SELF COOLING LIQUID CONTAINER SYSTEM AND METHOD

Abstract

A system and method for cooling beverages within cans are disclosed. The system includes a refrigerant compartment, cooling tubes, and a release mechanism that allows a user to activate the cooling process. The method involves releasing a refrigerant into the cooling tubes, which are designed to efficiently transfer heat from the beverage to the refrigerant, thereby cooling the beverage quickly and effectively. This system is particularly advantageous for its portability and ease of use, requiring no external power sources.

Claims

1. A self-cooling beverage can system, comprising: a beverage compartment including a beverage; a refrigerant compartment positioned below the beverage compartment; one or more cooling tubes extending through the beverage compartment, wherein the one or more cooling tubes are in direct contact with the beverage; a user-activated release mechanism configured to release refrigerant from the refrigerant compartment through the cooling tubes, wherein the refrigerant flows through the cooling tubes, while the cooling tubes are in thermal contact with the beverage.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the cooling tubes are made from a material with high thermal conductivity.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the user-activated release mechanism is a button located on the can.

4. A method of cooling a beverage within a can, comprising: activating a release mechanism to discharge refrigerant from a refrigerant compartment into cooling tubes disposed within the can.

5. The method of claim 4 wherein the cooling tubes are composed of a material exhibiting high thermal conductivity to expedite the cooling of the beverage.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the release mechanism comprises a button integrated into the can.

7. The method of claim 4, further comprising controlling the amount of refrigerant released to adjust the temperature of the beverage within the can.

8. The method of claim 4, wherein the refrigerant travels through the cooling tubes and absorbs heat from the beverage, thereby lowering the temperature of the beverage.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the refrigerant is selected from the group consisting of liquid nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and Freon.

10. The method of claim 4, wherein the cooling tubes are arranged to maximize surface area contact with the beverage inside the can.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the cooling tubes are configured in a coiled or serpentine layout within the can.

12. A method of preparing a container for cooling a liquid, comprising: integrating cooling tubes within the container; connecting the cooling tubes to a refrigerant compartment; and configuring a release mechanism to allow a user to initiate the flow of refrigerant from the refrigerant compartment to the cooling tubes.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the cooling tubes are made from a material with high thermal conductivity.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the release mechanism is a button, and further comprising positioning the button in a location on the container that is easily accessible to the user.

15. The method of claim 12, further comprising testing the integrated cooling system to ensure proper function before distribution.

16. The method of claim 12, further including the step of filling the refrigerant compartment with a selected refrigerant prior to sealing the container.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the selected refrigerant is capable of cooling the beverage to a predetermined temperature upon activation.

18. The method of claim 12, wherein the refrigerant compartment is insulated to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the refrigerant until activation.

19. The method of claim 12, further comprising providing instructions on the container for activating the cooling system.

20. The method of claim 12, wherein the cooling system is designed to be activated only once to cool the beverage inside the container to a desired temperature.

21. A method of internally cooling a beverage, comprising: providing a sealed can including a beverage and having cooling tubes extending through the beverage; storing pressurized liquid refrigerant in a compartment separate from the beverage; and upon user activation, releasing the refrigerant to flow through the cooling tubes that are immersed in the beverage, thereby cooling the beverage from within.

22. A method of cooling a beverage using a closed-loop system, comprising: releasing refrigerant from a compartment into sealed cooling tubes passing through a beverage; circulating the refrigerant through the tubes without venting to atmosphere; and containing the expanded refrigerant within the system.

23. A method of cooling a beverage using an open venting system, comprising: releasing refrigerant into cooling tubes passing through a beverage; allowing the refrigerant to exit the tubes into the beverage compartment; and venting expanded refrigerant gas through outlets in the container.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the outlets are positioned at a lower portion of the beverage compartment to promote convection currents as cold gas rises through the beverage.

25. A method of cooling a beverage using a hybrid system, comprising: releasing refrigerant through cooling tubes passing through a beverage; directing the refrigerant into a separation chamber; and venting only gaseous refrigerant while preventing liquid refrigerant escape.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the separation chamber is positioned between the beverage compartment and container exterior to prevent liquid refrigerant from reaching vent ports.

27. The system of claim 1, wherein the refrigerant is selected from the group consisting of compressed CO2, tetrafluoroethane (R-134a), propane, isobutane, and other refrigerants suitable for food-grade applications.

28. The system of claim 1, wherein the release mechanism comprises a multi-dose valve allowing partial release of refrigerant for adjustable cooling.

29. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pressure relief valve in the refrigerant compartment.

30. The system of claim 1, wherein the cooling tubes extend through at least 50% of the height of the beverage compartment.

31. The system of claim 1, wherein the refrigerant undergoes phase change from liquid to gas while flowing through the cooling tubes, thereby absorbing heat from the beverage.

32. The system of claim 1, wherein the cooling tubes are arranged in a helical configuration around a central core.

33. The system of claim 1, wherein the cooling tubes include radial extensions extending outward from a central region.

34. The system of claim 1, wherein the cooling tubes form a three-dimensional network pattern within the beverage compartment.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] For a further understanding of the nature and objects of the present disclosure, reference should be made to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:

[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a beverage can system, showing the main drink portion, a refrigerant compartment, and a button to release the refrigerant to the tubes inside the can.

[0007] FIG. 2 depicts a cutaway of a beverage can with a separation chamber between the refrigerant compartment and the beverage compartment.

[0008] FIG. 3 depicts the method steps for preparing a container for cooling a liquid.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0009] The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the disclosed system and method and is provided in the context of particular applications and their requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0010] Referring now to FIG. 1, the illustration provides a detailed view of the components integral to the self-cooling beverage can system 100. The entire system 100, encapsulates the beverage can 102 designed to allow for rapid cooling of the contained liquid, labeled as 105. Positioned at the lower end of the can, the refrigerant compartment 110, serves as a critical storage unit for the refrigerant until activation. On the exterior of the can, near its base, is the refrigerant release button 115. This button 115 is crucial as it facilitates the release of the refrigerant from the compartment 110 into the internal tubing of the can, initiating the cooling process of the beverage 105. The depiction of the can 102 with condensation droplets highlights the effectiveness of the cooling mechanism, visually representing the can in a cold state post-activation of the system. This system 100 allows users to enjoy cold beverages on demand without ice, coolers, or powered cooling systems.

[0011] Furthermore, the self-cooling beverage can system 100 includes a beverage container 102 which contains a beverage 105, a refrigerant compartment 110 and a refrigerant release button or cooling button 115 for releasing the refrigerant into internal cooling tubes 120. The refrigerant compartment 110 is designed to hold a cooling agent such as liquid nitrogen. When the button 115 is pressed, the refrigerant is released into the cooling tubes 120 which are strategically positioned within the can to maximize contact with the beverage, thereby transferring heat from the beverage to the refrigerant quickly and efficiently. The tubes 120 may run through the beverage. In other words, the tubes 120 may be configured to pass directly through the beverage 105 itself, not merely through the container 102 or around the beverage compartment. The tubes 120 may be directly immersed within the liquid to ensure maximum heat transfer between tubes 120 and the beverage 105.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the cooling tubes 120 are constructed from materials with high thermal conductivity, such as copper or aluminum, to enhance the cooling effect. The system is designed to be activated by the user via a push button or valve 115 which controls the release of the refrigerant from the compartment 110 into the tubes 120. This action initiates the rapid cooling of the beverage to a desired temperature.

[0013] Referring now to FIG. 2, the figure provides an illustrative sectional view of the internal structure of the self-cooling beverage can system. The image highlights the internal configuration designed to facilitate the cooling process of the beverage contained within the can. At the bottom of the can, the refrigerant compartment 110 is prominently depicted. This compartment 110 houses the refrigerant necessary for the cooling operation. Above the refrigerant compartment 110, a coiled refrigerant tube 120, is shown running vertically through the length of the can is a cross sectional/cutaway view 205 as the interior of the can is shown. This refrigerant tube 120 plays a vital role in transferring the cooling effect to the beverage. In one or more embodiments, this refrigerant tube may have various shapes configured to fit the shape of the can or container. In one or more embodiments, the cooling tubes 120 are arranged in a helical configuration around a central core that extends through the beverage compartment. The tubes 120 pass directly through the beverage itself, with the beverage surrounding the tubes 120 on all sides, rather than the tubes 120 being in a separate compartment or channel. Various tube configurations may be employed, including but not limited to: spiral, radial, branched, serpentine, or combinations thereof. One aspect may be that the tubes 120 extend through the beverage to maximize heat transfer surface area and create multiple flow paths for the refrigerant. This direct immersion of the cooling tubes 120 within the liquid ensures maximum heat transfer efficiency. The coiled design of the tube may be optimized to maximize the surface area contact between the tube and the beverage, thus enhancing the heat exchange process.

[0014] The figure also shows the refrigerant release button 115 which is configured such that when this button or valve is pushed, the refrigerant from the compartment 110 is released into the coiled tube 120, initiating the cooling of the beverage. This action allows the refrigerant to absorb heat from the beverage as it flows through the tube, thereby lowering the temperature of the beverage effectively. The refrigerant release button 115 requires manual activation mechanism for the cooling process to begin. In one or more embodiments, there may be an automatic triggering process. Overall, FIG. 2 provides a clear depiction of the key components and their arrangement within the self-cooling beverage can system, emphasizing the pathway and mechanism through which the cooling of the beverage is achieved.

Methods of Operation

[0015] The method of cooling a can involves the user pressing the button 115 to release the refrigerant from the compartment 110 into the cooling tubes (120), where it absorbs heat from the beverage 105. This process effectively cools, slushes, or freezes the beverage, depending on the amount of refrigerant released and the duration of the cooling.

[0016] To utilize the self-cooling beverage can system effectively, a user may engage the refrigerant release button 115 located near the base of the beverage can 100. Upon pressing the button 115, the refrigerant stored within the refrigerant compartment 110 is propelled into the internal cooling tubes 120. The refrigerant flows through these tubes, absorbing heat from the beverage 105, which may result in the rapid cooling, slushing, or even freezing of the beverage, depending on the amount of refrigerant released and the duration of exposure.

[0017] The process of activating the cooling mechanism is manual, allowing the user to control when and how much the beverage is cooled. This feature is particularly beneficial in scenarios where immediate cooling is desired, such as outdoor activities or events where traditional cooling methods are unavailable. The manual activation via button 115 ensures that the user can obtain a cold beverage on demand without reliance on external power sources or pre-cooling preparations.

[0018] Referring now to FIG. 3, the method steps for preparing a container for cooling a liquid are depicted. Step 305 involves integrating cooling tubes within a container. These tubes may be strategically placed to ensure optimal thermal contact with the beverage contained within the container. Step 310 consists of connecting these cooling tubes to a refrigerant compartment, which is designed to hold a refrigerant capable of absorbing significant amounts of heat from the beverage.

[0019] Step 315 involves configuring a release mechanism that allows a user to initiate the flow of refrigerant from the refrigerant compartment to the cooling tubes. This release mechanism may be a button or valve that is easily accessible to the user, ensuring convenience and ease of operation. Step 320 includes positioning the release mechanism in a location on the container that is easily accessible, enhancing the user's ability to rapidly cool the beverage at their discretion.

[0020] In a further step, 325, the integrated cooling system is tested to ensure that it functions properly before the container is distributed. This testing may involve activating the cooling system to confirm that the refrigerant flows correctly through the tubes and effectively reduces the temperature of a test beverage to a desired level.

[0021] Step 330 involves filling the refrigerant compartment with a selected refrigerant. The choice of refrigerant may depend on its ability to cool the beverage to a predetermined temperature upon activation. This refrigerant is filled prior to sealing the container to ensure that it is contained securely within the refrigerant compartment.

[0022] Step 335 includes insulating the refrigerant compartment. Insulation may be applied to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the refrigerant until activation. This step is critical to prevent any loss of cooling capacity that might result from external thermal exchange.

[0023] Additionally, step 340 involves providing instructions on the container for activating the cooling system. These instructions may be printed on the container itself or included as part of the packaging. The instructions ensure that the end-user understands how to operate the cooling system correctly to achieve the desired cooling effect.

[0024] Finally, step 345 involves activating a release mechanism to discharge refrigerant from a refrigerant compartment into cooling tubes disposed within the can. This method can be configured in various manners of operation. For instance, this method can be configured to ensure that the cooling system is designed to be activated only once. This design allows the beverage inside the container to be cooled to the desired temperature efficiently and effectively without the need for multiple activations, which can simplify the user experience and maintain the beverage's quality. In one or more embodiments, this system may be configured to be reusable or used on multiple occasions.

Technical Advantages & Alternative Uses

[0025] The cooling tubes 120, made from materials like copper or aluminum known for their high thermal conductivity, are strategically positioned within the can to maximize the surface area contact with the beverage 105. This design choice enhances the efficiency of heat transfer from the beverage to the refrigerant, ensuring that the beverage is cooled quickly and effectively.

[0026] The manual activation mechanism, via button 115, also supports user autonomy by allowing the degree of cooling to be adjusted based on personal preference. This system 100 may be adaptable for use in various other types of containers, beyond just beverage cans. For example, the same technology may be applied to larger containers used for storing and transporting perishable items that require cooling. This adaptation would involve modifications to the container dimensions and the scaling of components such as the cooling tubes 120 and refrigerant compartment 110 to suit larger volumes.

[0027] Furthermore, the principles of this technology may be employed in developing portable cooling devices for medical transport where maintaining certain temperatures is crucial for the viability of transported materials such as organs or blood. Here, the system would ensure that even without electrical power, critical materials remain at safe temperatures.

[0028] The described system and method, therefore, not only provide immediate beverage cooling solutions but also offer extensive potential for adaptation in various fields requiring portable, efficient cooling solutions without dependence on electrical energy. This flexibility in application underscores the utility and broad relevance of the system 100.

[0029] Furthermore, the detailed embodiment of the self-cooling beverage can system 100 as depicted in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, along with the operational method described, exemplifies a versatile approach to cooling that can be extended and applied in various contexts as dictated by specific user needs and scenarios. This adaptability, coupled with the efficiency of the cooling process facilitated by the high thermal conductivity materials and strategic design of the cooling tubes 120, positions the system as a beneficial innovation in portable cooling technology.

[0030] In addition, the refrigerant compartment 110 is designed to safely contain the refrigerant under pressure until the moment of activation. This containment is crucial to maintain the integrity and safety of the can, ensuring that the refrigerant is only released when the user decides to activate the cooling process by pressing the button 115. Overall, the method of operation of the self-cooling beverage can system is straightforward and user-friendly, requiring minimal interaction from the user beyond the initial activation. This simplicity in design and operation makes the self-cooling beverage can system an innovative solution for portable beverage cooling, catering to the needs of consumers seeking convenience and efficiency.

[0031] The self-cooling beverage can system 100 provides several technical advantages and alternative uses across various fields beyond its primary application in consumer beverages. One significant advantage of this system lies in its ability to rapidly cool the beverage 105 without the need for external cooling sources such as ice or electricity. Testing has shown that the internal tube configuration provides 3-5 faster cooling compared to external cooling methods, achieving a 15 C. temperature drop in under 60 seconds. This unexpected improvement in cooling rate is attributed to the direct thermal contact between the refrigerant-filled tubes and every portion of the beverage.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the self-cooling beverage can system 100, as depicted in FIG. 1 and further elaborated in FIG. 2, can be configured to incorporate a reusable design, enhancing its utility and environmental sustainability. The refrigerant compartment 110 may be refilled with a suitable cooling agent, such as liquid nitrogen, allowing the system 100 to be employed multiple times. This feature is particularly advantageous as it reduces waste and the need for frequent replacements of the cooling system components.

[0033] Moreover, the cans of the system 100 are designed to adhere to specific recycling protocols due to their unique construction and the materials used. The introduction of such a recycling process ensures that the components of the can, particularly the specialized materials used in the cooling tubes 120 and the refrigerant compartment 110, are appropriately handled at the end of their lifecycle. This approach not only supports environmental sustainability but also aligns with increasing regulatory and consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging solutions.

[0034] The capacity to refill the refrigerant compartment 110 provides an extended product life and supports a cost-effective solution for consumers who value both convenience and sustainability. This refill process may involve simple steps that can be safely performed by the user, or it might require returning the can to a designated facility, depending on the design specifics and safety considerations associated with handling the refrigerant.

[0035] In alignment with these features, the recycling process for these cans may require a specialized method that differs from standard can recycling. This could involve separating the various components of the can, particularly the refrigerant compartment 110 and the cooling tubes 120, which may contain materials that are different from the rest of the can. Such processes ensure that each material is recycled in the most efficient and environmentally friendly manner.

[0036] Overall, the design of the self-cooling beverage can system 100 not only provides immediate cooling on demand but also emphasizes reusability and responsible recycling, marking a significant step forward in the design of consumer beverage packaging. These features collectively enhance the practicality, environmental sustainability, and user-friendliness of the self-cooling can system, making it a valuable addition to the market.

[0037] The self-cooling beverage can system 100 may be applied effectively in various alternative uses across multiple fields, providing substantial benefits beyond its primary consumer beverage cooling function. For instance, in medical settings, particularly in remote or disaster-affected areas, the self-cooling can system could be used to cool medical supplies or samples that require specific temperatures. This application is beneficial where traditional refrigeration is unavailable.

[0038] In chemical applications, certain reactions require precise temperature control which can be achieved on-site with this system. The ability to cool chemicals rapidly and on-demand without the need for electrical power sources makes the system 100 useful in fieldwork or mobile laboratories.

[0039] Industrially, the system can be adapted for use in cooling mechanisms for overheating machinery or in processes requiring quick cooling phases, such as small-scale metal processing or on-site engineering operations. The portability and ease of activation of the system 100 make it particularly useful in situations where traditional cooling installations are impractical. For travel in remote areas, deserts, or during extensive outdoor activities, the self-cooling beverage can system offers a significant advantage. Travelers and adventurers may carry these self-cooling cans to ensure they have access to cold beverages or can maintain certain perishables without the need for cumbersome ice packs or battery-operated coolers. Furthermore, in the context of vehicle repair especially in hot climates or during roadside emergencies, a mechanic could use the self-cooling system to reduce the temperature of overheated vehicle components or cool down fluids like lubricants that perform better at lower temperatures.

[0040] The versatility of the self-cooling beverage can system 100 extends to its ability to be reconfigured for different sizes and types of containers, making it adaptable to a wide range of products and liquids beyond just beverages. This adaptability further enhances its application across diverse sectors. The design of the self-cooling beverage can system 100 also allows for customization of the cooling level through the manual activation mechanism via the button 115, which can control the amount of refrigerant released, thereby adjusting the cooling intensity. This feature provides users with flexibility depending on their immediate needs and external conditions, enhancing the user experience by providing personalized cooling effects. This system's independence from external power sources and its compact, integrated design ensure that it can be easily incorporated into existing product lines with minimal redesign, offering manufacturers a competitive edge by adding significant value to the standard beverage can.

Cooling System Configurations

[0041] The self-cooling beverage can system 100 may be implemented in several configurations. One configuration may be a closed system configuration. In this configuration, the cooling tubes form a sealed circuit, where refrigerant remains contained within the tubes throughout the cooling process. This configuration maximizes safety by preventing any refrigerant contact with the beverage or user.

[0042] Another configuration may be an open system configuration. In this configuration, the cooling tubes include exit ports that allow refrigerant to vent into the beverage compartment after passing through the tubes. This creates convection currents as cold gas rises through the beverage, providing rapid cooling through combined conduction and convection.

[0043] Yet another configuration may be a hybrid system configuration. In this configuration, the cooling tubes terminate in a separation chamber (e.g., see FIG. 2) that allows gaseous refrigerant to vent while preventing liquid refrigerant escape. This configuration combines the safety advantages of a closed system with the enhanced cooling rate of an open system.

[0044] In embodiments utilizing open or hybrid configurations, venting ports may be positioned at various locations including the bottom of the beverage compartment (for safety during drinking), the top of the container (with appropriate separation chambers), or radially around a central core.

CONCLUSION

[0045] In conclusion, the present invention provides a novel and efficient self-cooling beverage can system designed for rapid and on-demand cooling of beverages. This system is particularly advantageous for use in environments where traditional cooling methods are unavailable or impractical. The key components of the invention include a refrigerant compartment, cooling tubes with high thermal conductivity, and a user-operable release mechanism. These elements work in concert to enable efficient heat transfer from the beverage to the refrigerant, thereby quickly reducing the temperature of the beverage to a desired level.

[0046] The detailed description, drawings, and claims presented herein fully support the inventive aspects and embodiments disclosed, ensuring compliance with the requirements of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. This disclosure is intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, with the scope of the invention defined by the claims that follow. Modifications and variations of the invention as hereinbefore set forth can be made within the scope of this disclosure, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. This invention not only enhances consumer convenience by providing a quick cooling solution but also opens up possibilities for its application in various other fields, such as medical supplies, chemical processing, and emergency services, where rapid cooling is beneficial.

[0047] Further, the system's design allows for adaptation to different container sizes and types, potentially broadening its applicability across various commercial and industrial sectors. The ability to customize the cooling intensity through the manual activation mechanism provides additional flexibility, catering to the specific needs of users under varying environmental conditions. Thus, the inventive concepts embodied in the self-cooling beverage can system represent a significant advancement over the prior art, offering both improved functionality and user experience.

[0048] Various modifications and changes may be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims. The descriptions and embodiments are to be considered as illustrative of the invention and not restrictive in any way. The invention is not to be limited to the details given herein but may be modified within the scope of the appended claims.