CA2613472C - Container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds - Google Patents
Container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds Download PDFInfo
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- CA2613472C CA2613472C CA2613472A CA2613472A CA2613472C CA 2613472 C CA2613472 C CA 2613472C CA 2613472 A CA2613472 A CA 2613472A CA 2613472 A CA2613472 A CA 2613472A CA 2613472 C CA2613472 C CA 2613472C
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- container
- container portion
- coffee grounds
- pouring
- wet
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- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 59
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 39
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 16
- 230000004308 accommodation Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 claims 1
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 235000012489 doughnuts Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000010411 cooking Methods 0.000 description 2
- 235000013305 food Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003670 easy-to-clean Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002244 precipitate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/44—Parts or details or accessories of beverage-making apparatus
- A47J31/60—Cleaning devices
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Food Science & Technology (AREA)
- Apparatus For Making Beverages (AREA)
Abstract
A container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, and for permitting water to drain from the wet used coffee grounds, and for subsequent separate disposal of the water and wet used coffee grounds, comprises a lower container portion for receiving and retaining liquid therein, wherein the lower container portion has peripheral walls, a floor, and a pouring spout. There is also an upper container portion for receiving wet used coffee grounds therein. The upper container portion has a plurality of apertures therein, for permitting water from the wet used coffee grounds to pass into the lower container portion, thus substantially separating the water from the wet used coffee grounds. There is at least one pouring wall portion. Each pouring wall portion slopes downwardly and inwardly to the floor of the lower container portion.
Description
CONTAINER FOR RECEIVING AND RETAINING
WET USED COFFEE GROUNDS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to containers for receiving and retaining used coffee grounds, and more particularly to containers for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, which containers also permit separation of water from the used coffee grounds.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002[ It is common in fast-serve coffee shops, donut shops and the like, to change the coffee grounds in each coffee brewing machine very frequently, perhaps several times a day for each coffee brewing machine. Typically, the wet used grounds are merely emptied into a bucket adjacent the coffee brewing machine. Subsequently, when the bucket is nearly full, the wet used grounds in the bucket are emptied into a larger garbage container, usually outside of the building. Unfortunately, there are a number of problems with this method of disposing of wet coffee grounds. The most significant problem is that of weight. Wet coffee grounds weigh approximately three times as much as the same coffee grounds when they are dry. This makes the coffee grounds somewhat difficult tohandle, especially for some persons. More significantly, the disposal of refuse is often charged in terms of weight. Accordingly, it is much more expensive to dispose of wet coffee grounds that are three times as heavy as dry coffee grounds.
[0003] Secondarily, the excess water in the coffee grounds is transferred to the garbage container, which tends to cause an excessive and undesirable mess in the garbage container, especially with the other garbage in the garbage container. Further, the water may freeze during cold winter months, depending on the location of the garbage container, thus making it very difficult to subsequently remove garbage from the garbage container.
The garbage container may even become damaged by the frozen water.
[0004] Also, it is virtually inevitable that the articles of clothing, typically pants and a shirt, worn by the person who is emptying the wet used coffee grounds, become soiled and stained by the wet used coffee grounds. This is usually undesirable as the same person would also serve customers during the same work shift.
[0005] In some fast-serve coffee shops, donut shops and the like, double buckets are used, which have an outer bucket and an inner sieve type bucket having a plurality of holes therein. The inner sieve type bucket is supported by the outer bucket, with sufficient vertical space between the bottom of the inner sieve type bucket and the floor of the outer bucket to receive and retain water therein. In use, the wet used coffee grounds are deposited into the inner sieve type bucket. The water in the wet coffee grounds slowly drips through the holes in the inner sieve type bucket and drips into the outer bucket. Accordingly, the wet coffee grounds end up merely being damp.
[0006] In order to empty the double bucket, the inner sieve type bucket is first lifted from the outer bucket and the damp coffee grounds are emptied into a larger garbage container.
The water in the outer bucket is poured down a drain. The inner sieve type bucket is then replaced in the outer bucket.
[0007] The main disadvantage of using a double bucket for temporarily collecting and storing coffee grounds is that the inner sieve type bucket must be removed from the outer bucket in order to remove the coffee grounds and water, which removal is cumbersome and messy.
[0008] Various other types of containers having an upper receptacle with perforations therein, such as a colander, and a lower solid container that receives the upper receptacle, are well known in the prior art. Such containers are used to drain various types of food, waste material, and so on.
[0009] United States Patent No. 5,853,581 issued December 29, 1998 to Rayborn et al., discloses a Drain Bucket having colander-like receptacle mounted over a portable liquid storage container. The container has a drain valve and also casters to permit its rolling. Interlocking male fins in the receptacle engage slots in the container and are locked together by turning the receptacle relative to the container. A male retaining slot in the container adjacent the slot can lock the container and receptacle together when turned.
Items such as dishes, glassware or other kitchen items, are placed in the receptacle to be drained of their liquids, which precipitate into the container below. The drained liquids are stored in the container until sufficiently full. These stored liquids may be drained off via a manually operable valve to permit the containers reuse.
[0010] United States Patent No. 5,988,050 issued November 23, 1999 to Foster Jr., discloses a Container Assembly for keeping food stored therein fresh. The container assembly includes a plurality of nested members each having abowl-shaped configuration comprising exterior and interior surfaces, a base and a perimeter side wall extending upwardly around the base. The perimeter side wall terminates at an upper edge.
The
WET USED COFFEE GROUNDS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to containers for receiving and retaining used coffee grounds, and more particularly to containers for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, which containers also permit separation of water from the used coffee grounds.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002[ It is common in fast-serve coffee shops, donut shops and the like, to change the coffee grounds in each coffee brewing machine very frequently, perhaps several times a day for each coffee brewing machine. Typically, the wet used grounds are merely emptied into a bucket adjacent the coffee brewing machine. Subsequently, when the bucket is nearly full, the wet used grounds in the bucket are emptied into a larger garbage container, usually outside of the building. Unfortunately, there are a number of problems with this method of disposing of wet coffee grounds. The most significant problem is that of weight. Wet coffee grounds weigh approximately three times as much as the same coffee grounds when they are dry. This makes the coffee grounds somewhat difficult tohandle, especially for some persons. More significantly, the disposal of refuse is often charged in terms of weight. Accordingly, it is much more expensive to dispose of wet coffee grounds that are three times as heavy as dry coffee grounds.
