PROCESS FOR UTILIZING DUAL USE PACKAGING FOR A FISH-RELATED PRODUCT

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention generally relates to dual use packaging. More particularly, the present invention relates to the use of a package for dispensing a fish-related product and then utilizing the package as a decorative ornament in an aquarium.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Single use containers for retaining pet-related products, whether liquid or solid, are generally known in the art. Such containers may include hard outer shells or soft outer shells that are squeezable. Either way, the containers include an internal compartment with an opening to access the internal compartment. The internal compartment contains the pet-related product and allows a user to dispense the product from the container until the container is empty. Once the container is empty there is no use other than to possibly re-use the container to hold more pet-related product.
For example, US6070554 relates to a fish feeder that is semi-submersible and is removed from the aquarium after once all the food has dispersed.

[0003] It would be advantageous to find another use for the empty containers and used packaging once the pet-related product has been dispensed. Accordingly, there is a need for a product and a process for utilizing such product for dual purposes. The present invention fulfills these needs and provides other related advantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention is directed to a process for the dual use of packaging for a fish-related product such as fish food or a fish-related consumable product normally dispensed into an aquarium. The process comprises the steps of (1) providing a dual use package including a compartment for containing the fish-related product therein, (2) dispensing the fish-related product from the compartment, and (3) placing the dual use package within the aquarium. The dual use package may be reconfigured for use as a decorative feature within the aquarium, wherein the process includes the step of adding a decorative element to the dual use package.

[0005] The decorative element may comprise a light fixture, a decorative elastomeric cover over at least a portion of the dual use package, and applique applied, at least in part, to a surface of the dual use package, or a bubbler. The reconfiguring step may further include the step of removing the decorative element from the dual use package prior to placing it into the aquarium.

[0006] The process may further include adding ballast to the internal compartment, attaching an anchor to the package and securing the anchor within the aquarium, or causing the reconfigured package to be buoyant in the water and attaching an anchor to the package by a length of fine cord which is secured to the aquarium. The reconfigured package may further be reoriented while submerged in the aquarium. Moreover, the bubbler may be configured so as to create movement of at least a portion of the dual use package when submerged in the aquarium.

[0007] More specifically, ballast may be added to the internal compartment or externally to the package before utilizing the package as a decorative ornament. The ballast may comprise aquarium rocks or similarly dense material sufficient to hold the package submerged under water. Alternatively, the process may include attaching an anchor device, i.e., disc or pad, to a base or any other part of the package and securing the anchor device to an interior surface of the aquarium as by suction cup, covering with rocks, or the like. The anchor may comprise a threaded cap configured to attach to a threaded neck as on the opening to the internal compartment. The threaded cap may be removably attached to the threaded neck.

[0008] In addition, the reconfiguring step may include removing a plug from a secondary opening to allow air trapped in the internal compartment to escape once the dual use package is submerged and reoriented in the aquarium. The plug or plugs may also be permanently removed to expose openings for design purposes, such as the eyes or mouth of a statue.

[0009] The dual use package may resemble a lighthouse with a decorative element comprising a light feature in a top of the lighthouse. The package may also resemble a treasure chest with the decorative element comprising a hinged lid capable of pivoting movement about the hinge. A bubbler may be attached to a fitting on the treasure chest such that air may be bubbled into a cavity on the hinged lid. As the air fills the cavity on the hinged lid, the hinged lid periodically lifts due to the buoyancy of the air in the water and releases the air such that the lid falls back down. The light source, movable parts, and bubbler are not limited to these packages, but may also be applied to other dual use packages as well.

[0010] The dual use package may also resemble a rock sculpture and the decorative element may comprise a passage through the rock sculpture. The package may resemble a wall block and the decorative element may comprise a stone or brick pattern. The wall block may further have a slot on a first side and a tongue on a second side. The process may further comprise the step of attaching the tongue of the wall block to a slot on a second wall block so as to form a longer wall. The through passage as well as the tongue and slot can also be applied to other dual use packages.

