CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.

63/220,900, filed July 12, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/279,904, filed November 16, 2021. U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 63/220,900 and 63/279,904 are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to an apparatus for drinking liquids.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Taking shots with friends in social events is a popular bonding experience. However, taking a shot all down in one gulp may be challenging for some people, and they may take chasers after the shots to reduce the strong taste. Further, a risk of choking exists for taking a shot directly from a glass. Therefore, a need exists for a new apparatus with a straw for drinking a shot with a chaser together while not mixing the shot and chaser evenly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] To facilitate further description of the embodiments, the following drawings are provided in which:

[0005] FIG. 1 illustrates a front elevation view of an apparatus or a shot straw, according to an embodiment;

[0006] FIG. 2 illustrates a front elevation view of an apparatus or a shot straw, and a component thereof displayed separately, according to an embodiment;

[0007] FIGs. 3-4 illustrate a front elevation view and an exploded view, respectively, of an apparatus or a shot straw, and some of its components displayed separately, according to an embodiment;

[0008] FIGs. 5-6 illustrate an apparatus or a shot straw, and some of its components, according to an embodiment;

[0009] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of one-way valves, according to an embodiment;

[0010] FIG. 8 illustrates components of a one-way valve assembly, according to an embodiment;

[0011] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross sectional view of duckbill one-way valves, according to an embodiment;

[0012] FIGs. 10-12 illustrate an apparatus or a shot straw, and some portions thereof, according to an embodiment;

[0013] FIGs. 13-14 illustrate a perspective view and a front elevation view, respectively, of an apparatus or a shot straw, according to an embodiment;

[0014] FIGs. 15-23 illustrate a front elevation view of an apparatus or a shot straw, and some of its components, according to an embodiment;

[0015] FIG. 24 shows a bottom perspective view of an apparatus or a shot straw with a cap opened, according to an embodiment;

[0016] FIG. 25 shows a front elevation view of an apparatus or a shot straw used with a bottle, according to an embodiment;

[0017] FIGs. 26-28 illustrate an apparatus or a shot straw, according to an embodiment;

[0018] FIGs. 29-30 illustrate a front elevation view and an exploded view, respectively, of an apparatus or a shot straw, according to an embodiment;

[0019] FIGs. 31-36 illustrate an apparatus or a shot straw, and some components thereof, according to an embodiment;

[0020] FIGs. 37-56 illustrate exemplary one-way valves, according to various embodiments; [0021] FIG. 57 illustrates a flow chart of a method for providing an apparatus, according to an embodiment; and

[0022] FIG. 58 illustrates a flow chart of a method for using an apparatus, according to an embodiment.

[0023] For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements.

[0024] The terms “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described herein are, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than those illustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms “include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article, device, or apparatus.

[0025] The terms “left,” “right,” “front,” “back,” “top,” “bottom,” “over,” “under,” and the like in the description and in the claims, if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily for describing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances such that the embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles of manufacture described herein are, for example, capable of operation in other orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein.

[0026] As defined herein, “approximately” can, in some embodiments, mean within plus or minus ten percent of the stated value. In other embodiments, “approximately” can mean within plus or minus five percent of the stated value. In further embodiments, “approximately” can mean within plus or minus three percent of the stated value. In yet other embodiments, “approximately” can mean within plus or minus one percent of the stated value.

DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES OF EMBODIMENTS [0027] Various embodiments can include an apparatus. The apparatus can include a straw and a one-way valve. The straw of the apparatus can include a top end, a straw body, and a bottom end opposite the top end and configured to be placed in a container (e.g., a bottle, a cup, or a mug). An exterior surface of the straw body can include branding information (e.g., a trademark, a service mark, the name of the seller or distributor, etc.) for promoting the apparatus or the supplier for the apparatus. Further, the one-way valve of the apparatus can be removably coupled to the bottom end of the straw and configured to allow liquid (e.g., water, juice, beer, soda, etc.) in the container to enter the straw when a suction force is created at the top end of the straw. Examples of the one-way valve can include a cross-slit valve, a duckbill valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, or any other suitable one-way valves.

[0028] In a number of embodiments, the apparatus further can include a top cap removably coupled to the top end of the straw. Examples of the top cap can include a threaded lid, a shooter lid, a hinged flip cap, a twist cap, and/or a squeeze lid. In some embodiments, the top cap further can include a top one-way valve configured to allow a second liquid (e.g., an alcohol shot or a wellness drink) in the straw to exit the straw from the top end when the suction force is created at the top end of the straw. The top one-way valve can include a cross-slit valve, a duckbill valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, or any other suitable one-way valves. In many embodiments, the apparatus also can include a film (e.g., a heat induction foil, etc.) configured to removably seal the top end of the straw.

[0029] In several embodiments, the apparatus further can include a bottom cap removably coupled to the one-way valve and configured to seal the one-way valve. The bottom cap can include a quarter-turn threaded cap, an end cap, or any other suitable caps. The bottom cap also can be configured to seal the one-way valve by any suitable components, e.g., a silicone or rubber lid. In some embodiments, the apparatus additionally can include the second liquid in the straw body. Further, the apparatus and/or its components each can have any suitable dimensions, volumes, configurations, and/or materials. For example, the apparatus can include a height of approximately 9 inches (22.86 centimeters (cm)), an outer diameter of approximately ¼ inch (0.635 cm) to ¾ inch (1.905 cm), and/or a volume of approximately 1 fluid ounce (29.57 milliliters (ml)) to 3 fluid ounces (88.72 ml). The straw body further can include clear plastic, thermoplastic, and/or any other suitable materials.

[0030] Various embodiments include a shot straw. The shot straw can include a straw and a one-way valve. The shot straw, and/or its components (e.g., the straw and/or the one-way valve), each can be similar or substantially identical to the apparatus or shot straw, and/or its corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments described herein. The straw can be made of any suitable materials and have any suitable shapes, dimensions, and/or ornamental features, etc. For instance, the straw can be made of rigid clear plastic or thermoplastic, etc. Examples of such plastic or thermoplastic can include polyethylene terephthalate (PETE or PET), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), extruded polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC), polylactide (PLA), acrylic, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), fiberglass, and nylon. The straw further can include branding, logos, aesthetic designs, etc. printed, etched, or attached to the exterior surface of the straw. The straw can be a cylindrical tube of any suitable dimensions and thicknesses. In some embodiments, the straw can be thicker than a normal disposable straw. An exemplary straw can have a height of a normal straw, such as 9 inches (22.86 cm), and an outer diameter between 1/4 inch (0.635 cm) and 3/4 inch (1.905 cm).

[0031] In a number of embodiments, the one-way valve of the shot straw can be placed inside the straw, at or near the bottom end of the straw. The one-way valve can be configured to allow liquid to flow from the bottom end of the straw toward the top end of the straw, but not the other way around, when an upward pressure is caused by a user sucking from the top end of the straw. Examples of the one-way valve can include a food-grade cross-slit (x-slit) one-way valve, a duckbill one-way valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, and so forth.

[0032] In a number of embodiments, the shot straw further can include a top cap, such as a threaded lid, a shooter lid, a hinged flip cap, a twist cap, or a squeeze lid, etc., which is configured to removably seal or cover, entirely or partially, the top end of the straw. In some embodiments, the shot straw also can include a bottom cap, such as a quarter-turn threaded cap or silicone end cap, which is configured to removably seal or cover, entirely or partially, the bottom end of the straw. In several embodiments where the shot straw includes at least a straw, a one-way valve, and a top cap for removably sealing the top end of the straw, an inner space can be formed inside the straw between the top cap and the one-way valve and be pre-filled (or re-filled) with a liquid, such as an alcoholic shot (e.g., vodka), medicinal fluid, wellness shot, etc. In certain embodiments, the shot straw can be manufactured and sold with the liquid/shot (e.g., 1-3 fluid ounces (29.57 - 88.72 ml) of alcohol or wellness shot) pre-filled in the inner space, and the top/bottom caps attached at each end. When the shot straw is pre-filled with a shot to be sold off the shelf, the top/bottom opening of the straw body further can be sealed with a film (e.g., a heat induction foil, a lift-and-peel induction liner, etc.) that is covered under the top/bottom cap, and that can be removed before first use.

[0033] In some embodiments, to use the shot straw with a pre-filled shot inside, the top cap and the bottom caps can be opened or removed, and the straw can be placed inside a container (e.g., cup/glass/etc.) that includes a drink, with the bottom end of the straw down in the drink. This one-way valve can prevent the shot from flowing down into the container. The user can suck on the top of the straw, to drink the shot, followed by the drink, as the drink can come up the straw through the one-way valve. In a number of embodiments, the shot straw can be single-use or reusable, and/or can be sold to users at bars, at events with drinks, at liquor stores, wellness shops, etc.

[0034] In a few embodiments, the shot straw additionally can include a second one-way valve or a top one-way valve, placed at or near the top end of the straw. The second or top one-way valve can be configured to allow the shot, the shot-drink mix to flow from the inner space of the straw toward the top end of the straw, but not the other way around, when a user sucks at the top end of the straw. The second one-way valve can be similar to or different from the one-way valve at or near the bottom end of the straw. An exemplary second one-way valve can be a cross-slit one-way valve, a duckbill one-way valve, etc. In some embodiments, the second one-way valve can be coupled to, or constitute part of, the top cap and be inserted into or removed from the straw when the top cap is attached to or detached from the top end of the straw. In similar or different embodiments, the one-way valve can be coupled to, or constitute part of, the bottom cap and be inserted into or removed from the straw when the bottom cap is attached to or detached from the bottom end of the straw.

[0035] In a number of embodiments, the shot straw can include a pintle assembly, in addition to or in lieu of, the one-way valve(s). In embodiments with the pintle assembly, the shot straw can be configured so that when the user sucks from the top of the straw, causing a negative pressure to pull the pintle assembly upward, the openings at or near the top and bottom ends of the straw can open and allow the drink in the cup and/or the shot in the straw to flow toward the top of the straw. In similar and/or different embodiments, the shot straw further can be configured that when the user is not using the straw, the pintle assembly automatically returns to its closed state, in which the openings at or near the top and bottom ends of the straw are sealed and no liquid can come in or out of the straw. In certain embodiments, the pintle assembly can include a pintle head, a spring, a lower valve, a pintle shaft, and/or an upper flow port, etc. The pintle head can be configured to be moved up to open, and moved down to close and seal, an opening at or near the top end of the straw, e.g., an outlet opening of the top cap, depending on whether and how much a suction pressure is applied at the top end of the straw.

[0036] In some embodiments, the spring of the pintle assembly can be configured to hold the pintle assembly in place against the top cap, unless or until a suction pressure exceeding a predetermined pressure is applied from the top end of the straw. The spring further can be configured to withstand the weight of the pintle assembly and/or the liquid in the straw when the straw is upside-down, such as when a user is transporting the shot straw and/or refilling the shot straw from the bottom end of the straw. In a number of embodiments, the spring of the pintle assembly can be made of any suitable materials, such as shape-memory polymers or hard plastics, and can include any suitable structures, such as one or more fingers or a cone extending from the pintle shaft toward the top cap.

[0037] In a number of embodiments, the lower valve of the pintle assembly can be configured to open or close the opening at or near the bottom end of the straw when the pintle assembly is pulled/sucked up by a user or pushed down by the spring of the pintle assembly. In a few embodiments, the lower valve can include one or more outlets that allow the drink in a cup/glass to flow, in an L or a T pattern, through the opening at or near the bottom end into the inner space of the straw. In many embodiments, the lower valve can close the opening at or near the bottom end of the straw by having the lower portion of the pintle shaft move into the opening. The pintle shaft can include a bushing at an exterior surface, at least at the lower portion of the pintle shaft near the lower valve, and the bushing can be configured to protect the exterior surface of the pintle shaft that contacts the opening at or near the bottom end of the straw.

[0038] In some embodiments, the top cap can include a mouthpiece and an outlet opening that is opened or closed by the pintle head of the pintle assembly. The top cap can be configured to be sealed when the pintle head is in, or returns automatically to, its closed state so that the user does not need to open or remove the top cap before using the shot straw. For example, the top cap can be made of a flexible material, or include the flexible material at the outlet opening, so that a seal is formed when the pintle assembly is its closed state. Alternatively or additionally, the pintle head can include an O-ring to seal the outlet opening of the top cap.

[0039] In several embodiments, the bottom cap of the shot straw can include an intake opening that is opened or closed by the pintle assembly. For instance, when the pintle head is in, or returns automatically to, its closed state, the pintle shaft can be configured to stay in the intake opening of the bottom cap while the lower valve is below the intake opening of the bottom cap. When the pintle assembly is lifted upward to its open state, the lower valve can then enter the central opening of the bottom cap, and a fluidic pathway can be formed between the cup/class and the inner space of the straw. The bottom cap further can be configured to be sealed when the pintle assembly is in, or returns automatically to, its closed state so that the user does not need to open or close the bottom cap before or after using the shot straw. For instance, the bottom cap can be made of a flexible material, or include the flexible material (e.g., an O-ring) at the intake opening, so that a seal can be formed when the pintle assembly is its closed state.

[0040] In a number of embodiments, the shot straw can be configured to be refilled from the bottom end of the straw. In some embodiments, the bottom cap can comprise a filler cap and a strainer portion removably coupled to the filler cap. Each of the filler cap and the strainer portion can have a corresponding opening, and their corresponding openings form the intake opening of the bottom cap. When the user is refilling the shot straw, the filler cap can be removed, and the liquid can flow through a strainer of the strainer portion configured to prevent any solid matters in the liquid, such as ice cubes, pulps or clumps in the liquid, etc. When the user is drinking from the shot straw, the filler cap can be closed and seal the strainer portion of the strainer, so that the drink can only flow through the intake opening and/or the lower valve of the pintle assembly. In a few embodiments, the strainer portion further can include a wall configured to support the strainer and detachably engage the filler cap.

[0041] Various embodiments can include a method for providing an apparatus or a shot straw. The apparatus or shot straw, and its components, each can be similar or substantially identical to the apparatus or shot straw, and its corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments described herein. The method can include providing a straw for the apparatus with a straw body. The exterior surface of the straw body can include branding information for promoting the apparatus or the supplier therefor and/or aesthetic designs. In many embodiments, the apparatus and/or its components each can have any suitable dimensions, volumes, and/or materials. The height of the straw can be approximately 9 inches (22.86 cm). The outer diameter of the straw body can be approximately ¼ inch (0.635 cm) to ¾ inch (1.905 cm). The volume of the straw body can be approximately 1 fluid ounce (29.57 ml) to 3 fluid ounces (88.72 ml). The straw body can include clear plastic, thermoplastic, or any other suitable materials.

[0042] The method further can include coupling a one-way valve for the apparatus at a bottom end of the straw. The bottom end of the straw can be configured to be placed in a container. When placed in the container, the one-way valve can be configured to allow liquid (e.g., water, soda, juice, etc.) in the container to enter the straw when a suction force is created at a top end of the straw, the top end opposite the bottom end of the straw. In some embodiments, the one-way valve can include one of: a cross-slit valve, a duckbill valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, or any other suitable one-way valves.

[0043] In some embodiments, the method further can include one or more of: (a) removably coupling a top cap to the top end of the straw; (b) removably coupling a bottom cap to the one way valve to seal the one-way valve; (c) sealing the top end of the straw by a removable film; and/or (d) filling a second liquid (e.g., an alcohol shot) into the straw body. The top cap can include one of: a threaded lid, a shooter lid, a hinged flip cap, a twist cap, a squeeze lid, or any other suitable caps. In certain embodiments, the top cap additionally can include a top one-way valve configured to allow the second liquid in the straw to exit the straw from the top end when the suction force is created at the top end of the straw. The top one-way valve further can include one of: a cross-slit valve, a duckbill valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, or any other suitable one-way valves. In several embodiments, the bottom cap can include a quarter-turn threaded cap, an end cap, or any other suitable caps. The bottom cap also can be configured to seal the one-way valve by any suitable components, e.g., a lid.

[0044] Various embodiments can include a method for using an apparatus or a shot straw. The method can include placing the apparatus into a container, with a bottom end of the apparatus submerged in a first liquid in the container. The apparatus can include a straw and a one-way valve. The apparatus, and/or its components (e.g., the straw and/or the one-way valve), each can be similar or substantially identical to the apparatus or shot straw, and/or its corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments described herein. The apparatus and/or its components each also can have any suitable dimensions, configurations, volumes, and/or materials. For example, the apparatus can have a height of approximately 9 inches (22.86 cm), an outer diameter of approximately ¼ inch (0.635 cm) to ¾ inch (1.905 cm), and/or a volume of approximately 1 fluid ounce (29.57 ml) to 3 fluid ounces (88.72 ml).

[0045] In a number of embodiments, the straw can include a top end, a straw body, and the bottom end opposite the top end. The straw body can include clear plastic, thermoplastic, or any other suitable materials. An exterior surface of the straw body can include any suitable branding information and/or aesthetic designs. The one-way valve can be removably coupled to the bottom end of the straw. The one-way valve can include one of: a cross-slit valve, a duckbill valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, or any other suitable one-way valves.

[0046] In some embodiments, the apparatus further can include: (a) a top cap removably coupled to the top end of the straw; (b) a bottom cap removably coupled to the one-way valve and configured to seal the one-way valve; and/or (c) a film configured to removably seal the top end of the straw. The top cap further can include one of: a threaded lid, a shooter lid, a hinged flip cap, a twist cap, a squeeze lid, or any other suitable caps. In several embodiments, the top cap further can include a top one-way valve configured to allow a second liquid in the straw to exit the straw from the top end when a suction force is created at the top end of the straw. The top one-way valve can comprise one of: a cross-slit valve, a duckbill valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, or any other suitable one-way valves. The bottom cap further can include a quarter-turn threaded cap, an end cap, or any other suitable caps. The bottom cap also can be configured to seal the one-way valve by any suitable components, e.g., a lid. The second liquid can be filled into the straw from the top end or the bottom end.

[0047] In many embodiments, the method further can include drinking the first liquid and the second liquid in the straw from the apparatus by sucking at the top end of the straw. Drinking the first liquid and the second liquid in the straw from the apparatus further can include opening the top cap and/or the bottom cap, if any. In embodiments where the apparatus includes the film, drinking the first liquid and the second liquid in the straw from the apparatus further can include removing the film.

[0048] Turning to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a shot straw (1), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (1) can include a straw (110), a one-way valve (120, not shown), a bottom cap (130), and a top cap (140). The shot straw (1), and/or its components (e.g., the straw (110), the one-way valve (120), etc.), each can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw and/or the apparatus, and/or their corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments described herein. The straw (110) is made of rigid clear plastic and includes a label (111) printed on or glued to the exterior surface of the straw (110). The one-way valve (120) here is hidden inside the bottom cap (130). Before using the shot straw (1), a user can open the top cap (140) and pour a shot (e.g., 1-3 fluid ounces (29.57 - 88.72 ml) of liquor, wellness drink, etc.) from atop opening into the straw (110). If the user is not using the shot straw (1) right away, the user can put the bottom cap (130) and the top cap (140) back on to seal the straw (110) and carry the shot straw (1) with the user.

[0049] Continuing with FIG. 1, when the user is about to use the shot straw (1), the user can open the bottom cap (130) and the top cap (140) and drink from the straw (110) containing the shot after placing the bottom end of the straw (110) in a drink and sucking at the top end of the straw (110). By sucking at the top end of the straw (110), the user causes a decreased fluid pressure in the straw (110) which results in an imbalance between the pressures inside and outside the straw (110). Once the difference between the pressures inside and outside the straw (110) reaches a predetermined level, the one-way valve (120) can be pushed open to allow the drink to enter the straw (110) and flow upward with the shot toward the top end of the straw (110) to the user's mouth, and the user can then enjoy the shot and/or the mix of the shot and the drink. When the user stops sucking, the difference between the pressures inside and outside the straw (110) drops immediately. Once the difference is below the predetermined level, the one-way valve (120) would return to its closed state and prevent the liquid inside the straw (110), including the shot and/or the drink, from flowing out of the straw (110) due to gravity.

[0050] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 2 illustrates another shot straw (2), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (2) can include a straw (210), a one-way valve (220), a bottom cap (230), and a top cap (240). The shot straw (2), and/or its components, each can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw and/or the apparatus, and/or their corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments described herein (e.g., the shot straw (1) (FIG. 1)). The straw (210) is made of food-grade clear thermoplastic and has a company logo (211) printed on or glued to the exterior surface of the straw (210). The one-way valve (220) can be similar or identical to the one-way valve (120) (FIG. 1) and to be coupled to the straw (210) at or near the bottom end of the straw (210). The bottom cap (230) here is a quarter turn release cap removably inserted in the bottom end of the straw (210). In this or another embodiment, the one-way valve (220) can be held by the bottom cap (230) and be inserted into the straw (210) together with the bottom cap (230). The top cap (240) here can be a threaded lid.

[0051] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGs. 3-4 illustrate an exemplary shot straw (3), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (3) can include a straw (310), a bottom one-way valve (320), a bottom cap (330), a top cap (340), and a top one-way valve assembly (350). The shot straw (3), and/or its components, each can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw and/or the apparatus, and/or their corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments described herein (e.g., the shot straw (1-2) (FIGs. 1-2)). The straw (310) is cylindrical and has a 9-inch (22.86-cm) height and a half-inch (1.27-cm) outer diameter. The bottom one-way valve (320) here is a cross-slit one-way valve to be held at or near the bottom end of the straw (310), inside the bottom cap (330). The top cap (340) is a Hipped-open cap and comprises a top portion (341) and a bottom portion (342). The top portion (341) is hingedly coupled to the bottom portion (342) and is configured to be flipped opened or closed by a rotational movement with a limited rotational angle. The top portion (341) has a lip (343) protruding from an exterior surface at or near the bottom edge of the top portion (341) to allow a user to push the top portion (341) open. The bottom portion (342) of the top cap (340) is configured to be coupled to the top end of the straw (310). The bottom portion (342) is further configured to hold the top one-way valve assembly (350) inside the top cap (340). The top one-way valve assembly (350) includes a cross-slit one-way valve (351) and a support (352) configured to hold the cross-slit one way valve (351) in place inside the top cap (340) when the top cap (340) is coupled to the straw (310). In similar or different embodiments, the top one-way valve assembly (350) can be configured so that the top one-way valve assembly (350) can be removed with the top cap (340). In similar or alternate embodiments, the top one-way valve assembly (350) can be configured so that the top one-way valve assembly (350) can remain coupled to the straw (310) when the top cap (340) is removed from the straw (310).

[0052] Continuing with FIGs. 3-4, once the shot straw (3) is assembled, the bottom one-way valve (320) and the top one-way valve assembly (350) are properly arranged so that when in use, any liquid flows in the straw (310) is allowed to move in a single direction (e.g., the direction pointed by the arrow (X)). When in use, the shot straw (3) can be pre-filled with any liquid (e.g., alcohol, a wellness shot, or any liquid with supplements or medicines, etc.) inside an inner space of the straw (310), between the bottom one-way valve (320) and the top one-way valve assembly (350). After the bottom cap (330) and the top cap (340) are opened, the shot straw (3) can be placed into a container (e.g., a glass or cup), with the bottom portion of the straw (310) entering the container first. When the container contains a drink (e.g., a juice, alcohol, or beverage, etc.) and a user sucks from the top end of the straw (310), the drink will be drawn into the straw (310), through the bottom one-way valve (320), flow upward with the shot, and finally pass through the top one-way valve assembly (350) into the user's mouth. In contrast, if the user places the shot straw (3) upside-down in the container, the user would not be able to drink the shot or the drink from the bottom end of the straw (310) because the bottom one-way valve (320) and the top one way valve assembly (350) are configured to prevent the shot and the drink from flowing in the wrong direction.

[0053] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGs. 5-6 illustrates another exemplary shot straw (5), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (5) can include a straw (510), a bottom one-way valve (not shown), a bottom cap (530), atop cap (540), and atop one-way valve assembly (550). The shot straw (5), and/or its components, each can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw and/or the apparatus, and/or their corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments described herein (e.g., the shot straw (1-3) (FIGs. 1-4)). The straw (510) can be similar or identical to the straw (110) (FIG. 1), the straw (210) (FIG. 2), or the straw (310) (FIGs. 3-4). The bottom cap (530) is configured to hold the bottom one-way valve (not shown) and to be coupled to the bottom end of the straw (510). The bottom cap (530) can be similar or identical to the bottom cap (130) (FIG. 1), the bottom cap (230) (FIG. 2), or the bottom cap (330) (FIGs. 3- 4). The top cap (540) can be similar or identical to the top cap (340) (FIGs. 3-4). The top cap (540) is a Hipped-open cap and comprises a top portion (541), a bottom portion (542), and a hinge portion (543). The top portion (541) is coupled to the bottom portion (542) via the hinge portion (543) and is configured to be opened or closed by a rotational movement around an axis along the hinge portion (543) (e.g., the axis Y). The bottom portion (542) of the top cap (540) is configured to be coupled to the top end of the straw (510). The bottom portion (542) is further configured to hold the top one-way valve assembly (550) inside the top cap (540). The top one-way valve assembly (550) can be similar or identical to the top one-way valve assembly (350) (FIGs. 3-4). The top one-way valve assembly (550) can include a cross-slit one-way valve (551) and a support (552) configured to hold the cross-slit one-way valve (551) in place when the top cap (540) is coupled to the straw (510).

[0054] Referring again to FIGs. 5-6, the shot straw (5) can be pre-filled with a 1-3 oz. shot (512) in an inner space of the straw (510). In a similar or different embodiment, a user can remove the top cap (540) and the top one-way valve assembly (550) and fill or re-fill the inner space of the straw (510) with the shot (512) or a different shot. The straw (510) can be made of thermoplastic. The top cap (540) and/or the bottom cap (530) can be made of thermoplastic or stainless steel. In several embodiments, the top end and/or the bottom end of the straw (510) can be sealed so that the shot can be safely transported. In some embodiments, the bottom cap (530) further can include a seal element (e.g., a silicone stopper, not shown) configured to seal the bottom end of the straw (510) when the bottom cap (530) is closed. In a number of embodiments, the top cap (540) also can include a seal element (e.g., a silicone stopper, not shown) attached to the top portion (541) and configured to seal the top end of the straw (510) when the top cap (540) is closed.

[0055] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional view of two exemplary one-way valves (720 and 720'), according to an embodiment. The one-way valves (720 and 720’) are placed inside a straw (710), each cut into two symmetrical halves. The straw (710) can be similar or identical to the straw in any of the other embodiments described herein (e.g., the straw (110) (FIG. 1), (210) (FIG. 2), (310) (FIGs. 3-4), or (510) (FIGs. 5-6)). Each of the one-way valves (720 and/or 720') here is a cross-slit one-way valve. The one-way valves (720 and/or 720') can be made of any suitable materials (e.g., rubber or silicone) so that the one-way valves (720 and/or 720') can be inserted into the straw (710). Each of the one-way valves (720 and/or 720') is configured to allow fluid to flow through an opening formed in the central area with the slits (e.g., the slit (723 or 723')) only when a predetermined pressure is applied along a single direction pointed by the arrow (Z). Each of the one-way valves (720 and/or 720') can be used as or replace any of the top one-way valve and/or bottom one-way valve for a shot straw provided above (e.g., the one-way valve (120) (FIG. 1), the one-way valve (220) (FIG. 2), the bottom one-way valve (320) (FIGs. 3-4), the top one-way valve assembly (350) (FIGs. 3-4), the bottom one-way valve (520) (FIGs. 5-6), and/or the top one-way valve assembly (550) (FIGs. 5- 6)).

[0056] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 8 illustrates a one-way valve assembly (820), according to an embodiment. The one-way valve assembly (820) can include a cross-slit one-way valve (821) and a support (822) configured to hold the cross-slit one-way valve (821). The one- way valve assembly (820) can be used as or replace any of the top one-way valve and/or bottom one-way valve for a shot straw provided herein (e.g., the one-way valve (120) (FIG. 1) or (220) (FIG. 2), the bottom one-way valve (320) (FIGs. 3-4), the top one-way valve assembly (350) (FIGs. 3-4), the bottom one-way valve (520) (FIGs. 5-6), and/or the top one-way valve assembly (550) (FIGs. 5-6)). The cross-slit one-way valve (821) and the support (822) can be made of the same material or different materials. The cross-slit one-way valve (821) can be made of any suitable materials, such as a food-grade elastic silicone membrane. The support (822) also can be made of elastic materials, such as rubber, synthetic elastomer, silicone, etc. Further, the cross-slit one-way valve (821) can have four or more slits that divide the central area, evenly or unevenly, into 4 or more elastic flaps configured to open in a single direction (Z) when a pressure at or above a predetermined pressure level is applied from the single direction (Z) and close to prevent backflow when a pressure is below the predetermined pressure level or is applied at an opposite direction.

[0057] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 9 illustrates a cross sectional view of two exemplary duckbill one-way valves (920 and 920') of different dimensions, according to an embodiment. Each of the exemplary duckbill one-way valves (920 and 920') in FIG. 9 is cut into two symmetrical halves and has one of the two flat-ended flaps (923 or 923') shown. The exemplary duckbill one-way valves (920 and 920') are configured to open and close at the flat ends of the flat-ended flaps (923 and 923'). Depending on the dimension of the straw to be adopted, each of the exemplary duckbill one-way valves (920 or 920') can be used as or replace any of the top one-way valve and/or bottom one-way valve for a shot straw provided above (e.g., the one-way valve (120) (FIG. 1), the one-way valve (220) (FIG. 2), the bottom one-way valve (320) (FIGs. 3-4), the top one-way valve assembly (350) (FIGs. 3-4), the bottom one-way valve (520) (FIGs. 5-6), and/or the top one-way valve assembly (550) (FIGs. 5-6)).

[0058] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGs. 10-12 illustrates a shot straw (10), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (10) can include a straw (1010), a pintle assembly (1020), a bottom cap (1030), and a top cap (1040). The straw (1010) can be made of rigid clear plastic, thermoplastic, or any suitable materials. The pintle assembly (1020) comprises a pintle head (1021), a spring (1022), a lower valve (1023), a pintle shaft (1024), and an upper support (1025). The pintle head (1021) is configured to seal an outlet opening (1042) of the top cap (1040) and prevent the shot or any liquid in the straw (1010) from flowing out of the outlet opening (1042) when the pintle head (1021) is in a closed state. The spring (1022) can be configured to maintain a down pressure to keep the pintle assembly (1020) in its closed state. The spring (1022) can be implemented in any suitable structure and made of any suitable materials. For instance, the spring (1022) in FIGs. 10-12 can include multiple fingers made of flexible materials, such as shape- memory polymers (e.g., PET), and extending upward from the pintle shaft (1024) against the top cap (1040). In some embodiments, each of the entire pintle assembly (1020), the bottom cap (1030), and/or the top cap (1040) can be made of one or more of any suitable materials, including shape-memory polymers.

[0059] The bottom cap (1030) in FIGs. 10-12 can include a filler cap (1031), a strainer cap (1032), and an intake opening (1033). The filler cap (1031) and the strainer cap (1032) can be removably coupled so that the provider or user can fill or refill the shot straw by pouring the liquid through the strainer cap (1032) to remove unwanted solid materials, such as ice cubes, pulps, or clumps, etc. The filler cap (1031) further can be configured to close and seal the strainer cap (1032) by being snugly coupled to the strainer cap (1032). In some embodiments, the strainer cap (1032) can include a strainer and a wall supporting the strainer at the exterior edge of the strainer. The filler cap (1031) can include a base, an outer wall, an upper wall, a bottom wall, and an inner wall surrounding a filler cap opening. The bottom wall can be cone-shaped, expanding from the lower edge of the inner wall downward to the base. The filler cap opening surrounded by the inner wall of the filler cap (1031) and the opening in the middle of the strainer of the strainer cap (1032) can form the intake opening (1033) of the bottom cap (1030) and be configured to movably receive the lower valve (1023) and the pintle shaft (1024) of the pintle assembly (1020). In some embodiments, the pintle assembly (1020) also can include an upper support (1025) coupled to the top cap (1040) and configured to restrain any lateral movements of the pintle assembly (1020). [0060] Continuing with FIGs. 10-12, a user using the shot straw (10) can put the shot straw (10) into a container (e.g., a cup, glass, or bottle) with a drink and suck at the mouthpiece (1041) of the top cap (1040). The suction can cause a negative pressure at the top cap (1040), and when the negative pressure exceeds a certain limit, the pressure would pull the pintle assembly (1020) upward to form a fluidic pathway from the container, through the intake opening (1033) at the bottom cap (1030), the lower valve (1023), the inner space of the straw (1010), and the outlet opening (1042) of the top cap (1040). When the user stops sucking or does not provide enough suction pressure, the pressure of the spring (1022) against the top cap (1040) would bring the pintle assembly (1020) downward and back to its closed state, in which the intake opening (1033) is closed by the pintle shaft (1024), and the outlet opening (1042) is closed by the pintle head (1021).

[0061] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGs. 13-14 illustrate a shot straw (13), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (13) can include a straw (1310), a pintle assembly (1320), a bottom cap (1330), and a top cap (1340). The shot straw (13) can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw (10) in FIGs. 10-12, and the components of the shot straw (13) can be similar or substantially identical to the components of the shot straw (10) that are numbered similarly in FIGs. 10-12 (e.g., the straw (1310) can be substantially similar to the straw (1010) (FIGs. 10-12), the pintle assembly (1320) can be substantially similar to the pintle assembly (1020) (FIGs. 10- 12), etc.). The pintle assembly (1320) further can include a bushing at the lower end of the pintle assembly (1320).

[0062] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGs. 15-23 illustrates a shot straw (15), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (15) can include a straw (1510), a pintle assembly (1520), a bottom cap (1530), and a top cap (1540). The shot straw (15) can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw (10 or 13) in FIGs. 10-14, and the components of the shot straw (15) can be similar or substantially identical to the components of the shot straw (10 or 13) that are numbered similarly in FIGs. 10-14 (e.g., the straw (1510) can be substantially similar to the straw (1010 or 1310) (FIGs. 10-14), the pintle assembly (1520) can be substantially similar to the pintle assembly (1020 or 1320) (FIGs. 10-14), etc.). The pintle head (1521) can further include an O- ring. The top cap (1540) also can include an upper flow port (1541) configured to control the flow of the liquid flowing out of the straw (1510) when the pintle head (1521) is lifted up. The lower valve (1523), as shown in the bottom plan view of the shot straw (15) and/or the top plan view of the pintle assembly (1520) in FIGs. 15-23, can include 4 dividers arranged in a cross shape. The broken lines at the bottom of the lower valve (1523) shows the T pattern of the fluidic pathway of the liquid when the pintle assembly (1520) is in an open state.

[0063] As shown in FIGs. 15-23, the bottom cap (1530) can include a filler cap (1531) and a strainer cap (1532). The strainer cap (1532) can include multiple holes configured to allow liquid or solid materials of smaller sizes (e.g., an ice cube with a diameter less than 0.1 inch (0.254 cm)) to pass, and the holes can be arranged radially around the central opening of the strainer cap (1532). In addition to or in lieu of the bushing at the exterior surface of the pintle assembly (1520), the strainer cap (1532) further can include a bushing around its central opening.

[0064] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 24 shows a bottom perspective view of a shot straw (24), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (24) can include a straw (2410), a pintle assembly (2420), a bottom cap (2430), and a top cap (2440). The shot straw (24) can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw (10, 13, or 15) in FIGs. 10-23, and the components of the shot straw (24) can be similar or substantially identical to the components of the shot straw (10, 13, or 15) that are numbered similarly in FIGs. 10-23 (e.g., the straw (2410) can be substantially similar to the straw (1010, 1310, or 1510) (FIGs. 10-23), the bottom cap (2430) can be substantially similar to the bottom cap (1030, 1330, or 1530) (FIGs. 10-23), etc.). The lower valve (2423) of the pintle assembly (2420) can include a hollow space surrounded by a circular wall with multiple inlets. The lower valve (2423) can be configured to cause a flow of a liquid in an L or a T pattern into the inner space of the straw (2410) when the pintle assembly (2420) is in an open state, in which the lower valve (2423) moves into the inner space of the straw (2410). The bottom cap (2430) can include a filler cap (2431) and a strainer cap (2432).

[0065] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 25 shows a front plan view of a shot straw (25) when the shot straw (25) is coupled to a bottle (e.g., a 12-ounce (354.88-ml) beer bottle), according to an embodiment. The shot straw can include a straw (2510), a pintle assembly (not shown), a bottom cap (2530), and/or a top cap (2540). The shot straw (25) can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw (10, 13, 15, or 24) (FIGs. 10-24). Each of the components of the shot straw (25) can be similar or substantially identical to one or more corresponding components that are numbered similarly in FIGs. 10-24 (e.g., the straw (2510) can be substantially similar to the straw (1010) (FIGs. 10-12), the pintle assembly (not shown) can be substantially similar to the pintle assembly (1020) (FIGs. 10-12), the bottom cap (2530) can be substantially similar to the bottom cap (2430) (FIG. 24), the top cap (2540) can be substantially similar to the top cap (1040) (FIGs. 10-12), etc.).

[0066] In some embodiments, the shot straw (25) can be configured to be coupled to and/or seal the mouth of the bottle. For instance, the shot straw (25) as shown in FIG. 25 can be configured to be used as a one-way straw and plug for the bottle. In several embodiments, the bottom cap (2530) can include a circumference dimensioned to fit inside the opening of a bottle and also can be made of, entirely or partially, any suitable material (e.g., rubber, synthetic silicone, etc.) so that the shot straw (25) can form a seal when engaging with the bottle. In similar or different embodiments, the shot straw (25) can be configured to act as a one-way straw and cap for the bottle. For example, the bottom cap (2530) can include an inner lower edge portion that is dimensioned to fit outside the mouth of the bottle and/or includes a material (e.g., rubber, synthetic silicone, etc.) and/or structure (e.g., a rim or threads) configured to seal the opening of the bottle. When a user is using the shot straw (25) as in FIG. 25, the user can insert the shot straw (25) into the mouth of the bottle with beer, raise and tilt the bottle, and then suck from the top cap (2540) to drink the shot and/or the beer.

[0067] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGs. 26-28 illustrate a shot straw (26), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (26) can include a straw (2610), a bottom cap (2630), and a top cap (2640). The shot straw (26), and/or its components (e.g., the straw (2610), the bottom cap (2630), and/or the top cap (2640)), each can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw and/or apparatus, and/or their corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments herein (e.g., the shot straw (1-3) (FIGs. 1-4)). The straw (2610) can be made of any suitable material, such as rigid clear plastic or thermoplastic. The bottom cap (2630) can include a one-way valve (2631) and a valve holder (2632) configured to hold the valve (2631) and couple the bottom cap (2630) to the bottom end of the straw (2610). The one-way valve (2631) can be any suitable valve configured to allow liquid to enter the straw (2610) through the valve (2631), while preventing liquid inside the straw (2610) from exiting the straw (2610) through the valve (2631). The one way valve (2631) can be a tension valve (e.g., a cross-slit valve), a duckbill valve, or a spring valve, etc. The valve holder (2632) can be coupled to the straw (2610) in any suitable manner, such as being screwed in the straw (2610) or engaging with the straw (2610) via threads. The top cap (2640) can be any suitable cap, such as a quarter-turn twist cap or a hinged flip cap with a top portion (2641) hingedly coupled to a bottom portion (2642) attached to the top end of the straw (2610). The top cap (2640) can be coupled to the straw (2610) in any suitable way, e.g., by screwing in or on the straw (2610).

[0068] In some embodiments, the shot straw (26) can be pre-filled, filled, or re-filled with any suitable shot, such as alcohol or a beverage, from the top end of the straw (2610) when the top cap (2640) is open (see, e.g., FIG. 28). To use the shot straw (26), the shot straw (26) with a shot can be placed into a container (e.g., a glass or cup) filled with a drink, with the bottom portion of the straw (2610) entering the container first. When the top cap (2640) is open, a user can suck from the bottom portion (2642) of the top cap (2640) so that the drink would be drawn into the straw (2610), through the one-way valve (2621), flow upward with the shot, and finally pass through the opening at the bottom portion (2642) of the top cap (2640) into the user's mouth.

[0069] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGs. 29-30 illustrate a shot straw (29), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (29) can include a straw (2910), a bottom cap (2930), and a top cap (2940). The shot straw (29), and/or its components, each can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw and/or apparatus, and/or their corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments herein (e.g., the shot straw (1-3) (FIGs. 1-4), (5) (FIGs. 5-6), or (26) (FIGs. 26-28)). The straw (2910) can be made of any suitable material, such as rigid clear plastic or thermoplastic. The bottom cap (2930) can include: (a) a one-way valve (2931) configured to allow liquid to enter the straw (2910) through, but not exiting the straw (2910) from, the valve (2931); (b) a valve holder (2932) configured to hold the valve (2931) and couple the bottom cap (2930) to the bottom end of the straw (2910); and/or (c) a lid (2933) configured to further close up or seal the opening(s) of the one-way valve (2931) and/or the valve holder (2932). The one-way valve (2931) can be any suitable valve, such as a tension valve. The valve holder (2932) can engage with the straw (2910) via threads. Further, the top cap (2940) can be any suitable cap, such as a quarter-turn twist cap with a nozzle cover (2941) and a nozzle (2942). The nozzle cover (2941) can be configured to be twisted to close or open the nozzle (2942). The top cap (2940) can be screwed on or threaded to the straw (2910).

[0070] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGs. 31-36 illustrate a shot straw (31), according to an embodiment. The shot straw (31) can include a straw (3110), a bottom cap (3130), and atop cap (3140). The shot straw (31), and/or its components, each can be similar or substantially identical to the shot straw and/or apparatus, and/or their corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments herein (e.g., the shot straw (1-3) (FIGs. 1-4), (5) (FIGs. 5-6), (26) (FIGs. 26-28), or (29) (FIGs. 29-30)). The bottom cap (3130) can include: (a) a one-way valve (3131) configured to allow liquid to enter the straw (3110) through, but not exiting the straw (3110) from, the valve (3131); (b) a valve holder (3132) configured to hold the valve (3131) and couple the bottom cap (3130) to the bottom end of the straw (3110); and/or (c) a lid (3133) configured to further close up or seal the opening(s) of the one-way valve (3131) and/or the valve holder (3132).

[0071] In a number of embodiments, the one-way valve (3131) can include any suitable valve, such as a tension valve. The valve holder (3132) can engage with the straw (3110) via threads. The valve holder (3132) further can include a strainer (3134) with multiple holes configured to allow liquid or solid materials of smaller sizes (e.g., an ice cube with a diameter less than 0.1 inch (0.254 cm)) to pass through. The lid (3133) can be made of any suitable materials, such as flexible materials (e.g., silicone, resin, etc.). Further, the top cap (3140) can be any suitable cap, such as a quarter-turn twist cap with a nozzle cover (see, the top cap (3140) (FIG. 29)) that can be twisted to close (see, FIG. 33) or open (see, FIG. 34). The top cap (3140) can be screwed on or threaded to the straw (3110).

[0072] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIGs. 37-56 -illustrate additional exemplary one-way valves, according to various embodiments. The one-way valves (37-56) each can be used at the top cap and/or bottom cap of a shot straw (e.g., the shot straw (1-3) (FIGs. 1-4), (5), (FIGs. 5-6), (26) (FIGs. 26-28), (29) (FIGs. 29-30), or (31) (FIGs.31-36)). Specifically, FIGs. 37-38 shows a bottom perspective view and a cross-sectional view of a spring valve (37), FIGs. -39-48 show various tension valves (39, 40, 42, and 45), and FIGs. 49-56 show various duckbill valves (49, 52- 54, and 56). An exemplary spring valve (e.g., the spring valve (37) (FIGs. 37-38)) can include a spring to keep the valve shut by default and allow a suction pressure exceeding a predetermined pressure limit to force the valve to open against the spring-loading.

[0073] Further, in various embodiments, an exemplary tension valve (e.g., the tension valve (39, 40, 42, or 45) (FIGs. 39-48)) can be implemented in any suitable ways. In some embodiments, a tension valve can include one or more slits on a curving thin film or plate made of any suitable elastomers (e.g., rubber or silicone) and be configured to open or close the slit(s) in a single direction depending on the extent of deformation that the pressure causes on the curving film or plate (see, e.g., the x-slit one-way valve (220) (FIG. 2), (350) (FIGS. 3-4), (820) (FIG. 8), (2631) (FIGs. 26-28), (2931) (FIGs. 29-30), (3131) (FIGs. 31-36) or (39) (FIG. 39)). In similar or different embodiments, a tension valve can include a sealing plug made of any suitable elastomers (e.g., rubber or silicone) (e.g., the tension valve 4210 (FIGs. 42-44), or 4510 (FIGs. 45-48)), and a base (e.g., the base 4220 (FIGs. 42-44) or 4520 (FIGs. 45-48) configured to couple the tension valve with the straw of a shot straw (e.g., the shot straw (1-3) (FIGs. 1-4), (5) (FIGs. 5-6), (26) (FIGs. 26-28), (29) (FIGs. 29-30), or (31) (FIGs. 31-36)). The sealing plug can be configured to be engage with the base and seal one or more holes (e.g., the holes of the strainer (3134) (FIG. 36) or the holes 4521 (FIG. 45)) in the base. When the exemplary tension valve is used as the bottom cap of a shot straw, and a suction force comes from the top end of the shot straw, the sealing plug can be deformed to the extent that the sealing plug can no longer seal the one or more holes and the liquid in a cup that the shot straw is placed in can be flow through the one or more holes into the shot straw. Once the suction force is lower than a predetermined threshold, the sealing plug can return to its original shape and dimension, and the holes are then sealed again.

[0074] In a number of embodiments, a duckbill one-way valve (e.g., the duckbill valve (920 and/or 920') (FIG. 9), or (49, 52-54, or 56) (FIGs. -49-56)) can be used at the top cap or bottom cap of a shot straw (e.g., the shot straw (1-3) (FIGs. 1-4), (5) (FIGs. 5-6), (26) (FIGs. 26-28), (29) (FIGs. 29-30), or (31) (FIGs. -31-36)). An exemplary one-way valve can include two or more flat-ended flaps (see, e.g., the flat-end flap (923 and/or 923') (FIG. 9) or (4910 and/or 4920) (FIGs. 49-51)), and can be configured to open and close at the flat ends of the flat-ended flaps in response to a suction force applied. In several embodiments, the one-way valve(s) used in a shot straw can be properly configured in terms of quantity, type, dimension, material, and/or shape, etc. so that the shot straw is easy to use while the shot (e.g., an alcoholic shot or a wellness shot) does not leak from the straw. For example, a shot straw with a single one-way valve at the bottom cap can be easier to use than another shot straw with a similar one-way valve at the bottom cap and another similar one-way valve at the top cap because the suction force required to use the one-way valves at the top cap and the bottom cap can be greater than that for the single one-way valve. In another example, a shot straw with an x-slit one-way valve can be easier to use compared to another shot straw including a tension valve with a rubber seal plug, while the latter can work better in terms of leak proof.

[0075] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 57 illustrates a flow chart of a method (5700) for providing an apparatus, according to an embodiment. The method (5700) is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. The method (5700) can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of the method (5700) can be performed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of the method (5700) can be performed in any suitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of the method (5700) can be combined or skipped. [0076] The apparatus, and/or its components, provided by the method (5700) each can be similar or substantially identical to the apparatus and/or shot straw, and/or their corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments described herein (e.g., the shot straw (1-3) (FIGs. 1-4), (5) (FIGs. 5-6), (26) (FIGs. 26-28), (29) (FIGs. 29-30), or (31) (FIGs. -31-36)). The apparatus, and/or its components, each further can include any suitable dimensions, volumes, and/or materials. The apparatus can include a height of the straw is approximately 9 inches (22.86 cm), an outer diameter of the straw body is approximately ¼ inch (0.635 cm) to ¾ inch (1.905 cm), and/or a volume of the straw body is approximately 1 fluid ounce (29.57 ml) to 3 fluid ounces (88.72 ml), etc.

[0077] In many embodiments, the method (5700) can include an activity (5710) for providing a straw for the apparatus. The apparatus provided by the method (5700) can include the straw (e.g., the straw (110) (FIG. 1), (210) (FIG. 2), (310) (FIGs. 3-4), (510) (FIGs. 5-6), (2910) (FIGs. 29-30), or (3110) (FIGs. -31-36)) and a one-way valve (e.g., the one-way valve (37, 39-40, 42, 45, 49, 52-54, or 56) (FIGs. -37-56), etc.). The straw can include a straw body. The straw body further can include clear plastic, thermoplastic, and/or any of other suitable materials. In certain embodiments, an exterior surface of the straw body can include branding or other promotional information (e.g., the label (111) (FIG. 1), or (211) (FIG. 2), etc.) and/or aesthetic designs. The one-way valve can include one of: a cross-slit valve, a duckbill valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, or any other suitable one-way valves.

[0078] In a number of embodiments, the apparatus further can include one or more of: (a) a top cap (e.g., the top cap (340) (FIGS. 3-4), (540) (FIGs. 5-6), (2640) (FIGs. 26-28), (2940) (FIGs. 29-30), or (3140) (FIGs. 31-36), etc.), (b) a bottom cap (e.g., the bottom cap (130) (FIG. 1), (230) (FIG. 2), (330) (FIGs. 3-4), (540) (FIGs. 5-6), (2630) (FIGs. 26-28), (2930) (FIGs. 29-30), or (3130) (FIGs. 31-36), etc.) and/or (c) a removable film. The top cap can include one of: athreaded lid, a shooter lid, a hinged flip cap, a twist cap, a squeeze lid, or any other suitable caps. The bottom cap can include one of: a quarter-turn threaded cap, an end cap, or any other suitable caps. [0079] In some embodiments, the method (5700) further can include an activity (5720) for coupling the one-way valve at a bottom end of the straw. The bottom end of the straw can be configured to be placed in a container. The one-way valve can be configured to allow liquid in the container to enter the straw when a suction force is created at a top end of the straw, the top end opposite the bottom end of the straw.

[0080] In several embodiments, the method (5700) further can include an activity (5730) for removably coupling the top cap to the top end of the straw. The top cap further can include a top one-way valve (e.g., the top one-way valve assembly (350) (FIGs. 3-4) or (550) (FIGs. 5-6)) configured to allow a second liquid (e.g., an alcohol shot) in the straw to exit the straw from the top end when the suction force is created at the top end of the straw. The top one-way valve can include one of: a cross-slit valve, a duckbill valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, or any other suitable one-way valve.

[0081] In a number of embodiments, the method (5700) further can include an activity (5740) for removably coupling the bottom cap to the one-way valve to seal the one-way valve. The bottom cap can be configured to seal the one-way valve by any suitable components, e.g., a lid (e.g., the lid (2933) (FIGs. 29-30) or (3133) (FIGs. 31-36)). The method (5700) also can include an activity (5750) for sealing the top end of the straw by the removable film. The method (5700) additionally can include an activity (5760) for filling the second liquid into the straw body.

[0082] Turning ahead in the drawings, FIG. 58 illustrates a flow chart of a method (5800) for using an apparatus, according to an embodiment. The method (5800) is merely exemplary and is not limited to the embodiments presented herein. The method (5800) can be employed in many different embodiments or examples not specifically depicted or described herein. In some embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of the method (5800) can be performed in the order presented. In other embodiments, the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of the method (5800) can be performed in any suitable order. In still other embodiments, one or more of the procedures, the processes, and/or the activities of the method (5800) can be combined or skipped.

[0083] In many embodiments, the method (5800) can include an activity (5810) for placing an apparatus into a container, with a bottom end of the apparatus submerged in a first liquid in the container. The apparatus, and/or its components, used by the method (5810) each can be similar or substantially identical to the apparatus or shot straw, and/or its corresponding components, in any of the other embodiments described herein (e.g., the shot straw (1-3) (FIGs. 1-4), (5) (FIGs. 5-6), (26) (FIGs. 26-28), (29) (FIGs. 29-30), or (31) (FIGs. 31-36)). The apparatus, and/or its components, each further can include any suitable dimensions, volumes, and/or materials. The apparatus can include a height of the straw is approximately 9 inches (22.86 cm), an outer diameter of the straw body is approximately ¼ inch (0.635 cm) to ¾ inch (1.905 cm), and/or a volume of the straw body is approximately 1 fluid ounce (29.57 ml) to 3 fluid ounces (88.72 ml), etc.

[0084] The apparatus provided by the method (5800) can include the straw (e.g., the straw (110) (FIG. 1), (210) (FIG. 2), (310) (FIGs. 3-4), (510) (FIGs. 5-6), (2910) (FIGs. 29-30), or (3110) (FIGs. 31-36)) and a one-way valve (e.g., the one-way valve (37, 39-40, 42, 45, 49, 52-54, or 56) (FIGs. 37-56)). The straw can include a top end, a straw body, and a bottom end opposite the top end. The bottom end of the straw can be included in the bottom end of the apparatus. The straw body further can include clear plastic, thermoplastic, and/or any of other suitable materials. In certain embodiments, an exterior surface of the straw body can include branding or other promotional information (e.g., the label (111) (FIG. 1) or (211) (FIG. 2)). The one-way valve can be removably coupled to the botom end of the straw. The one-way valve can include one of: a cross-slit valve, a duckbill valve, a spring valve, a tension valve, or any other suitable one-way valves.

[0085] The method (5800) further can include an activity (5820) for drinking the first liquid and a second liquid in the straw from the apparatus by sucking at the top end of the straw. The second liquid can be filled into the straw from the top end or the botom end. In a number of embodiments, the apparatus further can include a top cap (e.g., the top cap (340) (FIGs. 3-4), (540) (FIGs. 5-6), (2640) (FIGs. 26-28), (2940) (FIGs. 29-30), or (3140) (FIGs. 31-36)) removably coupled to the top end of the straw, and allowing the user to drink from the apparatus in the activity (5820) further can include opening the top cap. The top cap can include one of: a threaded lid, a shooter lid, a hinged flip cap, a twist cap, a squeeze lid, or any other suitable caps. In certain embodiments, the top cap further can include a top one-way valve (e.g., the top one-way valve assembly (350) (FIGs. 3-4) or (550) (FIGs. 5-6)) configured to allow the second liquid in the straw to exit the straw from the top end when a suction force is created at the top end of the straw. [0086] In some embodiments, the apparatus further can include a botom cap (e.g., the bottom cap (130) (FIG. 1), (230) (FIG. 2), (330) (FIGs. 3-4), (540) (FIGs. 5-6), (1430) (FIGs. 14-16), (1730) (FIGs. 17-18), or (1930) (FIGs. 19-24)). The botom cap can be removably coupled to the one-way valve and configured to seal the one-way valve, and allowing the user to drink from the apparatus further can include opening the botom cap. The botom cap can include one of: a quarter-turn threaded cap, an end cap, or any other suitable caps. The bottom cap further can be configured to seal the one-way valve by any suitable components, e.g., a lid (e.g., the lid (2933) (FIGs. 29-30) or (3133) (FIGs. 31-36)). In a few embodiments, the apparatus further can include a film configured to removably seal the top end of the straw, and allowing the user to drink from the apparatus further comprises removing the film.

[0087] Although the apparatus and/ or shot straw have been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. For example, the straw of an apparatus or a shot straw can be of any suitable shapes, materials, volumes, and/or dimensions. The one way valve of another exemplary apparatus or shot straw can be any suitable check valve for liquid. The pintle assembly can be replaced by any suitable components that can form a seal at the intake opening and a seal at the outlet opening in the closed state while unseal the intake opening and the outlet opening when a suction pressure exceeding a predetermined pressure limit is applied from the top end of the shot straw. An apparatus or a shot straw can be sold empty or pre-filled with alcohol, energy drink, a wellness shot, a liquid food supplement, etc. The apparatus or shot straw can be single-use or reusable. One or more components of a reusable apparatus or shot straw (e.g., the straw, the bottom cap, the one-way valve, the top cap, etc.) can be dishwasher safe. Further, the bottom cap of an apparatus or a shot straw further can include a lid or seal of any suitable materials (e.g., rubber or silicone) to close up or seal the opening(s) at the one-way valve or the lower end of bottom cap to prevent leaking. Accordingly, the disclosure of embodiments is intended to be illustrative of the scope of the disclosure and is not intended to be limiting. It is intended that the scope of the disclosure shall be limited only to the extent required by the appended claims.

[0088] Replacement of one or more claimed elements constitutes reconstruction and not repair. Additionally, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described with regard to specific embodiments. The benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any element or elements that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced, however, are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of any or all of the claims, unless such benefits, advantages, solutions, or elements are stated in such claim.

[0089] Moreover, embodiments and limitations disclosed herein are not dedicated to the public under the doctrine of dedication if the embodiments and/or limitations: (1) are not expressly claimed in the claims; and (2) are or are potentially equivalents of express elements and/or limitations in the claims under the doctrine of equivalents.