SELF-HEATING BEVERAGE CONTAINER

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is based on the provisional application filed on Mar. 29, 2024, Ser. No. 63/571,438, to which Applicant claims filing priority.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

This invention is not the result of any federally sponsored research or development.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present application relates to the technical field of beverage containers, and in particular, relates to a self-heating beverage container.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

The following description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the present disclosure, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

The field of portable hot beverage containers has long been fraught with challenges, particularly in the domain of self-heating containers. Traditional self-heating containers have struggled to balance functionality, efficiency, and user experience, often falling short in one or more areas. These shortcomings have underscored the need for a novel solution that addresses the limitations of existing technologies and offers a more user-friendly and efficient alternative.

Self-heating containers have been in existence for decades, employing various methods for activation and heat generation. However, many of these designs have been marred by complexity, high manufacturing costs, and ergonomic challenges. The conventional approach typically involves containers with internal chambers containing water and exothermic materials, requiring multiple steps for activation and posing risks of leakage and pressure buildup. Moreover, the need for specialized components and intricate manufacturing processes has rendered these containers economically unviable for widespread adoption.

In the field of hot beverage transportation, products utilizing combinations of paperboard, cardstock, or cardboard containers holding aluminium bags have been explored. While these designs have proven effective for transporting hot beverages, they have not been optimized for self-heating functionality. The lack of integration between insulation and heating mechanisms has hindered the development of true grab-and-go hot beverage solutions, leaving consumers with limited options for convenient access to hot drinks on the move.

The shortcomings of current self-heating containers are further exacerbated by ergonomic and usability issues. The multi-step activation process and the requirement for precise handling have deterred potential users, particularly those unfamiliar with the technology. Additionally, the lack of intuitive functionality and ergonomic design has made these containers less accessible to individuals with mobility or dexterity limitations, further limiting their market appeal.

Historically, self-heating containers often heat the inside of a can using a chemical reaction within an internal chamber or separately attached chamber on the bottom side of the can. These containers are used for the purpose of heating liquids like, but not exclusive to tea, coffee, hot chocolate, etc. In the field of hot beverage transportation, there have been products or totes utilizing a combination of paperboard, cardstock, or cardboard containers holding aluminium bags. However, while there have been combinations of paperboard, cardstock, and cardboard with aluminium bags to transport hot beverages this material combination has not been pursued for the purpose of self-heating. These challenges underscore the need for a self-heating beverage container that offers a seamless and user-friendly experience while maintaining high levels of heating efficiency and economic viability.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present disclosure overcomes one or more shortcomings of the prior art and provides additional advantages discussed throughout the present disclosure. Additional features and advantages are realized through the techniques of the present disclosure. Other embodiments and aspects of the disclosure are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed disclosure.

One aspect of the present disclosure relates to self-heating beverage container. The self-heating beverage container includes a paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving defining an interior space. The self-heating beverage container can include an insulated container bag located within the interior space of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving to house the internal components. The self-heating beverage container also includes a bag, formed of mylar or polypropylene, within the insulated container bag. The bag comprises an open end and a close end. The bag is formed of mylar or polypropylene and is configured to contain a beverage to be heated prior to consumption. The self-heating beverage container includes a fitment configured to cover the open end of the bag. The fitment forms a neck of the self-heating beverage container. The fitment receives a lid of the self-heating beverage container. The self-heating beverage container includes a mineral pocket that is attached to the bag formed mylar or polypropylene by high temperature resistant glue or a heat seal. The mineral pocket contains minerals that, when combined with a liquid, generally water, activates the heating process to heat the liquid which, in turn, heats the beverage.

The self-heating beverage container includes a liquid chamber within the insulated container bag. The liquid chamber is positioned proximate to an upper portion of the interior space of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving and attached to the fitment. The self-heating beverage container includes a puncture device mounted on an exterior surface of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving, adjacent to the liquid chamber. The puncture device is operable to rupture the liquid chamber upon activation. The mineral pocket is configured to receive water released from the ruptured liquid chamber. If the self-heating beverage container does not contain the insulating container bag and instead utilizes a corrugated paperboard sleeve the mineral pocket is still positioned to receive water released from the ruptured liquid chamber. An exothermic reaction between the released water and the minerals generates heat to warm the beverage contained within the bag. The liquid chamber is filled with water.

In an exemplary embodiment, the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving is lined with a foil layer. The foil layer is formed of a material selected from a group. The group comprises tin, aluminium, and copper.

In an exemplary embodiment, the minerals contained in the mineral pocket comprise magnesium and iron.

In an exemplary embodiment, the puncture device is a device selected from a first group. The first group comprising a mechanical puncture device and an electrical puncture device.

In an exemplary embodiment, the puncture device is activated by an activation movement selected from a second group. The second group comprises a pulling movement, a pushing movement, a twisting movement and a turning movement.

In an exemplary embodiment, the puncture device comprises a plastic casing, a push button, a flat area, a hollow tube and a sharp element. The hollow tube receives the sharp element.

In one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing the self-heating beverage container. The method includes puncturing a hole towards a top half of a back side of a paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving by a corrugated star or stamping. The method includes placing a puncture device in the punctured hole. The method includes cutting an insulated container bag to size. The method includes inserting a bag formed of mylar or polypropylene inside the insulated container bag. The method includes positioning a mineral pocket within the insulated container bag attached to the mylar or polypropylene bag. The method includes attaching a liquid chamber to the top of the mylar or polypropylene bag. The method includes feeding the insulated container bag through the top of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving with the fitment of the mylar or polypropylene bag fitting within an opening at the top of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving to form a drinking neck. The method includes gluing the bottom of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving shut. The method includes filling the bag with a beverage and vacuum sealing the bag, and pressing and sealing the fitment on top of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving.

In an exemplary embodiment, the puncture device is affixed to the paperboard container using an adhesive.

In an exemplary embodiment, the mineral pocket is positioned concentrically around the mylar or polypropylene bag within the insulated container bag.

In an exemplary embodiment, the mylar or polypropylene bag is filled with a beverage prior to insertion into the insulated container bag.

The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The embodiments of the disclosure itself, as well as a preferred mode of use, further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. One or more embodiments are now described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a first self-heating beverage container of a first type existing in the prior-art;

FIG. 2 illustrates a second self-heating beverage container of a second type existing in the prior-art;

FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of a self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3B illustrates an insulated container bag of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3C illustrates a back view of a self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3D illustrates a perspective view of a self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4A illustrates a front view of an assembly of a puncture device of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4B illustrates a top view of the assembly of the puncture device of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4C illustrates a plastic casing of the assembly of the puncture device of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4D illustrates a sharp element of the assembly of the puncture device of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5A illustrates a front view of internal components of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5B illustrates a side view of internal components of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6A illustrates a front view of a paperboard assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of the paperboard assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7A illustrates unpressed state of the puncture device of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7B illustrates pressed state of the puncture device of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7C illustrates a sharp element and a casing of the puncture device of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8A illustrates a front view of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 8B illustrates a side view of the self-heating beverage container, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

The figures depict embodiments of the disclosure for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the present document, the word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment or implementation of the present subject matter described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

While the disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiment thereof has been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It should be understood, however that it is not intended to limit the disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternative falling within the scope of the disclosure.

The terms “comprise”, “comprising”, “include(s)”, or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a setup, system or method that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or system or method. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises . . . a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.

In the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the disclosure may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The following description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals will be used to refer to the same or like parts. Embodiments of the disclosure are described in the following paragraphs with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3 and FIG. 4.

FIG. 1 illustrates a first self-heating beverage container 100 of a first type existing in the prior-art. FIG. 2 illustrates a second self-heating beverage container 200 of a second type existing in the prior-art. The first self-heating beverage container 100 of the prior art includes a main compartment 102 to holds the beverage intended to be heated. This is typically a liquid such as tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. The first self-heating beverage container 100 of the prior art includes an internal chamber 104 situated at the bottom portion of the container 100 and is designed to house the components necessary for initiating the exothermic reaction. It is separated from the beverage compartment by a membrane. The first self-heating beverage container 100 of the prior art includes a minerals chamber 106. The mineral chamber 106 contains solid minerals and when these minerals come into contact with water, they undergo an exothermic reaction, releasing heat. The first self-heating beverage container 100 of the prior art includes a water chamber 108 positioned adjacent to the heating minerals chamber, this compartment holds water. The water is isolated from the minerals by a separation membrane 110, preventing premature reaction. When the separation membrane 110 is punctured, the water is released into the heating minerals chamber. The separation membrane 110 is a thin barrier separates the water chamber 108 from the heating minerals chamber. The membrane prevents the water from mixing with the minerals until the user initiates the heating process. Once punctured, the membrane allows the water to flow into the minerals chamber, triggering the exothermic reaction. The first self-heating beverage container 100 of the prior art includes a puncturing device 112 located at the bottom of the container 100. The puncturing device 112 is used to break the separating membrane 110. A user activates the puncturing device 112 by pushing it from the bottom, which causes the sharp element to pierce the membrane and release the water. The first self-heating beverage container 100 of the prior art includes a peel-off layer 114: The peel off layer 114 is designed to cover the puncturing device 112, keeping it sterile and preventing accidental activation. The user must peel off the peel off layer 114 to access the puncturing mechanism.

FIG. 2 illustrates the second self-heating beverage container 200 of the second type existing in the prior-art. The second self-heating beverage container 200 of the prior art includes a main compartment 202 to holds the beverage intended to be heated. This is typically a liquid such as tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. The second self-heating beverage container 200 of the prior art includes an internal chamber 204 situated at the bottom portion of the container 100 and is designed to house the components necessary for initiating the exothermic reaction. It is separated from the beverage compartment by a membrane. The second self-heating beverage container 200 of the prior art includes a minerals chamber 206. The mineral chamber 206 contains solid minerals and when these minerals come into contact with water, they undergo an exothermic reaction, releasing heat. The second self-heating beverage container 200 of the prior art includes a water chamber 208 positioned adjacent to the heating minerals chamber, this compartment holds water. The water is isolated from the minerals by a separation membrane 210, preventing premature reaction. When the separation membrane 210 is punctured, the water is released into the heating minerals chamber. The separation membrane 210 is a thin barrier separates the water chamber from the heating minerals chamber. The membrane prevents the water from mixing with the minerals until the user initiates the heating process. Once ruptured, the membrane allows the water to flow into the minerals chamber, triggering the exothermic reaction. The second self-heating beverage container 200 of the prior art includes a puncturing tool 212 located at the bottom of the container 100. The puncturing tool 212 is used to break the separating membrane 210. A user activates the puncturing tool 212 by twisting it from the bottom, which causes the puncturing tool 212 to pierce the membrane and release the water. The second self-heating beverage container 200 of the prior art includes a twistable base 214: The twistable base 214 provides an ergonomic and intuitive method for a user to activate the heating mechanism. Twisting the twistable base 214 punctures the membrane, initiating the reaction that heats the beverage.

The current self-heating containers 100, 200 suffer from several significant drawbacks. A primary issue is the lack of a true grab-and-go functionality that is both economically viable and ergonomically intuitive. The need for specialized self-heating containers to contain the heating chambers, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, complicates the manufacturing process. These self-heating containers require high precision parts to avoid leaks and hazardous pressure buildups, which in turn drives up production costs. The integration of complex metal joining methods further adds to the expense, making it challenging to offer these containers at a competitive price point.

Another major drawback of traditional self-heating containers is their cumbersome activation process. Typically, these containers require multiple steps and the use of both hands to activate the heating system. This multi-step process is not only non-intuitive but also inconvenient, deterring sceptical or unaware customers from using the product. The need for two hands for activation lacks ergonomic consideration compared to a single-step, single-hand activation mechanism. These self-heating containers are required to have a specialty insulation layer to keep the user's hand from getting burned.

Furthermore, the design of existing self-heating cans, particularly the placement of the activation mechanism at the base, impedes optimal heat transfer. The internal chamber's shape and position do not promote maximum conduction, leading to inefficient heating. By containing the activation device in the bottom of the can, the design fails to leverage the benefits of enhanced convection within the container, resulting in uneven heating and longer wait times for the beverage to reach the desired temperature. In the broader context of hot beverage transportation, products utilizing a combination of paperboard, cardstock, or cardboard containers holding aluminium bags have been explored. However, these materials have primarily been used for transporting pre-heated beverages rather than integrating a self-heating mechanism. The lack of integration between the insulating and heating components has further limited the functionality and appeal of such products.

FIG. 3A illustrates a front view of a self-heating beverage container 300, of the present invention, to provide convenient access to hot beverages. FIG. 3B illustrates an insulated container bag 304 of the self-heating beverage container 300 of the present invention to house the internal components. FIG. 3C illustrates a back view of a self-heating beverage container 300 of the present disclosure. FIG. 3D illustrates a perspective view of a self-heating beverage container 300 of the present disclosure. The self-heating beverage container 300 comprises the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302, the insulated container bag 304, a bag 306, a mineral pocket 308, a liquid chamber 310, a puncture device 312 and a lid 314. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 300 includes any other modules or components.

The self-heating beverage container 300 includes the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302. The paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302 defines an interior space. The paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302 is lined with a foil layer. The foil layer is formed of a material selected from a group. The group includes tin, aluminium, and copper. In an embodiment of the present disclosure the foil layer is made of any suitable material. The self-heating beverage container 300 includes the insulated container bag 304. The insulated container bag 304 is positioned within the interior space of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302 and houses the internal components. The insulated container bag 304 receives the bag 306. The bag 306 is formed of mylar or polypropylene. The bag 306 is configured to contain a beverage. The bag 306 comprises an open end and a close end. The self-heating beverage container 300 includes a fitment configured to cover the open end of the bag 306. The fitment forms a neck of the self-heating beverage container 300. The fitment receives the lid 314 of the self-heating beverage container 100. If the self-heating beverage container 300 does not contain the insulating container bag 304 and instead utilizes the corrugated paperboard sleeve 302, the mineral pocket 308 is still positioned to receive water released from the ruptured liquid chamber 310.

The self-heating beverage container 300 includes the mineral pocket 308 that is attached to the bag formed mylar or polypropylene 306 by high temperature resistant glue or a heat seal. The mineral pocket 308 is designed to store, and in a preferred embodiment, does store magnesium and iron. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the mineral pocket may store any suitable exothermic minerals. The self-heating beverage container 300 includes the liquid chamber 310. The liquid chamber 310 contains water. The liquid chamber 310 is positioned proximate to an upper portion of the interior space of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302. The liquid chamber 310 is attached to the fitment. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the liquid chamber 310 is placed at any suitable position. The self-heating beverage container 300 includes a puncture device 312 mounted on an exterior surface of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302. The puncture device 312 is mounted adjacent to the liquid chamber 310. The puncture device 312 is operable to rupture the liquid chamber 310 upon activation. The lid 314 covers an opening of the self-heating beverage container 300 to enable access to the stored beverage. The lid 314 is rotated by a user to access a hot beverage stored in the self-heating beverage container 300.

The paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302 includes an opening at an upper half of its back side to accommodate the puncture device 312. The puncture device 312, affixed within the opening, serves as a pivotal element in the self-heating beverage container 300 activation mechanism. The puncture device 312 enables initiation of the heating process with a single hand motion. The design of the puncture device 312 ensures user-friendly operation, allowing users to activate the heating mechanism effortlessly.

The puncture device 312 is a device selected from a first group. The first group comprises a mechanical puncture device and an electrical puncture device. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the puncture device 312 is any suitable device. The puncture device 312 comprises a side-mounted twisting mechanism. The puncture device 312 comprises a trigger mechanism with a piercing element. The puncture device 312 is activated by a movement selected from a second group. The second group comprises a pulling movement, a pushing movement, a twisting movement and a turning movement. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the puncture device 312 is activated by any suitable movement.

FIG. 4A illustrates front view of an assembly 400 of the puncture device 312 of the self-heating beverage container 300. FIG. 4B illustrates top view of the assembly 400 of the puncture device 312 of the self-heating beverage container 300. FIG. 4C illustrates a plastic casing 402 of the assembly 400 of the puncture device 312 of the self-heating beverage container 300. FIG. 4D illustrates a sharp element 410 of the assembly 400 of the puncture device 312 of the self-heating beverage container 300. The assembly 400 includes the plastic casing 402, a push button 404, a flat area 406, a hollow tube 408 and the sharp element 410. The assembly 400 includes the plastic casing 402 designed to provide structural integrity and support to the components of the puncture device 312. The plastic casing 402 serves as the primary housing for the puncture device 312 to support internal mechanisms and ensuring proper alignment and operation. The plastic casing 402 includes the push button 404 positioned to enable a user-friendly activation of the puncture device 312. The push button 404 allows individuals to initiate the heating process with a single hand motion, enhancing the overall user experience and convenience. When a user applies pressure on the push button 404, the activation mechanism of the puncture device 312 is activated.

The plastic casing 402 is provided with the flat area 406 specifically designed for gluing to the paperboard container 302. The flat area 406 ensures secure attachment of the puncture device 312 to the self-heating beverage container. The flat area 406 enables secure attachment to the paperboard container 302 and minimises the risk of detachment or malfunction during use. The flat area 406 is attached with adhesive to the paperboard container 302 to make the puncture device 312 an integral part of the self-heating beverage container 300. The assembly 400 includes the hollow tube 408 engineered to receive the sharp element 410. The hollow tube 408 is extending perpendicular to the plane of the flat area 406 and serves as a conduit for the sharp element 410. The hollow tube 408 guides the movement of the sharp element 410 to ensure precise alignment of the sharp element 410 during activation.

The hollow tube 408 facilitates smooth and controlled movement of the sharp element 410 to minimise friction and ensure proper piercing. When the push button 404 is pressed, the activation mechanism of the puncture device 312 is activated, causing the sharp element 410 to move beyond the hollow tube 408. The movement allows the sharp element 410 to pierce the liquid chamber 310 to initiate release of water and triggering the exothermic reaction that generates heat when the water reacts upon coming into contact with the minerals contained in mineral pocket 308. The assembly 400 ensures that the sharp element 410 moves swiftly and accurately to puncture the liquid chamber 410 with precision and efficiency. The puncture device 312 is an essential component of the self-heating beverage container 300 designed to facilitate the activation of the container's heating mechanism with ease and precision. The assembly 400 of the puncture device ensures reliable performance and user-friendly operation, enhancing the overall functionality and convenience of the container.

The bag 306 is a specialized component formed of mylar or polypropylene and intended to contain the beverage to be heated. The bag 306 serves as a key element in facilitating efficient heat distribution and retention of beverages. The bag 306 is lined with a reflective foil layer, enhancing its ability to trap and reflect heat generated during the heating process. The heat reflective properties of the foil layer ensure that heat is effectively contained within the bag 306, preventing dissipation and maximizing heating efficiency.

The mineral pocket 308 is positioned within the insulating bag 304 attached to the bag 306. The minerals contained in the mineral pocket 308 comprise magnesium and iron. The minerals play a crucial role in initiating an exothermic reaction when combined with water. The reaction, triggered upon activation of the container's heating mechanism, generates heat that rapidly warms the beverage contained within the bag 306. The strategic placement of the mineral packet ensures that the exothermic reaction occurs in close proximity to the beverage, facilitating quick and efficient heating.

Towards the upper portion of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302, a balloon-like liquid chamber 310 is positioned, housing a predetermined quantity of water. The liquid chamber 310 serves as a vital component of the self-heating beverage container 300 activation mechanism, providing necessary liquid component for the exothermic reaction to occur. The puncture device 312, mounted on the exterior surface of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302 adjacent to the liquid chamber 310, is responsible for rupturing the liquid chamber 310 upon activation. The puncture device 312 is designed with precision, ensuring reliable operation and consistent performance.

The puncture device 312, once activated, ruptures the liquid chamber 310 to release stored water. The water released from the ruptured liquid chamber 310 mixes with the minerals contained within the mineral packet 308 initiating an exothermic reaction that generates heat. The insulated container bag 304 positioned within the interior space of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302, plays a critical role in facilitating heat retention and distribution. The insulated bag 304 not only accommodates the bag 306 and the mineral packet 308 but also ensures that the heated water is effectively contained and distributed around the bag containing the beverage, resulting in uniform heating of the beverage.

The self-heating beverage container 300 is manufactured by a series of steps aimed at ensuring seamless integration of each component. Initially, a hole is punctured towards the upper half of the back side of the paperboard container 302, by a corrugated star or stamping. The puncturing of hole is followed by insertion of the puncture device 312 into the punctured hole. The puncture device 312 serves as the primary means of activating the self-heating beverage container 300 heating mechanism. The puncture device 312 allows effortless initiation of the heating process.

Subsequently, the insulating bag 304 is cut to size, and the bag 306 is placed inside the insulating bag 304. The bag 306, carefully positioned within the insulating bag 304, is designed to optimize heat distribution and retention. To enhance heat retention, the bag 306 is lined with a reflective foil layer, which effectively traps and reflects heat generated during the heating process. This reflective property ensures that heat is contained within the bag 306, preventing dissipation and maximizing heating efficiency.

Next, the mineral pocket 308 containing exothermic minerals, including magnesium and iron, is attached to the bag 306 within the insulating bag 304. The mineral pocket 308, strategically positioned, serves as the catalyst for the exothermic reaction that generates heat during the heating process. The precise placement of the mineral pocket 308 ensures that the exothermic reaction occurs in close proximity to the beverage, facilitating rapid and efficient heating. The liquid chamber 310 is then attached to the top of the bag 306, serving as the water source for the self-heating beverage container 300. The liquid chamber 310 is calibrated to contain a predetermined quantity of water, provides the necessary liquid component for the exothermic reaction to occur. The integration of the liquid chamber 310 within the self-heating beverage container 300 ensures a streamlined activation process, allowing for quick and efficient initiation of the heating mechanism

The method includes feeding the insulated container bag 304 through the top of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302 with the fitment of the mylar or polypropylene bag 306 fitting within an opening at the top of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302 to form a drinking neck. The method includes gluing the bottom of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302 shut. The method includes filling the bag 306 with a beverage and vacuum sealing the bag, and pressing and sealing the fitment on top of the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 302.

The steps ensures that the components remain securely in place during transportation and use, minimizing the risk of damage or malfunction. With the manufacturing complete, the self-heating beverage container 300 is transported to a filling facility, where the bag 306 is filled with a beverage and vacuum-sealed. This final step in the manufacturing process ensures that the self-heating beverage container 300 is ready for use, allowing for immediate access to hot beverages on the go.

The self-heating beverage container 300 and method of manufacturing the self-heating beverage container 300 represent a significant advancement in the field of portable hot beverage solutions. By combining innovative design principles with streamlined manufacturing techniques, this invention offers a user-friendly, efficient, and economically viable solution for producing single-serve hot beverages on the go.

FIG. 5A illustrates a front view of internal components of the self-heating beverage container 500. FIG. 5B illustrates a side view of internal components of the self-heating beverage container 500. The self-heating beverage container 500 includes the bag 506, the mineral pocket 508, the liquid chamber 510, the lid 514, and the fitment 516. In FIG. 5A, the fitment 516 is highlighted. The fitment 516 is designed to cover the open end of the mylar bag 506, forming the neck of the self-heating beverage container 500. This neck structure is crucial as it provides the opening through which the user can access the beverage. The fitment 516 also accommodates the lid 514, ensuring that self-heating beverage container 500 can be securely closed. The bag 506 is situated inside the container and is meant to hold the beverage.

In FIG. 5B, the mineral pocket 508 is positioned adjacent to the mylar bag 506. This pocket contains the heating minerals, such as magnesium and iron, which react with water to generate heat. The liquid chamber 510 is located above the mineral pocket 508 and contains the water necessary for the heating reaction. When the user presses the puncture device, the sharp element within it moves beyond its casing to puncture the liquid chamber 510. This action releases the water, which then reacts with the minerals in the mineral pocket 508, producing heat. The heat generated is conducted to the bag 506, warming the beverage inside. The fitment 516 and lid 514 ensure that the beverage remains secure and that the container is easy to handle.

FIG. 6A illustrates a front view of a paperboard assembly. FIG. 6B illustrates a perspective view of the paperboard assembly. The paperboard assembly 600 includes a corrugated paperboard sleeving 602, which defines an interior space designed to house the various elements of the self-heating beverage container. The corrugated paperboard sleeving 602 provides the necessary rigidity and insulation to support and protect the internal components. Covering the open end of the corrugated paperboard sleeving 602 is a cap 618. The cap 618 serves multiple purposes, including sealing the container to prevent any leakage of the beverage or heating elements, as well as providing an additional layer of insulation and protection. The cap 618 ensures that the contents remain secure during transportation and storage.

FIG. 7A illustrates unpressed state of the puncture device 700 of the self-heating beverage container. FIG. 7B illustrates pressed state of puncture device 700 of the self-heating beverage container. FIG. 7C illustrates the sharp element 710 and the casing 702 of the puncture device 700 of the self-heating beverage container. The puncture device 700 includes the plastic casing 702, a push button 704 and the sharp element 710. The plastic casing 702 includes the push button 704 positioned to enable a user-friendly activation of the puncture device 700. The push button 704 allows individuals to initiate the heating process with a single hand motion, enhancing the overall user experience and convenience. When a user applies pressure on the push button 704, the sharp element 710 of the puncture device 312 is activated and it punctures the liquid chamber.

FIG. 8A illustrates a front view of the self-heating beverage container 800. FIG. 8B illustrates a side view of the self-heating beverage container 800. The self-heating beverage container 800, as shown in FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B, comprises the corrugated paperboard sleeving 802 for structural integrity, the puncture device 812 for initiating the heating process, the lid 814 for sealing and accessing the container, and the fitment 816 for securing the internal bag and receiving the lid. These components work in unison to deliver a convenient, effective, and safe self-heating beverage solution. The self-heating beverage container 800 comprises the paperboard carton or corrugated paperboard sleeving 802. This sleeving forms the main body of the container, providing both rigidity and insulation. The corrugated nature of the paperboard offers enhanced strength, protecting the internal components from external impacts and maintaining the container's shape under various conditions.

Integrated into the design is the puncture device 812. This device is crucial for initiating the heating process. It is strategically placed within the container, and upon activation, it punctures the internal water chamber, allowing the water to mix with the minerals to generate heat. The placement and design of the puncture device ensure that it can be easily activated without compromising the safety and integrity of the self-heating beverage container 800. The lid 814 is another key component of the self-heating beverage container 800. It covers the open end of the fitment 816, securing the contents and providing an airtight seal. The lid is designed to be easily removable, allowing convenient access to the beverage once it has been heated. The fitment 816, positioned at the top of the container, plays a dual role. Firstly, it covers the open end of the internal bag, forming the neck of the self-heating beverage container. Secondly, it is designed to receive the lid 814, ensuring a secure and snug fit. The fitment provides a structured opening for drinking, enhancing the user experience.

A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the disclosure. Further, there are other components also present in the substation communication network, however, these are not presented in the description to focus on the main features of the invention.

Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter. It is therefore intended that the scope of the disclosure be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based here on. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present disclosure are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the disclosure, which is set forth in the following claims.

While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims.