Multi-compartment spoon packaging for food

Abstract

A multi-compartment packaging spoon to combine, within a single integrated structure, the functions of a consumption utensil and a modular containment system for consumable substances. The spoon comprises a main body including a spoon bowl (10) and a handle (30), wherein the spoon bowl is configured to receive and contain a primary substance selected from powdered, granular, semi-solid, or liquid materials. Mounted along the handle are at least one, and preferably a plurality of, detachable compartments (11, 12) adapted to store secondary substances or additives.The detachable compartments are releasably secured to the handle by one or more connecting mechanisms, including sliding interfaces, frangible break-away connections, snap-fit engagements, or combinations thereof, and are separable by a manual force applied by a user.

Description

[0001] Description of the Invention

[0002] Title of the Invention

[0003] Multi-Compartment Spoon Packaging for Food

[0004] Technical Background of the Invention

[0005] The technical field of this invention pertains to the packaging and disposable container industry, specifically food packaging that incorporates integrated delivery tools. It relates to packaging designed to dispense a specific measured quantity of granular or powdered contents. This invention falls under relevant classification codes such as A47G 19 / 34 (containers for delivering food) and B65D 83 / 00 (containers with dispensing means). Furthermore, the disclosed packaging container is characterized by serving a secondary function after its contents are removed, moving beyond its primary packaging purpose, as reflected in classification B65D 81 / 36 (packaging elements with ancillary utility).

[0006] Technical Problem and Objectives of the Invention

[0007] Instant beverage mixes, such as powdered coffee combined with sugar and creamer, are commonly served at events like parties and conferences. However, this standardized approach fails to accommodate individual dietary needs and taste preferences. Individuals with medical conditions like diabetes, or those following specific diets, must often avoid the pre-mixed sugar content. Others may prefer the pure, bitter taste of coffee without additives.

[0008] Furthermore, preparing such drinks requires a utensil for stirring. Frequently, spoons are omitted from catering packages altogether. When spoons are provided, hygiene can be a concern — they may not be individually sealed or might be made from materials unsuitable for high-temperature liquids like boiling water. Environmental regulations in some regions also restrict or prohibit single-use plastic cutlery, creating additional logistical challenges.Consequently, there is a clear need for an improved solution.

[0009] The objectives of this invention are therefore to:

[0010] Provide a hygienic, integrated stirring utensil that guarantees availability.

[0011] Ensure the utensil material is heat-resistant and safe for use with boiling water.

[0012] Enable personalized beverage preparation by separating instant drink bases from additives (e.g., sugar, creamer).

[0013] Offer a sustainable design that reduces waste by combining packaging and utensil into a single, functional item.

[0014] Address regulatory pressures by providing an alternative to conventional disposable cutlery where needed.

[0015] Description of the State of the Prior Art

[0016] An international patent search was conducted to identify existing solutions. The most relevant prior art documents are: RU148225U1 , WO2014109669A1 , and WO2019016827A1 .

[0017] RU148225U1 : This utility model discloses a spoon configured to package a single serving of a food or medicinal substance, such as coffee. As illustrated, the substance is contained within the bowl recess of the spoon (3). A sliding door (5) covers this single compartment, moving along guide edges (6) to allow finger-operated opening and closing.

[0018] Comparison and Differentiation:

[0019] While the sliding access mechanism in RU148225U1 is functionally similar to one embodiment of the present invention, its application and scope are fundamentally different and limited. The prior art describes a single, fixed compartment integral to the spoon bowl. In contrast, the core innovation of the present invention lies in its use of multiple, separable compartments that are detachably mounted on the spoon handle. This necessitates and incorporates specialized locking mechanisms to secure these compartments to the spoon body. Consequently, the present invention enables the storage and individualized dispensing of at least three distinct substances (e.g., coffee, sugar, creamer), a capability absent in the single-compartment design of RU148225U1.WO2014109669A1 : This patent application discloses a spoon-like packaging device. Its primary distinction from a conventional spoon is an internal dividing wall (17) within the bowl hollow, creating two separate chambers for holding distinct substances.

