Attachments for beverage containers

Abstract

The present invention provides an attachment for a beverage container, which may include a top cover configured to be attached to an opening in the beverage container. The top cover includes an opening. The attachment also includes a tube passing through the top cover. The opening in the top cover is positioned near the first end of the tube, and the second end of the tube is configured to be positioned in the beverage container when the top cover is attached to the beverage container, so that the beverage contained in the beverage container can flow through the tube and flow out of the opening in the top cover. The attachment also includes a container attached to the tube and configured to hold liquid. The container includes an opening to allow liquid to flow from the container into the tube and flow out of the opening in the top cover. The attachment also includes a flow restrictor between the opening of the container and the tube to control and / or limit the flow of liquid from the container to the tube. The flow restrictor and the tube are configured so that the liquid begins to leave the opening in the top cover before the beverage begins to leave the opening in the top cover.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present teachings relate to an attachment for a beverage container. Background Art

[0002] There is interest in tastants that can enhance the taste perception of sugar (sucrose) and salt (sodium chloride) to provide an equivalent taste impression in food and beverages but at lower added levels. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends reducing the intake of salt and sugar to 2 g sodium and 50 g sugar per person per day in developed countries.

[0003] Examples of devices capable of containing and dispensing more than one liquid are found in GB432400A, EP3033297A1, US2016114942A, EP1628885A1, CN2658077Y, EP2653405A1, CN202717089U, WO2015167951A1 and US2007075079A. Summary of the invention

[0004] Particular aspects and embodiments are listed in the accompanying claims.

[0005] Viewed from a first aspect, the present teachings may provide an attachment for a beverage container for dispensing liquids that enhance the taste perception of tastants such as salt and sugar.

[0006] In a specific method, an attachment can be provided for a beverage container. The attachment includes a top cover configured to be attached to an opening in the beverage container, and the top cover includes an opening. The attachment also includes a tube passing through the top cover, wherein the opening in the top cover is positioned near the first end of the tube, and the second end of the tube is configured to be positioned in the beverage container when the top cover is attached to the beverage container, so that the beverage contained in the beverage container can flow through the tube and flow out of the opening in the top cover. The attachment also includes a container attached to the tube and configured to hold liquid, the container includes an opening to allow liquid to flow from the container into the tube and flow out of the opening on the top cover. The attachment also includes a restrictor between the opening of the container and the tube, to control and / or limit the flow of liquid from the container to the tube. The restrictor and the tube are configured to make the liquid start to leave the opening in the top cover first, and then the beverage starts to leave the opening in the top cover.

[0007] Thus, an attachment for a beverage container is provided that can be used to sequentially dispense liquids and beverages having different tastant concentrations for consumption by a user in a manner that the user perceives as successive sips from the attachment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Various exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail by way of example only with reference to the following drawings:

[0009] Figure 1 is a graph of sweetness intensity versus sugar content, using a non-homogeneous distribution of sucrose to enhance sweetness in a single sip.

[0010] Figure 2 is a graph of bitterness intensity of different samples of distributed caffeine in a single sip.

[0011] Figure 3 is a graph of sweetness intensity versus number of sips, using a non-homogeneously distributed sucrose to enhance sweetness across multiple single-sip containers.

[0012] Figure 4 is a graph showing sweetness intensity versus number of sips on the left, which is shown in Figure 2. Figures 12A to 12D Syrups based on heterogeneous (HT, open circles) or homogeneous (HM, open squares) distribution of sucrose were used in the multi-sip containers. On the right, the graph shows the amount of syrup after 5 consecutive sips, during which the sweetness intensity was measured.

[0013] Figure 5 is a graph showing sweetness intensity versus number of sips on the left, which is shown in Figure 2. Figures 12A to 12D Syrups based on heterogeneous (HT, open circles) or homogeneous (HM, open squares) distribution of sucrose were used in the multi-sip containers. On the right, the graph shows the amount of syrup after 5 consecutive sips, during which the sweetness intensity was measured.

[0014] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary attachment for a beverage container.

[0015] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B It is for Fig. 6A and Figure 6B A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary attachment for a beverage container is shown.

[0016] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of an attachment for a beverage container.

[0017] Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of an attachment for a beverage container.

[0018] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B They are respectively for Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B A top view of an attachment for a beverage container is shown.

[0019] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of an attachment for a beverage container.

[0020] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of an attachment for a beverage container.

[0021] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of an attachment for a beverage container.

[0022] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of an attachment for a beverage container.

[0023] Fig.15A and Fig. 15B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary container of an attachment for a beverage container.

[0024] Fig.16A and Fig. 16B is a schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary container of an attachment for a beverage container. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present disclosure relates to an attachment for a beverage container. The attachment is configured to hold a liquid in a container forming a part of the attachment. The attachment is also configured to distribute the liquid contained in the container and the beverage contained in the beverage container. Therefore, the attachment is configured to distribute a variety of liquids with different taste enhancer properties, thereby distributing a variety of liquids to users such as consumers. The liquid combined with the beverage can form a combined beverage for the user to drink (i.e., drinkable). Therefore, the liquid and the beverage can be regarded as the first part and the second part of the combined beverage. The combined beverage formed by the liquid and the beverage can be any beverage, such as a beverage that is usually drunk when hot, such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate or soup, or a beverage that is usually drunk when cold, such as soda, ice tea, juice, drinkable yogurt or milk. The combined beverage can be a non-carbonated beverage. Either or both of the liquid and the beverage can contain a nutrient liquid and / or a medicinal liquid.

[0026] Different tastant properties between a liquid and a beverage can be provided by either or both of the liquid and the beverage, the liquid and the beverage containing a certain amount or relatively different amounts of tastants. Tastants can be sweet, salty, bitter, fresh, sour, or have flavor. Tastants can contain more than one component, for example, a salty tastant can be composed of potassium chloride and ammonium chloride. The ratio of the concentration of tastants in the liquid to the total concentration of tastants in the beverage can be between 3:1 and 1.1:1. For example, a liquid can contain a tastant that is not present in the beverage, that is present in a smaller amount, or that is present in a relatively different amount, which can be applicable to tastants that are generally recognized by users, however, the liquid can have no or a small amount of tastants that are generally rejected by users.

[0027] The portion of the liquid and beverage that can be drunk together enables a single sip of the combined beverage to contain both the liquid and the beverage. Thus, in one dispensing operation, the total volume of the combined beverage dispensed from the attachment can be less than or equal to the natural sip volume. The natural sip volume may vary between users based on factors such as gender, age, reservoir size, cup-vs. straw sipping, and sequence effects, but can be considered to be approximately a figure of about 30 ml (see, e.g., Dysphagia Summer 2003; 18(3): 196-202). As further discussed below, multiple examples of the present method provide that the attachment can dispense the liquid and beverage in such a manner that a single use of the attachment dispenses some of the liquid and beverage, allowing the user to drink a portion of the combined beverage volume in a single sip.

[0028] In order to facilitate the differential delivery of liquids and beverages having different tastant contents, the attachment is configured to dispense the liquid substantially before the beverage. As discussed further below, there may be an overlap between the end of liquid dispensing and the start of beverage dispensing. With an attachment that operates in this manner, it is a prerequisite that the attachment is able to provide a combined beverage to the user according to the following principles of taste perception. When a liquid containing a tastant contacts the tongue before a liquid without a tastant, the overall taste impression is greatly affected by the concentration of the tastant in the first liquid that contacts the tongue.

[0029] The following four examples provide experimental data related to the sensory perception of sweetness and bitterness in single and multiple sips.

[0030] Example 1: Using a heterogeneous distribution of sucrose to enhance sweetness in a single bite .

[0031] The sweetness of the different samples was captured by quantitative descriptive analysis using a trained panel (n=12) using a package such as the liquid dispensing device described herein. In this example, a typical base milk chocolate product was used.

[0032] The homogenized sample contains semi-skimmed milk with Yg / L sucrose and 40g / L cocoa powder (4%), and two chambers of the package (which may be referred to or considered as the first container and the second container) are filled with the liquid component. The non-homogenized sample contains semi-skimmed milk with 2 times Yg / L sucrose and 40g / L cocoa powder (4%) in the outer chamber of the package, and contains semi-skimmed milk with 0g / L sucrose (0%) and 40g / L cocoa powder (4%) in the inner chamber of the package. In general, the non-homogenized sample contains semi-skimmed milk with Yg / L sucrose (10%) and 40g / L cocoa powder (4%), just like the homogenized sample.

[0033] Y was varied in 5 g / L increments from 50 g / L to 20 g / L, resulting in seven heterogeneous samples and seven homogeneous samples, all of which were described as sweet by a trained sensory panel. For all Y sucrose contents between 50 g / L and 30 g / L, the heterogeneous samples were considered to be more tangy than the homogeneous samples of the same concentration. The results are shown in Figure 1 In the figure, two statistically different samples do not share the same letter. Figure 1 The statistical significance of the differences was visualized by displaying error bars representing Fisher's least significant difference (LSD) post hoc multiple comparison analysis calculated for the factors with an individual error rate of 0.05 (equivalent to a 95% confidence level) (CI).

[0034] This sweetness enhancement can also be used to reduce the sucrose content without changing the perceived sweetness, since for example a non-homogeneous sample (Y=35 g / L=3.5%) is perceived as being as sweet as a homogenous sample (Y=50 g / L=5%), but corresponding to a 30% reduction in sucrose.

