REUSABLE FOOD OR BEVERAGE CONTAINER SANITIZING SYSTEM

A reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system and method of operation automates the identification and sanitizing of reusable food or beverage containers. A reusable food or beverage container has an identification device associated therewith. The reusable food or beverage container is associated to a customer order and used to supply a food or beverage to the customer. The system utilizes a UV sanitizing system to prevent the spread of harmful germs on the reusable food or beverage container. The doors of a pass-through UV sanitizing system allow the customer to insert an unsanitized container on the entry (“unsanitized”) side of the system, and the retail employee to remove the sanitized container from the exit (“sanitized”) side of the system without having to tough any other surface (doors, knobs, handles, etc.) than the container itself.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system that automates the process of identifying and sanitizing reusable food or beverage containers. In particular, the present invention relates to a reusable food or beverage container, an ultraviolet (UV) sanitizing subsystem, and an identification subsystem, which operate in combination with the reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system.

BACKGROUND

With the rapid expansion and size of the to-go food or beverage industry, for example by global businesses including national and international coffee and fast-food chain restaurants, the disposal of single-use drinking containers, especially containers made with plastics, has become a serious problem. This issue is becoming more than just an environmental or public relations issue for businesses as municipalities have begun to impose taxes on the use of single-use drinking containers. Solutions have been proposed and attempted by manufacturing cups with more environmentally-friendly materials, such as more readily recycled or composted materials. However, the required materials and manufacturing methods have not proven cost-effective as a replacement for existing, commonly used single-use drinking containers. It has also been proven to be difficult to emulate existing desired performance and features using alternate materials.

Systems to provide a means of using reusable drinking containers in place of single-use containers for to-go use have also been proposed and attempted. Such systems are typically comprised of a stock of durable reusable containers which require a deposit from the customer to use for their beverage. When the customer returns the drinking container, the deposit is returned to them. Such systems are typically easy for a customer but increase the labor and required equipment for the retailer to handle and wash the used drinking containers before they can be used again. Such increases have made it a challenge for existing retailers to overcome the cost and infrastructure change of implementing the use of such systems.

Coffee shops, cafes, and other retail establishments that serve beverages often allow customers to bring in their own reusable coffee cups or travel mugs. This trend has a positive impact on reducing the total number of single-use or reusable cups used. Unfortunately, proper cleaning and sanitizing of these reusable cups such that they are safe to be handled and filled by retail employees requires extensive resources. Additionally, the time and effort required to properly clean and sanitize the cups often prevent users from choosing to bring their own reusable containers. Incentives, such as discounts on drinks, are often used to encourage customers to bring their own reusable cups. However, these incentives are often not enough to overcome the perceived inconvenience by customers, such as not being able to order prior to arrival or making use of automatic payments using a mobile application.

SUMMARY

There is a need for a system for managing the use of multi-use or reusable food or beverage containers that is simple and easy to use for both the customer and the retailer. The present invention provides a system for the use of reusable food or beverage containers, such as for the to-go industry, that closely matches the existing behavior of the customer and retailer such that it can easily be deployed at existing retailers worldwide. An identification subsystem identifies the customer's reusable food or beverage container and the system associates the customer's order to that reusable container. The reusable container is sanitized by the UV sanitizing subsystem such that the reusable container can safely be handled by the retailer employees without concern for the spread of germs. The container is then filled with the food or beverage ordered and returned to the customer.

