CN101798009A - Bottle adapted for thermally conditioning and/or filtering a consumable beverage, kit for a consumable beverage and method of customizing a bottle - Google Patents

Abstract

A bottle adapted to thermally condition and/or filter a consumable beverage may include a filter detachably connected to a straw detachably connected to a bottle cap. The thermal energy storage member or element may be located on the straw between the filter and the lid. A kit for consumable beverages and a method for customizing a bottle for consumable beverages are also disclosed.

Description

Bottles adapted to thermally regulate and/or filter consumable beverages, kits for consumable beverages and methods of customizing bottles

technical field

The present invention relates generally to bottles, and more particularly to bottles that can be used to filter and/or cool consumable beverages.

Background technique

A typical sports drink bottle or the like allows the beverage to be conveniently carried for subsequent consumption. However, some beverages become less palatable after a longer period of time due to changes in the temperature of the beverage therein. Even when temperature changes are not an issue, it is often desirable to fill or refill bottles when away from the home. This may be difficult to resolve due to potential impurities in the beverage that are added to the bottle.

It may be advantageous to provide a bottle suitable for thermally regulating and/or filtering consumable beverages that is easy to use; facilitates transport; and/or facilitates easy refilling of beverages from various beverage sources.

Contents of the invention

Briefly, one embodiment of the present invention relates to a bottle suitable for thermally regulating and filtering a consumable beverage, the bottle including a container configured to hold the consumable beverage. The container defines an outlet and a cavity configured to hold a consumable beverage. A cap is detachably fastened to the bottle to cover the outlet. The cover defines a cover fluid channel. A drinking spout is located on the lid and is configured to facilitate consumption of the consumable beverage from the container. The lid fluid channel is configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout. A filter is located in the cavity. A thermal energy storage component is placed in the cavity and between the filter and the cover. A thermal energy storage component defines an aperture therethrough. The hole is configured to receive a straw therein. The straw has first and second straw ends. The first straw end is configured to releasably engage the filter and the second straw end is configured to releasably engage the lid to form a straw fluid passage between the filter and the lid fluid passage. When the straw is engaged with the filter and lid and the thermal energy storage part is on the straw, the bottle is adapted to thermally regulate and filter the consumable beverage and the bottle is adapted to allow consumption from the cavity and through the filter, through the straw fluid passage, through the lid fluid passage And consumable beverage through the drinking mouth.

In another aspect, an embodiment of the present invention is directed to a bottle suitable for thermally regulating and filtering a consumable beverage, the bottle including a container configured to hold the consumable beverage. The container defines an outlet and a cavity configured to hold a consumable beverage. A lid is detachably fastened to the container to cover the outlet. The cover defines a cover fluid channel. A drinking spout is located on the lid and is configured to facilitate consumption of the consumable beverage from the container. The lid fluid channel is configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout. A filter is located in the cavity. A thermal energy storage component is placed in the cavity and between the filter and the cover. A thermal energy storage component defines an aperture therethrough. The aperture is adapted to form a thermal energy storage component fluid passage. The thermal energy storage component has first and second thermal energy storage component ends. The second thermal energy storage component end is detachably engageable with the filter. The first thermal energy storage component end is releasably engageable with the cover such that the thermal energy storage component fluid channel forms a conduit between the filter and the cover fluid channel. When the thermal energy storage member is engaged with the filter and lid, the bottle is adapted to thermally regulate and filter the consumable beverage and the bottle is adapted to allow consumption from the cavity and through the filter, through the thermal energy storage member fluid passage, through the lid fluid passage and by drinking Mouth of consumable drink.

In another aspect, an embodiment of the invention relates to a bottle suitable for thermal conditioning and filtering of consumable beverages. The container is configured to hold a consumable beverage. The container defines an outlet and a cavity configured to hold a consumable beverage and having a cavity base. The cap is detachably fastened to the bottle to cover the outlet. The cover defines a cover fluid channel. A drinking spout is located on the lid and is configured to facilitate consumption of the consumable beverage from the container. The lid fluid channel is configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout. A filter is located in the cavity adjacent to the base of the cavity. A thermal energy storage component is placed in the cavity and between the filter and the cover. A thermal energy storage component engages the cover and filter. A straw is located in the cavity and spaced from the thermal energy storage component. The straw has first and second straw ends. The first straw end engages the filter and the second straw end engages the cap to form a straw fluid channel between the filter and the cap fluid channel. When the straw is engaged with the filter and lid and the thermal energy storage member is engaged with the filter and lid, the bottle is adapted to thermally regulate and filter the consumable beverage and the bottle is adapted to allow consumption from the cavity and through the filter, through the straw fluid passage, through The cover fluid channels and consumable beverage through the drinking spout.

In another aspect, an embodiment of the invention is directed to a bottle suitable for thermally regulating and filtering a consumable beverage, the bottle including a container configured to hold the consumable beverage. The container defines an outlet and a cavity configured to hold a consumable beverage and having a cavity base. The cap is detachably fastened to the bottle to cover the outlet. The cover defines a cover fluid channel. A drinking spout is located on the lid and is configured to facilitate consumption of the consumable beverage from the container. The lid fluid channel is configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout. A filter is located in the cavity adjacent to the cover. Filters include filter cartridges and filter housings. A filter cartridge is engaged with the cover and a filter housing is engaged with the filter cartridge. A thermal energy storage component is located in the cavity and positioned on the filter cartridge. The bottle is adapted to thermally regulate and filter the consumable beverage and the bottle is adapted to allow consumption of the consumable beverage from the cavity and through the filter, through the cap fluid passage and through the drinking spout.

