Device for absorbing condensed liquids on beverage containers and process for obtaining the absorbent device

A synthetic PVA sponge-based absorbent device addresses the limitations of existing solutions by efficiently absorbing condensation in beverage containers, offering adaptability, reusability, and additional functionality, ensuring effective liquid management and user convenience.

WO2025024903A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-02-06SANCHO KARLOS FREDERICO CASTELO BRANCO
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/BR2023/000010
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-07-28
Filing Date
2023-09-29
Publication Date
2025-02-06

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing solutions for preventing liquid condensation in beverage containers are either non-absorbent, lack durability, require frequent part replacement, or obstruct the view of the drink content, failing to effectively absorb liquids and track the container's movements.

Method used

A synthetic PVA sponge-based absorbent device with polyvinyl alcohol, featuring compressibility, adhesive layers, and filtering pores, which can be applied to various parts of the container, including the base and handle, to absorb condensation and prevent drips, while also serving as a marker and offering additional functionality.

Benefits of technology

The absorbent device efficiently absorbs condensation, is reusable, easy to clean, and adaptable to different container sizes and shapes, providing effective liquid management and additional benefits like ingredient retention, while preventing spills and enhancing user experience.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This product relates to the field of beverage containers and related accessories, and can be used for condensed liquids on beverage containers, whether in meal settings, social events, bars or restaurants, wherein said product can further be used on various beverage containers, such as glasses, mugs, cups, cans, bottles, buckets, koozies, cupholders, drinkware and the like. The present application for a patent of invention describes an absorbent device (1) composed of a body (2) made from synthetic PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) sponge (3), for retaining the condensed liquids on beverage containers (R). The absorbent device (1) to which the present invention relates is reusable, easy to clean and extremely practical. Additionally, the absorbent device (1) can be attached to beverage containers (R) in advance during manufacture and can also be molded into various geometric shapes.
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Description

LIQUID ABSORBENT DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND PROCESS FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBENT DEVICE

[0001] This patent application relates to a device for absorbing liquids generated by condensation in beverage containers, such as glasses, cups, mugs, cans, bottles, buckets, koozies, coasters, drinkware, and the like. The absorbent device, which is the subject of the present invention, can be applied to the bottom of beverage containers, as well as to the stem extension or base of the beverage container, in order to prevent any drops of liquid from falling onto clothing, the surface of a table or floor, among other things. Furthermore, it is a reusable absorbent device, easy to wash, practical to use, and can also be used as a marker for the beverage container, as well as as an absorbent "pad" and, furthermore, be carried close to the body of said beverage container. FIELD OF APPLICATION

[0002] The invention that motivates this patent application has the field of application focused on the beverage container and related accessories industry, being, more particularly, useful for condensing liquids in beverage containers, whether in dining environments, social events, bars and restaurants, and can also be used in various beverage containers, such as glasses, cups, cups, cans, bottles, buckets, koozies, coasters, drinkware and the like. PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED

[0003] Currently, there are several solutions to address the problem of liquid absorption, preventing condensation or overflowing from beverage containers. Some of these solutions involve supporting the beverage container, like a "coaster," to prevent the table from getting wet. However, the current solution does not meet the industry's needs because it is not absorbent, which leads to its disposal. No However, it has low durability and lacks the means to attach it to beverage containers. It is a stopgap solution, as it only protects the surface to which it is applied. When the user moves the beverage container, the film cannot follow its movements, causing water droplets to drip from the container and wet the user's clothing, the surface of objects, and the floor.

[0004] Other solutions offer means of attaching to the base of beverage containers. However, these solutions are equally incapable of meeting the industry's needs, as they are composed of multiple interlocking parts that require regular replacement, resulting in low efficiency and high costs.

[0005] In time, other drawbacks can be observed in these solutions, such as the fact that they are comprised of extremely complex mechanisms to provide liquid absorption through condensation, and are also difficult to reuse, since they have the solution material saturated with water, which makes compression by the user's hands and, consequently, the removal of excess liquid impossible.

[0006] Still, other conventional solutions, such as insulated cups or koozies, seek to minimize condensation by incorporating thermal insulation. However, these solutions also fail to meet the industry's needs, as the insulated cup prevents direct viewing of the beverage's contents. This prevents the user from seeing the color of the liquid being consumed, such as juice, cocktails, or drinks, and also deprives them of the sensation of having a well-crafted beverage.

[0007] In short, the solutions discussed above aim to prevent condensation from wetting certain surfaces. However, none of them effectively absorb liquids from condensation on various beverage containers, other than tracking the user's movements of the beverage containers. STATE OF THE TECHNIQUE

[0008] The current state of the art is known from document PI 0903964-3, published on 06 / 04 / 2013, which deals with a support for cups and similar items with the function of absorbing and adsorbing liquid from condensation or overflow, comprising an upper permeable layer, a lower permeable layer, in such a way that an absorbent and adsorbent material is located between them, and they are also joined by sealing, the material being made of TNT, plastics, wood, cellulose, cotton, recycled cellulose and cotton with gel.

[0009] However, the above prior art is cited because it is a support active in the same segment as the present invention. However, said prior art has teachings that are completely different from those claimed by the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention relates to an innovative absorbent device developed from synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol, an absorbent and compressible material. The absorbent device is designed to attach to beverage containers and absorb condensation, preventing liquid dripping. It consists of a body that may include resistance lines, filtering pores, and absorbents to improve liquid absorption. It may also include an adhesive layer for attachment to containers and a silicone rubber to prevent slippage. Furthermore, it is a versatile absorbent device, which can be applied to different parts of the beverage container and also serves as a beverage marker, and can be molded into various geometric shapes.However, the present invention has three processes for obtaining the absorbent device: a first chemical process with the production of the PVA sponge with the desired characteristics in the shape of the cup base; a second process of aggregating the PVA sponge in the cooling stage of the glass or plastic cup (product as a whole) or a third thermoforming process for forming the absorbent device. properly speaking. ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention has the following advantages: The synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol provides absorption of aqueous solutions, allowing for the rapid absorption of liquids generated by condensation in beverage containers; The compressibility of the body of the absorbent device made of synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol allows it to return to its absorption configuration when squeezed after saturation; The absorbent device is capable of retaining ingredients, medications, supplements, or food, offering a potential additional benefit to the beverage consumer; The absorbent device comprises resistance lines and absorbent channels or filters, which contribute to the absorption of liquids; The absorbent device has an adhesive layer for attachment to beverage containers, as well as a silicone rubber that prevents slipping on surfaces;The absorbent device has versatile applications and can be used at the bottom of beverage containers, along the stem extension, or at the base of the stem, preventing liquids from dripping onto clothing or surfaces. It is a reusable absorbent device, easy to wash and practical to use, and can also function as a beverage marker. It is an absorbent device that can be configured with concentric layers to adapt to containers of different sizes or shapes. The absorbent device includes a hand-held support for; provide a safe and comfortable way to hold the beverage container; The absorbent device offers the possibility of compartments for condiments, capsules, tablets, tea bags, medicines, food or other ingredients; The absorbent device can be factory-fitted to beverage containers and come in a variety of geometric shapes to appeal to the user, and can also contain branding, logos, or promotional messages. DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] Attached below are the following illustrations of the present invention:

[0013] Fig. 1: shows the perspective view of the device absorbing liquids by condensation in beverage containers, showing it in a format with a wavy perimeter edge, applied to a conventional glass in a schematic manner;

[0014] Fig. 2: shows the perspective view of the device that absorbs liquids from condensation in beverage containers, in the format with a wavy perimeter edge;

[0015] Fig. 3: shows the perspective view of the device that absorbs liquids by condensation in beverage containers, showing it in a format with a wavy perimeter edge, applied to a conventional glass;

[0016] Fig. 4: shows the perspective view of the device that absorbs liquids by condensation in beverage containers, showing it in a format with a perimeter edge and concentric layers;

[0017] Fig. 5: shows the perspective view of the device absorbing liquids from condensation in beverage containers, showing it in a format with a wavy perimeter edge with support for the user's hand;

[0018] Fig. 6: shows the perspective view of the device absorbing liquids from condensation in beverage containers, showing it in a format with wavy perimeter edge with compartments;

[0019] Fig. 7: shows the perspective view of the liquid absorbing device for condensation in beverage containers, showing it in crown shape;

[0020] Fig. 8: shows the perspective view of the liquid absorbing device by condensation in beverage containers, showing it in a crown shape, applied to a conventional glass;

[0021] Fig. 9: shows the perspective view of the liquid absorbing device by condensation in beverage containers, showing it in a conical shape, applied to a conventional glass;

[0022] Fig. 10: shows the perspective view of the device for absorbing liquids by condensation in beverage containers, showing it in the shape of a container, applied to coat a conventional bottle;

[0023] Fig. 11: shows the perspective view of the device for absorbing liquids by condensation in beverage containers, showing it in a wafer format, applied to coat a conventional bottle, as an example;

[0024] Fig. 12: shows the flowchart of the steps for obtaining the absorbent device, according to the invention.

[0025] Fig. 13: shows the flowchart of the steps for obtaining the absorbent device, according to the invention.

[0026] Fig. 14: shows the flowchart of the steps for obtaining the absorbent device, according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] The device for absorbing liquids by condensation in beverage containers and the process for obtaining the absorbent device, which is the subject of this patent application, consists of an absorbent device (1) for liquids generated by condensation in beverage containers (R), such as glasses, cups, cups, cans, bottles, buckets, drinkware and the like. The absorbent device (1), in which they are, can be applied both to the bottom of the beverage containers (R), such as on the stem extension (H) or on the base (B) of the beverage container (R), in order to prevent any drops of liquid from falling onto clothing or onto the surface of a table or floor.

[0028] More particularly, the absorbent device (1), object of the present invention, comprises a body (2) made of synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol (3) provided with an absorbent porous material (4) with open cells to quickly absorb aqueous solutions. The absorbent device (1) made of synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol (3), can be compressible, that is, it can be squeezed by the user's hands, when saturated with liquids and, consequently, naturally return to the absorption configuration. Nevertheless, the synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol (3) of the absorbent device (1) can have an accessory store to retain ingredients, medicines, supplements or food for the person consuming a beverage to add if desired to their drink (R).

[0029] In time, the absorbent device (1) comprises resistance lines (5), in addition to having filtering and absorbent pores (6), which act together with the synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol (3), which help in the absorption of liquids from condensation coming from the beverage containers (R) incorporated by the absorbent device (1).

[0030] The body (2) of the absorbent device (1) further comprises an adhesive layer (7) which ensures the attachment of the absorbent device (1) to the beverage containers (R). Furthermore, the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) may have a silicone rubber (8) inserted in the lower part of the absorbent device (1) in order to prevent the absorbent device (1) from sliding when placed on various surfaces. Furthermore, the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) may have a hydrophobic material (9) in order to prevent the absorbed liquid drops from staining the contact surfaces.

[0031] Another advantageous aspect of the absorbent device (1), which is the object of the present invention, is that it can be applied both to the bottom of the beverage containers (R), and to the extension of the stem (H) or to the base (B) of the beverage container (R), in order to prevent any drop of liquid from falling onto clothing or onto the surface of a table or floor. Furthermore, it is a device absorbent pad (1) reusable, easy to wash, practical to use, and can also be used as a marker in the beverage container (R), as well as an absorbent pad (19) and can also be carried next to the body of the beverage container (R).

[0032] Furthermore, the absorbent device (1) in question can be made with concentric layers (10), which allow the absorbent device (1) to be fixed to beverage containers (R), such as, for example, glasses with varying diameters.

[0033] The absorbent device (1) may also comprise a hand support bracket (11) in order to provide a safe and comfortable way for the user to hold the absorbent device (1), avoiding direct contact with the beverage container (R). Furthermore, it may be used with compartments (12) which are associated with condiments, capsules, tablets, tea bags, medicines, food or other ingredients for nutrition, supplementation or treatment that may be added to the beverage in the container (R).

[0034] Furthermore, the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) can be made with a corrugated perimeter edge (13), in the shape of a crown (14) comprised of a central hole (15) and a lateral fitting opening (16) in the body (2) of the absorbent device (1). Also, in a conical shape (17), in a cup shape (18) and in a wafer shape (19).

[0035] Furthermore, the absorbent device (1) can be factory-attached to beverage containers (R), such as glasses, cups, mugs, cans, bottles, buckets, koozies, coasters, drinkware, and the like. It can also be shaped into various geometric shapes, such as animals, plants, crowns, stars, discs, famous characters, cartoon characters, brands, beverage brand logos, ties, clothing, or any other shape that makes it elegant and desirable to the user. It can also function as beverage markers and be used for decorative elements, messages, or promotional phrases.

[0036] The absorbent device (1) is obtained through a manufacturing process (P), which includes the following steps: a first step (E1) with a vacuum, pressure or mechanical thermoforming process (20) an absorbent element (21) is formed based on synthetic PVA material (22), polyvinyl alcohol (23), and thermoplastic elastomer (24); in the second stage (E2) the absorbent device (1) is formed with a body (2) in synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol (3) with a wavy perimeter edge (13), in the shape of a crown (14) comprised of a central hole (15) and a lateral fitting opening (16), also in a conical shape (17), in the shape of a cup (18) and in the shape of a biscuit (19).

[0037] However, due to the advantages it offers and its truly innovative characteristics, the LIQUID ABSORBENT DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND PROCESS FOR PRODUCING THE ABSORBENT DEVICE meets the necessary conditions to be eligible for an Invention Patent.

Claims

Claims dogs 1 a ) DEVICE FOR ABSORBING LIQUIDS BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND PROCESS FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBENT DEVICE, consists of an absorbent device (1) for liquids generated by condensation in beverage containers (R) with a rod (H) or base (B), in which the absorbent device (1) is characterized by comprising a body (2) made of synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol (3) equipped with a porous material for absorbing condensation liquids from beverage containers (4); furthermore, the body (2) comprises resistance lines (5) for fitting into these containers, 2 a) LIQUID ABSORBING DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBING DEVICE, according to claim 1, is characterized in that it can also comprise an adhesive layer (7) for fixing the absorbent device (1) to the beverage containers (R); by the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) presenting a silicone rubber (8) inserted in the lower part of the absorbent device (1) to inhibit the absorbent device (1) from sliding over various surfaces; further, by the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) having a hydrophilic material (9) to allow liquid drops to be absorbed from the table or any contact surface;by the absorbent device (1) being applied either to the bottom of the drinks containers (R), or to the extension of the stem (H) or to the base (B) of the drinks container (R) to dry the table or to prevent any drops of liquid from falling onto clothing or the surface of a table or floor.; 3 a ) DEVICE FOR ABSORBING LIQUIDS BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND METHOD FOR PRODUCING THE ABSORBENT DEVICE, according to claim 1, is characterized in that the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) is made with concentric layers (10), which allow the device absorbent (1) be fixed to beverage containers (R), such as cups with different diameters; or be manufactured together with the beverage containers, integrating it into their base. 4 a) DEVICE FOR ABSORBING LIQUIDS BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBENT DEVICE, according to claim 1, is characterized in that the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) comprises a hand support (11) for the user to hold the absorbent device (1), and avoid direct contact with the beverage container (R). 5 a ) LIQUID ABSORBING DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBING DEVICE, according to claim 1, is characterized in that the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) comprises compartments (12) associated with condiments, capsules, tablets, tea bags, medicines, food or other ingredients for nutrition, supplementation or treatment that can be added to the beverage in the container (R). 6 a) LIQUID ABSORBING DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBING DEVICE, according to claim 1, is characterized in that the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) is made in a wavy perimeter edge (13), in the shape of a crown (14) comprised of a central hole (15) and a lateral fitting opening (16) in the body (2) of the absorbent device (1). Also, in a conical shape (17), in the shape of a cup (18) and in the shape of a biscuit (19), among others. 7 a ) DEVICE FOR ABSORBING LIQUIDS BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBENT DEVICE, according to claim 1, is characterized in that the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) be compressible and squeezed by the user's hands, when saturated with liquids, and can naturally return to the absorption configuration. 8 a) LIQUID ABSORBENT DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND PROCESS FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBENT DEVICE, according to claim 1, is characterized in that the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) is made of synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol (3) to retain ingredients, medicines, supplements or food for the person who is consuming a drink in a given drink container (R). 9 a) LIQUID ABSORBING DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND PROCESS FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBING DEVICE, according to claim 1, is characterized in that the body (2) of the absorbent device (1) is shaped in various geometric shapes, such as animals, plants, crowns, stars, discs, famous characters, cartoon characters, brands, beverage brand logos, ties, clothing or any other shape, which makes it elegant and desirable for the user, also operating as beverage markers and being used for decorative elements, messages or promotional phrases. 10 a) LIQUID ABSORBENT DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBENT DEVICE by the absorbent device (1) of claim 1, characterized by being obtained by means of a manufacturing process (Q), which includes the following steps: a first step (K1) preparation of the material, PVA in granules or powder; by the PVA granules being dissolved in hot water to form a viscous PVA solution; a second step (K2), where the PVA solution is molded into the desired shape to fit the base of the beverage device in metal, plastic or silicone molds; a third step (K3), where drying occurs, the molds with PVA solution are placed in an oven or in a temperature-controlled environment to begin the drying process; the water in the PVA solution evaporates, causing the PVA to solidify; a fourth step (K4) where demolding occurs, removing the solidified device parts; a fifth step (K5), where the device is cut and finished, with the absorbent device being formed in synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol (3) with a wavy perimeter edge (13), in the shape of a crown (14) comprised of a central hole (15) and a lateral fitting opening (16), also in a conical shape or in other geometric shapes (17), in the shape of a cup (18), in the shape of a biscuit (19), among other models, depending on the design of the cup; a sixth step (K6), where the absorbent device (1) is packaged for beverage containers. 11 a) LIQUID ABSORBENT DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND PROCESS FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBENT DEVICE according to claim 10, is characterized by being obtained by means of a manufacturing process (Q), which includes the following steps: a first step (E1) with a vacuum, pressure or mechanical thermoforming process (20) an absorbent element (21) is formed based on synthetic PVA material (22), polyvinyl alcohol (23) and thermoplastic elastomer (24) and; a second stage (E2), where the absorbent device (1) is formed with a body (2) in synthetic PVA sponge with polyvinyl alcohol (3) with a wavy perimeter edge (13), in the shape of a crown (14) comprising a central hole (15) and a lateral fitting opening (16), also in a conical shape (17), in the shape of a cup (18) and in the shape of a biscuit (19). 12 a) LIQUID ABSORBING DEVICE BY CONDENSATION IN BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND METHOD FOR OBTAINING THE ABSORBING DEVICE by the absorbent device (1) of claim 1, characterized in that it is obtained by means of a manufacturing process (O), which includes the following steps: a first step (X1) melting of the materials necessary for the production of glass or plastic; these materials are mixed in specific proportions and placed in a melting furnace, so that the intense heat melts the ingredients, forming a liquid mass; a second step (X2) of blow molding or pressing to give the desired shape to the beverage container, at the end of this step the PVA sponge is added together with the beverage container at its base to absorb the liquids from the condensation of this device; a third step (X3) of finishing to improve its quality, in which the PVA sponge can be added to the beverage container and; a fourth step (X4) where the controlled cooling of the beverage absorbent device (1) assembly with the PVA sponge at its base is carried out.

Citation Information

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