COPO DOSADOR E SISTEMA DE LIBERAÇÃO DE FLUIDO MEDICINAL

Abstract

MEDICINAL FLUID DISPENSING CUPS AND DELIVERY SYSTEMS. This is a medical fluid dispensing cup comprising a base wall, a side wall, a first gripping portion, and a second gripping portion. The side wall extends from the base wall to an upper edge, thus defining a receiving volume for medical fluid. The first gripping portion is formed at a first position on the side wall. The second gripping portion is formed at a second position on the side wall opposite the first position on the other side of the receiving volume for medical fluid. Each of the first gripping portions and the second gripping portion includes one or more anti-nesting projections extending from an outer surface of the side wall to a distance beyond an inner diameter of the upper edge.

Description

1 / 35 Measuring cup and medical fluid delivery system FIELD OF TECHNIQUE

[0001] This descriptive report refers generally to dispensing cups for the delivery of a medicinal fluid and, more specifically, to dispensing cups and medicinal fluid delivery systems that include anti-nesting features and / or integral retention features. BACKGROUND

[0002] Medicinal fluids may be supplied in a bottle that includes a dosing cup for dispensing an appropriate dosage to a user. During manufacturing, dosing cups may become nested within one another, which can disrupt process flows as nested dosing cups can interfere with packaging processes, leading to production inefficiencies. Additionally, once the dosing cup is dispensed to the consumer, it can often be difficult to read due to the layout, text type, text size, and / or wetting of the dosage marking areas formed inside the dosing cup. Furthermore, the dosing cup can be easily lost, which may lead consumers to use unapproved measuring devices to measure the dosage.

[0003] Consequently, there is a need for alternative dosing cups and medicinal fluid delivery systems to deal with the above problems. SUMMARY

[0004] In one embodiment, a dispensing cup for the delivery of medicinal fluid includes a base wall, a side wall, a first gripping portion, and a second gripping portion. The side wall extends from the base wall. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 6 / 89 2 / 35 base to an upper edge, thus defining a receiving volume for medicinal fluid. The first prehension portion is formed at a first position on the sidewall. The second prehension portion is formed at a second position on the sidewall opposite the first position on the other side of the receiving volume for medicinal fluid. Each of the first prehension portions and the second prehension portions includes one or more anti-nesting projections that extend from an outer surface of the sidewall for a distance beyond an inner diameter of the upper edge.

[0005] In another embodiment, a medicinal fluid delivery system includes a bottle and a dispensing cup configured to engage in a releasable manner to a portion of the bottle. The dispensing cup includes a base wall, a side wall, a first gripping portion, and a second gripping portion. The side wall extends from the base wall to an upper edge, thus defining a medicinal fluid receiving volume. The first gripping portion is formed at a first position on the side wall. The second gripping portion is formed at a second position on the side wall opposite the first position on the other side of the medicinal fluid receiving volume. Each of the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion includes one or more anti-nesting projections that extend from an outer surface of the side wall for a distance beyond an inner diameter of the upper edge.

[0006] In yet another embodiment, a medicinal fluid delivery system includes a bottle and a dosing cup configured to engage in a releasable manner to a portion of the bottle. The dosing cup includes a base wall, Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 7 / 89 3 / 35 a side wall, a first gripping portion, a second gripping portion, and one or more retention spheres. The side wall extends from the base wall to an upper edge, thus defining a receiving volume of medicinal fluid. The side wall includes a first offset that defines a first volume and a second offset that defines a second volume. The first gripping portion is formed at a first position on the side wall. The second gripping portion is formed at a second position on the side wall opposite the first position on the other side of the receiving volume of medicinal fluid. One or more retention spheres are formed on an inner surface of the side wall opposite both the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion, with one or more retention spheres configured to engage releasably with the bottle portion to secure the dosing cup to the bottle.

[0007] These features and the additional features provided by the embodiments described in the present invention will be more fully understood in view of the detailed description that follows together with the drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The embodiments shown in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature, and are not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, where similar structures are indicated with similar reference numbers, and in which: Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 8 / 89 4 / 35

[0009] Figure 1A represents a top perspective view of a dispensing cup for the release of a medicinal fluid, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0010] a Figure 1B represents a perspective view of the back of the measuring cup in Figure 1A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0011] Figure 1C represents a front view of the measuring cup in Figure 1A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0012] a Figure 1D represents a side view of the measuring cup in Figure 1A showing a gripping portion, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0013] a Figure 1E represents a cross-section taken along line EE of Figure 1C, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0014] Figure 1F represents a cross-section taken along line FF of Figure 1D, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0015] Figure 1G represents a bottom view of a base wall of the cup of Figure 1A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0016] a Figure 1H represents a top view of a medicinal fluid receiving volume of the cup of Figure 1A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0017] Figure 2 represents a measuring cup with an alternative gripping portion, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 9 / 89 5 / 35

[0018] a Figure 3 represents a measuring cup with an alternative gripping portion, according to other embodiments shown and described herein;

[0019] a Figure 4A represents two measuring cups in a stacked arrangement, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0020] a Figure 4B represents a cross-section of the two measuring cups in Figure 4A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein;

[0021] Figure 5A represents a perspective view of a bottle with a measuring cup attached to it, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein; and

[0022] Figure 5B represents a cross-section of the bottle and measuring cup in Figure 5A, according to one or more embodiments shown and described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to dispensing cups for the delivery of a medicinal fluid and to medicinal fluid delivery systems. In general, dispensing cups and medicinal fluid delivery systems, as described herein, include structures such as anti-nesting features to prevent nesting of dispensing cups during manufacture, visual and / or tactile aids in determining appropriate dosage amounts, and / or retaining spheres that enable the dispensing cup to be removablely attached to a bottle (e.g., as a cap or bottle closure) of the medicinal fluid delivery system. For example, and generally with reference to Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 10 / 89 6 / 35 Figures 1A to 1H, in at least one embodiment, a dispensing cup for medicinal fluid includes a base wall, a side wall, a first gripping portion, and a second gripping portion. The side wall extends from the base wall to an upper edge, thus defining a medicinal fluid receiving volume. The first gripping portion is formed at a first position on the side wall. The second gripping portion is formed at a second position on the side wall opposite the first position on the other side of the medicinal fluid receiving volume. Each of the first gripping portions and the second gripping portion includes one or more anti-nesting projections that extend from an outer surface of the side wall for a distance beyond an inner diameter of the upper edge.The anti-nesting projections are configured to engage the top edge of a second dispensing cup to prevent the dispensing cup from nesting within the second dispensing cup. As will be described in more detail below, the anti-nesting features can improve the manufacturability of the medicine fluid delivery system. These features and additional features will be discussed in more detail with reference to the drawings below.

[0024] As used herein, the term measuring cup refers to any structure used to measure and administer a medicinal fluid.

[0025] As used herein, the term medicinal fluid may refer to any fluid used for the relief of symptoms, the treatment and / or prevention of disease, illness or similar conditions and / or recovery from disease, illness or Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 11 / 89 7 / 35 similar. Medicinal fluids may include, but are not limited to, flu and / or cold medicine, headache medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, mouthwashes, dietary supplements, etc.

[0026] As used herein, the term removablely attached, removablely fixed, removablely coupled or similar terminology, refers to the ability of the measuring cup to be non-permanently attached to a portion of a bottle (e.g. a bottle cap and / or closure) and removed from it in a repeatable manner.

[0027] Now with reference to Figures 1A to 1H, a dosing cup 100 is generically represented. The dosing cup 100 is configured to enable a user to measure and administer a dosage of medicinal fluid. The dosing cup 100 can be made of any material and can be injection molded, for example. In some embodiments, the dosing cup 100 is made of a plastic material, such as clarified polypropylene. In other embodiments, the dosing cup 100 can be made of glass, porcelain, polystyrene or similar materials. The dosing cup 100 generally includes a base wall 102, a side wall 104 and an upper rim 106. The side wall 104 extends from the base wall 102 to the upper rim 106, thus defining a medicinal fluid receiving volume 108.The measuring cup 100 can be generically cylindrical, as shown, or it can have alternative prismatic geometric shapes (e.g., triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, several portions of the side wall 104 can be inclined, so that a diameter in cross-section of the side wall 104 is taken. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 12 / 89 8 / 35 near the base wall 102, may be less than the cross-sectional diameter of the side wall 104, taken near the upper edge 106 of the side wall 104. The slope may be gradual or, as will be described in more detail below, interrupted by one or more offsets (for example, a first offset 120 and a second offset 124).

[0028] The base wall 102 can generally provide a stable base for the dispensing cup 100 to be balanced. For example, the base wall 102 can be stably positioned on a flat surface, such as a tabletop, to enable a user to pour a medicinal fluid into the receiving volume of medicinal fluid 108. The base wall 102 may include one or more recessed portions 112 so that only a lower edge 114 of the dispensing cup 100 can contact a flat surface if positioned on it. In some embodiments, the base wall 102, for example the recessed portion 112, may include a textured surface 113 (for example a roughened surface).The textured surface 113 may cover a percentage area of ​​the base wall 102 or the recessed portion 112, for example, about 10% or more, about 20% or more, about 30% or more, about 40% or more, about 50% or more, about 60% or more, about 70% or more, about 80% or more, about 90% or more. In some embodiments, the textured surface 113 may have a shape such as, for example, a circle, oval, palette, egg, triangle, square, rectangle, or any regular or irregular polygonal or non-polygonal shape. The shape of the textured surface 113 may also correspond to a mark. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 13 / 89 9 / 35 registered, a product symbol or logo. In some embodiments, the textured surface 113 may include manufacturer marking areas to provide the consumer with a manufacturer indicator. During injection molding, the formation of the textured surface 113 on the base wall 102 (e.g., the recessed portion 112) may provide easier release of the dosing cup 100 from the mold.

[0029] The upper rim 106 generally defines the open top of the dosing cup 100 which provides access to the receiving volume of medicinal fluid 108. With reference to Figures 1E and 1F, the upper rim 106 may define an inner rim diameter, di, and an outer rim diameter, do, which is larger than the inner rim diameter, di. In embodiments, the outer rim diameter, do, extends beyond the side wall 104 of the dosing cup 100. The upper rim 106 may curve towards the base wall 102 of the dosing cup 100, which may provide additional safety to the person holding the dosing cup 100 and / or a more comfortable interface from which to drink from the dosing cup 100.Although the measuring cup 100 can be of any size, for some embodiments, the measuring cup 100 may have an outer rim diameter, do, of about 40 mm to about 50 mm (e.g., about 45 mm) and an inner rim diameter, di, of about 35 mm to about 45 mm (e.g., about 40 mm).

[0030] The side wall 104 may include an outer surface 105 and an inner surface 107. As noted above, the side wall 104 may be inclined so that a diameter of the inside of the measuring cup 100 increases from the base wall 102 to the upper edge 106. As noted above, the side wall Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 14 / 89 10 / 35 104 can further define one or more offsets to provide a flower vase shape to the measuring cup 100. An offset refers to a sudden increase in the diameter of the measuring cup 100 such that a visual and / or tactile interruption of the angular coefficient of the external and / or internal surfaces 105, 107 is formed. For example, the side wall 104 may include a first offset 120 that defines a first volume 122 and a second offset 124 that defines a second volume 126 larger than the first volume 122. That is, the first offset 120 may be formed at a first height, h1, from the base wall 102, and the second offset 124 may be formed at a second height, h2, from the base wall 102 that is greater than the first height.It should be mentioned that the measuring cup 100 can be of any size; for some embodiments, the first offset 120 can be positioned at a first height, h1, of about 10 mm to about 20 mm (e.g., about 15 mm) and the second offset 124 can be positioned at a second height, h2, of about 20 mm to about 30 mm (e.g., about 28 mm).

[0031] It should be mentioned that, in some embodiments, the first and second offsets 120, 124 may be equal in depth or the first and second offsets 120, 124 may have different depths (for example, the offset depth, d1, which corresponds to the first offset 120 and the offset depth, d2, which corresponds to the second offset 124) as shown in 1F. For example, a depth of the first offset 120 may be on a scale of about 0.05 mm to about 0.15 mm (for example about 0.09 mm) while Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 15 / 89 11 / 35 that the depth of the second 124 offset can be from about 0.25 mm to about 0.35 mm (for example, about 0.3 mm). That is, in some modalities, the second 124 offset can have a depth about 3 times greater than the first 120 offset. However, other offset depth ratios are contemplated and possible.

[0032] As noted above, the measuring cup 100 can be used for measuring medicinal fluid. One or more offsets can provide an indication of a specific volume or dosage quantity of medicinal fluid to be administered. For example, the first offset 120 may correspond to a first dosage quantity of 15 ml, while the second offset 124 may correspond to a second dosage quantity of 30 ml. However, other volumes are contemplated and possible in order to provide appropriate dosages for any specific medicinal fluid. The first offset 120 and the second offset 124 may provide a shelf on the inner surface 107 that acts as a visual indication to enable a user to measure the appropriate volume of medicinal fluid. That is, the medicinal fluid can be poured into the measuring cup 100 until the medicinal fluid level aligns with the first offset 120 or the second offset 124.Using the first 120° spacing and the second 124° spacing as indicators of medicinal fluid volume can allow a user to more easily measure the appropriate volume of medicinal fluid.

[0033] For example, users can fill and measure medicinal fluid in measuring cups in various ways. Some consumers may hold the measuring cup 100 with one hand and pour the medicinal fluid with the other hand while watching. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 16 / 89 12 / 35 the exterior of the measuring cup 100 during measurement. Others may place the measuring cup 100 on a rigid surface (e.g., a table or counter) and measure the medicinal fluid with a view of the interior of the measuring cup 100 from above. The first offset 120 and the second offset 124 allow the dosage volume to be read from above or from the side.

[0034] Conventional measuring cups may have dosage marking areas on the inner surface 107 of the measuring cup 100 (e.g., markings by grinding or recesses). However, such conventional internal marking areas may be difficult to reach, particularly when the measuring cup 100 is filled with medicinal fluid. For example, the medicinal fluid may camouflage or wet the conventional marking areas, making them difficult to read. External marking areas may also be difficult to read due to the size, font, color, and / or texture of such marking areas. The first offset 120 and the second offset 124, on the other hand, allow for easy reading of the dosage volume from above or from the side.For example, as light enters the measuring cup, it may be refracted as it passes through the first and / or second 120, 124 offsets, which may allow a user to more easily see the dosage indication provided by the first and / or second 120, 124 offsets.

[0035] Additionally, the first offset 120 and the second offset 124 may allow the measuring cup 100 to have a reduced wall thickness compared to a measuring cup without one or more offsets. In particular, the first offset 120 and the second Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 17 / 89 13 / 35 offset 124 can provide enhanced circular strength to the dispensing cup 100, enabling a reduced wall thickness. For example, the dispensing cup 100 can have a wall thickness less than about 0.8 mm (e.g., about 0.5 mm). Additionally, the first offset 120 and the second offset 124 can provide evidence of further tampering. For example, during the manufacture of a medicinal fluid delivery system, the dispensing cup 100 is often shrink-wrapped onto a bottle 201 carrying the medicinal fluid. The distinct shape of the first offset 120 and then the second offset 124 can be visible through the shrink film to enable a user to know that the correct dispensing cup is attached to the correct bottle and that no tampering has occurred.Additionally, the first and second offsets 120, 124 can provide stress concentration points on the shrink film, making the shrink film more prone to tearing at the first and / or second offset 120, 124 when the measuring cup 100 is removed from the bottle in an attempt to tamper with it.

[0036] Additional dosage marking areas may also be provided on the outer surface 105 of the side wall 104. For example, a dosage quantity indicator 127 may be formed on the outer surface 105 of the side wall 104 (e.g., by molding, grinding, carving, printing or similar). In the illustrated example, the dosage quantity indicator 127 may include numerical indicators 128 and / or directional indicators 129. For example, 15 ml may be formed on the outer surface 105 of the side wall 104 and may include one or more arrows pointing to the Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 18 / 89 14 / 35 first offset 120 to indicate a dosage quantity of 15 ml. Similarly, above the first offset 120 there may be another dosage quantity indicator 127 which includes 30 ml formed on the outer surface 105 of the side wall 104, and may include one or more arrows pointing to the second offset 124 to indicate a dosage quantity of 30 ml. By providing the dosage quantity indicator 127 on the outer surface 105 of the measuring cup 100, the dosage quantity indicator 127 is prevented from becoming wet by the medicinal fluid, which could otherwise make the dosage quantity indicators 127 more difficult to see.Additionally, it should be mentioned that where dosage quantity indicators 127 are formed on an inner surface 107 of the measuring cup 100, such marking areas tend to encourage fluid retention, so that fluid becomes trapped within or in the inner marking areas, which may prevent the administration of a complete dose. Consequently, it is beneficial to have the inner surface 107 of the measuring cup 100 substantially free of dosage marking areas beyond the first offset 120 and the second offset 124, described above.

[0037] With reference to Figures 1A, 1B and 1D, on the lateral wall 104, there may be a first gripping portion 130a formed at a first position 116 of the lateral wall 104 and a second gripping portion 130b formed at a second position 118 of the lateral wall 104 opposite the first position 116 on the other side of the medicinal fluid receiving volume 108. The first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b may be substantially identical to each other and may be Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 19 / 89 15 / 35 positioned directly opposite each other (i.e., 180 degrees from each other) to encourage or cause a user to hold at least two points on the measuring cup 180 degrees from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the dosage quantity indicator 127 can be positioned between the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b (for example, at 90 degrees between the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b) to enable a user to have a clear view of the dosage marking areas when held in the user's hand. The first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b can improve the ergonomics of the measuring cup 100 for retaining, measuring and / or administering the medicinal fluid. The first grip portion 130a and the second grip portion 130b can provide tactile feedback to a user that they are holding the measuring cup 100 correctly for optimal use.The first grip portion 130a and the second grip portion 130b can also improve the gripping capacity of the measuring cup 100 and help prevent the measuring cup 100 from slipping from a user's fingers.

[0038] The first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b may include, for example, a textured surface 134 (e.g., a rough and / or patterned surface) and / or a plurality of gripping projections 131 formed on an outer surface 105 of the side wall 104. The plurality of gripping projections 131 may be flanges projecting from the outer surface 105 of the side wall 104. The plurality of gripping projections 131 may extend along the outer surface 105 of the side wall 104 Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 20 / 89 16 / 35 between the upper edge 106 and the base wall 102. In some embodiments, the projections of the plurality of gripping projections 131 may have different lengths to provide variable or gradient length along the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b. For example, the plurality of gripping projections 131 may define a gradient length that has a maximum length at a center of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b and a decreasing length outward from the center of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b. For example, the plurality of projections may have a maximum length that extends through the first offset 120 (e.g., about 25 mm or less, about 22 mm or less, about 20 mm or less, about mm or more, about 15 mm or more, about 20 mm or more, etc.)., from the upper surface 109 of the upper edge 106). Additionally, the plurality of gripping projections 131 may include a width, w. The width, w, of each of the gripping projections 131 may be constant along the length of each gripping projection or the width, w, may be tapered. For example, a width at the base of a projection may be narrower than a width of the projection near the upper edge 106. In some embodiments, the width of each gripping projection may be about 2 mm or less, for example about 1 mm or less. In some embodiments, the plurality of gripping projections 131 may have widths different from each other.

[0039] The plurality of prehension projections 131, together with or without any texturing applied, can Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 21 / 89 17 / 35 provide a general shape to the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b. For example, the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b may have a palette shape, generally circular (e.g., see Figure 2), generally rectangular (e.g., see Figure 3) or any other regular or irregular polygonal or non-polygonal shape. In some embodiments, the first and second gripping portions 130a, 130b may have the shape of a symbol, logo or similar.Although it should be mentioned that the first and second gripping portions 130a, 130b can be of any size, the first and second gripping portions 130a, 130b can each form a portion of the total surface area of ​​the side wall 104 of the measuring cup 100 (for example, about 5% or more, about 10% or more, about 15% or more, about 20% or more, about 30% or more, about 50% or less, about 40% or less, from about 5% to about 20%, from about 8% to about 15%, from about 10% to about 12%, etc.). It should be mentioned that, in several embodiments, the size of the first and second grip portions 130a, 130b is large enough to enable a user to hold the measuring cup 100 while still enabling a user to see the dosing marking areas (e.g., the one or more offsets and / or other dosing marking areas) between the first and second grip portions 130a, 130b.That is, a portion of the side wall 104 that extends between the first and second gripping portions 130a, 130b may define a dosing region where the dosing marking areas can be observed. It should be mentioned, however, that... Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 22 / 89 18 / 35 if the first and second gripping portions 130a, 130b are too small (for example, if the first or second gripping portion is less than about 5% of the total surface area of ​​the side wall 104 of the measuring cup 100), the first and second gripping portions 130a, 130b may inadvertently create stress concentration points that may tear any shrink film (for example, for tamper prevention) that may be applied during manufacturing.

[0040] With reference to Figure 1E, the plurality of gripping projections 131 can be tapered so that the plurality of gripping projections 131 extends further (i.e., has a greater depth) from the side wall 104 of the dispensing cup 100 at a base of the plurality of gripping projections 131 and then smoothly tapered to be level with the side wall 104 at the top of the plurality of gripping projections 131 below the upper edge 106. For example, the plurality of gripping projections 131 can have a maximum depth of about 1 mm or less, 0.5 mm or less, etc.

[0041] In embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of grip projections 131 extends to the first offset 120. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of grip projections extends beyond the first offset 120. For example, a central grip projection 132 may extend through both the first offset 120 and the second offset 124. Again with reference to Figure 1D, the plurality of grip projections 131 may be spaced from each other (e.g., about 3 mm or less, about 2 mm or less, Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 23 / 89 19 / 35 etc.) to define the spacing between each of the plurality of gripping projections 131. Such spacing may cause a user's fingers, when holding the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b, to deform or interlace within the plurality of gripping projections 131 to provide a more secure grip. The plurality of gripping projections 131 may include two or more gripping projections, three or more gripping projections, four or more gripping projections, etc.

[0042] The first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b may additionally include one or more anti-nesting projections 140 extending from an outer surface 105 of the sidewall 104 beyond the inner diameter, di, of the upper rim 106. As will be described in more detail below, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 may prevent the measuring cup 100 from nesting within a second measuring cup 100b such that friction between the measuring cup 100 and the second measuring cup 100b causes the measuring cup 100 to adhere to the second measuring cup 100b. This can be especially important during manufacturing, when many measuring cups may be positioned in a release container together to be assembled onto the bottle 201. Nested measuring cups can result in manufacturing errors or assembly stalling.Consequently, providing one or more 140 anti-nesting projections can prevent unwanted nesting and increase manufacturing efficiency.

[0043] Conventional anti-nesting features may include ribs positioned along an inner surface 107 of the side wall 104 of the measuring cup. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 24 / 89 20 / 35 100. However, the placement of ribs along the inner surface 107 may result in undesirable fluid retention, which may prevent the administration of a complete dose to a user or cause an increased drying time after rinsing the measuring cup 100. Consequently, placing one or more anti-nesting projections 140 on the outer surface 105 of the measuring cup 100 allows the inner surface 107 of the measuring cup 100 to remain smoother, which increases dosing accuracy and drying time after rinsing. The measuring cup 100 may be substantially free of anti-nesting projections and / or ribs along the inner surface 107 of the side wall 104.

[0044] One or more anti-nesting projections 140 may be flanges, similar to the plurality of gripping projections 131, projecting from the outer surface 105 of the side wall 104. One or more anti-nesting projections 140 may project further from the outer surface 105 of the side wall 104 than the plurality of gripping projections 131, as illustrated in Figure 1E. Similar to the plurality of gripping projections 131, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 may be tapered so that the depth of one or more anti-nesting projections 140 is greater at the base of one or more anti-nesting projections 140 and less at the top of one or more anti-nesting projections 140. For example, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 may have a maximum depth, dan, between about 1 mm and about 2 mm (for example, about 1.2 mm).One or more anti-nesting projections 140 may have a width similar to that of one or more gripping projections 131 (for example, approximately. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 25 / 89 21 / 35 mm or less, for example, about 1 mm or less). In some embodiments, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 are interspersed between the plurality of gripping projections 131 so as to be camouflaged in the plurality of gripping projections 131.

[0045] Figures 4A and 4B illustrate a first dosing cup 100a and a second dosing cup 100b identical to the first dosing cup 100a, except that the second dosing cup 100b is positioned in a portion of the medicinal fluid receiving volume 108 of the first dosing cup 100a. In the illustrated embodiment, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 of the second dosing cup 100b are engaged with the top surface 109 of the upper edge 106 and prevent the second dosing cup 100b from becoming fully nested in the first dosing cup 100a. For example, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 prevent the second measuring cup 100b from being inserted into the first measuring cup 100a so that the friction between the first measuring cup 100a and the second measuring cup 100b causes the measuring cup 100 to adhere to the second measuring cup 100b.

[0046] As noted above, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 of each of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b may extend a distance beyond an inner diameter of the upper edge 106 from an outer surface 105 of the side wall 104, while remaining within the outer diameter, , of the upper edge 106. Consequently, the second measuring cup 100b is positioned in the first measuring cup 100a, a level of interference may exist between the upper edge 106 of the first measuring cup Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 26 / 89 22 / 35 100a and one or more anti-nesting projections 140 of the second measuring cup 100b. Such interference can be defined as the amount of overlap that one or more anti-nesting projections 140 extend over the upper edge 106 of the first measuring cup 100a. For example, the overlap may be between about 10% and about 50%, between about 20% and about 40%, greater than about 10%, greater than about 20%, greater than about 30%, or any desired overlap. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 may overlap between about 0.7 mm and 0.8 mm from the upper edge 106 of the first measuring cup 100a, which is sufficient to prevent nesting of the second measuring cup 100b in the first measuring cup 100a.

[0047] Again with reference to Figures 1A, 1B and 1C, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 of each of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b may be positioned directly opposite each other on the other side of the receiving volume of medicinal fluid. In some embodiments, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b each include at least two anti-nesting projections including a first anti-nesting projection 142a and a second anti-nesting projection 142b. As noted above, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 may be interleaved between the plurality of gripping projections 131, such that the first anti-nesting projection 142a and the second anti-nesting projection 142b are separated by at least one gripping projection (e.g., the central gripping projection 132). One or more anti-nesting projections 140 Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 27 / 89 23 / 35 may additionally function as and appear to be a gripping projection of the plurality of gripping projections 131. Providing the anti-nesting projections 140 within the plurality of gripping projections 131 may camouflage one or more anti-nesting projections 140 to provide a more aesthetically pleasing and comfortable grip.

[0048] Additionally, two anti-nesting projections 140 can assist in the application of the aforementioned tamper-evident shrink film. A single anti-nesting projection on each side can lead to undesirable force concentrations in the shrink film, which could lead to the shrink film breaking and inadvertently indicate tampering. However, a single anti-nesting projection on each of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b is contemplated and possible since it is greater than two anti-nesting projections on each of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b.

[0049] One or more anti-nesting projections 140 may be directly fixed to a surface on the lower side 110 of the upper edge 106 and extend along the side wall 104 of the dispensing cup 100 to a length lan. For example, one or more gripping portions may have a length, lan, that extends along at least 50% of the total height of the dispensing cup 100 (for example, about 58% or 21.4 mm based on a dispensing cup having a total height of 36.9 mm). In some embodiments, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 may extend to the first offset 120. With reference to Figures 4A and 4B, one or more anti-nesting projections 140 may be long Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 28 / 89 24 / 35 sufficient, so as to prevent the second measuring cup 100b from extending or coming into contact with one or more retaining spheres 150 formed on an inner surface 107 of the side wall 104 of the cup. The one or more retaining spheres 150 are discussed in more detail below.

[0050] Again with reference to Figures 1A to 1H, one or more retaining spheres 150 may be formed on an inner surface 107 of the side wall 104 opposite both the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b. That is, one or more retaining spheres 150 may be camouflaged from view by the first and second gripping portions 130a, 130b and are positioned so as not to interfere with the reading of the dosage quantity indicators 127. One or more retaining spheres 150 are configured to engage in a releasable manner to a portion of a bottle 201 (for example to a cap or closure of a bottle 201) to secure the measuring cup 100 to the bottle 201 (for example to a cap or closure of the bottle 201). One or more retaining spheres 150 can make it convenient for a user to store the measuring cup 100 in the bottle 201, so as not to lose the measuring cup 100.

[0051] In some embodiments, the one or more retention spheres 150 may include a plurality of spheres behind each of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b or a single sphere behind each of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b. An advantage of positioning the retention spheres 150 behind the gripping portions is that the retention spheres 150 will not interfere with the user's ability to read the dosage marking areas. For example, only one Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 29 / 89 A single retaining sphere 150 can be positioned behind each of the first gripping portion 130a and the second gripping portion 130b. The retaining sphere 150 can be an elongated sphere extending along the inner surface 107 of the side wall 104 in a direction generally parallel to the upper edge 106 of the dispensing cup 100. Although one or more retaining spheres 150 can be of any size, in some embodiments, one or more retaining spheres 150 can have a width, wr, between about 8 mm and about 14 mm (e.g., about 12 mm), as illustrated in Figure 1F.

[0052] One or more retaining spheres 150 may include a first surface 151 extending from the inner surface 107 of the side wall 104 and a second surface 152 extending from the inner surface 107 of the side wall 104 in a position below the first surface 151 and which intersects with the first surface 151. The first surface 151 and the second surface 152 can transition smoothly to the side wall 104 so as not to provide any structure against which the medicinal fluid can be retained. The second surface 152 can be angled with respect to a horizontal geometric axis, x, passing through the intersection point at an angle, θ2, greater than an angle, θ1, of the first surface 151. That is, the slope of the second surface 152 (e.g., about 40 degrees or more, about 60 degrees or more, etc.) can be greater than the slope of the first surface 151 (e.g., about 10 degrees or more, about 15 degrees or more, about 20 degrees or more, etc.). In other embodiments, the slopes can be equal to each other, or the first slope can be greater than the second. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 30 / 89 26 / 35 second angular coefficient. One or more retaining spheres 150 may also have any height. However, in some embodiments, the height, hr, of one or more retaining spheres 150 may be between about 2 mm and about 3 mm (for example about 2.5 mm), as illustrated in Figure 1F.

[0053] It should be mentioned that, although one or more retaining spheres 150 are positioned above the first offset 120 and below the second offset 124, one or more retaining spheres 150 may be positioned below the first offset 120 or above the second offset depending on the shape and / or dimensions of the bottle 201 to which the measuring cup 100 is attached. One or more retaining spheres 150 may be arranged in a middle portion of the inner surface 107 of the side wall 104 in a position configured to engage with the edge of a bottle cap in order to secure the measuring cup to the bottle.

[0054] Figure 5A represents a medicinal fluid delivery system 200 including a bottle 201 and the dosing cup 100, described above. The bottle 201 is configured to store a medicinal fluid. The dosing cup 100 is shown as attached to the bottle 201. With reference to Figure 5B, a cross-section of the bottle 201 in the dosing cup 100 is shown. As shown, the bottle 201 includes a neck 202 and a nozzle 204 connected to the neck 202 through which the medicinal fluid can be dispensed. Attached to the neck 202 is a bottle cap 208. The bottle cap 208 may be a threaded bottle cap that engages with a thread formed in the nozzle 204. When positioned over the bottle 201, one or more retaining spheres 150 enable the dosing cup 100 Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 31 / 89 27 / 35 is fitted and removed by pressure from a portion of the bottle 201 to selectively attach the measuring cup 100 to the bottle 201. For example, one or more retaining spheres 150 may engage with the edge of the bottle cap 208. In other words, one or more retaining spheres 150 may extend around an edge 209 of the bottle cap 208, so that the measuring cup 100 is held in place relative to the bottle cap 208 by one or more retaining spheres 150. In embodiments, the flexibility of the measuring cup 100 enables one or more retaining spheres 150 of the cup to deform elastically to enable one or more retaining spheres 150 to fit into or be removed by pressure from the bottle cap 208. The second inclined surface 142 of one or more retaining spheres 150 may enable the A user can easily guide the measuring cup 100 out of the bottle cap 208.

[0055] It should now be understood that the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to dispensing cups for the delivery of a medicinal fluid and to medicinal fluid delivery systems. In general, dispensing cups and medicinal fluid delivery systems, as described herein, include structures such as anti-nesting features for preventing nesting of dispensing cups during manufacture, gripping features for holding and guiding the dispensing cup, visual aids for determining appropriate dosage amounts, and / or retaining spheres that enable the dispensing cup to be removablely attached to a body of the medicinal fluid delivery system. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 32 / 89 28 / 35

[0056] The modalities can be described with reference to the following numbered clauses, with preferential resources presented in the dependent clauses.

[0057] 1. A dispensing cup for dispensing a medicinal fluid, wherein the dispensing cup comprises: a base wall; a side wall extending from the base wall to an upper edge, thus defining a receiving volume of medicinal fluid; a first gripping portion formed at a first position on the side wall; and a second gripping portion formed at a second position on the side wall opposite the first position on the other side of the receiving volume of medicinal fluid, wherein each of the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion comprises one or more anti-nesting projections extending from an outer surface of the side wall for a distance beyond an inner diameter of the upper edge.

[0058] 2. The measuring cup of clause 1, wherein one or more anti-nesting projections of the first gripping portion and of the second gripping portion comprise at least two anti-nesting projections.

[0059] 3. The measuring cup of clause 1 or 2, wherein: each of the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion additionally comprises a plurality of gripping projections; and one or more anti-nesting projections are interspersed between the plurality of gripping projections.

[0060] 4. The measuring cup of clause 3, wherein the plurality of gripping projections defines a gradient length that has a maximum length at a center of Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 33 / 89 29 / 35 first gripping portion and second gripping portion and a decreasing length outward from the center of the first gripping portion and second gripping portion.

[0061] 5. The measuring cup of clause 3 or 4, wherein one or more anti-nesting projections extend further from the outer surface of the side wall than the plurality of gripping projections.

[0062] 6. The measuring cup of any preceding clause, wherein one or more anti-nesting projections extend from the upper edge along the side wall to at least half the height of the measuring cup.

[0063] 7. The measuring cup of any preceding clause, wherein one or more anti-nesting projections prevent the measuring cup from becoming nested within a second measuring cup, so that friction between the measuring cup and the second measuring cup causes the measuring cup to adhere to the second measuring cup.

[0064] 8. The measuring cup of any preceding clause, which further comprises one or more retaining spheres formed on an inner surface of the side wall opposite both the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion, wherein the one or more retaining spheres are configured to engage in a releasable manner with a portion of a bottle to secure the measuring cup to the bottle.

[0065] 9. The measuring cup of clause 8, each of which one or more retaining spheres comprises: a first surface extending from the inner surface of the side wall; and a second surface extending from the inner surface of the side wall in Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 34 / 89 30 / 35 a position below the first surface and intersecting with the first surface, where: the second surface is angled with respect to a horizontal geometric axis at an angle greater than the first surface.

[0066] 10. A medicinal fluid delivery system comprising: a bottle; and a dosing cup configured to engage in a releasable manner to a portion of the bottle, wherein the dosing cup comprises: a base wall; a side wall extending from the base wall to an upper edge, thus defining a medicinal fluid receiving volume; a first gripping portion formed at a first position on the side wall; and a second gripping portion formed at a second position on the side wall opposite the first position on the other side of the medicinal fluid receiving volume, wherein each of the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion comprises one or more anti-nesting projections extending from an outer surface of the side wall for a distance beyond an inner diameter of the upper edge.

[0067] 11. The medicinal fluid delivery system of clause 10, wherein one or more anti-nesting projections of the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion comprise at least two anti-nesting projections.

[0068] 12. The medicinal fluid delivery system of clause 10 or 11, wherein: each of the first prehension portion and the second prehension portion additionally comprises a plurality of prehension projections; and Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 35 / 89 31 / 35 to one or more anti-nesting projections are interspersed among the plurality of grasping projections.

[0069] 13. The medicinal fluid delivery system of clause 12, wherein the plurality of grasping projections defines a gradient length that has a maximum length at the center of the first grasping portion and the second grasping portion and a decreasing length outward from the center of the first grasping portion and the second grasping portion.

[0070] 14. The medicinal fluid delivery system of clause 12 or 13, wherein one or more anti-nesting projections extend further from the outer surface of the side wall than the plurality of gripping projections.

[0071] 15. The medicinal fluid delivery system of any of clauses 10 to 14, wherein: the bottle comprises a bottle cap; and the dosing cup further comprises one or more retaining spheres formed on an inner surface of the side wall opposite both the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion, wherein the one or more retaining spheres are configured to engage in a releasable manner with the bottle cap to secure the dosing cup to the bottle.

[0072] 16. The medicinal fluid delivery system of clause 15, wherein each of one or more retention spheres comprises: a first surface extending from the inner surface of the side wall; and a second surface extending from the inner surface of the side wall at a position below the first surface and intersecting the first surface, wherein: the second Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 36 / 89 Surface 32 / 35 is angled relative to a horizontal geometric axis at a greater angle than the first surface.

[0073] 17. A medicinal fluid delivery system comprising: a bottle; and a dosing cup configured to engage in a releasable manner to a portion of the bottle, wherein the dosing cup comprises: a base wall; a side wall extending from the base wall to an upper edge, thus defining a medicinal fluid receiving volume, wherein the side wall comprises: a first offset defining a first volume; and a second offset defining a second volume; a first gripping portion formed at a first position on the side wall and a second gripping portion formed at a second position on the side wall opposite the first position on the other side of the medicinal fluid receiving volume;and one or more retaining spheres formed on an inner surface of the side wall opposite both the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion, wherein one or more retaining spheres are configured to engage in a releasable manner with the bottle portion to secure the measuring cup to the bottle.

[0074] 18. The medicinal fluid delivery system of clause 17, wherein each of the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion comprises one or more anti-nesting projections extending from an outer surface of the side wall for a distance beyond an inner diameter of the upper edge.

[0075] 19. The medicinal fluid delivery system of clause 17 or 18, which additionally comprises a dosage quantity indicator. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 37 / 89 33 / 35 positioned on the side wall between the first gripping portion and the second gripping portion.

[0076] 20. The medicinal fluid delivery system of any of clauses 17 to 19, each of which one or more retention spheres comprises: a first surface extending from the inner surface of the side wall; and a second surface extending from the inner surface of the side wall at a position below the first surface and intersecting the first surface, wherein: the second surface is angled with respect to a horizontal geometric axis at an angle greater than the first surface.

[0077] It should be mentioned that the terms substantially and about can be used in the present invention to represent the inherent degree of uncertainty that can be attributed to any comparison, value, measurement, or other quantitative representation. These terms are also used in the present invention to represent the degree to which a quantitative representation can vary from an established reference without resulting in an alteration in the basic function of the matter in question.

[0078] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​mentioned. Instead, except where otherwise specified, each of these dimensions is intended to mean both the value mentioned and a range of functionally equivalent values ​​around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as 40 mm is intended to mean approximately 40 mm. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 38 / 89 34 / 35

[0079] The values ​​presented in this document as range endings should not be understood as strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​mentioned. Instead, except where otherwise specified, each numerical range should be either the mentioned value or any real numbers including integers within that range. For example, a range disclosed as 1 to 10 is intended to mean 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10, and a range disclosed as 1 to 2 is intended to mean 1, 1, 1, 2, 1, 3, 1, 4, 1, 5, 1, 6, 1, 7, 1, 8, 1, 9, and 2.

[0080] Each document cited in the present invention, including any patent or patent application referenced or related, and any patent application or patent in which the present application claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporated in its entirety into the present invention by reference, except where expressly excluded or otherwise limited. Mention of any document is not an admission that it constitutes prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein, nor that it, by itself or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses such invention. Furthermore, if there is a conflict between any meaning or definition of a term mentioned herein and any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition attributed to that term in this document shall prevail.

[0081] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be evident to those skilled in the art that various other alterations and Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 39 / 89 35 / 35 modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the appended claims intend to cover all such alterations and modifications that fall within the scope of this invention. Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 40 / 89

Claims

1 / 4 CLAIMS 1. Dosing cup (100) for dispensing a medicinal fluid, the dosing cup comprising: a base wall (102); a side wall (104) extending from the base wall (102) to an upper edge (106), thus defining a receiving volume of medicinal fluid (108); a first gripping portion (130a) formed in a first position (116) of the side wall (104);and a second gripping portion (130b) formed in a second position (118) of the side wall (104) opposite the first position (116) on the other side of the medicinal fluid receiving volume (108), characterized in that each of the first gripping portion (130a) and the second gripping portion (130b) comprises one or more anti-nesting projections (140) extending from an outer surface (105) of the side wall (104) for a distance beyond an inner diameter (di) of the upper edge (106), wherein the anti-nesting projections (140) are configured to fit into the upper edge (106) of a second dosing cup (100b) to prevent the dosing cup (100) from fitting inside the second dosing cup (110b).

2. Measuring cup (100), according to claim 1, characterized in that one or more anti-nesting projections (140) of the first gripping portion (130a) and of the second gripping portion (130b) comprise at least two anti-nesting projections (140).

3. Measuring cup (100), according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 41 / 89 2 / 4 each of the first gripping portion (130a) and the second gripping portion (130b) additionally comprising a plurality of gripping projections (131); and one or more anti-nesting projections (140) being intercalated between the plurality of gripping projections (131).

4. Measuring cup (100), according to claim 3, characterized in that the plurality of gripping projections (131) define a gradient length having a maximum length at the center of the first gripping portion (130a) and the second gripping portion (130b) and a decreasing length outward from the center of the first gripping portion (130a) and the second gripping portion (130b).

5. Measuring cup (100), according to claim 3 or 4, characterized by one or more anti-nesting projections (140) extending further from the outer surface (105) of the side wall (104) than the plurality of gripping projections (131).

6. Measuring cup (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by one or more anti-nesting projections (140) extending from the upper edge (106) along the side wall (104) to at least half the height of the measuring cup (100).

7. Measuring cup (100), according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by further comprising one or more retaining spheres (150) formed on an inner surface (107) of the side wall (104) opposite both the first gripping portion Petition 870260047521, dated 19 / 05 / 2026, page 42 / 89 3 / 4 (130a) and the second gripping portion (130b), wherein the one or more retaining spheres (150) are configured to engage in a releasable manner to a portion of a bottle (201) to secure the measuring cup (100) to the bottle (201).

8. Measuring cup, according to claim 7, characterized in that each of the one or more retaining spheres (150) comprises: a first surface (151) extending from the inner surface (107) of the side wall (104); and a second surface (152) extending from the inner surface (107) of the side wall (104) at a position below the first surface (151) and intersecting the first surface (151), wherein: the second surface (152) is angled with respect to a horizontal geometric axis (X) at an angle greater than the first surface (151).

9. System (200) for delivering medicinal fluid, characterized by comprising: a bottle (201); and the dosing cup (100) as defined in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the dosing cup (100) is configured to engage in a releasable manner to a portion of the bottle (201).

10. System (200) for delivering medicinal fluid, characterized by comprising: a bottle (201); and the dosing cup (100) as defined in claim 7 or 8, the dosing cup (100) being configured Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, page 43 / 89 4 / 4 to engage in a releasable manner to a portion of the bottle (201).

11. Medical fluid delivery system (200), according to claim 10, characterized in that the side wall (104) comprises: a first offset (120) that defines a first volume (122); and a second offset (124) that defines a second volume (126).

12. Medicinal fluid delivery system (200), according to claim 11, characterized by further comprising a dosage quantity indicator (127) positioned on the side wall (104) between the first gripping portion (130a) and the second gripping portion (130b). Petition 870260047521, dated 05 / 19 / 2026, p. 44 / 89

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