Patent ID: 12239260

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention(s) will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. References to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “an exemplary embodiment”, etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with embodiments, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

Existing bottles may not have smart capabilities. They may include, for example, traditional parts of a bottle such as a reservoir and a lid. However, these bottles may not provide additional capabilities that elevate a user's experience. For example, a bottle may not display information related to the bottle or its contents. Further, a bottle may not support elective components that provide such information. Similarly, a bottle may not have capabilities for changing a characteristic of its contents or support elective components that provide such functions.

Existing bottles also may not have smart capabilities related to safety. Safety may refer to the integrity of the bottle and its contents such that a user's health and/or well-being are not negatively affected. These bottles may not be able to provide a safety indication related to the bottle and its contents. Existing bottles may allow a user to store and transport a food or beverage for later consumption. However, a user may not have the bottle in their possession at all times. For example, a user may place the bottle on a table and walk away, returning after a period of time. While not in the line of sight of the user, the bottle and its contents may be vulnerable in that the bottle may be controllable by someone other than the user and/or the contents may be exposed. Further, without any indication notifying the user of an adverse event, the user will not have knowledge of possible tampering (e.g., control of the bottle by someone other than the user and/or exposure of the bottle's contents). The user may be required to keep the bottle with them to prevent risk related to the safety of their bottle and its contents. Lacking the ability to place a bottle down for later retrieval may negatively affect the user's experience.

Additionally, although existing bottles may provide thermal insulation, a user's control over the temperature of its contents may be limited. For example, while the contents are stored in the bottle and prior to consumption, the contents may react to ambient conditions. A hot beverage may cool when the ambient temperature is cooler and a cold beverage may warm when the ambient temperature is warmer. Further, these bottles may limit a user's control over the rate of temperature change. Thermal insulation may only delay the natural cooling or warming of the contents to gradually bring the contents' initial temperature to the value of the ambient temperature. Consuming a beverage or food at an undesirable temperature may negatively affect the user's experience.

Existing cooling methods in bottles may utilize ice as the primary mechanism for chilling beverages that are to be consumed. These cooling methods may include, for example, a thermally insulated bottle filled with ice into which a beverage may be poured. However, ice for this cooling method may be difficult to procure and replenish, particularly when the bottle and ice maker are in different locations. Attempts to accompany the bottle with additional ice for replenishing may result in the ice melting before being needed. Similarly, ice may be used for cooling before cooling is necessary, such as when a user prepares their bottle for storage and transport. A beverage may already be cold at this point. This wastes resources that could otherwise be used when needed, such as when a beverage has warmed. Further, using ice as the primary cooling method may limit a user's control over the temperature of the beverage as well as the rate at which the beverage is cooled.

Existing bottles that use ice to cool contents may require the ice to be placed directly in contact with the contents. Although this may chill a beverage contained in the bottle, the concentration of the beverage will vary as the ice melts, thereby diluting the drink. This dilution may be less than desirable in drinks that have specific ratios of ingredients, such as sports drinks. Further, these bottles cannot provide desired cooling for food contents. Placing ice directly in contact with food may be less than desirable in foods that require specific tastes and textures for user satisfaction, which may be negatively affected by the addition of ice. Even further, if the bottle is not double walled and/or the thermal insulation is insufficient, as the ice melts when it comes in contact with the relatively warm surface of the bottle, the surface of the bottle will become wet. This may require a user to wipe off the bottle before drinking the beverage, which may negatively affect the user's experience.

Existing bottles may not support the attachment of some or all accessories at the base of the bottle. Bottles may include, for example, only traditional components such as a reservoir and a lid. Although the bottle may provide core functions such as storage and transportation of a food or beverage for later consumption, the bottle may not provide additional capabilities that elevate a user's experience. For example, the base of the bottle may be sealed so that the only opening is at the top of the bottle. Sealing the base may prevent attachment of accessories that extend into the reservoir to change a characteristic of the contents disposed in the bottle. Further, the base of the bottle may completely lack an attachment means for supporting accessories. This may prevent attachment of all accessories, including accessories that do not extend into the reservoir.

Existing bottles that support changing a characteristic of its contents may utilize the lid as the mechanism to do so. While the lid may provide this function, it may be less effective in changing a characteristic of the contents than an accessory. Specifically, the bottle's capabilities may be limited since the lid is the mechanism that places the bottle in an open position. For example, a lid with a cooling function requiring ice may cause the ice to melt faster when the lid is opened. Further, a lid with a heating function may only provide heating when attached to the reservoir. However, some bottles may require removal of the lid to consume the contents of a bottle. A user cannot then use a bottle for heating at all times that is only in an open position when the lid is completely removed.

As described herein, embodiments may provide efficient systems and methods for providing smart capabilities in resealable bottles. Some bottles may include a safety system that may be activated by a user. A bottle may include an indication related to data from the bottle and its contents. For example, the indication may signal when the bottle and its contents have entered an unsafe state. The bottle may include a main body and a lid that is removably attached to the top portion of the main body. Some bottles may support accessories that may change a characteristic of the contents of the bottle. An accessory may be removably attached to the base portion of the main body. When the accessory is attached, a locking element on the accessory may engage with a locking element on the main body. This engagement may produce feedback such as a tactile or audible signal. Once an accessory is locked into the bottle, the accessory may function to change a characteristic of the contents of the bottle. Ensuring that the bottle is in the locked and accessorized position may prevent resource and/or energy loss. A predetermined force may be needed to unlock the components and remove the attachment.

