US20180000269A1

US20180000269A1 - Straw, tube, cap, clamp, connector and adaptor with aeration and premixed-liquidation features

Info

Publication number: US20180000269A1
Application number: US15/198,752
Authority: US
Inventors: Rafael I. San Miguel; Nicolás R. San Miguel
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-06-30
Filing date: 2016-06-30
Publication date: 2018-01-04

Abstract

Drinking straws, tubes, caps, clamps, connectors and adaptors are provided in the form of a cylindrical member having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the cylindrical member is provided with at least one hole having a diameter of between 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) and wherein the hole is disposed a distance of between about halfway of any lengths and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the top portion of the first hollow cylindrical member.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to straws, tubes, caps, clamps, connectors and adaptors, and more particularly, to straws having an aeration and premixed-liquidation features to improve the overall taste of a beverage.

BACKGROUND

Disposable straws have been widely used for years to consume a wide variety of beverages. Disposable straws facilitate the drinking of a beverage by acting as a conduit for the liquids to flow through the tubular segment and into the mouth. This promotes hygiene by allowing the consumer to drink the beverage without having to touch the container with his or her mouth. Disposable straws also allow users to consume beverages while closed with a lid, resulting in less possibility of spills and messes.
As with all disposable products, it is extremely important that plastic and paper disposable straws be cost effective. The cost per unit for a straw is often less than a penny, thus making it of little economic consequence to the user and/or provider and therefore making economically feasible to use as a disposable item.
Modifications have been made to disposable straws such as diameter changes to allow for thicker liquids to pass through unhindered. Other small changes have included bendable necks, or corrugated joints, (e.g. U-straws, Z-straws, etc.) to allow for the top portion of the straw to bend. The bendable neck allows the consumer to drink the beverage at a variety of angles. It also permits longer straws to be packaged in a more compact manner.
Perforated straws that prevent the passage of solids are also known. The perforated straw has a tubular body, which is sealed at one end. It has perforations in the body near the lower sealed end thereof. These perforations allow for fluid to pass into and through the straw while preventing the passage of solids present in the beverage. The size and configuration of the perforations determines which, if any, solids pass through the straw and which remain within the container.
Aerating straws are also known. U.S. Pat. No. 2,943,794 (Sussman, Jul. 5, 1960) discloses a straw provided at one and with a plurality of apertures. The apertures are adjacent to the end of the straw which is taken into the mouth but are spaced from the end of the straw so that the apertures will not be covered by the lips when the straw is in use so that air can pass through to mingle with or be mixed in the liquid passing through the straw. The object of the Sussman invention is to provide for the introduction of air into the liquid being imbibed and accordingly improve or add to the palatability and flavor of the liquid. Sussman provides that optimum aeration is accomplished by a uniform staggered distribution of from 2 to 15 holes within that part of the straw above mentioned. Preferred spacing between the holes is from 0.035 inch (or 0.889 mm) to 0.002 inch (0.0508 mm) and hole size may range from 0.035 inch (0.889 mm) down to 0.001 inch (0.0254 mm).
The Sussman straw has the disadvantage that it uses 2-15 holes. Specifically, the preferred embodiment is a straw with two holes each being 0.010″ (0.254 mm) in diameter. That construction would produce too much air or too many large bubbles in non-carbonated beverages. Too much air results in the ratio of air to liquid being too large which in turn results in burping and gastrointestinal bloating/gassing effects. With beverages, multiple big-holes that are very close one to another around the straw will cause several air bubbles to merge into a much larger air bubble prior to entering the drinker's mouth, yielding an unpleasant drinking experience.
There is a need for a straw, tube, cap, connector, clamp and adaptor that effectively and optimally performs the optimized air/liquid flow mixture; enhances the organoleptic experience of the user reliably and that enables the introduction of flavors (odors and liquids) and/or the introduction of texture (air) as bubbles into the mouth of a drinker from an aerated/pre-liquid-mixed beverages; eliminates the need of carbon dioxide or carbonation for our beverages to preserve our Earth's atmosphere; and further removes any non-flavor, off-tastes of carbon dioxide in carbonated beverages to further enhance a positive organoleptic experience.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments a straw assembly comprises a first hollow cylindrical member having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the first hollow cylindrical member is provided with a first hole having a diameter of between 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) and wherein the first hole is disposed a distance no greater than the distance to the liquid.
In another embodiment a straw assembly for consuming a liquid comprises a first hollow cylindrical member having a first outer diameter; a second hollow cylindrical member having an internal diameter substantially equal to the first outer diameter; a hole having a diameter of between 0.394″ (10.0 mm) and 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) and wherein the hole is disposed a distance of between about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) and less than the distance to the liquid.
In another embodiment a device is disclosed comprising a cylindrical member having an internal diameter substantially adapted to engage a drinking straw; a hole having a diameter of between 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) and wherein the hole is disposed a distance of between about 8.00″ (204 mm) and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the top portion of the first hollow cylindrical member.
In another embodiment a straw assembly is disclosed having a first cylindrical portion and a second cylindrical portion joined by a constricted cylindrical portion having a hole perforating the wall of the constricted cylindrical portion.
In another embodiment a bottlecap is disclosed comprising a cylindrical member disposed with an inside of a second cylindrical member. The cylindrical member is provided with a hole having a diameter of between about 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and about 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) and is disposed a distance of between any greater lengths and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the end (partial shown) of the cylindrical member.
In another embodiment a flavor enhancement straw is disclosed. The flavor enhancement straw comprises cylindrical member having in annular cartridge. The annular cartridge is disposed a distance of between about halfway of any straw/tube/cap/connector/adaptor lengths or about 6″ (152 mm) or wherever locates right above the product solution and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the top end of the flavor enhancement straw. The cylindrical member is provided with a hole. The annular cartridge is also provided with a second hole that allows air to pass through the annular cartridge and through the hole in the cylindrical member.
In another embodiment a Venturi straw is provided having a first cylindrical portion, a second cylindrical portion and a constricted cylindrical portion with a hole 59. The constricted cylindrical portion may be covered by a cylindrical cover that is provided with a bigger hole thereby creating a pocket between the constricted cylindrical portion and the cylindrical cover. The pocket may be filled with a flavoring/aromatic compound that can be drawn into the interior of the Venturi straw 51 as liquid or aroma.
In another embodiment a flavor enhancement straw comprises a cylindrical member having a connector connecting the cylindrical member with a flavor delivery device comprising a lid and a vial. The cylindrical member is provided with a hole. The flavor enhancement straw is provided with a connecting conduit that allows flavored air to pass through the vial and through the hole in the cylindrical member.
In another embodiment a straw assembly is provided and comprises a first hollow cylindrical member disposed inside of a second hollow cylindrical member. The second hollow cylindrical member is provided with a hole having a diameter of between about 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and about 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) that is disposed a distance of between about 8.00″ (204 mm) and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the end of the second hollow cylindrical member.
In another embodiment a Venturi device comprising a hollow cylindrical member having a bottom end and a top end. The hollow cylindrical member has a first internally tapered opening that is adapted to engage an end of a drinking straw. The hollow cylindrical member is provided with a second section opening in a second section of the hollow cylindrical member. The hollow cylindrical member is provided with a third section opening that is tapered, a fourth section opening that is substantially cylindrical, a fifth section opening that is outwardly tapered and a sixth section opening that is substantially cylindrical. The hollow cylindrical member is provided with a hole having a diameter of between about 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and about 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm).
In another embodiment a turbulence inducing straw is provided comprising a straw body that is provided with at least one hole located in the middle of the straw body. The straw includes varied diameter size rows that are disposed after the hole.
In another embodiment a turbulence inducing straw comprises a straw body that is provided with a flow mixer (spinning) attachment disposed distally from the hole.
In another embodiment a turbulence inducing straw comprises irregular flexible portion along the straw disposed distally from a hole toward its end.
In another embodiment a premix filter/inlet filter adaptor is provided comprising a cylindrical assembly provided with at least one hole located in the middle of the length of the cylindrical assembly but above a sample solution. A pre-filter portion is attached to the hole.
In another embodiment an adaptor is disclosed that allows two straws without a hole to be connected. The adaptor is disposed with a hole and smaller cylindrical portions at its ends that allow straws to slide into them. Inside the adapter a pre-filter material may be disposed.
In another embodiment an electronic device that automatically controls the delivery of air or flavor is disclosed. The electronic device includes a housing that may be attached to a hole on a straw allowing air, flavored air, gases flavors or liquids to be delivered from the electronic device through the hole to the straw.
In another embodiment a clamp is disclosed adapted to be placed on the straw. The clamp is provided with a cylindrical body and a protrusion designed to penetrate and puncture the straw. The protrusion has a hole through which air may pass.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and/or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although designs and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary drawings and/or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Some embodiments of the invention are herein described by way of example only, with reference to the accompany drawings. With specific reference now to the drawing in detail, it is stressed that the particular shown by way of example and for purpose of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerating drinking straw;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of an aerating drinking straw;

FIG. 3 is a side view of a portion of an aerating drinking straw;

FIG. 4 is a side view of a Venturi-type aerating drinking straw;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an aerating drinking bottle cap;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an aerating drinking bottle cap;

FIG. 7 is a side view of an embodiment of pull up and push down aerating drinking bottle cap;

FIG. 8 is a side view of a Venturi-type aerating drinking straw;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a Venturi type aerating drinking straw;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a flavor enhancing straw;

FIG. 11 is a side view of a flavor enhancing aerating drinking straw/tube adaptor;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a flavor enhancing aerating drinking straw/tube adaptor;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a turbulence inducing drinking straw/tube;

FIG. 14 is a different perspective view of turbulence inducing straw and tube;

FIG. 15 is a different perspective view of turbulence inducing straw and tube;

FIG. 16 is a perspective side view of pre-mixed filter/inlet filter adaptor;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of apportion of pre-mixed filter/inlet filter adaptor;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a premix inlet adapter connector with a filter;

FIG. 19 cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a system for electronically controlling air/liquid flow into a straw/tube;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a system for electronically controlling air/liquid flow into a straw/tube;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a system for mechanically controlling air/liquid flow into a straw/tube; and

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a straw/tube clamp for introducing airflow into a straw/tube.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Smell, taste and texture-feeling are important and key aspects of the organoleptic experience. Smell takes place via two pathways, one is through the nostrils (orthonasally), and the other is up through the throat (retronasally). The sensation of smell depends on the concentration and type of aroma compounds available to the olfactory receptors. A single odor compound is typically recognized by multiple receptors, and different odor compounds are recognized by combinations or patterns of receptors. The patterns of neuron signals travel to the brain and occur within the brain characterizing the identity of the smell. The olfactory system does not interpret a single compound, but instead the whole odorous mix, not necessarily corresponding to concentration or intensity of any single constituent.
Taste is the sensation produced when a substance in the mouth bonds to taste receptor cells located on taste buds in the oral cavity, mostly on the tongue. Taste, along with smell (olfaction) and trigeminal nerve stimulation (registering texture, pain, and temperature), optimally determines flavors of beverage or other substances and greatly enhances positive organoleptic experience.
Straw.
One way of enhancing the organoleptic experience is to increase the concentration of aroma (and liquid) compounds exposed to the various olfactory receptors on top of liquid sample exposed to the various taste receptors (basic taste, tactile and thermal senses, etc.). Another way of enhancing the organoleptic experience is to introduce the physical bubbles touching inside various mouth receptors (taste) and nerve senses (tactile, thermal senses, etc.). Illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 is a straw 11 designed to increase the concentration of beverage aroma compounds exposed to the various olfactory receptors and of bubbles exposed to the tongue and mouth for better mouthfeel (texture) experience. The straw 11 can be modified into any forms of shapes, such as oval, triangular, rectangular, etc. and may be made of paper, glass, rubber, metal, ceramic, carbon fiber or plastic and also may be made of straight or flexible tube and its commercial straw size is ranging from about ¾″ (19.1 mm) to about 1/64″ (0.396 mm). The straw 11 is provided with a single hole 13 having an optimum size. The hole 13 is preferably of a diameter D that is between about 0.00476″ (0.121 mm) and about 0.00634″ (0.161 mm). It has been found that straws with a hole having a diameter smaller than about 0.00476″ (0.121 mm) do not draw enough air in a normal straw drinking power of 3/16″ and 5/16″ straws to suction/increase the concentration of aroma compounds exposed to the various olfactory receptors and of bubbles exposed to the tongue and mouth for better mouthfeel (texture) experience. Similarly a straw with a hole having a diameter greater than about 0.00634″ (0.161 mm) produces too many aerated bubbles and their bubble volume to the point where the imbalanced sensorial experience of bubbling, smell and taste responses will occur or can be observed (unpleasant; uncomfortable; dislike; swallowing air, gastrointestinal bloat and gassing, etc.).
The total area of the hole(s) 13 in the straw should not exceed about 0.0000316 inch²(0.0204 mm²) because a larger area results in a huge number and total volume of bubbles, larger than normal bubbling parameters found in carbonated beverages and leads to unbalanced air/sample ratios going into the mouth that are not acceptable to the typical drinkers.
The hole 13 is disposed a distance L of between about halfway of any straw/tube/connector/adaptor lengths or about 5″ (127 mm) or between a location right above the product solution and a location of about 0.250″ (6.35 mm) from the top end of the straw 11 (the end closest to the mouth). It has been found that a straw with a hole disposed distance lower than L1 suffers from the disadvantage of less flavor exchanging/contacting time between the bubbles and the flavored sample solution. And the mouth will cover the hole making its benefit practically ineffective. More bubble/flavor exposure time is the key to transfer any flavors from the sample solution into bubble gas before reaching to the mouth. Similarly a hole that is disposed distance greater than L1 suffers from the disadvantage of hole location in the sample solution instead of above the sample solution.
It has been found that a straw having a hole with a diameter of between about 0.00476″ (0.121 mm) and about 0.00634″ (0.161 mm disposed a distance of farther end of L1 range from the top of the straw 11 has an unexpected positive effect on texture (bubbling) and flavor (odor) perception on top of non-flavored taste quality (sweet, salt, umami, sour, bitter) perception of the consumer beverage.
Venturi Straw/Tube.
Illustrated in FIG. 4 is a Venturi straw 15 having a first cylindrical portion 17 and a second cylindrical portion 19 joined by a constricted cylindrical portion 21 having a hole 23 perforating the wall of the constricted cylindrical portion 21. The hole 23 is preferably of a diameter D that is between about 0.00634″ (0.161 mm) and about 0.0005″ (0.0.127 mm). The hole 23 is preferably located a distance L2 of between about halfway of any straw/tube/connector/adaptor lengths or about 5″ (127 mm) or between a location right above the product solution and about 0.250″ (6.35 mm) from the top end 25 of the Venturi straw 15. The constricted cylindrical portion 21 creates a Venturi effect which results in a reduction in fluid pressure (more suction power) at the hole 23 thereby drawing more air to aerate the liquid being consumed. The internal diameter of the constricted cylindrical portion 21 may range from 0.750″ (10.1 mm) to 0.0156″ (0.396 mm) and the main cylindrical portion may range from 2.00″ (50.8 mm) to 0.197″ (0.500 mm). Preferred diameter reduction and expansion between the two main cylindrical portion sizes and the constricted cylindrical portion size is approximately 37.8% less and more but can range from 1% to 99%. The preferred cylindrical slope portion length, R, should be approximately 44.0% more than the constricted cylindrical portion internal diameter size but can range 1-100+% more or if less than diameter sizes then range from 0 to 0.750″ (19.1 mm) length. The length of constricted cylindrical portion, S, may range at least 0.0394″ (1.00 mm). Also, it is possible to use any hole(s) 23 anywhere on either sides of the two cylindrical slope portions, 24.
Bottle Cap.
Illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 is a bottle cap 26 designed similar to aerating straw/tube technology shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 but in bottle cap to increase the concentration of beverage aroma compounds exposed to the various olfactory receptors and of bubbles exposed to the tongue and mouth for better mouthfeel (texture) and organoleptic experience out of the bottles/cups/containers. And it allows drinking the container upside down with no hole interference. The bottle cap 26 comprises a cylindrical member 29 disposed inside of a second cylindrical member 27. The cylindrical member 29 on the bottom area is provided with at least one hole 30 having a diameter D of between about 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and about 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) and is disposed a distance of between any greater lengths and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the end (partial shown on the top area) of the cylindrical member 29. A plate 31 is provided to act like a lip or mouth blocker, if the cylindrical member 29 length is short, the plate 31 is disposed between the hole 13 and the top end of cylindrical member 29.
FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a bottle cap 40 having a cylindrical member 41 including a neck 42 that is taller, and a second cylindrical portion 43 fitting inside neck 42 that can be moved up and down acting as an opening and closing cap. The second cylindrical portion 43 is disposed with at least one hole 44. The cylindrical member 41 and the second cylindrical portion 43 can be modified into any form of shapes, such as oval, triangular, rectangle, etc. and made of paper, glass, plastic, rubber, carbon-fiber, metal or ceramic, and also may be made of straight or flexible tube.
Flavor Enhancement Straw.
Illustrated in FIG. 8 is a flavor enhancement straw 45 comprising a cylindrical member 46 having an annular cartridge 47. The annular cartridge 47 is disposed a distance of between about halfway of any straw/tube/cap/connector/adaptor lengths or about 5″ (127 mm) or between a location right above the product solution and a location about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the top end of the flavor enhancement straw 45. This cylindrical member 46 may be provided with a hole (not shown) similar to the hole 13 in the straw 12 of FIG. 1. The annular cartridge 47 may be provided with a hole 49 that allows air to pass through the annular cartridge 47 and through the hole in the cylindrical member 46. In an alternate embodiment, the annular cartridge 47 may be made of a semi permeable material that allows the passage of air through the annular cartridge 47. In operation, the annular cartridge 47 may be filled with a flavoring compound so that the flavoring compound is drawn into the liquid being consumed through the hole in the cylindrical member 46. The annular cartridge 47 can be used in any other and/or varied shapes, such as boxy, other than the annular shape, and can made of thin, flexible rubber or plastic or other film that can shrink to the top of side of cylindrical member 46 during drinking. The hole 49 can be thinly sealed on either sides of outside and inside annular cartridge walls, which can be easily broken by the suction power of drinking, and same thing on the hole (not shown) similar to the hole 13 and the straw 11 of FIG. 1.
Venturi Straw.
FIG. 9 illustrates an alternate embodiment of a Venturi straw 51 having a first cylindrical portion 53, a second cylindrical portion 55 and a constricted cylindrical portion 57 with at least one hole 59. The at least one hole 59 is preferably of a diameter D that is between about 0.00634″ (0.161 mm) and about 0.0005″ (0.00127 mm). The at least one hole 59 is preferably located a distance L3 between about halfway of any straw/tube/adaptor lengths or about 5″ (127 mm) or between a location right above the product solution and a location about 0.250″ (6.35 mm) from the top end of the straw 61. The constricted cylindrical portion 57 may be covered by a cylindrical cover 63 that is provided with a bigger hole 65 thereby creating a pocket 67 between the constricted cylindrical portion 57 and the cylindrical cover 63. The pocket 67 may be filled with a flavoring compound with and without spongy-like materials that can be drawn into the interior of the Venturi straw 51 as liquid or aroma is being drawn through the Venturi straw 51, similar to an ink jet cartridge. The at least one hole 59 can be thinly sealed on either sides of constricted cylindrical portion 57 which can be easily broken by the suction power of drinking and same thing on the bigger hole 65 on either side of cylindrical cover 63. The cylindrical cover 63 can contain no hole and made of thin, flexible rubber or plastic or other film that can shrink to the top of side of constricted cylindrical portion 57 during normal drinking shelf-life.
Flavor Enhancement Straw.
FIG. 10 is another flavor enhancement straw 71 comprising a cylindrical member 73 having a tee-connector 74 connecting the cylindrical member 73 with an flavor delivery device 72 comprising a lid 75 and a vial 76. The tee-connector 74 is disposed a distance of between about halfway of cylindrical member 73 or about 6″ (152 mm) or between a location right above the product solution and a location about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the top end of the cylindrical member 73. Preferred distance is the farthest away from the top end of the cylindrical member 41 if possible. This cylindrical member 73 may be provided with at least one hole (not shown) similar to the hole 13 and the straw 11 of FIG. 1. The flavor enhancement straw 71 may be provided with a connecting conduit 77 that allows flavored air to pass through the vial 76 and through the hole in the cylindrical member 73. In an alternate embodiment, vial 76 may be filled with flavor solution attached to the lid 75 that is provided with a capillary tube 81 having an internal diameter 83 of approximately the size of hole 13 in FIG. 1 running from the top of the lid 75 to the bottom of vial 76. In operation air passes through the capillary tube 81 into the flavor compound(s) resulting bubbling into the vapor space above the flavor solution inside the vial 76 and going into a connecting conduit 77 from the vial 76 into the flavor enhancement straw 71. In operation, the vial 76 may be filled with a flavoring compound so that the flavoring compound is drawn into the liquid being consumed through the hole in the cylindrical member 73. The flavor delivery device 72 can be used in any other shapes, such as parallel, perpendicular or separated assembly, etc. to the cylindrical member 73, and can be multiply in order to provide more than one flavor compound into the cylindrical member 73.
Illustrated in FIG. 11 is a straw assembly 85 comprising a first hollow cylindrical member 87 disposed inside of a second hollow cylindrical member 89. The second hollow cylindrical member 89 is provided with at least one hole 99 having a diameter D of between about 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and about 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) that is disposed a distance of between about 8.00″ (204 mm) and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the end 91 of the second hollow cylindrical member 89. The straw assembly 85 can be modified into any form of shapes, such as oval, triangular, rectangle, etc., be made of paper, glass, plastic, rubber, carbon-fiber, metal or ceramic, and also may be made of straight or flexible tube.
Venturi Device.
Illustrated in FIG. 12 is an alternate embodiment of cylindrical member 100, which is similar to second hollow cylindrical member 89 in FIG. 11, comprising a hollow cylindrical member 103 having a bottom end 101 and a top end 102. The hollow cylindrical member 103 has a first internally tapered opening 105 that is adapted to engage an end of drinking straws of different diameter. The hollow cylindrical member 103 is provided with a second section opening 107 in a second section of the hollow cylindrical member 103. The hollow cylindrical member 103 is provided with a third section opening 109 that is tapered, a fourth section opening 111 that is substantially cylindrical, a fifth section opening 113 that is outwardly tapered and a sixth section opening 115 is substantially cylindrical. The hollow cylindrical member 103 is provided with at least one hole 116 having a diameter of between about 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and about 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) that is disposed a distance of between about 8.00″ (204 mm) and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the top end 102 of the hollow cylindrical member 103. The width of the hollow cylindrical member 103 can range from about 12.0″ (305 mm) to about 0.393″ (1.00 mm). The hollow cylindrical member 103 can be shaped into any forms of shapes, such as a box like a microprocessor box with in and out lines. The third section opening 109 can internally shape like “V” from the fourth section opening 111 to the bottom end 101, allowing any straw/tube diameter sizes to fit-in. The internal cylindrical shapes of the cylindrical member 100 can be modified to any other and irregular shapes, such as cross, rectangle, triangle, diamond, oval, etc., may be made of straight or flexible tube, and made of plastic, metal, rubber, glass, carbon-fiber, ceramic, etc. The at least one hole 116 can be partially modified (a first-half length of at least one hole 116 from outside to inside the hollow cylindrical member 103 can be modified to a bigger hole size) to act as a plug-in hole for any air, flavor, gas, smoking and drug delivery devices that may be plugged in or attached.
Turbulence Inducing or Pre-Mixer Straw/Tube.
Another way of enhancing the organoleptic experience is to increase the flavor/gas exchange rate and provide more exposure time between bubbles and the flavor solution prior to reaching the mouth. Illustrated in FIGS. 13, 14 and 15 are a turbulence-inducing straws (straw 121 In FIG. 13, straw 141 in FIG. 14 and straw 161 in FIG. 15) designed to increase the air exposure of beverage aroma compounds and its time with the liquid. The straw 121 of FIG. 13 may comprise a straw body 127 that is provided with at least one hole 131 located in the middle of the straw body 127. The straw 121 may comprise varied diameter size rows 123 and 125 that are disposed after the at least one hole 131. In FIG. 14 the straw 141, may comprise a straw body 143 that may be provided with a flow mixer (non-spinning or spinning) attachment 145 disposed distally from the hole 149. In FIG. 15 the straw 161 may comprise irregular flexible portion 163 along the straw 161 disposed distally from the hole 131 toward its end, that is disposed a distance of between about 36.0″ (915 mm) and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the end of the straw 161. The straw 121, straw 141 and straw 161 may be modified to any other and irregular shapes, such as cross, rectangle, triangle, diamond, oval, etc., may be made of straight or flexible tube, and made of plastic, metal, rubber, glass, carbon-fiber, ceramic, etc.
Pre-Mixed Filter/Inlet Filter Adaptor/Connector.
Illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17 is a pre-mixed filter assembly 171 designed to produce a larger volume of smaller bubbles. A cylindrical assembly 173 is provided with a single hole 175 (or multiple holes) located in the middle of the length of the cylindrical assembly 173 but above the sample solution. A pre-filter portion 177 either can be externally attached, fitted or internally attached to the single hole 175. The pre-filter portion 177 may be made of metallic stone, fine to coarse air stone or fibers or any related fine or coarse materials. The cylindrical assembly 173 can be modified to include any other and irregular shapes, such as cross, rectangle, triangle, diamond, oval, etc., may be made of straight or flexible tube, and made of plastic, metal, rubber, glass, carbon-fiber, ceramic, etc.
Illustrated in FIG. 18 straw assembly 181 having a pre-filter or pre-mixed adaptor/connector 182 that allows either two straws 183 and 184 without a hole 13 to be connected. The pre-mixed adaptor/connector 182 is disposed with at least one hole 187 and smaller cylindrical portions at its both ends 188 and 189 that allow straws to slide into them. Inside the pre-mixed adaptor/connector 182 a pre-filter or air stone/metal material 190 may be disposed. The at least one hole 187 is preferably of a diameter that is between about 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and about 0.0005″ (0.00127 mm). The at least one hole 187 is preferably located a distance of between about halfway of any length of the pre-mixed adaptor/connector 182 or about 5″ (127 mm) or between a location right above the product solution and a location about 0.250″ (6.35 mm) from the top end of the pre-mixed adaptor/connector 182.
Illustrated in FIG. 19 is an electronic device 191 that automatically controls the delivery of air or flavor. The electronic device 191 may include a housing 193. The electronic device 191 may be similar to an ‘e-cigarette-and may be attached to a straw 195. The housing 193 may be disposed to cover at least one hole 197 of the straw 195 that allows air, flavored air, any gasses, any flavor liquids, any alcoholic solution/liquors and any therapeutic drugs to be delivered from the electronic device 191 to the straw 195. Common ‘e-cigarette-like’ components include an aerosol generator or pump, a controlled liquid delivery component, a microprocessor 203, a flow sensor (not shown), a battery 205 and a flavor/drug/gas-containing solution storage area 199. The electronic device 191 also, includes many interchangeable parts, enabling users to modify the character of the delivered aerosol and, therefore, the product's ‘effectiveness’ as an organoleptic enhancement delivery product. Materials in electronic device 191 may include metals, rubber, plastic, glass, carbon fiber and ceramics. The electronic device 191 is disposed a distance of between about 36.0″ (915 mm) and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the end of the straw 195. The electronic device 191 also has inlet air hole 196, which is bigger than the at least one hole 197 to allow air to go through electronic device 191. The air/liquid pump can be incorporated into the straw or performs electronically and mechanically to deliver air/liquid into the straw via the at least one hole 197.
Illustrated in FIG. 20 is an alternate embodiment of electronic device 211 that automatically turns on and off and controls the delivery of air or flavor. The electronic device 211 may include a housing 215. The electronic device 211 may be similar to an ‘e-cigarette-and may be attached to a straw 213. The housing 215 may attach to at least one hole 221 of a straw 213 allowing air, flavored air, any gasses, any flavor liquids, any alcoholic solution/liquors and any therapeutic drugs to be delivered from the electronic device 211 to the straw 213. Common ‘e-cigarette-like’ components include an aerosol generator or pump, a controlled liquid delivery component, a microprocessor 223, a flow sensor 229, and LED indicator 227, a battery 225 and a flavor/drug/gas-containing solution storage area 219 and an air inlet 217 (having a bigger hole size than the at least one hole 221 of the straw 213). The electronic device 211 also, includes many interchangeable parts, enabling users to modify the character of the delivered aerosol and, therefore, the product's ‘effectiveness’ as an organoleptic enhancement delivery product. Materials in electronic device 211 may include metals, rubber, plastic, glass, carbon fiber and ceramics. The electronic device 191 is disposed a distance of between about 36.0″ (915 mm) and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the end of the straw 195. The air/liquid pump can be incorporated into the straw and performs electronically or mechanically to deliver air/liquid into the straw via the at least one hole 221 (or a multi-holes). The flow sensor 229 can be detected the incoming straw liquid and activate to open the at least one hole 221 (or a multi-holes).
Mechanical Process/Design of Controlling Airflow.
Significant more compact design of delivery device 241 (that is ‘dial and spray hose-end sprayer-like’) is illustrated in FIG. 21. The delivery device 241 is disposed into a cylindrical member 243 via a hole 251. Common ‘dial-and-spray hose-end sprayer’ components include a housing 245, a hole 247, rotary dial 253, a flow rate controller 254, a capillary tube 249 from the hole 251 to the bottom of housing 245, a vial holder (cap; not shown) and an solution storage area 257. Also, the rotary dial 253 includes various liquid flow rates, enabling users to modify the character of the delivered liquid and, therefore, the product's ‘effectiveness’ as an organoleptic enhancement delivery product. Materials in delivery device 241 may include metals, rubber, plastic, glass, carbon fiber and ceramics. The delivery device 241 is disposed a distance of between about 36.0″ (915 mm) and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the end of the cylindrical member 243. The air/liquid pump can be incorporated into the straw and performs mechanically to deliver air/liquid into the straw via the hole 251 (or a multi-holes).
Clamp.
FIG. 22 illustrates a clamp 261 adapted to be placed around a straw 263 that is provided with a cylindrical body 265 and protrusion 267 designed to penetrate and puncture the straw 263. The protrusion 267 has a hole 269 through which air or liquid may pass. The clamp 261 can be reused with other straws/tubes and can act as a connector between the straw 263 and the content delivery devices described above. The clamp 261 is designed to attach to straw 263 which may be of any size. The protrusion 267 can made of metal, plastic, ceramic, carbon fiber, glass and any other sturdy materials and is disposed a length of between 3.00″ (76.2 mm) and 0.001″ (0.0254 mm) and can contain a syringe-like shape at one end of puncture tube going into the straw 263. The clamp 261 may be of any other and irregular shapes, such as cross, rectangle, triangle, diamond, oval, etc., may be made of straight or flexible tube, and made of plastic, metal, rubber, glass, carbon-fiber, ceramic, etc.
In one embodiment of present invention, air/liquid pump can be incorporated into the straw and performs electronically and mechanically.
In one embodiment of the present invention, a fine mesh material, such as tea or coffee metal steeper/filter, can be incorporated into the straw (as a hole cover or a pre-filter part or a short tube connector/adaptor or a Venturi tube part).
It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.
Various embodiments and aspects of the present invention as delineated hereinabove and as claimed in the claims section below find experimental support in the following examples.
Tests. The embodiment of FIG. 1 has been tested with various beverages as set out below.

Example 1

Drinking the commercial, regular cola soda with a plain straw is a control straw sample. Drinking the same soda with the same straw, but with a hole in it at a size of approx. 0.15 mm, is the experiment straw sample. This soda at 4° C. was freshly opened and poured into two cups and evaluated for the overall tasting experience quality. There was no flavor difference between these two straws.

Example 2

Drinking the commercial, regular cola soda with the plain straw is the control straw sample. Drinking the same soda with the straw with a hole in it at a size of approx. 0.15 mm is the experiment straw sample. This soda at 4° C. was opened and poured into two cups and wait for about at least 15 minutes to allow any excessive carbonation to evaporate and evaluated for the overall tasting experience quality. The more flavor enhancement effect was found in the straw with a hole in it.

Example 3

Drinking the commercial, regular cola soda with the plain straw is the control straw sample. Drinking the same soda with the straw with a hole in it at a size of approx. 0.15 mm is the experiment straw sample. This soda at 4° C., which is completely decarbonated by opening the container overnight or by sonification, was opened and poured into two cups. Four trained panelist members tested for the overall tasting experience quality. The more flavor and bubbling enhancement effects was were found by 4 out of four trained panelists in the straw with a hole in it.

Example 4

Drinking the commercial, uncarbonated fruit punch drink with the plain straw is the control straw sample. Drinking the same drink with the straw with a hole in it at a size of averaged 0.141 mm is the experiment #1 straw sample. They were randomly different order of straw samples for panelists. This fruit punch drink at room temperature in a porch package was used with two straws in it. 20 untrained panelist members aged between 11 and 77 years old tested for the better overall tasting experience quality. The better overall tasting experience effect was found in the experiment #1 straw with one hole in it by 19 out of 20 untrained panelists.

Example 5

Drinking the commercial, uncarbonated fruit punch drink with the one-hole plastic straw at a size of approx. 0.25 mm is the experiment #1 straw sample. Drinking the same soda with the straw with two-holes in it at a size of approx. 0.25 mm each is the experiment #2 straw sample. They were randomly different order of straw samples for panelists. This fruit punch drink at room temperature in a porch package was used with two straws in it. 20 untrained panelist members aged between 11 and 77 years old tested for the better overall tasting experience quality. The better overall tasting experience effect was found in the experiment #1 straw with one hole in it by 17 out of 20 untrained panelists.

Example 6

Drinking the commercial bottled water with the one-hole plastic straw at a size of averaged 0.141 mm is the control experiment #1 straw sample. Drinking the same drink with the straw with a hole in it at a size of averaged 0.141 mm and with a tube connection to the flavor (bubble gum) ingredient chamber/bottle is the experiment #3 straw sample. They were randomly different order of straw samples for panelists. This water at room temperature in plastic bottle was used with the straw in each. Five untrained and one trained panelist members aged between 11 and 77 years old tested for the better overall flavor tasting experience quality. The better overall flavor tasting experience effect was found in the experiment #3 straw with one hole in it by six out of 6 panelists.

Example 7

Drinking the commercial bottled water with the one-hole plastic straw at a size of averaged 0.141 mm is the control experiment #1 straw sample. Drinking the same drink with the straw with a hole in it at a size of averaged 0.141 mm and with a tube connection to the flavor (rose oil) ingredient chamber/bottle is the experiment #3 straw sample. They were randomly different order of straw samples for panelists. This water at room temperature in a plastic bottle was used with the straw in each. Five untrained and one trained panelist members aged between 11 and 77 years old tested for the better overall flavor tasting experience quality. The better overall flavor tasting experience effect was found in the experiment #3 straw with one hole in it by six out of 6 panelists.

Example 8

Drinking the commercial bottled water with the one-hole plastic straw at a size of averaged 0.141 mm is the control experiment #1 straw sample. Drinking the same drink with the straw with a hole in it at a size of averaged 0.141 mm and with a tube connection to the flavor (peppermint oil) ingredient chamber/bottle is the experiment #3 straw sample. They were randomly different order of straw samples for panelists. This water at room temperature in a plastic bottle was used with the straw in each. Five untrained and one trained panelist members aged between 11 and 77 years old tested for the better overall flavor tasting experience quality. The better overall flavor tasting experience effect was found in the experiment #3 straw with one hole in it by six out of 6 panelists.
For the purposes of describing and defining the present teachings, it is noted that the terms “substantially” and “approximately” are utilized herein to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that may be attributed to any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other representation. The term “substantially” and “approximately” are also utilized herein to represent the degree by which a quantitative representation may vary from a stated reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter at issue.
It is to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structure without departing from the concepts of the present invention, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.
A patent mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

What is claimed:

1. A device for consuming a liquid comprising a first hollow cylindrical member having a top portion and a bottom portion wherein the first hollow cylindrical member is provided with a first hole having a diameter of between 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) and wherein the first hole is disposed a distance no greater than the distance to the liquid.

2. The device of claim 1 wherein the first hollow cylindrical member is made out of plastic.

3. The device of claim 1 wherein the first hollow cylindrical member is made out of paper.

4. The device of claim 1 wherein the first hollow cylindrical member has a first hollow cylindrical portion having a first diameter, a second hollow cylindrical portion of the same diameter as the first hollow cylindrical portion, and a third cylindrical portion disposed between the first cylindrical portion and the second cylindrical portion wherein the third cylindrical portion having a second diameter, wherein the second diameter smaller than the first diameter and wherein the hole is disposed in the third hollow cylindrical portion.

5. The device of claim 4 further comprising a cylindrical cover disposed around the third hollow cylindrical portion thereby creating a pocket between the third hollow cylindrical portion and the cylindrical cover.

6. The device of claim 5 further comprising an aromatic or a flavor liquid component disposed within the pocket.

7. The device of claim 1 further comprising a second hollow cylindrical member surrounding the first hollow cylindrical member and covering the first hole.

8. The device of claim 7 wherein the second hollow cylindrical member defines a pocket between the first hollow cylindrical member and the second hollow cylindrical member.

9. The device of claim 8 further comprising a flavoring composition (odor) disposed in the pocket.

10. A straw assembly for consuming a liquid comprising: a first hollow cylindrical member having a first outer diameter; a second hollow cylindrical member having an internal diameter substantially equal to the first outer diameter; a hole having a diameter of between 0.394″ (10.0 mm) and 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) and wherein the hole is disposed a distance of between about 0.250″ (6.35 mm) and less than the distance to the liquid.

11. The straw assembly of claim 10 wherein the second hollow cylindrical members made of plastic.

12. The straw assembly of claim 10 wherein the first hollow cylindrical member is made of plastic.

13. The straw assembly of claim 10 wherein the first hollow cylindrical member is made out of paper.

14. The straw assembly of claim 10 further comprising a hole disposed in the second hollow cylindrical member.

15. A device comprising: a cylindrical member having an internal diameter substantially adapted to engage a drinking straw; a hole having a diameter of between 0.788″ (20.0 mm) and 0.0005″ (0.0127 mm) and wherein the hole is disposed a distance of between about 8.00″ (204 mm) and about 0.25″ (6.35 mm) from the top portion of the first hollow cylindrical member.

16. The device of claim 15 wherein the hollow cylindrical members made of plastic.

17. The device of claim 15 wherein the hollow cylindrical members made of metal.

18. The device of claim 15 having a first and second portion of predetermined internal diameter and a third portion having an internal diameter smaller than the predetermined internal diameter wherein the third portion is disposed between the first and second portions.

19. The device of claim 18 wherein the hole is disposed in the third portion.

20. The device of claim 15 wherein the hollow cylindrical member is provided with an interior taper to accommodate straws of different diameter.