In accordance with example embodiments of the present invention, a reusable food or beverage sanitizing system is provided. The reusable food or beverage sanitizing system includes a reusable food or beverage container, and identification subsystem, an order information device, and a UV sanitizing subsystem. The identification subsystem includes an identification device associated with the reusable food or beverage container, at least one reader that communicates with the identification device and exchanges container data that characterizes the identification device and associated reusable food or beverage container, and a computing device in communication with a data store storing information relating a food or beverage order to be fulfilled in the reusable food or beverage container. The UV sanitizing subsystem includes a housing sized, dimensioned, and configured to envelop a reusable food or beverage container and at least one UV light source configured to direct UV light at a predetermined intensity level and time duration onto a reusable food or beverage container in such a way as to result in sanitizing of surfaces of the reusable food or beverage container. The UV sanitizing subsystem receives an unsanitized reusable food or beverage container. The UV sanitizing subsystem sanitizes the received reusable food or beverage container prior to the food or beverage order being fulfilled in the reusable food or beverage container. The food or beverage order is fulfilled in the sanitized reusable food or beverage container according to information provided by the order information device in communication with the data store.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the at least one reader is disposed to read the identification device prior to placing the reusable food or beverage container into the UV sanitizing subsystem. The identification device can be incorporated on or embedded within the reusable beverage container. An instance of the at least one reader can be disposed to read the identification device of the reusable food or beverage container when placed into the UV sanitizing subsystem. An instance of the at least one reader can be disposed to read the identification device of the reusable food or beverage container prior to returning the filled container to the customer. The identification device can be comprised of one or more of a bar code, a quick response (QR) code, a near-field communication (NFC) chip, or a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the order information device can be a receipt or label printer. In accordance with aspects of the invention, the order information device can be a display screen.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, an access door can provide access to the UV sanitizing subsystem when the access door is in an open state and block access to the UV sanitizing subsystem when the access door is in a closed state. When the access door is in the closed state, a UV sanitization cycle can be initiated using the UV light source and when the UV sanitization cycle is complete, the access door is moved to an open state. A retrieval door can be located opposite the access door to provide access to the UV sanitizing subsystem when the retrieval door is in an open state and block access to the UV sanitizing subsystem when the retrieval door is in a closed state. The access door can be configured to receive an unsanitized reusable food or beverage container and the retrieval door can be configured to allow retrieval of a sanitized reusable food or beverage container after the UV sanitization cycle. A conveyor can be configured to receive an unsanitized reusable food or beverage container, move the unsanitized reusable food or beverage container in the UV sanitizing subsystem through the access door, and move the sanitized reusable food or beverage container out of the UV sanitizing subsystem through the retrieval door. The conveyor can be comprised of a conveyor belt.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, a container centering device can be disposed within the UV sanitizing subsystem. The container centering device can be comprised of at least one mechanical arm.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the at least one UV light source can be comprised of an array of UV lights. The array of UV light can be disposed on an inner surface of one or more sides of the UV sanitizing subsystem. The at least one UV light source can be disposed on a container profiler that is configured to conform to a shape of the reusable food or beverage container to place the at least one UV light source in proximity to an outer surface of the reusable food or beverage container allowing for effective sanitization at a lower intensity level or time duration. The profiler can be comprised of one or more members having at least one UV light source mounted thereon, the members configured to move toward an outer surface of the reusable food or beverage container to place the UV light in proximity to the outer surface of the reusable food or beverage container. The container profiler can be comprised of a plurality of linear moving members. The container profiler can be comprised of articulating members. The profiler can be comprised of one or more sensors for detecting a shape of the reusable food or beverage container. The container profiler can be configured to rotate around the container to distribute application of UV light.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the UV sanitizing subsystem can include a rotating base for rotating the reusable food or beverage container within the UV sanitizing subsystem.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the at least one UV light source can be disposed on an arm that extends into an internal volume of the reusable food or beverage container to sanitize an interior surface of the container. The arm can be configured to place the UV light source in proximity to the interior surface of the reusable food or beverage container allowing for effective sanitization at a lower intensity level or time duration. The arm can be configured to rotate within the internal volume of the container to distribute the application of UV light.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the housing can rotate around the UV sanitizing subsystem and wherein the access door connected to the housing receives unsanitized reusable food or beverage container in a first position located on a first side of the UV sanitizing subsystem and rotates to a second position located on second side of the UV sanitizing subsystem to provide access to a sanitized reusable food or beverage container.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, sliding members of the housing can rotate around the UV sanitizing subsystem and wherein the sliding members provide an access door that receives unsanitized reusable food or beverage container in a first position located on a first side of the UV sanitizing subsystem and rotate to a second position located on second side of the UV sanitizing subsystem to provide access to a sanitized reusable food or beverage container.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the housing includes a cleansing device.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, a second UV sanitizing subsystem can be located inside the housing that is sized, dimensioned, and configured to envelop a reusable food or beverage container. A second access door can provide access to the second UV sanitizing subsystem when the second access door is in an open state, and block access to the second UV sanitizing subsystem when the second access door is in a closed state. At least one UV light source can be disposed within the second UV sanitizing subsystem and configured to direct UV light at a predetermined intensity level and time duration onto the reusable food or beverage container positioned inside the second UV sanitizing subsystem in such a way as to result in sanitizing of surfaces of the reusable food or beverage container. When the second access door is in the closed state a UV sanitization cycle can be initiated using the UV light source and when the UV sanitization cycle is complete, the second access door can be moved to the open state. The second UV sanitizing subsystem can be configured to operate in an opposite direction of the UV sanitizing subsystem.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the access door can be locked during the sanitization cycle and unlocked after the sanitization cycle. The access door can automatically transition between the closed and open states.

In accordance with example embodiments of the present invention, a method of enabling the use of reusable food or beverage containers using a reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system is provided, a method of enabling the use of reusable food or beverage containers using a reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system includes providing a reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system comprising a reusable food or beverage container, an identification subsystem with at least one reader, an order information device, and a UV sanitizing subsystem. The reusable food or beverage container includes an associated identification device readable by the at least one reader. The system receives a customer order and reads the identification device associated to the customer's reusable food or beverage container such that the system associates the customer order to that reusable food or beverage container. The customer places the reusable food or beverage container into the UV sanitizing subsystem which sanitizing the reusable food or beverage container. The retail employee retrieves the sanitized reusable food or beverage container from the UV sanitizing subsystem and fulfills the customer order in the sanitized reusable food or beverage container according to information provided by the order information device. The customer retrieves the fulfilled order in the reusable food or beverage container from a customer pickup location.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the method for associating the reusable food or beverage container identification device with the customer order can occur in a computer executed data store using one or more computing devices to create a data association between the reusable beverage container identification device and the customer order. The one or more computing devices can be located on premise with the system, or remotely in a cloud supported network environment.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the method can further include the identification device associated with the reusable food or beverage container that has been previously associated with a customer account and saved in the data store. A customer order can be automatically associated with the identification device of a reusable food or beverage container according to information previously saved in the data store. The identification device can be disposed on or embedded within the reusable food or beverage container. The reader can be disposed within the UV sanitization device such that the identification device of the reusable food or beverage container can be read when the container is placed into the UV sanitizing subsystem and the associated order information is sent to the order information device. The reader can be disposed within the UV sanitization device such that the identification device of the reusable food or beverage container can be read when the container is placed into the UV sanitizing subsystem and an order previously saved in the data store is automatically placed and the associated order information is sent to the order information device.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the method can include the reader or other sensor disposed within the UV sanitization device to detect the presence of the reusable food or beverage container and automatically close the access door, run the UV sanitization cycle, and open the retrieval door once the UV sanitization cycle is complete.

In accordance with aspects of the present invention, the method can include a notification to the customer when their order is ready to be retrieved from the customer pickup location. A reader can be used to read the identification device on or embedded within the filled reusable food or beverage container such that the system can notify the customer that their order is ready to be retrieved from the customer pickup location.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An illustrative embodiment of the present invention relates to a reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system that automates the process of identifying and sanitizing reusable food or beverage containers. The system provides a simple, efficient, and easy to use method for the implementation of the reusable food or beverage containers to replace the current prevalent use of wasteful and environmentally harmful single-use cups and take-out food containers that require recycling or disposal.

FIGS.1through14, wherein like parts are designated by like reference numerals throughout, illustrate an example embodiment or embodiments of a reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system, according to the present invention. Although the present invention will be described with reference to the example embodiment or embodiments illustrated in the figures, it should be understood that many alternative forms can embody the present invention. One of skill in the art will additionally appreciate different ways to alter the parameters of the embodiment(s) disclosed, such as the size, shape, or type of elements or materials, in a manner still in keeping with the spirit and scope of the present invention.

FIG.1shows a diagrammatic illustration of a reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system100in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. The example reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system100depicted in the figures uses a reusable beverage container108for the description and figures merely for purposes of teaching how the invention can be specifically implemented. However, those of skill in the art will readily appreciate that other reusable food or beverage containers can be implemented in the system100described herein with modification to some of the components for the specific size, shape, and configuration of the containers, such that the present invention is intended to be universally applicable and operable for a variety of different food or beverage container configurations and is not limited to the specific reusable beverage container shown and described. It should also be appreciated that for purposes of efficiency, the references herein to a reusable beverage container and corresponding system are fully applicable to all possible food or beverage containers and corresponding systems. For the avoidance of doubt, references to the reusable beverage container and corresponding system herein are transferable to other food or beverage containers, such as but not limited to, pizza boxes, Asian food takeout containers, donut boxes, pastry boxes, to-go restaurant food containers, coffee cups, iced coffee cups, hot chocolate cups, water bottles, other disposable beverage containers, and the like, which are considered to all fall within the scope of the present inventive system.

Continuing with the example system100, a housing102can contain a number of subsystems including an access door106for receiving a reusable beverage container108and a UV sanitizing subsystem112disposed therein. The UV sanitizing subsystem112contains at least one UV light source120, which uses UV-C(or other wavelength) to sanitize items during a UV sanitization cycle. At least one reader128that communicates with an identification device126associated to the reusable beverage container108, and exchanges data that characterizes the identification device126and associated reusable beverage container108. A computing device136in communication with a data store138, such as a database or other form of data storage and organization, is a portion of an identification subsystem160that also includes the identification device126, the at least one reader128, and a communication network162that enables communication between the components of the identification subsystem160and sharing of data. The communication network162can be a local area network, a wide area network, wired, wireless, cloud-based, or any other network or data sharing construct understood by those of skill in the art. The computing device136can be on premise at the same location as, e.g., the housing102, or remote in a network, cloud supported, wireless, or wired. Those of skill in the art will additionally appreciate that the location of each subsystem as depicted and described herein can vary such that subsystems may be combined, integrate, and/or distal, separated, in different combinations and still perform the stated functionality and operation described herein, all of which combinations are anticipated to fall within the scope of the present invention. The specific hardware and device arrangements described herein are merely representative of one example implementation of the inventive system and method and are therefore not intended to be limiting.

Continuing withFIG.1illustrating the housing102that can contain a number of subsystems. As one of skill in the art would appreciate, various configurations of subsystems can be implemented keeping with the spirit and scope of the present invention, including having those subsystems contained inside the housing102or separated therefrom. In accordance with one exemplary illustrative embodiment, the reusable food or beverage container sanitizing system100has an access door106or the like of any operable configuration. The access door106is sized, dimensioned, and configured to receive a reusable beverage container108. In the example illustration, the reusable beverage container108is a conventional reusable coffee beverage cup and as such has dimensions that can vary but are generally about 2.25 inches to 2.5 inches for the small diameter, about 3 inches to 3.75 inches for the large diameter, and between about 3.25 inches to about 8 inches of height, for containers that range from, e.g., 6 oz to 22 oz of volume. Those of skill in the art will appreciate these dimensions are approximate and are intended to describe the approximate size and shape of conventional coffee cups, or the like, which conventionally fit in conventional automobile cupholders, and can be found in numerous coffee retail stores. As such, the access door106and UV sanitizing subsystem112must be at least slightly larger than the maximum dimensions of the aforementioned cups (e.g., for the above example dimensions, the access door106has an opening of about 5 inches wide by 10 inches high to accommodate the largest cup measurements). The access door106can automatically slide open, or flap shut like a one-way valve, or have another configuration readily apparent to those of skill in the art. In another embodiment, the access door106and UV sanitizing subsystem112are sized to accept a reusable beverage container108and attached corresponding lid. In another embodiment, the access door106and UV sanitizing subsystem112are sized to accept both a reusable beverage container108and a separated corresponding lid. In yet another embodiment, the access door106and UV sanitizing subsystem112are sized to accept more than one reusable beverage container108and/or lid simultaneously. Furthermore, those of skill in the art will appreciate the dimensional attributes are provided for enablement purposes only as it relates to a system for use with a coffee beverage container or the like and can be altered or varied to accommodate different containers of different dimensions for different purposes, and are therefore not limiting of the system-wide invention.

After a customer places an order for a beverage to be fulfilled in the customer's reusable beverage container108, such as in person at the point-of-sale register or a self-serve kiosk, or remotely orders via mobile application, online ordering, and the like, the identification device126to be associated to the desired reusable beverage container108is read by a reader128of the identification subsystem160to associate the customer's order to the reusable beverage container108in which that order is to be fulfilled. In an embodiment of the invention, the identification device126is an optical identifier, such as a barcode, quick response (QR) code, optical symbol or character recognition, and the like. In another embodiment, the identification device126is a transmission protocol identifier, such as a near-field communication (NFC) chip, radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, and the like. In an embodiment, the optical or transmission protocol identifier that is the identification device126is on or embedded in a possession of the customer, such as a loyalty card, key fob, mobile phone, and the like. In another embodiment, the optical or transmission protocol identifier that is the identification device126is on or embedded within the reusable beverage container108itself. In yet another embodiment, the identification device126is biometric, such as a fingerprint or facial recognition of the customer. In still a further embodiment, the identification device126is manually entered customer information, such as manually typing in the customer's name, loyalty number, credit card information, and the like, into the point-of-sale register, self-serve kiosk, or mobile or online ordering device.

In an embodiment of the invention, the reader128, such as a scanner, camera, NFC reader, and the like, is located at the point-of-sale register or kiosk. In another embodiment, the reader128is a feature of the customer's mobile phone, such as the camera, NFC reader, and the like. In a further embodiment, the reader128is integral to the housing102. Depending on the desired configuration, the reader128can be in communication with a processor and/or local or remote computing system via wired or wireless network connectivity, such as the computing device136of the identification subsystem160, and the like, as would be readily appreciated by those of skill in the art.

In an embodiment of the invention, the identification subsystem160can include a camera to capture a photograph of the reusable beverage container108to be saved with other identification information of the reusable beverage container108in the data store138.

