CN101103877A - Lighting means for drinking and/or eating - Google Patents

Abstract

According to various aspects, exemplary embodiments of lighting tools for drinking and/or eating and related methods are provided. In various embodiments, the tool for drinking and/or eating generally includes at least one tubular object having at least one internal fluid flow channel passing therethrough, wherein a fluid can be received and transferred through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. At least one power source has at least one portion located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel, so that the fluid can be generally received and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel around and through the at least one portion of the at least one power source position in the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The tool also includes at least one light source, which is at least partially located in the at least one tubular object and powered by the at least one power source.

Description

Lighting tools for drinking and/or eating

Cross References to Related Applications

This application is a continuation-in-part of granted US Patent Application Serial No. 10/851,510, filed May 21,2004.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 10/961,364, filed October 8, 2004, which asserts U.S. Patent Application No. 60/510,778, filed October 10, 2003 Priority of U.S. Provisional Application No.

This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 11/442,625, filed May 26, 2006, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 11/442,625, filed June 25, 2003 A continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. , now U.S. Patent No. 7,052,154, issued May 30, 2006.

The disclosures of the aforementioned applications are incorporated herein by reference.

technical field

The present disclosure relates generally to implements for use in connection with drinking or eating, and more particularly to lighting implements for use in consuming beverages and/or food.

Background technique

The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

Eating and drinking are often associated with entertainment and enjoyment. For example, adults and children may consume beverages and/or eat frozen treats on sticks at parties, picnics, outings, and other recreational activities. Therefore, it is desirable to increase the enjoyment associated with eating and drinking.

Contents of the invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a tool for use in drinking and/or eating that associates eating and drinking with entertainment and fun, increasing the pleasure associated with eating and drinking.

To achieve the above objects, in various embodiments, implements for drinking and/or eating generally include at least one tube having at least one internal fluid flow passage therethrough, wherein fluid can be received and passing through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. At least one power source has at least one portion located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can be drawn substantially around and through the at least one portion of the at least one power source location in the at least one internal fluid flow channel Contained and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The tool also includes at least one light source located at least partially within the at least one tube and powered by the at least one power source.

In other exemplary embodiments, an implement for use in connection with drinking and/or eating generally includes first and second tubes. The first tubular has at least one internal fluid flow channel therethrough, wherein fluid can be received and communicated through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The second tubular has at least one interior lumen therein. At least a portion of the second tubular is located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can generally surround and pass through the at least a portion of the second tubular in the at least one internal fluid flow channel is received and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. At least one light source is positioned at least partially within the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular. At least one housing is configured to house at least one power supply therein for powering the at least one light source. At least a portion of the at least one housing is located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can be contained substantially around and through the at least a portion of the at least one housing in the at least one internal fluid flow channel and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel.

Additional exemplary embodiments of implements for use in connection with drinking and/or eating generally include first and second tubes. The first tubular has at least one internal fluid flow channel therethrough, wherein fluid can be received and communicated through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The second tubular has at least one interior lumen therein. The second tube is located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can be contained and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel generally around and through the second tube in the at least one internal fluid flow channel. At least one internal fluid flow channel. At least one light source is within the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular. At least one housing is configured to house at least one power supply therein for powering the at least one light source. The at least one housing is coupled to the second tubular such that a junction between the at least one housing and the second tubular is substantially airtight. The at least one housing is located in the at least one interior fluid flow channel such that fluid can be contained and drawn through the at least one interior generally around and through the at least one housing in the at least one interior fluid flow channel. Fluid flow channels. At least one conductive lead extends from the at least one light source through at least a portion of the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular to the at least one housing for electrically connecting the at least one light source to the The at least one power supply in at least one housing.

In a further exemplary embodiment, a implement for use in connection with drinking and/or eating generally comprises at least one light source and at least one tube having at least one Internal fluid flow channels, wherein fluid can be received and communicated through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. At least one housing is rotatably mounted to the tubular for rotation within the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The at least one housing includes at least one vane extending into the at least one internal fluid flow channel and configured such that at least a portion of fluid contained in and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel contacts the at least one internal fluid flow channel. a blade to cause the at least one housing to rotate. The tool also includes at least one generator for generating electrical power for operating the at least one light source. The at least one generator includes at least one stator in the at least one housing, and at least one rotor in the at least one stator. The at least one rotor is coupled to the at least one housing for common rotation therewith.

Further aspects and features of the disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. Additionally, any one or more aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented individually or in combination with any one or more of the other aspects of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

Description of drawings

The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure in any way.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating, according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figure 2A is a longitudinal sectional view of a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating according to another exemplary embodiment;

Figure 2B is a view of the tool shown in Figure 2A taken along line 2B of Figure 2A;

Figure 3A is a longitudinal sectional view of a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating according to another exemplary embodiment;

Figure 3B is a view of the tool shown in Figure 3A taken along line 3B of Figure 3A;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating according to another exemplary embodiment;

Figure 5 is a perspective view of a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating according to another exemplary embodiment;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of a drinking straw in combination with a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating according to another exemplary embodiment;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating according to another exemplary embodiment;

Figure 8 is a perspective view of a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating according to another exemplary embodiment;

Figure 9 is an exploded perspective view of a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating according to another exemplary embodiment;

Figure 10 is an end perspective view of the tool shown in Figure 9 after the components of the tool have been assembled; and

Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of a tool for use in connection with drinking and/or eating according to another exemplary embodiment.

Detailed ways

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, application, or use. The various configurations or embodiments in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

In various embodiments, implements for drinking and/or eating generally include at least one tube having at least one internal fluid flow passage therethrough, wherein fluid can be received and passed through the at least one internal fluid passage. Fluid flow channels. At least one power source has at least a portion located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can be received and drawn through substantially around and through a portion of the at least one power source located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel The at least one internal fluid flow channel. The tool also includes at least one light source located at least partially within the at least one tube and powered by the at least one power source.

In any one or more of these various embodiments, one or more of the following features may also be included. For example, there may be at least one housing for at least one power source positioned in said at least one internal fluid flow channel. The at least one light source may be located in the at least one housing such that fluid passing through the at least one light source in the at least one housing may be contained and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel.

The at least one tube may include a surface defining the at least one internal fluid flow channel, and the tool may further include one or more spokes attaching the at least one housing to a surface defining the at least one inner fluid flow channel. The tubular surface of the inner fluid flow channel such that the at least one shell is spaced apart from the tubular surface bounding the at least one inner fluid flow channel. The one or more spokes may be configured such that the at least one housing is positioned generally in the center of the at least one inner fluid flow channel along a longitudinal central axis of the at least one inner fluid flow channel. Or, for example, the at least one tube may comprise a surface defining the at least one internal fluid flow channel, and the at least one housing may be attached directly to the tubular surface defining the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that the The at least one housing is asymmetrically located within the at least one inner fluid flow channel.

The at least one power source may be located entirely within the at least one interior fluid flow channel such that fluid may be contained and drawn through the at least one interior fluid flow channel substantially around and through the at least one power source. The at least one tube may include at least one side wall in which one or more light sources are positioned.

The at least one tube includes interior and exterior surfaces defining one or more chambers in a sidewall of the at least one tube. A substance may be disposed in at least one of the one or more chambers, such as gel, light changing material, heat/cold gel, colored substance, fluorescent substance, glow-in-the-dark substance, combinations thereof At least one or more of them. At least one optical fiber may extend into at least one of the one or more chambers such that light from at least one LED is transmitted through the at least one optical fiber.

The tool may include at least one housing rotatably mounted to the at least one tubular for rotation within the at least one internal fluid flow channel. For example, the at least one housing may include at least one vane extending into the at least one internal fluid flow channel and configured to contact at least a portion of fluid contained in and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The at least one vane causes the at least one housing to rotate. At least one light source and/or power supply may be disposed in and co-rotatable with the at least one housing. The tool may be configured such that rotation of the at least one housing generates electrical power for operating the at least one light source.

One or more light sources may be provided in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid may be contained and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel through the one or more light sources in the at least one internal fluid flow channel Fluid flow channels.

The at least one tube may comprise at least one light transmissive portion. The implement may be improved by positioning at least one light source to direct light to the at least one light-transmitting portion through which at least some of the light may be transmitted and visually perceived by a viewer. decorative appearance.

The tool may include one or more indicia highlighted by light from at least one light source. The one or more indicia can be highlighted by black light from at least one light source in response to black light. The tool may comprise one or more markings etched, integrally formed at an acute angle with respect to the direction of light emitted by the at least one light source, and/or printed. At least a portion of the at least one tube is responsive to black light such that it can be highlighted by black light from at least one light source.

At least one light source may be housed in at least one housing slidably retained within the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that at least a portion of fluid received and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel causes the at least one The housing and at least one light source housed therein are slidably movable within the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The at least one internal fluid flow channel may comprise first and second portions spaced apart from each other, at which portion the at least one internal fluid flow channel is smaller in size. The at least one housing and the at least one light source housed therein may be slidably retained between the first and second portions within the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The tool may comprise electrical terminals external to the at least one housing for electrical connection, the electrical terminals connecting the at least one light source when fluid in the at least one internal fluid flow channel electrically connects the terminals to each other. to the at least one power supply.

In other exemplary embodiments, an implement for use in connection with drinking and/or eating generally includes first and second tubes. The first tubular has at least one internal fluid flow channel therethrough, wherein fluid can be received and communicated through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The second tubular has at least one interior lumen therein. At least a portion of a second tubular is located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can be contained and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel generally around and through at least a portion of the second tubular in the at least one internal fluid flow channel. said at least one internal fluid flow channel. At least one light source is positioned at least partially within the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular. At least one housing is configured to house at least one power supply therein for powering the at least one light source. At least a portion of the at least one housing is located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can be contained and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel generally around and through at least a portion of the at least one housing in the at least one internal fluid flow channel. said at least one internal fluid flow channel.

In any one or more of the various embodiments, one or more of the following features may also be included. At least a portion of the at least one housing is attachable to the first tubular. For example, the at least one housing may include generally opposed end portions and generally opposed side portions. The end portion of the housing is attachable to the first tube, wherein the side portions of the housing are spaced apart from the first tube so that fluid can be contained and sucked through the gap separating the side portions of the housing from the first tube. separation distance. The at least one housing is attachable to the open end of the second tubular such that the junction between the at least one housing and the open end of the second tubular is substantially sealed.

The at least one housing may be located entirely within the at least one internal fluid flow channel of the first tubular. The second tubular may be located entirely within the at least one internal fluid flow channel of the first tubular. The at least one light source may be located entirely within the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular . The tool may further comprise at least one conductive lead extending from the at least one light source through at least a portion of the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular to the at least one housing for connecting the at least one A light source is electrically connected to at least one power source in the at least one housing. The tool can include at least one substrate coupled to the at least one conductive lead, and at least a portion of the substrate can be located within the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular. The tool may also include at least one ribbon cable at least partially located within at least one interior cavity of the second barrel, wherein the at least one light source comprises at least one LED mounted to the at least one ribbon cable, and wherein the At least a portion of the conductive lead is mounted to the at least one ribbon cable. Depending on the particular application, the tool may be operatively connected to a drinking straw.

Additional exemplary embodiments of implements for use in connection with drinking and/or eating generally include first and second tubes. The first tubular has at least one internal fluid flow channel therethrough, wherein fluid can be received and communicated through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The second tubular has at least one interior lumen therein. The second tubular is located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can be contained and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow generally around and through the second tubular in the at least one internal fluid flow channel aisle. At least one light source is within the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular. At least one housing is configured to house at least one power supply therein for powering the at least one light source. The at least one housing is coupled to the second tubular such that a connection between the at least one housing and the second tubular is substantially airtight. The at least one housing is located in the at least one inner fluid flow channel such that fluid can be contained and drawn through the at least one inner fluid flow generally around and through the at least one housing in the at least one inner fluid flow channel aisle. at least one conductive lead extending from the at least one light source through at least a portion of the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular to the at least one housing for electrically connecting the at least one light source into the at least one housing at least one power supply.

In a further exemplary embodiment, a implement for use in connection with drinking and/or eating generally comprises at least one light source and at least one tube having at least one Internal fluid flow channels, wherein fluid can be received and communicated through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. At least one housing is rotatably mounted to the tubular for rotation within the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The at least one housing includes at least one vane extending into the at least one internal fluid flow channel and configured such that at least a portion of fluid contained in and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel contacts the at least one internal fluid flow channel. blades to cause the at least one housing to rotate. The tool also includes at least one generator for generating electrical power for operating the at least one light source. The at least one generator includes at least one stator in the at least one housing, and at least one rotor in the at least one stator. The at least one rotor is coupled to the at least one housing for common rotation therewith.

In some of these embodiments, one or more light sources may be located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid may be passed through the one or more light sources in the at least one internal fluid flow channel Contained and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. Additionally, at least one rim may be rotatably mounted to the at least one tube, and at least one spoke may be used to attach the at least one housing to the at least one rim for common rotation therewith.

Referring now to FIG. 1 , there is shown an exemplary configuration of an implement 20 for use in connection with drinking and/or eating. As shown in FIG. 1 , tool 20 includes a tube 28 having a passageway 34 therethrough. The tube is made of, for example, plastic, and the tool 20 can be used, for example, as a drinking straw. At least a portion of the tube 28 is transparent and/or translucent.

The tube 28 may be at least partially rigid and/or at least partially flexible. For example, the corrugated portion 38 of the tube 28 is flexible, although other means of providing flexibility may be used. For example, at least a portion of the tube 28 may have a thickness and/or density that allows the tube to bend in this portion. The tubes 28 and/or channels 34 may vary in width. For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , the bottom 42 of the tube 28 is flared in shape. The width of the tube and channel can also vary with respect to each other, as further described below.

The housing 46 of the power supply 50 is located in the passage 34 such that fluid can be drawn through the housing 46 and the power supply 50 and through the passage 34 . For example, one or more spokes 54 may be used to attach the housing 46 to the lower end 58 of the tube. Thus, for example, a drink sucked by a user with tool 20 flows into tube 28 around spoke 54 . In another configuration, the housing 46 may be located asymmetrically within the channel 34, eg, attached directly to the tube 28, thereby reducing or eliminating any need for spokes. Housing 46 may be made of plastic and may be at least partially transparent and/or translucent. Housing 46 and tube 28 are preferably made of non-toxic materials that remain suitable for contact with consumer products when heated and/or frozen.

Tool 20 also includes one or more light sources 62 within barrel 28 powered by power supply 50 . Light source 62 may include, for example, one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, and/or electroluminescent wires. However, any type of suitable light source may be used. As shown in FIG. 1 , light source 62 includes an LED electrically connected to power source 50 , such as a battery or battery pack inside housing 46 . The power supply 50 may include an optional control chip 66 for providing blinking, strobing and/or other effects and may be operated using a switch 70 . Switch 70 may be push button activated, water activated, touch activated, twist activated, temperature activated, pressure activated, or activated using other means. Various known switches can be used. Exemplary switches include push button switches, motion responsive ball switches, temperature sensitive switches, magnetic switches, mechanical switches, electrical switches, toggle switch mechanisms, shuttle switches, manually operated switches, automatically operated switches, combinations thereof, and the like.

To use tool 20 , a user may activate switch 70 to turn on power source 50 and light source 62 . In one configuration in which the switch 70 is liquid activated, the switch 70 is activated when the user inserts the lower end 58 of the tool 20 into, for example, a beverage. The switch 70 can then be deactivated when the tool 20 is removed from the beverage. In another exemplary embodiment, the switch 70 may be a temperature sensitive switch that automatically activates when the user inserts the lower end 58 of the tool 20 into a liquid (e.g., a cold or hot beverage) that has a temperature that causes the temperature sensitive switch to automatically activate. start up. The switch 70 can then be deactivated subsequently when the implement 20 is removed from the cold beverage.

