WO1999061339A1

WO1999061339A1 - Multi-compartment container

Info

Publication number: WO1999061339A1
Application number: PCT/IL1999/000270
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael Inbar; Igal Sharon
Original assignee: M.L.I.S. Projects Ltd.
Priority date: 1998-05-22
Filing date: 1999-05-20
Publication date: 1999-12-02
Also published as: AU3952999A; IL124609A0

Abstract

A multi-compartment container for seperately storing at least two different substances, for mixing them prior to use and for dispensing the mixed formulation from the container. The container includes a housing (22) having at least one side wall, a top end opening (26) and a bottom end opening (28), the side walls having an abutment (30). A displaceable member (36) is fitted in and seals the bottom end opening. The partition wall (40) is adapted and configured to cooperate with the abutment to form a seal between the at least two separate and independent top and bottom compartments. The container is provided with an enclosure (70) cooperating with the top end of the housing, the enclosure configured and adapted to permit release of at least a third substance into the top compartment of the container. The housing further may comprise at least one dividing wall (380) to further subdivide either the top or bottom compartment into at least two or more separate and independent compartments. The container has a thin-walled housing which is more flexible than a stiffer activating member and displaceable member which act to reduce and prevent the housing from warping, distoring or deforming as a result of the movement of the displaceable member.

Description

MULTI-COMPARTMENT CONTAINER

FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method for providing individuals with a multi-compartment container in a ready-to-use form which can be used to make a mixed formulation including more specifically a liquid formulation. The container has multiple compautments which separate and independently store different ingredients, components or constituents of a desired mixed formulation which is formed by mixing the ingredients of the container together. The present invention further provides a method and container for mixing different ingredients to form the mixed formulation and in some embodiments of additionally dispensing the mixed formulation.

The present invention has particular application to liquid formulations. Liquid formulations are dispersions, suspensions, mixtures or solutions generally formed by at least one liquid ingredient and some additional ingredients which may be solids, liquids or gases. One such liquid formulation is a cocktail beverage (or in short "cocktails") which is a drink prepared from at least two major Uquid ingredients and some minor ingredients (quantity-wise), typically dry or liquid spices. The Uquid ingredients typically include an alcohol component such as vodka, gin, whiskey, rum, etc., and an additional alcoholic component or non-alcoholic component such as orange juice, tomato juice, carbonated beverage, etc. The minor ingredients, depending on the cocktail type, are for example, salt, pepper, hot-pepper sauce, lemon, lime, sugar, etc. Other Uquid formulations include baby feeding formula, dietetic formulas and a variety of drug and medicines such as, for example, antibiotics.

In some cases, the different ingredients ofthe Uquid formulation have to be mixed with one another only immediately prior to use so that the quaUty ofthe Uquid formulation does not deteriorate. For example, in a Bloody Mary, an early mixing ofthe vodka and the tomato juice wiU reduce the quaUty ofthe cocktail; similarly, the flavor of the various spices and flavoring agents will diminish with time if they are mixed into the cocktail too early.

Given the fact that cocktails or other Uquid formulations such as, for example, baby feeding formulas, have to be prepared immediately prior to use, they are often not readily available as they can only be obtained at a location (e.g. at a bar or at home) having all the necessary ingredients to prepare the cocktail or Uquid formulation.

ι . There is a growing need for means for distribution of Uquid formulations in a manner that would permit the Uquid formulations to be readily and conveniently mixed in a single easy-to-use container just prior to their consumption. There is a further need that the container for mixing the separate ingredients also dispenses the mixed liquid formulations. U.S. Patents 4,785,931 and 5,529,179 disclose a dispensing Ud having a pluraUty of compartments containing flavoring agents for mixing with a Uquid contained in a container in which they are fitted. These compartments are opened by finger pressure to release their contents into the Uquid.

Containers having two or more compartments, each storing a different component of a Uquid formulation, both for human consumption and other uses, are disclosed in the following U.S. Patents: 3,314,563, 3,458,076, 3,856,138, 4,410,085, 4,779,722, 4,823,946, 5,277,303, 5,353,961, 5,447,226, 5,564,600, 5,613,623 and 5,692,644.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention has as its object to provide a method and system for providing an individual with a mixed formulation including a Uquid formulation.

The present invention provides a multicompartment container for separately storing at least two different substances, for mixing the different substances prior to use within the container and for dispensing the mixed formulation from the container. The container includes a housing having at least one side waU, a top end opening and a bottom end opening preferably, but not necessarily, opposite the top end opening. A displaceable member is fitted in and seals the bottom end opening and moves between a first closed position wherein the container has at least a top compartment and a separate and independent bottom compartment and a second open position wherein the top and bottom compartments intercommunicate. The displaceable member may include a bottom wall portion having an opening, a partition wall and at least one support member extending between the bottom waU portion and the partition waU. The partition wall is adapted and configured to cooperate with an abutment in the housing to seal the at least two separate and independent top and bottom compartments one from the other. A stopper may be provided to seal the opening in the bottom wall portion. An activating member preferably exterior of the housing is configured and adapted to controUably move the displaceable member. The stopper may be attached or combined with the activating member to reduce the number of parts and ease manufacturabiUty. A Ud is provided to seal the top end opening ofthe container.

- 2 -

SUBST1TUTE SHEET (RULE 26) In certain embodiments ofthe present invention, the container is provided with an enclosure cooperating with the top end ofthe housing, the enclosure configured and adapted to aUow release of at least a third substance into the top compartment ofthe container. In accordance with a different embodiment ofthe present invention, the housing further may comprise at least one dividing wall to further subdivide either the top or bottom compartment into at least two or more separate and independent compartments. In yet a different aspect ofthe invention, the container has a thin-waUed housing which is more flexible than a stiffer activating member which acts to reduce and prevent the housing from warping, distorting or deforming during movement ofthe displaceable member. In a further aspect ofthe invention, the displaceable member is provided with a peripheral skirt which forms a seal between the housing side waUs and the displaceable member, the peripheral skirt being provided with one or a multiple of projections which contact the housing side walls and assist in forming the seal. In still a further different embodiment ofthe present invention, the peripheral skirt or portion ofthe displaceable member in contact with the housing side walls, and the housing itself, are made of materials, such as, for example, polypropylene, and adapted and configured such that an air-tight and Uquid-tight seal is maintained while the displaceable member is in its first closed position and which permits air to enter the container as the displaceable member is moved to its second open position so as to reduce the pressure difference between the interior and exterior ofthe container during its use.

