Stackable drinkware

Stackable drinkware includes a mouth having a mouth diameter and a maximum cavity diameter, wherein the mouth diameter is less than the maximum cavity diameter. The drinkware includes a vessel having a closed bottom and open top, and a chute including an open bottom and open top, wherein the open bottom of the chute is coupled to the open top of the vessel. A sealed vessel or chute pre-filled with fluid may be provided, which may be opened and coupled to a mateable chute or vessel, respectively.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

Embodiments according to the present invention relate generally to fluid vessels, and more particularly to drinking fluid vessels to be held in a human hand.

2. Description of Related Art

Olfactory enhancement greatly affects a liquid's taste and perception of quality. As anyone with a severe cold can attest, without a sense of smell, eating and drinking becomes much less enjoyable. The human tongue can perceive only sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami. All other perceptions of taste (i.e. cherry, apples, cinnamon, mint, etc.) is a result of nasal or retronasal stimulation. Furthermore, the aromatic intensity level is often directly related to a perception of quality; the higher the intensity of aromas, the greater the perception of taste and quality.

Wine is big business. According to recent statistics, nearly four billion bottles of wine are consumed in the United States every year, and the wine industry is about a $30 billion retail industry. Wine consumption has steadily increased over the past twenty years in the United States, and this trend is predicted to continue for many years to come. Wine consumers are not only growing more savvy, but also are trending towards less pretentious and less conventional situations in which to drink wine. The result is an increases in wine consumption at informal gatherings where glass may not be permitted nor desired, among a consumer base that seek out new wines and wine products, so long as these new products enhance or improve their enjoyment.

Some recent, widely-accepted changes in the wine world include screwcap closures, boxed wine and even wine on tap, a cost effective alternative for businesses selling significant volume, such as sports and concert arenas, and outdoor festivals.

In addition to wine, craft beer is a huge industry. The craft beer market is valued at over $14 billion dollars. As consumers spend more on their beers, they want to be able to appreciate the brewer-intended beverage experience, and get the most out of the increased investment they have made in their beverage. Further, there has been a resurgence of the cocktail culture, including the consumption of spirits (e.g., whiskies, cognac, brandy), and mixed cocktails. As with conventional wine glasses, conventional beer and cocktail glasses include a drawback related to packing and transportation.

While there is reported evidence that alcohol has been consumed for the past eight millennia, or thereabouts, dated by the presence of perceived wine stains on stoneware artifacts, there remains room for improvement in the art of devices used in wine tasting and/or drinking.

In the human sensory examination and evaluation of liquids, particularly alcoholic beverages, one of the well-accepted stages of analysis involves how a liquid performs in the vessel (e.g. cup or glass), from which it is being consumed. This performance may be related to its appearance, smell and taste. A properly designed glass is capable of enhancing all three. While many designs feature a transparent surface with a bulbous cavity having a first diameter and a mouth having a second, smaller diameter that is used to gently focus aromas, the major disadvantage is that such glasses are not readily stackable. While recent advancements in glass technology have eliminated stems from glasses, making them at least partially nestable, there remains a great need for beverage vessels that provide an adequate aromatic concentration effect while at the same time being easily transportable.

In conjunction with stackability, it may be desirable to provide a pre-measured amount of fluid in a portion of such stackable drinkware. While pre-filled (presented to a consumer in a filled, sealed state) beverage containers have been utilized for decades, there remains room for improvement including increased stackability.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Drinkware according to the present invention combine desirable characteristics of wine glass design for an enhanced vinous experience with the convenience of easy assembly and portability.

Drinkware according to the present invention may be used with any liquid, and preferably any liquid of which the enjoyment of consuming same can be enhanced by way of olfactory stimulation, including, but not limited to wine, beer, spirits and cocktails. The stackable, nestable and easily transportable nature of the present invention ultimately reduces the cost to the end consumer. Currently all other present options with a similar shape cost upwards of two to twenty times more. Additionally, when formed of an injection molding compatible material the present invention may also be a shatterproof drinkware, which is desirable for use in an environment where the use of breakable materials such as glass is not permitted or desired.

This cost-effective and shatterproof option makes it the ideal solution for any event serving large volumes of wine, craft beer, spirits and cocktails, including but not limited to sports and concert arenas, outdoor festivals, restaurants, airlines, airports, hotels, coffee shops, retail wine stores, wine wholesaler events, and end consumer personal situations, such as home parties, where glass is usually not permitted or desired.

Further aspects or embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Turning now to the figures,FIGS. 1-7depict a first embodiment100of stackable drinkware according to the present invention. Generally, the drinkware according to the present invention includes a bottom fluid vessel110and a chute150attachable, preferably removably attachable, to the vessel110. When the chute150is coupled to the vessel110, the embodiment100preferably has an overall height102and defines a fluid cavity106having a maximum width108measured perpendicular to the height102. A preferred overall height102is about 4.0 inches, and a preferred maximum width108is about 2.5 inches to about 4.0 inches, with about 3.0 inches to about 3.5 inches being more preferred.

The vessel110generally includes a substantially frustospherical sidewall112(e.g. having a radius113of about 1.5 inches) extending through a vessel height114between a closed vessel bottom116and an open vessel top118. The sidewall112has a minimum sidewall thickness112a, which is preferably between 0.025 inches and 0.05 inches, with about 0.040 inches being most preferred. A preferred vessel height114is about 1.3 inches to about 1.8 inches. The closed vessel bottom116may be provided with one or more inwardly extending dimples120, which may provide structural support to the vessel110, and such one or more dimples120may occupy a majority of the surface area of the closed bottom116. The vessel110may be provided with one or more annular reinforcement ridges122, which may be integrally formed with the sidewall112. The reinforcement ridge(s)122preferably circumscribe the open vessel top118, or one or more of the ridges122is preferably at least closer to the top118than the closed bottom116.

