US20240043175A1

US20240043175A1 - Multilayer drinking can system

Info

Publication number: US20240043175A1
Application number: US18/372,312
Authority: US
Inventors: Tyler Hendrix
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2021-10-01
Filing date: 2023-09-25
Publication date: 2024-02-08

Abstract

A multilayer mixing and drinking can system can include a pod having an opening mechanism that at least partially defines a first compartment that contains a first dry or liquid component of a final mixed drink. An adapter connects the pod to a container that contains a second dry or liquid component of the final mixed drink. The opening mechanism can include a puncture mechanism that is constructed and arranged to puncture a seal member in the opening mechanism, thereby causing the first compartment to be in fluid communication with an inside of the container in order to mix the first dry or liquid component with the second dry or liquid component.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part to U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 18/143,653 filed May 5, 2023 which is a continuation-in-part to U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 17/492,302 filed Oct. 1, 2021, entitled “MULTILAYER DRINKING CAN SYSTEM” which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The embodiments generally relate to containers.

BACKGROUND

Beverage containers such as tin cans, steel cans, aluminum cans, plastic cans, and the like typically contain a fluid or content and may be opened via a can opener, pull-tab, or can tab hingedly affixed to the top of a can such that the top of the can may be partially opened or entirely removed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This summary is provided to introduce a variety of concepts in a simplified form that is further disclosed in the detailed description of the embodiments. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended for determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.
The embodiments described herein generally relate to a dual compartment, dual function mixing and drinking container. The multilayer drinking system may include two vertically stacked first and second compartments separated by a membrane or seal, each containing one dry or liquid component of a final mixed drink. In operation, each compartment holds one component to be mixed with the other compartment. A user may use a tab to open the can which motion also breaks the seal between each compartment, causing the components contained within each compartment to mix together.
The multilayer drinking can system may include a container shaped as a bottle constructed of plastic, metal, or similar known materials. The opening mechanism is engaged with the top of the container having a puncture mechanism disposed within a protective cover. The protective cover may prevent the user from accidentally puncturing the seal member.
The embodiments described herein also relate to a multilayer drinking can system, which can include a pod having an opening mechanism that at least partially defines a first compartment that contains a first dry or liquid component of a final mixed drink. An adapter connects the pod to a container that contains a second dry or liquid component of the final mixed drink. The opening mechanism can include a puncture mechanism that is constructed and arranged to puncture a seal member in the opening mechanism, thereby causing the first compartment to be in fluid communication with an inside of the container in order to mix the first dry or liquid component with the second dry or liquid component.
The multilayer drinking can system is useful for conveniently mixing infused beverages or any two drink powders and liquids without requiring a separate mixing container. After the two components are mixed the multilayer drinking can system serves as a readily available drinking container.
Other illustrative variations within the scope of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. The detailed description and enumerated variations, while disclosing optional variations, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A complete understanding of the present embodiments and the advantages and features thereof will be more readily understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a multilayer drinking can system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an opener for a multilayer drinking can system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a multilayer drinking can system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 4 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a multilayer drinking can system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 5 illustrates a side elevation view of the container including the multilayer drinking can system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a multilayer drinking can system wherein the container is closed, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a multilayer drinking can system wherein the container is punctured, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the multilayer drinking can system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 9A illustrates a view of a multilayer drinking can system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-sectional view of a multilayer drinking can system taken along line 9B-9B in FIG. 9A, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 9C illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of a multilayer drinking can system, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 9D illustrates a view of a multilayer drinking can system with the pod and the adapter removed from the container, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 9E illustrates a view of a multilayer drinking can system without the pod, according to some embodiments; and

