Patent Publication Number: US-8113247-B2

Title: Bottom fillable bottles and systems for charging the same

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a Continuation Application which claims the benefit of and priority to International Application Ser. No. PCT/US2005/042041, filed on Nov. 21, 2005, which in turn claims the benefit of and priority to each of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/630,011, filed Nov. 21, 2004; U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/685,605, filed May 27, 2005; and U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/729,067, filed Oct. 20, 2005, the entire contents of each of which being incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates to fluid dispensers and containers and, more particularly, to bottles and the like which may be filled from the bottom thereof, to systems for charging the bottom tillable bottles with a fluid or the like, and to valves for use in conjunction with the same. 
     2. Background of Related Art 
     Typically, bottles are filled with fluid through an opening formed near or at a top end thereof. The opening may then be closed with a cap which must first be removed in order to dispense the fluid from within the bottle, or closed with a dispensing cap which may be selectively opened in order to dispense the fluid from within the bottle without the dispensing cap being removed therefrom. The dispensing cap facilitates and expedites access to the fluid and dispensing of the fluid from the bottle. 
     However, the process of filling and closing the bottle is still relatively slow and inefficient. In order to fill the bottle, the cap must be removed, the bottle filled with the fluid, and the cap replaced on the bottle to close the bottle and prevent loss of the fluid therefrom. 
     A need exists for bottles which may be quickly and easily filled or charged with fluid, with or without removing a cap therefrom. 
     A need also exists for systems for charging and/or recharging empty or spent bottles with fluid in a facile and efficient manner. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure relates valves for use in conjunction with bottles and the like which may be filled from the bottom thereof or for use in conjunction with systems for charging the bottom fillable bottles with a fluid or the like. 
     According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a valve assembly for charging/recharging containers and the like, from a bottom surface thereof is provided. The valve assembly includes a dispenser manifold having a base wall defining a central opening therethrough, and an outer annular rim extending from a bottom surface of the base wall and surrounding the central opening of the base wall; an annular outer wall extending from an upper surface of the base wall, the annular outer wall defines a recess on the base wall; and a nipple extending from an upper surface of the base wall, wherein the nipple defines a lumen therethrough which is in fluid communication with the central opening of the base wall, and wherein the nipple defines an aperture formed in an upper surface thereof. 
     The valve assembly further includes a fitting extending from the central opening of the base wall of the dispenser manifold, wherein the fitting defines a central opening extending therethrough, and wherein the fitting is configured and adapted to fluidly engage a fluid supply line. 
     The valve assembly further includes a plunger slidably supported within the lumen of the nipple, within the central opening of the dispenser manifold, and within the fluid passage of the fitting. The plunger includes at least one arm extending through a side of the nipple and into the recess of the dispenser manifold; a plug extending therefrom for selective operative engagement with the opening of the nipple; and a lumen extending therethrough and terminating in an upper annular passage defined around the plug. 
     The valve assembly further includes a plurality of seals creating fluid tight seals between the dispenser manifold, the fitting and the plunger. A first seal is disposed about the plug to create a fluid tight seal between the opening in the nipple and the plug of the plunger; a second seal is disposed about the plunger, above the at least one arm, to create a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the plunger and an inner surface of the nipple within the lumen thereof, and a third seal is disposed about the plunger, below the at least one arm, to create a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of the plunger and in inner surface of the fitting within the central opening thereof. 
     The plunger is biased to a first position in which the plug occludes the opening formed in the upper surface of the nipple, and the plunger is movable to a second position wherein the plug does not occlude the opening of the nipple and a fluid passage is established through the central opening of the fitting, through the lumen of the plunger, and through the opening of the nipple. 
     The valve assembly may further include a faucet tube assembly configured and adapted for fluid engagement with the dispenser manifold. Accordingly, when the faucet tube assembly is connected to the dispenser manifold, a fluid passage is established through the central opening of the fitting, through the lumen of the plunger, through the opening of the nipple, and through a lumen of a neck of the faucet tube assembly. 
     The dispenser manifold may be securable to a supporting surface such that the fitting extends through the supporting surface. 
     The valve assembly may further include a nut for securing the dispenser manifold to the supporting structure. The valve assembly may further include a gasket disposed between a bottom surface of the dispenser manifold and a top surface of the supporting surface. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and, together with a general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a longitudinal cross sectional view, with parts separated, of a portion of a bottle and nipple assembly of a charging system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the portion of the bottle of  FIG. 1 , illustrating the nipple assembly connected to the bottle; 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded perspective view of the nipple assembly of  FIGS. 1 and 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view of a valve assembly of the charging system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 5  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the valve assembly of  FIG. 4  shown in an closed condition; 
         FIG. 6  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the valve assembly of  FIGS. 4 and 5 , shown in an open condition; 
         FIG. 7  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view, illustrating the connection of the bottle of  FIGS. 1 and 2  to the valve assembly of  FIGS. 4-6 , in order to charge or recharge the bottle with a fluid; 
         FIG. 8  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a valve assembly, according to an alternate embodiment of the present disclosure, shown in a closed condition; 
         FIG. 9  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the valve assembly of  FIG. 8 , shown in an open condition; 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic cross-sectional view of a charging/recharging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating the filling of a bottle with fluid; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a bottom fillable bottle assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating the bottle assembly in an open condition; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of the bottle assembly of  FIG. 11 , shown in a closed condition; 
         FIG. 13  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the bottle assembly of  FIGS. 11 and 12 , as taken through  13 - 13  of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a cover assembly of the bottle assembly of  FIGS. 11-13 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a bottom perspective view of the cover assembly of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a top perspective view of a base assembly of the bottle assembly of  FIGS. 11-13 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the base assembly of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view, with parts separated, of the bottle assembly of  FIGS. 11-17 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a faucet assembly, in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 20  is an enlarged perspective view of a charging valve assembly of the faucet assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 21  is an enlarged perspective view, with parts separated, of the charging valve assembly of the faucet assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 22  is longitudinal cross-sectional view of the charging valve assembly of  FIG. 20 , shown in a closed condition; 
         FIG. 22A  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view illustrating the fluid engagement of the base assembly of  FIGS. 16 and 17  with the charging valve assembly of  FIGS. 19-22 ; 
         FIG. 23  is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a supply assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 24  is an enlarged perspective view of a hydraulics assembly of the supply assembly of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view, with parts separated, of the hydraulics assembly of  FIG. 24 ; 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view, with parts separated, of an LED assembly of the supply assembly of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view, with parts separated of a tank assembly of the supply assembly of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a fan plate assembly of the supply assembly of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a filter assembly for use with the supply assembly of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a bottle assembly in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 31  is a side elevational view of the bottle assembly of  FIG. 30 ; 
