Patent ID: 12256864

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The cocktail shaker of the present invention provides a portable drink holder which lowers the temperature of the drink at the selected time by the user. The drink, e.g., an alcoholic beverage, is carried within a sealed receptacle of the drink holder and the user opens the receptacle when desired to allow flow of the liquid through the cooling system of the drink holder and into another receptacle which forms a drinking cup. That is, the drink (liquid) is contained within the drink holder (shaker) at a first temperature, e.g., room temperature, and when desired, is passed through the cooling system of the drink holder to cool the liquid, e.g., alcohol, to a reduced temperature to provide a cooled drink, e.g. a cooled cocktail, in a cocktail-like glass. The receptacle which forms the drinking glass can also contain ingredients such as a garnish, e.g., a cherry, lemon, etc., which mixes with the cooled liquid to provide the cocktail. In this manner, a cooled cocktail can be made at the site. The drink holder is light weight and portable so it can be brought to restaurants, sporting events, social gatherings, and other locations/events to provide cooled drinks.

The drink holder (cocktail shaker) can be composed of non-disposable materials, such as stainless steel wherein it can be washed and reused after use, or alternatively, composed of disposable materials wherein it is discarded after use. Both of these versions/embodiments are discussed in detail below.

Referring now in detail to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identify similar or like components throughout the several views,FIGS.1-9Eshow one embodiment of the cocktail shaker of the present invention. The cocktail shakers disclosed herein are also referred to herein as drink holders, and since the shakers are portable, also referred to herein as portable shakers or portable drink holders. The drink holder is designated generally by reference numeral10and includes a top reservoir12, a bottom reservoir20and a cooling system14between the top reservoir12and bottom reservoir20to thereby form a middle or intermediate cooling section. The cooling system14includes a cooling cartridge16and an insulating sleeve18which encircles the cooling cartridge16to help maintain the cold temperature of the cooling cartridge16. The top reservoir12holds a liquid (drink such as alcohol) at a first temperature, e.g., room temperature, the cooling system14cools the liquid to a lower temperature as the liquid passes through the cooling system14, and the bottom reservoir20receives the cooled liquid (drink) from the cooling system14and forms a drinking cup for the liquid, e.g., cocktail.

InFIGS.1and2, the shaker (holder) is shown with the components assembled such that the top reservoir12is mounted to and sits atop the cooling system14and the bottom reservoir18sits underneath and is mounted to the bottom of the cooling system14. Thus, the terms “top” and “bottom” as used herein refer to the orientation of the holder inFIGS.1and2. In this orientation, the top can also be referred to as the proximal end (where the liquid is initially contained) and the bottom can also be referred to as the distal end (where the liquid flows into from the cooling system14). The “top” and “proximal” thus denote the position of the liquid prior to cooling and the “bottom” and “distal” denote the position of the liquid after cooling. Clearly, if the orientation of the drink holder10changes, the top and bottom would change accordingly.

Turning now in more detail to the individual components of the drink holder10, and turning first to the top reservoir12, the top reservoir12includes a top surface22, a receptacle24to hold the liquid, an outer surface or wall28and a bottom surface30. The bottom surface30has openings to communicate with the cooling system as described in detail below. The top reservoir12is removably mounted over the cooling system14and can be mounted to the insulating sleeve18as shown, or alternatively, mounted to the cooling cartridge16, e.g., connected to the lip of the cartridge16. In one embodiment, the top reservoir12snaps onto the cooling system14for securement thereto. In an alternative embodiment, the top reservoir12and cooling system14are attached by a twist lock, e.g., the top reservoir is placed over the lip of the cooling cartridge16and locked by a ¼ turn. Other ways to removably secure the top reservoir to the cooling system are also contemplated. The top reservoir12can include a series of spaced ribs27on its outer wall28to provide a gripping surface to facilitate handling, e.g., tightening and loosening of the top reservoir12on the cooling system14. It is also contemplated that other types of projecting surfaces or irregular surfaces can be provided to facilitate gripping of the top reservoir12by the user. Contained (stored) within the top reservoir12is the cocktail (or other drink). The components of the cocktail flow through the cooling system14to be chilled as described in detail below. Note the liquid in the first reservoir12can be for example a single alcoholic beverage or a multiple alcoholic beverages. Thus, the term liquid used herein denotes one or more drinks or beverages which are contained within the first reservoir12. It should also be noted in preferred embodiments the liquid is an alcoholic beverage, however, it is also contemplated that non-alcoholic liquids or beverages can be used.

The top reservoir12also includes a seal to retain the liquid in the receptacle. That is, the top reservoir is sealed to allow the liquid ingredients to remain in place until ready to be allowed to flow through the middle cooling mechanism and drink the cocktail. In the embodiment ofFIG.1, the seal includes a disk which spans the opening in the receptacle24. The disk has a plurality of openings which in a sealed position are out of alignment with the tubes (described below) of the cooling cartridge16. To open the seal, the disk is rotated so the openings align with the openings in the tubes. Stated another way, the top reservoir12is separated from the middle cooling mechanism by a seal. The seal ensures the liquid ingredients remain in place within the top reservoir12until ready to be allowed to flow through the middle cooling mechanism for drinking of the cocktail. The seal is released when the top reservoir12is turned to allow alignment of the openings and the liquid to flow through the cooling mechanism. It should be appreciated that the foregoing provides one example of a seal, as other seals can be utilized.

FIG.11Ashows an example where two openings for liquid flow are provided when the seal is open. More specifically, in this embodiment, top reservoir, designated generally by reference numeral112, has a cup113, an upper disk114with a post116, a rotatable disk118, an O-ring seal120mounted on disk118, a threaded ring122and a twist cap124. In a first position, openings119of rotatable disk are out of alignment with openings117of upper disk114. (The openings121of O-ring120are aligned with the openings of the disk118). To open the seal so liquid can flow from the cup113into the cooling reservoir, the disk118is rotated by turning twist cap124so openings119of rotatable disk118are in alignment with openings117of upper disk114. It should be appreciated that in this embodiment, the lower disk118is rotated to align the holes, but in an alternative embodiment, the upper disk114could be rotated to align the holes with the lower disk118to move the seal from the closed to the open position to allow flow.

Turning now to the bottom reservoir20of drink holder10, also referred to herein as a drinking cup or cocktail glass, and when used with alcohol, as a cocktail glass, as noted above, the bottom reservoir20is mounted to a bottom portion of the cooling system14. The bottom reservoir20has a receptacle40with an opening41. A base44enables the bottom reservoir20to stand on a table or other surface, either as a separate unit or when assembled to the drink holder12to support the drink holder10in an upright position. The bottom reservoir20is removably mounted over a bottom region (portion) of the cooling system14and can be mounted to the insulating sleeve18as shown, or alternatively mounted to the cooling cartridge16. In one embodiment, the bottom reservoir20snaps onto the cooling system14for securement thereto. In an alternative embodiment, the bottom reservoir20and cooling system14are attached by a twist lock, e.g., the bottom reservoir20is placed over the lip of the cooling cartridge16and locked by a ¼ turn. Other ways to removably secure the bottom reservoir20to the cooling system are also contemplated. The bottom reservoir20can include ribs48on its outer surface (wall)45to provide a gripping surface to facilitate handling, e.g., tightening and loosening of the bottom reservoir18on the cooling system14. It is also contemplated that other types of projecting surfaces or irregular surfaces can be provided to facilitate gripping of the bottom reservoir20by the user. If desired, one or more ingredients such as a garnish for the cocktail (or other drink), e.g., a cherry, can be contained (stored) within the bottom reservoir20. The components of the cocktail flow from the top reservoir12through the cooling system14where they are chilled and delivered to the bottom reservoir20to provide a cooled cocktail for drinking. The bottom receptacle forms a cup that serves as the cocktail glass. The desired garnish may be placed in the bottom receptacle in preparation of the cocktail being decanted into the glass.

It should be appreciated that the shaker is described herein for providing alcoholic drinks/cocktails. However, the shaker can also be utilized to provide non-alcoholic chilled drinks/cocktails.

Turning now to the cooling system14at the middle section of the drink holder12, as noted above, the cooling system14includes a cooling cartridge16and an insulating sleeve18surrounding at least a portion of the cooling cartridge16to insulate the cooling medium to reduce its temperature rise when the cooling cartridge16is removed from the freezer for use. The cooling system14enables the liquid from the top reservoir12to be chilled as it flows through the system. This cooling system (mechanism)14, e.g., the cooling cartridge16, is stored or placed in the freezer until ready to be used.

The cooling medium for chilling, i.e., lowering the temperature of the liquid as it passes therethrough, can in some embodiments be a water-based cellulose gum refrigerant such as P600 Gel Concentrate sold by Cold Ice, Inc. or VWR Product sold by Cold Chain Technologies, Inc. As can be appreciated, other cooling mediums are also contemplated. In some embodiments, the cooling medium can be chilled to less than 0 degrees Fahrenheit to allow for the liquid, e.g., cocktail, to be chilled to a desirable temperature of approximately 32 degrees Fahrenheit after passing (draining) through the chilling mechanism once. Additionally, other temperatures are also contemplated.

The insulating sleeve18in some embodiments has a double wall construction with an outer surface or wall53and an inner surface or wall52spaced from the inner wall to create a gap therebetween which can include a vacuum insulation. Note constructions other than the double wall construction are also contemplated. The insulating sleeve18has a receptacle54to receive the cooling cartridge16so it surrounds at least a portion, and preferably a substantial portion, or an entire portion, of the outer wall17of the cooling cartridge16. In this manner, the cooling cartridge16sits within the receptacle54with the insulating sleeve18reducing the temperature rise of the cooling cartridge16after removal from the freezer. The insulating sleeve18can have internal guides or spacers, such as in the form of the longitudinally extending ribs56ofFIG.3to help guide the cartridge16into the insulating sleeve18. The insulating sleeve18could in some embodiments have a taper, tapering in a distal direction, i.e., tapering toward the bottom portion, to help retain the cooling cartridge16therein. In some embodiments, placement of the bottom reservoir20over the insulating sleeve18can also help hold the sleeve18onto the cooling cartridge16as the bottom reservoir20is inserted over the bottom portion of the insulating sleeve18.

The advantage of the insulating vacuum sleeve can be appreciated by the chart ofFIG.19which provides a sample test of the vacuum sleeve. In the absence of the vacuum sleeve, the temperature of the cooling cartridge (y axis) rises from its initial 5 degrees to 44.1 degrees in a little over thirty minutes (x axis). The 44.1 degree temperature is insufficient to provide the desired chilled drink. As further shown, after 30 minutes the temperature continues to spike to 68.6 degrees (close to room temperature). In contrast, with the use of the vacuum sleeve insulator, the temperature of the cooling cartridge, with an initial start temperature of 5 degrees, will take close to 90 minutes to rise to 32.7 degrees, and spike to 70.3 degrees rise. That is, only after 90 minutes will the temperature rise significantly to lose the chilled effect on the drink. Thus, as shown in this test, the cooling cartridge with the insulating sleeve can last three times longer than without the sleeve.

In an alternate embodiment, the bottom reservoir20has an insulator to help maintain a cooler temperature. The insulator can be integral with the reservoir or mounted to the reservoir.FIGS.12G-12Jillustrate an example of such embodiment and are discussed in detail below.

Turning now to the cooling cartridge16of the embodiment ofFIG.1, as shown inFIGS.8-9E, cooling cartridge16has top cap or cover60, a receptacle80to receive a plurality of internal longitudinally extending tubes84, and a bottom cap or cover70. The receptacle80has a top opening82and a bottom opening85. A cooling medium, such as a gel discussed above, fills the receptacle80, surrounding the individual tubes84. The tubes84extend longitudinally along a length of the receptacle80and in the illustrated embodiment, are independent and not in fluid communication with one another, although in alternate embodiments, one or more of the tubes can be in fluid communication. Thus, the tubes provide passageways through the cooling gel (or other cooling medium). The tubes are preferably spaced apart a sufficient distance so as not to impact an adjacent tube which could cause undesired temperature rise. That is, if the tubes84are too close, they can heat up around the tubes, thereby decreasing cooling efficiency. Stated another away, the more cooling gel between the tubes, the greater the chance of maintaining cooling effectiveness.

Each of the tubes84has a proximal or top opening87for fluid communication with the top reservoir12and a distal or proximal opening88for fluid communication with the bottom reservoir20. In this manner the liquid flows through the tubes84into the bottom reservoir20. To facilitate such flow, the top cap60, which in some embodiments can be disc shaped as shown to span the diameter of the receptacle80, can have a plurality of funnels62, illustratively conically shaped, and tapering (funneling) toward the top openings of the tube87. This facilitates flow into the tubes84. The funnels62are secured to the tubes84. The bottom cover70, which in some embodiments is disc shaped to span the diameter of the receptacle80can be arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the receptacle80as shown, can have a plurality of posts72attached to the bottom of the tubes84. These tubes, forming multiple narrow channels surrounded by the cooling mechanism allow for efficient cooling as they maximize the surface area for chilling with a single pass through the cooling cartridge16.

In an alternate embodiment, the bottom cover70can include a plurality of funnels, conically shaped and tapering proximally toward the proximal openings88in the tubes84. These funnels can facilitate passage back through the tubes84to further cool the liquid as described in alternate embodiments discussed below.

The number of tubes84selected for the cooling cartridge is dependent on the amount of liquid desired to be stored in the drink holder10, the desired end temperature of the liquid in bottom reservoir20for drinking, and the amount of time desired for passing the liquid from the first reservoir12into the second reservoir20. Thus, these parameters, and a balance of these parameters to provide the optimized holder, must also be achieved in an easily transportable apparatus with drinking cups of usable size and shape. For example, if the tubes have too large a diameter, than the liquid will flow too rapidly through the cooling system and provide insufficient time to cool to the desired temperature. On the other hand, if the tubes are too small in diameter, then the passage of liquid through the cooling system could take too long and be unsatisfactory to the user who does not want to wait a long time for the drink to be chilled. The height of the tube also affects time of passage through the cooling system. Therefore, a balance must be achieved so that there are sufficient number of tubes of small enough size and long enough length to enable slow enough passage of the liquid through the tubes so the liquid is chilled to the desired temperature, e.g., about 32 degrees F., but of sufficient size and length so that it does not take an inordinate amount of time for passage therethrough. This must also be balanced with the amount of liquid desired to be passed from the first reservoir into the second reservoir. The height of the liquid in the first reservoir can also affect flow. The foregoing parameters are also applicable to the coils discussed in detail below.

The charts ofFIGS.15-18explain how the number and size of tubes was optimized. InFIG.15, a tube of 035 inches internal diameter was compared to a tube of 0.042 inches. InFIG.16, three different tube lengths were tested and as the results show, a two inch length (when the height of the liquid in the first reservoir is 0.5 inches) was too short so that insufficient cooling occurred. Temperature rise was more acceptable with tubes lengths of 2.5 and 3 inches. Thus, desirably, the tube length is about 2.5 inches or greater.FIG.17shows how the height of the liquid affects flow, utilizing a tube of 3 inch lengths and 0.035 inch internal diameter. The liquid needs to be of sufficient height to create pressure for passage within a reservoir that fits with the holder. That is, if of insufficient height, the liquid won't flow. In preferred embodiments, the height is greater than 0.5 inches. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, for passage of 3-5 ounces of liquid, 36 tubes are utilized, each having a length of about 2.5 inches and an internal diameter of about 0.035 inches.FIG.18illustrates how the increase in the number of tubes increases the liquid flow time, using 100 ml of liquid as an example.

It should be appreciated that other dimensions/parameters are also contemplated and the present invention is not limited to the foregoing or limited to the parameters in the charts ofFIGS.15-18.

In some embodiments, the drink holder (shaker) of the present invention can provide for additional cooling of the drink. That is, the liquid is transportable (flowable) from the first reservoir12through the cooling cartridge14into the second reservoir20so the initial temperature of the liquid is lowered to a second temperature by the cooling cartridge14for passage into the second reservoir. If further cooling is desired, the liquid can be transportable (flowable) from the second reservoir20back through the cooling cartridge14and into the first reservoir12to further lower the temperature of the liquid. Thus, the liquid is capable of being passed back and forth from one of the first and second reservoirs12,20to the other of the first and second reservoirs12,20via passage through the plurality of tubes within the cooling cartridge14, wherein each passage of the fluid through the plurality of tubes lowers the temperature of the liquid so the temperature of the liquid can be controlled to a desired temperature for drinking. In such embodiments, the first reservoir12as well as the second reservoir30can be in the form of drinking cup so the user can remove the desired reservoir and drink the liquid when it is cooled to the drinker's desired temperature. Note that liquid can be transported between the reservoirs by turning the drink holder10upside down to enable the liquid to flow in the reverse direction through the tubes.

In the alternate embodiments ofFIGS.28A-30C, the passageways through the gel are provided by one or more coils. The number of coils shown are provided as an example as a different number of coils can be provided. In the embodiment ofFIGS.28A-28Ca plurality of longitudinally extending parallel coils262are provided within cooling cartridge260extending from the top region267to the bottom region265. The coils have a series of loops263with diameters defined by gap264in the loops263. The loops263slow down the fluid flow to provide for cooling as the fluid flows through the internal diameter of the spiral coil for passage the top reservoir to the bottom reservoir (and in some embodiments, from the bottom reservoir back to the top reservoir for additional cooling as discussed above).

In the embodiment ofFIGS.29A-29Ca plurality of longitudinally extending parallel nested coils272,273are provided within cooling cartridge270extending from the top region277to the bottom region275. The coils273have a series of loops279and the coils272have a series of loops278with gaps274through the loops278,279to define a width. The fluid flows through the inner diameter for passage from the top reservoir to the bottom reservoir (and in some embodiments, from the bottom reservoir back to the top reservoir for additional cooling as discussed above). The coils272,273and their loops278,279are preferably spaced apart slightly as shown. The nested coils272,273provide increased surface area for increased cooling of the fluid flowing through the coils272,273.

The coils ofFIGS.28A-29Care parallel or substantially parallel and positioned adjacent one another. In the embodiment ofFIGS.30A-30C, the coils are concentric. More specifically, coil282forms an inner coil, coil284forms an intermediate coil and coil286forms an outer coil within cooling cartridge280. As shown, the diameter (width) of the coils of the inner coil282is less than the diameter (width) of the coils of the middle coil and the diameter (width) of the middle coil is less than the diameter (width) of the outer coil. Note a greater or fewer number of concentric coils could be provided. The opening283in inner coil282, opening285in middle coil284and opening287in outer coil286are of different sizes, defining different widths of the coil which affect fluid flow and therefore cooling.

In addition to the different number of coils that could be provided, the coils can have different pitches, different diameters (widths) and different inner diameters. These parameters drive the number of coils that are preferably for performing the cooling function during passage through the cooling cartridge since, as described above, the balance must be made between sufficient time of passage for cooling without taking too much time to prepare the drink. For example, as the pitch increases, the faster the fluid flows through the cartridge. As the width (diameter) of the coil itself (defined by the size of the loops) increases, the slower the fluid flow through the cartridge (as it winds through the coil). The more coils, the faster the flow because more passageways (channels) are provided. The larger the inner diameter of the coil itself (defined between the inner and outer wall), the faster the flow. The coils generally have greater surface area than the tubes so there is a larger surface contact area with the cooling gel so that comparatively a fewer number of coils could achieve the same cooling affect as compared to the tubes. However, this could depend on the parameters of the coils and the tubes. The coils can be made of various materials such as metal or plastic.

It should be appreciated that the various embodiments of the shakers described herein can utilize either the tubes or the coils to provide passageways or channels through the cooling medium within the cartridge.

The portable cocktail shakers of the present invention, as noted above, can be in a reusable or in a disposable form. In the reusable form, in some embodiments, it is well crafted, stainless steel construct that resembles the traditional cocktail shaker in size and shape. It is modular as the top reservoir (receptacle)12, middle cooling section which contains the cooling system14, and bottom reservoir (receptacle or cup)20can be screwed together and taken apart for repetitive use. The middle section, which forms the cooling system, remains in the freezer until ready to be used. The ingredients of the cocktail are then placed in the top reservoir12and screwed, or otherwise mounted, to the top portion of the middle cooling section14. The desired garnish will be placed in the bottom receptacle20and screwed or otherwise mounted, to the other end, i.e., the bottom portion of middle portion14. This will allow for the portable cocktail shaker10to travel and to be transported to the desired destination and allow for enjoying a well-crafted, chilled cocktail up to several hours later when ready. Many American cities have a BYOB culture and the portable cocktail shaker allows for a BYOC—bring your own cocktail. The cocktail may be mixed at home, placed in the top reservoir12of the portable shaker10and enjoyed at a later time by chilling the cocktail by passing it though the cooling system14. This may be at a restaurant or other social event. When ready to be enjoyed, the top reservoir14is simply turned to allow alignment of openings and the shaker10can be placed on the table to allow the cocktail to flow through the cooling mechanism14into the bottom receptacle20. The bottom receptacle20is then screwed off the middle section and the chilled cocktail is enjoyed with friends as the receptacle forms a drinking cocktail glass.

FIGS.10A-10C and12A-13Rillustrate an alternate embodiment of the drink holder (portable shaker) of the present invention, designated by reference numeral130. As shown, in this embodiment, the cooling cartridge assembly has a cooling cartridge131(FIGS.12A-12C), a bottom plate134on which the cooling cartridge131is mounted as it fits within the circular recess136, a plurality of longitudinally extending tubes139(as in tubes84described above) which can be arranged parallel or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the drink holder130, and two O-ring seals138,140positioned in upper and lower circular recesses of top plate142which prevent fluid from seeping down in a space external of the cooling tubes139. One or more O-ring seals as well as other types of seals could be provided to prevent fluid seepage. The tubes139(as well as tubes84described above) can have a lining or coating in the internal diameter to prevent freezing of the media. That is, condensation could form in the tubes and the coating inside could provide a slippery surface so the water doesn't adhere to the tubes. Plug145in top plate142holds the cooling gel inside the cartridge. The cooling cartridge131is seated within the insulating sleeve144. Insulating sleeve144, as shown inFIGS.12D-12F, has reduced diameter top and bottom portions, with bottom portion having a smaller diameter than the top portion. Insulating sleeve144has an upper and lower circular recess146,148to receive respective upper and lower sealing O-rings150,152. The insulating sleeve144can be a single wall or a double wall design as described above.

The bottom reservoir156shown inFIGS.12G-12Ifunctions like the bottom reservoir20ofFIG.3, but differs in the configuration, having a wider shape, and is mounted to the bottom of the insulating sleeve144/cooling cartridge131as in the embodiments discussed above. Bottom reservoir157also differs fromFIG.3in that it is composed of two components-cup156shown inFIGS.12G,12H and121and cooling plug158shown inFIGS.12J and12K. Cooling plug158includes an O-ring seal159and a cooling gel and is configured to be mounted over the bottom region155of the open cup156to close the cup. The cooling plug158helps to keep the drink within the bottom reservoir cool. Note in some embodiments, the cooling plug158can be mounted to the bottom of the cooling cartridge131or insulating sleeve144and then removed from the cartridge131or sleeve144and mounted to the bottom cup156prior to pouring the drink from the top reservoir through the cooling cartridge and into the bottom reservoir. This is shown for example inFIGS.10D-10Fwherein the cooling plug158is mounted directly to the insulating sleeve144and can then be removed for mounting of the cup. In some embodiments, the insulating sleeve and the bottom cup can each have a cooling plug (with cooling gel) so the plug does not have to be removed for mounting to the bottom cup.

In this embodiment, a push button assembly is provided to open the seal to allow fluid/drink flow from the top reservoir170into the cooling cartridge131. With the push button assembly, the user presses the button inwardly (downwardly/distally) to open the seal to allow fluid flow. It is held in this lower position by structure in the top reservoir (described below) until it is depressed again wherein it springs back to its original (initial) position wherein the seal is closed.

More specifically, the push button seal assembly160is mounted within the top reservoir170and is illustrated inFIGS.13A-13C. The push button assembly160is contained with the top reservoir (top cap)170and includes a locking tube162, pressable push button164, spring166, mounting disk167and sealing disk168with a gasket169. Spring166biases push button164in the upper (proximal direction). The sealing disk168is movable between a first position wherein fluid is blocked from flowing into the cooling cartridge (FIG.13K) and a second position wherein fluid is allowed to flow into the cooling cartridge (FIG.13L), and is moved by actuation of the push button assembly160.

The push button assembly160includes push button support180with shaft182onto which rotation disk184and driving disk186are mounted, the driving disk186mounted atop the rotation disk184. Rotation disk184has a plurality of circumferentially spaced radially extending tabs190for indexing as it is rotated as described in detail below. Driving disk186has a series of wavy cam surfaces187engageable with the tabs190of rotation disk184to cause rotation. The disks186and184are mounted within the locking tube162and the tabs190are engageable with an inner surface of the locking tube162. A button support188is mounted within recess181of post182.

The interaction of the disks184,186and locking tube162will now be described with reference toFIGS.13N-13R. In the initial position, wherein the top reservoir is sealed so liquid is prevented for flowing out, tabs190of rotation disk184are blocked from downward movement by internal splines162aextending radially inwardly from the inner wall of locking tube162. In this position, driving disk186and rotation disk184are at an upper or proximal position (as inFIG.13K). When it is desired to unseal the drink holder, the push button164is pressed distally (inwardly/downwardly), moving attached driving disk186distally which causes camming surfaces187to rotate the rotation disk184in a first direction as camming surfaces engage and cam tabs190of rotation disk184. Rotation of disk184moves the locking tabs190out or engagement with the internal splines162aand into alignment with the gaps between the internal splines162awhich are radially spaced around the internal wall of the locking tube162. Thus, the tabs190move out of blocked engagement with the splines162aand into an unblocked position between the splines162a. This enables the rotation disk to be moved distally within the locking tube162(carried by the push button support/shaft182) so the sealing disk168can move from its sealing (blocking) position ofFIG.13Kto its non-sealing (unblocking) position ofFIG.13Lso fluid can flow in the space around the disk as depicted by the arrows inFIG.13L.

FIG.13Rshow these phases of movement wherein 1) the rotation disk184is initially blocked from moving in the recess163abetween the splines162a;2) the push button164is pressed to cause rotation of the disk184and the rotation disk184and driving disk186are moved distally (by push button support180) until stopped by engagement of the driving disk1863) proximal movement of the rotation disk184(and driving disk186) is blocked by engagement of the tabs190with the bottom edge of the outer tube162which therefore maintains the push/button mechanism and therefore the sealing disk168in the lower unsealing position; 4) the push button164is pressed again to move the attached driving disk186and rotation disk184distally and cause the rotation disk184to rotate due to the camming surfaces187of driving disk186engaging the tabs190to move the tabs190back into alignment with the recesses163of the inner tube162; and 5) the push button164is released and returns upwardly (in a proximal direction) to its initial position carrying the disks186,184and locking disk168to their initial position.

In an alternate embodiment, the sealing mechanism includes a vent. In the open position of the vent, the liquid is flowing down from the top reservoir; when the vent is closed, air flow is blocked. The vent can be used with any of the embodiments disclosed herein.FIGS.21-26Cillustrate one embodiment of the venting mechanism.

With initial reference toFIG.24, the top reservoir200include a sealing mechanism similar toFIG.13Ahaving a push button assembly with a push button support206, contained with the top reservoir (top cap)200and includes a locking tube204, movable push button support206, spring214, mounting disk217and sealing disk220. Spring214biases the push button in the upper (proximal direction). The sealing disk220is movable between a first position wherein fluid is blocked from flowing into the cooling cartridge (FIG.21) and a second position wherein fluid is allowed to flow into the cooling cartridge (FIG.22), and is moved by actuation of the push button.

The push button assembly includes a shaft onto which rotation disk210and driving disk208are mounted, the driving disk208mounted atop the rotation disk210. The driving disk208and rotation disk210function in the same manner as driving disk186and rotation disk184ofFIG.13A, e.g., the rotation disk210has a plurality of circumferentially spaced radially extending tabs for indexing as it is rotated by the series of wavy cam surfaces of the driving disk engageable with the tabs, and thus the description and function of disks184,186and interaction with the recesses and splines of the locking tube162are fully applicable to the disks210,208. The disks208and210are mounted within the locking tube.

The push button assembly206ofFIG.24differs from push button assembly160ofFIG.13Ain that it includes a recess on the shaft of the push button support206to receive an O-ring226. This allows for venting as shown inFIGS.21-23. In the closed position ofFIG.21, the push button is in the proximal position wherein the vent is closed so there is no air flow. In this position, the O-ring seal226(which is positioned in a recces in the push button support206(shaft) is within the mounting disk216, thereby closing off the opening217. To allow passage of fluid, the push button is depressed (moved distally) to the open position ofFIG.22to shift the O-ring226downwardly (distally) so the O-ring226moves distally of the mounting disk216. This creates an air gap between the lower portion of the mounting disk216and sealing disk220and opens the space between the outer surface of the push button support and center post of mounting disk216so air can flow upwardly between the space and through the space and out through the top reservoir as depicted by the arrows ofFIG.23.

It should be appreciated that such venting can be utilized with any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

The top reservoir ofFIGS.23-26Ddiffers from the aforedescribed reservoir in that it supports the liquid, e.g., alcohol, in a pod which has a puncturable seal to allow liquid flow. More specifically, as shown inFIGS.25A and25B, pod218has a cavity defined between outer wall236aand inner wall236band is donut shaped. The liquid is contained within the cavity. The bottom layer232of pod218is in the form of a puncturable material such as a layer of foil.

The embodiment ofFIGS.23-26Dalso differs from the aforedescribed embodiments in that the sealing disk has a plurality of puncturable needles. More specifically, sealing disk220has a plurality of spaced apart needles222extending upwardly (proximally) configured to puncture the bottom layer232of pod218. The needles can be designed so that when the bottom layer, e.g., foil, is punctured, the material is pulled down for easier flow. The shaft of push button206has external threads212threadingly engaged with internal threads238of the mounting disk220. The push button206can be removably mounted to the mounting disk220in some embodiments.

In use, the pod218is inserted into the top reservoir200and the push button mechanism is in the initial position as shown inFIG.26A. In this position, the pointed tips of the needles22are spaced from the bottom layer232of pod218. When the user wants to pour the liquid from the top reservoir, the push button206is depressed and released to return to the upper position, thereby pulling the sealing disk220proximally (upwardly) due to the threaded connection of the push button shaft and sealing disk220. This causes the needles222to penetrate the bottom layer232of pod218to create openings for passage of the fluid. The push button206is depressed again to return the sealing disk220to its initial downward (distal) position ofFIG.26Cto allow liquid to flow out of the top reservoir (as depicted by the arrows) and into the cooling cartridge and then into the bottom reservoir as described in the embodiments above.

FIGS.27A and27Billustrate an embodiment wherein the garnish is contained in cavity256of pod252. The pod252includes a top layer such as foil which can be pulled off prior to use and placed in the bottom reservoir250. The pod can alternatively be opened in other ways to remove the garnish.

Note the pod for containing liquid in the top reservoir and/or the pod or cavity for the garnish can be used with the various embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG.20provides a flow chart illustrating one method of use of the drink holders of the present invention. It should be appreciated that the steps can be performed in a different order then depicted in the chart, e.g., the garnish can be placed in the second reservoir before placing drink in the first reservoir, the second reservoir can be placed over the sleeve before the first reservoir, etc.

In some embodiments, as noted above, the drink holder (portable shaker) is reusable and can be made of stainless steel, although other materials are also contemplated. It can have a retro-cocktail look and shape and will be able to be used many times. That is, once used, it can be brought back home and washed and the middle cooling section14placed back in the freezer to be ready for the next use. It will allow a culture of BYOC. It can be customized with engravings such as monograms, crests, club seals or symbols.

The alternative version incorporates the same design elements as the reusable version, e.g., the top reservoir12or170, middle cooling section14, and bottom receptacle20or157to drink from, but is a disposable model. The dimensions can be the same as the reusable, but the materials will allow for this model to be disposable. It can be made out of plastic or other inexpensive material to allow for one time use, i.e., discarded after a single use. The disposable version will fulfill the same purpose to allow a chilled, well-crafted cocktail to be enjoyed at a later time. The shaker can be utilized at sporting events, concerts, and will allow portability of a cocktail. As in the reusable embodiment, the middle section which forms the cooling system will be kept in the freezer and remains in the freezer until ready to be used. The ingredients of the cocktail are then placed in the top reservoir12(or170) and screwed, or otherwise mounted, to the top portion of the middle cooling section. The desired garnish will be placed in the bottom receptacle16and screwed or otherwise mounted, to the other end, i.e., the bottom portion of middle portion14. This will allow for the portable cocktail shaker10to travel and to be transported to the desired destination and allow for enjoying a well-crafted, chilled cocktail up to several hours later when ready. When a cocktail is ordered, the ingredients are placed in the top reservoir, the middle cooling section is removed from the freezer, and the portable shaker is assembled and ready to travel. This will also allow a chilled cocktail up to several hours later.

The disposable embodiments can also be used by bars and other establishments. This includes for example bars and restaurants at airports. The patron can purchase the desired cocktail in the portable version and carry it on the plane for later enjoyment while in flight. Such establishments can have the empty, disposable cocktail shakers on hand with the middle chilling section in the freezer. When a patron orders a cocktail to go, it can be prepared and the portable cocktail shaker assembled by the establishment. The patron can then travel to the desired destination and turn the top reservoir to allow the cocktail to flow through the cooling section. After enjoying the cocktail, the assembly is discarded. The portable cocktail shakers can be ready to use at establishments that serve cocktails and expand their ability to serve cocktails to those patrons that want to enjoy them at a later date.

The portable cocktail shaker of the present invention thus has the ability to expand the timeline of the enjoying a well-crafted and chilled cocktail. It will also allow a BYOC culture and allow the classic pre-dinner cocktail while socializing with friends in BYOC restaurants. It can be mixed at home and transported to the restaurant. It will allow enjoyment of a cocktail at sporting and other social events. The cocktail can be prepared and can then be chilled and decanted when comfortably in your seat.

The drink holder of the present invention can in some embodiments be configured to receive a “pre-made” cocktail cup made by a third party vendor that can be attached to or poured into the top reservoir for passage through the cooling medium as described above.

FIGS.14A-14Dillustrate several different embodiments of the drink holder of the present invention. The components, e.g., top and bottom reservoir, cooling cartridge, insulating sleeve, function as in the aforementioned embodiments, the difference being in the shape of the holder. InFIG.14A, two drink holders90are shown side by side, each having a top reservoir92, cooling cartridge96and bottom reservoir94. InFIG.14B, the drink holder95(three are shown) has a more continuous taper. Drink holder100ofFIG.14Chas a wider top cartridge102, sitting atop cooling cartridge assembly106which is attached to bottom reservoir104. Drink holder108ofFIG.14Dhas a less tapered configuration. Other shapes, sizes and configurations for the drink holder are also contemplated.

While the above description contains many specifics, those specifics should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosure, but merely as exemplifications of preferred embodiments thereof. Those skilled in the art will envision many other possible variations that are within the scope and spirit of the disclosure as defined by the claims appended hereto.