In another aspect, an embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method of providing a customizable bottle adapted to heat regulate and filter water. The method comprises the steps of: providing a container configured to hold a consumable beverage, the container defining an outlet and a cavity configured to receive the consumable beverage; providing a cap releasably fastened to the bottle to cover the outlet, the cap defining a lid fluid passageway on said lid including a drinking spout and configured to facilitate consumption of a consumable beverage from the container, the lid fluid passage being configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout; positioned in the cavity a filter; positioning a thermal energy storage member in the cavity and between the filter and the cover, the thermal energy storage member defining an aperture therethrough configured to receive a straw therein, wherein the thermal energy storage The components include a plurality of thermal energy storage elements assembled in a side-by-side manner to extend between one side of the filter and the cover, the thermal energy storage elements being adjustable in at least one of angular orientation relative to the straw and side-by-side positioning relative to each other and, inserting the straw through the hole of the thermal energy storage component and fastening the straw to the filter and lid, wherein when the straw is engaged with the filter and lid and the thermal energy storage component is on the straw, the bottle is suitable for thermal regulation and filterable Consume beverages.

In another aspect, an embodiment of the invention relates to a kit for use with a consumable beverage. The kit includes a container configured to hold a consumable beverage. The container defines an outlet and a cavity configured to hold a consumable beverage. The cap is detachably fastened to the bottle to cover the outlet. The cover defines a cover fluid channel. A drinking spout is located on the lid and is configured to facilitate consumption of the consumable beverage from the container. The lid fluid channel is configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout. A filter is adapted to be positioned in the cavity. A thermal energy storage component is placed in the cavity and between the filter and the cover. The thermal energy storage component defines an aperture therethrough. The hole is configured to receive a straw therein. The straw has first and second straw ends. The first straw end is configured to releasably engage the filter and the second straw end is configured to releasably engage the lid to form a straw fluid passage between the filter and the lid fluid passage. When the straw is engaged with the filter and lid and the thermal energy storage part is on the straw, the bottle is adapted to thermally regulate and filter the consumable beverage and the bottle is adapted to allow consumption from the cavity and through the filter, through the straw fluid passage, through the lid fluid passage And consumable beverage through the drinking mouth. If additional cooling is desired and filtering of the consumable beverage is not desired, a second thermal energy storage component is constructed in place of the filter.

Description of drawings

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For purposes of illustrating the invention, a presently preferred embodiment is shown in the drawings. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and implementations shown. In the picture:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a bottle for use with a consumable beverage in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; the bottle includes a preferably encapsulated filter and a thermal energy storage component to allow the consumable beverage to be thermally conditioned (i.e., or heated) prior to consumption. heated or cooled) and filtered container; preferably a thermal energy storage component is located between the lid and the filter; the lid includes a drinking spout for consumption of the consumable beverage;

Figure 2 is a partially exploded view of the bottle of Figure 1 illustrating the lid, thermal energy storage member, straw, filter and top of the container; the container defines an outlet and a cavity configured to hold a consumable beverage; the bottom of the lid includes a A laterally raised tube portion that may be used to form a twist-lock connection with the straw; one side of the filter preferably includes a tube portion and a lateral protrusion to form a twist-lock connection with the other side of the straw; the thermal energy storage member preferably the ground has a substantially conical shape;

Figure 3 is a radial cross-sectional view of the bottle of Figure 1; the cap may be detachably fastened to the bottle via a threaded connection to cover the outlet. The lid defines a lid fluid passage configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to a drinking spout pivotable thereon; the filter has first and second filter ends. The first filter end can be located on one side of the filter to engage the straw and the second filter end can be positioned adjacent the base of the cavity. Liquid drawn through the filter defines a filtration path substantially axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the thermal energy storage component; the thermal energy storage component is disposed in the cavity and may be located between the filter and the cover; the thermal energy storage component defines a A hole through the thermal energy storage component; the hole can be configured to receive a straw therein; the thermal energy storage component has first and second thermal energy storage component ends; the second thermal energy storage component end can be larger than the first end and can be configured is an area substantially close to one side of the filter; a first thermal energy storage member end is positioned adjacent to the lid and a second thermal energy storage end is positioned adjacent to a side of the filter; the straw has first and second straw ends, the first straw end part is configured to detachably engage the filter, and the second straw end is configured to detachably engage the lid to form a straw fluid passage between the filter and the lid fluid passage; The second twist lock connection is detachably engaged to the filter and lid; when the straw is engaged with the filter and lid and the thermal energy storage member is positioned over the straw, the bottle is suitable for thermal conditioning and filtering of consumable beverages and the bottle is for allowing the consumable beverage from the cavity to be consumed through the filter, through the straw fluid passage, through the lid fluid passage and through the drinking spout;

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a bottle similar to that of Figure 1 with a second thermal energy storage component instead of a filter; a preferred kit for use with a consumable beverage includes a filter and a second thermal energy storage component; Preferably, but not necessarily, the second thermal energy storage component has substantially the same outer shape as the filter to allow the bottle to have substantially the same aesthetic appearance regardless of whether the filter or the second thermal energy storage component is used; the second thermal energy The storage part may comprise a tube portion and lateral protrusions (similar to the protrusions on the inner surface of the lid) to allow twist locking of the second thermal energy storage part to the straw and/or the thermal energy storage part;