[0003] Secondarily, the excess water in the coffee grounds is transferred to the garbage container, which tends to cause an excessive and undesirable mess in the garbage container, especially with the other garbage in the garbage container. Further, the water may freeze during cold winter months, depending on the location of the garbage container, thus making it very difficult to subsequently remove garbage from the garbage container.
The garbage container may even become damaged by the frozen water.
[0004] Also, it is virtually inevitable that the articles of clothing, typically pants and a shirt, worn by the person who is emptying the wet used coffee grounds, become soiled and stained by the wet used coffee grounds. This is usually undesirable as the same person would also serve customers during the same work shift.
[0005] In some fast-serve coffee shops, donut shops and the like, double buckets are used, which have an outer bucket and an inner sieve type bucket having a plurality of holes therein. The inner sieve type bucket is supported by the outer bucket, with sufficient vertical space between the bottom of the inner sieve type bucket and the floor of the outer bucket to receive and retain water therein. In use, the wet used coffee grounds are deposited into the inner sieve type bucket. The water in the wet coffee grounds slowly drips through the holes in the inner sieve type bucket and drips into the outer bucket. Accordingly, the wet coffee grounds end up merely being damp.
[0006] In order to empty the double bucket, the inner sieve type bucket is first lifted from the outer bucket and the damp coffee grounds are emptied into a larger garbage container.
The water in the outer bucket is poured down a drain. The inner sieve type bucket is then replaced in the outer bucket.
[0007] The main disadvantage of using a double bucket for temporarily collecting and storing coffee grounds is that the inner sieve type bucket must be removed from the outer bucket in order to remove the coffee grounds and water, which removal is cumbersome and messy.
[0008] Various other types of containers having an upper receptacle with perforations therein, such as a colander, and a lower solid container that receives the upper receptacle, are well known in the prior art. Such containers are used to drain various types of food, waste material, and so on.
[0009] United States Patent No. 5,853,581 issued December 29, 1998 to Rayborn et al., discloses a Drain Bucket having colander-like receptacle mounted over a portable liquid storage container. The container has a drain valve and also casters to permit its rolling. Interlocking male fins in the receptacle engage slots in the container and are locked together by turning the receptacle relative to the container. A male retaining slot in the container adjacent the slot can lock the container and receptacle together when turned.
Items such as dishes, glassware or other kitchen items, are placed in the receptacle to be drained of their liquids, which precipitate into the container below. The drained liquids are stored in the container until sufficiently full. These stored liquids may be drained off via a manually operable valve to permit the containers reuse.
[0010] United States Patent No. 5,988,050 issued November 23, 1999 to Foster Jr., discloses a Container Assembly for keeping food stored therein fresh. The container assembly includes a plurality of nested members each having abowl-shaped configuration comprising exterior and interior surfaces, a base and a perimeter side wall extending upwardly around the base. The perimeter side wall terminates at an upper edge.
The
- 2 -nested members include an outer bowl, a filter, and an inner bowl. The filter is rested inside the outer bowl. The inner bowl is rested inside the filter such that the filter is interposed between the inner and outer bowls. The inner bowlhas a plurality of spaced apart holes therethrough. A lid assembly isprovided for substantiallycovering upper opening of the outer bowl.
[0011] United States Patent No. 6,546,849 issued April 15, 2003 to Shimazaki, discloses a Cooking System With Reversible Multi-Function Top. The system comprises a pot, a reversible top and lid, which can be used individually and collectively, to function as a cooking pot, colander, steamer and strainer.
[0012] In each case, the referenced prior art units do not contemplate the draining of coffee grounds and do not accommodate the pouring off of liquid from the bottom container.
[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately.
[0014] It is another object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, wherein the subsequent disposal of the coffee grounds and water is easier than with prior art containers meant for the same purpose.
[0015] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, wherein the subsequent disposal of the coffee grounds and water can be performed without separating one part of the container from another part of the container.
[00161 It is a further object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, wherein the articles of clothing, typically pants and a shirt, worn by the person who is emptying the wet used coffee grounds, are less likely to become soiled and stained by the wet used coffee grounds.
[0011] United States Patent No. 6,546,849 issued April 15, 2003 to Shimazaki, discloses a Cooking System With Reversible Multi-Function Top. The system comprises a pot, a reversible top and lid, which can be used individually and collectively, to function as a cooking pot, colander, steamer and strainer.
[0012] In each case, the referenced prior art units do not contemplate the draining of coffee grounds and do not accommodate the pouring off of liquid from the bottom container.
[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately.
[0014] It is another object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, wherein the subsequent disposal of the coffee grounds and water is easier than with prior art containers meant for the same purpose.
[0015] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, wherein the subsequent disposal of the coffee grounds and water can be performed without separating one part of the container from another part of the container.
[00161 It is a further object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, wherein the articles of clothing, typically pants and a shirt, worn by the person who is emptying the wet used coffee grounds, are less likely to become soiled and stained by the wet used coffee grounds.
- 3 -[0017] It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, wherein the cleaning of the container is minimized.
[0018] It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, and which container increases the efficiency of disposal of the separated coffee grounds.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0019] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, and for permitting water to drain from the wet used coffee grounds, and for subsequent separate disposal of the water and wet used coffee grounds. The container comprises a lower container portion havingafloorandperipheral walls extending upwardly from the floor and terminating in a mouth. The lower container portion is for receiving and retaining liquid therein. A filter means is operatively mounted on the lower container portion for receiving wet used coffee grounds therein, for permitting water from the wet used coffee grounds to pass into the lower container portion, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into the lower container portion, thus substantially separating the water from the wet used coffee grounds. There is at least one pouring wall portion lower container portion. Each pouring wall portion slopes downwardly and inwardly to the floor of the lower container portion.
[0020] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, and for permitting water to drain from the wet used coffee grounds, and for subsequent separate disposal of the water and wet used coffee grounds. The container comprises a lower container portion having a floor and peripheral walls extending upwardly from the floor and terminating in a mouth. The lower container portion is for receiving and retaining liquid therein. A filter means is operatively mounted on the lower container portion for receiving wet used coffee grounds therein, for permitting water from the wet used coffee grounds to pass into the lower container portion, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into the lower container portion, thus
[0018] It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a container for receiving used wet coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, and which container increases the efficiency of disposal of the separated coffee grounds.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0019] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, and for permitting water to drain from the wet used coffee grounds, and for subsequent separate disposal of the water and wet used coffee grounds. The container comprises a lower container portion havingafloorandperipheral walls extending upwardly from the floor and terminating in a mouth. The lower container portion is for receiving and retaining liquid therein. A filter means is operatively mounted on the lower container portion for receiving wet used coffee grounds therein, for permitting water from the wet used coffee grounds to pass into the lower container portion, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into the lower container portion, thus substantially separating the water from the wet used coffee grounds. There is at least one pouring wall portion lower container portion. Each pouring wall portion slopes downwardly and inwardly to the floor of the lower container portion.