The bottle may include a heating element for heating the contents of a bottle. A heating capability may be incorporated into an accessory. A heating accessory may include a battery that powers a flexible electrical circuit with appropriate resistance elements, which may be disposed between inner and outer sidewalls of the main body. The bottle may include a cooling element for cooling the contents of a bottle which also may be incorporated into an accessory. A cooling accessory may include a top chamber and a bottom chamber, where the bottom chamber stores carbon dioxide gas under pressure and the top chamber supports expansion of the carbon dioxide gas. The two chambers may be separated by an insulated layer that may support a pressure regulating valve. The bottom chamber may contain a refilling valve configured to connect a carbon dioxide tank for refilling (e.g., via an adapter). The top chamber may contain a safety opening configured to provide an outlet for the expansion of carbon dioxide. Heat exchange between the main body and the cooling accessory may provide cooling for the contents of the bottle. The sidewalls of the bottom chambers and the base portion of the accessory may also be insulated to prevent losses. A user may shake the bottle to cycle its contents to the heat exchanging base portion of the main body. This may prevent freezing of its contents in proximity of the heat exchanging bottom of the bottle and allows a more uniform distribution of the temperature of the contents inside the bottle.

Embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the figures. With reference toFIGS.1-2, a bottle10includes smart capabilities and a resealing capability. Bottle10may include a main body100, a lid200, and a bottom/accessory500. Throughout the disclosure, components may be referred to with reference to bottle10but it will be appreciated that other containers may be used (e.g., thermoses, jugs, cans, squeeze bottles, reservoir packs, etc.).

With reference toFIGS.2-4, in some embodiments, main body100comprises stainless steel. Main body100may comprise other materials, such as, for example, aluminum, other metals, plastic, composite materials and combinations thereof, including, for example, steel, fiberglass, bamboo, etc. Main body100may include an exterior surface114defining the shape of bottle10and an interior surface112defining an interior space, or reservoir116. Interior surface112and exterior surface114may be made of the same or different materials. In some embodiments, main body100comprises a generally tubular or cylindrical shape. In some embodiments, main body100may comprise other shapes, including, for example, cubical, rectangular, spherical, or conical, and may or may not be symmetrical about any axis.

In some embodiments, main body100may include a top portion102. Top portion102may be considered, for example, to be a mouth or neck of main body100. Top portion102may or may not comprise the same shape as other parts of main body100. Further, in some embodiments, top portion102may comprise shapes, including, for example, cubical, rectangular, spherical, or conical, and may or may not be symmetrical about any axis. In some embodiments, top portion102may be considered, for example, to be wide or narrow. In some embodiment, top portion102may contain an opening for receiving contents into reservoir116.

Reservoir116may be configured to receive and store liquid and/or solid contents. Main body100may further contain sidewall106that forms the side of bottle10. As shown inFIG.4, for example, sidewall106may contain an inner sidewall108and an outer sidewall110. In some embodiments, main body100, or a portion of main body100, may include a thermally insulating material to reduce the exchange of heat between reservoir116and the ambient conditions surrounding bottle10. In some embodiments, a layer of air may be sealed between the inner sidewall108and the outer sidewall110to act as a thermal insulator. In some other embodiments the layer of air could be at low pressure and some vacuum might artificially be created to enhance adiabatic proprieties of the bottle and thermally insulate its contents from the external ambient. In some embodiments, the space between inner sidewall108and outer sidewall110may be constant throughout main body100including if, for example, main body100is asymmetrical about an axis.

As shown inFIGS.1-2, in some embodiments, main body100may include a base portion104. In some embodiments, a bottom/accessory500may be configured to removably attach to base portion104. Base portion104may be configured to receive bottom/accessory500such that base portion104completely covers at least a top portion of bottom/accessory500(e.g., base portion104may be threaded and/or of a larger diameter than a top portion of bottom/accessory500). At least a top portion of bottom/accessory500may be correspondingly configured (e.g., contain threading and/or a smaller diameter than base portion104). For example, bottom/accessory500may screw into base portion104. In some embodiments, the attachment may be a bayonet threaded turn, e.g., a ⅛-¼ turn. In some embodiments, base portion104may receive bottom/accessory500after a predetermined force is applied to it. In some embodiments, bottom/accessory500may be optionally added to bottle10to change a characteristic of the contents disposed in bottle10.

In some embodiments, base portion104may include a locking element128. Locking element128may correspond to a locking element of bottom/accessory500. For example, locking element128may be a retractable button (e.g., a spring button) that engages with locking element of bottom/accessory500which may be a slot. In some embodiments, the engagement may be a snap fit connection. In other embodiments, the engagement may be a press fit connection. In other embodiments, the engagement may be a magnetic connection, in other embodiments, a simple thread or a twist-and-lock connection. Engagement of the locking elements may provide feedback (e.g., a tactile or audible signal) that indicates to a user that bottom/accessory500is locked into main body100. When bottom/accessory500is locked into main body100, bottle10moves from the unlocked/unaccessorized position50to a locked/accessorized position60. In some embodiments, a predetermined force may be applied to remove bottom/accessory500from main body100such that bottle10moves from locked/accessorized position60to the unlocked/unaccessorized position50.

In some embodiments, bottom/accessory500is simply a bottom portion of bottle10that may keep reservoir116separate from the ambient environment. In this way, the temperature of contents disposed in reservoir116may be maintained for a length of time. This bottom/accessory500does not change a characteristic of the contents disposed in reservoir116. In other embodiments, when it is desired to change a characteristic of the contents disposed in reservoir116, a bottom/accessory500that is an accessory may be interchanged.

In some embodiments, base portion104of main body100may be sealed or open. In some embodiments, bottle10may support a bottom/accessory500that has a top portion that is sealed or open. Bottom/accessory500does not extend into reservoir116. Example accessories will be described in further detail below, however it will be appreciated that other accessories may be used. Bottom/accessory500may relate to a plurality of functions, such as, for example, filtering, infusing, cleaning, heating, or cooling, and combinations thereof. Bottom/accessory500may be compatible with certain main bodies100of bottle10. In an example, base portion104of main body100may be transparent to allow UV rays to penetrate in a UV sanitization bottom/accessory500(i.e., the UV light is in optical communication with the reservoir116of main body100). In some embodiments, bottom/accessory500comprises metal, plastic, or a composite material, and combinations thereof, including, for example, steel, fiberglass, bamboo, etc. In some embodiments, bottom/accessory500may include one or more chambers (e.g., a main chamber, a second chamber, etc. that may perform the functions of, for example, heating accessory600inFIGS.9-10and/or cooling accessory700inFIGS.12-13) for changing a characteristic of the contents disposed in bottle10.

In some embodiments, bottle10may support a plurality of lids. Bottle10may, for example, support multiple varieties of lids such that a user may use different lids according to the contents to be consumed. For example, a different lid may be desirable for consuming a cold beverage versus a hot beverage.

As shown inFIGS.1-2and5, in some embodiments, a lid200may be configured to removably attach to top portion102. In some embodiments, lid200comprises metal, plastic, composite material, and combinations thereof, including, for example, steel, fiberglass, bamboo, etc. Lid200may contain, for example, a top portion102and a base portion204. In some embodiments, top portion102of bottle body100may be configured to receive base portion204of lid200such that base portion204completely covers top portion202(e.g., base portion204may be threaded and/or of a larger diameter than top portion102). Top portion102may be correspondingly configured (e.g., top portion102may be threaded and/or of a smaller diameter than base portion204). For example, lid200may be a screw cap that screws onto top portion102via base portion204.

In some embodiments, lid200may enclose top portion102via base portion204after a predetermined force is applied to it. Lid200may be connected to top portion102in a closed position (e.g., closed/storage position40). However, in some embodiments, lid200may remain connected to top portion102in an open position (e.g., open/fill position20or open/drink position30) as well. For example, lid200may be a swing top that removably encloses top portion102while remaining connected to top portion102(e.g., lid200may be hinged or latched to main body100).

In some embodiments, bottle10may be in an open position when disposing contents into reservoir116. For example, open/fill position20may include lid200clearing the opening of top portion102such that bottle10may be filled (e.g., lid200is removed from main body100or lid200is swung open, such as in a swing top embodiment). Bottle10may be in an open position when consuming contents disposed in reservoir116. For example, open/drink position30may include a portion of lid200being opened to facilitate drinking.

In some embodiments, bottle10may be in an open/drink position30while lid200remains connected to top portion102. For example, top portion202of lid200may contain opening208that facilitates drinking. Opening208may contain a covering that is, for example, biased to fully cover opening208such that when covered, bottle10is in a closed position (e.g., bottle10is in closed/storage position40). In some embodiments, the covering may be a tab that slides to expose opening208. In some embodiments, the covering may be hingedly connected to lid200such that opening208is exposed when the covering is swung open. The tab may be capable of engaging with lid200to maintain opening208such that the biasing force is overcome. In some embodiments, the covering may be flexible (e.g., a flap) that facilitates the addition of a drinking mechanism (e.g., a straw or straw-like element). A drinking mechanism may be inserted through opening208such that when inserted, bottle10is in an open/drink position30. In some embodiments, removal of the drinking mechanism may return bottle10to a closed position (e.g., closed/storage position40). In some embodiments, there may be a spout lid that may disengage manually. In some embodiments, bottle10moving to an open position (e.g., open/fill position20or open/drink position30) may provide relief of pressure within bottle10(e.g., residual pressures as a result of the contents being carbonated or hot). In some embodiments, lid200may include a relief button or ramped seal (not shown) that may be activated prior to bottle10moving to an open position, or while bottle10is moving to an open position. In some embodiments, lid200may include threads that relieve pressure, similar to PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles and caps that are commonly known.

In some embodiments, bottle10may include one or more sensors. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors may be, for example, coupled to main body100and/or lid200. The one or more sensors may provide data related to bottle10and/or its contents. The data may provide, for example, information on the integrity of bottle10and/or its contents, and/or the information on contents disposed in bottle10. The one or more sensors may provide, for example, data related to the position of bottle10(e.g., open/fill position20, open/drink position30, or closed/storage position40), location of bottle10, temperature of the contents disposed in bottle10, or the fill level of bottle10. The one or more sensors may include level sensor(s)118(e.g., conductivity level sensor(s) shown inFIG.4), location sensor(s) (not shown), open position sensor(s)210coupled to the lid200(e.g., to the inside of lid200as shown inFIGS.9and13), and/or temperature sensor(s) (not shown). It is to be appreciated that bottle10may include additional sensor(s) and/or input(s) in any component of bottle10not described herein (e.g., conductivity sensors or other TDS sensors to determine TDS, accelerometers to determine position, timers and/or clocks to determine time of storage, UV light sensors to determine sanitation effectiveness, pressure switch to remedy over pressurization, automatic pressure relief input, etc.).

In some embodiments, location sensor(s) may include Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers. In some embodiments, level sensor(s)118may also signal the amount of consumption by a user. For example, a reduction in the fill level of bottle10may signal that contents were consumed. In some embodiments, open position sensor(s)210may signal when bottle10is in an open position (e.g., open/fill position20or open/drink position30). For example, open position sensor(s) may include, for example, an accelerometer, a magnetic field sensor, a gyroscope, etc. that may signal when lid200is removed from main body100and/or opening208is exposed.

With reference toFIGS.3and5, in some embodiments, bottle10may include one or more indicator(s)300that display information related to the data. In some embodiments, indicator(s)300may additionally be provided on a separate device, such as a user device800(FIGS.6and17). On bottle10, indicator(s)300may comprise one or more lights (e.g., LEDs) coupled to main body100and/or lid200. In some embodiments, indicator(s)300may include a single light, a multi-colored light, or an electronic display. In some embodiments, indicator(s)300may be integrated with exterior surface114such that it may illuminate the exterior surface114of main body100. In some embodiments, indicator(s)300may be integrated with lid200such that it may illuminate lid200.

Further, indicator(s)300may be configured to display certain colors corresponding to the data. In some embodiments, a desired temperature and/or fill level, for example, may be defined (e.g., via an input on bottle10or a separate device, such as user device800) such that indicator(s)300provide a display signaling that the contents disposed in bottle10do not comply with the desired criteria. For example, a desired temperature and/or fill level may be defined. If the contents disposed in bottle10do not meet the defined temperature and/or fill level, indicator(s)300may display a red light. If the contents disposed in bottle10reach the defined temperature and/or fill level, indicator(s)300may display, for example, a green light.

In some embodiments, indicator(s)300may turn on or off, or flash on and off, based on the defined criteria. Similarly, in some embodiments, indicator(s)300may brighten or dim based on the defined criteria. For example, if the contents disposed in bottle10reach a temperature that is warmer than a defined temperature, indicator(s)300may turn off, or flash on and off, to signal that heating is complete. Similarly, if the contents disposed in bottle10reach a temperature that is colder than a defined temperature, indicator(s)300may dimly illuminate, or display a related graphic to signal that cooling is complete. Additionally, if the contents disposed in bottle10reach a defined fill level, indicator(s)300may turn off, or flash on and off, to signal that bottle10may be filled as desired. Similarly, if the contents disposed in bottle10fall below a defined minimum fill level of bottle10, indicator(s)300may turn on, or flash, on and off to signal that bottle10may be filled. In some embodiments, as the fill level of bottle10decreases, indicator(s)300may progressively dim, or display a related graphic to signal the decreasing fill level of bottle10.

In some embodiments, main body100may include battery126(not shown) which may be used, for example, to power sensor(s) and/or indicator(s)300. Similarly, lid200may include battery212. In some embodiments, battery126and battery212are configured to be rechargeable (e.g., via a USB cable as shown inFIG.17). In some embodiments, the one or more sensors are self-contained such that they include a power source.

With reference toFIGS.6and17-18, for example, in some embodiments, bottle10may communicate with user device800. User device800may be, for example, a smartphone, smart watch, smart ring, a tablet, a computer (e.g., laptop900), or other suitable electronic device. In some embodiments, user device800may include a display802that supports a plurality of graphical user interfaces (GUIs). In some embodiments, bottle10may include a QR code, a Near Field Communication (NFC) tag, and/or a bar code for communication with user device800.

As shown inFIG.7, a display802may support bottle GUI804related to bottle10. Bottle GUI804may provide user and user device information as well. Bottle GUI804may be set for multiple users, each with her/his body characteristics and water consumption goal. Further, bottle GUI804may provide tactile inputs (e.g., touchscreen), or equivalents thereof, that communicate with bottle10(e.g., input desired criteria on temperature and/or fill level). In some embodiments, the one or more sensors, such as level sensor(s)118, location sensor(s), and/or open position sensor(s)210, may communicate data to user device800. In some embodiments, user device800provides indicator(s)300related to the data. For example, bottle GUI804may correspondingly display water consumption data806, water level data, bottle10position data, and/or location data in real time. Water consumption data806may further include, for example, historical data from a period of time (e.g., the day or the month), goal realization by amount and/or percentage (e.g., data as compared to inputted criteria on daily consumption goal), and/or goal completion information (e.g., streak data indicating the number of days in a row that the user's goal was realized). Water consumption data806also may allow comparison of water consumption between multiple users and sharing of this information. For example, a parent or guardian may obtain information on how much water their child consumes while at school or during sporting activities.

In some embodiments, user device800may further include a GPS receiver that processes the location data communicated by GPS location sensor(s). The GPS receiver may process the location data in real time and produce time-stamped waypoints that include a time, a latitude, and a longitude.

In some embodiments, user device800may provide information related to safety. Since a user may not have bottle10in their possession at all times, it is important to provide the ability for monitoring the safety of bottle10and alerting the user of unsafe conditions. For example, a user may place the bottle on a table and walk away, returning after some time. While not in the line of sight of the user, bottle10and its contents may be vulnerable in that bottle10may be controllable by someone other than the user and/or the contents may be exposed. Safety system GUI may be accessible via user device800and may, for example, control a safety system related to bottle10and provide data regarding the safety system. In some embodiments, safety system816(not shown) may be activated via safety system GUI. Safety system816may provide periodic or constant monitoring of the safety of bottle10. Similarly, safety system816may be deactivated via safety system GUI such that the safety of bottle10is not monitored.

In some embodiments, if safety system816is active, safety system816may determine if bottle10is in either a safe or an unsafe state. Bottle10may be in a safe state when both bottle10and the contents disposed in bottle10are controlled by the user and/or another while the user is present. The user is present when bottle10is connected to user device800. For example, bottle10may remain in a safe state when a user temporarily gives bottle10to another proximate to them (e.g., for refilling in a common area or a coffee shop). In an unsafe state, safety system816may direct safety system GUI to display a warning message (FIG.6), optionally requiring acknowledgement. In some embodiments, the warning message may be followed by an audio signal or haptic feedback on user device800. In other embodiments, a push notification may be provided to user device800, optionally requiring acknowledgement.

In some embodiments, residual pressure relief safety, UV light sanitization, and/or anti-microbial coating may promote the safety of bottle10. Safety system816may monitor bottle10for these criteria and indicate when bottle10is in an unsafe state based on these criteria, e.g., when the contents of bottle10are pressurized above a predetermined threshold, when UV light sanitization is ineffective, and/or when the anti-microbial coating is ineffective. In some embodiments, the unsafe state may be when the temperature of the contents disposed in bottle10are above a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the unsafe state may be when the contents of bottle10have been stored for a length of time that is over a predetermined threshold. For example, dairy products may reach a spoiled state after a period of time, after which consuming them is harmful to the user's health. The unsafe state may additionally include when bottle10is empty. For example, it may be desirable to have water available at all times such that bottle10being empty is harmful to the user's health. In some embodiments, the unsafe state may be when the TDS measurement is above a predetermined threshold such that an unacceptable level of dissolved solids are present in the contents disposed in bottle10. The contents being in a TDS state may be hazardous to the user's health.

In some embodiments, the unsafe state may indicate that bottle10and/or the contents disposed in bottle10are vulnerable to tampering and/or have been subject to tampering (e.g., control of the bottle by someone other than the user and/or exposure of the bottle's contents). Bottle10may be in an unsafe state when either bottle10or the contents disposed in bottle10are for example, controlled by another while the user is not present. The user is not present when bottle10is disconnected from user device800. In some embodiments, bottle10may enter an unsafe state when a user moves sufficiently far away—at a pre-set distance—from where bottle10is located such that bottle10disconnects from user device800. In some embodiments, bottle10may enter an unsafe state when a user moves sufficiently far away from where bottle10is located such that bottle10disconnects from user device800and bottle10is in an open position (e.g., open/fill position20or open/drink position30). In some embodiments, bottle10may enter an unsafe state when a user moves sufficiently far away from where bottle10is located such that bottle10disconnects from user device800and bottle10moves from a closed position to an open position (e.g., from closed/storage position40to open/fill position20, or from closed/storage position40to open/drink position30). In some embodiments, for example, bottle10may enter an unsafe state when a user moves sufficiently far away from where bottle10is located such that bottle10disconnects from user device800and bottle10moves from an open position to another open position (e.g., from open/fill position20to open/drink position30or vice versa). This may include if the open position is a result of opening208on lid200being exposed. In some embodiments, the indication of an unsafe state presents when device800returns in proximity to the bottle10.

User device800may use data gathered by the one or more sensors of bottle10to determine the safety status of bottle10and/or the contents disposed in bottle10. For example, user device800may determine when bottle10is in or enters a closed position or open position via open position sensor(s)210on lid200. Further, user device800may determine when the contents disposed in bottle10may have been changed via level sensor(s)118such that bottle10may be in an unsafe state. For example, bottle10may be more or less filled such that the contents disposed inside may have been manipulated. Additions may, for example, indicate that a foreign substance has been added that may be unsafe to consume. Temperature sensor(s) may be used to determine if a foreign substance has been added as well, by indicating a sudden change in the temperature of the contents. User device may, also determine that bottle10has been moved via GPS sensor(s). This may signal that bottle10may be in an unsafe state if the user is away from bottle10when it is moved.

In some embodiments, user device800and/or bottle10may provide indicator(s)300related to safety status data. For example, if bottle10is in an unsafe state, indicator(s)300may provide an unsafe indication (e.g., a red LED). In some embodiments, the unsafe indication displayed by indicator(s)300may be removed if bottle10and/or the contents disposed in bottle10enter a safe state. In some embodiments, indicator(s)300may remove an unsafe indication when safety notification is cleared or otherwise acknowledged.

In some embodiments, for example, safety system GUI may display safety status data that indicates the safety status of bottle10and/or the contents disposed in bottle10. In some embodiments, safety status data may include indicator(s)300related to the state of bottle10and/or the contents disposed in bottle10(e.g., with text, colors, flashes, sounds, etc.). In some embodiments, if an unsafe state is indicated on safety system GUI (e.g. with text, colors, flashes, sounds, blinking/pulsing/beeping indicator etc.), safety status data may further include information related to which sensor(s) of bottle10caused the unsafe state determination (e.g., that bottle10is in an open position while the user is away, the temperature and/or fill level of the contents changed signaling the presence of a foreign substance, the contents are pressurized above a predetermined threshold, the anti-microbial coating is insufficient, the contents are in a TDS state, etc.). In some embodiments, the information may include how bottle10is in an open position. For example, safety status data may show that opening208may be exposed (e.g., a tab on lid200has been removed from lid200or a straw has been removed from opening208). In some embodiments, indicator(s)300related to the state of bottle10and/or the contents disposed in bottle10and related safety status data may be provided to the user in a text message to user device800.

User device800may, in some embodiments, provide a safety notification to the user indicating, for example, an unsafe state of bottle10via display802and/or safety system GUI. In some embodiments, the unsafe indication on safety system GUI is removed if bottle10and/or the contents disposed in bottle10enter a safe state. In some embodiments, the unsafe indication is removed by a clearing or acknowledging action of safety notification. In some embodiments, the unsafe indication remains until safety notification is cleared or otherwise acknowledged. In an unsafe state, user device800may display a warning message, optionally requiring acknowledgement. In some embodiments, the warning message may be followed by an audio signal and/or haptic feedback on user device800. In other embodiments, a push notification may be provided to user device800, optionally requiring acknowledgement. Notifications may generally be stored in the user's app until cleared by user.

Methods of operating the safety system disclosed herein are also contemplated and include methods of operation described above.FIG.8shows an example block diagram illustrating aspects of a method of operating a safety system for a bottle (e.g., the embodiments shown inFIGS.1-18).

In some embodiments, user device800may be a computing device that controls a safety system related to bottle10during normal operation (e.g., when safety system is activated). As described above, user device800may include a display802that supports GUIs, including, for example, bottle GUI804related to bottle10and safety system GUI. Bottle10may communicate to user device800data gathered by sensor(s) such as level sensor(s)118, open position sensor(s)210, and GPS sensor(s). Bottle GUI804may correspondingly display, for example, water consumption data806, water level data, bottle10position data, location data, and safety status data.

For example, in some embodiments, at step810, safety system may be activated via safety system GUI on user device800. The activation810on user device800of a safety system is based on detecting the distance between bottle10and user device800. When it exceeds a pre-determined distance activation happens automatically (unless this function is deactivated by user on user's app). In some embodiments, at step820, a method of controlling safety system includes monitoring bottle10safety for failure of safe conditions that such that bottle10enters an unsafe state. User device800may process safety status data to determine the state of bottle10. The unsafe state may include when a user moves sufficiently far away from where bottle10is located such that bottle10disconnects from user device800. In addition, it may also detect—remotely or when device800is brought back in proximity of bottle10—if bottle10is or was in an open position (e.g., open/fill position20or open/drink position30). If bottle10enters an unsafe state, in some embodiments, step830provides indicator(s)300on user device800and/or on bottle10that signal the unsafe state. For example, if an unsafe state is signaled by safety status data on safety system GUI, similarly, indicator(s)300will provide an unsafe indication (e.g., a red LED) on bottle10.

In some embodiments, at step840, a user may acknowledge the unsafe state signaled by safety status data on user device800. The acknowledgement may, for example, be made via a tactile input on safety system GUI. In some embodiments, in step850, this user acknowledgement may remove the unsafe indication provided by indicator(s)300on bottle10.

Example accessories will now be described in detail. As shown inFIGS.9-10, in some embodiments, a heating accessory600may be configured to removably attach to base portion104of main body100. Heating accessory may include the components and configuration of bottom/accessory500, described above. Further, heating accessory600may, for example, provide heating to the contents disposed in bottle10. In some embodiments, heating accessory600includes a top portion602, a base portion604, a sidewall606, a battery608, and a locking element610.

In some embodiments base portion104of main body100may be configured to receive heating accessory600such that base portion104completely covers at least top portion602(e.g., base portion104may be threaded and/or of a larger diameter than at least top portion602). At least top portion602may be correspondingly configured (e.g., top portion may be threaded and/or of a smaller diameter than base portion104). For example, heating accessory600may screw, or simply be inserted into, base portion104. In some embodiments, the attachment may be a bayonet threaded turn, e.g., a ⅛-¼ turn. In some embodiments, base portion104may receive heating accessory600after a predetermined force is applied to it.

In some embodiments, heating accessory600need only be inserted into the recess of base portion104to achieve electrical continuity for operation. In some embodiments, locking element610may correspond to locking element128(FIG.1) of main body100. Engagement of locking element610with locking element128(e.g., a retractable button, such as a spring button, engaging with a slot) may place bottle10in the locked/accessorized position60. In some embodiments, a user may receive feedback, such as a tactile, visible, or audible signal, when the locking elements engage such that the user is aware that bottle10is in locked/accessorized position60. In some embodiments, a LED on bottle10may illuminate (normally in red) to show that bottle10's contents are been warmed up.

In some embodiments, battery608may be in position to power a flexible circuit124of main body100when bottle10is in locked/accessorized position60. In some embodiments, flexible circuit124may be disposed between inner sidewall108and outer sidewall110. When powered, flexible circuit124may provide heating to the contents disposed in bottle10. Further, in some embodiments, battery608is configured to be rechargeable (e.g., via a USB cable as shown inFIG.17). In some embodiments, battery608may be recharged while remaining within heating accessory600. Also, in some embodiments, battery608may be recharged while heating accessory600is attached to bottle10. Further, in some embodiments, top portion602may be closed. In some embodiments, heating accessory600may be an integral part of the bottle and cannot be removed—so that base portion104may be open such that top portion602provides a sealed bottom for main body100. Interior surface112of bottle reservoir116may be wrapped with flexible electrical resistance—heating—foil that is connected to124.

Methods of operating the heating accessory disclosed herein are also contemplated and include methods of operation described above.FIG.11shows an example block diagram illustrating aspects of a method of operating a heating accessory for a bottle (e.g., the embodiments shown inFIGS.1-11and17-18). As described above, bottle10may include main body100and bottom/accessory500. Main body100may include reservoir116in which contents for consumption are disposed and stored. Bottom/accessory500may be configured to change a characteristic of the contents disposed in bottle10. For example, heating accessory600may provide heating the contents disposed in bottle10. At step1110, heating accessory600may be attached to main body100. For example, heating accessory600may screw into base portion104of main body100. Base portion104may be threaded and/or of a larger diameter than top portion602of heating accessory600. At least top portion602may be correspondingly configured. For example, top portion702may be threaded and/or of a smaller diameter than base portion104.

Locking element610of heating accessory600may correspond to locking element128of main body100. In step1010, heating accessory600may attach to base portion104enough to engage locking element610with locking element128(e.g., a retractable button, such as a spring button, engages with a slot). In some embodiments, in step1120, heating accessory600may lock into bottle10such that bottle10enters the locked/accessorized position60. Once bottle10is in the locked/accessorized position60, heating accessory600may heat the contents of bottle10. Heating accessory600may contain a battery608which may power a flexible circuit124of main body100. When powered, flexible circuit124may provide heating to the contents disposed in bottle10. In some embodiments, flexible circuit124may extend throughout interior surface112of bottle reservoir116. In some embodiments, user device800may monitor the temperature of the contents via data gathered by the one or more sensors coupled to bottle10which may include a temperature sensor. In some embodiments, in step1130, a user may remove heating accessory600from bottle10when a desired temperature is reached. Battery608is configured to be rechargeable such that it may be charged when not in use, such as after step1030. In some embodiments, heating accessory600may not have batteries and, instead, is electrically connected to a source of energy (e.g., through a power cord to a wall socket).

As shown inFIGS.12-13, in some embodiments, a cooling accessory700may be configured to removably attach to base portion104of main body100of bottle10. Cooling accessory may include the components and configuration of bottom/accessory500, described above. Further, cooling accessory700may, for example, provide cooling to the contents disposed in bottle10. In some embodiments, cooling accessory700includes a top portion702, a base portion704, and a locking element706.

In some embodiments base portion104of main body100may be configured to receive cooling accessory700such that base portion104completely covers at least top portion702(e.g., base portion104may be threaded and/or of a larger diameter than at least top portion702). At least top portion702may be correspondingly configured (e.g., contain threading and/or a smaller diameter than base portion104). For example, cooling accessory700may screw into base portion104. In some embodiments, the attachment may be a bayonet threaded turn, e.g., a ⅛-¼ turn. In some embodiments, base portion104may receive cooling accessory700after a predetermined force is applied to it.

In some embodiments, locking element706may correspond to locking element128of main body100. Engagement of locking element706with locking element128(e.g., a retractable button, such as a spring button, engaging with a slot) may place bottle10in the locked/accessorized position60. In some embodiments, a user may receive feedback, such as a tactile or audible signal, when the locking elements engage such that the user is aware that bottle10is in locked/accessorized position60. In some embodiments, cooling accessory700may be in position to provide cooling to the contents disposed in bottle10while minimizing losses when bottle10is in locked/accessorized position60.

In some embodiments, top portion702may be open such that base portion104may be closed to provide a sealed bottom for main body100. As shown inFIGS.13-14, in some embodiments, cooling accessory700may further contain a top chamber710(e.g., an expansion chamber) and a bottom chamber750(e.g., a storage chamber) where top chamber710is arranged directly above bottom chamber750. Top chamber710may be configured to provide expansion of a gas stored in bottom chamber750(e.g., carbon dioxide).

In some embodiments, for example, bottom chamber750may include a refilling valve754. Refilling valve754may be configured to receive an input gas for storage in bottom chamber750(e.g., bottom chamber750may be charged with carbon dioxide). In some embodiments, refilling valve754may be configured to connect to carbon dioxide cylinders via an adapter. Cooling accessory700may be refillable with gas (e.g., carbon dioxide) at high pressure, via refilling valve754, using the identical process adopted by those skilled in the art of refilling cylinders or tank with gas. In some embodiments, bottom chamber750may further include a sidewall752. Sidewall752may be insulated such that a stored gas in bottom chamber750is retained. In some embodiments, base portion704is insulated. In some embodiments, base portion704may include at least part of bottom chamber750and sidewall752. In some embodiments, an insulated layer720may be disposed between top chamber710and bottom chamber750. Insulated layer720may contain a pressure regulating valve730that is partially disposed in both bottom chamber750and top chamber710.

With reference toFIG.15, in some embodiments, pressure regulating valve730may be configured to receive a gas stored in bottom chamber750(e.g., carbon dioxide) via an inlet734(i.e., primary port). Inlet734may be substantially disposed in bottom chamber750, accordingly. An expansion chamber732may retain the gas as it expands to the atmospheric pressure. Pressure regulating valve730may contain an outlet736(i.e., secondary port) through which the gas is released. Outlet736may be substantially disposed in top chamber710. In some embodiments, a pressurizing mechanism such as a diaphragm may act on the gas within expansion chamber732. Further, inlet734may correspond with inlet pressure sensor(s)738(i.e., sensor(s) for the primary). Outlet736may correspond with outlet pressure sensor(s)740(i.e., sensor(s) for the secondary). The inlet and outlet pressures may be obtained and communicated to a user with the same components and the same methods as described above. Pressure regulating valve730may further contain safety valve(s)742. This valve system is a workable option for those skilled in the art.

With reference toFIG.13-14, in some embodiments, top chamber710may include sidewall712that provides insulation, such that the output from pressure regulating valve730is retained. This also provides the benefit of avoiding freezing of the hands of the user. In some embodiments, top chamber710may further include a plurality of safety opening(s)714that correspond with safety valve(s)742. The expanded gas is able to escape via safety valve(s)742and safety opening(s)714such that top chamber710remains safe to use. In some embodiments, top portion702may include at least part of top chamber710and sidewall712. Further, top portion702may be open such that top chamber710is unsealed. Accordingly, heat exchange occurs where top portion702and base portion104are in communication. The expansion of carbon dioxide to atmospheric pressure provides cooling to the contents of bottle10.

Methods of operating the cooling accessory disclosed herein are also contemplated and include methods of operation described above.FIG.16shows an example block diagram illustrating aspects of a method of operating a cooling accessory for a bottle (e.g., the embodiments shown inFIGS.1-8and12-18). As described above, bottle10may include main body100and bottom/accessory500. Main body100may include reservoir116in which contents for consumption are disposed. Bottom/accessory500may be configured to change a characteristic of the contents disposed in bottle10. For example, cooling accessory700may provide chilling the contents disposed in bottle10. At step1610, cooling accessory700may be attached to main body100. For example, cooling accessory700may screw into base portion104of main body100. Base portion104may be threaded and/or of a larger diameter than top portion702of cooling accessory700. At least top portion702of cooling accessory700may be correspondingly configured. For example, top portion702may be threaded and/or of a smaller diameter than base portion104.

Locking element706of cooling accessory700may correspond to locking element128of main body100. In step1610, cooling accessory700may attach to base portion104enough to engage locking element610with locking element128(e.g., a retractable button, such as a spring button, engages with a slot). In some embodiments, in step1620, cooling accessory700may lock into bottle10such that bottle10enters the locked/accessorized position60. In some embodiments, a user may receive feedback, such as a tactile or audible signal, when the locking elements engage such that the user is aware that bottle10is in locked/accessorized position60. Once bottle10is in the locked/accessorized position60, the user may open pressure regulating valve730and cooling accessory700may cool the contents of bottle10.

Cooling accessory700may contain a pressure regulating valve730which expands a gas such as carbon dioxide received from bottom chamber750. Pressure regulating valve730may include an outlet736that releases the gas into top chamber710. Further, cooling accessory700may be fully insulated aside from top portion702of cooling accessory700. Top portion702may be in communication with base portion104of bottle10such that cooling accessory700provides cooling to the contents disposed in reservoir116. In some embodiments, user device800may monitor the temperature of the contents via data gathered by sensor(s) coupled to bottle10which may include a temperature sensor. In some embodiments, in step1620, the user may manually open pressure regulating valve730. In some embodiments, in step1640, a user may remove cooling accessory700from bottle10when the gas expansion has taken place. Bottom chamber750may include a refilling valve754that may be charged when not in use, such as after step1640. Accordingly, bottom chamber750may recharge for a subsequent operation of cooling accessory700. Immediately after step1640, the user must violently shake the contents of bottle10in order to avoid that bottom parts of content freezes and in order to equally distribute the heat to all contents.

With reference toFIGS.17-18, in some embodiments, bottle10may sense or communicate with user device800utilizing wired (e.g., via a USB cable) or wireless interfaces. In some embodiments, in order to support communication with other devices, bottle10may further contain one or more local wireless interface(s)400. For example, local wireless interface(s) may include interfaces for 802.11x wireless standards, Bluetooth, 900 mHz communication or the like. Utilizing such technologies or similar technologies, bottle10may communicate with the user by sending and receiving data from user device800, which may similarly contain wireless interface(s).

In some embodiments, bottle10may contain a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag. In some embodiments, user device800may communicate data regarding bottle10such as sensor data, and if bottle10contains a RFID tag, the identifying information regarding bottle10. Further, bottle10may, for example, connect with a plurality user devices that have identifying information related to bottle10. In this way, multiple user devices (e.g., user devices of the same user or of users in the same household) that have identifying information related to bottle10may communicate with the same. In some embodiments, data collected and/or processed by user device800may be stored locally by user device800, for example, within internal memory, or transmitted to a remote storage system (e.g., a cloud storage system) possibly in real time. The user devices may download the bottle app from the cloud. The user may open the bottle app on a user device800and pair user device800with one or more bottles (e.g., bottle10). In various embodiments, bottle10may be connected to user device800using a QR code, barcode, NFC, etc.

FIG.18illustrates an exemplary computer system1800in which embodiments, or portions thereof, may be implemented as computer-readable code. A control unit900as discussed herein may be a computer system having all or some of the components of computer system1800for implementing processes discussed herein.

If programmable logic is used, such logic may execute on a commercially available processing platform or a special purpose device. One of ordinary skill in the art may appreciate that embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may be practiced with various computer system configurations, including multi-core multiprocessor systems, minicomputers, and mainframe computers, computer linked or clustered with distributed functions, as well as pervasive or miniature computers that may be embedded into virtually any device.

For instance, at least one processor device and a memory may be used to implement the above described embodiments. A processor device may be a single processor, a plurality of processors, or combinations thereof. Processor devices may have one or more processor “cores.”

Various embodiments may be implemented in terms of this example computer system1800. After reading this description, it will become apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art how to implement one or more of the invention(s) using other computer systems and/or computer architectures. Although operations may be described as a sequential process, some of the operations may in fact be performed in parallel, concurrently, and/or in a distributed environment, and with program code stored locally or remotely for access by single or multi-processor machines. In addition, in some embodiments the order of operations may be rearranged without departing from the spirit of the disclosed subject matter.

Processor device1804may be a special purpose or a general purpose processor device. As will be appreciated by persons skilled in the relevant art, processor device1804may also be a single processor in a multi-core/multiprocessor system, such system operating alone, or in a cluster of computing devices operating in a cluster or server farm. Processor device1804is connected to a communication infrastructure1806, for example, a bus, message queue, network, or multi-core message-passing scheme.

Computer system1800also includes a main memory1808, for example, random access memory (RAM), and may also include a secondary memory1810. Secondary memory1810may include, for example, a hard disk drive1812, or removable storage drive1814. Removable storage drive1814may include a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, an optical disk drive, a flash memory, or the like. The removable storage drive1814reads from and/or writes to a removable storage unit1818in a well-known manner. Removable storage unit1818may include a floppy disk, magnetic tape, optical disk, a universal serial bus (USB) drive, etc. which is read by and written to by removable storage drive1814. As will be appreciated by persons skilled in the relevant art, removable storage unit1818includes a computer usable storage medium having stored therein computer software and/or data.

Computer system1800(optionally) includes display802(which may include input and output devices such as keyboards, mice, etc.) that forwards graphics, text, and other data from communication infrastructure1806(or from a frame buffer not shown) for display on display802.

In alternative implementations, secondary memory1810may include other similar means for allowing computer programs or other instructions to be loaded into computer system1800. Such means may include, for example, a removable storage unit1822and an interface1820. Examples of such means may include a program cartridge and cartridge interface (such as that found in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as an EPROM, or PROM) and associated socket, and other removable storage units1822and interfaces1820which allow software and data to be transferred from the removable storage unit1822to computer system1800.

Computer system1800may also include a communication interface1824. Communication interface1824allows software and data to be transferred between computer system1800and external devices. Communication interface1824may include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communication port, a PCMCIA slot and card, or the like. Software and data transferred via communication interface1824may be in the form of signals, which may be electronic, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals capable of being received by communication interface1824. These signals may be provided to communication interface1824via a communication path1826. Communication path1826carries signals and may be implemented using wire or cable, fiber optics, a phone line, a cellular phone link, an RF link or other communication channels.

In this document, the terms “computer program medium” and “computer usable medium” are used to generally refer to media such as removable storage unit1818, removable storage unit1822, and a hard disk installed in hard disk drive1812. Computer program medium and computer usable medium may also refer to memories, such as main memory1808and secondary memory1810, which may be memory semiconductors (e.g. DRAMs, etc.).

Computer programs (also called computer control logic) are stored in main memory1808and/or secondary memory1810. Computer programs may also be received via communication interface1824. Such computer programs, when executed, enable computer system1800to implement the embodiments as discussed herein. In particular, the computer programs, when executed, enable processor device1804to implement the processes of the embodiments discussed here. Accordingly, such computer programs represent controllers of the computer system1800. Where the embodiments are implemented using software, the software may be stored in a computer program product and loaded into computer system1800using removable storage drive1814, interface1820, and hard disk drive1812, or communication interface1824.

Embodiments of the invention(s) also may be directed to computer program products comprising software stored on any computer useable medium. Such software, when executed in one or more data processing device, causes a data processing device(s) to operate as described herein. Embodiments of the invention(s) may employ any computer useable or readable medium. Examples of computer useable mediums include, but are not limited to, primary storage devices (e.g., any type of random access memory), secondary storage devices (e.g., hard drives, floppy disks, CD ROMS, ZIP disks, tapes, magnetic storage devices, and optical storage devices, MEMS, nanotechnological storage device, etc.).

It is to be appreciated that the Detailed Description section, and not the Summary and Abstract sections, is intended to be used to interpret the claims. The Summary and Abstract sections may set forth one or more but not all exemplary embodiments of the present invention(s) as contemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit the present invention(s) and the appended claims in any way.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention(s) that others may, by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the present invention(s). Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance.

The breadth and scope of the present invention(s) should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.