Once an association has been created in the system100between a customer and the identification device126of a reusable beverage container108, that link can be saved in the data store138such that a new association does not need to be established for subsequent orders using that particular reusable beverage container108. As such, when an order is placed by a customer, which can be identified by a name, customer account, member number, phone number, loyalty card, signed into an application for ordering on a mobile device, fingerprint reader, facial recognition, and the like, the established association between the customer's order and their reusable beverage container108is automatically created without having to newly create the association between the identification device126and the reusable beverage container108as previously described. If the customer has more than one reusable beverage container108associated with them, they can select which associated reusable beverage container108, will be used for that order, such as by selecting a photograph of the desired reusable beverage container108at the point-of-sale register, kiosk, on the mobile application or online order, or at the UV sanitizing subsystem112. In a similar fashion, if the customer orders multiple beverages to be fulfilled in more than one reusable beverage container108, they can select which order is to be fulfilled in which known reusable beverage container108as previously described. Additionally, if only a portion of an order for multiple beverages is to be fulfilled in a known reusable beverage container108, the customer can choose to create a new association for an unknown reusable beverage container108for other portions of the order and/or have other portions of the order filled in traditional single use cups or other options available by the retailer.

As many customers place the same order every time, the customer can choose to have that particular order associated with one or more reusable beverage container108. This association can allow the customer to skip the ordering process completely as the saved order, as well as required payment if desired, can be placed automatically when the identification device126of the reusable beverage container108is identified by a reader128of the identification subsystem160of the system100. Additional incentives for customers using the system100can be implemented, such as discounts, loyalty rewards, order prioritization, and the like, to encourage the increased use of reusable beverage containers108.

Once a reader128of the identification subsystem160has identified the identification device126of the reusable beverage container108, the information for the corresponding order to be fulfilled in that particular reusable beverage container108can be output by the order information device130. The order information device130provides information to allow the retail employee to properly fulfill the order for a particular reusable beverage container108, such as the details of the order itself, description, photograph, or other identifying information of the reusable beverage container108, customer's name, and the like, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art. In an embodiment shown inFIG.1, the order information device130is a receipt or label printer configured to print order details on a receipt or label132that is to accompany the reusable beverage container108after it has been removed from the UV sanitizing subsystem112. In another embodiment, the receipt or label printer is integral to the housing102. In another embodiment, at least a portion of the receipt or label132is removably self-adhesive such that it may temporarily adhere to the reusable beverage container108. In a further embodiment, the order information device130is a display integral to the housing102. In another embodiment, the order information device130is a remote display or displays at other locations within the retail location. In another embodiment, the order information device130temporarily labels the reusable beverage container108, such as printing on the outer surface of the reusable beverage container108using washable ink and the like. In all embodiments, the order information device130can be in communication with a processor and/or local or remote computing system via wired or wireless network connectivity, such as the computing device136of the system100, or the like, as would be readily appreciated by those of skill in the art. It should also be appreciated by one of skill in the art that more than one type of order information device130may be used simultaneously in keeping with the spirit and scope of the invention.

The reader128as shown inFIG.1is remotely located outside of the housing102and in communication with the system100via the communication network162. In another embodiment, the identification subsystem160may contain one or more reader128. The one or more reader128can be integral to the housing102or remotely located as previously described. The one or more reader128can be configured and located to identify an identification device126on or embedded within a reusable beverage container108prior to entering the UV sanitizing subsystem112, when the reusable beverage container108is placed into the UV sanitizing subsystem112, when the reusable beverage container108is removed from the UV sanitizing subsystem112, or any combination of such. In addition to identifying the identification device126of the reusable beverage container108to have the order information device130output details of the corresponding order, the identification subsystem160can be used to trigger other automated processes of the system100. In an embodiment of the system, identifying the identification device126of the reusable beverage container108prior to entering the UV sanitizing subsystem112can unlock or automatically open the access door106to the UV sanitizing subsystem112or otherwise allow the identified reusable beverage container108to be entered into the UV sanitizing subsystem112. In another embodiment of the system100, identifying when the reusable beverage container108has been placed into the UV sanitizing subsystem112can trigger the start of the UV sanitization cycle, such as closing the access door106, turning on the one or more UV light source120for a determined amount of time, and opening the access door106when complete. In yet another embodiment, identifying when the sanitized reusable beverage container108is removed from the UV sanitizing subsystem112can trigger the system to return to the state such that the system is ready to accept the next unsanitized reusable beverage container108. It should be recognized by one of skill in the art that other means to identify the presence or removal of a reusable beverage container108, such as proximity sensors, ultrasonics sensors, vision systems, and the like, may be used to trigger other automated processes of the system as previously described.

After the customer has placed their reusable beverage container108into the UV sanitizing subsystem112and the UV sanitization cycle has been completed, the sanitized reusable beverage container108is removed from the UV sanitizing subsystem112by the retail employee. In an embodiment of the invention, the retail employee can use an additional cleansing device, such as a countertop glass rinser, to clean residue from the interior surfaces of the reusable beverage container108. In another embodiment, such an additional cleansing device can be used by the customer prior to placing the reusable beverage container108into the UV sanitizing subsystem112. In yet another embodiment, the additional cleansing device is within the housing102such that the UV sanitization cycle and additional cleansing take place within the housing either concurrently or in succession.

