A container with the ability to change all or a portion of its surface status from clear (transparent) to solid (opaque) and thereafter eventually sterilize its contents

Abstract

A container includes a main body with an outer surface, a light-suppressing film, and non- laminated or film-covered parts. The main body is at least partially constructed from a transparent material suitable for containing various liquids. The outer surface of the main body is laminated or otherwise covered with the light-suppressing film. The non-laminated or film-covered parts include parts of the main body, a lid, and a bottom made of or covered with a solid color material.

Description

A CONTAINER WITH THE ABILITY TO CHANGE ALL OR A PORTION OF ITS SURFACE STATUS FROM CLEAR (TRANSPARENT) TO SOLID (OPAQUE) AND THEREAFTER EVENTUALLY STERILIZE ITS CONTENTSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to United States Provisional Application No. 63 / 615,445, filed December 28, 2023, and entitled A Container Characterized By Its Ability To Change All Or A Portion Of Its Surface Status From Clear (Transparent) To Solid And Thereafter Eventually Sterilize Its Contents, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This present disclosure relates to the field of liquid storage containers. More specifically, the liquid storage containers of the present disclosure are designed to cater to a wide range of applications, encompassing both personal and commercial uses. The present disclosure is particularly pertinent to scenarios requiring the storage and preservation of various liquids and optionally solids, such as water, wine, oil, and other substances. The container's versatile design makes it suitable for nomadic lifestyles, home use, and various commercial applications. Some of its unique features, which allow for the transition between transparent and opaque states and the integration of a UV purification system, make it exceptionally suitable for environments where the quality, safety, and longevity of the stored contents are of importance. Given its broad applicability, the containers of the present disclosure stand as a significant advancement in the technology of liquid containers, offering innovative solutions to meet the diverse needs of users in different settings, from individual consumers to larger commercial entities.BACKGROUND

[0003] In the realm of liquid containers, particularly those equipped with ultraviolet- C (UVC) purification systems, there exists a significant limitation in design and functionality. These containers are generally manufactured in solid colors, a necessary choice to mitigate the harmful effects of UV light emitted by the LEDs used in the purification process. This design choice, while serving a safety purpose, restricts the ability of users to view the contents of the container, leading to practical drawbacks in everyday use. Furthermore, existing liquid containers with UV purification capabilities do notadequately address the need to protect their contents from external light sources. This issue is particularly relevant when the container is made of clear materials like acrylic, Tritan, or glass, which are permeable to light rays that can negatively impact the temperature, quality, and longevity of the stored liquids. The containers of the present disclosure address these limitations by introducing a novel container that is capable of transitioning between a clear (transparent) and a solid (opaque) state. This dual-state functionality is engineered to allow users to visually inspect the contents when in the clear state and to engage in an effective purification process when switched to the solid state. Additionally, the opaque state of the container acts as a shield, protecting the contents from the potentially harmful effects of external light sources and limiting their temperature increase. This innovative approach in container design not only enhances the usability of the container but also significantly improves the safety and efficiency of the UV purification process, offering a multifaceted solution to the limitations of current liquid containers.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present disclosure introduces an innovative container designed to store various types of liquids and solids, including water. One of the unique features of this container is its ability to transition between transparent (clear) and opaque (solid) states. This dual-state functionality is not only advantageous for visually inspecting the contents but also plays a valuable role in the purification process when the container is in its solid state. The design of the container may incorporate a double-walled or triple-walled structure. An inner body of the container may be constructed from clear materials such as glass, Tritan, or acrylic, chosen for their clarity and durability. These materials are also particularly suited for lamination or application with a variety of light-suppressing films. This lamination or application can provide the container with the ability to change states and provides additional benefits such as protection from external light sources and temperature regulation of the contents. However, the lamination or application step can be advantageously avoided by holding a tubular-shaped piece of film, which can be inserted between various wall layers of the container, simplifying the manufacturing process and creating a triple-wall container that shields the contents from harmful and warming rays. In essence, embodiments disclosed herein offer a versatile and modular functional solution for the storage and purification of liquids and solids, combining state-of-the-art materials and technology to enhance user experience and safety.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 illustrates a liquid storage container according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2 illustrates are partially exploded view of the liquid storage container of FIG. 1.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONStructure and Materials

[0007] The design of the container (FIGS. 1 and 2) is modular and versatile, preferably featuring a tubular shape but also capable of incorporating at least one flat side surface and other curved surfaces. This flexibility in design allows for effective lamination or insertion with various specialized films (FIG. 2, 8) and (FIG. 2, 7) catering to different aesthetic and functional requirements.State-Changing Technology

[0008] One aspect of the container is its ability to change states. The exterior and internal surfaces of the bottle or the external wall (FIG. 2, 8) (FIG. 2, 6), excluding the base and top (lid), are laminated with or have disposed therebetween advanced lightsuppressing films (FIG. 2, 7). These films may include Crystal Clear Switchable (CCS), Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC), Electrochromic technology, and Suspended Particle Device (SPD) technology. These films enable the container to transition from a transparent surface state to a solid state, facilitating both the visualization of the contents and protection against external light sources.UV Purification System

[0009] The container also includes an UVC LED (FIG. 2, 5) system for water purification. This system is designed to activate only when the container is in its solid state, with the lid securely closed, ensuring user safety. The LEDs are powered by a designated energy source (FIG. 2, 4) and are controlled by a Central Processing Unit (CPU) (FIG. 2, 13) positioned near this energy source. This setup provides an efficient and safe purification process.Reflecting Parts

[0010] The top part or lid (FIGS. 1 and 2, 1) and bottom (FIGS. 1 and 2, 3) of the container might be either covered with the light-suppressing film or made of one or more solid colors, both features having the ability to block the UV light from escaping the container. Additionally, the inside portions of the top and bottom parts may be made ofreflective materials such as stainless steel, highly polished steel, aluminum, or glass thin- film coatings to reflect and diffract the UV waves to improve the purification process. The top part of the external wall (FIGS. 1 and 2, 8) may also be made of a clear material such as acrylic, Tritan, or glass, thereby allowing the drinking portion (where the user might put their lips or fingers) or the pouring portion to be sterilized. In such cases, the top part of the external wall may be covered with a part made of solid material, such as a lid (FIGS. 1 and 2, 1), and the UV LED positioned for that purpose (FIG. 2, 5).Temperature Control

[0011] Additionally, the container might feature a temperature sensor (FIG. 2, 12) linked to a CPU (FIG. 2, 13), intended to monitor the temperature of the contents of the container. This is especially important to warn against the use of liquids at temperatures exceeding the maximum threshold of the light-suppressing film if such a threshold is below 100°C.Light Control

[0012] The container might feature an ambient light sensor to forbid the use of the UV LED when the content of the container is not in the dark (e.g., when the container is in the opaque state).Communication and Remote Control

[0013] To enhance user interaction and control, the container may be equipped with a wireless communication module (FIG. 2, 11), allowing for remote control and real-time adjustments. This module may enable various functionalities, including setting temperature thresholds and controlling additional features such as the cooling or additional lighting system, making the container not only a storage device but also a smart, interactive tool for modem needs.LED Lighting

[0014] The container's lid, base, or walls may be equipped with colorful LED lighting (FIG. 2, 13), transforming it into a multifunctional device. The holding feature of these LEDs might be rotating to add a whimsical aspect. These LEDs serve as an ambient lighting source, adding an aesthetic dimension to the container and making it a practical yet visually appealing addition to any space.Opacity Control

[0015] The device is designed with versatility in mind, capable of handling various stages of opacity based on user preferences. This functionality allows users to adjust the degree of transparency of the container to their specific needs, offering a range of optionsfrom slightly translucent to fully opaque. This adaptability makes the container suitable for a variety of settings and purposes, enhancing its utility and user experience.Wire Connection

[0016] A wire connection (FIG. 2, 10) may serve as a charging port for the container's energy source or battery and also as a versatile communication channel when connected to external devices. This feature allows for seamless synchronization of container settings and data with external control systems.Modular and Versatile Assembly

[0017] The container (FIGS. 1 and 2) is ingeniously designed with a fully modular structure, allowing for easy replacement or updates and customization of every component, from the main body to the smallest elements. This modularity ensures that the product can be maintained and enhanced over its lifetime, promoting sustainability and adaptability. The design's versatility is highlighted by the wide range of customizable options available; users can select from various materials like glass, acrylic, or Tritan for the body, and tailor components such as the base and lid to different shapes and sizes to meet specific functional or aesthetic needs. Additionally, the container can be equipped with different types of dispensing necks or electronic modules that include features such as adjustable UV light intensities, various sensors, or advanced connectivity options for smart functionality, making it adaptable to a multitude of environments and user preferences. This design philosophy not only extends the container’s usability and relevance but also significantly enhances user interaction and satisfaction.Electric Track on the State-Changing Technology Film

[0018] The container may feature an innovative state-changing technology film that also functions as an OTI (Optically Transparent Indium) electrical track, significantly enhancing the management of electronic functions within the device. This film, engineered from cutting-edge materials such as Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC), Suspended Particle Device (SPD) technologies, and indium tin oxide-based films, enables the container to switch between transparent and opaque states while concurrently conducting electricity. The incorporation of the OTI electrical track can efficiently route power and signals throughout the container, supporting a variety of functionalities, including UV purification, temperature control, and smart connectivity. The integration of this conductive film increases the container’s versatility, allowing electronic components to be strategically positioned anywhere on the container. This not only ensures optimal operation but also broadens design flexibility. By using the OTI electrical track, thecontainer's electronic architecture is simplified, eliminating the need for extensive wiring, which enhances both the reliability and safety of the unit. The surface of the film can be customized to display any brand, design, writing, or drawing as needed. This customization process, called etching, is applied to the ITO-based film.Low Shore Silicone Base and Top to Protect the Glass Container

[0019] The container may be designed with a base and top crafted from low shore silicone (FIG. 2, 15 and 16), specifically chosen for its superior protective qualities and durability. This silicone material, characterized by its lower Shore A hardness, offers excellent flexibility and shock absorption, which can safeguard the container against impacts and drops. The soft, yet resilient nature of the low shore silicone not only prevents physical damage but also provides an effective seal that maintains the container's internal environment hermetically, ensuring the contents are kept sterile and uncontaminated. This design consideration can extend the lifespan of the container while enhancing user safety and comfort during handling. The low shore silicone components are also designed to be easily replaceable, supporting the container's overall modularity and longevity by allowing for simple maintenance and upgrades as needed. The container is ingeniously designed with its internal bottle configured to be inserted and suspended by the neck to the external wall. This unique assembly approach effectively minimizes the amount of contact between the internal bottle and the container's base, thereby significantly reducing stress from the weight of the contents on the bottom of the container. By suspending the internal bottle from the neck, the design not only prevents potential damage and wear from continuous contact but also enhances the stability and longevity of the container. This method of suspension ensures that the weight of the stored liquid is evenly distributed, reducing pressure points and the risk of structural compromise. Such a design is particularly advantageous in maintaining the integrity and durability of the container under varying load conditions, making it ideal for a wide range of applications where safety and longevity are paramount.Weight and Volume Sensors

[0020] In some embodiments, the container may include one or more sensors that are configured to detect a weight and / or a volume of a liquid disposed within the container. The one or more sensors may be able to determine the total weight and / or volume of the liquid disposed within the container. In some embodiments, the container may also include a processor and memory. When the container is initially filled with liquid, the one or more sensors may detect an initial weight and / or volume of the liquid. The initial weight and / orvolume may be stored within the memory. The one or more sensors may detect subsequent weights and / or volumes. The processor may compare the initial weight and / or volume to the subsequent weights and / or volumes to determine a remaining quantity of liquid and / or a weight and / or volume of liquid consumed or used since the initial weight and / or volume measurements. The container may also include an output device (e.g., display, lights, speaker, etc.) that is configured to indicate the initial and / or current weight and / or volume of the liquid and / or the weight and / or volume of the liquid that has been consumed or used.1. Container Lid2. Container3. Base4. Battery or standalone energy source5. UV lighting system or UVC LED6. Internal layer of wall container7. Smart film or Electrochromatic film8. External layer or wall container9. Connector Data and Power supply10. Wireless communication module11. Temperature management and light management CPU12. Lightning LED13. Internal Layer Holder and connector14. Silicone Part Low shore15. Neck Silicone

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A container comprising: a main body at least partially constructed from a transparent material suitable for containing various liquids; an outer surface of the main body laminated or otherwise covered with a light-suppressing film; and non-laminated or film-covered parts of the main body, a lid, and a bottom made of or covered with a solid color material.

2. The container of Claim 1, further comprising: an energy source; and a central processing unit (CPU) and at least one switch for controlling the status of the light-suppressing film and the UVC LED devices.

3. The container of Claim 2, wherein the UV purification system is specifically designed to activate only when the entire container is in a solid state, to ensure user safety and effective sterilization.

4. The container of Claim 2, wherein the energy source comprises a battery and a UV purification system incorporating at least one UVC LED device.

5. The container of Claim 2, wherein the switch is an optical or digital switch.

6. The container of Claim 2, further comprising a communication module for remote control via Bluetooth or WIFI.

7. The container of Claim 2, wherein the UV purification system is configured for activation only when the container's surface status is entirely solid, enabling sterilization of the contents.

8. The container of Claim 2, wherein the main body has an interior that is configured to receive therein a liquid, a solid, or one or more tools therein, and whereinthe UV purification system is configured to sanitize the liquid, solid, or one or more tools therein.

9. The container of Claim 1, further comprising a temperature sensor linked to the CPU and configured to monitor the temperature of the container’ s contents and alert a user when the temperature exceeds a pre-set threshold safe for the light-suppressing films.

10. The container of Claim 1, wherein the pre-set threshold is 100°C.

11. The container of Claim 1 , further comprising at least one external additional closed surface that protects the light-suppressing film and ensures the thermal stability of the container, made at least partially of clear and rigid materials.

12. The container of Claim 11, wherein the clear and rigid materials are selected from acrylic, Tritan, or glass.

13. The container of Claim 1 , wherein the transparent material is selected from borosilicate glass, acrylic, or Tritan.

14. The container of Claim 1, wherein the light suppressing film is selected from Crystal Clear Switchable (CCS), Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC), Electrochromic technology, or Suspended Particle Device (SPD) technology.

15. The container of Claim 1, wherein the light suppressing film has a brand, design, writing, or drawing etched on or into a surface thereof.

16. The container of Claim 1, wherein the solid covered material is selected from metal, plastic, wood, ceramic, or tinted glass.

16. The container of Claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors configured to detect a weight or a volume of a liquid disposed within the container.

17. The container of Claim 16, further comprising an output device that is configured to produce an output that indicates the weight or the volume of the liquid disposed within the container.

18. A container compri sing : a modular main body; interchangeable components including as a base and a lid, configurable in various shapes and sizes for specific functional or aesthetic requirements; multiple dispensing necks and electronic modules, where the electronic modules include adjustable UV light intensities, one or more sensors, and a connectivity option for smart functionality; a state-changing technology film integrated with an Optically Transparent Indium (OTI) electrical track, made from materials such as Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC), Suspended Particle Device (SPD) technology, and indium tin oxide-based films; wherein the state-changing technology film is configured to transition the container between transparent and opaque states while conducting electricity to power and control the container’s electronic functionalities; and a base and top made from low shore silicone with specified Shore A hardness for impact resistance and environmental sealing, and configured for thermal insulation to maintain consistent internal temperatures.

19. The container of Claim 18, wherein the modular main body is formed at least partially from glass, acrylic, or Tritan.

20. The container of Claim 18, wherein the low shore silicone components are designed to be easily replaceable, enhancing the container’s modularity and facilitating maintenance and upgrades.

21. The container of Claim 18, wherein the electronic architecture utilizes the OTI electrical track for efficient routing of power and signals throughout the container, eliminating the need for extensive wiring and enhancing the reliability and safety of the unit.

22. The container of Claim 18, further comprising an internal bottle designed to be inserted and suspended by a neck to the external wall, such that the internal bottle is substantially unsupported by the container's base, distributing the weight of stored liquids evenly and reducing stress on the base.

23. The container of Claim 18, wherein the modularity extends to a wide range of customizable options allowing adaptation to multiple environments and enhancing user interaction and satisfaction, facilitating use in various applications where safety and longevity are paramount.

Images