BABY BOTTLE POD

Abstract

The device of the present invention includes a compact baby bottle attachment. The device of the present invention is a pod that is functional as a cap to a baby bottle, a storage container for powdered formula, and a dispenser for powdered formula. The device is removably attachable to conventional baby bottles and eases the baby feeding process by storing powdered formula separately from the water reservoir, sealing the powdered formula compartment with a ring plug, and including a nip housing depression to ensure the nip is erect and ready to feed upon removal of the pod.

Claims

1. A device for storing a solute comprising: a first storage compartment; a second storage compartment; and a plug; wherein an upper portion of the second storage compartment is connected to a lower portion of the first storage compartment; wherein a lower portion of the second storage compartment is configured to removably attach to an upper portion of a solvent container; wherein the plug is configured to close and/or seal the first storage compartment by frictionally engaging an orifice defined in an upper portion of the first storage compartment; wherein the first storage compartment is configured to store a solute; wherein the second storage compartment is configured to house a baby bottle nipple extending upwardly from the upper portion of the liquid container; wherein the plug includes a ring and/or an umbrella lip; and wherein the second storage compartment is configured to compress the baby bottle nipple when the second storage compartment is attached to the upper portion of the liquid container.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the orifice of the first storage compartment has a smaller diameter than the diameter of an opening to the solvent container.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the first storage compartment includes smooth interior walls and/or wherein the first storage compartment does not include acute corners.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the first storage compartment includes interior concave walls that are upward and increasingly concave from the interior of the lower portion of the first storage compartment to the upper portion of the first storage compartment.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the solute is powdered baby formula.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the plug is operable to create an airtight, water tight, impermeable, and/or pressure tight seal with the first storage compartment.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the umbrella lip of the plug frictionally engages around and overtop of the upper portion of the first storage compartment.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the ring of the plug is hingedly attached to a top surface of the plug.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the second storage compartment includes a nipple housing protrusion, operable to matingly grip the baby bottle nipple.

11. A device for preparing a baby bottle comprising: a powdered formula storage compartment; a baby bottle nipple compartment; and a ring plug: wherein an upper portion of the baby bottle nipple compartment is connected to a lower portion of the powdered formula storage compartment; wherein a lower portion of the baby bottle nipple compartment is configured to removably attach to an upper portion of a baby bottle; wherein the ring plug is configured to close and/or seal the powdered formula storage compartment by frictionally engaging an orifice of an upper portion of the powdered formula storage compartment; wherein the powdered formula storage compartment is configured to store powdered formula; wherein the baby bottle nipple compartment is configured to house a baby bottle nipple extending upwardly from the upper portion of the baby bottle; wherein the baby bottle nipple compartment includes a nipple housing protrusion extending downwardly from a bottom surface of the baby bottle nipple compartment and configured to compress and erect the baby bottle nipple; and wherein the ring plug includes a ring and an umbrella lip.

12. The device of claim 11, wherein the powdered formula storage compartment and the baby bottle nipple compartment are integrally formed.

13. The device of claim 11, wherein the powdered formula storage compartment includes smooth interior walls and/or wherein the powdered formula storage compartment does not include acute corners.

14. The device of claim 11, wherein the powdered formula storage compartment includes interior concave walls that are upward and increasingly concave from the interior of the lower portion of the powdered formula storage compartment to the upper portion of the powdered formula storage compartment.

15. The device of claim 11, wherein the ring of the ring plug is hingedly attached to a top surface of the ring plug and wherein the ring plug is operable to create an airtight, water tight, impermeable, and/or pressure tight seal with the powdered formula storage compartment.

16. The device of claim 11, wherein the nipple housing protrusion is configured to matingly grip the baby bottle nipple.

17. A system for storing a solute comprising: a first storage compartment; a second storage compartment; a liquid container; and a plug; wherein an upper portion of the second storage compartment is connected to a lower portion of the first storage compartment; wherein a lower portion of the second storage compartment is configured to removably attach to an upper portion of the liquid container; wherein the plug is configured to close and/or seal the first storage compartment by frictionally engaging an orifice defined in an upper portion of the first storage compartment; wherein the first storage compartment is configured to store a solute; wherein the second storage compartment is configured to house a baby bottle nipple extending upwardly from the upper portion of the liquid container; wherein the plug includes a ring and/or an umbrella lip; and wherein the second storage compartment is operable to compress the baby bottle nipple when the second storage compartment is attached to the upper portion of the liquid container.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the first storage compartment and the second storage compartment are integrally formed and permanently connected, wherein the first storage compartment is operable to store powdered baby formula, and wherein the first storage compartment includes smooth interior concave walls that are upward and increasingly concave from the interior of the lower portion of the first storage compartment to the upper portion of the first storage compartment.

19. The system of claim 17, wherein the ring is hingedly attached to a top surface of the plug and wherein the plug is operable to create an airtight, water tight, impermeable, and/or pressure tight seal with the first storage compartment.

20. The system of claim 17, wherein the second storage compartment includes a nipple housing protrusion extending downwardly from a bottom surface of the baby bottle nipple compartment and operable to compress and erect a baby bottle nipple.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0063] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a bottle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 2A illustrates a top view of a divider in an open position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] FIG. 2B illustrates a top view of a divider in a semi-open position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 2C illustrates a top view of a divider in a semi-closed position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 2D illustrates a top view of a divider in a closed position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a divider within a portion of a bottle in a closed position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 3B illustrates a perspective view of a divider within a portion of a bottle in an open position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] FIG. 4A illustrates a top view of a divider in a closed position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] FIG. 4B illustrates a top view of a divider in an open position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] FIG. 5A illustrates a section view of a divider in a locked position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] FIG. 5B illustrates a section view of a divider in an unlocked position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] FIG. 6A illustrates an exploded side view of a bottle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] FIG. 6B illustrates a side view of a bottle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] FIG. 6C illustrates a side orthogonal view of a cartridge mechanism for integration with a container according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] FIG. 6D illustrates a top orthogonal view of the bottom portion of a cartridge mechanism connected to the central ring according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] FIG. 6E illustrates a perspective exploded view of a cartridge mechanism for integration with a container according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] FIG. 7A illustrates an exploded side view of a bottle in a closed position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of a bottle in a closed position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] FIG. 7C illustrates a side view of a bottle in an open position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] FIG. 8A illustrates a side transparent view of a bottle in a closed position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] FIG. 8B illustrates a side transparent view of a bottle in a closed position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] FIG. 8C illustrates a side transparent view of a bottle in an open position according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a baby bottle pod according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] FIG. 10 illustrates a side perspective view of an open baby bottle pod according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of a baby bottle pod according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of an open baby bottle pod according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] FIG. 13 illustrates a side orthogonal view of a baby bottle pod attached to a baby bottle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] FIG. 14 illustrates side semi-transparent view of a baby bottle pod attached to a baby bottle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] FIG. 15A illustrates a side perspective view of a baby bottle pod prior to being opened according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] FIG. 15B illustrates a side perspective view of a baby bottle pod while being opened according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of the ring plug in use according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of an open baby bottle pod is use according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0095] FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of a baby bottle pod fitting ring according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] FIG. 19A illustrates a side orthogonal view of a ring plug according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] FIG. 19B illustrates a side orthogonal view of a ring plug according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0098] FIG. 19C illustrates a side orthogonal view of a ring plug according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] FIG. 19D illustrates a side orthogonal view of a ring plug according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0100] FIG. 19E illustrates a side orthogonal view of a ring plug according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0101] FIG. 19F illustrates a side orthogonal view of a ring plug according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] FIG. 20 illustrates a side orthogonal view of a ring plug according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0103] FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of a ring plug with an umbrella lip according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0104] FIG. 22A illustrates a bottom orthogonal view of a nip compartment according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] FIG. 22B illustrates a side perspective view of a nip compartment according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0106] FIG. 23 illustrates a side sectional view of a baby bottle pod with an umbrella lip and a nip housing protrusion according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0107] The present invention is generally directed to an attachment for baby bottles, powdered formula containers, and baby bottles for feeding an infant.

[0108] In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device for storing a solute including a first storage compartment, a second storage compartment, and a plug, wherein an upper portion of the second storage compartment is connected to a lower portion of the first storage compartment, wherein a lower portion of the second storage compartment is configured to removably attach to an upper portion of a liquid container, wherein the plug is configured to close and/or seal the first storage compartment by frictionally engaging an orifice defined in an upper portion of the first storage compartment, wherein the first storage compartment is configured to store a solute, wherein the second storage compartment is configured to house a baby bottle nipple extending upwardly from the upper portion of the liquid container, wherein the plug includes a ring and/or an umbrella lip, and wherein the second storage compartment is attached to the upper portion of the liquid container.

[0109] In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a device for preparing a baby bottle including a powdered formula storage compartment, a baby bottle nipple compartment, and a ring plug, wherein an upper portion of the baby bottle nipple compartment is connected to a lower portion of the powdered formula storage compartment, wherein a lower portion of the baby bottle nipple compartment is configured to removably attach to an upper portion of a baby bottle, wherein the ring plug is configured to close and/or seal the powdered formula storage compartment by frictionally engaging an orifice of an upper portion of the powdered formula storage compartment, wherein the powdered formula storage compartment is configured to store powdered formula, wherein the baby bottle nipple compartment includes a nipple housing protrusion extending downwardly from a bottom surface of the baby bottle nipple compartment and configured to compress and erect the baby bottle nipple, and wherein the ring plug includes an umbrella lip.

[0110] In yet another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a system for storing a solute includes a first storage compartment, a second storage compartment, a liquid container, and a plug, wherein an upper portion of the second storage compartment is connected to a lower portion of the first storage compartment, wherein a lower portion of the second storage compartment is configured to removably attach to an upper portion of the liquid container, wherein the plug is configured to close and/or seal the first storage compartment by frictionally engaging an orifice defined in an upper portion of the first storage compartment, wherein the first storage compartment is configured to store a solute, wherein the second storage compartment is configured to house a baby bottle nipple extending upwardly from the upper portion of the liquid container, where the plug includes a ring and/or an umbrella lip, and wherein the second storage compartment is operable to compress the baby bottle nipple when the second storage compartment is attached to the upper portion of the liquid container.

[0111] None of the prior art discloses a powdered formula container operable to function as a cap, storage container, and dispenser with a plunger seal ring top and a nip housing bottom. Additionally, none of the prior art discloses a cartridge system that allows a user to prefill and pack multiple cartridges with feeding powder and use cartridges in a single bottle along with an easy-to-use twist and mix design allowing for easy mixing of the formula ingredients. Advantageously, this allows for a user to pack fewer supplies than with prior art apparatuses that require a separate bottle to be packed for each meal the baby needs to be fed. Instead, the cartridge system only requires one receptacle to be packed that is compatible with multiple prefilled cartridges.

[0112] Some animals come into this world more self-sufficient than others. As an example, baby sea turtles are born with the ability to dig their way to the beach's surface and run a gauntlet of dangers on their way to the seashore. Additionally, giraffes survive a two-meter fall upon their birth and are still able to stand, feed, and walk within hours of leaving the womb. In contrast, the human baby is absolutely helpless when they are born, so much so that human babies cannot even lift their own heads without assistance for the first two months of life.

[0113] The intense care required by human babies has created a large market for products that aid and ease the child caring process. Among the most prominent and care intense stages of a child's development is their first year of age. During a child's first year of age, they require liquid foods in the form of a mother's breast milk or baby formula. While breastfeeding is the traditional method of feeding, bottle feeding is a convenient alternative and even sometimes required for women who cannot breastfeed.

[0114] As a result, the baby bottle industry is massive and increasing yearly. The baby bottle industry had an estimated market size of 3.29 billion dollars in 2021. This is further explained by the desire to aid and ease the child feeding process due to the straining task of balancing parenthood with daily life. Additionally, there is another level of complexity introduced by formula feeding in that powdered formula needs to be measured precisely and mixed carefully with warm water. These complications are due to the fact that babies require a precise nutritional diet and improper preparation sometimes causes the proteins and fats in the baby formula to separate or the powder to clump. Therefore, baby powder formula must be stored separately from the liquid to which it is mixed, which requires parents and caregivers to carry containers to store both the powdered formula and the liquid.

[0115] Furthermore, convenience is highly valued in the baby bottle industry and caregiver market. Convenience is highly valued because of the time-consuming nature of caring for babies. As a result, any product that eases, simplifies, or reduces the complexity of child care is heavily sought after, so much so, that a product that even reduce the number of separate components or simplifies the travel aspect of a product is of great value to caregivers.

[0116] Factors that increase the convenience of child care include: products that reduce the number of separate parts; products that are small in size or compressible; products that are able to be handled with a single hand; and products that are able to be prepared quickly and easily. Therefore, there is a need to address these factors and further refine the convenience of baby bottle feeding.

[0117] Formula Mixing and Feeding Assembly Reloadable by Cartridge

[0118] In the present disclosure, the term open refers to the state of the bottle when fluids and solids smaller than the at least one hole in the divider are operable to pass freely between the two body portions. The term closed refers to the state of the bottle when fluids and solids smaller than the at least one slot in the divider are not operable to pass freely between the two body portions. The term divider is operable to include both the upper divider and a lower divider in certain embodiment or just a single layer divider operable to open and close in other embodiments.

[0119] Referring now to the drawings in general, the illustrations are for the purpose of describing one or more preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention thereto.

[0120] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of one embodiment of a baby bottle with easy mix access. The bottle 10 includes an upper body portion 24, a lower body portion 26, a threaded nipple collar 22, a nipple 20, and a divider 30. In one embodiment, the divider 30 is operable to be mechanically adjusted from an open position to a closed position to allow or prevent substances from the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26 from being exchanged between these portions. In one embodiment the divider is operable to be moved between an open and a closed position by twisting/rotating the upper body portion 24 with respect to the lower body portion 26, or vice versa. In one embodiment, the divider implements an iris diaphragm for the opening and closing mechanism of the divider to allow substances held in the upper body portion 24 and the lower body portion 26 to mix or be separated based on the position, as shown in FIG. 2. Details regarding fully closing iris diagrams are operable to be found in U.S. Pat. No. 3,836,234 which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0121] Preferably, the fully closing iris mechanism creates a watertight and/or airtight barrier between the upper body portion 24 and the lower body portion 26 when in a fully closed position to prevent a liquid operable to be contained in the upper body portion 24 from moving into the lower body portion 26. In one embodiment, this characteristic is operable to be achieved by applying a coating to the blades of the iris mechanism and/or forming the blades from hydrophobic materials, such as polyvinylchloride, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinylidene fluoride, and/or carbon nanotubes. Alternatively or additionally, the iris mechanism is doubled and stacked one atop the other to further prevent liquid held in the upper body portion 24 from entering the lower body potion 26.

[0122] FIGS. 2A-D illustrate multiple phases of an iris diaphragm opening and closing. FIG. 2A illustrates the iris diaphragm acting as the divider 30 in a fully open position. While the iris diaphragm is in this fully open position, substances held in the upper body portion 24 of the bottle freely flow downward and enter the bottom body portion. FIG. 2B and FIG. 2C illustrate phases wherein the iris diaphragm is in the process of closing. In such states. the iris blades of the iris mechanism pivot outward, overlapping to cover the area of the opening in the iris mechanism. FIG. 2D illustrates the fully closed position of the iris diaphragm. In this position, the hole in the center of the mechanism is completely covered by the blades of the diaphragm, preventing substances held in the upper body portion 24 from entering the lower body portion 26.

[0123] The iris diaphragm is operable to be manipulated by twisting the upper body portion 24 and/or the lower body portion 26 of the bottle. The iris mechanism is operable to transfer this rotational energy supplied by the twisting of the body portion with which it is connected into energy to pivot the flaps of the iris diaphragm into the open position or the closed position.

[0124] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B illustrate an alternative embodiment of the bottle. In such embodiments, an upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26 each include an upper divider 34 and a lower divider 36, respectively, that divides where the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26 meet. Both the upper divider 34 and the lower divider 36 include at least one slot 72. Preferably, both the upper divider 34 and lower divider 36 slots 72 are the same in size and number. In the center of the upper divider 34 and lower divider 36, an axle 32 connects the upper divider 34 and the lower divider 36 together while allowing each to rotate with respect to the opposing divider around a similar axis. By doing so, the two dividers are operable to be rotated and positioned in a way that aligns the slots 72 of the upper divider 34 and the lower divider 36, allowing substances held in the upper body portion 24 to freely flow down into the lower body portion 36. In a preferred embodiment, at least one O-ring and/or rubber gasket 62 is included in the bottle between the two dividers and/or on an exterior circumference of the dividers. Preferably, the at least one O-ring and/or rubber gasket 62 allows the two dividers to slide with low friction while also preventing any liquids from escaping the two dividers. In one embodiment, the at least one rubber gasket and/or O-ring is doubled to further prevent leakages. In a further embodiment, the manufactured seams of the bottle where material meets and is affixed together are doubled to further prevent leakages.

[0125] In a preferred embodiment, the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26 are permanently or non-permanently affixed to the upper divider 34 and lower divider 36 respectively. In this embodiment, the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26 rotate along with the dividers about the axle 32. Advantageously, this allows for rotation to occur following a twisting motion being received along any part of the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26. In a preferred embodiment, the upper body portion is twisted clockwise with respect to the lower body portion to place the bottle in the closed position while it is twisted in the counterclockwise position with respect to the lower body portion to place the bottle in the open position, however the opposite configuration is operable to be implemented in some embodiments. Methods of affixing the respective body portions and dividers include, but are not limited to, mechanical, chemical, plastic welding, etc. In one embodiment, the body portions and dividers including the slots 72 are formed unitarily as a singular unit, i.e., the upper body portion 24 and the upper divider 34 are formed as a single unit and the lower body portion 26 and the lower divider 36 are formed as a single unit. In one embodiment, the dividers and body portions are threaded in a way that one is operable to receive the other. Advantageously, this allows for the two pieces to be separated and washed easily. In a preferred embodiment, the divider is its own unitary unit separate from the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26. In this embodiment, the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26 are operable to be threaded and received by the divider. This embodiment is advantageous as it allows for the bottle to easily be taken apart and washed after user.

[0126] In one embodiment, the outer walls of the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26 include at least one indicator 28 operable to convey whether the bottle is in an open or closed state. In one embodiment, the indicator 28 is a marking on the upper body portion 24 and a marking on the lower body portion 26 that aligns when the upper slots 72 in the upper divider 34 and lower slots 72 in the lower divider 36 are aligned. However, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that a number of indications are operable to indicate that the bottle is in the open or closed position.

[0127] Preferably, mechanical mechanisms are put into place that prevent the upper body potion and lower body portion 26 from rotating beyond a certain point about the axle 32. In one embodiment, a pin and groove mechanism is implemented between the upper divider 34 and lower divider 36 that mechanically prevents the rotation of the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26 past a certain point. In alternative embodiments where the divider is a unitary assembly, a mechanical stop is operable to be included in the form of a pin and groove mechanism or an alternative mechanism known in the art.

[0128] Further, the alignment of the upper and lower dividers while in the open and closed positions are illustrated in FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B. FIG. 4A illustrates the dividers in a closed position prior to rotation with the slots 72 in the upper divider 34 and the slots 72 in the lower divider 36 nonaligned. FIG. 4B illustrates the open position following rotation with the slots 72 in the upper divider 34 and the slots 72 in the lower divider 36 aligned such that fluid and solids are operable to be exchanged between the upper body portion and the lower body portion.

[0129] Preferably, this embodiment further includes a mechanism to hold the upper body portion 24 and lower body portion 26 in either the open or closed position. In one embodiment, this mechanism includes implanted magnets in the upper divider 34 and the lower divider 36 so the magnets align when the bottle is in the open position and the lower position and hold the upper divider 34 and the lower divider 36 in place. Advantageously, implementing magnetism to lock and unlock the bottle includes significantly fewer moving parts, decreasing the chance of mechanical failure. In an alternative embodiment, a button or lock switch is operable to be included to lock and unlock the rotation of the upper and lower portion. In one embodiment, pressing the button and/or lock switch is operable to compress a spring mechanism located in the divider. When the spring mechanism is compressed, a pin is released from a locking mechanism and the upper and lower halves of the divider are operable to spin freely until the button or lock switch are disengaged and the spring mechanism extends to allow the pin to return to the locked position.

[0130] FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate one embodiment of the divider of the present invention. The divider is constructed of a top half 34 and a bottom half 36 connected by and axle 32 about which each half is operable to spin. In FIG. 5A, the top half 34 and bottom half 36 are locked into place with respect to one another by a spring mechanism 39 that prevents rotation. Further included in the divider is a button 38 operable to be pressed to compress the spring mechanism. When the spring mechanism 39 is compressed, the end of the button 38 aligns with the interface of the top half 34 and the bottom half 36, allowing the two halves to rotate with respect to one another about the axle 32, as illustrated in FIG. 5B. In one embodiment, a more or less spring mechanisms are operable to be included to allow the divider to be locked in the open configuration wherein slots in the top half and bottom half aligned, and a closed configuration wherein slots in the top half and bottom half are not aligned. Preferably, the inner face of the top half 35 and the inner face of the bottom half 37 are operable to include threading operably to receive other components of the bottle. Preferably, one or more gaskets and/or O-rings are operable to be included at the ends of threading and/or between the top half 34 and bottom half 36 of the divider 30.

[0131] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate one embodiment of a bottle incorporating a cartridge system of the present invention. In this embodiment, the cartridge system is operable to be received by the divider 30 by being screwed into the bottom side of the divider 30. Preferably, the divider 30 is the divider of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. The top body portion 24 is operable to be screwed into the top half of the divider 30 with threading at the bottom of the top body portion 48. FIG. 6B shows the assembled version of one embodiment of the bottle of FIG. 6A.

[0132] FIG. 6C illustrates a side orthogonal view of a cartridge mechanism for integration with a container according to one embodiment of the present invention. The cartridge mechanism includes a central ring 80 which is threaded on the interior of the ring, with the bottom half of the ring being tapered for connection to the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84. The central ring 80 provides for the top portion of the cartridge mechanism 82 to be joined with a bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84.

[0133] FIG. 6D illustrates a top orthogonal view of the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 inserted into the central ring 80. The bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 includes slots 72 which are operable to provide for a solid such as a powder or a liquid included in the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 to mix with liquid provided to and through the top portion of the cartridge mechanism via a container when the slots 72 are not closed off by a corresponding mechanism in the top portion of the cartridge mechanism. The top portion of the cartridge mechanism preferably includes corresponding slots which are operable to align with the slots 72 of the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 to create the openings between the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 and the top portion of the cartridge mechanism and the remainder of the container. When the slots 72 of the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 are not aligned with the corresponding slots of the top portion of the cartridge mechanism and are in a position where a solid portion of the top portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 covers the slots 72 of the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84, then no fluid or solid is operable to be transferred between the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 to the top portion of the cartridge mechanism or to a container connected to the top portion of the cartridge mechanism. In another embodiment, a separate seal is provided between the top of the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism and the bottom of the top portion of the cartridge mechanism. The seal is preferably constructed of rubber or silicone, and includes identical or substantially similar holes such that that the seal is operable to be rotated along with the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 or the top portion of the cartridge mechanism such that the slots 72 of the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism line up with the holes in the seal and the holes or slots in the top portion of the cartridge mechanism. In another embodiment, more than one seal with holes or slots is provided, such as two seals with holes or slots, one which is operable to be placed on the top of the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism and another which is operable to be placed on the bottom of the top portion of the cartridge mechanism.

[0134] FIG. 6E illustrates a perspective exploded view of a cartridge mechanism for integration with a container according to one embodiment of the present invention. The bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 is operable to engage with the central ring 80 via friction-based locking. Alternatively, the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 is operable to engage with the central ring 80 via internal threading of the central ring 80 and an external threaded portion on the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84. In one embodiment, an O-ring or a gasket is operable to provide a seal between the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism and the central ring 80. The central ring 80 is operable to engage with the top portion of the cartridge mechanism 82 via internal threading of the central ring 80 and the external threaded portion 92 of the top portion of the cartridge mechanism 82. The top portion of the cartridge mechanism 82 is operable to engage with a bottom of a container such as a bottle or thermos via friction-based locking to provide a connection of the cartridge mechanism to the container. The top portion of the cartridge mechanism 82 includes a top cylindrical portion 90 with a diameter smaller than the diameter of the threaded portion 92 of the top portion of the cartridge mechanism 82. The top cylindrical portion 90 also has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the bottom portion of the container which the top cylindrical portion 90 is operable to engage with. In one embodiment, the top cylindrical potion 90 and/or the container include tabs which enable the top cylindrical portion 90 to lock into the container. The threaded portion 92 and the top cylindrical portion 90 are integrally formed out of a material such as plastic in one embodiment. The bottom surface of the threaded portion 92 includes a flat or substantially flat surface with holes or slots which match or substantially match the slots 72 on the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84. The term “match” and “substantially match” indicate that the holes or slots on the bottom surface of the threaded portion 92 are identical or substantially identical to the slots 72 on the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84.

[0135] The bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 includes a bottom cylindrical portion 86 which includes a cylindrical lid 88 with a top flat or substantially flat portion with slots 72 which match or substantially match the holes or slots of the flat or substantially flat surface bottom surface of the threaded portion 92 of the top portion of the cartridge mechanism 82. The lower portion of the cylindrical lid 88 with the top flat or substantially flat portion is operable to be inserted into the bottom cylindrical portion 86 to contain a solid such as a powder or a liquid within the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84. The cylindrical lid 88 with the top flat or substantially flat portion is preferably removably attached to the bottom cylindrical portion 86. Advantageously, this provides for the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 to be used as a cartridge containing a solid or liquid for mixing with liquid from a container, with the liquid from the container mixing with the solid or liquid in the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 through the cartridge mechanism, and for the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 to be subsequently reloaded with a solid or a liquid for reuse. In one embodiment, the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 includes physical components which prevent the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 from being turned beyond a certain point when engaged with the central ring 80. In other words, the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 is operable to be in a fully open position where the slots 72 of the cylindrical lid 88 align with holes in the seal and the holes or slots in the top portion of the cartridge mechanism 82, a fully closed position where the slots 72 of the cylindrical lid 88 do not align with holes in the seal and the holes or slots in the top portion of the cartridge mechanism 82 and the solid portion of the seal and/or the solid portion of the top portion of the cartridge mechanism block a liquid from entering the slots 72 of the cylindrical lid 88, and positions in between the open and closed positions, such as partially open or partially closed positions. By preventing the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism 84 from rotating beyond a certain point within the central ring 80, the present invention provides for ease of use and prevents unnecessary stress on components of the invention by preventing rotation beyond a closed position, preventing rotation beyond an open position, and preventing rotation too far in one direction.

[0136] Advantageously, the cartridge mechanism shown in FIGS. 6C-6E is watertight when assembled, and provides a watertight cartridge container when the cartridge mechanism is connected to a container such as a bottle or a thermos. By providing a watertight assembly, the present invention provides for easy mixing of solids such as powders, liquids, or gels contained in the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism with a liquid provided via the container. The bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism is rotated to provide fluid access between the liquid from the container and the solid, liquid, or gel in the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism via the holes or slots included in the components of the cartridge mechanism which become aligned when the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism is rotated. Physical agitation such as shaking encourages mixing of the solid, liquid, or gel originally contained in the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism with the liquid from the container, or dissolution of the solid originally contained in the bottom portion of the cartridge mechanism in the liquid provided via the container, in one embodiment.

[0137] FIGS. 7A-7C illustrate a further embodiment of the cartridge system of the present invention. Preferably, the cartridge 40 of the cartridge system is operable be received by the lower body portion 26 of the bottle 10. In one embodiment, this is achieved through screwing the cartridge into the bottom of the lower body portion 26. Alternatively, a different insertion mechanism is operable to be implemented such as a spring-loaded “push-push” mechanism. Advantageously, this allows for cartridges 40 holding ingredients to be mixed in the bottle to be inserted into the bottom of the bottle, as illustrated in FIG. 7B, before the bottle is changed to the open position and substances from the top allowed to enter the lower body portion 26, as illustrated in FIG. 7C. Preferably, the seal produced from screwing in the cartridge into the lower body portion 26 is watertight.

[0138] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate a side transparent view of a bottle operable to receive a cartridge. The cartridge is operable to contain ingredients needed in a formulation to be formed in the bottle. The cartridge is operable to be screwed into the lower body portion 26 of the bottle until the upper lip of the cartridge meets a stop ring 60 located on the inner wall of the lower body portion 26. Advantageously, the stop ring 60 prevents the cartridge from being over screwed into the bottom of the lower body portion 26. In certain embodiments, a watertight O-ring and/or rubber gasket 62 is operable to be included between the stop ring 60 and the wall of the cartridge to prevent leakage. The upper body portion 24 is operable to contain at least one ingredient 50 of the final formulation. This part of the bottle is operable to be filled by removing the nipple 20 and nipple collar 22 from the upper body portion 24 while the bottle is in the closed position and therefore the ingredient is not operable to enter the lower body portion 26. Advantageously, this allows for the upper body portion 24 to be filled with at least one ingredient before the cartridge is inserted, without the bottle leaking from the lower body portion 26.

[0139] FIG. 8B illustrates the bottle following the cartridge being screwed into the lower body portion 26 before the slots 72 are not aligned (i.e. the bottle is in the closed position). Advantageously, the bottle is operable to keep the ingredients separated until action is taken to mix the ingredients, thereby increasing the convenience of use of the present application. In other words, a single action of twisting the upper body portion 24 or the lower body portion 26 is all that is required to mix the ingredients from the upper body portion 24 with the lower body portion 26 once the upper body portion, lower body portion, and cartridge are joined. Once the cartridge 40 is fully screwed into the lower body portion 26, the upper body portion 24 and/or the lower body portion 26 are operable to be twisted so that the divider 30 switches to the open position. Fluids and solids with particle sizes smaller than the width of the opening are then operable to fall into the lower body portion 26 to be mixed with the ingredient 52 for the formulation held in the cartridge as shown in FIG. 8C.

[0140] Further, the bottle of the present invention is operable to be constructed and/or manufactured from a variety of materials. The nipple is operable to be constructed from a variety of materials including, but not limited to, silicon, latex, etc. The components making up the body of the bottle (including the upper and lower body portion, threaded nipple collar, and cartridges) are operable to be constructed from a variety of materials including, but not limited to, plastics, metals, metal alloys, glass, ceramic, etc. The divider and/or dividers are operable to be constructed from preferably from plastics and/or metals. In a preferred embodiment, the upper body portion and lower body portions are constructed of glass. In one embodiment, components of the bottle is constructed from bio-based materials such as, but not limited to, bio-based plastics. In an alternative embodiment, some components of the bottle are constructed from paper.

[0141] Additionally, other features known in the art to be advantageous to bottles that do not inhibit the nature of the divider are operable to be included in the present invention. This includes, but is not limited to, an anti-colic lid, modifications to increase the grip of the bottle such as a silicon coating and/or increasing the roughness of the exterior of the bottle to increase the coefficient of static and/or kinetic friction, at least one lid to be placed over the nipple of the bottle, etc. In one advantageous embodiment, a grip-enhancing texture and/or block is added to the exterior of the upper body portion. This allows a user to rotate to upper body portion with their thumb while holding the lower body portion, allowing for mixing of the ingredients in the upper body portion and the lower body portion using only one hand. In one embodiment, the present invention further includes a straw that is operable to be places on the inside of the bottle and attached to the cap. In a preferred embodiment, volumetric measurements are displayed on the side of the bottle to indicate the volume of liquid included in the bottle. Further modifications include, but are not limited to, handles on the side of the bottle so it is easier for a user to hold.

[0142] While embodiments of the present disclosure detail applications of the present invention in the mixing of baby formula, this is not meant to limit the scope of the invention but to instead describe one embodiment. Alternative embodiments of the invention are operable to be adapted for other applications including, but not limited to, nutritional supplement mixer bottles and mixers wherein other combinations of liquids and solids are operable to be combined. As a non-limiting example, in one embodiment, the bottle is operable to be user to mix powdered creamer with coffee.

[0143] Pod

[0144] The baby bottle pod of the present invention solves the problems of the prior art. The baby bottle pod (“pod”) is attachable to conventional baby bottles and functions as a cap for a baby bottle teat or “nip,” a container for powdered formula, and a dispenser for powdered formula. Furthermore, when engaged with the baby bottle, the pod compresses the baby bottle nip to optimize storage space. Additionally, the pod includes a ring plunger that functions as a plug or lid to the powdered storage component and includes a ring as the handle, such that it is able to be held on the finger during preparation. Moreover, the pod has a specific powdered storage container shape and size to facilitate dispensing. Lastly, the pod includes a nip housing depression that facilitates compressing the nip and erecting the nip for use.

[0145] As a result, the pod optimizes the baby bottle feeding experience by providing a compact, easy to use, and simple baby bottle attachment. The pod allows for compact travel, minimal parts, and a smooth formula mixing protocol that is of great benefit to parents and caregivers.

[0146] Referring again to the drawings in general, the illustrations are for the purpose of describing one or more preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention thereto.

[0147] FIG. 9 illustrates a side perspective view of a baby bottle pod 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 9 includes a baby bottle pod 100, a ring plug 102, a formula compartment 104, and a nip compartment 106. In one embodiment, the baby bottle pod 100 is configured to include a nip compartment 106 attached below a formula compartment 104 with a ring plug 102 removably attached to the top of the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106 and formula compartment 104 are separated by a thin layer (e.g., a boundary of polymer material, a boundary of metal material, etc.). In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106 and the formula compartment 104 are not integrally formed and are connected through one or more attachment methods known in art (e.g., adhesive, bolts, screws, welding, heat fusion, etc.). In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106, the formula compartment 104, and the boundary between the nip compartment 106 and the formula compartment 104 are integrally formed.

[0148] In one embodiment, the baby bottle pod 100 (“pod” or “device”) is constructed of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or other suitable plastic known in the art. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is constructed of metal, graphite, carbon fiber or other commonly used material for 3D printing. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is constructed of silicon, ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM), neoprene, or other suitable synthetic rubber known in the art. In one embodiment, the pod is constructed of a single, a specific, or a plurality of suitable materials. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is manufactured using extrusion blow molding, injection blow molding, and/or injection stretch molding process. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is manufactured by injecting molten material into a mold (i.e., injection molding).

[0149] In one embodiment, the pod 100 has a height of approximately 72 mm, a base diameter of approximately 63 mm, and an orifice diameter of approximately 32 mm. In one embodiment, the pod 100 has a height of approximately 62 mm, a base diameter of approximately 64 mm, and an orifice diameter of approximately 25 mm. In one embodiment, the pod 100 has a height of approximately 70 mm, a base diameter of approximately 70 mm, and an orifice diameter of approximately 26 mm. In one embodiment, the pod 100 has a height, base diameter, and orifice diameter that is compatible with any traditional baby bottle. Therefore, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the dimensions of the baby bottle or the pod 100 according to the present invention are not intended to be limiting. In one embodiment, the base diameter of the pod 100 is constructed to be larger or smaller to accommodate more formula powder or have a more compact figure.

[0150] In the preferred embodiment, the formula compartment 104 is configured to store powdered baby powder, although one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the formula compartment 104 is operable to be configured to store a wide variety of substances. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 is operable to store a non-dissolvable solid, a semi-dissolvable solid, a solute, a solvent, and/or a liquid. In the preferred embodiment, the pod 100 is removably attached to a baby bottle 120 (as seen in FIG. 13), although one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the pod 100 is operable to be configured to be removably attached to a wide variety of containers. In one embodiment, the baby bottle 120, upon which the pod 100 attaches, is not a baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is removably attachable to a container operable to store a liquid, a solid, a solvent, and/or any other material suitable for mixing. As a nonlimiting example, the pod 100 is configured to store cereal and be removably attached to a container configured to store milk. In this example the cereal and the milk are mixed to make a heterogeneous mixture, yet the cereal does not dissolve in the milk. As another nonlimiting example, the pod 100 is configured to store protein powder and removably attached to a water bottle. In this example the protein powder and the water are mixed and the protein powder dissolves in the water to make a homogeneous mixture. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize the benefit of the pod 100, to provide a cap and/or lid to a container that conveniently stores two compounds that may be mixed at a later time. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is not configured to function as an aid to preparing a baby bottle for feeding. In the preferred embodiment, the pod 100 is configured to function as an aid to preparing a baby bottle for feeding. Lastly, while the preferred embodiment of the present invention involves a container to store a solute removably attached to a container to store a solvent, the present disclosure is not limited to such an implementation and is operable to store a substance that does not dissolve into another substance.

[0151] FIG. 10 illustrates a side perspective view of an open baby bottle pod 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 10 includes a baby bottle pod 100, a formula compartment 104, a nip compartment 106, and a pod orifice 108. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 is a closed space except for the pod orifice 108, which is located at the top of the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, when the ring plug 102 is removed, the pod orifice 108 is configured to allow powdered formula to pass from the formula compartment 104 through the opening of a baby bottle and into a baby bottle by turning the pod 100 upside down and allowing gravity and agitation to empty the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, the pod orifice 108 has a diameter to match the diameter of the opening to a baby bottle. In one embodiment, the pod orifice 108 has a smaller diameter than the opening to a baby bottle. In one embodiment, the pod orifice 108 has a larger diameter than the opening of a baby bottle.

[0152] FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a baby bottle pod 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 11 includes a baby bottle pod 100, a ring plug 102, a formula compartment 104, and a nip compartment 106.

[0153] In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106 is partially enclosed by the boundary between the formula compartment 104 and the nip compartment 106 and at least one side wall, but includes an open bottom end. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 includes a flat closed bottom (i.e., the boundary between the formula compartment 104 and the nip compartment 106), sloping side walls, and a ring plug 102 sealing the top. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 includes smooth walls that are concave from the interior perspective of the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, the interior walls of the formula compartment 104 form smooth corners of the interior of the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, the interior walls of the formula compartment 104 do not include any hard corners, so as to facilitate dispensing of powdered formula and prevent clumping and sticking of powdered formula within the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 includes interior concave walls, that are upward and increasingly concave from the interior perspective of the formula compartment's 104 base to its top (i.e., the location of the ring plug 102). In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 includes a bottom surface that is approximately flat, while having smooth interior concave corners (i.e., where the walls bend inwards to the space of the formula compartment 104) that lead to smooth, rounded side walls from the interior perspective of the bottom center of the formula compartment 104 up to the ring plug 102 of the pod 100. In one embodiment, the interior concave walls are of an upward slope, such that when the pod 100 is turned upside down powdered formula slides down the interior concave walls 100 and out of the formula compartment and into the baby bottle. In one embodiment, the interior concave walls 100 are constructed of polytetrafluoroethylene (e.g., TEFLON, FLUON, etc.) and/or another non-stick material to facilitate fully emptying the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, the pod 100 has a width of approximately 67 millimeters. In one embodiment, the pod orifice 108 has a width of approximately 32 millimeters. In one embodiment, the pod 100 has a height of approximately 64 millimeters. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 has a height of approximately 34 millimeters. In one embodiment the nip compartment 106 has a height of approximately 25 millimeters.

[0154] FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an open baby bottle pod 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 display nonlimiting examples of how the shape, size, and dimensions of the pod are able to be altered to fit different sized baby bottles, baby bottle nips, and hold varying amounts of powdered formula.

[0155] Specifically, FIG. 12 illustrates a baby bottle pod 100, a formula compartment 104, a nip compartment 106, and a pod orifice 108. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 includes a closed flat surface bottom, sloping side walls, and a pod orifice 108 at the top. In one embodiment, the pod orifice 108 is a circular shaped opening to the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, the pod orifice 108 facilitates dispensing of powdered formula into a baby bottle. In one embodiment, the orifice 108 is of a size and shape to accommodate a corresponding ring plug 102. In one embodiment, the pod orifice 108 is of a smaller, yet complimentary size and shape to a ring plug 102, such that the ring plug 102 is operable to sealingly engage the pod orifice 108. In one embodiment, once the ring plug 102 engages the pod orifice 108, a water tight, air tight, and/or impervious seal connection results.

[0156] FIG. 13 illustrates a side perspective view of a baby bottle pod 100 attached to a baby bottle 120 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is of a complimentary size and shape to fit on top of a conventional baby bottle. In one embodiment, the pod 100 acts as a cap to the nip of a baby bottle. Specifically, FIG. 13 includes a baby bottle pod 100, a ring plug 102, a formula compartment 104, a nip compartment 106, a baby bottle pod fitting ring 112 or “pod fitting ring 112,” and a baby bottle 120.

[0157] In one embodiment, the pod 100 includes a pod fitting ring 112 (“or pod fitting”) that facilitates a detachable connection between the pod 100 and the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 facilitates attachment of the pod 100 to any sized baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod 100 includes a pod fitting ring 112 proximate to the bottom of the pod 100. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is a ring-shaped component that sits around the top of a baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is of a size and shape to detachably connect to the top of a baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is tapered, such that the top diameter of the pod fitting ring 112 is larger than the bottom diameter of the pod fitting ring 112. In one embodiment, the baby bottle pod fitting ring 112 is tapered such that the top diameter of the baby bottle pod fitting is smaller than the bottom diameter of the baby bottle pod fitting. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is a short cylinder with a uniform center diameter about its length. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is attachable to the top of a baby bottle 120 by sliding the pod fitting ring 112 down the neck of the baby bottle 120 until it frictionally engages an outer surface of a rim of the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is tightly attached to the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is permanently affixed proximately to the top of a baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is affixed to the peak of the baby bottle 120 through an adhesive, welding, screws, bolts, and/or any other conventional means of attachment known in the art.

[0158] In one embodiment, the pod 100 does not include a pod fitting ring 112. The pod 100 is configured to have a size and shape compatible with the neck of the baby bottle 120, such that it is placed directly onto the baby bottle 120 and frictionally engages with the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is detachably coupled to a baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod 100 matingly engages a baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is of a size and shape complimentary to a baby bottle 120, such that the baby bottle 120 and the pod 100 frictionally engage each other.

[0159] FIG. 14 illustrates side semi-transparent view of a baby bottle pod 100 attached to a baby bottle 120 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 illustrates a transparent formula compartment 104 to illustrate its storage capabilities. FIG. 14 illustrates a transparent nip compartment 106 to illustrate how the baby bottle nip 124 interacts with and fits within the nip compartment 106 of the pod 100. Specifically, FIG. 14 includes a baby bottle pod 100, a ring plug 102, a formula compartment 104, powder formula 122, a nip compartment 106, a baby bottle nip 124, a pod fitting ring 112, and a baby bottle 120.

[0160] In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106 is operable to function as a cap to the baby bottle 120, such that the baby bottle nip 124 is not exposed to the environment of the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106 is of a shorter height than the baby bottle nip 124, such that upon attachment of the pod 100 to the baby bottle 120 the baby bottle nip 124 is compressed, as illustrated in FIG. 14. In one embodiment, the baby bottle nip 124 is compressed evenly downward so that the nip is not folded onto one side or another upon attachment of the nip compartment 106. Typically, baby bottle nips are formed from a flexible, deformable material, allowing the nip 124 to deform, compress, and/or deflect when attached to the pod 100. In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106 is of the same length of the baby bottle nip 124, such that upon attachment of the pod 100 to the baby bottle 120, the baby bottle nip 124 remains in an erect position. In one embodiment, the internal side walls of the nip compartment 106 are coated in or formed from an antibacterial and/or antiviral material.

[0161] In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 is operable to contain and store powder formula 122. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 includes a single storage compartment, as illustrated in FIG. 14. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 includes separate storage compartments, such that powder formula 122 is stored in different closed spaces within the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 is coated in or formed from an antibacterial, antimicrobial and/or antiviral material. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 is constructed of glass, silicone, polycarbonate, polypropylene, Bisphenol A (BPA) free plastic, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyethylene vinyl acetate, and/or borosilicate glass. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 and ring plug 102 together form an air tight, water tight, impermeable, and/or pressure tight storage compartment.

[0162] In one embodiment, the pod 100 is removable from the baby bottle 120 at the baby bottle pod fitting ring 112 portion through a snap on and snap off motion, which exposes the baby bottle nip 124. In one embodiment, the lid of the baby bottle 120 is able to be removed while the pod 100 is still attached. Because the fitting ring 112 is attached to the lid, both the pod 100 and the lid below the pod fitting ring 112 are removed through a twisting motion, which exposes the opening to the baby bottle 120 and retains the baby bottle nip 124 in the nip compartment 106. In one embodiment, upon twist removal of the pod 100, both the baby bottle nip 124 and a baby bottle aerator are removed from the baby bottle 120.

[0163] FIG. 15A illustrates a side perspective view of a baby bottle pod 100 prior to being opened according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15B illustrates a side perspective view of a baby bottle pod 100 while being opened according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B illustrate the conventional use of the ring plug 102 and how it functions as a cork or lid to the pod 100. Specifically, FIGS. 15A and 15B includes a baby bottle pod 100, a ring plug 102, a formula compartment 104, a nip compartment 106, and a pod fitting 112. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 provides for a quick and easy opening and closing experience. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 has an upper ring portion that is of a shape and size to fit around a user's finger. In this embodiment, the ring plug 102 allows the user to operate the pod 100 without having to hold or displace the ring plug 102. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is operable to be comfortably held onto a user's finger. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is operable as the closing member to the formula compartment 104. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is operable to be placed onto the formula compartment 104, through the pod orifice 108.

[0164] In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is constructed of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or other suitable plastic known in the art. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is constructed of metal, graphite, carbon fiber or other commonly used material for 3D printing. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is constructed of silicon, ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber (EPDM), neoprene, or other suitable synthetic rubber known in the art. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is constructed of a single material or a plurality of suitable materials. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is constructed of glass, silicone, polycarbonate, polypropylene, Bisphenol A (BPA) free plastic, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyethylene vinyl acetate, and/or borosilicate glass.

[0165] In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 includes a lower cork portion, a middle base portion, and an upper ring portion. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is operable to engage the pod 100 by frictionally engaging the sides of the pod orifice 108, such that the upper ring portion is exposed and pointing upwards, the middle base portion is substantially flush with the top of the pod 100, and the lower cork portion is submerged within the formula compartment 104 and engaged with the sides of the pod orifice 108. The ring plug 102 is designed so that a user will push down on the upper ring portion to close the pod 100 or pull up on the upper ring portion to open the pod 100. In one embodiment, the lower cork portion is of a size, shape, and material to frictionally engage the formula compartment 104, such that powdered formula 122 remains within the formula compartment 104 regardless of the external position and environment of the pod 100 (i.e., when the pod is placed on its side, upside down, or subject to shaking). In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is operable to be removed from the pod 100 by a pulling motion. In one embodiment, the lower cork portion is threaded complementary to a threaded baby bottle pod orifice 108. In this embodiment, the ring plug 102 is operable to be removed from the pod 100 through a twisting motion, such that the ring plug 102 is removed from the pod 100 once the threads of the ring plug 102 and the threaded baby bottle pod orifice 108 are decoupled. In one embodiment, the friction applied between the ring plug 102 and the baby bottle pod orifice 108, upon connection, is of a degree that an adult is able to remove the ring plug with ease, while a child is not able to remove the ring plug with ease.

[0166] FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of the ring plug 102 in use according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 includes an upper handle portion in the shape of a ring. In this embodiment, the ring plug 102 is designed such that a finger is able to be slid inside the ring to hold the ring plug 102. In this embodiment, a user is able to avoid placing the ring plug down on a surface, which potentially causes contamination of the formula compartment 104 and the powdered formula 122 by holding the ring plug 102 on their figure instead. In effect, the ring plug 102 is designed to reduce to contact of germs and bacteria to the powdered formula 122.

[0167] FIG. 17 illustrates a side perspective view of an open baby bottle pod 100 in use according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 17 includes a baby bottle pod 100, a formula compartment 104, a nip compartment 106, a baby bottle fitting ring 112, and a baby bottle 120.

[0168] In one embodiment, the pod 100 is operable to function as a container and dispenser of powdered formula. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is removed with the baby bottle nip 124 by twisting the pod 100, twisting the baby bottle nip housing 126, and/or the baby bottle fitting ring 112, which exposes the opening to the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod 100 includes a pod orifice 108 that is operable as an opening to the pod for inputting and outputting powdered formula. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is operable to be attached and detached to a baby bottle 120. In the preferred embodiment, the pod 100 is operable to receive powdered formula in advance of intent to use, attach to the baby bottle 120 for convenience, detach from the baby bottle 120, remove the ring plug 102, and be turned upside down over the opening of the baby bottle 120, such that the powdered formula is moved by gravity and agitation into the baby bottle 120. Following this process, the baby bottle 120 is equipped with powdered formula. FIG. 17 illustrates the final step of this process, where the pod 100 is upside down and dispensing powdered formula into the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the orifice of the powdered formula compartment 104 has a smaller diameter than the opening to the baby bottle 120, in order to prevent spillage when preparing the baby bottle 120 for feeding.

[0169] FIG. 18 illustrates a side perspective view of a pod fitting ring 112 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 18 includes a pod fitting ring 112, a baby bottle nip 124, and a baby bottle nip housing 126.

[0170] In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 facilitates attachment of the pod 100 to baby bottles 120 without the need to manufacture the pod 100 to have dimensions complimentary to that of the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 functions as a one-size-fits-all medium for the pod 100.

[0171] In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 facilitates a frictional engagement between the pod 100 and the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is manufactured to frictionally engage the baby bottle 120 without a pod fitting ring 112. In one embodiment, the lower circumference of the nip compartment 106 is of a size and shape slightly smaller than the size and shape of the nip housing 126, which results in the pod 100 being frictionally engaged with the baby bottle 120 upon connection. In one embodiment, the internal circumference of the nip compartment 106 is of a size and shape smaller than the outer circumference of the pod fitting ring 112, which results in the pod 100 being frictionally engaged with the baby bottle 120 upon connection. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 acts as a stopper for the connection between the pod 100 and the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 facilitates a snap fitting between the pod 100 and the baby bottle 120.

[0172] In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is attached to the baby bottle nip housing 126 of the baby bottle 120, rather than to the lower section of the pod 100. In one embodiment, the pod 100 includes a pod fitting ring 112 attachable through any conventional means of attachment to a baby bottle nip housing 126 to facilitate snap on attachment of the pod 100 to the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 has an upper ring surface complimentary to the lower ring surface of the nip compartment 106, such that they are matingly attachable to one another in a snap-on fit motion. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is attached to the baby bottle nip housing 126 by an adhesive and is permanently affixed to the baby bottle nip housing 126. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is fictionally engaged with the baby bottle nip housing 126 by having a size, shape, and dimension complimentary with that of the baby bottle nip housing 126. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is removable from the baby bottle nip housing 126. In one embodiment, the pod fitting ring 112 is attached to the pod 100 and is operable to facilitate attachment of the pod 100 to the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the pod 100 is configured to attach to the baby bottle 120 without the use of the baby bottle pod fitting ring 112. In this embodiment, the pod 100 is configured to have dimensions complimentary to that of the baby bottle nip housing 126, such that the pod 100 is able to snap onto the baby bottle 120.

[0173] FIGS. 19A-F illustrate a variety of ring plugs 102 according to various embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is operable as a lid and/or plunger, such that a silicon seal is formed once the ring plug 102 is pressed into the pod orifice 108. In one embodiment, the formula compartment 104 is exposed once the ring plug 102 is pulled from the pod orifice 108. FIGS. 19A-F illustrate different embodiments of the ring plug 102. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 includes a lower section that is of a rectangular shape with a plurality of bulges, a cone shape with smooth edges where the tip of the cone is rounded and pointing downwards, a rectangular shape with a plurality of rings about its circumference, a cone shape with a plurality of rings about its circumference, a short rectangular shape with concave sides and protruding edges, a short cone shape with a long flat bottom, and/or any other suitable plunger shape known in the art. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is manufactured with an upper section that includes an aesthetically augmented design, rather than a simple ring design. As an example, the ring plug 102 includes an upper portion in the shape of a pacifier, in the shape of a football, and/or any aesthetically pleasing shape a user desires. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 is manufactured with an upper section that includes a different practical design other than a simple ring design. As an example, the ring plug 102 includes an upper portion in the shape of a shaft grip, hand grip, knob, hook, and/or any practically designed shape.

[0174] FIG. 20 illustrates a side perspective view of a ring plug 102 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 includes a ring receptacle 107. In one embodiment, the ring receptacle 107 is located near the edge of one end of the base of the ring plug 102. In one embodiment, the ring receptacle 107 includes an aperture of a shape and size to house a ring or handle for gripping the ring plug 102.

[0175] FIG. 21 illustrates a side perspective view of a ring plug 102 with an umbrella lip 105 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 includes an umbrella lip 105. In one embodiment, the umbrella lip 105 is operable to reduce spillage and/or leakage of the contents of the formula compartment. In one embodiment, the umbrella lip 105 is operable as an additional barrier between the formula compartment and the environment of the pod. In one embodiment, upon closing the formula compartment with the ring plug 102, the umbrella lip 105 rests overtop of and in contact with the pod orifice 108 (See FIG. 23). In one embodiment, the umbrella lip 105 is an additional appendage of the ring plug 102 located below the ring receptable 107 and above the lower cork portion. In one embodiment, the umbrella lip 105 is integrally formed with the ring plug 102. In one embodiment, the umbrella lip 105 is separately manufactured and attached to the ring plug through conventional methods of attachment (e.g., adhesive, bolts, screws, welding, heat fusion, etc.). In one embodiment, upon connection of the ring plug 102 to the pod, the umbrella lip 105 frictionally engages the upper portion of the formula compartment around and overtop of the pod orifice. In one embodiment, upon connection of the ring plug 102 to the pod, the umbrella lip 105 is flush with the upper portion of the formula compartment around and overtop of the pod orifice. In one embodiment, the umbrella lip 105 prevents contents of the formula compartment from escaping the formula compartment while the ring plug 102 is attached to the pod.

[0176] FIG. 22A illustrates a bottom orthogonal view of a nip compartment 106 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIG. 22A includes a nip compartment 106 and a nip housing depression 128 in approximately the center of the nip compartment 106. In one embodiment, the nip housing depression 128 is operable to grip and pull erect the baby bottle nip upon removal of the pod from the baby bottle 120. In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106 includes a nip housing depression 128, which is a shallow circular depression placed in the center of the roof of the nip compartment 106. In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106 is designed to be a shorter length than the length of the baby bottle nip 124, such that the baby bottle nip 124 is compressed when the pod 100 is placed on top of the baby bottle 120 (as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 23). In the embodiment where the nip compartment 106 includes a nip housing depression 128, the nip housing depression 128 is of a size and shape complimentary with the uppermost part of the baby bottle nip. In this embodiment, the nip housing depression 128 is operable to receive the top of the baby bottle nip, such that the baby bottle nip is lightly grasped (i.e., frictionally engaged) by the nip housing depression 128. In one embodiment, the nip housing depression 128 is operable to facilitate a uniform compression of the baby bottle nip, such that the nip is compressed symmetrically downward (i.e., as opposed to being folded to one side or another) by lightly grasping the baby bottle nip as it is compressed. In one embodiment, the nip housing depression 128 is operable to lightly grasp (i.e., frictionally engage) the baby bottle nip, such that upon removal of the pod from the baby bottle 120, the baby bottle nip is pulled upwards until the force is enough to release the baby bottle nip 124 from the nip housing depression 128, which leaves the baby bottle nip 124 erect and ready for use. In this embodiment, the nip housing depression 128 is operable to prevent the situation where the baby bottle nip remains compressed upon removal of the pod from the baby bottle.

[0177] FIG. 22B illustrates a side perspective view of a nip compartment 106 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the nip compartment 106 includes a nip housing protrusion 129. In this embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is similar to the nip housing depression 128 in that the protrusion is of a size and shape operable to lightly grasp (i.e., frictionally engage) the baby bottle nip, such that upon removal of the pod from the baby bottle, the baby bottle nip is pulled upwards until the baby bottle nip is released from the nip housing protrusion 129, which leaves the baby bottle nip erect and ready for use. In this embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is dissimilar to the nip housing depression 128 in that the protrusion projects from the center of the roof of the nip compartment 106 (i.e., extends outwards). In one embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is an umbrella shape. In one embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is a hollow half spherical shape, such that the upward facing portion includes a rounded roof with an open bottom. In one embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is of a size and shape to fit the tip of a baby bottle nip. In one embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is manufactured as a separate component and permanently affixed to the center roof of the nip compartment 106 through one or more attachment methods known in the art (e.g., adhesive, bolts, screws, welding, heat fusion, etc.). In one embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is integrally formed with the nip compartment 106. In one embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 extends downwards into the center roof of the nip compartment 106 by approximately 5 millimeters.

[0178] In one embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is configured to prevent liquid solution from the baby bottle 120 from leaking from the baby bottle nip by providing a formfitting surface to connect with the baby bottle nip. In one embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is configured to facilitate and/or guide compression of the baby bottle nip upon placing the pod onto the baby bottle. In this embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 facilitates a symmetrical downward depression of the baby bottle nip, such that the nip does not bend to one particular side and instead depresses directly downward into itself (as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 23). In this embodiment, the nip housing protrusion 129 is configured to grip the tip of the baby bottle nip as the pod is being placed on the baby bottle, such that the tip of the baby bottle nip frictionally and/or matingly engages the side walls of the nip housing protrusion 129. In this embodiment, the baby bottle nip is prevented from folding unevenly onto its side by the frictional and/or mating engagement with the nip housing protrusion 129.

[0179] FIG. 23 illustrates a side sectional view of a baby bottle pod with an umbrella lip 105 and a nip housing protrusion 129 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 23 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the pod 100, which includes an umbrella lip 105 and a nip housing protrusion 129. In one embodiment, the pod 100 includes a ring plug 102, which includes an umbrella lip 105 and a ring receptacle 107, a formula compartment 104, a nip compartment 106, which includes a nip housing protrusion 129, a nip compartment 106, a baby bottle nip 124, and a baby bottle 120. FIG. 23 illustrates how the umbrella lip 105 lays overtop of the formula compartment 104. FIG. 23 illustrates how the nip housing protrusion 129 facilitates compression of the baby bottle nip 124. In one embodiment, the ring plug 102 does not include a ring receptacle 107, rather the ring and/or handle portion of the ring plug 102 is integrally formed to the ring plug 102.

[0180] FIG. 23 serves as an example of how the present invention is operable to include some features described herein while excluding other features described herein. In one embodiment, the pod 100 does not include an umbrella lip 105 on the ring plug 102. In one embodiment, the pod 100 does not includes a nip housing protrusion 129. In one embodiment, the pod 100 includes features selected from the group consisting of a ring receptacle 107, an umbrella lip 105, a nip housing protrusion 129, a nip housing depression 128, and a pod fitting ring 112. In one embodiment, the pod 100 excludes features selected from the group consisting of a ring receptacle 107, an umbrella lip 105, a nip housing protrusion 129, a nip housing depression 128, and a pod fitting ring 112.

[0181] In one embodiment, the pod of the present invention is operable with a wide variety of baby bottles, regardless of their size and shape. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that different baby bottles have varying dimensions (i.e., one baby bottle may have a wider opening than another, a larger base, or a narrower nip than another). Despite this, the baby bottle pod is operable to be manufactured at varying dimensions to match those of different baby bottles. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the pod may be manufactured in varying proportions. One of ordinary skill in the art will understand that while the preferred embodiment functions with conventional baby bottles, the pod of the present application maintains its operability regardless of the scale. Additionally, and with respect to the pod fitting ring 112, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand the pod fitting ring 112 is designed to serve as an intermediary between the pod 100 and varying sized baby bottles 120, such that the pod 100 is operable with a wide variety of baby bottles 120 without varying the dimensions of the pod 100. Furthermore, the pod fitting ring 112 is operable to be manufactured in a variety of dimensions in order function with a variety of baby bottles.

[0182] In one embodiment, the pod of the present invention is sealed with a frangible film rather than a ring plunger at the pod's orifice. In one embodiment, the pod includes a piercing device attachment that is operable to pierce a frangible film of the pod. In one embodiment, the piercing device is attached to the aerator of the baby bottle. In this embodiment, the pod is operable to be turned upside down, wherein the piercer engages the frangible film whereupon the pod is twisted to completely remove the frangible film. In this embodiment, the piercer is of a size and shape where twisting the pod is operable to drag the piercer around the circumference of the frangible film, which results in the frangible film being completely released from the pod orifice and the formula compartment being exposed. In this embodiment, powdered formula is dispensed into the baby bottle through a twisting motion.

[0183] In one embodiment, the present invention includes a baby bottle that is compatible with the pod 100. In one embodiment, the baby bottle includes a container with a volume, a teat or “nip” with a nip volume, a nip housing unit, and an aerator unit. In one embodiment, the baby bottle container includes a plurality of threads. In one embodiment, the container's plurality of threads are compatible with similar threads located on the inner rim of the nip housing unit, such that, upon twisting, the baby bottle container and nip housing unit are fastened together by the thread interaction. In one embodiment, attachment of the nip housing unit to the container is achieved through a half turn (i.e., half of a full 360-degree turn). In one embodiment, attachment of the nip housing unit to the container is achieved through a quarter turn (i.e., a quarter of a full 360-degree turn). In one embodiment, the nip housing unit includes a baby bottle nip and an aerator unit. In one embodiment, the aerator unit is operable to allow air to enter the baby bottle container while in use. In one embodiment, the aerator is a duckbill shape and a slit valve. In one embodiment, the aerator is located on the lower base portion of the baby bottle nip. In one embodiment, the aerator includes, but is not limited to, that described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022/0378664.

[0184] In one embodiment, the pod 100 is operable with a conventional baby bottle. Examples of baby bottles compatible with the pod 100 include, but are not limited to, that described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022/0031572, U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,752,719, and 9,561,157, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0185] In one embodiment, the pod 100 is operable to store powder and/or liquid other than those utilized in feeding a baby. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the functionality of the pod 100, while preferably for powdered formula, is operable in a wide variety of fields. As an example, the pod 100 is operable to store protein powder and dispense protein powder into a larger contain than that described herein.

[0186] One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the need to separate solutes from their solvents, prior to their combination is useful in a wide variety of fields. Furthermore, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the pod 100 is operable to provide such a use, regardless of whether the solute is powdered formula and regardless of whether the solvent is water. As an example, the pod 100 is useful in storing and preparing concrete by ensuring the components thereto are separated, yet conveniently stored in one container, prior to mixing. In one embodiment, the pod 100 and the container upon which is attaches is of a shape and size larger than the pod 100 designed to function with a baby bottle. In one embodiment, the pod 100 and the container upon which is attaches is of a shape and size smaller than the pod 100 designed to function with a baby bottle.

[0187] One of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that the measurements and dimensions provided herein are only exemplary, and that other dimensions are operable to be utilized in connection with the components described herein.

[0188] Certain modifications and improvements will occur to those skilled in the art upon a reading of the foregoing description. The above-mentioned examples are provided to serve the purpose of clarifying the aspects of the invention and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that they do not serve to limit the scope of the invention. All modifications and improvements have been deleted herein for the sake of conciseness and readability but are properly within the scope of the present invention.