[0020] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, and for permitting water to drain from the wet used coffee grounds, and for subsequent separate disposal of the water and wet used coffee grounds. The container comprises a lower container portion having a floor and peripheral walls extending upwardly from the floor and terminating in a mouth. The lower container portion is for receiving and retaining liquid therein. A filter means is operatively mounted on the lower container portion for receiving wet used coffee grounds therein, for permitting water from the wet used coffee grounds to pass into the lower container portion, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into the lower container portion, thus
- 4 -substantially separating the water from the wet used coffee grounds. There is a deformable portion on one of the lower container portion and the upper container portion to provide an interference fit between the lower container portion and the upper container portion, to thereby preclude unintentional removal of the upper container portion from the lower container portion.
[0021] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, and for permitting water to drain from the wet used coffee grounds, and for subsequent separate disposal of the water and wet used coffee grounds. The container comprises a lower container portion having a floor and peripheral walls extending upwardly from the floor and terminating in a mouth. The lower container portion is for receiving and retaining liquid therein. A filter means is operatively mounted on the lower container portion for receiving wet used coffee grounds therein, for permitting water from the wet used coffee grounds to pass into the lower container portion, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into the lower container portion, thus substantially separating the water from the wet used coffee grounds. The upper container portion further comprises a baffle portion.
[0022] Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described herein below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention, as to its structure, function, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which the presently preferred embodiments of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
[0021] In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is disclosed a novel container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, and for permitting water to drain from the wet used coffee grounds, and for subsequent separate disposal of the water and wet used coffee grounds. The container comprises a lower container portion having a floor and peripheral walls extending upwardly from the floor and terminating in a mouth. The lower container portion is for receiving and retaining liquid therein. A filter means is operatively mounted on the lower container portion for receiving wet used coffee grounds therein, for permitting water from the wet used coffee grounds to pass into the lower container portion, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into the lower container portion, thus substantially separating the water from the wet used coffee grounds. The upper container portion further comprises a baffle portion.
[0022] Other advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention, as well as methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description and the appended claims with reference to the accompanying drawings, the latter of which is briefly described herein below.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention, as to its structure, function, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which the presently preferred embodiments of the invention will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the invention. In the accompanying drawings:
- 5 -[0024] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the first preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention;
[0025] Figure 2 is a perspective view from a different direction of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1;
[0026] Figure 3 is perspective view of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1, with the upper container portion and the lower container portion separated;
[0027] Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of two of the first preferred embodiment containers of Figure 1 stacked one on top of the other;
[0028] Figure 5 is a perspective view from the side of two of the first preferred embodiment containers of Figure 1 stacked one on top of the other;
[0029] Figure 6 is a sectional side elevational view of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1;
[00301 Figure 7 is a sectional side elevational view of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1, shown pouring water from the lower container portion;
[0031] Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1, showing the upper container portion in dashed lining;
[0032] Figure 9 is a sectional side elevational view of a portion of the first preferred embodiment of the container of Figure 1, taken along section line 9 -9 of Figure 8;
[0033] Figure 10 is a sectional side elevational view similar to Figure 9, but with the upper container portion separated from the lower container portion;
100341 Figure 11 is a perspective view of the second preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention;
[0035] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the second preferred embodiment container of Figure 11, taken along section line 12-12 of Figure 11;
[0036] Figure 13 IS a sectional side elevational view of the second preferred embodiment container of Figure 11, shown pouring water from the lower container portion;
[0037] Figure 14 is a sectional side elevational view of a portion of the second preferred embodiment of the container of Figure 11, taken along section line 9-9 of Figure 8;
[0038] Figure 15 is a cut-away view of the third preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention;
[0025] Figure 2 is a perspective view from a different direction of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1;
[0026] Figure 3 is perspective view of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1, with the upper container portion and the lower container portion separated;
[0027] Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of two of the first preferred embodiment containers of Figure 1 stacked one on top of the other;
[0028] Figure 5 is a perspective view from the side of two of the first preferred embodiment containers of Figure 1 stacked one on top of the other;
[0029] Figure 6 is a sectional side elevational view of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1;
[00301 Figure 7 is a sectional side elevational view of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1, shown pouring water from the lower container portion;
[0031] Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the first preferred embodiment container of Figure 1, showing the upper container portion in dashed lining;
[0032] Figure 9 is a sectional side elevational view of a portion of the first preferred embodiment of the container of Figure 1, taken along section line 9 -9 of Figure 8;
[0033] Figure 10 is a sectional side elevational view similar to Figure 9, but with the upper container portion separated from the lower container portion;
100341 Figure 11 is a perspective view of the second preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention;
[0035] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the second preferred embodiment container of Figure 11, taken along section line 12-12 of Figure 11;
[0036] Figure 13 IS a sectional side elevational view of the second preferred embodiment container of Figure 11, shown pouring water from the lower container portion;
[0037] Figure 14 is a sectional side elevational view of a portion of the second preferred embodiment of the container of Figure 11, taken along section line 9-9 of Figure 8;
[0038] Figure 15 is a cut-away view of the third preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention;
- 6 -=
[0039] Figure 16 is a cut-away view of the fourth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention; and, [0040] Figure 17 is a cut-away view of the fifth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0041] Referring to Figures 1 through 17 of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1 through 10 illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, Figures 11 through 14 illustrate a second preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, Figure 15 illustrates a third preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, Figure 16 illustrates a fourth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, and Figure 17 illustrates a fifth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention.
[0042] Reference will now be made to Figures 1 through 10, which show a first preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 20.
The container 20 is for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds 22, and for permitting water 24 to drain from the wet used coffee grounds 22. The container 20 is also for subsequent separate disposal of the water 24 and wet used coffee grounds 22. The container 20 basically comprises a filter means 30 for receiving wet used coffee grounds 22 therein, and a lower container portion 40 for receiving and retaining liquid therein, which liquid has dripped from the wet coffee grounds in the filter means 30 and through the filter means 30 into the lower container portion 40. The filter means 30 is removable from and replaceable into the lower container portion 40, as will be discussed in greater detail subsequently.
