chamber 18′, air is drawn by the flow F′ into the aeration chamber 18 from outside the aerator device 100′ via the passages 20′ so that the air mixes with the fluid in the aeration chamber 18′. The fluid then passes into the passage 32′ and out the distal end D′ of the aerator device 100′. The top portion 220′ of the diffuser device 200′ advantageously inhibits the swirling of the fluid as it passes from the cavity 14′ into the aeration chamber 18′, so that that the fluid flows vertically through the aeration chamber 18′ thereby resulting in improved mixture of the fluid with the air that is drawn into the aeration chamber 18′. In particular, the arms 222′ of the top portion 220′ of the diffuser element 200′ counteract any swirling action of the fluid as it moves toward the diffuser 200′ and guides the fluid flow into a substantially linear and vertical flow through the aeration chamber 18′.

FIGS. 9A-9D show another embodiment of an aerator device 100″. The aerator device 100″ is similar to the aerator device 100 described above and can have the same components as the aerator device 100, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of the aerator device 100″ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the aerator device 100 in FIGS. 1-5, except that a “″” has been added to the reference numerals. Unless noted below, the description of the components of the aerator device 100″ is the same as the description of the corresponding components of the aerator device 100 provides above.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cavity 14′ transitions into a straight section 16″ so that the inner surface 12b″ of the cup portion 10″ transitions from a curved section to a straight or linear section. The straight section 16″ of the cavity 14″ is adjacent to and fluidly communicates with the passage 32″.

The opening 12a″ of the cup portion 10″ can have diameter of between about 1.5 inches and about 3 inches. In one embodiment, the opening 12a″ can have a diameter of about 2 inches. The inner surface 12b″ of the cup portion 10″ can have a curvature defined by a radius of curvature 12e″ of between about 1 inch and about 2 inches.

In one embodiment, the radius of curvature 12e″ can be about 1.5 inches. The straight section 16″ of the cavity 14″ can have a diameter 16a″ of between about 0.5 inches and about 1 inch. In one embodiment, the diameter 16a″ of the straight section 16″ can be about ¾ inches. The straight section 16″ can have a length 16b″ of between about 0.1 inches and about 0.5 inches. In one embodiment, the length 16b″ of the straight section 16″ can be about 0.25 inches. The straight section 16″ can have a distal opening 16c″ that communicates with a proximal section 32b″ of the passage 32″, and the opening 16c″ can have a diameter 32a″ of between about 0.4 inches and about 0.8 inches. In one embodiment, the diameter 32a″ can be about 0.6 inches. The passage 32″ can decrease in diameter in a proximal section 32b″ thereof between the distal opening 16c″ and a throat section 32d″ that can have a diameter between 0.1 inches and 0.3 inches. In one embodiment, the diameter of the throat section 32d″ can be about 0.2 inches. The passage 32″ can increase in diameter in a distal section 32c″ thereof between the throat section 32d″ and the distal opening 50a″ of the aerator device 100″, where the distal opening 50a″ can have a diameter of between 0.2 inches and about 0.7 inches. In one embodiment, the diameter of the distal opening 50a″ can be about 0.5 inches.

With continued reference to FIG. 9A-9C, the aerator device 100″ has four passages 20″ disposed generally at 90° relative to each other, with each two of the passages 20″ disposed on opposite sides of the proximal section (aeration section) 32b″ of the passage 32″ from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, one pair of passages 20a″ are disposed opposite each other in the aeration section 32b″, and a second pair of passages 20b″ (shown normal to the page) are disposed opposite to each other in the aeration section 32b″. As shown, for example, in FIG. 9B, the passages 20b″ are located on a plane upstream of a plane on which the passages 20a″ are located, so that the aeration section 32b″ has four passages 20″ with two passages 20b″ in a proximal section of the aeration section 32b″ and two passages 20a″ in a distal section of the aeration section 32b″. The offset passages 20″ advantageously provides for improved aeration of the fluid as it passes through the aeration section 32b″. The passages 20a″ can be disposed in the proximal section 32b″ (e.g., aeration section) of the passage 32″ at a location proximal of the throat section 32d″ of the passage 32″, that is between the distal opening 16c of the straight section 16″ and the throat section 32d″. However, in other embodiments, the passages 20a″ can be located at the throat section 32d″ or in the distal section 32c″ of the passage 32″. The inner opening 24″ of the passages 20″ can have a diameter 24a″ of between about 0.005 and 0.02 inches and the outer opening 22″ of the passages 20″ can have a diameter 22a″ of between about 0.02 and 0.04 inches. The passages 20″ can extend generally perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis X of the aerator device 100″.

As shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, the diffuser element 200′, as described above, can be used with the aerator device 100″. The diffuser element 200′ can be coupled to the aerator device 100″ so that the diffuser element 200′ at least partially extends into the straight section 16″. In one embodiment, the diffuser element 200′ is press-fit into the straight section 16″. In one embodiment, the base portion 210′ of the diffuser element 200′ extends substantially completely into the straight section 16″ so that the top portion 210′ completely extends into the cavity 14″ of the cup portion 10″.

In use, a user can pour a fluid (e.g., wine) into the cavity 14″ of the cup portion 10″ of the aerator device 100″. The fluid can then flow into the top portion 220′ the diffuser device 200′, and through the openings 224′ and the passage 226′ into the passage 32″ of the aerator device 100″. As the fluid flows into the proximal section 32b″ of the passage 32″, air is drawn by the flow F″ into the passage 32″ from outside the aerator device 100″ via the passages 20″ so that the air mixes with the fluid in the proximal section 32b″ before the fluid passes through the throat section 32d″ of the passage 32″. The fluid then flows into the distal section 32c″ of the passage 32′ and out the distal end D′ of the aerator device 100′. The top portion 220′ of the diffuser device 200′ advantageously inhibits the swirling of the fluid as it passes from the cavity 14″ into the proximal section 32b″ of the passage 32″, so that that the fluid flows vertically through the proximal section 32b″ thereby resulting in improved mixture of the fluid with the air that is drawn into the proximal section 32b″. In particular, the arms 222′ of the top portion 220′ of the diffuser element 200′ counteract any swirling action of the fluid as it moves toward the diffuser 200′ and guides the fluid flow into a substantially linear and vertical flow through the proximal section 32b″ of the passage 32″.

FIGS. 10A-10D show another embodiment of an aerator device 100′″. The aerator device 100′″ is similar to the aerator device 100 described above and can have the same components as the aerator device 100, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of the aerator device 100′″ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the aerator device 100 in FIGS. 1-5, except that a “′″” has been added to the reference numerals. Unless noted below, the description of the components of the aerator device 100″ is the same as the description of the corresponding components of the aerator device 100 provides above.

In the illustrated embodiment, the aerator device 100′″ does not have a fill indicator or line 14a defined on the inner surface 12b′″ of the wall 12′″. Additionally, the aerator device 100″ does not have one or more channels 56 formed on an outer surface 50b′″ of the end portion 50″ of the aerator device 100″. Further, the aerator device 100″ has two passages 20′″ formed in the neck portion 30′″ and that extend from an outer surface 30a′″ of the neck portion 30′″ to the aeration chamber 18″. The passages 20′″ are disposed on opposite sides of the aeration chamber 18″ at about halfway down the length of the aeration chamber 18′″. However, the aeration device 100′″ can have fewer or more passages 20′″ that can be located more proximally or more distally within the aeration chamber 18′″.

The end portion 50″ can have a length 50c″ of between about 10 mm and about 30 mm, more preferably about 20 mm. The cylindrical section 52″ of the end portion 50″ can have a length of between about 5 mm and about 20 mm, more preferably about 12 mm.

FIGS. 11A-11D show another embodiment of a diffuser element 200″ for use with the aerator device 100′″. The diffuser element 200″ is similar to the diffuser element 200 described above and can have the same features as the diffuser element 200, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various features of the diffuser element 200″ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding features of the diffuser element 200 in FIGS. 6A-6D, except that a “″” has been added to the reference numerals. Unless noted below, the description of the features of the diffuser element 200″ is the same as the description of the corresponding features of the diffuser element 200 provides above.

The diffuser element 200″ can have a base portion 210″ and a top portion 220″. The base portion 210″ can have an outer shape that generally corresponds to the shape of the first chamber 16′″ of the aerator device 100″. In the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 210″ is generally cylindrical. The top portion 220″ can have one or more arms 222″ that extend from the base portion 210″ to a proximal end 200a″ of the diffuser element 200″. In the illustrated embodiment, the top portion 220″ has four arms 222″ that join each other at the proximal end 200a″ so as to define a cross-shape. The arms 222″ are arranged at 90° from each other, so as to define openings 224″ between adjacent arms that communicate with a central passage 226″ of the diffuser element 200″ that extends from the top portion 220″ to a distal opening.

The base portion 210″ of the diffuser element 200″ can have an outer diameter 210a″ of about 10 mm. The base portion 210″ can have a length 210b″ of between about 5 mm and 10 mm, more preferably about 6 mm. The passage 226″ of the diffuser element 200″ can have an inner diameter 210c″ of between about 4 mm and bout 9 mm, more preferably about 6 mm. The passage 226″ can have a height of about 5 mm.

The top portion 220″ of the diffuser element 200″ can have an outer diameter 220a″ of about 10 mm and an angle 210c″ of about 2°. The diffuser element 200″ can have a height of about 10-15 mm. Each of the arms 222″ can have a width 222a″ of between about 0.05 inches and about 0.1 inch. In one embodiment, the width 222a″ can be about 0.08 inches. The arms 222″ can have a lower width 222b″ of about 2 mm and taper toward the proximal end 200a″ at an angle of about 4°.

The diffuser element 200″ can be coupled to the aerator device 100′″ so that the diffuser element 200″ at least partially extends into the first chamber 16′″. In one embodiment, the diffuser element 200″ is press-fit into the first chamber 16′″. In one embodiment, the base portion 210″ of the diffuser element 200″ substantially completely extends into the first chamber 16′″ so that the top portion 210″ substantially completely extends into the cavity 14′″ of the cup portion 10′″. Additionally, the inner diameter 210c″ of the base portion 210″ can be generally equal to the diameter 18d′″ of the aeration chamber 18′″ of the aerator device 100′″, so that when the diffuser element 200″ is coupled to the aerator device 100′″ fluid flows between the cavity 14′″ and the passage 32′″ passes through a section of substantially constant diameter.

In use, a user can pour a fluid (e.g., wine) into the cavity 14′″ of the cup portion 10′″ of the aerator device 100′″. The fluid can then flow into the top portion 220″ the diffuser device 200″ and through the passage 226″ into the aeration chamber 18′″ of the aerator device 100′″. As the fluid flows into the aeration chamber 18′″ it experiences a drop in pressure, which causes air to be drawn into the aeration chamber 18′″ from outside the aerator device 100′″ via the passages 20′″ so that the air mixes with the fluid in the aeration chamber 18′″. The fluid then passes into the passage 32′″ and out the distal end D′″ of the aerator device 100″. The top portion 220″ of the diffuser device 200″ advantageously inhibits the swirling of the fluid as it passes from the cavity 14′″ into the aeration chamber 18′″, so that that the fluid flows vertically through the aeration chamber 18′″ thereby resulting in improved mixture of the fluid with the air that is drawn into the aeration chamber 18′″. In particular, the arms 222″ of the top portion 220″ of the diffuser element 200″ counteract any swirling action of the fluid as it moves toward the diffuser 200″ and guides the fluid flow into a substantially linear and vertical flow through the aeration chamber 18″.

The aerator device 100, 100′, 100″, 100′″ and diffuser element 200, 200′, 200″ can be made of a plastic material, such as PMMA. However, other suitable materials, such as hard plastics, can be used. In one embodiment, the aerator device 100, 100′, 100″, 100′″ and diffuser element 200, 200′, 200″ are made of a transparent or translucent material.

FIGS. 12A-12C show one embodiment of a band 300 that can be positioned in the recessed section 12d, 12d′, 12d″, 12d′″ of the aerator device 100, 100′, 100″, 100′″. The band 300 can have a proximal end diameter 310 of between about 1.5 inches and about 3 inches. In one embodiment, the proximal end diameter 310 can be about 2 inches. The band 300 can also have a distal end diameter 320 of between about 1 inch and about 2 inches. In one embodiment, the distal end diameter 320 can be about 1.5 inches. The band 300 can have a frustoconical shape, with an outer surface 330 that extends at an angle 332 of between about 90° and about 150°. In one embodiment, the angle 332 can be about 100°. The band 300 can have an inner diameter 340 at the distal end of between about 1 inch and about 1.5 inches, and more preferably about 1.3 inches. The thickness 350 of the band 300 can be between about 0.1 inches and about 0.3 inches, more preferably about 0.2 inches.

The band 300 can be made of an elastic material, such as rubber, and fit in the recessed section 12d, 12d′, 12d″, 12d′″ so that the outer surface 330 of the band 300 is flush with the outer surface 12c, 12c′, 12c″, 12c′″ of the cup portion 10, 10′, 10″, 10′″. Advantageously, the outer surface 330 of the band 300 provides a gripping surface, which may have a textured surface, to allow the user to hold the aerator device 100, 100′, 100″, 100′″ while inhibiting the device from slipping from the user's grasp.

FIGS. 13A-13C show one embodiment of a gasket 400 that can be used with the aerator device 100, 100′, 100″.

The gasket 400 can have a distal end diameter 420 of between about 0.5 inches and about 1 inch. In one embodiment, the distal end diameter 420 can be about ¾ inches. The gasket 400 can also have a proximal end diameter 430 of between about ¾ inch and about 2 inches. In one embodiment, the proximal end diameter 430 can be about 1 inch. The gasket 400 can have a frustoconical shape, with an outer surface 440 that extends at an angle 442 of between about 30° and about 50°. In one embodiment, the angle 442 can be about 40°. The gasket 400 can have an inner diameter 410 at the distal end of between about 0.5 inches and about 1 inch, and more preferably about 0.7 inches.

In use, a user can place the gasket 400 on an opening of a bottle, such as the opening of a wine bottle, so that the distal end 420 is adjacent the bottle opening, the user can then insert the end portion 50, 50′, 50″ of the aerator device 100, 100′, 100″ into the bottle opening so that the end portion 50, 50′, 50″ extends through the opening of the gasket 400. Advantageously, the gasket 400 supports the aerator device 100, 100′, 100″ on the bottle while a user pours wine back into the bottle via the aerator device 100, 100′, 100″, while the channels 56, 56′, 56″ allow air to escape from the bottle as the wine is poured in. Once the user is done pouring wine back into the bottle, the aerator device 100, 100′, 100″ and gasket 400 can be removed from the bottle.

Though the embodiments above are described in connection with aerating wine, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that aerator device 100, 100′, 100″ can be used to aerate any kind of fluid.

Of course, the foregoing description is that of certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention, to which various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Moreover, the aerator device need not feature all of the objects, advantages, features and aspects discussed above. Thus, for example, those of skill in the art will recognize that the invention can be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications and methods of use, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of these specific features and aspects of embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the discussed aerator device.

WINE AERATOR

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