A different aspect ofthe invention involves a method for providing individuals with means for preparing a mixed formulation which consists of at least two ingredients which are mixed together prior to consumption, the method comprising the steps of (a) providing a housing having at least one side wall, a top opening and a bottom opening preferably, but not necessarily, opposite the top opening, the side waU having an abutment, (b) providing a displaceable member into the bottom opening ofthe housing, the displaceable member comprising a bottom waU portion having an opening, a peripheral skirt connected to the bottom waU portion adapted and configured to form a seal between the housing and the peripheral skirt, a partition wall, and at least one support member extending between the bottom wall portion and the partition wall, the partition waU adapted and configured to form a seal with the abutment, the displaceable member adapted and configured to be axially moveable by an external activating member between a first closed position to form at least one top compartment and at least one separate and independent bottom compartment and a second open position wherein the top and bottom compartments communicate, (c) moving the displaceable member to a first closed position to form a top compartment sealed from the bottom compartment, (d) introducing a subsxancs through the opening in the bottom wall portion ofthe displaceable member, (e) sealing the opening in the bottom wall portion ofthe displaceable member, (f) introducing a second substance into the housing, and (g) providing a Ud to seal the top opening.

Further aspects ofthe method may include the step of rotating the housing to introduce the second substance through the top opening ofthe housing and thereafter providing a Ud to seal the top opening. Other aspects ofthe method may include providing the Ud on the housing, then introducing the second substance into the housing from the bottom end and thereafter moving the displaceable member to the first closed position. StiU further aspects ofthe method may include introducing the second substance prior to the displaceable member being provided into the housing bottom opening. The method also may include moving the displaceable member to the second open position such that the first and second substances are mixed and removing the Ud which seals the top opening. The method may further include any one ofthe foUowing steps: preparing the lid with an enclosure which cooperates with the top compartment and is adapted and configured to release a third substance into the top compartment; providing the top compartment ofthe housing with at least one enclosure containing at least a third substance, the enclosure being adapted and configured to permit controUable release ofthe at least third substance into the top compartment; and releasing the contents ofthe at least one enclosure into the container. The method may further include providing the housing with a dividing waU to further subdivide the top or bottom compartments into at least two or more separate and independent compartments when the displaceable member is in the first closed position and the respective top and bottom housing openings are sealed.

The method in another aspect provides a method for providing an individual with a Uquid formulation consisting of at least two Uquid ingredients and at least one flavoring agent which are mixed together prior to consumption comprising the steps of:

(a) providing a container having at least two compartments, one for each said at least two Uquid ingredients sealed from one another by a seal, the integrity of which can be controlled and prepared to allow mixing of said at least two Uquid components with one another; and filling each ofthe compartments with an amount of one said Uquid component;

(b) providing the container with a Ud having a pluraUty of enclosures formed therein, one for each ofthe flavoring agents, the enclosure being operable to aUow release of their contents into the container, and filling each ofthe enclosures with one ofthe flavoring agents; and (c) providing the individual with said container.

The method further may provide: (d) impairing the integrity of the seal between the compartments and providing finger pressure to each to said enclosures to release their contents into the container, whereby said liquid formulation is being formed; and

(e) dispensing said Uquid formulation to the individual. By yet another aspect the present invention provides a container for use in preparing a liquid formulation consisting of at least two Uquid ingredients and flavoring agents, the container comprising at least two compartments, one for each of said at least two Uquid ingredients, sealable from one another by a seal, the integrity of which can be controllably impaired by a user to aUow mixing of said at least two Uquid components with one another; and a Ud having a pluraUty of enclosures formed therein, one for each ofthe flavoring agents, the enclosure being operable to allow release of their contents into the container.

According to a preferred embodiment ofthe invention, the Ud is integraUy formed on the container or tightly fitted thereto and defines therein a dispensing opening to allow dispensing of the Uquid formulation . In accordance with another embodiment, the Ud is removable, to be removed by the user after forming the Uquid formulation.

The term "Uquid ingredient" should be understood as encompassing the Uquid constituents ofthe container. In the case of a cocktail, these wiU typicaUy include an alcohol component which may be wine, a spirit such as whiskey, vodka, gin, etc.; and an additional alcohoUc component or a non-alcoholic component which may be juice, e.g. orange juice, tomato juice, etc., as well as any other soft drink used for preparing cocktails. The cocktail may alternatively consist of entirely non-alcohoUc components. In general, the term "liquid ingredienf should be understood as encompassing both a pure component, namely a Uquid obtained from a single source, e.g. orange juice, vodka, etc., as weU as a mixture of two or more Uquids which may be stored with one another, e.g. a fruit cocktail (a mixture of two or more juices), a mixture of two different spirits, etc. Similarly, the individual flavoring agents may comprise a pure agent, e.g. salt, sugar, pepper, etc. or the flavoring agent may by itself be a mixture of flavorants such as a hot pepper sauce, a mixture of spices, etc. The invention wiU now be illustrated, in a non-Uiniting manner, by describing some specific embodiments, while making occasional reference to the annexed drawings. These embodiments are meant to illustrate the invention and as will be appreciated by the artisan, the invention has a much wider scope than these iUustrated embodiments and applies to the full scope as defined herein; and the artisan should be able, based on the present disclosure, to practice the invention in its full scope.

D - BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figures 1A-1D show a longitudinal cross-section through a container of an embodiment ofthe invention wherein Figure 1 A shows the container prior to use as provided to the consumer, Figure IB shows the container after mixing the Uquid ingredients, Figure IC shows the container during dispensing ofthe flavoring agents into the mixture, and Figure ID shows the container in consumption.

Figure 2A-2C show another embodiment of a container in a longitudinal cross-section, wherein Figure 2A shows the container as provided to the consumer prior to use, Figure 2B shows the container after mixing the two Uquid ingredients, and Figure 2C shows the container during dispensing ofthe flavoring agents.

Figure 3 is a top view ofthe container of Figures 2A-2C. Figures 4A and 4B show a longitudinal cross-section through a container according to a further embodiment ofthe invention in the stages corresponding to those of Figures 2A and 2C, respectively. Figure 5 is a top view ofthe container in the position seen in Figure 4A.

Figure 6A is a cross-section through lines A-A in Figure 4A, and Figure 6B is a cross-section through lines B-B in Figure 4B.

Figures 7A and 7B show a longitudinal cross-section of a container in accordance with another embodiment ofthe invention wherein Figure 7 A shows the container in the manner it is being provided to the consumer, and Figure 7B shows the container after mixing ofthe liquid ingredients and during dispensing ofthe flavoring agents.

Figure 8 is a top view ofthe container in the state shown in Figure 7A. Figures 9A-9F show steps of filling a container ofthe embodiment of Figures 1A-1D.

Figure 10 is an exploded cross-sectional view of a container according to another embodiment ofthe present invention; Figure 10A is a cross-section ofthe displaceable member and Figure 1 OB is a cross-section ofthe annular skirt ofthe displaceable member. Figure 11 shows another embodiment of a container in longitudinal cross- section, and Figure 11 A is a cross-section ofthe container of Figure 11 taken along line A- A.

Figure 12 shows another embodiment of a container in longitudinal cross- section, and Figure 12A is a cross-section ofthe container of Figure 12 taken along line A- A.

- o - Figure 13 shows another embodiment of a container in longitudinal cross- section, and Figure 13A is a cross-section ofthe container of Figure 13 taken along line B- B.

DETADLED DESCRIPTION OF SOME SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

Reference is first being made to Figures 1 A-1D showing a container 20 having a container body or housing 22 having a top opening 26 and an opposite bottom opening 28 and a Ud 24 sealingly engaged at top opening 26 ofthe container. The sealing engagement ofthe Ud 24 to the body 22 may be by means of screw-fitting, by snap engagement, etc. Formed at a mid portion ofthe container is an annular radiaUy inwardly extending abutment 30 defining an annular sealing seat 32 and a circular opening 31.

Fitted within bottom opening 28 of container 22 is an axially displaceable member 36 which has a pluraUty of support ribs 38 supporting a partition wall 40 having at its top an annular projection 42 which is snugly and sealingly received within seat 32 to form a fluid-tight seal. Thus, in the state of member 36 shown in Figure 1A, there are two compartments 46 and 48 defined within the container, each one holding a different ingredient which are to be mixed together for preparation of a Uquid formulation, such as, for example, a cocktail. One of these ingredients may for example be an alcohol ingredient, e.g. a spirit, wine, etc., and the other may be a juice, a carbonated drink, etc. Member 36 has a bottom waU segment 50, in this case annularly shaped, having an opening 35 (in this example centrally located) which is used for introducing a Uquid ingredient into compartment 48 as wiU hereinafter be explained with reference to Figure 9. A closure 52 fits in and seals opening 35. Bottom wall segment 50 and closure 52 combine to form the bottom waU of container 10. Member 36 has an upwardly projecting annular skirt 60 tightly engaging the inner face ofthe side waUs 23 of container body 22 to ensure a fluid-tight seal between the displaceable member and the side walls of the housing 12. Openings 37 are provided between support ribs 38 to allow components introduced into the opening 35 of displaceable member 36 to communicate with the interior ofthe container housing 22. Member 36 cooperates with an actuating ring 54 formed with two radial knobs 56 projecting through a heUcal path 34 defined in the side waU 23 ofthe container and fastening aperture 39 formed in annular skirt 60. Thus, rotation of ring 54 causes axial displacement of member 36 to the state seen in Figure IB. The displacement in Figure IB disengages annular projection 42 from seat 32 thus allowing the two Uquid ingredients to mix with one another. Stopper 23 may be attached to actuating ring 54 to reduce the number of parts and to prevent misplacement of stopper 23.

- / - Cap or Ud 24 is formed with an upper removable wall 68, and formed within the cap are a pluraUty of enclosures 70, 72, in this particular example, the first one holding a dry flavorant and the latter holding a Uquid flavorant. Each of these enclosures has bellow- type waUs 74 and has a piercing member 76 at its top. At the bottom, each ofthe enclosures

5 is sealed by a film 78.

In order to prepare the Uquid formulation, typically at a first stage, the user rotates actuating ring 54 to axially displace member 36 into the state shown in Figure IB so as to mix the two Uquid ingredients. Then, at a next stage, upper wall 68 is removed and then, as can be seen in Figure IC, by using finger pressure, the piercing members 76 are

10 downwardly pressed thus piercing film 78 to allow the release ofthe contents of enclosures 70 and 72 into the Uquid mixture. Obviously, the sequence of steps for preparing the liquid formulation may be reversed, namely first dispensing the flavoring agents into the top compartments 46 and then mixing the two Uquid ingredients. After thorough mixture of aU ingredients, cap 24 may be removed to aUow the user to dispense the Uquid formulation

15 through opening 26, as seen in Figure ID.

Another embodiment of a container 80 can be seen in Figures 2A-2C and Figure 3. The arrangement for storage and mixing ofthe different Uquid ingredients in container 80 is essentiaUy the same as that of container 20 in Figures 1A-1D and the description wiU thus not be repeated again herein. The major difference between container

20 80 and container 20 resides in the arrangement at the top ofthe container. Container 80 has a spout 82 sealed by a removable cap 84. Container 80 comprises on a top wall three flavorants enclosures 86, 88 and 90 (of which two are seen in Figures 2A-2C and all three seen in Figure 3). Enclosures 86, 88 and 90 are defined by a resiUent wall 92 having an opening at the bottom sealed by a slotted resiUent member 94. By the appUcation of finger

25 pressure on walls 92, as seen in Figure 2C, member 94 deforms to allow widening ofthe slot to define a dispensing opening 98, whereupon the flavoring agents are dispensed into the container's interior (Figure 2C). The manner of preparation ofthe cocktail may foUow the sequence described above, and after formation ofthe cocktail, cap 84 may be removed to aUow dispensing ofthe cocktail.

30 Still another embodiment of a container can be seen in Figures 4A-6B. Here again, reference is made to the description of Figures 1A-1D to understand the structure and the function ofthe container as it relates to the manner of storage and mixing ofthe Uquid ingredients. Similar to the embodiment of container 80, container 100 of this embodiment is formed with a spout 102 with a sealing cap 104, the spout however being formed at the

35 center ofthe container's upper wall 106. Fitted on top of upper wall 106 are capsules 107 defining enclosures 108 which contain flavoring agents. Each capsule 107 is r tatably fitted to upper wall 106 at 110. Each capsule is provided with a manipulating projection 112 to allow the user to rotate them about their axis. Defined within waU 106, are openings 116 which are normally sealed by a bottom wall ofthe capsule 107. As represented in Figure 6 A, each capsule has an opening 120 which in the state shown in Figures 4A and 6A,

5 is angularly displaced from opening 116 which is thus sealed. By 90 "rotation, (Figures 4B and-6B) opening 120 comes to Ue opposite opening 116 allowing release ofthe contents of enclosures 108 (Figure 4B) into the liquid.

Another embodiment ofthe invention can be seen in Figures 7A-8. Here again, reference is made to the embodiment of Figures 1A-1D for explanation ofthe manner

10 of storage and mixing ofthe Uquid ingredients. Container 140 has a central spout 142 sealed by a cap 144 and carries four flavoring agent enclosures 146 each being defined by a casing member 148 having an upper elevational shape of a section of an annulus. Each casing 148 has a lateral opening 150 which in the storage stage (Figure 7A) bears against the inner face 152 ofthe container's upper wall portion, whereby the enclosure 146 is

15 sealed. Each of members 148 is hinged along its bottom inner portion 158 and by applying finger pressure on top of members 148, the members rotate into the container to aUow release ofthe contents ofthe enclosures into the container's interior.

Reference is now being made to Figures 9A-9F showing the manner of preparing a container of Figure 1 A. In a first step, illustrated in Figure 9 A, cap 24 with its

20 bottom side up is introduced, without the sealing film 78 and each of compartments 72 and 74 is filled, through nozzles 200 with the appropriate flavoring agent. Then, at a next step (Figure 9B) a film 78 is appUed on the bottom face ofthe cap to seal enclosures 72, 74. At the same time, container body 22 is introduced, with its bottom side up, with cap 52 removed, and the appropriate Uquid is introduced into compartment 48 through the opening

25 50 by means of nozzle 210. Then (Figure 9D) cap 52 is press fitted to seal the opening 50, the container is rotated and liquid is then introduced through opening 26 by means of nozzle 210. At a final step (Figure 9E) cap 24 is fitted onto the opening 26.

In each ofthe embodiments of Figures 1-9, the enclosure has been associated with and dispenses its contents into the top portion or compartment ofthe container. Some

30 embodiments have iUustrated the enclosures formed in the upper portion ofthe housing while others have shown the enclosures formed as a part ofthe Ud. It can be appreciated that the various enclosure embodiments can be fitted or formed as part of either the top portion ofthe housing or the Ud. In addition, while the examples have only illustrated two, three and four enclosures, there may be provided as little as one enclosure or as many as

35 may be desired. Figure 10 shows an exploded cross-sectional view of a container 20 substantially similar to the container 20 of Figure 1 A. Housing 22 is constructed by assembling main tank 15 (having neck portion 25 and inwardly projecting annular engagement member 33) with top member 16 by ultrasonic welding so that main tank 15

5 and top member 16 form fluid-tight compartment 46. The top member 16 of Figure 10 is configured to provide a different shape for opening 26 than iUustrated in Figure 1. The construction of housing 22 in this manner allows the container opening and top portion to take many different forms in an economical and easily manufactured manner. The opening 26 in the top end ofthe housing 22 is fitted with a Ud. Bottle or container 20 is generally a

10 tubular body 22 with an opening 28 at the bottom end 18 of the container and a second opening 26 at an opposite top end with constricted neck portion 25 intermediate the top and bottom ends. While bottle or container 20 in Figure 10 has been formed with a constricted neck portion, the housing may also be formed without a constriction as iUustrated in the embodiment of Figure 1.

15 Figure 10 also shows displaceable member 36 with manipulable actuating ring member 54. Displaceable member 36 is inserted within the bottom end 18 of housing 22 and actuating member 54 is fitted over the bottom end ofthe housing 22 and positioned so that pins 56 are insertable through heUcal groove 34 formed in the housing 22 and are snap-fitted through apertures 39 in displaceable member 36 to attach the actuating member

20 54 to the displaceable member 36.

Preferably the Ud seals the opening 26 in a manner so that the seal withstands the container being subject to higher or lower pressures than the internal container pressure such as may occur during air transport for example. Additionally, the stopper 52 preferably should form a seal with the displaceable member 36 in a manner so

25 that the seal withstands the container being subject to pressures which may be higher or lower than the internal container pressure. The seal between the displaceable member 36 and housing preferably should likewise be able to withstand the container being subject to pressures which may be higher or lower than the internal container pressure. By sealing both ends ofthe container to resist a different pressure environment, such as a vacuum

30 which may occur during air transport, neither compartment will undergo a change in pressure which may detrimentaUy effect the seal between the partition wall and abutment. Tightly sealing both ends ofthe housing helps to prevent the premature mixing ofthe components which may occur if either one ofthe pressures in the top or bottom compartments changes which may break the seal ofthe partition wall. To provide a better

35 seal and withstand the rigors of being subject to higher and lower pressures, the lid for the top opening may be threaded and screw-engaged with the top ofthe housing, stepper 52 may likewise be formed with threads which cooperate with corresponding threads formed in the displaceable member and the annular skirt may be provided with a ring of soft material (O-ring), aU as illustrated in Figure 11.

Depending upon whether the container is for a single or multiples use(s), the

5 seal formed by the annular projection 42 (on partition wall 40) and groove 32 (on annular engagement member 33) can be designed to form a one-use seal or a reformable seal (i.e., resealable). In some appUcations, it may be desirable to have the container specifically constructed for a single use so the steriUty ofthe container and the correction proportions, steriUty and quaUty ofthe components are ensured. The annular projection 42 and groove

10 32 may be configured and adapted for a single use such as by, for example, ultrasonically welding the two together wherein the welded joint puUs apart upon movement ofthe displaceable member 36. The annular projection 42 and groove 32 also may be configured and adapted to be resealable, i.e., the seal can be broken and reformed by movement ofthe displaceable member.

15 It should be apparent that while specific shapes and locations of elements have been described and set forth in the examples, other shapes and locations of elements are contemplated herein. For example, while the housing has been disclosed and depicted as generaUy cylindrical or tubular in shape it could also be rectangular, and while the abutment or engagement member has been shown and described as annular with a circular

20 opening and partition wall, the abutment could form a square opening and could be used with a rectangular partition waU.

Annular skirt 60 shown in Figures 10A and 10B should maintain the Uquid- tight seal with the housing side wall as the displaceable member 36 rotates or moves and the partition wall 40 is moved from a position where the annular projection 42 and groove 32

25 form a seal and the container has two separate compartments to a position where the annular projection 42 and groove 32 separate and the two compartments communicate with one another. To faciUtate foiming and mamtaining a Uquid-tight seal between the annular skirt 60 and the inner side walls ofthe bottom ofthe container housing 22, the annular skirt 60 may have a taper so that it is the widest at the end 61 which is disconnected from the bottom

30 waU segment 50. In this manner, the annular skirt is acting as a spring applying pressure at end 61 against the housing side walls. In addition to or alternatively, end 61 may contain a projection 62 or multiple projections 62, 63, 64 and 65 which contact the inner side waU(s) ofthe housing 22 to form a seal. Projections 62, 63, 64 and 65 may be relatively small and further may be provided with sharp edges as iUustrated in Figure 10B or blunt rounded

35 edges (not shown). The small projections are more flexible than surrounding portions ofthe annular skirt and, thus, deform against the side walls ofthe housing to foπn a liquid-tight seal. Alternatively, the annular skirt may be formed with a soft sealing material as illustrated and described with reference to Figure 11.

It is advantageous from a cost perspective to make the housing ofthe container as thin as possible in order to use less material. However, the container should not collapse by the difference in internal and external container pressures or stresses introduced during activation ofthe displaceable member or the container's use. It is further advantageous to use a thin, flexible plastic material for the container housing because the raw material is generally inexpensive to purchase and process so that the housing would be inexpensive to make, Ught-weight and generaUy unbreakable. In addition, many plastics

10 meet with United States Food and Drug Admmistration ('TDA") approval for medicines, food and the like.

While it is advantageous to make the housing walls very thin, it has been found that if the housing waUs were too thin, the container may be susceptible to warping distorting or deforming during activation ofthe displaceable member which can cause the

15 Uquid to leak out. To overcome the susceptibiUty of the container to warp, it has been found that the housing can be made thinner than it could otherwise be if the activating member 54 is made more rigid than the housing 22. GeneraUy, the housing body 22 is made of softer more flexible polypropylene while the activating ring is made from a stiffer polypropylene. The displaceable member may be made of material which is stiffer than the 0 housing but is generally not stiffer than the activating ring although it may have a stiffness ofthe same magnitude. For example, an approximately l-2mm thick polypropylene housing 22 having a flexible modular of elasticity ('TME") of about 900-1600 MPa (using ASTM D-790M test method) and preferably about 900 MPa, a polypropylene activating member 54 approximately 1.8-3.5mm thick having an FME of approximately 1400-2000 5 MPa (and preferably about 1600 MPa) and an approximately l-2mm thick polypropylene displaceable member 36 having a flexible modular of elasticity ('TME") of approximately 1400-2000 MPa, and preferably 1600 MPa has been used successfully without the housing warping or distorting during activation ofthe displaceable member. Other materials such as ABS may also be used for activating member 54. With an approximately 1.8-3.5mm thick

30 polypropylene activating ring member 54 having an approximately 1600 MPa FME, the container body 22 being thinner and made of a more flexible material (approximate FME of 900 MPA) is prevented from warping against the displaceable member 36.

Preparation ofthe container 20 for use and dispensing ofthe formulation is as foUows. Displaceable member 36, having an end waU 50 with a sealable filling aperture

35 35 and a partition wall 40 dependent from end wall 50 by stems 38, is fitted at the bottom end of housing 22. Activating ring member 54 is turned thus rotating displaceable —ember 36 which as a result of pins 56 in helical groove 34 causes axial displacement of partition wall 40 with respect to seat 32 so that partition wall 40 forms a fluid-tight seal with seat 32. The container 10 is turned upright and with the partition wall forming a fluid-tight seal, a first component 101, e.g., water, is introduced through aperture 35 which is then sealed by stopper 38. The container is then rotated so that opening 86 is facing upwardly. A second component 104, e.g., a powdered formula, is introduced through opening 26 which is then sealed by closure assembly 24 which may be resealable.

To use the container to dispense a mixed formulation, the displaceable member 36 is rotated such that partition wall 40 disengages seat 32 to aUow mixing of components 101 and 104 to yield Uquid formulation 110. During mixing, the container may be rotated and turned upside down. After mixing and homogenization, the mixed Uquid formulation may be dispensed through opening 26.

When the displaceable member 36 is lowered from its sealed position to its unsealed position, the internal volume ofthe bottom compartment 48 (and the container as a whole) increases. This growth in volume during activation can cause a vacuum which can have detrimental effects. The vacuum can make it more difficult to activate the displaceable member (and in extreme cases may prevent the displaceable member from lowering altogether) or can distort and warp the container housing 22 causing leaks.

In order to overcome these problems, air should be introduced into the container during the activation process in order to equalize the internal and external container pressure. In the past, a valve would be used to equalize the pressure or the container was designed and constructed of such strength so that the container would not coUapse when the vacuum force was overcome. It has been found that by selecting particular materials and thicknesses for the container housing and annular skirt 60 ofthe present invention that the annular skirt 60 and the housing walls can maintain a Uquid seal during and after activation and also aUow air to enter the container housing during the activation process to equalize the pressure differential between the interior and exterior of the housing. Once the displaceable member is in its at rest, second open position, a Uquid and air-tight seal returns. An illustrative example is container housing 22 approximately 1- 2mm thick manufactured from polypropylene having an FME of approximately 900-1600 while the annular skirt 60 is approximately l-2mm thick manufactured of a relatively flexible material having an FME of approximately 1400-2000 MPa using test method ASTM-D-790M. Two different polypropylenes of different rigidity have been successful. More particularly, polypropylene having an FME of approximately 1600 MPa for the annular skirt 60 and polypropylene having an FME of approximately 900 MPa for the housing body have been used. This flexibility allows the skirt to give slightly curing

J7 activation as the pressure on the exterior of the container builds up upon lowering ofthe displaceable member 36. The sUght flexing ofthe annular skirt 60 allows air to influx into the container while preventing the Uquid from escaping. As the volume ofthe container increases upon activation ofthe displaceable member, the air wiU always influx into the bottle or container as a result ofthe lower pressure on the inside ofthe container.

An alternative way of allowing the pressure to equaUze during activation of the displaceable member is to provide fine grooves or scratches in the inner surface ofthe housing body at the locations the displaceable member contacts as it moves between the closed and open positions. These scratches would aUow air to influx into the container while preventing the Uquid components or Uquid formulation from escaping. Preferably the displaceable member would not contact the housing side where the scratches are located when the displaceable member is at the fuUy open, or closed position.

Containers having a housing which include more than two compartments are shown in Figures 11-13. Figure 11 shows a container 300, the housing 310 which is substantially similar to the housing in Figure 10 except that upper compartment 346 has been subdivided into sub-compartments 370, 372, 373 and 374 by dividing waU 380. Dividing wall 380 extends from the top end ofthe housing to the annular seat 332. In this embodiment, Ud 324 cooperates with threads 315 in the top end 318 of housing 300 in order to cover and seal the top opening 326 ofthe housing. The Ud 324 may have a pilfer-proof or child safety feature. The Ud 324 further may be provided with a soft material 322 on its inner surface to provide a seal against the dividing wall 380.

Dividing wall 380 may be arranged in any manner to provide the desired subdivision of upper compartment 346 and can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. Partition waU 340 of displaceable member 336 is coated with a soft sealing material 341, which may or may not be the same as the soft material 322 on the inner surface ofthe Ud 324, which provides a seal against dividing walls 380 when the displaceable member 336 is moved into its sealing position.

The annular skirt 360 may be the same as annular skirt 60 of Figure 10 or in the case of multi-use containers or where the seal between the annular skirt and container is to withstand changing pressures, annular skirt 360 may be stronger and further may be provided with a soft ring 361 (shown in Figure 11) of material such as siUcon, rubber or other synthetic rubber so that it endures multiple sterilizing and reuse. In addition, the openings 339 in the displaceable member 336 are threaded as are the pins 356 which connect the activating ring member 354 to the displaceable member 336. In this manner, the displaceable member can be easily dismantled by unscrewing pins 356. The closure member 352 may be formed with threads 351 which cooperate with threads 337 formed in the opening 335 ofthe displaceable member 336.

Figure 12 shows a container 400 substantially the same as Figure 11 except that the displaceable member 436 is held in the required position by a different mechanism. In this embodiment, the bottom portion ofthe housing contains internal threads 405 integral with the inner face ofthe housing wall which cooperate with threads 455 formed on the outer surface of a circumferential skirt 450. Movement of the displaceable member 436 is controUed by turning the outer skirt 450 ofthe displaceable member 436. The displaceable mechanism may be removed from the container, but in order to prevent inadvertent removal of the displaceable member, threads 405 on the inner surface of the container housing may not extend aU the way to the end ofthe housing thus requiring additional effort to remove the displaceable member 336 by placing additional pressure on the skirt 450.

Figure 13 shows a container 500 similar to Figure 11 but with the bottom compartment 548 divided into sub-compartments 582 and 584. Bottom compartment 548 is provided with displaceable member 536 which has a dividing waU 580 which is connected to the partition waU 540 and extends to and is connected with the bottom waU segment 550. The dividing waU 580 is configured so that when the partition waU 540 meets with the seat 532 and forms a seal between the top compartment 546 and bottom compartments 548, the dividing waU 580 wiU meet at a right angle with the inner side waUs ofthe bottom portion ofthe housing to form a seal. Dividing wall 580 or the side walls ofthe housing may be provided with a sealing material or gasket to assist in forming a Uquid and air tight seal between sub-compartments 582 and 584. The displaceable member 536 may have an annular skirt 560, pins 556 and activating ring member 554 as in Figures 10, 11 or 12. Stopper 552 is provided to cover the opening 535 in the displaceable member 536. The stopper seals the opening and forms a Uquid and fluid tight seal with dividing waU 580 so that the ingredients in the two sub-compartments 582, 584 do not mix until the seal between partition waU 540 and annular seal 532 is broken.

It should be appreciated that the present invention may be used to advantage for a wide range of implementations of two-compartment containers. Possible implementations include, but are not limited to, food, beverage and pharmaceutical appUcations, and may contain ingredients in a Uquid, soUd or gas state. It further should be appreciated that in some embodiments the invention also may be particularly directed toward single use or pre-packaged two or more compartment containers which are easily and inexpensively constructed and filled so as to be disposable. The container also may feature accessories specific to a given appUcation for dispensing ofthe final mixture. Possibilities include, but are not limited to, feeding devices designed for infants or geriatrics and measuring cups or other devices for dispensing measured units for medicines and the like.

The containers ofthe present invention may be filled under a wide range of controlled conditions suited to a wide range of applications. The entire assembly process may be performed under sterile conditions and may use sterilized components and ingredients. In addition, any one ofthe compartments may be partially evacuated. Alternatively or in addition to, an inert gas such as Nitrogen may be introduced either above or below atmospheric pressure to minimize oxidation ofthe contents during storage. Other special environmental conditions such as controlled humidity also may be employed. In cases such as infant formula in which the mixture may need to be warmed to ensure dissolution before dispensing, the two-compartment container may be made entirely of non-metalUc materials to allow direct heating ofthe contents in a microwave oven. Alternatively, or in addition to, the two-compartment container may be made entirely of materials to aUow heating ofthe contents by placing the container in boiling or heated Uquid such as water. Many materials may be used in the construction ofthe different embodiments ofthe invention including plastics such as, for example, polypropylene as described above. The feeding nipple and portions ofthe partition wall and seat may be made of siUcon rubber. When used to store or dispense medicines and food, it is contemplated that the materials ofthe container meet regulatory standards such as provided by the FDA and other regulatory authorities.

While the invention has been described with reference to specific examples and embodiments, such description, examples and specific embodiments are not intended in any way to limit the scope ofthe invention. As will be apparent to those skiUed in the art, modifications and adaptions ofthe structure, method and apparatus ofthe above-described invention including substitution of equivalents may be made without departing from the spirit, scope or broader aspects ofthe invention.

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Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A prefilled container for separately storing at least two different substances, for controUably mixing the different substances in the container and for dispensing the mixed formulation comprising: a) a housing having a side wall, a top opening and a bottom opening, the side waU having an abutment; b) a displaceable member adapted and configured to fit within and seal the bottom opening ofthe housing and movable between a first closed position to form at least a top compartment for holding a first substance and at least an independent and separate bottom compartment for holding a second substance and a second open position wherein the top and bottom compartments communicate, the displaceable member having a partition waU adapted and configured to cooperate with the abutment to form a seal when the displaceable member is located in the first closed position, the displaceable member being located in its first closed position forming the top compartment holding the first substance and the bottom compartment holding the second substance; c) an activating member exterior ofthe housing adapted and configured to controUably move the displaceable member between the first closed position and the second open position; and d) a Ud adapted and configured to seal the top opening ofthe housing, wherein the top compartment has associated therewith at least one enclosure containing at least a third substance, the enclosure being adapted and configured to aUow controllable release ofthe at least third substance into the container.

2. The container according to claim 1 wherein the top opening is a dispensing opening, the first and second substances are Uquids and the partition waU and abutment form a Uquid-tight seal.

3. The container according to claim 1 wherein the container comprises an upper removable wall to protect the enclosure(s) from premature or accidental release of their contents.

4. The container according to claim 1 wherein the Ud comprises the at least one enclosure, the enclosure having flexible wall(s) adapted and configured to collapse upon exertion of a force, a piercing member and a bottom sealing wall wherein e piercing

- r member is adapted and configured to rupture the bottom wall upon the coUapse ofthe flexible walls to release the contents ofthe enclosure.

5. The container according to claim 1 wherein the enclosure comprises a resiUent wall having an opening sealed by a slotted resiUent member wherein the slot in resiUent member is adapted and configured to open to release the contents ofthe enclosure upon appUcation of a predetermined pressure on the resiUent walls.

6. The container according to claim 1 having an upper waU having at least one aperture(s) formed therein, the enclosures comprising capsule(s) having a bottom waU with at least one opening, the capsule(s) adapted and configured to rotate between a first position where the aperture(s) communicate with the opening(s) to form a passage to release the contents ofthe capsule(s) into the interior ofthe housing and a second position where the apertures and opening(s) do not communicate and the capsule(s) are sealed.

7. The container according to claim 1 wherein the enclosure comprises a casing member having an opening, the casing member adapted and configured to rotate between a first position wherein the opening abuts against and the casing member is sealed by the upper portion ofthe housing and a second position wherein the opening is in communication with the interior ofthe housing to release the contents ofthe enclosure.

8. The container according to claim 1 wherein the displaceable member comprises a bottom waU portion with an opening, a stopper adapted and configured to seal the opening, at least one support member extending between the bottom waU portion and the partition wall and a peripheral skirt member connected to the bottom wall portion and adapted and configured to form a seal against the inner surface ofthe housing side wall.

9. The container according to claim 8 wherein the peripheral skirt has at least one projection adapted and configured to contact the inner side wall(s) ofthe housing to form a seal.

10. The container according to claim 9 wherein the proj ections are formed of a resiUent material which is more flexible than the material ofthe peripheral skirt.

- 7^"?

11. The container according to claim 1 wherein the activating member Is more rigid than the housing so as to reduce distortion, warpage or deformation ofthe housing during movement ofthe displaceable member.

12. The container according to claim 11 wherein the housing side wall(s) are formed of polypropylene approximately 1-2 mm thick.

13. The container according to claim 12 wherein the displaceable member is formed of polypropylene approximately 1-1.5mm thick and the activating member is formed of polypropylene approximately 1.8-3.5 mm thick.

14. The container according to claim 13 wherein the displaceable member and activating ring member are formed of polypropylene having a flexible modular of elasticity of approximately 1600 MPa.

15. The container according to claim 1 wherein the displaceable member and housing waUs are adapted and configured such that an air and Uquid seal are formed and maintained while the displaceable member is at rest and air is permitted to enter the container as a result of movement ofthe displaceable member from the first closed position to the second open position to equalize the pressure difference between the interior and exterior ofthe housing.

16. The container according to claim 1 wherein the top compartment comprises a dividing wall connected to the housing side waU to further subdivide the top compartment into at least two or more separate and independent compartments when the displaceable member is in the first closed position.

17. The container according to claim 1 wherein the displaceable member comprises a dividing waU to further subdivide the bottom compartment into at least two separate and independent compartments when the displaceable member is sealed with the stopper and is in its first closed position.

18. A multicompartment container for separately storing at least three difference substances, for controUably mixing the different substances in the container and for dispensing the mixed formulation comprising: a) a housing having a side wall, a top opening and a bottom opening, the side waU having an abutment; b) a displaceable member adapted and configured to fit within the bottom opening ofthe housing and movable between a first closed position to form at least a top compartment for holding a first substance and at least an independent and separate bottom compartment for holding a second substance and a second open position wherein the top and bottom compartments communicate, the displaceable member having a partition wall adapted and configured to cooperate with the abutment to form a seal when the displaceable member is moved into the first closed position; c) an activating member exterior ofthe housing adapted and configured to controUably move the displaceable member between the first closed position and the second open position; and d) a Ud adapted and configured to seal the top opening ofthe housing, wherein the housing comprises at least one dividing wall to further subdivide either the top or bottom compartment into at least two or more separate and independent compartments when the displaceable member is in the first closed position and which communicate and release their contents when the displaceable member is moved to the second open position.

19. The container according to claim 18 wherein the dividing waU is connected to the housing and divides the top compartment into two or more separate and independent compartments when the displaceable member is in its first closed position.

20. The container according to claim 18 wherein the displaceable member comprises the dividing wall to form at least two separate and independent compartments in the bottom compartment when the displaceable member is fitted with the stopper and is in its first closed position.

21. A prefilled container for separately storing at least two different substances, for controUably mixing the different substances in the container and for dispensing the mixed formulation comprising: a) a housing having a side wall, a top opening and a bottom opening, the side waU having an abutment; b) a displaceable member adapted and configured to fit withir. the bottom opening ofthe housing and movable between a first closed position to fc~ ax least a top compartment for holding a first substance and at least an independent and separate bottom compartment for holding a second substance and a second open position wherein the top and bottom compartments communicate, the displaceable member having a bottom wall portion with an opening, a stopper adapted and configured to seal the opening, a peripheral skirt connected to the bottom wall portion, a partition wall and at least one support member extending between the bottom wall portion and partition waU, the partition waU adapted and configured to cooperate with the abutment to form a seal when the displaceable member is located in the first closed position; c) an activating member exterior ofthe housing adapted and configured to controUably move the displaceable member between the first closed position and the second open position; and d) a Ud adapted and configured to seal the top opening ofthe housing, wherein the peripheral skirt has at least one projection adapted and configured to contact the inner side waU(s) ofthe housing to form a seal.

22. The container according to claim 21 wherein the projection(s) are more flexible than surrounding portions ofthe peripheral skirt.

23. The container according to claim 22 wherein the projection(s) are formed of a material which is more resiUent than the peripheral skirt.

24. The container according to claim 21 wherein the projections) have sharp edge(s) which contact the inner surface ofthe housing side wall(s).

25. The container according to claim 21 wherein the peripheral skirt and housing wall(s) are adapted and configured such that an air and Uquid seal are formed and maintained while the displaceable member is at rest and air is permitted to enter the container from between the peripheral skirt and housing as a result of movement ofthe displaceable member from the first closed position to the second opened position.

26. The container according to claim 25 wherein the housing side waU(s) are made from polypropylene approximately 1-2 mm thick.

27. The container according to claim 26 wherein the peripheral skirt is made from polypropylene approximately 1.8-3.5 mm thick.

28. The container according to claim 27 wherein the activating member and displaceable member are more rigid than the housing so as to reduce warpage, distortion or deformation ofthe housing during movement ofthe displaceable member.

29. The container according to claim 21 further comprising at least one enclosure associated with the top compartment containing at least a third substance, the enclosure adapted and configured to permit controUable release ofthe at least third substance into the container.

30. The container according to claim 21 further comprising at least one dividing waU to further subdivide either the top or bottom compartment into at least two or more separate and independent compartments which release their contents upon movement ofthe displaceable member from the first closed position to the second open position.

31. A method of providing a prefilled multicompartment container having at least two different substances stored in separate compartments which can be readily mixed in the container and dispensed therefrom comprising the steps of: providing a housing having at least one side waU, a top opening and a bottom opening, the side waU having an abutment; providing a displaceable member into the bottom opening ofthe housing, the displaceable member comprising a bottom wall portion having an opening, a peripheral skirt connected to the bottom waU portion adapted and configured to form a seal between the housing and the peripheral skirt, a partition wall, and at least one support member extending between the bottom waU portion and the partition waU configured and adapted so that there is at least one opening between the bottom wall portion and the partition wall, the partition waU adapted and configured to form a Uquid-tight seal with the abutment, the displaceable member adapted and configured to be axially moveable by an external activating member between a first closed position to form at least one top compartment and at least one separate and independent bottom compartment and a second open position wherein the top and bottom compartments communicate; moving the displaceable member to a first closed position to form a top compartment sealed from the bottom compartment; introducing a substance through the opening in the bottom wall portion ofthe displaceable member; sealing the opening in the bottom wall portion of the displaceable member; introducing a second substance into the housing; providing a lid to seal the top opening.

32. The method according to claim 31 further comprising the step of rotating the housing to introduce the second substance through the top opening ofthe housing and thereafter providing a lid to seal the top opening.

33. The method according to claim 31 wherein the Ud is provided on the housing, then the second substance is introduced into the housing from the bottom end and thereafter the displaceable member is moved to the first closed position.

34. The method according to claim 33 wherein the second substance is introduced prior to the displaceable member being provided into the housing bottom opening.

35. The method according to claim 31 further comprising: moving the displaceable member to the second open position such that the first and second substances are mixed and removing the Ud which seals the top opening.

36. The method according to claim 31 further comprising the step of: preparing the Ud with an enclosure which cooperates with the top compartment and is adapted and configured to release a third substance into the container.

37. The method according to claim 31 further comprising the step of providing the top portion ofthe housing with at least one enclosure containing at least a third substance, the enclosure being adapted and configured to permit controllable release of the at least third substance into the container.

38. The method according to claim 37 further comprising the step of releasing the contents ofthe at least one enclosure into the top compartment.

39. The method according to claim 31 further comprising the step of providing the housing with a dividing wall to further subdivide the top or bottom compartments into at least two or more separate and independent compartments when the displaceable member is in the first closed position and the respective top and bottom housing openings are sealed.

40. A thin walled multicompartment container for separately storing at least two different substances, for controUably mixing the different substances in the container and for dispensing the mixed formulation comprising: a) a housing having a side waU(s) approximately 1-2 mm thick, a top end opening and a bottom end opening, the side waU(s) having an abutment; b) a displaceable member adapted and configured to fit within the bottom end opening ofthe housing and moveable between a first closed position to form at least a top compartment for holding a first substance and at least a separate and independent bottom compartment for holding a second substance and a second open position wherein the top and bottom compartments communicate, the displaceable member having a bottom waU portion with an opening, a stopper adapted and configured to fit in and seal the bottom waU portion opening, a peripheral skirt connected to the bottom waU portion and adapted and configured to contact the thin side waU(s) ofthe housing to form a seal, a partition waU and at least one support member extending between the bottom waU portion and the partition wall, the support member adapted and configured to have at least one opening between the bottom waU portion and the partition wall to permit communication between the bottom waU portion opening and the bottom compartment, the partition waU adapted and configured to cooperate with the abutment to form a seal when the displaceable member is located in the first closed position; c) an activating member exterior ofthe housing adapted and configured to controUably move the displaceable member between the first closed position and the second open position; and d) a Ud adapted and configured to seal the top opening ofthe housing, wherein the activating member is more rigid than the housing side waU(s) so as to reduce distortion, warpage or deformation ofthe housing during movement ofthe displaceable member.