After retrieving the sanitized reusable beverage container108, the retail employee fulfills the order into that reusable beverage container108according to information provided by the order information device130. Once the order is fulfilled, the retail employee returns the filled reusable beverage container108to the customer. In an embodiment of the invention, the retail employee places the filled reusable beverage container108into a UV sanitizing subsystem112of the system100to be sanitized and subsequently retrieved by the customer as to prevent the spread of germs from the retail employee to the customer. In a further embodiment, a reader128integral to or in close proximity to the housing102identifies the identification device126on or embedded within the reusable beverage container108placed into the UV sanitizing subsystem112such that the system100can notify the customer that their order is ready to be retrieved. Such notification can be an audio alert (e.g. customer's name called out via a speaker system), a visual alert (e.g. customer's name displayed on a video screen), a text message, phone call, mobile application notification, and the like, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art. In another embodiment, the filled reusable beverage container108is not placed into a UV sanitizing subsystem and is instead placed directly at a customer pick-up location, such as a pick-up counter. In another embodiment, a reader128of the system detects the identification device126on or embedded within the reusable beverage container108either immediately prior to or when the reusable beverage container108is placed at the customer pick-up location such that the system can notify the customer that their order is ready to be retrieved as previously described. In a further embodiment, the pickup location is a specific UV sanitizing subsystem or locker, cubby, shelf, or the like. In an additional embodiment, a reader128is used to verify the customer, such as by NFC of the customer's phone, scanning of a barcode in a mobile application or on a loyalty card, fingerprint reader, facial recognition, or other identification means as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art, to grant access to the pickup location, such as unlocking or opening an access door. In another embodiment, other methods are used to trigger the system100to notify the customer that their order is ready to be retrieved, such as reading information on a label or receipt132that was produced by the order information device130, or otherwise manually updating the status of the order within the system100to indicate the order has been fulfilled. In yet another embodiment, the system100is not used to alert the customer that their order is ready to be retrieved and other manual methods, such as leaving the label or receipt132adhered to or in close proximity to the filled reusable beverage container108, or the retail employee calling out the customer's name or handing the filled reusable beverage container108directly to the customer, are used as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

FIG.2illustrates an embodiment of the UV sanitizing subsystem112with a reader128integral to the housing102to read the identification device126on or embedded within the reusable beverage container108placed into the housing102such that the identification subsystem160(refer toFIG.1), in communication with the data store138of the system100(refer toFIG.1), can create an association between that reusable beverage container108and the order to be fulfilled as previously described. In an embodiment of the invention, the reader128can be used to automatically place an order and/or charge for payment based on information stored in the data store138(refer toFIG.1) for the reusable beverage container108detected as previously described. In another embodiment, detecting the presence of a reusable beverage container108with the reader128can trigger automatic events or processes of the system, such as opening/closing the access door106or starting the UV sanitization cycle as previously described.

The housing102as shown inFIG.2contains an integral visual display, such as an LCD display, LED display, and the like, as the at least one component of the order information device130. Such display can provide information to allow the retail employee to properly fulfill the order for the particular reusable beverage container108, such as the details of the order itself, description, photograph, or other identifying information of the reusable beverage container108, customer's name, and the like, as previously described.

In embodiments of the invention, the reusable beverage container108can be rotated while within the UV sanitizing subsystem112to ensure all surfaces are evenly sanitized. In an embodiment as shown inFIG.2, the UV sanitizing subsystem112can contain a rotating base110. The reusable beverage container108is placed on the rotating base110such that the rotation of the rotating base110will ensure even exposure of the surfaces of the reusable beverage container108to the at least one UV light source120. In another embodiment, the at least one UV light source120is rotated around the reusable beverage container108during the sanitizing process. In yet another embodiment, both the reusable beverage container108and the at least one UV light source120are rotated during the sanitization cycle.

FIGS.3A-3Cillustrates an embodiment of the UV sanitizing subsystem112of a reusable beverage container sanitizing system100(refer toFIG.1) that is comprised of a housing102that has access to the UV sanitizing subsystem112from two sides; the entry (“unsanitized”) having an access door106and exit (“sanitized”) side having a retrieval door104. InFIG.3A, the customer places their reusable beverage container108into the UV sanitizing subsystem112from the “unsanitized” side via the access door106in an open position. InFIG.3Bthe access door106is moved to a closed state and the reusable beverage container108is sanitized within the enclosed UV sanitizing subsystem112during a UV sanitization cycle using at least one UV light source120. In this embodiment, the at least one UV light source120is an array of UV lights disposed on one or more interior surfaces of the UV sanitizing subsystem112. InFIG.3C, after the UV sanitization cycle is complete, the retrieval door104is moved from a closed state to an open state allowing the retail employee to remove the sanitized reusable beverage container108on the “sanitized” side. In some embodiments of the invention, the reusable beverage container108or UV light source120is rotated to evenly distribute UV light to the surface of the reusable beverage container108to be sanitized. In the embodiment as shown inFIGS.3A-3C, a rotating base110is provided to rotate the reusable beverage container108within the UV sanitizing subsystem112providing more thorough exposure to the array of at least one UV light source120on the inner surface of the UV sanitizing subsystem112as previously described.

The retrieval door104can be sized, configured, and controlled similarly to the access door106as previously described. In some embodiments, the access door106, as well as the retrieval door104, to the UV sanitizing subsystem112can be automated to open and close automatically to eliminate the need to touch anything but the reusable beverage container108itself when using the system100(refer toFIG.1). In some embodiments, the automatic opening and closing of the door(s) makes it possible to have a single access door106, such as on the top of the housing102, for both entry and exit, without the risk of spreading germs. In some such embodiments, an identification device126of the reusable beverage container108is read by a reader128of the identification subsystem160(refer toFIG.1) and is used to unlock the access door106or retrieval door104, automatically open the door106,104, or otherwise be used to initiate the UV sanitization cycle of the UV sanitizing subsystem112. In still other embodiments, the opening or closing of the doors106,104or the initiation of a UV sanitization cycle is actuated by a switch, button, motion sensor, or optical sensor. Whether manually or automatically closed, the access door106, as well as the retrieval door104, can lock during the UV sanitization cycle as a safety precaution to prevent inadvertent UV exposure to a user. Conversely, there can be an automatic shut-off of the one or more UV light source120if the access door106or retrieval door104are opened before a UV sanitization cycle is complete.

FIGS.4A-4Cdepict a UV sanitizing subsystem112similar toFIGS.3A-3Cwith the addition of a conveyor116to move the unsanitized reusable beverage container108into the UV sanitizing subsystem112on the “unsanitized” side and then move the sanitized reusable beverage container108out of the UV sanitizing subsystem112on the “sanitized” side. This simplifies the loading and unloading of the UV sanitizing subsystem112, as well as adds the ability to queue additional reusable beverage containers108to be sanitized. InFIG.4A, the customer places their reusable beverage container108onto the conveyor116, in this case, a conveyor belt. The conveyor116then moves the reusable beverage container108into the UV sanitizing subsystem112from the “unsanitized” side via the access door106in an open position. InFIG.4Bthe access door106is moved to a closed state and the reusable beverage container108is sanitized within the enclosed UV sanitizing subsystem112during a UV sanitization cycle using at least one UV light source120. InFIG.4C, after the UV sanitization cycle is complete, the retrieval door104is moved from a closed state to an open state and the conveyor116moves the now sanitized reusable beverage container108out of the UV sanitizing subsystem112through the retrieval door104allowing the retail employee to remove the sanitized reusable beverage container108from the conveyor116on the “sanitized” side.