When light source 62 is activated, light may pass through housing 46 and tube 28 . Where the housing and/or tube are translucent, the light may cause the housing and/or tube to glow. It will be appreciated that, depending on the transparency and/or translucency of different portions of the tube 28 and/or housing 46 , various lighting effects may be produced in the tool 20 and/or in the liquid inserted into the tool 20 .

Another configuration of an implement for use in connection with drinking and/or eating is shown generally in FIGS. 2A and 2B by reference numeral 100 . The tool 100 includes a tubular 128 having a sidewall 130 and a passage 134 therethrough. The tube is made of, for example, plastic. Tool 100 may be used, for example, as a drinking straw, a stirring stick, and/or a stick for supporting ice cream or other consumables. At least a portion of the tube 128 is transparent and/or translucent. A substance 136 such as a transparent and/or translucent gel and/or liquid is sealed in one or more chambers 140 between an inner surface 144 and an outer surface 148 of the tubular sidewall 130 . Substance 136 may include known materials such as those used in gels in reusable ice packs, and may be colored, fluorescent, glow-in-the-dark, and/or the like. Substance 136 and tool 100 are preferably capable of being heated and/or frozen to an appropriate temperature.

The chamber 140 can be tapered and can be large enough to accommodate one or more light sources 156 at the lower end 152 of the tool 100 . Two LEDs 156 are shown in Figures 2A and 2B. In other configurations, chamber 140 may have a different shape. For example, tube sidewall 130 and cavity 140 may be shaped to form a themed or advertising-related display element as described further below.

Housing 160 of power supply 166 is located in channel 134 such that fluid may be drawn through housing 160 and through channel 134 . For example, one or more spokes 170 may be used to attach housing 160 to a base 174 located at lower end 152 of the tube for sealing chamber 140 and supporting light source 156 . Thus, for example, a drink sucked by a user with the tool 100 flows into the tube 128 around the circumference of the spokes 170 . In another configuration, the housing 160 may be located asymmetrically within the channel 134, eg, attached directly to the tubular inner surface 144, thereby reducing or eliminating the need for spokes.

Light source 156 is electrically connected to a power source 166 such as a battery or battery pack inside housing 160 . The power supply 166 may be operated using a switch 180 and may include an optional control chip 184 as previously described with respect to FIG. 1 .

Tool 100 may be frozen, for example, for use with cold beverages or when used as a support for frozen consumables. Alternatively, tool 100 may be heated, for example, with a hot beverage. Configurations providing other numbers and/or types of light sources are also contemplated. For example, light source 156 may include one or more LEDs, fiber optics and/or electroluminescent wires, electroluminescent sheets, combinations thereof, and the like. Additionally or alternatively, in one configuration, housing 160 may include LEDs or other light sources in the same or similar manner as described with respect to FIG. 1 .

Another configuration of an implement for use in connection with drinking and/or eating is shown generally in FIGS. 3A and 3B by reference numeral 200 . Tool 200 includes a tube 228 having a sidewall 230 and a passage 234 therethrough. Tube 228 is made of, for example, plastic. At least a portion of the tube 228 is transparent and/or translucent. One or more chambers 238 may be provided between the inner surface 244 and the outer surface 248 of the tubular sidewall 230. As shown in FIG. 3A, chamber 238 may be tapered. However, other shapes are possible, and the distance between the inner surface 244 and outer surface 248 can be varied to provide the desired tubular profile and chamber configuration. For example, the tube 228 and chamber 238 may be shaped to form a themed or advertising-related display element as described further below. As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B , chamber 238 is sufficient to accommodate one or more light sources 256 at lower end 252 of tool 200 . Four light sources 256, such as LEDs, are shown in Figures 3A and 3B. A plurality of optical fibers 260 are focused and aligned above each LED 256 relative to the focus of the LEDs 256 such that light from the LEDs 256 is transmitted through the optical fibers 260. Optical fibers 260 extend into chamber 238 and may be of various lengths. Configurations using electroluminescent wires in place of or in addition to optical fibers 260 are also contemplated.

The housing 268 of the power supply 272 is located in the channel 234 such that fluid can be drawn through the housing 268 and through the channel 234 . For example, one or more spokes 276 may be used to attach housing 268 to base 280 located at lower end 252 of the tube for sealing chamber 238 and supporting light source 256 . Thus, for example, a drink sucked by a user with tool 200 flows into tube 228 around spoke 276 . In another configuration, the housing 268 may be located asymmetrically within the channel 234, eg, attached directly to the tubular inner surface 244, thus eliminating the need for spokes.

Light source 256 is electrically connected to a power source 272 such as a battery or battery pack inside housing 268 . The power supply 272 is operable using a switch 282 and may include an optional control chip 284 as previously described with respect to FIG. 1 .

Another configuration of an implement for use in connection with drinking and/or eating is shown generally in FIG. 4 by reference numeral 300 . Tool 300 includes a tube 328 having a channel 334 therethrough. The tube 328 is made of, for example, plastic, and the tool 300 can be used, for example, as a drinking straw and/or a stirrer. At least a portion of the tube 328 is transparent and/or translucent.

An optional top 336 is secured to an upper end 338 of the tube 328 . Top 336 includes a plug 340 secured inside upper end 338 and a cap 342 secured to upper end 338 . In other configurations, a bung 340 or a cap 342 (or other means of attaching the top 336 to the tube end 338) may be used. Top 336 may be permanently attached to tube 328, or may be removable to allow tool 300 to also be used as a straw. Top 336 may include decoration 344 including, for example, text and/or other indicia. Top 336 may be partially or completely transparent, opaque, and/or translucent.

Housing 346 of power supply 348 is located in channel 334 such that (without top 336 ) fluid can be drawn through housing 346 and through channel 334 . For example, one or more spokes 352 may be used to attach the outer shell 346 to the lower end 356 of the tube. Thus, for example, a drink sucked by a user with tool 300 flows into tube 328 around spoke 352 . In another configuration, the housing 346 may be located asymmetrically within the channel 334, eg, attached directly to the tube 328, thus eliminating any need for spokes. Housing 346 may be made of plastic and may be at least partially transparent and/or translucent. The housing includes an elongated extension 360 , such as a clear plastic film, extending into the channel 334 .

Tool 300 also includes one or more light sources 364 within barrel 328 powered by power supply 348 . Light source 364 may include, for example, electroluminescent wires powered by power supply 348 via transformer 370 . Electroluminescent wires 364 extend into channel 334 via housing extension 360 . In other configurations, other or additional types of light sources may be included in extension portion 360 . For example, one or more LEDs may be spaced apart within extension 360 and electrically connected to power source 348 . Light source 364 and/or extension 360 may also be positioned in top 336 and/or trim 344 , preferably in a configuration such that top 336 is permanently affixed to tube 328 . Power supply 348 is operable using switch 382 and may include an optional control chip as previously described with respect to FIG. 1 .

To use tool 300 , a user may activate switch 382 to turn on power source 348 and light source 364 . When light source 364 is activated, light may pass through housing extension 360 , tube 328 and optional top 336 . Where the housing extension, tube and/or top is translucent, the light may cause the housing extension, tube and/or top to glow. In configurations that include liquid actuated switch 382, light source 364 is turned on when a user begins stirring a beverage, for example, using tool 300. It will be appreciated that, depending on the transparency and/or translucency of various portions of the tube 328, top 336, and/or housing extension 360, a liquid or other substance may be created in the tool 300 and/or at least part of the surrounding tool 300. Various lighting effects.

Another configuration of an implement for use in connection with drinking and/or eating is shown generally in FIG. 5 by reference numeral 400 . Tool 400 includes a tube 428 having a passage 434 therethrough. The tube 428 is made of, for example, plastic, and the tool 400 can be used, for example, as a drinking straw, a stirrer, and/or a support for marshmallows or frozen consumables or other consumables. At least a portion of the tube 428 is transparent and/or translucent.

As shown in FIG. 5 , the lower portion 440 (shown in phantom) of the tube 428 is flared in shape and includes a display element 444 . The display element 444 may be themed or advertising related, and may be made separately from the tube 428 . Display element 444 may be made of plastic and/or other non-toxic materials. To secure the display element 444 to the tube 428, the tube 428 may be inserted through the bore 450 of the display element. In other configurations, the display element may be attached to the outer surface 458 of the tube 428 , for example, by bonding the element to the lower portion 440 of the tube 428 (and/or any other portion). Embodiments in which all or part of the display element 444 is fabricated as part of the tube 428 are also contemplated. A display element may be formed, for example, by shaping one or more cavities and optionally filling the cavities with substances as previously described with respect to Figures 2A and 2B.

Housing 462 of power supply 466 is located in channel 434 such that fluid may be drawn through housing 462 and through channel 434 . For example, one or more spokes 470 may be used to attach the outer shell 462 to the lower end 474 of the tube. Thus, for example, a drink sucked by a user with tool 400 flows into tube 428 around spoke 470 . In another configuration, the housing 462 may be located asymmetrically within the channel 434, eg, attached directly to the tube 428, thus eliminating any need for spokes. Housing 462 may be made of plastic and may be at least partially transparent and/or translucent.

Tool 400 also includes one or more light sources 480 powered by power source 466 and/or display element 444 within tube 428 . Light source 480 may include, for example, one or more LEDs, fiber optics, electroluminescent wires, electroluminescent sheets, combinations thereof, or the like. As shown in FIG. 5, three LEDs 480 are electrically connected to a power source 466, such as a battery or battery pack inside housing 462. Electrical connections between the power source 466 and the light source 480 in or on the display element 444 may be established, for example, via the spokes 470 and/or the lower end 474 of the tube. The power supply 466 is operable using a switch 488 and may include an optional control chip as previously described with respect to FIG. 1 .

To use tool 400 , a user may activate switch 488 to turn on power source 466 and light source 480 . When light source 480 is activated, light may pass through housing 462 , tube 428 and/or display element 444 . It can be appreciated that, depending on the transparency and/or translucency of various portions of the tube 428, the housing 462, and/or the display element 444, multiple variations may be created in the tool 400 and/or a liquid or other substance surrounding at least a portion of the tool 400. A lighting effect.

A further embodiment combination according to the invention is generally indicated in FIG. 6 by the reference numeral 500 . In general, the tool can be configured as described herein and can be used with conventional drinking straws. For example, tool 504 similar to tool 400 is included in combination 500 . The straw 508 is positioned over the tube 528 of the tool 504 and can be pushed against the flared portion 536 of the tube 528 to provide a snug fit between the straw 508 and the tool 504 . In another configuration, straw 508 may be inserted into tube 528 . Additionally or alternatively, a straw 508 may be coupled to the tool 504 . Accordingly, tool 504 may be operatively connected to straw 508 such that when a user sucks on upper end 530 of the straw, liquid may be drawn through assembly 500 . In some configurations, tool 504 may be cleaned and/or reused with a different straw.

Another configuration of the tool is shown in FIG. 7 by reference numeral 600 . Tool 600 includes a tube 628 having a channel 634 therethrough. The tube 628 is made of, for example, plastic. Tool 600 can be used, for example, as a drinking straw and/or a stirrer. At least a portion of the tube 628 is transparent and/or translucent.

The housing 640 of the power supply 646 is located in the channel 634 such that fluid can be drawn through the housing 640 and through the channel 634 . The housing 640 may be attached with one or more spokes 650 to a rim 656 (shown in phantom) that is rotatable within the lower end 660 of the tube. Housing 640 may include blades 666 , or may be otherwise configured to rotate within channel 634 with rim 656 , for example, as a beverage sucked by a user with tool 600 passes housing 640 around spokes 650 . Housing 640 may be made of, for example, plastic and may be at least partially transparent and/or translucent.

Tool 600 includes one or more light sources 670 powered by power source 646 in barrel 628 . Light source 670 may include, for example, one or more LEDs, fiber optics, and/or electroluminescent wires. As shown in FIG. 7 , light source 670 includes an LED electrically connected to a power source 646 , such as a battery or battery pack inside housing 640 . Power supply 646 is operable using switch 680 and may include an optional control chip as previously described with respect to FIG. 1 .

To use tool 600 , a user may activate switch 680 to turn on power 646 and light source 670 . When light source 670 is activated, light may pass through housing 640 and tube 628 . Where the housing and/or tube are translucent, the light may cause the housing and/or tube to glow. It will be appreciated that, depending on the transparency and/or translucency of various portions of the tube 628 and/or housing 640 , various lighting effects may be produced in the tool 600 and/or the liquid or other substance surrounding at least a portion of the tool 600 .

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary tool 700 that implements one or more aspects of the present disclosure. As shown, the tool 700 includes a tube 728 having an internal fluid flow path or channel 734 therethrough. Tube 728 may be made of plastic or other suitable material. Tool 700 may be used, for example, as a drinking straw and/or a stirrer. At least a portion of the tube 728 may be transparent and/or translucent.

Housing 740 is located at least partially within channel 734 such that fluid may generally be drawn through channel 734 through at least a portion of housing 740 . In this particular embodiment, housing 740 is attached to rim 756 (shown in phantom) by spokes 750 . The rim 756 is rotatable within the lower end 760 of the tube 728 . Housing 740 may include blades 766 (or other suitable members) for facilitating rotation of housing 740 and rim 756 within channel 734 . For example, housing 740 may be caused to rotate when a beverage sucked by a user with tool 700 flows through housing 740 around spokes 750 and contacts blades 766 .

In this particular embodiment, rotation of housing 740 may also generate electrical current (eg, alternating current, direct current, combinations thereof, etc.) for powering one or more light sources 770 . For example, tool 700 may include at least one generator for generating electrical power to operate one or more light sources 700 . The generator may include a stator in housing 740 and a rotor in stator 746 . The rotor may be coupled to housing 740 for common rotation therewith. Thus, rotation of the housing 740 causes the rotor to rotate relative to the stator 746 , which in turn generates an electrical current that powers the light source 770 . Alternatively, the rotating housing 740 may drive a relatively small armature, which in turn generates the current that powers the light source 770 for illumination.

Light source 770 may include, for example, one or more LEDs, fiber optics, electroluminescent wires, electroluminescent sheets, combinations thereof, or the like. In certain preferred embodiments, the light source 770 comprises an LED, which typically requires significantly less power to operate than an incandescent light source.

To use tool 700, a user may simply insert lower end 760 of tool 700 into, for example, a beverage. The user may then begin sucking on the other end 761 of the tool to force liquid into the internal fluid flow channel 734 of the tube 728 . Liquid can flow around spokes 750 and then contact vanes 766 . Pressure on blades 766 created by contact with liquid may cause housing 740 to rotate. Rotating housing 740 in turn rotates the rotor relative to stator 746 , thereby generating electrical current that powers light source 770 .

9 and 10 illustrate another embodiment of a tool 800 for use in connection with drinking and/or eating. As shown in FIG. 9, the tool 800 includes an outer tube 828 having an inner fluid flow channel 834 therethrough. In one particular embodiment, the outer tubular 828 is configured such that the inner fluid flow channel 834 has a diameter of about one-half inch. Dimensions stated in this paragraph (as all dimensions stated herein) are examples only and may vary, for example, with a particular application.

Tool 800 also includes a housing or sleeve 840 . As shown in FIG. 10 , housing 840 may be positioned within interior fluid flow channel 834 . The end portions 841 and 843 of the housing can be joined or attached to the tube 828 in an exemplary manner that allows the liquid flowing in the internal fluid flow channel 834 of the tube 828 to also surround and pass through the side portions 845 and 847 of the housing. Flow (represented generally by arrow 849 in FIG. 10).

Tool 800 may also include one or more power sources and switching mechanisms 882 . Switching mechanism 882 may be used to switchably connect one or more light sources 870 ( FIG. 9 ) to one or more power sources in housing 840 . A variety of switch mechanisms may be used as switch 882, such as push button switches, dome push button switches, membrane switches, and the like.

With continued reference to FIG. 9 , the tool 800 also includes an inner straw or tube 851 and at least one light source 870 positionable within the inner straw 851 . In the particular embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9, the LED 870 and conductive leads 871 are surface mounted (e.g., soldered onto, etc.) to a flexible, lightweight ribbon cable 873, which in turn can be positioned within the inner straw 851 .

Alternatively, any suitable number of other light sources and conductive leads and/or other mounting methods are possible. For example, FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a tool 900 having an outer barrel 928, a housing 940, an inner barrel 951, and an LED 970. In this particular embodiment, however, tool 900 includes wiring 971 for connecting LED 970 to one or more power sources in housing 940.

Referring back to FIGS. 9 and 10 , the ribbon cable 873 (and LED 870 and conductive leads 871 above) can be positioned within the interior cavity or channel of the inner straw 851. For example, a flexible ribbon cable 873 can be positioned within the inner straw 851 such that the LEDs 870 are generally spaced from each other along the length of the inner straw 851. In addition, LED 870 can be electrically connected to one or more power sources (eg, batteries, etc.) with housing 840 via conductive leads 871.

After the ribbon cable 873 (and the LED 870 and conductive leads 871 above) are positioned in the inner straw 851, the inner straw 851 can be sealed. In some embodiments, the inner straw 851 may be hermetically sealed and/or substantially water-tight.

An exemplary assembly may include inserting a ribbon cable 873 through the open end of the inner straw 851 . At least a portion of the housing 840 (and in some embodiments one or more components housed therein) may also be housed in the open end of the inner straw 851 . The inner straw 851 may be bonded or attached (eg, adhesively bonded, chemically bonded, mechanically fastened, heat sealed, heat fused, etc.) to the housing 840 to seal the open end of the inner straw 851 . In certain embodiments, both ends of the inner tube 851 may be open, with each end in turn sealed by any suitable means (eg, adhesive bonding, chemical bonding, mechanical fastening, heat sealing, heat staking, etc.). In some embodiments, housing 840 (and one or more power supplies therein) may also be positioned at least partially within inner straw 851 .

The sealed unit (comprising LED 870, conductive leads 871, and ribbon cable 873 bonded to housing 840 (or portions thereof) and therein) can then be inserted into interior fluid flow channel 834 of outer straw 828. End portions 841 and 843 of housing 840 may be joined or attached (eg, adhesively bonded, glued, bonded, friction fit, etc.) to tube 828 . Accordingly, liquid drawn up through the inner fluid flow channel 834 of the outer tubular 828 may generally flow through the housing side portions 845 and 847 . The liquid can then flow substantially along the length of the exterior surface of the sealed inner straw 851 and components therein. That is, the liquid may generally flow in the spaced distance separating the outer surface of the inner straw 851 from the inner surface of the outer tube 828 .

Various embodiments shown and described herein include a power source, light source, and/or switch located generally at the base or bottom of the tool. In other embodiments, components (e.g., power supplies, light sources, switching mechanisms, etc.) etc.) may be positioned at suitable locations other than those shown in the figures. For example, other embodiments may include a power source, light source, and/or switch mechanism positioned approximately at the top of the tool, where the user's mouth is placed instead of (or in addition to) the bottom of the tool. As a further example, other embodiments may include one or more power sources, light sources, and/or switching mechanisms positioned approximately at a location generally between the top and bottom of the tool.

The embodiments illustrated in the figures generally show the fluid inlets/openings that allow fluid to enter the internal fluid flow channels near the bottom of the tool. Alternatively, other embodiments include one or more fluid inlets/openings at other suitable locations than those shown in the figures. For example, other embodiments may include fluid inlets/openings spaced above the bottom of the tool such that the fluid inlets/openings are positioned higher than one or more of the power supply, light source, and/or switching mechanism. As a further example, other embodiments may include fluid inlets/openings at more than one location, such as at the bottom and at one or more other locations spaced above the bottom. In other embodiments, the tool may include more than one internal fluid flow channel, such as two or more concentric fluid flow channels.

Additionally, certain embodiments of the tool include a tubular having a circular cross-section. However, other embodiments may include tubes having non-circular cross-sections (eg, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, oval, other polygonal shapes, etc.).

Certain embodiments may include a housing or sleeve in which one or more batteries (or other power sources) are housed. In these embodiments, the sleeve can be removed from the tool, for example, to replace the battery. Certain embodiments may also include rechargeable batteries. Other embodiments may include other power sources, including disposable batteries, solar cells, power sources, and the like.

Various embodiments may also include at least one power source spaced from or remote from the tool. In these embodiments, at least one remote power source (eg, a rechargeable battery pack, wall outlet, etc.) can provide power for operation of the light tool. The light source may in turn be electrically connected to at least one remote power source by a wire or cable (eg, an insulated flexible wire mated with a plug, etc.).

Certain embodiments may include two or more cells positioned side-by-side (as opposed to stacked or positioned on top of each other) in a side-by-side orientation. For example, one exemplary embodiment may include two watch batteries positioned side-by-side in a side-by-side orientation. With this orientation, the watch battery can be housed in a lower profile or thinner housing than an embodiment where the batteries are stacked on top of each other. Advantageously, thinner/lower profile housings can be positioned in straws or tubes that are smaller in diameter than those of certain embodiments with larger housings for batteries.

Various embodiments of the tools disclosed herein can be used in a variety of ways, including as a straw and/or stirrer in conjunction with drinking hot and/or cold beverages, as a straw for marshmallows, ice cream, frozen ice, candy, lollipops, or Sticks or handles for other consumer goods. Additionally, in some configurations, portions of the tool may be re-used. For example, various embodiments include replaceable removable power supplies. Embodiments of the implements disclosed herein may provide various lighting effects in the implement and/or also in a transparent or translucent food or beverage surrounding at least a portion of the implement. The tools disclosed herein can provide aesthetic, interesting, and/or eye-catching media for advertising, for example, through illuminated display elements, toppers, and/or signage.

Indicia such as text or logos may be provided on (eg, etched, engraved, screen printed, printed, integrally formed, etc.) a portion of any one or more of the tools disclosed herein. In these embodiments, the markings may be highlighted (eg, illuminated, backlit, etc.) by light from one or more light sources of the tool. In some embodiments, the illuminated means comprises a light-transmitting light having one or more indicia (e.g., printed indicia, screen-printed indicia, pad-printed indicia, indicia formed by fiber optics, integrally formed, etched, etc.). part. The one or more indicia may be highlighted by light from a light source (eg, illumination, backlighting, etc.). For example, the one or more indicia can be integrated (eg, etched, engraved, etc.) into the light-transmissive portion to a sufficient depth so as to alter the light emitted by the at least one light source. The one or more indicia may be integrally formed into the light transmissive portion at an acute angle relative to a direction of transmission of light emitted by the at least one light source through the light transmissive portion. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more markings are etched or engraved (e.g., with a cutting tool, knife, blade, laser, chemical etch, drill, etc.) into a light-transmissive material (e.g., plastic, etc.). Such etching can increase the light transmission of the etched mark and/or allow the mark to alter (eg, trap, refract, scatter, scatter, diffract, etc.) light traveling through the light-transmissive material. The etch marks can affect the way light interacts with the etch marks. For example, for relatively deeply engraved or etched marks, light may be caught in the edges of the mark and thus highlight the mark. The preferred angle and/or depth at which indicia may be formed into the light transmissive material may depend on the particular application. In an exemplary embodiment, indicia may be formed (eg, etched, engraved, etc.) into the light transmissive material at an acute angle of approximately +/- 45 degrees relative to the direction of light travel. Indicia can be etched into the exterior or outer surface of the light transmissive material. Additionally, or alternatively, indicia may be etched into the inner surface of the light transmissive material.

In any of the various embodiments disclosed herein, the implement may comprise a plurality of light-changing elements within the tube (e.g., suspended in a hot/cold gel or other suitable substance in the sidewall of the tube, etc.) Particles (eg, glitter, reflective particles, refracting particles, translucent particles, glassy prisms, colored particles, transparent particles, etc.). These particles receive and alter light from a light source to create additional features. In addition, or as an alternative to having light-modifying particles in the sidewall or other portion of the tube, certain embodiments also include tubes having inner and/or outer surfaces configured for light-altering. For example, the tube may include inner and/or outer faceted surface portions. As other examples, crushed crystal or crystal-like material may be disposed along portions of the inner surface of the tubular. A further example may include a tube having an inner surface portion configured with pyramidal or triangular facets such that this inner faceted surface portion may act as a lens for modifying light (e.g., magnifying, improving light output, etc. ). These facets can take a variety of configurations (eg, shape, size, relative positioning, etc.), and each facet does not necessarily have the same configuration as the other facets. In various embodiments of these that include some means for dimming, the implement may produce a visually pleasing or shimmering light effect. This light display may be particularly pleasing in embodiments where the tube is made of a substantially transparent material that tends to disappear or is not easily visible, giving the impression of a small spot of light in the beverage container.

In any of the various embodiments disclosed herein, the operation of the light source can be controlled by the controller based on user input to provide features such as flashing, strobing, and/or color changing. A controller may include an integrated circuit/printed circuit assembly (eg, an integrated circuit in a printed circuit assembly) and at least one switch. The switch may, for example, allow the user to select from various display modes for the light sources, such as a no-light mode, a light-on mode, a mode in which each of the light sources emits steady or non-flickering light at the same time, the light sources emit intermittently Patterns of light, patterns of various light sources illuminating or flashing at different times according to a predetermined sequence or sequence, patterns of light sources emitting light phased or mixed between colors, patterns of light sources emitting light randomly, light sources responding to sound (e.g., music in a nightclub, etc.) pulsating mode, and/or a mode combining one or more of the above modes. These sounds may be generated by the lighting tool itself (eg, via speakers built into the lighting fixture) or from sources external to the lighting fixture (eg, ambient sounds, etc.). In some embodiments, sound may cause the light sources of two or more different lighting tools to pulse in sync, thus providing a pleasing light pattern or effect. The switch may comprise any of a variety of switches such as push button switches, dome push button switches, membrane switches, motion responsive switches, light sensitive switches, temperature sensitive switches, pressure sensitive switches, voice activated switches, moisture sensitive switches, etc. .

A variety of materials may be used for the tubing of the implement, such as biologically safe materials having properties suitable for placement in contact with materials to be absorbed and classified as food and drug regulatory food contact grade properties. Exemplary materials include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polymers, plastics, flexible materials, rigid materials, materials capable of mass production at relatively low manufacturing costs, and other materials suitable for the desired purpose.

The various lighting tools disclosed herein can be configured to produce any of a variety of colored lights based at least in part on user preference. User preferences, in turn, may be based on a number of factors, including the color of clothing the user is wearing when using the illuminated tool and/or the type of event the user will be attending (eg, prom, sporting event, etc.). For example, a user may like a tool that produces colored light that matches the home team's color when participating in a sporting event (eg, a soccer game).

In any one or more of the various embodiments disclosed herein, the tool can include at least a portion that is UV reactive (e.g., a marker, the sidewall of the tube, a marker, etc.) and that generates UV light for use in at least one light source that illuminates the UV-reactive moiety. For example, the tube (or at least a portion thereof) may be formed from a material that responds to the ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation component of the black light produced by the light source, which in turn produces a visually stimulating effect. Additionally, or alternatively, the tool may also include UV-responsive material in the tube. In this case, the UV-reactive material reacts to the ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation component of the black light produced by the light source, which in turn produces a visually stimulating effect. Exemplary UV-responsive materials that may be used in the tubing, tubing portions, and/or fillers in the tubing include phosphorous-containing plastic materials (eg, zinc sulfide, strontium aluminate, etc.), fluorescent materials, and the like.

In any one or more of the various embodiments disclosed herein, the tool can include a vibrator for causing at least a portion of the tool to vibrate. In these embodiments, the vibrator may be configured to impart sufficient vibration to the tool to also impart at least some vibration to the liquid in the beverage container in which the tool is placed. Vibration applied to the liquid can, for example, help mix the drink and/or help force the ice in the drink container to cool the drink more quickly. By way of example only, the vibrator may comprise an inaccessible relatively small electric motor or a piezoelectric buzzer. Other examples of vibrators include electromagnetic motors, rotor shafts, and eccentric rotors.

In some embodiments, a lighted means may include a controller and a push button switch for switchably connecting at least one light source to at least one power source. The switch may be positioned in the outer tube and coupled to the outer flexible surface portion of the outer tube such that application of external pressure on the outer flexible surface portion activates the switch thereby causing the at least one light source to operate. External pressure may be applied, for example, by a user squeezing the outer tube at the outer flexible surface portion. The switch may also allow a user to cycle through various display modes or select a particular color for the at least one light source by successively squeezing the outer tube around the outer flexible surface portion. In addition, the switch may also allow the user to dim or brighten the intensity of the light, for example by pressing down on the switch with continuous application of pressure on the outer tube around the outer flexible surface portion.

In certain embodiments, the means for illuminating light may include one or more electroluminescent light sources (e.g., one or more electroluminescent wires, electroluminescent sheets, combinations thereof, etc.) A power source extends to form at least one display component of the tool. The display component may be enclosed in a transparent housing formed, for example, by turning over and sealing the seam on the tool where the parts of the tool are joined together. An electroluminescent light source provides light when the power source is activated. Alternatively, other embodiments may include additional or alternative light sources (eg, LEDs, chemiluminescent light sources, black light sources, etc.) disposed within the housing formed at least in part by the seam. Further embodiments may also include housings formed at least in part by seams within or within the tool. For example, various embodiments include internal or external pockets or pouches formed at least in part by corresponding internal or external seams, wherein at least one light source (e.g., glow stick, LED array, electroluminescent light source, LED, chemiluminescent light source, etc.) is provided in the pouch or pocket. In certain embodiments, the tool includes a display component in the form of an at least partially transparent and/or translucent sticker such that an electroluminescent light source (eg, electroluminescent wire, etc.) underlying the sticker is visible. The sticker can be coated over the electroluminescent light source and applied to the tool.

In other embodiments, the means for illuminating includes a sealed unit (e.g., housing, sleeve, box, etc.) having one or more light sources, one or more power supplies for powering the one or more light sources, and Switching means for switchably connecting the light source to the power source. The sealing unit is preferably sealed in an airtight manner and/or in a substantially watertight manner such that liquids cannot enter the sealing unit, thereby protecting the electrical components housed in the sealing unit. The sealing unit may be slidably retained in the fluid flow path or channel of the straw or tube. Accordingly, certain embodiments have the sealing unit configured (e.g., with vanes, fins, contact surfaces, lower portion or bottom, etc.) to facilitate sealing when liquid is drawn upward through the fluid flow channel of the straw when a user sucks on the straw. The unit slides up towards the user's mouth. But when liquid stops moving up through the straw (eg, when the user stops sucking on the straw, etc.), gravity can cause the sealing unit to slidably move down in the fluid flow path of the straw back to the original or rest position of the sealing unit.

In certain preferred embodiments, a liquid actuatable switch is provided such that the switch is actuated when the switch comes into contact with a liquid. For example, the switch may include electrical terminals or probes external to the sealed unit such that the electrical terminals are activated by being sucked into the straw (e.g., when the user starts sucking on the straw and/or when the user inserts the lower end of the straw into the liquid). The conductive liquids in the fluid flow channels causing at least some of the liquid to enter the fluid flow channels, etc.) are electrically connected to each other, thereby switchably connecting the light source to a power source. The switch is then deactivated when there is no longer any liquid to electrically connect the terminals to each other (eg when the straw is removed from the liquid). Other exemplary embodiments include a temperature sensitive switch that is automatically activated when the user inserts the lower end of the straw into liquid (eg, a cold or hot beverage) that has a temperature that causes the temperature sensitive switch to automatically activate. The switch can then be subsequently deactivated when the implement is removed from the cold drink, and the switch returned to ambient temperature. Alternative exemplary switches include push button switches, motion responsive switches (eg, ball switches, toggle switches), temperature sensitive switches, magnetic switches, mechanical switches, electrical switches, manually operated switches, automatically operated switches, combinations thereof, and the like.

In a particular embodiment, the upper and lower end portions of the straw or tube can be clamped, crimped, or otherwise configured (e.g., with an integrally formed narrower constriction, a separate component, etc.) so that the sealing unit can Slidably retained in the fluid flow path of the straw, thereby constraining removal of the sealing unit from the fluid flow path of the straw. By way of example only, certain embodiments include straws or tubes with fluid flow channels approximately one-half inch in diameter. The straw included pinching sections about one inch from the top and bottom of the straw. A sealing unit is slidably retained in the fluid flow channel substantially between the clamping portions. In certain preferred embodiments, the sealed unit includes at least one LED, a liquid actuatable switch (e.g., exposed electrical terminals or probes, etc.), and at least one battery (e.g., a watch battery approximately one quarter inch in diameter wait). Dimensions stated in this paragraph (as all dimensions stated herein) are examples only and may vary, for example, with particular applications.

In other embodiments, one or more electroluminescent light sources (e.g., electroluminescent wire, electroluminescent sheet material, combinations thereof, etc.) include an adhesive or adhesive backing so that the electroluminescent light source can be applied directly to the tool superior. The electroluminescent light source may be connected to at least one power source, such as a button cell battery and/or other power source.

In certain embodiments, the tool includes one or more electroluminescent light sources (e.g., one or more electroluminescent wires, electroluminescent sheet material, other combinations, etc.). Additional embodiments include one or more electroluminescent sheet materials disposed in and applied to one or more interior surface portions of the tool. Further embodiments include one or more electroluminescent sheet materials applied to one or more outer surface portions of the tool.

Still other embodiments include one or more electroluminescent light sources integrally formed (eg, printed, etc.) as part of the material forming the tool. In this case, the tool itself can be seen as integrally comprising the light source.

Various embodiments may also include fills capable of heating, cooling, glow-like lighting, and/or emitting light to the adjacent environment. A variety of fillers may be used in any one or more of the embodiments disclosed herein. Examples of fillers are provided for purposes of illustration only and not limitation. In this regard, certain embodiments may include one or more of the following fillers: polystyrene blends, acrylics, plastic beads or pellets, pure ice refrigerant, a specific heat capacity having a specific heat capacity higher than that of air fillers, fillers having a specific heat capacity equal to, higher than, or lower than that of water, fillers with better heat-retaining and/or cold-retaining properties than air alone, including soluble salts, candle wax, Polyethylene, polypropylene, fillers of phase change materials, fillers having a specific heat capacity in the range of about 2300 joules per kilogram per degree Celsius to about 2500 joules per kilogram per degree Celsius, gels, water, and/or generally used Materials for reusable ice packs, reusable heating pads, hot/cold gel packs, single use hand and toe warmers.

Other aspects provide methods related to using lighting tools. In an exemplary embodiment, a method generally includes transmitting a signal from a source external to the lighting tool to at least one lighting tool, receiving the signal at the lighting tool (eg, wirelessly, etc.), and controlling at least one of the lighting tools based on the signal. The operation of a light source. In some embodiments, the method may also include transmitting a signal to a plurality of lighting tools, wherein each lighting tool includes at least one light source; and controlling the operation of the light source based on the signal (e.g., causing the operation of the light source to synchronization, etc.).

The operation of the light sources of the lighting tool can be synchronized according to the signal to provide stimulating and pleasing visual light displays or effects. For example, a fan of a sporting event may use a lighting tool that includes a light source that emits a synchronized flashing light of a color that matches the home team's color in response to a signal. Or for example, the signal may cause the light source to produce a wave-like effect of light passing through stadium stands.

Accordingly, various embodiments may provide relatively easy and inexpensive ways to improve the mood or atmosphere of an occasion, provide visual pleasure or calm (e.g., increase consumer enjoyment when consuming a drink or food), convey information to a user (e.g., , with the help of markers), and many novelty-related results.

Certain terms are used herein for reference only and are not intended to be limiting. By way of example, terms such as "upper," "lower," "above," and "below" refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Terms such as "front", "rear", "rear", "bottom" and "side" describe the orientation of parts of a component within a consistent but arbitrary frame of reference, by reference to the text and associated drawings that describe the component in question and make the orientation clear. Such terminology may include the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof and words of similar import. Similarly, the terms "first", "second" and other such numerical terms referring to structures do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context.

When introducing an element or feature and an exemplary embodiment, the articles "a," "the," and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of such element or feature. The terms "comprising", "including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements or features other than those specifically stated. It is further to be understood that the method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

The description of the disclosure is merely exemplary in nature, and variations that do not depart from the gist of the disclosure are therefore intended to be within the scope of the disclosure. Such variations should not be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims (47)

1. A lighting tool for drinking and/or eating, said tool comprising: a first tubular having at least one internal fluid flow channel therethrough, wherein fluid can be contained and conveyed through the at least one internal fluid flow channel; A second tubular having at least one internal lumen therein, at least a portion of said second tubular being positioned within said at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid may generally surround and pass through said second tubular in said at least one said at least a portion of one internal fluid flow channel is received and drawn through said at least one internal fluid flow channel; at least one light source at least partially positioned within said at least one interior cavity of said second tubular; and at least one housing configured to house at least one power source therein for powering the at least one light source, at least a portion of the at least one housing being located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid may substantially surround and received through said at least a portion of said at least one housing in said at least one interior fluid flow passage and drawn through said at least one interior fluid flow passage. 2. The lighting tool of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the at least one housing is attached to the first tubular. 3. The lighting tool of claim 2, wherein the at least one housing includes generally opposed end portions and generally opposed side portions, and wherein the end portions of the housing are attached to the first tubular , wherein the side portion of the housing has a separation distance from the first tube such that fluid can be contained and drawn through the separation distance separating the side portion of the housing from the first tube. 4. The lighting tool of claim 3, wherein at least a portion of said at least one housing is attached to an open end of said second tubular such that said at least one housing is in contact with said second tubular. The junction between the open ends is substantially sealed. 5. The lighting tool of claim 1, wherein the at least one housing is located entirely within the at least one interior fluid flow channel of the first tubular. 6. The lighting tool of claim 1, wherein the second tubular is located entirely within the at least one interior fluid flow channel of the first tubular. 7. The lighting tool of claim 1, wherein the at least one light source is located entirely within the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular. 8. The lighting tool of claim 1 , further comprising at least one conductive lead extending from the at least one light source through at least a portion of the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular to to the at least one housing for electrically connecting the at least one light source to the at least one power supply in the at least one housing. 9. The lighting tool of claim 8, further comprising at least one substrate coupled to the at least one conductive lead, and wherein at least a portion of the substrate is located on the at least one substrate of the second tubular in the inner cavity. 10. The lighting tool of claim 8, further comprising at least one ribbon cable at least partially located within said at least one interior cavity of said second tubular body, wherein said at least one light source comprises a at least one LED of at least one ribbon cable, and wherein at least a portion of said conductive lead is fitted to said at least one ribbon cable. 11. The lighting tool of claim 1, wherein the tool is operatively connected to a drinking straw. 12. A lighting kit for drinking and/or eating, said kit comprising: a first tubular having at least one internal fluid flow channel therethrough, wherein fluid can be contained and conveyed through the at least one internal fluid flow channel; A second tubular having at least one internal lumen therein, said second tubular being positioned within said at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid may substantially surround and pass through said at least one internal fluid flow channel a second tubular is received and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel; at least one light source in said at least one interior cavity of said second tubular; at least one housing configured to house at least one power source therein for powering the at least one light source, the at least one housing coupled to the second tube, wherein the at least one housing is connected to the second The joint between the tubes is substantially sealed, and the at least one housing is located in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can substantially surround and pass through the at least one of the at least one internal fluid flow channel housing and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel; and at least one conductive lead extending from the at least one light source through at least a portion of the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular to the at least one housing for connecting the at least one light source Electrically connected to the at least one power source in the at least one housing. 13. The lighting tool of claim 12, wherein the at least one housing includes generally opposed end portions and generally opposed side portions, and wherein the end portions of the housing are attached to the first tubular , wherein the side portion of the housing has a separation distance from the first tube such that fluid can be contained and drawn through the separation distance separating the side portion of the housing from the first tube. 14. The lighting tool of claim 12, further comprising at least one substrate located in the at least one interior cavity of the second tubular, and wherein the at least one light source and the at least one conductive lead coupled to the at least one substrate. 15. The lighting tool of claim 12, further comprising at least one ribbon cable located within said at least one interior cavity of said second tubular, wherein said at least one light source comprises a light source coupled to said at least one at least one LED of a ribbon cable, and wherein the conductive leads are coupled to the at least one ribbon cable. 16. The lighting tool of claim 12, wherein the tool is operatively connected to a drinking straw. 17. A lighting kit for drinking and/or eating, said kit comprising: at least one tube having at least one internal fluid flow channel therethrough, wherein fluid can be contained and communicated through the at least one internal fluid flow channel; at least one light source; at least one housing rotatably mounted to the tubular for rotation within the at least one internal fluid flow passage, the at least one housing including at least one vane extending into the at least one internal fluid flow passage and configured such that at least a portion of fluid contained in and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel contacts the at least one vane to cause rotation of the at least one housing; and at least one generator for generating electrical power for operating said at least one light source, said at least one generator comprising at least one stator in said at least one housing, and at least one rotor in said at least one stator , the at least one rotor is coupled to the at least one housing for common rotation therewith. 18. The lighting tool of claim 17, wherein the at least one light source comprises one or more light sources contained in the at least one housing and rotatable with the at least one housing. 19. The lighting tool of claim 17, wherein the at least one light source comprises one or more light sources in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can pass through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The one or more light sources are housed and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. 20. The lighting tool of claim 17, further comprising at least one rim rotatably mounted to said at least one tube, and said at least one housing is attached to said at least one rim so as to communicate with said at least one rim. At least one spoke that co-rotates together. 21. A lighting kit for drinking and/or eating , said kit comprising: at least one tube having at least one internal fluid flow channel therethrough, wherein fluid can be contained and communicated through the at least one internal fluid flow channel; at least one power source having at least one portion located in said at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can substantially surround and pass through said at least one portion of said at least one power source location in said at least one internal fluid flow channel while being contained and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel; and At least one light source located at least partially within the at least one tube and powered by the at least one power source. 22. The lighting tool of claim 21, further comprising at least one housing for positioning the at least one power source in the at least one internal fluid flow channel. 23. The lighting tool of claim 22, wherein said at least one light source is in said at least one housing such that fluid can be contained and drawn through said at least one light source in said at least one housing. At least one internal fluid flow channel. 24. The lighting tool of claim 22, wherein the at least one tube comprises a surface defining the at least one internal fluid flow channel, and wherein the tool further comprises one or more spokes that connect the The at least one shell is attached to the tubular surface defining the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that the at least one shell is spaced apart from the tubular surface defining the at least one internal fluid flow channel. 25. The lighting tool of claim 24, wherein the one or more spokes are configured such that the at least one housing is positioned substantially on the at least one inner fluid flow channel along a longitudinal central axis of the at least one inner fluid flow channel. The center of an internal fluid flow channel. 26. The lighting tool of claim 22, wherein the at least one tube includes a surface defining the at least one internal fluid flow channel, and wherein the at least one housing is directly attached to a surface defining the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The tubular surface of the flow channel is such that the at least one shell is asymmetrically located in the at least one inner fluid flow channel. 27. The lighting tool of claim 21 , wherein the at least one power source is located entirely within the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can be contained and drawn through the at least one power source substantially around and past the at least one power source. said at least one internal fluid flow channel. 28. The lighting tool of claim 21, wherein the at least one tube further comprises at least one sidewall, and wherein the at least one light source comprises one or more light sources located in the sidewall. 29. The lighting tool of claim 21, wherein the at least one tube further comprises interior and exterior surfaces defining one or more chambers in a sidewall of the at least one tube. 30. The lighting tool of claim 29, further comprising a substance located in at least one of the one or more chambers, wherein the substance comprises a gel, a light changing material, a hot/cold gel , at least one or more of colored substances, fluorescent substances, and glow-in-the-dark substances. 31. The lighting tool of claim 29, wherein said at least one light source comprises at least one LED and at least one optical fiber, said at least one optical fiber extending into at least one chamber such that light from said at least one LED is transmitted through the at least one optical fiber. 32. The lighting tool of claim 21, further comprising at least one housing rotatably mounted to said at least one tube for rotation within said at least one internal fluid flow channel. 33. The lighting tool of claim 32, wherein the at least one housing further comprises at least one vane extending into the at least one internal fluid flow channel and configured to be received in and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. At least a portion of the fluid of an internal fluid flow channel contacts the at least one vane to cause rotation of the at least one housing. 34. The lighting tool of claim 32, wherein the at least one light source is within and rotatable with the at least one housing. 35. The lighting tool of claim 32, wherein the at least one power supply is within and rotatable with the at least one housing. 36. The lighting tool of claim 32, wherein the tool is configured such that rotation of the at least one housing generates electrical power for operating the at least one light source. 37. The lighting tool of claim 31 , wherein the at least one light source comprises one or more light sources in the at least one internal fluid flow channel such that fluid can pass through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. The one or more light sources are housed and drawn through the at least one internal fluid flow channel. 38. The lighting tool of claim 31 , wherein the at least one tube includes at least one light-transmitting portion, and wherein the at least one light source is positioned to direct light to the at least one light-transmitting portion, At least some of the light may be transmitted through the light-transmissive portion and be visually perceived by a viewer, thereby improving the decorative appearance of the implement. 39. The lighting tool of claim 21, further comprising one or more indicia highlighted by light from the at least one light source. 40. The lighting tool of claim 39, wherein the one or more indicia are responsive to black light, and the at least one light source includes a light source that generates black light for highlighting the one or more indicia. At least one light source. 41. The lighting tool of claim 39, wherein the one or more markings are etched. 42. The lighting tool of claim 39, wherein the one or more indicia are integrally formed at an acute angle relative to a direction of light emitted by the at least one light source. 43. The lighting tool of claim 39, wherein the one or more indicia are printed. 44. The lighting tool of claim 21 , wherein at least a portion of the at least one tube is responsive to black light, and wherein the at least one light source includes generating the light for highlighting the at least one tube. At least one electric light source of black light for the black light responsive portion. 45. The lighting tool of claim 21 , wherein the at least one light source housing is within at least one housing slidably retained in the at least one internal fluid flow channel so as to be received in and drawn through the at least one At least a portion of the fluid of the inner fluid flow channel causes the at least one housing and the at least light source housed therein to slidably move within the at least one inner fluid flow channel. 46. The lighting tool of claim 45, wherein said at least one internal fluid flow channel comprises first and second portions spaced apart from each other, said at least one internal fluid flow channel at said first and second portions Smaller in size, and wherein the at least one housing and the at least one light source housed therein are slidably retained between the first and second portions in the at least one internal fluid flow channel. 47. The lighting tool of claim 45, further comprising electrical terminals external to said at least one housing for electrical connection, said electrical terminals being adapted for use when fluid in said at least one internal fluid flow channel The terminals, when electrically connected to each other, connect the at least one light source to the at least one power source.

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