US20080149523A1 - Disposable food delivery apparatus - Google Patents
Disposable food delivery apparatus Download PDFInfo
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- US20080149523A1 US20080149523A1 US12/006,283 US628307A US2008149523A1 US 20080149523 A1 US20080149523 A1 US 20080149523A1 US 628307 A US628307 A US 628307A US 2008149523 A1 US2008149523 A1 US 2008149523A1
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- food
- delivery apparatus
- utensil
- wall
- disposable
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C11/00—Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups A45C1/00-A45C9/00
- A45C11/20—Lunch or picnic boxes or the like
Definitions
- This invention relates to a disposable food delivery apparatus. More particularly, this invention relates to a disposable food delivery apparatus comprising a food container coupled to a food utensil member.
- the food container is pre-charged with food, such as a dehydrated food that can be rehydrated with water in the food container such that dehydrated food is rendered ready to eat.
- the food container illustratively comprises a port for receiving the water therein.
- the food container comprises a security seal for assuring that the food has not been contaminated prior to consumption.
- the food container comprises a valve for retaining liquids in the food container until the food is ready for consumption.
- a disposable food delivery device includes a food utensil disposed on a food container.
- the food container can be pre-charged with food, such as a dehydrated food, such that a liquid can be added to the dehydrated food to result in a ready-to-eat food at any selected time.
- the device includes a channel for conducting the food from the food container into the food utensil, where it is available for consumption.
- the food container or food utensil can illustratively can include a port for receiving the liquid to be added to the dehydrated food.
- the food container also illustratively can include a security seal for assuring that the food has not been contaminated prior to consumption.
- Another illustrative embodiment of the invention includes a valve for retaining liquid in the food container prior to consumption of the food.
- FIG. 1 shows an exploded side elevation view of an illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention.
- FIG. 2 shows a front elevation view of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 1 without the cap.
- FIG. 3 shows a top view of the food utensil portion of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 shows a sectional view along line 15 of the food utensil portion of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 shows side sectional view of the cap of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 shows a top view of the food container portion of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 7 shows a front elevation view of an illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention.
- FIG. 8 shows a side elevation view of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 9 shows a top view of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 10 shows a bottom view of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 11 shows a side elevation view of a plunger for use with the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 12 shows a side view of the plunger of FIG. 11 .
- FIG. 13 shows a top view of a pressure plate for use with the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 14 shows a side view of the pressure plate of FIG. 13 .
- FIG. 15 shows a front elevation view of a cap for use with the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 7 .
- FIG. 16 shows a side elevation view of the cap of FIG. 15 .
- FIG. 17 shows an exploded front elevation view of an illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention.
- FIG. 18 shows an exploded side elevation view of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 17 .
- FIG. 19 shows a top view of the food delivery apparatus of FIG. 17 .
- FIG. 20 shows an exploded front elevation view of an illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus according to the present invention.
- FIG. 21 shows a perspective cutaway view of an illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus according to the present invention.
- FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus according to the present invention.
- FIGS. 1-6 show an illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention.
- the food delivery apparatus 10 comprises a food container 12 , a food utensil 14 , and a cap 16 .
- the food container comprises a flexible bag 18 and a collar 20 .
- the flexible bag 18 is disposed on the collar 20 such that there is no leakage of liquid or semi-liquid food therebetween.
- the flexible bag 18 can be attached to the collar 20 by heat sealing, use of an appropriate adhesive, or the like, according to methods well known in the art.
- the flexible bag is made of a flexible plastic material, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or other suitable polymers.
- the flexible bag is sealed at the bottom 22 thereof, such as by heat sealing, thereby forming a vessel 24 for holding food.
- the collar 20 comprises a lower portion 26 (shown in phantom in FIG. 1 ) to which the flexible bag 18 is attached, a middle portion 28 coupled to the lower portion 26 , and a neck 30 coupled to the middle portion 28 .
- the neck 30 comprises a plurality of ridges 32 for use in releasably attaching the food container 12 to the food utensil 14 . This releasable attachment will be described in more detail below.
- the collar further comprises an opening 34 through which the food in the food container 12 can pass from the food container 12 to the food utensil 14 .
- this opening 34 is sealed with a seal 36 after placing a food, such as a dehydrated food, in the food container 12 at the factory. This seal prevents the entry of moisture or contaminants from contacting the food until the seal is removed by the consumer just prior to use.
- the food utensil 14 comprises a bowl 38 disposed on a funnel member 40 , which is in turn disposed on a ring member 42 .
- the lower edge of the funnel member 40 comprises a rim 44 .
- This rim 44 is configured for cooperatively engaging the inner surface of the cap 16 for holding the cap 16 in place over the bowl 38 and funnel member 40 , as will be described in more detail below.
- the funnel member 40 comprises a channel 46 for receiving food from the food container 12 and channeling it to the bowl 38 .
- the channel 46 ends at an opening 48 in the bowl 38 .
- food that is channeled through the channel 46 enters the bowl 38 through the opening 48 . Once the food is in the bowl 38 , it is ready to be eaten by the consumer.
- the ring member 42 of the food utensil 14 comprises and inner wall 47 on which are disposed a plurality of ridges 49 .