[0043] The lower container portion 40 has peripheral walls, specifically left and right side walls 42, 44, and front and back end walls 46, 48, that project upwardly from a floor 50 to terminate in a mouth 51 having a substantially horizontal peripheral lip portion 52. Preferably, the peripheral lip portion 52 is "heavy duty"
[0039] Figure 16 is a cut-away view of the fourth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention; and, [0040] Figure 17 is a cut-away view of the fifth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0041] Referring to Figures 1 through 17 of the drawings, it will be noted that Figures 1 through 10 illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, Figures 11 through 14 illustrate a second preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, Figure 15 illustrates a third preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, Figure 16 illustrates a fourth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, and Figure 17 illustrates a fifth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention.
[0042] Reference will now be made to Figures 1 through 10, which show a first preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 20.
The container 20 is for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds 22, and for permitting water 24 to drain from the wet used coffee grounds 22. The container 20 is also for subsequent separate disposal of the water 24 and wet used coffee grounds 22. The container 20 basically comprises a filter means 30 for receiving wet used coffee grounds 22 therein, and a lower container portion 40 for receiving and retaining liquid therein, which liquid has dripped from the wet coffee grounds in the filter means 30 and through the filter means 30 into the lower container portion 40. The filter means 30 is removable from and replaceable into the lower container portion 40, as will be discussed in greater detail subsequently.
[0043] The lower container portion 40 has peripheral walls, specifically left and right side walls 42, 44, and front and back end walls 46, 48, that project upwardly from a floor 50 to terminate in a mouth 51 having a substantially horizontal peripheral lip portion 52. Preferably, the peripheral lip portion 52 is "heavy duty"
- 7 -for maximized durability so as to preclude damage that might occur when a filter basket (not specifically shown) is impacted against the peripheral lip portion repeatedly, for the purpose of dislodging wet used coffee grounds 22 from the filter basket. The lower container portion 40 also defines a vertical central axis -A-.
[0044] The lower container portion 40 also comprises a widened base 54 for increased stability. The widened base 54 comprises a downwardly extending bottom edge portion 56. Basically, the bottom edge portion 56 is "wear material". As the container 20 is slid around a floor, the bottom edge portion 56 will slowly wear away, instead of the floor 50 of the lower container portion40. Alternatively, there may be rubber pads secured to the bottom edge portion 56 to preclude the container from sliding around the floor, if it is inadvertently kicked or otherwise bumped.
[0045] Further, the downwardly extending bottom edge portion 56 of the widened base 54 of the lower container portion 40 shaped and dimensioned, or more specifically is Just slightly larger than the peripheral lip portion 52, so as to fit in nesting relation over the mouth 51, and the peripheral lip portion 52. In this manner, the first preferred embodiment container 20 is stackable one on top of another, so as to permit two containers to be retained at one spot, immediately behind the counter of the fast-serve coffee shops, donut shops and the like. Accordingly, only a small amount of floor space is taken up, while making the top container 20 easy to reach.
Also, when the two containers are full, they are each of an acceptable weight for carrying, as opposed to one large container. Further, it is generally easier to carry two smaller containers (one handle grasped in each hand) than one large container. Another advantage is that since the containers 20 are stackable, two containers can be filled before they must be emptied, thereby allowing a longer dwell time for water to drip from the wet used coffee grounds and also larger intervals between trips to a larger garbage container.
[0046] The lower container portion 40 also has a pouring spout 58 for pouring water 24 that has accumulated in the lower container portion 40, after having dripped from the wet coffee grounds in the upper container portion 30. The pouring spout 58 extends outwardly and upwardly from a portion of the peripheral walls 42, 44, 46, 48.
Preferably, there is only one pouring spout 58 disposed on one side of the lower container portion 40, and extending outwardly and upwardly from the front end wall 46, as that is all that is necessary; however, there may be two pouring spouts, or even more than two pouring spouts, if desired.
[0044] The lower container portion 40 also comprises a widened base 54 for increased stability. The widened base 54 comprises a downwardly extending bottom edge portion 56. Basically, the bottom edge portion 56 is "wear material". As the container 20 is slid around a floor, the bottom edge portion 56 will slowly wear away, instead of the floor 50 of the lower container portion40. Alternatively, there may be rubber pads secured to the bottom edge portion 56 to preclude the container from sliding around the floor, if it is inadvertently kicked or otherwise bumped.
[0045] Further, the downwardly extending bottom edge portion 56 of the widened base 54 of the lower container portion 40 shaped and dimensioned, or more specifically is Just slightly larger than the peripheral lip portion 52, so as to fit in nesting relation over the mouth 51, and the peripheral lip portion 52. In this manner, the first preferred embodiment container 20 is stackable one on top of another, so as to permit two containers to be retained at one spot, immediately behind the counter of the fast-serve coffee shops, donut shops and the like. Accordingly, only a small amount of floor space is taken up, while making the top container 20 easy to reach.
Also, when the two containers are full, they are each of an acceptable weight for carrying, as opposed to one large container. Further, it is generally easier to carry two smaller containers (one handle grasped in each hand) than one large container. Another advantage is that since the containers 20 are stackable, two containers can be filled before they must be emptied, thereby allowing a longer dwell time for water to drip from the wet used coffee grounds and also larger intervals between trips to a larger garbage container.
[0046] The lower container portion 40 also has a pouring spout 58 for pouring water 24 that has accumulated in the lower container portion 40, after having dripped from the wet coffee grounds in the upper container portion 30. The pouring spout 58 extends outwardly and upwardly from a portion of the peripheral walls 42, 44, 46, 48.
Preferably, there is only one pouring spout 58 disposed on one side of the lower container portion 40, and extending outwardly and upwardly from the front end wall 46, as that is all that is necessary; however, there may be two pouring spouts, or even more than two pouring spouts, if desired.
- 8 -[0047] There is also a pouring wall portion 60 that slopes downwardly and inwardly to the floor 50 of the lower container portion 40. In the first preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the pouring wall portion 60 of the lower container portion 40 terminates at its upper end at the pouring spout 58, and further, as can be readily seen in the figures, the pouring spout 58 is sloped at substantially the same angle as the pouring wall portion 60, so as to form a generally flat pouring surface 62. It should be understood, that the pouring surface defined by the pouring spout 58 and the pouring wall portion 60 does not need to be substantially flat. It may be slightly concave or convex; however a concave pouring surface will permit water to pool on itself, and a convex pouring surface will permit water to pool at the vertex 70 of the pouring surface and the floor 50 of the lower container portion 40.