In some embodiments, container centering devices, such as the pivoting centering mechanical arms114, shown inFIG.5, are utilized to position the reusable beverage container108in the center of the UV sanitizing subsystem112to ensure the even and expected distribution and intensity of UV light on the surfaces.

In one embodiment of the UV sanitizing subsystem112of the current invention shown inFIGS.6A-6C, the at least one UV light source120is disposed on at least one or more articulating members122of a container profiler118that is able to move the members122including the at least one UV light source120close to the outer surface of the reusable beverage container108and, if required, adjust or otherwise conform to approximately match the tapered shape of commonly used reusable beverage containers108. InFIG.6A, the profiler118is set at a starting position before being positioned to conform to the reusable beverage container108. In the embodiment ofFIG.6B, the profiler118has been adjusted to linearly move the members122in proximity to the outer surface of the reusable beverage container108. In certain embodiments, such as seen inFIG.6C, the members122are further capable of moving angularly or otherwise pivoting or tilting to better conform to the profile of the reusable beverage container108.

It should be noted that any of the embodiments described herein can be alternatively embodied in fixed form. Specifically, and for example, looking at the embodiment depicted inFIG.6C, this embodiment shows the members122angularly positioned to match the angle and profile of the reusable beverage container108. In the instance where the reusable beverage container108will be of a substantially similar shape in every instance of use, the one or more members122can be permanently affixed to a shape and/or angle that matches the shape and profile of the reusable beverage container108and resemble the UV sanitizing subsystem112as shown in this figure. In such an embodiment, the one or more members122move around the reusable beverage container108in a fixed position, or the reusable beverage container108can be rotated if the members122are fixed, resulting in the full application of UV light to the reusable beverage container108to achieve the stated desired result. This alternative embodiment of fixed members122is anticipated herein for all operable embodiments, and all figures provided herein can be alternatively interpreted to show a fixed profile embodiment.

In accordance with example embodiments, the one or more UV light source120of the profiler118are mounted to multiple movable profiling members122which can more accurately adjust to a variety of container profiles, such as the linear motion profiling members123shown inFIGS.7A-7Band the pivoting profiling members124shown inFIG.8. The positioning of the profiling members122,123,124of the profiler118close to the surface of the food or beverage container108can be achieved using one or more sensors, such as a vision subsystem125shown inFIG.7A-7B, proximity sensors, or stall sensors incorporated into the profiler118used to detect when the profiling members122,123,124contact the surface of the reusable beverage container108, then back off slightly. In all embodiments, either the reusable beverage container108or one or more UV light source120can be rotated, for example with a rotating base110as shown inFIG.8, to ensure all surfaces are evenly and effectively sanitized without requiring additional time or an excessive number of UV light sources120.

In accordance with example embodiments, such as seen inFIG.8, the housing102or one or more sliding members134of the housing102providing the access door106can be rotated or revolved around the UV sanitizing subsystem112to move the access door106between an open state providing access to the UV sanitizing subsystem112or a closed state blocking access to the UV sanitizing subsystem112. In embodiments of the invention, the rotating housing102or one or more sliding members134of the housing can rotate between states of providing access to place a reusable beverage container108into the UV sanitizing subsystem112from the “unsanitized” side, a closed state to prevent any access during the UV sanitization cycle, and a state providing access to retrieve the reusable beverage container108from the “sanitized” side as previously described.

Since the outer surface of the reusable beverage container108is what is handled by customers and retail employees, thus the surface most likely to transfer germs, it may be acceptable to only sanitize that surface. Alternatively, it may be desirable to sanitize all surfaces. An illustrative embodiment of the UV sanitizing subsystem112as shown inFIG.9uses a profiling arm121containing an array of at least one UV light source120, which is lowered into the internal volume of the reusable beverage container108and adjusted to position the array of at least one UV light source120in close proximity to the interior surface. A centering device, such as the centering fingers115on the rotating base110ofFIG.9, or pivoting centering mechanical arms114as previously shown inFIG.5, or any similar device, is used to properly position the reusable beverage container108such that when rotated on the rotating base110, the profiling arm121maintains a position in close proximity to the surface to ensure proper and effective sanitizing. Positioning of the profiling arm121can be performed with the use of one or more sensors, such as a vision subsystem125(refer toFIG.7), proximity sensors, or stall sensors incorporated into the profiling arm121. The array of at least one UV light source120of the interior profiling arm121includes UV lights positioned to emit light down onto the interior bottom surface of the reusable beverage container108such that all interior surfaces are sanitized. To sanitize the bottom exterior of the reusable beverage container108, a UV light or UV light array (not shown) may be placed below a perforated base109, in this case, the perforated rotating base110as shown inFIG.9. The positioning of at least one UV light source120below a perforated base109and/or movement of the perforated base109allows the emitted light to reach all areas of the bottom surface to ensure proper and effective sanitization. It should be noted that any combination of the presented concepts may be combined to achieve a desired level of sanitization of the reusable beverage container108.

In certain embodiments where a standardized reusable beverage container108is used with the UV sanitizing subsystem112, the profiler118(including members122,123,124), profiling arm121, or the UV sanitizing subsystem112itself (refer toFIGS.6A-8) can have a fixed shape or configuration that conforms to the dimensions of the standardized reusable beverage container108, such that the one or more UV light source120are in close proximity to the surface(s) of the standardized reusable beverage container108. This would simplify the UV sanitizing subsystem112as the profiler118would not require one or more sensors such as a vision subsystem125, proximity sensors, or stall sensors incorporated into the profiler118used to detect when the profiling arms contact the surface, then back off slightly.

In still other embodiments, the data store138(refer toFIG.1) can contain information about the shape of the reusable beverage container108such that when a reader128of the identification subsystem160(refer toFIG.1) reads the identification device126of the reusable beverage container108, the profiler118(refer toFIGS.6A-7) and/or profiling arm121(refer toFIG.9) can adjust to conform to the shape of the identified reusable beverage container108, placing the one or more UV light source120in close proximity to the surface(s) of the reusable beverage container108.

Even with the rapid sanitization cycle possible using the UV light source120, the time required to achieve the appropriate level of sanitization may be too long when high throughput, or no waiting time to load, is desired.FIGS.10A-10Cshow a dual stacked version of the revolving door system fromFIG.8. Here a second UV sanitizing subsystem212is provided that is sized, dimensioned, and configured to envelop a reusable beverage container108. A second access door206is provided on second sliding member234. The second access door206provides access to the second UV sanitizing subsystem212when the second access door206is in an open state and blocks access to the second UV sanitizing subsystem212when the second access door206is in a closed state. At least one UV light source120(not shown in this figure) is disposed within the second UV sanitizing subsystem212and configured to direct UV light at a predetermined intensity level and time duration onto a reusable beverage container108positioned inside the second UV sanitizing subsystem212in such a way as to result in sanitizing of surfaces of the reusable beverage container108. The housing102, in this case, the first sliding member134and second sliding member234of the housing102, rotate to expose the “unsanitized” side opening, the “sanitized” side opening, or a closed position with no openings for the sanitizing process to take place within the UV sanitizing subsystem112,212. InFIG.10Athe first sliding member134of the housing102is in a first position150where the first access door106is in an open state for receiving an unsanitized reusable beverage container108. The second sliding member234is in a second position252where the second access door206is in an open state allowing for the removal of a sanitized reusable beverage container108from the second UV sanitizing subsystem212. InFIG.10Bthe first sliding member134is moved such that the first access door106is in a closed state154during which a UV sanitization cycle is run. The second sliding member234is moved to a first position250where the second access door206is in an open state for receiving an unsanitized reusable beverage container108. InFIG.10Cthe first sliding member134is moved to a second position152where the first access door106is in an open state allowing for the removal of the now sanitized reusable beverage container108. The second sliding member234has been moved such that the second access door206is in a closed state254during which a UV sanitization cycle is run in the second UV sanitizing subsystem212. The sliding members134,234can then be moved back to the positions shown inFIG.10A.

By having dual UV sanitizing subsystems, such as the stacked subsystems as shown inFIGS.10A-10C, or some other combination of two or more UV sanitizing subsystems, the overall through-put of the system is increased and wait times to use a system are decreased as one UV sanitizing subsystem can be loaded or unloaded while the other is running the UV sanitization cycle. These systems can be a single housing containing multiple UV sanitizing subsystems as shown inFIGS.10A-10C, or multiple individual stand-alone UV sanitizing subsystems.

In certain embodiments, one of the first UV sanitizing subsystem112or second UV sanitizing subsystem212may be arranged or otherwise configured such that it operates in the opposite direction from the other UV sanitizing subsystem. For example, the first position150of the sliding member134may provide access to the “sanitized” side of the first UV sanitizing subsystems112where a sanitized reusable beverage container108can be retrieved and the second position152of the sliding member134provides access to the “unsanitized” side of the first UV sanitizing subsystems112where an unsanitized container can be inserted to be sanitized. Alternately, the second position252of the second sliding member234may be on the “unsanitized” side of the second UV sanitizing subsystems212and the first position250of the second sliding member234may be on the “sanitized” side of the second UV sanitizing subsystems212. Such configurations allow bi-directional sanitization where a reusable beverage container108can be sanitized during both the transition of the reusable beverage container108from the customer to retail employee and from the retail employee to the customer.

FIG.11shows an embodiment of the reusable beverage container108configured for use with the system100(refer toFIG.1). The identification device126is incorporated in the reusable beverage container108, such as an RFID tag, on or embedded within the reusable beverage container108, and is read by devices of the system100(refer toFIG.1), such as a reader128disposed at the UV sanitizing subsystem112(refer toFIG.2), to identify when the reusable beverage container108is handed off from the customer to the retail establishment. Various different types of identification technologies, including but not limited to near-field communication (NFC) chip, bar code, quick response (QR) code, optical character recognition, or the like, are also feasible and can be implemented as the identification device126and corresponding reader128(refer toFIG.1), as previously described.

FIG.12is a flow diagram of an example embodiment of the reusable beverage container sanitizing system process180in operation that associates a unique identification device126of a reusable beverage container108to a customer order such that the system100associates a specific order to be fulfilled in that reusable beverage container108after it has been sanitized using the UV sanitizing subsystem112. Specifically, the customer orders a beverage either directly at a point-of-sale register, kiosk, using a mobile smartphone application, or online ordering, and the like (step182), then uses a reader128of the identification subsystem160to read the identification device126to be associated to their reusable beverage container108(step184). The system100creates an association in the data store138between the order and that identification device126associated with that reusable beverage container108(step186) and outputs that information to the order information device130(step188). The customer places their reusable beverage container108into the UV sanitizing subsystem112(step190) and the UV sanitization cycle is run (step192). Once the UV sanitization cycle is complete, the retail employee removes the reusable beverage container108from the UV sanitizing subsystem112(step193) and fulfills the order in that reusable beverage container108according to the information provided by the order information device130(step194). Once the order has been fulfilled, the filled reusable beverage container is placed at the customer pickup location (step196), the customer is notified that their order is ready to be retrieved (step198) and the customer retrieves their filled reusable beverage container108from the customer pickup location (step200). As previously described and appreciated by one of skill in the art, the specific sequence of operations, and location and usage of devices may be altered while still keeping with the spirit and scope of the invention.

FIG.13is a flow diagram of an example embodiment of the reusable beverage container sanitizing system process180using automated processes of the system100to enhance the speed and ease of use of the system100for both the customer and the retail employee. Once the customer has previously used the system100, the information pertaining to the identification device126on or embedded within the customer's reusable beverage container108is saved in the data store138. As such, when the known customer orders a beverage (step182), the link between the customer's order and the reusable beverage container108will be created automatically as soon as the customer places the order (step186), as previously described. Alternatively, the customer can save a specific order for that reusable beverage container108such that the order will be placed automatically when the identification device126of the reusable beverage container108is read by a reader128of the identification subsystem160.

With the link established between the customer's order and the reusable food or beverage container108, the customer places their reusable food or beverage container108into the UV sanitizing subsystem112(step190). A reader128integral to the housing102of the UV sanitizing subsystem112reads the identification device126of the reusable beverage container108. In the exemplary embodiment, the successful reading of identification device126triggers a series of automated events (step202): order information is sent to the order information device130, the access door106is closed, the UV sanitization cycle is run, and the retrieval door104is open once the UV sanitization cycle is complete. The retail employee then removes the reusable beverage container108from the UV sanitizing subsystem112(step193) and fulfills the order in that reusable beverage container108according to the information provided by the order information device130(step194). Once the order has been fulfilled, the identification device126of the filled reusable beverage container108is read by a reader128(step204) which will trigger the system100to automatically notify the customer, via text message, mobile application notification, audio or video alert within the retail establishment, and the like, that their order is ready to be retrieved. The retail employee then places the filled reusable beverage container108in the customer pick-up area (step196) where it is retrieved by the customer (step200). This exemplary embodiment demonstrates one configuration of devices of the system for enhancing automation. As previously described and appreciated by one of skill in the art, the specific sequence of operations, and location and usage of devices may be altered while still keeping with the spirit and scope of the invention.

FIG.14depicts an example electronic, computer, or computing device1000that can be used to implement one or more aspects of the present invention. The functionality and hardware of such computing device1000may be implemented in any of the electronic hardware systems or subsystems described herein as involving or using a “computer” or “computing device” or the like, or related hardware for providing all or part of the described functionality, provided as a separate device or integrated into a system or subsystem described herein, as would be appreciated and understood by those of skill in the art. The terms “computer”, “computing device”, and the like utilized herein are intended to mean a processor at its most basic form, on up to more complex computing systems, including servers and cloud-based systems, in accordance with conventional meanings of such terms. However, for purpose of completeness, example components and related accessories that are intended to be encompassed by the use of the terms “computer”, “computing device”, “processor”, and the like will be provided below in example nonlimiting form.

The computing device1000is merely an illustrative example of a suitable computing environment and in no way limits the scope of the present invention. An “electronic device”, “remote device,” or “personal electronic device” as represented in figures and description herein, can include a “workstation,” a “server,” a “laptop,” a “desktop,” a “hand-held device,” a “mobile device,” a “tablet computer,” a “processor,” or other computing devices, as would be understood by those of skill in the art. Given that the computing device1000is depicted for illustrative purposes, embodiments of the present invention may utilize any number of computing devices1000in any number of different ways to implement a single embodiment of the present invention. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to a single computing device1000, as would be appreciated by one with skill in the art, nor are they limited to a single type of implementation or configuration of the example computing device1000.

The computing device1000can include a bus1010that can be coupled to one or more of the following illustrative components, directly or indirectly: a memory1012, one or more processors1014, one or more presentation components1016, input/output ports1018, input/output components1020, and a power supply1024. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the bus1010can include one or more busses, such as an address bus, a data bus, or any combination thereof. One of skill in the art additionally will appreciate that, depending on the intended applications and uses of a particular embodiment, multiple of these components can be implemented by a single device. Similarly, in some instances, a single component can be implemented by multiple devices. As such, the figures herein are merely illustrative of an exemplary computing device1000that can be used to implement one or more embodiments of the present invention, and in no way limits the invention.

The computing device1000can include or interact with a variety of computer-readable media. For example, computer-readable media can include Random Access Memory (RAM); Read Only Memory (ROM); Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM); flash memory or other memory technologies; CDROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical or holographic media; magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices that can be used to encode information and can be accessed by the computing device1000.

The memory1012can include computer-storage media in the form of volatile and/or nonvolatile memory. The memory1012may be removable, non-removable, or any combination thereof. Exemplary hardware devices are devices such as hard drives, solid-state memory, optical-disc drives, and the like. The computing device1000can include one or more processors that read data from components such as the memory1012, the various I/O components1020, etc. Presentation component(s)1016present data indications to a user or other device. Exemplary presentation components include a display device, speaker, printing component, vibrating component, etc.

The I/O ports1018can enable the computing or electronic device1000to be logically coupled to other devices, such as I/O components1020. Some of the I/O components1020can be built into the computing device1000. Examples of such I/O components1020include a sensor (including but not limited to: weight sensor, infrared sensor, camera, chemical sensor, microphone, or the like), keypad, touchpad, joystick, recording or storage device, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, printer, wireless device, networking device, and the like, as appropriate.

To any extent utilized herein, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” are intended to be construed as being inclusive, not exclusive. As utilized herein, the terms “exemplary”, “example”, and “illustrative”, are intended to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration” and should not be construed as indicating, or not indicating, a preferred or advantageous configuration relative to other configurations. As utilized herein, the terms “about” and “approximately” are intended to cover variations that may exist in the upper and lower limits of the ranges of subjective or objective values, such as variations in properties, parameters, sizes, and dimensions. In one non-limiting example, the terms “about” and “approximately” mean at, or plus 10 percent or less, or minus 10 percent or less. In one non-limiting example, the terms “about” and “approximately” mean sufficiently close to be deemed by one of skill in the art in the relevant field to be included. As utilized herein, the term “substantially” refers to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art. For example, an object that is “substantially” circular would mean that the object is either completely a circle to mathematically determinable limits, or nearly a circle as would be recognized or understood by one of skill in the art. The exact allowable degree of deviation from absolute completeness may in some instances depend on the specific context. However, in general, the nearness of completion will be so as to have the same overall result as if absolute and total completion were achieved or obtained. The use of “substantially” is equally applicable when utilized in a negative connotation to refer to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result, as would be appreciated by one of skill in the art.

Numerous modifications and alternative embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the best mode for carrying out the present invention. Details of the structure may vary substantially without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and exclusive use of all modifications that come within the scope of the appended claims is reserved. Within this specification embodiments have been described in a way which enables a clear and concise specification to be written, but it is intended and will be appreciated that embodiments may be variously combined or separated without parting from the invention. It is intended that the present invention be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims and the applicable rules of law.