Limited Flow Cup

Abstract

A limited flow drinking cup for repeatedly dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid to a user each time it is tilted into a drinking position comprises an outer cup, an inner cup nested within the outer cup, the inner cup configured to contain a supply of liquid in a main liquid reservoir and in fluid communication with the outer cup, and c) an angled transfer reservoir formed when the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup and configured to meter a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the transfer reservoir being in fluid communication with the supply of liquid contained in the inner cup via a first transfer slot, the angled transfer reservoir being configured to provide a ramp for air bubbles to rise and migrate into the main liquid reservoir.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 211,753, filed June 17, 2021, which is incorporated herein in its entirety. [Background technology]

[0002] SUMMARY The present disclosure relates to limited flow cups and methods of making and using same.

[0003] Dysphagia is a condition characterized by difficulty swallowing food and liquids and may be present in patients suffering from stroke, head trauma, neurological disorders, and other cognitive and motor problems. It may also occur as a result of aging, disability, or as a temporary symptom following surgery. As a result of dysphagia, patients may suffer from dehydration and nutritional deficiencies.

[0004] When a person with dysphagia attempts to swallow a thin liquid, the bolus tends to pass through the bronchi into the lungs, which can cause aspiration leading to coughing, choking, and even pneumonia. To maintain nutrition and hydration, such patients are typically given very small boluses, typically about a teaspoon. Such small boluses are often easily managed without aspiration issues. A variety of devices, liquid thickeners, and other products have been developed in the past to assist patients with dysphagia, but these are usually unable to deliver consistent volumes through the normal act of drinking without the assistance of a caregiver.

[0005] Limited-flow drinking cups are designed to deliver a constant, metered amount of liquid to a user. A typical limited-flow cup includes a cup body having a cover that defines an opening through which liquid can pass. The measurement is provided in a three-piece assembly including (a) the cover, (b) a tube secured to the cover at the opening and extending below the cup body, and (c) a small measuring cup attached to the lower end of the tube and housed within the cup itself. The measuring cup has an open end that is generally oriented horizontally. Prior to drinking, the cup body contains liquid to a predetermined liquid level, the measuring cup is full of liquid, and the tube is filled with liquid to the liquid level within the cup body. The measuring cup and the portion of the tube that is below the liquid level within the cup body together define a metering chamber having a limited volume. When the user tilts the limited-flow cup into a drinking position, the liquid in the metering chamber flows out of the opening through the tube to the user. When the cup body is in the drinking position, the open end of the measuring cup normally extends above the liquid level in the cup body, such that liquid cannot flow into the measuring cup, so that only the amount in the metering chamber is dispensed during one drinking action.

[0006] U.S. Patent Nos. 6,755,318 and 7,854,342 disclose certain limited flow cups. The cups were designed such that after a user took a sip, air was trapped in the metering chamber, and subsequent uses may result in less than the desired volume of liquid being dispensed. This problem is solved by the present limited flow cup disclosed herein and described in detail below, in which the redesigned cup prevents air from being trapped and consistently dispenses a specific desired volume, e.g., 5 cc (cubic centimeters = milliliters), to the user utilizing the present venting system.

[0007] Accordingly, the present disclosure hereby provides solutions to these and other problems, both recognized and unrecognized in other arts. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present disclosure relates to limited flow cups and methods of making and using same. In certain embodiments, provided herein is a limited flow drinking cup for repeatedly dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid to a user each time the cup is tilted to a drinking position. In embodiments, the limited flow cup comprises an outer cup, an inner cup, a transfer reservoir, and a straw configured to dispense a predetermined amount of liquid to a user. In certain embodiments, the limited flow cup comprises: a) the outer cup; b) an inner cup nested within the outer cup, the inner cup configured to contain a supply of liquid in a main liquid reservoir and in fluid communication with the outer cup; and c) an angled transfer reservoir formed when the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup and configured to meter a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the transfer reservoir in fluid communication with the supply of liquid contained within the inner cup via a first transfer slot, the angled transfer reservoir configured to provide a ramp for air bubbles to rise and migrate into the main liquid reservoir to prevent air bubbles from becoming trapped within the transfer reservoir.

[0009] In another particular embodiment, the limited flow cup comprises: a) an outer cup; b) an inner cup nested within the outer cup, the inner cup configured to contain a supply of liquid and in fluid communication with the outer cup; c) a transfer reservoir formed when the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup and configured to meter a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the transfer reservoir in fluid communication with the supply of liquid contained in the inner cup via a first transfer slot; and d) a straw configured to dispense a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the straw in fluid communication with the transfer reservoir via a second transfer slot, wherein the transfer reservoir fills with liquid to provide a metered predetermined amount of liquid when in an upright position and becomes unfilled when the cup is tilted to a drinking position, providing a single predetermined amount of liquid to the user, and the transfer reservoir is further configured to prevent air from migrating into the inner cup and remaining trapped within the transfer reservoir or the straw. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front view of an exemplary limited flow cup 100. [Diagram 2] 2 is a close-up view of the exemplary limited flow cup 100 from FIG. 1 showing the lid 204, inner cup 203 and outer cup 202. [Diagram 3] 2 is a side view of an exemplary outer cup 202 showing the handle 305, the notch locking / seating feature 306, and the lip feature 308 of the notch locking / seating feature 306. FIG. [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional view of the outer cup 202 of FIG. 3 showing the cavity 407, the inner side 425 of the cavity 407, and the bottom inner surface 428 of the cavity 407. [Diagram 5] 1 is an upright view of the inner cup 203 showing the flange 511, straw 512, straw forming surface 513, front tub lock / seating feature 518, inner cup duct wall 522, and outer surface 524 of the inner cup 203. [Figure 6] An upright view of the inner cup 203 showing the mouthpiece 609, mouthpiece channel 610, vents 621 and outer tab lock / seating mechanism 627. [Figure 7] 1 is an inverted view of the inner cup 203 showing the second transfer slot 714, the third transfer slot 716 and the outer bottom surface 720. [Figure 8] 1 is an inverted view of inner cup 203 showing second transfer slot 714, transfer reservoir 815, first transfer slot 817, underside 819 and backtab lock / seating mechanism 826. [Figure 9] A cross-sectional view of the inner cup 203 showing the transfer reservoir 815, the mouthpiece channel 610, the straw 512, the second transfer slot 714, the first transfer slot 817, the vent hole 621 and the angled top surface 929 of the transfer reservoir 815. [Figure 10] 10 is a cross-sectional view of the inner cup 203 of FIG. 9 showing the transfer reservoir 815, the mouthpiece channel 610 and the main fluid / liquid reservoir 1023. [Figure 11]11 is an enlarged view of the lid 204 showing the duct 1134. [Figure 12] 6. An inverted close-up view of the lid 204 showing two seal beads 1230 surrounding the lid forming the duct 1134, the lid vent 1231, the duct vent 1232, and the gap 1235 that fits the mouthpiece 609 of FIG. 6 when the lid is placed in the limited flow cup 100. [Figure 13] 13 is an inverted close-up view of the lid 204 showing the duct vent 1232, the lid removal tab 1333, the duct 1134 and the flange 1336. [Figure 14] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled limited flow cup 100 of FIG. 1 showing the outer cup 202, the inner cup 203 fully seated within the outer cup 202, the lid 204, and the maximum fill line 1440 for dispensing liquid. [Figure 15] 2. A cross-sectional view of the assembled limited flow cup 100 of FIG. 1 showing the supply of liquid 1543 in the main fluid / liquid reservoir 1023 of the inner cup 203 of FIG. 2 and the straw 512. [Figure 16] 2 is a cross-sectional view of the assembled limited flow cup 100 of FIG. 1 in a tilted angled position prior to drinking, showing the straw 512, vent hole 621, liquid supply 1543 and transfer reservoir end 1645. [Figure 17] A cross-sectional view of the assembled limited flow cup 100 of Figure 1 in a tilted drinking angle position showing the straw 512, the second transfer slot 714, the transfer reservoir 815, the first transfer slot 817, the supply of liquid 1543, and the dispensing of a predetermined amount of liquid 1744. [Figure 18] 1 in an upright position, showing the straw 512, the second transfer slot 714, the transfer reservoir 815, the first transfer slot 817, and the liquid level 1846. [Figure 19] An enlarged cross-sectional view of the limited flow cup 100 showing the inner cup 203, outer cup 202 and lid 204, as well as the mouthpiece channel 610, vent 621, lid vent 1231, duct vent 1232, duct 1134 and outer / inner cup seal line 1950. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] The present disclosure relates to a cup that provides limited release of fluid contained therein. Additionally, the limited flow cup is configured to overcome previous problems with repeated use where air becomes trapped in the transfer reservoir. This is accomplished by providing a main liquid reservoir in the inner cup that is in fluid communication with the transfer reservoir via a first transfer slot, with the top of the transfer reservoir angled to provide a ramp through which air bubbles can rise and migrate to the main liquid reservoir. Such a configuration allows for improved use of the limited flow cup for the user, particularly repeated use, and ensures that the user obtains the same amount of liquid as desired.

[0012] In certain embodiments provided herein, a limited flow cup for repeatedly dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid to a user each time it is tilted into a drinking position comprises: a) an outer cup; b) an inner cup nested within the outer cup, the inner cup configured to contain a supply of liquid in a main liquid reservoir and in fluid communication with the outer cup; and c) an angled transfer reservoir formed when the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup and configured to meter a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the transfer reservoir in fluid communication with the supply of liquid contained in the inner cup via a first transfer slot, the angled transfer reservoir configured to provide a ramp for air bubbles to rise and migrate into the main liquid reservoir to prevent air bubbles from becoming trapped in the transfer reservoir.

[0013] In other specific embodiments provided herein, a limited flow drinking cup for dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid to a user each time it is tilted into a drinking position comprises: a) an outer cup; b) an inner cup nested within the outer cup, the inner cup configured to contain a supply of liquid and in fluid communication with the outer cup; c) a transfer reservoir formed when the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup and configured to meter a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the transfer reservoir in fluid communication with the supply of liquid contained within the inner cup via a first transfer slot; and d) a straw configured to dispense a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the straw in fluid communication with the transfer reservoir via a second transfer slot, the transfer reservoir being filled with liquid when in an upright position to provide a metered predetermined amount of liquid and unfilled with liquid when the cup is tilted in a drinking position to provide a single predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the transfer reservoir being further configured to prevent air from migrating into the inner cup and remaining trapped within the transfer reservoir or straw, as described in additional detail below.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the limited flow cup 100 comprises an outer cup 202, an inner cup 203 and a lid 204. In an embodiment, the outer cup 202 may be constructed of any suitable material for containing liquid, preferably a hard plastic or a lightweight metal such as aluminum, and comprises locking mechanisms 306 and 308 for locking the inner cup 203 in place and fully seating it within the outer cup 202, and a main cavity 407 disposed in the inner cup 203 for assembling the limited flow cup 100. In an embodiment, the main cavity 407 of the outer cup 202 preferably has a circular cross section, although one skilled in the art will appreciate that the shape may vary and that in certain embodiments, the inner cup 203 is locked and seated within the outer cup 202 via the locking mechanisms 306 and 308. In an embodiment, the outer cup 202 further comprises a handle 305 for ease of control and use of the limited flow cup 100. See FIGS. 1-4. In certain embodiments, the limited flow cup 100 may include one handle 305 on either the left or right depending on the user, and in other certain embodiments, the limited flow cup 100 includes two handles 305. In embodiments, the placement of the handle 305 is achieved by placing the inner cup 203 within the inner side 202 and rotating it 180 degrees to change the orientation of the handle 305 relative to the position of the mouthpiece 609 to accommodate a right-handed or left-handed user.

[0015] In the embodiments provided herein, the inner cup 203 includes a front tab lock / seating feature 518 and a back tab lock / seating feature 627, each configured to mate with the locking feature 306 of the outer cup 202 and fully seat while locked with the lip lock / seating feature 627 via the lip feature 308. In further embodiments, the inner cup 203 includes a straw 512 connected to the mouthpiece 610. In certain embodiments, the inner cup 203 includes a transfer reservoir 815 in fluid communication with the main liquid reservoir 1023 via a first transfer slot 817, providing an arrangement for filling the transfer reservoir 815 with a predetermined amount of liquid when the limited flow cup 100 is in an upright non-drinking angle position. See Figures 5 and 6 for upright views of the inner cup 203, Figures 7 and 8 for inverted views of the inner cup 203, and Figures 9 and 10 for cross-sectional views of the inner cup 203. In an embodiment, the transfer reservoir 815 is in fluid communication with the straw 518 via the second transfer slot 714 and provides a configuration for dispensing a metered amount of liquid when the limited flow cup 100 is in a tilted drinking angle position. See FIG.

[0016] In a particular embodiment, the inner cup 203 is constructed of a flexible rubber, but can be made of a variety of materials, including silicone and thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs). In an embodiment, the surface 524 of the inner cup 203 generally conforms to the shape of the outer cup 202 to ensure a strong bond between the outer cup 202 and the inner cup 203. The front tab lock / seating feature 518 and the back tab lock / seating feature 826 are positioned to slide into the notch lock / seating feature 306 of the outer cup 202 and lock into place when the locking tab lip lock / seating feature 627 is positioned into the locking notch lip feature 308. In a particular embodiment, the front tab lock / seating feature 518 is positioned on the side of the cup that includes the straw 512, straw surface 513, and lip lock / seating feature 627 components of 518, and is positioned on the side of the limited flow cup 100 that includes the mouthpiece 609 and mouthpiece channel 610. When locked in place, the straw front surface 513 and back surface 819 fit closely with the inner surface of the outer cup 425 such that a seal is formed around a portion of the straw 512. In an embodiment, the inner cup 203 also includes a transfer reservoir 815 preferably disposed on the outer surface of the bottom surface 720 of the inner cup 203. The transfer reservoir 815 is preferably in fluid communication with the first transfer slot 817 and the second transfer slot 714. When the bottom surface 720 of the inner cup is pressed against the bottom surface 428 of the outer cup, a similar sealing arrangement is created around the transfer reservoir 815. The flange 511 of the inner cup 203 aids in the fit between the inner cup 203 and the outer cup 202 to minimize fluid leakage.

[0017] In an embodiment, the first transfer slot 817 allows for fluid flow between the main liquid reservoir 1023 and the transfer reservoir 815. The size of the transfer reservoir 815 determines the amount of each drink the user will get. In a particular embodiment, the limited flow cup 100 provides the user with 5 ml (5 cc) of liquid per drink. In another particular embodiment, the limited flow cup 100 provides the user with 10 ml (10 cc) of liquid per drink. In an embodiment, to minimize air trapped between each drink (e.g., a single dispense of a given amount of liquid), the transfer reservoir 815 tapers (i.e., narrows) as it approaches the straw 512 to help remove trapped air bubbles as the flow rate increases. In an embodiment, the taper is angled upwards toward the first transfer slot 817, allowing air bubbles to migrate upward and out of the transfer reservoir 815. Thus, the transfer reservoir 815 is tilted upwardly toward the first transfer slot 817 (e.g., tilted top surface 929) as shown in FIG. 9, so that when the cup is placed in an upright position after drinking, liquid moves through the first transfer slot 817 and into the transfer reservoir 815, while air within the transfer reservoir 815 moves smoothly or swirls up through the first transfer slot 817.

[0018] In an embodiment, a second transfer slot 714 exists between the transfer reservoir 815 and the straw 512 as a conduit for fluid transfer. Fluid flows through the straw 512 and then through the mouthpiece 609 via the mouthpiece channel 610 and into the user's mouth. A mouthpiece vent 621 communicates with the mouthpiece channel 610 and is part of an airflow mechanism that assists the lid 204 in dispensing only a predetermined amount of liquid to the user, as metered by the transfer reservoir 815.

[0019] In certain embodiments provided herein, there is a lid 204 as illustrated in Figures 11-13. In embodiments, the lid 204 is manufactured using a hard plastic, but can be made from a variety of materials. The lid 204 includes a flange 1336 that provides a stop position for the flange 511 of the inner cup 203. In embodiments, a removal tab 1333 is included to aid in removing the lid 204 from the inner cup 203 after use for cleaning.

[0020] In an embodiment, the lid 204 includes a gap 1235 to fit around the mouthpiece 609. In a preferred embodiment, the two sealing beads 1230 completely surround the lid 204 such that a duct 1134 is formed between the two sealing beads 1230. In an embodiment, the lid 204 includes a duct vent 1232 connecting the duct 1134 to the underside of the lid 204. The lid vent 1231 connects the underside of the lid 204 to the outside air. The conduit formed by the mouthpiece channel 610, the mouthpiece vent 621, the duct 1134, the duct vent 1232, and the lid vent 1231 prevents the user from sucking excess liquid from the main reservoir 1023 since any sucking action sucks air from outside the limited flow cup 100 without sucking additional liquid.

[0021] In an embodiment, the limited flow cup 100 includes a vent system that prevents excess liquid from being dispensed to the user. The vent system is configured such that when the user sucks on the mouthpiece (e.g., when the user sucks on a straw), the vent system acts as a bypass and does not suck up any fluid.

[0022] 14 and 15 show a cross section of an assembled limited flow cup 100 with the main fluid reservoir 1023 filled below the "max fill" line 1440 ("fill line"), which indicates the amount of liquid 1543 the cup can hold without clogging the vent or causing a continuous flow when the cup is tilted to take a drink. Note that in this position, the liquid level in the straw 512 is the same as the liquid level in the main reservoir 1023.

[0023] The assembled cup 100, with the inner cup 203 fully seated within the outer cup 202, is shown partially tilted in Figure 16 and at a tilted drinking angle in Figure 17. When the limited flow cup 100 is tilted, the fluid level in the straw 512 rises. The maximum fill line 1440 is set so that when tilted, the fluid level is below the transfer reservoir end 1645 before the fluid level in the straw 512 reaches the mouthpiece vent 621. This is to allow the user to aspirate only the contents of the transfer reservoir 815 and straw 512 before air can enter from outside the cup 100 through the mouthpiece vent 621. After a predetermined amount of liquid (e.g., a beverage) has been dispensed to the user, the limited flow cup 100 is again placed in an upright position and some of the liquid has been drained from the main liquid reservoir 1023 to allow liquid to refill the transfer reservoir 815 and straw 512 via the first transfer slot 817 and second transfer slot 714 to a slightly lower level 1846. See FIG. 18. The drinking process is then repeated.

[0024] The venting process of the limited flow cup 100 will be explained in more detail with the aid of Fig. 19. The mouthpiece channel 610 is attached to the two arms of the duct 1134 via the mouthpiece vent 621. The duct 1134 transmits the airflow from the outside air through the duct vent 1232 and the lid vent 1231. The lid vent 1231 is located on the opposite side of the mouthpiece 609 so that the hole is not blocked by liquid during drinking. The purpose of this venting system is that if the user tries to suck the fluid out instead of simply pouring it into the mouth, the venting system will start sucking in air once the fluid from the straw 512 and transfer reservoir 815 is emptied.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the limited flow cup 100, including each of its three parts / components (lid 204, outer cup 202, and inner cup 203), are each made from materials that are compatible for hand washing and / or use in a dishwasher, as will be understood by those skilled in the art to include various plastics, silicones, lightweight metals and alloys (such as aluminum), and other well-known food-safe manufacturing materials.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the limited flow cup 100 and its three components (lid 204, outer cup 202, and inner cup 203) are manufactured by molding each of the three components separately using processes well known in the art. Once molded, the three components are assembled to provide the limited flow cup 100.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides the following specific embodiments of the limited flow cup.

[0028] Specific embodiment A: A limited flow drinking cup 100 for dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid to a user each time the cup is tilted into a drinking position, comprising: a) an outer cup 202; b) an inner cup 203 nested within the outer cup 202, the inner cup 203 configured to contain a supply of liquid 1543 in a main liquid reservoir 1023, the inner cup 203 in fluid communication with the outer cup 202; and c) a transfer reservoir 815 formed when the inner cup 203 is fully seated within the outer cup 202, the transfer reservoir 815 configured to meter a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the transfer reservoir 815 transferring the supply of liquid 1543 contained within the inner cup 203 via a first transfer slot 817. a transfer reservoir 815 in fluid communication with the object; and d) a straw 512 configured to dispense a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the straw 512 in fluid communication with the transfer reservoir 815 via a second transfer slot 714, the transfer reservoir 815 configured to be filled with liquid when in an upright position to provide a metered, predetermined amount of liquid and not filled when the cup is tilted to a drinking position to provide a single, predetermined amount of liquid to the user, the transfer reservoir 815 further configured to prevent air from migrating into the inner cup 203 and remaining trapped within the transfer reservoir 815 or the straw 512.

[0029] Particular embodiment B: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment A, further comprising a lid 204.

[0030] Particular embodiment C: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment B, wherein the lid 204 includes a lid removal tab 1333.

[0031] Particular embodiment D: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment B, wherein the lid 204 is provided with a vent system (1230, 1134, 1231, 1232) that prevents excess liquid from being dispensed to the user when seated on the outer cup and inner cup assembly.

[0032] Particular embodiment E: the limited flow cup of particular embodiment A, wherein the inner cup 203 comprises a flexible rubber polymer.

[0033] Particular embodiment F: the limited flow cup of particular embodiment A, wherein the inner cup 203 comprises a silicone polymer.

[0034] Particular embodiment G: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment A, wherein the transfer reservoir 815 has a top surface angle 929 from the second transfer slot 714 to the first transfer slot 817 that is greater than 3° to allow air bubbles to move from the transfer reservoir 815 to the main liquid reservoir 1023.

[0035] Particular embodiment H: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment A, wherein the transfer reservoir 815 has side walls that slope at an angle of about 5° to about 20° from the first transfer slot 714 to the second transfer slot 817. See Figures 7 and 8.

[0036] Particular embodiment I: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment B, wherein the lid 204 includes a gap for the mouthpiece 1235 of the inner cup 203 that aligns the outer cup 202, the inner cup 203 and the lid 204.

[0037] Specific embodiment J: The limited flow cup of specific embodiment A, where the inner cup 203 is fully seated within the outer cup 202 via a tab locking / seating feature (518 / 826,627) that mates with a notch locking / seating feature (306 / 308).

[0038] Particular embodiment K: The limited flow cup of any preceding particular embodiment further comprises a liquid.

[0039] Specific embodiment L: A method of using the limited flow cup of any preceding specific embodiment, comprising filling and / or drinking the liquid contained within the cup.

[0040] Particular embodiment M: A method of manufacturing a limited flow cup of any one of particular embodiments A-K includes joining an outer cup 202 and an inner cup 203 to provide an assembled limited flow cup 100, where fluid can be contained within the limited flow cup 100 and an amount of contained fluid that is released when the assembled cup is tilted is limited. See FIG. 17.

[0041] Specific embodiment AA: A limited flow drinking cup that repeatedly dispenses a predetermined amount of liquid to a user each time it is tilted into a drinking position comprises: a) an outer cup; b) an inner cup nested within the outer cup, the inner cup configured to contain a supply of liquid in a main liquid reservoir and in fluid communication with the outer cup; and c) an angled transfer reservoir formed when the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup and configured to meter a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the transfer reservoir in fluid communication with the supply of liquid contained in the inner cup via a first transfer slot, the angled transfer reservoir configured to provide a ramp for air bubbles to rise and migrate into the main liquid reservoir to prevent air bubbles from becoming trapped in the transfer reservoir.

[0042] Specific embodiment BB: The limited flow cup of claim 1, comprising a straw configured to dispense a predetermined amount of liquid to a user, the straw in fluid communication with the angled transfer reservoir via the second transfer slot.

[0043] Particular embodiment CC: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment AA, further comprising a venting system that prevents excess liquid from being dispensed to the user.

[0044] Particular embodiment DD: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment AA further comprising a lid.

[0045] Particular embodiment EE: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment DD, wherein the lid comprises a lid removal tab.

[0046] Specific embodiment FF: The limited flow cup of specific embodiment DD, wherein the lid includes a vent system that prevents excess liquid from being dispensed to the user when seated on the outer cup and inner cup assembly.

[0047] Specific embodiment GG: The limited flow cup of specific embodiment CC or FF, wherein the vent system includes a channel, a mouthpiece vent, a duct, a duct vent, and a lid vent, and the vent system prevents the user from sucking excess liquid out of the main reservoir.

[0048] Particular embodiment HH: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment AA, wherein the inner cup comprises a flexible rubber polymer.

[0049] Particular embodiment II: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment AA, wherein the inner cup comprises silicone or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

[0050] Particular embodiment JJ: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment DD, wherein the lid includes a lid flange that provides clearance for the mouthpiece of the inner cup and / or a stop position against the flange of the inner cup.

[0051] Specific embodiment KK: The limited flow cup of specific embodiment AA, wherein the angled transfer reservoir has a top surface angle from the second transfer slot to the first transfer slot that is greater than 3° to allow air bubbles to migrate from the transfer reservoir to the main liquid reservoir.

[0052] Particular embodiment LL: The limited flow cup of particular embodiment AA, wherein the transfer reservoir has a sidewall that slopes at an angle of about 5° to about 20° from the first transfer slot to the second transfer slot.

[0053] Specific embodiment MM: The limited flow cup of specific embodiment AA, wherein the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup via a tab locking / seating mechanism that mates with a notch locking / seating mechanism.

[0054] Specific embodiment NN: The limited flow cup of specific embodiment BB, wherein the main liquid reservoir includes a fill line configured such that when the limited flow cup is tilted, the liquid level is located below the transfer reservoir end of the first transfer slot before the liquid level in the straw reaches the mouthpiece vent.

[0055] Other specific embodiments and aspects of the present disclosure will be apparent to those of skill in the art.

[0056] Terms such as "about," "approximately," and the like, when preceding a list or range of numerical values, refer independently to each value in the list or range as if each value in the list or range were immediately preceding the term. These terms mean that the value to which the same term refers is exactly the same as, close to, or similar to that value. "Any" or "optionally" means that the event or circumstance described thereafter may or may not occur, and the description includes instances in which the event or circumstance occurs and instances in which it does not occur. Ranges may be expressed herein as from one particular value and / or to another particular value. When such a range is expressed, the other aspect includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values ​​are expressed as approximations, it will be understood that the particular value forms the other aspect by use of the antecedent "about" or "approximately." It will further be understood that the endpoints of each range are significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint. A range (eg, 90-100%) is meant to include not only the range itself but also each individual value within the range, as if each value was listed individually.

[0057] All documents cited within this disclosure are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Certain embodiments are further described in the following examples. These embodiments are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any way.

[0058] While a particular embodiment has been described in terms of a preferred embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that variations and modifications occur, and it is therefore intended that the appended claims cover all equivalent variations that fall within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

**Claim 1** A limited flow drinking cup for repeatedly dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid to a user each time it is tilted to a drinking position, a) an outer cup, and b) an inner cup disposed concentrically within the outer cup and configured to receive a supply of liquid in a main liquid reservoir, the inner cup being in fluid communication with the outer cup, and c) an angled transfer reservoir formed when the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup and configured to meter the predetermined amount of liquid to the user, the transfer reservoir being in fluid communication with the supply of liquid contained within the inner cup via a first transfer slot comprising The limited flow drinking cup, wherein the angled transfer reservoir is configured to provide an inclined path for air bubbles to rise and move to the main liquid reservoir so that air bubbles are not trapped in the transfer reservoir. **Claim 2** The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 1, further comprising a straw configured to dispense the predetermined amount of liquid to the user, the straw being in fluid communication with the angled transfer reservoir via a second transfer slot. **Claim 3** The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 1, further comprising a ventilation system for preventing excess liquid from being dispensed to the user. **Claim 4** The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 1, further comprising a lid. **Claim 5** The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 4, wherein the lid comprises a lid removal tab. **Claim 6** The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 4, wherein the lid comprises a ventilation system for preventing excess liquid from being dispensed to the user when seated on the assembly of the outer cup and the inner cup. **Claim 7** The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 3 or 6, wherein the ventilation system comprises a channel, a mouthpiece vent hole, a duct, a duct vent hole, and a lid vent hole for preventing the user from sucking out excess liquid from the main liquid reservoir. **Claim 8** The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 1, wherein the inner cup comprises a flexible rubber polymer. **Claim 9** The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 1, wherein the inner cup comprises silicone or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). **Claim 10** The lid according to claim 4, wherein the lid comprises a lid flange that provides a gap for the mouthpiece of the inner cup and / or a stop position for the flange of the inner cup.

11. The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 1, wherein the angled transfer reservoir has an upper surface angle greater than 3° from the second transfer slot to the first transfer slot for air bubbles to move from the transfer reservoir to the main liquid reservoir.

12. The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 1, wherein the transfer reservoir comprises side walls inclined at an angle of about 5 to 20° from the first transfer slot to the second transfer slot.

13. The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 1, wherein the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup via a tab lock / seat mechanism that mates with a notch lock / seat mechanism.

14. The limited flow drinking cup according to claim 2, wherein the main liquid reservoir comprises a fill line configured such that when the limited flow drinking cup is tilted, the liquid level in the straw is below the transfer reservoir end of the first transfer slot before the liquid level reaches the mouthpiece vent hole.

15. A limited flow drinking cup for dispensing a predetermined amount of liquid to a user each time it is tilted to a drinking position, a) an outer cup, b) an inner cup disposed coaxially within the outer cup and configured to contain a supply of liquid in a main liquid reservoir and in fluid communication with the outer cup, c) a transfer reservoir formed when the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup and configured to meter the predetermined amount of liquid to the user, the transfer reservoir being in fluid communication with the supply of liquid contained within the inner cup via a first transfer slot, d) a straw configured to dispense the predetermined amount of liquid to the user, the straw being in fluid communication with the transfer reservoir via a second transfer slot and wherein the transfer reservoir is angled to provide a ramp that allows air to escape from the inner cup and prevents it from being trapped within the transfer reservoir or the straw. When in the upright position, the transfer reservoir is filled with the liquid that supplies the measured predetermined amount of liquid, and when the cup is tilted to the drinking position that supplies the user with a predetermined amount of liquid at one time, it becomes unfilled, a limited-flow drinking cup.

16. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 15, further comprising a ventilation system that prevents excess liquid from being dispensed to the user.

17. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 15, further comprising a lid.

18. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 17, wherein the lid includes a lid removal tab.

19. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 17, wherein the lid includes a ventilation system that prevents excess liquid from being dispensed to the user when seated on the assembly of the outer cup and the inner cup.

20. The ventilation system of the limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 16 or 19 includes a channel, a mouthpiece vent hole, a duct, a duct vent hole, and a lid vent hole, and prevents the user from sucking out excess liquid from the main liquid reservoir.

21. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 15, wherein the inner cup includes a flexible rubber polymer.

22. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 15, wherein the inner cup includes silicone or thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).

23. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 17, wherein the lid includes a lid flange that provides a gap for the mouthpiece of the inner cup and / or a stop position for the flange of the inner cup.

24. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 15, wherein the transfer reservoir has an upper surface angle greater than 3° from the second transfer slot to the first transfer slot for bubbles to move from the transfer reservoir to the main liquid reservoir.

25. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 15, wherein the transfer reservoir includes side walls inclined at an angle of about 5 to 20° from the first transfer slot to the second transfer slot.

26. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 17, wherein the lid includes a gap for the mouthpiece of the inner cup.

27. The limited-flow drinking cup according to claim 15, wherein the inner cup is fully seated within the outer cup via a tab lock / seating mechanism that mates with a notch lock / seating mechanism.

28. The main liquid reservoir comprises a filling line configured such that when the restricted flow cup is tilted, the liquid level in the straw is below the reservoir end of the first transfer slot before the liquid level reaches the mouthpiece vent hole. The restricted flow drinking cup according to claim 15.

29. A restricted flow cup 100 comprising an outer cup, an inner cup, and a lid, The outer cup has an open top and a closed bottom (428). The open top is formed by the outer cup upper end, the main internal cavity (407), and the outer surface. The main internal cavity has a cross-section suitable for fitting with the inner cup. The outer cup upper end has an outer cup notch (306) for receiving the inner cup. The outer surface optionally has a handle (305). The inner cup has an open top, a closed bottom, side walls of the inner cup interior and the inner cup exterior. The open top is formed by the inner cup upper end with an inner cup flange (511) and a raised portion providing a mouthpiece (609) with a mouthpiece channel (610). The inner cup interior has a mouthpiece vent hole (621) through which fluid can flow (610). The inner cup upper end can be combined with the outer cup notch for the inner cup to seat within the outer cup. The closed bottom includes an inner portion of the inner cup bottom and an outer portion of the inner cup bottom connected to a recess in the outer side wall of the inner cup. When the outer cup and the inner cup are attached to each other, they provide a fluid transfer reservoir (815) connecting the recess of the inner cup to the mouthpiece vent hole. The lid has a lid outer surface and a lid inner surface. The lid outer surface is provided with an upper concave portion surrounded by a raised lid edge portion. The lid inner surface contacts the assembled inner cup. The lid inner surface includes an internal raised portion facing the inside of the inner cup, a flange (1336) providing a stop position for the inner cup flange, a removal tab (1333), a gap (1235) for accommodating the inner cup mouthpiece, two seal beads (1230) surrounding the internal raised portion such that a duct (1134) is formed between the two beads, a duct vent hole (1232) of the internal raised portion connecting the duct to the lid inner surface, and a lid vent hole (1231) connecting the lid inner surface to the external atmosphere. Since air is sucked from the outside of the limited flow rate cup 100 by the suction operation, the conduit provided by the mouthpiece channel (610), the mouthpiece vent hole (621), the duct (1134), the duct vent hole (1232), and the lid vent hole (1231) is a limited flow rate cup that prevents the user from sucking out excess fluid from the main reservoir (23).

30. A method of using the limited flow rate cup according to claim 1, 15, or 30, the method including the step of filling and / or drinking the liquid contained in the limited flow rate cup.

31. A method of manufacturing the limited flow rate cup according to claim 1, the method including the step of disposing the inner cup in the outer cup to provide an assembled limited flow rate cup that can contain a liquid therein and the amount of the contained liquid discharged when tilted is limited.

32. The method according to claim 31, further including the step of disposing a lid on the assembled inner cup and the outer cup.

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