[0048] In the first preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the pouring wall portion 60 is sloped past the center of the floor 50 of the lower container portion 40, and is disposed at an angle of about seventy (70) degrees with respect to the vertical central axis -A".
This angle is known as the -easy pour angle", and is highly advantageous over the conventional pour angle of approximately ninety (90) degrees of a conventional bucket or pail. Alternatively, the angle between the pouring surface 62 of the pouring wall portion 60 and the vertical central axis "A" may be anywhere from about ten (10) degrees to about fifty (50) degrees, thereby resulting in an "easy pour angle" of about eighty (80) degrees to about forty (40) degrees. It has been found that an "easy pour angle" of approximately forty-five (45) degrees works well.
[0049] As can be readily seen in the figures, the pouring spout 58 meets the peripheral walls 42,44,46,48 of the lower container portion40 at a vertex 70 for receiving the edge of a sink therein. In this manner, when the lower container portion 40 is being emptied of water 24, the lower container portion 40 is supported at the vertex 70 by the edge of a sink (not specifically shown), typically on the edge of the counter, and the lower container portion 40 is tilted until the pouring surface of the lower container portion 40 is at or slightly past horizontal.
[0050] The first preferred embodiment container 20 of the present invention, further comprises a recessed handle portion 55 integrated into the widened base 54.
This recessed handle portion 55 is shaped and dimension for ready grasping by a person's hand, and is included to facilitate grasping for the purpose of pouring water 24 from the lower container portion 40. Upon grasping of the recessed handle portion 55, the lower container portion 40 can be tilted for ready pouring of water 24 from the lower container portion 40 via the pouring spout 58.
[0048] In the first preferred embodiment, as illustrated, the pouring wall portion 60 is sloped past the center of the floor 50 of the lower container portion 40, and is disposed at an angle of about seventy (70) degrees with respect to the vertical central axis -A".
This angle is known as the -easy pour angle", and is highly advantageous over the conventional pour angle of approximately ninety (90) degrees of a conventional bucket or pail. Alternatively, the angle between the pouring surface 62 of the pouring wall portion 60 and the vertical central axis "A" may be anywhere from about ten (10) degrees to about fifty (50) degrees, thereby resulting in an "easy pour angle" of about eighty (80) degrees to about forty (40) degrees. It has been found that an "easy pour angle" of approximately forty-five (45) degrees works well.
[0049] As can be readily seen in the figures, the pouring spout 58 meets the peripheral walls 42,44,46,48 of the lower container portion40 at a vertex 70 for receiving the edge of a sink therein. In this manner, when the lower container portion 40 is being emptied of water 24, the lower container portion 40 is supported at the vertex 70 by the edge of a sink (not specifically shown), typically on the edge of the counter, and the lower container portion 40 is tilted until the pouring surface of the lower container portion 40 is at or slightly past horizontal.
[0050] The first preferred embodiment container 20 of the present invention, further comprises a recessed handle portion 55 integrated into the widened base 54.
This recessed handle portion 55 is shaped and dimension for ready grasping by a person's hand, and is included to facilitate grasping for the purpose of pouring water 24 from the lower container portion 40. Upon grasping of the recessed handle portion 55, the lower container portion 40 can be tilted for ready pouring of water 24 from the lower container portion 40 via the pouring spout 58.
- 9 -[0051] Inthe firstprefen-ed embodiment, the filter means comprises and upper container portion 30 that is made from a suitable plastic material, for receiving wet used coffee grounds 22 therein. The upper container portion 30 is received and retained in removable and replaceable relations in the lower container portion 40. As can be readily seen in the figures, at least a portion of the floor of the upper container portion 30 is sloped, so as to accommodate the sloped pouring wall portion 60 of the lower container portion 40. The sloped floor 32 of the upper container portion 30 also has substantially horizontal portions 34. In the first preferred embodiment of the present invention, the upper container portion 30 has three substantially horizontal portions 34. Any other number of substantially horizontal portions 34 may be employed in the floor of the upper container portion 30, as desired or required. Further, the substantially horizontal portions 34 allow for ease of manufacturing.
[0052] The upper container portion 30 has a plurality of apertures 36 therein, for permitting water 24 from the wet used coffee grounds 22 to pass into the lower container portion 40, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into said lower container portion, thus substantially separating the water 24 from the wet used coffee grounds 22. Preferably, the plurality of apertures 36 in the upper container portion 30 are disposed in the substantially horizontal portions 34 of the floor 32.
Accordingly, the water 24 in the coffee grounds retained by the upper container portion 30 can readily drip directly through the plurality of apertures 36 and into the lower container portion 40.
[0053] The upper container portion 30 further comprises a central baffle portion 37 generally centrally disposed within the upper container portion 30. The central baffle portion 37 has a top edge 38, and further comprising indicia 39 disposed on the top edge 38 of the central baffle portion 37. One purpose of the central baffle portion 37 is to provide a readily readable indicator for indicating the maximum "fill level" of the upper container portion 30. Once this maximum "fill level" is reached by the wet used coffee grounds 22, the upper container portion 30 is to be emptied.
This manner of indicating a "fill level" is much superior to having indicia molded into or imprinted onto one of the walls of the upper container portion 30, as it is much easier to see. Another purpose of the central baffle portion 37 is to preclude the damp coffee grounds from accidentally pouring out of the upper container portion 30 when water is being emptied from the lower container portion 40 when the container 20 is tilted to or past the "easy pour angle".
[0052] The upper container portion 30 has a plurality of apertures 36 therein, for permitting water 24 from the wet used coffee grounds 22 to pass into the lower container portion 40, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into said lower container portion, thus substantially separating the water 24 from the wet used coffee grounds 22. Preferably, the plurality of apertures 36 in the upper container portion 30 are disposed in the substantially horizontal portions 34 of the floor 32.
Accordingly, the water 24 in the coffee grounds retained by the upper container portion 30 can readily drip directly through the plurality of apertures 36 and into the lower container portion 40.
[0053] The upper container portion 30 further comprises a central baffle portion 37 generally centrally disposed within the upper container portion 30. The central baffle portion 37 has a top edge 38, and further comprising indicia 39 disposed on the top edge 38 of the central baffle portion 37. One purpose of the central baffle portion 37 is to provide a readily readable indicator for indicating the maximum "fill level" of the upper container portion 30. Once this maximum "fill level" is reached by the wet used coffee grounds 22, the upper container portion 30 is to be emptied.
This manner of indicating a "fill level" is much superior to having indicia molded into or imprinted onto one of the walls of the upper container portion 30, as it is much easier to see. Another purpose of the central baffle portion 37 is to preclude the damp coffee grounds from accidentally pouring out of the upper container portion 30 when water is being emptied from the lower container portion 40 when the container 20 is tilted to or past the "easy pour angle".
- 10 -[0054] The lower container portion 40 is shaped and dimensioned to receive the upper container portion 30 therein, while also being able to receive and retain the predetermined amount of water 24 that would drip from the wet used coffee grounds 22 retained by the upper container portion 30.
[0055] As can be best seen in Figures 9 and 10, the upper container portion 30 also "snaps" in place into the lower container portion 40. There is a deformable portion 80 on one of the lower container portion 40 and the upper container portion 30 to provide an interference fit between the lower container portion 40 and the upper container portion 30, to thereby preclude unintentional removal of the upper container portion 30 from the lower container portion 40. More specifically, the deformable portion 80 comprises a downwardly depending lip 80 on the upper container portion 30 that has a raised area 82 that fits into a co-operating detent 84 in the lower container portion 40.
[0056] In use, once the upper container portion 30 is filled with used coffee grounds to the level of the top edge 38 of the central baffle portion 37, the container 20 is lifted to a sink or moved to some sort of drain, and the container 20 is tilted until the "easy pour angle" is reached or passed, at which point the all water in the lower container portion 40 pours from the lower container portion 40 (see Figure 7). Subsequently, the damp coffee grounds are emptied from the upper container portion 30 by further rotating the container 20 past the "easy pour angle"
until the damp coffee grounds fall out of the upper container portion 30. In order to clean the container 30, the upper container portion 30 is removed from the lower container portion 40, by first pressing on, or in some manner moving the deformable portion 80, so that it no longer interferes with the removal of the upper container portion 30.
[0057] Reference will now be made to Figures 11 through 14, which show a second preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 220. The second preferred embodiment container 220 for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention is similar to the first preferred embodiment container 20 except that the upper container portion 230 is shaped slightly differently. The upper container portion 230 comprises a sloped pouring wall portion 260 that is sloped similarly to the pouring wall portion 260 of the lower container portion 240. Also, the upper container portion 230 does not have the substantially horizontal portions in the sloped pouring wall portion 260.
[0055] As can be best seen in Figures 9 and 10, the upper container portion 30 also "snaps" in place into the lower container portion 40. There is a deformable portion 80 on one of the lower container portion 40 and the upper container portion 30 to provide an interference fit between the lower container portion 40 and the upper container portion 30, to thereby preclude unintentional removal of the upper container portion 30 from the lower container portion 40. More specifically, the deformable portion 80 comprises a downwardly depending lip 80 on the upper container portion 30 that has a raised area 82 that fits into a co-operating detent 84 in the lower container portion 40.
[0056] In use, once the upper container portion 30 is filled with used coffee grounds to the level of the top edge 38 of the central baffle portion 37, the container 20 is lifted to a sink or moved to some sort of drain, and the container 20 is tilted until the "easy pour angle" is reached or passed, at which point the all water in the lower container portion 40 pours from the lower container portion 40 (see Figure 7). Subsequently, the damp coffee grounds are emptied from the upper container portion 30 by further rotating the container 20 past the "easy pour angle"
until the damp coffee grounds fall out of the upper container portion 30. In order to clean the container 30, the upper container portion 30 is removed from the lower container portion 40, by first pressing on, or in some manner moving the deformable portion 80, so that it no longer interferes with the removal of the upper container portion 30.
[0057] Reference will now be made to Figures 11 through 14, which show a second preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 220. The second preferred embodiment container 220 for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention is similar to the first preferred embodiment container 20 except that the upper container portion 230 is shaped slightly differently. The upper container portion 230 comprises a sloped pouring wall portion 260 that is sloped similarly to the pouring wall portion 260 of the lower container portion 240. Also, the upper container portion 230 does not have the substantially horizontal portions in the sloped pouring wall portion 260.
- 11 -[0058] Further, the mouth 251 of the lower container portion 240 is preferably generally upwardly facing and has a peripheral lip portion 252 that extends generally outwardly from the mouth 251 of the lower container portion 240, and the upper container portion 230 includes an upper peripheral lip portion 233 disposed adjacent the top of the upper container portion means. The upper container portion 230 has a catch means for engaging the peripheral lip portion of the lower container portion 240. The catch means comprises a flange 235 extending downwardly from the upper peripheral lip portion 233, as can be best seen in Figure 14. The flange 235 engages the peripheral lip portion 252 of the lower container portion 240, to preclude unwanted separation of the upper container portion 230 from the lower container portion 240.
[0059] Also, in the second preferred embodiment, there is at least one crush rib 285, and more specifically four crush ribs 285 disposed on the upper container portion 230.
The four crush ribs 285 are disposed one on each rounded corner of the outer surface 231 of the upper container portion 230. The crush ribs 285 are for frictionally engaging the lower container portion 240, thus precluding the unwanted separation of the upper container portion 230 and the lower container portion 240.
[0060] It can also be seen that the pouring surface defined by the pouring spout 258 and the pouring wall portion 260 are slightly concave from side-to-side in order to centrally channel water in the pouring spout 258 as water is being poured from the lower container portion 240.
[0061] Reference will now be made to Figure 15, which shows a third preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 320.
The third preferred embodiment container 320 for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention is similar to the second preferred embodiment container 220 except that the filter means 330 further comprises a removable and replaceable filter 339 bag placed in secure engagement on the upper container portion 330 so as to fit therewithin. In use, when the filter bag 339 is nearly full of coffee grounds, it is removed from the upper container portion 330, and the filter bag 339 and the coffee grounds are disposed of together.
[0062] Reference will now be made to Figure 16, which shows a fourth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 420.
[0059] Also, in the second preferred embodiment, there is at least one crush rib 285, and more specifically four crush ribs 285 disposed on the upper container portion 230.
The four crush ribs 285 are disposed one on each rounded corner of the outer surface 231 of the upper container portion 230. The crush ribs 285 are for frictionally engaging the lower container portion 240, thus precluding the unwanted separation of the upper container portion 230 and the lower container portion 240.
[0060] It can also be seen that the pouring surface defined by the pouring spout 258 and the pouring wall portion 260 are slightly concave from side-to-side in order to centrally channel water in the pouring spout 258 as water is being poured from the lower container portion 240.
[0061] Reference will now be made to Figure 15, which shows a third preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 320.
The third preferred embodiment container 320 for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention is similar to the second preferred embodiment container 220 except that the filter means 330 further comprises a removable and replaceable filter 339 bag placed in secure engagement on the upper container portion 330 so as to fit therewithin. In use, when the filter bag 339 is nearly full of coffee grounds, it is removed from the upper container portion 330, and the filter bag 339 and the coffee grounds are disposed of together.
[0062] Reference will now be made to Figure 16, which shows a fourth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 420.
- 12 -The fourth preferred embodiment container 420 for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention is similar to the third preferred embodiment container 320 except that the filter means 430 comprises a removable and replaceable filter bag 430 placed in secure engagement over the mouth 451 and the peripheral lip portion 452 of the lower container portion 440. In use, when the filter bag 430 is nearly full of coffee grounds, it is removed from the lower container portion 440, and the filter bag 430 and the coffee grounds are disposed of together.
[0063] Reference will now be made to Figure 17, which shows a fifth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 520. The fifth preferred embodiment container 520 for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention is similar to the second preferred embodiment container 220 except that the filter means comprises a removable and replaceable filter basket 530 placed in secure engagement over the mouth 551, the peripheral lip portion 552 of the lower container portion 540. In use, when the filter bag 530 is nearly full of coffee grounds, it is removed from the lower container portion 540, and the coffee grounds are dumped from the filter basket 530.
[0064] As can be understood from the above description and from the accompanying drawings, the present invention provides a container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, wherein the subsequent disposal of the coffee grounds and water is easier than with prior art containers meant for the same purpose, wherein the subsequent disposal of the coffee grounds and water can be performed without separating one part of the container from another part of the container, wherein the articles of clothing, typically pants and a shirt, worn by the person who is emptying the wet used coffee grounds, are less likely to become soiled and stained by the wet used coffee grounds, wherein the container is easy to clean, and which container increases the efficiency of disposal of the separated coffee grounds, all of which features are unknown in the prior art.
[0065] Other advantages of the container according to the present invention is that since it is shorter than a conventional tall pail, it can be stacked one on top of another or individually placed on a shelf for storage; it is easier to handle and dump into a garbage container, thus minimizing the chance that coffee grounds are spilled and the users clothes won't become soiled; it is easier for a shorter person to carry, as their elbows do not need to be bent to carry it; and a greater number of containers are
[0063] Reference will now be made to Figure 17, which shows a fifth preferred embodiment of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention, as indicated by general reference numeral 520. The fifth preferred embodiment container 520 for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds according to the present invention is similar to the second preferred embodiment container 220 except that the filter means comprises a removable and replaceable filter basket 530 placed in secure engagement over the mouth 551, the peripheral lip portion 552 of the lower container portion 540. In use, when the filter bag 530 is nearly full of coffee grounds, it is removed from the lower container portion 540, and the coffee grounds are dumped from the filter basket 530.
[0064] As can be understood from the above description and from the accompanying drawings, the present invention provides a container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds therein, which container permits the water to be substantially drained from the used wet coffee grounds so as to collect separately, wherein the subsequent disposal of the coffee grounds and water is easier than with prior art containers meant for the same purpose, wherein the subsequent disposal of the coffee grounds and water can be performed without separating one part of the container from another part of the container, wherein the articles of clothing, typically pants and a shirt, worn by the person who is emptying the wet used coffee grounds, are less likely to become soiled and stained by the wet used coffee grounds, wherein the container is easy to clean, and which container increases the efficiency of disposal of the separated coffee grounds, all of which features are unknown in the prior art.
[0065] Other advantages of the container according to the present invention is that since it is shorter than a conventional tall pail, it can be stacked one on top of another or individually placed on a shelf for storage; it is easier to handle and dump into a garbage container, thus minimizing the chance that coffee grounds are spilled and the users clothes won't become soiled; it is easier for a shorter person to carry, as their elbows do not need to be bent to carry it; and a greater number of containers are
- 13 -kept in inventory, so that if one container is lost or damaged, there is less impact to the overall operation of using the containers.
[0066] Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention and such variations are considered to be within the scope of those principles. Further, other modifications and alterations in the design and manufacture of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds may be used without departing from the invention. The scope of the accompanying claims is not to be limited thereby, but only by a purposive construction of the claims as required by law.
[0066] Other variations of the above principles will be apparent to those who are knowledgeable in the field of the invention and such variations are considered to be within the scope of those principles. Further, other modifications and alterations in the design and manufacture of the container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds may be used without departing from the invention. The scope of the accompanying claims is not to be limited thereby, but only by a purposive construction of the claims as required by law.
- 14-!
Claims (27)
1. A container assembly for receiving wet coffee grounds, said assembly comprising:
a first container portion and a second container portion, said second container portion being removably mountable within said first container portion;
said first container portion having a floor and a peripheral wall standing upwardly from said floor, said first container portion defining a chamber in which to collect liquid from the wet coffee grounds;
said peripheral wall having a mouth and an upper peripheral lip extending about said mouth;
said peripheral wall having a pouring spout defined in a portion thereof, said pouring spout being lower than said upper peripheral lip;
said second container portion having a filter by which water from wet coffee grounds is permitted to drain into the chamber of the first container portion, said filter of said second container portion being spaced upwardly from said floor of said first container portion when said second container portion is mounted to said first container portion;
said first container portion having a bottom edge portion, said bottom edge portion sized to seat over said upper peripheral lip, whereby said container assembly is stackable with other such container assemblies of the same type; and said container assembly being tipable to pour off liquid through said spout of said first container portion without removing said second container portion from said first container portion.
a first container portion and a second container portion, said second container portion being removably mountable within said first container portion;
said first container portion having a floor and a peripheral wall standing upwardly from said floor, said first container portion defining a chamber in which to collect liquid from the wet coffee grounds;
said peripheral wall having a mouth and an upper peripheral lip extending about said mouth;
said peripheral wall having a pouring spout defined in a portion thereof, said pouring spout being lower than said upper peripheral lip;
said second container portion having a filter by which water from wet coffee grounds is permitted to drain into the chamber of the first container portion, said filter of said second container portion being spaced upwardly from said floor of said first container portion when said second container portion is mounted to said first container portion;
said first container portion having a bottom edge portion, said bottom edge portion sized to seat over said upper peripheral lip, whereby said container assembly is stackable with other such container assemblies of the same type; and said container assembly being tipable to pour off liquid through said spout of said first container portion without removing said second container portion from said first container portion.
2. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein said first container portion has a pouring wall portion of said floor that slopes downwardly and inwardly from said pouring spout.
3. The container assembly of claim 2, wherein said pouring spout extends outwardly and upwardly from said pouring wall portion.
4. The container assembly of any one of claims 2 and 3 wherein said pouring wall portion of said first container portion has an upper end; and said upper end terminates at said pouring spout.
5. The container assembly of any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein said pouring spout is sloped at substantially the same angle as said pouring wall portion.
6. The container assembly of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein said pouring wall portion is sloped past the center of said floor of said lower container portion.
7. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein said pouring spout meets said peripheral wall of said first container portion at a vertex said vertex defining an accommodation in which to receive an edge of a sink.
8. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein said filter means comprises an upper container portion having a plurality of apertures therein.
9. The container assembly of claim 8, wherein said upper container portion comprises a sloped wall portion that is sloped similarly to said pouring wall portion of said lower container portion.
10. The container assembly of claim 9, wherein said sloped floor of said upper container portion also has substantially horizontal portions.
11. The container assembly of claim 10, wherein said portion of said plurality of apertures in said upper container portion are disposed in said substantially horizontal portions of said floor.
12. The container assembly of any one of claims 2 to 6 wherein said pouring wall portion has a termination at said peripheral wall at said spout, and said peripheral wall extends downwardly of said termination to said bottom edge portion thereof.
13. The container assembly of any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein said filter includes a filter bag.
14. The container assembly of any one of claims 1 to 13 wherein said filter includes a filter basket.
15. The container assembly of any one of claims 1 to 14 wherein said second container portion has at least one crush rib disposed thereon, said crush rib being operable frictionally to engage said first container portion.
16. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein said second container portion has a baffle portion therein.
17. The container assembly of claim 16, wherein said baffle portion has a top edge, and has indicia disposed on said top edge of said baffle portion.
18. The container assembly of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein said bottom edge of said first container portion has a base portion that extends more widely than said peripheral wall.
19. The container assembly of claim 18, wherein said base portion bottom edge extends downwardly of said peripheral wall.
20. The container assembly of claim 19, wherein said downwardly extending bottom edge portion of said widened base is shaped and dimensioned to fit over the mouth of said first container portion.
21. The container assembly of claim 1, wherein the angle between said pouring surface of said pouring wall portion and said vertical central axis "A" is in the range of about ten degrees to about fifty degrees, yielding a pouring angle in the range of about eighty degrees to about forty degrees.
22. The container assembly of any one of claims 1 to 21 wherein said second container portion has an upper peripheral margin, said upper peripheral margin of said second container portion having a downwardly extending flange that matingly engages said upper peripheral lip of said first container portion.
23. The container assembly of any one of claims 1 to 22 wherein said peripheral wall of said first portion includes a first end wall and an opposed second end wall; a first side wall and an opposed second side wall, such that said peripheral wall has a generally rectangular form; said spout is located in said first end wall; and said second end wall has a handle formed therein.
24. A container for draining wet used coffee grounds, said container comprising:
a first container portion having a floor and peripheral walls extending upwardly from said floor and terminating in a mouth, said floor and peripheral walls defining a chamber in which to retain liquid;
a second container portion, said second container portion being removably mounted on said first container portion, said second container portion including a filter in which to receive wet used coffee grounds, said filter being operable to permit liquid from said wet used coffee grounds to pass into said first container portion;
said mouth of said first container portion having a peripheral lip portion that extends generally outwardly from said mouth of said first container portion; and, said filter has a catch, said catch being engagable with said peripheral lip portion of said first container portion.
a first container portion having a floor and peripheral walls extending upwardly from said floor and terminating in a mouth, said floor and peripheral walls defining a chamber in which to retain liquid;
a second container portion, said second container portion being removably mounted on said first container portion, said second container portion including a filter in which to receive wet used coffee grounds, said filter being operable to permit liquid from said wet used coffee grounds to pass into said first container portion;
said mouth of said first container portion having a peripheral lip portion that extends generally outwardly from said mouth of said first container portion; and, said filter has a catch, said catch being engagable with said peripheral lip portion of said first container portion.
25. A container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds, and for permitting water to drain from the wet used coffee grounds, and for subsequent separate disposal of the water and wet used coffee grounds, said container comprising:
a lower container portion having a floor and peripheral walls extending upwardly from said floor and terminating in a mouth, for receiving and retaining liquid therein;
a filter means operatively mounted on said lower container portion for receiving wet used coffee grounds therein, for permitting water from said wet used coffee grounds to pass into said lower container portion, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into said lower container portion, thus substantially separating said water from said wet used coffee grounds;
and, wherein said filter means further comprises a baffle portion.
a lower container portion having a floor and peripheral walls extending upwardly from said floor and terminating in a mouth, for receiving and retaining liquid therein;
a filter means operatively mounted on said lower container portion for receiving wet used coffee grounds therein, for permitting water from said wet used coffee grounds to pass into said lower container portion, and precluding coffee grounds from passing into said lower container portion, thus substantially separating said water from said wet used coffee grounds;
and, wherein said filter means further comprises a baffle portion.
26. The container of claim 25, wherein said baffle portion is generally centrally disposed within the upper container portion.
27. The container of claim 26, wherein said baffle portion has a top edge, and further comprising indicia disposed on said top edge of said baffle portion.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US87040706P | 2006-12-17 | 2006-12-17 | |
| US60/870,407 | 2006-12-17 |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2613472A1 CA2613472A1 (en) | 2008-06-17 |
| CA2613472C true CA2613472C (en) | 2016-02-23 |
Family
ID=39537646
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2613472A Active CA2613472C (en) | 2006-12-17 | 2007-12-17 | Container for receiving and retaining wet used coffee grounds |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2613472C (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP4437914A1 (en) * | 2023-03-29 | 2024-10-02 | Seb S.A. | Container for collecting coffee grounds and coffee machine comprising such a container |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2502987A (en) * | 2012-06-11 | 2013-12-18 | William David Spurr | Container for wet used tea bags including liquid compartment |
-
2007
- 2007-12-17 CA CA2613472A patent/CA2613472C/en active Active
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP4437914A1 (en) * | 2023-03-29 | 2024-10-02 | Seb S.A. | Container for collecting coffee grounds and coffee machine comprising such a container |
| FR3147084A1 (en) * | 2023-03-29 | 2024-10-04 | Seb S.A. | Coffee grounds collection container and coffee machine comprising such a container |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2613472A1 (en) | 2008-06-17 |
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