[0035] Example 2: Masking bitterness in a single mouthful using a heterogeneous distribution of caffeine .

[0036] The bitter taste of different samples using the packaging was captured by quantitative descriptive analysis using a trained panel (n=12).In this example, a typical base milk chocolate product was used.

[0037] The samples comprised semi-skimmed milk with 50 g / L (5%) sucrose, 40 g / L cocoa powder (4%) and either:

[0038] 0 g / L caffeine in both chambers (reference sample);

[0039] 0.4 g / L caffeine (homogeneous bitter taste) in both chambers;

[0040] 0.8 g / L of caffeine in the outer chamber (inhomogeneous bitter taste in the outer chamber);

[0041] 0.8 g / L caffeine in the inner chamber (inner chamber heterogeneous bitterness).

[0042] Figure 2 The results showed that the bitterness intensity of the samples was ranked in the following order: reference = inner chamber heterogeneous bitterness < homogeneous bitterness = outer chamber heterogeneous bitterness. This confirms that when caffeine is located in the inner chamber (or container), the bitterness of caffeine can be reduced to the same level as the reference sample without caffeine.

[0043] Example 3: Using a non-homogeneously distributed sucrose to enhance the sipping container (which can be considered as having two containers or chambers) Sweetness in containers containing different samples .

[0044] The sweetness of the different samples using the packaging was captured by quantitative descriptive analysis using a trained panel (n=12).In this example, a typical base milk chocolate product was used.

[0045] The reference sample contained semi-skimmed milk with 50 g / L sucrose (5%) and 40 g / L cocoa powder (4%), and both chambers of the package were filled with the liquid component. The negative control with 25% sucrose reduction contained semi-skimmed milk with 37.5 g / L sucrose (3.75%) and 40 g / L cocoa powder (4%), and both chambers of the package were filled with the liquid component. The non-homogeneous sample contained semi-skimmed milk with 75 g / L sucrose (7.5%) and 40 g / L cocoa powder (4%) in the first delivery chamber of the package, and semi-skimmed milk with 0 g / L sucrose (0%) and 40 g / L cocoa powder (4%) in the second delivery chamber of the package. In general, the non-homogeneous sample contained semi-skimmed milk with 37.5 g / L sucrose (3.75%) and 40 g / L cocoa powder (4%), just like the homogenized sample.

[0046] Eight package prototypes, each containing 20 ml (10 ml per delivery chamber), were used to deliver 160 ml of either the homogenous reference, the homogenous negative control with 25% less sucrose, or the non-homogeneous prototype with 25% less sucrose.

[0047] Figure 3 The results showed that during 8 consecutive sips corresponding to normal drinking behavior of 160 ml beverage, the sweetness of the heterogeneous prototype was not significantly lower than the full sugar reference, while the homogeneous negative control with 25% reduced sucrose was found to be significantly lower in sweetness than the reference.

[0048] Example 4: Sensory Test

[0049] The panel consisted of 11 panelists (10 females; 1 male) who were trained to assess the intensity of sweetness in liquid applications on a 0 to 10 intensity scale.

[0050] For this study, two strawberry syrup water samples were evaluated in a monotonical manner (one after the other). These samples were presented in bottles containing an inner pouch and were pre-filled for each panelist as shown in the following table:

[0051]

[0052] The aim was to evaluate whether a heterogeneous distribution of sugars has a positive impact on sweetness perception throughout the product drinking period.

[0053] For each sample, panelists were asked to take 5 consecutive sips (the number of sips was chosen to represent as closely as possible the volume consumed in a conventional RTD bottle) and to rate the intensity of the sweetness perceived after each sip on a 0 to 10 intensity scale.

[0054] For the homogenized samples, the syrup was pre-diluted in Acqua Panna water at the following concentration: 102.4 g syrup (14% sugar at 1:5 dilution) / 1 L water (Acqua Panna).

[0055] For both samples: first fill the empty bottle with 390 g of liquid and use a 50 mL syringe to fill the inner pouch separately.Then insert and screw the unit containing the inner pouch (filled with liquid), the straw with bulb and the closure onto the bottle.

[0056] Prior to tasting, for each panelist, the following items were weighed in both samples:

[0057] - The exact amount of liquid (syrup concentrate for heterogeneous samples; diluted syrup for homogeneous samples) incorporated into the inner pouch

[0058] - The exact amount of liquid (water for heterogeneous samples; diluted syrup for homogeneous samples) added to the bottle.

[0059] After tasting, for each panelist, weigh the following items in both samples:

[0060] - The exact amount of liquid remaining in the inner sachet (syrup concentrate for non-homogeneous samples; diluted syrup for homogenous samples)

[0061] - The exact amount of liquid (water for heterogeneous samples; diluted syrup for homogeneous samples) remaining in the bottle.

[0062] Based on these weight measurements, it was possible to estimate the amount of syrup each panelist consumed after five sips for each sample.

[0063] The mean sweetness ratings obtained for the two samples after each sip were then compared and a "Student t" test was applied to identify whether the observed differences were significant. The amounts of syrup consumed were then compared and a "Student t" test was applied to identify whether the observed differences were significant.

[0064] The study was repeated twice and the results are shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 In both cases, no significant difference in sweetness intensity was observed between the homogenized and non-homogenized samples after 5 consecutive sips (ns). However, also in both cases, the amount of syrup consumed after 5 consecutive sips was significantly lower in the non-homogenized samples (3.84 g and 10.14 g in the first and second studies, respectively) than in the homogenized samples (16.84 g and 17.96 g in the first and second studies, respectively) (p<0.05). Therefore, these two studies confirm that the use of non-homogeneous distributed packaging allows the removal of a large amount of caloric sweetener without affecting the perceived sweetness.

[0065] Various examples of attachments for beverage containers and their use in providing liquid and beverage delivery as described above will now be discussed with reference to FIGS. 6-16 .

[0066] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary attachment 100 for a beverage container 200 . Fig. 6A is an exploded cross-sectional view showing the attachment 100 separated from the beverage container 200, and Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view showing the attachment 100 attached to the beverage container 200 .

[0067] The beverage container has a first end 201, a second end 202 opposite to the first end 201, and one or more side walls 203. The end of the beverage container 200 and / or the one or more side walls 203 form the outer shape of the beverage container 200. The beverage container has an opening 204. The beverage container 200 can be any conventional beverage container known in the art, such as a plastic or glass beverage bottle, a cardboard milk or juice carton, or a metal can. The beverage container 200 can be provided as a sealed container for accommodating a beverage 290, having a top cover, a top, or other suitable sealing element attached to the opening 204 in the beverage container 200. Alternatively, a beverage container 200 without a beverage 290 can be provided, thereby allowing a user to fill the beverage container 200 with a beverage of their choice. The sealing element can be attached by a threaded fitting, an interference fit, or any other suitable attachment device. Therefore, the sealing element retains the beverage such as to prevent or prevent the beverage 290 contained in the beverage container 200 from leaking or overflowing the beverage container 200 during transportation or storage of the beverage container 200 or when the beverage container 200 is knocked over or overturned. The beverage 290 in the beverage container 200 can be a beverage that is usually drunk when hot, such as tea, coffee, hot chocolate or soup, or a beverage that is usually drunk when cold, such as soda, ice tea, juice, drinking yogurt or milk. The beverage 290 can be a non-carbonated beverage and / or can contain a nutritional liquid and / or a medicinal liquid.

[0068] The attachment 100 of the beverage container 200 includes a top cover 110. The top cover has a first end 111, a second end 112 opposite to the first end 111, and one or more side walls 113. The top cover 110 is configured to be attached to an opening 204 in the beverage container 200. The one or more side walls 113 of the top cover 110 form an outer surface of the top cover 110. The outer surface of the top cover 110 may form a cross-sectional shape substantially the same as the cross-sectional shape of the beverage container 200. For example, the cross-sections of the top cover 110 and the beverage container 200 may both be roughly circular. Alternatively, the outer surface of the top cover 110 may form a cross-sectional shape different from the cross-sectional shape of the beverage container 200. For example, the cross-section of the top cover 110 may be roughly circular, while the cross-sectional area of ​​the beverage container 200 may be square or rectangular.

[0069] In use, the sealing element of the beverage container can be removed and the attachment 100 attached to the beverage container 200 in place of the sealing element. The cap 110 of the attachment 100 is configured to attach to the opening 204 in the beverage container 200 in the same manner as the sealing element.

[0070] In the example shown in FIG. 6 , the opening 204 in the beverage container includes threads 206. Although not shown, the beverage container may be initially provided with a sealing element that is screwed around the opening 204 to the threads 204 so as to attach and seal the beverage container 200. The top cover 110 also includes threads 114 on an inner face 116 of the top cover 110. After removing the sealing element from the beverage container 200, the top cover 110 may be screwed to the opening 204 in the beverage container 200 so as to attach the top cover 110 to the opening 204 in the beverage container 200 and thereby seal the beverage container 200. The top cover 110 may also include a sealing device, such as an elastic O-ring on the inner face 116 of the top cover 110, so as to further seal the opening 204 in the beverage container 200, thereby preventing the beverage 290 contained in the beverage container 200 from leaking or spilling out of the beverage container 200, such as when the beverage container 200 is knocked over or tipped over. One or more sidewalls 113 of the cap 110 may be knotted, roughened, or otherwise textured to provide an outer surface that can be easily grasped by a user when tightening the cap 110 onto the beverage container 200. Alternatively or in addition, the cap 110 may include four or more sidewalls, such as to form the appearance of a square, hexagonal, or octagonal nut that can be grasped by a user or a tool, such as a wrench, to tighten or otherwise attach the cap 110 to the beverage container 200.

[0071] exist Fig. 8A and Figure 8B In another example shown, the top cover 110 forms a press fit against the opening 204 in the beverage container 200 to attach to and seal the beverage container 200. The one or more side walls 113 of the top cover 110 are configured to abut and provide a press fit with the inner surface of the opening 204 in the beverage container 200. In this example, the cross-sectional shape of the top cover 110 formed by the one or more side walls 113 is configured to match the cross-sectional shape of the inner surface of the opening 204 in the beverage container 200. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B In the example shown, the top cover 110 has a flange 115 surrounding the opening 204 in the beverage container, and the flange is pressed against the first end 201 of the beverage container 200 when the top cover is positioned in the beverage container, so as to provide a larger contact surface between the top cover 110 and the beverage container 200, thereby improving the seal provided by the top cover 110. In some examples, the flange 115 and the corresponding portion of the first end 201 of the beverage container 200 can be bonded in some way, such as using heat bonding or adhesive bonding. Therefore, the attachment 100 can be designed to adapt to any conventional beverage container by adjusting the top cover 110 so that the top cover 110 can be attached to the opening in the beverage container.

[0072] The top cover 110 also includes an opening 118. Figure 6BIn the example shown, the opening 118 is located at a first end 111 of the top cover 110, and the top cover 110 is attached to the beverage container 200 at a second end 112 of the top cover 110, such that the opening 118 is located at the end of the top cover 110 opposite the beverage container 200. Alternatively, the opening 118 may be located in one or more of the side walls 113, or may be located at the same end of the top cover 110 to which the beverage container 200 is attached.

[0073] The attachment 100 also includes a tube 120. The tube 120 passes through the top cover 110, wherein the opening 118 in the top cover 110 is located near the first end 121 of the tube 120. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the tube 120 extends from a first end 121 proximate to the opening 118 in the top cover so that the tube 120 passes through the top cover 110 and beyond the second end 112 of the top cover 110 to a second end 122 of the tube 120. The second end 122 of the tube 120 is configured to be positioned within the beverage container 200 when the top cover 110 is attached to the beverage container 200, as shown in FIG. Figure 6B The length of the tube 120 may be such that when the cap 110 is attached to the beverage container 200, the second end 122 of the tube is close to the second end of the beverage container 200. This ensures that when the beverage container is held upright, the fluid plane 295 of the beverage 290 is higher than the second end 122 of the tube 120. Alternatively, the length of the tube 120 may be such that the tube 120 only partially extends into the beverage container 200, for example, such that the second end 122 of the tube 120 is close to the first end 201 of the beverage container 200.

[0074] The beverage 290 contained in the beverage container 200 can flow through the tube 120 and out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110. For example, when the beverage container 200 is tilted or poured, or when suction is applied to the opening 118 in the top cover 110, the beverage can flow along the length of the tube 120 into the second end 122 of the tube 120 and out of the first end 121 of the tube 120 at the opening 118 in the top cover 110, so that the beverage 290 flows out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110.

[0075] The attachment 100 also includes a container 130 attached to the tube 120. The container 130 is configured to hold a liquid 190. Fig. 6A and Figure 6B In the example shown, the container 130 is positioned entirely within the cover 100. Fig. 6A and Figure 6BAs shown, this allows the width or diameter of the container 130 to be greater than the width or diameter of the opening 204 in the beverage container 200, thereby providing a larger container 130 and therefore allowing a larger volume of liquid 190. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 8, 9 and 11, only a portion of the container 130 can be positioned within the top cover 110. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B In the example shown, the remaining portion of the container 130 that is not positioned within the top cover 110 extends into the beverage container 200. In this example, the width or diameter of the container 130 is equal to or less than the width or diameter of the opening 204 in the beverage container 200 to allow the container 130 to pass through the opening 204 and into the beverage container 200 so that the top cover 110 can be attached to the opening 204 in the beverage container 200, as shown in FIG. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B In each of the examples shown in FIGS. 6 to 11 , the tube 120 extends through the container 130 .

[0076] In another example shown in Figure 12 and Figure 13, container 130 is separated and separable from top cover 110. In this example, the shape of container 130 is roughly spherical, but container 130 can be formed into any other suitable shape, such as cubic, cylindrical, quadrangular or truncated cone.Container 130 is configured to be entirely positioned in beverage container 200 when top cover 110 is attached to beverage container 200.Container 130 can be elastically deformable, so that container 130 is deformable and squeezes into the opening 204 in beverage container 200, and then returns to its initial non-deformed shape in beverage container 200.This allows the non-deformed width of container 130 or the width or diameter of the opening 204 greater than the beverage container 200.A certain amount of beverage 290 can increase the flow velocity of liquid 190 flowing out from container 130 around the pressure of container 130.

[0077] In the example shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , the container 130 can be configured to be refillable once it is positioned within the beverage container, such that the liquid 190 can be replenished after each use without removing the container 130 from the beverage container 200. For example, the cap 110 and tube 120 can be removed from the container, thereby allowing the beverage 290 to be refilled into the beverage container 200 by pouring the beverage 290 and the liquid 190 into the beverage container 200 and the container 130, respectively, through the opening 204 in the beverage container 200. The cap 110 and tube 120 can then be reattached to the beverage container 200 and the container 130, respectively, so that the beverage container 200 and the attachment 100 can be reused. Alternatively, the beverage container 200 and / or the attachment 100 may be intended for a single use only and be discarded after use.

[0078] In another example shown in FIG. 14 , the container 130 is separate and detachable from the top cover 110 and the beverage container 200. In this example, the second end 202 of the beverage container 200 is recessed to form a recess 208. The container 130 can then be inserted into and removed from the recess 208 in the beverage container 200 so that the container 130 is positioned at the end 202 of the beverage container 200, which is distal to the opening 204 to which the top cover 110 in the beverage container 200 is attached. In the example shown in FIG. 14 , the container 130 is inserted into the recess 208 in the beverage container 200 and is held in place by a push-fit connection between the mating surface of the container 130 and the recess 208 in the beverage container 200. Fig.14A The container 130 is shown partially positioned within the recess 208 in the beverage container 200 so as not to fit via a push-fit connection. Fig. 14B The container 130 is shown attached to the recess 208 by a push-fit connection so that the container 130 is positioned as deeply as possible in the recess 208 in the beverage container 200. The first end 131 of the container 130 is opposite the opening 132 in the container 130. The side wall 133 of the container near the first end 131 of the container is recessed to allow a user to hold the container 130 at the first end 131 of the container 130 and pull the container 130 toward the second end 202 of the beverage container 200 to remove the container 130 from the recess 208 in the beverage container 200. Alternatively, the container 130 may be screwed, glued or otherwise attached to the recess 208 in the beverage container 200. The container 130 and the recess 208 in the beverage container 200 may be configured such that the container 130 cannot be removed from the recess 208 in the beverage container.

[0079] exist Fig. 14BIn the example shown, the container 130 is configured to be positioned entirely within a recess 208 in the beverage container 200, such that the container 130 does not protrude beyond the second end 202 of the beverage container 130. This allows the second end 202 of the beverage container 200 to provide a stable base for the beverage container 200, so that the beverage container 200 can be stored vertically on a surface, wherein the second end 202 of the beverage container 200 is in contact with the surface. In another example, the container 130 can be configured to partially fit within the recess 208 and partially extend beyond the recess 208. In such an example, the shape of the container 130 can be such as to provide a base for the beverage container 200 and to be received within the recess 208. In another alternative example, the second end 202 of the beverage container 200 can be provided without a recess 208 for receiving the container 130. In such an example, the container 130 is instead directly attached to the second end 202 of the beverage container. For example, the container 130 may have substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the second end 202 of the beverage container 200 such that the container 130 provides a base for the beverage container 200 when the container 130 is attached to the second end 202 of the beverage container 200 .

[0080] 14, when the liquid 190 in the container 130 has been depleted, the container 130 can be removed from the recess 208 in the beverage container 130. The container 130 can then be refilled with liquid 190 and reinserted into the recess 208 in the beverage container 200, or the container 130 can be discarded and a new container 130 inserted into the appropriate location in the recess 208 in the beverage container. This allows containers 130 containing different liquids 190, such as one or more differently flavored liquids having different concentrations of a particular tastant, to be used with the same beverage container 200 and attachment 100.

[0081] In each example, the container 130 includes an opening 132 to allow liquid 190 to flow from the container 130 into the tube 120 and out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110. The attachment also includes a flow restrictor 140 located between the opening 132 of the container 130 and the tube 120 to control and / or limit the flow of the liquid 190 from the container 130 to the tube 120. The flow restrictor 140 and the tube 120 are configured such that the liquid 190 begins to leave the opening 118 in the top cover 110 before the beverage 290 begins to leave the opening 118 in the top cover 110.

[0082] exist Fig. 6A , Figure 6B8 , the tube 120 extends through the container 130 so that the tube 120 forms an inner surface in the container 130. The restrictor 140 forms an opening 132 on the inner surface of the container 130 formed by the tube 120 in the container 130 so that the liquid 190 can flow from the container 130 inwardly into the tube 120 by passing through the restrictor 140.

[0083] 12 and 13, the opening 132 in the container 130 is oriented toward the opening 118 in the top cover 110, and the flow restrictor 140 is positioned between the opening 132 in the container 130 and the tube 120. The flow restrictor 140 is coupled to the tube 120 within the top cover 110 so that the liquid 190 can flow out of the opening 132 in the container 130, through the flow restrictor 140, into the tube 120, and out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110. Alternatively, the flow restrictor 140 can be coupled to the tube 120 outside the top cover 110, such as within the beverage container 200, so that only the tube 120 extends to and through the top cover 110.

[0084] In the example shown in Figure 14, the restrictor 140 extends from the first end 141 in the top cover 110 through the beverage container 200 to the second end 147 at the recess 208 in the beverage container 200. Therefore, the second end 147 of the restrictor forms an opening in the recess 208 in the beverage container 200. In the example shown in Figure 14, the container is provided with a seal, such as a metal foil or a plastic sheet, above the opening 132 in the container. The second end 147 of the restrictor is shaped so that when the container 130 is inserted into the recess 208 in the second container 200, it pierces the seal above the opening 132 in the container 130. This forms a hole in the opening 132 in the container, thereby allowing the liquid 190 to flow out of the container 130, through the restrictor 140 and the top cover 110, and out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110. The second end 147 can be regarded as an inlet opening for receiving liquid from the container 130.

[0085] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B It is for Fig. 6A and Figure 6B A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary attachment 100 to a beverage container 200 is shown. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B In the example shown, the flow restrictor 140 has an open position and a closed position. Fig. 7A The attachment 100 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in a closed position, and Figure 7B The attachment 100 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in an open position. The flow restrictor 140 in a closed position prevents the liquid 190 from flowing out of the container 130. Fig. 7A and Figure 7BIn the example shown, the flow restrictor 140 includes one or more holes 142. In the closed position, as shown in FIG. Fig. 7A As shown, one or more holes 142 are positioned below and outside of the container 130. Thus, the tube 120 seals against the inner surface of the container 130 and inhibits or prevents the liquid 190 from flowing from the container 130 into the tube 120. The restrictor 140 translates in a first direction, as shown by arrow A, to transition the restrictor 140 from a closed position to an open position. In the open position, as shown in FIG. Figure 7B As shown, one or more holes 142 are positioned within the container 130, thereby forming an opening 132 in the container 130, so that the liquid 190 can flow from the container 130 inwardly into the tube 120 by passing through the one or more holes 142. In the open position, the first end 121 of the tube 120 extends beyond the opening 118 in the first end 111 of the cap 110. This provides a visual indication to the user that the restrictor 140 is in the open position.

[0086] exist Fig. 7A and Figure 7B In the example shown, the flow restrictor 140 has one or more notches 144A, 144B. The notches 144A and 144B are configured to engage with one or more grooves or slots 124 in the tube 120 to secure and hold the flow restrictor 140 in the open and closed positions such that a force is required to transition the flow restrictor 140 from the closed position to the open position and vice versa. This also prevents misuse of the attachment 100, for example by preventing a user from translating the flow restrictor 140 too far in the first direction A. Fig. 7A and Figure 7B In the illustrated embodiment, only the top portion 120A of the tube 120 corresponding to the segment of the tube 120 housing the flow restrictor 140 is translated in the first direction. The remaining portion 120B of the tube 120 remains fixed and does not translate. This means that the second end 122 of the tube 120 remains in a fixed position relative to the beverage container 200, for example, a predetermined distance from the second end 202 of the container. Alternatively, the entire tube 120 may be translated when the flow restrictor 140 is translated from the closed position to the open position, and vice versa.

[0087] Additionally, the attachment 100 may further include a second restrictor 150 located within the tube 120 to control and / or restrict the flow of the beverage 290 through the tube 120 and out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110 of the attachment 100. This allows the liquid 190 to begin to leave the opening 118 in the top cover 118 before the beverage 290 begins to leave the opening 118 in the top cover 110 with each sip, for example, by providing a differential flow rate between the first restrictor 140 and the second restrictor 150. Alternatively, the attachment 100 may not include the second restrictor 150, and instead the tube 120 may be configured to be elastically deformable such that when suction is applied to the opening 118 in the top cover 110, the tube 120 deforms inwardly, thereby controlling and / or restricting the flow of the beverage 290 through the tube 120, thereby ensuring that the liquid 190 begins to leave the opening 118 in the top cover 118 before the beverage 290 begins to leave the opening 118 in the top cover 110. The tube 120 may be configured such that only a portion of the tube below the first flow restrictor 140 is elastically deformable, thereby providing that only the flow of the beverage 290 is restricted by the tube 120 .

[0088] In the embodiment shown in Figures 6 and 7, the second flow restrictor 150 is a one-way valve, such as a ball valve 153, and is positioned proximate the second end 122 of the tube 120. Thus, the second flow restrictor 150 also inhibits or prevents the liquid 190 from flowing through the tube 120 and into the beverage container 200, while also inhibiting or preventing the beverage 290 from flowing back into the beverage container 200. When the ball valve 153A is positioned in the first seat 155A, any liquid 190 or beverage 290 is prevented from flowing into the beverage container 200 through the second end 122 of the tube 120. When pressure is applied to the second flow restrictor 150, for example, by applying suction to the first end 121 of the tube 120, squeezing or otherwise applying pressure to one or more sidewalls 203 of the beverage container 200, or rotating the attachment 100 and the beverage container 200, the beverage 290 begins to flow out of the beverage container 200 and into the second end 122 of the tube 120. This forces the ball valve 153 to disengage from the first seat 155A of the ball valve 153 and allows the beverage 290 to flow around the ball valve 153 and down the tube 120 toward the first end 121 of the tube 120. The ball valve 153 has a second seat 155B that limits the movement of the ball valve 153 and prevents the ball valve 153 from traveling along the tube 120 and contacting the first flow restrictor 140. A spring or other biasing device may be used in place of the second seat 155B of the ball valve 153 in order to limit the movement of the ball valve 153 while also serving to return the ball valve 153 to the first seat 155A.

[0089] Thus, a first example of an attachment 100 for a beverage container 200 has been described that can be used to sequentially dispense liquids 190 and beverages 290 having different tastant concentrations for consumption by a user in a manner that the user perceives as successive sips from the attachment. Such an attachment can selectively hold liquids in a dispensing arrangement that allows a limited amount of liquid to be dispensed to the mouthpiece before the beverage reaches the mouthpiece.

[0090] Fig. 8A and Figure 8B FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another of the attachments 100 for a beverage container 200, wherein similar components shown have the same reference numerals as those used in FIGS. 6 and 7. As described above, compared to the exemplary attachments 100 shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, in FIG. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B In the example shown, the cap 110 forms a press fit against the opening 204 in the beverage container 200 to attach to and seal the beverage container 200 , and only a portion of the container 130 may be positioned within the cap 110 . Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The restrictor 140 in the illustrated example also includes one or more apertures 142, and the restrictor 140 also has an open position and a closed position, wherein Fig. 8A The attachment 100 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in a closed position, and Figure 8B The attachment 100 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in an open position. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The flow restrictor 140 in the example shown is similar to that described above with reference to Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The examples shown function in the same manner as described.

[0091] Thus, there has been described another example of an attachment 100 for a beverage container 200 that can be used to sequentially dispense liquids 190 and beverages 290 having different tastant concentrations for consumption by a user in a manner that the user perceives as successive sips from the attachment.

[0092] Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B 6 to 8. For ease of illustration, Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B The lower portion of the tube 120 is omitted. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B The restrictor 140 in the illustrated example also includes one or more apertures 142, and the restrictor 140 also has an open position and a closed position, wherein Fig. 9AThe attachment 100 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in a closed position, and Fig. 9B FIG. 1 shows the attachment 100 with the flow restrictor 140 in the open position. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B In the example shown, the restrictor 140 is rotated to transition from a closed position to an open position. The restrictor is rotated about an axis extending from the first end 121 of the tube 120 to the second end 122 of the tube 120, which causes one or more holes 142 in the restrictor 140 to rotate relative to the container 130, thereby forming an opening 132 in the container 130, so that the liquid 190 can flow from the container 130 to the tube 120 by passing through the one or more holes 142. Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B In the example shown, only the top portion 120A of the tube 120 corresponding to the segment of the tube 120 that houses the flow restrictor 140 is rotated. The remaining portion 120B of the tube 120 remains fixed and does not rotate. Alternatively, the entire tube 120 may be rotated when the flow restrictor 140 translates from the closed position to the open position, and vice versa.

[0093] exist Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B In the example shown, one or more side walls 133 of the container 130 are shaped to provide a groove 134 on one side of the container 130. When the restrictor 140 is in a position such as Fig. 9A In the closed position shown, one or more holes 142 in the restrictor 140 are not aligned with the grooves 134 on one side of the container 130, so that the liquid 190 is prevented from flowing out of the container 130. Fig. 9B In the open position shown, the one or more holes 142 in the restrictor are aligned with the slots 134 on the side of the container 130, so that the liquid 190 can flow from the container 130 inwardly into the tube 120 by passing through the one or more holes 142. The container 130 can be configured to have a plurality of slots 134 around the periphery of the container so that the restrictor 140 can be rotated a predetermined angle until one of the one or more holes 142 is aligned with the slot 134. For example, if the container 130 has two slots 134 on opposite sides of the container 130 and the restrictor 140 has two holes 142 on opposite sides of the restrictor, the restrictor will rotate 90 degrees to transition from the closed position to the open position and vice versa. This Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B As shown in Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B Top view of the attachment shown. Fig. 10A The first end 121 of the tube 120 is shown when the restrictor is in the closed position, and Fig. 10BThe first end 121 of the tube 120 is shown when the restrictor is in the open position. In this example, the cross-section of the first end 121 of the tube 120 is elliptical to provide a visual indication to the user of the position of the restrictor 140. Alternatively, the first end 121 of the tube 120 may be any other shape having discrete rotational symmetry. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B As can be seen in the figure, the orientation of the major axis of the elliptical first end portion 121 of the tube 120 differs by 90 degrees between the open position and the closed position.

[0094] exist Fig. 9A and Fig. 9B In the example shown, the tube 120 also includes one or more holes 126A, 126B and the container includes one or more vents 136A, 136B to allow air to enter the container. When the top portion 120A of the tube 120 corresponding to the section of the tube 120 that accommodates the restrictor 140 is in the open position, the holes 126A, 126B are aligned with the vents 136A, 136B located toward the first end 131 of the container 130, which is at the end opposite to the opening 132 in the container 130. When the holes 126A, 126B are aligned with the vents 136A, 136B, air can flow along the tube 120 into the first end 121 of the tube 120, through the holes 126A, 126B into the vents 136A, 136B and into the container 130. Alternatively, vents 136A, 136B may be located in one or more sidewalls 133 of container 130 to allow air to enter container 130 from outside of attachment 100 by directly entering the vents, without having to first flow along tube 120. Thus, as liquid 190 leaves container 130, vents 136A, 136B function to prevent a vacuum from forming within container 130, thereby preventing either or both deformation of container 130 or a reduction in the flow rate of liquid 190 exiting container 130.

[0095] Thus, there has been described another example of an attachment 100 for a beverage container 200 that can be used to sequentially dispense liquids 190 and beverages 290 having different tastant concentrations for consumption by a user in a manner that the user perceives as successive sips from the attachment.

[0096] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D 6 to 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of an attachment 100 for a beverage container 200, wherein like components shown have the same reference numerals as those used in FIGS. 6 to 10. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D The restrictor 140 of the illustrated attachment 100 is substantially the same as described above with reference to the examples illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 . FIG. 11A to FIG. 11DIn the example shown, the flow restrictor has a plurality of open positions, wherein in each of the plurality of open positions, a different volume of liquid 190 can flow from the container 130. The flow restrictor 140 is rotated to transition between each of the plurality of open positions. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D The restrictor 140 in the illustrated example includes a plurality of holes 142A to 142C. Each hole in the plurality of holes 142A to 142C has a different diameter, wherein hole 144A has the smallest diameter and hole 144C has the largest diameter. Rotating the restrictor 140 between each of the plurality of open positions changes the diameter of the holes 144A to 144C, and the liquid 190 can flow out of the container 130, thereby changing the flow rate of the liquid 190 and the volume of the liquid 190 that can flow out of the container 130 at each of the open positions.

[0097] Fig.11A The attachment 100 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in a closed position, and FIG. 11B to FIG. 11D The attachment 100 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in each open position. Fig.11A In the example shown, none of the plurality of apertures 142A- 142C are aligned with the groove 134 , and thus the liquid 190 cannot flow out of the container 130 .

[0098] To change the current limiter 140 from Fig.11A The closed position shown is transformed into Fig. 11B In the first open position shown, the top portion 120A of the tube 120 corresponding to the section of the tube 120 housing the restrictor 140 is rotated 90 degrees extending from the first end 121 of the tube 120 to the second end 122 of the tube 120. In the first open configuration, the aperture 142A is aligned with the groove 134, so that the liquid 190 can flow into the groove 134 and out of the container 130 through the aperture 142A.

[0099] To change the current limiter 140 from Fig. 11B The first open position shown is changed to Fig. 11C In the second open position shown, the top portion 120A of the tube 120 corresponding to the segment of the tube 120 that accommodates the restrictor 140 is rotated another 90 degrees in the same direction, so that the top portion 120A of the segment of the tube 120 corresponding to the segment of the tube 120 that accommodates the restrictor 140 is rotated 180 degrees to transition from the first open position to the second open position. In the second open configuration, the hole 142B is aligned with the groove 134. The hole 142B has a larger diameter than the hole 142A, so more liquid 190 can flow into the groove 134 and out of the container 130 through the hole 142B than when the restrictor 140 is in the first open position.

[0100] To change the current limiter 140 from Fig. 11CThe second open position shown is changed to Fig.11D In the third open position shown, the top portion 120A of the tube 120 corresponding to the segment of the tube 120 that receives the restrictor 140 is rotated another 90 degrees in the same direction. The aperture 142C has a larger diameter than the apertures 142A and 142B, so more liquid 190 can flow into the groove 134 and out of the container 130 through the aperture 142C than when the restrictor 140 is in the first open position or the second open position.

[0101] The top portion 120A of the tube 120 may be configured to allow the restrictor to be further rotated so that the restrictor can be transitioned from the third open position to the closed position by rotating the top portion 120A of the tube 120 corresponding to the segment of the tube 120 that accommodates the restrictor 140 another 90 degrees in the same direction. Alternatively, the top portion 120A of the tube 120 may be configured with a stopper to prevent further rotation of that portion of the tube 120 when the restrictor is in the third open position, so that the top portion 120A of the tube 120 must be rotated 270 degrees in the opposite direction in order to transition the restrictor from the third open position back to the closed position.

[0102] Alternatively, the restrictor may include an elongated slot wherein a different cross-sectional area of ​​the elongated slot aligns with the groove 136 in the container 130 in each of the plurality of open positions, thereby varying the volume of liquid 190 that may flow from the container in each of the plurality of open positions.

[0103] It should be understood that the required rotation amount and the open position number of the flow restrictor are used for illustration purposes between each position of the flow restrictor, and any rotation interval can be used in combination with any number of open positions. In addition, the required rotation amount can be different between different positions. For example, 90 degree rotations may be required to be transformed from the closed position to the open position, and then 45 degree rotations may be required to transform between each open position. Alternatively, the flow restrictor may be configured so that when in the closed position, the top portion 120A of the section corresponding to the pipe 120 that accommodates the flow restrictor 140 of the pipe 120 in the first direction will cause the flow restrictor 140 to be transformed to the first open position, and the top portion 120A of the section corresponding to the pipe 120 that accommodates the flow restrictor 140 of the pipe 120 in the direction opposite to the first direction will cause the flow restrictor 140 to be transformed to the second open position.

[0104] Thus, there has been described another example of an attachment 100 for a beverage container 200 that can be used to sequentially dispense liquids 190 and beverages 290 having different tastant concentrations for consumption by a user in a manner that the user perceives as successive sips from the attachment.

[0105] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D6 to 11. For ease of illustration, FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D The lower portion of the beverage container 200 is omitted. FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D In the example shown, the flow restrictor 140 has an open position and a closed position. Fig. 12A The attachment 100 to a beverage container 200 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in a closed position, and Fig. 12B The attachment 100 of the beverage container 200 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in an open position. The flow restrictor 140 is translated in a first direction, as indicated by arrow A, in order to transition the flow restrictor 140 from the closed position to the open position. FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D In the illustrated embodiment, only the top portion 120A of the tube 120 corresponding to the section of the tube 120 housing the restrictor 140 is translated in the first direction. The remaining portion 120B of the tube 120 remains fixed and does not translate. This means that the second end 122 of the tube 120 remains in a fixed position relative to the beverage container 200, for example, a predetermined distance (not shown) from the second end 202 of the container.

[0106] exist FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D In the example shown, the top portion 120A of the tube 120 has one or more grooves or slots 124A, 124B. The slots 124A and 124B are configured to engage with the spring-loaded latch 117 in the top cover 110 so that the restrictor 140 is fixed and maintained in the open position and the closed position, so that a force is required to convert the restrictor 140 from the closed position to the open position, and vice versa. This also prevents misuse of the attachment 100, for example, by preventing the user from translating the restrictor 140 and the top portion 120A of the tube 120 too far in the first direction A. It should be understood that although the illustrated embodiment uses one or more slots and a spring-loaded latch 117, any form of biasing device can be used to keep the restrictor in a closed position or an open position.

[0107] exist FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D In the example shown, the flow restrictor includes a plurality of one-way valves 143A, 143B. FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D The restrictor shown in the embodiment includes two ball valves 143A, 143B, i.e., a first ball valve 143A positioned toward the container 130 and a second ball valve 143B positioned toward the tube 120. Other types of one-way valves may be used, such as rubber or silicone diaphragm valves, lift check valves, inline check valves, or duckbill valves. Likewise, more than two one-way valves may be used, such as three or five.

[0108] When the restrictor 140 is in the closed position, the first ball valve 143A is positioned in the first seat 145A, thereby preventing the liquid 190 from flowing into the container 130 through the opening 132 in the container 130. When the restrictor 140 is in the closed position, the second ball valve 143B is positioned in the first seat 145B, thereby preventing the liquid 190 from flowing toward the first ball valve 143A. When the restrictor 140 is in the closed position, the slit 125 in the top portion 120A of the tube 120 is not aligned with the rest 120B of the tube 120. Therefore, the top portion 120A of the tube 120 blocks the rest 120B of the tube 120, thereby preventing the beverage 290 from flowing along the tube 120 and out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110.

[0109] When the restrictor 140 is in the open position and pressure is applied to the restrictor, such as by applying suction to the first end 121 of the tube, squeezing or otherwise applying pressure to one or more sidewalls 203 of the beverage container 200, or pouring or tilting the attachment 100 and the beverage container 200, the liquid 190 begins to flow out of the opening 132 in the container 130 and forces the first ball valve 143A to disengage from the first seat 145A of the first ball valve 143A. This allows the liquid 190 to flow around the first ball valve 143A and toward the second ball valve 143B. The first ball valve 143A has a second seat 145C that limits the movement of the first ball valve 143A and prevents the first ball valve 143A from traveling along the restrictor 140 and contacting the second ball valve 143B. A spring or other biasing device may be used in place of the second seat 145C of the first ball valve 143A in order to limit the movement of the first ball valve 143A while also serving to return the first ball valve to the first seat 145A. When the restrictor 140 is in the open position, the liquid 190 flows toward the second ball valve 143B and forces the second ball valve 143B to disengage from the first seat 145B of the second ball valve 143B. This allows the liquid 190 to flow around the second ball valve 143B, into the top portion 120A of the tube 120 and out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110. When the restrictor 140 is in the open position, the slit 125 in the top portion 120A of the tube 120 is aligned with the rest 120B of the tube 120, thereby allowing the beverage 290 to flow along the tube 120 and out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110.

[0110] The top portion 120A of the tube 120 has a smaller cross-sectional area than the restrictor, and therefore the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120 is used to limit the movement of the second ball valve 143B within the restrictor. The second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120 may also have an internal bevel that increases the contact area between the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120 and the second ball valve 143B, thereby providing a better seal. When the restrictor 140 is in the closed position, the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120 contacts the second ball valve, which is also positioned in the first seat 145B of the second ball valve 143B, thereby preventing the second ball valve 143B from moving.

[0111] When the restrictor 140 is transitioned to the open position, the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120 moves away from the second ball valve. Applying pressure to the restrictor 140, such as by applying suction to the first end 121 of the tube, squeezing or otherwise applying pressure to one or more sidewalls 203 of the beverage container 200, or rotating the attachment 100 and the beverage container 200, causes the liquid 190 to force the second ball valve 143B to disengage from the first seat 145B of the second ball valve 143B. The second ball valve 143B is then forced to move along the restrictor 140 until it contacts the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120, thereby sealing the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120. This prevents any additional liquid from flowing into the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120 while the restrictor is still in the open configuration. Thus, only a portion of the liquid 190 is able to flow into the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120 and out of the opening 118 in the top cap 110. Reapplying suction to the first end 121 of the tube 120, squeezing or otherwise reapplying pressure to one or more sidewalls 203 of the beverage container 200, or rotating the attachment 100 and beverage container 200 at a greater angle will only cause the beverage 290 to flow through the tube 120 and out of the opening 118 in the top cap 110.

[0112] In order for the user to obtain more liquid 190 from the attachment 100, the pressure in the flow restrictor 140 must be reduced so that the second ball valve 143B returns to the first seat 145B positioned in the second ball valve 143B. This can be achieved, for example, by reducing the suction on the first end 121 of the tube, reducing the pressure on one or more side walls 203 of the beverage container 200, or tipping or tilting the attachment 100 and beverage container 200, thereby causing the second ball valve 143B to return to the first seat 145B positioned in the second ball valve 143B under the influence of gravity. When the user wishes to take another sip, pressure is reapplied to the flow restrictor 140, such as by applying suction to the first end 121 of the tube, squeezing or otherwise applying pressure to one or more side walls 203 of the beverage container 200, or rotating the attachment 100 and beverage container 200, so that the liquid 190 can force the second ball valve 143B out of the first seat 145B of the second ball valve 143B. Thus, operation of the second ball valve and the second end of the top portion of the tube enables a given amount of liquid to be dispensed from the first end of the tube per sip.

[0113] exist FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D In the example shown, the restrictor 140 has a plurality of open positions, wherein at each of the plurality of open positions, a different volume of liquid 190 is able to flow from the container 130, and the restrictor 140 further translates in the first direction, as indicated by arrow A, so as to transition between each of the plurality of open positions. Fig. 12B The attachment 100 of the beverage container 200 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in a first open position, Fig. 12C The attachment 100 of the beverage container 200 is shown with the flow restrictor 140 in the second open position, and Fig.12D The current limiter 140 is shown in Fig. 12B and Fig. 12C The first and second open positions shown have attachment members 100 of a beverage container 200 in comparable positions.

[0114] The distance between the lower check valve 143B and the upper check valve 143B defines a first volume 146A of the restrictor 140 in which the liquid 190 can be collected. The distance between the first seat 145B of the second ball valve 143B and the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120 defines a second volume 146B. The amount of liquid 190 delivered per sip depends on the second volume 146B. Fig. 12B The first open position shown is translated to Fig. 12CThe second open position shown increases the distance between the first seat 145B of the second ball valve 143B and the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120, thereby increasing the second volume 146B and, therefore, the amount of liquid 190 that can be delivered per sip. This also increases the distance that the second ball valve 143B must travel in order to contact the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120. This difference in distance is shown in Fig.12D middle.

[0115] In an alternative embodiment, the first one-way valve 143A is a rubber or silicone diaphragm valve and the second one-way valve 143B is a ball valve because the first one-way valve 143A only has to prevent the liquid 190 from flowing back into the container 130, while the second one-way valve 143A is used to prevent the liquid 190 from flowing back into the container 130 between sips and limit the maximum dispensed volume of liquid 190 per sip.

[0116] Thus, there has been described another example of an attachment 100 for a beverage container 200 that can be used to sequentially dispense liquids 190 and beverages 290 having different tastant concentrations for consumption by a user in a manner that the user perceives as successive sips from the attachment.

[0117] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B 6 to 12. FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of an attachment 100 for a beverage container 200, wherein similar components shown have the same reference numerals as those used in FIGS. 6 to 12. Fig.13A and Fig. 13B In the example shown, the flow restrictor includes a plurality of ball valves 143A, 143B. The operation of the ball valves 143A, 143B is similar to that described above with reference to FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D The operation described in the illustrated example is substantially the same, except that the second seat 145C of the first ball valve 143A and the first seat 145B of the second ball valve 143B are formed as a single component. The top portion 120A of the tube 120 is also entirely contained within the top cover 110, so that when the second ball valve 143B contacts the second end 123 of the top portion 120A of the tube 120, the second ball valve 143B also contacts the top cover 110.

[0118] Thus, there has been described another example of an attachment 100 for a beverage container 200 that can be used to sequentially dispense liquids 190 and beverages 290 having different tastant concentrations for consumption by a user in a manner that the user perceives as successive sips from the attachment.

[0119] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of another example of an attachment 100 for a beverage container 200, wherein like components shown have the same reference numerals as those used in FIGS. 6 to 13.

[0120] exist Fig.14A and Fig. 14B In the example shown, the restrictor 140 has a plurality of open positions and a closed position, and the restrictor 140 is rotated so as to transition between the closed position and each of the plurality of open positions. The first end 141 of the restrictor 140 is housed in the top cover 110 and is integral with the top cover 110, so that rotating the top cover 110 causes the first end 141 of the restrictor 140 to rotate, thereby transitioning the restrictor between the closed position and each of the plurality of open positions. In some examples, the plurality of open positions may be provided as one or more discrete open positions, each of which provides a different degree of opening on a continuous or step-by-step basis.

[0121] The top portion 120A of the tube 120 is also entirely positioned within the top cover 110, so that rotating the top cover 110 causes the top portion 120A of the tube to rotate. When the restrictor 140 is in the closed position, the top portion 120A of the tube 120 is not aligned with the bottom portion 120B of the tube 120, so the beverage 290 cannot flow out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110. When the top cover 110 is rotated so that the restrictor is in one of the open positions, the top portion 120A of the tube 120 is aligned with the bottom portion 120B of the tube 120, so that the beverage 290 can flow out of the container 200, through the bottom portion 120B and the top portion 120A of the tube 120, and out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110.

[0122] exist Fig.14A and Fig. 14B In the example shown, the flow restrictor includes a ball valve 143A. The operation of the ball valve 143A is substantially the same as that described above with reference to the example shown in Figures 12 to 14, except that the upper travel of the ball valve 143A is limited by a member 149 positioned toward the first end 141 of the flow restrictor 140. The member 149 is attached to the top cover 110 so that when the top cover 110 rotates, the member 149 also rotates and translates away from the second end 147 of the flow restrictor 140. This increases the volume 146A and the distance between the member 149 and the base 145A, thereby increasing the travel range of the ball valve 143A. The flow restrictor is configured so that the member 149 passes through different angles and therefore translates different distances in each of the open positions, thereby providing a different volume of liquid 190 that can flow out of the container 130 and pass through the flow restrictor 140 in each of the multiple open positions. The member may be configured such that when the restrictor 140 is in the closed position, the member is positioned proximate the seat 145A such that the range of travel of the ball valve 143A is substantially zero.

[0123] 15 and 16 are schematic cross-sectional views of an exemplary container 130 of the attachment 100 for a beverage container 200, the exemplary container being used with Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The attachment 100 is shown for use with a beverage container 200. The exemplary container 130 shown in Figures 15 and 16 is configured to be variable volume. Fig.15A and Fig.16A The container 130 is shown in a first configuration having a first volume, and Fig. 15B and Fig. 16B Container 130 is shown in a second configuration with a second volume, respectively. The first volume is greater than the second volume, so that the first configuration can be referred to as a full configuration or an undeformed configuration, and the second configuration can be referred to as an empty configuration or a deformed configuration. In the second configuration, the volume of liquid 190 that container 130 can hold can be substantially zero.

[0124] exist Fig.15A and Fig. 15B In the example shown, the plurality of sidewalls 133 of the container 130 include one or more folds or corrugations 133A, 133B. For example, the sidewall 133 of the container 130 may include a plurality of corrugations 133A, 133B that extend substantially from the first end 131 of the container 130 to the opening 132 in the container 130, such that the sidewall forms a concertina shape. In use, as the liquid 190 flows out of the container 130, a reduction in pressure in the container 130 causes the one or more corrugations 133A, 133B to close together, thereby bringing the first end 131 of the container 130 toward the opening 132 in the container 130, thereby reducing the volume of the container 130. The one or more corrugations 133A, 133B allow the container 130 to be elastically deformable, such that a reduction in pressure inside the container 130 will cause the container 130 to deform from a first configuration to a second configuration, and an increase in pressure inside the container 130 will cause the container 130 to expand from the second configuration to the first configuration. Thus, the flow restrictor 140 may include one or more one-way valves 143A, 143B to prevent or limit the flow of liquid 190 from the flow restrictor 140 back into the container 130 .

[0125] exist Fig.16A and Fig. 16B In the example shown, a movable piston or seat 135 is disposed within the container 130. Fig.16AIn the first configuration shown, the movable base is positioned proximate the first end 131 of the container 130 so that the liquid 195 can be contained between the movable base 135 and the opening 132 in the container 130. The movable base 135 is configured to slide within the container 130, while the cross-sectional shape of the movable base 135 is configured to be substantially the same as the sidewall 133 of the container 130 so that the liquid 190 cannot flow between the movable base 135 and the sidewall 133 of the container. Thus, the movable base 135 provides a fluid-tight seal for the entire container, and in some optional examples, a sealing element is additionally used between the movable base 135 and the sidewall 133 of the container. In use, as the liquid 190 flows out of the container 130, the reduction in pressure in the container 130 causes the movable base 135 to be pulled away from the first end 131 of the container 130 and toward the opening 132 in the container 130, thereby reducing the volume of the container 130. The movable base 135 is configured to provide a friction fit against the side wall 133 of the container 130 so that the movable base can be pulled away from the first end 131 of the container 130 and towards the opening 132 in the container 130, but the movable base 135 is prevented from moving back towards the first end 131 of the container 130. This means that the volume of the container 130 can only be reduced during use, thereby preventing any pressure increase in the container 130 that would cause the fluid 190 to flow from the restrictor 140 back into the container 130.

[0126] Thus, there has been described another example of an attachment for a beverage container that can be used to sequentially dispense liquids and beverages having different tastant concentrations for consumption by a user in a manner that the user perceives as successive sips from the attachment.

[0127] In each of the embodiments shown in Figures 6 to 11, the amount of liquid 190 that the user will receive with each sip is determined by the configuration of the flow restrictor 140 and the length of time between each sip. The longer the time period between each sip, the greater the volume of liquid that can flow through the flow restrictor 140 and into the tube 120, and thus the greater the amount of liquid 190 that the user will receive in the next sip.

[0128] 12-14, the amount of liquid 190 that the user will receive with each sip is determined by the configuration of the flow restrictor 140, regardless of the amount of time between sips. Specifically, the first volume 146A and the second volume 146B of the flow restrictor 140 determine the volume of liquid 190 that can be stored in the flow restrictor 140 between sips, and therefore determine the volume of liquid 190 that will be delivered with each sip.

[0129] In each or any of the above examples, the delivery of the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 can be sequential and / or overlapping. For overlapping delivery, the liquid 190 continues to flow out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110 of the attachment 100 while the beverage 290 begins to flow out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110 of the attachment 100. In other words, the delivery of the liquid 190 out of the attachment 100 overlaps with the delivery of the beverage 290 out of the attachment 100. In an alternative approach, the liquid 190 in the attachment 100 may be drained first before the beverage 290 begins to flow out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110 of the attachment 100. In other words, the delivery of the liquid 190 out of the attachment 100 may be completed before the delivery of the second beverage 290 out of the attachment 100 begins. Depending on the taste agent characteristics of the liquid and the sensitivity of the tongue to the taste agent, the attachment can be configured to cause the fluid 190 to drain from the attachment 100 within a short period of time after the beverage 290 begins to flow out of the opening 118 in the top cover 110 of the attachment 100, thereby reducing the overlap between the delivery of the fluid 190 and the delivery of the beverage 290, while also avoiding a gap between the delivery of the liquid and the delivery of the beverage.

[0130] As described above, one of the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 includes a tastant that is substantially absent from the other liquid or that is present in a relatively different amount. The composition of the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 may be substantially the same as the concentration of the tastant. For example, the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 may be substantially the same in terms of fat, air, protein, macronutrients, and carbohydrates, so that the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 include the same components in the same relative proportions, except that there is a tastant in one of the liquid 190 and the beverage 290. The liquid 190 and the beverage 290 may look the same. For example, the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 may have the same visual appearance, such as color, structure, texture, or any other obvious and directly perceptible characteristics without tasting or smelling, so that the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 appear to have the same composition to the user of the attachment 100 of the beverage container 200. The density and / or viscosity of the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 may be substantially the same. As the skilled reader will appreciate, the detection and sensitivity to different tastants can be explained by the principles of chemical synthesis.

[0131] Tastants can be sweet, salty, bitter, fresh, sour, and can have an associated flavor or texture. For example, a salty tastant can be composed of one or more of sodium chloride, potassium chloride, and ammonium chloride. A sweet tastant can be composed of one or more of glucose, sucrose, fructose, or galactose.

[0132] Beverage 290 may be a medicine, a nutraceutical, or a dietary supplement. In this case, beverage 290 may have a bitter or sour tastant associated with the composition of the medicine, nutraceutical, or dietary supplement. This tastant may not be substantially present in liquid 190. When liquid 190 and beverage 290 are delivered from attachment 100, such as into a user's mouth, liquid 190 flows out of attachment 100 before beverage 290. Therefore, the user tastes liquid 190 before bitter or sour beverage 290, giving the user a more pleasant taste experience than when beverage 290 is delivered simultaneously with or before liquid 190.

[0133] The taste enhancer in the combination beverage of the present invention may include sodium chloride, for example, the taste enhancer may be sodium chloride. Humans have added salt (sodium chloride) to their food for thousands of years and have become accustomed to its taste. Therefore, the most desirable salty taste characteristics are obtained using sodium chloride. Sodium chloride can be used to enhance the overall flavor of food. The combination beverage according to the present method may contain 140 mg or less of sodium per 100 g of total beverage. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration stipulates that if every 100 g of meals and main dishes contain 140 mg or less of sodium, it is defined as "low sodium".

[0134] The taste enhancer in the combined beverage of the present method may include sucrose, for example, the taste enhancer may be sucrose or other sweetening components.

[0135] In the combined beverage dispensed from the attachment 100 for the beverage container 200 of this example, a portion of the liquid 190 and a portion of the beverage 290 can be drunk together, and then another portion of the liquid 190 and another portion of the beverage 290 can be drunk together. For example, the combined beverage can make a portion of the first part drinkable with a portion of the second part in a series of such combinations, such as a series of at least 3 combinations, such as a series of at least 5 combinations, such as a series of at least 10 combinations. The combined beverage of the present invention can make a large portion of the volume of the second part drinkable in a series of combinations, which together contain a portion of the first part and a portion of the second part (e.g., consist of a portion of the first part and a portion of the second part). Such a combination can be delivered by adjusting the relative flow rates of the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 from the attachment 100 of the beverage container 200 so as to change the flow overlap of the liquid 190 and the beverage 290 as described above.

[0136] Aspects of the subject matter described herein are listed in the following numbered clauses:

[0137] 1. An attachment for a beverage container, comprising:

[0138] a top cover configured to be attached to an opening in the beverage container, the top cover including an opening;

[0139] a tube passing through the top cover, wherein the opening in the top cover is positioned proximate a first end of the tube and a second end of the tube is configured to be positioned within the beverage container when the top cover is attached to the beverage container so that a beverage contained in the beverage container can flow through the tube and out of the opening in the top cover;

[0140] a container attached to the tube and configured to hold a liquid, the container including an opening to allow the liquid to flow from the container into the tube and out of the opening in the cap; and

[0141] A flow restrictor is located between the opening of the container and the tube to control and / or limit the flow of the liquid from the container into the tube, the flow restrictor and the tube being configured so that the liquid begins to leave the opening in the top cover before the beverage begins to leave the opening in the top cover.

[0142] 2. The attachment of clause 1, wherein at least a portion of the container is positioned within the cap and the tube extends through the container.

[0143] 3. The attachment of clause 2, wherein the container is positioned entirely within the cap.

[0144] 4. An attachment according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the flow restrictor has an open position and a closed position, and wherein the flow restrictor in the closed position prevents the liquid from flowing out of the container.

[0145] 5. The attachment of clause 4, wherein the restrictor translates in a first direction to transition from the closed position to the open position.

[0146] 6. The attachment of clause 4 or clause 5, wherein the flow restrictor has a plurality of open positions, and wherein in each of the plurality of open positions a different volume of the liquid is able to flow from the container.

[0147] 7. The attachment of clause 6, wherein the restrictor further translates in the first direction to transition between each of the plurality of open positions.

[0148] 8. The attachment of clause 7, wherein the flow restrictor comprises a plurality of apertures, and translating the flow restrictor in the first direction changes the number of the apertures through which the liquid can flow from the container.

[0149] 9. The attachment of clause 6, wherein the restrictor is rotated to transition between each of the plurality of open positions.

[0150] 10. An attachment according to claim 9, wherein the restrictor includes a plurality of holes, wherein each hole in the plurality of holes has a different diameter, and rotating the restrictor between each of the plurality of open positions changes the diameter of the hole through which the liquid can flow from the container.

[0151] 11. An attachment according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the container comprises a vent to allow air to enter the container.

[0152] 12. An attachment according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a second flow restrictor located within the tube to control and / or restrict the flow of the beverage through the tube and out of the opening in the cap.

[0153] 13. The attachment of clause 12, wherein the second flow restrictor is a one-way valve.

[0154] 14. An attachment according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the container is detachable from the attachment and / or the beverage container.

[0155] 15. An attachment according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the container is positioned at an end of the beverage container distal to the opening in the beverage container.

[0156] 16. An attachment according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the container is configured to be variable in volume.

[0157] 17. A container for use with an attachment according to any one of clause 14 or any clause dependent thereon, the container being configured to hold a liquid and being configured to be attached to dispense the held liquid to a tube of the attachment via an opening in the container.

[0158] 18. A beverage dispensing system comprising:

[0159] An attachment according to any one of clauses 1 to 16; and

[0160] A beverage container comprising an opening, wherein the attachment is attached to the opening.

[0161] 19. A beverage dispensing system according to clause 18, wherein:

[0162] The attachment comprises an attachment according to clause 14; and

[0163] The beverage container includes an inlet opening configured to be connected to a container to receive liquid therefrom.

[0164] 20. The beverage dispensing system according to clause 19, further comprising a container according to clause 18.

[0165] 21. An attachment for a beverage container, comprising:

[0166] a top cover configured to be attached to an opening in the beverage container, the top cover including an opening;

[0167] a tube passing through the top cover, wherein the opening in the top cover is positioned proximate a first end of the tube and a second end of the tube is configured to be positioned within the beverage container when the top cover is attached to the beverage container so that a beverage contained in the beverage container can flow through the tube and out of the top cover;

[0168] said opening;

[0169] a container attached to the tube and configured to hold a liquid, the container including an opening to allow the liquid to flow from the container into the tube and out of the opening in the header, wherein the container is positioned entirely within the header; and

[0170] A flow restrictor located between the opening of the container and the tube to control and / or

[0171] or restricting the flow of the liquid from the container into the tube, the flow restrictor and the tube being configured such that the liquid begins to leave the opening in the top cover before the beverage begins to leave the opening in the top cover, wherein the flow restrictor has an open position and a closed position, the flow restrictor in the closed position preventing the liquid from flowing out of the container, and the flow restrictor translates in a first direction to transition from the closed position to the open position.

[0172] 22. An attachment for a beverage container, comprising:

[0173] a top cover configured to be attached to an opening in the beverage container, the top cover including an opening;

[0174] a tube passing through the top cover, wherein the opening in the top cover is positioned proximate a first end of the tube and a second end of the tube is configured to be positioned within the beverage container when the top cover is attached to the beverage container so that a beverage contained in the beverage container can flow through the tube and out of the top cover;

[0175] said opening;

[0176] a container attached to the tube and configured to hold a liquid, the container including an opening to allow the liquid to flow from the container into the tube and out of the opening in the cap; and

[0177] A flow restrictor, the flow restrictor being located between the opening of the container and the tube to control and / or restrict the flow of the liquid from the container into the tube, the flow restrictor and the tube being configured such that the liquid begins to leave the opening in the top cover before the beverage begins to leave the opening in the top cover, wherein the flow restrictor has a closed position and a plurality of open positions, wherein the flow restrictor in the closed position prevents the liquid from flowing out of the container, and in each of the plurality of open positions, a different volume of liquid can flow out of the container, the flow restrictor translates in a first direction to transition from the closed position to one of the plurality of open positions, and the flow restrictor rotates to transition between each of the plurality of open positions.

[0178] 23. An attachment for a beverage container, comprising:

[0179] a top cover configured to be attached to an opening in the beverage container, the top cover including an opening;

[0180] a tube passing through the top cover, wherein the opening in the top cover is positioned proximate a first end of the tube and a second end of the tube is configured to be positioned within the beverage container when the top cover is attached to the beverage container so that a beverage contained in the beverage container can flow through the tube and out of the top cover;

[0181] said opening;

[0182] a container attached to the tube and configured to hold a liquid, the container including an opening to allow the liquid to flow from the container into the tube and out of the opening in the cap; and

[0183] A flow restrictor, the flow restrictor being located between the opening of the container and the tube to control and / or restrict the flow of the liquid from the container into the tube, the flow restrictor and the tube being configured such that the liquid begins to leave the opening in the top cover before the beverage begins to leave the opening in the top cover, wherein the flow restrictor has a closed position and a plurality of open positions, wherein the flow restrictor in the closed position prevents the liquid from flowing out of the container, and in each of the plurality of open positions, a different volume of liquid can flow out of the container, the flow restrictor being translated in a first direction to transition from the closed position to one of the plurality of open positions, and the flow restrictor being further translated in the first direction to transition between each of the plurality of open positions.

[0184] 24. An attachment for a beverage container, comprising:

[0185] a top cover configured to be attached to an opening in the beverage container, the top cover including an opening;

[0186] a tube passing through the top cover, wherein the opening in the top cover is positioned proximate a first end of the tube and a second end of the tube is configured to be positioned within the beverage container when the top cover is attached to the beverage container so that a beverage contained in the beverage container can flow through the tube and out of the opening in the top cover;

[0187] a container attached to the tube and positioned at an end of the beverage container distal from an opening in the beverage container, the container being configured to hold a liquid, the container including an opening to allow liquid to flow from the container into the tube and out of the opening in the cap, wherein the container is detachable from the attachment, and the beverage container and the container are configured to be variable in volume; and

[0188] a flow restrictor located between the opening of the container and the tube to control and / or limit the flow of the liquid from the container into the tube, the flow restrictor and the tube being configured so that the liquid begins to leave the opening in the top cover first,

[0189] Only then does the beverage begin to leave the opening in the top cover.

[0190] The skilled person will appreciate that these embodiments are provided by way of example only, and that different features in different embodiments may be appropriately combined without departing from the essence and scope of the present teachings. Therefore, the scope of the invention protected by the claims is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An attachment for a beverage container, comprising: a top cover configured to be attached to an opening in the beverage container, the top cover including an opening; a tube passing through the top cover, wherein the opening in the top cover is positioned proximate a first end of the tube and a second end of the tube is configured to be positioned within the beverage container when the top cover is attached to the beverage container so that a beverage contained in the beverage container can flow through the tube and out of the opening in the top cover; a container attached to the tube and configured to hold a liquid, the container including an opening to allow the liquid to flow from the container into the tube and out of the opening in the cap; a flow restrictor located between the opening of the container and the tube to control and / or limit the flow of the liquid from the container into the tube, the flow restrictor and the tube being configured such that the liquid begins to leave the opening in the top cover before the beverage begins to leave the opening in the top cover; as well as a second flow restrictor positioned within the tube to control and / or limit the flow of the beverage through the tube and out of the opening in the cap, wherein the second flow restrictor is a one-way valve, wherein the flow restrictor has an open position and a closed position, and wherein the flow restrictor in the closed position prevents the liquid from flowing out of the container, and Wherein the restrictor translates in a first direction to transition from the closed position to the open position. 2 . The attachment of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the container is positioned within the cap and the tube extends through the container.

3. An attachment according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the flow restrictor has a plurality of open positions, and wherein in each of the plurality of open positions a different volume of the liquid can flow from the container.

4. An attachment according to claim 3, wherein the restrictor is further translated in the first direction to transition between each of the plurality of open positions, and wherein the restrictor includes a plurality of holes, and translating the restrictor in the first direction changes the number of the holes through which the liquid can flow from the container.

5. An attachment according to claim 3, wherein the restrictor is rotated to transition between each of the plurality of open positions, and wherein the restrictor includes a plurality of holes, wherein each of the plurality of holes has a different diameter, and rotating the restrictor between each of the plurality of open positions changes the diameter of the hole through which the liquid can flow from the container.

6. An attachment according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the container includes a vent to allow air to enter the container.

7. An attachment according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the container is detachable from the attachment and / or the beverage container.

8. An attachment according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the container is positioned at an end of the beverage container distal to the opening in the beverage container.

9. An attachment according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the container is configured to be variable in volume.

10. Beverage dispensing system, comprising: An attachment according to any one of claims 1 to 9; as well as A beverage container comprising an opening, wherein the attachment is attached to the opening.

11. The beverage dispensing system of claim 10, wherein: The attachment comprises the attachment according to claim 7; and The beverage container includes an inlet opening configured to be connected to a container to receive liquid therefrom.

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