The chute150generally includes a substantially frustoconical sidewall152extending through a chute height154between an open chute bottom156and an open chute top158. The sidewall152may be completely frustoconical, or its gradual curvature may have a large radius153, such as about three to four times the height102of the embodiment100, as shown inFIG. 5, where the radius153of a hypothetical spheroid having a wall comparable to the curvature of the cross sectional embodiment100would be about three to four times the height102of the embodiment100; and, this does not suggest that the radius of the embodiment100itself is three to four times the height102of the embodiment100. That is to say, that the curvature of the sidewall152will provide an exterior esthetic appearance comparable to a single piece stemless wine glass when embodiment100is assembled. The sidewall152preferably has a minimum chute sidewall thickness152a(e.g. about 0.040 inches) and a chute mouth sidewall thickness152b(e.g. about 0.060 inches) measured parallel to the minimum thickness152aat the open top158. As shown inFIG. 6A, the chute bottom156preferably includes a circumferential rim160, which may have a radially extending ridge162formed integrally therewith. As seen inFIG. 7, the chute top158preferably includes a circumferential rounded edge163, which has a mouth height165(e.g. about 0.060 inches) measured parallel to the embodiment height102. The edge163preferably surrounds or forms a part of the open top chute end158, the opening having a diameter167that is less than the maximum cavity width108, and more preferably about 60% to about 80%, and most preferably about 68% to about 72%, of the maximum cavity width108. Alternatively, the chute top158may be formed by a portion (not shown) of the sidewall152curled inwardly or outwardly backwards towards the chute bottom156and/or sidewall152to form a generally J-, P-, or hook-shaped cross-section.

The vessel110and chute150may be linked at a coupling170, including mating portions on each. In the first embodiment100, the coupling170includes a coupling collar172extending from the open top118of the vessel110and the rim160provided about the bottom156of the chute150. The collar172includes an annular receiving groove174defined between an annular receiving ledge176extending outward from the vessel wall112and an annular retaining ridge178. When assembled, the circumferential ridge162on the chute150is trapped in the receiving groove174, between the ledge176and retaining ridge178. The frictional contact between the ridge162(or rim160) and the groove174, ledge176, and/or ridge178is sufficient to maintain a seal to prevent leakage of a liquid (e.g. a beverage such as water or wine) out of the cavity106through the coupling170. Additionally or alternatively, a gasket material (not shown) may be disposed between the vessel110and the chute150at the coupling170to assist in the seal.

An alternate cross-section of the chute bottom156is shown inFIG. 6B. In this embodiment of the bottom156, rather than provide a rim160and ridge162as in the previous description, the end156may be provided with a circumferential outward roll175or other structure providing a generally J-shaped cross-section as shown. In this arrangement, a plurality of sealing contact points may be provided between the chute150and vessel110. The roll175preferably includes an outwardly biased free clip end177adapted to cooperate with the ridge178to maintain the vessel110and chute150in an assembled relationship. The roll175preferably nests substantially within the receiving groove174and the frictional contact between the roll175(and/or clip end177thereof) and the groove174, ledge176, and/or ridge178is sufficient to maintain a seal to prevent leakage of a liquid (e.g. a beverage such as water or wine) out of the cavity106through the coupling170. Additionally or alternatively, a gasket material (not shown) may be disposed between the vessel110and the chute150at the coupling170to assist in the seal.

The coupling170is preferably provided circumjacent the maximum cavity width108to enhance stackability. This maximum width108is preferably provided at or near the open top118of the vessel110. In any event, the coupling170and/or maximum width108is preferably provided at a predetermined location along the height102of the embodiment100, such as about 25% to about 50% of the height102as measured from the closed vessel bottom116. For example, on an embodiment100having a height102of about four inches preferably includes a coupling170having at least a portion located between about an inch from the bottom116and about two inches from the bottom.

FIG. 8depicts a second embodiment200of stackable drinkware, where similar reference numerals refer to similar or identical structure as compared to the first embodiment100. In this embodiment, a more intricate coupling270is provided in the manner of mating threads on the vessel210and the chute250. That is, one or more circumferentially ramped threads264(male or female) may be provided on the chute250, extending preferably from the open chute bottom end256towards the top end258. The threads264may be formed into the chute sidewall252or disposed thereon. The mating threads266include one or more circumferentially ramped threads266(female or male) provided on the vessel210, extending preferably within the coupling collar272, but could also be located on the exterior of the coupling collar. The frictional contact between the threads266,266is sufficient to maintain a seal to prevent leakage of a liquid (e.g. a beverage such as water or wine) out of the cavity206through the coupling270. Additionally or alternatively, a gasket material (not shown) may be disposed between the vessel210and the chute250at the coupling270to assist in the seal.

FIGS. 9-11show a third embodiment300of stackable drinkware according to the present invention, where similar reference numerals refer to similar or identical structure as compared to the first embodiment100. Like the second embodiment200, this embodiment300includes a more intricate coupling370in the nature of a locking tab and slot arrangement. A coupling collar372extends from the vessel sidewall312. Formed into the collar372is a plurality of slots380preferably formed at locations symmetrically spaced about the circumference of the collar372. Each slot380extends from an open first end382to a closed second end384, the slot380preferably at least partially becoming narrower at some point386(such as by way of a ramp387formed therein) between the first end382and the second end384. The slot380may include a tab relief388disposed between the narrowest point386along the slot380and the terminal end384. A plurality of tabs390may be provided on the chute350, preferably corresponding to the number and location of the plurality of slots380on the vessel310. The tabs390preferably extend radially outward from a tab collar392, which is circumferentially disposed about the open chute bottom end358and recessed from an outer surface of the chute sidewall352. Alternatively, the tabs390may depend directly from the chute sidewall352, without the use of a circumferential recessed collar392, at discrete locations corresponding to the locations of the slots380on the vessel310. In this manner, when the vessel310and chute350are assembled, preferably each slot380receives a tab390, which may be held frictionally therein. Accordingly, the interface between the collar372and the tabs390and/or collar392provides a seal sufficient to prevent leakage of a liquid (e.g. a beverage such as water or wine) out of the cavity306through the coupling370. Additionally or alternatively, a gasket material (not shown) may be disposed between the vessel310and the chute350at the coupling370to assist in the seal.

FIGS. 12-13Cdemonstrate the stackability of the components110,150according to the first embodiment100. Preferably, drinkware components according to the present invention have a desirable stacking factor. A stacking factor, as used herein, is equal to the number of components that may be nested within a space defined by a component footprint area multiplied by twice the height of the component. For instance, with respect to the first embodiment100, the stacking factor of the chute150(FIG. 12) is preferably about 20 to about 50, with about 40 to 45 being most preferred, whereas the stacking factor of the vessel110(FIGS. 13A-C) is preferably about four to about ten. For example, presuming a chute150having an outside diameter at the chute bottom156of about 3.62 inches and a chute height154of about 2.63 inches, it is preferable to be able to nest 20 to 50 chutes150in a space defined by the footprint of the bottom end156of the chute150and extending for a length of twice the height154, or about 5.26 inches. As shown inFIGS. 13B and 13C, when two vessels110are nested, the coupling collars172may be stacked (FIG. 13B) or at least partially nested (FIG. 13C). If nesting of the collars172is desirable, the collar172may be provided with the receiving groove174and ridge178, as described above, but extending from the ridge178may be an expanded collar portion172a, adapted to receive an annular receiving ledge176of a nested vessel110. In this manner, the annular ledge176of a first vessel110may rest against the ridge178of a second vessel110, which may improve the stacking factor of the vessel110, alone, by as much as 40% or more. The stacking factor will vary among the different embodiments of this invention, but minimally the stacking factor will be at least 4 for all embodiments of this invention.

The complete embodiment100preferably includes a stacking factor of about five to twenty with at least ten being preferred. That is, in a space defined by the footprint of the widest width107of the embodiment100, and extending for a length of twice the complete height102of the embodiment100, preferably at least ten of the vessels110and at least ten of the chutes150may be disposed, as shown inFIG. 14. If nested coupling collars172are utilized, this stacking factor may be increased to at least fifteen, and more preferably at least sixteen.

Drinkware embodiments according to the present invention may be made from any materials that will maintain an acceptable fluid containing seal at the coupling170. Additionally, for the pre-filled embodiment400discussed below, materials may be selected with an eye towards shelf-life, permeability, and/or prevention of discoloration. For instance, where a snap frictional compression coupling (e.g.170) is desired, preferable materials for one or both the vessel110and chute150may include polypropylene, polyester, polylactide (PLA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and/or polystyrene. Where a more intricate coupling (e.g.270,370), such as a progressive frictional compression with threads or tabs, materials such as polystyrene, copolyester, high density polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and/or low density polyethylene may be desirable.

Methods to manufacture drinkware according to the present invention include injection molding, blow molding, thermoforming (including vacuum forming), and rotational molding, with injection molding being a preferred methodology.

FIGS. 15-18depict an alternative embodiment400, where similar reference numerals refer to similar or identical structure as compared to the first embodiment100. This embodiment400includes a vessel410, which is provided to a consumer filled with a fluid430(e.g. wine) and sealed with a removable film or foil432. Thus, the vessel410is filled with a fluid430prior to final coupling of the chute450to the vessel410prior to use. The fluid430may be packaged in the vessel410under vacuum (vacuum sealed) in an attempt to limit or reduce the amount of oxygen in the sealed vessel. In a first providing step, a sealed vessel410is provided. The seal432is preferably provided about the perimeter of the open top418of the vessel410. The seal432may be adhered to the vessel410on the coupling collar472, or the circumferential ridge462, either of which cooperating structure may be provided on the vessel410. The seal432may span the entire width407of the vessel410, but at least completely covers any opening418formed in the top of the vessel410. In an opening step, the seal432is removed, at least partially, as shown inFIG. 16, and preferably completely, thereby allowing fluid communication between the interior of the vessel410and the ambient environment. Preferably after the seal432has been at least partially disconnected from the vessel410, the chute450may be coupled thereto in a coupling step, as shown inFIG. 17and as previously described. Thus, the fully assembled drinkware400may be provided with a pre-measured amount of fluid430, such as preferably between one fluid ounce and seven fluid ounces, with 6.3 ounces being most preferred. The seal432is preferably formed from a flexible film, such as NYLON, ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polypropylene (PP). The film432may be secured to the vessel410by any suitable means, such as by an adhesive, and/or by thermobonding, such as ultrasonic or heated pressure bonding. Regardless of the bond, it is preferable to avoid placing the bond on a majority of the frictionally interacting surface areas of the coupling470.

The stacking factor of the chute450of this embodiment400is preferably the same as or substantially similar to that of the chute150of the first embodiment, that is, about 20 to about 50, with about 40 to 45 being most preferred. The stacking factor of the vessel410of this embodiment is about 2. The stacking factor of the entire embodiment400is at least three, and preferably about 3.5 to about 4, with about 3.75 to about 3.85 being most preferred. Preferably, three sealed vessels410may be stacked on top of each other and at least three nested chutes450, and more preferably three vessels410and at least ten nested chutes450, would fit in a space defined by a the footprint area of the embodiment400area multiplied by twice the height of the embodiment400when assembled.

Turning now toFIGS. 19-29and initiallyFIG. 19a fifth embodiment500of stackable drinkware, i.e. a beverage receptacle such as a wine glass, is illustrated, where similar reference numerals refer to similar or identical structure as compared to the first embodiment100. Generally, the drinkware or beverage receptacle according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention includes a bowl510, also identified as a bottom fluid vessel in the proceeding embodiments, and a tube550, which is also identified as a chute in the proceeding embodiments, that is attachable, and preferably removably attachable, to the bowl510. When the tube550is coupled to the bowl510, the beverage receptacle embodiment500preferably has an overall height502and defines a fluid reservoir or capacity506having a maximum width508measured perpendicular to the height502. A preferred overall height502is about 4.2 inches, and a preferred maximum width508is about 3.0 inches to about four inches, with about 3.25 inches to about 3.75 inches being more preferred.

The bowl510generally includes a curved sidewall512that is inwardly concave relative to the central longitude axis of the embodiment500. The curved sidewall512of the bowl520extending through the bowl height514between an open top518of the bowl510at a first edge519of the sidewall512and the closed bowl bottom surface516at a second edge521of the sidewall512. The open top518of the bowl510, defined by the first edge519has an interior width527, which is preferably between 2.8 inches and 3.5 inches, with about 3.1 inches being most preferred. The closed bottom surface516of the bowl510, defined by the second edge521has an interior width529, which is preferably between 1.5 inches and 2.5 inches, with about 1.75 inches being most preferred. The sidewall512has a minimum sidewall thickness512a, which is preferably between 0.01 inches and 0.06 inches, with about 0.04 millimeters being most preferred. A preferred bowl height514is about 1.75 inches to about 2.25 inches. The closed bowl bottom surface516may be defined within an outer circumferential edge523that is connected, integral with or otherwise connected to the second edge521of the sidewall512. The closed bowl bottom surface516may also be provided with one or more inwardly extending dimples520, which may provide structural support to the bowl510, and such one or more dimples520may occupy a majority of the exterior side or surface area of the closed bottom surface516. The bowl510may be provided with one or more annular ridges522, which may be integrally formed with the exterior side of the sidewall512and extend outwardly therefrom. The annular ridge(s)522preferably circumscribe the open bowl top518, slightly offset from but adjacent the first edge519. That is to say that the one or more of ridges522is positioned along the exterior side of the sidewall512near the first edge519, and is preferably at least closer to the top518of the bowl510than the closed bottom surface516, as shown inFIGS. 20-24. One or more indicia525may be located at positions about the height514of the sidewall512of the bowl510, wherein the indicia525indicate a predetermined fluid volume within the fluid reservoir. For example, the indicia525may indicate a given number of fluid ounces to assist in filling the fluid reservoir with a corresponding volume of fluid. In an alternative embodiment, the indicia525may be alternatively or additionally located at positions about the sidewall552of the tube550or on the coupling collar572of the tube550, described in detail below. As shown inFIG. 24, the bowl top518preferably includes a circumferential rim560, which may have a radially extending ridge562formed integrally therewith. Alternatively, the open top518may be formed by a portion (not shown) of the sidewall512curled inwardly, generally towards the interior surface of the sidewall512or outwardly, generally towards exterior surface of the sidewall512(or towards the second edge559that defines the open tube bottom556of the tube when embodiment500is assembled) to form a generally J-, P- or hook-shaped cross-section.

The tube550generally includes a curved sidewall552that is inwardly concave relative to the central longitude axis of the embodiment500. The curved sidewall552extends generally along a tube height554between a first edge557that defines an open tube top558and a second edge559that defined an open tube bottom556. The height554of the tube550is preferably between 1.5 inches and 3.25 inches, with about 2.75 inches being most preferred. The first edge557of side wall552of the tube550defines an open top558, i.e. the opening at the top of the beverage receptacle of embodiment500, which has an area that is less than an area of the open bottom556that is defined by the second edge559of side wall552of the tube550. The open top558of the tube550, defined by the first edge557has an interior width561, which is preferably between 2.0 inches and 3.0 inches, with about 2.5 inches being most preferred. The open bottom556of the tube550, defined by the second edge559has an interior width563, which is preferably between 3.0 inches and 4.0 inches, with about 3.3 inches being most preferred. In one alternative embodiment, sidewall552may be frustoconical, or it may have a large radius, such as about three to four times the height502of the embodiment500, as described in prior embodiments. The sidewall552preferably has a minimum tube sidewall thickness552a, which is preferably between 0.03 inches and 0.06 inches, with about 0.04 inches being most preferred. As shown inFIG. 24, and will be discussed in further detail below, the tube bottom556, defined by the second edge559, preferably includes a radially circumferential coupling collar572radially extending from the bottom556of the tube550. While not illustrated, the first edge557defining the tube top558may be rounded, in a manner consistent with the circumferential rounded edge163of the first embodiment100. Alternatively, the first edge557located about the tube top558may be substantially flush relative to the tube sidewall552as shown inFIG. 23. The edge557preferably surrounds or forms a part of the open top558of the tube550, the opening having a diameter defined by the width561, that is less than the maximum cavity width508, and more preferably about 60% to about 80%, and most preferably about 68% to about 72%, of the maximum cavity width508. Alternatively, the open top558may be formed by a portion (not shown) of the sidewall552curled inwardly or outwardly backwards towards the chute bottom556and/or sidewall552to form a generally J-, P-, or hook-shaped cross-section. In one embodiment of the present invention, the edge557of the sidewall552is configured to receive a removable lid. The lid may be configured to cover the entire open top558of the tube550as to prevent fluid from exiting the beverage receptacle of embodiment500. Alternatively, the lid may be configured to cover a portion of the open top558of the tube550, thereby allowing a straw to be inserted through the lid, or allow a portion of fluid to exit the beverage receptacle of embodiment500through a spout or aperture having an area smaller than the area of the open top558of the tube550.

The bowl510and tube550may be linked at a coupling570, including mating portions disposed on the bowl510and tube550, respectively. Generally, the relative location of the components of the coupling570, namely the collar572and rim560, are reversed relative to the first embodiment100, in which the coupling collar172extends from the vessel110and the rim160is provided about the bottom156of the chute150. That is to say, in the fifth embodiment500, the coupling570includes a coupling collar572located at or extending near the bottom556of the tube550and the rim560provided about the open top518of the bowl510. The rim560is configured to be received within the collar572. The collar572includes an annular receiving groove574defined between an annular receiving protrusion576extending outward from the tube sidewall552and an annular retaining ridge578. The annular receiving groove574has an interior surface with a circumference that is greater than the circumference of the interior surface of both the annular receiving protrusion576and the annular retaining ridge578. When assembled, the outer or exterior surface of the radially extending ridge562of the circumferential rim560on the bowl510is trapped in the receiving groove574, between the annular receiving protrusion576and retaining ridge578, as shown inFIG. 2. When assembling the beverage receptacle of embodiment500, the rim560, or the radially extending ridge562thereof, which has an outer circumference larger than the interior circumference of the annular ridge578, is configured to inwardly deflect about the annular ridge578, while the bowl510and tube550are pressed together. After the rim560has traveled past the location of the annular ridge578, the rim560expands outwardly to engage the interior surface of the receiving groove574. In one embodiment, the outer circumference of the rim560is equal to or greater than the inner circumference of the receiving groove574, as to maintain a frictional engagement between the rim560and the receiving groove574.

When assembled, engagement of the rim560against the receiving groove574forms a snap-fit closure at the coupling570, and preferably a fluid tight seal. That is to say that the frictional contact between the rim560and the groove574, when assembled, is sufficient to maintain a seal to prevent leakage of a liquid or fluid (e.g. a beverage such as water or wine) out of the cavity506through the coupling570. Once the bowl510and tube550have been connected together via engagement of the rim560and collar572, a fluid reservoir575is formed within the beverage receptacle embodiment500, defined by the interior side of the bottom surface516, the interior side of the sidewall512of the bowl510and the interior side of the curved sidewall552of the tube550. Additionally or alternatively, a gasket material (not shown) may be disposed between the bowl510and the tube550at the coupling570to assist in the seal.

Furthermore, as shown inFIGS. 20, 23 and 25, when assembled as described above, the resultant beverage receptacle of embodiment500has a continuous or uninterrupted exterior side, e.g. surface, defined by the exterior side of the sidewall512of the bowl510, the exterior side of the coupling570, and the exterior side of the sidewall552of the tube550. Specifically, at the coupling570, as shown in detail inFIG. 24, the second edge559of the sidewall552of the tube552is received at a receiving portion573of the annular ridge522. The receiving portion573is configured to cooperate with the second edge559, such that the exterior surfaces of the coupling570adjacent the collar572and annular ridge522are uninterrupted. That is to say that at the exterior surface, the seam between the second edge559and the receiving portion573is aesthetically substantially free of any breaks, gaps or irregularities. As such the assembled embodiment500will appear as though it was formed of a single, uninterrupted body having an outwardly projected decorative ring at the widest point of the embodiment500, i.e. the location of the coupling570, rather than being formed of two-piece construction, i.e., a coupled bowl510and tube550. In such an embodiment, the resultant beverage receptacle of embodiment500, when assembled will provide an exterior esthetic appearance comparable to a single piece stemless wine glass.

The coupling570is preferably provided circumjacent the maximum cavity width508to enhance nesting and stackability of the bowl510and tube550, individually. This maximum width508is preferably provided at or near the open top518of the bowl510and/or the open bottom556of the tube550. In any event, the coupling570and/or maximum width508is preferably provided at a predetermined location along the height502of the beverage receptacle embodiment500, such as about 25% to about 50% of the height502as measured from the closed vessel bottom516. For example, in an embodiment500having a height502of about four inches preferably includes a coupling570having at least a portion located between about one inch from the bottom516and about two inches from the bottom. As shown inFIGS. 27 and 29, a plurality of the bowls510are configured to be partially nested within one another as to accommodate space saving stacking of the bowls510during shipment or storage. In this stacked orientation, one bowl510may be placed or received within another bowl510, such that the exterior side of the curved sidewall512of one bowl510is positioned adjacent the interior side of the curved sidewall512of the second bowl510. This stacking of bowls510may include any number of nested or stacked bowls510. Similarly, turning now toFIGS. 26 and 28, a plurality of the tubes550are also configured to be partially nested within one another as to accommodate space saving stacking of the tubes550during shipment or storage. In this stacked orientation, one tube550may be placed or received within another tube550, such that the exterior side of the curved sidewall552of one tube550is positioned adjacent the interior side of the curved sidewall552of the second tube550. This stacking of tubes550may include any number of nested or stacked tubes550.

FIGS. 26-29, and specifically cross sectionalFIGS. 28 and 29, further demonstrate the stackability of the components510,550according to the fifth embodiment500. Preferably, the bowl510and tube510components according to the present invention have a desirable stacking factor. As was described above in further detail, a stacking factor, as used herein, is equal to the number of components that may be nested within a space defined by a component footprint area multiplied by twice the height of the component. With respect to the fifth embodiment500, the stacking factor of the tube550is preferably about 4 to about 10, with about 6 to 8 being most preferred, whereas the stacking factor of the bowl510is at least four and preferably approximately 4 to approximately 6. As was previously mentioned, the stacking factor will vary among the different embodiments of this invention, but minimally the stacking factor will be at least 4 for all embodiments of this invention. The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described. While the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without departing from the invention. For instance, the coupling collar172,272,372is described as being preferably disposed on the vessel110,210,310, but it may alternatively be disposed on the chute150,250,350. Similarly, the coupling collar572is described as being preferably disposed on the tube550, but it may alternatively be disposed on the bowl510. Additionally or alternatively, the pre-filled embodiment400may be provided with the fluid430in the chute450, which has been sealed at one or both ends456,458.

Turning now toFIGS. 30-38and initiallyFIG. 30a sixth embodiment600of stackable drinkware, i.e. a beverage receptacle such as a wine glass, is illustrated, where similar reference numerals refer to similar or identical structure as compared to the first embodiment100. Generally, the drinkware or beverage receptacle according to the sixth embodiment600of the present invention includes a bowl610, also identified as a bottom fluid vessel in some of the preceding embodiments, and a tube650, which is also identified as a chute in some of the preceding embodiments, that is attachable, and preferably removably attachable, to the bowl610. When the tube650is coupled to the bowl610, the beverage receptacle embodiment600preferably has an overall height602and defines a fluid reservoir or capacity606having a maximum width608measured perpendicular to the height602. A preferred overall height602of the sixth embodiment600of the stackable drinkware is approximately between 3.0 inches and 4.5 inches, and more preferably about 3.3 inches. A preferred maximum width608of the sixth embodiment600of the stackable drinkware is approximately between 3.0 inches and 4.0 inches, and more preferably about 3.75. A preferred capacity606of the sixth embodiment600of the stackable drinkware is approximately between 10 fluid ounces and 15 fluid ounces, and more preferably about 12 fluid ounces.

The bowl610generally includes a curved sidewall612that is inwardly concave relative to a central longitude axis of the embodiment600. The curved sidewall612of the bowl610extending through the bowl height614between an open top618of the bowl610at a first edge619of the sidewall612and the closed bowl bottom surface616at a second edge621of the sidewall612. The open top618of the bowl610, defined by the first edge619has an interior width627, which is preferably between 2.8 inches and 3.5 inches, with about 3.2 inches being most preferred. The closed bottom surface616of the bowl610, defined by the second edge621has an interior width629, which is preferably between 1.5 inches and 2.5 inches, with about 1.8 inches being most preferred. The sidewall612has a minimum sidewall thickness512a, which is preferably between 0.01 inches and 0.06 inches, with about 0.04 millimeters being most preferred. A preferred height614of the sidewall612is about 1.75 inches to about 2.25 inches, with about 2.0 inches being most preferred.

The closed bowl bottom surface616may be defined within an outer circumferential edge623that is connected, integral with or otherwise connected to the second edge621of the sidewall612. The closed bowl bottom surface616may also be provided with one or more inwardly extending dimples620, which may provide structural support to the bowl610, and such one or more dimples620may occupy a majority of the exterior side or surface area of the closed bottom surface616.

The bowl610may be provided with one or more annular ridges622, which may be integrally formed with the exterior side of the sidewall612and extend outwardly therefrom. The annular ridge(s)622, of which there are two shown in the illustrated embodiment600ofFIG. 31, preferably circumscribe the open bowl top618and are slightly offset from but adjacent the first edge619. That is to say that the one or more of ridges622is positioned along the exterior side of the sidewall612near the first edge619, and is preferably at least closer to the top618of the bowl610than the closed bottom surface616, as shown inFIGS. 30-35. The one or more annular ridge(s)622may provide additional structural integrity to the bowl610as to minimize the deflection or flexion of the bowl210when assembles with tube650, as will be described in further detail below. That is to say that the one or more annular ridge(s)622provide increased rigidity about the top618of the bowl610as to maintain a fluid tight seal between the bowl610and the tube650when the sixth embodiment600of the drinkware is assembled.

Still referring toFIGS. 30 and 31, one or more indicia625may be located at positions about the height614of the sidewall612of the bowl610, wherein the indicia625indicate a predetermined fluid volume within the fluid reservoir. For example, the indicia625may indicate a given number of fluid ounces to assist in filling the fluid reservoir with a corresponding volume of fluid. Four indicia625are shown in the illustrated example of embodiment600inFIG. 31, however any number of indicia625are considered within the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment600of the present invention where the capacity606is preferably about 12 fluid ounces, the indicia625may identify predetermined capacity of 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, and 6.3 fluid ounces. Accordingly, the user of the drinkware of embodiment600may select from any one of the three indicia625to assist in accurately pouring the desired volume of fluid. Still referring toFIG. 31, the indicia625may be configured in a step-wise orientation, with the indicia625nearest the bottom surface616having the smallest circumference and the indicia625nearest the top618having the largest relative circumference, as to facilitate in extraction of the bowl610during injection molded plastic fabrication of the drinkware. Additionally, the indicia may provide additional structural stability and enhance the overall rigidity of the bowl610, in addition to providing fluid volume indications. In an alternative embodiment, not shown, the indicia625may be alternatively or additionally located at positions about the sidewall652of the tube650or on the coupling collar672of the tube650, described in detail below.

As shown inFIG. 34, the bowl top618preferably includes a circumferential rim660, which may comprise a medial wall680, and distal wall682, and a transverse wall684that extends between the medial wall268and the distal wall682, where the radially extending ridge662is formed integrally with the medial wall280and extends inwardly from the inner surface of the medial wall682of the bowl610. As shown inFIGS. 34 and 35, the circumferential rim660of the embodiment600is generally disposed in an inverted “U” shaped cross-section, with the medial wall680and the distal wall682defining the generally linear legs of the inverted “U” shaped cross-section, and the transverse wall684being a curved wall defining the curved central portion of the inverted “U” shaped cross-section. The circumferential rim660shown inFIGS. 34 and 35further defines a lower interstitial space686that is bordered on three sides by and located underneath the walls680,682,684of the circumferential rim660.

Turning now to the tube650of the sixth embodiment600, the tube650generally includes a curved sidewall652that is inwardly concave relative to the central longitude axis of the embodiment600. The curved sidewall652extends generally along a tube height654between a first edge657that defines an open tube top658and a second edge659that defined an open tube bottom656. The height654of the tube650is preferably between 1.5 inches and 3.25 inches, with about 1.2 inches being most preferred. The first edge657of side wall652of the tube650defines an open top658, i.e. the opening at the top of the beverage receptacle of embodiment600, which has an area that is less than an area of the open bottom656that is defined by the second edge659of side wall652of the tube650. The open top658of the tube650, defined by the first edge657has an interior width661, which is preferably between 2.0 inches and 3.0 inches, with about 2.5 inches being most preferred. The open bottom656of the tube650, defined by the second edge659has an interior width663, which is preferably between 2.5 inches and 4.0 inches, with about 3.0 inches being most preferred. In one alternative embodiment, not shown, sidewall652may be frustoconical, or it may have a large radius, such as about three to four times the height602of the embodiment600, as described in prior embodiments. The sidewall652preferably has a minimum tube sidewall thickness652a, which is preferably between 0.03 inches and 0.06 inches, with about 0.04 inches being most preferred.

As shown inFIG. 34, and will be discussed in further detail below, the tube bottom656, defined by the second edge659, preferably includes a radially circumferential coupling collar672radially extending from the bottom656of the tube650. Still referring toFIG. 34, the first edge657of the tube650, defining the tube top658, may be rounded in a manner consistent with the circumferential rounded edge163of the first embodiment100. Alternatively, while not shown, the first edge657located about the tube top658may be substantially flush relative to the tube sidewall652, in a manner consistent with the circumferential rounded edge563of the fifth embodiment500. The edge657preferably surrounds or forms a part of the open top658of the tube650, the opening having a diameter defined by the width661, that is less than the maximum width608of the drinkware of the sixth embodiment600, and more preferably about 60% to about 80%, and most preferably about 65% to about 70%, of the width608. Alternatively, the open top658may be formed by a portion of the sidewall652curled inwardly or outwardly backwards towards the tube bottom656and/or sidewall652to form a generally J-, P-, or hook-shaped cross-section. For example, in the embodiment shown inFIG. 34, the first edge657that defined the open top658does include a slight :P″-shaped cross-section. In one embodiment of the present invention, the edge657of the sidewall652is configured to receive a removable lid, as was described in prior embodiments of the present invention. The lid may be configured to cover the entire open top658of the tube650as to prevent fluid from exiting the beverage receptacle of embodiment600. Alternatively, the lid may be configured to cover a portion of the open top658of the tube650, thereby allowing a straw to be inserted through the lid, or allow a portion of fluid to exit the beverage receptacle of embodiment600through an aperture having an area smaller than the area of the open top658of the tube650.

Referring now toFIGS. 34 and 35, the bowl610and tube650may be joined at a coupling670, including mating portions disposed on the bowl610and tube650, respectively. Generally, the relative location of the components of the coupling670, namely the collar672and rim660, are reversed relative to the first embodiment100, in which the coupling collar172extends from the vessel110, i.e., bowl, and the rim160is provided about the bottom156of the chute150, i.e., tube. That is to say, in the sixth embodiment600, the coupling670includes a coupling collar672located at or extending near the bottom656of the tube650and a rim660provided about the open top618of the bowl610.

The rim660is configured to be received within the collar672to form a fluid tight seal. As shown in detail inFIG. 35, the collar672may comprise medial wall688, and distal wall690, a first transverse wall692that extends between the sidewall652and the medial wall688, and a second transverse wall294that extends between the medial wall288and the distal wall690. An annular retaining ridge678is formed integrally therewith the collar672, and extends outwardly from the outer or mating surface of the medial wall688of the tube650. As shown inFIGS. 34 and 35, the receiving collar672of the embodiment600is generally disposed in an sideways “S” shaped cross-section, with the lower portion of the sidewall652, the medial wall688, and the distal wall690defining the three generally parallel lengths of the sideways “S” shaped cross-section, and the first and second transverse walls,692,294being the curved walls defining the opposing curved sections of the sideways “S” shaped cross-section. The receiving collar672shown inFIGS. 34 and 35further defines a first interstitial space692that is bordered on three sides by the walls652,692,688of the receiving collar672and is located generally above the first transverse wall692. The receiving collar672also defines a second interstitial space696that is bordered on three sides by the walls688,694,690of the receiving collar672, and is located generally below the second transverse wall694. That is to say that the first interstitial space692is open to atmosphere at its top while the second interstitial space694is open to atmosphere at its bottom. As shown inFIGS. 34 and 35, the second interstitial space696is generally configured to receive the circumferential rim660when the bowl610and tube650are secured together in a water tight seal at the coupling670as described in further detail below.

As was described above, the annular retaining ridge678of the receiving collar672is formed integrally with the medial wall688of the tube650, and extends outwardly from the outer or mating surface of the medial wall688and into the second interstitial space696. In embodiment600, the collar672of the tube650may also include a receiving area674on the mating surface of the medial wall688disposed between the annular retaining ridge678and the second transverse wall694. In one embodiment of the present invention, the annular retaining ridge678extends beyond the receiving area674, and into the second interstitial space696, by a distance of approximately 0.125 millimeter and 0.5 millimeter, and more preferably 0.25 millimeter. The receiving area674has an outer engaging or mating surface with a circumference that is smaller than the circumference of the adjacent mating surface of the annular retaining ridge678. In one embodiment of the present invention, the circumference of the outer engaging or mating surface of the receiving area674is smaller than the circumference of the adjacent mating surface of the annular retaining ridge678by a distance of approximately 0.25 millimeter and 1.0 millimeter, and more preferably 0.5 millimeter.

Still referring toFIGS. 34 and 35, in one preferred embodiment, the circumference of the outer facing engaging or mating surface of the annular retaining ridge678of the collar672is greater than the circumference of both the outer facing engaging or mating surface of the receiving area674and the inner facing engaging or mating surface of the annular retaining ridge662of the rim660, as to maintain a frictional engagement between the radially extending ridge662, the annular retaining ridge662, and the receiving area674when the drinkware of the sixth embodiment600is assembled. That is to say, that the circumference of the inner facing mating surface of the radially extending ridge662of the circumferential rim660on the bowl610is smaller than the circumference of the outer facing mating surface of the annular retaining ridge678by a distance of approximately 0.25 millimeter and 1.0 millimeter, and more preferably 0.5 millimeter. Accordingly, in the assembled configuration, the inner facing or mating surface of the radially extending ridge662of the circumferential rim660on the bowl610, is secured in the receiving area674, between the second transverse wall694and retaining ridge678, as shown inFIG. 35. To achieve this assembled configuration, shown inFIGS. 34 and 35, the bowl610and tube650are pushed together. As a result of the opposing forces applied to the bowl610and tube650, a slight deflection or flexing of the radially extending ridge662of the circumferential rim660on the bowl610and/or the annular retaining ridge678of the collar672on the tube650allows the radially extending ridge662to slide over the annular retaining ridge678and be seated in the receiving area674. When assembled the radially extending ridge62and the annular retaining ridge678circumferentially overlap, thereby maintaining the fluid tight seal of the coupling670.

That is to say, when assembling the beverage receptacle of embodiment600, the rim660, or more specifically the mating surface of the radially extending ridge662thereof, which has an inner circumference larger than the exterior circumference of the mating surface of the annular ridge678, is configured to deflect about the annular ridge678, while the bowl610and tube650are pressed together. After the radially extending ridge662of the rim660has traveled past the location of the annular ridge678, the rim660expands outwardly to engage the exterior or mating surface of the receiving area674. As a result, the rim660is received generally within the second interstitial space696of the collar672. In this mated configuration, with the circumference of the radially extending ridge662expanded beyond its resting circumference, the medial wall680of the rim660may continually apply an inwardly directed pressure, i.e., a spring force, on the medial wall688of the collar672, as it attempts to return to its resting circumference. Similarly, or alternatively, in the mated configuration, with the circumference of the annular retaining ridge678compressed to a distance less than its resting circumference, the medial wall688of the collar672may continually apply an outwardly directed pressure, i.e., a spring force, on the medial wall680of the rim660, as it attempts to return to its resting circumference. As a result of one or both of these spring forces, the rim660and collar672of the coupling670form a water tight seal.

As shown inFIGS. 34 and 35the inverted “U” shaped cross-section of the circumferential rim660is generally received within the second interstitial space696of the sideways “S” shaped cross-section of the coupling collar672. Furthermore, in the mated configuration and as shown inFIG. 35, the upper facing engaging or mating surface of the transverse wall684of the circumferential rim660may engage a portion of the lower facing engaging or mating surface of the second transverse wall694of the collar672, thereby providing additional contact between the rim660and the collar672to form a fluid tight seal at that coupling670. Still further, while not shown inFIG. 35, the outwardly facing engaging or mating surface of the distal wall682of the circumferential rim660may engage a portion of the inner facing engaging or mating surface of the distal wall690of the collar672, thereby providing additional contact between the rim660and the collar672to form a fluid tight seal at that coupling670.

When assembled, engagement of the radially extending ridge662against the annular retaining ridge662, and the receiving area674may form an audible snap closure at the coupling670, as the radially extending ridge662of the rim660passes over the annular retaining ridge678of the collar672, and preferably forms a fluid tight seal. That is to say that the frictional contact between the radially extending ridge662, the annular retaining ridge678, and the receiving area674, when assembled, is sufficient to maintain a seal to prevent leakage of a liquid or fluid (e.g. a beverage such as water or wine) out of the cavity606through the coupling670. In this assembled or mated configuration the radially extending ridge662of the rim exerts an inwardly directed compression force against the receiving area674and/or the annular retaining ridge662of the collar672around the circumference of the drinkware. The compression force is applied in a direction generally perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis of the drinkware.

Once the bowl610and tube650have been connected together via engagement of the rim660and collar672, a fluid reservoir675is formed within the beverage receptacle embodiment600, defined by the interior side of the bottom surface616, the interior side of the sidewall612of the bowl610and the interior side of the curved sidewall652of the tube650. Additionally or alternatively, a gasket material (not shown) may be disposed between the bowl610and the tube650at the coupling670to assist in the seal.

The coupling670is preferably provided circumjacent the maximum cavity width608to enhance nesting and stackability of the bowl610and tube650, individually. This maximum width608is preferably provided at or near the open top618of the bowl610and/or the open bottom656of the tube650. Furthermore, increased stability of the coupling and decreased flexibility of the tube650is experienced when the coupling670is located about the upper half of the height602. Accordingly, the coupling670and/or maximum width608is preferably provided at a predetermined location along the height602of the beverage receptacle embodiment600, such as in one preferred embodiment about 25% to about 50% of the height602is comprised of the height654of the tube654, and in a more preferred embodiment about 33% of the height602is comprised of the height654of the tube654. For example, in an embodiment600having a height602of about four inches preferably includes a coupling670having at least a portion located between about one inch from the bottom616and about two inches from the bottom616.

As shown inFIG. 36, a plurality of the tubes650are configured to be partially nested within one another as to accommodate space saving stacking of the tubes650during shipment or storage. In this stacked orientation, one tube650may be placed or received within another tube650, such that the exterior side of the curved sidewall652of one tube650is positioned adjacent the interior side of the curved sidewall652of the second tube650. This stacking of tubes650may include any number of nested or stacked tubes650. Similarly, as shown inFIG. 37, a plurality of the bowls610are configured to be partially nested within one another as to accommodate space saving stacking of the bowls610during shipment or storage. In this stacked orientation, one bowl610may be placed or received within another bowl610, such that the exterior side of the curved sidewall612of one bowl610is positioned adjacent the interior side of the curved sidewall612of the second bowl610. This stacking of bowls610may include any number of nested or stacked bowls610.

FIGS. 36 and 37, further demonstrate the stackability of the components610,650according to the sixth embodiment600. Preferably, the bowl610and tube650components according to the present invention have a desirable stacking factor. As was described above in further detail, a stacking factor, as used herein, is equal to the number of components that may be nested within a space defined by a component footprint area multiplied by twice the height of the component. With respect to the sixth embodiment600, the stacking factor of the tube650is preferably about 4 to about 10, with about 4 to 6 being most preferred, whereas the stacking factor of the bowl610is at least 4 and preferably approximately 4 to approximately 7. As was previously mentioned, the stacking factor will vary among the different embodiments of this invention, but minimally the stacking factor will be at least 4 for all embodiments of this invention.

Furthermore, turning now toFIG. 38, and as shown inFIGS. 30, 31 and 34, when assembled as described above, the resultant beverage receptacle of embodiment600has an exterior side, e.g. surface, defined by the exterior side of the sidewall612of the bowl610, the exterior side of the coupling670, and the exterior side of the sidewall652of the tube650. At the coupling670, the first interstitial space692of the collar276and the interstitial space of the circumferential rim660will be exposed to atmosphere. That is to say that the upwardly oriented first interstitial space692of the collar276and the downwardly oriented interstitial space686of the circumferential rim660will be accessible to a user of the beverage receptacle of embodiment600. Accordingly, in one embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated inFIG. 38, the downwardly oriented interstitial space286of the circumferential rim660is configured to receive a drinkware accessory696within the space286. As shown inFIG. 38, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drinkware accessory696is a cord having a cross sectional diameters approximately equal to the width of the downwardly oriented interstitial space686of the circumferential rim660, such that the drinkware accessory696is received and retained within the interstitial space686by frictional engagement. In one preferred embodiment, the drinkware accessory696has a length approximately equal to the circumferential length of the interstitial space686, such that the drinkware accessory696forms a ring that fills the interstitial space686. In one embodiment, the drinkware accessory696may be formed of one or more colors, such that the drinkware accessory696constitutes a unique drinkware identifier. That is to say, when more than one drinkware is used amongst a plurality of users, a unique color drinkware accessory696may be associated with each individual user's drinkware such that the users can readily identify their own drinkware or glass. Alternatively, the drinkware accessory696may be formed a fluorescent or glow-in-the dark material.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a display area (not shown) may be disposed on exterior surface of the drinkware of the sixth embodiment600. In one embodiment, the display area is a generally rectangular area located on the exterior surface of the sidewall652of the tube650. The display area may be configured to receive a written, stamped, adhesively affixed display, or any alternative means of affixing a display to a surface as is known in the art. The display area may have a matte finish or alternative surface treatment to improve adhesion or retention of a display within the display area. In an alternative embodiment, the display are may alternatively or additionally located on the exterior surface of the sidewall612of the bowl610.

The foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Furthermore, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described. While the preferred embodiment has been described, the details may be changed without departing from the invention. For instance, the coupling collar172,272,372is described as being preferably disposed on the vessel110,210,310, but it may alternatively be disposed on the chute150,250,350. Similarly, the coupling collars572and672as described as being preferably disposed on the tube550,650, but it may alternatively be disposed on the bowl510,610. Additionally or alternatively, the pre-filled embodiment400may be provided with the fluid430in the chute450, which has been sealed at one or both ends456,458.