[0020] The document further illustrates that two such spoon units can be connected at their handles via a pin joint, allowing them to pivot angularly relative to one another. This forms a clamshell-like assembly where the two spoon bowls face each other.

[0021] Comparison and Differentiation:

[0022] The approach of WO2014109669A1 is fundamentally distinct from the present invention. Its design is based on modifying the spoon bowl itself to create internal divisions and on hinging two complete spoon units together. In contrast, the present invention maintains a traditional, unitary spoon bowl for the primary substance. Its innovation focuses on modular, detachable compartments affixed to the handle, which utilize sliding or break-away mechanisms for separation. These compartments are not independent spoon units but are dedicated additive containers integrated into the spoon's form factor. Therefore, the assembly method, the location of the substance storage, and the overall functionality for personalized dispensing are entirely different.

[0023] WO2019016827A1 : This document describes a single-serving food package molded into the shape of a spoon. The key feature emphasized is the variety of possible cross-sectional geometries for the bowl cavity, as shown in its figures (e.g., circular, square, triangular, hexagonal in Fig. 1b). All such containers are sealable to prevent leakage.

[0024] Comparison and Differentiation:

[0025] While WO2019016827A1 successfully integrates packaging and utensil form, its scope is primarily focused on structural shape variation and basic containment. The present invention introduces significant functional advancements beyond mere shape. Specifically, it incorporates complex, user-operated mechanisms for compartment detachment (e.g., sliding locks with torsional arms, break-away points, foil-sealed inserts) and enables personalized, multiingredient dispensing from a single, integrated unit. These mechanisms and the resulting user control represent a substantive advance in utility and complexity over the prior art.Explanation of Figure Numbering Convention

[0026] A consistent numbering convention is used for reference numerals throughout the figures and this description to aid cross-referencing.

[0027] For a two-digit reference numeral (e.g., 21), the first digit (the tens place) indicates the figure number where that element is primarily illustrated. Therefore, element 21 is shown in Figure 2. For a three-digit reference numeral (e.g., 412), the first digit (the hundreds place) indicates the figure number where that specific embodiment or detailed view of the element is shown. The last two digits correspond to a functionally equivalent or related element introduced in a previous figure. Thus, element 412 is a detailed representation in Figure 4 of the component first identified as element 12 in Figure 1 .

[0028] This systematic approach allows readers to efficiently locate relevant illustrations and trace the evolution or specific implementation of components across different embodiments and figure sets.

[0029] Detailed Description of the Invention and Solution to the Technical Problem

[0030] The invention provides a complete solution to the aforementioned problems through an integrated, multi-functional packaging spoon. A detailed description of its structure and operation follows, with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0031] General Structure and Configuration (Figs. 1a & 1b):

[0032] As illustrated, the primary embodiment of the spoon comprises three key functional parts. The first is the spoon bowl or hollow (10), designed to contain a primary substance, such as instant coffee powder or coffee extract liquid. Integrated into the handle are two distinct, detachable compartments: an upper compartment (11) and a lower compartment (12). These are designated for holding secondary additives.

[0033] Exemplary Use Case - Beverage Personalization:

[0034] To illustrate its application, consider a typical 3-in-1 coffee mix scenario. The spoon bowl (10) holds instant coffee. The upper compartment (11) is filled with non-dairy creamer powder, and the lower compartment (12) contains sugar. This allows a consumer to add all, some, or none ofthe additives to their drink. For a 2-in-1 mix (coffee and creamer), both compartments (11 , 12) could be filled with creamer powder, providing a double portion or serving two cups.

[0035] Versatility of Application:

[0036] It is important to note that the coffee example is used for clarity. A person skilled in the art will readily understand that the invention is not limited to coffee products. The primary compartment (10) could equally hold tea, soup powder, or other instant granules. Similarly, the additive compartments (11, 12) could contain a wide variety of substances such as sweeteners (chocolate, caramel sauce), flavorings, spices, or decorative toppings (e.g., marshmallows).

[0037] Sealing and Hygiene Feature:

[0038] Following filling, a thin, sealable foil or laminate sheet (13) — composed of metal, plastic, or a composite — is affixed over the bowl and both compartments. This hermetic seal prevents leakage, preserves freshness, and guarantees hygiene until the point of use.

[0039] Integrated Stand-Off Design:

[0040] An additional practical feature is incorporated into the geometry. When the lower compartment (12) is attached, it acts as a stand, elevating the spoon bowl (10) above a flat surface, such as a table. This design prevents the food-contact surface of the bowl from becoming contaminated, maintaining hygiene prior to use.

[0041] Detachable Compartment Mechanism - Sliding Assembly (Figs. 2a & 2b):

[0042] The additive compartments (211 , 212) at the handle's terminus are designed for sliding engagement and detachment from the main spoon body. This is facilitated by an integrated rail feature (20) at the end of the spoon handle. Correspondingly, a longitudinal groove (21) is formed on the underside of each compartment. During assembly, the rail (20) engages with this groove (21), guiding the compartment in a precise linear, sliding motion.

[0043] Anti-Shake and Positioning Features:

[0044] To ensure stable attachment and prevent unwanted play, the compartments incorporate specialized geometric features on their lower surfaces.

[0045] Lateral Alignment Protrusions (22): Each compartment features two protrusions (22). These act as lateral guides, restricting movement along the X-axis (side-to-side). They ensure thecompartment remains correctly aligned on the rail and prevent shaking or wobbling when secured.

[0046] Longitudinal Retention Protrusion (23): A central protruding feature (23) is also provided. Its primary function is to prevent unintended movement along the Y-axis (forward-backward). Given the necessary manufacturing tolerances for smooth sliding action, a small amount of clearance is inherent in the rail-groove interface. Without feature (23), this clearance could allow minor but undesirable shifting of the compartment along its longitudinal path. Protrusion (23) effectively eliminates this play, locking the compartment firmly in its intended position when engaged.

[0047] Handle Ergonomics and Preliminary Locking Overview (Figs. 3 & 4a):

[0048] Ergonomic and Branding Feature (Fig. 3):

[0049] When the detachable compartments are removed, a raised feature (30) is revealed on the spoon handle. While illustrated here with a coffee bean aesthetic, the form of member 30 is adaptable; it can be shaped as a corporate logo, emblem, or any other decorative or functional design.

[0050] This feature serves a dual purpose:

[0051] Ergonomic Function: The underlying handle structure has a central recess (31). Without the raised feature (30), this recess creates an uncomfortable depression for the user’s thumb or finger during use. Member (30) fills this recess, creating a smooth, continuous, and ergonomic surface that is flush with the surrounding handle area (320), significantly improving grip comfort and user experience.

[0052] Branding Opportunity: The feature provides a prominent, customizable area for brand identification or decorative styling.

[0053] Additionally, a transverse groove (32) is present at the extreme end of the handle. The function of this groove will be detailed in a subsequent section.

[0054] Locking Mechanism - Engaged State (Fig. 4a):

[0055] Figure 4a illustrates the primary locking mechanism in its default, locked position with compartments (411 , 412) installed. In this state:

[0056] The flexible locking arms (40, 41) are in their neutral, unbent position.A defined gap exists between the inner surfaces of arms (40, 41) and the central retaining member (42).

[0057] The corresponding groove feature (432) on the housing is properly aligned.

[0058] In this configuration, the compartments (411, 412) are positively locked onto the spoon handle. The geometry of the arms (40, 41) and member (42) prevents the compartments from disengaging spontaneously under normal conditions, ensuring secure transport and handling.

[0059] Locking Mechanism - Actuation Principle (Referenced from Figs. 4b & 4c):

[0060] The process of installing or removing a compartment involves deforming this locking mechanism. As shown in Figures 4b and 4c, when a user applies force to slide a compartment on or off, the leading edge of the compartment contacts the arms (40, 41). This contact forces the arms to elastically bend inward toward the central member (42), reducing or eliminating the gap between them. Concurrently, the bending action causes the associated groove feature (432) to become disengaged or obscured, allowing the compartment to translate past the locking feature. This elastic deformation provides the necessary clearance for the compartment’s movement.

[0061] Selective Single-Compartment Removal (Fig. 4b):

[0062] Figure 4b demonstrates the removal of a single compartment (412). To disengage it, the user pulls it backward along the rail. This action introduces combined mechanical loads on the locking arms (40, 41), subjecting them to both bending moments (causing inward deflection) and torsional moments (causing twisting).

[0063] Functional Advantage - Prevention of Accidental Release:

[0064] This design is critical for a specific use-case scenario. Consider a user holding the spoon with the handle compartments oriented downward. In this orientation, the sliding removal direction is aligned with gravity. If the arms (40, 41) deformed under pure bending only, the inward deflection while removing compartment (412) could inadvertently create enough clearance for the adjacent compartment (411) to also slide loose and fall under its own weight.

[0065] The inventive incorporation of torsional loading solves this problem. When one compartment (412) is pulled, the generated torsion twists the rail engagement features (420), effectively maintaining a locking force on the stationary compartment (411). Thus, while one compartment is being deliberately removed, the other remains securely locked in place, preventing accidental loss of contents.Simultaneous Dual-Compartment Removal (Fig. 4c):

[0066] Figure 4c illustrates the alternative operation where both compartments (411 , 412) are removed concurrently. When the user applies equal outward force to both compartments, the forces on the locking arms (40, 41) are balanced. This results primarily in bending moments that symmetrically deflect the arms inward, without inducing significant torsion. With both arms deflected and the locking features disengaged, both compartments slide freely off the handle in unison.

[0067] Compartment Geometry Variants (Fig. 5):

[0068] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to a specific compartment geometry. Figure 5 presents an alternative embodiment where the detachable compartments (511 , 512) function identically (i.e., via a sliding mechanism) but are formed with an oval cross-sectional shape. This exemplifies the design flexibility for aesthetic, branding, or volumetric considerations, and other shapes (rectangular, polygonal, etc.) are equally applicable.

[0069] Alternative Detachment Mechanisms and Material Considerations:

[0070] The invention encompasses alternative embodiments for compartment detachment beyond the primary sliding mechanism.

[0071] Break-Away Mechanism (Fig. 5):

[0072] One such alternative employs a break-away or frangible connection. As shown, predefined weak points, or break lines (50), are formed on the spoon handle. The user removes the compartment (51) by applying a pulling or twisting force, causing a clean fracture at these designed points (50). This provides a simple, single-use detachment method.

[0073] Hybrid Detachment Mechanism (Fig. 5):

[0074] The detachment methods can also be combined. The figure further illustrates an embodiment where a primary compartment (54) is connected to the spoon handle via break points (52). A secondary compartment (53) is then mounted onto the primary compartment (54) using a sliding interface. Thus, the user first breaks compartment (54) free, and can then optionally slide compartment (53) off of (54), allowing for sequential or selective additive release.Sealed-Insert Embodiment (Fig. 6):

[0075] Figure 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment focusing on secure, tamper-evident containment. In this design, a receptacle or cavity (60) is formed at the end of the spoon handle, shaped to receive a dedicated detachable pod or insert (61 ). This pod features an integral perimeter flange (62).

[0076] Assembly and Tamper-Evident Sealing:

[0077] During assembly, the pod (61) is inserted into the cavity (60) until its flange (62) sits flush with the surrounding handle surface (63). A tamper-evident seal — typically a foil laminate (e.g., aluminum) or a plastic film (64) — is then applied over the joint. This seal adhesively bonds the pod flange (62) to the handle surface (63), creating a unitary structure.

[0078] Function and User Operation:

[0079] This sealing method provides a robust, hermatic lock. The pod (61) is immovably fixed to the handle; it cannot be slid, twisted, or accidentally detached without compromising the seal (64) This guarantees the integrity and hygiene of the contents until the point of use. To access the contents, the user must first peel or break the tamper-evident seal (64). Once the seal is removed, the adhesive or cohesive bond is broken, and the pod (61) can be easily separated from the handle cavity (60).

[0080] Snap-Fit Engagement Embodiment (Figs. 7, 8a, 8b):

[0081] Figure 7 introduces another alternative attachment mechanism based on a snap-fit or positive mechanical engagement principle. This design prioritizes rapid, secure assembly while maintaining user-friendly detachment.

[0082] In this embodiment, the end of the spoon handle is equipped with several flexible locking features integrally molded with the handle. These include side members (71 , 72) and a central tab (74). Each of these features incorporates a recess or undercut (73).

[0083] Function of the Locking Features:

[0084] These recesses (73) serve as positive engagement points. When the detachable container (75) is pressed onto the handle, corresponding protruding features on the container (see Fig. 8a) snap into these recesses (73). This creates an audible and tactile "click," confirming secure installation and mechanically locking the container against movement in the X and Y axes (side-to-side and forward-backward).Role of the Central Support:

[0085] Simultaneously, the central tab (74) functions as a locating and vertical support. It engages with a matching feature on the container, primarily limiting movement along the Z-axis (vertical direction relative to the spoon's plane) and providing primary load-bearing support to prevent rocking or pivoting.

[0086] Snap-Fit Mechanism - Operation and Design Flexibility (Figs. 8a & 8b):

[0087] Snap Engagement Process (Fig. 8a):

[0088] The detachable container features a dedicated engagement section (80) geometrically complementary to the handle's locking features (871 , 872, 874). During installation, the user aligns and pushes the container forward. This action causes the flexible side members (871 , 872) and the central tab (874) on the handle to elastically deflect outward (to the sides), allowing the container's section (80) to pass over them.

[0089] Upon reaching the fully seated position, the handle features (871 , 872, 874) snap back toward their neutral state. Concurrently, integral protrusions (81) on the container's section (80) become aligned with and positively seat into the corresponding recesses (873) on the handle members. This engagement creates a secure, mechanically interlocked connection. The central support (874) also makes full contact with a corresponding surface inside the container, providing vertical (Z-axis) stability.

[0090] Controlled Removal:

[0091] This design ensures the container remains firmly attached during handling and use, resisting accidental dislodgement. Removal is achieved intentionally by the user applying a controlled rearward pulling force sufficient to re-initiate elastic deflection of the handle features (871 , 872, 874), disengaging the protrusions (81) from the recesses (873) and allowing the container to slide free without damage to either component.

[0092] Tunable Mechanical Properties (Fig. 8b):

[0093] The connection's performance is highly tunable. As shown in Fig. 8b, the flexible arms (82) integral to the handle are the primary elastic elements. Key dimensional parameters of these arms — such as thickness, width, length, and cross-sectional geometry — can be modified during the design phase. Altering these parameters directly changes the arms' flexural rigidity, which in turn determines:The installation and removal force required by the user.

[0094] The perceived stiffness or softness of the snap action.

[0095] The retention strength of the connection.

[0096] This allows the mechanism to be precisely calibrated for different materials, user demographics (e.g., ease for elderly users), or desired product feel (e.g., a firm, secure snap vs. a softer click).

[0097] Integrated Structural Rib and Air Vent Feature (Fig. 9):

[0098] Figure 9 depicts a longitudinally extending, groove-shaped rib (90) that is integrally molded with the spoon body, running along the handle and connecting to the spoon bowl.

[0099] Dual-Function Design:

[0100] This feature serves two critical purposes:

[0101] Structural Reinforcement: The rib (90) acts as a stiffening member, significantly increasing the handle's resistance to bending and torsional stresses. This enhances durability during use (e.g., stirring) and provides robustness against mechanical loads encountered during packaging, transportation, and handling.

[0102] Controlled Air Ventilation: In embodiments where the spoon bowl is sealed with a breathable membrane, such as filter paper or a micro-perforated film layer (92), the rib (90) functions as a dedicated air escape channel. When the sealed spoon is submerged in a liquid, trapped air within the bowl cavity (910) is expelled through this channel (90). This prevents the formation of an air pocket that would cause buoyancy, ensuring the spoon sinks and becomes fully immersed for efficient dissolution of its contents.

[0103] Material Specifications:

[0104] The spoon and its components can be fabricated from any suitably rigid, food-safe material capable of withstanding contact with hot liquids (e.g., boiling water). Suitable materials include, but are not limited to, thermoplastics like polypropylene (PP) or polylactic acid (PLA) and other biodegradable or compostable bioplastics.

[0105] The selection must also satisfy specific mechanical property requirements essential for the product's function. Most critically, the material for components subject to dynamic stress — such as the locking arms (40, 41) — must possess an appropriate combination of stiffness, tensile strength, and elastic resilience. It must withstand repeated bending and torsional momentswithout experiencing brittle fracture or permanent plastic deformation, ensuring reliable locking functionality over the intended use cycle.

[0106] Concluding Note on Scope:

[0107] The foregoing description is provided to enable a person skilled in the art to understand the invention. It will be readily understood that various modifications, substitutions, and refinements — such as changes to specific materials, dimensions, or aesthetic details — may be made during the product's manufacturing and development stages without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as disclosed.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:1 . A food packaging spoon, comprising:a main body having a spoon bowl and a handle;at least one removable container for storing a food additive, the removable container being mountable on the handle; anda connecting device disposed between the removable container and the handle, configured to releasably secure the removable container to the handle in an installed state, wherein the removable container is separable from the handle by a user-applied manual force that alters a state of the connecting device; andat least one cover sealed over the spoon bowl and the removable container to prevent leakage of contents therefrom.

2. The food packaging spoon according to claim 1 , wherein a cavity is formed in the handle, the cavity being geometrically complementary to the removable container and configured to receive a flange of the removable container.

3. The food packaging spoon according to claim 2, wherein, when the removable container is received in the cavity, the flange of the removable container is flush with an exterior surface of the handle, and wherein a sealing layer is applied over the flange and the exterior surface to affix the removable container to the handle.

4. The food packaging spoon according to claim 1 , wherein the connecting device comprises at least one frangible connection configured to break upon application of the manual force, thereby separating the removable container from the handle.

5. The food packaging spoon according to claim 1 , wherein the connecting device comprises a sliding mechanism having a rail on the handle and a corresponding groove on the removablecontainer, enabling the removable container to be slidably detached from the handle.

6. The food packaging spoon according to claim 5, wherein the removable container comprises a plurality of protrusions on a surface facing the handle, the protrusions configured to engage the handle and inhibit lateral movement of the removable container when installed.

7. The food packaging spoon according to claim 1 , wherein the connecting device comprises at least one flexible locking arm integrally formed with the handle, the at least one locking arm being elastically deformable to engage and disengage the removable container.

8. The food packaging spoon according to claim 7, wherein the at least one locking arm is configured such that, during removal of a first removable container, the at least one arm experiences combined bending and torsional deformation to retain a second removable container in place, and wherein, during simultaneous removal of multiple removable containers, the at least one arm experiences primarily bending deformation.

9. The food packaging spoon according to claim 1 , wherein the connecting device comprises at least one recess formed in the handle and at least one protrusion on the removable container, the at least one protrusion being configured to snap into the at least one recess in the installed state to form a positive mechanical engagement.

10. The food packaging spoon according to claim 9, further comprising a central support tab on the handle configured to contact a corresponding surface on the removable container to restrict movement of the removable container along a Z-axis.

11. The food packaging spoon according to claim 9, wherein the handle comprises at least one flexible arm adjacent to the at least one recess, wherein dimensional parameters of the at least one flexible arm are selected to determine a force required to separate the removable container from the handle.

12. The food packaging spoon according to claim 1 , further comprising a longitudinal rib integrally formed with the main body, the rib extending along the handle and connecting to the spoon bowl.

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