Figure 5 is a radial cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the bottle of the present invention; a thermal energy storage component is placed in the cavity and between the filter and the lid; the thermal energy storage component defines a fluid channel suitable for forming the thermal energy storage component, a hole through the thermal energy storage component; the thermal energy storage component has first and second thermal energy storage component ends; the second thermal energy storage component end is preferably detachably engaged with the filter; the first thermal energy storage component end can Detachably engages the cap so that the thermal energy storage member fluid passage forms a conduit between the filter and the cap fluid passage; when the thermal energy storage member is engaged with the filter and the cap, the bottle is suitable for thermal conditioning and filtering of consumable beverages and the bottle adapted to allow consumption of the consumable beverage from the cavity through the filter, through the thermal energy storage member fluid passage, through the lid fluid passage and through the drinking spout;

Figure 5A is a radial cross-sectional view of a second embodiment variant of the bottle of the invention shown in Figure 5; the thermal energy storage component can be detachably engaged with the filter without the use of a straw; the engagement can be via a twist-lock connection; Any twist lock connection shown in this application and in any of the drawings may alternatively be any of a threaded connection, a snap fit connection, a friction fit or any other connection without departing from the scope of the present invention. Appropriate method of connection;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a thermal energy storage component; the thermal energy storage component may comprise a plurality of thermal energy storage elements that can be assembled in a side-by-side fashion to extend between one side of the filter and the cover; the thermal energy storage elements are preferably in At least one of angular orientation relative to the straw and in a side-by-side positioning order relative to each other is adjustable to allow for a customized look for the bottle; the thermal energy storage elements can each be provided with colour, markings, images and textures any one or more of the surfaces to allow a customized appearance for the bottle depending on the positioning of the thermal energy storage element;

Figure 7 is a radial cross-sectional view illustrating three thermal energy storage elements positioned in a side-by-side manner over a straw twist-locked on one end to the filter and on the other end to the lid; preferably any thermal energy the stacking order or rotational position of the storage element relative to the straw can be changed by the user;

Figure 8 is an exploded view of a third embodiment of the bottle of the present invention; the filter is located in the cavity adjacent to the base of the cavity; the thermal energy storage component is placed in the cavity and between the filter and the lid; the thermal energy storage component engageable with the lid and the filter; the straw can be located in the cavity and spaced apart from the thermal energy storage component; the straw has first and second straw ends; the first straw end engages the filter and the second straw end engages the lid Engaged to form a straw fluid passage between the filter and the cap fluid passage; the straw and the thermal energy storage member may be substantially parallel and both connected to one side of the filter; the filter may include first and second filter ends The first filter end can be located on one side of the filter and the second filter end can be positioned adjacent to the base of the cavity so that liquid drawn through the filter is removed from the cavity near the base of the cavity; When the straw is engaged with the filter and lid and the thermal energy storage member is engaged with the filter and lid, the bottle is adapted to thermally regulate and filter the consumable beverage and the bottle is adapted to allow fluid passage through the filter, through the straw, through the lid fluid passage and consuming the consumable beverage from the cavity through the drinking mouth;

Figure 9 is a side view of the bottle of Figure 8;

Figure 10 is an exploded view of a fourth preferred embodiment of the present invention; the filter may be located in the cavity adjacent to the cover and can include a filter cartridge and a filter housing; the filter cartridge engages the cover and the filter housing engages the filter The cartridge is engaged; the thermal energy storage component is preferably located in the cavity and placed on the filter cartridge; the bottle is preferably adapted to thermally regulate and filter the consumable beverage and the bottle is adapted to allow fluid passage through the filter, through the cap and through The consumable beverage from the cavity is consumed by drinking from the mouth.

Figure 11 is a side view of the bottle of Figure 10; the filter used in the bottle may be either a radial flow filter or an axial flow filter or any other suitable filter;

12 is another side view of the bottle of FIG. 11 showing the flow of the consumable beverage through an axial flow filter; the filter has first and second cartridge ends and cartridge sidewalls; the first cartridge end The portion is positioned adjacent to the lid fluid passage and the second cartridge end is positioned adjacent to the thermal energy storage component; the filter may be constructed such that the consumable beverage enters the housing adjacent the lid and flows substantially along the sidewall of the filter cartridge to the second cartridge end , exits the first cartridge end, and flows into the cap fluid passage; and

13 is another side view of the bottle of FIG. 11 showing the consumable beverage flowing through a radial flow filter; the filter cartridge has first and second cartridge ends and cartridge sidewalls; the first cartridge The end portion is positioned adjacent to the lid fluid passage and the second cartridge end is positioned adjacent to the thermal energy storage component; the filter may be constructed such that the consumable beverage enters the housing adjacent the lid, flows into the filter cartridge substantially through the cartridge sidewall, from the first A cartridge end exits and flows into the cap fluid passage.

Detailed ways

Specific terms are used in the following description for convenience only and are not limiting. The expressions "right", "left", "upper" and "lower" indicate directions in the figures to which reference is made. The expressions "inwardly" and "outwardly" refer to directions towards and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the system for use by the consumable beverage and its designated components. The term includes the expressions specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof and expressions of similar import. Additionally, the expressions "a" and "one" are defined to include one or more of the referenced item unless specifically stated otherwise.

Referring to FIGS. 1-13 , wherein like reference numerals designate like elements throughout the views, a preferred embodiment of a bottle for use with consumable beverages is shown and generally designated 10 . Briefly, the bottle 10 preferably includes a thermal energy storage component 46 (further described below) and a filter package that is secured within the bottle 10 via a convenient twist-lock feature (or via any suitable fastening mechanism or connector). 70 (further described below), the twist-lock structure allows the thermal energy component 46 and/or filter 70 to be easily disengaged or swapped out from either component so that the thermal energy storage component 46 is being heated or cooled or filtered. While the receptacle is being exchanged, the remainder of the bottle 10 can be used for beverages.

While a twist lock connection is shown in the figures, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize from this disclosure that any other known suitable connection mechanism, such as fasteners, friction fit, snap fit, etc. used in conjunction without departing from the scope of the present invention. Alternatively, thermal energy storage component 46 and cover 26 and/or filter 70 can be a single integral member. Additionally, the bottle 10 can be used with one of a plurality of interchangeable thermal energy storage components 46 (or a combination of thermal energy storage components) to avoid the risk of waiting for a single thermal energy storage component 46 to refreeze or reheat before continuing to use the bottle 10. Delay.

The bottle 10 and its constituent parts are preferably formed from a strong, non-reactive, durable material such as a suitable polymer. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate in light of this disclosure that bottle 10 and its various components can be formed from any material suitable for use with a beverage. The thermal energy storage component 46 preferably comprises a gel-like material 48 formed from a refreezable and/or reheatable material such as non-toxic materials used in gel packs and the like.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3 , a bottle 10 for use with a consumable beverage 48 includes a container 12 having an outlet 14 . While it is preferred that the container 12 is part of a sports drink bottle, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any type of container 12 can be used with the bottle 10 of the present invention. Similarly, while it is preferred that the outlet 14 of the container 12 is substantially circularly shaped, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the outlet 14 can have any shape without departing from the scope of the invention.

The container 12 preferably has at least one thread 16 positioned adjacent to the outlet 14 substantially around a substantial portion of the periphery of the container 12 for engaging the lid 16 . Alternatively, container 12 could be engaged with lid 16 via a snap fit or any other suitable connection without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Referring to Figure 1, bottle 10 is preferably adapted for thermal conditioning and filtering of consumable beverages. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , the bottle 10 includes a container 12 configured to hold a consumable beverage 98 . The container defines a cavity 22 configured to hold a consumable beverage 98 . The bottom of the cavity 22 forms a cavity base 24 . The container outlet 14 is preferably formed by an upper edge perimeter forming a lip 18 . Surrounding lip 18 may be a shoulder 20 formed by the outer surface of container 12 . While the illustrated bottle has a generally oval shape, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate in light of this disclosure that the shape of the bottle may vary and include embossing, etc. without departing from the scope of the invention.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , a cap 26 is preferably releasably secured to the bottle 10 to cover the outlet 14 . The lid 26 can include a lower edge 36 that can abut the container shoulder 20 when the lid 26 is secured to the container 12 . A combined date/time element and gasket 38 may be positioned around the lower edge of the lid 26 to form a fluid seal when the lid 26 is engaged with the container 12 . When the lid 26 is not engaged with the container 12, the liner 38 may be rotatable to allow the date on which the beverage was placed therein to be remembered.

The cap 26 may include a handle 28 extending away from the bottle substantially obliquely relative to the base of the bottle 10 . The handle 28 preferably has a substantially inverted U-shape. The handle 28 may be hollow to reduce weight and simplify portability. The lower/inner surface of the cover 26 may include a downwardly depending tube portion 40 . Preferably laterally extending projections 42 are located on the tube portion 40 for forming a twist lock connection. It is preferred that the tube portion 40 includes a substantially annular mating surface 44 configured to abuttingly engage a thermal energy storage member 46 .

As best shown in FIG. 3 , the cover 26 preferably defines a cover fluid channel 34 . The lid fluid channel is configured to direct fluid through the lid 26 to the drinking spout 30 . A drinking spout 30 may be located on the lid 26 and secured thereto via a pivot member 32 . Drinking spout 30 is configured to facilitate consumption of consumable beverage 98 from container 12 . Preferably, but not necessarily, the cap 26 includes at least one mating thread for engaging the container 12 . In light of this disclosure, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any known method of coupling lid 26 to container 12 may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3 , filter 70 is preferably located within cavity 22 . The filter 70 preferably includes a wire mesh 72 along the inlet and outlet portions of the filter 70 . Filter 70 may include carbon 76 and/or ceramic 74 and/or any other suitable filter material. Although a specific filter configuration is shown in FIG. 3 , those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any suitable type of filter 70 can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. The filter 70 can be designed for radial fluid flow 108 (as shown in FIG. 13 ) or axial fluid flow 108 (as shown in FIG. 12 ) through which the consumable beverage 98 passes.

The filter 70 has first and second filter ends 84A, 84B. The first filter end can be located on the side 82 of the filter 70 that engages the suction tube 62 and/or the thermal energy storage component 46 . Second filter end 84B may be positioned adjacent base 24 of cavity 22 such that liquid 98 introduced through filter 70 defines a filter path substantially axially aligned with longitudinal axis 55 of thermal energy storage component 46 . The side 82 of the filter 70 preferably includes a tube portion 80 and a protrusion 78 to serve as part of a twist lock connection.

Referring to FIGS. 2 , 4 and 5 , thermal energy storage component 46 may be positioned within cavity 22 between filter 70 and cover 26 . The thermal energy storage component 46 may define an aperture 54 therethrough. The thermal energy storage component has a longitudinal axis 55 along which the apertures 54 are preferably substantially aligned. Referring specifically to FIG. 4 , aperture 54 may be configured to receive straw 62 therein. Alternatively, referring to FIGS. 5 and 5A , aperture 54 may be configured not for suction tube 62 but instead to form thermal energy storage member fluid passage 59 . Holes 54 may include slots 56 to assist in forming a twist lock connection. That is, the bottle 10 may not include a straw without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 2 , the thermal energy storage member 50 may be substantially conically shaped with first and second thermal energy storage member end portions 52A, 52B. It is preferred, but not required, that the second thermal energy storage component end 52B is larger than the first end 52A and is configured substantially proximate to an area of one side 82 of the filter 70 . The first thermal energy storage component end 52A is preferably positioned adjacent the cover 26 and the second thermal energy storage end 52B is preferably positioned adjacent the side 84 of the filter 70 . The first thermal energy storage component end 52A may be configured to abut the mating surface 44 of the cover 26 .

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , the thermal energy storage component 46 may include a plurality of thermal energy storage elements 58 that can be assembled in a side-by-side fashion to extend between one side 84 of the filter and the cover 26 . The thermal energy storage elements 58 are preferably adjustable in at least one of an angular orientation relative to the straw 62 and a side-by-side positioning relative to each other. Element 58 may include different colors, shapes, logos or images 60 . This allows the appearance of the bottle 10 to be personalized and customized by manipulating the thermal energy storage element 58 and/or exchanging a single element 58 with another element 58 that is part of a kit or another bottle. Referring to FIG. 5 , the thermal energy storage component 46 may include a slot 56 to form part of a twist lock connection.

While a preferred configuration of thermal energy storage component 46 has been described above, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any configuration can be used without departing from the scope of the invention. Similarly, any suitable connection arrangement between the lid 26, the filter 70, and/or the straw 62 and the thermal energy storage component 46 can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. As noted above, the cover 26 could also be made as a single, integral piece with the thermal energy storage member 46 without departing from the scope of the present invention.

2 and 3, the straw 62 has first and second straw ends 66A, 66B. The first straw end 66A can be configured to releasably engage the filter 70, and the second straw end 66B can be configured to releasably engage the lid 26 for fluid flow between the filter 70 and the lid. Straw fluid passages 68 are formed between the passages 34 . Referring to Figures 2 and 7, the straw 62 can be releasably engaged to the filter 70 via a first twist lock connection, and the straw can be releasably engaged to the lid 26 via a second twist lock connection. The straw 62 may include a slot 64 to help form part of the twist lock connection. When the straw 62 is engaged with the filter 70 and lid 26 and the thermal energy storage member 46 is positioned over the straw, the bottle 10 is adapted to thermally condition and filter the consumable beverage 98, and the bottle 10 is adapted to allow fluid passage through the filter 70, through the straw 68. Consumable beverage from cavity 22 is consumed through lid fluid passage 34 and through drinking spout 30. Although the bottle 10 is shown in the figures with the filter positioned either adjacent to the cap or adjacent to the cavity base 22, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that filtering The device can be located anywhere in or on the bottle.

Referring to Figures 5 and 5A, another preferred embodiment of the bottle 10 is disclosed. Thermal energy storage component 46 may be positioned within cavity 22 and may be positioned between filter 70 and cover 26 . The thermal energy storage component 46 can define an aperture 54 adapted to form a thermal energy storage component fluid passage 59 therethrough. The thermal energy storage component 46 has first and second thermal energy storage component ends 52A, 52B. The second thermal energy storage component end 52B may be releasably engaged with the filter 70 . The first thermal energy storage component end 52A is detachably engageable with the cover 26 such that the thermal energy storage component fluid channel 59 forms a conduit between the filter 70 and the cover fluid channel 34 . When the thermal energy storage component 46 is engaged with the filter 70 and the cap 26, the bottle 10 is preferably adapted to thermally condition and filter the consumable beverage 98, and the bottle is adapted to allow passage through the filter 70, through the thermal energy storage component fluid passage 59, through the cap The consumable beverage 98 from the cavity 22 is consumed through the fluid passage 34 and through the drinking spout 30 .

Referring to Figures 8 and 9, another preferred embodiment of the bottle 10 is illustrated. The filter 70 can be positioned in the cavity 22 adjacent to the cavity base 24 . The thermal energy storage component 46 is disposed in the cavity and can be positioned between the filter 70 and the cover 26 . Thermal energy storage component 46 may engage cover 26 and with filter 70 .

A suction tube 62 can be located in the cavity 22 and spaced from the thermal energy storage component 46 . The straw 62 has first and second straw ends 66A, 66B. The first straw end 66A is engageable with the filter 70 and the second straw end 66B is engageable with the lid 26 to form a straw fluid passage 68 between the filter 70 and the lid fluid passage 34 . It is preferred that the suction tube 62 and the thermal energy storage member 46 are substantially parallel and that both are connected to one side of the filter 70 . The filter 70 preferably has a first filter end 84A positioned on one side 84 of the filter 70 and a second filter end 84B positioned adjacent the base 26 of the cavity 22 so that liquid introduced through the filter 70/ Consumable beverage 98 is removed from cavity 22 near cavity base 26 . The filter 70 may include a straw connector 90 and a thermal energy storage component connector 92 formed by a snap fit connection or the like. When the straw is engaged with the filter 70 and the lid 26 and the thermal energy storage member 46 is engaged with the filter 70 and the lid 26, the bottle 10 is adapted to thermally condition and filter the consumable beverage 98, and the bottle 10 is adapted to allow passage through the filter 70, through the The straw fluid passage 68 , through the lid fluid passage 34 and through the drinking spout 30 consumes the consumable beverage 98 from the cavity 22 .

Referring to Figures 10-13, another preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Filter 70 is preferably located in cavity 22 adjacent to lid 26 and includes a filter cartridge 88 and a filter housing 86 . The filter cartridge 88 is engageable with the lid 26 and the filter housing 86 is engaged with the filter cartridge via a snap fit connection or the like.

Referring to Figure 12, the flow 108 of the consumable beverage 98 through the axial flow filter is shown by the arrowed lines. Filter cartridge 88 has first and second cartridge ends and a cartridge sidewall (extending along the outer surface of the cartridge between the first and second cartridge ends). A first cartridge end (on which the cap connector 94 is located) can be positioned adjacent to the cap fluid passage 34 and a second cartridge end (on which the housing connector 96 is located) can be positioned adjacent to the thermal energy storage component. The filter 70 may be constructed such that the consumable beverage 98 enters the housing 86 adjacent the lid 26, flows substantially along the cartridge sidewall into the second cartridge end, exits the first cartridge end, and flows into the cap fluid Channel 34.

Referring to Figure 13, the flow 108 of the consumable beverage through the radial flow filter is shown by the arrowed lines. The filter cartridge has first and second cartridge ends and cartridge sidewalls (similar to those described above). The first cartridge end can be positioned adjacent to the cover fluid passage 34 and the second cartridge end can be positioned adjacent to the thermal energy storage component 46 . The filter is preferably constructed such that the consumable beverage 98 enters the housing 86 adjacent the lid 26, flows into the filter cartridge 88 substantially through the cartridge sidewall, exits the first cartridge end, and flows into the cap fluid passage 34 middle.

Referring again to FIGS. 10-13 , the thermal energy storage component 46 is preferably located in the cavity 22 and is positioned on the filter housing 86 . The bottle 10 can be adapted to thermally condition and filter the consumable beverage 98 , and the bottle 10 can be adapted to allow consumption of the consumable beverage 98 from the cavity 22 through the filter 70 , through the cap fluid passage 34 and through the drinking spout 30 .

The invention also relates to a kit comprising any combination of the components shown in FIGS. 2 , 4 , 6 , 7 , 9 and 13 . Referring to Figure 4, if additional cooling is desired and filtering of the consumable beverage is not desired, the second thermal energy storage component 100 may be configured as an alternative to a filter. The second thermal energy storage component 100 may form a fluid channel 102 and may include a tube portion 104 and a protrusion 106 to form part of a twist lock or other suitable connection. It is preferred that the second thermal energy storage component 100 has substantially the same outer shape as the filter 70 to allow the bottle 10 to have substantially the same aesthetic appearance regardless of whether the filter 70 or the second thermal energy storage component 100 is used.

A preferred embodiment of a custom bottle according to the invention is described below. Those of ordinary skill in the art, in light of this disclosure, will appreciate that the substantially similar steps and substantially similar structural components of the bottle 10 described below should: be of substantially similar construction, substantially include similar alternative constructions, and be substantially similar to those described above. operation, unless otherwise stated. The steps of the method of the invention may be performed in any order, interchanged with other steps, or omitted, without departing from the scope of the invention.

A preferred method of the present invention involves providing a customizable bottle 10 suitable for thermal conditioning and filtering of water. The method includes providing a container 10 configured to hold a consumable beverage 98 . A cap is provided that can be detachably fastened to the bottle to cover the outlet. A filter is located in the cavity. A thermal energy storage component is located in the cavity between the filter and the cover. Thermal energy storage component 46 includes a plurality of thermal energy storage elements 58 assembled in a side-by-side fashion to extend between side 84 of filter 70 and cover 26 . The thermal energy storage elements 58 can be adjusted in at least one of an angular orientation relative to the straw and a side-by-side positioning relative to each other to customize the appearance of the bottle 10 . Elements 58 are preferably each provided with at least one of a color, marking, image, and textured surface to allow a customized appearance for the bottle depending on the positioning of thermal energy storage element 58 .

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made to the above-described embodiments of the invention without departing from the general inventive concept of the invention. For example, any connection between the aforementioned components could be combined with a twist lock connection, friction fit, snap fit, ball and detent groove, interlock, magnetic connection, threaded connection, or any other connection without departing from the scope of the present invention. Interchange with any of the other suitable connections. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims and drawings.

Claims (21)

1. A bottle suitable for thermal regulation and filtration of consumable beverages, comprising: a container configured to receive a consumable beverage, the container defining an outlet and a cavity configured to receive the consumable beverage; a cap releasably secured to the bottle to cover the outlet, the cap defining a cap fluid channel; a drinking spout located on the lid and configured to facilitate consumption of a consumable beverage from the container, the lid fluid passage being configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout; a filter located in said cavity; a thermal energy storage member disposed in the cavity and between the filter and the cover, the thermal energy storage member defining an aperture therethrough configured to receive therein straw; The straw has first and second straw ends, the first straw end is configured to detachably engage the filter, and the second straw end is configured to detachably engage the filter. engages the lid in a manner to form a straw fluid passage between the filter and the lid fluid passage; wherein said bottle is adapted to thermally condition and filter said consumable beverage when said straw is engaged with said filter and said lid and said thermal energy storage member is located on said straw, and said bottle is adapted to The consumable beverage is allowed to be consumed from the cavity and through the filter, through the straw fluid passage, through the lid fluid passage and through the drinking spout. 2. The bottle of claim 1, further comprising said thermal energy storage member having a longitudinal axis, said apertures being substantially aligned along said longitudinal axis. 3. The bottle of claim 2, further comprising a substantially tapered thermal energy storage member with first and second thermal energy storage member ends, the second thermal energy storage member end being larger than the first and configured to be substantially proximate to an area of one side of the filter, the first thermal energy storage member end is positioned adjacent to the cover, and the second thermal energy storage end is adjacent to the one side of the filter side positioning. 4. The bottle of claim 3, wherein the straw is detachably engaged to the filter via a first twist lock connection and the straw is detachably engaged via a second twist lock connection to the lid. 5. The bottle of claim 4, wherein said filter includes first and second filter ends, said first filter end being located on said side of said filter, said second Two filter ends are positioned adjacent the base of the cavity such that liquid introduced through the filter defines a filter path substantially axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the thermal energy storage component. 6. The bottle of claim 2, wherein the thermal energy storage member comprises a plurality of thermal energy storage elements assembled in a side-by-side manner to extend between one side of the filter and the lid, the thermal energy storage The elements are adjustable in at least one of angular orientation relative to the straw and side-by-side positioning relative to each other. 7. A bottle suitable for thermal regulation and filtration of a consumable beverage comprising: a container configured to receive a consumable beverage, the container defining an outlet and a cavity configured to receive the consumable beverage; a cap releasably secured to the container to cover the outlet, the cap defining a cap fluid channel; a drinking spout located on the lid and configured to facilitate consumption of the consumable beverage from the container, the lid fluid passage being configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout; a filter located in said cavity; a thermal energy storage member disposed in the cavity and between the filter and the cover, the thermal energy storage member defining an aperture therethrough adapted to form a thermal energy storage member a fluid channel; the thermal energy storage component has first and second thermal energy storage component ends, the second thermal energy storage component end removably engageable with the filter, the first thermal energy storage component end a portion detachably engageable with the cover such that the thermal energy storage member fluid passage forms a conduit between the filter and the cover fluid passage; wherein said bottle is adapted to thermally condition and filter said consumable beverage when said thermal energy storage member is engaged with said filter and said cap, and said bottle is adapted to allow consumption from said cavity and through The filter, the fluid passageway through the thermal energy storage member, the fluid passageway through the lid, and the consumable beverage through the drinking spout. 8. The bottle of claim 7, further comprising a thermal energy storage member having a longitudinal axis, said apertures being substantially aligned along said longitudinal axis. 9. The bottle of claim 8, further comprising a substantially tapered thermal energy storage member with first and second thermal energy storage member ends, the second end being larger than the first end and An area configured substantially proximate to a side of the filter, the first thermal energy storage member end positioned adjacent the cover and the second thermal energy storage end positioned adjacent the side of the filter. 10. The bottle of claim 9, wherein the thermal energy storage member is detachably engaged to the filter via a first twist lock connection and the thermal energy storage member is releasably engaged via a second twist lock connection. The detachable way engages to the cover. 11. The bottle of claim 10, wherein said filter comprises first and second filter ends, said first filter end being located on said side of said filter, said second Two filter ends are positioned adjacent the base of the cavity such that liquid introduced through the filter defines a filter path substantially axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the thermal energy storage component. 12. A bottle suitable for thermal regulation and filtration of a consumable beverage comprising: a container configured to receive a consumable beverage, the container defining an outlet and a cavity configured to receive the consumable beverage and having a cavity base; a cap releasably secured to the bottle to cover the outlet, the cap defining a cap fluid channel; a drinking spout located on the lid and configured to facilitate consumption of the consumable beverage from the container, the lid fluid passage being configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout; a filter located in the cavity adjacent to the base of the cavity; a thermal energy storage component disposed in the cavity between the filter and the cover, the thermal storage component engaging the cover and the filter; a straw positioned in the cavity and spaced from the thermal energy storage component, the straw having first and second straw ends, the first straw end engaging the filter and the second straw end an end engaged with the cap to form a straw fluid channel between the filter and the cap fluid channel; wherein said bottle is adapted to thermally condition and filter said consumable beverage when said straw is engaged with said filter and said lid and said thermal energy storage member is engaged with said filter and said lid, and The bottle is adapted to allow consumption of the consumable beverage from the cavity and through the filter, through the straw fluid passage, through the lid fluid passage and through the drinking spout. 13. The bottle of claim 12, wherein the straw and the thermal energy storage member are substantially parallel and both are connected to one side of the filter, the filter further comprising first and A second filter end, said first filter end being located on said side of said filter, said second filter end being positioned adjacent to the base of said cavity so as to introduce The liquid is removed from the cavity near the base of the cavity. 14. A bottle suitable for thermal regulation and filtration of a consumable beverage comprising: a container configured to receive a consumable beverage, the container defining an outlet and a cavity configured to receive the consumable beverage and having a cavity base; a cap releasably secured to the bottle to cover the outlet, the cap defining a cap fluid channel; a drinking spout located on the lid and configured to facilitate consumption of the consumable beverage from the container, the lid fluid passage being configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout; a filter in the cavity adjacent to the cover, the filter comprising a filter cartridge and a filter housing, the filter cartridge engaged with the cover and the filter housing engaged with the filter Filter Cartridge Engagement; a thermal energy storage component located in the cavity and positioned on the filter housing; Wherein said bottle is adapted to thermally condition and filter said consumable beverage, and said bottle is adapted to allow consumption of fluid from said cavity through said filter, through said cap fluid passage and through said drinking spout The consumable beverage. 15. The bottle of claim 14, wherein the filter cartridge is an axial flow filter having first and second cartridge ends and cartridge sidewalls, the first cartridge end Positioned adjacent to the lid fluid passage and the second cartridge end positioned adjacent to the thermal energy storage component, the filter is configured such that a consumable beverage enters the housing adjacent the lid, substantially along the A cartridge sidewall flows into the second cartridge end, flows out of the first cartridge end, and flows into the cap fluid passage. 16. The bottle of claim 14, wherein the filter cartridge is a radial flow filter having first and second cartridge ends and cartridge sidewalls, the first cartridge end Positioned adjacent to the lid fluid passage and the second cartridge end is positioned adjacent to the thermal energy storage component, the filter is configured such that a consumable beverage enters the housing adjacent the lid, substantially through the filter A cartridge sidewall flows into the filter cartridge, exits the first cartridge end, and flows into the cap fluid passage. 17. A method of providing a customizable bottle adapted to heat regulate and filter water comprising the steps of: providing a container configured to contain a consumable beverage, the container defining an outlet and a cavity configured to contain the consumable beverage; A cap is provided that is detachably fastened to the bottle to cover the outlet, the cap defines a cap fluid passage, a drinking spout is included on the cap and the drinking spout is configured to facilitate consumption from the said consumable beverage of a container, said lid fluid passage configured to guide consumable beverage through said lid to said drinking spout; arranging a filter in said cavity; In the cavity and between the filter and the cover is positioned a thermal energy storage member, the thermal energy storage member defining an aperture through the thermal energy storage member configured to pass through the aperture A straw is received in the center, wherein the thermal energy storage component includes a plurality of thermal energy storage elements assembled in a side-by-side manner to extend between one side of the filter and the cover, the thermal energy storage elements being at a position relative to the straw are adjustable in at least one of angular orientation and side-by-side positioning relative to each other; and inserting a straw through the aperture of the thermal energy storage component and securing the straw to the filter and the lid, wherein when the straw engages the filter and the lid and the thermal energy The bottle is adapted to thermally regulate and filter the consumable beverage when the storage means is located on the straw. 18. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of positioning a thermal energy storage component further comprises providing each of the plurality of thermal energy storage elements with at least one of a color, a logo, an image, and a textured surface to Allows for a customizable appearance for the bottle depending on the arrangement of the thermal energy storage element on the straw. 19. A kit for a consumable beverage comprising: a container configured to receive a consumable beverage, the container defining an outlet and a cavity configured to receive the consumable beverage; a cap releasably secured to the bottle to cover the outlet, the cap defining a cap fluid channel; a drinking spout located on the lid and configured to facilitate consumption of a consumable beverage from the container, the lid fluid passage being configured to guide the consumable beverage through the lid to the drinking spout; a filter adapted to be positioned in the cavity; a thermal energy storage member disposed in the cavity and between the filter and the cover, the thermal energy storage member defining an aperture therethrough configured to pass through the thermal energy storage member The hole receives the straw; The straw has first and second straw ends, the first straw end configured to detachably engage the filter and the second straw end configured to detachably engage the lid to form a straw fluid passage between the filter and the lid fluid passage, wherein when the straw is engaged with the filter and the lid and the thermal energy storage component is located on the straw , the bottle is adapted to thermally condition and filter the consumable beverage, and the bottle is adapted to allow consumption from the cavity and through the filter, through the straw fluid passage, through the lid fluid passage and said consumable beverage through said drinking spout; and A second thermal energy storage component configured to replace the filter if additional cooling is desired and filtering of the consumable beverage is not desired. 20. The kit of claim 19, wherein the second thermal energy storage component has substantially the same outer shape as the filter to allow the bottle to have substantially the same aesthetic It is irrelevant whether the filter or the second thermal energy storage component. 21. The kit of claim 20, wherein the thermal energy storage component comprises a plurality of thermal energy storage elements assembled in a side-by-side manner to extend between one side of the filter and the cover, the thermal energy storage The elements are adjustable in at least one of angular orientation relative to the straw and side-by-side positioning relative to each other.

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