- These ridges 49 are configured to cooperatively engage the ridges 32 of the collar 20 such that the food utensil 14 can be attached to the collar 20 by twisting and tightening the food utensil 14 onto the collar 20 , resulting in a leak-proof seal of the top edge 35 of the neck 30 against the inside rim 45 of the food utensil 14 .
- Friction of the ridges 32 of the neck 30 against the inner ridges 49 of the food utensil 14 holds the top edge 35 against the inside rim 45 .
- the cap 16 comprises a housing 50 that defines a chamber 52 .
- the housing 50 comprises a side wall 54 and a top 56 disposed thereon. Extending downward from the top 56 is a plug 58 , which is configured for fitting into the channel 46 of the utensil when the cap 16 is in place over the bowl 38 and funnel member 40 .
- the plug 58 closes the channel 46 for preventing food from passing therethrough.
- the lower end of the inner wall 60 of the cap 16 is configured for cooperatively engaging the rim 44 of the food utensil 14 such that the cap 16 is held in place by friction of the inner wall 60 against the rim 44 .
- food such as instant mashed potatoes
- a seal 36 is placed over the opening 34 of the neck 30 to seal the food inside the food container 12 to prevent contamination of the food with water or other contaminants.
- the food utensil 14 is twisted onto the neck 30 of the food container 12 , and the cap 16 is placed on the food utensil 14 such that the plug 58 closes the channel 46 and the cap is held in place by the friction of the inner wall 60 against the rim 44 .
- the consumer uses the food delivery apparatus 10 by untwisting the food utensil 14 from the food container 12 , removing the seal 36 , adding hot water to the food contained in the food container (if such food is dehydrated food), and replacing the food utensil 14 .
- the food is rehydrated and mixed, if necessary, by manipulating the flexible bag 18 until mixing is complete.
- the plug 58 extending into the channel 46 prevents the food from passing through the channel 46 until the cap is removed.
- the cap is removed and the flexible bag is squeezed, thus allowing the flowable food to pass out of the food container through the opening 34 , through the funnel member 40 , through the channel 46 , and into the bowl 38 of the food utensil 14 .
- the food utensil 14 functions as a spoon, and the consumer can eat the food.
- the food delivery apparatus 10 can be disposed of.
- the bowl 38 can be replaced with a tubular, straw-like member.
- the food passes through the channel and the tubular, straw-like member.
- the consumer can place the tubular, straw-like member in her mouth and receive the flowable food directly therefrom.
- FIGS. 7-16 show another illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus 100 according to the present invention.
- the food delivery apparatus 100 comprises a food container 104 for holding a flowable food.
- the food container comprises a side wall 105 , which defines a chamber 106 .
- a funnel member 108 is disposed on the upper end of the food container 104 , comprising a neck 110 .
- Disposed on the neck 110 is a food utensil 112 .
- a channel 116 passes through the neck 110 to an opening 120 .
- the food delivery apparatus 100 further comprises a plunger 124 configured for fitting into the chamber 106 .
- the plunger 124 comprises a plug 128 configured for fitting into the funnel member 108 .
- the upper end 132 of the plug 128 is configured for being received into the channel 116 , thereby plugging the channel 116 and preventing the passage of food therethrough.
- the plunger also comprises a side wall 136 having an upper edge 140 configured for contacting the inner wall 144 of the food container 104 .
- the plunger 124 is configured to slide in the chamber 106 for pushing food contained in the chamber 106 through the funnel member 108 , into the channel 116 , and out through the opening 120 into the bowl 148 of the food utensil 112 .
- the upper edge 140 illustratively slides with little play next to the inner wall 144 such that virtually all of the food is scraped from the inner wall 144 and pushed into the funnel member 108 .
- a pressure plate 152 is conveniently disposed on the bottom edge 156 of the plunger 124 . Pressure applied to the pressure plate 152 causes the plunger 124 to slide in the chamber 106 , thereby pushing the food as described above.
- the food delivery apparatus 100 further comprises a cap 160 comprising a wall 164 defining a cavity 168 .
- the cap 160 is configured for fitting over the funnel member 108 and food utensil 112 for protecting them from contamination.
- An inner wall 172 of the cap 160 is configured for cooperatively associating with a rim 176 at an upper end of the side wall 105 of the food container 104 . Friction of the rim 176 against the inner wall 172 causes the cap 160 to remain in place disposed over the funnel member 108 and the food utensil 112 .
- the food delivery apparatus 100 is used by placing a flowable food, such as mashed potatoes or pureed food, such as a baby food, in the chamber 106 , placing the plunger 124 in the chamber 106 with the plug 128 toward the funnel member 108 , placing the pressure plate 152 at the bottom edge 156 of the plunger 124 , removing the cap 160 , and them applying pressure to the pressure plate 152 , thereby causing the plunger 124 to slide in the chamber 106 such that the food is pushed toward the funnel member 108 .
- a flowable food such as mashed potatoes or pureed food, such as a baby food
- the upper edge 140 of the side wall 136 of the plunger scrapes any food adhering to the inner wall 144 and pushes it toward the funnel member 108 , as well.
- Continued application of pressure pushes the food into the channel 116 , and eventually the food exits the channel 116 at the opening 120 such that the food is delivered to the bowl 148 of the food utensil 112 .
- the food is then available to be consumed.
- FIGS. 17-19 show another illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention.
- the food delivery apparatus 200 comprises a food container 204 comprising a front wall 208 , a back wall 212 , two side walls 216 and 220 , and a bottom 224 , which define a chamber 228 for holding the food.
- the side walls 216 and 220 and the bottom 224 are pleated in this illustrative embodiment.
- the food container 204 is made of a flexible material, such as a flexible plastic, so that applying pressure to the front wall 208 and the back wall 212 causes the side walls 216 and 220 and the bottom 224 to bend at the pleats 232 . This bending of the side walls 216 and 220 and the bottom 224 at the pleats results in a reduction of the volume contained in the chamber 228 and squeezing of the food out of the chamber 228 .
- a food utensil 236 comprising a neck 240 and a bowl 244 .
- the neck 240 is hollow, thus defining a conduit 248 , which is in open communication with the chamber 228 such that food squeezed out of the food container 204 enters the conduit 248 .
- additional squeezing of food out of the chamber 228 causes additional food to move out of the chamber 228 into the conduit 248 and to push food through the conduit 248 .
- the conduit 248 ends at an opening 252 in the bowl 244 . Food that is pushed through the conduit 248 enters the bowl 244 through this opening 252 .
- 17-19 also contains a ring 256 disposed around the neck 240 .
- This ring 256 prevents the bowl 244 from coming into contact with a table or other surface when the food delivery apparatus 200 is placed on such a table or other surface.
- the ring 256 assists in keeping the bowl 244 clean from contamination.
- the ring 256 also prevents a child from placing the bowl 244 too far into the mouth, and thus has a safety function. Further, the ring 256 prevents food from spilling from the opening 252 onto the front wall 208 , back wall 212 , or side walls 216 and 220 .
- the food container 204 and food utensil 236 can be molded as an integral unit such that the food container 204 and the food utensil 236 are made of the same material.
- the food delivery apparatus 200 further comprises a cap 260 ( FIGS. 17-18 ) configured for being placed over the bowl 244 and neck 240 for keeping these parts clean when not in use.
- the cap 260 comprises a side wall 264 and a top 268 , which define a cavity 272 configured for receiving the bowl 244 and neck 240 .
- the cap 260 can be made of a rigid material, such as a rigid plastic, such as polycarbonate.
- FIG. 20 shows another illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus according to the present invention.
- This embodiment of the food delivery apparatus 300 comprises a food container 304 comprising a side wall 308 and a bottom 312 , which define a chamber 316 for holding the food.
- the food container 304 includes an opening 320 through which the food can be transferred out of the food container 304 .
- a hollow food utensil 324 Disposed on the food container 304 is a hollow food utensil 324 comprising a lower portion 328 , a neck 332 , and a lid 336 .
- the lower portion 328 is configured to fit cooperatively over the opening 320 of the food container 304 to form a leak-proof seal.
- This leak-proof seal can be formed by any method known in the art, such as by heat sealing, by a twist seal, by an appropriate adhesive, and the like.
- the neck 332 and the lid 336 are separated from each other by a thin-walled section of the wall or break point 340 .
- the cap 344 comprises a wall 348 and a top 352 defining a chamber 356 configured for receiving the lid 336 and neck 332 of the food utensil 324 .
- the food is placed in the food container 304 , and the food utensil 324 and cap 344 are put in place in the factory.
- the consumer uses the food delivery apparatus 300 by removing the cap 344 , removing the lid 336 at the break point 340 , adding water if needed, replacing the lid 336 and cap 344 , mixing the contents of the food container 304 , then removing the cap 344 and lid 336 , and dispensing the food through the neck 332 for consumption.
- FIG. 21 shows another illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus 400 according to the present invention.
- This embodiment comprises a base 404 , which is attachable to a food container (not shown).
- the base comprises a fill door 408 configured for covering a fill port 412 .
- the fill port 412 is covered with a removable security seal 416 .
- Disposed on the base 404 is a food utensil 420 comprising a bowl 424 and a neck 428 .
- the neck is hollow such that food can flow from the food container to the neck 424 , and from the neck 424 to the bowl 428 .
- Across the opening of the neck 428 is another security seal 432 .
- This embodiment of the invention is used by opening the fill door 408 , removing the security seal 416 , and pouring water through the fill port 412 .
- the fill door 408 is then closed, and water is mixed with the food in the food container.
- the security seal 432 across the neck 428 of the food utensil 420 is removed, and food is squeezed out of the food container, through the neck 428 , and into the bowl 424 , where the food may be eaten by the consumer.
- FIG. 22 shows another illustrative embodiment of the invention.
- This food delivery apparatus 500 comprises a cap base 504 connected by a hinge 508 to a cap top 512 .
- the cap base comprises an opening 516 , which is covered by a security seal 520 .
- Disposed on the cap top 512 is a food utensil 524 comprising a hollow neck 528 on which is disposed a bowl 532 .
- An anti-spill valve 536 is configured across the hollow neck to prevent spills of food.
- This food delivery apparatus 500 is used by attaching the cap base 504 to a food container (not shown), which is filled with food at the factory.
- the consumer lifts the cap top 512 to reveal the security seal 520 .
- the security seal 520 is removed, thus clearing the opening 516 .
- Water can be poured through the opening 516 , and then the cap top 512 is closed and the water is mixed with the food in the food container.
- the food is then squeezed out of the food container, through the cap base 504 , through the cap top 512 , through the neck 528 , and into the bowl 532 where it available to be consumed.
- the food delivery apparatus of the present invention can be made by injection molding, blow molding, and other techniques known in the art of molding plastic parts.
Abstract
A disposable food delivery device is disclosed. The device includes a food utensil coupled to a food container. The food container can be pre-charged with food, such as a dehydrated food, such that a liquid can be added to the dehydrated food to result in a ready-to-eat food at any selected time. The food container illustratively can include a port for receiving the liquid. The food container also illustratively can include a security seal for assuring that the food has not been contaminated prior to consumption. Another illustrative embodiment of the invention includes a valve for retaining liquid in the food container prior to consumption of the food.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/919,793, filed Aug. 16, 2004, which is a division of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/080,283, filed Feb. 20, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,802,423, which are hereby incorporated in their entireties.
- Not applicable.
- This invention relates to a disposable food delivery apparatus. More particularly, this invention relates to a disposable food delivery apparatus comprising a food container coupled to a food utensil member. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, the food container is pre-charged with food, such as a dehydrated food that can be rehydrated with water in the food container such that dehydrated food is rendered ready to eat. In such an illustrative embodiment, the food container illustratively comprises a port for receiving the water therein. In another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the food container comprises a security seal for assuring that the food has not been contaminated prior to consumption. In still another illustrative embodiment of the invention, the food container comprises a valve for retaining liquids in the food container until the food is ready for consumption.
- In recent years, foods that are ready to eat or that can be prepared quickly and with a minimum of effort have become a growing part of the American diet. So-called “fast foods” are increasingly popular, but often are high in calories, high in fat, and low in nutritional quality. It will be appreciated that providing a food delivery device that provides for quick and easy preparation of healthy, nutritious food would be a significant advancement in the art.
- A disposable food delivery device is disclosed. The device includes a food utensil disposed on a food container. The food container can be pre-charged with food, such as a dehydrated food, such that a liquid can be added to the dehydrated food to result in a ready-to-eat food at any selected time. The device includes a channel for conducting the food from the food container into the food utensil, where it is available for consumption. The food container or food utensil can illustratively can include a port for receiving the liquid to be added to the dehydrated food. The food container also illustratively can include a security seal for assuring that the food has not been contaminated prior to consumption. Another illustrative embodiment of the invention includes a valve for retaining liquid in the food container prior to consumption of the food.
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FIG. 1 shows an exploded side elevation view of an illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention. -
FIG. 2 shows a front elevation view of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 1 without the cap. -
FIG. 3 shows a top view of the food utensil portion of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 shows a sectional view alongline 15 of the food utensil portion of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 shows side sectional view of the cap of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 shows a top view of the food container portion of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 7 shows a front elevation view of an illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention. -
FIG. 8 shows a side elevation view of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 9 shows a top view of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 10 shows a bottom view of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 11 shows a side elevation view of a plunger for use with the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 12 shows a side view of the plunger ofFIG. 11 . -
FIG. 13 . shows a top view of a pressure plate for use with the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 14 shows a side view of the pressure plate ofFIG. 13 . -
FIG. 15 shows a front elevation view of a cap for use with the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 7 . -
FIG. 16 shows a side elevation view of the cap ofFIG. 15 . -
FIG. 17 shows an exploded front elevation view of an illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention. -
FIG. 18 shows an exploded side elevation view of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 17 . -
FIG. 19 shows a top view of the food delivery apparatus ofFIG. 17 . -
FIG. 20 shows an exploded front elevation view of an illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus according to the present invention. -
FIG. 21 shows a perspective cutaway view of an illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus according to the present invention. -
FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus according to the present invention. - Before the present disposable food delivery apparatus and methods of making and using thereof are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the particular configurations, process steps, and materials disclosed herein as such configurations, process steps, and materials may vary somewhat. It is also to be understood that the terminology employed herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting since the scope of the present invention will be limited only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
- The publications and other reference materials referred to herein to describe the background of the invention and to provide additional detail regarding its practice are hereby incorporated by reference. The references discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the inventors are not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention.
- It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to disposable food delivery apparatus containing “a port” includes reference to an apparatus containing two or more of such ports, reference to “a utensil” includes reference to one or more of such utensils, and reference to “a valve” includes reference to two or more of such valves.
- In describing and claiming the present invention, the following terminology will be used in accordance with the definitions set out below.
- As used herein, “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” “characterized by,” and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. “Comprising” is to be interpreted as including the more restrictive terms “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of.”
- As used herein, “consisting of” and grammatical equivalents thereof exclude any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim.
- As used herein, “consisting essentially of” and grammatical equivalents thereof limit the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic or characteristics of the claimed invention.
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FIGS. 1-6 show an illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention. Thefood delivery apparatus 10 comprises afood container 12, afood utensil 14, and acap 16. The food container comprises aflexible bag 18 and acollar 20. Theflexible bag 18 is disposed on thecollar 20 such that there is no leakage of liquid or semi-liquid food therebetween. Theflexible bag 18 can be attached to thecollar 20 by heat sealing, use of an appropriate adhesive, or the like, according to methods well known in the art. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, the flexible bag is made of a flexible plastic material, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or other suitable polymers. The flexible bag is sealed at the bottom 22 thereof, such as by heat sealing, thereby forming avessel 24 for holding food. - The
collar 20 comprises a lower portion 26 (shown in phantom inFIG. 1 ) to which theflexible bag 18 is attached, amiddle portion 28 coupled to thelower portion 26, and aneck 30 coupled to themiddle portion 28. Theneck 30 comprises a plurality ofridges 32 for use in releasably attaching thefood container 12 to thefood utensil 14. This releasable attachment will be described in more detail below. - In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, the collar further comprises an
opening 34 through which the food in thefood container 12 can pass from thefood container 12 to thefood utensil 14. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, thisopening 34 is sealed with aseal 36 after placing a food, such as a dehydrated food, in thefood container 12 at the factory. This seal prevents the entry of moisture or contaminants from contacting the food until the seal is removed by the consumer just prior to use. - In an illustrative embodiment of the
food delivery apparatus 10, thefood utensil 14 comprises abowl 38 disposed on afunnel member 40, which is in turn disposed on aring member 42. The lower edge of thefunnel member 40 comprises arim 44. Thisrim 44 is configured for cooperatively engaging the inner surface of thecap 16 for holding thecap 16 in place over thebowl 38 and funnelmember 40, as will be described in more detail below. Thefunnel member 40 comprises achannel 46 for receiving food from thefood container 12 and channeling it to thebowl 38. Thechannel 46 ends at anopening 48 in thebowl 38. Thus, food that is channeled through thechannel 46 enters thebowl 38 through theopening 48. Once the food is in thebowl 38, it is ready to be eaten by the consumer. - As shown in
FIG. 4 , thering member 42 of thefood utensil 14 comprises andinner wall 47 on which are disposed a plurality ofridges 49. Theseridges 49 are configured to cooperatively engage theridges 32 of thecollar 20 such that thefood utensil 14 can be attached to thecollar 20 by twisting and tightening thefood utensil 14 onto thecollar 20, resulting in a leak-proof seal of thetop edge 35 of theneck 30 against theinside rim 45 of thefood utensil 14. Friction of theridges 32 of theneck 30 against theinner ridges 49 of thefood utensil 14 holds thetop edge 35 against theinside rim 45. - The
cap 16 comprises ahousing 50 that defines achamber 52. Thehousing 50 comprises a side wall 54 and a top 56 disposed thereon. Extending downward from the top 56 is aplug 58, which is configured for fitting into thechannel 46 of the utensil when thecap 16 is in place over thebowl 38 and funnelmember 40. Theplug 58 closes thechannel 46 for preventing food from passing therethrough. The lower end of theinner wall 60 of thecap 16 is configured for cooperatively engaging therim 44 of thefood utensil 14 such that thecap 16 is held in place by friction of theinner wall 60 against therim 44. - As mentioned above, in an illustrative embodiment of the invention, food, such as instant mashed potatoes, is placed in the
food container 12 in the factory, and aseal 36 is placed over the opening 34 of theneck 30 to seal the food inside thefood container 12 to prevent contamination of the food with water or other contaminants. Thefood utensil 14 is twisted onto theneck 30 of thefood container 12, and thecap 16 is placed on thefood utensil 14 such that theplug 58 closes thechannel 46 and the cap is held in place by the friction of theinner wall 60 against therim 44. The consumer uses thefood delivery apparatus 10 by untwisting thefood utensil 14 from thefood container 12, removing theseal 36, adding hot water to the food contained in the food container (if such food is dehydrated food), and replacing thefood utensil 14. The food is rehydrated and mixed, if necessary, by manipulating theflexible bag 18 until mixing is complete. It will be appreciated that theplug 58 extending into thechannel 46 prevents the food from passing through thechannel 46 until the cap is removed. Next, the cap is removed and the flexible bag is squeezed, thus allowing the flowable food to pass out of the food container through theopening 34, through thefunnel member 40, through thechannel 46, and into thebowl 38 of thefood utensil 14. Once the food is present in thebowl 38, thefood utensil 14 functions as a spoon, and the consumer can eat the food. After the food is consumed, thefood delivery apparatus 10 can be disposed of. - In an alternative embodiment of the food delivery apparatus of
FIGS. 1-6 , thebowl 38 can be replaced with a tubular, straw-like member. In this embodiment, the food passes through the channel and the tubular, straw-like member. The consumer can place the tubular, straw-like member in her mouth and receive the flowable food directly therefrom. -
FIGS. 7-16 show another illustrative embodiment of afood delivery apparatus 100 according to the present invention. Thefood delivery apparatus 100 comprises afood container 104 for holding a flowable food. The food container comprises aside wall 105, which defines achamber 106. Afunnel member 108 is disposed on the upper end of thefood container 104, comprising aneck 110. Disposed on theneck 110 is afood utensil 112. Achannel 116 passes through theneck 110 to anopening 120. - The
food delivery apparatus 100 further comprises aplunger 124 configured for fitting into thechamber 106. Theplunger 124 comprises aplug 128 configured for fitting into thefunnel member 108. Theupper end 132 of theplug 128 is configured for being received into thechannel 116, thereby plugging thechannel 116 and preventing the passage of food therethrough. The plunger also comprises aside wall 136 having anupper edge 140 configured for contacting theinner wall 144 of thefood container 104. Theplunger 124 is configured to slide in thechamber 106 for pushing food contained in thechamber 106 through thefunnel member 108, into thechannel 116, and out through theopening 120 into thebowl 148 of thefood utensil 112. Theupper edge 140 illustratively slides with little play next to theinner wall 144 such that virtually all of the food is scraped from theinner wall 144 and pushed into thefunnel member 108. Apressure plate 152 is conveniently disposed on thebottom edge 156 of theplunger 124. Pressure applied to thepressure plate 152 causes theplunger 124 to slide in thechamber 106, thereby pushing the food as described above. - Illustratively, the
food delivery apparatus 100 further comprises acap 160 comprising awall 164 defining acavity 168. Thecap 160 is configured for fitting over thefunnel member 108 andfood utensil 112 for protecting them from contamination. Aninner wall 172 of thecap 160 is configured for cooperatively associating with arim 176 at an upper end of theside wall 105 of thefood container 104. Friction of therim 176 against theinner wall 172 causes thecap 160 to remain in place disposed over thefunnel member 108 and thefood utensil 112. - The
food delivery apparatus 100 is used by placing a flowable food, such as mashed potatoes or pureed food, such as a baby food, in thechamber 106, placing theplunger 124 in thechamber 106 with theplug 128 toward thefunnel member 108, placing thepressure plate 152 at thebottom edge 156 of theplunger 124, removing thecap 160, and them applying pressure to thepressure plate 152, thereby causing theplunger 124 to slide in thechamber 106 such that the food is pushed toward thefunnel member 108. As theplunger 124 slides against theinner wall 144 of thefood container 104, theupper edge 140 of theside wall 136 of the plunger scrapes any food adhering to theinner wall 144 and pushes it toward thefunnel member 108, as well. Continued application of pressure pushes the food into thechannel 116, and eventually the food exits thechannel 116 at theopening 120 such that the food is delivered to thebowl 148 of thefood utensil 112. The food is then available to be consumed. -
FIGS. 17-19 show another illustrative food delivery apparatus according to the present invention. Thefood delivery apparatus 200 comprises afood container 204 comprising afront wall 208, aback wall 212, twoside walls chamber 228 for holding the food. Theside walls food container 204 is made of a flexible material, such as a flexible plastic, so that applying pressure to thefront wall 208 and theback wall 212 causes theside walls pleats 232. This bending of theside walls chamber 228 and squeezing of the food out of thechamber 228. - Disposed on the
food container 204 is afood utensil 236 comprising aneck 240 and abowl 244. Theneck 240 is hollow, thus defining aconduit 248, which is in open communication with thechamber 228 such that food squeezed out of thefood container 204 enters theconduit 248. It will be appreciated that additional squeezing of food out of thechamber 228 causes additional food to move out of thechamber 228 into theconduit 248 and to push food through theconduit 248. Theconduit 248 ends at anopening 252 in thebowl 244. Food that is pushed through theconduit 248 enters thebowl 244 through thisopening 252. The illustrative embodiment of the invention shown inFIGS. 17-19 also contains aring 256 disposed around theneck 240. Thisring 256 prevents thebowl 244 from coming into contact with a table or other surface when thefood delivery apparatus 200 is placed on such a table or other surface. Thus, thering 256 assists in keeping thebowl 244 clean from contamination. Thering 256 also prevents a child from placing thebowl 244 too far into the mouth, and thus has a safety function. Further, thering 256 prevents food from spilling from theopening 252 onto thefront wall 208,back wall 212, orside walls - The
food container 204 andfood utensil 236 can be molded as an integral unit such that thefood container 204 and thefood utensil 236 are made of the same material. - The
food delivery apparatus 200 further comprises a cap 260 (FIGS. 17-18 ) configured for being placed over thebowl 244 andneck 240 for keeping these parts clean when not in use. Thecap 260 comprises aside wall 264 and a top 268, which define acavity 272 configured for receiving thebowl 244 andneck 240. Thecap 260 can be made of a rigid material, such as a rigid plastic, such as polycarbonate. -
FIG. 20 shows another illustrative embodiment of a food delivery apparatus according to the present invention. This embodiment of thefood delivery apparatus 300 comprises afood container 304 comprising aside wall 308 and a bottom 312, which define achamber 316 for holding the food. Thefood container 304 includes anopening 320 through which the food can be transferred out of thefood container 304. - Disposed on the
food container 304 is ahollow food utensil 324 comprising alower portion 328, aneck 332, and alid 336. Thelower portion 328 is configured to fit cooperatively over the opening 320 of thefood container 304 to form a leak-proof seal. This leak-proof seal can be formed by any method known in the art, such as by heat sealing, by a twist seal, by an appropriate adhesive, and the like. Theneck 332 and thelid 336 are separated from each other by a thin-walled section of the wall or break point 340. - The
cap 344 comprises awall 348 and a top 352 defining achamber 356 configured for receiving thelid 336 andneck 332 of thefood utensil 324. - Illustratively, the food is placed in the
food container 304, and thefood utensil 324 andcap 344 are put in place in the factory. The consumer uses thefood delivery apparatus 300 by removing thecap 344, removing thelid 336 at the break point 340, adding water if needed, replacing thelid 336 andcap 344, mixing the contents of thefood container 304, then removing thecap 344 andlid 336, and dispensing the food through theneck 332 for consumption. -
FIG. 21 shows another illustrative embodiment of afood delivery apparatus 400 according to the present invention. This embodiment comprises abase 404, which is attachable to a food container (not shown). The base comprises afill door 408 configured for covering afill port 412. In this embodiment, thefill port 412 is covered with aremovable security seal 416. Disposed on thebase 404 is afood utensil 420 comprising abowl 424 and aneck 428. The neck is hollow such that food can flow from the food container to theneck 424, and from theneck 424 to thebowl 428. Across the opening of theneck 428 is anothersecurity seal 432. - This embodiment of the invention is used by opening the
fill door 408, removing thesecurity seal 416, and pouring water through thefill port 412. Thefill door 408 is then closed, and water is mixed with the food in the food container. Next, thesecurity seal 432 across theneck 428 of thefood utensil 420 is removed, and food is squeezed out of the food container, through theneck 428, and into thebowl 424, where the food may be eaten by the consumer. -
FIG. 22 shows another illustrative embodiment of the invention. Thisfood delivery apparatus 500 comprises acap base 504 connected by ahinge 508 to acap top 512. The cap base comprises anopening 516, which is covered by asecurity seal 520. Disposed on thecap top 512 is afood utensil 524 comprising ahollow neck 528 on which is disposed abowl 532. Ananti-spill valve 536 is configured across the hollow neck to prevent spills of food. - This
food delivery apparatus 500 is used by attaching thecap base 504 to a food container (not shown), which is filled with food at the factory. The consumer lifts thecap top 512 to reveal thesecurity seal 520. Thesecurity seal 520 is removed, thus clearing theopening 516. Water can be poured through theopening 516, and then thecap top 512 is closed and the water is mixed with the food in the food container. The food is then squeezed out of the food container, through thecap base 504, through thecap top 512, through theneck 528, and into thebowl 532 where it available to be consumed. - The food delivery apparatus of the present invention can be made by injection molding, blow molding, and other techniques known in the art of molding plastic parts.
Claims (16)
1. A disposable food delivery apparatus comprising:
(a) a food container comprising a front wall, a back wall, two side walls, and a bottom, which define a chamber, which has a volume, for holding food, wherein the two side walls are pleated and wherein the food container comprises a flexible material such that applying pressure to the front wall and back wall results in bending of the two side walls along the pleats to thereby cause a reduction of the volume of the chamber, thereby squeezing food out of the chamber that may be contained therein; and
(b) a food utensil disposed on the food container, wherein the food utensil comprises
a hollow neck forming a conduit in open communication with the chamber such that food squeezed out of the food container enters the conduit, and
a bowl disposed on the hollow neck;
wherein the food utensil is non-removably fixed with respect to the food container.
2. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the bowl comprises an opening in communication with the conduit such that pushing food through the conduit causes food to pass through the opening and be received in the bowl.
3. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a ring disposed around the neck.
4. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the food container and the food utensil are molded as an integral unit.
5. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a cap comprising a side wall and a top for defining a cavity configured for receiving the bowl and the neck.
6. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the bottom is pleated such that when pressure is applied to the front wall and the back wall, the bottom bends along the pleats in the bottom to reduce a dimension of the bottom between the front wall and the back wall.
7. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the food utensil is positioned opposite the bottom.
8. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 1 wherein the front wall and the back, wall are characterized by an absence of pleats.
9. A disposable food delivery apparatus comprising:
(a) a food container comprising a front wall, a back wall, two side walls, and a bottom, which define a chamber, which has a volume, for holding food, wherein the two side walls are pleated and wherein the food container comprises a flexible material such that applying pressure to the front wall and back wall results in bending of the two side walls along the pleats to thereby cause a reduction of the volume of the chamber, thereby squeezing food out of the chamber that may be contained therein; and
(b) a food utensil disposed on the food container, wherein the food utensil comprises
a hollow neck forming a conduit in open communication with the chamber such that food squeezed out of the food container enters the conduit, and
a bowl or a tubular straw-like member disposed on the hollow neck;
wherein the food utensil further comprises a ring disposed around the neck;
wherein the ring is disposed on an end of the food utensil closest to and in contact with the food container, and the ring comprises a wall that projects in a radial direction from the neck and terminates in a free end in the radial direction.
10. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 9 wherein the bottom is pleated such that when pressure is applied to the front wall and the back wall, the bottom bends along the pleats in the bottom to reduce a dimension of the bottom between the front wall and the back wall.
11. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 9 wherein the food utensil is positioned opposite the bottom.
12. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 9 wherein the front wall and the back wall are characterized by an absence of pleats.
13. A disposable food delivery apparatus comprising:
(a) a food container comprising a front wall, a back wall, two side walls, and a bottom, which define a chamber, which has a volume, for holding food, wherein the two side walls are pleated and wherein the food container comprises a flexible material such that applying pressure to the front wall and back wall results in bending of the two side walls along the pleats to thereby cause a reduction of the volume of the chamber, thereby squeezing food out of the chamber that may be contained therein; and
(b) a food utensil disposed on the food container, wherein the food utensil comprises
a hollow neck forming a conduit in open communication with the chamber such that food squeezed out of the food container enters the conduit, and
a bowl or a tubular straw-like member disposed on the hollow neck; and
(c) a cap comprising a side wall and a top for defining a cavity configured for receiving the bowl or tubular straw-like member and the neck;
wherein the cap side wall defines a radial projecting step extending toward an exterior of the cap forming an abutment to limit movement of the cap on the food utensil.
14. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 13 wherein the bottom is pleated such that when pressure is applied to the front wall and the back wall, the bottom bends along the pleats in the bottom to reduce a dimension of the bottom between the front wall and the back wall.
15. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 13 wherein the food utensil is positioned opposite the bottom.
16. The disposable food delivery apparatus of claim 13 wherein the front wall and the back wall are characterized by an absence of pleats.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/006,283 US20080149523A1 (en) | 2002-02-20 | 2007-12-31 | Disposable food delivery apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/080,283 US6802423B2 (en) | 2002-02-20 | 2002-02-20 | Disposable food delivery apparatus |
US10/919,793 US7374046B1 (en) | 2002-02-20 | 2004-08-16 | Disposable food delivery apparatus |
US12/006,283 US20080149523A1 (en) | 2002-02-20 | 2007-12-31 | Disposable food delivery apparatus |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/919,793 Continuation US7374046B1 (en) | 2002-02-20 | 2004-08-16 | Disposable food delivery apparatus |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20080149523A1 true US20080149523A1 (en) | 2008-06-26 |
Family
ID=50070202
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/919,793 Expired - Fee Related US7374046B1 (en) | 2002-02-20 | 2004-08-16 | Disposable food delivery apparatus |
US12/006,283 Abandoned US20080149523A1 (en) | 2002-02-20 | 2007-12-31 | Disposable food delivery apparatus |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/919,793 Expired - Fee Related US7374046B1 (en) | 2002-02-20 | 2004-08-16 | Disposable food delivery apparatus |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (2) | US7374046B1 (en) |
Cited By (7)
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USD636890S1 (en) | 2009-09-17 | 2011-04-26 | Sands Innovations Pty. Ltd. | Dispensing utensil |
US20110186597A1 (en) * | 2010-01-29 | 2011-08-04 | Thomas Schaefer | Baby food spoon |
US8091242B2 (en) | 2004-01-02 | 2012-01-10 | Sands Innovations Pty Ltd | Dispensing utensil |
US8485360B2 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2013-07-16 | Sands Innovations Pty, Ltd. | Fracturable container |
US8511500B2 (en) | 2010-06-07 | 2013-08-20 | Sands Innovations Pty. Ltd. | Dispensing container |
US8523016B2 (en) | 2008-12-09 | 2013-09-03 | Sands Innovations Pty Ltd. | Dispensing container |
US8919594B2 (en) | 2007-01-31 | 2014-12-30 | Sands Innovations Pty Ltd | Dispensing container |
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US8459504B2 (en) * | 2008-09-12 | 2013-06-11 | Paula Braxton | Food dispensing mouthpiece |
US7975386B1 (en) * | 2009-02-27 | 2011-07-12 | Halvorson Lisa R | Infant feeding system |
USD708318S1 (en) | 2011-09-02 | 2014-07-01 | Oms Investments, Inc. | Dosing spoon |
US9254951B2 (en) | 2012-08-20 | 2016-02-09 | Alyse N. Merritt | Advanced condiment dispensing device |
ES2661584T3 (en) | 2012-10-02 | 2018-04-02 | Performance Packaging Of Nevada Llc | Apparatus for oral administration of liquid and semi-solid foods |
USD720217S1 (en) | 2012-10-30 | 2014-12-30 | Performance Packaging Of Nevada, Llc | Flexible oral dispensing apparatus |
US9635965B2 (en) | 2013-06-04 | 2017-05-02 | Pouch Pac Innovations, Llc | Fitment with spoon |
US10390570B2 (en) * | 2016-04-20 | 2019-08-27 | Christie Petersen | Portable self-feeding bib |
US10202223B2 (en) * | 2017-06-30 | 2019-02-12 | United Arab Emirates University | Multi-purpose cap for tube dispenser |
USD972376S1 (en) * | 2021-12-28 | 2022-12-13 | Think Green Limited | Spoon tip |
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US8091242B2 (en) | 2004-01-02 | 2012-01-10 | Sands Innovations Pty Ltd | Dispensing utensil |
US8528736B2 (en) | 2004-01-02 | 2013-09-10 | Sands Innovations Pty Ltd. | Frangible container with hinge cover |
US8919594B2 (en) | 2007-01-31 | 2014-12-30 | Sands Innovations Pty Ltd | Dispensing container |
US8523016B2 (en) | 2008-12-09 | 2013-09-03 | Sands Innovations Pty Ltd. | Dispensing container |
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Also Published As
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US7374046B1 (en) | 2008-05-20 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |