Helical mixing container and method of use

Abstract

A container system is described. The system includes a container body having multiple sides extending helically between an upper region and a lower region. The upper region includes a container opening, the lower region includes a container base, and a tapered region is disposed between the upper region and the lower region. A container having multiple interior sides extending helically between an upper region and a lower region is also described. A cap system and a method for mixing two ingredients are also described.

Description

008117.12332HELICAL MIXING CONTAINER AND METHOD OF USECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and benefit of U.S. Patent Application No.63 / 774,823 filed on March 20, 2025. The contents of the above listed application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for any and all non-limiting purposes.BACKGROUND

[0002] Containers for holding and dispensing liquids, such as water bottles, protein shaker bottles, and other beverage containers, are ubiquitous in daily life. These containers come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Despite the widespread use of these containers, several problems persist that affect their functionality, user experience, and overall effectiveness.

[0003] One significant issue with conventional containers is the inefficiency in mixing or blending contents. For example, protein shaker bottles often require additional mixing elements, such as a whisk ball or agitator, to adequately blend powders with liquids. This can be inconvenient for users and may not always result in a smooth mixture, leaving clumps of powder that can be unpleasant to consume, require additional mixing, and throw off the intended ratio of the blended mixture.

[0004] Another problem is the difficulty in cleaning these containers. The presence of the additional mixing elements such as a whisk ball or agitator is one more component to clean and keep track of. They’re often very difficult to clean as they typically have a buildup of unmixed powder or solid material that remains unblended and was otherwise intended for the blended fluid mixture. They can also be difficult to dry properly, and further require volume in the container for mixing that could otherwise be used to hold additional fluid or solid material for mixing. Further, many containers have narrow openings or intricate internal structures that make it challenging to thoroughly clean them. Residue from previous contents can accumulate, leading to potential health risks and unpleasant odors. This issue is exacerbated in containers used for protein shakes or other nutritional supplements that tend to leave sticky residues.

[0005] Leakage is also a common problem with many containers. Poorly designed lids or seals can result in spills, especially in bottles that users are shaking for making a blended mix.008117.12332Spillage is not only messy but can also lead to the loss of valuable contents. For users who carry their containers in bags or backpacks, leakage is prone to damaging other items.

[0006] One solution eliminating the need for a separate mixing element is disclosed in US Patent No. 9,420,920 to Holmes, disclosing a beverage container having a helical internal wall structure. The helical internal wall structure generates a vortical flow upon shaking, enhancing mixing ability for blending solids such as powder into liquid for forming a blended mix. Embodiments disclosed herein further address the gaps in the art by providing improved helical beverage containers and methods of mixing a solid and liquid, maintaining ease of cleaning, providing even more enhanced mixing without an extra mixing component, and providing superior leakage prevention.SUMMARY

[0007] This Summary introduces a selection of concepts relating to this technology in a simplified form as a prelude to the Detailed Description that follows. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features.

[0008] In one example, a container system includes a container body having multiple interior sides extending helically between an upper region and a lower region,

[0009] Wherein the upper region comprises a container opening, wherein the lower region comprises a container base, and wherein a tapered region is disposed between the upper region and the lower region. Tn one or more examples, the container system includes an inner cap comprising inner cap lower threads on an interior of the inner cap, inner cap upper threads on an exterior of the inner cap, and an inner cap upper opening disposed above the inner cap upper threads. In one or more examples, the container body includes container threads surrounding the container opening on an exterior of the container body and configured to mate with the inner cap lower threads. In one or more examples, the inner cap includes a first gasket configured to interface along a rim of the container opening. In one or more examples, the container system includes an outer cap comprising outer cap threads on an interior of the outer cap and configured to mate with the inner cap upper threads. In one or more examples, the outer cap includes a second gasket configured to interface along a rim of the inner cap upper opening. In one or more examples, the first and second gaskets are flexible rings. In one or more examples, the first and second gaskets comprise at least one of a polymer, rubber and silicone. In one or more examples, the plurality of interior helical sides are separated by interior008117.12332helical wall edges. In one or more examples, the interior helical wall edges are angled. In one or more examples, the interior helical wall edges are rounded. In one or more examples, the interior helical sides have at least one of a substantially flat, planar and curved interior surface. In one or more examples, a largest diameter of the lower region is smaller than a smallest diameter of a majority of the upper region. In one or more examples, the base comprises a perimeter having a plurality of flat segments. In one or more examples, the base comprises a perimeter having a plurality of flat segments. In one or more examples, the intenor sides include at least 3 interior sides. In one or more examples, the interior sides include at least 4 interior sides. In one or more examples, the interior sides include at least 5 interior sides. In one or more examples, the interior sides include at least 6 interior sides. In one or more examples, a method of mixing at least two ingredients in a container includes providing the container system, adding at least one solid and one liquid, and shaking the container system.

[0010] In one or more examples, a container includes a container body having flexible interior sides extending helically between an upper region and a lower region, wherein the upper region comprises a container opening, and wherein the lower region comprises a container base. In one or more examples, a method of mixing at least two ingredients in a container includes the steps of providing the container, adding at least one solid and one liquid, and shaking the container system.

[0011] In one or more examples, a cap system for a beverage container includes an inner cap having inner cap lower threads on an interior of the inner cap, inner cap upper threads on an exterior of the inner cap, and an inner cap upper opening disposed above the inner cap upper threads. In one or more examples, the inner cap comprises a first gasket configured to interface along a rim of a container opening. In one or more examples, the cap system includes an outer cap comprising outer cap threads on an interior of the outer cap and configured to mate with the inner cap upper threads. In one or more examples, the outer cap comprises a second gasket configured to interface along a rim of the inner cap upper opening. In one or more examples, the first and second gaskets are flexible rings. In one or more examples, the first and second gaskets comprise at least one of a polymer, rubber and silicone.

[0012] These and additional features will be appreciated with the benefit of the disclosures discussed in further detail below.008117.12332BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The foregoing Summary, as well as the following Detailed Description, will be better understood when considered in conj unction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in all of the various views in which that reference number appears.

[0014] Figure 1A is a side view of a container system.

[0015] Figure IB is perspective view of a container system.

[0016] Figure 1C is an alternate perspective view of a container system.

[0017] Figure ID is a cross-sectional side view of a container system.

[0018] Figure IE is a cross-sectional side view of a container system with outer cap removed.

[0019] Figure IF is a cross-sectional view of a container system with outer cap and inner cap removed.

[0020] Figure 1G is a perspective cutaway view of a container body.

[0021] Figure 1H is an alternate perspective cutaway view of a container body.

[0022] Figure 2A is a side view of a container system.

[0023] Figure 2B is perspective view of a container.

[0024] Figure 2C is an alternate perspective view of a container system.

[0025] Figure 2D is a cross-sectional view of a container system.

[0026] Figure 2E is a diagram of a hyperboloid geometry narrowing in the middle, depicting the profde of a flexible bottle narrow ing under an applied grip force.

[0027] Further, it is to be understood that the drawings may represent the scale of different components of various examples; however, the disclosed examples are not limited to that particular scale. Further, the drawings should not be interpreted as requiring a certain scale unless otherwise stated.008117.12332DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] In the following description of the various examples and components of this disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example structures and environments in which aspects of the disclosure may be practiced. It is to be understood that other structures and environments may be utilized, and that structural and functional modifications may be made from the specifically described structures and methods without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0029] Also, while the terms "front." “top,” “base,” “bottom,” and “side” and the like may be used in this specification to describe various example features and elements, these terms are used herein as a matter of convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the figures and / or the orientations in typical use. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three-dimensional or spatial orientation of structures in order to fall within the scope of the claims.

[0030] It is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of the present disclosure have been simplified to illustrate elements that are relevant for a clear understanding of the present invention, while eliminating, for the purpose of clarity, many other elements found in related systems and methods. Those of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that other elements and / or steps may be desirable and / or in implementing examples of the present disclosure. However, because such elements and steps are well known in the art, and because they do not facilitate a better understanding of the present invention, a discussion of such elements and steps is not provided herein. The disclosure herein is directed to all such variations and modifications to such elements and methods known to those skilled in the art.

[0031] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, exemplary methods and materials are described.

[0032] As used herein, each of the following terms has the meaning associated with it in this section.008117.12332

[0033] The articles “a” and “an” are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i. e. , to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, “an element” means one element or more than one element.

[0034] “About” as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of ±20%, ±10%, ±5%, ±1%, and ±0.1% from the specified value, as such variations are appropriate.

[0035] Throughout this disclosure, various aspects can be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4. from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 2.7, 3, 4, 5, 5.3, 6 and any whole and partial increments therebetween. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0036] Example configurations described herein include a helical beverage container with enhanced mixing capabilities. In one or more example configurations, a helical beverage container includes a tapered region disposed between an upper wider portion and a lower narrower portion. Thus, in addition to vortical flow, the tapered region provided an additional dimension of flow transition between a condensed vortical flow in the lower narrower portion to an expanded vortical flow in the upper wider portion. With each down-and-up shake of the container, the interior wall structure generates a dual action of vortical flows coupled with transitions between condensed and expanded flows, resulting in a cycle of (1) forward condensed vortical flow (lower region), (2) forward expanding vortical flow (tapered region), (3) forward expanded vortical flow (upper region), (4) reverse expanded vortical flow (upper region), (5) reverse condensing vortical flow (tapered region), and (6) reverse condensed vortical flow (lower region). This progression repeats with every down-and-up shake of the container and advantageously provided enhanced mixing by generating extra dimensional movement of the fluid, providing enhanced fluid mixing dynamics with each shake-cycle of the container. The tapered region generates an inward-outward dimension of condensing-expanding vortical flow, improving time-to-mix and the quality of the blended mix through.008117.12332

[0037] Additional or alternative example configurations include a helical beverage container having flexible helical side walls. Thus gripping the container while shaking it modifies the interior to a hyperboloid profile, with the center of the hyperboloid profile narrowing as the user exerts more force on their grip. Similar to the examples described above, with each down-and-up shake of the container, the interior wall structure generates a dual action of vortical flows coupled with transitions between condensed and expanded flows. The resulting shake-cycle generates a (1) forward condensing vortical flow (lower region), (2) forward expanding vortical flow (upper region), (3) reverse condensing vortical flow (upper region), and (4) reverse condensing vortical flow (lower region). Still further, since the geometry of the hyperboloid profile narrows as the user exerts more force on their grip and widens as the user exerts less force on their grip, this example configuration includes an additional factor of variable interior geometry, constantly changing the dimension of the interior. Accordingly, this progression includes a variable geometry in parallel with the general progression that repeats with every down-and-up shake of the container. Advantageously, enhanced mixing is provided by generating increased multi-dimensional movement of the fluid with each shake of the container, again improving time-to-mix and the quality of the final blended mix.

[0038] Referring to Figures 1A-1C, an exterior view of the beverage container 100 is depicted. The beverage container 100 includes a container body 101 with exterior helical walls 102 extending along the upper region 104, tapered region 106, and lower region 108. The exterior helical walls 102 are defined by exterior helical wall edges 110, which provide structural integrity and facilitate mixing. The wall edges 110 may for example meet at a sharp angle or be a rounded transition. The exterior helical walls 102 terminate in the lower region at a base 112. The exterior helical walls 102 may also terminate into a non-helical wall region above the base, such as a round region w ithout defined walls or a region that transitions to some other geometry. An inner cap 140 is secured at the top of the container body 101. An outer cap 120 caps off the beverage container 100 by attached to the inner cap 140. Starting from the bottom and moving upwards, the exterior helical walls 102 and exterior helical wall edges 110 extend up from the base 112 of the beverage container 100 through the lower region 108, the tapered region 106 gradually flares wider and transitions to the upper region 104, which is wider than the lower region 108. In one or more example configurations, the largest diameter of the lower region 108 is smaller than most or all diameters along the upper region 104. In one or more additional or alternative example configurations, diameters along a majority of the008117.12332lower region 108 of the interior chamber 103 remain constant. In one or more additional or alternative example configurations, diameters along a majority of the upper region 104 of the interior chamber 103 remain constant.

[0039] With reference now to Figure ID, the interior helical walls 105 are defined by interior helical wall edges 111 within the container body 101 and at least partially define the interior chamber 103. The interior helical walls 105 extend upwards from an interior surface of the base 112, to the lower region 108, then the tapered region 106, then upper region 104. The interior wall edges 111 may for example meet at a sharp angle, a rounded transition, or some other type of transition. The interior helical walls 105 terminate in the lower region at the base 112. or terminate into a non-helical interior wall region above the base, such as a round region without defined walls or a region that transitions to some other geometry. The interior helical w alls 105 may be flat, substantially flat or have a convex or concave geometry’ between interior helical wall edges 111. The interior helical w alls 105 and the interior helical w all edges 111 provide structural support and enhance mixing capabilities, thus eliminating a need for a mixing insert. Mixing is further enhanced by the inclusion of the tapered region 106, adding an additional mixing dimension.

[0040] The tapered region 106 is comprised of sides that generally decrease in cross-sectional area from the upper region 104 to the lower region 108. The cross-sectional area at the uppermost portion of the tapered region 106 is designed such that it is no larger than the smallest cross-sectional area of the upper region 104. The cross-sectional area at the lowermost portion of the tapered region 106 is no smaller than the largest cross-sectional area of the lower region 108.

[0041] Finally, the cross-sectional area throughout the area between the uppermost and lowermost cross-sectional areas of the tapered region 106 generally decreases from the uppermost to the low ermost portion. In effect, this creates a tapered posture that increases the volumetric flow rate of a contained solution and any suspended ingredients when solution in the beverage container 100 is directed from the upper region 104 through the tapered region 106. This increase in volumetric flow rate improves agitation and thus improves the mixing capabilities of the beverage container 100.

[0042] The base 112 may include a protrusion that protrudes from an interior surface of the base 112 into the lower region 108 of the beverage container 100. The protrusion 114 may008117.12332be round, square, and / or pointed. The protrusion 114 may prevent dry powder ingredients from adhering to themselves, or ‘clumping up. ' The increase in volumetric flow rate provided by the tapered region 106 further increases the effectiveness of the protrusion 114 in two ways.

[0043] First, the shape of the protrusion 114 may cause the contained solution to disperse outward, thus creating a localized in-to-out flow pattern. This in-to-out flow pattern flows over any undissolved solute, which increases the amount and force of the solvent that contacts the undissolved solute, resulting in increased efficacy of mixing. As volumetric flowrate of the contained solution mixture increases through the tapered region 106, so too does the in-to-out flowrate. Higher flowrates provide for better mixing, thus eliminating a need for a mixing insert.

[0044] The base 112 may include one or more protrusions 114 in various configurations. In some aspects, the base 112 may include a single central protrusion 114. In some aspects, the base 112 may include multiple protrusions 114 arranged in a pattern, such as a radial pattern, a grid pattern, a helical pattern, or a random pattern. In some aspects, the base 112 may include two, three, four, five, six, or more protrusions 114. The protrusion 114 may have various cross-sectional shapes. In some aspects, the protrusion 114 may have a circular, elliptical, triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, star-shaped, or irregular cross-section. In some aspects, the protrusion 114 may have a cross-sectional shape that corresponds to or complements the helical geometry of the interior helical walls 105. The protrusion 114 may have various three-dimensional shapes. In some aspects, the protrusion 114 may be conical, pyramidal, hemispherical, dome-shaped, cylindrical, frustoconical, or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the protrusion 114 may have a pointed apex, a rounded apex, a flat apex, or a concave apex. In some aspects, the protrusion 114 may include surface features such as ridges, grooves, dimples, or texturing to further enhance mixing. The height of the protrusion 114 may be selected to optimize mixing performance. In some aspects, the protrusion 114 may have a height in a range from about 5% to about 50% of the height of the lower region 108. In some aspects, the protrusion 114 may have a height in a range from about 10% to about 30% of the height of the lower region 108. In some aspects, the protrusion 114 may have a height in a range from about 5 mm to about 50 mm. In some aspects, the protrusion 114 may have a height in a range from about 10 mm to about 25 mm. The protrusion 114 may be solid or hollow. In some aspects, a hollow protrusion 114 may reduce material usage and weight while008117.12332maintaining mixing functionality. In some aspects, a solid protrusion 114 may provide increased durability and thermal mass.

[0045] Similarly, as the contained solution is directed from the lower region 108 through the tapered region 106, pressure of the solution in the beverage container 100 increases. This pressure increase results in an increase in the surface area of the solution, effectively forcing the solution and any suspended ingredients outwards into the interior helical walls 105 and interior helical wall edges 111 which obstructs the flow of material during the mixing to increase disruptive contact and enhance agitation of the at least two ingredients.

[0046] The beverage container 100 may comprise an outer cap 120 that attaches to the beverage container 100 by mating the outer cap threads 124 with the inner cap upper threads 148 (See Figure IE). The outer cap threads may, in some aspects, be generally disposed along a cap lining 127.

[0047] The cap lining 127 may be attached to the interior side of the outer cap 120 and can be made of rubber, silicone, polymer, or any suitable non-porous material. The cap lining 127 also forms a plug 126 wherein the exterior wall of the plug 126 is defined by the exterior wall of an outer cap gasket channel 129. The plug 126 mates, or nestles, within the inner cap upper opening 144 (See Figure IE). Once mated, the plus 126 helps to form a substantially watertight seal, thus blocking access to liquids which may leave or enter the beverage container 100.

[0048] The outer cap gasket channel 129 houses an outer cap gasket 128. When the outer cap 120 is secured to the inner cap 140, the outer cap gasket 128 makes contact with the inner cap upper opening rim 145 (See Figure IE) which compresses the outer cap gasket 128 into the outer cap gasket channel 129.

[0049] Once sufficiently compressed, the outer cap gasket 128 blocks access to liquids and contributes to the substantially watertight seal of the beverage container 100. The outer cap gasket 128 may be rubber, silicone, polymer, or any suitable non-porous material. The gaskets may also for example be replaced by a press-fit eliminating the need for a flexible ring. Thus for example the container opening 119 or inner cap upper opening 144 can interface with a channel instead of a gasket, such that the channel is structured to allow the container opening 119 or inner cap upper opening 144 to press-fit into the channel forming a water-tight seal.008117.12332

[0050] A handle 122 may be fastened to the outer cap 120. In one or more example configurations, the handle 122 may be fixed. In one or more other example configurations, the handle 122 may be movable. The handle 122 may be attached to the outer cap 120 via a fastening tab 123. A handle fastener 121 secures the fastening tab 123, and thus the handle 122, to an exterior surface of the outer cap 120. The handle 122 may be D-shaped, as depicted in Figure ID, crescent-shape, arched, squared, substantially cy lindrical, substantially circular, or any combination of these shapes.

[0051] Figure IE depicts another interior, cross-sectional view of the beverage container 100 comprising an inner cap 140. The inner cap 140 comprises inner cap upper threads 148, inner cap lower threads 147, an inner cap gasket 142, an inner cap gasket channel 143, an inner cap upper opening 144, an inner cap upper opening rim 145.

[0052] The inner cap 140 attaches to the container body 101 by mating the inner cap lower threads 147 with the container threads 116 (See Figure IF). The inner cap gasket 142 is in the inner cap gasket channel and contacts the container opening rim 118 (See Figure IF) when the inner cap 140 is secured to the container body 101. The inner cap gasket 142 compresses and creates a substantially watertight seal around the container body 101, further reducing potential leakage from the beverage container 100.

[0053] The inner cap gasket channel 143 is defined by various walls of the inner cap 140. A non-threaded portion of the inner cap 140 may extend vertically from the inner cap lower threads 147 then extend horizontally to connect with a vertical region of an inner cap lip. The inner cap lip comprises a surface that extends to the base of the inner cap upper opening rim 145. The surface shape of the inner cap lip may be bulbous, concave, convex, or generally planar. The inner cap gasket 142 may be made from rubber, silicon, polymer, or any suitably compressible, non-porous material.

[0054] The inner cap upper opening rim 145 defines the inner cap upper opening 144. The inner cap upper opening rim 145 and the inner cap upper opening 144 are designed and / or configured for a controlled pour of the contained solution to minimize and / or prevent spillage while dispensing or consuming the contents of the beverage container 100. In some aspects, this spillage reduction measure is accomplished by ensuring that a diameter, or cross-sectional area, of the inner cap upper opening 144 is smaller than the diameter, or cross-sectional area, of the container opening 119 (See Figure IF). This design results in a smoother, more laminar008117.12332flow exiting the inner cap 140, which is easier to pour and easier to consume than conventional shaker bottles, or lids that encourage turbulent flow.

[0055] The inner cap lip may further contribute to a reduction in turbulent flow. The vertical section of the inner cap tip may comprise a base that protrudes along an x-axis plane past the container opening rim 118 and over the container opening 119. forming a flow dampening shelf. As the contained solution travels towards the interior of the inner cap 140, and ultimately the inner cap upper opening, some portions interact with the flow dampening shelf. The shelf absorbs flow energy7from the travelling solution, thus lowering the flowrate of the solution. Flowrate is a contributor to flow turbulence. Thus, the shelf encourages laminar flow, or at least discourages turbulent flow, when it absorbs and removes flow energy from the solution.

[0056] Figure IF shows a cross-sectional view of the container body 101 without the inner cap 140 and outer cap 120 attached. The container opening rim 118 extends from the container body 101, comprises the container threads 116, and defines the container opening 119. In some aspects, the container opening 119 is large enough to allow a user to add one or more scoops of dry ingredients, such as but not limited to protein powders, electrolyte powder, and / or flavored drink mix. The diameter, or cross-sectional area, of the container opening 119 is generally no larger than the cross-sectional area of the upper region 104, nor the inner cap lower threads 147, which define an inner cap lower opening.

[0057] The interior helical walls 105 may comprise interior helical wall edges 111, and extend from the base 112 through the lower region 108, tapered region 106, and upper region 104, ultimately terminating at the base of the container threads 116.

[0058] Figures IGand 1H offer detailed views ofthe interior helical walls 105 and exterior helical walls 102. Figure 1G highlights the exterior helical wall edges 110 and interior helical wall edges 111 along the upper region 104, tapered region 106, and lower region 108. Figure 1H provides a top-down view illustrating the substantially helical shape of the interior of the beverage container 100, and that the substantially helical shape extends to the base 112.

[0059] The exterior and / or interior of the beverage container 100 may be constructed of stainless steel, titanium, or any durable material. A low or no pressure void may be formed and sealed betw een the exterior and interior surfaces of the beverage container 100.008117.12332

[0060] The container body 101 may be constructed from a variety of materials suitable for food and beverage contact. In some aspects, the container body 101 may be constructed from one or more polymers, including but not limited to polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), polycarbonate, Tritan copolyester, or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the container body 101 may be constructed from one or more metals, including but not limited to stainless steel (such as 18 / 8 or 304 grade stainless steel), titanium, aluminum, or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the container body 101 may comprise a combination of polymer and metal components. The wall thickness of the container body 101 may vary' depending on the material selected and the desired structural and thermal properties. In some aspects, the wall thickness may be in a range from about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm. In some aspects, the wall thickness may be in a range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. In some aspects, the wall thickness may be in a range from about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm. The interior surface of the container body 101 may have surface characteristics that facilitate mixing and cleaning. In some aspects, the interior surface may- have a surface roughness (Ra) in a range from about 0.1 micrometers to about 10 micrometers. In some aspects, the interior surface may be hydrophobic to reduce adhesion of liquids and powders. In some aspects, the interior surface may be hydrophilic to promote wetting and dispersion of dry- ingredients. In some aspects, the interior surface may include a coating or treatment to modify surface energy characteristics. The materials used for the container body 101, inner cap 140. outer cap 120, and gaskets may be selected to comply with applicable food contact regulations, such as FDA food contact requirements or equivalent standards in other jurisdictions.

[0061] The container body 101 may be manufactured using various processes depending on the selected material. In some aspects, a polymer container body 101 may be manufactured by injection molding, blow molding, injection stretch blow molding, rotational molding, thermoforming, or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the helical geometry- of the interior helical walls 105 and exterior helical walls 102 may be formed during the molding process using a mold having corresponding helical features. In some aspects, a collapsible or multi-part mold core may be used to facilitate removal of the container body 101 from the mold while preserving the helical interior geometry-. In some aspects, a metal container body 101 may be manufactured by metal spinning, hydroforming, deep drawing, stamping, casting, machining, or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the helical geometry may be formed by spinning a metal blank over a mandrel having helical features. In some aspects, the helical geometry- may008117.12332be formed by hydroforming a metal tube within a die having helical features. In some aspects, the container body 101 may be formed from multiple metal components that are joined by welding, brazing, adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening, or combinations thereof. In some aspects, the flexible container 202 may be manufactured by blow molding a flexible polymer material. In some aspects, the flexible container 202 may be manufactured by thermoforming a flexible polymer sheet. In some aspects, the helical geometry’ of the flexible container 202 may be formed during the molding process and may be configured to maintain the helical profile when the container is in a relaxed state while permitting deformation to a hyperboloid profile when grip force is applied.

[0062] The inner and outer cap system provides an improved cap system that can be implemented on a variety of beverage containers or other types of containers, regardless of whether the container has helical sides. Thus, a cap system may include the inner cap having inner cap lower threads on an interior of the inner cap, inner cap upper threads on an exterior of the inner cap, and an inner cap upper opening disposed above the inner cap upper threads. The cap system may for example be a standalone system provided without the container, provided with a container, or provided as a universal cap system that fits various classes and styles of containers. In one or more example configurations, the inner cap has a first gasket configured to interface along a rim of a container opening. In one or more additional or alternative example configurations, the cap system includes an outer cap comprising outer cap threads on an interior of the outer cap and configured to mate with the inner cap upper threads. In one or more additional or alternative example configurations, the outer cap may comprise a second gasket configured to interface along a rim of the inner cap upper opening. In one or more additional or alternative configurations, the first and second gaskets are flexible rings. In one or more additional or alternative configurations, the first and second gaskets comprise at least one of a polymer, rubber and silicone.

[0063] Figure 2A depicts another example configuration of the present disclosure by’ way of the beverage container 200. The beverage container 200 comprises a flexible container 202 with exterior helical walls 205 extending along the upper region 201, central region 214, and lower region 204. The exterior helical walls 205 are defined by exterior helical wall edges 206. The flexible container 202 terminates at a base 212. A cap 208 is positioned at the top of the flexible container 202, and a nozzle 210 is located on the cap 208.008117.12332

[0064] The lower region 204 may be tapered downward from the lowermost portion of the central region 214 to the base 212. Alternatively, the central region 214 tapers downward from the upper region towards the lower region 204. The upper region 201 may taper upwards, with the wide side of the taper in contact with the uppermost portion of the central region 214.

[0065] Figures 2B and 2C show a perspective view of the beverage container 200. The cap 208 comprises the nozzle 210. The exterior helical walls 205 and exterior helical wall edges 206 navigate from the base 212 through the lower region 204, the central region 214, and the upper region 201, ultimately terminating at the base of the threaded rim 216.

[0066] Figure 2D shows a cross-sectional view of the interior of beverage container 200. The interior helical side walls 207 navigate through the lower region 204, the central region 214, and the upper region 201, ultimately extending from the upper region 201 to form the threaded rim 216. The interior helical side wall edges 203 define the interior helical side walls 207 and provide enhanced mixing capabilities.

[0067] The cap 208 comprises cap threads 218 and a nozzle 210. The cap 208 attaches to the flexible container 202 by mating the cap threads 218 to the threaded rim 216. The beverage container 200 may be constructed of pliable material, such as plastic or other flexible polymer, such that the beverage container 200 may be squeezed by a user of average strength and dexterity.

[0068] The beverage container 100 and beverage container 200 may be used for a variety of mixing applications. In some aspects, the container may be used for preparing protein shakes, meal replacement beverages, or other nutritional supplement drinks by mixing protein powder, meal replacement powder, or supplement powder with water, milk, or other liquids. In some aspects, the container may be used for preparing infant formula by mixing powdered formula with water. In some aspects, the container may be used for preparing electrolyte drinks, energy drinks, or hydration beverages by mixing powdered drink mixes, for example, with water. In some aspects, the container may be used for preparing food items such as salad dressings, marinades, sauces, batters, or other culinary mixtures. In some aspects, the container may be used for preparing beverages such as cocktails, mixed drinks, iced coffee, iced tea, smoothies, or other blended beverages. In some aspects, the container may be used for reconstituting powdered soups, gravies, or other dehydrated food products. In some aspects, the container may be used in laboratory, pharmaceutical, or industrial applications for mixing008117.12332suspensions, emulsions, solutions, or other fluid mixtures. In some aspects, the container may be used for mixing paints, coatings, adhesives, or other non-food materials. In some aspects, the container may be used for mixing cleaning solutions, detergents, or other household products. The enhanced mixing capabilities provided by the helical interior geometry and tapered region may reduce mixing time compared to conventional containers.

[0069] Hereinafter, various characteristics will be highlighted in a set of numbered clauses or paragraphs. These characteristics are not to be interpreted as being limiting on the invention or inventive concepts, but are provided merely as a highlighting of some characteristics as described herein, without suggesting a particular order of importance or relevancy of such characteristics.

[0070] Clause 1: A container system comprising: a container body having a plurality of interior sides extending helically between an upper region and a lower region, wherein the upper region comprises a container opening, wherein the lower region comprises a container base, and wherein a tapered region is disposed between the upper region and the lower region.

[0071] Clause 2: The container system of clause 1 further comprising: an inner cap comprising inner cap lower threads on an interior of the inner cap, inner cap upper threads on an exterior of the inner cap, and an inner cap upper opening disposed above the inner cap upper threads.

[0072] Clause 3: The container system of clause 2, wherein the container body comprises container threads surrounding the container opening on an exterior of the container body and configured to mate with the inner cap lower threads.

[0073] Clause 4: The container system of clause 3, wherein the inner cap comprises a first gasket configured to interface along a rim of the container opening.

[0074] Clause 5: The container system of clause 4 further comprising: an outer cap comprising outer cap threads on an interior of the outer cap and configured to mate with the inner cap upper threads.

[0075] Clause 6: The container system of clause 5, wherein the outer cap comprises a second gasket configured to interface along a rim of the inner cap upper opening.008117.12332

[0076] Clause 7 : The container system of clause 6, wherein the first and second gaskets are flexible rings.

[0077] Clause 8: The container system of clause 7, wherein the first and second gaskets comprise at least one of a polymer, rubber and silicone.

[0078] Clause 9: The container system of any of clauses 1-8, wherein the plurality of interior helical sides are separated by interior helical wall edges.

[0079] Clause 10: The container system of clause 9, wherein the interior helical wall edges are angled.

[0080] Clause 11 : The container system of clause 9, wherein the interior helical wall edges are rounded.

[0081] Clause 12: The container system of clause 9, wherein the plurality of interior helical sides have at least one of a substantially flat, planar and curved interior surface.

[0082] Clause 13 : The container system of any of clauses 1-12, wherein a largest diameter of the lower region is smaller than a smallest diameter of a majority of the upper region.

[0083] Clause 14: The container system of any of clauses 1-13, wherein the base comprises a perimeter having a plurality of flat segments.

[0084] Clause 15: The container system of any of clauses 1-14, wherein the base comprises a perimeter having a plurality of flat segments.

[0085] Clause 16: The container system of any of clauses 1-15, wherein the plurality of interior sides comprises at least 3 interior sides.

[0086] Clause 17: The container system of any of clauses 1-16, wherein the plurality of interior sides comprises at least 4 interior sides.

[0087] Clause 18: The container system of any of clauses 1-17. wherein the plurality of interior sides comprises at least 5 interior sides.

[0088] Clause 19: The container sy stem of any of clauses 1-18, wherein the plurality of interior sides comprises at least 6 interior sides.008117.12332

[0089] Clause 20: A method of mixing at least two ingredients in a container comprising: providing the container system of any of clauses 1-19; adding at least one solid and one liquid; and shaking the container system.

[0090] Clause 21 : A container comprising: a container body having a plurality of flexible interior sides extending helically between an upper region and a lower region, wherein the upper region comprises a container opening, and wherein the lower region comprises a container base.

[0091] Clause 22: A method of mixing at least two ingredients in a container comprising: providing the container of clause 21; adding at least one solid and one liquid; and shaking the container system.

[0092] Clause 23: A cap system for a beverage container, the cap system comprising: an inner cap comprising inner cap lower threads on an interior of the inner cap, inner cap upper threads on an exterior of the inner cap, and an inner cap upper opening disposed above the inner cap upper threads.

[0093] Clause 24: The cap system of clause 23. wherein the inner cap comprises a first gasket configured to interface along a rim of a container opening.

[0094] Clause 25: The cap system of clause 24 further comprising: an outer cap comprising outer cap threads on an interior of the outer cap and configured to mate with the inner cap upper threads.

[0095] Clause 26: The cap system of clause 25, wherein the outer cap comprises a second gasket configured to interface along a rim of the inner cap upper opening.

[0096] Clause 27: The cap system of clause 26, wherein the first and second gaskets are flexible rings.

[0097] Clause 28: The cap system of clause 27, wherein the first and second gaskets comprise at least one of a polymer, rubber and silicone.

[0098] The disclosures of each and every patent, patent application, and publication cited herein are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. While examples have been disclosed with reference to specific embodiments and example configurations, it is apparent008117.12332that other configurations and variations may be devised by others skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope of the disclosure

[0099] The present disclosure is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of examples. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide examples of the various features and concepts related to the disclosure, not to limit the scope of the disclosure. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous vanations and modifications may be made to the examples described above without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

008117.12332CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A container system comprising:a container body having a plurality of interior sides extending helically between an upper region and a lower region,wherein the upper region comprises a container opening,wherein the lower region comprises a container base, andwherein a tapered region is disposed between the upper region and the lower region.

2. The container system of claim 1 further comprising:an inner cap comprising inner cap lower threads on an interior of the inner cap, inner cap upper threads on an exterior of the inner cap, and an inner cap upper opening disposed above the inner cap upper threads.

3. The container system of claim 2, wherein the container body comprises container threads surrounding the container opening on an exterior of the container body and configured to mate with the inner cap lower threads.

4. The container system of claim 3, wherein the inner cap comprises a first gasket configured to interface along a rim of the container opening.

5. The container system of claim 4 further comprising:an outer cap comprising outer cap threads on an interior of the outer cap and configured to mate with the inner cap upper threads.

6. The container system of claim 5. wherein the outer cap comprises a second gasket configured to interface along a rim of the inner cap upper opening.

7. The container system of claim 6, wherein the first and second gaskets are flexible rings.008117.123328. The container system of claim 7, wherein the first and second gaskets comprise at least one of a polymer, rubber and silicone.

9. The container system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of interior helical sides are separated by interior helical wall edges.

10. The container system of claim 9, wherein the interior helical wall edges are angled.

11. The container system of claim 9, wherein the interior helical wall edges are rounded.

12. The container system of claim 9. wherein the plurality of interior helical sides have at least one of a substantially flat, planar and curved interior surface.

13. The container system of claim 1, wherein a largest diameter of the lower region is smaller than a smallest diameter of a majority of the upper region.

14. The container system of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a perimeter having a plurality of flat segments.

15. The container system of claim 1. wherein the base comprises a perimeter having a plurality of flat segments.

16. The container system of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of interior sides comprises at least 3 interior sides.

17. The container system of claim 1, wherein the plurality' of interior sides comprises at least 4 interior sides.

18. The container system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of interior sides comprises at least 5 interior sides.

19. The container system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of interior sides comprises at least 6 interior sides.008117.1233220. A method of mixing at least two ingredients in a container comprising:providing the container system of claim 1:adding at least one solid and one liquid; andshaking the container system.

21. A container comprising:a container body having a plurality of flexible interior sides extending helically between an upper region and a lower region, wherein the upper region comprises a container opening, and wherein the lower region comprises a container base.

22. A method of mixing at least two ingredients in a container comprising: providing the container of claim 21;adding at least one solid and one liquid; andshaking the container system.

23. A cap system for a beverage container, the cap system comprising:an inner cap comprising inner cap lower threads on an interior of the inner cap, inner cap upper threads on an exterior of the inner cap, and an inner cap upper opening disposed above the inner cap upper threads.

24. The cap system of claim 23, wherein the inner cap comprises a first gasket configured to interface along a rim of a container opening.

25. The cap system of claim 24 further comprising:an outer cap comprising outer cap threads on an interior of the outer cap and configured to mate with the inner cap upper threads.

26. The cap system of claim 25, wherein the outer cap comprises a second gasket configured to interface along a rim of the inner cap upper opening.

27. The cap system of claim 26, wherein the first and second gaskets are flexible rings.

28. The cap system of claim 27, wherein the first and second gaskets comprise at least one of a polymer, rubber and silicone.

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