EP4714420A1

EP4714420A1 - A multi-functional bottle

Info

Publication number: EP4714420A1
Application number: EP24203332.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Faezeh MONJI
Original assignee: Esla White Labs GmbH
Current assignee: Esla White Labs GmbH
Priority date: 2024-09-20
Filing date: 2024-09-27
Publication date: 2026-03-25

Abstract

A multi-functional bottle for delivering medicine and supplements, comprising: a first container, wherein the first container is configured to store a first liquid, the first liquid comprises one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution; a second container, wherein the second container is configured to store a first substance, the first substance comprises one or more tablet, capsule, and softgel; a first outlet, wherein the first outlet is configured to deliver the first liquid; and a second outlet, wherein the second outlet is configured to deliver the first substance one unit at a time.

Description

BACKGROUND

In today's fast-paced world, consumers are increasingly seeking products that offer convenience, multifunctionality, and smart features. The traditional water bottle, while effective at fulfilling its basic purpose of holding and dispensing liquids, often falls short of meeting the evolving needs of modern users. These needs include not only hydration but also health monitoring, customization, and ease of use in various scenarios.
Furthermore, with the growing awareness of health and wellness, there is a heightened demand for products that can help users manage their daily intake of various substances, such as vitamins, supplements, and medications.
Existing solutions in the market cannot satisfy all of these needs. This is particularly inconvenient for users, especially elderly users who are prone to forgetting things, which creates additional hassle in their daily routines, as well as potential health risks if intake of important medication is forgotten.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect, a multi-functional bottle for delivering medicine and supplements includes a first container, a second container, a first outlet and a second outlet. The first container is configured to store a first liquid. The first liquid includes one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. The second container is configured to store a first substance. The first substance includes one or more tablet, capsule, and softgel. The first outlet is configured to deliver the first liquid. The second outlet is configured to deliver the first substance one unit at a time.
The multi-functional bottle can deliver different forms of medicine of supplements efficiently. In addition to the basic functionality of drinking beverage as in conventional bottles, the bottle can provide solid-form medicine and supplements, e.g., tablets and capsules. As an example, a user may need to take one capsule or one tablet from the second container. And in this case, the user may need to drink beverage from the first container.
The first container is configured to store the first liquid. Thus, the first container may include an opening to fill or discharge the first liquid. In an example, the opening of the first container may be the first outlet of the bottle. In another example, the bottle may include the first outlet, and the first container may further include an inner opening which is connected with the first outlet to deliver the first liquid to the user. The first liquid includes but is not limited to one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. In some embodiments, the first container can be provided with a straw so that the user can suck the first liquid with the straw.
The second container may be configured to store the first substance in a row. The first substance may include substances in the form of capsules, tablets, softgels or the like as they are solid and delivered in units. In some embodiments, the second container may be a cartridge for tablets, capsules, softgels or the like. After delivering one unit of the first substance, the delivered unit of the first substance is accessible for the user via the second outlet (e.g., a chamber). Because the capsules, tablets or the like are delivered in units, the second outlet can deliver the capsules or tablets one unit at a time to facilitate the user. The second container may include an opening to fill or discharge the first substance. In an example, the opening of the second container may be the second outlet of the bottle. In another example, the bottle may include the second outlet, and the second container may further include an inner opening which is connected to the second outlet.
In an implementation of the first aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include an actuation mechanism, an elastic mechanism for the second container. The actuation mechanism may include an actuator. After triggering the actuation mechanism, the actuator can move away to create a vacant space, allowing the elastic mechanism to push one unit of the first substance into the vacant space, and the actuator can move the one unit of the first substance to be accessible via the second outlet.
The actuation mechanism and the elastic mechanism are capable of taking one unit of the first substance (e.g., capsules or tablets) once at a time and delivering it to the second outlet for consumption. The actuation mechanism can be trigged automatically or manually. The elastic mechanism is able to move the first substance within the second container. In some embodiments, the elastic mechanism may include a spring. In an example, the elastic mechanism can be mounted between the bottom of the second container and the last unit of the first substance. The bottom of the second container may be movable. For example, the bottom of the second container may include a moving piston so that the spring can drive the moving piston to push the first substance upwards. In another example, the elastic mechanism can be mounted between the bottom of the bottle and the bottom of the second container. The spring pushes the first substance (e.g., capsules or tablets) upwards. For example, the tablets may be located in a row in the second container (e.g., a cartridge) such that after the first unit of the first substance is consumed, the second one can be pushed to the position of the previous unit in the second container. The actuation mechanism is able to move the first substance to be accessible via the second outlet. In some embodiments, the actuator may be a linear actuator with a moving arm. The moving arm can be driven by the linear actuator to move along a chamber above the first unit of the first substance. The chamber may be a pathway connecting the first substance and the second outlet. After triggering the actuation mechanism, the linear actuator can pull back the moving arm, creating the vacant space in the chamber. Thus, the elastic mechanism can push one unit (e.g., a tablet or a capsule) of the first substance into the vacant space. Afterwards, the linear actuator can push the moving arm along the chamber so that the tablet or capsule can be pushed to the second outlet.
In an implementation of the first aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a plurality of second containers arranged around the actuation mechanism. The actuation mechanism may be provided with a shifter. The shifter may be configured to move the plurality of second containers to make one of the plurality of second containers facing the actuator.
The plurality of second containers is capable of storing different kinds of the first substance. For example, different kinds of the first substance may be various medicines. After determining the right medicine, the shifter can move the plurality of second containers so that the one storing the right medicine faces the actuator to facilitate the user to take the right medicine. In some embodiments, the plurality of second containers can be mounted on a ring around the actuation mechanism. In some embodiments, the plurality of second containers may be provided with one or more identifiers which can be recognized by one or more identify units included in the bottle. Thus, the required second container can be rotated by the shifter to face the actuator.
In an implementation of the first aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a third container. The third container may be configured to store a second substance. The second substance includes one or more of concentrate, drop, powder, emulsion, syrup, and suspension. The first outlet may be configured to deliver the second substance. the first container and the third container may be connected via a fluid passageway such that when the third container discharges a part of the second substance, the first liquid can flush the part of the second substance.
The second substance may be medicine or supplements in liquid, semi-liquid, powder form to be applied in small dosage. In some embodiments, the third container may look like a syringe with or without the handle. A linear actuator may move a moving arm connected to the handle that pushes the moving piston at the bottom of the syringe. As a result, a part of the second substance in the syringe can come out to the fluid passageway. The fluid passageway can be achieved by a tube connecting the third container and the first container. In some embodiments, the third container may be a cartridge or a tube. The third container can discharge the second substance via a hole of the cartridge or the tube. In this case, the hole can be in direct contact with the first liquid. Thus, the fluid passageway can be achieved by the hole. The hole can open at the right time to discharge the second substance.
In an implementation of the first aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a fourth container. The fourth container may be configured to store a second liquid. The second liquid may include one or more of syrup, oral solution, suspension, and emulsion. The first outlet may be configured to deliver the second liquid.
The fourth container may contain medicine or supplements such as syrups. In some embodiments, a tube can be inserted inside the inside the fourth container to the liquid to facilitate delivering the second liquid.
In some embodiments, the respective flow of any of the first container, the third container and the fourth container can be controlled by one or more valves. The one or more valves can be mounted near the first outlet. In an example, the valve of the first container can control the flow of the first beverage. By closing the valve of the first container, the user can drink the medicine or supplements from the other containers. In another example, after the third container discharges the second substance into the tube between the first container and the third container, the corresponding valve of the first container can open while the others remain closed, in order to divert the first liquid to the tube containing the second substance. In yet another example, the corresponding valve of the fourth container can open while the others remain closed in order to divert the second liquid to the user.
In an implementation of the first aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a sensor unit. The sensor unit may be configured to perform one or more following functions: flow measurement, content measurement, temperature measurement, orientation measurement.
The sensor unit may include a plurality of sensors. The sensors can be attached to the containers and/or the bottle. In some embodiments, sensors may be installed to measure the exact amount that has been delivered. For example, a sensor (also can be a switch) can detect each tablet is in second outlet (e.g., a chamber). The sensor or the switch can be mounted in the second outlet. The sensor or switch can detect when each unit of the first substance (e.g., a tablet) is in the second outlet. An example could be a senor or switch that gets pressed by one unit of the first substance (e.g., the first substance) in the second outlet and sends signal at the presence of the tablet in the second outlet. This signal can be used in order to count the number of tablets or detect when the second container is empty since the moving arm itself cannot trigger the sensor or the switch. When the second outlet is empty, the sensor/switch can not be triggered, and therefore the count is zero. Each time that a tablet appears in the second outlet, the sensor or the switch can get triggered and count 1 or add 1 to the total counted number. Other counting methods can be used to determine how many units of the first substance are consumed or whether the second container is empty. In an example, an additional sensor may sense the position of the moving piston at the bottom of the second container or the extension of the spring to measure the amount of the remaining tablets/capsules in the second container.
In some embodiments, for the third container, a sensor can detect the position of the moving piston or the moving arm of the third container to measure the amount of dispensed second substance (e.g., medicine or supplement) and measure the remaining second substance. In some embodiments, a flow sensor for the third container can be used to ensure the complete delivery of discharged part of the second substance such that the discharged part is not let inside the bottle. In some embodiments, a flow sensor for the fourth container can be used to measure the amount of the second liquid delivered. In some embodiments, a flow sensor for the first container can be used to measure how much the user drinks. When the first container is provided with a straw, the straw can be equipped with the flow sensor. In some embodiments, the first container and/or the fourth container may be provided with one or more sensors to detect the remaining liquid.
In some embodiments, different sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer) can be used to know the orientation of the bottle and understand the behaviour of the user. In an example, the sensors can detect whether the bottom of the bottle is held upside, whether the user is drinking from the bottle or holding the bottle, whether the bottle is sitting somewhere, or whether the bottle falls. The orientation information can further be used in a software to improve performance and user experience. For example, if the bottle is sitting somewhere, the bottle may not release its content (e.g., a tablet) but wait for the user to pick up the bottle and then release its content. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor can be used to warn user if the temperature exceeds the recommended temperature for keeping its contents.
In an implementation of the first aspect, any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container may be replaceable. In an example, the bottle may further include a housing. The housing may be provided with compartments for inserting any container. In another example, containers may be designed with a detachable connection. The detachable connection may include but not limited to a snap-fit connection, a quick-release mechanism, a magnetic connection, a latch mechanism or a slide-fit connection.
In an implementation of the first aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include one or more identify units, one or more identifiers on any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container. the one or more identifiers may include identify information of the respective container, the one or more identify units may be configured to recognize the one or more identifiers.
The container may have identifiers such as barcode, RFID, or an electronic chip. And the smart bottle may be equipped with the associated identify unit (e.g., a reader) to identify the container and read important information such as the content of the container automatically instead of entering this information manually for example via the application. This may not only make it faster and simpler to install new container but also reduces the risk of mistakes while manually identifying the cartridges or containers. The identify information maybe the manufacture ID, expiration date, and information to prove the cartridge is authentic and not counterfeit etc. With such identify information, the bottle may make sure that expired medicine or supplements are not consumed and detect counterfeit cartridges and containers. This identification may happen whenever it is needed. For example, identification can be performed after a bottle is reopened or dropped to recheck for any changes.
In an implementation of the first aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a communication unit configured to connect to a terminal and/or a server; and/or a reminder unit configured to emit an alert sound or illuminate a light; and/or a security unit configured to identify a user; and/or an interaction unit configured to facilitate user interactions with the multi-functional bottle; and/or an energy unit configured to supply energy to the multi-functional bottle.
In some embodiments, the bottle can connect to a terminal and/or a server via the communication unit. The terminal may include but not limited to a mobile application and other smart devices, e.g., smart watches, to track and monitor consumption, etc. For example, the bottle may connect to the Internet or device such as mobile device (e.g., mobile phone) and smart watch. The application may be compatible with the bottle to provide means for: defining the content of containers (e.g., cartridges) and their appropriate dosage and the proper schedule; saving data and recording the taken dosage of the substance and liquid (e.g., medicine and beverage) as well as when they are taken or other related information; reminding the user if a dose is forgotten on mobile device, smart watch or on the bottle itself; setting up the bottle including but not limited to setting up the date and time, or setting up the features to identify the users; entering the instructions and prescriptions to make sure the right container (e.g., cartridge) are installed, and detect if any cartridge containing the prescribed medicine is missing; warning if a cartridge is expired or close to being expired; warning if "toxic" dosage of the medicine is consumed/is about to get consumed; sending reminder or some other form of information to the user by connecting to smart watch. The server may be a cloud server. In some embodiments, the terminal or the server can analyze the user's data to provide health suggestions.
In some embodiments, the reminder unit of the bottle can emit an alert sound or illuminate a light to remind the user. In an example, the bottle can remind the user to take their medicine or supplements at the scheduled time. In another example, the bottle can also remind the user if a dose is forgotten. In yet another example, the bottle is informed how much water needs to be taken after one specific medicine and it reminds the user to drink water, measures the amount user drinks and informs the user if the user drinks enough water or less.
In some embodiments, the security unit of the bottle can identify the correct user. In an example, the security unit may be a fingerprint scanner. The fingerprint scanner can identify the user and make sure that not anyone except the correct user takes the medicine or supplement unintentionally. In another example, the security unit may be unlock pattern or password. The bottle may have a touchpad and ask for a code, password or pattern to identify the correct user to unlock. Alternatively, the security unit may be a signal receiver. The bottle is connected to the user phone or smart watch and the user needs to input a pattern or a password, etc. After identification happens on these devices, a signal is sent to the bottle to unlock. In yet another example, the security unit may be a parental lock mechanism to restrict access to specific content or hot water for children or other groups of people.
In some embodiments, the interaction unit of the bottle is able to facilitate user interactions with the multi-functional bottle. In an example, the bottle may have a user interface to receive inputs or display or indicate information. The user can select the content of which container and in which quantity to be dispensed. In another example, the interaction unit can display or inform the user and output messages.
In some embodiments, the energy unit of the bottle can supply energy to the multi-functional bottle. In an example, the energy unit may include a rechargeable battery, which enables long-term use and easy recharging. In another example, the energy unit may include a disposable battery, providing sufficient energy for several months of operation without the need for recharging. In yet another example, the energy unit may include solar cells, allowing it to recharge in sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
In a second aspect, a multi-functional bottle for delivering medicine and supplements includes a first container, a third container, and a first outlet. The first container is configured to store a first liquid, the first liquid includes one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. The third container is configured to store a second substance, the second substance includes one or more of concentrate, drop, powder, emulsion, syrup, and suspension. The first outlet is configured to deliver the first liquid and/or the second substance. The first container and the third container are connected via a fluid passageway such that when the third container discharges a part of the second substance, the first liquid flushes the part of the second substance.
The multi-functional bottle can deliver different forms of medicine or supplements efficiently. In addition to the basic functionality of drinking beverage in conventional bottles, the bottle can provide liquid-form medicine and supplements in small dosage such as drops. As an example, the bottle can deliver the small dosage of medicine and supplements dispersed in the beverage to the user.
The first container is configured to store the first liquid. Thus, the first container may include an opening to fill or discharge the first liquid. In an example, the opening of the first container may be the first outlet of the bottle. In another example, the bottle may include the first outlet, and the first container may further include an inner opening which is connected with the first outlet to deliver the first liquid to the user. The first liquid includes but not limited to one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. In some embodiments, the first container can be provided with a straw so that the user can suck the first liquid with the straw.
The second substance may be medicine or supplements in liquid, semi-liquid, powder form to be applied in small dosage. In some embodiments, the third container may look like a syringe with or without the handle. A linear actuator may move a moving arm connected to the handle that pushes the moving piston at the bottom of the syringe. As a result, a part of the second substance in the syringe can come out to the fluid passageway. The fluid passageway can be achieved by a tube connecting the third container and the first container. In some embodiments, the third container may be a cartridge or a tube. The third container can discharge the second substance via a hole of the cartridge or the tube. In this case, the hole can be in direct contact with the first liquid. Thus, the fluid passageway can be achieved by the hole. The user can select to close or open the hole to discharge the second substance.
In an implementation of the second aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a second container, and a second outlet. The second container may be configured to store a first substance, the first substance may include one or more tablet, capsule, and softgel. The second outlet may be configured to deliver the first substance.
The second container may be configured to store the first substance in a row. The first substance may include substances in the form of capsules, tablets, softgels or the like as they are solid and delivered in units. In some embodiments, the second container may be a cartridge for tablets, capsules, softgels or the like. After delivering one unit of the first substance, the delivered unit of the first substance is accessible for the user via the second outlet (e.g., a chamber). Because the capsules, tablets or the like are delivered in units, the second outlet can deliver the capsules or tablets one unit at a time to facilitate the user. The second container may include an opening to fill or discharge the first substance. In an example, the opening of the second container may be the second outlet of the bottle. In another example, the bottle may include the second outlet, and the second container may further include an inner opening which is connected to the second outlet.
In an implementation of the second aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include an actuation mechanism and an elastic mechanism for the second container. The actuation mechanism may include an actuator. After triggering the actuation mechanism, the actuator can move away to create a vacant space, allowing the elastic mechanism to push one unit of the first substance into the vacant space, and the actuator can move the one unit of the first substance to be accessible via the second outlet.
The actuation mechanism and the elastic mechanism are capable of taking one unit of the first substance (e.g., capsules or tablets) one at a time and delivering it to the second outlet for consumption. The actuation mechanism can be trigged automatically or manually. The elastic mechanism is able to move the first substance within the second container. In some embodiments, the elastic mechanism may include a spring. In an example, the elastic mechanism can be mounted between the bottom of the second container and the last unit of the first substance. The bottom of the second container may be movable. For example, the bottom of the second container may include a moving piston so that the spring can drive the moving piston to push the first substance upwards. In another example, the elastic mechanism can be mounted between the bottom of the bottle and the bottom of the second container. The spring pushes the first substance (e.g., capsules or tablets) upwards. For example, the tablets may be located in a row in the second container (e.g., a cartridge) such that after the first unit of the first substance is consumed, the second one can be pushed to the position of the previous unit in the second container. The actuation mechanism is able to move the first substance to be accessible via the second outlet. In some embodiments, the actuator may be a linear actuator with a moving arm. The moving arm can be driven by the linear actuator to move along a chamber above the first unit of the first substance. The chamber may be a pathway connecting the first substance and the second outlet. After triggering the actuation mechanism, the linear actuator can pull back the moving arm, creating the vacant space in the chamber. Thus, the elastic mechanism can push one unit (e.g., a tablet or a capsule) of the first substance into the vacant space. Afterwards, the linear actuator can push the moving arm along the chamber so that the tablet or capsule can be pushed to the second outlet.
In an implementation of the second aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a plurality of second containers arranged around the actuation mechanism. The actuation mechanism can be provided with a shifter. The shifter may be configured to move the plurality of second containers to make one of the plurality of second containers facing the actuator.
The plurality of second containers is capable of storing different kinds of the first substance. For example, different kinds of the first substance may be various medicines. After determining the right medicine, the shifter can move the plurality of second containers so that the one storing the right medicine faces the actuator to facilitate the user to take the right medicine. In some embodiments, the plurality of second containers can be mounted on a ring around the actuation mechanism.
In an implementation of the second aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a fourth container. The fourth container may be configured to store a second liquid, the second liquid may include one or more of syrup, oral solution, suspension, and emulsion. The first outlet may be configured to deliver the second liquid.
The fourth container may contain medicine or supplements such as syrups. In some embodiments, a tube can be inserted inside the inside the fourth container to the liquid to facilitate delivering the second liquid.
In some embodiments, the respective flow of any of the first container, the third container and the fourth container can be controlled by one or more valves. The one or more valves can be mounted near the first outlet. In an example, the valve of the first container can control the flow of the first beverage. By closing the valve of the first container, the user can drink the medicine or supplements from the other containers. In another example, after the third container discharges the second substance into the tube between the first container and the third container, the corresponding valve of the first container can open while the others remain closed, in order to divert the first liquid to the tube containing the second substance. In yet another example, the corresponding valve of the fourth container can open while the others remain closed in order to divert the second liquid to the user.
In an implementation of the second aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a sensor unit, wherein the sensor unit may be configured to perform one or more following functions: flow measurement, content measurement, temperature measurement, orientation measurement.
The sensor unit may include a plurality of sensors. The sensors can be attached to the containers and/or the bottle. In some embodiments, sensors may be installed to measure the exact amount that has been delivered. For example, a sensor (also can be a switch) can detect each tablet is in second outlet (e.g., a chamber). The sensor or the switch can be mounted in the second outlet. The sensor or switch can detect when each unit of the first substance (e.g., a tablet) is in the second outlet. An example could be a senor or switch that gets pressed by one unit of the first substance (e.g., the first substance) in the second outlet and sends signal at the presence of the tablet in the second outlet. This signal can be used in order to count the number of tablets or detect when the second container is empty since the moving arm itself cannot trigger the sensor or the switch. When the second outlet is empty, the sensor/switch can not be triggered, and therefore the count is zero. Each time that a tablet appears in the second outlet, the sensor or the switch can get triggered and count 1 or add 1 to the total counted number. Other counting methods can be used to determine how many units of the first substance are consumed or whether the second container is empty. In an example, an additional sensor may sense the position of the moving piston at the bottom of the second container or the extension of the spring to measure the amount of the remaining tablets/capsules in the second container.
In some embodiments, for the third container, a sensor can detect the position of the moving piston or the moving arm of the third container to measure the amount of dispensed second substance (e.g., medicine or supplement) and measure the remaining second substance. In some embodiments, a flow sensor for the third container can be used to ensure the complete delivery of discharged part of the second substance such that the discharged part is not left inside the bottle. In some embodiments, a flow sensor for the fourth container can be used to measure the amount of the second liquid delivered. In some embodiments, a flow sensor for the first container can be used to measure how much the user drinks. When the first container is provided with a straw, the straw can be equipped with the flow sensor. In some embodiments, the first container and/or the fourth container may be provided with one or more sensors to detect the remaining liquid.
In some embodiments, different sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer) can be used to know the orientation of the bottle and understand the behaviour of the user. In an example, the sensors can detect whether the bottom of the bottle is held upside, whether the user is drinking from the bottle or holding the bottle, whether the bottle is sitting somewhere, or whether the bottle falls. The orientation information can further be used in a software to improve performance and user experience. For example, if the bottle is sitting somewhere, the bottle may not release its content (e.g., a tablet) but wait for the user to pick up the bottle and then release its content. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor can be used to warn user if the temperature exceeds the recommended temperature for keeping its contents.
In an implementation of the second aspect, any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container may be replaceable. In an example, the bottle may further include a housing. The housing may be provided with compartments for inserting any container. In another example, containers may be designed with a detachable connection. The detachable connection may include but not limited to a snap-fit connection, a quick-release mechanism, a magnetic connection, a latch mechanism or a slide-fit connection.
In an implementation of the second aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include one or more identify units and one or more identifiers on any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container. The one or more identifiers may include identify information of the respective container. The one or more identify units may be configured to recognize the one or more identifiers.
The container may have identifiers such as barcode, RFID, or an electronic chip. And the smart bottle may be equipped with the associated identify unit (e.g., a reader) to identify the container and read important information such as the content of the container automatically instead of entering this information manually for example via the application. This may not only make it faster and simpler to install new container but also reduces the risk of mistakes while manually identifying the cartridges or containers. The identify information maybe the manufacture ID, expiration date, and information to prove the cartridge is authentic and not counterfeit etc. With such identify information, the bottle may make sure that expired medicine or supplements are not consumed and detect counterfeit cartridges and containers. This identification may happen whenever it is needed. For example, identification can be performed after a bottle is reopened or dropped to recheck for any changes.
In an implementation of the second aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a communication unit configured to connect to a terminal and/or a server; and/or a reminder unit configured to emit an alert sound or illuminate a light; and/or a security unit configured to identify a user; and/or an interaction unit configured to facilitate user interactions with the multi-functional bottle; and/or an energy unit configured to supply energy to the multi-functional bottle.
In some embodiments, the bottle can connect to a terminal and/or a server via the communication unit. The terminal may include but not limited to a mobile application and other smart devices, e.g., smart watches, to track and monitor consumption, etc. For example, the bottle may connect to the Internet or device such as mobile device (e.g., mobile phone) and smart watch. The application may be compatible with the bottle to provide means for: defining the content of containers (e.g., cartridges) and their appropriate dosage and the proper schedule; saving data and recording the taken dosage of the substance and liquid (e.g., medicine and beverage) as well as when they are taken or other related information; reminding the user if a dose is forgotten on mobile device, smart watch or on the bottle itself; setting up the bottle including but not limited to setting up the date and time, or setting up the features to identify the users; entering the prescriptions to make sure the right container (e.g., cartridge) are installed, and detect if any is missing; warning if a cartridge is expired or close to being expired; warning if "toxic" dosage of the medicine is consumed/is about to get consumed; sending reminder or some other form of information to the user by connecting to smart watch. The server may be a cloud server. In some embodiments, the terminal or the server can analyze the user's data to provide health suggestions.
In some embodiments, the reminder unit of the bottle can emit an alert sound or illuminate a light to remind the user. In an example, the bottle can remind the user to take their medicine or supplements as the scheduled time. In another example, the bottle can also remind the user if a dose is forgotten. In yet another example, the bottle is informed how much water needs to be taken after one specific medicine and it reminds the user to drink water, measures the amount user drinks and informs the user if the user drinks enough water or less.
In some embodiments, the security unit of the bottle can identify the correct user. In an example, the security unit may be a fingerprint scanner. The fingerprint scanner can identify the user and make sure that not anyone except the correct user takes the medicine or supplement unintentionally. In another example, the security unit may be unlock pattern or password. The bottle may have a touchpad and ask for a code, password or pattern to identify the correct user to unlock. Alternatively, the security unit may be a signal receiver. The bottle is connected to the user phone or smart watch and the user needs to input a pattern or a password, etc. After identification happens on these devices, a signal is sent to the bottle to unlock. In yet another example, the security unit may be a parental lock mechanism to restrict access to specific content or hot water for children or other groups of people.
In some embodiments, the interaction unit of the bottle is able to facilitate user interactions with the multi-functional bottle. In an example, the bottle may have a user interface to receive inputs or display or indicate information. The user can select the content of which container and in which quantity to be dispensed. In another example, the interaction unit can display or inform the user and output messages.
In some embodiments, the energy unit of the bottle can supply energy to the multi-functional bottle. In an example, the energy unit may include a rechargeable battery, which enables long-term use and easy recharging. In another example, the energy unit may include a disposable battery, providing sufficient energy for several months of operation without the need for recharging. In yet another example, the energy unit may include solar cells, allowing it to recharge in sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
In a third aspect, a multi-functional bottle for delivering medicine and supplements includes a first container, a fourth container and a first outlet. The first container is configured to store a first liquid, the first liquid includes one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. The fourth container is configured to store a second liquid, the second liquid includes one or more of syrup, oral solution, suspension, and emulsion. The first outlet is configured to deliver the first liquid and/or the second liquid.
The multi-functional bottle can deliver different forms of medicine of supplements efficiently. In addition to the basic functionality of drinking beverage in conventional bottles, the bottle can provide liquid/form medicine and supplements with the correct dosage, e.g., syrups.
The first container is configured to store the first liquid. Thus, the first container may include an opening to fill or discharge the first liquid. In an example, the opening of the first container may be the first outlet of the bottle. In another example, the bottle may include the first outlet, and the first container may further include an inner opening which is connected with the first outlet to deliver the first liquid to the user. The first liquid includes but not limited to one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. In some embodiments, the first container can be provided with a straw so that the user can suck the first liquid with the straw.
The fourth container may contain medicine or supplements such as syrups. In some embodiments, a tube can be inserted inside the inside the fourth container to the liquid to facilitate delivering the second liquid. In an example, the straw of the first container and the tube of the fourth container can be connected to the first outlet so that the user can drink both the first liquid and the second liquid via the first outlet.
In some embodiments, the respective flow of any of the first container, the third container and the fourth container can be controlled by one or more valves. The one or more valves can be mounted near the first outlet. The one or more valves can be controlled so that the contents of different containers cannot mix accidently. For example, the beverage of the first container cannot enter to the fourth container storing syrup. In an example, the valve of the first container can control the flow of the first beverage. By closing the valve of the first container, the user can drink the medicine or supplements from the other containers. In another example, after the third container discharges the second substance into the tube between the first container and the third container, the corresponding valve of the first container can open while the others remain closed, in order to divert the first liquid to the tube containing the second substance. In yet another example, the corresponding valve of the fourth container can open while the others remain closed in order to divert the second liquid to the user.
In an implementation of the third aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a second container and a second outlet. The second container is configured to store a first substance, the first substance includes one or more tablet, capsule, and softgel. The second outlet is configured to deliver the first substance.
The second container may be configured to store the first substance in a row. The first substance may include substances in the form of capsules, tablets, softgels or the like as they are solid and delivered in units. In some embodiments, the second container may be a cartridge for tablets, capsules, softgels or the like. After delivering one unit of the first substance, the delivered unit of the first substance is accessible for the user via the second outlet (e.g., a chamber). Because the capsules, tablets or the like are delivered in units, the second outlet can deliver the capsules or tablets one unit at a time to facilitate the user. The second container may include an opening to fill or discharge the first substance. In an example, the opening of the second container may be the second outlet of the bottle. In another example, the bottle may include the second outlet, and the second container may further include an inner opening which is connected to the second outlet.
In an implementation of the third aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include an actuation mechanism and an elastic mechanism for the second container. The actuation mechanism may include an actuator. After triggering the actuation mechanism, the actuator can move away to create a vacant space, allowing the elastic mechanism to push one unit of the first substance into the vacant space, and the actuator can move the one unit of the first substance to be accessible via the second outlet.
The actuation mechanism and the elastic mechanism are capable of taking one unit of the first substance (e.g., capsules or tablets) once at a time and delivering it to the second outlet for consumption. The actuation mechanism can be trigged automatically or manually. The elastic mechanism is able to move the first substance within the second container. In some embodiments, the elastic mechanism may include a spring. In an example, the elastic mechanism can be mounted between the bottom of the second container and the last unit of the first substance. The bottom of the second container may be movable. For example, the bottom of the second container may include a moving piston so that the spring can drive the moving piston to push the first substance upwards. In another example, the elastic mechanism can be mounted between the bottom of the bottle and the bottom of the second container. The spring pushes the first substance (e.g., capsules or tablets) upwards. For example, the tablets may be located in a row in the second container (e.g., a cartridge) such that after the first unit of the first substance is consumed, the second one can be pushed to the position of the previous unit in the second container. The actuation mechanism is able to move the first substance to be accessible via the second outlet. In some embodiments, the actuator may be a linear actuator with a moving arm. The moving arm can be driven by the linear actuator to move along a chamber above the first unit of the first substance. The chamber may be a pathway connecting the first substance and the second outlet. After triggering the actuation mechanism, the linear actuator can pull back the moving arm, creating the vacant space in the chamber. Thus, the elastic mechanism can push one unit (e.g., a tablet or a capsule) of the first substance into the vacant space. Afterwards, the linear actuator can push the moving arm along the chamber so that the tablet or capsule can be pushed to the second outlet.
In an implementation of the third aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a plurality of second containers arranged around the actuation mechanism. The actuation mechanism may be provided with a shifter. The shifter may be configured to move the plurality of second containers to make one of the plurality of second containers facing the actuator.
The plurality of second containers is capable of storing different kinds of the first substance. For example, different kinds of the first substance may be various medicines. After determining the right medicine, the shifter can move the plurality of second containers so that the one storing the right medicine faces the actuator to facilitate the user to take the right medicine. In some embodiments, the plurality of second containers can be mounted on a ring around the actuation mechanism.
In an implementation of the third aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a third container. The third container may be configured to store a second substance, the second substance comprises one or more of concentrate, drop, powder, emulsion, syrup, and suspension. The first outlet may be configured to deliver the second substance, and the first container and the third container may be connected via a fluid passageway such that when the third container discharges a part of the second substance, the first liquid flushes the part of the second substance.
The second substance may be medicine or supplements in liquid, semi-liquid, powder form to be applied in small dosage. In some embodiments, the third container may look like a syringe with or without the handle. A linear actuator may move a moving arm connected to the handle that pushes the moving piston at the bottom of the syringe. As a result, a part of the second substance in the syringe can come out to the fluid passageway. The fluid passageway can be achieved by a tube connecting the third container and the first container. In some embodiments, the third container may be a cartridge or a tube. The third container can discharge the second substance via a hole of the cartridge or the tube. In this case, the hole can be in direct contact with the first liquid. Thus, the fluid passageway can be achieved by the hole. The user can select to close or open the hole to discharge the second substance.
In an implementation of the third aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a sensor unit. The sensor unit may be configured to perform one or more following functions: flow measurement, content measurement, temperature measurement, orientation measurement.
The sensor unit may include a plurality of sensors. The sensors can be attached to the containers and/or the bottle. In some embodiments, sensors may be installed to measure the exact amount that has been delivered. For example, a sensor (also can be a switch) can detect each tablet is in second outlet (e.g., a chamber). The sensor or the switch can be mounted in the second outlet. The sensor or switch can detect when each unit of the first substance (e.g., a tablet) is in the second outlet. An example could be a senor or switch that gets pressed by one unit of the first substance (e.g., the first substance) in the second outlet and sends signal at the presence of the tablet in the second outlet. This signal can be used in order to count the number of tablets or detect when the second container is empty since the moving arm itself cannot trigger the sensor or the switch. When the second outlet is empty, the sensor/switch can not be triggered, and therefore the count is zero. Each time that a tablet appears in the second outlet, the sensor or the switch can get triggered and count 1 or add 1 to the total counted number. Other counting methods can be used to determine how many units of the first substance are consumed or whether the second container is empty. In an example, an additional sensor may sense the position of the moving piston at the bottom of the second container or the extension of the spring to measure the amount of the remaining tablets/capsules in the second container.
In some embodiments, for the third container, a sensor can detect the position of the moving piston or the moving arm of the third container to measure the amount of dispensed second substance (e.g., medicine or supplement) and measure the remaining second substance. In some embodiments, a flow sensor for the third container can be used to ensure the complete delivery of discharged part of the second substance such that the discharged part is not let inside the bottle. In some embodiments, a flow sensor for the fourth container can be used to measure the amount of the second liquid delivered. In some embodiments, a flow sensor for the first container can be used to measure how much the user drinks. When the first container is provided with a straw, the straw can be equipped with the flow sensor. In some embodiments, the first container and/or the fourth container may be provided with one or more sensors to detect the remaining liquid.
In some embodiments, different sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer) can be used to know the orientation of the bottle and understand the behaviour of the user. In an example, the sensors can detect whether the bottom of the bottle is held upside, whether the user is drinking from the bottle or holding the bottle, whether the bottle is sitting somewhere, or whether the bottle falls. The orientation information can further be used in a software to improve performance and user experience. For example, if the bottle is sitting somewhere, the bottle may not release its content (e.g., a tablet) but wait for the user to pick up the bottle and then release its content. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor can be used to warn user if the temperature exceeds the recommended temperature for keeping its contents.
In an implementation of the third aspect, any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container is replaceable. In an example, the bottle may further include a housing. The housing may be provided with compartments for inserting any container. In another example, containers may be designed with a detachable connection. The detachable connection may include but not limited to a snap-fit connection, a quick-release mechanism, a magnetic connection, a latch mechanism or a slide-fit connection. The container may connect with other containers directly.
In an implementation of the third aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include one or more identify units and one or more identifiers on any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container. The one or more identifiers may include identify information of the respective container. The one or more identify units may be configured to recognize the one or more identifiers.
The container may have identifiers such as barcode, RFID, or an electronic chip. And the smart bottle may be equipped with the associated identify unit (e.g., a reader) to identify the container and read important information such as the content of the container automatically instead of entering this information manually for example via the application. This may not only make it faster and simpler to install new container but also reduces the risk of mistakes while manually identifying the cartridges or containers. The identify information maybe the manufacture ID, expiration date, and information to prove the cartridge is authentic and not counterfeit etc. With such identify information, the bottle may make sure that expired medicine or supplements are not consumed and detect counterfeit cartridges and containers. This identification may happen whenever it is needed. For example, identification can be performed when the bottle is turned off, after the bottle is reopened or dropped to recheck for any changes. Additionally, the identification can be performed frequently when a cartridge is installed or removed.
In an implementation of the third aspect, the multi-functional bottle may include a communication unit configured to connect to a terminal and/or a server; and/or a reminder unit configured to emit an alert sound or illuminate a light; and/or a security unit configured to identify a user; and/or an interaction unit configured to facilitate user interactions with the multi-functional bottle; and/or an energy unit configured to supply energy to the multi-functional bottle.
In some embodiments, the bottle can connect to a terminal and/or a server via the communication unit. The terminal may include but not limited to a mobile application and other smart devices, e.g., smart watches, to track and monitor consumption, etc. For example, the bottle may connect to the Internet or device such as mobile device (e.g., mobile phone) and smart watch. The application may be compatible with the bottle to provide means for: defining the content of containers (e.g., cartridges) and their appropriate dosage and the proper schedule; saving data and recording the taken dosage of the substance and liquid (e.g., medicine and beverage) as well as when they are taken or other related information; reminding the user if a dose is forgotten on mobile device, smart watch or on the bottle itself; setting up the bottle including but not limited to setting up the date and time, or setting up the features to identify the users; entering the prescriptions to make sure the right container (e.g., cartridge) are installed, and detect if any is missing; warning if a cartridge is expired or close to being expired; warning if "toxic" dosage of the medicine is consumed/is about to get consumed; sending reminder or some other form of information to the user by connecting to smart watch. The server may be a cloud server. In some embodiments, the terminal or the server can analyze the user's data to provide health suggestions.
In some embodiments, the reminder unit of the bottle can emit an alert sound or illuminate a light to remind the user. In an example, the bottle can remind the user to take their medicine or supplements as the scheduled time. In another example, the bottle can also remind the user if a dose is forgotten. In yet another example, the bottle is informed how much water needs to be taken after one specific medicine and it reminds the user to drink water, measures the amount user drinks and informs the user if the user drinks enough water or less.
In some embodiments, the security unit of the bottle can identify the correct user. In an example, the security unit may be a fingerprint scanner. The fingerprint scanner can identify the user and make sure that not anyone except the correct user takes the medicine or supplement unintentionally. In another example, the security unit may be unlock pattern or password. The bottle may have a touchpad and ask for a code, password or pattern to identify the correct user to unlock. Alternatively, the security unit may be a signal receiver. The bottle is connected to the user phone or smart watch and the user needs to input a pattern or a password, etc. After identification happens on these devices, a signal is sent to the bottle to unlock. In yet another example, the security unit may be a parental lock mechanism to restrict access to specific content or hot water for children or other groups of people.
In some embodiments, the interaction unit of the bottle is able to facilitate user interactions with the multi-functional bottle. In an example, the bottle may have a user interface to receive inputs or display or indicate information. The user can select the content of which container and in which quantity to be dispensed. In another example, the interaction unit can display or inform the user and output messages.
In some embodiments, the energy unit of the bottle can supply energy to the multi-functional bottle. In an example, the energy unit may include a rechargeable battery, which enables long-term use and easy recharging. In another example, the energy unit may include a disposable battery, providing sufficient energy for several months of operation without the need for recharging. In yet another example, the energy unit may include solar cells, allowing it to recharge in sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor activities. In some embodiments, the bottle may include an embedded system that controls various functions, such as the opening and closing of valves and the monitoring of energy usage, ensuring efficient operation. The embedded system may process data from sensors and manage the power supply to optimize performance and energy consumption.
These and other features, aspects, and advantages will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description and a review of the associated drawings. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory and do not restrict aspects as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure is further described in terms of exemplary embodiments. These exemplary embodiments are described in detail with reference to the drawings. The drawings are not drawn to scale. These embodiments are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, in which like reference numerals represent similar structures throughout the several views of the drawings, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a multi-functional bottle 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIGs. 2 to 5 are schematic diagrams of four variants of the multi-functional bottle 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of another multi-functional bottle 600 in the form of a pitcher according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of observable medicines in the water according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of one variant of the another multi-functional bottle according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the present disclosure and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments shown but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the claims.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprise," "comprises," and/or "comprising," "include," "includes," and/or "including," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
In order to make the purpose, technical solution, and advantages of the present disclosure clearer, the present disclosure will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the present disclosure.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a multi-functional bottle 100 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The multi-functional bottle 100 may include a first container 110, a second container 120, a third container 130, a fourth container 140, a first outlet 150, a second outlet 160, a housing 170, an actuation mechanism 180, and an elastic mechanism 190.
The first container 110 may store one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. For example, the first container 110 may store beverage 111. The first container 110 may be provided with a tube 112 to facilitate the delivery of the beverage 111. Furthermore, the first container 110 may be provided with a valve 113 to control the flow of the beverage. By closing this valve 113, the user can drink the medicine or supplements from the other containers or cartridges. The tube 112 from the first container 110 may be equipped with a flow sensor 114 to measure how much the user drinks. An additional sensor 115 may detect the remaining beverage 111 in the first container 110.
The second container 120 may store one or more tablet, capsule, and softgel. The second container 120 may be in the form of a cartridge. The actuation mechanism 180 and the elastic mechanism 190 can take one of the tablets once at a time and delivering it to the second outlet 160 for consumption. A spring 191 of the elastic mechanism 190 can push the tablets within the second container 120 upwards. The tablets may be located in-a-row in the second container 120 such that after the first tablet is consumed, the second one can get pushed to the position of the previous tablet in the cartridge. The actuation mechanism 180 may include a linear actuator 181. There is a moving arm 182 that can get pulled by the linear actuator 181. Normally the second outlet 160 is empty. When triggered, the linear actuator 181 can pull back the moving arm 182, creating an empty space on top of the second container 120, for the next tablet. Then the spring 191 can push up the tablet 121 up into the created empty space. Afterwards, the linear actuator 181 can push the moving arm 182, and the tablet 121 in front of the moving arm 182 can get pushed into the second outlet 160.
In some embodiments, a switch/sensor 122 can detect when each tablet is in the second outlet 160. An example could be a switch/sensor 122 that gets pressed by the tablet 121 in the chamber of the second outlet 160 and sends signal at the presence of the tablet 121 in the chamber. The signal can be used in order to count the number of tablets or detect when the second container 120 (e.g., the cartridge) is empty since the moving arm 182 itself cannot trigger the switch/sensor 122. When the chamber of the second outlet 160 is empty, the switch/sensor 122 is not triggered, and therefore the count is zero. Each time that a tablet appears in the chamber, the switch/sensor 122 can get triggered and counts 1/adds 1 to the total counted number. Other counting methods can be used to determine how many tablets are consumed or whether the chamber of the second container is empty. In some embodiments, an additional sensor 124 may sense the position of the moving piston 123 at the bottom of the second container 120 or the extension of the spring 191 to measure the amount of the remaining tablets/capsules in the second container 120.
The third container 130 can contain medicine or supplements in liquid form, semi-liquid, or powder form to be applied in small dosages. For example, the third container may store one or more of concentrate, drop, powder, emulsion, syrup, and suspension. The third container 130 may be a cartridge that looks like a syringe with or without the handle 131. As an example, when the syringe has the handle 131, a linear actuator 132 can move a moving arm 133 connected to the handle 131 that pushes the moving piston 134 at the bottom of the third container 130. As another example, when the syringe does not have the handle 131, the linear actuator 132 can drive the moving arm 133 to push the moving piston 134 directly. As a result, the liquid in the third container can come out to a tube 135. The tube 135 can connect the tube 112 of the first container 110 and the first outlet 150. The corresponding valves 136 and 137 can then open while the others remain closed, in order to divert the beverage to the tube containing the medicine. Specifically, after discharging part of the liquid within the third container 130, the beverage 111 of the first container 110 can flush the part of the liquid via the valve 136. And the user can drink the beverage containing the liquid via the valve 137. A sensor 139 can detect the position of the moving piston 134 or the moving arm 133 to measure the amount of the medicine of supplement dispensed and measure the remaining medicine in the third container 130. A flow sensor 138 may be provided to ensure the complete delivery of the medicine and supplement such that medicine is not let inside the tube.
A fourth container 140 can store medicine or supplements such as one or more of syrup, oral solution, suspension, and emulsion. A tube 141 can be inserted inside the fourth container 140 to the syrup 142 and the corresponding valve 143 can open while the others remain closed in order to divert the medicine (content of the fourth container 140) to the user. A flow sensor 144 can measure the amount of the syrup or liquid delivered. An additional sensor 146 may be provided to detect the remaining syrup 142 in the fourth container 140.
Any of the first container 110, the second container 120, the third container 130 or the fourth container 140 may be replaceable. In an example, the bottle may further include a housing 170. The housing may be provided with compartments for inserting any container. In another example, containers may be designed with a detachable connection. The detachable connection may include but not limited to a snap-fit connection, a quick-release mechanism, a magnetic connection, a latch mechanism or a slide-fit connection. The container may connect with other containers directly.
The multi-functional smart bottle may have any combination of the aforementioned containers and cartridges and may have even multiple of each type of containers and cartridges. For example, a user may only need to drink from the main beverage container as they drink water or beverage with or without added supplements or medicine so that one container is enough. As another example, a user may need to take one capsule and one tablet and in this case they need a container for beverage (refer to the first container) and two cartridges (refer to two second containers) only. The smart bottle is versatile in design and may have a different configuration of cartridges and containers. FIGs. 2 to 5 are schematic diagrams of four variants of the multi-functional bottle according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a combination of the first container 210 and the second container 220. The first container 210 may store one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. The second container 220 may store one or more tablet, capsule, and softgel in a row. The first outlet 250 can deliver the content of the first container 210. The second outlet 260 can deliver the content of the second container 220 one unit at a time.
FIG. 3 illustrates a combination of the first container 310 and the third container 330. The first container 310 can store one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. The third container 330 can store one or more of concentrate, drop, powder, emulsion, syrup, and suspension. The first outlet 350 can deliver the content of the first container 310 and/or the content of the third container. The first container 310 and the third container 330 are connected via a fluid passageway such that when the third container 330 discharges a part of its content, the liquid of the first container 310 flushes the part. In this case, the fluid passageway is achieved by the tube 335 connecting these two containers.
FIG. 4 illustrates a combination of the first container 410 and the fourth container 440. The first container 410 can store one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. The fourth container 440 can store one or more of syrup, oral solution, suspension, and emulsion. The first outlet 450 can deliver the content of the first container 410 and/or the content of the fourth container 440.
FIG. 5 illustrates the bottle with multiple second containers 520-1 to 520-8. They can be mounted on a ring. The actuation mechanism 580 may include a shifter 583. The shifter 583 can move second containers 520-1 to 520-8 to make the needed second container facing the actuator. The needed second container may be the one storing to medicine to be taken. The actuator can drive the moving arm to push the medicine into the first outlet 560. When the medicine is in the chamber of the first outlet 560, the sensor 522 can detect the presence of the medicine. It should be noted that multiple containers can be arranged in other forms rather than ring. No matter how the containers are arranged, the actuation mechanism can change these containers so that right container is in front of the actuation mechanism to dispense the medicine (e.g., tablet) from the selected container. Furthermore, the bottle may include other containers rather than the plurality of second containers.
FIGs. 2 to 5 illustrates four variants of the multi-functional bottle for understanding. However, these figures aim to show the flexibility of the bottle rather than limit the scope of the disclosure. There may be other combinations, such as a combination of the first container, the second container and the third container, multiple third containers or the like. Different combinations can provide the user with various synergistic effects according to the user's needs. Additional components mentioned in the disclosure can be added to bottle to perform multiple functions.
FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of another multi-functional bottle 600 in the form of a pitcher according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The first container 610 can store one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution. The third container 630-1 or 630-2 can store one or more of concentrate, drop, powder, emulsion, syrup, and suspension. The first outlet 650 can deliver the content of the first container 610 and/or the content of the third container 630-1 or 630-2. The first container 610 and the third container 630-1 or 630-2 are connected via a fluid passageway such that when the third container 630-1 or 630-2 discharges a part of its content, the content of the first container 610 flushes the part.
The pitcher 600 may have a housing 670 for one or several tubes 630-1 and/or cartridges 630-2 to dispense their content. The fluid passageway can be achieved by one or more holes 671 in the housing 670. The tubes 630-1 or the cartridges 630-2 can contain different kind of medicines or supplements, e.g., NMN, vitamins etc. The holes 671 can deliver the medicines and supplements. For example, when the user pours water from the first container 610, the contents (e.g., medicines or supplements) of tubes 630-1 or the cartridges 630-2 are dispensed, and the two substances (e.g., water and medicine) are poured into a glass. The pitcher 600 may have a user interface to receive inputs or display or indicate information. The user can select the content of which cartridge or tube and in which quantity to be dispensed. The pitcher 600 can track the cartridges and consumption dose by applying sensors. And the pitcher 600 can connect to a mobile application or Internet.
After pouring into a glass, the user may observe fancy observable medicines or supplements in the water. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of observable medicines in the water according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Medicines or supplements can have insoluble or slow soluble formular, exhibiting extreme show-off as well as soluble formular. Also, medicine and supplements can have different colours and taste. The glass 710 shows the case with two slowly soluble different components. The glass 720 and 730 shows the case with one component but different colors/taste. The glass 740 shows the case with all components. The glass 750 shows the case with two insoluble components. The glass 760 shows the case with one component. The component is insoluble but can disperse. The glass 770 shows the case with soluble and transparent component. FIG. 7 is merely for illustration, does not limit the scope of the disclosure. There may be other situations after pouring the medicine or supplements into water or other beverages. The contents of the cartridge or the tube are not limited to liquid components, tablets could also be used. There may be some keys to activate/deactivate some cartridges. These keys can be implemented in various forms, including but not limited to physical switches, electronic sensors, or integrated user interfaces. To save costs, there may be a more manual version designed for cost-conscious customers. This manual version reduces the reliance on electronic components and automated systems, thereby lowering production and maintenance costs.
The pitcher 600 with stackable design may include one water filter but separate cartridge holders and a release part, which fits a family kitchen. Furthermore, one variant of the bottle shown in FIG. 8 can be a water bottle for the gym or etc. A soda maker can be added to the bottle. The housing 870 with cartridges and containers can be an add on device or attachable lid to already available water bottles. The hole bottle 810 can be designed to fit the housing 870.
The figures are for illustrative purposes only and do not serve as limitations to the invention. Although the preferred embodiments of the disclosure have been described in detail, it should be understood that the scope of the invention is not limited to these specific embodiments. The multi-functional bottle can also achieve various additional functions, such as user interaction, and intelligent reminder functions, to meet different user needs and application scenarios. These variations and improvements should be considered within the scope of the invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. These functions can be seen in the following embodiments.
In some embodiments, the multi-functional bottle may be equipped with a lid. The lid can accommodate the different components: battery without or with charging circuitry if batteries are rechargeable, electrical circuit board, buttons or other means of receiving user inputs, housing for cartridges and containers, dispensing mechanism.
The smart bottle may have one or more of the following components to improve functionality and user experience. A straw is optional to facilitate drinking from the bottle. Sensors (Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer) can be used to know the orientation of the bottle, for example, if the bottom of the bottle is held upside, and to detect if the user is drinking from the bottle or just holding it. A temperature sensor can be used to warn the user if the temperature exceeds the recommended temperature for keeping the contents. A fingerprint scanner can be used to identify the user and make sure that not anyone except the right user takes the medicine or supplement unintentionally. Also, other mechanisms such as an unlock pattern, a password or a parental lock mechanism can be used. The display or separate indicators can be used to inform the user and output messages. A loudspeaker can be used to convey messages and notifications to the user. A microphone can be used to listen to the user and take auditory inputs. A touchscreen can be used to receive user's input. A communication module (e.g., connectivity module WLAN/Bluetooth) can be used to connect with other devices or the Internet. Additionally, a processing unit and a control unit consisting of electric circuit boards and chips can be included to handle data processing and control the functionality of the smart bottle.
In some embodiments, the installed sensors can know the orientation of the bottle and understand the behaviour of the user. For Thank you for pointing that out.example, the sensor can detect whether the user is drinking, whether the user holds up the bottle, whether the bottle is sitting somewhere or if the bottle falls. This information can then be used in a software/application to improve performance and user experience. For example, if the bottle is sitting somewhere, it may not release a tablet but wait for the user to pick up the bottle and then release the tablet. The sensors can be attached to the containers and/or the bottle.
In some embodiments, the bottle can connect to a terminal and/or a server via the communication module. For example, the smart bottle may connect to the Internet or devices such as mobile and smart watch. An application may be provided with the smart bottle to provide means for: defining the content of cartridges and container and their appropriate dosage and the proper schedule; saving data and recording the taken dosage of the medicine and beverage as well as when they are taken, etc.; reminding the user if a dose is forgotten on mobile, smart watch or on the bottle itself; setting up the smart bottle including but not limited to setting up the date and time, or setting up the features to identify the users; entering the prescriptions to make sure the right cartridges are installed, and detect if any is missing; warning if a cartridge is expired or close to being expired; warning if "toxic" dosage of the medicine is consumed/is about to get consumed. The application can connect to smart watch that can send reminder to the user or some other form of information. The server may be a cloud server. The terminal or the server can analyze the user's data to provide health suggestions.
In some embodiments, any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container can be provided with one or more identifiers. The bottle may be provided with one or more corresponding identify unit. The containers and cartridges may have identifiers such as barcode, RFID, or an electronic chip and the smart bottle may be equipped with the associated reader to identify the cartridges and containers, and read important information such as the content of the cartridge automatically instead of entering this information manually for example via the application. This can not only make it faster and simpler to install new cartridges but also reduce the risk of mistakes while manually identifying the cartridges and containers. One such information maybe the manufacture ID, expiration date etc. to make sure that expired medicine or supplements are not consumed and detect counterfeit cartridges and containers. This identification may happen whenever it is needed. For example, identification can be performed after a bottle is reopened or dropped to recheck for any changes.
In some embodiments, the system can be informed how much water needs to be taken after one specific medicine and it can remind the user to drink water, measure the amount user drink and inform the user if the user drinks enough water or less. The system may include the bottle and/or the device connected to the bottle.
In some embodiments, the smart bottle may have a touchpad and ask for a code or pattern to identify the user to unlock. Alternatively, the bottle is connected to the user phone or smart watch and user need to input a pattern or a pass phrase etc. After identification happens on these devices, a signal can be sent to the bottle to unlock.
Thus, the multi-functional bottle can provide one or more of the following functionalities, in addition to the basic functionality of drinking beverage as in conventional bottles:

Measuring as well as tracking the amount of consumed beverage, medicine, and supplements;
Providing solid-form medicine or supplements, e.g., tablets and capsules;
Providing liquid-form medicine and supplements with the correct dosage, e.g., syrups; Providing liquid-form medicine and supplements in small dosage such as drops; Reminding the user to take their medicine or supplements at the scheduled time; Connecting to a mobile application and other smart devices, e.g., smart watches, to track and monitor consumption, etc.

One important functionality of smart bottle is delivering medicine or supplements to the user. Some substances are in the form of capsule and tablet as they are solid and delivered in units. Some other substances are in the form of concentrated liquid which have to be dispensed in precise dose. Finally, some liquid substances are delivered in higher amount and do not require high precision to control the dosage. The dispensing mechanism makes sure of the correct dosage of the substance is delivered. Furthermore, sensors may be installed to measure the exact amount that has been delivered.
It should be noted that the above description is merely provided for the purposes of illustration, and not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. For persons having ordinary skill in the art, multiple variations and modifications may be made under the teachings of the present disclosure. However, those variations and modifications do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure.
Having thus described the basic concepts, it may be rather apparent to those skilled in the art after reading this detailed disclosure that the foregoing detailed disclosure is intended to be presented by way of example only and is not limiting. Various alterations, improvements, and modifications may occur and are intended to those skilled in the art, though not expressly stated herein. These alterations, improvements, and modifications are intended to be suggested by this disclosure, and are within the spirit and scope of the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.
Moreover, certain terminology has been used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the terms "one embodiment," "an embodiment," and/or "some embodiments" mean that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is emphasized and should be appreciated that two or more references to "an embodiment" or "one embodiment" or "an alternative embodiment" in various portions of this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined as suitable in one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

A multi-functional bottle for delivering medicine and supplements, comprising:
a first container, wherein the first container is configured to store a first liquid, the first liquid comprises one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution;

a second container, wherein the second container is configured to store a first substance, the first substance comprises one or more tablet, capsule, and softgel;

a first outlet, wherein the first outlet is configured to deliver the first liquid; and

a second outlet, wherein the second outlet is configured to deliver the first substance one unit at a time.
The multi-functional bottle of claim 1, further comprising:
an actuation mechanism, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises an actuator; and

an elastic mechanism for the second container;

wherein after triggering the actuation mechanism, the actuator moves away to create a vacant space, allowing the elastic mechanism to push one unit of the first substance into the vacant space, and the actuator moves the one unit of the first substance to be accessible via the second outlet;
preferably, further comprising:
a plurality of second containers arranged around the actuation mechanism; and

the actuation mechanism provided with a shifter;

wherein the shifter is configured to move the plurality of second containers to make one of the plurality of second containers facing the actuator.
The multi-functional bottle of any of claims 1 to 2, further comprising:
a third container, wherein the third container is configured to store a second substance, the second substance comprises one or more of concentrate, drop, powder, emulsion, syrup, and suspension; wherein the first outlet is configured to deliver the second substance, and the first container and the third container are connected via a fluid passageway such that when the third container discharges a part of the second substance, the first liquid flushes the part of the second substance; and/or

a fourth container, wherein the fourth container is configured to store a second liquid, the second liquid comprises one or more of syrup, oral solution, suspension, and emulsion; and the first outlet is configured to deliver the second liquid; and/or

wherein any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container is replaceable.
The multi-functional bottle of any of claims 1 to 3, further comprising:
one or more identify units; and

one or more identifiers on any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container, wherein the one or more identifiers comprises identify information of the respective container;

wherein the one or more identify units are configured to recognize the one or more identifiers.
The multi-functional bottle of any of claims 1 to 4, further comprising:
a sensor unit, wherein the sensor unit is configured to perform one or more following functions: flow measurement, content measurement, temperature measurement, orientation measurement; and/or

a communication unit configured to connect to a terminal and/or a server; and/or

a reminder unit configured to emit an alert sound or illuminate a light; and/or

a security unit configured to identify a user; and/or

an interaction unit configured to facilitate user interactions with the multi-functional bottle; and/or

an energy unit configured to supply energy to the multi-functional bottle.
A multi-functional bottle for delivering medicine and supplements, comprising:
a first container, wherein the first container is configured to store a first liquid, the first liquid comprises one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution;

a third container, wherein the third container is configured to store a second substance, the second substance comprises one or more of concentrate, drop, powder, emulsion, syrup, and suspension; and

a first outlet, wherein the first outlet is configured to deliver the first liquid and/or the second substance;

wherein the first container and the third container are connected via a fluid passageway such that when the third container discharges a part of the second substance, the first liquid flushes the part of the second substance.
The multi-functional bottle of claim 6, further comprising:
a second container, wherein the second container is configured to store a first substance, the first substance comprises one or more tablet, capsule, and softgel; and a second outlet, wherein the second outlet is configured to deliver the first substance; and/or

a fourth container, wherein the fourth container is configured to store a second liquid, the second liquid comprises one or more of syrup, oral solution, suspension, and emulsion; and the first outlet is configured to deliver the second liquid; and/or

wherein any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container is replaceable.
The multi-functional bottle of claim 7, further comprising:
an actuation mechanism, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises an actuator; and

an elastic mechanism for the second container;

wherein after triggering the actuation mechanism, the actuator moves away to create a vacant space, allowing the elastic mechanism to push one unit of the first substance into the vacant space, and the actuator moves the one unit of the first substance to be accessible via the second outlet;
preferably, further comprising:
a plurality of second containers arranged around the actuation mechanism; and

the actuation mechanism provided with a shifter;

wherein the shifter is configured to move the plurality of second containers to make one of the plurality of second containers facing the actuator.
The multi-functional bottle of any of claims 6 to 8, further comprising:
one or more identify units; and

one or more identifiers on any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container, wherein the one or more identifiers comprises identify information of the respective container;

wherein the one or more identify units are configured to recognize the one or more identifiers.
The multi-functional bottle of any of claims 6 to 9, further comprising:
a sensor unit, wherein the sensor unit is configured to perform one or more following functions: flow measurement, content measurement, temperature measurement, orientation measurement; and/or

a communication unit configured to connect to a terminal and/or a server; and/or

a reminder unit configured to emit an alert sound or illuminate a light; and/or

a security unit configured to identify a user; and/or

an interaction unit configured to facilitate user interactions with the multi-functional bottle; and/or

an energy unit configured to supply energy to the multi-functional bottle.
A multi-functional bottle for delivering medicine and supplements, comprising:
a first container, wherein the first container is configured to store a first liquid, the first liquid comprises one or more of water, beverage, and electrolyte solution;

a fourth container, wherein the fourth container is configured to store a second liquid, the second liquid comprises one or more of syrup, oral solution, suspension, and emulsion; and

a first outlet, wherein the first outlet is configured to deliver the first liquid and/or the second liquid.
The multi-functional bottle of claim 11, further comprising:
a second container, wherein the second container is configured to store a first substance, the first substance comprises one or more tablet, capsule, and softgel; and a second outlet, wherein the second outlet is configured to deliver the first substance; and/or

a third container, wherein the third container is configured to store a second substance, the second substance comprises one or more of concentrate, drop, powder, emulsion, syrup, and suspension; wherein the first outlet is configured to deliver the second substance, and the first container and the third container are connected via a fluid passageway such that when the third container discharges a part of the second substance, the first liquid flushes the part of the second substance; and/or

wherein any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container is replaceable.
The multi-functional bottle of claim 12, further comprising:
an actuation mechanism, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises an actuator; and

an elastic mechanism for the second container;

wherein after triggering the actuation mechanism, the actuator moves away to create a vacant space, allowing the elastic mechanism to push one unit of the first substance into the vacant space, and the actuator moves the one unit of the first substance to be accessible via the second outlet;
preferably, further comprising:
a plurality of second containers arranged around the actuation mechanism; and

the actuation mechanism provided with a shifter;

wherein the shifter is configured to move the plurality of second containers to make one of the plurality of second containers facing the actuator.
The multi-functional bottle of any of claims 11 to 13, further comprising:
one or more identify units; and

one or more identifiers on any of the first container, the second container, the third container or the fourth container, wherein the one or more identifiers comprises identify information of the respective container;

wherein the one or more identify units are configured to recognize the one or more identifiers.
The multi-functional bottle of any of claims 11 to 14, further comprising:
a sensor unit, wherein the sensor unit is configured to perform one or more following functions: flow measurement, content measurement, temperature measurement, orientation measurement; and/or

a communication unit configured to connect to a terminal and/or a server; and/or

a reminder unit configured to emit an alert sound or illuminate a light; and/or

a security unit configured to identify a user; and/or

an interaction unit configured to facilitate user interactions with the multi-functional bottle; and/or

an energy unit configured to supply energy to the multi-functional bottle.