FIG. 9F illustrates a cross-sectional view of a multilayer drinking can system having different adapters and containers, according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The specific details of the single embodiment or variety of embodiments described herein are to the described apparatus. Any specific details of the embodiments are used for demonstration purposes only, and no unnecessary limitations or inferences are to be understood therefrom.
Before describing in detail exemplary embodiments, it is noted that the embodiments reside primarily in combinations of components and procedures related to the apparatus. Accordingly, the apparatus components have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
The specific details of the single embodiment or variety of embodiments described herein are set forth in this application. Any specific details of the embodiments are used for demonstration purposes only, and no unnecessary limitation or inferences are to be understood therefrom. Furthermore, as used herein, relational terms, such as “first” and “second,” “top” and “bottom,” and the like, may be used to distinguish one entity or element from another entity or element without necessarily requiring or implying any physical or logical relationship, or order between such entities or elements.
The embodiments described herein generally relate to a dual compartment container constructed and arranged for mixing of ingredients disposed within the container. The dual compartment container may include a body, top or lid, and bottom, wherein the dual compartment container may be generally cylindrical.
The body, top, and bottom of the dual compartment container may define at least one compartment constructed and arranged for storing contents. The dual compartment container may include a seal member disposed within the compartment, thereby separating the compartment into a first compartment and a second compartment. Each of the first compartment and second compartment may contain similar or distinct fluids, powders, solids, or the like. According to some embodiments, the dual compartment container may be made wholly or partially of metal such as tin, steel, aluminum or may include polymer such as a transparent plastic such that a user may see the separated first compartment and second compartment and the contents contained therein prior to opening and the mixing of the contents in the first compartment and second compartment after opening. Other appropriate materials may make up any of the components of the invention and the examples provided should not be considered limiting.
A tab opening or similar can opener may be integrated with the top or bottom of the dual compartment container and may be constructed and arranged to function as a lever such that when one portion of the tab is lifted by a user, the opposite end of the tab may exert force on at least a portion of the top or bottom of the dual compartment container in order to puncture or break an opening within the top or bottom. In some instances, the top or bottom may include a scored tongue constructed and arranged to break along the score when force is exerted by the tab on the tongue. The tab may be constructed and arranged to simultaneously open the dual compartment container and break or puncture the seal member between the first compartment and the second compartment.
According to some embodiments, at least a portion of the tab may be constructed and arranged to hingedly travel into a portion of the first compartment and abut, break, or puncture the seal member. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the tab may be constructed and arranged to hingedly travel into a portion of the first compartment and puncture, break, or otherwise create a through hole in the seal member such that the contents of the first compartment and the second compartment may mix together by passing through the through hole in the seal member. According to some embodiments, the tab may include a puncture mechanism extending from a portion of the tab, the puncture mechanism being constructed and arranged to puncture, break, or otherwise create a through hole in the seal member.
The seal member may be integrated within the dual compartment container and may include any suitable material for separating the first compartment from the second compartment such as, but not limited to, polymer, metal, or the like.
Some embodiments described herein generally relate to a multilayer drinking can system, which can include a pod having an opening mechanism that at least partially defines a first compartment that contains a first dry or liquid component of a final mixed drink. The first dry or liquid component is fluidly sealed by a seal member in the opening mechanism. An adapter connects the pod to a container that contains a second dry or liquid component of the final mixed drink. The container can include a can such as a tin can, steel can, aluminum can, plastic can, etc. that may be opened via a can opener, pull-tab, can tab, etc.
The opening mechanism can include a puncture mechanism that is constructed and arranged to puncture the seal member in the opening mechanism, thereby causing the first compartment to be in fluid communication with an inside of the container in order to mix the first dry or liquid component with the second dry or liquid component. After mixing, a user can remove the pod from the adapter and drink the mixed drink from a rim of the adapter. The mixed drink can be resealed by engaging the same pod or a different pod with the adapter.
FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a multilayer drinking can system 100 including a body 102 having a generally cylindrical sidewall, a bottom, and a top or lid. The top may include a scored tongue 106. A tab 104 may be pivotably or rotatably secured to a portion of the top such that the tab 104 may function as a lever to exert force on the tongue 106 constructed and arranged to break along the score when force is exerted by the tab on the tongue.
FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an opening mechanism 200 for a multilayer drinking can system that may include a tab 204 such as a can tab which may be connected to a portion of a top or lid of a container such that the tab 204 may pivot on the lid. The tab 204 may be constructed and arranged to exert force on a tongue 206 of the top or lid. At least one puncture mechanism 208 may be disposed on the tongue 206, and in some embodiments, on the bottom of the tongue 206. According to some variations, the puncture mechanism 208 may be generally spike shaped, cone shaped, hook shaped, or any other arrangement sufficient for piercing, puncturing, or breaking the seal member. According to some embodiments, the puncture mechanism 208 may include a plurality of puncture mechanisms 208.
FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a multilayer drinking can system 300 having a body 302 and a seal member 310 disposed within the body, the body 302 and seal member 310 defining a first compartment 318 and a second compartment 314. The multilayer drinking can system 300 may include a top 320 having a tongue 306, the tongue 306 being constructed and arranged to at least partially break or bend away from the top 320 to define a first through hole 316 in the multilayer drinking can system 300. A tab 304 may be pivotably connected to the top 320 constructed and arranged to apply a force to the tongue 306 to facilitate defining the first through hole 316. The tongue 306 may include a puncture mechanism 308 constructed and arranged to puncture, rip, break, or otherwise pass through a portion of the seal member 310 to define a second through hole 312 in the seal member 310. In this way, the first compartment 318 and the second compartment 314 may be in fluid communication with one another by simultaneously opening the dual compartment container 300 and puncturing the seal member 310.
FIG. 4 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a multilayer drinking can system 400 having a seal member 410 disposed therein and defining a first compartment 418 and a second compartment 414. The multilayer drinking can system 400 may have a top 420 removably attached to the body 402 and in mechanical communication with a tab 404 such that the tab 404 may force the top 420 away from the body 402 to define a first through hole. The top 402, tab 404, or both may have a puncture mechanism 408 disposed on or integrated therewith such that when the tab 404 is used, force may be exerted on the top 402 in order to open the multilayer drinking can system 400 and puncture the seal member 410 via the puncture mechanism 408.
FIGS. 5-8 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the multilayer drinking can system. In specific reference to FIG. 5 , the container 500 is illustrated having an embodiment of the opening mechanism 200 positioned thereon. The opening mechanism 200, in the illustrated embodiments is further detailed in FIGS. 6-8 . The container 500 as illustrated shows a bottle which may be constructed of plastics, metal, or other suitable materials commonly known in the arts. The opening mechanism 200 is threadingly engaged, frictionally engaged, or integrally molded to the container 500. The opening mechanism includes a mating portion 501 which engages with the top 503 of the container. A central portion 505 contains the puncture mechanism and fluid.
FIGS. 6-7 illustrate the opening mechanism 200, according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the opening mechanism is connected to the container illustrated in FIG. 5 . The opening mechanism 200 is a component of a multilayer drinking system including a central portion 505 which contains the first compartment 600 which contains a first fluid which is mixed with the second fluid contained within the second compartment of the container. A protective cover 601 forms the outer housing of the opening mechanism 200. The protective cover may prevent the puncture mechanism 208 from accidentally puncturing the container 200. A hinge 603 allows the user to depress the top portion 605 of the opening mechanism 200 to puncture and mix the first fluid and the second fluids. In some embodiments, the hinge 603 is elastic and can return the top portion 605 of the opening mechanism 200 back to its initial position prior to being depressed.
In some embodiments, the sealing member may be a heat induction lid which is capable of being punctured by the puncture mechanism.
FIG. 8 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the opening mechanism 200. The puncture mechanism 208 is housed within the protective cover 601 in an upwards facing configuration. During use, the opening mechanism 200 is unthreaded or otherwise disengaged from the container to allow the user to puncture and mix the first and second liquids.
In some embodiments, the opening mechanism 200 is seperable from the container 500. In such, the user may selectively engage an opening mechanism 200 containing a liquid with a container they purchase from a store. For example, the opening mechanism may readily engage with a soda can, energy drink can, bottle, or other liquid container which the user purchases at a grocery store. Once engaged, the opening mechanism 200 punctures the container 500 to mix the fluids. The opening mechanism 200 may snap onto the container 500, form a threaded engagement, or otherwise be affixed to the container 500.
FIGS. 9A-9E illustrate an alternative embodiment of a multilayer drinking can system 900. With reference to FIGS. 9A-9C, a container 901 is illustrated having an adapter 940 positioned thereon. A pod 930 is positioned on the adapter 940. The pod 930 includes an embodiment of the opening mechanism 200 that extends at least from a top portion 954 of the pod 930 into a first compartment 918 defined by the pod 930. In some embodiments, the container 901 can be any container that can be purchased from a store. For example, the container 901 can include an aluminum can purchased from a grocery store.
A bottom portion 942 of the adapter 940 can be constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion 920 of the container 901. The bottom portion 942 of the adapter 940 can be constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion 920 of the container 901 so that the bottom portion 942 of the adapter 940 is in fluidly sealed communication with the top portion 920 of the container 901. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 942 of the adapter 940 can be constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion 920 of the container 901 when the bottom portion 942 of the adapter 940 securely attaches to (e.g., snaps onto) the top portion 920 of the container 901. Notches 998 can be formed in the bottom portion 942 of the adapter 940 so that the bottom portion 942 of the adapter 940 can, for example, snap onto and snap off the top portion 920 of the container 901. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 942 of the adapter 940 can be constructed and arranged to conform to and retain a rim 922 of the top portion 920 of the container 901. In some embodiments, an o-ring 988 that is connected to, or is otherwise integrated with the bottom portion 942 of the adapter can be constructed and arranged to be in fluidly sealed communication with the top portion 920 of the container 901. The o-ring 988 can be arranged inside the rim 922 of the container 901. For example, the o-ring 988 can be arranged along an inner surface of the rim 922 of the container 901. A gripping member 992 can be connected to, or can be otherwise integrated with an outer surface of the adapter 940. In some embodiments, the adapter 940 can be removable from the container 901, as shown in FIG. 9D.
Referring to FIG. 9C, a top portion 944 of the adapter 940 can be constructed and arranged to engage with a bottom portion 952 of the pod 930. For example, the top portion 944 of the adapter 940 can be constructed and arranged to be in threaded communication with the bottom portion 952 of the pod 930. In some embodiments, the top portion 944 of the adapter 940 can be constructed and arranged to engage with the bottom portion 952 of the pod 930 so that the top portion 944 of the adapter 940 is in fluidly sealed communication with the bottom portion 952 of the pod 930. The pod 930 can be removable from the adapter 940, as shown in FIGS. 9D and 9E.
The pod 930 can include an embodiment of an opening mechanism 200 and a seal member 910. In some embodiments, the top portion 954 of the pod can include the top portion 905 of the opening mechanism 200. Similarly, the bottom portion 952 of the pod can include the bottom portion of the opening mechanism 200. The first compartment 918 is defined by the opening mechanism 200 and a seal member 910. In some embodiments, the seal member 910 can be attached to an inner surface 964 of the opening mechanism 200. The opening mechanism 200 can include a puncture mechanism 908 that extends into the first compartment 918. The seal member 910 can seal (e.g., fluidly seal) the first compartment 918. A hinge 903 allows a user to depress a top portion 905 of the opening mechanism 200 so that the puncture mechanism 908 punctures the seal member 910. After the seal member 910 is punctured, the first compartment 918, the second compartment 914, and an inside 996 of the container 901 can be in fluid communication.
When the seal member 910 is punctured, contents 966 (e.g., any liquid or powder) of the first compartment 918 can be released from the first compartment 918 and fall into a second compartment 914 defined at least partially by the adapter 940. In some embodiments, the second compartment 914 can be further defined by a plate 960 that is connected to, or is otherwise integrated with an inner surface 970 of the adapter 940. In some embodiments, the second compartment 914 can be further defined by the seal member 910. In some embodiments, the second compartment 914 can be further defined by the top portion 920 of the container 901. At least some of the contents 966 of the first compartment 918 can fall onto a top surface 994 of the plate 960 and flow into a through-hole 972 defined by the plate 960 and the adapter 940. In some embodiments, the top surface 994 of the plate 960 can be curved to guide at least some of the contents 966 into the through-hole 972. In some embodiments, the plate 960 can be optional. If the plate 960 is omitted, the contents 966 can fall onto and spread along a top surface of the container 901 and flow into a through hole 976 in the container 901.