         FIG. 32  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the bottle assembly of  FIGS. 30 and 31 , illustrating the top lid assembly thereof in a closed condition; 
         FIG. 33  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the top lid assembly of  FIG. 32  in an open condition; 
         FIG. 34  is an exploded perspective view of the top lid assembly of  FIGS. 32 and 33 ; 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of a spout cover of the top lid assembly of  FIGS. 32-34 ; 
         FIG. 36  is a perspective view of a spout lid of the top lid assembly of  FIGS. 32-34 ; 
         FIG. 37  is a perspective view of a cam member of the top lid assembly of  FIGS. 32-34 ; 
         FIG. 38  is a top perspective view of a spout of the top lid assembly of  FIGS. 32-34 ; 
         FIG. 39  is a bottom perspective view of the spout of  FIG. 38 ; 
         FIG. 40  is a top plan view of a straw stand of the top lid assembly of  FIGS. 32-34 ; 
         FIG. 41  is a cross-sectional view of the straw stand of  FIG. 40 , as taken through  41 - 41  of  FIG. 40 ; 
         FIG. 42  is a top perspective view of a spout bottom lid of the top lid assembly of  FIGS. 32-34 ; 
         FIG. 43  is a bottom perspective view of the spout bottom lid of  FIG. 42 ; 
         FIG. 44  is a perspective view of a spout trigger of the top lid assembly of  FIGS. 32-34 ; 
         FIG. 45  is a bottom plan view of a spout driver of the top lid assembly of  FIGS. 32-34 ; 
         FIG. 46  is a side, elevational view of the spout driver of  FIG. 45 ; 
         FIG. 47  is an exploded perspective view of a bottom lid assembly of the bottle assembly of  FIGS. 30 and 31 ; 
         FIG. 48  is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the bottom lid of  FIG. 47 ; and 
         FIG. 49  is a perspective view of an alternate bottom lid for use with the bottle assembly of  FIGS. 30 and 31 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
     Embodiments of the presently disclosed fluid charging or recharging system will now be described in detail with reference to the drawing figures wherein like reference numerals identify similar or identical elements. As used herein and as is traditional, the term “distal” refers to that portion which is furthest from the user while the term “proximal” refers to that portion which is closest to the user. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1-7 , a charging or recharging system, in accordance with the present disclosure, is shown and described. The charging system includes a nipple assembly  100 , as seen in  FIGS. 1-3 , and a valve assembly  200 , as seen in  FIGS. 4-6 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1-3 , a detailed discussion of nipple assembly  100  is provided. As seen in  FIGS. 1-3 , nipple assembly  100  is configured for selective attachment or connection to a bottle  10  or the like. Desirably, nipple assembly  100  is connected to and through a bottom surface  12  of bottle  10 , however, it is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure that nipple assembly  100  may be connected to and through a side surface  14  of bottle  10 . Nipple assembly  100  is connected to bottle  10  by connecting structure  108 , here shown as a thread, which mates with complementary connecting structure  16   a  provided in a port  16  formed in bottom surface  12  of bottle  10 . While connecting structures  108  and  16   a  are shown as threads, it is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure for the connecting structure to be any cooperating mating elements, such as, for example, bayonet-type connecting structure and the like. It is further envisioned that nipple assembly  100  may be fixedly secured to bottle  10 , such as, for example, by welding, gluing and the like. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 1-3 , nipple assembly  100  includes a cylindrical body portion  102  defining a lumen  104  therethrough and at least one, preferably, a plurality of apertures  106  formed therearound. Body portion  102  includes connecting structure  108 , desirably provided at a location proximal of apertures  106 , for engaging connecting element  16   a  of port  16 . Nipple assembly  100  includes an external flange  110  extending from body portion  102  which functions as a stop to prevent nipple assembly  100  from passing completely through port  16  and into bottle  10 . A gasket or O-ring  112  may be positioned on a distal surface  110   a  of flange  110 . Gasket  112  functions to create a fluid-tight seal between flange  110  of nipple assembly  100  and port  16  of bottle  10 . 
     Nipple assembly  100  further includes a stopper  120 , in the form of a sphere or ball, dimensioned to slidably sit within lumen  104  of body portion  102 . Body portion  104  includes an internal flange or shoulder  114  (see  FIG. 7 ) against which stopper  120  engages or contacts. Accordingly, in use, when stopper  120  is engaged against shoulder  114 , lumen  104  of body portion  102  is closed, preventing passage of fluid therethrough. Additionally, when stopper  120  is spaced a distance from shoulder  114 , lumen  104  of body portion is open, allowing for the passage of fluid therethrough. Stopper  120  is biased against shoulder  114  (i.e., to the closed condition) by a biasing member  116  (e.g., a compression spring or the like). Biasing member  116  is desirably positioned between stopper  120  and a plug or cap  118  connected to a distal end of body portion  102 . 
     Desirably, a proximal end  102   b  of body portion  102  extends beyond external flange  112  to define a stem or the like. Stem  102   b  includes a series of undulations  103  formed around a proximal edge thereof. At least one gasket or O-ring  107  is provided around stem  102   b  in order to form a fluid-tight seal with valve assembly  200 , as will be described in greater detail below. 
     Desirably, a cap  150  may be provided which snap-fits or friction fits onto stem  102   b  of nipple assembly  100 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 4-6 , a detailed discussion of valve assembly  200  is provided. As seen in  FIGS. 4-6 , valve assembly  200  includes a body portion  202  defining a through-bore  204  therethrough. Through-bore  204  defines an open distal end  206 . As seen in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , through-bore  204  includes a distal portion  204   a  having a first diameter and a proximal portion  204   b  having a second diameter, larger than the first diameter of distal portion  204   a . A shoulder  204   c  is defined between distal portion  204   a  and proximal portion  204   b  of through-bore  204 . Open distal end  206  is dimensioned to receive stem  102   b  of nipple assembly  100 . 
     Body portion  202  further includes a channel or conduit  208  extending through a side thereof and in fluid communication with through-bore  204 . Desirably, a distal end  208   a  of channel  208  is in close proximity to distal end  206  of through-bore  204 . A proximal end  208   b  of channel  208  may include connecting structure  209  for connection with a free end of a fluid supply line “S” (see  FIG. 7 ). 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 4-6 , valve assembly  200  further includes a plunger  210  slidably disposed in through-bore  204  of body portion  202 . Plunger  210  desirably includes an annular flange  212   a  extending radially outward therefrom which engages shoulder  204   c  of through-bore  204  and limits the distance plunger  210  travels in a distal direction. Desirably, valve assembly  200  includes a stop  214 , in the form of a spring clamp or the like, selectively receivable in a complementary annular groove  216  formed in through-bore  204 . Stop  214  limits the distance plunger  210  travels in a proximal direction. 
     Valve assembly  200  further includes a first gasket or O-ring  220   a  disposed in an annular groove formed in plunger  210 . Desirably, first gasket  220   a  is positioned near a distal end of plunger  210 . Valve assembly  200  includes a second gasket or O-ring  220   b  disposed in an annular groove formed in through-bore  204 . Desirably, second gasket  220   b  is positioned distally of shoulder  204   c . First and second gaskets  220   a ,  220   b  create a substantially fluid-tight seal between the outer surface of plunger  210  and the inner surface of through-bore  204 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 4 , valve assembly  200  has a first or closed condition in which plunger  210  is positioned over distal end  208   a  of channel  208  and blocks or prevents fluid from flowing therefrom. Valve assembly  200  is in the closed condition when first gasket  220   a  of plunger  210  is positioned distally of distal end  208   a  of channel  208 . Valve assembly  200  has a second or open condition in which plunger  210  is positioned proximally of distal end  208   a  of channel  208  to expose distal end  208   a  of channel  208  and permit fluid to flow from channel  208 . Valve assembly  200  is in the open condition when first gasket  220   a  of plunger  210  is positioned proximally of distal end  208   a  of channel  208 . 
     Desirably, plunger  210  is biased in such a manner so as to maintain valve assembly  200  in the closed condition. Any number of methods may be used to bias plunger  210  and thereby close valve assembly  200 , such as, for example, pneumatic means, electrical means, and mechanical means. By way of example only, and in no way to be considered limiting, a biasing member  230 , in the form of a compression spring, may be provided between a distally facing surface of body portion  202  of valve assembly  200  and a proximally facing surface of plunger  210 . In particular, as seen in  FIGS. 4-6 , valve assembly  200  may include a guide member  240  having a plate  242  configured for seating in an annular shoulder  204   d  formed at a proximal end of through-bore  204 , and a shaft  244  extending from plate  242  and into through-bore  204 . Plunger  210  desirably includes a bore or recess  212   b  formed therein and extending substantially the entire length therethrough. Desirably, spring  230  is disposed about shaft  244  of guide member  240  and within bore  212   b  of plunger  210 . Desirably, plate  242  of guide member  240  rests on stop  214 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 7 , a method of using the charging assembly of the present disclosure is shown and described. As seen in  FIG. 7 , valve assembly  200  may be mounted to surface or table top “T” by screws  250  extending through an annular flange  252  of body portion  202 . Desirably, flange  252  of body portion is positioned such that a distal end  202   a  of body portion  202  extends above the surface of table top “T” and proximal end  208   b  of channel  208  is located below the surface of table top “T”. A fluid supply line “S” is connected at a first end to channel  208  and at a second end to a source of fluid  20 . Preferably, the source of fluid is under pressure. 
     Initially, valve assembly  200  is in the closed condition, wherein plunger  210  blocks or occludes channel  208  and prevents fluid “F” from being dispensed from valve assembly  200 . An empty or substantially empty bottle  10  is then placed on valve assembly  200  such that stem  102   b  of body portion  102  of nipple assembly  100  is inserted into open distal end  206  of body portion  202  of valve assembly. As bottle  10  is placed on the surface of table top “T”, stem  102   b  of nipple assembly  100  presses on plunger  210  of valve assembly  200  and urges or moves plunger  210 , against the bias of spring  230 , in a proximal direction. Desirably, as seen in  FIG. 7 , when bottle  10  is fully placed on valve assembly  200  (i.e., bottom surface  12  of bottle  10  rests on the top surface of table top “T”), stem  102   b  of nipple assembly  100  has displaced plunger  210  of valve assembly  200  by an amount sufficient to expose distal end  208   a  of channel  208 , thereby opening valve assembly  200 . 
     With plunger  210  depressed and distal end  208   a  of channel  208  exposed, fluid “F” flows through fluid supply line “S”, through conduit  208  and into lumen  104  of body portion  102  of nipple assembly  100 . In particular, fluid “F” enters lumen  104  through the spaces defined between undulations  103  of stem  102   b  and the surface of plunger  210  and exits lumen  104  through apertures  106  formed in body portion  102  of nipple assembly  100 . Desirably, gaskets  107  create at least a substantially fluid-tight seal between the outer surface of stem  102   b  and the inner surface of through-bore  204 . 
     As fluid “F” enters lumen  104 , the force of the flow of fluid “F” moves stopper  120 , against the bias of spring  116 , in a distal direction thereby opening lumen  104  and allowing fluid “F” to enter and charge or recharge bottle  10 . When the desired amount or volume of fluid “F” has been dispensed into bottle  10 , bottle  10  is lifted off of valve assembly  200  and table top “T” to close valve assembly  200  and stop the flow of fluid “F” therefrom. 
     In particular, as bottle  10  is lifted off of table top “T” and, more particularly, valve assembly  200 , stem  102   b  of nipple assembly  100  is withdrawn from through-bore  204  of body portion  202  of valve assembly  200 . As stem  102   b  of nipple assembly  100  is withdrawn, the biasing force of spring  230 , moves plunger  210  in a distal direction. Once first gasket  220   a  of plunger  210  crosses distal end  208   a  of channel  208 , channel  208  is occluded (i.e., valve assembly  200  is closed) and fluid flow therethrough is stopped. Once the flow of fluid “F” is stopped the force of the flow of fluid “F”, acting on stopper  120 , is stopped and the biasing force of spring  116  moves stopper  120  into contact with shoulder  114  and closes lumen  104  of nipple assembly  100 . With lumen  104  of nipple assembly  100  closed, fluid “F” is prevented from leaking or backing out of bottle  10 . 
     When using the charging system of the present disclosure, bottle  10  must be vented. In other words, either an open container (i.e., the top of bottle  10  must be open or un-capped) or if the container is closed, the container must have an air vent or the like provided near an upper end thereof or the cap of the container must have an opening or be vented. 
     It is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure, that fluid “F” supplied by source  20  must first pass through a filter  22  or the like to thereby remove particles, impurities and/or contaminants. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , a valve assembly, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, is generally designated as  300 . Valve assembly  300  is substantially similar to valve assembly  200  and will only be described in detail to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation. 
     As seen in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , body portion  302  of valve assembly  300  includes a plurality of conduits or channels extending through a side thereof and in fluid communication with through-bore  204  thereof. For example, and in no way to be considered as limiting, valve assembly  300  includes a first conduit or channel  308  extending through a side of body portion  302  and in fluid communication with through-bore  204  thereof, and a second conduit or channel  318  extending through a side of body portion  302  and in fluid communication with through-bore  204  thereof. Desirably, first conduit  308  is spaced or offset a radial distance from second conduit  318 . 
     In this manner, at least two separate fluid supply lines, for delivering two different fluids, may be connected to first and second conduits  308 ,  318 . In particular, a first fluid supply line “S 1 ” may be connected to first conduit  308  and a second fluid supply line “S 2 ” may be connected to second conduit  318 . Accordingly, during use, when valve assembly  300  is in an open condition, two fluids come together and mix with one another in through-bore  204  of valve assembly  300 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 8 , valve assembly  300  has a first or closed condition in which plunger  210  is positioned over distal ends  308   a ,  318   a  of first and second conduits  308 ,  318 , respectively, and blocks or prevents fluid from flowing therefrom. In particular, valve assembly  300  is in the closed condition when first gasket  220   a  of plunger  210  is positioned distally of distal ends  308   a ,  318   a  of first and second conduits  308 ,  318 . Valve assembly  300  has a second or open condition in which plunger  210  is positioned proximally of distal ends  308   a ,  318   a  of first and second conduits  308 ,  318  to expose distal ends  308   a ,  318   a  of first and second conduits  308 ,  318  and permit a first fluid “F 1 ” and a second fluid “F 2 ” to flow from respective first and second conduits  308 ,  318 . Valve assembly  300  is in the open condition when first gasket  220   a  of plunger  210  is positioned proximally of distal ends  308   a ,  318   a  of first and second conduits  308 ,  318 . 
     When valve assembly  300  is in the open condition, first and second fluids “F 1 , F 2 ” enter through-bore  204 , are mixed together, and are forced out open distal end  206  of through-bore  204 . 
     An exemplary use of valve assembly  300  is for the filling of bottle  10  with a soft drink or the like. The soft drink is mixed by valve assembly  300  wherein first fluid “F 1 ” is carbonated water or seltzer, and second fluid “F 2 ” is a syrup of a desired soft drink flavoring, for example, cola, root beer and the like. It is further envisioned that valve assembly  300  may be used for the mixing and dispensing of alcoholic or non-alcoholic mixed drinks, juices, sports drinks, other flavored beverages and the like. It is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure for the fluid to include and not be limited to water, carbonated water, juice, tea, milk, coffee, syrups (e.g., flavored syrups), alcohols, and the like. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 10 , a charging/recharging system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, is generally designated as  1000 . Desirably, charging system  1000  includes a plurality of valve assemblies  300  mounted beneath a table top “T” or the like. Charging/recharging system  1000  further includes a nipple assembly  100  mounted to a bottom surface  12  of a bottle  10 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 10 , each valve assembly  300  is fluidly connected to at least two sources of fluid. Desirably, each valve assembly  300  is fluidly connected to a discrete or unique source of fluid “A 1 -A 3 ”, and a common source of fluid “B”. Valve assemblies  300  are connected to sources of fluid “A 1 -A 3  and B” via fluid supply lines “S”. 
     In  FIG. 10 , bottle  10  has been placed onto valve assembly  300  such that stem  102   b  of nipple assembly  100  is inserted into open distal end  206  (see  FIG. 9 ) of valve assembly  300 , as described in greater detail above. With stem  102   b  of nipple assembly  100  fluidly connected to valve assembly  300 , a first fluid “F 1 ”, from common fluid source “B”, is communicated to through-bore  204  (see  FIG. 9 ) of valve assembly  300 , and a second fluid “F 2 ”, from third fluid source “A 3 ”, is also communicated to through-bore  204 . The combined or mixed fluid “F 1  and F 2 ” are then dispensed into bottle  10  in a manner as described above. 
     By way of example only, unique sources of fluid “A 1 -A 3 ” may include syrups of differing flavors, such as, for example, cola, root beer, lemon-lime, orange, grape, cream, vanilla, cherry and the like. Meanwhile, common source of fluid “B” may include carbonated water, seltzer and the like. In this manner, bottle  10  may be filled with a desired soft drink by placing bottle  10  on the valve assembly associated with the desired soft drink flavor. It is further envisioned that bottle  10  may be filled with different combinations of soft drinks (e.g., cherry and vanilla, orange and vanilla, and the like). 
     In one embodiment, as seen in  FIG. 10 , charging/recharging system  1000  may include heat exchanging elements “C” (e.g., coolers or heaters) provided in each fluid supply line “S” to effect and/or alter the temperature of the fluid traveling therethrough. It is also envisioned that each source of fluid “A 1 -A 3  and B” may be maintained in a climate controlled environment (e.g., a cooler or the like). In either manner, the fluid being dispensed by valve assembly  300  may be chilled prior to dispensing into bottles  10 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 11-28 , a fluid dispensing system and method is shown and described for charging and/or re-charging bottles and the like. According to the present disclosure, there is provided a fluid dispensing system including a bottle assembly  500 ; a charging valve assembly  600  configured for selective operative fluid engagement with bottle assembly  500 ; and a supply assembly  700  fluidly connected to charging valve assembly  600  for supplying fluid to bottle assembly  500 . Generally, during use, the fluid dispensing system will provide fluid (e.g., chilled, heated, filtered or the like) from supply assembly  700 , through charging valve assembly  600 , to bottle assembly  500  and the like. The fluid dispensing system provides a fast, convenient manner by which to fill bottles and the like with desired fluids. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11-18 , a bottle assembly, fillable from the top or the bottom, in accordance with the present disclosure, is generally shown as  500 . As will be described in greater detail below, bottle assembly  500  includes a removable check valve in a bottom thereof for interfacing with charging valve assembly  600 , and a self-retracting drinking spout which opens and extends upward when a lever is actuated. Desirably, when the lever is released the drinking spout will fully retract into the cover. 
     As seen in  FIGS. 11-18 , bottle assembly  500  includes a vessel or body portion  502  defining a cavity  502   a  for receiving fluid therein. Bottle assembly  500  includes a cover assembly  510  removably securable to an upper end thereof via a threaded engagement. 
     Cover assembly  510  includes a lid member  512  configured and adapted to removably, selectively engage and cooperate with an upper rim  504   a  of body portion  502  of bottle assembly  500 . Cover assembly  510  further includes a spout cover  514  operatively secured to lid member  512 . Spout cover  514  includes an opening or window  514   a  through which a spout will project and/or extend. 
     Cover assembly  510  further includes a spout trigger or lever  516  operatively supported on lid member  512 . Trigger  516  includes a slide arm  518  slidably supported in lid member  512  and a resilient leg  520  extending at an angle from slide arm  518  and configured and dimensioned to contact an outer surface of body portion  502  when cover assembly  510  is attached to body portion  502 . As will be described in greater detail below, trigger  516  has a first or closed position (see  FIG. 11 ), in which, a spout  524  is maintained in spout cover  514 , and a second or opened position, in which, spout  524  projects or extends from an opening  514   a  in spout cover  514 . In particular, when trigger  516  is in the first or closed position, as seen in  FIG. 11 , in order to deploy spout  524 , trigger  516  is moved in the direction of arrow “D” (i.e., slide arm  518  is moved toward body portion  502 ) thereby biasing resilient leg  520  against body portion  502 . When use of bottle assembly  500  is complete, in order to retract spout  524 , trigger  516  is released and the bias of resilient leg  520  moves slide arm  518  in a direction opposite to arrow “D”, thus retracting spout  524  into spout cover  514 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 18 , a trigger spring  526  may be provided to bias slide arm  518  to the first position. Accordingly, as trigger  516  is manipulated from the first position to the second position, trigger spring  526  is compressed and/or biased. As such, upon release of trigger  516 , trigger spring  526  un-compresses or un-biases (i.e., extends) to return trigger  516  to the first position. 
     As seen in  FIGS. 13 ,  14  and  18 , cover assembly  510  includes a straw stand  522  pivotally connected to lid member  512 , and a spout  524  pivotally connected to an end of straw stand  522 . Straw stand  522  defines a lumen  522   a  extending therethrough. As seen in  FIG. 18 , straw stand  522  includes engaging members  522   b  extending therefrom for pivotal engagement with fingers  518   a  extending from slide arm  518  of trigger  516 . In this manner, as trigger  516  is manipulated from the first position to the second position, straw stand  522  is moved from a first position (see  FIG. 13 ) in which lumen  522   a  thereof is out of fluid engagement with a port  512   a  formed in lid member  512 , to a second position (see  FIGS. 14 and 15 ) in which lumen  522   a  thereof is in fluid engagement with port  512   a  of lid member  512 . 
     Additionally, as trigger  516  is manipulated from the first position to the second position, lumen  522   a  of straw stand  522  is moved from a first position (see  FIG. 13 ) in which lumen  522   a  thereof is out of fluid engagement with a lumen  524   a  of spout  524 , to a second position (see  FIG. 14 ) in which lumen  522   a  thereof is in fluid engagement with lumen  524   a  of spout  524 . In this manner, when in the second position, fluid may be dispensed from cavity  502   a  of body portion, out of spout  524  through straw stand  522 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 18 , a link  528  may be provided to help maintain straw stand  522  operatively connected to spout  524 . A spout lid  530  may be pivotally connected to spout cover  514  and may be configured and dimensioned to close opening  514   a  of spout cover  514  when trigger  516  is in the first or closed position. An umbrella valve  532  may be operatively supported on lid member  512  for providing venting to cavity  502   a  of body portion  502  during charging and/or recharging of the same. 
     Bottle assembly  500  includes a base assembly  540  selectively connectable with a bottom rim  504   b  of body portion  504 . As seen in FIGS.  13  and  16 - 18 , base assembly  540  includes a bottom cover  542  defining an annular channel  542   a  configured and adapted to removably snap-fit engage bottom rim  504   b  in a fluid tight manner. Bottom cover  542  defines a central opening  542   b  formed therein. 
     Base assembly  540  further includes a one-way valve assembly  544  operatively connected to bottom cover  542  and disposed over central opening  542   b . As will be described in greater detail below, one-way valve assembly  544  enables passage of fluid into cavity  502   a  of body portion  502  and not out of cavity  502   a  of body portion  502 . In particular, one-way valve assembly  544  includes a valve insert  546  which is disposed over central opening  542   b  of bottom cover  542  and which includes an opening  546   a  therethrough defined by an inner annular wall  546   b . Desirably, valve insert  546  is disposed within an annular rim  542   c  extending from bottom cover  542  and surrounding central opening  542   b  thereof. 
     One-way valve assembly  544  further includes a valve diaphragm  548  operatively disposed over valve insert  546 . Valve diaphragm  548  includes an annular wall  548   a  and a membrane  548   b  extending across annular wall  548   a . Membrane  548   b  of valve diaphragm  548  includes at least one aperture or window  548   c  formed therein. Valve diaphragm  548  is formed from an elastomeric material. Accordingly, when valve diaphragm  548  is properly secured in position, membrane  548   b  extends across an inner annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546 . Desirably, each aperture  548   c  of membrane  548   b  is disposed radially outward of annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546 . When membrane  548   b  is in contact with annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546 , a fluid tight seal is created therebetween. In order to break the fluid tight seal, membrane  548   b  must be separated from annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546 . 
     One-way valve assembly  544  further includes a valve cap  550  configured and adapted to selectively engage annular rim  542   c  of bottom cover  542 . Valve cap  550  includes a top wall  550   a  defining at least one aperture or window  550   b  therein. Valve cap  550  is configured and dimensioned such that top wall  550   a  thereof is spaced a distance from annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546 . 
     In use, when a filling nipple configured to deliver fluid is introduced into central opening  542   b  of bottom cover  542  and through opening  546   a  of valve insert  546 , a fluid tight seal is formed around an outer surface of the nipple by a seal  548   d . Seal  548   d  is desirably an integral extension of annular wall  548   a  of valve diaphragm  548 . A pressure of the fluid “F” to be delivered to cavity  502   a  of body portion, which is greater than a predetermined pressure (e.g. greater than about 10 psi or 68.95 pascal), causes membrane  548   b  to separate from annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546  and permits fluid to flow between membrane  548   b  and annular wall  546   b , through apertures  548   c , and out through apertures  550   b  of valve cap  550  into cavity  502   a  of body portion  502 . Once the pressure of the fluid is reduced below a predetermined level, membrane  548   b  re-engages or returns into contact with annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546  to once again create the fluid tight seal therebetween and prevent leakage of fluid from cavity  502   a  of body portion  502  back through one-way valve assembly  540 . 
     Alternatively, it is envisioned that a tip of the filling nipple may press into membrane  548   b  which in turn causes membrane  548   b  to separate from annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 19-22 , a charging valve assembly, for use with and for filling or re-filling bottle assembly  500 , is generally shown as  600 . Charging valve assembly  600  includes a bung or fitting  602  including a stem  602   a  for connection to a fluid supply line and defining a fluid passage  602   b  therethrough. 
     Charging valve assembly  600  further includes a dispenser manifold  604  including a base wall  606  defining a central opening  606   a  and an annular rim  606   b  extending from a bottom of base wall  606  and around central opening  606   a . Annular rim  606   b  is configured and dimensioned to fluidly connect with fitting  602  and to establish fluid communication between fluid passage  602   b  of fitting  602  and central opening  606   a  of dispenser manifold  604 . Dispenser manifold  604  includes an annular outer wall  608  extending upwardly from base wall  606  and thus defines a recess  608   a  therein. Dispenser manifold  604  further includes a nipple  610  extending upwardly from base wall  606  and in fluid communication with central opening  606   a  of base wall  606 . Nipple  610  defines a fluid passage or lumen  610   a  extending therethrough and an aperture  610   b  formed in an upper surface thereof. 
     Charging valve assembly  600  further includes a plunger  612  slidably supported within lumen  610   a  of nipple  610 , central opening  606   a  of dispenser manifold  604 , and fluid passage  602   b  of fitting  602 . Plunger  612  includes at least one arm  612   a  extending radially outwardly from nipple  610  and into recess  608   a  of dispenser manifold  604 . Plunger  612  further includes a plug  612   b  configured and dimensioned to mate with and/or selectively occlude opening  610   b  of nipple  610 . Plunger  612  defines a lumen or passage  614  therethrough and terminating in an upper annular passage  614   a . Annular passage  614   a  is disposed radially outward of plug  612   b.    
     Desirably, a plurality of seals or O-rings is disposed about plunger  612 . In particular, a first seal  616   a  is disposed about plug  612   b  to create a fluid tight seal between opening  610   a  in nipple  610  and plug  612   b  of plunger  612 , a second seal  616   b  is disposed about plunger  612 , above arms  612   a , to create a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of plunger  612  and an inner surface of nipple  610  within lumen  610   a , and a third seal  616   c  is disposed about plunger  612 , below arms  612   a , to create a fluid tight seal between an outer surface of plunger  612  and in inner surface of fitting  602  within lumen  602   b.    
     A spring member  618  may be provided to bias plunger  612  to an occluded position against nipple  610 . In particular, when in the occluded position, plug  612   b  of plunger  612  occludes opening  610   b  of nipple  610 . In order to open opening  610   b  of nipple  610  arms  612   a  of plunger  612  are depressed in the direction of arrow “E”, biasing spring member  618  and separating plug  612   b  from opening  610   b , thus allowing fluid to flow through lumen  602   b  of fitting  602 , through lumen  614  of plunger  612  and out through opening  610   a  of nipple  610 . 
     Charging valve assembly  600  includes a plunger cap  620  configured and dimensioned for receipt in recess  608   a  of dispenser manifold  604  and for engagement with arms  612   a  of plunger  612 . Plunger cap  620  includes a central opening  620   a  configured and dimensioned to receive nipple  610  therein. Plunger cap  620  may include a spring member  622  for spring biasing to a raised condition. 
     Charging valve assembly  600  includes a nut  624  and a washer  626  for securing dispenser manifold  604 , from beneath, to a surface (e.g., a counter or the like), in a fluid tight arrangement. A gasket  628  may be provided for placement between bottom wall  606  of dispenser manifold  604  and an upper surface of the counter. 
     Desirably, charging valve assembly  600  has a low profile. 
     As seen in  FIG. 22A , use of charging valve assembly  600  with bottle assembly  500 , entails placement of base assembly  540  of bottle assembly  500  onto charging valve assembly  600  such that central opening  542   b  of base assembly  540  is aligned with nipple  610  of charging valve assembly  600 . Bottle assembly  500  is then pressed down onto charging valve assembly  600  such that bottle assembly  500  presses down on plunger cap  620 , which in turn presses down on plunger  612 , while concomitantly therewith, nipple  610  enters central opening  542   b  of bottom cover  542  and plug  612   b  of plunger  612  is spaced from opening  610   b  of nipple  610 . With bottle assembly  500  so positioned on charging valve assembly  600  a fluid tight seal is created between seal  548   d  and an outer surface of nipple  610 . As mentioned above, the force of the fluid “F” being delivered by charging valve  600  results in membrane  548   b  separating from annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546 . As so positioned, a fluid flow channel for fluid “F” is created through fitting  602 , through plunger  612 , through nipple  610 , through one-way valve assembly  540  (i.e., through valve insert  546 , through apertures  548   c  of membrane  548   b  and through apertures  550   b  of valve cap  550 ) of bottle assembly  500 . 
     Desirably, the fluid is under pressure so as to force the fluid into cavity  502   a  of body portion  502 . Once the desired amount of fluid is introduced into cavity  502   a  of bottle  500  or cavity  502   a  of bottle  500  is filled, bottle assembly  500  is lifted off of charging valve assembly  600 . Accordingly, plug  612   b  is re-inserted into opening  610   b  of nipple  610  and the flow of fluid “F” is cut-off thereby allowing for membrane  548   b  to return into contact with annular wall  546   b  of valve insert  546  and prevent the escape of leakage of fluid “F” from within cavity  502   a  of bottle  500 . The process may be repeated as many times as necessary to charge and re-charge bottle assemblies  500 . 
     In order to fill other vessels other than bottle assemblies  500 , charging valve assembly  600  may include a faucet tube  630  removably connectable to dispenser manifold  604  and nipple  610 . Faucet tube  630  may be connected to dispenser manifold  604  through a faucet tube base  632 , a duckbill valve  634 , and a series of O-rings  636 . A faucet bumper  638  may be provided for the tip of faucet tube  630 . 
     It is envisioned and within the present disclosure that any vessel for containing fluid may be adapted for bottom filling (e.g., include a one-way valve assembly operatively provided in a bottom surface thereof). For example, it is envisioned that bottles, faucet taps, juggs, mugs, cups, thermoses, vases, tubs, bowls, pots, planters, and the like may be provided with a one-way valve assembly for filling from the bottoms thereof. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 23-29 , a supply assembly for providing fluid and the like to charging valve assembly  600  is shown generally as  700 . Supply assembly  700  includes a housing  702  having a first and second half-portion  702   a ,  702   b , respectively. A series of spreaders  704  and screws  706  are used to secure the housing half-portions  702   a ,  702   b  to one another. A mounting bracket  708  may be provided for supporting housing  702  and anchoring housing  702  to a wall or the like. 
     Supply assembly  700  includes a hydraulic assembly  710  supported within housing  702  for pressurizing the fluid to be delivered to charging valve assembly  600 . An LED display  712  may be provided which is supported in housing  702  and which provided individuals with information regarding the status of supply assembly  700 , such as, for example, status of filters, fluid temperature, etc. 
     Supply assembly  700  includes a tank assembly  714  supported in housing  702  which stores and or retains a quantity of pre-conditioned fluid. In other words, tank assembly  714  contains fluid which has already been cooled and filtered and which is ready for dispensing. Tank assembly  714  is fluidly connectably with hydraulic assembly  710 . A fan plate assembly  716  may be provided and may be in operative engagement with tank assembly  714  in order to help maintain the fluid contained within tank assembly  714 , cool. 
     Supply assembly  700  may include a removable filter assembly  720  which is configured and dimensioned for operative connection with housing  702  and for fluid engagement with hydraulic assembly  710 . 
     As seen in  FIGS. 24 and 25 , hydraulic assembly  710  includes, inter alia, a support body  722 , a solenoid shut-off  724  operatively connectable with a fitting  722   a  of support body  722 . A pressure regulator  726  is connected to solenoid shut-off  724  and a supply line  728  is connected to pressure regulator  726 . Support body  722  includes additional fittings  722   b ,  722   c  for supplying fluid to filter assembly  720  and for returning fluid from filter assembly  720 . Supply assembly  700  may include a solenoid filter  730  in fluid engagement with solenoid shut-off  724 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 26 , LED display  712  includes a lite pipe  712   a , and a plurality of LEDS  712   b  operatively associated with lite pipe  712   a  and supported on a printed circuit board (PCB)  712   c . A cable ribbon  712   d  connects PCB  712   b  to a controller or the like (not shown). PCB  712   b  monitors and keeps track of the number of uses of supply assembly  700  and/or the life of filter assembly  720 , and then transmits that information to LED display  712  in order to indicate to the user when a change of the filters of filter assembly  720  may be warranted. 
     As seen in  FIG. 27 , tank assembly  714  includes an insulated housing  740  including an insulated top  740   a . Tank assembly  714  includes a reservoir  742  defining a volume for retaining fluid therein. Reservoir  742  is divided into a first chamber  742   a  and a second chamber  742   b  by a screen or filter  744 . First heat sinks  746  may be provided which extending in to chambers  742   a ,  742   b  of reservoir  742  and help to cool fluid contained therein. Second heat sinks  748 , operatively connected to first heat sinks  746  through peltiers  750 , are provided to dissipate the heat with the air. As seen in  FIG. 28 , a fan plate assembly  716  may be provided which is in operative engagement with second heat sinks  748  for enhancing the cooling thereof. 
     In use, hydraulic assembly  710  forces fluid through reservoir  742  for cooling and initial filtering. 
     As seen in  FIG. 29 , filter assembly  720  includes a housing  760  configured and adapted to removably retain a sediment filter  762  and a carbon-block filter  764  therein. In use, fluid is pumped from hydraulic assembly  710  through reservoir  742  and through filter assembly  720 , in any order desired, prior to transmission to charging valve assembly  600 . 
     It is envisioned that supply assembly  700  may be provided with an automatic filter replacement mechanism or the like. In use, when it is time to replace either of sediment filter  762 , carbon-block filter  764  or any other filter, an indicator signal alerts the user that such a change is necessary. The user then presses a first button or switch (e.g., a change filter button/switch) which automatically activates/manipulates the water supply valve to turn off the water supply, and which automatically activates/manipulates a release mechanism which automatically disconnects the filter from the water supply or the like (i.e., rotates the filter to unlock the filter). The user then exchanges the used filter with a new filter. Once the new filter is in position, the user presses a second button/switch which automatically activates/manipulates the release mechanism to thereby lock the new filter into fluid communication with the water supply, to open the water supply valve, and to reset the counter. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 30-49 , a bottle assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is generally designated as  1000 . As seen in  FIG. 30 , bottle assembly  1000  includes a body portion  1010 , a top lid assembly  1100  configured and adapted for selective connection to an upper rim or edge of body portion  1010 ; and a bottom lid assembly  1200  configured and adapted for selective connection to a lower rim or edge of body portion  1010 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 30 , body portion  1010  defines a cavity  1012  for receiving, retaining and/or storing a fluid therein. Body portion  1010  is ergonomically formed to accommodate a hand of a user during use and manipulation of bottle assembly  1000 . Body portion  1010  includes an upper rim  1014   a  configured and adapted to operatively engage top lid assembly  1100 ; and a bottom rim  1014   b  configured and adapted to operatively engage bottom lid assembly  1200 . It is envisioned that each of upper rim  1014   a  and bottom rim  1014   b  may include a thread for engaging a complementary thread provided on or in top lid assembly  1100  and bottom lid assembly  1200 , respectively. It is further envisioned that each of upper rim  1014   a  and bottom rim  1014   b  and each of top lid assembly  1100  and bottom lid assembly  1200 , may include any complementary engaging structure, such as, for example, bayonet-type structure, screw threads and the like. 
     With particular reference to  FIGS. 30-46 , a detailed description of top lid assembly  1100  will now be provided. Top lid assembly  1100  includes a spout cover  1110  supported on or snap-fit engaged to a spout bottom lid  1112 , which spout bottom lid  1112  is configured and adapted to operatively engage upper rim  1014   a  of body portion  1010 . As best seen in  FIGS. 34 and 35 , spout cover  1110  defines a window  1114  formed therein, through which a spout is selectively deployable, as will be described in greater detail below. 
     Top lid assembly  1100  includes a spout lid  1116  operatively associated with spout cover  1110  to selectively close and open window  1114  formed therein and allow for the spout to extend or be deployed therefrom. Spout lid  1116  includes a pair of pivot bosses  1118  extending outwardly from a support arm  1120  extending from a bottom surface of flap  1122 . Spout lid  1116  is pivotable from a first condition, as seen in  FIG. 32 , in which flap  1122  of spout lid  1116  closes window  1114  of spout cover  1110  to a second condition, as seen in  FIG. 33 , in which flap  1122  of spout lid  1116  opens window  1114  of spout cover  1110  to enable a spout to extend therefrom. 
     It is envisioned that top lid assembly  1100  may include structure or the like for maintaining spout lid  1116  in the first or closed condition or for automatically returning spout lid  1116  to the closed condition following opening thereof. For example, top lid assembly  1100  may include a biasing member  1124  for accomplishing such an automatic closing function. In particular, as seen in  FIG. 34 , top lid assembly  1100  may include a torsion spring  1124  which is supported on one of pivot bosses  1118  and which includes a first arm thereof for engaging a ledge  1126  provided on spout lid  1116  and a second arm thereof for engaging structure of top lid assembly  1100  other than spout lid  1116 . In this manner, in operation, torsion spring  1124  will tend to maintain spout lid  1116  in the closed condition as described above. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 32-34  and  37 , top lid assembly  1100  includes a cam member  1130  operatively supported between spout cover  1110  and spout bottom lid  1112 . As seen in  FIGS. 34 and 37 , cam member  1130  includes a pair of spaced apart, elongate, linear slots  1132  formed therein for slidably and pivotably receiving pivot bosses  1118  of spout lid  1116 . Cam member  1130  further defines a pair of spaced apart cam slots  1134  formed therein for guiding and facilitating deployment and retraction of the spout out of and into spout cover  1110 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 32-34  and  38 - 41 , top lid assembly  1100  further includes a spout  1140  supported in cam member  1130 . Spout  1140  defines a lumen  1142  extending therethrough and at least one guide pin  1144  extending outwardly therefrom. Desirably, a pair of guide pins  1144  are provided which slidably engage cam slots  1134  of cam member  1130 . Spout  1140  is ergonomically shaped so as to be better received between the lips of a user. In particular, spout  1140  has a generally conical or frusto-conical outer profile which expands in a distal direction. It is further envisioned that lumen  1142  may have a generally ovular or elliptical inner profile or the like. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 32-34  and  38 - 41 , top lid assembly  1100  further includes a straw stand  1150  pivotably supported between spout bottom lid  1112  and cam member  1130 . Straw stand  1150  includes a central body portion  1152 , a first lobe  1154   a  integrally formed at a first end  1152   a  of central body portion  1152 , a second lobe  1154   b  integrally formed at a second end  1152   b  of central body portion  1152 , and a lumen  1156  extending entirely therethrough. First lobe  1154   a  of straw stand  1150  includes a pair of pivot bosses  1158   a  formed on either side thereof for engaging pivot openings  1148   a  formed in lobe  1148  of spout  1140 . Second lobe  1154   b  of straw stand  1150  is slidably seating within a complementary arcuate recess  1168  formed in a top surface of spout bottom lid  1112 . Second lobe  1154   b  of straw stand  1150  may include a pair of pivot bosses  1158   b  formed on either side thereof for engaging pivot points defines between cam member  1130  and spout bottom lid  1112 . 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 30-46 , top lid assembly  1100  further includes a trigger assembly  1170  for actuating or moving spout  1140  between an extended condition and a retracted condition. Trigger assembly  1170  includes a spout driver  1172  slidably supported between spout cover  1110  and spout bottom lid  1112 . Spout driver  1172  includes a proximal end  1172   b  extending from spout bottom lid  1112 , and a distal end  1172   a  defining a pair of tines  1174  configured and adapted to engage straw stand  1150 . In particular, each tine  1174  of spout driver  1172  includes a bore  1176  formed near a distal end thereof for pivotably receiving and/or engaging a pivot pin  1159  extending from central body portion  1152  of straw stand  1150 . 
     In use or operation, with spout  1140  in the retracted condition and with spout cover  1110  in the closed condition, as spout driver  1172  is moved in the direction of arrow “A”, as seen in  FIGS. 31 and 32  (i.e., into spout cover  1110 ), straw stand  1150  is caused to be rotated about pivot bosses  1158   b  of second lobe  1158   b . In so doing, guide pins  1144  of spout  1140  are caused to be slidably advanced through cam slots  1134  of cam member  1130  and spout  1140  pivots about pivot bosses  1158   a  of first lobe  1154   a  of straw stand  1150 . As such, spout  1140  lifts up spout flap  1116  and extends out of spout cover  1110 . 
     When spout  1140  is in the extended condition, as seen in  FIG. 33 , lumen  1142  of spout  1140  is in fluid communication with lumen  1156  of straw stand  1150  which is, in turn, in fluid communication with a port  1166  formed in recess  1168  of spout bottom lid  1112 . Desirably, a straw  1190  (see  FIGS. 32 and 34 ) is connected to port  1166  and extends down through cavity  1012  of body portion  1010 . In this manner, fluid may be withdrawn from cavity  1012  of body portion  1010 . 
     In order to retract or withdraw spout  1140  back into spout cover  1110 , spout driver  1172  is moved in a direction opposite to arrow “A” thus causing straw stand to once again be rotated about pivot bosses  1158   b  of second lobe  1158   b . In so doing, guide pins  1144  of spout  1140  are caused to be slidably retracted through cam slots  1134  of cam member  1130  and spout  1140  pivots about pivot bosses  1158   a  of first lobe  1154   a  of straw stand  1150 . As such, spout  1140  pulls back, withdraws or retracts into spout cover  1110  and spout flap  1116  automatically closes, as described in detail above. With spout  1140  withdrawn into spout cover  1110 , the fluid communication between lumen  1142  of spout  1140  and port  1166  of spout bottom lid  1112  is disrupted and no fluid may pass through port  1166 . In fact, as seen in  FIG. 32 , second lobe  1154   b  of straw stand  1150  function to occlude port  1166  when spout  1140  is in the withdrawn or retracted condition. 
     With spout  1140  in the retracted condition, spout  1140  is protected from exposure to the elements and/or from exposure to the outside environment. In this manner, contamination of spout  1140  is reduced and/or eliminated. 
     It is contemplated that the retraction or withdrawal of spout  1140  back into spout cover  1110  may be accomplished automatically upon the release of spout driver  1172 . For example, a biasing member  1192  (e.g., a compression spring) may be disposed between spout driver  1172  and a surface or shoulder  1112   a  of bottom spout lid  1112  or any other element of top lid assembly  1100 . 
     As seen in  FIGS. 30-34 , proximal end  1172   b  of spout driver  1172  operatively supports a spout trigger  1178  via a pin  1179  or the like. As seen in  FIGS. 31-33  and  44 , spout trigger  1178  may include a plurality of spaced apart nubs  1178   a  formed along a length thereof which define spaces therebetween for receiving the fingers of a user. 
     In use, deployment and retraction of spout  1140  out of and/or into spout cover  1110  is accomplished by single handed operation. In other words, the deployment of spout  1140  from spout cover  1110  is accomplished by squeezing spout trigger  1178  with a single hand, i.e., moving spout trigger  1178  toward body portion  1010 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 34 ,  42  and  43 , spout bottom lid  1112  includes a pair of venting regions  1112   b ,  1112   c  formed therein. Preferably, venting regions  1112   b ,  1112   c  include pores which extend through the surface of spout bottom lid  1112 . Top lid assembly  1100  further includes a pair of umbrella valves  1113   b  and  1113   c  operatively associated with venting regions  1112   b ,  1112   c , respectively. In particular, a first umbrella valve  1113   b  is positioned on an upper surface of venting region  1112   b  and a second umbrella valve  1113   c  is positioned on a bottom surface of venting region  1112   c . In use, umbrella valves  1113   b ,  1113   c  cooperate with one another to provide venting into and out of cavity  1012  of body portion  1010  during charging, recharging, draining and/or emptying of bottle assembly  1000 . 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 47 and 48 , a detailed discussion of bottom lid assembly  1200  is provided. Bottom lid assembly  1200  is substantially similar to base assembly  540  and thus will only be described herein in detail to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation. 
     Bottom lid assembly  1200  includes a bottom cover  1242  defining an annular channel  1242   a  configured and adapted to threadingly engage bottom rim  1014   b  of body portion  1010  in a fluid tight manner. Bottom cover  1242  defines a central opening  1242   b  formed therein. 
     Bottom lid assembly  1200  further includes a one-way valve assembly  1244  operatively connected to bottom cover  1242  and disposed over central opening  1242   b . As will be described in greater detail below, one-way valve assembly  1244  enables passage of fluid into cavity  1012  of body portion  1010  and not out of cavity  1012  of body portion  1010 . In particular, one-way valve assembly  1244  includes a valve insert  1246  which is disposed over or in central opening  1242   b  of bottom cover  1242  and which includes an opening  1246   a  therethrough defined by an inner annular wall  1246   b . Desirably, valve insert  1246  is disposed within an annular rim  1242   c  extending from bottom cover  1242  and surrounding central opening  1242   b  thereof. 
     One-way valve assembly  1244  further includes a valve diaphragm  1248  operatively disposed over valve insert  1246 . Valve diaphragm  1248  includes an annular wall  1248   a  and a membrane  1248   b  extending across annular wall  1248   a . Membrane  1248   b  of valve diaphragm  1248  includes at least one aperture or window  1248   c  formed therein. Valve diaphragm  1248  is formed from an elastomeric material. Accordingly, when valve diaphragm  1248  is properly secured in position, membrane  1248   b  extends across inner annular wall  1246   b  of valve insert  1246 . Desirably, each aperture  1248   c  of membrane  1248   b  is disposed radially outward of inner annular wall  1246   b  of valve insert  1246 . When membrane  1248   b  is in contact with inner annular wall  1246   b  of valve insert  1246 , a fluid tight seal is created therebetween. In order to break the fluid tight seal, membrane  1248   b  must be separated from inner annular wall  1246   b  of valve insert  1246 . 
     One-way valve assembly  1244  further includes a valve cap  1250  configured and adapted to selectively engage annular rim  1242   c  of bottom cover  1242 . Valve cap  1250  includes a top wall  1250   a  defining at least one aperture or window  1250   b  therein. Valve cap  1250  is configured and dimensioned such that top wall  1250   a  thereof is spaced a distance from annular wall  1246   b  of valve insert  1246 . 
     In use, when a filling nipple, configured to deliver fluid, is introduced into central opening  1242   b  of bottom cover  1242  and fluid is forced out of the nipple, the fluid pressure acts on membrane  1248   b  thus separating membrane  1248   b  from annular wall  1246   b  of valve insert  1246  and permits fluid to flow between membrane  1248   b  and annular wall  1246   b , through apertures  1248   c , and out through apertures  1250   b  of valve cap  1250  into cavity  1012  of body portion  1010 . Once the tip of the filling nipple is withdrawn and the fluid pressure is reduced and/or cut-off, membrane  1248   b  re-engages or returns into contact with annular wall  1246   b  of valve insert  1246  to once again create the fluid tight seal therebetween and prevent leakage of fluid from cavity  1012  of body portion  1010  back through one-way valve assembly  1240 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 49 , bottle assembly  1000  may include a bottom cover  1342  which does not include any apertures or openings formed in a center thereof. 
     While several particular forms of the charging/recharging system have been illustrated and described, it will also be apparent that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. 
     Thus, it should be understood that various changes in form, detail and application of the charging/recharging system of the present disclosure may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.