[0011] The dual use package may resemble a submarine with the decorative element comprising a plurality of LED lights along a length of the submarine and/or a propeller at a rear of the submarine. The decorative element may also include a bubbler attached to a fitting on the submarine and bubbling air into the propeller so as to turn the propeller.

[0012] The dual use package may further resemble a vase with the decorative element comprising a plant having leaves extending from a top of the vase. A bubbler may be attached to a fitting on the vase for bubbling air into the leaves of the plant so as to move the leaves.

[0013] The dual use package may also be very simple in design and be made to provide a structural support to a decorative elastomeric cover over at least a portion of the dual use package. The decorative elastomeric cover may resemble a variety of different fish, animals, and objects.

[0014] The dual use package may also be a simple cylindrical package, already known in the art, with a lid that is designed to be an aquarium ornament such as an ancient coin, pile of treasure, seashell, etc. The reconfiguration step includes removing this decorative element from the package. In the alternative the lid could have a removably attached ornament, such as a statue, for which the lid would act as an anchoring device.

[0015] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the reconfiguring step may include adorning the surface of the dual use package with a mirror, lenticular, or holographic, material that produces three-dimensional or moving images on a two-dimensional surface. The package may also have an appliqué applied to at least part of the surface to give the package a realistic appearance. Such material may be adhered to the outer surface of the package to produce a desired visual presentation.

[0016] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following more detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The accompanying drawings illustrate the invention. In such drawings:

FIGURE 1A is a perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a lighthouse;

FIGURE 1B is an exploded perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a lighthouse;

FIGURE 2A is an elevated perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a treasure chest;

FIGURE 2B is a rear lower perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a treasure chest;

FIGURE 3A is an elevated perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a rock sculpture;

FIGURE 3B is an inverted perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a rock sculpture;

FIGURE 4A is an elevated perspective view of a dual use package that resembles two wall blocks;

FIGURE 4B is a lower perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a wall block;

FIGURE 5A is an elevated perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a submarine;

FIGURE 5B is a lower perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a submarine;

FIGURE 6A is an elevated perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a vase;

FIGURE 6B is a lower perspective view of a dual use package that resembles a vase;

FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of a dual use package molded as a support structure;

FIGURE 8 is a perspective view of the dual use package of FIG. 7 with a decorative covering;

FIGURE 9 is a perspective view of a dual use package with an ornament removably attached to the lid;

FIGURE 10 is a perspective view of the lid of FIG. 9;

FIGURE 11 is an exploded view of the lid of FIG. 10;

FIGURE 12A is a perspective view of a dual use package with punch-out openings as a decorative feature;

FIGURE 12B is an exploded perspective view of the dual use package of FIG. 12A;

FIGURE 13 is a perspective view of a dual use package with a decorative lid;

FIGURE 14 is a perspective view of a dual use package having an anchoring device attached to a side;

FIGURE 15 is a perspective view of an anchor device according to the present invention;

FIGURE 16 is a lower perspective view of the anchor device attached to a bottom of a dual use package of the present invention;

FIGURE 17 is an environmental view of an alternate embodiment of the dual use package of the present invention;

FIGURE 18 is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the anchor device of FIG. 15;

FIGURE 19 is a lower perspective exploded view of the alternate embodiment of the anchor device and a dual use package of the present invention.

FIGURE 20 is an environmental view of the dual use packages of FIGS. 1-6 in an aquarium;

FIGURE 21 is an environmental view of the dual use packages of FIGS. 7-13 in an aquarium.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] The present invention is directed to a process for utilizing dual use packaging. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a process for using a dual use package for a pet-related product such as fish food and then reconfiguring that dual use package as an ornamental decoration in an aquarium.

[0019] The dual use package, generally referred to by reference numeral 20 herein, is depicted in FIGS. 1-21 in various embodiments. The dual use package 20 generally comprises an outer structure or housing 22, an internal compartment 24 and an opening 26 for accessing the internal compartment 24. The package 20 may also comprise a plug 28 or similar structure, i.e., diaphragm, membrane, etc., covering a secondary opening 26a which is typically smaller than the primary opening 26. The secondary opening 26a is configured primarily for the purpose of releasing air that may be trapped in the internal compartment 24 when the package 20 is submerged in an aquarium. In some of the embodiments, the plug or plugs 28 may be permanently removed for a particular design feature as will be described. The dual use package 20 may be decorated or itself comprise ornamental features, as described below.

[0020] When the dual use package 20 is initially prepared it contains a quantity of a pet-related product 30. Such pet-related product 30 preferably comprises food as the dual use package 20 is primarily directed towards use with fish and other aquarium-related pets. The pet-related product 30 may comprise food, water treatment chemicals, or other products commonly used with fish or other pets kept in an aquarium whether filled with water or not. The dual use packages 20 are preferably made from non-toxic plastic and decorated with aquarium-safe non-toxic paint, by dyed plastics, or by applying a colored shrink wrap to the packages 20. The packages 20 may be made from typical injection molded, blow molded, or rotary molded processes. The decorations may also be provided by stickers using non-toxic adhesive. The decorations may be three-dimensional protrusions or two-dimensional paint or stickers.

[0021] FIGURES 1A and 1B illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the dual use package 20 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the dual use package 20 is shaped to resemble a lighthouse 32. The top of the lighthouse 32 includes a light source 34, as an LED or other type of light, configured to resemble the light found in an actual lighthouse. The internal compartment 24 is illustrated using dashed lines to indicate that it is inside of the lighthouse 32. The internal compartment 24 is configured such that the lighthouse 32 includes a base portion 36 that gives the bottom of the lighthouse 32 sufficient weight to remain upright in a buoyant environment such as when submerged in an aquarium.

[0022] A cap 38 included in the top of the lighthouse 32 covers the opening 26 to the internal compartment 24. Being the highest-most point on the lighthouse 32, the top of the cap 38 includes the plug means 28 covering the secondary opening 26A. The cap 38 may be removable or hingedly attached to the dual use package 20.

[0023] FIGURES 2A and 2B illustrate another alternate embodiment of the dual use package 20 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the package 20 is configured to resemble a treasure chest 40 having a lid 42 connected to the chest 40 by a pivoting hinge 44 and containing a quantity of treasure. The chest 40 may include one or more light sources to resemble twinkling gems in the treasure. The internal compartment 24 is disposed in a base of the chest 40 and the opening 26 is preferably on the bottom. The plug 28 and secondary opening 26a are located under the lid 42. A fitting 46 is disposed preferably on a back of the treasure chest 40 to provide an attachment point for an air bubbler tube 48 that releases air into an interior cavity 50 of the lid 42. The lid 42 is sufficiently weighted such that it rests in a substantially closed position when the chest is submerged. As air from the bubbler tube 48 fills the cavity 50 in the lid 42 the buoyancy of the lid 42 changes. Once a sufficient quantity of air fills the cavity 50 the buoyancy of the air overcomes the weight of the lid 42 such that it raises in the water to release the trapped air. Once the trapped air is released, the lid 42 falls under its own weight such that it is again substantially closed against the base of the chest 40. The process repeats as long as air continues to bubble through the tube 48.

[0024] FIGURES 3A and 3B illustrate another alternate embodiment for the dual use package 20 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the package 20 resembles a rock sculpture 52. The rock sculpture 52 preferably resembles any type of rock that may be found under water or in an aquarium and may include a tunnel or passage 54 through the sculpture. The tunnel or passage 54 may allow a fish or other inhabitant of the aquarium to pass therethrough. The tunnel or passage 54 may be included in any of the other embodiments to allow a fish to swim therethrough. The passage 54 may be included in another sculpture, such as a castle, home, or similar building. The opening 26 is preferably on an underside of the rock sculpture 52 so as not to be visible when placed in the aquarium. The plug 28 and secondary opening 26a are preferably disposed on the top of the rock sculpture 52 so as to be in the highest position when the same is placed in an aquarium. The internal compartment 24 is illustrated in dotted lines and preferably surrounds the tunnel or passage 54.

[0025] FIGURES 4A and 4B illustrate another alternate embodiment of the dual use package 20 of the present invention. In this alternate embodiment, the package 20 resembles a wall block 56 or similar design. The surfaces of the wall block 56 preferably have a pattern or decoration such as a stone or brick pattern 58. The opening 26 is preferably disposed on the bottom of the wall block 56 so as to be hidden from view when the wall block 56 is placed in an aquarium. The plug 28 and secondary opening 26a are preferably disposed on a top surface of the wall block 56.

[0026] One side of the wall block 56 may include a slot or groove 60 configured to receive a tongue 62 disposed on a surface of another wall block 56. In this way, the tongue 62 of one wall block 56 may be inserted into the slot or groove 60 of a second wall block 56 so as to assemble a longer wall structure. The wall block 56 may be sold having both a slot 60 and a tongue 62. Alternatively, the wall blocks 56 may be sold having only one of the tongue 62 and slot or groove 60. In this way, a wall assembled from multiple wall blocks 56 may be constructed such that an exposed tongue 62 or slot or groove 60 is not visible in an assembled wall segment. Multiple wall blocks 56 may be connected by other structures, such as studs and holes, i.e., LEGO®-type connectors. The slot or groove 60 as well as the tongue 62 are not limited to the rock wall embodiment, but can be expanded to include any alternate embodiments, for example, to attach statues together.

[0027] FIGURES 5A and 5B illustrate yet another embodiment of the dual use package 20 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the package 20 resembles a submarine 64. The submarine preferably includes a plurality of lights 66, i.e., LED or otherwise, disposed along its sides and a rotating propeller 68. The opening 26 is preferably disposed on the top of a tower 70 of the submarine 64. The plug 28 and secondary opening 26a may be included in a cap 38 designed to cover the opening 26 in the top of the tower 70. A fitting 74 is preferably disposed proximate to the propeller 68. An air bubbler tube 76 attached to the fitting 74 preferably introduces air bubbles into the propeller 68 to rotate the same.

[0028] FIGURES 6A and 6B illustrate another alternate embodiment of the dual use package 20 of the present invention. This ornamental embodiment is configured to represent a vase 78 having a plant 80 with leaves and stems growing out of the top. The opening 26 is preferably disposed on the bottom of the vase so as to be hidden from view when it is placed in an aquarium. The plug 28 and secondary opening 26a are preferably in the top of the vase among the leaves of the plant 80. A fitting 82 is preferably disposed on the vase 78 so as to receive an air bubbler tube 84. Air introduced into the fitting 82 is preferably released among the leaves of the plant 80 so as to cause the leaves to appear to sway in the water of the aquarium.

[0029] FIGURES 7 and 8 illustrate yet another embodiment of the dual use package 20 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the package 20, as shown in FIG. 7, is of a very simple design and molded to become a support structure for a decorative elastomeric cover 49, illustrated as an octopus 43 in FIG. 8. This elastomeric covering 49 is meant to be stretched over at least a portion of the package 20 when the fish product 30 is depleted and used in an aquarium 88 for decoration. The covering 49 could have a variety of different forms including but not limited to, different sea creatures, different animals, seashells, rocks, etc.

[0030] FIGURES 9-11 illustrate another embodiment of the dual use package 20 and cap 38 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the package 20 is a simple cylindrical container for fish-related product already known in the art and not meant for placement in an aquarium. Again, the cap 38 of this package 20 is the decorative element meant to be placed in the aquarium after the fish-related product 30 is depleted. The cap 38 may have an ornament attached to it, such as a ship 45, which would be solid and not filled with fish-related product. The cap 38 would then act as a gravel tray or anchoring device 96 which could be covered by the rocks or sand of the aquarium 88 to keep the ornament anchored. The ornamental attachment may also be attached to the package 20 itself. The ornamental attachment may also be removable from the package 20 or the cap 38, which would allow the ornamental attachment to be placed by itself in the aquarium 88 without having an anchoring device 96.

[0031] FIGURES 12A and 12B, illustrate another embodiment of the dual use package 20 of the present invention. This ornamental embodiment is configured to represent a Mayan statue 39. The secondary openings 26a of this embodiment are designed and placed in order to open up specific design features. For example, in this embodiment the secondary openings 26a are designed to be the eyes and the mouth in the Mayan statue. There are perforations in the plastic around the plugs 28 allowing the plugs to be punched out to open up the design features. It should again be noted that the use of the secondary openings 26a with punch out caps as design features are not limited to a Mayan statue, but may also be used in other ornamental embodiments of the package 20.

[0032] FIGURE 13 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the dual use package 20 is a simple cylindrical package 20 for fish-related product 30 already known in the art and not meant for placement in an aquarium 88. However, the cap 38 of the package 20 is the decorative element meant to be placed in the aquarium 88 after the fish-related product 30 is depleted. The cap 38 of this package 20 may be composed of a solid heavy plastic or filled with ballast 86 so as to sink in water. With this structure, the lid 38 might be molded to resemble an ancient coin 41.

[0033] In each of the embodiments, a weighted ballast material 86 is preferably added to the internal compartment 24 before the dual use package 20 is submerged in the water of the aquarium. The ballast 86 may also be added externally to the package 20 to the lid 42, cap 38, closing means, or even the decorative element rather than added separately to the internal compartment 24. The plug 28 is preferably removed from the secondary opening 26a and the package turned upside down or reoriented while submerged so as to allow any excess air trapped in the internal compartment 24 to escape. When adding the package 20 to an aquarium, a user preferably orients the package 20 initially so as to release any excess air from the internal compartment 24. This may be accomplished by removing a cap or other cover from the opening 26 and orienting the package 20 such that the opening is upward and any air in the internal compartment 24 would be replaced by water from the aquarium. Once this is accomplished, the cap may be replaced on the opening 26 and the package 20 positioned in the aquarium as desired.

[0034] In addition to the secondary opening 26a being used to allow any excess air trapped in the internal compartment 24 to escape, it can also be used in certain embodiments, as described previously, as a decorative feature as illustrated in FIG. 12. For instance, well designed secondary openings 26a could allow a particular design feature to open up, such as the eyes or mouth of a statue. This feature would allow the ornament to have more depth and realism. Also, if the secondary opening 26a is big enough, it would allow fish or other aquarium animals to swim into and out of the ornament. The plug 28 for the secondary openings 26a meant for this decorative purpose would be a part of the dual use package 20 which would have perforations in the plastic around it allowing the plug 28 to be popped out when the package 20 is empty and ready to be positioned in the aquarium.

[0035] FIGURES 14-16 illustrate an anchor device 96 such as an extended base that is used for anchoring the dual use package 20 to the bottom of an aquarium 88. The anchor device 96 is attached to an underside of the package 20 and then secured to the bottom of the aquarium 88 as by the weight of rocks 92 or other securing mechanism on top of a tray 99. To secure the anchor device 96, one simply maneuvers the package 20 back and forth to allow gravel or rocks 92 to surround and rest on top of the tray 99 on the anchor device 96. The weight of the gravel or rocks 92 will hold the anchor device 96 against the bottom of the aquarium 88 and likewise prevent the package 20 from floating in the water 90. The exact shape, configuration and design of the anchor device 96 may vary so as to securely anchor the particular package 20. The anchor device 96 may alternatively comprise a suction cup 98 (FIG. 16) that attaches itself to the bottom glass of the aquarium 88. Furthermore, the anchoring device 96 is not limited to being attached to the underside of the package 20, but may be attached to any part of the package 20, such as the side (FIG. 14), the lid, or the cap 38. This feature would allow for the package 20 to be secured to the bottom or sides of the aquarium, as seen in FIGS 17, 20, and 21.

[0036] FIGURE 17 illustrates another alternate embodiment in which the package 20 is configured to float in the water 90 of the aquarium 88 between the top and bottom of the same. In this embodiment, the package 20 - in any of the various decorative configurations - is configured to trap air within the internal compartment 24 so as to provide buoyancy to the package 20. A structure such as the anchor device 96 is provided with a suction cup 98 or tray 99 as described and secured to the bottom glass of the aquarium 88. FIG. 17 illustrates the gravel 92 moved away from the anchor device 96 for clarity. In actual use, the gravel 92 is preferably moved to cover the anchor device 96. A fine wire or string 100 connects the package 20 to the anchor device 96.

[0037] When submerged under water, the buoyancy of the dual use package 20 will cause the same to float toward the surface of the water 90. The string 100 will prevent the package 20 from floating all the way to the surface of the water 90. When under water, the string 100 should be virtually invisible as would fishing line, cable, thread, wire, or similar material that is thin or of fine thickness. The string 100 may either be taut or flexible to allow the package 20 to float around and simulate movement. In this embodiment, the package 20 does not require ballast or other weighted material. In fact, the package 20 should be as light as possible to maximize the buoyancy. Any plugs 28 or similar structures provided for a release of air can be left in place. The package 20 may come in other shapes or ornamental configurations such as hot air balloons, fish, sharks, airplanes, blimps, space ships, etc.

[0038] In any of the foregoing embodiments, the surface of the dual use package 20 may be adorned with a mirror, lenticular, or holographic material that produces three-dimensional or moving images on a two-dimensional surface. Such material may be adhered to the outer surface of the container to produce a desired visual presentation. In particular, appliques constructed to give the illusion of depth perception on a two-dimensional object may be applied to the outer surfaces of the containers. On curved surfaces, the appliques may be wrapped or crimped to turn the corners. Such appliqués may provide static three-dimensional imagery, or may give the illusion of motion as the viewing angle changes.

[0039] The surface of the dual use package 20, in any of the embodiments, may also have different molded or applied textures. The rock wall, tunneled rock, and lighthouse, may have a gritty texture applied to them to resemble actual rocks and lighthouse walls. The plant leaves may have a material texture applied to resemble the leaves of a plant. The treasure chest may have molded lines to resemble the grain of the wood used to make chests. A mirrored surface might also be applied as a decorative feature resembling a mirror or any other shining and reflective surface. The texture applied or molded into the different embodiments, should not be limited to the embodiments described, but should include texture for any embodiment to help the package 20 appear more realistic.

[0040] FIGURES 18 and 19 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the anchor device 96 of the present invention. In this embodiment, the anchor device comprises a threaded cap 102. The threaded cap 102 may have an anchor device 96 attached, being removable, which may include the tray 99 as illustrated in FIG. 18 or the suction cup 98 as illustrated in FIG. 19. The threaded cap 102 is configured to be removably attached to a threaded neck 104 on the opening 26 to the internal compartment 24. With this embodiment, any of the previously described packages 20 may be configured such that the opening 26 is on a base or under side of the package 20. In this way, the package 20 may be used to dispense the contents of the internal compartment 24 and stored upright on the anchor device 96. Once the contents of the internal compartment 24 have been fully dispensed, the package 20 in whatever configuration may be placed upright in the aquarium with the anchor device 96 secured to the bottom glass of the aquarium 88 as described.

[0041] FIGURES 20 and 21 illustrate an environmental view of an aquarium 88 containing one sample of each embodiment of the dual use packages 20 of the present invention. The aquarium 88 contains water 90 and rocks 92.

[0042] Although various embodiments have been described in detail for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A process for the dual use of packaging for a fish-related product (30), namely fish food, water treatment chemicals or a fish-related consumable product normally dispensed into an aquarium (88), comprising the steps of:

providing a dual use package (20) including a housing (22) having a three-dimensional shape, an internal compartment (24) within the housing (22) for containing the fish-related product (30) therein, a primary opening (26) with an associated cap (38) for accessing the internal compartment (24), and a secondary opening (26a) with an associated plug (28) for selectively opening or closing the secondary opening (26a);

dispensing the fish-related product (30) from the internal compartment (24) through the primary opening (26) into the aquarium (88) while the package (20) is outside the aquarium (88); and after the fish-related product (30) has been completely dispended from the internal compartment (24), performing at least one of the following steps a) to c):

a) adding ballast (86) to the internal compartment (24),

b) attaching an anchor (96) to the dual use package (20) and securing the anchor (96) within the aquarium (88), or

c) causing the dual use package (20) to be buoyant in the water (90), attaching an anchor (96) to the dual use package (20) by a length of fine cord, and securing the anchor (96) within the aquarium (88), followed by finally submerging the dual use package (20) in water within the aquarium (88); and utilizing the dual use package (20) as a decorative ornament in the aquarium (88) after it has been submerged in the aquarium below the water surface.

2. The process of claim 1, including the step of reconfiguring the dual use package (20) for use as a decorative feature within the aquarium (88).

3. The process of claim 2, wherein the reconfiguring step includes the step of adding a decorative element to the dual use package (20).

4. The process of claim 3, wherein the decorative element comprises a light feature.

5. The process of claim 3, wherein the decorative element comprises a decorative elastomeric cover (49) over at least a portion of the dual use package (20).

6. The process of claim 3, wherein the decorative element comprises an appliqué applied, at least in part, to a surface of the dual use package (20).

7. The process of claim 3, wherein the decorative element comprises a bubbler.

8. The process of claim 7, further comprising the step of configuring the bubbler so as to create movement of at least a portion of the reconfigured dual use package (20) when submerged in the aquarium (88).

9. The process of claim 3, wherein the reconfiguring step includes the step of removing the decorative element from the dual use package (20).

10. The process of claim 9, including the step of re-associating the decorative element with the dual use packaging (20).

11. The process of any of claims 2-3, further comprising the step of reorienting the reconfigured package while submerged in the aquarium (88).

Ansprüche

1. Ein Verfahren zur Doppelnutzung von Verpackungen für ein fischbezogenes Produkt (30), nämlich Fischfutter, Wasserbehandlungschemikalien, oder ein fischbezogenes Verbrauchsmaterial, das normalerweise in ein Aquarium (88) gegeben wird, umfassend die folgenden Schritte:

Bereitstellen einer Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) einschließend ein eine dreidimensionale Form aufweisendes Gehäuse (22), eine innere Kammer (24) innerhalb des Gehäuses (22), um das fischbezogene Produkt (30) darin aufzunehmen, eine primäre Öffnung (26) mit einer dazugehörigen Verschlusskappe (38) zum Zugreifen auf die innere Kammer (24), und eine sekundäre Öffnung (16a) mit einem dazugehörigen Stöpsel (28), um die sekundäre Öffnung (26a) wahlweise zu öffnen oder zu schließen;

Abgabe des fischbezogenen Produkts (30) aus der inneren Kammer (24) durch die primäre Öffnung (26) in das Aquarium (88), während die Verpackung (20) außerhalb des Aquariums (88) ist; und, nachdem das fischbezogene Produkt (30) vollständig von der inneren Kammer (24) abgegeben wurde, Durchführen mindestens eines der folgenden Schritte a) bis c):

a) Hinzufügen von Ballast (86) zu der inneren Kammer (24),

b) Anbringen eines Ankers (96) an der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) und Sichern des Ankers (96) innerhalb des Aquariums (88), oder

c) Schwimmfähigmachen der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) im Wasser (90), Anbringen eines Ankers (96) an der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) mit einer feinen Schnur, und Sichern des Ankers (96) in dem Aquarium (88),
abschließend gefolgt von
Untertauchen der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) im Wasser in dem Aquarium (88); und
Nutzen der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) als dekoratives Ornament in dem Aquarium (88), nachdem es in dem Aquarium unter die Wasseroberfläche getaucht wurde.

2. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 1, aufweisend den Schritt des Umgestaltens der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) zur Verwendung als dekoratives Merkmal innerhalb des Aquariums (88).

3. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 2, wobei der Umgestaltungsschritt den Schritt des Hinzufügens eines dekorativen Elements zu der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) aufweist.

4. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 3, wobei das dekorative Element eine Lichtfunktion umfasst.

5. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 3, wobei das dekorative Element eine dekorative Elastomerabdeckung (49) über mindestens einen Teil der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) umfasst.

6. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 3, wobei das dekorative Element eine Applikation umfasst, die zumindest teilweise auf eine Oberfläche der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) aufgebracht ist.

7. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 3, wobei das dekorative Element einen Sprudler umfasst.

8. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 7, ferner umfassend den Schritt des Konfigurierens des Sprudlers, um eine Bewegung mindestens eines Teils der umgestalteten Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) zu erzeugen, wenn sie in das Aquarium (88) getaucht ist.

9. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 3, wobei der Umgestaltungsschritt den Schritt des Entfernens des dekorativen Elements aus der Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20) umfasst.

10. Verfahren gemäß Anspruch 9, aufweisend den Schritt der erneuten Zuordnung des dekorativen Elements zur Doppelnutzungsverpackung (20).

11. Verfahren gemäß einem der Ansprüche 2 bis 3, ferner umfassend den Schritt des Neuausrichtens der umgestalteten Verpackung, während sie in das Aquarium (88) getaucht ist.

Revendications

1. Procédé pour l'utilisation double d'emballage pour un produit lié aux poissons (30), à savoir de la nourriture pour poissons, des produits chimiques de traitement de l'eau ou un produit consommable lié aux poissons distribué normalement dans un aquarium (88), comprenant les étapes de :

fournir un emballage à usage double (20) incluant un logement (22) ayant une forme tridimensionnelle, un compartiment interne (24) à l'intérieur du logement (22) pour contenir le produit lié aux poissons (30) à l'intérieur, une ouverture principale (26) avec un bouchon (38) associé pour accéder au compartiment interne (24), et une ouverture secondaire (26a) avec un bouchon (28) associé pour ouvrir ou fermer de façon sélective l'ouverture secondaire (26a) ;

distribuer le produit lié aux poissons (30) à partir du compartiment interne (24) à travers l'ouverture principale (26) jusque dans l'aquarium (88) tandis que l'emballage (20) est hors de l'aquarium (88) ; et après que le produit lié aux poissons (30) a été complètement distribué à partir du compartiment interne (24), exécuter au moins l'une des étapes a) à c) suivantes :

a) ajouter du ballast (86) au compartiment interne (24),

b) fixer une ancre (96) à l'emballage à usage double (20) et fixer l'ancre (96) à l'intérieur de l'aquarium (88), ou

c) rendre l'emballage à usage double (20) flottant dans l'eau (90) en fixant une ancre (96) à l'emballage à usage double (20) de la longueur d'un cordon fin et en fixant l'ancre (96) à l'intérieur de l'aquarium (88),
suivi enfin par l'immersion de l'emballage à usage double (20) dans l'eau à l'intérieur de l'aquarium (88) ; et l'utilisation de l'emballage à usage double (20) en tant qu'un objet décoratif dans l'aquarium (88) après qu'il a été immergé dans l'aquarium sous la surface de l'eau.

2. Procédé selon la revendication 1, incluant l'étape de reconfiguration de l'emballage à usage double (20) pour l'utilisation en tant que caractéristique décorative à l'intérieur de l'aquarium (88).

3. Procédé selon la revendication 2, dans lequel l'étape de reconfiguration inclut l'étape d'ajouter un élément décoratif à l'emballage à usage double (20).

4. Procédé selon la revendication 3, dans lequel l'élément décoratif comprend une caractéristique de lumière.

5. Procédé selon la revendication 3, dans lequel l'élément décoratif comprend un couvercle élastomère décoratif (49) sur au moins une partie de l'emballage à usage double (20).

6. Procédé selon la revendication 3, dans lequel l'élément décoratif comprend un appliqué, appliqué au moins en partie, sur une surface de l'emballage à usage double (20).

7. Procédé selon la revendication 3, dans lequel l'élément décoratif comprend un bulleur.

8. Procédé selon la revendication 7, comprenant en outre l'étape de configurer le bulleur de façon à créer le mouvement d'au moins une partie de l'emballage à usage double (20) reconfiguré lorsqu'il est immergé dans l'aquarium (88).

9. Procédé selon la revendication 3, dans lequel l'étape de reconfiguration inclut l'étape de retirer l'élément décoratif de l'emballage à usage double (20).

10. Procédé selon la revendication 9, comprenant l'étape de ré-associer l'élément décoratif avec l'emballage à usage double (20).

11. Procédé selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 - 3 comprenant en outre l'étape de réorienter l'emballage reconfiguré tandis qu'il est immergé dans l'aquarium (88).

Drawing