In some embodiments, the through-hole 972 in the plate 960 can be substantially aligned with the through-hole 976 in the top of the container 901 to facilitate in the combining of the contents 966 of the first compartment 918 with contents 968 (e.g., liquid or powder) of the container 901. A conduit 962 that is connected to, or is otherwise integrated with the plate 960 can be constructed and arranged to have a channel 974 that is aligned with the through-hole 976 in the container 901. In some embodiments, the channel 974 can be arranged to be in fluid communication with the inside 996 of the container 901. After flowing into the through-hole 972 in the plate 960, at least some of the contents 966 of the first compartment 918 can be guided by the conduit 962 to fall into and combine with the contents 968 of the container 901. In some embodiments, the through-hole 976 in the top of the container 901 can be formed by, for example, pulling a tab (e.g., 304 in FIG. 3 ) that is pivotably connected to the top of the container 901, wherein the tab is constructed and arranged to apply a force to a tongue (e.g., 306 in FIG. 3 ) in the top of the container 901 to facilitate defining the through hole 976.
In some embodiments, a volume of the first compartment 918, a volume of the second compartment 914 and a volume of the container 901 can be predetermined to prevent combined contents of the first compartment and the container 901 from overflowing beyond the container 901 and the second compartment 914. For example, in some embodiments, the volume of the second compartment 914 can be larger than the volume of the first compartment 918. In some embodiments, when the volume of the second compartment 914 is larger than the volume of the first compartment 918, the combined contents of the first compartment 918 and the container 901 can be contained by the container 901 and the adapter 940. In some embodiments, the second compartment 914 can be more than twice as large as the first compartment 918, or larger, so that the contents of multiple pods can be combined with the contents 968 of the container 901.
When the pod 930 is engaged with the adapter 940 and when the adapter 940 is engaged with the container 901, the first compartment 918, the second compartment 914, the inside 996 of the container 901, or a combination thereof are fluidly sealed by the container 901, the adapter 940, and the pod 930.
Referring to FIGS. 9D and 9E, the pod 930 is removed from the adapter 940 and the container 901. In some embodiments, the pod 930 can be removed from the adapter 940 by, for example, unscrewing the pod 930 so that the pod 930 is not in threaded communication with the adapter 940. When the pod 930 is not in threaded communication with the adapter 940, the combined contents of the first compartment 918 and the container 901 can be accessible through an opening 978 in the adapter 940. A user can drink the combined contents from a rim 980 of the adapter 940. After the pod 930 is removed, one or more additional pods 930 containing additional contents can be engaged with the top portion 944 of the adapter 940 to, for example, mix additional contents with the combined contents. The additional contents may be the same or different from contents 966 or contents 968.
Referring to FIGS. 9A-9C, at least the top portion 920 of the container 901 can be constructed to have any one of a plurality of predetermined sizes (e.g., predetermined diameters). The plurality of predetermined sizes can be a plurality of standardized sizes (e.g., standardized diameters). The bottom portion 942 of the adapter 940 can be constructed to have a size that corresponds to a predetermined size of the top portion 920 of the container 901. A plurality of adapters 940 can be included in the system in some embodiments, wherein the bottom portion 942 of each adapter 940 has a size that corresponds to a predetermined size of a top portion 920 of a respective container 901 of a plurality of containers 901.
FIG. 9F illustrates an embodiment of a multilayer drinking can system 900′ that includes a first adapter 940′ and a second adapter 940″. A bottom portion 942′ of the first adapter 940′ is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion 920′ of a first container 901′. A bottom portion 942″ of the second adapter 940″ is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion 920″ of a second container 901″ that is smaller than the top portion 920′ of the first container 901′. The bottom portion 942″ of the second adapter 940″ is smaller than the bottom portion 942′ of the first adapter 940′. The bottom portion 952 of the pod 930 is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion 944′ of the first adapter 940′ and a top portion 944″ of the second adapter 940″. In some embodiments, the top portion 944′ of the first adapter 940′ has the same size as the top portion 944″ of the second adapter 940″. In some embodiments, the multilayer drinking can system 900′ can include any suitable numbers of containers, adapters, and pods 930.
The following description of variants is only illustrative of components, elements, acts, products, and methods considered to be within the scope of the invention and are not in any way intended to limit such scope by what is specifically disclosed or not expressly set forth. The components, elements, acts, products, and methods as described herein may be combined and rearranged other than as expressly described herein and are still considered to be within the scope of the invention. According to variation 1, multilayer drinking can system including a container including a body and a top opposite a bottom, the container defining a primary compartment therein; a seal member disposed within the body such that the primary compartment includes a first compartment and a second compartment; wherein the top includes a tongue constructed and arranged to at least partially break away from the top to define a first through hole in fluid communication with the first compartment; a tab pivotably connected to the top constructed and arranged to apply force to the tongue to facilitate defining the first through hole; and a puncture mechanism attached to the tongue constructed and arranged to pass through a portion of the seal member to define a second through hole such that the first compartment and second compartment are in fluid communication.
Variation 2 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in variation 1 wherein the container is generally cylindrical.
Variation 3 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 2 wherein the container is transparent.
Variation 4 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 3 wherein the body is transparent.
Variation 5 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 4 wherein the puncture mechanism includes at least one of a spike, hook, rod, or cone.
Variation 6 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 5 wherein the puncture mechanism includes a plurality of puncture mechanisms.
Variation 7 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 6 wherein the first compartment is defined above the second compartment.
Variation 8 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 7 wherein the top defines a scored channel at least partially separating the tongue from the top.
Variation 9 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 8 wherein the first compartment includes a first content.
Variation 10 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 9 wherein the second compartment includes a second content.
Variation 11 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 10 wherein the multilayer drinking can system is constructed and arranged to simultaneously define the first through hole and the second through hole.
Variation 12 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 1 or 11 wherein the seal member includes metal.
According to variation 13, a multilayer drinking can system may include a generally cylindrical container including a body and a top opposite a bottom, the container defining a primary compartment therein; a seal member disposed within the body such that the primary compartment includes a first compartment above a second compartment; wherein the top includes a scored channel defining a tongue constructed and arranged to at least partially break away from the top to define a first through hole in fluid communication with the first compartment; a tab pivotably connected to the top constructed and arranged to apply force to the tongue to facilitate defining the first through hole; and a puncture mechanism including at least one of a spike, hook, rod, or cone attached to the tongue and being constructed and arranged to pass through a portion of the seal member to define a second through hole such that the first compartment and second compartment are in fluid communication.
Variation 14 may include multilayer drinking can system as in variation 13 wherein the body is transparent.
Variation 15 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 13 or 14 wherein the puncture mechanism includes a plurality of puncture mechanisms.
Variation 16 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 13 or 15 wherein the first compartment includes a first content.
Variation 17 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 13 or 16 wherein the second compartment includes a second content.
Variation 18 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 13 or 17 wherein the multilayer drinking can system is constructed and arranged to simultaneously define the first through hole and the second through hole.
Variation 19 may include a multilayer drinking can system as in any of variations 13 or 18 wherein the seal member includes a polymer.
According to variation 20, a multilayer drinking can system may include a generally cylindrical container including a transparent body and a top opposite a bottom, the container defining a primary compartment therein; a seal member disposed within the body such that the primary compartment includes a first compartment above a second compartment; wherein the top is constructed and arranged to at least partially break away from the body to define a first through hole in fluid communication with the first compartment; a tab pivotably connected to the top constructed and arranged to apply force to the top to facilitate defining the first through hole; and a puncture mechanism including at least one of a spike, hook, rod, or cone attached to the tongue and being constructed and arranged to pass through a portion of the seal member to define a second through hole such that the first compartment and second compartment are in fluid communication.
According to variation 21, a multilayer drinking can system can include: a first adapter having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the first adapter is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion of a first container so that the bottom portion of the first adapter is in fluidly sealed communication with the top portion of the first container; a pod that includes an opening mechanism having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion of the first adapter so that the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is in fluidly sealed communication with the top portion of the first adapter; wherein the pod further includes a seal member attached to an inner surface of the opening mechanism, wherein the seal member and the opening mechanism at least partially define a first compartment, wherein the seal member is constructed and arranged to fluidly seal the first compartment, and wherein the seal member and the first adapter at least partially define a second compartment; wherein the opening mechanism includes a puncture mechanism that is constructed and arranged to pass through a portion of the seal member to define a through hole such that the first compartment and second compartment are in fluid communication.
According to variation 22, a multilayer drinking can system can include: a first adapter having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the first adapter is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion of a first container; a pod that includes an opening mechanism having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion of the first adapter; wherein the pod further includes a seal member attached to an inner surface of the opening mechanism, wherein the seal member and the opening mechanism at least partially define a first compartment, wherein the seal member is constructed and arranged to fluidly seal the first compartment, and wherein the seal member and the first adapter at least partially define a second compartment; wherein the opening mechanism includes a puncture mechanism that is constructed and arranged to pass through a portion of the seal member to define a through hole such that the first compartment and second compartment are in fluid communication.
According to variation 23, a multilayer drinking can system can include: a first adapter having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the first adapter is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion of a first container so that the bottom portion of the first adapter is in fluidly sealed communication with the top portion of the first container; a pod that includes an opening mechanism having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion of the first adapter; wherein the pod further includes a seal member attached to an inner surface of the opening mechanism, wherein the seal member and the opening mechanism at least partially define a first compartment, wherein the seal member is constructed and arranged to fluidly seal the first compartment, and wherein the seal member and the first adapter at least partially define a second compartment; wherein the opening mechanism includes a puncture mechanism that is constructed and arranged to pass through a portion of the seal member to define a through hole such that the first compartment and second compartment are in fluid communication.
Variation 24 can include a multilayer drinking can system as in variation 21, 22 or 23, wherein the bottom portion of the first adapter is constructed and arranged to snap onto the top portion of the first container.
Variation 25 can include a multilayer drinking can system as in variation 21, 22 or 23, wherein the pod is removable from the first adapter.
Variation 26 can include a multilayer drinking can system as in variation 21, 22 or 23, wherein the first adapter is removable from the first container.
Variation 27 can include a multilayer drinking can system as in variation 21, 22 or 23, further comprising a second adapter having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the second adapter is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion of a second container, wherein the bottom portion of the second adapter is smaller than the bottom portion of the first adapter, and wherein the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is also constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion of the second adapter.
Variation 28 can include a multilayer drinking can system as in variation 21, 22 or 23, wherein the second compartment is larger than the first compartment.
Variation 29 can include a multilayer drinking can system as in variation 21, 22 or 23, further comprising: a plate that is attached to an inner surface of the first adapter, wherein the plate partially defines the second compartment; and a conduit connected to the plate and defining a channel that is arranged to be in fluid communication with the second compartment and an inside of the container.
Many different embodiments have been disclosed herein, in connection with the above description and the drawings. It will be understood that it would be unduly repetitious and obfuscating to describe and illustrate every combination and subcombination of these embodiments. Accordingly, all embodiments can be combined in any way and/or combination, and the present specification, including the drawings, shall be construed to constitute a complete written description of all combinations and subcombinations of the embodiments described herein, and of the manner and process of making and using them, and shall support claims to any such combination or subcombination.
An equivalent substitution of two or more elements can be made for any one of the elements in the claims below or that a single element can be substituted for two or more elements in a claim. Although elements can be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, it is to be expressly understood that one or more elements from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination and that the claimed combination can be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.
It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present embodiment is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. A variety of modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings without departing from the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A multilayer drinking can system, comprising:

a first adapter having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the first adapter is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion of a first container so that the bottom portion of the first adapter is in fluidly sealed communication with the top portion of the first container;

a pod that includes an opening mechanism having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion of the first adapter so that the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is in fluidly sealed communication with the top portion of the first adapter;

wherein the pod further includes a seal member attached to an inner surface of the opening mechanism, wherein the seal member and the opening mechanism at least partially define a first compartment, wherein the seal member is constructed and arranged to fluidly seal the first compartment, and wherein the seal member and the first adapter at least partially define a second compartment;

wherein the opening mechanism includes a puncture mechanism that is constructed and arranged to pass through a portion of the seal member to define a through hole such that the first compartment and second compartment are in fluid communication.

2. The multilayer drinking can system of claim 1, wherein the bottom portion of the first adapter is constructed and arranged to snap onto the top portion of the first container.

3. The multilayer drinking can system of claim 1, wherein the pod is removable from the first adapter.

4. The multilayer drinking can system as in claim 1, wherein the first adapter is removable from the first container.

5. The multilayer drinking can system of claim 1, further comprising a second adapter having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the second adapter is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion of a second container, wherein the bottom portion of the second adapter is smaller than the bottom portion of the first adapter, and wherein the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is also constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion of the second adapter.

6. The multilayer drinking can system as in claim 1, wherein the second compartment is larger than the first compartment.

7. The multilayer drinking can system as in claim 1, further comprising:

a plate that is attached to an inner surface of the first adapter, wherein the plate partially defines the second compartment; and

a conduit connected to the plate and defining a channel that is arranged to be in fluid communication with the second compartment and an inside of the container.

8. A multilayer drinking can system, comprising:

a first adapter having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the first adapter is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion of a first container;

a pod that includes an opening mechanism having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion of the first adapter;

9. The multilayer drinking can system of claim 8, wherein the bottom portion of the first adapter is constructed and arranged to snap onto the top portion of the first container.

10. The multilayer drinking can system of claim 8, wherein the pod is removable from the first adapter.

11. The multilayer drinking can system as in claim 8, wherein the first adapter is removable from the first container.

12. The multilayer drinking can system of claim 8, further comprising a second adapter having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the second adapter is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion of a second container, wherein the bottom portion of the second adapter is smaller than the bottom portion of the first adapter, and wherein the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is also constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion of the second adapter.

13. The multilayer drinking can system as in claim 8, wherein the second compartment is larger than the first compartment.

14. The multilayer drinking can system as in claim 8, further comprising:

15. A multilayer drinking can system, comprising:

16. The multilayer drinking can system of claim 15, wherein the bottom portion of the first adapter is constructed and arranged to snap onto the top portion of the first container.

17. The multilayer drinking can system of claim 15, wherein the pod is removable from the first adapter.

18. The multilayer drinking can system as in claim 15, wherein the first adapter is removable from the first container.

19. The multilayer drinking can system of claim 15, further comprising a second adapter having a top portion and a bottom portion, wherein the bottom portion of the second adapter is constructed and arranged to engage with a top portion of a second container, wherein the bottom portion of the second adapter is smaller than the bottom portion of the first adapter, and wherein the bottom portion of the opening mechanism is also constructed and arranged to engage with the top portion of the second adapter.

20. The multilayer drinking can system as in claim 15, wherein the second compartment is larger than the first compartment.

21. The multilayer drinking can system as in claim 15, further comprising: